The Dean of Ultras

Let me get this out of the way up front: I became a Dean Karnazes groupie this past weekend. OK, I’ve said it. I feel better.

You see, I live in Boulder, where ultrarunners are a dime a dozen, including a strong flock of true old school “deans,” themselves. They include 100, 200 mile record-holders … all of whom have never sought the spotlight of sport and achievement. Thus, when Dean Karnazes began his amazing “business” of ultra marketing, there seemed to be a rather pompous, somewhat arrogant, resentment of this guy who was seemingly doing nothing special in their world of ultras.

However, on January 17, I participated in the inaugural “Dean Karnazes Rock & Roll Ultra Marathon,” a race of 50K in Phoenix. While 35,000 people did the half and full marathons, 150 of us did the 31 mile version. I had done ultras - including the Leadville 100 Mile Trail Run - before turning back to triathlon in 2005; and, now was simply seeking a new challenge as I entered 2010. What I discovered, though, is what I predict to be a surge of interest in the world of ultrarunning … thanks to one individual, Dean Karnazes.

Of the 150 ultra folks, at least 80-100 were doing their first run beyond a marathon; and, judging by their clamoring for pictures and autographs with Karnazes at the start, most were inspired by simply being in the presence of the “Dean of Ultras.”

Sure, Karnazes - the self-proclaimed, advertised, and uber-marketed “Ultramarathon Man” - is making a strong living from his amazing feats (50 marathons in 50 days in 50 states, e.g.), his book, DVD, and sponsors (see www.ultramarathonman.com); but, what makes the guy so admirable is his ability to inspire others to do things they would not otherwise venture to pursue. He is personable, approachable, and super positive and encouraging to anyone who speaks with him.

I ran next to him for several miles during the run on Sunday, and throughout the miles, people continuously came up along his side, peppering him with praise and questions; and Dean - in every instance - was cordial, helpful, and encouraging. He obviously loves what he does, and that love is being spread with every step he does. Just 2 days after the ultra - Dean ran another marathon … on a treadmill in a San Francisco radio station (KFOG) studio, as a fundraiser for Haiti.

OK, lest I come across like a soon-to-be-stalker, I will end what may sound like an “Ode to Dean.” But, mark my words - just like “50 is the new 40,” we will now be seeing shirts and races proclaiming “50 is the new 26.2″ - hey, maybe I should market that before Dean does!

Oh, footnote to all of this, and my last month of running: our Annual Boulder Beer Mile was held on New Year’s Eve Day; and, once again, yours truly participated ... but not as strongly as last year. Cold temps, cold beer, and less pre-race practice & training led to a mile of just 9:40 something, compared to my 8:20 something the year prior (1 mile, 4 beers). Of course, doing this race just 18 days before my ultra was great preparation!

And, as for the 50K, I ran 4:15 for the 31 miles. My goal was 4:06, and I was well on my way until mile 27-28; which, apparently, is the wall associated with a 50K. Regardless, it was a good day, great event; and, particularly cool to see the impact this one person can - and will - have on so many people and, potentially, a new sport.

Now, back to the pool, bike, and triathlon!

The Value of Commitment

Joe Namath, the great NY Jets QB, said "If you aren't going to go all the way, why go at all?" I think this speaks a bit - maybe a lot - to me. It's all about commitment; and, tied in with that, setting goals. As we near a New Year (can you believe 2010???), many of us - particularly, athletes - will be setting goals (others, resolutions). This month is a great time to start considering these goals.

But, back to commitment. When I ran for Boulder City Council this year, I jumped in with both feet, both arms, and my entire body and soul. Unequivocally, no candidate worked harder than me; although, some may say that was because I had the most to learn! Regardless, I was committed!

A week ago, it was minus 7 degrees here in Boulder. Wednesdays have become one of my 2 long runs each week, and my goal was to run roughly 16-18 miles on this day in order to see whether I should attempt a 50K run in January. Well, I did it! Throughout the run - on hardpacked snow and in absolutely frigid temps - I kept thinking about making that commitment. It is what kept me going, and the satisfaction of the result was enormous. The picture here shows me at the end of the 2:21 run. Funny - when it's that cold, the first part of the run is a cool down, and the end is a warm up :).

