Here we are, 2 1/2 weeks out from running St Jude. Looks like we will have three Muckas running the full and around 5 - 10 running the 5K. Looking forward to having a great run as I try and build off my PR time at MidSouth. Recovery time, since MidSouth, has been pretty good. Times are good. Just dealing with a nagging pain in my right foot. Seems that whenever I pick up my pace and run under an 8-minute pace, it starts to hurt right on the top, above my arch. Not sure what I did but it all started during the MidSouth race. Now, this is the same foot I injured during the Jonesboro marathon, back in May. But, it wasn't really an issue while completing my training runs. I'm wondering if, by switching to Brooks, that had something to do with it. It seems that my right foot has been having issues ever since switching over. I did, however, switch back to Adidas. And, if Santa is nice to me, I will have some new Adidas for Christmas. :) Late for St Jude but, just in time for Little Rock. I do have a pair of Adidas that still have some life in the tread. Enough to get me through St Jude.
After getting my PR at MidSouth, I'm planning on helping Holly get her time under 4-hours. She came in at 4:09 at MidSouth and is determined to break that 4-hr goal. It always helps when you have someone running with you, to help push you along. Espcially when you start getting past the halfway point. We ran together for the first 16-miles of MidSouth before she started to fall behind. If I had stayed with her, I may have been able to push her. I've got my sub-4, now it's time to help others. :) I think she'll get it.
Now, on to our 5K folks. My Wife, Deb, is running the 5K this year. Now, she tells everyone she is not competitive. Let me tell you, that woman is a closet competitor. :) She has been training her butt of for this thing. She has been running with me and getting faster and faster. I keep telling her we'll run whatever pace she wants to go. She blames me for going too fast but, I'm following her pace. So, who's to blame?? LOL! I love the fact that she is doing this. She wants to "Do well" and by well, she means kick butt and have a great time. One of her most recent 5K training runs had her at a 8:18 pace. Smokin!! She is going to rock this race!!!
Post race reports to follow on Dec 4th. :)
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Friday, November 11, 2011
MidSouth Championship Marathon - DONE!
This year's race was not near as cold as last year's. Last year we started off with 29 degree weather. This year, we were a little closer to 40 degrees. We had 11 Muckas running in this year's event. Five running the full and 6 running the half. Some running new distances for the first time. There were 191 running the full and 228 running the half. This event continues to grow, year after year. Heck, you can't beat the price. And the small town, friendly atmosphere makes for a great experience.
As we all met at the starting line, we had the opening prayer given by William Zahler, from Panama City, FL. This was a blessing as this gentleman had run the full marathon in 2009. As he came across the finish line, he collapsed, suffering a heart attack. Medical staff quickly rendered aid and rushed him to the hospital where he recovered from his heart attack. While at the hospital, the MidSouth race committee presented him with his trophy. Two years later, Mr. Zahler returned to run the half, and thank those that saved his life. Amazing!
Once the starter's pistol went off, 419 runners took off down Lemons toward Hamilton. Not even a half mile into it and people started stripping their clothes off. One man tossed his shirt off to the side of the road and continued on his speedy pace wearing nothing but his gloves, American flag shorts (Short-shorts) and his running shoes. Every now and then his tan line would peek out from the top of his shorts. LOL! As we cruised up the slight incline of Hamilton, we were greeted by many supportes along the way. At the corner of Hamilton and Killough, the elderly lady, who lives there, was out in full force with all her support signs! She's there every year.
Rounding the corner and heading up 64B, we fastly approached our first real hill. Brandon, James, Jerry and Jody were up ahead. Holly, Kevin and I made our way up the hill. I think running in a pack, with the adrenaline of the race pushing you, helped us blow right through the hill. Further down 64B, we started running into some thick fog. That was pretty cool, looks and temperature wise. Kevin was still hanging with Holly and I. Now, this was Kevin's first full marathon. His training was not consistent so, he was worried about completing this race. He stayed with us through the first 10 miles. Then the hills started taking their toll on him. His pace slowed but, he was never too far behind. We saw the first full marathoner coming back as we approached mile 11. Then, just before mile 12, a larger group of full marathoners were coming back. None of them looking winded at all. Oh, to be that young and in shape again. LOL!
