MO-AR TREK

St. Louis Girls on the Run 5k - May 2009

2009-05-17T16:46:00.024-05:00

It was a wonderful day to run in St. Louis' Forrest Park today. Robin Rivard (STL-GOTR Race Director) and Jill Indovino (STL-GOTR Council Director) were kind enough to extend me an invitation to run their 5k, which is the culmination of their springtime Girls on the Run 24-week program.

It was really fun to meet the GOTR Family and helping set-up and takedown event material before and after the race. They also gave me the honor of presenting trophies to each of the overall and age group winners. What a blast!

The best part of the whole day was watching the youngsters enjoy the fruits of their training as they tackled the 3.1-mile course through the park along with the 1-mile fun run participants. If you’re ever in need of an energy boost I recommend tracking down the next GOTR event in your area and going along for a run with the kids – it’s great!

Thank you, Robin and Jill, for the generous invitation; it really was a special day for me.

Below I’ve posted some pictures & videos that help illustrate what a great time everyone had today…under a sunny, cloudless sky, and 65 degree temperatures.

Setting up this early morning with the guys:

The check-in is ready to handle the 3,500+ participants!

High five, girls!!!

Council Director, Jill, cheers on the runners as they near the finish...

We're nearing the finish...

These kids know how to celebrate!

Congratulations to all of the finishers today - great job!

Best for now,

Jason

Vancouver, BC - The North Shore Enduro with Club Fat Ass

2009-05-11T03:11:00.020-05:00

The North Shore Enduro, From a Missouri Perspective…

It’s going to be tough to do the North Shore Enduro justice. That is a statement about more than just the race, too. The peripheral activities magnified the Enduro to a level of excitement and fun I’ve never experienced in running – seriously. You’re probably already sensing it, so I’ll just say it: I’m now spoiled forever on trails. Now, this is not a bad thing, this is a good thing. I learned a ton about running this weekend in only a few hours of being on the trails in Lynn Canyon.

I witnessed some of the highest level of running prowess you’ll find on planet earth (no joke), coupled with some of the most friendly, accommodating and hospitable people you can imagine. Throw in rushing creek waters; 600ft per loop of stair master 1,000,000 level climbs, roots, rocks and massive 50ft+(?) tall cedar trees – now you’ve got yourself a running event!

The winner, Mr. Gary Robins (new course record holder), ran 9 loops (over 40 miles) in 5hrs 34min 36sec and overcame approximately 6,000ft of climb. Let's call it about 8:20 per mile - INSANE FAST on this roller coaster ride. Well done Gary!

The North Shore Enduro is hosted by a wonderful group of ultra runners, Club Fat Ass, and they are based in Vancouver. I “met” Club Fat Ass through Andrea Reynolds, proprietor of Running Chics in Republic, MO. It is a really long story, so just trust me that I’m lucky to know these fine people – I truly mean that. Oh, and there’s a link to their site here on my blog (just click on the Club Fat Ass logo in the lower left corner of this page) and you can read all about them – they’re fantastic and I encourage you to check them out. If you’re looking for a good technical fabric running shirt, look no further than Club Fat Ass. It’s only $25(Canadian) + shipping and it’s the best money can buy, if you ask me.

So here’s the situation for the Enduro:

Format: 6hr run (go as far as you can in the time-limit), but you can stop any time you want (these are easy going, laid back people – easy to like)
The Course: Lynn Canyon in the stunning North Shore area – a trail loop that’s about 7.25k
Difficulty: ok, that’s subjective, but the trail offered everything from forestry roads, to perfectly groomed & wide trails, to some of the most technical roots, rocks, stumps, etc. that this Ozark Foothills runner has ever seen. And I already mentioned the 600ft climb, which went from a beautiful rushing riverbank to partially up the side of a mountain. All of this in only 7.25k – AWESOME! My Garmin added up 11,900ft of elevation change during my run (that's for 3 loops, so nearly 4,000ft per loop).

I only did a bit more than 3 loops in about 2hrs 24mins (just over 14 miles). Not too shabby given the terrain and it’s my first long run back since MO-AR TREK. But this wasn’t about a race for me, it was about being with some new friends, and my new friend Kristie was on the trail with Lauren too!

Some of the pictures tell the rest of the story. But if any of you reading out here ever get a chance to go to Vancouver, DON’T FORGET your running gear!

Jason

Why you'd do it...

2009-05-07T00:48:00.003-05:00

I don't get the question as much now that I actually 'did' it - run from Kirkwood, MO to Bentonville, AR, that is. But before I ran, I was often asked "Why?".

I would be remiss if I didn't post this picture.

Girls on the Run of Queen City, out of the Springfield/Republic, MO area, sent me a gift today! And WOW, what a gift. Several of the 5th graders from GOTR Director Trish Hopkins' Queen City council actually took the time to make me hand-written thank you cards and a custom poster!

It's difficult to explain how something like unsuspected thank you notes from 5th graders could give me such a huge lift in spirits, but I'm sure you can imagine.

One of the funniest things about the notes: a consistency in their messages. All of the girls had written that they very sincerely appreciated our help for their council and nearly all wrote that I AM CRAZY for running 300+ miles.

I emailed a note to Trish that I agreed, it was crazy - but the girls well being is WORTH IT.

Thanks GOTR Queen City. I'm looking forward to tuning in to heroic epics of your own someday - whether they be epic runs or otherwise.

Sincerely,

Jason

What happens after 317 miles?

2009-05-05T21:31:00.005-05:00

It's a good question. The answer, at least from me, is "I have no idea".

Many thanks to my friend, Roger Hill, for prompting me to write a "1-week" follow up note.

I have to say, there's definitely a coming down period. It was fun to be out on the road every day. I only had to worry about the steps in front of me. It was all that mattered at the time and a common demoninator that stripped away any 'uneccessary' extras. When faced with days of running, making progress is really all you concern yourself with. Quite liberating in a way, and I recommend it to anyone reading this post.

I'm feeling pretty good (thanks for asking, Roger!). I've tried to take advice from the people who know best and rest my left leg a bit. Within the last week I've had two 1-hour volleyball sessions and a 2-hour hike on a nice trail near St. Louis.

Yesterday I actually went for a run. Felt pretty good, honestly, and I'm super excited to be headed to Vancouver, BC, Canada this weekend to 'run' in a Club Fat Ass event dubbed the "North Shore Enduro". It's a 6-hour race on a loop course that is about 7-8k in length.

I've never been to Vancouver, but I know it's next to some serious mountains. I'm not a great trail runner (or great 'any other type of runner', for that matter), but I'm very glad to be meeting some friends of mine, Kristie C., Ferg H., and Sibylle T. - plus some others.

Even if I have to hike/walk the North Shore Enduro, it will have been worth the flight to B.C. I love the outdoors, mountains, and tall evergreens. It's going to be AWESOME.

I don't have any races planned in the STL area in the near term, save the Girls on the Run 5k in St. Louis at Forrest Park on 5/17/09 (Sunday). If anyone is interested, it's a fun race starting at the Muny in Forrest Park - and I encourage you to come out in support of Girls on the Run.

