Good morning.
Unstructured training is going well. Just trying to stay in shape and not gain weight over the holidays.
I am so excited that the election is almost here because I can't take anymore commercials. They all make me sick. Who can you really trust??? Anyone???
Yesterday was an active day with a 4 mile elliptical before breakfast, 1500 yard swim at lunch and 8 mile run before dinner.
I guess I thrive on miles more than food.
Today is a beautiful sunny fall day. Not sure which activity I will choose yet.
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Avg HR Max HR Steps Calories
1 0:09:05 0:08:55 1 0 5 9:05 8:55 7:39 123 136 0 63
2 0:08:16 0:08:03 1 10 0 8:16 8:03 7:00 131 136 0 63
3 0:08:15 0:08:06 1 3 0 8:15 8:06 6:57 127 136 0 54
4 0:08:13 0:08:09 1 0 13 8:13 8:09 6:35 132 138 0 58
5 0:08:07 0:07:58 1 14 0 8:07 7:58 6:47 136 140 0 58
6 0:08:12 0:08:10 1 0 3 8:12 8:10 6:55 137 142 0 61
7 0:08:07 0:08:08 1 0 4 8:07 8:08 6:57 137 141 0 58
8 0:08:03 0:07:57 1 0 5 8:03 7:57 7:07 138 144 0 55
9 0:00:30 0:00:29 0.07 0 0 7:27 7:08 6:41 143 144 0 4
Summary 1:06:51 1:05:55 8.07 26 31 8:17 8:10 6:35 132 144 0 474
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Friday, October 29, 2010
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Mixing It Up
Good morning.
Strong wind and rain storms rolling through Chicago today. Who doesn't love a good storm?
I am not really training for anything at this time. But, maintaining fitness is priority number one. I'll just mix things up a bit more with no set schedule.
If I want to run a fast 6, I will. If I want to run an easy 15, I will. Lifting weights? Sure. Bits of P90X? Sure. What about swimming and biking? Working on those also. Elliptical? Yep.
The off season for me means less, "training," and more maintainence. Also, perhaps more recovery time.
I did have an enjoyable and easy 9 mile run on Sunday. The pace was comfortable but it may be a tad fast for when I run with my wife in the Hot Chocolate 15K in November. Also, I was very pleased with the heart rate data.
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Avg HR Max HR Steps Calories
1 0:09:34 0:09:27 1 0 6 9:34 9:27 8:17 109 122 0 53
2 0:08:41 0:08:32 1 13 0 8:41 8:32 6:15 116 124 0 53
3 0:08:42 0:08:29 1 0 0 8:42 8:29 6:45 118 128 0 51
4 0:08:30 0:08:19 1 149 169 8:30 8:19 4:06 119 129 0 49
5 0:08:37 0:08:36 1 12 0 8:37 8:36 3:55 125 142 0 53
6 0:08:41 0:08:38 1 9 0 8:41 8:38 5:26 123 132 0 51
7 0:08:41 0:08:33 1 0 2 8:41 8:33 6:36 125 135 0 50
8 0:08:45 0:08:34 1 0 4 8:45 8:34 7:08 124 132 0 46
9 0:08:39 0:08:39 1 0 5 8:39 8:39 7:51 126 134 0 47
10 0:00:24 0:00:23 0.05 0 0 8:13 7:52 7:44 124 124 0 2
Summary 1:19:18 1:18:10 9.05 182 186 8:45 8:38 3:55 120 142 0 455
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Strong wind and rain storms rolling through Chicago today. Who doesn't love a good storm?
I am not really training for anything at this time. But, maintaining fitness is priority number one. I'll just mix things up a bit more with no set schedule.
If I want to run a fast 6, I will. If I want to run an easy 15, I will. Lifting weights? Sure. Bits of P90X? Sure. What about swimming and biking? Working on those also. Elliptical? Yep.
The off season for me means less, "training," and more maintainence. Also, perhaps more recovery time.
I did have an enjoyable and easy 9 mile run on Sunday. The pace was comfortable but it may be a tad fast for when I run with my wife in the Hot Chocolate 15K in November. Also, I was very pleased with the heart rate data.
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Avg HR Max HR Steps Calories
1 0:09:34 0:09:27 1 0 6 9:34 9:27 8:17 109 122 0 53
2 0:08:41 0:08:32 1 13 0 8:41 8:32 6:15 116 124 0 53
3 0:08:42 0:08:29 1 0 0 8:42 8:29 6:45 118 128 0 51
4 0:08:30 0:08:19 1 149 169 8:30 8:19 4:06 119 129 0 49
5 0:08:37 0:08:36 1 12 0 8:37 8:36 3:55 125 142 0 53
6 0:08:41 0:08:38 1 9 0 8:41 8:38 5:26 123 132 0 51
7 0:08:41 0:08:33 1 0 2 8:41 8:33 6:36 125 135 0 50
8 0:08:45 0:08:34 1 0 4 8:45 8:34 7:08 124 132 0 46
9 0:08:39 0:08:39 1 0 5 8:39 8:39 7:51 126 134 0 47
10 0:00:24 0:00:23 0.05 0 0 8:13 7:52 7:44 124 124 0 2
Summary 1:19:18 1:18:10 9.05 182 186 8:45 8:38 3:55 120 142 0 455
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Fortunate Registrant
Good morning.
Well, I was one of the diligent and fortunate runners who were able to register for the Boston Marathon yesterday. Who would have thought that there would be so much pent up demand and so many qualifiers that the event would fill in 8 hours.
I feel for those who perhaps went to work and looked forward to getting home for the evening and with smile on their face and register for Boston, their dream.
After they logged on to the BAA web-site they were welcomed with the page:
2011 BOSTON MARATHON REGISTRATION IS CLOSED.
I think I would have been in shock. But, a lesson was observed by me and learned by others: Don't wait!! If you got the qualifying time register ASAP!
I had not actually thought about waiting but I did think that there was no rush. But, something inside me said, "do it now." I'm glad I did.
So, The Boston Marathon is next April 18, 2011. Does anyone else know the signifigance of April 18th?
It should be a nice way to celebrate.
My recovery from the Chicago Marathon is going well. I am feeling great and enjoying various methods of cross training. Last Saturday I went on an 8 miler and just took it easy. My heart rate looks great for the pace.
Sunday was an enjoyable 45 mile bike ride with the Chicago Tri Club. The ride is called the Muffin Ride. We travel approx 22.5 miles north to Highland Park, stop for muffins and coffee and head back.
This was the longest bike for me since the Branson 1/2 IM. The legs felt terrific on the bike.
This fall and winter I plan on really strengthening my legs with various workouts. I did several new leg exercises yesterday that I got from Bicycling.com and I can tell these will strengthen muscles that I never knew I had. So, should be a fun way to hibernate.
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Avg HR Max HR Steps Calories
1 0:09:00 0:08:32 1 0 6 9:00 8:32 7:47 115 126 0 53
2 0:08:20 0:08:15 1 11 0 8:20 8:15 6:10 122 129 0 56
3 0:08:16 0:08:09 1 2 0 8:16 8:09 7:02 124 132 0 56
4 0:08:27 0:08:24 1 0 15 8:27 8:24 6:23 127 131 0 57
5 0:08:27 0:08:19 1 16 0 8:27 8:19 5:51 127 134 0 53
6 0:08:18 0:08:12 1 0 2 8:18 8:12 5:27 127 131 0 52
7 0:08:30 0:08:23 1 0 4 8:30 8:23 6:40 127 131 0 51
8 0:08:34 0:08:33 1 0 9 8:34 8:33 7:35 128 133 0 50
9 0:00:50 0:00:51 0.1 8 0 8:29 8:38 8:15 128 129 0 5
Summary 1:08:44 1:07:38 8.1 37 36 8:29 8:21 5:27 124 134 0 433
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Well, I was one of the diligent and fortunate runners who were able to register for the Boston Marathon yesterday. Who would have thought that there would be so much pent up demand and so many qualifiers that the event would fill in 8 hours.
I feel for those who perhaps went to work and looked forward to getting home for the evening and with smile on their face and register for Boston, their dream.
After they logged on to the BAA web-site they were welcomed with the page:
2011 BOSTON MARATHON REGISTRATION IS CLOSED.
I think I would have been in shock. But, a lesson was observed by me and learned by others: Don't wait!! If you got the qualifying time register ASAP!
I had not actually thought about waiting but I did think that there was no rush. But, something inside me said, "do it now." I'm glad I did.
So, The Boston Marathon is next April 18, 2011. Does anyone else know the signifigance of April 18th?
It should be a nice way to celebrate.
My recovery from the Chicago Marathon is going well. I am feeling great and enjoying various methods of cross training. Last Saturday I went on an 8 miler and just took it easy. My heart rate looks great for the pace.
Sunday was an enjoyable 45 mile bike ride with the Chicago Tri Club. The ride is called the Muffin Ride. We travel approx 22.5 miles north to Highland Park, stop for muffins and coffee and head back.
This was the longest bike for me since the Branson 1/2 IM. The legs felt terrific on the bike.
This fall and winter I plan on really strengthening my legs with various workouts. I did several new leg exercises yesterday that I got from Bicycling.com and I can tell these will strengthen muscles that I never knew I had. So, should be a fun way to hibernate.
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Avg HR Max HR Steps Calories
1 0:09:00 0:08:32 1 0 6 9:00 8:32 7:47 115 126 0 53
2 0:08:20 0:08:15 1 11 0 8:20 8:15 6:10 122 129 0 56
3 0:08:16 0:08:09 1 2 0 8:16 8:09 7:02 124 132 0 56
4 0:08:27 0:08:24 1 0 15 8:27 8:24 6:23 127 131 0 57
5 0:08:27 0:08:19 1 16 0 8:27 8:19 5:51 127 134 0 53
6 0:08:18 0:08:12 1 0 2 8:18 8:12 5:27 127 131 0 52
7 0:08:30 0:08:23 1 0 4 8:30 8:23 6:40 127 131 0 51
8 0:08:34 0:08:33 1 0 9 8:34 8:33 7:35 128 133 0 50
9 0:00:50 0:00:51 0.1 8 0 8:29 8:38 8:15 128 129 0 5
Summary 1:08:44 1:07:38 8.1 37 36 8:29 8:21 5:27 124 134 0 433
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Friday, October 15, 2010
Finishing What I Started Sunday
Good morning.
