Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. That sounds a lot like my house this morning. For the first time in many years no one is stirring...making noise...or racing down the stairs to see what Santa left in the stockings. I admit the racing downstairs was usually me - I like the stocking surprise! Growing up it was the one place you'd never find underwear. There was always underwear in one of the presents you would open. It's best to find that one first and get it out of the way. Knowing you had one present left and the underwear hadn't cropped it's tidy whitey head yet did take a little joy out of that last package. Don't get me wrong, underwear is a staple for many of us - not all of us, but many of us....
There's something special about Christmas morning. The world around you becomes peaceful while worries and stress disappear. As a kid I would open each present and make a nice stack out of them. Clothes neatly piled and toys/games arranged according to size. When I was all done opening gifts, I would take each stack to my room and spend time looking at each one, deciding where the clothes would go and what toy to play with first. As an adult I find that I do the same thing. My stuff is always in a neat pile awaiting their turn to go upstairs for a more detailed examination. Most clothes wouldn't be worn right away. Socks for instance would sit until I wore out my existing ones. New simply had to wait their turn to get in the rotation. Sometimes that turn came months later.
This morning I woke up, walked downstairs and it felt different. I knew it would and was ready for it. Still...it wasn't easy. It was empty. I turned on the Christmas lights, fired up a candle, flipped on the fireplace, and found some soft classic holiday tunes on the radio - topped it off with a bowl of Cheerios. Soon I was texting Christmas wishes and feeling better. I decided to run an easy 5 mile loop. It was as much for the exercise as it was to escape the quiet. Minutes later David texted me asking if I was going to run. He ran to my house and at 7:30 we were off. We ran slow, talked the entire time, and before we knew it, we were in front of his house and I giving him a Christmas hug. I so appreciated his company this morning - more than he knew. I ran home feeling better, refreshed.
Time to slide into the hot tub I thought. The water was warm and my little bird friends were singing in the bushes, flying about, and working their way through the food I had out for them. A little hummingbird was zipping around the backyard having the time of her life. I love my backyard. Not too big, neat and tidy, and comfortable. Some day I will move and the backyard will be the one thing I miss. As the jets massaged my back I thought about this year, tallying my wins and losses. My record is much like the Seahawks...wins were small, losses big. I've played the game films over and over in my head and learned many lessons from them. I've already changed my game and haven't been sacked since. My front line isn't made up of huge 300+ pound sweaty belly fat linemen, but rather great friends and family who each in their own way have kept me on my feet. Without them who knows where I'd be. Me, I don't want to think about it. Instead I will move forward, look ahead, but at the same time be sure to enjoy the moment I am in at that time. Special people make special memories - you know who you are and thank you for that. Until we meet up again, enjoy every day, treat people better than they deserve, worry less about yesterday while you plan for tomorrow, Run...don't jog.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
Predictable
Predictable. That's me alright. Or is it? I often hear that I am. I hear that I am other things too but this is a family blog so I won't go there. Family blog? Sure, haven't you noticed that I don't swear any longer. Mr Clean, that's me. Not to say that from time to time I won't slide one in - just saying that I don't need to swear in my blog. How did I make that change you wonder. I had an intervention, spent 30 days in the "clinic", and washed my mouth out with soap every time I slipped. Thank goodness for the Costco soap pack. Those 48 bars not only cured me but occasionally bubbles pop out when I burp.
See, I'm rambling. Predictable, I ramble. Sometimes I don't even know I'm talking. It's clear that I'm probably saying something very important. Why else would I be talking? Am I afraid of silence? A case of quietaphobia? I think not. I say things as they flow into my brain. They're floating around in there and bam, next thing I know I hear myself talking. It's such a short trip from brain to mouth. Is that why men sometimes think with their other er, brain? A little more distance helps right? Nope, that one just spells trouble - seems to be more of a divining rod than a brain. Either way, it's not much of a thinker.
Does being predictable make me boring? Or safe and comfortable? Truth be told, I like a good routine. I'm not a fly by the seat of my pants kind of guy. It's best to lay out a plan and follow it. Control it. That's my happy place. I wake every day at 4:00am except for weekends when it's 5:30am. Bedtime is 10:00pm. Granted that's only 6 hours of sleep but it seems to work. I usually eat the same 4-5 meals for dinner and lunch is either a turkey sandwich on whole wheat with mustard (never the deadly mayo) and a slab of cheese or it's a can of tuna. I eat it right from the can. Easier. Faster. Not a dish wasted. I make my lunch, lay out my clothes, and pack my gym bag the night before. The heat turns on at 3:30am and off at 4:30am. Back on at 5:30pm and off at 9:30pm. I buy gas at the same station, have done 90% of my grocery shopping at the same Albertsons for 14 years. Same Dry Cleaner for 12. My latte is 16oz non fat no foam 180 degrees.
I could go on but sh**, I'M starting to find myself boring. Having said all that I believe I am becoming more flexible. Fine - are you done with your little laughing fit yet? I do step out of my comfort zone. Case in point - swimming. Frickin dislike water more than you know but I am in the pool every week. Sundays at noon, Thursday at 8:00, with a Monday and/or Saturday thrown in for good measure. The secret? Water Angels. Enough said. I'm teaching Taylor how to drive and didn't even flip out when he drove up and curbed a tire. No, he wasn't driving my car but that's not the point....
My friends are helping me stretch myself and I appreciate it even though I might not tell them often enough. They help me more than they know, each in their own way. I bought shoes that I would never have bought on my own. Jeans that cost more than $35 and go down well past my ankles. I don't always tuck in my shirt anymore. If a sock has a hole in it I throw it away instead of turning it over and getting another six months out of it. I have however stepped out a little too far and like the guy pushing his luck at the Blackjack table, finally lost...big. You can never win your money back. The harder you try the more you lose. The best thing to do is to stop, count your losses, and step away from the table. I'm looking for balance and I think I'm closing in on it. There are things I need as much as the air I breathe and I will always embrace them, never take them for granted, and appreciate them daily. I think I'll like that guy. He is safe. Comfortable. Dependable. A person you can count on. Predictable.
See, I'm rambling. Predictable, I ramble. Sometimes I don't even know I'm talking. It's clear that I'm probably saying something very important. Why else would I be talking? Am I afraid of silence? A case of quietaphobia? I think not. I say things as they flow into my brain. They're floating around in there and bam, next thing I know I hear myself talking. It's such a short trip from brain to mouth. Is that why men sometimes think with their other er, brain? A little more distance helps right? Nope, that one just spells trouble - seems to be more of a divining rod than a brain. Either way, it's not much of a thinker.
Does being predictable make me boring? Or safe and comfortable? Truth be told, I like a good routine. I'm not a fly by the seat of my pants kind of guy. It's best to lay out a plan and follow it. Control it. That's my happy place. I wake every day at 4:00am except for weekends when it's 5:30am. Bedtime is 10:00pm. Granted that's only 6 hours of sleep but it seems to work. I usually eat the same 4-5 meals for dinner and lunch is either a turkey sandwich on whole wheat with mustard (never the deadly mayo) and a slab of cheese or it's a can of tuna. I eat it right from the can. Easier. Faster. Not a dish wasted. I make my lunch, lay out my clothes, and pack my gym bag the night before. The heat turns on at 3:30am and off at 4:30am. Back on at 5:30pm and off at 9:30pm. I buy gas at the same station, have done 90% of my grocery shopping at the same Albertsons for 14 years. Same Dry Cleaner for 12. My latte is 16oz non fat no foam 180 degrees.
I could go on but sh**, I'M starting to find myself boring. Having said all that I believe I am becoming more flexible. Fine - are you done with your little laughing fit yet? I do step out of my comfort zone. Case in point - swimming. Frickin dislike water more than you know but I am in the pool every week. Sundays at noon, Thursday at 8:00, with a Monday and/or Saturday thrown in for good measure. The secret? Water Angels. Enough said. I'm teaching Taylor how to drive and didn't even flip out when he drove up and curbed a tire. No, he wasn't driving my car but that's not the point....
My friends are helping me stretch myself and I appreciate it even though I might not tell them often enough. They help me more than they know, each in their own way. I bought shoes that I would never have bought on my own. Jeans that cost more than $35 and go down well past my ankles. I don't always tuck in my shirt anymore. If a sock has a hole in it I throw it away instead of turning it over and getting another six months out of it. I have however stepped out a little too far and like the guy pushing his luck at the Blackjack table, finally lost...big. You can never win your money back. The harder you try the more you lose. The best thing to do is to stop, count your losses, and step away from the table. I'm looking for balance and I think I'm closing in on it. There are things I need as much as the air I breathe and I will always embrace them, never take them for granted, and appreciate them daily. I think I'll like that guy. He is safe. Comfortable. Dependable. A person you can count on. Predictable.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Calling
My heart calls out,
ringing out like a gun shot in the night,
reaching around like branches to a tree.
Searching for meaning.
Searching for a place to call home.
A graceful hearth.
A place where it is free, free to express it's emotion.
A sanctuary of love.
My heart rests in the dark, awaiting the light.
The light that carries a smile.
A graceful smile with soft lips.
Lips that kiss away the dark, the lips of an angel.
For now my heart waits, waits for the lips to come it's way.
A hand to hold it, to guide it though the dark.
For now my heart fights by itself,
fighting off dark essences.
Creating a pathway, a pathway of tranquility,
opening the way for the angels lips,
the way for my heart to be discovered.
My heart is strong,
for if the light does not show, my heart will still survive.
Survive to live another day of hope.
Hope for the day its savior will come.
The day that the dark will be defeated,
conquered by the light, the light from Heaven.
My son wrote this and I like it. He's 17 and has gone through much of what the average teenager experiences. Love has found him and love has snuck away in the dark, leaving him questioning everything. He is strong yet quiet, smart with his dad's sense of humor, alone yet surrounded. Last year he scaled a wall that no one of his years should have had to climb. Yet he did it with courage, maturity and grace. I am proud of who he is and the man he's becoming.
ringing out like a gun shot in the night,
reaching around like branches to a tree.
Searching for meaning.
Searching for a place to call home.
A graceful hearth.
A place where it is free, free to express it's emotion.
A sanctuary of love.
My heart rests in the dark, awaiting the light.
The light that carries a smile.
A graceful smile with soft lips.
Lips that kiss away the dark, the lips of an angel.
For now my heart waits, waits for the lips to come it's way.
A hand to hold it, to guide it though the dark.
For now my heart fights by itself,
fighting off dark essences.
Creating a pathway, a pathway of tranquility,
opening the way for the angels lips,
the way for my heart to be discovered.
My heart is strong,
for if the light does not show, my heart will still survive.
Survive to live another day of hope.
Hope for the day its savior will come.
The day that the dark will be defeated,
conquered by the light, the light from Heaven.
My son wrote this and I like it. He's 17 and has gone through much of what the average teenager experiences. Love has found him and love has snuck away in the dark, leaving him questioning everything. He is strong yet quiet, smart with his dad's sense of humor, alone yet surrounded. Last year he scaled a wall that no one of his years should have had to climb. Yet he did it with courage, maturity and grace. I am proud of who he is and the man he's becoming.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Blanket of Peace
I ran in the snow today. I know, don't say it - I did take my inhaler before running and had it with me just in case. I set out for a nice slow 5 mile run that became a wonderful 9.5 miles. Since rolling my ankle I took some time off and this week I decided to get back to business. First let me say that I don't know how Sharon does it. How do you train yourself and then teach multiple classes the same day? Sounds hard doesn't it? It is. Tuesday night I ran nearly 5 miles on the treadmill, slipped into Sharon's 60 minute cycle class, and wrapped up the day with a 30 minute core workout. I then hit the hot tub. She does this and more nearly every day. OMG...I was spent. I mean the only thing that would have got me moving would have been a fire in the women's locker room. Someone needs to ensure their safety...why not me? Stop, drop, and roll, yup, that's it. Ok, one more time. Sorry mom....
Wednesday. I tried deep water running. Albert, Jen, Robin, and I with Sharon on the deck instructing. Wow. I hope it looked as hard as it was! Running in water without your feet touching the ground is not easy. Jesus walked on water and I can't even run in it. Not making a comparison, just stating fact. Somehow the girls were well out in front drill after drill. Albert and I sadly were way behind struggling to get the hang of it. The upside is that we were a bit entertaining (a short stop at my happy place). Truth be told, I got an excellent workout and look forward to more laughter...er, I mean instruction and support. Both nights I slept well - a practice that had been elusive.
Back to the run. What else was I to do but keep it up?!?! The Y had an event which I have done in the past but after waking early, I fell back to sleep only to wake at 7:30. No time to fuel equals no workout - I've driven that car before and it wasn't pretty. I decided to run a slow pace in the snow, an out and back to keep the mileage down. Soon I was dressed, out the door, and running down the street. I ran through Mill Creek and it was simply beautiful. Early enough that traffic was far and few between. People - didn't see them. The sidewalk was covered with a couple inches of unblemished snow just waiting for me to glide through, disturbing it as little as possible. I felt good. The air was so fresh and the snow hanging so gently on the leaves and branches was amazing.
Before I knew it I was running down Bothell-Everett Hwy. I had missed my turn and decided to keep going. The sidewalk path takes you mostly off the road and through some trees and bushes. I was listening to WoodRush, a local band with a nice folk sound. Their music blended perfectly with the environment. I felt at peace, running but not running. Moving but with so little effort. My head began to clear. It was nothing but snow, music, and me. Nice. In front of me I now saw foot prints. Another runner. I could tell from the steps. Someone else I thought was out here with me. He or she however was nowhere in sight...and I was glad.
I turned up past Lowes and I must admit the run got ugly. The dirt from the road had splashed up on the sidewalk and the once beautiful unblemished snow now suddenly lost it's magic. It was now a slippery mess that I had to navigate through. I picked up the pace to get the heck out of there. I made it past Albertsons and as I was working up the rise, a wonderful man in a pickup decided it would be fun to slide over into the muck and splash it all over me. Stupid Mother F..oops. It's Thanksgiving. I'm sure he was simply texting and lost his way....maybe he swerved to avoid a cute little kitten - a life saved....or the pumpkin pie was slipping off the passenger seat and he needed to save it - grandma doesn't like spilt pie. However, none of this explains the jerk behind him that did the same thing.
I made it to Safeway and was about a mile from home. The sidewalks became pretty again, the trees laced with snow, and walkers lifting a hand to wave as I ran by. Strangers saying hi. I tried a "Hi" back but it was apparent that my face was a tad frozen as was whatever had built an ice jam in and around my nose. Winter runs...gotta love em. Turns out I ran 9.5 and I'm glad I did. I feel refreshed. I won't close this blog with anything sappy except to say that there is much to be thankful for in this life and when you think it sucks for you, remember that there is always someone that has it worse. A smart person told me that and it stuck. I hope to see you on the road, be it running or honking as you drive by. Make today the best it can be, never cheat your fitness, Run...don't jog.
Wednesday. I tried deep water running. Albert, Jen, Robin, and I with Sharon on the deck instructing. Wow. I hope it looked as hard as it was! Running in water without your feet touching the ground is not easy. Jesus walked on water and I can't even run in it. Not making a comparison, just stating fact. Somehow the girls were well out in front drill after drill. Albert and I sadly were way behind struggling to get the hang of it. The upside is that we were a bit entertaining (a short stop at my happy place). Truth be told, I got an excellent workout and look forward to more laughter...er, I mean instruction and support. Both nights I slept well - a practice that had been elusive.
Back to the run. What else was I to do but keep it up?!?! The Y had an event which I have done in the past but after waking early, I fell back to sleep only to wake at 7:30. No time to fuel equals no workout - I've driven that car before and it wasn't pretty. I decided to run a slow pace in the snow, an out and back to keep the mileage down. Soon I was dressed, out the door, and running down the street. I ran through Mill Creek and it was simply beautiful. Early enough that traffic was far and few between. People - didn't see them. The sidewalk was covered with a couple inches of unblemished snow just waiting for me to glide through, disturbing it as little as possible. I felt good. The air was so fresh and the snow hanging so gently on the leaves and branches was amazing.
Before I knew it I was running down Bothell-Everett Hwy. I had missed my turn and decided to keep going. The sidewalk path takes you mostly off the road and through some trees and bushes. I was listening to WoodRush, a local band with a nice folk sound. Their music blended perfectly with the environment. I felt at peace, running but not running. Moving but with so little effort. My head began to clear. It was nothing but snow, music, and me. Nice. In front of me I now saw foot prints. Another runner. I could tell from the steps. Someone else I thought was out here with me. He or she however was nowhere in sight...and I was glad.
I turned up past Lowes and I must admit the run got ugly. The dirt from the road had splashed up on the sidewalk and the once beautiful unblemished snow now suddenly lost it's magic. It was now a slippery mess that I had to navigate through. I picked up the pace to get the heck out of there. I made it past Albertsons and as I was working up the rise, a wonderful man in a pickup decided it would be fun to slide over into the muck and splash it all over me. Stupid Mother F..oops. It's Thanksgiving. I'm sure he was simply texting and lost his way....maybe he swerved to avoid a cute little kitten - a life saved....or the pumpkin pie was slipping off the passenger seat and he needed to save it - grandma doesn't like spilt pie. However, none of this explains the jerk behind him that did the same thing.
I made it to Safeway and was about a mile from home. The sidewalks became pretty again, the trees laced with snow, and walkers lifting a hand to wave as I ran by. Strangers saying hi. I tried a "Hi" back but it was apparent that my face was a tad frozen as was whatever had built an ice jam in and around my nose. Winter runs...gotta love em. Turns out I ran 9.5 and I'm glad I did. I feel refreshed. I won't close this blog with anything sappy except to say that there is much to be thankful for in this life and when you think it sucks for you, remember that there is always someone that has it worse. A smart person told me that and it stuck. I hope to see you on the road, be it running or honking as you drive by. Make today the best it can be, never cheat your fitness, Run...don't jog.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Lost
Runners run. That's what they do. We all run for different reasons and each reason is exactly the right one for that person at that time. It's therapy....it's training for a personal best...we run to things and we run away from things....sometimes we run to forget things. Running doesn't define us but it shapes us. It can keep you grounded, centered, focused. What happens when a runner doesn't run anymore? There's a feeling of being out of sync, life's rhythm is out of balance, you feel lost.
