2009 Hogeye Marathon Race Wrap - April 5th 2009

I have finally decided to post a blog about the marathon. I wanted to wait a while until all the aches and pains were gone, and I had some time to reflect on the entire experience. I think now I am ready to give an objective account of the race. I read a quote from an Olympic runner that really hit home (especially after the race) -- something like --- You are only ready for your next marathon when you have completely forgotten your last. I know this to be pretty accurate now.

From the day I made the decision to finish a marathon I knew I would need to focus and train hard in order to have a successful race. I was competing against the other runners -- but mostly I was competing with myself. I set a goal to finish under 4 hours, and that seemed like a good possibility in Olathe, but Fayetteville is renowned for it's difficulty. Arkansas is a very hilly place, especially at the edge of the Ozarks. I knew it was going to be tough. I thought I knew how tough...

The Night Before

I left for Fayetteville about 2pm after a pasta dinner with my wife and kids at Applebees. I wanted my last large carb load to be longer than 12 hours before the gun so I wouldn't be all full and bloated. I stole my daughter's twin mattress (off her bed) and having removed the third seat, put it in the back of the Suburban. There was plenty of room to spare. I decided that since I was going to be by myself, renting a hotel room seemed like a waste, especially since I love camping. I had found a neat RV park 10 minutes from downtown Fayetteville named "Pligrim's Rest" where I could park overnight for 12 bucks! What a deal! I arrived in Fayetteville about 4:30 and went to the Cosmopolitan Hotel and registered for the race. Seventy bucks later, I had my bib (number) and race packet. I walked around the fitness expo for a few minutes and then decided to head to the RV park and get a spot to park before getting something to eat. I found the park, about 15 minutes from town and way out in the country. This was just what I was hoping for, because I can not sleep well in a noisy town...cars, trucks, horns and alarms drive me freaking nuts. I went to the park office, to find that no one was there, but there was a number on the sign on the office door. I called and explained and they said just to drop the money in the drop box and park on the back side. After talking to the nice lady, I decided to go get something to eat first, and break a $20 so I could pay for my spot. After all, I had time to kill and I was starting to get hungry. I headed back to town and found a KFC with a buffet and pigged out mostly on mashed potatoes, gravy, macaroni -- ah who am I kidding... I just pigged out in general. Got my change and went back to Pilgrim's rest. I got back to the park and while writing a note to put with my money in the drop box, the owner/manager pulled up. I told them I was running in the Hogeye marathon and we chatted for a bit and they took my money. Very nice people. I got all set up ready to sleep but it was only 8 pm or so. I walked around the park taking some pictures of damage from the ice storm, bluffs, and a valley we overlooked. I also checked out the bathhouse which was SUPER SUPER clean and nice. After it got dark, I retired to the back of the suburban and opened my laptop to read some on my E-book and got a notice that there was an open wireless network! Sweet! The RV park even had free wifi! So I got on facebook. chatted with friends, and uploaded pics all from my cozy little "camper." The weather was perfect -- 60 degrees and very still. A storm moved through in the night and it rained just a little. But it was a sign of things to come...

Pre-Race

I woke up about 5 and got dressed in my race clothes and headed back into town. Stopped and got 2 cups of coffee at Mickey D's and made my way to the Cosmo. I ate 6 packs of instant oatmeal in the car (cold) and drank my coffee. Then, a bunch of hurry up and wait. Race starts at 7:30. At 7am it was 60 degrees and a little wind... but, conditions were deteriorating.

The Race!

After about 30 minutes or so trying to stay warm and loose, they finally fired the starting pistol. It was a herd of people all running together for the first mile or so. We ran thru downtown up and down some pretty steep hills and past Razorback stadium. The group started stretching out and runners were not so close together after about 2 miles. I felt great, as good as I ever had during a race. I was taking pics with my blackberry and texting them to people as I ran... hell it was not like I was gonna break any records where a minute or two was gonna hurt me any. We got the the half marathon turn around (everyone doubled back at this point, marathoners too) and there was a big crowd of spectators here cheering and such. It was pretty cool. I still felt great, almost too good... I was a bit afraid it was just adrenaline, and that I was destined to crash. I figured if I did I would want to be at full speed so I could at least crash and burn with style. Around mile 8 or 9, the marathoners turned off to the left as the halfers continued back to the start. We were basically out in the country at this point, running adjacent to a major highway. There was really no traffic and there were lots of cops and volunteers helping out. We headed back toward town, and eventually got on a park system jogging/walking/biking trail. It was about 10 feet wide, smooth and pretty hilly. It went under roads, over creeks, over roads and back. I was a beautiful side of the town that I am sure even some locals have never seen. There was a turn around about 13 miles where there was another large group of people cheering. They had the halfway point well marked and I felt so great, I remember thinking, "Wow, this is gonna be no problem." I ate a gel about every 6 miles and took a bit of water at each aid station (every 1-3 miles). I was really feeling good. Around mile 15-17 we got into Veterans Park and Lake Fayetteville. It got pretty hilly again, and the hills were starting to take their toll and I was getting a bit tired. We ran to what seemed to be the back of the park, and then turned around again. At about mile 19 my legs felt real achy and I was pretty tired... I guessed I was hitting the wall, but then I got a new burst and felt really good again about a mile later. Still on the trail, I took an extra gel and kept pushing on. I started slowing down, I know because I was starting to get passed by the marathon relay teams. Up to this point I hadn't really been passed or passed anyone for quite a while. About mile 23 I started move back toward downtown, and it started to get a lot more hilly. The fatigue was really starting to kick in. This was the farthest I have ever run. There were a few hills that I wasn't sure I was going to be able to get down. I said down. Not up. Strangely enough, going down got a lot harder than going up. The last 2 miles were steep up and down hills right in the heart of downtown. I didn't really notice them on the way out because I wasn't tired yet, but boy howdy I noticed them now. There were 3 hills in the last mile that I had to slow to a walk to get down because I honestly felt that if I didn't, I WAS GOING TO FALL. The last mile was absolutely brutal. Every step felt like my legs weighed a million pounds. I felt that feeling that I blogged about before... that feeling that you just CANT go any further. Not the feeling that it is uncomfortable and you don't WANT to go any further. I actually felt like my body was going to physically stop me from going any further. I told my self that my brain was in charge, not my legs. I told my myself over and over and over..."The only step that matters is the next one...the only distance that matters is what you cover with that next step." Over and over and over. I crossed the finish line. They put the finisher's medal around my neck. I felt like I just blew up the Death Star. I made it. 26.2 Miles - 40 degrees, misting rain and 25-35 mph wind. Three hours, fifty-eight minutes and eleven seconds. I beat my goal by one minute and forty-nine seconds. I did it.

Post Race

After crossing the finish, some volunteers helped me wobble to the food table where I grabbed a slice of pizza, a couple bananas and a coke. I walked around for 10 minutes or so until I felt like I was somewhat stable and then headed for the hotel. They had free massages, and I wasn't gonna pass that up. I was mostly wet from the mist and sweat and I got cold! I was shivering like crazy and could not warm up... even inside. I wanted to be done with the massage so I could go to the Suburban and change clothes and crank up the heat. It was 20 degrees colder now than when the race started and my body was having trouble creating and maintaining any kind of body heat at all. I hobbled to the 'burb (I was starting to stiffen up) and got changed in the back. Fired up the engine and the heater and headed for home. It was barely noon! What a day. I relaxed and enjoyed about a half gallon of Gatorade on the way home. I got home and told the kids my tale (they weren't really impressed) my six year old said, "That's pretty far". And my wife saw me limping and basically gave me a look that said "Don't complain to me, you did it to yourself." On the advice of a very experienced long distance runner I know, I took an ice bath. A bucket of ice added to bath water filled only from the cold nozzle. The initial shock and the first 5 minutes sucked...bad. But Sara gave me good advice, bundle up on the top half and that will help. I stayed in for 15 minutes, cause lets face it, my legs hurt enough (sore muscle pain -- not injury pain, thank god) that numbness sounded like a good idea. I got out and my legs really did feel better. I was gonna take a Motrin before bed, but decided that I earned this pain, I was gonna own it. So I went to bed, ached all night and slept like crap. Every time I rolled over it was pretty painful...not stabbing, but an achy-throbby type misery that gets old after 7-8 hours. The morning finally came, and I rolled out of bed to get ready for work. I could barely stand... all I felt was fire in both quads and calves. I have never been sore like this. I did a 20 mile run 4 weeks prior and was barely sore the next day... I was like WHAT GIVES! I guess the combination of a faster pace, the hills, and the extra 6.2 miles really took it's toll on the old stumps. From here I got a little better each day. I took the entire week off from running and walked Thursday and Friday. Eight days later I ran 3 miles that seemed to be like running about 300 yards.

