27 for 26.2: Battle of LA Marathon 2010

Nickel Run Saturday

2010-10-12T14:00:00.001-07:00

The third LA Roadrunners' run came up and off I went to Venice.

It seems different this time. Somehow it is not as exciting. But, I do like seeing some familiar faces and exchanging hand shakes/fist taps and chatting a bit.

We set off north as usual crossing into Santa Monica relatively easily. The group was larger than the first two weeks.

For the first time, we crossed the "border" that is the Santa Monica Pier, only going underneath it vs. on and upwards to Ocean Avenue.

The group continued along and it was relatively easy. I was a bit nervous as we ran along a bike path, where the bicyclists are moving at a quick pace. Fortunately, no collisions happened and everyone was safe.

We turned around and headed back to the pier. Nice and easy we crossed the line back into Venice and into the final stretch, with the standard odd collection of denizens.

Finally, it was time to stretch in the school hall and then the Gatorade and bananas.

I also attended a lecture on running form, which was good.

My nickel run was done ... another step to LA Marathon 2011.

59:11 of running

5.14 miles

11:31 pace

A Little Work

2010-10-12T13:59:00.001-07:00

I managed to get a short run in at last ... on a Friday evening!

So, a quick trot around Clover Park got my legs loose for a change. I felt a bit pleased with the motion; but, still, the lack of speed is disturbing.

31:56 of running

2.70 miles

11:49 pace

Sunday Long Run

2010-09-28T13:50:00.000-07:00

Sunday came and I had some schedule changes which have made it possible to run with the LA Running Club. So, I get LA Roadrunners and LA Running Club opportunities for long runs.

The LA Running Club Sunday event meets at the Totem Pole in Santa Monica, just like the Saturday summer runs.

So, off I went and met the group. The runners tend to be quite good and experienced, unlike me.

Some headed off for trail runs to Inspiration Point. For me, that will be an ongoing project.

I set off with my senior pace leader from last year's LA Roadrunners Group 7. He is recovering from injury and surgery and does his long run on Sunday.

We began with a short walk to warm up and then headed to the Totem Pole to tap it per tradition and then headed towards Adelaide and the nice neighborhood and the ascent of the hill.

Soon, we reached 7th Street and headed to San Vicente, yes the dreaded San Vicente Urban Obstacle Course.

The medians are fun to run and offer the opportunity for a gradual climb heading east and a gradual descent heading west; but, it is now harder. The grass cover seems to have eroded significantly and many more roots were exposed. This made it much harder to concentrate on the running since it required vigilance to avoid the roots. It was very noticeable.

Still, my old SPL and I enjoyed it, running and chatting. We made Bundy and crossed over and began running on the dirt path on the side. Then we began a circuit of the golf course. It was a nice run with different plants and trees than I normally see.

We looped around and made it back to San Vicente to begin the return. It was warm, but not too bad. A procession of Ferraris went by, enlivening the scene.

Soon, I got that happy sight I remembered from March 20: "Ocean dead ahead." We made it back and then crossed Ocean Avenue for the quick trot to the Totem Pole.

After it was time to stretch. We ended up going to Starbucks to refuel.

All in all, I was happy.

1:56.42 of running

9.21 miles

12:40 pace

Back At It

2010-09-28T13:48:00.000-07:00

This was my second week of running with the LA Roadrunners in Year II.

We set out for a brief trip north towards Santa Monica. I had been resting my body a bit during the week; but, I felt alright.

The run went relatively smoothly, even though it got warm quickly.

The group returned to base and after stretching, including on the cement of the Windward square, it was back for Gatorade and bananas.

Not bad at all.

46:12 of running

3.99 miles

11:35 pace

Roadrunners!

2010-09-28T13:47:00.000-07:00

My next run was my first official LA Roadrunners run of the 2010-2011 season in the buildup to the 2011 Honda LA Marathon Presented by KSwiss.

There was a little talk by Rod Dixon and others before setting outside. We did get the Roadrunners chant1 (Yeah!) As the runners left the gym, I went back to my old group, Run 7. Somehow I was not as excited as the first time (or as nervous!).

It was so different! I hardly knew anyone. My old crew at the back was gone. It was a surprise.

The group set out for a quick run north along the now very familiar Strand. This group seemed quieter than last year, may be just due to the first day.

We made it back and I headed to the school for the traditional Gatorade and bananas. Some things never change.

Then, it was off to the parish festival.

I am on the way to LA Marathon II for me.

36:15 of running

3.17 miles

11:48 pace

Long Run Friday

2010-09-24T13:23:00.001-07:00

It was an unusual week and with some flexibility in the schedule, I did a long run on Friday.

It was nice running in the sunshine for a change on my own. After some street running in Santa Monica, I headed around Clover Park and did lap after lap. I enjoyed the change in time and saw some people I had remembered seeing when i first started to run again after being laid off at my old job.

I was thinking a lot about other things; so, I was struggling to focus on my running. May be that was good; may be it was bad.

The results were alright; but, I hoped for faster. My ability to keep ongoing power for speed is missing at the moment, which is frustrating. The good news is my knee is feeling better; it si not perfect, but it is better.

1:35.36 of running
8.11 miles
11:48 pace

Odd Intervals

2010-09-14T14:48:00.001-07:00

Monday meant another run and this time it was some intervals. I am still keeping to the LA Running Club plan for the LA Rock 'n' Roll 1/2 Marathon rather than first week of LA Roadrunners' training.

The intervals this time went up 30 seconds to 6:30 and rest decreased 30 seconds to 3:30.

I warmed up walking to Clover Park for the waiting semi-circuit.

The first interval went relatively well. It was not quite as fast as I wanted; but, it felt comfortable and a relative success.

The second internal was decent as well. It was a little slower; but, it was close in pace which was a good sign for consistency.

The intervals got more interesting on the third session. About two minutes in, it seemed like my energy was drained. It was if I had a flat tire. I could not keep the pace and my desire to get back the speed went unfulfilled. It was a very rough run and frustration.

The fourth run came and was a bit better. I managed to pick up the speed for the second half.

All in all I got it done; but, it was disappointing not to have run faster and even more disappointing with the third run.

#1 .67 miles 6:32 of running 9:45 pace
#2 .66 miles 6:32 of running 9:57 pace
#3 .60 miles 6:31 of running 10:56 pace
#4 .66 miles 6:35 of running 9:58 pace

I SEE ROADRUNNERS!

2010-09-12T16:02:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a change. I had been heading to the the Totem Pole for LA Running Club meets; now, I was wearing a LA Running Club shirt but headed to Venice.

Why? It was the first day of LA Roadrunners 2010-2011!

So, I was back into the familiar Westminster School parking lot. I had pre-registered and happily took my forms to the Pre-Registered line. I even began seeing a few familiar faces.

Soon enough, I was registered and had my new medium-blue Roadrunners shirt, schedule and binder, and the now mandatory shoe tag. Ready for Round II!

I then walked around a bit talking with a few fellow LARCs and Group 7s.

I then visited the exhibitor displays. Not being much for coffee, I skipped Don Francisco's. I visited the booth for the Halloween 5K at the Westwood VA Center. I am thinking about that race as it means some more work on those hills. KSwiss was there as well, with the unmistakable truck. I then visited some of the charities ... Meals on Wheels, Think Cure!, and LiveStrong. There were others; but, those interested me especially. I even managed to get some free kit and things like a water bottle.

There were some presentations; but, they were basics and for totally new runners. So, I headed back out and chatted some more.

I then remembered I still needed to get my LA Rock 'n' Roll 1/2 Marathon work in; so, I headed out ... to the Strand and Windward! The Roadrunners might not be running; but, I am running.

The schedule was for a 5K on fast pace; so, I set out north towards Santa Monica. Pretty soon, it was obvious this was going to be a mediocre run at best.

I was running along the very familiar trail but somehow I was not focusing well and thus not running well.

I kept trying to pick up speed; but, it was not coming. I was going, but not at the desired rate.

I reached the traditional water stop and turned back to Windward. I kept trying and trying to accelerate; but, there was no results.

It was difficult mentally and becoming difficult physically, for what should have been a very easy run.

Finally, the last .2 miles I managed to get a kick going and managed to get some speed passing the collection of denizens in Venice. Then I reached the flagpoles and called it a run after the frustrations.

38:33 of running

3.43 miles

11:15 pace

Friday Futility

2010-09-12T13:35:00.000-07:00

It was a cutback week for the LA Running Club training schedule; so, less runs and less distance were planned.

I had planned to run Thursday evening; but, the all too clear sound of numerous police cars in the area gave me sufficient reason to alter the plan.

I set out on a planned short run and fairly soon realized it was not going to be an easy one. It was and is an unsettling feeling.

I continued onwards around the Pico Neighborhood, taking in the relatively busy evening compared to the much calmer pre-dawn. It is amazing how the neighborhood changes over a few hours, though there are constants like the doughnut store being open.

I ran towards Santa Monica Airport and Clover Park, seeing a few business jets. I felt quite lethargic and knew the statistics for this race would be less than stellar.

I kept going and headed for home.

I finished and faced disappointment ...

30:49 of running
2.42 miles
12:45 pace

Labor Day Laboring

2010-09-09T12:28:00.000-07:00

Labor Day was a welcome day off from work and an opportunity to run with the LA Running Group. I went to meet them at the KSwiss store in south Santa Monica for the late afternoon excursion.

I set out and decided to adopt a medium pace, meaning I was soon left for dead by the fast runners. Still, I was doing alright and headed north. The ascent up the Santa Monica Pier was a tad more complex due to the huge number of visitors enjoying the evening.

I felt alright and was keeping my pace along Ocean Avenue, reaching the turnaround at the Totem Pole, which meant time for some water.

The return was a solo run basically, even as I was encountering many other non-LARC runners.

It was very nice seeing the sunset over the Pacific Ocean; it is hard to beat as a running environment.

I returned back to KSwiss and enjoyed the nice pretzels and drinks. It is a nice way to end a run.

It then dawned on me that I was the very last one to return. The rabbits had blown by me and those slower, including even the walkers, had taken the short option. Humiliating, that.

Still, I enjoyed the run.

1:00.00 of running
5.39 miles
11:08 pace

Steaming

2010-09-08T17:55:00.000-07:00

Saturday meant another day with the LA Running Club. My schedule for the LA Rock n' Roll 1/2 Marathon called for a mere six miles, just at lactic time (race pace).

It was cloudy at the start, which was a good sign for running.

I headed off south towards the Santa Monica Pier, encountering and partnering with Mitch from LA Roadrunners Run 7 on the way, which always helps.

I was doing decently on the way down Ocean Avenue and felt happy with the faster pace. The descent down the pier went well and the turn on to the more ocean-level portion of the run went smoothly.

We passed the Casa del Mar, crossed the bike path, and continued to make the proverbial run for the border, specifically Venice-Santa Monica.

