tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22124539866262885592024-03-04T21:17:33.028-08:00Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge 2012A blog about my journey to raising $8,700 to support the work of the Dana-Farber Institute and run the 2012 Boston Marathon in honor of my dad, John H. SchickJohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-33031878707609795482012-04-23T19:56:00.001-07:002012-04-23T20:09:19.224-07:00Well, That Happened<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNRpKSd1OLFSHhMeshykiHf2yP10Cf3CabhK-VkKYHgcMAlvuGTlx94O54h7Yit2Jwje4xwnk6k0Y-LlJeUjiY0Va46Mey2hsMztFvM-Z_kZ5XhRHw9gf6nqHfmuIrqB5ebm4_e1-wkhlQ/s1600/photo+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNRpKSd1OLFSHhMeshykiHf2yP10Cf3CabhK-VkKYHgcMAlvuGTlx94O54h7Yit2Jwje4xwnk6k0Y-LlJeUjiY0Va46Mey2hsMztFvM-Z_kZ5XhRHw9gf6nqHfmuIrqB5ebm4_e1-wkhlQ/s1600/photo+(3).JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 15pt;">It's taken me a week to get
around to try and wrap this up. A week because I wasn't really sure what
I wanted to say. A week in which a new abbreviation has entered into my running
vocabulary. A week in which I've been more tired than after any race I've
ever done, including Ironman Canada. So, now I suppose it's time to come to
terms with a day that will live on in running history books. After training so
hard for so long, it came down to the day, and the day was a bear.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 15pt;"><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"> Let me just say that running in 89
degree heat in April is tough, it's damn tough, especially if you come from the
Pacific Northwest where the highest recorded temp in the past 6 months was
close to 60 and that was a one time affair. It's not like we weren't
warned because we were. The Boston Athletic Association
was practically begging people not to run. I</span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 15pt;"> </span><s><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 15pt;">think</span></s><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 15pt;"> </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 15pt;">know there are people who wish they would
have listened to that advice. There were over 2,000 people treated for
heat exhaustion and dehydration and I passed by a dozen or so people being
wheeled off the course on stretchers with IV bags dangling.</span><br />
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-size: 15pt;">My day started out well enough, I got a
reasonable night's sleep, made it to the Boston Commons in time to catch the
bus to Hopkington. I was the last one on the bus which I took as a good sign. I
had read the article in the</span><span style="font-size: 15pt;"> </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-size: 15pt;"><a href="http://www.bellinghamherald.com/2012/04/15/2482689/community-sports-bellingham-runner.html#storylink=misearch"><span style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Bellingham Herald</span></a></span><span style="font-size: 15pt;"> </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-size: 15pt;">before
leaving the apartment, but was pleasantly surprised to see on the bus ride,
while checking my email, that two donations were made because of the article
already. I had ridden on the same bus as Ray Leone, from Blaine, and talked
with him a bit before heading to the church where the Dana-Farber people were
set up only a block from the starting line. It was nice to be in the shade
relaxing and rolling out muscles with the stick. I lubed up every place I could
find, made it to the starting line on time this year and started with thousands
of other runners in mid 70 degree weather that just kept getting hotter and
hotter as we ran.</span><span style="font-size: 15pt;"><br />
</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: Times; font-size: 15pt;"> </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-size: 15pt;">It took about a mile and a
half for it to open up enough to get some running room. It was hot from the
start but not too bad. At least it didn't seem so at first. My body had a hard
time adjusting all day. I was thirsty and knew that I needed to drink and ended
up hitting every station and then adding on with bystanders. On the other hand,
I felt bloated, like the water wasn't going anywhere. The only time I felt
halfway normal was either being hosed off or when I got ice. I stuck to my
perpetuem and water but the perpetuem that I expected to last the whole race
was disappearing at an alarming rate.</span><span style="font-size: 15pt;"><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"> By mile 6 or so I could tell it
was going to be a long day. I still felt good, but it was so hot. You
could just feel it sapping everything out. Going in, I knew I wouldn't be
able to run the race I had trained for so it was a matter of compromising as I
went. By mile 6 a 8:45 pace seemed reasonable and sustainable but it
slowly started inching its way upward. The girls of Wellesley were
as loud as ever and were there before I remembered them from last year.</span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">Diane and my sister, Cindi, were waiting for me
at the halfway point with drinks and I was still feeling good by the time I saw
them, but it was so damn hot.</span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-size: 15pt;">By 14.5 miles, I took my
first walking break through an aid station. It was to be the first of
many. I started walking on any hills and then through most of the aid
stations. I started running all of the hills of Newton but ended up
walking on all of them. I did a lot of walking over the last 10 miles. It
was very humbling but I was in a lot of company. How embarrassing to
be walking during the Boston Marathon. Every time I walked I was embarrassed,
but it was what it was. Man that was hard.<br />
The spectators and volunteers were absolutely fantastic all day. The people who
brought out ice, the people with orange slices, the people with their garden
hoses, and their spray bottles, and soaker guns.<br />
Just like last year, the most enthusiastic cheering was at Boston College where
they had a lot of time to drink a LOT of beer. One girl was chasing me
calling my name. I walked by, she called my name, and then the next thing
I know 20 yards down the road she was running by me telling me to get going.
