I've been anticipating this post for a long time. Long before I ever got hurt. It's finally time to make the proclamation and change the title of this blog.
I'm going to Memphis, God willing, to run the St. Jude Memphis Marathon. A year ago Joe and I had talked of keeping our annual early December tradition alive. This will be year three. Tecemseh (IN) in 2006, Huntsville (AL) in 2007, now Memphis (TN) in 2008. (and trust me I've already scouted out possibilities for 2009.)
I've mentioned the plan, the physical therapy, the orthotics; now its time to draw the line in the sand. Thanks to my uber supportive wife. Memphis is on the books. That was my birthday present a few weeks back. Many probably already suspected it was.
Lisa is so supportive of my goal to run 50 states. She probably wants it for me as much as I want it for myself. I've learned to be careful what I mention around her. Give her an inkling of an idea, be it a trip, a party, whatever, and in no time flat she's made all the necessary arrangements. She sent in my registration, booked my hotel and made my flight reservations. All I have to do is show up. And run.
I'm going to stick with my low mileage plan to have the highest assurance possible of getting to the starting line. So this time around there won't be any speedwork, not that there ever was much, and there won't be many sub 8:00 miles, but it will sure be sweet crossing that finish line in Memphis.
How does "Twelve Down - Training for Tennessee" sound?
Then I'm running in Memphis;
Was running with my feet ten feet off of Beale.
Running in Memphis.
But do I really feel the way I feel?
* a little creative license taken
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Sunday, July 27, 2008
8-10-20
First off, let me say how much appreciate all the comments and concerns on my comeback. It is very cool to know that there is this great community of people out there keeping tabs on the progress. I really am trying to play this round of training smart and cautious.
The schedule I've chosen is based on the schedule for my first marathon back in 2004. I prepared for that one with a local running group. The buildup assumed a limited base and no prior marathon experience. I figured starting back at "square one" was a wise idea considering the three months off and increased likelihood of reinjury if I took things too fast. As added assurance I took the original plan at 5 days a week and modified it to only 4 days a week. This modification will keep my weekly mileage on the low side throughout the cycle. My highest mileage week will only be 34 miles. Low mileage by any traditional plan, but the goal here is to finish state 13 healthy and able to run 37 more some time in the future.
I've had my heart set on running the Memphis St Jude Marathon in December. Clearance to run again in June coincided perfectly with the 26 week beginner plan to get me there. When I got started I had no idea if I would get there and it's still not guaranteed, but I had to have a plan. When it comes to running, I am a stickler for the plan. Once I've committed it to paper I do everything in my power to get there.
This week, week 8 of the plan, was somewhat of a milestone week. I ran a long run of 10 miles for the first time and had weekly mileage of 20! I'm happy to report that the 10 miler went smoothly and my leg actually feels better than it has in awhile (knock on wood!).
I ran Jesse's Loop with the CA Cruisers. We met at Hillcrest Park and then ran all over God's green acre, Fullerton. I used an 8:1 run:walk technique. That pace kept me in the middle group. Thankfully the lead group would stop periodically to regroup. This route has many twists and turns. We ran on roads, trails, through a tunnel, down an abandoned railway, and around a lake. Finally returning to the park. I used my watch only to track the running and walking segments.
The rest of the week:
M - upper body workout with the personal trainer
T - 4 miles - Bonelli picnic loop 2x +
W - Yoga
H - upper body work and 3 miles on the equestrian trail in VV.
F - Rest
S- 10 miles - Jesse's Loop
S - 3 miles - out the front door for 15 minutes and back again
Total miles = 20.
Later today I will hit the gym again. Tomorrow the personal trainer will give my legs a work out. I'm still seeing the physical therapists but have cut that down to once a week after consulting with them on my progress. The next few weeks will alternate between step back weeks and slowly ramping things up. Let's see how it goes.
The schedule I've chosen is based on the schedule for my first marathon back in 2004. I prepared for that one with a local running group. The buildup assumed a limited base and no prior marathon experience. I figured starting back at "square one" was a wise idea considering the three months off and increased likelihood of reinjury if I took things too fast. As added assurance I took the original plan at 5 days a week and modified it to only 4 days a week. This modification will keep my weekly mileage on the low side throughout the cycle. My highest mileage week will only be 34 miles. Low mileage by any traditional plan, but the goal here is to finish state 13 healthy and able to run 37 more some time in the future.
I've had my heart set on running the Memphis St Jude Marathon in December. Clearance to run again in June coincided perfectly with the 26 week beginner plan to get me there. When I got started I had no idea if I would get there and it's still not guaranteed, but I had to have a plan. When it comes to running, I am a stickler for the plan. Once I've committed it to paper I do everything in my power to get there.
This week, week 8 of the plan, was somewhat of a milestone week. I ran a long run of 10 miles for the first time and had weekly mileage of 20! I'm happy to report that the 10 miler went smoothly and my leg actually feels better than it has in awhile (knock on wood!).
I ran Jesse's Loop with the CA Cruisers. We met at Hillcrest Park and then ran all over God's green acre, Fullerton. I used an 8:1 run:walk technique. That pace kept me in the middle group. Thankfully the lead group would stop periodically to regroup. This route has many twists and turns. We ran on roads, trails, through a tunnel, down an abandoned railway, and around a lake. Finally returning to the park. I used my watch only to track the running and walking segments.
The rest of the week:
M - upper body workout with the personal trainer
T - 4 miles - Bonelli picnic loop 2x +
W - Yoga
H - upper body work and 3 miles on the equestrian trail in VV.
F - Rest
S- 10 miles - Jesse's Loop
S - 3 miles - out the front door for 15 minutes and back again
Total miles = 20.
Later today I will hit the gym again. Tomorrow the personal trainer will give my legs a work out. I'm still seeing the physical therapists but have cut that down to once a week after consulting with them on my progress. The next few weeks will alternate between step back weeks and slowly ramping things up. Let's see how it goes.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Rolling Along
Last week went off pretty much without a hitch as far as running goes. I stuck to the schedule pretty much as written. This was my third week with four runs and I still haven't broken 20 miles for the week. I did move Tuesday's 3 miler to Wednesday to accommodate Mexican food with friends on Tuesday.
The shin continues to hold up. There is sometimes a soreness in the calf muscle near the bone. It is less severe than before and somewhat lower on the leg. It comes and goes. I'm attributing many of the little aches and pains to re-entry into the running mode. The sensation, I don't want to call it a pain, comes on during the jumping exercises I do at the physical therapy as well. They seem to be somewhat at a loss on how to make it go away completely. I will continue to run, carefully and wisely. But I do have to admit that the intermittent aches and pains are wearing on me mentally. Whatever!
The week went down like this:
Wed - 3 miles Via Verde equestrian trail (after Yoga class)
Thurs - 3 miles on my part of my old standard 5 mile loop on the Bonelli trails - that run was fun but boy was I slow (have I said this before, 8-))
Sat - 9 miles over on the Santa Fe Dam River Trail - The CA Cruiser ran the Newport Back Bay. That run is 11+ miles and I didn't want to push things. I'm sure they enjoyed a nicer view. I did see several other runners, tons of cyclists and even 3 guys on roller blades. I thought those went out in the 80's. I guess not.
Sun- 3 miles on the equestrian trail, again.
Grand total 18 miles for the week. On tap next week I finally break the double digit barrier for a long run and hit 20 miles for the week, for the first time since February. Unbelievable.