Chicago Marathon active recovery week has been going well. The elliptical, pool and bike are an excellent way to keep the muscles stimulated and moving.
I did go for my first run of the week yesterday. The legs felt very good and I was pain free. It seems I recover faster after each marathon. I know that the legs are not 100% recovered because that takes a little longer. But, I would call the first run back a success. The run was faster than I had planned but as usual I ran by how I felt.
The pace was good and the heart rate acceptable for this effort.
Perhaps I just wanted to finish what I started on Sunday during the marathon. Afterall, the last few miles were interupted by cramps.
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Avg HR Max HR Steps Calories
1 0:08:41 0:08:29 1 0 6 8:42 8:29 7:38 123 134 0 63
2 0:07:59 0:07:54 1 13 0 7:59 7:54 6:59 133 139 0 63
3 0:07:50 0:07:46 1 0 0 7:50 7:46 6:25 139 145 0 64
4 0:07:54 0:07:49 1 0 0 7:54 7:49 6:53 135 139 0 59
5 0:07:53 0:07:51 1 0 7 7:53 7:51 6:40 139 146 0 62
6 0:07:31 0:07:31 1 0 7 7:31 7:31 6:35 149 153 0 68
7 0:00:26 0:00:25 0.06 8 0 7:04 6:47 6:38 153 154 0 4
Summary 0:48:17 0:47:45 6.06 21 20 7:57 7:52 6:25 136 154 0 383
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Chicago Marathon active recovery week has been going well. The elliptical, pool and bike are an excellent way to keep the muscles stimulated and moving.
I did go for my first run of the week yesterday. The legs felt very good and I was pain free. It seems I recover faster after each marathon. I know that the legs are not 100% recovered because that takes a little longer. But, I would call the first run back a success. The run was faster than I had planned but as usual I ran by how I felt.
The pace was good and the heart rate acceptable for this effort.
Perhaps I just wanted to finish what I started on Sunday during the marathon. Afterall, the last few miles were interupted by cramps.
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Avg HR Max HR Steps Calories
1 0:08:41 0:08:29 1 0 6 8:42 8:29 7:38 123 134 0 63
2 0:07:59 0:07:54 1 13 0 7:59 7:54 6:59 133 139 0 63
3 0:07:50 0:07:46 1 0 0 7:50 7:46 6:25 139 145 0 64
4 0:07:54 0:07:49 1 0 0 7:54 7:49 6:53 135 139 0 59
5 0:07:53 0:07:51 1 0 7 7:53 7:51 6:40 139 146 0 62
6 0:07:31 0:07:31 1 0 7 7:31 7:31 6:35 149 153 0 68
7 0:00:26 0:00:25 0.06 8 0 7:04 6:47 6:38 153 154 0 4
Summary 0:48:17 0:47:45 6.06 21 20 7:57 7:52 6:25 136 154 0 383
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
My Goofy Perspective
Good morning.
Fall weather seems to have finally showed it's cooler face around here and It feels refreshing. The breeze seems to help the trees rid themselves of their canopy of leaves. Sometimes it's like it is snowing leaves as they bounce off my head and shoulders on their way to Earth.
The tree in my front yard always seems to be the last to give up it's clothing. It will hang on and on and on and then one day the tree will give up all it's leaves at one time. Then, hello rake.
I have been recovering nicely from the Chicago Marathon. The body feels better each day that passes. Active recovery which includes the elliptical, bike and pool keeps the body in movement allowing new healthy blood to replace the old. Active recovery works well for me.
During this time I enjoy reflecting back on what made my marathon a success. Compared to many other runners I did not run anywhere near the amount of training miles that I thought I needed for a Chicago PR.
I had to blend marathon training with triathlon training. My highest running mileage week was a little over 40 and those were few . But, there were other types of miles, like biking.
The training runs that I did do were great. My speed and endurance were more than I expected. My heart rate data was so good at hard paces. There is a lot of room for more speed and endurance from me.
So, I did learn that I can successfully be a triathlete and runner.
Another thing that helped me on race day was how I trained. I am fortunate to like heat.
Most, 90% plus, of my runs over the summer were done in the hottest part of the afternoon. I did not care what the mileage was or the temperature. I'd wait until late afternoon and start my trek. I look at this as part of the challenge.
I heard a saying once and I've always liked thinking about it. Namely,
You have to enjoy the day you have, not the day you want.
I also have another thought about running in difficult weather:
Anyone can run well in perfect conditions. Wouldn't/doesn't it have more intrinsic meaning to do your best in difficult conditions? It is the toughest battles that have the most meaning.
So, that is how I approach life and running and triathlon. Sometimes it's easier said than done but it does get done. There is always a lesson to learn.
Find that "Silver Lining."
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Fall weather seems to have finally showed it's cooler face around here and It feels refreshing. The breeze seems to help the trees rid themselves of their canopy of leaves. Sometimes it's like it is snowing leaves as they bounce off my head and shoulders on their way to Earth.
The tree in my front yard always seems to be the last to give up it's clothing. It will hang on and on and on and then one day the tree will give up all it's leaves at one time. Then, hello rake.
I have been recovering nicely from the Chicago Marathon. The body feels better each day that passes. Active recovery which includes the elliptical, bike and pool keeps the body in movement allowing new healthy blood to replace the old. Active recovery works well for me.
During this time I enjoy reflecting back on what made my marathon a success. Compared to many other runners I did not run anywhere near the amount of training miles that I thought I needed for a Chicago PR.
I had to blend marathon training with triathlon training. My highest running mileage week was a little over 40 and those were few . But, there were other types of miles, like biking.
The training runs that I did do were great. My speed and endurance were more than I expected. My heart rate data was so good at hard paces. There is a lot of room for more speed and endurance from me.
So, I did learn that I can successfully be a triathlete and runner.
Another thing that helped me on race day was how I trained. I am fortunate to like heat.
Most, 90% plus, of my runs over the summer were done in the hottest part of the afternoon. I did not care what the mileage was or the temperature. I'd wait until late afternoon and start my trek. I look at this as part of the challenge.
I heard a saying once and I've always liked thinking about it. Namely,
You have to enjoy the day you have, not the day you want.
I also have another thought about running in difficult weather:
Anyone can run well in perfect conditions. Wouldn't/doesn't it have more intrinsic meaning to do your best in difficult conditions? It is the toughest battles that have the most meaning.
So, that is how I approach life and running and triathlon. Sometimes it's easier said than done but it does get done. There is always a lesson to learn.
Find that "Silver Lining."
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Monday, October 11, 2010
Streets Of Chicago Marathon Report
The race day, as usual, started early. The Apple I Phone alarm was prompt at delivering it's "old Phone," sounding blare at 3:30 am. "Cool, I was waiting to get up to start this day."
I love to train but I also love to race. Racing is the one time where you can compare yourself to others and see how you stack up.
After my customary pre-race ritual of 64 ounces of coffee and oatmeal I got dressed and my wife delivered me to the marathon venue.
So peaceful it is along the lake and in Grant Park early marathon morning. Runners have their gear bags and all seem at peace with what is about to unfold. Some are nervous as well.
People are flooding into the park from all directions. There would eventually be over 38,000 runners filling Grant Park.
I just look around and take it all in. This is a special moment. This is the culmination of many months of training. For me it was a moment to reflect on how I blended triathlon training with marathon training together. How would this play out?
My legs felt great and my cardiovascular fitness is the best it's ever been. If anything, I was concerned that my leg strength and endurance would lag behind my cardio fitness. Time will tell.
After checking my gear bag I took care of some business and then headed to corral B. Standing there was surreal. You have all of these other athletes there taking in the moment and doing their own pre-race stretching, etc.
I kept track of the weather forcast during the week. It seemed like the temperature during the race was not going to be perfect. But, I figured that the first half of my race would be run with temps in the 60's and the the remainder would be run in temps in the low to mid 70's.
My thought was, "this can't be that bad." Also, the humidity level was going to be nominal. I also had my last two triathlons to draw experience from where the temperatures during the run was mid 90's and very humid.
Standing in the corral just minutes before the start I looked east towards the lake and saw the sun rising. Then I once again got teary eyed that the time was here. This would be it for a while. It would be some time until I would be on the lakefron path with my running friends. The friends I don't know. I only know their faces. The faces of dedication and commitment.
Today I would run with them. This is going to be a great day for a long run.
It was great to hear the starting horn. We all moved forward like cattle at first. Before you know it we are off and running.
My goal was to run the first 13-20 miles at a swift pace and then coast in. I thought, "lets do as many miles as possible at a really good pace before it may get too warm." So, that's what I did.
I was not sure at all what the cruising speed would be. I was going to allow my body to dictate that. My minimum goal was to come in at 3:30 or less. The meant averaging approx 8 minute miles for the race.
It did not take long until I realized that a pace around 7:30 was comfortable. I felt fast and fresh. I was having a ball with the fans lining the street as I high fived as many kids as possible. I was also telling the fans that they would be out there on the marathon course running next year.
The miles were clipping by. I got in a few conversations with others along the way. I asked one girl how she was feeling and then we got in a conversation about triathlons. In a split second she tripped and fell and I stopped to protect her from getting run over. I helped her up and we were off again.
I would run into her several times during the race. It was funny.
I kept myself hydrated and also poured water on myself during the race. This has become a proactive routine as I learned this in my triathlons in the excessive heat. It keeps me cool.
I just kept cruising. No problems whatsoever. My breathing and heart rate were totally under control. I had visions of a 3:20:00 marathon.
But, things changed during mile 23 per my Garmin. I started getting a right hamstring cramp. I've dealt with this exact cramp in this leg before. I would stop and stretch it out. This happened about 5 or 6 times during the last 4 miles. It was bad enough to make me change my running gait. I just wanted to run damn it.
Give me pain. I had pain. I could feel the pain in my quads down to the bone. Fine!! I love pain and can deal with it. My feet hurt. So what!
I know that the mind tricks the body into easing up. The body can do so much more than the mind sometimes lets it. "Break through the obstruction." "Pain is temporary." These were my thoughts.
It's the cramping that really gets me. I am not sure if you can run with cramps or not. What happens if you don't stop and just keep running. My hamstring cramps feel like a charlie horse starting. When I would stop and feel it, it felt like an apple. I would just stretch and go, stretch and go.