As we came upon the turn-around point, we saw Jerry walking in the other direction. This was his first full marathon as well. He went out strong but, something was wrong at this point. As we ran back past him, I asked him if he was ok. He said, "No." and he was going to talk to medical at mile 14. Holly and I pushed on. We saw Kevin and Tim running towards the turn around point, looking strong. At mile 16, I started to pull away from Holly. We were hitting the aid stations every mile now, as the temps were warming up. Running to each station and walking through each one. There was an older gentleman running ahead of me. I decided I would keep up with him. We spoke briefly while we were running. He told me he had a goal to be under 4-hours. At the pace were running, and where we were at on the course, I told him he shouldn't have any problem doing that.
Once I made it back onto 64B, I was feeling confident of finishing under 4-hours. The only issue I was having was some pain in my right foot, right above my arch, leading up into my ankle. This is the same ankle I hurt in Jonesboro. But, I pushed on. About 3 hrs and 33 mins into the race, my Garmin watch decided to shut off on me. This was at mile 24.15. Not knowing what my time was anymore, I tried to push harder. Coming down the last large hill on 64B, onto Killough, my right calf cramped up! Talk about bad timing. Walked for a few seconds, then took off again down Hamilton. Making my approach to the football stadium, the announcer called out my name and got me pumped up. Once in the stadium, rounding the track, I could see I was at 3 hrs and 53 mins. My current PR was 3:53:39. I crossed the finish line at 3:53:26!!!!! Deb was waiting there for me and gave me a huge kiss for my reward. :)
We had four Muckas place in the top 3 in their age groups. Everyone completed their race with a new PR as well. Jerry found out his problem was an allergic reaction to something in the air and is doing well now. Kevin completed his first marathon and is motivated to run another one. Holly PR'd and is wanting to break 4-hours now. Great job all around. Next up, St Jude!!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Almost Here
We are almost ready to toe that starting line here in Wynne, AR, for the 13th Annual MidSouth Marathon/Half Marathon. At 8:00 am, this Saturday, approximately 450 runners will take off at the sound of the starter pistol. This will be my third consecutive year running this race. One half and two full. This one seems a little more special. When I ran this race in 2009, there was an older gentleman running the full with his daughter. As he crossed the finish line, he collapsed. Suffering from a heart attack. The quick reaction of medical personnel saved this man's life. Two years later, he is back to thank those who saved his life and to run the course again. Amazing.
Everyone who runs has their own reasons in why they do so. Some run for health, some to celebrate an event and some just to remember. Me, I started running to lose weight. It turned into a challenge to see how far and fast I could go. Then, it turned into a race to help fight various illnesses. Currently, I am attempting to raise money in the fight against cancer. In this current race, I have managed to raise $400 for the Dana-Farber Cancer Research foundation. Although not much, it is a small contribution from those who have suffered the most. Friends and family who have been affected by this dreaded disease in one form or another.
As I complete my tenth marathon tomorrow, I will take another step forward in helping putting an end to cancer. Thank you to all who have supported me.
Everyone who runs has their own reasons in why they do so. Some run for health, some to celebrate an event and some just to remember. Me, I started running to lose weight. It turned into a challenge to see how far and fast I could go. Then, it turned into a race to help fight various illnesses. Currently, I am attempting to raise money in the fight against cancer. In this current race, I have managed to raise $400 for the Dana-Farber Cancer Research foundation. Although not much, it is a small contribution from those who have suffered the most. Friends and family who have been affected by this dreaded disease in one form or another.
As I complete my tenth marathon tomorrow, I will take another step forward in helping putting an end to cancer. Thank you to all who have supported me.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Almost Taper Time
With a 16-mile long run scheduled for Saturday, I look forward to it's completion as we start the wonderful 2-weeks of that lovely word all runners know as "tapering". This is where you cut back on your mileage to help give your body the much needed rest prior to running a marathon. I am meeting with some fellow Muckas to run the MidSouth marathon course to help better prepare ourselves for the race. Another great thing about having a marathon in your own backyard. :)
The taper couldn't start at a better time as I am in Denver next week for Hostage Negotiation training. My running tends to slow down while traveling. However, the taper mileage scheduled for next week is easily attainable while in Denver. Looking forward to the training, the runs in Denver, then getting back to my girls. When I return home, I'll be a week out from running my 10th marathon. I'm feeling good about my training so far. My speed has picked up greatly. I just hope my endurance is still there. I've been running with Deb quite a bit, during this training cycle, and she has stepped up on her game. She pushes me when I need it most.