If anyone is interested in a run near STL in the near future, by all means, leave a post out here and I'm most likely to take you up on an invite.

Would love to hear from you all on how your training and races are going if you care to comment in a post.

Best for now,

Jason

Numbers & Such

2009-04-27T19:00:00.007-05:00

Many people have asked for stats on the MO-AR TREK. I’ve included information below that may help answer some questions I’ve fielded.

The best I can do is providing the information that my GPS watch (Garmin Forerunner 305) recorded during MO-AR TREK, plus a couple of little ‘anecdotal’ tid-bits Lauren and I thought of. I really don’t know how accurate the Garmin is. I haven’t researched that, and I don’t plan to because MO-AR TREK is about helping Girls on the Run, not about racing or results. Besides, had it been a race, I would have been the 1st AND last place finisher! Nonetheless, I do like numbers and data, so I find it interesting as well.

The clock stops for no one (sort of). MO-AR TREK was not a continuous run - I'm pretty crazy, but not THAT crazy.

From the start of the run for each day until the final mileage was achieved for that day the clock ran 100% of the time, whether running, walking, changing shoes, picking my nose, etc. The clock was stopped after running for the day and restarted at the beginning of the next day’s run.

Prepare to be unimpressed, especially you faster runners!

Total Distance: 316.86 (509.94 kilometers)
Total Running Days: 9
Avg. Miles per day: 35.21
Avg. Minutes per mile: 12:37
Avg. Miles per hour: 4.7
Fastest Mile (minutes/mile): 8:12
Slowest Mile (minutes/mile): 37:04
Fastest Pace total day (minutes/mile): 10:47 (Day 2 – 38.08 miles - Union, MO to Leasburg, MO)
Slowest Pace total day (minutes/mile): 14:31 (Day 7 – 36.17 miles - Springfield, MO to Verona, MO)
Longest Run: 40 miles (Day 5 - Hazelgreen, MO to Niangua, MO)
Shortest Run: 21.42 miles (Day 9 – Seligman Hollow, MO to Bentonville, AR)
Calories Consumed: 44,429
Weight Change: -3lbs
Avg. Heart Rate: 133 bpm
Elevation Ascent: +31,813ft
Elevation Descent: -31,108ft
Total Elevation Change: +705ft
Pairs of shoes rotated: 5
Blisters: 0 (seriously, I’m even amazed at this one. The heat never got too bad and I used a lot of petroleum jelly on my feet – seems to have done the trick! Plus, good shoe fit is KEY)
Avg. Attempts for Lauren to ‘get it right’ with the tape on my left leg: 3
Dead Roadside Opossums: 38
Number of sports drink & water gallons consumed: 16.5
Favorite recovery food or drink: Chocolate Milk with additional skim milk powder added (for extra protein post run)

Let me know if there are others you think of that I might be able to answer for you. I'll be glad to provide the info if I have it. Just drop a comment out here and I'll repsond with a comment so that anyone else interested can see the info.

All the best for now,

Jason

Day 9 - 21.42 Miles - Seligman Hollow, MO to Bentonville, AR

2009-04-26T19:25:00.021-05:00

Seligman Hollow, MO - The beginning of the end:

It was a beautiful day for running! Temperatures were lower and winds, while gusting at times, were more cross than head on. It was a nice change from the previous couple of days. Knowing you're near the finish, as in any run, can be a big boost too. Equally as big a lift was having my younger brother, Jon along for the day. Here's a video of us starting the day:

Jon and I had a few tough hills in the early miles. I decided to push it up this one a bit. It's debatable who actually won the race to the top, but I think I did. However, I know Jon took it easy on me since it was "my day". Oh, and Jon didn't wait long at the top of the hill to turn on the gas and remind me that he could have blasted me. Thanks bro, for letting me think for a moment I had some gumption!

I have to admit, I felt a little guilty that I didn't have at least a full marathon distance to cover on the last day. However, 21.42 miles was a welcome change from the grueling 35 to 40 mile runs I'd been managing for the previous 8 days. I decided to make sure I put in a good 1/2 Marathon time, assuming I could muster one, and then just enjoy the last 8 miles on cruise control. That worked out really well.

More milestones:

We crossed the Missouri/Arkansas border about 1.5 miles in to the run. From there, we set our sights on the 300-mile mark, which was 4.76 miles in to the run. Eventually, we even broke through the 500k point at 15.76 miles into the run. It was really fun to have so many big marks land all in one run.

Friends:

Just before we reached the 500k mark, I was joined by Kevin O'Neill (my best bud). Kevin even ran a stretch with me! Kev told me he never doubted for a moment that I would complete this run when I told him about it months ago. Thanks Kev, your confidence in me means a lot!

A modern day hero:
Lisa is the council director of Central Missouri Girls on the Run in Clinton, MO. A few people over the last 9 days have accused me of being a hero, but I pale in comparison to real heroes. Lisa is a real hero. In fact, in my book, she's a super hero. An accomplished marathoner herself, Lisa ran 5 or 6 miles of the final day of MO-AR TREK with me just to show her appreciation for what we've been able to do for her council. Lisa works with young girls every year to improve their esteem, their fitness, and their understanding of their own aptitude. Lisa makes a difference in our kid's lives every day. Thank you Lisa, for joining me for a run & to help us celebrate the completion of MO-AR TREK. You are truly amazing! You can bet you'll see Lauren and me in Clinton, MO in the future to visit you and your GOTR participants. YOU are my hero.

A sprint to the finish:

As for the finish, it wasn't just me who deserved to cross that line. Lauren and I ran the last bit together. This is significant, because Lauren would never run, unless in a life threatening debacle with a carnivorous animal. As we neared the finish Lauren turned to me and asked if I would sprint to the finish. So we did. This embedded video shows our last push. Sorry, Lauren, for turning on the speed too much - but at least I did wait for you to cross through the tape with me! :D

Celebrate!:

We, of course, would not have come all this way without celebrating. It wasn't an over the top party. I'm glad about that because it's not really my style. Instead, we have tasty & healthy homemade food and fun games to play, like washers! What a blast! However, the party didn't even last until dark because Lauren and I were so darned tired that we crashed a bit early. All in all, it seemed that everyone had a great time. Thanks, Mom & Charlie, for hosting such a nice party.

More to come:

There are some things that are worth fighting for. I believe that the health of our children is one such cause. This was easily the most difficult task I've ever taken on in my entire life. It was worth every step and all the pain and frustration of the journey. In my mind I'm sure I "quit" a million times over the course of 9 days, but I never voiced it out loud. I just figured out a way to keep going. I'm not a gifted athlete, I'm an average guy. Before MO-AR TREK, I've never run more than about 80 miles in 1 week. I'm not fast either, but I learned that when I believe in something worth fighting for I'm willing to go the distance no matter how long it takes. There are many others out there willing to fight too. Consider that with your help we've raised over $6,300 to be shared among 3 Missouri Girls on the Run councils. There's a lot more on the way because several people pledged an amount per mile completed for the MO-AR TREK. I'm hopeful that we can get to $8,000 plus. Thanks for supporting this cause and the Girls on the Run councils in Missouri!