Wrap

So I did this for cancer awareness and to raise some money, I am going to give the money to a local family this month, more on that later. The group I set up on facebook now has almost 600 people in it, so I will consider it a success. You don't have to run a marathon to help people. Donate blood to the Red Cross, volunteer with Habitat for Humanity or Big Brothers Big Sisters. It really feels good to do for others. Isn't that what it is all about?
So there it is... my adventure. Now the only question remains -- What's next?

Disappointment fades, excitement returns!

So the Olathe marathon got canceled due to a freak spring blizzard. 18 weeks of training in any and every kind of weather, and the race is canceled due to the threat of severe weather. What a ripoff. I will hand it to the organizers, they were very thoughtful, kind and respectful. They even had volunteers personally call and apologize and explain to us. It was nice, and I plan on taking them up on their offer of carrying my registration over to next years race.

In the now, I have elected to go run in the Hogeye Marathon in Fayetteville Arkansas on Sunday April 5th. (Assuming weather does not cancel it) It will be a lot more hills, but I am willing to accept that challenge. I trained for a marathon, I am running a marathon. How can I collect donations based on a run that I didn't do? I can't... I must run this race.

Also, don't forget that there are cancer patients (and many others) all over the county that use stored blood. Make a trip to your local blood drive and MAKE A DONATION to the AMERICAN RED CROSS! That little needle stick hurts a lot less than losing a loved one because the blood they needed was not available. Please, you will be glad you did. You don't have to run a marathon to make a difference. All the little things count.

Arkansas here I come!

Marathon Training Log - March 25th - Day 70 - 2 miles

I did it. The first of my two part goal is complete. I finished Hal Higdon's 18 week marathon training program. 70 training runs totaling almost 450 miles. I ran every run, and followed every strategy that he suggested. Accomplishing a goal that you set for yourself is a very rewarding thing, and today I feel awesome. The entire 15 minutes and 50 seconds I was running today I had a large grin on my face. My body feels great... I am ready. I am ready to accomplish part 2 of the goal I set for myself somewhere early in November 2008. I am going to finish my first marathon. Twenty six miles and 385 yards, or one hundred thirty-eight thousand four hundred thirty-five feet. The weather forecast does not appear to be great for Saturday, but I don't care/ that is to my advantage having trained in every possible scenario. I am ready. Ready to run!

Marathon Training Log - March 24th - Day 69 - 4 miles

Well I should have held my tongue instead of bragging about how awesome the weather has been. It caught up with me today. I got up about 5:15 and it was calm, but by the time I got my coffee it was raining cats and dogs. Thunder and lightning filled the air and the wind was swirling like hurricane Katrina had come back. I figured I would wait it out, being in Kansas the weather changes like a woman's mind. Sure enough, about 5:45 is slowed way down (almost to a sprinkle). I get dressed and head out for a quick 4 miles in rest mode and figured 35 minutes would take me around my 4 mile loop. About a mile into it, the ceiling opened up and the lightning and wind started back up. I jogged along with a smile (soaking wet) and made it back in about 33 mins. Not too cold, so it wasn't too bad being wet. The only problem was vision, cause when it is raining and blowing you almost need goggles to see. I was glad I wore a ball cap. Hahahaha.

Marathon Training Log - March 23rd - Day 68 - 3 miles

Another easy 3 miles. I am hitting right at 8m/m pace, but only cause I am forcing myself to slow down. I feel as fresh legged as I have in a long time! It was a bit windy, but not bad. Temp was 65 and AWESOME! I love to run. I did have this 'lightbulb' moment this morning. No big deal, I just figured out the meaning of life (not 42)...the meaning of life for me at least. Pain. Pain is the meaning of life. Not for what it is itself, but for what it does to your perspective regarding everything else in your life. Without pain, it becomes so easy to take everything 'pain free' for granted. Pain is the sharp reminder of what you have that is worth having. This is why I decided to do this race... I needed to feel the pain. My life had gotten so easy and soft, that I needed a reminder that everything is not easy and soft. I needed to remember not to take for granted all the things that I was just used to. Training for this marathon has opened my eyes to things I have never seen before, and wiped away misconceptions and incorrect perceptions that I have carried with me for most of my life. Without pain, you will never be pain-free.

Marathon Training Log - March 21st - Day 67 - 8 miles

Today was a nice day for a run. It was sunny and just a little breezy, an all around great day to try out my new shoes. I paid more for this pair than the last...ugh... but it was worth it. They are NB 1063 and are about the most comfortable shoes I have ever tried on. I love em. Anyway, the run was good, my little injuries I was dealing with are basically gone after a week of less miles and will be forgotten after next weeks final taper. I finished 8 miles in an hour an 5 mins and some change, so right on track with my normal train pace. Nothing much to say... felt good... only 3 more runs before race... I basically have a near constant case of butterflies.

Marathon Training Log - March 19th - Day 66 - 3 miles

Wow it has been a long time since I have run only 3 miles. I slept in, had 2 cups of coffee... I feel spoiled! T-shirt weather, no wind... what a great day to run. My foot felt awesome this morning when I woke up. I really had to force myself not to sprint the entire distance! I was keeping a pretty quick pace, and seemed to be done as soon as I started. The real taper has begun. My 'long' Saturday run is only 8 miles. Next week is almost exclusively rest, and then... BANG Marathon time! I am getting so excited that I am already having trouble sleeping. I will be a mess in about a week. I have finished EVERY single run in my training program to the letter. I have missed no time for any reason (early on I did put off a thursday run until friday) and I am very proud of myself. My 'new' shoes already have 200 miles on them and are worn thru the rubber on the heel... crap. Running may be a more expensive hobby that I guessed. I am gonna get a new pair before Saturday. The final countdown begins! Only 4 more runs for a combined total of 18 miles until the race. I will keep you posted.

Marathon Training Log - March 18th - Day 65 - 6 miles

Spring is really starting to get here... not just like the few false alarms we have had in the last month or so. The grass is starting to green up, and it is comfortable to run in shorts and a sweatshirt. Today i ran a nice easy pace (8:45) for my 6 miler. My foot was still a bit tender, so I decided to just take it easy. Upon finishing I was still feeling good... no real pain, but still a twinge. Nothing really to report about today, it is nice that the school is in spring break so there is almost no traffic.

Marathon Training Log - March 17th - Day 64 - 4 miles

Well good news is that my foot felt good this morning when I got up. No real pain in my hip either. I am sure I will be fine by race day. Today was nice and warm (around 50) and I made pretty good time right at 8 min mile for just over 4 miles. The sun is coming up right as I am finishing, and it is amazingly large. Bright orange and absolutely huge! The kids are on spring break this week, so I have absolutely no reason to hurry... I took full advantage and walked for another 15 minutes after running just to watch the sunrise. Pretty cool morning. These are little things that are easy to miss, don't let them pass you by. I know I won't. Don't forget, give blood... smile at a stranger... help a child... donate blood to your local Red Cross blood drive... anything, just do something. Just do some random act of kindness and you will see that it will make you feel better than any drink or drug that you can get your hands on.

Marathon Training Log - March 14th - Day 63 - 12 miles

A nice cool morning for a run. Somewhere in the low 40's, with just a hint of wind. I left the house right at 6:30 (early for a Saturday morning because we were going out of town) I felt good early on, but started to get some pain in my left ankle, and eventually in my right hip. Noting excruciating, but disturbing considering that the marathon is 2 weeks away. I finished in 12 miles in 1:40:01, so my time wasn't terrible but the pain worried me some. It is now Monday, and it still hurts when I first get out of bed. Hopefully it will feel better tomorrow morning or I may consider bumping this weeks runs back a day, will just have to wait and see. Tomorrow is a 4 mile run, and the weather should be near perfect.

