Mountain Running® Team
In 2003 La Sportiva formed the premier trail and adventure running team in North America. The La Sportiva Mountain Running® team is a solid group of individuals, AND a talented group of athletes. Each year 35 great athletes push the boundaries of personal achievement and enjoyment, learn how to go further faster.
Become a member of the La Sportiva Mountain Running® Team?
We support the trail running by supporting people, with shoes, great gear from our Associate Sponsors, good advice and tips, and a sense of recognition and camaraderie. Thus it is natural that we receive many requests from other runners for "sponsorship".
So how do we select our Team Members? It's not what you expect!
Most people think runners "qualify" for the Team by achieving certain results at certain races. This is not the case. Instead, we are looking for "Ambassadors" for the La Sportiva brand: good people who can run well, are seen as leaders in the sport and in their community, and who aren't shy about spreading the word about our products that work well for them. We don't "sponsor" top finishers at races; we like to work in partnership with runners in supporting them along with our brand.
Make sense? We think so. So if you're interested in being part of the Team, start by going down to your local retailer and picking up a pair of Sportiva's! Like them? Good! Run and race in them, and please let us know how you did; we'd be happy to hear. Email us at marketing@sportiva.com.
Andy Ames
Age: 48, Years running: 30, Hometown: Boulder, CO, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
blog: na
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
Keep up with my dogs, see a mountain lion(but not too close. There are still hundreds of races I'd like to do but as long as I can keep running and exploring I'll have a smile on my face.
Do you have a claim to fame?
Have commuted by bike or foot to the same job for over 20 years.
Do you have any vices?
Procrastinator. Rachel says hoarder of shoes.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
Tick!. My wife, Rachel, has Lyme Disease, so that is a bad word in our house. I love to compete and am a naturalist at heart so trail running is my perfect outlet.
What drives you to run?
I drive as little as possible. I'm lucky to have trails just 2 blocks from my house so unless I'm going to races or the high mountains all my runs start from my front door.
What is your favorite movie?
Breaking Away
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Hopefully people don't call me too many names.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
I'm a light sleeper so I often don't sleep through the night. The longest I stayed up while active was when I did a 24 hour bike ride when I was around 15 years old. It was on a 1 mile course through a shopping center parking lot and I covered 301 miles in about 20 hours. I was too saddle sore to ride the whole 24 hours.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Montana, Monty for short. Big skies, high mountains, and open plains-I think that would suit me well.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Peanut butter and apricot jam sandwich and an oatmeal cookie.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Pictures, I go to bed every night envisioning where I'm going to run and what I might see.
What really scares you about trail running?
Nothing really except the fear of missing out. There are so many wonderful things to see and adventures to be had.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Winding trails and wagging tails.
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Right here in Boulder. I have trails just two blocks from my house and live only a couple miles from work.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
I came across a dead body while running on Flagstaff Mountain. Apparently the poor guy fell off a cliff the night before.
Sean Run Bum Blanton
Age: 24, Years running: 2, Hometown: los estados unidos, Favorite shoe: Fireblade
blog: http://www.RunBum.com
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
I want to run the AT. I also want to keep running crazy mountain races all over the world! Summer 2012 I want to go to Norway and run from the bottom of the Fjords to the top with my base jumping rig and jump off the 4,000 ft cliffs they have! I want to make Run Bum a house hold name. I want to inspire others to run and be fit.
Do you have a claim to fame?
www.RunBum.com people know me as RUN BUM! 1st and only person to complete the Athens to Atlanta 89 + mile inline skating event.... on foot.
Do you have any vices?
traveling, soccer, skydiving and beer. Now if I could only do those all at the same time... hmmmmm
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
I love adventure and I love travel. Before I was a runner I was an avid world traveler. I have now combined both into a crazy lifestyle... the Run Bum Lifestyle!
What drives you to run?
I like to go fast. I like getting out my door and just going as fast as I can. I live in Atlanta so I train a lot on the road. I think its fun to try and race cars when Im on the side walk. My passion is trail running. I love single track. I could run it forever! I am always in search of the perfect run, the perfect trail and the perfect day. There is something I love... that is not just specific to running but to anything. It's about getting into that perfect rhythm. You can feel it. With running its that perfect pace and trail. Everything just clicks. You're spot on that day. I love it! I think people who don't run are missing out. The most beautiful places I've seen were places I couldn't have gotten to without running there.
What is your favorite movie?
Anchorman and Grandma's boy and point break... duh!
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
1. Run Bum - I used to tell people I was a professional Runner Bum. Well one day I met this guy named Chia and we started talking and he loved the idea and came back to me the next week. He and I then started www.RunBum.com to spread the lifestyle! 2. The Chisel- during an 8 hr race I started slow and slowly but surely started reeling people in. My buddies were there watching me and with ever lap on the 1.1 mile loop I'd say something goofy,like Im reelin' em in baby. then my buddy started saying ..."just chiselin' away" and then they started calling me THE CHISEL. 3. Cien Fuegos- I used to work with alot of hispanics and this was my nickname. It literally means 100 fires in spanish.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
hmmmm about 48 hours I think. They had on this MURDER SHE WROTE tv marathon
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Definitely Puerto Rico I think that name really complements my freckles.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Vietnamese PHO with beef tendon and tripe. I'm an adventurous eater what can I say
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
most likely Agianst the Wind by Bob Segar. There would be a video of penguins waddling down to the water for a drink. along with random words popping up such as Dr. Drew, salami and presents. ......really just normal average thoughts
What really scares you about trail running?
BEARS! I hear they can smell fear
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
The Counte of Monte Cristo. oh I think that's taken. So most likely "RUNNING IN NO MAN'S LAND"............. I just patented it so nice try.
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
I love Vancouver. It is my home outside of Atlanta. I LOVE IT! But really it's a toss up between Queenstown New Zealand, Interlaken Switzerland, Vancouver Canada, and Bariloche Argentina
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
I was running the Na Pali Coast trail when I encountered a naked guy. Its already hard enough trying to get around a fully clothed person on single track. The worst part was I said excuse me runner back and the guy moved to the side away from the 300 ft cliff drop and so then it was either get close to the naked dude or fall 300 ft. I still don't know if I made the right decision.
Bernie Boettcher
Age: 47, Years running: 12, Hometown: Silt, CO, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
I’d like to keep finding ways to win. I really enjoy seeing the pained expressions of much younger men who finish behind me. I’d like to keep adding these fabulous faces to my collection of photos and live to publish them. I hope to show the younger generations what is possible, and maybe even inspire a few to surpass me.
Do you have a claim to fame?
I’ve raced 376 times in the past 377 weeks, (since I turned 40.) I’ve won Overall 153 times and the Masters 286 times. I was the USATF Masters Mountain Runner of the Year twice. I’ve been on the USSSA National Snowshoe team twice, and have been the Masters champion 6 times, (every time I’ve gone as a Master.) I write a regular column for Trail Runner magazine and Colorado Runner magazine publishes my running photos in nearly every edition. La Sportiva Mountain Cup 2nd/4th Overall, top Master 2008-2009. I’ve been sponsored by La Sportiva for many years! I carry a camera in almost every race I run (training runs too.)
