Peak Training Weekend: 30 Mile Run + Mt Adams Climb

Mt. Adams Summit

A 30 mile run and climb of Mt Adams in less than 48 hours would be the ultimate test of my current physical and mental endurance. The early morning runs, mountain climbing, cycling, swimming and weeks of aqua jogging through injury had prepared me for what I was about to embark on. My anticipation for this training weekend had been building over the course of the last several weeks and it was finally over.

Prior to departing for my run I shared a conversation with my mom and a few texts with my mentor. They reminded me that all I had to do was put one foot in front and enjoy each mile of my journey.

The Run Begins...........
My feet hit the pavement and the miles begin ticking away. My mind and body melt together into one cohesive unit. I reach the 9 mile marker in Mosier, Oregon where I stop at a small market to fill my water bottle. I waste no time and quickly get back on the road.

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Rowena Viewpoint: Overlooking the Columbia River, Mile 15.3

Rowena Viewpoint is my 15 mile turnaround that provides a breathtaking view of the Columbia River. At this point I am feeling very confident and begin filling my mind with affirmations that the next 15 miles are going to be easy and enjoyable so long as I take them one step at a time and keep a smile on my face. Moments later I am hit with a 25 mph head wind that that make my 9:30 minute pace feel like a standstill. I come to peace with the wind that visits me over and over as my body travels through the wine country back to Mosier. 

I reach the Old Columbia River Hwy and my breath continues to flow with the beat of my feet right on through the 26.2 mile mark. I feel my pace start to slow and everything gets much harder. Voices in my head tell me that it is quitting time and I should give up. I battle the demon voice in my head for an entire mile. I keep battling the negative thoughts with positive energy. I would rather suffer through the pain of persistence now then suffer the pain of regret later. You have come so far. What is the point of quitting? Accomplishment awaits! Do not give up before the miracle happens.

I break each of the next four miles down into a single step. I drop roughly 350 feet down to Hood River, cross the bridge into town and am met with a 1.5 mile hill that I will have to travel in order to complete my goal. Each step brings me closer to 30 miles. I keep telling myself - One step at a time! Before I know it my watch ticks to 29.9 miles. At this point I feel a rush of accomplishment. The final 1/10th of a mile is like a party in my head. Just as I turn onto my parents street in Hood River my watch ticks to 30 miles. I throw my fists in the air, smile and yell with excitement in a neighborhood that is otherwise peaceful.

I arrive home, share a celebratory conversation with my dad, stretch and relax for the evening. Tomorrow is a new day and a mountain awaits.
 
Previous to Friday I had never ran more than 26.2 miles nor fully understood what it would take to keep running past this point. Now, I truly feel the sky is my limit. 

30 mile training stats - http://connect.garmin.com/activity/352408080

"In order to succeed your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure." - Bill Cosby

The gallery below is a documentation of my third summit trip up Mt Adams. Enjoy! 

Scott Rowley