Marathon Training Log - March 12th - Day 62 - 4 miles

The only thing hard about today was not running flat out. The distance seems so short, I barely feel warmed up by the time I finish. I hit 8 m/m pace (31:56) only because I was slowing myself down intenetionally. Last thing I want to do is hurt myself and not being able to run in the marathon running a 4 miler. That would seem like a waste of 57 hours 7 minutes and 10 seconds it took me to run 406.14 miles since November 25th. Anyway, my route this morning was the standard 4 mile loop that I have been running. I was a little tired, due to being up till about 2 am last night for nerd night (Dungeons and Dragons with Gene, Bryan and the boys). One thing I will mention is that it is not advisable to eat 4 pounds of Oreo cookies, Chips Ahoy cookies, no-bake cookies, pizza rolls, pringles washed down with a liter of water 4 hours before a run... I literally thought I was going to "toss my cookies". And on the advice of a friend I will remind you PLEASE DONATE BLOOD! Give something back to the community that you get so much from.

Marathon Training Log - March 11th - Day 61 - 8 miles

So this morning getting up at 5 am was a battle. It really felt like about 4 am for some strange reason... On the schedule today was 8 miles in the once again frigid air. It was 22 degrees or so when I left. I basically ran 2 laps around town, on my usual 4 mail path. The body felt strong, my chest cold is mostly gone, and I did it in 1:06:24. That's right about at my normal pace... I am running out of anything interesting things to say about my runs so I guess it is a good thing that the race is now only 2 weeks from Saturday!

Marathon Training Log - March 10th - Day 60 - 5 miles

Wow! It was almost muggy this morning. The time changed to daylight savings on Sunday night so it was a bit hard to get my butt out of bed this morning, but I was glad I did. Outside was a beautiful springlike morning; 72 degrees with a bit of wind. I put on a short sleeve shirt, a pair of shorts and my favorite running shoes and hit the road Jack. I was really pretty sore on Sunday and even still a little sore on Monday. This morning I felt tons stronger, and with the nice weather, and 11 less miles this week, I ran a good pace time of about 7:47 for today's 5 miles. A great rush after finishing, and the body felt great. Not much more to say other than I am really getting excited, and actually starting to feel some butterflies when I think about the race. On a side note, I have added over 320 Facebook friends to the Going the Distance for Families Fighting Cancer group that I created. Cool. If you want to find out more or donate to my cause, check out my webpage. Only 9 more training runs before the race. The countdown begins.

Marathon Training Log - March 7th - Day 59 - 20 miles

I have survived (and thrived) the pinnacle week 15 of Hal Higdon's novice marathon training program. Today I got up about 6 am after a good night sleep. I have been eating mostly carbs this week, and had bananas, coffee, and oatmeal for breakfast before driving over to my sister in law's house. She lives almost exactly 20 miles away. I hit the road with a southwest wind pushing me alone for about the first 10 miles. The turn to the west was brutal, as the wind was VERY strong and was about as westerly as it was southerly. The wind was blowing steadily at about 25 and gusting to up to about 35 mph! My route had a stretch of almost 6 miles. This was the hardest part of the run. I finished in 2:47:23. My goal was 2:40 so I am pretty happy with the outcome, considering the wind. Now it is time for the taper, and then......... the big race.

Marathon Training Log - March 5th - Day 58 - 5 miles

The legs were a bit tired today... and the wind whipping out of the south didn't help either. 30mph is not that fast if you are in a car, but when you are running directly into it... it sucks. I kinda slacked off going into the wind all the while telling myself that the time today didnt matter. I forbid myself from looking at the stopwatch and I didn't... until half way... then I realized I was going kinda slow at 23 minutes. I once again told myself to not care about the time. Unfortunately that did not work and I took off. I managed to make up the 3 minutes over the next 2.5 miles, and finished in 40:08 that means I did the last 2.5 miles somewhere around 17 minutes. Thats a pretty good clip for me... and it felt great when I stopped. I was really breathing pretty good. It did not help that I had a chest cold settle over me this week (just in time for the 20 miler!) It looks like the weather will be great for that by the way... Well my next report will come in after I finish my epic 20. Until then...

Marathon Training Log - March 4th - Day 57 - 10 miles

I had a real good run this morning, the weather was just right and I felt awesome. No new aches or pains... I didn't slack off, but I didn't push too hard either. I finished 10 miles in EXACTLY 1:22:00. I think this is the first time I hit a time on 00 seconds. That is 8:12 min/mile pace. I am pretty thrilled with that. The only thing that sucked was getting up at 4:30 a.m. (Not really that bad considering I go to bed early as hell) All in all a great day. Only one more run (5 miles) before the big beast on Saturday. The weather is looking nice for Saturday's big 20, as long as it is not too windy. That's all I got to say about that. Oh... I did start looking to get a shirt printed with the logo and names of the folks that I am running for today. I found a place that will print a single shirt and is not super expensive. I was planning on using an Under Armor shirt, but printing on them is difficult (and expensive) so I will just go with a long sleeve cotton tee. Here is what the early artwork is looking like...

Marathon Training Log - March 3rd - Day 56 - 5 miles

March is here. I am only 27 days from my goal. One thing I really really noticed about today's 5 miler is how much of a difference 4 miles make. I am not talking about today, but about Saturday. Saturday was 4 miles less than the previous Saturday, and I could definitely tell this morning. It surely helps that it was 30 degrees and no wind (nice weather compared to what it has been like the last week or so), but I felt so rested today. I decided to take it nice and easy and save a lot for this Saturday's epic 20 miler, and was very surprised when I finished faster than 8 m/m pace. I would have sworn that I was going no faster than 9 m/m. So today was a 5 mile route in 40:16. It felt good. I gotta get to bed early tonight, I got 10 miles in the morning, and am guessing it will take between 1:20 and 1:30 to complete. That puts me getting up somewhere around 4:15 I suppose. Ughh. Until next time...

Marathon Training Log - February 28th - Day 55 - 14 miles

No rest for the wicked I suppose. I had to get up at 5:30 Saturday morning cause I had to be back early. So I hit the street, and once again, it was cold. 77 degrees on Thursday and 24 on Saturday. I'm getting ripped off. Anyway, the 14 miles seemed easy (not fast though 2:04:42) even with the cold. Now on to the big one. 20 miles next Saturday. Almost there.

Marathon Training Log - February 26th - Day 54 - 5.5 miles

Yawwwwwwwwwwn... Ok, I am getting too old to stay out late on a week night. The getting up early really starts to take a toll on me during the week, and staying at Gene's till 1 am didn't help. I got to bed about 1:30 and up by 5:30. Out and running at 5:45 and back about 6:30. I am sleepy... Anywho, I made it. The weather was awesome... a little wind, and almost too hot for a sweatshirt. Somewere around 60 degrees at 5:30! I actually took off my pull over about a mile in and was perfect after that. My legs felt like lead blocks, and I was sleepy, but I managed. Decent time, about 8:30 m/m for 5.5 miles. Gotta get ready for a 14 this saturday. Gonna be cold again. Should be easy compared to last week. Until next time...

Marathon Training Log - February 25th - Day 53 - 9 miles

Dont Forget! Please help support local families dealing with cancer! Check it out

The weather is finally throwing me a frickin bone... Today was GREAT. 40 degrees with almost no wind. I love the cool air, and it even smelled a little like rain. I got sprinkled on Tuesday morning, but no such luck today. I basically broke this into 3 different runs; The first 3 miles I went slowly just to warm up, then the next 4 I really kicked it on, and the last 2 I sort of cooled down. Amazing thing is, I was almost exactly where I am pace wise every other day! Funny. I finished in 1:13:42. Just a little over 8 m/m. Originally my goal was 9 m/m. I am still shooting for 3:45 in the race. Only 32 days to race! Wow... I can hardly believe that I have managed to follow this training program so closely(I missed a single 3 mile run early on--and caught it up the next week). This was a 9 miler and the hardest thing about it was getting up early enough to get back in time to help get the kids ready for school. I did it, comfortably (actually felt really really good - which I needed as a confidence boost after the tough Saturday run) I am sure glad that it is warming up. Until next time...

Marathon Training Log - February 24th - Day 52 - 5 miles

To be honest, I was a bit worried that I would not be able to run Tuesday morning, mostly due to the soreness that I still had Monday evening. Only muscle pain remained from Saturday's long run and a good night sleep helped fix that right up. I left at normal time and it honestly seemed like I had cheated on the distance. It feels strange to think of 5 miles as just a short run, and I conciously decided to take it slow. That didn't really matter, as my pace was the same as it usually is. Not much to say about this run... the wind was blowing out of the east and it was a mostly comfortable 40 degrees. The route I took was mostly from end to end and side to side around town.
Until next time...