The value of setting goals cannot be overstated. Mine? Well, I have now registered for the January 17 Ultra 50K run in Arizona. My training since that cold run - and my new commitment - has changed significantly, with a focus - a commitment - toward success that day. That has required more running mileage, less cycling, much better nutrition. My runs have had much more meaning, been run much stronger, and have left me feeling much happier each and every day.

It is no secret that triathletes are typically Type A (Type A+++?) folks. Research says that such individuals are typically "uptight, preoccupied with success, overly competitive, and obsessed with time such that they tend to feel a sense of urgency even when there is no such urgency." Sound familiar? The time is now for setting goals for the coming year - whether near term, or for the entire year. It will be motivating, allow clarity of purpose with workouts, and allow a sense of achievement ... which all serves to lessen the "angst" created by the nuances of our Type A traits. And, know what? That's a good thing.

So, here's to a great New Year ... complete with goals, commitment, and many, many successes for all.

Post "Race" Race

Well, like finishing 4th when there are 3 Kona (Hawaii Ironman) slots up for grabs, I finished 6th with 5 seats open for Boulder City Council. This was my first foray into the world of politics, and I finished less than 1% out of the money - just 600 votes short out of over 74,000! Not bad for a newbie.

The 6-month long journey/adventure was an incredible learning experience. I am now fully engaged in so many varied issues that I absolutely consider the experience a great success. Without a doubt, I plan on staying quite involved in Boulder matters, and I have already been asked to be on the Boulder Convention & Visitors Bureau Advisory Board.

But, as far as racing goes, the campaign definitely made it as challenging as any time in my 29 years of being competitive. There were functions virtually everyday; and, mentally, you just have to be “on” at all times. I was scheduled to race Ironman Arizona last weekend. While my wattage on my bike, speed on the track, and 100 times in the pool were all equal to or better than last year’s IMAZ, the long stuff was virtually impossible to get in. Instead of 3-4 six hour rides, and doing 20+ 800’s on the track each Sunday, I got in just one 5+ hour ride, and Sundays meant 15 X 800. So, I was not nearly as confident with my training.

Election Day was November 3. At 5 AM on November 4, Jodee and I took off on a much needed getaway to Mexico. I was looking forward to letting my mind clear a bit, and get in some good training. And, lo & behold, what appears but the “Puerto Vallarta Marathon.” Called a marathon, it’s actually a half, and I learned about it right after a 3 hour mountain bike ride … happening 2 days later.

Naturally, I do it. Over 1,300 people and $250,000 pesos prize money. Kenyan runners went 1-10; and, my 1:33:01 landed me 4th in the 50+ group … but, like my election campaign, just short … prize money for 50+ went 3 deep! About 2/3 through the race (there were no mile or kilometer markers - none!), I felt a small tear or pull in my upper left quad. Yep - couldn’t run for a few days after; and, between the injury, my sub-standard training, and my mind racing all over the place, I decided to postpone IMAZ to next year (it was a Community Fund spot).

So, a less than stellar triathlon season. Several solid running races (halfs and full marathons). And a political experience well worth the time and energy. Next up: a few winter duathlons, a marathon in January somewhere (probably Phoenix or Miami); hopefully, Team Timex Camp in February; and many, many meetings and functions of involvement in the great Boulder community.

It's All Relative

When I was 14 years old, living in Worcester, MA., I can remember taking a bus to Boston for one of the huge "peace moratoriums" aimed at protesting the war in Vietnam. I can remember being on the bus with my neighbor, Abbie Hoffman, and watching him run off the bus to the Boston Common to be one of the keynote speakers at the rally. Abbie was one of the big leaders of the "yippees," soon becoming one of the famous (infamous) "Chicago 7," and, ultimately, becoming a fugitive from the law.

I remember being so moved by the speeches, the crowd of over 100,000 strong, and the message of "peace now." I was so into it that i even signed up for that peace-loving group - soon to become one of the most controversial and groups - Students for a Democratic Society (SDS).

