tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72183321123592076292024-03-13T16:57:41.253-05:00Eric's Running AdventuresErichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.comBlogger47125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-50993049672814352682015-04-26T12:08:00.003-05:002015-04-26T12:08:59.507-05:00Trolley Run Race Report<b>What:</b> Trolley Run<br />
<b>Where:</b> Kansas City<br />
<b>When:</b> Sunday, April 26, 2015<br />
<b>Goal:</b> Sub-29:00<br />
<b>Finish Time:</b> 27:06<br />
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<b>Background:</b><br />
Over the last three weeks I have ran two trail marathons, both of which were challenging for different reasons. During the marathon last weekend, my left hamstring became really tight and I ended up with some hip pain due to all the slipping and sliding. Last Sunday I had a little bit of calf pain, but nothing major. I did a short three mile shake out run on Tuesday which went OK, but I could feel my hamstring a bit. I did a five mile run on Thursday and was feeling a bit better. Saturday morning I ran a seven mile run and it felt good, but I felt my hamstring get tight at around the five mile point, but as I picked up the pace a bit, the hamstring felt a bit better. I spent some time foam rolling the hamstring and quads so I wouldn't end up injuring myself during the race.<br />
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<b>Race Morning:</b><br />
All week ling I've been debating whether or not to actually "race" the Trolley Run, or just run it as a tempo run. Well, on the way to the race I put on my race mix CD and decided to race it. I started to warm up a bit and my hamstring was already tight. I spent some time massaging and stretching it, then went for another short jog to loosen it up. I repeated that cycle several times prior to the race.<br />
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One good things about the race, I always see quite a few of my friends there. I was surprised that saw quite a few fellow Trail Nerds at this road race. I guess it just shows how much fun this race can be, it also doesn't hurt that it's a fast course. At about 7:30, I went over and lined up in the red wave, which is for those who plan on going sub-30:00. I chatting with a friend and fellow Trail Nerd, Rick, while we waited for the race to start.<br />
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<b>The Race:</b><br />
I decided that I was still going to race it, but start off a little easy to test the hamstring, then pick it up if I felt it was safe. Sometime around 7:45 the race started. The first mile starts on a downhill, so I try to reel it in and not go out too fast. Before too long, another one of my friends, Jenna, passes by and we wish each other good luck. As she passed me quite quickly, I decided to pick the pace up some and try to hold it. I looked down and realized I was running a 7:11 pace and decided the hamstring felt OK so it was time to pick it up even more. I ended up finishing the first mile in 6:53. It felt tough, but I decided to see how long I could hold the pace. I had the song "<a href="https://youtu.be/u5G1D9XO_C4" target="_blank">This is Gonna Hurt</a>," by Sixx AM, playing in my mild to help me keep pace.<br />
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Mile 2 was more the same. I started to pick people to use as "rabbits" and pull me along. I started breathing a bit harder during this mile, but the pace still felt sustainable. I just kept plugging along. The song "<a href="https://youtu.be/PlR_tE69Xc0" target="_blank">Bring It</a>," by Trapt, was playing in my mind during this mile. It must have worked since I finished Mile 2 in 6:52.<br />
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Mile 3 was mostly downhill and I struggled to keep the pace here. I was passing people, but one of my "rabbits" had pulled quite a bit ahead of me. I dug down and started to pick it up a bit to close the gap. Up ahead, I saw a gal that started in front of me that was hoping to get a 26-27:00 time. I figured if I could catch up to her, I could get close to a PR time. Since I started thinking about the time during this mile, the song "<a href="https://youtu.be/be7iNHw8QoQ" target="_blank">Got the Time</a>," by Anthrax, started playing in my mind. I did end up closing the gap on my "rabbit" and the other gal, finishing Mile 3 in 6:48.<br />
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Mile 4 started and I was really struggling to hold it together. I started fighting with my mind, it kept telling me to walk and I kept telling it to shut the F@*# UP! I then started to have the song "<a href="https://youtu.be/H8O674Nn1rw" target="_blank">Blow</a>," by Atreyu play in my mind. Instead of walking, I picked up the pace and passed the gal that was hoping for a 26-27:00 time, and started to really close the gap on the "rabbit." Just a half mile to go now and I'm reeling them in so i try to find another gear. I see the final turn up ahead, after that we have maybe a quarter mile to the finish. I pick it up a bit, then after the turn I try to kick. With about 100 yards to go I finally passed my "rabbit" and just focused on the clock. I knew I had a chance a getting a PR, but I couldn't go any faster. I crossed the finish line, stopped my Garmin and saw that it would be close, depending on chip time. I finished Mile 4 in 6:33 and ended up with a finish time of 27:06, tying my PR set in this race back in 2012.<br />
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Since I thought I would struggle with going sub-29:00, I am ecstatic that I tied my PR! Then again, I know I could have gone sub-27:00 today if I had just believed that I had the endurance to do it. There's always something to learn from every race, with this one, I learned I am in better running shape than I thought. Things are definitely starting to look up. Now it's time to take it easy and rest up for the big challenge next weekend!<br />
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If you made it all the way through, thanks!<br />
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EricErichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-11655037453512483172015-03-09T13:34:00.000-05:002015-03-09T13:34:13.656-05:00Run Hard Columbia Marathon RR<b>What:</b> Run Hard Columbia Marathon<br />
<b>When:</b> March 7, 2015<br />
<b>Where:</b> Columbia, SC<br />
<b>Weather:</b> 30F-50F, sunny<br />
<b>Why:</b> To meet some awesome friends!<br />
<b>Goals:</b> Mainly to just finish, but I did want to at least finish sub-5:00<br />
<b>Link to Race Data: <a href="http://www.movescount.com/moves/move55387075" target="_blank">Suunto Ambit 2 Race Data</a></b><br />
<b>Official Time:</b> 4:29:15<br />
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<b>Background:</b><br />
I registered for this race as soon as registration opened, about a year ago. I had a decent running year in 2014, with my longest, and most fun race being a 50K in October. After October, I took a little down time and reduced mileage to let nagging issues recover. I had planned on starting training for it December by getting my long runs back to 13 miles, but it didn't workout that way. My longest run in December was 9.3 miles.<br />