Most of all, thank you Lauren, for helping me reach my goal. We did it together, and I'm proud of what we've accomplished for ourselves and for Girls on the Run. You were with me every step of the way, never doubted me, and always supported this crazy idea 110%. We really are best friends, and have demonstrated through MO-AR TREK that love is a verb, not a noun.

I'll be making another post later today. I'm a "numbers" person and I know many of my ultrarunner friends will want to know some of the stats. Things like elevation change and other factoids are helpful in understanding the scale of difficulty of long runs. I'm happy to share that a little later today as Lauren and I make our way back to St. Louis - in a CAR.

Please know that I received and loved EVERY ONE of the comments you all posted out here on the blog. I'm sorry I couldn't respond to all of them, but know that they helped - each and every one of them. Feel free to post more questions and comments as thoughts come to mind and I'll be happy to respond.

All the best from Bentonville, AR,

Jason

The home stretch

2009-04-26T13:56:00.002-05:00

One last tape job ought to do it! Jason is on the last three miles. It's been a long journey. Many highs, many lows. He conquered every mile, every yard, every foot, every step. He doesn't have many to go now until that frost brewed victory beer.

The Girls are on the Run again

2009-04-26T12:16:00.002-05:00

We welcomed Lisa Lee to the clan today. Lisa is the director of the Girls on the Run council in Clinton, Missouri. She is helping Jason through these last miles to the finish. Her work doesn't stop here though. She will take these experiences and continue to teach Clinton's young girls about self esteem, confidence, and healthy lifestyles. It's people like Lisa that give our youth opportunities to succeed. Lisa, you are a hero, too!

500K

2009-04-26T11:55:00.002-05:00

He did it, Kristie! 500 kilometers! Now only 5 miles until home.

But the Finish Line Party doesn't start until 2 p.m. so it's going to be a slow 5 miles :)

Need we say more?

2009-04-26T11:20:00.001-05:00

This street sign says it all.

Yikes!

2009-04-26T10:27:00.003-05:00

I'm not gonna lie. Driving over this little bridge in the support van scared me a bit.

Creek crossing

2009-04-26T10:20:00.002-05:00

The farm roads added a little fun to the trip today. Farm Road 1050 runs along a creek. That meant running through creek crossings. A change of shoes later and we're back on the road.

Milestones

2009-04-26T09:40:00.005-05:00

We made it to Day 9! Jason started the day by clipping off about 4 miles without a problem. Not long after we started we crossed the Missouri-Arkansas border! We're in Razorback country now!

Today, Jason is joined by his younger brother, Jon (pictured with Jason at the border marker). Jon is riding along on his bike and giving Jason some much needed company on these lonely country roads.

We not only hit the border, but we also crossed the 300 mile mark!! We're on the home stretch :)

Speaking of milestones, we are $61 dollars away from raising $6,000 for Girls on the Run! Thank you to everyone who is helping to provide opportunities for young girls. Who wants to be the one to put us over $6,000????

Day 8 - 37.01 Miles - Verona, MO to Seligman Hollow, MO

2009-04-25T21:15:00.005-05:00

“Be careful what you ask for”. I’ve been warned on that one a hundred times. I got to cracking off at the mouth this morning (not meaning anything sarcastic when I spoke of the song of the wind) and I got rewarded with a 30 mile per hour headwind for most of the day. Killer.

So I walked a lot today. Probably 5 miles or more of my 37 were walked. But you know what? There’s no shame in that because we’ve covered 295.25 miles since last Saturday! All told, I think we’ll have walked less than 15 miles of what’s shaping up to be about 315.5 miles of a MO-AR TREK run over 9 days.

Also killer, but in a positive way: my crew. Today included Chief Lauren and my best friend, Kevin O’Neill. Kevin and I have done far crazier things together than run for 9 days to cover 300+ miles, but that’s a story for another blog on another day ;)

Tomorrow will bring some big milestones: The 300 Mile Mark, the 500k Mark (for my CFA friends!), the crossing of the boarder (finally) from Missouri to Arkansas, and of course, the finish line.

Tomorrow will truly be a great day, and I look forward to seeing everyone that is able to make it to the finish line party! I know many of you will have to “attend in spirit” and we’ll be thinking of you for sure.

I’m off to bed to rest up for the morning. I’m getting a lot of notes from friends saying, “hey, tomorrow will be ‘easy’, it’s only 21.3 miles”. Ha ha ha you all – very funny. I don’t believe I’ve ever run an easy 21.3 miler, especially in the Ozark foothills! But I do agree that 21.3 sounds a lot better than the 35 or better we’ve had to average to get here this fast. Let’s not count our chickens just yet. We still have 21.3 to bring it home!

Thanks for all the well wishes for the 9th and final day of MO-AR TREK,

Jason

A lite snack

2009-04-25T14:15:00.003-05:00

This one's for you, Roger. It's not roadside pizza delivery, but it will have to do :)

Nothing says health and fitness like a double quarter pounder with cheese. When you're burning 6,000 calories a day, I don't think it much matters.

Off roading

2009-04-25T11:59:00.003-05:00

Jason decided to take a romp through the meadow. Ok, it was a little short cut, but at over 260 miles, I think we'll let it slide :)

Divine intervention

2009-04-25T10:31:00.003-05:00

Jason must have angered Notus, the greek god of the south wind cause he is giving us all he's got. Nonetheless, Jason is trucking on.

Reinforcements

2009-04-25T09:10:00.000-05:00

The reinforcement has arrived! Kevin has taken the wheel of the support van. Jason is around mile 13 right now and fighting a mighty headwind. The temperature is cool and the cloud cover is keeping the sun at bay. He's still putting one foot in front of the other.

On the road again

2009-04-25T07:45:00.002-05:00

Day 8 has begun and it's a great morning for running. The temperature is low and the sun is not yet beating down on us. Jason just completed his first mile and said, "It's early but everything is feeling good." Holly is on her way to today's finish to pick up Jason's long-time friend, Kevin. Kevin will join me on the support crew today. Holly needs to go home to prepare the finish line.

We're heading into some really rural areas today so my internet signal might konk out on me. I'll post as much as I can as Jason makes his way toward Washburn, Missouri.

Sing me back home...

2009-04-25T03:54:00.000-05:00

I don't necessarily consider myself to be a 'country music fan'. At least not today's rock style country. Don't get me wrong, it's well enough, but doesn't float my musical boat most of the time.

What I do like: Merle Haggard. Merle has comforted me in times of great lonliness and despair on more occasions that I care to count. He has a song I really like and seems appropriate for today and tomorrow as I make my way to Bentonville from Verona, MO. It's titled "Sing me back home".