Then I started getting worried about not getting in under 3:30:00. I would be so disappointed if that happened. I was not going to let that happen. I had worked to hard all day.
I was running stiff legged trying not to bend my leg too much. My hips were doing most of the work. Running up Roosevelt was slow motion.
Please let me do this.
I made it up the hill with no cramps and turned left towards the finish. My Garmin said, 3:27: something. I'm thinking, "how long can it take to go only 200 meters?" Seemed like forever.
The closer I got the more I had to drag my right leg. But, finally I crossed the finish line and stood there. I walked ever so slowly forward. The Garmin said, 3:29 something.
Whew, I did it! A new PR, another BQ and a NYC Marathon qualification.
I could hardly walk and it took a while to get the medal and refreshments. I was in pain.
I met my wife and we decided to begin our 2 mile walk north to the Bloomingdales building. I think this walk was harder than the run. I could only go so fast which was snails pace. About 1.5 mph, if that.
I did change my shirt, socks and shoes before we walked. My wife wanted me to change my shorts and I was like, "no way Jose." If I bent my legs who knows what would happen. So, I thank my wife for changing my socks and shoes for me.
I had one cramp in my left leg that was strange. It started in/on my shin muscle and it started pulling my foot towards my knee. I did not know what to do. Thank God it went away.
During our walk to Bloomingdales I actually ran into that girl runner who I helped up after her fall. I looked at her and said, "hey, it's my friend." I introduced her to my wife and asked how she did. She was happy and ran a 3:40:00.
Once at the Bloomingdale building I got a large pomagranete frozen yogurt and we went home.
From this experience I learned that I can sustain an excellent pace for a long time. My cardiovascular fitness is terrific. I am not sure why I got such bad cramps but I dealt with them and got the job done.
I look forward to my next challenge.
My splits are below:
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Steps Calories
1 0:06:43 0:05:36 1 115 130 6:43 5:36 0:55 0 92
2 0:01:27 0:01:06 0.23 204 201 6:26 4:52 2:30 0 23
3 0:07:14 0:07:11 1 194 191 7:14 7:11 2:20 0 123
4 0:07:21 0:07:18 1 0 0 7:21 7:18 2:14 0 121
5 0:07:33 0:07:27 1 0 4 7:33 7:27 4:20 0 123
6 0:07:33 0:07:33 1 6 0 7:34 7:33 5:27 0 120
7 0:07:39 0:07:40 1 3 3 7:39 7:40 6:31 0 120
8 0:07:35 0:07:34 1 16 13 7:35 7:34 5:54 0 120
9 0:07:21 0:07:21 1 0 10 7:21 7:21 4:18 0 121
10 0:07:35 0:07:35 1 10 0 7:36 7:35 6:53 0 120
11 0:07:28 0:07:25 1 3 0 7:28 7:25 6:51 0 119
12 0:07:29 0:07:28 1 0 4 7:29 7:28 7:02 0 120
13 0:07:28 0:07:25 1 0 7 7:28 7:25 6:40 0 119
14 0:07:27 0:07:25 1 15 13 7:27 7:25 4:42 0 121
15 0:07:14 0:07:14 1 7 8 7:14 7:14 2:44 0 125
16 0:07:30 0:07:26 1 5 0 7:30 7:26 6:50 0 120
17 0:07:27 0:07:28 1 0 5 7:27 7:28 6:54 0 119
18 0:07:30 0:07:30 1 3 6 7:30 7:30 6:12 0 120
19 0:07:38 0:07:34 1 7 0 7:38 7:34 6:56 0 119
20 0:07:39 0:07:36 1 3 0 7:39 7:36 7:01 0 120
21 0:07:54 0:07:52 1 0 0 7:54 7:52 6:29 0 120
22 0:07:43 0:07:38 1 0 7 7:43 7:38 6:57 0 119
23 0:08:07 0:08:03 1 6 0 8:07 8:03 6:24 0 119
24 0:08:18 0:08:17 1 13 30 8:18 8:17 7:07 0 119
25 0:08:52 0:08:48 1 14 0 8:52 8:48 7:51 0 119
26 0:09:14 0:08:58 1 0 11 9:14 8:58 8:04 0 113
27 0:09:46 0:09:43 1 11 0 9:46 9:43 6:52 0 116
28 0:06:33 0:06:31 0.67 10 4 9:49 9:45 5:33 0 79
Summary 3:29:32 3:26:42 26.89 646 645 7:47 7:41 0:55 0 3,189
Edited by Silentrunner 10/11/2010 4:01 PM
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
I love to train but I also love to race. Racing is the one time where you can compare yourself to others and see how you stack up.
After my customary pre-race ritual of 64 ounces of coffee and oatmeal I got dressed and my wife delivered me to the marathon venue.
So peaceful it is along the lake and in Grant Park early marathon morning. Runners have their gear bags and all seem at peace with what is about to unfold. Some are nervous as well.
People are flooding into the park from all directions. There would eventually be over 38,000 runners filling Grant Park.
I just look around and take it all in. This is a special moment. This is the culmination of many months of training. For me it was a moment to reflect on how I blended triathlon training with marathon training together. How would this play out?
My legs felt great and my cardiovascular fitness is the best it's ever been. If anything, I was concerned that my leg strength and endurance would lag behind my cardio fitness. Time will tell.
After checking my gear bag I took care of some business and then headed to corral B. Standing there was surreal. You have all of these other athletes there taking in the moment and doing their own pre-race stretching, etc.
I kept track of the weather forcast during the week. It seemed like the temperature during the race was not going to be perfect. But, I figured that the first half of my race would be run with temps in the 60's and the the remainder would be run in temps in the low to mid 70's.
My thought was, "this can't be that bad." Also, the humidity level was going to be nominal. I also had my last two triathlons to draw experience from where the temperatures during the run was mid 90's and very humid.
Standing in the corral just minutes before the start I looked east towards the lake and saw the sun rising. Then I once again got teary eyed that the time was here. This would be it for a while. It would be some time until I would be on the lakefron path with my running friends. The friends I don't know. I only know their faces. The faces of dedication and commitment.
Today I would run with them. This is going to be a great day for a long run.
It was great to hear the starting horn. We all moved forward like cattle at first. Before you know it we are off and running.
My goal was to run the first 13-20 miles at a swift pace and then coast in. I thought, "lets do as many miles as possible at a really good pace before it may get too warm." So, that's what I did.
I was not sure at all what the cruising speed would be. I was going to allow my body to dictate that. My minimum goal was to come in at 3:30 or less. The meant averaging approx 8 minute miles for the race.
It did not take long until I realized that a pace around 7:30 was comfortable. I felt fast and fresh. I was having a ball with the fans lining the street as I high fived as many kids as possible. I was also telling the fans that they would be out there on the marathon course running next year.
The miles were clipping by. I got in a few conversations with others along the way. I asked one girl how she was feeling and then we got in a conversation about triathlons. In a split second she tripped and fell and I stopped to protect her from getting run over. I helped her up and we were off again.
I would run into her several times during the race. It was funny.
I kept myself hydrated and also poured water on myself during the race. This has become a proactive routine as I learned this in my triathlons in the excessive heat. It keeps me cool.
I just kept cruising. No problems whatsoever. My breathing and heart rate were totally under control. I had visions of a 3:20:00 marathon.
But, things changed during mile 23 per my Garmin. I started getting a right hamstring cramp. I've dealt with this exact cramp in this leg before. I would stop and stretch it out. This happened about 5 or 6 times during the last 4 miles. It was bad enough to make me change my running gait. I just wanted to run damn it.
Give me pain. I had pain. I could feel the pain in my quads down to the bone. Fine!! I love pain and can deal with it. My feet hurt. So what!
I know that the mind tricks the body into easing up. The body can do so much more than the mind sometimes lets it. "Break through the obstruction." "Pain is temporary." These were my thoughts.
It's the cramping that really gets me. I am not sure if you can run with cramps or not. What happens if you don't stop and just keep running. My hamstring cramps feel like a charlie horse starting. When I would stop and feel it, it felt like an apple. I would just stretch and go, stretch and go.
Then I started getting worried about not getting in under 3:30:00. I would be so disappointed if that happened. I was not going to let that happen. I had worked to hard all day.
I was running stiff legged trying not to bend my leg too much. My hips were doing most of the work. Running up Roosevelt was slow motion.
Please let me do this.
I made it up the hill with no cramps and turned left towards the finish. My Garmin said, 3:27: something. I'm thinking, "how long can it take to go only 200 meters?" Seemed like forever.
The closer I got the more I had to drag my right leg. But, finally I crossed the finish line and stood there. I walked ever so slowly forward. The Garmin said, 3:29 something.
Whew, I did it! A new PR, another BQ and a NYC Marathon qualification.
I could hardly walk and it took a while to get the medal and refreshments. I was in pain.
I met my wife and we decided to begin our 2 mile walk north to the Bloomingdales building. I think this walk was harder than the run. I could only go so fast which was snails pace. About 1.5 mph, if that.
I did change my shirt, socks and shoes before we walked. My wife wanted me to change my shorts and I was like, "no way Jose." If I bent my legs who knows what would happen. So, I thank my wife for changing my socks and shoes for me.
I had one cramp in my left leg that was strange. It started in/on my shin muscle and it started pulling my foot towards my knee. I did not know what to do. Thank God it went away.
During our walk to Bloomingdales I actually ran into that girl runner who I helped up after her fall. I looked at her and said, "hey, it's my friend." I introduced her to my wife and asked how she did. She was happy and ran a 3:40:00.
Once at the Bloomingdale building I got a large pomagranete frozen yogurt and we went home.
From this experience I learned that I can sustain an excellent pace for a long time. My cardiovascular fitness is terrific. I am not sure why I got such bad cramps but I dealt with them and got the job done.
I look forward to my next challenge.
