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Chris Ballou

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Atacama Crossing (2012) blog posts from Chris Ballou

20 March 2012 03:12 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

Ok, I have been home for a week and I have been eating everything in sight. I thought it would be a good time to post some lessons learned from surviving the Atacama Crossing. Please realize that everyone is different and these are the things that I would have done different. Hope it helps. Things that went right: -Crocs to walk around camp -inflatable mattress at night -running in compression shorts -my osprey backpack :) -bringing a small wrist GPS to track distance -bringing trekking poles -happy I had my own camera -my awesome black diamond e-light (red light for inside tent) -awesome tent mates Things I should have done different: -not use expedition foods, their breakfast is disgusting -would have brought smaller backpackers style dehydrated food that tastes better -brought some sports powder mix (cool aid, ice tea) -not worn gortex shoes, fish bowls on my feet -not had so many socks (they dry so quick) -would not have gotten them 2x larger, my feet didn't swell -extra shirt for camp after the long stage -not worn compression tights at night, should have worn something lighter that allowed more air on the body -more snack foods -different types of foods (tuna fish, beef jerky) -have a better recovery drink and plan for post run -better electrolyte plan, and back up plan if nausea sets in -had more sun screen (2.oz not enough) -arrived 3-5 days earlier to acclimatize to the 10,000 ft altitude also note that while it rained, day time temps exceeded 100 degrees F. Living in NYC at sea level and training all fall and winter was not ideal. All and all I am very happy I did this race. RTP staff, volunteers and medical are second to none. I would reccomend anyone thinking about this race to jump with both feet and enjoy the ride. For me, next stop is the North Face 50 miler in Bear Mountain, NY. Thanks for the support.

Comments: Total (5) comments

Pat A

Posted On: 20 Nov 2012 10:51 pm

Good afternoon, I am 52 yo and live in Los Angeles, CA. I have Asperger Syndrome; my 57 yo sister has Autism. (My other sister has Intellectual Disability/Epilepsy, and our brother has ADHD/Dyslexia.) Thank you for going all the way. -Pat

Posted On: 25 Mar 2012 08:48 pm

Hey Chris, good review. I have a great recommendation for electolytes. They have served me very well, both in the Sahara and Atacama. Research "ConcenTrace - Trace elements. If you can't find them, I'll ship you some from home so you can have them for the Sahara. Cheers, Brett.

Posted On: 25 Mar 2012 03:34 pm

I just wrote pretty much the same post, Chris. Funny how the little things make huge differences in that setting. I'm back on the training plan and am going to have to buy some sort of appetite suppressant, since I've been eating like a Biggest Loser candidate for about 2 weeks! Hoping to arrive in Cairo lean, mean and ready to run. I know I'll see you there and can't wait. This work thing is for suckers!

Posted On: 21 Mar 2012 02:43 am

wow...very informative write up. thank you so much for this. and congratulations on your race....

Posted On: 20 Mar 2012 11:28 pm

Great post race synopsis which will be very useful for future competitors. Glad you enjoyed the experience and hope to see you again one day. Good luck in the 50 miler.

10 March 2012 10:33 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

As I am typing this i have pizza and coca cola in my stomach. It feels so good, my body dosent know what to do. Matt and I crossed the finish line a couple of hours ago. I will post again after a short rest.

Comments: Total (9) comments

Posted On: 15 Mar 2012 10:14 pm

What an incredible trek. No matter what the desert through at you, you kept on going. We may never know just how dehydrated you actually were. I'm sure if the doc's knew, they would have pulled you from the race, but surrendering just isn't in your vocabulary is it! That's the kind of iron will power it takes to get through these crazy events. I had no doubt you would pull through, that's the kind of guy you are. Congratulations for fighting the good fight, both for yourself and your charity. They are lucky to have you on their side. I was lucky to have you as a tent mate. Cheers to you and your family - Brett.

Posted On: 12 Mar 2012 03:05 pm

Congratulations, Chris! It has been a pleasure for Argy & me to get to know you. Your accomplishment is even made sweeter as you are doing it for a charity which you hold so dear to your heart! Sorry we didn't get to say a proper goodbye at the aiirport. We thought we were going to see you at Baggage Reclaim :-( Keep in touch and hope to meet again!

Posted On: 12 Mar 2012 01:26 am

Way to go Chris!

Posted On: 12 Mar 2012 01:07 am

Congratulations Chris on courageously accomplishing the Atacama Crossing for GRASP. From Sheila Peck, Dundalk, Co. Louth, IRELAND

Posted On: 12 Mar 2012 12:37 am

Amazing! You guys accomplished something few would consider and less could finish. Have safe trip home. Congratulations! We are all so proud of you.