Check it out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Yl6RJRyTwQ

It's a pretty sad song, but I'm not sad. It just reminds me that we've all been in a 'tough spot' before, but you can dig out. Just take a look at Merle, who by his own admission should still be incarcerated. He dug out. I will too.

You have a lot of time to find yourself out here on the road, to remember where you came from. Also to think about where you're going.

There's also the wind, trees, the hot, the cold, the pain and the joy. I'm out here enjoying the elements, one step at a time. I always said I was an outdoors person :)

Wind & trees - sing me a song today. Sing me back home, with a song I used to hear...

But on my parting note for this morning, I want to give a shout out to my buddy Wayne Robinson. Wayne ran with me a lot to help me get ready for MO-AR TREK. Thanks for your help Wayne, and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Please tune in later for Lauren's wonderful updates as we make more progress towards Arkansas.

Best wishes for everyone today,

Jason

Day 7 - 36.17 Miles - Springfield, MO to Verona, MO

2009-04-24T17:54:00.000-05:00

If I didn't believe in angels before MO-AR TREK, I do now! Amy Luke is one such angel. I can't say thanks enough to her. She really worked my leg into running shape this morning at 7am, and enabled a 36-mile run today. I never even had to re-wrap. You're a real pro and a heck of a nice person. THANK YOU AMY!

Mom, you already knew you were an angel, but I'm so glad you're finally out here. Love ya!

However, it was more than a couple of angels that showed up today. Laura, Allie, Jackie & Sara - all Missouri State students in Springfield - joined me for the first 6.3 miles this morning. My friend Lisa, who is also Laura's mom followed us along in her car too! I've heard that lighting can't strike twice, but apparentely angels can appear as many times as they wish. These ladies came BACK out (after talking their way out of Fitness class this morining) to rejoin me from miles 17 to 29. Hey, I'm not advocating skipping class, but it was FITNESS CLASS, after all.

You girls are rock stars! I could never have made it 36 miles today without you. I owe you all one! And I want to hear from you when you finally get over that bad case of “I’m not sure when I’ll sign up for my ½ marathon”. You almost ran one today! Piece of cake for you all.

In between Amy & the MSU rock stars, I was joined by a couple of Girls on the Run heroes: Trish Hopkins & Andrea Reynolds. Trish is the area Girls on the Run council director and Andrea owns a women's apparel company (Running Chics) that donates a portion of their proceeds to Trish's council. AWESOME! These ladies helped me navigate Republic, MO (just west of Springfield). I wansn't 100% today, as expected, but Trish and Andrea kept me moving.

It was a hot, windy and difficult run, but the terrain flattened out substantially today. That helped quite a bit. The going is getting tough, but the end is so close. I can't quit now - we've come too far. I'll be out on the road in the AM to do battle again, mostly with myself.

I should have been a coal miner, I am having to dig pretty darn deep right now.

My body is tired, but my spirit isn't broken. My good friend, Kristie Congram, told me 'courage isn't when you aren't scared, it's when you are scared, but you do it anyway'. Well, I'm finding courage out here on the road and I'm really lucky to have Lauren and the army of angels to help me through :)

All the best from Verona, MO-

Jason

P.S. Two things worth mentioning - we crossed the 250-mile mark (400k) today. Also, Charlie, THANK YOU, Lauren and I would never have made it this far without you for the last 3 days!

A wise man once said...

2009-04-24T16:28:00.000-05:00

Git 'er done!

And that is just what Jason is doing. He's putting his head down and gutting out these last few miles. He's almost to 35 for the day. Go, Jason, go!

These shoes are made for walking...er running...

2009-04-24T14:25:00.000-05:00

...and that's just what he'll do.

Jason is rotating three pairs of shoes as he treks through Missouri. Those shoes passed the marathon mark once again today. More than that, we're one mile from the 250 mile mark.

Press on...

Welcome to Marionville, Missouri

2009-04-24T13:40:00.000-05:00

Jason is working on mile 23. He's going strong now that the Missouri State soccer players are back. Jason is running with 4 college girls. Way to go, Jason!

The folks here in Marionville sure know how to make a visitor feel welcome!

The Girls are on the Run and the Chicks are Running

2009-04-24T12:31:00.000-05:00

Trish Hopkins, the director of the Springfield Girls on the Run council and Andrea Reynolds, the owner of Running Chicks apparel company, came out to run with Jason today. They are pictured left along with Jason and Sarah Kruger. Sarah has been biking with Jason pretty much all day. What a trooper! Jason is getting a HUGE boost from all of this great company.

A little Motherly love...

2009-04-24T11:11:00.000-05:00

We had a transistion in the support crew this morning. Charlie completed his time on the crew and headed home for Bentonville where he will have Jason's beer waiting for him at the finish. Happily though, we gained Holly, Jason's mom. There's no one in the world that can lift a kid's spirits higher than his mom. I'm happy to have Holly aboard in the support van.

We ran into..BEARS!?!?!

2009-04-24T10:25:00.002-05:00

Lady Bears that is! Three Missouri State women's soccer student-athletes joined Jason on his run this morning. Pictured to the right are Charlie Holyfield, Allie Osmundson, Jackie Jasper, Jason, Laura Galati, and Lisa Galati. Props to the Lady Bears. They finished more than a 10K. Word has it they will be back for more later.

An addition to the crew

2009-04-24T10:06:00.000-05:00

We added an addition to the crew this morning. Amy Luke, athletic trainer at Missouri State University is now the official athletic trainer of the MOAR TREK. Amy was kind enough to take a look at Jason's leg this morning. She gave us some great guidelines to follow and even attempted to teach me how to tape an ankle. Athletic trainers everywhere would have cringed at my first attempt. Amy is an absolute lifesaver. She not only helped Jason physically, but mentally as well. He's running great now thanks to Amy. We wish we could take you along, Amy!

In all my haste...

2009-04-24T06:25:00.000-05:00

I nearly forgot to mention two miles stones reached yesterday in the MO-AR TREK.

1) We surpassed the 200-mile mark! Wooooo Hooooo! Lauren has a cool post on it from yesterday if you haven't already checked it out.

2) We've whittled down the remaining mileage to double digits! According to Google Maps we have 93.8 miles left! We've had a couple of inadvertent detours with our ability to navigate, but hey, $H*T happens :)

Best-

Jason

Starting information for Day 7 - Springfield, MO to Aurora, MO

2009-04-24T05:51:00.000-05:00

Good morning everyone!

The starting point for today's run is on E. Sunshine St., a few hundred yards west of National Ave. (west of St. John's Mercy Medical Center on Sunshine)

Sorry about this late notice, but we'll probably be there at 8am or later. I'm having my leg looked at at 7am this morning. I'll get there as quickly as possible after that meeting so we can get started.

If you aren't able to meet this morning, we're sorry to be missing you, but you can always track us down later today on HWY 60 as we make our way through Republic and hopefully Aurora.

