Western States: It’s On!

I’m heading down to California tomorrow for my first hundred-miler, the Western States Endurance Run. As if 100 miles wasn’t challenge enough, we’re in for snow, extreme heat, and all the leg-pounding, teeth-chattering fun that running up mountains and down canyons entails.

In fact, there is so much snow on parts of the course this year that for the second year in a row, organizers have had to modify early parts of the route. This year, they’ve even had to avoid Robinson Flat at around mile 30 which has traditionally been the first major aid station where crews can meet their runners. This year, we won’t see their crews until Michigan Bluff over 55 miles into the race! Check out the changes here.

As far as 100-mile races go, race day coverage of Western States is about as good as it gets, so check out the main site on Saturday starting at 5:00 am for links to the Ultralive results and live blog or click here to track my progress. Be sure to follow the rest of the BC contingent, Mike Palichuk, David Crerar, Chad Hyson, Jason Loutitt, defending women’s champ, Tracy Garneau, and of course our honourary Vancouverite, Ellie Greenwood.

Tim Wiens won’t be running because of several injuries, but will be leading my crew which also includes Alan Yu and lead pacer, Hozumi Nakai.