Throughout my college years and into the 80's, I remained a proud "Kennedy Democrat." When my father was dying from pancreatic cancer, I had the privilege to be on a flight from Salt Lake City with Senator Ted Kennedy sitting right behind me. While many passengers attempted to see and meet him, I quietly wrote a personal note to him about my Dad, telling the Senator how our family had always been true and faithful supporters. Less than a week later, my father received a personal letter from Senator Kennedy, making it sound as if we had literally flown together and were strong acquaintances, wishing my father his personal best wishes. I will never forget the call I got from my Dad that day. He died not long after.

Throughout the 80's and 90's, as I helped raise my 2 sons, our family carried on the stewardship of caring about others. We served Meals on Wheels to those in need on all major holidays, giving the regular volunteers those days off. My wife and I were the first chairs of our synagogue's new Social Action Committee. We actively worked in the area of homelessness, ands strongly supported and mentored four girls who lived in Boys Town, a residence for kids with serious problems, such as alcoholism at age 14.

My kids have carried on those values, those critically important compass points, of caring about others - particularly, those in need. One spent 2+ years in the Peace Corps in Africa, and another year working with kids and the environment in Patagonia Chile. The other has done such things as building bikes in Austin, riding them to a small village in Mexico, and donating them to people there, taking a bus home.

While my business and athletic career and focus put a bit of a crimp in the time I have devoted to social justice in recent years, my heart, soul, and values have not changed at all ... not at all.

The one thing that has changed, though, is I now live in Boulder, Colorado. I am no longer considered liberal. I recently ran for Boulder City Council, and was contrasted to the other more "progressive" candidates. Virtually all of the characterization was related to land use issues and, to a lesser extent, environmental matters. None of the labeling had anything to do with social justice.

Global warming, Boulder's fantastic Climate Action Program efforts, and the city's excellent track record on alternative transportation are all important high level priorities. But, please, let Boulder - let us - never lose sight of people first - people in need, our quiet and often not seen, underrepresented, those who may not be in a position to care for themselves without some kindness and assistance.

I still consider myself a true "Kennedy Democrat." In Boulder, however, I am labeled a "moderate centrist." Interesting. Too bad.

Fun on the Campaign Trail

Shooting Star

The "Shoot Out Boulder" is a 24 hour filmmaking festival; whereby, 41 teams of filmmakers create a 7-minute film within 24 hours, after being given several "items" that must appear in their film. Held during the weekend of September 25-27, I decided to be creative, get my name, campaign, and face on film ... and I became a "shooting star."

My objective was to to get in as many films as possible during the 24 hours beginning at 6 PM Friday evening, through 6 PM Saturday. You see, the "shooting star" is a contest within the contest, and it was myself vs. up-and-coming "real" actress, Claudia Amacher of Denver.

The 2 of us frantically gave out our cell phone number and info to as many film producers as possible, while they were all signing up for the contest Friday afternoon - it was a blast!

My first call came at 9:30 that evening, and I secured a role walking by the star of the film on a street corner. We did about 5 or 6 takes, and I was done. My next schedule part was to be a "dead guy" just laying on the ground during a sequence of a fight of zombies (seriously); but, they were running late, and did not show up, as scheduled. I went home.

Just as got back to my driveway (on my scooter), I got another call - it was midnight. I returned quickly to the Pearl Street Mall to play someone dining outside the Cheesecake Factory with my date. We were seated behind the stars of the film. When that concluded at 2 AM, my cell phone rang, and I was off to the Boulder Creek, where I was part of a raucous group of CU students who proceeded to push an innocent bystander in the frigid waters of the Boulder Creek - it was crazy!

I got home around 3:15 AM, got 3 hours sleep, and had the biggest role of the weekend just after sunrise. I walked by someone on the street who had just dropped their keys ... picked them up, and said: "nice keychain."

All told - I was in 5 films and spoke 2 words. It was a blast!