The shin continues to hold up. There is sometimes a soreness in the calf muscle near the bone. It is less severe than before and somewhat lower on the leg. It comes and goes. I'm attributing many of the little aches and pains to re-entry into the running mode. The sensation, I don't want to call it a pain, comes on during the jumping exercises I do at the physical therapy as well. They seem to be somewhat at a loss on how to make it go away completely. I will continue to run, carefully and wisely. But I do have to admit that the intermittent aches and pains are wearing on me mentally. Whatever!
The week went down like this:
Wed - 3 miles Via Verde equestrian trail (after Yoga class)
Thurs - 3 miles on my part of my old standard 5 mile loop on the Bonelli trails - that run was fun but boy was I slow (have I said this before, 8-))
Sat - 9 miles over on the Santa Fe Dam River Trail - The CA Cruiser ran the Newport Back Bay. That run is 11+ miles and I didn't want to push things. I'm sure they enjoyed a nicer view. I did see several other runners, tons of cyclists and even 3 guys on roller blades. I thought those went out in the 80's. I guess not.
Sun- 3 miles on the equestrian trail, again.
Grand total 18 miles for the week. On tap next week I finally break the double digit barrier for a long run and hit 20 miles for the week, for the first time since February. Unbelievable.
Monday, July 14, 2008
The Big Question
After not running for nearly three months and anticipating being released to run again I wondered to myself and aloud to some friends "What if I don't love it any more?" It had me a little worried that I would even have the thought.
It has been difficult to explain to others how running 5 days a week and multiple marathons was fun. I can't really explain it to myself. I'm not an athlete, but running was something I enjoyed. After the injury the first week or so was really difficult. After a while though, I got used to not running. I guess that's what scared me into thinking I wouldn't enjoy it any more.
I still think about the big question. Sunday evening I headed over to Bonelli for an easy 3 miler. I headed out on what I call the Cottontail Trail a little after 8:00 p.m.
The sun had officially set while I was running but there was still plenty of light to navigate by. I was sharing the trail with no one but the namesake bunnies. I was at ease, enjoying the trail, the encroaching darkness, the cooling evening breeze, and the lemony smell of the eucalyptus trees when I realized I had the answer to the question.
I do still love it.
It has been difficult to explain to others how running 5 days a week and multiple marathons was fun. I can't really explain it to myself. I'm not an athlete, but running was something I enjoyed. After the injury the first week or so was really difficult. After a while though, I got used to not running. I guess that's what scared me into thinking I wouldn't enjoy it any more.
I still think about the big question. Sunday evening I headed over to Bonelli for an easy 3 miler. I headed out on what I call the Cottontail Trail a little after 8:00 p.m.
The sun had officially set while I was running but there was still plenty of light to navigate by. I was sharing the trail with no one but the namesake bunnies. I was at ease, enjoying the trail, the encroaching darkness, the cooling evening breeze, and the lemony smell of the eucalyptus trees when I realized I had the answer to the question.
I do still love it.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Out with A Trail Run
Thursday night I entered my age as 46 on a race entry for the very last time possible. I had decided to take part in the Summer Trail Run Series at Peters Canyon in the OC. This is a three race series, 5 miles each. I had wanted to do this series last year but didn’t and I can’t really remember why not. I had run Peters Canyon before with the Cruisers. It is a small, tame wilderness area tucked in among typical Southern California subdivisions. I figured it was a gentle entry back into trail running and the 5 mile distance wasn’t pushing the mileage boundaries too much.
I arrived early. The next car to park was driven by someone I recognized. It was smsmh and tc, wife and child of the amazing hip. It turns out Jeff was going to be there as well but was arriving separately and parked in another lot. It was fun to meet little tc in person. He seems to be a pretty happy guy. At the registration area, Jeff found me. It was good to see him and catch up a little bit. Jeff seems to know everyone so our visit was much too short. It will be while before we’ll be able to share a run again. Unbelievably the last time we’d run together was August 2006.
There were 15 CA Cruisers there for the event. I know many abhor the idea of just training through, but that was really my only intent at this race I just wanted to get in a solid 5 miles and ease back into the trails. I lined up about mid-way in the pack.
The race starts out on a gravel path at Cedar Grove Park in Tustin and makes its way over to Peters Canyon. About a mile into the race we head up the hills through the eucalyptus grove. The trail runs pretty much straight along the ridge, rolling up and down. I felt fine, but needed to walk, along with many others, up a couple of the hills. Although it was significantly cooler in Orange County compared to my home in Los Angeles County 30 miles to the north, it was plenty warm on the hills.
At the turn around point we descended into the canyon proper and ran into a really nice cool breeze on a gentle down slope all the way back. Running through this section felt really good. Although I couldn’t muster any real speed, I was able to just maintain a solid, but slow, consistent pace. My time for the five miles was 49:05. Jeff on the other hand who had planned on taking it easy finished in a blistering 34:03, 19th overall. Now you see why we won’t be running together for a while.
One fun thing about this series is the BBQ afterward. We hung out over burgers, chicken and the biggest bag of chips ever. None of the Cruisers won anything in the raffle.
I was cool with my sub 50:00 finishing time. My 9:50 pace was right on for a training run. Then I realized that my 50 State inspiration, the 74 year old Dr. John, finished in 44:24. I got schooled by a man 25 years my senior! I tried to tell myself that he was racing while I was just running. It didn’t really help. I can’t recall every losing a race to him. It was a humbling experience. Slow (just not so slow) and steady is the only way back. Race #3 in the series is August 7 and I’ll be gunning for Dr. John (so much for respecting your elders). I may not catch him but I expect to narrow the gap. Catching Jeff on the other hand is going to take something akin to a miracle.
Today, my first day on the planet as a 47 year old, was a complete rest day. No running and no gym. My wife got me a really cool present. I’ll have to tell you all about that one in another post. I hope all your Saturday long runs or races go well.
I arrived early. The next car to park was driven by someone I recognized. It was smsmh and tc, wife and child of the amazing hip. It turns out Jeff was going to be there as well but was arriving separately and parked in another lot. It was fun to meet little tc in person. He seems to be a pretty happy guy. At the registration area, Jeff found me. It was good to see him and catch up a little bit. Jeff seems to know everyone so our visit was much too short. It will be while before we’ll be able to share a run again. Unbelievably the last time we’d run together was August 2006.
There were 15 CA Cruisers there for the event. I know many abhor the idea of just training through, but that was really my only intent at this race I just wanted to get in a solid 5 miles and ease back into the trails. I lined up about mid-way in the pack.
The race starts out on a gravel path at Cedar Grove Park in Tustin and makes its way over to Peters Canyon. About a mile into the race we head up the hills through the eucalyptus grove. The trail runs pretty much straight along the ridge, rolling up and down. I felt fine, but needed to walk, along with many others, up a couple of the hills. Although it was significantly cooler in Orange County compared to my home in Los Angeles County 30 miles to the north, it was plenty warm on the hills.
At the turn around point we descended into the canyon proper and ran into a really nice cool breeze on a gentle down slope all the way back. Running through this section felt really good. Although I couldn’t muster any real speed, I was able to just maintain a solid, but slow, consistent pace. My time for the five miles was 49:05. Jeff on the other hand who had planned on taking it easy finished in a blistering 34:03, 19th overall. Now you see why we won’t be running together for a while.
One fun thing about this series is the BBQ afterward. We hung out over burgers, chicken and the biggest bag of chips ever. None of the Cruisers won anything in the raffle.
