Still Waiting

I haven't heard yet about the job; I still am hoping for a call telling me I got it but I expected it earlier so...

I just finished 7 miles in 56:48 for a 8:06.9/mi. pace in my new Pearl Izumi Cruise. I have over 50 miles on them now. They are more stiff than the Nike Max Moto but I think right now they work as a 2nd shoe. When the cold weather comes, I'm not sure they will be good for me but I have a couple of months to get use to them.

One Day Before I Find Out...

I find out tomorrow if I am picked for the job at CCAT. I hope so.

10 miles today in 1:23:30, 7.2 mph. Tired legs at the end, probably from staying up too late last night. I'm not into writing today; had a busy day and I'm looking forward to getting a massage tomorrow. I haven't had a massage for a month and I hope Shannon can work a miracle and make me feel like I'm 30 something again.

Quick Run

I ran 5.2 miles in 42:32 today for a 8:10.8/mi. pace. I was in bead for 11+ hours last night; I was really tired. I felt strong today but with my interview in the afternoon, I didn't want to be tired at all. The interview was GREAT! I felt like I did a good job and they liked what they heard. It's the perfect job for me and I would really do a bang up job. I usually up beat but I'll be a little down if on Thursday they tell me they gave it to someone else. I can't believe that I am not the perfect candidate for this job.

Tomorrow I'll run long again but it is just 21/2 weeks until the marathon so I won't push it; aiming for 46 miles this week.

Tired Monday *

I didn't feel good until mile 4 and by then I had decided to only run 7. It was a down day on the job front and my class; I start at Target next week and I have one piece of code which isn't working and I can't figure out why. I went to validator, http://validator.w3.org/ and it checked out but one page does not link back to the home page.

I just heard on public radio that it is going to 80 degrees on Wednesday, Summer coming back on the 1st full day of Fall. That's one reason I love New England.

Today I ran 7 miles in 59:16 a 7.0 mph pace. I have an interview in the early afternoon tomorrow so I run short late morning.

Yeah! Sunday

Yesterday Simone wanted to run on her own; she still didn't feel 100% so she ran alone near her home. I took the opportunity to run 10.2 miles at 7.6 mph a 7:50.6/mi. pace in 1:20:00. I didn't get to sit down all day and my legs were a little tired today. After CCD and Mass I got a coffee and then ran 11 miles in the Pearl Izumi Cruise. It took 1:30:20 a 8:12.7/mi. pace, 7.2 mph. That was good after the speed of yesterday.
I think that Simone should run without me in the marathon. It'll be like a graduation and she'll be on her own. I have given her all the advice I can and she should experience the marathon on her own without me. The most important point is to have fun! Run and enjoy it and alone she will not feel any added pressure from me.

Inspired by my Son

I spoke to my son on Tuesday and he ran 15 miles so yesterday I was inspired to run a little longer than I had anticipated. Yesterday 11.1 miles in 1:31:00, 7.3 mph. I'm still breaking in the Pearl Cruise which are like Brooks and Saucony, a little firmer than the Nikes I run in most days. They put more strain on my left knee and right ankle. My legs felt OK after yesterday's run and today I ran 8.1 miles in 1:06:20, again 7.3 mph. I felt strong today in the Nikes and was on my way to accomplishing everything I had to do until my wife came home and told me that we may need to move a couch, chess of draws and a stuffed chair tonight. I'm not in the mood but...

Fewer miles this week ( about 48) but I have been over 50 miles 3 of the last 4 weeks and will average over 50 miles/week for the last 5 weeks.

Interviews 2 Days in a Row

I had a second interview with CVS today. I think they would have had a great chance to be a part-time Pharmacy Tech but I did have to tell them about Target if I get the job because they wanted me until 10 PM a few nights a week. Since Target would start at 4 AM I said I didn't think I could do it more than twice a week. When am I go to run and do my homework for my 2 classes?

Today I stretched and foam rolled my legs and I felt OK so I ran form 2:30-3:30 PM. If I get the job I'll have to run in the afternoon most days.

I ran 7.0 miles in 58:06 at a 7.2 mph pace. I feel Ok. My left knee was tight but it "popped" before I ran and was fine. I think it was tight from the 20, but I'll have to take care not to run too far in the new shoes, Pearl Cruise, until I know they are right for me.

A Day to Remember

Not for anything I did on the road. Today I ran only 4.1 miles in 33:57 a 7.1 mph pace. My legs were a little tired this morning probably because I didn't sleep too well again last night. I'm more tired not having a job than from running. Although my left knee hurt today. Well 32 miles in 3 days is a lot for me.

I had my interview at Target. I arrived when they asked me to arrive but the computers (2) were both taken so I had to wait. Then the screen I was suppose to go to was one back from the start but I was told to just "use" the computer. Finally, I found I had to go back one page to continue my application. Several questions later I was escorted to my interview. Sara was very nice, as was Jared. They hired me contingent on my passing a drug test and a background check. I peed in a cup later in the afternoon at a lab. I hadn't drank much all day since running and my urine was dark. I don't even take vitamins or over-the-counter medications so I should be Ok. By taking the job I am losing about $100/week below unemployment. Since unemployment was about 1/3 of what I used to make I feel like I'm sliding into oblivion.

Tomorrow I have an interview with CVS. If they like me and hire me part time as a pharmacy tech I then have 2 jobs. I hope I can run as well.

Day After Day

I ran 8 miles today in 1:09 for an 8:37.5/mi. pace which is not bad for me the day after a 20 miler.

I got new shoes that I ran in the 1st time today, Pearl Izumi Cruise. They felt really good with soft no seam uppers and good toe and heal support. I want to thank Shannon at the Fleet Feet store in West Hartford for suggesting the Pearls.

I don't know if it was the shoes, the Accel gel or all the running I have been doing lately but my legs feel like I didn't even run today.

I have an interview on Monday and Tuesday already this week; hopefully, I get a job offer.

Simone's Longest Run!

Today we ran 20.1 miles in 3:22:00 for a 10:06.0 pace.

5 days ago she ran 11.3 miles at a 8:24.4/mi. pace.

On August 22 she ran 18.1 miles at a 10:13.3/mi. pace.

On August 1 she ran 7.0 miles at a 9:21.4/mi. pace.

Her times keep dropping. I am going to have her do 800s on a track for speed work and we are going to run 8 miles with a 1.8 mile hill at the end for hill work in the next 2 weeks.

I hope both help her. I think right now she can run a 3:57 marathon. She felt ill during part of the run today but kept her pace steady from mile 4 through mile 17; just what I had hoped before the run. Cold water bath for her this morning and no running until at least next Thursday.

I finished the week with 59.4 total miles; the most in one week this year.

I tried Accel Gel (Chocolate, 20 mg caffeine) on the run. The BEST chocolate gel I've tasted.

One More Day Until Simone's Longest Run

Yesterday I ran at lunch; 8.7 miles in 1:13:00. I felt good and it was a very productive day.

Today I was tired and almost decided to skip the run but after doing homework in the morning and running errands I went out at lunch. I was tired until about mile 4 so I only ran 6.1 miles in 51:08.

I'll take tomorrow off and try to get my next assignment for each class finished so I won't have to do too much on Saturday after our 20 miler. It's suppose to get a little warmer and may rain early but it rained for our 18 miler so I think Simone will be prepared.

Rain doesn't ever bother me unless it's really cold too.

Feels Like Monday

Applied for 3 jobs this morning after bringing 2 of my grandkids to school. I planned on running around noon. It took almost 3 hours to apply for jobs.

I thought I should take it easier this week since Simone and I plan to run 20 on Saturday.

I ran 6.2 miles in 52:08 for 7.1 mph and a 8:24.5/mi. pace. It had gotten hot by noon and a little humid so I'm just as glad that I planned a shorter run. If I keep my runs short tomorrow and Thursday I'll still have my longest mileage week for the year after Saturday.

Yesterday and Today: 5 Weeks to Hartford Marathon

With the cooler NE weather my speed has returned. I took it easy yesterday and still ran 7.0 miles in 57:34 for 8:13.4/mi.

Today I ran with Simone and she exceeded my expectations by running 11.3 miles in 1:35:00, 7.1 mph and a pace of 8:24.4/mi. That equals a 3:40.5/mi. pace for 26.2 miles. I know you can't judge a marathon on only 11 miles but she is a strong runner and I believe she can run miles 3-18 at about the same pace. If the last 8 miles are 2 minutes slower per mile then that's still a 3:57+ marathon and under 4 hours. That would be awesome!

My daughter Tiffany is on the St. Joseph's College XC team. Right now she is their 7th best runner and their #1 Freshmen. Her meets are on Saturday so I hope I can find a job that is M-F any hours so I can run my 2 marathons and see most of her meets.

My oldest daughter Julie ran XC in high school and I know from that experience that there are few spectators at XC meets.

My total for the week was 53.2 miles.

