2010 has come and gone, and to say it has been memorable would be quite an understatement. There have been great times and some not so great times but I have learned so many valuable lessons this year. There are no guarantees in life and I continue to strive to be the best person I can be. I have met so many amazing people this year and I am lucky to have so many winners in my life. For that I am grateful. Here is a quick re-cap of this year.

For me 2010 really started late in 2009. I had just finished my first 50 mile race(North Face Endurance Challenge) and was really looking forward to seeing how far I could go. Running for Owen Simmons had inspired me and had made the training and racing easy. Sadly, Owen earned his angel wings and i wanted to do something more to honor this young man. On a whim entered the lottery for the Western States 100, figuring there was no way in hell I would get into this prestigious race. I had heard of the race before but I never envisioned being able to run that far or for that long. Well lo and behold I was selected on my first try getting into WS. For my first 100 miler I would be running the WS on my first try. Not bad. I was elated but a bit nervous. Sorta like what the hell did I do this for.

My good mood quickly turned somber when the very next day my beloved Beau dog collapsed and died in my arms. He was the best dog a man could have, the sweetest boy. I was devastated. Life on life's terms I guess. My great friends Claudia, Gillian and Manny helped me through this tough time and for that I am eternally grateful for their help.

I knew I would be running in Owens honor but I also wanted to raise money and awareness for SMA. I talked with Heather(Owen's mom) and asked her which SMA charity we should run for. Heather gave me a few suggestions and said they were all worthy but said the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation is really a special organization. Heather told me how Bill and Victoria Strong helped her out during her trying times and that they work tirelessly to raise money and awareness for this dreaded disease. Bill and Victoria's beautiful daughter(Gwendolyn) has SMA. Boy was I glad that I listened to Heather. GSF is a wonderful organization and they are such powerful, positive people. It is an honor to know Bill, Victoria, and Gwendolyn. They are a shining light and a tremendous power of example.

Training started in earnest in January and I was in unknown territory. I embraced it though and looked forward to the challenge. Training in the cold and wind of a New England winter is no picnic but I just trudged through it. Thankfully I didn't experience any injuries and I took really good care of myself. I listened to my body when it told me to rest and I pushed it when I was feeling really good. For me the key is staying off the roads. Of all the miles I logged this year the only nagging injury I suffered was nagging hamstring tightness. When I run on the trails, I am in heaven. The roads not so much. They are a necessary evil for me though. Southern Mass is not exactly a trail running mecca

As the weather turned warmer, training really intensified. Like I said I am fortunate that I didn't experience any big problems running. I ran the New Bedford Half Marathon and had a great time. Everything was on track. I was then fortunate to have met a wonderful woman, Magda, who became my girlfriend. She is just as crazy as I am. We hit it off immediately. She even got my clumsy butt into Bikram Yoga. I am so fortunate to have Magda in my life.

Training in April was a lot of fun as the weather got warmer. I introduced Magda to trail running and she fell in love with it immediately. She even fell down and ripped her pants open on her first run. Quite the romantic run. I was also able to run the Boston Marathon 2010. This was the second time I ran Boston and I had a lot of fun. It was a perfect day. The weather was perfect, the crowds were great and there was a lot of excitement. And remember how I said Magda is crazy. Well she works for Puma and thought it would be a great idea to run a marathon. Not on the road, but inside of the Newbury St Puma store, on a TREADMILL. Thats right, 26.2 miles on a treadmill. Good grief! She made it with no problems and looked beautiful doing it!

Our next endeavor was the Mcnaughton Ultra Marathon in Pittsfield Vermont. This madness had it all, great people, mud, rain, snow, rainbows. You name it, MCnasty had it. The course was a a ten mile loop course throughout the mountains of Vermont. Myself and Magda were only running the thirty mile "fun run" while others had the option of 50, 100, 150, 200 mile option. Thats right, 200 hundred miles. Two hardy souls(Ryan Dexter and Mike Siltman) were able to finish 200 miles. As we started our race, it started to rain, and then pour, and then rain so more. The course quickly turned into a quagmire but we trudged through with no real problems. I was fortunate to meet some great people(Andy Weinberg) and had a fun time in the mud. It was a great mental test and I know it would help for my first 100 mile test..

The training continued throughout the spring with no real hitches. i was doing mileage I never thought I would do and it was a real trial and error situation. Some weeks I felt great, others not so much. But I always had my angel with me pushing me not to quit. For one last training run, a group of new friends I had met(Kenny "the Gambler" Rogers, Kevin "the Mullenator" Mullen", Lori Watkins, Bethany Bertrand, Ryan Couto, Jim Frenette, Sheryl Briggs) and Magda and I made our way to Maine for the Pineland Farms 50 Miler. Magda ran and finished her 50k with no problems and I ran the 50 mile option. For the first 50 miles of the race I was definitely not feeling it. My hamstrings were killing me and I was fried from all the miles I had banked for the Western States. But at about mile 25 I was able to regroup and collect my senses. I honestly felt like quitting but again I was able to dig deep and had a running conversation with my running angels. I don't know what it is or what it was but I was reenergized and felt fantastic. I was able to finish in a little over 9 hours and was totally confident in how I was able to dig deep and battle through the low. As an Ultra runner, you must always face a low in a race. Getting through to the other side is the key because often times you come out the other side totally renewed. Although I knew that veteran Ultra runners say that 100 milers are four times harder than fifty milers, I felt confident that I could accomplish my goal.