Though I've been running this year I am clearly out of rhythm. I've ran 10 races this year. I started with a 5k in January that had me jumping into Lake Washington, ran a 5 miler, a 187 mile relay, a triathlon relay, a 5k obstacle course, and many 'regular' 5k's mixed in. I started this year saying that I wanted it to be different and my races have reflected that. What I didn't know is that my whole life would change this year. Holy F***! I got more than I bargained for. I am upside down and inside out. I look in the mirror and see someone I don't recognize. I know that person is a good person inside but constant actions prove otherwise. I'm lost.
I continue to lose without gaining. If this were a weight loss program it'd be great, but its not, it's my life. It's been like trying to hold sand in your hands only to see it pour through your fingers. You squeeze your hands tighter to stop it only to see it flow out faster. What you have left in your hands are scattered grains of who you are, who you were. You quickly start to pick up the sand to put your life back together and the tide comes in and washes part of it away, never to come back. You see that what was washed away were those things you never wanted to lose. The tide won't wash away the pain you caused others, promises broken, trust shattered. Life makes you keep those things. Maybe as a reminder. Maybe as punishment, a weight you must carry for what you did. I have made poor choices and saw myself doing it. It was like watching someone else, wondering who that person is but unable to slow the string of stupidity.
I didn't sleep last night, not a single minute. I spent the night looking out my window into the backyard and out into the darkness. Trying to understand my self-destruction. How many chances should a guy get in life? The answer is one. That's all any of us should ever need to always do the right thing. I got two and yet found a way to destroy that. If you see a mushroom cloud in the distance, I was probably there. Number three will never come. I realized a lot throughout the night. Much I won't share even in this blog. One thing I did realize is that I am me when I do for others without thinking about what's in it for me and letting life embrace me, come to me. I got away from that only to find myself grasping at the sand slipping through my fingers.
Today will be day one. A day of good decisions and listening to the voice that I recognize, ignoring the one that has been lurking in the dark, whispering in my ear. Life is not about me but about those around me. I have a heavy heart for those I have wronged and treated badly. I don't expect their forgiveness nor do I believe I deserve it. All one can do is step forward because you can't change yesterday. I'll run again. My rhythm will come back. Michael will come back. Light snow is falling and it makes me smile. Time to go brush my teeth - I hope the mirror remembers me.
Though I've been running this year I am clearly out of rhythm. I've ran 10 races this year. I started with a 5k in January that had me jumping into Lake Washington, ran a 5 miler, a 187 mile relay, a triathlon relay, a 5k obstacle course, and many 'regular' 5k's mixed in. I started this year saying that I wanted it to be different and my races have reflected that. What I didn't know is that my whole life would change this year. Holy F***! I got more than I bargained for. I am upside down and inside out. I look in the mirror and see someone I don't recognize. I know that person is a good person inside but constant actions prove otherwise. I'm lost.
I continue to lose without gaining. If this were a weight loss program it'd be great, but its not, it's my life. It's been like trying to hold sand in your hands only to see it pour through your fingers. You squeeze your hands tighter to stop it only to see it flow out faster. What you have left in your hands are scattered grains of who you are, who you were. You quickly start to pick up the sand to put your life back together and the tide comes in and washes part of it away, never to come back. You see that what was washed away were those things you never wanted to lose. The tide won't wash away the pain you caused others, promises broken, trust shattered. Life makes you keep those things. Maybe as a reminder. Maybe as punishment, a weight you must carry for what you did. I have made poor choices and saw myself doing it. It was like watching someone else, wondering who that person is but unable to slow the string of stupidity.
I didn't sleep last night, not a single minute. I spent the night looking out my window into the backyard and out into the darkness. Trying to understand my self-destruction. How many chances should a guy get in life? The answer is one. That's all any of us should ever need to always do the right thing. I got two and yet found a way to destroy that. If you see a mushroom cloud in the distance, I was probably there. Number three will never come. I realized a lot throughout the night. Much I won't share even in this blog. One thing I did realize is that I am me when I do for others without thinking about what's in it for me and letting life embrace me, come to me. I got away from that only to find myself grasping at the sand slipping through my fingers.
Today will be day one. A day of good decisions and listening to the voice that I recognize, ignoring the one that has been lurking in the dark, whispering in my ear. Life is not about me but about those around me. I have a heavy heart for those I have wronged and treated badly. I don't expect their forgiveness nor do I believe I deserve it. All one can do is step forward because you can't change yesterday. I'll run again. My rhythm will come back. Michael will come back. Light snow is falling and it makes me smile. Time to go brush my teeth - I hope the mirror remembers me.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Pineapple Classic
I ran with a pineapple today. It may sound like I've burned through all my friends and I'm so hard up that I'm down to running with fruit. Some say I've not been myself lately so it could be possible that I'm down to fruit and vegetables. Whens the last time fruit told you that you looked sick....that you don't seem happy....that you need to put on some weight....that it wondered where the "real" you went...? Take it easy folks, I don't hear fruit talking to me, that'd be crazy. At least that's what the carrots told me. I have heard these statements from friends and I appreciate each and every comment and the care and love behind their meaning. They see me off my game and care enough to point it out. That's a friend. Anybody can tell you what you want to hear. If you simply want nothing but good news all the time start hanging out in the produce aisle...baby carrots are nothing if not generous.
The 5k today was quite an event. It was not just a 5k, it was an obstacle course. Most of the Tri team joined forces to tackle this course and it was so great to see everyone. I missed those who couldn't attend. You should have seen the get-ups we wore. There were grass skirts, hair in rollers, bathrobes, special shirts, funky sunglasses, faces painted, and when Steve sends some pictures I'll post them on my blog. I wore a bib of fake abs. A nice clean unblemished six pack of semi real looking flesh that turned heads. More than a couple women took a snapshot - ok, I goated them into it but who knows how many Facebook posts Mr Abs will show up on....I'll do my best to forget about the two guys who took pictures. I don't think they were thinking Facebook....
Our tribe took off at 11:00 and I guess in my mind we were all going to run together. Not so much. Pineapple fever took over and BAM! we were everywhere. Oh well, I still had my team and there wasn't an obstacle we couldn't overcome. Sharon started with the pineapple and if you ask me, was a bit too comfortable with it. She had it tucked under her arm like a fullback going in for a touchdown. I don't know why it was so funny to watch. A girl and her pineapple...Shane...Shane...come back Shane. No one will get that but me. Deborah and Kerrie were great. They ran side by side from start to finish - loved that!
We hit the first wall and by then mud had become the rule. Helping each other up and over the wall was a test of patience and mud tolerance. We all made it and soon I was carrying the pineapple. It was a compact little sucker. Next was a crawl on your belly under a net challenge. More mud. It was more of the same until we came to a section of the course where you had to jump over a ditch of mud (what else) or go around. We all jumped. Kerrie leaped, made it, then slide back in. Her foot got stuck. She pulled it out and her shoe was still there stuck in the mud. By now her sock was caked with mud. It was so funny and she was such a good sport.
Up ahead we saw the first pit stop. An aid station. Upon inspection we found it to be a beer vendor - free samples. Not wanting to be rude I had a small taste. Small taste. Now what happened next has nothing to do with the er, aid station. We hit a very muddy spot and as I was turning I lost my balance and when down. Smack down in the mud. Sure laugh. Done? How about now? Ok, it was funny. Except that my knee seemed to find the only rock out there. Tore my running 'tights' and cut my knee in two places. At the end of the race I did go to the medic tent so they could clean it out. They had to pick some dirt and crap out of it. Painful but I do have a low pain threshold. Had the 'nurses' been a bit on the hot side, I might have felt the need to lay down and rest a little. As that was not the case, I made my way out as quickly as possible - I didn't like the way they were eyeing my abs...
The end of the race had a 30 foot slip and slide. Oh sweet mother of pearl! As they dumped fresh water on it I dived belly first and coasted from one end to the other. How cool was that?! I loved it! Popped up and it was just a few yards to the finish. The rest of the gang was already there so we made our way to the free food and beer. The beer was good and the food ok. It didn't matter, we were done and had survived. As we snacked many a runner walked by in their costume. Four girls walked by, each with flashing red lights on their nipples (can you say nipples in a blog?). I admit I had to look at couple ten times. It's not something you see every day you know. My appreciation to everyone for holding a towel around me so I could strip naked and put on some fresh clothes. I know you all looked away...and tell me, why the snickers? Oooh! Never mind...
I had fun today. It wasn't what I expected and started a little rocky. Most of that on me. I could blame it on getting over a chest cold or my nearly healed rolled ankle but that wouldn't be the whole truth. Truth is I still struggle with decisions made and the impact it's had on others. I don't mean to be a bad person. In fact I think I'm quite the opposite. For some reason it doesn't show or it just comes out wrong. I could say what the fuck and just be myself but I made a commitment to swear less in my blog which I have been quite successful up to this sentence. So I will simply say that I will be myself. I will get there. Don't give up on me. Keep helping. Mikey will be back. Until then keep texting me, don't take life too serious, never cheat your fitness, Run...don't jog.
PS. I'm still wearing the abs....
The 5k today was quite an event. It was not just a 5k, it was an obstacle course. Most of the Tri team joined forces to tackle this course and it was so great to see everyone. I missed those who couldn't attend. You should have seen the get-ups we wore. There were grass skirts, hair in rollers, bathrobes, special shirts, funky sunglasses, faces painted, and when Steve sends some pictures I'll post them on my blog. I wore a bib of fake abs. A nice clean unblemished six pack of semi real looking flesh that turned heads. More than a couple women took a snapshot - ok, I goated them into it but who knows how many Facebook posts Mr Abs will show up on....I'll do my best to forget about the two guys who took pictures. I don't think they were thinking Facebook....
Our tribe took off at 11:00 and I guess in my mind we were all going to run together. Not so much. Pineapple fever took over and BAM! we were everywhere. Oh well, I still had my team and there wasn't an obstacle we couldn't overcome. Sharon started with the pineapple and if you ask me, was a bit too comfortable with it. She had it tucked under her arm like a fullback going in for a touchdown. I don't know why it was so funny to watch. A girl and her pineapple...Shane...Shane...come back Shane. No one will get that but me. Deborah and Kerrie were great. They ran side by side from start to finish - loved that!
We hit the first wall and by then mud had become the rule. Helping each other up and over the wall was a test of patience and mud tolerance. We all made it and soon I was carrying the pineapple. It was a compact little sucker. Next was a crawl on your belly under a net challenge. More mud. It was more of the same until we came to a section of the course where you had to jump over a ditch of mud (what else) or go around. We all jumped. Kerrie leaped, made it, then slide back in. Her foot got stuck. She pulled it out and her shoe was still there stuck in the mud. By now her sock was caked with mud. It was so funny and she was such a good sport.
Up ahead we saw the first pit stop. An aid station. Upon inspection we found it to be a beer vendor - free samples. Not wanting to be rude I had a small taste. Small taste. Now what happened next has nothing to do with the er, aid station. We hit a very muddy spot and as I was turning I lost my balance and when down. Smack down in the mud. Sure laugh. Done? How about now? Ok, it was funny. Except that my knee seemed to find the only rock out there. Tore my running 'tights' and cut my knee in two places. At the end of the race I did go to the medic tent so they could clean it out. They had to pick some dirt and crap out of it. Painful but I do have a low pain threshold. Had the 'nurses' been a bit on the hot side, I might have felt the need to lay down and rest a little. As that was not the case, I made my way out as quickly as possible - I didn't like the way they were eyeing my abs...
The end of the race had a 30 foot slip and slide. Oh sweet mother of pearl! As they dumped fresh water on it I dived belly first and coasted from one end to the other. How cool was that?! I loved it! Popped up and it was just a few yards to the finish. The rest of the gang was already there so we made our way to the free food and beer. The beer was good and the food ok. It didn't matter, we were done and had survived. As we snacked many a runner walked by in their costume. Four girls walked by, each with flashing red lights on their nipples (can you say nipples in a blog?). I admit I had to look at couple ten times. It's not something you see every day you know. My appreciation to everyone for holding a towel around me so I could strip naked and put on some fresh clothes. I know you all looked away...and tell me, why the snickers? Oooh! Never mind...
I had fun today. It wasn't what I expected and started a little rocky. Most of that on me. I could blame it on getting over a chest cold or my nearly healed rolled ankle but that wouldn't be the whole truth. Truth is I still struggle with decisions made and the impact it's had on others. I don't mean to be a bad person. In fact I think I'm quite the opposite. For some reason it doesn't show or it just comes out wrong. I could say what the fuck and just be myself but I made a commitment to swear less in my blog which I have been quite successful up to this sentence. So I will simply say that I will be myself. I will get there. Don't give up on me. Keep helping. Mikey will be back. Until then keep texting me, don't take life too serious, never cheat your fitness, Run...don't jog.
PS. I'm still wearing the abs....
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Trail Running
I'm in love. There you go, I said it. It's out there now. No more sneaking around. I can now embrace the forest with my head held high. I love trail running. Wow, that's a weight off my chest. Go figure. I knew I was in love before but today sealed the deal. Sharon, Jen, Robin, and I arrived at the Redmond Watershed around 9:00 and after a short warm up, disappeared into the forest. It was my longest trail run at 90 minutes but it certainly didn't feel like it. That's the magic of the trail.
I should back up and say that the drive to the trail was amazing. Trees are embracing Fall and Fall is doing her best to strut her stuff. I use "her" because a man would simply have no patience for changing colors. We'd cut to the chase, drop our leaves, and hunker down for the winter. Now we all appreciate Fall colors but Sharon...Sharon nearly slips into a trance with each and every tree. She sees the sheer beauty of each and appreciates them for what they each have to offer up, almost as if they had a personality of their own. The rest of us enjoy them as well however we found our job being more of a "hey the lights red"...."we should drive in only one lane at a time"....you get the picture.
The trail. We started out on a skinny trail covered with hundreds of beautiful leaves, piles of them. It was fun to run through them. I always think of those car commercials where the car drives though leaves and they fly up as the car rushes by. I looked behind me as I ran and saw very little movement....The down side to the leaves is that they cover up rocks, twigs, and the ever frightening pile of horse poop. Yes, you know you're in trouble when the leaf pile squashes down a little too far. That's why I don't drive to the trail - my car and 'squishy' don't do well together.
It was an incredible experience switching from one trail to the next, around corners, up and down, as the trail wound throughout. Everyone did great. Jen and Sharon pushed the pace from time to time as Jen is working on building her 5k speed. She did really well. Robin set a PR today, running for the longest time ever! She did great. Robin has a way of finding her pace and pushing forward. Determination is a mainstay on her face - love it! Jen ran a couple weeks ago and today was night and day - she rocked it. Sharon ran a zillion miles as she would run back and forth to make sure everyone was staying together and no one got lost. She had me pick up the pace with her for a short stretch and I was right there with her. For a minute anyway. Then she does whatever it is she does and with little apparent effort she was soon well ahead of me. Note how I like to phrase it that she is fast so I can avoid the nasty thought that I might be slow...I am not! Just not as fast as some...
After the run we headed to Starbucks for our post run treat and consumed our rewards on the drive back home. We laughed so hard that I nearly had a 180 degree, non-fat, no foam latte find it's way through and out of my nose. Robin and her "Mr Hankey and the Christmas Poo" started us off and it never stopped. It's clear that we are very funny people! I won't even start with the fake accents.....I had a great time on the run and great people make all the difference in the world. Today was definitely a good day and I look forward to many more. Right now though I need to find a shower and scrub the trail off my body, clean some very dirty clothes, and sooner or later spray off the bottom of my running shoes. Seems that I landed in more than one "squashy" pile of leaves today.
I should back up and say that the drive to the trail was amazing. Trees are embracing Fall and Fall is doing her best to strut her stuff. I use "her" because a man would simply have no patience for changing colors. We'd cut to the chase, drop our leaves, and hunker down for the winter. Now we all appreciate Fall colors but Sharon...Sharon nearly slips into a trance with each and every tree. She sees the sheer beauty of each and appreciates them for what they each have to offer up, almost as if they had a personality of their own. The rest of us enjoy them as well however we found our job being more of a "hey the lights red"...."we should drive in only one lane at a time"....you get the picture.
The trail. We started out on a skinny trail covered with hundreds of beautiful leaves, piles of them. It was fun to run through them. I always think of those car commercials where the car drives though leaves and they fly up as the car rushes by. I looked behind me as I ran and saw very little movement....The down side to the leaves is that they cover up rocks, twigs, and the ever frightening pile of horse poop. Yes, you know you're in trouble when the leaf pile squashes down a little too far. That's why I don't drive to the trail - my car and 'squishy' don't do well together.
It was an incredible experience switching from one trail to the next, around corners, up and down, as the trail wound throughout. Everyone did great. Jen and Sharon pushed the pace from time to time as Jen is working on building her 5k speed. She did really well. Robin set a PR today, running for the longest time ever! She did great. Robin has a way of finding her pace and pushing forward. Determination is a mainstay on her face - love it! Jen ran a couple weeks ago and today was night and day - she rocked it. Sharon ran a zillion miles as she would run back and forth to make sure everyone was staying together and no one got lost. She had me pick up the pace with her for a short stretch and I was right there with her. For a minute anyway. Then she does whatever it is she does and with little apparent effort she was soon well ahead of me. Note how I like to phrase it that she is fast so I can avoid the nasty thought that I might be slow...I am not! Just not as fast as some...
After the run we headed to Starbucks for our post run treat and consumed our rewards on the drive back home. We laughed so hard that I nearly had a 180 degree, non-fat, no foam latte find it's way through and out of my nose. Robin and her "Mr Hankey and the Christmas Poo" started us off and it never stopped. It's clear that we are very funny people! I won't even start with the fake accents.....I had a great time on the run and great people make all the difference in the world. Today was definitely a good day and I look forward to many more. Right now though I need to find a shower and scrub the trail off my body, clean some very dirty clothes, and sooner or later spray off the bottom of my running shoes. Seems that I landed in more than one "squashy" pile of leaves today.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Dawg Bite
It's Dawg Dash weekend! The 25th annual Dawg Dash that is. Super if you're a runner or a Huskie fan, not such a big deal if your loyalties fall with Washington State. I've never been one to even come close to understanding why alumni become so freakin passionate about their teams. I mean crap, most people never played a sport in college and they graduated decades ago, let it go....Maybe I don't "get it" because I didn't have the opportunity to live that college life. I spent years earning my degree by going to school at night. Working all day, school for 4 hours a day until 10:00pm, study, homework, wake up and do it again. That's a long haul...more years then I care to remember. All I know is that I had long hair when I started and couldn't find my hair by the time I finished. I'm glad I did it and I value the time spent and the knowledge earned.