Have a great day everyone,

Jason

Day 6 - 35.05 Miles - Niangua, MO to Springfield, MO

2009-04-23T18:16:00.000-05:00

The missing mystery mile. What does THAT mean? By the way, this tree marks where I finished my first ever 40 mile run (yesterday). It also happens that it was today's start point. Okay, so you already deduced that.

Funny story (short version):

I left my GPS watch on top of the car before we left the hotel this morning and failed to retrieve it prior to departing for our start location. Oops. Most ultra runners I know don't wear GPS watches too often. I do on almost every run. I guess I'm just used to it. It's familiar to me, you know?

I wanted it today, like the previous 5, because I'm charting new territory for myself here. Both physically & mentally. But I would have to do without the watch since I left it on the car. This resulted in "good luck finding it". We did search a bit, but that only resulted in a late start today (about 9am), and netted nothing in the way of a watch.

Well my luck quickly turned for the better about a mile in to the run! My watch sat roadside as I ran along, just waiting for me to find it! It has a couple of new battle scars but it still works like a charm. I felt a little more comfortable at that point.

So the 'missing mystery mile' is the mile I've run during the MO-AR TREK that is not on my watch. That's OK though, I know I ran it ;)

Unfortunately, the leg didn't feel 'comfortable' (being generous with that word) until about 18 miles into the run - bummer. But, we did it again anyhow. 35.05 miles on day 6 of MO-AR TREK.

Happy to have survived, and to be taking 'another bite' tomorrow.

Best for now,

Jason

Springfield here we come!

2009-04-23T13:39:00.000-05:00

We are in Strafford, MO right now. About 5 miles East of Springfield. Click on the orange link on the left side of the blog to see the route. We'll be coming in on Kearney St and headed down National right by Missouri State. Everyone is encouraged to come on out and join us!

It's amazing what you'll think of after 6 days on the road

2009-04-23T13:33:00.000-05:00

A limerick...

There once was a guy named Eads

Who ran as much as he pleased.

But then he ran more

Even though he was sore

To help Girls on the Run with their needs.

Keep going

2009-04-23T13:20:00.000-05:00

We just finished a pit stop at mile 18. Jason ate some salted potatoes (a trick he picked up at the North Face Endurance 50) and drank a lot of Gatorade. He got back on his feet and said

"To quote Dean's pacer at mile 80 of the Leadville 100 while Dean was puking on the side of the course, 'You can either stop or keep going.' I think I'll keep going."

Keep going, Jason. You're an inspiration to us all.

You've Come A Long Way, Baby

2009-04-23T12:13:00.000-05:00

At 11:47 a.m. Jason surpassed the 200 mile mark on Route OO! Can you believe it?!?! He's doing pretty good. It's hotter out here than it has been so keeping hydrated is key.

Charlie and I are on a "run" to gas up the support crew van and get more ice. Only 111 more miles to go. Press on!

More Friends

2009-04-23T10:30:00.000-05:00

We met some new friends today. Meet Flora, Betsy, Clara and the rest of the ladies. They came to the fence to see Jason off. Jason said thanks by helping them with some breakfast.

Seriously though, the people along Route 66 have been very friendly. Numerous people has stopped to ask if Charlie and I needed help when they saw us on the side of the road. Hopefully Charlie and I don't look that lost. It's nice to know though that people are willing to help.

Thank you, St. Anthony!

2009-04-23T09:02:00.000-05:00

We had an eventful start today. Jason forgot he put his GPS watch on the roof of the support van so we drove off to today’s starting point. Oops! After realizing that the watch had fallen off somewhere along the 10 miles between the hotel and the starting point, we backtracked to the hotel, but found nothing. With Plan B in place, Jason took off running. What do you know, we’re not two miles from the starting point and here comes Jason up the road watch in hand. He found the watch on the side of the road!

So it’s just before 9 am and we’re just starting out. My internet signal is a little spotty, so I’ll do my best to keep you updated. The 200 mile mark comes up today at 13 miles today!! More to come on that. Press on…

MO-AR TREK: A kind and encouraging word to help you face the day...

2009-04-23T07:23:00.000-05:00

Day 6. Well folks, I was done this morning. At 6am my leg hurt so bad I couldn't imagine even walking to the car, much less running 35+ miles today.

But you know what? Some well timed and gentle encouragement can go a long way.

Not too happy about sitting at your desk this morning? That pile of laundry casting a shadow the size of Mt. Everest in your laundry room? Don't feel like getting the kids off to school today, too much on your 'busy schedule'? Daunting, isn't it?

Crew member Charlie Holyfield (pictured right, with Lauren and I) has some helpful and kind words for me, and YOU, this morning. You see, Charlie went to Vietnam several years back, during a WAR. Do you think he got a chance to quit when he didn't feel like taking on the battle that day. NO, he didn't.

Charlie's advice? SUCK IT UP, GET OUT THERE AND KICK TODAY'S ASS YOU SISSY.

MO-AR TREK CREW: Kicking the day's ASS, one day at a time.

I'm so proud of my crew - they really do kick ass!

See you down the road,

Jason

Breakfast for the MO-AR TREK: Because you have to be a little NUTS...

2009-04-22T21:36:00.000-05:00

This isn't a plug for Grape Nuts because they paid me. They didn't. They did, however, contribute $750 to Girls on the Run through MO-AR TREK and asked for nothing in return.

Well, I like Grape Nuts and I eat them all the time. So I'm posting a picture of their cereal.

Many thanks to Greg Lanides from Post Grape Nuts. Girls on the Run appreciates your support!

Jason

Day 5 - 40.0 Miles - Hazelgreen, MO to Niangua, MO

2009-04-22T21:17:00.000-05:00

We’re at Day 5 and counting. Yes, we. We pulled of something quite amazing today. At mile 10 I was really questioning my sanity and ability to continue – then I realized I left my sanity back in Kirkwood, MO last Saturday, so I quit questioning it and, mentally & literally moved on. Your mind can really wander in 6 or 8 hours of running…

Call me a pessimist, or call me cynical but I’ve decided it seems to me that most people don’t ever go after their dream. In the last 5 days of running across the state of Missouri I think I’ve discovered some insight as to why that may be.

Going for want you want isn’t often easy. In fact, it hardly ever is. Think hard enough about it and I bet you come to a similar conclusion. As I struggled with the worst pain in running I’ve ever experienced today, I just thought about all the people I look up to so much, and the tremendous challenges they have overcome. That was all the motivation I needed.

My Dad is a person that comes to mind in this respect. He’s a person I look up to. No one I know ever put in more effort for any job than my Dad when he decided to open his own grocery store. He worked around the clock for months, no joke, to remodel the store he wanted. His hands were cut, knees were sore, and his will was well tested. It was a tall task, but he did it. I’m very proud of my Dad for what he did to open his store, and so many other things that I don’t have time to tell you about and you don’t have time to read. Thanks for setting such a good example for me Dad; you’re such an awesome role model and my favorite hero!

Thinking of my Dad, his battles, and others like Dad that I know and love carried me a long way today. So far in fact that it’s farther than I’ve ever run before.

