It appears that Connie has been handling some PR for me....She works out *religiously* at the Wellness Center and also follows a website called Turbulence Training. They have a forum where all the members talk about their workouts, diet, and body fat (What fun! Insert sarcasm here). She posted this on her TT forum and sent it to me:
On another note, lots of you have posted your blogs - I love reading other people's blogs! I don't have one personally, but I will toss my sister's blog out there as it is fun reading. If you have some time, read from the beginning. She is a good writer (does that for a living) but let me tell y'all...THE GIRL IS NOT A RUNNER!!!! She is attempting to complete a marathon for the Leukemia Society in honor of my Dad. Bless her heart, this is not really her gift!!! But she is determined and she will finish (her goal is to finish "upright, not crossing the line on a gurney!"). She posted a nice little slide show of my daddy and our family. I am so proud of her determination which is why I am bragging on her to y'all!!! (No we are not twins..she is 2 years older than I am!! But I am taller....and much nicer....heehee!!)
So hello to any TT'ers that may be reading! I know you are all in great shape and exercise like crazy. So be easy on me!
Monday, March 31, 2008
T-I-G-E-R-S --- TIGERS!!!!
I am still beyond excited about the Tigers win! FINAL FOUR!!!! Sports pundits are enjoying some free throw crow this morning after we shot 83.5% from the line. Here are some headlines:
- Memphis Hammers Texas
- Memphis Thumps Texas
- Memphis Athletes Overwhelm Texas
- Memphis Dishes Out a Big 'I Told You So' (my fave)
- Memphis Blows Past Texas
- Memphis Routs Texas
- They're GRRRRREAT! (another fave)
One little recap from Sports Illustrated.com:
The Memphis Tigers will finally get over the hump and advance to the Final Four under the direction of John Calipari. They have been knocking at the door for a few years now, winning over 30 games, entering the tournament as 1 & 2 seeds, but this year they have broken through with an impressive victory over Texas. They received excellent performances from their key players and even managed to shoot 30-36 at the free throw line. If they continue this level of play through next weekend, they'll be as tough an out as any of the remaining foes - when they're rolling, they can truly get loose. Though often doubted, caveated, and explained away, there is a reason Memphis leaves this game with a record of 37-1.
First time ever that all #1 seeds made it to the Final Four. I'm so glad we are one of them!!! It's a good day to be a TIGER!!! GO TIGERS!!!
Now, let's talk running. I wasn't sure the weather would cooperate with me this morning, so my original plan was the treadmill. But after a quick radar check, it looked ok so I headed outside. I put in 2.5 miles. NO PAIN! Some tightness in my achilles, but that's ok. I took it slow with some 4/2 intervals and it felt pretty good. I'm feeling good about this morning. Especially since there was no flare up with my knee. I stretched a lot yesterday, so that obviously helped. I feel good today. I'm very glad!Sunday, March 30, 2008
Tigers to the Final Four!!!
Wooo-Hoooo! How 'bout them Tigers!!!! My throat is killing me from screaming the whole game. My heart was racing, my stomach was hurting, my blood pressure was elevated. I'M SO EXCITED!!! We won! Texas never had a chance - they never even led. It wasn't even close. I kind of thought it would be a better matchup. But who cares?! WE'RE GOING TO THE FINAL FOUR!!! GO TIGERS!!!!
Stretching on Sunday
We are one hour away from tip off!!! I'm excited and nervous and just can't wait to see the Tigers do their thing against Texas. It promises to be a great matchup. I've almost worked myself into a gastric emergency. GO TIGERS GO!!!
GO TIGERS!!!
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Pain and Rain
Today's run:
8 miles not 10.
Knee HURT.
Rain.
Cold.
That about sums it up. My knee really decided not to participate so I walked most of the last two. And then really couldn't go the additional two. It's hurting pretty bad this afternoon. I'm going to get out the foam roller and see if I can roll out some of the tightness that I'm sure is causing this pain in the first place. (The roller is kind of neat. Jodi got it a few months ago. You just roll on it over the muscle. Feels good...eventually.)
8 miles not 10.
Knee HURT.
Rain.
Cold.
That about sums it up. My knee really decided not to participate so I walked most of the last two. And then really couldn't go the additional two. It's hurting pretty bad this afternoon. I'm going to get out the foam roller and see if I can roll out some of the tightness that I'm sure is causing this pain in the first place. (The roller is kind of neat. Jodi got it a few months ago. You just roll on it over the muscle. Feels good...eventually.)
I'm a bit discouraged by today's run. I trudged along. Made decent time. But then at the end, my knee just really hurt to run. I could walk with very little pain. So I did that. And I've just got to be ok with that. I have to realize that I haven't done any long runs since the G'town Half two weeks ago. So 8 miles is still pretty good. I guess.....
Lindy hung with me today. She was patient as I trotted along. She has a very gentle spirit. She ran the Phoenix Rock 'N Roll Marathon and later found out she had a stress fracture in her foot. She's recovered now and is training for San Diego. She has a *real* reason to be doing this. She is a leukemia survivor. She had CML and received 2 bone marrow transplants from her brother. Her 2nd transplant was ten years ago this April 15. She's doing great now. It was an inspiration to run with her today.
After the run, I went to Cooper's t-ball game. How entertaining that was! Cooper was so excited -- he loves baseball. But the kids were so funny. It was still freezing and damp at the game and I really couldn't get home and get in the tub quick enough. Then I took a little nap while I listened to the rain and watched "Ferris Buehler's Day Off". Nice restful afternoon.
Now, let's talk TIGERS. This is an AP story from FoxSports:
Memphis makes mincemeat of Michigan State--
Pity those poor, vulnerable Memphis Tigers. You know, the ones who just made mincemeat out of yet another team that was supposed to end their stay in the NCAA tournament. This time, they took it out on Michigan State, embarrassing yet again all those naysayers who suggested Memphis was the most suspect of the top seeds in this year's NCAA tournament. The final score Friday night: Memphis 92, Michigan State 74, but really, it was worse than that.
FINALLY a little R-E-S-P-E-C-T. The first half last night was some of the best basketball I've ever seen. The Tigers looked great. We were up by 30 at the half! If we continue to play like we did last night, we're headed all the way!!!
Friday, March 28, 2008
For a Cure
I am on the Rock 'N Roll Marathon team and there are two other groups that train with us: Country Music Marathon & Memphis in May Triathalon teams. So all three of us form the current Team in Training. In this week's update from Andrea at the Leukemia Society, she told us that the entire TEAM has raised $101,794 since we started our training and fundraising. Isn't that amazing?!?! Our team has funded two years of research by a local doctor to help find a cure for leukemia. YOU have done that!!! Doesn't that feel good? Thank you!!!
I got a gift in the mail today that put my current total at $3,001. So I'm officially over the $3,000 mark. Only $999 (OR MORE!!!) to go!!!
Now, I must get my Tiger shirt on and get my rally towel and get ready to CHEER FOR THE TIGERS!!!!! GO TIGERS!!!
Friday! Forms!
We all know what today is...REST DAY!!! I have grown to love sleeping for that extra hour. Long run is 10 miles tomorrow. I just confirmed it with George. He kills me when he says "a nice easy little 10 mile run". Whatever.
We got our recommitment info yesterday from the Leukemia Society. This is the time they say "You've committed to raise $4000. Will you still do that? Do you want to continue?" And we have to recommit. So - hint hint - if you are on the fence about making a donation to my efforts, this is the time to do it!!! Thank you for considering helping me out. (Every little bit helps. I'm very grateful!!!)
We have a ton of forms we have to fill out about our hotel reservations, race registration, shirt size, pasta party, post-race concert, transportation, etc. There's a part on the registration form that says "estimated finishing time" and it looks like this: [_ ] [ _ _ ] [_ _ ] (Hr Min Sec) What? no DAY option here? or no DOUBLE DIGIT hour option ... like 10 hours?!?
So I just went to talk to George about this "estimated finishing time" thing. The race organizers need to know this so they can group runners together with the same pace. In other words, the faster runners all start together so they don't run over a slower runner. (All the turtles get to start together!! Hooray!!) It's called your running 'corral'. Seriously. Like we're cattle. George said then everybody starts moving together. Of course I'm all about a good pun so I said "mooooooooooving together". He did a little calculating and he recommended 6:45:00. EEEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKK! I had thought from the beginning that I could finish in 7 hours. So he said to make it a bit challenging. So that's my goal. 6 hours, 45 minutes, 0 seconds. And that's what I put on my registration form. In pen. The End.
Today all the talk is T-I-G-E-R-S!!! They are playing in Reliant Stadium on a court right in the middle of a football field. The court is on a raised platform which makes the teams' benches below court level. Hope nobody gets too aggressive going after the ball. Here's a pic:
Some good ball last night. West Virginia almost knocked off Xavier. And the Vols lost!! I'll continue to pull for Louisville - maybe they can beat UNC tomorrow. But tonight it's all Tigers!!! I leave you with this great picture of Joey Dorsey doing his thing last week against Mississippi State. Check out his arms - WOW! GO TIGERS!!!!!
