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
Showing posts with label Dodger Stadium. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dodger Stadium. Show all posts
Friday, July 16, 2010
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Top 10 Moments for My Marathon
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)
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)
Monday, April 12, 2010
Party Like a Roadrunner
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 ...
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 ...
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
My Marathon: Part II
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.
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.
Friday, March 26, 2010
My Marathon : Part I
Well, at last, March 21 came. It was THE DAY I had been waiting for and preparing for over two years (well, technically 2009 and 2010 ... so two years!).
I got up dark and even earlier than normal at a crisp 01:40. I was stunned as I actually got some sleep; I had expected to be awake and the paceleaders said expect to be nervous.
I got up, rubbed my eyes, and ate some cereal. Then I started to get my gear on; I used my Canadian heritage and did not take a lot of clothing to keep warm in the pre-dawn "cold."
I had on pretty close to my gear for a normal Saturday training run. I did put on the red and white LA Roadrunners Group 7 hat. I also had a water bottle with me and more energy gels and such than usual; so, my running belt was heavier than I am used to and prefer.
Next it was how to get to Dodger Stadium. fearing traffic after the race and not wanting to pay $17 anyways to park, I opted to park at St. Anne's. (Being a parishioner and volunteer helps at times!). I then walked from 20th and Colorado to Main and Olympic, by Santa Monica City Hall.
It was kind of eerily quiet at first; but, warm enough and my idea of staying in the shirt only proved correct.
I had my first little glitch when the draw string on my checked kit bag separated from the bag. Things like this are why I like to leave early!
I started seeing signs mentioning the marathon, mostly about street closures and parking. I also saw activity! 3 a.m. on a Sunday? What could be happening? What kind of idiot is out at that time of morning?
I turned the corner onto main and saw a group of buses, nice buses! No banana buses for this one. The volunteers were very friendly and encouraging and wished me good luck and even said, "Sir." Wow! All you have to do is sign up for this thing and you get treated well!
I got on a bus and took a seat. There were may be 10-15 others when we left right on schedule at 03:30. Soon enough, it was on the familiar 10 East. Some talked a lot; some were laughing. I was just kind of reflecting and taking it in as an experience.
Soon enough, the bus arrived at Dodger Stadium. It was still very early; so, not many people were there. I just followed some other people. I headed off to the long row of portable toilets I had seen Saturday initially. I then began some preparations ... BodyGlide, sun tan oil, etc.
I then wandered a bit, unsure what to do. I found center field was open. So, I went in and stood on the grass again. having done it at Roadrunners, it was not quite as new; but, it was still fun. I also got to go on the infield this time!
The gear check was still closed; so, I was a bit confused as to what to do. The Roadrunners had said come to the meeting point after checking the gear.
So, I sat outside the stadium and ate my bananas for breakfast II as suggested by the paceleaders. I also noticed quite a few Santa Monica Police Department vehicles. Ah, home!
I also saw some people in Roadrunners' shirts. It was nice seeing the familiar colors.
I wandered around some more and noticed more people were arriving. Eventually, the gear check opened and I handed in my bag.
Next, I went into the stadium. The Roadrunners had been told we would have a special section as well as restrooms. Well, we got the special section and I found Group 7. The restrooms ... well, not quite. My power orange LARR wristband suddenly seemed unimportant.
I took a seat and began relaxing. It was good to see a few familiar faces.
A little while later one of the crew, Pete, came. We started talking and joking. Not exactly game face, I guess. He had missed hill training day I; so, missed they playing around on the outfield. So, he asked how to get down there ... and we both went again. Hey, I am a Dodgers fan and I will take the opportunity to get out there, race or not.
Then James came. The crew was filling in. I went to search for a restroom for a short line ... still searching! Where was the Roadrunners' special?
Then Danny came. Hey, it is just like Saturday.
We noticed the faster groups were starting to stir and get gathered and some even leaving.
Then my original partner, Alex, came by. It was great to see him. He was running despite being told he risked permanent damage from his injuries. Good guy.
Right after that group 7 moved out and headed down the concourse to leave the stadium. We were following a big blue and a big gold 7 balloons.
But, then again .... WE ARE GROUP 7. So, the group got mixed up amidst Roadrunners groups as well as non-Roadrunners and those in the back, including me, took a wrong turn. Fortunately, one of the Roadrunners administrators caught sight of us and steered us back in the right direction and we then saw the balloons.
Our little group joined up with the rest of Group 7 in the huge standard runner corral. It was incredible.
Our group was loose. We were joking ... a lot. We made jokes about everything. When they announced Chef Gordon Ramsay was running ... jokes. When they named the official starters as Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Frank McCourt ... well, loads of jokes. (Along the lines of hide the female reporters from the mayor ...).
We also noticed the massive lines for portable toilets. Incredible! Then, we saw the large number of people climbing the hills of Dodger Stadium to go take care of business in the bushes. The L.A. P.D. could have solved the city's deficit by ticketing people!'
It got serious a bit more when the wheelchair races began. Those competitors are amazing.
Then came the fun ... an announcement about the start being delayed due to people parking their cars ... ON THE FREEWAY! Apparently, traffic had been so heavy and people so desperate to get going that they were just parking on the freeway and climbing over the fence of the stadium! Unbelievable. So, it added like 25 minutes to the start and we were told 7:47 a.m. target (the jokes about Boeing being a sponsor began).
