Going Long

Another 20 today. I felt great and did extra hill work during run. 2 hills which use to be hard for me I ran relatively easy. My blood pressure is low when I don't take more than 1 day off. BP reading is very good after long run.

July 4 2016

11.1 miles 9 days after the cat 50k. I feel good after the run. I have to run an avg. of 5.2 miles for 12 hours for the 100k.

Catamount Ultra 50k

I had a lot of fun! 2 laps and some hills and technical terrain but it was a nice course. Waterbury is a place to have several Beer Advocate 100 rated beers and I bought a Lawson Session #2 low alcohol beer for the night before the race. 4:17:20 61/113. I was 1st in my age group, 1/5, and  I passed 8 people on the 2nd lap and I did not get passed at all.
I did start too fast and that and the heat got to me after mile 26.

Young Minds

So I had to take 4 days off since I over did it last week. I ran 6.2 miles today in the Vanquish 2 since they are softer and stress the upper legs more. I felt fine and will get acupuncture tomorrow.

2015 Vs. 2016 Mileage

          2015            2016
Jan    172.2           189.0
Feb   169.0           141.3
Mar  147.4           142.1
Apr  109.5           113.1
May 119.8           150.1

I feel stronger this year and I will be running loner races with several BQs.

Vermont City and Beyond

The 2016 VT City was hot.  My first hour was great but as the temperature rose ir was tough to keep up the pace. After mile 16 I did feel the heat. I was on a 3: pace but as I cramped up by mile 22 I has to settle for a 4:01:42 which was 3/64 in my age group. A surprise to me but I did feel great most of the race. A Shout out to all the support and to the volunteers! Water sprays everywhere!!!
I do have 2 suggestions for the race committee:
No pacers and start the race at 7 AM.
This is still one of my favorite races at any distance, way more positives than negatives.

2 Weeks Til VT Marathon

I run all my miles in the Hoka Odyssey right now. Excellent shoe. 40.7 miles so far this week.
After bodywork massage last night 9.2 miles today after work and I feel great tonight. Cc does great work! 655 miles so far this year. VT will be fun and I hope to run 300 miles in 2 months.

Post Boston, Pre -VT City

14 miles tonight after work. My legs feel great!

Boston 2016

Negative splits! My #24595 and overall I was 18029 with a pace of 9:23.
I went by a lot of people the last 9 miles and I felt great at the finish.

Excited About Running Boston

After 2 sessions of massage bodywork and 3 sessions of acupuncture bodywork I am feeling much better. I have been running well 3 of the past 4 days and I'm excited about Boston. Not sure what shoes to wear yet.

Boston Taper

Well I didn't plan to take 4 days off but left foot not feeling it right now. Today driving the bus I discovered that the Hoka Bondi 4 is not a good shoe for me even to walk in or drive the bus. My left foot was killing me so I took the shoe off and pain eased. I was able to run 9.4 miles after work and felt fine in the Hoka Vanquish 2. Icing foot and I now feel I will be ready for Boston. This will be the eleventh in a row and I have already qualified for 2017.
The trail run did not help Boston and I will think about running a road marathon 4 weeks before next years Boston.
Ball of foot still hurts but I will run in the Conquest 2 to try to fix it in the next 10 days.

Tapering for Race

I'm not feeling it right now. Left big toe not 100 percent. Low salt diet for BP not helping my digestion or running. Odyssey a great shoe but I will probably run in the Challenger. Also right hamstring too tight at first for about a mile into the run the past 4 days. Hopefully, I can run OK and fix any problems when Cecilia returns from her trip.

Hoka Vanquish 2

I ran a double today 7.2 miles this early AM in 1:06 and 7.4 miles in the rain this PM. Actually it started to rain for my last 1.2 miles this morning too. Both runs were in the Hoka Vanquish 2. Plush upper sock-like feel. lighter than the Conquest 2 and my legs feel great tonight.

Hoka Odyssey

Just started running in the Hoka Odyssey tonight after work. So far, I love it! Firm and light, about 8.8 oz., 5 mm offset. Will run in it more this week.

Rare Day Off

I was able to run 14.5 miles today on the Rail Trail since I took the day off to be with my son and grandson Jalen, but they weren't able to come due to car problems so I got to go for a long run instead.
I felt the massage last night would help my run and still be of maximum benefit. I feel great right now.

Mid-Maryland 50k Grand Master Champion

Number pick-up was smooth and Philip was helpful and enthusiastic.

Directions were spot on and the weather was clear and cold.

After the 1st lap it seemed like a mini VT50, technical and varied terrain. 

A lot of people only went 3 or 4 laps,  laps needed for a 50k. I loved the chocolate chip muffins and Powerbar chocolate gel. I had pizza after the 3rd lap. I felt great except lap 4. 

I tripped 2xs, after the 2nd I felt like my back and shoulders were out of place. 

The last lap I passed several runners and I wanted to run sub 6 hours.  Next to last hill I was at 5:55 and I finished 5:59:18 in in AG, RRCA Mid-Maryland 2016 Grand Master Champion.

Food after was great! Hot soup and hot pizza! Timing spot on Bling, half zip, metal and magnet for $55.

