As I was passing, I took this shot of the 2012 San Juan Solstice 50 mile race. At the time, the thought of entering the race never entered my mind.

In late December 2013, several friends (who knew of my hiking adventures) somehow convinced me to enter the 2014 race. I've been training in various forms ever since, determined not to fail. I'm more comfortable with middle distance runs and long day hikes, but I'm ready for a challenge!

Entrants from all over the US and beyond travel to Lake City to run the event each year. The race must be run in under 16 hours, but the record is under 8 hours. Much of each entry fee helps to boost the funds of the Hinsdale County volunteer EMTs, a well-trained (but unpaid) group of people who look after residents and visitors alike.

I've been fortunate enough to have Alpine Animal Art cover some of my expenses. A race of this type requires very specific types of kit, but one item I can't buy is time on the trail. I've hiked most of the route at various points, but this race will be a very different experience.

You can find a good route map on the SJS50 website, but you can view scenery from various parts here. I'll expand the selection as I train on the sections over the next few months.

Over the next few months I'll draw on all of my training to get into the best shape of my life. I hope that I can get to that finish line!

Edit: To read part one, click here. To read part two, click here. Part three is here.

To learn about my ebook, How To Run Your First Ultra-Marathon, click here.