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I did make a good push in January, with the first few weeks having long runs of 9.3, 11.3, and 13.5 miles. However, a quad issue, not running related, stopped my training after that. As the quad issue healed, I dealt with a bad case of bronchitis for roughly three weeks. I believe the last two weeks of January consisted of maybe a total of 10 miles, with just about three of those being from walking. Basically, ever time I started to make gains in training, I had either an illness or non-running related injury halt my training for 2-3 weeks. Whenever I started back up, it felt like my cardio endurance was shot. Ultimately, I really only had 10 days of training for the race after I had fully recovered from the effects of the bronchitis. My highest mileage week was the week before the race with 40 miles and a long run of 16.5. Not what I would really call ideal. Overall, I think my average weekly mileage for the year is less than 20 miles/week.<br />
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<b>Race Weekend:</b><br />
I decided to drive to SC and camp out before the race. I've camped out before all my longer races and never had an issue. Well, camping wasn't really the issue this time, it was the drive down there. I woke up at 12:30a.m. Thursday morning and started my drive at 2:00. It was going well until I hit Kentucky. A major snow storm had hit earlier and wrecked havoc on the road conditions. Here are a few pictures to show what I mean:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NYRXsZn4SWA/VP2s0U2rR8I/AAAAAAAABC0/6cWh7Z6dVfw/s1600/IMG_20150305_092110659_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NYRXsZn4SWA/VP2s0U2rR8I/AAAAAAAABC0/6cWh7Z6dVfw/s1600/IMG_20150305_092110659_HDR.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traffic was stopped at this point. Pretty sure this was in Kentucky.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-If8RMDve528/VP2sz8wjrOI/AAAAAAAABCw/8ZmkIMlYsUY/s1600/IMG_20150305_113036391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-If8RMDve528/VP2sz8wjrOI/AAAAAAAABCw/8ZmkIMlYsUY/s1600/IMG_20150305_113036391.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Kentucky while trying to find a way around the blockage of I-24. I'd later find out that it was shut down for about 65 miles.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tfM5y-vjgyo/VP2s0r6JauI/AAAAAAAABC8/wLrgA3ry2OQ/s1600/IMG_20150305_120308124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tfM5y-vjgyo/VP2s0r6JauI/AAAAAAAABC8/wLrgA3ry2OQ/s1600/IMG_20150305_120308124.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was around Mile Marker 8 on I-24 EB in Kentucky. While taking a different road, I was informed they had one lane open all the way to Nashville. This is what the highway looked like until about Mile Marker 65, I was the only vehicle travelling east on the roadway.</td></tr>
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Due to the road conditions, I didn't make it to the campground until around 9:30 Thursday night. Wouldn't you know it, the gates to the campground were locked. Thankfully, after waiting about 30 minutes, a park ranger verified my reservation and let me in. I was then given the lock combination so I could let myself in and out after the gates had closed, it would have been good to be given that when I verified my registration earlier in the week.<br />
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Luckily, the new tent only took me 5-10 minutes to set up, but by the time I got to sleep, I've been awake for nearly 23 hours. Again, not ideal for a race. I managed to get a good six hours of sleep and woke up to the sounds of birds, one of my favorite ways to wake up!<br />
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I went for a short 2.5 mile shakeout run along the campground roads in the morning, then around noon I walked a two mile loop around the campground lake. It was a gorgeous day. I eventually made it to the race expo to pick up my race packet and ended up seeing one of the good friends I was going to be meeting earlier, Jennifer! See, the whole reason I registered for this race was to finally meet some of my good friends from an online running team, the Free Agents, that I've been a member of since 2008. Jennifer was leaving the expo, but parked and came back inside so we could chat some. Talk about good southern hospitality! After I picked up my packet and we talked with one of her friends, we went our separate ways until meeting up with the rest of the gang at dinner.<br />
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I made my way to our pre-race dinner spot, the Mellow Mushroom, and soon met with two other friends from the team, Mallory and Wendy. Shortly thereafter, Jennifer showed up. Us four made our way in and got seated at a booth. We would later be joined by one of Mallory's friends, Joe and then finally our team captain, Susan. The food was good, but the conversation was better. By the end of the dinner, it had seemed that we've all been good friends for a long time and you wouldn't have guessed that this was the first time we've met in person.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ULksUczw5aQ/VP21iAQF10I/AAAAAAAABF8/hezzDlH4_IM/s1600/Pre%2BRace%2BFeast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ULksUczw5aQ/VP21iAQF10I/AAAAAAAABF8/hezzDlH4_IM/s1600/Pre%2BRace%2BFeast.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's the gang! From left to right we have Jennifer, Susan, me, Wendy, Mallory, and Joe.</td></tr>
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After a night of great conversation we said our goodbyes and made plans to meet up pre-race. Since Jennifer had some runners that she was coaching, she was unable to make the pre-race meet-up.<br /><br /><b>Race Day</b><div>
After about six hours of sleep, I made it to the race start after a short 20 minute drive. I mixed up my the Tailwind in my bottles, then headed out to the starting area. Once I left the parking garage I met up with Mallory and Wendy, but realized I forgot my shades in the car and told them I'd meet them at the starting area.</div>
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Once everyone arrived, we had a pre-race photo taken:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Arm4nC5Az9k/VP21iH48bII/AAAAAAAABF4/-T_dOXFpNpM/s1600/Pre%2BRace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Arm4nC5Az9k/VP21iH48bII/AAAAAAAABF4/-T_dOXFpNpM/s1600/Pre%2BRace.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mallory, Wendy, myself, Joe, and Susan</td></tr>
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It was chilly at the start, but didn't feel too bad. According to Weather.gov, it was 30F near the time the race started. Thankfully, there really wasn't any wind. When it was time to line up, Wendy, Mallory, myself, and Joe found a spot in the small crowd and lined up. Wendy and Mallory were running the half while Joe and I were lucky enough to experience the course twice as the marathon was a two loop course. Susan and Jennifer ran the 5K and started 30 minutes later.</div>
