After about 15 minutes of trudging forward, LA Roadrunners Group 7 hit the official starting line and I activated my Garmin. I was running the Los Angeles Marathon.
The Dodger Stadium start felt familiar after two Roadrunners training sessions plus attending Dodgers games over the years.
What was striking was very quickly Group 7 was totally separated. Normally, we were very good about staying intact, even when lost or running circles. Now, we were totally fractured. I formed a little group with Danny, Pete and James and we set out while trying to find the rest of Lucky 7. Another striking moment was seeing a runner already down on her back getting medical aid ... and we had barely even begun let alone left the stadium! Still, we passed Mile 1 on the loop and a half and headed towards the Elysian Park exit. As we reached Sunset, the normal Dodgers billboards had been changed to say "Good Luck" to the marathoners from the Dodgers. Nice!
Our little group was cruising along at about a 10:50 pace. One problem was just the sheer volume of human traffic. The self-regulating pace placement idea seems to have been considered optional and a lot of time and extra steps were used in going around walkers and very slow runners. Sometimes, people were holding hands, creating a very tempting Red Rover situation. By Mile 2, my Garmin was already saying we had run .2 miles extra.
At this point it was difficult to even keep or small group together, particularly at water stops. Still, we managed and did things like the Roadrunners chant. We also started passing landmarks like the gate to Chinatown and La Placita.
Next came Downtown Los Angeles. There were also some hills ... big hills. It is amazing turning a corner seeing a sizable hill swarming with people. The traffic made it difficult to keep momentum going and thus made the hills harder. We passed the Cathedral as well as City Hall and other downtown buildings.
Then, it was into the Sunset and Echo Park area. Here, I began to struggle some. My knee was beginning to get sore. It also made it harder to keep with the group whenever we split in traffic. The sprinting and frantic searching took a toll. Eventually, I realized this was not going to work well. Soon enough, it did not at all ... all the time I had been used to a group for long runs. Now, I was actually on the longest run and it was quite different. I was running alone amidst 25,000 runners.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Run in Feet, Dream in Miles.
Today I went to the Victory Run that the LA Roadrunners had suggested. Los Angeles Marathon ... conquered.
We met at the Totem Pole, famous as our good luck point in training when northbound. I quickly saw several Group 7 paceleaders and some of the veterans! Nice feeling. We all had our medals, well-deserved.
One of the coaches commented our new base level was ... 26.2 miles, to much applause.
After some introductions and congratulations, we set out on kind of a fun, do-it-yourself 4-Miler. It was a bit odd heading south to start!
I partnered up with another Group 7er and we had a leisurely run and enjoyed it. We also told of our marathon stories and happily talked about how we were so glad today's heat was not the same temperature as last Sunday!
On return, we had some muffins, pretzels, and Gatorade! I then signed up for the LA Running Club ... Run in Feet, Dream in Miles.
43.37 of running
4.12 miles
10:34 pace
We met at the Totem Pole, famous as our good luck point in training when northbound. I quickly saw several Group 7 paceleaders and some of the veterans! Nice feeling. We all had our medals, well-deserved.
One of the coaches commented our new base level was ... 26.2 miles, to much applause.
After some introductions and congratulations, we set out on kind of a fun, do-it-yourself 4-Miler. It was a bit odd heading south to start!
I partnered up with another Group 7er and we had a leisurely run and enjoyed it. We also told of our marathon stories and happily talked about how we were so glad today's heat was not the same temperature as last Sunday!
On return, we had some muffins, pretzels, and Gatorade! I then signed up for the LA Running Club ... Run in Feet, Dream in Miles.
43.37 of running
4.12 miles
10:34 pace
Friday, March 26, 2010
My Marathon : Part I
Well, at last, March 21 came. It was THE DAY I had been waiting for and preparing for over two years (well, technically 2009 and 2010 ... so two years!).
I got up dark and even earlier than normal at a crisp 01:40. I was stunned as I actually got some sleep; I had expected to be awake and the paceleaders said expect to be nervous.
I got up, rubbed my eyes, and ate some cereal. Then I started to get my gear on; I used my Canadian heritage and did not take a lot of clothing to keep warm in the pre-dawn "cold."
I had on pretty close to my gear for a normal Saturday training run. I did put on the red and white LA Roadrunners Group 7 hat. I also had a water bottle with me and more energy gels and such than usual; so, my running belt was heavier than I am used to and prefer.
Next it was how to get to Dodger Stadium. fearing traffic after the race and not wanting to pay $17 anyways to park, I opted to park at St. Anne's. (Being a parishioner and volunteer helps at times!). I then walked from 20th and Colorado to Main and Olympic, by Santa Monica City Hall.
It was kind of eerily quiet at first; but, warm enough and my idea of staying in the shirt only proved correct.
I had my first little glitch when the draw string on my checked kit bag separated from the bag. Things like this are why I like to leave early!
I started seeing signs mentioning the marathon, mostly about street closures and parking. I also saw activity! 3 a.m. on a Sunday? What could be happening? What kind of idiot is out at that time of morning?
I turned the corner onto main and saw a group of buses, nice buses! No banana buses for this one. The volunteers were very friendly and encouraging and wished me good luck and even said, "Sir." Wow! All you have to do is sign up for this thing and you get treated well!
I got on a bus and took a seat. There were may be 10-15 others when we left right on schedule at 03:30. Soon enough, it was on the familiar 10 East. Some talked a lot; some were laughing. I was just kind of reflecting and taking it in as an experience.
Soon enough, the bus arrived at Dodger Stadium. It was still very early; so, not many people were there. I just followed some other people. I headed off to the long row of portable toilets I had seen Saturday initially. I then began some preparations ... BodyGlide, sun tan oil, etc.
I then wandered a bit, unsure what to do. I found center field was open. So, I went in and stood on the grass again. having done it at Roadrunners, it was not quite as new; but, it was still fun. I also got to go on the infield this time!
The gear check was still closed; so, I was a bit confused as to what to do. The Roadrunners had said come to the meeting point after checking the gear.
So, I sat outside the stadium and ate my bananas for breakfast II as suggested by the paceleaders. I also noticed quite a few Santa Monica Police Department vehicles. Ah, home!
I also saw some people in Roadrunners' shirts. It was nice seeing the familiar colors.
I wandered around some more and noticed more people were arriving. Eventually, the gear check opened and I handed in my bag.
Next, I went into the stadium. The Roadrunners had been told we would have a special section as well as restrooms. Well, we got the special section and I found Group 7. The restrooms ... well, not quite. My power orange LARR wristband suddenly seemed unimportant.
I took a seat and began relaxing. It was good to see a few familiar faces.
A little while later one of the crew, Pete, came. We started talking and joking. Not exactly game face, I guess. He had missed hill training day I; so, missed they playing around on the outfield. So, he asked how to get down there ... and we both went again. Hey, I am a Dodgers fan and I will take the opportunity to get out there, race or not.
Then James came. The crew was filling in. I went to search for a restroom for a short line ... still searching! Where was the Roadrunners' special?
Then Danny came. Hey, it is just like Saturday.
We noticed the faster groups were starting to stir and get gathered and some even leaving.
Then my original partner, Alex, came by. It was great to see him. He was running despite being told he risked permanent damage from his injuries. Good guy.
Right after that group 7 moved out and headed down the concourse to leave the stadium. We were following a big blue and a big gold 7 balloons.
But, then again .... WE ARE GROUP 7. So, the group got mixed up amidst Roadrunners groups as well as non-Roadrunners and those in the back, including me, took a wrong turn. Fortunately, one of the Roadrunners administrators caught sight of us and steered us back in the right direction and we then saw the balloons.
Our little group joined up with the rest of Group 7 in the huge standard runner corral. It was incredible.
Our group was loose. We were joking ... a lot. We made jokes about everything. When they announced Chef Gordon Ramsay was running ... jokes. When they named the official starters as Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Frank McCourt ... well, loads of jokes. (Along the lines of hide the female reporters from the mayor ...).
