Leadville Night Run and Pacing Duties

One week back in CO and I've been immersed (parched?) with higher altitude.  Spent the last three days in Leadville for Brandon's LT night training run that attracted over 30 people.  Since I already love night running and don't really need to practice it, I opted to run the route during the day.  I mean, how could I pass up views like this?

Turquoise Lake Saturday as seen from Sugar Loaf Pass at 11,170 ft.

Brandon was kind enough to shuttle us out to the start point, so we could make our way back in along the remaining 20 miles of the Leadville 100 course.  A beautiful day, fo sho.

Our car service

Boom Days festival was taking place in town, so we took in an appropriate dose of it as well.

Boom Days booming

Nice old Buick in the car show

Another "entrant" in the car show (gotta start somewhere)

Shoot out between Sheriff's boys and a gang (I lost 50% of my hearing)

After about 40 beers, we headed out to support the official unofficial Leadville night run.  Shots of beer (or full cans) for everyone!

GZ works the crowd.

I supervise.

Great to see all the folks and spend time in the beautiful mountains.  Pippit only bit two adults and one small child.  Otherwise, he was an angel as usual.  Thanks, Brandon and family, for organizing and opening your home to a giant gaggle of dirty runners.  It's very much appreciated.

One of Pippit's new best friends (and roommates), Tonka. Gema won't sit still long enough to be photographed.

On the racing front, I've been chosen from several hundreds with the great honor of pacing Mr. Tim Waggoner (Lucho) for the last 50 miles once again at the Leadville 100.  He's flying well under the radar, which is unfortunate for his competitors (I just hope he doesn't drop me).  The boy is dialed in, smart, and his training has been outrageous.  Watch for a podium finish.  Need to read up on my Pacing Guide.

Me (blue) pacing Lucho in 2010 Leadville 100 to a 6th place finish (his first 100).

And Happy Birthday to my mother.  I love you very much!