Pearl iZUMi Ultra Run Team! L to R: Ian Torrence, Josh Brimhall, Nick Clark, Ashley Nordell, Darcy Africa, Timothy Olson, Scott Jaime-Photo By: Eric Wynn

Last year I decided that I wanted to run with gumption. I wanted to push my body to the extreme and run Ultra’s as fast as I possibly could. I learned a lot last year about what my body can handle and myself. There were sacrifices involved, but in the end I was quite happy with the results. Not only have I met amazing people and viewed beautiful vistas, but I was also honored with the privilege to run for the company and team Pearl iZUMi!

Boulders signature Flatirons

Set with a dazzling backdrop of the Colorado Rockies’ flat irons is Pearl iZUMi headquarters. In my short visit to Louisville Colorado for the Pearl iZUMi Team Summit, organized by Kody Riley (thanks for all the work you put into this weekend and the team), I was taken on a whirlwind voyage through the design and final production of their product. I had the opportunity to meet most of the Pearl iZUMi staff that makes all this great gear possible. Man, they work hard and what an interesting experience to learn more about their products and the materials that make each piece unique and efficient. The Peak II is the most excited I’ve ever been about a shoe by far. I was privileged to be sporting the only size 9 that exists so far. Mike Thompson (the shoe guru) has turned out a smoking trail shoe with the input from Pearl iZUMi team members. I’ll talk more about the shoe later, but I look forward to flying around in this shoe for many miles and races. I’ll be débuting them at Way Too Cool 50K in a couple weeks!

The New Peak II

Not only did we get the inside scoop on amazing shoes and apparel, but we were also able to learn about other great ultra running products that sponsor our team as well.  We have Aric Manning who is our team manager and organizer, who also has killer shades with Smith Optics sunglasses to protect us from the sun and tree branches as we rip through the single track. They have a great line of sunglasses called Evolve which are earth friendly sunglasses using bio-based materials that work great for running like an animal or just casual chillin’.

Aric Manning and myself before a brisk morning run (why are you wearing shorts?) Photo:Ian Torrence

Robert Kunz and Krissy Mohel updated the team on the many benefits of using First Endurance for our fueling and daily strength, recovery and health.  I try to consciously watch what goes into my body and with the quality product I see with First Endurance I look forward to continued use throughout training and racing with their products. Check their stuff out; their Ultragen recovery drink alone will be a valuable ingredient to a healthy year of running.

First Endurance product-Photo:Ian Torrance

Dale Fleckenstein from HighGear informed us on all their products like their new Axio Hr that is the combo of their Axio Max and Alterra watch with altimeter, barometer, compass, thermometer and chronograph that will help you keep track of the essentials as you climb those gnarly climbs in your next outdoor adventure.  Keep an eye out for new advances like GPS as they keep expanding their technology.

Our Photographer Eric Wynn Photo: Ian Torrence

Throughout this jam-packed weekend, I learned a ton and was able to connect with both new and old friends.  I’m amped to be a part of Pearl iZUMi with such talented teammates and look to ramble over some incredible terrain as spring running fever is on the brink of eruption.

February Totals

Miles-498.00

Time- 71:32

Climed-99,081 ft