Marathon Training Log - February 21st - Day 51 - 18.14 miles

To be fair and objective, I decided to wait a couple days before posting about my long weekend run to make certain that I could put it into perspective first. A couple things about this run make it somewhat special; First, it is both the longest distance and the longest time duration that I have ever completed in a single 'run', a new PR on distance (18.14 miles) and duration(2 hrs, 44 mins and 4 secs). Second, this is the second to longest run of the entire training regimen. 18 miles... I have been looking at the schedule daily for the better part of 3 months now, and have somewhat lost perspective on how far that actually is. Saturday slapped me right across the cheek and gave me a real hard reminder of exactly why this is called a marathon. After runs of 5,10 and 5 miles and a single days rest I knew this would be a difficult day... but it turned out to be my most difficult so far.

This run was destined to be difficult from the beginning, but there were also a few extenuating circumstances that made it even more arduous. To start with, I got very little sleep the night before (due to some personal stuff I will not discuss here, but just know that the minutes actually slept were few and far between). About 7:30 am I gave up trying to sleep and checked the weather and I knew I was in for it. It was 22 degrees with sustained NW winds of 25 mph with gusts up to 35. Great. I have long since decided that weather would be a non-issue, and geared myself up to go. This time I took two 16 oz. water bottles, and 4 powerbar gel packs. Before I rolled, I ate 2 packs instant oatmeal, 2 bananas and 1 large cup of coffee.

I left the house and the first 4 miles were super easy(no hip pain at all, THANK GOD), basically with the wind at my back and the sun on my face. It was easy to stay warm, but I could just tell that my mind was just not right for this big of a push. I knew things were going to get worse as soon as I turned to the west, and boy was I right... According to a wind chill calculator that I found online, if you take into account that it was roughly 25 degrees, I was traveling between 6 and 7 mph (I used 6) and I wasn't running directly into the wind (used 20 mph) it calculated the wind chill at -12.7 degrees. Take on top of this the fact that the wind steals your breath, makes your legs push against a greater force, and the psychological factors... basically the math proves that this really sucked. It was a little better on the 5 mile stretch after making a U turn and running back to the east. The turn directly to the north (at about mile 14) is when this run morphed from something uncomfortable to something absolutely brutal.

At the time I came to my finish line, I have never been more ready to stop doing something than at this point in time. I felt emotionally drained, physically exhausted, and freaking cold. I was as profoundly miserable as I have ever been, yet at the EXACT same time I was as proud of myself and as completely satisfied as I have ever been. This illustrates to me perfectly that there is no pleasure without the existence of pain. So embrace the pain... The more intense and total that the pain is, the more your capacity to understand and appreciate the moments that are most important. I have never suffered from cancer, but I do understand what it feels like to have to force yourself just to take a single step. What I am still working to understand is what it feel like when it is your life in the balance.

If you would like to help me help families struggling with cancer, check out my site, or look me up on facebook or myspace.

Marathon Training Log - February 19th - Day 50 - 5.2 miles

The weather is continuing to play its games with me. One morning it is 43 degrees, the next it is 22. One day there is no wind, the next it is approaching tropical storm strength. I have come to the conclusion that in the end all of the training that I have done regardless of the weather will benefit me in the actual race. Race day is on March 28th, and in Kansas that could mean any variety of weather patterns, including but not limited to; wind, rain, heat, snow, ice, fair, sun, clouds, tornado, thunder, lightning and hail. Chances are the race officials would cancel for a certain subset of those conditions, but not all. So for me, I am basically prepared for any and all conditions to be no more than normal. If the day is perfect or cruddy makes no matter to me. Now treadmill trainers, and indoor track runners... they may be at a major disadvantage if they have to run in a cold wind that they are not prepared or used to. So, that's my perspective on mother nature is this; Bring it on. Today's run was a simple 5 miles, but unfortunately my hip kind of snagged and hurt. Not while I was running but after. It hurt to take a step. I stretched for about 10 minutes, and it worked itself out... I must have stepped in a little pothole or something. All good now (day after) no pain at all. Must have just been an anomaly. Even with some hip pain, finished in 42.29 for 5.2 miles. The main thing now, is gearing up for the big 18 on Saturday morning... I have been eating mostly pasta since tuesday. Yesterday for lunch I had chicken noodles and dinner fettuccine. Today it will be lots of fruit and veggies.

Marathon Training Log - February 18th - Day 49 - 9.5 miles

Awesome! About 150 people have joined my facebook group "Going the Distance for Families Fighting Cancer"! If you want to join, look me up on facebook ziggysocki@gmail.com . Or if you want to donate, check out my site and use your paypal to support my cause.

Another long mid-week longer run is behind me. This is getting harder to do, not because of the distance, but because I can't get up much earlier... Man, 5 am comes too early. When you are planning on actually running (not including warm up and cool down) for an hour and twenty minutes or so this leaves little time for things like showering and getting dressed before work. I'm just whining cause today I never really had a chance to get anything to eat, so I am kinda grumpy. The other thing that is difficult about these midweek long runs is the fact that it is hard to find enough roads in my little town of Girard, Kansas to add up to 9 or more miles. Treadmills, tracks, and running loops is infinitely boring to me, so I always try to run a route where I don't rerun the same stretches of pavement. The route I took this morning basically crisscrossed every street in town that runs from north to south. That still wasn't quite far enough, so I started hitting the east and west streets. I am conciously decided to take today a bit slower, so I could maybe keep a little fatigue out of my legs in preparation for this weekends 18 mile. So I slowed down, and man did it seem SLOW... but I did and finished my run in 1:21:05. This put me at just over 8:30 m/m pace. I was pleasantly surprised, cause if felt like I was crawling...a big difference those 25 seconds per mile made. I was barely tired at the end, and have not felt sore or tired at all during the day. Anyway, tomorrow is another 5 miler and then some rest before Saturday. Until next time...

Marathon Training Log - February 17th - Day 48 - 4 miles

Today begins week 13. 12 of 18 weeks and I have missed only 1 day of training (in week 3 i missed a 3 miler). Today's run was nothing out of the ordinary, 4 miles right at 8 m/m pace. It was about 45 degrees with a little wind. Wore my standard gear, and no pain at all. I could go much faster but this week will be a total of 36 miles, so I am not gonna push it and get injured this close to the peak mileage in week 15 (40 miles). I am really starting to get excited especially with my 20 miler in 2 weeks. That is the longest run of the program and is designed to really get you ready to mentally prepare for the race 3 weeks later. ( The final 3 weeks is a taper down period of rest).

Here is a cumulative summary of what I have done so far:

	Total	Average	Maximum	Minimum
Duration (hh:mm:ss)	39:42:35	0:49:38	2:17:25	0:23:24
Distance miles	282.66	5.89	16.77	3.00
Average Speed mph		7.14	7.94	5.68
Pace min/mi		8.44	10.56	7.56
Calories (kcal)	37826	788	2192	383

WOW! I will be well past the 300 mile mark after this week. It occurred to me today that I will be kind of lost when this is done, I will have to find something else to obsess over when this is finished.

And remember, I am trying to raise some money for families fighting cancer, at the same time remembering survivors, so help out if you can.

Marathon Training Log - February 14th - Day 47 - 12 miles

Happy Valentine's Day! What a beautiful shiny morning to go for a run. Cold crisp air greeted me at the door, but the warm sun made it totally worth it. I made a special effort to wave and smile at everyone that I passed. It was my way of spreading some random kindness... some people actually gave me strange looks. I suppose that they are not used to strangers smiling and waving for no apparent reason... they were probably wondering if I had mistaken them for someone else. If you want to do something kind of fun, during your normal daily routine, give a complete stranger some random compliment and then watch the response. I tried this yesterday, and one look I got was actually suspicion. It was strange. I'm gonna keep doing it. I know that even if they think it is weird it probably makes them happy. I don't know what this has to do running, but I have been on this strange kick to go out of my way to make other people happy. But I digress...

The wind was a little strong, and takes my breath away, it is kind of annoying, but a fact of life in Kansas. I finished my 12.3 miles with no pain at all in 1:39. Just over a 8 min pace... I am getting faster and stronger with every run... there is something to this whole "training" thing.