The elite women's race began. They get an 18 minute head start over the elite men in a race for a bonus $100,000.
We then prepared ourselves ... Finally, the race for the elite men began, The loudspeakers also played "I Love L.A.,"a song I like normally. We were then told we would slowly head to the actual start (and slow it was). By the time we got to the starting line, it was like 15 minutes later ... after hearing that song eight times in a row, I was beginning to go crazy!
Then we began ....
I got up dark and even earlier than normal at a crisp 01:40. I was stunned as I actually got some sleep; I had expected to be awake and the paceleaders said expect to be nervous.
I got up, rubbed my eyes, and ate some cereal. Then I started to get my gear on; I used my Canadian heritage and did not take a lot of clothing to keep warm in the pre-dawn "cold."
I had on pretty close to my gear for a normal Saturday training run. I did put on the red and white LA Roadrunners Group 7 hat. I also had a water bottle with me and more energy gels and such than usual; so, my running belt was heavier than I am used to and prefer.
Next it was how to get to Dodger Stadium. fearing traffic after the race and not wanting to pay $17 anyways to park, I opted to park at St. Anne's. (Being a parishioner and volunteer helps at times!). I then walked from 20th and Colorado to Main and Olympic, by Santa Monica City Hall.
It was kind of eerily quiet at first; but, warm enough and my idea of staying in the shirt only proved correct.
I had my first little glitch when the draw string on my checked kit bag separated from the bag. Things like this are why I like to leave early!
I started seeing signs mentioning the marathon, mostly about street closures and parking. I also saw activity! 3 a.m. on a Sunday? What could be happening? What kind of idiot is out at that time of morning?
I turned the corner onto main and saw a group of buses, nice buses! No banana buses for this one. The volunteers were very friendly and encouraging and wished me good luck and even said, "Sir." Wow! All you have to do is sign up for this thing and you get treated well!
I got on a bus and took a seat. There were may be 10-15 others when we left right on schedule at 03:30. Soon enough, it was on the familiar 10 East. Some talked a lot; some were laughing. I was just kind of reflecting and taking it in as an experience.
Soon enough, the bus arrived at Dodger Stadium. It was still very early; so, not many people were there. I just followed some other people. I headed off to the long row of portable toilets I had seen Saturday initially. I then began some preparations ... BodyGlide, sun tan oil, etc.
I then wandered a bit, unsure what to do. I found center field was open. So, I went in and stood on the grass again. having done it at Roadrunners, it was not quite as new; but, it was still fun. I also got to go on the infield this time!
The gear check was still closed; so, I was a bit confused as to what to do. The Roadrunners had said come to the meeting point after checking the gear.
So, I sat outside the stadium and ate my bananas for breakfast II as suggested by the paceleaders. I also noticed quite a few Santa Monica Police Department vehicles. Ah, home!
I also saw some people in Roadrunners' shirts. It was nice seeing the familiar colors.
I wandered around some more and noticed more people were arriving. Eventually, the gear check opened and I handed in my bag.
Next, I went into the stadium. The Roadrunners had been told we would have a special section as well as restrooms. Well, we got the special section and I found Group 7. The restrooms ... well, not quite. My power orange LARR wristband suddenly seemed unimportant.
I took a seat and began relaxing. It was good to see a few familiar faces.
A little while later one of the crew, Pete, came. We started talking and joking. Not exactly game face, I guess. He had missed hill training day I; so, missed they playing around on the outfield. So, he asked how to get down there ... and we both went again. Hey, I am a Dodgers fan and I will take the opportunity to get out there, race or not.
Then James came. The crew was filling in. I went to search for a restroom for a short line ... still searching! Where was the Roadrunners' special?
Then Danny came. Hey, it is just like Saturday.
We noticed the faster groups were starting to stir and get gathered and some even leaving.
Then my original partner, Alex, came by. It was great to see him. He was running despite being told he risked permanent damage from his injuries. Good guy.
Right after that group 7 moved out and headed down the concourse to leave the stadium. We were following a big blue and a big gold 7 balloons.
But, then again .... WE ARE GROUP 7. So, the group got mixed up amidst Roadrunners groups as well as non-Roadrunners and those in the back, including me, took a wrong turn. Fortunately, one of the Roadrunners administrators caught sight of us and steered us back in the right direction and we then saw the balloons.
Our little group joined up with the rest of Group 7 in the huge standard runner corral. It was incredible.
Our group was loose. We were joking ... a lot. We made jokes about everything. When they announced Chef Gordon Ramsay was running ... jokes. When they named the official starters as Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Frank McCourt ... well, loads of jokes. (Along the lines of hide the female reporters from the mayor ...).
We also noticed the massive lines for portable toilets. Incredible! Then, we saw the large number of people climbing the hills of Dodger Stadium to go take care of business in the bushes. The L.A. P.D. could have solved the city's deficit by ticketing people!'
It got serious a bit more when the wheelchair races began. Those competitors are amazing.
Then came the fun ... an announcement about the start being delayed due to people parking their cars ... ON THE FREEWAY! Apparently, traffic had been so heavy and people so desperate to get going that they were just parking on the freeway and climbing over the fence of the stadium! Unbelievable. So, it added like 25 minutes to the start and we were told 7:47 a.m. target (the jokes about Boeing being a sponsor began).