A Perfect Saturday in CT

I started running at 9 AM; the weather was perfect cool, slightly overcast and no wind. My legs felt a little heavy at first and I planned to run only 8 miles to get 50 for the week. Even though it was a great day I started out thinking it didn't matter how fast I ran I just wanted 8 miles. I ran a different route than I originally planned because I have been running a lot lately and needed some new scenery. When I got past the 4 mile mark I was feeling better. At about 7 miles another runner came around the corner in front of me and I picked it up. She was speed walking and sprinting so she passed me and then I passed her. I keep up a good pace from there to the finish; I think she really helped me kick it up a notch. I know Simone could do the same but she seems content to have me push her and not try to go past me. I am faster over a long run but she has considerable speed if she wants to show it. Any suggestions how I can get her to pick up the pace.
In all fairness, last week she did run 10 at her max speed for the last 7 miles. We run on Monday this weekend; I hope we come close to 7.0 mph pace.
I finished today 11.0 miles in 1:27:00 for a 7.5 mph pace 7:54.5/mi. as fast as I've run over 10 miles in weeks. 53.2 miles for the week. I feel really good right now. Now if I could only have the same success in my next interview, that would be great. I'm ready for the challenge.

Friday a Day of Rest *

I'm off today.

Yesterday I ran 9.7 miles in 1:21:00, a 8:21.0/mi. pace. 42.2 miles so far for the week.

In the news Oakland will have a marathon next year for the 1st time in 25 years. Theirs site is:

http://www.oaklandmarathon.com/site10.aspx

I read a news headline about Madonna was going to run the Marathon des Sables, a 151 mile ultra. It's not true but the marathon, with an entry fee of $3,950, makes interesting reading. The site is:

http://www.darbaroud.com/index_uk.php

September 2

I had to watch 2 of my grandkids today so I didn't get to run until 3:45. 7.0 miles in 59:18 for a 7.1 mph pace. 4 cars ran me off the road; that is why I like to run in the morning. I did my homework for my web design class and tomorrow I hope to get my homework for my programming class done. 32 miles so far this week.

I didn't get the full time job at Rockville Bank but they offered me a chance to have part time at 3 different branches. It's too bad; I had good feelings about the Coventry branch.

First Tuesday in September

September? Where did the Summer go? I know it's still Summer but school is back in session and it never seems like Summer then. Ran 10.5 miles today in 1:26 for a 7.3 mph pace. My right knee hurts; Shannon said to castor oil it because she felt there was stagnation in the area. She is very good and I usually act on her advice but I have been so busy with so many things I have not had a chance to do it. I did not get the second interview yet with Rockville Bank; Sue the branch manager said she would call me tomorrow with details. I have so much to offer but I feel that people think I'm too old. I'm taking 2 classes in web design and programming I run at least 40 miles a week and I do numerous things for friends and family besides cooking dinner most nights but I'm too old. I would like to see someone 20 years younger keep up with me. I think America is throwing away a whole generation of people early because of the recession. I haven't even been able to volenteer because there are so many people my age volenteering! I would like to help people be healthier and get more exercise but I don't know how to reach a larger number of people except through the Senior Center. Most of the "Seniors" are already doing more.

I hope I can run the 2 marathons in October. I will look for work soon that will not care weather I run or not. They will care only if I show up. America could be so much better than it is; we should work to improve our lives not just to work.

A Hectic Monday

I wasn't able to run until the afternoon. I had sooo much to do today. I ran 8.0 miles in 1:08 for a 7.0 mph pace. I finished the month with 177.3 miles. After running I had to cut the grass which took 2 hours. I filled out 4 job applications and right now I'm as tired as I ever get early in the evening. I may go to bed early tonight.

Sunday and no Rain

It's been raining a lot lately; yesterday's 10 miler was completely run in the rain. Which is OK but after awhile the shoes won't dry out in 2 days.

Today I ran 7.0 miles in 59:16 for a 7.1 mph pace. I had a massage yesterday, the first one in a month, and parts of my right leg/ankle/foot were tender and sore. My oldest daughter and her 2 kids are moving in with us and we are moving a lot of their stuff in today so I felt I should take it easy. I felt a twinge in my lower left back while carrying stuff and so it was a good thing I didn't run further. Right now I feel fine.

Tomorrow I have homework to do and jobs to apply for. The last day of August will be an easy running day.

Last Saturday in August *

Where has the Summer gone?

Simone and I ran 10.2 miles today at about a 7.0 mph pace. I suggested she needs to tell herself that she can run this pace from mile 3 to mile 20 in Hartford. I know she can do this; it's just a matter of her thinking she can do it.

I ran three 10 milers this week and a total of 48.0 miles for the week. So far for the month 169.4 miles with 2 days left. That's the most miles for a marathon month this year.

Here is part 4 of training for a marathon, http://www.examiner.com/x-14489-Extreme-Fitness-Examiner~y2009m8d28-Extreme-fitness-101-the-day-of-the-marathon-Part-4-conclusion

I especially like "Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.” Steve Prefontaine, American running legend

Thursday Already! *

I felt better after running a shorter distance on Monday so on Tuesday I ran 10.2 miles in 1:21:00 a 7.5 mph pace. I had read Lindsay's post on her blog, Chasing the Kenyans, and it inspired me to run further than I had originally planned.

Wednesday I had an interview so I could run only 5.3 miles in 42:20 for a 7.4 mph pace. The interview went well; I'll hear Tuesday if I get a second interview.

Today I woke up tired but I felt like a longer run would help so I ran 10.0 miles in 1:24:00 a 7.1 mph pace.

I haven't been on Twitter much this week and my classes start tomorrow, so I have one more thing to do. Off tomorrow and 10 with Simone on Saturday, probably in the rain.

I did read one interesting article today, http://cincinnati.com/blogs/running/2009/08/26/choosing-a-marathon-training-program/ about different marathon training programs. Always good to read about what others do to prepare to run a marathon.

Yesterday and Today

After Saturday's run my left ankle was a little tender. I iced it for awhile and it seemed OK.

My lower back and my neck were also out of whack! I ran 7.1 miles on Sunday in 58:11, 7.1 mph. Saturday was too slow for me, I need to run closer to 7.0 mph, but I realize that I need to go closer to what Simone needs to run. I try to stay a little ahead to push her some and it seemed to work until mile 16. We needed more to drink.

Today I was tired and I felt I shouldn't run more than 30 miles in 3 days so I ran just 5.2 miles. That's 30.4 miles in 3 days, 126.6 miles for the month so far. Busy day today; a couple calls about a job.

I feel like I have been eating too much lately. I have had ice cream several times during the heat wave. I don't usually eat ice cream at all.

Today I posted on Twitter a link about someone who is running 63 marathons in 63 days. 52 in 52 now 63 in 63 days, what's next? How do they find the money and the time let alone the stamina?

Simone's First 18 miler *

Today I ran with Simone for her August long run. I had to call her at 5:50 AM and push the time back to a 7 AM start, we had planned on 6:30, because there was still thunder & lightening in the area. At 7:05 we started and it started to rain and rained for about 4 miles. It was nice, kept us cool and the sun came out when it was still raining. I love to look up and see the rain in the sunshine!

We started at a 6 mph pace and kept a 5.9 mph pace most of the way. It was VERY hot and HUMID!

Simone did well but needed more to drink at 16 miles. We both carried 4 bottles but it was too hot. We finished 18.1 miles in 3:05 a 5.9 mph pace. We were able to walk about a mile back to my house. Her 1/2 marathon time was 2:14 which is 22 minutes slower than her PR. I know that she will run much faster in the marathon. How fast? I'm still not sure.

This time I suggested she not run again until at least Wednesday; she may feel the effects of the run the most on Monday and then recover Tues/Wed.

I read a great list for 1st time marathoners/1/2 marathoners on http://www.nomeatathlete.com/nutrition-training/marathon-race-day/

Good advice for experienced marathoners too.

Back to Running

I took a total of 5 days off and started to run again on Saturday, 4.1 miles in 32:50 for a 7.4 mph pace. It always seems like I can run fast on my first day back after a break. BUT usually I hurt the next day. This time I felt fine and on Sunday I ran 6.2 miles in 51:00 for a 7.1 mph pace. Monday I increased the mileage once again to 7.1 miles in 58:21 for a 7.3 mph pace.

Yesterday I went back to my hometown to run along the Sound; the previous day was so hot and humid that I felt a day at the beach would do my legs a lot of good. I ran 5.8 miles in 48:00 and spent a lot of time in the water and walking on the sand. The cool breeze and salt air were wonderful. I wish I still lived on the shore.

Today was another humid. I ran 7.1 miles in 58:52 for a 7.1 mph pace.

I talked to Simone last night and we will shoot for 18 miles on Saturday 2 weeks after the marathon. I thought it would be good practice for me to see how I feel since I would like to try to run the Hartford and Marine Corp within 2 weeks of one another in October.

This will be Simone's longest run ever; we'll start about 6:30 AM when it should be a little cooler.

More Thoughts on Drake Well *

Dane Rauschenberg the race director for the marathon has a great blog and a recap of the marathon here, http://danerunsalot.blogspot.com/2009/08/drake-well-marathon-recap.html

He has several pictures of people I ran with and recognize and if you read it , Kelly and I saw the green bus.

Dane ran 52 marathons in 52 weeks in 2006 and has a book "See Dane Run" about the adventure.

It's interesting how your legs feel the worst 2 days after the marathon and then definitely get better. I walked 4 miles today and my legs feel so much better than yesterday. I hoping I can run on Saturday about 4 miles. In October I'm trying to run 2 marathons in 2 weeks; I've run 2 in 3 weeks successfully so I'm sure 2 in 2 is also doable.

Drake Well Marathon

It was a great day; I came in in 3:48:19 unofficially.

