This is a photo of us the last time we were together.  Looking forward to many more photos this weekend, although they may be of us lying beside the trail!

(L) You have seen glimpses of what we are thinking regarding the upcoming race each week in the torture report. So, I decided to start making a running list of all of the things that are going through my head as I prepare for the Outrun 24. During the Outrun 24 we will attempt to run 50 miles. I would also like to add here that upon agreeing to this adventure, the mileage was set at a 40-mile goal. Somewhere along the road of training, G, decided that 40 just wasn’t enough for us mere mortals and upped the mileage to 50!!! It’s her birthday bash, so she can run as far as she wants to. We will try to keep up.

Anyway, below you will begin to understand what I have been thinking each and every day from the time I get up in the morning until I close my eyes at night.

1. Are you insane? Yes
2. I can do this.
3. There is no way I can do this.
4. I will just do what I can.
5. I got this.
6. Long run today…or maybe tomorrow?
7. I feel motivated and energized.
8. I am so tired.
9. I can’t possibly run 50 miles.
10. I hope its not windy
11. Do you think it will be warm?
12. I hope it doesn’t rain.
13. I can walk 50 miles, right?
14. I can run more when I have other people with me
15. After my 16 mile run…I can’t imagine taking another step. How am I going to do 50?
16. The altitude training is going to help me during this race.
17. It’s nice out, but I really want to watch Netflix so I am going to run on the treadmill.
18. I can’t possibly do another run on the treadmill.
19. I hope it doesn’t snow.
20. What was I thinking signing up for this craziness?
21. I am going to walk, walking is good
22. I am going to run as far as I can
23. I am only going to walk for 1 minute…or 5.
24. How long do I have to get to 50 miles?
25. Is there a drive thru along the trail?
26. Can I take a nap during the race?
27. I need how many pairs of shoes?
28. Do you think 5 miles at altitude equals 10 miles at sea level?
29. If you change your mind and want to drink margaritas in the hotel..I’m down with that.
30.  Wait, I agreed to do what?
31.  WE GOT THIS!!

 

(G) Oh my! Really, I don’t even know what to say after that. The last week of training has been light. Some of that because it was supposed to be and a little because my feline Basil had other plans for my Saturday than running. Thankfully he’s feeling better after some kitty acupuncture (I know, crazy right?!)
Only 21 miles in all and my longest day was 8 miles. Feeling like I should be good and rested by Saturday! To be sure, I am thinking and feeling lots of other things as well but I think I summed that up yesterday.
On a semi-related note, an annual race that Johnny Armani and I just love to go to opens registration today. Every year on Earth Day, Howl at the Moon 8-Hour Run/Walk opens the race. If you can be in the Illinois-area Aug. 9th it’s worth your time. While I am not committing to any other races for the rest of the year until we get to the backside of Outrun, I can’t ever say no to the Howl. So that means that I need to be committed or I am committed… You decide.

4 DAYS…

Sunshine & Sarcasm,

Lowi & G

 

Tuesday’s weekly Torture Report is designed to keep all of you posted on the insanity of training for a race to celebrate G’s 40th birthday. The goal is 50 miles at Outrun 24 Hour Trail Race but we’ll see how it goes. To find out more on how this plan was set in motion, check out Lowi’s blog. If you missed the last Torture Report, check it out here.