The elite women's race began. They get an 18 minute head start over the elite men in a race for a bonus $100,000.
We then prepared ourselves ... Finally, the race for the elite men began, The loudspeakers also played "I Love L.A.,"a song I like normally. We were then told we would slowly head to the actual start (and slow it was). By the time we got to the starting line, it was like 15 minutes later ... after hearing that song eight times in a row, I was beginning to go crazy!
Then we began ....
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Getting Ready
This morning I headed off for Dodger Stadium and the running expo to get set for the Los Angeles Marathon. On the way there, I listened to the soundtrack for my favorite movie, "Chariots of Fire."
It was a little confusing; but, I got sorted out. As mentioned by my pace leader, the bib has some wrong information ... seems I am now 68 years old. Still a male though!
The show was interesting. Lots of people. Lots of displays. Lots of free samples. Lots of other races. I did win a free meal at Rubios! Yeah. I did see Frank McCourt as well as they were doing a 5K and then a children's race.
I saw the NPN Nutrition guy who comes to the LA Roadrunners.
Kind of nice was I saw my senior pace leader ... and he was nice and encouraging as usual.
I wore my Servite shirt and ran into a few of the family.
On the way back, I passed Marathon Street! I also saw a nice Dodgers billboard saying Good Luck! Excellent.
Then it was the theme song all the way home ...
It was a little confusing; but, I got sorted out. As mentioned by my pace leader, the bib has some wrong information ... seems I am now 68 years old. Still a male though!
The show was interesting. Lots of people. Lots of displays. Lots of free samples. Lots of other races. I did win a free meal at Rubios! Yeah. I did see Frank McCourt as well as they were doing a 5K and then a children's race.
I saw the NPN Nutrition guy who comes to the LA Roadrunners.
Kind of nice was I saw my senior pace leader ... and he was nice and encouraging as usual.
I wore my Servite shirt and ran into a few of the family.
On the way back, I passed Marathon Street! I also saw a nice Dodgers billboard saying Good Luck! Excellent.
Then it was the theme song all the way home ...
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Week 27: The End of the Beginning
Today was the last group run for the LA Roadrunners. The next time we get together it will not be a Saturday. It will not be in Venice. It will not be light. It WILL be dark. It will be at Dodger Stadium. It will be the Los Angeles Marathon.
Personally, it was a bit hard as I had my mind elsewhere.
The paceleaders told us it would be a "fun run" and they even recommended NOT bringing our beloved Garmin systems and other electronics!
The weather turned out to be very beautiful, if only warm. I hope it is not this warm come marathon day. We were also told there would be five mandatory stops for a relatively short run, six miles, to California Avenue.
Before the group rallied together, though, I met up with my old partner in the parking lot. He has a vertebrate issue among other things and was told, "You can not run or you can risk permanent damage." Needless to say he is a Roadrunner and ... he chose B. He is trying to do run/walk and thinks he can do it; he did 20 miles on the beach while the group was at Dodger Stadium last week.
Our senior pace leader got us together before the run and gave us some new information on the procedures for race day. He is always right up-to-the-minute which is great. One funny thing was while he was addressing us we could hear the organizers yelling, "Where the hell is Group 6?" For once, it was not 7 getting lost, running in circles or blowing through hold lines! Yeah! It only took us 27 weeks ...
We lined up and I partnered with Danny again. It just seemed light-hearted the whole time and I was joking with people near me. I saw my friend from church again and invited him along for the run or next week's short excursion.
We hit the first and only water station at Casa del Mar and the photos started. Then we headed up the Santa Monica Pier for the last climb and took an "official" group photo for the Roadrunners at the top. (It would have been cool under the famous sign; but, not to be alas.) We then went along the now familiar climb up Ocean Avenue.
At the top of the hill, we stopped at California Avenue for more photos. It was a tad disappointing not to go to the Totem Pole just across the street one more time ... I need the luck for my knee!
Soon, we headed back home. We stopped very quickly at Ocean Avenue and Santa Monica ... the finish line. I'll be back.
and got some wonderful views of the Santa Monica Pier. Soon enough we were on it as usual; but, this time we went down the steps by Bubba Gump's. The finish expo will be there; so, now I know where. Apparently, there will be a ramp in place of the stairs as well ... presumably so we can just roll down and not have to walk down stairs after 26.2.
We made our way under the pier and headed on the familiar stretch home. Before we hit the last water station, we got reminded ... "This is your last chance to go 2 x 2 before the marathon." Ah yes, Group 7 discipline!
Eerily, the group suddenly got quiet and remained so until the end. It was just odd as all the joking ended. It was if we were on a long run again. It was striking.
When we reached the flagpole, there was a big cheer and handshakes and fist bumps. We stretched briefly and then headed to the school to pick up the very exclusive Roadrunners wristband, not available in stores mind you. Since as usual I am in the last group of the alphabet, I just naturally went to the end. No need to look! It was nice as the Canadian paceleader was distributing to W-Z!
Afterwards, I saw Nancy again and she seemed happy. I spoke for a while with Danny, Pete, and Mitch from the group plus my old partner. Then it was off for home and some needed reflection.
Game on.
6.1 Miles
1:25.24 of running.walking/stopping for photos
14:01 pace
Personally, it was a bit hard as I had my mind elsewhere.