Posted On: 11 Mar 2012 01:40 am

You are such a friggin' man.....Chris, big, big congrats. What an unreal accomplishment. Thank you!!! mjc

Posted On: 11 Mar 2012 01:06 am

We knew you could do it! Congratulations! I am sure you feel pretty good about yourself right now. What an "amazing" accomplishment. Almost as good as finding your first gun in the Hudson... lol. Enjoy the satisfaction and rest your wounds my friend...

Posted On: 10 Mar 2012 10:31 pm

YOU ROCK! All your friends in Staten Island are proud of you! It takes a special person to go through what you did...Enjoy your pizza and have a safe trip home!

Posted On: 10 Mar 2012 08:22 pm

good job man

09 March 2012 06:03 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

Let me start by saying that I am ok.  I don't even know where to begin to tell you about the last 24 hours... but here we go.

 

I left camp with Matt and we ran the first 8 miles to cp#1 while the temperature was only in the 80's. From there another 8 miles and we alternated markers usually running 100m then walking 100m.  We did this to CP#2 and that's is where I started feeling nauseous again.  I haven't been eating much of anything and it is starting to catch up with me.  We walked to cp#3 and that's where the wheels fell off yet again.  I began to projectile vomit all over what little shade there was and laid down in it.  I couldn't believe this was happening again.  Race Medical was at the cp and saw me puke and put me on a 30 minute hold so I can rehydrate.  No sense for Matt to wait and I felt bad holding him back.  He looked strong and I was a mess.  I wound up staying at cp#3 for 45 minutes until medical cleared me but I still didn't eat anything.  The next cp was 13k away through a very hot valley at 3pm in the afternoon.  This is where I really questioned what the hell I was doing here.  The seriousness of the situation was indescribable.  About half way through the checkpoint was the biggest sand dune I have ever seen, climbing it was like summiting a mountaintop for me.  About 3/4 of the way I had to sit and take a dry heave break (not fun).  I finally made it to cp#4 and took a 1 hour break for the temp to drop.  Ahead of me was another 13k section, with the sun dropping the winds started to pick up.  A first it was refreshing but soon it turned to a full blown sand storm.  I have some crazy pictures to show every one.  A bunch of the little rocks were being blown everywhere including into my body and face.  I kept doing the zombie march forward until the sun went down, then thunder in the distance.  Lighting all around, driving rain.. 30mph wind... I cant believe in a single day I could suffer heat sickness and hypothermia in a 6 hr period.  That is when I got pissed, and decided to kick Atacama in the balls instead of it getting the best of me.  Screw this, while i was still feeling sick i managed to take small sips of water and made it to CP#5.  At this point this point, the storm got worse.  So bad, for the first time, racing the planet froze the course due to safety.  Sucks for me as trekking in the cool night was a lot easier then day.  I slept for the night and began again at cp#5 in the late morning.  I was now in full blown survival mode, i couldn't care about place or time, just knowing that i was so close to failing, so low mentally but managed to finish stage 5.

I made it to camp and just felt well enough to update you all.  Like I said, what a 24 hrs it has been.  For today, I am going to try to eat.  If I cant i will have to walk the 10k finish tomorrow, running is no longer an option.

thanks for all you support, when it was real bad was thinking of what i would post telling everyone I dropped out.  Trying to phrase the words i realized that there is no quitting.  There are too many of you cheering for me.

 

I will never forget this experience, thanks you so much.  Tomorrow 10k then FOOD!!! did i mention food? god am i hungry.

Comments: Total (8) comments

Posted On: 10 Mar 2012 06:36 pm

Please tell me you are done with this thing and that you hiked up your skirt and ran in at least over the finish line! Well done my friend.

Posted On: 10 Mar 2012 04:24 pm

This is the meaning of being true to one's values & beliefs and striving to make a difference in the community and the world at large. Too few people say it but I'm sure they're all thinking it - I, for one, am grateful and thankful that there are people like you out there doing all you can to improve the lives of teens like your son and awesome adults like I'm sure he'll turn out to be with your courageous and amazing role modeling. Take care, keep well-hydrated and have a safe & restful journey home to your wife, son and other loved ones. You rock with your run=:)

Posted On: 10 Mar 2012 04:21 pm

Isn't it incredible how the mind can will the body to continue? You are one strong mutha f'er! Pardon my language. I hope you write a full account once you are home and eating again.

Posted On: 10 Mar 2012 02:49 pm

Sorry I am not there to help you man...

