On the Edge

Well, it is rapidly coming to the close of the year.

It has been a very, very, very hard year; but, I have survived somehow.

Now, I wonder how my knee will fare and can it make it through to March 21 to do the Los Angeles Marathon. I wonder how I will cope doing the LA Roadrunners program. I have already done 16 miles; can I get to the end? Can I stay with my current group? How will it go Saturday since I have not run since the struggles of last Saturday?

It is a lot of uncertainty; but, I resolve to do my best to make it somehow, someway. Adelante.

It Is Better to Give Than Receive

The last few weeks I have been more on the receiving end of running, as in receiving pain and worry about my knee. It has been neither fun nor inspiring; so, I have decided to try and make a positive.

In earlier Roadrunner training weeks, they had some presentations by charities and being involved in the dreaded and much feared "church stuff" I know of MANY, MANY, MANY more causes and problems. So, I decided to combine the two and build on what the Roadrunners had mentioned as a possible motivational force to run the Los Angeles Marathon.

Realistically, I am not sure I can raise some of the large sums some of the groups, worthy as they are, were seeking. I also wanted some sort of personal ties; if I am going to be pounding cement for 26.2 miles, I want it to also matter to me!

I also know there are literally thousands of worthy causes and it is hard to say which is best or to say well, Heifer International or Catholic Relief Services are less worthy than a local group for example. I decided to come up with three options.

1) ThinkCure! This is a charity championed by my beloved Los Angeles Dodgers which works to support cancer research in the Los Angeles area. I even got to make a page!
http://www.firstgiving.com/michaelward

2) St. Anne Church and Shrine Youth Program and CCD in Santa Monica: I do a LOT of volunteer work there and we are working to raise money to get a Powerpoint projector and a computer so we can make better presentations for the kids and teens.

3) St. John the Baptist Church Social Services which works to help the poor and struggling in Baldwin Park and the region. http://sjbsocialservices.blogspot.com/

Anyways, if anyone wants to sponsor a quixotic effort at running the Los Angeles Marathon 2010, it would be greatly welcome and appreciated. I think all three of these causes are worthy and they will be on my mind March 21.

Day Off ...

Well, today normally would be a running day (I tend to go on Monday and take Tuesday as the day off in the LA Roadrunners schedule).

After Saturday's long run and yesterday's not-so-speedy walk, I decided this will not be a running week, well until Saturday. I am going for a bit of rest. I may do some walking as well (well, besides normal amount in job and commuting). Hopefully, the knee will respond to the rest, the brace, and the ice. I may give it a second week off next week.

It does feel weird not to have been and I feel rather guilty. It did give me a bit extra sleep, which hopefully will help me finish off a cold and some general tiredness.

I guess right now it is trying to balance pain vs. soreness, recklessness vs. tough it out, pride vs. practical, and more ...

What to do?

Today was a post-long run day and the LA Roadrunners schedule called for a 30 minute run at aerobic pace (a.k.a. the slow one). The Group 7 senior pace leader last week had even said he thought we could not run at all on Sunday in lieu of resting the legs.

I decided to modify the plan following yesterday's results. I opted to walk ... My knee still had some awkward moments; but, the problems were not like while running. I walked to the Santa Monica Airport area and Clover Park and around for a spell. I was not speedwalking; but, I was also not just edging along the sidewalk.

I managed 53:13 of walking for 2:51 miles and a whopping 21:13 pace. Oops. Still, I felt it better to do something than nothing. A positive was my calves were not sore at all.

I am still not sure about this week; I am edging towards a week of rest and ice packs. It is just so frustrating.

Week 16: Boxing Day Run

Today was another long run for the LA Roadrunners, just today was different ... there was no LA Roadrunners officially as the school, used as a base was closed.

So, I opted to go for the long run form my parents' house in Orange County. It started later than normal due to an early morning trip to John Wayne Airport.

I set out and felt so-so with my knee and also just a lack of energy from Christmas and all.

I did get in some hillwork and the scenery was a nice change. Not often I see horses or heck houses with decent yards on my Santa Monica runs.

I decided to head down and back some residential streets and then to a larger street towards eastern Anaheim. Upon finding an open gate, I went into Esperanza High School, the nearest public high shcool and looked for their track. I thought the track may be a good option to ease the pounding on my knee.

I found the track and frankly it was in terrible condition as was their field, which was a surprise. Still, I was two miles in and surviving; so, I began going old-school ... laps of the track.

I kept going but I was struggling. I was definitely not on LT target pace; but, felt some miles was better than no miles. So, round and round I went, remembering why I normally do not do track laps unless I am racing! It was so dull, especially as it is not my high school. I tried to think about other things that have been causing issues lately; but, no good today. I did see some aircraft headed into John Wayne Airport; so, that was a welcome change.

I kept going round and round with brief stops for Powerade (yeah!) and back at it until hitting 6.6 miles. I then began heading for my parents' house, which meant even more hillwork, passing a tractor on a strawberrry patch and other odd sights.

I got home ... knee was sore, time was bad; but, I made it. I did not make the target time; but, I did make the miles at least. I also got concerned about the battle damage and am thinking I may need a break this week.

I ran for 1:33 for 8:08 miles at 11:35 pace vs. my target of 10:30; so, disappointing to say the least.

I will have to see how it goes this week, if I do go and not rest my knee. May be I will go back to Group 8? At least next week is a mere five miles; so, I think I can manage. I guess the frustration is I am really trying and right now the results are not as good as I want. It is still better than I could do in May; but, hobbling around is a bit demoralizing.

New Place ... New Time

Well, Thursday is not only Christmas Eve, it is another running day, scheduled for 45 minutes of LA Roadrunners training.

This time it was a new environment, Baldwin Park, coupled with LIGHT and eating some left over Pan Dulce from a Posada, so some new variables.

I set out and got a good pace going, though some twinges in the knee. I got settled in though which was good and weather was really nice.

I took a totally unplanned route and just went by instinct. Some streets were free of lights; others I was stopping every block. I was in residential and commercial areas. I even managed to get chased by some little dog; but, it backed off as soon as I stopped and looked at it! :-) There were some less amiable dogs though trying to get over fences for a run at me.

I was doing pretty well and my knee got better as the run continued. I think some of the stops helped as well. It was a bit sore; but, it was tolerable and not as bad as the last long run.

Put up a respectable 4.34 miles in 45:35, which was decent.

In the end I am pretty happy the knee held up and while not perfect by far survived ... plus first run at LT target pace! 10:30 to the dot! Yeah! By old standards that is slow; but, by new survival mode standards, I will take that gratefully.

Feliz Navidad a Todos. Happy Christmas!

Go Speed Racer?

The teens at church last year were talking about some Speed Racer movie; somehow that got in my head this morning as I headed out dark and even earlier than normal for some "speedplay" as the LA Roadrunners call it. I can not get to a proper track; so, I use an improvised path down a very quiet street by Santa Monica Airport for 8 x 500m.

My knee was a bit tender on the walk over; so, I felt a bit nervous. I also had a windbreaker on due to the weather, which was a bit windy.

I got to the start and took off on one run and actually felt a bit unsure with the knee. It was also a bit odd as there was no headwind or tailwind; it seemed to be swirling! It was a weird feeling having wind coming in multiple directions. My time was decent; but, a bit off the target of 9:30.

I kept going and began feeling a bit better knee-wise; but, I also felt a bit dehydrated for some reason. I think one ongoing issue is I have to run early; so, I am not eating and drinking much prior to the mid-week work versus the long runs Saturday when I have eaten breakfast and filled the water tank.

I like the speedplay and the semi-sprinting; but, I still need to get consistent. With these runs I can not yet "sense" speed and I am not doing the goal of being within five second each time.

Still, they went pretty well and knee held up for another day.

