1 Week 2 Go

[From Wayne...]

Gentlemen,

One week to go. Here are a few last minutes details before our run:

(1) The weather is going to be cool and possibly raining (maybe even a little snow on parts of the trail) - "Weather.com" (see: http://www.weather.com/outlook/recreation/ski/wxdetail/USWA0096?dayNum=7) says partly cloudy and between 45-58 degrees Fahrenheit. Layer your clothing. Plan to bring clothes to wear after the run - as we will still have a commute back to Portland.

(2) We can plan for a 9-12 hour day (depending upon the trail conditions and our fitness) - as such, we will meet at Casa Centrone (0509 SW Texas Street) for a caravan (we rented two vans) drive to the volcano at 4:00 a.m. (I know - that is butt early).

(3) Leaving at 4:00 a.m. (4:15'ish) will hopefully put us on the trail at 6:15 a.m. This means that we will be running in the early morning "dark" for almost an hour. You will need to bring a hand-held flashlight or a halogen headlamp (do not bring an LED headlamp - they will not illuminate the trail).

(4) There will be a $50 charge per person for the van rentals and the pizza party (and assorted drinks and Gu, energy bars that we will have in the vans for everyone) - yes, that is right, we are planning a post-run "Pizza Extravaganza." I will give you the details later this week, but plan on having your family and friends meet you at our house. We, the survivors of the run, will drive straight to the house from our courageous event.

(5) Take a few minutes to read over the "What to Bring" section of the Blog spot - see: http://useitorloowit.blogspot.com/. Please plan ahead. You WILL NEED more food and sustenance than you think!

(6) Please review the trail map and details of the course - see: http://www.volcanorunning.com/runs/StHelens/index.htm. I have supplemental maps from "Green Trails" and I have purchased the book (referenced in the Volcano Running website - and, this is the first time any of us have completed this trail. We will need to be a team.

(7) On the subject of team - I would like to request that we plan to run together. I know that this puts a crimp in the super speedy runners plans. We can run the first 24 miles together (past the trail washout) and then "lift the yellow flag" for the last 5+ miles and let the group split in any fashion we desire.

(8) Please call me with any questions or concerns (503/720-4701). We are going to have a lot of fun!

I am looking forward to seeing everyone. Enjoy the last of your preparations - this is a great excuse to make multiple trips to REI.

My best,

Wayne