KEEP RUNNING

Running has always been a part of my fitness routine. As time passes, my competitive desire in the sport has sharpened. Last year, I committed to an intensive training program to improve my mile time. I meticulously recorded my workouts and outcomes, tracking output, heart rate, calories, and more. My regimen included interval training, hill sprints, and high-intensity sessions. Crucially, I incorporated cross-training with weights and rowing. After eight months, my efforts paid off, shaving over a minute from my mile time. Yet, the question remained: how long could I maintain this quicker pace? To find out, I participated in the Dallas Marathon in December 2023. It was a tough lesson; I managed a mid-seven-minute pace for roughly 18 miles before reaching the infamous "wall." At that point, I struggled to find the energy to continue without slowing or walking. Despite this, I wasn't disheartened; I had gathered valuable data and experienced my body's reaction to my pace. Since then, I've been voraciously seeking ways to enhance my performance and conquer that wall. I've consulted with fellow runners about their race-day nutrition and hydration strategies. I'm exploring how my body reacts to different energy gels and drinks. For instance, during the marathon, I used a Sports in Science (SiS) isotonic energy gel, chosen for its stomach-friendliness, though I now realize a caffeine boost might have been beneficial. As I continue training, I'm testing various gels to observe their effects on my performance.

This journey mirrors, in a way, my approach to taking care of our portfolio of wells in the Permian. Our wells in West Texas each possess unique nuances and characteristics. Over time, we've observed that some wells are more prone to bacteria and paraffin buildup than others nearby. We apply various treatments to ensure the well equipment operates smoothly. Despite this, the high H2S content in the formation often leads to issues, commonly causing pinholes in the tubing. However, regular treatments, whether chemical or thermal, help maintain the cleanliness of the system, thereby enhancing the durability of our equipment and the productivity of our wells. Analogous to running gels, we're exploring diverse mechanisms and artificial lift designs with the aim of achieving longer and faster operation. Similarly, in the realm of running, we've benefited from the wisdom of those who've overcome obstacles and discovered effective strategies to push through. I am thankful for this. Just as marathons have instilled in me lessons of endurance and resilience, managing these wells requires no less.