Happy Friday everyone. Day before my 29th birthday and just saw a highly motivational movie called "Running to the Limits". It takes you through a two year period of a man named Alex Vero and his trials and tribulations into becoming an elite distance runner.
Alex is well overweight when he begins the documentary in 2006 and hopes to be able to run sub 2:20 in the 2008 London Marathon. Through his journey he meets several amazing runners including an Ethiopian runner named Mengsitu Abebe. After realizing that Alex can only take his body to a certain extreme, the story begins to turn into a tale of hope for Mengsitu. As is the case of many Ethiopian's, Mengsitu is extremely poor and is attempting to raise money to care for his family. Alex's focus in his documentary turns to helping Mengsitu become an international runner while still developing his own running. I will not ruin the entire story for you but I would suggest checking out the movie.
This is the type of story that keeps me motivated and pushing. Alex had no business in 2006 to think he could run sub 2:20 but he still dreamed the near impossible. The times that he was able to achieve shows that when hard work and motivation meet, they are tough to destroy.
After a very trying and difficult weekend two weeks ago, I'm more motivated than ever to get going again. What was suppose to be my reward in New York turned into a huge challenge in New Hampshire. 2:39 faded somewhere between miles 15 and 20 and turned quickly to 2:46. A tough course but there are no excuses. I call this entry Day 0 because tomorrow I will get back on that marathon train. I will commit myself to training to an extreme few have every experienced. Thousands of miles will be run and in the end I will run with a purpose for 26 miles 385 yards.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Friday, November 2, 2012
48 Hours till NYC Marathon
Morning Bloggers! A marathon in concept is so simple. 26 miles, 385 yards and although at times it may seem like it will never come, there is a finish line. However, the marathon is anything but simple and in this new blog I will discuss some of the many challenges surrounding this year's New York City Marathon.
Let me start by saying that I love to run. If you have read my posts in the past, I hope that is obvious. However, I hate drama and their is some SERIOUS drama surrounding New York this year.
In case anyone didn't notice, a hurricane blew through the area throughout the day on Monday. In reality, we were spared from the worse of the storm. The damage done in New Jersey and New York was extreme at best. The pictures and stories I have heard and seen have reminded me that life is precious and you have to appreciate every day. I'm also reminded of the strength of this nation to come together after a tragedy of this size. In times like these, it doesn't matter that the Yankees play in New York and the Giants in New Jersey. We are all humans and are driven to help those in need.
In the wake of this hurricane is the NYC marathon. An event that has taken place over the past 42 years. Each marathon develops it's own character and although I have never run New York, I have heard of the beauty of the course and the tremendous support of the people of New York. In times such as these, New York has shown how resilient it can be. Just look at 9/11. Marathons are a wonderful time for not just the runners but for the fans. It gives runners and spectators the chance to come together to celebrate a huge accomplishment and for a city or town to show its pride. On top of that, marathons help drive up the economy. Even small town marathons have a major impact on the region, never mind one the size of New York.
In recent days, I have followed updates on the New York City Marathon webpage and various facebook pages. I have watched anxiously to see if they would even put on the event. I woke up Wednesday morning with the impression that this hurricane had come at the worse possible time and that I would not get the chance to run. I even when to the extremes to search out other marathons happening in the next few weeks so that I could make the most of my training. My worries were put to rest Wednesday afternoon when the NYC Mayor, Michael Bloomberg, announced the marathon would go on as planned. New York resiliency at its finest. The marathon was on but the drama was just beginning.
People began flooding the various NYC marathon facebook pages with posts of anger and discuss with the Mayor's decision. People went to the extent to write what felt like novels on these pages. So many people writing that they would not run on principle so as not to drain the city even further of resources (I would like to think everyone involved with the marathon thought of this at great length). The notes of disapproval spread and people even began making judgements on those who decided they would run. I have read more than a few posts calling runners "elitist" and saying that it's "shameful" we decided to run. So many posts from people I never and hopefully will never meet.
I would like to simply just ignore all this hate. A marathon is a time of celebrations as I mentioned before but I'm truly concerned. People have shown in the past how far they can carry threats and yes I do consider these posts threats. It only takes one insane person to decide they are going to prove a point on marathon Sunday.
I will run on Sunday and I have the utmost respect for those who decided not to but let's remember we are all human beings. We differ in opinions and that's okay but at the end of the day we are still human. I believe that by going down to run New York, I am helping to rebuild in a small way. Myself and four other people will be traveling to the city that never sleeps and giving to the economy. We will spend close to $1,500 in a city that clearly needs help and I have contributed to the Red Cross fund. Is it wrong for me to run? I don't believe so. Marathoners sacrifice so much of themselves for one day. Five months worth of training, thousands of miles and one day to celebrate it all.
I just hope that everyone keeps things in perspective Sunday and that we all remember how precious life truly is.
Thanks for reading.
Let me start by saying that I love to run. If you have read my posts in the past, I hope that is obvious. However, I hate drama and their is some SERIOUS drama surrounding New York this year.