The paceleaders told us it would be a "fun run" and they even recommended NOT bringing our beloved Garmin systems and other electronics!
The weather turned out to be very beautiful, if only warm. I hope it is not this warm come marathon day. We were also told there would be five mandatory stops for a relatively short run, six miles, to California Avenue.
Before the group rallied together, though, I met up with my old partner in the parking lot. He has a vertebrate issue among other things and was told, "You can not run or you can risk permanent damage." Needless to say he is a Roadrunner and ... he chose B. He is trying to do run/walk and thinks he can do it; he did 20 miles on the beach while the group was at Dodger Stadium last week.
Our senior pace leader got us together before the run and gave us some new information on the procedures for race day. He is always right up-to-the-minute which is great. One funny thing was while he was addressing us we could hear the organizers yelling, "Where the hell is Group 6?" For once, it was not 7 getting lost, running in circles or blowing through hold lines! Yeah! It only took us 27 weeks ...
We lined up and I partnered with Danny again. It just seemed light-hearted the whole time and I was joking with people near me. I saw my friend from church again and invited him along for the run or next week's short excursion.
We hit the first and only water station at Casa del Mar and the photos started. Then we headed up the Santa Monica Pier for the last climb and took an "official" group photo for the Roadrunners at the top. (It would have been cool under the famous sign; but, not to be alas.) We then went along the now familiar climb up Ocean Avenue.
At the top of the hill, we stopped at California Avenue for more photos. It was a tad disappointing not to go to the Totem Pole just across the street one more time ... I need the luck for my knee!
Soon, we headed back home. We stopped very quickly at Ocean Avenue and Santa Monica ... the finish line. I'll be back.
and got some wonderful views of the Santa Monica Pier. Soon enough we were on it as usual; but, this time we went down the steps by Bubba Gump's. The finish expo will be there; so, now I know where. Apparently, there will be a ramp in place of the stairs as well ... presumably so we can just roll down and not have to walk down stairs after 26.2.
We made our way under the pier and headed on the familiar stretch home. Before we hit the last water station, we got reminded ... "This is your last chance to go 2 x 2 before the marathon." Ah yes, Group 7 discipline!
Eerily, the group suddenly got quiet and remained so until the end. It was just odd as all the joking ended. It was if we were on a long run again. It was striking.
When we reached the flagpole, there was a big cheer and handshakes and fist bumps. We stretched briefly and then headed to the school to pick up the very exclusive Roadrunners wristband, not available in stores mind you. Since as usual I am in the last group of the alphabet, I just naturally went to the end. No need to look! It was nice as the Canadian paceleader was distributing to W-Z!
Afterwards, I saw Nancy again and she seemed happy. I spoke for a while with Danny, Pete, and Mitch from the group plus my old partner. Then it was off for home and some needed reflection.
Game on.
6.1 Miles
1:25.24 of running.walking/stopping for photos
14:01 pace
Monday, March 8, 2010
Walk/Jog?
Well, it was the day after the Dodger Stadium Hill Training II ... and the LA Roadruners schedule called for 30 minutes of "walk/jog." That was a new one ... so, I was a bit perplexed as to what to do.
So, I decided to set out in the evening. I had decided since my knee was a little sore driving home form Dodger Stadium that I should take the extra sleep and rest time Sunday morning and go out at night after finishing church tasks.
Out I went ... I felt pretty good, in fact the best I have felt on a Sunday run in weeks or may be months. I looked down at my Garmin and saw I was indeed doing well ... almost LT time ... and thought I better ease the throttle back if this is supposed to be a walk/jog.
I headed down towards Clover Park and did a lap as well hitting the neighboring streets around Santa Monica Airport and the Pico Neighborhood. I was able to focus on the scenery and seeing which business was gone this week, kind of the sad economic reality game. Physically I felt comfortable and relaxed, which was a nice feeling indeed.
My calves did get a little sore and my knee was a bit more tender than at the start; but, overall it was a decent run.
I got my work in and may be more importantly at this point got a good mental feeling.
34:36 of running ... a bit over
2.92 miles
11:51 pace ... there we go
So, I decided to set out in the evening. I had decided since my knee was a little sore driving home form Dodger Stadium that I should take the extra sleep and rest time Sunday morning and go out at night after finishing church tasks.
Out I went ... I felt pretty good, in fact the best I have felt on a Sunday run in weeks or may be months. I looked down at my Garmin and saw I was indeed doing well ... almost LT time ... and thought I better ease the throttle back if this is supposed to be a walk/jog.
I headed down towards Clover Park and did a lap as well hitting the neighboring streets around Santa Monica Airport and the Pico Neighborhood. I was able to focus on the scenery and seeing which business was gone this week, kind of the sad economic reality game. Physically I felt comfortable and relaxed, which was a nice feeling indeed.
My calves did get a little sore and my knee was a bit more tender than at the start; but, overall it was a decent run.
I got my work in and may be more importantly at this point got a good mental feeling.
34:36 of running ... a bit over
2.92 miles
11:51 pace ... there we go
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Wait, we ran what?
Saturday was another in the now dwindling number of LA Roadrunner training days as the Los Angeles Marathon draws ever closer.