Do you have any vices?
Yes, two of them. I keep them on my workbench in the garage.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
I love exploring new places and new things, especially places overflowing with beauty and wildlife. Coincidentally, this is where I get most of my ticks.
What drives you to run?
I drive myself, (in my 1990 Toyota Camry.) I took out the back seat and installed a mattress so I can sleep in it before races, much in the same way I removed a 9 to 5 job and installed a running lifestyle in order to accomodate my passions.
What is your favorite movie?
Escanaba in da Moonlight. It was so awful, it was funny.
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Not really, but some people will say, “I pulled a Bernie,” used as a verb to describe someone who races more than once a weekend, or twice in a day.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
About 50 hours. I was working on a 6 x 12 foot canvas painting, and then I painted a wooden chair to match the painting, and then I painted a matching image like the canvas on the back of a nude model, and then I photographed them all together. After dinner and some cleanup, I went to bed. At the time I was doing a series of paintings with this model interacting with the art. It was a self-inspired art project I was doing between other jobs. It all ended when she got married. I never finished the series.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Up-state.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Peace and quiet.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
All of the above, depending on the moment. Most thoughts start with pictures that eventually turn into audible thoughts and conversations (words). Music only plays if it serves a purpose, like a relaxation or a motivational tool.
What really scares you about trail running?
Not being able to trail run.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
“Run, Bernie, Run!”
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
I live in Silt, because “Silt Happens.” (This could also be the title to my movie.)
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
I once saw a beautiful woman out in the wilderness. She smiled at me, then proceeded to strip down naked and jump into the high mountain lake there to go for a swim. My girlfriend happened to be with me. There were conflicted thoughts.
Alison Bryant
Age: 32, Years running: 18, Hometown: Elkin, NC, Favorite shoe: Sonic TR Womens
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
My goal is to be able to keep running, then once I am running I just want to run faster!
Do you have a claim to fame?
Not yet, maybe soon . . .
Do you have any vices?
Running. And chocolate.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
We just got a new pendulum clock, it ticks really loud.
What drives you to run?
I run for the dopamine release, running just makes me feel better.
What is your favorite movie?
Life through the Eye of a Runner. It hasn't come out yet. :)
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Not really
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
I like sleep. I like to go to bed at 10:00 every night. Hopefully I will be able to stay awake at Western States!
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Virginia, I just like that name.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Yogurt, an orange, a Fiber One bar and a small piece of pound cake that a patient gave me. While I watched her cut it, I kept thinking "Dammit woman, cut a larger piece!"
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Words, I am very concrete.
What really scares you about trail running?
Heights, cliffs, rocks, mud, mud covered rocks, rock covered mud, steep decents, snow, snow covered steep decents, ice, dogs, bees, . . . It is good to do things that scare you.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
I would be in Jason's movie, Life through the Eye of a Runner. I play the normal person.
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
I guess California so I could run all the great races out there! Somewhere warm.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
This fall Jason and I were running through a field, we ran right past a rattlesnake. Thing is, Jason was in front so he startled it and I would have been the one who got bit. The snake went to rattling, but it was not posed to strike.
Jason Bryant
Age: 37, Years running: 21, Hometown: Elkin, NC, Favorite shoe: Fireblade
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
Glorify God with my running, whether a run in the woods all alone or in a race. Stay focused on the next step and make it a good one. Run for as many years as possible, hopefully, still be running at 100. Be a unique runner.
Do you have a claim to fame?
Not really. I am just quietly weird. That is until you get to know me, then I am obviously and uniquely weird.
Do you have any vices?
I might have one, but my wife, Alison, says I shouldn't tell you what it is for your sake. But I will tell you if you ask.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
The realization that I have the opportunity to run and live, so I should make the most of both. Live exceptional, run exceptional as defined by myself. Doesn't mean all of life or every run will be good, just I made my choices and made the most of the opportunities in front of me.
What drives you to run?
Unfortunately a car drives me to most races. Actually there is just some unexplainable desire to run, a burning. And if I'm going to run, I want to try to run faster or farther. Running is one of the things I was created to do.
What is your favorite movie?
Shawshank Redemption
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Mountain goat - Kind of self-given because of my email address. Though my high school coach has said many times I climb like a mountain goat when we have been trout fishing on a stream on the side on NC mountains. I chose that email address because I run uphill or on very technical terrain much better than I can run on anything else. Also when I was a kid, there were mountain goats that roamed on the huge rock face of a local state park, Stone Mountain in NC. I admired their ability to move along the steep rocks. So basically I like thinking of myself as a mountain goat. The one other nickname is jb. We had three Jasons on my high school cross country team, so the reason is obvious. Only a handful of local people from back in the day still use that one.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
Around 38 hours, probably last weekend. No exciting reason, just traveling,
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Idaho - I'm Irish
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
To be honest, I don't remember, which would be the case most days. I eat what appeals to me at the time or whatever is in front of me. I grew up eating full cooked dinners, we didn't call it lunch, as I grew up on a family farm. Everyone worked and worked hard on our farm. I miss those lunches/dinners.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
If you could hook a thought monitor to my head, it would freak people out. All three would be going at the same time, plus random sounds, silence, smells, and movies. Most of the day, my head is constantly going. Let's just say, I think out of the box, on the box, beside the box, near the box, and without a box.
What really scares you about trail running?
Honestly, nothing. At some races with really rough terrain or bad conditions, I've been told to be careful. My response, "I don't believe in that."
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Life Through the Eye of a Runner I have actually been putting scenes together since high school. The opening has always been a runner on a trail when a stick goes into the runner's eye. It's a dramatic comedy, kind of like Monty Python or Something About Mary. One of my favorite scenes is "Nipple Washer." You'll have to ask to find out.
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
There are lots of places I'd like to live all at once or at different times, beautiful places I've been or have yet to go. Plus since I CAN live anywhere in the world, I guess I'd live right where I am at. If you don't like something change it or accept it, but take ownership of you life. As for where I live, it is kind of neat to have lived in one place my whole life and still roam in the woods where I did as a kid.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
The first time I fell down, last year. I always liked saying I had never fallen. Other than that nothing and I don't really consider that experience bad.
Matthew Byrne
Age: 34, Years running: 21, Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Favorite shoe: Fireblade
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
To keep evolving as a runner, trying new distances and race types. And someday to be that old-timer still cranking the miles.
Do you have a claim to fame?
Thwarted a running store burglary in downtown Philadelphia. The chase involved a city bus, a cab, and some barefoot running.
Do you have any vices?
I like to have a cold beer no and then
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
As a runner, I love to compete, and I enjoy unearthing my running potential. In the real world, anything that makes me laugh.
What drives you to run?
To feel fit and ready myself for a race.