I was cool with my sub 50:00 finishing time. My 9:50 pace was right on for a training run. Then I realized that my 50 State inspiration, the 74 year old Dr. John, finished in 44:24. I got schooled by a man 25 years my senior! I tried to tell myself that he was racing while I was just running. It didn’t really help. I can’t recall every losing a race to him. It was a humbling experience. Slow (just not so slow) and steady is the only way back. Race #3 in the series is August 7 and I’ll be gunning for Dr. John (so much for respecting your elders). I may not catch him but I expect to narrow the gap. Catching Jeff on the other hand is going to take something akin to a miracle.
Today, my first day on the planet as a 47 year old, was a complete rest day. No running and no gym. My wife got me a really cool present. I’ll have to tell you all about that one in another post. I hope all your Saturday long runs or races go well.
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Monday, July 07, 2008
Baby Steps
Every week I add just a little bit more.
Since June 2 I've run only three days a week. Two weeks ago I finally broke into double digit mileage at 13.5. This week I added an extra day of running for a total of 16.2 miles in 4 days. The days I wasn't running I was at the gym.
I sat down on Saturday and worked out a training plan for assuming that everything will work out for Memphis. I've kept it to 4 days a week for the remaining 22 weeks. I think it is probably in the best interest of longevity to keep it easy, at least for the time being. Four days a week and the relatively low weekly mileage that goes with it won't get me any PR's or a BQ, but I think it is the only way right now that I can even hope to knock off another state.
I also looked through the local race calendar and found some trail runs and half marathons that fit nicely into the schedule. Most of them are races that have just not fit in before. So I'm pretty happy with the plan.
On Saturday I went down to Yorba Linda and met up with the Cruisers for the first time in like forever. It was really good to see everyone and to run the old Santa Ana Bike Path. I ran with Jay for 6 continuous miles. I felt pretty good but was more than ready to stop when the time came. The iced latte afterward sure went down smoothly.
Since June 2 I've run only three days a week. Two weeks ago I finally broke into double digit mileage at 13.5. This week I added an extra day of running for a total of 16.2 miles in 4 days. The days I wasn't running I was at the gym.
I sat down on Saturday and worked out a training plan for assuming that everything will work out for Memphis. I've kept it to 4 days a week for the remaining 22 weeks. I think it is probably in the best interest of longevity to keep it easy, at least for the time being. Four days a week and the relatively low weekly mileage that goes with it won't get me any PR's or a BQ, but I think it is the only way right now that I can even hope to knock off another state.
I also looked through the local race calendar and found some trail runs and half marathons that fit nicely into the schedule. Most of them are races that have just not fit in before. So I'm pretty happy with the plan.
On Saturday I went down to Yorba Linda and met up with the Cruisers for the first time in like forever. It was really good to see everyone and to run the old Santa Ana Bike Path. I ran with Jay for 6 continuous miles. I felt pretty good but was more than ready to stop when the time came. The iced latte afterward sure went down smoothly.
Friday, July 04, 2008
Those Dreams Have Remained
This morning I pinned a race bib to my shirt and waited for the sound of the air horn. I was off and running my first race in four months.
Tyler and I drove down to Huntington Beach for the Surf City Run 5K. Back in 2003 this was my first race ever. I had no idea what I was doing at the time. I'd been running for a month on my own and for a week with the Snail's Pace Running Group. I was using an 8:1 run:walk sequence at the time. I'd read Galloway's book at the beginning of June. I took walk breaks in the race. I've never done that since that race. My time was 34:27 back then.
Surf City seemed like a fitting return to racing since I just got restarted in June, the same weekend I initially started running in 2003. My only real goal was to have fun and finish somewhere south of 30 minutes. Tyler hasn't been running much lately so his plan was to stick with me.
The beginning of the race was the usual crowding and jockeying for position. We probably placed ourselves a little further back than necessary. It took us just over 30 seconds to cross the starting line. The only real issue was walkers, 4 abreast, in the center of the road, too far up front. We've all fallen victim to them and they have every right to be on the course, but a little etiquette would go a long way. Tyler and I managed to stick together even with the weaving and bobbing.
We hit the first mile in 8:54 (my watch). That was a pleasant surprise. Not exactly Speedy Gonzalez but faster than any of my recent runs would have predicted. I just kept motoring along. Tyler was consistently just off to my right shoulder. At the halfway point, Tyler faded a step or two back. I couldn't see him out of the corner of my eye any longer. I just keep truckin' along. We had decided ahead of time to each run the best race we could.
I hit the 2 mile mark in 8:36. I was impressed with that. About that time I started getting the tingling feeling in my hands and on the top of my head that lets me know that I'm pushing a little. I kept moving forward as smoothly as possible.
The finish line is around a left turn. As I approached I could hear the announcer calling off the times and doing his best to get people to finish in 27:00 minutes. I thought - No way - but I stayed calmed pushed it a little and made it in at 27:10 or so official. The last 1.1 was at 9:15 for a final time by my watch of 26:45 - a very satisfying return to running/racing. Tyler came in about 1:30 after me.
Now I'm off to clean up the doggie doo doo and sweep the back porch. We're hosting about 25 friends for a July 4th swim party and barbecue. Feel free to stop by, the more the merrier.
note: the post title is a little snippet from the Welcome Back Kotter theme song.
Tyler and I drove down to Huntington Beach for the Surf City Run 5K. Back in 2003 this was my first race ever. I had no idea what I was doing at the time. I'd been running for a month on my own and for a week with the Snail's Pace Running Group. I was using an 8:1 run:walk sequence at the time. I'd read Galloway's book at the beginning of June. I took walk breaks in the race. I've never done that since that race. My time was 34:27 back then.
Surf City seemed like a fitting return to racing since I just got restarted in June, the same weekend I initially started running in 2003. My only real goal was to have fun and finish somewhere south of 30 minutes. Tyler hasn't been running much lately so his plan was to stick with me.
The beginning of the race was the usual crowding and jockeying for position. We probably placed ourselves a little further back than necessary. It took us just over 30 seconds to cross the starting line. The only real issue was walkers, 4 abreast, in the center of the road, too far up front. We've all fallen victim to them and they have every right to be on the course, but a little etiquette would go a long way. Tyler and I managed to stick together even with the weaving and bobbing.
We hit the first mile in 8:54 (my watch). That was a pleasant surprise. Not exactly Speedy Gonzalez but faster than any of my recent runs would have predicted. I just kept motoring along. Tyler was consistently just off to my right shoulder. At the halfway point, Tyler faded a step or two back. I couldn't see him out of the corner of my eye any longer. I just keep truckin' along. We had decided ahead of time to each run the best race we could.
I hit the 2 mile mark in 8:36. I was impressed with that. About that time I started getting the tingling feeling in my hands and on the top of my head that lets me know that I'm pushing a little. I kept moving forward as smoothly as possible.
The finish line is around a left turn. As I approached I could hear the announcer calling off the times and doing his best to get people to finish in 27:00 minutes. I thought - No way - but I stayed calmed pushed it a little and made it in at 27:10 or so official. The last 1.1 was at 9:15 for a final time by my watch of 26:45 - a very satisfying return to running/racing. Tyler came in about 1:30 after me.
Now I'm off to clean up the doggie doo doo and sweep the back porch. We're hosting about 25 friends for a July 4th swim party and barbecue. Feel free to stop by, the more the merrier.
note: the post title is a little snippet from the Welcome Back Kotter theme song.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Decrepit Peacock
I wanted to get in a three mile run tonight and couldn't decide if it was better to do it before or after the yoga class. Yoga started at 8:00. By the time I got around to making a decision I really didn't have enough time to go over to the equestrian trail for a run, so I opted for a 2 miler on the treadmill at the gym which gave me a couple of minutes to relax before the yoga session.