We also noticed the massive lines for portable toilets. Incredible! Then, we saw the large number of people climbing the hills of Dodger Stadium to go take care of business in the bushes. The L.A. P.D. could have solved the city's deficit by ticketing people!'
It got serious a bit more when the wheelchair races began. Those competitors are amazing.
Then came the fun ... an announcement about the start being delayed due to people parking their cars ... ON THE FREEWAY! Apparently, traffic had been so heavy and people so desperate to get going that they were just parking on the freeway and climbing over the fence of the stadium! Unbelievable. So, it added like 25 minutes to the start and we were told 7:47 a.m. target (the jokes about Boeing being a sponsor began).
The elite women's race began. They get an 18 minute head start over the elite men in a race for a bonus $100,000.
We then prepared ourselves ... Finally, the race for the elite men began, The loudspeakers also played "I Love L.A.,"a song I like normally. We were then told we would slowly head to the actual start (and slow it was). By the time we got to the starting line, it was like 15 minutes later ... after hearing that song eight times in a row, I was beginning to go crazy!
Then we began ....
I got up dark and even earlier than normal at a crisp 01:40. I was stunned as I actually got some sleep; I had expected to be awake and the paceleaders said expect to be nervous.
I got up, rubbed my eyes, and ate some cereal. Then I started to get my gear on; I used my Canadian heritage and did not take a lot of clothing to keep warm in the pre-dawn "cold."
I had on pretty close to my gear for a normal Saturday training run. I did put on the red and white LA Roadrunners Group 7 hat. I also had a water bottle with me and more energy gels and such than usual; so, my running belt was heavier than I am used to and prefer.
Next it was how to get to Dodger Stadium. fearing traffic after the race and not wanting to pay $17 anyways to park, I opted to park at St. Anne's. (Being a parishioner and volunteer helps at times!). I then walked from 20th and Colorado to Main and Olympic, by Santa Monica City Hall.
It was kind of eerily quiet at first; but, warm enough and my idea of staying in the shirt only proved correct.
I had my first little glitch when the draw string on my checked kit bag separated from the bag. Things like this are why I like to leave early!
I started seeing signs mentioning the marathon, mostly about street closures and parking. I also saw activity! 3 a.m. on a Sunday? What could be happening? What kind of idiot is out at that time of morning?
I turned the corner onto main and saw a group of buses, nice buses! No banana buses for this one. The volunteers were very friendly and encouraging and wished me good luck and even said, "Sir." Wow! All you have to do is sign up for this thing and you get treated well!
I got on a bus and took a seat. There were may be 10-15 others when we left right on schedule at 03:30. Soon enough, it was on the familiar 10 East. Some talked a lot; some were laughing. I was just kind of reflecting and taking it in as an experience.
Soon enough, the bus arrived at Dodger Stadium. It was still very early; so, not many people were there. I just followed some other people. I headed off to the long row of portable toilets I had seen Saturday initially. I then began some preparations ... BodyGlide, sun tan oil, etc.
I then wandered a bit, unsure what to do. I found center field was open. So, I went in and stood on the grass again. having done it at Roadrunners, it was not quite as new; but, it was still fun. I also got to go on the infield this time!
The gear check was still closed; so, I was a bit confused as to what to do. The Roadrunners had said come to the meeting point after checking the gear.
So, I sat outside the stadium and ate my bananas for breakfast II as suggested by the paceleaders. I also noticed quite a few Santa Monica Police Department vehicles. Ah, home!
I also saw some people in Roadrunners' shirts. It was nice seeing the familiar colors.
I wandered around some more and noticed more people were arriving. Eventually, the gear check opened and I handed in my bag.
Next, I went into the stadium. The Roadrunners had been told we would have a special section as well as restrooms. Well, we got the special section and I found Group 7. The restrooms ... well, not quite. My power orange LARR wristband suddenly seemed unimportant.
I took a seat and began relaxing. It was good to see a few familiar faces.
A little while later one of the crew, Pete, came. We started talking and joking. Not exactly game face, I guess. He had missed hill training day I; so, missed they playing around on the outfield. So, he asked how to get down there ... and we both went again. Hey, I am a Dodgers fan and I will take the opportunity to get out there, race or not.
Then James came. The crew was filling in. I went to search for a restroom for a short line ... still searching! Where was the Roadrunners' special?
Then Danny came. Hey, it is just like Saturday.
We noticed the faster groups were starting to stir and get gathered and some even leaving.
Then my original partner, Alex, came by. It was great to see him. He was running despite being told he risked permanent damage from his injuries. Good guy.
Right after that group 7 moved out and headed down the concourse to leave the stadium. We were following a big blue and a big gold 7 balloons.
But, then again .... WE ARE GROUP 7. So, the group got mixed up amidst Roadrunners groups as well as non-Roadrunners and those in the back, including me, took a wrong turn. Fortunately, one of the Roadrunners administrators caught sight of us and steered us back in the right direction and we then saw the balloons.
Our little group joined up with the rest of Group 7 in the huge standard runner corral. It was incredible.
Our group was loose. We were joking ... a lot. We made jokes about everything. When they announced Chef Gordon Ramsay was running ... jokes. When they named the official starters as Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Frank McCourt ... well, loads of jokes. (Along the lines of hide the female reporters from the mayor ...).
We also noticed the massive lines for portable toilets. Incredible! Then, we saw the large number of people climbing the hills of Dodger Stadium to go take care of business in the bushes. The L.A. P.D. could have solved the city's deficit by ticketing people!'
It got serious a bit more when the wheelchair races began. Those competitors are amazing.
Then came the fun ... an announcement about the start being delayed due to people parking their cars ... ON THE FREEWAY! Apparently, traffic had been so heavy and people so desperate to get going that they were just parking on the freeway and climbing over the fence of the stadium! Unbelievable. So, it added like 25 minutes to the start and we were told 7:47 a.m. target (the jokes about Boeing being a sponsor began).
The elite women's race began. They get an 18 minute head start over the elite men in a race for a bonus $100,000.
We then prepared ourselves ... Finally, the race for the elite men began, The loudspeakers also played "I Love L.A.,"a song I like normally. We were then told we would slowly head to the actual start (and slow it was). By the time we got to the starting line, it was like 15 minutes later ... after hearing that song eight times in a row, I was beginning to go crazy!
Then we began ....
Thursday, March 25, 2010
After the Big Day
It has been interesting seeing the comments from the LA Roadrunners paceleaders and other members of Group 7 and my old group, Group 8.
It is kind of slowly sinking in just how big a deal it is to finish the marathon. I had always been so time-oriented as a sprinter at Servite and on other runs that just being happy about finishing was never even considered.
Now, I read of people who did not make it, got hurt, needed hospitalization, ... I made it!
I made it to complete the Los Angeles Marathon.
As the senior pace leader said, we can all now say, "I am a marathoner."
It is kind of slowly sinking in just how big a deal it is to finish the marathon. I had always been so time-oriented as a sprinter at Servite and on other runs that just being happy about finishing was never even considered.
Now, I read of people who did not make it, got hurt, needed hospitalization, ... I made it!
I made it to complete the Los Angeles Marathon.
As the senior pace leader said, we can all now say, "I am a marathoner."
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Now what?
I am still putting together "my marathon;" but, I am also thinking now what ...
I definitely want to run next year's Los Angeles Marathon and do LA Roadrunners (not sure which group). I also have to find a way to get my knee better. I also want to find some other events.
I definitely want to run next year's Los Angeles Marathon and do LA Roadrunners (not sure which group). I also have to find a way to get my knee better. I also want to find some other events.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Still contemplating
I am still thinking about the Los Angeles Marathon and the LA Roadrunners' journey.
Still, I have been reading the comments from Group 7 and 8.
Some did not finish. Some ended up in the hospital.
I guess I was fortunate.
Still, I have been reading the comments from Group 7 and 8.
Some did not finish. Some ended up in the hospital.
I guess I was fortunate.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Due to Technical Difficulties
Well, I still do not know my official time ...
Apparently, there are issues with some Roadrunners' times appearing ... and I am one of them!