We got our recommitment info yesterday from the Leukemia Society. This is the time they say "You've committed to raise $4000. Will you still do that? Do you want to continue?" And we have to recommit. So - hint hint - if you are on the fence about making a donation to my efforts, this is the time to do it!!! Thank you for considering helping me out. (Every little bit helps. I'm very grateful!!!)
We have a ton of forms we have to fill out about our hotel reservations, race registration, shirt size, pasta party, post-race concert, transportation, etc. There's a part on the registration form that says "estimated finishing time" and it looks like this: [_ ] [ _ _ ] [_ _ ] (Hr Min Sec) What? no DAY option here? or no DOUBLE DIGIT hour option ... like 10 hours?!?
So I just went to talk to George about this "estimated finishing time" thing. The race organizers need to know this so they can group runners together with the same pace. In other words, the faster runners all start together so they don't run over a slower runner. (All the turtles get to start together!! Hooray!!) It's called your running 'corral'. Seriously. Like we're cattle. George said then everybody starts moving together. Of course I'm all about a good pun so I said "mooooooooooving together". He did a little calculating and he recommended 6:45:00. EEEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKK! I had thought from the beginning that I could finish in 7 hours. So he said to make it a bit challenging. So that's my goal. 6 hours, 45 minutes, 0 seconds. And that's what I put on my registration form. In pen. The End.
Today all the talk is T-I-G-E-R-S!!! They are playing in Reliant Stadium on a court right in the middle of a football field. The court is on a raised platform which makes the teams' benches below court level. Hope nobody gets too aggressive going after the ball. Here's a pic:
Some good ball last night. West Virginia almost knocked off Xavier. And the Vols lost!! I'll continue to pull for Louisville - maybe they can beat UNC tomorrow. But tonight it's all Tigers!!! I leave you with this great picture of Joey Dorsey doing his thing last week against Mississippi State. Check out his arms - WOW! GO TIGERS!!!!!
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Physiology 101
Today's pain is brought to you by that pesky iliotibial band. The IT Band is a layer of connective tissue. It begins at a muscle near the outside of the hip, travels down the outer side of your thigh, crosses the outerside of the knee, and attaches to the outer side of your upper shin bone. Iliotibial band syndrome occurs when the band repeatedly rubs over the bump of the thigh bone, near the knee, causing the band to be irritated. The band is rubbed over the bone when the knee is flexed and extended. All this occurs most often in, you guessed it, running.
So I have found some new stretching exercises to add to my repertoire. The rest of the treatment is the same: ice, some rest, anti-inflammatories..... blah blah blah. I had seen a little bit about the whole IT Band issue when I was reading all about the shin splints. It's another overuse injury that's very common in runners. I'm just falling apart.....
I put in 2 miles this morning. Lots of walking intervals because of the above mentioned problemo. But movement nonetheless. It was quite windy, but about 68 degrees, so pleasant. Tomorrow is an off day and Saturday's long run is scheduled for 10 miles. Eeeek. Not really looking forward to that since I've done *nothing* that long since the half marathon two weeks ago.
Another source of pain...my NCAA bracket! What on earth?! San Diego over UConn. West Virginia over Duke? USC is out. Villanova and Davidson are in. This is what makes March Madness so fun. I LOVE THIS STUFF!!!! My home bracket still has 11 of the Sweet 16 remaining. My work bracket (*if* we were to do this at work....) isn't fairing so well with only 7 remaining. I'm still waiting for Tennessee to go down. (I was rooting hard for Butler this weekend. Tonight I'm a Louisville Cardinals fan - I never thought I'd say that....) Sweet 16 starts turning into the Elite 8 tonight - can't wait. Bottom line is that the mighty Memphis Tigers play tomorrow night at 9pm!!! Totally psyched. GO TIGERS!!!!
So I have found some new stretching exercises to add to my repertoire. The rest of the treatment is the same: ice, some rest, anti-inflammatories..... blah blah blah. I had seen a little bit about the whole IT Band issue when I was reading all about the shin splints. It's another overuse injury that's very common in runners. I'm just falling apart.....
I put in 2 miles this morning. Lots of walking intervals because of the above mentioned problemo. But movement nonetheless. It was quite windy, but about 68 degrees, so pleasant. Tomorrow is an off day and Saturday's long run is scheduled for 10 miles. Eeeek. Not really looking forward to that since I've done *nothing* that long since the half marathon two weeks ago.
Another source of pain...my NCAA bracket! What on earth?! San Diego over UConn. West Virginia over Duke? USC is out. Villanova and Davidson are in. This is what makes March Madness so fun. I LOVE THIS STUFF!!!! My home bracket still has 11 of the Sweet 16 remaining. My work bracket (*if* we were to do this at work....) isn't fairing so well with only 7 remaining. I'm still waiting for Tennessee to go down. (I was rooting hard for Butler this weekend. Tonight I'm a Louisville Cardinals fan - I never thought I'd say that....) Sweet 16 starts turning into the Elite 8 tonight - can't wait. Bottom line is that the mighty Memphis Tigers play tomorrow night at 9pm!!! Totally psyched. GO TIGERS!!!!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
In case you were wondering
Have been missing my dad a lot these days....I continue to keep him in the front of my mind as I train for this crazy marathon and ask myself "Why on earth am I doing this?!?!"
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
100 MILES!!
Today I officially hit 100 miles that I have run since the beginning of our training in January. I'm sure I've gone over that since I don't track some of the 'runs' that were mostly 'walks'. But I am celebrating today as my 100-mile mark. Ta-da!!!
I put in 2 miles on the treadmill this morning. I actually thought once that I wished I were outside -- who would think I would ever feel that way about my treadmill. But it's so boring. And there is that constant blinking display telling you how far (or how NOT far) you've come. But I got through it with a little help from a Law & Order rerun.
I put in 2 miles on the treadmill this morning. I actually thought once that I wished I were outside -- who would think I would ever feel that way about my treadmill. But it's so boring. And there is that constant blinking display telling you how far (or how NOT far) you've come. But I got through it with a little help from a Law & Order rerun.
My knee was hurting while I was running. What's up with that?
I am accepting the fact that it has taken me longer to recover from the half than I thought it would. It took quite a little toll on the ol' 42 year old bod. In turn, I've had to slow it down these last 10 days which makes it a bit harder to pick up again. I am catching myself thinking that I really want to RUN a large portion of the marathon. Which would be nice. But my goal is to FINISH the marathon. So when I am sidelined, or slower, or aching, I have to just continue doing what I can do, at the pace my body dictates, and keep my mind focused on the original goal.
In the fundraising arena, my total is sitting at $2,821!! You guys are amazing and I am humbled and so appreciative of your generosity and support. I know Daddy would be too. I am touched by the gifts I have received from people I do not know. I received a gift this weekend from another friend of my dad's cousin. A person whom I've never met. But she is cheering me on and supporting my effort. (Thanks Sally!) I also got a donation from someone with no connection to me or my family. She was searching online for participants in the Germantown Half Marathon, found this blog, and made a donation to my Team in Training. I am almost at a loss for words by her act of kindness. (Alissa, I don't even know if you've come back to read more...but thank you!!) I am just so thankful to all of you for your donations. It's an amazing testimony to my dad. This is all about him. And I hope that you know how humbled and grateful he would be. But most importantly I hope every one of you knows that your gift - large or small - makes a difference in the lives of people who are suffering from leukemia and other blood cancers. Each dollar is just one more step toward a cure. You really are making a difference. I hope you know that. I'm crying now, so I'll quit.
I am accepting the fact that it has taken me longer to recover from the half than I thought it would. It took quite a little toll on the ol' 42 year old bod. In turn, I've had to slow it down these last 10 days which makes it a bit harder to pick up again. I am catching myself thinking that I really want to RUN a large portion of the marathon. Which would be nice. But my goal is to FINISH the marathon. So when I am sidelined, or slower, or aching, I have to just continue doing what I can do, at the pace my body dictates, and keep my mind focused on the original goal.
In the fundraising arena, my total is sitting at $2,821!! You guys are amazing and I am humbled and so appreciative of your generosity and support. I know Daddy would be too. I am touched by the gifts I have received from people I do not know. I received a gift this weekend from another friend of my dad's cousin. A person whom I've never met. But she is cheering me on and supporting my effort. (Thanks Sally!) I also got a donation from someone with no connection to me or my family. She was searching online for participants in the Germantown Half Marathon, found this blog, and made a donation to my Team in Training. I am almost at a loss for words by her act of kindness. (Alissa, I don't even know if you've come back to read more...but thank you!!) I am just so thankful to all of you for your donations. It's an amazing testimony to my dad. This is all about him. And I hope that you know how humbled and grateful he would be. But most importantly I hope every one of you knows that your gift - large or small - makes a difference in the lives of people who are suffering from leukemia and other blood cancers. Each dollar is just one more step toward a cure. You really are making a difference. I hope you know that. I'm crying now, so I'll quit.