I'd never tried yoga before, but it has been recommended by several friends and runners as a good way to stretch out the muscles. Since I tend to be very tight, especially in the ankles and hips, I figured it couldn't hurt. The class is on Wednesday evening, which has been a off day from running so far and I'm not taking an on campus class this summer.
Another important factor for me is that the class was being taught by a guy. I figured that way I wouldn't be the only other guy the class. The classes I've seen going on at the gym tend to be heavily populated by the female gender. There ended up being about 5 guys and 30 women. I wasn't very graceful or able to do everything with the nice long lines, but the instructor was good at allowing us to do each pose to the best of our ability. Learning the vocabulary was a challenge. Like everything it will get easier with practice.
I need to learn about trade theory in the Czech Republic before tomorrow at midnight, so if you have any insight on that particular subject feel free to leave a comment. A half page paragraph on both a government intervention theory and a natural trade theory will do nicely. Thanks!
I'd never tried yoga before, but it has been recommended by several friends and runners as a good way to stretch out the muscles. Since I tend to be very tight, especially in the ankles and hips, I figured it couldn't hurt. The class is on Wednesday evening, which has been a off day from running so far and I'm not taking an on campus class this summer.
Another important factor for me is that the class was being taught by a guy. I figured that way I wouldn't be the only other guy the class. The classes I've seen going on at the gym tend to be heavily populated by the female gender. There ended up being about 5 guys and 30 women. I wasn't very graceful or able to do everything with the nice long lines, but the instructor was good at allowing us to do each pose to the best of our ability. Learning the vocabulary was a challenge. Like everything it will get easier with practice.
I need to learn about trade theory in the Czech Republic before tomorrow at midnight, so if you have any insight on that particular subject feel free to leave a comment. A half page paragraph on both a government intervention theory and a natural trade theory will do nicely. Thanks!
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Lunge, Step Down and Roll
I endured a killer leg workout with my personal trainer on Monday night. Among other things I endured 20x2 double pump lunges with 20 pounds of weights in my hands. That alone just about kicked my butt but there was much more.
Tuesday I had an appointment with the physical therapist. They were trying to squeeze 5 days worth of appointments into 4 so I was able to get in about an hour earlier than normal this morning and ended up having the PT, an intern and an aide all to myself. After the previous nights lunges I opted out of them today. They did tell me that I was doing the step down picture perfectly and wished they could have taped them to show other clients how to do it right. I'd better be getting pretty good at them. I've been doing them 2 to 3 days a week for the last couple of months.
Tonight I went out for a 4.5 mile run. Since I'm on the comeback trail I'm running a lot of the old routes I used to run back in 2003 when I started this crazy little adventure. My times now are about equivalent to then, too. Afterward I used the new foam roller. Boy were my quads screaming. My wife and son can't quite figure out how a big round piece of styrofoam would do anybody any good and get quite the kick out of watching me roll around the floor.
Last week at the gym I realized that there is a yoga class on Wednesday at 8:00 I'm going to give it a try tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes.
Two more days until a long weekend! (Not that I'm counting ;-0)
Tuesday I had an appointment with the physical therapist. They were trying to squeeze 5 days worth of appointments into 4 so I was able to get in about an hour earlier than normal this morning and ended up having the PT, an intern and an aide all to myself. After the previous nights lunges I opted out of them today. They did tell me that I was doing the step down picture perfectly and wished they could have taped them to show other clients how to do it right. I'd better be getting pretty good at them. I've been doing them 2 to 3 days a week for the last couple of months.
Tonight I went out for a 4.5 mile run. Since I'm on the comeback trail I'm running a lot of the old routes I used to run back in 2003 when I started this crazy little adventure. My times now are about equivalent to then, too. Afterward I used the new foam roller. Boy were my quads screaming. My wife and son can't quite figure out how a big round piece of styrofoam would do anybody any good and get quite the kick out of watching me roll around the floor.
Last week at the gym I realized that there is a yoga class on Wednesday at 8:00 I'm going to give it a try tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes.
Two more days until a long weekend! (Not that I'm counting ;-0)
Saturday, June 28, 2008
The Slow Build
When I last posted I was threatening to get up early the next morning to get my 2.5 mile run in. I am happy to report that I did get up and got it done before work. Go me! Later that day the physical therapist had me run a mile on the t-mill. I haven't run on the t-mill since then, June 11. It has been all outside running for me. I am a happy man.
I have been taking it very, very slow and easy getting back into this. I seriously cannot figure out how I had the time to run, let alone blog, before the injury. Now that all the dust has settled from the bathroom remodel (I'll get pix ups someday, promise), graduation and visiting relatives, I think I can find a better balance. Or maybe I'll just ignore everything and go running!
I was able to start running the first week of June as planned. My weekly mileage totals have been low, low, low.
June 2-8 4.5 miles
June 9-15 7.1 miles
June 16-22 8.5 miles
I've even made it back to Bonelli but have limited myself to the paved picnic loop and other roads. I was able to do a fun 3.6 miler one day while my sisters and a niece walked in the opposite direction. We saw each other multiple times as I ran the loop twice for the one loop walking. At that point it was my longest run and I did it using a 4:1 run:walk ratio.
This week at physical therapy the doc told me he wanted me to ramp things up considerably to see how my leg would hold up. I didn't want to go too crazy but I did get in three pretty good runs.
Tues: 3 miles on the equestrian trail in Via Verde
Thurs: 4 miles on Raging Waters Dr and "cottontail trail" in Bonelli
Sat: 6.5 miles on Robert's Loop
I did today's long run with a 6:1 run:walk ratio. My pace has been hovering at 10:00 plus. Slow, considering where I was before the injury, but it feels good to be running. I've definitely lost some aerobic capacity and there's a lot more bounce around the middle and more chafing between the legs than there used to be. The training buildup should help both areas.
I am also the proud owner of a new "Stick" and a foam roller. I've added these to my arsenal to help fend off any future setbacks. Stretching is still an issue for me, but I'm making improvements.
I have been taking it very, very slow and easy getting back into this. I seriously cannot figure out how I had the time to run, let alone blog, before the injury. Now that all the dust has settled from the bathroom remodel (I'll get pix ups someday, promise), graduation and visiting relatives, I think I can find a better balance. Or maybe I'll just ignore everything and go running!
I was able to start running the first week of June as planned. My weekly mileage totals have been low, low, low.
June 2-8 4.5 miles
June 9-15 7.1 miles
June 16-22 8.5 miles
I've even made it back to Bonelli but have limited myself to the paved picnic loop and other roads. I was able to do a fun 3.6 miler one day while my sisters and a niece walked in the opposite direction. We saw each other multiple times as I ran the loop twice for the one loop walking. At that point it was my longest run and I did it using a 4:1 run:walk ratio.
This week at physical therapy the doc told me he wanted me to ramp things up considerably to see how my leg would hold up. I didn't want to go too crazy but I did get in three pretty good runs.
Tues: 3 miles on the equestrian trail in Via Verde
Thurs: 4 miles on Raging Waters Dr and "cottontail trail" in Bonelli
Sat: 6.5 miles on Robert's Loop
I did today's long run with a 6:1 run:walk ratio. My pace has been hovering at 10:00 plus. Slow, considering where I was before the injury, but it feels good to be running. I've definitely lost some aerobic capacity and there's a lot more bounce around the middle and more chafing between the legs than there used to be. The training buildup should help both areas.
I am also the proud owner of a new "Stick" and a foam roller. I've added these to my arsenal to help fend off any future setbacks. Stretching is still an issue for me, but I'm making improvements.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
The Lure of an Unpainted Door
I had all the best intentions. It was only a measly 2.5 miles.