In case anyone didn't notice, a hurricane blew through the area throughout the day on Monday. In reality, we were spared from the worse of the storm. The damage done in New Jersey and New York was extreme at best. The pictures and stories I have heard and seen have reminded me that life is precious and you have to appreciate every day. I'm also reminded of the strength of this nation to come together after a tragedy of this size. In times like these, it doesn't matter that the Yankees play in New York and the Giants in New Jersey. We are all humans and are driven to help those in need.
In the wake of this hurricane is the NYC marathon. An event that has taken place over the past 42 years. Each marathon develops it's own character and although I have never run New York, I have heard of the beauty of the course and the tremendous support of the people of New York. In times such as these, New York has shown how resilient it can be. Just look at 9/11. Marathons are a wonderful time for not just the runners but for the fans. It gives runners and spectators the chance to come together to celebrate a huge accomplishment and for a city or town to show its pride. On top of that, marathons help drive up the economy. Even small town marathons have a major impact on the region, never mind one the size of New York.
In recent days, I have followed updates on the New York City Marathon webpage and various facebook pages. I have watched anxiously to see if they would even put on the event. I woke up Wednesday morning with the impression that this hurricane had come at the worse possible time and that I would not get the chance to run. I even when to the extremes to search out other marathons happening in the next few weeks so that I could make the most of my training. My worries were put to rest Wednesday afternoon when the NYC Mayor, Michael Bloomberg, announced the marathon would go on as planned. New York resiliency at its finest. The marathon was on but the drama was just beginning.
People began flooding the various NYC marathon facebook pages with posts of anger and discuss with the Mayor's decision. People went to the extent to write what felt like novels on these pages. So many people writing that they would not run on principle so as not to drain the city even further of resources (I would like to think everyone involved with the marathon thought of this at great length). The notes of disapproval spread and people even began making judgements on those who decided they would run. I have read more than a few posts calling runners "elitist" and saying that it's "shameful" we decided to run. So many posts from people I never and hopefully will never meet.
I would like to simply just ignore all this hate. A marathon is a time of celebrations as I mentioned before but I'm truly concerned. People have shown in the past how far they can carry threats and yes I do consider these posts threats. It only takes one insane person to decide they are going to prove a point on marathon Sunday.
I will run on Sunday and I have the utmost respect for those who decided not to but let's remember we are all human beings. We differ in opinions and that's okay but at the end of the day we are still human. I believe that by going down to run New York, I am helping to rebuild in a small way. Myself and four other people will be traveling to the city that never sleeps and giving to the economy. We will spend close to $1,500 in a city that clearly needs help and I have contributed to the Red Cross fund. Is it wrong for me to run? I don't believe so. Marathoners sacrifice so much of themselves for one day. Five months worth of training, thousands of miles and one day to celebrate it all.
I just hope that everyone keeps things in perspective Sunday and that we all remember how precious life truly is.
Thanks for reading.
Monday, September 3, 2012
A Runner's Perspective
Happy Labor Day all! It has been a great couple months of running since I last reported on the Boilermaker. All capped off today with the 79th Annual Around Cape Ann 25K.
Labor day means "hills" in my mind. There is no shortage of them in Gloucester and Rockport and it seems as if the Around Cape Ann 25K finds a way to run them all. Mentally and physically, Cape Ann will get you ready for any fall marathon because it is that challenging.
Some of the best runners around New England usually make there way to Gloucester to challenge themselves against the elements and fellow runners. There was no shortage of great runners this morning and when I arrived, I was hoping to make some noise in my age group. I had finished as high as 19th overall and 5th in my age group but had never been able to crack into the awards. Today was different, so I told myself.
The pace early felt perfect. Especially in Cape Ann, you have to keep the adrenaline at bay so that you have something left for those last few miles. I went out around a 6:05 pace and maintained around there till about halfway. I had began the race in 5th place and had moved up into 3rd by the time 8 miles were finished. My consistent pace and high ranking motivated me to push onward. Around 12 miles, I saw a nice spectator who confirmed that I was running 3rd. It is always funny when you get out there and your overall standing surprises you so much that you have to ask others.
Driven by excitment at this point, I continued to push. Hoping that I could close in on the 2nd overall runner. Around 13 miles, one of my good friends from Marathon Sports (Amy) was out on the course cheering me on. It felt great seeing her and her boyfriend. At that point in the race you look forward to seeing any familiar faces you can find.
Around 14 miles, the course was beginning to take it toll on me. I gave a quick peak behind me as I cam around a large turn and could see the next runner working hard to catch me. I attempted to stay positive and push as hard as I could so that the gap never got small enough. My effort and consistancy had paid off as I had more than enough to hold on for my "3rd place finish".
Waiting at the finish line was my mom and my good friend's the Mirabile. They began to congratulate me on my 2nd place finish and I corrected them, saying I had finished 3rd. They continued to claim that they only saw one person come in before me but I knew there had been two runners out there in front of me. Confussed and excitted at the prospect of 2nd, I walked up to the timing company to see how many runners they had recorded before me. The answer, "one"! Turns out the 2nd place runner had been unable to finish to the race.
My age group award will have to wait for another day because today I was good to enough to get an overall award. In a summer, consumed by the Olympics. The metal I won today was surrounded by silver. Meb would be proud!
Labor day means "hills" in my mind. There is no shortage of them in Gloucester and Rockport and it seems as if the Around Cape Ann 25K finds a way to run them all. Mentally and physically, Cape Ann will get you ready for any fall marathon because it is that challenging.