Monday, March 24, 2008
One. Uno. Un. Eins.
Bad news is that Jordan stayed home from school today with a bad sore throat. A quick visit to the doctor and some Rx and she will be on the mend soon.
Good news is that I ran on the treadmill this afternoon while I was home with her. One mile. Just one. But it's better than nothing. I could definitely tell I had not run in a week. Stiff. But it felt good. And I'm glad I did it. Even if it was just one little mile.
Going nowhere fast
Miles on my feet since Thursday night = 57 (or so it feels)
Miles spent running = 0
We got home last night from a fun, but busy weekend in Nashville. The Opryland Hotel is so big. We walked and walked and walked to all Jordan's events.
My legs were giving me some fits on Thursday and Friday nights. Probably a combination of final recovery from the half marathon, being cooped up in the car driving up there, all that walking at the hotel, and sleeping on a hard, tiny, double bed with my 10 year old who unbeknownst to me has 15 legs and 8 elbows (ouch).
I planned to return to my normal training schedule this morning, but I was just SO SO SO tired. So I'll put in my three tomorrow. I promise. I am anxious to run again.
I will leave you with some pictures from the half marathon.
This is at about mile 4...
Thursday, March 20, 2008
March Madness Begins TODAY!!!
Today is not just the first day of spring.....It's the first day of the NCAA tournament!!!
The first game starts in less than 3 hours. Not like I can watch it, since I'm at work, but I'm just SO EXCITED! I love this time of year. Tigers play their first game tomorrow night at 9pm. GO TIGERS!!!
Things continue to become a bit more 'pain-free' as each day goes by. Just some slight ouchy this morning. We are headed out of town tonight for a church convention in Nashville this weekend. I will miss the scheduled 12 mile group run on Saturday. But to be honest, the thought of running 12 miles almost makes me puke. We will be at the Opryland Hotel which is HUGE, so no doubt I'll get some serious walking in over the weekend. I am also packing my running stuff and will attempt to get out early Saturday morning and try to put some miles in. Maybe by Saturday I'll be able to actually RUN.
In the meantime,
GO TIGERS!!!!!!
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Let's Rock 'N Roll!
Progress I guess if the only things that are hurting this morning are my calves, ankles and achilles.....Still pretty tight. oooooowwwwww. That is really only a small percentage of my body now..... It is looking like my knees are deciding to rejoin the rest of us. George said there would be pain 2-3 days after the race. Today is day 3. Can't wait til tomorrow.
After Sunday's half marathon, I've been reading a bit more about what the Rock 'N Roll Marathon is like. It is going to be *HUGE* and fun! Here are some neat things I found out:
After Sunday's half marathon, I've been reading a bit more about what the Rock 'N Roll Marathon is like. It is going to be *HUGE* and fun! Here are some neat things I found out:
- This year will be the 11th annual race.
- Over 20,000 runners are expected (Germantown Half had 700)
- About half of these participants are running their first marathon (that's me!)
- Over 4,000 of them are members of a Team in Training (hey, that's me too!)
- Fifty percent of the runners are female (well what do you know...)
- There is a live band at every mile and there are themed water stops.
- You can register to run as part of the "Running Elvi" and dress up like Elvis. They are trying to set a world's record this year and already have 50 signed up. (Jodi thinks I should do this...)
- In ten years, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society has raised over $125.1 million at the RNR Marathon. This year alone they expect to raise $12 million.
I hope you will go to the Rock 'N Roll Marathon website and watch the video on the right hand side of the home page. It's only about 3 minutes, but you will definitely get a feel of what the race is all about. Make sure and notice of all the purple tank tops ("racing singlets") -- those are Team in Training members. Go Team!
Only 74 more days!! I am already feeling nervous and excited. I can't wait to be a part of it. I cannot imagine the feeling of accomplishment that I will have when I'm finished. I also cannot imagine the pain I will have... ugh. But I continue to remind myself every single day why I am doing all of this. And you know what? I think he would be real proud of me....
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Is it really 4am?
I did consider it progress when I got out of bed this morning and didn't make any grunting, groaning, or crying noises. I'm better today. Don't get me wrong - I can still feel every bit of the 13.1 miles....but it's better.
When I walking down the block in front of my house, I was charged by a DOG. Where did HE come from? I don't even think I've ever seen a dog at that house. (Jodi, it's the house with the nice boat - do they have a big mean dog?) Nonetheless, he was not happy at all that I was walking in front of his house. He flew to the end of the driveway then came up behind me. I never looked at him but kept on walking. There was one little nano-second where I thought he really might have had my legs for breakfast. But then he made a few little surrendering woofs and went back up to his house. Apparently all bark and no bite. Thank goodness.
Progress made:
I think I can walk today without people saying "Are you ok?"
I am at 67% of my fundraising goal. Yippee!
I do want to run again. Yesterday I did not want to ever run again.
Need to work on:
Final negotiations with my legs to have them rejoin the rest of us.
Get update letter out to my current contributors and my hopefully soon to be contributors.
I went out for a 2 mile walk that was supposed to be a 3 mile run. There were two attempts to run. Unsuccessful. So I just walked. And didn't feel guilty about it one bit. Felt good to just walk and try to get my legs to agree to be a part of my body again. Apparently we are still negotiating. I think they are still undecided. They don't hurt anymore, just a little tight and sore. It was 70 degrees this morning - can you believe that? Very nice. I wore shorts and a tshirt. No gloves, no hat, no layers. Very very pleasant.
Shortly after I got off my street, things just got weird. First a truck passed me. Then (are you ready for this?) there were 2 people in their driveway! Real, live people. Looked as if it had been some kind of 'sleepover'....Anyway, I told them how nice it was to see PEOPLE at 4 o'clock in the morning and they were the first ones I had seen in the three months I had done this. THEN, I saw a woman in her backyard letting her dog out. Where on earth did all these people come from?! I was starting to wonder if I had not set my alarm right and it was actually 6 o'clock in the morning....
When I walking down the block in front of my house, I was charged by a DOG. Where did HE come from? I don't even think I've ever seen a dog at that house. (Jodi, it's the house with the nice boat - do they have a big mean dog?) Nonetheless, he was not happy at all that I was walking in front of his house. He flew to the end of the driveway then came up behind me. I never looked at him but kept on walking. There was one little nano-second where I thought he really might have had my legs for breakfast. But then he made a few little surrendering woofs and went back up to his house. Apparently all bark and no bite. Thank goodness.So enough about today's walk, let's talk Tigers. They are the #1 seed in the south and #2 overall. I love this time of year. I love MARCH MADNESS! Time to get those brackets filled out. Definitely a tough road ahead for us if you look at the bracket but boy are they on fire right now. We are guaranteed some great basketball. Some good potential and tough match-ups. Digger Phelps said AGAIN last night that he thinks the Tigers will go all the way. All! The! Way! GO TIGERS!!!!
Progress made:
I think I can walk today without people saying "Are you ok?"
I am at 67% of my fundraising goal. Yippee!
I do want to run again. Yesterday I did not want to ever run again.
Need to work on:
Final negotiations with my legs to have them rejoin the rest of us.
Get update letter out to my current contributors and my hopefully soon to be contributors.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Post race report from #638
The morning after the day before.....here's the good, the bad, and the ugly from yesterday's half marathon. Some of this will be stream of consciousness, so bear with me....I'm also including a map of the route. So follow along....
My three goals for the race:
1. Finish
2. Do not be last.
3. Finish in less than 3:30.
Pre-race
I was nervous and excited. Ready to get up and go.
Finally decided what to wear. At the last minute added a jacket. Glad I did that.
Gauge almost ate my timing chip. Horrors! I would have had to carry him the whole 13.1 so I could be timed.
We got there about 6:45am and there were already tons of people there. There were some serious runners there. Running around all over the parking lot. We saw Mike F., a fellow GPD'er with Jodi. He was running the 5k. It was cold. Even tho it was 46, it felt much cooler.
Trip to porta-potty. Hate that "oh I've gotta pee, oh no I don't" feeling. Nerves.
Jodi and I went to find the GPD officer who would be driving the tail car. It was Officer Mac S. I turned around so he could get familiar with my backside in case he was tailing me there at the end. I told him to be nice.
Here came the U of M ROTC group. One guy was carrying a HUGE stuffed Tiger. Oh dear. That's what I almost had to do with Gauge.