In fact, she is joining us in Memphis, this Dec, to run the 5K. And let me tell you, she is going to smoke this race. I wish I was running it with her. I am so proud of her for doing this. Hoping she gets the bug. :) love my runs with her. Who knows, I may have to be her pit crew. :) Next thing you know, Amy will be joining us. A family affair.
Happy running everyone. Stay safe out there. Oh yeah, I finally took the plunge and joined the Marathon Maniacs. Looking forward to meeting more Maniacs.
The taper couldn't start at a better time as I am in Denver next week for Hostage Negotiation training. My running tends to slow down while traveling. However, the taper mileage scheduled for next week is easily attainable while in Denver. Looking forward to the training, the runs in Denver, then getting back to my girls. When I return home, I'll be a week out from running my 10th marathon. I'm feeling good about my training so far. My speed has picked up greatly. I just hope my endurance is still there. I've been running with Deb quite a bit, during this training cycle, and she has stepped up on her game. She pushes me when I need it most.
In fact, she is joining us in Memphis, this Dec, to run the 5K. And let me tell you, she is going to smoke this race. I wish I was running it with her. I am so proud of her for doing this. Hoping she gets the bug. :) love my runs with her. Who knows, I may have to be her pit crew. :) Next thing you know, Amy will be joining us. A family affair.
Happy running everyone. Stay safe out there. Oh yeah, I finally took the plunge and joined the Marathon Maniacs. Looking forward to meeting more Maniacs.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Columbus Marathon
One year ago today, I set my PR at the Columbus Marathon. This was one awesome experience for me as I came back to run a big race in my home town. My girls, Deb and Amy, were with me. My Sister-in-law, Karen, was with them to cheer me on. I got to meet my Dailymile friend, Tony Brake and his wife Sherry. The big part was actually having my mom, dad and sister there to cheer me on as well. This was not my first marathon but, the first one they were able to see me run.
Since mom was in her motorized wheel chair, I thought it best they not come to the starting area. She would have issues getting through the 20,000 plus runners and spectators there. In fact, I thought it best that they wait forme at Schiller Park. This was a couple miles from their house and made it easier to navigate. As I made my way into Schiller Park, I didn't see them right away. Then, as I was coming up on an aid station, I saw my sister. I was almost in her face before she saw me. She had water in one hand, her phone in the other. She yelled, "There he is!" I gave her a sweaty hug. Then I saw dad hanging onto a pole and he high fived me. Then, there was mom. She didn't see me until I was in her face, hugging her. She almost fell out of her chair from surprise. I handed her my sweaty gloves, told her to hold onto them, and ran off, leaving her with a sweaty hug, gloves and a smile.
After the race, I went back to my sister-in-law's house to get cleaned up and rest. For dinner, the girls and I met up with my family at our favorite pizza place, Rubinos, in Bexley. Mom couldn't stop bragging about my race. You'd think I won the marathon. Far from it but, she was proud. Who knew this would be the last time my parents would see me race. My mom's health deteriorated to the point we lost her almost four months later. Dad went six months after mom. I will never forget th look of pride in my parents eyes after that race. That will always hold a special place in my heart. As I run each race, I dedicate them to my mom and dad, in hopes that I can continue to make them proud.
Since mom was in her motorized wheel chair, I thought it best they not come to the starting area. She would have issues getting through the 20,000 plus runners and spectators there. In fact, I thought it best that they wait forme at Schiller Park. This was a couple miles from their house and made it easier to navigate. As I made my way into Schiller Park, I didn't see them right away. Then, as I was coming up on an aid station, I saw my sister. I was almost in her face before she saw me. She had water in one hand, her phone in the other. She yelled, "There he is!" I gave her a sweaty hug. Then I saw dad hanging onto a pole and he high fived me. Then, there was mom. She didn't see me until I was in her face, hugging her. She almost fell out of her chair from surprise. I handed her my sweaty gloves, told her to hold onto them, and ran off, leaving her with a sweaty hug, gloves and a smile.
