New Blog

Hey everybody...not sure how many people still have this blog set up to do automatic email notifications, but just wanted to let you know that I created a new blog...

The goal is to continue to provide updates on my adventures and also hear from you about your adventures with the common goal of keeping ourselves motivated and inspired as well as motivating and inspiring others to get fit.

You CAN Commit to Fit
ucancommit2fit.blogspot.com

RACE ACROSS THE ROCK 2011 by Ruby Ryder

Jason and Yigit, a year ago committed to a dream,
With training and determination, they became a two-man team.
“To race across the rock” was the goal they had in mind,
Courage and encouragement were not hard to find.

Their wish to raise awareness had inspired them thru and thru,
The logo – “race for mental health” told what they planned to do.
The trail would be the railway bed, with scenery second to none,
But it might present some obstacles before each day was done.

From west at Port aux Basques to east at Signal Hill,
Lay eight hundred, eighty-three kilometres to kill.
On July 13th, with lots of support, and a crew to guide the way,
Each day would be a challenge to accomplish 60 k.

The updates on the e-mail and on the blog site, too,
Was something we all wondered if they’d have the time to do.
Days one thru four they were held back by rain and wind and cold,
But “spirits were not dampened” is what they bravely told.

The bridge across a river, after the rainstorm, was washed out,
With a stick in hand for balance, they each faced it without doubt.
They trudged through rapid water – 200 feet they say,
Intent to reach the other side, they made it all the way.

Milestone one was Corner Brook – it happened the 5th day,
We heard them when they shouted, “we’re one-quarter of the way”.
The campsite for the next two nights was an amazing sight to see,
That lake was certainly a place where we all wished that we could be.

The next day was a “tough one”, too; the gravel was not good,
After 30 k and “a little tired”, we certainly understood.
Then on thru the Gaff Topsails and Millertown as well,
The railway here once flourished – the evidence did tell.

The media were now caught up, and got the message out,
“Donate for the cause – ‘Mental Health’ is what it’s all about”.
Family and friends were all tuned in, so very proud of you,
You are quite an inspiration, because of what you chose to do.

Day 9 at noon, they had reached Grand Falls, with half the distance done,
With optimism still much alive, as if they’d just begun.
Then on to a spot called Jumper’s Brook, before the sun was set,
The support crew would be waiting, to make sure their needs were met.

On the 11th day, Yigit said “I’m out”, leaving us feeling sad,
The pain had started on day two, and had gotten very bad.
It sure did take much courage, with each stride along the way,
Congratulations and Good Luck, for you accomplished 500 k.

For the next couple of days, J ran alone, enthusiasm strong,
Rod will be joining up real soon – we hope it won’t be long.
Rod did meet up for day 13, eager to start the day,
The goal for J was milestone three – three-quarters of the way.

After 42 k into the day, that milestone he had met,
They continued on, up winding hills to see how far they’d get,
14 k from Clarenville and much to their delight,
The 13th day had ended and it was there they’d spend the night.

The pictures said it all – they sure were having fun,
While utilizing every stream as rescue from the sun.
Another day was near the end, we can’t believe it’s true,
“Only three days more, is all that’s left to do”.

An exclamation of joy – “we are oh so close”, on day 15 we read,
“Come by Chance is on the horizon”, was also what they said.
Tickle Harbour is where they rested that night – their inspiration grew,
Unconsciously, they have passed it on, to folks like me and you.

They reached Paradise on the 17th day – there were friends and family, too,
We just can’t explain the joy we felt when J first came into view.
“The last day is tomorrow” – in the morning they’ll be on their way,
We’ll all be at the finish line to share that special day.

On July 30th it was in the NEWS – “They will arrive at noon”,
On Signal Hill the excitement was great – we knew we would see them soon.
Old friends, new friends greeted them – “We can’t believe you’re here”,
After some favourite food and a good night’s rest, they were none the worse for wear.