Doh.
All I can say is I DID run it! I finished the Los Angeles Marathon.
I know I did.
Now, just to be able to see it.
Apparently, there are issues with some Roadrunners' times appearing ... and I am one of them!
Doh.
All I can say is I DID run it! I finished the Los Angeles Marathon.
I know I did.
Now, just to be able to see it.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Marathon I
I DID IT!
More when I get a chance; but, I did it. I actually ran the Los Angeles Marathon.
More when I get a chance; but, I did it. I actually ran the Los Angeles Marathon.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Final Countdown
This morning was my last pre-marathon run ...
I followed the LA Roadrunners schedule and was assigned ... 10 minutes. A 10 minute misconduct?
Anyways, I set out and did pretty well. My knee is sore though.
The paceleaders have said we may be a little tight and sore since we have tapered back so much on running.
This morning ....
13:36 of running
1.31 whopping miles
10:24 pace ... BINGO
I checked my Garmin's totals since I got it ...
Since, October 25, I have run (minus one run where its battery conked out)
463.4 miles
92:05.53 of running
64,020 calories
So, with the extra weeks ...
Not bad, eh?
Diosmediante, I am ready. I can do this thing.
Bring on the Los Angeles Marathon.
CREDO.
I followed the LA Roadrunners schedule and was assigned ... 10 minutes. A 10 minute misconduct?
Anyways, I set out and did pretty well. My knee is sore though.
The paceleaders have said we may be a little tight and sore since we have tapered back so much on running.
This morning ....
13:36 of running
1.31 whopping miles
10:24 pace ... BINGO
I checked my Garmin's totals since I got it ...
Since, October 25, I have run (minus one run where its battery conked out)
463.4 miles
92:05.53 of running
64,020 calories
So, with the extra weeks ...
Not bad, eh?
Diosmediante, I am ready. I can do this thing.
Bring on the Los Angeles Marathon.
CREDO.
Getting Ready
This morning I headed off for Dodger Stadium and the running expo to get set for the Los Angeles Marathon. On the way there, I listened to the soundtrack for my favorite movie, "Chariots of Fire."
It was a little confusing; but, I got sorted out. As mentioned by my pace leader, the bib has some wrong information ... seems I am now 68 years old. Still a male though!
The show was interesting. Lots of people. Lots of displays. Lots of free samples. Lots of other races. I did win a free meal at Rubios! Yeah. I did see Frank McCourt as well as they were doing a 5K and then a children's race.
I saw the NPN Nutrition guy who comes to the LA Roadrunners.
Kind of nice was I saw my senior pace leader ... and he was nice and encouraging as usual.
I wore my Servite shirt and ran into a few of the family.
On the way back, I passed Marathon Street! I also saw a nice Dodgers billboard saying Good Luck! Excellent.
Then it was the theme song all the way home ...
It was a little confusing; but, I got sorted out. As mentioned by my pace leader, the bib has some wrong information ... seems I am now 68 years old. Still a male though!
The show was interesting. Lots of people. Lots of displays. Lots of free samples. Lots of other races. I did win a free meal at Rubios! Yeah. I did see Frank McCourt as well as they were doing a 5K and then a children's race.
I saw the NPN Nutrition guy who comes to the LA Roadrunners.
Kind of nice was I saw my senior pace leader ... and he was nice and encouraging as usual.
I wore my Servite shirt and ran into a few of the family.
On the way back, I passed Marathon Street! I also saw a nice Dodgers billboard saying Good Luck! Excellent.
Then it was the theme song all the way home ...
Friday, March 19, 2010
Decorations
I am not much of an artist; reality is I am terrible. I can write; but, otherwise, no artistic skills at all. (Stick figures are my crowning achievement in class).
I have been doing a little bit though preparing. I put some marks on the shoes I will be using. (Well, besides the already present blood stain).
Likely, anyone looking at the words and symbols would not make any sense of it; but, I think the whole marathon process, while working as a Roadrunner and a team, is individual. I know what they mean and why they are there. I know what the letters are for; I know how the blood got there.
I want to have those thoughts with me. I want them to help get me to the finish line of the Los Angeles Marathon.
I have been doing a little bit though preparing. I put some marks on the shoes I will be using. (Well, besides the already present blood stain).
Likely, anyone looking at the words and symbols would not make any sense of it; but, I think the whole marathon process, while working as a Roadrunner and a team, is individual. I know what they mean and why they are there. I know what the letters are for; I know how the blood got there.
I want to have those thoughts with me. I want them to help get me to the finish line of the Los Angeles Marathon.
Target for Tonight ...
Target for Tonight is a phrase R.A.F. Bomber Command used to use before setting off on a mission in World War II against the bad guys. Those guys were tough, loyal, and resilient and committed to completing the mission.
I hope I can be like them Sunday. I have not had the best week of sleep between events, work, and just some nerves (plus stupidly drinking a sports drink right before trying to sleep!). So, Target for Tonight: SLEEP!
I have been trying to mentally prepare. I now am facing the idea of heat ... not a pleasant one.
Also, normally, this weekend I would be in Anaheim for the Religious Education Congress and right near my old native land ... and Servite. So, I am trying to do the next best thing ... bring Servite to me!
First, I found out a classmate is running as well. That's two of us! The brethren are present. if you are not a Friar, it does not make sense ... if you are ... well, you know.
Second, I am thinking back to how I did things at Servite Track. Different races; different strategies ... I remember some of the key moments and our training,. The Bowl. Glover. STICK! Hell Week. We were taught the mantras: Mind over Matter; If You Do Not Mind the Pain; It Does Not Matter. Mind Over Matter; if You Do Not Mind the Heat; It Does Not Matter. We were a pretty tough crew.
I also remember for whatever reason I always ran my best in the worst conditions: very hot, very "cold," or messed up track. I have no idea why; but, I did. It became a matter of pride!
I want to have that feeling Sunday. I am not bringing warm-up gear; I want to feel the "cold." I am 1/2 Canadian after all! My focus will be moving forward. I may struggle; but, I will work.
Servite sports also were big on team. LA Roadrunners is not quite there (we were basically brothers on the teams at Servite); but, it has some similarities.
I want to run to complete the ThinkCure! pledges and remember what happened in 2009. I want to be able to go past my old office where I was discarded like garbage ... and show them it did not break me. I will complete the Los Angeles Marathon.
I also remember the first time I ran a 3.5 at track I struggled; I struggled the last two miles of the 20-miler as well. But, I learned lessons. I am also feeling better now. I think I can do better.
I have also got a mental boost set-up. I do not think anyone will be there watching me; so, I will be my own support.
I am trying to do my best to eat right, drink the water, etc.; but, I also am doing my mental work.
For me, Servite is important. It taught me so much, besides academics.
On Sunday I will be thinking as a Friar once again.
DESIRE.
DEDICATION.
DETERMINATION.
DISCIPLINE.
WE ARE SERVITE.
CREDO.
I hope I can be like them Sunday. I have not had the best week of sleep between events, work, and just some nerves (plus stupidly drinking a sports drink right before trying to sleep!). So, Target for Tonight: SLEEP!
I have been trying to mentally prepare. I now am facing the idea of heat ... not a pleasant one.
Also, normally, this weekend I would be in Anaheim for the Religious Education Congress and right near my old native land ... and Servite. So, I am trying to do the next best thing ... bring Servite to me!
First, I found out a classmate is running as well. That's two of us! The brethren are present. if you are not a Friar, it does not make sense ... if you are ... well, you know.
Second, I am thinking back to how I did things at Servite Track. Different races; different strategies ... I remember some of the key moments and our training,. The Bowl. Glover. STICK! Hell Week. We were taught the mantras: Mind over Matter; If You Do Not Mind the Pain; It Does Not Matter. Mind Over Matter; if You Do Not Mind the Heat; It Does Not Matter. We were a pretty tough crew.
I also remember for whatever reason I always ran my best in the worst conditions: very hot, very "cold," or messed up track. I have no idea why; but, I did. It became a matter of pride!
