Friday, December 31, 2010

2010



With 2010 coming to an end at midnight, tonight, I have closed out my running for the year. My yearly total ended at 1341 miles. I do believe this is the most mileage I have ever posted within a year's time. This was assisted with the races I ran during the year, as well as the training leading up to each race. I took on the Hal Higdon training program while getting prepared for the Columbus Marathon and really liked this plan.

I ran four marathons in 2010, with the last three all taking place within 49 days. I ran the Cowtown Marathon (Ft Worth, TX) in Feb, Columbus Marathon (Columbus, OH) in Oct, MidSouth Marathon (Wynne, AR) in Nov, and finally the St Jude Marathon (Memphis, TN) in Dec. My finishing times were 4:11, 3:53, 3:53, and 4:09 in order. Not only did I gain a Personal Record but, I accomplished my goal of completing those last three marathons in under three months. I also took part in a marathon relay with some fellow SORT members at Little Rock. We took first in our division by over 18-minutes.

My goals for 2011 involve six marathons. These are Little Rock Marathon (Little Rock, AR) in Mar, Andrew Jackson Marathon (Jackson, TN) in Apr, Tupelo Marathon (Tupelo, MS) in Sep, Columbus Marathon (Columbus, OH) in Oct, MidSouth Marathon (Wynne, AR) in Nov, and St Jude Marathon (Memphis, TN) in Dec. Hoping to better my PR in 2011. And continue to raise money for charity as I prepare for each race.

Happy 2011 everyone. :)

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Weather

Talk about one confused Mother Nature. Just two days ago I was scraping ice off my windshield. Today it was in the 60s and tomorrow is supposed to hit the 70s, with high winds and rain. Then drop down to freezing at night. No wonder everyone is getting sick. Still, need to knock out a 9-miler tomorrow so, weather be damned, I need to get it done. Might get Deb to run 3 with me. :) She's a great motivator.

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

9 Weeks

Ok, we're 9-weeks out from Little Rock. We have a number of Muckas signing up for the half marathon. This is awesome. Some have run several half marathons in the past. Others are running their first or second. The group is really starting to take off. I'm really glad it is because I think we needed something like this in this small town.

As for my training, I'm back on schedule. Hit a 4 and 9-miler the last two days. Both runs went well. Cold rain today so I had to get it done on the treadmill. College bowl games kept me entertained on this run. Big 10 is 2-0 so far. Let's go Bucks!!!

Hope everyone has some healthy resolutions for 2011 and does well at sticking with them. 4-miler tomorrow. Let's get it done. :)

Monday, December 27, 2010

Christmas Run

Well, it didn't happen. I took the lazy way out that day and just sat around the house, enjoying family and the fireplace. Then I really enjoyed Deb's Christmas dinner. Very nice!! Needless to say, with all the Christmas goodies I had eaten, then the nice dinner, Sunday's long run was a necessity. So, a 12-miler was in order. Or so I thought. After I ran those 12, I was logging my miles down and looking at my training schedule and that's when it hit me. I'm a week ahead on my training schedule. DOH!! The 17-miler I ran last Sunday was supposed to happen this week. I guess running those three marathons, in consecutive months, kind of threw me off a bit. Oh well, I'll run the same schedule this week so I can be back on track.

Little Rock is less than three months away. Fund raising is currently at $111.20. 22%towards my goal of $500. If you know anyone who is interested in contributing to the fight against heart disease, please pass this link on to them. I could sure use more sponsors. :)

http://www.littlerockmarathon.com/Donate/PersonalPage.cfm?MID=6723&CID=290

Saturday, December 25, 2010

Christmas Day

Merry Christmas everyone!! Hoping everyone is having a happy and safe holiday season. Today's run schedule calls for a 9-miler. It's wet and snowing outside. Debating on getting off my butt and knocking out this run. Got some new running gear for Christmas. Mrs Claus gave me a pair of Adidas Cushion Response 19s. SWEET!!! Just in time for my run at a couple marathons in March and April. She bought me a bright orange long sleeve running shirt as well. Says I need to be seen when I run at O-Dark-30. :) I think Mrs Claus has a thing for me. Hope everyone is enjoying the holidays. Happy running.