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We didn't see any pace markings or groups, but it turns out we were behind the 4:45 pacer. The pacers had a bib on their back showing the time they were pacing, but unlike any other race I had run previously, they didn't carry any flags to help you find them in the crowd. I contemplated moving up as my goal had changed to sub-4:30 with a "if the planets aligned" goal of sub-4:00. Ultimately I stayed put and just decided to run what felt comfortable for as long as I could and just see how the race shakes out.</div>
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Some pictures of the crowd pre-race:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DMZ5xfBynzA/VP2tDRlmUoI/AAAAAAAABDQ/6qQ9jQ3i2F0/s1600/P3070026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DMZ5xfBynzA/VP2tDRlmUoI/AAAAAAAABDQ/6qQ9jQ3i2F0/s1600/P3070026.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">lined up, facing the starting line.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zXigpej_yxU/VP2tMCrPQMI/AAAAAAAABDg/nKJzHWopXJ0/s1600/P3070027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zXigpej_yxU/VP2tMCrPQMI/AAAAAAAABDg/nKJzHWopXJ0/s1600/P3070027.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Facing behind me.</td></tr>
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<b>Race Fueling Plan:</b><br />
Based upon my 16.5 mile run the previous weekend, I made changes to my fueling plan. I still used Tailwind that I carried in my Orange Mud VP2 vest, but I supplemented it with an S!Cap every four miles to ensure I got enough electrolytes in during the run. Since I cramped during the 16.5 mile run, I knew I wouldn't drink enough on the run to get all my needed electrolytes from my Tailwind, especially since the bottles wouldn't be refilled during the race. The Tailwind was mixed at two scoops (200 calories) per 24 ounce bottle. This fueling plan worked great!<br />
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<b>The Race:</b><br />
Once the race started, we wished each other good luck then set off to run our own races. I started moving ahead, then was abruptly stopped when I ran into the woman in front of me because she had dropped her phone and stopped to pick it up, creating a pile up. I started running again, but quickly noticed that one of my bottles popped out during the pile up. I retrieved it without interfering with others, then started again. Definitely not a good start to the race.<br />
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Overall, the course wasn't too challenging, some rolling hills, with one steep hill around mile 11. With that said, I think some tectonic plates shifted and the hills became steeper on the second loop. It surely couldn't have been my lack of hill training, well lack of training of any kind that made it feel worse on the second loop.<br />
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I'm not too much for recalling every mile of a race, so here are my basic feelings of the race as I remember them now:<br />
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The first half of the race I felt very comfortable and never felt like I was pushing too hard. I had worn my gloves for the first few miles, but they felt like they were making my hands colder so I took them off and let my hands warm up on their own. By Mile 5, they were no longer cold. I had originally planned to run two miles and walk 30 seconds, but never really followed that plan. I started that after Mile 4 and then it was more sporadic with my walking. I finished the first loop in right around two hours.<br />
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The following pictures were taken during the first loop:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p0rsUjlLl2E/VP2tPO5nr0I/AAAAAAAABDs/ibpzZ1KtU0E/s1600/P3070029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p0rsUjlLl2E/VP2tPO5nr0I/AAAAAAAABDs/ibpzZ1KtU0E/s1600/P3070029.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 1</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 2</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 2</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 3</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 6</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 11</td></tr>
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The start of the second loop went well, and starting from Mile 15, I started following my original plan of walking 30 seconds every two miles. Instead of watching the time during the Mile 15 walk break, I just walked up the long hill. I didn't remember it being that long or steep the first time around. It really wasn't that bad, but my legs were getting a bit tired. It also started to warm up. I started having the sweat drip from hat around this point and tried to remind myself that I needed to drink more often. By this point, I had drank about 24 ounces. It was a good thing I was taking the S!Caps, otherwise I'm sure my calf would have started complaining.<br />
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After the Mile 15 walk break, I felt good again up until about Mile 20. My quads started to get quite tired and sore. I kept pushing until the 20.5 mile point, but then I had to walk. My quads just didn't feel like they could take any more. Truth be told, I probably could have continued running, but erred on the side of caution and started walking. The longer I walked, the deeper of a funk I put myself into. I had let myself use the excuse of, "this is only a training run and I need to train my walking for an upcoming race" and just kept walking. Then I was sure that I lost the 4:30 time goal and started to get pissed at myself.<br />
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Since I was walking, during Mile 22 I made a pit stop at one of the aid stations since there wasn't any lines at the portapotties. At about the 22.5 mile point, I was passed by the 4:30 pacer. He asked how I was doing when he passed and it brought me out of my funk a little. I decided to try and keep up with him and just talk with someone to get my mind back into the race. When we got to a hill, I decided to walk the hill and thanked him for pulling me along for a bit. My quads were a bit sore, but not bad. I started to think of the wise words from one of my good friends, Danny. What were those wise words, "No pussyfooting." That became my mantra from that point on. I had found my second wind and realized that I still had a shot at a sub-4:30 time. This ignited another fire in me and I started passing people. It felt good. No, it felt GREAT! <br />
<br />
It was also around this point that I started to sing some Rob Thomas and Matchbox Twenty. I can thank another one of my good friends, Brandy, for that one! She shared this gem of a video with me which is always good for a laugh:<br /><br /><a href="http://youtu.be/NsMw10KVVCk" target="_blank">Marathon Thoughts</a><br />
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That also helped to improve my mood. Mile 26 ended by run in under nine minutes and was my 3rd fastest mile of the race. The final 0.45 miles was run at a 7:16 pace, so needless to say I was defunkedified!<br />
<br />
When I crossed the line, Susan was there to cheer me in. It was a fun race, fairly poorly executed, but I still met my sub-4:30 goal. One of these years, I'll actually run a marathon when I am truly trained for it. Well, maybe. :)<br />