When I got home from work I really had planned on going for my second "real" run. The last 0.5% of the bathroom project, the unpainted door, called out. I just could not resist the need to have it painted before my brother and his wife showed up later that evening.
I was able to paint the outside before Lisa arrived home with the groceries. Then my focus switched to preparing my now world famous pasta puttanesca for my parents (this time with chicken only). Lisa took over with the brush while I slaved over the stove. After dinner I finished the last few strokes on the back of the door.
I sat around chatting with my parents, waiting for the pasta to digest a little before taking off. Just as I was about to change into my running clothes, my brother pulled into the driveway. We sat around and talked some more. I heated up the leftover puttanesca that had just gone into the refrigerator. We worked on the details for them to see a taping of the Price is Right in the morning.
Before I knew it the time was well past 10:00 and I still needed to study for my final exam in Business 101 on Wednesday evening. I didn't really give it the attention it needed but I will have some time tomorrow to look over my notes a time or two.
I decided to knock out a quick post. If I didn't run at least I could blog. I may attempt to get up early and knock out the 2.5 miles as the sun rises.
Stay tuned.
When I got home from work I really had planned on going for my second "real" run. The last 0.5% of the bathroom project, the unpainted door, called out. I just could not resist the need to have it painted before my brother and his wife showed up later that evening.
I was able to paint the outside before Lisa arrived home with the groceries. Then my focus switched to preparing my now world famous pasta puttanesca for my parents (this time with chicken only). Lisa took over with the brush while I slaved over the stove. After dinner I finished the last few strokes on the back of the door.
I sat around chatting with my parents, waiting for the pasta to digest a little before taking off. Just as I was about to change into my running clothes, my brother pulled into the driveway. We sat around and talked some more. I heated up the leftover puttanesca that had just gone into the refrigerator. We worked on the details for them to see a taping of the Price is Right in the morning.
Before I knew it the time was well past 10:00 and I still needed to study for my final exam in Business 101 on Wednesday evening. I didn't really give it the attention it needed but I will have some time tomorrow to look over my notes a time or two.
I decided to knock out a quick post. If I didn't run at least I could blog. I may attempt to get up early and knock out the 2.5 miles as the sun rises.
Stay tuned.
8 Minutes
Last Monday, June 2, I was allowed to run on the treadmill at my physical therapy appointment. It was only 8 minutes, but it felt good. I was happy. June 2 puts me right on schedule for a completely new buildup for that December marathon and 13th state I was planning on.
At my Thursday appointment I got to run for a complete mile, uninterrupted. The pace was slow, 10:00 per mile, but I was running. I land too hard. I am a pretty noisy runner and even more so on a treadmill. They want me to keep my lower abs tight and to lengthen my stride a bit. I can get it done when they are standing there reminding and coaching me. I'm not so sure how it will go when I have to do it on my own.
The doc gave me permission to go for a short run on my own over the weekend as long as I stayed off concrete. That wasn't a problem for me.
We went got up early (4:00) Saturday morning to take my parents to see the launching of the hot air balloons down in Temecula at 6:00 a.m. My parents came in from OH on Tuesday. My brother and sisters and assorted nieces begin arriving today. I spent most of Sunday doing all the final detail work on the bathroom remodel so it was 8:00 p.m. before I got out there for my run.
I headed over to the trusty old equestrian path in Via Verde. I hadn't forgotten how to run. I was afraid that I might. I was pretty slow but I covered 2.5 miles. This was a little more than the doc had wanted but I couldn't let myself turn around until I hit a landmark (stop sign). Since I had more than doubled my mileage with that run, he didn't let me run on the treadmill yesterday at PT, but told me to run again outside on Tuesday. That was an agreeable trade off to me.
I'm woefully behind on keeping up with all of you, but now that the bathroom renovation is 99.5% complete, and with graduation festivities winding down this week and house guests returning home things should start to get back to a more normal state and I will be a runner and a blogger once again.
Thanks for waiting for me.
At my Thursday appointment I got to run for a complete mile, uninterrupted. The pace was slow, 10:00 per mile, but I was running. I land too hard. I am a pretty noisy runner and even more so on a treadmill. They want me to keep my lower abs tight and to lengthen my stride a bit. I can get it done when they are standing there reminding and coaching me. I'm not so sure how it will go when I have to do it on my own.
The doc gave me permission to go for a short run on my own over the weekend as long as I stayed off concrete. That wasn't a problem for me.
We went got up early (4:00) Saturday morning to take my parents to see the launching of the hot air balloons down in Temecula at 6:00 a.m. My parents came in from OH on Tuesday. My brother and sisters and assorted nieces begin arriving today. I spent most of Sunday doing all the final detail work on the bathroom remodel so it was 8:00 p.m. before I got out there for my run.
I headed over to the trusty old equestrian path in Via Verde. I hadn't forgotten how to run. I was afraid that I might. I was pretty slow but I covered 2.5 miles. This was a little more than the doc had wanted but I couldn't let myself turn around until I hit a landmark (stop sign). Since I had more than doubled my mileage with that run, he didn't let me run on the treadmill yesterday at PT, but told me to run again outside on Tuesday. That was an agreeable trade off to me.
I'm woefully behind on keeping up with all of you, but now that the bathroom renovation is 99.5% complete, and with graduation festivities winding down this week and house guests returning home things should start to get back to a more normal state and I will be a runner and a blogger once again.
Thanks for waiting for me.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Nine Weeks
Nine weeks since I last took a single step running. I'm still healing from the stress fracture to my right tibia. I have my good days and bad days. I haven't blogged not because I haven't wanted to, but because I just haven't found the time. I honestly sometimes can't figure out how I ever found time to run in the first place. Life has been so busy. I really do miss keeping up with all the super people I've met through blogging and running. I think the fact that I've unintentionally cut my ties with you all bums me out even more than not running has. I dislike being a fair weather friend, but I am afraid that that is the way it goes.
So what have I missed:
Catalina Marathon, March 15, 2008 - DNS
Big Sur Marathon, April 27, 2008 - DNS
This weekend I missed the Malibu Creek Trail Challenge, a race I've run twice before in 2005 and 2007. So to keep the odd year thing going, I guess missing it this year isn't so bad.
I'm super bummed that I will have to sit out the Fontana Days Half Marathon this year as well. I've run it three years straight and had intended on keeping my streak alive. Back in December I had hoped to run Rock and Roll San Diego with my oldest son, but stress fractures for both of us have necessitated a reschedule.
The good:
I was released by the doctor that diagnosed the stress fracture to begin physical therapy. He also equipped me with a pair of orthotics on May 1. Working with the physical therapist has been very good. The pain in my tibia has subsided considerably. I've found out just how weak I truly am when it comes to some basic motions. All the work with him should set me up well for a great come back eventually. The original doc says I can start walking longer distances with the orthotics and left it up to the PT to release me to run. We haven’t set a firm date, but I’m really hoping to be running again by June 1. I've been going to the gym and riding the stationary bike up to 40 minutes at a time and I’ve been working with my personal trainer twice a week including a leg workout every other time with him. I've been getting in some exercise but nothing really replaces the feeling of being out on the streets and trails under your own power. All in due time, I suppose.
I did get to go to Big Sur to support my running group and my son, who ran a leg of the marathon relay. He had leg 2 and decided to run leg 3 up and over Hurricane Point as well. I had a good time shouting and ringing a cow bell near the finish line. A highlight of the trip was dinner with Michelle, Eric, Dori and Donald.