At the turnaround point, I felt a little soreness at the front of my hip, almost like a small muscle pull. I slowed a bit, took some water, and decided to cut off the faster pace. I was still moving decently; but, now, it was labored.

I kept moving back north and realized how many tourists were now out as the sun began to appear. This added to the problems, with more people to go around. When I reached the pier, the ascent became tricky as I ran into a rather undisciplined LA Leggers group taking one side of the ramp and lot so tourists on the other side. Alas. This slowed me down quite a bit.

I reached the top and headed north again, just not feeling anywhere near full power. I was getting frustrated as it was a short run; but, I was struggling.

I got back to the starting base and happily drank some Gatorade. I noticed I had managed to resume my steaming trick again, with "steam" coming off my shirt, hat and head. Other runners even mentioned it!

All in all, it was frustrating.

1:04.43 of running
6.2 miles
10:45 pace

80 for 1

2010-09-03T15:55:00.000-07:00

I had taken a day off as my legs were unusually sore after the intervals. Thursday evening I resumed running.

The schedule from LA Running Club called for 80 minutes of aerobic pace, a decent run, to prepare for the LA Rock 'n' Roll 1/2 Marathon.

The evening was pleasant and there was even a slight breeze. I set out along Pico before heading towards the Santa Monica Airport and Clover Park areas again.

Setting out was relatively easy. I did have to dodge bikes, dogs, walkers, etc. that are not normally around at pre-dawn runs. I trotted south and then entered the airport area before heading for the welcoming lights of Clover Park after about 20 minutes.

I then began doing the laps around the park. It helps not having to stop for traffic lights, having a relatively level surface and also knowing the landmarks. The park also nicely provides water!

So around and round I went. I stopped at 40 minutes to take in water and a Clif Shot mocha flavor to see how I did with it as well as needing energy.

I must have been somewhat focused on running as I finally noticed a nice Citation jet had been replaced by a King Air on the ramp by the park. Normally, I would have noticed the slightest move.

The mocha Clif Shot seemed to be a boost as well. A bit messy to try and use; but, it tasted great!

So, I did the 80 minutes and felt decently. I still need to get faster; but, 80 minutes is not bad.

1:25.34 of running
7.21 miles
11:54 pace

Speed It Up

2010-09-01T16:03:00.001-07:00

Well, with the LA Running Club schedule progressing for the LA Rock 'n' Roll 1/2 Marathon, it was time to start going for more speed.

In fact, it was time for intervals! The repeated fast runs with slow breaks. Being an old sprinter, I look forward to them.

This time, I headed to Clover Park for a semi-closed-circuit. It was a nice pleasant evening, which helped.

I set off on #1 and felt decent. I huffed and puffed around the cement sidewalk dodging a few walkers and joggers. I did the six minutes, stopped, and looked at my Garmin. I thought I had gone relatively fast; but, the results were disappointing. Four minutes of rest and repeat.

It happened again ... and again ... and again. I felt pretty good, thought I ran fast, and. ... dud. The only thing positive was there had been good consistency.

It really seems like I have shed speed and the ability to be fast as the range increased. Now, I have to regain that edge.

#1 6:03 of running .6 miles 10:08 pace
#2 6:04 of running .6 miles 10:01 pace
#3 6:04 of running .62 miles 9:53 pace
#4 6:04 of running .6 miles 10:13 pace

Solo for Sweet 16

2010-08-31T16:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday came, and after a few rest days, I was ready to go again. It was time for another LA Running Club session. This time, thankfully, it was cloudy in Santa Monica.

I set out south as usual and felt decent. Shortly into the run after the Santa Monica Pier descent, I encountered a fellow alumnus of LA Roadrunners Run 7; so, we ran together for a few miles which was nice. I always seem to run better when I have a partner or group. We ke[t going and talking a bit beyond the Roadrunners' base at Windward in Venice.

He turned around and headed back; I continued onwards. For whatever reason the weirdness of Venice seemed even more weird than normal.

I continued along Speedway, past the seaside condos and homeless seeking to salvage cans and bottles. I reached the first little jetty and saw airliners taking off from LAX. Water time.

It was on to the tree-lined streets of Marina del Rey past the condos. I still felt decent, which was a relief after Wednesday. I made the turn at the edge of the little bay and began the weaving through the complexes and by the marina loaded with boats and yachts.

I soon reached Mother's Beach and kept going ... now my longest run since the marathon. I went down the little passage that had become so familiar from Roadrunners and went by the Ritz-Carlton. Then I glimpsed the target ... the library. I made the turn to the street and ran by a Sheriff Deputy stopped in the middle of the road. I kept going and made the library. Not bad.

It felt odd as there were no other LARCs/Roadrunners with me. I was alone. There were some other joggers; but, I knew no one. I was not blazing fast; but, I was still running. I think the others had been assigned shorter distances due to different races on their schedule.

I took some more water and headed back north. I was so glad the sun was still hidden behind clouds.

The run back was not too bad. I was hoping for more energy and speed; but, at least I was functioning.

I trotted back and faced growing numbers of tourists once I hit Venice. I also saw a lot of LA Leggers.

As I was crossing the California Incline, I saw the KSwiss truck heading south. Alas. They had been displaying their new merchandise for the LARC. I had been on the long run; so, I had not returned in time. Note to self ... run faster next time.

I was doing alright considering the distance and running alone; but, I wish it had been faster. Close; but, not there yet.

I finally made it back and got the leftover Gatorade and pretzels. Assignment completed.

3:16.14 of running
16.15 miles
12:14 pace

Woeful Wednesday

2010-08-31T13:43:00.000-07:00

Wednesday came and armed with my revived Garmin I set out again for a scheduled 70 minute trot in Santa Monica.

Monday had seemed such a good run; but, Wednesday quickly felt awkward. I ran around the Pico Neighborhood, Clover Park and Santa Monica Airport.

I just felt drained energy-wise and the run reflected it as I really struggled on what should have been a challenging but doable trot. I just could not achieve a good, comfortable pace the entire time.

I made it back and stretched before sitting and just thinking about what had happened and the frustration and inconsistency.

1:13.42 of running
5.58 miles
13:13 pace

The Jury Is Out

2010-08-26T12:33:00.000-07:00

Monday was my final day of jury duty in Inglewood, thankfully. Getting out at 4:30 p.m. meant I could for once make it to the LA Running Club Monday night run at KSwiss store in Santa Monica.

It was still quite sunny and also and more importantly quite hot. I also felt a little tired from the day; but, off I went. I kind of settled in an in-between spot between the fast runners and the not as fast runners and the walkers. In essence, I was alone. The goal was to get to the Totem Pole and back.

It felt a bit sluggish going up and I resorted to the water bottle a few times. Still, it was nice to be running. I reached the Totem Pole, stopped for water, and then began the descent back to KSwiss.

Somehow, I suddenly felt quite peaceful and gained energy. May be it was the beautiful sight of the setting sun with the Santa Monica Pier, the bay, the palm trees ... I felt really good while running, a very wonderful feeling after all the struggles. It might have been hot physically; but, mentally, it was quite refreshing.

I reached the pier and saw one of my former Confirmation class students at her job; so, that was a bonus.

I continued onwards and downwards reaching Main and then the KSwiss store. Then it was back to the Gatorade and pretzels.

Still, I felt good ... that was a plus.

59:38.03 of running
5.32 miles
11:02 pace

Running Blind

2010-08-25T15:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday came and it was time for another run with the LA Running Club.

I arrived early and it was already bright, sunny, and most importantly warm. In fact, it was as warm as it has been all summer. So, it was pointing to a challenging run. The view of the waves and the Pacific Ocean did help though; it certainly is an advantage running in Santa Monica.

As we prepared and stretched, I activated my Garmin ... or tried to. No response.

No response!

This is not good.

I asked my senior pace leader from LA Roadrunners and he suggested squeezing three buttons simultaneously. I tried and tried and tried without luck. At this point I was told to call Garmin.

That was definitely not good.

Facing a long run and no Garmin electronic conscience, I was a bit discouraged. Still, I started and headed south for the Santa Monica Pier. My load was a bit heavier since I had two bottles of water.

I just ran by feel since I had no Garmin and no real pace group. In some ways it was nice as I did not feel pressure to make a clock time.

I made the pier and the turn and headed further south, stopping for water at the hotels. I continued running into the wilds of Venice and then into Marina del Rey and down to the nice condos along the shore. It is a nice area with shade trees helping the feel.

Then I saw the marina and the yachts all filling the view. Eventually, after the winding paths and turns, I reached Mother's Beach, took in some water, and turned around to head back to Santa Monica.

I felt pretty good which surprised me and judging by my wristwatch my time was actually decent.

I headed along the route back and noted things I had always just passed like plants and some natural features of the waterways. I saw a squirrel do an amazing leap into a tree. It was kind of nice not being tethered to a clock; but, it was also a bit unnerving. It felt so old-fashioned. I was trying to calculate distances and speed mentally using landmarks and my wristwatch.

I felt good still, though warm, and began the ascent up the pier and Ocean Avenue. I reached the start and felt relieved to finish feeling pretty good despite no Garmin and despite the heat.

14+ miles of running

Thursday Turmoil

2010-08-25T15:17:00.000-07:00

After Wednesday's morning run, it was time for another run. I decided to go out Thursday evening.

I set out and realized fairly soon that it was not as fluid a run as Wednesday. I was running the shorter route in Santa Monica and felt glad I did.

The run itself was a disappointing follow-up to Wednesday; but, I finished.

37:31 of running
2.95 miles
12:43 pace

Heating Up

2010-08-19T12:15:00.001-07:00

Due to scheduling this week, I was able to take a rare midweek run in the daylight. In fact there was lots of daylight in the morning.

It was a long run for a midweek trot, 60 minutes. It was also a clear morning and quite warm!

It did seem a bit odd running around the neighborhood in the sunshine; but, it was also nice seeing things in a different light (bad pun) as a runner.

I felt pretty good setting out and hit a few side streets before going east on Pico Boulevard to incorporate some hills into the trip.

I then turned for the Santa Monica Airport and Clover Park for a few laps and some water!

I was feeling relatively good and much better than last week, even with the longer run.

I made it back home and was quite happy to take my now soaking wet shirt off and take in some water and Powerade.

1:02.30 of running
5.31 miles
11:47 pace

Tuesday Trot

2010-08-19T12:12:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was a short run again; I set out for a brief trot around Santa Monica, Santa Monica Airport, and Clover Park.

I ran in the evening due to scheduling issues.

I felt better than I had for a while and relatively comfortable.

Afterwards, though, the knee was rather sore.

35:30 of running
3.05 miles
11:38 pace

Opening the Week

2010-08-16T14:21:00.000-07:00

Monday came and it was up dark and quite early for a trot as par of the LA Running Club schedule.