Friday, December 24, 2010

Hills, hills, hills

After yesterday's 9-miler in the cold and wind, I ran a 4-miler over the hills today. Actually felt good for the most part. Took off too fast though. First mile was a 7:49. I knew, with hills coming up, I needed to slow down. Still completed my run in 31:55, which I was pleased with. Planning another 9-miler on Christmas day. All depends on what Santa brings me. :) Merry Christmas everyone.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Week 2

Slow week so far. It's Wednesday and I only have four miles posted. Might have jumped into the training to soon after St Jude. Oh well, going to adjust and take today off to get some rest and hit the hills tomorrow for a nine miler. Gotta make room for all those holiday goodies Deb and the girls are making for me. :) Wonder if I'll get any running gear for Christmas. Hmmmmmm...... ;)

Monday, December 20, 2010

Little Rock Training

First week of training for Little Rock in the books. 41 miles completed, with my long run of 17 miles. Not too bad considering I just ran St Jude's two weeks ago. Legs are a little tired still but, starting to get into the groove of training again. Deb is helping me with some of my runs. Which, by the way, is greatly appreciated. Looking forward to our four mile run in the morning. Maybe we'll have some snow to run in by the time Christmas arrives. one can wish. :)

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Little Rock Marathon

While still in my recovery week following St Jude, I'm getting excited about the Little Rock Marathon. Making my first attempt to be a fund raiser for the American Heart Association. My goal is to raise $500 for the cause. Having several family members who suffer from heart ailments, such as my Mom and Dad, I thought it would be best if I put my running efforts to a better cause. If you are interested in helping this cause, please follow the link and help us reach our goal. Thank you.

http://www.littlerockmarathon.com/Donate/PersonalPage.cfm?MID=6723&CID=290

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

First Run

First run since St Jude. It was 34 degrees outside and gettign dark. Deb waited for me to get home from work so she could run with me. We took it nice and easy and enjoyed the run. I think we averaged a 9:46 pace for 3.12 miles. Not bad. Legs are still tired but it felt good to get back out there. Still in recovery mode this week. Next week I'll start my training for the Little Rock marathon. Gotta do well on this one. Running for the American Heart Association. Trying to raise $500 for the cause.

Saturday, December 4, 2010

St Jude's Done!


Up at 4am to get on the road by 5am. Arrived in Memphis a little after 6am. It was already 55 degrees and a bit windy. Humidity was at 85%. 16,000+ runners between the marathon, half and 5K. Made the mistake of trying to use the Elite's Porta-potty close to the start line. A race official came up and got on the whole group who was in line to use them. "Those are for the Elites!", she stated. I forgot, my bodily functions are beneath that of the Elites. LOL!! No biggie, big row of them just a couple blocks away.

Well, we got started just after 8am. One thing that never ceases to amaze me is the runner traffic you face during the first couple of miles. This one took about five miles to really start thinning out. Seemed like everytime you would go to pass someone, they would drift over in front of you as to block you. Hey, we're not competing for the winner money, let it go. Ha Ha!! Just funny. Annoying at the time but, funny now. Did I mention the wind?? It steadily increased. And it always seemed to hit you as you would run uphill. Oh yeah, there were hills. LOTS of them. Most of them UP!! It certainly took a lot out of the runners. My Pit Crew (Deb and Amy) were there. Got to see them twice on the course. That was awesome!! Amy high fived me, and Deb gave me some sugar. :) Gotta love my girls!

Well, it wasn't my best race as there was no PR involved. But, it wasn't my worst race. It was right in the middle. The main thing is, it was for a great cause. If you have one race to run in your life, this is the one to experience. This race raises money for St Judes Hospital. The St Jude Heroes raised 3 million dollars this year. That amount of money keeps the hospital running for 2-days. So you can imagine they need all the help anyone can provide. And speaking of St Judes, the course takes you through the campus of the hospital. What an awesome, yet sad, experience. They help these poor kids suffering from various illnesses. Great bunch of people who were more than appreciative of the folks running this race. I will be back to run it again next year and help raise money for them. Great race!!

Friday, December 3, 2010

St Jude



14 hours to go until the start of this race. I'm pretty excited about this one. I truly wish I had done the fund raising for St Jude's. I know I will do this next year when I go back to run it again.

Had almost a full month to recover from the MidSouth marathon. Legs are feeling good, motivation is there, just need to make sure I set the alarm and get up on time to make it to the race. :) Deb and Amy will be going with me. You know it's not a good race unless Team Wise is there. Well, I will have results posted sometime tomorrow. Let's get it on!!

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Taper Week

Six days out from running the St Jude's marathon in Memphis, TN. Had a great run today. Everything is feeling good right now. Looking forward to a nice, relaxing taper week. Hoping my Thanksgiving feast didn't put too much of a damper on my distance running. :) It was good food though. Looking like we'll skip the hotel in Memphis and just get up early and drive to the race. They advise being there by 6:30 am, so as to get a parking space and make your way to the starting line at 4th and Beale Streets. Hoping to set a new PR in this race. It is calling for rain that day so, hopeful it holds off as well. Will post pics and time after the race.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

WIND!!!!

