Check out their website here: http://www.seewhatiam.com

If you’re the lucky winner, you can choose either of the two shirts featured below, or any other shirt on their website if you prefer. I will take entries until 2/4/12 at midnight, then let random.org pick my winner.

Complete a task, leave a comment, earn an entry. Easy as that!
Do them all and get 6 entries today!

1. Visit the i Am Brand website and comment below which shirt is your favorite.
2. Like i Am on Facebook.
3. Follow i Am on Twitter.
4. Like Run Bulldog Run on Facebook.
5. Connect with Run Bulldog Run on Google+.
6. Bonus entry available until 1/30/12 – vote for me in the Zensah “Fan Photo of the Month” contest here.

Note: Retweets on Twitter and Shares on Facebook are always appreciated, but not required for the contest.

Please leave a comment below to let me know which tasks you’ve completed. You can do just one, or all six – it’s completely up to you. Naturally, the more tasks you do, the more chances you have of winning. Good luck!

If you’re not into the social media scene you can still get your hands on one of the i Am Brand shirts for a great price. Use coupon code BULLDOG in your shopping cart to receive 20% off. i Am Brand offer FREE Shipping and Returns on all orders too!

The product I received from Sports Compression was a Classic Design Running Compression Sock – color white/orange, size III, which is suitable for calf sizes 12.5″ through 15″. Before I get into the review, here’s a little background info on the company behind the socks, and some techie info about the product too:

CEP Compression Company – Information & History
Company information: CEP Compression is made by Medi-USA, a world-leading manufacturer of medical compression products. The birth of compression in the medical field is now being translated into every CEP product. By providing the athlete with improved circulation, muscle response and regeneration of lactic acid in the blood stream you can peak performance of any athlete. Whatever your sport may be you can take advantage of CEP Compression.

The CEP socks are the first compression sock I’ve ever owned. As stated above, I’m used to wearing compression calf sleeves from various companies – Zensah, Tommy Copper, Skins and Saucony, for example – all of which are very easy to slide on/slide off. The compression socks were much more of a challenge until I watched the video below. For me, the natural thing to do was roll up the sock before putting it on – this caused compression over compression and made it almost impossible to get my foot into the sock opening. Hopefully, the video will help you find the right technique so you don’t struggle too much.

Once the sock was on, it felt VERY comfortable, although the size III is just a little bit long on my lower leg. Not sure if there’s a solution to this, as CEP recommend NOT to fold the excess material down as it will create a tourniquet effect below the knee…. The socks are labelled “left” and “right” for a great blister-free fit, and there’s enough padding on the foot sole to prevent hot spots. The remainder of the sock “grips” the achilles, calf and shin for a really snug fit.

I’ve completed several training runs (no races at this point in time) of various distances in the socks with good results. However, whether compression technology actually increases performance on these training runs is up for debate. A quick search online throws up a whole host of articles – some massively in favor, and some very much against the current compression trend.

Personally, I’d like to think that compression sleeves/socks help improve circulation and regeneration of lactic acid, and keep fatigue at bay when the going gets tough. I’m also a big fan of compression after a tough workout/race, and can’t think of a reason not to slide on a pair of socks/sleeves to aid recovery.

The CEP Running Socks launder well at 40°C, and although low-temperature tumble drying is allowed, I prefer to let mine dry naturally. The socks also come with a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee if you’re not entirely satisfied with the product.

As part of my agreement to carry out a blog review, Sports Compression are pleased to offer a 15% OFF coupon code for use at their web site. Just head over to www.sportscompression.com and use coupon code BLOG15 on check out. Not only will you receive 15% off your order, shipping will be FREE too. Enjoy!

Like Sports Compression on Facebook.
Follow Sports Compression on Twitter.

My favorite running sock for the past 4 or 5 years has been the excellent Balega Hidden Comfort – a fairly basic cushioned sock with hand-linked seamless toes and mesh construction for added ventilation.
The local running store, Running Etc., originally clued me in on Balegas, and they’ve been the first sock I grab when I head out for a run/race ever since.
Favorite color is black as the white tends to get dirty very quickly. The Hidden Comfort pairs well with the Saucony Kinvara and Inov8 trail shoes.

