During my 5 mile run in the heat today, I came up with an idea. I wanted to do something larger than a marathon, since I've done that. The idea of running 4-5 continuous hours just didn't do it for me. And then I thought...
How about if I run 48 miles in 48 hours? I could run 5 or 6 miles at a clip, take a rest and then start back up. Avoiding highways, Concord, NH to Nashua, NH would be about 46 miles. I could certainly find another 2 miles somewhere in there.
I could stay over night somewhere halfway in between and then finish the next day. I'd do it over a weekend and probably in October since it's much cooler up here at that point, but I can probably still wear shorts for most of the time.
I love the idea of a pseudo ultra marathon and the Ultramarathoner himself, Dean Karnazes, is my inspiration. He did 200 miles in about 48 hours which is far and away above what I'd ever think of doing. But never say never, I guess.
That said, here are a couple of initial thoughts.
1) I'm going to need lots of people to support me. They'll need to meet me at certain spots, bring clean clothes, food, etc.
2) I'd want to include friends around here that are runners who could run a portion of the race with me.
3) I'd also like to do a virtual run with all of my RBFs.
4) I'll need to figure out a way to charge electronics like my Garmin and my iPod.
5) I'll need to train multiple times a day to get ready for 5-7 mile increment runs.
That's just the first draft and I'm not 100% positive that I'm going to do it (just thought about it this morning).
So what does everyone think? Doable? Crazy? What tips do you have for something like this?
8 comments:
Interesting idea! Though I've never done anything close to it, I think it's doable. There are certainly folks who've done self-supported ultras and those who do relay races where people run short legs multiple times, sort of like what you're planning. I would do an online search for blogs about them. Websites for the relay races may have links to training plans or a forum. Perhaps also join an ultra marathoners forum or email group. I'm pretty sure there was one mentioned on the GYGO podcast featured at the Bar this week but I don't remember what it was. Coach Bill (see the Bar's reserved seating area) may also have some ideas.
Good luck!!
Whoa! Not for me! Let me do a first marathon. I like my long runs, but I just don't know about that ambitious a plan!
Good luck, should you decide to do it!
I think that's a cool idea.
It would be like a relay of one.
Have you thought about turning it into a fundraising event? It could help with overall local support.
Totally! You can do it! How exciting.
I'd up the stakes by having people pledge money per mile that you could donate to your favorite charity. They might even sponsor you!
Sorry so behind on catching up on your blog! I actually just posted today about how I'd like to run an ultra. There is a 50K up in Maine, if you're interested. Otherwise, I'd definitely consider doing a virtual 48 in 48 with you.
Cool idea! Keep it going! In my experience not easy to keep stopping and starting but if you train for it I'm sure you can do it...
Wow, that is quite a fantastic goal! Good luck figuring out the logistics.
Oh, and thanks for your terrific advice on running motivation. I'm sure my mojo will come back, it is just a bit frustrating when it leaves!
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