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.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
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.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
The Spectator
Today I watched. Nothing like hiding behind the bushes or anything. Kirkland's annual 12K's of Christmas run was today and I've been nursing a bit of a hip annoyance and as such I haven't logged much on the running trail the past two weeks. Sometimes the smarter decision is to not do something - as was the case today. No running for me. Don't shed any tears, notify the papers, or call the pansy brigade - it's a minor setback and with age (and advice from my friends) wisdom ruled.
It had been a while since the three of us packed in the car and made our way to an exciting but unforgiving road race. The anticipation always brings nerves to the surface and the chatter on the drive is littered with it - that's part of the fun. Who hurts where...why the race will probably be more than a run than a race...do I have a cold or is it simply time to blow my nose. It's crazier than it sounds but it's part of the ritual. I wouldn't trade it. Then there is the race itself. Once the gun sounds it's just you and the road. Hilly or flat, cold or hot, wet, windy - maybe everything mixed in together. It is what it will be. You know you will hurt. When is the only question. Mile one...three...the thing is that it will come. Your ability or lack there of to push it aside is the difference.
Sharon and Albert did their pre-race warm up and I took on my temporary role of caddy/butler, holding water and coats while they prepped. It can be lonely walking around while the gang is tuning up - I kept busy looking for the freebies that every race has - coffee, fruit, "special" water, and the like. As race time closed in Sharon and Albert came for their pre-race hug and handshake. That Albert, never tires of a good hug.
They took off and I figured I had 21-23 minutes to burn. Found a massage table and offered myself up to the young ladies and their interesting devices. I received a good 10 minute hammering of my hip and leg and felt better for it. Did I mention it was free? I grabbed a free water to celebrate and made my way to the finish. Before I knew it I saw Sharon coming down the stretch - flying. Albert was just seconds behind her. Smokin....over 600 runners and only a handful had finished.
Stats. Sharon finished 1st in her age division (79 runners). 5th in the woman's division. 17th overall - out of 628. Clocked 21:21. Albert finished 5th in his division (49 runners). 22nd overall. Clocked 21:43. These guys can run and they prove it every time they go out. We hit Starbucks for our post race "cool down" and recap. All too soon it was time to head out and begin the preparation for the next race. Don't have the Binky's ready just yet. I'll be there ready to run with my friends, regardless of how long they have to wait at the finish line for me :)
It had been a while since the three of us packed in the car and made our way to an exciting but unforgiving road race. The anticipation always brings nerves to the surface and the chatter on the drive is littered with it - that's part of the fun. Who hurts where...why the race will probably be more than a run than a race...do I have a cold or is it simply time to blow my nose. It's crazier than it sounds but it's part of the ritual. I wouldn't trade it. Then there is the race itself. Once the gun sounds it's just you and the road. Hilly or flat, cold or hot, wet, windy - maybe everything mixed in together. It is what it will be. You know you will hurt. When is the only question. Mile one...three...the thing is that it will come. Your ability or lack there of to push it aside is the difference.
Sharon and Albert did their pre-race warm up and I took on my temporary role of caddy/butler, holding water and coats while they prepped. It can be lonely walking around while the gang is tuning up - I kept busy looking for the freebies that every race has - coffee, fruit, "special" water, and the like. As race time closed in Sharon and Albert came for their pre-race hug and handshake. That Albert, never tires of a good hug.
They took off and I figured I had 21-23 minutes to burn. Found a massage table and offered myself up to the young ladies and their interesting devices. I received a good 10 minute hammering of my hip and leg and felt better for it. Did I mention it was free? I grabbed a free water to celebrate and made my way to the finish. Before I knew it I saw Sharon coming down the stretch - flying. Albert was just seconds behind her. Smokin....over 600 runners and only a handful had finished.
Stats. Sharon finished 1st in her age division (79 runners). 5th in the woman's division. 17th overall - out of 628. Clocked 21:21. Albert finished 5th in his division (49 runners). 22nd overall. Clocked 21:43. These guys can run and they prove it every time they go out. We hit Starbucks for our post race "cool down" and recap. All too soon it was time to head out and begin the preparation for the next race. Don't have the Binky's ready just yet. I'll be there ready to run with my friends, regardless of how long they have to wait at the finish line for me :)
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Half Marathon or Bust
I did it. Months ago I committed to running a half marathon. Why? Was I frickin crazy? Is it time to send another urine sample to the....oops, that's another story. Let's say I was going through an experimental stage. Remember the Beatles? "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds". "Norwegian Wood". "Come Together". And what was the story behind lovely Rita the meter maid? Let's just say that we all have our own ways of experimenting. "Hard Days Night" by the way, great song - interesting movie.