Unique Double for 2016

Well I woke up at 3:35 and was trying to decide if I should run due to the snow. I was wide awake so I got up and put spikes in my shoes. My wife woke and said I could plow instead of running. I said I would run a short one and plow after. It was still snowing when I left. 4.1 miles run.
I got back home and all the lights were on and my wife was shoveling the snow. I joined her but said we should plow. Our electric plow did great and we were soon done.
This afternoon it was warmer and sunny and I ran 4.1 again 3 minutes faster.

Two Long Runs

I ran 10.2 miles yesterday and 12.4 today. 51 for the week.
I had to get a massage at the Massage School,The Massage School since Cecilia was out of commission. Erin was great and she actually goes to Cecilia for massages too.
My blood pressure this morning was 126/75 the lowest it has been in years.
Great weekend, I do miss being off to run every weekend.

Roll with It

Storm for Saturday maybe 18-22" of snow in Delaware for race. The director said "don't be stupid" to come so I'm going to do a couple longer runs Friday and Saturday.
CC fell down the stairs so I can't get a massage from her tonight. I just hope she is OK with no lasting effects.
Three sessions of acupuncture three days in a row; I definitely feel different I'll see what long term effects might be.
Trying hard to lower stress.
Definitely a different week.

Another Double

Today I ran 6.8 AM and 6.2 PM. This is the ninth time in a month I have run a double. I hadn't done this in 10 years. Lots of energy right now.

AM Run

I love early morning runs. 8.1 miles starting at 3:45. 11 degrees F at start. Glasses kept fogging up.

Dr. Kate Klemer

I had an appointment with Kate today. Helped with my supplements and tested my flexibility. Suggested I start meditation (20 minutes in morning), continue Yoga and said my right kidney was tired. She performed Craniosacral Biodynamic therapy on me which helped loosen my left sacral area.

Monthly totals for 2015

1. January       172.2
2. February     169.0
3. March         147.4
4. April           109.5
5. May            119.8
6. June            135.9
7. July            103.7
8. August       141.6
9. September 121.4
10. October       92.7
11. November   90.0
12. December 184.7

Acupuncture + massage have boosted my energy and my overall health.

Starting the New Year Off Right

18.7 miles on the Rail Trail today in 2:55:36 with the last mile at 8:33/mi.
A little tight right now but lots of help next week to stay loose.

End of 2015

8 miles tonight to finish with the highest monthly total since 2010. Mostly due to CC's help. Each week she alerted me to what was either weak or too tight. I would work on it and keep running. Looking forward to 2016.

AM Run

Out @ 4:10 5.8 miles. A little icy with snow on side of road. I use La Sportiva screw-in screws,
Chiodo AT Grip. You can run on ice with just 3 or 4 in strategic places on outer sole.

Massage and Acupuncture

Massage last night and acupuncture tonight. Yes I am feeling mellow.

Big Week

61.2 total miles this week. Just back from 18 miles on the Rail Trail. Kudos to the people who maintain our rail trail. It is in awesome shape. Today was the second time in 3 days I had to stop myself from running and further. My energy is soaring!

Merry Christmas!

Looking back this may have been my best running year ever. Thanks to all who made it so.
Merry Christmas.

I Feel soo Light!

I switched it up this afternoon and ran 11 miles. I felt so light I could have run all night if I had enough food and drink. I may try running from 2-5 AM this winter just to see how I feel.

Loving AM Runs!

Clear and cool this morning for a 6 mile run. Read about UTMB in Trailrunner and I want to go!

2 Runs Today

5.8 miles from 4-5 AM and 6.2 miles 3:30-4:30 PM. CC, Katie and Rachel have me feeling like superman. 41.1 miles 2 weeks after a 10+ BQ. This has been my best running year and I am SO looking forward to 2016.
I am seeing Dr. Kate Klemer in Jan. to help with my core. Cecilia CC Major my bodywork star suggested I see her when my sacroiliac popped out. I'm excited that I will see her and I know that my running will improve. Yes 2016 will be another year to look back on as a great, maybe, breakthrough year.
STRENGTHEN your ADDUCTORS for speed!!!

3:30 AM 8.3 Mile Run

Awesome morning run! Stars everywhere! 8.3 miles is the most I have run in a long time early in the morning. We have seen coyotes even in the neighborhood so I am on the alert when I run early. 9:02/mi. is really good for me when I run early. I have noticed that I run faster in the afternoon. It was a colder morning, temperature around 35 F when I started.
CC my bodywork specialist said I had weak adductors and I have been working on the 5 adductor muscles in each leg. It is definitely a balancing act to get the adductors, hamstrings, quads and glutes all stronger but not too tight.

Morning Runs Continue

I was out at 4:30 AM today, I laid in bed awhile before deciding to go out. I have a massage tonight and I didn't want to be tired. 4.1 miles. My speed is back after Manchester and all the help I received last week. I'll probably run a few miles after work too.

I Had to Run!

Yes I was out at 3:30 AM to run 5.6 miles after only 3 days off since the Rehoboth marathon. I was awake early yesterday and today and I just decided my body was telling me to get out there! Only 12 cars on road. A great, peaceful time to run.

