Charlie Engle's Blog

Badwater

2007-07-30T06:13:00.000-07:00

By Lisa Trexler

First, I'd like to apologize for neglecting to post a new blog lately.
Charlie and I are in the process of up-dating the website and as soon as we get that together we will be more consistent with our information.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Remember, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
Thank you.

And for those of you who signed up for the newsletter - you can expect one by the end of the week.

***BADWATER 2007
It started with the normal preparations for this race that Charlie has now finished 4 times.
We organized our crew of 5 people this year, gathered our supplies, and headed to Death Valley.
As we arrived to the "Furnace Creek Ranch Inn," situated in the town of Furnace Creek, we exited the vehicle and stepped out into a mere 115 degree atmosphere, compared to the normal 128 degrees we've grown accustomed to expect in the middle of Death Valley.

Charlie started out right away with a short run to acclimate to the harsh surroundings. He and his crew mate, Chuck Dale who was there for the 3rd time and also accompanied him during the Sahara run, quickly adjusted to the temperature, discussed plans for the race, and made their way back to the room for a good massage. (Chuck is a certified Massage Therapist)

I, being the crew captain and having made my 3rd appearance as well, gathered the rest of the crew - Mario and Sonya Zamora from Newport Beach, along with Chuck Weissman. This was their 1st time to crew for Badwater and had no idea what was about to happen!
I gave them a brief synopsis of what, when, and how to do everything. I told them it could be difficult at times but they would definitely enjoy the experience and have fun. (suckers)

We stocked all the coolers, prepared all the neck-wraps, decorated the vans (support vehicles), ate dinner, checked out the local gift shop, attended the race meeting, went for a quick run, and baked a pie - all in a day's work! Now we were ready to get some rest for the "big day" coming up.

7am wake-up call. Load the vans. Check. Help Charlie prepare. Check. Give orders. Check. Eat a quick, nutritious breakfast of cinnamon bagels. Check. Last Will and Testament. Check.
And we're off!

Charlie's in the 10:am wave. (all the faster runners) As we were driving the way to Badwater, 280 feet below sea level, we pass runners from earlier waves of 6:am and 8:am and cheer them on in our best synchronized yelp of "wooh - hoo!!!"
The start is full of people, runners and crew, and all are waiting in anticipation of the National Anthem to be sung in unison - no, waiting for the line up to get this thing started!!
Seriously, after we pay tribute to our wonderful country - the runners line up, a few words are spoken by the race coordinator, the countdown begins, and they're off!! Only 135 miles to go!!!

The crew jumps in the van and heads out about a mile. We have to stop about every 1/2 mile to a mile, in a leap-frog fashion, to attend to Charlie and make sure all is good for him. We may literally stop over 250 times during the next 26 - 28 hours. Our job consists of: filling hand-sewn neck wraps (by me - $25.oo sets to be sold) with ice. These are to be wrapped around Charlie's neck and placed over each carotid artery to help keep his core temperature cool. We alternate a new wrap about every mile with fresh ice. We also provide a cold, wet, washcloth dipped in ice water so he can squeeze this over his head. This also keeps him cool. Next we check to make sure his legs are kept dry, make sure he has some nutrition (bars, gels, food), and always, ALWAYS a fresh, cold bottle of Gatorade or water. He will also take some salt tabs and electrolytes along the way. This is what we do at every stop, every single time. He, of course, keeps running in the process. We look like a well, seasoned pit crew at the Indy 500. (one person with a bottle, one with a towel, one with a washcloth, one with a sprayer, one with gels and bars, and Mario making bolt remover sound effects) You could imagine the sight!

After mile 17, the runners are allowed to have pacers. So we all took advantage of tagging along behind Charlie, alternating with each other about every 4 - 5 miles. This is not necessarily for pacing - we just like keeping Charlie company, talking with him to take his mind away, and getting a little exercise ourselves. It also gives us a feel for exactly what he is going through. (though were able to go back to the van at any time - whew!)

During this race it is important to remember the rules and safety. We, of course always followed these rules and never veered from them. Unless you want to count the times Chuck and I played chase in the middle of the road or at night when Sonya and I were trying desperately to keep Charlie entertained by blasting the music and doing a little "pole dancing" against the metal post that marked the curves in the road. LOL! Good times!!
Seriously, the road was long, the cars that passed were fast, and it was difficult to see at night. Not to mention, it was hot, we were tired, and lacked several hours of sleep. This makes all for dangerous times out there.
But we DID have some fun! (at least the crew did) It's a great time for us to chat, get to know each other, bond, and what-not. We have the pleasure of satellite radio, all the food we can cram in, and the cool air from the vehicles blasting out of the vents at highest speeds! When late night rolls around and we are beginning to experience some sleep deprivation, we tend to get a little silly which makes for more fun and excitement!
I'm sure Charlie enjoyed our attempts to entertain and try to keep him awake. (can you sleep and run at the same time?)