#1 2:13 for .25 miles for 8:53 pace
#2 2:12 for .26 miles for 8:31 pace
#3 2:12 for .26 miles for 8:39 pace
#4 2:22 for .27 miles for 8:57 pace
#5 2:20 for .26 miles for 9:01 pace
#6 2:30 for .27 miles for 9:11 pace
#7 2:17 for .26 miles for 8:47 pace
#8 2:20 for .26 miles for 8:50 pace

Not quite a model of consistency; but, they are faster than I thought I could do on the way. Right now, I will settle for it.

On a side note, the Santa Monica page for Facebook was promoting some events coming soon ... one was something called "The Los Angeles Marathon." Sounds familiar for some reason ... Wonder if I should "Like" it?

Monday ... A Bit Better is Better than A Bit Worse

Monday morning came all too soon and it was soon time to be back at it. I got up and decided to give it a go.

I headed out for a scheduled 45 minute run for the LA Roadrunners mid-week training. I now have kind of routes depending on time due.

At the start my knee did feel sluggish; but, the legs felt better than normal. I started taking Clif Shot ROKS right after the long runs and they definitely seem to help in recovery. My calves were a little sore; but, there was nothing really hard to overcome due to Saturday.

I was doing alright, not great; but, the soreness in my knee was not threatening.

I continued along and while off the LT pace target, I was relatively comfortable, especially compared to Saturday.

I also have begun a bit of mental adjustment. I was not frantically sprinting to try to get to the magic number. The reality is I have a concern about an injury and sprinting on uneven sidewalks in the dark is a good way to add more problems. While not a great run, I was still going and trying.

I made it home and looked ...
45:56, 4.14 miles, and 11:22 pace.
Great? No.
Good? Not really.
Satisfying? In a way, yes as I was able to run at least and reality is compared to April level, those are good numbers.

Adelante!

Sunday ... Live to Run Another Day

Sunday is kind of a post-run run ... So, after yesterday's fun, I set out dark and early.

My legs felt better than normal, especially for 16.32 miles added to the odometer, My knee was acting up some; I decided to just do what I could.

I struggled a bit and felt LT pace was not an option; so, I slowed and just tried my best.

I ended up with a mediocre 30:54 for 2.4 miles at 12:54 pace (including traffic lights time). It was not great (or even decent); but, it kept me moving.

Hopefully, these non-perfect runs will be their own portion of this journey to run the Los Angeles Marathon.

Week 15: Now It Gets Interesting

When I was on school sports teams, I was pretty durable physically, never missing a practice, let alone a game or a meet. I would get dinged; but, always onwards.

Now, I'm older and suddenly it is not always that easy. This week my somewhat nagging knee has been bothersome and worse.

Saturday morning I got up not knowing if I could go and if I did how far, how fast, and how well.

I really tried to motivate myself. I played the old "fight songs," was stretching, doing the mental exercises from the past, and began to feel the adrenaline. I decided to give it a go.

I got to the LA Roadrunners' training site and got ready. Group 7 launched fairly quickly. I had a plan of peeling off at the first water station by Casa del Mar Hotel if it was not going to work. The group started off to the north. I soon saw a friend from church walking his dog, someone I see most runs. I was surviving.

We headed onto the Santa Monica Pier, past the gaudy circus tent, and onto Ocean Avenue. Soon, we were at the Totem Pole and I was alright. I made water station #2 and continued up Adelaide and to the now famous San Vicente path. I was staying with the group and doing alright and made the end of the trail and the third water station before starting back towards Ocean Avenue.

I made it onto the southerly approach and felt a little soreness; but, nothing bad, even getting to the Pier. My Garmin 305 electronic conscience was also confirming progress.

Around 4 miles out from the target, I began to feel more soreness. I continued on though as we entered the Strand and the original water station. I was thinking about may be making it to the start point and cutting out for the day.

Still, I kept going and we past the origin and entered Venice. Here, it got challenging. I was starting to limp (or as another runner told me, I had an "asymmetric stride.") I was struggling. I was struggling physically to keep up and go and now a bit mentally.

We cleared the rows of condos in Venice and I was hobbling and dropped back in the group. It was gut check time. I was also fearful of serious injury.

I kept going, slower, but with the group. I was happy at water stations for the break and joyful at the final turnaround.

I was really struggling.

I remembered the old Servite ways and kept on. Somehow I was making it, even though it was step-by-step. I stayed with the group, even if at the end of the line. I was eagerly watching the display for the mileage to tick up .1.

Eventually, we were back on final approach at the Strand, somehow. I kept going and was happy to even make it. Some runners saw the displays hit 16.0 and stopped short. I kept going. Some stopped short by a few stores. I kept going. I made it to the flagpole ... I did it the Servite way ... run to the end. All those practices in rain, the Bowl, Hillcrest, Glover ... they came back when I needed them.

It was tough. It was my worst Roadrunner run. I struggled. I had to fight myself and my body. I made it though. Somehow. I made it!

There is sometimes a fine line between recklessness and courage, between timidity and precaution ... these are difficult boundaries.

I am concerned about my knee; but, I am also proud I lived up to the Servite Code and made it. I hope I can stay with Group 7; but, if I need to drop down, I at least have this gut check run. It was also my longest run ever!

Adelante.

16.32 miles!
11.53 pace
3:14.20

The Success in Failure?

Today was the first time since I have started that I failed to run the complete scheduled run in the LA Roadrunners plan for training for the Los Angeles Marathon.

It was a disappointment. I really wanted to do it.

My knee had been bothering me a lot on Wednesday. I put an ice pack on Wednesday night for sleeptime.

Waking up dark and early, I debated whether to go back to sleep and rest, try it or just go for a walk.

I opted for "B" and added a new knee brace as a fashion item, though the windbreaker was relegated.

I set out and felt some soreness and limits on movement. I quickly decided that the planned 45 minutes at LT pace (10:30) was not viable. Still, I headed east and started up and down two hilly streets. I was managing to run, just not that fast or comfortably.

I decided to just switch to a "let's see what is doable" mode. I opted for one of the normal, medium-range run courses which added another hill. I was coping, not thriving, but coping.

I also found that slowly my leg felt better or perhaps "less bad." Eventually, I was hitting aerobic pace at least for Group 7 and even getting a tad faster (under 12:00).

I hit Santa Monica Airport and turned for home. I found I was sensing a bit more power and far less gimpiness as I kept going.

I made it home ...

41:03 at overall 13.24 pace for 3.06 miles. Easily, my worst performance statistics wise. (If this was statistics class, I am hoping this is the outlier!). Still, I am kind of happy I could run at all and know I have hope if I can just get in motion.

I am not sure how Saturday will go. It is scheduled for 16 miles. I may try to tough it out to the first water station and then hope the apparent normal "now it's better" mode sets in and I can go for it. Also, the week after is faster LT pace; so, that will be a huge test. Right now, I am away in the mountains January 8-10 with the teenagers from church; so, that might be an injury break weekend.

I am praying this is not serious. It has lingered since August; but, I thought it was getting better ... I do not want to think about not making the marathon. I just do not want to even consider the possibility. May be I will have to walk; but, I feel I HAVE to do it somehow, someway.

We shall see ... definitely St. Michael Defend Us In Day of Battle time.

The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly

Today, or may be more accurately, this morning was another training session for the Los Angeles Marathon, under the LA Roadrunners schedule.

It was also a speedwork session; so, I set off for Santa Monica Airport for my improvised "track," which is really a lightly used street with some turns. Today was six runs of 500 meters ...a bit over 1/4 of a mile each.

So, I set off on # 1 and did alright. # 2 was faster. #3 I felt some soreness in my knee and slowed. #4 was slower still ... #5 ... even slower and knee much more of a bother. At this point I was thinking may be I should not be doing this; but, I also thought about what it means if I start slacking off on practices. So, ... off I went on the final one. It was slower than runs #1-3; but, it beat #4-5 significantly.

As a side note, it is interesting for me to see some of the business jets nearby; also, some Lamborghinis were outside in the open which surprised me.

The Ugly was my knee acting up.
The Bad was how I perceived my times.
The Good was that I still completed the schedule regardless.