Rehoboth Seashore 2015

I did not have the pressure I felt in the past to run a BQ since I had one in Hartford. Annemarie and I ate at Dogfishead on Friday night, I had burger. I use to eat ww pasta but this year I have felt like I need more protein. I went back to the Marriott and had a 20g protein bar and a 10g Clif bar too.
The race started as it has the past 4 years, I took it easy through mile 4. The Clifton 2's are better than the 1's and I felt good but did not push too hard 5-17. I had to go for about 5 miles and used the porta potty at mile 17, I was looking to just run into one and it worked here at 17.
From this point on I felt great and pushed, gel starting at mile 4 and 3 salt capsules, the last at mile 21. I was flying and passing people from 18 on and at 24 a runner I passed said I was on a sub 4. I was able to run hard through the finish and came in in 3:59:47, over a 10 minute BQ!
It was a great race. Even though CC does not read this and she thinks it's all me I have to give a lot of credit to Cecilia CC Major, my bodywork therapists esp. after my hip popped out last Sunday at work and she fixed it in 2 hours on Thursday.
I can not say enough for MASSAGE THERAPY. Find a good one and show your appreciation.

Manchester Road Race 2015

First, hats off to volunteers for keeping unseeded runners out of the corrals and breaking into the course. I was able to run as fast as I could for the most part and I was able to come in at 37:15 1641 place overall 28/334 M6064. I felt strong and finished with a kick at 7:51/mi.
Since it was not quite 3 weeks since the RI Ultra I am thrilled with my time.
Rehoboth Marathon next weekend.

Tough Times

I was having a lot of difficulty getting loose after RI. Massage and all my rollers/tools
helped but receiving acupuncture again in conjunction with massage I think did it. Cc,
https://www.facebook.com/ceciliamajorlmt/?fref=ts my bodywork specialist has helped me focus on what is tight and suggested ways to attack it to loosen up different muscle sets. I now go to Northampton Community Acupuncture, http://www.nohocommunityacupuncture.com/ which has
helped me focus on overall health, sleep and tightness.

RI 6 Hour Ultra

I ran 12 laps in 5:41 for 32.4 miles. I had a shoe that was too tight by lap 8 and switched to the Conquest 2 for the last lap. I wish I had switched earlier.
2.7+ per lap was at times a bit boring but I did find lap 1-3 and 7-12 fun. Beautiful day great support and some amazing people running. I would definitely think of running again.

Awesome Weather!

Ran 7.1 miles today in 1:06. I could have run for hours, the weather was so beautiful.
Ordered Xtreme Bright, Pro Series X55 Headlamp from Amazon tonight 350 lumens.
Received a great massage from CC and I am focused on the glutes and my hips. I will
try using my feet/ankles more in RI.

Another Ultra

Well I didn't think I would run another Ultra until 2016 but I signed up for the RI Ultra on Nov. 8.
Run More!

Hard Drive Died but I'm Still Running

I couldn't write on the blog from my phone; Gmail didn't take my password.
I ran the Eversourse Hartford Marathon yesterday thinking I would make it a recovery run after running the VT50 less than 2 weeks ago. I felt OK to start but by mile 8 I felt strong. I took my time and started behind the 4:20 pacer. By mile 20 I had passed the 4:10 pacers and felt like I could keep pushing. I felt good at 23 and I was ready for the hill at 25; salt and nutrition good so far and only 2 porta-potty stops. Up over the hill and I knew I would have a BQ just a month after signing up for my 11th in a row! Finished in 4:04:52 shocked and surprised that I had recovered so well from Vermont.
My son Keith ran a 1:53 half with little training and a long of 6 miles. A great day for both of us.
Went home and worked in the yard for the remainder of the afternoon.

VT50 in 8 Days

Yes my 2nd 50 miler this year. I am really looking forward to running it I hope I run well & have fun! I always look to have fun 1st and run a good time 2nd but this has a 12 hour time limit which I am a little concerned about since I have never run the course before this run. my last 50 was just under 10:30 so I think I will be OK. I'm excited! Bring it on!

Back Long after 8 Days

I ran 15.2 on the Rail Trail today. I also signed up for the National Geographic All Trails Pro so I can find and run other trails everywhere.

Green Lakes Endurance 50k

Ultras are all about the race course and the support. 5 stars for both. The course had gravel, hills with rocks and roots, wood chips covering mud and a beautiful winding field. PB&J, Chocolate chip cookies and many different drinks. Inside bathroom with soap a plus. 4 laps around 2 pretty lakes with warm sunny weather. Lots of shade. The best was cold water at the last stop on the last lap, the ice even went into my 10oz. bottles. My split times were 1:22, 1:25, 1:26 and 1:23. I felt great and kicked it in at the end.

Green Lakes Endurance Run 50k Tomorrow

It's here and I am excited to run my second 50k. I have some issues lately and I haven't been able to get acupuncture for about 6 weeks but this race should allow me to take it somewhat easy and be able to change shoes if I need to as well.
Monday night I received a 90 minute massage from Cecilia  https://www.facebook.com/ceciliamajorlmt?fref=ts and it was an amazing session. I felt like my energy was floating above me at one point and I was vibrating through much of the session. I never experienced anything like it.

Rail Trail with my Son

My son and I ran 10 miles on the Rail Trail this morning. I wish I could run here every day.

Stepping up

In the past 5 days I have run 42.2 miles, 4 double digit days this month already. Yes I am trying to step up my mileage to prepare for the 50k and 50 miler. I take Tuesday off to give myself an extra day for the massage to take effect and I run longer on Wednesday. 68 miles total so far this month.