When I did she ran with me for a hundred yards or so calling my name.<br />
Pretty funny.<br />
Highlight of the day - taking an orange slice from the first of 5
or 6 girls aged 8-10 along the road and then making an orange smile for the
last two girls. I thought I would surprise them and get a laugh. The last
laugh was on me though after they calmly raised their soaker guns and hosed me
down.<br />
The orange smile was a hit wherever I did it.<br />
The Dana Farber singlet was huge because there were so many many people
cheering me on. It seemed like over 100 thanked me. Thanked ME.<br />
It didn't get any easier but the miles kept rolling on by. The Citgo sign
was a welcome sign even though I knew it was still a mile and a half
away. I was determined not to walk during the last mile so I took a good
long walk at the aid station by the Citgo sign and then ramped it up. Knowing
it was the last mile made it easier but the spectators really pulled us in.
There were so many people walking the last part I think I reeled in a hundred
or more, but it didn't matter at that point. I told myself as the mile started
that this one was for John H and it passed by in a happy blur. </span><span style="font-size: 15pt;"><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"> It was the end of a
long process of training and fundraising coming to a successful conclusion and
I was happy about it. As I walked the several blocks down to collect my bag it
was one happy feeling. </span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"> When I retrieved my phone there were
already quite a few congratulatory texts from friends. I guess news travels
fast. The Dana Farber recovery zone was quite a deal. There were changing
rooms and some kind of wet/dry towels to wipe off with. There were about
50 massage tables set up. I got a massage with two different people at the same
time. That's a first. There was great chicken soup and a sandwich spread with
great potato salad and lots of cookies and brownies and such. Plenty of other
runners to sit and talk with and share stories of the heat.<br />
All in all quite an experience. A race for the ages. One
made much more special by the circumstances- the fundraising, the heat, the
setting, the newspaper article. Interesting to involve so many people in the
endeavor. Until yesterday I didn't know what a PW was. Runners always
talk about their PR's. (Personal Records) Come to find out that a PW is a
Personal Worst and many people had them on April 16, 2012 including me. This
was 10 minutes slower than my first marathon and over a half hour slower than
last year's Boston experience. The good news is that I was able to finish
and I managed to stay out of the medical tent; anything less would have been
hard to take given the circumstances so I'll take it and move on.</span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"> A huge thank you to all who
have contributed to this cause. You have inspired me with your generosity
and your caring. It was quite an experience for me to have been part of
something so much bigger than myself. I will never forget it and take
many great life lessons away.</span><br />
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</span></span></div>Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-84589258013668409242012-04-16T03:26:00.000-07:002012-04-16T03:26:43.382-07:00Off to the RacesSome last thoughts as I head to catch my bus.<br />
John H. Schick, and all other cancer patients and surviviors, but especially you dad;<br />
this is for you.<br />
It looks like the running gods have thrown us a curve ball today. Of course, that's nothing new for you. Your life has been full of curveballs since your diagnosis, right.<br />
Today's temperatures are supposed to be close to 90 degrees. The Boston Athletic Association is almost begging runners not to run today. The words of Lisa Bentley, the 6 time, or whatever, Ironman champ who I met before doing Ironman Canada ring in my ears, "Finish what you start."<br />
That along with the tunes of Sweet Caroline, from yesterday's Red Sox game ring in my ears as I leave and start the walk to the bus which will take me to Hopkington.<br />
Today's "race" is about survival, just like your lives lately.<br />
Michelle Nolans article in today's Herald is one I like except for one phrase, "He hopes Bellingham's running community will support him." <br />
They have supported me like nobody's business and I'm very proud of that.<br />
So,<br />
it's off to the races, "Good times never felt so good." So good, So good!Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-53858317591684431522012-04-13T06:56:00.001-07:002012-04-13T06:57:31.900-07:00Danger on the HorizonDanger lurks at the Boston Marathon! The weather forecast looks terrible with a high temperature of 84 degrees in Boston on Monday. The start at Hopkington is slated to be around 80 degrees at 10am.<br />
This does not bode well for anybody. All predictions of finishing times go out the window and it becomes a matter of survival. There will be busloads of people who are unable to finish and many will be taken for medical care. In 2007 the Chicago Marathon was <b>stopped</b> after 3 and a half hours when officials determined it was too dangerous. They actually stopped the race and pulled people off of the course. The high temperature on that day was 88.<br />
The Boston Marathon has been run the past 115 consecutive years and there have been days this hot or hotter in the past. As I've read the history of the race, I've often wondered, "what would it be like to run on one of those days.?" It looks like I'm about to find out.<br />
So, danger lurks but so does adventure. This might be one for the history books.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-28955977342944066842012-04-10T06:45:00.004-07:002012-04-10T07:00:22.509-07:00What's it like to run the Boston Marathon?<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222;">Last year </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222;">someone, actually his name is Ben Swee, ran with a camera during the Boston</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222;"> Marathon and took a LOT of pictures. He posted 400 of them to Facebook. I copied about half of them and have posted them at the link below. There were so many things to see on the run and I forgot so many of them. Looking at these photos was a great refresher. So many times I said, "oh yeah I saw that, or oh, I forgot about that (I mean really, how can you forget Santa Clause?)." From the kids handing out licorice, giving high 5s, handing out oranges and wet towels to the many families out on the lawn enjoying another Patriots Day - to the ramped up college kids at Wellsely and Boston</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222;"> College - what a special day.</span></span><br />
