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DPMR at UTMB 2022 Part 2: The Women Runners

May 30, 2022 by Jack Macy Leave a Comment

utmb course
A bridge crossing on the UTMB course. Photo: Steve Woo

NOTE: Read Part 1 of our UTMB series about the three people running the full UTMB course!

For the second edition of our series on DPMR at UTMB, we chatted with three women who will be toeing the starting line at 2022 UTMB races to learn more about their training and outlook heading into their respective trips to Chamonix.

For an overview of UTMB races and the DPMR members and friends participanting, see our original post from last month, DPMR at UTMB 2022.

Profile 2: Our Women Runners at UTMB 2022

KRISSI POLENTZ (OCC)

How/Why did you decide to want to do this race?

Since I started getting into trail and mountain running, I’ve seen the epic photos, documentaries, & live streams of the UTMB races. It always seemed like an imaginary, fantastical mecca of towering mountains and impossibly expansive views (and still does). When I started seeing people I knew going to race, it became more tangible, and after accumulating enough points I decided to start entering the lottery – why not? 

Krissi training in the mountains. Photo: Krissi Polentz

What are your thoughts about the race as you are training for it right now?

Because I am “only” doing the 55km OCC, I bounce between underestimating it as a very palatable distance to me, and being totally intimidated by the immensity of the steep and technical terrain which I have no reference for.

What are your goals for the event?

I haven’t set concrete goals yet, and may not do so until I get into the thick of training and see how this fitness is going to turn into mountain strength. I definitely want to get out there to complete the race and take nothing for granted. And to race without fear.

How are you going about training for it?

I’ve started adding more vert into my training as I transition out of spring ultras and skimo season. I’ll use the Broken Arrow Vk, 11k, & 26k weekend to really kick off this training cycle. In July I hope that between the Oboz trail challenge again and some bigger training runs or trips, I’ll get some good mountain time in. I want to focus on some hill workouts during the week and enjoy mountain adventures on other days. I also plan to go out to Chamonix early and finish my last training block there alongside Steve & Mike.

Exploring Mount Rainier National Park. Photo: Krissi Polentz

What do you think your keys to success will be for preparing and racing it?

I plan to put the work in as best I can leading up, but also make sure to enjoy it and not forget why I like running in the mountains. I try to go into races more on the side of undertrained than overtrained, and while I do tend to push the gray area between the two more in the summer, I will still listen to my body first and foremost. The other real key to success in training and on race day will be to eat, hydrate, sleep, and recover without limit. 

Have you run at UTMB before? Have you previously completed similar races?

No. I’ve done some more mountainous races like TRT, the Golden Ultra, Broken Arrow, the Volcanic 50k, etc., but nothing near this scale. 

Krissi moving along the Frog Lake overlook. Photo: Krissi Polentz

Is this your first time racing in Europe or another country?

It’s my first time racing in Europe, and the only other international ultra I’ve done was the Golden Ultra Full Pint in Canada in 2019.

Anything else you’d like to share related to this endeavor?

I’m just really excited to experience the race and be amidst so many friends and the trail community.

STEPHANIE EVANS JACOBS (CCC)

How/Why did you decide to want to do this race?

A few years ago I had some trail running friends that ran in the UTMB Festival and thought that it would be great if I could get in some day. I really had not researched it but one day my husband just for fun went onto the UTMB website to see if I had any points and low and behold I had enough points for UTMB 100. So I started putting my name in the hat for about two years before I was selected. I was originally selected in 2020 but due to the Covid cancellation that year I decided to defer to 2022. 

Stephanie showing why she is excited for CCC. Photo: Stephanie Evans Jacobs

How are you going about training for it?

I really enjoy climbing hills, so one of the key things I do with training is run hills on the Starimaster at the gym. I think that has really helped me to become a stronger hill climber. I also include core and upper body conditioning so I can rely on both areas when my legs get tired. And try to get as much time up on the trails in Tahoe and Truckee not just for the hill work but for acclimating my lungs for elevation.

What do you think your keys to success will be for preparing and racing it?

A great attitude! I really love trail running and that love just keeps me inspired to prepare for the race, and I know once I am in Chamonix, that the beauty of the mountains is just going to excite my soul so much and inspire me to be a part of this great running festival.