Ok, this wind is getting ridiculous. Almost a week straight of high winds. Hoping it dies down a bit on Thanksgiving so I can get a decent run in. I figure, if I can get in a good run before dinner, I can justify the kind of meal I plan on having. I haven't run since Sunday. I know I'm in taper mode but, I think I really need to quit being lazy. Once I complete St. Jude's, that will give me six marathons (one being an ultra) in my quest for 50. I know, long way to go but, at least I'm on my way. St. Jude's will also qualify me for the Marathon Maniacs club as well. Would love to follow St. Jude's up with either the Mississippi Blues Marathon in Jackson, MS (Jan), or the Mercedes Marathon in Birmingham, AL (Feb). Guess we'll see. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.

Monday, November 22, 2010

St Jude's

Twelve days out from the St jude's marathon, in Memphis, TN. Still battling some minor cramping in my right calf. During my long run, yesterday, it started cramping on me as I went up and over the railroad tracks. Not even a full mile into my run. Started thinking to myself, "This sucks!" But, was able to finish the full 12 miles in just over 1 hr and 41 minutes. I'm happy with that. All my other runs during the week were pretty face paced. It was nice to be able to slow down a bit. However, I think the wind played a huge part in my slowing down as well. We had steady 12 mph winds, with 18 mph gusts out of the South. And come on, this is November!!! What's with the 65+ degrees and humidity??

Everyone all together now, "No wind on Dec 4th please. And temps in the 30s to low 40s as well". That's not asking for much is it??

Thursday, November 18, 2010

2011

Ok, my buddy Barrett has me talked into running the Andrew Jackson Marathon, in Jackson, TN, with him in April. I'm redirecting my goal from running 50 marathons in 50 states (Not giving up on it) to running 50 marathons before my 51st birthday. My plans are to run the local circuit to help me achieve that goal. This consists of the MidSouth marathon here in Wynne, St Jude's marathon in Memphis, Tupelo marathon in Tupelo, MS, and repeat. Little Rock is an option but, Barrett and I have committed to running the relay with our fellow Muckas and continue to defend our first place title in the Law Enforcement/Military division.

My goal for the Andrew Jackson marathon is to come in under 3 hrs and 50 minutes. Keep chipping away, little by little, at that Boston Qualifying time. I have noticed one thing. My marathon times continue to go down. However, my half marathon times have gone up. I'm still under 1 hr and 50 minutes on them but, just barely. Guess I need to learn to do more speed work.

Colder weather coming, makes for better running. Everyone enjoy your runs and stay warm! :)

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Recovery Week

This week has been a decent one. Got in several runs with Deb, and she helped keep me motivated. Was supposed to have a Muckas Run this morning but, the rain and opening day of deer season put a damper on the group run. Deb got in a great bike ride at home. I waited until around 4pm to get my run in. About 54 degrees outside, little to no wind, and partly cloudy skies. Had some trouble getting my left calf to loosen up but, it finally did around my fourth mile. Fifth and sixth miles were at 7:48 and 7:33. Still have some tightness in my left calf but, that's to be expected considering I just completed my second marathon in less than three weeks last weekend. St Jude's marathon now three weeks out. Let's get it on. :)

Sunday, November 7, 2010

MidSouth Kid's Marathon




This was really cool. They had a Kid's Marathon this year. Each child who takes part, builds up 25 miles leading up to this day. Then, they run the last 1.2 miles and finish in the football stadium. The same finish line the adults come into when they finish the half and full. Our youngest, Amy, took part in this. She wasn't feeling the greatest, as she had just received her flu shot the day before. But, she toughed it out, with Deb by her side. Like I mentioned in my other post, it was about 29 degrees when we all started. Off they went and she was doing great. Poor girl, her shoe came out of a double knot and tripped her up. But, she got up and finished strong. So very proud of her for doing this. Especially in this day and age of video games. She got her medal and it was well deserved. GREAT JOB AMY!!! :)

MidSouth Done!




It was a cold start (29 degrees) but, we couldn't have asked for better weather. I don't think the field was as large as it was last year but, we still had a good showing. Barrett and I stayed together for the first half of the race. I started having some knee pain before we hit the turn around point but, nothing major. Once we passed the turn around point for the halfers, it got pretty quiet. We passed several runners as we entered the hills of Bay Road. They weren't major hills but, they just never seemed to stop coming. And, if you're going uphill on an out and back course, you would think it would be downhill on the way back. I don't know where the downhills went but, I don't recall seeing any. Once we hit 13.1 (right around 1hr 45 minutes) we fueled up on gels and pressed on. I started slowing down a bit and Barrett stayed with me for about another mile. After that, he started pulling away. I kept him in sight for quite a while but, lost him around mile 20. At mile 21, my right calf started cramping up again. Not sure why. I was hydrated, took salt tabs and what I thought was all the right things. But, still caught a cramp. I was still making better time than I thought I would with being just under three weeks out from running Columbus, Got through the last two hills and it was all downhill from there. Crossed the finish line with 3:53:50 on my watch. I was 19 seconds slower than my PR time in Columbus. I'm happy with that. Had several folks from our Muckas Running Club running as well. Everyone did a great job.