What is your favorite movie?
My Cousin Vinny
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Burnzie. easy enough.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
80 hours. Competed in a waterslide marathon. No, I didn't win - 4th.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Pennsylvania. I've become a product of my surroundings. And PA does have it all.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Roast beef sandwich
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Mostly scrammbled words that only I can understand with some snapshots of my desires.
What really scares you about trail running?
nothing, except that maybe the trail will become a parking lot someday.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
'Running Home'
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Minooka, PA
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
stayed out there a bit too long, and lost the light to see. stumbled home through the weeds.
Jared Campbell
Age: 30, Years running: 8, Hometown: Salt Lake City, Favorite shoe: Fireblade
blog: http://www.door5.com
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
I want to go for the record on all the Colorado 14ers someday. Also, high on this list is the Wonderland Trail, JMT, and someday the full PCT.
Do you have a claim to fame?
In general, just trying to squeeze as much as I can out of life. In 2009 I set records in high speed canyoneering and multi-canyon linkups, ran/scrambled a bunch of rarely done peaks in Zion NP, climbed the Nose of El Capitan in 21hrs on weekend round-trip from Salt Lake City, PRd at many races including Hardrock 100 and Wasatch 100, organized a 50 mile trail run in Idaho, set an FKT on a traverse of Zion National Park, climbed 5.13 again, and most importantly, got engaged to the most wonderful woman in the world. Life simply could not get better! But, oddly enough I think it will in 2010.
Do you have any vices?
Running Naked
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
Learning new things, meeting new people, seeing new places
What drives you to run?
Being able to cover lots of ground in an efficient and simple manner is reason enough to run. Moving the way were meant to as bi-pedal hominids is deeply rewarding.
What is your favorite movie?
La Misma Luna
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Deraj : My Name Backwards
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
72 hrs. It was a test to see if I could ween myself off of sleep. Didn't work too well.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Utah
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
2 Gels & a Nuun Tablet. Totally kidding.... Fajitas!
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Pictures for sure!
What really scares you about trail running?
Not doing enough of it and forgetting how much I love it.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Simple Pleasures
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Interlaken, Switzerland
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
Hunters, dressed in full camo, scared shitless by a skinny runner wearing shoes, shorts, and a t-shirt. Once they put their weapons down and I realized I wasn't going to be shot, I got a good laugh at the situation.
Jenny Capel
Age: 37, Years running: 12, Hometown: Reno, NV, Favorite shoe: Wildcat Womens
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
To be a member of the US national 100K team (sooner rather than later) and to complete Hardrock 100 (later rather than sooner). I;m quickly approaching 40, so I hope to continue running the way i have over the past 12 years. Maybe not with the same speed, but with the same passion and desire.
Do you have a claim to fame?
I made a "rookie move" at last year's Jed Smith 50K. I had run the race 3 times previously. The course is a 3.3 mile loop and we needed to complete 9. Somewhere out on the course, my mind played a trick on me and I miscounted laps. After 8 laps, I crossed the "finish line", grateful to be done. People kept telling me i had one more lap, but I told them otherwise, until i looked at my time. Wow, I broke the course record!! ha, ha. So I headed out for my final 3.3 miles with my tail between my legs.
Do you have any vices?
Do you consider good dark chocolate and beer vices??
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
Variety and balance
What drives you to run?
The Challenge of what I can make my body do. The body is just the vehicle with the mind the engine. Once the engine blows, there isn't much left; but if I can keep the mind running strong, the body can truly do anything. Also, running for me is a huge de-stressor. I solve so many problems out on a run...it helps me focus and think clearly.
What is your favorite movie?
The Wizard of Oz
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
None unless you consider Jen
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
24:53 at the Tahoe Rim Trail 100. i took the advantage of seeing the sun rise twice, although unintentionally. It was a long day!
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Colorado---it has a little bit of everything and some of the most beautiful trails
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
a bowl of vegetable soup, banana, and of course, a piece of chocolate ( or maybe 2!)
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Definitely pictures
What really scares you about trail running?
Getting injured in the middle of nowhere, far from aid and being unable to get a cell signal for help.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
The 25 hour day
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Switzerland...I'm part Swiss and still have family there. The country has some of the most amazing trails and people. The Europeans know how to live a simple life where family comes first (work can always wait) and material items are really unimportant.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
I've never really had an encounter with an animal, but I did meet the "nausea monster" face to face at WS 100 this year. He ambushed me around mile 75 and just kept hanging on. Hopefully I'll never see him again, but beware!
Peter Fain
Age: 38, Years running: 25, Hometown: Truckee, California, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
Life is full of twists and turns so I look to my lifetime goals as only seasonal. There may come a season where my body says no more, but I hope that day never comes. That being said, more course records, the entire Pacific Crest trail (aided), and some European races, particularly in Norway.
Do you have a claim to fame?
I've been fortunate to win the Tahoe Rim 50km three times in a row, the 50 miler last year and also won the United States Snowshoe Championship in 2009. That was pretty cool and unexpected.
Do you have any vices?
Coffee seems to be a no brainer, come to think of it, I would never give it up. Mocha Java is my current blend of choice.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
Running is what gets me through the real world. I'm an anxious and awful person to be around if I'm unable to run. The intense workouts are the ones I really enjoy. To quote Bernie: "If you don't run fast, you won't run fast."
What drives you to run?
I run to stay sane, otherwise I would probably look to something else to be addicted to.
What is your favorite movie?
Since I went to film school, and both my parents worked either in Television or Film, I have a very cynical view of movies. I'd rather choose directors. Take Martin Scorsese and David Lynch put them in a blender and I'm sure my favorite movie will come out.
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
I just learned of one recently from someone I raced against in college. "The Rocker" . The reason was back then my hair was to my mid back, I had a beard and listened to Grunge and punk very loud. More recently I'm called gazelle every now and then because I'm tall and skinny.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
That would have to be when I was in the Army. We did many exercises with sleep deprivation. I know I went 60 hours in basic training. I'm not a fan. I like to sleep.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
California. Everyone seems to pick there home state and I'm no different. Diverse in many ways and you never know exactly what your going to get.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Huevos rancherous (well brunch) I was at work. Today I had a big bowl of Chili after a snowshoe.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Pictures for sure.
What really scares you about trail running?
I rarely run in the dark, not a fan. But I have been scared on a run I did Napa one year. I through this one area and I constantly felt like there was a big cat in the trees above my head ready have some lunch. There had been a mountain lion attach recently so it was fresh in my mind.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
The unusual tale of life, art, drugs, and love through the eyes of a running addict.
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
I grew up on my grandparents farm in Norway. Some of the best memories of my life. I would love to have more than one home base. One in Norway and one in California.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
Drunk hunters at a trail head when I was finishing a long run. Long story short, side arms were pulled from holsters and I walked backwards to my car. Needless to say I drove straight to the sheriffs office.