Some of the best runners around New England usually make there way to Gloucester to challenge themselves against the elements and fellow runners. There was no shortage of great runners this morning and when I arrived, I was hoping to make some noise in my age group. I had finished as high as 19th overall and 5th in my age group but had never been able to crack into the awards. Today was different, so I told myself.
The pace early felt perfect. Especially in Cape Ann, you have to keep the adrenaline at bay so that you have something left for those last few miles. I went out around a 6:05 pace and maintained around there till about halfway. I had began the race in 5th place and had moved up into 3rd by the time 8 miles were finished. My consistent pace and high ranking motivated me to push onward. Around 12 miles, I saw a nice spectator who confirmed that I was running 3rd. It is always funny when you get out there and your overall standing surprises you so much that you have to ask others.
Driven by excitment at this point, I continued to push. Hoping that I could close in on the 2nd overall runner. Around 13 miles, one of my good friends from Marathon Sports (Amy) was out on the course cheering me on. It felt great seeing her and her boyfriend. At that point in the race you look forward to seeing any familiar faces you can find.
Around 14 miles, the course was beginning to take it toll on me. I gave a quick peak behind me as I cam around a large turn and could see the next runner working hard to catch me. I attempted to stay positive and push as hard as I could so that the gap never got small enough. My effort and consistancy had paid off as I had more than enough to hold on for my "3rd place finish".
Waiting at the finish line was my mom and my good friend's the Mirabile. They began to congratulate me on my 2nd place finish and I corrected them, saying I had finished 3rd. They continued to claim that they only saw one person come in before me but I knew there had been two runners out there in front of me. Confussed and excitted at the prospect of 2nd, I walked up to the timing company to see how many runners they had recorded before me. The answer, "one"! Turns out the 2nd place runner had been unable to finish to the race.
My age group award will have to wait for another day because today I was good to enough to get an overall award. In a summer, consumed by the Olympics. The metal I won today was surrounded by silver. Meb would be proud!
Monday, July 9, 2012
Boilermaker 2012
What an absolutely amazing race! The Boilermaker knows how to throw an event focks. For all of you who have never run the Boilermaker, it is worth the 4 1/2-5 hour drive all the way up to Utica, NY.
The Boilermaker weekend consists of two events, a 15K and 5K race. The 15K is the largest drawing event and it brings in some of the best runners in the world. Why not? It only pays $6,000 to the winner. Not bad for only having to run 9.3 miles. The event is so well organized and professional done. The start is well organized and bib numbers are assigned based on your times. In other words, those who are fast are actually up front and not bogged down by those who wish they were fast. The race covers 9.3 miles of Utica and the community really gets behind the race. 20 water stops, yes 20, over the course of 9.3 miles and more screaming fans then most marathons see. A 15-20 person deep crowd at the finish line! You couldn't quite on this race, if you wanted to. The race fans are that good.
That is not even mentioning the post race party. All the beer you can drink, compliments of Saranac Brewery. Even if you are only a spectator or someone who just happens to wonder over to the finish area, you can still enjoy some free brew. A great post race band and tens of thousands of runners/spectators makes for one great party.
On top of that, I ran a 15K personal best (55:11) just three weeks and a day after my marathon. Not bad, considering how many hills you encounter over the course of this race. I started right up behind the elite athletes and was in awe as they left me behind as if I wasn't even moving. My first mile registered in at 6 even and I was happy that I had kept myself in control and didn't attempt to to sprint after East African runners. The first four miles of this course were a bear and surviving it was the only thought in my mind. After that, the race took a turn for the better in terms of terrain. Mile 5 and 6 were excellent down hill miles. Mile 7 was the last challenge to be had and I managed myself through that mile at 6:08 pace. After that, it was a sprint for the finish. I stopped the clock at 55:11 (5:56 pace) and 103rd overall.
It was an inspiring effort. I had thought that with only three weeks to recover from the marathon that I would be sluggish but I wasn't at all. I had the focus I needed to get through the hard miles and the determination to keep with it throughout the entire race. I passes at least 10 runners in the final 1/3rd of the race, which tells me I still had great strength even late in the race. Above all, it makes me want to work even harder to narrow the gap between me and the elite athletes of the world. They are amazing models of fitness but they are still human. I stood within 5 feet of them and can tell you that they are not robots programed to run 4:30 miles. They are just simply the best of the best and I will continue to work to get myself to their level!
The Boilermaker weekend consists of two events, a 15K and 5K race. The 15K is the largest drawing event and it brings in some of the best runners in the world. Why not? It only pays $6,000 to the winner. Not bad for only having to run 9.3 miles. The event is so well organized and professional done. The start is well organized and bib numbers are assigned based on your times. In other words, those who are fast are actually up front and not bogged down by those who wish they were fast. The race covers 9.3 miles of Utica and the community really gets behind the race. 20 water stops, yes 20, over the course of 9.3 miles and more screaming fans then most marathons see. A 15-20 person deep crowd at the finish line! You couldn't quite on this race, if you wanted to. The race fans are that good.