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Mid South Marathon

Ok, they say you can't go on to your next race until you've forgot about the last race. Well, after the experience I had in Columbus, it is hard to forget it. :) However, I am getting psyched for the race here in Wynne. We are two weeks out from this race and my recovery is coming along nicely. Deb is really helping me out with this by keeping my pace under control and, getting me out there to get my recovery runs in. It is nice having a race right here in my current hometown. No worries about a hotel, finding packet pick-up, and we're right around the corner from the start/finish line so we don't even have to drive there. And this year they are having a kids' marathon in which Amy is taking part in. She's doing great in her preparation for it as well. I'm very proud of her and can't wait to see how she does for her final 1.2 miles of the race. Deb is going to be there with her when she does it. The rest of us will already be off and running our races. This will be my second marathon in just under three weeks. So looking forward to doing this race with our Muckas Running Club members. :)

Columbus Marathon




What an awesome race!! This was a homecoming for me. We got into town on Saturday. Went to the expo to pick up my packet and met up with Tony Brake, a friend I made through Daily Mile. After meeting Tony and his wife Sherry, we went into the expo. Talk about packed!! We didn't even look around as there were so many people in there. After that, Deb, Amy and I went to Karen's (Sis-in-Law) and had a nice pasta dinner. The alarm went off at 4am. We all got up, got loaded into the van and headed towards downtown Columbus. Had a heck of a time getting into the parking garage. Once we got parked, Deb, Amy, Karen and I made our way to the State Capital building. It was a bit cold outside.

While waiting for the start of the race, we met up with Tony and Sherry. Then several of our Daily Mile friends arrived as well. We all finally made it to our respective starting corrals. 15,000 runners packed into a city block. The live band (Danger Brothers) playing at the start line, the live version of the National Anthem, and the fireworks from the roof top really got the adrenaline flowing. Off we went. Felt good through most of the race. After passing mile 10, we entered the Schiller Park area where I saw my Mom, Dad and Sister by the water station. I got some hugs and high fives as I passed through. Dumped my sweaty gloves off to Mom ;) and kept on running. Just after mile 12, I saw Deb, Amy and Karen. Adrenaline was boosted again with seeing them. Made it through the OSU campus and passed the Horseshoe. Then I hit mile 20. My right calf started to cramp up. Second marathon in a row that this has happened. I fought through it and finished with a PR of 3:53:39!!! Finally!!! Broke the 4 hour time limit!!! Thanks to my pit crew (Deb and Amy) and the rest of my family (Mom, Dad, Sis and Karen) for being out there to support me. And it was great meeting my Daily Mile friends, and making new friends.

Sunday, October 10, 2010

1000 Miles

Went for my last long run before the Columbus Marathon. Set out with Deb and we ran 3.1 miles together. After that, I finished the rest on my own as she went in to ride the bike. The weather heated up quickly. Started off with 76 degrees and finished with 87 degrees. However, the bank sign was trying to play the Bugs Bunny mind trick on me by saying it was only 29 degrees. I almost fell for it. :) Finished with 10 miles all together. With that run, I hit 1000 miles for the year. Now it's time to take it easy before next Sunday's race in Columbus. Hoping to PR there.

Saturday, October 2, 2010

Columbus

Two weeks out from the Columbus Marathon. This is a much welcomed taper time. Looking forward to going back to Columbus and seeing family, running by the Horseshoe, and taking my little girl to the Columbus Zoo. Currently, I am 33 miles from breaking 1000 for the year. With 5000 miles since 2007 looming, I am really looking forward to reaching, and breaking every goal I set.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Columbus

We're about three weeks out from running the Columbus Marathon. Feeling pretty good about my progress so far. Last Sunday's 20-miler helped boost my spirits. Fastest one to date. Just under 3-hours. I was very pleased with that one. Can't wait to get back to Columbus and knock this one out!!