Let me start with leaving on Friday. My daughter Kelly and I left at about 10:30 AM for our first part of our trip. State College in PA. I drove much of the way since I thought Kelly may have to drive most of the way home on Sunday.

We stayed at the Courtyard by Marriott in State College. Nice big pool and the room was good except the bed was a little soft.

We ate at Otto's brew pub. On Friday they tap a Firkin at 5 PM. Unfortunately, we arrived at 5:30 and it was gone. Their beers were excellent; I bought a bottle of double D IPA for later which was also excellent.

We went shopping at Giant; lower prices than in CT.

The next day we stopped at Panera's on the way to Franklin, PA and a Ouality Inn. At both motels the people at the desk were great.

We drove the 35 minutes to Titusville at about 2:00 to check out the town before the packet pick-up at 4:00. I asked at the community center where the start was and if we could get directions to drive the course. The start was at a one way bridge not far away.

We got to the bridge and proceeded down the dirt road but only went about 3/4 of a mile before we decided it was too rough for the car.

I don't have a lot of trail experience and we were warned about watching our step and the dogs for the first 4 miles. Kelly and I drove what we thought might be part of the course. The hills were long and steep. We then went back to the Community Center to retrieve my bib number, chip and shirt. This is the first year of the event. They handed out the gear in a small room and were well organized. The pasta supper was home made for $5 but it ran from 5-7 and we needed to go to church today so we looked for a restaurant in town. We discovered the Blue Canoe, a brewpub which we learned had been opened for about a year. The beer was excellent and the food was too. We had a hummus appetizer and I had vegetable casadilla. I usually like to have WW pasta but I have found that I just need to eat fairly early the night be fore and have food that moves through me well; avoid cold and oily foods.

We went to St. Titus at 5:30 and were back at the motel by 7:15.

I usually don't sleep well the night before but I had slept well Friday night. I was awake at 2:00 AM and 3:00 and finally got up at 4:35. Stretched and put on my gear. I ate a banana at 5 and then the Tylenol followed by a Powerbar at 5:30 just before we left. The motel had coffee ready and I had a small cup I drank in the car; 1/2 regular 1/2 decaf. I stopped drinking water and went to the portapotty at 7:35.

I felt like I had forgotten something but couldn't think of what it was.

We arrived 40 minutes before the start.

We talked to several runners and 4 Maniacs. One women running the 1/2 grew up in Titusville and her father was involved in getting the bike trails made.

There wasn't a timing mat at the start which seemed a little odd but there was suppose to be 2 killer hills so I knew this wouldn't be a fast race for me. I was just going to enjoy it.

We started on the parking lot side of the bridge and took a loop around the Drake Well museum before hitting the dirt road.

There was a river next to the road and after the first 1/2 mile the road lost most of the pot holes. The hills weren't that steep on the dirt.

We ran down a paved road and around a corner and the hill went straight up. 1/2c the people were walking. I managed to run up and passed several runners who passed me on the downhill.

The uphill was OK but the down was too steep for me and I had to slow. This turned into another steep climb and I passed the same runners and a few others. I was kidding with them I would see them pass on the downhill.

The first 7 miles were hilly and we did run down another dirt road. From 7 -10 we ran through the town and back out to the bridge.

At mile 10 we went up a hill to the bike path. This part of the course was a loop; mile 10-25. It was under trees the entire time but not too many bugs. It was nice to be able to see the lead runners and I felt strong up until mile 21. 21-24 was tough I started to feel tired and my legs were a little tight.

The volunteers were fabulous!!! I can't say enough about them. I was able to pass people from the town to mile 22 and only one person passed me that I didn't pass back.

The end was across a field at the park and then onto an artificial track.

I came in 23 out of 116, 1st in my age group of 7 runners, http://runhigh.com/2009%20WEB%20RESULTS/R080909AC.HTML

The post race food and music were excellent for any size marathon.

We ate at the pub on the way out of town; several of the runners showed up.

The ride home, due to construction, was long and we arrived home at 11:45 PM.

I drove most of the way my legs seemed OK; I kept massaging them all day and drank water every 45 minutes.

4 Days to Go!!!

Well it's only 4 days until the Drake Well Marathon. I received an email that someone will be running it in Afghanistan simultaneously.

I took off yesterday and went to bed early last night; although, I heard the Red Sox lose in the 13th :-( I woke up with my left hip/back out of align. Great!!! I also had a migraine before my interview this morning.

The results of the interview: I came home and applied for 3 more jobs. I have a chance but no better than 50:50.

It's too late to see Shannon or Brian (my chiropractor) so I just hope my back allows me to run strong after the 2 big hills.

This is my 21st marathon and I haven't had to DNF yet; I usually feel good during the race no matter how I feel before. This has definitely been a tough 4 months. I'm sure better times are ahead.

Since several more people in my "network" were laid-off last week I don't expect much help from friends or family. Today I felt I was too old and had earned too much in the past to be considered. It's a great country that rejects experienced workers. I still have a lot to offer; someone has to give me a chance to prove it!

Tapering

On Saturday I ran a slow 7 miles with Simone. It was our first run together in 2 weeks. She hadn't been able to run after the 16+ miles. It was good and I believe she is back to form. I had texted Shannon and she said epsom salts + baking soda bath and ice her sacral bone on lower back then heat and repeat every 20 minutes. This seemed to work.

On Sunday I ran 10.0 miles in 1:27:10 a 6.9 mph pace. I took it slow and probably ran a little too far but it was a beautiful day and I just want a long run.

Today seems cooler and I will run only 6. I'll add to my post later.

Musings on my Day Off *

I try to periodically get rid of my old shoes but I'm sure my wife feels the same as Tara on http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/07/30/keeping-old-running-shoes/

I really like reading the Well blogs on the NY Times. There also great stories under the "Running Voices" here http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/05/27/health/MARATHON_VOICES.html

I don't know about you but I subscribe to 3 running magazines and I never seem to have the time to finish them before the next issue of at least one of them shows up in the mail. All 3, Runner's World, Running Times and Marathon and Beyond, have timely and valuable articles.

End of the Month

Yesterday I ran 5.1 miles again and today I ran 7.0 miles in 59:00 7.1 mph pace.

The total for the month of July is 223.6 miles since I'll take tomorrow off.

Simone is having tightness in her right leg so I'm not sure how many miles we can run on Saturday.

I drank more today and there was a breeze periodically so I felt somewhat cooler. All my shoes aredown to the last 50-75 miles except my newest pair. I'll need to buy at least one more pair in August.

Tired Legs

Yesterday I ran 8.0 miles in 1:06:10; this coming weekend will be my last long run before the marathon. I am now tapering and will run 40 something miles this week and around 30 next week. My legs were tired after the run yesterday. Ice and elevation the order of the day.

Today I ran 5.1 miles in 43:30 7.0 mph; legs feel good. Weather continues to be very humid!

I missed the Whole Week?

I can't believe I didn't write all week after Monday.

I was very busy looking for a job, I had 2 interviews, and I ran a record # of miles for the week for 2009.

A summary of the week since Monday:

Tuesday 7.1 miles 59:54 7.1 mph

Wednesday 7.1 miles 1:00:10 7.0 mph

Thursday 10.2 miles 1:25:00 7.2 mph

Friday OFF

Saturday 7.0 miles 59:11 7.1 mph

Sunday 11.6 miles 1:37:55 7.1 mph

Simone had tired legs this week; I made the mistake of telling her to take only 1 full day off after her longest run ever!!! 3 days off would have been better; she had problems on Friday and we talked. I had her rest for the weekend and see how she felt on Monday. Hopefully, she will be OK and will be able to run 2-3 times this week.

I ran 58.5 miles for the week and I'm up to 198 miles for the month, both are 2009 records.

If I didn't have a marathon in 2 weeks I could try and set an all-time monthly record. But I could hurt myself too so it's best I run in the 40's this week.

Monday Run *

Today I ran 10.7 miles after running 16.4 yesterday and I still feel OK. I ran 10.7 in 1:33:20 at 6.8 mph a 3:42.8/mi. pace. Slow but 27.1 miles in 2 days is a lot for me.

My legs actually feel stronger after hurting my left foot last Thursday.

I've been eating a lot of vegetables in the last few days and also salmon and 3 hamburgers.

I've iced my legs a few times too. I may finally go over 50 miles for the week this week.

There's a good article on http://www.marathonguide.com/index.cfm, 'Spacing out' helps distance runners cope with rigors of race http://bit.ly/38MHU7

This happens to me on my long runs too. I'm usually alone and I never listen to music. It used to be even worse when I first started running long. My longest training run has been just over 24 miles.

Catching up for the Week

It's been a busy week. My son and grandson were visiting from Raleigh for the week. My running went like this:

Tuesday 10.6 miles 1:26:30 7.3 mph

Wednesday 6.2 miles 49:19 7.5 mph

Thursday Off

Friday 7.1 miles 58:19 7.3 mph

Saturday 8.5 miles 1:11:10 7.1 mph

Sunday 16.4 miles 2:31:00 6.5 mph

Thursday I went to the beach with all the grandkids and I fell back off of a rock. It hurt my bunion which was tender for 2 days. It felt OK today on the long run.

This was Simone's longest run ever. She did great and only tired a little after 12 miles. Next time she needs to drink more and and more miles she needs another gel.

Monday, Monday

I ran 10 miles yesterday in 1:22:30.

I was up until 12:30 last night and awake at 5:30.

