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
Showing posts with label Garmin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Garmin. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Woeful Wednesday
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
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
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Running Blind
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
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
Monday, August 9, 2010
Sunday Run
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.
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.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
5K Time
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
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
Friday, August 6, 2010
Thursday Trial
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
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
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Wednesday Wobbles
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
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
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Paradox of Running
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
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
Sunday, April 18, 2010
My Marathon: Part X
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.
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.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Final Countdown
This morning was my last pre-marathon run ...
I followed the LA Roadrunners schedule and was assigned ... 10 minutes. A 10 minute misconduct?
Anyways, I set out and did pretty well. My knee is sore though.
The paceleaders have said we may be a little tight and sore since we have tapered back so much on running.
This morning ....
13:36 of running
1.31 whopping miles
10:24 pace ... BINGO
I checked my Garmin's totals since I got it ...
Since, October 25, I have run (minus one run where its battery conked out)
463.4 miles
92:05.53 of running
64,020 calories
So, with the extra weeks ...
Not bad, eh?
Diosmediante, I am ready. I can do this thing.
Bring on the Los Angeles Marathon.
CREDO.
I followed the LA Roadrunners schedule and was assigned ... 10 minutes. A 10 minute misconduct?
Anyways, I set out and did pretty well. My knee is sore though.
The paceleaders have said we may be a little tight and sore since we have tapered back so much on running.
This morning ....
13:36 of running
1.31 whopping miles
10:24 pace ... BINGO
I checked my Garmin's totals since I got it ...
Since, October 25, I have run (minus one run where its battery conked out)
463.4 miles
92:05.53 of running
64,020 calories
So, with the extra weeks ...
Not bad, eh?
Diosmediante, I am ready. I can do this thing.
Bring on the Los Angeles Marathon.
CREDO.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Where Did That Come From?
It was time for another training day for the LA Roadrunners program. The Los Angeles Marathon is getting closer and closer; so, these are big.
Today was a switch ... an hour at aerobic pace!
I opted to go on Monday for a few reasons. One was traditional ... most of the weeks it has been Monday. One was practical due to some work things. Another was I felt pretty good after Sunday's run and wanted some more positive feelings after Saturday's ending struggles.
After consuming a tostada, I set out on M1 dark and early. Quite early on I got a feeling of "Here we go again" as a coughing bout set in and I stopped to try and get sorted and regroup.
After that not so welcome break, the run turned around quickly. The pace quickened. I felt strong. My body felt good, even my knee. There was only a very slight feeling in my thighs of all places (that was new).
I lopped around into Los Angeles and then back towards Santa Monica Airport quite comfortably.
After the last few weeks' challenges, it felt quite good and also quite a relief. For the first time in weeks, I had a solid, solid solo training run. I am not sure how it came about as basically everything said it should not happen: Saturday's struggles, recent form, effects of the 20-miler, etc. Still, it was there! The Garmin 305 electronic conscience said so!
This was big just in restoring some confidence and right when I need it.
1:00.03 of running
5.05 miles
11:56 pace (yeah, I beat the target!)
Today was a switch ... an hour at aerobic pace!
I opted to go on Monday for a few reasons. One was traditional ... most of the weeks it has been Monday. One was practical due to some work things. Another was I felt pretty good after Sunday's run and wanted some more positive feelings after Saturday's ending struggles.
After consuming a tostada, I set out on M1 dark and early. Quite early on I got a feeling of "Here we go again" as a coughing bout set in and I stopped to try and get sorted and regroup.
After that not so welcome break, the run turned around quickly. The pace quickened. I felt strong. My body felt good, even my knee. There was only a very slight feeling in my thighs of all places (that was new).
I lopped around into Los Angeles and then back towards Santa Monica Airport quite comfortably.
After the last few weeks' challenges, it felt quite good and also quite a relief. For the first time in weeks, I had a solid, solid solo training run. I am not sure how it came about as basically everything said it should not happen: Saturday's struggles, recent form, effects of the 20-miler, etc. Still, it was there! The Garmin 305 electronic conscience said so!
This was big just in restoring some confidence and right when I need it.
1:00.03 of running
5.05 miles
11:56 pace (yeah, I beat the target!)
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
In the Pre-Dawn, It's Mr. Coughy
Since I took Monday as my recovery day, I was scheduled to go for a trot Tuesday on the LA Roadrunners' schedule. It did take some coaxing/begging/pleading to get my body to shed the blanket; but, off I eventually went.
A couple of minutes into the run I started coughing heavily. Being a semi-diligent Roadrunner, I then did what Roadrunners do ... a flow chart ... just in my head. Am I Coughing? YES. Is it heavy? YES. Are you coughing up blood? NO. Are you coughing up phlegm? YES. Follow arrow. Continue Run.
So, I continued to run; but, I decided today, or this morning, was not going to be a fast one. It was another dreaded survival run.
I eventually found a pace that felt comfortable given the coughing and pre-existing physical issues. My knee was actually a bit better and my quads and calves felt fine at least.