Marathon Training Log - February 12th - Day 46 - 5 miles

I know this is probably getting repetitive, but guess what, it was a nice chilly morning for a run. I headed out, did 5.25 miles in about 43 minutes. Nothing real special about this morning, every day that I get to run is a good day. This is the last real step back week as far as mileage goes, so I better get ready to log some big miles in the next 3 weeks.

And remember if you would like to support my cause check out this link

Marathon Training Log - February 11th - Day 45 - 8 miles

And remember if you would like to support my cause check out this link


Well folks, I knew it was coming. It was bound to happen with spring rapidly approaching. Last night we had severe storms and tornado warnings, and, of course, rain. I get up early to prepare for the midweek 8 miler and it is raining cats and dogs. It is fairly warm, about 48, so at least it wouldn't be too miserable. I put on some wind pants a hat and pullover and headed out. The wind was coming out of the north pretty good, and I was soaked by the time I hit the end of the first block. My legs were freezing through the wind pants, so I actually turned around, doubled back and changed into my winter fleece. Much better. After that, I finished the rest of my 8 in a total of 1:07:17. Not bad all things considered. Body felt great no real aches or pains. The new kicks are working wonders! I wonder how many more soggy days I will have until the race.

On a side note, 55 people so far have joined the facebook group I created called "Going the Distance for Families with Cancer". A lot are my friends and acquaintances, but people I don't know are starting to join! Cool. If you are on facebook, check me out ziggysocki AT gmail DOT com is my facebook email.

And remember if you would like to support my cause check out this link

Marathon Training Log - February 10th - Day 44 - 4.18 miles

Check here for more info about me and my cause, or to make a donation.

A 4 mile run after 2 days rest and I felt like I was flying. I took off about 6 (slept in a little) and when I hit the door, I could immediately tell that the weather was PERFECT. It was 59 degrees with just some wind. I loved every second of it, and had to actually fight myself to slow down a little and take it easy. Tomorrow is another mid week 8 miler, so I am gonna run a bit faster tomorrow because Saturday is only 12 miles. Anyway I finished today in 32:08 for 4.18 miles and walked for a few minutes after, just to really enjoy the weather (and the rush). Not much else to say, other than I LOVE my new shoes... I am already saddened to think that they will eventually wear out. ;(

Until next time! And if you would like to support local families fighting cancer, check out the links at the top and bottom of this post.

Check here for more info about me and my cause, or to make a donation.

Running for a Reason

Check here for more info about me and my cause, or to make a donation.

If you hadn't noticed I changed the name to my blog. During my long Saturday run, I was inspired to take the hard work that I have been putting into my training and using it to help something larger than myself. I owe a huge debt to all of those that helped my family and I over the last year while we were a family struggling with cancer. I came up with this idea to dedicate my marathon to all of those struggling families who have loved ones that have suffered or died from cancer. If you would like to donate or get some more information, check out the links at the top and bottom of my post. Thanks to everyone out there.


Check here for more info about me and my cause, or to make a donation.

Marathon Training Log - February 7th - Day 43 - 16.76 miles

Check here for more info about me and my cause, or to make a donation.

First things first, a HUGE thank you to my friend from the north pole, The Man From the North
Pole himself Roger Dubois!. Roger made sure that I realized how important a good shoe was if I was to continue running the amount of miles that I have been running as of late. I finally took his advice and bought a new pair of New Balance 1306 running shoes. (Although it looks like I overpaid by about 30 bucks!) These are made for longer distance than my old shoes, are motion control +, and I love them. I wore them for the first time Saturday morning and went almost 17 miles without so much as a single blister. I didn't wear any knee or ankle braces and my legs were tired, but almost completely pain free. THANK YOU ROGER! I should have listened to you 3 weeks ago.

As for my run itself, I left about 9 am and the weather was absolutely fabulous! 60+ degrees! There was a strong wind out of the southwest, but that just goes with the territory... welcome to the midwest. I had a long sleeve Under Armour shirt and running shorts, and felt so fast since I wasnt all covered up. I finished 17.76 miles in 2:17:25 so just about 8:12 minute mile pace. It was great. Don't get me wrong, I was tired at the end... But I just keep feeling stronger after each run. I took 4 gel packs and a 16 oz. bottle of water-ade (half gatorade - half water). I ate 2 of the powerbar gels; the first at 7 miles, the next at 12. It is almost time to take my second bottle of water with me, I ran out around 13 miles due to the warmer temps and the wind. All in all a great run. I was sore Sunday and even some this morning when I got up... the only thing that sucked was going up and down the stairs when I was working on my mancave yesterday.
Tomorrow is a 4 miles, no biggie. I will just take it easy to work out any soreness I have left.
Until next time...

Check here for more info about me and my cause, or to make a donation.

Marathon Training Log - February 5th - Day 42 - 4 miles

Blughhh... I'm exhausted. Unfortunately it is not from running, but from staying up late playing Settlers of Catan. Nerdnight at my house again and I didn't get to bed until 1:30am or so. My alarm was very unforgiving at 5:15 am and did not care that I won a game of Ca$h and Gun$ AND a game of Settlers of Catan. I got a cup of coffee and downed it in a hurry and hit the road. I mostly don't remember the first 2 miles, I guess I was still asleep. The 8 miles from yesterday affected me a little more today than they did yesterday, so between that and the sleep deprivation, I just took it nice and slow. Still finished in under 9 minute pace. A little windy, and looking like a warm up coming, so that will be nice for the weekend. I don't have much to say right now, at least not that I can think of... Until next time...

Marathon Training Log - February 4th - Day 41 - 8 miles

After coming in from my morning run I was fixing a pot of coffee getting ready to wake up the kids when I realized that I had just run 8 miles. I mean, 3 months ago I was regularly running 3-5 and sometimes longer, but this was a weekday morning. It hit me that my 'routine' distance has actually gone up A LOT. I ran 8 miles with no special planning, no food before... I just went and did it. I have kind of lost perspective on how far I am running. One of my coworkers asked me how far I ran this morning (cause it was so cold, only 12 degrees) that when I told him his eyes were wide and his jaw dropped. The point is this; I have been conditioning myself slowly over time so it doesn't seem that long to me.

Tomorrow I got another EASY 4 miles and then my longest run so far - 16 miles - on Saturday. The weather is looking good (freakin' 65!) but could be windy. I will check direction and then go that way... lol. Until next time...

Marathon Training Log - February 3rd - Day 40 - 4 miles

Today was the first run of week 11 of my training program. Nothing special about today's run. It is still cold outside, it is still dark at 5:30. One thing I noticed was that there are only 54 more days until the Olathe Marathon. Man, I am starting to get really stoked about this... I can't imagine the feeling on race day! I am really doing some long runs, and only getting stronger. Today's 4 miler is so easy it has become almost trivial... I almost feel like I am cheating myself. But, like the program says, not too fast on Tuesday, after a long run on Saturday it is meant as a way to loosen up for tomorrow's 8 mile. But damn it felt good today! 4 miles, in 32 min or so... a nice easy pace not too slow, not too fast.

Another random thought; I need new shoes. The shoes I am wearing now have about 300 miles on them. Also, doing some further research, the shoes that I prefer are probably not the best for long distance training. I like New Balance 790 cause they are light and comfortable, but they are intended for shorter distance trail type running. I am looking into a "Motion Control" shoe. Heavier, but preferred by distance runners, these shoes are best qualified for my feet, size, and running style. I used I guess it is time to go shoe shopping. No new aches or pains, but I don't want any due to old shoes.

After crossing the finish line this morning (my driveway) I slowed to a walk like I always do. I felt a huge rush of blood pulsing through my entire body, my skin immediately became much warmer, and it was about 30 seconds of this awesome radiant feeling. I get this after every run, but today I decided to put it into words to help explain to non-runners. People always tell me I am crazy to go out in this weather to punish myself running. It is a reward not a punishment. A natural high that has WAY more positive side effects than negative ones. In the last 5-6 years, running has helped me quit smoking, drinking, lose weight, get stronger and furnish me with more self confidence than one person deserves. It also helped give me the energy to survive the last year of my wife dealing with breast cancer and everything that comes with it; Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, etc... I am fully hooked on this 'runners high' as they call it. If I could make people feel the same with only words, I know the streets would be a lot more crowded at 6 am than they are now. If you want to try it, do it. Suffer through the first month, and I promise you change from going to sleep dreading the alarm to waking up before it with your running shoes by the bed.

