tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-215928052024-03-12T16:55:46.115-07:00Weak and Foolish BlogAuthor/ultra-marathoner/mountain runner blog "Whatever you do, do it with all your might as unto the Lord..."robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.comBlogger77125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-6911696292671819262023-11-25T06:45:00.000-08:002023-11-25T09:06:12.587-08:00Completing the 2023 Phoenix Trail Races 50K Ultra <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jpgQIyqfISNEeLNsCBtomkhuDWfP8IDs9_mGPpg9XtoYDgIHLpYIpWOUvxnYttqw8n2mmGeZhyphenhyphen8o-HTb3G9J5FPY3VoqxRTYoF4esy4D1kwGt-E8sBySCLLCHOPie1KyxMCjkPMwekw3CwAIeLWsZwSTVc6avCeEKaZk0-bpcfQo8_rZA4YJ/s2250/phoenix6IMG_P434_1025.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" height="320" data-original-height="2250" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jpgQIyqfISNEeLNsCBtomkhuDWfP8IDs9_mGPpg9XtoYDgIHLpYIpWOUvxnYttqw8n2mmGeZhyphenhyphen8o-HTb3G9J5FPY3VoqxRTYoF4esy4D1kwGt-E8sBySCLLCHOPie1KyxMCjkPMwekw3CwAIeLWsZwSTVc6avCeEKaZk0-bpcfQo8_rZA4YJ/s320/phoenix6IMG_P434_1025.jpg"/></a></div>
October 14th, 2023, I took part in the Phoenix Trail Races 50k Ultra, held at the Fanshawe Lake Conservation Area in London, Ontario. It was the first time I was able to complete an ultra distance race since suffering with Covid-19 in 2021 and 2022. When it comes to ultra distance trail races this was the gnarliest route I had encountered in my life. The mix of tree roots in sections, rocks, and steep declines make it a challenge. The year previously I had attempted the same ultra but had to stop after completing the first 25k loop because of a knee injury I suffered after tripping on a root and skinning my left knee.<br> We started the race with light rain and chilly wind gusts blowing down, so I wore my hydration vest over over a black windbreaker and a t-shirt. The aid stations had a good selection of drinks and snacks. I had Mourten 320 in my both of my 600 mls hydration pouches so I took water and pickle joice at most of the stops. My plan was to take an S-Cap every 45 minutes (after struggling with cramps I think this should've been one S-Cap every 30 minutes). While on the first 25k loop I was able to keep on this schedule. My drinking flasks were empty of Mourten 320 by the time I reached last aid station on the first loop. I had them refill my flask with Gatorade.<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOCyV-USTh4KjtTlC7P95fkev5_CbjL_ln95xGABVU8vIfTlOlgAahz_PzZKc-GKXu4qY-Jq-ldSkQIof0sznQp3L2yoHs2DfZ1UiM-RqtNfxIcWnpbWTtYI_PE2eZPOwHfIKibB0P7ZutPhYTMyYXEWrEA74mavEdZQVEHTYAN4UWeQO-zuKv/s2000/phoenix1IMG_L2_168_5076.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" height="320" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOCyV-USTh4KjtTlC7P95fkev5_CbjL_ln95xGABVU8vIfTlOlgAahz_PzZKc-GKXu4qY-Jq-ldSkQIof0sznQp3L2yoHs2DfZ1UiM-RqtNfxIcWnpbWTtYI_PE2eZPOwHfIKibB0P7ZutPhYTMyYXEWrEA74mavEdZQVEHTYAN4UWeQO-zuKv/s320/phoenix1IMG_L2_168_5076.jpg"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DB4IaoloRbi5fZJB8Nvf0vj5InzJzR4vqYBO38tc5L956L4wY7SZKwtLNHqeT7Kcwki9TxRpekTmfW5gkM5MXbTXj7-WJ2-O90ohAkAndeJhV_V57q9UkKXOGqastpVWHcAz8paNEF9Z-HwMJ1fAOEsVGEdGMdScRkt2UeHK-qnAXwSpyITd/s2250/phoenix5IMG_P226_0794.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" height="320" data-original-height="2250" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DB4IaoloRbi5fZJB8Nvf0vj5InzJzR4vqYBO38tc5L956L4wY7SZKwtLNHqeT7Kcwki9TxRpekTmfW5gkM5MXbTXj7-WJ2-O90ohAkAndeJhV_V57q9UkKXOGqastpVWHcAz8paNEF9Z-HwMJ1fAOEsVGEdGMdScRkt2UeHK-qnAXwSpyITd/s320/phoenix5IMG_P226_0794.jpg"/></a></div>
I caught up with three runners I knew from work, Miles Climenhaga, Brian Taylor and Joe Lightfoot, just as they were completing the first 25k loop. I refilled my hydration vest with 1200 mls of Maurten 320. We left from the half-way point aid station and ran together for the next fifteen kilometers. It was encouraging to have others to joke with as we pushed through the narrow forest trails that snaked alongside the south side of Fanshawe Lake. I suffered hamstring cramps a couple of times and had to walk off the pain, take some S-Caps and more hydration drink, so I lost sight of my friends near the 35k mark. It took me about twenty minutes to catch up to them. I sarcastically declared my love for tree roots as we ran the technical switchback trails filled with them before we reached the Rebecca Road aid station. I didn't trip once.<p>
I ran on my own for the last 7K as I had to stop and stretch out my cramped hamstring after coming down a steep decline. It was a slow long slog to get through the winding Monkey Wrench Loop trail on the way to the last aid station. From there it was just over 5k to the finish line. It was a joy to be welcomed at the finish line by Miles, Brian and Joe, who had completed the race 15-11 minutes before I arrived. My wife, Olivia, was there too. Minutes later, we all sat together enjoying free hot soup and sandwiches inside a wooden lodge next to the finish line.<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWThLxZEmK-sN5vCDpl2NvKMUYAU_ResS1-pZeVBb5Dy8qGDoW9n5BFdP-cgED4i7SUXSVJwrzLlwsETKIcVtiPzckzOyqL01dz3RxiBdAWA8YYkVL4M3nvUVi2Wh-vZkauabVpilQbMiD_gGqwVTOsLe8CysvpWiLXn9ibTeL2scfzlkLG1oF/s2250/phoenix9IMG_P637_1243.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" height="400" data-original-height="2250" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWThLxZEmK-sN5vCDpl2NvKMUYAU_ResS1-pZeVBb5Dy8qGDoW9n5BFdP-cgED4i7SUXSVJwrzLlwsETKIcVtiPzckzOyqL01dz3RxiBdAWA8YYkVL4M3nvUVi2Wh-vZkauabVpilQbMiD_gGqwVTOsLe8CysvpWiLXn9ibTeL2scfzlkLG1oF/s400/phoenix9IMG_P637_1243.jpg"/></a></div><p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJmUsqRHAXX7KiLwu_q9Qva8hcn9iKhfxckml8WdWKH8aRWuiX42QT8Rd7MxQGZ2tCzq11NKFg0UnrlT8gXVuX0mm4WVMHK0Vl40LIy8eL3H2jny5NJp9RBUGzo-lErSeIi9dFD3Ur4kJH7_eDzLeZ7COoI25SR2i9zK7NHeyMVBbeRUw0GTBc/s2250/phoenix3IMG_P1625_0692.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" height="400" data-original-height="2250" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJmUsqRHAXX7KiLwu_q9Qva8hcn9iKhfxckml8WdWKH8aRWuiX42QT8Rd7MxQGZ2tCzq11NKFg0UnrlT8gXVuX0mm4WVMHK0Vl40LIy8eL3H2jny5NJp9RBUGzo-lErSeIi9dFD3Ur4kJH7_eDzLeZ7COoI25SR2i9zK7NHeyMVBbeRUw0GTBc/s400/phoenix3IMG_P1625_0692.jpg"/></a></div><p>
ULTRA FUEL REFLECTIONS<br>
- Drinking Mourten 320 allowed me to take in 1500 calories throughout the race. My energy level felt consistent and I didn't have any stomach upset issues.<br>
- Taking S-Caps helped to relieve muscle cramping. I think I should have taken them more frequently.<br>
- Pickle juice is nice too.<p>
robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-47895428407195247432021-02-24T19:09:00.040-08:002023-06-03T08:10:26.893-07:0050 km charity run for Soldier OnFebruary 20th at 6 a.m. I left my home in Courtenay B.C. heading south, running, following the old coast highway toward Fanny Bay. It was still dark so I had on a headlamp. My new Hoka One One Clifton 7 runners felt good. This would be my first long run in them. My wife, Olivia, would meet me every 8 kms to provide drinks and snacks. If I was to successfuly complete the 50 km run I set out on I would need the fluids, electrolytes, and calories she had in the trunk.
<p>
By the time I reached Union Bay I was greeted by the sun rising over Denman Island. A co-worker and her husband stopped by the roadside in their car to take video and cheer me on as I made my way out of town heading toward the Buckley Bay ferry terminal. At the Petro Canada gas station there another co-worker was waiting, who would run with me to the 25 km half-way point where I turned around. Being just past the 1/2 marathon distance when we met up my legs were starting to feel "the burn." The hard pavement at the side of the road gave me a good pounding. At this point it was encouraging to have someone else along to help push the pace.<p>
Not long after the turn around, as I approached the 30 km mark, I stopped to listen to the sea lions barking offshore. They seemed to be cheering me on. I recorded them on video (see below).<p>
<iframe class="BLOG_video_class" allowfullscreen="" youtube-src-id="FBv6re2n5t4" width="320" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FBv6re2n5t4"></iframe>
<p>
The weather continued to be pleasant throughout the morning as I made my way back to Courtenay. After running 5:55 I was at the edge of the city, the 50 kms almost complete. The busy intersections of the inner city slowed me down as I had to wait for traffic lights to change. By this time many people were out and about in their cars doing their Saturday morning shopping. I made it back to my house after a 6:28 run, happy to be able to take a warm shower.<p>
The next morning my legs felt like cement as I came downstairs to the kitchen. I had several high protien recovery drinks over the next 24hrs. The Hoka Clifton 7s did their job well. It only took me 2 days to recover. By Tuesday I was able to do my normal 75 minute forest trail run. Many thanks to those who supported my charity run for Soldier On - we exceeded the target amount of money we hoped to raise.<p>
The next Saturday, my legs were feeling good and the weather was nice so I decided to do a 4 hour mountain trail run near Cumberland B.C. for Soldier On. Below are some video clips I took. I followed a route close to the Cumby 25 km trail layout.<br>
<iframe class="BLOG_video_class" allowfullscreen="" youtube-src-id="_1n99llwp9I" width="320" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_1n99llwp9I"></iframe>
<div id="badge" style="position:relative; width:120px; height:240px; padding:10px; margin:0; background-color:white; border:1px solid #a0a0a0;"> <div style="position:absolute; top:10px; left:10px; padding:0; margin:0; border:0; width:118px; height:100px; line-height:118px; text-align:center;"> <img src="https://bookshow.blurb.com/bookshow/cache/P15863415/lw/cover_2.jpeg?access_key=fb9504eb2fe4e522440827ff33b82278" alt="The Itchy Grizzly" style="padding:0; margin:0; height:118px; vertical-align:middle; border:1px solid #a7a7a7;"/> </div> <div style="position:absolute; top:140px; left:10px; overflow:hidden; margin:0; padding:0; border:0; text-align:left;"> <div style="width:105px; overflow:hidden; line-height:18px; margin:0; padding:0; border:0;"> The Itchy Grizzly </div> <div style="font:bold 10px Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color:#545454; line-height:15px; margin:0; padding:0; border:0;"> </div> <div style="font:10px Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color:#545454; line-height:15px; margin:0; padding:0; border:0;"> By Rob Sargeant </div> </div> <div style="position:absolute; top:197px; right:10px; border:0; padding:0; margin:0;"><img src="https://www.blurb.ca/images/badge/photo-book.png" style="border:0; padding:0; margin:0;" alt="Photo book"/> </div> <div style="position:absolute; bottom:8px; left:10px; font:normal 10px Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color:#fd7820; line-height:15px; margin:0; padding:0; border:0;"> <a href="https://www.blurb.ca/books/10529801-the-itchy-grizzly" force="true" only_path="false" style="color:#fd7820; text-decoration:none;" title="Book Preview">Book Preview</a> </div> <div style="clear: both; border: 0px solid black;"></div></div>robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-33286220906397279242020-04-06T15:59:00.003-07:002023-06-03T08:33:19.683-07:00Global charity run for COVID-19 Relief
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iHi-1PybO2s" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
A video clip I took of myself training during the COVID-19 Quarantine in the Comox Valley was used in the above video montage produced by I-Run-Far (at around 2:25) for their Operation Inspiration.<p>
Because of COVID-19 most of the ultra-marathon and mountain races scheduled for the Spring of 2020 have been cancelled or postponed. Many of the race directors, sponsors, and athletes upset by this turned it into a good thing by coming up with the idea of doing a virtual race. This past weekend I took part in "Operation Inspiration" a global charity run organized by I-Run-Far, joining 1600 long distance runners from around the world. Together we raised over $52,000 dollars for the World Health Organization's COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96VtCxSv6xW3AZNmlgtNnHAQ5NtH0ZpO1LNUaqCuJg5wdwI-AqENCFVx6DYfV7oQ-PMORLM_UsGKaZYfuHoBiMJpzmv_fJz_N_tZ5mmS7JYIGZz0r3LdA_XUWnM7fFtSK6IVC/s1600/IMG_20200404_082313774_BURST000_COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96VtCxSv6xW3AZNmlgtNnHAQ5NtH0ZpO1LNUaqCuJg5wdwI-AqENCFVx6DYfV7oQ-PMORLM_UsGKaZYfuHoBiMJpzmv_fJz_N_tZ5mmS7JYIGZz0r3LdA_XUWnM7fFtSK6IVC/s400/IMG_20200404_082313774_BURST000_COVER.jpg" width="300" height="400" data-original-width="1200" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGOyJKzUtVdY_YJ8As4nRwO8i19ryAYRE8Y3EBLae05Xk5jCV4fSBuITOiH98ojLkMN6yfvTzxL3FoahKDr5C7wvvqjofCWYuh_8xgahHIJmeC5M9Wg8BNYTpuTgxqBdrfkiIV/s1600/IMG_20200404_080509146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGOyJKzUtVdY_YJ8As4nRwO8i19ryAYRE8Y3EBLae05Xk5jCV4fSBuITOiH98ojLkMN6yfvTzxL3FoahKDr5C7wvvqjofCWYuh_8xgahHIJmeC5M9Wg8BNYTpuTgxqBdrfkiIV/s320/IMG_20200404_080509146.jpg" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="1200" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div> <br> When my race bib number arrived the day before, I found it had a spot where I could write in who I wanted to inspire by doing this. After giving it some thought I realized how much work the cashiers were doing during this quarantine - so I put them down. Cashiers, you are my heroes. Those working at Walmart, Superstore, Costco, and other grocery stores, helping us to continue to have the necessities we need to survive. Brovo!<p>
I picked a 20 km route to run that followed the Forbidden Plateau road heading up 1750 feet 10 kms and then back down again. Here are some edited video clips I made while I was doing the run Saturday morning documenting my progress(below).<p>
<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fauthorrobsargeant%2Fvideos%2F2317212995238261%2F&show_text=1&width=560" width="560" height="426" style="<div class='share-on-blog' style='margin: 2px;vertical-align: top; font-size: 14px; font-family: arial; color: #000; max-width:300px;padding: 20px;border: 1px solid #f5f5f5; text-align: center; display: block;margin: 5px auto;'>
<a href="https://www.blurb.ca/bookshare/app/index.html?bookId=11455129" data-bindattr-57="57" target='_blank'><p>
<img src="https://production.builder.blurb.com/pdf-processing/files/P16827306-727158687f8f921871bc862b9fc563ff921cf5dd09763519b44dadca1b86d502?Expires=1690902003" data-bindattr-58="58" alt='' style='max-height:300px; max-width:300px;border:0;zoom: 50%;box-shadow: 3px 3px 10px 1px #999;' />
</a>
<p style='margin: 5px;'><a target='_blank' style='text-decoration: none; font-size: 18px; color: #00c0be; text-transform: uppercase; border-bottom: 0;'><script id='metamorph-208-start' type='text/x-placeholder'></script>The Eternal Staff<script id='metamorph-208-end' type='text/x-placeholder'></script></a></p>
<p style='margin: 5px;'>By <a style='text-decoration: none; color: #00c0be; order-bottom: 0;'><script id='metamorph-209-start' type='text/x-placeholder'></script>Rob Sargeant<script id='metamorph-209-end' type='text/x-placeholder'></script></a></p>
</div>border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe><p>
robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-87277427339569002302020-04-06T13:43:00.000-07:002020-04-06T13:43:37.522-07:00Training during the COVID-19 quarantine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgC4Qfjqm34P_AYgKPENdP2eL6n2yOHuyyNKKwsOziCaCiIPfOs0bRDDVZnSEIia7XmE0A4iXzax9rXtRrD8smHncYpWejIv2wynkLM3zgQCilG4-Qx9hBwGOx8UfOrjoOnkr0/s1600/IMG_20200324_130811502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgC4Qfjqm34P_AYgKPENdP2eL6n2yOHuyyNKKwsOziCaCiIPfOs0bRDDVZnSEIia7XmE0A4iXzax9rXtRrD8smHncYpWejIv2wynkLM3zgQCilG4-Qx9hBwGOx8UfOrjoOnkr0/s320/IMG_20200324_130811502.jpg" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="1200" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div>I recently took a one hour run on one of my favourite trail systems during the corona virus quarantine in B.C. on Vancouver Island. I found that I was more careful than usual and stayed on the even surfaced logging road. I didn't venture off on the more technical mountain bike trails that wind through the forests like I usually do. There are over 25 kms of trails to explore in the mountains outside of Cumberland. Since 2015 I've trained on the trails and in the technical sections have only had a couple of scrapes and muscle strains throughout the years. I've always made it out safe.<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmQwsXlIiRXQCPDTzYHk6Z88VnwHJ6sIFty4rt5DMZLV_AlEwXzls1FKWv3lNzKXeLaCcYLD3WGQaH0GzS8YvIG1R9vtyFnaJd6g-BWwyLRL7c-jKGnMsm5IuG5UYMgIRXoRE/s1600/IMG_20200314_093623832_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmQwsXlIiRXQCPDTzYHk6Z88VnwHJ6sIFty4rt5DMZLV_AlEwXzls1FKWv3lNzKXeLaCcYLD3WGQaH0GzS8YvIG1R9vtyFnaJd6g-BWwyLRL7c-jKGnMsm5IuG5UYMgIRXoRE/s320/IMG_20200314_093623832_HDR.jpg" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div>