Today I ran 7.0 miles in 59:48; very tired. I need to come up with some energy for tomorrow.

It remains cool probably 10-15 degrees below the seasonal average.

Last Day of the Running Week *

I ran 7.0 miles today in 56:10 for a 7.5 mph for an 8:01.4/mi. pace. A total of 49.5 miles for the week. I believe that is the longest weekly mileage for the year.

I raced off to get a massage after that since I have to drive about an hour to get to Mansfield CT. Shannon was par excellent! as usual.

Today they run the Leadville 100 and trail marathon, http://www.leadvilletrail100.com/

Leadville is about 2 hours from Denver. I hope whatever job I get allows me the time and $$ to train for it next year, the marathon that is :-)

I'm thinking of signing up for the Monster Trail Marathon, Virgil NY, http://www.fingerlakesrunners.org/ Sept 6. It's about a 4 1/2 hour drive and it's run on Sunday. Since I'm 57 I would start around 7:00 AM so I could probably be back home by 5:00.

If I have a job by then, I may still be able to run it.

Friday July 11 *

I ran 7.0 miles today in 58:10 at 7.2 mph. It was sunny and cool, high 60's. The temperature is about 15 degrees below normal. I have already run over 42.5 miles this week and I hope to run about 10 miles tomorrow. Check out the 37th annual Master T&F Championships, http://www.thenorthwestern.com/article/20090710/OSH02/907100434

I hope I'm still competing when I'm 90.

Day Off After Long Run *

Yesterday I ran 14.0 miles in 1:57:30 7.1 mph for a pace of 8:23.6/mi. I believe I was getting stronger during the run with negative splits but my ankles were sore after. That would have been a 3:40 marathon pace, good for a training run. My route was hilly and I ran through Enfield, Longmeadow MA., East Longmeadow MA., Somers CT and back to Enfield.

Tuesday was a full moon which seems to effect my running.

Woke up and my ankles were tight. I decided to take the day off since I have run over 35 miles already this week and if I run tomorrow I may go over 50 miles total for the week. That would be the most weekly miles for 2009.

The Marine Corps Marathon site has a 3 D video course tour, http://www.marinemarathon.com/mcm_community/video_highlights/2009_Course_Tour.htm

if you know Washington at all you can easily see what you will be running by for each mile.

Pushing the Last 3 Days *

Sunday I ran 10.5 miles in 1:24:10 7.4 mph. I felt great and faster than I've felt in almost a week.

Monday I felt like I should take it easy so I ran 7.0 miles in 59:45 a 7.0 mph pace. My legs were a little sore so today I got up earlier and ran only 4.0 miles in 7.4 mph. I hope to run 13-14 miles tomorrow or Thursday and then take Friday off.

I have been signing up for at least 1 job a day for the past week. Tomorrow I will contact some companies to see if I can get an interview and I'm going to sign up foe a couple of classes.

Here is a link to a humble marathon experience, one I'm sure many of us have felt could happy when we either didn't prepare properly or went out waaay to fast. http://suburbanjournals.stltoday.com/articles/2009/07/07/stcharles/news/0708stc-pokin0.txt

Happy July 4th

Another cloudy day in CT. Although right now the sun is shining!

I ran 8.0 miles in 1:07:00, 7.1 mph an 8:22.5/mi. pace. I felt tired for the first 5 miles and I would have liked to run further but that was 42.4 miles for the week right in my target zone.

Just filled out another job application; that took longer than running 8 miles :(

Early Friday Run

I took yesterday off and ran today because Simone said it fit her schedule better than tomorrow. It worked out well for me because I thouhgt I needed to rest yesterday and I have been on a tear this week filling out job applications.

I ran 168.3 miles for the month of June, my second highest monthly total for the year so far.

Monday I ran 6.1 miles and Tuesday 7.1 miles. I was feeling good so Wednesday I went 10 miles and got back and my wifes' moms dog ran off so I ran at least another mile trying to run her down. I finally caught her after cornering her in a neighbors yard.

Today Simone and I ran 10.2 miles in 1:28:00 (6.9 mph) for a 8:37.6/mi. pace. That equates to a 3:46:11 pace for 26.2 miles. I believe that Simone can run that for most of the race and adding a minute per mile to the last 5 miles she can run a 3:52 for Hartford. This is what I am trying to have her aim for in October.

http://www.marathonguide.com/index.cfm has an article on Michael Wardian running the 100K World Championship, finishing 6th (6:40/mi. for 62 miles) and 7 days later running the Western States 100 and finishing 16th.

He ran the Vermont City one year when I ran and I got to see him in the first out and back.

Saturday Run with Simone

Simone wasn't able to run much this past week so we went 12.5 miles Saturday instead of the planned 14. But she is way ahead of her 1/2 marathon schedule we ran 2 years ago. 6.5 mph in 1:54:40. With Simones kick at the end of races I believe she is already able to run a sub-4 hour marathon. We have several runs of 14 miles or more planned and at least 1 20 miler.

I had a massage after the run which was a workout in itself so Shannon suggested I take today off.

My legs are a bit fatigued right now. Shannon suggested I get my feet up when I'm sitting.

Off to do more yard work.

Thursday Mostly Sunny *

6.1 mile run today in 48:24 7.6 mph.

I shortened my run because I was suppose to help a friend install windows BUT I received a call from one of my daughters that our van was leaking red fluid. The transmission is shot.

After a 21/2 hour ride I'm back home and the windows will have to wait for another day.

Tomorrow I'm off and I received an email from Simone that she wants to run 12 miles on Saturday.

This will be her longest of 2009.

Here is an article on the Mt. Washington RR, http://www.wickedlocal.com/georgetown/sports/x135725716/Four-Georgetown-residents-complete-Mt-Washington-Road-Race I think I will put my name in for a place next year.

Do you have a story to share about the race?

Another Drizzlely Day

Is it April or June? This must be the 20th day of rain this month.

I ran in the rain today again; 8.0 miles in 1:06 7.2 mph. My legs felt a little tired. I went to bed after midnightBad Boys II was on and I was waiting for my youngest daughter to get home. Iwoke up around 5:45. I'll have to work on them for tomorrow; I was hoping to run 7-8 miles again before taking Friday off.

A Day to Remember *

I ran 10.4 miles in 1:20 7.7 mph for a 7:41.5/mi. pace.

I felt like I did a few years ago; each time I felt a little tired I could push through it.

I drank water/Gatorade at 4, 6.5, 8.2 and at the end. It was overcast and a little humid and my legs felt great. Sitting here now nothing feels tight or sore.

I found out yesterday that my local FinishLine store collects for SolesforSouls, http://www.soles4souls.org/ They collect shoes which are still in good shape for needy people. I don't ever wear my shoes completely out and usually they look good too so I am going to start donating them.

Inspiration from Father's Day

I took Father's Day off after my long Saturday run. My left ankle hurt. Using the Prostretch was helping a lot and I used it 4 times yesterday.

Some of the family went to a graduation party, my daughter Tiffany graduated from high school this past week. One of her friends had the party. The co-valedictorians father has run the Marine Corp and the Boston Marathon about 10 times each in the 80s and it was interesting talking to him. He was much faster then than I am now and he sounds like he is still faster. He talked about meeting John Kelly, the younger, at his store in Mystic.

I mention this because it inspired me to run a little faster today. I would have probably taken it easier because of Saturday.

I went 7.1 miles in 58:18 a 7.3 mph pace 8:12 a mile.

I also signed up for the Drake Well Marathon, http://www.drakewellmarathon.com/ in Titusville PA in August because of the talk and because I have never run a marathon in August.

If I run all 3 I plan on running in the future, I will run 6 this year.

Happy Father's Day

I'm taking today off.

I usually try to run the day after a long run and I find it's counter productive.

Long Run

I ran 21.3 miles today in 3:03 a 6.9 mph pace. I was at 1:54 for 13.1 miles so I had a negative split; 8:42.1 for the 1st 13.1 miles and 8:24.8 for the next 8.2 miles.

I sat in cold water for a little over 10 minutes after.

I took gels at 7.2 miles, 13.2 miles and 18 miles. I had just enough to drink. When I got back I really needed some cold water. It was overcast and humid.

My back hurts a little on my left side and both of my gastrocnemius are fatigued but right now I feel good. I ran 46.4 miles for the week and over 110 mile for the month so far.

I purchased Dean Karnazes's book about 50 marathons in 50 days used from Amazon. I can't wait to start reading it. He is an amazing athlete.

Days Off

I took yesterday and today off since I hope to run 20+ miles on Saturday.

100K World Championships happen today; Michael Wardian leads US team, http://www.marathonguide.com/

Graduation Day

My youngest daughter graduates from high school today. It's been a tough year but I'm sure one she will never forget.

I ran 7.1 miles thia AM in 58:35 minutes a 7.3 mph pace. I felt good but will probably run a short distance tomorrow so I am set for a long run on Saturday.

Another Great Day of Running

I have found that 9-11 AM is an excellent time to run here in Enfield so I get up and go to Mass most mornings and run right after. This morning I ran 8.5 miles. It was another overcast day perfect for running. I tend to run too much and not watch my miles until my legs hurt so I was very aware today and kept the miles below 10. 8.5 miles in 1:11:35 at a 7.1 mph pace. I felt good after and my legs still feel good tonight.