Have you run at UTMB before? Have you previously completed similar races?

This will be my first race in the UTMB Festival. I would say running TRT100, TRT50, Castle Peak, and Canyons 100k/50k would be similar races here in the U.S. TRT100,TRT50, and Canyons 100k were my first 100 miles, 100k , and 50 miles races I finished.

Stephanie enjoying a patch of spring snow in the Sierras. Photo: Stephanie Evans Jacobs

Is this your first time racing in Europe or another country?

Yes, but hopefully not the only race in Europe or another country I get to run. I have had my eyes on Cape Wrath 400k in Scotland, Annapurna 100 in Nepal, Inca Trail Marathon in Machu Picchu, and Dublin, Ireland Marathon. 

Anything else you’d like to share related to this endeavor?

Just that I am so excited I am one of a few lucky people to get to participate in the UTMB Festival. It looks like such an amazing experience and I can’t wait to be there and run the Alps! 

HELEN MINO FAUKNER (CCC)

How/Why did you decide to want to do this race?

I decided I wanted to do this race when I watched the livestream of it last year. I didn’t think I would be racing CCC so soon, but I found out about the UTMB index and that I was able to get in without the lottery and have my entry fee paid for. 

Helen pushing along the 2021 Broken Arrow 52k course for a second place finish. Captured on October, 02, 2021 by Jesse Ellis. Copyright transferred to Alpenglow Mountain Sports via Scott Rokis Photography.

What are your thoughts about the race as you are training for it right now?

I’m really excited to get to experience this race and to run up some really big hills!

What are your goals for the event?

My number one goal is to have fun and to be able to handle whatever the day brings. My big goal outside of having fun is to put myself in a position to win. 

How are you going about training for it?

It still feels pretty far away at this point, but I’m running a decent amount and using races like Marathon Du Mont Blanc to help prepare and get a feel for racing in Europe. 

What do you think your keys to success will be for preparing and racing it?

I think one of my keys to success is having my nutrition and hydration dialed and practicing it during training runs. I think another one is coming back to the reason why I run and that’s because it’s fun. I love racing, but that’s not the reason I run. I love training for ultras and being able to spend long hours outside with the least amount of stuff carried. Races are a celebration of fitness, but not my driving factor in this sport. 

Have you run at UTMB before? Have you previously completed similar races?

I have not run at UTMB before! I’ve raced 4 ultras and one of them was a 100k so I would say the most similar would be Castle Peak 100k because of the distance. 

Helen is all smiles as she makes her way around the 2021 Castle Peak 100k course for a first place finish. Photo provided by Helen Mino Faukner

Is this your first time racing in Europe or another country?

By the time CCC happens I will have run Marathon Du Mont Blanc, but this will be my first summer racing in another country. 

Anything else you’d like to share related to this endeavor?

I’m just really excited, I’ve never been to the alps and I can’t wait to get to run around those mountains. My grandparents are my number 1 supporters and there’s no way I would be able to make this trip happen and be able to race in Europe twice this summer without them. They come to all of my races and are the best crew a gal could dream of. 

Next Month’s Feature: The Four Amigos of CCC

Steve, Jeff, Alex, and Sean at 2021 Western States. Photo: Steve Rowbury

Filed Under: General, Happening Now, Races, Training

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2023 Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon

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26
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6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Sep 26 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
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Join us for for Thursday evening speedwork for runner’s of all levels. Run starts at 6pm.  Workout will be about an hour and can be adjusted to your level. Location TBD. Keep an eye on[...]
Oct
3
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6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 3 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
Oct
5
Thu
6:00 pm Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Oct 5 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Join us for for Thursday evening speedwork for runner’s of all levels. Run starts at 6pm.  Workout will be about an hour and can be adjusted to your level. Location TBD. Keep an eye on[...]
Oct
10
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 10 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
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Join @healdsburgrunningcompany for a run (and plen Join @healdsburgrunningcompany for a run (and plenty of fun)!