My 5K weekend started Saturday night with Albert as we got together for some pizza and catching up. It had been too long (my fault) and it was good to kick back and shoot the shit. "Shoot the shit" - where did that phrase come from? I don't really want to know but farms and cow pies come to mind. Anyone reading this not familiar with a cow pie, just know it isn't something you can order at Sharie's or the French Bakery...
Our conversation flowed and the pizza was fantastic. We also had a couple suicide blondes. I know what you're thinking, a suicide blonde sounds a lot like a $20 hooker. Rest assured that while that may be true, in our case it was a type of beer. Not being a big drinker I quickly downed the first one and moved to the second. Yes, by now my second blonde was much more attractive than her younger and now forgotten sister. I was however a complete gentleman, sipped rather than gulped, made no promises, and might have even used my real name. I got home and maybe, just maybe stumbled across a bit of rum. How it got there I do not know. What I do know is that Sunday morning came quick...too quick. Thought I might need a bit of the "hair of the dog" - defined as a measure of drink intended to cure a hangover. Thankfully I didn't really have a hangover. My head hurt a bit but I have been spending an awful lot of time thinking these days - that can do it you know. My tummy was whispering to me in an outside voice but then again, now that I have a couple abs, maybe it was just wanting a little attention.
We had quite the racing crew. Albert running the 10K, Heather, Iain, Jen, Robin, Sharon, and myself tackling the 5K (note how everyone is in alphabetical order - very tidy). We noticed the moon which seemed to be full - I love a full moon, so cool and the Fall foliage was beautiful. Sharon commented that every Fall should be this beautiful. She's right, the colors were amazing. The weather on the other hand was terrible. Rain....rain....did I mention rain? Had a dash of wind pop through from time to time just to say hi. When race time approached we had to climb out of the car - had I mentioned that we were piled in the car trying to stay warm and dry? 9:00 comes as we decide to get out and warm up. No sooner did we step out and the big guy upstairs opened the heavens and down came the buckets of rain. It was so stupid it was funny.
Now by the time we hit the bathrooms to ah, let's just say it, pee and get warm (Ok, satisfied now?), the rain stopped. We all slid into our personal warm up routines to get ready for our race. Some do more than others. Sharon and Albert knock out what seems a mile or two. I simply jog around, do a couple strides (strictly to intimidate the competition), and save my juice for the race. It's limited and I hate to spend it early as the recovery time is a good 20 minutes.
The race itself was fairly uneventful. We all run at different paces so other than seeing Sharon disappear in front of me early on (same play, different race), I ran my race the best I could. The first half of the course is all incline and I do my best running downhill. A week ago I had tossed out there that I would finish in the top 10 in my age division. That's saying something for this race because with a couple thousand runners, it's pretty competitive. I don't do it to be cocky I do it to put competitive pressure on myself. For that extra push. I'm glad I did because I wasn't feeling 100% but knew that I better push past the side ache and queasiness. Turns out that I finished 5th in my age division and 76th out of 1205. You can read that again if you want.
Our rockstar today was Sharon. Though she lied about her age, er, I mean accidentally wrote the wrong number down - I too have always thought 3's and 4's looked a lot alike. I might have to have a talk with her parents about this as I've seen this before and we may need an intervention before a pattern develops. Regardless, she came in 1st in the age divisions 30-39 and 40-49 which are the two most competitive. She was 3rd overall for woman and finished 40th out of 1205 runners. Too bad she had to leave right after the race because there's a medal with her name on it.
Everyone had a great race. Albert came through the 10K finished 14 of 110 in his division and 83 of 1077! Iain and Heather - our husband and wife team - hit paces of 13:09 and 11:39 respectively. It was Iain's first 5K! It's so cool because he's been walking while the Tri group ran and has worked his way to a 5K. I hope he's hooked because it was so sweet to see the two of them celebrate and congratulate each other - lot's of love there. Jen smoked a 9:23 pace and finished 16th of 140 in her division - way to go Jen, you are getting faster!!! Maybe Devil Hill is your friend after all! Though Robin has completed several Tri's, this was her first standalone 5K. She kicked a 10:32 pace and was 48th in her division of 156. Coincidence that everyone did so well AND are members of the now world famous Tri team? I think not!
Race complete and freebies consumed, it was time to go. Sharon had already left as Little T was having his birthday party today. That kid is such a crackup, but I'll leave that for another blog. Which by the way I may do. I've been told that I should blog more often which means I'll have to share my thoughts on more than just a race experience. I like to write and if you can stomach them, I invite you to come around from time to time and give me a read. Oh, back to my original line of thinking. We were leaving...Yes, leaving. Well wouldn't you know it, the heavens opened up once again and it was a down pour. We got to the car soaked to the skin and cold. Funny thing is, I wouldn't have changed a thing. That's a lie. I would have changed a couple things - one being my time :)
You may have noticed that this blog is not as dark as a few of my most recent. While not every day is a great one, they are getting better. Friends can make such an amazing difference and they should never be taken for granted but instead embraced and thanked for what they give, who they are. Many of the Tri team are running the Pineapple Classic in a couple of weeks. I look forward to that and the training that will take place between now and then. Multi-Sports is around the corner and that excites me too. If it delivers half of what the Tri program did, it'll be a home run. Until the next time, do your best at whatever you do, forgive when you can, hug often, and know that hearts don't change, people do. If in doubt, Run...don't jog.
My 5K weekend started Saturday night with Albert as we got together for some pizza and catching up. It had been too long (my fault) and it was good to kick back and shoot the shit. "Shoot the shit" - where did that phrase come from? I don't really want to know but farms and cow pies come to mind. Anyone reading this not familiar with a cow pie, just know it isn't something you can order at Sharie's or the French Bakery...
Our conversation flowed and the pizza was fantastic. We also had a couple suicide blondes. I know what you're thinking, a suicide blonde sounds a lot like a $20 hooker. Rest assured that while that may be true, in our case it was a type of beer. Not being a big drinker I quickly downed the first one and moved to the second. Yes, by now my second blonde was much more attractive than her younger and now forgotten sister. I was however a complete gentleman, sipped rather than gulped, made no promises, and might have even used my real name. I got home and maybe, just maybe stumbled across a bit of rum. How it got there I do not know. What I do know is that Sunday morning came quick...too quick. Thought I might need a bit of the "hair of the dog" - defined as a measure of drink intended to cure a hangover. Thankfully I didn't really have a hangover. My head hurt a bit but I have been spending an awful lot of time thinking these days - that can do it you know. My tummy was whispering to me in an outside voice but then again, now that I have a couple abs, maybe it was just wanting a little attention.
We had quite the racing crew. Albert running the 10K, Heather, Iain, Jen, Robin, Sharon, and myself tackling the 5K (note how everyone is in alphabetical order - very tidy). We noticed the moon which seemed to be full - I love a full moon, so cool and the Fall foliage was beautiful. Sharon commented that every Fall should be this beautiful. She's right, the colors were amazing. The weather on the other hand was terrible. Rain....rain....did I mention rain? Had a dash of wind pop through from time to time just to say hi. When race time approached we had to climb out of the car - had I mentioned that we were piled in the car trying to stay warm and dry? 9:00 comes as we decide to get out and warm up. No sooner did we step out and the big guy upstairs opened the heavens and down came the buckets of rain. It was so stupid it was funny.
Now by the time we hit the bathrooms to ah, let's just say it, pee and get warm (Ok, satisfied now?), the rain stopped. We all slid into our personal warm up routines to get ready for our race. Some do more than others. Sharon and Albert knock out what seems a mile or two. I simply jog around, do a couple strides (strictly to intimidate the competition), and save my juice for the race. It's limited and I hate to spend it early as the recovery time is a good 20 minutes.
The race itself was fairly uneventful. We all run at different paces so other than seeing Sharon disappear in front of me early on (same play, different race), I ran my race the best I could. The first half of the course is all incline and I do my best running downhill. A week ago I had tossed out there that I would finish in the top 10 in my age division. That's saying something for this race because with a couple thousand runners, it's pretty competitive. I don't do it to be cocky I do it to put competitive pressure on myself. For that extra push. I'm glad I did because I wasn't feeling 100% but knew that I better push past the side ache and queasiness. Turns out that I finished 5th in my age division and 76th out of 1205. You can read that again if you want.
Our rockstar today was Sharon. Though she lied about her age, er, I mean accidentally wrote the wrong number down - I too have always thought 3's and 4's looked a lot alike. I might have to have a talk with her parents about this as I've seen this before and we may need an intervention before a pattern develops. Regardless, she came in 1st in the age divisions 30-39 and 40-49 which are the two most competitive. She was 3rd overall for woman and finished 40th out of 1205 runners. Too bad she had to leave right after the race because there's a medal with her name on it.
Everyone had a great race. Albert came through the 10K finished 14 of 110 in his division and 83 of 1077! Iain and Heather - our husband and wife team - hit paces of 13:09 and 11:39 respectively. It was Iain's first 5K! It's so cool because he's been walking while the Tri group ran and has worked his way to a 5K. I hope he's hooked because it was so sweet to see the two of them celebrate and congratulate each other - lot's of love there. Jen smoked a 9:23 pace and finished 16th of 140 in her division - way to go Jen, you are getting faster!!! Maybe Devil Hill is your friend after all! Though Robin has completed several Tri's, this was her first standalone 5K. She kicked a 10:32 pace and was 48th in her division of 156. Coincidence that everyone did so well AND are members of the now world famous Tri team? I think not!
Race complete and freebies consumed, it was time to go. Sharon had already left as Little T was having his birthday party today. That kid is such a crackup, but I'll leave that for another blog. Which by the way I may do. I've been told that I should blog more often which means I'll have to share my thoughts on more than just a race experience. I like to write and if you can stomach them, I invite you to come around from time to time and give me a read. Oh, back to my original line of thinking. We were leaving...Yes, leaving. Well wouldn't you know it, the heavens opened up once again and it was a down pour. We got to the car soaked to the skin and cold. Funny thing is, I wouldn't have changed a thing. That's a lie. I would have changed a couple things - one being my time :)
You may have noticed that this blog is not as dark as a few of my most recent. While not every day is a great one, they are getting better. Friends can make such an amazing difference and they should never be taken for granted but instead embraced and thanked for what they give, who they are. Many of the Tri team are running the Pineapple Classic in a couple of weeks. I look forward to that and the training that will take place between now and then. Multi-Sports is around the corner and that excites me too. If it delivers half of what the Tri program did, it'll be a home run. Until the next time, do your best at whatever you do, forgive when you can, hug often, and know that hearts don't change, people do. If in doubt, Run...don't jog.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Olive Branch
I admit it. The past two months have been shit. Decisions made created a new world for me. A roller coaster of emotion - feelings hit me from every angle and I didn't know how to react. Felt like I was in a boxing ring with my arms tied behind my back. I always try and live in my "happy place" where life is good and evil doesn't exist. So when things go bad I struggle to figure out how to dig out. Let's be clear before anyone feels sorry for me - the decisions made were mine. If you want to place blame - I'm your man. Some decisions were the right ones, others simply fucked the world up. Most created ripples, splashing onto the innocent. It would be easy to say I don't care, but I do. I burned trust and still can't find my way back. If you know me you know I'm already directionally challenged so this journey is like racing with a blindfold on - you want to go fast, fix it fast, but all you do is run off course.
What helps me is running. If you follow me on Facebook you'll see that I have been running a lot. It gives one time to think, to inflect some personal pain, to test yourself. Racing intensifies this. So I heard about a 5k and decided to race. I got lucky and Sharon decided to run too. Upside: she's a blast. Downside: I would place one spot further back in the standings. Her slow day is quicker than my fast day. Anyway, we arrived at the race and each dropped $40 for same day registration - $40....that's almost $13 a mile. It wasn't easy but I managed to hand over a couple twenties. "Sir...sir...you need to let go of the money now..."
Before we knew it we were at the start line. It wasn't a huge race but it seemed well organized - we were starting on time! Sharon was up near the start line, I was back a little. Just before the race started a couple women pulled forward up with Sharon, maybe a tad in front. I chuckled to myself knowing what they didn't know. Sharon's fast. More important though was that I knew she wouldn't appreciate their move. She didn't. The gun when off and in short order our speedster was out in front and the women were fading fast. I passed them with a smile. It was all I could manage because I was determined to keep Sharon in sight - that red/orange sports bra would be easy to spot. Right there next to me was this 12 year old kid that hung in front for about a quarter mile. He was flying but soon spent his gas and slowed.
I was fast out of the gate as well. My first mile was 6:54 and I felt pretty good. It was a wonky course. Lots of turns and it wasn't always clear where you should go. Sharon was well ahead of me and I saw her coming back from the turn. Sweet, half way done! Not so fast.....I kept running...and running....I knew something was wrong. Before I knew it Sharon was flying by me. F'd City. A volunteer sent her the wrong way and she had to rerun a section of the course. I saw her gaining ground on the guys that had been behind her. She was able to pass them as the race went on. Turns out that she was misdirected not once, not twice, but three times. I was nearly sent the wrong direction but the volunteer switched his arms at the last moment and sent me the right direction.
Even with the extra mileage Sharon ran, she had an amazing race. Her time was 20:43 -nice! If you factor in the extra mileage it's safe to subtract a minute, maybe a minute twenty. It's clear she was a 19 something 5k. Her best ever. Smokin boys, smokin. She still managed to win her division, was the overall women's first place finisher, and finished 3rd overall. She walked away with a nice trophy. Me? I got a ribbon...which they will mail to me....Ran a 22:30 which was 14 seconds off my best ever. Won my age division, 5th overall men, and finished 6th overall. All this cross training has been helping me. I'm back down to my racing weight and I know that helps too. I thought I saw an ab in the mirror yesterday....I was afraid to look again.....maybe next week.
As we were walking to the car, a guy drives by, slows down and tells Sharon how impressed he was with her attitude about being misdirected during the race. Class guy. He didn't have to do that but he did - he took the time to make a day better. It put a smile on our racer. I thought about what he said and he was right. She could have flipped but didn't. Good for him, good for her. People can surprise you. Not everyone likes surprises and I can understand that. Me? I would like to be surprised. Maybe I have been lately. An unexpected olive branch can change your day, your outlook. It doesn't have to come with promises or forgiveness. It doesn't have the power to build trust. But if given from the heart, it opens a door. From there, who knows. I know I've not been a good friend lately. I've been all about my world, fixing the fuck. I'm trying to change that and will change that. I'll keep running....racing....swimming. I'll be back, maybe a little different than I was before but at the center, I will be the guy you can count on. Keep the olive branches coming, give everyday the best you have, smile at a stranger, run naked. MYLACM.
What helps me is running. If you follow me on Facebook you'll see that I have been running a lot. It gives one time to think, to inflect some personal pain, to test yourself. Racing intensifies this. So I heard about a 5k and decided to race. I got lucky and Sharon decided to run too. Upside: she's a blast. Downside: I would place one spot further back in the standings. Her slow day is quicker than my fast day. Anyway, we arrived at the race and each dropped $40 for same day registration - $40....that's almost $13 a mile. It wasn't easy but I managed to hand over a couple twenties. "Sir...sir...you need to let go of the money now..."
Before we knew it we were at the start line. It wasn't a huge race but it seemed well organized - we were starting on time! Sharon was up near the start line, I was back a little. Just before the race started a couple women pulled forward up with Sharon, maybe a tad in front. I chuckled to myself knowing what they didn't know. Sharon's fast. More important though was that I knew she wouldn't appreciate their move. She didn't. The gun when off and in short order our speedster was out in front and the women were fading fast. I passed them with a smile. It was all I could manage because I was determined to keep Sharon in sight - that red/orange sports bra would be easy to spot. Right there next to me was this 12 year old kid that hung in front for about a quarter mile. He was flying but soon spent his gas and slowed.
I was fast out of the gate as well. My first mile was 6:54 and I felt pretty good. It was a wonky course. Lots of turns and it wasn't always clear where you should go. Sharon was well ahead of me and I saw her coming back from the turn. Sweet, half way done! Not so fast.....I kept running...and running....I knew something was wrong. Before I knew it Sharon was flying by me. F'd City. A volunteer sent her the wrong way and she had to rerun a section of the course. I saw her gaining ground on the guys that had been behind her. She was able to pass them as the race went on. Turns out that she was misdirected not once, not twice, but three times. I was nearly sent the wrong direction but the volunteer switched his arms at the last moment and sent me the right direction.
Even with the extra mileage Sharon ran, she had an amazing race. Her time was 20:43 -nice! If you factor in the extra mileage it's safe to subtract a minute, maybe a minute twenty. It's clear she was a 19 something 5k. Her best ever. Smokin boys, smokin. She still managed to win her division, was the overall women's first place finisher, and finished 3rd overall. She walked away with a nice trophy. Me? I got a ribbon...which they will mail to me....Ran a 22:30 which was 14 seconds off my best ever. Won my age division, 5th overall men, and finished 6th overall. All this cross training has been helping me. I'm back down to my racing weight and I know that helps too. I thought I saw an ab in the mirror yesterday....I was afraid to look again.....maybe next week.
