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The Ultras – Myth & Magic

November 22, 2017 by John Lockhart

They’re called Ultras because that’s what they are—ultra miles up to100 cross-country races that demand the runner’s ultimate mental and physical commitment. Andy Kleinke is committed—and how! He’s run “about a dozen ultras over the years,” two of the 100-milers, and his eyes set on a third in June 2018. Andy is currently serving in his second term as President of Front Runners & Walkers San Diego.

Andy’s most recent ultra is the Javelina Jundred 100 in Arizona, on October 27, with a cutoff time of 30 hours; Andy finished in 22:29 and has the silver belt buckle to prove it, for those who in less than 24 hours. About an hour out of Phoenix the course runs through desert and semi-desert over rolling terrain. Ultra courses include checkpoints for all runners.

While training for the Arizona race, Andy credits runs with club members over varied distances, and extra long runs, with getting him to the Finish. Right now, he’s looking forward to the California International Marathon in Sacramento on December 3.

In September 2015, Andy completed the Pine to Palm 100-mile run that traverses the Siskihyou Mountains Range in Southern Oregon. The course of track trails, dirt roads, a 20,000ft. climb, and an equal of loss, plus three other climbs of 7,000ft and less than four pavement miles, all to be completed in 34 hours! Andy’s time: 29:47.

Andy is locked on the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run, the world’s oldest 100-mile race. It starts at Squaw Valley Ski Resort, site of the 1960 Winter Olympics and finishes 100.2 miles west in Auburn, where Andy grew up, “so it’s part of the culture and always in my vision.”

This year marks the third year Andy has entered the Western States lottery—the only door to the race. Good Karma, Andy!… To be continued on the FR&W Blog

Filed Under: News

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