Wolfpax

Being asked to crew, speaks to your relationship with that person. It is a big responsibility, you must be selfless and attentive (just to name a few). Their goals become yours; they trust you to help them achieve them.

It's quite the honor if you ask me, and she did. I had the opportunity to crew for my athlete. I am absolutely grateful for this experience.

Hannah's goal race was Leona Divide 100k. Her goal was to earn a Western States Endurance Run lottery ticket and finish in 15 hours. Well, Hannah met her goals and ran faster than her goal time (14:18:00).

Here is Hannah's race report:

After completing a handful of 50ks over the past few years, I felt ready to tackle a longer distance. I ultimately chose the Leona Divide 100k due to location, timing, and race reputation. Having a training base of around 4o-50 miles/week prior to registering, I followed a training plan designed by my coach for the 11 weeks leading up to Leona. Inherent in the plan was a focus on nutrition and effort management, as these were areas to which I had previously dedicated little to no attention. My longest efforts prior to the 100k were a 50k (The Ranch 50k) and the 37-mile traverse across JTNP.

I felt well-prepared heading into race day. The race did not disappoint! Race day weather was nearly perfect, the trail conditions ideal (primarily PCT single track and fire road), and the views incredible. Aid/Crew locations were well-positioned and well stocked, although I relied primarily on crew for nutrition.

The course itself was challenging, with several long climbs/descents, the most significant located in the first third of the race. My focus was to start slow, and to take advantage of the opportunity to get ahead of nutrition on the long climbs. Despite hitting the first crew location (17.6) around 45 minutes sooner than my rough expectation, I felt good at this point both in terms of energy management and nutrition/hydration intake.

The 22 miles to the next crew location were a mixture of long/short climbs/descents – again, with beautiful views! I estimated 5.5 hrs to complete this section; this was fairly close to actual. I again focused on managing my effort on hills, nutrition, and hydration – especially electrolytes as we approached midday. By the time I reached the second crew stop (39.6) I could feel that my nutrition plan was going to crap. While not unbearably hot, the direct sunlight exposure caused me to feel slightly nauseous/turned off at the idea of eating anything. My quads were burning on the final descent to 39.6.

Miles 39-51 were the most challenging section of this race for me. The climbs felt long, my feet hurt, and I struggled to eat anything. I managed to down a measly 80 cal of electrolytes during this entire leg. Despite how I felt physically, I felt mentally strong/alert. I thought about those who’ve inspired me, and about friends who are currently going through much more difficult circumstances than I am. We are capable of so much more than we give ourselves credit for. By the time I reached mile 51, I was so happy to see my crew (wife and coach!) who are an incredible cheer squad and support system. After a slight (or maybe not slight) panic that I’d missed a turn prior to this crew stop (I hadn’t), and a super quick drink of coke/chips, I headed out for the final 9 miles.

During the final section, I witnessed a beautiful sunset, walked a long climb, and thoroughly enjoyed the roughly 6-mile final downhill to the finish line. I was pleasantly surprised with how I felt physically and mentally by the time I reached the finish.

All in all, the race was an incredible experience!

It takes a village; I’m so blessed with the most amazing wife ever who supports and encourages the long training hours, the best coach I could have asked for to guide me along the way, and all of the race volunteers who make the event possible. This race was another opportunity to learn and discover; I’m excited for what’s next!