The one thing that has been keeping me insanely busy lately, is a complete bathroom remodel. We had someone replace the pink 1958 bath tub for a new white model and will have someone else install new can lights and a separate switch for the fan, but the rest has fallen on me with help from my wife. I've spent the last several weekends from sun up to sun down installing backer board and tiling the tub enclosure. The garage is full of tile for the floor, new cabinets, a new toilet, lights, towel bars, etc. I've got to finish before June 3 when relatives start arriving from out of state for our youngest son's high school graduation. From this perspective, not running is a good thing.
I took some time today to make lunch for my wife and mother-in-law for Mother's Day. I made Pasta Puttenesca with shrimp and scallops (with an extra one of chicken for my son and sister-in-law). Salad and warm bread rounded out the meal. Then I made a lemon bundt cake and mixed berry sauce with vanilla ice cream for desert. It was all pretty darn good, if I say so myself.
The future:
It looks more and more like my only marathon this year might be Memphis in Tennessee with Joe and whoever else decides to join us. I'm really hoping to re-enter the running scene by taking part in the Surf City 5K on July 4. This was the first race I ever did back in 2003 when I started running. It seems like a fitting return. I won't be fast but I should be able to cover the distance by then.
In the meantime, thanks for hanging with me and accept my apologies for not stopping by more often. I've missed you.
So what have I missed:
Catalina Marathon, March 15, 2008 - DNS
Big Sur Marathon, April 27, 2008 - DNS
This weekend I missed the Malibu Creek Trail Challenge, a race I've run twice before in 2005 and 2007. So to keep the odd year thing going, I guess missing it this year isn't so bad.
I'm super bummed that I will have to sit out the Fontana Days Half Marathon this year as well. I've run it three years straight and had intended on keeping my streak alive. Back in December I had hoped to run Rock and Roll San Diego with my oldest son, but stress fractures for both of us have necessitated a reschedule.
The good:
I was released by the doctor that diagnosed the stress fracture to begin physical therapy. He also equipped me with a pair of orthotics on May 1. Working with the physical therapist has been very good. The pain in my tibia has subsided considerably. I've found out just how weak I truly am when it comes to some basic motions. All the work with him should set me up well for a great come back eventually. The original doc says I can start walking longer distances with the orthotics and left it up to the PT to release me to run. We haven’t set a firm date, but I’m really hoping to be running again by June 1. I've been going to the gym and riding the stationary bike up to 40 minutes at a time and I’ve been working with my personal trainer twice a week including a leg workout every other time with him. I've been getting in some exercise but nothing really replaces the feeling of being out on the streets and trails under your own power. All in due time, I suppose.
I did get to go to Big Sur to support my running group and my son, who ran a leg of the marathon relay. He had leg 2 and decided to run leg 3 up and over Hurricane Point as well. I had a good time shouting and ringing a cow bell near the finish line. A highlight of the trip was dinner with Michelle, Eric, Dori and Donald.The one thing that has been keeping me insanely busy lately, is a complete bathroom remodel. We had someone replace the pink 1958 bath tub for a new white model and will have someone else install new can lights and a separate switch for the fan, but the rest has fallen on me with help from my wife. I've spent the last several weekends from sun up to sun down installing backer board and tiling the tub enclosure. The garage is full of tile for the floor, new cabinets, a new toilet, lights, towel bars, etc. I've got to finish before June 3 when relatives start arriving from out of state for our youngest son's high school graduation. From this perspective, not running is a good thing.
I took some time today to make lunch for my wife and mother-in-law for Mother's Day. I made Pasta Puttenesca with shrimp and scallops (with an extra one of chicken for my son and sister-in-law). Salad and warm bread rounded out the meal. Then I made a lemon bundt cake and mixed berry sauce with vanilla ice cream for desert. It was all pretty darn good, if I say so myself.
The future:
It looks more and more like my only marathon this year might be Memphis in Tennessee with Joe and whoever else decides to join us. I'm really hoping to re-enter the running scene by taking part in the Surf City 5K on July 4. This was the first race I ever did back in 2003 when I started running. It seems like a fitting return. I won't be fast but I should be able to cover the distance by then.
In the meantime, thanks for hanging with me and accept my apologies for not stopping by more often. I've missed you.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Ironic
I travel fairly often for business and I really don't mind it. I've reached a point in my life where it fits in nicely. My boys are old enough to leave alone and my wife is a confident, self sufficient woman. This week I happen to be on the east coast. I flew to Philly, visited a customer in Jersey, then drove through Delaware and Maryland to end up in Virgina to visit a couple more customers the following days. (I kind of got a kick out of being in 5 different states in the same day, something that is not possible in a car on the west coast).
The best part about traveling for work for me is the chance to try out some new running scenery. When I pack my bags for a trip the first thing in are the running shoes and assorted technical clothing. I even wore my running shorts under my jeans on a flight once so I could hit the park on the way to the hotel. When I make my flight and hotel reservations the very next thing I do is scout out potential running routes in the area, then I get around to finding the directions to the offices I need to visit.
All that was true up until this trip. This trip there are no running shoes in the suitcase and I never even looked around for a running route. It was OK, I've gotten over my initial bout of malaise and crabbiness. As we (I was traveling with a sales rep) were driving down the road, just as we made the last right turn toward the hotel I spotted it...a rails-to-trail path. Unbeknownst to me, the Washington & Old Dominion Trail ran right behind my hotel.
My first thought was - what kind of cruel cosmic joke is this. Then I decided to make the best of it and changed out of my "dress up and meet customer clothes" into my jeans and skechers and headed out for a little 3 mile walk down the W&OD Trail.
I took another walk this evening as well. I still can hardly believe that there is 45 continuous miles of asphalt and 32 miles of adjacent crushed gravel path route outside the back door of my hotel and I didn't plan it that way. I saw a whole bunch of runners this evening along with numerous walkers and bikers. I really wanted to be running too, but walking sufficed.
If I ever make it back to northern Virginia on business I know where I'm staying and I know where I'm running, God willing.
The best part about traveling for work for me is the chance to try out some new running scenery. When I pack my bags for a trip the first thing in are the running shoes and assorted technical clothing. I even wore my running shorts under my jeans on a flight once so I could hit the park on the way to the hotel. When I make my flight and hotel reservations the very next thing I do is scout out potential running routes in the area, then I get around to finding the directions to the offices I need to visit.
All that was true up until this trip. This trip there are no running shoes in the suitcase and I never even looked around for a running route. It was OK, I've gotten over my initial bout of malaise and crabbiness. As we (I was traveling with a sales rep) were driving down the road, just as we made the last right turn toward the hotel I spotted it...a rails-to-trail path. Unbeknownst to me, the Washington & Old Dominion Trail ran right behind my hotel.
My first thought was - what kind of cruel cosmic joke is this. Then I decided to make the best of it and changed out of my "dress up and meet customer clothes" into my jeans and skechers and headed out for a little 3 mile walk down the W&OD Trail.
I took another walk this evening as well. I still can hardly believe that there is 45 continuous miles of asphalt and 32 miles of adjacent crushed gravel path route outside the back door of my hotel and I didn't plan it that way. I saw a whole bunch of runners this evening along with numerous walkers and bikers. I really wanted to be running too, but walking sufficed.
If I ever make it back to northern Virginia on business I know where I'm staying and I know where I'm running, God willing.
Monday, April 07, 2008
Memoirs
I like games. I also like winning games. I don't usually play a game that I have no chance of winning, like football and poker. This game I could at least give it a good try and who's to say if I won or lost.
I was tagged by "Sarah," of "Run...Here...Now" to play a little game called "six word memoir".