Features:
Hand-linked seamless toe for seamfree comfort
Specially constructed mesh ventilation panel to keep your feet cool and dry
High tab heel ensures that your sock stays in place, providing for a comfortable fit
Extra-deep heel pocket
Cushioning for impact resistance

Available in sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large
Available in colors: White, Black
Typical price: $10.99

I’m also a big fan of the Balega Hidden Dry which is easily described as a thinner version of the Hidden Comfort. Balega simply describe the Hidden Dry as the “race day” sock – it’s thin, breathable & fast, and perfect for those days when you don’t want too much cushioning. I tend to wear the Hidden Dry with my Saucony Grid Type A4s and various racing flats.

Features:
Hand-linked seamless toe for seamfree comfort
Mesh construction for added ventilation
Extra-deep heel pocket

Available in sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large
Available in colors: White, Black
Typical price: $8.49

[Disclaimer: the following socks were provided free of charge for the purpose of a blog review.]

A short time ago I was approached by 3tailer who asked if I’d be interested in reviewing a couple of pairs of their running socks. Always keen to try something new, I quickly replied “Yes” and sent off my shoe size and current likes/dislikes in a sock. A week or so later a package arrived containing the Wrightsock SLT no-show tab sock, Drymax Running no-show sock and Drymax Running Lite-Mesh no-show sock.

First up for testing were the Wrightsock SLT worn in conjunction with the Saucony Grid Type A4.

Manufacturer’s description:
The Wrightsock SLT 182 No Show with Tab Socks are an ultra-lightweight, single layer sock for walking and running activities. Wrightsock’s WrightOnes system reduces irritation between your toes and shoes, while the Y Heel promotes an anatomically correct fit for added comfort. The Dri-WRIGHT II system wicks moisture away from your feet, keeping them dry and comfortable. The Stabilizer Zone helps lock the sock in place, further reducing blisters. The SLT is the most lightweight sock in the WrightOnes line, and ideal for performance driven activities.

Available in sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large
Available in colors: White
Typical price: $9.00

My thoughts:
Similar in thickness to the Balega Hidden Dry, but definitely a much nicer fit thanks to the innovative “Stabilizer Zone”. The heel tab kept the sock from slipping and the no-show style lived up to it’s name nicely. Great lightweight, performance sock and at $7.99 a pair, not a bad price too.

Next up were the Drymax Running No Show Socks – too thick to wear with the A4, so I took them for a spin with the Saucony Kinvara and Inov8 X-Talon 190 instead.

Manufacturer’s description:
The Drymax Running No Show socks contain a dual-layer moisture removal system that stays dry by moving sweat out and away from your feet. When you sweat, water is repelled by the inner hydrophobic layer to the outer hydrophilic Drymax layer, keeping your feet dry and comfortable. Other running socks rely on moisture-wicking fibers that use the slow process of evaporation. Drymax socks dry at the same speed as you sweat, keeping you on the road longer. Designed for cool to warm-weather days, Drymax Running socks contain Drymax Medium Density padding in the heel and toe to provide added cushioning without adding unnecessary volume in your shoes. Made in the USA.

Available in sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large
Available in colors: White
Typical price: $12.99

My thoughts:
Sorry, Drymax, not really a fan of these – way too thick and bulky for my liking, and quite stiff for a sock if that makes sense. The padding in the heel felt good, but to be honest, the sock didn’t really fit well on any other part of my foot. The sock test lasted five miles, and although I didn’t suffer any blisters, it was a relief to get home. The lack of tab was an issue too, as a few times I had to reach down to “pull up” the sock which was slipping down into the shoe. Note: I think Drymax make a tabbed version which would alleviate the problem.

Since the initial test before Christmas, I’ve worn this particular sock a few more times – once on the local trails, and a couple of times on the road. The bulky feeling is still there, and I’m afraid to say the Drymax Running No Show is just too much sock for my liking.

Lastly, I tried out the Drymax Running Lite-Mesh no-show sock, which turned out to be a much more pleasant experience than the thicker Drymax offering.