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The following pictures were taken during the second loop:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aczENLMSnxc/VP2tnP8E9iI/AAAAAAAABEY/IOwakrEgaSA/s1600/P3070041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aczENLMSnxc/VP2tnP8E9iI/AAAAAAAABEY/IOwakrEgaSA/s1600/P3070041.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 14</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FiOyBZWPOPQ/VP2tsUcjzyI/AAAAAAAABEg/VJykvVSev5Y/s1600/P3070042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FiOyBZWPOPQ/VP2tsUcjzyI/AAAAAAAABEg/VJykvVSev5Y/s1600/P3070042.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 14</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VCLRzZLsn4A/VP2tw2VwE9I/AAAAAAAABEo/AEaetXBy86E/s1600/P3070043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VCLRzZLsn4A/VP2tw2VwE9I/AAAAAAAABEo/AEaetXBy86E/s1600/P3070043.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 15</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Y2fWwIj4i4/VP2t2ZvlbQI/AAAAAAAABEw/tbdO4PuycT8/s1600/P3070044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Y2fWwIj4i4/VP2t2ZvlbQI/AAAAAAAABEw/tbdO4PuycT8/s1600/P3070044.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 16</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rztqokc2QX0/VP2t6ugDRjI/AAAAAAAABE4/f9A_2D_3ILU/s1600/P3070045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rztqokc2QX0/VP2t6ugDRjI/AAAAAAAABE4/f9A_2D_3ILU/s1600/P3070045.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 16</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kOrTmzHS5h0/VP2uAk1L5AI/AAAAAAAABFA/FAE2bdYvplw/s1600/P3070046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kOrTmzHS5h0/VP2uAk1L5AI/AAAAAAAABFA/FAE2bdYvplw/s1600/P3070046.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 16</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mpxeppq-qEg/VP2uFwq99EI/AAAAAAAABFI/QJy83wHAtnY/s1600/P3070047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mpxeppq-qEg/VP2uFwq99EI/AAAAAAAABFI/QJy83wHAtnY/s1600/P3070047.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 16</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PWcarM28Xq8/VP2uJxDJzfI/AAAAAAAABFQ/sY_fiSpp3m0/s1600/P3070048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PWcarM28Xq8/VP2uJxDJzfI/AAAAAAAABFQ/sY_fiSpp3m0/s1600/P3070048.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 17</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-beLvoAxRGy8/VP2uP-Js2NI/AAAAAAAABFY/1PrfDfBpmuM/s1600/P3070049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-beLvoAxRGy8/VP2uP-Js2NI/AAAAAAAABFY/1PrfDfBpmuM/s1600/P3070049.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 19</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x6IBNqy_VsU/VP2uTnKJW-I/AAAAAAAABFg/Z7QBz296gsM/s1600/P3070050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x6IBNqy_VsU/VP2uTnKJW-I/AAAAAAAABFg/Z7QBz296gsM/s1600/P3070050.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 19</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KoerEe_NIqo/VP2uUigWpcI/AAAAAAAABFk/dMDb7rig9d4/s1600/P3070051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KoerEe_NIqo/VP2uUigWpcI/AAAAAAAABFk/dMDb7rig9d4/s1600/P3070051.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile 20</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I had hoped that they would have a massage booth at the end of the race, but it turned out that it was only for those needing medical assistance. Instead, I walked around a bit, stretched the quads, then about 10 minutes later I was finally able to sit down on the curb. I was shocked that I still hadn't started to cramp up. I waited to cheer in Joe, then we checked our finish times. All they showed was gun time, but it still showed sub-4:30 for me, 4:29:57. I'll take it!</div>
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After getting cleaned up, Joe and I decided to walk to our post-race lunch meeting spot, Thirsty Fellow. I had thought it was only going to be a few blocks, but it was probably close to two miles away. Oh well, it's good to walk after a race to keep the muscles from tightening up, right. </div>
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The gals were texting us wondering where the heck we were. They didn't realize we decided to walk there. LOL Thankfully, Jennifer was kind enough to shuttle us back so we didn't have to walk. Thanks, Jennifer!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wXrgpCpCGWc/VP21iHaZQqI/AAAAAAAABGA/8Oa61lEiPEQ/s1600/After%2BRace%2BFeast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wXrgpCpCGWc/VP21iHaZQqI/AAAAAAAABGA/8Oa61lEiPEQ/s1600/After%2BRace%2BFeast.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At our post race meal (Jennifer, Susan, Joe, me, Mallory, and Wendy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This was a great weekend with amazing people that I am very happy to call my friends! Thanks to Jennifer, Susan, Joe, Mallory, and Wendy for making this a very fun trip!<br />
<br />
Almost forgot....<br />
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Jennifer surprised each of us with a goody bag! Once again, talk about that southern hospitality! Thanks for being an awesome host, Jen!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nPZjKF0KXwo/VP3kxxrczxI/AAAAAAAABGY/WXg_PJIw2vg/s1600/P3090023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nPZjKF0KXwo/VP3kxxrczxI/AAAAAAAABGY/WXg_PJIw2vg/s1600/P3090023.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lZF1mrUP2ks/VP3kzHbTbGI/AAAAAAAABGg/M4xD9ZkeDr0/s1600/P3090025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lZF1mrUP2ks/VP3kzHbTbGI/AAAAAAAABGg/M4xD9ZkeDr0/s1600/P3090025.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goody bag contents. The bottle is Serrano pepper vinegar.</td></tr>
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Finally, here is a picture of the medal:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lueb9cnJ280/VP3mZci3Y2I/AAAAAAAABGs/aFfY0x17gbQ/s1600/P3090027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lueb9cnJ280/VP3mZci3Y2I/AAAAAAAABGs/aFfY0x17gbQ/s1600/P3090027.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-18772761910385110822015-01-10T14:49:00.000-06:002015-01-10T14:49:01.173-06:00A nice, crisp, cool morning for a runThis morning I had a long run of eleven miles planned. The temperature when I left for the park was shown to be a feels like of three degrees with an air temp of 9F. I dressed appropriately, grabbed my Orange Mud VP2 hydration pack, my mp3 player, then headed to the park. This would be my first double digit mileage run since I tweaked my quad about two months ago. My plan was to take a walk break every mile in order to drink, then get back to running. Including the walk breaks, I wanted to average about 9:30/mile for the run.<br />
<br />