Week After Revel Rockies

Very hot and humid week! 21.0 miles with a few miles on treadmill since yesterday it was lightening when I got home from work. 103.7 miles for month, a little low but it did take a lot of days to recover from Colorado. Hopefully, back to mid 30's next week.

REVEL Rockies 2015

It was my first time in CO. I loved the course but the downhill was tough and the altitude was tough for at least the first 10 miles. I had a lot of fun talked to a lot of people and I feel good 2 days after. I am using this as a long run for my 50k next month but take nothing from the race it was great.
Unfortunately, they did have a bus problem and the half did not take place. I'm not sure how people will take this I hope it does not negatively impact this race. There are way more pluses than minuses.
My only problem besides the road canter was the gels were introduced later in the run than they has said they would be handed out. I did carry 4 so I was OK. 3 stars out of 5.

Week to Go

The Revel Marathon is in 1 week and I ran 10.2 miles today in mid to upper 80's to help prepare for the heat next weekend. Annemarie and I are excited to take our first trip to Colorado.

Speed Work Redux #1

Speed work tonight on a track for the first time in years. New Saucony Ride 8.

Warm up 1.2 mi. 12:37:33

400 #1   1:46:49  7:13/
       #2   1:49:99  7:32/
       #3   1:45:12  7:02/
       #4   1:37:81  6:29/
       #5   1:39:35  6:43/
       #6   1:38:91  6:34/

Cool down 1.3 mi. 12:50:24

I feel good and I feel like this will help going forward.

Back to the Hoka Conquest

Well last week I had to take a lot of time off because my left ankle was too tight causing pain inside my ankle between my my Achilles and ankle bone. 2 massages/week plus 3 acupuncture sessions and I was able to run 21.1 miles today pain-free!
This was a runners weekend with Western States 100, won by Rob Krar and the Ragnar MA Trail run. Kudos to all taking part!

Steamy Weather

Wednesday and today were hot and humid! 17.8 miles between the 2 days and off yesterday for a total of 40.3 miles this week. I am having some problems with my left big toe, heel and hamstring. I have not had any acupuncture foe 3 and a half weeks and I do need to address this before it becomes a problem. Hopefully another long run Sunday.

Long Run

Awesome day today and I took advantage and ran a 19 miler on the roads. I ran out of Nuun/water at mile 16+; I needed 10oz./5 miles and I carried only 30oz.

Back at it Going for 200 Miles this Month

I have tomorrow off from Fleet Feet and I hope to run 15-20 miles.

Vermont City Marathon

This was a great race again this year. Although there were glitches, they ran out of hats and metals for the later finishers, I love this race. My 2 pet peeves were not so bad and I do think there were adequate number of porta potties this year. The pacers are still somewhat annoying.  The 4 hour pacer was energizer and energizing. A great choice as a pacer. I hope he is back next year. I had a lot of fun this year and felt strong throughout. The weather was great and the fans and runners were the best. I had one of my strongest finishes and in the Hoka Clifton my feet/legs felt perfect at the end and after.  

My 10th Vermont City

I so look forward to this marathon. My kids, spouses and grandkids come with my wife, Annemarie and I and we have family time together. The race is my time but the weekend is always great to be with the family. I get to see my brother and his wife Jan and his kids and grandkids too sometimes. Just a special time.
This year I have run 2 races longer than a marathon and I loved them and had a great time running both. So even though I am not 100% it is only 26.2 and I will have a fun time despite the pace groups.

Rock the Ridge 50 Endurance Challenge

I had a blast at Rock the Ridge! I met so many nice people and talked to several at length while we were running. I ran with a local women for probably about 20+ miles of the race which definitely helped get me through to the finish.
My wife, daughter Kelly and I stayed in Poughkeepsie for the night about 25 minutes from the start. They had coffee at the start which I couldn't get before and was thankful they had plenty.
I packed too much stuff in my drop bag and I used a white garbage bag which was distinctive but I would have been better off with a gym bag.
The start was delayed about 20 minutes which helped and we went off down the hill at about 6:20.
Lots of hills which I walked for the most part and lots of down hills which I tried to take fast to makeup for the walking. I probably walked a little more than I had to but since it was my first 50 miler I really just wanted to finish w/o injuries.
The metal is awesome! The food was good and plentiful. I ran the last 5 miles with people I had seen throughout but really by myself. Had to walk a lot in the last 2 miles but ran up hill to the finish.
Definitely would run another 50! Hoka Clifton life saver because the ground was rough on the feet. 10 gels taken during run along with cookies and the baked potatoes at one stop were awesome! Chocolate chip Clif bar helped ease my stomach near end.

Boston 2015

It was an entirely different day than any other Boston Marathon. First, I drove myself to Hopkinton. I parked where the family use to drop me off at the South lot. The weather was cold, rainy and windy. I talked to a lot of people about marathons in general, it was nice to be talking just about running once again.
The race went well, I took my time and enjoyed every minute of it. The crowd was huge for such weather; I saw blind runners, people with one or 2 artificial legs, wheel chairs, autistic runners, charity runners and even a guy with a broken leg on 2 crutches going down the middle of the road.
The Hoka Clifton's helped my feet. I had no foot pain after and felt fine at the finish. I do think I would have finished faster in the Saucony Ride but my feet would have been more beat up. I did stop at 3 porta-potties which had to add at least 7 minutes to my time.
The bus back to Hopkinton was great and the people I sat near all were about my age and had run several Bostons. It was fun to talk to them about hopefully coming back to run again.

