Truth be told, I had a very difficult time coping with my DNF (Did Not Finish) at the recent Vermont 100. Vermont was my goal race for 2024 and I thought I was in the best shape since my recovery from long COVID. I knew that in order for me to move on, I needed to attempt another race and prove to myself that I could finish a relatively tough 100-mile ultramarathon.
The Summer Beast of Burden Ultramarathon, which is put up by @happilyrunning, fits that bill. While it is a flat course, the finish rate for this year's 100-mile event is just under 56%, which I assume is largely attributed to the summer heat and humidity. The finish rate for Vermont 100, by comparison, hovers at about 75% under normal conditions.
I took my time on the Beast of Burden course and made sure I ate and hydrate regularly. Still, by mile 80, I struggled to maintain a pace that would allow to finish before the cutoff time. I saw runners dropping out and I was tempted. I thought to myself, "Here we go again, Thomas."
Fortunately, this time I had a guardian angel on the course. When seasoned ultrarunner, Jim Lampman, saw me struggling, he invited me to run/walk with him and promised me that we would finish under the cutoff. We eventually crossed the finish line together, as the last two runners on the course. I could not have done it without Jim. It goes to show how incredible the ultrarunning community is and why I am fascinated and attracted to ultramarathons.
To cap it off, I earned the coveted title of DFL (Dead Final Last) and the co-race directors (Vinny and Nichole Cappadora) had a lovely surprise for me. In addition to the finisher's belt buckle, I received a custom-made granite slab clock that says "Nature Does Not hurry, Yet Everything is Accomplished." It was the perfect ending to my 100-mile race redemption.
And, as they say, the "beast" in my basement was finally released. I hope to have another date with Vermont 100 next year.
Thanks for watching and stay safe, everyone!
Thomas
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