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">So know that there are a lot of photos here and plan on going through them quickly, but you will truly get a sense of what it was like out there last year during the 115th Boston Marathon.</span></div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Enjoy,</span></div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">John</span></div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-size: 13px;"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/johnschick55/BostonMarathonFacebookPhotos?authkey=Gv1sRgCN-rus2R68P_ngE#" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">https://picasaweb.google.com/<wbr></wbr>johnschick55/<wbr></wbr>BostonMarathonFacebookPhotos?<wbr></wbr>authkey=Gv1sRgCN-rus2R68P_ngE#</span></a></div><div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</div>Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-90794654590322009022012-04-08T21:41:00.000-07:002012-04-08T21:41:05.492-07:00Easy SqueezyWell, the 12 miles pretty much flew by and I found myself holding myself back most of the way. It was a gorgeous sunny day and a wonderful last medium-long run. It seemed so easy, it seems maybe I am ready.<br />
Easter dinner with incredible friends and now it's off to bed and then off to work tomorrow.<br />
Tuesday will be a 6 mile recovery run.<br />
Wednesday 7 miles with 2 at Marathon pace. ( a dress rehearsal)<br />
Friday 4 recovery miles<br />
Sunday 3 easy miles with some strides thrown in.<br />
Monday - the big day.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-92190204251070336882012-04-08T11:03:00.000-07:002012-04-08T11:03:39.438-07:00A Celebratory Lap?I'm off to run my last "long run." Who would have thought 12 miles would be a big deal? It's a beautiful sunny day and I'm wearing my race day outfit. It's sure to get some smiles with the wild green color scheme of the Dana Farber singlet. My mantra (said only to myself) when I pass people who raise their eyebrows? "See you in Boston next week."<br />
Off we go!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6PTj8QLxyaJeB4d1hTs86lvImHhlRcpd4W_7Yd0wml6y7CwDlbsCTbpjYM1IhiRWWvTEoGRXDfde22W05v8cz1ogtK_O3gxm0FiNbwbGMiCJWRiyIFCTKR3HFFY44LC-lnzk9-yXMaxm/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6PTj8QLxyaJeB4d1hTs86lvImHhlRcpd4W_7Yd0wml6y7CwDlbsCTbpjYM1IhiRWWvTEoGRXDfde22W05v8cz1ogtK_O3gxm0FiNbwbGMiCJWRiyIFCTKR3HFFY44LC-lnzk9-yXMaxm/s320/photo+(1).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-45770789008522541582012-04-06T20:03:00.000-07:002012-04-06T20:03:20.814-07:00What? Only 5 miles? Slow pace? What?I tell you what, not being able to run, run, run, is not easy after so much training. I went to Harrison Hot Springs yesterday in Canada and soaked for over 3 and a half hours. Soak, sleep, soak, read, sleep, soak, rest, soak...... I was there for 6 and a half hours and left feeling like a noodle.<br />
I was looking forward to an 8 mile run today only to discover that it was actually only supposed to be 5 miles at a recovery pace with 6 100 meter strides thrown in. <br />
To change things up a bit, I decided to head to Lake Padden for a couple of laps. What a joy it was to run there with the sun shining and the trails not too crowded at all. At one point on the wooded side of the lake, after looking ahead and behind to make sure no one was watching, I was overcome with joy.<br />
It was so much fun to be running on such a beautiful day in such a gorgeous place. U2 was playing "It's a Beautiful Day" on the Ipod and I started waving my arms around and celebrating the day, the process, and the good things that lie ahead in the next 10 days.<br />
No running tomorrow, but it's the first day of rowing and I'm planning on getting out on the water.<br />
Sunday will be 12 miles at long run pace and then not much after.<br />
Some runners will tell you that the taper is the hardest part of the training. Mysterious ailments pop up when you cut back on your running and they can really start to play with your head. That's why it's so nice to able to savor the runs when they do occur.<br />
So, it was only 5 miles, but they were great ones and I think I'll be ok for another day or two.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-87491409429488350122012-04-05T08:05:00.003-07:002012-04-05T08:10:05.024-07:00Time to Welcome the Newest Member of the Family<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK7mYGYqCHYTp2OoGmQdSW0IfPNrRnKd7LTfRnoisa6pePuarXT6lnwEdkrWmSmFb8nzW9N-j1Yf8APMIGg_pvvkDH1BiasAu4QvrIx73ulGuHhWzv_CuvP_FYeqUDJsSUVDHj70qYAcPn/s1600/DSC_0182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK7mYGYqCHYTp2OoGmQdSW0IfPNrRnKd7LTfRnoisa6pePuarXT6lnwEdkrWmSmFb8nzW9N-j1Yf8APMIGg_pvvkDH1BiasAu4QvrIx73ulGuHhWzv_CuvP_FYeqUDJsSUVDHj70qYAcPn/s320/DSC_0182.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">These are my race day shoes. They are the newest members</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPSL5HBSVtqCe7sshmLBUTTVc0Fk45d92M8n1p-G_XbxOh6_GawD2O3wS4GJqcqwJHIThfpAkWV3NW2k8xZF2aueelNdeUDS1N76NsxYsDeNdLvEMJtroVOaucIJ5h3ybfj6cdBp3HVHMK/s1600/DSC_0184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPSL5HBSVtqCe7sshmLBUTTVc0Fk45d92M8n1p-G_XbxOh6_GawD2O3wS4GJqcqwJHIThfpAkWV3NW2k8xZF2aueelNdeUDS1N76NsxYsDeNdLvEMJtroVOaucIJ5h3ybfj6cdBp3HVHMK/s320/DSC_0184.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">of the stable.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><h2><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large; text-align: -webkit-auto;">The taper continues</span></h2><div style="font-family: arial; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Tuesday I was happy to run with Rick on the normal 4:15 waterfront run. A nicely paced 5 miles with a good chance to catch up on things. Wednesday's track workout was interesting.