It was a beautiful day. I met other people who were out walking their dogs or on mountain bikes. We made room for each other as the logging road was wide enough to practice the 2 metre physical distancing rule. This is the first time that I've had to deal with a quarantine like this. So much had changed within a period of two weeks. I ran along thinking of the changes; the cancelled sports events, closed theatres, restaurants, and clubs. I looked around. The forest was the same. The birds were still chirping. With a thankful heart I focused my mind on the many things in my life that hadn't changed and it gave me hope as I finished my run.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBc-A0SVSDdcW9c_Z4zfcAt9gNRvcJt7X3DoJ2fKQQ5Q_EkURJ_CqUQst5LeCbtcGthTgcPNoGLR1-6uikJ0c65se3CLnBLQ7ICOOSa2j46hMSwUgA6lWFsfNB4jxTLn6qnJ8n/s1600/IMG_20200321_121634178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBc-A0SVSDdcW9c_Z4zfcAt9gNRvcJt7X3DoJ2fKQQ5Q_EkURJ_CqUQst5LeCbtcGthTgcPNoGLR1-6uikJ0c65se3CLnBLQ7ICOOSa2j46hMSwUgA6lWFsfNB4jxTLn6qnJ8n/s320/IMG_20200321_121634178.jpg" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="1200" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div>robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-10088925029356625612020-02-29T19:27:00.002-08:002020-02-29T19:29:21.260-08:0050 km World Vision Canada Charity Run - 2020February 22nd, at 5 a.m. I left Courtenay B.C. attempting a 50 km charity run for World Vision Canada. My wife, Olivia, drove the support vehicle and shuttled ahead of me stopping every 8 km or so to provide aid. The first two hours as I headed south on the old coast highway 19A it was dark. Even though I wore a headlamp I was able to take in the stars of the clear night sky, and the reflection of the constellations in the coastal waters. 15 km into the run the sun began to rise. I was just on the edge of Union Bay where Olivia was waiting with the car as the second aid station stop. I dropped off my headlamp, refilled my Nathan drink bottles, and picked up a Mars bar to nibble on later. A kilometer further down the road Olivia drove past me cheering me on. This encouraged me. My body felt warmed up, and my legs were loose, but I wondered if the heavy fitness test I had completed earlier in the week at work might hinder me from finishing. I continued on hoping that no muscles would strain. After passing the halfway point at the Fanny Bay wharf the bright morning sun broke over the tree tops of Denman Island to the east. I felt encouraged. <br> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7usfoCPI8BduMiWLOBNEKczf3qhkRf1fpcDANj0nvRh5gwbAevrQe8z3bo1pZ9qjUZ674pAJFAgqLssEizjSNzkw3AyVhxchdWVnKoooyDg-gDEFH6YVBpxSbNJ8BsQwdRCxP/s1600/IMG_20200222_075439145_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7usfoCPI8BduMiWLOBNEKczf3qhkRf1fpcDANj0nvRh5gwbAevrQe8z3bo1pZ9qjUZ674pAJFAgqLssEizjSNzkw3AyVhxchdWVnKoooyDg-gDEFH6YVBpxSbNJ8BsQwdRCxP/s320/IMG_20200222_075439145_HDR.jpg" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div> After Fanny Bay the route I was on turned inland through some hilly and forested areas. I kept telling myself to run the kilometer that I was in and not to worry about the many others that were ahead. Just as I came into the fourth aid station stop Olivia told me to get quickly get into the car. I thought she saw a cougar or a bear. She drove ahead to find a better spot for us to stop maybe 3/4 of a kilometer. Once we had stopped she explained to me that there was a strange person asleep at the side of the road where we had originally planned to have the stop. She didn't want to wake him/her. Due to this change I calculated that we should add an extra kilometer to the distance we had planned.<br>
As you can see from the video below I was able to complete the 50 km World Vision Canada Charity Run with the support of my wife.<p>
<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fauthorrobsargeant%2Fvideos%2F2800088503555881%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe>
<p>
After completing the run we had lunch at Lefty's Restaurant in picturesque Qualicum Beach. They make a great bacon cheeseburger with a side order of fries. This is just what you need after pounding out 50 kms. robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-44360100222068432012019-10-22T18:59:00.000-07:002019-11-27T20:10:25.450-08:00Tzouhalem Mountain Trail race 2019 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpjTA0NJZcihoMZAgJ5r0o65SgHo6jhVztlwJ3CEkLqUlRReXFSiolkj3XEW6-Dr5blA7903i1Q6lay_bqBPpgJ7tSgo-HkxuKUXJtG01LH8J8OaWFtBK0HReRJI879gUvTFTg/s1600/duncanrun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpjTA0NJZcihoMZAgJ5r0o65SgHo6jhVztlwJ3CEkLqUlRReXFSiolkj3XEW6-Dr5blA7903i1Q6lay_bqBPpgJ7tSgo-HkxuKUXJtG01LH8J8OaWFtBK0HReRJI879gUvTFTg/s320/duncanrun.jpg" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="700" data-original-height="933" /></a></div>When I saw the heavy rain before the start of the Tzouhalem Mountain Trail race I wondered if I would be able to complete it under my 2 hour goal time. Due to the rain we huddled under banquet tents set up on the large front lawn of Providence Farm until the very last minutes before the start count down was made. We were off, kicking up mud, trying to avoid puddles in the dirt road that led up to the trail head. Tzouhalem Mountain was shrouded in mist. I couldn't see the heights we were to ascend. The first four kilometers were mostly climbing and scrambling at certain places where the rain had washed over bare, rocky, slippery, outcrops. As it was well into fall, many leaves were on the ground. This made it hard to see the pink directional flags once we got to the summit and were following single track. The four runners I followed went off course about 800 meters when the lead runner lost sight of the pink flag markers. When I had to back track I thought my goal time was an impossibility. When it got tough I thought of a Bible verse I had read earlier that day, Psalm 18:33 "He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, and leads me on the heights." I whispered it in a prayer under my breath.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWoHP_iVmrrvE-PXs7a0zLTSbJ59BzkaOlFYIucU9TcH4wPKQzv7vxjJKGokJgTdmBTMGF0j4Yn7RmjRIunD4DhhRQFWDPj2By0GCHklRf8hqTEcxdcTQCzbUg7FssBXCTCw-/s1600/duncanrun2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWoHP_iVmrrvE-PXs7a0zLTSbJ59BzkaOlFYIucU9TcH4wPKQzv7vxjJKGokJgTdmBTMGF0j4Yn7RmjRIunD4DhhRQFWDPj2By0GCHklRf8hqTEcxdcTQCzbUg7FssBXCTCw-/s320/duncanrun2.jpg" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="663" data-original-height="884" /></a></div> <br> We pressed on, coming to some trails near a cliff edge where we could look out to the valley below. By the time we had reached the summit the mist had cleared enough that we were able to gaze down. I stopped to take a couple of photos. After 7 kilometers the trail started into a series of steep descents. I had to be careful at some because of the trail conditions with the mud and puddles. I didn't fall even once though thanks to my stable Altra Olympus 3.0 trail running shoes. I picked up speed and was able to pass some people during my descent. I checked my watch at the 9 kilometer mark and saw that I was within range of reaching my goal time. 1:50 was looking like a possibility. I stayed focused and pushed down the quad trail switchbacks that led back to Providence Farm. I felt good. The finish came into sight after passing back through the barnyard. I didn't care about stepping in puddles anymore. <br>I finished in 1:48 better than my goal time. I heard chatter a few seconds later that a pack of runners was right behind me and 15 of them had taken a wrong turn on the summit and had done an extra loop. A light rain was still falling and there was a chill in the air as we waited for the rest of the runners to finish while eating soft tacos and drinking coffee. <br> <a href="https://racedaytiming.ca/results/2019VITRSRace6Long#">RACE RESULTS</a>robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-69244543798326212762019-09-22T06:48:00.002-07:002019-09-22T06:55:06.879-07:00Training for the MT Tzouhalem mountain trail run<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoixQKDfTod9raaN8_NOLNy1ujnWt0Iwb0919XNG9jr18cVtjsFbWz-ys3dmNzmn11GFWDcVvYSbE2h3YiJEGmpuF0YyafR4dNCDJ2NwBOw14wuor22cSDDrBgTfCCt4EWUEYR/s1600/tsulemclimb+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoixQKDfTod9raaN8_NOLNy1ujnWt0Iwb0919XNG9jr18cVtjsFbWz-ys3dmNzmn11GFWDcVvYSbE2h3YiJEGmpuF0YyafR4dNCDJ2NwBOw14wuor22cSDDrBgTfCCt4EWUEYR/s320/tsulemclimb+013.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div>
I had the last two weeks of August free so I took a short overnight camping trip to the Cowichan region of Vancouver Island, where Mount Tzouhalem is located. I arrived in Duncan just after the sun had risen. I had a map of the trail system with the racecourse marked out but had a hard time finding my way as the course wasn’t marked. I had a few false starts finding the right dirt road, and almost ran through a horse paddock at Providence Farms. The horses were glad to see me. I was surprised. <p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG2U3C5knNFCcAMcjFUCeJOVvPfpIMVULrkVCToHFN9xd_cnzhFD26myZ76YaUzzfmaF08hVksZGc4KQQZsFcUS6j57rqDLf6_9mvivv4rvUdy7R_BC8ghStKpWu76MAJDc4v-/s1600/tsulemclimb+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG2U3C5knNFCcAMcjFUCeJOVvPfpIMVULrkVCToHFN9xd_cnzhFD26myZ76YaUzzfmaF08hVksZGc4KQQZsFcUS6j57rqDLf6_9mvivv4rvUdy7R_BC8ghStKpWu76MAJDc4v-/s320/tsulemclimb+017.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div>
I finally found the start area and got onto the dirt road that led to the trail head of Mt Tzouhalem. After the first switchbacks that are wide enough for a quad wheeler to access, it becomes mostly single track, technical, with rocks, roots, and fallen trees to navigate. With 500 meters of vertical the slog to the first summit has a lot of long steep sections that can only be power hiked. I went off course and ended up on the summit of the cross trail, which offered me some amazing early morning views. I found the single-track trail beyond this wasn’t marked well. I’m sure race day they’ll have it tagged with ribbons. There were too many forks in the trail with no directional arrows. After an-hour and forty-five minutes I decided to head back to Providence Farm so I wouldn’t get lost. <p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9C0Q_nXDGhMq9e8wMfrds2ApNdKRNYrVmwfKkVawH_ffGMjHXbYebj_5RxN-HQp2Ng5itlCGMF3ypQ5jTj-8sc0C8UaXH3Tf1jtcVuSrfLJHwxUX8f1DEkOkvwZWrY1jiL-qm/s1600/tsulemclimb+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9C0Q_nXDGhMq9e8wMfrds2ApNdKRNYrVmwfKkVawH_ffGMjHXbYebj_5RxN-HQp2Ng5itlCGMF3ypQ5jTj-8sc0C8UaXH3Tf1jtcVuSrfLJHwxUX8f1DEkOkvwZWrY1jiL-qm/s320/tsulemclimb+007.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div>
As I returned to my car I had put in almost a three-hour training run, and had had a good taste of the trail conditions for the up-coming MT Tzouhalem trail run, part of the Vancouver Island trail running series. I would say, as a mountain running trail race it’ll be tougher than the Cumby 25, but not as punishing as the Kusam Klimb. As I was soaking my feet in the Lake Cowichan back at the beech where I was camping I found that I had lost a toenail during the run. Later that evening I comforted myself over the loss as I refueled with a meal of fried chicken and chips and a milkshake at the fifties diner in Cowichan village.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6gSQCY190p0Kvi6ELvliOnrs-8Q_KdlZai9DIikZMUNwwaMhgjbHUYpQ2OjfggovKY0yJ4CgrFBv_rTSe4o6tyq1R8hHN9YwmeGPvZ_Zy9_ZEqOXmOxoEZssQQinNUoeGSS5Y/s1600/tsulemclimb+033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6gSQCY190p0Kvi6ELvliOnrs-8Q_KdlZai9DIikZMUNwwaMhgjbHUYpQ2OjfggovKY0yJ4CgrFBv_rTSe4o6tyq1R8hHN9YwmeGPvZ_Zy9_ZEqOXmOxoEZssQQinNUoeGSS5Y/s320/tsulemclimb+033.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvhx3YTQXCyPFixpBidFkJco8Tfz9_3BYqxGPPgSZz7uNRdinG_je1pVXLOiqJQrfO0Zwv5VH5cGocYKqOQTJXare02SB3LeqGioWadeEzGu8zyj5PEizbUEgZ_hyphenhyphenUn18vZ8EZ/s1600/tsulemclimb+025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvhx3YTQXCyPFixpBidFkJco8Tfz9_3BYqxGPPgSZz7uNRdinG_je1pVXLOiqJQrfO0Zwv5VH5cGocYKqOQTJXare02SB3LeqGioWadeEzGu8zyj5PEizbUEgZ_hyphenhyphenUn18vZ8EZ/s320/tsulemclimb+025.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div>robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-65721169907006098502019-06-28T17:34:00.000-07:002019-07-06T08:33:26.173-07:00 Kusam Klimb 2019 mountain run fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2yBunHefUT6gRfyu3y2zERBbSSW5UCqaKgiwsACT-dGjk5Q0oBOckIRWJ21kWHVXEfZ8RMLHchn9jqk78lkDC6-81cDhsNG7OuSL_FzQlTmYqU3suCZns826YY8MJ-P6fwFn0/s1600/AMBI0040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2yBunHefUT6gRfyu3y2zERBbSSW5UCqaKgiwsACT-dGjk5Q0oBOckIRWJ21kWHVXEfZ8RMLHchn9jqk78lkDC6-81cDhsNG7OuSL_FzQlTmYqU3suCZns826YY8MJ-P6fwFn0/s400/AMBI0040.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div>
I camped in Sayward the night before the Kusam Klimb. They have several municipal campsites by a pond at he edge of the village. I picked a site with a view of Mount Kusam. On the way into Sayward I had spotted a black bear crossing the road so I decided not to cook anything at the campsite. Instead I ate a sub sandwich and had a cup of coffee, munching it as I took in the view of mountain I would be running on the next day.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpgsxj4sYCJQ0xXPDRUKlDLK8u-2cOHsK-c3WM5dtAUSX5JuhL4HlhmCL4ZI4O7w_Gw7RkkWNK5m_7Knc87Ss5NYYGERrlFmjtIPJA7YYHhd9nNicDhjsXKrxEo4BaMFhB8EMg/s1600/AMBI0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpgsxj4sYCJQ0xXPDRUKlDLK8u-2cOHsK-c3WM5dtAUSX5JuhL4HlhmCL4ZI4O7w_Gw7RkkWNK5m_7Knc87Ss5NYYGERrlFmjtIPJA7YYHhd9nNicDhjsXKrxEo4BaMFhB8EMg/s320/AMBI0034.JPG" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="1200" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div>
This year was my sixth time completing the Kusam Klimb. It had the driest trail conditions I've ever seen. Even the top of the mountain was mostly clear of snow. I was glad that I had carried a camel pack with about a liter of fluids to drink as the streams on the way up were bone dry. It's always worth the effort once you reach the top when you're above the clouds and you look to the valley below where the race began. It's a tough slog to make it to the top, power hiking and sometimes crawling on all fours. In the first 10 kilometers of the race you'll ascend over 4,700 feet. On the summit I ran with a group of four others for about 20 minutes up to the last steep ascent where I stopped to drink and take in some electrolytes.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCInGvwGl-xDQE8p_aSRqL-mYbnb3uZb4xagztfIgJNtsVZs39R8O0747A9uwHO45lMpW8ckvm2YvdFHqDhUAQg1kgSO178RpdSMxEDyjXYJgf_myv-XczvCTRIiShnt6PNDlM/s1600/AMBI0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCInGvwGl-xDQE8p_aSRqL-mYbnb3uZb4xagztfIgJNtsVZs39R8O0747A9uwHO45lMpW8ckvm2YvdFHqDhUAQg1kgSO178RpdSMxEDyjXYJgf_myv-XczvCTRIiShnt6PNDlM/s400/AMBI0047.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div>
Getting down Mount Kusam has its challenges too. At some of the steep areas ropes are required. If they're not available then you have to hang off of tree branches and shrubs for support as you descend. Because of the dry trail conditions it was easy to make up for lost time once I was out of the forest onto the old logging roads. I met up with some other runners at this point and kept pace with them until we reached check point three where peanut butter Nanaimo bars and chunks of watermelon were waiting. After almost three hours of mountain running aid station 3 was a welcome site.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqflGCpF93j4lmHRo7IWIgpmDs92VPv5LCK1KSHT131V_FeyR3mcZQ6PFUF8iZr1u0UBz-DmbWANH6ihzX6o_Tq5cQ40BrtUeoNH_WxaR96L1nmsyHuIDjChOPL90nIEH5k6qY/s1600/AMBI0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqflGCpF93j4lmHRo7IWIgpmDs92VPv5LCK1KSHT131V_FeyR3mcZQ6PFUF8iZr1u0UBz-DmbWANH6ihzX6o_Tq5cQ40BrtUeoNH_WxaR96L1nmsyHuIDjChOPL90nIEH5k6qY/s400/AMBI0056.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div>