I just tried to do the best I could in the circumstances. I also tried to clear my mind. I started paying more attention to the scenery on M1 ... Hey, there's a new pothole! There's another! And another! (Well, the streets have taken a beating lately). Still, I did feel more relaxed not just trying to keep a pace to make the Garmin happy.
I lost quite a bit of time while doing slow small circles waiting for lights to change rather than become a hood ornament. It was amazing how the pace would shoot way up just on one light!
Finally, I made it home and went in to stretch, clean up, eat and go to work.
Physically, it was not a good run; but, may be mentally it was as I kept going even after having multiple reasons to call it a day. Also, it was a bit more fun not having to focus all on pace. I am hoping doing the intervals will get me going again.
1:00.37
4.68 miles
12:57 pace (well, a minute faster than Sunday and that is allowing for a lot of lights)
A couple of minutes into the run I started coughing heavily. Being a semi-diligent Roadrunner, I then did what Roadrunners do ... a flow chart ... just in my head. Am I Coughing? YES. Is it heavy? YES. Are you coughing up blood? NO. Are you coughing up phlegm? YES. Follow arrow. Continue Run.
So, I continued to run; but, I decided today, or this morning, was not going to be a fast one. It was another dreaded survival run.
I eventually found a pace that felt comfortable given the coughing and pre-existing physical issues. My knee was actually a bit better and my quads and calves felt fine at least.
I just tried to do the best I could in the circumstances. I also tried to clear my mind. I started paying more attention to the scenery on M1 ... Hey, there's a new pothole! There's another! And another! (Well, the streets have taken a beating lately). Still, I did feel more relaxed not just trying to keep a pace to make the Garmin happy.
I lost quite a bit of time while doing slow small circles waiting for lights to change rather than become a hood ornament. It was amazing how the pace would shoot way up just on one light!
Finally, I made it home and went in to stretch, clean up, eat and go to work.
Physically, it was not a good run; but, may be mentally it was as I kept going even after having multiple reasons to call it a day. Also, it was a bit more fun not having to focus all on pace. I am hoping doing the intervals will get me going again.
1:00.37
4.68 miles
12:57 pace (well, a minute faster than Sunday and that is allowing for a lot of lights)
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Week 14: Mananitas in the Rain
Normally, for a Catholic lad such as myself, December 12 is the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe and in my current parish it is a BIG deal. It is close to a 24-hour celebration capping a nine-day Novena and party. The 12th means Mananitas at 4 a.m. and Mass and food ... well, it has since I got to Santa Monica in 1999. But, like the rest of 2009, this day was going to be different ... I had another training run with the LA Roadrunners.
The other variable was the weather ... rain and lots of it expected. There were Group 7 emails of advice and also worried runners.
I still got up early. This time though I was eating beforehand and wearing running gear and my music was not exactly Mananita Tepeyac or Mananita Ranchera. I was actually excited about the rain. I always enjoyed playing sports in the rain and in track was notorious for liking it either cold and wet or very hot. So, I decided for my music to open my eyes to to go with the old school stuff ... Danger Zone, Hell's Bells, Thunderstruck, Back in Black, Black Celebration ....etc. all before one last song, my marathon running theme. Really, I was amped to go then! I was channeling Servite track days definitely.
It got more fun as I loaded the car and ensured I had the usual supplies: Garmin 305, heart rate belt, energy food, keys, hat, etc. I also added change of clothes and garbage bag outfit as suggested. As I began the drive, the rain started to come and hard.
At the Strand Group 7's senior pace leader, Alan, seemed almost giddy. Indeed quite a few of us were excited. I also tried a new strategy: I consumed a Clif Shot chocolate energy gel while on the Strand before the group set off. It reminded me of pudding (yum!) and I think it helped to have some energy boost in the system (the package recommended using 15 minutes prior to starting). I think it may be mental; but, I still think the gels may be a bit messy and cumbersome for the actual run. This pre-run idea may be the one for me at least. I did not have any stomach issues either. The pace leaders have said some runners have issues with digesting gels; I have been lucky I guess and no problems!
Group 7 was soon on its way. Due to the Santa Monica-Venice Christmas run, we headed immediately south through Venice, slightly altering the route. I had a new partner as my normal colleague-in-crime had not arrived; we began talking about the week's running, the weather, snow in Texas, ... It began to rain lightly in Venice but nothing too dire. I did feel a little soreness in my knee.
Soon we were into Marina del Rey with the nice condos and numerous yachts. I recognized the taller buildings of Lincoln Boulevard. It also began to be off-on rain; luckily, it was not too slick. The first water station even had Gatorade which was a nice bonus. The group ran past the small beaches, around the Marriott Hotel and the Ritz Carlton, and onwards into the inlet areas, where it began to rain heavily to much excited shouting. The group went past a Coast Guard station as well as the Sheriff's station, where I am sure a lot of "51-50" codes were being issued. Alan, our senior pace leader, was cheerfully urging us on at a water station reminding us of the fun of rain running.