That is not even mentioning the post race party. All the beer you can drink, compliments of Saranac Brewery. Even if you are only a spectator or someone who just happens to wonder over to the finish area, you can still enjoy some free brew. A great post race band and tens of thousands of runners/spectators makes for one great party.
On top of that, I ran a 15K personal best (55:11) just three weeks and a day after my marathon. Not bad, considering how many hills you encounter over the course of this race. I started right up behind the elite athletes and was in awe as they left me behind as if I wasn't even moving. My first mile registered in at 6 even and I was happy that I had kept myself in control and didn't attempt to to sprint after East African runners. The first four miles of this course were a bear and surviving it was the only thought in my mind. After that, the race took a turn for the better in terms of terrain. Mile 5 and 6 were excellent down hill miles. Mile 7 was the last challenge to be had and I managed myself through that mile at 6:08 pace. After that, it was a sprint for the finish. I stopped the clock at 55:11 (5:56 pace) and 103rd overall.
It was an inspiring effort. I had thought that with only three weeks to recover from the marathon that I would be sluggish but I wasn't at all. I had the focus I needed to get through the hard miles and the determination to keep with it throughout the entire race. I passes at least 10 runners in the final 1/3rd of the race, which tells me I still had great strength even late in the race. Above all, it makes me want to work even harder to narrow the gap between me and the elite athletes of the world. They are amazing models of fitness but they are still human. I stood within 5 feet of them and can tell you that they are not robots programed to run 4:30 miles. They are just simply the best of the best and I will continue to work to get myself to their level!
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Humbling Experience
I had to take a quick moment to describe the wonderfully, exhausting moment I had this morning. Yes, I can run a 2:45 marathon but I have my limits just like every human being. A few friends from Marathon Sports invited me up to Walden Pond this morning for an early morning swim. I thought, why not. I only have to work till 4 today so I can get in my run after work and make it a double work out day.
For those of you who know me best, you know I am a runner and not a swimmer. I spent all my summers growing up on Cape Cod and love the water but I don't just wake up and go swimming, I run. I arrived this morning at Walden and walked down to the waterfront with a few fellow Marathon Sporters. They described to me the different swimming routes I could take and how far each one was. I began the swim with the intention of swimming about a 1/2 mile and in my runner's mind thought no problem. How far can a half mile feel swimming when I can cover a 1/2 mile running in about 2:30 minutes.
Well 10 minutes into my swim, I discovered exactly how hard it is to cover a half mile swimming. I had made it about halfway to my goal point and thought to myself I better turn back now if I want to actually survive this swim. On my way back towards the shore I had started at I realized exactly how tired I was. I felt like the shore would never come but fortunantly for me it did.
Some may look at this as a failed attempt but I believe it was a huge success. The fact that I had the courage to show up and swim with people who had done many triathlons was enough for me. If I had to make an educated guess on how far I saw, I would say 1/4 mile in just over 20 minutes. Not bad for my first attempt and I will be sure to make it back again.
For those of you who know me best, you know I am a runner and not a swimmer. I spent all my summers growing up on Cape Cod and love the water but I don't just wake up and go swimming, I run. I arrived this morning at Walden and walked down to the waterfront with a few fellow Marathon Sporters. They described to me the different swimming routes I could take and how far each one was. I began the swim with the intention of swimming about a 1/2 mile and in my runner's mind thought no problem. How far can a half mile feel swimming when I can cover a 1/2 mile running in about 2:30 minutes.
Well 10 minutes into my swim, I discovered exactly how hard it is to cover a half mile swimming. I had made it about halfway to my goal point and thought to myself I better turn back now if I want to actually survive this swim. On my way back towards the shore I had started at I realized exactly how tired I was. I felt like the shore would never come but fortunantly for me it did.
Some may look at this as a failed attempt but I believe it was a huge success. The fact that I had the courage to show up and swim with people who had done many triathlons was enough for me. If I had to make an educated guess on how far I saw, I would say 1/4 mile in just over 20 minutes. Not bad for my first attempt and I will be sure to make it back again.
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Grandma's Marathon Recap
It was just one of those days. I came to Grandma's Marathon knowing that I had physically and mentally prepared for the race of my life. Even with that said, I know race day can throw everything and anything at you and it did. At the start line, I was surprised at how calm I felt. I thought with all the thoughts of sub 2:50 in my head that I would be more nervous than ever. I cleared the first mile at 6:30 and then the second at 6:20 and began to find my groove.
When racing a marathon, it is so important for me not to get caught up in the moment early because that is usually when I take it out to fast. When I saw my splits rattling off around 6:20 - 6:25 pace I knew I was in control of the race. The first half of the course had a few rolling hills but no huge elevation changes. I was greatful of the rolling hills because it kept me in control early. I went through the halfway point (13.1 miles) in 1:23:32. It was a comfortably fast pace but still a little bit slower then I thought I would be.
Despite, the slower pace early I knew I had a great race going shortly after the hallway point. I didn't panic halfway through at the pace and that alloweed me to run my race in the second half. I honestly believe that the old Dave would have seen that pace and instantly thought I really had to go after it now to achieve my goal time. It was not the case on this day. On this day, I gradually picked it up and got stronger as I went. I reached 20 miles at just past 2:06.