Better was when I got home, I was checking some of the group emails and realized my worst run had actually been faster than suggested! Despite it all I had done relatively well I guess; but, the knee hopefully will get better. Now I have to make consistent runs (pace within five seconds of each).

Run Information
#1 2:24 for .28 miles for 8.24 pace
#2 2.04 for .28 for 8.11
#3 2.31 for .28 for 8.48
#4 2:36 for .28 for 9.21
#5 2:36 for .28 for 9.24
#6 2:33 for .28 for 8.58

On the way to work, my knee was sore. Still, I saw Temple Street and the Cathedral of Our Lady Queen of the Angels, and Dodger Stadium and felt the need to start seeing the positives instead of all the bad parts of the training. I want to be seeing those places March 21.

After the Deluge

After the fun and challenge of Saturday's long and wet 15-miler, it was a return to the LA Roadrunners schedule for self-training.

One change I did was I took some Clif Shot Roks which are designed to aid recovery. I had the chocolate flavor, which was good. They come in a ball shape and are easy to bite, which was great after getting back from the run. This was the first time I used them. As with the gel, no stomach issues.

I was a bit "workout sore" but not as much as before and more in the area just above the knees rather than my whole quadriceps area. So, that was a bit of progress. Perhaps the recovery product helped with this as well?

Sunday I set out dark and early for a 30-minute run; but, the happiness of Servite winning gave a bit of a mental boost. I felt a bit of a twinge in my knee and it slowed me down. I did 2.36 miles at a 13:04 pace for 30:41. (I also did about three minutes of running where again I accidentally deactivated the Garmin 305; definitely it is not a good habit to have). It was not a great run and I was disappointed; but, I finished it and I actually had decent energy the rest of the day, which was busy. I really want to see how I react after the 16-miler and use of the Roks.

Monday was another run dark and early. I started out and did not feel like a maximum effort was coming. Still, I headed out and got three hills in, which was a plus. I also had to run a few small circles at lights, which hurt my pace times. On the other hand, my knee was a bit of a bother. The result of all of this was running for 45.1 minutes covering 3.87 miles at 11:21 pace. The good news is that is faster than the lactic pace I had been operating on; the bad news is I wanted to be at around 10:30.

I have noticed a few things though. One is my Monday runs seem consistently slower and the pace and feel gets better as the week continues. The second thing it takes about a mile or so for my knee to feel better; for some reason, it improves as I run. it is more of a bother when the leg is has not been active for a bit! Third, I am now running loner and earlier; I think I may need to start using gels or bloks on these runs. The side effect of that is I lose precious sleep time as the Clif Shot gel recommends using 15 minutes prior to starting and 45 minutes is relatively short.

Still, I am doing my best. I am hoping I can carry on and make this something special, completing the Los Angeles Marathon. It seems it may be a bit of tough route; but, may be that is the Servite way!

Week 14: Mananitas in the Rain

Normally, for a Catholic lad such as myself, December 12 is the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe and in my current parish it is a BIG deal. It is close to a 24-hour celebration capping a nine-day Novena and party. The 12th means Mananitas at 4 a.m. and Mass and food ... well, it has since I got to Santa Monica in 1999. But, like the rest of 2009, this day was going to be different ... I had another training run with the LA Roadrunners.


The other variable was the weather ... rain and lots of it expected. There were Group 7 emails of advice and also worried runners.


I still got up early. This time though I was eating beforehand and wearing running gear and my music was not exactly Mananita Tepeyac or Mananita Ranchera. I was actually excited about the rain. I always enjoyed playing sports in the rain and in track was notorious for liking it either cold and wet or very hot. So, I decided for my music to open my eyes to to go with the old school stuff ... Danger Zone, Hell's Bells, Thunderstruck, Back in Black, Black Celebration ....etc. all before one last song, my marathon running theme. Really, I was amped to go then! I was channeling Servite track days definitely.



It got more fun as I loaded the car and ensured I had the usual supplies: Garmin 305, heart rate belt, energy food, keys, hat, etc. I also added change of clothes and garbage bag outfit as suggested. As I began the drive, the rain started to come and hard.

At the Strand Group 7's senior pace leader, Alan, seemed almost giddy. Indeed quite a few of us were excited. I also tried a new strategy: I consumed a Clif Shot chocolate energy gel while on the Strand before the group set off. It reminded me of pudding (yum!) and I think it helped to have some energy boost in the system (the package recommended using 15 minutes prior to starting). I think it may be mental; but, I still think the gels may be a bit messy and cumbersome for the actual run. This pre-run idea may be the one for me at least. I did not have any stomach issues either. The pace leaders have said some runners have issues with digesting gels; I have been lucky I guess and no problems!

Group 7 was soon on its way. Due to the Santa Monica-Venice Christmas run, we headed immediately south through Venice, slightly altering the route. I had a new partner as my normal colleague-in-crime had not arrived; we began talking about the week's running, the weather, snow in Texas, ... It began to rain lightly in Venice but nothing too dire. I did feel a little soreness in my knee.

Soon we were into Marina del Rey with the nice condos and numerous yachts. I recognized the taller buildings of Lincoln Boulevard. It also began to be off-on rain; luckily, it was not too slick. The first water station even had Gatorade which was a nice bonus. The group ran past the small beaches, around the Marriott Hotel and the Ritz Carlton, and onwards into the inlet areas, where it began to rain heavily to much excited shouting. The group went past a Coast Guard station as well as the Sheriff's station, where I am sure a lot of "51-50" codes were being issued. Alan, our senior pace leader, was cheerfully urging us on at a water station reminding us of the fun of rain running.

I saw one of the leaders, Captain Jesus, and began to think of prior weeks when he promised menudo was just around the corner (as well as coffee and doughnuts). Only this Saturday I really was missing menudo and champurrado and everything else since I was not at St. Anne's for mananitas.

The new route took us quite south and into the Playa Del Rey area just north of LAX. It was raining again. It was nice to see a few aircraft on short finals for LAX as they took the ocean approach route, including a Horizon Air Q400, a Southwest Airlines 737, and an All Nippon Airways 777.

Eventually, we reached a turnaround. Shortly after as I was putting my windbreaker on I noticed my Garmin unit had stopped; I think I must have tapped the timer while moving the left sleeve of my windbreaker. Yikes!

By now, I was pretty damp. Shoes. Socks. Shorts. Shirt. Windbreaker. Hat. (Still no garbage bag). Still it was FUN! I also felt like I had more energy than normal. I think the gel helped as I only ate three GU chomps, despite it being my longest ever run.

Lucky 7/Magnificent 7 was soon headed back north retracing the steps as the weather improved. I was able to permanently keep the windbreaker around my waist and not even resort to the garbage bag.

Once the group was back in south Venice my knee started acting up. I began to worry I would not make it and I guess I would have had good reason to fall off the group. My initial partner had gone in search of a restroom and not returned to the group for example. The group was also more ragged than normal and my normal partner and I linked up only for him to be seen falling back on the Strand.

Still, I kept going. I was wet. I was a bit sore. I was a bit tired. But, I kept going. This was definitely like the Servite days. Keeping with the song theme, I was singing "Take me home United Road" in my head thinking of rain soccer and weather well-suited for Manchester.

Soon enough we were on the Strand again and passed the start heading north to Santa Monica border. One of the pace leaders thought it was a turnaround and began to turn only to be told to keep going! So, we had an amusing sight of 50 adults doing a giant circle in the middle of the Strand for no apparent reason to observers. Then we reached the actual turnaround and headed the short distance back to the start. I kept with the group.

I was quietly happy. I had done 15 bloody miles in the rain on a dodgy knee. Our senior pace leader was also pretty enthusiastic. We did a quick stretch. I just felt like I had something to be proud of in this one and it had been a good gut check to see if I can do this whole thing.