Charlie did really well up until around mile 3. - LOL! Just kidding. He did very well considering he hadn't been able to train much before the race and he was feeling a little overweight. There are always problems with the stomach during such times of putting your body through this kind of stress. So it was inevitable that Charlie would experience the pain of stomach cramps and bloating. (now he knows how I feel once every month!) It's difficult to eat and drink when you don't feel like it and the heat doesn't' help. So for a while, almost every bit of food that Charlie tried to eat came right back up about a 1/2 mile later. This continued to happen over and over again. I think he left a lot of his "soul" out there on the pavement!
It's also difficult to urinate during this time. Running usually make you want to pee, especially after drinking so much. And even though he wanted to go, he just couldn't. The feeling was there but nothing was coming out. The body was using up all the liquids going in but wasn't processing properly. (again with the stress)
Anyway - after several miles of "wear and tear," Charlie finally was able to eat his dinner and keep it down.

Going into the 2nd day - we go through a section at the bottom of a long, steep hill t0 which he just climbed the other long steep side up - and just when we think the worst is over...... OUCH!!
- Biting flies!!! I remember these nasty little buggers from last year. They're always in the same section of about 5 - 10 miles, swarming over you like you just ran through a bee's nest. They are so annoying and don't make for very good running. You have to constantly swat them away - and they are relentless.
We still have not figured out why they are only in that one section and why there are so many. But at least they are only in that one section.
This is also where a Borax company is resting and where we get a lesson by Chuck W. (an engineer) about the dust particles swept up by the wind and blown several hundred miles into the atmosphere - not a good thing. (Chuck kept Charlie quite entertained himself with all his good wit and knowledge)

On our way to the portal of Mt. Whiney we go through a quaint little town of Lone Pine.
(population: 2000 people) (why would you want to ever live in Lone Pine?) It's hot there too!
Very friendly people, very friendly town. It has everything you need. (one grocery store, one post office, one gas station, one gift shop, one hotel, one car wash, one bank, one Carl's Jr., and one stoplight) Perfect!!
Seriously, if you ever get a chance to visit Death Valley, you have to see Lone Pine. It really is a nice town with ONE HECK-OF-A view - Mt. Whitney! Absolutely beautiful.

Okay, so were at mile 122 and 3700 feet. It's the final climb and boy is it ever steep! I don't know many people who have ever actually run up this part. A good steady hike is fine for me. Charlie is still doing well and pushing forward. This is the part where I get to walk along beside Charlie and reminisce the past several hours of being inspired by such an experience. It puts life into perspective and gives new hope for better things. There is something special about doing such a challenging event that makes you more appreciative of life and nature.

After a grueling, tiresome, long haul up the portal - we are nearing the finish. We have the vehicles parked then we all line up beside Charlie for the final 1/4 mile and cross the finish line. At 8371 feet, it must feel so good to have accomplished such a feat. I can only imagine what Charlie thinks and feels during this time. (and all along the route)

As any other event may go, the anti-climactic ending was just that. A few photos, a medal, some pats on the back, lots of hugs, and some tears, then try to make Charlie get in the car by bending his ever-so -sore legs to a seated position.
Driving back down the mountain is always meaningful too. (not to mention easier) We pass the other runners, climbing up, with appreciation of what they are doing - cheering them on - "It's all up hill from here, almost there!"

To end this journey, we find ourselves at a hotel in Lone Pine for a night of rest. The awards ceremony will be held the following day where we get to enjoy all the clapping and cheering of everyone, the congrats to all the runners, and lots of pizza!!
The race has a 60 hour cut-off time. It's difficult to think about how it must be to be out there that long, as some runners do. But for most, they finish - first or last, weak or strong, 22 hours or 60 hours - This is Badwater - this is how the race "runs."
Congrats to all the fine runners of this year's Badwater race. Hope to see you again next year.

As for Charlie - his next event is the Furnace Creek 508. This is a 508 mile bicycle race across some of the same route as Badwater. He is going for the Death Valley Cup - a combined time of the two races. (Badwater and 508)
Stay tuned.........

Run The Sahara Finish (story by Charlie Engle)