Until next time...

Marathon Training Log - January 31st - Day 39 - 15 miles

The last run for the month of January. Fitting that it is a 15 miler I suppose. The distances have really started to build this month, and today's was the longest so far. I got up about 6 and ate 2 bananas, 2 cups of coffee, and a cliff's bar. Those things are good! Rob came by and picked me up on his way to work. The plan was for him to drop me off at 4th and Broadway in Pittsburg (Kansas) and I would run home. This worked out pretty good, cause there are some nice paved roads that have less traffic than the major highways most people drive. Also, there was a slight breeze out of the south, and all of this run is either to the north or west. To top things off, the sun was at my back and side, so no going blind. I felt amazing, and the weather is the most perfect for a long run. No wind, 30 degrees when I left, sunny and 40 by the time I arrived. I felt awesome the first 10 miles, and just normal fatigue after that. About 14, my legs, knees and ankles got really tired. I know this has to do with knowing I was almost home. I walked about a block2 different times, to drink half my bottle and eat a gel pack. They really kick in good after a mile or so.... I need to get some more.

Stats up to now:

	Total	Average	Maximum	Minimum
Duration (hh:mm:ss)	30:33:02	0:47:00	2:06:43	0:23:24
Distance miles	215.64	5.53	15.10	3.00
Average Heart Rate (bpm)		0	0	0
Maximum Heart Rate (bpm)		0	0	0
Average Speed mph		7.09	7.94	5.68
Maximum Speed mph		0.00	0.00	0.00
Pace min/mi		8.49	10.56	7.56
Steps	0	0	0	0
Calories (kcal)	29002	743	2022	383

Marathon Training Log - January 29th - Day 38 - 5 miles

This morning was a struggle to get out of bed. Not because I didnt want to run, but because of our (now weekly) boardgame night. I hosted last night and we played Robo Rally until about midnight. That was fun, but it comes with a price... I am just not used to staying up late.

Again today there was no wind. It was about 22 degrees when I left at 5:45, actually a bit warmer than it has been for a few days. I ran 5 miles today instead of 4, just cause I felt like it... The weather was nice, and the roads were mostly clear with the exception of an icy patch here and there. All in all a good day, I wore my old shoes again, and I am convinced that I need a size 12. I will look for a pair this weekend. I will probably switch to a new pair a month or so before the race.

I really didn't think about much else this morning (probably because I was tired) but I did think that maybe I will do something to make the shorter runs a bit harder. I could wear a weighted vest, or carry some weights... I will have to think some more on that...

Tomorrow is a day off, then a BIG 15 miler on Saturday. I think I am gonna run to Pittsburg and try and hitch a ride home. I need some new scenery. Until next time...

Marathon Training Log - January 28th - Day 37 - 7.76 miles

Guess what... it was cold today. Broken freaking record. It was cold...blah blah... It was slick...blah blah.... Ran 7.76 miles in 1:09:07. Not too bad considering the snow and ice. I felt good before, during and after. Hrmmm... Oh, it was 6 degrees, no wind... I don't particularly like snow, but the sparkles reflecting on the snow from the lights was really pretty. I got passed by maybe 3 cars the entire duration of my run. It is like the world is frozen solid, and I am the last molecule in the block of ice that is still fighting to keep moving.

I realized something today. I figured out at least one of the reasons I want to do a marathon (people ask me this all the time). There is this feeling you get after you finish something extremely difficult. I have felt it before, not been able to reproduce it for a long time. By difficult, I am not talking about an algebra test or working a 12 hour shift. I am talking about something so hard that at some point the ONLY THING you can think of is how much you want to quit. When quitting seems like the only option available, the only possible outcome but you keep pushing on and finish it anyway. Finishing, when you really and truly believed that you would not be able to finish gives you an indescribable feeling of accomplishment. That is why I am running a marathon. I want to want to quit. That's why I like the cold, the ice, the wind... If I don't get it from this marathon, I will keep looking.

Marathon Training Log - January 27th - Day 36 - 3 miles

Man, to look at my 3 mile time today you would think that I broke a hip or something... My time was 29:47 for 3 miles! Yikes... At least I have an ice storm to blame. Started sleeting yesterday about 3 pm. Businesses were closing, schools were canceling, and the police were urging people just to stay at home. The funny thing is, the main part of the storm had not really hit us yet, but was expected between 3-7 am. Nice, I run about 6 am everyday. So, aside from the amazingly slick surface, the freaky cold wind, and my eyelashes freezing it was a perfect day for a run. The roads were like polished marble with a dusting of baby powder for good measure. I wore an extra fleece hood, and an additional cotton sweatsuit under my fleece shells. Temp-wise, I was not cold at all...actually quite the opposite. I was pretty sweaty at the bottom layer. The wind really wasn't too bad, and the fleece over hood is like Eskimo style (sticking out like Kenny from South Park) and it blocked the wind nicely. Mostly I am just griping cause I am ready for spring.

Other changes today include: No tape, braces, wraps... Body feels like a 10. (could have to do with the 10 min/mile pace) Also, I switched back to my old size 12 New Balance 790's. I have been wearing same shoe in size 11. I need 12's. Feet feel much better after running in the 12's. The only reason I got the 11's was cause that was all they had, and my 12's rubber is worn to the foam on the inside heel of my right shoe. I must drag that, cause that is always where my shoes wear out. So I guess that is about it... Tomorrow should be interesting, a 7 miler on crappy ice covered roads... could take me 2 hrs! Anyway, until next time...

Marathon Training Log - January 24th - Day 35 - 10.59 miles

Cold. Cold. Cold. This was a stepback week. Long mileage dropped from 14 miles to 10 miles. Unfortunately, it was much colder today than last Saturday. 13 at 9 am! 17 mph wind out of the NE. I decided to mix it up some and decided to run down an old trail that is what remains of some railroad tracks that were removed 20 years ago or so. I have run by it a lot of times, and in the winter, from the road, it looks fairly smooth and clear of weeds and brush. I turned down the old rail path, and about 300 yards down from the road, it became very over grown. Sticker bushes, fallen trees, ruts, blackberry bush...etc. It was fun going over, under, around and through all the crud and also verrrrry slow. This track used to run for miles, but about 3/4 of a mile into the bush the path ended at a farmer's fence. So much for that. I turned around, went back and that was that. I decided I would just stick to the roads and head east. With the wind out of the north, it was a safe bet that heading out by the golf course would keep me from pushing for miles directly into the wind. Wasn't too bad, I finished 10.6 miles in about 1:28. My sweat and exhaled water vapor kept freezing and i kept knocking ice off my face mask...picture follows (not bad, considering I took it with my Blackberry without breaking stride! :-> ) You can see the ice...lol. I can't wait for it to warm up, cause I look dumb. I need to invest in some more stylish cold weather gear. (Glasses due to the morning sun blinding me) At about 6 miles, I walked for about a block and slurped down about 10 ounces of water and a Strawberry Banana Powerbar Gel Pack man they are GOOD! I noticed a real good boost somewhere in the next 1-2 miles... I am definately going to start taking one or two of them with me on long runs. They are easy to swallow, taste good and give a good energy boost. If you are interested, here is the route I took today ( kinda guessing on the railroad trail). I haven't done a summary for a while, so here it goes:

Cardio Summary Report

	Total	Average	Maximum	Minimum
Duration (hh:mm:ss)	26:05:24	0:44:44	1:55:54	0:23:24
Distance miles	184.82	5.28	13.60	3.00
Average Heart Rate (bpm)		0	0	0
Maximum Heart Rate (bpm)		0	0	0
Average Speed mph		7.13	7.94	5.68
Maximum Speed mph		0.00	0.00	0.00
Pace min/mi		8.45	10.56	7.56
Steps	0	0	0	0
Calories (kcal)	24936	712	1879	383

Marathon Training Log - January 22th - Day 34 - 4.75 miles

Didn't make it out to run this morning. ;(. I was too tired after playing boardgames at Gene's house last night. But, I did make it out right after work! Before dinner is not that bad of a time to run. I kind of like it. Also, it was much much warmer today. Around 60! Oh yeah. I wore shorts and a long sleeve tee shirt. Nothing on my head at all! I usually like to take it easy on Thursdays run (especially after being out till 2 last night and getting up at 6 this morning) but apparently wearing less clothes helps. I just finished 4.75 miles in 35:54. That is less than 8 minute mile pace, and I wasn't even trying very hard. I feel pretty good... maybe I will start getting a mile or 2 in after work. Here is the map of my route today courtesy of Google hack Gmap Pedometer. Until next time...