The remainder of the trail system was mostly shielded from the morning sun by the trees that over hang the logging roads. At some of the ditches and streams I hopped across along the way I took the opportunity to cool off by soaking my head wear in the cool water. I could feel the heat of the day when I entered the last roadway leading to the finish. I was glad the end was near. I passed another racer and thought I was in the clear as I had fifty meters or so left. But as the finish line came in sight she sped up and tried to pass me. I wouldn't give up that easy though, and pushed on with a final surge that had me tripping just before the finish line at 4:45:41. I landed on my chest and scrapped the palms of my hands breaking my fall, but we tied. That was a finish I will not soon forget. robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-27870803197344835892019-05-13T20:51:00.000-07:002019-05-16T18:29:31.109-07:00My First Cumby 25 Mountain RunThere's a saying that time flies when you're having fun. That was true of my experience running the Cumby 25 for the first time May 11th. Maybe it was the quickly changing scenery as we ascended the winding mountain trails, or the cheerful volunteers offering lemonade at the top of Slick Rock trail where it turned onto Steam Donkey, or the sound of huffing and puffing and polite runners saying, "passing to your left" as we power hiked up the steep Truffle Shuffle, that made time fly. Suddenly I found myself at the top of Upper Vanilla trail forty-four minutes into the Cumby 25.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh315uqcpMXXi5m_lorLGbU28gt3FAhsKGfMLBWzObXWUGylrofr4lci8yJogL9EbIziTyzvPS7Q0tdpjhuKkl74FXSzGNStUAVCCaSAD1G124P07YP9NCYg_F8YsBTwJFdosT4/s1600/AMBI0015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh315uqcpMXXi5m_lorLGbU28gt3FAhsKGfMLBWzObXWUGylrofr4lci8yJogL9EbIziTyzvPS7Q0tdpjhuKkl74FXSzGNStUAVCCaSAD1G124P07YP9NCYg_F8YsBTwJFdosT4/s320/AMBI0015.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div> I continued on alone, it seemed, enjoying the descent running over the roots and rocks along the trail, through the shadows of a fir tree forest, shafts of morning light would fall upon me, here, and there, until I reached aid station one, situated on a logging road, beside a wide open section of descending trail with switchbacks that led down a steep incline. I felt the heat of the day for the first time there while exposed to the sun and was glad to be back under the shade of the trees again after reaching Even Lower Vanilla. There, I met up with some other runners as we slowed, coming to a narrow wooden bridge over a swamp, and a steep embankment. We climbed this, and after scrambling across a section of rocky, gently, rolling hills, we came to a straight logging road. I checked my Garmin watch and saw that I was moving at a pace about six-to-eight minutes ahead of what I had anticipated. This cheered me up as I was about to head into a section of trail I had never run before, Swamp Monster, and Rug Burn. <p>It was near the end of Swamp Monster that I had my first fall. I tripped on a rock and went flipping head over heels onto the edge of the trail. When I attempted to stand, a shooting pain pulsed through my right calf muscle. It felt like a micro tear. A fellow racer stopped to help me up. He offered me some pickle juice he had in small plastic bottle, but I declined, telling him that I had an electrolyte mixture of my own. It was hot out on the exposed rocks of Swamp Monster, and approaching an hour-and-a-half into the race, I limped along, slowly, hoping that the calf cramp would go away as I drank mouthfuls of fluid from my hydration pack. The runner who helped me up ran with me for the next kilometer, making sure that I would be okay. With aid station two in sight my helper left, running ahead at the end of Lower Crafty Butcher. The aid station had a good selection of drinks ready to go. I took two, and dumped one cup of cold water over my head, leaving with a chocolate GU Gel in hand to sip on as I made my way up a steep incline near the start of the Two Flats trail. I encouraged myself that this was near the halfway mark, according to my Garmin watch. My right calf was still bothering me though, and every now and then I could feel a shooting pain as I descended the first part of the Rapture trail. Would I be able to carry on this way? I wondered. I stopped to walk and re-hydrate when I got to Ark trail, where it turned onto a straight section of logging road. A passing runner saw I was struggling and offered me an electrolyte jelly cube. I gladly took it, and jogged on toward Rapture cliff. It loomed ahead of me in the distance - majestic in the midday sun. I enjoyed the climb, taking in the views, slowly making my way to the top. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgIisBTjbifg082sXTst2kvZ-2QmeizYoty0u7rb-qeq0mq97oaN5_yHhhyphenhyphenMfjS6bixuzr5h8pISSZmeSnH0NBE1p6CZeuGqbS0EEIP914shbbhNPt5s_QSweUAtvG-FWmqz_2/s1600/AMBI0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgIisBTjbifg082sXTst2kvZ-2QmeizYoty0u7rb-qeq0mq97oaN5_yHhhyphenhyphenMfjS6bixuzr5h8pISSZmeSnH0NBE1p6CZeuGqbS0EEIP914shbbhNPt5s_QSweUAtvG-FWmqz_2/s320/AMBI0014.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div> A refreshing breeze hit me there as I crossed the summit heading to the Kamikaze Downhill that would take me back to Rapture. I felt somewhat revived. A volunteer at the trail junction there said we had about ten more kilometers to go. I shuffled down Kamikaze taking a quick left onto Rapture and hustled along the rolling trail. I was able to keep a steady pace and was making up time, until I had my second fall. Heels over head is how I would describe it. This time when I landed I skinned my left knee and my left calf muscle cramped up. I was alone, so I had to struggle to get to my feet on my own. The cramp was bad. I could only manage to limp on to aid station three, which was fortunately close by, within 120 meters. When I arrived there, I felt like giving up. I spent about six minutes re-hydrating, pouring water over my head, refilling my hydration pouch with water. I also took two Eload Zone caps and Advils. Several runners arrived at the aid station while I was there, looking just as disheveled as I was. I figured I would continue on with six kilometers to go and see if I could work out my cramped calf muscles. If I could get back on to pace I was still within range of reaching my goal time of three-and-a-half hours. The day before I had told my wife, Olivia, to expect me at the finish line around that time. She said she would be there to cheer for me as I arrived. I continued on. I caught up with another couple of runners and was able to keep pace with them for the next four kilometers. With around two kilometers to go we came to a long downhill leading to the last section of trail. I had fifteen minutes left to get to the finish. Thankfully, I made it one minute before my three-and-a-half hour goal time. My wife was there. I gave her a high-five as I ran past her into the roped off finish area. Time sure does fly when you're having fun.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhPdHLB2uOxGn3RMH9seQa4JZQeyfAfismbWZd6qKmV6sq-82_qbXKvnNc_EibjBy6ulpVwRoWxy0h0M00NBukhzFus3FRDBmTkhkl-69kqXdihZh2vTPSddKSLFslooWFJ0I/s1600/cumby252019b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhPdHLB2uOxGn3RMH9seQa4JZQeyfAfismbWZd6qKmV6sq-82_qbXKvnNc_EibjBy6ulpVwRoWxy0h0M00NBukhzFus3FRDBmTkhkl-69kqXdihZh2vTPSddKSLFslooWFJ0I/s400/cumby252019b.jpg" width="225" height="400" data-original-width="540" data-original-height="960" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimPNFYXfoQSncekz43yTkt-QG4jEorwFhA7Ih5kr8spoXJiQyFyCD3q60AgFgOEtfLPuVSDQp30S2TyXQ_9rv2UWXf5H-iFsSAbCZ3lAtvmYkeKLJrlNlJrAZOXJnNWzD5mZft/s1600/cumby252019a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimPNFYXfoQSncekz43yTkt-QG4jEorwFhA7Ih5kr8spoXJiQyFyCD3q60AgFgOEtfLPuVSDQp30S2TyXQ_9rv2UWXf5H-iFsSAbCZ3lAtvmYkeKLJrlNlJrAZOXJnNWzD5mZft/s400/cumby252019a.jpg" width="225" height="400" data-original-width="540" data-original-height="960" /></a></div>robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-4391954957590120822019-04-19T13:16:00.001-07:002019-04-27T15:29:41.850-07:00Training For The Cumby 25km<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-UqchBZHIAcgvJe-wOOK2j81hqVijjJu_vrYZmK0jUk5YPmxyH2VqPuvO8e4Qb02wZX2JtxOop5BHoKZYmk-hgdIz8I_XVIZPFaD7Y_3Oi17MtsMPCu8IQAx7tP2OL5ICOri/s1600/AMBI0015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-UqchBZHIAcgvJe-wOOK2j81hqVijjJu_vrYZmK0jUk5YPmxyH2VqPuvO8e4Qb02wZX2JtxOop5BHoKZYmk-hgdIz8I_XVIZPFaD7Y_3Oi17MtsMPCu8IQAx7tP2OL5ICOri/s400/AMBI0015.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div>
This past few weeks I've been training in the Cumberland Mountain trail system in preparation for the upcoming "Cumby 25" mountain trail run. The course follows various mountain biking trails winding through the forests and logging roads south of Cumberland, B.C. on Vancouver Island. The race website provides a map and written instructions. I printed that off, had it laminated, and brought it along with me on the training runs so I wouldn't get lost. On my first attempt out I did get lost a couple of times and had to back-track on the trails to find the right way. Thanks to some helpful mountain bikers I was given the right directions. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgTodP5yYaWdfw-SnYkiV8DqIJW69ww1kdkIsqc3kITiFxxU1TtvE76-fjFSY595_V27P7RIx7XtDfEIuTRLZ5R4LDibg2-aNKapGYei0bnSuIntQJaP0mVYFKiUOMIbUkmArP/s1600/AMBI0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgTodP5yYaWdfw-SnYkiV8DqIJW69ww1kdkIsqc3kITiFxxU1TtvE76-fjFSY595_V27P7RIx7XtDfEIuTRLZ5R4LDibg2-aNKapGYei0bnSuIntQJaP0mVYFKiUOMIbUkmArP/s400/AMBI0011.JPG" width="300" height="400" data-original-width="1200" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div>The "Cumby 25" gets steep just after the "Teapot" trail enters the "Truffle Shuffle". I could only manage a power hike in these sections as there was a lot of loose stones, and slick rock with the rain coming down the one day. The rest of the trail system is runnable, with plenty of vertical to work the quads. Most of this is technical descent with some low lying roots and rocks. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtplFLZWteiLHWnnfq6fIUo4HQ0s_nrPjnuVtvtWz-x4WTUa16z-owxlgL71FcxfVgD8_Cc0GYiilzCLl4bQy6sCGdG-zTS0g0kZTAgdmi5OOb5gwoCpfyGDgbuavlMv3kdBiv/s1600/AMBI0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtplFLZWteiLHWnnfq6fIUo4HQ0s_nrPjnuVtvtWz-x4WTUa16z-owxlgL71FcxfVgD8_Cc0GYiilzCLl4bQy6sCGdG-zTS0g0kZTAgdmi5OOb5gwoCpfyGDgbuavlMv3kdBiv/s400/AMBI0007.JPG" width="300" height="400" data-original-width="1200" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div> If it's been raining heavily the days leading up to the race, May 11th, expect to get wet while running through "The Crafty Butcher" trail segment. The day I ran in the rain I couldn't keep my feet dry there. The puddles are on top of solid rock and many of them are deeply grooved. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirbP9yfniMtB7vIn6Rb7ypSAJXWjUm0XMIw82_mQNHOdFGn8tNUH5VxbLyxR-tiWM3IkttEHPZoHic2FFyI_TMFPB2wqRYzl9EBKoNy7HUDLszBbMnLCVpszBA1-W7wwHsQD8V/s1600/AMBI0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirbP9yfniMtB7vIn6Rb7ypSAJXWjUm0XMIw82_mQNHOdFGn8tNUH5VxbLyxR-tiWM3IkttEHPZoHic2FFyI_TMFPB2wqRYzl9EBKoNy7HUDLszBbMnLCVpszBA1-W7wwHsQD8V/s320/AMBI0003.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div> The last 1/2 - 1/3 of the race is spent on "The Rapture Trail". If it's a clear day you'll be able to take in some great views as you slowly climb the "Rapture Cliff" trail. After making the rounds of the summit watch for the "Kamikazi Downhill" veering off the edge, the entrance back onto the Rapture Trail comes up quickly on the left. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgIisBTjbifg082sXTst2kvZ-2QmeizYoty0u7rb-qeq0mq97oaN5_yHhhyphenhyphenMfjS6bixuzr5h8pISSZmeSnH0NBE1p6CZeuGqbS0EEIP914shbbhNPt5s_QSweUAtvG-FWmqz_2/s1600/AMBI0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgIisBTjbifg082sXTst2kvZ-2QmeizYoty0u7rb-qeq0mq97oaN5_yHhhyphenhyphenMfjS6bixuzr5h8pISSZmeSnH0NBE1p6CZeuGqbS0EEIP914shbbhNPt5s_QSweUAtvG-FWmqz_2/s320/AMBI0014.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div> The remainder of the "Rapture Trail" before you get to "Crazy Ivan" and "Tunnel Canary" crosses over three old logging access roads. A couple of minutes after crossing the last road you should pop out in sight of the start of "Crazy Ivan". There are two straight-aways after this where you can make up for some of the time you lost on the more technical sections of Rapture. "Two Shoes" trail is a short leg in the race. You'll see "Rapture" on your right fairly soon after getting onto it. "Rapture" will lead you back to the logging road at the top of "Sapsucker". You'll pass "Cottonwood", "Iron Curtain" and "50:1" on the way there. The Access trail is a fairly straight downhill that passes the end of "Sapsucker" (you'll see it on your left). If your quads have any strength left in them this is a good place to make up some time. At the bottom of the hill you'll see the entrance to "Josh's Trail" at the "T" junction just off to the right, which goes back towards the start/finish. Pay attention while navigating the muddy trails as there's plenty of roots and rocks. You'll come to a wooden bridge on your right that crosses the swamp. Go over it and follow the trail behind the condominiums up to "2nd Street". After taking the first left the finish line will be in your sights.<p> Race organizers may change the course slightly due to active logging in the area so the directions that I've given here are just a general guide. I ran this, wearing a triathlete pack, carrying 1.5 litres of Nuun drink, cell phone, and snacks. I'd recommend bringing this if you're running solo. Race day there'll be 3 aid stations so I'll be able to travel lighter. robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-2962569284674124112018-10-28T21:17:00.000-07:002018-10-31T07:39:11.690-07:00Indivisible opened in 830 theaters across the USA this weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBRBAHKkc8ruiZF-mQdnzvqX_Y5Gc4BsBlZSmPrYR_HJjHPJjeq9iY0oZFX9wMkDyjUeYsbbs3fIVcT1Czl_8ukkivRO29bTA-vLK7R-UdWI5x3P3NC2uYPVkoo1IXyVkLQrA/s1600/AMBI0142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBRBAHKkc8ruiZF-mQdnzvqX_Y5Gc4BsBlZSmPrYR_HJjHPJjeq9iY0oZFX9wMkDyjUeYsbbs3fIVcT1Czl_8ukkivRO29bTA-vLK7R-UdWI5x3P3NC2uYPVkoo1IXyVkLQrA/s320/AMBI0142.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div>
Last year in June I was in California at a studio ranch outside Hollywood for two weeks acting the part of a US Army soldier in the movie INDIVISIBLE. A lot of energy and sweat went into those days on set running around in full US Army body armor climbing in and out of Humvees. Sometimes explosions went off around us as we did this. You can read more detail about my experience including the miraculous way I was able to be involved in this in a blog I wrote back in July of 2017 <a href="http://robsargeant.blogspot.com/2017/07/a-taste-of-hollywood-acting-as-us-army.html">HERE</a>. It released at 830 theaters this weekend across the USA and debuted just outside the top-10 at number 13, below the new Rowan Atkinson release, 'Johnny English Strikes Again'. On the 'Tomatometer' presently it's 95% liked by audiences and 69% Fresh (Check here <a href="https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/indivisible_2018?fbclid=IwAR3ZQAbNBp06LKMVVjABjMVVcjNxr6uIjfzLCrowA8F00n0vbiSffzARwW4">TOMATOMETER</a>). Overall INDIVISIBLE is getting good reviews. I was able to see an early preview in an online screening and was amazed at how the production turned out. Even though I was on set for many of the scenes that were to have taken place in Iraq 2007, and could remember what was going on behind the scenes, I found myself emotionally caught up and moved by the film. Sarah Drew and Justin Bruening do a powerful job portraying the main characters Darren and Heather Turner. All the supporting cast are strong too, including Skye P. Marshall who plays Sgt Shonda Peterson. The director David Evans doesn't shy away from showing the raw realities of a war zone. He takes you into this Army chaplain's emotional ride as he deals with the suffering and loss of his brother's in arms - how it changes him while he's there and when he returns home.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-xjvmZ-gqZGeWeqDpFv04W4V0O2HLG6f6cscseQG2vETK4ZvDFj-5C5uResCyChd6nm-So5L7Hn4g3b3KDdXYExF4k7CLU8TJijnUWXCb7ZUaFxvFfR8rbpx1IleDdDLJltg/s1600/humveegunner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-xjvmZ-gqZGeWeqDpFv04W4V0O2HLG6f6cscseQG2vETK4ZvDFj-5C5uResCyChd6nm-So5L7Hn4g3b3KDdXYExF4k7CLU8TJijnUWXCb7ZUaFxvFfR8rbpx1IleDdDLJltg/s320/humveegunner.jpg" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div><br>I felt passionate about being involved with this production because I've had friends who have struggled with post traumatic stress (PTSD) due to what they've experienced on deployments with the military. INDIVISIBLE offers hope to those who are struggling in this way showing that healing and reconciliation is possible. <p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ4eP4uZF8KUad7YMfyAfic5h9HyLsxV-SWhUbr7dAl98LFpmah7A7at1toQJjPpytKsZDxQx9hS1tidI8StWSBBUFiKCskebh7iGVcA19t0fjhAkm1VkLBgtAmChkLLIhDSbl/s1600/humvees2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ4eP4uZF8KUad7YMfyAfic5h9HyLsxV-SWhUbr7dAl98LFpmah7A7at1toQJjPpytKsZDxQx9hS1tidI8StWSBBUFiKCskebh7iGVcA19t0fjhAkm1VkLBgtAmChkLLIhDSbl/s320/humvees2.png" width="317" height="320" data-original-width="1405" data-original-height="1417" /></a></div><br>(Above, next to Humvees, My 2002 Pontiac Montana van with Syrian license plates - insurgent vehicle)
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidvUdmPNhkUQlLsj1esuVFYiAz9D7COvlss_DrA3CGp5k-9ZptYT3jv34jS1oXtyXq9nvXkawSdCqg8F7fMqsDyABxjquDgjd6hyphenhyphenzTMlK9Io5y9ZJBLbj1IrxyIEnopjlLPYf3/s1600/day3movieshoot.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidvUdmPNhkUQlLsj1esuVFYiAz9D7COvlss_DrA3CGp5k-9ZptYT3jv34jS1oXtyXq9nvXkawSdCqg8F7fMqsDyABxjquDgjd6hyphenhyphenzTMlK9Io5y9ZJBLbj1IrxyIEnopjlLPYf3/s320/day3movieshoot.png" width="191" height="320" data-original-width="661" data-original-height="1107" /></a></div>
I had such a great working experience on INDIVISIBLE I'd do another film like it again in a heartbeat.