From 20 on I reminded myself of how much I had put into this race. I thought of where I had come from when I first began running the marathon, how I had come to Minnesota to run 26.2 miles and not a foot less, and I thought of my late friend John who would have been 57 this past week. John believed I was great, even when I doubted myself and I know he was watching in on me race day. By the time mile 23 rolled around and I was over the worse hill on the course, I entered that zone that only a true marathoner can experience.
I was exhausted, totally spent, and honestly was just trying to hold on. It is in these moments that special happens. Special moments are made from great opportunities. Not just dreaming it but doing it. I was just running on anything I had left and let my legs do the talking. That meant a 6:15 24th mile, 6:11 25th mile, and 6:08 (my fastest mile of the whole race) 26th mile. After that it was a sprint to the finish and the thrill of what was a victory. 2:45:47.
2:45:47, an hour a half master than my first marathon. 2:45:47, an 8 minute PR. 2:45:47, the time I will beat in New York City. This time is not the finish line, it is just the start. I now believe that anything is possible. More to come soon friends and thanks for reading!
When racing a marathon, it is so important for me not to get caught up in the moment early because that is usually when I take it out to fast. When I saw my splits rattling off around 6:20 - 6:25 pace I knew I was in control of the race. The first half of the course had a few rolling hills but no huge elevation changes. I was greatful of the rolling hills because it kept me in control early. I went through the halfway point (13.1 miles) in 1:23:32. It was a comfortably fast pace but still a little bit slower then I thought I would be.
Despite, the slower pace early I knew I had a great race going shortly after the hallway point. I didn't panic halfway through at the pace and that alloweed me to run my race in the second half. I honestly believe that the old Dave would have seen that pace and instantly thought I really had to go after it now to achieve my goal time. It was not the case on this day. On this day, I gradually picked it up and got stronger as I went. I reached 20 miles at just past 2:06.
From 20 on I reminded myself of how much I had put into this race. I thought of where I had come from when I first began running the marathon, how I had come to Minnesota to run 26.2 miles and not a foot less, and I thought of my late friend John who would have been 57 this past week. John believed I was great, even when I doubted myself and I know he was watching in on me race day. By the time mile 23 rolled around and I was over the worse hill on the course, I entered that zone that only a true marathoner can experience.
I was exhausted, totally spent, and honestly was just trying to hold on. It is in these moments that special happens. Special moments are made from great opportunities. Not just dreaming it but doing it. I was just running on anything I had left and let my legs do the talking. That meant a 6:15 24th mile, 6:11 25th mile, and 6:08 (my fastest mile of the whole race) 26th mile. After that it was a sprint to the finish and the thrill of what was a victory. 2:45:47.
2:45:47, an hour a half master than my first marathon. 2:45:47, an 8 minute PR. 2:45:47, the time I will beat in New York City. This time is not the finish line, it is just the start. I now believe that anything is possible. More to come soon friends and thanks for reading!
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Count Down
9 days from Grandma's and I have a lot on my mind. To many, the marathon distance is incomprehensible. 26 miles and 385 yards is further than most people like to drive in a day but on June 16, for the 18th time, I will attempt to run that distance as fast as I know how. I can't remember a training cycle that I was so committed to and in truth that is because I have never put in this many miles.
In the marathon, anything and everything can happen on race day. The marathon distance is so unique because it challenges the human body to push harder and faster then it should be capable. I mean no disrespect to ultra runners but their is a huge difference in mind set between running a marathon well and completing an ultra race. The marathon takes the unique patience of mixing distance with speed. Go out to fast and you can forget about finishing strong. Go out to slow and you will scramble at the end for your goal time. However, taking it out at that perfect pace. The pace where you go this feels easy but you are still working hard, that is what it is all about in the marathon.
Last night, one of my good running club friends had a shirt on that read, "It is not about how hard you can hit. It is about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward." This sums up the marathon in my mind. Once again you have a unique aspect of the marathon because you are not physically getting hit by anyone. Rather, it is an object (the course) which is taking it blows against you. Even worse is when you realize the course has won and you didn't even realize you were getting hit. However, where their is defeat, their is also victory. Their are the strong, who push through and persevere no matter what the course throws at them.
I have done everything right in preparing for this marathon. Thousands of miles run, huge mile weeks, long runs, speed work, tempo work, and the commitment to get out their no matter how motivated I was. I have mentally prepared to push myself beyond the invisible wall and to keep running even when things become challenging. I have run a variety of distance races and completed them in times that I could only dream about 6 months ago. This does not equal success on race day and I know it. What equal success is taking all this preparation and knowing that no matter how hard things will get, I will keep moving forward towards that finish line.
In the marathon, anything and everything can happen on race day. The marathon distance is so unique because it challenges the human body to push harder and faster then it should be capable. I mean no disrespect to ultra runners but their is a huge difference in mind set between running a marathon well and completing an ultra race. The marathon takes the unique patience of mixing distance with speed. Go out to fast and you can forget about finishing strong. Go out to slow and you will scramble at the end for your goal time. However, taking it out at that perfect pace. The pace where you go this feels easy but you are still working hard, that is what it is all about in the marathon.