Once we were back at the school, I quickly swapped to a Servite shirt (Servite was playing for the PAC-5 Championship that night). Once a Friar Always A Friar. I headed off to get Gatorade and began to eat a banana as usual when I heard someone say, "Hey, did you go to Servite?" Realizing that was a question for me, I looked over and was soon in conversation with another Roadrunner and a fellow Friar! he was 10 years younger and in Group 5; he also knew of my brother and we were soon in Friar talk. Unreal. CREDO! It was a nice end for the running day (prior to the other fun on the docket and more rain).

So, it was a good day. Tough but good. I was sore; but, still functioning. It was a Servite Day. (And to boost it, SERVITE WON!)

Run according to my Garmin: 11:54 pace for 2:42.40 and 13.66 miles. So, I did not miss too much. Another runner posted 3:05.19, 15.33 miles and 12:05 pace (he said he had fallen a bit behind; so, times are a bit slower than the group).

Hmmmm ....

This is starting to get interesting.

First, the LA Roadrunners training is scheduled for 15 miles tomorrow, which is enough of a challenge for me. Now, the weather is likely showers and the advice is ... WEAR A TRASH BAG! This will be something new. May be we can get special runner design ones?

Then, the Senior Pace Leader for Group 7 who does a great job keeping us in the flow of information sent an email with the mileage markers for the actual Los Angeles Marathon on March 21. Mile 13 ... literally a few yards from the headquarters of National Lampoon. What can I say?

ADELANTE!

99 Days and Counting ...

100 Days to Go ... But, this was a key day I hope

After a frustrating day at work yesterday, I got up slowly this morning. The thought of a 45-minute-pre-dawn run struck me as not a good idea. It did not sound fun. It definitely did not sound as good as sleep, especially when the first number on the clock is "3."

Still, I staggered up and got ready. I did dawn (bad pun that) a windbreaker again and my eyes opened a little when I heard my unofficial theme song for this whole thing come over the radio.

The LA Roadrunners schedule for training for the Los Angeles Marathon called for 45 minutes at LT (lactic time), the faster race pace. I had struggled a bit Monday; so, this was not sounding good.

I set out under the star-filled, rain-swept sky and headed along the normal route. I got going at a decent pace and my knee soreness slowly edged away thankfully. Then, I decided to throw some extra hills in for fun or because of a tired brain.

I was surprised when I looked at the Garmin 305 electronic conscience and saw I was faster than normal, a lot faster.

I was doing well and surprisingly got in a good solid groove, something I had not felt in a while. I was slowed by some extended traffic lights (did the dreaded jog in circles) which had my pace time soaring; but, even then, I got it to come down while running.

It was such a welcome feeling. I did not feel like I was struggling. I felt like I can manage my knee soreness. I felt like I was running for fun again, instead of "Must do NOW" attitude.

I took in more of the environment. I saw the freighters heading into LAX and wondered what Christmas toys and goodies were on those sleighs. I noticed Christmas decorations. I noticed the surprisingly clean air!

For whatever reason my mental jukebox locked on bagpipe version of "Amazing Grace" as I dodged cracked sidewalks, potholes, etc. Think of it as a really junior varsity, non-popular Nike ad.

I returned home knowing it was time for a warm shower and to get ready for work. I also thought of the line in my all-time favorite film, Chariots of Fire, "When I run, I feel His pleasure."

Time out....46:04 for 4.3 miles and 10:42 pace, INCLUDING the lights. Since the pace soared to 11:55 at one point at a light, I knew I had actually done rather well!

100 Days to Go ... Hopefully, this was a key day in giving me some confidence it can be done.

Is Back to the Future?

In my former running life, I was considered a sprinter/middle-distance/long-distance (in those days long distance meant ... TWO whole miles) runner. I literally ran every non-hurdle running event there was from the 110 to the two miles. So, I became used to sprinting and then longer sprints. I still very much have it inside me; so, I was pretty excited to see the track option appear on the LA Roadrunners schedule. I want to finish the Los Angeles Marathon, definitely; but, a little sprinting fun helps! I was thinking finally I can really use all that track practice in this training. Then I saw the pace ... not sprinting, at least not my sprinting.

Due to schedule and commute, I do not really have access to a track at 4 a.m.; so, I did the next bets thing, a small very quiet road near Santa Monica Airport which is mostly straight but has some turns. So, I headed down under the nice post-rain, star-filled sky.

I set out and kind-of, sort-of turned on the power. It was definitely not like the old days and the long-distance running style where you are not using the balls of your feet slows me down (or seems to at least in my head). I had a windbreaker on as well; this was something I had NEVER done in sprinting. I had brought it as I know sweat plus colder air is not a good mix.

Anyways, Run 1 ... .23 miles in 2.00 minutes at 8:37 pace. A bit longer and rather faster than 300m at 9:30 pace. I decided to keep the distance to see how I would fare and just adjust. They said to go on a minute's rest; so, ...
Run 2: 1.53 minutes for .23 miles at 8:35 pace. Oops. Still, too fast. (It seems crazy to be trying to sue the Garmin to pace yourself on such a short trot).
Run 3: 2.08 minutes for .23 miles at 9:08 pace. Better (?). My knee was showing a little soreness as well.
Run 4: 2.07 minutes for .23 miles for 9:14 pace.
Run 5: 2.06 minutes for .23 miles for 9:13 pace. So, a bit consistent.
Run 6: 2.05 minutes for .24 miles for 8:48 pace. Oops.
Run 7 : 2.10 minutes for .23 miles for 9:26 pace. At this point I was wondering is this good or bad as the paces vary, etc. and also this was slow. Plus, I wanted a little fun ...
Run 8: 1.47 minutes for .24 miles for 7:37 pace. That was a bit of fun, though still it felt far short of maximum power. Heck, in high school days, that would have been disastrous .... that was FAR slower than what I would do miles and two miles in.

Anyways, I made it through the runs feeling a bit better than on Monday, though still with a dinged up knee.

Upping the Ante

I am becoming more and more convinced that with the LA Roadrunners and marathon training running it is indeed all or nothing. I always kind of had that attitude when I played sports in school; but, now, I have seen other groups lose people in the middle of runs (our pace leaders for Lucky 7 say they are pleased we all go out together and come back together).

So, this morning, I awoke to darkness as usual and rain as unusual. I decided that this was one of those test days, especially as the ante was being upped: longer minutes and faster pace, plus a bit of a sore knee. Anyways, I decided what the heck ... vamonos!

So, I set out with the addition of a Raiders little windbreaker to the normal gear. I had won it at a Super Bowl party a few years ago and finally have some reason to use it ... they had even won Sunday somehow and even my dislike for them could not counter its utility.

I started out decently and got to my faster pace pretty well.

I then found myself losing the new faster target pace as numerous stoplights, problems with sidewalks, etc. required a lot of stop-and-go running which made it hard to lock on to the speed. I also started thinking about the slick sidewalks as on Saturday a pace leader fell on a little bit of standing water on a dry day! So, visions of going facefirst onto cement at 4:30 a.m. were soon in my head. My knee also twinged a little.

I guess it was a so-so run. I am trying to evaluate it. I did 11:09 pace (faster by a lot over the aerobic pace goals; but, slower than 10:30 I wanted) for 4.15 miles in 46:16. My knee also gave me a little concern. So, those were the negatives. The positives were I ran pretty well considering the knee and the weather conditions as well as first time in a long time at faster pace (September!). I hope to get to the faster pace as soon as possible obviously; but, still some positive signs among the need to be improved signs. I hope when the group goes to the faster pace in a few weeks I will be alright. I am also pleased a bit that on a day when it would have been easy to make excuses and not go ... I did.

So, I hope things will get better and improve. I'm trying ... At least running in the rain is fun!

Daytime Again?

Due to a bit of relief scheduling-wise, I got a chance to run in the daylight again Sunday, this time in the early afternoon. So, after dealing with my CCD class, working on a presentation, a grant, and all, I was back home, getting changed, and on my way to Clover Park for a post-long run run.