J, your goal to “Race 4 Mental Health” now has been fulfilled,
We see you as a hero, for all the lessons you’ve instilled.
For all of us who listened, we found your words quite true,
They do apply to all of us, in everything we do.

Yigit and Rod – you are heroes, too – of that there is no doubt,
And loyal friends, too, is what you are – that’s what we soon found out.
CHEERS to the crew who did their part, to make a dream come true,
Jason – I could never say in just a few words, how proud I am of you!!

Momma R

Shane MacLeod

I just want to say a big thank you to Shane MacLeod (ScotiaMultisport.com). Shane has been my coach for a few years now and has always amazed me with his ability to develop very specific and individualized training plans for the events I take on. It doesn't matter if it is a 5k, Ironman, Western States 100 miler or Racing Across the Rock...I am always confident that I will achieve my goals with Shane as the plans he develops always get me prepared for whatever challenge.
While Shane works in Halifax where I live, we do all our correspondence via email and through his training website...it works great. Not sure if he has room to take on many more athletes but if you have a dream and you want to ensure you achieve it...contact Shane.
Thanks so much Shane
-J
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All Done!

Can't believe it...The Race Across the Rock is complete. Feel great. Planning to run back on Monday...who's in? :-)
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There it is! :-)

Not sure if you can make it out but there is Signal Hill in the distance.
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Nutrition In Action

I would like to say a BIG BIG thank you to Angela Dufour at Nutrition In Action and her intern Stephanie McWilliams. I would never have come close to finishing this if it wasn't for their very detailed nutrition plan. Also, I was in contact with Angela daily updating her on my intakes. Angela and Stephanie would record my intakes and then get back to me and let me know if I needed more protein, calories etc that day. Not only did their tireless dedication to my success help me finish but their level of detail was one of the main reasons my energy levels stayed high and consistent and I was able to complete the run injury free. There is no better sports nutritionist to be found. Thanks Nutrition In Action!
-J
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Taking Time to Smell The Fleurs! :-)

Its 5PM and I just passed Manuel's River. Only 10k left until the end of the day where I will finish a stones throw away from my dad's place. :-) Been taking my time today thinking about alll of this...the amazing scenery, all the donations, support from family and friends...even from people who I have never met...hopefully I will get the opportunity.
As I have said many times...there is nothing special about me...I just made a choice and commited to it. Yigit and I never wanted this to be about just us. This is really about several things...
- it started as a way for me to share an adventure with my dad
- talk about the benefits of exercise to our mental health. Who has ever regretted exercising or felt worse about themselves after they worked out? There is a sense of pride and self confidence that comes with finishing a workout
- get people talking about mental health and decrease the stigma.
- donate to some great causes and help some people less fortunate
- finally, get people thinking about what could be possible if they decide to do something and COMMIT to it. Of course you will need to find ways to hold yourself accountable and will most likely need help from others...I would never have come close to finishing this without help. Now don't get me wrong, there are certain things I will never be able to do...like win Canadian Idol...maybe So You Think You Can Dance haha. We are all capable of so much...DREAM, BELIEVE, ACHIEVE! I believe in you.
All the best everyone
-J
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Another Pic

Bell Island?
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Wow

I can't stop taking photos :-)
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10k West of Foxtrap

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Holyrood

Well folks we have reached Holyrood. Perfect running day. Looks like we will be running rest of the day along edge of ocean. :-) Life is very good!
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11k into Day 17

Nearing Avondale...then Holyrood. :-)
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The Final Days

Hey everybody...I can't believe the finish is so close now. :-) The plan is as follows...tomorrow we will leave Mahrs (4km west of Brigus Junction) and finish in Paradise, near start of the Tely 10. This is where we will start the last 14km on Saturday. There are several people who would like to join us as we near the finish so we thought it would be easier to plan if we left the last 14 or so km until Saturday with the plan to finish around noon. If anyone would like to join us please feel free to let me know or just hop on the trail somewhere between Paradise and Signal Hill. :-) I will let you know tomorrow what time we will leave Saturday AM and put a 'schedule' of when we will be where along that section of the trail up until the finish.
-J
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End of Another Day