Last night, one of my good running club friends had a shirt on that read, "It is not about how hard you can hit. It is about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward." This sums up the marathon in my mind. Once again you have a unique aspect of the marathon because you are not physically getting hit by anyone. Rather, it is an object (the course) which is taking it blows against you. Even worse is when you realize the course has won and you didn't even realize you were getting hit. However, where their is defeat, their is also victory. Their are the strong, who push through and persevere no matter what the course throws at them.
I have done everything right in preparing for this marathon. Thousands of miles run, huge mile weeks, long runs, speed work, tempo work, and the commitment to get out their no matter how motivated I was. I have mentally prepared to push myself beyond the invisible wall and to keep running even when things become challenging. I have run a variety of distance races and completed them in times that I could only dream about 6 months ago. This does not equal success on race day and I know it. What equal success is taking all this preparation and knowing that no matter how hard things will get, I will keep moving forward towards that finish line.
Monday, April 30, 2012
James Joyce then and now
Yesterday I had the chance to run in the James Joyce Ramble 10K. It is a great event put on in Dedham and run through some pretty nice neighborhoods. Last time I had the chance to run in the ramble was 2009 and it has hard to believe how far my running has coming in the three years since that race. In '09 I ran the ramble in a decent 41:35 (6:42 pace per mile). Six months laster I would find myself in Chicago running a 2:57:47 marathon (6:47 pace). That fact would be amazing enough if not for how well I was able to do this year at James Joyce.
Having never gone under 36 minutes in a 10K and looking at my recent times, I knew I should work towards that goal. I really don't run a lot of 10K's and the last one I did was the Patriot Place take on the 4th of the July 2011. It was a wicked hot day and note ideal running weather. However, yesterday I was given excellent running conditions (mid 50's and a cool breeze). It my wildest of dreams I imagined going under 35 but told myself to shoot for sub-36 and take it from there. My first two miles registered at 5:43 and I knew I had gone out smart because I started to pick off good runners quickly. A 5:38 third mile and I was half way at 17:36. I was thrilled at my 5K time because it was only 13 seconds off my personal best for a 5K and I still had plenty of legs to run a negative split. At this point, I started to have thoughts of sub 35 because I felt like I could come back faster than I had gone out. The hardest hill on the course still remained but I know how well I run hills and was ready to give it my all. Mile 4 clicked off at 5:41 and I was threw the hills at that point. Mile 5 was 5:30 and mile 6 5:29 but I still had a lot of work to do. My biggest fear was also registered at mile 6. My watch had beeped the mile split before I actually hit mile 6 for the measured course. I hadn't run the tagents perfect and I then began to worry the small extra distance I had covered would do in the sub 35. That didn't stop me from giving it all and I covered the final distance as fast as I could turn over my legs. In the end, it was a 35:07 and a major victory for me. Despite not getting under 35, I knew I had run to the best of my ability and had been able to cover the second half of the race in 17:31. The time gave me a really respectful 20th overall finish in a race that always yields a strong field.
I'm beginning to believe that something special is waiting on the streets in Duluth, Minnesota. If 41:35 = 2:57:47 in 2009 then what does 35:07 equal in 2012. The answer rests with me but all I know is I'm going to give it my all to see what happens 47 days from now.
Having never gone under 36 minutes in a 10K and looking at my recent times, I knew I should work towards that goal. I really don't run a lot of 10K's and the last one I did was the Patriot Place take on the 4th of the July 2011. It was a wicked hot day and note ideal running weather. However, yesterday I was given excellent running conditions (mid 50's and a cool breeze). It my wildest of dreams I imagined going under 35 but told myself to shoot for sub-36 and take it from there. My first two miles registered at 5:43 and I knew I had gone out smart because I started to pick off good runners quickly. A 5:38 third mile and I was half way at 17:36. I was thrilled at my 5K time because it was only 13 seconds off my personal best for a 5K and I still had plenty of legs to run a negative split. At this point, I started to have thoughts of sub 35 because I felt like I could come back faster than I had gone out. The hardest hill on the course still remained but I know how well I run hills and was ready to give it my all. Mile 4 clicked off at 5:41 and I was threw the hills at that point. Mile 5 was 5:30 and mile 6 5:29 but I still had a lot of work to do. My biggest fear was also registered at mile 6. My watch had beeped the mile split before I actually hit mile 6 for the measured course. I hadn't run the tagents perfect and I then began to worry the small extra distance I had covered would do in the sub 35. That didn't stop me from giving it all and I covered the final distance as fast as I could turn over my legs. In the end, it was a 35:07 and a major victory for me. Despite not getting under 35, I knew I had run to the best of my ability and had been able to cover the second half of the race in 17:31. The time gave me a really respectful 20th overall finish in a race that always yields a strong field.
I'm beginning to believe that something special is waiting on the streets in Duluth, Minnesota. If 41:35 = 2:57:47 in 2009 then what does 35:07 equal in 2012. The answer rests with me but all I know is I'm going to give it my all to see what happens 47 days from now.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Great Running
It has been an amazing two months of running since Houston. Just competed in the Eastern States 20 miler for the 5th straight year and I finally found a way to master that course. The first year I ran the Eastern States, I found myself on cloud 9 because I had found out three days earlier that I would be running the Boston Marathon. This year though, I finally found a way to get through that course in an amazing time. Thank you to the wind for not showing up. I went out right on the pace I wanted and was 10 miles deep in an hour and four minutes. A guy I had been running with for the majority of the first half joked with me that I had three months to my next marathon and why I would want to give such a huge effort. I just looked back at him and said, "what to see what I do on the second half".