Before The Western States, we were able to raise significant funds for the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation with a fundraiser at lebeau's Tavern. It was a great time and a lot of fun. Lots of raffles and Dave "Buck Nasty" Conceicao on the mic made for a good night. And now it was taper time till the Western States.

I won't recap the Western States again(already blogged about it) but I will say this. This was truly a life changing experience. I never, ever in my life would have thought I would have been able to do something as incredible as WS100. I am truly blessed and fortunate, as well as grateful for all my running angels who carried me through this endeavor. I never would have finished without em. As a post note, I just got feeling back in my toes from Western States lol!

After coming back from Cali, I took it easy and thoroughly enjoyed my summer. This race definitely took its toll on me and I kept on twisting my ankle. I went through a little depression after the big race but I guess that's to be expected. It can't be all sunshine and rainbows! I shut it down for a little while and tried to rest up.

Our next little adventure took us out to the North Face Endurance Challenge in Wisconsin. This would be Magda's first 50 mile race as well as Patty Carreiro's first 50. Patty is Magda's friend and decided to join us out Midwest. The day of the big race brought a lot of threatening thunderclouds and lightning. As we assembled for the start, it started to thunder and lightning. Potential nastiness soon turned to immediate nastiness.. As soon as the gun went off it started to pour all over us. Not little bitty rain, but big old fat rain. It was tough going but we kept on trudging along. It rained for most of the race and made everything tough. Magda and Patty were terrific, me, not so much. It was a tough day and I had hit my wall. At about mile 30, I had had enough. I def didn't want to be out there any longer but knew I couldn't quit. My hamstrings were on fire and non responsive. I again asked for help from my running angels but I think I went to the well once to often. I was going to have to gut this out on my own. Magda and Patty were cruising along just kicking the course's ass. it took all I could to keep up. For whatever reason at about mile 40 I started to feel a little bit better and knew I could make it. This race wasn't about me however, it was about showing two lovely ladies the joys of running long and far. Patty went out ahead of us and it was just me and Magda for the last 2 or 3 miles. I knew she would finish the race but I think she was still a little nervous. I settled her down a bit with a little military cadence and we finished with no problems. It was a great feeling seeing the emotions from Magda and Patty. They totally kicked butt and ran their first 50 like veterans. We had a great time In Wisconsin and met some great friends. Thank you Angie, Miranda, and Tom for your hospitality.

Myself and Magda then traveled to London for a wonderful vacation. It was an absolute blast and great time. We jammed in everything you could do and will have lasting memories of a wonderful vacation!

I ran a little in the fall but took all of October off to recharge the batteries. It was much needed and the smart thing to do. The lottery to Western States was around the corner and I was unsure if I would be putting in for it. It was quite an expense last year running the race but I decided that the experience was well worth it. Plus I could continue to spread awareness for SMA and run for Owen and all the other SMA Angels. They have done so much for me, it is the least I can do for them and their families.

As the lottery approached I knew the odds of getting in the race were low, much lower than last year. I figured i wouldn't get in but would try anyway. lo and behold my name was one of the first names pulled from the hat and I was selected to run Western States 100 2011. I believe the odds to get selected this year were about 9% and I am very fortunate and grateful to have the opportunity to run this special race again. I guess Owen and all those SMA angels who ran with me really had a good time last year and wanted to do it again! Yessir lets do this again. I hope not to disappoint. There is still so much SMA butt kicking left to do.

Sadly my year ended on a very sad note. LIfe is life and it has its ups and downs. Like last year, I lost a wonderful family member, Winston. I adopted Winston in October and quickly fell in love with him. He was a cancer survivor and a great dog. Tragically I lost control of him and he ran after another dog into traffic. This was one of the toughest things I have ever had to endure, but thankfully I had the tremendous support of Magda, my great friends(Dave Conceicao, Claudia and Gillian Sampson, and Manny Maciel) They helped me so much and made this difficult time in my life bearable. I also want to thank Dr. William Truesdale and Jeri Poller for the opportunity to be part of Winston's life, even though it was for a short time.

I probably left a lot for this year but i didn't want to turn this blog into a War and Peace novel. It was a great year and one that I wont soon forget. Next year is already in full swing and i cant wait for the challenges that await me. I feel I can tackle anything and will continue to strive to be the best person I can be. Goodbye 2010, hello 2011

100 Miles 4 Owen Celebration

Sorry for the late blog, but my middle name beside Andrew is procrastination. On Saturday July 17th, team 100 miles 4 Owen met at the Waterfront Grille to celebrate what we had accomplished. Present for the dinner were Magda, Heather and Andy, Claudia, Gillian, David aka Buck Nasty, Greg, Chief Teachman, and Pam Sousa. Tons of laughs, amazing friendship, and a special presentation were in store for the evening.

