Bootlegger 100: Tough 1st attempt

April 5th, 2025. My 2nd attempt st my 1st 100 miler, Bootlegger 100. After Helene cancelled my first 100, I had put the idea on the back burner, until, a spot was offered for the Bootlegger race. I decided with a team sponsored aid station, and my own small crew, I’d be fine to give this a shot.
This is the third year, I believe, of the Bootlegger, and with it’s growing reputation, the course had to change to accommodate more runners. The race is held at Indian Springs SP, Georgia and is a 20 mile looped course. Each loop had about 1500ft of gain on rolling hills keeping it moderately flat and four aid stations to help the runners along.


ABOUT MY RACE: It was cool to start a race with one of the all time greats, Jeff Browning, and of course he won by a lot. I also, had a fairly good day, however spoiler alert, I did not finish.
I had Team Summit at AS 2, and Teresa was at AS 3 & 4, which was the same spot. AS 1 was the start/finish line, which was the one weird thing.
My first lap I paced myself only jogging for max 7 minutes at a time, and walking for 3. That was a great pace and method that allowed my to fuel and hydrate effectively as well. Temperatures started nice, but by the second lap it was already hot.
Ice towels, popsicles, and so much fluid. All of it was needed in the heat and humidity. I should have used my ice bandana, but hindsight. My 2nd lap was completed still feeling good. Shortly into my third, I started having hydration/fueling concerns. After a short stop at the Summit AS, chatting with Jonathan and the crew, I rallied and pressed on to see Teresa.
At this time I was hiking, waiting for the soccer game to start, so I could listen to that to keep me busy. When I reached Teresa, I was so tired, we decided a nap was worth a try. It helped! I tried to push through but only made it around the loop back to AS4. I DNF’d there at 58 miles.
I learned a lot, and I am grateful for all of the effort that went in to this event. I’ll be back next year, and the course will be slightly different again. See you there?

#ultrarunning #100miler #elvateyourrun