2007-04-12T17:33:00.001-07:00

Feb 21, 2007 ARE WE THERE YET? DAY 112, THE DAY AFTER.
AS SOON AS MY HANDS WERE DRY FROM DIPPING THEM IN THE RED SEA, I WAS PRETTY MUCH READY TO HEAD TO THE HOTEL AND GET CLEANED UP. CONSIDERING THAT I HAD TAKEN ONLY TWO SHOWERS IN 111 DAYS, EVERYONE WITHIN SMELLING DISTANCE WAS READY FOR ME TO HAVE A SHOWER TOO. AN INFORMAL AND COMPLETELY UNSCIENTIFIC POLL OF SEVERAL STRANGERS IN MY VICINITY CONFIRMED IT. I SMELLED INCREDIBLY FUNKY.
WHEN WE ARRIVED AT THE HOTEL, WE PULLED UP TO THE CURB AND PILED OUT OF OUR TRUCKS. I WAS IMMEDIATELY SELF CONCSIOUS BECAUSE WE WERE IN THE MIDST OF "NORMAL" PEOPLE THAT HAD COME TO CAIRO FOR BUSINESS OR HOLIDAY. I HAD FORGOTTEN THAT THEY WOULD BE HERE. AND APPARENTLY THEY KNEW NOTHING ABOUT US JUDGING BY THE LOOKS WE GOT. ITS NOT THAT PEOPLE WERE HORRIFIED, JUST VERY PUZZLED BY OUR APPEARANCE. FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MONTHS, I TOOK A MOMENT TO LOOK AT MYSELF AS OTHERS MIGHT BE LOOKING AT ME. I WAS FILTHY AND SMELLY AND I WAS LIMPING TERRIBLY. MY NOSE AND EARS WERE COVERED WITH SCABS. MY HAIR WAS SCRAGGLY AND I HAD LOST A TREMENDOUS AMOUNT OF WEIGHT. ALL I WANTED TO DO WAS GET TO MY ROOM, CLEAN UP, EAT SOME DECENT FOOD AND GO TO BED.
I MANAGED TO DO ALL OF THESE THINGS IN LESS THAN TWO HOURS. WHEN I HIT THE SACK I WAS MORE EXHAUSTED THAN I CAN EVER REMEMBER BEING. I WAS ALSO VERY SATISFIED AND THE REALIZATION THAT WE WERE FINISHED WAS SLOWLY BEGINNING TO SINK IN. I ALMOST DRIFTED OFF TO SLEEP BUT I KEPT HEARING NOISES IN THE HALLWAY OUTSIDE. I GOT UP TO LOOK BUT THERE WAS NOTHING THERE. NEXT I HEARD THE PEOPLE IN THE ADJOINING ROOM. THEN I HEARD AN AIRPLANE AND THEN I COULD HEAR THE CARS OUTSIDE. I COULD HEAR EVERYTHING AROUND ME. I FELT LIKE I HAD BIONIC HEARING. I GUESS I HAD BECOME SO ACCUSTOMED TO THE QUIET OF THE DESERT THAT I WAS HYPERSENSITIVE TO THE "STRANGE" NOISES AROUND ME. I LAY IN BED FOR HOURS BEFORE FINALLY FALLING ASLEEP.
WHEN I AWOKE THE NEXT MORNING, I COULDN'T OPEN MY EYES. I WAS SURE THAT SOMEONE HAD GLUED THEM SHUT DURING THE NIGHT. IT WAS ABOUT 10:30 IN THE MORNING AND I WAS IN A PANIC. I COULD NOT UNDERSTAND WHY IT WAS SO LATE IN THE MORNING AND YET I WASN'T RUNNING. MY FOGGY BRAIN FINALLY DRIFTED INTO FOCUS AND I STARTED TO LAUGH WHEN I REALIZED THAT THERE WOULD BE NO RUNNING TODAY. IN FACT, I LAUGHED SO HARD THAT I GOT A MASSIVE CRAMP IN BOTH OF MY CALVES. JUST A LITTLE REMINDER OF THE PREVIOUS DAYS.
AS SOON AS MY CRAMPS WENT AWAY, I HEARD MY ROOM PHONE RING. I ANSWERED IT EXPECTING TO HEAR MY MOTHERS VOICE. INSTEAD IT WAS ANNA FROM THE ASSOCIATED PRESS CALLING TO CONGRATULATE ME. SHE HAD INTERVIEWED ME SEVERAL DAYS BEFORE AND WRITTEN A VERY THOROUGH ARTICLE ABOUT OUR JOURNEY ACROSS THE SAHARA DESERT. SHE HAD A FEW FOLLOW UP QUESTIONS AND WARNED ME THAT I SHOULD EXPECT MORE CALLS AND E-MAILS FROM OTHER MEDIA OUTLETS. I HAD NO REAL IDEA WHAT THAT MEANT BUT I THANKED HER FOR THE HEADS UP. WHAT IS A MEDIA OUTLET ANYWAY?
SHORTLY THEREAFTER, MY PHONE STARTED TO RING AND SO DID LISA'S (MY GIRLFRIEND). IT WAS CNN AND THE JAY LENO SHOW AND DAVID LETTERMAN AND FOX NEWS. THERE WERE CALLS FROM NEWSPAPERS AND MAGAZINES AND RADIO STATIONS FROM AROUND THE WORLD. I WAS SHOCKED BY ALL OF THE ATTENTION. I HAD JUST SPENT 111 DAYS STRAIGHT IN ALMOST TOTAL ISOLATION, FEELING FOR THE MOST PART LIKE I WAS ALONE AND NOBODY BUT MY MOTHER WAS WATCHING OUR PROGRESS. I COULD NOT HAVE BEEN MORE WRONG.
I SPENT THE NEXT TWO DAYS ANSWERING HUNDREDS OF QUESTIONS AND TRYING DESPERATELY TO TRANSLATE THE EMOTIONS I WAS HAVING INTO WORDS SO THAT OTHERS COULD UNDERSTAND WHAT WE HAD JUST BEEN THROUGH. IN TRUTH, I JUST WANTED TO GET SOME REST AND GO HOME TO MY CHILDREN IN NORTH CAROLINA. BUT I NEEDED TO LEAVE THE SAHARA DESERT FEELING LIKE THE GROUNDWORK HAD BEEN LAYED FOR THE SECOND PHASE OF THIS EXPEDITION: H2O AFRICA. AFTER ALL OF OUR HARD WORK, WE HAD FINALLY EARNED THE RIGHT TO TALK ABOUT BRINGING CLEAN WATER TO AFRICA. SO THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT I DID UNTIL THE VERY MINUTE THAT LISA AND I LEFT FOR THE CAIRO AIRPORT.
I HAD LOOKED FORWARD TO THIS MOMENT FOR MANY MONTHS. I WAS GOING HOME. NOW THAT THE TIME TO LEAVE EGYPT WAS UPON ME, I FOUND IT VERY DIFFICULT TO ACTUALLY GO. WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME? I AM NOT REALLY SURE WHY I HESITATED, BUT I THINK IT HAD TO DO WITH THE POWERFUL AFFECTION THAT I NOW FELT FOR AFRICA AND THE PEOPLE THAT I HAD MET DURING MY JOURNEY. I HAD POURED THE LAST TWO YEARS OF MY LIFE INTO THIS EXPEDITION AND NOW IT WAS OVER. I WAS SAD AND I WORRIED THAT I MIGHT NEVER GET TO RETURN. FINALLY, I REMEMBERED THAT THE WHOLE POINT OF RUNNING THE SAHARA WAS TO EXPERIENCE THE DESERT AND IT'S PEOPLE AND THEN TAKE WHAT I HAD LEARNED BACK HOME SO THAT I COULD SHARE THE EXPERIENCE WITH OTHERS. IT WAS TIME TO GO.

