My First Ultra Marathon

       About 5 months ago I registered for an Ultra marathon  called 24 the Hard Way.  An Ultra marathon is more than  a full marathon  which is 26.2 miles. I hadn't planned on doing anything like this and just finished only my 2nd marathon running the Oklahoma City Memorial. I had broken most of my personal records in racing times this year after getting back into running shape.  I know 6 months ago that running a 12 hour Ultra would be another challenge and one for the record books.
    
        24 the Hard Way Ultra marathon  took place at Bluff Creek park on October 23, 2011 at 6:00am which consisted of a 6, 12, and 24 hour races on a 1 mile asphalt loop. They had a tent setup for us at the start which all spectators and friends were going to be. They had food and drinks for all runners when we ran under the tent. I ran the 12 hour race that started at 6:00am. It was dark when we all got started and I wore my headlamp for an hour and a half, before I retired it!! 
   There were many friends and supporters out there that were very helpful  and encouraging which was a real blessing while doing a 12 hour race and definitely shouldn't be compared to  any of the shorter distance races!! A mile per pace isn't the same in an Ultra as it is in a 5k or 10k race and is not a speed run. Who ever thinks that, hasn't run one yet or might not ever get there.!! After running the Ultra it seamed like the full marathon was a much shorter race and should be a much easier race next time because of the Ultra!!
    I had running buddies that ran with me that day, Laura Ward and Kevin Lynes ran start to finish and we all got bracelets from the race!! I had no problems during the 1st 8 hrs of the race. I  aggravated an old injury in my right foot that slowed me down to a walk/run. My personal goal for the Ultra was run 60 miles in 12 but I did 46 miles and 48 laps!! Adding an Ultra to my running status has been awesome. Doing 2 marathons and an Ultra as long races within a year has been very intriguing. I actually enjoyed this race and would like to do it again next year. If your looking to do run an Ultra I recommend this race.
  All the volunteers and supporters were awesome in the race. They really took care of me and other runners during the race!! I wanted to say thank you so much if u were reading. My next race is Rt 66 Tulsa half marathon the weekend before Thanksgiving. 
                 God bless u all and  live long and prosper 
                                                 RLBJ