So yes, WE did it. The crew of Lauren & Charlie were 51% of today’s amazing effort. Dad & other influential people in my life were another 48%. I’ll give myself only 1% of the credit – no bullshit. I know it wasn’t me that got me through all of that mileage today. It was WE.

Day 6 and the 200-mile mark are waiting for me tomorrow. I hope to reach as far as the southwest edge of Springfield, MO around the intersection of West Sunshine Street & the James River Expressway.

And thanks to you too, K.C. I’ll be taking at least 1 more step.

I bid you all sweet dreams tonight…

Jason

Mooooooving right along

2009-04-22T21:02:00.000-05:00

Mother nature has a funny way of giving a guy a boost. As Jason ran by this herd of cows, they all joined in and ran with him. They only stopped when they hit the fence. Looks like the heifers want to fight obesity, too.

Beer me

2009-04-22T12:14:00.000-05:00

Charlie and I stopped on New Castle Road to wait for Jason to come down the road. As he passed, Jason mentioned that he could go for a New Castle.

There's a whole bunch of them waiting for you in Bentonville, honey!

Getting our kicks...

2009-04-22T11:49:00.001-05:00

The MOAR TREK route is comprised almost completely of the famed Route 66. Charlie and I are still looking for James Dean.

Update on the iPod playlist...Jason is bringing Sexy Back...

It's noon here in Missouri. To my friends at the Valley...What's for lunch?

Fashion Statement

2009-04-22T11:31:00.001-05:00

Pit Stop

2009-04-22T11:21:00.000-05:00

We stopped at Mott Auto to pick up some spare parts for Jason. Thanks, Mr. Mott, for letting us use your driveway.

Halftime

2009-04-22T09:44:00.000-05:00

Jason crossed the half way mark this morning! He has traveled 155.5 miles (250K for our Club Fat Ass friends out there). He had some thoughts....

Perseverance

2009-04-22T09:37:00.000-05:00

Alex posted a quote this morning that talked about perseverance. Well, Jason is persevering through some pain right now. His left shin is acting up again. With some guidance from the MOAR TREK nurse (thanks, Aunt Dar!), we’re hoping to get him feeling better soon. Some words of encouragement or funny jokes would be welcome. I keep him posted on the messages as he runs.

Local participation

2009-04-22T07:34:00.000-05:00

Even the locals are interested in Jason's run. These two horses watched Jason run by then galloped a little with him too!

The sun will come up tomorrow...

2009-04-22T07:25:00.000-05:00

Jason got an early start today. We were out of the hotel room before the sun was even up. Day 5 should be a straightforward day. Not many turns to take. The weatherman says it's going to be a warmer day than the past few days. Hydration will be key as the mercury rises.

Another milestone is coming up...We are about 7 miles from the halfway point. I'll be back online to tell you all about it.

Day 4 - 36.0 Miles - Newburg, MO to Hazelgreen, MO

2009-04-21T20:43:00.000-05:00

Day 4 is in the books. Thanks for your continued support and for keeping up with the blog! If I’m honest, I have to tell you I’m really sore – but muscle soreness isn’t that difficult to deal with. It’s injury that concerns me. Not sure what this lingering pain in the front of my left leg (about 2-3 inches above my ankle) indicates, but it’s probably not good. It started yesterday and was in and out all day today. The good news is that alternating heat, ice and stretching it seems to help a lot at night. I should be ready to go in the AM.

So enough of my complaining. I’m still alive, which is more than a lot of people (even me to a degree) expected by the end of day 4!

Joining Lauren and me today for day 4, 5 & 6 is Charlie. We’re VERY glad to have him here. He's good at keeping me chuckling. Lauren is especially happy, because it leaves her more time to keep up with the blog as we move along (albeit, slowly) and help navigate, ready the food, hydration and shoe changes. Lauren really has a full time job out here!

A little about today’s run: it was BEAUTIFUL. The first 5 or 6 miles were a real climb, but it resulted in a long stretch of road atop a ridge lined by huge evergreen trees. They must have been at least 40ft tall and spanned as far as my eye could see on the hilltops in every direction. The wind was whipping hard, but thanks to those gorgeous trees I was protected, so the only result was nature’s song -made by the air moving swiftly through this bristly dark green forest. Wonderful.

Not sure I would have said this about 2 hours ago, but I’m looking forward to tomorrow’s run. It will be challenging. The “high’s” keep getting higher, which helps offset some lower “lows”. Seems to all be balancing out in the end. All I can do is my best to keep moving forward.

Signing off from Lebanon, MO for tonight, but there will be more tomorrow as we aim to reach Sampson, MO.

-Jason

Take me home country road...

2009-04-21T12:56:00.000-05:00

It just so happens that Jason's step-dad (Charlie, who joined us today) has the last name of Holyfield. We found Charlie's long-lost cousins in the back woods of Buckhorn, Missouri. We were going to stop in and say hello, but we had 7 more miles to cover. The dirt roads of this remote area are a welcome change for Jason's feet.

Mile 20 Shoe Change

2009-04-21T11:59:00.000-05:00

The 20 mile mark prompted a shoe change. Jason covered 20 miles in just under 5 hours. Not bad for a guy who's run over 120 miles :) He's running through Waynesville, MO right now. Wayne, I never knew you had a town named after you!

----------------------------------------

Jason Eads: Ok, I hate to do this, but it was 20 miles in under 4 hours honey, not 5. This is alreay hard enough. No need to be tacking on extra hours! LOL ;)

Mile 14.5 - Flying Colours

2009-04-21T10:42:00.000-05:00

KC and Sibylle - Jason asked me to post this especially for you...

Day 4 - On the road again...

2009-04-21T09:38:00.000-05:00

Day 4 is underway and it's been a good one so far. Charlie has joined the crew and we're laughing already. Jason is feeling pretty good for logging 100+ miles so far. It was a brisk morning but the sun is warming things up. The wind is whipping through making things a little slow going. We started south of Newburg and are hoping finish up in Hazelgreen. Press on...

Day 4 - Girl Power

2009-04-21T05:37:00.000-05:00

To be honest, I don't like the term "Girl Power". Seems polarizing to me. Why not just "People Power"? You can trust that I'm not trying to be P.C. here, I'm just saying that there are plenty of people, men & women alike, that are real heroes. However, at the risk of contradicting myself here, there may be some times when the term "Girl Power" is appropriate.

I'm going to be "flying solo" for a good stretch of this mornings running. Lauren is headed down the road ahead to pick up support crew member Charlie Holyfield. However, Lauren prepared a nice surprise for me last night. She's going to let me borrow her precious iPod to keep me company and even created a custom play list, just for me :)
What's more, the iPod just so happens to be pink. MO-AR TREK is all about Girls on the Run. I don't believe it's a coincidence that this MP3 player is pink ;) Therefore, I have no shame in saying I could use the Girl Power today.

And, in keeping with my thoughts earlier, in this note: HERE'S TO GIRL POWER!