I felt alright. I definitely was nowhere near as sore as in the prior two weeks; so, my body is more than capable of taking seven miles without too much fuss now. I did o.k.; I was not overly disappointed or pleased with the run. I guess it was just good to stretch my legs after the Saturday trot.

I ran 2.8 miles in 30:11 for a 11:47 pace. Not bad I guess.

Week 13: Lucky 7 Goes 7 in My Lucky 13

It was another cutback week for the LA Roadrunners.

This week was a lot different with totally overcast sky and a lot fewer people, perhaps due to it being a mere seven miles?

Anyways, Running Group Lucky 7 (Magnificent 7) was soon off and headed north to California following the usual Santa Monica Pier departure route. I felt fine, which was a relief after a meal of turkey, potatoes, and champurrado at Knights of Columbus Christmas party the night prior! My running partner came quite late; but, it was alright and we went back to the caboose position prior to the group starting. Lots of Tiger Woods jokes and comments could be heard. Despite not much sleep due to neighbors being loud at 3 a.m. - 4:30 a.m., I was still alright, and happy with Servite's playoff win!

Due to the short route, we turned back at California and headed back and into Venice. It seemed quite a short run, even if seven miles was unthinkable in April. My knee did act up a bit after the second water station; I think I need to keep moving!

Since it was no one's longest run, there was not exactly the sense of accomplishment and the group acted normally (my old Group 8 had a big group outing to go eat breakfast this morning ...)

Still, it was good, even with a dodgy knee. The motivational speaker helped me a lot. She made a lot of good points, even though she is not a runner, for marathoners. It has been a harsh year for me and this may have been a big help to refocus. I have been doing this for a lot of reasons and will be reflecting on them a lot tonight. Also, interestingly, she mentioned God ... frequently! In marathon training? Who would have thought it?

Anyways, I am glad I did the run. Another day closer, Diosmediante, to the Los Angeles Marathon ....

Time of 1:25.34 for 7.19 miles at 11:54 pace!

Back At It

It is a cut back week for the LA Roadrunners; but, it was back at it dark and early this morning. I was curious to see how two consecutive days of rest would go with my legs. Today was a short 30 minute schedule.

It started out decently and a lot smoother than Monday. My knee did act up on parts of the run; but, it was nothing too serious. It seems that once the momentum is going and the ligaments are loose from activity it gets better (or the natural painkilling endorphins start or I just will it away?).

It still felt nice to be out again, even if I also would not have minded more sleep.

Did 2.61 miles at 11:53 pace; so, not bad. Still a long way until the Los Angeles Marathon; but, each step is a step closer ...

Back to the Dark Side

This week is another cut back week for the LA Roadrunners, which means a bit less and easier training for the Los Angeles Marathon.

I decided to run this morning in lieu of Tuesday again due to work; so, back out into the darkness! Ah, the sweet comfort of staggering along hoping not to fall over dodgy sidewalks.

I felt a bit better than Sunday; but, still some residual soreness. I did make up for a slow start and some knee pain as the run went on and even got some hillwork in to boot.

Today yielded 2.58 miles in 30:55 for a 11:57 pace.

It still feels odd to be running this aerobic (a.k.a. slow) pace as well as the long-distance way of running (not on the balls of the feet). It is so very different from track where I could feel the power and basically accelerate and know it. This feels more laborious; but, it is supposed to help with endurance, which is obviously key. I am hoping two days off consecutively will give my legs a bit of a break and refresh them as this is basically the 1/2 way point of this journey. Hopefully, the best is yet to come.

The Day After

Today was the second consecutive day of running in daylight (third if you ignore Friday's off day). I am beginning to feel less like a vampire! Since it was an off day for my CCD class, I got to sleep in a little as well as make my run early but in the sunshine. The LA Roadrunners guide has it down for 30 minutes.

I also experimented a bit. I decided to walk down to Clover Park by Santa Monica Airport where I sued to run. Since the park is open at 6 a.m., I could legally go for a trot. I like the park as it has nice grass fields to run in as well as some airplanes to watch along the way. I also hoped it would loosen my legs a bit.

I started to trot and it still felt sluggish after the walk. I could still feel the "workout soreness" from Saturday; but, I kept plugging along. Even a brief sprint did not help which was disappointing.

For a little while, my pace was 10 seconds off the goal which was not good; but, I began to feel a bit better 15 minutes in and it slowly got down into a good range. I was still enjoying being out in the sun and the nice weather, even with the soreness. I finished up at 30:05 (went very much by the clock instead of usual returning home) for 2.52 miles at 11:57 pace. It was not ideal; but, it worked.

Week 12: Cruisin' after Thanksgiving

Well, the LA Roadrunners do not stop for holidays; so, I left home home dark and early and despite light showers on the car I just washed, I got home in time for a quick nap before getting up to eat and change for ... the weekly long run. I also did not get much sleep Friday nigth due to leaving early, being home home, and also monitoring Servite's victory in the football playoffs. Once a Friar ... ALWAYS a Friar. The things I do for training for aiming the Los Angeles Marathon.

Despite the earlier light rain, the weather was great. The waves were pounding, slight breeze, and some nice sunshine. I was eager to go despite little sleep and a recurring bout of soreness in my knee. I did have a good feeling as I heard some of my favorite U2 songs on the radio before I left home. I also played my now official theme song for all of this journey.

Soon enough Lucky 7/Magnificent 7 was off, fewer in number than normal; but, still sizable. The group headed north as usual and crossed the Santa Monica Pier; but, we turned back at California Avenue due to the Santa Monica Gobble Wobble run! I actually wanted to do that one; but, it was only 5k/10k and too short for training. This also meant no San Vicente Urban Obstacle Course. It was a bit disappointing as I wanted to see how my body reacted to it after doing the Yorba Linda hillwork Thursday. Still, some things never change and my running partner and I talked McCourts gossip again.

The group was soon enough back at the starting point and then headed deep into Venice, well past the Venice Pier. Having British blood and lots of it, I was glad to see Union Jack Street.

Next came my first excursion as a runner to Marina Del Rey. It was very interesting and pretty. Lots of nice condos and hotels. Nice inlets with water. Amazing yachts and boats. I think I could handle living there.

It did pose some interesting challenges with narrow passages necessitating single file running and even stoppages due to oncoming runners/walkers. Also, there was some car dodging.

The group wound through sidestreets and along the yacht anchorages until reaching the Marina Del Rey Marriott and then the library and the turnaround point. Soon, it was back along the same passageways and back to the basecamp at Venice.

I was really happy as I now hold the family record for distance as well as having completed an unofficial half marathon. The group ran 14.2 miles at a 11:58 clip in 2:49. Not bad for a post-Thanksgiving Day cruise.

For me personally it was good as my knee while bothersome did not become beyond use and although I could feel the lactic acid, I was able to keep going and keep with the group, talk, etc. I did use the GU Chomps again during the run to keep my energy level intact.

After stretching Alan the senior pace leader was great and brought out muffins and orange juice for a belated celebration of his birthday as well as Thanksgiving. Then I went to the school for the traditional Gatorade and bananas and even extra bananas as there were lots left over due to people off on holiday.

All in all, it was a good day. I ran and kept up despite some physical obstacles. I like my group. I hope when the pace quickens I will still be alright with it; but, right now, I am and I am doing my midweek running.

Home Run!

Well, Thursday, it was off very dark and early to my parents' house in Orange County. it is quite amazing how little traffic there is on the 10, 60, and 57 at 4;30 a.m.! !Me gusta mucho!

Still, Thanksgiving Day or not, the LA Roadrunners manual for marathon training had a run scheduled. So, once I was back in Yorba Linda, I set off in the weird feeling of a daylight solo run!

It was just incredible, with light Santa Ana winds, sunny, warm, ... very, very nice. Also, lots of real hills to go up and down for extra credit (I wish). I went by my kindergarten school even. Also, the inspirational smell of horse manure ... well, may be that was a drawback.

It was great though being in the homeland and getting to train on some different terrain. There were also some friendly joggers and walkers about, which was a nice change.