Don Gallogly
Age: 42, Years running: 3, Hometown: Corvallis, Oregon, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
blog: http://trailrunningcalendar.blogspot.com/
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
To run for the rest of my life.
Do you have a claim to fame?
I have worn the same pants size since high school.
Do you have any vices?
I don't use sunscreen.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
I run because I love being able to be out in all conditions. Running up the same mountain can be a completely unique experience depending on whether it's raining, snowing or clear sky. In the rest of my life I also like to consider the ways that changing conditions affect our perceptions.
What drives you to run?
I run day-to-day because I enjoy being out in the world away from other people. Trail running is the best way to accomplish that. But I race because I also like being around other runners.
What is your favorite movie?
I have many favorite movies. My favorite running movie is Without Limits, the Steve Prefontaine story. I also like Marathon Man and the parts of Forrest Gump when he runs back-and-forth across the country.
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
No nicknames.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
I can sleep just about anywhere so going without has rarely ever been a consideration. As a teen-ager I used to enjoy staying up to watch the sunrise. I once spent a stormy night in the forward observation lounge of a ferry from Juneau to Seattle watching waves break over the bow and crash against the windows.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
There's an old Soundgarden song that goes, "I'm lookin' California... Feelin' Minnesota" I was never sure what that meant.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Peanut butter and jelly sandwich, cheese, tangerines, yogurt and electrolyte replacement drink.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Words
What really scares you about trail running?
Running is meditative. It doesn't scare me. Other sports (rock and alpine climbing, downhill skiing) scare me sometimes.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
What am I going to do now?
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
I've lived and visited a few places in the world and haven't found any place more completely satisfying than here in the Willamette Valley of western Oregon.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
People who pick up their dog-poop and then leave it beside the trail like a little blue land-mine (presumably they are going to pick it up on the way out).
Adam Gifford
Age: 35, Years running: 10, Hometown: Orlando, FL, Favorite shoe: Skylite
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
Complete Badwater, complete Hardrock, be that 72 year old guy who still runs 100's.
Do you have a claim to fame?
I once drove from Phoenix to Philadelphia straight for 45 hours...it was great sleep deprivation training.
Do you have any vices?
I don't go to the dentist (but my teeth are still perfect).
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
I'm addicted to racing; I would race every week if I could (and I almost do).
What drives you to run?
The fame and fortune!!
What is your favorite movie?
So many to choose from...I DIDNT like The Godfather which makes me different than everyone else in the world.
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
My old nickname was Giff, becasue apparently Adam is far too much effort to pronounce. Now I go by "The Professor" because, um, I'm a professor.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
I was awake for 60 hours when I drove cross country nonstop on a dare (many of the stupid things that I have dont end with the phrase "on a dare"...that includes my first 100 miler).
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Canada (well they are pretty close to being one of the 50, but don't tell them that I told you)
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Whole wheat bagel, cheese, apple, coffee, sunshine.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
You would probably just here crickets.
What really scares you about trail running?
Having a job that takes up too much time which would prevent me from trail running.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
The 35 year old Adolescent.
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
In an RV, becasue living is one place is just too boring.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
The aid station that I had just left (I realized that I got lost and went in a circle and ran LOTS of extra miles during an ultra).
Nicola Gildersleeve
Age: 26, Years running: 6, Hometown: Squamish, British Columbia, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
blog: http://www.ngildersleeve.blogspot.com
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
I want my running to take me to some of the most beautiful places in the world. Some of my future big goal races include, badwater, UTMB, hardrock, wasatch, trans alps...the list is always growing. I would also like to complete the John Muir trail, the Appalachian trail, and maybe a run across Canada (dream big)!
Do you have a claim to fame?
I run downhill like a madWOman. Nothing gives me more satisfaction that ripping a gnarly technical descent. I have the scares on my knees to prove it!
Do you have any vices?
Home baked goodies like cookies and muffins.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
I love exploring new places and being with people who are totally stoked to be out adventering with me.
What drives you to run?
Curiosity, physical challenge, and a little bit of craziness.
What is your favorite movie?
I'm going to cheat and pick a T.V series: Dexter!
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
My last name is Gildersleeve so I often get...Gilder, Gilda, and Sleeves,
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
I think it was during the Western States 100 mile race last year. I must have been awake for over 35 hours.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Sadly, being Canadian I am not too familiar with all 50 states. If I had to pick a province it would be British Columbia because it has everything to offer to the endurance junkie.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
I was away ski touring and after skiing a lap on the most amazing untouched powder I had 2 rye crackers with aged cheeder and a stick of lanjager!
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Definetly music, it's like a 24 hour dance party in my head.
What really scares you about trail running?
Encountering a bear or a cougar when I am running solo.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Mountain Life
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
I could live anywhere as long as it had mountains for me to run/ski/bike, coean for me to swim, and rock for me to climb.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
My boyfriend encoutnered a bear while course marking high up in the mountains for the Fat Dog 100 trail race. Luckily, he knew exactly what to do and took the lead. While I, shaking in my crosslites, made noise anf follwed slowly behind him.
Bruce Grant
Age: 44, Years running: 22, Hometown: Delta, BC, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
blog: http://lonerunman.blogspot.com
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
To run across the province of BC on one of two routes: preferably the rough trail used by explorer Alexander MacKenzie, or on the "easier" 1600km Trans-Canada Trail
Do you have a claim to fame?
The only local Vancouver runner (so far) to have finished Hardrock.
Do you have any vices?
I really really like well-hopped microbrewed beer. (is that a vice?) I also like Duran Duran.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
Embrace where you are. You can learn from your past, but can't change it - take stock of the present and work towards improving the future.
What drives you to run?
Overall, a desire to constantly challenge myself and achieve things I never thought personally possible. But the daily training I need to do to achieve all that also helps me keep my girlish figure
What is your favorite movie?
Lawrence of Arabia. Either that, or Office Space.
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
lonerunman This came about due to the fact that I usually run by myself, and also as a bit of a tongue-in-cheek reference to JFK
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
about 48 hours at the Coyote 2 Moon 100-mile run.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Nunavut
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
tuna sashimi and a negitori roll
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
music would be playing, and I would be behind the drum kit with the band, facing the audience.
What really scares you about trail running?
Not much, fear can prevent you from heading out the door or trying something new. If you prepare and have a positive attitude, there's nothing to fear. However, my only worry would be getting caught in a lightning storm with no shelter nearby - there's not much you can do about that.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
They Call Me Bruce
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Nelson, BC
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
It was with hunger and humility, when a run in the Mount Baker wilderness I thought would take 5 hours turned into a 10-hour epic. I was out of food and on my knees eating blueberries from bushes to get calories and reach the end of the trail.
Derek Griffiths
Age: 34, Years running: 25, Hometown: Greenfield, OH, Favorite shoe: Fireblade
blog: http://www.coloradorunnermag.com/blogs/dgriffiths
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
To run a marathon in all 50 states.
Do you have a claim to fame?
I am the owner of Colorado Runner, the only running magazine in Colorado.