Posted On: 10 Mar 2012 02:27 pm

Chris, you are so close to finishing, hope you are feeling better today. Go for it! Praying for a great finish! Love ya (Matt's Mom)

Posted On: 10 Mar 2012 12:05 pm

Chris, Someday your grandkids are going to read that journal entry, and they won't be able to take it seriously. You'll have to forgive them. It's just too unreal. Thank you. mjc

Posted On: 10 Mar 2012 05:05 am

I am so glad you didn't quit! I would have to change your name from Balls to pu**y. Quit yer whining and go kick that desert in right in the v*lva and bring the thing home! And drink water dumb*ss!

Posted On: 10 Mar 2012 04:45 am

That sounds like a rough 24 hours in some insane conditions. Hang in there, you are so close to the finish line there's no turning back. Succeeding through the tough parts will make the finish line so much sweeter.

07 March 2012 07:46 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

i cant even begin to tell you all how much it means to read all of these comments.  Too many people to name, but I do want to thank you all.  It really helps me get my head straight.  To my wife and boys I love and miss you so much.  I cant wait to come home and EAT!

 

if you wondering why my spelling is bad it is the size of this microscopic laptop, with tiny keys SPENCER!!!

 

ok, here it goes...

 

STAGE 4- The inhfamous salt flats

 

today matt and i decided (and wisely so) to stick together.  My stomach still wasent well so i had to skip breakfast.  i managed to figure out what went wrong yesterday and decided to cut my electrolyte supplements to half the previous amounts and it did the trick. 

The course description had only a 300m gain the first 6 miles and i think it was triple that.  We had to climb up these sand dunes and for each 3 steps up you take, your feet go down one.

 

after the dunes we climbed a ridge and over alot of rocks down a valley and belive it or not more dunes.  my goal was to overhydrate prior to entering the salt flats.  i was averaging 1.5-2 liters every 10k or so.  once you enter the flats it is like a cruel joke someone is playing on you.  afternoon tempuratures were amost unbarable.  we had to walk to entire way,but we made it to cp#3.  after cp#3 you had to walk down a dirt road for 5k, which should be easy but in the heat it took everything i had.

i felt good and my spirts are high as i focus on the 50 mile stage tomorrow.  my feet are still holding up and unlike most here, i am injury free.

 

thanks for the well wishes, my next post will be at camp#6 and i will only have 10k to the finish.  wish me luck for the 50, it is going to suck.

Comments: Total (16) comments

Posted On: 09 Mar 2012 10:44 pm

Dig deep brother......gut check time and you are kickin serious A**. As Keith said, "Truly inspiring", leading by example, in true Marine fashion. HOOYAH HOG!!!!!

Posted On: 09 Mar 2012 10:15 pm

The job is not complete until the paperwork is done. Keith, you know this, but you are absolutely right. Chris, you need somebody to dictate your blog to but we all look forward to hearing from you. Keep up the good work and keep pushing one foot in front of the other. It will be worth it in the end. Godspeed my brother....

Posted On: 09 Mar 2012 04:55 pm

You're truly an inspiration. After seeing all the miles you logged, I decided to walk to the water cooler to fill up my own water bottle (instead of sending my monkey)!! Keep kicking some ass, and know that there will be lots of people here to help celebrate your accomplishment with you!!

Posted On: 09 Mar 2012 03:39 pm

I know I keep repeating myself but as we say in California, "DUDE you are such a stud!" So honored to know you. Get Duval and Child out there next time! :)

Posted On: 09 Mar 2012 03:29 pm

I know I keep repeating myself but as we say in California, "DUDE you are such a stud!" So honored to know you. Get Duval out there next time! :)

Posted On: 09 Mar 2012 03:45 am

My brother..... Truly inspiring, don't know what else to say.. Dig in, keep moving.. By the way, this admin stuff sucks, we need to get someone to do it:) just sayin.. Brother D

Posted On: 09 Mar 2012 01:04 am

Your dedication and endurance are examples for us all. Thank you for supporting GRASP.

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 11:03 pm

Way to go Chris and Matt! You're almost there. What a tremendous accomplishment already! Can't wait to hear the post mortem stories! I am quite thankful I am not there : )

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 10:19 pm

Your 50 today is influencing everything here in my sheltered existence, Chris. Really tough not to think of you. I think the words "Holy crap" have come to my thoughts more often today than I can remember. Big, big thanks. mjc

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 06:37 pm

Sounds like you are in good spirits---keep that positive attitude and you will make it through. Glad to hear you and Matt are traveling together, you will help motivate each other and get through the tough patches. Great job and look forward to hearing from you tonight--the 10K tomorrow will be a cakewalk for you after all this. Hang in there, we know you can do it. Lots of love and see you soon!!!! Me and the boys.

