This is the quandry that 23-year old Fiona Dubuss has faced in each of her past Patch Sprints. A well-conditioned athlete and recent Adirondack 46er, Dubuss knows she can put in a solid, potentially division-contending time, but does she want to? Work and other conflicts, as well as training motivation will ultimately decide that question. Until then, the Finance Director for Pok-O-MacCready Camps is content to eagerly look forward to the fun and challenge of the May 26 event.
The best part is definitely the influx of people. Knowing that camp's population will grow from 8 people I see every day to about 80 that I never do gets me through those dark winter months...I won't say unscathed, but almost.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF THE PATCH SPRINT?
The biggest challenge for me is when I'm practically crawling up Pok-O-Mooshine and can hear all the happy people who are already at the top. Some might find it motivating, but I really find it hard not to hate them all temporarily. That last half mile is killer. Other than that, getting enough sleep the night before can be tough, but it makes for a much more pleasant 12 mile run/hike when you save all your partying for post-race.
WHAT IS YOUR TRAINING REGIMEN FOR THIS EVENT?
Well, my original goal for the '07 race was to enter to Clydesdale division, but I'm having a hard time breaking 195. So I'll fall back on last year's training. Starting in spring: Hiking all the mountains a LOT with Dana. Running when motivation is high and the weather is good. Already started: Improving hand-eye coordination by playing Nintendo. Carbo loading. Mentally preparing. Reading Patch Sprint website.
WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE 2007 RACE?
My only goals are to beat my time from last year and to have fun doing it. I think they're both very attainable (which is how I like my goals to be).
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO HAS NEVERDONE THE PATCH SPRINT?
Do it with someone who a) has done it before and b) has the same goals as you. If you are going to take it really seriously, run with someone who has the same attitude. If you just want to have fun and get some exercise, go with a friend who will show you the way and who you can laugh at when they fall in the swamp. Regardless of your aims, have a good time. I love the Patch Sprint. (Remind me of that the night before when I try to back out.)
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