</div><div style="font-family: arial; text-align: -webkit-auto;">It was supposed to be a 8 mile run with 3 X 1600 meters at 5k pace. Since we are on our Spring Break I had no idea when the local high schools would be working out on the tracks around town. I planned to run from home to the Squalicum track to warmup, run the repeats, and then run home. I had a fear that I would get there and the Squalicum team would be using the track but I couldn't think of a better alternative. I crested the hill on Chandler Parkway and was happy to see that the track was empty. As I got on the track I was not so happy to see a coach walking down the stairs with some cones in his hand and notice all of the cars in the parking lot. As I finished my first set of strides out came the team from their meeting ready to start their workout. It looked like my timing couldn't have been worse but when I asked a coach if I could use the outside lane, he said, "Sure, you'll be OK." In the end, it worked out well.</div><div style="font-family: arial; text-align: -webkit-auto;">This was really the last hard run of the program. Now the nerves are starting to amp up a bit.</div><div style="font-family: arial; text-align: -webkit-auto;">In the afternoon I met a journalist from the Bellingham Herald for an interview about the marathon and fundraising process. The story should run either next Monday or on race day itself.</div><div style="font-family: arial; text-align: -webkit-auto;">My current fundraising is at $7,150 which seems pretty remarkable to me.</div><div style="font-family: arial; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Thursday is a rest day, so rest I will. It's up to Harrison Hot Springs for a long, long soak.</div><br />
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</div>Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-84277843290260898202012-04-02T22:43:00.001-07:002012-04-05T08:08:37.927-07:0016 Miles and What Do You Get?Well, the last long run of the program is over and, I have to say, coming the day after a tough race effort, it was a hard run and I'm feeling a bit beat up. My calves are quite tight and I'm tired. But the true taper starts now.<br />
After the many weeks of 50 plus miles, this next week will be 32.<br />
After so many 12, 13, 14 mile mid-week runs, the longest this mid-week will be 8<br />
After so many 18,19, 20 mile long Sunday runs, this one will be 12<br />
After so many 5 day running weeks, this one will only be 4<br />
My body knows it's time to rest and to heal. I'm in as good a running shape as I've ever been - now it's time to take care of myself and truly savor the remaining 8 runs before Patriot's Day.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-46982706243073731602012-04-01T22:02:00.001-07:002012-04-02T22:44:16.213-07:00Well, That was Fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW68Yi7KnOvp-PPeQlgGPO-h5Alp4TOYKR791VZQS9GyndUEVgjpXplNDuDn1BWgSlRS1ePh0YlxBNe2y8You-UPvCbym7QLSHgAdkvvik42tqMw_NhvdxpHgaYx_iRlVzZPhBVEtZe-tN/s1600/DSC_0175.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW68Yi7KnOvp-PPeQlgGPO-h5Alp4TOYKR791VZQS9GyndUEVgjpXplNDuDn1BWgSlRS1ePh0YlxBNe2y8You-UPvCbym7QLSHgAdkvvik42tqMw_NhvdxpHgaYx_iRlVzZPhBVEtZe-tN/s320/DSC_0175.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mr. Pfitzinger's plan calls for a third and final tune-up race of 8-10k two weeks out from the marathon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was in Seattle seeing out of town friends and had agreed to take them to the airport on Saturday so I registered for the 10k trail run at Dash Point State Park Saturday morning. Somehow it's not exactly the kind of race that I think Mr. Pfitzenger had in mind when he wrote the plan.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The run was advertised as single track non-technical trails. The course was a lollipop shape with a 10k, which was one loop, a half-marathon which was 2 loops, and a full marathon which was 4 loops. The marathon started at 9:00, the half at 9:15, and us short timers at 9:30. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We've been deluged with rain the past week (Seattle set a one-day record for the date on Thursday) and Saturday was really no exception. The ride to the airport was heavy downpour, the ride to the race was heavy downpour, and the warmup was light downpour. The trails were good and muddy. I knew that this good be a dangerous time only two weeks out from the marathon. How easy it would be to slip in the mud and pull something, or to twist an ankle. My main mantra for the day was, "don't get hurt."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well, I have to say it was a blast. The trail did get a bit crowded when we started passing some of the slower half-marathon runners because it definitely was single-track trail and it was tricky for passing. I'm not sure I would call it non-technical at all really. There were enough roots to keep you honest and there were a few places where a slip or fall could have taken you for quite a ride in the woods. The trail was quite cambered in places and also had many quick short turns.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After running in a straight line for so many miles while training this was a blast, bringing out the trail runner in me. It really brought home the fact that I am a trail runner at heart blasting down the downhills and jumping over obstacles. I felt like I ran really strong and it brought out the kid in me, especially some of the muddier places. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm happy to say that there were no injuries although my left calf is quite tight and I'm working on rolling it out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Tomorrow's 16 miler is really the last long run of the program. It's pretty unbelievable to think that I've actually made it through the program and that I only have 9 more runs to go with all of them being pretty short after tomorrow.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Bellingham Herald, in a story about the new trail running series in town described trail runners as explorers and road runners as warriors. For one day, at least, it was great to be both.</div>Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-29482119643584757492012-03-28T20:12:00.000-07:002012-03-28T20:12:40.415-07:00Savoring the taper runsI've started the taper - it's just what it sounds like, the runs get shorter, the mileage is less, there are more rest days. The hard work is done and now it's time to heal up, maintain the fitness, and mentally prepare.<br />