Well folks its the end of another day. After a wet, chilly, foggy start we managed to get in a 57k day. It was actually a very 'comfortable' day of running...no significant climbs and about 60% of the terrain felt good on the feet. That's really what has taken the most punishment...my feet. The last 5-10k always seems to be the toughest. It doesn't seem to matter what the daily mileage is...the last stretch is the toughest. I guess that means it is all mental?! :-)
Here is a nice pic close to where we finished today.
-J
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Children at Play

Did one of you put this sign up for us? :-)
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Who is J

After 10 days of running, I feel in my bones how difficult it is to run 16 days more than 50 km everyday on a very tough surface.  Not only this, but keeping a positive attitude and mood while hurting and dealing with logistics etc. That's how J is different than other runners, it's not only running but being able to inspire people while suffering!

Only 2 days my friend...You are already a hero for many of us...

--Yigit

Day 15 & R.D.F.

Well we are 19k into Day 15...we just stopped close to Long Harbour. For those that aren't familiar with the expression R.D.F. it stands for rain, drizzle and fog. Well that's what we experienced this morning with some cool temps....ran with gloves most of morning. To add a another little challenge our big water jug leaked on the drive out to the starting point and soaked our running bags and sneakers. Could always be worse right? Haha One of those black, furry, 4 legged creatures could be chasing us. :-)
I just kept reminding myself what Rocky said in last movie (clip on Inspiration page)...'Whatever life gives you...keep moving forward...KEEP MOVING FORWARD!'
-J
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Day 15 - Complete

Hey everybody another 48.5km complete. It was a great day to run...nice and cool. Here is a picture near Tickle Harbour where we finished today. Oh so close now. :-)
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Come By Chance

Come By Chance is on the hoizon. Avalon Peninsula...here we come. :-)
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Day 14 - Complete

Well another day has come to an end. Today Rod and I ran 54km through some beautiful country with a lot of winding uphills. There was one section of the old track on Day 13 that we figure winded about 20k uphill...we kept laughing because every time we got to another turn we thought we had reached the top but it just winded further uphill. :-)
Today was about 4 day for me in the sun. That has been tough since when it really heats up in the afternoons you have to keep finding rivers to cool off in or you will cook. At least this afternoon it was a little cloudy. The forecast for tomorrow is cool and rain :-) sorry...Rod and I may be the only NL'ers who are excited about that but it will make tomorrow easier on us.
3 more days folks :-)
-J
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Classic Truck

Came across this vintage ride in the middle of nowhere and Rod couldn't resist taking it for a ride. :-)
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15k from Goobies

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Cool Down Spot

A great place to get some relief from the heat.
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Nice

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Views

I have been amazed at how many scenic views there are in this beautiful province. If we took pictures of every view we would never finish.
Gotta say...part of me going to be sad when this is all over.
-J
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Breakin' It Down on the TCT

Rod and I decided to take a short break to practice our dance moves...rod is performing the Zamboni while I am performing the all time favorite...sprinkler. The lines are now open...text R or J for your fav move haha
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7k from Clarenville

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Day 14

6K into Day 14...pictures really don't do it justice
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Day 13 - Complete

Another day is over. We passed milestone 3 (75% of the way) about 42km into today and went on to do 61km. We are about 14km west of Clarenville and should be in Goobies by tomorrow night. Getting so close now :-)
I know I have mentioned this before but I can't say enough how much I enjoy reading your comments throughout the day...thanks for taking time.
-J
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Golf Anyone?!