I saw one of the leaders, Captain Jesus, and began to think of prior weeks when he promised menudo was just around the corner (as well as coffee and doughnuts). Only this Saturday I really was missing menudo and champurrado and everything else since I was not at St. Anne's for mananitas.
The new route took us quite south and into the Playa Del Rey area just north of LAX. It was raining again. It was nice to see a few aircraft on short finals for LAX as they took the ocean approach route, including a Horizon Air Q400, a Southwest Airlines 737, and an All Nippon Airways 777.
Eventually, we reached a turnaround. Shortly after as I was putting my windbreaker on I noticed my Garmin unit had stopped; I think I must have tapped the timer while moving the left sleeve of my windbreaker. Yikes!
By now, I was pretty damp. Shoes. Socks. Shorts. Shirt. Windbreaker. Hat. (Still no garbage bag). Still it was FUN! I also felt like I had more energy than normal. I think the gel helped as I only ate three GU chomps, despite it being my longest ever run.
Lucky 7/Magnificent 7 was soon headed back north retracing the steps as the weather improved. I was able to permanently keep the windbreaker around my waist and not even resort to the garbage bag.
Once the group was back in south Venice my knee started acting up. I began to worry I would not make it and I guess I would have had good reason to fall off the group. My initial partner had gone in search of a restroom and not returned to the group for example. The group was also more ragged than normal and my normal partner and I linked up only for him to be seen falling back on the Strand.
Still, I kept going. I was wet. I was a bit sore. I was a bit tired. But, I kept going. This was definitely like the Servite days. Keeping with the song theme, I was singing "Take me home United Road" in my head thinking of rain soccer and weather well-suited for Manchester.
Soon enough we were on the Strand again and passed the start heading north to Santa Monica border. One of the pace leaders thought it was a turnaround and began to turn only to be told to keep going! So, we had an amusing sight of 50 adults doing a giant circle in the middle of the Strand for no apparent reason to observers. Then we reached the actual turnaround and headed the short distance back to the start. I kept with the group.
I was quietly happy. I had done 15 bloody miles in the rain on a dodgy knee. Our senior pace leader was also pretty enthusiastic. We did a quick stretch. I just felt like I had something to be proud of in this one and it had been a good gut check to see if I can do this whole thing.
Once we were back at the school, I quickly swapped to a Servite shirt (Servite was playing for the PAC-5 Championship that night). Once a Friar Always A Friar. I headed off to get Gatorade and began to eat a banana as usual when I heard someone say, "Hey, did you go to Servite?" Realizing that was a question for me, I looked over and was soon in conversation with another Roadrunner and a fellow Friar! he was 10 years younger and in Group 5; he also knew of my brother and we were soon in Friar talk. Unreal. CREDO! It was a nice end for the running day (prior to the other fun on the docket and more rain).
So, it was a good day. Tough but good. I was sore; but, still functioning. It was a Servite Day. (And to boost it, SERVITE WON!)
Run according to my Garmin: 11:54 pace for 2:42.40 and 13.66 miles. So, I did not miss too much. Another runner posted 3:05.19, 15.33 miles and 12:05 pace (he said he had fallen a bit behind; so, times are a bit slower than the group).
The other variable was the weather ... rain and lots of it expected. There were Group 7 emails of advice and also worried runners.
I still got up early. This time though I was eating beforehand and wearing running gear and my music was not exactly Mananita Tepeyac or Mananita Ranchera. I was actually excited about the rain. I always enjoyed playing sports in the rain and in track was notorious for liking it either cold and wet or very hot. So, I decided for my music to open my eyes to to go with the old school stuff ... Danger Zone, Hell's Bells, Thunderstruck, Back in Black, Black Celebration ....etc. all before one last song, my marathon running theme. Really, I was amped to go then! I was channeling Servite track days definitely.
It got more fun as I loaded the car and ensured I had the usual supplies: Garmin 305, heart rate belt, energy food, keys, hat, etc. I also added change of clothes and garbage bag outfit as suggested. As I began the drive, the rain started to come and hard.
At the Strand Group 7's senior pace leader, Alan, seemed almost giddy. Indeed quite a few of us were excited. I also tried a new strategy: I consumed a Clif Shot chocolate energy gel while on the Strand before the group set off. It reminded me of pudding (yum!) and I think it helped to have some energy boost in the system (the package recommended using 15 minutes prior to starting). I think it may be mental; but, I still think the gels may be a bit messy and cumbersome for the actual run. This pre-run idea may be the one for me at least. I did not have any stomach issues either. The pace leaders have said some runners have issues with digesting gels; I have been lucky I guess and no problems!
Group 7 was soon on its way. Due to the Santa Monica-Venice Christmas run, we headed immediately south through Venice, slightly altering the route. I had a new partner as my normal colleague-in-crime had not arrived; we began talking about the week's running, the weather, snow in Texas, ... It began to rain lightly in Venice but nothing too dire. I did feel a little soreness in my knee.
