behind the scenes of an ultra

As a member of a super fun running group (#RUNEATTWEETAZ), I got a rare opportunity to volunteer at an amazing ultramarathon right here in the Phoenix area. I volunteered to help @aravaiparunning with social media at the Javelina Jundred (#JJ100). It's a 100 mile and 100k costume party race that takes place at McDowell Mountain Regional Park.

This may be one of the worst blog posts ever because unfortunately my camera phone absolutely died when I reached the campsite.  How embarrassing to show up to a social media gig and then not be able to take pics. I did get a great sunrise pic on arrival...

I had no idea what to expect; I've never been to this kind of event before. It hadn't occurred to me that the runners would be camping up on this mountain before the race. It was like walking into a tent city.  I was immediately struck by the cool, calm vibe at this pace.   When I arrived, the 100 milers had started about 30 minutes prior. We were waiting for the start of the 100k.

I was in awe of my surroundings.The scenery there is so inspiring, rolling hills through the desert with cactus and other desert plants.  I just wanted to get out there and run!

photo courtesy of Aravaipa Running

The 100 mile race consisted of 6 15.3 mile loops + 1 9 mile loop that are run "washing machine" style, where you reverse directions after each loop and keep passing the other runners.

We waited for the 100 Mile runners to finish their first 15.3 mile loop. They looked so unbelievably fresh as they came in.   Due to it being right around Halloween and the Day of the Dead, racers are encouraged to wear costumes. I loved seeing them crest the hill wearing everything from chippendale outfits, jesters, cheetas, clowns and more. 

Hours after the first 100 mile runner finished lap 1, we were still seeing smiling faces crest the hill at "javelina jeadquarters". People who had just run 15.3 but still had another 85 to go!  I'm talking every shape and size, and people as young as 9 (yes, you read that right) and as old as upper 70's.  It really gets you thinking...could I actually do that?

The winner finished the 100 miler in just under 15 hours.  And a female broke a course record to become the 3rd overall finisher.  Now that's impressive!!!  Most runners had to keep going all through the night with nothing but the light from a headlamp to see where they were going. There was a 24 hour cutoff in order to earn the coveted beltbuckle.



Bottom line: I can't stop thinking about the awesome atmosphere of this race.  I loved the camping aspect, and this had to be one of the smoothest run events I've ever been associated with.  I plan to be back next year to cheer on these incredibly inspiring people again!  To see more pics and learn more about it, visit @aravaipairunning or search #JJ100.

photo courtesy of Aravaipa Running