<p>
If you haven't seen it yet in USA theaters, please do. It opens in Australia November 2nd. Find out more about the movie here:<a href="https://indivisiblemovie.com/movie">INDIVISIBLE</a>robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-40669150720892513472018-08-12T09:57:00.000-07:002018-08-13T18:16:27.357-07:00Photo opportunity saves trail runner from bear encounterI was on my usual long mountain run on Saturday morning following the steep, winding, logging road up Cumberland Mountain, when I was overcome by the beauty of the view below. As I gazed out at the fir-tree forests, and beyond that, the Georgia Strait, separating Vancouver Island from the mainland, and the Rocky Mountains silhouetted across the horizon in the early morning sun, I felt I just had to take a photo. I stopped near the summit to remove my smart phone from my backpack, powered it up, aligned the view finder, and took the best shot. <p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy4znMNwzHPqQJjCtln_qxD5YD7FOMKegL9SrnSEhbsP2lV9y4FOdEOuAe_-fgDY-jsWi99nNd-FFaeOGMqKGDITjzoGSiWZZR8gklTwGX-6fI6pGz6B0xlKfYf8lUd-KWbDrj/s1600/bearencounter01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy4znMNwzHPqQJjCtln_qxD5YD7FOMKegL9SrnSEhbsP2lV9y4FOdEOuAe_-fgDY-jsWi99nNd-FFaeOGMqKGDITjzoGSiWZZR8gklTwGX-6fI6pGz6B0xlKfYf8lUd-KWbDrj/s320/bearencounter01.jpg" width="180" height="320" data-original-width="539" data-original-height="960" /></a></div>
When I turned around to take another photo of the trail ahead, I spotted a black bear, not too far off. It was eating ripe black berries from the bushes at the side of the logging road. I took a shot of it too, and then, quietly, I backed away, moving down the steep hill I had just run up, thinking, "If I hadn't stopped to take that photo I would've had a close encounter with a black bear."
<br> Since I was up at the summit so early, there weren't other bikers or trail runners around. I descended the mountain the same way I had come, quickly, hoping that the bear was not alerted to my presence. I checked over my shoulder a couple of times to make sure that I wasn't being followed. I was relieved when I got back to the lower trails where there were plenty of bikers and dog walkers.<br>
Since 2015 I have been running the Cumberland Mountain trail system. I had seen posters with cougar and bear warnings, but had never had an encounter or even spotted one. I had seen evidence of them like tracks and dung. My only other encounters with bears while on trail runs were on the Pipe Line Trail north of the Stotan Falls bridge, and the Cape Scott Park trail on northern Vancouver Island. In those incidences I was making enough noise that they knew I was there, and they took off.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqpSVGtrxEC1sCeUBY01Zb142GGeuuIkot0rFWdqCB1kNQGPGOddK9urBUzisqFje0HquWpKSe5ga-2kB6Y5TEqToUjUmH15xrtNi1NNrSkghOCL0293Gf2TnMBI77wh74k_RX/s1600/IMG_2646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqpSVGtrxEC1sCeUBY01Zb142GGeuuIkot0rFWdqCB1kNQGPGOddK9urBUzisqFje0HquWpKSe5ga-2kB6Y5TEqToUjUmH15xrtNi1NNrSkghOCL0293Gf2TnMBI77wh74k_RX/s320/IMG_2646.JPG" width="320" height="310" data-original-width="855" data-original-height="828" /></a></div><br>
The best way to avoid bear encounters while trail running:<p>
- Make noise; sing, shout, wear bear bells.<br>
- Use trails frequented by dog walkers (dogs mark their territory).<br>
- Avoid trails where berries are ripe.<br>robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-78380564919946752952018-01-03T12:56:00.001-08:002023-06-03T08:29:16.886-07:00Celebrated 50th birthday with a 50 mile runTo celebrate my 50th birthday I planned to run 50 miles on a 10km circuit route (8 x 10kms) nearby in Comox, B.C.. With 216 feet of elevation gain per loop I would end up with a total of 2,777 feet elevation gain. I hadn't considered that ice and snow would be a problem since the temperatures at sea level on Vancouver Island are usually mild mid winter. However, as the day drew near for the run a high pressure weather system moved over much of Canada producing record low temperatures east of the Rockies. The day before my planned running date, my birthday, December 31st, snow fell, and black ice became a problem on several sections of the route. To finish before the sunset I would have to start before the sunrise. This meant I had to wear a head-lamp. I wondered how I would navigate the snow and black ice with a head-lamp for over two hours. I would have to be cautious. <p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtQkGX2oqUjApXyYQKFA6Q9IAI1vKg227ZWSbFrVs9dsbpQ3RCzEQliXUNlJ3c8DepNhM6eMAYqgoQaYV-7AfkEOfjGGVv92zSkbvd4ivhF7eaIwSth9bNqDIuaG12kbbH_JYZ/s1600/50at50+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtQkGX2oqUjApXyYQKFA6Q9IAI1vKg227ZWSbFrVs9dsbpQ3RCzEQliXUNlJ3c8DepNhM6eMAYqgoQaYV-7AfkEOfjGGVv92zSkbvd4ivhF7eaIwSth9bNqDIuaG12kbbH_JYZ/s320/50at50+002.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div>
Near 5 a.m. I set off running alone from my self-serve aid station at Point Holmes, heading west along a coastal trail that wound along beside the beach. Snow fell, flashing in front of me in the brightness of the head-lamp. Heading up the edge of Lazo Road, I could see ahead about 4-5 metres, and dropped back the pace when I encountered black ice. Once onto the sidewalks on Guthrie Road I was out of the woods and had much better visibility. There were some good climbs coming up Guthrie and Pritchard Roads that took some work. At the top I was encouraged by the thought that when I switched directions for my next loop after my aid station I would be coming down the same hills. I had to take things cautiously in the dark on Knight Road as there were long sections of black ice and uneven patches of snow on its shoulders.<p>
The sun came up on my third loop so I could take in the ocean and mountain views the route had to offer. Upon completion of this I was met at my aid station by my wife, Olivia, with a bacon and egg sandwich and veteran marathoner Ken Richardson who would pace me around to the halfway point. It was good to have someone to talk to, as this helped the miles to fly by. He gave me some advice on how to mentally move through the final 40kms. When we reached my aid station at the completion of this stage we were greeted with cheers by a group of members from the Comox Valley Road Runners. One of them asked me how long I had been training for the run and Ken Richardson answered them, "He's been training 50 years for this one." Before I left on the fifth loop though they sang "Happy Birthday" to me. They had a delicious spread of desserts and drinks laid out. I would've liked to stay longer with them to enjoy the tailgate party but I had to keep moving so my legs wouldn't cramp up. <p>
To get through the second half of the 50 miles I mentally divided the remaining distance into aid station stops. With only two remaining, I felt a burst of energy and optimism. "I can do this," I thought. While running loop six I passed a tow truck pulling a 4x4 truck out of a ditch. It had spun off of Knight Road by Siefferts Farm Market. Black ice was still a problem in the shade. I had to be careful. Ken Richardson found me at my aid station as I was preparing to start the final 10km loop. Because he had an appointment at 4 p.m. he could only run with me for the first kilometer or so. Before turning around he encouraged me that I was in good shape to reach my goal.<p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuch4LdM50SgCq2vdmfEsWJiKuL4wkchHmKbV8b1C75x-66dft8OTv5VaqdFyp6Hx3DwEmQw5nIUH5tsRkbFlDIzqpNE6cO9XGurTfm8Z4B4AYAs1mDMsxB-w2rrF5hdabQxLR/s1600/50at50+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuch4LdM50SgCq2vdmfEsWJiKuL4wkchHmKbV8b1C75x-66dft8OTv5VaqdFyp6Hx3DwEmQw5nIUH5tsRkbFlDIzqpNE6cO9XGurTfm8Z4B4AYAs1mDMsxB-w2rrF5hdabQxLR/s320/50at50+005.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div>
With a great sense of joy and accomplishment, as the sun set over Mount Washington, I arrived at Point Holmes. I didn't realize how cold I had become until I got home and was helped into a warm bath by my wife. I went directly from there to a bed under three blankets. I turned on the room's electric heater (unusual for me). It took me a couple of hours to calm the chills. <p>
SUPPLIES<br>
Shoes: Altra Olympus 2<br>
Drinks: Nuun, (Active, Boost)<br>
Nutrition: Ensure protein drink, Mars chocolate bars, Cliff gels, bacon.