Boston!

Yes it's one day to go.
I am driving myself to Hopkinton and catching the school bus back after the race, something I have never done in the 10 years running Boston.
The weather is suppose to be cool, 45-50 F, and  mostly rain with 20-30 mph E winds.I'm still not sure how to dress but this is better weather for me than 90F.
I'm thrilled to be here once again!

One Week to Boston

As always I am excited to run Boston. I have been working a lot lately and I am a little tired. I did not get a massage last week but I am not sure I need one every week.
Alli, who I work with at Fleet Feet, has a stress fracture but is going to give it a go. I hope she will be pain free. Michelle, is running her first Boston. I'm sure she will run well I just hope she has fun and takes it all in.
I hope all the runners have fun and enjoy the day. The weather is warming but it should be a fairly cool day.

Coming Back, Looking Forward

I feel great right now. The book "Ready to Run",  http://www.readytorunbook.com/ has been a great read. I would highly recommend it. Low miles last week but I am going over 40 again this week. Monday was beautiful followed by high winds for 3 days and snow yesterday and today. So much for the first day of Spring. I am definitely done with this Winter and ready for Spring-like weather.

Green Jewel 2015

My first 50k is in the books. I had a great time. Getting to Cleveland was fine and my new phone's GPS worked well.
Big thanks to the owner of the running store, Vertical Runner, in Brecksville, to steering to buy the LA Sportiva individual spikes you can screw into any shoe. The first 8 miles of the course was all ice and several patches after that as well. I met Ethan, 25,  on the bus who was running a 100 miler in a few weeks and Jeff a local guy who actually ran with me for the last 15 miles.
What got me through it was the chocolate chip cookies, lots of chips, the were handing out at the stops along with the peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
I came in 33, 5:24:52, walked up some of the hills to help with the 50 mile training, 7th in my age group, M 50-99. Yes 50-99!

A Week to Go!

I am excited about my first 50K but I feel I am taking it in stride. I ran 169 miles so far this month but I have to be at work early tomorrow so I probably have closed the book on February. 341 miles so far this year and I feel good. Started running in my new Hoka Clifton's today, 7.7 miles. Still lots of snow and some ice but after running a few days indoors, I ran all week again outside. I just don't feel as good on a treadmill. The temperature is going to be 20-35 F in Oak Grove OH and partly cloudy for the race. Seems good, no rain or snow.

Lessons to be Learned no Matter How many Miles

I got to the bus this morning around 6:20; had to clear roof of snow and it was -4 degrees so I had to make sure the bus was warm by 7:00. I tell you this because I hit my left ankle getting into the bus to pull away. Tonight after work I only ran 4 miles because I hurt my right ankle slipping on snow and ice with the cantered road lower on the right. I am use to having the road higher on the right and i rolled my ankle slightly. I don't remember a tougher day on my ankles. The lesson could be too many miles in snow/ice, too many miles period or more rolling out the legs and more liquids. I chose the ladder. I feel better but I will take it a little easier the rest of the week since I have already run over 110 miles for the month.

Tough Week of Running

I took last Sunday off since I worked and its was cold, dark and snowing when I got home from work. Averaged a 10K all week except yesterday; I was tired to start the run and I didn't feel any better so I stopped at 3.4 miles. I am trying to have 2 week cycles since I am still working 6-7 days/week.
Hal Koerner's Ultrarunning has been a great resource book for both my 50k and 50 mile race. Science of Running, Ready to Run and Anatomy of Running also have helped me prepare for the long runs and hopefully, run better marathons. I would suggest all of these for all levels of runners. Run injury free!

Another Great Week of Running!

I started the week with a 24.4 mile run and ended it with a 16.8 mile run. Total miles: 62.2. The most weekly miles in at least 6 years. All in Hoka Clifton. I love the shoe and I will probably run the Green Jewel in the Clifton. Great massage this week too. Thank you Julia!

January is Almost Over

It's been a great month with a 172.2 mile total combined with last month's total of 347 miles in 2 months.
I hope to run long (25?) miles on Sunday. A lot of my miles lately have been run in Hoka Clifton and Conquest. All miles outside in insulated CW-X tights. I'm reading 4 books on running, 2 on ultra marathons.
I'll talk more about the books in the next few days.
Go PATS!

Great January!

I'm having a great time running right now. A new goal can do wonders for your motivation! I have run 137.2 miles so far this month with 174.8 last month. I ran in the Hoka Clifton for the past 4 days and and am loving them again. I hope to run at least 10 before the snow stops me tomorrow. Jury Duty today so I got to rest up some and with less stress from not driving the bus I feel great right now.
I got a new book on the Kindle, "Ready to Run" another excellent book I would highly recommend.

Cold Day

I ran 10.5 miles today in temperatures ranging from 6-16. Aquaphor on my exposed face kept me from any discomfort. Thermal CW-X tights, Ice Breaker Tube, hat and base layer. Also Brooks' Heater Hog and Saucony mittens with Nike shell. So warm! I would have run longer but the frozen asphalt did my left big toe (bunion) no good. Bright sun, fun run. I'm not sure if I'll hit 50 this week, it will depend on weather.