When I got out of the car and put on my pack, I could feel the cold air on my legs. I had a pair of CW-X endurance generator tights with a thin pair of pants over the top. This would be only my 2nd run in the tights, which admittedly are a bit too small for me, but the next size up would have been too large. I put on a pair of mittens over my gloves to help protect from the wind, but after two miles, my hand were too warm so I took the mittens off. The wind was never too bad and pretty much calmed down to a light breeze by the end of my second mile. It was a very comfortable temperature for running, but it did make it problematic to drink out of the bottles. The spots on both of my bottles had frozen closed so I had to unscrew the top every time I wanted to drink. It did make me slow down more than I had hoped as I had to stop moving in order to drink, but I still held myself to the stopping once a mile routine.<br />
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At about the four mile point, I noticed some sweat dripping from my hat. As the run progressed, I was able to see an icicle form on the bottom of my shades. At first it was just a small dot, but after a few miles, it started to get larger. At about the nine mile point, I could feel my legs getting tired. I suspect it was more due to the tights causing my legs to work harder than the mileage, but can't prove that at the moment. By this time, I could see the icicle had ended up connecting to my mustache as well as spread along the bottom of the shades. Thankfully, I had covered the exposed skin of my face with a thin layer of Vaseline and couldn't really feel the cold of the ice. The Vaseline also worked to prevent the ice from sticking to my skin.<br />
<br />
My legs never did get too tired, but never felt like they had any spring in their step either. I ended up finishing 11.35 miles with an average pace of 9:26/mile. All in all, I call the run a success. When I finished, I took the following photo to document what I like to call the oakleycicle.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JIiHUhQlacM/VLGPaXOTQ6I/AAAAAAAABB4/M72gzAclq2U/s1600/Oakleycicle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JIiHUhQlacM/VLGPaXOTQ6I/AAAAAAAABB4/M72gzAclq2U/s1600/Oakleycicle.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></div>
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I warmed up with coffee and good conversation with friends and am looking forward to doing it all again next weekend, with above freezing temperatures.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-21786748519466793432014-05-03T12:37:00.000-05:002014-05-03T13:37:14.432-05:00KC Corporate Challenge 5K - RR<b>What:</b> KCCC 5K<br />
<b>When:</b> May 3, 2014 @ 7:30<br />
<b>Where:</b> Kansas City<br />
<b>Goal:</b> sub-21:00<br />
<b>Finish:</b> 21:45ish (unofficial) ETA: 21:28 official<br />
<br />
I've been dealing with back issues that have hindered my running. To try and counteract those issues, I used a tennis ball and rolled my lower back and deltoids. I also self-applied rock tape (kinesiology tape) to my lower back. I must say that it is difficult to apply the tape to your back by yourself. I arrived to the start of the race about an hour early and sat in the car for a bit listening to some tunes to get me pumped up. After a bit I went out for about a half mile warm-up, met up with some friends, and just relaxed until the start.<br />
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With about 15 minutes until the start, we headed to line up. Finally, people start moving forward in preparation of the first wave getting ready to start. The announcer counted down and we were off! Well, I thought we were. We had not crossed a timing mat and everyone was still basically walking. Since I didn't see a mat at the finish, I decided to start my watch. I don't know how long it took, but I finally crossed a timing mat. It took about another 10 seconds or so before I started to be able to pick up the pace. It wasn't until about 1/4 into the first mile that I was able to start settling into my planned pace. My plan for the race was to try to hit mile 1 in 7:00, mile 2 in 6:45, and turn it on for the last 1.1 and hope for the best.<br />
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Mile 1 is starts out with a gradual incline for the first 3/4 of a mile or so, then increases to about a 3% grade. I ended up finishing Mile 1 in 6:45 according to my watch. Mile 2 continues with the 3% grade raise for the first half mile, then has a 1/4 mile descent followed by another quarter mile climb. My back started to give me issues and forced me to slow more than I had planned. I realized my pace was dropping, but I could not do anything to prevent the pace from slowing. I finished Mile 2 in 7:22. Mile 3 is basically downhill at a 3% grade until the 3/4 mile point, then it starts to level out. I tried to push the pace, but didn't feel like I could push the pace like I wanted to. I tried, but had to slow every now and then when the back flared up. It was all I could do to prevent from stopping to walk. I finished Mile 3 in 6:38. According to my watch, I finished the last .18 miles with an avg. 5:33 pace. I did all I could, but still fell short of my goal. I am still pleased that I didn't walk and that I performed better than I did during the Trolley Run last weekend.<br />
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Once again I took advantage of the free ART and finally came away with the cause of my back pain. For some reason, my right calf is having issues and causing my glute not to fire. This in turn is causing my back to work much harder than it should, hence the back pain. I was told to roll the calf with a foam roller or tennis ball for 1.5-2 minutes before every run. I'm hoping that this will start improving my back. So event though I didn't have the race I wanted, at least I came away with a faster time than last year and a plan to start solving the back issue. All in all, I'll take that as a pretty good day.<br />
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EricErichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-11333761757391004222014-03-16T21:02:00.002-05:002014-03-17T05:37:36.871-05:00Shamrock & Run 5K<b>What:</b> Shamrock & Run 5K<br />
<b>When:</b> March 16, 2014<br />
<b>Where:</b> Liberty, MO<br />
<b>Start Time:</b> 11:30 a.m.<br />
<b>Weather:</b> 32F with 17-20mph winds<br />
<b>Goal:</b> Sub 22:00<br />
<b>Finish Time:</b> 21:53<br />
<b>AG Placement (M40-49):</b> 1/12<br />
<b>OA Placement:</b> 9/136<br />
<br />
<b>Race Week:</b><br />
I was going into this race knowing that the running I did during the week would not set me up to have a shot at a PR. Since I wasn't treating this as a goal race, but more as a time trial, I ran my normal mileage the week prior to the race. Truth be told, two of the 10K runs I did during the week were run at a faster pace than I had planned. My legs wanted to run hard, so I let them. In total, I had three runs during the week, two group runs on Saturday, and finally the race on Sunday. <br />
<br />
<b>Race Morning:</b><br />
I loved that the race started at 11:30. I was able to sleep in, get a full 7-8 hours of sleep, and felt rested upon waking. Since I had plenty of time before the race started, I ate a full breakfast and drank plenty of water.<br />
<br />