I want to have that feeling Sunday. I am not bringing warm-up gear; I want to feel the "cold." I am 1/2 Canadian after all! My focus will be moving forward. I may struggle; but, I will work.
Servite sports also were big on team. LA Roadrunners is not quite there (we were basically brothers on the teams at Servite); but, it has some similarities.
I want to run to complete the ThinkCure! pledges and remember what happened in 2009. I want to be able to go past my old office where I was discarded like garbage ... and show them it did not break me. I will complete the Los Angeles Marathon.
I also remember the first time I ran a 3.5 at track I struggled; I struggled the last two miles of the 20-miler as well. But, I learned lessons. I am also feeling better now. I think I can do better.
I have also got a mental boost set-up. I do not think anyone will be there watching me; so, I will be my own support.
I am trying to do my best to eat right, drink the water, etc.; but, I also am doing my mental work.
For me, Servite is important. It taught me so much, besides academics.
On Sunday I will be thinking as a Friar once again.
DESIRE.
DEDICATION.
DETERMINATION.
DISCIPLINE.
WE ARE SERVITE.
CREDO.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Thursday Run ... Getting Closer
This morning was another run for the LA Roadrunners as we gear up for the Los Angeles Marathon.
The difference was this time it was a mere 20 minutes! It seems like a joke now after the 1 hour trots and the 20 Miler.
Still, I was a little concerned as I did not sleep much last night. I got home late due to being with my CCD class and then after cleaning up and eating dinner I think I made the mistake of downing a sports drink, which probably upped the energy rather than relax me.
I got out and about pretty easily. I consciously worked not to go out as fast as Tuesday, and not just because of photographer not being present.
I thought best not to really push the throttles right before the race.
I felt good though and like I was in cruise speed. I did a Pico Boulevard Shuttle ... up and back.
It ended a little above LT pace; but, allowing for traffic lights and need to rebuild pace ... I am happy. Compared to a few weeks ago, I am very happy!
20:50 of running
1.94 miles (should have done the extra .06).
10:43 pace
The difference was this time it was a mere 20 minutes! It seems like a joke now after the 1 hour trots and the 20 Miler.
Still, I was a little concerned as I did not sleep much last night. I got home late due to being with my CCD class and then after cleaning up and eating dinner I think I made the mistake of downing a sports drink, which probably upped the energy rather than relax me.
I got out and about pretty easily. I consciously worked not to go out as fast as Tuesday, and not just because of photographer not being present.
I thought best not to really push the throttles right before the race.
I felt good though and like I was in cruise speed. I did a Pico Boulevard Shuttle ... up and back.
It ended a little above LT pace; but, allowing for traffic lights and need to rebuild pace ... I am happy. Compared to a few weeks ago, I am very happy!
20:50 of running
1.94 miles (should have done the extra .06).
10:43 pace
Hmmmm ... a bit more than I expected
Well, the last few weeks have been a bit interesting. The senior LA Roadrunners pace leader asked for people who had lost their jobs and taken up running or taken it up again ... like me.
So, I submitted my name and story. A few days ago I was contacted for an interview. Then, I was asked for some photos, hence what happened on my very fast run Tuesday.
The results:
http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-marathon-recession18-2010mar18,0,2772250.story
Even rather more odd is ....
a) there are two photos in the actual paper version
b) the story starts on page 1
c) the main photo on page 1 is .... me.
It's bloody odd seeing yourself in the newspaper machine window!
So, I submitted my name and story. A few days ago I was contacted for an interview. Then, I was asked for some photos, hence what happened on my very fast run Tuesday.
The results:
http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-marathon-recession18-2010mar18,0,2772250.story
Even rather more odd is ....
a) there are two photos in the actual paper version
b) the story starts on page 1
c) the main photo on page 1 is .... me.
It's bloody odd seeing yourself in the newspaper machine window!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
ROADRUNNERS: WE ARE GROUP 7
Our last group training run .... March 13, 2010. I'm in the back as usual ... off the right shoulder of the guy (Pete) in the orange shirt. I am in the Group 7 red hat (as opposed to the standard black) and grey Roadrunners shirt. Not a bad view, eh?Tuesday, March 16, 2010
I'm Ready for My Close-Up
Today it was back to running dark and early. Time change or not ... it's still dark!
It was kind of an odd day as I thought about where I was a year ago today ... Wigan and Wigan Pier. Now, my focus is getting to the Santa Monica Pier.
The interesting bit was I was asked to be photographed while on my trot around Santa Monica and West Los Angeles.
So, since the LA Roadrunners schedule said 30 minutes ... off I went on a shortened M1 route.
I felt good. VERY, VERY good. I have not felt this way in MONTHS. I am not sure why; I hope it lasts!!!!!!
I started out fast without even sensing it until the Garmin check yielded a ... "What the ..." I was flying. I was trying to slow down; but, I was still fast. It was amazing. Kind of a human version of the cars without brakes.
May be it was seeing flashes form the camera?
Whatever it was ... I was fast and staying fast.
I made the route and felt full of energy. It was a nice feeling after everything.
I made it back and started to stretch.
The photographer said seeing a runner in the dark with so little traffic and life around (04:00) was "surreal."
What was surreal for me was the pace ... I keep this up and I can do well come Sunday at the Los Angeles Marathon.
29:10 of running (well, 50 seconds short)
3.20 miles
9:07 pace (I feel the need time).
It was kind of an odd day as I thought about where I was a year ago today ... Wigan and Wigan Pier. Now, my focus is getting to the Santa Monica Pier.
The interesting bit was I was asked to be photographed while on my trot around Santa Monica and West Los Angeles.
So, since the LA Roadrunners schedule said 30 minutes ... off I went on a shortened M1 route.
I felt good. VERY, VERY good. I have not felt this way in MONTHS. I am not sure why; I hope it lasts!!!!!!
I started out fast without even sensing it until the Garmin check yielded a ... "What the ..." I was flying. I was trying to slow down; but, I was still fast. It was amazing. Kind of a human version of the cars without brakes.
May be it was seeing flashes form the camera?
Whatever it was ... I was fast and staying fast.
I made the route and felt full of energy. It was a nice feeling after everything.
I made it back and started to stretch.
The photographer said seeing a runner in the dark with so little traffic and life around (04:00) was "surreal."
What was surreal for me was the pace ... I keep this up and I can do well come Sunday at the Los Angeles Marathon.
29:10 of running (well, 50 seconds short)
3.20 miles
9:07 pace (I feel the need time).
Monday, March 15, 2010
Build Up
It seems kind of unusual now for me ... the reduction in running seems odd. Still, the LA Roadrunners paceleaders are saying do NOT run any more than scheduled.
The Los Angeles Marathon is coming ... fast.
Yesterday, I spent some time talking about why I started, how I feel, etc. It really got me thinking about the whole journey ... and it has been a journey.
This morning I got to see photos from the run Sunday as well.
I have started to mentally prepare more for Sunday. I started thinking about songs, besides the theme song I always play.
It has been interesting as the radio will start playing something and I will go, "Right, there's one."
I do have to watch I get good ones in my head and not the old heavy metal and such I used to use before sprinting!
I am recalling the old Servite mantras though ... It is hard to forget:
MIND OVER MATTER.
IF YOU DO NOT MIND THE PAIN, IT DOES NOT MATTER.
Six Days.
The Los Angeles Marathon is coming ... fast.
Yesterday, I spent some time talking about why I started, how I feel, etc. It really got me thinking about the whole journey ... and it has been a journey.
This morning I got to see photos from the run Sunday as well.
I have started to mentally prepare more for Sunday. I started thinking about songs, besides the theme song I always play.
It has been interesting as the radio will start playing something and I will go, "Right, there's one."
I do have to watch I get good ones in my head and not the old heavy metal and such I used to use before sprinting!
I am recalling the old Servite mantras though ... It is hard to forget:
MIND OVER MATTER.
IF YOU DO NOT MIND THE PAIN, IT DOES NOT MATTER.
