3 months ago, I thought I was on a clear track for a super fun season of racing road. Then in February it hit me that I was a little discontent with my plan.

Things became clear while reading TrailRunner Magazine and finding an ad for the Steamboat 50 Mile Ultra Marathon. My foot is feeling good and I’m not getting any younger. After speaking with my wife she gave me the thumbs up to explore the idea of completing the 50.

My buddy from work, Mike Porter completed the Old Pueblo 50 Mile Endurance in March of this year. We’ve talked about his experience for hours and I’m finally convinced that I have a shot.

The last step was recruiting my college buddy Brandon Groza who’s recently relocated to Boulder, CO to run the 50 with me, he’s in!

Brandon, Mike and I are going for it! All 3 of us are committed to the ramp up schedule below…

The build up:
Horsetooth Half Marathon – April 18
Medicine Bow Half Marathon – May 30
Leadville Trail Marathon – July 3
La Sportiva Eldora Trail 11km – August 8
The Steamboat 50 – September 18

Right now my weekly training schedule is:
2 days a week of CrossFit at Emergent Fitness
3 – 4 days a week of running with long weekend runs

Weekly training guide:

Monday – Emergent Fitness (CrossFit)
Tuesday – LSD (long slow distance)
Wednesday – Tempo run or hill train
Thursday – LSD
Friday - Emergent Fitness
Saturday - Long run
Sunday – Recovery or off

*Every 4th week is recovery.

It’s going to be a long ride but I think it will be worth it!

Andy B
outsideallday.com