I tried to volunteer with the Humane Society yesterday and after filling out the form was told not to contact them that they would let me know if they needed me. Today I tried to volunteer with the Food Shelf in town and was told they don't need me right now and to contact them at the end of August. It's tough being unemployed but now it seems I can't even volunteer.

I started learning Javascript today and I continue to look for work. I also try to network each day with different people to stay in touch and, hopefully, find someone who has a suggestion that will lead to work.

Today my son helped me out. I will follow up with his suggestions.

It's tough not working now for my marathon aspirations too. I would love to travel and run some marathons this Summer. I read on Marathonmaniacs.com and Twitter all the folks running marathons and I wish I could be there too.

Monday 2nd Day of My Week *

My legs were in some pain yesterday. I think I have been running too much on pavement. I don't really want to but I ran on the treadmill today. 4.1 miles in 40:46. It's hot in the gym and it's beautiful weather for running outside right now. CT is unseasonally cool in the 50-70 F range. I hope the low miles on the treadmill will help me run outside tomorrow with no pain after.

I started following "Froggie Ted Distance Runner", http://froggietedrunsboston.blogspot.com/2009/06/my-experience-with-brooks-hanson.html and he has an article on using a Brooks-Hanson training program for Boston. He set a PR. Here is the link to their site, http://www.hansons-running.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=63&Itemid=59 Ted said to use the beginner program and exlplains why in the above cited article.

Today I started putting an asterisk in my post title if I have links in the body of the post so I can quickly look them up later.

Rock Cats Sunday

Yes today we, my wife, Kelly, Sam, Katie and I went to see the Rock Cats in New Britian this afternoon. So after church I went for a 5.4 mile run. 7.7 mph in 42:08 a 7:48.1 pace. The shoes I worn are the ones I ran both Boston and VT City marathons. My right knee hurt a little this afternoon telling me that the shoes are probably done. I have a busy week coming up and I am planning to run over 20 miles next Saturday.

End of My Week

Saturday at 7 AM Simone and I took off for our 10 mile run. She said she was nervous but it didn't effect her running. Or maybe it helped. We drank our first drink at 4 miles with gel and gatorade/water mix at 6.2 miles. We stop to drink but not to take the gel. In the race I usually take the gel before the aid station so I only have to drink and go. We drank again at 8 miles and then at the end. The weather was perfect low 60's and mostly sunny.

We finished 10.0 miles in 1:28:10 for a 6.8 mph/8:49.0 pace. That equals a 3:50:59.8 26.2. Hopefully, she won't slow more than 5 minutes in the last 3 miles the toughest part of the Hartford Marathon.

She is definitely on schedule to run a sub 4 hour; I'm sure the times will bear this out when we run 16-20 mile runs. I have helped Simone with 1/2 marathons and she is a strong finisher.

I got a massage after. Thanks to Shannon Kuzel my legs feel GREAT!

Last week I went 40. 0 miles even with traveling; this week I only ran 31.6 miles but I had 2 10 mile runs.

Yesterday and Today *

Yesterday I ran 10.0 miles in 1:24:10. Legs felt a little tired at the end. I ate a lot the rest of the day. Today I ran 5.3 miles in 44:46. Same pace both days. I think the hills last week tore up my legs. Yesterday I had ice on them on and off for 2 hours.

I found an interesting article today titled "Running a marathon from the inside out." http://news.medill.northwestern.edu/chicago/news.aspx?id=133969 Clicking on the various points on the Chicago Marathon route discusses things to know at different stages of a marathon.

Off tomorrow with 10 miles planned for Saturday with Simone.

Back from Kentucky

The wedding trip my daughter Kelly and I took to and from Kentucky started Thursday AM and finished last night. I took Thursday off from running since we were traveling to Morgantown, WV and it was going to be a long day.

Thursday I ran around the WVU campus above the football stadium. Great view, really hilly! I only ran 3.5 miles on Friday but felt it was enough. On the way to Wilmore, KY we stopped at the Natural Bridge and hiked for about 2 hours. I'll post some pictures as soon as Kelly downloads them. We had supper downtown Lexington, KY at deSha's. Good food. They give you a loaf of corn bread which was delicious and I had a burbon barrel KY beer there than had hints of vanilla.

Next morning I ran in Wilmore, 5.25 miles 6.6 mph for 48 minutes. They have a path for about a mile just out of town and I got to explore some of the town too. We went back to Lexington to explore and ate lunch at the Cheapside Bar & Grill. There was a farmers market in the center of town next to the Cheapside.

The wedding was on Saturday at 4:00. I had never been to a Baptist wedding. It was beautiful. The wedding cake was chocolate. mmmm!!! After there was a live band at the town green. We stayed for about an hour and then went back to Lexington. The city has a real hometown feel to it. We will both miss going into town now that we are back home.

I took Sunday off and we traveled to Altoona, PA. We ate supper at Marzoni's Brick Oven & Brewing. Great whole wheat pizza and they had about 7 of their own brews. The 12 oz. were $2.35 and the 20 oz. were $3.25. The Stout, Maibock and IPA were great.

After we went to The Meadows for frozen custard. They have been around since 1950 and by the crowd there it will be around for another for at least another 50 years.

Next morning I ran from the Marriott into town. The Marriott is on an access road. I ran in neighborhoods just off of this road and then back to the parking lot of the motel to finish up. Still very hilly but I ran 6.3 miles in 55:53 for a 6.8 mph pace. I'm tired today and may take it off. I haven't decided yet.

National Running Day

I just couldn't get up this morning.

I had an appointment at Northwest Community College (NWCC) at 10:00 which is about an hour away. I planned on running after getting home. I checked out the Vet Tech program; they are the only CC in CT which offers it. I would love to do it but it will depend on a number of factors.

I came home and ran 8.2 miles in 1:08:30 at a 7.2 mph pace. My legs are shot! I have run too many days outside on the road. I was so charged up after seeing a friend running in Simsbury on my way home. We use to run at lunch 2 jobs ago. I loved my lunch time runs.

I'll take it easy this weekend and be ready to run long next week.

Tired Tuesday *

I woke up a little tired from yesterday. I'm not sure if it was the run or that I was up too late. Today started slow so I only went 5.3 miles in 44:57 a 7.1 mph pace. Tomorrow I have an appointment out of town but since it is National Running Day, http://www.runningday.org/ I'll try to run first thing in the morning.

I read an article in the NY Times "Better Running Through Walking" today, http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/02/health/02well.html?_r=1&hpw I actually ran my first marathon in NJ using the Galloway method of walking every so many minutes. I would run about 8 minutes and walk for a minute. I did this for the first 18 miles and then ran to the finish. It worked well. I came in, in about 4 hours with plenty of energy to finish, I didn't hit a wall. I used the method to help my ankles and it worked.

Now in my marathons I walk on the side as I drink at the aid stations which I feel is better than running through and drinking out of a cup. In training I drink from little bottles so I don't have a problem of choking which is why I started to walk at the aid stations.

Another good article in the NY times today, http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/03/sports/03marathon.html?_r=1&hpw

"First the Marathon Lottery, then the Pressure to Finish."

Last Three Days

Saturday I started to run again. The first day back my legs are usually a little stiff, ankles hurt, and muscles which I thought were healed complain. But I ran 4.3 miles in 34:09 a 7.5 mph pace.

I felt OK the rest of the day even though I cut the grass and worked in the garden for about 4 hours.

Sunday I ran with Simone. We went 7.1 miles at a 7.1 mph pace in 59:30.  The same distance as 2 weeks ago BUT 6 minutes and 20 seconds faster. I have a wedding to go to out of town this weekend so we will run 10 miles in 2 weeks.

Today I was going to take it easy but the day is so beautiful I decided to run longer. I ran 10.7 miles in 1:27:00 a 7.3 mph pace. I feel great. I have 2 leads to work on and a bunch of things to do today. 

I ran 151 miles for the month of May. A little low but I'll make it up this month. I wish I had a marathon to run this month. I've been toying with the idea of heading out West to run one. The flights seem cheap to Portland. I'll give it some thought. Any suggestions?

9-Year Old Finished the VCM *

The talk after the marathon last weekend was about a 9-year old finishing the race.

I've read that you should not run one until after you have finished growing. Here is an article on the marathoner, http://www.timesargus.com/article/20090529/SPORTS/905290340/1004/SPORTS

Running on the Web

Since I'm not running this week I figured I would write about some of the articles I have found today on the web.

http://www.run.com/ lists running routes around the world, including over 10,000 in the US.

http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/5/27/734765/-Zen-and-the-Art-of-Marathon-Training has an article titled "Zen and the Art of Marathon Training" an interesting read for anyone who thought than running a marathon was not for them.

http://www.marathonguide.com/index.cfm has a link that lists marathons in US and around the world and you can look up a friend or relative who has run a marathon since 2000.

I went to our local community college today to speak with Financial Aid for classes in the Fall.

I'm also looking into taking classes at NWCC to become a Vet Tech. Applied for 2 more jobs today too. Sox won today 3-1.

Day After Race

I'm not stiff or very sore this morning. I ran well yesterday and at a good pace but I don't think I pushed myself like I could have if I hadn't had so many problems in the last 2 weeks.

I do take 2 Tbs. of Spectrum lemon flavored cod liver oil each morning which does help to ease inflammation. Also I take 1500mg of Glucosamine and 1200 mg of Chondroitin Sulfate in one tablet daily. Since the NYC Marathon in 2007, I always take 8 hour 650 mg Tylenol about 1 hour before the race after eating a powerbar or a banana.