I ran 11:46 pace for 41:29 or 3.53 miles according to the Garmin 305 electronic conscience. While I was able to speed up due to running in the light and not having to be careful about tripping in the dark like at home, I was still happy as this run had a lot more hills than normal.

Not a bad way to get Thanksgiving Day going ... home run indeed.

Watch the Turkey Run

One of the questions I have been asked when people find out I am actually training for the Los Angeles Marathon is ... "Are you crazy?" Well, the answer is likely yes; but, not because of the running! So, yet again some turkey was running around early this morning in my neighborhood..

I set out again this morning for the scheduled Roadrunners run of 50 minutes. It started out a bit slowly as my knee was sore and seems to need to be warmed up before it gets feeling better; but, soon I felt a lot better and for the first time this week felt good out there running.

I was doing well pacewise according to the Garmin 305 electronic conscience and also it was nice weather with clear, star-filled skies (for those wondering, Thanksgiving Day weekend traffic at 4 a.m. is non-existent!).

I ran into Los Angeles and then back to Santa Monica, down to Santa Monica Airport, back for some more hillwork, and then over to Virginia Avenue Park and then home. Overall, it felt good and I did well ... 11:58 pace, 4.24 miles and 50:41 run. So, encouraging!

I hope to run in the morning as well as scheduled, just a different spot. Then enjoy a Thanksgiving Day and off Friday.

Hopefully Thanksgiving Day is a day of rest and enjoyment and blessings for all ... and a good day for the Roadrunners!

A Wobble and It's Not Even Thanksgiving

I have run the last two days for the Roadrunners program, opting to take Tuesday as a day off from running. It has been a bit challenging.

Sunday I got up dark and early as usual and just felt listless. I still set out and six minutes in the electronic conscience that is the Garmin 305, started giving a low battery warning and soon upped and quit. So, I was back to the Stone Age of using a wristwatch. My knee was also acting up a bit and there was still some soreness from the almost 13 miler. I still managed to do the assigned 30 minutes; but, it felt more like a survival run than a thrive run.

Monday was a bit better, though my knee was acting up again. I ran up and down the Pico Neighborhood for 3.26 miles in 40:04, a tad slow at 12:18 pace. Still, I was going and with some better luck at traffic lights, I think I could have had a better time.

So, it has been a tad challenging and frustrating the last two days to not be doing and feeling better; but, a marathon is indeed a marathon and not a sprint. I still hope and plan to finish the Los Angeles Marathon on March 21, just may be hoping for a few less days like these.

Week 11: The Almost Run

Saturday was another long group run for the LA Roadrunners training program for the Los Angeles Marathon. The weather, while not as perfect as the week before, was still quite nice with a slight breeze, good temperature, and a good dose of sunshine.

I had gotten a surprisingly good night's sleep and felt ready to go. As I prepared for the day, twirling the ideal, I came upon "California Love" by Dr. Dre and Tupac and with its West Coast, West Side, etc. lyrics, it seemed a good sign.

The groups headed out to the Strand early and without even roll call, Group 7 (Lucky 7/Magnificent 7) was on its way.

I felt a little twinge in my knee but nothing serious and the trot towards the Santa Monica Pier felt comfortable and soon it was the climb up the incline.

It was the usual fun conversation with my running partner as the feet kept moving. Then, police car after police car went speeding by along Ocean Avenue (now known as the finish line!). The group advanced and came to the California Incline where the Santa Monica police actually blocked off traffic. This made the crossing to Adelaide much more interesting as cars were apparently being diverted. The waterstop at the Totem Pole sure helped though.

Again, the group passed the wealthy homes of the area with gorgeous views before turning to San Vicente for the San Vicente Urban Obstacle Course! Luck held again as no one in the group, including myself, fell victim to the signs, grates, holes, roots, and other obstacles. Despite the gradient up San Vicente, I felt good. It is also good to know this is a significant part of the actual 2010 marathon route!

Soon, it was time to turn back at 26th and head back from whence the group came. Again, no problems and I relied on some GU Chomps to see me through. Back down passed the still blocked California Incline and the Pier and onto the Strand, I felt good. The group followed the norm and into some Venice sidestreets and back to the starting point. I do think a pace leader cut the route short a bit though as my electronic conscience Garmin 305 said it was 12.96 miles, so agonizingly close to my goal of doing 13.1 miles and completing an unofficial half-marathon. The pace was good at 11:47 and time of 2:34.29. In fact, the high pace was 9:00! Yeah! Also, the group was definitely speeding up later in the run, rather than slowing. A bit amusing was us going through the finish line for the LA Leggers! They were giving their runners MEDALS! I am not sure if they also did 13.1 or what; but, it was interesting.

The senior pace leader said the group is doing very well and running together. He also warned that some are in way too high of groups and will have problems when the pace is increased. I think I am alright as I pass the self-test questions. I hope I am anyways! He also said to feel free to eat at will over Thanksgiving Day! Ah, guilt-free eating and all it took was running and running and running and running.

For me it was an almost run ... almost 13.1, almost 100% no pain ... I just need March 21 to be not almost.

Afterwards, I did have some "workout soreness" in my calves and quadriceps; but, that is a positive in that it means muscles are building.

A Bit Sluggish

Today was another mid-week training run under the Roadrunners schedule for the Los Angeles Marathon.

It has been really nice in the pre-dawn this week and again this morning it was a star-filled clear sky as I set out for a 45-minute run (added five for missing five yesterday).

Today I did have a little knee pain, especially at the start; but, I came through the run. It did feel a bit sluggish overall. I managed to go to Los Angeles and Santa Monica, under a freeway (the 10), by an airport (Santa Monica), and more.

I managed 3.72 miles in 45:12, a bit slower than the target pace. Today there was a lot of stops at lights and then I forgot to restart the Garmin at one! So, I really ran about 48 minutes. The good points were practicing hillwork and just being out there going about business. It was not the ideal run; but, they can not all be, right?

I Would Run 800 Miles ...

Today was another mid-week run. I misread the schedule though, seeing last week's, and did 45 minutes instead of the new high mark of 50. Still, it was a good run under another star-filled, clear sky. I got in my hillwork and my time and right on pace: 45:10 of running for a pace of 11:58 over 3.78 miles. Because it was a long run and a short night, I used two of the GU Chomps for a little energy boost. I also saw a few early morning arrivals headed into LAX; I checked later and apparently they were part of a wave from Hawaii! I now will also do an extra five minutes tomorrow (45 vs scheduled 40).

I also got an interesting email from the very informative senior pace leader for Group 7 (Lucky 7/Magnificent 7). He said in training we will run over 800 miles! He does seem pleased with the group, which is good.

All of this has me thinking of the Proclaimers song, "I Would Walk 10,000 Miles," just for the Roadrunners and the Los Angeles Marathon, may be it can be changed to "I Will Run 800 Miles So I Can Run 26.2 More."

Spanish Word for Today

While I started training for the Los Angeles Marathon this year, I have been working to learn Spanish for a few years now and poco a poco I am making some progress (or pocito a pocito). One step has been to try to learn one new vocabulary word a day. It can be serious, useful, funny, never-to-be-used, slang, anything.

Today I saw an ad on the back of a bus for a Spanish-language music station in Los Angeles and saw a new word, one that seemed quite fitting ... MARATON!

So: YO QUIERO A CORRER UN MARATON.

Maraton is my word for today!

Nice Start to the Week

With the Roadrunners training guide for the Los Angeles Marathon, it basically tells you when and what to run (when/time/level/distance, etc.). So, they also include offdays ... Monday or Tuesday plus always Friday.



I tend to run on Monday due to scheduling. I set out this morning early (like 04:15). I set out on my more or less chosen 30-minute route around Santa Monica and did feel a bit of "workout" lag at the start; but, this went away as I got more into the run.



It was an amazing scene though with so many stars in a clear sky. It was great. I even encountered a speedwalker out early and we both commented on how perfect conditions were.