Manufacturer’s description:
The Drymax Sport Lite-Mesh No Show socks are perfect for the person who doesn’t want to wear sport-specific socks, but wants a sock that works for all sports and shoes. Drymax Sport Lite-Mesh No Show socks contain a dual-layer moisture removal system that stays dry by moving sweat out and away from your feet. When you sweat, water is repelled by the inner hydrophobic layer to the outer hydrophilic Drymax layer, keeping your feet dry and comfortable. Other athletic socks rely on moisture-wicking fibers that use the slow process of evaporation. Drymax socks dry at the same speed as you sweat, keeping you on the court, floor, or field for longer. Designed for mild to hot-weather days, the Drymax Lite-Mesh Sport Socks use Low Density protective padding around the heel and toe to provide cushioning without adding too much volume in your shoes. Made in the USA.

Drymax Sport Lite-Mesh socks differ from Drymax Sport socks – they contain a unique top and bottom mesh air vent system designed to work with breathable shoes to keep feet cooler.

Available in sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large
Available in colors: White
Typical price: $10.99

My thoughts:
My first run in the Lite-Mesh was a good one – a brisk 6 miler wearing Saucony Grid Type A4s. The sock gripped my foot in all the right places and was cushioned enough without feeling bulky. The gray Y Heel felt great, and the top-side breathable mesh kept my feet cool. I initially thought the lack of heel tab could be an issue, but the sock stayed put for 6 miles and showed no signs of slipping. Good stuff!

Manufacturer links:

• Balega
• Drymax
• Wrightsock

Leg 3 – 3.1 miles easy: pretty much a straight shot west along 56th Street to the exchange point at Tropical Park.
Leg 4 – 5.2 miles moderate: after leaving Tropical Park it was just a few miles north on 82nd, followed by just over 3 miles west on 24th Street to Tamiami Park.

Pace was good on my opening double-header. Probably started a little quick in the early miles, but soon managed to settle in to a nice groove. Think I passed the Walmart where we loaded up on groceries the night before the race, but to be honest I was more concerned with dodging traffic on the many street crossings. Nice to get the first legs out of the way and start thinking about the 20 mile night leg through the Everglades.

8:32 miles / 53:00 minutes / 6:20/mile pace

Leg 15 – 8.2 miles very hard: have to be honest, I was kind of nervous about this leg – just over 8 miles on the Southern Glades Canal Trail, with not only rocky/uneven footing to contend with, but a real threat of alligators in the canal to the right of the trail. So much so, that Joe M and I both had to sign an additional safety waiver for his Leg 14 and my Leg 15.

Leg 16 – 11.8 miles very hard: not so worried about this one, but at almost 12 miles long I figured it could be more of a mental challenge than a physical one.

Leg 15 started off in a bit of a hurry, with the van *just* making it to the exchange point before Runner #1 arrived for the handoff. I literally hopped out of the van with seconds to spare as Joe slapped on the bracelet to send me on my way. With 20 miles ahead of me I decided a quick stop at the exchange point port-a-john would be a good idea – better to waste 30 seconds now, than have to stop on the trail or the road to Key Largo.

The Ragnar advice to “use extra caution with footing and be aware of the change in terrain” was spot on. The trail would have been challenging enough during the day, but in the 10:45pm darkness it was even more treacherous. Thankfully my L.L.Bean Trailblazer headlamp lit up the road ahead of me, and I was able to maintain 6:30/mile pace for pretty much the whole of the 8.2 mile leg. It was kind of eery, but cool, running along the trail with vans kicking up rocks and dust and the thought of gators lurking on the edge of the canal. Thankfully chasing down the numerous red flashing lights of the runners ahead kept me occupied and I rolled into exchange 16 with not one single wildlife sighting.