After running 23 5k's and increasing my long runs it was time to test my ability to run far. Three years ago that would have meant 1 mile. Now it means 13.1 miles. I have been fortunate in my running career to have friends who have helped mold me from a gut giggling forward leaning tense shoulders scrambler into the runner you see today. What you don't like you can take up with them. Sharon Bertolli and Albert Sanchez, phone numbers and addresses to follow...
Once again I sought their advice and they delivered. My role was to execute on the training plan, continue to eat right, and worth repeating - execute on the training plan. The plan was for 14 weeks. It included runs from 8 to 12 miles, mile sprints, hills that sucked all the air from my lungs and more than once gave me that wonderful warm feeling you get when you throw up in your mouth, tempo runs that pissed me off because they were so hard, and the occasional easy run that is timed at just the right place in the plan to let you recover and believe you can complete the training. Sounds fun doesn't it?
The day before the half I must have looked over my training diary, er log, a dozen times. Reviewing the tough workouts and long runs, telling myself that I was ready. Sleep was hit and miss as nerves crept in and out. On the button the next morning at 5:30 Albert pulled up and we were off. Albert you see was running as well. Not running to race or log a great time. He was running to run next to me for 13.1 miles to help me hit my goal and finish my first half. What does a guy say to that? Wow...thank you...I owe you...you should have your urine tested too...
Once we got downtown we hit the Seattle Center to stay warm and frequent the restrooms. Race nerves make you pee at least a hundred times and given the choice between a warm john and a cold honey bucket, well it's no contest. We got outside after the half marathon walk started and bam, the line from the start was already blocks long. We stepped in and there was zero room to move. Probably 5000 runners in front of us. The horn sounded and we were off. Actually for about 2 minutes we didn't even move. It took us nearly 6 minutes to get to the start line.
Finally we hit the start line and were off. Not exactly a fast pace. It was so crowded we jogged most of the first couple miles - that doesn't help when one is trying to achieve a certain time (yes yes, I had a goal - go figure). I'll save the metrics for the end for those of you who don't care or are starting to nod off. The first 5-6 miles were pretty good. Albert was right there reminding me to stay relaxed and not worry about the pace, just to keep running.
Mile 7 was coming. I had heard about "the hill" that wipes people out. We ran it easy. That's due to the hill puking training I had been doing for the past five weeks. My friends knew what they were talking about. I might not have always liked my friends during those training runs but I sure loved them when I crested the hill. It was the first time I was passing people on a hill!! Renewed confidence hit me and we sailed. Pain and fatigue however soon came and welcomed me like an old friend. Albert told me the pain would pass, "just let it go and keep running". Huh? Did he know how much I was hurting? He was right, it went away. They say when you're in a coma you don't feel pain, I'll vouch for that.
Miles 8-11 were tough. Uphill...downhill...uphill...flat...uphill. EVERY time we hit a hill Albert told me it was the last one. Funny guy. Then it happened. Right around 12.5 miles I felt like I was fading. It was about the same time we ran past a guy sprawled out on the street with medics around him. Albert's comment was that the guy was half my age. Motivating or scary - you decide. Metric check - My heart rate monitor showed miles 9-13 my heart rate ran from 97-102% of max...Anyway, I was fading. Had nothing. Albert looked at me and all I could say was I think I'm done. Bless him. He did what any good friend would do. He began to let me have it. Get moving...push it...you trained for this...no giving up...you're almost there...run....there's the stadium just ahead. I kept moving (later realizing our pace was 8:00 for those last 3 miles). The last minute came the hardest push and we blitzed a 6:35 sprint for the final. Seeing the finish line was huge and the feeling I had crossing it is hard to describe. All the training, the hard work, everything lead to that moment. Albert - I can't thank you enough for all you did, for the support mile after mile. For running back to the Gu station when I ran past it and then catching up and giving me the boost.