End of 2014 and Beginning 2015

22.3 miles on Saturday and a total of 53.7 miles last week. I'm feeling great!
I hope everyone has a high mileage new year! Run more.

Looking Back on 2014

Wow! 8 marathons and hopefully, another Boston qualifier with the Rehoboth time (80 seconds to the good).
174.8 miles this month, the most miles in a month in over 5 years. The most total miles since 2010.
I had fun and I am in the best running shape I have been in many years. Thanks to massage http://themassageschool.org/, Roll Recovery http://www.rollrecovery.com/R8/ , Rumble foam roller http://rumbleroller.com/, Anatomy for Runners http://www.amazon.com/Anatomy-Runners-Unlocking-Potential-Prevention/dp/1620871599 and extra time off from Fleet Feet http://www.fleetfeethartford.com/ . Thank you Nancy (and Steph and Carrie).
Happy New Year! I hope to accomplish a 50K and a 50 miler.
What are your goals?

Updates

I ran 42.5 last week and 42.9 this week. I'm on schedule to run more miles this month than any month this year. Massage once a week, the Roll Recovery and the Rumble roller are helping me and the "Anatomy for Runners" is awesome! 50+ for at least 2 weeks next month!

I Feel Great!

I took 3 days off and then started running again after Rohoboth. 11 miles last week and so far 14.7 miles in 2 days this week. I am trying to make 20 miles feel short in my mind so that 31+ and 50 feel natural to run long. This is the most miles I have run in one year since 2010. 8 marathons run and I feel stronger now than I did in January.

Rohoboth Marathon

First, I had a great time again!
I started off by talking to a couple of Maniacs, I think #36 and 25??.
The day was cool and I worn Ice Breaker long sleeve. My bottles of Nuun/orange juice slipped right away and I had to carry the bottles in my hands for 6 miles. But I was determined to run under 3:55.
I talked to several people and ran with a women running her second marathon, her first in Hartford 2014.
We ran together until about mile 16 and then she pulled away. I had to use the porta potty but I knew if I did my chances of running sub 3:55 were slim at best. I kept going. At mile 23 I was trying not to slow down. At mile 25 I was trying to keep it under 10:00/mi. pace. I succeeded. I was totally spent at 26 but pushed to the end for a 3:53:40. A Boston qualifier but I know I can do better.

A Lot Going Forward

Ran the 78th Manchester Road Race in Manchester CT on Thanksgiving. 4.787 in 36:57, 21st in my age group (M60-64). Very crowded for the first 1.25 miles. I had to run close to 7:10/mi. for the last 1.5 miles to keep my U40 place. Nice day, nice race and I had fun!
Saturday is the Rohoboth Beach Marathon. I'm ready and I think I can run a Boston qualifier. But
I also signed-up for the Rock The Ridge 50-Mile Endurance Challenge, http://www.mohonkpreserve.org/rock-the-ridge
I need to fund raise $250 so if you would like to donate, https://www.crowdrise.com/-individualparticipants/fundraiser/keithalmeida
I have never run 50 miles so it will be a new challenge for me.

Rainy and Cold

I bought a Nike light rain cover or something like that about 7 years ago and I felt hot when I ran and it seemed to cause me to sweat more so I hung it up until today. I worn an Ice Breaker top under it and it was perfect! I was dry and warm but not hot and I did not sweat! 8.2 miles and I felt great! I feel much better running since I have increased my mileage, but I have to run in the dark a lot more. 40+ miles 3/4 weeks.

Colder but nice Weather

6.2 miles today after 13.1 yesterday. It was colder but I felt good and i ran well. Over 1200 miles for the year and I just purchased the AFX ankle foot maximizer. I've read it will help stabilize and strengthen my foot/ankle and it was only $99 so I will take the chance. I'll let you know in the next 2 weeks how it it is in helping my stability.

Increasing Mileage

I ran 40.9 miles last week and 29.6 so far this week. I ran 14.3 miles on Sunday but I was tired from working on Saturday so it took 2:10:50. Monday 2.2 miles with an off day yesterday, I was exhausted! Today I had off from work and I stayed in bed until after 8:00. Felt better and ran 13.1 miles in 1:53:56. 9:09/mi. Sunday in Saucony Ride and 8:41.8/mi. today in Hoka Conquest. Walking around today in Saucony Cortana.

NU Hartford Marathon Part II

They did correct my time for Hartford. I am happy that it is probably spot on now. I pushed so hard to be under 4:00 and I had accomplished it just to have it taken away. It almost seemed that the 3 was dropped for my start time when I saw that my daughters time was 8:03:25 vs. my time of 8:00:24. We had all stood together before the start gun. It was not a Boston qualifying time but a time to build on for Boston. This is my local marathon and I want to run it forever so it would have left a tough feeling in me if it had not been corrected. It just shows how great the people of the Hartford Marathon Foundation are to go the extra mile to understand the runners feelings.

Update: Hartford Marathon Understanding

They listened to me and gave me a time which I feel I earned. It did move me up to 15/63 in age group (up 1 place) but otherwise it did nothing but give me the time I deserved. No Boston qualifier time so no controversy there. This is my hometown marathon and I will now feel happy running it as long as I can. Thank you NU Hartford Marathon!