Six Days.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Last Sunday Run
Well, this morning it was time for another post-long run run. Actually, it was the last one under the LA Roadrunners schedule except for a slightly longer run next Sunday! (Something about a marathon ...)
I felt pretty comfortable and headed out for a scheduled 30 minutes. My knee was a little sore; but, it was nothing unusual. I did get into Los Angeles before heading back into Santa Monica and was hitting LT pace until the traffic lights began taking their toll as usual.
I headed down to Santa Monica Airport and environs, taking in the relative quiet. I could hear the muffled sounds of traffic from the 10 freeway; but, that was about it. Suddenly, a helicopter came in; so, I watched it for a brief stop and then got going again.
I made it home and then took it all again. Progress.
My pace is a bit off; but, still, it is much better than a few weeks ago.
31:09 of running
2.75 miles
11:21 pace
I felt pretty comfortable and headed out for a scheduled 30 minutes. My knee was a little sore; but, it was nothing unusual. I did get into Los Angeles before heading back into Santa Monica and was hitting LT pace until the traffic lights began taking their toll as usual.
I headed down to Santa Monica Airport and environs, taking in the relative quiet. I could hear the muffled sounds of traffic from the 10 freeway; but, that was about it. Suddenly, a helicopter came in; so, I watched it for a brief stop and then got going again.
I made it home and then took it all again. Progress.
My pace is a bit off; but, still, it is much better than a few weeks ago.
31:09 of running
2.75 miles
11:21 pace
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Week 27: The End of the Beginning
Today was the last group run for the LA Roadrunners. The next time we get together it will not be a Saturday. It will not be in Venice. It will not be light. It WILL be dark. It will be at Dodger Stadium. It will be the Los Angeles Marathon.
Personally, it was a bit hard as I had my mind elsewhere.
The paceleaders told us it would be a "fun run" and they even recommended NOT bringing our beloved Garmin systems and other electronics!
The weather turned out to be very beautiful, if only warm. I hope it is not this warm come marathon day. We were also told there would be five mandatory stops for a relatively short run, six miles, to California Avenue.
Before the group rallied together, though, I met up with my old partner in the parking lot. He has a vertebrate issue among other things and was told, "You can not run or you can risk permanent damage." Needless to say he is a Roadrunner and ... he chose B. He is trying to do run/walk and thinks he can do it; he did 20 miles on the beach while the group was at Dodger Stadium last week.
Our senior pace leader got us together before the run and gave us some new information on the procedures for race day. He is always right up-to-the-minute which is great. One funny thing was while he was addressing us we could hear the organizers yelling, "Where the hell is Group 6?" For once, it was not 7 getting lost, running in circles or blowing through hold lines! Yeah! It only took us 27 weeks ...
We lined up and I partnered with Danny again. It just seemed light-hearted the whole time and I was joking with people near me. I saw my friend from church again and invited him along for the run or next week's short excursion.
We hit the first and only water station at Casa del Mar and the photos started. Then we headed up the Santa Monica Pier for the last climb and took an "official" group photo for the Roadrunners at the top. (It would have been cool under the famous sign; but, not to be alas.) We then went along the now familiar climb up Ocean Avenue.
At the top of the hill, we stopped at California Avenue for more photos. It was a tad disappointing not to go to the Totem Pole just across the street one more time ... I need the luck for my knee!
Soon, we headed back home. We stopped very quickly at Ocean Avenue and Santa Monica ... the finish line. I'll be back.
and got some wonderful views of the Santa Monica Pier. Soon enough we were on it as usual; but, this time we went down the steps by Bubba Gump's. The finish expo will be there; so, now I know where. Apparently, there will be a ramp in place of the stairs as well ... presumably so we can just roll down and not have to walk down stairs after 26.2.
We made our way under the pier and headed on the familiar stretch home. Before we hit the last water station, we got reminded ... "This is your last chance to go 2 x 2 before the marathon." Ah yes, Group 7 discipline!
Eerily, the group suddenly got quiet and remained so until the end. It was just odd as all the joking ended. It was if we were on a long run again. It was striking.
When we reached the flagpole, there was a big cheer and handshakes and fist bumps. We stretched briefly and then headed to the school to pick up the very exclusive Roadrunners wristband, not available in stores mind you. Since as usual I am in the last group of the alphabet, I just naturally went to the end. No need to look! It was nice as the Canadian paceleader was distributing to W-Z!
Afterwards, I saw Nancy again and she seemed happy. I spoke for a while with Danny, Pete, and Mitch from the group plus my old partner. Then it was off for home and some needed reflection.
Game on.
6.1 Miles
1:25.24 of running.walking/stopping for photos
14:01 pace
Personally, it was a bit hard as I had my mind elsewhere.
The paceleaders told us it would be a "fun run" and they even recommended NOT bringing our beloved Garmin systems and other electronics!
The weather turned out to be very beautiful, if only warm. I hope it is not this warm come marathon day. We were also told there would be five mandatory stops for a relatively short run, six miles, to California Avenue.
Before the group rallied together, though, I met up with my old partner in the parking lot. He has a vertebrate issue among other things and was told, "You can not run or you can risk permanent damage." Needless to say he is a Roadrunner and ... he chose B. He is trying to do run/walk and thinks he can do it; he did 20 miles on the beach while the group was at Dodger Stadium last week.
Our senior pace leader got us together before the run and gave us some new information on the procedures for race day. He is always right up-to-the-minute which is great. One funny thing was while he was addressing us we could hear the organizers yelling, "Where the hell is Group 6?" For once, it was not 7 getting lost, running in circles or blowing through hold lines! Yeah! It only took us 27 weeks ...
We lined up and I partnered with Danny again. It just seemed light-hearted the whole time and I was joking with people near me. I saw my friend from church again and invited him along for the run or next week's short excursion.
We hit the first and only water station at Casa del Mar and the photos started. Then we headed up the Santa Monica Pier for the last climb and took an "official" group photo for the Roadrunners at the top. (It would have been cool under the famous sign; but, not to be alas.) We then went along the now familiar climb up Ocean Avenue.
At the top of the hill, we stopped at California Avenue for more photos. It was a tad disappointing not to go to the Totem Pole just across the street one more time ... I need the luck for my knee!
Soon, we headed back home. We stopped very quickly at Ocean Avenue and Santa Monica ... the finish line. I'll be back.
and got some wonderful views of the Santa Monica Pier. Soon enough we were on it as usual; but, this time we went down the steps by Bubba Gump's. The finish expo will be there; so, now I know where. Apparently, there will be a ramp in place of the stairs as well ... presumably so we can just roll down and not have to walk down stairs after 26.2.
We made our way under the pier and headed on the familiar stretch home. Before we hit the last water station, we got reminded ... "This is your last chance to go 2 x 2 before the marathon." Ah yes, Group 7 discipline!
Eerily, the group suddenly got quiet and remained so until the end. It was just odd as all the joking ended. It was if we were on a long run again. It was striking.
When we reached the flagpole, there was a big cheer and handshakes and fist bumps. We stretched briefly and then headed to the school to pick up the very exclusive Roadrunners wristband, not available in stores mind you. Since as usual I am in the last group of the alphabet, I just naturally went to the end. No need to look! It was nice as the Canadian paceleader was distributing to W-Z!
Afterwards, I saw Nancy again and she seemed happy. I spoke for a while with Danny, Pete, and Mitch from the group plus my old partner. Then it was off for home and some needed reflection.
Game on.
6.1 Miles
1:25.24 of running.walking/stopping for photos
14:01 pace
Thursday, March 11, 2010
30 Minutes of ...
Today was the last individual running day for the week. Saturday is the last LA Roadrunners group run as the Los Angeles Marathon draws closer.
It was kind of odd this morning as I did not want to run at all; but, I got up and going, thankfully.
I set out dark and early on an abbreviated M1. With the wind blowing, I decided to go with a windbreaker.
I felt pretty comfortable going around and was right around LT time once I got the wheels turning. I was relieved to feel this way as my knee has been a tad touchy in non-running hours.