Receiving the finishers medal meant more to me than just finishing a race. It had been a journey. A journey of ups and downs. Of celebrations and self doubt. In the end it was a message to myself that the only thing that can limit me is me. And I'm not ready to be limited to anything and like the Beatles said, anything is possible "With a little help from my friends"....
Metrics: Finished in 1:56:24. The first three miles averaged a pace of 10:34, miles 4-13 averaged 8:26, and 11-13 averaged 8:02. I finished in the top 25% overall yet only in the top 35% of the old guys division (50-54). Will I do another half? Hard to say, I'll let you know when I'm finally out of my coma...
After running 23 5k's and increasing my long runs it was time to test my ability to run far. Three years ago that would have meant 1 mile. Now it means 13.1 miles. I have been fortunate in my running career to have friends who have helped mold me from a gut giggling forward leaning tense shoulders scrambler into the runner you see today. What you don't like you can take up with them. Sharon Bertolli and Albert Sanchez, phone numbers and addresses to follow...
Once again I sought their advice and they delivered. My role was to execute on the training plan, continue to eat right, and worth repeating - execute on the training plan. The plan was for 14 weeks. It included runs from 8 to 12 miles, mile sprints, hills that sucked all the air from my lungs and more than once gave me that wonderful warm feeling you get when you throw up in your mouth, tempo runs that pissed me off because they were so hard, and the occasional easy run that is timed at just the right place in the plan to let you recover and believe you can complete the training. Sounds fun doesn't it?
The day before the half I must have looked over my training diary, er log, a dozen times. Reviewing the tough workouts and long runs, telling myself that I was ready. Sleep was hit and miss as nerves crept in and out. On the button the next morning at 5:30 Albert pulled up and we were off. Albert you see was running as well. Not running to race or log a great time. He was running to run next to me for 13.1 miles to help me hit my goal and finish my first half. What does a guy say to that? Wow...thank you...I owe you...you should have your urine tested too...
Once we got downtown we hit the Seattle Center to stay warm and frequent the restrooms. Race nerves make you pee at least a hundred times and given the choice between a warm john and a cold honey bucket, well it's no contest. We got outside after the half marathon walk started and bam, the line from the start was already blocks long. We stepped in and there was zero room to move. Probably 5000 runners in front of us. The horn sounded and we were off. Actually for about 2 minutes we didn't even move. It took us nearly 6 minutes to get to the start line.
Finally we hit the start line and were off. Not exactly a fast pace. It was so crowded we jogged most of the first couple miles - that doesn't help when one is trying to achieve a certain time (yes yes, I had a goal - go figure). I'll save the metrics for the end for those of you who don't care or are starting to nod off. The first 5-6 miles were pretty good. Albert was right there reminding me to stay relaxed and not worry about the pace, just to keep running.
Mile 7 was coming. I had heard about "the hill" that wipes people out. We ran it easy. That's due to the hill puking training I had been doing for the past five weeks. My friends knew what they were talking about. I might not have always liked my friends during those training runs but I sure loved them when I crested the hill. It was the first time I was passing people on a hill!! Renewed confidence hit me and we sailed. Pain and fatigue however soon came and welcomed me like an old friend. Albert told me the pain would pass, "just let it go and keep running". Huh? Did he know how much I was hurting? He was right, it went away. They say when you're in a coma you don't feel pain, I'll vouch for that.
Miles 8-11 were tough. Uphill...downhill...uphill...flat...uphill. EVERY time we hit a hill Albert told me it was the last one. Funny guy. Then it happened. Right around 12.5 miles I felt like I was fading. It was about the same time we ran past a guy sprawled out on the street with medics around him. Albert's comment was that the guy was half my age. Motivating or scary - you decide. Metric check - My heart rate monitor showed miles 9-13 my heart rate ran from 97-102% of max...Anyway, I was fading. Had nothing. Albert looked at me and all I could say was I think I'm done. Bless him. He did what any good friend would do. He began to let me have it. Get moving...push it...you trained for this...no giving up...you're almost there...run....there's the stadium just ahead. I kept moving (later realizing our pace was 8:00 for those last 3 miles). The last minute came the hardest push and we blitzed a 6:35 sprint for the final. Seeing the finish line was huge and the feeling I had crossing it is hard to describe. All the training, the hard work, everything lead to that moment. Albert - I can't thank you enough for all you did, for the support mile after mile. For running back to the Gu station when I ran past it and then catching up and giving me the boost.