We settled in for a great evening and the fun began. For those of you who know me and my friends, you know that we have no problem making fun of each other, which we did in abundance. Good thing for thick skin! We talked about what a wonderful experience the Western States had been and the amazing work my friends had done to make this journey so special. I am so thankful for their help and support. We were able to raise close to $12000 for the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation, which is an amazing foundation. Victoria, Bill and their beautiful baby girl Gwendolyn are doing amazing work raising money and awareness to help end this dreaded disease. I am lucky and fortunate to have made their acquaintance and to have become their friend.

It was a great evening of terrific food, great friends, and for one other reason. Sometime during my run of the Western States, my mind had time enough to wander just a bit. Thats what happens when your on your feet running for 27 hours. My SMA angels were along with me along the way and I got a bit of inspiration from my friend, the Oman(once again). I knew I would not be denied and that I was going to finish this race, come hell or high water. All finishers of the Western States 100 get a coveted belt buckle. A silver for sub 24hrs or the bronze for sub 30 hours. It is probably the most coveted symbol or award in ultra running. During the race I made the decision that I would give the buckle to Andy, Heather, and Adyn. That buckle didn't belong to me, it really didn't. It belonged to Owen, it's as simple as that. I would never have thought about running a race like that if it wasn't for his inspiration. Myself and Magda had the buckle framed on the beautiful poster we had made of Owen. It came out beautiful. It felt so special to give this gift to Heather and Andy, if only to repay them for the gift that had been given to me. When Adyn gets a bit older, i want him to know what a special little brother he has, how he helped change a mans life!

This whole experience has been surreal, a life changing event. I cant wait to do it again and to continue to run in honor of Owen and for the Gwendolyn Strong . We are not done, not by a long shot and we will to continue to raise money and awareness to end this dreaded disease.

Western States Endurance Run 2010

It's been a week since I ran my first 100 miler, the Western States Endurance Run. To say that I have been on a tremendous high would be quite an understatement. Today I am feeling a bit blue because the only place I can relive this life changing event is in my mind and in this blog. It will have to do. I feel so grateful and fortunate to have been able to compete in and complete this endeavor. What a wonderful weekend and actually a wonderful six months leading up to the actual race. I have made a ton of new friends, renewed old acquaintances, and lost a few friends. If you told me over a year ago that I was going to run the Western States and finsih this race I would have told you that you were crazy. The body, mind and human spirit are an amazing gift that sometimes we forget how amazing they really are. I was fortunate enough to receive that gift, the spark of the human spirit from a little boy I had only met twice. Owen Simmons's gift to me was that spark of the human spirit. I have tried so hard not to disappoint and to honor Owen's memory the right way. I hope I have done so.

Myself and my pacer(Kenny "the Gambler" Rogers) flew into Sacramento on Wednesday to try and get acquainted with the surroundings of Squaw Valley. I am so grateful to Ken. I had only just recently met Ken and asked him last minute if he would pace me at Western. I don't think it took much arm twisting but his last minute acceptance gave me a lot of confidence. Ken is old as hell and has been around the block a few times! Seriously Ken's experience and knowledge of Ultra's proved invaluable as a I would later find out. On the drive from Sacramento to Squaw Valley it is a little over 100 miles. As my little, ugly yellow, rental car started to strain going up the steep grades my nervousness started to take over. The mountains that we started to climb were so impressive and beautiful but I kept replaying in my head, "how in the hell am I going to run 100 miles in this." My trail running consisted of nice easy rolling trails on Cape Cod, not exactly the mecca for mountain running. I could always rap my head around running 100 miles by just envisioning running from my house to Boston and then back. The Sierra Nevada is not Massachusetts that is for sure.

We arrived at our lodging and was in awe of our surroundings. Squaw Valley and the entire area is beyond beautiful. Our place over looked the main valley right into the main village. We settled in relaxed as best we could and awaited my girlfriends(Magda) arrival the next day.

On Thursday we climbed to the top of Escarpment(or close enough) for the flag raising ceremony. Again the views were breathtaking and exhilarating. I did notice that it was harder to climb than usual and that the altitude would be a factor. The top of Squaw is at 8200 feet. Troubled by the fact that this was going to be a difficult task, I started to think of different ways that I could channel help and remember my SMA families and angels. I decided that it would be a great idea to carry a piece of paper with me during the entire race with the names of SMA angels, families affected by this disease and people I have lost that were close to me. I don't know where this idea came from but it was probably not me. Probably one of my little angels looking out for this big dummy. I contacted numerous people through facebook and was humbled by the response I got. We received over forty names of kids and adults affected by SMA. Most were people I had never heard of before or even met. Needless to say this boyoued my spirit. How could I fail now with all these angels around me. I had my beloved Elijah Alvarado on my list, a student we grew to know and love from NBHS. Elijah did not have SMA but was a shining star in my life. I had my beloved dogs, BEau and Dempsey who I miss so much. those who know me know how important my dogs are in my life and it was important to have them along for the ride. When I run long distances I always envision them running and playing with the Oman and other SMA angels. I had my beloved Grandmother who meant so much to me.

