August 20, 2010
Leadville Race Briefing and Medical Check-in
Decent nights sleep. Up at 7 AM to head over and check-in. Medical was online this year so it sped the process for those of us that did it. Got my bag, shirt, but most importantly my band. This wrist band is my proof of entry and the way that I would exit the race. When they cut your band, you are out. So you have to finish to keep it! Weight was 142. Up 4 pounds from my low of the summer. Likely taper and reduced running over the last few weeks. I get to lose 5% of my weight before I have to stop. That's 7 pounds or 135 total I figure. So I better keep on my fluids.
Met up with all my homeboys. Saw Lucho first thing. Met Shad in person finally. JT pulled into town. Brooks was hanging too. We went over to the Golden Burro and had some breakfast. Most folks ate bacon with salt. JT had his usual morning breakfast shake.
Had a good time chatting with everyone before the briefing. Got a nice seat up high for a view of the action. Ken gave us a 90 minute info and pep talk. Various accomplishments were called out including past champs, so Anton got a nod. Chris McDougall of Born to Run book fame was in the house and got a round of applause too.
After leaving the assembly, we heard rumors of Hollywood stars in the mix. Turns out Jake Gyllenhaal of gay cowboy fame was up in the rafters in a big beard and hat. We haven't figured out his role in this yet but the lowdown seems to be a Born to Run movie in the works. They aren't filming the movie right now. I am thinking they are doing some scouting and maybe some "day in the life" stuff so they can then portray it in a film? Seems silly since its such an event in itself and doesn't need to be acted in my opinion. Anyway, here is a back shot of him. He is in the hat with backpack. I wussed out on getting a picture. Wasn't sure I cared enough.
My crew is in place! We spent some time strategizing this afternoon on some final details. I have no worries that these guys will execute like the machine I hope to be myself.
Pinned up my big. Not much more to do. Kim just arrived. Going to eat some and then try and be lazy for a few hours before getting some sleep. Kind of a big day tomorrow.
Race starts at 4 AM Mountain Time. Let's do this.