Sunday, August 22, 2010

4000 BABY!!

Finally made it!! I started recording my miles back in Jan of 2007. After my 19 mile long run today, which was very humid, I surpassed the 4000 mile mark by 1.5 miles. Now I am working on 5000!! Keep the miles coming as I am staying healthy by completing each mile!! Want to be around a long time for my family. :)

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Muckas Running Club


We had our first official Muckas Running Club Run/Walk today. Had eight people total, which is not bad for a first meeting. Seems like it is doing nothing but going in the right direction. In just about two-weeks time, our page on Facebook went from 15-members, to 87. Ethan and Holly Cook are involved now and are really energetic about the whole club. Ethan has already planned out a 5K race route, which we ran this morning, and is working on sponsors. We are in the process of coming up with a club logo and will be working on t-shirts as well. The nice thing about having the page on Facebook is we have club members all over the United States. Actually received an e-mail from one of our co-workers, in Houston, asking if he could start a chapter down there. Awesome!! I love it that folks realize the benefits of fitness, as well as having others to help achieve their fitness goals. The picture above is a possible winner for the club logo. Of course, it will have some alterations done to it. I believe Holly is going to give him a running outfit and some cool running shoes. Tell us what you think. And if you're on Facebook, look us up under Muckas Running Club. Possible website to follow.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Columbus



Columbus Marathon, 9-weeks to go. Training has been going well so far. Although, yesterday's recovery run met with some weird results. Felt as if my leg went numb, then no control over it and had a slight pain. Completed my run and then soaked my leg. Changed my running shoes for today's 9-miler. Felt much better on this run. Just the slightest discomfort. But, it still felt good to get it done. Hopefully it is nothing major. Gotta be strong and healthy for this race, and the two marathons to follow.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Update

100 miles to go and counting until I reach 4000 since Jan 2007. The intense heat outside is really putting a damper on a lot of folks running throughout the nation. Our current temp is 95 with a heaat index of 111. While running the other day, Deb and I saw the local high school kids finishing up their football practice. I feel for them. These temps and being in those pads is not a good mix.

I started a running club page, on Facebook, called Muckas Running Club. Mainly family and friends who we know, who are involved in fitness one way or the other. Now, we're talking about making it an official club. Several of the members, here in the local area, want to really amp it up and start running/walking together. Pretty motivated about this as it helps bring folks together for a good, common goal. Getting fit. Just need to come up with a logo to put on the site and possibly t-shirts. :)

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

HEAT!!!!

The Mid-South Region is under an Extreme Heat Warning. Current temp is 103 with a heat index of 108. The heat index has actually dropped a bit from earlier. Went out for a four-mile recovery run, with Deb, this morning. Got out a little late again. 9:30 am and the temp was already at 88 with a heat index of around 100. Many people are negative towards a treadmill but, with this type of heat going on, it may be the wise decision in staying healthy. Going to continue to attempt the early morning runs, closer to 5:00 am, and see how that goes.

Deb is not a heat liking person so, I give her all the credit in the world. She laced up and hit the road with me. She really keeps me motivated on my runs. I am very thankful for that. Started off with frozen water bottles. They were pretty much completely melted at 1 1/4 miles in. About 2 1/2 miles in, they were warm. CRAZY!! I feel like I'm getting stronger while building up to my next marathon (Columbus). I'm going to need all the strength I can muster up with running three consecutive marathons over three months. Have a few marathons in the planning process for 2011. Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon is a good possibility. Gotta work something out with my Cousin so we can get a race in together.

Stay safe and stay hydrated out there. Run smart.

Friday, July 30, 2010

This says it all!! :)

Columbus

Well, we're about 2 1/2 months out from the Columbus Marathon. I'm really excited about running this race. Going back to Columbus and running in front of my family is kind of cool. And after the race, we are taking Amy to the Columbus Zoo. She loves the zoo and I have wanted to take her there for a long time. I may be more excited about going than she is. :)

Well, I knocked out back-to-back 8-mile runs, today and yesterday. My legs are feeling it. They seem to be very tired. I can tell I have increased my mileage quite a bit. But, it will all be for the best when I PR in Columbus!! 4-miler tomorrow, followed by a 16-miler Sunday!! Happy running everyone.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Speed

I'm starting to come to the conclusion that speedwork is all for young runners. I enjoy a nice, easy, slow paced long run. I guess that comes with age. :) Nah, I think I'll continue to chase a PR!! :) Can't let the youngsters have all the fun!!

Thursday, July 15, 2010

The Race to 4000

As my training for the Columbus Marathon continues, the miles build up. I am around 200 miles from achieving 4000 miles recorded since January 2007. I should be pretty close to that goal by the end of August. Pretty motivated for this milestone. Considering I was always the fat kid who hated to run.