My splits are below:
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Steps Calories
1 0:06:43 0:05:36 1 115 130 6:43 5:36 0:55 0 92
2 0:01:27 0:01:06 0.23 204 201 6:26 4:52 2:30 0 23
3 0:07:14 0:07:11 1 194 191 7:14 7:11 2:20 0 123
4 0:07:21 0:07:18 1 0 0 7:21 7:18 2:14 0 121
5 0:07:33 0:07:27 1 0 4 7:33 7:27 4:20 0 123
6 0:07:33 0:07:33 1 6 0 7:34 7:33 5:27 0 120
7 0:07:39 0:07:40 1 3 3 7:39 7:40 6:31 0 120
8 0:07:35 0:07:34 1 16 13 7:35 7:34 5:54 0 120
9 0:07:21 0:07:21 1 0 10 7:21 7:21 4:18 0 121
10 0:07:35 0:07:35 1 10 0 7:36 7:35 6:53 0 120
11 0:07:28 0:07:25 1 3 0 7:28 7:25 6:51 0 119
12 0:07:29 0:07:28 1 0 4 7:29 7:28 7:02 0 120
13 0:07:28 0:07:25 1 0 7 7:28 7:25 6:40 0 119
14 0:07:27 0:07:25 1 15 13 7:27 7:25 4:42 0 121
15 0:07:14 0:07:14 1 7 8 7:14 7:14 2:44 0 125
16 0:07:30 0:07:26 1 5 0 7:30 7:26 6:50 0 120
17 0:07:27 0:07:28 1 0 5 7:27 7:28 6:54 0 119
18 0:07:30 0:07:30 1 3 6 7:30 7:30 6:12 0 120
19 0:07:38 0:07:34 1 7 0 7:38 7:34 6:56 0 119
20 0:07:39 0:07:36 1 3 0 7:39 7:36 7:01 0 120
21 0:07:54 0:07:52 1 0 0 7:54 7:52 6:29 0 120
22 0:07:43 0:07:38 1 0 7 7:43 7:38 6:57 0 119
23 0:08:07 0:08:03 1 6 0 8:07 8:03 6:24 0 119
24 0:08:18 0:08:17 1 13 30 8:18 8:17 7:07 0 119
25 0:08:52 0:08:48 1 14 0 8:52 8:48 7:51 0 119
26 0:09:14 0:08:58 1 0 11 9:14 8:58 8:04 0 113
27 0:09:46 0:09:43 1 11 0 9:46 9:43 6:52 0 116
28 0:06:33 0:06:31 0.67 10 4 9:49 9:45 5:33 0 79
Summary 3:29:32 3:26:42 26.89 646 645 7:47 7:41 0:55 0 3,189
Edited by Silentrunner 10/11/2010 4:01 PM
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Streets Of Chicago Marathon Race Report
The race day, as usual, started early. The Apple I Phone alarm was prompt at delivering it's "old Phone," sounding blare at 3:30 am. "Cool, I was waiting to get up to start this day."
I love to train but I also love to race. Racing is the one time where you can compare yourself to others and see how you stack up.
After my customary pre-race ritual of 64 ounces of coffee and oatmeal I got dressed and my wife delivered me to the marathon venue.
So peaceful it is along the lake and in Grant Park early marathon morning. Runners have their gear bags and all seem at peace with what is about to unfold. Some are nervous as well.
People are flooding into the park from all directions. There would eventually be over 38,000 runners filling Grant Park.
I just look around and take it all in. This is a special moment. This is the culmination of many months of training. For me it was a moment to reflect on how I blended triathlon training with marathon training together. How would this play out?
My legs felt great and my cardiovascular fitness is the best it's ever been. If anything, I was concerned that my leg strength and endurance would lag behind my cardio fitness. Time will tell.
After checking my gear bag I took care of some business and then headed to corral B. Standing there was surreal. You have all of these other athletes there taking in the moment and doing their own pre-race stretching, etc.
I kept track of the weather forcast during the week. It seemed like the temperature during the race was not going to be perfect. But, I figured that the first half of my race would be run with temps in the 60's and the the remainder would be run in temps in the low to mid 70's.
My thought was, "this can't be that bad." Also, the humidity level was going to be nominal. I also had my last two triathlons to draw experience from where the temperatures during the run was mid 90's and very humid.
Standing in the corral just minutes before the start I looked east towards the lake and saw the sun rising. Then I once again got teary eyed that the time was here. This would be it for a while. It would be some time until I would be on the lakefron path with my running friends. The friends I don't know. I only know their faces. The faces of dedication and commitment.
Today I would run with them. This is going to be a great day for a long run.
It was great to hear the starting horn. We all moved forward like cattle at first. Before you know it we are off and running.
My goal was to run the first 13-20 miles at a swift pace and then coast in. I thought, "lets do as many miles as possible at a really good pace before it may get too warm." So, that's what I did.
I was not sure at all what the cruising speed would be. I was going to allow my body to dictate that. My minimum goal was to come in at 3:30 or less. The meant averaging approx 8 minute miles for the race.
It did not take long until I realized that a pace around 7:30 was comfortable. I felt fast and fresh. I was having a ball with the fans lining the street as I high fived as many kids as possible. I was also telling the fans that they would be out there on the marathon course running next year.
The miles were clipping by. I got in a few conversations with others along the way. I asked one girl how she was feeling and then we got in a conversation about triathlons. In a split second she tripped and fell and I stopped to protect her from getting run over. I helped her up and we were off again.
I would run into her several times during the race. It was funny.
I kept myself hydrated and also poured water on myself during the race. This has become a proactive routine as I learned this in my triathlons in the excessive heat. It keeps me cool.
I just kept cruising. No problems whatsoever. My breathing and heart rate were totally under control. I had visions of a 3:20:00 marathon.
But, things changed during mile 23 per my Garmin. I started getting a right hamstring cramp. I've dealt with this exact cramp in this leg before. I would stop and stretch it out. This happened about 5 or 6 times during the last 4 miles. It was bad enough to make me change my running gait. I just wanted to run damn it.
Give me pain. I had pain. I could feel the pain in my quads down to the bone. Fine!! I love pain and can deal with it. My feet hurt. So what!
I know that the mind tricks the body into easing up. The body can do so much more than the mind sometimes lets it. "Break through the obstruction." "Pain is temporary." These were my thoughts.
It's the cramping that really gets me. I am not sure if you can run with cramps or not. What happens if you don't stop and just keep running. My hamstring cramps feel like a charlie horse starting. When I would stop and feel it, it felt like an apple. I would just stretch and go, stretch and go.
Then I started getting worried about not getting in under 3:30:00. I would be so disappointed if that happened. I was not going to let that happen. I had worked to hard all day.
I was running stiff legged trying not to bend my leg too much. My hips were doing most of the work. Running up Roosevelt was slow motion.
Please let me do this.
I made it up the hill with no cramps and turned left towards the finish. My Garmin said, 3:27: something. I'm thinking, "how long can it take to go only 200 meters?" Seemed like forever.
The closer I got the more I had to drag my right leg. But, finally I crossed the finish line and stood there. I walked ever so slowly forward. The Garmin said, 3:29 something.
Whew, I did it! A new PR, another BQ and a NYC Marathon qualification.
I could hardly walk and it took a while to get the medal and refreshments. I was in pain.
I met my wife and we decided to begin our 2 mile walk north to the Bloomingdales building. I think this walk was harder than the run. I could only go so fast which was snails pace. About 1.5 mph, if that.
I did change my shirt, socks and shoes before we walked. My wife wanted me to change my shorts and I was like, "no way Jose." If I bent my legs who knows what would happen. So, I thank my wife for changing my socks and shoes for me.
I had one cramp in my left leg that was strange. It started in/on my shin muscle and it started pulling my foot towards my knee. I did not know what to do. Thank God it went away.
During our walk to Bloomingdales I actually ran into that girl runner who I helped up after her fall. I looked at her and said, "hey, it's my friend." I introduced her to my wife and asked how she did. She was happy and ran a 3:40:00.
Once at the Bloomingdale building I got a large pomagranete frozen yogurt and we went home.
From this experience I learned that I can sustain an excellent pace for a long time. My cardiovascular fitness is terrific. I am not sure why I got such bad cramps but I dealt with them and got the job done.
I look forward to my next challenge.
My splits are below:
The race day, as usual, started early. The Apple I Phone alarm was prompt at delivering it's "old Phone," sounding blare at 3:30 am. "Cool, I was waiting to get up to start this day."
I love to train but I also love to race. Racing is the one time where you can compare yourself to others and see how you stack up.
After my customary pre-race ritual of 64 ounces of coffee and oatmeal I got dressed and my wife delivered me to the marathon venue.
So peaceful it is along the lake and in Grant Park early marathon morning. Runners have their gear bags and all seem at peace with what is about to unfold. Some are nervous as well.
People are flooding into the park from all directions. There would eventually be over 38,000 runners filling Grant Park.
I just look around and take it all in. This is a special moment. This is the culmination of many months of training. For me it was a moment to reflect on how I blended triathlon training with marathon training together. How would this play out?
My legs felt great and my cardiovascular fitness is the best it's ever been. If anything, I was concerned that my leg strength and endurance would lag behind my cardio fitness. Time will tell.
After checking my gear bag I took care of some business and then headed to corral B. Standing there was surreal. You have all of these other athletes there taking in the moment and doing their own pre-race stretching, etc.
I kept track of the weather forcast during the week. It seemed like the temperature during the race was not going to be perfect. But, I figured that the first half of my race would be run with temps in the 60's and the the remainder would be run in temps in the low to mid 70's.
My thought was, "this can't be that bad." Also, the humidity level was going to be nominal. I also had my last two triathlons to draw experience from where the temperatures during the run was mid 90's and very humid.
Standing in the corral just minutes before the start I looked east towards the lake and saw the sun rising. Then I once again got teary eyed that the time was here. This would be it for a while. It would be some time until I would be on the lakefron path with my running friends. The friends I don't know. I only know their faces. The faces of dedication and commitment. Today I would run with them. This is going to be a great day for a long run.
It was great to hear the starting horn. We all moved forward like cattle at first. Before you know it we are off and running.
My goal was to run the first 13-20 miles at a swift pace and then coast in. I thought, "lets do as many miles as possible at a really good pace before it may get too warm." So, that's what I did.
I was not sure at all what the cruising speed would be. I was going to allow my body to dictate that. My minimum goal was to come in 3:30 or less. The meant averaging approx 8 minute miles for the race.
It did not take long until I realized that a pace around 7:30 was comfortable. I felt fast and fresh. I was having a ball with the fans lining the street as I high fived as many kids as possible. I was also telling the fans that they would be out there on the marathon course running next year.
The miles were clipping by. I got in a few conversations with others along the way. I asked one girl how she was feeling and then we got in a conversation about triathlons. In a split second she tripped and fell and I stopped to protect her from getting run over. I helped her up and we were off again.
I would run into her several times during the race. It was funny.