Return Home (story by Lisa Trexler)

2007-04-08T05:47:00.000-07:00

Attention readers:

Forgive me for not posting a blog for quite some time.
I could use the excuse that I've been super busy making plans for myself and Charlie, or that when we returned from Africa I immediately became overwhelmed with so many things to do or that life back in the US took over as usual. Or, it could have been because we were eaten by a giant, man-eating, desert spider - but that wouldn't be true - I wouldn't be here writing this now.
Excuse or not, I HAVE been making plans for myself and Charlie and I HAVE been overwhelmed with so many things to do since our return. After my incredible experience in Africa, life in the US DID take over. Even one week after being back it seemed as though we weren't gone at all.
It's funny how "luxuries" can do that; TV, hot showers, microwaves, food-at-the-ready, water, etc.
I can't believe that I was in a place, not too long ago. that didn't have most of these things.
(Egypt is quite different of course) As for most of the desert, it wasn't so easy to get a hot shower, drink clean water, or have food-at-the-ready. And there were no t.v.s or microwaves.
But, as I've said before, when you're in a place like that you quickly find out that you really don't need all of those things anyway. (in exception to food and water)
I had it easy; just visiting I was catered to with food, water, shelter, showers (sometimes), even an ipod. So I can't say that I came anywhere close to living as the desert people do. But being there, seeing and experiencing life as it is, was a terrific and inspiring moment of my time. Still, the people are very friendly and for the most part happy. And what a beautiful place!Everywhere you looked you saw beauty - beautiful faces, beautiful land, beautiful skies. Nothing I've ever seen could compare. The oldest continent on earth deserves the right to be called the most beautiful.

As Charlie and I arrived at the airport in Raleigh, NC - there were no big surprises waiting. I would have loved to have seen his expression as we walked toward many people waiting with big signs welcoming him home. And there were no television or radio crews ready for interviews. But, to no one's fault or even knowledge of our arrival, we walked toward the baggage claim, passing people along the way who had no idea what Charlie had just accomplished. (but they would know soon) It was late - later than we expected. So even if we did have plans for a welcome party they would have been waiting for quite some time.

Our drive home was mostly quiet. We were both tired from travel but I really think Charlie was quiet (he's never quiet) because he was going over so many things in his mind. I'm sure he was reminiscing about his long journey and "taking in" his arrival home. It will be different for him for a while. Being away for so long and coming back to such a different place will take an adjustment - physically and mentally. I know he was glad to be back but I also know he will truly miss the Sahara desert, the people, and his run.

The phones didn't stop ringing! Radio and television would be his next adventure - and right away! No rest for the weary!
Charlie must have spoken to over a hundred radio and news people since the time of his finish. I purchased a schedule book and had my pen ready because I knew I would be responsible for organizing his time from now on. Everyday was booked. It's all good!!

Next stop - Jay Leno!
If you missed this then you missed a great moment on late night TV. Charlie and the guys (Ray & Kevin) did an excellent job with their experience on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno." In the short 8 mins they were allowed, they gave a good idea of what "Running the Sahara" was about.
It was really cool for me to watch it from the audience! I was so proud!
They'll visit the show again later.

