Done. The entire time he had such momentum, the consensus was that Greg would nail this thing in 24 hours. Until that incredible pounding took its toll on his legs first, then the rest of his body.
While his general fluid volume was maintained, he was depleted in so many other areas it was a real learning experience to see the onset of the effects of the run. Only one of us knew the final full brunt of those symptoms.
Result: 80 miles in 24 hours.
The thing that stood out the most over the two days was his tenacity and positive outlook. Greg tried repeatedly to push himself beyond the limits his body was hitting, and he ultimately became incapable of moving on his own after 80.3 miles.
There is so much potential in the efforts not just of an individual athlete but the preparation and support systems behind his or her efforts. It was a great two days of learning for us. We were honored to work with all those involved and we hope that Operation Phoenix receives more attention and contributions as a result of Greg and Mallee's committment.
WHAT AN INSPIRATION TO ALL OF US TO PUSH OURSELVES AND TEST OUR PHYSICAL AS WELL AS MENTAL LIMITS. WISH I COULD HAVE BEEN THERE.
Posted by: NEIL | January 05, 2009 at 12:56
Amazing! Greg, one day I hope to meet you. You are a true superhero.
I can't imagine even trying a 26.2 mile walk-in-the-park marathon. Congratulations Greg and CF Marina!
Posted by: Herm @ CF Los Altos, CA | January 04, 2009 at 15:29
As I told him it was the most inspirational thing I've ever seen. Having never met the man until this event many sleep deprived hours ago, in my mind this sums up the character of the man I watched push this goal. Within the last 400 meters or so when his body was literally shutting down he actually turned and asked how I was doing knowing myself and several others had been up all night with him. Wow.
Posted by: Tyler | January 03, 2009 at 23:49
I visited with Greg in his hotel afterwards and he said something that really made sense. the goal was 100 miles in 24 hours and he did 80 miles in that time frame. In Cross Fit we strive to preform at 80% capacity in any domain. He did that this past 24 hours. My hat goes off to him and all the Cross Fit family that followed and supported him. Once again we showed what kind of family and community we have become.
Posted by: terrance@CFSSC | January 03, 2009 at 23:23
Greg, you are the man! Seeing the effort you put in over the last 2 days is an encouragement to us all. Your work ethic and tenacity is definitely something I aspire to. Great Job!
Posted by: david | January 03, 2009 at 22:23
Great Job Greg............a job well done. Your efforts were amazing and as many have said, a true inspiration to us all.
Posted by: Jeb | January 03, 2009 at 21:50