Friday, July 2, 2010

State Runs

I posted a question a while back, asking where all everyone has run. I can officially add Alabama to my list. Spent a week in Anniston, training for work. Got in a couple runs while I was there. Hilly and humid. Glad I was able to get it done. Back-to-back hill runs took a little toll on my legs just a bit. Guess I need to get some more hill training in to continue to get my body ready for my races in the fall.

Friday, June 25, 2010

Monthly Mileage

After today's five mile run, I now have the second highest monthly mileage for the year. And after tomorrow's 11-mile run, I will have a new high total. I like being able to better my monthly totals, and still feel good when I do it. Other than a blister on my karate pinky toe, I have had a good training month. And I still have another week of running mileage to add to it. Keep moving forward!!

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Closing in on 4000

I started logging my miles back in January 2007. Since then, I have stayed true to maintaining a record of all the miles I have put in. My times may not all be there but, the miles are. Currently, I am 300 miles away from breaking the 4000 mile mark. This just motivates me even more to continue with my running and to continue to see how far I can push my mileage. With Deb running with me, I am even more motivated. Looking forward to running more races with her. :)

Friday, June 18, 2010

New Training Schedule

With 18-weeks to go before Columbus, I decided to switch over to the Hal Higdon Intermediate Marathon training schedule. There are a couple weeks in there that total 50-miles for the week. Never put that many miles into one week but, I'm looking forward to the challenge. I'm pretty much running pain free right now. Hoping and praying it stays that way. Deb bought me some new Asics 1150s for my birthday. :) She knows what I like. I am really looking forward to running in Columbus and having my family out there to support me. It will be a good homecoming. Hoping to PR in this race. THat would be great to PR during a hometown race.

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Week 3

After a hectic week at work, with Regional Staff coming in, I'm back at my training. Had back-to-back 6-mile tempo runs. Both runs felt great. Got another 6-miler scheduled for today, followed by an 11-miler tomorrow. Going to take it easy on these two runs to give my legs a little break. Haven't spent much time biking or swimming so, still uncertain as to the Mighty Mite this year. The way Deb is training though, I think she should do it. She's been killing her trainings. She'll knock out walk, run, and bike sessions all in one day. She's an animal. :) Can't wait to get back to Columbus and run. This will be an exciting homecoming for me. A lot of the family are planning to come out and watch the race. Gotta do well! :) Well, off for an easy 6-miler!

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Training for Columbus

Two weeks into my training program for the Columbus Marathon. Feeling good so far. Fought through some shin pain but, building up my tolerance for the pain. The humidity is really starting to build here in Arkansas. That will make October's weather a welcome sight. :) Two weeks in, 54 miles down.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Early Morning

Met up with Barrett at 5:30am. We went for a 6-mile run to start off my training for Columbus. Finished at 49:35. It was warm, humid, and a little windy but, it was good to get back to running outside. Not to mention knocking it out early in the morning so the rest of the day would fly by. Getting more and more motivated to get into this training cycle. Feeling good about it so far. :)

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Columbus

Well, I start my training for Columbus this week. Going to go with a 21-week plan this time. Been running a maitenance program since Cowtown. Now it's time to get back into training mode. I plan on being about 15 pounds lighter for this race. This will help carry me into the following months where I have two more marathons scheduled. Also, still eyeing that Mighty Mite Triathlon in July. Going to be a busy Summer.

Thursday, May 20, 2010

What the Hell!!!

What in the world possesses someone, let alone two people, to drive along the highway, get pulled over, then pull out assault rifles and kill police officers?? What is going on with our world?? Police officers, sworn to protect us, are gunned down for no reason. Fellow officers, our Brothers, killed......FOR WHAT??? Two Daddy's will never return to their families now because two idiots had no respect for the law or the lives of fellow human beings.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

2010 Torch Run


Good run for a good cause today. We had 12 runners from SORT and DCT out there running today. Just like last year, had to keep Barrett under control. He's like the Big Monster on Monsters vs Aliens. Attracted to the bright colored vehicle. Three of us ran the whole 14 miles from Forrest City into Wynne. Then we all loaded up and drove to Parkin and picked up the group coming in from Marion. Got 15 miles in total. Good day. Weather was great. Got some great effort out of our team members.

Saturday, May 15, 2010

Long Run Day

Well, I have a 14 miler on schedule for tomorrow. This will be my longest run since Cowtown. Got Barrett coming down to run it with me. Makes it seem easier when you have a partner to help push you on your run. We'll follow this up with a 13.5 mile run on Wednesday. We're running in the LawEnforcement Torch Run from Forrest City to Wynne. I'll have pics to post after the run.