Exchange 16 was pretty noisy and bright with vehicle headlights. I vaguely remember picking up a handheld bottle of fluids from the team before making my way to Route 1 and the Overseas Highway. This 11.8 mile leg is pretty much a blur to be honest. I must have slipped into auto-pilot mode and just kept ticking off the miles as I made my way to Key Largo. In hindsight, I probably expended too much energy on the canal trail, but somehow I still managed to maintain 6:40-6:50s for the remainder of the leg. Seeing the “1 Mile To Go” was a huge boost, and the feeling it would soon be time to refuel and change into some dry clothes was a great one. Just after the handoff to Thomas, van driver John pounced with his trusty video camera and I guess I forgot to stop the Garmin. Ah, well. Can’t wait to see what he captured on film, as I think I was quite delirious at this stage in the game.

20:00 miles / 2:15:00 minutes / 6:45/mile pace

Leg 27 – 9.3 miles very hard: pretty much a straight shot west on the Overseas Highway with partial no-van support.
Leg 28 – 4.1 miles moderate: more westerly running, hopping over Big Pine Key to Summerland Key on US-1.

I was really expecting my legs to feel trashed after the previous 28+ miles, but somehow they responded well and I was able to get into a decent groove right away. Actually, the trickiest part of the 9.3 mile leg was unpinning the bib from my singlet (whilst running) and re-pinning it on my shorts. With crazy heat to contend with I’m not sure why I went with the singlet, and despite moleskinning up, the dreaded nip-chafing began in the first couple of miles. The only option was strip off and dump it, along with my glasses and handheld, at the next exchange point. Sorry, Joe!

Thomas was a lifesaver with a couple of much-needed water bottle handoffs on my final leg. Timing was impeccable, and the instant relief of pouring water over my head was amazing. My Garmin finally died with about 1.5 miles to go, making it probably the longest run in to an exchange point of the whole race. I think the leg turned out a little long, but in the big picture it doesn’t matter one little bit.

13:5 miles / 1:30:00 minutes / 6:40/mile pace

I think I’m correct in saying that the Where’s the Damn Van? finish time was 27 Hours, 1 minute & 50 seconds – 8th place among the Men’s Ultra Teams, and 31st place overall out of more than 500 entries. Not a bad result at all!

Special thanks to van driver John for getting us where we needed to be with no hassles whatsoever – great guy with a great attitude and wicked multi-tasking skills. Congrats also to my wife Ally for a great Ragnar Relay debut and to the other Damn Van team members Thomas N, Sean B, Jenny J and Joe M.

Final shout-out goes to Zensah for keeping the team calves compressed and ready-to-run with their wonderful leg sleeves, L.L.Bean for lighting the way at night with their excellent Trailblazer headlamps, and Mission Athletecare for protecting our skin from the brutal, but beautiful, Florida sun.

Further reading:
Ragnar Florida Keys recap by Sean Brown
Race Report – Florida Ragnar Keys by Joe Marruchella

Wonder what 2012 has in store?

We started at the picnic shelter nearest the Shore Drive entrance to FLSP and made our way towards the main Cape Henry trail where we took a sharp right turn. At Kingfisher we made another right, then turned onto Long Creek, Fox Run and Bald Cypress before reaching the main trail and the home stretch back to the finish area.

Wasn’t sure what pace to shoot for on the mixed terrain, so just went for it from the gun which seemed to be an okay strategy. I soon found myself running alongside fellow Shamrock Sportsfest World Record Attempt teammates Drew Midland and Joel Bell, but knew Drew would likely take off and leave us in his wake. Sure enough, as we hit the main Cape Henry trail, Drew sped up and was gone. I chatted to Joel for a short time, but soon found myself alone in 2nd place as we made the right turn on Kingfisher.

[First mile - Drew Midland, me, Joel Bell. We finished the race in the same order.]

The rest of the race was pretty much a solo effort. The sand on Long Creek slowed me down a little bit, which convinced me that Joel would soon make the catch and pass. It never happened though, and I ended up taking 2nd place in a fraction over 30 minutes, and at least a minute in front of the 3rd place guy Joel.

Post-race was fun hanging out with several good runner-friends. Hot Brunswick Stew and chili really hit the spot, and the hot chocolate made a great change from the usual water/weak Gatorade found at most of the smaller races.

Good fun, and a much needed blow out for the lungs and legs!