I did get a nice , clear sky with some stars visible, which was a nice change. I decided to change the route and did a quick leg to Cloverfield before heading east and east and east down Pico Boulevard, which brought some hillwork as a bonus. At the start I was having another round of coughing.

I decided to really go to a new frontier and crossed Bundy as I entered into Los Angeles; so, headed on to Barrington and turned around.

At this point I felt pretty good and no more coughing. I had thought there would be problems after running the night before and not sleeping well; but, I actually felt stronger, which was nice.

I headed back along Pico Boulevard amid the pre-dawn quiet and calm and made it home, feeling much better.

It was not perfect; but, it was a great relief after the recent problems.

30:12 of running
2.73 miles
11:04 pace

Sunday's Sortie

2010-08-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

I took another brief run Sunday evening, heading out around Santa Monica, Clover Park, and the Santa Monica Airport.

I felt somewhat better than Saturday, which was encouraging. I did find it hard to get a good pace going with a series of traffic lights and people walking dogs.

I was happier though overall with the effort and results. My knee felt better after being quite sore for a few days.

I ran around the airport area, seeing all the nice business jets, and then headed home. I felt a bit of energy drained at 25 minutes in; but, it was decent.

The time was not as big a differential and improvement as I expected vs. Saturday; but, it was alright.

31:43 of running
2.71 miles
11:41 pace

When Saturday Comes

2010-08-15T13:27:00.000-07:00

Saturday meant another LA Running Club run. It was scheduled to be a cutback week, so just about 60 minutes or so.

It was again overcast and kind of dull, even the Pacific Ocean waves seemed quieter.

The group seemed smaller as well, perhaps due to a paceleaders meeting for LA Roadrunners!

The goal for my training day was the Santa Monica-Venice border and return.

I set out fairly fast until about the Santa Monica Pier. Then, I began to feel drained mentally and physically and it became a struggle. I just could not feel a good flow or motion, even though my form should be better.

Near the turnaround point, my calves began to feel like they were weighted with lead. It was not a good sensation.

I resorted yet again to survival running and just trying to turn my feet over and keep going.

I felt a little surge of energy crossing California Incline and to the end; but, it was still not dominant power.

All in all for what was supposed to be an easy run, it was very frustrating and depressing. Still, six miles was a lot more than I would do a year ago.

6.17 miles
1:13.26 of running
11:52 pace

Try, Try Again

2010-08-12T12:00:00.000-07:00

Thursday morning came and it was time for another run, again a short one.

I decided to see how I would react to another run eight hours after a prior one.

I set out and immediately came the feeling of congestion in my chest, a bit of soreness in the legs, and some pain in the ankle. Not a good start at all.

This was a different route running a bit west and then east into Los Angeles and back into Santa Monica. It also had a little bit of hillwork.

I did appreciate the relative quiet of the pre-dawn, the lack of traffic, the lack of noise, ...

It was still a hard run and disappointing. I keep trying to do better and it is not happening. The pace was really disheartening.

Still, better to have a bad run than no run.

30:02 of running
2.41 miles
12:29 pace

Midweek Mission

2010-08-12T11:54:00.000-07:00

It is a cutback week for my training; so, less running and less running time.

I gave myself a spare day and a half still trying to fight off a cold; but, it has not been too successful.

I set out Wednesday evening for a brief run around the Pico Neighborhood, Santa Monica Airport and Clover Park.

Fairly soon into the run, I noticed I still felt lethargic and even sore. I am not sure why as a 5K Saturday and a brief run Sunday should not be that trying.

I continued onwards and just tried to work on form as this was clearly not going to be a classic.

I made it around the loop and returned home frustrated once again.

32:23 of running
2.65 miles
12:15 pace

Sunday Run

2010-08-09T16:54:00.000-07:00

Sunday started early as I left my parents' home in Orange County at 04:00 to get back to Santa Monica and then go to church to take care to the day's tasks.

I got home at 7:45 p.m. at last and decided to do a short run.

I set out and soon got a beep from Garmin ... a low energy warning and then it rapidly went blank screen.

I was not amused; but, I decided to try and run a Garmin-free trot. I headed around the area to the Santa Monica Airport and Clover Park.

I was hoping to feel relaxed without the electronic conscience; but, the opposite happened. Without my guiding light of timing guidance, I began to feel lethargic and slow.

My calves and thighs were sore; it was not good. The evening was nice and pleasant but the running was frustrating.

I continued onwards just kind of aimless plodding before heading home.

The lesson from this was there is a lot of room for improvement and I need to look at the causes of the problems very quickly.

5K Time

2010-08-08T08:48:00.000-07:00

Saturday normally is a day for running with the LA Running Club; but, this time it was off to Baldwin Park for the Pride of the Valley 5K.

So, I headed off down the 10 to the 60 to the 605 and got to Baldwin Park. I then headed to where the race was to start at Morgan Park. I found the pre-registered booth and checked in as usual at the last column when everything is alphabetical.

Last year, there was a goody bag; but, this year just a shirt ... but a decent one. There was chip timing though this time. I stretched out and talked to a few people. There did seem to be fewer runners this year than last.

The start was kind of a mess. The entrance to the course narrowed, creating basically a mosh pit and destroying a free run.

Eventually, I got loose and kind of went for training run cruise control. I was using the long distance running form rather than the old sprinting/power run form.

I found I was starting to pass people from 1 mile onwards. Passing the first mile mark, I was behind last year's time. I still was no too comfortable though and was glad to get the water at about 1.6 miles in the race.

It seemed like I was still fighting the aftereffects of the cold and trying to get my knee loose.

Eventually, around Mile 2.5, I felt better and got moving as others started to fade.

I made for the final turn and tried to power up more; but, the reaction was not quite as planned, with may be half of what I wanted coming. I saw the balloon arch and knew the end was nigh and picked it up for a last sprint.

I crossed, stopped my Garmin, and just walked a bit and headed for the bananas and water (no Gatorade!).

In the end, it was an o.k. run. I had run decently; but, it was not great.

3.01 miles
27:53 of running
9:02 pace

Thursday Trial

2010-08-06T11:41:00.000-07:00

After Wednesday's disappointing run, it was time for another try Thursday evening. I decided to try the same route as Wednesday. I was concerned that after Wednesday's struggles that I would be even worse Thursday; but, I needed the work, to vent some frustration, and wanted to see the results. So, off I went.

Initially, my calves felt a bit sore; but, overall I felt better than expected. I was going along decently. I reached the Santa Monica Airport area and felt good. I started the two laps at Clover Park and was happy to find I had a decent rhythm going and did not have a repeat of the 30-minute-fade from Wednesday.

I completed the laps and then headed on the way home. One difference in the night runs vs. the pre-dawn is there are even a few joggers, pedestrians, and more importantly dogs to be aware of to avoid problems. The pre-dawn has its own issues; but, sidewalk traffic is not one of them.

I made it back home, checked my Garmin, and felt relieved. The results were much better than Wednesday and physically I felt better.

Afterwards, I thought about the two runs. It really frustrates me not to be doing better, not to be more consistent, and being so unsure what will happen each time. I used to be very good at the mind games in high shcool runs; but, this is a harder time and needs to be fixed quickly.

53:28 of running
4.55 miles of running
11:49 pace

Wednesday Wobbles

2010-08-05T12:40:00.000-07:00

I felt a bit better; so, I set out Wednesday evening for a run.

The plan was to try for a bit longer trot and go around Clover Park and the Santa Monica Airport. It was another overcast sky for the run.

I started and felt relatively strong, which was encouraging.

One issue with running at night vs. pre-dawn came to the fore again ... frequent stops due to traffic lights. This seems to really affect my momentum and flow. It is definitely an area to improve.

I cruised around the northern end of the airport, even seeing a business jet with a Canadian flag! Then it was onwards to Clover Park. I did two laps of the park. Lap #2 proved more of an adventure; I suddenly felt drained and sore ... I looked down at my Garmin and saw I was on 30 minutes.

It was very discouraging.

Still, I kept going and finished the lap of the park and then back along the northern end of the airport. I made it to the end of the loop and started to head back home and got there.

I had run alright; but, I was and am a bit disappointed in the results, especially pace. Lots of work to do ...

53:03 of running
4.30 miles
12:20 pace

Halfway There

2010-08-02T15:53:00.000-07:00

Saturday was another run for the LA Running Club.

I had run Tuesday and felt good; but, then managed to catch a cold (In August!?!?!?!?) and thought it best to get rest as much as I could. I feel a bit upset about not doing midweek runs; but, it has been one thing after another these days.

It was nice to start with overcast skies and also I really heard the waves crashing along the shore of the Pacific.

There was a warning that a fellow LARC member had been mugged the Saturday before; fortunately, Santa Monica Police Department tracked the culprit down and it seems he will be enjoying free state housing for a while. The LARC also had a stretching workshop; so, after all these different activities, I felt looser than normal and also energized.

This was also a longer run ...

I set out and was feeling quite good and running fast, too fast, for this point of training and distance.

I made the Santa Monica Pier and continued southward towards Venice.

Venice is home territory more or less due to LA Roadrunners training; so, it is a comfort zone, even with all the strange people and behavior everpresent.

Once I reached the landmark flagpole at Windward, I headed down the straightaway that is Speedway. I slowed some; but, still felt pretty good.

I reached the jetty, where I had gone last week, and continued onwards to Marina del Rey.

Marina del Rey has many nice townhouses and obviously a marina, with many very large and nice and expensive boats and yachts. Somehow I missed a turn and did not quite reach Mother's Beach (I did see it!); but, reached the end of one pier and having gone over halfway for assigned mileage worked my way to head home. It felt a bit weird being down there on my own; but, I had made it. I also felt the effects of the cold coming on again.

I started heading back through the marina and the nice areas and into Venice. Speedway was crowded with cars, movers, and runners/walkers. I was plugging along which was alright.

The Venice boardwalk reminded me of how weird the area is ... I heard "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" coming from one store. Just further evidence that marijuana use is not a good thing.

When I reached the Casa del Mar hotel in Santa Monica, I stopped to finish off my bottle of water. There were more people out and the sun was starting to peer through the clouds.

I was starting to struggle a bit; but, I kept moving and overall it was alright.

Climbing up the Santa Monica Pier proved to be an issue with just a lot of people and traffic there for some reason early. At one point, I was walking and it was not due to lack of energy.

I made Ocean Avenue and was slower than the way out but was still going. I was happy to do the mental countdown of streets as I neared the starting point.

Finally, I crossed California Incline and got the feeling ... and even managed to increase speed a bit. I wanted so badly to sprint; but, there was just too much traffic of human and dog nature to go for it.

At last, I made the LARC base and started stretching. Then, it was Gatorade time!

I had done the distance and a bit more for October 24. My pace was a tad slower than I wanted; but, it was not disastrous.