As we were walking to the car, a guy drives by, slows down and tells Sharon how impressed he was with her attitude about being misdirected during the race. Class guy. He didn't have to do that but he did - he took the time to make a day better. It put a smile on our racer. I thought about what he said and he was right. She could have flipped but didn't. Good for him, good for her. People can surprise you. Not everyone likes surprises and I can understand that. Me? I would like to be surprised. Maybe I have been lately. An unexpected olive branch can change your day, your outlook. It doesn't have to come with promises or forgiveness. It doesn't have the power to build trust. But if given from the heart, it opens a door. From there, who knows. I know I've not been a good friend lately. I've been all about my world, fixing the fuck. I'm trying to change that and will change that. I'll keep running....racing....swimming. I'll be back, maybe a little different than I was before but at the center, I will be the guy you can count on. Keep the olive branches coming, give everyday the best you have, smile at a stranger, run naked. MYLACM.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Paths of Choice
What a beautiful day it was. After a very difficult Friday night, Saturday embraced me as a new day should. Like a deep fresh breath, relaxing, calming, and energizing all at the same time. Today was destined to be a better day, a good day, and yes, a race day. Sharon and Heather were running a 5K in Mukilteo and invited me along. How can a guy say no to that? Maybe it was the need to run that made me agree to go with them. Maybe it was the chance to hang with them. The friendship I've seen grow between them has been very special, they click, they don't judge, they just have fun together. Shouldn't all relationships be like that?
We took off early in the morning, lattes in hand and time on our side. I like to get where I'm going early. It reduces stress and allows me to relax and enjoy the moment. Early doesn't work for everyone and I appreciated the girls accommodating me. We saw the most beautiful sunrise. The clouds were billowing with fire and the mountains had this incredible silhouette against the rising sun - the beauty of it made everything else disappear. God knocked it out of the ballpark with that one, I could have stopped and watched it forever.
We did however have a race to run and it would be interesting on two counts. The first being that I needed to run. I didn't feel like I could run hard, I just needed to run. To get lost in myself. To disappear to that place that only a runner knows. The world is gone, noises exist but aren't heard. You feel your heart beating and you become aware of every motion your body takes. It's one stride at a time, focusing on one point on the course and just prior to reaching it, quickly looking and landing on the next point. Those points you use to pull yourself forward while at the same time pushing yourself harder when you already feel taxed, strained, uncomfortable. These moments speak to you. Your brain tells you to slow and rest so your heart won't explode. Your lungs beg for oxygen. It's at this moment you succeed or fail. I've failed more often than I like to admit. Success changes you. Once you realize you didn't actually meet your maker, it becomes easier to do it the next time. Never easy, but mentally it's easier.
The other reason was that today Sharon was going to pace Heather to a personal PR. A sub 34 minute 5K. Sharon shared her plan with me - she would lie to Heather along the course, telling her she was running her target pace when in fact she would be pacing her much faster. Fool the brain and the body will follow. Lock and load baby, this was going to be fun! Maybe not for Heather but when it worked, the PR would be met. Sharon has trained me for some time now and I have learned to shut up and listen. She knows what she's talking about - even when I have to pull out the dictionary to understand exactly what she's said. She's freakin smart and doesn't forget anything....so be careful what you say! Think Einstein meets Rain man.
Between chit chat, potty breaks, and more chit chat, the next thing we knew the race was about to begin. What!?!?! I hadn't warmed up. No jog, strides, sprints. I zipped to the start line and hung up toward the front. I could see the course stretched out in front of me, the first half mile or so. I stared at it knowing that at that very moment I wasn't going to take my time, run at a semi relaxed 8:30 pace and enjoy it. I was going to run hard. Ok, so this run wouldn't feel good, it was going to hurt some. Then bam, we were off. I was sub 8:00 and feeling ok. Pushed it and soon was passing the one mile mark. Hit the turnaround for the out and back and pushed harder. It was no longer a choice, it was necessary to run harder, I had to run harder. Mile 3 was flat to slight decline and I managed a 7:03 pace. The final stretch had another in my age group hanging with me. He'd been slightly ahead the whole time but there was no way he'd finish ahead of me. I got shoulder to shoulder with him and picked it up. Sprint time. Everything in the tank had to go and the tank was low. I moved forward and never looked back. Hey, there's nothing wrong with small victories - we should all have more of them. I finished in 22:36, not my best but within 20 seconds of a PR.
I grabbed some water and moved back to the watch runners come in the final stretch. Figured I had 3-4 minutes before Sharon and Heather would run by. I figured wrong, there they were. I could hear the announcer calling out the time. Heather is pushing it now and I can see by her face that she is in the pain zone, the anaerobic zone. That wonderful place where you feel like crap and continue to ask your body for a little more. The announcer is speaking the impossible....29 minutes and change. Heather comes across UNDER 30 minutes, shattering her PR by over five minutes - incredible! That girl has guts and she showed them today. She was sweat drenched, spent, and the smile on her face reflected her success and sacrifice.
Our coach had done it again, helped another person cross over to a new plane with new expectations and promises of chasing dreams that weren't possible just minutes before. With that we grabbed a few freebies and headed off to Starbucks for the usual. We all felt great. Heather locked in her fastest run ever, Sharon's plan worked out as perfectly as she had planned it, and I ran fast and mentally I was feeling better. We got to Starbucks and Sharon's phone rang. It was Shelby from Run26. Turns out that I took first place in my age division and he had picked up my medal for me. Frickin A, what a surprise that was. The latte would taste even better now.
Today had become a very good day. Racing aside, I had the choice to struggle and let life pull me down or use today as an opportunity to make it a better day. I chose the better day. Heather had a choice to run her normal race or find something inside her that she wasn't sure existed - she dug deep. Sharon chose to help a friend reach a dream - her heart is massive. Maybe all the choices we make aren't the right ones. Sometimes they hurt others. Sometimes they seem selfish. Some may question your choices. Sometimes they put you on a path you didn't expect. At the same time those choices may be exactly the right ones. Listen to your heart, trust in yourself. Surround yourself with friends that won't judge but will support you. I'm lucky. Lucky to have people in my life that I can turn too, that turn to me. There are things I wouldn't change, things that I can say from the bottom of my heart that I'm all in. Today is a good day. Tomorrow will bring another choice. Whether you race or not, make your decisions and move forward, don't press the pause button and hope something happens. Run...don't jog.
We took off early in the morning, lattes in hand and time on our side. I like to get where I'm going early. It reduces stress and allows me to relax and enjoy the moment. Early doesn't work for everyone and I appreciated the girls accommodating me. We saw the most beautiful sunrise. The clouds were billowing with fire and the mountains had this incredible silhouette against the rising sun - the beauty of it made everything else disappear. God knocked it out of the ballpark with that one, I could have stopped and watched it forever.
We did however have a race to run and it would be interesting on two counts. The first being that I needed to run. I didn't feel like I could run hard, I just needed to run. To get lost in myself. To disappear to that place that only a runner knows. The world is gone, noises exist but aren't heard. You feel your heart beating and you become aware of every motion your body takes. It's one stride at a time, focusing on one point on the course and just prior to reaching it, quickly looking and landing on the next point. Those points you use to pull yourself forward while at the same time pushing yourself harder when you already feel taxed, strained, uncomfortable. These moments speak to you. Your brain tells you to slow and rest so your heart won't explode. Your lungs beg for oxygen. It's at this moment you succeed or fail. I've failed more often than I like to admit. Success changes you. Once you realize you didn't actually meet your maker, it becomes easier to do it the next time. Never easy, but mentally it's easier.
The other reason was that today Sharon was going to pace Heather to a personal PR. A sub 34 minute 5K. Sharon shared her plan with me - she would lie to Heather along the course, telling her she was running her target pace when in fact she would be pacing her much faster. Fool the brain and the body will follow. Lock and load baby, this was going to be fun! Maybe not for Heather but when it worked, the PR would be met. Sharon has trained me for some time now and I have learned to shut up and listen. She knows what she's talking about - even when I have to pull out the dictionary to understand exactly what she's said. She's freakin smart and doesn't forget anything....so be careful what you say! Think Einstein meets Rain man.
Between chit chat, potty breaks, and more chit chat, the next thing we knew the race was about to begin. What!?!?! I hadn't warmed up. No jog, strides, sprints. I zipped to the start line and hung up toward the front. I could see the course stretched out in front of me, the first half mile or so. I stared at it knowing that at that very moment I wasn't going to take my time, run at a semi relaxed 8:30 pace and enjoy it. I was going to run hard. Ok, so this run wouldn't feel good, it was going to hurt some. Then bam, we were off. I was sub 8:00 and feeling ok. Pushed it and soon was passing the one mile mark. Hit the turnaround for the out and back and pushed harder. It was no longer a choice, it was necessary to run harder, I had to run harder. Mile 3 was flat to slight decline and I managed a 7:03 pace. The final stretch had another in my age group hanging with me. He'd been slightly ahead the whole time but there was no way he'd finish ahead of me. I got shoulder to shoulder with him and picked it up. Sprint time. Everything in the tank had to go and the tank was low. I moved forward and never looked back. Hey, there's nothing wrong with small victories - we should all have more of them. I finished in 22:36, not my best but within 20 seconds of a PR.
I grabbed some water and moved back to the watch runners come in the final stretch. Figured I had 3-4 minutes before Sharon and Heather would run by. I figured wrong, there they were. I could hear the announcer calling out the time. Heather is pushing it now and I can see by her face that she is in the pain zone, the anaerobic zone. That wonderful place where you feel like crap and continue to ask your body for a little more. The announcer is speaking the impossible....29 minutes and change. Heather comes across UNDER 30 minutes, shattering her PR by over five minutes - incredible! That girl has guts and she showed them today. She was sweat drenched, spent, and the smile on her face reflected her success and sacrifice.
Our coach had done it again, helped another person cross over to a new plane with new expectations and promises of chasing dreams that weren't possible just minutes before. With that we grabbed a few freebies and headed off to Starbucks for the usual. We all felt great. Heather locked in her fastest run ever, Sharon's plan worked out as perfectly as she had planned it, and I ran fast and mentally I was feeling better. We got to Starbucks and Sharon's phone rang. It was Shelby from Run26. Turns out that I took first place in my age division and he had picked up my medal for me. Frickin A, what a surprise that was. The latte would taste even better now.
Today had become a very good day. Racing aside, I had the choice to struggle and let life pull me down or use today as an opportunity to make it a better day. I chose the better day. Heather had a choice to run her normal race or find something inside her that she wasn't sure existed - she dug deep. Sharon chose to help a friend reach a dream - her heart is massive. Maybe all the choices we make aren't the right ones. Sometimes they hurt others. Sometimes they seem selfish. Some may question your choices. Sometimes they put you on a path you didn't expect. At the same time those choices may be exactly the right ones. Listen to your heart, trust in yourself. Surround yourself with friends that won't judge but will support you. I'm lucky. Lucky to have people in my life that I can turn too, that turn to me. There are things I wouldn't change, things that I can say from the bottom of my heart that I'm all in. Today is a good day. Tomorrow will bring another choice. Whether you race or not, make your decisions and move forward, don't press the pause button and hope something happens. Run...don't jog.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
The Vision, Journey, and the Triple Threat
Saturday's Triathlon marked the end of our journey. A journey that started with a vision, determination, and a passion for helping others. It started with what became the soul, the heart, and the personality of the program - Sharon. It ended 16 weeks later with strangers who became friends, individuals who not only became athletes but became triathletes, and heart, compassion, and support woven into each and every success and struggle.
Sharon was our maverick - as defined by Webster as "an independent individual who does not go along with a group or party". She was exactly what the doctor ordered. You've heard the phrase "thinking outside the box", well Sharon doesn't even know where the box is - and thank goodness for that! Her drive, enthusiasm, personality, and unfiltered view on life began to slowly break down barriers between a group of people, most who had never met before, and set the stage for us to become a team - each one looking out for the other, caring about one another.
The first week seems like yesterday. Albert and I helped coach the running portion of the program. There was a lot of walking - which was fine. Run...walk...jog...walk. I remember running at the track a few weeks later and seeing these same people run without stopping to walk or rest. I know it was hard for them - their breathing was rough and their form a little off. But the day was bigger than that. What I saw that day was the heart and guts that would define this team. They dug deep, hurt, but no one quit. It hit me so hard seeing them overcome that barrier that at that moment I decided to overcome one of my own. Water. Swimming. My success in the water came as a direct result of that day, those people, this program.
I began to change. Running wasn't just about going as fast I could any more. Slipping from one event to the next, one training plan after another. A sea of 400's, 800's, tempos, and long runs. It was about helping others. Realizing how great it felt to see the success of others. Watching them run a little further, shave a few seconds off their time, getting excited about a new pair of running shoes. At the same time I was learning from them. I believe I will be a stronger runner - stronger person because of them. How do you thank someone for that? I guess I'd start with Sharon and work my way through the entire team. There wasn't a single person who didn't have an impact on me. So to those who may read this, I thank you from the deepest part of my heart.
Flash forward 16 weeks to Saturday. 16 weeks of hard work, tears, sore bones and bodies. Workouts that sucked. Workouts that started so early no one has slept in on a weekend for four months. 16 weeks that shaped bodies, minds, and taught us that stretching and rest days were just as important as the workout itself. Some of us (me) still can't touch their toes but all of us can reach further than before. I think I'm limber but simply have been cursed with short arms.
Saturday morning we met at the Y where it all started. A chilly morning. Sleepy and nervous we almost didn't think about it being 5:00am. We approached Monroe and the site of the triathlon. There was a fog over the lake so thick you couldn't see more than 10-15 feet. Over time it dissipated though it did delay the start. Bikes were racked, transition areas set up, and the day old race tradition - having to use the bathroom a billion times begun. What is it about a race that causes your bladder to work overtime and your ah, other function to post an out of order sign on your butt? Think what you will but both end up impacting your race one way or the other. Many of the team simply peed in their wetsuit - you could always tell because of the peaceful calming look that came over them.
I was lucky to participate in this triathlon. While my swimming had greatly improved, the distance was too much for me at this point. The solution - a relay team. Steve had trained hard but ended up with a foot issue that prevented him from running. Kerrie having knocked off her first Tri the weekend prior wasn't ready to do another one. Triple Threat was born. Steve would swim, Kerrie on the bike, and I would run. Perfect. What was also cool about doing the relay was that I was able to watch most of the team swim and take off on their bike.
One by one out of the water they came. Smiling, tired, and focused on getting to the transition area. The mix of fatigue, numb fingers, and feet make for an interesting transition. Change clothes, put on socks and running shoes (try to tie shoes with numb fingers) and strap on the helmet. I didn't see to many transitions but I was able to witness Sharon. Somehow during her transition her timing chip shot off like a rubber band - no timing chip, no time. No time, you are DQ'd. I should mention she also had an infected thumb that had swelled to something from a horror movie. Maybe not that bad. Anyway, our unfiltered leader shot off some colorful words until it was located and then she was off. She did have the help of our cheerleader and her personal porter - Albert. Albert is well on track for the Portland marathon and cheered everyone on and today is running 20 miles....wow!
Steve came in from the swim and looked great. Handed off to Kerrie who grabbed her bike and tore out of there. It was a first for Steve and he did great! I loved the look on this face and hearing him talk about the swim. I look forward to doing a full Tri with him next year. Next thing I knew Kerrie was coming into the transition area and it was my turn. She was barreling in and yelled out a "MOVE!" to the person standing in her way. I loved it! We put the timing chip on my ankle and I was off. I'd struggled with a sore back and thought I'd go slow. But the BioFreeze I had applied numbed my back and half a mile down the road my trusty Garmin told me I was hitting a 7:35 pace. I felt good so kept it up. Finished my run in 22:36 (one of my fastest). We finished 7 of 12 relay teams. Not last but if we'd been last, so what. We had a blast. Thank you Triple Threat partners!
Three of the Tri team took home a medal! Sharon took 3rd in her division, 20th overall, and 5th of all women!! Wow! Paula took 2nd in her division, and David took 1st in his. It was so cool seeing each of them go up for their medal - we couldn't have clapped any harder. Through the celebration there was the reality that the end had arrived. 16 weeks in the blink of an eye. I have come to respect each of them and celebrate in their individual victories. 20 or so weeks ago Sharon approached me about helping with this then soon to be pilot program. I'm glad she asked - I'm glad I accepted. I received more than I gave. Have new friends I don't want to lose. Experiences I won't forget. Next on the docket is Sharon's next vision - Multisports. I'm sure she knows this by now but I'll say it again. I'm all in. Until that time I will continue to train and push myself hard. If Multisports delivers half of what the Tri program did, I will be a lucky man, a better man. This goes out to all of you and you know who you are - Thank you!
Sharon was our maverick - as defined by Webster as "an independent individual who does not go along with a group or party". She was exactly what the doctor ordered. You've heard the phrase "thinking outside the box", well Sharon doesn't even know where the box is - and thank goodness for that! Her drive, enthusiasm, personality, and unfiltered view on life began to slowly break down barriers between a group of people, most who had never met before, and set the stage for us to become a team - each one looking out for the other, caring about one another.
The first week seems like yesterday. Albert and I helped coach the running portion of the program. There was a lot of walking - which was fine. Run...walk...jog...walk. I remember running at the track a few weeks later and seeing these same people run without stopping to walk or rest. I know it was hard for them - their breathing was rough and their form a little off. But the day was bigger than that. What I saw that day was the heart and guts that would define this team. They dug deep, hurt, but no one quit. It hit me so hard seeing them overcome that barrier that at that moment I decided to overcome one of my own. Water. Swimming. My success in the water came as a direct result of that day, those people, this program.
I began to change. Running wasn't just about going as fast I could any more. Slipping from one event to the next, one training plan after another. A sea of 400's, 800's, tempos, and long runs. It was about helping others. Realizing how great it felt to see the success of others. Watching them run a little further, shave a few seconds off their time, getting excited about a new pair of running shoes. At the same time I was learning from them. I believe I will be a stronger runner - stronger person because of them. How do you thank someone for that? I guess I'd start with Sharon and work my way through the entire team. There wasn't a single person who didn't have an impact on me. So to those who may read this, I thank you from the deepest part of my heart.
Flash forward 16 weeks to Saturday. 16 weeks of hard work, tears, sore bones and bodies. Workouts that sucked. Workouts that started so early no one has slept in on a weekend for four months. 16 weeks that shaped bodies, minds, and taught us that stretching and rest days were just as important as the workout itself. Some of us (me) still can't touch their toes but all of us can reach further than before. I think I'm limber but simply have been cursed with short arms.