The next day(friday) we had check in, weigh in, mandatory meetings etc. The atmosphere was great and it was amazing seeing some of the elite runners in the sport. It was great to socialize, be around and talk to so many great runners who compete in these races. These are elite, Olympic style athletes that get the same thing I do if I finish. A belt buckle, and for the lucky winners a beautiful trophy. There is no money, no huge endorsement contracts, no big fame or fortune. There are no "artificial sweeteners", " no enhancers" no "cream" or the "clear"There is only the love of ultra running and the feeling you get at the end of a race that you are one bad ass! The thought that you are doing something that most people think that you are either crazy or stupid.

Friday night into Saturday was unbearable. Magda had been sneaky and went into town to a printer. I don't know how she did it put she was able to get printed a picture of Owen and had it laminated so I could take him along for the run. She was able to also get a large piece of paper with Owen's pic in the middle so we could put all the names down on the paper to bring along for the ride. Magda was amazing the whole trip. She was always thinking one step ahead of me(which isnt too hard) and was always there for me. I was probably tough to be around by that time but she kept putting up with me. It is so hard for the pacers and crew members during race week. I think it is tougher for them because we runners get to do our thing and just run whereas they do a lot of sitting around and waiting. I am forever grateful. After I had gathered all my stuff that I would need for the race I tried to settle down for some much needed sleep, but that wasn't happening. I tossed and turned for a bit and just watched the clock.

On the drive to the start, we looked up at the sky, and the moon looked a bit funny. We new it was going to be a full moon tomorrow but this moon looked like a quarter moon. We later found out that the start of the race would be under a lunar eclipse. What a great wait to experience my first Western. We gathered in the main lodge, got our numbers, and then tried to relax until the 5:00am start. I found myself more relaxed than I had been for the last few days because I was finally going to run. There was def a lot of buzz in the room and a lot of nervous excitement. We gathered outside just before the start and I became a little introspective. I thought how my life had changed in short amount of time. I thought of Owen, my Grandmother, Gwendolyn Strong, my dog Beau and Dempsey, I thought of a lot of things. I was nervous, I was scared but I was determined and confident. I was ready to do this, sink or swim. Gordy Ainsleigh(the founder of the Western States) then took the microphone with about 30 seconds left till the start. He told the runners, "you will leave here as one man but arrive in Auburn as a different man" or something along those lines. Words that are so true.

ESCARPMENT

The gun went off and we started our climb up to Escarpment. Straight up the mountain is about a four mile distance to the top. I settled into a nice power walk up the mountain and ran just occasionally. It was instilled into me to run my own race and not to get too excited in the beginning. I maintained a nice easy pace and talked to several runners during this stretch. When we started our final climb up to the top, the sun was just rising from the east. The view from the top was absolutely awe inspiring and beautiful. The sun rising, Lake Tahoe behind and snow covered mountains and valleys surrounding us. I stood for a few moments and took it in.

FRENCH MEADOWS RESEVOIR

Because of the late snow melt and and the amount of snow in the high country(Lyons Ridge, Red Star Ridge) we would be running the snow course of the Western States. After Escarpment we ran through approx., five miles of snow, mud, water etc. It was pretty fun and I didn't mind the snow whatsoever. My feet were soaking wet a little earlier than I had anticipated but it was a lot of fun. Plus the scenery, sights and smells were beautiful. After running for a while in the high country we started to drop down into the area known as French Meadows reservoir. It was beautiful running, nice single track along the reservoir. I happily carried on conversations with fellow runners and was just trying to enjoy the run which was easy. I was having no problems and everything was going as well as could be expected. Even my balky hamstring was giving me no problems. My angels were with me.

DUNCAN CANYON

We started a fairly long hike out of French Meadow reservoir into the Duncan Canyon aid station. The climb up was something else. We ran through burnt out forest and could actually still smell the smoke. After climbing for about a mile we reached the aid station and I did a quick assessment. I was right on the 24 hour cut time but I was under no illusions that I would finish under 24. But I was very happy with my progress and how I was feeling. After some quick refueling and smiles and thank you's to the volunteers, I was stopped by one of the nurses in the station. She kindly observed that one of my nipples was bleeding and that I better look after that. It looked like a had a bullet wound under my heart. I hadn't even noticed. She took care of me and I was on my way. Out of the aid station I started to run pretty well. The terrain was fairly benign and I was going at a pretty good clip. At the bottom of the canyon we crossed a stream that was about up to our knees. It felt great. The climb out of Duncan Canyon was tough and long though. I thought it was never ending. After some good power walking I got of the canyon and was on my way to Robinson Flat(Mile 29.7) I was still in good shape and was excited because I would be seeing Magda and Kenny for the first time.