Receiving the finishers medal meant more to me than just finishing a race. It had been a journey. A journey of ups and downs. Of celebrations and self doubt. In the end it was a message to myself that the only thing that can limit me is me. And I'm not ready to be limited to anything and like the Beatles said, anything is possible "With a little help from my friends"....
Metrics: Finished in 1:56:24. The first three miles averaged a pace of 10:34, miles 4-13 averaged 8:26, and 11-13 averaged 8:02. I finished in the top 25% overall yet only in the top 35% of the old guys division (50-54). Will I do another half? Hard to say, I'll let you know when I'm finally out of my coma...
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Road Trip
Our first road trip! Cool that it was in Portland, my hometown. It's been over 20 years since I lived in the "City of Roses". Much has changed since then. From a sports perspective, I've transitioned from a soccer player to a bodybuilder to a runner during that time. I've had my fair share of failures and victories in each of those venues. I learned from both - often more from the failures than the wins. Luck has also been my sidekick. In all of my endeavors I have been lucky enough to have people help me succeed. Ray played soccer in England for Manchester United, Tom a long time bodybuilder, and today I have Albert and Sharon giving their time and expertise to help forge me into the best runner I can be. All of them gave without asking for anything in return. I guess they did all ask for one thing, the same thing - for me to give the best I was possible of giving. With their help it has always been more than I thought I was capable of giving. To each of them I say thank you for never giving up on me.
The trip was all about Albert running the Portland Marathon. This was planned to be his Boston qualifier. An injury sucker punched him late in his training. While it never seems fair, it's always a risk when you push yourself to a new level. Albert is always looking to improve, to peel off another second - he doesn't give up. I admire that. He rebounded and was able to race. His brother Jerry and Susan (Jerry's girlfriend) were also running the marathon. Sharon was sidelined with injury but came to provide support and race day coaching. I was gearing up for the Portland 5 Miler.
The drive down was a blast. Our trail was marked with stops at Starbucks, Subway, and frequent potty breaks - we are all getting older after all. We would have shaved hours (maybe minutes) off the drive if we could have simply all gone at the same time....It was like trips when I was young except none of us expected the other to pull the car over and pee along the side of the road (yes mom, I know you remember those stops).
The Marathon Expo was pretty cool. Lots of vendors selling almost anything related to running that you can imagine. Loved the free samples....I bought Superfeet insoles (cause all the fast cool hip runners use them - that's what the salesmen told me....) and a very firm roller to painfully work out the kinks in my muscles after a hard run. I actually paid money for that experience - it does hurt but aids in ones recovery.
The Portland Marathon brings in over $20 million to the local economy - with over 12,000 runners and 2-3 times that in spectators, you can easily see how. Our first bump in the trip was that one of our reservations went MIA. Of course there was no rooms available - in that hotel or any others close to the race. So we all stayed in one room, not a large room but big enough that all five of us didn't have to sleep in the same bed. I kept thinking, geez, I should have remembered to pack pajamas....We dined at the original Spaghetti Factory and the place was packed. The food was good and the laughter took care of some of the pre-race nerves.
Sunday morning came fast and as we prepared for our races, the potential problem associated with 5 adults and one tiny bathroom never materialized. I admit it was difficult to take your time if you know what I mean....We walked about a half mile from the hotel to the starting area. The weather was cool, crisp, with clear skies - perfect! Keep in mind that I mainly run 5K's. A large race is 1500. The starting area had thousands, close to 10,000. It was a zoo...organized but a zoo. The sea of marathoners was amazing. Blocks and blocks of runners. Confident, nervous, and likely many wondering what in the world they had got themselves into. The gun sounded and off they went. Each would soon have their own story to share.
The gun also meant that I had 45 minutes until my race started. The 5 Miler was a new distance to race. I knew I could cover the distance but the goal time was another thing. I received my pre-race reprimand from Sharon for even setting a goal. Sorry but I have too. I can't explain why. It's what I do, I always have...always will. In reality she is right of course. The first time you run any distance, the smart move is to just run. Take that result and build a plan for the next one. Humm, maybe I'm learning afterall....Sometimes I just learn S L O W L Y....I pushed up towards the front of the starting line and looked back at the 900+....start slow....pace yourself....enjoy the race...quotes from Sharon. They float around in my head with other thoughts....hope the hills are easy....that guy looks fast....it's only 5 miles....I should have peed one more time....