Sunday – most people wouldn’t call me a lazy runner, but if truth be told, my long runs of late have been more of a get-through-the-miles than a get-something-out-of-this-workout type of run. With just two weeks to go to the Cayman Islands Marathon I decided it was time to suffer a little and “nail a good one.” I set out at around 7:30am with my Garmin locked on a 7:00 minute/mile virtual pace and loaded up with a nuun-filled handheld, gel and some spare cash.

Considering we’re almost at the end of November, the weather was fantastic – singlet and shorts weather in fact. It was one of those runs that felt “right” from the very first mile. My GPS soon chirped to let me know I was ahead of goal pace, and from that moment on I never looked back. Mile 1 – 6:50. I quickly decided to turn this long run into an on & off workout – one mile comfortable, followed by one mile hard, repeated ten times. I’ve had success with this type of workout before, so figured it was worth a shot. Mile 2 – 6:33.

Mile 3 was another “off” mile, but I found it hard to slow to goal pace – 6:42. Mile 4 was a good one as I had a youngish couple on mountain bikes in the distance that I could chase down. The 6:15 mile put a smile on my face as it really felt effortless.

The rest of the run continued in the same vein, and I soon found myself approaching Rudee Inlet and the halfway mark of the run – 6:42 & 6:05, 6:33 & 6:09, 6:33 & 6:04. Time to hit the boardwalk….

I expected a stiff headwind heading north, but was treated to a cooling cross wind instead. 6:29 was the next “off” mile, followed by my fastest “on” mile of the morning – 5:59. A 6:32 & 6:03 carried me to the First Landing State Park entrance, where I was tempted to stop for a water fill up before setting off on the remaining five miles. I decided not to stop and pushed on to the finish instead.

The trail naturally slowed me down a little. I felt like I was still putting out the same effort level, but the mile splits tell a different story – 6:40 & 6:17, 6:35 & 6:19. Finally I was off the trail and back onto solid ground where I told myself to relax and enjoy the final couple of miles back to the car. I eased off a lot for a 6:50 19th mile, but had a second wind at the end and finished with a 6:11 mile.

Rarely have I had such a positive long run – 20 miles in 2:08:30. In fact, when I checked back through my old running log later in the afternoon, I determined this was my fastest ever 20 miler (aside from a 20 mile race in Spotsylvania several years ago). I still have a bit of running to do before race day finally arrives, but I’m really pleased with how things turned out today. Almost time to taper….

Today’s sale includes the Saucony Omni LX Tight for men and women, plus three excellent long sleeve tops featuring unmatched ViZi-PRO™ color intensity and roadside visibility:

• Saucony Omni LX Tight Two Lady – Was $65. Now $26.95
• Saucony Omni LX Tight Two Men – Was $65. Now $26.95
• Saucony ViZi-PRO™ Epic Drylete Sportop Men- Was $75. Now $29.95
• Saucony ViZi-PRO™ Inferno Long Sleeve Top Men – Was $38. Now $14.95
• Saucony ViZi-PRO™ Run Lux Long Sleeve Top Lady – Was $40. Now $14.95

Note: “Today’s Deal Price” not retroactive on prior purchases. Limit 3 per customer, per order, per day.

I first spotted the range of Bulldog Natural Skincare products on my recent trip to Wales. The eye-catching logo/packaging caught my eye, and I soon found myself checking out the products and reading the various quirky descriptions….

Unless you’re a geography teacher or a communist revolutionary, you’ll have to shave sometime.

How can you face your problem if your problem is your face? This isn’t the whole answer, but it’s a start.

However, with an already jammed-full-suitcase waiting to be lugged back to the USA, I opted not to buy any of the products, but instead made a mental note to “check online” on my return.

Fast forward a couple of weeks, and as I’m logging a morning run on Earndit.com – a great site that rewards you for exercising – I noticed that one of their new “Rewards Partners” was none other than Bulldog Natural Skincare!!

(By the way, you can check out some of Earndit’s other Reward Partners by clicking here.)

For just 300 Earndit points I was able to select a $20 Bulldog Skincare gift card, which arrived via email within a matter of minutes.