As for now, Charlie continues with interviews, writing, and working on his speaking skills.
We are working on further efforts for H2O Africa and bringing clean water to the Sahara. We plan to visit there again soon.
We are enjoying our time with our family and friends. Charlie has spent good, quality time with his boys that he missed for so long. And of course ALL the kids (mine included) missed him and were so excited to hear all about his trip and what he brought back. (mostly what he brought back for them)
We're all very happy and trying to be mindful of how fortunate we are.
We can't wait to see what our future holds.
Life is GREAT!!!

This is the short version.
And FYI, there is a "Welcome Home" party planned for Charlie this month.

Congratulations to all three guys! Charlie, Ray, and Kevin
What an AWESOME accomplishment!

by: Lisa Trexler

Libya

2007-01-19T09:24:00.000-08:00

Latest update:

The guys have made it through the border of Libya. - passing through a military outpost that used to be some type of gas station at some time.
The people are very serious but you know Charlie can make almost anyone laugh. And he did - he made the guards laugh by saying: "Come run with us." They seem to have accepted the runners pretty well. (so far, so good)

It is very cold there right now. 33 degrees in the am and only warming up to about 50 degrees in the afternoon.
The winds are about 15mph at an altitude of about 2500 feet.
"You would swear you were in Utah," Charlie said. "There are big, beautiful, plateau type mountains surrounding." The desert still looks the same, but the background gives you the feel of Western America.
They will soon be coming into the more modern, wealthy parts of Libya and hopefully will be through in 20 days or less.
They still hope to finish by the 100th day, February 10, at the Red Sea.

FYI:
Charlie has made history! It is literally a historical moment for any American to run through/in Libya and CHARLIE is that man! This is huge accomplishment in itself.

Let's keep our fingers crossed that these guys will accomplish the full goal. There isn't much time left and it has been quite the Journey!!

Looking forward to another update soon.

"Team Charlie Engle" Headquarters

Girls Return

2007-01-11T08:01:00.000-08:00

I'm finally back from ONE FANTASTIC TRIP to Niger, Africa.
It was so amazing and there just aren't any words worthy enough to describe this place.
It's power, spirit, glory, and sadness were all an unforgettable experience.
I was so appreciative in so many different ways; for the opportunity to visit such a place and also for all that I have here at home.
I also realized that you really don't NEED as much as you think you do and "our" needs are so miniscule to those of some of the African people.
After never receiving my luggage the entire trip, I quickly found out that I didn't really "need" all that stuff anyway. None of that matters in most places there.
The people in Agadez were very friendly and actually pretty happy.

The Christmas Day reunion shared by "the guys" and "us girls" was wonderful.
They were so happy to see us! They looked pretty healthy - a little skinnier, but good!

It was amazing to watch them get up every single day and run at least 50 miles! (especially straight into 50-60mph headwinds the entire way - SAND STORMS!)
It was enough just to hear about it - but to actually witness it first hand was incredible!
I now have a new appreciation for these guys. You can't imagine how trying and difficult it is to accomplish such a task. And they've done it with incredible enthusiasm, spirit, and determination. (along with a little humor)
They are all so strong, especially Charlie, and there is absolutely nothing physically wrong with them at this point to keep them from finishing.

We camped in the middle of the Sahara Desert for 5 nights; each day waking at 5:00am, eating breakfast, then off and running. (well, at least for the guys anyway)
The girls (Kathy & Nicole) and I caught up later when we finished our morning routine. We would meet them at the next checkpoint on their route.
They ran at a good, steady pace, stopping about every 5K for Gatorade and any power foods they needed. (keeping the break limited to 2 or 3 minutes - then on for the next 5K)
They kept this up until lunch break everyday and would then run again after break for a couple more hours.
Not once did I hear anyone complaining!

It was fascinating to see all the wonders of the Desert. Some curious people, Nomads, came out (from somewhere -?) to say hello and of course ask for things. (gifts - money, jewelry, sunglasses, water - anything really) They were wearing only sandals, robes, and head scarves with dirty faces, hands and feet. (but smiling!) It was actually an honor for me to get to try to communicate with these people. I admire them for there ability to continue on each day in the conditions they are under in the Desert. Beautiful people!

The sand dunes were incredible and all the ancient writings on rock walls were incomprehensible. I can't imagine life before now.
It was cool to find ancient arrowheads, pottery, and tools.
Charlie and I have had an on-g0ing challenge of trying to find "hearts" everywhere we travel. He found several heart-shaped stones for me from all the deserts through Africa that he's run so far.

As for the rest of the trip - the girls and I headed back to Agadez on December 31st.
We celebrated New Years in a quaint little restaurant (without the guys) - but toasted proudly to our experience and to the safe finish for Charlie, Ray, and Kevin in Egypt.