The gun sounded and I started slow. Maybe too slow I thought as a lot of runners flew by me. Lot's of runners....I stayed the course and kept to my planned pace. Midway through the mile 3 hill I was passing runners. Lot's of runners....oh this is fun I thought to myself. Look at me, cruising by you and you and you and....you get the point. Feeling cocky and strong I am hearing cheer after cheer from the volunteers as I run by. Sweet, I love Portland! I even heard "He's so cute". Did I mention that I love Portland? Then reality stepped in. A couple yards behind me was a husband/wife team and he was pushing a stroller. So "cute" was the kid in the stroller and the cheers were for the family running together. Now they are right next to me and the kid has a little race jersey on. Ok, he was a little cute and now slightly ahead of me. The final mile marker was just ahead and it's that now or never time that comes in every race. Time to push the final mile with everything you have left, even if you don't know what that is. It's a little scary but it's also what defines that race. My final mile was 7:00 and I passed a few more runners on my way to the finish line. I finished out of gas, out of air, and my trusty legs were much like the spaghetti I ate the night before. My goal was 39:00 and I came in at 38:53. 12th in my age group and 102th out of 912.
Jerry was the first of our group to finish. Freakin fast. Over 9,000 runners and he was 25th....25th. His average pace per mile was 6:16. He'll be at Boston next year. He seems built for running. Susan finished in just over 4 hours and tossed us the rappers gesture (the good one) and flashed a huge smile as she rounded the final corner. While some runners were struggling, she seemed to glide through the end of the race.
Albert. This race has been in his plans for some time. It was to be his qualifying race for Boston. The sucker punch injury I mentioned was at the worse possible time - about 6 weeks before the marathon. His training had to take a sharp u-turn. No running. He was on the bike, rowing machine and running in the pool. This training isn't fun but he pushed through it. On top of that he had to mentally deal with his goal possibly slipping away. I know it was hard for him. But I have to tell you, he has the ability to drive beyond the pain, beyond the impossible. He worked hard and found a way to make it happen. Marathon day also brought concerns of the injury creeping back in during the long race. Having run with him and knowing what he put in to his training for this race made it that much more special to see him on the homestretch. It's hard to explain the feeling but you somehow are running the final stretch with him. Nervous for the finish and proud of the accomplishment. He had some tough moments during the race but his determination won out. He finished in 3:37 and set a PR. Maybe not what he was looking for but in my eyes, it was a world record. Way to go Albert!
The trip was a blast and I got to know Jerry and Susan more than I had before. They are good people and I look forward to getting to know them better. Albert and Sharon, what can I say? We laughed down and back. It was a good time with good friends and I'm glad I went. We decided that we'd take a road trip once a year. Me, I'm all in. Time to check the map and see where the slow people live...
Next stop is the Seattle Half Marathon (November 29th). Albert is running with me and that takes some of the nervousness out of it. I've already set a time goal and Sharon slipped me the stink eye. Her training plan is building my distance and with 6 weeks to go and I'm feeling good. Need to push my mileage and continue to hit my training goals but so far so good. I wish I had something witty to say to close this blog out but I'm empty. I also have completely orange fingers from the Cheetos I've been snacking on...
The trip was all about Albert running the Portland Marathon. This was planned to be his Boston qualifier. An injury sucker punched him late in his training. While it never seems fair, it's always a risk when you push yourself to a new level. Albert is always looking to improve, to peel off another second - he doesn't give up. I admire that. He rebounded and was able to race. His brother Jerry and Susan (Jerry's girlfriend) were also running the marathon. Sharon was sidelined with injury but came to provide support and race day coaching. I was gearing up for the Portland 5 Miler.
The drive down was a blast. Our trail was marked with stops at Starbucks, Subway, and frequent potty breaks - we are all getting older after all. We would have shaved hours (maybe minutes) off the drive if we could have simply all gone at the same time....It was like trips when I was young except none of us expected the other to pull the car over and pee along the side of the road (yes mom, I know you remember those stops).
The Marathon Expo was pretty cool. Lots of vendors selling almost anything related to running that you can imagine. Loved the free samples....I bought Superfeet insoles (cause all the fast cool hip runners use them - that's what the salesmen told me....) and a very firm roller to painfully work out the kinks in my muscles after a hard run. I actually paid money for that experience - it does hurt but aids in ones recovery.