📍 : @donnerskiranch 
⏰ : Saturday September 16th, 8am
🏃‍♀️ 🏃‍♂️ : Judah Loop and continue on the PCT.
Run the Judah loop for ~6 miles, continue to Anderson peak for ~13miles (or further on the PCT if you want to go longer)
🗺️ : https://www.strava.com/routes/3135724872218937730
🎉 : Rejoin at the Donner Ski Ranch Old 40 Bar & Grill after the run (and there may be some sweeeeet giveaways...).
🙋‍♀️ : The Judah Loop is a trail adopted and actively maintained by DPMR as part of @truckeetrails' Adopt a Trail program

#unafraid #trailrunning #runningcommunity #runninglife #runningmotivation #donnerpartymountainrunners #tahoe #tahoerunners #mountainrunners #DPMR #TruckeeTahoeTrailRunning #WeRunTrails #ultrarunning #lakesonoma #lakesonoma100k
Who's psyched for the Pt Mariah Trail Marathon TOM Who's psyched for the Pt Mariah Trail Marathon TOMORROW?!! DPMR is so excited to bring you this second edition of the race that promises to be bigger and better than last year! RD Chris Cloyd and team have been working so hard all week with final prep. The course is in great shape with some beautiful fun flowy singletrack. He said he'd love a few more volunteers so checkout the signup genius on our volunteer page, but otherwise wants everyone to please come hang out, cheer, and join the party! 
Unique to this race is the 5 segment course that utilizes a central aid station and can be done as a 2 person or 5 person relay, in addition to challenging yourself to run the whole thing solo!
Registration is still OPEN in person until 6pm tonight with bib pick-up at @tahoemountainsports with reg remaining open online til 1159pm. Race day bib pickup available in the morning 6-730am. No Race Day Reg. 

Thanks to our amazing sponsors this year, every participant will be eligible for a prize giveaway and get a pair of @darntoughvermont socks and @drinklmnt hydration.