Do you have any vices?
Dogs not on a leash
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
I am pretty competitive and I try to be the best at what ever i do.
What drives you to run?
I try to run faster then the last time out.
What is your favorite movie?
Braveheart
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Gus - My grandpa called me that. I am not sure why.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
40 hours - during the Hood to Coast relay.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Ohio
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Frozen pizza
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Music would be playing.
What really scares you about trail running?
Two things - getting bitten by a dog or getting shot by a hunter.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Mr Inconsistancy
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Where I am right now.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
I scared the pants off a bow hunter once. All the other encounters are from dogs.
Andy Jones-Wilkins
Age: 42, Years running: 15, Hometown: Ketchum, Idaho, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
blog: http://ajwsblog.blogspot.com
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
Masters Course Record at WS. 10 Finishes at WS 10 Finishes at HRH
Do you have a claim to fame?
I am the ultrarunning philosopher (aka AJW). Shameless in my love of running I am unapologetic in this regard. And, I finished 2nd at WS in 2005
Do you have any vices?
I do enjoy beer, even on the night before races.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
I have a full-time job as an educator, am a father of three, and really, really enjoy hours on the trail in spite of and as a result of the above.
What drives you to run?
Simply being out there doing what I love.
What is your favorite movie?
Tin Cup
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
AJW or ajizzlewizzle
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
32 hours. Hardrock 100, of course.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Maine
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Burger and fries washed down with a cold beer.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
See pictures
What really scares you about trail running?
I can't lie, nothing. But, with a gun to my head, I'd say, falling off a cliff and dying.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Get it right!
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Auburn, CA
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
Snow Leopard in Nepal in 1995
Megan Kimmel
Age: 29, Years running: 2, Hometown: Silverton, CO, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
To be able to keep exploring new places near and far.
Do you have a claim to fame?
No
Do you have any vices?
Not so much
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
Making the most of life.
What drives you to run?
My VW Turbo Diesel Jetta, 45 miles per gallon! Thanks Emich VW of Denver for hooking it up!
What is your favorite movie?
Braveheart. Though I have watched it so much that I don't watch it anymore.
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Throughout life, many. Now, not really unless you consider my last name one.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
72 hours. I worked an overnight job and for many reasons couldn't sleep during the day.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
I guess Colorado cause that is where I am from.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
A big bowl of powder snow, its December.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
See pictures
What really scares you about trail running?
Nothing
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
"Lushing"
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Live I presently live is number one for me though I would love to live in Europe to be around a bigger population and foreign land.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
A suspended tree trunk to the forehead.
Sara Montgomery
Age: 38, Years running: 13, Hometown: Yarker, Ontario, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
blog: http://saratraining.blogspot.com
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
Longer fastpacks, more stage races, try some 50 and 100 milers, and explore many more beautiful trails.
Do you have a claim to fame?
Among runners, no, but all the stuff that is normal to runners is weird to everyone else I know.
Do you have any vices?
Coffee
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
Being true to myself. Discovering what I authentically enjoy and genuinely believe, and trying to live my life according to that.
What drives you to run?
At its most basic, I love being outside, getting a fix of nature and breathing in fresh air. I also love training towards goals and feeling fit.
What is your favorite movie?
'Big Fish', an amazing Tim Burton adventure.
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Nothing that has really stuck.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
I miss an occassional night, mostly for running-related reasons like crewing.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Alaska or Oregon
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Avacado and tomato sandwich, apple, tea
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Running replaces my usual mind chatter with serene pictures.
What really scares you about trail running?
Getting injured and being far from help.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Once A Trail Runner...
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
My fantasy address: Cabin in Woods, Valley Lake, Middle of Nowhere
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
At Killarney Provincial Park when we got soaked by rain and were chilled to the bone for hours in our soggy camp.
Bronwyn Morrissey
Age: 43, Years running: 20, Hometown: Superior CO, Favorite shoe: Wildcat Womens
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
to keep running as long as I can
Do you have a claim to fame?
my only claim to fame is how busy my life is with training, three kids and a corporate job where I travel a lot. I am often asked how I do it all but running keeps me sane
Do you have any vices?
coffe and red wine! ok Chocolate too
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
This year it has been adventure runs and exploring new places
What drives you to run?
my friends are a huge motivation
What is your favorite movie?
La Femme Nikita
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Brony from my swim coach growing up because I could do more bar dips than anyone on the team. The nick name stuck and my husband has been calling me that for years
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
when I had kids- many nights
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Carolina- South because I lived there for a summer
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
pork burrito and the second half for dinner!
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
silence and awareness when I am either on a super long run or meditating
What really scares you about trail running?
mountain lions when I am alone
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
How to make a life as busy as possible
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Here in colorado
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
running with a friend who got heat stroke in the Grand Canyon and I was very worried and it was dark
Layna Mosley
Age: 38, Years running: 26, Hometown: Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
blog: http://theimbalancingact.blogspot.com/
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
Complete the Grand Slam (Western States, Vermont, Leadville and Wasatch 100s); run Rim to Rim to Rim (Grand Canyon); Hard Rock 100; run one of the distances at the Uwharrie Mountain Run with each of my daughters (now 2 and 4).
Do you have a claim to fame?
NYC Marathon at 26 weeks pregnant. Last baby born in Marion County, Florida in 1971.
Do you have any vices?
Ice cream, and almost any sort of stout or porter. Staying out too long on the local trails, or lingering too long post-run at the local coffee shop, rather than getting to work.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
A bit of obsessive-compulsiveness, probably. An unrealistic desire to balance all sorts of things, including running and racing; working as a political science professor at a research university; parenting two young, lovely and very energetic little girls; and trying to be a good spouse and partner to my (very patient) husband.
What drives you to run?
The sense that, until I run, my day isn't complete, and I'm not at ease. The desire to see how far I can push myself, sometimes in terms of distance, other times in terms of just getting out of bed in the cold and dark to get in my long run. And the promise of finding beauty when I run, both on my local trails and in the places I travel to for work and races.
What is your favorite movie?
I'm not sure I have an all time favorite. More recently, maybe Slumdog Millionaire. Before that, the Princess Bride, Fargo. And Bull Durham, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, the Breakfast Club.
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Willow - my trail name, bestowed upon me by the Trailheads, my local trailrunning club (and surrogate family, truth be told) in Chapel Hill/Carrboro, NC. I'm just as likely to answer to Willow as I am to my given name.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
40 hours, surrounding my first 100 miler, Cascade Crest, in 2009. The race has a leisurely 10am start, so I was up early, did the race, finished early afternoon, and then stayed up for dinner etc.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Wyoming. No idea why, but it would sound cool.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
I missed lunch yesterday...it was Christmas Day, and I was out for a run at lunchtime!
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
A combination of all three.
What really scares you about trail running?
Falling off of a really steep trail in the middle of the night, probably somewhere along the Hard Rock course.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Super Trouper (after an ABBA song)
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Hard to decide: Cape Town, South Africa; Wellington, New Zealand; London, England; Boulder; Vancouver?