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 04:19 pm

Good job man Here are the updates of what has been happening in the world: - Payton Manning was released – he and the owner were crying on each others shoulder during the press conference – 12 teams are trying to sign him - Spring training is in full swing – Mets already lost the season and are mailing it in the next 162 games - the big controversy of the day is….”pink slime” which is the leftover cow parts that cannot be used get ground up and chemically treated and then made into burgers they give school kids…wtf - massive solar flares right now – end of the world - And lastly, billions of people did not have the balls or intestinal fortitude to even attempt what you are doing right now.

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 04:17 pm

Suck it up Marine!!!!!! You are almost there. Keep it up.

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 03:21 pm

Balls, You sound motivated! Glad to hear it. You finally embraced your inner Marine. One more heaping pile of suck before the pain and misery becomes pride and glory. Get some dude! CS

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 01:27 pm

Chris, we are all so proud of your and cheering you on! What you are doing is so amazing. You deserve the biggest dinner when you get back!!

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 01:14 pm

What a great thing you are doing! I love GRASP, and I grew up on Staten Island, and a good family friend is a retired detective in private security (you probably know each other.....). What a great example for your kids. My dad ran marathons into his 70's. Keep it up, one step at a time, every step takes you closer to your goal. When I am attempting to accomplish a difficult physical feat, I keep in mind how hard my son, Jeremy, has to work just to get his motor planning right to follow through on everyday gestures we take for granted. Jeremy has had to learn every physical movement with hard work. I'm going to share your story and accomplishment with him. He has autism and he likes to hear inspirational stories. You are an inspiration! You have come this far, all your supporters are there with you in spirit. A Few more steps, one at a time!!! Thanks for all you are doing, Chantal Sicile-Kira

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 12:34 pm

You are doing great!!1 Keep it going!!! Keep breathing in and out and stepping one foot in front of the other like our AS kiddos do in their journey. This is a great thing.

06 March 2012 06:10 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

today was going according to plan until I started throwing up at mile 21.  it had to be 100 degrees and I couldn't hold down any food or water and had 5 tough miles to go.  we had to climb up and down several large sand dunes.  If it wasn't for the support of another competitor I would have been in a bad place.  I think I took too many electrolytes or not enough water...my feet are healthy and i will eat and sleep to recover. tomorrow is the salt flats and I intend on slowing down to avoid it again, i must stay healthy for stage 5.

 

thanks for the support and hopefully i will have better news tomorrow.

 

goodnight.

Comments: Total (17) comments

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 01:32 am

You are brave and inspiring!! Keep up the heroic job! Cheers and lots of applause. I'm a mom of a child on the spectrum and I wish I had the physical stamina to do what you are doing. I'm there in spirit. Thank you from lots of us parents who are cheering you on.

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 01:23 am

You can do it Chris! Hang in there. Stay focused. Be safe. Love ya. I'm so proud of you :)

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 01:11 am

Keep going strong but take care of yourself first. You are more important than the race. there will be other races but only one you. We are routing for you : )

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 01:06 am

What you are attempting is awesome. Thank you for striving so high for GRASP!

Posted On: 07 Mar 2012 09:19 pm

Hang in there, you are more than half way there and we know you can do it! We'll have an extra large pepperoni pizza and rainbow cookies waiting for you...every step you take is bringing you closer to the finish line. Stay strong and we are proud of you!!!!

Posted On: 07 Mar 2012 09:17 pm

Hey,Dad!I know it's tough,But hang on!!!!!!!!Also Don't throw up again...OK!Anyway....WRESLING ON SUNDAY!!!!!!!! But take a shower and Brush your teeth,Too.And for the 3RD Time,WHAT PLACE ARE YOU IN!!!!!!!!-Spencer :)

Posted On: 07 Mar 2012 09:12 pm

Chris, All I can say is that you're AMAZING! I know you'll finish! Thanks for doing this for our kids...

Posted On: 07 Mar 2012 08:26 pm

Thank you for what you're doing! Endurance is what people with Asperger's Syndrome must learn to live with every day. It's learning to love the challenges and difficulties daily that makes life so wonderful. What you're doing is wonderful. Thank you!

Posted On: 07 Mar 2012 08:09 pm

You rock this trip around the sun!!!! Cheers and hurrahs to you!!