It is always great when you can back up your words with actions. I got myself to 14 miles feeling strong and decided that with a little less than 10,000 meters to run that it was time to see what I was made of. Mile 15 was decent at 6:02 and I wondered if the pick up had come to early but turns out I was just getting started.
Mile 16: 5:56
Mile 17: 5:51
Mile 18: 5:46
Mile 19: 5:47
Mile 20: 5:44 (fastest mile the whole race)
I'm proving to myself that I can handle even more than I believe. It is so inspiring to see my 20 mile pr go from 2:09 down to 2:04 in one year. I honestly believe I should be readjusting my goals for Grandma's marathon but at this point I'm going to keep on running and improving.
Keep the faith!
It is always great when you can back up your words with actions. I got myself to 14 miles feeling strong and decided that with a little less than 10,000 meters to run that it was time to see what I was made of. Mile 15 was decent at 6:02 and I wondered if the pick up had come to early but turns out I was just getting started.
Mile 16: 5:56
Mile 17: 5:51
Mile 18: 5:46
Mile 19: 5:47
Mile 20: 5:44 (fastest mile the whole race)
I'm proving to myself that I can handle even more than I believe. It is so inspiring to see my 20 mile pr go from 2:09 down to 2:04 in one year. I honestly believe I should be readjusting my goals for Grandma's marathon but at this point I'm going to keep on running and improving.
Keep the faith!
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Mid Week Report
It has been a great week of running so far. Started off the week right with a huge 18 miles on Sunday. Knowing that I had the Martha's Vineyard 20 miler coming up this Saturday, I wanted my legs to get the feeling of long distance again. It has been about a month since Houston and 18 felt great!
Last night was the famed Mystic track workout at Tufts University. I was in good spirits when I arrived and the workout matched my mood. We ran 2 by 800, one mile, and finished up with 2 by 800 with half the distance rest in between. It was a solid effort and I was really proud of the my mile time (5:19). Splits were: 2:41, 2:40, 5:19, 2:40, and 2:37. Throughout the workout, I tried to remind myself to listen to my legs and not my brain. Sometimes I feel like the brain only limits my speed and if I trust in my legs, I will be able to push harder.
This coming Saturday is the Martha's Vineyard 20 miler. It is a beautiful run along Martha's Vineyard. The weather report looks excellent, mid 40's and sunny. When I first signed up for the race, I thought it would be a chance for me to get back into the flow of things but with the success this past month has brought I believe a good run is on its way. Last year I finished the race 14th overall in 2:09:37.
Last night was the famed Mystic track workout at Tufts University. I was in good spirits when I arrived and the workout matched my mood. We ran 2 by 800, one mile, and finished up with 2 by 800 with half the distance rest in between. It was a solid effort and I was really proud of the my mile time (5:19). Splits were: 2:41, 2:40, 5:19, 2:40, and 2:37. Throughout the workout, I tried to remind myself to listen to my legs and not my brain. Sometimes I feel like the brain only limits my speed and if I trust in my legs, I will be able to push harder.
This coming Saturday is the Martha's Vineyard 20 miler. It is a beautiful run along Martha's Vineyard. The weather report looks excellent, mid 40's and sunny. When I first signed up for the race, I thought it would be a chance for me to get back into the flow of things but with the success this past month has brought I believe a good run is on its way. Last year I finished the race 14th overall in 2:09:37.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Fudgcicle 5K
Another great Saturday morning in Tewksbury. Said to say that I only have one week of the Fudgcicle left. Next week I will be heading to Martha's Vineyard to takle the 20 miler and that will mean missing the Fudgcicle. Glad that I can be there for the final week on February 25th!
It was a really nice morning for a race and after feeling under the weather for the better part of this week, it was wonderful to be able to get out there and run. Jason Bui (Greater Lowell Road Runners) was there and I figured that would mean some good competition. I ran solid through the first mile (5:34), two seconds quicker than last week but to my surprise had very little competition. Last week, around the one mile mark, Dave Dunham (Central Mass Striders) put in a strong surge and I chose to cover it but this week I had no one pressing the pace with me. I clocked a 5:38 second mile, 10 seconds slower than last week. At this point I knew PR territory had gone out the window but I continued to push hard despite the lack of persuit. Third mile clocked in a 5:49, 8 seconds slower than my previous week. Finally, I covered the final .15 in 43 seconds.
I think the cold was having a small effect on me later in the race because my breathing felt off. Still the overall pace averaged out at 5:39 for a 17:43 overall finish time. It was a beautiful day for a run and the temperature was right around 32 degrees, meaning I could go with shorts :) Not bad for February 11th.
I'm hoping for the double dose of Dan Verrington and Dave Dunham to show up on February 25th so we can have a true battle. I may end up regreating that throw down but it would make for quite a race.