I made it to the race location at about 10:15, picked up my packet, and sat around talking with friends before the race. With about 15 minutes until the start of the race, I went outside to get acclimated to the cold winds. I was wearing a 180S long sleeve quantum heat shirt, race ready shorts, and my yellow knee-high "BEER" socks. For the most part, it didn't feel too cold except for while the wind was blowing, which was all the time. I was bouncing around and laughing with other runners at the starting line. It didn't feel like a real race to me as the feeling of "butterflies" never made an appearance. I actually missed it, as the feeling of nervousness/anticipation before the start of the race is one of my favorite moments.<br />
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<b>The Race:</b><br />
The race is an out and back course which takes us south for the first quarter mile, turns southwest until the start of Mile 2, then takes us west to the turnaround point.<br />
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It starts on a short flat section, goes downhill for about the next half mile and then climbs again for about another half mile. We then make a right turn down another road, run a relatively flat section to the turnaround point, then do it all again.<br />
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The race started on time. I tried to start my watch when the gun went off, unfortunately, I realized I forgot to set it in exercise mode. I quickly remedied the situation and within about a tenth of a mile I had GPS lock and started the watch. I ran the first mile at a comfortably hard pace using gravity, and I'm sure the wind, to help me finish it in about 6:45. Mile 1 was basically uneventful. Nobody passed me after the first quarter mile or so.<br />
<br />
Shortly after the start of Mile 2, we take a right turn and start up a quarter mile long gentle climb as we head to the turnaround point. This section was slightly protected from the wind. I was closing on the woman ahead of me and passed her before we reached the turnaround. I then set my sights on the three runners in front of me, one of whom I knew. They were about an eighth of a mile ahead of me. The biggest obstacle in my way was the strong headwind that awaited us as we made the turn back to the northeast at the end of Mile 2. I slowed down this mile due to the headwind and finished in 7:03.<br />
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Mile 3 begins with an approximate 0.4 mile descent, then is uphill the rest of the way. I pushed during the descent and started to make up ground on the runners in front of me. With the strong headwind, I couldn't pick up much speed. Things got worse as we started the climb back to the finish. Running against the wind, it felt as though I was running in slow motion. I saw I was making up more ground and tried to pick up the pace. I can't say that it felt as if I was going faster, but I was at least closing quicker. At this point, it became real hard to catch my breath. Not only was I getting real tired and my abs were getting sore, but with the full force of the wind coming at me, I could only take short breaths. I was finally within 10 feet of the first of three runners and decided it was time to make my move. I pushed harder and passed him on the left. It was getting really difficult to hold pace and I figured I would be passed again at any moment. Then I saw I was gaining on the other two runners. They made it around a woman who was starting to slow. I passed her and continued to slowly gain up the hill. Unfortunately, I just could not find another gear. I was giving it all I had and ran out of room. One of the runners finished two seconds ahead of me and the other finished five seconds ahead. While running the last mile, I figured I had slowed down to about an 8:30 pace, surprisingly, I finished Mile 3 in 7:24.<br />
<br />
Since I started my watch late, it only measured 3.02 miles. However, one of my friends had the course measured at an accurate 3.11 miles. According to my watch, I did really have a kick and finished the last 0.02 miles in 7 seconds for a pace of 6:00/mile. As I crossed the finish line, I was greeted by the RD telling me I had a top 10 finish. I couldn't believe it, figured he had miscounted somehow, but it turns out he was right.<br />
<br />
I watched my friends finish, then we went inside to warm up and get some food. When they posted the results, I saw that I had finished 1st in my AG and 9th overall. I decided I had to head to the awards ceremony at the Rock & Run brew pub, the organizer/sponsor of the race. I met some friends at the brew pub. We were finally able to get a table and ate lunch while waiting for the awards. One of my friends won the race, another finished 2nd in her age group, and another finished 3rd in his age group. All race entrants were given a $5 coupon toward food/drink, so I used that to get my lunch. For winning my age group, I was given a $20 gift certificate for the Rock and Run brew pub. Since it's good for five years, I have no doubt that I'll be able to use it.<br />
<br />
I had a much better race than I had anticipated and was very happy to have met my goal of finishing under 22:00. I have no doubt that if I put forth the same effort in a flatter course with less wind, I will be able to set a new PR and finish under 21:00. My first attempt will be the beginning of May.<br />
<br />
One thing I learned during the race, I need to work on my stamina so I can hold speed over a longer distance. It's now time to beginning running strides and longer repeats and kick my running up a notch or two.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-63207911120715061392013-12-18T06:16:00.000-06:002013-12-18T06:45:57.738-06:00Alternate Chili Run - December 14, 2013<b>What:</b> Alternate Chili Run<br />
<b>Where:</b> Wyandotte County Lake Park, Kansas City, KS<br />
<b>When:</b> December 14, 2013<br />
<b>Distance:</b> 10.35 miles<br />
<b>Weather: </b>cold and windy with a feels-like temp of 13F<br />
<b>Goal:</b> to push the pace a bit and have fun<br />
<b>Finish Time:</b> 1:47:47<br />
<br />
<em>Warning: There will be some profanity in the last part of the report. Please continue reading at your own risk.</em><br />
<br />
<b>Background:</b><br />
Between October 19th and November 2nd I ran a 50K, covered 50.5 miles in 24 hours, and ran a trail 5K. After that stretch I took a short break from running longer distances and kept my weekly mileage closer to 20 miles. I started to get into a rut and decided to register for the Run Toto Run 50K on February 8, 2014. Now I knew I had to start ramping up my mileage and started meeting friends on the weekends to run the Run Toto Run course. Somewhere along the way I decided to register for the Alternate Chili Run since it is the same loop and would allow me to get a better idea of what time I should shoot for as a goal for the 50K. I started running the loop once per weekend, but starting the week of Thanksgiving, I started to run the loop on both Saturday and Sunday.<br />
<br />
<b>Race Day:</b><br />
I've been having so much fun just running the loop easy with friends that I haven't really tried to push the pace at all. With that in mind, I decided to push the pace a bit during the race, but not run it at race effort. My plan was to run the majority of the hills up to the dam (5 miles) and then walk the steeper hills that I know I will walk during the 50K.<br />
<br />