#unafraid #trailrunning #runningcommunity #runninglife #runningmotivation #donnerpartymountainrunners #tahoe #tahoerunners #mountainrunners #DPMR #TruckeeTahoeTrailRunning #WeRunTrails #ultrarunning #trailmarathon #trailrace #pointmariah #pointmariahtrailmarathon
Hey DPMRers!  We’ve got something special in th Hey DPMRers!  We’ve got something special in the works.  We’ve been collaborating with Alibi Ale Works to release a co-branded beer (YES!).   Join us for a social run next Tuesday, where we'll have the pleasure of running alongside Alibi's head brewer, Matt Garcia! We'll hit the trails together, and afterward, we'll gather at Alibi to brainstorm the perfect brew that represents our club.  And since the DPMR Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon is just around the corner, we're adding some extra fun to the mix. We'll also be assembling course markings during the event. It's going to be an unforgettable night! Hope to see you there!
🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Calling All Running Ent 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Calling All Running Enthusiasts! Join Us in Supporting the DPMR Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️
The Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon is just around the corner, and we need YOUR help to make it a roaring success! 🌟 This incredible event brings together the running community and showcases the determination and passion of athletes from all walks of life. Now, we are seeking volunteers to be an essential part of this memorable experience!
📅 Event Date: August 5th
⏰ Volunteer Dates: Several different shifts available from August 2nd - August 6th
🤝 We firmly believe that it takes a village to organize events like these, and YOU can be a crucial part of this vibrant community effort! No prior experience is required—just bring your enthusiastic spirit, and we'll guide you every step of the way.
📍 Positions Available:
1️⃣ Course Marking: Help ensure that the runners stay on track and have a smooth route to follow.
2️⃣ Finish Line Support: Cheer on our amazing athletes as they cross the finish line and celebrate their achievements.
3️⃣ Course Marshals: Guide and assist participants at key points along the trail, offering encouragement and direction.
4️⃣ Timing Assistance: Play a vital role in accurately recording race times and ensuring accurate results.
... and more! There are plenty of opportunities to contribute to the success of the marathon.
🌟 Not only will you have a fantastic time being part of this incredible event, but you'll also have the chance to bond with fellow running enthusiasts, make new friends, and create lasting memories.
💪 Together, let's show the world the power of community and support in making this marathon an unforgettable experience for everyone involved!
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR!
Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! Link in bio.
Thanks to everyone who came out and volunteered at Thanks to everyone who came out and volunteered at the Diamond Peak aid station this weekend at the Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs.  Everyone out on the course really appreciated all of the support!!! Stay tuned, we will be posting the Volunt(hero) leaderboard soon!  In the meantime, we're seeking more incredible volunteers to join our team at the upcoming Pt. Mariah trail marathon, and we promise it'll be an experience you won't forget! 😄
Sign up today! No experience needed. Link in bio.
The heat is on! Our Volunt(hero) program is going The heat is on! Our Volunt(hero) program is going strong with more than 60 volunteers out helping runners get through our various aid stations this year. What is the Volunt(hero) program? The top 10 DPMR volunteers with the most hours logged in 2023 will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win free race entries for a year, up to $1000. We will be posting our leaderboard soon but only a few hours separate those at the top.  Adding a shift can catapult you in to one of the coveted top 10 spots to be included in the raffle.  So come and join us THIS WEEKEND out at TRT! There are still openings overnight, morning clean up Sunday, and sweeps for TRT (Double points for morning clean up).
All volunteers that work at least one 6 hour shift will be entered in to our lottery for a race entry in to the 2024 TRTER race. You get one entry for each 6 hour shift you work. Overnight shifts get a bonus with two entries! Winners of the lottery can choose the distance but 100 milers still must have a qualifying race.
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR! 🔥🔥🔥
Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! 🙏🏻 Link in bio for more info!
Meet DPMR Board President, Diane Frederic! Diane h Meet DPMR Board President, Diane Frederic! Diane has been a DPMR member since the inaugural year (2014).  She has been a board member for 5 years with the last 3 at the helm. Diane loves a good joke and believes life is a whole lot better if you don’t take things too seriously.  She also believes that trail time is best shared with dogs and friends. And friends with dogs.  Diane is a recovering graphic designer but will come out of retirement for a good race logo opportunity (thank the cosmic forces for that!). Diane will be out on the course for the TRT100 next weekend - so if you see her out there, give her a big hello and high-five! Good luck Diane! #unafraid #dpmr #girlboss #100miler #paincave #yougotthis
Hey friends! DPMR is on the hunt for a trail-runni Hey friends! DPMR is on the hunt for a trail-running-obsessed artist extraordinaire to transform our boring old 3D foam sign for Pt. Mariah into a mind-blowing piece of art. Picture this: foam sculpture meets artistic genius equals immortalizing Pt. Mariah in your artistry.  The project consists of 30” letters, which are 4” thick, and spell Pt. Mariah.  The letters can be picked up in Truckee after Jul 3rd and need to be complete by August 3rd. This is a commissioned project with a budget of $500. 

Are you ready to unleash your creative beast? Then don't hesitate! Slide into our DMs faster than a trail runner chasing a PR. Don't miss out on this opportunity to create something truly legendary.
The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs are almost here The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs are almost here!!  Please consider volunteering with us.  We have many shifts available from Friday, July 14th through Sunday, July 16th! 
All volunteers that work at least one 6 hour shift will be entered in to our lottery for a race entry in to the 2024 TRTER race. You get one entry for each 6 hour shift you work. Overnight shifts get a bonus with two entries! Winners of the lottery can choose the distance but 100 milers still must have a qualifying race.
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR! 🔥🔥🔥

Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! 🙏🏻
Link in bio for more information. 

P.S. If you are racing, let us know so we can cheer you on!!
What are you waiting for? Register today to take p What are you waiting for? Register today to take part in a unique, fun, multi-loop style course with five segments that tour different parts of the Royal Gorge land. Race solo, with a partner, or as a 5-person team!  There is something for everyone! Register today! Link in bio.
Congratulations to Courtney Dauwalter on absolutel Congratulations to Courtney Dauwalter on absolutely shattering the women’s course record at Western States 100 today! Such an inspiration to all. We know you are the GOAT but tell us the truth Courtney… is your secret weapon the DPMR pancakes?!?
Huge congrats to Tom Evans for his win at Western Huge congrats to Tom Evans for his win at Western States 100 just now. Incredible performance landing him the 4th fastest time in the history of the event!  Well done Tom!
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