Saturday morning we met at the Y where it all started. A chilly morning. Sleepy and nervous we almost didn't think about it being 5:00am. We approached Monroe and the site of the triathlon. There was a fog over the lake so thick you couldn't see more than 10-15 feet. Over time it dissipated though it did delay the start. Bikes were racked, transition areas set up, and the day old race tradition - having to use the bathroom a billion times begun. What is it about a race that causes your bladder to work overtime and your ah, other function to post an out of order sign on your butt? Think what you will but both end up impacting your race one way or the other. Many of the team simply peed in their wetsuit - you could always tell because of the peaceful calming look that came over them.
I was lucky to participate in this triathlon. While my swimming had greatly improved, the distance was too much for me at this point. The solution - a relay team. Steve had trained hard but ended up with a foot issue that prevented him from running. Kerrie having knocked off her first Tri the weekend prior wasn't ready to do another one. Triple Threat was born. Steve would swim, Kerrie on the bike, and I would run. Perfect. What was also cool about doing the relay was that I was able to watch most of the team swim and take off on their bike.
One by one out of the water they came. Smiling, tired, and focused on getting to the transition area. The mix of fatigue, numb fingers, and feet make for an interesting transition. Change clothes, put on socks and running shoes (try to tie shoes with numb fingers) and strap on the helmet. I didn't see to many transitions but I was able to witness Sharon. Somehow during her transition her timing chip shot off like a rubber band - no timing chip, no time. No time, you are DQ'd. I should mention she also had an infected thumb that had swelled to something from a horror movie. Maybe not that bad. Anyway, our unfiltered leader shot off some colorful words until it was located and then she was off. She did have the help of our cheerleader and her personal porter - Albert. Albert is well on track for the Portland marathon and cheered everyone on and today is running 20 miles....wow!
Steve came in from the swim and looked great. Handed off to Kerrie who grabbed her bike and tore out of there. It was a first for Steve and he did great! I loved the look on this face and hearing him talk about the swim. I look forward to doing a full Tri with him next year. Next thing I knew Kerrie was coming into the transition area and it was my turn. She was barreling in and yelled out a "MOVE!" to the person standing in her way. I loved it! We put the timing chip on my ankle and I was off. I'd struggled with a sore back and thought I'd go slow. But the BioFreeze I had applied numbed my back and half a mile down the road my trusty Garmin told me I was hitting a 7:35 pace. I felt good so kept it up. Finished my run in 22:36 (one of my fastest). We finished 7 of 12 relay teams. Not last but if we'd been last, so what. We had a blast. Thank you Triple Threat partners!
Three of the Tri team took home a medal! Sharon took 3rd in her division, 20th overall, and 5th of all women!! Wow! Paula took 2nd in her division, and David took 1st in his. It was so cool seeing each of them go up for their medal - we couldn't have clapped any harder. Through the celebration there was the reality that the end had arrived. 16 weeks in the blink of an eye. I have come to respect each of them and celebrate in their individual victories. 20 or so weeks ago Sharon approached me about helping with this then soon to be pilot program. I'm glad she asked - I'm glad I accepted. I received more than I gave. Have new friends I don't want to lose. Experiences I won't forget. Next on the docket is Sharon's next vision - Multisports. I'm sure she knows this by now but I'll say it again. I'm all in. Until that time I will continue to train and push myself hard. If Multisports delivers half of what the Tri program did, I will be a lucky man, a better man. This goes out to all of you and you know who you are - Thank you!
Monday, July 26, 2010
Ragnar 187.1
Thank you. That's the only way to start this blog. It's only appropriate. Thank you. First of all a monster thanks to the team - Albert (my running angel), Don (the strongman), Jerry (super human volunteer), Kathy (best navigator ever), Shelly (the jack rabbit), Stephanie (my checkpoint angel and cruiser - yes, she gets two names), and Susan (the warrior). More on them later.... Thanks to Sharon who I believe was texting us while hanging from rock ledges in Arizona to make sure we were being safe - that meant more than you know. To family and friends your support was fantastic and so appreciated. So for everyone listed here, a huge THANKS for being in my corner and supporting me through this adventure instead of calling the funny farm and having me carted away and tossed in a padded room.
I didn't train properly for this run. I ran 400 meter sprints to gain speed. Many a day I ran them until I was going to puke. Then we decided to do something crazy - read the rules. Turns out Ultra teams run doubles which means the training should have been endurance and hills vs speed. No big deal, I had three weeks to transition my body from speed to more mileage than I ever dreamed of. Not so much. I entered this run trained for a different run. My longest run over the past 3 months had been 9 miles and most averaged 6. Now I was off to run between 28-30 (ended with a mileage count of 31.5 miles). Was I nervous? Maybe a little on the inside.
Around 7:00am Friday morning we jumped into the van that would be our home for the next 30 or so hours. Tight fit, no toilet, tires in need of air, and a rattle that sounded as if something was going to fall off but nothing ever did. We used the drive to Blaine to start getting to know each other - some of us had never met other than Facebook. We connected fast. Maybe because we were runners. Maybe it was the nervous jitters for the unknown adventure we were about to embark on. Regardless of the reason we were becoming friends by the time we hit Blaine. While it might not have seemed that important at the time, it would end up making the difference as the relay progressed.
Jerry. We had to produce three volunteers or pay $300. Jerry stepped up as a super volunteer and bailed us out. He was stationed in Coupeville from 2:00am - 1:00pm. Eleven hours, no sleep. Thank you Jerry. You're an amazing person.
We arrived in Blaine, checked in, and attended the safety briefing. This race is all about safety. There were more places on the course where you could be hit and seriously injured than you can imagine. Blind corners, cars flying by 55 mph, little or no running room on the road so you were in the street. Factor in running in the dark and you have the ingredients for disaster. We exited the briefing and began to soak in the excitement. Booths, teams, rock n roll music, energy. It was like a drug. I started to feel like anything was possible, my running shoes had magical powers that would carry me to the finish. Let's get this relay started!
Don. Our strongman. He ran the first leg, got us started out of the gate. It had to be nerve racking to go first. He took it in stride. He took the nervousness off our shoulders and placed it firmly on his own. His first double leg would tell us all something about what was ahead. He was out of the gate and running strong. We jumped in the van to begin our leapfrog approach - drive ahead, let the runner catch up to check on them, and drive further up and wait. Don was strong. Mile after mile he looked like an ironman. Just watching him run built confidence in me. Later in the relay after his second double Don was done. His hip said no more. I know it was hard for him to listen but he did the right thing and did not run his last double. It was smart. No run is worth the possible permanent damage an injury can cause. That decision spoke volumes about Don and I for one was impressed by it.
My first double. Ok, this looks to be a long blog so if you need to pee or get a drink of water go ahead, I'll wait. I learned a lesson about fueling on this leg - and maybe a bit about smart running. It was my first and worse leg. I woke at 5:30am and had a bowl of cereal. Snacked on the drive. Had a 6 inch sub and a couple bottles of water. At 5:30pm I started my first run. 80+ degrees, sun beating down, 9.3 miles, and Michael. I was ready. Go slow it's not a race. Take it easy you have a lot of miles before this relay is done. Got it. Lost it. Ran the first mile in 7:24, second in 7:45, third and fourth close to 8:00. I was spent. Had no juice, no energy. Spent it all on the first four frickin miles and had five to go. Stupid. I couldn't get out of the sun and my legs were heavy and didn't want to move. Albert got me water and told me to slow and take it easy. Around mile 7 he was waiting for me with some G2. I knew something was up the way he was looking at me. "Are you ok" "Are you dizzy" "How do you feel" "You back is clammy". Turns out I had a bit of heat exhaustion. The final couple of miles were painful. It's hard to describe. It was so hot I couldn't stand it yet I was cold at the same time. My magical running shoes had become cement. More than once I was ready for Jesus to take me. What the fuck was wrong with me, I'm a runner. I wasn't a smart runner. Then I saw her. Stephanie. She became my checkpoint angel. She would always run after me. She was always there ready to take the handoff and allow my pain to subside. I would have hugged her but I couldn't lift my arms - in fact I wasn't sure I still had them. Albert helped me to the van for G2, a banana, and my trusty Muscle Milk. He described my last couple of miles being like a punch drunk fighter who went 15 rounds, staggering and wobbling, like Rocky screaming for Adrian..."Yo Adrian get me the hell out of here"...
Albert. My running angel. Now you know why. He looked after me as he often does. I remember giving him water as he ran through his checkpoint (Ultra teams handoff every other checkpoint whereas the "normal" teams do it every time). I asked him how he was doing and he replied "Doing fine, make sure you're hydrating". Middle of a frickin hard run and he's making sure I'll be ok on mine. He was always checking on me - he knew I wasn't trained for this and I think he had a mission to make sure I didn't hurt myself. Now Albert was beginning to get a reputation on the course. Maybe it was because he ran in nothing but skimpy shorts and the girls from many teams took notice. I always ran after Albert. On more than one occasion while waiting for him, teams would ask about him - girls would ask about him. I should make note that there were very few Ultra teams and our running bibs were green not orange like everyone else - so the Ultras stuck out. Teams were amazed with his running. Same perfect form regardless of terrain. "Who is that guy", "He looks so strong", "Never looks tired". Albert had lots of nasty legs. Hills that the van had trouble going up he had to run. He pounded them out. He ran 16.7 miles in the middle of the night. He ran strong.
Kathy. She was our driver. She was really more than that. She drove the entire time less maybe two hours for a short nap. We never got lost, our runners were always there to take the handoff. A lot of teams can't say that. Runners hit the checkpoint and their van and next runner wasn't there. The van is your lifeline. Food, drink, and your support are all there. Without it you are done for. Thank you Kathy for navigating a difficult course and allowing us to recover without worry of taking a turn driving. I cannot imagine how I would have driven if I had too. It would have been impossible.
My second double. 3:00am. 7 miles. I was wearing the same clothes I ran my first double in. Never changed. If you're thinking gross you are right, I was one stinky boy. I was well hydrated and fueled. The night was beautiful. Nearly a full moon, not a cloud in the sky, and stars everywhere. I took the handoff as was off. I was alone running through a small town and neighborhood. Once in a while a car would drive by and I only saw one runner. I ran without music. Something clicked and I ran with ease. Strong but not stupid pace. I felt as if I was the only one on earth. It was so peaceful, just me and my headlamp. I only turned it off once when I had to pee like crazy and decided to pee on a fire hydrant. As silly as it sounds that was fun too. Hey, I had been up since 5:30am, it was now 22 hours later, one crappy leg down, and I had not slept a wink. I'm lucky I didn't pee on myself! I cruised to the checkpoint ahead of schedule, felt like I could run more, and handed off to Stephanie.
Shelly. The jack rabbit. Our crazy team captain that made all this happen. Thanks Shelly (I think)! This girl has a tremendous amount of energy. I need to mention that she had strep throat as well! She ran great legs - and she only trains on a treadmill. Shelly would run to music. But not with those little earphones you stick in your ear. No. She wore these huge headphones that looked like something from the 80's. Picture Princess Leia (Star Wars). That's it. Everyone noticed...it was funny. But it worked. Proof was found during her night time run. Shelly and her headset zipping along with quick little steps. We watched her coming up to some runners and bam, like a jack rabbit she picked up the pace and flew by them. It was so funny to watch. Her legs moved like those of a cartoon character when they would fly forward and then zip, the rest of the body would snap forward with a whoosh. I was laughing out loud. She never complained and ran hard.
Susan. The warrior. The power of this woman is amazing. She runs and runs. Never a complaint. Hardly a word. Beats the dickins out of every mile and keeps on going. I don't know how she does it. I would go into battle with her and she would lead the charge, taking out the enemy with each swing of the sword. She loves her grapes. Susan - I would run with you any time. Your approach to each leg, each mile was simply to knock them out. Get them down. And you did. You did it in such an impressive and quiet manner. Girl, you can kick some serious ass.
Bonus run. Don made the right decision with his hip and his double was up in 15 minutes. Shelly and I were awake so we were making plans. We decided to break it up and I would start and the team would catch up and we'd trade off. I got out to warm up and saw Stephanie come down to Deception State Park. I took a quick hit of my inhaler, tossed the water and jacket and ran over. I think she was surprised to see me. I took the handoff and started to run - only to get called back by the race official. He said to put on safety gear of wait 10 minutes (at 7:15am you no longer have to wear it). Screw waiting, Stephanie stopped and as she took stuff off I slammed on and off I went. It was painful. It had only been 90 minutes since my last run. I admit that my ankles were sore and quads burned with every step. As my feet hit the road I felt pain from my calf to my quad. It was almost funny. Why am I out here? Four miles later the van arrived and I was ready to rest.
Third and final double. 11.2 miles. The sun was back and I had a long one in front of me. Again I was pretty rested and fueled. Still no more than 30 minutes of sleep and it'd been about 27 hours since I slept and had three runs locked down. Learning a lesson from the first run, Susan gave me her pink top and they tied it on my head. I tossed on my shades and looked a bit like a gay pirate. Who cares...I'm a flippin Ultra running on my last double...I'm an athlete. Laugh if you will but I really didn't care what anyone thought. I saw my reflection in the window and loved the look. You'll see it on the picture I'll post with this. I took off slow but strong. The first 6 miles or so weren't bad. Long stretches of pavement. Passed the checkpoint and continued on for the second half of the double. Within a quarter mile I was running a steep hill. A half mile later I was at the top - tired. Running. Other vans were driving by yelling encouragement - that was great! Then I saw it. Yikes. On the horizon I saw the steepest hill ever. It was like a stairway to heaven. Maybe a mile in front of me. As I got closer I was sure that there would be a turn before the hill started and I would be saved. Then I saw our van. Parked a third of the way up. I saw Albert and yelled out something like "Who the fuck put that there". I knew I had to tackle it. It was crap. I ran/walked. Quads burned like hot coals had been jammed in them. The team cheered me on and I needed it. Cresting the top was amazing. I was sure God would be there but that wasn't the case. The rest of the run was good and the final one mile marker was in sight. All was good until I saw the last hill. Short but steep. Felt like I wasn't moving and the volunteer at the top yelled out "only 150 yards left". Inspiration. Better yet it was downhill. I handed off to Stephanie and I was done. Spent, relieved, proud, wiped. I sat and Stephanie took off on the last double our team had - the end was in sight.
Stephanie. Checkpoint angel and cruiser. I think you know now why she gets two names. She was the angel that told me without words that I would be ok. That it was ok to stop. That she would take it from here. The hug at the end of my last leg let me know my relay was over. It was ok to rest. Thanks Stephanie. She is a cruiser. Takes off and runs. Simply runs. Runs strong and focused. We usually didn't see her right away because the team would allow me time to recover before driving off. Then we'd hit the road and she'd be miles up the road. Her attitude was great and she is very funny. We hit it off. Sometimes you simply have to be silly to get through. Silly worked and we got through. She came in on the final stretch looking strong and we all felt this incredible joy, having completed the relay.
We smelled. We laughed. We hurt. There was support from each other, support from other teams. I know that this relay changed me a little. It wasn't easy and I struggled, struggled more that I ever have, more than I thought I would. It was more guts than training. Looking back I don't know how I managed all those miles. 31.5. More hills than I can remember. 30 plus hours without sleep. 50 plus honey bucket visits. I pushed through when I wanted to stop, when I thought I would throw up, when I hurt so bad I became numb, when I didn't know how my leg was taking another stride forward. It seemed more of a life test than a relay. Often alone. I'm glad I did it. Maybe you'll see something different in me, maybe not. My life has been different since my running started. It continues to evolve. To change. It doesn't work for everyone but it does for me. Maybe I'm selfish. I can't change who I am or am becoming. Push yourself. Don't settle. Expect a lot from yourself and you can expect it from others. Have fun. Be silly. Run...don't jog.
I didn't train properly for this run. I ran 400 meter sprints to gain speed. Many a day I ran them until I was going to puke. Then we decided to do something crazy - read the rules. Turns out Ultra teams run doubles which means the training should have been endurance and hills vs speed. No big deal, I had three weeks to transition my body from speed to more mileage than I ever dreamed of. Not so much. I entered this run trained for a different run. My longest run over the past 3 months had been 9 miles and most averaged 6. Now I was off to run between 28-30 (ended with a mileage count of 31.5 miles). Was I nervous? Maybe a little on the inside.
Around 7:00am Friday morning we jumped into the van that would be our home for the next 30 or so hours. Tight fit, no toilet, tires in need of air, and a rattle that sounded as if something was going to fall off but nothing ever did. We used the drive to Blaine to start getting to know each other - some of us had never met other than Facebook. We connected fast. Maybe because we were runners. Maybe it was the nervous jitters for the unknown adventure we were about to embark on. Regardless of the reason we were becoming friends by the time we hit Blaine. While it might not have seemed that important at the time, it would end up making the difference as the relay progressed.
Jerry. We had to produce three volunteers or pay $300. Jerry stepped up as a super volunteer and bailed us out. He was stationed in Coupeville from 2:00am - 1:00pm. Eleven hours, no sleep. Thank you Jerry. You're an amazing person.
We arrived in Blaine, checked in, and attended the safety briefing. This race is all about safety. There were more places on the course where you could be hit and seriously injured than you can imagine. Blind corners, cars flying by 55 mph, little or no running room on the road so you were in the street. Factor in running in the dark and you have the ingredients for disaster. We exited the briefing and began to soak in the excitement. Booths, teams, rock n roll music, energy. It was like a drug. I started to feel like anything was possible, my running shoes had magical powers that would carry me to the finish. Let's get this relay started!
Don. Our strongman. He ran the first leg, got us started out of the gate. It had to be nerve racking to go first. He took it in stride. He took the nervousness off our shoulders and placed it firmly on his own. His first double leg would tell us all something about what was ahead. He was out of the gate and running strong. We jumped in the van to begin our leapfrog approach - drive ahead, let the runner catch up to check on them, and drive further up and wait. Don was strong. Mile after mile he looked like an ironman. Just watching him run built confidence in me. Later in the relay after his second double Don was done. His hip said no more. I know it was hard for him to listen but he did the right thing and did not run his last double. It was smart. No run is worth the possible permanent damage an injury can cause. That decision spoke volumes about Don and I for one was impressed by it.