<p>
<div class='share-on-blog' style='margin: 2px;vertical-align: top; font-size: 14px; font-family: arial; color: #000; max-width:300px;padding: 20px;border: 1px solid #f5f5f5; text-align: center; display: block;margin: 5px auto;'>
<a href="https://www.blurb.ca/bookshare/app/index.html?bookId=11455129" data-bindattr-57="57" target='_blank'>
<img src="https://production.builder.blurb.com/pdf-processing/files/P16827306-727158687f8f921871bc862b9fc563ff921cf5dd09763519b44dadca1b86d502?Expires=1690902003" data-bindattr-58="58" alt='' style='max-height:300px; max-width:300px;border:0;zoom: 50%;box-shadow: 3px 3px 10px 1px #999;' />
</a>
<p style='margin: 5px;'><a target='_blank' style='text-decoration: none; font-size: 18px; color: #00c0be; text-transform: uppercase; border-bottom: 0;'><script id='metamorph-208-start' type='text/x-placeholder'></script>The Eternal Staff<script id='metamorph-208-end' type='text/x-placeholder'></script></a></p>
<p style='margin: 5px;'>By <a style='text-decoration: none; color: #00c0be; order-bottom: 0;'><script id='metamorph-209-start' type='text/x-placeholder'></script>Rob Sargeant<script id='metamorph-209-end' type='text/x-placeholder'></script></a></p>
</div>robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-20303139974862645282017-08-25T06:29:00.006-07:002023-06-03T08:21:05.076-07:00The best trail runs in the Comox Valley<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1a1jk7WBJ7of90gNGkXM-kf_XeOUeZHY4XzK86fgSGGeX2ACQs_MmER3gAkmP3wxLQXeyCiwmW7kOQCajv6n2F1KY2mwQF8w_YSFPDFyw5yENdgQ_WWbDfJu_PB3ex9ltt89/s1600/comoxvalley01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1a1jk7WBJ7of90gNGkXM-kf_XeOUeZHY4XzK86fgSGGeX2ACQs_MmER3gAkmP3wxLQXeyCiwmW7kOQCajv6n2F1KY2mwQF8w_YSFPDFyw5yENdgQ_WWbDfJu_PB3ex9ltt89/s400/comoxvalley01.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="960" data-original-height="720" /></a></div><p>
The Comox Valley hosts several amazing running trails. In this blog I've attempted to rank six of my favourite ones using the following as determining factors:<br>
1) ease of access to the trail-head;<br>
2) difficulty of the terrain;<br>
3) the beauty, and,<br>
4) length of run.<p>
<b>TOP RANKED TRAILS</b><p>
<b>#1, Cumberland Mountain:</b><br>
For the past two years I've been running The Cumberland Mountain trail on a weekly basis and I just don't get tired of it. It's always a challenge, an adventure, and leaves me whacked after running its hills for hours. I guess that's why it's number one on my list. Numerous entrances to the trail system are found at the edge of the Village of Cumberland. I prefer to park my car in the recreation centre parking lot off Dunsmuir Avenue, its main thoroughfare (Public washrooms are there next to a mountain bike wash station). From there I run down Sutton Road to the Cumberland Community Forest. Hours of challenging fun can be had running the hilly logging roads and mountain bike trails.It takes about an hour to reach the summit after ascending 1200-1400 feet. The views on a clear day are inspiring. You can run 2-5 hours through the vast Cumberland Mountain trail system. Make sure you bring extra fluids in the summer as the streams dry up and it can get hot in the back hills. Watch out for roots and rocks on the secondary trails, and make noise as bears and cougars have been spotted on some of these (I've never met any).<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfOHHSiiOLbAjGbWOF2yGt6_SL6xejNFonfsvTWZNUCHX_-NXse_-lmWQRZ48CXWqE9SJfSNgOoUN_pbr1wvmcZDlGaZmw9UXxHUQI8g8U-lo5Kz0oiczX0fmZvYicg48doTJD/s1600/raptureclifftrail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfOHHSiiOLbAjGbWOF2yGt6_SL6xejNFonfsvTWZNUCHX_-NXse_-lmWQRZ48CXWqE9SJfSNgOoUN_pbr1wvmcZDlGaZmw9UXxHUQI8g8U-lo5Kz0oiczX0fmZvYicg48doTJD/s320/raptureclifftrail.jpg" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="720" data-original-height="960" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7Nu6VjU8I949PR4-UDGLB5pFOQnQtrPqAVi4t3wq9PFwdxfz5v5XEhQGh5WJeIlawgPQZTvwtVIROR8uABUmUqRZsPXvgOWAh67UPEUIej8bVpYnpkOQsuLsjBzxDDDfm3LF/s1600/foresttrail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7Nu6VjU8I949PR4-UDGLB5pFOQnQtrPqAVi4t3wq9PFwdxfz5v5XEhQGh5WJeIlawgPQZTvwtVIROR8uABUmUqRZsPXvgOWAh67UPEUIej8bVpYnpkOQsuLsjBzxDDDfm3LF/s320/foresttrail.jpg" width="236" height="320" data-original-width="707" data-original-height="960" /></a></div><br>
(Photos from Cumberland Mountain's Rapture Cliff Trail and Lower Vanilla Trail, above)
<p>
<b>#2, Riverside/Nymph Falls:</b><br>The Riverside/Nymph Falls trail system covers close to 20kms if you follow it full circle. Running along beside the edge of the Upper Puntledge River through mostly evergreen forested areas it offers many beautiful views where you will be tempted to stop and rest to enjoy the scenery. West of the Inland Island Highway the trails can be a challenge on the north side of the river especially in the rainy season. A 2-3 kilometer stretch back up toward Nymph Falls follows a narrow mountain biking trail with many wooden bridges that get frosty in the winter months. But with rolling hills, several outhouses, and well groomed pathways throughout most of it, the circuit is a pleasure to explore. Access the trail head by vehicle either through Forbidden Plateau Road, Nymph Falls Nature Park or park at the end of Powerhouse Road in Courtenay and run west beside the cement hydro tubes (15-20 minutes) to the Duncan Bay Main Line Road. Continue on following the hydro tubes up hill and you will eventually join the Riverside Trail on the east side of the Puntledge River. If you cross the bridge following Duncan Bay Main Road over the river after 50 metres or so on the left you will see the narrow entrance to the Riverside Trail.<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha86iWLxRV-dG-3lb9v_l9mMR0R3OAXtHi4xtalYTSXUNVeVK4IjlR7fpQlQGWpzpUlan8FvYNb3ZLiFfUyXgIoiyg-3Y43FjQZjRkpkcLiEZbarVtviSaT08e6PqQewKNGJlM/s1600/riversidetrail02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha86iWLxRV-dG-3lb9v_l9mMR0R3OAXtHi4xtalYTSXUNVeVK4IjlR7fpQlQGWpzpUlan8FvYNb3ZLiFfUyXgIoiyg-3Y43FjQZjRkpkcLiEZbarVtviSaT08e6PqQewKNGJlM/s320/riversidetrail02.jpg" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="960" data-original-height="720" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgImcMqPj17zG_sO7J8zBqpDG9YV4x8s5UltT0_1Og1CQ1IuL06JBWPcE18S067hgob1Kbzjh8mnG2FhIdbB9VgWHIwiddRM8D_Ueu_Y3Q42ccRHhak-J9nATM2YpIphVjO_zIE/s1600/riversidetrail03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgImcMqPj17zG_sO7J8zBqpDG9YV4x8s5UltT0_1Og1CQ1IuL06JBWPcE18S067hgob1Kbzjh8mnG2FhIdbB9VgWHIwiddRM8D_Ueu_Y3Q42ccRHhak-J9nATM2YpIphVjO_zIE/s320/riversidetrail03.jpg" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="960" data-original-height="720" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhViMI_i8b3xOwBarh09w3AFVSIVfeDE-LrPIjw6ie9JkrWND05CGXVGa0zWy8-WKpml1Xh2rNctC8vB9UCxd2ew4oxIcl4oUPQ9kdi8LbAw9tMEEXA1kWpxkMjjr-7FX6tVnnE/s1600/riversidetrail05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhViMI_i8b3xOwBarh09w3AFVSIVfeDE-LrPIjw6ie9JkrWND05CGXVGa0zWy8-WKpml1Xh2rNctC8vB9UCxd2ew4oxIcl4oUPQ9kdi8LbAw9tMEEXA1kWpxkMjjr-7FX6tVnnE/s320/riversidetrail05.jpg" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="960" data-original-height="720" /></a></div>
<b>#3, Forbidden Plateau to Mount Washington:</b><br>Running this challenging trail is best done in the dryer months. During the rainy season sections of the trail are submerged by swamp and may be impassable. If you're running with a friend you can both meet up in separate vehicles either at the parking lot at the top of Forbidden Plateau or by Raven Lodge on Mount Washington. Leave one car behind and travel together in the other vehicle to the opposite end of the trail. To run this it will take 5-7 hours. There are some sections that are steep and technical with roots and rocks where your pace will be reduced to power-hiking. I usually wear a pair of gloves to protect my hands, and a camel pack with 2 litres of fluid, energy gels, and snacks.<br> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhng9_EyYJoO8eofhCTNia8cEtjRyX-QzoCJJD64cAKQR_5xZ_NEy1UfK6zh9_Y5GlWZhikpO_lL-wj1SOOjkAQb4vOa4stn5r4OI5i1gtUG8EXg32QBpUi5T79whZFaG5wqJ6z/s1600/logrunning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhng9_EyYJoO8eofhCTNia8cEtjRyX-QzoCJJD64cAKQR_5xZ_NEy1UfK6zh9_Y5GlWZhikpO_lL-wj1SOOjkAQb4vOa4stn5r4OI5i1gtUG8EXg32QBpUi5T79whZFaG5wqJ6z/s320/logrunning.jpg" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="540" data-original-height="720" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSuoXUtV5tJqMbg0eK8D5ZsqBqTzh4tsDys5XqwcZIwbg-bpvJj_Fitq7zqhMPee29kLTPseJ8Krs5BdghDEpVHVe_GqHgwDxAqO5Z-Ocl_Wepo9GXDl9LWEJNmaL1SJf7eZau/s1600/Douglaslake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSuoXUtV5tJqMbg0eK8D5ZsqBqTzh4tsDys5XqwcZIwbg-bpvJj_Fitq7zqhMPee29kLTPseJ8Krs5BdghDEpVHVe_GqHgwDxAqO5Z-Ocl_Wepo9GXDl9LWEJNmaL1SJf7eZau/s320/Douglaslake.jpg" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="540" data-original-height="720" /></a></div>
<b>#4, Lazo Marsh Northeast Nature Trails:</b>
To access this trail system there's plenty of parking to be found behind Highland High School off of Guthrie Road. I like running here when I want to get in an hour or so of trail training on varied terrain. There are close to 10kms of paths winding around the Lazo Marsh Northeast Nature Trail. It's a mix of rocky, root filled, and well groomed trails. There are some good short hills to test your stamina. The surroundings are beautiful with several old growth trees in the lower sections. Watch out for dog walkers. Give them plenty of warning so their pets aren't startled.<br>
<b>#5, One Spot:</b>
One Spot trail is an easy, well groomed, trail that for the most part follows an old lumber railway that once bore the same name. It passes by farmland where cows and horses can be spotted. Hedge groves along the way provide shade. Running out to the end and back from the Condensory Road Bridge in Courtenay can take around 2 hours. The trail head is located near River Meadow Farms on Condensory Road. I've had to share the trail with horses on several occassions. It's best to step aside and let them pass.<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVrEAyLg4IqvuhrzPFAPTa-MVb6GX7GGJ3CchSZn1ix5rVAwgdjezlz1Z91roFZYVC0m8KAqo9nI3RsmluJtgPrM0D2PexEB05b9gvGck_hj3r5wf0rYgK0AaukfrgWG-Xh3DF/s1600/onespottrail01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVrEAyLg4IqvuhrzPFAPTa-MVb6GX7GGJ3CchSZn1ix5rVAwgdjezlz1Z91roFZYVC0m8KAqo9nI3RsmluJtgPrM0D2PexEB05b9gvGck_hj3r5wf0rYgK0AaukfrgWG-Xh3DF/s320/onespottrail01.jpg" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="720" data-original-height="960" /></a></div>
<b>#6, Seal Bay Nature Park:</b>
The Seal Bay Nature Park trail is divided by Bates Road, where you will find the best place to park. Most of the trails are well groomed, and there are outhouses and directional maps stationed throughout. The circular Horse Bike Trail offers the longest run at around 10 kms. But don't stop there, cross over to the east side of the trail system and take in the awesome ocean views from the trails that snake along the cliff side there. There are stairs that lead down to the beach, if you would like a challenging stair workout. So, in total you can get a 12 km workout there easily. The Seal Bay Nature Park trail is a great beginner trail for a road runner interested in making the transition.<br> <p>
CAUTION: For the Cumberland Mountain Trail and Riverside Trail systems I recommend that ear bud type music listening <b>not be used</b> as this may interfere with hearing oncoming mountain bikers and avoidance of wild animal encounters.
<blockquote class="reddit-card" data-card-created="1566053296"><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/wroteabook/comments/crmjph/angelic_army_conquests_full_trilogy/">Angelic Army Conquests - Full Trilogy</a> from <a href="http://www.reddit.com/r/wroteabook">r/wroteabook</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//embed.redditmedia.com/widgets/platform.js" charset="UTF-8"></script>
<p>
<div class='share-on-blog' style='margin: 2px;vertical-align: top; font-size: 14px; font-family: arial; color: #000; max-width:300px;padding: 20px;border: 1px solid #f5f5f5; text-align: center; display: block;margin: 5px auto;'>
<a href="https://www.blurb.ca/bookshare/app/index.html?bookId=11455129" data-bindattr-57="57" target='_blank'>
<img src="https://production.builder.blurb.com/pdf-processing/files/P16827306-727158687f8f921871bc862b9fc563ff921cf5dd09763519b44dadca1b86d502?Expires=1690902003" data-bindattr-58="58" alt='' style='max-height:300px; max-width:300px;border:0;zoom: 50%;box-shadow: 3px 3px 10px 1px #999;' />
</a>
<p style='margin: 5px;'><a target='_blank' style='text-decoration: none; font-size: 18px; color: #00c0be; text-transform: uppercase; border-bottom: 0;'><script id='metamorph-208-start' type='text/x-placeholder'></script>The Eternal Staff<script id='metamorph-208-end' type='text/x-placeholder'></script></a></p>
<p style='margin: 5px;'>By <a style='text-decoration: none; color: #00c0be; order-bottom: 0;'><script id='metamorph-209-start' type='text/x-placeholder'></script>Rob Sargeant<script id='metamorph-209-end' type='text/x-placeholder'></script></a></p>
</div>
robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-8019878961640765662017-07-23T14:17:00.000-07:002018-06-19T18:26:52.212-07:00A taste of Hollywood acting as a U.S. Army soldier in the war drama INDIVISIBLE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6q1TNAJBTHm00lLHZtceE50N6BOQwEm4s4t3d6eN6FrtSjUGYXB6UjyW5AdOt21Y4DcGKESkZUWqEjb_vITG5_dqD__IOmXzYCwRr2QQ1Q-62rbvNnme57sVEfqJ82ZTWbncq/s1600/AMBI0098b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6q1TNAJBTHm00lLHZtceE50N6BOQwEm4s4t3d6eN6FrtSjUGYXB6UjyW5AdOt21Y4DcGKESkZUWqEjb_vITG5_dqD__IOmXzYCwRr2QQ1Q-62rbvNnme57sVEfqJ82ZTWbncq/s400/AMBI0098b.jpg" width="319" height="400" data-original-width="1131" data-original-height="1418" /></a></div>When I think back to last month when I had the privilege to act as a U.S. Army soldier in the film INDIVISIBLE, I am amazed at how the whole opportunity came about, and how well the shoot was completed. It began with an e-mail I received from the film's casting department on May 26th. They were looking for healthy background actors to play U.S. Army soldiers in California. The plot summary intrigued me. It was a war drama about an Army chaplain who suffers with mental trauma after a long deployment to Iraq. This almost ends his marriage. Throughout my 15 year career in the Royal Canadian Air Force I have had friends with similar stories. I knew of the Director, David Evans, from the first film he made, GRACE CARD (I had watched it several times, and had been moved by its intensity and emotion). Also, Sarah Drew, the Executive Producer, was familiar to me from the movie MOM'S NIGHT OUT. Bob Scott, the director of photography, is known for his work on WAR ROOM, FIREPROOF, and the NASHVILLE TV Series (as camera operator).<p> The following Sunday I prayed about the casting e-mail with a friend at church and had confirmation through a vision that we shared that I should pursue this further. There were three problems though: the movie ranch where they were shooting this for ten days in June was over two-thousand kilometers away; I didn't have enough money saved up to afford the trip down south, and our unit at work was having a formal mess dinner which no one could take leave from without the submission, and approval, of a memo. I wrote up the first draft of my memo and leave pass, and submitted it to my chain of command the next Tuesday. In order to make it to the first day of filming in California the latest I could leave Vancouver Island was by early Saturday morning, June 3rd. Thursday, June 1st, I got some encouraging news; I was getting a 6% pay raise, with three years back pay. I would now be able to afford the trip down to California. At work my memo went up the chain of command all the way to the Major. Friday, June 2nd, around noon, I received the signed memo and leave pass. With the encouragement of my superiors, and co-workers, I left for home at the end of the day, making a mental list of the items I would need for the long drive and stay in California.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXMfE0u4IRAA5IW88y0AFETMv3L3lhixakOtgkm8rLdY8GDQGUrheTzCLCvOJOYBtB3Lzk4VztewsjT6kwPi1iZBfEniCInJlzuiajiKCwkcTkUWmBFr4eGVDreFhEisTg6PZn/s1600/AMBI0253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXMfE0u4IRAA5IW88y0AFETMv3L3lhixakOtgkm8rLdY8GDQGUrheTzCLCvOJOYBtB3Lzk4VztewsjT6kwPi1iZBfEniCInJlzuiajiKCwkcTkUWmBFr4eGVDreFhEisTg6PZn/s320/AMBI0253.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div><p>The next morning, around 9:30 am, I crossed the border into the U.S.. My van was searched, and I was interviewed by a Customs and Immigration Officer who seemed to think my reason for traveling was a little odd. I showed them my approved leave pass, the e-mail inviting me to participate in the film, and the memo. These documents all backed up my story. I was approved by U.S. Cutoms to gain entry. I was happy to find out that whoever searched my van ended up fixing the automatic passenger's side window that was stuck.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPwUru613TTOBxsBtvx8fvc6rHzSZKk-tbXdB2Dl3FavTU0M017RTf5SlJSIOLsVVVlPkia62xOailNhDZUL50BGnO9P_ZUwZlaaBVcVGy77KsN29g5XnAfK1LNYsoKBrTbR8G/s1600/AMBI0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPwUru613TTOBxsBtvx8fvc6rHzSZKk-tbXdB2Dl3FavTU0M017RTf5SlJSIOLsVVVlPkia62xOailNhDZUL50BGnO9P_ZUwZlaaBVcVGy77KsN29g5XnAfK1LNYsoKBrTbR8G/s320/AMBI0058.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div> <p> Over the next twenty four hours, along with a couple of short naps, I made it all the way to a rest stop just south of San Francisco. I phoned my wife, Olivia, from there to let her know that I had made it safely that far. Seven hours later I was at a campsite near Castaic Lake, just off the I-5. It was the perfect spot; quiet, yet a short drive away from a busy truck stop with restaurants, and a 7-11 store. From there, it was a thirty-to-forty minute drive to the Blue Cloud Movie Ranch where I'd be volunteering.