Start & Miles 1-3
Time to head to our meeting spot to meet George and the other RNR'ers. Jessica & Nicole were there. They were talking about what intervals we wanted to run. Finally decided to just go at our own pace. (Good decision since I never saw them again after the start of the race.) Everybody quieted down for the National Anthem. And then the whole mob of people just started moving. All at once. It was a little bizarre. We were at the 'front of the back'. All I could think of was the scene from the Lion King where Simba is trying to outrun the buffalo stampede. We crossed the mat at the start line and Jodi took off. He cut to the right to go around somebody and then I saw him ahead turning the corner. Bye Jodi.
You could hear talking and such. But you could also just hear running. Feet running. It was kind of neat. I could also hear the ROTC group chanting or singing or whatever you call it that they do. They actually had boots on.....ouch.
Running along. Feeling ok. No pain. Yea for that. I did see Ty & Trenton (my bro-in-law and nephew) on Kimbrough going to church. I waved like a crazy woman - I think he saw me.
A few neighborhood people in their front yards clapping or encouraging or just staring.
5k'ers turned off at this point. Not really a temptation here. I couldn't decide if I felt like I was some kind of super woman or stupid woman for continuing on. Undecided at this point. But I went straight ahead on the half-marathon route.
Most of this leg was up Kimbrough. HUGE hill between Farmington and Dogwood. I walked it thank you.
Miles 4-6
This leg took us from Dogwood to Forest Hill Irene to Wolf River Blvd. At this point, I wasn't last. I was certain there were people behind me. There were 2 girls that were doing a nice run/walk interval too and I was kind of pacing myself with them a little. I was compelled to stay ahead of them. (I believe I ended up finishing between them actually.)
Somewhere about mile 4, a casual Sunday jogger and his 17 year old golden retriever passed me. Nice boost to the ego there.
Up ahead is a water stop - the second one I believe. It was being manned by Diana, a co-worker, and her family. Some personalized cheers, a quick cup of water. Off again.
When we got on Wolf River, there were people who had made the turn and were headed back. I started looking for Jodi. I saw him at about the 5 mile mark. This was about the 8 mile mark for him. We met in the median and gave a quick "Howareyoudoingiamsoproudofyougoodjobiloveyou" and kept going.
Also passing me on the left, I saw Joseph W. ( a guy from church) "Hey Joseph! Good job!" and then I saw fellow RNR'er Wes. Quick wave to him too.
A little gel at this point. Who knows if it helped or not. To be honest, I didn't notice a difference, but I"ll play along.
Almost to the half way point. Hooray! This was at Houston High School. George had stopped off for a pit stop and I saw the water station (those people had become my best friends I tell you - how how glad I was so see the water stations!! I think I told all of them that I loved them.). I thought how odd it was that they set the water stop just in the drive rather than along the street, but whatever. So I trot over, get my water, thank the kids, tell them I love them, and turn back around and head out down Wolf River. At this point, George is hollering for me and pointing to the water station. I thought he was pointing out that tricky hidden water station. What a good coach - concerned with my hydration. "I got it, thanks!" and I kept on running. He *keeps* hollering my name. And this time, so do all the kids at the water station "THE COURSE IS THIS WAY". Oh my - yes, I had run off the course. I was definitely the entertainment for those volunteers I guess. George just said "Where were you going?". Quick turn around and head into the park for the official half way point. I hit this at 1:34:59 which calculates to a 14:30 pace. Nice. Even though goal #3 seemed a bit questionable at this point, I trudge on.
Miles 7-10
Back down Wolf River where it curves and turns into Farmington.
At about mile 7.5 I saw Officer Mac S. driving the tail car on the other side of the street. Not tailing ME. (yea!) He saw me - I waved and flashed him the peace sign. Looking good for goal #2 (Do not be last). All the back of the packers were thinning out it seemed.
There were 2 Laughing Ladies along this part. They were walking and occasionally running. We chatted a bit. Nothing personal Laughing Ladies, but I *really* wanted to come in ahead of you.
Turn into Cameron Brown park. Another water stop. Yum. Then up ahead I saw a man. All by himself. Clapping and hollering. "Go! Good Job! C'mon, you can do it". As I got a bit closer, he cheered even louder. And I screamed to him "I LOVE YOU!!!". (I loved a lot of people yesterday.) He said he was usually a runner, but couldn't today so he wanted to cheer everybody on. Especially the back of the pack where he usually is. There was an *awful* hill exiting the park and he screamed behind me "I WANT TO SEE YOU RUN UP THAT HILL. RUN UP THAT HILL!!! RUN! UP! THAT! HILL!". So thank you Mr. Stranger Man. Even though I know you aren't reading this blog. You were an encourager to me yesterday!
Ten miles completed. This was much tougher than my last 10 - or my last 8 for that matter. Wonder why?
Miles 10-13.1
So only 3 miles to go. I do this every morning right? UGH.
Check behind me for Laughing Ladies. No sight of them.
About mile 10, Mrs. Mike F., wife of fellow GPD officer, drives by on the other side of the street screaming "GO ANGIE!!" Yea.
Mile 10.5, another oasis in this desert - a water stop. As I round the corner and approach it, they all start cheering me by name. How nice. Funny how George beat me to that water stop.....wonder how they knew my name..... Who cares. They were cheering for me.
Longer walking intervals during miles 11 & 12.
I am almost done. Just 2.1 miles to go. I look down at my hands and they are so swollen. They honestly look like little vienna sausages. It was bad. George said what makes them do that? Oh that's what happens right before you DIE.
At about the 12.5 point, I'm approaching the intersection of Brierbrook and Farmington. Another GPD squad car (They were at every intersection. Did a great job of controlling the traffic for us. I thanked every one of them. I am certain I didn't tell any of them that I loved them.) and there was Jodi waiting for me! He had finished in a very respectable 2:05:44 and came to get me to the finish line. I was completely out of juice here. Tried to run. Thought I should save it for the big finish.
Rounded the corner at Farmington and Exeter. Less then 1/2 mile to go. And there's a hill. That's not very nice. I hoofed it a bit and Jodi said "OK let's go". So I headed up the hill. There on the sidewalk were some of my fellow RNR'ers Lindy and Nicole. They were clapping and waving and cheering. Sweet of them to root me to the finish line.
And there it was as I turned into the parking lot. THE FINISH LINE. I saw the little timer ticker thing and it was something like 3:11:54 tick tick tick. I so so so wanted to finish in under 3:12 at that point so I pushed it a little harder and crossed the finish line. I didn't realize at the time that the ticker was "gun time" (which is the time that has elapsed since the official start) and will be a little longer than my "chip time" (which is measured as I cross the start mat and then the finish mat). So my time would be a bit shorter than that. Goal #3 accomplished.
FINISH and post-race
Oh yea! I did it. There were a few race volunteers cheering for me and then taking my chip off. And then, there are Jordan and Cooper and my Mom!!! What a surprise! They had apparently been asking many officers if they had seen me trying to find out where I was. Perfect timing, because they hit the parking lot about 5 minutes before I got there. And Joseph from church came up too. So that was a wonderful finish. With my family and my RNR'ers and my friends and my coach. Hugs and high fives all around.
The Laughing Ladies crossed the finish line a bit later. I went to congratulate them. They said (get this) they were trying to pace themselves with me until I (get THIS) took off and left them. Ha.
I walked around a bit after that and drank some water. I think I ate a banana too. Jodi offered me a bagel but the thought of that was sickening. (I was quickly realizing there were going to be some major stomach issues to deal with. I have found out since then that this actually has a name: Runner's Trots. Enough said.) I realized the more I stood there or walked slowly, the quicker my legs were tightening up. I could hardly climb up in the truck.
We picked up lunch, headed home, took a quick shower, ate with Mom and the kids and shared our tales. Lots of laying around yesterday. Some napping but not much. We were moving very slowly. My knees felt like they were broken. They just would not bend. It just hurt to move.
We limped into church last night (Our legs really tightenened up during the sermon. When we had to stand and sing Jodi and I just looked at each other. OWWW.)
Official times were posted apparently while we were at church. This is how I fared:
Miscellaneous thoughts:
Germantown has *LOTS* of hills.
George says the full marathon is twice as long as the half. I really want to question his math. But he *is* the numbers guy... Right now, even though I know I will do it, I just question how that whole experience will be and how I will feel. I need to start checking what San Diego hospitals take my insurance....
Way back on January 26, I did my first group run of three miles. Only three miles. (Who would ever think I would say "only" three miles.) I was so excited by that accomplishment. And I went on to run 7 and 10 and now 13.1. I don't know how I did any of that. But I'll keep doing it and eventually run 26.2.
I was supposed to cross train today. I didn't. I slept in. And didn't even feel guilty about it. I didn't even think twice about it. Maybe tonight I'll do some stretches on the ball. That will probably feel good.
And, according to the training schedule, I'm supposed to run 3 miles tomorrow. I can't even bear the thought of it right now.
Through all of this - all 13.1 miles of it - I never had any pain. Nothing ever hurt. No "itis". Nothing. I was so glad for that. I am certain that if I had not backed off a few weeks ago, that I would not have been able to do the half marathon. I was tired and exhausted and, at the end, had no gas left in my tank. But never hurt. Amazing.