45k into today's run we ran through the golf course in Terra Nova. Rod couldn't resist going for a birdie on hole 4. Haha
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Rough Life LOL

Its just past 10am and we have 27k in the books. Just havin' a little r'n'r while we wait to meet the support crew.
Hope your all having a great day and thanks again for all the support
-J
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Rod's First Train Trestle

Havin' a blast with Rod. Just coming into Terra Nova Village
-J
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Doesn't Get Any Better

What views...it truely is amazing. We started at 5:30 this morning as we are racing the sun....hope to get as far as we can before it heats up.
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Day 12 - Start

5k into Day 12...Rod and I haven't sdhut up talking...time is flying by haha
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Day 12 - Complete

By this time tomorrow I will be 75% of the way. It was a nice cool day so great running. Tomorrow is supposed to be real hot so it should be interesting.
My buddy Rod is joining me tomorrow so it will certainly help break up the time chatting and laughing at old stories.
So close to Clarenville now. :-)
-J
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Did you know...

'1 in 5 are effected by mental illness directly and that those that aren't will know someone that is?'
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The Support Crew

The Race Across the Rock support crew...I am not sure what to say as words could not express my gratitude for everything they are doing. From...
- preparing food
- setting up tents
- mixing gatorade
- planning meet points
- packing and unpacking the truck over and over
- long drives through insane terrain driving 6 km/hr to provide support through the Gaff Topsail Mountains
- getting groceries
- doing our laundry
- long waits for us to arrive at meet points
...I could go on and on.
I couldn't not think of a better group of people to have as our support crew. Yigit and I have both remarked numerous times how amazing they are. Not only that, they never complain and are always in the best of spirits and are always enjoying themselves. Their attitudes have made this trip an even more enjoyable experience. A big thanks to The Crew.
-J
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Day 11 - Complete

Well I passed through Gander today and finished in a town called Benton. Boy oh Boy she got warm today. I almost melted in last 12k...especially since I couldn't find a lake to jump in to cool off.
The plan is to get to Alexander Bay tomorrow.
Thanks Yigit for your kind words and support...I felt it. And as you know it is the support that pushes me forward.
-J
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Donations - Thanks

I just want to say a special thank you to my buddy Rod. We have been close friends since elementary school and he is planning on joining me on Monday to run perhaps the rest of the way.
Rod made a very generous donation of $1000 to the Stella Burry foundation. Every donation whether it is $1 or $1000 is wonderful and appreciated as it is for a great cause. Thank you Rod and thanks to everyone else who has made a donation. I can't thank you enough.
-J
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Ryder's Wildlife Rescue :-)

So I am running along on Day 10 and I see this seagull on the trail walking. The closer I get he still continues to walk and does not fly away. As I get closer I realize there is a string that it is towing. I am able to stop it and realize it has a fishing hook stuck where his wing meets its body...its armpit...guess that would be its wingpit? I have to admit, I am not a fan of seagulls but I couldn't leave it like that. So I attempt to pry the hook loose and after several attempts and several snaps on the fingers from its beak I managed to get the hook out. I made a little bed in the tall grass for my new little buddy to rest and be hidden...fed it a fig Newton and was on my way.
Stay tuned for the next episode of Ryder's Wildlife Rescue...actually scratch that as I lost about 20 minutes of running time. LOL
-J
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I am out

I just arrived home.  My right leg couldn't take it anymore.  It was the toughest challenge that I have faced so far.  Yes, I am disappointed and sad.  I had only 380K to finish it.  Anyway, At least I tried.

I don't know how to find words to thank all of you for your supporting comments.  They kept us going. And I am sure they will keep J going.

J will finish it I have no doubt.  Keep moving my friend I am with you every minute...