With all the puddles, different surfaces and the relay folks coming and going in the race it did feel like a steeplechase at times. I love running in the rain when it's warm like it was yesterday but I did go a little slower at times since I couldn't always see the road surface clearly.

I'll take it easy today, maybe take a short walk.

KeyBank Vermont City Marathon

It was a great day. We stayed in Essex Junction and rode in the back way on 7. No traffic! Usually there is lots of traffic when we come in from Williston. I had ww pasta and ww pizza for supper plus 2 beers and lots of water.

I saw a friend form my hometown Enfield, Al Garvey, who was running the 3 person relay with his daughter and son-in-law.

The race started and it rained on and off for the first 17 miles. Then it cleared up and the sun came out. I saw several Maniacs and talked to a few. I had a great time throughout.

Finished 507/2334 and 8/80 in my age group M5559. My time was 3:38:41.

The web site is very cool, http://www.runvermont.org/ if you put in my bib #2292 it'll give you all kinds of info like my average speed thoughout 7.2 mph, 8 min. 20 sec. and from the halfway to the end I passed 137 runners and 15 passed me. I started at 7.2 and ran between 8 min. 17 sec. and 8 min. 23 sec. the entire race.

I took PowerBar gel at mile 7, 11.7, 16.4, 20.8, and Gu chocolate at 22.8. The Powerbar is 1X caffeine.

I'll post pictures soon.

3 Days to Go

Vermont City Marathon is Sunday. I ran 3 miles today because I had to go to church, Acension Thursday, and I had to cut all the grass and take care of the garden.

There was a good article on why run marathons in the NY Times today, http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/05/21/the-marathon-a-race-like-no-other/?hp

I really love running in Burlington because everyone running helps me relax.

Trying to Take it Easy

I ran 4 miles yesterday and 5.1 today.

I did work in the garden for about 4 hours yesterday and after that I saw 2 of my grandkids play baseball. The gardening tired me out and I went to bed early.

I saw my chiropractor today for a tune up for the race.

A shout out to ginaharris1 who I follow on Twitter. She is running the Newport Oregon Marathon on May 30. It's her first! Go Gina!!!

I Still Feel Good!

My plan is to just run on the treadmill this week. Hopefully the softer surface will keep me feeling good. I'm seeing my chiropractor on Wednesday morning for a last tune-up before Sunday.

My legs felt a little tired after the 5.1 miles today but rebounded after eating something.

Right now they are predicting partly sunny and temperatures in the low 70s for Sunday. A little warm but it sounds like a great day to run.

No Pain!!!

After seeing Shannon yesterday all my pain has disappeared!

She used needles and performed massage for about an hour and 40 minutes.

Massage and acupunture is amazingly therapeutic.

Today I ran 10.5 miles in 1:26:10 at 7.3 mph and even tonight I don't have any pain. I can't explain how much pain I had last week. Why doesn't insurance pay for massage? It makes no sense to me.

VT City is my 20th marathon. I'm going to have a FUN time and enjoy every minute of it!

Sunny Saturday

Simone and I ran 7.3 miles in 1:05:50 for a 6.7 mph pace. She wasn't able to run this week so we tried to maintain her training without injury and with a positive attitude. Attitude and mental strength are very important to a successful marathon. She continues the push-ups and crunches.

I ran about 32 miles for the week. 

I saw Shannon today for acupuncture and massage. The psoas muscle is part of my problem. The nerves have contributed to my numbness. Here is a link to exercises if you have these same symptoms, http://www.touchpoint.dk/UK_artikler_psoas.htm

Here is a good link on when to replace your running shoes from the Greater Boston Run Co. (I follow them on Twitter), http://running.about.com/od/shoesapparelandgear/f/replaceshoes.htm

Sciatica Comes and Goes

I'm having some problems with sciatica in my left leg. I use to have it in my right leg but that hasn't happened in over a year. 

I ran 6.2 miles today on the treadmill in just over an hour. I alternated running 6.0 and 6.2 mph after warming up at 5.8 mph for 2 miles.

It's funny but the sciatica does not bother me when I am running or walking. It especially hurts when I sit in a stuffed chair. I've been using wooden chairs and laid on the floor 1/2 the night and it seems to have helped; the pain is almost gone again like Monday.

I'll take tomorrow off except I need to roto-till the garden some.

A Day Off

My sciatica had me up at 3 AM sooo I decided that it was probably a good day to not run to help my running. I got the bike out, pumped up the tires and rode 33+ miles in 2:28:00 at 13.1 mph. I'm not sure if this is good or not but it did help. 

I'll see how my night is before deciding if and how far I will run tomorrow.

Tuesday

I'm back in the gym. 5.1 miles. It's hot now in the gym, I seem to sweat more than outside. My right knee hurt today. I'm glad I didn't run outside I needed a change in surface. I have been running in older shoes inside and worn an older pair outside yesterday too. I think that may be why my knee hurt. 18.3 miles so far this week. I should be tappering again this week and next for VT City.

Following all the runners on Twitter is good. I enjoy reading about their daily routines.

An interesting article and an idea which I am using with Simone training for Hartford is http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/lifestyle/chi-0510-marathonmay10,0,7182820.column titled "Run Faster. Run Less? For marathon training less can be more. Experts say." A book on the subject has been published by the Furman Institute of Running, http://www.furman.edu/first/

Monday

I only ran 4.1 miles today but I ran in 32:42, 7.5 mph.

My son went home this morning so I didn't want to be off running. I ran in older Nike Max Moto 6 and they felt fine for the distance.

Moved my daughter Kelly back home today from UConn. She'll get over her boy friend; it'll just take a little time. His loss!!!

The garden is really dry; tomorrow I may have to water it.

I hope this recession ends soon so I can get a job. Had my meeting with the DOL today and will receive $ this week. A job offer would be better :-)

My sciatica is just about gone. The stretching and the slower running helped get rid of it. Also it just takes a little time.

Latest Musings

The sciatic nerve in my left leg has been giving me trouble. It's been hard to sit or lie down in bed for 4 days. It doesn't hurt to run but most of the day is spent sitting.

On Thursday I ran 6.1 miles on the treadmill and I took Friday off as usual.

Saturday I ran with Simone 7.1 miles in 1:02:10 for a 6.7 mph pace. Another mile at the same pace as last week. Good progress. She will not be able to run much this week so we'll see  if 8 miles is too much on Saturday.

After running we went to my daughter Kelly's commencement for her Masters in Education at UConn. The whole family is very proud of her accomplishments.

Today her boy friend of 4+ years broke up with her. The highs and lows of being 20 something. We all feel bad but hope this does not dampen her spirits. We love her soooo much!

Today I ran 9.1 miles thinking of Kelly most of the run. My sciatica seems better tonight. It was a good run in 1:15:15 at a 7.2 mph pace.

Hopefully, I'll get a good night sleep and be 100% tomorrow.

My son came from Raleigh for the weekend which made it extra special. As I mentioned earlier, we will run the Marine Corp Marathon in October.

It's Wednesday

I woke up with a stiff right shoulder/neck so I decided that the treadmill was best today.

I took it easy and ran 5.2 miles.  

I get a Google alert on marathons and found 2 interesting links especially if you are a first time marathoner. The links are http://www.runnersworld.com/subtopic/0,7123,s6-238-244-255-0,00.html (45 articles from Runners World) and http://www.marathonandbeyond.com/choices/emmett.htm (from Marathon and Beyond). I subscribe to both magazines. Every month they have excellent articles.

May Showers?

Today it rain or drizzled most of the day. I was laying in bed not wanting to run on the treadmill when my son called. We talked a while and when I hung up I thought I would run outside. I have been wanting to run in the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 8's again and since I talked to Simone on Saturday I have been thinking that the firmer shoes might help my hips. I ran 8 miles in 1:07:10 a 7.1 mph pace. My lower legs hurt more with the Brooks shoes but I feel like I can go faster.

However, I ran 10.8 miles on Sunday and 5.1 yesterday so my legs feel a bit beat up.

I have a good lead on a job. I'll send my resume out tomorrow.

Unemployment gives me almost too much time to run. I need to be careful. Over 24 miles in 3 days is a little too much especially since most of the miles have been on the road. The changing surfaces do really help my legs.

Sorry about the pictures; I'll enlarge them so you can actually see me :-)

Started Training Simone for Hartford

It was a beautiful morning to run. Simone came at 7:30.

I had to convince her to run the full marathon not the 1/2 but she is more than ready to give the full a try. I think she can run a sub-3:45 but we'll see as training progresses.

I suggested she buy the following: Amphipod hydration belt, http://www.amphipod.com/ a second pair of shoes and get use to taking gels as soon as we run over 7 miles.

I've used other belts and this brand seems like it might last the longest.

I suggested too that she go to a professional running store and see what they felt were the best type of shoes for her. Lastly, I said incorporating Pilates in her exercise and stretching would help her running. Here are some good workouts on YouTube, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fdMptxZv4hQ

We ran 6.1 miles at 6.7 mph in 54:38. I thought it was a great beginning.

I ran an additional 5.4 miles at 7.0 mph for a total of 11.5 miles and 44.3 miles for the week.

My back feels a lot better today after taking yesterday off.

