In my new quest to become an Ultra Endurance Athlete I have started running again. I have only run twice in three days and the runs have been really short so nothing that can considered EPIC— yet. But in talking to a few runners that have come into the store lately I thought it would be cool to broaden my Ultra experience into other sports.

I’ve always enjoyed running but had to give it up because of chronic shin splints and a groin injury. Before the new millennium I was running 5ks, 10ks and half marathons in hopes of running a full marathon. That goal never materialized because of the aforementioned injuries. That goal is still out there and I eventually would like to compete or complete the Death Valley Cup (DVC). The DVC includes the Badwater Ultramarathon (135 miles running race) and the Furnace Creek 508 (508 mile bike race). Sure it’s a lofty goal but why not?

It’s been 10 years since I’ve done any running. My runs have been short and based on time. I went out for two 20 minute runs. The pace was slow about 9:30 for Saturday. Then yesterday, Monday, I ran at an 8:30 pace. I felt fine during the runs but I am experiencing some soreness today– particularly in my calves. I need to take it really slow. Building my running base must be progressive or I’ll risk reinjuring myself.

First running goal will be to run the Lasse Viren 20km trail run in Malibu on December 13, 2009. From there build towards my first marathon.

The running will be done as part of my off-season cross training. The Furnace Creek 508 on October 2-3, 2009 is the goal race for this season.