Yigit

Day 11

Well I am waking up in Gander and I am sad to say I will be starting today alone. Yigit's knee started bothering him on Day 2 and got worse as each day past. He pushed through a week of extreme pain to try to get this done but decided yesterday not to continue. Yigit ran 500km in 10 days...quite an accomplishment my friend!
-J
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Day 9 Complete - 50k

Hey everybody. We are just east of Grand Falls/Bishops Falls in a place called Jumpers Brook. By the end of today we will be close to Gander.
Cloudy and a little cooler so should be a good running day. Chat soon. Keep the positive energy flowin! :-)
-J
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To Those It May Concern...

We are in Grand Falls...that would HALF WAY! Can I get a Woot Woot? Haha
Keep the cards and letters (emails,comments) coming folks...amazing how much they pick up the spirit! :-)
-J
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Almost to Grand Falls

Hot out now. We are taking a break and cooling off :-)
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Day 8 Complete - 50k

The past 2 days have been really tough. Started late today...12PM...ran for 8 hours essentially straight through with just 20min break. Tomorrow by noon we will be halfway. Off for now as I will lose service soon.
-J

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Day 8

Hello everybody. Cell phone coverage has been off and on so tough to do updates.
Yesterday and today will be the toughest section logistically. We finished yesterday 2 hours mainly via rough dirt road. So we had to drive 2 hours to get back to where we finished to pick up from there. Also, we had some minor issues with vehicle...had to drive to Buchans to get it looked at. A big thank you to Todd at Todd's Auto Repair in Buchans. He immediately stopped what he was working on, took off the wheel etc...fixed the problem and had us on our way.
So, we won't get started until 12 today which means finishing later than normal. Also, won't be doing too many updates as we have to keep moving today. Want to get 55km in by 8pm.
Again...thanks sooooooo much for the support.
-J
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Day 7 Complete - 55k

It was pretty full day...interview with CBC, ran through Gaff Topsail Mountains, saw several moose and ending with 2 hours of driving mainly on rough dirt road. Means 2 hours of driving tomorrow to get back to our starting point for Day 8. This will be the toughest section for several reasons.
Today was tough!
Thanks to my old Maskwa Master paddling friends (Paul and Jeff) for taking the time to comment. Thanks to everybody...I think about all of you and your support when I run.
-J
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22k into Day 7

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CBC

Just finished our interview with CBC. Will air on CBC NL tonight. Available on www.cbc.CA/NL after 7PM
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Day 7

Just getting Day 7 started. We are leaving the town of Howley and heading into the Gaff Topsail mountains and try toi get as close as we can to Millertown Junction...my understanding it was an old railroad community.
I can't say enough how much we appreciate all the comments...really helps folks.
Ege, I passed along your comments to your dad. Thanks.
To all Yigit's family and friends...I pass along on your comments so keep them coming.
Gotta run...when I walk the mosquitoes attack. Little b#@*#?%s :-)
-J
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Day 6 Complete - 48k

Hey everybody. Sorry for lack of correspondence today. It was a tough day. 30km on very loose gravel...was like running in quicksand and required a lot more effort. Tomorrow we run through the Gaff Topsail Mountains. :-)
-J
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What are the chances?

Yigit and I were running along the Trans Canada Highway today (that part of th trail was absorbed by highway expansion) and we hear a horn blow. A car pulls over and out pops Barb Wiseman...a friend and colleague of mine. What timing as in another few km we were back on the trail and deep in the woods. Was a great boost for the spirit...thanks Barb!
-J
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New Campsites

Check out our new and improved campsite. It is amazing...right on the lake. Here 2 nights.
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Picture Says It All!

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TCH

About to get on Trans Canada Highway to Deer Lake...be on road for about next 40k. Lovin life! :-)
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Lauren's Picture

The previous picture was Aiden's...here is Lauren's. I am very impressed kids! Thanks again Lauren and Aiden.
-J
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Aiden and Lauren's Picture

Check this picture out! :-) Amy Jewers' kids drew Yigit and my picture and sent it to us. Thank you so much Lauren and Aiden. We just finished 27k and are in Corner Brook at Subway. We leave from here after about an hour of rest. We will run about another 30km today. Aiden and Lauren I will run the next 30km for you both...how about 15km each? :-)
Thanks again...we wouldn't be able to do this without you.
-J
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Milestone 1 - Corner Brook :-)

Well my friends we just arrived in Corner Brook. We are 25% of the way there. Gotta say...pretty cool feeling.
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Day 5 - 6k

Well look at what is trying to finally make an appearance...is that the sun? :-)
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Thank You!