This time it was a return to Dodger Stadium for hill training. I got to go in a new entrance gate, the Downtown Gate! I arrived early to stretch and just enjoy being at the stadium and not paying $15 to park. (This led to me getting an official Dodger Stadium pinecone!). Again they opened the left field pavilion so Roadrunners could use the restrooms ... it was so like a ghost town.
Eventually more people came and I started to see people from Group 7. As we waited we heard a big THUD. Either someone drove into a pole or another vehicle ... oops.
Anyways, we got going and got a nice boost as they did the Roadrunners' chant again ... loud and proud. People seemed pretty into it.
The group was down from last week. I am not sure if it was the potential rain or the aftermath of the 20-Miler or just this was a short run ... Our senior pace leader said they would regret their decision.
We lined up and I had a new partner, quite a nice guy. We chatted off and on all run.
Being Group 7 we do things a bit differently ... this time when we lined up for departure we took right off through the managing woman saying, "Wait, which group is this ... stop! stop! Where are you going?" Ah yes, Group 7 blowing the light! This led to a traffic jam soon after at a chokepoint to exit the stadium as we met up with Group 6 and also a walking or run/walk group.
It also seemed like we saw a LOT of Rod Dixon on his bike throughout the run. I quipped he may remember the last excursion where he rescued us from being lost.
This time we did not do the two laps around the stadium; instead, we made two circuits of the NPN 5K Course. The exit road remains a concern with a lot of cracks and street damage. We then made a tour up some hills and onto a trail. Here, the city did not have gates opened; so, we had to go around them. Hopefully, they are open for the 5K or those runners are in for the unpleasant surprise of a steeplechase or hurdle!
My knee was average; my calves were a little tender for about a mile. Still, I kept going with the group. It was fairly easy and I was working on my uphill and downhill form. The weather being overcast helped, though as usual I was sweating.
On the ascent up the final hill of Circuit I, we saw snake in the middle of the road. Oops. Is that a good sign? It was also the day to begin buying single-game Los Angeles Dodgers tickets; so, lots of people were around and there were cars ... something different from the first visit. It still seems od being at the stadium and not seeing a game.
We stopped for water and being in the back again faced the Group 7 challenge of sprinting to catch up as the front of the line leaves so quickly. The group was on its way for Circuit II and it went fairly smoothly.
We made it back and did stretching. For the first time in my life, I was on my back on the Dodger Stadium parking lot! Interesting.
Our senior pace leader then gave us a long, detailed briefing on hints and strategies for the upcoming marathon. (So detailed that many groups came after us and were done with the bananas and Gatorade before we broke up). He is a big help preparing for everything. Sometimes it seems a bit daunting; but, he also reassures.
We then hit the food and drink table, this time with the addition of soy milk, which I tried for the first time.
It was time to go home as the clouds were darkening fast ... drops were coming. I headed home surface as my knee was a bit sore and the rain was coming quite hard. We had been lucky in the timing, definitely.
So, another training run done.
Before I left I checked my Garmin. They said our pace would likely be slow due to the hills; but, it was not. The big thing was I was a bit horrified at the distances it contains a certain number series ... what the ...
Time: 1:09.32
Pace: 10:27
Distance: 6.66 Miles ...
This time it was a return to Dodger Stadium for hill training. I got to go in a new entrance gate, the Downtown Gate! I arrived early to stretch and just enjoy being at the stadium and not paying $15 to park. (This led to me getting an official Dodger Stadium pinecone!). Again they opened the left field pavilion so Roadrunners could use the restrooms ... it was so like a ghost town.
Eventually more people came and I started to see people from Group 7. As we waited we heard a big THUD. Either someone drove into a pole or another vehicle ... oops.
Anyways, we got going and got a nice boost as they did the Roadrunners' chant again ... loud and proud. People seemed pretty into it.
The group was down from last week. I am not sure if it was the potential rain or the aftermath of the 20-Miler or just this was a short run ... Our senior pace leader said they would regret their decision.
We lined up and I had a new partner, quite a nice guy. We chatted off and on all run.
Being Group 7 we do things a bit differently ... this time when we lined up for departure we took right off through the managing woman saying, "Wait, which group is this ... stop! stop! Where are you going?" Ah yes, Group 7 blowing the light! This led to a traffic jam soon after at a chokepoint to exit the stadium as we met up with Group 6 and also a walking or run/walk group.
It also seemed like we saw a LOT of Rod Dixon on his bike throughout the run. I quipped he may remember the last excursion where he rescued us from being lost.
This time we did not do the two laps around the stadium; instead, we made two circuits of the NPN 5K Course. The exit road remains a concern with a lot of cracks and street damage. We then made a tour up some hills and onto a trail. Here, the city did not have gates opened; so, we had to go around them. Hopefully, they are open for the 5K or those runners are in for the unpleasant surprise of a steeplechase or hurdle!
My knee was average; my calves were a little tender for about a mile. Still, I kept going with the group. It was fairly easy and I was working on my uphill and downhill form. The weather being overcast helped, though as usual I was sweating.
On the ascent up the final hill of Circuit I, we saw snake in the middle of the road. Oops. Is that a good sign? It was also the day to begin buying single-game Los Angeles Dodgers tickets; so, lots of people were around and there were cars ... something different from the first visit. It still seems od being at the stadium and not seeing a game.
We stopped for water and being in the back again faced the Group 7 challenge of sprinting to catch up as the front of the line leaves so quickly. The group was on its way for Circuit II and it went fairly smoothly.
