It’s not something I lose sleep over, but as the days sneak
up on me so does the inclination to think about what’s next. Then I catch
myself. Not so fast. It’s time to
reflect. Enjoy the fall. Observe the changing leaves (yes we have
a few of them in California). Hang out
with all my girls.
I figured it would be good to put a lid on this Grand Slam
thing. I’ve written some 13 posts about the Slam this year. Why not one
more! Gosh folks, what would a blog about ultra running be without excess?
Since this blog borders on excess, I figured it might be
appropriate to say something here about, well, my excesses. Or maybe the better
term is compulsions. Ok, superstitions?
Like, when I’m traveling, I always keep my hotel key card
with me until I make it back home. For safe passage of course. I’ve got dozens of
these laying around the house. I know this to be a real benefit because the last
time I traveled without my key card I was on my way back from Seattle after
running the Capitol Peak 50 mile. The hotel had real, old-fashion metal keys! So
I couldn’t take one with me. I was pulled over for speeding on my way to the
airport (warning only). And the plane had to make an emergency landing in
Portland. I’ve taken to carrying these cards with me during my 100 mile races
if I’m not returning to the hotel, like at Western States.
Or, like, when I race these days. I always wear the same
pair of underwear. Green. Ex officio. Yes, washed. And the same shirt. Same visor. Same
hydration pack. Same shorts. Although I changed shorts this year after racing
in the same pair since 2011 (it was a big step). Or when I put my shoes and
socks on. Always the right foot first. Drop bags? Lets not go there.
People ask me what’s next...now that the Grand Slam is over.
I think it’s time to see a therapist.