ROBINSON FLAT

It was like a winter wonderland in Robinson Flat. It was midday, probably about 85 degrees out already and there was snow everywhere. I came into the aid station in fine spirits, located Kenny and Magda and came in for a quick pit stop. I was feeling really good and strong and didn't want to linger in the aid station too long. I changed my shoes, got some fuel and was on my way. Thats what I mean about the crew, I had last seen them at 5am, 7 hours later I see them for 5 minutes and then I wont see them until Michigan Bluff(Mile 55) As I left the aid station I had to trudge about half a mile through snow until I got to a section where you could at least pick your spots and run. Then came my favorite part of the whole run, a little section called Little Bald Mountain into Millers Defeat aid station. the decline was gradual and I was feeling great. I ran very well and was probably going a bit to fast but I was going to ride it. It was becoming very warm out but again I was in good shape and was experiencing no problems. I cruised that whole section very fast and was taking in the adequate nutrition and hydration(which is the most important thing in an Ultra) I had been weighed at Robinson Flat and my weight had been exactly where it was when I started(198lbs) I continued to cruise these sections until the Last Chance aid station. Things would be different from there that is for sure.

DEVILS THUMB

I knew I was coming to the hardest part of the course, the Canyons. The Canyons are series of three Canyons, Devils Thumb, ElDorado, and Volcano Canyon. This section of the course is very hard because of the descent, ascent, heat and rugged terrain. It is also some of the most beautiful country in America. After leaving Last Chance I started my descent into Devil's Thumb Canyon. The downhill was brutal and tearing up my quads. My pace had been real good up to this point but now I found myself trying to slow down on the downhills. I am not a good downhill runner and that was purely evident as a congo line of runners flew past me. It took all I could from careening down the trail ass over tea kettle. I maintained my composure and was glad when I finally got to the bottom of the canyon. At the bottom of the canyon there is a small creek that runners usually dip into before they trudge up the canyon wall. There were about four or five runners in the creek cooling off when I went by. I was so tempted to jump in there(I should have) but I just wanted to press on. The long slow climb out of Devil's literally takes your breathe away, at least it did for me. After the third switchback, I was bent over sucking air asking myself how the hell am I going to get out of here. Again I didn't do any serious climbing training and it was now clearly affecting me. I trudged on and struck up a conversation with another air sucking sole. He wasn't having much fun either but we just kept at it. I started to feel stronger and picked up my pace. I made it out of Devil's bruised and battered but I was ok. Only two more canyons to go. The aid station at Devils was great. I scoffed down some nourishment, got dunked with ice water, and got a popsicle for my trouble. I was feeling tired but I thought I would be ok. Onto El Dorado Canyon

EL DORADO CANYON

El Dorado Canyon is a bigger and deeper canyon than Devil's but is not as steep and is a bit more gradual. The heat was really brutal at this point in the day and I was starting to feel the effects of running this distance over this type of terrain. I wasn't discouraged, I still felt confident, but I knew the work was going to start real soon. As I started down the Canyon, the views were just amazing. I again got introspective and started to think how grateful I am to have the opportunity to do this, but two to be surrounded by such great people in my life. I took a moment along the trail and just took in the scenery. I watched as either hawks, or eagles started to lift up from the canyon and fly around. There was good music playing and I felt this huge amount of emotion wash over me. I knew those eagles were my angels along for the ride with me and their presence pushed me along the course.(More on this at the end). I felt great again and I was over my little down patch. I made good progress down the canyon and trudged up the other side. I was also happy that I had reached the half way point of the race and would be seeing my peeps at Michigan Bluff aid station.

MICHIGAN BLUFF

When I arrived at Michigan Bluff, I was greeted by hundreds of people who were cheering, volunteering. I hooked up with my crew and took in some quick fuel. I felt pretty good all things considered. I stayed for a few and then I was on my way to Volcano Canyon and and the Forest hill aid station. From there I would be picking up Ken and running the rest of the race with a pacer. The run from Michigan Bluff was pretty uneventful, just a couple of tough climbs and witnessing one of the more impressive athletes around. Amy-Palmeiro Winters is a amputee runner who runs Ultra's with a prosthetic leg. She is the 2010 Sullivan award winner(given to the top amateur athlete) and is as tough as it comes. To run a race like this with a prosthetic leg is incredible. The terrain, the climbs, the descent I find it impossible to comprehend how she does it. I guess she never takes no for an answer and always gets the job done. She is incredible and looked incredible as she breezed past me like I was taking a stroll in the park. Amy is a power of example for everybody to stop whining, get off your biscuit and go ahead and risk it.

FORESTHILL MILE 62

Ken came down from Forest hill and picked me up about a mile from the aid station. We talked, I told him I was feeling pretty good, and then we started to run into the aid station. Again there hundreds of people cheering and lending support and I felt good again. We met with Magda who went throughout the checklist of things I needed. Magda was great and such a positive light. We quickly got situated and then me and Ken were off into the fading light. we would be running the next 38 miles in darkness and I was looking forward to it.