We made it back and did stretching. For the first time in my life, I was on my back on the Dodger Stadium parking lot! Interesting.
Our senior pace leader then gave us a long, detailed briefing on hints and strategies for the upcoming marathon. (So detailed that many groups came after us and were done with the bananas and Gatorade before we broke up). He is a big help preparing for everything. Sometimes it seems a bit daunting; but, he also reassures.
We then hit the food and drink table, this time with the addition of soy milk, which I tried for the first time.
It was time to go home as the clouds were darkening fast ... drops were coming. I headed home surface as my knee was a bit sore and the rain was coming quite hard. We had been lucky in the timing, definitely.
So, another training run done.
Before I left I checked my Garmin. They said our pace would likely be slow due to the hills; but, it was not. The big thing was I was a bit horrified at the distances it contains a certain number series ... what the ...
Time: 1:09.32
Pace: 10:27
Distance: 6.66 Miles ...
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Photo: GROUP 7 does Dodger Stadium!
Well, thanks to Mitch, here are the members of LA Roadrunners Run Group 7, who made it for the surprise ... getting on the Dodger Stadium outfield for stretching and fun! I'm in the middle back .... white guy with a black cap next to the tall guy (Danny) in black jacket. We'll be back ...
Week 21: From the Sea to the Stadium ... SURPRISE!
This was a new part of the LA Roadrunners' training, a visit to Dodger Stadium for hill training. I guess it helps when the same people own the Los Angeles Marathon and Dodger Stadium.
I left early and arrived quite early at Dodger Stadium, the first time I have ever been there before the sunrise! It was also my first time going there when there was not a game to see! Still, it was kind of exciting. At the same time, being me, instead of the Stadium to the Sea course plan; I was doing Sea to the Stadium ...
I found where the earlycomers were parked. Soon, people were asking about restrooms ... so, got to visit the Left Field Pavilion. It was kind of weird being so quiet, no one at the turnstiles checking tickets, no vendors, ... kind of like a ghost town.
More people came and eventually we filled up and got semi-organized. I found some others in my group and we found some pace leaders.
Eventually, people started getting sorted and even setting out. Our senior pace leader was addressing us when I heard the now familiar, though missing for a while, Roadrunner chant ... "Mile One is just for fun," etc. echoing in Chavez Ravine. Group 7 lined up and set out and then a few yards later promptly stopped as we had a new start line. (Try explaining this to a Garmin ...)
Then we were off. I was in the back and without my normal partner. We did two laps of the ring road of the Dodger Stadium parking lot, which is more of an incline than it seems when just driving!
Then they had us go out on the planned 5k race course. It was also good as we set out on how the marathon itself will start; so, we have seen the start and the end!
The 5k part was hilly at times. The road is in horrible condition in some parts; I hope runners are not hurt in some of the potholes and faults. There was also storm debris.
It got more interesting as we were going along as the paceleaders were unsure which way to go several times and eventually we became the lost group. (The confusion has happened a few times before; but, this was a new level). Eventually, Rod Dixon, our heroic Kiwi leader, came to our aid on his bicycle and basically escorted the wayward children all the way back!
I did get to go back to the sprinter days on the hillclimb back as the paceleaders called for form. This is one part I do have an advantage. My form is basically better than most because of the sprinting times. No chicken arms or such for me!
Despite the scenic excursion and extra training, we made it back. We went to the congested bananas and Gatorade table, where we also got some samples of new energy and recovery products.
I was feeling so-so. My knee had gotten sore. My arch was also a bit troublesome. The run itself was alright; but, I did not feel any sense of elation or panic; it was just "Well, it's done."
Then we got the surprise ... they took us to the centerfield area and let us go ON the Dodger Stadium outfield to stretch ... and then play around! It was awesome (well for Dodger fans). One Group 7er offered to put on a Reds' hat; but, was swiftly persuaded that that was a non-starter.
It was so much fun being on the grass. Lots of cellphone pictures. Lots of people doing the run into the foam protection on the wall. Some bellyflops. It was just awesome. It was fun pretending to be Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, and Manny Ramirez (no, I am not using female fertility drugs).
I did get ice on my knee; but, it stayed sore. I opted to avoid the 10 and just go surface ... so, saw all the variety that defines L.A. as I went down Sunset to Alvarado to Olympic and into the wilds of Santa Monica.
Quite a day!
1:09.25 of running
6.43 miles
10:40 pace
I left early and arrived quite early at Dodger Stadium, the first time I have ever been there before the sunrise! It was also my first time going there when there was not a game to see! Still, it was kind of exciting. At the same time, being me, instead of the Stadium to the Sea course plan; I was doing Sea to the Stadium ...
I found where the earlycomers were parked. Soon, people were asking about restrooms ... so, got to visit the Left Field Pavilion. It was kind of weird being so quiet, no one at the turnstiles checking tickets, no vendors, ... kind of like a ghost town.
More people came and eventually we filled up and got semi-organized. I found some others in my group and we found some pace leaders.
Eventually, people started getting sorted and even setting out. Our senior pace leader was addressing us when I heard the now familiar, though missing for a while, Roadrunner chant ... "Mile One is just for fun," etc. echoing in Chavez Ravine. Group 7 lined up and set out and then a few yards later promptly stopped as we had a new start line. (Try explaining this to a Garmin ...)