The stoplights took turns tormenting me and one long one on Bundy and Pico is just a pace killer. Still, I cruised around the route, which still includes some smallish hills. After leaving Los Angeles, it was back into Santa Monica and then towards the airport. Today there were two park ranger vehicles looking about; but, no worries.
I made it home and got cleaned up for the day. I was a bit off target pace-wise; but, I was also faster than last time.
I also know for whatever reasons I run better after eating, in a group, and in the daylight ... all three of which were not happening this morning.
Hope is coming.
35:04 of running (a bit over target)
3.17 miles
11:04 pace
It was kind of odd this morning as I did not want to run at all; but, I got up and going, thankfully.
I set out dark and early on an abbreviated M1. With the wind blowing, I decided to go with a windbreaker.
I felt pretty comfortable going around and was right around LT time once I got the wheels turning. I was relieved to feel this way as my knee has been a tad touchy in non-running hours.
The stoplights took turns tormenting me and one long one on Bundy and Pico is just a pace killer. Still, I cruised around the route, which still includes some smallish hills. After leaving Los Angeles, it was back into Santa Monica and then towards the airport. Today there were two park ranger vehicles looking about; but, no worries.
I made it home and got cleaned up for the day. I was a bit off target pace-wise; but, I was also faster than last time.
I also know for whatever reasons I run better after eating, in a group, and in the daylight ... all three of which were not happening this morning.
Hope is coming.
35:04 of running (a bit over target)
3.17 miles
11:04 pace
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Another Day Closer
The LA Roadrunners training schedule for the Los Angeles Marathon is now in the tapering phase. The runs are now less frequent and less minutes and less work (i.e. no or few hills recommended).
So, I set out for another 30 minute-trot. For whatever reason I felt nervous beforehand; but, things settled down decently and got going along M1.
I felt pretty comfortable. The knee was decent; again though my calves got a bit sore after a mile for some reason I can not understand. it is not really painful; it is more just annoying. It is not the shoes as they are still fairly new.
Anyways, I made the rounds hitting Santa Monica and Los Angeles and then down towards Santa Monica Airport before heading home.
I was a little disappointed with the pace; but, it gets badly affected by seemingly hitting every traffic light and then having to restart. On the other hand, I do feel better physically.
38:39 of running (well, have to cut the route down for the next run')
3.41 miles
11:20 pace
So, I set out for another 30 minute-trot. For whatever reason I felt nervous beforehand; but, things settled down decently and got going along M1.
I felt pretty comfortable. The knee was decent; again though my calves got a bit sore after a mile for some reason I can not understand. it is not really painful; it is more just annoying. It is not the shoes as they are still fairly new.
Anyways, I made the rounds hitting Santa Monica and Los Angeles and then down towards Santa Monica Airport before heading home.
I was a little disappointed with the pace; but, it gets badly affected by seemingly hitting every traffic light and then having to restart. On the other hand, I do feel better physically.
38:39 of running (well, have to cut the route down for the next run')
3.41 miles
11:20 pace
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
I'm Not a Number ... Wait, I Am. Nevermind.
This morning's email brought confirmation of my entry in the 2010 Los Angeles Marathon.
Besides confirming I am still male, it also revealed my number for the race ...
I AM #6,530!
Besides confirming I am still male, it also revealed my number for the race ...
I AM #6,530!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Walk/Jog?
Well, it was the day after the Dodger Stadium Hill Training II ... and the LA Roadruners schedule called for 30 minutes of "walk/jog." That was a new one ... so, I was a bit perplexed as to what to do.
So, I decided to set out in the evening. I had decided since my knee was a little sore driving home form Dodger Stadium that I should take the extra sleep and rest time Sunday morning and go out at night after finishing church tasks.
Out I went ... I felt pretty good, in fact the best I have felt on a Sunday run in weeks or may be months. I looked down at my Garmin and saw I was indeed doing well ... almost LT time ... and thought I better ease the throttle back if this is supposed to be a walk/jog.
I headed down towards Clover Park and did a lap as well hitting the neighboring streets around Santa Monica Airport and the Pico Neighborhood. I was able to focus on the scenery and seeing which business was gone this week, kind of the sad economic reality game. Physically I felt comfortable and relaxed, which was a nice feeling indeed.
My calves did get a little sore and my knee was a bit more tender than at the start; but, overall it was a decent run.
I got my work in and may be more importantly at this point got a good mental feeling.
34:36 of running ... a bit over
2.92 miles
11:51 pace ... there we go
So, I decided to set out in the evening. I had decided since my knee was a little sore driving home form Dodger Stadium that I should take the extra sleep and rest time Sunday morning and go out at night after finishing church tasks.
Out I went ... I felt pretty good, in fact the best I have felt on a Sunday run in weeks or may be months. I looked down at my Garmin and saw I was indeed doing well ... almost LT time ... and thought I better ease the throttle back if this is supposed to be a walk/jog.
I headed down towards Clover Park and did a lap as well hitting the neighboring streets around Santa Monica Airport and the Pico Neighborhood. I was able to focus on the scenery and seeing which business was gone this week, kind of the sad economic reality game. Physically I felt comfortable and relaxed, which was a nice feeling indeed.
My calves did get a little sore and my knee was a bit more tender than at the start; but, overall it was a decent run.
I got my work in and may be more importantly at this point got a good mental feeling.
34:36 of running ... a bit over
2.92 miles
11:51 pace ... there we go
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Wait, we ran what?
Saturday was another in the now dwindling number of LA Roadrunner training days as the Los Angeles Marathon draws ever closer.
This time it was a return to Dodger Stadium for hill training. I got to go in a new entrance gate, the Downtown Gate! I arrived early to stretch and just enjoy being at the stadium and not paying $15 to park. (This led to me getting an official Dodger Stadium pinecone!). Again they opened the left field pavilion so Roadrunners could use the restrooms ... it was so like a ghost town.
Eventually more people came and I started to see people from Group 7. As we waited we heard a big THUD. Either someone drove into a pole or another vehicle ... oops.
Anyways, we got going and got a nice boost as they did the Roadrunners' chant again ... loud and proud. People seemed pretty into it.
The group was down from last week. I am not sure if it was the potential rain or the aftermath of the 20-Miler or just this was a short run ... Our senior pace leader said they would regret their decision.
We lined up and I had a new partner, quite a nice guy. We chatted off and on all run.
Being Group 7 we do things a bit differently ... this time when we lined up for departure we took right off through the managing woman saying, "Wait, which group is this ... stop! stop! Where are you going?" Ah yes, Group 7 blowing the light! This led to a traffic jam soon after at a chokepoint to exit the stadium as we met up with Group 6 and also a walking or run/walk group.
It also seemed like we saw a LOT of Rod Dixon on his bike throughout the run. I quipped he may remember the last excursion where he rescued us from being lost.
This time we did not do the two laps around the stadium; instead, we made two circuits of the NPN 5K Course. The exit road remains a concern with a lot of cracks and street damage. We then made a tour up some hills and onto a trail. Here, the city did not have gates opened; so, we had to go around them. Hopefully, they are open for the 5K or those runners are in for the unpleasant surprise of a steeplechase or hurdle!
My knee was average; my calves were a little tender for about a mile. Still, I kept going with the group. It was fairly easy and I was working on my uphill and downhill form. The weather being overcast helped, though as usual I was sweating.
On the ascent up the final hill of Circuit I, we saw snake in the middle of the road. Oops. Is that a good sign? It was also the day to begin buying single-game Los Angeles Dodgers tickets; so, lots of people were around and there were cars ... something different from the first visit. It still seems od being at the stadium and not seeing a game.
We stopped for water and being in the back again faced the Group 7 challenge of sprinting to catch up as the front of the line leaves so quickly. The group was on its way for Circuit II and it went fairly smoothly.
We made it back and did stretching. For the first time in my life, I was on my back on the Dodger Stadium parking lot! Interesting.