Jason

Day 3 - 36.60 Miles - Leasburg, MO to Newburg, MO

2009-04-20T20:48:00.000-05:00

A friend told me that it "really flattens out" on this route after about 90 miles. In this picture to the right I'm well past the 90-mile mark. Maybe the person that told me this made a better choice on alternative roads?

At any rate, I'm still feeling pretty good, save for a little "twinge" on the left front of my leg that I seem to have mostly worked out & under control tonight. Not that I'm charging really hard, but I do feel happy about my pace so far. For "fast" runners the 110 miles covered so far hasn't been fast at all, but hey, this isn't a race and I'm having a great time! Plus I'm just a normal person - anyone with the will to try could do this - honest. Also, I haven't made it to AR just yet.

The going does get tough. Thinking you have an entire day of running solo and only interacting with "civilization" for very brief periods. All you get is to run by the van to snag a PB & honey sandwich and a quick word of encouragment. The "boosts" are fleeting at times.

But this lifted my spirits: Much to my surprise, a guardian angel showed up at about mile 6 this morning (vicious dog savior) - my friend & nutritionist (in that order), Lisa! Lisa really did save me from a dog trying to cross the street and go at me by blocking it with her car and gently beeping her horn. Worked like a charm, and I have the absence of bite marks to prove it. Thanks Lisa - you happened to show up in the nic of time! Lisa then parked her car and rode next to me on her bike for 6 miles and then we parted ways, but great to have her out for the short time that I did.

Another crewmember joined the efforts - my step-mom Peggy! She even covered a mile with me near the end of today's run! It was a nice addition to the day as well. Peggy has great taste in food & music - perfect for a support crew member. Peggy was only with us for today, but was a HUGE boost for me and Lauren. Thanks Peg!

From left to right: Lisa, Jason & Peggy

Lauren and I are joined tomorrow by the Ragin' Cajun, my step-dad Charlie, for 3 days starting in the morning. It's going to be fun for sure. Charlie has never met a stranger and is just the type you want rolling through tiny towns in rural Missouri scaring the locals.

To date most observers of the MO-AR TREK have contended that I am the crazy one on this journey. I'll be happy to be relieved of that distinction for the 3 days Charlie is crewing, because he's absolutely NUTS. I mean that in the best way possible Charlie ;) I’m looking forward to some good jokes.

Ok, going to rest up for the night and hope for the best tomorrow. Thanks for tuning in everyone and for all of your encouraging comments here. While I can't feasibly respond to all of them, I can promise you I read each and every one of them. They help a TON.

Jason

P.S. Along with forecated temperatures for the rest of the week, donations are really on the rise. We’ve eclipsed $5,500 already, all for Girls on the Run in Missouri – way to go everyone!

100 miles and still going

2009-04-20T16:40:00.000-05:00

Day 3 brought us through some pretty small towns in Central Missouri. Unfortunately that meant my internet signal went ka-put. We're back online now so here are the updates. Peggy and I resisted the urge to detour to the winery and we couldn't find the guy with the mojitos in Cuba. The hills kept rolling and Jason kept running.

Jason hit a HUGE milestone running his 100th mile of the trek. Check out the video. Thanks to the guidance of his nutritionists, Lisa and Brooke, he's doing a great job of keeping hydrated and fueled.

We finished today just south of a small town called Newburg. It's beautiful country out here.

We'll get a good meal tonight and then a good night's sleep and be back at it again tomorrow.

Day 3 - Press on...

2009-04-20T09:18:00.001-05:00

The rain has moved through so we're looking at a dry day today. The wind is whipping quite a bit but the temperature is great. Jason's stepmom, Peggy, is going the support crew today! Jason is moving through Cuba this morning (mojitos anyone?) then on to the winery town of St. James. This will be a test of willpower for me and Peggy.

Day 2 - 38.08 miles - Union, MO to Leasburg, MO

2009-04-19T15:28:00.000-05:00

Day 2 went better than expected. It's hard to know how the body will react to the run from the previous day if you've never stacked serious mileage together like this before. I haven't, so I was surprised (not to mention, DELIGHTED) to post a much quicker time for more mileage today. Today was also much more hilly and a climb virtually all day, but I felt good, so I just went with it.

Lauren and I were on our own for the first 27 miles, but Wayne (who is my running buddy) joined to finish today's run at that point. As Lauren mentioned in a previous post, it was a big boost. Not long after, our friend Jeremiah joined us on his bike. Another good boost. I can't thank these two enough for the support they've offered over the last 2 days (and well before that, now that I think about it).

Day 3 will likely be a solo endeavor from a running standpoint, but I'll have Lauren and a new addition to the crew, my step-mom Peggy! I'll definitely post a picture so you all can "meet" her. So, I'm really looking forward to day 3.

I need to rest a bit, but you can bet I'll be keeping an eye on the St. Louis Blues game tonight. They are in the first round of the playoffs and the formidable Vancouver Canucks have been pushing my Blues around. Tonight they are back in St. Louis and really need a win - go BLUES!

I'll be going again tomorrow and the planned route should take us from Union , MO to Leasburg , MO.

See you all down the road,

Jason

Bourbon, MO

2009-04-19T12:17:00.000-05:00

Jason passed the marathon mark here on Day 2. He says he's getting tired but Wayne just joined him to finish the day so that's a boost. Thanks Wayne! Jeremiah isn't far behind on his bike. We'll have another strong finish.

Mile 19 Day 2

2009-04-19T10:46:00.000-05:00

We made it to Sherwood Forest but no sign of Robin Hood or his merry men.

The road ahead...

2009-04-19T09:45:00.000-05:00

The road has been hilly thus far but Jason is trucking along. Good news though...the rain has stopped. For now at least.

It's raining...it's pouring....

2009-04-19T07:41:00.001-05:00

Day 2 is a wet one! Jason is back on the road and feeling good. The goal is another 35+ miles.

Day 1 - 36.36 miles - Kirkwood, MO to Union, MO

2009-04-18T20:34:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone!

Day one was nothing less than a success. I don't know if I'll be able to feel so good about subsequent days as I do about this one, so I'm taking advantage while I can ;)

Truth be told, this event was a success before the first stride was taken. Girls on the Run is really thrilled with the tremendous level of support you all have provided. Well over $5,000 has been raised for them, and we're still building!

I want to thank everyone that came out in support today. Mayor McDonnell, Lisa & Denny Galati, Joe McCormac, Mike & Libby Wilcox (and family), Mike Bannes, Guy Oujdeuan (sorry Guy, I know I messed that up!), Sean Fitzgerald, Jim Radt, Adam & Becka Williams, Erica & Wayne Robinson, Tom & Kim Puszkar (and family) & Jeremiah Ingram.

Crew Chief Lauren knocked the ball out of the park in keeping me well nourished, well hydrated and best of all, SAFE on the roadway. The pictures are great too, many of which are already posted below.

You all being there today demonstrated the true spirit of what MO-AR TREK is all about - getting people out and active! Tom, you got me with that shirt man, thanks for that.