My first double. Ok, this looks to be a long blog so if you need to pee or get a drink of water go ahead, I'll wait. I learned a lesson about fueling on this leg - and maybe a bit about smart running. It was my first and worse leg. I woke at 5:30am and had a bowl of cereal. Snacked on the drive. Had a 6 inch sub and a couple bottles of water. At 5:30pm I started my first run. 80+ degrees, sun beating down, 9.3 miles, and Michael. I was ready. Go slow it's not a race. Take it easy you have a lot of miles before this relay is done. Got it. Lost it. Ran the first mile in 7:24, second in 7:45, third and fourth close to 8:00. I was spent. Had no juice, no energy. Spent it all on the first four frickin miles and had five to go. Stupid. I couldn't get out of the sun and my legs were heavy and didn't want to move. Albert got me water and told me to slow and take it easy. Around mile 7 he was waiting for me with some G2. I knew something was up the way he was looking at me. "Are you ok" "Are you dizzy" "How do you feel" "You back is clammy". Turns out I had a bit of heat exhaustion. The final couple of miles were painful. It's hard to describe. It was so hot I couldn't stand it yet I was cold at the same time. My magical running shoes had become cement. More than once I was ready for Jesus to take me. What the fuck was wrong with me, I'm a runner. I wasn't a smart runner. Then I saw her. Stephanie. She became my checkpoint angel. She would always run after me. She was always there ready to take the handoff and allow my pain to subside. I would have hugged her but I couldn't lift my arms - in fact I wasn't sure I still had them. Albert helped me to the van for G2, a banana, and my trusty Muscle Milk. He described my last couple of miles being like a punch drunk fighter who went 15 rounds, staggering and wobbling, like Rocky screaming for Adrian..."Yo Adrian get me the hell out of here"...
Albert. My running angel. Now you know why. He looked after me as he often does. I remember giving him water as he ran through his checkpoint (Ultra teams handoff every other checkpoint whereas the "normal" teams do it every time). I asked him how he was doing and he replied "Doing fine, make sure you're hydrating". Middle of a frickin hard run and he's making sure I'll be ok on mine. He was always checking on me - he knew I wasn't trained for this and I think he had a mission to make sure I didn't hurt myself. Now Albert was beginning to get a reputation on the course. Maybe it was because he ran in nothing but skimpy shorts and the girls from many teams took notice. I always ran after Albert. On more than one occasion while waiting for him, teams would ask about him - girls would ask about him. I should make note that there were very few Ultra teams and our running bibs were green not orange like everyone else - so the Ultras stuck out. Teams were amazed with his running. Same perfect form regardless of terrain. "Who is that guy", "He looks so strong", "Never looks tired". Albert had lots of nasty legs. Hills that the van had trouble going up he had to run. He pounded them out. He ran 16.7 miles in the middle of the night. He ran strong.
Kathy. She was our driver. She was really more than that. She drove the entire time less maybe two hours for a short nap. We never got lost, our runners were always there to take the handoff. A lot of teams can't say that. Runners hit the checkpoint and their van and next runner wasn't there. The van is your lifeline. Food, drink, and your support are all there. Without it you are done for. Thank you Kathy for navigating a difficult course and allowing us to recover without worry of taking a turn driving. I cannot imagine how I would have driven if I had too. It would have been impossible.
My second double. 3:00am. 7 miles. I was wearing the same clothes I ran my first double in. Never changed. If you're thinking gross you are right, I was one stinky boy. I was well hydrated and fueled. The night was beautiful. Nearly a full moon, not a cloud in the sky, and stars everywhere. I took the handoff as was off. I was alone running through a small town and neighborhood. Once in a while a car would drive by and I only saw one runner. I ran without music. Something clicked and I ran with ease. Strong but not stupid pace. I felt as if I was the only one on earth. It was so peaceful, just me and my headlamp. I only turned it off once when I had to pee like crazy and decided to pee on a fire hydrant. As silly as it sounds that was fun too. Hey, I had been up since 5:30am, it was now 22 hours later, one crappy leg down, and I had not slept a wink. I'm lucky I didn't pee on myself! I cruised to the checkpoint ahead of schedule, felt like I could run more, and handed off to Stephanie.
Shelly. The jack rabbit. Our crazy team captain that made all this happen. Thanks Shelly (I think)! This girl has a tremendous amount of energy. I need to mention that she had strep throat as well! She ran great legs - and she only trains on a treadmill. Shelly would run to music. But not with those little earphones you stick in your ear. No. She wore these huge headphones that looked like something from the 80's. Picture Princess Leia (Star Wars). That's it. Everyone noticed...it was funny. But it worked. Proof was found during her night time run. Shelly and her headset zipping along with quick little steps. We watched her coming up to some runners and bam, like a jack rabbit she picked up the pace and flew by them. It was so funny to watch. Her legs moved like those of a cartoon character when they would fly forward and then zip, the rest of the body would snap forward with a whoosh. I was laughing out loud. She never complained and ran hard.
Susan. The warrior. The power of this woman is amazing. She runs and runs. Never a complaint. Hardly a word. Beats the dickins out of every mile and keeps on going. I don't know how she does it. I would go into battle with her and she would lead the charge, taking out the enemy with each swing of the sword. She loves her grapes. Susan - I would run with you any time. Your approach to each leg, each mile was simply to knock them out. Get them down. And you did. You did it in such an impressive and quiet manner. Girl, you can kick some serious ass.
Bonus run. Don made the right decision with his hip and his double was up in 15 minutes. Shelly and I were awake so we were making plans. We decided to break it up and I would start and the team would catch up and we'd trade off. I got out to warm up and saw Stephanie come down to Deception State Park. I took a quick hit of my inhaler, tossed the water and jacket and ran over. I think she was surprised to see me. I took the handoff and started to run - only to get called back by the race official. He said to put on safety gear of wait 10 minutes (at 7:15am you no longer have to wear it). Screw waiting, Stephanie stopped and as she took stuff off I slammed on and off I went. It was painful. It had only been 90 minutes since my last run. I admit that my ankles were sore and quads burned with every step. As my feet hit the road I felt pain from my calf to my quad. It was almost funny. Why am I out here? Four miles later the van arrived and I was ready to rest.
Third and final double. 11.2 miles. The sun was back and I had a long one in front of me. Again I was pretty rested and fueled. Still no more than 30 minutes of sleep and it'd been about 27 hours since I slept and had three runs locked down. Learning a lesson from the first run, Susan gave me her pink top and they tied it on my head. I tossed on my shades and looked a bit like a gay pirate. Who cares...I'm a flippin Ultra running on my last double...I'm an athlete. Laugh if you will but I really didn't care what anyone thought. I saw my reflection in the window and loved the look. You'll see it on the picture I'll post with this. I took off slow but strong. The first 6 miles or so weren't bad. Long stretches of pavement. Passed the checkpoint and continued on for the second half of the double. Within a quarter mile I was running a steep hill. A half mile later I was at the top - tired. Running. Other vans were driving by yelling encouragement - that was great! Then I saw it. Yikes. On the horizon I saw the steepest hill ever. It was like a stairway to heaven. Maybe a mile in front of me. As I got closer I was sure that there would be a turn before the hill started and I would be saved. Then I saw our van. Parked a third of the way up. I saw Albert and yelled out something like "Who the fuck put that there". I knew I had to tackle it. It was crap. I ran/walked. Quads burned like hot coals had been jammed in them. The team cheered me on and I needed it. Cresting the top was amazing. I was sure God would be there but that wasn't the case. The rest of the run was good and the final one mile marker was in sight. All was good until I saw the last hill. Short but steep. Felt like I wasn't moving and the volunteer at the top yelled out "only 150 yards left". Inspiration. Better yet it was downhill. I handed off to Stephanie and I was done. Spent, relieved, proud, wiped. I sat and Stephanie took off on the last double our team had - the end was in sight.
Stephanie. Checkpoint angel and cruiser. I think you know now why she gets two names. She was the angel that told me without words that I would be ok. That it was ok to stop. That she would take it from here. The hug at the end of my last leg let me know my relay was over. It was ok to rest. Thanks Stephanie. She is a cruiser. Takes off and runs. Simply runs. Runs strong and focused. We usually didn't see her right away because the team would allow me time to recover before driving off. Then we'd hit the road and she'd be miles up the road. Her attitude was great and she is very funny. We hit it off. Sometimes you simply have to be silly to get through. Silly worked and we got through. She came in on the final stretch looking strong and we all felt this incredible joy, having completed the relay.
We smelled. We laughed. We hurt. There was support from each other, support from other teams. I know that this relay changed me a little. It wasn't easy and I struggled, struggled more that I ever have, more than I thought I would. It was more guts than training. Looking back I don't know how I managed all those miles. 31.5. More hills than I can remember. 30 plus hours without sleep. 50 plus honey bucket visits. I pushed through when I wanted to stop, when I thought I would throw up, when I hurt so bad I became numb, when I didn't know how my leg was taking another stride forward. It seemed more of a life test than a relay. Often alone. I'm glad I did it. Maybe you'll see something different in me, maybe not. My life has been different since my running started. It continues to evolve. To change. It doesn't work for everyone but it does for me. Maybe I'm selfish. I can't change who I am or am becoming. Push yourself. Don't settle. Expect a lot from yourself and you can expect it from others. Have fun. Be silly. Run...don't jog.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Like a bottle rocket
That was the plan. Run like a bottle rocket. Illegal, fast, and somewhat out of control. Reality - not so much. I paid to run so the illegal angle was shot right off the bat. My 7:28 pace felt fast but I was a few seconds slower than last year and my age division kicked my butt. I was however out of control. I had to fight through this one. The first two miles were ok but mile three was an awkward pace - up and down, form good and bad. If I was in a zone it was the Twilight Zone. My mind wandered. Poor focus equals poor results. Finally I zeroed in on an old guy in front of me. Clearly in my age division. I closed in behind him and attempted to "draft". After a couple of minutes he turned his head and said "I can hear you back there" and he slid over to the side. I let out a soft whimpered "sorry" and slowed a bit. I knew my time wouldn't rock the world and decided that what was important now was to finished before this guy. I matched my pace with his and once we made the final turn toward the finish I lit my bottle rocket - lit my bottle rocket, that doesn't sound right does it? Anyway, it was lit and I took off. I hurt, my legs hurt, my lungs hurt. He finished behind me. I have a picture that I will post. Small victories...nothing wrong with that. If there was a first place medal for finding one's happy place, it would be mine.
Enough about me. Today some of the Tri team ran. Let me start by saying that some days are simply better than others. Other days surprise you. Today it was both. Today I saw heart and determination. Love and support. A couple months ago most of us were strangers. Today we're just strange. Not really....ok, maybe a little - but somehow it works for us and that's what matters. It was incredible to see everyone coming down the home stretch, running their hearts out, pushing their limits. As they came down the home stretch I was thinking about our first team run. It seemed so long ago and these now familiar faces weren't newbies anymore - they were runners. Hitting their stride, pumping their arms, driving to the finish. Each one cheering for the next runner coming in. Time meant zip. Support meant everything. You guys are unbelievable. Shawnte and Melanie - wowza! I think you've been holding back on us, great run today! I think the Tuesday and Saturday runs will be turned up a notch or two.
Strange. Unique. Tri-team. Let's see. Albert and I were in the men's room hoping to drop our running weight by a pound or two (with no success). I'm finishing my task at hand and I hear this very familiar feminine voice - Sharon. Once again she's in the men's room. Moves right to the front of the line asking the line if they mind. What would you say? She pops into a stall and the guy who had just stepped out of it looks at me and says "Tell her it wasn't me, it was the guy who was in there before me"....yup, that's our world.
Then we had the naked brothers. David and Albert. You would have thought they were at the Bare Buns Run, not the wholesome YMCA. They both kicked my ass today - Albert recorded at PR, nearly breaking the 20 minute mark. David just ran. He's a runner. I don't believe he thinks about it, just runs. Fast. Speaking of nearly naked, Sharon had a new running bra which we all had the opportunity to ah, review. I kept eye contact. Eye contact only. Look at her eyes Michael. I might have failed a few times. For the first time ever - first time ever - Sharon lied about her age. In her "new" age division she came in second. Had she put down her real age she would have walked away with a first place medal. Go figure.
Heather surprised me the most. Talk about grit. That girl doesn't give up. We have run together many times, often in the back of the pack. But each time she gets better. Each time she gives it everything. Today was no different and she looked great crossing the finish line. Her hubby Iain (rocket scientist) worked out formulas to determine where she would be at various points so he could take pictures. He was spot on. Wow. We looked like a cult in our yellow Tri shirts. I didn't wear mine because I have a shirt I like to run in. Received the stink eye for not wearing it but I like to think I was forgiven as the day progressed. After running his fastest 5K, Albert ran back to support others and ran them in to the finish. Heart. He's a good man.
Had lunch with Sharon's parents - had a blast. Her dad is battling health issues and I wish him the best - pulling for him. He's a tough guy who I respect and he'll come out of this strong. He quizzed me on World Cup history and for once I think I held my own. Funny guy. Smart guy. Her mom is always fun to hang around. She'll make you laugh and when you sit back and just listen to her you quickly see the depth of a person who has experienced so much, both good and bad, and enjoys every day.
I find myself to be lucky. Lucky to know the people I do. Lucky that they look past my faults and accept me for me. The not so perfect. I can only be who I am. Do what I do. Feel how I feel. I forgive and am forgiven. Nothing is too serious nor too silly. Life isn't easy but each day is replaced with another. Another opportunity. Make the most of yours. Be silly. Love. Run naked.
Enough about me. Today some of the Tri team ran. Let me start by saying that some days are simply better than others. Other days surprise you. Today it was both. Today I saw heart and determination. Love and support. A couple months ago most of us were strangers. Today we're just strange. Not really....ok, maybe a little - but somehow it works for us and that's what matters. It was incredible to see everyone coming down the home stretch, running their hearts out, pushing their limits. As they came down the home stretch I was thinking about our first team run. It seemed so long ago and these now familiar faces weren't newbies anymore - they were runners. Hitting their stride, pumping their arms, driving to the finish. Each one cheering for the next runner coming in. Time meant zip. Support meant everything. You guys are unbelievable. Shawnte and Melanie - wowza! I think you've been holding back on us, great run today! I think the Tuesday and Saturday runs will be turned up a notch or two.
Strange. Unique. Tri-team. Let's see. Albert and I were in the men's room hoping to drop our running weight by a pound or two (with no success). I'm finishing my task at hand and I hear this very familiar feminine voice - Sharon. Once again she's in the men's room. Moves right to the front of the line asking the line if they mind. What would you say? She pops into a stall and the guy who had just stepped out of it looks at me and says "Tell her it wasn't me, it was the guy who was in there before me"....yup, that's our world.
Then we had the naked brothers. David and Albert. You would have thought they were at the Bare Buns Run, not the wholesome YMCA. They both kicked my ass today - Albert recorded at PR, nearly breaking the 20 minute mark. David just ran. He's a runner. I don't believe he thinks about it, just runs. Fast. Speaking of nearly naked, Sharon had a new running bra which we all had the opportunity to ah, review. I kept eye contact. Eye contact only. Look at her eyes Michael. I might have failed a few times. For the first time ever - first time ever - Sharon lied about her age. In her "new" age division she came in second. Had she put down her real age she would have walked away with a first place medal. Go figure.
Heather surprised me the most. Talk about grit. That girl doesn't give up. We have run together many times, often in the back of the pack. But each time she gets better. Each time she gives it everything. Today was no different and she looked great crossing the finish line. Her hubby Iain (rocket scientist) worked out formulas to determine where she would be at various points so he could take pictures. He was spot on. Wow. We looked like a cult in our yellow Tri shirts. I didn't wear mine because I have a shirt I like to run in. Received the stink eye for not wearing it but I like to think I was forgiven as the day progressed. After running his fastest 5K, Albert ran back to support others and ran them in to the finish. Heart. He's a good man.
Had lunch with Sharon's parents - had a blast. Her dad is battling health issues and I wish him the best - pulling for him. He's a tough guy who I respect and he'll come out of this strong. He quizzed me on World Cup history and for once I think I held my own. Funny guy. Smart guy. Her mom is always fun to hang around. She'll make you laugh and when you sit back and just listen to her you quickly see the depth of a person who has experienced so much, both good and bad, and enjoys every day.
I find myself to be lucky. Lucky to know the people I do. Lucky that they look past my faults and accept me for me. The not so perfect. I can only be who I am. Do what I do. Feel how I feel. I forgive and am forgiven. Nothing is too serious nor too silly. Life isn't easy but each day is replaced with another. Another opportunity. Make the most of yours. Be silly. Love. Run naked.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Short Stack 5K
Short Stack 5K. Sounds like a $2.99 breakfast special at IHOP. It's not. Though it sounds good as long as it comes with a side of bacon so crispy the 'fat' looks like meat. That's my secret for eating bacon - also the beauty of it. Cook it long enough and the fat chars to the point it actually looks like meat. Mentally it's now good for me - fat free bacon. If I think about it long enough maybe I can find the same happy place with Double Stuff Oreos.
The 5K wasn't really called the short stack. I could use diminutive. Maybe even petite. Yes, the Petite 5K. No...it wasn't a race for er, how do we phrase it today....little people. It was a 5K that was more like a 4K. 5K = 3.1 miles. This one was 2.72. Really? Yup. Runners are ready for that time when you know you have about a quarter mile left to go and you get ready to push every fiber in your body for a strong finish. But in this case, I round a corner and there was the finish line. Right there. The clock read 19:50:17. For a brief moment I didn't care that it was short. A sub 20 5K would be worth blogging about. Maybe even a tattoo. Then I check my trusty Garmin and what I already know is proven beyond a doubt. It read 2.72....
It also gave up another number. A beautiful number. 7:24. My pace. I could celebrate after all. Third fastest pace ever. It felt great - here I was 51 years old and still running hard. In many ways, better than ever. *Time to thank some people. Albert - running form. I was leaning! Not perfect but it made a difference - and I don't think I heal struck even one time! Sharon - well, you know. Tri-team - you have me swimming and biking which has improved my overall fitness. It's amazing how much cardio a guy can get gasping for breath in the pool.