I had wanted to get to the race between 6:30 & 7:00 so I could get a decent parking spot, pick up my packet, and relax. I arrived to the park on time only to find a short line of vehicles stopped at the closed gates. Since I would still get a decent parking spot, I took the time to relax and enjoy listening to music. After about 45 minutes, I was beginning to wonder if the gates would ever be opened up. Eventually, the cops came and opened up the gates allowing the long convoy of cars to finally enter. I parked the car, waited until I saw people picking up their packets, then braved the cold and picked up my packet.<br />
<br />
<b>The Race:</b><br />
The race starts and everyone goes across a metal bridge, crosses a field, heads up a short section of road, and then hangs a left onto the trails. I ran at a conversational effort for the first couple of miles and was shocked to see that I was averaging under 10:00 miles.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LDZqc-s7_6s/UrD4bXOk9JI/AAAAAAAAAg0/ldU2gNxyAN0/s1600/PC140306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LDZqc-s7_6s/UrD4bXOk9JI/AAAAAAAAAg0/ldU2gNxyAN0/s640/PC140306.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvBGIYRJkEc/UrD4oOcxK4I/AAAAAAAAAhg/m6DlHl9yIbE/s1600/PC150318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvBGIYRJkEc/UrD4oOcxK4I/AAAAAAAAAhg/m6DlHl9yIbE/s640/PC150318.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A frozen creek crossing during Mile 2 (taken the day after the race)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
During Mile 3, we come to my favorite part of the course, the Wyandotte Triangle. The triangle is about a mile long off shoot of the main trail that exits back on to the trail about 25 feet or so from where you enter it. The conditions were slick during some of the many twists and turns in this section and had me taking it a bit easier than I had planned. My pace dropped during this section, but my focus was on not falling rather than meeting a time goal. I exited the triangle to cheers from the great volunteers at the first aid station.<br />
<br />
Once back on the main loop, I picked the pace back up a bit and ran relaxed. The footing was pretty good so I figured I would take advantage of it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WTE1WfaT3Cw/UrD4be-bZfI/AAAAAAAAAgw/9pDw_Uy4v0E/s1600/PC140308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WTE1WfaT3Cw/UrD4be-bZfI/AAAAAAAAAgw/9pDw_Uy4v0E/s640/PC140308.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Around the start of Mile 5.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I soon get to a short, but steep downhill section that is basically an erosional gully. It's filled with leaves and a little snow. I took it easy as I expected it to be fairly slick, but surprisingly, traction going down was pretty good.<br />
<br />
Shortly after the downhill I get to the only hill in the first half of the loop that I walked. I power hiked up the hill, hit a flat section, then came to my second favorite section of the course, Fall Down Hill. I let gravity take me down the hill, but held back a bit due to the conditions. I could tell that an upcoming corner was going to be slick and mentioned it to the guy running behind me. As luck would have it, I fell on the corner. It wasn't too bad, basically I fell on my ass and slid around the corner. It brought back memories of sledding on one of those roll-up blue plastic sleds and hitting a bump, just a little uncomfortable. I had some pain in my left arm for about a half mile or so after the fall, but it just felt like a minor cramp.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, after Fall Down Hill is my least favorite section of the course, the Dam(n) Hill. The hill is at the beginning of Mile 6 and is a steep .3 mile section of roadway, with probably .25 of those miles being uphill.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mc7BzIFHfDs/UrD4aw4rOiI/AAAAAAAAAgs/GipCbhDKOvo/s1600/PC140309.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mc7BzIFHfDs/UrD4aw4rOiI/AAAAAAAAAgs/GipCbhDKOvo/s640/PC140309.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dam(n) Hill. Unfortunately you can't tell how steep it is from the picture.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As I plan to do during the 50K, I walked up that damn hill, ran the short downhill section, then walked back up the hill until turning back on the trails. This is where we reach the second aid station, also with amazing volunteers! I can make up some time on this section as it is flat to downhill.<br />
<br />
After a trip through the "wind tunnel," I come to a short, steep, rocky downhill section and carefully make my way down it. It is during this section that I have hyperextended a knee twice (once during training and once during a race), today, I made it down with no issues. I turn left on a flat section of trail, and pick up the pace a bit since I know of the hills waiting for me at the end of the section.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b2HM4VLOzNI/UrD4kFsXEhI/AAAAAAAAAhE/_MqVDImofnk/s1600/PC140310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b2HM4VLOzNI/UrD4kFsXEhI/AAAAAAAAAhE/_MqVDImofnk/s640/PC140310.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first hill after the flat section of trail near the beginning of Mile 7. Yes, I walked it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have now reached Fester's Wander. The next approximate 3/4 of a mile are mostly uphill with a only a short, steep downhill section to break it up. After making it through the hills, you are rewarded with a nice, relatively flat section of trail, followed by a downhill section. Unfortunately, you also have to go back up to the ridgeline.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MBiCW1ICNRU/UrD4k5Z_WiI/AAAAAAAAAhI/Pz8Y8dZKNCU/s1600/PC140311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MBiCW1ICNRU/UrD4k5Z_WiI/AAAAAAAAAhI/Pz8Y8dZKNCU/s640/PC140311.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I believe this is shortly after Fester's Wander.</td></tr>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WB320vqKfhM/UrD4lXqTT6I/AAAAAAAAAhQ/iMCedxBDPqw/s1600/PC140312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WB320vqKfhM/UrD4lXqTT6I/AAAAAAAAAhQ/iMCedxBDPqw/s640/PC140312.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shortly after above photo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s1FIYFGdb6k/UrGM0yHjfPI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/LGfbkBrJaRo/s1600/Alternate+Chili+Run.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s1FIYFGdb6k/UrGM0yHjfPI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/LGfbkBrJaRo/s640/Alternate+Chili+Run.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 8. Photo Taken by Rick Mayo of Mile 90 Photography.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After Fester's, I make it up another hill and pop out at the back of the boat yard. The section of trails that follows is a fairly decent spot to make up a little time before you start hitting the toughest hills on the trails which are affectionately known as the Three Bitches! These hills are all within the last mile or so of the course.<br />
<br />
The first of the Three Bitches I like to call Bertha, because she is big and unrelenting. <br />
