So, you could say it’s been a while… 🙂
Much like the rest of the world, I’ve had my life turned upside down for nearly the past 2 years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. My running has had its’ ups and downs during that time, and I’ve been racing less since so many races have been cancelled.
More recently, races have been coming back, and it’s been nice to get at least a small sense of “normal” again. I’ve been running more consistently, and am very excited for some upcoming winter races. My eyes may have been bigger than my stomach, but it’s sure going to be fun giving it a go!
Iditasport 100
First up is the Iditasport 100 in mid-January. I’m excited and a bit nervous for this one. This is a new race for me, and will be on mostly new terrain. Some of the early miles will be on the same trails or at least same general area as the Susitna 100, but then the rest of it will be all new for me. Lots of time spent on the Yentna River, with checkpoints at several lodges along the way (which has always been one of my favorite parts of Susitna). The 100 miler finishes up at Skwentna Roadhouse in the middle of Alaskan wilderness, and the race entry fee includes a plane ride back to Anchorage.
My biggest concern with this race is that it has the potential to be very cold. I know several people that ran it back in 2019 when it was around -40 F at the start! I’ve ran in as cold as about -30 before and managed to keep myself warm, so I should be good, but it still gives me a little cause for concern.
Susitna 100
Next up is the Susitna 100 in mid-February. After shortening the race to 50 miles last year (or as they called it, a “Half Hundred”), the race is back in full form this year. This is easily one of my favorite races of the year, and this will be my fifth time running it. The race directors are some of the nicest people I know, and just the whole community around this race is what makes it so special to me. I always say it’s like a family reunion coming back to this race every year.
White Mountains 100
Finally, we have the White Mountain 100 in late March up in Fairbanks. I’ve run this race before in 2019, and was supposed to run it again in 2020, but it was one of the very first races to get cancelled due to COVID. I really enjoyed this race, the course was beautiful and had a lot more variety than Susitna. This is another one that has the potential to be REALLY cold.
Three 100 milers in three months – am I crazy?! Stay tuned to find out 😉