<p>I arrived to the set early on the first day of shooting. The Hollywood Catering van was setting up for breakfast outside the building that would serve as our cafeteria and holding area for actors, crew, and extras. A row of tables set up just inside the door was spread with craft foods. The smell of French toast and fresh brewed coffee wafted into the air. Four rows of make-up, wardrobe, and cast trailers were parked in the next parking lot where I was told to leave my van. The 2nd Assistant Director found me there and directed me to wait in the cafeteria where a few of the other volunteer actors were seated. I was surprised to see so many crew. It takes a lot of people to make a feature film. After signing release paperwork a group of us were taken to get costumes and make-up done. Being in the Canadian Air Force my hair was already at the right length for a war drama. One of the men in our group had to get clipped.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpNuW4QsjoawZQw2eP5WqoEAlwJdAlqqcj228PD4bwhOLjAcJaM0xMqaiDRMSAwqiS642UP-F_tJZjmoAvSdUBhT-BHQc76_kt6nzi98_ptrWvQX0NQ4o4WwdgeotcKM3e5pX/s1600/AMBI0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpNuW4QsjoawZQw2eP5WqoEAlwJdAlqqcj228PD4bwhOLjAcJaM0xMqaiDRMSAwqiS642UP-F_tJZjmoAvSdUBhT-BHQc76_kt6nzi98_ptrWvQX0NQ4o4WwdgeotcKM3e5pX/s400/AMBI0062.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div><p>Because I don't want to give away any spoilers in this blog, I can't go into the details of the scenes we shot over the course of the ten day shoot. I can say it was a lot of physical work. I felt that the cast and crew I worked with over the twelve-hour long days became like a family. The Director, Executive Producer, Producers, Director of Photography, and starring cast, were patient and kind to us. Though many of the scenes I was involved with were intense and emotional they would inject enough humor from time to time to keep things fun. Though we came to be volunteers a background actors we were given opportunities to play featured acting parts. Nathan Kimball, one of the volunteers, had his first speaking part in a feature film on this picture. Throughout the shoot in Santa Clarita in several scenes we were honored to work alongside some veteran Hollywood actors, many with the common trait that they had acted at some point in their career in the ABC TV Series GREY'S ANATOMY.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqBkAbz5rGX2JPPXfEs1nivd1Ox-8cw8nTx8Ae_rO_eS5NfGDlHQrUZmwynw-OH9_84tRCqRTlOTqs019ZnKJEfyhCxrSW0Ie-SARHq80rKqjrQkKp3gkRZG4DYgVuiLaVQ-41/s1600/AMBI0243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqBkAbz5rGX2JPPXfEs1nivd1Ox-8cw8nTx8Ae_rO_eS5NfGDlHQrUZmwynw-OH9_84tRCqRTlOTqs019ZnKJEfyhCxrSW0Ie-SARHq80rKqjrQkKp3gkRZG4DYgVuiLaVQ-41/s400/AMBI0243.JPG" width="300" height="400" data-original-width="1200" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div> <p> As volunteers we were given privileges. A big bonus was being able to eat from the Hollywood catering food truck. Freshly prepared salads and hot meals twice a day helped to get us through the long days. I especially liked 'Taco Tuesdays' when beef burritos were served. During the final days of the shoot in Santa Clarita it became very hot. Thankfully someone arranged to have natural frozen fruit Popsicle, and a freshly cut fruit, vendors stop by. As talent we felt appreciated.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QpSHCr_VL_zmsDo2vy7-NjvSESDYJqI4wELaaVtcXGBKILjF61jxqVUK02jf97-xTFUwjTjsRtDMzTAV-bsTFlICiEO_JcWEDquv3_NUTLACyWKYOd_8Bpm7yX-HyYV6vjJ5/s1600/AMBI0238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QpSHCr_VL_zmsDo2vy7-NjvSESDYJqI4wELaaVtcXGBKILjF61jxqVUK02jf97-xTFUwjTjsRtDMzTAV-bsTFlICiEO_JcWEDquv3_NUTLACyWKYOd_8Bpm7yX-HyYV6vjJ5/s400/AMBI0238.JPG" width="300" height="400" data-original-width="1200" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div> Sunday we had the day off so I went to CBS Studios in Studio City to meet up with an old friend, Kevin Renel, who was the best man in my wedding in Pasadena in 1990. He was part of a Christian film artists' fellowship that met for prayer and worship in a small studio on the CBS lot. Before the service started I stopped at a cafe on Ventura Blvd for a dark roast coffee and sat on the outdoor patio taking in the view of the tall palm trees that lined the street. It was nice to relax after working so many 12 hour days in a row.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoz11B0BF5AJpmdi0-sTtfe8mW_sjrMzHZUopAyFk-a7RVINsIZZDk6SbexbplUR6kQ_4tBe6vaDEGyFeMETbOxpsUwYFf60WXet0jb59_JhJiV_LYf4Ec6SPfqr1GqmCksfjV/s1600/AMBI0203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoz11B0BF5AJpmdi0-sTtfe8mW_sjrMzHZUopAyFk-a7RVINsIZZDk6SbexbplUR6kQ_4tBe6vaDEGyFeMETbOxpsUwYFf60WXet0jb59_JhJiV_LYf4Ec6SPfqr1GqmCksfjV/s400/AMBI0203.JPG" width="400" height="346" data-original-width="1536" data-original-height="1330" /></a></div><p>The most blessed part of being involved in the INDIVISIBLE movie shoot was meeting other Christian volunteers like myself, who were invited, and felt led to serve in this production. They saw it as ministry. I was able to pray with some of them as we waited for the camera and lighting crews to set up. At times we felt God's presence on set. Hopefully this will carry over to the audience after its theatrical release in the Fall of 2018. Watch it then, and you will find out. Below is the first trailer. <p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gUDz81_yVGY" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>To sign up for e-mail updates on this movie visit here:<a href="http://indivisiblemovie.com/">INDIVISIBLE MOVIE</a><p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrn3-0dxsoFEfHbLtRxUZwDeLdfvQT3J9iMZB3Btf5xFeVdJZ4oZKLneqglDSERjOzSZ6JJZyz-PyrJlYu5CngKX7YWPYHq71slNCNF7vGWQ5xE9bx53R9x1R0DUiTm13YShqM/s1600/AMBI0250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrn3-0dxsoFEfHbLtRxUZwDeLdfvQT3J9iMZB3Btf5xFeVdJZ4oZKLneqglDSERjOzSZ6JJZyz-PyrJlYu5CngKX7YWPYHq71slNCNF7vGWQ5xE9bx53R9x1R0DUiTm13YShqM/s400/AMBI0250.JPG" width="400" height="265" data-original-width="1220" data-original-height="807" /></a></div>robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-56871642544465709372017-04-02T10:00:00.000-07:002017-04-05T16:31:21.280-07:00Training run on the Western States 100 Endurance TrailLast month my wife and I traveled down the west coast of America on the I-5 to visit relatives near San Diego. Along the way we stopped for a couple of days in Auburn where the finish line of the famous Western States 100 Endurance Trail is located. This involved taking a slight detour north/east on highway 80 in Sacramento. A local working in at a cafe in Old Historic Auburn was able to give us directions on Google Maps to the high school football stadium track on Stadium Way, the precise location of the Western States 100. My wife and I soon found Robie Drive and drove down the winding steep road to Robie Point park to scout out the trail head. Since it was already late in the day we decided to find a hotel. The plan was that the next day I would run an out and back of three hours from the Auburn finish in the morning. This route included some good hill climbs and would give me a 12 mile taste of what the Western States 100 competitors had to face. Because I was alone we decided it was best for me to take a small two-way radio with a 20 mile reception radius. The temperature was to reach near 80 degrees in the canyon the next day so I took along 1.5 litres of water with 2 dissolved Nuun tablets. <p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0W9HBF5vBzDDCv68UwrQlKccZ8ypoOIH5Xrn2CTjyz8DQMK6YSMNQjl7WtbwFc0DXBZWk-VMFyKiafOFFXambmfNEt_gPbMeNV5KI_geDdh9rtCN-dicoMcELh_hnZGFI-Jxm/s1600/AMBI0258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0W9HBF5vBzDDCv68UwrQlKccZ8ypoOIH5Xrn2CTjyz8DQMK6YSMNQjl7WtbwFc0DXBZWk-VMFyKiafOFFXambmfNEt_gPbMeNV5KI_geDdh9rtCN-dicoMcELh_hnZGFI-Jxm/s400/AMBI0258.JPG" width="400" height="300" /></a></div>
After enjoying an evening visit to the Auburn Running Company store (featuring WS100 memorabilia in its front window) and the Pub across the street on Lincoln Way, we spent the night in Motel 6 off Auburn Ravine Road.<p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXbdFGK151mRr45X_jb1di3c0Cdy40qTYFGqdV4JKCENuQQfTFDLGwKXPWHTB8O5_wU9UvXp0h98R-8S82mFeOlob2bzUU7n5IF5Dbw0Nt64ffWBXsuwS9wCki9riDK6nVQbfS/s1600/AMBI0259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXbdFGK151mRr45X_jb1di3c0Cdy40qTYFGqdV4JKCENuQQfTFDLGwKXPWHTB8O5_wU9UvXp0h98R-8S82mFeOlob2bzUU7n5IF5Dbw0Nt64ffWBXsuwS9wCki9riDK6nVQbfS/s320/AMBI0259.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoUm09UTfV-HrZHhbmmw7rJ8Pmqt4ozhyVGodjoZm91rHD93-SHslI_gd1tGArme543rXEWpHfwKiZZ2Tx9qQncwuqssONAlMiTJ-DiCfOt3JhkRNT2crhHaNPgT2UpyspkQ7M/s1600/AMBI0271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoUm09UTfV-HrZHhbmmw7rJ8Pmqt4ozhyVGodjoZm91rHD93-SHslI_gd1tGArme543rXEWpHfwKiZZ2Tx9qQncwuqssONAlMiTJ-DiCfOt3JhkRNT2crhHaNPgT2UpyspkQ7M/s320/AMBI0271.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a></div>
While there was still coolness in the morning air I set off from the stadium gate at Stadium Way and headed up Finley Street. Following Marvin Way and Robie Drive I descended to the Robie Point trail-head. With clear skies, and the early morning sun rising over the hilltops to the east I continued on running the wide Western States Terrace trails that switched back and forth into the canyon. The trail narrowed, and became much steeper after leaving the terrace. A rainy winter had the creeks and rivers filled. I ran on tree shrouded, muddy trails, pock marked with horse hooves, for the next 1/2 mile, descending into the canyon. Before long, I was back into the sun. I could see the North Fork American River below. I knew that No Hands bridge crossed this somewhere ahead, so I ran along with confidence, passing a waterfall on narrow wooden bridge. It was so beautiful, I had to stop and take a photo.<p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijREzHGPzIpvn-P9kM_LmBUjQoj0UZZm_j95HQZFcNIJMJHXCvpo5zQmWtiv9xfCAfVqIfPUs5szzahMStACFZ7T3n95MVpr_BLRHjAECxoWeRI4839n1QFHVx62yf_QRc_sPA/s1600/AMBI0299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijREzHGPzIpvn-P9kM_LmBUjQoj0UZZm_j95HQZFcNIJMJHXCvpo5zQmWtiv9xfCAfVqIfPUs5szzahMStACFZ7T3n95MVpr_BLRHjAECxoWeRI4839n1QFHVx62yf_QRc_sPA/s320/AMBI0299.JPG" width="240" height="320" /></a></div>
After crossing No Hands Bridge I took a sharp right turn onto a trail that ascended up into the forest. I was starting to feel the heat so the shade was welcomed relief. Switchbacks led up the hillside until I came into a clearing that gave me a great view of the Highway 49 bridge over the North Fork American River.<p>
On the far side of the clearing I met up with some runners headed in the opposite direction. We exchanged greetings. I noticed one of them had a two way radio strapped onto their camel pack. I had to be careful on the switchbacks beyond this as I crossed over several creeks balancing on rocks so I wouldn't get a my shoes soaked.<p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfv0SUc9MiizNZCoLcGdIP8Uvs5i4H0Nay4E63Vfrb-GFENatJLxdm2OGOK6qhhv6mFf5oin9E1ayKbNThrm65COUuOIZBfnNBla6u1AwyouK2Cj8Fm9xXW3tr8fmkpdDvVHh/s1600/AMBI0265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfv0SUc9MiizNZCoLcGdIP8Uvs5i4H0Nay4E63Vfrb-GFENatJLxdm2OGOK6qhhv6mFf5oin9E1ayKbNThrm65COUuOIZBfnNBla6u1AwyouK2Cj8Fm9xXW3tr8fmkpdDvVHh/s320/AMBI0265.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a></div>
Before I knew it, it was time to turn around. I was one hour and forty five minutes into the run when I arrived at an open plateau where the trail branched off in two different directions. That's where I decided to turn back. The descent back toward No Hands Bridge was fast. I felt the the midday heat near eighty degrees. I tried to imagine what the WS100 racers would feel like when they reached this point in the endurance run with one more ascent to endure, up out of the canyon, to Robie Drive. It must be a great sense of relief. I felt a taste of it as I came down Finley Street after following the small spray painted WS100 foot steps that marked the trail as it wound through the city streets to the finish. I was fifteen minutes later than I had planned getting back to the Stadium Gate. My 12 mile/three hour taste of the Western States Endurance Trail had left my legs burning. My wife treated me to a bacon cheese burger at Local Heroes in Auburn so I could get a good boost of carbs. I had booked another night at our motel knowing that I would need it to rest and recover. My foresight was true.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg-1TQ0s6g81FXMy7cRjnH52rkhGAyYRauc428Ig-RChdIBgvHjzF8Eb81aWnehASJSfUZ53YYnmcnuVyHoYT3bbT5chlOKrY4vqYutuQxIfsqhoEKYPdD5fPKiAjVtjvQc9hV/s1600/AMBI0302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg-1TQ0s6g81FXMy7cRjnH52rkhGAyYRauc428Ig-RChdIBgvHjzF8Eb81aWnehASJSfUZ53YYnmcnuVyHoYT3bbT5chlOKrY4vqYutuQxIfsqhoEKYPdD5fPKiAjVtjvQc9hV/s400/AMBI0302.JPG" width="400" height="300" /></a></div>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Tckbhhe1ETM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-56256869567927553832017-02-17T20:36:00.002-08:002017-03-05T17:36:50.250-08:00Authors can save time and money with Google Maps Street View<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnkZLkyqIUOjQtMaOsjQGjvdAX526HCpr3sJH-9yyUlnNbprf9QULrCFVShatl-yPAQtIwPpUGKLoy4-pwTxX3VmInrrchOzTkbBtMU2EnhYSeXaZqUMIj1OgCbhgguNpKl0M4/s1600/AACbookcover_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnkZLkyqIUOjQtMaOsjQGjvdAX526HCpr3sJH-9yyUlnNbprf9QULrCFVShatl-yPAQtIwPpUGKLoy4-pwTxX3VmInrrchOzTkbBtMU2EnhYSeXaZqUMIj1OgCbhgguNpKl0M4/s320/AACbookcover_.jpg" width="201" height="320" /></a></div>While I wrote the trilogy, <a href="http://a.co/hvefOvk ">Angelic Army Conquests</a>, I found Google Maps Street View to be a great tool for research. Using this, I was able to travel to Israel, and walk the narrow streets of Jerusalem where the climax of this post-apocalyptic adventure played out. It allowed me to accurately describe the architecture, directions, and street names, that my fictional characters encountered. While editing my first book, <a href="http://a.co/gXZ65Bq ">Lost Ark Found</a>, I sought out the advice of experienced writers, and one of the common things I heard them say was, "Write what you know," so that's what I did. My third and fourth fictional books, <a href="http://a.co/825VYTS ">Dance With Me</a>, and, <a href="http://a.co/dK7AWl3 ">In Heaven</a>, were set, for the most part, all on, or around, Vancouver Island. My wife and I would sometimes take day trips to do research at the locations on the island where my stories were set. We talked with the locals, hiked the trails, and stopped for a snack at the small town general stores. Being physically on location to do research helped to add to the authenticity of my writing. Seeing a sunset, or meeting a quirky person, can spark a bunch of creative writing ideas. But when I couldn't afford to travel to Washington D.C., the Middle East, or Koro Island in Fiji, to do research for the Angelic Army Conquests trilogy, Google Maps Street View helped me to get there.<p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ5gGgEOuOQwlFYZMrEiniTJE3UgVm17eclapR7qhlwxEdEzbFiZRFTDhRdpwCYcfVCv9r3axQSMk0dL9KU-QwwkwvhdxIJF7idq66cHMUK1uWPyHpZN-weNoqbgl55v1bbxyk/s1600/IMG_2618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ5gGgEOuOQwlFYZMrEiniTJE3UgVm17eclapR7qhlwxEdEzbFiZRFTDhRdpwCYcfVCv9r3axQSMk0dL9KU-QwwkwvhdxIJF7idq66cHMUK1uWPyHpZN-weNoqbgl55v1bbxyk/s320/IMG_2618.JPG" width="320" height="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaWBwY9fRlUJBg5gSDoay3mxEE_Xe42uBYLX9VyaRbGLt-1QWuNHByGFz9ofpmkwe1addEUHPFmJzN_KaFjycjiUJhdY39fvO5s0ooBIdr8ibkEgtIKGS2gJTjcVKtclaaMua1/s1600/AMBI0111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaWBwY9fRlUJBg5gSDoay3mxEE_Xe42uBYLX9VyaRbGLt-1QWuNHByGFz9ofpmkwe1addEUHPFmJzN_KaFjycjiUJhdY39fvO5s0ooBIdr8ibkEgtIKGS2gJTjcVKtclaaMua1/s320/AMBI0111.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a></div>robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-63777718765600328792017-01-21T07:44:00.001-08:002017-01-22T13:39:35.464-08:00Running with Terry Fox
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUG3k5KU-xGWOHvJPdiem9OmHDFFm1arjNO_4FyCzJ-Hj28MXrWZRQhpDYPYA6VUNiGG7CYsjdwVc7C0Q2_l2xl-mpxOkM9HBkuzig0pYMiUvdTX2vFAS3se8ATV_H5Q0rwUew/s1600/youngrunner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUG3k5KU-xGWOHvJPdiem9OmHDFFm1arjNO_4FyCzJ-Hj28MXrWZRQhpDYPYA6VUNiGG7CYsjdwVc7C0Q2_l2xl-mpxOkM9HBkuzig0pYMiUvdTX2vFAS3se8ATV_H5Q0rwUew/s320/youngrunner.jpg" width="315" height="320" /></a></div>
It was near the end of grade six at Edmison Heights Public School in Peterborough, Ontario, that I first heard the name of Terry Fox, and learned of his quest to run across Canada on one leg. I found the short radio news broadcast of interest because at the time I considered myself a long distance cross-country runner. I ran most days in the early morning before school from my house on Royal Drive down to the Peterborough Riverside Zoo trails that snaked along beside the Trent River. These were the days when Bill Rodgers was at his prime, having won the Boston Marathon, three straight years, 1978-1980. I purchased every issue of Runner’s World to learn the latest tips for diet and training regimes.
<p>
When I heard that Terry Fox would be running through Peterborough I eagerly arranged to have my parents take me to where he would be heading. The meeting place was on George Street out in front of the public library. I was one of about a dozen runners who showed up to run with him.
<p>
He smiled, but looked weary when he arrived, running with an unusual gait, ahead of his support vehicle. We continued with him down George Street. Some of us had plastic buckets that we used to collect donations from pedestrians, who curiously watched us from the sidewalk. There weren’t many people who gave that day. I was discouraged that more of a crowd hadn’t turned out for his reception. We ran with him to the steps of the hotel where he would be spending the night. He took the time to thank us, and shook our hands, before he starting to answer the questions from the media scrum gathered by the main entrance.
