The third annual 4x4x48 for ICT SOS is in the books.  Although I run several ultra-marathons per year, the 4x4x48 is the “must do” event of the year for me.  Run 4 miles, every 4 hours for 48 miles; raise money for ICT SOS.  The role ICT SOS provides in our community is critical.  If you spend time with ICT SOS Executive Director Jennifer White, you’ll hear their passion for preventing human trafficking and providing resources for girls and women rescued.  Human trafficking is one of the absolute worst things happening on planet Earth and my heart breaks for the victims.  I love to support this cause through completing this crazy endurance challenge.

You form a special bonding moment while spending 48 straight hours with others who are sharing the same fatigue and sore muscles.  It takes will and mental toughness; we kept each other encouraged and entertained.  We had visitors join us around the clock throughout all 12 segments of the event, including the dreadful 4am segment on Sunday morning.  Big thanks to all of you who came out!  It was always encouraging to have others join us and some of you for the third straight year!  My 8 year old nephew made it out for the final segment and finished his four miles.  Way to go Jaxon! 

We had 9 run all weekend long and raised over $7000.  It started two years ago when Tony invited me to join him.  We made it 3 last year and hope to make it much bigger next year.  Set a goal to do it next year and train for it…you’ll have a weekend you’ll never forget.  Do hard stuff with others!

As far as the running itself, I felt strong all the way until the end. The overnight segments were always tougher than the daytime ones, between the wind, cold and fatigue.  My two final segments were my fastest.  My average pace was 9 minutes, 48 seconds with my final 4 miles averaging 8:05.  My final mile of the weekend was 7:28 and I felt strong.       

We are still taking donations at:  https://givebutter.com/4x4x48ICTSOS/team-freeze/mattmagnuson

Shout out to all of you who sent a donation!  Thanks a ton!!!!