After a long journey home I arrive back to "life in America." (so different)
It was really quite depressing. I will miss that place. I know it's a struggle for the people who live there and it's not as pleasant as what I experienced - but just for things to be so much more simple - it's a nice thought and a memory I will never forget.
I will return someday and hopefully soon.
Charlie and I would like to continue to help bring awareness to poverty and the water situation in Africa and be more involved. It's a wonderful feeling to help others.

Of course there is much more to the trip than that - but this was my short version - it would take a week to write all the things I would have to say about my experience.
So, for now - just know that it was all worth it, the guys are doing well, and "life is good!"

Lisa Trexler

Girls To Visit Africa

2006-12-22T12:24:00.000-08:00

Check out the new RTS website
www.runningthesahara.com

It is AWESOME!!

Blogs will still be posted here but log onto the RTS site for additional information and some really cool photos accompanied by some very interesting articles.

The girls (Kathy and Nicole) and I are headed for Paris tomorrow. WE will be on our way to visit the guys in Africa. This will be an exciting moment as we meet them on Christmas day.
How cool is that?

Sorry there hasn't been any blogs from me lately - I've been under the weather - but I'm sure I'll have some great news when I return and some really cool stories to tell.

By the way - the guys are STILL doing GREAT!! What an amazing group. They seem to be filled with all the same spirit and excitement that they had from the very beginning. (and then some)
I know they've experienced more in the last few weeks than ever imagined. (good and bad)
Theres no doubt about their determination and dedication to this great cause!!

Happy Holidays to everyone! And keep those that are less fortunate in mind. Help others who can't help themselves. (near or far) There are many ways to do it - you just have to make the effort.

Lisa Trexler
" Team Charlie" headquarters

Headed To Niger

2006-12-08T16:16:00.000-08:00

The guys are making their way past Gao and headed for Agades, Niger!!
Still going steady dispite a few more stomach issues. It is to be expected in such situations.

There is a great aritcle in Sports Illustrated magazine. Check it out!

Also, as far as the RTS site - due to more delays, not anyone's fault inparticular, the site will go live on December 18th. (at least that's what I heard) Don't give up!! It has been a long, difficult road and many efforts have been made by hundreds of people to get this expedition going and keep it going.
So tell all your friends and family to continue their support. Many more updates will be available soon and lots of cool information!

Until next time.......

"Team Charlie" headquarters

Timbuktu

2006-12-04T15:33:00.000-08:00

Sorry - no new news for the RTS website - it was supposed to be today but looks like it will take longer. Keep checking.

For now - Charlie says: "Our duty on earth is to live the best lives we can so we can help other people live the best lives they can. Don't feel guilty about what you have, just make sure you do your best to make other people's lives better."

Charlie, Ray, and Kevin are now between Timbuktu and Gao, just above the Niger river.
"Mali is a beautiful place with very friendly people and very big mosquitoes."
It also has great sandunes in which they camped along top of one night.
"It was like being in a high rise building looking over the rest of the city."
Under a great big full moon, it's sure to an amazing sight!

Timbukto has around 150,000 - 200,000 people, so you can imagine the welcome that was given to these great runners as they entered into this wonderful place.

stay tuned........

from "Team Charlie" Headquarters

Stomach Issues

2006-11-27T14:12:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone!!! -

Check out www.one.org !!!

Make sure to sign up for updates.

The Run Becomes A Job

2006-11-24T11:03:00.000-08:00

Well, the "boys" are still working hard!! Or should I say - RUNNING hard!!

I get very little information in small doses and am doing the best I can in posting any info that I receive.
Please be patient but also keep checking back regularly for updates.
The "runningthesahara" website should be updated very soon. (not sure why they are not showing any new info yet)
But PLEASE, PLEASE log on and don't forget to check out H2O Africa!!
One "small drop" is worth "gallons" to the people of the world without water.

Charlie is moving right along and feeling really good! He's had some stomach issues but that hasn't stopped him for long.
It's natural for the body to reject the kind of abuse that its taking from all this running. One way of releasing that stress, by the body, is through the stomach. Whether it be by rejecting food, or immediately flushing the food out - the body will find it's own way to deal with these matters.
The amount of food these guys have to eat is unbelievable! And it is very difficult to eat when you are running so much. The body just doesn't want any food. But it certainly needs it. And it takes time for the body to adjust and acclamate to the "new eating plan."
In any case, after trial and error situations of the body and mind - the human spirit will prevail and keep pushing forward!!

They've reached their 50 miles a day mark and have gone on to run over 1000 miles in just a few short weeks!!!! (probably long weeks to them)
Give them all a big hand!!! Wow! What an accomplishment already!!!

Their only 2 days from Mali and will cover this great country in the next few weeks.

More info later.

From "Team Charlie" headquarters

2006-11-10T07:34:00.000-08:00

Charlie's quote for the day:

"Today is the day the run became a job!"

