Right on. I would'nt belittle you. Not my style. Read the posts you like, diregard the others and hike on.
I am impressed with your running mileage. Are you planning to wear running shoes for your hike? I ask this because I got hooked on running shoes for backpacking and now I cannot stand to wear boots anymore. I have some issues with wet feet in subfreezing temps (yes it can rain before it freezes), but I guess I am so hooked on the running shoe comfort that I tolerate it. Good luck on your hike. If it was me I would hope there was some bushwhackin'. I love it.