Our senior pace leader then gave us a long, detailed briefing on hints and strategies for the upcoming marathon. (So detailed that many groups came after us and were done with the bananas and Gatorade before we broke up). He is a big help preparing for everything. Sometimes it seems a bit daunting; but, he also reassures.
We then hit the food and drink table, this time with the addition of soy milk, which I tried for the first time.
It was time to go home as the clouds were darkening fast ... drops were coming. I headed home surface as my knee was a bit sore and the rain was coming quite hard. We had been lucky in the timing, definitely.
So, another training run done.
Before I left I checked my Garmin. They said our pace would likely be slow due to the hills; but, it was not. The big thing was I was a bit horrified at the distances it contains a certain number series ... what the ...
Time: 1:09.32
Pace: 10:27
Distance: 6.66 Miles ...
This time it was a return to Dodger Stadium for hill training. I got to go in a new entrance gate, the Downtown Gate! I arrived early to stretch and just enjoy being at the stadium and not paying $15 to park. (This led to me getting an official Dodger Stadium pinecone!). Again they opened the left field pavilion so Roadrunners could use the restrooms ... it was so like a ghost town.
Eventually more people came and I started to see people from Group 7. As we waited we heard a big THUD. Either someone drove into a pole or another vehicle ... oops.
Anyways, we got going and got a nice boost as they did the Roadrunners' chant again ... loud and proud. People seemed pretty into it.
The group was down from last week. I am not sure if it was the potential rain or the aftermath of the 20-Miler or just this was a short run ... Our senior pace leader said they would regret their decision.
We lined up and I had a new partner, quite a nice guy. We chatted off and on all run.
Being Group 7 we do things a bit differently ... this time when we lined up for departure we took right off through the managing woman saying, "Wait, which group is this ... stop! stop! Where are you going?" Ah yes, Group 7 blowing the light! This led to a traffic jam soon after at a chokepoint to exit the stadium as we met up with Group 6 and also a walking or run/walk group.
It also seemed like we saw a LOT of Rod Dixon on his bike throughout the run. I quipped he may remember the last excursion where he rescued us from being lost.
This time we did not do the two laps around the stadium; instead, we made two circuits of the NPN 5K Course. The exit road remains a concern with a lot of cracks and street damage. We then made a tour up some hills and onto a trail. Here, the city did not have gates opened; so, we had to go around them. Hopefully, they are open for the 5K or those runners are in for the unpleasant surprise of a steeplechase or hurdle!
My knee was average; my calves were a little tender for about a mile. Still, I kept going with the group. It was fairly easy and I was working on my uphill and downhill form. The weather being overcast helped, though as usual I was sweating.
On the ascent up the final hill of Circuit I, we saw snake in the middle of the road. Oops. Is that a good sign? It was also the day to begin buying single-game Los Angeles Dodgers tickets; so, lots of people were around and there were cars ... something different from the first visit. It still seems od being at the stadium and not seeing a game.
We stopped for water and being in the back again faced the Group 7 challenge of sprinting to catch up as the front of the line leaves so quickly. The group was on its way for Circuit II and it went fairly smoothly.
We made it back and did stretching. For the first time in my life, I was on my back on the Dodger Stadium parking lot! Interesting.
Our senior pace leader then gave us a long, detailed briefing on hints and strategies for the upcoming marathon. (So detailed that many groups came after us and were done with the bananas and Gatorade before we broke up). He is a big help preparing for everything. Sometimes it seems a bit daunting; but, he also reassures.
We then hit the food and drink table, this time with the addition of soy milk, which I tried for the first time.
It was time to go home as the clouds were darkening fast ... drops were coming. I headed home surface as my knee was a bit sore and the rain was coming quite hard. We had been lucky in the timing, definitely.
So, another training run done.
Before I left I checked my Garmin. They said our pace would likely be slow due to the hills; but, it was not. The big thing was I was a bit horrified at the distances it contains a certain number series ... what the ...
Time: 1:09.32
Pace: 10:27
Distance: 6.66 Miles ...
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Old School
No more running this week until Saturday ... the LA Roadrunners are tapering down as the Los Angeles Marathon approaches.
I have been trying to work a bit on the mental part of this whole process. (Though some may argue you have to be mental to even try a marathon).
First, I looked at last Saturday. I completed 20 miles, which was a record by four miles. I struggled the last two definitely and that is a concern; but, I finished. I also seem to have recovered better than many others in my group which has surprised me.
I am hoping if I can completely be free or significantly reduce the cold and coughing that there will be a big boost.
I also believe I did not eat enough energy products during the run; so, the planning will be changed (I had the food ... I just did not eat enough).
My knee is better as well; it is not perfect ... but better is a good thing. It makes me more trusting and confident. I also now believe I will be keeping the sleeve on for a while.
Saturday also made me think way back to the track days. The first time I was told to run a 3.5 (3. 5 miles) for Hell Week I struggled as it was new to me. After that time though, it clicked and I was actually pretty good at it as well as when it was boosted to the 5.8 trip into Fullerton.
So, the last two miles last Saturday are and were a concern; but, I think the experience helped.
Then there is the mental angle overall. 26.2 is a tad daunting. It is a challenge; the task is complete the challenge.
I am starting to envision finishing, the actual final stretch down Ocean Avenue. The hope to finish on the balls of my feet (not the normal distance running heelstriking) in a sprint (or relative sprint) ... going old school. Is it possible? I hope so! I want to ... badly.
I have been thinking how I used to prepare for the sprints and relays. I had a series of songs. I had build-up steps all day. I am trying to translate those ideas to distance running (I know the movie-in-my head has changed already ... aircraft catapult launches from "Top Gun" were great for sprinting but not so good for distance .... so the beach run of "Chariots of Fire" is in play. Why? The looks of determination, but also fun ... the smoothness ... the calmness ... the desire ...
I have the theme song set and have a few other candidates for back-up/build-up. Again, there are changes from the track days due to more songs now obviously and just the difference in need from massive, quick energy and power to endurance. Old School with some renovations.
The 13th will be a hard run. It will be a year to the day since everything started to go badly. It will be the day the opportunity to change it all comes to the fore. It is going to be more a mental exercise than a physical exercise (Six miles? Six miles? You're joking right? Six bloody miles?)
At Servite sports meant being mentally tough. It was drilled in constantly and helped a lot. We would beat teams we should not have beaten. I need and want that spirit back March 21.
It's old school time.
I have been trying to work a bit on the mental part of this whole process. (Though some may argue you have to be mental to even try a marathon).
First, I looked at last Saturday. I completed 20 miles, which was a record by four miles. I struggled the last two definitely and that is a concern; but, I finished. I also seem to have recovered better than many others in my group which has surprised me.
I am hoping if I can completely be free or significantly reduce the cold and coughing that there will be a big boost.
I also believe I did not eat enough energy products during the run; so, the planning will be changed (I had the food ... I just did not eat enough).
My knee is better as well; it is not perfect ... but better is a good thing. It makes me more trusting and confident. I also now believe I will be keeping the sleeve on for a while.
Saturday also made me think way back to the track days. The first time I was told to run a 3.5 (3. 5 miles) for Hell Week I struggled as it was new to me. After that time though, it clicked and I was actually pretty good at it as well as when it was boosted to the 5.8 trip into Fullerton.
So, the last two miles last Saturday are and were a concern; but, I think the experience helped.
Then there is the mental angle overall. 26.2 is a tad daunting. It is a challenge; the task is complete the challenge.
I am starting to envision finishing, the actual final stretch down Ocean Avenue. The hope to finish on the balls of my feet (not the normal distance running heelstriking) in a sprint (or relative sprint) ... going old school. Is it possible? I hope so! I want to ... badly.
I have been thinking how I used to prepare for the sprints and relays. I had a series of songs. I had build-up steps all day. I am trying to translate those ideas to distance running (I know the movie-in-my head has changed already ... aircraft catapult launches from "Top Gun" were great for sprinting but not so good for distance .... so the beach run of "Chariots of Fire" is in play. Why? The looks of determination, but also fun ... the smoothness ... the calmness ... the desire ...