Not bad. I definitely need to work on my speed and power reserves; but, at least I can do the distance.

2:41.35 of running
13.36 miles
12:07 pace

Tuesday Night

2010-07-28T14:09:00.000-07:00

I went for a trot around Santa Monica Tuesday night, with a lot of frustration to release.

It turned out pretty well. No real body aches or pains and felt pretty energized.

I did decently time-wise; but, still want a lot faster. The night runs make it hard with the stop lights, the uncertainty on footing, etc.

Still, not too bad and better than expected.

33:45 of running
2.91 miles
11:35 pace

Take the Galleon

2010-07-25T13:30:00.000-07:00

Saturday means long run day.

This time the weekly email said the target was to go to Galleon, a street down Speedway in Venice. It would be further than I have run since the 2010 LA Marathon (my high has been 8.1 miles).

I was unsure I could even make 8.1 after the abdominal strain and not running Thursday plus prior episodes of trouble.

I reached the rally point for the LA Running Club and started to stretch. During the announcements, those of us running the LA Rock 'n' Roll 1/2 Marathon received a new goal: The Jetty. Hmmm.

So, I set out and headed south and actually felt pretty good. This pleased me! The fear of abdominal pain was departing and some hope was arriving for a change.

I cleared the Santa Monica Pier and kept down to the fancy hotels. No major accomplishment yet as this was the normal course. I crossed the city line from Santa Monica to Venice (always a change in culture with the tourist shops, the marijuana "clinics," etc.). Still, nothing too noteworthy as it was the normal course.

I saw the flagpole at Windward and still felt pretty solid, which surprised me. I turned and headed down the old favorite, Speedway.

Speedway always reminds me of like trying to gain a sneak view of life for the rich and bohemian. Anyways, it is a public street and I can run on it and I have, do, and will do.

I continued on and went past my prior former turnoff point and kept going. It did seem kind of weird running alone in LA Roadrunners territory!

Eventually, I saw the signpost for the original destination, Galleon. I had taken the Galleon! I still felt decent; so, I continued south. The ability to just keep running when I did not expect to be able to was a huge boost.

Soon enough I saw the ivy and the fencing and knew the Jetty was approaching. I felt a relief and headed onwards and reached it and had a little celebration, drinking water.

This run also saw the resumption of mid-run eating, with a whole package of Clif Bar Shot Bloks, black cherry flavor, going down. I had not tried black cherry before; but, no stomach issues and taste was fine.

After my mini-celebration, it was time to head back and I started north reversing course. There were a lot of APLA runners coming towards me for some reason; but, no major problem. My main delay was due to cars on Speedway pulling in and out for parking.

I felt good being able to run, even if slowly, this far considering, and was happy to cross the line back into Santa Monica.

I wondered how it would be on the Ocean Avenue ascent; but, first was the windy part of the beach trail and then the climb up the pier. I felt a burst of energy going up the pier, which was nice and welcome. Then, it was Ocean Avenue. It did not trouble me much at all which was a good sign.

Soon enough, I had crossed the remaining distance and was back at the LARC base. I stretched, downed some pretzels and Gatorade, and chatted a bit. I felt pretty happy considering. Even more encouraging was I ran faster, even thougn it was slow, than I had the cutback week.

I had taken the Galleon!

11.2 miles of running
2:20.11
11:43 pace

What to Do

2010-07-23T15:46:00.000-07:00

I was scheduled to do 45 minutes of running Thursday.

I did not do it.

I faced a decision ... do running I need to do to get ready or hope the abdominal muscle pull I reaggravated can heal up and feel better for the long run Saturday. Again, it was the question of when is an injury a no-go injury.

I decided to try and get ready for Saturday; but, it is frustrating.

Wednesday: Woes and Weird

2010-07-21T14:29:00.000-07:00

I set out this morning for another training run dark and early around south Santa Monica.

Immediately, it all seemed a struggle, just not much energy or more worryingly even enthusiasm.

I headed towards Santa Monica Airport and felt a twinge, right where I had pulled a muscle July 4, and from then on it was sore.

I slowed and tried to just keep going. Unfortunately, it was another survival run.

I trotted around the area and as I headed home saw something moving in front of me.
It turned out to be a raccoon out foraging. When a car approached, I saw it disappear down a storm drain! A storm drain?

I made it back a bit disappointed; but, I guess some miles, even if very slow, are better than no miles.

35.12 of running
2.71 miles
12:57 pace

Heat!

2010-07-19T13:43:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning meant it was time to visit the LA Running Club for the weekly run.

Unlike prior weeks it was a morning of bright sun and heat. The waves looked quite inviting.

I set out on a shorter run and headed south along the dirt. I soon felt glad to be carrying a water bottle with me. The Santa Monica Pier which was the original goal was crossed and I headed a bit further than initially planned reaching the #1 LA Roadrunners water station at the hotels.

I gulped some water and headed back. I was doing alright; but, it seems rather sluggish and lethargic when I tried to run or especially accelerate.

I made it back, gratefully got some Gatorade and pretzels, and began thinking.

56:37 of running
4.36 miles
11:50 pace

Friday Night Lights

2010-07-19T13:25:00.000-07:00

I ran Friday night for a few reasons.

One being I needed to as my scheduling had been off due to events. The other being I needed to release some energy froma lot of recent frustrating events.

I set out for Clover Park and the airport area again. I am used to running in the dark; but, nighttime is a lot different from pre-dawn. Far more people are out and about. There is much more traffic. It is noisier.

Still, I ran around and tried to get some miles in for the evening.

It was a decent run; but, not great. I was glad to just release the energy and feel at least momentarily productive.

31:27 of running
2.56 miles
12:16 pace

My Running Tour 2010-2011

2010-07-16T13:30:00.000-07:00

LA Marathon - March, 21, 2010, Dodger Stadium to Santa Monica FINISHED!
All Star Game Charity 5K - July 11, 2010, Anaheim Stadium FINISHED!

Upcoming

Baldwin Park Pride of the Valley 5K - August 7, 2010, Baldwin Park
LA Rock 'n' Roll 1/2 Marathon - October 24, 2010, Los Angeles
LA Marathon - March 20, 2011, Dodger Stadium to Santa Monica

Marathon 2!

2010-07-16T13:29:00.001-07:00

Well, I am excited as I am now signed up for the 2011 LA Marathon and 2010-2011 LA Roadrunners.

Hopefully, I keep learning new things and do much better.

Paradox of Running

2010-07-14T12:45:00.000-07:00

I set out Wednesday, dark and early, to run a bit. It is a cutback week on my schedule from LA Running Club, which helps!

I got up and felt relatively good and set off to run around the Pico Neighborhood and Santa Monica Airport.

I felt I was doing decently and physically felt alright considering. My muscle pull was making its presence felt; but, overall, knee was not acting up, felt strong, etc.

Then, I reached a red light and looked down at my Garmin ... oh, oh. Not so good pacewise. Just disappointing as I felt faster.

I continued on and completed the run; but, the paradox of feeling better while doing worse is bothering me.

32:13 of running
2.73 miles
12:44 pace

All Star Medal

2010-07-12T14:07:00.000-07:00

After the race ...

All Star Game!

2010-07-12T13:28:00.000-07:00

Sunday, I managed a day off from church work and headed back to the homeland, Anaheim!

Dark and early I set of for the All Star Game Charity 5K & Fun Run at Anaheim Stadium (a.k.a. Angel Stadium of Anaheim), host of this year's All Star game as well as home to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (a.k.a. California Angels, Anaheim Angels, ....).

It was exciting, though I was nervous after Saturday's troubles. I arrived early as they were still setting up registration.

Soon enough, I began check-in to find my name listed TWICE. This made it a bit more challenging to get my bib; but, it all worked out and I got my bib, chip, and shirt! I was surprised there was no swag bag.

I stretched and tried to keep loose. I also visited the few sponsor booths and managed a free shirt for my efforts.

A treat was I got to meet up with a high school classmate; so, we found each other amid the crowd and spoke a bit. Servite forever.

Soon enough, it was time to go to the starting area. It was kind of disorganized and I could not get in the right corral since it meant having to climb over a barrier, which seemed less than wise with my muscle pull.

Finally I got in the over 12 minutes corral and soon realized there were problems. Little kids, people who obviously could not keep a 12:00 pace, etc. were way ahead of me in corrals. Oh well, this was not really a race for me, per se. It was more recovery run, working on form, and enjoying the experience.

They introduced numerous cancer charity speakers. Their groups benefited from Major League Baseball's event. Then they introduced old familiar names ... Harold Reynolds, Reggie Jackson, Tim Salmon, Bobby Grich ... I am a devout Dodgers fan; but, still, it was neat.

Finally the horn sounded and after a few minutes I reached the starting line and began picking my way through the crowd. It was Servite track all over again.

The police had done a nice job making the course clear and the streets of Anaheim are in far better condition than Los Angeles. I was not going all out; but, I was working and also feeling much better than expected considering Saturday. I began picking off runners as well.

One big issue was people who should have been behind me in placement were not and they would stop suddenly or take pictures or walk slowly or just not up to the 5K that day. I almost ran over several.

Running along to Orangewood, State College, Katella ... it was fun. The Gatorade and water helped as well.

Eventually, after a relatively easy little hill, that claimed a lot of people ... it was back to the stadium parking lot.

Then came the real fun, getting to run on the warning track. I felt a burst of energy and good for whatever reason and started passing people and speeding up. I definitely had negative splits.

Then it was out after doing the loop. (One cool thing was the announcers randomly announcing runners in the stadium over the public address system).

I turned the corner and saw the finish line and put a little sprint on ... and finished!

This race also offered a very nice medal (for a 5K!); so, i picked that up, water bottle and some banana pieces.

5K complete! Not a P.R.; but, it felt good and much better than Saturday.

31:12 of running
3.12 miles of running
9:57 pace

Saturday Struggles

2010-07-12T13:18:00.001-07:00

I had not run since Monday evening when I arrived at the LA Running Club event Saturday. A pulled muscle had driven me to the sidelines; so, I was a bit leery.

I set out on an eight miler decently heading south to the Santa Monica Pier on another overcast day.

I reached the pier and had a sinking feeling, just a massive drop in energy. Still, I kept on, just slower, and in some pain as the muscle pull made its presence known.

Eventually, I reached the trunaorund just beyond Windward in Venice and headed back.

I struggled mightily. The wheels were not working well and it reverted back to survival run-level.

Finally, I made it back to the start.

I got some Gatorade and pretzels and perked up a bit. I then spoke with representatives from KSwiss who were helpful with some ideas and made it seem a bit better.

Still, what might have been ...

1:41.57 of running
8.04 miles
12:41 pace

Pulling the Wrong Way

2010-07-06T13:45:00.000-07:00

Monday was a holiday and a rare chance to run with the LA Running Club from the KSwiss store.