A congrats email from George this morning:
A super big CONGRATULATIONS for completion, I repeat COMPLETION, of the Germantown Half Marathon. Each of you did a superb job, with finishes by all, and in very respectable times: 2:39 and change to 3:11 and change, even though we really did not care what time we finished. But all of you pushed through what were some very challenging points, whether it was the uphills at the most inopportune places, or soreness or pain from one end of your lower body to the other, or just plum worn out tired, you did it! Hopefully none of you has any lingering pains and aches, except the expected soreness which should subside in 2 or 3 days. And the medical experts say that much of the soreness is actually the tiny fibers in your muscles rebuilding, and they rebuild stronger than before, allowing you to push even further going forward! Now, isn't that a pleasant thought? Congratulations RNR'ers!
So, if anybody is still reading after that long saga, that is the story of my first half marathon. I ran a half marathon. I accomplished all three of my goals. And lived to tell about it!
My three goals for the race:
1. Finish
2. Do not be last.
3. Finish in less than 3:30.
Pre-race
I was nervous and excited. Ready to get up and go.
Finally decided what to wear. At the last minute added a jacket. Glad I did that.
Gauge almost ate my timing chip. Horrors! I would have had to carry him the whole 13.1 so I could be timed.
We got there about 6:45am and there were already tons of people there. There were some serious runners there. Running around all over the parking lot. We saw Mike F., a fellow GPD'er with Jodi. He was running the 5k. It was cold. Even tho it was 46, it felt much cooler.
Trip to porta-potty. Hate that "oh I've gotta pee, oh no I don't" feeling. Nerves.
Jodi and I went to find the GPD officer who would be driving the tail car. It was Officer Mac S. I turned around so he could get familiar with my backside in case he was tailing me there at the end. I told him to be nice.
Here came the U of M ROTC group. One guy was carrying a HUGE stuffed Tiger. Oh dear. That's what I almost had to do with Gauge.
Start & Miles 1-3
Time to head to our meeting spot to meet George and the other RNR'ers. Jessica & Nicole were there. They were talking about what intervals we wanted to run. Finally decided to just go at our own pace. (Good decision since I never saw them again after the start of the race.) Everybody quieted down for the National Anthem. And then the whole mob of people just started moving. All at once. It was a little bizarre. We were at the 'front of the back'. All I could think of was the scene from the Lion King where Simba is trying to outrun the buffalo stampede. We crossed the mat at the start line and Jodi took off. He cut to the right to go around somebody and then I saw him ahead turning the corner. Bye Jodi.
You could hear talking and such. But you could also just hear running. Feet running. It was kind of neat. I could also hear the ROTC group chanting or singing or whatever you call it that they do. They actually had boots on.....ouch.
Running along. Feeling ok. No pain. Yea for that. I did see Ty & Trenton (my bro-in-law and nephew) on Kimbrough going to church. I waved like a crazy woman - I think he saw me.
A few neighborhood people in their front yards clapping or encouraging or just staring.
5k'ers turned off at this point. Not really a temptation here. I couldn't decide if I felt like I was some kind of super woman or stupid woman for continuing on. Undecided at this point. But I went straight ahead on the half-marathon route.
Most of this leg was up Kimbrough. HUGE hill between Farmington and Dogwood. I walked it thank you.
Miles 4-6
This leg took us from Dogwood to Forest Hill Irene to Wolf River Blvd. At this point, I wasn't last. I was certain there were people behind me. There were 2 girls that were doing a nice run/walk interval too and I was kind of pacing myself with them a little. I was compelled to stay ahead of them. (I believe I ended up finishing between them actually.)
Somewhere about mile 4, a casual Sunday jogger and his 17 year old golden retriever passed me. Nice boost to the ego there.
Up ahead is a water stop - the second one I believe. It was being manned by Diana, a co-worker, and her family. Some personalized cheers, a quick cup of water. Off again.
When we got on Wolf River, there were people who had made the turn and were headed back. I started looking for Jodi. I saw him at about the 5 mile mark. This was about the 8 mile mark for him. We met in the median and gave a quick "Howareyoudoingiamsoproudofyougoodjobiloveyou" and kept going.
Also passing me on the left, I saw Joseph W. ( a guy from church) "Hey Joseph! Good job!" and then I saw fellow RNR'er Wes. Quick wave to him too.
A little gel at this point. Who knows if it helped or not. To be honest, I didn't notice a difference, but I"ll play along.
Almost to the half way point. Hooray! This was at Houston High School. George had stopped off for a pit stop and I saw the water station (those people had become my best friends I tell you - how how glad I was so see the water stations!! I think I told all of them that I loved them.). I thought how odd it was that they set the water stop just in the drive rather than along the street, but whatever. So I trot over, get my water, thank the kids, tell them I love them, and turn back around and head out down Wolf River. At this point, George is hollering for me and pointing to the water station. I thought he was pointing out that tricky hidden water station. What a good coach - concerned with my hydration. "I got it, thanks!" and I kept on running. He *keeps* hollering my name. And this time, so do all the kids at the water station "THE COURSE IS THIS WAY". Oh my - yes, I had run off the course. I was definitely the entertainment for those volunteers I guess. George just said "Where were you going?". Quick turn around and head into the park for the official half way point. I hit this at 1:34:59 which calculates to a 14:30 pace. Nice. Even though goal #3 seemed a bit questionable at this point, I trudge on.
Miles 7-10
Back down Wolf River where it curves and turns into Farmington.
At about mile 7.5 I saw Officer Mac S. driving the tail car on the other side of the street. Not tailing ME. (yea!) He saw me - I waved and flashed him the peace sign. Looking good for goal #2 (Do not be last). All the back of the packers were thinning out it seemed.
There were 2 Laughing Ladies along this part. They were walking and occasionally running. We chatted a bit. Nothing personal Laughing Ladies, but I *really* wanted to come in ahead of you.
Turn into Cameron Brown park. Another water stop. Yum. Then up ahead I saw a man. All by himself. Clapping and hollering. "Go! Good Job! C'mon, you can do it". As I got a bit closer, he cheered even louder. And I screamed to him "I LOVE YOU!!!". (I loved a lot of people yesterday.) He said he was usually a runner, but couldn't today so he wanted to cheer everybody on. Especially the back of the pack where he usually is. There was an *awful* hill exiting the park and he screamed behind me "I WANT TO SEE YOU RUN UP THAT HILL. RUN UP THAT HILL!!! RUN! UP! THAT! HILL!". So thank you Mr. Stranger Man. Even though I know you aren't reading this blog. You were an encourager to me yesterday!
Ten miles completed. This was much tougher than my last 10 - or my last 8 for that matter. Wonder why?
Miles 10-13.1
So only 3 miles to go. I do this every morning right? UGH.
Check behind me for Laughing Ladies. No sight of them.
About mile 10, Mrs. Mike F., wife of fellow GPD officer, drives by on the other side of the street screaming "GO ANGIE!!" Yea.
Mile 10.5, another oasis in this desert - a water stop. As I round the corner and approach it, they all start cheering me by name. How nice. Funny how George beat me to that water stop.....wonder how they knew my name..... Who cares. They were cheering for me.
Longer walking intervals during miles 11 & 12.
I am almost done. Just 2.1 miles to go. I look down at my hands and they are so swollen. They honestly look like little vienna sausages. It was bad. George said what makes them do that? Oh that's what happens right before you DIE.
At about the 12.5 point, I'm approaching the intersection of Brierbrook and Farmington. Another GPD squad car (They were at every intersection. Did a great job of controlling the traffic for us. I thanked every one of them. I am certain I didn't tell any of them that I loved them.) and there was Jodi waiting for me! He had finished in a very respectable 2:05:44 and came to get me to the finish line. I was completely out of juice here. Tried to run. Thought I should save it for the big finish.
Rounded the corner at Farmington and Exeter. Less then 1/2 mile to go. And there's a hill. That's not very nice. I hoofed it a bit and Jodi said "OK let's go". So I headed up the hill. There on the sidewalk were some of my fellow RNR'ers Lindy and Nicole. They were clapping and waving and cheering. Sweet of them to root me to the finish line.
And there it was as I turned into the parking lot. THE FINISH LINE. I saw the little timer ticker thing and it was something like 3:11:54 tick tick tick. I so so so wanted to finish in under 3:12 at that point so I pushed it a little harder and crossed the finish line. I didn't realize at the time that the ticker was "gun time" (which is the time that has elapsed since the official start) and will be a little longer than my "chip time" (which is measured as I cross the start mat and then the finish mat). So my time would be a bit shorter than that. Goal #3 accomplished.