I have the theme song set and have a few other candidates for back-up/build-up. Again, there are changes from the track days due to more songs now obviously and just the difference in need from massive, quick energy and power to endurance. Old School with some renovations.
The 13th will be a hard run. It will be a year to the day since everything started to go badly. It will be the day the opportunity to change it all comes to the fore. It is going to be more a mental exercise than a physical exercise (Six miles? Six miles? You're joking right? Six bloody miles?)
At Servite sports meant being mentally tough. It was drilled in constantly and helped a lot. We would beat teams we should not have beaten. I need and want that spirit back March 21.
It's old school time.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
The Comeback Starts?
This is a reduced training week for the LA Roadrunners as everyone tapers the training in time for the big day, the Los Angeles Marathon.
I decided to run this morning rather than in Thursday, again for work reasons.
I had a short night of sleep due to a late meeting and so decided to take a bit extra sleep rather than a pre-run tostada, Tostadas though seem to be a potential secret weapon.
I set out dark and early and felt pretty good. There was a little coughing at the start; but, it was reduced from before and much better than few weeks ago. May be it is just my motor sputtering at the start? The weather was a bit cloudy but warmer than recent days.
Anyways, I was running a modified M1 route since it was scheduled for 40 minutes. I went west slightly and then headed east to Los Angeles and back into Santa Monica to begin the loop near Santa Monica Airport.
I felt relaxed which was a nice feeling and also a surprise. My knee felt pretty good as well; in fact, lately, it seems to be a bit sorer while NOT running. It is definitely better than the crisis times.
The only real drawbacks were traffic lights, a few of which are long and just kill momentum, and also a diversion when I heard the rather angry barks of likely a large dog. After previous dog encounter, I was not taking a chance and changed course though it turned out the dog was behind a fence (just hard to tell in the dark and I was not keen to verify its status).
I made it home and felt pretty good indeed.
I had hoped for a bit faster pace; but, it was much improved over recent efforts and allowing for traffic light pace destroyers I am a lot more satisfied. The confidence is slowly coming back, thankfully.
40:32 of running
3.67 miles
11:08 pace
I decided to run this morning rather than in Thursday, again for work reasons.
I had a short night of sleep due to a late meeting and so decided to take a bit extra sleep rather than a pre-run tostada, Tostadas though seem to be a potential secret weapon.
I set out dark and early and felt pretty good. There was a little coughing at the start; but, it was reduced from before and much better than few weeks ago. May be it is just my motor sputtering at the start? The weather was a bit cloudy but warmer than recent days.
Anyways, I was running a modified M1 route since it was scheduled for 40 minutes. I went west slightly and then headed east to Los Angeles and back into Santa Monica to begin the loop near Santa Monica Airport.
I felt relaxed which was a nice feeling and also a surprise. My knee felt pretty good as well; in fact, lately, it seems to be a bit sorer while NOT running. It is definitely better than the crisis times.
The only real drawbacks were traffic lights, a few of which are long and just kill momentum, and also a diversion when I heard the rather angry barks of likely a large dog. After previous dog encounter, I was not taking a chance and changed course though it turned out the dog was behind a fence (just hard to tell in the dark and I was not keen to verify its status).
I made it home and felt pretty good indeed.
I had hoped for a bit faster pace; but, it was much improved over recent efforts and allowing for traffic light pace destroyers I am a lot more satisfied. The confidence is slowly coming back, thankfully.
40:32 of running
3.67 miles
11:08 pace
Monday, March 1, 2010
Where Did That Come From?
It was time for another training day for the LA Roadrunners program. The Los Angeles Marathon is getting closer and closer; so, these are big.
Today was a switch ... an hour at aerobic pace!
I opted to go on Monday for a few reasons. One was traditional ... most of the weeks it has been Monday. One was practical due to some work things. Another was I felt pretty good after Sunday's run and wanted some more positive feelings after Saturday's ending struggles.
After consuming a tostada, I set out on M1 dark and early. Quite early on I got a feeling of "Here we go again" as a coughing bout set in and I stopped to try and get sorted and regroup.
After that not so welcome break, the run turned around quickly. The pace quickened. I felt strong. My body felt good, even my knee. There was only a very slight feeling in my thighs of all places (that was new).
I lopped around into Los Angeles and then back towards Santa Monica Airport quite comfortably.
After the last few weeks' challenges, it felt quite good and also quite a relief. For the first time in weeks, I had a solid, solid solo training run. I am not sure how it came about as basically everything said it should not happen: Saturday's struggles, recent form, effects of the 20-miler, etc. Still, it was there! The Garmin 305 electronic conscience said so!
This was big just in restoring some confidence and right when I need it.
1:00.03 of running
5.05 miles
11:56 pace (yeah, I beat the target!)
Today was a switch ... an hour at aerobic pace!
I opted to go on Monday for a few reasons. One was traditional ... most of the weeks it has been Monday. One was practical due to some work things. Another was I felt pretty good after Sunday's run and wanted some more positive feelings after Saturday's ending struggles.
After consuming a tostada, I set out on M1 dark and early. Quite early on I got a feeling of "Here we go again" as a coughing bout set in and I stopped to try and get sorted and regroup.
After that not so welcome break, the run turned around quickly. The pace quickened. I felt strong. My body felt good, even my knee. There was only a very slight feeling in my thighs of all places (that was new).
I lopped around into Los Angeles and then back towards Santa Monica Airport quite comfortably.
After the last few weeks' challenges, it felt quite good and also quite a relief. For the first time in weeks, I had a solid, solid solo training run. I am not sure how it came about as basically everything said it should not happen: Saturday's struggles, recent form, effects of the 20-miler, etc. Still, it was there! The Garmin 305 electronic conscience said so!
This was big just in restoring some confidence and right when I need it.
1:00.03 of running
5.05 miles
11:56 pace (yeah, I beat the target!)
Afterwards
Sunday was the day after ... the day after 20 miles.
For some crazy reason, I was unable to sleep very well Saturday night, which very much surprised me. So, when Sunday morning came, I was a bit wary of trying to go out very early and opted for a little extra sleep before class and everything else.
I did manage some more crosstraining ... moving and lifting tables and chairs, etc. It all counts, eh?
Eventually, I did get home and changed into the gear. I did down a tostada (beef, lettuce, tomato, hot sauce, cheese, and pepper). For whatever reason tostadas seem to help.
I then set out on a night run. The LA Roadrunners guide called for 30 minutes. The senior pace leader had said just make sure you get loose, be it by running or other movement.
I got going and did decently. I headed down to Clover Park and environs and felt surprisingly good. I was amazed considering Saturday's run and particularly Saturday's struggle at the last two miles.
I made it home fairly happily and was relieved to have done much better than last Sunday's run as well as being in much better physical and mental attitude than expected. I did cut it a little short due to it getting late and needing supper and sleep as well as just wanting to keep the postivie feeling.
For some crazy reason, I was unable to sleep very well Saturday night, which very much surprised me. So, when Sunday morning came, I was a bit wary of trying to go out very early and opted for a little extra sleep before class and everything else.
I did manage some more crosstraining ... moving and lifting tables and chairs, etc. It all counts, eh?
Eventually, I did get home and changed into the gear. I did down a tostada (beef, lettuce, tomato, hot sauce, cheese, and pepper). For whatever reason tostadas seem to help.
I then set out on a night run. The LA Roadrunners guide called for 30 minutes. The senior pace leader had said just make sure you get loose, be it by running or other movement.
I got going and did decently. I headed down to Clover Park and environs and felt surprisingly good. I was amazed considering Saturday's run and particularly Saturday's struggle at the last two miles.
I made it home fairly happily and was relieved to have done much better than last Sunday's run as well as being in much better physical and mental attitude than expected. I did cut it a little short due to it getting late and needing supper and sleep as well as just wanting to keep the postivie feeling.
It has also been interesting reading emails among Group 7 and 8 paceleaders and runners.
We're getting ready for the Los Angeles Marathon!
2.06 miles
25:21 of running
12:17 pace ( a big improvement)
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