Several members suggested differing lengths. Having struggled lately while running I opted for the Totem Pole and back, more or less south to north to south Santa Monica.

I set out at a decent speed; but, I still did not feel full power. When I climbed the Santa Monica Pier I really began to feel sluggish.

I reached the Totem Pole and headed back. A short while later I felt some soreness above my right hip and quickly realized I had pulled the dreaded something muscle, which made for an interesting return.

I eventually made it back to KSwiss and enjoyed some strawberries, pretzels, a banana and Gatorade; but, I felt frustrated again.

1:02.37 of running
5.31 miles
11:50 pace

Slowly ...

2010-07-04T16:39:00.000-07:00

Saturday was another run for the LA Running Club.

Despite it being July, it was overcast and grey, which actually made it easier to run with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists on the Strand.

I set out still trying the new stride ... and feeling new aches and pains: ankle, knee, etc. Ugh.

I ran the usual route south to the Santa Monica Pier and the back north to the Totem Pole. I did have Mitch along for part of it which helped a lot.

I felt a bit better than usual; but, still, I am a long way from what I would like to be able to do and that just adds to the frustration.

1:33.52 of running
8.10 miles
11:35 pace

Run by Night

2010-07-01T16:40:00.000-07:00

I have slowly resumed really trying to do better with mid-week running.

I made a run around Santa Monica Airport and Clover Park Wednesday night. I needed to run and just release some pressure.

I was also working on my stride again.

I felt decent, juts not near the peak, yet again.

My stride is slowly changing, which I hope helps long-term.

40:23 of running
3.56 miles
11:23 pace

Saturday Strides

2010-07-01T16:34:00.000-07:00

Saturday meant another run with the LA Running Club.

Again, it was overcast and not the most inspiring of days; but, seeing the waves breaking was nice.

I have been experimenting with my stride and initially felt more powerful and faster. I am also trying to get in better shape ...

I ran and did the usual turnaround for the eight miles. My goal run was actually much less; but, I made it.

I felt a bit fatigued and just laggard on the way back to the LA Running Club base. I had hoped for better; but, it was decent.

Afterwards, I had a nice chat with the LA Roadrunners Senior Pace leader for group 7, Alan.

1:33:51 of running
8.03 miles
11:42 pace

Normal Service

2010-06-23T12:28:00.000-07:00

Tuesday marked the resumption of midweek running.

I finally felt at least a bit motivated to set out; so, I did ... dark and early in Santa Monica.

I was trying to work on my form as had been discussed at the Saturday workshop. I also wanted to see how I would feel.

I was feeling relatively comfortable and felt like I was faster coasting around Santa Monica Airport's perimeter.

Reality was different ... I was not faster.

Still, it was nice to feel I was doing well ... and half the game seems to be mental (if not more).

32:20 of running
2.70 miles
11:59 pace

Sunday Sun

2010-06-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning was a post-long run run.

I felt a bit better and no really significant soreness, which was a plus.

I headed around Clover Park and Santa Monica Airport and made it back home to get cleaned up for the day.

30:88 of running
2.51 miles
11:26 pace

Plugged Nickel

2010-06-22T14:04:00.000-07:00

Saturday meant another chance to run with the LA Running Club.

Since there was a strength and stretching workshop I wanted to attend at 8:30 with one of the board members, I cut short my run to a nickel ... five miles.

I started out decently; but, it just was not a good run. I was wondering if the engine would stop working before the Santa Monica Pier!

I kept on to the hotels, took in some water, and crossed the bikepath. I just felt like the weather ... blah.

I was going, but not well, when I hit the turnpoint at Ocean Park. I headed back and was really just trying to move forward. It was far from a classic.

I made it back thankfully, just down from how I had run.

I did go to the stretching and strength workshop which was quite good. I also got some technique hints.

So, it was a plugged nickel of a run; but, I got my two cents in at the workshop.

1:02.11 of running
5.24 miles
11:51 pace

Looking for Consistency

2010-06-13T14:49:00.000-07:00

I set out Sunday early for a little trot. I chose the normal Sunday route around the Santa Monica Airport's northern end and Clover Park.

I felt decent; but, it was not powerful or confident. It was akin to the rather dull, June Gloom, weather.

I finished and made it home; but, just need to get it going better ... much better.

A tad off of last week again:

2.87 miles
32:59 of running
12:21 pace

Continuing ...

2010-06-13T14:43:00.000-07:00

Saturday came and I set out again to meet up with the LA Running Club for a long run. Between events and just feeling down/fed up with a lot of things, it has been hard to get myself motivated to run midweek, which is scary.

I reached the Totem Pole and waited. None of my usual possible partners were there; so, I set out on the usual 8 Miler heading south.

It was overcast again; but, there were a lot of pedestrians as well as muddy paths, which made the trip a bit harder.

I felt alright starting and past the Santa Monica Pier; but, then felt a bit drained for some reason. I continued past the Venice marijuana shops, reaching Windward, then Speedway and went to the next sidestreet for the turnaround.

I chugged back to the origin, feeling rather nothing ... not pain and not good ... just there.

At last I made it ... just a bit slower than last week and a little bit further.

They did have a representative from Top to Top there; so, I signed up for the raffle.

8.03 miles
1:34.32 of running
11:45 pace

A Bit Better

2010-06-06T12:00:00.001-07:00

I set out for a post-long run trot Sunday morning around south Santa Monica.

I did not really have a goal in time or distance; so, it took a bit of pressure off.

I actually felt better than expected and felt faster than expected, which was a nice surprise.

The reality was I was not as fast; but, at least it felt decent. That is a bit of progress. I was also faster by a bit than last Sunday; so, that was pleasant.

2.70 miles
33:05 of running
12:16 pace

Blowing Off Steam

2010-06-05T16:50:00.000-07:00

I have had a hard week this week with a lot of nonsense on many fronts, particularly work.

I had not run since Monday and was sore Tuesday and Wednesday; but, I was kind of looking forward to running Saturday, even while wondering if it would be another painful trial.

I met up with the LA Running Club at the Totem Pole as usual and prepared. I set off on another solo mission of eight miles. I just needed to think and running helps.

I headed first around the Totem Pole, tapped the knees hopefully, and headed south towards the Santa Monica Pier. Much like I was feeling, it was all cloudy and overcast and no breeze. I was doing alright, considering.

I ran into Mitch from LA Roadrunner Run Group 7 on the way. He was recovering from injury and broke off at the Casa del Mar. I continued onwards after a pause for water.

I headed down into the familiar south Santa Monica and Venice stretch. I hit Windward and went a bit down Speedway before turning around to return to base. I stopped for water again.

I was chugging along alright, a bit slower than the downward leg though.

I crossed the pier and up to Ocean Avenue. The paths were often muddy which was a bad combination when mixed with sand from the beachfront part of the run.

I made it back ... not in great time or condition; but, I made it ... and a bit faster than last week.

Live to run another day.

8.00 miles
1:32.23 of time
11:33 pace

Holiday Haul

2010-06-01T13:59:00.000-07:00

Since Monday was Memorial Day and besides being a day to remember those who sacrificed so much, it was a day off from work, I was able to go for the first time to the LA Running Club event held every Monday.

It is basically a 5-Miler which starts from the K-Swiss store in Santa Monica. I arrived and saw the senior pace leader of LA Roadrunners Group 7, Alan; we had a nice chat.

It came time to run and as we started ... I noticed Garmin must have been thrown by being indoors; so, I was unable to get it to measure data correctly.

I got off reasonably well; but, soon felt laggard. Perhaps it was just the overall tiredness I have felt lately, the late afternoon start, the resuming running after so long, ... I just was not going well.

I chugged along and followed some others; instead of the normal route to the Totem Pole, they opted for the beach run due to holiday crowds on Santa Monica Pier.

I was far from graceful and just kept going and turned around at Back on the Beach. Somehow, I made it back as my knee started to get sore.

Then it was time for Gatorade and bananas.

Not the best run; but, I guess some struggling miles are better than no miles.

Sunday Sun Trot

2010-05-30T13:56:00.000-07:00

After the eight miler Saturday, I wanted to see how I would react the following day. So, I got up at dawn and set out for a trot around south Santa Monica and Clover Park.

I did have a bit of soreness in the knee again; but, it was not anything unusual. My calves and thighs felt a bit stiff as well. The one thing I noticed was just a lack of energy, perhaps due to run plus a long day at church Saturday and not getting home until late. I was running, just quite slowly.

I made it to the park and I was stunned to see it empty on a stunning morning; I stopped just to take it in and enjoy the silence.

I got some water and went back at it and headed for home and a shower.

32:24 of running
2.57 miles
12:37 pace

Back In Service

2010-05-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

Well, after two weeks of trying to figure out what was wrong with y running and basically everything else along with a side trip to San Jose, I decided to give running another go.

So, I went to the Totem Pole for the weekly LA Running Club.

I am not training for any proper races right now; so, the suggested course was eight miles.

I set out on a solo mission at first briefly heading north to tap the actual totem pole before heading south. I got the knees on the lowest figure tapped for luck and off I went. The weather was amazing with bright sunshine and great views of the Pacific Ocean and the beach. It was perfect for the tourists visiting Santa Monica.

I was initially doing about 10:25 pace; but, I slowed down fearing a post-layoff meltdown. Still, it felt good to be cruising again and soon enough I was on the Santa Monica Pier. I made the descent down to beach level and continued to the hotels, where I simulated the water station for the LA Roadrunners.

I kept going on the usual path and was soon crossing into Venice and the line of marijuana stores, I mean clinics. Soon enough I glimpsed the flag poles at Windward and the familiar starting point. I went down Speedway and turned back to the beachside after a few blocks. I was back at Windward and stopped for water.

I started up again and soon met up with a fellow runner from my original group, Run 8. So, we ended up trotting and chatting up the coast. He was going to stop; but, kept going. I think it also helped me a great deal just being in group running-mode.

I reached the LA Running Club tent and stopped to stretch and then get some Gatorade and pretzels.

I surprised myself by running the eight miles; so, not a bad restart.

1:33.37 of running
8.01 miles
11:41 pace

Run to Live?

2010-05-10T12:15:00.000-07:00

Sunday was originally going to be an 8-miler with LA Running Club since I did not have CCD class.

After Saturday's debacle and frustration, I thought it best not to try it as it was to be a group run and not a solo mission.

So, I set off on a little tour of the Pico neighborhood and Santa Monica Airport area.

My calves and thighs felt sore pretty early on; but, at least it was daylight.

I went around and got back on a modest run. After Saturday, it was an improvement; but, it was not anything to be proud of finishing.

32:18 of running
2.68 miles
12:03 pace

A Bad Run

2010-05-09T16:33:00.000-07:00

I have seen the term "junk miles" in some running publications, the miles runners do these as kind of filling in time.