The Portland Marathon brings in over $20 million to the local economy - with over 12,000 runners and 2-3 times that in spectators, you can easily see how. Our first bump in the trip was that one of our reservations went MIA. Of course there was no rooms available - in that hotel or any others close to the race. So we all stayed in one room, not a large room but big enough that all five of us didn't have to sleep in the same bed. I kept thinking, geez, I should have remembered to pack pajamas....We dined at the original Spaghetti Factory and the place was packed. The food was good and the laughter took care of some of the pre-race nerves.
Sunday morning came fast and as we prepared for our races, the potential problem associated with 5 adults and one tiny bathroom never materialized. I admit it was difficult to take your time if you know what I mean....We walked about a half mile from the hotel to the starting area. The weather was cool, crisp, with clear skies - perfect! Keep in mind that I mainly run 5K's. A large race is 1500. The starting area had thousands, close to 10,000. It was a zoo...organized but a zoo. The sea of marathoners was amazing. Blocks and blocks of runners. Confident, nervous, and likely many wondering what in the world they had got themselves into. The gun sounded and off they went. Each would soon have their own story to share.
The gun also meant that I had 45 minutes until my race started. The 5 Miler was a new distance to race. I knew I could cover the distance but the goal time was another thing. I received my pre-race reprimand from Sharon for even setting a goal. Sorry but I have too. I can't explain why. It's what I do, I always have...always will. In reality she is right of course. The first time you run any distance, the smart move is to just run. Take that result and build a plan for the next one. Humm, maybe I'm learning afterall....Sometimes I just learn S L O W L Y....I pushed up towards the front of the starting line and looked back at the 900+....start slow....pace yourself....enjoy the race...quotes from Sharon. They float around in my head with other thoughts....hope the hills are easy....that guy looks fast....it's only 5 miles....I should have peed one more time....
The gun sounded and I started slow. Maybe too slow I thought as a lot of runners flew by me. Lot's of runners....I stayed the course and kept to my planned pace. Midway through the mile 3 hill I was passing runners. Lot's of runners....oh this is fun I thought to myself. Look at me, cruising by you and you and you and....you get the point. Feeling cocky and strong I am hearing cheer after cheer from the volunteers as I run by. Sweet, I love Portland! I even heard "He's so cute". Did I mention that I love Portland? Then reality stepped in. A couple yards behind me was a husband/wife team and he was pushing a stroller. So "cute" was the kid in the stroller and the cheers were for the family running together. Now they are right next to me and the kid has a little race jersey on. Ok, he was a little cute and now slightly ahead of me. The final mile marker was just ahead and it's that now or never time that comes in every race. Time to push the final mile with everything you have left, even if you don't know what that is. It's a little scary but it's also what defines that race. My final mile was 7:00 and I passed a few more runners on my way to the finish line. I finished out of gas, out of air, and my trusty legs were much like the spaghetti I ate the night before. My goal was 39:00 and I came in at 38:53. 12th in my age group and 102th out of 912.
Jerry was the first of our group to finish. Freakin fast. Over 9,000 runners and he was 25th....25th. His average pace per mile was 6:16. He'll be at Boston next year. He seems built for running. Susan finished in just over 4 hours and tossed us the rappers gesture (the good one) and flashed a huge smile as she rounded the final corner. While some runners were struggling, she seemed to glide through the end of the race.
Albert. This race has been in his plans for some time. It was to be his qualifying race for Boston. The sucker punch injury I mentioned was at the worse possible time - about 6 weeks before the marathon. His training had to take a sharp u-turn. No running. He was on the bike, rowing machine and running in the pool. This training isn't fun but he pushed through it. On top of that he had to mentally deal with his goal possibly slipping away. I know it was hard for him. But I have to tell you, he has the ability to drive beyond the pain, beyond the impossible. He worked hard and found a way to make it happen. Marathon day also brought concerns of the injury creeping back in during the long race. Having run with him and knowing what he put in to his training for this race made it that much more special to see him on the homestretch. It's hard to explain the feeling but you somehow are running the final stretch with him. Nervous for the finish and proud of the accomplishment. He had some tough moments during the race but his determination won out. He finished in 3:37 and set a PR. Maybe not what he was looking for but in my eyes, it was a world record. Way to go Albert!