Here are the rules:
1) Write your own six word memoir
2) Post it on your blog and include a visual illustration if you want
3) Link to the person that tagged you in your post, and to the original post if possible so we can track it as it travels across the blogosphere
4) Tag at least five more blogs with links
5) Leave a comment on the tagged blogs with an invitation to play!
I thought of a few tactics for this one, but the hardest part for me was choosing 6 words. I kept coming up with 5 or 7. But the rules are the rules and being the black and white kinda guy I am I had to stick to them. Kind of like a training plan, you know. So here goes....
"Still trying to figure it out"
Visual illustration, huh? How about this (I'm on the road so I'm borrowing a pix from the web):
"Mark 8:36"
OK, that meets rules 1, 2, and 3. So in the spirit of the game I tag: Pat, Danny, Charlie, Randy and Ben (PreFan1982). I will be leaving comments on said blogs soon. I apologize if you’ve already been tagged or don’t like playing along, but since I’ve already made a point about being a stickler for the rules, I gotta do it. Rules 4 and 5 complete.
As for me on the running front, it’s been 4 full weeks without running. I have an appointment with the doc next Tuesday. I hope to know more then. I have felt a decrease in the pain level, but the thought of testing the waters scares me a little at this point.
I checked the calendar to count back from Memphis in December. I feel like it might be prudent to start at or very near square one when I am able, both mentally and physically, to run again. A beginner’s marathon training program would have me starting mid-June.
I was tagged by "Sarah," of "Run...Here...Now" to play a little game called "six word memoir".
Here are the rules:
1) Write your own six word memoir
2) Post it on your blog and include a visual illustration if you want
3) Link to the person that tagged you in your post, and to the original post if possible so we can track it as it travels across the blogosphere
4) Tag at least five more blogs with links
5) Leave a comment on the tagged blogs with an invitation to play!
I thought of a few tactics for this one, but the hardest part for me was choosing 6 words. I kept coming up with 5 or 7. But the rules are the rules and being the black and white kinda guy I am I had to stick to them. Kind of like a training plan, you know. So here goes....
"Still trying to figure it out"
Visual illustration, huh? How about this (I'm on the road so I'm borrowing a pix from the web):
"Mark 8:36"
OK, that meets rules 1, 2, and 3. So in the spirit of the game I tag: Pat, Danny, Charlie, Randy and Ben (PreFan1982). I will be leaving comments on said blogs soon. I apologize if you’ve already been tagged or don’t like playing along, but since I’ve already made a point about being a stickler for the rules, I gotta do it. Rules 4 and 5 complete.
As for me on the running front, it’s been 4 full weeks without running. I have an appointment with the doc next Tuesday. I hope to know more then. I have felt a decrease in the pain level, but the thought of testing the waters scares me a little at this point.
I checked the calendar to count back from Memphis in December. I feel like it might be prudent to start at or very near square one when I am able, both mentally and physically, to run again. A beginner’s marathon training program would have me starting mid-June.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Bonelli Vicariously
Tyler was home last week; spring break. He has been able to start running again, building back up from the stress fracture he sustained after the half marathon. He found a program online from the Pfitzinger Lab Report. I've bookmarked it myself for future reference.
Although not strictly on the plan, he took advantage of the terrific spring weather and headed over to Bonelli for a 3.5 mile jaunt and brought his camera along.
Although not strictly on the plan, he took advantage of the terrific spring weather and headed over to Bonelli for a 3.5 mile jaunt and brought his camera along.
I haven't run a step since the last run of the WTRS. Total mileage for March 2008 was an all time record low of 26.7 miles. A coworker made the observation that maybe this is what happens when you break your self imposed moratorium on California marathons for Catalina and Big Sur.
I've kept myself busy with home improvement projects. The hedge around the backyard is completely trimmed from one end to other for the first time since we moved into this house in 2000. We've painted our bedroom (twice) and installed, trimmed and painted 4 new interior doors. I've got three more to do and a bathroom remodel scheduled.
Run and race well and put in a couple of miles for me.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
A Simple e-Mail
I've considered several posts about the situation I find myself in but haven't quite figured out how or what I really want to say. This email string pretty much tells the story in far less words than any post I've composed in my head.
Hi Darrell,
Did you get to run Catalina? How are your legs? We hope you will heal in time for the Big Sur. When is your next state marathon? Be sure to put April 19th on your calendar for the Big Sur get together.
See you soon,
John and Dorothy
------------------------------------------------------
John & Dorothy,
I've definitely put the 19th on the calendar.
I did not run Catalina. The docs think I probably have a stress fracture. X-rays are inconclusive but there is a tell tale pain on the bone. Everyone recommended against Catalina so I finally listened. Big Sur looks doubtful at this point as well. It is only 6 weeks away. If I take 6 weeks off there is no way I'll be ready for a marathon. I may not even be ready for a leg of the relay, which I may consider if there was an opening. We'll be going anyway since Tyler is running one of the relay legs.
No states are planned this year yet, except for possibly Tennessee in December. I've got to let the leg heal up completely if I have any hope of running 38 more states someday.
Take care,
Darrell
Hi Darrell,
Did you get to run Catalina? How are your legs? We hope you will heal in time for the Big Sur. When is your next state marathon? Be sure to put April 19th on your calendar for the Big Sur get together.
See you soon,
John and Dorothy
------------------------------------------------------
John & Dorothy,
I've definitely put the 19th on the calendar.
I did not run Catalina. The docs think I probably have a stress fracture. X-rays are inconclusive but there is a tell tale pain on the bone. Everyone recommended against Catalina so I finally listened. Big Sur looks doubtful at this point as well. It is only 6 weeks away. If I take 6 weeks off there is no way I'll be ready for a marathon. I may not even be ready for a leg of the relay, which I may consider if there was an opening. We'll be going anyway since Tyler is running one of the relay legs.
No states are planned this year yet, except for possibly Tennessee in December. I've got to let the leg heal up completely if I have any hope of running 38 more states someday.
Take care,
Darrell
Thursday, March 13, 2008
WTRS Comes to an End
Here it is almost time for another weekend, and I'm finally getting around to posting about the last race in the Winter Trail Run Series. This time out it was 21K on completely new trails from the rest of the series. The maps and Garmins show 12.7 miles but I guess a 20.4K doesn't have quite the same ring.
What a beautiful weather day it was. We we so lucky throughout this whole series with the weather. It often rained the whole week before and even within hours after finishing but never on the race. I was kind of in a whiny mood at the start. I was cold (it wasn't really), I was tired (I hadn't slept well the night before) and my leg (the right one with the calf/shin issue) wasn't feeling too good. My bib number was 250. I hoped that that wasn't going to be my finish time.
We headed off down the road and it seemed like just about everybody took off ahead of me. I was taking it as easy as I could to assure a finish with the bum leg. As we chugged up the first climb up Main Divide, there were more than a few of us walking. The RD had counseled us to walk this and save our energies for later. We'd need it. I knew what was in store but I'm not sure how many others really did. Going up hill doesn't bother the leg.
After the aid station we headed down the Trabuco Trail, 1400 feet down. It was an amazing beautiful and fun trail to run down. The leg held up but I felt each step going down. I slowed to almost a walk on the steeper parts. There were some really rocky sections that made footing a bit of an issue.
Once we hit the bottom we headed UP and I do mean UP, Horsethief Trail, back up 1300 feet of the 1400 we'd just come down except up in 1.5 miles instead of the 2.5 miles down. I'd run this section before. There wasn't much running, but I did pass a couple of people even walking UP. As we approach the peak the trail takes on a different look, more sandy with ironwood brush. I was very happy to see this area knowing that the hardest part was over.