Marathon Training Log - January 21th - Day 33 - 7.2 miles

What can I say about today? Well, I was up at 4:58 am, and beat my alarm to the punch line. I made a cup of coffee and ate a banana before suiting up, figuring that it wouldn't hurt to eat a little something before a 7 mile pre-dawn jog. I covered up like I was headed for an Antarctic vacation and headed out about 5:30. Man I look pretty goofy. Meh...whatever...
Finished in 1:00:02. That was a good pace even with the cold wind blowing. Body felt great, wore knee brace and a piece of tape around each foot... body was a 10 after, and the run itself didn't feel that long at all. I was a bit worried about that distance before work, since I would be sitting most of the day, but I stretched out when I got home, and feel fine. That's really all I have to say about today. Until next time...

Marathon Training Log - January 20th - Day 32 - 3 miles

Tuesday runs are very enjoyable. I think there are a couple of reasons for this. The first reason is the fact that I am coming off of a day's rest and my legs feel awesome. Second, 3 miles is miniscule compared to the 13+ that I did on Saturday. Also, now that I think about it, I also miss running after taking a day off. Weird right?

So this morning I realized something; I am almost oblivious to the cold. I suppose that I have just become acclimatized. Earlier in the winter I used to not really look forward to the idea of going out in 10-20 degree weather, but now it is basically not an issue. I look at the current weather, but only to determine what I am going to wear for the run (not to be fashionable by any means -- I think I will post a pic on here with me all covered up like I'm headed to Hoth for a TaunTaun hunting expedition). This morning is was about 25, with a bit of wind out of the north.

On my Running Comfort Scale (patent pending, lol) I would give today a 10. I wore no tape, no knee braces and had no pain at all. My time was 24 minutes exactly and I was just running at a comfortable pace. This is exciting to me, because my race times in the 5k this summer were between 21:00 - 22:30 and that is in ideal weather conditions with no real long runs in between to cause any fatigue. I am curious what my time would be now under similar circumstances? I guess I will find out soon enough.

Today was the first run of week 9 in my training program so after this week, I will be officially half way complete. It really builds the miles from here out. Tomorrow the mid week distance jumps from 6 to 7 miles (quite a distance to tackle before work) and will eventually peak out at 10 in week 15. Until next time... oh wait, If I had forgotten to mention it already, since I basically quit drining alcohol all together in mid December, I am down from 189 pounds to 184 pounds. So I suppose that cutting those excess calories has helped...hmmm all my little nagging injuries have seem to clear up as well... Anyway, until next time!

Marathon Training Log - January 17th - Day 31 - 14 miles

This was my longest run to date. The program called for 13, but I just like to overshoot a bit to make sure that I got the distance covered even if I miscalculate or something. I finished in 1:55:54... Google says that is was 13.6 miles. Here is the map of the route. Wow, almost 2 hours of continuous, nonstop running and that is only a bit over half of a full marathon. I have come a long way after completing the first 8 week, but have a LOT left to go.

Well, I read stories about it, and now I get to experience it first hand. They say that some long distance runners will have toenails that turn black and fall off from the pounding. I took my shoes and socks off after I got back, and the left side of my left big toe is not quite black...but a nice charcoal gray. I don't know if it's going to fall off or not, but it feels kind of weird. Maybe I will post a picture of it later... yum... everyone loves feet. Keeping with the random nature of this post, I am learning things with almost each training run, the most important one this morning was to take it easy on the spicy foods the night before. I figured I would stock up on some high quality carbs the night before a long run, so about 8 I fired up the stove and made 4 packs of Top Ramen... yum. Well, rarely do I eat things exactly as they are designed to be eaten (seems I am always adding stuff) and added a few chicken boulion cubes, some cayenne pepper and a buch of cracked red pepper(yeah I love me some spice). Boy was it GOOD! Long story short, about 30 minutes into my long run, the sun came out and I started to sweat some. Then, about 10 mins later my eyes stared burning quite painfullly for no apparent reason. Then it hit me, I was sweating all of the capsasin (the chemical in peppers that makes it hot) directly into my peepers. Yeah, take it from me, this is one lesson you don't want to learn on your own.

Another random item... I bought some gel style insoles to put add some cushion to my running shoes. They do absorb quite a lot of energy, however they also absorb quite a lot of stank. I was sitting by my shoes stretching and I literally thought there was a dead dog stuffed with rotting pickles and sourkraut and covered with rancid grease under may crawlspace. Then I realized it was my shoes. I have never really had 'stinky' feet, so I will deduce that it must be the Dr. Shoals gel insoles. So, for what it's worth, if your going for function they are the way to go, but if a pleasant smell is what you are after you might want to try something else.

In the event that you are still reading, some notes about the run itself... I left right at 9 am, and it was about 35 degrees. It was a stiff wind out of the southwest, so I tried to adjust my route to avoid the stretches directly to the west. I still ran about 4 miles strait into the wind and, as usual, it sucked. It was comfortable as far a temperature goes, as it was about 50 by the time I finished. By the time I came stomping up to the house I had nothing on my head and was pretty hot. I ate some instant oatmeal and drank some coffee before heading out. That was a good energy boost thru the first 8 miles or so, but next long run I am taking some gel packs to swallow every 6 miles or so. Body wise, I felt really good thru the whole distance, once my left ankle felt a little tweaked, but it went away in less than a half mile. I had neoprene braces on both knees and had no pain AT ALL. Today (it is Sunday morning) the legs are a bit tired, but really, considering that I finished in under 8.5 min miles, they feel pretty damn good. Joints too. So I will give my body a 9 on the scale I set up earlier in another post. Next week is a stepback week, considering that my Saturday runs for the last 3 weeks have been 12,12, and 14 miles. I think next Saturday is only 10. Well... stay tuned!

Marathon Training Log - January 15th - Day 30 - 3.2 miles

So... day 30... hmm.. Where to begin? First, day 30 means training run # 30, not calendar day 30. This was the 30th morning since I started this program that I have gone out and run. So far, I have run in temps ranging from 70 - 6 degrees., wind, rain, ice, snow, clouds and sun. Welcome to Kansas in the winter. Today was a tie for the coldest I think, the sign on the bank said 6, my computer said 4 at the time I walked out the door. The wind was out of the north (of course). I was bundled up like Ralphie's kid brother, so it is a good thing that I didn't fall over. In addition to my normal cold weather gear I put on a pair of sweats under my fleece pants, an extra pair of socks, an extra pair of knit gloves, and a stocking cap over the top of my fleece hood. It was kind of overkill, but I am only saying that cause I wasn't cold. My eyes were just barely showing, and it was a good thing, because when I turned back to the house into the wind they almost froze in my skull. It was bitter cold, I am just glad there was no ice to contend with. Also, it was a short 3 mile run, and despite all the freaking clothes, I finished right at 8 min/mile pace. Body felt great, but i will give the day an 8 mostly for the discomfort due to weather, and a minor twinge in my right ankle. (no tape on feet at all). The brace for my right knee came in yesterday, so I felt back in symmetry this morning. Having both knees braced for the long run on Saturday should be helpful, I am looking forward to it. But tomorrow is a rest day, and hopefully it will be warmer on Saturday.

Cumulative Distance and Time Summary

Here are the stats that I pulled from my online fitness log.

11/24/2008 - 1/14/2009

	Total	Average	Maximum	Minimum
Duration (hh:mm:ss)	20:15:37	0:41:55	1:46:49	0:23:24
Distance miles	142.38	4.91	12.20	3.00
Average Speed mph		7.06	7.71	5.68
Pace min/mi		8.53	10.56	7.78
Calories (kcal)	19228	663	1657	383

Marathon Training Log - January 14th - Day 29 - 6.15 miles

Like I mentioned in yesterday's post, I did not get my left knee support before today's longer mid-week run. Turns out that it didn't matter at all. I did not realize how much the sore foot and hip had been slowing me down until this morning. Today's run was a 6.2 miler, and I finished it in just over 49 minutes. That works out to right at 8 min mile pace (I have been shooting for 9), so I was pleased with my time, but I was even more pleased how my body felt when I was done... I have been planning on doing a 1-10 scale of how I physically feel after each run but kept forgetting. I think of lots of great ideas while I am running, but like dreams, I usually forget most of them by the time I have finished my prescribed mileage. The scale is basically like this; 1 - Can't finish the run. 10 - No pain, good breathing, good time. According to this scale I give today's 6 mile jaunt a 9, and only because I had the faintest twinge of discomfort in my right ankle. It was really good... Honestly 26+ miles is kind of scary, but with each training run I am getting stronger, the short distances seem shorter, and the long distances get easier. I am fully confident that between my own massive stubbornness, and this great training program that I will successfully finish this race. One step closer to my iron distance behemoth.