I did feel a bit of soreness, more lactic acid than anything, in my calves later; but, it soon went away.



All in all, it was not a bad start to the week.

On Sunday Morning ...

It is Sunday and so another training run. I did not have Gwen Stefani or No Doubt singing "Sunday Morning" in my head though.

The Roadrunners manual called for 30 minutes and so off I went.

It started a bit slow as my legs seemed to have built up some lactic acid overnight; but, once I got moving, it was fine. Plus, the morning was so beautiful. There were dozens of stars in the perfectly clear sky. I was happy and it was a good start for a busy day.

My pace was even better ... 11:52 for 2.71 miles on 32:12. I was pleased that the longest run of my life really seemed to have no major aftereffects! This Los Angeles Marathon is looking possible!

Week 10: The Dirty Dozen!

This week's long run boldly went where I had not gone before ...

It turned out to be an absolutely spectacular morning, crisp, clear and bright. It was magnificent even before setting out on the run. It was time for the weekly Roadrunners trot.

Before heading out on the run, I made my first use of BODYGLIDE ® anti-chafe balm. I have been starting to have problems on the longer runs, especially since I have classic sprinter thighs (i.e. built-up). The idea of having chafing for the Los Angeles Marathon was not a positive one. It was simple to use and turned out to work very well. I am happy to have that issue solved , definitely.

Also, before setting out on the run, I did another experiment and had a Clif Shot chocolate flavor gel. I liked the taste. I do wonder with the gels if they will be messy on a long run or during the marathon. I am also learning that with any of these nutrient combinations during running that it is NOT the Popeye Effect, i.e. an instant burst of energy akin to Popeye's strength increasing after eating a can of spinach. It seems much more just refuelling like with a car. I had no problems with the gel and any aftereffects, which was a good sign.

During this run I was back to the GU strawberry chomps, the ones I think of as Gummibears. I feel comfortable with them now and since this was my longest run ever did not want to experiment too much. They seemed to work well. They are bulkier than the gels; but, they are also cleaner.

The run itself was incredible. I felt much more relaxed and better than the previous cutback week. My running partner and I had a fun conversation as we rolled up to the Santa Monica Pier and onwards to the north of Santa Monica

I just felt so good. My knee was not an issue. I was enjoying the ocean views, the waves, and even the crazy people. Soon, my Group 7 was at The Totem Pole.

Then it was off to the edge of the abyss, Adelaide Street, with nice canyon views and big homes. Shortly, it was on to San Vicente Boulevard. I opted to run down the median preferring grass to concrete due to prior bouts of shin splints.

It was really fun running down the median, with the extra challenges of avoiding tree limbs, roots, signs, and metal grates/holes. This led to a game with people near me of calling out hazards. SIGN! ROOT! HOLE! SIGN! SIGN! HOLE! and on and on. This continued until the turnaround at 26th Street.

I also managed a soccer move! A pinecone fell suddenly right at my right foot. Instinctively I managed to sweep it off to the side in a single motion. Ah, the wonders of being a fullback.

I felt so comfortable I had not noticed the incline, which turning around I suddenly saw! The good part was turning back was downhill. It meant we were also running the last four miles of the marathon route, which is reassuring.

Heading down San Vicente, we soon saw the ocean, meaning Ocean Avenue and the final turn of the marathon! What a sight with the azure ocean and sky. Running down the street I also picked what I hope will be the landmark to start a final sprint ... California Avenue! .4 miles from the finish line on Santa Monica Boulevard.

The group continued down on to the pier and back south along the boardwalk. Soon, after a small excursion to Venice sidestreets, it was back to Windward and the finish. I felt fantastic. I had run my longest run ever and had energy left for more. The stretching was done and it was off for the now traditional Gatorade and bananas.

A few hours later I did feel a bit sore; but, it was the good "workout" sore vs. the bad pain. I was just happy to know I had come this far. It is not 26.2; but, 12.1 is still pretty good compared to April level.

My group finished 12.11 miles at a 12;04 pace in 2:26:08. That includes when we slowed for water stations, red lights, etc. Towards the end we definitely sped up and I kept up!

The film The Dirty Dozen has a theme of a bunch of misfits being trained to a common goal: killing Germans. Roadrunners takes people and one misfit, namely me, and trains us for a common goal, the marathon. So, for me this Saturday was The Dirty Dozen, 12 miles!

Friday the 13th

Today, as are all Fridays, is an off-day for the LA Roadrunners training for the Los Angeles Marathon, since Saturday is the long-run day.

Although the extra hour of sleep is always welcome, it does feel weird. My legs actually feel "heavy" today and I think it might be due to NOT running this morning.

Shame really as 13 is my lucky number ... and the way this year has gone for me (i.e. a disaster), I would likely have had a great run! Aye, Friday the 13th ...

Thursday Trial Run

This morning was another training run, a 40-minute trip according to the schedule.

I again tried the GU Energy Gel Espresso Love variety before setting out and again no problems digesting it. Overall, it was a fairly smooth run, which was a good sign for Saturday.

I am also learning where the sidewalk is uneven, which is proving important in the pre-dawn!

It is still a strange feeling seeing a mostly empty Pico Boulevard. There is usually activity around Trader Joe's; but, otherwise, I see few people at all besides the odd driver passing.

I took out a street map and began looking at the course. It should be challenging, as if 26.2 miles would ever be easy, but fun as well. Godwilling, come March 21, I will be on that Ocean Avenue straightaway, sensing the end of the Los Angeles Marathon ... and feeling the need!

Gu for You? Gu for me!

This morning was the longest training run for the week, excluding Saturday obviously.

I was up dark and early and headed out, with a new twist. I tried a GU Energy Gel before starting. It was "Espresso Love" flavor. It tasted alright, a bit like honey to me. I am not exactly a frequent visitor to Starbucks and know next to nothing about espresso; but, I thought I would give it a try, especially as the wrapper said it had caffeine. The Roadrunners pace leaders and visiting nutritionist had mentioned the GU as well as caffeine in their talks and advice sessions. They also said it could sometimes upset stomachs; so, I thought I would try it on a relatively short jaunt.

I felt pretty comfortable trotting around the Pico Neighborhood. It is amazing how open it feels without the traffic.

I also did not have any trouble with the GU Energy Gel at all. I am not sure if it had much of an effect energy-wise, though, for a relatively short run. It does seem like it would be a bit sticky trying to keep using them throughout a real long run or the Los Angeles Marathon; but, I will continue experimenting and trying them. I did like my trial of the GU Chomps, which kind of reminded me of a runner's form of Gummibears! I also plan to test the Bloks.

I was also pretty happy that my knee seems to be slowly improving. There are still times of pain; but, it is less often and less severe.

Anyways, I ran 3.78 miles in 46:10, which is not too bad. I added some hillwork as well, which I am being reminded of as I see Temple in downtown Los Angeles as well as thinking about prior trips to Dodger Stadium.

It was also a bit of a reflective run since it is Remembrance Day and Veterans' Day ... Lest We Forget.

The Course of Course

Since the Los Angeles Marathon released information on the course for 2010, I have started paying closer attention to the relevant areas.

For example, this morning I went past Temple in downtown Los Angeles and the Cathedral of Our Lady Queen of the Angels. Thinking of it now much more in running terms I noticed it is will be uphill trek there. (Hence, the need for Roadrunners hill training!)

I also can not get Randy Newman's "I Love L.A." song out of my head, especially "Santa Monica Boulevard ... WE LOVE IT!" Maybe I can get Sheryl Crowe's "All I Wanna Do" with its reference to Santa Monica Boulevard as a mentally-playing alternate?

Oh well, the game continues ...

Weekly Training

One of the things the Roadrunners program strongly urges is training during the week. They are very good about providing detailed information by stage of running, when, and how much to do. (It does get a bit puzzling as it keeps changing!).

I think I can tell on the long runs who is not doing or only partially doing the training. Illness is one thing; but, I think, especially for beginners, you need to be committed and TRULY committed (perhaps to a mental hospital after for even starting ...).