Week in Review

I ran well this week despite a pain in my lower left back. It doesn't hurt to run but I feel it when I start out. Miles since Monday: Tuesday 5.5, Wednesday 6.2 and Thursday 10.4. Ran every other day outside. Off today and tomorrow I'll run with a friend, Simone, who I'm helping prepare for the Hartford Marathon, http://www.hartfordmarathon.com/marathonnew.htm in October. This is a very fast Boston qualifier; one everyone should consider if you want to qualify.

I'll post a couple of pictures from Boston soon.

I'm Back Running

Yesterday I ran 6.2 miles in 50 minutes. It was about 90 degrees. Yes it's April and about 25 degrees above normal.

Today I ran at the gym; 4.5 miles. My legs feel really good. I didn't have any of the soreness I usually have after the first day back after a marathon.

I was in the garden a lot last week and I used a foam roller on my legs twice a day.

I think the warm weather yesterday actually helped my legs. I iced them last night watching the Red Sox.

Resting

I haven't run since the race on Monday but I wanted to write since one of the people I follow on Twitter, @theanarunner, had a link to a good article on advice for running a marathon. The link is herehttp://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2009/apr/24/london-marathon-professional-tips

The London Marathon is tomorrow. You can read about it at http://www.marathonguide.com/index.cfm?

I'll probably start running again tomorrow or Monday when most of the soreness leaves my legs.

Boston Marathon

This was my 4th and my second fastest.

My daughter Kelly and my friend Ruth brought me to Hopkinton.

I sat on the bus with Mark from Toronto. He ran a 3:10 last year and hoped to run faster and qualify for New York. I asked him about the Toronto Marathon and he said the Toronto Waterfront Marathon was very fast and a beautiful course.

Corral 12 was next to the last in the first wave. My bib # was 12780.

It was a great day weather-wise. I tried to be conservative on the down hills and ran slower through mile 12. My legs felt good.

It was awesome having my name on my shirt; 1000s of people yelled my name and twice at the colleges 15-20 people were shouting Keith, Keith, Keith again and again. Very inspiring!

I ran with my cousin Candi's husband Bob for parts of the first 9 miles. He came in at 3:32:01 and I came in at 3:38:04. Both were great times considering he is 50 and I am 57.

But in comparison, I have a 28 year old friend who is a great runner and he ran a 2:37:59 which I think is the fastest marathon ever for him, a PR in Boston Nice!!!, 143 overall and a 6:02 pace.

Very special. I don't think you have to be a runner to appreciate the speed at which he ran 26.2 miles. In my book he is an elite runner and certainly a very special individual.

After Kelly, Ruth and I ate at Legal Seafood. 

Then we took the Green Line back to Riverside in Newton (exit 22).

Tomorrow... Tomorrow

I ran 3.1 miles Friday so I would only have 2 days off.

TOMORROW my 4th Boston. I'm as excited this year as I was in 2006.

My legs ache a little; I think it's because I took 2 days off in a row. The last time I did that was after the Houston Marathon in January.

28.6 miles for the week after 40.4 last week.

The weather is suppose to be good until about 3. I hope the winds are calm until then for everyone.

At the Expo I met people from LA, Alaska, and Tennessee. Good times and the best Expo of any marathon. My daughter Julie went with me and it was fun talking and walking around Boston.

I just wish I could go to sleep now and wake up and it would be time to go to the race.

I read in the Globe the story about the 2 guys that have run 41 and 42 consecutive Bostons. Amazing!

Until tomorrow. Cheers!!!

Tapering II

The last 3 days I've run 5.1, 4.1 and 5.4 miles. 

Today I ran outside instead of on the treadmill because I felt I needed one more day on the road. I will run tomorrow since I am taking Sat/Sun off for Boston on Monday.

The latest forecast was for rain later in the day. Hopefully, most everyone will be done before it starts.

I like running in the rain but I don't like standing around before the race, cold and wet.

I'm SOOO excited to feel good and to be able to run another Boston.

I am truly blessed.

Really Tapering

4 days to lay-off. 7 days til the marathon. 

Today I went to Asnuntuck CC and I think I am going to sign up for a certificate program for web design. At least it's a plan. I must admit that Boston is on my mind all the time right now.

It's funny how non-marathon runners just don't understand.

So tapering...Sunday I ran 6.3 miles in 48:47 a 7.6 mph pace. Today I ran on the treadmill for 4.6 miles. I'll take it easy this week but since I don't run more than 50 miles my legs are in good shape. This is my 4th Boston in a row and I am beginning to understand what I need to do for my best run. I just hope I listen to myself and don't get carried away by the crowd. This definitely happened last year. The Globe marathon blog today was very helpful.

Tapering?

Well I ran 40.4 miles this week which doesn't seem like I'm tapering since I average somewhere in the 40's most weeks. But I did take it easy and I have found since I don't beat myself up I need to keep going until the week before the race so my legs will take the 26.2 miles well.

I had another massage today which was great as usual. Shannon never disappoints.

Tuesday - Thursday I ran 5.4, 4.1, and 6.0 miles respectively. After taking Friday off I ran 10.6 miles in 1:23:10 at 7.5 mph for a 7:50.8/mi. pace.

I had a few pains in my legs and gluts this week and my intestines were slightly painful to the touch. I'm not sure why but none of it seemed to effect my running.

I'm aiming for 8:00 minutes per mile in Boston; I have gone below this in my 3 of my last 4 longer runs of 11.2, 10.3 and 10.6 miles but my 14.6 mile run was at 8:18/mile.                                                 I think on race day I could fall somewhere in between 3:30 and 3:37 BUT Boston is tough.

I'm aiming for about 30 miles this week and then off on Saturday and Sunday. I hope to run on Friday which I usually take off but I don't want to take 3 days off in a row unless I'm hurting.

I posted a few links on Twitter  about advice on marathon dayhttp://www.salemnews.com/pusports/local_story_099002455.html?keyword=topstory, news/video on Kara Goucher (Flocasts) and news/video on Ryan Hall (WBZ). Twitter me @keithal2.

Rainy Days

I can't believe I haven't written anything in almost 2 weeks.

I ran well on Wednesday and Thursday BUT on Saturday I ran 11.2 miles at 7:30.4 mile pace.

That's the fastest I've run in over a year. I felt GREAT!!!

I got a massage after; only the 2nd time in over 2 months.

Last week I ran well, my usual 5-6 miles per day during the week.

This weekend I ran 14.6 miles at 7.3 mph in 2:01:10 on Saturday. Then I spent the day at St. Joe's college in West Hartford. My youngest daughter will be a student there in the Fall. The people were amazing; my wife and I get very good feeling about the school and we both feel Tiffany will love it there.

Sunday I didn't feel like running right away so after Mass my oldest daughter and I went to Panera's and I had a few cups of 1/2 decaf and 1/2 reg black coffee.

I went out for an easy 7 miler and enede up running 10.3 miles at 7.6 mph in 1:20:10 for a 7:47 pace. I didn't drink anything for about 6 miles. I would like to incorporate some caffeine in my pre-race drink; I feel I could run faster throughout the race.

After I rototilled the garden for about 1 1/2 hours. At that point I was done in.

My legs were tired. I took a cold water bath for 10 minutes and later used ice on my legs.

I felt better this morning and race an easy 4.0 miles.

I've been reading the latest Runner's World about Kara Goucher and the Boston Marathon.

There is a video of Kara running a 20 mile training run on the marathon course at http://www.flotrack.org/videos/coverage/view_video/234839-2009-boston-marathon/166451-kara-on-the-boston-course

Feeling Great

I feel really great after ruuning this weekend.

The last 2 marathons and the last 2 long runs over 20 miles I have felt stronger after the 13 mile mark.

I hope this happens in Boston.

I'm getting a massage this Saturday. It has been so long since the last one I don't even remember when it I received it. This will only be the second one in the last 2 months +.

As for running this week: 

3/23 4.0 miles

3/24 5.4 miles

3/25 7.3 miles.

I have a job interview on Friday and I got confirmation and a request for additional info for another job. So things are looking OK right now.

What's Up?

I'm going to get a massage next Saturday!

I don't have the money but I will find a way to pay for it.

Massage is only for people who are well off!

Running marathons used to be for the masses but now it is for the well to do just like college!

I can run local marathons but I can't run 50 states without a much better job.

The last few days I ran the following in preparation for Boston:

March 16 6.3 miles

March 17 5.2 miles

March 18 4.0 miles 

March 19 5.2 miles 

March 20 OFF

March 21 21.3 miles

March 22 OFF

I ran 21.3 miles in 2:59:19 yesterday at 7.1 mph. I felt good and the last 2 training runs and the last 2 marathons I have felt stronger after 14 miles. Running over 20 miles at least once a month is definitely good for me.

This last week I ran 52.6 miles the most of any week in 2009.

I'm on course to run at least 190 miles this month.

Less than 4 weeks before I'm unemployed ;-( I applied for 2 jobs last week and I have leads for about 7 jobs to apply for this week.

If you know of any jobs, that I can apply for let me know. Thanks!

Tough Week

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday I ran 4.2, 5.0 and 5.1 miles. I took Friday off and I had to run 11.0 miles on the treadmill on Saturday. 

My right big toe hurts; it feels like it is out of joint. Actually, my whole right leg is too tight. 

I did run 43.3 miles last week after running 47.0 miles the week before. Those are good totals for me.