I had a great 7:01 first mile. At the end of it my right shoelace came undone. Crap. One lace was hitting my opposite leg but I didn't want to stop. I was thinking about the shoelaces that won't come undone that Jerry talked about during his clinic. I should have bought them I thought. Then the other lace started hitting me too. Pisser. Now I know I have to stop and tie them before I trip over myself. I pull over, bend down and start the process. You know those movies where the person is being chased and they jump in the car and it takes them forever to get the key in the ignition? That was me. Ten thumbs. As runners flew by I got more and more frustrated. Finally got it down and I'm sure it didn't take as much time as it seemed to me - though I started the race with stubble and now had a full beard.
I managed to catch one of the three that passed me (yes, I counted them). The other two probably would have passed me anyway since they continued to pull away. For the rest of the race I was in a pocket. Couldn't pass anyone and no one passed me. I knew I was moving fast because this was an out and back course and I was well on my way back and runners were still not at the half way point.
After finishing the race I stuck around for the results - I'm always curious to how I place in my age division. Today was a good day. I won my age division. Beat a bunch of 40, 30, and 20 somethings in the process. Truth be told, a 14 year old girl beat me so I best not get all cocky. Teenagers amaze me. After the race they look like they could run another one. Me, it's all I can do to find half a banana and a water.
It was time to go. Albert and Sharon weren't able to join me since they were running with the tri team and the race experience isn't the same when you can't share it. I know, poor Michael. No sooner did I get in the car (and with ease slid my key into the ignition on the first try) that I had a message about a trip to Speedy Reedy. I'm all in. Turns out it was in Fremont and in Fremont was the solstice parade. We didn't know that until we rounded the corner and came face to face with naked people riding bikes. Naked. I mean I saw...well, that's another story...until then give it all you got, leave nothing for tomorrow, and Run...don't jog.
The 5K wasn't really called the short stack. I could use diminutive. Maybe even petite. Yes, the Petite 5K. No...it wasn't a race for er, how do we phrase it today....little people. It was a 5K that was more like a 4K. 5K = 3.1 miles. This one was 2.72. Really? Yup. Runners are ready for that time when you know you have about a quarter mile left to go and you get ready to push every fiber in your body for a strong finish. But in this case, I round a corner and there was the finish line. Right there. The clock read 19:50:17. For a brief moment I didn't care that it was short. A sub 20 5K would be worth blogging about. Maybe even a tattoo. Then I check my trusty Garmin and what I already know is proven beyond a doubt. It read 2.72....
It also gave up another number. A beautiful number. 7:24. My pace. I could celebrate after all. Third fastest pace ever. It felt great - here I was 51 years old and still running hard. In many ways, better than ever. *Time to thank some people. Albert - running form. I was leaning! Not perfect but it made a difference - and I don't think I heal struck even one time! Sharon - well, you know. Tri-team - you have me swimming and biking which has improved my overall fitness. It's amazing how much cardio a guy can get gasping for breath in the pool.
I had a great 7:01 first mile. At the end of it my right shoelace came undone. Crap. One lace was hitting my opposite leg but I didn't want to stop. I was thinking about the shoelaces that won't come undone that Jerry talked about during his clinic. I should have bought them I thought. Then the other lace started hitting me too. Pisser. Now I know I have to stop and tie them before I trip over myself. I pull over, bend down and start the process. You know those movies where the person is being chased and they jump in the car and it takes them forever to get the key in the ignition? That was me. Ten thumbs. As runners flew by I got more and more frustrated. Finally got it down and I'm sure it didn't take as much time as it seemed to me - though I started the race with stubble and now had a full beard.
I managed to catch one of the three that passed me (yes, I counted them). The other two probably would have passed me anyway since they continued to pull away. For the rest of the race I was in a pocket. Couldn't pass anyone and no one passed me. I knew I was moving fast because this was an out and back course and I was well on my way back and runners were still not at the half way point.
After finishing the race I stuck around for the results - I'm always curious to how I place in my age division. Today was a good day. I won my age division. Beat a bunch of 40, 30, and 20 somethings in the process. Truth be told, a 14 year old girl beat me so I best not get all cocky. Teenagers amaze me. After the race they look like they could run another one. Me, it's all I can do to find half a banana and a water.
It was time to go. Albert and Sharon weren't able to join me since they were running with the tri team and the race experience isn't the same when you can't share it. I know, poor Michael. No sooner did I get in the car (and with ease slid my key into the ignition on the first try) that I had a message about a trip to Speedy Reedy. I'm all in. Turns out it was in Fremont and in Fremont was the solstice parade. We didn't know that until we rounded the corner and came face to face with naked people riding bikes. Naked. I mean I saw...well, that's another story...until then give it all you got, leave nothing for tomorrow, and Run...don't jog.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Just "Tri" it!
This is a bit of a rare blog for me. Normally I write about a recent race to share my thoughts and experiences - you may find sprinkles of humor, my often odd perspectives, and if you read along long enough, truths that provide some insight to who I am. That may or may not be the person you see everyday.
You don't have to read many blogs to know that my ace in the hole, my rabbits foot, the light that has guided my running journey is Sharon. It goes well beyond running. I eat better, my overall physical health is better, and on a good day in the right light and being careful to not look directly at them, I have abs. Whenever I have followed her training plan I have been successful. I love her at the finish line though admit to cursing her name more than once during a training session. You can't go any further or harder but somehow you do. You think you will puke but don't (that warm gurgle in your throat does not count). I find it difficult to express my level of appreciation - "Thank you Sharon" seems inadequate. In March Sharon began work on a triathlon program for the YMCA and asked if I would help with the running. Without hesitation I was all in. All in - don't doubt it, count on it, that's me. Soon I became involved as a participant in the swimming and biking.
Running. That's my deal. I am not the best but find that I can hold my own against my age division. Some days I can even kick some butt. Note that as you get older the "age division" becomes your best friend. Screw the 20 year old who finishes the race, grabs a bite, takes a nap, and comes back to the finish line to see you come across. Oh you beautiful age divisions - let's continue to grow that relationship, I think I'm in love. Running with the team has been very rewarding. Partly because I am now spewing wisdom taught to me not long ago - teaching is fun and it serves as a great reminder that we are all so very different. Also because I enjoy running - there is a freedom to it. Mostly however because of the great people I am running with. They are amazing and inspiring. Some are fast, others are getting there. Every week yields another personal success and victories are everywhere. They are fighters and I am lucky to know them.
Biking. I thought this would be easy. Wrong. My bike apparently is too big for me (maybe I need one of those little circus bikes the clowns ride), the chain falls off at least once a ride, and the gears often decide to change on their own. Then there is the fact that while it seems easy, I ride like crap. I'm a middle of the pack, quad burning, gear grinding, never wears the proper clothing to be warm, why does my ass hurt so much, want to be biker. My bike seat. I don't even know what to say. Let's just say that by the end of the ride my ass and the bike seat have become so intimate that one of them should have a cigarette.
Swimming. Where do I start? I don't like water and water does not like me. My struggle is really deeper than that. The moment I walk into the pool my world changes. I would rather be anywhere than in the pool at that moment. I suck - both mentality and physically. I am trying and today marked my 5th attempt (is it sad that I count them?). It's clear that I am the worse one in the pool - which by the way is rough. It's important to say that while I struggle, the team is nothing but great. They support me and never make me feel like I live in Loserville USA, Population 1 sinker. Thank you guys for that - it helps more than you know. I have received one on one coaching the past two weeks and today I felt like I took a step forward. Though I was on the "kiddie" side, I made it end to end without stopping to choke. A first for me. Go Michael go Michael. Maybe I am getting ahead of myself - it was only one day. But soon I may be putting together the coaching from Brook and Lisa and sliding across the pool instead of looking like I fell in quicksand. Time will tell. At the very least, our lifeguard Josh won't have to keep his eyes on me all the time.
While I may never do a triathlon the journey I am on today is more rewarding everyday. I am getting to know the team better and with each interaction I find myself being drawn in to each of them more and more. They are fantastic people - I am honored to know them. Sharon has done an incredible job organizing, directing, and teaching. She is the heart of the program and puts more into it than we'll probably ever know. Thank you Sharon - again, seems inadequate. Maybe the best way to say it is to simply say that whatever you need, I'm all in. Swimming excluded of course....
You don't have to read many blogs to know that my ace in the hole, my rabbits foot, the light that has guided my running journey is Sharon. It goes well beyond running. I eat better, my overall physical health is better, and on a good day in the right light and being careful to not look directly at them, I have abs. Whenever I have followed her training plan I have been successful. I love her at the finish line though admit to cursing her name more than once during a training session. You can't go any further or harder but somehow you do. You think you will puke but don't (that warm gurgle in your throat does not count). I find it difficult to express my level of appreciation - "Thank you Sharon" seems inadequate. In March Sharon began work on a triathlon program for the YMCA and asked if I would help with the running. Without hesitation I was all in. All in - don't doubt it, count on it, that's me. Soon I became involved as a participant in the swimming and biking.
Running. That's my deal. I am not the best but find that I can hold my own against my age division. Some days I can even kick some butt. Note that as you get older the "age division" becomes your best friend. Screw the 20 year old who finishes the race, grabs a bite, takes a nap, and comes back to the finish line to see you come across. Oh you beautiful age divisions - let's continue to grow that relationship, I think I'm in love. Running with the team has been very rewarding. Partly because I am now spewing wisdom taught to me not long ago - teaching is fun and it serves as a great reminder that we are all so very different. Also because I enjoy running - there is a freedom to it. Mostly however because of the great people I am running with. They are amazing and inspiring. Some are fast, others are getting there. Every week yields another personal success and victories are everywhere. They are fighters and I am lucky to know them.
Biking. I thought this would be easy. Wrong. My bike apparently is too big for me (maybe I need one of those little circus bikes the clowns ride), the chain falls off at least once a ride, and the gears often decide to change on their own. Then there is the fact that while it seems easy, I ride like crap. I'm a middle of the pack, quad burning, gear grinding, never wears the proper clothing to be warm, why does my ass hurt so much, want to be biker. My bike seat. I don't even know what to say. Let's just say that by the end of the ride my ass and the bike seat have become so intimate that one of them should have a cigarette.
Swimming. Where do I start? I don't like water and water does not like me. My struggle is really deeper than that. The moment I walk into the pool my world changes. I would rather be anywhere than in the pool at that moment. I suck - both mentality and physically. I am trying and today marked my 5th attempt (is it sad that I count them?). It's clear that I am the worse one in the pool - which by the way is rough. It's important to say that while I struggle, the team is nothing but great. They support me and never make me feel like I live in Loserville USA, Population 1 sinker. Thank you guys for that - it helps more than you know. I have received one on one coaching the past two weeks and today I felt like I took a step forward. Though I was on the "kiddie" side, I made it end to end without stopping to choke. A first for me. Go Michael go Michael. Maybe I am getting ahead of myself - it was only one day. But soon I may be putting together the coaching from Brook and Lisa and sliding across the pool instead of looking like I fell in quicksand. Time will tell. At the very least, our lifeguard Josh won't have to keep his eyes on me all the time.
While I may never do a triathlon the journey I am on today is more rewarding everyday. I am getting to know the team better and with each interaction I find myself being drawn in to each of them more and more. They are fantastic people - I am honored to know them. Sharon has done an incredible job organizing, directing, and teaching. She is the heart of the program and puts more into it than we'll probably ever know. Thank you Sharon - again, seems inadequate. Maybe the best way to say it is to simply say that whatever you need, I'm all in. Swimming excluded of course....
Sunday, May 2, 2010
The Return
It's not really all that dramatic but to me it was a BAFCWT - using code here because mom reads my blog and I'd like to keep the halo above the head.... BAFCWT. Figuring it out can be like staring those specialty license plates. No matter how hard you try, zippo, nothing....you have no idea what it says. The driver does and I'm sure it was worth the $100 extra he paid to be "cute".
It was a big day for me because I hadn't raced since January 1st (recall the dip into Lake Washington). Four months is a long time to be away. My holiday was courtesy of pneumonia and back issues. It is now the dawning of a new day and I was returning to racing. I was a bit nervous even though it was only a 5 mile race. I ran that mileage the past two Sundays but the speed wasn't there. Hitting the distance was a mental victory though. Distance first, speed comes later. That's what I'm told. Right Sharon? Albert?
Regardless of your personal expectations, nerves always creep in. I told myself it'd be just another Sunday run and shave the pace down close to 9:00. Relax. That's what you say out loud. Inside there is a voice that speaks evil. "You know you can really run faster if you try"...."You've done it before"...."It'll be fine". As soon as that crazy talk crosses your mind you begin to calculate what your finish time would be and your race plan begins to shift. You begin to convince yourself very quickly that maybe you are fitter than you really are. I've done it before and believe me, your body will deliver some nasty payback the next day.
I saw a lot of friends at the race - I love that. It adds to the fun. Albert was there for the half marathon - talk about a challenge. One cannot just wake up and decide to knock out 13.1 miles. You plan, train, plan, train, it never stops. He was ready but like me, a little nervous. Between the two of us it was difficult to know how many trips to the john we made....darn nerves....He worked his way into the crowd of runners and was off and running. Quickly around the corner and whoosh...gone.
My start time was getting close so I left the warm gym and walked out to shiver at the start line. I lined up right in front and was ready to roll. Nerves gone. Garmin ready. iPod set to start me off with Taylor Swift - You belong with me. It's a manly song so shut up. The horn sounds and I'm off. Too fast. I slow down and runners pass me like I'm not even moving. I speed up. Too fast. I slow down. I dropped into somewhat of a rhythm and mile one is history. 7:57. I slow. The miles come and go and I sway between feeling good and struggling. I know I'm pushing myself beyond my plan. So I slow a bit. I'm passed. She is wearing a pink tutu. What the H? Do you know what it feels like to be passed by a tutu? The evil voice comes back. "You're not really going to let the girl in the tutu beat you?". I speed up. Mile marker 4 and the race is now me and the tutu. Everything else is invisible to me. Nothing else matters. Trouble is the tutu seems to be pulling away. I speed up. The tutu speeds up. We hit the track which means a quarter mile left. I'm tapped. The tutu has fuel in her tank. She pulls away and wins our little challenge. I'd tell her nice race but the pace of my breathing wouldn't allow for anything. I grab a water and go inside to wait for Albert.
Turns out my pace (8:12) was good enough for a 3rd place finish in my division - a good day but I already feel the rebellion my body would soon bring on. Until then I'll enjoy my personal victory. I was 64 of 404 but my heart rate average was 182. 192 during the tutu battle in mile 5. I have some work to do there.
Albert kicked butt with a 1:39:10 half marathon (7:31 pace). 51 of 474 - nice!!! His second best ever. What was more incredible was that the next day he was at the Y at 7:00 for swimming and cycle - and looking fresh. He's training for a sprint triathlon. Oh, and the Portland marathon. And let's not forget the Ragnar Relay (24 hour, 6 person, 189 mile race). I know, wow!
I'm glad to be running again and I look forward to the nasty training plan Sharon will put together for me. As I've stated many a time, I don't like much of the training, sometimes curse her, but each and every time I have followed her training plan I have turned in a great race as a result of it. So bring it on. Speed will reign once again and my friends I will once again live to my motto. Run...Don't jog.
It was a big day for me because I hadn't raced since January 1st (recall the dip into Lake Washington). Four months is a long time to be away. My holiday was courtesy of pneumonia and back issues. It is now the dawning of a new day and I was returning to racing. I was a bit nervous even though it was only a 5 mile race. I ran that mileage the past two Sundays but the speed wasn't there. Hitting the distance was a mental victory though. Distance first, speed comes later. That's what I'm told. Right Sharon? Albert?
Regardless of your personal expectations, nerves always creep in. I told myself it'd be just another Sunday run and shave the pace down close to 9:00. Relax. That's what you say out loud. Inside there is a voice that speaks evil. "You know you can really run faster if you try"...."You've done it before"...."It'll be fine". As soon as that crazy talk crosses your mind you begin to calculate what your finish time would be and your race plan begins to shift. You begin to convince yourself very quickly that maybe you are fitter than you really are. I've done it before and believe me, your body will deliver some nasty payback the next day.
I saw a lot of friends at the race - I love that. It adds to the fun. Albert was there for the half marathon - talk about a challenge. One cannot just wake up and decide to knock out 13.1 miles. You plan, train, plan, train, it never stops. He was ready but like me, a little nervous. Between the two of us it was difficult to know how many trips to the john we made....darn nerves....He worked his way into the crowd of runners and was off and running. Quickly around the corner and whoosh...gone.
My start time was getting close so I left the warm gym and walked out to shiver at the start line. I lined up right in front and was ready to roll. Nerves gone. Garmin ready. iPod set to start me off with Taylor Swift - You belong with me. It's a manly song so shut up. The horn sounds and I'm off. Too fast. I slow down and runners pass me like I'm not even moving. I speed up. Too fast. I slow down. I dropped into somewhat of a rhythm and mile one is history. 7:57. I slow. The miles come and go and I sway between feeling good and struggling. I know I'm pushing myself beyond my plan. So I slow a bit. I'm passed. She is wearing a pink tutu. What the H? Do you know what it feels like to be passed by a tutu? The evil voice comes back. "You're not really going to let the girl in the tutu beat you?". I speed up. Mile marker 4 and the race is now me and the tutu. Everything else is invisible to me. Nothing else matters. Trouble is the tutu seems to be pulling away. I speed up. The tutu speeds up. We hit the track which means a quarter mile left. I'm tapped. The tutu has fuel in her tank. She pulls away and wins our little challenge. I'd tell her nice race but the pace of my breathing wouldn't allow for anything. I grab a water and go inside to wait for Albert.
Turns out my pace (8:12) was good enough for a 3rd place finish in my division - a good day but I already feel the rebellion my body would soon bring on. Until then I'll enjoy my personal victory. I was 64 of 404 but my heart rate average was 182. 192 during the tutu battle in mile 5. I have some work to do there.
Albert kicked butt with a 1:39:10 half marathon (7:31 pace). 51 of 474 - nice!!! His second best ever. What was more incredible was that the next day he was at the Y at 7:00 for swimming and cycle - and looking fresh. He's training for a sprint triathlon. Oh, and the Portland marathon. And let's not forget the Ragnar Relay (24 hour, 6 person, 189 mile race). I know, wow!