Then we were off. I was in the back and without my normal partner. We did two laps of the ring road of the Dodger Stadium parking lot, which is more of an incline than it seems when just driving!
Then they had us go out on the planned 5k race course. It was also good as we set out on how the marathon itself will start; so, we have seen the start and the end!
The 5k part was hilly at times. The road is in horrible condition in some parts; I hope runners are not hurt in some of the potholes and faults. There was also storm debris.
It got more interesting as we were going along as the paceleaders were unsure which way to go several times and eventually we became the lost group. (The confusion has happened a few times before; but, this was a new level). Eventually, Rod Dixon, our heroic Kiwi leader, came to our aid on his bicycle and basically escorted the wayward children all the way back!
I did get to go back to the sprinter days on the hillclimb back as the paceleaders called for form. This is one part I do have an advantage. My form is basically better than most because of the sprinting times. No chicken arms or such for me!
Despite the scenic excursion and extra training, we made it back. We went to the congested bananas and Gatorade table, where we also got some samples of new energy and recovery products.
I was feeling so-so. My knee had gotten sore. My arch was also a bit troublesome. The run itself was alright; but, I did not feel any sense of elation or panic; it was just "Well, it's done."
Then we got the surprise ... they took us to the centerfield area and let us go ON the Dodger Stadium outfield to stretch ... and then play around! It was awesome (well for Dodger fans). One Group 7er offered to put on a Reds' hat; but, was swiftly persuaded that that was a non-starter.
It was so much fun being on the grass. Lots of cellphone pictures. Lots of people doing the run into the foam protection on the wall. Some bellyflops. It was just awesome. It was fun pretending to be Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, and Manny Ramirez (no, I am not using female fertility drugs).
I did get ice on my knee; but, it stayed sore. I opted to avoid the 10 and just go surface ... so, saw all the variety that defines L.A. as I went down Sunset to Alvarado to Olympic and into the wilds of Santa Monica.
Quite a day!
1:09.25 of running
6.43 miles
10:40 pace
Friday, January 22, 2010
Santa Monica ...!!!!!
With all the rain ... and now thunder, lightning, hail (!!!!), and whatever else the past few days, I think I need something else non-weather-related for the blog ...
So, I checked my snail mail yesterday and the City of Santa Monica had sent "Seascape" newsletter with a front page article on ... The Los Angeles Marathon! They even have a webpage http://www.smgov.net/lamarathon/ The city is also seeking volunteers for the ever popular and vital water stations (I may have to pressgang some people!). We enter Santa Monica at Mile 23 and finish at Mile 26.2 .... 3.2 miles. !VAMANOS!
This morning, I read the free Santa Monica Daily Press http://www.smdp.com/ and they had an article mentioning that the owner of the Los Angeles Marathon and my beloved, if troubled, Los Angeles Dodgers, Frank McCourt, said that the marathon will continue coming to Santa Monica on the Stadium (Dodger Stadium) to the sea (The Pacific Ocean!) course. Many Roadrunners, including myself, were worried about the marathon may be in trouble since the McCourts are divorcing. So, that was encouraging!
So, I checked my snail mail yesterday and the City of Santa Monica had sent "Seascape" newsletter with a front page article on ... The Los Angeles Marathon! They even have a webpage http://www.smgov.net/lamarathon/ The city is also seeking volunteers for the ever popular and vital water stations (I may have to pressgang some people!). We enter Santa Monica at Mile 23 and finish at Mile 26.2 .... 3.2 miles. !VAMANOS!
This morning, I read the free Santa Monica Daily Press http://www.smdp.com/ and they had an article mentioning that the owner of the Los Angeles Marathon and my beloved, if troubled, Los Angeles Dodgers, Frank McCourt, said that the marathon will continue coming to Santa Monica on the Stadium (Dodger Stadium) to the sea (The Pacific Ocean!) course. Many Roadrunners, including myself, were worried about the marathon may be in trouble since the McCourts are divorcing. So, that was encouraging!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly
Today, or may be more accurately, this morning was another training session for the Los Angeles Marathon, under the LA Roadrunners schedule.
It was also a speedwork session; so, I set off for Santa Monica Airport for my improvised "track," which is really a lightly used street with some turns. Today was six runs of 500 meters ...a bit over 1/4 of a mile each.
So, I set off on # 1 and did alright. # 2 was faster. #3 I felt some soreness in my knee and slowed. #4 was slower still ... #5 ... even slower and knee much more of a bother. At this point I was thinking may be I should not be doing this; but, I also thought about what it means if I start slacking off on practices. So, ... off I went on the final one. It was slower than runs #1-3; but, it beat #4-5 significantly.
As a side note, it is interesting for me to see some of the business jets nearby; also, some Lamborghinis were outside in the open which surprised me.
The Ugly was my knee acting up.
The Bad was how I perceived my times.
The Good was that I still completed the schedule regardless.
Better was when I got home, I was checking some of the group emails and realized my worst run had actually been faster than suggested! Despite it all I had done relatively well I guess; but, the knee hopefully will get better. Now I have to make consistent runs (pace within five seconds of each).