I kept myself hydrated and also poured water on myself during the race. This has become a proactive routine as I learned this in my triathlons in the excessive heat. It keeps me cool.
I just kept cruising. No problems whatsoever. My breathing and heart rate were totally under control. I had visions of a 3:20:00 on my mind.
But, things changed during mile 23 per my Garmin. I started getting a right hamstring cramp. I've dealt with this exact cramp in this leg before. I would stop and stretch it out. This happened about 5 or 6 time during the last 4 miles. It was bad enough to make me change my running gait. I just wanted to run damn it.
Give me pain. I had pain. I could feel the pain in my quads down to the bone. Fine!! I love pain and can deal with it. My feet hurt. So what!
It's the cramping that really gets me. I am not sure if you can run with cramps or not. What happens if you don't stop and just keep running. My hamstring cramps feel like a charlie horse starting. When I would stop and feel it, it felt like an apple. I would just stretch and go, stretch and go.
Then I started getting worried about not getting in under 3:30:00. I would be so disappointed if that happened. I was not going to let that happen. I had worked to hard all day.
I was running stiff legged trying not to bend my leg too much. My hips were doing most of the work. Running up Roosevelt was slow motion. Please let me do this.
I made it up the hill with no cramps and turned left towards the finish. My Garmin said, 3:27: something. I'm thinking, "how long can it take to go only 200 meters?" Seemed like forever.
The closer I got the more I had to drag my right leg. But, finally I crossed the finish line and stood there. I walked ever so slowly forward. The Garmin said, 3:29 something.
Whew, I did it! A new PR, another BQ and a NYC Marathon qualification.
I could hardly walk and it took a while to get the medal and refreshments. I was in pain.
I met my wife and we decided to begin our 2 mile walk north to the Bloomingdales building. I think this walk was harder than the run. I could only go so fast which was snails pace.
I did change my shirt, socks and shoes before we walked. My wife wanted me to change my shorts and I was like, "no way Jose." If I bent my legs who knows what would happen. So, I thank my wife for changing my socks and shoes for me.
I had one cramp in my left leg that was strange. It started in/on my shin muscle and it started pulling my foot towards my knee. I did not know what to do. Thank God it went away.
During our walk to Bloomingdales I actually ran into that girl runner who I helped up after her fall. I looked at her and said, "hey, it's my friend." I introduced her to my wife and asked how she did. She was happy and ran a 3:40:00.
Once at the Bloomingdale building I got a large pomagranete frozen yogurt and we went home.
From this experience I learned that I can sustain an excellent pace for a long time. My cardiovascular fitness is terrific. I am not sure why I got such bad cramps but I dealt with them and got the job done.
I look forward to my next challenge.
The race day, as usual, started early. The Apple I Phone alarm was prompt at delivering it's "old Phone," sounding blare at 3:30 am. "Cool, I was waiting to get up to start this day."
I love to train but I also love to race. Racing is the one time where you can compare yourself to others and see how you stack up.
After my customary pre-race ritual of 64 ounces of coffee and oatmeal I got dressed and my wife delivered me to the marathon venue.
So peaceful it is along the lake and in Grant Park early marathon morning. Runners have their gear bags and all seem at peace with what is about to unfold. Some are nervous as well.
People are flooding into the park from all directions. There would eventually be over 38,000 runners filling Grant Park.
I just look around and take it all in. This is a special moment. This is the culmination of many months of training. For me it was a moment to reflect on how I blended triathlon training with marathon training together. How would this play out?
My legs felt great and my cardiovascular fitness is the best it's ever been. If anything, I was concerned that my leg strength and endurance would lag behind my cardio fitness. Time will tell.
After checking my gear bag I took care of some business and then headed to corral B. Standing there was surreal. You have all of these other athletes there taking in the moment and doing their own pre-race stretching, etc.
I kept track of the weather forcast during the week. It seemed like the temperature during the race was not going to be perfect. But, I figured that the first half of my race would be run with temps in the 60's and the the remainder would be run in temps in the low to mid 70's.
My thought was, "this can't be that bad." Also, the humidity level was going to be nominal. I also had my last two triathlons to draw experience from where the temperatures during the run was mid 90's and very humid.
Standing in the corral just minutes before the start I looked east towards the lake and saw the sun rising. Then I once again got teary eyed that the time was here. This would be it for a while. It would be some time until I would be on the lakefron path with my running friends. The friends I don't know. I only know their faces. The faces of dedication and commitment. Today I would run with them. This is going to be a great day for a long run.
It was great to hear the starting horn. We all moved forward like cattle at first. Before you know it we are off and running.
My goal was to run the first 13-20 miles at a swift pace and then coast in. I thought, "lets do as many miles as possible at a really good pace before it may get too warm." So, that's what I did.
I was not sure at all what the cruising speed would be. I was going to allow my body to dictate that. My minimum goal was to come in 3:30 or less. The meant averaging approx 8 minute miles for the race.
It did not take long until I realized that a pace around 7:30 was comfortable. I felt fast and fresh. I was having a ball with the fans lining the street as I high fived as many kids as possible. I was also telling the fans that they would be out there on the marathon course running next year.
The miles were clipping by. I got in a few conversations with others along the way. I asked one girl how she was feeling and then we got in a conversation about triathlons. In a split second she tripped and fell and I stopped to protect her from getting run over. I helped her up and we were off again.
I would run into her several times during the race. It was funny.
I kept myself hydrated and also poured water on myself during the race. This has become a proactive routine as I learned this in my triathlons in the excessive heat. It keeps me cool.
I just kept cruising. No problems whatsoever. My breathing and heart rate were totally under control. I had visions of a 3:20:00 on my mind.
But, things changed during mile 23 per my Garmin. I started getting a right hamstring cramp. I've dealt with this exact cramp in this leg before. I would stop and stretch it out. This happened about 5 or 6 time during the last 4 miles. It was bad enough to make me change my running gait. I just wanted to run damn it.
Give me pain. I had pain. I could feel the pain in my quads down to the bone. Fine!! I love pain and can deal with it. My feet hurt. So what!
It's the cramping that really gets me. I am not sure if you can run with cramps or not. What happens if you don't stop and just keep running. My hamstring cramps feel like a charlie horse starting. When I would stop and feel it, it felt like an apple. I would just stretch and go, stretch and go.
Then I started getting worried about not getting in under 3:30:00. I would be so disappointed if that happened. I was not going to let that happen. I had worked to hard all day.
I was running stiff legged trying not to bend my leg too much. My hips were doing most of the work. Running up Roosevelt was slow motion. Please let me do this.
I made it up the hill with no cramps and turned left towards the finish. My Garmin said, 3:27: something. I'm thinking, "how long can it take to go only 200 meters?" Seemed like forever.
The closer I got the more I had to drag my right leg. But, finally I crossed the finish line and stood there. I walked ever so slowly forward. The Garmin said, 3:29 something.
Whew, I did it! A new PR, another BQ and a NYC Marathon qualification.
I could hardly walk and it took a while to get the medal and refreshments. I was in pain.
I met my wife and we decided to begin our 2 mile walk north to the Bloomingdales building. I think this walk was harder than the run. I could only go so fast which was snails pace.
I did change my shirt, socks and shoes before we walked. My wife wanted me to change my shorts and I was like, "no way Jose." If I bent my legs who knows what would happen. So, I thank my wife for changing my socks and shoes for me.
I had one cramp in my left leg that was strange. It started in/on my shin muscle and it started pulling my foot towards my knee. I did not know what to do. Thank God it went away.
During our walk to Bloomingdales I actually ran into that girl runner who I helped up after her fall. I looked at her and said, "hey, it's my friend." I introduced her to my wife and asked how she did. She was happy and ran a 3:40:00.
Once at the Bloomingdale building I got a large pomagranete frozen yogurt and we went home.
From this experience I learned that I can sustain an excellent pace for a long time. My cardiovascular fitness is terrific. I am not sure why I got such bad cramps but I dealt with them and got the job done.
I look forward to my next challenge.
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Steps Calories
1 0:06:43 0:05:36 1 115 130 6:43 5:36 0:55 0 92
2 0:01:27 0:01:06 0.23 204 201 6:26 4:52 2:30 0 23
3 0:07:14 0:07:11 1 194 191 7:14 7:11 2:20 0 123
4 0:07:21 0:07:18 1 0 0 7:21 7:18 2:14 0 121
5 0:07:33 0:07:27 1 0 4 7:33 7:27 4:20 0 123
6 0:07:33 0:07:33 1 6 0 7:34 7:33 5:27 0 120
7 0:07:39 0:07:40 1 3 3 7:39 7:40 6:31 0 120
8 0:07:35 0:07:34 1 16 13 7:35 7:34 5:54 0 120
9 0:07:21 0:07:21 1 0 10 7:21 7:21 4:18 0 121
10 0:07:35 0:07:35 1 10 0 7:36 7:35 6:53 0 120
11 0:07:28 0:07:25 1 3 0 7:28 7:25 6:51 0 119
12 0:07:29 0:07:28 1 0 4 7:29 7:28 7:02 0 120
13 0:07:28 0:07:25 1 0 7 7:28 7:25 6:40 0 119
14 0:07:27 0:07:25 1 15 13 7:27 7:25 4:42 0 121
15 0:07:14 0:07:14 1 7 8 7:14 7:14 2:44 0 125
16 0:07:30 0:07:26 1 5 0 7:30 7:26 6:50 0 120
17 0:07:27 0:07:28 1 0 5 7:27 7:28 6:54 0 119
18 0:07:30 0:07:30 1 3 6 7:30 7:30 6:12 0 120
19 0:07:38 0:07:34 1 7 0 7:38 7:34 6:56 0 119
20 0:07:39 0:07:36 1 3 0 7:39 7:36 7:01 0 120
21 0:07:54 0:07:52 1 0 0 7:54 7:52 6:29 0 120
22 0:07:43 0:07:38 1 0 7 7:43 7:38 6:57 0 119
23 0:08:07 0:08:03 1 6 0 8:07 8:03 6:24 0 119
24 0:08:18 0:08:17 1 13 30 8:18 8:17 7:07 0 119
25 0:08:52 0:08:48 1 14 0 8:52 8:48 7:51 0 119
26 0:09:14 0:08:58 1 0 11 9:14 8:58 8:04 0 113
27 0:09:46 0:09:43 1 11 0 9:46 9:43 6:52 0 116
28 0:06:33 0:06:31 0.67 10 4 9:49 9:45 5:33 0 79
Summary 3:29:32 3:26:42 26.89 646 645 7:47 7:41 0:55 0 3,189
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
I love to train but I also love to race. Racing is the one time where you can compare yourself to others and see how you stack up.