Sunday I ran 10.6 miles at 7.0 mph outside on the roads. I do miss running outside.

I know if I could see Shannon she would fix my problems in 2 weeks :-(

Today I ran 6.3 miles on the treadmill; the way my right foot is I'm not sure I can run 26.2 miles.

I need help.

Boston Preparation

On Wednesday and Thursday I ran 7.4 and 5.5 miles. After taking Friday off I was ready for a great weekend.

On Saturday the weather was beautiful and I was able to run 16.1 miles. My left ankle bothered me some but I ran it in 2:10:00 at a 7.4 mph pace. I had to keep myself from running and further.

On Sunday I went out at 11:45 and I ran 12.5 miles in 1:41:30 for a 7.4 mph pace again.

That was the best weekend in months. 

On Saturday afternoon I worked on my legs on and off and they felt great by the time I started to run on Sunday.

I use a lot of tips that Shannon has taught me and even my left hamstring is feeling better.

Today I was back on the treadmill. 

After running in the 2 different pairs of Nike Air Max Moto 6 on the weekend I switched back to the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 8s. The combination seems to distribute the tightness in my legs so I can keep running every day but Friday.

Winter is Still Holding On

Saturday I ran 11.0 miles outside. I have been able to run outside again on weekends.

After finding out a lay-off is in my future I needed to get out and run.

Sunday I ran 10.8 miles; I figured I would take Monday off since it was going to snow all day.

Today I was back I the gym but since I work from 12-4 now I ran 7.2 miles on the treadmill.

I will have to make sure I don't ramp up my miles too fast with more time to run.

My legs feel OK.

Deja Vu

The week started off OK. I ran 3.3, 5.2 and 4.2 miles Monday thru Wednesday after taking Sunday off.

I probably neede more time off because my legs don't feel great today, although I took today off.

Thursday I ran 5.0 miles and felt great running fast on the treadmill. 

At 3 O'Clock my boss wanted to talk to me in one of our conference rooms. YEH I know I was thinking the same thing!

My last day will be April 17 unless the housing industry takes a DRAMATIC turnaround!!!

Boston Marathon weekend. Well at least I lasted until April this year.

The WORST thing is I won't be able to see Shannon any more. 

I really need her advice and a MASSAGE :-(

I have been feeling good so I guess I'll take it somewhat easy tomorrow; I know that would be best.

A Rare Sunday Off

Yesterday I ran 22.2 miles in 3:09:40 at 7.0 mph for a pace of 8:32.6/mi.

I felt good and had to stop myself from running further.

A good strategy for me is to run at least 20+ miles once a month. It helps to keep my legs marathon ready.

Today I took OFF.

Hopefully tomorrow my legs will feel good enough to run 4-5 miles.

A Beautiful Weekend in Connnecticut

I was Off on Friday.

Today I ran 22.2 miles in 3:09:40

I find that running at least 20 miles each month helps me to stay in marathon fitness.

It was sunny, windy but I ran 7.0 mph for the entire run.

Shannon had an accident on Thursday and she left a brief message for me on Friday BUT I haven't talked to her about. I was told she is OK. I have called several times but now her mailbox is full.

I hope to see her next Saturday but I am having a problem with my cash flow ;-)

I have learned a lot from Shannon. I incorporate it in my daily routine. At 57 I feel blessed that she has helped me SO much! I'm not sure if she ever reads this BUT if she does I need to acknowledge that I would have not run any marathons without her and I would not run as well without her help.

I wish that she could help more potential runners! I could list everything she has done for me here but it would not reach many runners.

There were over 30 folks from Nerac on Friday. I had a great time; I felt that it was a family at Nerac which doesn't happen often at a company and I am genuinely interested in their families now; one of my friend's son is running the State Open relay in the 1600 today; he is an excellent runner and passionate about running; he will some day achieve national recognition; his Uncle was a sub-3:00 marathoner for years and he his has followed in his footsteps. His grandfather ran strong races into his 60's. I LOVE RUNNERS AND RUNNING. 

I hope David is back to running and setting his sights on a PR!!!!

I find YOU inspirational!

  

Winter is Passing, the Snow is Going

I ran inside on the 11th and 12th, 5.4 miles and 4.2 miles. I usually wake up between 4-5 AM and get up stretch and do push-ups and crunches. I then go to the gym. After taking Firday OFF,  I ran 15.0 miles in 2:04:45 on Saturday and 7.2 miles on Sunday outside. It felt like old times; I know what I'm missing running on the treadmill. I LOVE the freedom of running outside.

The rest of the week went like this:

Feb 16 4.0 miles 40:15

Feb 17 4.1 miles 39:48

Feb 18 4.0 miles 39:15

Feb 19 4.1 miles 38:58

My legs were tight and hurt at the beginning of the week, but today they felt GREAT!

I'll take tomorrow off and I hope to run over 20 miles on Saturday. I'm going out with old friends from Nerac on Friday.

I'll write again this weekend.

HAPPY RUNNING!!!

February is Flying Bye Bye

So far this month I have run the following:

Feb 1   7.2   miles  1:10:40

Feb 2   4.6  miles      44:40

Feb 3   4.3  miles      40:26

Feb 4   5.4  miles      50:39

Feb 5   5.1  miles      46:28

Feb 6   OFF

Feb 7  10.0 miles  1:30:10

Feb 8   8.6  miles  1:22:32

Feb 9   4.4  miles     42:30

Feb 10 4.4  miles     40:27

All the miles were run on the treadmill. I really have a hard time running faster and running longer (over 10 miles) on a treadmill. But my legs feel better running a little slower and on a softer surface. It might help me run better outside in the Spring. I hope to run 3-4 marathons in the Spring and then another 3-4 in the Fall. The ice is finally melting; I hope to run outside on the weekend. My son Keith and my grandson Jalen will be here over the weekend.

Since the Marathon

I only took 5 days off to recover from the marathon. I felt REALLY good and ran the following in the last week:

4.0   miles  Jan 24

5.2   miles  Jan 25

4.0   miles  Jan 26

5.5   miles  Jan 27

3.2   miles  Jan 28

4.4   miles  Jan 29

OFF            Jan 30

10.3 miles  Jan 31

32.6 miles for he week and 135.5 miles for the month of January.

My left ankle is not feeling as good as I would like even though I did see Shannon yesterday and she worked on me for over 11/2 hours.

I am going to go to the gym now to see how it feels.

Chevron Houston Marathon

I have never run a good January marathon. In Phoenix and Miami I had problems with my left ankle and cramps in my left calf.

I was trying to decide which shoes to wear for a week - Nike Air Max Moto or Brooks Adrenaline GTS8. I was picturing the elite women at the 2008 NYC marathon and so many worn Nikes. The roads in Houston are concrete so I went with the shoe with the most cushioning, the Nikes.

I woke up at 2, 3, and 4 AM the morning of the race. I got up at 4:20, stretched and dressed.

We left at 5 for Houston, Annemarie, Tiffany, Nancy, and me. I was excited; not nervous at all.

At the Expo center we waited inside. It was probably in the upper 40's. My digestion had not been too good since the flight but last night before Mass I had a lot of whole wheat pasta. It helped so much that morning. I stopped drinking water by 6:15.

I used the porta potties a second time and off to the start at 6:35. It took a while to get to the start (12 minutes?) so it was about 10-12 minutes before the race. I felt like I was back a little too far but OK. When the gun went off I felt good.

The first mile was a little slow with a city smell which lasted until mile 3. My speed went up from 6.6 to 7.2 mph. Then to 7.6 by mile 5-6. I finally peaked at 8.0 mph on my watch. I did have to stop and use the porta potty for about a minute.

I then fell off to 7.8 mph from about mile 9 to the end.

They were calling out our pace; I was at 8:06 for most of the race; 8:07 at mile 20 and 8:08 at mile 24.

They had our names printed on the bib; hundreds of people called my name!

The last 8 miles I passed several people; at one point I went past 5-7 people at once. Only 2 younger guys passed me in all that time up to the finish.

I felt strong until the end; I was talking and clapping to the music at times; the bands were second only to the ING NYC Marathon.

Afterwards, they had us go back inside for breakfast; this is the first time I had eggs and sausage after a race. They gave you the metal, finishers tee shirt and mug.

I had the best time and met up with Annemarie and Tiffany after eating.

I wish I lived closer, I would run this every year. The course is almost as flat as advertised.

Gold's Gym

I'm not a fan of running inside on a treadmill. BUT my feet, ankles and legs do not hurt unless I go and run twice in a day. I did get outside on Saturday the 3rd for a long run. Here is my runs for January so far:

Jan 1 OFF

Jan 2 3.2 miles 28:43

Jan 3 14.2 miles 1:57:10 (outside)

Jan 4 7.1 miles 1:03:08

Jan 5 5.3 miles 47:31

Jan 6 OFF

Jan 7 4.0 miles 35:29 AM 5.0 miles 45:04 PM total 9.0 miles 1:20:33

Jan 8 5.4 miles 48:46

I just haven't run the really long runs I needed to have a great race in Houston. At least 2 runs over 20 miles would have done it. On the bright side my legs feel great. On the 14.2 mile run my ankles didn't hurt until near the end. If Texas has concrete roads I will need to run in the Nike Air Max to help my ankles; if not, I would like to run in the Brooks GTS 8's.

It's great just to be running another marathon and friends and family will be there to cheer me on. I have never been to Texas so that will be cool too!