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Rest Day

Made it through Thursday, and I think I'm going to take the day off. Give my legs a much deserved rest. Five miler scheduled for tomorrow, followed by a 14 miler on Sunday. June is right around the corner and so is the start of my training schedule for my run at those three marathons. Time to get serious. :)

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Hot, Hot, hot

Well, the heat and humidity are here. It was around 90 degrees today, coupled withthe humidity, seemed hotter. Looks like I'll have to start dragging my butt out of bed a little earlier and get my runs in before the sun comes up. Anyone care to join me?

Saturday, May 8, 2010

CWW 5K


Wow, 58 degree weather with high winds. Talk about your fun and challenging 5K. We had a blast. Deb and I ran the whole way together. She was the first woman to cross the finish line. Very proud of her. :) When we hit the turn around point, we turned right into a strong head wind. But, she pushed through it with no problem. Might be the start of another addiction. :)

Friday, May 7, 2010

First Triathlon

Ok, decided to add a twist to my running. Spoke with my buddy, Barrett, and we're going to run the Mighty Mite Triathlon starting in Village Creek State Park and ending at Forrest City high school. Going to be interesting since I only have a mountain bike, not a racing bike. But, I'll give it hell anyway. Really looking forward to this. I'll keep you posted on the training and the final results. If anyone has advice for training, please share.

5K for fun

Going to run a 5K at work tomorrow. Not going to do it for competition. Going to just enjoy a day with my family and friends, and keeping up with our fitness. Deb might run it with me. Would be our first race type run together.

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Today's Run

Still feeling the effects of that long week at Ft Hood, I really didn't want to run today. That was until I got on Facebook and saw my cousin was knocking out the Pittsburgh Marathon for his 16 th state. So I got off my butt and knocked out a 6 miler. Felt good to get it done. Ready to really get back into it. Congrats on number 16 cuz. Hoping to have my fourth knocked out by the end of the year.

Saturday, May 1, 2010

May

Ok, just got back from a week at Ft Hood, TX for our Regional Crisis Management Training. Spent that week living in an open bay barracks with a bunch of crazy, gas filled tactical trainers. While exposed to the sun and wind on our range, we had a pretty good time running the SORT guys through their firearms courses. Was pretty worn out so I only got a few runs in while I was there. Still debating on Columbus. Will start my training for it next month, just in case.

Mom is scheduled to be released Monday. Hopefully things go well with that. She's been in there over a month.

Friday, April 9, 2010

Update

Mom is doing much better. She walked about 100 feet today, been off the ventilator all day, and can eat certain foods by mouth now. Thanks for all your prayers. Runs are coming back. Two five milers so far this week. Registered for the Midsouth Marathon, in Wynne, today. Still uncertain on Columbus.

Saturday, April 3, 2010

Mom

Up in Columbus,Ohio this week. Mom is in the hospital. She's having a rough go at it this time. Running put on hold this week. Prayers for Mom please.

Sunday, March 28, 2010

Spring Break

Just ended Spring Break with a 12 mile run. Maintained an 8:23 pace. Spent the weekend at a cabin in Crowley's Ridge State Park with Deb and Amy. We had a blast. Did some hiking on their trails. Rode out the thunderstorms that rolled through on Saturday night. Cooked out, and just had a great time. Can't wait to do it all again. Going to try a different park next time. :) Still on track with my maintenance training. June will be the start of my training for my end of the year goal with three marathons in three months.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Fall Races

Ok, I've set out to really challenge myself this fall. You already know I have plans to run the Columbus Marathon in October. That will be Oct 17th. My buddy, Barrett, has already signed up to run the Midsouth Marathon here in Wynne, in November. I promised him that I would run that one with him. Let's go for the Hat Trick. Making plans to run the St Jude's Marathon, in Memphis, in December. Three marathons in three months. That is my goal. I'll keep you posted on it as it all draws near.

Sunday, March 21, 2010

Maintaining

Still fighting my cold but, still getting my runs in. Got in 20 miles this week. Taking next week off from work to spend spring break with the girls. Might spend a night or two in a cabin. Deb is picking up on her runs. Maybe I can convince her to run a 5k with me. Of course she'd blow me away. She's a speedster. :) Well, no big races until the Columbus Marathon in October. Going home for this one. Looking forward to having my folks out there.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

This whole weather change stuff sucks. Fighting a cold really hampers my run time. Maybe some nyquil and a day of sleeping will help.