After my customary pre-race ritual of 64 ounces of coffee and oatmeal I got dressed and my wife delivered me to the marathon venue.
So peaceful it is along the lake and in Grant Park early marathon morning. Runners have their gear bags and all seem at peace with what is about to unfold. Some are nervous as well.
People are flooding into the park from all directions. There would eventually be over 38,000 runners filling Grant Park.
I just look around and take it all in. This is a special moment. This is the culmination of many months of training. For me it was a moment to reflect on how I blended triathlon training with marathon training together. How would this play out?
My legs felt great and my cardiovascular fitness is the best it's ever been. If anything, I was concerned that my leg strength and endurance would lag behind my cardio fitness. Time will tell.
After checking my gear bag I took care of some business and then headed to corral B. Standing there was surreal. You have all of these other athletes there taking in the moment and doing their own pre-race stretching, etc.
I kept track of the weather forcast during the week. It seemed like the temperature during the race was not going to be perfect. But, I figured that the first half of my race would be run with temps in the 60's and the the remainder would be run in temps in the low to mid 70's.
My thought was, "this can't be that bad." Also, the humidity level was going to be nominal. I also had my last two triathlons to draw experience from where the temperatures during the run was mid 90's and very humid.
Standing in the corral just minutes before the start I looked east towards the lake and saw the sun rising. Then I once again got teary eyed that the time was here. This would be it for a while. It would be some time until I would be on the lakefron path with my running friends. The friends I don't know. I only know their faces. The faces of dedication and commitment.
Today I would run with them. This is going to be a great day for a long run.
It was great to hear the starting horn. We all moved forward like cattle at first. Before you know it we are off and running.
My goal was to run the first 13-20 miles at a swift pace and then coast in. I thought, "lets do as many miles as possible at a really good pace before it may get too warm." So, that's what I did.
I was not sure at all what the cruising speed would be. I was going to allow my body to dictate that. My minimum goal was to come in at 3:30 or less. The meant averaging approx 8 minute miles for the race.
It did not take long until I realized that a pace around 7:30 was comfortable. I felt fast and fresh. I was having a ball with the fans lining the street as I high fived as many kids as possible. I was also telling the fans that they would be out there on the marathon course running next year.
The miles were clipping by. I got in a few conversations with others along the way. I asked one girl how she was feeling and then we got in a conversation about triathlons. In a split second she tripped and fell and I stopped to protect her from getting run over. I helped her up and we were off again.
I would run into her several times during the race. It was funny.
I kept myself hydrated and also poured water on myself during the race. This has become a proactive routine as I learned this in my triathlons in the excessive heat. It keeps me cool.
I just kept cruising. No problems whatsoever. My breathing and heart rate were totally under control. I had visions of a 3:20:00 marathon.
But, things changed during mile 23 per my Garmin. I started getting a right hamstring cramp. I've dealt with this exact cramp in this leg before. I would stop and stretch it out. This happened about 5 or 6 times during the last 4 miles. It was bad enough to make me change my running gait. I just wanted to run damn it.
Give me pain. I had pain. I could feel the pain in my quads down to the bone. Fine!! I love pain and can deal with it. My feet hurt. So what!
I know that the mind tricks the body into easing up. The body can do so much more than the mind sometimes lets it. "Break through the obstruction." "Pain is temporary." These were my thoughts.
It's the cramping that really gets me. I am not sure if you can run with cramps or not. What happens if you don't stop and just keep running. My hamstring cramps feel like a charlie horse starting. When I would stop and feel it, it felt like an apple. I would just stretch and go, stretch and go.
Then I started getting worried about not getting in under 3:30:00. I would be so disappointed if that happened. I was not going to let that happen. I had worked to hard all day.
I was running stiff legged trying not to bend my leg too much. My hips were doing most of the work. Running up Roosevelt was slow motion.
Please let me do this.
I made it up the hill with no cramps and turned left towards the finish. My Garmin said, 3:27: something. I'm thinking, "how long can it take to go only 200 meters?" Seemed like forever.
The closer I got the more I had to drag my right leg. But, finally I crossed the finish line and stood there. I walked ever so slowly forward. The Garmin said, 3:29 something.
Whew, I did it! A new PR, another BQ and a NYC Marathon qualification.
I could hardly walk and it took a while to get the medal and refreshments. I was in pain.
I met my wife and we decided to begin our 2 mile walk north to the Bloomingdales building. I think this walk was harder than the run. I could only go so fast which was snails pace. About 1.5 mph, if that.
I did change my shirt, socks and shoes before we walked. My wife wanted me to change my shorts and I was like, "no way Jose." If I bent my legs who knows what would happen. So, I thank my wife for changing my socks and shoes for me.
I had one cramp in my left leg that was strange. It started in/on my shin muscle and it started pulling my foot towards my knee. I did not know what to do. Thank God it went away.
During our walk to Bloomingdales I actually ran into that girl runner who I helped up after her fall. I looked at her and said, "hey, it's my friend." I introduced her to my wife and asked how she did. She was happy and ran a 3:40:00.
Once at the Bloomingdale building I got a large pomagranete frozen yogurt and we went home.
From this experience I learned that I can sustain an excellent pace for a long time. My cardiovascular fitness is terrific. I am not sure why I got such bad cramps but I dealt with them and got the job done.
I look forward to my next challenge.
My splits are below:
The race day, as usual, started early. The Apple I Phone alarm was prompt at delivering it's "old Phone," sounding blare at 3:30 am. "Cool, I was waiting to get up to start this day."
I love to train but I also love to race. Racing is the one time where you can compare yourself to others and see how you stack up.
After my customary pre-race ritual of 64 ounces of coffee and oatmeal I got dressed and my wife delivered me to the marathon venue.
So peaceful it is along the lake and in Grant Park early marathon morning. Runners have their gear bags and all seem at peace with what is about to unfold. Some are nervous as well.
People are flooding into the park from all directions. There would eventually be over 38,000 runners filling Grant Park.
I just look around and take it all in. This is a special moment. This is the culmination of many months of training. For me it was a moment to reflect on how I blended triathlon training with marathon training together. How would this play out?
My legs felt great and my cardiovascular fitness is the best it's ever been. If anything, I was concerned that my leg strength and endurance would lag behind my cardio fitness. Time will tell.
After checking my gear bag I took care of some business and then headed to corral B. Standing there was surreal. You have all of these other athletes there taking in the moment and doing their own pre-race stretching, etc.
I kept track of the weather forcast during the week. It seemed like the temperature during the race was not going to be perfect. But, I figured that the first half of my race would be run with temps in the 60's and the the remainder would be run in temps in the low to mid 70's.
My thought was, "this can't be that bad." Also, the humidity level was going to be nominal. I also had my last two triathlons to draw experience from where the temperatures during the run was mid 90's and very humid.
Standing in the corral just minutes before the start I looked east towards the lake and saw the sun rising. Then I once again got teary eyed that the time was here. This would be it for a while. It would be some time until I would be on the lakefron path with my running friends. The friends I don't know. I only know their faces. The faces of dedication and commitment. Today I would run with them. This is going to be a great day for a long run.
It was great to hear the starting horn. We all moved forward like cattle at first. Before you know it we are off and running.
My goal was to run the first 13-20 miles at a swift pace and then coast in. I thought, "lets do as many miles as possible at a really good pace before it may get too warm." So, that's what I did.
I was not sure at all what the cruising speed would be. I was going to allow my body to dictate that. My minimum goal was to come in 3:30 or less. The meant averaging approx 8 minute miles for the race.
It did not take long until I realized that a pace around 7:30 was comfortable. I felt fast and fresh. I was having a ball with the fans lining the street as I high fived as many kids as possible. I was also telling the fans that they would be out there on the marathon course running next year.
The miles were clipping by. I got in a few conversations with others along the way. I asked one girl how she was feeling and then we got in a conversation about triathlons. In a split second she tripped and fell and I stopped to protect her from getting run over. I helped her up and we were off again.
I would run into her several times during the race. It was funny.
I kept myself hydrated and also poured water on myself during the race. This has become a proactive routine as I learned this in my triathlons in the excessive heat. It keeps me cool.
I just kept cruising. No problems whatsoever. My breathing and heart rate were totally under control. I had visions of a 3:20:00 on my mind.
But, things changed during mile 23 per my Garmin. I started getting a right hamstring cramp. I've dealt with this exact cramp in this leg before. I would stop and stretch it out. This happened about 5 or 6 time during the last 4 miles. It was bad enough to make me change my running gait. I just wanted to run damn it.
Give me pain. I had pain. I could feel the pain in my quads down to the bone. Fine!! I love pain and can deal with it. My feet hurt. So what!
It's the cramping that really gets me. I am not sure if you can run with cramps or not. What happens if you don't stop and just keep running. My hamstring cramps feel like a charlie horse starting. When I would stop and feel it, it felt like an apple. I would just stretch and go, stretch and go.
Then I started getting worried about not getting in under 3:30:00. I would be so disappointed if that happened. I was not going to let that happen. I had worked to hard all day.
I was running stiff legged trying not to bend my leg too much. My hips were doing most of the work. Running up Roosevelt was slow motion. Please let me do this.
I made it up the hill with no cramps and turned left towards the finish. My Garmin said, 3:27: something. I'm thinking, "how long can it take to go only 200 meters?" Seemed like forever.
The closer I got the more I had to drag my right leg. But, finally I crossed the finish line and stood there. I walked ever so slowly forward. The Garmin said, 3:29 something.
Whew, I did it! A new PR, another BQ and a NYC Marathon qualification.
I could hardly walk and it took a while to get the medal and refreshments. I was in pain.
I met my wife and we decided to begin our 2 mile walk north to the Bloomingdales building. I think this walk was harder than the run. I could only go so fast which was snails pace.
I did change my shirt, socks and shoes before we walked. My wife wanted me to change my shorts and I was like, "no way Jose." If I bent my legs who knows what would happen. So, I thank my wife for changing my socks and shoes for me.
I had one cramp in my left leg that was strange. It started in/on my shin muscle and it started pulling my foot towards my knee. I did not know what to do. Thank God it went away.