One thing I've found in the past while tapering is that the runs get so much sweeter. After racking up the mileage for the past 4 months, running 12 mile runs here, 14 milers there, now it comes down to only having 11 more runs before the big day. Only 11 more times to run. As the nerves start to ramp up, running is the best way to calm them down.<br />
I was pleasantly surprised last night to find my legs feeling fresh after a 35 mile weekend. I ran 8 miles which included 5 X 600 meter repeats at 5k pace. Tonight was 6 miles at a recovery run pace. That means very slow and easy.<br />
Tomorrow is a day off, Friday is a 4 mile recovery run with some 100 meter strides thrown in and then my last tune up race. This will be a 10k race in Federal Way which I picked since I'll be in Seattle Friday night visiting friends.<br />
One last semi-long run remains - that will be on Sunday at 16 miles. After that the runs get short and sweet, oh so sweet.<br />
My fundraising took a drastic turn for the better tonight when my aunt sent a check for $1,000.<br />
That takes my total from $6,000 to $7,000 in one fell swoop. Wow!<br />
Also, apparently the local paper, the Bellingham Herald, is going to run a profile on me. Or at least that's what the phone message was from the staff photographer looking for photos of me running.<br />
Things are coming together in a big way and April 16th will be here before we know it.<br />
I'll keep savoring every run while I can.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-81923468094084233412012-03-25T14:35:00.000-07:002012-03-25T14:35:19.456-07:00The Hay is in the BarnThere were times it wasn't easy, but I always knew I would make it. Today's 20 mile run is the culmination of a hell of a lot of training over the past 15 weeks. Now it's on to the taper. After running near to, at, or over 50 miles a week for the past 8 weeks, now it's time to cut back. Next week will be 43 miles, the week after 32, and then 22. Or it might be less. The key to tapering is that, "less is more." I won't be afraid to take off an extra day if I feel like I need it. The work is done, now it's time for these nagging little muscle aches and pains to heal up and to get ready for the big day, which is three weeks away from tomorrow.<br />
Today's 20 mile run was a grand affair, feeling good, holding my pace and running on a day made to order. This is the kind of day when nothing on earth would make you want to live anywhere else.<br />
Mt. Baker and the Twin Sisters were out, the entire Olympic Range was out in full force, and the bay was absolutely beautiful.<br />
Our college basketball team are national champions of Division 2, the sun is shining, the hay is in the barn, and life is good.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-86438124149917779742012-03-25T08:40:00.000-07:002012-03-25T08:40:16.350-07:00The Last Big PushWeek 15 panned out much better than week 14 ever could. Tuesday's run was a delightful run along the water with Rick and Paul. Wednesday's 10 miler included 4 X 1200 meters on the track and Friday's 11 mile run from work was very satisfying. Yesterday's 4 mile recovery run seemed so short it barely registered, except for being out at the beginning of a gorgeous day. My eyes have healed up well, my cough is still lingering but not affecting my running and I'm feeling good.<br />
I'm just getting ready to head out the door to run my last 20 mile run of the training program. It's another beautiful day although it's only 35 degrees at the moment. That will warm up fairly soon though. This is the last big push before the taper starts. I'm excited, nervous, and ready to go. Wish me well.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-56962441387361575952012-03-18T21:37:00.002-07:002012-03-18T21:40:25.097-07:00What a Bizarre Week its BeenWell, they don't seem to come much stranger than this. Can't go into all the details but, Wednesday's work day didn't materialize when I was unable to sleep after 1:30am and then, by the time work rolled around, I was feeling sick again, never mind that the dog had gotten us up at 3:30 puking up chunks of wood that he'd snuck in before coming to bed. That is a life threatening situation for him since he's had two surgeries on his intestinal track for eating foreign objects.<br />
So, no work on Wednesday but did have to take the dog to the vet and have him spend the day having tests done. He's OK<br />
Thursday was a must go to work day because of a big reading promotion event. Had to make it. Felt good, but did wake up with an irritated right eye that was oozing a small amount of liquid. The eye got worse as the day went on as did the left eye. By the time I left work, I looked like I'd just come off of a big binge. What to do? Go for a run, that's what. 4 somewhat easy miles felt pretty good.<br />
Thursday going to bed hoping that the eyes will clear up overnight. Knowing that they won't.<br />
Waking up at 2:30 with it hard to open my eyes, looking in the mirror to see a terrible mugshot.<br />
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<br />
Off to school at 3:45 in the morning to write sub plans and take care of things that had been put off all week. Came home at 5:15 in time to go back to bed.<br />
Doctor's appointment at 10:15, visit to opthamologist after. Diagnosis of bacterial infection.<br />
Several prescriptions but luckily they gave me a sample of the main one so I didn't need to be seen in public. Diane picked up the rest at 5:00. Nothing to do but put in eye drops every 2 hours and hope for the best. What to do? Run - easy 3 miles with some strides.<br />
So, the big question:<br />
Should I still go and run the 5 mile race on Saturday that I've already registered for and paid my $20?<br />
I was determined not to let this thing distract from my training but I didn't know if, after being sick for 3 days, I should be doing this or not. Especially because the weather forecast was not that spectacular.<br />
