Bishop High Sierra Ultramarathon Race Report, Bishop, CA

May 21, 2011

Amidst doomsday prediction, a small flock of runners took their chances at this year's Bishop High Sierra Ultramarathon. A gamut of races was put together by race director, Marie Boyd. Before it's over, I'd like to take a peek at paradise.

The first 6 miles were rolling sandy dirt road with panoramic view of surrounding valley and picturesque snow peaked mountains. As my eyes awed, my heart beat faster at every step gasping for precious air. Everyone turned into silent mode as altitude increased. That wasn't for long as aid stations were strategically placed to benefit runners. Lo and behold, Buttermilk Road AS served hot blueberry pancakes. I wasn't competing for first place. An extra minute for pancakes won't hurt. Buttermilk AS at Mile 11.27 marked the turnaround for the 20 milers. The 50k, 50m and 100k runners continued thereon.

Scenery changed as the course passed boulder formations, tree vegetations, wildflowers and the constant view of white mountains. It wasn't as hot or cold unlike previous years as other runners uttered. How could weather be this good on Judgment Day? More uphill remain as the course approached a major aid station, Edison Loop M17.40. Runners passed this station three times. The road leading to Edison Loop was very rough and rocky. I stopped on a creek crossing planning my move. Luckily, a runner coming down the road pointed a safe detour. I was comfortably ahead on cutoff time. No need for me to drop to 50k distance as it was their turnaround point. Thus far, my lungs handled the 8000 ft altitude well. I'd soon find out as I was 3 more miles away to Overlook Peak at 9400 ft. Keep hydrating, I kept telling myself even early in the race. Approaching the peak, snow covered sections of the road to about 1 ft. Never mind the missing snow man, Overlook Peak was the most spectacular part of the race. Eureka ! it was paradise at M20.39. Again, another extra minute of stay won't hurt to admire the surrounding. It's still a long way to go and several challenges ahead.     

Coming down Edison Loop #2, I filled my stomach with solid food from my backpack. We're still in high altitude and the upcoming trails are rugged rolling hills. The section leading to Bishop Creek Lodge turnaround was unending path. I dug deep within myself even as the race wasn't halfway yet. Unbelievable, it was only Mile 29. This time, I left the station quickly. There was nothing wrong with the foods or volunteers. In fact, the race was well supported. I was just eager to make up time. When I reached Intake AS the second time, I was 1:45:00 ahead of cutoff which gave me a very good cushion. Downhill sections ahead would work to my advantage.

Moving along, I reached Edison Loop #3. This time, it was now M35 and warm. I had full confidence of finishing the race. Previous finishers told me the final 12 miles were difficult both mentally and physically. Thus, I took a few walking breaks even on the descent. I had to slow down as the uneven rocky road was difficult on my quads. I passed a few exhausted runners who voiced to downgrade to 50 miles. They gave me well wishes.

Unexpectedly, I was misdirected at the last aid station to head down Millpond which is the start/finish location. I crossed the finish line with cheers and medal from the race director. I didn't know how to react and walked away. After realizing I only ran 50 miles, I notified the RD. I may have lost my concentration or the aid station volunteers thought I was a 50 mile runner. My goal was to finish the 100k within 16 hrs. A 50 mile finish in 13 hrs. wasn't bad at all with plenty of gas left in my tank.  

A few runners told me that I should be upset. I simply replied I'm just happy; the world is not over yet. I'm still alive and had a chance to take a peek at paradise.  

Ben Gaetos, RWU ultra