With a new work schedule and some other obligations, it has been a bit of a struggle finding time; but, I have found a general time slot: pre-dawn, as in waking up (more or less) at 04:00. One thing at that time is the sidewalks and roads are much less crowded for some reason.

So, I ran Sunday and Monday ... and am a bit happy as my electronic conscience Garmin 305 says I was fairly consistent with a run of 2.55 miles (with some hillwork) in 30:24 on Sunday and 2.55 miles (with some hillwork) in 30:42 on Monday!

Now, with the course basically set I think it will be a bit more energizing as I can start to picture places. I am glad it will pass the Cathedral of Our Lady Queen of the Angels and may be La Placita as it goes through El Pueblo de Los Angeles. It will go past my old office building in Century City (oh, joy) and more.

This could be fun ...

Target for Today ...

The Los Angeles Marathon released the course today ...

http://www.lamarathon.com/event/course-map/

So, now I can start visualizing this as I do know parts of the course. Interestingly, the web site suggests planning my strategy ... I think I have mine already: FINISH THE RUN!

Week 9: Five Mile Milk Run ... Until the End!

This was the latest cut-back week; so, it was a now modest five miles on the schedule for the Roadrunners Los Angeles Marathon plan. It was a "milk run" run.

It has been a difficult week for many reasons and the energy was just lacking. I think may be the fact that I KNEW I could do five miles and had done it before perhaps lessened the enthusiasm.

At least the session started with the Roadrunner cadence which helped. Motivation. Dedication. Aye.

The morning was semi-overcast to match my energy level. Still, Group 7 (Lucky 7/Magnificent 7) was off and headed north going along the Strand to the water stop (with the weekly promises of menudo and/or coffee and doughnuts from Captain Jesus). Then it was up the Santa Monica Pier and further north to Wilshire. As is the new tradition, I kept my cap backwards from Ocean Avenue to Santa Monica Blvd. and vice versa on the return. My group partner and I had another discussion on the Dodgers and the McCourts debacle.

It seemed like a normal return leg when the group seemed noticeably faster through to the end. It turns out the reason why it seemed noticeably faster was because the group was noticeably faster; the pace leaders changed it to race pace for the last mile! So, it was nice to feel some relative speed. I need my sprinter/semi-sprinter fix!

My Garmin electronic conscience said it was really 5.61 miles (vs. scheduled five) in 1:04:24 for a 11:29 overall pace.

Afterwards, I spoke with the senior pace leader and he said they were pleased as the group responded and no one fell off the faster pace. He also said he felt if the group was going on race pace the entire way on a longer run, they would normally see up to 50% drop out/back rate.

Anyways, it was more Gatorade and bananas and then a presentation nutrition with a list of vitamins I had never heard of and seemed a bit intimidating to me as well as my wallet.

I am glad I ran as I needed it; but, the sense of achievement for setting a new high in distance was gone obviously. This week's run was more just survive than thrive; but, may be that is a good thing every few weeks so the edge is there when needed.

Night Run

Last night, I did something different for the scheduled Los Angeles Marathon training run; I ran at night. Running in the dark was nothing new since I have been doing most pre-dawn. I did it for two reasons: one easy one of wanting an extra hour of sleep in the morning and one not so easy ... there was yet another fatal shooting in my neighborhood Tuesday night at about the same time as I headed out Thursday night.

My neighborhood in Santa Monica has seen a lot of violence in the 10 years I have lived there. Teens and young men being killed, four being very, very close (as in within a block). I have basically become accustomed to vigil candles and stunned teenagers. It is not pleasant obviously. Murders are not.

So, I decided to run because I needed to and also because I wanted to. I wanted to show that the vermin who cause this mayhem and tragedy can not rule the streets.

Off I went past the basically and eerily deserted Virginia Avenue Park. Normally there would be basketball games and such; but, not Thursday night. It was noticeable how many police cars were patrolling the area.

I headed down the side streets, trusting my Garmin electronic conscience to keep me on pace or close to it. I then headed south to Ocean Park Avenue and a niceish commercial area, even with a lot of empty offices. I ran down a sidestreet and towards Santa Monica Airport.

While running past I noticed the business jets, including a Gulfstream G-IV which costs well in excess of $20 million.

It was just a strange run. I felt a bit sluggish, perhaps because it has been a hard week on many fronts. Still, it felt good to be on the Night Run.

Monday ... It Comes After Sunday

This is a cut-back week, meaning it is the week before the final training run for Phase 2 under the Roadrunners schedule for the Los Angeles Marathon.


Because of scheduling needs, I decided to run Monday instead of Tuesday. I tried out a new route; so, it made it a bit more interesting.

It seemed a bit "off" with the time change; but, it went well. I was told also to stop the Garmin unit on stops; so, did my best ... though forgot to restart it once!

So, the end ... officially 2.57 miles in 32:17.

Me vs. the Electronic Conscience

Well, it was Sunday today and the revised Roadrunners schedule has us on aerobic running now. So, off dark and early I went, with my new running friend, the Garmin 305.

I am still working things out with it. It seems a tad distracting checking my wrist, especially as all those sprint years have you focus dead ahead and ONLY dead ahead. Also, the pace monitor has me a bit perplexed. I try to run at the 12:00 target pace; but, with the realities of running on streets with stop signs, traffic lights, etc. even pre-dawn, it is hard and suddenly my electronic running conscience says I am off pace badly! So, being intent on returning to the target pace, ... I SPRINT! That is what I am not supposed to be doing ... not that I mind it mind you. This looks like a question for the paceleaders.

So, my 30:55 minutes of running yielded 2.13 miles. Overall, I was happy and may be that is what the key is to this whole experience.

Week 8: Halloween X-Rated Run!

Saturday marked my eighth Saturday training for the Los Angeles Marathon with the Roadrunners. It also marked Halloween! Even better, it was my X-Rated Run! Before I left home, I was happy to catch U2's "Where the Streets Have No Name" on the radio and the line "I want to run ..." It will not be my "official" theme song for the marathon; but, i do like it and it fits.

It was a rather odd start with many runners and leaders missing. There was no rallying chant which was a bit disappointing.

It was just a beautiful day, unlike the previous week's fog, which would have been more fitting for Halloween. My group headed off to the north. One of the pace leaders was dressed in a 1970s disco-type outfit ... truly scary. Three of my old group's leaders dressed up as well. I was a bit more cautious and dressed as a marathon runner ... no one would believe it though. As the group headed off, I began wondering who in Venice was in costume and who was not. I also saw a friend from church and jokingly invited him to join the fun.

This was the longest run of my life, scheduled for 10 miles. I was a bit nervous; but, I also felt some excitement. It is obviously not 26.2; but, personal records still count in my mind.

My knee overall has been better the last few weeks. It has its odd flareups, especially after prolonged time in a seat; but, it is much better than before and my ankle pain from summer is gone thankfully.

The trip up the Santa Monica Pier and Ocean Avenue really felt comfortable. I was using a new type of energy food for a trial and it seems to work as well. The group headed to the new Totem Pole landmark (where I touched the claws for luck) and then on to Adelaide for the turning point.

This week, my line partner warned he was a bit cautious with his calf; but, he made it and we had a nice chat along the way on baseball, the McCourts, Alberta, etc. He did break off early at eight miles; but, he did well.

Then it was off into Venice's sidestreets, including the non-sprinting Speedway and eventually the turnaround point there at Lighthouse Street for the short return leg home.

My group, officially Lucky 7 or my Magnificent 7, went on a 11:48 pace for 10.24 miles in 2:00:53! (So sayeth my Garmin 305).

I was happy. It felt great to be able to go that far and feel like I could go even further! Later in the day I had a little soreness in my thighs and calves; but, I felt the return of the old track feeling of joy as it meant a good workout. Even better was it was not sharp or even lasting too long. So, that is my X-Rated run ... X being for the BIG TEN miles ...