Soon we were into Marina del Rey with the nice condos and numerous yachts. I recognized the taller buildings of Lincoln Boulevard. It also began to be off-on rain; luckily, it was not too slick. The first water station even had Gatorade which was a nice bonus. The group ran past the small beaches, around the Marriott Hotel and the Ritz Carlton, and onwards into the inlet areas, where it began to rain heavily to much excited shouting. The group went past a Coast Guard station as well as the Sheriff's station, where I am sure a lot of "51-50" codes were being issued. Alan, our senior pace leader, was cheerfully urging us on at a water station reminding us of the fun of rain running.
I saw one of the leaders, Captain Jesus, and began to think of prior weeks when he promised menudo was just around the corner (as well as coffee and doughnuts). Only this Saturday I really was missing menudo and champurrado and everything else since I was not at St. Anne's for mananitas.
The new route took us quite south and into the Playa Del Rey area just north of LAX. It was raining again. It was nice to see a few aircraft on short finals for LAX as they took the ocean approach route, including a Horizon Air Q400, a Southwest Airlines 737, and an All Nippon Airways 777.
Eventually, we reached a turnaround. Shortly after as I was putting my windbreaker on I noticed my Garmin unit had stopped; I think I must have tapped the timer while moving the left sleeve of my windbreaker. Yikes!
By now, I was pretty damp. Shoes. Socks. Shorts. Shirt. Windbreaker. Hat. (Still no garbage bag). Still it was FUN! I also felt like I had more energy than normal. I think the gel helped as I only ate three GU chomps, despite it being my longest ever run.
Lucky 7/Magnificent 7 was soon headed back north retracing the steps as the weather improved. I was able to permanently keep the windbreaker around my waist and not even resort to the garbage bag.
Once the group was back in south Venice my knee started acting up. I began to worry I would not make it and I guess I would have had good reason to fall off the group. My initial partner had gone in search of a restroom and not returned to the group for example. The group was also more ragged than normal and my normal partner and I linked up only for him to be seen falling back on the Strand.
Still, I kept going. I was wet. I was a bit sore. I was a bit tired. But, I kept going. This was definitely like the Servite days. Keeping with the song theme, I was singing "Take me home United Road" in my head thinking of rain soccer and weather well-suited for Manchester.
Soon enough we were on the Strand again and passed the start heading north to Santa Monica border. One of the pace leaders thought it was a turnaround and began to turn only to be told to keep going! So, we had an amusing sight of 50 adults doing a giant circle in the middle of the Strand for no apparent reason to observers. Then we reached the actual turnaround and headed the short distance back to the start. I kept with the group.
I was quietly happy. I had done 15 bloody miles in the rain on a dodgy knee. Our senior pace leader was also pretty enthusiastic. We did a quick stretch. I just felt like I had something to be proud of in this one and it had been a good gut check to see if I can do this whole thing.
Once we were back at the school, I quickly swapped to a Servite shirt (Servite was playing for the PAC-5 Championship that night). Once a Friar Always A Friar. I headed off to get Gatorade and began to eat a banana as usual when I heard someone say, "Hey, did you go to Servite?" Realizing that was a question for me, I looked over and was soon in conversation with another Roadrunner and a fellow Friar! he was 10 years younger and in Group 5; he also knew of my brother and we were soon in Friar talk. Unreal. CREDO! It was a nice end for the running day (prior to the other fun on the docket and more rain).
So, it was a good day. Tough but good. I was sore; but, still functioning. It was a Servite Day. (And to boost it, SERVITE WON!)
Run according to my Garmin: 11:54 pace for 2:42.40 and 13.66 miles. So, I did not miss too much. Another runner posted 3:05.19, 15.33 miles and 12:05 pace (he said he had fallen a bit behind; so, times are a bit slower than the group).
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Is Back to the Future?
In my former running life, I was considered a sprinter/middle-distance/long-distance (in those days long distance meant ... TWO whole miles) runner. I literally ran every non-hurdle running event there was from the 110 to the two miles. So, I became used to sprinting and then longer sprints. I still very much have it inside me; so, I was pretty excited to see the track option appear on the LA Roadrunners schedule. I want to finish the Los Angeles Marathon, definitely; but, a little sprinting fun helps! I was thinking finally I can really use all that track practice in this training. Then I saw the pace ... not sprinting, at least not my sprinting.
Due to schedule and commute, I do not really have access to a track at 4 a.m.; so, I did the next bets thing, a small very quiet road near Santa Monica Airport which is mostly straight but has some turns. So, I headed down under the nice post-rain, star-filled sky.
I set out and kind-of, sort-of turned on the power. It was definitely not like the old days and the long-distance running style where you are not using the balls of your feet slows me down (or seems to at least in my head). I had a windbreaker on as well; this was something I had NEVER done in sprinting. I had brought it as I know sweat plus colder air is not a good mix.
Anyways, Run 1 ... .23 miles in 2.00 minutes at 8:37 pace. A bit longer and rather faster than 300m at 9:30 pace. I decided to keep the distance to see how I would fare and just adjust. They said to go on a minute's rest; so, ...