After the race, I went back to my sister-in-law's house to get cleaned up and rest. For dinner, the girls and I met up with my family at our favorite pizza place, Rubinos, in Bexley. Mom couldn't stop bragging about my race. You'd think I won the marathon. Far from it but, she was proud. Who knew this would be the last time my parents would see me race. My mom's health deteriorated to the point we lost her almost four months later. Dad went six months after mom. I will never forget th look of pride in my parents eyes after that race. That will always hold a special place in my heart. As I run each race, I dedicate them to my mom and dad, in hopes that I can continue to make them proud.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Getting Close
Well, we are now officially four-weeks out from running MidSouth. Really looking forward to this race for several reasons. One, it's right here in the town we live in. Two, I am running this race to raise money for the Dana-Farber Foundation. Three, this will be my tenth marathon. Finally hitting double digits on the marathons.
Also, we have several Muckas running in this race as well. Joining me in the full marathon is my race partner from last year, Barrett Burns. Also, my race partner from the Tupelo Marathon, Holly Cook, who will be completing her second full marathon. Tim Haltiwanger will be joining us as well. Several Muckas are running the half. Jody Hodges, Sherry Rogers, Brandon Boger, Kevin Baxter and James Whitaker. James will be done before we hit the 10-mile mark. :)
This is going to be a great race. Just hoping the weather is close to what it was last year. Nice and cool and no wind. Loved it. Now if we can just get them to take out those darn hills. :) Happy running everyone. Stay safe.
Also, we have several Muckas running in this race as well. Joining me in the full marathon is my race partner from last year, Barrett Burns. Also, my race partner from the Tupelo Marathon, Holly Cook, who will be completing her second full marathon. Tim Haltiwanger will be joining us as well. Several Muckas are running the half. Jody Hodges, Sherry Rogers, Brandon Boger, Kevin Baxter and James Whitaker. James will be done before we hit the 10-mile mark. :)
This is going to be a great race. Just hoping the weather is close to what it was last year. Nice and cool and no wind. Loved it. Now if we can just get them to take out those darn hills. :) Happy running everyone. Stay safe.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Fall Weather
Man, I am loving this cooler weather! Makes my runs seem so much better. The temps have been perfect. Deb and I have run three times this week and neither of us had any trouble. Deb seems to be getting faster. Not sure if it has anything to do with the weather or if she's just been holding out on me. Either way, she's rocking these runs. We ran today and the third mile with Deb was in the high 7s. I went on to run another three miles and my last mile was a 7:09. I would have been in the high 6s had I not been held up by traffic. I was feeling pretty good, which makes me feel real good considering we just ran a 20-miler on Friday.
Speaking of my 20-miler, I was actually a week ahead of schedule for that run. Can't believe I got off schedule like that. Oh well, just means I need to repeat the week. Who knows, might just use this as an experimental mileage week. Don't want to get to crazy because we are getting close to MidSouth. Want to be under 4 hours again. Last year's run was a 3:53 time. Just missed my PR by 19 seconds, which I had run in Columbus just three weeks prior. Tupelo was rough but, have had plenty of rest. Another reason to be under 4 hours is my Garmin watch shuts off at 4 hours. Need a new one. Maybe Santa will be nice to me. :)
Ready to get this racing season under way. Deb is looking at racing in her first 5K at St Jude. Really excited about that. She's going to rock that race!! :) Happy running everyone. Stay fit and safe!
Speaking of my 20-miler, I was actually a week ahead of schedule for that run. Can't believe I got off schedule like that. Oh well, just means I need to repeat the week. Who knows, might just use this as an experimental mileage week. Don't want to get to crazy because we are getting close to MidSouth. Want to be under 4 hours again. Last year's run was a 3:53 time. Just missed my PR by 19 seconds, which I had run in Columbus just three weeks prior. Tupelo was rough but, have had plenty of rest. Another reason to be under 4 hours is my Garmin watch shuts off at 4 hours. Need a new one. Maybe Santa will be nice to me. :)
Ready to get this racing season under way. Deb is looking at racing in her first 5K at St Jude. Really excited about that. She's going to rock that race!! :) Happy running everyone. Stay fit and safe!
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