Ultras: A Snapshot

The sun beats down on Mike Tselentis as he passes the aid station, grabs two small pieces of watermelon and heads back onto the course at Gibson Ranch.

He has been running for six hours, his 71 year old body showing few signs of strain as the temperature climbs above 90 degrees and the clock ticks past 1 p.m. at this 24-hour endurance run.

How does he feel?

"It's too early to tell," he says.

Nearly 18 hours later, it's too late to care.

Who is Tim Twietmeyer?

Tim Twietmeyer works hard to maintain and nurture his relationships - with his wife, his children, his colleagues and the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run.

The four-time champion and 15-time participant of the 24-year-old race will defend his title Saturday, but unlike other runners of his caliber, he says his primary motivation is not to win.

Running the Sierra in the Winter

Tim Twietmeyer craved pancakes, eggs and bacon, with a milkshake on the side. Bill Finkbeiner looked forward to anything but more Gu and Clif bars. And Dean Karnazes dreamed of a hot tub and a beer.

Considering what they had just accomplished, how could anyone say no?