Well, Saturday, I had "crap miles."

Again, without a scheduled run, I was on "fun run" status and not really knowing too many people like me at LA Running Club, I set off solo on the scheduled eight miles.

It was very beautiful with the waves and sunshine and palm trees.

My first mile went well.

After that, it got bad, very fast. I felt sore and just sluggish. I was struggling by the time I even made the Santa Monica Pier. It was embarrassing.

I kept going and headed into Venice and Windward and a block beyond. I then looped and headed back to the starting point.

I was more chugging along than anything. No real flow. No real energy. I just was not in a good place (may be it is like the rest of my life?).

I made it back and stretched. Then, it was time for Gatorade. Plus, there were samples of a new nutrient, Agel.

I then headed back to St. Anne's and my car. Later that day I felt sore and just depressed about the run and a lot of things.

Oh well, I hope it is just a one-off as It was a bad, bad run. Eight miles should be easy ... and they were not.

8 miles
1:41.33 running
12:43 pace (horrible)

Hazardous Duty

2010-05-07T11:54:00.000-07:00

I had my first run this morning since last Saturday's 7.72.

I wanted to run this week; but, first it was a little collection of blood under the skin of my foot bothering me. Then, I somehow picked up a cold. So, no running ... alas.

I was asked to run Friday at a Catholic schools' jog-a-thon. So, I got out my trusty Garmin (duh), my original old Brooks, normal shorts, and then the supplied t-shirt (heavier than normal ...).

It also became warm in Baldwin Park. The whole school above first grade first walked a lap of the course. (The kindergartners had a separate bike lap area).

Then, we started. They had an interesting course running through gaps in buildings and some chokepoints. They also wanted the walkers to stay to the right and the runners to the left.

On the first lap some kids immediately went walking ... others set out on full sprints.

It was hard to run, especially with the really little kids., since I knew colliding with a kid was not going to turn out well ... for them. So, I tried to be really careful. Also, the chokepoints took away momentum. The kids were nice and friendly; but, after lap 1 many walked and they were all over (not just on the right side).

Around lap 4 I was in cruise control and had a kid just stop right in front of me. I slammed on the brakes and something happened in my lower back as it got tight.

I kept going but slowed a bit.

It was still fun and a decent workout.

35:31 of running
10:28 pace
3.39 miles

Hmmm ... There is Another Way to Run?

2010-05-03T12:09:00.000-07:00

After a long period of rest and hoped for injury recovery, I set out to return to at least medium-distance run with the LA Running Club.

I went to the rally point near the Totem Pole on a very bright, warm Saturday morning with wonderful views of the ocean and beach.

After some welcoming remarks and plans, they asked who was planning for what race, etc. As I am not doing any near-time long races, I was designated "fun run"category. This also led to a solo run.

So, unlike LA Roadrunners where we head north along Ocean Avenue; I headed ... south! It was the tried and true route in reverse.

I got out pretty fast and felt good, going under 10:00 pace for the first two miles, which surprised me for having not run much lately. Soon, it was onto the Santa Monica Pier. When I reached the Casa Del Mar Hotel, I simulated a water stop (I had my own bottle) and slowed down the pace.

I continued on south along the old route, including the tradition of the black cap backwards between Santa Monica Blvd. and ocean park, and crossed into Venice.

I reached Windward and the flag poles and made a second simulated water stop and headed back up to Santa Monica. Because of the recent storms, there was sand deposits on some of the trail.

I climbed up the incline and then the Pier and made it back relatively comfortably.

I stopped, stretched, had some Gatorade, and then thought about some things while overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

I was satisfied with the run. I know I can and should go further and faster; but, for a first time back, it was decent.

1:25.35 of running
7.72 miles
11:05 pace

On the Road Again

2010-04-27T12:19:00.000-07:00

This morning dark and early was my seocnd day of running following the re-start.

I was interested in how I would fare running consecutive days after the layoff.

I ran basically the same course around south Santa Monica as Monday and with rather similar results. My knee was a little tender; but, it felt decent and afterwards it has felt better than when I was not running!

This is encouraging.

I do need to get back into racing shape, lengthen the runs, and quicken the pace ...

31:12 of running
2.58 miles
12:05 pace (1 second slower than yesterday)

It's Baaaaaack

2010-04-26T13:20:00.000-07:00

This morning I finally got a chance to try running again.

I had decided to rest my knee and the past few weeks have seen various levels of difficulty and soreness.

After giving it 30 days of relative ease (no running since the Victory Run), I got up dark and early this morning for a test trot.

I took a little lap around Pico and then towards Santa Monica Airport. Nothing too spectacular or fast; but, I made it. A little sore.

The speed was not very high; the senior pace leader for my LA Roadrunners group had said restart slowly (in fact this pace was probably quicker than suggested!). Plus, I was not sure what to expect and felt better having some success than risking disaster.

The big thing was starting again. Now, to see what tomorrow brings ...

31:09 of running
12:04 pace (slow :-( )
2.58 miles

Top 10 Moments for My Marathon

2010-04-18T14:01:00.000-07:00

Well, just ten moments from the whole process ....

1. Finishing!

2. Starting the Los Angeles Marathon ... I Love L.A.

3. Starting LA Roadrunners

4. People Reading and Commenting on Blog

5. Finishing the 20-Miler ... Struggling, But Finishing

6. The 15-Miler in the Rain

7. Hearing L.A. Roadrunners Chant the first time

8. "Menudo Time" on San Vicente during the Marathon

9. Newspaper Article ... Surprise I Never Expected When This All Started

10. Dog Attack ... Not Fun

Honorable Mentions: Alex talking to me about the "You can stop running or run and risk permanent injury" decision, Certificate After the 20-Miler, First 5K, The Feeling on Mile 25 Turn, The Ongoing Pain-Run Decision, Getting to Go on the Dodger Stadium Outfield ... TWICE!, getting to Go on the Dodger Stadium Infield ... once!, getting to Go to the Stadium Club at Dodger Stadium (yes, I guess it is obvious I am a Dodgers' fan)

My Marathon Song

2010-04-18T13:40:00.000-07:00

I have always had an odd knack for liking theme songs for big things. I am not sure why; I just do. The LA Roadrunners never mentioned this.

Anyways, when this all started, I decided I needed one for my attempt to run a marathon. My life was really in tatters ... breakup, job loss, death of my uncle, niece being sick ... way too much, way too fast. It had been (and still is to a degree) a big struggle.

So, I thought and thought ...

Then it hit me. I chose a song I liked a lot. Coincidentally, the band is from my dad and uncle's hometown, Wigan, England. The song just spoke to me (well except the line about never praying ... I did and do). This was a song I played throughout preparing for the Los Angeles Marathon, before many weekday runs and before and after all the long runs with the Roadrunners. It was a lot different from the adrenaline-building ones I used in track and soccer.

I chose "Bittersweet Symphony" by The Verve. (see down for the video)

'Cause it's a bittersweet symphony, this life
Try to make ends meet
You're a slave to money then you die

I'll take you down the only road
I've ever been down
You know the one that takes you to the places where all the veins meet yeah,

No change, I can change
I can change, I can change
But I'm here in my mold
I am here in my mold
But I'm a million different people from one day to the next
I can't change my mold
No, no, no, no, no

Well I never pray
But tonight I'm on my knees yeah
I need to hear some sounds that recognize the pain in me, yeah
I let the melody shine, let it cleanse my mind, I feel free now
But the airways are clean and there's nobody singing to me now
No change, I can change
I can change, I can change
But I'm here in my mold
I am here in my mold
And I'm a million different people from one day to the next
I can't change my mold
No, no, no, no, no I can't change
I can't change

'Cause it's a bittersweet symphony, this life
Try to make ends meet
Try to find some money then you die
I'll take you down the only road I've ever been down
You know the one that takes you to the places where all the things meet yeah
You know I can change,
I can change I can change, I can change
But I'm here in my mold
I am here in my mold
And I'm a million different people from one day to the next

I can't change my mold
No, no, no, no, no
I can't change my mold no, no, no, no, no,
I can't change
Can't change my body, no, no, no

I'll take you down the only road
I've ever been down
I'll take you down the only road
I've ever been down
Been down
Ever been down
Ever been down
Ever been down
Ever been down
Have you ever been down?
Have you've ever been down?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3lTQljbKLw

It is a song that has always struck me and seemed appropriate ... trying to make sense of life and trying to change. I have been trying to become better through all of this and it has been a long journey since the day in March 2009 on Wigan Pier. Hopefully, I have changed ... at the least, I ran the road.

My Marathon: Part XI

2010-04-18T13:22:00.000-07:00

I had crossed the line ... I had run the Los Angeles Marathon.

I was kind of expecting a lightning-bolt moment ... instead, it was kind of, "Hmmm, now what do I do." I did not cry or kneel or anything. I guess I should have done something better.

I knew there was a medal waiting somewhere ... just where? This was different from the 5K i did where people were right there as you crossed.

The woman who had been coordinating the LA Roadrunners practices saw me and the grey shirt and said, "Congratulations." which was nice.

I managed to cross the line functioning; so, no medical care needed. I just started walking. I got the largish heat shield sheet (I need to be warmer? What?).

Then I saw them ... the volunteers with the medals! I walked over and happily received mine around my neck from a nice volunteer woman. I gave a big "THANK YOU!" I had my medal ... I finished (unlike Gordon Ramsay!).

I then saw another Group 7er and Joan the paceleader and we congratulated each other and talked a bit about the race.

I started walking towards the Santa Monica Pier when I saw Danny from Group 7. He was sitting down; so, I went and gave him a big handshake. He got up and we headed down the walkway.

Next came food ... yeah! I received a banana (of course), some more Powerade, some water, a whole bag (!) of bagels, and some nuts as I went down the assembly line-like process.

I now had a handful of food; but, then I saw the photo booth ... so, we both stopped there and had the photo taken with the medal.

Next I saw a friend from Knights of Columbus volunteering with Santa Monica Police Department; so, I had a chat with him. I think he was a tad surprised to see me.

Next came the slow progress and then heading down the Pier. Danny saw a few friends and we all stopped half-way down. I called my parents, a brother and a sister to say I had made it! The last two had gotten worried as the progression emails had stopped half-way through the race.

Eventually, we made it down the hill and want to the Expo. I recollected my kit bag; but, I never did change gear. Danny and I headed to the surprisingly deserted Roadrunners' tent. I am not sure where everyone had gone as it was not like we were hours behind. After some food and relaxation, we both headed around the Expo.

We got a few free samples. Then Danny went to meet his friends to go home ... and after a circuitous route, I headed for Ye Olde Ship.

I had waited a long, long time for this ... I ordered a Boddington's (The Cream of Manchester!) and fish and chips. Yum. Yum. Yum. I thought about my uncle and hoped it had all come true.