Almost forgot, today's weather report: 35, slight breeze out of the south (unusual). More interesting is the fact that a cold front is expected to move in this afternoon and when I run it is expected to be between 2-4 degrees above zero. Stay tuned!

Marathon Training Log - January 13th - Day 28 - 3 miles

Well, not too much to report for today. I ran a little yesterday... real slow, mostly just to get out and get awake (and get my runners high) also ran with a pal that is wanting to get started.

Today was real cold... 13 degrees cold... but there was no wind so it wasnt too bad at all. The worst part is when your eyes water a little and then they freeze to your eyelashes. Anywho, another 3 miler, it seems soooo short now. I mean like I never even left, so I guess all these miles are starting to add up. Anyway I did it in 24:54 so not fast, but who cares. I didnt get my new knee brace today. I was hoping to have it for tomorrow but oh well.

Marathon Training Log - January 10th - Day 27 - 12 miles

First things first... knee brace = freaking awesome. I finished my long saturday run (12 mile) in 1:46:49 in substandard weather conditions (22 degrees with a 10 mph wind out of the northwest) and my right knee feels perfect. No ache, no pain. None during the run, none after. Awesome. I am going after one for my other knee today, worth every penny of the 12 bucks it cost. Back to the weather... The temperature really doesn't matter as long as your skin is covered. Covered skin warms quickly while exercising so cold isn't a problem. Now, wind, on the other hand sucks. It sucks. It cuts through your clothes, freezes your lips and sucks the air out of your lungs. I love it. It took what was becoming an easy 12 mile jog, and added some fire to it. The wind definately added additional challenge, mental and physical. Finishing today, my body felt better after this distance than it has before despite the piercing wind. I will do a summary mileage update on monday when I have more time...

Marathon Training Log - January 8th - Day 26 - 3 miles

After all the miles I have racked up since November 24th when I started Hal Higdon's novice marathon training program (120.85), the 3 mile runs seem so short. I mean it seems like no sooner than I start that I am done. I try to push a faster pace on the shorter runs, but it seems not to matter. I guess that would mean that I am making some progress. 6 miles is now a very comfortable distance to me, I basically feel like I could do that each morning if I wanted to. Speaking of comfort, I purchased a neoprene knee brace. I bought it from my local drugstore yesterday during my lunch break. At 12 bucks it seemed kind of high, but she offered to take it back if I didn't think it helped. This morning I pulled it over my right knee and headed out. Once I got used to having something wrapped around my leg, it was amazing. The added support really made a big difference. I finished with no ache in that knee at all, and as a matter of fact, I am thinking of getting one for the other knee as well. Hell maybe I will get the ankle braces as well, it might save some wear and tear on my joints.

Daily weather report: Not to out of the norm for January in Kansas. 25 degrees, no ice, no wind. Basically the same as yesterday - just a bit colder. Nothing out of the ordinary, it was a nice quiet run. There was very little traffic - haha there never is -- I finished in 24:02. Thats a nice brisk pace of around 8:00 min mile. Not fast but a little more than a leisurely jog. (for me at least) Until next time...

Marathon Training Log - January 7th - Day 25 - 6 miles

I am kind of experimenting with tape, wraps, and braces to see if they help minimize the impact on the joints. I would really hate to stop or slow training due to a painful knee or ankle. The first time I taped, I taped too tight and had to stop and remove the tape. oops, lol. Then today I tried a wrap on my right knee, it doesn't hurt but starts to ache. I wrapped the ace bandage a bit too tight, and had to unwrap and rewrap more loosely. That seemed to help, but now, after my run I have like a sore muscle feeling in the back of my leg. I also taped my feet this morning (no ankle) and that really seemed to help the strain on my ligaments and tendons in the feet. I am considering buying a neoprene knee brace to see if it makes a difference, assuming it is fairly cheap. I may try the same with an soft foot/ankle brace instead of tape.

Today's run was good (aside from dinking around with the wrap) and the weather was favorable. No ice on the ground, no wind, cold but not frigid. For a six miler at 5:30 am, I decided to stay in town and basically ran every north to south road in town. I like that route, and it is better lit than the county roads that I run on the weekend. My lungs feel great and my legs are growing stronger with each mile. Finished my 6 miles in about 53 minutes. I screwed up again and forgot to start the watch. Oops.

Like I mentioned, I am experimenting with bracing my feet and knees, but it is mostly just preemptive. I am really enjoying the training, and am looking forward to the race. I am also getting more serious about my diet, I ate really well yesterday. I have a problem with cake. I can't pass it up... It is like crack to me. I took the kids to a cousin's bday party and it was fully stocked with chocolate cake. I ate not one, but 4 (small) peices. I couldn't help myself. Good news, I was still under 2500 calories for the day.

Until next time...

Marathon Training Log - January 6th - Day 24 - 3 miles

Kids all go back to school today, and I forgot to set my alarm earlier so that I could get them up when I got back. I didn't leave the house until about 6:15 (usually I try to get back by 6:45 so I can wake everyone up). The weather was a balmy 35 degrees with no wind or precipitation to speak of. It really did not feel that cold at all. This morning I taped my right foot before going out. Not that it was hurting, cause it wasn't, I was doing it preemptively. Turns out, I taped it too tight, cause a mile in or so, the right side of the ball of my right foot was hurting. Damn, gotta learn I guess... So I stopped, took my shoe off, and peeled my foot out of the tape like an overripe banana. It felt perfect after that. Today was the best my body felt during a run in a while. I think this whole no alcohol thing is helping. Still doing good as far as that goes. I did screw up the schedule a little, confusing the distances of some of the long runs. Saturday was supposed to be a 7 mile stepback, and I did 12 instead. oops. Now I am looking at another 12 on saturday. I will take that for the day that I missed I guess. As long as I am still feeling good like this, I will go ahead and do the full 12, with the options to go down to 7 if need be. I sped up a little more over my standard pace...a little. I like to use the short run days as a warm up to what is coming. Tomorrow I am looking at another 6 miles. That is starting to seem like a short run... lol

Marathon Training Log - January 3rd - Day 23 - miles - 12

What an amazing day to run! I know it seems like I say that every day, but today is Jan 3rd and it was actuall 55 degrees at 9 am when I left. Almost no wind. It was awesome. I left and ran into a little bit of a south wind, and then turned to the west. Running out in the peaceful serenity of the Kansas pastureland was almost like floating through a brown dream. The sun was following me, warming my skin as I pushed on. Some where around mile 8 or so I saw a huge hawk sitting along the side of the road, most likely looking for a meal. If took to the air when I was about 10 feet from it. It had a large wingspan, yet made no noise at all when it took to the air. I had thought during previous runs that I would take pictures of any interesting sites I were to see along the way, but unfortunately I couldn't get the camera out fast enough to catch the hawk. I did take some other pictures though

I signed up!

So I registered for the marathon. Now there is no turning back. At least not without a 75 dollar sacrifice.

Marathon Training Log - January 1st 2009- Day 22 - miles - 3

Happy New Year! I made it all night only drinking water, v-8 and diet soda. Lots of good food, so I was well fueled for this morning's run. Today it is bright and sunny, but a chilly 35 degrees or so. I left the house about 9:45 after sleeping in some. No work today! HooRah. The wind is chilly and blowing pretty hard out of the south. I think this is the best I have felt since NYD since I was like 15. So my right foot still hurt this morning...these annoying little 'injuries' are getting annoying. It mellowed out after a mile or so, and then it was pretty good. I gotta start remembering to take sunglasses when I go run when the sun is out. So I did my easy 3 miler in 25:08, not fast, but fast is not really my goal. Gotta get ready for a long 12 miler on Saturday. It would be great if it was about 10 degrees warmer, but I will take what I can get. Until next time...