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
I've been lucky so far -- can't think of anything worse than a copperhead or two on a mid-day summer run.
Susan Nuzum
Age: 43, Years running: 19, Hometown: Boulder CO, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
I'd like to be able to run injury-free for a long time to come. There are also so many great races and places to run out there; I'd like to be able to travel to run and have great adventures.
Do you have a claim to fame?
I was hit in the head by a squirrel while out running one day. He tried to jump from a fence to a tree and I was in the middle. I screamed like a little girl then looked around to make sure that no one was watching.
Do you have any vices?
Red wine.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
The thing that I love most about running is being outside, especially on the trails. A long run goes by so easily and quickly when I'm out on a sunny day running with my dog Elsa. And you meet the nicest people running and at races.
What drives you to run?
My '99 Toyota 4Runner.
What is your favorite movie?
Ferris Buehler's Day Off
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Juan - don't remember how it started, but I got it in junior high school.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
During a test out the course run for the Wild West Relay - we almost got run over in the middle of the night by ATV-ers and came close to hiting a cow in the middle of the road in Wyoming - it was only 12 of us, so it was a little unnerving. Went two days without sleep and had to pull over on the drive home and take a nap.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Carolina - that's a nice name, but I've never been there, so I'm not sure about the place.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Leftovers.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Music, of course.
What really scares you about trail running?
Doing a face plant into a rock, which I almost did a few years ago at the Barr Trail race.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Must Love Dogs.
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
I'd spend summers in Boulder and winters on Kauai, with occasional ski trips of course.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
Someone talking on their cell phone.
Leor Pantilat
Age: 25, Years running: 12, Hometown: San Carlos, CA, Favorite shoe: Fireblade
blog: http://pantilat.wordpress.com/
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
John Muir Trail FKT, Wonderland Trail (encircling Mount Rainier), Northern Picket Range Speed Traverse (North Cascades National Park), fast 50ks
Do you have a claim to fame?
Climbing remote mountains fast, FKTs on Mount Olympus and the Ptarmigan Traverse, 2009 Way Too Cool 50k champ, 2009 Ohlone Wilderness 50k champ and CR
Do you have any vices?
Running on closed trails or private land.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
As a runner, singletrack in the mountains or forest. In the real world, talking to people about running and weather.
What drives you to run?
Seeing wild, rugged, and scenic places.
What is your favorite movie?
Gladiator
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Lungs and legs
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
40 hours. I couldn't sleep the night before an adventure run!
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Washington
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
PB&J in whole wheat pita, apple, yogurt
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Hear words
What really scares you about trail running?
I'm addicted to it.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Running the mountains
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Woodside, CA - great weather and great trails
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
Nightfall without a headlamp.
Daryn Parker
Age: 28, Years running: 22, Hometown: Manitou Springs, Colorado, Favorite shoe: Fireblade
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
You can’t beat science, at some point we all get old and slow. My lifetime running goal is to not lose sight of why I run and enjoy the sport, even after the medals and trophies disappear. I really look up to runners in their 70+ in age that are still getting out and mixing it up.
Do you have a claim to fame?
Most of my claims to fame involve eating, drinking, or other activities I shouldn’t be proud of. I make a ¾ pound burger that has gotten me some serious street cred.
Do you have any vices?
I’m not much of a carpenter, but I do have some vices and miscellaneous wood working tools. Actually I probably have more vices than good habits. Sarcasm, mint chocolate chip ice cream, cheap beer, western wear, over-eating, I’ll stop there.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
I guess my philosophy on life is there are numerous things in life you have to do; eat, sleep, pay the bills, etc. You should make doing the necessary things as fun as possible and everything that is outside of the necessary should definitely by enjoyable. I run because in enjoy it, when I don’t enjoy it, I don’t do it. There is nothing wrong with going on a 3 hour run and taking a nap for 2 hours of it. Do what you have to when you have to do it, but make up your own rules when you can.
What drives you to run?
I enjoy running, but I also need running. If I don’t run, I can get like a caged animal. I need some sort of activity or I drive the people around me nuts. Sometimes the pain of a hard workout really lets you know you are alive. There is something primal that a good run in the mountains satisfies.
What is your favorite movie?
I’m more of a TV series guy. I’m really into “The Wire” and “Arrested Development”.
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
I don’t have any nicknames. I guess people keep what they call me to themselves.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
I’m a sleeper, not a sleep depriver. Most people are amazed that I get 9 hours a night. I guess 30 hours or so would be my longest bout without sleep, not very impressive.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
I’d go with Kansas. I’m from the state, have family still there and love the people. You can get -40 degree wind chills and 110 degree summers, if you spend any significant amount of time outdoors, you’ll get tough quick. I’m starting to worry that the mild Colorado weather is making me soft.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Peanut butter sandwich and a banana.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Music.
What really scares you about trail running?
Mountain Lions and Giardia.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Super Bad II. I’d probably be played by Steven Segal; he’s got a great comic sensibility, plus the resemblance thing.
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
It probably doesn’t sound that exciting or adventurous, but I would probably stay put in Manitou Springs. When you consider all factors, we have great weather, I can leave my house and run up a 14’er and only be on a road for a couple minutes, nice community, good people; it’s hard to beat. There are a lot of places that might have better mountains or are closer to skiing, but they don’t have the total package.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
Last summer I ran up Rampart Range Road and dropped down into Williams Canyon via the trail behind the gun range. As I began down the canyon, I heard a bullet whistle by me and hit the tree 10 feet in front of me. I turned to run back out and heard a second bullet hit in the opposite direction. I ducked underneath a large tree and waited for the gunfire to stop. After a couple of minutes, I got a break and sprinted down the trail. I doubt anyone was intentionally shooting at me, but they definitely weren’t shooting where they were supposed to. Needless to say that is no longer a route in my repertoire.
Ellen Parker
Age: 32, Years running: 26, Hometown: Seattle, WA, Favorite shoe: Fireblade Womens
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
To run on trail injury-free. To run long trails such as the Appalachian Trail, The Inca Trail, and The John Muir Trail. To combine running with climbing some of the bigger mountains. To improve my ascending. To enter competitions and feel confident about my ability to push harder and faster.
Do you have a claim to fame?
no
Do you have any vices?
Coffee.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
Helping others. My time in the woods. Spending time with the family and friends that I love on or off the trail. Positivity. Experiencing life in other cultures and of course their food!
What drives you to run?
At this point I believe it's an innate need for my mind, body, and spirit. It's also simple and free.
What is your favorite movie?
Deerhunter
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
smelley elley, little parker, shelby thanks to my sister. sporadica for my changing levels of energy on the trail.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
Probably close to 40 hours when my bro and I climbed Mt Whitney. We were up most of the day preparing for the climb which began at midnight. 17 miles of trail, 12 pitches of rock in a single push, we finished 24 hours later!