As we descended into the trail it got dark very quickly. The terrain was fairly gentle and I was going along quite well for about 4 or 5 miles. I then started to get tired and a bit cranky. My energy was sapped and I wanted to walk more than run. Ken was patient with me and suggested I get some caffeine in me. I was reluctant to take in caffeine because it sometimes does a number on my stomach. I was having no issue whatsoever up to this point with my stomach but if I didn't do something this was going to be a long thirty miles. I took in a caffeine gel and within 10 minutes I was feeling pretty good. From the Dardenelles aid station to the Rucky Chucky aid station is where I did some of my best running. I felt great and we ran at a pretty good pace. We basically only walked the uphills for a good stretch and made up a lot of time. We were picking off runners and it felt pretty good to be running this well late in the game. However I started feeling something in my right foot that I knew was going to be a problem later on. The beginning of a huge deep blister on the bottom of my right foot had started to develop. It wasn't stopping me from running but it was increasingly getting worse. I knew I would have to get it looked at but I decided to wait until after the Rucky Chucky River Crossing. Good, bad or different it would have to wait until then because that was where my last pair of socks and sneakers were located. The running was amazing though. We were under a bright full moon and ran a lot of the course along the American River. The trails were skinny and one bad tumble meant a bad tumble straight down the mountain into the river. Didn't want to go there so I maintained my vigilance.

RUCKY CHUCKY RIVER CROSSING

The Rucky Chucky river crossing is a section that runners usually cross the river on foot. Because of the late snow melt and heavy volume of water we had to cross the river by boat. I was secretly hoping to cross the river for the sheer experience of it but maybe it was for the best. We made it across without a hitch, again the volunteers were amazing and I made it to the aid station. A podiatrist looked at my foot and was pretty impressed by the size and depth of the blister. He said he would do the best he could and tape me up and then sent me on my way. He was great, fixing me up and then I was on my way to Green Gate aid station. It is about a two mile grind uphill from the river to Green Gate. It gave me a chance to test out my foot and to rest a bit while I walked up the hill. I still felt pretty good but my enthusiasm was starting to wane. This was going to be hard work from here on in and the toughest 20 miles I had ever thought of running. We got to Green Gate and lo and behold it was Magda. She had walked down from the parking area to see me at Green Gate. It was unexpected and a great surprise. I assured her I was good, even though I wasn't and that I was going to do it!

BROWN'S BAR MILE 89

The ten miles from Green Gate to Brown's bar was pretty tough. I was running ok, but my quads were shot and it felt like someone was sticking an ice pick in my foot. We were running though and making progress, until I fell into a hole and rolled my ankle. I got that white hot flash of pain and I thought that my race was over. I must have scared some bears and wildlife because I let out a blood curdling scream. Kenny was scared too but I quickly started moving forward and assured him and myself that I would be Ok. Until I did it again about two minutes later. It wasn't as bad this time but I was worrying when was my luck going to run out. I changed headlamps and then moved in front of Ken. The trail was slow going until we made it to Brown's Bar. Brown's Bar is a pretty unique place. Rock music is blaring, drinks are flowing, and there were a few interesting characters roaming the aid station. Daybreak was just happening and everybody in the aid station was still in great spirits, except for me. My main man Ken felt so good that he had a shot of Jeagermister. I was in the dumps and not feeling it anymore. I was in one of those celebrated lows and I was unsure if I was going to get out of it. Every step hurt and I still had ten miles to go. Ken was doing his best to help me but it wasn't working. At this point I was pretty sure that I was going to finish, I just didn't know what kind of shape I was going to be in. It is only four miles from Brown's Bar to Highway 49 aid station but it felt like an eternity. It was slow going and I was struggling. The downhills were very tough on my feet and I was having tough time mentally. I knew I was going to finish, but I was still struggling. We started to run a bit and then there was a long climb up to Highway 49. Again I was passed by Amy as she blasted up the climb. Again she was a power of example to me because I knew if I was hurting, she was hurting twice as bad. We slogged the rest of the highway and finally came to Highway 49. That four mile stretch was def the toughest stretch for me in the race.

HIGHWAY 49

Ken had suggested to Magda that it would be a great idea if she ran in the rest of the way with me. In my tunnel vision throughout the race, I hadn't thought about including her in pacing me. I was so glad Ken had his wits about him and included her in the race. I know it meant a lot to her and it did to me. So Magda was going to be taking me in the last 6 1/2 miles. When I came stumbling into the aid station, she must have thought to herself maybe this wasn't such a great idea. I was not my normal cheery self and was in quite a bit of pain. I made a detour into a porta potty and didn't sit down fearing I wouldn't get back up. I was quick through the station, got what I needed and moved along. I warned Magda beforehand that I was hurting a little bit and I may not do a lot of talking, and that I had a lot of work to do. She was very understanding and excepted her lot. I was in quite a bit of pain but I started to move a little better. The views and scenery were amazing and the sun was coming up in earnest. The running was fairly good and we made it to No Hands Bridge aid station. The views were spectacular and from there you know you are almost home.