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Little Rock



Well, eight days after running the full marathon at Cowtown, three of my SORT Brothers and I took on the marathon relay challenge at Little Rock. Got there Saturday (3/6) and checked into our hotel in Crackville! Barrett, you are no longer in charge of hotel finding! LOL! Went to the expo and found my cousin, Bob. Haven't seen him in over 30 years. Funny, I remember him being a lot taller. :) It was great spending time with him and catching up a little. Well, we arrived at the marathon on Sunday. Brent ran the first leg (6.2 miles). I had the second leg (6.9 miles). After running the weekend before, I sure felt every step of this run. Got to the relay point and handed off to Barrett. He had the most grueling part of the run. 7.8 miles of nothing but uphill. Glad it was him and not me!! The last leg was Eric's part (5.3 miles) We finished with a time of 3 hrs and 39 mins. I'm told that is gun time so, we're still waiting on the official results. As it stands right now, we took first place in the Law Enforcement/Military division, and 15th out of 200 relay teams overall. Not bad for our first time running a marathon relay. We celebrated with a beer and lunch while hanging out with my cousin at the Flying Saucer right by the start line. The rest of the team seems to have the bug and want to return next year to defend our title. :) Next big race will be the Columbus Marathon in October. Going home for this one. It was awesome seeing my cousin out here and looking forward to actually running a full marathon with him. He's got me motivated to work on the 50 marathons in 50 states.

Monday, March 8, 2010

Cowtown

Did it!! Still didn't get my goal of being under 4 hours but, I did beat my first marathon time by 3 minutes. Traveled to Ft Worth on Friday, Feb 26. Actually drove through some snow flurries. I'm thinking out loud, to myself and Deb, I don't think I've ever run a race in the snow before. Got to the hotel, checked in, hooked up with Jimmy and Hollee, had dinner, then headed to the expo. Really stoked about this race. Feeling my training regiment went pretty good this time. Got to the race Saturday morning with the wind chill at 30 degrees. Met up with AJ, who was running the half. We finally made it to the start line several minutes after the gun went off. Oh yeah, there were over 22,000 people running Cowtown this year. Once we cleared a lot of the crowd, we settled into a decent pace. On target for actually beating the 4 hr goal. AJ and I split at the 8 mile mark. That's when it seemed to get very quiet. Just the full and ultra marathoners past this point. Still cruising along pretty good. Unfortunately, found out where they had been hiding all the hills over the years. Hit mile 19 and my calves started cramping on me. Had to take several breaks to stretch them out. Finally made it to the finish line at 4hrs 11 mins. Enjoyed a few free beers with my friends. Then went back to the hotel and enjoyed the pool and hot tubs with Deb and Amy. :) Another marathon down. Thinking about trying to do the 50 marathons in 50 states thing. I know, lost my mind on the run!! Little Rock Marathon relay next!!

Monday, February 15, 2010

Less Than Two Weeks

Ok, we're officially less than two weeks out from Cowtown now. Had a good two weeks worth of runs recently. Hit my last 20-miler on the 7th. Ran from the house to work. Of course, I wasn't about to run back. Deb and Amy came and picked me up. Good thing I got it know out that day because the next day we were snowed in. Hit a 12-miler yesterday. Now it is time to start tapering in preparation for the big run. Trying to shoot for under four hours this time. We'll be heading to Ft Worth on either Thursday or Friday. Looking forward to seeing our friends back there. Several of my SORT guys are running the 5K again this year. They'll be done and wearing out the Miller Lite truck way before I get back. Might have to carry them all home. LOL

Monday, January 25, 2010

Got it!

Knocked out my first 20 miler of the year. Had a 9:09 pace, which I think was pretty good considering. According to my schedule, I have one more 20 miler to run before the race. STOP THE INSANITY!! :) Cowtown is about a month away. Hopefully the weather will be good this year.

Monday, January 18, 2010

No 20 miler

Well, I re-checked my schedule, thinking I had a 20 miler to run yesterday. I was off by a week. I had an 18 miler to do. So, I went out and knocked out the 18 miler. Felt pretty good actually. Ran a nice slow pace and made it through just fine. next week is the 20 miler. Just over a month out from Cowtown.

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!!!!!!

An entire week now of 20 degrees or less outside. Oh well, guess it will have me ready for Cowtown. I just read their brochure. It said the average temp on race day is 51 degrees. BS!!!!! I have yet to run a race there where the temp was above 35 when we start. Training is going well. Going to try and hit a 20 miler next weekend. Wish me luck!

Sunday, January 3, 2010

Starting off 2010

Amy's birthday is today so, I knocked out my long run yesterday. Did a 16 miler at around a 9 minute pace. Glad I did get it done yesterday as we woke up to some snow and under 30 degrees outside. It still has not gone above 25 degrees. Felt ok on my run. Little twinge in my left knee but, doing fine. Got that "Just got in a good workout" sore going on. Might have to do another long run tomorrow to work off the Chuck E Cheese day we just had. Less than two months out from Cowtown!! Happy New Year!!