Posted On: 07 Mar 2012 07:36 pm

Chris, it's unreal to read this and think of you out there. I was talking to Terry and told her about my having just finished the 60-day "Insanity Workout" at age 47, and that if it wasn't for you, I'd think myself God's gift to fitness. You're amazing. This is just so wonderful for all of us at GRASP, Chris. I'd barf for you if I could. Just be smart; as with your ability, heart, and the absence of bad luck, you're gonna be there. Gratefully, Michael John

Posted On: 07 Mar 2012 07:17 pm

You got this man – stay strong

Posted On: 07 Mar 2012 05:02 pm

Stay Strong brother, everybody is pulling for you back home.

Posted On: 07 Mar 2012 03:05 pm

Take a knee, face outboard and drink water. Time to dig deep, get the sand out of your Virginia and bing it home! Pulling for you.

Posted On: 07 Mar 2012 01:00 pm

Hey Chris, keep up the good work! Charlie & I are following your blog everyday & we KNOW you'll kick butt! Thanks so much for bringing awareness to the Autsim community ;) We look foward to seeing you when you get home. -Gina

Posted On: 07 Mar 2012 05:39 am

Hey chris, I I met you at the sunset tower hotel working the vanity fair party. I've been reading your blog and keeping up with the race. You are quite the inspiration man. I hope you can see my email address but if not it is [email protected] please get in touch with me in the weeks to come so we can stay in touch. Stay strong, run strong, and be well my friend

Posted On: 07 Mar 2012 05:05 am

Keep up the good work Chris. We are all very proud of what you have accomplished so far. Sounds like one helacious event. Just think of the cause when it gets tough and I'm sure it will help you through.

Posted On: 07 Mar 2012 03:41 am

Your feet weren't healthy when you started, how did they get better!:) Keep it up Chris, we are all pulling for you..

05 March 2012 07:51 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

the day started with 2 river crossing in the first couple of miles, since my shoes are gortex (bad choice) i had to take them off each time.  after that we had to climb up out of the river canyon up the side of a mountain and along a ridge gaining altitude to CP#1. my strategy was to take it easy and not push it with all the climbing.  the course director rated stage#1 as "moderate" and rated today as "difficult"so i took the warning.  Several miles along the ridge and we came to an amazing valley.  the trail ran along the edge to a deadly drop so i made sure to hug the inside.  then the course turned sharply right and you had to run down a sand dune about 1000 or so feet.  it was awesome to go all out and let gravity do the work.  after that was CP#2, i did another sock change to get rid of the sand and began to enter a small section of salt flats.  a salt flat is like walking in soft dirt which the first 2-3 inches is crusted salt.  it is not enjoyable at all.  after that we were treated to yet another river crossing, if you didn't feel you way across with you lead foot you could have gone waste deep.

did another sock change and enter the Valley of Death, yes that is its actual name.  This is where the wheels started to come off.  i was in direct sun for several hours and dehydration set it.  i couldn't eat and felt very sick.  i managed to pull through to the Last Tree.  Got its name because it is actually the last tree before entering the salt flats again.

another tough 10k and i saw the camp#3 in the distance.  man was i wiped, i stopped for a minute to pour water on my head.. or throw up, cant remember which, and thought about my charity and my family and how lucky i am.  it helped a lot. I finished today in 90th place, but was happy just to finish.  it took me 3 hours to rest just to get the energy to come to the cyber tent to send this.  i managed to drink 3 liters of water and started to turn around.   i got 2 blisters and will watch them closely.  tomorrow is said to be the toughest 26 mile stage, so don't get concerned if you see me drop in the rankings. 

 

thanks for checking in to hear about the race.  if ready this inspires you, its not too late to donate to GRASP.  www.causes.com/runforgrasp

tell your friends.

 

wish me luck for tomorrow.

Comments: Total (7) comments

Posted On: 08 Mar 2012 04:13 pm

Great Job!!! Keep it up!

Posted On: 06 Mar 2012 09:44 pm

Keep it up. This is a walk in the park for you, I can tell. Watch out for the blisters and keep moving!

Posted On: 06 Mar 2012 08:52 pm

hang in Babaloo.. Don't worry about falling back in the standings, so unreal you are doing it. Remember the Ho Chi Minh shuffle and carry on :) very proud of you.. Brother Dickie

Posted On: 06 Mar 2012 08:52 pm

That'd better not be self pity I'm reading Marine! Embrace the suck! You had harder days in pre-boot camp. Get some.

Posted On: 06 Mar 2012 05:44 pm

Just keep moving Chris...doesn't matter how slow. Just keep the feet and legs moving forward. I see that you're side by side with Dianette...hopefully having some good conversations. Tell her I say hello. Keep up the good work.

