Jeff Lang is a Software Product Engineer. He lives in the East Bay Area with his wife and kids. Jeff is training for Angeles Crest 100. He has been running ultramarathons since 2008. He recently shared the history of his ultrarunning career and his personal 100 mile goal.
Tell me about your first ultramarathon experience.
My first ultra was the PCTR Diablo 50k back in 2008. Though I was trained up for the distance, I was in no shape for the climbing, long descents, and extreme heat. It almost broke me. Luckily, I was already registered for the PCTR Sequoia 50k and had a great 2nd race which really fired me up to continue.
What influenced you to run your first event?
Running ultras was the path to running Western States 100. I was a non-runner before meeting another school parent, Graham Cooper, back in late 2006. He did ok that year. Total shock and awe got me up off the couch.
What’s your preferred distance?
My preferred ultra distance is 100 miles. It’s the distance that inspires me to work hard and make sacrifices. All other ultras are long training runs leading up to them.
What do you like about ultrarunning?
I like the adventure. Seeing new places and trails. Testing my limits.
How do you find time to train?
In the beginning I would wake up at 4am and be at the trailhead at 4:30 or 5a. That was how I found the time. I forced it. I don’t have that same motivation anymore. With less, I’m learning the value of quality over quantity mileage.
What’s your fuel of choice?
Gels. GU or Hammer.
What is your primary goal this year?
Sub 24 at Angeles Crest 100. Time is running out for me!
What significant changes have you made in terms of training since you first started running these events?
When I first started training up until just a couple of years ago it was all about mileage. Miles, miles, and more miles. The more the better. Now it’s less about mileage and more about quality runs, rest and recovery, core workouts, stretching, and not being the human garbage disposal. Diet matters.
What’s your secret to ultrarunning success?
My competitive drive. It’s what gets me to register for races, train for them, and finish them. It’s also the reason for my failures. I’ve had terrible race discipline and that can really hurt you in ultras.