AUBURN

My spirits were def picking up and we ran for most of the way until we made the long climb out of No Hands bridge to Robie Point. It was steep a climb, steeper than I thought but we made it without much of a hitch. We finally left the Western State Trail and were on the streets of Auburn for the last mile. I would have felt great but there was still another steep ass hill we had to climb on the road. Ken came down and met us and took a few pictures. The elation was starting to overcome me now. Even though I was in intense pain, I knew that I had done something I never thought I would be able to do. I started to get quite and introspective again and started thinking about all that has happened to me, good and bad. As we wound our way through the streets i could see the stadium. I had seen this stadium before in video but it was quite something else in person. It was just an ordinary high school stadium, but it just as easily could have been the Roman Coliseum. Tears of joy started to surface and I started to think of Owen, Gwendolyn and all my SMA angels. The pain was gone from my legs and I didn't want this lap to end. I felt such pride as they announced my name, where I am from, and what I do for a living. They also announced that I was running on behalf of Owen Simmons and to help defeat SMA. My heart was full and my journey was complete.

There are so many people I want to thank who helped make this a journey of a lifetime. Again I am surrounded by the best of people and I firmly believe is a direct reflection on oneself. Surround yourself with winners and a winner you shall be. I want to thank Claudia and Gillian Sampson for being the most selfless, helpful, and giving people I know. NONE of this would have been possible without there help and for that I am eternally grateful. Andy and Heather, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for being a power of example and sharing your sweet angel with everybody. Heather you told me during my run to please talk with Owen and to tell him how much his mommy missed him. I did have that running conversation with him Heather and I can assure you he knows how much you love and miss him. As I was talking to him it was in the Canyons when I took a minute to compose myself. All these beautiful birds just flying around, there are no coincidences. Thank you to Gwendolyn, Victoria, and Bill Strong, my new friends from the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation. You too are a power of example and I hope someday to be half the people you are. I am proud to call you friends.Thank you to Ken for dropping everything last minute and accompanying me on my journey. You made a huge difference and instilled so much confidence. I hope to someday repay the favor to you. And to Magda, for all you have done for me, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are a special woman and I consider myself lucky to be part of your life. Finally to Owen. I know we only met a few times, but would you did for me could never be repaid. You have given me a gift, a gift that keeps on giving and one I wish to share with everybody. The body may die, but the human spirit lives on forever. What I did this weekend would not have been possible without you buddy and I am eternally grateful. Please say hi to Beau and Dempsey as you RUN along with them.

Gordy Ainsleigh was true when he said you will arrive in Auburn a different man. I may not be able to quantify it now but I know there is something different. Maybe I don't need to know what it is or will ever know. All I do know is that I have been able to participate in a fantastic journey, a mental, physical, and spiritual journey. This buckle was earned through blood, sweat and tears. It is something that I will not soon forget.

Fundraiser for 100miles4Owen

On Thursday June 3rd, we celebrated the life and memory of Owen Simmons, Andy and Heather Simmons SMA angel. The celebration took place at Lebeau's Tavern in New Bedford and a good time was had by all. Clam Cakes and Clam Chowder were on the menu as well as good times, good friends, and inspiration.

We were there to raise money and awareness on behalf of the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation(our new friends from Cali) and to help kick SMA in the groin! I was able to see old friends and met quite a few new friends. It was truly a special night in remembrance of a special boy.

As the evening wore on, my good friend David Conceicao became the master of ceremonies and quickly had everyone grabbing their stomachs in laughter. David is a very special friend and I am very fortunate to have friends like this in my life.

I would be negligent in my duties if I didn't recognize special people in my life who made the night a smashing success. Gillian and Claudia Sampson have been so instrumental in helping me along the way. Anything I need, they drop whatever they are doing and are there for me. This fundraising drive would be nowhere if it wasn't for them. I am eternally grateful for the help and compassion. I would also like to thank Magda for all her help and for procuring some great raffle items for the fundraiser. Magda is always willing to go the extra mile and has also been deeply effected by Owen's story.

Lastly I would like to thank Andy and Heather and especially Owen. Andy and Heather are powers of examples for me and I am grateful for sharing their little Owen with all of us. How they have handled this adversity is awe inspiring and gives me direction in how I handle adversity in my life. There were beautiful pictures of Owen all over the Tavern and were a constant reminder how powerful his life and spirit were, even though he was only here a short while. He will live in our hearts and spirit forever and we are forever grateful. Thank you, you are missed Owen but will never be forgotten!

New Bedford High School WILD club car wash

As many of you know, I am a Police Officer in the city of New Bedford and have had the privilege of being assigned to New Bedford High School as a School Resource Officer for the past nine years. It can be quite a challenge at times but it is also I believe the most rewarding job a Police Officer can have. As a graduate of NBHS(1987 good grief) it gives me great pleasure and enormous pride to let you know about what a great group of students did this weekend for SMA and the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation.