Run 2: 1.53 minutes for .23 miles at 8:35 pace. Oops. Still, too fast. (It seems crazy to be trying to sue the Garmin to pace yourself on such a short trot).
Run 3: 2.08 minutes for .23 miles at 9:08 pace. Better (?). My knee was showing a little soreness as well.
Run 4: 2.07 minutes for .23 miles for 9:14 pace.
Run 5: 2.06 minutes for .23 miles for 9:13 pace. So, a bit consistent.
Run 6: 2.05 minutes for .24 miles for 8:48 pace. Oops.
Run 7 : 2.10 minutes for .23 miles for 9:26 pace. At this point I was wondering is this good or bad as the paces vary, etc. and also this was slow. Plus, I wanted a little fun ...
Run 8: 1.47 minutes for .24 miles for 7:37 pace. That was a bit of fun, though still it felt far short of maximum power. Heck, in high school days, that would have been disastrous .... that was FAR slower than what I would do miles and two miles in.
Anyways, I made it through the runs feeling a bit better than on Monday, though still with a dinged up knee.
Due to schedule and commute, I do not really have access to a track at 4 a.m.; so, I did the next bets thing, a small very quiet road near Santa Monica Airport which is mostly straight but has some turns. So, I headed down under the nice post-rain, star-filled sky.
I set out and kind-of, sort-of turned on the power. It was definitely not like the old days and the long-distance running style where you are not using the balls of your feet slows me down (or seems to at least in my head). I had a windbreaker on as well; this was something I had NEVER done in sprinting. I had brought it as I know sweat plus colder air is not a good mix.
Anyways, Run 1 ... .23 miles in 2.00 minutes at 8:37 pace. A bit longer and rather faster than 300m at 9:30 pace. I decided to keep the distance to see how I would fare and just adjust. They said to go on a minute's rest; so, ...
Run 2: 1.53 minutes for .23 miles at 8:35 pace. Oops. Still, too fast. (It seems crazy to be trying to sue the Garmin to pace yourself on such a short trot).
Run 3: 2.08 minutes for .23 miles at 9:08 pace. Better (?). My knee was showing a little soreness as well.
Run 4: 2.07 minutes for .23 miles for 9:14 pace.
Run 5: 2.06 minutes for .23 miles for 9:13 pace. So, a bit consistent.
Run 6: 2.05 minutes for .24 miles for 8:48 pace. Oops.
Run 7 : 2.10 minutes for .23 miles for 9:26 pace. At this point I was wondering is this good or bad as the paces vary, etc. and also this was slow. Plus, I wanted a little fun ...
Run 8: 1.47 minutes for .24 miles for 7:37 pace. That was a bit of fun, though still it felt far short of maximum power. Heck, in high school days, that would have been disastrous .... that was FAR slower than what I would do miles and two miles in.
Anyways, I made it through the runs feeling a bit better than on Monday, though still with a dinged up knee.
Monday, November 23, 2009
A Wobble and It's Not Even Thanksgiving
I have run the last two days for the Roadrunners program, opting to take Tuesday as a day off from running. It has been a bit challenging.
Sunday I got up dark and early as usual and just felt listless. I still set out and six minutes in the electronic conscience that is the Garmin 305, started giving a low battery warning and soon upped and quit. So, I was back to the Stone Age of using a wristwatch. My knee was also acting up a bit and there was still some soreness from the almost 13 miler. I still managed to do the assigned 30 minutes; but, it felt more like a survival run than a thrive run.
Monday was a bit better, though my knee was acting up again. I ran up and down the Pico Neighborhood for 3.26 miles in 40:04, a tad slow at 12:18 pace. Still, I was going and with some better luck at traffic lights, I think I could have had a better time.
So, it has been a tad challenging and frustrating the last two days to not be doing and feeling better; but, a marathon is indeed a marathon and not a sprint. I still hope and plan to finish the Los Angeles Marathon on March 21, just may be hoping for a few less days like these.
Sunday I got up dark and early as usual and just felt listless. I still set out and six minutes in the electronic conscience that is the Garmin 305, started giving a low battery warning and soon upped and quit. So, I was back to the Stone Age of using a wristwatch. My knee was also acting up a bit and there was still some soreness from the almost 13 miler. I still managed to do the assigned 30 minutes; but, it felt more like a survival run than a thrive run.
Monday was a bit better, though my knee was acting up again. I ran up and down the Pico Neighborhood for 3.26 miles in 40:04, a tad slow at 12:18 pace. Still, I was going and with some better luck at traffic lights, I think I could have had a better time.
So, it has been a tad challenging and frustrating the last two days to not be doing and feeling better; but, a marathon is indeed a marathon and not a sprint. I still hope and plan to finish the Los Angeles Marathon on March 21, just may be hoping for a few less days like these.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Week 11: The Almost Run
Saturday was another long group run for the LA Roadrunners training program for the Los Angeles Marathon. The weather, while not as perfect as the week before, was still quite nice with a slight breeze, good temperature, and a good dose of sunshine.