<p>
I was so inspired by this meeting with Terry Fox that I upped my training efforts that summer. When I heard that Terry’s cancer had returned, and he had to cut his run short, I convinced a friend that we should run a marathon distance for him and collect pledges.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivezOAf-TKfYhn-lrd-JRmT-Q0pA7AzCsbcariEybKEpi71pPG7_Ze0D659MXTz-H_HDBEBe9WJ7-yJhBgPkKInvh_2leBz3uI_A97N-zDo3GPJyuvUUpEn2UyXdY0OkpmgeZ/s1600/Running+the+Terry+Fox+with+Robin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivezOAf-TKfYhn-lrd-JRmT-Q0pA7AzCsbcariEybKEpi71pPG7_Ze0D659MXTz-H_HDBEBe9WJ7-yJhBgPkKInvh_2leBz3uI_A97N-zDo3GPJyuvUUpEn2UyXdY0OkpmgeZ/s400/Running+the+Terry+Fox+with+Robin.jpg" width="400" height="279" /></a></div>
We wrote on white t-shirts in permanent black marker, “We Are Running For Terry” and set out on a cool autumn Saturday morning. I had only run a ½ marathon once before, so this ended up being a challenge. My parents followed us in their car, and provided snacks and drinks along the way. We began the run on Armour Road in Peterborough, and followed it until it joined another street that meandered through Trent University. We turned onto Nassau Mills Road that runs along beside the Otonabee River, and continued to press on to Lakefield. Looping back on Lakefield Road, fatigue began to set in. To keep motivated the last hours of the run we spent talking about what we would eat when we were finished (A can of Chef Boyardee beef ravioli had never tasted so good).
<p>
By the time we were back to my home in Peterborough the car speedometer said that we had exceeded the marathon distance. We ended up collecting over a hundred and twenty five dollars in pledges, and donated it to cancer research.
robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-16838600279877354612016-10-23T16:58:00.004-07:002016-10-23T17:53:26.379-07:00Altra Olympus 1.5 - My First Zero Drop Trail Running ShoeI've had my Altra Olympus 1.5 running shoes for about a month now, and have put in about 100kms on the trails around the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, so I think I'm ready to give them a valid review. First off, I have to say, these are the most stable maximal trail running shoes I've ever owned.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYZIELi7I_u-U1vQrn4NLdz_QNjDSR0cPpwY3RvPH3j-Foq5N83uYeCE_qnVQty1KogYxJk8wTys8gumakzTnPjtKBFMGNJOoCq4mrbcvnDWRUg6991A8fyXDIJPUlKLHVkJ0o/s1600/fallrun1_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYZIELi7I_u-U1vQrn4NLdz_QNjDSR0cPpwY3RvPH3j-Foq5N83uYeCE_qnVQty1KogYxJk8wTys8gumakzTnPjtKBFMGNJOoCq4mrbcvnDWRUg6991A8fyXDIJPUlKLHVkJ0o/s320/fallrun1_n.jpg" width="320" height="240" /></a></div>
The Altra Olympus shoes were constructed as a "Zero Drop" trail running shoe. This means that there is no change in the stack height difference between the heal and toe. It takes a few weeks to adjust your running style in order to fully appreciate what the Altra Olympus has to offer. I would suggest you use your old shoes on every other run for about the first month unitl you get used to them. The toe box in these is also wider than other shoes I've run in. It's shaped like a foot, which is good, because my toes aren't pinched after running for hours. I find, too, that the wider toe box helps to increase stability. The rainy season has begun on the island but I have never felt unstable as I cross the roots, rocks, and narrow wooden bridges, following the forest trail systems around here. I crossed these obstacles with ease.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA8O5_13nbmUbRBtJc45w2jfZediHKggCRDmAKtFlIee_E1OPwehoee93llm2_RE5WU0mLYE5lezm30gRp1q5hQa_gYo5m0Ja_-9Q38Fac35-lqqlNH-mop3DKrlaHbEhVUgOR/s1600/AMBI0335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA8O5_13nbmUbRBtJc45w2jfZediHKggCRDmAKtFlIee_E1OPwehoee93llm2_RE5WU0mLYE5lezm30gRp1q5hQa_gYo5m0Ja_-9Q38Fac35-lqqlNH-mop3DKrlaHbEhVUgOR/s320/AMBI0335.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a></div><p>
I would highly recommend these shoes to ultra-marathoners, and to anyone doing training runs that are ninety minutes or more. They save the feet a lot of pounding, and are easy on the joints once you're able to adjust your running style. robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-16134981512761719922016-05-21T06:05:00.001-07:002016-05-23T07:49:36.362-07:00Elk Beaver 50 Mile Ultra 2016
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKMo2vmy_FwTCjONGnLBt41gd3k6-fWsciW96S1QtmVisbqEEIDNkfEc9MXnrS-hgK7RVLZrhg07FRCvNVTRbL3vyTfAoK70e9_qPBzSeux0Ty69lDJ3BYjP2ac4P4dBc0Lns/s1600/13245456_992946807454724_3186353861178874915_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKMo2vmy_FwTCjONGnLBt41gd3k6-fWsciW96S1QtmVisbqEEIDNkfEc9MXnrS-hgK7RVLZrhg07FRCvNVTRbL3vyTfAoK70e9_qPBzSeux0Ty69lDJ3BYjP2ac4P4dBc0Lns/s400/13245456_992946807454724_3186353861178874915_n.jpg" /></a></div>
The sky was overcast at 6 a.m. as we gathered behind the starting line at Hamsterley Park on the edge of Elk Lake in Victoria. I had set up my aid station with the help of two friends, Michael Burton, and Randy Hughes. They had committed to man it for the duration of the eight loop, 80km (50 mile), ultra. As usual, with most early morning ultras, I wasn't able to get much sleep the night before. I was up at 4 a.m. to get a boost of carbs, eating a couple of re-heated protein powder pancakes, a cup of coffee, and several cups of water. After running three or four kilometers I shook off my tiredness, and started to feel the Victoria vibe, taking in the pleasant scents of Spring on the forest trail.<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZuRh9bosCCvHCkzN3zEnKPeqVZCxxCTdNjcOU_3m23BOlRndeBNv2v3knWwBj-PJTFMFExZLzBgGAXhgw_xxpOCze5OonBjjD8_4NFXmx3f0J4ivt_l6OY_hWIJUloA4X_xJ/s1600/13221480_992946800788058_6142841838201173620_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZuRh9bosCCvHCkzN3zEnKPeqVZCxxCTdNjcOU_3m23BOlRndeBNv2v3knWwBj-PJTFMFExZLzBgGAXhgw_xxpOCze5OonBjjD8_4NFXmx3f0J4ivt_l6OY_hWIJUloA4X_xJ/s320/13221480_992946800788058_6142841838201173620_n.jpg" /></a></div>
The first 10km loop was right on pace, finished in just under one hour. I wanted to get the first four loops done in around four hours, before the heat of the day hit. Heading out on the second loop I thought of the weeks of training I had put in for this event, how my wife had driven our van as a support vehicle while I was on two long training runs in March and April. I had also been training with the 19 Wing Njimegen marching team, for over almost two months completing many 10-25km marches, with a 25lb backpack. This had all helped to contribute to my preparation. I also had the support of many friends and family behind me. I thought of the verse from the Bible, in Hebrews 12:1 "Since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, an sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us," (English Standard Version).<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTKejj3RSxSDqRWd5ByNyBrV6bDw6OxcAg1VF5j5JU4bcBtDwb4Fc70kVoyOjGYhJUPSLgsR6peeKtjj5Thb7wwrEO5OYtDfzKCd20RBkrDYlu-O1juCrpFzBh9yJoSWaVe6C/s1600/13174001_992946770788061_1716708330778630005_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqTKejj3RSxSDqRWd5ByNyBrV6bDw6OxcAg1VF5j5JU4bcBtDwb4Fc70kVoyOjGYhJUPSLgsR6peeKtjj5Thb7wwrEO5OYtDfzKCd20RBkrDYlu-O1juCrpFzBh9yJoSWaVe6C/s320/13174001_992946770788061_1716708330778630005_n.jpg" /></a></div>
The volunteers at my aid station were great. They even prepared thick cut bacon for me to munch on, that I could take along with me on the fourth loop. It went down so well. I began to eat a mix of sweet potato and honey after loop three, as the power gels I was taking every 1/2 hour weren't settling so well. The sweet potato and bacon helped to give me a boost as I was over the half-way point feeling a lot of energy, on the fifth loop. <br>
At around the 60km mark I felt a pebble in my shoe. As I took a quick seat in my aid station, I asked Randy to check my shoe, but he couldn't find anything. Turns out, it was the start of a blister. It wasn't unbearable, so I pushed through the remaining 20kms trying to ignore the discomfort. The wind picked up, and the skies grew darker during the last loop. A couple of groups I passed on the trail, cheered me on, breaking into applause, when they heard it was my final loop. I had estimated that I would finish in 10 hours, and I came through the finish line at 10:21, close to my goal, and ended up placing 3rd in men's masters. I was elated. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwgaSup2hVhQpkvvBfDRjBUV_0C7MLYtgtsy8qUc-eLpIYWqg1ghw0iIPulODGa8LYr42Ar2w6nfmjMxNR7MxyB6pHQa5l8D0z8oYfTsoOMub0gV0E_ojm8DaGyplbEDN2CqEP/s1600/elkbeaver2016_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwgaSup2hVhQpkvvBfDRjBUV_0C7MLYtgtsy8qUc-eLpIYWqg1ghw0iIPulODGa8LYr42Ar2w6nfmjMxNR7MxyB6pHQa5l8D0z8oYfTsoOMub0gV0E_ojm8DaGyplbEDN2CqEP/s400/elkbeaver2016_n.jpg" /></a></div>
In the evening, after a relaxing soak in the whirlpool, and a dip in the pool back at Howard Johnson's, Randy took us to John's Place, an eatery in Victoria. The restaurant has a lot of character, and a great menu, but since my stomach had almost shut down during the ultra I only could handle the soup of the day - black beans and bacon. It came with fresh baked bread too, all I could eat, which wasn't much. A great way to end the day though. <p> <br>2016 Ultra Training Videos</br><p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/00qRjOrSb40" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-puG4eTZCD0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-27378383059965488922016-02-21T17:07:00.000-08:002016-02-28T06:10:44.738-08:00Koro Island, Fiji, battered by Tropical Cyclone Winston<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeC52FzmSBmUwH__-UAG5MIbehKnuBFlBwlS21LYXDjXTGEwJYgawZn0x2ym-a50E71PCxoaci4khqQp6ISFlYCJwWzIFHTDjXpiGT7ub9L4PLWj7BvRJujQAfYdL9hKoCn3Kl/s1600/AMBI0030+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeC52FzmSBmUwH__-UAG5MIbehKnuBFlBwlS21LYXDjXTGEwJYgawZn0x2ym-a50E71PCxoaci4khqQp6ISFlYCJwWzIFHTDjXpiGT7ub9L4PLWj7BvRJujQAfYdL9hKoCn3Kl/s400/AMBI0030+%25286%2529.JPG" /></a></div><p>
Anyone who has read my pre-tribulation fictional novel, <a href="http://amzn.com/B014HJ27RI">Raptured</a>, will recognize Koro Island, Fiji, as the featured setting where the climatic final chapter of the book takes place. Tropical Cyclone Winston, a category five storm, hit Koro Island on February 20th. Wind gusts up to 325km/h pummeled the island, leveling villages, and stripping away trees. It was the strongest storm on record to have hit the island nation of Fiji. Forty-two people are reported to have died. Nine of those were from Koro Island.
<p>
I checked photos posted online of the aftermath, and was shocked by the devastation. Much of the beautiful tropical paradise that I observed while doing research for my book has now been stripped away. It looks like whole sections of the forests were crushed, and many buildings appear to be roofless or totally stripped away from their foundations. I imagine that the coconut trees, and crops, the locals rely on for income must be severely damaged.