FINISH and post-race
Oh yea! I did it. There were a few race volunteers cheering for me and then taking my chip off. And then, there are Jordan and Cooper and my Mom!!! What a surprise! They had apparently been asking many officers if they had seen me trying to find out where I was. Perfect timing, because they hit the parking lot about 5 minutes before I got there. And Joseph from church came up too. So that was a wonderful finish. With my family and my RNR'ers and my friends and my coach. Hugs and high fives all around.
The Laughing Ladies crossed the finish line a bit later. I went to congratulate them. They said (get this) they were trying to pace themselves with me until I (get THIS) took off and left them. Ha.
I walked around a bit after that and drank some water. I think I ate a banana too. Jodi offered me a bagel but the thought of that was sickening. (I was quickly realizing there were going to be some major stomach issues to deal with. I have found out since then that this actually has a name: Runner's Trots. Enough said.) I realized the more I stood there or walked slowly, the quicker my legs were tightening up. I could hardly climb up in the truck.
We picked up lunch, headed home, took a quick shower, ate with Mom and the kids and shared our tales. Lots of laying around yesterday. Some napping but not much. We were moving very slowly. My knees felt like they were broken. They just would not bend. It just hurt to move.
We limped into church last night (Our legs really tightenened up during the sermon. When we had to stand and sing Jodi and I just looked at each other. OWWW.)
Official times were posted apparently while we were at church. This is how I fared:
- 3:11:19 (last finisher came in at 3:56:54)
- average 14:35 mile
- finished 692nd out of 707 finishers (there were at least 10 that didn't finish, but they don't count in this total)
- 302nd out of 312 women
Miscellaneous thoughts:
Germantown has *LOTS* of hills.
George says the full marathon is twice as long as the half. I really want to question his math. But he *is* the numbers guy... Right now, even though I know I will do it, I just question how that whole experience will be and how I will feel. I need to start checking what San Diego hospitals take my insurance....
Way back on January 26, I did my first group run of three miles. Only three miles. (Who would ever think I would say "only" three miles.) I was so excited by that accomplishment. And I went on to run 7 and 10 and now 13.1. I don't know how I did any of that. But I'll keep doing it and eventually run 26.2.
I was supposed to cross train today. I didn't. I slept in. And didn't even feel guilty about it. I didn't even think twice about it. Maybe tonight I'll do some stretches on the ball. That will probably feel good.
And, according to the training schedule, I'm supposed to run 3 miles tomorrow. I can't even bear the thought of it right now.
Through all of this - all 13.1 miles of it - I never had any pain. Nothing ever hurt. No "itis". Nothing. I was so glad for that. I am certain that if I had not backed off a few weeks ago, that I would not have been able to do the half marathon. I was tired and exhausted and, at the end, had no gas left in my tank. But never hurt. Amazing.
A congrats email from George this morning:
A super big CONGRATULATIONS for completion, I repeat COMPLETION, of the Germantown Half Marathon. Each of you did a superb job, with finishes by all, and in very respectable times: 2:39 and change to 3:11 and change, even though we really did not care what time we finished. But all of you pushed through what were some very challenging points, whether it was the uphills at the most inopportune places, or soreness or pain from one end of your lower body to the other, or just plum worn out tired, you did it! Hopefully none of you has any lingering pains and aches, except the expected soreness which should subside in 2 or 3 days. And the medical experts say that much of the soreness is actually the tiny fibers in your muscles rebuilding, and they rebuild stronger than before, allowing you to push even further going forward! Now, isn't that a pleasant thought? Congratulations RNR'ers!
So, if anybody is still reading after that long saga, that is the story of my first half marathon. I ran a half marathon. I accomplished all three of my goals. And lived to tell about it!
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Whew! We did it!!!
Full race report tomorrow, but here are our results:
Jodi
2:05:44
428th overall
Angie
3:11:19
692th overall
707 total runners
I wasn't last.
I FINISHED!!!!
We are *so* tired. My knees will NOT BEND. *OUCH* It was a trying, but rewarding day. But we did it.
Details tomorrow.
I RAN A HALF MARATHON TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Saturday, March 15, 2008
One more day
Kind of a quiet day today.
I watched the MIGHTY TIGERS win the C-USA tourny. WOW! They looked GREAT. Nice to hear some national media finally saying some things about us. Did Greg Gumbel actually say "This team has not been getting the attention they deserve." We were very impressive today. Our bench is so deep - it definitely makes us hard to beat. Tomorrow is Selection Sunday. I'll be stunned if we don't get a #1 seed. GO TIGERS!
I went to pick up our race packets and I even took a little nap. I'm making some tortellini soup for dinner. We'll have our own pre-race pasta party I guess....
The kids are spending the night at mom's so we can get to bed early and get up early tomorrow. I'm hoping for a good night's rest. Jodi and I both dreamed about the race last night....
Friday, March 14, 2008
A message from Julie the Mentor
Julie won't be able to be with us this weekend at the G'town Half. She is headed to Guatemala on a mission trip. She sent us a good luck email. Here's a highlight:
For those who are running this Sunday in the G'town Half...I am very excited for you! Please enjoy this, please learn lots from it if you have never done anything like this before, and go be a Rock Star!
Run strong...remember, after this weekend, you are halfway there!
For those who are running this Sunday in the G'town Half...I am very excited for you! Please enjoy this, please learn lots from it if you have never done anything like this before, and go be a Rock Star!
Run strong...remember, after this weekend, you are halfway there!
My mind has already started the race
50 thoughts going on in my head right now about Sunday's half-marathon......
1. I'm excited.
2. I'm nervous.
3. What if I can't finish?
4. What if I'm last?
5. Somebody has to be last.
6. Jodi assures me I won't be last.
7. Maybe I should put a tag on my shirt for the GPD "Mrs. Captain Whitfield"
8. I ran 10 miles and did that. This is only 3 more.
9. I felt like I was gonna' die after running 10. This is 3 more.
10. What am I going to wear?
11. I need something with a pocket for my gels.
12. I need to charge my iPod.
13. I need to charge Jodi's iPod.
14. I hope Jodi feels better (he has an upper respiratory infection).
15. He's afraid I might beat him if he doesn't feel better.
16. Wouldn't that be funny?
17. What will my time be?
18. I hope I can finish faster than 3:30.
19. Think I could do it in 3:00?
20. Will my legs hold up?
21. Hope my calves don't flare up.
22. Weather is supposed to be nice. 40's at start time. Winds 5-10mph from the north.
23. I have bugged Ron Childers all week about the forecast. He is nice to tolerate me.
24. He said "This is what you have trained for."
25. Have I trained for this?
26. It doesn't really seem like I'm *training*
27. This is half of what I will do in June. YIKES!
28. I need to take a camera for post-race pics.
29. Everybody has been excited for me and wishing me luck and stuff. Nice.
30. Why are my calves burning a little bit this morning?
31. I wore higher heels yesterday.
32. Mistake.
33. Go get the ice.
34. What am I going to eat today and tomorrow to 'carbo-load'?
35. Surely I won't be T.H.E. L.A.S.T. to finish.
36. I'll be ok with that if I am.
37. No I won't.
38. I wonder if Mom & the kids will see me on their way to church?
39. I need to stretch today and tomorrow.
40. 48 hours from right now, I'll be running.
41. I'm glad it's not going to be too warm or raining.
42. I *cannot* forget my chapstick.
43. My playlist on my iPod is 5.8 hours.
44. At least I won't listen to it all the way through.
45. See #10.
46. What if I can't sleep on Saturday night?
47. I never thought I would run a half-marathon before I ran my marathon.
48. I'M RUNNING A HALF-MARATHON ON SUNDAY!!!
49. See #2.
50. See #1.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Morning for Miracles
Training schedule called for 6 miles today. My time frame and my C.C.C. (current calf condition) called for 3 miles. I sure don't want to press myself right now when I'm making such progress and then louse up Sunday's 1/2. Very pleasant morning today. It was 61 and no wind. I actually wore short sleeves. Nice.
I can sum up my first 1.5 miles like this:
It just STUNK. My calves were tight. I was S.L.O.W. It just wasn't happening. I kept walking, but even that felt slow. Not a lot of running. Lots of stretching. Pressing on.
Then, something AMAZING happened. I saw this:
Coming right toward me! IT WAS A CAR! Oh hello car!!! It was a person!!! And it wasn't even the paper boy. I'm sure he thought "what a nutcase out here at 4:15 am". I flashed him my peace sign and kept moving.
I hit the halfway point and stretched out AGAIN. Then, miracle #2. I turned into this:
OK - maybe not speedy, but just play along.... I ran my last 1.5 only stopping one time. It felt super duper. And my average mile during my last half was (drumroll here) 13:18!!! WOWIE! I could not even believe it. I am really happy with the way that turned out.
I know that's not fast. But it is fastER for me. And to think that just a few weeks ago, I was hurting so bad and on the DL. Now there is almost no pain in my shins like before. And once the tightness gets worked out of my calves, I'm apparently good to go. So yea for me!