I'm resting up for another big day tomorrow. Don't worry Lisa G. - I ate well this evening :)

Only 274.64 miles to go, but who's counting?

Jason

mile 19

2009-04-18T11:18:00.000-05:00

Jason picked up some support around mile 19! Jeremiah biked to meet Jason along his route. Jeremiah will complete today's route with us. The Puszkar family came out, too! Tom ran a while with Jason while the girls cheered them on.

On your MO-ARK...Get set...GO!

2009-04-18T07:29:00.000-05:00

Day 1 of the MOAR TREK is off and running. Thank you to everyone who came out to see Jason off. He left Kirkwood at 7:15 a.m. heading north on Kirkwood Road. He was feeling good and the support of all of his friends added to his spirits. It's looking like rain here in St. Louis, but the worst might pass us. Good thing Jason has a raincoat!

A little confidence can go a long way...

2009-04-15T22:12:00.000-05:00

From my perspective it's amazing that people have so much confidence in me to finish this 500k run in 9 days or less. I appreciate all of those votes of assuredness I've received. My Mom is among the highly confident, perhaps even the most confident. She’s quite sure I'll be in Bentonville at the finish line (her driveway) by Sunday, April 26th at 2pm. Just in time for a party! You don't think my mom is biased, do you?

Great news: You're invited! I’ll give it my best to be there with you (on-time, of course). A little confidence can go a long way, so let’s hope “a long way” = 311 miles or more! Oh, and THANKS MOM!

Mom's invitation follows:

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hello everyone!

To all of you that are following this awesome endeavor of Jason’s MO-AR Trek of more than 300 miles, we invite you to join us as we cheer Jason thru that final point of destination! YES!! There will be a Finish Line Party on Sunday, April 26th, located at 11916 Hickory Drive in Bentonville, AR! So come help us, as we warm-up this party, by gathering together at 2:00 that afternoon! You can also track along on Jason’s blogsite for an estimated arrival time, as he runs this way! Please bring your lawn chair and if you would like to bring a healthy food/snack to share, we would greatly welcome your contribution! Please don’t hesitate in attending; we have plenty of wide open space to celebrate Jason’s arrival!

If you have any questions or plan on attending, please email: hollyholyfield@cox.net

Thanks in advance for your support & looking forward to seeing all of you at the Finish Line!

Here’s to One Foot in Front of the Other!!!

-Holly Holyfield

Finish Line Party Location:

http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Bentonville&state=AR&address=11916+Hickory+Dr&zipcode=72712

The MO-AR TREK – truly a team effort

2009-04-10T00:05:00.000-05:00

"Team Lauren & Jason"

Dictionary.com defines team as “a number of persons associated in some joint action”.

This definition impeccably defines what it necessary to attempt the MO-AR TREK. It takes a whole host of people to make it even a remote possibility that I’ll finish this 311-mile run. It takes exponentially more effort and participation to accomplish what our ultimate goal is – better health and wellness in our citizens.

There are a few key ingredients we have in the recipe for success of the MO-AR TREK (not in any particular order):

1. Determination:

Obesity and generally poor health are at epidemic levels in our society. It’s going to take some global thinking in conjunction with some localized action to fix this. We have to be in it for the long haul. MO-AR TREK is an effort to bring awareness to our issues on health and wellness, and begin taking steps to overcome them right here in Missouri. No one can do this for us; we must do it for ourselves. We all overcome challenges everyday, one step at a time. This is the approach for the MO-AR TREK as well – both figuratively and literally.

2. Inspiration:

The council directors of Girls on the Run are real life heroes; they give their time and, often, their own money to instill active and healthy lifestyle habits in our country’s young ladies. These people are ROCK STARS and make a positive difference everyday in the life a child!

3. Support:

Many thanks to all of you that have (and will) donate to Girls on the Run, are supporting the run directly by volunteering your time, and will join the trek as it happens. Thanks ESPECIALLY to my wife Lauren. She continues to amaze me with her ability & willingness to balance our life with her workload and my running “habit”.

With over $3,500 raised for Missouri Girls on the Run councils thus far, we should be proud of our accomplishments to date! Momentum continues to build, so let’s keep the pedal to the metal - It’s barely more than a week until the start of the run.

Training my best,

Jason

"The Route"

2009-03-30T18:23:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I'm not a planner. In fact, while the whole idea of the MO-AR TREK is a couple of years old (conceptually speaking), the idea of a run specifically from Kirkwood to Bentonville is less than a year old.

My wife, Lauren (A.K.A. MO-AR TREK Support Crew Chief), is a planner. She does it for a living and believe me when I say - she's good at it.

Last weekend offered me an opportunity to attempt to copy one of so many endearing qualities Lauren has. I decided to plan something for a change because it seems to work so well for her (Oh, I mean US, Honey).

Last Friday afternoon I drove the 1st hundred miles or so of the MO-AR TREK route (there's a link on the main blog page if you want to see it). After 100 miles or so I hopped on I-44 to "hurry" down to Bentonville so that Saturday morning I could drive the last 100 miles planned for the end of the run. This strategy for planning would only leave out the "middle" 100 miles of the route.

How well has this worked? You be the judge. I took the time to map the run again today using MapMyRun.com. A cool feature of MapMyRun is an option to see the elevation profile of a particular route. If was I wasn't scared before, I am now. Embedded in this post you can see the elevation profile of the 311-mile journey.

Ok, so it's not the Leadville 100, Western States 100, and it's certainly not the Badwater Ultramarathon either. Plus, I'm not attempting to run this in "one-shot" like those amazing contests I just mentioned are run. I'm sleeping each night and trying to live to fight again the next day so I can complete the MO-AR TREK in 9 days or less.

However, it is 311 miles (500k for my Canucks!) with 18,753ft of elevation change (5,716 meters). The good news? The high point is only 1,566ft at about the 271-mile point near Butterfield, MO.

Support Crew member Charlie Holyfield helped me scout the western most end of the 100 miles Saturday and he gave me some good advice after seeing some of the hills and valleys I'd be faced with. "Don't psych yourself out before you get started", Charlie said. I think I'll take that suggestion and just approach this one step at a time!

For those interested in the MapMyRun version of the route, check out:
http://www.mapmyrun.com/view_route?r=658123845114310719

Regardless of what happens, Girls On The Run will be better off for me having tried, so I'll rest easy knowing that.

This planning is for the birds. I’m going for a run!

Jason

To my friends "north of the border" in Canada

2009-03-28T07:55:00.000-05:00

To all you Club Fat Ass members out there, I'm thrilled to be a part of the CFA crew!

On a related note, I've decided I'm going for 311 miles instead of 306 (so I might have to tack a few on at the end, or more likely, I'm good at getting lost along the way, so it could be 400 miles by the time I get to Bentonville, AR!). This all assumes I make it all the way to AR to begin with - a HUGE assumption, I do realize this.

For those of you who aren’t quick with math, the significance is that 311 miles gets me to a full 500k. So that's for you, my Crazy Canadian Cohorts!!!

Jason