During our walk to Bloomingdales I actually ran into that girl runner who I helped up after her fall. I looked at her and said, "hey, it's my friend." I introduced her to my wife and asked how she did. She was happy and ran a 3:40:00.
Once at the Bloomingdale building I got a large pomagranete frozen yogurt and we went home.
From this experience I learned that I can sustain an excellent pace for a long time. My cardiovascular fitness is terrific. I am not sure why I got such bad cramps but I dealt with them and got the job done.
I look forward to my next challenge.
The race day, as usual, started early. The Apple I Phone alarm was prompt at delivering it's "old Phone," sounding blare at 3:30 am. "Cool, I was waiting to get up to start this day."
I love to train but I also love to race. Racing is the one time where you can compare yourself to others and see how you stack up.
After my customary pre-race ritual of 64 ounces of coffee and oatmeal I got dressed and my wife delivered me to the marathon venue.
So peaceful it is along the lake and in Grant Park early marathon morning. Runners have their gear bags and all seem at peace with what is about to unfold. Some are nervous as well.
People are flooding into the park from all directions. There would eventually be over 38,000 runners filling Grant Park.
I just look around and take it all in. This is a special moment. This is the culmination of many months of training. For me it was a moment to reflect on how I blended triathlon training with marathon training together. How would this play out?
My legs felt great and my cardiovascular fitness is the best it's ever been. If anything, I was concerned that my leg strength and endurance would lag behind my cardio fitness. Time will tell.
After checking my gear bag I took care of some business and then headed to corral B. Standing there was surreal. You have all of these other athletes there taking in the moment and doing their own pre-race stretching, etc.
I kept track of the weather forcast during the week. It seemed like the temperature during the race was not going to be perfect. But, I figured that the first half of my race would be run with temps in the 60's and the the remainder would be run in temps in the low to mid 70's.
My thought was, "this can't be that bad." Also, the humidity level was going to be nominal. I also had my last two triathlons to draw experience from where the temperatures during the run was mid 90's and very humid.
Standing in the corral just minutes before the start I looked east towards the lake and saw the sun rising. Then I once again got teary eyed that the time was here. This would be it for a while. It would be some time until I would be on the lakefron path with my running friends. The friends I don't know. I only know their faces. The faces of dedication and commitment. Today I would run with them. This is going to be a great day for a long run.
It was great to hear the starting horn. We all moved forward like cattle at first. Before you know it we are off and running.
My goal was to run the first 13-20 miles at a swift pace and then coast in. I thought, "lets do as many miles as possible at a really good pace before it may get too warm." So, that's what I did.
I was not sure at all what the cruising speed would be. I was going to allow my body to dictate that. My minimum goal was to come in 3:30 or less. The meant averaging approx 8 minute miles for the race.
It did not take long until I realized that a pace around 7:30 was comfortable. I felt fast and fresh. I was having a ball with the fans lining the street as I high fived as many kids as possible. I was also telling the fans that they would be out there on the marathon course running next year.
The miles were clipping by. I got in a few conversations with others along the way. I asked one girl how she was feeling and then we got in a conversation about triathlons. In a split second she tripped and fell and I stopped to protect her from getting run over. I helped her up and we were off again.
I would run into her several times during the race. It was funny.
I kept myself hydrated and also poured water on myself during the race. This has become a proactive routine as I learned this in my triathlons in the excessive heat. It keeps me cool.
I just kept cruising. No problems whatsoever. My breathing and heart rate were totally under control. I had visions of a 3:20:00 on my mind.
But, things changed during mile 23 per my Garmin. I started getting a right hamstring cramp. I've dealt with this exact cramp in this leg before. I would stop and stretch it out. This happened about 5 or 6 time during the last 4 miles. It was bad enough to make me change my running gait. I just wanted to run damn it.
Give me pain. I had pain. I could feel the pain in my quads down to the bone. Fine!! I love pain and can deal with it. My feet hurt. So what!
It's the cramping that really gets me. I am not sure if you can run with cramps or not. What happens if you don't stop and just keep running. My hamstring cramps feel like a charlie horse starting. When I would stop and feel it, it felt like an apple. I would just stretch and go, stretch and go.
Then I started getting worried about not getting in under 3:30:00. I would be so disappointed if that happened. I was not going to let that happen. I had worked to hard all day.
I was running stiff legged trying not to bend my leg too much. My hips were doing most of the work. Running up Roosevelt was slow motion. Please let me do this.
I made it up the hill with no cramps and turned left towards the finish. My Garmin said, 3:27: something. I'm thinking, "how long can it take to go only 200 meters?" Seemed like forever.
The closer I got the more I had to drag my right leg. But, finally I crossed the finish line and stood there. I walked ever so slowly forward. The Garmin said, 3:29 something.
Whew, I did it! A new PR, another BQ and a NYC Marathon qualification.
I could hardly walk and it took a while to get the medal and refreshments. I was in pain.
I met my wife and we decided to begin our 2 mile walk north to the Bloomingdales building. I think this walk was harder than the run. I could only go so fast which was snails pace.
I did change my shirt, socks and shoes before we walked. My wife wanted me to change my shorts and I was like, "no way Jose." If I bent my legs who knows what would happen. So, I thank my wife for changing my socks and shoes for me.
I had one cramp in my left leg that was strange. It started in/on my shin muscle and it started pulling my foot towards my knee. I did not know what to do. Thank God it went away.
During our walk to Bloomingdales I actually ran into that girl runner who I helped up after her fall. I looked at her and said, "hey, it's my friend." I introduced her to my wife and asked how she did. She was happy and ran a 3:40:00.
Once at the Bloomingdale building I got a large pomagranete frozen yogurt and we went home.
From this experience I learned that I can sustain an excellent pace for a long time. My cardiovascular fitness is terrific. I am not sure why I got such bad cramps but I dealt with them and got the job done.
I look forward to my next challenge.
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Steps Calories
1 0:06:43 0:05:36 1 115 130 6:43 5:36 0:55 0 92
2 0:01:27 0:01:06 0.23 204 201 6:26 4:52 2:30 0 23
3 0:07:14 0:07:11 1 194 191 7:14 7:11 2:20 0 123
4 0:07:21 0:07:18 1 0 0 7:21 7:18 2:14 0 121
5 0:07:33 0:07:27 1 0 4 7:33 7:27 4:20 0 123
6 0:07:33 0:07:33 1 6 0 7:34 7:33 5:27 0 120
7 0:07:39 0:07:40 1 3 3 7:39 7:40 6:31 0 120
8 0:07:35 0:07:34 1 16 13 7:35 7:34 5:54 0 120
9 0:07:21 0:07:21 1 0 10 7:21 7:21 4:18 0 121
10 0:07:35 0:07:35 1 10 0 7:36 7:35 6:53 0 120
11 0:07:28 0:07:25 1 3 0 7:28 7:25 6:51 0 119
12 0:07:29 0:07:28 1 0 4 7:29 7:28 7:02 0 120
13 0:07:28 0:07:25 1 0 7 7:28 7:25 6:40 0 119
14 0:07:27 0:07:25 1 15 13 7:27 7:25 4:42 0 121
15 0:07:14 0:07:14 1 7 8 7:14 7:14 2:44 0 125
16 0:07:30 0:07:26 1 5 0 7:30 7:26 6:50 0 120
17 0:07:27 0:07:28 1 0 5 7:27 7:28 6:54 0 119
18 0:07:30 0:07:30 1 3 6 7:30 7:30 6:12 0 120
19 0:07:38 0:07:34 1 7 0 7:38 7:34 6:56 0 119
20 0:07:39 0:07:36 1 3 0 7:39 7:36 7:01 0 120
21 0:07:54 0:07:52 1 0 0 7:54 7:52 6:29 0 120
22 0:07:43 0:07:38 1 0 7 7:43 7:38 6:57 0 119
23 0:08:07 0:08:03 1 6 0 8:07 8:03 6:24 0 119
24 0:08:18 0:08:17 1 13 30 8:18 8:17 7:07 0 119
25 0:08:52 0:08:48 1 14 0 8:52 8:48 7:51 0 119
26 0:09:14 0:08:58 1 0 11 9:14 8:58 8:04 0 113
27 0:09:46 0:09:43 1 11 0 9:46 9:43 6:52 0 116
28 0:06:33 0:06:31 0.67 10 4 9:49 9:45 5:33 0 79
Summary 3:29:32 3:26:42 26.89 646 645 7:47 7:41 0:55 0 3,189
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Friday, October 8, 2010
Just Do It!
Good morning.
At this time last year I was filled with excitement and ready to tackle the Chicago Marathon. It is a fun time of year and the culmination of all the months of training coming together for one final burst. All those miles. I had qualifying for the Boston Marathon on my mind. Could I do it?
It's amazing how achieving one major goal can change your life. It all starts with the "thought" and then going for it.
During last years Chicago Marathon I ran the last 1/2 marathon with quads that were killing me. I pushed through several hamstring cramps finishing in 3:35:51 and qualifying for Boston with seconds to spare.
That race gave me so much more confidence in myself. I finally realized that, "I can do this."
Then the year that unfolded for me after the marathon has just been incredible. The success at Chicago made me realize that I can pretty much do or achieve any goal I set my mind on.
I took on a new task: Triathlons. How fun. Another dream, lived.
Most, if not all of my running races and triathlons have been successes. I am not going to go over all the training I've done or bore you with details of each race or event.
The main message here is that where would I be now if I never took that chance or leap of faith. What if I still sat at home watching the Chicago Marathon on TV with the internal desire to run in it. I don't know where I'd be right now.
I am just very happy that I took that first step. There is no stopping me now.
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
At this time last year I was filled with excitement and ready to tackle the Chicago Marathon. It is a fun time of year and the culmination of all the months of training coming together for one final burst. All those miles. I had qualifying for the Boston Marathon on my mind. Could I do it?
It's amazing how achieving one major goal can change your life. It all starts with the "thought" and then going for it.
During last years Chicago Marathon I ran the last 1/2 marathon with quads that were killing me. I pushed through several hamstring cramps finishing in 3:35:51 and qualifying for Boston with seconds to spare.
That race gave me so much more confidence in myself. I finally realized that, "I can do this."
Then the year that unfolded for me after the marathon has just been incredible. The success at Chicago made me realize that I can pretty much do or achieve any goal I set my mind on.