Posted On: 06 Mar 2012 01:37 pm

Keep up the great job!! You are doing amazing...one foot in front of the other, you are mentally tough and I know you'll keep catching people along the way. The boys love you and will email you when they get home from school. They said to tell you Lucky is in your spot on the bed, but he misses you, too. We are so proud of you! Way to go!!!!

Posted On: 06 Mar 2012 12:59 pm

Good job man – looks like you are putting your blister skills to work early. Is the rain all gone now? Ready all the other runners blogs sounds like everyone is getting dehydrated – drink some extra water man.

04 March 2012 06:15 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

thanks for all the well wishes.  well i bet you are all wondering how i did today.. but first i will cover pre-race since the cyber tent was closed yesterday due to heavy rain... yes, rain. 

 

pre-race

went through gear, medical and admin with no issues.  we then boarded a bus for camp #1 which was a 2 hour trip.  Everyone waas pounding water all morning and by the time we arrived we were all jumping up and down running off the bus to go.  I met all 7 of my tentmates and they are really cool.  a good mix of talented ultra runners and first timers myself.  around 4pm rain started to really come down for a while.  my pack got a little wet but i dried it over night.  i fell asleep  after eating my awesome dehydrated meal for about 2 hours then wokie up and couldnt fall back asleep until around 11pm.  woke up for a bathroom break again at 3:30am and my throat was so dry i couldnt even swallow.  afte i that just stayed awake until the start of stage 1.  i guess sleeping at altitude is difficult.

 

stage#1

i kept to the plan and used my trekking poles for the first 7 miles and managed to hold a pace of 4 miles per hour.  at mile 7 i began to run and did well.  the terrain is amazing and i felt strong.  miloes 10-12 where a slight uphill over rocking terrain and it started to get really hot.  there was no shade to be had.  miles 13-16 were brutal, all up hill in a canyon to the last checkpoint for the day.  this is where the running caught up with me.  i started feeling a little sick.  i was happy to see a nice down hill for about a mile and started to run again.  way off in the distance i could see camp#2 on the horizon.  i looked close but i knew it had to be at least 2 miles more.  i still felt a little sick but decided to run/walk to the finish.  i placed 93rd, which i was happy with.  i immediatly went to my tent and had to lay down.  i tried getting up but kept getting serious calf cramps.  i realized that i havent went to the bathroom since cp#2 so started driking a lot of water.  for the rest of the day i plan to eat, stretch and drink.my feet we pretty good considering and i have no blisters YET!

 

my plan for stage #2 is to agaihn warm up in the begining and begin to increase my pace throughout the day.

 

thanks for all the comments, it makes me smile.. even though i am in a tent typing with about 12 other really smelly people (including myself).  oh, anoghter funny note, left my toothbrush and toothpaste at the hotel so it is going to be interesting.  i may have to breathe on Lebow every day to do a breath check.

 

until tomorrow,  i am signing off.

 

chris

Comments: Total (10) comments

Posted On: 06 Mar 2012 02:45 am

Eat your dehydrated food with H20! If you guys smell already, you will know what an Afghan party smells like in 6 days. Not awesome! It wont take Lebow long to figure out your insides are already dying. Run you bum! Hooyah!

Posted On: 06 Mar 2012 02:33 am

Go get'em Chris...from one you gave a climbing cert to 10-odd years ago). You might just have to teach me your wisdom again as I run in Jordan in May. Cheers to you and stay strong. Has to be an awesome experience.

Posted On: 05 Mar 2012 11:12 pm

Nice job! Keep it up. One stage down and now you know what to expect.

Posted On: 05 Mar 2012 11:06 pm

\"I wouldnt hug you - Spencer your NUTS!\" - keep pushing... your making me go back for another beer...

Posted On: 05 Mar 2012 11:04 pm

"I wouldnt hug you - Spencer your NUTS!" - keep pushing... your making go back for another beer...

Posted On: 05 Mar 2012 06:29 pm

Sounds like you are doing a great job and being smart. Drink as frequently as you can massage those calves. The boys are proud of you and when I told Spencer about how you must smell like a goat by now, Spencer said "I don't care, I'd still hug him". Stick with your plan of slow and steady, you will keep picking people off. Hope you had fun on that sand dune! We love you!!!!

Posted On: 05 Mar 2012 05:10 pm

Great Job Chris! Keep it up!

Posted On: 05 Mar 2012 03:20 pm

Keep pushing Babaloo.. you are making me go back out for a run:)..