It didn’t take long to select three of their products – Original Face Wash, Original Moisturizer and Original Shave Gel – before clicking “Submit” to place my order. Just two days later, a small package arrived (contents shown above)…

Original Shave Gel
They say – Packed with 8 essential oils, aloe vera, jojoba and konjac mannan for an incredibly smooth shave.

Be loyal to your skin. Our products never contain parabens, sodium laureth sulfate, artificial colours, synthetic fragrances, or ingredients from animal sources.

I say – The shave gel was the first Bulldog product I used. I’m typically pretty fussy when it comes to shaving gels/foams/oils, but this one was as close to perfect as I’ve found. It applies easily, is fresh smelling and allows the razor to glide effortlessly over the skin. The best thing for me, however, was that the gel didn’t clog the razor like so many other shave products are prone to do.

Original Face Wash
They say – Packed with 8 essential oils and green tea to gently cleanse your face of dirt and debris.

Be loyal to your skin. Our products never contain parabens, sodium laureth sulfate, artificial colours, synthetic fragrances, or ingredients from animal sources.

I say – Smells just like the other Bulldog products – fresh without being overpowering. Lathers up nicely, rinses off easily and above all doesn’t leave your skin feeling dry as a prune. Great stuff!

Original Moisturizer
They say – Packed with 8 essential oils, green tea, green algae, konjac mannan and vitamin E to help rehydrate the skin.

Be loyal to your skin. Our products never contain parabens, sodium laureth sulfate, artificial colours, synthetic fragrances, or ingredients from animal sources.

I say – Great smell, applies easily and is not at all greasy. Lasts a long time and doesn’t block the pores like some guys’ moisturizers do.

Next up for me to try will be the Original After Shave Balm and perhaps the Anti-Ageing Moisturizer which I believe is only sold in the UK at the moment.

Finally, in the last couple of days I’ve managed to secure an exclusive 15% savings code with Bulldog Natural Skincare, so if you fancy trying any of their products just use the following code YN5F8JT36 at their online US Store.

[Note: 15% discount available through 12/31/11.]

More great deals over at The Clymb! The latest offerings from the member-exclusive 72-hour sales web site include New Balance footwear & accessories (e.g. New Balance 690, 650, MT310, Women’s 855, 690, 470, assorted gloves and headband), and a great selection of Sport Science shirts in a range of colors, styles & designs.

Have to say, The Clymb is one of my favorite shopping web sites at the moment – bargains galore, but you have to be quick before the goods sell out. Happy shopping!

Course Description: Using all marked trails throughout First Landing State Park, runners will make two full 25 mile loops. Trails are primarily flat with varying terrain (sand, pine needles, wooden bridges, tree roots). Mostly runnable, there are a few sections that have technical short steep hills. Stunning water and trails views along the way. Terrain – 95% trail, 5% road.

Not sure where to start with this to be honest. I’d been *thinking* about this event for a while, but only signed up a couple of days before the race was due to take place. With the Cardiff Half Marathon and Marine Corps Marathon taking place later this month I knew recovery from a 50 mile race would be a bit hit or miss. However, in the end I decided a local, inaugural 50 Miler was too good an opportunity to pass up.

Priorities were to enjoy the event, the course and the ultra-camaraderie, but I also had a sneaky outside goal of breaking 7 hours. Probably a bit ambitious with my recent glute/groin issues, but what the heck, eh? I deliberately chose to not go public with the goal as I didn’t want this race to turn into a “pressure event” – turned out to be a good decision.

Pre-race I set my Garmin to beep every ten miles, alert me each hour (a reminder to take 3 Endurolyte capsules) and to just display average pace. I also set “Jonesy” (my virtual partner) at 8:24/mile pace – just fast enough to squeeze inside the 7 hour goal.

[And we're off.... Photo courtesy Ally Speirs]

I figured I’d probably go out too quick, and I was correct – 8:10 pace for the first 10 mile loop, but it felt.so.good. Perpetuem was my fuel of choice, but I’d also stashed an espresso gel (and the Endurolytes) into my hand held pouch for some emergency fuel if the need arose.