Run Information
#1 2:24 for .28 miles for 8.24 pace
#2 2.04 for .28 for 8.11
#3 2.31 for .28 for 8.48
#4 2:36 for .28 for 9.21
#5 2:36 for .28 for 9.24
#6 2:33 for .28 for 8.58
On the way to work, my knee was sore. Still, I saw Temple Street and the Cathedral of Our Lady Queen of the Angels, and Dodger Stadium and felt the need to start seeing the positives instead of all the bad parts of the training. I want to be seeing those places March 21.
It was also a speedwork session; so, I set off for Santa Monica Airport for my improvised "track," which is really a lightly used street with some turns. Today was six runs of 500 meters ...a bit over 1/4 of a mile each.
So, I set off on # 1 and did alright. # 2 was faster. #3 I felt some soreness in my knee and slowed. #4 was slower still ... #5 ... even slower and knee much more of a bother. At this point I was thinking may be I should not be doing this; but, I also thought about what it means if I start slacking off on practices. So, ... off I went on the final one. It was slower than runs #1-3; but, it beat #4-5 significantly.
As a side note, it is interesting for me to see some of the business jets nearby; also, some Lamborghinis were outside in the open which surprised me.
The Ugly was my knee acting up.
The Bad was how I perceived my times.
The Good was that I still completed the schedule regardless.
Better was when I got home, I was checking some of the group emails and realized my worst run had actually been faster than suggested! Despite it all I had done relatively well I guess; but, the knee hopefully will get better. Now I have to make consistent runs (pace within five seconds of each).
Run Information
#1 2:24 for .28 miles for 8.24 pace
#2 2.04 for .28 for 8.11
#3 2.31 for .28 for 8.48
#4 2:36 for .28 for 9.21
#5 2:36 for .28 for 9.24
#6 2:33 for .28 for 8.58
On the way to work, my knee was sore. Still, I saw Temple Street and the Cathedral of Our Lady Queen of the Angels, and Dodger Stadium and felt the need to start seeing the positives instead of all the bad parts of the training. I want to be seeing those places March 21.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Gu for You? Gu for me!
This morning was the longest training run for the week, excluding Saturday obviously.
I was up dark and early and headed out, with a new twist. I tried a GU Energy Gel before starting. It was "Espresso Love" flavor. It tasted alright, a bit like honey to me. I am not exactly a frequent visitor to Starbucks and know next to nothing about espresso; but, I thought I would give it a try, especially as the wrapper said it had caffeine. The Roadrunners pace leaders and visiting nutritionist had mentioned the GU as well as caffeine in their talks and advice sessions. They also said it could sometimes upset stomachs; so, I thought I would try it on a relatively short jaunt.
I felt pretty comfortable trotting around the Pico Neighborhood. It is amazing how open it feels without the traffic.
I also did not have any trouble with the GU Energy Gel at all. I am not sure if it had much of an effect energy-wise, though, for a relatively short run. It does seem like it would be a bit sticky trying to keep using them throughout a real long run or the Los Angeles Marathon; but, I will continue experimenting and trying them. I did like my trial of the GU Chomps, which kind of reminded me of a runner's form of Gummibears! I also plan to test the Bloks.
I was also pretty happy that my knee seems to be slowly improving. There are still times of pain; but, it is less often and less severe.
Anyways, I ran 3.78 miles in 46:10, which is not too bad. I added some hillwork as well, which I am being reminded of as I see Temple in downtown Los Angeles as well as thinking about prior trips to Dodger Stadium.
It was also a bit of a reflective run since it is Remembrance Day and Veterans' Day ... Lest We Forget.
I was up dark and early and headed out, with a new twist. I tried a GU Energy Gel before starting. It was "Espresso Love" flavor. It tasted alright, a bit like honey to me. I am not exactly a frequent visitor to Starbucks and know next to nothing about espresso; but, I thought I would give it a try, especially as the wrapper said it had caffeine. The Roadrunners pace leaders and visiting nutritionist had mentioned the GU as well as caffeine in their talks and advice sessions. They also said it could sometimes upset stomachs; so, I thought I would try it on a relatively short jaunt.
I felt pretty comfortable trotting around the Pico Neighborhood. It is amazing how open it feels without the traffic.
I also did not have any trouble with the GU Energy Gel at all. I am not sure if it had much of an effect energy-wise, though, for a relatively short run. It does seem like it would be a bit sticky trying to keep using them throughout a real long run or the Los Angeles Marathon; but, I will continue experimenting and trying them. I did like my trial of the GU Chomps, which kind of reminded me of a runner's form of Gummibears! I also plan to test the Bloks.
I was also pretty happy that my knee seems to be slowly improving. There are still times of pain; but, it is less often and less severe.
Anyways, I ran 3.78 miles in 46:10, which is not too bad. I added some hillwork as well, which I am being reminded of as I see Temple in downtown Los Angeles as well as thinking about prior trips to Dodger Stadium.
It was also a bit of a reflective run since it is Remembrance Day and Veterans' Day ... Lest We Forget.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Video Time
Inspired by a beautiful pre-dawn So Cal with a star-filled sky, I thought may be a link would work well.
Not a bad video ...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FYrB1tlhug
Plus, starting at my beloved Dodger Stadium and finishing in good old Santa Monica ... not bad for a first time marathon!
Not a bad video ...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FYrB1tlhug
Plus, starting at my beloved Dodger Stadium and finishing in good old Santa Monica ... not bad for a first time marathon!
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