I had gotten a surprisingly good night's sleep and felt ready to go. As I prepared for the day, twirling the ideal, I came upon "California Love" by Dr. Dre and Tupac and with its West Coast, West Side, etc. lyrics, it seemed a good sign.
The groups headed out to the Strand early and without even roll call, Group 7 (Lucky 7/Magnificent 7) was on its way.
I felt a little twinge in my knee but nothing serious and the trot towards the Santa Monica Pier felt comfortable and soon it was the climb up the incline.
It was the usual fun conversation with my running partner as the feet kept moving. Then, police car after police car went speeding by along Ocean Avenue (now known as the finish line!). The group advanced and came to the California Incline where the Santa Monica police actually blocked off traffic. This made the crossing to Adelaide much more interesting as cars were apparently being diverted. The waterstop at the Totem Pole sure helped though.
Again, the group passed the wealthy homes of the area with gorgeous views before turning to San Vicente for the San Vicente Urban Obstacle Course! Luck held again as no one in the group, including myself, fell victim to the signs, grates, holes, roots, and other obstacles. Despite the gradient up San Vicente, I felt good. It is also good to know this is a significant part of the actual 2010 marathon route!
Soon, it was time to turn back at 26th and head back from whence the group came. Again, no problems and I relied on some GU Chomps to see me through. Back down passed the still blocked California Incline and the Pier and onto the Strand, I felt good. The group followed the norm and into some Venice sidestreets and back to the starting point. I do think a pace leader cut the route short a bit though as my electronic conscience Garmin 305 said it was 12.96 miles, so agonizingly close to my goal of doing 13.1 miles and completing an unofficial half-marathon. The pace was good at 11:47 and time of 2:34.29. In fact, the high pace was 9:00! Yeah! Also, the group was definitely speeding up later in the run, rather than slowing. A bit amusing was us going through the finish line for the LA Leggers! They were giving their runners MEDALS! I am not sure if they also did 13.1 or what; but, it was interesting.
The senior pace leader said the group is doing very well and running together. He also warned that some are in way too high of groups and will have problems when the pace is increased. I think I am alright as I pass the self-test questions. I hope I am anyways! He also said to feel free to eat at will over Thanksgiving Day! Ah, guilt-free eating and all it took was running and running and running and running.
For me it was an almost run ... almost 13.1, almost 100% no pain ... I just need March 21 to be not almost.
Afterwards, I did have some "workout soreness" in my calves and quadriceps; but, that is a positive in that it means muscles are building.
I had gotten a surprisingly good night's sleep and felt ready to go. As I prepared for the day, twirling the ideal, I came upon "California Love" by Dr. Dre and Tupac and with its West Coast, West Side, etc. lyrics, it seemed a good sign.
The groups headed out to the Strand early and without even roll call, Group 7 (Lucky 7/Magnificent 7) was on its way.
I felt a little twinge in my knee but nothing serious and the trot towards the Santa Monica Pier felt comfortable and soon it was the climb up the incline.
It was the usual fun conversation with my running partner as the feet kept moving. Then, police car after police car went speeding by along Ocean Avenue (now known as the finish line!). The group advanced and came to the California Incline where the Santa Monica police actually blocked off traffic. This made the crossing to Adelaide much more interesting as cars were apparently being diverted. The waterstop at the Totem Pole sure helped though.
Again, the group passed the wealthy homes of the area with gorgeous views before turning to San Vicente for the San Vicente Urban Obstacle Course! Luck held again as no one in the group, including myself, fell victim to the signs, grates, holes, roots, and other obstacles. Despite the gradient up San Vicente, I felt good. It is also good to know this is a significant part of the actual 2010 marathon route!
Soon, it was time to turn back at 26th and head back from whence the group came. Again, no problems and I relied on some GU Chomps to see me through. Back down passed the still blocked California Incline and the Pier and onto the Strand, I felt good. The group followed the norm and into some Venice sidestreets and back to the starting point. I do think a pace leader cut the route short a bit though as my electronic conscience Garmin 305 said it was 12.96 miles, so agonizingly close to my goal of doing 13.1 miles and completing an unofficial half-marathon. The pace was good at 11:47 and time of 2:34.29. In fact, the high pace was 9:00! Yeah! Also, the group was definitely speeding up later in the run, rather than slowing. A bit amusing was us going through the finish line for the LA Leggers! They were giving their runners MEDALS! I am not sure if they also did 13.1 or what; but, it was interesting.
The senior pace leader said the group is doing very well and running together. He also warned that some are in way too high of groups and will have problems when the pace is increased. I think I am alright as I pass the self-test questions. I hope I am anyways! He also said to feel free to eat at will over Thanksgiving Day! Ah, guilt-free eating and all it took was running and running and running and running.
For me it was an almost run ... almost 13.1, almost 100% no pain ... I just need March 21 to be not almost.
Afterwards, I did have some "workout soreness" in my calves and quadriceps; but, that is a positive in that it means muscles are building.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
A Bit Sluggish
Today was another mid-week training run under the Roadrunners schedule for the Los Angeles Marathon.
