So, here I am, penning this down with 102 days standing between me and the start of Hardrock 100. That's like, what, 15 weekends away? But hey, who's really keeping track? It's kind of mind-boggling to realize that something I've been anticipating for 8 long years is now just a blink away from becoming a reality.
Climbing outside of Cunningham Gulch toward Green Mountain, 2021 by Hilary Yang
As I lay down the foundation blocks that will hopefully get me to that starting line feeling all strong and empowered, ready to conquer and kiss that rock, there's this undercurrent of nervous energy. Is that normal? I mean, I'm putting in the work, ticking off all the boxes, but there's this nagging feeling that maybe I should be doing more. Do you ever feel like that? Like you're giving it your all, but a part of you wonders if it's really enough? (takes another gulp of water nervously)
Grant Swamp Pass 2017
So, what's different this time around compared to my past mountain hundreds? Well, for starters, I've enlisted the help of a coach (hello, Hannah Allgood). Hard to believe, I know, but if I want to tackle something as unique as Hardrock, I need to step out of my comfort zone. No more sandbagging all my training for me. You'll find me hitting the hills for repeats on Fern Truck Trail or doing tempo runs and VO2 workouts at the Rose Bowl. No, I'm not suddenly a road runner, but sometimes you need a flat spot for those flat workouts, and the Rose Bowl fits the bill.
Kendall mountain, Silverton 2018
Next I've added strength training back into my routine. And let me tell you, it's like a rollercoaster of feelings - a real love-hate thing. I decided to rejoin Ganbatte, that gym I used to be all about, back in the day when I was a wee youngin. But man, I don't remember feeling this sore! Is it because I'm getting old? But hey, I know how important strength training is for runners and just everyone in general. It's a blast while you're doing it and I’m very competitive, but oh boy, the next day is a whole different story. Ever tried running uphill with legs that feel like jelly? It's a whole mood. But you know what they say, it's all about the building a foundation, right?
Grant Swamp Pass 2016
You know, the gym isn't just about lifting weights and getting strong. It's about finding your tribe, your community. I mean, I love running with friends and meeting new people on trail, but there's something special about the gym vibe. It's this unique blend of people coming together, all sharing this new kind of crazy drive to push themselves. And you know what? I'm totally here for it. It's like a whole new level of connection, and I'm loving every minute of it.
Silverton, 2021 with Hilary
Why am I sharing this now? Lately, I've been in a bit of a social media slump. I haven't felt the urge to share much, and my blog has been gathering digital dust. But I'm making an effort to turn that around. In today's world of social media, it feels like everything is under a microscope, more so than ever before. I've always been open about my training and thoughts, but lately, I've hesitated, feeling like my words might not be well-received in this new landscape.
Kendall Mountain, 2022
Well, I've decided to change that, call it a new chapter. I'm going to document what I want, when I want, and how I want. If people enjoy reading it, that's great. If not, that's perfectly okay too. It's time to embrace my voice and share my journey, unapologetically. Here's to breaking free from the social media pressures and sharing authentically or at least trying to. If I don't post this soon, it'll probably end up sitting in my draft folder for a year or two, joining the dozen or so others already there.
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