Hartford Marathon

First, the metal and shirt are great. I had a shirt on that said "Father of the Bride" for my daughter Kelly's wedding next month to Zach Glazer. Along with my daughter Tiffany, one of her maids of honor, they all ran the half.
I liked running in the rain and the temperature was cool and perfect except for my hands.
I started way back because I wanted to go slow at first and finish strong. I started behind the 4:30 pacer.
I was on a 3:55 pace and  I noticed the the 13.1 mark reflected the the gun time which it should.
But my official results now reflect the gun time only for all splits and the finish. I hit my watch after crossing the finish and it showed 3:57:58.
I am certiainlyglad I did not shoot for a Boston qualifying time. Again I had to use the porta potty at about mile 22.
Overall, a fun day.

Random Thoughts

The rolling registration is over for the 2015 Boston Marathon, and this year it appears you needed to beat your qualifying time by 62 seconds to get one of the 23,546 qualified runner entry slots. This is slightly closer than last year, when the cutoff occurred at 1:38 below the qualifying time.
Runner's World had an article which discusses "Runners with More Training Miles Finish Marathons Faster."
No surprise, I always felt I needed to run at least 40 miles to qualify for Boston and the article substantiates this thinking.
Hoka Clifton's are helping me get to 40/wk.

Awesome Day to Run

I got out of work at 2:30 today so I was out running just after 3. 8.1 miles in Hoka Clifton in 1:11 about 8:46/mi. just what I need for 26.2 to definitely qualify for Boston even if they go back to 25k entrants.
I signed up today for Boston and was #25845 at 10:40 this morning. So maybe if I got on-line at 10 I might have been under 25k but it would have been close.

Back to Running

I took only 4 days to recover from the LVHN Via Marathon. I ran 2.7 miles yesterday and 4.1 today. I ran in the Hoka Clifton today. I had them on before the marathon but decided at the last minute not to wear them. I hope to qualify soon for Boston 2016 so I can run in the Clifton's in a marathon without worrying how fast I run. No massage this week student was sick but acupuncture (needles) and lots of Roll Recovery and Rumble Roller. I feel great!

Via Marathon

So OK I missed posting in August. I seem to have 6 things left to do at the end of my day, every day! I have so much to do and running is not always #1 ;(
The Lehigh Valley Health Network Via Marathon was fun. It had it's positives and a few negatives but overall I accomplished what I wanted to in running it. I did not like the long down hill near thew beginning but I loved the trails! I felt good after recovering from the hill (mile 6) and I felt strong at the finish, no cramping. I took 4 salt capsules, S!Caps before mile 7, 14, and 21. 6 gels and OJ w/o Nuun (ran out); mostly water Gatorade just 2Xs.
Finished in 4:01:19 because I had to use the Porta-potty at mile 18 for about 3 minutes :( I find it tough traveling and finding the right food to set myself up for the race.
Hoping for a 3:50 in Hartford October 11.

163.4 miles Later

Yes, I almost missed writing in  the month of July. Many Roll Recovery http://www.rollrecovery.com/ , Rumble roller foam roller, http://www.rumbleroller.com/ and massages later I ran 131.2 miles in July which was my best total miles in July in 5 years. Thanks to all the students at The Massage School, http://themassageschool.org/?gclid=CNTDp_C58L8CFSsSMwodm0IAEA I could not run as well as I do without your help. It's funny but most of the students don't really know what their massage does for me. I am so blessed that there is such a quality massage school so close to me. Thanks Tika and Robin for all the great appointments!
I have three marathons in the Fall, the first is the Lehigh Valley Health Network Via Marathon in early September. Another marathon in PA. The Erie Marathon at Presque Isle is still on my list too.
A 8.0, 10.2, 16.3 and a 20 miler this month.

Update June 2014

The Vermont Marathon went well but I ran out of gas between mile 21 and 22. I finished in 4:05 when I was on a 3:55 pace most of the race.
It has been tough coming back but running in the Hokas I have gotten back to over 25 miles and I have increased every week since VT. Hopefully, I will break 35 this week. I have only had 2 days off in past 24 so I am a little tired.

Nutmeg State Marathon

Running around a park 12 times? Surprisingly a very enjoyable marathon which I will run again. I ran with a friend, Nick Platsis, for the first 14 miles which went by fast. Even after Nick too off the park itself was very pleasant despite the increasing humidity. 4:16:45 was a little slower than I wanted to run but VT City is 10 days away so I'll take it! There was a hill which of course repeated 12 times which did slow a lot of people down. Also this was the 4th day of 5 marathons in a row for several of the runners. God bless them! I believe they are crazy, but this was my 4th marathon this year which probably would have several people saying the same thing about me. Shirt and metal were nice and the volunteers! WOW!

Thursday Marathon

The Nutmeg Marathon this Thursday is my first Thursday marathon. My legs are tired from Boston. I came back too fast after Boston and I need to take it easy in Goodwin Park because I am running the VT City Marathon on the 25th. It is a day off from work, only the second day off since Boston. I had needles Monday with massage on Wednesday and Friday since I am "running" a 5K, the Pineapple run, for charity on Saturday.