On another note, long story, but I found out that the three-legged dog that almost lapped me at the lake a few weeks ago (remember that one?) belongs to one of my doctors here. Small world. Dr. S. made a generous donation to my effort and he is also running the Germantown Half. I was thanking him and talking to him this morning about all of it and he explained that the course actually doubles back rather than making a big loop, so eventually, every one who is ahead of me, will pass me going the other way toward the finish. Does that make sense? What I'm trying to say is that Jodi will come back by me at some point (as will about 650 other people), so I'll see him during the race, not just at the start line. Sweet.
Progress made:
My pace is quickening!
My fundraising total is growing!
My 'itis' is improving!
Need to work on:
Getting everything ready for Sunday. Altho I'm not sure what I need to do. I just feel compelled to 'prepare'.
I can sum up my first 1.5 miles like this:
It just STUNK. My calves were tight. I was S.L.O.W. It just wasn't happening. I kept walking, but even that felt slow. Not a lot of running. Lots of stretching. Pressing on.Then, something AMAZING happened. I saw this:
Coming right toward me! IT WAS A CAR! Oh hello car!!! It was a person!!! And it wasn't even the paper boy. I'm sure he thought "what a nutcase out here at 4:15 am". I flashed him my peace sign and kept moving.
I hit the halfway point and stretched out AGAIN. Then, miracle #2. I turned into this:
OK - maybe not speedy, but just play along.... I ran my last 1.5 only stopping one time. It felt super duper. And my average mile during my last half was (drumroll here) 13:18!!! WOWIE! I could not even believe it. I am really happy with the way that turned out. I know that's not fast. But it is fastER for me. And to think that just a few weeks ago, I was hurting so bad and on the DL. Now there is almost no pain in my shins like before. And once the tightness gets worked out of my calves, I'm apparently good to go. So yea for me!
On another note, long story, but I found out that the three-legged dog that almost lapped me at the lake a few weeks ago (remember that one?) belongs to one of my doctors here. Small world. Dr. S. made a generous donation to my effort and he is also running the Germantown Half. I was thanking him and talking to him this morning about all of it and he explained that the course actually doubles back rather than making a big loop, so eventually, every one who is ahead of me, will pass me going the other way toward the finish. Does that make sense? What I'm trying to say is that Jodi will come back by me at some point (as will about 650 other people), so I'll see him during the race, not just at the start line. Sweet.
Progress made:
My pace is quickening!
My fundraising total is growing!
My 'itis' is improving!
Need to work on:
Getting everything ready for Sunday. Altho I'm not sure what I need to do. I just feel compelled to 'prepare'.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
"Half Marathons for Dummies" by Coach George
Today's post is brought to you by Coach George...
We got an email from him last night with all the info about the Half Marathon. Wow! It was a lot of stuff to think about, but it is really, really great info and I think he did a super job of answering every question we could possibly have about our upcoming endeavor. (He probably also knew that I would be bugging him non-stop for the next 4 days with a million questions so he thought he should just shut me off at the pass!)
I've never even run in a real 5k. I have *NO* 'real' race experience. And my first real race is a HALF MARATHON!?!?!? Regardless, Sunday will be a good chance to just see what it's all about.
It's a long read, but I think you, too, will be enlightened!
OK Half Marathoners ~
Jessica and Nicole and Angie and Wes (I think, please confirm Wes) and yours truly are registered to run the Germantown Half Marathon this Sunday, 7:30 am start time. The info below may be unnecessary, redundant, useless, or not applicable to you. But, I offer it because it generally works well for me, and so I offer it to you to consider or experiment with for the GT Half. They are not necessarily in chronological order.
1) Packet Pickup & Expo - MANDATORY
Saturday March 15th10:00 am to 6:00 pmGreat Hall @ Germantown Athletic ClubEnter from Germantown ParkwayFollow the crowd to pick up your "packet" of stuff. It will likely include some discount coupons (not so important), a half marathon shirt (very important, but not to be worn in the race, details later), a timing chip (super duper important), and bib (also super duper important). There may some other "goodies" too. The packet pickup may involve several different stations, just be sure you visit the ones that have your shirt and timing chip and bib. There will also be some vendor booths with their latest and greatest marathon gear or do dads. Feel free to browse/buy at your leisure.
2) Clothing
If you went out to purchase some new, fancy, colorful clothing for the race, sorry - leave it at home if you have not worn it on 3 or 4 runs. You do not want it to tight, too loose, to rub, to hike up or down, or to chafe. Nothing worse than a irritating shirt when you are out there. You do not want to wear the race t shirt - it will likely be made of cotton (and cotton is rotten for runners) and same reasons, it is not "broken in." Besides, you will want to wear it after you FINISH the race to show off to EVERYONE! Like from Sunday afternoon through Wednesday evening church!Dress in layers, so if you get warm, you can shed a layer, and leave it in a spot for later pickup or tie it around your waist. Temps are predicted in low 40's early morning, up to mid 50's by afternoon. Only 10% chance of precipitation. Perfect for a casual 13.1 miler.
3) Shoes
If you have new shoes, be sure you have at least 10 or 20 miles or more in them. Same rationale as the clothing.
4) Hydration
There will be water and gatorade stops every couple of miles, so no need for you to carry your own unless you just like the added weight and/or flavor. Your call here, but I never carry it during a race, I'd rather use all my energy to move forward. It is not unusual for the water stops to be staged, with water at the front half of the stop and gatorade at back half. This kinda depends on the size of the race. If you drink the water/gatorade from the stops, squeeze the top of the cup to a "V" so it does not slosh all over your fancy running (but broken in) duds. Usually walking thru the water stops is wise. We are in no hurry to get to the finish line.
5) Timing Chip
The timing chip is usually a round plastic doodad about 1 1/2 inch diameter with slots in it. You will receive a cable tie or twist tie with it too, for attaching to your shoe. Attach the chip to your shoelaces, usually at the bottom, not near the part that you lace up and tie. Loop the cable tie thru the slots and shoe lace and then close it. Often the chip envelope will have instructions on how to attach the chip too. I tend to use two (2) cable ties or twist ties, just to be extra safe that it does not come off. The boy scout in me, be prepared. No chip, no time. No time, no record of you having finished!As you cross the start line, there will be a mat with sensors underneath. That is what reads the chip and records the official time that you started - when you cross the mat. There may be one of two other mats along the course, usually one at the half way point which is back behind Houston High School. Be sure to cross the mat here to get your 10 k time recorded. Usually they funnel the runners down so you have to cross the timing mat. Oh yea, be sure to cross the finish line mat too, but you can't miss this one.
6) Bib
You will receive a race "bib" or "number" at packet pick up, usually with 4 safety pins. Attach the bib to the front of your shirt at all 4 corners using the safety pins provided. If you will be wearing several layers, and think you may shed one during the race, attach the bib to the shirt that you expect to finish in. That way, the race officials know you are a registered runner, and more importantly, so the announcer can announce your name correctly as you cross the finish line.
7) Photos
There will be photographers along different parts of the course, especially the finish. SMILE BIG!
8) Foot and Body Chafing / Blister Prevention
To prevent blisters on the toes, I use Body Glide (sport lubricant) first and then a healthy hunk of Vaseline. For me, this is the most vulnerable part of my body for blisters or other painful rubbing. The I put on my socks and shoes. I do not put Vaseline on my heel, as it tends to allow my sock to move up and down if I do. Again if you have chafing issues anywhere, use a lubricant. Body Glide ia available at most running stores. Tere are other products too, I just have been pleased with this one, so have not switched.For us guys, I recommend use of adhesive or foam tape to prevent nipple rubbing and bleeding, from the shirt moving up and down with each step. It is not unusual to see guys finishing a race with blood dripping down their shirt from failure to do this. And ouch, that must really sting! Not sure on the advice for the women and sport bras, I'll let you folks figure that one out.I also use Body Glide along the sides of my trunk under my arms, since the back and forth motion of the arms can rub raw unprotected skin after a bunch of miles. Use like solid deodorant, just lower down along your sides.
9) Porta Potties
There will be plenty at the start, but use early, as the lines will form as you approach race time, and may prevent you from starting with the rest of the runners. Usually they are unisex. There will also be one or two along the course, perhaps every 3 or 4 miles.
10) Race Morning Eating & Hydration
I like to have a bagel with nothing on it to get something in my stomach. Or a Power Bar, or other carbo loaded product. Do not experiment with something you have not tried before a run, as you will want to keep it down. Start drinking water so you have hydrated adequately, but don't overdo it, since there is water on the course. Perhaps 12 or 16 oz max given the temps will be cool. Plus, too much leads to the porta pottie lines.
11) Gu or Power Gel or Hammer Gel
There will probably NOT be any of this provided along the course. If you have come to love the taste and consistency of one of these, by all means bring one or two or three of your favorite flavor. Usually one per hour is a good gauge. Not sure what pace we will take, but if we do 14 minute miles, figure on a gel at hour 1 and hour 2, and no more needed since we will finish at hour 3.