It has been really nice in the pre-dawn this week and again this morning it was a star-filled clear sky as I set out for a 45-minute run (added five for missing five yesterday).
Today I did have a little knee pain, especially at the start; but, I came through the run. It did feel a bit sluggish overall. I managed to go to Los Angeles and Santa Monica, under a freeway (the 10), by an airport (Santa Monica), and more.
I managed 3.72 miles in 45:12, a bit slower than the target pace. Today there was a lot of stops at lights and then I forgot to restart the Garmin at one! So, I really ran about 48 minutes. The good points were practicing hillwork and just being out there going about business. It was not the ideal run; but, they can not all be, right?
It has been really nice in the pre-dawn this week and again this morning it was a star-filled clear sky as I set out for a 45-minute run (added five for missing five yesterday).
Today I did have a little knee pain, especially at the start; but, I came through the run. It did feel a bit sluggish overall. I managed to go to Los Angeles and Santa Monica, under a freeway (the 10), by an airport (Santa Monica), and more.
I managed 3.72 miles in 45:12, a bit slower than the target pace. Today there was a lot of stops at lights and then I forgot to restart the Garmin at one! So, I really ran about 48 minutes. The good points were practicing hillwork and just being out there going about business. It was not the ideal run; but, they can not all be, right?
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Week 9: Five Mile Milk Run ... Until the End!
This was the latest cut-back week; so, it was a now modest five miles on the schedule for the Roadrunners Los Angeles Marathon plan. It was a "milk run" run.
It has been a difficult week for many reasons and the energy was just lacking. I think may be the fact that I KNEW I could do five miles and had done it before perhaps lessened the enthusiasm.
At least the session started with the Roadrunner cadence which helped. Motivation. Dedication. Aye.
The morning was semi-overcast to match my energy level. Still, Group 7 (Lucky 7/Magnificent 7) was off and headed north going along the Strand to the water stop (with the weekly promises of menudo and/or coffee and doughnuts from Captain Jesus). Then it was up the Santa Monica Pier and further north to Wilshire. As is the new tradition, I kept my cap backwards from Ocean Avenue to Santa Monica Blvd. and vice versa on the return. My group partner and I had another discussion on the Dodgers and the McCourts debacle.
It seemed like a normal return leg when the group seemed noticeably faster through to the end. It turns out the reason why it seemed noticeably faster was because the group was noticeably faster; the pace leaders changed it to race pace for the last mile! So, it was nice to feel some relative speed. I need my sprinter/semi-sprinter fix!
My Garmin electronic conscience said it was really 5.61 miles (vs. scheduled five) in 1:04:24 for a 11:29 overall pace.
Afterwards, I spoke with the senior pace leader and he said they were pleased as the group responded and no one fell off the faster pace. He also said he felt if the group was going on race pace the entire way on a longer run, they would normally see up to 50% drop out/back rate.
Anyways, it was more Gatorade and bananas and then a presentation nutrition with a list of vitamins I had never heard of and seemed a bit intimidating to me as well as my wallet.
I am glad I ran as I needed it; but, the sense of achievement for setting a new high in distance was gone obviously. This week's run was more just survive than thrive; but, may be that is a good thing every few weeks so the edge is there when needed.
It has been a difficult week for many reasons and the energy was just lacking. I think may be the fact that I KNEW I could do five miles and had done it before perhaps lessened the enthusiasm.
At least the session started with the Roadrunner cadence which helped. Motivation. Dedication. Aye.
The morning was semi-overcast to match my energy level. Still, Group 7 (Lucky 7/Magnificent 7) was off and headed north going along the Strand to the water stop (with the weekly promises of menudo and/or coffee and doughnuts from Captain Jesus). Then it was up the Santa Monica Pier and further north to Wilshire. As is the new tradition, I kept my cap backwards from Ocean Avenue to Santa Monica Blvd. and vice versa on the return. My group partner and I had another discussion on the Dodgers and the McCourts debacle.
It seemed like a normal return leg when the group seemed noticeably faster through to the end. It turns out the reason why it seemed noticeably faster was because the group was noticeably faster; the pace leaders changed it to race pace for the last mile! So, it was nice to feel some relative speed. I need my sprinter/semi-sprinter fix!
My Garmin electronic conscience said it was really 5.61 miles (vs. scheduled five) in 1:04:24 for a 11:29 overall pace.
Afterwards, I spoke with the senior pace leader and he said they were pleased as the group responded and no one fell off the faster pace. He also said he felt if the group was going on race pace the entire way on a longer run, they would normally see up to 50% drop out/back rate.
Anyways, it was more Gatorade and bananas and then a presentation nutrition with a list of vitamins I had never heard of and seemed a bit intimidating to me as well as my wallet.