It was nice to have company for most of the first 25 mile loop. I ran about 18 miles with the female half of the 2 x 25 mile relay team. She was using the 25 Mile event as a long training run for Ironman Florida. We chatted about triathlon, running, nutrition and a variety of other topics, and the miles literally flew by. 2nd 10 mile split was 8:11 pace – again too quick, but once again it felt.so.good.

[Note: I did manage to cut my upper arm on a tree branch in the early miles, and also took an embarrassing tumble on one of the side trails - my first real trip on a tree root, and it all happened in slow motion just like the text books say. Luckily there was no damage (aside from sand all down the left side of my body), so I picked myself up and carried on running.

Not sure what happened at around the 18 mile mark. Without making any conscious effort, I picked up the pace and started to stretch things out. Deep down I knew it wasn't a wise move, but had a hard time dialing things back to my original goal. I didn't get a split for the half-way 25 mile mark, but finished in front of the relay lady, and also the 1st place runner in the 25 Mile event. Naturally I set off for the 2nd 25 mile lap a very confident runner...

My third 10 mile split came in at 7:40 pace - way too fast with 20 miles still to run. It was about this time that I realized the temperature had risen pretty quickly and I was sweating profusely. I brushed away a bug that was buzzing around my head and was horrified at the salt crystals that had formed on my neck. Despite taking a regular dose of Endurolytes I was a little scared that my electrolyte levels were off, and made sure to take in pretzels and chips at the next aid station. I never really felt thirsty, and the combination of my hand held w/ Perpetuem and water at the aid stations felt just about perfect.
I think it was the loneliness of the 4th 10 mile section that made me slow up. Yeah, I was getting tired, but I think I lost focus for a few miles and spent longer than normal at the aid stations making sure I took in plenty of salty snacks. I also had to make a stop in the woods for a short time, so this may have cost me a minute or two too! Anyway, 8:59 pace for the 10 miles. Hmmm....

With *just* 10 miles to go (5 of them on the tricky side trails of the park), I worked out I needed to roughly average 9 minute miles to break the sub-7:00 barrier. Sounds easy, but with 40 miles in the legs already, it was difficult to keep the cadence going. The next five miles were the toughest of the race. With "the win" almost guaranteed (I forgot to mention I was in 2nd place until about the 13 mile mark, after which I continued to put big time on my nearest challenger), the thought of backing off the pace and coasting home to the finish crossed my mind. Well, actually, the thought crossed my mind for just a split second before deciding to throw caution to the wind and just "go for it". However, I didn't/couldn't improve my pace on the Osprey & Cape Henry Trails, which left me 5 miles to cover in 45 minutes. Ugh.

I'd already ditched my hand held at this stage in the race (sick of carrying it), but knew there were 3 aid stations that I could grab water from if necessary. Come on, Steve; let's do it. Thankfully the Cape Henry Trail is marked every half mile, which I took full advantage of..... As each half mile passed, I found myself putting time in the bank, and with one mile to go was amazed that there were 12 minutes left to break the magic 7 hour mark.

[Managed to find a spring in my step for the final 100m... Photo courtesy Ally Speirs]

I cruised the last mile, thanked the final aid station volunteers for their help and support, and kicked it in for the finish. The clock displayed 6:56 something as I crossed the line, but to be honest was in my own little word and purely on auto-pilot. (8:49 pace for the final 10 btw…)

[Sub-7:00. Wow... Photo courtesy Crystal L. Santos Photography]

What a wonderful event, and what a very satisfying performance. Not really sure where I find the drive to keep pushing when the going gets tough, but hope it never goes away. Thanks to everyone for the continued support, wonderful comments and daily motivation – it really means so much. Thanks also to Final Mile Events for putting on a top notch event and to all the wonderful volunteers who gave up their Saturday to help out a bunch of crazy ultra runners.

By the way, the Gibbet 50 awards are probably the coolest I’ve seen at any race. Check out the light-up skull I won for being 1st place Male. Tremendous!!

[Accepting 1st Place Male award from Race Director Brenda Carawan... Photo courtesy Ally Speirs]