Got up Saturday to light rain, ate a piece of toast with peanut butter and half a banana. Standard eating fare at least an hour before running and headed downtown. My plan was to get there early, pick up my stuff while no one was around, go hang out in the car where no one could see me and run up at the beginning of the race.<br />
One of those days - I couldn't find my keys, I couldn't find........<br />
End result - I got there a half hour before the race just like everyone else. I was wearing a hat, so that helped hide me a bit. But I had to stand in a line for 20 minutes under the Market Depot coverage with a ton of other people. Head down staring at lots of people's shoes not wanting to be recognized. Weird feeling for sure.<br />
Got my bib and chip - time now 9:50. Big line of people behind me still. Off to car. Weather now turns to heavy rain, snow, and then chunky rain. I'm thinking, "I'm crazy and I'm going to end up getting sick again." I actually closed the car door and was ready to head home. Then the rain lightened up just long enough to get me a couple of blocks into a warmup run and then in it started up heavy again. I was committed by then. <br />
The race didn't start until about 10:20. The people that I saw, I was able to say hi and avert my eyes so it all worked out.<br />
The good news was that the race actually went very well. I was hoping to hold 7 minute miles on a deceptively hard course but wasn't sure I could do it, especially after being in bed for three days this week.<br />
End result - 7:05 pace and it felt quite good. A real confidence booster indeed. No need for after race food and socializing for me. A mile cooldown run to the car and then home. <br />
Sunday's run was scheduled for 17 fairly easy miles. It was actually a very good run, a little hard in parts but pretty good overall. At about mile 10 I remember thinking that it felt like I was getting stronger as I went then I thought, "It's the caffeine in the Perpetuum drink, you dummy." Oh well, whatever. I felt like I finished strong.<br />
Only two more long runs left. Next Sunday is the last 20 miler and then the following week, I'll do a 10k on Saturday and then 16 on Sunday, 12 the following Sunday and then it's off to Boston.<br />
Good news is that my eyes are getting much better and by tomorrow I expect I'll look halfway normal. <br />
What an interesting week this was, and there's other stuff that happened too.<br />
Nice to put the week to bed.<br />
We'll see what week 15 brings.<br />
All's well that ends well, butJohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-18584737034464628622012-03-13T18:06:00.001-07:002012-03-13T18:08:26.689-07:00The Writing Was on the WallWell, the writing was on the wall. It seemed as if Sunday's run seemed harder than it should have.<br />
Saturday, I slept in and then went back to sleep.<br />
So Monday, when I woke up early and dizzy with a thick coating of mucous in my sinuses, it shouldn't have been totally unexpected. So many people have been so sick this year, I guess it was just a matter of time. I'm so happy to have this happen now and not the week of the race. That would really put me on edge.<br />
So, no work on Monday, no work on Tuesday, and probably a half day tomorrow. When will I run again? Maybe Thursday. I will have to play that one by ear. It did feel good to take the dog for a walk today. I'm trying to remain positive knowing that this will pass and my legs have been given a break because I've been flat on my back until this afternoon when I've partially rejoined the living. The trick now will be to not go out too fast and try to do too much. Saturday's 5 mile race is questionable but I think I should be OK by then. Maybe not with a world record performance but still with a good effort. Fingers crossed.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-58188454019138569532012-03-11T21:10:00.000-07:002012-03-11T21:10:51.908-07:00Week 13 is a wrapToday's 18 miler was a hard run. The first 4 miles were but a warmup and then the fun started.<br />
14 miles at marathon pace. My goal was to run 8:20 per mile and I ended up at 8:19, so I nailed it but the last several miles were harder than I would have thought. It's always tempting on a "pace run" to ask yourself, "could I keep going for x number of miles more?" The answer today was pretty obvious. Did I need to go x number of miles more? Not on this day.<br />
Looking ahead, Daylight Savings Time will be a big help in getting the afternoon runs in this week.<br />
The schedule for week 14:<br />
Monday - rest <br />
Tuesday- 8 miles with a track workout 5 X 600m at 6:40 pace<br />
Wednesday- 11 miles<br />
Thursday- 4 mile recovery run with 6 x 100m strides<br />
Friday- rest<br />
Saturday- Runnin' of the Green 5 mile race, plus I hope to run the last 6 miles with Mike Finger as he finishes the Chuckanut 50k.<br />
Sunday- It's supposed to be 17 miles, but I'll see how I feel after Saturday and adjust accordingly.<br />
Week 14 out of 18 WOW! We're running out of weeks. The big day is 5 weeks from tomorrow.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-19089075139581173292012-03-11T21:01:00.000-07:002012-03-11T21:01:40.164-07:00Wearing down?At this point in marathon preparation, 12 + weeks of toiling away can take a toll on a body. It's hard to get up for every run. The running week started off great with Monday off and Tuesday a chance to run with Rick and Paul on a sunny afternoon down along the bay. I'm glad that I could make that work. A ride downtown with Diane and then 5 miles with them and a three mile run back home along a rushing and roaring Whatcom Creek.<br />
Wednesday was a different story. The plan was to run 9 miles which included 5 X 1,000 meters at 6:40 pace. I did it, but it was pretty uninspired and felt like I was going through the motions.<br />
Thursday was a rest day which helped greatly for Friday's 12 mile run after work. It was a very good run although it started raining halfway through and I came home drenched. <br />
Saturday was supposed to be a 5 mile recovery run but I ended up bagging it and sleeping most of the day. I was planning on getting up early and getting the 5 miles in, but it was still raining from the night before so I slept in and then ended up falling asleep on the couch until 1PM more or less. Too late to run then with a 18 miler coming up tomorrow. That should be a big run. 14 miles at marathon pace (8:20 per mile)<br />