Posted On: 05 Mar 2012 02:52 pm

just make believe all the runners ahead of you are perps and you are chasing them down, i expect you to finish in first place, somebody has to. good luck my friend.

Posted On: 05 Mar 2012 04:06 am

drink some more water my friend. Have you been warm enough at night? BTW - you didnt bring to much food, they didnt bring enough. It is snowing here today...not a whole lot else happening. My son and I are still training for our event.

03 March 2012 02:13 am (GMT-04:00) Santiago

Just checking in, the 24 hour journey to San Pedro de Atacama is complete after a 1 hour bus ride in total darkness. I just woke up an slept well considering we are just under 9000 ft. I am getting ready to go to competitor briefing and check in. I saw a couple of other competitors with these miniature back packs. Makes me think that I brought too much food. I know that i trained a certain way an shouldnt be easily influenced, but you cant stop wondering with all the variables in a tace like this. Optional equipment such as a camera and extra food may be shed prior to the start. Today will be pretty busy so the next post will be from the cyber tent. Plan for stage #1: Use trekking poles for the first half of the stage, the run remaining half. Take care of my feet and eat every hour.

Comments: Total (5) comments

Posted On: 04 Mar 2012 08:32 pm

hope the first leg went well. Anxiously awaiting your accountof how things went! Love you!!!

Posted On: 04 Mar 2012 03:50 pm

I'm so excited for you Chris, you go get 'em! What an amazing thing you are doing.

Posted On: 04 Mar 2012 03:51 am

You trained for this your way. Time to get it on CB!

Posted On: 03 Mar 2012 07:39 pm

Glad to hear you got some rest and that the altitude isnt a factor. Go get 'em!

Posted On: 03 Mar 2012 10:35 am

good luck Ballou

29 February 2012 02:40 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

I just wanted to thank everyone who has supported me for the run across Chile so far. Some gave generous donations; others met me late at night and logged hours in the trails

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Posted On: 03 Mar 2012 01:05 pm

Good luck and stay safe! -Charlie and Gina.

Posted On: 02 Mar 2012 12:07 am

We are so proud of you and look forward to hearing all about your adventures. You are ready, so go out there and conquer! Lots of love, Terry and the boys (and Lucky).

17 January 2012 03:19 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

Still plugging away the miles, despite the cold 12 degree temp did a impromptu marathon this past sunday and hit 13.1 in 1:58 and finished 26.2 in 4:09. Left the pack at home to give the knees a rest. My motivation is growing everyday and I can't wait to go to Chile and spend the days running and meeting other crazy people from around the world! See you all in Chile!

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07 January 2012 06:10 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

Training is picking up again after all the holiday feasts. I did 25k last night with a 15 pound pack and did another 25k today without a pack. I am still concerned about the altitude and have been asking some mountain climbers for some advice and reading a lot of articles. Show up 3 weeks early... show up the day before... green tea extract... altitude tent.. and the list goes on and on. After thinking about it, I will begin some interval training to increase my heart rate during training in hopes of softening the blow of 13,000 ft. If you completed the Atacama Crossing before your advice is welcome. On the logistics side, put all food and equipment in my Osprey today and came in at 23.5 pounds without water. Is that too heavy? Well with 57 days to go my motivation is growing everyday!

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Posted On: 17 Jan 2012 11:23 pm

Thanks for the advice Alina and David. Since I can't show up early I will take it easy during leg 1 while I acclimatize. I managed to go through my pack and snip gear and food and got rid of another 7-8 oz. Trimming the ExPed food really added up! Soon we will be at the start!!

Posted On: 09 Jan 2012 04:14 am

Hi Chris: I'm enjoying your blog and wanted add a quick something here. Regarding altitude, I liked David's comment (if, for no other reason, than the thought of competitors doing press-ups at various tourist spots around the desert makes me smile), and it is true that getting to San Pedro early to acclimitize will help you. I wouldn't worry too much if you are unable to do this, but (regardless) I would take the first day or two of the event a bit slower so that your body is not too stressed (the first day will be the highest altitude of the week). Regarding the backpack weight, the average competitor backpack weighs between 15-33 pounds without water, so you fall right into the middle. That's pretty good. Some competitors are very creative at dropping weight (i.e., cutting off the edges of food packaging, finding more lightweight products, etc.) so you can probably shave a couple of pounds here or there, but do make sure you bring adequate amounts of food. We look forward to seeing you soon! Alina

Posted On: 09 Jan 2012 01:27 am

Chris, I'm a virgin at ultramarathon, but altitide is something that I DO know about (at last, I have something useful to contribute). I'm planning on the old moutaineering adage of 'climb high, sleep low'. I'll be getting to San Pedro two days before the race and will take a bus to get as much altitude as possible in the morning (there are some hot springs nearby at about 3500m). Once there, I plan to run around, run on the spot, do press-ups etc for an hour or so (the key is to stress your body in the rarified air), then get back to San Pedro to chill out by the pool and rest. I'm going to do this on both days. The acclimitisation process takes place while you sleep at the lower level and it's key to be well hydrated and rested for this to happen. I've done this on a number of trips to the Alps and Himalaya and (so far) have always acclimitised well. See you in Chile man!