12) Finish
As you cross the finish line, be sure to SMILE BIG. Immediately after someone will place the MEDAL around your neck. Wear this with PRIDE, for as many days or weeks as you wish. Someone else will offer to remove your chip. Let them do so, else pay a fee for missing chip. Someone else may offer you water. Then, there will be tables with water and food. Feel free to partake. But, whatever you do, keep walking for 10 minutes or so after you finish the race. Do not immediately sit down and munch out on everything in sight. If you feel OK to do so, you can munch on everything in site, just keep moving to allow your body to get back in equilibrium. Then some stretching.
13) Post Race
Remind your family and friends that you just completed a Half Marathon, and as such, they are to wait on you hand and foot for the remainder of the day. Take a nap if you wish. Or go shop, or whatever!
14) Lining Up At The Start
The unofficial race rules ask that the fast runners start at the front of the pack, and the slower ones at the back. This allows the least clogging up and tripping and falling over slower runners as possible. We will be near the back. You will find that 99% of the runners will be very polite if they happen to bump into you, or move aside to let you get around them, or just offer a "way to go, looking strong" attabboy.
15) Friday and Saturday
I would take Fri and Sat very easy. Perhaps a 3 mile walk, but no running. Stretch. Save the run for Sunday. Start hydrating with water more than ususal. Eat high carb foods, and ones that will not upset your stomach. You have likely heard of "carbo loading" well, this is the time. Most pre race pasta parties are designed just for this reason. Some folks get excited the night before a race and have trouble sleeping. If you think this may occur, just try to get a good night's sleep on Friday night. Then , even if you have a restless night on Saturday, you will have had enough sleep to not effect your race day performance. And, you are always welcome to make it up via the Sunday afternoon nap (see #14)
16) Experimenting
We are participating in this race as part of our training, to get acclimated to the race environment and atmosphere. We do not care about the time we finish, as we'll focus on LSD - long, slow distance. We're experimenting with longer distances, in what will be very similar conditions as those in San Diego, which allow runners to focus on running, and being catered to by the volunteer staff, and crowd support, all of which makes the running even easier and more enjoyable. We are experimenting with pre race nutrition, hydration, gel, clothing, lubricants, etc. Each of you needs to see what works and doesn't work for you. All in prep for the RNR on June 1.
17) WHERE TO MEET?
I would like for us to meet in one place no later than 7:15 am. We can spend a few minutes stretching if you have not by then. We can start together, but do not have to run or run/walk at the same speed, unless you choose to. In any event, keep it at a comfortable pace.
I think the best place to meet is on the north side of Neshoba Rd at the intersection of Exeter Rd. It will be a block or so from there to the start line, and we'll move to the start line in time for the Mayor's Welcome Speech, etc. Most folks walk to the start line along the middle or south side of Neshoba to the start, so we should be able to meet up quite easily. If I can get a map to attach to a later email, I'll do so.
OK, that's what I can think of for now. If other tips come to mind, I'll shoot them out to you.
SEE YOU SUNDAY 7:15 AM - NORTH SIDE OF NESHOBA RD @ EXETER RD
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Tuesday for the Trotting Turtle
Since I did my long run on Sunday, my training schedule for the week has been pushed forward a day. So today was 3 miles.
The first mile was a bit rough only because my calves were *so* tight. There was only a touch of pain in my shins from the 'itis', so I am really excited about that. I think I have made some great progress here and am definitely on the mend.
I had to stop about 5 times during the first mile or so to stretch out my calves. I think part of this problem is that I am literally getting out of bed, stretching a bit and hitting the road. If I had a few hours to let my legs wake up, this might not be a problem. But, because of our schedules here, I have to get up and get it done early. Anyway, once I hit 1.5 miles, things seemed much better and I trotted along.
Temps were 47 although it felt much cooler when I got started. I wore my hat and gloves and definitely needed them.
My total time was 43:14 which averages to a 14:19 minute mile. So, I'm thinking that perhaps if I had not needed to stop and stretch, my time could have been 14:00???? Or maybe better????? I did push it a bit faster this morning. I read somewhere that "if you want to run faster, you have to run faster." Hmmm. An obvious thought, but maybe I had not thought about it exactly like that.
On another note, I read yesterday that the world record holder for the marathon will probably skip the Olympics in Beijing because of the poor air quality. Read all about it here. His agent said "racers who have performed in damaging conditions have never returned to their best." His current record is 2:46:26. That's 26.2 MILES in 2 HOURS and 46 MINUTES (and of course 26 seconds). And to think I ran 8 miles in just under 2 hours on Sunday.... Maybe I should delete the paragraph above where I was thinking I was running faster. On second thought, maybe it's the pollution here in Memphis that is slowing me down.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Having a ball
Really, really, *really* almost slept in this morning. What's wrong with me?!?! I never used to reset the alarm or even consider it. But these days, that thought it popping in my head more and more. This morning I convinced myself to get up and I'm glad I did. I feel good and now am not struggling with the guilt.
I did the 'lower body workout' dvd on my stability ball. It was quite nice. Good stretches - nothing too strenuous. It just felt real good. I've done some exercising on the ball before. Since the ball is unstable, you have to maintain your balance while you continue to do the moves. So, all this combined really strengthens the abs, lower back, etc. - the whole 'core' thing. Which, I have learned, makes for a stronger runner.
This morning, I'm actually not even hurting. Some soreness in my thighs - but that's from just running. May be the first time I've been "just sore" from running - and that feels ok. My calves feel better this morning than they have in weeks. Just a small amount of pain, but nothing at all compared to what I've been experiencing. Am I turning a corner here on my injury?
Jodi and I wondered why we weren't totally wiped out yesterday like we were last weekend. (He ran his 8 miles when I got home). I know it was 2 miles shorter, but neither of us felt anything like we did last Saturday. Don't get me wrong, I was ready to crawl in the bed by 9pm last night, but really didn't have to struggle with the whole recovery thing yesterday afternoon.
(Jodi did yesterday's run in Germantown on part of the Half Marathon course. He's checking out some of the hills. There is a *HUGE* one on Kimbrough. I chose yesterday to go to Shelby Farms. I never considered putting in the miles on the treadmill (what progress for me!) I thought about running here in the neighborhood, but decided Shelby Farms may be better for me. That is a little bit of a comfort zone for me for long runs. I like being able to just run on a trail that is a bit ambiguous on distance rather than run on a street that is more definitive. Seems so much farther to me if there are street names associated with it.)
So, my week is off to a good start. I feel better this morning overall than I have in several weeks. I will have to adjust my training schedule a bit since my long run was yesterday. I also don't want to push it too much this week since I am apparently making progress. And I would really like to do well Sunday in the 1/2.
I feel good today!
Progress made:
Fundraising total is now $2,486! That's well over half way, but I still have a way to go toward my goal of $4,000.
Ran 8 miles this weekend by myself and lived to tell about it.
Not hurting (too much) this morning.
Lesson learned:
It was hard to take it a bit slower the last few weeks, but it paid off. Learn to listen to my body - and to other people.
Need to work on:
Slowly work back into my short runs during the week.
Continue to fundraise to meet my goal. (Hope you'll consider helping me out!)
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Eight was almost great
Because of the snow, yesterday's group run was pushed from 7am to noon. But we already had plans to go to Jodi's grandmother's in Missouri for his birthday, so I couldn't run with the group. I instead, put my 8 miles in today. By myself. At Shelby Farms. And it was pretty good actually.
There were lots of people there today. It wasn't too cold and the sun was shining - a nice day.
The first few miles were a bit rough. I did some short walk/run intervals. At the magic 4 mile halfway point, it was 57:03. Miles 5-8 were actually pretty good. I had some gel (green apple -definitely the best so far) and ate it (Do you eat it? Consume? Suck down? Swallow? I'm not real sure what verb to use here.) about mile 4, so maybe that was the reason for that. Jodi said that was the point where I went numb. Regardless, those last few miles were really ok.
I took my fuel belt with me today and I was glad I did. Especially since it wasn't the group run so no one had planted water for me along the course. A little dorky, but definitely needed. It's like a fanny pack with water bottles in it.
Music that kept me moving today included: The Outfield, The Foo Fighters, Good Charlotte, Prince and Matchbox Twenty. My total time was 1:54:15 which ends up being a 14:17 average mile. Plus, my split time was the exact same time. Not bad. Not fast. But not bad. Definitely consistent. Remember, slow and steady wins the race!
I don't even feel real wiped out or sore right now either. So that's an added bonus.
It was nice day. It was a good run. I almost felt like a real runner today.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
SNOW!
We got about 5" of snow here at our house. It's so pretty this morning. It was nice to watch it fall last night too. The kids have enjoyed playing in it. Gauge, our white lab, was a little hard to find when he ran into the drifts. It's nice to just have snow with no ice which is what we usually get. Yea for the snow!!!
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