This time went we hit the summit we headed right on Main Divide back toward the aid station and ultimately down the hill again back to that starting line. Going down that hill was one of the toughest runs ever. My leg was throbbing with each downward step. I've never been a good downhill runner and on this particular day my downhill run was probably slower than my uphill walk. The last quarter of a mile or so was on a flat trail, except for the fallen tree we had to climb over.
My final time was 2:45:46, longer than the Boney Mountain Half in January by 10 minutes or so. I'm not sure which course is tougher, neither is easy, but I was happy to have completed the whole Winter Trail Series. This has been on my running radar for awhile. I wouldn't mind adding this as an annual event on the race calendar. You can't really beat a winter race where you can where a sleeveless shirt and get a head start on your summer tan!
This post has gone on long enough, so the current state of the leg "injury" will have to wait for another post. Sorry.
What a beautiful weather day it was. We we so lucky throughout this whole series with the weather. It often rained the whole week before and even within hours after finishing but never on the race. I was kind of in a whiny mood at the start. I was cold (it wasn't really), I was tired (I hadn't slept well the night before) and my leg (the right one with the calf/shin issue) wasn't feeling too good. My bib number was 250. I hoped that that wasn't going to be my finish time.
We headed off down the road and it seemed like just about everybody took off ahead of me. I was taking it as easy as I could to assure a finish with the bum leg. As we chugged up the first climb up Main Divide, there were more than a few of us walking. The RD had counseled us to walk this and save our energies for later. We'd need it. I knew what was in store but I'm not sure how many others really did. Going up hill doesn't bother the leg.
After the aid station we headed down the Trabuco Trail, 1400 feet down. It was an amazing beautiful and fun trail to run down. The leg held up but I felt each step going down. I slowed to almost a walk on the steeper parts. There were some really rocky sections that made footing a bit of an issue.
Once we hit the bottom we headed UP and I do mean UP, Horsethief Trail, back up 1300 feet of the 1400 we'd just come down except up in 1.5 miles instead of the 2.5 miles down. I'd run this section before. There wasn't much running, but I did pass a couple of people even walking UP. As we approach the peak the trail takes on a different look, more sandy with ironwood brush. I was very happy to see this area knowing that the hardest part was over.
This time went we hit the summit we headed right on Main Divide back toward the aid station and ultimately down the hill again back to that starting line. Going down that hill was one of the toughest runs ever. My leg was throbbing with each downward step. I've never been a good downhill runner and on this particular day my downhill run was probably slower than my uphill walk. The last quarter of a mile or so was on a flat trail, except for the fallen tree we had to climb over.
My final time was 2:45:46, longer than the Boney Mountain Half in January by 10 minutes or so. I'm not sure which course is tougher, neither is easy, but I was happy to have completed the whole Winter Trail Series. This has been on my running radar for awhile. I wouldn't mind adding this as an annual event on the race calendar. You can't really beat a winter race where you can where a sleeveless shirt and get a head start on your summer tan!
This post has gone on long enough, so the current state of the leg "injury" will have to wait for another post. Sorry.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Making Exceptions
This post has been a long time comin'. Finally, the answer to where's Darrell going to run his next marathon? What state is he going to conquer next?
I'd like to thank the bloggers that have invited me out to their state in 2008. David in Florida, Wes in Georgia and Rae in Tennessee. I have to give special mention to Neese, fellow ex-Ohioan, who volunteered to send my wife emails to get me to come to South Carolina. All places I'd love to go and people I'd like to meet (or see again in Wes' case).
My running group, the CA Cruisers, have been planning a yearly destination race. 2005 - Chicago, 2006 - St. George, UT, 2007 - Washington DC. In 2008 they've decided that the destination is the Big Sur Marathon. What was I going to do? I've had a moratorium on California marathons in favor of the state goal, but there was no way I was going to miss out on Donald's favorite marathon. Donald has done such a great job talking up this marathon, I knew it was only a matter of time before I'd run it.
I had originally committed to running my first ultra in CA this winter as well. When that didn't pan out I decided to go all the way with the California exceptions in 2008 and added another race from my wish list. With any luck I will be running the Catalina Marathon next weekend. I've hinted at running the inaugural Big Bear marathon in the fall as long as I've gone and broken the No CA Marathons Rule.
The big factor now is the state of my right calf. The knot/pain gets better during the week when I only do the bike at the gym but then flares back up in a big way after my longish runs on the weekend. The pain started about the time I started the WTRS wearing my trail shoes. I'm slated to run race #4 of the series this weekend and I'm going to wear my street shoes.
I do have an appointment Friday afternoon at a sports medicine/physical therapy clinic that comes highly regarded by a couple of my Cruiser running pals. After Catalina I can take some time off but I've only got 6 weeks after that before Big Sur. I don't expect much from either race in terms of times but I do hope to cross the finish lines having enjoyed the routes and with a smile on my face.
As far as other states in 2008, I only have tentative plans to meet Joe in Tennessee at the Memphis Marathon for what will become our 3rd Annual Early December Blogger Reunion Marathon. All are welcome to join us.
So, there it is, finally - my 2008 marathon plans assuming I can rehab the leg properly:
March 15 - Catalina Marathon, CA
April 27 - Big Sur International Marathon, CA
Sept 6 - Big Bear Marathon, CA
Dec 6 - Memphis Marathon, TN
I'd like to thank the bloggers that have invited me out to their state in 2008. David in Florida, Wes in Georgia and Rae in Tennessee. I have to give special mention to Neese, fellow ex-Ohioan, who volunteered to send my wife emails to get me to come to South Carolina. All places I'd love to go and people I'd like to meet (or see again in Wes' case).
My running group, the CA Cruisers, have been planning a yearly destination race. 2005 - Chicago, 2006 - St. George, UT, 2007 - Washington DC. In 2008 they've decided that the destination is the Big Sur Marathon. What was I going to do? I've had a moratorium on California marathons in favor of the state goal, but there was no way I was going to miss out on Donald's favorite marathon. Donald has done such a great job talking up this marathon, I knew it was only a matter of time before I'd run it.
I had originally committed to running my first ultra in CA this winter as well. When that didn't pan out I decided to go all the way with the California exceptions in 2008 and added another race from my wish list. With any luck I will be running the Catalina Marathon next weekend. I've hinted at running the inaugural Big Bear marathon in the fall as long as I've gone and broken the No CA Marathons Rule.
The big factor now is the state of my right calf. The knot/pain gets better during the week when I only do the bike at the gym but then flares back up in a big way after my longish runs on the weekend. The pain started about the time I started the WTRS wearing my trail shoes. I'm slated to run race #4 of the series this weekend and I'm going to wear my street shoes.
I do have an appointment Friday afternoon at a sports medicine/physical therapy clinic that comes highly regarded by a couple of my Cruiser running pals. After Catalina I can take some time off but I've only got 6 weeks after that before Big Sur. I don't expect much from either race in terms of times but I do hope to cross the finish lines having enjoyed the routes and with a smile on my face.
As far as other states in 2008, I only have tentative plans to meet Joe in Tennessee at the Memphis Marathon for what will become our 3rd Annual Early December Blogger Reunion Marathon. All are welcome to join us.
So, there it is, finally - my 2008 marathon plans assuming I can rehab the leg properly:
March 15 - Catalina Marathon, CA
April 27 - Big Sur International Marathon, CA
Sept 6 - Big Bear Marathon, CA
Dec 6 - Memphis Marathon, TN
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