I spoke with Charlie this morning. He is still doing well, although struggling a bit. He and his teammates are simply tired, hot, and lacking sleep.
They knew the first couple of weeks would be tough so they aren't complaining at all, but they have released how they are feeling.
Their bodies will basically be "torn down" over a period of time before they adjust.
If they can just make it through these next several days, their bodies will have become more accustomed, along with their minds, and it will be much easier. (easy? - I don't think so.)

They're still treking through Mauritania and will soon enter a United Nations developement plan; a millennium village. They will get to view a finsihed product of what the hopes of this run will help accomplish throughout Africa.

As they ran early this morning through a small village, a few children began to run with them. Before they knew it, at least 15o children were running with them as they passed through the village. "A sight to behold!"

I asked about their food intake. They've been drinking at least 15 liters of fluids a day and eating cooked meals of pasta, rice, or couscous with a "beef stew" type topping. It's been more than acceptable, although they look forward to some of the "comfort foods" they brought with them each day.
It will take some time for their bodies to adjust to their new eating habits as well. They will have to take in over 8,000 calories a day to keep their bodies functioning properly. ( and so they don't lose too much weight. It is possible they could lose as much as 30 pounds or more by the end of this run. (not the ideal diet plan for most of us - LOL)

Keep checking in for the latest. I'm doing the best I can with what I have here.

From Lisa Trexler at "Team Charlie" headquarters

Trans Sahara Hwy.

2006-11-08T17:38:00.000-08:00

Okay everyone!
It's been 8 days.
They've covered about 450 K so far!

Their all doing really well and still have great spirit.
They are on their way to Nema, Mauritania along the "Trans Sahara Hwy."
It's a straight route for now.
They've come into some really large sand dunes and some really large scorpions as well.

Charlie says this area is beautiful. "Amazingly beautiful."
Each new place they enter is more fascinating than the last.

They've been getting up around 4:00am to start running due to the heat. It is usually 115 degrees by 11:00am. Very HOT!

Let's keep the faith and show our support!

450 K - a drop in the bucket compared to the 4,000 miles they will cross to fill the bucket!
Can WE help fill the bucket? ...... with clean water?
Charlie's doing his part. Are we doing ours?
Spread the word, raise awareness, and get support.
Log onto www.runningthesahara.com and click on H2O Africa to find out how you can help.

Take care everyone
Take care Charlie, Ray, and Kevin

From "Team Charlie" headquarters

Questions or comments:
ltrexler8@aol.com

Moving Along

2006-11-07T09:09:00.000-08:00

The latest:

Charlie and his teammates, Kevin and Ray, ran about 75 K yesterday.
They ran 7 hours in the morning and 4 hours in the evening.
The temperatures are well over 110 degress during the day and the nights are very cool.

He said: "The country is beautifuland I am doing well physically."

Kevin had a much better day and Ray is doing great and feeling very strong.

Don't forget to log onto www.runningthesahara.com
It should be up and "running" soon so you'll be able to track progress and read about H2O AFRICA to help donate for new wells and clean water.

From:
Team Charlie

Senegal To Mauritania

2006-11-03T15:43:00.000-08:00

Everything looks GREAT so far in Africa.
The "boys" ran their first 30 k through Senegal to the border of Mauritania.
I spoke with him for a brief moment;

Charlie: "Things went very well here today. We feel really good. We kept it slow. It's beautiful here and we can't wait to start again tomorrow."

Check back later for more updates.

From: Team Charlie

Run The Sahara Start

2006-10-31T08:06:00.000-08:00

Finally! Charlie Engle is "off and running!"
Well, not quite. He has arrived in Africa and will begin running tomorrow, November 1st.
He and his teammates, Ray Zahah and Kevin Lin, will start in Senegal on the West coast of Africa. There, they will begin the 4,ooo mile run across the Sahara Desert, where temperatures reach 130 degress.
They will average about 50 miles daily for 80 consecutive days and will explore sites and villages along the way.

The documentary, filmed by award winning director/producer James Moll, will stress how hundreds of people living in the region die needlessly for lack of water. It will reach into the lives of the Afriacan people of the Sahara and delve deeply into the culture through the eyes of the three runners.

Six countries will be crossed over diverse terrain as the runners make their noble quest to bring a new vision of the Sahara and its people to the world.
On a daily basis, they will interact with the locals, learn about their lives and challenges they face each day, and give hope that "tomorrow" will be better for them.

The film's goal will be to help raise awareness and get support to dig a well in every town and village the runners pass through.

Our goal, as people with better living standards, is to help raise awareness ourselves by doing what we can to motivate others to all unite around the love of Africa and create a desire to make a difference in the lives of the people of the Sahara in the best way we know how.
The best way Charlie Engle knows is by running.
And run he will!

In his words before leaving to Africa:
"Do something now! Don't wait. Do what you can. Even the smallest effort makes a great difference."

He also said:
"Even if there was no film, I would still run. I would still run across the entire Sahara Desert. Because I can. This is what I do - I run. And if my small effort is enough to raise awareness for this great cause, then it is exactly what I'd hoped for. And because those people of Africa deserve it. Every human being on this planet deserves it."