Just getting ready to go to bed and started thinking about how nice it feels that we have so many friends, family...supporters out there cheering us on. When you post comments I get them on my BlackBerry as I am running...I can't put into words how much that mental boost helps. Thanks to you all for caring enough to take the time to write.
-J
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Day 4 Complete - 51km

We hoped to be in Steady Brook by now...but we made it to the Logger's Road 17 km before the Corner Brook area. For those playing the home game LOL that puts us 34km behind schedule. As I mentioned on earlier posts it is mainly to do with weather conditions and camping troubles. That said the plan was built around 14 days with 16 in mind so we are still good. Also, sticking to around 50km/day is a little easier on the body this early on. If we had pushed today to get a 70km day in, we very likely would not be able to continue.
A big thanks to Roger and Steve who we met in Gallants. They helped us with directions for the crew to find the logging road. Thanks fellas...it was a pleasure chatting with you.

Had a great chat with my new friend Bernie. It's too bad we had not met before...he graciously offered for us to stay at his cabin right on this beautiful lake. Thanks for taking the time to stop and say hello Bernie and for your offer. As I said...the next time we run across NL we will take you up on the offer. haha

Here are some shots of the scenery.

Finally...when got to the finish Cindy and her daughter Morgan (I hope I remembered your name correctly...send a comment and I will update it if I got it wrong) were there to great us. They bumped into the crew and stopped to say hello and get some pics with us. Felt like celebrities! haha Morgan challenged me to a race to the stop sign and beat me :-) Also, I forgot to get a pic of us by the car...send me the pic you took nltrailrun@gmail.com and I will post it.
Another wonderful day!
-J

Update

We are about 3k from meeting the crew. all is well.
Isikm...thanks so much for your inspiring comments yesterday. And thanks for weather update. :-) its windy at times but no rain...can always be worse right? Right? Haha pics soon.
J
Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.
Envoyé sans fil par mon terminal mobile BlackBerry sur le réseau de Bell.

Day - 4

Hoping to get 20k from Corner Brook today. Conditions have slowed us down but we are going to press on and just try to get through another day. Sounds like will be sunny on Sunday...so there is hope.
J
Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.
Envoyé sans fil par mon terminal mobile BlackBerry sur le réseau de Bell.

Day 3 Summary

It is 6pm on Day 3...we are staying at some cabins in Black Duck. Why aren't we in our tents? Well mainly because it got so windy that they blew down (winds gusts up to 90km/h). Our 'cook tent' which was the only place we could go to get warm and eat blew apart and the poles are all bent. On top of that it rained and was cold enough that I had to wear gloves most of the day while running.
At this stage we are 29km behind schedule...we were hoping to be in Gallants by now but the cold weather has made it difficult to get started on time in the AM. I lie in my tent in the mornings warm in my sleeping bag but it is too cold to get out of bed. I lie in bed eating my Vector cereal with my hands...by the time we get up...get to the cook tent and get warm enough to start to change then drive 20-50km to where we finished the day before it is about 7:30. So we are losing about 2 hours of running time each day.
I was pushing the pace today to get the day done because I was cold and I wanted to get the day over...my legs are achy tonight...I just hope I haven't dug myself into a hole so that my legs can't recover.
We will have to run 70km to get to Corner Brook by end of Day 4. This is not really realistic. We will have to let the legs dictate how far we go tomorrow.
All the best everyone
-J

Day 2 River Crossing Pics

Here are the pics from our river crossing on Day 2...what a blast!