I took on a new task: Triathlons. How fun. Another dream, lived.
Most, if not all of my running races and triathlons have been successes. I am not going to go over all the training I've done or bore you with details of each race or event.
The main message here is that where would I be now if I never took that chance or leap of faith. What if I still sat at home watching the Chicago Marathon on TV with the internal desire to run in it. I don't know where I'd be right now.
I am just very happy that I took that first step. There is no stopping me now.
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Monday, October 4, 2010
Chicago Marathon Week
Good morning.
Well, here we are. It's Chicago Marathon week and the excitement is starting to build.
A light training week this will be.
I feel great and look forward to letting my body glue itself back together. Come race day it should be all systems go.
I had my last sorta long run yesterday. It was an easy effort and I had to hold myself back. My legs wanted to go faster, especially once I hit the Lakefront path. The "passing" gene wanted to take over but I said, shut up legs.
The weather was nice and cool. Still a hat drenching sweat was had.
I was a little surprised by how low my heart rate was for this run. I don't recall ever staying under 120 beats per minute for an entire run. Interesting.
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Avg HR Max HR Steps Calories
1 0:09:38 0:09:25 1 0 6 9:38 9:25 8:09 108 118 0 56
2 0:08:42 0:08:38 1 11 0 8:42 8:38 6:28 114 128 0 53
3 0:08:32 0:08:30 1 2 0 8:32 8:30 6:21 115 127 0 50
4 0:08:43 0:08:29 1 95 114 8:43 8:29 4:15 115 121 0 49
5 0:08:48 0:08:38 1 13 0 8:48 8:38 5:43 115 126 0 47
6 0:08:39 0:08:08 1 6 0 8:39 8:08 7:25 116 136 0 41
7 0:08:48 0:08:28 1 0 3 8:48 8:28 7:25 117 137 0 40
8 0:08:54 0:08:20 1 0 4 8:54 8:20 7:37 117 138 0 41
9 0:08:37 0:08:26 1 8 7 8:37 8:26 7:54 118 129 0 41
10 0:00:02 0:00:03 0.01 0 0 6:55 7:54 8:22 117 117 0 0
Summary 1:19:27 1:17:05 9.01 135 134 8:49 8:33 4:15 114 138 0 418
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Well, here we are. It's Chicago Marathon week and the excitement is starting to build.
A light training week this will be.
I feel great and look forward to letting my body glue itself back together. Come race day it should be all systems go.
I had my last sorta long run yesterday. It was an easy effort and I had to hold myself back. My legs wanted to go faster, especially once I hit the Lakefront path. The "passing" gene wanted to take over but I said, shut up legs.
The weather was nice and cool. Still a hat drenching sweat was had.
I was a little surprised by how low my heart rate was for this run. I don't recall ever staying under 120 beats per minute for an entire run. Interesting.
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Avg HR Max HR Steps Calories
1 0:09:38 0:09:25 1 0 6 9:38 9:25 8:09 108 118 0 56
2 0:08:42 0:08:38 1 11 0 8:42 8:38 6:28 114 128 0 53
3 0:08:32 0:08:30 1 2 0 8:32 8:30 6:21 115 127 0 50
4 0:08:43 0:08:29 1 95 114 8:43 8:29 4:15 115 121 0 49
5 0:08:48 0:08:38 1 13 0 8:48 8:38 5:43 115 126 0 47
6 0:08:39 0:08:08 1 6 0 8:39 8:08 7:25 116 136 0 41
7 0:08:48 0:08:28 1 0 3 8:48 8:28 7:25 117 137 0 40
8 0:08:54 0:08:20 1 0 4 8:54 8:20 7:37 117 138 0 41
9 0:08:37 0:08:26 1 8 7 8:37 8:26 7:54 118 129 0 41
10 0:00:02 0:00:03 0.01 0 0 6:55 7:54 8:22 117 117 0 0
Summary 1:19:27 1:17:05 9.01 135 134 8:49 8:33 4:15 114 138 0 418
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Friday, October 1, 2010
New Kittens
Hello October.
Sitting comfortably in my favorite worn brown leather chair with the sun slowly making it's ascent over the houserizon, I have the essentials. With hot black coffee in hand and Chico curled on my lap it's almost time to move my position. The Sun, currently shaded and filtered by trees will soon flood my home with it's blinding light.
I enjoy this scenario every day.
A new twist is the addition of baby kittens that were born and living under our deck. They areonly about a week old. This is not the first litter of kitties to call our backyard home. It happens a few times a year.
One day I walk out of the basement door and there is mommy cat laying under one of our rose bushes letting the little ones nurse. There were four kittens but now there are only three. I had afeeling something was wrong with one of them.
His eyes were not open like the others. He was smaller too. One day I look out towards the deck from my chair and there he is on the deck. How did he get up here? He is so tiny. I kept my eye on him. I don't like to interfer with nature. He wanted his mom. He would pace back and forth. I was so worried he would go to the edge of the deck and fall 10 feet to the ground.
I could not take it anymore. I got a towel, went out there and picked him up and delivered him back with the others.
The next day the same thing happened. My thought was that the mother was separating him from the others because something was wrong. She wanted to keep the other three kittens protected and healthy.
Again, I kept my eye on him. This was tough. He would go right to the edge of the deck and somehow knew to stop. Whew, that was close. Then he would wander to another edge, stop. Whew. I again could not take it. I went out there and re-delivered the errant kitty.
Next I blocked the stairs so he could not climb them, if that's what he was doing. Maybe the mom was carrying him up here.
Well, I have not seen him since. I also only see three healthy little ones now. Perhaps nature took it's course.
I love watching them grow up and have enjoyed watching many kittens grow up over the years. Soon they will venture to the top of our deck and play. This is entertainment for Barclay and Chico.
I consider them all my friends. One of the previous kittens was one I named Callico because of his colors. He showed up the other day on our deck. It was so good to see him. Being only a few months old he's looking good.
Yesterday, I went for a nice relaxing 8 miler.
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Avg HR Max HR Steps Calories
1 0:09:30 0:08:59 1 0 6 9:30 8:59 1:36 113 125 0 60
2 0:08:27 0:08:24 1 11 0 8:28 8:24 6:42 126 133 0 62
3 0:08:30 0:08:25 1 3 0 8:30 8:25 6:39 127 132 0 59
4 0:08:31 0:08:28 1 0 13 8:31 8:28 7:01 125 128 0 53
5 0:08:32 0:08:30 1 14 0 8:32 8:30 5:27 128 134 0 57
6 0:08:30 0:08:29 1 0 2 8:30 8:29 7:15 131 135 0 58
7 0:08:28 0:08:29 1 0 4 8:28 8:29 7:05 132 137 0 56
8 0:08:28 0:08:26 1 0 6 8:28 8:26 7:31 133 142 0 55
9 0:00:20 0:00:19 0.04 0 0 9:01 8:29 8:31 132 133 0 1
Summary 1:09:19 1:08:29 8.04 27 32 8:37 8:31 1:36 126 142 0 461
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
Sitting comfortably in my favorite worn brown leather chair with the sun slowly making it's ascent over the houserizon, I have the essentials. With hot black coffee in hand and Chico curled on my lap it's almost time to move my position. The Sun, currently shaded and filtered by trees will soon flood my home with it's blinding light.
I enjoy this scenario every day.
A new twist is the addition of baby kittens that were born and living under our deck. They areonly about a week old. This is not the first litter of kitties to call our backyard home. It happens a few times a year.
One day I walk out of the basement door and there is mommy cat laying under one of our rose bushes letting the little ones nurse. There were four kittens but now there are only three. I had afeeling something was wrong with one of them.
His eyes were not open like the others. He was smaller too. One day I look out towards the deck from my chair and there he is on the deck. How did he get up here? He is so tiny. I kept my eye on him. I don't like to interfer with nature. He wanted his mom. He would pace back and forth. I was so worried he would go to the edge of the deck and fall 10 feet to the ground.
I could not take it anymore. I got a towel, went out there and picked him up and delivered him back with the others.
The next day the same thing happened. My thought was that the mother was separating him from the others because something was wrong. She wanted to keep the other three kittens protected and healthy.
Again, I kept my eye on him. This was tough. He would go right to the edge of the deck and somehow knew to stop. Whew, that was close. Then he would wander to another edge, stop. Whew. I again could not take it. I went out there and re-delivered the errant kitty.
Next I blocked the stairs so he could not climb them, if that's what he was doing. Maybe the mom was carrying him up here.
Well, I have not seen him since. I also only see three healthy little ones now. Perhaps nature took it's course.
I love watching them grow up and have enjoyed watching many kittens grow up over the years. Soon they will venture to the top of our deck and play. This is entertainment for Barclay and Chico.
I consider them all my friends. One of the previous kittens was one I named Callico because of his colors. He showed up the other day on our deck. It was so good to see him. Being only a few months old he's looking good.
Yesterday, I went for a nice relaxing 8 miler.
Split Time Moving Time Distance Elevation Gain Elevation Loss Avg Pace Avg Moving Pace Best Pace Avg HR Max HR Steps Calories
1 0:09:30 0:08:59 1 0 6 9:30 8:59 1:36 113 125 0 60
2 0:08:27 0:08:24 1 11 0 8:28 8:24 6:42 126 133 0 62
3 0:08:30 0:08:25 1 3 0 8:30 8:25 6:39 127 132 0 59
4 0:08:31 0:08:28 1 0 13 8:31 8:28 7:01 125 128 0 53
5 0:08:32 0:08:30 1 14 0 8:32 8:30 5:27 128 134 0 57
6 0:08:30 0:08:29 1 0 2 8:30 8:29 7:15 131 135 0 58
7 0:08:28 0:08:29 1 0 4 8:28 8:29 7:05 132 137 0 56
8 0:08:28 0:08:26 1 0 6 8:28 8:26 7:31 133 142 0 55
9 0:00:20 0:00:19 0.04 0 0 9:01 8:29 8:31 132 133 0 1
Summary 1:09:19 1:08:29 8.04 27 32 8:37 8:31 1:36 126 142 0 461
-----
" Beyond the very extreme of fatigue and distress, we may find amounts of ease and power we never dreamed ourselves to own, sources of strength never taxed at all because we never push through the obstruction."
* It takes courage to push yourself to places that you have never been before... to test your limits... to break through barriers. And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin
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