MR340

[timinmo]

Everyone has suffered with me this far, so here is the latest update.  My wife and I went to Hermann yesterday and met the sons.  They got there about 4:00, we arrived about 4:30.  Had supper with the paddlers and the support crew.  They had paddled through some light rain where as in the St. Louis area we had some real downpours.  The weather for the entire race has been spectacular.  Anyway they were in good spirits and seemed to be past most of the soreness.  Plan to be on the St. Charles river front when they arrive around 4:00 today.

The overview of the race is that as of last night something like 100 paddlers had already finished.  On the opposite end, of the over 500 people that had entered it appears that well over 100 never started.  I don't know when they have to be registered by, I think January or February, but I think some people register and then find out they can not participate for whatever reason.  It is a grueling event and my hat is off to anyone that participates.  A breakdown of my sons distances in round numbers is 100+ miles the first day, 90+ the second day, 70 something yesterday and about the same amount today.  

[snagged in outlet 3]

I saw a group going under the Page extension Bridge yesterday afternoon.

[timinmo]

They finished about 2:30 PM.  Tried and dirty but none the worst for wear.  It is pretty impressive to see how diverse a group participates in the race.  Everything from young men and women, to people in their seventies, I have no idea of the break down, you look around and the old saying "that it takes all kinds" gains new meaning.  That goes for the water craft also, everything from purpose built racers to old aluminum canoes and cheap Walmart kayaks.  I think this epitomizes the mind over matter deal.  It is certainly not about equipment and maybe not about training, nearly as much as shear determination to finish.  I admire the mental toughness of all the people who took part.

[Gavin]

Congrats to the boys! The did not quit and have a great memory. You raised yours well! The Ozark 100 is another challenge. Not for me but Slosh won it a couple years ago. Nonstop trail running for 100 miles. Belt buckle if you complete in less than 24 hrs. Best shuttle guy in the Ozarks. Likes to run them on foot.

[fishinwrench]

4 hours ago, timinmo said:

They finished about 2:30 PM.  Tried and dirty but none the worst for wear.  It is pretty impressive to see how diverse a group participates in the race.  Everything from young men and women, to people in their seventies, I have no idea of the break down, you look around and the old saying "that it takes all kinds" gains new meaning.  That goes for the water craft also, everything from purpose built racers to old aluminum canoes and cheap Walmart kayaks.  I think this epitomizes the mind over matter deal.  It is certainly not about equipment and maybe not about training, nearly as much as shear determination to finish.  I admire the mental toughness of all the people who took part.

Awesome!   Seriously, you should be proud.   A steak dinner is definitely in order.  

[timinmo]

If anyone is interested there is a MR340 page on facebook.  Also I think I mentioned before you can see results at "raceowl.com".  Quite an experience.

[GloryDaze]

Congrats to them! I just finished it for the 2nd time. I did it in 79hrs just like him my 1st year. Shaved it down to 59hrs this year. I just paddled more and stopped less, that was a 20hr difference. 

It's been a combo of elements for me to get through it- but ultimately it comes down to dealing with being uncomfortable. The issues vary, but primarily revolve around your hands, minimal sleep, sitting for 19hrs a day and the elements. If you can stay in your boat and paddle, you can finish. Regardless of age, weight, boat, etc...

It is a really great experience and especially paddling overnight. How many people can say they have paddled down the MO river at 3am in the morning. Now that is a hell of an experience.... dodging wing dams and buoys in the dark!

[Devan S.]

We finished in 76:28 first time finishers in an aluminum canoe. First 50 miles were the hardest. We thought we didn't need seat backs in the canoe but brought them just in case. By Lexington our legs and hips were killing us. We were using our upper legs to compensate for the lack of back support. After we threw the seat backs on all was good. Did 100 miles each day and finished with a short 40 on day 4. After awhile you just get in a rhythm and you tick off the miles. 

We had no intentions of winning and our goal was to enjoy it. We thoroughly did and at most of the check points we were in good spirits. Spent 30+ hours on land throughout the race so we could cut a lot of time off our finish but enjoyment took precedent over the timing. 

Guys/Gals going sub 45 are insane. For those willing to finish in the 65-88 hours time frame its all about staying in the boat and how long can you be uncomfortable depending on your boat. 

I seriously cannot imagine the water level or weather being anymore perfect than it was. 

[timinmo]

Good for you GloryDaze.  Haven't seen your posts as much lately, hope all is well. 

Yeah the boys are already plotting for next year.

One funny thing, my wife has been posting all this on facebook.  One of my old college roommates, 40 years ago, replies "that sounds like fun, I haven't been on a float trip since I left Missouri".  I could not think of any reply.  

[timinmo]

Devan I think my sons mind set was the same as yours.  They camped every night.  Their cousins were the ground crew and met them with camp set up.  Other than the first night when they got off the water around 10:00PM, they were in camp early enough to enjoy themselves. 

What was your number?  My sons were in a black Bell canoe #6623.