<p>
Fijian Ministry of Agriculture officials, after seeing the devastation firsthand, are considering putting Koro island under quarantine to limit the spread of communicable diseases. Due to contamination, the water supply and crops there are now deemed unfit for consumption. The Public Health Department was mobilized to assist with rehabilitation efforts, with hopes that a quarantine can be avoided.<p>
I encourage readers to donate to the <a href="http://www.ifrc.org/en/what-we-do/where-we-work/asia-pacific/fiji-red-cross-society/">International Federation of Red Cross</a>, which already have a society in Fiji and can quickly spearhead support efforts.<p>
Thank you,<br>
Author Rob Sargeant robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-27783629107641470252016-01-10T07:10:00.000-08:002016-01-26T18:17:18.451-08:00Running with Sasquatch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRLIcl81bZQ_kMss5vVPncv9xgHHcsEoQzSkoSzLt6g6QGp0wYCZSK7rY8zvG1gy55JbljHjv5heCY3Ld59rZQDUXgz49TqDAEJzZwZBhRgid7xQ7hXlPrLJp1EBwZH8iVfpCZ/s1600/robsargeantsasquatch.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRLIcl81bZQ_kMss5vVPncv9xgHHcsEoQzSkoSzLt6g6QGp0wYCZSK7rY8zvG1gy55JbljHjv5heCY3Ld59rZQDUXgz49TqDAEJzZwZBhRgid7xQ7hXlPrLJp1EBwZH8iVfpCZ/s400/robsargeantsasquatch.png" /></a></div><br><left>Above illustrated by Andre Sargeant </left><p>I know some of you won't believe this, but for the past three years I've been trail running with a Sasquatch. When I first encountered the timid creature, it occurred early one summer morning on a narrow forest trail in the Comox Valley of Vancouver Island. I regularly ran this route on Saturdays, during four to five hour training sessions. Since few in the local community are crazy enough to join me running this far, I usually do it alone. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4wsJCMl1L3C-cWkK8IVdRkPTDnpw7emvjgHYLjnLtBqsGC314KBPYnnX5FPO3JShSznzpMTVNEfn_rFHTjibA9yWFYZK52Umu3zs6D8-n25QSpko4qyeqMtzXAYfVkxYIlXo/s1600/AMBI0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4wsJCMl1L3C-cWkK8IVdRkPTDnpw7emvjgHYLjnLtBqsGC314KBPYnnX5FPO3JShSznzpMTVNEfn_rFHTjibA9yWFYZK52Umu3zs6D8-n25QSpko4qyeqMtzXAYfVkxYIlXo/s320/AMBI0027.JPG" /></a></div><br> For weeks as I ran this route solo I had the feeling I was being watched. A couple of times I heard footsteps, and deep breathing, behind me, but in the few seconds it would take me to stop, and turn to look back, whoever or whatever was following me would disappear into the thick underbrush. <br> I gained my pursuer's trust one day by offering them bites of Cliff energy bars (I had them stashed in my Camel Pack). After luring him into the open, amazingly, I discovered it to be a real life Sasquatch. He was able to communicate with simple grunts and rudimentary sign language. I gave him a Power Bar gel, but he didn't seem to like the taste. After taking a few sips he made an ugly face, and tossed it to the ground, stomping on it with his big foot.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-eNwjk40COcnvLmJ5jXrHbPJbQ-8ErH6v7gZS8JfgL7quL5k0or0UYM3TY-kvOFLlOm980U21CDmYoNlQIyOzN_vKAKkGMfH6OaXqCNpUxcR9lRRFM_vuWwF0OMjLDTHJgbdJ/s1600/AMBI0002+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-eNwjk40COcnvLmJ5jXrHbPJbQ-8ErH6v7gZS8JfgL7quL5k0or0UYM3TY-kvOFLlOm980U21CDmYoNlQIyOzN_vKAKkGMfH6OaXqCNpUxcR9lRRFM_vuWwF0OMjLDTHJgbdJ/s320/AMBI0002+%25282%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br> I slowly backed away, and carried on with my run. To my surprise, he followed me, keeping up with my pace. When he became thirsty, he stooped down on all fours at the river's edge to drink. We ran together for almost two hours that first day. I didn't know that Sasquatches were so fleet footed. Since then, he has joined me on numerous training runs. <p>He's a true barefoot runner who doesn't ever need a pair of Vibram Five Fingers when the trail gets tough. He's embraced the 'Green Revolution,' living off only what the wilderness provides. <br> When I qualify for the Western States 100 I'm going to bring him along as my pacer.robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-45492074450525137412015-11-27T17:23:00.001-08:002015-11-27T20:02:40.148-08:00Training with the FITBIT HR<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPA6wxRdDvvuz4U8QPT0ZXL4zmrnCZtfHJ5UKLFVhcgTWEuVOfDwsGUxgjKoCvWUFsWRRBT7BfXGB0Q3MfGN8GsHIIprjuKc83Dk5b4go5A2pGJcfa1mmGR7m_EywQfg9_GwoN/s1600/AMBI0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPA6wxRdDvvuz4U8QPT0ZXL4zmrnCZtfHJ5UKLFVhcgTWEuVOfDwsGUxgjKoCvWUFsWRRBT7BfXGB0Q3MfGN8GsHIIprjuKc83Dk5b4go5A2pGJcfa1mmGR7m_EywQfg9_GwoN/s400/AMBI0004.JPG" /></a></div>
I've been using the FITBIT HR for close to two weeks now. This training aid is quite user friendly and so far has proved to be fairly accurate. I've taken it on runs following low lying, and mountainous trails. Most of the runs were around an hour long and fairly equal in distance according to the steps and distance logged. The heart rate monitor mode indicates how the trail terrain effected the workout, showing that an hour running in the mountain trails has more impact, bringing the heart rate up to and above the 140 pbm range. Pushing the heart rate to its peak cardio range is a great way to build up endurance.<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWd1MoKWdWxKdt8NUn_cVtzfMvUsAbSC-bfk3ohJENK3rJ9OsPHDvqyJVJfbcnH7jX5lUvYYHMeQKE0AUTwwGZyVvYbk9F52-z95KVA-WBzYLWrHIiopPlKkB5H6aqtn6fVeS/s1600/AMBI0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWd1MoKWdWxKdt8NUn_cVtzfMvUsAbSC-bfk3ohJENK3rJ9OsPHDvqyJVJfbcnH7jX5lUvYYHMeQKE0AUTwwGZyVvYbk9F52-z95KVA-WBzYLWrHIiopPlKkB5H6aqtn6fVeS/s400/AMBI0012.JPG" /></a></div>
The FITBIT HR also monitors the quality of your sleep, showing how many times you were restless and awake throughout the night. It records your resting heart rate too, which is always useful to know as an athlete. The transfer of this information all happens through a wireless connection because the FITBIT HR uses Bluetooth technology. It also comes with a 'wireless dongle' that you insert into the USB port and leave there (hopefully you have some to spare on your desktop computer) so whenever you come within 10 feet of it the data from your FITBIT can sync to the Fitbit Connect dashboard. Distance goals are adjustable through the dashboard. When you're running or walking and you reach that goal distance the FITBIT HR vibrates for several seconds to let you know that you've surpassed it.<br>
Care and maintenance: I find I have to recharge the FITBIT HR at least once every four to five days. I have a rapid USB charger so this takes less than two hours to complete. The owners manual states that the FITBIT HR is NOT waterproof but splash proof. They don't recommend that you take it swimming or into a bathtub soak with you. I wear it around the house washing dishes, and have showered with it on my wrist, without any problems so far (might not be a good idea to take it into the shower). Wipe the underside of the FITBIT HR down (the part that makes contact with your skin) with a cloth or Kleenex after exercise. Keeping it clean will ensure more accurate readings, according to the website. <br> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheiHz5Vsew-fy7E2Jk1qc6z6IyxQE6QxTzPUP5GXTRBUNcrWl4MjswhGOpII862SeUPd5Ankn4Y-t7kFYxcwk4yQisj6kq3nLMN8EV28HoREBESo39ERLxRXtJMSjHXfjHjjV9/s1600/fitbithr02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheiHz5Vsew-fy7E2Jk1qc6z6IyxQE6QxTzPUP5GXTRBUNcrWl4MjswhGOpII862SeUPd5Ankn4Y-t7kFYxcwk4yQisj6kq3nLMN8EV28HoREBESo39ERLxRXtJMSjHXfjHjjV9/s640/fitbithr02.jpg" /></a></div>robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-76438119142798182972015-10-22T19:51:00.000-07:002015-11-01T16:42:00.646-08:00The joys of risk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4GilHuffKrxrpE49-o9xmKou6P7ndP4P9hXPcY52Sn0k1zESwB5L3RjDbW1xNNWPhHC3-lCpXQsGEJ0VHqjCCF-d2VFKRfF3AzbSgpMqApXaPY0a0_98OtalHfBYkZMXJ58Oy/s1600/4835comox09ultra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4GilHuffKrxrpE49-o9xmKou6P7ndP4P9hXPcY52Sn0k1zESwB5L3RjDbW1xNNWPhHC3-lCpXQsGEJ0VHqjCCF-d2VFKRfF3AzbSgpMqApXaPY0a0_98OtalHfBYkZMXJ58Oy/s400/4835comox09ultra.jpg" /></a></div>
It can take years to finish writing a great book, and it can take years of training to build up the endurance to finish strong as a runner in an ultramarathon. I began writing my latest book, <a href="http://amzn.com/B014HJ27RI ">RAPTURED</a> in 2011, the same year I attempted my first ultramarathon - The Burning Boot Ultra. The course was a challenge with 64kms of mountainous logging roads winding from Gold River to Tahsis B.C.. At around 21kms I twisted my knee bounding down a steep incline, and was forced to walk. The walk quickly turned into a limp. I eventually had to give-up due to the inflammation. <p>
The next year, in 2013, I was determined to complete The Burning Boot. I found a 16 week ultramarathon training plan online and followed it as closely as I could. The diligence paid off later that year. I finished with the top 15 runners with a time of 7:35. Three months after this, in September, I entered the 56km Great Lake Ultra in Cowichan, and finished 11th overall. It took discipline. I had to push my body through pain, and keep track of my fluid and calorie intake. At times I questioned, "Why am I doing this?". I tried to think of a good excuse to give up, but I didn't find one that would stop me. I pressed on and finished just outside the top ten with a time of 6:03. <p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBgqlxC3HQxgKSM3_S9oOLGpvmCg3jRaYg9B58a5EW5Z0irOj9jze_KYDCWHkrYo3jibjwC9pqerTkfn2CACx5vQjf0URFKHk0bM_INuMlYR2tMzuFnMkQZmQTyrA2t53ZmgWF/s1600/231-IMGP4150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBgqlxC3HQxgKSM3_S9oOLGpvmCg3jRaYg9B58a5EW5Z0irOj9jze_KYDCWHkrYo3jibjwC9pqerTkfn2CACx5vQjf0URFKHk0bM_INuMlYR2tMzuFnMkQZmQTyrA2t53ZmgWF/s320/231-IMGP4150.JPG" /></a></div>
Since then I have gone on to complete three, 50 mile ultras (80kms). My best time was 9:13 at the Elk Beaver Ultra in 2014. I placed 2nd in the Men's Masters age category. <p>You try to minimize the risk as a runner by training properly and having sufficient calories and fluids at hand on long run days. But there's always this risk on the race days, partly because of the terrain, and partly because of the distance. I could break if I push myself too hard. Call me crazy, but I enjoy this. <p> I finished writing RAPTURED this summer. To complete it, I required a determination and resilience like that which I use to complete an ultramarathon. Risk plays an important part in the books that I've written. In each story I have at least one character under some threat. Either their life or their livelihood is at risk.<p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz2xWdOua0ZTJRZAqQ5CCLbuTNAmVwdHdFyal7GuGTkdTrmFr_W5nTdmuaE7BQlef_aKEMgFnx3TdfUN0Wls7jHnPssn27yIv67CIKhWZF_VT_URaUSN8pCtaYLwtXK2pkG_pN/s1600/3finishmay10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz2xWdOua0ZTJRZAqQ5CCLbuTNAmVwdHdFyal7GuGTkdTrmFr_W5nTdmuaE7BQlef_aKEMgFnx3TdfUN0Wls7jHnPssn27yIv67CIKhWZF_VT_URaUSN8pCtaYLwtXK2pkG_pN/s320/3finishmay10.jpg" /></a></div><p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhycUT7Px4ijdF_kk_yAC7hpAg7eCcvCKUblMnaBSrOSFS_rfm7Zj36B5dkY70poWwshLJWpwzbNSMXI1wpJTjkMztKJ8vVU9YYIM1IMQgeVGE2WHZylG5mnefVZKyqoGCFrtxI/s1600/lostarkfound1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhycUT7Px4ijdF_kk_yAC7hpAg7eCcvCKUblMnaBSrOSFS_rfm7Zj36B5dkY70poWwshLJWpwzbNSMXI1wpJTjkMztKJ8vVU9YYIM1IMQgeVGE2WHZylG5mnefVZKyqoGCFrtxI/s320/lostarkfound1.jpg" /></a></div>
In <a href="http://amzn.com/B00GJCAMA6 ">LOST ARK FOUND</a> five preteen boys head out on a two-week treasure hunt with a grandfather on Vancouver Island, facing all the dangers present in the wilderness. The opening sentence of the book sets up the risk at hand: "This story begins with the opening of a book, and ancient manuscript, found centuries ago on the dead body of a frozen traveler, high on the mountain glaciers of Vancouver Island." <p> Brad, an ambitious surveillance expert, one of the characters in, <a href=" http://amzn.com/1607034824 ">A SILENT VIOLENCE,</a> risks loosing a lucrative contract with the CIA when he discovers why a world famous rock star has invited over a hundred of the richest and poorest people of the world to a secret meeting in Toronto.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTJP8ohnrMyRUBV_7YPLEUZmLpRCgJJOKd5z3wAGDn6b-HwkQEFU76KVreUxPOX2QywYl9B7Jd_0NU66Fqh0cz4Rb13bTxw72Z0aDnmJ4cE_WYI3ZZVfOc0JauCnOUPvNsu1Mc/s1600/DWMcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTJP8ohnrMyRUBV_7YPLEUZmLpRCgJJOKd5z3wAGDn6b-HwkQEFU76KVreUxPOX2QywYl9B7Jd_0NU66Fqh0cz4Rb13bTxw72Z0aDnmJ4cE_WYI3ZZVfOc0JauCnOUPvNsu1Mc/s320/DWMcover.jpg" /></a></div><p>In <a href="http://amzn.com/B004RPTJV0 ">DANCE WITH ME</a> Carl Guinness is left for dead, dumped in a river. The Fallen Angels gang attempted to kill him because he wanted to close the tavern they had helped to finance (without Carl's knowledge). Luckily, the bullet hit the Bible tucked into the breast pocket of Carl's leather jacket. After escaping the submerged tarp cocoon, he is forced to live as a fugitive, his life at risk, trying to figure out a way to bring justice to this powerful biker gang. But it seems impossible, until God intervenes.<p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZGG4507ujaMb_S3aqS29b_m_9kLWj3-tbo_IkmX5rH7NzsVvdiP6_g-SU5YASd4Nizw8PeeHGd0XyoJTYh20C56joZh5VI5pmGKsEK4f541xXfeuJtDMBzgy8Nbc2B1SMNVx0/s1600/Rapturedcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZGG4507ujaMb_S3aqS29b_m_9kLWj3-tbo_IkmX5rH7NzsVvdiP6_g-SU5YASd4Nizw8PeeHGd0XyoJTYh20C56joZh5VI5pmGKsEK4f541xXfeuJtDMBzgy8Nbc2B1SMNVx0/s320/Rapturedcover.jpg" /></a></div><a href=" http://amzn.com/B014HJ27RI ">RAPTURED: Angelic Army Conquests Books 1 & 2</a><br><b>Book 1</b><br>Fifteen-year-old Colin Duncan could soon be dead, if his broke, drug addicted father, follows through with a diabolical plan. But Rob Milne, a newly deceased Canadian soldier, joins a platoon of angels on a rescue mission to save him. Can Colin be reached in time, or will the demonic resistance take too long to overcome?<br> <br> <b>Book 2</b><br>After the rapture, the United Nations set up a secret death camp on a tropical island near Fiji to interrogate and annihilate new Christian believers. Rob, and the angelic platoon under his charge, is tasked with the mission of securing the nuptials of a TWA tennis pro to one of the wealthiest men in the world, Russ King. Somehow, this marriage could save millions of Christians from slaughter.<p>
I've learned that risk can be exciting. It adds joy to life in the real world, and interest for the reader in the world of fiction. Don't let the fear of failure or the 'what if's' immobilize you. Take the first steps, lace up the running shoes and jog around the block. Put the pen to paper and write the first paragraph. Create an interesting character whose life is under risk. You'll be amazed how far you can go once you get started.
robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21592805.post-19759397880060931142015-09-14T20:54:00.003-07:002015-10-12T06:18:42.685-07:00Exciting journeys kayaking and writing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibITD6cdcrrDVZwbkXi-_xc33oN0iYVG4OT-2fxqSW51cJf6A8viKKG90F82M7-o_qH1Anfemrc3V-usT9XeOuljCKBclpF9SAGcYfnpdateIaU0gMThmb2SOf1TxQbfskzIU-/s1600/AMBI0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibITD6cdcrrDVZwbkXi-_xc33oN0iYVG4OT-2fxqSW51cJf6A8viKKG90F82M7-o_qH1Anfemrc3V-usT9XeOuljCKBclpF9SAGcYfnpdateIaU0gMThmb2SOf1TxQbfskzIU-/s400/AMBI0027.JPG" /></a></div>
August 26th, a day after the e-book release of my latest book, <a href="http://amzn.com/B014HJ27RI ">"Raptured"</a>, I left for an overnight kayaking trip on the east coast of Vancouver Island. My goal was to kayak from Deep Bay and circumnavigate Hornby Island, a paddle that would turn out to be thirty seven kilometers. I prayed for good weather as I climbed into my sleeping bag at Deep Bay Resort, where I was camping, so I could get an early start.<p> Waking up at 5:00 a.m., through the tent's entrance I could see the rising sun breaking through the clouds on the horizon. I ate a quick breakfast of muesli and coffee, and then waded into the shallow surf with my kayak and some supplies, just after the tide had turned.<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBhHS06CgIxzq2Iyv-FXZtJtUmoDd7UhyT2lO1iy2EuEyV0O7Y7KMaqIOTP5M8M-ffsz_bdXDV8YzbUFUxYv7pGBrY6dBZqtcX0H5V_fkulCBKNbORkmOwdGhyjAgM9rNXNtdh/s1600/AMBI0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBhHS06CgIxzq2Iyv-FXZtJtUmoDd7UhyT2lO1iy2EuEyV0O7Y7KMaqIOTP5M8M-ffsz_bdXDV8YzbUFUxYv7pGBrY6dBZqtcX0H5V_fkulCBKNbORkmOwdGhyjAgM9rNXNtdh/s320/AMBI0022.JPG" /></a></div> The water was calm. The only sounds for the first hour were made by my kayak paddle and the calls of distant seagulls. As I neared Ford Cove, a few anglers in small fishing boats puttered past. Upon reaching the island's coast, I spotted seals laid out on the sandstone, soaking in the morning sun.<p> By midday I had reached the north side of Hornby Island, but ran into trouble because the tide had receded too far. I had to take a much longer detour around the exposed rocky shoreline to continue. It was worth it though, because while doing this I spotted more seals. A group of over twenty of them bobbed in the water, curiously watching me as I kayaked past.<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIRln-2fHlchorUDSG3No-hSQhqF_E-DCBYrvBdE6yZdkuiSwHUymJcI2e8EK6DGWsIpYAzcx2pI0bjLNv5RLJaFg03014MtNVK1dnPC5f0nZ-IaECYZ9bQRMZq4gTvi5GFVUy/s1600/AMBI0061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIRln-2fHlchorUDSG3No-hSQhqF_E-DCBYrvBdE6yZdkuiSwHUymJcI2e8EK6DGWsIpYAzcx2pI0bjLNv5RLJaFg03014MtNVK1dnPC5f0nZ-IaECYZ9bQRMZq4gTvi5GFVUy/s320/AMBI0061.JPG" /></a></div>
I stopped briefly to have lunch, and take drink breaks at various spots along the way. When the wind picked up, coming around the east side of Hornby Island, I had to put some heavy large rocks in the bow of the kayak to keep the keel submerged and the kayak under control. To wait out the wind and waves I sheltered in Ford Cove, having a coffee and some locally made carrot cake at the small variety store/cafe there. One of my books, <a href="http://amzn.com/B004RPTJV0 ">"Dance With Me"</a> had scenes that took place at the wharf, so it was extra special to sit, and sip my coffee, thinking of what my fictional character experienced at the marina.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQwlXKHFVE56cQD285E19tEFyAYFVIIiVv69cWJCoEIO6gRjQXUdm-lc1cDFb4Ob2bkqaEsuAl_KsI_DK9zv4HzltZ8-8eyNEbUPkXel7xWRyGtO0O_eewrdoz7GcZO9q4JWu/s1600/AMBI0111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQwlXKHFVE56cQD285E19tEFyAYFVIIiVv69cWJCoEIO6gRjQXUdm-lc1cDFb4Ob2bkqaEsuAl_KsI_DK9zv4HzltZ8-8eyNEbUPkXel7xWRyGtO0O_eewrdoz7GcZO9q4JWu/s400/AMBI0111.JPG" /></a></div><p>By the time I returned to my campsite at Deep Bay the whole trip had taken just under ten hours. Tired, but excited by the accomplishment, I enjoyed a hot shower in the resort washroom. What a journey.<p>The next day, after I returned home, I checked my new book on Amazon, and saw that it was selling, and moving up the best-selling hot new releases for its genre, ranking as high as #4 by mid September. Over two years of writing work went into "Raptured" - another long journey. It felt good to know that people, anywhere, were now able to read it.<p>
I took some video clips of the kayaking trip. If you're interested you can watch it below. <p> <iframe width="420" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8m4Ldj_2TYw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> robsargeanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17199760294421994029noreply@blogger.com0