24 December 2011 11:43 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

A big thank you to everyone for supporting and cheering for last week. I ran a 50k with my full weight race pack in the trails of the Greenbelt in Staten Island, New York. at the NYARA trail running festival. The trails were really wet and muddy, volunteers were amazing, and a chicken cutlet hero waiting for me at the finish line. Finished with a time of 6 hrs and 11 minutes. Wow, am I tired! Great race, good job NYARA.

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Posted On: 29 Dec 2011 09:27 am

Wow!

06 October 2011 05:27 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

Hey everybody, Thanks to all those generous people that already donated to GRASP so far. We are at $885 and trying to break $1000 before the weekend is up. If you want to donate go to: http://www.causes.com/runforgrasp and click "see the cause" to donate. Training is going good so far. The other day I decided to treat myself and ran a flat crushed gravel running path without a pack. From being in the trails so much I felt like I had rollerblades on. I averaged around 8:30-8:45 pace for the first 5-6 miles then slowed to a 9:00 for another couple. Today was a rest day but tomorrow is a tough one. I will be in Bear Mountain, NY and running 20 miles with a 15-pound pack alone since my training partner Matthew LeBow is sick. Get better Matt. Tomorrow's goal is to finish the 20 miles in 5 hours with some good elevation gains. I have done several 15-17 miles runs so jumping to 20 should not be too bad. Wish me luck!

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02 October 2011 07:17 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

One major concern I have is how my body will react above 10,000 ft. I see a lot of stuff on the internet about ways to improve adjusting to altitude but wanted to see if anyone else had so advice. My training is going well, I did a mountain half marathon in central PA 2 weeks ago with my race pack and felt good. I am slowly building my mileage and I am currently doing 2 long runs per week and averaging 50 or so miles. As much as I can prepare I am still worried about the elevation. How does someone who lives at sea level train for something like this? Thanks for your help, Chris

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Posted On: 17 Nov 2011 02:36 pm

Hi Chris, I live in NC so I am also concerned about 10,000 ft. I have heard just go a few days early to get adjusted. I just did Sahara and it was awesome.

Posted On: 09 Oct 2011 10:00 pm

Hi Chris, remember that you start at that altitude and then go down from there. From what I hear, the altitude issue, if any is only the 1st day. I live in FL so I am in the same boat. A good friend of mine here in FL has done all 4 deserts (and she did them in 1 year, last year). She said that she really did not have a problem. I plan on getting there a few days early to do some runs on the hills. I hope this helps!

Posted On: 03 Oct 2011 08:51 am

Hello Chris, living in Hamburg at sea level I have the same problem. I slept in a hypoxia tent for 10 days before I climbed Kilimanjaro. You can rent the tent (at least in Germany).I only made it to 5400m but the first 4000m were fine. But for 3000m its propably enough if you get to the desert 1 week ahead of the race.

04 September 2011 04:47 am (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time(US & Canada)

It is official, in 182 days I will be at the start line of yet another adventure, Chile 2012. My training is moving along on schedule and I am almost done selecting all my gear. I selected an Osprey Exos 34L ultralight backpack and fitted it with an old Moletracks chest pouch to carry food and meds. I went with the 34L so I can carry my mattress inside the pack and not have it bounce around. Now that the pack is all set, I have begun to integrate carrying it with 70% of my anticipated race weight to all my runs. I am still up in the air for a sleeping mattress.. I was going to go light with a simple egg foam mat, but I am on the fence with a ultralight air mattress. I am considering the AirMat Basic UL 7.5 M... coming in around 12.5 ounces it may be worth the weight. The only thing that is upsetting is the all the recent damage (Hurricane Irene) to the trail system near my house. I went for a 12 mile run this past weekend and the trails were absolutely destroyed making it difficult to run on due to dozens of big fallen trees and debris. I guess for the time being I can do some road work. I will continue posting as my training progresses.

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Posted On: 16 Sep 2011 02:04 am

thats grea t sounds like you are prepared i am also planning to run the race,,picking out my gear as well iwish you the best