This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post and additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100.

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As you probably know by now, we have a group of Insane Runners joining us for the insanity of training for 100 miles. I would like to take a few of the weekly reports to share a little bit about these brave runners who either will be tackling Umstead 100 or will be helping us during training runs and pacing during the event.

Our 1st profile segment is featuring Venu, a great running friend I met while training for Umstead last year. In fact, he was one of the pacers during my last 100 miler (Loop 7 pacer) that kept me pushing forward to be able to finish my under 24 hours goal. As you will see from the details below, Venu is an accomplished runner that cares for and helps others in the sport of running, no matter their age. I recently had the privilege to run Derby 50k alongside Venu for a few miles.

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Runner Profile:

I am Venu Vegesana. I have been active fitness-wise for a few years on and off. I started my serious fitness journey with CrossFit and got into running in 2019. Since then, I have not stopped as there is, and I find so much fun and pleasure in running and also meeting lots of new friends. Since 2019 have completed 20 marathons and 2 (Well now 3) ultra distances (50k), and many half marathons.

What got you into running long distances?

When I am training for a marathon, it’s always a challenge after the 18th mile or 20s. That triggered me to run more long distances in training with some effective ways of using energy and nutrition. 

What do you love about running?

It is a simple but powerful way to be healthy, happy, and strong

What have you learned about yourself because of running?

Marathon is life – I learned that I could achieve many things with proper planning and execution, the same way we deal with a marathon. Also found I am a good listener and adapt to new things and learnings, and can take on challenges. 

What is your favorite distance?

Earlier in my running career was the Half Marathon. Now, it’s a 15-mile loop that we do at Umstead every week.

What made you decide to tackle Umstead 100?

I am always amazed by the nature that is available at our doorstep @umstead. I always planned to do one run in a month. After I met Carlos, outdoor running became more close to my heart. After my first Umstead 100 event as a pacer, I am amazed by the wonderful team of organizers and passionate runners that make the Umstead 100 more special. In 2021, I fixed in my mind that I would contribute to this event every year as a runner or pacer, or volunteer, but I won’t miss the experience. 

What are your goals for this event?

As Pacer, my only goal is to run at the goal pace by interacting and influencing the runner by understanding the physical and mental challenges at the time of my lap.

As a runner, train as per plan and prepare 100% on all aspects and just follow the plan at the race. I just want to enjoy nature and inspire by co-runners and take distance lap by lap.

What advice would you provide to a new runner?

Happy Running is the key. Don’t worry about pace and just enjoy as you feel that hour but stick to the basics of running.

Any other additional recommendations or ideas for runners out there?

Always the goal should be we are here to run longer and not just focus on one race. Learn and adapt to new ideas and always listen to your body on every run.

Just work to become a Happy, Healthy, and stronger runner and share your learnings with new runners on the block. #Happy Insane Running 

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How is the plan going:

Summary: Awesome week; a couple of great events, and although I could not run on Sunday, I believe the work was done.

Monday: Visited the gym

Tuesday: Easy morning run

Wednesday: Morning Yoga to stretch some and afternoon of InsaneRunning group

Thursday: Pacing Skinny Turkey Half

Friday: Rest day with some yoga

Saturday: Derby 50k, great weather, and great friends

Sunday: Rest day, some light yoga

This week’s actual numbers:

Week 8	Mon	Tue	Wed	Thur	Fri	Sat	Sun	Total
Plan	Stretches & Rolling	3	3	13	Stretches & Rolling	31	5	55
Actual	1 Gym	3	Yoga 5	13	1 Gym	31	Yoga	54

Next Week Plan: Thanksgiving week, which means two good events.

Week 9	Mon	Tue	Wed	Thur	Fri	Sat	Sun	Total
Plan	Stretches & Rolling	6	3	6	Stretches & Rolling	15	10	55