I am glad I ran as I needed it; but, the sense of achievement for setting a new high in distance was gone obviously. This week's run was more just survive than thrive; but, may be that is a good thing every few weeks so the edge is there when needed.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Monday ... It Comes After Sunday
This is a cut-back week, meaning it is the week before the final training run for Phase 2 under the Roadrunners schedule for the Los Angeles Marathon.
Because of scheduling needs, I decided to run Monday instead of Tuesday. I tried out a new route; so, it made it a bit more interesting.
It seemed a bit "off" with the time change; but, it went well. I was told also to stop the Garmin unit on stops; so, did my best ... though forgot to restart it once!
So, the end ... officially 2.57 miles in 32:17.
Because of scheduling needs, I decided to run Monday instead of Tuesday. I tried out a new route; so, it made it a bit more interesting.
It seemed a bit "off" with the time change; but, it went well. I was told also to stop the Garmin unit on stops; so, did my best ... though forgot to restart it once!
So, the end ... officially 2.57 miles in 32:17.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Week 8: Halloween X-Rated Run!
Saturday marked my eighth Saturday training for the Los Angeles Marathon with the Roadrunners. It also marked Halloween! Even better, it was my X-Rated Run! Before I left home, I was happy to catch U2's "Where the Streets Have No Name" on the radio and the line "I want to run ..." It will not be my "official" theme song for the marathon; but, i do like it and it fits.
It was a rather odd start with many runners and leaders missing. There was no rallying chant which was a bit disappointing.
It was just a beautiful day, unlike the previous week's fog, which would have been more fitting for Halloween. My group headed off to the north. One of the pace leaders was dressed in a 1970s disco-type outfit ... truly scary. Three of my old group's leaders dressed up as well. I was a bit more cautious and dressed as a marathon runner ... no one would believe it though. As the group headed off, I began wondering who in Venice was in costume and who was not. I also saw a friend from church and jokingly invited him to join the fun.
This was the longest run of my life, scheduled for 10 miles. I was a bit nervous; but, I also felt some excitement. It is obviously not 26.2; but, personal records still count in my mind.
My knee overall has been better the last few weeks. It has its odd flareups, especially after prolonged time in a seat; but, it is much better than before and my ankle pain from summer is gone thankfully.
The trip up the Santa Monica Pier and Ocean Avenue really felt comfortable. I was using a new type of energy food for a trial and it seems to work as well. The group headed to the new Totem Pole landmark (where I touched the claws for luck) and then on to Adelaide for the turning point.
This week, my line partner warned he was a bit cautious with his calf; but, he made it and we had a nice chat along the way on baseball, the McCourts, Alberta, etc. He did break off early at eight miles; but, he did well.
Then it was off into Venice's sidestreets, including the non-sprinting Speedway and eventually the turnaround point there at Lighthouse Street for the short return leg home.
My group, officially Lucky 7 or my Magnificent 7, went on a 11:48 pace for 10.24 miles in 2:00:53! (So sayeth my Garmin 305).
I was happy. It felt great to be able to go that far and feel like I could go even further! Later in the day I had a little soreness in my thighs and calves; but, I felt the return of the old track feeling of joy as it meant a good workout. Even better was it was not sharp or even lasting too long. So, that is my X-Rated run ... X being for the BIG TEN miles ...
It was a rather odd start with many runners and leaders missing. There was no rallying chant which was a bit disappointing.
It was just a beautiful day, unlike the previous week's fog, which would have been more fitting for Halloween. My group headed off to the north. One of the pace leaders was dressed in a 1970s disco-type outfit ... truly scary. Three of my old group's leaders dressed up as well. I was a bit more cautious and dressed as a marathon runner ... no one would believe it though. As the group headed off, I began wondering who in Venice was in costume and who was not. I also saw a friend from church and jokingly invited him to join the fun.
This was the longest run of my life, scheduled for 10 miles. I was a bit nervous; but, I also felt some excitement. It is obviously not 26.2; but, personal records still count in my mind.
My knee overall has been better the last few weeks. It has its odd flareups, especially after prolonged time in a seat; but, it is much better than before and my ankle pain from summer is gone thankfully.
The trip up the Santa Monica Pier and Ocean Avenue really felt comfortable. I was using a new type of energy food for a trial and it seems to work as well. The group headed to the new Totem Pole landmark (where I touched the claws for luck) and then on to Adelaide for the turning point.
This week, my line partner warned he was a bit cautious with his calf; but, he made it and we had a nice chat along the way on baseball, the McCourts, Alberta, etc. He did break off early at eight miles; but, he did well.
Then it was off into Venice's sidestreets, including the non-sprinting Speedway and eventually the turnaround point there at Lighthouse Street for the short return leg home.
My group, officially Lucky 7 or my Magnificent 7, went on a 11:48 pace for 10.24 miles in 2:00:53! (So sayeth my Garmin 305).
I was happy. It felt great to be able to go that far and feel like I could go even further! Later in the day I had a little soreness in my thighs and calves; but, I felt the return of the old track feeling of joy as it meant a good workout. Even better was it was not sharp or even lasting too long. So, that is my X-Rated run ... X being for the BIG TEN miles ...
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