CFC C2C 100K Ultra: Gravel Roads and Rolling Hills, Running Across Eastern Kansas

What a day that was back on November 6th! I finally have some pictures ready for the blog. Better late than never! Thanks to all who supported the CFC. VA Eastern Kansas finished the Combined Federal Campaign by raising over $105,000 between our two campuses. A tremendous show of generosity! It was an honor serving as the campaign coordinator this year.

 

As far as the ultra went, my run time from VA Topeka to VA Leavenworth was 20 minutes better than my previous fastest 100k (14.5 hours). While this was my 40th ultra marathon, it was actually my first time running for a cause beyond myself and as such, will always be one of my most memorable ultras. It was certainly the most fulfilling thing in running I've ever done!

Echoing my face book posts right after the run in November, I think I'm still trying to process it all. One thing is for sure; no one can do a run like this alone so I want to again thank everyone who shared the journey. Thank you to Sara Zeller and Stacey Askew for braving the cold morning and running the first "leg" of the route with me! Thanks to Dr. Codi Schale for coming out at mile 40 and helping me tackle the straightest, longest, hilliest country road in Kansas!  Thanks to Dr. Stefan Offenbach for his role in instigating this whole thing! A truly heart-felt thank-you to Shawn Hoffman for handling the support vehicle for the entire route, providing updates, distracting angry farm dogs, ferrying runners, taking pictures, and for doing just about everything else that needed doing!  Thanks to everyone who came out in Leavenworth for the finish (I even had a police escort up the hill)! Thanks to the Director's office and Executive Leadership team for supporting and helping  to promote the run.  Thanks also to the Leavenworth Times and WIBW for helping us spread the word about CFC! Most of all, thank you very much to all who have supported or donated to the CFC, your generosity makes a difference!

Finally, special thanks to Jessica, Alyena, Ayden, & Tristyn. I love you guys and you are with me on every mile of every run! 

Now, here are some pictures!

Sara Zeller, Stacey Askew, & I right before the start.

  


 

Somewhere east of Lake Perry (Merriam road going North..I think)



Dr. Schale & I at mile 40.

Cows

Getting to the top of the Hill. Mile 55'ish. Closing in on Leavenworth!

Only 30 more yards!!



 

DONE!  I was surprised, humbled, and touched by the turnout and show of support.
Thanks again VA Eastern Kansas!!!!