My Failure at Old Goats--a Valuable Lesson

I tried to run 50 miles on a terrible day.

The canyons and peaks were hot. It was 95 degrees at 1:30 p.m. I selected a tough course for my first 50. Lots of elevation and "technical" paths made this very hard to do.

I gave it my all, but dehydration and salt loss spelled the end of my journey at mile 32.5. It was the furthest I have ever gone. I am proud of the attempt.

I learned when to pack it in. I learned when to hydrate more. I learned many more things--some of which I'll write about later.

Old Goats 50 mile video

Aftermath

Clearly, I'm losing one toe nail (oh, well).
Check out my trail tan (made from dirt)
Look at the salts on my hat.

Clearly dehydration and salt loss were a problem.

Awesome Volunteers

These friendly folks were typical of everyone involved in the race. Bless them all. Thanks Steve and Baz and the rest. You made this race and my adventure possible.

Some Beautiful Plants

The trail had some great flora.

The Trail

The trail was "technical," meaning that there was loose rock everywhere. Notice the constant elevation.

Holy Jim

Holy Jim was the prettiest of locations and the most treacherous
for me. I started in the valley where the shade and water were prevalent. Then it was five miles of swtichbacks in the hot sun. Dehydration and salt loss were it for me on this 95 degree day.