Double Trouble in Asheville

The Backyard to Vineyard Challenge they call it.  An all new event at the Asheville Marathon & Half at Biltmore Estate.  What began as just a marathon in 2013, the folks at IDaph Events have added a Half Marathon in subsequent years, and now have added a double (for double trouble).

Crazy runners (like me), are gearing up for a beast of a challenge in mid-March.  Now just four short weeks away I will be running/pacing these events in the mountains of North Carolina.  A Half Marathon that celebrates the beauty and history that is The Biltmore Estate, on Saturday March 12th, followed by another pass by the glorious Estate during a 26.2 mile journey through gardens, hills and vineyards the following day.  Sounds crazy, right?  Well, at least 100 runners are up to the challenge and will receive a commemorative award and special finishers jacket reserved for only the most crazy to finish both events.

This will be my second attempt at running a Half and Full on back to back days.  The first time I tried something like this was last July.  It’s a very exciting prospect, but not easy.  For those of you that have completed two Full marathons back to back are just a bit crazier than me.  For now!  I will attempt the Full/Full challenge one day in the near future.

So, how does a runners prepare for a challenge such as Backyard to Vineyard?  I believe a good dose of mental prep is in order, along with the physical.  Being mentally prepared to tackle 39.3 miles over the course of two days will more than likely be easier for me than the physical part.  I’m already in talks with my legs and feet, believe me!  I know I can do it though!  I’ve done it before, and at elevation.  This time it won’t be any easier, in fact the course is tougher by a long shot.  I will be as ready as ever to conquer!

As a runner, what is your proudest accomplishment?  Have you ever tried any crazy challenges that are out there?  I love to hear your stories.

 

Expo Day – Hilton Head Marathon

Well, race weekend has arrived.  Three weeks ago today, I was headed to Charleston, SC for my 9th marathon, and once again I am back here in South Carolina for marathon #10.  Hilton Head Island to be exact.

The race expo is today from 4-8pm.  I am planning a short two mile shake out run early this afternoon, and just some relaxation the rest of the day.  We drove down last night, through the dark and rain.  Not a fun drive, but we made it just fine.  Mom had made up some homemade pizza for our arrival, which we quickly gobbled down.  It was a peaceful evening once we got here.  The drive takes just under five hours.

Chicken and pasta tonight for our pre-race dinner is in order.  It’s so nice to have a destination race where family lives.  The comforts of home.  No hotel room, no early check out before heading to the race, etc.  I even brought my own pillow, which is very important for a good nights rest.

Tomorrow is the big race.  Forecast is still pretty dismal.  Right now it is sunny and almost 50 degrees.  Why can’t we have this weather for the race?  Well, I just need to come to terms with the fact that this will be a rainy race, and I have to enjoy it regardless.

Here’s to marathon #10, and making memories!