After the meal and beer, I started the walk back to St. Anne's. 26.2 miles and ... then walk some more! It was great as around downtown runners with medals and I would exchange "Congratulations!" No time questions. Just mutual respect.

I got back to church and functioning well enough ... it was back to normal: downed an Advil, did paperwork, changing into decent clothes, and then organizing 6 p.m. Mass.

I was now a Marathoner!

My Marathon: Part X

2010-04-18T12:46:00.000-07:00

Having made it to Mile 25, I was really getting excited. Obviously, the end was nigh. I did a little revving up motion with my hand.

Then, it was seriously time to revert back to sprinting days. I really went back ... all the way to crossing my right arm over my chest in track turn style.

I did have a nice surprise ... I heard a voice yelling "Mike Ward!" and I glanced and saw a friend from church on his bike taking in events right at the final turn.

At this point I started to lock on the end. I could see the Mile 26 Marker and the subsequent finish line marker. I felt strong, surprisingly, and I felt I could go for speed, as I hoped; so, I did.

I had dreamed about this more or less ... being able to sprint at the end. Being able to go back to the roots ... Servite track. (It must have been noticeable as a fellow Group 7er said she looked up and saw me start to "book it" and decided she should go faster as well).

I began seeing not runners in front; but, "targets." I automatically started plotting attack angles, just like the 800s and Mile Relays and 2 Miles. It worked. I passed a lot of people (I knew it then and now have it confirmed by RunPix ... over the last 4.5 miles, 56 mean people passed me .... I passed 1,177!!!!)

There were lots more people on the sides now; but, their faces just blurred.

My knee was tender; but, I kept going. Crossed Montana. Idaho. Washington. California Here I Come!

Mile 26 ... now it is coming.

.2 miles should seem like nothing and I was moving well; but, it seemed a lot longer than .2 miles!

Wilshire.

Arizona.

Full speed ahead ... dead sprint.

Santa Monica Boulevard ... We Love It! FINISH!

I had done it. I crossed. Los Angeles Marathon ... check!

Official time ... 5:06 (after a few days!). 26.55 miles according to Garmin.

My Marathon: Part IX

2010-04-16T14:13:00.001-07:00

As a LA Roadrunner, I was on San Vicente doing training runs numerous times. The San Vicente Urban Obstacle Course became a familiar place, even though storms sometimes eliminated it from our coursework.

Now, I was running the Los Angeles Marathon and I saw that famous island in the middle of the street on the border of Santa Monica and Los Angeles. This time I got to run on the street and not the Urban Obstacle Course of the grassy island with its holes, roots, signs, and other ankle-turning challenges.

Mentally it was great. I knew it was going to be getting easy since the street angles downhill from Los Angeles to Santa Monica. I knew I was close to the end, basically just a 5K. I used to think how odd it was when they would say "Just a 10K"or "Just a 5K"left at the Roadrunners; but, now, I was thinking it!

I felt strong. The pain and agony and all I had heard about and may be feared were not there. I probably felt better than I did early in the race which shocked me!

I was also passing a lot of people easily; I was stunned.

I saw that familiar City of Santa Monica sign and the exclusive houses. I saw the numbers of the streets getting smaller. My pace was getting faster, not slower, which was a nice feeling. My fears of exceeding 20 miles were fading quickly.

I got my last water cup at Mile 24. I was not having problems with dehydration; so, I concluded I could go the rest of the way non-stop. The Roadrunners training had far fewer water stations than the marathon (for comparison, one would be at 26th and San Vicente, one at about Mile 25/Totem Pole, and one at the Casa del Mar Hotel!).

I got my water ... looked up ... there was the sea! The sight I had been waiting a long time for and been thinking about for months.

I had discussed how it would feel during the long runs with my partners. Now, I was living it. I saw Mile 25 Marker and made the turn ...

Motivational Tools

2010-04-16T13:49:00.000-07:00

When I was a Servite lad, I had learned many of the dark arts of mental preparation for sports. The teams I was a part of often had a huge advantage as we were mentally stronger than other teams.

The LA Roadrunners had discussed the mental part a bit as well. One of the speakers dealt with motivation and focus for the Los Angeles Marathon, which was good. Still, I felt I needed a bit more being a rookie and having struggled with the 20-Miler.

My first step was shoe selection. I went with the pair that had a nice blood stain from the wet and wild 15-Miler. I wanted the memory of the preparation to be there and always present. All those months of work and training ... I had my reminder.

Next was the caps as I discussed. I had my Roadrunners Group 7 cap; but, I swapped it out in Century City for my black standard. I wanted that little boost of mental energy.

I also added some decorations to my shoes. In track and soccer, I had only had my name on my spikes and boots. I felt I needed a bit more for the marathon ... so, I added in black ink:

- ADW for my uncle
- JWW for my dad who has been facing some health situation
- four Ds ... Desire. Dedication. Discipline. Determination.
- Credo

They were all on the back of the heel; but, I knew they were there.

Any way you can, eh?

I

My Marathon: Part VIII

2010-04-14T12:42:00.000-07:00

Having cleared the Veterans Administration facility, I was now heading closer and closer to the homeland, Santa Monica and the happy training grounds of the northern end of the LA Roadrunners course.

Right before the Mile 21 Marker, there was a left turn on the course and I got my first sight of the magic words "San Vicente." It was still Los Angeles; but, San Vicente is a big deal when you are a member of the LA Roadrunners. I got a bit of happiness in my system knowing it was now getting interesting. San Vicente is the end of the line on the northern side of the LA Roadrunners running course. It means I would soon be entering home turf. I passed Mile 21 and saw I was still passing lots of people.

Now, I got my unexpected fun moment for the race. One of the Roadrunners pace captains has such an upbeat attitude and every long run he would say as we neared the water station"things like "Menudo Time!" ... even though for some reason the menudo never quite seemed to be on the table.

So, I am running along San Vicente and I see him just ahead; so, I sped up a bit and was just behind him. He did not know I was there.

I hear him, apparently motivating himself, call out loudly, "Menudo Time!" I was in shock; but, I sped up alongside and chirped, "What no coffee and doughnuts?" "Coffee and doughnuts" was his other frequently-used phrase. he looked at me with my grey Roadrunners shirt on and we both started laughing. I think basically people around us must have assumed heat stroke had set in or we were both just plain insane. For us, it was a bit of inside humor and for me it was like a nice, reenergizing moment of humor that really lightened the mood.

Mile 22 marker came right at Bundy ... now I was definitely in familiar territory and I was excited. Plus, without O.J. Simpson around his old hunting grounds, I could relax even more. I saw two bicycles decked out with Union Jacks (British flags) and somehow presumed they were for me (well, they were not; but, it worked at the time).

I was now in the last 4.2 miles. I was seeing the Los Angeles street numbers go higher and higher. I knew what it meant and it was good, very good.

My Marathon: Part VII

2010-04-13T14:12:00.000-07:00

Reaching Mile marker 20 more or less intact and functioning was a big moment. I was now in personal record territory with every step, since the longest LA Roadrunners run had been a shade over 20 miles.

The course now set out the West Los Angeles Veterans Administration facility for the runners. It is a huge place with loads of land donated by one of the early families of Santa Monica.

It is also hilly and kind of bookended the course along with the start. By now I noticed a lot of people who had been ahead of me were a) stopping b) walking c) off to the side in pain Somehow, I managed to avoid all of these; perhaps all those dark and very early mornings were paying off at the right time?

The VA Center had several hills and turns and increasing traffic as walkers clogged the road. At one point, I saw James from Group 7. I asked him if he was o.k. and he replied he was almost out of energy. I offered him a Gu Chomp; but, he said he would make it.

Soon, I had a surprise as for some reason I paid attention to the side of the course and saw the friend from church who had been there so often on the side during the training runs. He was waiting for his daughter to come and did not notice me until I called out rather loudly, "Cadena!" So, it was nice seeing a familiar face.

Next came a big hill. This seemed to be very difficult for many people. For whatever reason I felt pretty good on it and passed a lot of people. May be it was the Servite Days again ... all those times doing stadiums and The Bowl in Hell Weeks ... in a semi-Crocodile Dundee-phrase, "That's not ... THOSE were hills!"

Regardless, I made it to the top and kept going. That was a good feeling as I really felt like this was going to happen. The Los Angeles Marathon now seemed not only possible, but quite likely.

Later, at the LA Running Club Victory Run event, they said an analyst had determined the now newly-named "Purple Heart Hill" was more difficult than the more well-known Heartbreak Hill at the Boston Marathon. The president of the marathon also made an interesting point. he said many people like the Chicago Marathon because it is flat. He questioned why and said the fact that this course is hilly and challenging should make us MORE eager to run it, not less! Interesting way of looking at things ... a lot like the Servite way.

My Marathon: Part VI

2010-04-12T16:39:00.000-07:00

Shortly after the cap adjustment and seeing my old work, I hit Mile Marker 18. Being on Santa Monica Boulevard was reassuring because I was quite familiar with it from working in Century City. I think being able to see sights I knew helped especially since it was my first marathon. For example, there is the large Mormon temple and grounds on the north side of the street.

I was feeling pretty good considering I had run a decent distance. Still, I was a bit nervous as this was the zone I had started having trouble with in the lone LA Roadrunners really long run, the 20-Miler. I also was, despite the number of runners and spectators, on my own. I had completely lost contact with my group, my sub-group, ...

So, in a way I did not expect, I went back to the sprinter days, something I had been trying not to do all these months. I started recalling the mantras: Desire. Dedication. Discipline. Determination. How a Friar does not quit. mental strength. I obviously had all the training with the Roadrunners which was great; but, when it came to the mental side, I was back to the core, being a Servite Friar.
It seemed to work!

I passed runners in really serious pain. I felt no need to stop for aid. I remembered to steer clear of the "helpful" fire hydrants and hoses spraying water (our senior pace leader warned wet shoes and long run can yield blisters).

I felt a lot more confident than I expected and I also felt more comfortable than on the 20-Miler. My knee was a little sore; but, I was surviving.

Mile Marker 19 came ... and I was still going and a lot stronger than on the 20-Miler. The streets of Westwood did not seem intimidating. My concern began to erode. Sure enough, here comes Mile Marker 20 ... and I am still functioning.

Party Like a Roadrunner

2010-04-12T12:50:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to a celebration. I really needed it with some things that have gone on lately and also just thinking about all the anniversaries of last year's issues that kept coming to mind.

The LA Roadrunners held a dinner and celebration at the Stadium Club at Dodger Stadium. It was my first time in the Stadium Club and it was nice! Lots of Dodgers memorabilia, which appealed to me as a Dodgers fan, and a great view overlooking the field and stadium.

