2009 Transrockies Run — Final Thoughts

Lots of people have asked me if the Transrockies Run was everything I expected.  The answer is yes and no.  Yes, I expected an epic week of running and Colorado certainly delivered.  The views were stunning, the TRR staff was incredible, the atmosphere was electric.  But due to Kevin’s injury, we did not get to run hard everyday [...]

Inov-8 Roclite 312 GTX Review

I’ve been wanting to try trail shoes from Inov-8 and I needed something that could handle every miserable condition for the Transrockies Run.  In the words of Leadville 100 founder Ken Choubler, “Hope Pass is a bad son of a bitch on a good day.”  I needed a shoe that was ready for battle.  And [...]

Leki Summit Antishock Trekking Poles

I had never used trekking poles but decided to get some for the Transrockies Run next month after seeing lots of photos from previous years with runners carrying poles.
The amount of speeds and feeds that go into a pair of sticks is rather amazing, but when you consider the history of trekking, mankind has had decades–even centuries–to perfect the [...]

Ultimate Direction Wasp Hydration Pack

I use the Nathan HPL 020 hydration pack for local trail runs, but I needed something with extra storage capacity without the bulk for the Transrockies Run.  I also have broad shoulders and a big frame for a distance runner and needed a pack that fits me comfortably.  Nathan packs are not really designed for someone my size.  I had [...]

A Chance Encounter at Montana de Oro

I was visiting my in-laws in Paso Robles for Father’s Day weekend, so decided to treat myself to some new trails this weekend.  I printed the 25K course map for the Pacific Coast Trails Montana de Oro event and drove to Montana de Oro State Park early Sunday morning.

The name Montana de Oro, or “Mountains of Gold,” was inspired by the abundance of Orange [...]

Saucony Grid Type A2 Racing Flats

“Saucony” is an American Indian word meaning, “mouth of a creek or river.”  The brand’s “river” mark represents the flow of the Saucony Creek in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, where the company built its first factory in 1906.  Founded in 1898, the Saucony brand today is most popular with marathoners and triathletes.  It may be best known for its Originals line, built [...]

SOLE Custom Footbeds Product Review

If you have ever considered insoles for your running shoes, here’s a product that might work for you.  It really just depends on what problem you’re trying to address and how much money you want to throw at it.  I had a painful bout of plantar fasciitis years ago and decided to pay $200 for custom orthotics which [...]

Rancho Canada del Oro Trails

I ran some trails for the first time today in the South Bay that were so great, any avid trail runner would love the place.  I’ve been meaning to try these trails for a full year when my tri training partner and I discovered while on a long ride.  Today I went with another training [...]

3Bar Energy Bar Product Review

The name comes from the three disciplines in triathlon, but can also stand for protein, carbs and essential fats.  3Bar is the only nutrition and energy bar made by a triathlete for triathletes.   That’s Erin DeMarinesin the photo, CEO and founder of 3Bar, certified sports nutrition consultant, and an accomplished triathlete.  It sure seems like Erin has thought of everything to produce [...]

Product Review–YouBars/YouShakes

I was recently selected to write a product review for EveryManTri.  If you’re looking for a better alternative to Cliff Bars and breakfast drinks, these unique nutrition bars and protein shakes might be for you.  You can actually customize the packaging and name it anything you want, making these an excellent gift idea.  Here’s the review.