Caleb's first end-to-end

On Wednesday (December 10) I got a text from Caleb: "What runs do you have coming up in the next several days? Thinking of doing all of wildwood this weekend." Ann and I had just run all of Wildwood (and then some) two weeks previous for our birthdays, but how could I resist?

One of the powerlines down on Newberry Rd

We planned to run from the north, Newberry end, with Ann & I ending up Birch (Wildwood mile marker 7 1/2) for a nice 23 miler. I picked up Caleb and his friend Billy at the log-lined parking lot next to the zoo, at the south end of Wildwood. We drove to Ann's house, where her husband drove and dropped us off at Newberry.

The other side of the downed powerline-- notice the rope tying it to the tree at top right

There had been strong winds the past few days, and we were awestruck by the damage there on Newberry-- huge downed tree limbs and power lines. It was time to start the journey. Caleb hadn't run the distance in a long time, and Billy's longest-ever run was 18 miles... and off we went.

Billy and Caleb at Wildwood start

We had never run with Billy before, but I know that Caleb is fast. I was worried about keeping up. He lead, with a bit faster pace than we usually run for the distance.

Caleb contemplating the crazy force of one tree smashing into and cleaving another

And it was great. We chatted the whole way, learned a lot, and had a great time. It's always interesting to see what gear, food and supplies other bring. When we got to Birch Trail, Billy decided to join us. He had already exceeded his farthest distance by 5 miles and didn't want to push it 7 more.

Selfie at Birch Trail-- where Ann, Billy and I ended

We took some photos, wished him luck, and with an extra caffeinated Clif Shot that Ann gave to Caleb, said our goodbyes. Billy, Ann and I ran back to Ann's house, and I drove Billy back to his car. Caleb texted me when he finished, a couple hours later. It was tough, but he pushed on and made it! He said that Ann's Clif Shot saved him. Maybe next time we'll coordinate and all go the whole way together.

Group portrait at Wildwood and Birch