I arrived and soon saw Alan, my senior pace leader from Group 7. I wandered about and found the tables reserved for Group 7, which were also in use by my other group, Group 8! So, a nice connection, at least for me. Next I saw several of the Group 8 paceleaders, Laura, Wendy and Jessica. It was almost like the very first week, just I was dressed a tad differently.

Not many of Group 7 ended up coming, though Mitch was there and we had a good chat. All of the Lucky 7 paceleaders were ... Randy, Joan, Rita and Dave. Joan was really nice and we were comparing post-race injury status.

The Groups 7/8 tables ended up kind of in a corner with what a stadium ticket would call a "restructed view." Perhaps this was the result of Group 7's legendary ability to do things like get lost, blow through starting lines, etc.?

It was nice seeing people dressed up and wearing their medals and each chair also had an interesting bear decked out in Roadrunners gear and a medal! (Hey, I thought you had to run the 26.2 to medal ...).

What was interesting to me as ex-track was the attitude. People seem relaxed and friendly. No questions about what was your time; it was more kind of a group congratulations for making it.

The dinner was pretty good (even moreso since I did not cook). During the dinner they showed the marathon broadcast tape as well as a slide show of scenes from throughout training. In some ways they both seem like yesterday and in some ways they seem so long ago. In fact the training was a good chunk of time!

I ended up at the same table as Laura and Wendy and chatted some. I was a bit quieter than normal; I guess it was being tired and just normal take-it-all-in personality assuming the lead. Wendy was saying how she felt after her first marathon and gave some ideas. Laura talked about "that article," which I guess got more attention than I thought or ever expected

They had some presentations recognizing the executive board, the coaches, the paceleaders, and the vital water station volunteers.

We also got to hear and take part in an extended version of the LA Roadrunners cadence from Leroy, which was cool.

Afterwards, the DJ started playing music and people were dancing. It actually seemed pretty good. Lady Gaga was one. The Gap Band's "You Dropped A Bomb On Me." Swing stuff. Then a shock ... "Sauve" ... a song I have come to know quite well at St. Anne's dances. It was pretty interesting seeing all these people, well most of them, who had been out there early on Saturdays coming out to chill and enjoy themselves.

At that point it was a bit hard. Guess I was thinking about one of the other mini-disasters from March 2009 when I got dumped amidst all the other events. Hopefully, that will change one of these days as well; if I can run a bloody marathon, I can find a novia to last, right?

I ended up leaving a tad early. With work looming and the rain coming, and no novia yet, I just thought it was time.

Anyways, now I know what to do after the Los Angeles Marathon next year ...

My Marathon: Part V

2010-04-08T15:47:00.000-07:00

Once I had decided to try to run the Los Angeles Marathon, I was eagerly anticipating the route, especially with talk of it going from Dodger Stadium to Santa Monica. Being a Dodgers fan, the start interested me and being a Santa Monica resident the end interested me as well.

Obviously, the route came out before the race and I paid close attention to a certain stretch after Beverly Hills. My eyes locked on ... it was going down Santa Monica Boulevard right past my old office, the one where I was told I was being laid off.

I had actually had this part of the race discussed in the article that appeared in the Los Angeles Times.

As I left Beverly Hills, I started to notice the cluster of buildings that is Century City, picking out THE ONE, 1801 Avenue of the Stars.

I kept going and felt good, almost gaining in energy from the defiance against what the mismanagement and dishonesty at Penton Media had done. I was channeling the anger and disgust into a positive. Despite them I was succeeding.

I had been wearing a LA Roadrunners Group 7 hat up until now; but, I had a plan. A book I had read suggested mental tricks and one suggestion seemed a bit odd and cumbersome, carrying a pair of shoes to change into on the way. I had my own idea ... change caps!

I changed from the red and white Group 7 hat to my tried and true all black hat, the one I had worn on every Roadrunners run except the last fun run.

Mentally, it was a boost; symbolically, I was now running for myself. I was going by those who had harmed me severely and I was going to make it and get that medal.

It was a good feeling, a very, very good feeling.

My Marathon: Part IV

2010-04-07T16:32:00.000-07:00

Reaching Mile 13 was a big moment for me. It meant I was basically at the half-way point yes, I know 13.1 IS midway). It also meant I was beyond the part identified as the hardest by the senior pace leader (up to Mile 9). Personally, it was big as 13 is my lucky number.

I had hoped to avoid a restroom stop the entire race; but, around Mile 10 that seemed unlikely and I mentally promised myself a "reward" of a pitstop at Mile 13. The portable toilets were a short distance beyond the mile marker and I broke right and unfortunately chose the slower moving of the two lines at the two clusters. Still, exiting the plastic cell, I felt a lot more comfortable and also got a big shout from a just arriving fellow LA Roadrunner Group 7er. We exchanged smiles and hand signs and I was off again.

I was also catching some clusters of Group 8 runners and paceleaders. I felt slow; but, seeing some familiar faces and the grey Roadrunners shirts helped.

My knee was feeling better and the little stop seemed to help as well. I just felt better overall. The miles began to come a bit easier. I was able to keep a fairly consistent pace and was still running, even if a tad slower than I wanted.

I also noticed an increase in the quantity of runners off to the side with injuries or pain or exhaustion. (Gordon Ramsay who had been so promoted at the start was done at Mile 15 ... need some Lancashire-type toughness in you, Gordo?) I was thankfully feeling relatively good. No mad dashes for Salon Pas stands. No sudden stops in the road. I was moving.

Soon, I was entering Beverly Hills. It is far from home territory; but, I was familiar with it from driving through and attending a few work events there. I began to recognize some buildings.

One highlight was going down Rodeo Drive. All the really luxurious shops were closed! It was such an odd feeling.

I also passed by a townhouse having an open house. Next to a marathon? I guess with this market you need a break.

It was about now I felt like I could finish. I was not fearing the 20 Mile Marker. I felt reasonably good. I was still moving. I was not in severe pain or discomfort. I was surprised I had survived this intact, even if I was slow as could be. There was still a good distance to go; but, I felt like the mental struggle was being won. The goal seemed plausible.

Plus, I had my fun for Mile 17 coming ...

My Marathon: Part III

2010-04-05T14:53:00.000-07:00

As we had trudged towards the starting line of the Los Angeles Marathon, I had rapidly recalled some of the old Servite skills, sprinter days or not. These included soccer (moving obstacles such as water bottles and clothing from my way) and the rugby attitude (people in the way ... how do we go around or through them ... red rover the adult version).

Now, I was basically running alone despite the hordes around me and I was feeling a tad desperate. I realized suddenly that LA Roadrunners Group 7 had always been that security blanket for me and now the big one was upon me and the security blanket was long gone. I also remembered the senior pace leader saying the first nine miles were the hardest due to the hills and there were definitely some nice, challenging ones.

I had decided to basically use every water station as it was getting warm. So, I had the encouraging sign of each water station as well as the mile markers.

My knee was sore at this point and I was starting to wonder if 26.2 was doable.

Still, I did feel I was making progress. I passed Echo Lake for example. Also, the Powerade at alternating stops was a nice boost physically and mentally.

Nutritionally, I was being far more careful than on the 20-Miler. That was a key lesson! I was taking a Gu Chomp every 30 minutes and an Aleve tablet every hour, besides the water and Powerade. This schedule really helped me keep focused and the energy boost was great.

I was definitely happy to see each mile marker, knowing that it should be getting better after #9 in terms of difficulty.

For some reason I also reverted to sprinter form and often zoned out everything on the sides of the course. I remember a few things ... one sign early on with an encouraging, "The Kenyans are already finished." Seeing some Salvadoran groups on the sidewalks and thinking no pupusas today.

I did reach Mile 9 marker and felt a bit of a mental boost even as I struggled with my knee. Over a third done and still functioning.

Then it was into Hollywood and seeing the Capitol Records Tower. I almost had a collision as one runner abruptly stopped in front of me to take a picture of the Hollywood sign. Seeing the sign for La Brea was also a bit of a boost as I pictured the 10 West heading for Santa Monica! On the other hand there was a strip club offering photos with some of the "performers" for free; I refused the offer for multiple reasons.

Next was West Hollywood. Here I faced a new obstacle ... the sight of men wearing extremely little clothing gyrating on stage above the sidewalk. Some thing is just do not need to see! Full speed ahead!

I also had a few near misses at water stops as the senior pace leader warned. Many were wet and slippery and filled with paper cups flung all over and runners cutting in and out. As he suggested, I tried to go to the far end; but, sometimes, the first table would be empty. Luckily, with some hockey knowledge, I knew how to avoid checks from collisions ... better to give than receive! I also sometimes felt guilty about just throwing the cup off to the side and would try to make it into the garbage can with decent rate of success or at least close to it. I felt sorry for the wonderful volunteers who would have to play cleanup crew (having done enough post-event cleaning myself).

In my head, I began thinking about Mile 13 ... my lucky number.

My Marathon: Part II

2010-03-30T19:05:00.001-07:00

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.

Run in Feet, Dream in Miles.

2010-03-27T15:20:00.000-07:00

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

My Marathon : Part I

2010-03-26T09:59:00.001-07:00

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 ....

After the Big Day

2010-03-25T12:46:00.000-07:00

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."

Now what?

2010-03-24T16:06:00.000-07:00

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.

Still contemplating

2010-03-23T15:17:00.001-07:00

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.

Due to Technical Difficulties

2010-03-22T13:38:00.000-07:00

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.

Marathon I

2010-03-21T19:35:00.000-07:00

I DID IT!

More when I get a chance; but, I did it. I actually ran the Los Angeles Marathon.

Final Countdown

2010-03-20T15:12:00.000-07:00

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.

Getting Ready

2010-03-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

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 ...

Decorations

2010-03-19T12:50:00.000-07:00

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.

Target for Tonight ...

2010-03-19T12:30:00.001-07:00

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.

Thursday Run ... Getting Closer

2010-03-18T12:50:00.000-07:00

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

Hmmmm ... a bit more than I expected

2010-03-18T09:49:00.000-07:00

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!

ROADRUNNERS: WE ARE GROUP 7

2010-03-17T17:08:00.000-07:00

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?

I'm Ready for My Close-Up

2010-03-16T14:20:00.001-07:00

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).

Build Up

2010-03-15T13:26:00.000-07:00

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.

Last Sunday Run

2010-03-14T16:12:00.000-07:00

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

Week 27: The End of the Beginning

2010-03-13T20:08:00.000-08:00

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

30 Minutes of ...

2010-03-11T13:46:00.000-08:00

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

Another Day Closer

2010-03-10T12:08:00.001-08:00

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

I'm Not a Number ... Wait, I Am. Nevermind.

2010-03-09T13:06:00.000-08:00

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!

Walk/Jog?

2010-03-08T13:28:00.000-08:00

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

Wait, we ran what?

2010-03-07T11:45:00.000-08:00

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 ...

Old School

2010-03-04T11:32:00.000-08:00

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.