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
I'm from Maine where we are known as mainiacs.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
sushi
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
MUSIC
What really scares you about trail running?
Large mammals and sometimes even the smaller ones.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Work, Eat, Sleep, Play, Repeat.
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Seattle. We have the best of both worlds here!
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
One day mama bear wouldn't move off the trail so I had to bushwack a few miles to the road. Another time a mountain lion was stalking my friend and I. Luckily, we spotted it and took off in the other direction. My last image of that cat was of it lying down and licking it's chops as we bolted away.
Thomas Reiss
Age: 43, Years running: 15, Hometown: San Luis Obispo, California, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
blog: http://www.thomasreiss.com
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
Run a cool ultra race together with my boys when they are old enough. Right now they are 4 and 6 years old so it will be a little while.
Do you have a claim to fame?
Course record at the Tahoe Rim Trail 50 miler (7:52). Starter at both IAU World Challenges Ultra Trail on the German National Team.
Do you have any vices?
Good Beer.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
Trying to be better next time. Never stop trying.
What drives you to run?
Experiencing great places and hoping to run fast in races.
What is your favorite movie?
Home alone
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Don't have one, I hate when people call me Tom. Often people refer top me as "The German". (since I am German)
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
About 48 hours, when I was 15. A bunch of my friends and I went camping and just decided to not sleep.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
California
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
California Turkey Sandwich from High Street Deli.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
I think pictures.
What really scares you about trail running?
That it hurts more then I am prepared for.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Thomas Reiss - What's next.
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
San Luis Obispo - Lake Tahoe - Pfälzer Wald (Germany)
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
That it hurts way more then I was hoping for.
Natalie Sims
Age: 36, Years running: 10, Hometown: Chattanooga, TN, Favorite shoe: Fireblade Womens
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
Western States, Tour de Monte Blanc
Do you have a claim to fame?
Some claim that I am Mrs.Clean. No matter how muddy, or awful the conditions on the trail I manage to appear like i hardly ran the race at all.
Do you have any vices?
Caffeine. It owns me.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
The experience of the outdoors. In the real world it's all about continually learning, growng, loving others.
What drives you to run?
The feeling of acomplishment. Whether it is a training run or race day at the end of it all, there is no denying how sweet it is to acheive
What is your favorite movie?
Pretty Woman
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Not that I know of.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
Probably 24 hours. My first 100 mile attempt at Tahoe. 4am - 4am, but I have a feeling it may have actually have been in college.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Definetly not Idaho. Hawaii could work. I have never been but beach, island, sunshine. Sounds like my happy place.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Builder Bar
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Pictures
What really scares you about trail running?
I am not scared. Yet, fearing the "what if" never benifitted me any.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
In The Moment
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
I think I sold myself on Hawaii.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
My face planted in the dirt. It comes with the sport.
Derrick Spafford
Age: 43, Years running: 28, Hometown: Yarker, Ontario, Canada, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
blog: http://www.healthandadventure.com/
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
To run further, faster and higher than I ever thought possible. Race wise, I would love to represent Canada at some international ultrarunning events.
Do you have a claim to fame?
I have a running streak in that I haven’t taken a day off from running since December 25, 1989.
Do you have any vices?
Beer, pizza, cinnamon buns and jujubes
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
Balance and consistency. I need my daily fix of running on the trails and in the woods for everything else in my life to make sense
What drives you to run?
The joy of being at one with nature.
What is your favorite movie?
We got rid of our TV a number of years ago, so don’t really watch many movies. If I had to pick one though, I’d say ‘Hard Core Logo’. Basically it’s a Canadian Punk version of the Blues Brothers.
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
“Spaff”. Short form of my last name that probably started when I was playing hockey as a kid. Everyone had a nickname when you played hockey.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
The longest I’ve gone without sleep was during my first 100miler. I was exhausted but excited, so don’t think I really slept most of the next day.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Since I live in Canada, I’ll say that I would want to be named ‘Yukon’.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Banana Split Sandwich (banana, peanut butter & jam)
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Definitely music. I love music, but never run with it, so you’d probably hear The Pogues blasting quite loudly in my head.
What really scares you about trail running?
Injury
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Confessions of a Running Streaker
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
North-Western Canada
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
I’ve encountered a number of bears on the trail, but they’ve never bothered me as they just take off in the other direction. I've had a couple of close calls with skunks too. My worst encounter was a nasty hole caused by an all terrain vehicle resulting in a broken ankle.
Mark Tanaka
Age: 43, Years running: 30, Hometown: Castro Valley, CA, Favorite shoe: Wildcat
blog: http://ultrailnaka.blogspot.com
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
to continue to run lots of ultras, while still being a great dad and husband. would be cool to get 100 100-milers under my belt, and to be able to finish ultras into my 70's.
Do you have a claim to fame?
I suspect I'm one of the few, if not the only, person to finish first and last in a 100-mile race.
Do you have any vices?
I sometimes covet others' race schedules, but for someone with my job and two small kids, I think I do pretty well. Post-long-run gluttony, though given how skinny I am, probably not a vice.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
sometimes competition and camrederie, but more often just chances to escape the stresses of civilization or eat a lot of yummy food
What drives you to run?
Exercise withdrawal feels too awful, and swimming laps gets boring pretty fast.
What is your favorite movie?
I no longer have the leisure to pick favorites independently my kids' current tastes, which last week included "Up."
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
Also dictated by my two young kids, sometimes inappropriate.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
about 50 hours to drive to and finish the 2009 McNaughton 150 mile trail run. This does not answer the question of Why? Why, I ask, do I do stuff like that?
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
DC, the unrepresented non-state, in the center of it all, yet outside the box. Dakota Tanaka has a ring to it, but that's two states.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
leftovers. cooked by my wife. still yummy.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
all of the above, then everyone starts dancing
What really scares you about trail running?
something happening so I could no longer do it
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Another False Summit
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
I like where I am (the Bay Area), but could use a bigger house with another bedroom and a real yard. Living at high altitude would help me overcome my trail running Achilles heel.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
whole body cramping causing me to fall onto and writhe on the ground for several minutes at mile 68 of the 2008 Rio del Lago 100 mile trail run
Joshua Wheeler
Age: 23, Years running: 13, Hometown: Durham, NC, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
blog: http://jrwheeler.blogspot.com/
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
My lifetime running goals outside competition would be to achieve a sense of balance between work, family and running. My competitive running goals would be to break 2:30 for the marathon, 1:10 for the half and win a 100 miler.
Do you have a claim to fame?
I am a five year brain cancer surviver.
Do you have any vices?
Coffee. Need I say more. Pound per pound, I consume more caffiene than my little body should be able to handle.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
I am a competitive person. I love the thrill of competition and mental chess game that goes on in the late stages of a race. I a delayed gratification kind of guy. The more work and energy I invest into a project (either work or training) the greater the accomplishment when I achieve the result I was initially aiming for.
What drives you to run?