The body is telling me to take it easy a bit. Time to listen.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-22101237944854055272012-03-04T18:59:00.000-08:002012-03-04T18:59:21.742-08:00We're Going to Fenway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbX_zv1ChYGUd6yib8xryi1H1xZKvdozlAmnkatq07KBOphZdIfchlOVli6s4b__b7RKRIvwGiMFWHSUsO4XV63CJzEAYxTJIz2BTYOC8PRDzbOOgaCuzLwYXy1y98B9uUEOFHSIBXVLQK/s1600/Scanned+Image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbX_zv1ChYGUd6yib8xryi1H1xZKvdozlAmnkatq07KBOphZdIfchlOVli6s4b__b7RKRIvwGiMFWHSUsO4XV63CJzEAYxTJIz2BTYOC8PRDzbOOgaCuzLwYXy1y98B9uUEOFHSIBXVLQK/s320/Scanned+Image.jpeg" /></a></div><br />
We're heading to Fenway for a day game. Does it get any better than that? Well, actually we'll miss the Yankees by 4 days, but oh, well. <br />
<br />
Today's 12 mile relaxing run was very nice. It was nice to loosen everything after yesterday's barnburner of a half-marathon into the biting wind.<br />
I've finished 12 weeks of an 18 week plan. 2/3 of the way there and feeling good.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-24632243614903471402012-03-03T21:19:00.000-08:002012-03-03T21:19:59.797-08:00A Honeywagon of a runWell, the Honeywagon Half-Marathon is in the books. This year they could have called it the Wind Tunnel Half-Marathon. It was really windy out there on those county roads and was a very tough run. I never really got anybody to draft off of except once. Reason being, when I would catch someone, then I'd pass them. I managed to pass quite a few people in the middle of the race. The last two miles were straight into the teeth of the wind which had been building all morning. I thought I had someone to work with for drafting, but he waved me on and told me, "it's all yours now buddy."<br />
I'm not sure if that wind was blowing 20mph, 30mph or what, but what I do know is that it felt like 100mph. Straight into it, nowhere to hide. I swear I don't think I could have bent any farther forward if I tried. My pace up to the 11 mile mark was right where I wanted it to be (7:33) but with the wind, it was a matter of survival.<br />
All in all, it was a good preparation race, as it was meant to be. It was really hard to keep pushing it and my mind had to will my body to keep it up. Similar to the later stages of a marathon. I know I sure was glad to see the finish line. That was tough.<br />
So tomorrow will be an easy run of somewhere between 10 and 13 miles and then I can call week 12 complete. If my math adds up, 12 weeks out of 18 weeks equals 2/3 of the way done. My-O-My-O-MyJohnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-60430051153988837262012-03-02T21:10:00.001-08:002012-03-02T21:14:15.460-08:00A Big (kind of) Test Tomorrow<strike></strike>Tomorrow will be my first race since starting this training program. Even though it's a small half-marathon out in the town of Everson, in Whatcom County, I'm still nervous. Pretty weird because I shouldn't be, but I am.<br />
This is the first of three tune-up races before Boston and the first time I've raced since the Cross Country National Race in Seattle in early December.<br />
I'm looking forward to the challenge, but I'll be happy to be running too.<br />
Fundraising checks continue to come in, even from people that I solicited in early November. $135 has come in this week. Surprising but good.<br />
Hoping for good weather tomorrow!Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-16764571972601997272012-02-27T20:23:00.000-08:002012-02-27T20:23:47.144-08:00Turning the pageSo as it turns out my 18 week training plan is set up in 4 different stages and takes 4 pages in the book. So turning a page represents a milestone on the journey. Page 1 (Stage 1) is building up endurance and takes 6 weeks. Page 2 (Stage 2) is continuing to build endurance and lactate threshold work. It takes 5 weeks. Page 3 is called Race Preparation and takes 4 weeks. Page 4 represents the taper is takes 3 weeks.<br />
Today when I turned the page to Stage 3, the end really is in sight since now I'm looking at the two last pages.<br />
Yesterday's 20 mile run actually turned into 21 and was a doozy.<br />
One thing I've learned from running all over this town is where the bathrooms are. The first test is to push on the door and hope it opens. So far, I've been good on that score even when it's been before or after hours. I try not to get my hopes up but it's a relief (HA HA) when the door actually opens.<br />
So there I am on Sunday at mile 4 of a 20 mile run and heading for the Cornwall Park bathroom needing desperately to find an open stall. First good sign, the bathroom door actually opened. Bad news - only one stall and someone's there. For all I know it's a homeless person sleeping as clothes are spread out on the floor. There's a womens bathroom right next door, it's 10:00 on an overcast cold Sunday morning with no one in sight. No, not yet, but I'm not going to stand around and wait either. The closest bathroom on my journey will be a mile and a half ahead. I ran between a quarter and half mile in the park and circle back. Still there. The woman's bathroom is too good to pass up. I peek my head in, two stalls and no waiting. Thanks ladies!<br />
According to the book, Advanced Marathoning, the long runs and medium- long runs should be run at a certain pace to maximise benefits. The first part should be around 20% slower than marathon pace and the last half closer to 10% slower.<br />
My hopeful pace is 8:20 per mile. 8 minutes and 20 seconds conveniently comes out to 500 seconds so 10% more is 550 or 9:10 per mile. The 20% is 600 seconds or 10:00. I'm here to tell you that 10:00 miles are hard to run for very long - too slow - at least some days. <br />
My strategy has been to run somewhere between 9:40 and 10:00 for the first half of long runs and 9:10 for the last half.<br />
After 10 miles, I reset my watch and noticed the first of the snow flakes falling on the South Bay Trail. By the time I got to Boulevard Park and the Taylor Street Dock it was full snowstorm mode with big fat flakes falling.<br />
My pace before heading up Bill McDonald Parkway was 9:08 average. Right where I wanted it to be and I hoped I could hold it for the 1.5 mile uphill. When I crested the top, my average was 9:06, a good sign. I actually finished in the sunshine with an average for the last 10.5 miles of 8:59. It was just too hard to hold back.<br />