From everyone here at Team Charlie -
We're wishing him and his team the very best!
We know you can do it!!
Good luck. And run like the wind!!
Lisa Trexler

2006-08-10T18:33:00.000-07:00

3rd PLACE FINISH FOR CHARLIE ENGLE!!!

After a grueling 135 miles in 123 degree heat, Charlie finished the 2006 Badwater Ultramarathon in 28:18:36 - 30 minutes faster than his 3rd place finish last year.
At the start line, 280' below sea level, the crowd was full of energy, Charlie was full of enthusiasm, and the crew was ready to go!

The fisrt 17 miles are difficult. The runners shoot out of the gate with great excitement only to quickly realize they've just begun a 135 mile climb to the portal of Mt. Whitney.
At this point the runner is not allowed to have a pacer which makes the run seem that much longer, but with the stamina that Charlie has - who needs a pacer?

I along with 9 crew members were at the ready stopping literally, every 1/2 mile to refuel, wipe down, and ice up Charlie as he makes his way. With the speed and talent of an Indy Race car crew, we quickly learned exactly what Charlie needed at every stop.

It takes an awful lot of water, a ton of ice, and plenty of energy gels to make it all happen.
After reaching Furnace Creek, the 17 mile point, Charlie had his first pacer, Christian from France. Charlie has raced with him before in Mauritania. He is an excellent runner and is thinking of running the Badwater race next year along with Michel, another Frenchman who crewed with us.

Along the way the two vans which carried the crew, leap-frogged each 1/2 mile taking good care of Charlie and switching pacers quite often. Everyone wanted a chance to run with Charlie, especially his kids and they got their chance.

Everything seemed to go smoothly as Chuck, co-crew chief, and I followed the designated route to get Charlie to the finish. Not only did we want to get him there, but we had a well thought out strategy given by Ray Zahab from Canada who planned to get him to the finish much faster than last year.

To keep Charlie on track, Ray needed to make sure he ran up to pace with the plan and deignated times at each check point. We would also need MORE ICE! Off go Kevin Lin and Nicole Chaing from Taiwan for an ice run. Charlie did very well with all the help from his "International Crew!" As we passed through the night quickly, he was very strong, and gave his usual humor along the way.

The last few miles were the toughest as the steep climb to the top of the Mt. Whitney portal approached. With the enthusiasm and driving force of "Team Charlie" we all shared in the joy and honor of watching Charlie cross the finish line 30 minutes faster than his previous time.

All he could say is: "I ask myself every year I do this, if I am crazy? "
We are all very proud and we look forward to the next challenge....

Lisa Trexler
Team headquarters, North Carolina

2006-07-22T10:50:00.000-07:00

OFF TO THE RACES!!

Charlie and Team Charlie are leaving today for Death Valley, home to one of the toughest races you will ever run...Badwater.

The daytime tempertures for the 135 mile race will hover around a cool 125 degrees. (Watch our website - www.charlieengle.com for video footage of Charlie's race and dont be surprised if you catch a shot of an egg frying on the road surface!

Charlie is surrounded by a team of 9 great supporters. Ray Zahab from Canada and Kevin Kin of Taiwan, both Charlies' s team members for the upcoming "Running the Sahara" adventure in October, are both present as well as 2 of Charlie's good friends and runners from France. These men came along way to support Charlie and brainstorm a new strategy for this year that should shave 2 hours off last years time. Charlie is "going for the gold" and shooting for first place. He feels great and in good spirits so we are all rooting for him.

At last phone contact, Lisa was busy doing some last minute shopping and finalizing the fine details of the whole support network, not a small job, but she is kicking butt and taking names.

If you want to follow the race, go to www.badwater.com, they should be giving results daily. In the meantime, those of us stuck here at Team Charlie headquarters in North Carolina are excited and praying for a great safe run and a win!

RUN CHARLIE RUN!!!!

Team Charlie
North Carolina Headquarters.

2006-06-14T09:32:00.000-07:00

CHARLIE AND TEAM MATES WIN THE GOBI MARCH!

All of us here at "Charlie Central" are really proud of Team Chunghwa Telecom/MAGO. Charlie, Ray Zahab of Canada and Kevin Lin of Taiwan, won the 250 km Ultra Marathon that took place last week in China's Gobi Desert. In the team category, Charlie, Ray and Kevin were some 9 hours plus ahead of any other team competing, in fact, their time was so good, they beat many of the singles runners.

The Gobi March is one of the 4 Deserts Races (each 250km) in the "Racing the Planet" ultra running series. (Check out www.racingtheplanet.com) There are some great pictures and articles on the race.

Stay tuned to the blog, Charlie and Ray are going to Badwater to run in July. Then in September the team will make HISTORY as they run the Sahara Desert. No one has ever attempted this before and we are all very excited about this event. We will be posting everyday about the trials and tribulations Charlie, Ray and Kevin will face running coast to coast in Africa.

Congrats Team Chunghwa/MAGO!!

stay tuned.........