This is a picture of Patricia Carroll crossing the finish line for the Umstead 100 Mile Endurance Run.  You may have seen my post regarding Pat last week; well Pat is back at CFO this week and I asked her to tell me how she thought CrossFit had helped her prepare for and run this 100 miler.  These are Patricia’s thoughts . . .

“In late January, I attended my first Crossfit session.  My goal with Crossfit was to increase my strength to improve my performance in ultradistance running.  Umstead was the first “test.”  I completed 100 miles in 28 hours, 2 minutes. 

I felt strong during the entire run.  The squats certainly helped with downhill running on the course.  I had no quad discomfort at all either during or after the run.  The various lifts and explosive drills helped in overall strength and conditioning.  I never felt fatigued, even during the late evening/early morning hours.  This lack of fatigue I attribute to the Crossfit workouts.  The workouts have helped me since they target the entire body. 

I consider myself just an ordinary person who enjoys ultradistance running.  Crossfit is making me stronger.”

Thanks Pat.  I don’t like to dwell on age, but it’s worth mentioning that Patricia is in the over 50 age group and still going strong.  It’s never too late to take up any type of fitness and begs the question:  Where will your fitness be at 50?  I plan to be doing CrossFit WODs and still setting new PRs.  Post your comments here.

- Cheryl