On Sunday, the top 10 films were screened to a packed house at the Boulder Theater; and, lo and behold, I was in the award winning film! I even made the credits; although, it was spelled Barry Sift. The MC of the event gave a great shout out to this prospective City Council person; but, alas, Claudia made it in 6 films, and was crowned the "shooting star." No worries, though - I'm already planning my strategy for next year - my goal??? 3 words!

For more info and to see my cameo in the "making of the shoot out" - http://www.theshootoutboulder.com/watch-boulder-shootout-filmmaking-festival.htm

Sprouting in Boulder

Also, another fun day on the campaign trail began this morning at Sprouts - the newest competitor in the healthy food store marketplace here in Boulder. The store's grand opening was today - October 9 - and I was there at 6:45, introducing myself to the 200 or so people lined up for the free breakfast and shopping bags being given out free.

Truly, one of the great things about running for office is to meet so many wonderful people, and this was certainly the case at Sprouts. Plus, pretty cool store! Much like Sunflower - good stuff at good prices - but, in a great location for an area not readily served by the other players. They should do well.

My campaign for City Council has the economy as the #1 priority we should be focusing on as a City. The Shoot Out and Sprouts are 2 great examples of the vibrancy our City needs more of ... positive, fun, healthy businesses that reflect the values of our community. I was thrilled to take part in both!

And, of course, please visit http://www.siffforcouncil.com/. Cheers, Barry.

Run for City Council - A Different Kind of Race

Having run well over 50 marathons, several ultramarathons, 8 Ironman triathlons, and many multi-day adventure and expedition races, I am now embarking upon a totally different type of race - I am "running" for a seat on Boulder City Council. And, after being in this "race" now for nearly 6 months, it's amazing the similarities between an athletic race and a political race.





GOALS - It's all about setting a goal, and working toward it: finishing a marathon and feeling like a winner ... finishing a political campaign and being a winner.





PLAN - When you are working toward a marathon - maybe 3-6 months away - you make a plan, and stick to it. Running a political campaign is similar - establish a plan - complete with dates and actionable items - and stick to it.





BUILD - When I ran my first marathon (1981), I was able to run 5 miles at once. Over a period of 3 months, that amount gradually built, such that I was able to run the necessary 26.2 miles on race day. Boulder City Council meetings are known for their duration -not unusual to run for 6-7 hours (to midnight or 1 AM). I attended my first Council meeting in April ... and lasted 2.5 hours. Two weeks later, I made it through 4 hours; and, with strong determination, sometime in June, i did it - an entire City Council meeting! I am now "comfortable" with a 6-7 hour meeting. However, warning: when I gain a seat on Council, I will do all I can to expedite the meetings through stronger leadership and better business techniques.





TEAM - As a runner (or other athlete), one may have a coach, massage therapist, PT person, training partners, and other persons who support you toward your mission/goal. In a political campaign, it is equally important to surround yourself with a team who will support you - a campaign manager, issues advisers, writers, treasurer, volunteers and others.





RACE PRACTICE - When getting ready to race your first major goal event, you will race a few shorter events leading up to it. Politically, you will find yourself in front of large groups and voters in meetings, forum, and public debates. It's a good idea to do a few "practice races" leading up to the big ones - getting in front of small, "friendly" groups, and getting comfortable with that arena and Q & A sessions.





CONSISTENCY - I learned a great deal last year, after 28 years of racing, of the importance and value of consistency. I literally had the same workouts (building, of course) on the same days, in the same order, for several months, leading up to my Ironman. It worked. Politically, I have found value going to every City Council meeting, answering emails related to the campaign every day (answer each within 24 hours ideally), and spending time each and every day (for me, 8-12 hours right now) on the campaign.





BALANCE - Finally, both type of races can put havoc into your "normal" lifestyle and, particularly, relationships and emotions. One must never lose focus on the truly important things in life ... beginning with loved ones. Balance must be achieved. We know triathletes are notoriously Type A achievement-at-all-cost individuals. Try taking a triathlete and placing he or she in the political world! Answer - Type A times a big multiplier. Remember - balance.





Well, that's it for now - my first blog, and my first look at this new endurance event I am undertaking. If all goes well, we should be celebrating the finish line on November 3.