Results:
http://www.coolrunning.com/results/12/ma/Feb11_Fudgci_set1.shtml
It was a really nice morning for a race and after feeling under the weather for the better part of this week, it was wonderful to be able to get out there and run. Jason Bui (Greater Lowell Road Runners) was there and I figured that would mean some good competition. I ran solid through the first mile (5:34), two seconds quicker than last week but to my surprise had very little competition. Last week, around the one mile mark, Dave Dunham (Central Mass Striders) put in a strong surge and I chose to cover it but this week I had no one pressing the pace with me. I clocked a 5:38 second mile, 10 seconds slower than last week. At this point I knew PR territory had gone out the window but I continued to push hard despite the lack of persuit. Third mile clocked in a 5:49, 8 seconds slower than my previous week. Finally, I covered the final .15 in 43 seconds.
I think the cold was having a small effect on me later in the race because my breathing felt off. Still the overall pace averaged out at 5:39 for a 17:43 overall finish time. It was a beautiful day for a run and the temperature was right around 32 degrees, meaning I could go with shorts :) Not bad for February 11th.
I'm hoping for the double dose of Dan Verrington and Dave Dunham to show up on February 25th so we can have a true battle. I may end up regreating that throw down but it would make for quite a race.
Results:
http://www.coolrunning.com/results/12/ma/Feb11_Fudgci_set1.shtml
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Great Stew Chase 15K
Such a fun run this morning at the Great Stew Chase 15K. You can't be it for local races. $14 for the 9.3 mile race and a great stew afterwards. Ran very well throughout the race. First mile (5:41) was a little quick put me right in stride with the lead group but thought a little better of that. Cooled if off to an overall 5:51 pace after that with a challenging series of hills right in the middle of the race. Splits are below.
Only about 2 minutes and 20 seconds off the winner, which shows I'm moving in the right direction. Only small disappoint was the guy who finished one place ahead of me took home the last age group award for the age group 1-39. I'm really not that disappointed, more driven to continue to improve.
Mile 1 - 5:41
Mile 2 - 5:48
Mile 3 - 5:51
Mile 4 - 5:56
Mile 5 - 6:14 (tough hill)
Mile 6 - 5:44 (down the hill)
Mile 7 - 5:55
Mile 8 - 5:54
Mile 9 - 5:46
Only about 2 minutes and 20 seconds off the winner, which shows I'm moving in the right direction. Only small disappoint was the guy who finished one place ahead of me took home the last age group award for the age group 1-39. I'm really not that disappointed, more driven to continue to improve.
Mile 1 - 5:41
Mile 2 - 5:48
Mile 3 - 5:51
Mile 4 - 5:56
Mile 5 - 6:14 (tough hill)
Mile 6 - 5:44 (down the hill)
Mile 7 - 5:55
Mile 8 - 5:54
Mile 9 - 5:46
Saturday, February 4, 2012
So Must Has Changed
So much has changed since I last decided to post in this blog. With my running life taking on so much more meaning over the past month, I will be more dedicated to sharing what is on my mind.
A trip to Houston that I never imagined would change my life quite so much. It's true that a marathon can change your life but dealing with a lost of friend plus running 26.2 miles in his memory can change your whole outlook on life.
I have always loved running but with John Kelly's passing my running life has taken on more meaning to me. John may not be able to run here on earth ever again but he has thousands of miles of training ahead because he will always be with me in my heart. The inspiration that has come out of this tragedy seems to be my new formula for success. I have seen times in the past 3 weeks that have turned my head. I have always believed that greatness is within me but it has come fast and furious over the past 3 weeks. A 2:53:45 in Houston (pr by 4 minutes). Two sub-18 minutes performances at the 5K distance, including a personal best 17:23 today. 3 wins and one second (the only man to get to me was Dave Dunham today in Tewksbury).
Running isn't always about the numbers. Some times it's much, much more. I can feel you down here John, watching over me and giving me strength. You must have put in a good word with the Big Man upstairs because all this great running has come faster than it should have. I know the road will not always be so clear and full of so many pr's but I will run through it all and perserver in the hardest of times. Tomorrow I'm off to the Great Stew Chase 15K in Lynn.
Always and Forever
1-20-12
A trip to Houston that I never imagined would change my life quite so much. It's true that a marathon can change your life but dealing with a lost of friend plus running 26.2 miles in his memory can change your whole outlook on life.
I have always loved running but with John Kelly's passing my running life has taken on more meaning to me. John may not be able to run here on earth ever again but he has thousands of miles of training ahead because he will always be with me in my heart. The inspiration that has come out of this tragedy seems to be my new formula for success. I have seen times in the past 3 weeks that have turned my head. I have always believed that greatness is within me but it has come fast and furious over the past 3 weeks. A 2:53:45 in Houston (pr by 4 minutes). Two sub-18 minutes performances at the 5K distance, including a personal best 17:23 today. 3 wins and one second (the only man to get to me was Dave Dunham today in Tewksbury).
Running isn't always about the numbers. Some times it's much, much more. I can feel you down here John, watching over me and giving me strength. You must have put in a good word with the Big Man upstairs because all this great running has come faster than it should have. I know the road will not always be so clear and full of so many pr's but I will run through it all and perserver in the hardest of times. Tomorrow I'm off to the Great Stew Chase 15K in Lynn.
Always and Forever
1-20-12
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