I have just returned from Auburn California, the Endurance Capital of The World. I was on an epic adventure; The Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run….presented by The North Face. The run was well organized, the course was quite challenging, and I was well cared for during my journey. I was weighed at 11 different checkpoints. Race management said this was for my own well being. One time I gained 6 pounds in a 4 mile stretch on less than 32 ounces of fluids. I think maybe they have a lead problem.
Many thanks to my most pretty girlfriend Marty for hanging with me from Foresthill on. We had big fun and as always, a few knucklehead moments as well. Like the time we changed shoes after the river crossing. About 6 miles later I thought I had picked up a stone in my left shoe. Turned out to be 4 bandaids, 1 baby butt wipe, and a chewable Imodium tablet. And they actually let me work on rockets.
All in all it was a great run and well worth the trip. Especially if you’re traveling with the Kniplings. We had a hell of a lot of fun getting out there! So it is, was, and always will be Western States………but Massanutten still Rocks.
Tom Corris