The trip was a blast and I got to know Jerry and Susan more than I had before. They are good people and I look forward to getting to know them better. Albert and Sharon, what can I say? We laughed down and back. It was a good time with good friends and I'm glad I went. We decided that we'd take a road trip once a year. Me, I'm all in. Time to check the map and see where the slow people live...
Next stop is the Seattle Half Marathon (November 29th). Albert is running with me and that takes some of the nervousness out of it. I've already set a time goal and Sharon slipped me the stink eye. Her training plan is building my distance and with 6 weeks to go and I'm feeling good. Need to push my mileage and continue to hit my training goals but so far so good. I wish I had something witty to say to close this blog out but I'm empty. I also have completely orange fingers from the Cheetos I've been snacking on...
Sunday, September 20, 2009
I had fun...
Really? A race was fun? Different is a better word. I ran my first 10k yesterday. Woke up at 5:00am to rain. I sat out on the porch and watched it fall - I love doing that. The sound of rain hitting the trees and plants is peaceful, relaxing. I was thinking about my first 10k and maybe a tad nervous. I admit if Albert wasn't coming to pick me up, I might have passed. But we are coming into Fall and the days of warm dry races are coming to an end. Besides, as long as I crossed the finish line I will have set a personal record - that is always a good day.
The race was in Tacoma - Point Defiance. It was a mixed bag with a 5k, 10k, and bike event. The weather opened up and the sun came out. Speedster Jerry met up with us. We were without Sharon as she was teaching a cycle class at the "Y". Helping others get in shape is one of her things. Time for a commercial spot. Sharon is a personal trainer and is fantastic. Speaking for myself, I am a faster, better runner because of her. She has also improved my eating habits, helped me recovery from injury and built my confidence through detailed training plans and tough love (think Jillian from Biggest Loser). She doesn't charge much ($25 an hour) and is worth 2-3 times that. Contact me if you're interested, I may get a cut...
The plan was for me to run a 8:00 mile pace, slicing down the last couple of miles if I felt good. The start was tough. Trail...tree roots...skinny path. I got stuck behind a guy with a stroller on the skinny path and there was no way around. My Garmin reflected a 9:40 pace. Gads....Once it opened up I shot past him. Then sweet mother of pearl the course went uphill. Uphill for nearly a mile. In fact the course was very hilly. Albert stated that it was the hardest 10k course he's ran. Speaking of Albert, I lost track of him shortly after the starting gun. Saw him at one point (there were a few out and backs built in to the course). I'm waving away and he's dead on focused on what's in front of him. Silly me. Albert finished 3rd in his division and 11th overall! Not bad for a guy coming back from an injury.
I ended up running with three others. They were all running my pace so we were a little bunched up. The two guys (spitters by the way) ran to the left and the gal on the right. If you spit to the right why do you run left? Fear not, I kept a few yards behind them. I focused on the girl. She only spat once...around mile 4 she pulled away and I followed suit. Who would you follow, spandex, er I mean a girl or a couple spitters?
Soon we were well ahead and a water station was in sight. I grabbed my dixie cup, pinched it (that's how they tell you to do it), poured it in. Downside here was that the water flowed not into my mouth but into my nose (not how they tell you to do it). It is possible for one to drown while running? Then I saw it. I saw mile marker 5 up ahead. Sweet! I was feeling good, had energy left, and only a bit over a mile to go. As I passed mile marker 5 I noticed that it said mile 4. Bummer. I still felt good and "Some time after midnight" started on the iPod so I jacked it up and remembered Sharon saying to try and pick up the last two miles if I felt good. I felt good. I ran the last two miles in 7:39 and 7:25. Came around the corner for the final .2 and hit the steepest hill of my life. I felt like I was barely moving and tried to manage some encouraging words to the gal I'd been running with. I meant well but I think all she heard was heavy breathing - that explains the look I got. I hit the top before her and saw the time clock at 49 something. My goal was under 50 so I sprinted and crossed the finish with mere seconds to spare. Albert was there cheering me on - he'd finished, had a sandwich, changed the oil in his car, you get the picture.
