Eight years ago in the weeks leading up to the Western States 100, I sat around a kitchen table with three WS100 veterans and a few runners preparing for their first go at the race. The knowledge I gained in that hour or two left me feeling like a WS veteran as I toed the line in Squaw Valley a few weeks later, despite it being my first 100 mile race. Ever since, I’ve firmly believed that it’s invaluable to learn from ultrarunners who’ve successfully gone before you. That’s why I am so thrilled that iRunFar joins Montrail in sponsoring the Memorial Day Weekend Training Run’s Panel Discussion on Sunday, May 27th.
The evening, which follows the second day of the Memorial Day Weekend Training Runs, kicks off with a pasta meal (suggested $10 donation to cover costs) at 6 pm. Whether or not you take part in the meal, the free talk will start sometime around 7 or 7:30 in the evening. At that point six successful Western States veterans will share their own thoughts about and experiences from the race. Learn their takes on the course, race day strategy and problem solving, nutrition, gear, pacers and crew, and any other subjects the crowd throws the panel’s way. Also, find out how they approach the last four weeks until race day… and maybe even gain a little inspiration.
Here are the details:
Where: Sierra Room of Auburn Canyonview Community Center, 471 Maidu Dr, Auburn, CA 95603
When: Sunday, May 27th with food served at 6 pm and the panel starting between 7 and 7:30 pm.
Who:
- Led by Andy Jones-Wilkins, 8-time WS finisher with 7-straight Top-10 finishes; with
- Dan Williams, 21-time WS finisher (10-year buckle: ’95; 20-year buckle: ’10);
- Dr. Kevin Sawchuk, 10-time WS finisher (10-year buckle: ’09) and current medical volunteer;
- Erik Skaden, 7-time finisher with multiple Top-10 finishes;
- Meghan Arbogast, 5 consecutive Top-10 WS finishes; and
Rory Bosio, 2 Top-10 WS finishes in two attempts.
Cost:
- Food – $10 suggested donation for pasta and salad from String’s Café. Any money over costs will go to the WSER to support trail work.
- Talk – Absolutely free.
This exciting event is made possible by generous support from Montrail and iRunFar.com
Great idea Bryon! Sounds like an amazing resource especially for those of us that are new to the ultra scene. Is there any way you can record and post it for those that don't live in the area?
Agree, that would be great. And there's sure to be lots of wisdom for 100s in general, not just WS.
Ditto..I would be inclined to make a small donation as well for access.
That sounds incredible. What a great way to get inspired to train for a 100 miler.
Hey beyond, is there any way to tape this? Even if it was low tech, hand held style, this would b invaluable!
In regards to the recording I would also "donate" for that!
I'll pitch in $ for recording as well. Seriously. Not just for me, but to save it for all. Would be a shame for stuff like this to get lost.
Hey, if you're really behind the idea of recording it, you'll make happy overseas entrants like me… And I'll be happy to make a donation to WSTF for the video!
Great idea to have available as a podcast! Will chip in as well.
Tim, that's brilliant.
+1 to this and the previous comments for recording it. As an Aussie running, we have few chances of being able to elarn from veterens that you have available in the US and even less a chance of speaking to them. Any chance of seeing a video of their ideas would be greatly appreciated by myself and a few other ultra runners I know of down here.
Cheers
Brendan
Looking forward to it!