I'm glad to be running again and I look forward to the nasty training plan Sharon will put together for me. As I've stated many a time, I don't like much of the training, sometimes curse her, but each and every time I have followed her training plan I have turned in a great race as a result of it. So bring it on. Speed will reign once again and my friends I will once again live to my motto. Run...Don't jog.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Perspective
Today was one of those days. You know the kind. The run of the mill - I've done this before - no surprises - it's going to be a good day - kind of day. Today I was going to Albert's 10K as a support buddy. No running for me. After coming back from pneumonia I was lucky enough to throw my back out. Maybe I should buy some lottery tickets.... If you thought I complained during the pneumonia bout, well that paled when my back decided to plan a revolt of it's own (likely just to get some attention). So support buddy/spectator was my role and I was good with that. Why? Well first off Albert has been there for me and it's never as fun to go to a race alone. Then there's the role of a spectator - no pre-race nerves, pace pressure, or concern that the Honey Bucket line is too long.
The race had three sub races weaved in. There was a 10K, 5K, and 1 mile walk. After the 10K started I began to feel a bit sorry for myself. "Wish I could run" pumped in and out of my brain. Then the 5K runners took off. As I watched them burn through the start line and slip around the corner and out of sight, I could feel the frustration build inside. It's not fair I thought, I train hard and I deserve to be out there. I know I can beat a lot of them. Stupid back. Why does it have to be so freakin sore? So I walk over and pour a free cup of coffee from one of the vendor booths and continue to tell myself how unfair the world can be....unfair to me.
I hear the race director announce that the 1 mile walk is about to begin. One mile walk. I nearly laughed out loud. Gee, that's some test of endurance, walking a whole mile. The horn goes off and walkers glide past me. It was almost silly. Some of them in matching hats, others in matching shirts, and still others fiddling with their iPODs. My eyes are on the pack as they slowly round the corner - seeee ya! I say to myself. I turn back towards the start line and at that moment my day started to change. I saw a young boy maybe 8 years old using a walker with his mom by his side. He had maybe traveled 20 feet in the time everyone else had covered a couple blocks. His short shuffle steps barely moved him forward and mom was right behind him, her hands close to the walker but not quite touching it. He was proudly wearing his race number on the front of his shirt and the smile and pride on his face as he inched forward melted your heart. I cut across the grass to watch his progress. Every step deliberate, every moment special.
I walked back to the start/finish line no longer feeling that life was being unfair to me. Actually the little guy had choked me up a little. Life has tossed him a crappy card and there he was, giving that one mile everything he had. His picture is off to the left. At the finish line I began to see many special needs kids coming down the home stretch. Each one in their own way pushing hard at the finish. There were only a few spectators but the cheering was infectious. I was right there with them clapping and yelling as one after another they came across the finish line. I had tears on my cheeks and didn't care. Today was a good day. An unexpected day. A day I wish we could all experience. Perspective....it's a good thing.
The race had three sub races weaved in. There was a 10K, 5K, and 1 mile walk. After the 10K started I began to feel a bit sorry for myself. "Wish I could run" pumped in and out of my brain. Then the 5K runners took off. As I watched them burn through the start line and slip around the corner and out of sight, I could feel the frustration build inside. It's not fair I thought, I train hard and I deserve to be out there. I know I can beat a lot of them. Stupid back. Why does it have to be so freakin sore? So I walk over and pour a free cup of coffee from one of the vendor booths and continue to tell myself how unfair the world can be....unfair to me.
I hear the race director announce that the 1 mile walk is about to begin. One mile walk. I nearly laughed out loud. Gee, that's some test of endurance, walking a whole mile. The horn goes off and walkers glide past me. It was almost silly. Some of them in matching hats, others in matching shirts, and still others fiddling with their iPODs. My eyes are on the pack as they slowly round the corner - seeee ya! I say to myself. I turn back towards the start line and at that moment my day started to change. I saw a young boy maybe 8 years old using a walker with his mom by his side. He had maybe traveled 20 feet in the time everyone else had covered a couple blocks. His short shuffle steps barely moved him forward and mom was right behind him, her hands close to the walker but not quite touching it. He was proudly wearing his race number on the front of his shirt and the smile and pride on his face as he inched forward melted your heart. I cut across the grass to watch his progress. Every step deliberate, every moment special.
I walked back to the start/finish line no longer feeling that life was being unfair to me. Actually the little guy had choked me up a little. Life has tossed him a crappy card and there he was, giving that one mile everything he had. His picture is off to the left. At the finish line I began to see many special needs kids coming down the home stretch. Each one in their own way pushing hard at the finish. There were only a few spectators but the cheering was infectious. I was right there with them clapping and yelling as one after another they came across the finish line. I had tears on my cheeks and didn't care. Today was a good day. An unexpected day. A day I wish we could all experience. Perspective....it's a good thing.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Ghost Runner
The weather was perfect for racing, something you never take for granted especially in February. Over two thousand runners mingling about, stretching, jogging, some slipping in a stride or two while others talk nervously about their race plans - did they train enough? Why does everyone around look so fast? Do these running shorts make my butt look big?
10 minutes until the race starts. Everyone begins to crowd the start area. Few line up in front. That's for the elite, the speedsters, the ones we look at with wonder. As our confident grows we sneak up a bit, feeling that today just might be the day. A quick look over the shoulder and you see hundreds of runners behind you. Hope they stay back there you think - today is my day. Historically after I say this some guy pushing a racing stroller with twin fat kids slips past me.
The count down 10, 9, 8...3,2,1 and the gun sounds. Your world becomes pavement. The only thing that matters is the next 3.1 miles. At some point during the race your body gets pissed at you for what you are putting it through. Your mind takes over and you find your pace. You hear hundreds of feet hitting the road but your focus is 10-15 yards in front of you - that's your world. One more turn and you're home, breathe and push, nothing can stop you, and then you see it. Paradise. Or more commonly know as the finish line. Where it comes from we don't know but we find that little extra in ourselves and speed across the line. Spent. Out of breath. Celebrating.
Today was a day just like that. The difference today was that I didn't run. The race stats will tell a different story however. It will show that I ran the best race of my life. A 6:39 pace - a time I've dreamt about but haven't achieved. Today I was a ghost. At the race in spirit but stuck on the couch watching the clock and thinking about my friends zipping through the course. Seems I have a case of pneumonia and for a short time have traded my running shoes for a few bottles of pills.
Sharon ran my race today. She wore my racing bib and never before has anyone seen #99 run so fast. The official results don't list her. No mention of her name nor the accomplishment of finishing in the top 100 out of 2335 runners. Why train so hard, push so hard and give it up? Because she's unselfish. I guess she was really the ghost runner today. Running an amazing race that no one will ever know about except us.
So exactly how well did I do. I finished 103 of 2335 and 6th in my division while knocking out a 20:35 5K. And I did it in my pajamas. Taking my results and applying them to Sharon, she would have finished 7th in her division and left 2232 runners behind her - including the stroller with the fat twins. Albert was on his game, 16th in his division and 105 overall with a 20:36 time. I think his new shoes are keepers. Susan had a great time, 38th of 509 in her division and 386 overall. Jerry. Worth repeating. Jerry. Finished 26th overall with a 17:12 time and a 5:33 pace.
I missed running with my friends and the post Starbucks chatter. Our next race is in two weeks and I'm out. My focus will be getting ready for the Mercer Island race in March. Sharon - you best get another spanking training plan ready for me because I'll need the best you got. Albert - Sunday runs will be back soon, I look forward to them. We all hit setbacks from time to time. You can be down but not out. You can come back stronger if you have the will. The will and friends that are there to help. I have both. Run....Don't jog.
10 minutes until the race starts. Everyone begins to crowd the start area. Few line up in front. That's for the elite, the speedsters, the ones we look at with wonder. As our confident grows we sneak up a bit, feeling that today just might be the day. A quick look over the shoulder and you see hundreds of runners behind you. Hope they stay back there you think - today is my day. Historically after I say this some guy pushing a racing stroller with twin fat kids slips past me.
The count down 10, 9, 8...3,2,1 and the gun sounds. Your world becomes pavement. The only thing that matters is the next 3.1 miles. At some point during the race your body gets pissed at you for what you are putting it through. Your mind takes over and you find your pace. You hear hundreds of feet hitting the road but your focus is 10-15 yards in front of you - that's your world. One more turn and you're home, breathe and push, nothing can stop you, and then you see it. Paradise. Or more commonly know as the finish line. Where it comes from we don't know but we find that little extra in ourselves and speed across the line. Spent. Out of breath. Celebrating.
Today was a day just like that. The difference today was that I didn't run. The race stats will tell a different story however. It will show that I ran the best race of my life. A 6:39 pace - a time I've dreamt about but haven't achieved. Today I was a ghost. At the race in spirit but stuck on the couch watching the clock and thinking about my friends zipping through the course. Seems I have a case of pneumonia and for a short time have traded my running shoes for a few bottles of pills.
Sharon ran my race today. She wore my racing bib and never before has anyone seen #99 run so fast. The official results don't list her. No mention of her name nor the accomplishment of finishing in the top 100 out of 2335 runners. Why train so hard, push so hard and give it up? Because she's unselfish. I guess she was really the ghost runner today. Running an amazing race that no one will ever know about except us.
So exactly how well did I do. I finished 103 of 2335 and 6th in my division while knocking out a 20:35 5K. And I did it in my pajamas. Taking my results and applying them to Sharon, she would have finished 7th in her division and left 2232 runners behind her - including the stroller with the fat twins. Albert was on his game, 16th in his division and 105 overall with a 20:36 time. I think his new shoes are keepers. Susan had a great time, 38th of 509 in her division and 386 overall. Jerry. Worth repeating. Jerry. Finished 26th overall with a 17:12 time and a 5:33 pace.
I missed running with my friends and the post Starbucks chatter. Our next race is in two weeks and I'm out. My focus will be getting ready for the Mercer Island race in March. Sharon - you best get another spanking training plan ready for me because I'll need the best you got. Albert - Sunday runs will be back soon, I look forward to them. We all hit setbacks from time to time. You can be down but not out. You can come back stronger if you have the will. The will and friends that are there to help. I have both. Run....Don't jog.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
New Year...New Opportunities!
I won't get all sentimental about ringing in the new year, making resolutions, and all that. Will this year be a better year for you? Who knows. That's up to you and you alone. If you've spent 2009 complaining about your weight, lack of time to read, the saddle bags on your butt, too much snacking, stating one to many times that this is the "last" pack of smokes you're going to buy, than maybe you should. Between you and me don't waste your time making a list of a bunch of crap that you're not going to do anyway. Pick one thing - just one, and do it. Then pick another. Chip away my friends. Personally I decided that this year won't be another year of the same old thing. Vague statement? Maybe. Maybe you should keep an eye on me this year...
For the second year in a row I decided to run the Resolution Run 5k. It's such a great way to start the year. This race features the optional polar bear dive into Lake Washington. Last year I thought only idiots would seek out the sun baked 41 degree waters. This year in keeping with my resolution, I decided to get up close and personal with Lake Washington. I hadn't shared this brainstorm with my friends - thought I'd surprise them. It was also a statement to myself - if you're going to stray from the same old thing than why not do so on the first day of the year.
It turned out that Jerry and Susan also signed up for the dip. The stay dry team was made up of Sharon, Albert, and Rita. Rita hasn't ran with us for some time and it was good to see her back with the three stooges. Rain and wind made our arrival very cold. After packet pickup we headed to the car to stay warm until we had to get out and warm up. It was a quick warm up with the usual stop in the bushes for the pre-race pee. Rita not being as comfortable with nature waited in line with the proper folk for the Honey Bucket. We're low on patience and a good bush is hard to beat.
Once we got to the start area we pretty much split up. Etiquette is to line up according to your pace. Sharon, Albert, and Jerry up front and Susan towards the back - she had Cosmo and it's best to get toward the back if you're running with a pet. I'm not sure why I worded it that way...a pet. It's not like people are out there running with cats, sheep, and the like. Anyway, the course has an out and back flavor to it so I knew I'd see the speedsters at some point. Sure enough there they were, cruising with the front of the pack, and once again looking like it's easy. I know it's not and they are pushing hard, very hard. It's just that they never seem to have that twisted contorted look on their face that every picture seems to capture with me. I used to blame it on gas...maybe a side ache. Truth is that's how I run. I'm not half bad to look at standing still. Except for the gas...
The race was fairly uneventful. Lots of roots, torn asphalt, and huge puddles but that's about it. It had been four months since a 5k but I managed each mile in the 7:XX range...the higher end of that range but it felt good to try some speed again. When I saw pavement ahead I knew I was only minutes from "the dip". I was a little nervous about going in. If it's too cold and I'm breathing hard from running will my heart stop? Will it be so cold that I'll never recover from the shrinkage? Shouldn't I wear a life vest? By the time I finished questioning myself there it was just 50 yards in front of me - Lake Washington.
Crowds are yelling and excitement took over and next thing I know I'm in the water. I fully submerge so there's no question of whether or not I actually did it right. Waterlogged I run up the ramp, around the corner and towards the finish line. I feel great - powerful - I did it! I see Sharon smiling and yelling from the side and around the corner comes Albert. Wet hugs all around. It was great and friends made it better.
In short order Rita was there with a big smile for a race well ran. Susan came up with Cosmo - both waterlogged - apparently Cosmo didn't want to go in the water and stopped short of going in. He finally made the right choice. After a quick change of clothes (I won't go in to the detail of 40 men trying to change in a 20x20 tent but let's just say that a little more room would have resulted in a lot less accidental contact) we were off to Starbucks. I enjoy the post party as much as the race itself. It reminds me how valuable good friends are. They don't judge, they support. They push me, and help me. I know that where ever I am in a race, I'm never alone.
Metrics. Michael - 24:29 7:54 pace. 10 of 50 in my division. 136 of 931 overall. Sharon - 21:03 6:48 pace. 3 of 98 in her division. 27th overall. Women - top 5. Albert - 20:52 6:44 pace. 7 of 105 in his division. 39th overall. Rita - 27:57 9:01 pace. 18 of 124 in her division. 296th overall. Jerry - 18:19 5:55 pace. 11 of 462 in his division. 11th overall. Susan - 29:42 9:35 pace. Division unknown. 367th overall. Cosmo - ran barefoot, never complained about the leash, stopped and took a crap shortly after the race started. Better him than me....Have a great 2010. Run...don't jog.
For the second year in a row I decided to run the Resolution Run 5k. It's such a great way to start the year. This race features the optional polar bear dive into Lake Washington. Last year I thought only idiots would seek out the sun baked 41 degree waters. This year in keeping with my resolution, I decided to get up close and personal with Lake Washington. I hadn't shared this brainstorm with my friends - thought I'd surprise them. It was also a statement to myself - if you're going to stray from the same old thing than why not do so on the first day of the year.
It turned out that Jerry and Susan also signed up for the dip. The stay dry team was made up of Sharon, Albert, and Rita. Rita hasn't ran with us for some time and it was good to see her back with the three stooges. Rain and wind made our arrival very cold. After packet pickup we headed to the car to stay warm until we had to get out and warm up. It was a quick warm up with the usual stop in the bushes for the pre-race pee. Rita not being as comfortable with nature waited in line with the proper folk for the Honey Bucket. We're low on patience and a good bush is hard to beat.
Once we got to the start area we pretty much split up. Etiquette is to line up according to your pace. Sharon, Albert, and Jerry up front and Susan towards the back - she had Cosmo and it's best to get toward the back if you're running with a pet. I'm not sure why I worded it that way...a pet. It's not like people are out there running with cats, sheep, and the like. Anyway, the course has an out and back flavor to it so I knew I'd see the speedsters at some point. Sure enough there they were, cruising with the front of the pack, and once again looking like it's easy. I know it's not and they are pushing hard, very hard. It's just that they never seem to have that twisted contorted look on their face that every picture seems to capture with me. I used to blame it on gas...maybe a side ache. Truth is that's how I run. I'm not half bad to look at standing still. Except for the gas...
The race was fairly uneventful. Lots of roots, torn asphalt, and huge puddles but that's about it. It had been four months since a 5k but I managed each mile in the 7:XX range...the higher end of that range but it felt good to try some speed again. When I saw pavement ahead I knew I was only minutes from "the dip". I was a little nervous about going in. If it's too cold and I'm breathing hard from running will my heart stop? Will it be so cold that I'll never recover from the shrinkage? Shouldn't I wear a life vest? By the time I finished questioning myself there it was just 50 yards in front of me - Lake Washington.
Crowds are yelling and excitement took over and next thing I know I'm in the water. I fully submerge so there's no question of whether or not I actually did it right. Waterlogged I run up the ramp, around the corner and towards the finish line. I feel great - powerful - I did it! I see Sharon smiling and yelling from the side and around the corner comes Albert. Wet hugs all around. It was great and friends made it better.
In short order Rita was there with a big smile for a race well ran. Susan came up with Cosmo - both waterlogged - apparently Cosmo didn't want to go in the water and stopped short of going in. He finally made the right choice. After a quick change of clothes (I won't go in to the detail of 40 men trying to change in a 20x20 tent but let's just say that a little more room would have resulted in a lot less accidental contact) we were off to Starbucks. I enjoy the post party as much as the race itself. It reminds me how valuable good friends are. They don't judge, they support. They push me, and help me. I know that where ever I am in a race, I'm never alone.
Metrics. Michael - 24:29 7:54 pace. 10 of 50 in my division. 136 of 931 overall. Sharon - 21:03 6:48 pace. 3 of 98 in her division. 27th overall. Women - top 5. Albert - 20:52 6:44 pace. 7 of 105 in his division. 39th overall. Rita - 27:57 9:01 pace. 18 of 124 in her division. 296th overall. Jerry - 18:19 5:55 pace. 11 of 462 in his division. 11th overall. Susan - 29:42 9:35 pace. Division unknown. 367th overall. Cosmo - ran barefoot, never complained about the leash, stopped and took a crap shortly after the race started. Better him than me....Have a great 2010. Run...don't jog.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