Jerry. Speedster. Explorer. The number one problem with being one of the faster on a course is that if the course isn't marked properly or a volunteer hasn't made it out to their station yet, one could go the wrong way. That's what happened to Jerry and a couple others. The signage wasn't out so they went straight (makes sense) instead of turning. Ended up on the bike race route. I felt for him and the others. Jerry shrugged it off as not that big of a deal. The race organizers were very apologetic and I was impressed with their level of concern.
All in all a good day. My training plan seems to be working and while tired, I felt I ran a good race. Half marathon coming up in November but I think I'll take a pit stop and run the 5 miler in Portland on October 4th. Albert and Jerry are running the marathon and Sharon is thinking about the 5 miler. 5k's....10k's....turning 50....The only barrier is the one you build for yourself. Bust em, don't build em. Run...don't jog.
The race was in Tacoma - Point Defiance. It was a mixed bag with a 5k, 10k, and bike event. The weather opened up and the sun came out. Speedster Jerry met up with us. We were without Sharon as she was teaching a cycle class at the "Y". Helping others get in shape is one of her things. Time for a commercial spot. Sharon is a personal trainer and is fantastic. Speaking for myself, I am a faster, better runner because of her. She has also improved my eating habits, helped me recovery from injury and built my confidence through detailed training plans and tough love (think Jillian from Biggest Loser). She doesn't charge much ($25 an hour) and is worth 2-3 times that. Contact me if you're interested, I may get a cut...
The plan was for me to run a 8:00 mile pace, slicing down the last couple of miles if I felt good. The start was tough. Trail...tree roots...skinny path. I got stuck behind a guy with a stroller on the skinny path and there was no way around. My Garmin reflected a 9:40 pace. Gads....Once it opened up I shot past him. Then sweet mother of pearl the course went uphill. Uphill for nearly a mile. In fact the course was very hilly. Albert stated that it was the hardest 10k course he's ran. Speaking of Albert, I lost track of him shortly after the starting gun. Saw him at one point (there were a few out and backs built in to the course). I'm waving away and he's dead on focused on what's in front of him. Silly me. Albert finished 3rd in his division and 11th overall! Not bad for a guy coming back from an injury.
I ended up running with three others. They were all running my pace so we were a little bunched up. The two guys (spitters by the way) ran to the left and the gal on the right. If you spit to the right why do you run left? Fear not, I kept a few yards behind them. I focused on the girl. She only spat once...around mile 4 she pulled away and I followed suit. Who would you follow, spandex, er I mean a girl or a couple spitters?
Soon we were well ahead and a water station was in sight. I grabbed my dixie cup, pinched it (that's how they tell you to do it), poured it in. Downside here was that the water flowed not into my mouth but into my nose (not how they tell you to do it). It is possible for one to drown while running? Then I saw it. I saw mile marker 5 up ahead. Sweet! I was feeling good, had energy left, and only a bit over a mile to go. As I passed mile marker 5 I noticed that it said mile 4. Bummer. I still felt good and "Some time after midnight" started on the iPod so I jacked it up and remembered Sharon saying to try and pick up the last two miles if I felt good. I felt good. I ran the last two miles in 7:39 and 7:25. Came around the corner for the final .2 and hit the steepest hill of my life. I felt like I was barely moving and tried to manage some encouraging words to the gal I'd been running with. I meant well but I think all she heard was heavy breathing - that explains the look I got. I hit the top before her and saw the time clock at 49 something. My goal was under 50 so I sprinted and crossed the finish with mere seconds to spare. Albert was there cheering me on - he'd finished, had a sandwich, changed the oil in his car, you get the picture.
Jerry. Speedster. Explorer. The number one problem with being one of the faster on a course is that if the course isn't marked properly or a volunteer hasn't made it out to their station yet, one could go the wrong way. That's what happened to Jerry and a couple others. The signage wasn't out so they went straight (makes sense) instead of turning. Ended up on the bike race route. I felt for him and the others. Jerry shrugged it off as not that big of a deal. The race organizers were very apologetic and I was impressed with their level of concern.
All in all a good day. My training plan seems to be working and while tired, I felt I ran a good race. Half marathon coming up in November but I think I'll take a pit stop and run the 5 miler in Portland on October 4th. Albert and Jerry are running the marathon and Sharon is thinking about the 5 miler. 5k's....10k's....turning 50....The only barrier is the one you build for yourself. Bust em, don't build em. Run...don't jog.
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