It is my release from the everyday. I feel uplifted and rejuvenated when I run. No matter how long the day/week/month/year, I can always return to running and find peace of mind.
What is your favorite movie?
Currently: Chasing Legends Previously: Without Limits
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
The Yellow Dart. I guess it is now fitting since La Sportiva's colors are yellow. The Yellow Dart is simply put the coolest nickname ever. I cannot take credit for it, the nickname comes from my highschool cross country team watching the cartoon StrongBad before practice.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
Somewhere between two and three days. My girlfriend and I flew to Tanzanzia to work in a special needs school. The trip to Africa and back was brutial with close to 50 hours of travel.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Utah. Because it is my boss's name (spelled differently though). I thought that was kind of cool.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
An alvocado,spinach,mushroom wrap on a whole week tortilla. I love nutrition! (Oh, and some dark chocolate)
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
I would be curious to find out myself because I am not exactly sure what goes on up there.
What really scares you about trail running?
Hypothermia.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Hey, Ya'll Watch This.
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Somewhere with mountains.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
Being confronted by two armed military national guards in Tanzanizan backcountry. Scary.
Bill Wright
Age: 48, Years running: 25, Hometown: Superior, Colorado, Favorite shoe: Crosslite
blog: http://web.me.com/billwright510/Mobile_Me_Site/Trail_Running_Blog/Trail_Running_Blog.html
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
I've done most of my running goals, at least speed-wise (sub 40 minutes at the Bolder Boulder, sub 5 hours at the Pikes Peak Marathon) and distance-wise (Leadville 100 in my first and only try). I guess I'd still like to break 12 hours at the San Juan Summer Solstice 50-miler, finish in the age-group awards at the Pikes Peak Marathon, and use my running fitness for speedy climbing ascents, like the Grand Traverse in the Tetons.
Do you have a claim to fame?
My claim to fame is being the first person to ski the 1911 Gully on the Third Flatiron above Boulder, Colorado, co-author of the book Speed Climbing, race director of the Rattlesnake Ramble and the Tour de Flatirons scrambling series, and I'm the keeper of the local speed records, on the trails, road, and rock.
Do you have any vices?
I have many vices but my worst is probably that I'm easily distracted and am interested in so many things that I bounce around and lose my focus. I also watch too much TV and eat too many carbs
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
I like to challenge myself and I like to measure my performance. I am a fastidious record keeper. I like adventure and competition and go back and forth between doing races and doing big mountain or desert adventures that involve technical climbing.
What drives you to run?
Eating! Seriously, a significant factor in exercising is to enjoy eating more. But the major factor is just that it feels great to work hard, to sweat, to breathe hard, and to go to beautiful places and be alone in the wilderness.
What is your favorite movie?
My favorite movies are The Man From Snowy River, Braveheart, Dances With Wolves, and A Few Good Men
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
My main nickname is Plan Man because I like to plan out my year and sometimes plan years in advance. I think if you don't plan to get great things done, then you reduce your chances of getting great things done. Each year I write down a set of goals for the year and plan my climbing/running/adventure trips for the entire year.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
I've gone about 43 hours without sleep during the Leadville 100 and a couple of 34-hour adventure races. I've also pulled "all nighters" studying at school and working at my job.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
It would have to Colorado for its great mountains, trail running, kayaking, mountain biking and it's accessibility to communities where technology jobs exist.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
A banana, yogurt, granola bar, a couple of cookies, and a hard-boiled egg, but that's healthier than I usually eat. Today I had pizza.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
You'd see and hear all three. I frequently run with an iPod where I either listen to an audiobook or inspirational music. When listening to a good on a calorie-burning run, I feel I'm doubling my productivity. I'm getting exercise and I'm learning something from my book.
What really scares you about trail running?
What scares me most about running is injuries, especially twisting or breaking an ankle by running too fast in highly technical terrain. For this reason I try to limit the number of times I really push the pace on a rocky descent. I frequently go up hard, but take it easy on the way down.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
The movie would be called "Just Do It...All!" I have a wide variety of interests and I'm working my through all of them.
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
'd live the summer in Chamonix, France or Cortina, Italy and then fall in Sedona, Arizona and winter in Maui, to keep the wife happy.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
I haven't had a significantly bad encounter on the trail if you don't count impacting the trail when I fall. I do occasionally pass people that seem to get annoyed that I'm running where they are hiking, but these people are rare. Where when I was younger I might react angrily, now I try to kill them with kindness and humility. I've also nearly run into the back end of a bull moose before, but it turned out to be a great encounter. Also, I've been charged by a couple of wild bison, but once I took flight they gave up the chase.
Nathan Yanko
Age: 27, Years running: 13, Hometown: San Francisco California, Favorite shoe: Fireblade
blog: http://foodandtrailrunning.blogspot.com/
What are some of your lifetime running goals?
I would like to continue to explore quiet trails, make it over passes, and look at the world in ways that few people choose to.
Do you have a claim to fame?
I am known for having the appropriate job to compliment my running. Working at a bakery allows me to fuel my body on high quality food to keep me going on the trails.
Do you have any vices?
I would rather be making-out than stretching. That and eating ice cream. I try and find a nice middle ground though, and I really don't feel bad about either of them.
What makes you tick as a runner and in the real world?
I enjoy those moments of getting out the door and not having to think about anything other than my breathing and where my next foot-fall is going to be. There is something so spectacular about knowing you are going to be outside and not necessarily doing anything for an entire day, sometimes entire night as well. This feeling of anticipation for the next chance I can get out the door and onto the trail is what makes me tick in the real world.
What drives you to run?
I enjoy the time to myself away from everything that might seem important. This allows me to re-evaluate and realize what actually is important.
What is your favorite movie?
The Sound of Music (preferably the sing-along at the Castro Theater, it's a total movie experience).
Do you have any nicknames? Explain:
I have acquired a handful of nicknames over the years. Most of them make no sense but some of them hit me right on the nose: Procrastinate- I tend to leave things until the last minute. Natalio- what my Hispanic friends refer to me. OvenNator- I bake.
What’s the longest you’ve gone without sleep? Why?
Sleep is too important to me and I get cranky if I don’t get enough of it. I guess I just try and forget the times I don’t get sleep.
If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?
Ohio. It just explains me. Ohio is where I grew up and where I acquired many of my mannerisms and personality traits. That and you have to represent your home state.
What did you have for lunch yesterday?
Rancho Gordo Vallarta baked beans with bacon, slow cooked Happy Boy collard greens, Primavera corn tortillas, avocado, Sierra Navada Creamery chevre, Allagash Curieux barrel aged ale, and Christmas cookies.
If you could hook up a thought monitor to your head, would you see pictures, hear words or would music be playing?
Music
What really scares you about trail running?
Falling and knocking out my teeth.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
Arduous but pretty damn good.
Where would you live if it could be anywhere in the world?
Where I am now. Bay Area California.
What’s your worst encounter on the trail?
Weekend warrior mountain bikers on single track.