A teacher(Lisha Cabral) who happens to be a long time friend of mine, helped form a group of students into a club called WILD(We Imagine Life Differently). This student groups goals are to change the culture of the school, to empower students, and to help make a difference in our community. WILD had heard about 100miles4Owen and wished to help raise money and awareness for SMA. They did this without me asking and did it all on their own. WILD decided on a car wash to help the cause.

The car wash this past Saturday was a huge success. Approx. 25 kids showed up and donated their whole afternoon to help find a cure for SMA. They raised approx. $1500 in little more than three hours and it is my understanding more moolah is coming in. More importantly they helped educate the public about this terrible disease which for some reason is not widely known. Take that SMA, grass roots baby! It made me so proud to be affiliated with NBHS. We as "old people" are always quick to find fault with young people when they mess up, but sometimes we forget how to praise our youth when it is so justly deserved. I addressed the kids at the end of the car wash and told them how proud I was of them. I could feel myself becoming emotional because what the kids from WILD did was reinforce my faith in young people. So to the WILD club, my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to you.

McNaughton Ultra Vermont

In order to participate in the Western States 100, one of the requirements is to volunteer a minimum of eight hours at another Ultramarathon. Volunteers are the life blood of all Ultra's and make them possible. I decided that I would volunteer at the McNaughton Ultra in Pittsfield Vt without knowing what I would be getting myself into. I am fortunate and grateful that I somehow got caught up in the madness that is the McNaughton.

I contacted race director(super cool dude) Andy Weinberg and offered my services. Andy invited me up and let me know that the race consisted of 200 miles, 150 miles, 100 miles, and a thirty mile "fun run". Because the Western is coming up in less than two months, I wanted to do the "fun run" as a training run. I don't know if fun is the appropriate word.

On the drive up with my girlfriend Magda(her first Ultra), torrential rain started as soon as we got in Vermont. The race had actually started on Thursday for the 200 and 150 milers but the 100 and 30 would start on Saturday morning. Forecast for the day was cold, rainy, windy, with possible snow showers at night. For once the forecasters were correct. Absolute nastiness. All we needed were locusts and the apocalypse would have been upon us. After a brief pre-race meeting, the horn sounded and we were off. It then started to rain for what it seemed the rest of the day. As Andy beautifully described the course, it was "a real ass-kicker." Straight up a mountain for approx. 5.5 miles followed by 4.5 miles down, making a ten mile loop.

After about an hour of running, the course was a total quagmire. I think I still have Vermont mud in my toes! It was ridiculous but just the ass kicking I needed. I learned alot about mental toughness in this race. Myself and Magda finished our three loops in a little over 7 hours and had a great time doing so. I also found out that you could actually "ski" on mud. Magda ran an incredibly tough course for her first Ultra, an amazing accomplishment. After we had finished our race, the real fun was about to begin.

We returned to the race after showering up at the hotel and started helping out with the other Ultra runners who were still out there in this mess. That is when I discovered what its like to be a true ultra runner. Mental toughness was on full display. Words cannot describe how miserable it was out in the elements. Runners would come in from a loop and would look like death warmed over. Shivering, teeth chattering, but for the most part in good spirits. What struck me was how the men and women runners would try as best they could to warm up/dry off and then after a quick break, venture back onto the course. Mind you these were runners who had already been out in the elements for about two days. I was totally amazed and in awe. I hope to find that place within myself someday. When I left, a runner(Ryan Dexter) had completed 180 miles and was going back into the breach at 10:00pm.

It was a pleasure meeting Andy and all the other people affiliated with the McNaughton Ultra. Check out there website, peakraces.com If your up a for a sick adventure and your willing to challenge yourself, look no further.

Memorable Monday

I was fortunate enough to be able to run the Boston Marathon this year. It was truly a remarkable day, a day to remember. I was treating the run basically as a training run for the Western States but things just turned out perfect.

Before the race started, I was overcome with this tremendous amount of gratitude. Approx., three years to the date, my life had become quite unmanageable. I was quite unhappy and lacked a sense of who I really was and what I wanted to do with my life. It is amazing in such a short time how things have changed. Certain people were put in my life and now there is no holding back. Instead of existing in life, I'm living!

If you have never been to a Boston Marathon, it is a truly amazing spectacle. The crowds, the music, the fellow runners, it is truly amazing. I felt so strong throughout the whole race and seemed to be floating along the race. I am more of a Clydesdale than Thoroughbred but for one day I felt fast. I know for certain that I had my guardian angels with me. Everytime I lace up the sneaks, I think of Owen and all little babies with SMA. Thoughts of Owen and my newest friend, Gwendolyn were with me throughout Boston. I also had alot of thoughts and memories of my dog Beau, who passed away in December.

I am a very grateful man and can't wait until the Western States. Till next time.....