118th Boston Marathon

I had a good time riding the Hartford Track Club bus. Sat next to Mitch and met several people who have been on the bus before but I never got a chance to talk to in the past.
The village had tight security and the staging areas had smaller sets of corrals to control people at the start.
I ran as slow as I could the first 4 miles and then I set a good pace. At the 15 mile mark the people were again grilling next to the road ;)
I took the hills in Newton at a good pace; I had carried orange juice/Nuun mixture and since it was hot (my Wave went off @ 11:00) I started drinking it @ mile 10. I drank Gatorade only once and took 5 gels.
After Heartbreak I felt good and pushed a little harder. I realized at 22 that I could break 4:00 if I kept pushing. I finished in 3:59:15. People on my bus came in 3:03 and 3:13 but many had slower times than they expected.
I saw a survivor from the bombing at mile 23 with one high tech leg she looked strong but tired. Several blind runners and other amputees and a few wheel chair racers. It was inspirational with more music than in previous years.

Holy Thursday

The last time I ran the Boston Marathon the day after Easter Sunday, I ran a PR, my first Boston. This time I hope to have an uneventful race and just have fun. It will be very emotional starting on Saturday at the Expo. I hope they do not make it difficult on the runners. I feel the history when I run Boston and I feel a small part of it. There are not a lot of things you can do in life and feel that way with all the stress and emotion of a marathon. You never know but it could be my last Boston even though I have a qualifying time already for next year. I hope to run about 3:52 but I hope to capture the awe I had in my first Boston.

Two Rivers Marathon

First, Mark, the director did a great job! I ran well and came in third in my age group, 60-69. The person finishing just in front of me was second. I was 48th overall  in 3:46:52.
This is a great course, although not closed to traffic, with the last 7 miles a gentle down hill.

Update a Long Time Coming

I worked every day since the marathon until last Saturday so I have been a little tired and busy. Two of my daughters have just gotten engaged and I have had to add more activities to my calendar.
I'm looking forward to the Two Rivers Marathon and I hae tried to increase my mileage. I have been reading the Hansons' training and I realize that I ran much better when I ran 45-55 miles/week.
I tried the Boost Glide but it is a little too soft for me.
I tried the Hoka Conquest and even though it is 4 mm it works for me and I hope to be able to increase my weekly mileage by 10-15 miles. I hope to run a full marathon in them in May.
My Sciatica flared up for about 2.5 weeks but I used heat, a firm seat in the bus, and holding some stretches for 2 minutes to hold it at bay.

Louisiana Marathon

Awesome!
I had a great time, my son and niece Gina ran the half. A little too warm but warm and sunny in January!!!
Had to use the porta potty and I stopped to tie one shoe but the heat got to me at mile 24-25 and I had to walk up one concrete overpass. Still my 3:58:50 was nice and the the Food and Bands and the VIP Marathon Maniac tent, WOW!
I ran with about 6 Maniacs throughout the race and saw some awesome wildlife. Definitely one to run. Only drawback is the concrete roads but you get them throughout the South and you just have to suck it up.
Roll Recovery, http://www.rollrecovery.com/ helped after the race and the past two days. My legs definitely feel better than usual.
New Orleans was amazing too. Red Slipper and Bull Dog just two of the great places we went to to eat and have a brew. Hopefully, I will run it again. Loved Baton Rouge and the River Road back to New Orleans.

Six Days to Go!

Looking forward to the Louisiana Marathon. My legs feel a little tired today so I took the day off. I would like to run between 3:55 and 4:05 in the race and have a lot of fun and just enjoy running in Louisiana. I feel I am prepared with needles last night and a 2 hour massage tomorrow. Looking forward to a long run, my legs usually feel better after the long run (marathon). I'll be running 5 marathons in 5 months with 2 in May 10 days apart. I should be fine, I just want to have fun in 2014 and I hope to run as many marathons as I feel good physically and that fit the family's schedule.

2013 Year in Review

I had a great running year and I am very thankful. I ran the most miles since 2010 and ran 6 marathons after running 8 last year. I qualified for Boston again, it will be my 9th in a row and I ran a faster time, by 5 seconds, in Rehoboth than VT. I earned 2 **s and then 4****s with the Marathon Maniacs. Very happy with this achievement. Orthotics again that are working and a massage every week have been a great help along with Addaday Ultra roller and a stable job situation.
My goals for 2014 is to run sub-3:50 in some marathon and qualify for my 10th Boston in a row.

Thanksgiving and Beyond

I ran a 36:13 (7:38/mi.) in the Manchester RR. My grandson Sam ran his first with my daughters, Kyle and Zach. I felt the best I have felt at the end, not out of breathe at all. Legs felt good. Few miles last week and I am only running 3 days this week before the marathon on Saturday. I'm looking forward to running, 2 hour massage on Wednesday. I bought a new pair of CW-X tights and ran 4.4 miles last night in them. Felt fast but I am wondering if over 26.2 miles it might impact my sciatica. Will run again tonight in them to help me decide. If there is any doubt in my mind I guess I will wait for Baton Rouge.

Last 2 Weeks

I'm running well, doing a lot of fast, shorter miles. Tomorrow, hopefully, about 16 miles BUT I am tapering so I will not push the pace. I should easily be under 40 minutes for the Manchester RR. Great massage from Karla this week! Almost 68 miles total in past 2 weeks.