It was a great confidence booster to go over 20 and to beat the pace I was aiming for.<br />
After a cold bath and hot shower, I looked out the window and the sunshine had given way to snow again and this time it was sticking.<br />
A deep, deep sleep and off to work on a Monday morning with only 1 month and 16 days until race day.<br />
The 20 mile runs (of which there are 3) are the big events in this program. It's nice to have 2 of them under my belt.<br />
The page is turned.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-59178602688153635802012-02-25T13:03:00.001-08:002012-02-25T13:05:33.764-08:00A wine tasting extravaganzaThanks to Bill Pech, Cami Ostman, and Polly Favinger for hosting a wine tasting fundraiser last night. 46 people showed up and a good time was had by all. We <strike>sampled </strike> drank wine from 7 continents, (Antarctica was actually water) had good food, enjoyed each other's company, and raised $1,300 to support cancer research. According to many, the highlight of the evening was the 4 minute video where my dad got to say hi. He was a rock star and that makes me smile, a lot.<br />
A huge thank you to all who came and contributed.<br />
Today was supposed to be a 5 mile recovery run in preparation for tomorrow's 20 miler but I think I'm going to pass, although I'm tempted to run a mile or two on the treadmill at the Y. I'm going there to sit in the steam room and sweat out some of these grape juice cells. If I don't run, it will be the first time in 11 weeks that I haven't run two days in a row. My legs are itching to go, but my head, and the rest of my body are not so sure.<br />
Photographic evidence of last night's good times can be found <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/106529775733345081638/DFMCWineTastingParty?authkey=Gv1sRgCJ-68520mdGsggE">here</a>.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-74646409972143210462012-02-21T20:32:00.000-08:002012-02-21T20:32:16.724-08:00A grinderYesterday, before leaving California, I ran a 7 mile recovery run along with some strides in Ojai, California while we visited our good friends, Chris and Sandra. I've had to rearrange runs this week because of the wine tasting party on Friday. Friday is supposed to be a 12 mile day and I know I can't do it on Friday. The only way would be to get up at 4:30 am and that would leave me pretty flat by the 6 pm party start.<br />
I've moved the runs up one day and will do the 12 miles on Thursday.<br />
Monday was supposed to be a rest day with Tuesday being the 7 mile recovery run. I figured that I would just have to bag the run but then I slept through the night on Sunday, woke up at 6am, snuck out while everyone else was asleep and had a wonderful run in the Ojai Valley. For whatever reason, it was a sweet little run and one that I'll remember. <br />
Today I ran the last of the lactate threshold runs. 11 miles with 7 at half marathon pace (7:30 per mile).<br />
I did it, but it was a grind. One hard run, indeed. I was feeling tired before I started and most runs lately have left me more energized at the end - not this time. As I was showering I realized that I've run 4 days straight and covered 40 miles. You know, that just might have something to do with it. Thankfully tomorrow is a rest day. The good news was that, after raining hard all day long, the rain stopped just during the window I was running. That was very welcome because I was even contemplating having to go to the Y and run on the treadmill. I'm sure glad that didn't happen. It's amazing what 4 days in the sun will do to a person and how spoiled you can get.<br />
Now it's back to the real world - the bright side of that coin however is how long it is staying light now. Finishing up at 6 o'clock was no problem. Quite a difference from several weeks ago. Bring on Spring!Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-74652452481382923872012-02-21T20:20:00.000-08:002012-02-21T20:20:17.751-08:00Recovery Week - running on the beachWeek 10 is a recovery week.<br />
Monday - Rest<br />
Tuesday General Aerobic 8 miles<br />
Wednesday 8 miles with 5 X 800 meters at 5k pace (my first track workout in this plan)<br />
Thursday Recovery 5 miles<br />
Friday Rest<br />
Saturday 8 miles with 8 x 100 meter strides<br />
Sunday 14 miles<br />
<br />
Check, check, and check.<br />
Since we were in Los Angeles from Thursday to Monday, I ran early on Thursday morning and switched the Saturday and Sunday runs. On Saturday I ran on the paved trail from Venice Beach past Santa Monica and up to Will Rogers State Beach and then back. That was OK, but the trail was pretty crowded with runners, walkers, bikers, and roller bladers. Sunday was much better running on the beach itself. Both days I also ran through the canals of Venice. That was a real treat, especially with the two pelicans who eyed me warily with those prehistoric looking faces as I passed their home in a side canal. It's a pretty amazing concept to be: a) running in the warm sun and b) to be running on the sandy beach. It was a very nice change and a nice recovery week. The next 5 weeks up until the taper will be challenging starting with next week which is a 55 mile week with 20 on Sunday. We'll see how up to the challenge I am, but feeling strong and ready to tackle it as best I can.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212453986626288559.post-41687611140071919432012-02-21T20:07:00.000-08:002012-02-21T20:07:13.585-08:00Week 9 - halfway thereThere's something very satisfying about finishing week 9 of an 18 mile training plan. The first half is done and things are on track and the end, while not in sight, is over the horizon somewhere. The runs have all gone as planned and I've completed the first half having not skipped any of the planned runs. That's a milestone in this training plan, I'll tell ya. Week 10 is labeled as a discovery week. Let's see how that goes.<br />
Fundraising is going well and the wine tasting on the 24th is right around the corner with about 50 people saying that they are going to come.<br />
Knocking on wood while saying that, so far, it's all good.Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05983574442422964398noreply@blogger.com0