<br />
<em>Note: Bertha is not named after a real person. If your name is Bertha, and you happen to be reading this, don't take it personally.</em><br />
<br />
My goal at some point is to run each of the Three Bitches, right now I can only run up Bitch #2 and Bitch #3. I do not have names for these hills....yet. As usual, I walked up Bertha. Once at the top I made up ground on the runners in front of me. I ended up passing some runners during the stretch between Bertha and Bitch #2 and another as I ran up the second Bitch. <br />
<br />
I almost always forget about Bitch #3 and think I am done with hills, then I get the rude awakening. This time, I remembered about it and pushed the pace until I reached the hill. Since running the hill zaps my energy, I power hiked up it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qR4wNrTDJHU/UrD4r-A7yKI/AAAAAAAAAhs/pVZEkJp6Yek/s1600/PC140313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qR4wNrTDJHU/UrD4r-A7yKI/AAAAAAAAAhs/pVZEkJp6Yek/s640/PC140313.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading up Bitch #3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once you make it to the top of the final Bitch, it's easy running the rest of the way. I ended up passing the first two individuals in the above photo and caught up to the guy in the red jacket at the top of the hill. I get to the last downhill section and decide to just ease it into the finish in case the course was icy. It turns out it wasn't bad and I could have sprinted the finish, but since I didn't treat this as a race I didn't really care. I was completely surprised to see that I crossed the finish line in under 1:50:00, last year under better conditions, I finished in 1:52:xx. <br />
<br />
Now I'm still trying to narrow down my goal. I finished my first 50K in 6:07:xx and it was on an easier course (Lake Perry). Notoriously, the WyCo course takes longer to finish. I'm thinking that sub 6:30 is feasible, but would still love to get a sub-6:00. As I start running two loops of the course for training, I'll pinpoint the goal and try to make it happen.<br />
<br />
I received the medal from Ben and then ate some chili and drank some homebrew beer that Ben brought as refreshments. As with all the Trail Nerd races, Ben, Coco, and the volunteers did an awesome job and made the race go very smoothly! A heartfelt Thank You goes out to them all.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-87280677573130780062013-11-02T14:50:00.002-05:002013-11-02T14:50:35.887-05:00Through the Woods 5K RR<b>What:</b> Through the Woods 5K<br />
<b>When:</b> Saturday, November 2, 2013<br />
<b>Where:</b> Parkville Nature Sanctuary, Parkville, MO<br />
<b>Weather:</b> 44F and breezy <br />
<b>Goal: </b>Beat last year's time of 29:32<br />
<b>Finish:</b> 27:40<br />
<b>Placement</b>: 3rd overall<br />
<br />
<b>Past week:</b><br />
I participated in a 24 hour event on October 26th and finished 50.5 miles . I had several aches and pains during the event, but seemed to recover fairly well. I never had any issues walking up/down stairs. I had planned on running Wed/Thurs, but decided I better play it safe and take more time off due the aches/pains encountered during the event. I didn't run until the day of the race.<br />
<br />
<b>Race day:</b><br />
I decided I wanted to get a run in before the race so I did a 4 mile run around a local park. It went well and I averaged roughly 8:45/mile. I felt pretty good, but could definitely tell my legs had no spring to their step. Since the 5K was billed as a fun run and was only going to give medals to the top three males and top three females, I figured I had no shot at an award.<br />
<br />
This was a small race, but it looked like there were some fast people there. I still suspected I'd finish around the middle of the pack.I stayed in my car until about 30 minutes before the start of the race. At that time, I started mingling with some friends and getting use to the weather. With the breeze it was a little chilly, but still nice enough for shorts and a t-shirt.<br />
<br />
Since nobody was eating any of the provided cinnamon rolls, I decided to eat one about 15 minutes prior to the start of the race. At about 10:00 we lined up and the announcements began. I figured people would line up on the starting line so I lined up about five feet back. To my surprise, the majority of the people lined up after me. Mark that as odd feeling number one.<br />
<br />
The race started and one of my friends took the lead for about the first 200 meters or so. I soon found myself leading the race. Me, leading a race, mark this as odd feeling number two. I decided to push a bit and see how the race played out.<br />
<br />
I was expecting several people to come rushing past me. I was finally passed by the first person near the half mile point. I suddenly had a sense of relief and the pressure was off. My legs still had no pep, but I kept pace with the guy for a while. There was a large hill during the first mile and I walked portions of it to conserve energy. During my walking breaks, the guy in first would pull ahead, but I would catch up during the flatter sections. I was expecting someone to pass me during the walk breaks, but it didn't happen. After cresting the hill, we turned right and started to run an out and back section. The end of the first mile came at about the halfway point on the way out. I ran Mile 1 in 9:28.<br />
<br />
During Mile 2, we finished the out and back section and I was able to see my nearest competitors. They were looking strong, but still a ways back. However, I was fading. I decided to start running for placement and not time. As such, I allowed myself to walk the hills. It was shocking when nobody passed me during my walk breaks. I could feel myself fading, but still tried to push. I finished Mile 2 in 8:45.<br />
<br />
Mile 3 started shortly after finishing the out and back section. My legs weren't getting tired, they just lacked pep. It was my breathing that was really hindering me during this race. My breathing was getting ragged. I still tried to push, but now I had a pursuer. He was running strong and closing fast. He finally passed me at about the 2.5 mile point. I kept him within striking distance, but felt that 3rd place was secure and decided to run smart and at least keep my lock on 3rd. We made it to my favorite section of the trail, a rocky descent. I normally just run down this section with reckless abandon. Today I was more careful, but still ran down it quickly. I thought about passing for 2nd, but ultimately pulled up as I almost stepped on the 2nd place runner's heels. He definitely knew I was there at that point. He picked up the pace after turning from the downhill and I decided to let him go. I knew I didn't have the energy to catch him and I didn't know if the runner behind me was closing or not. I finished Mile 3 in 8:15. The last 0.18 was run at a surprising 6:40 pace as I finished it in 1:12.<br />
<br />
I actually finished a race in 3rd place, this was odd feeling number three. I was spent, but ecstatic. I beat my time from last year by nearly two minutes and finished 3rd overall! For finishing in the top three males, I received a 3rd place medal, a $15 gift certificate for Road ID, a bag that stows in your pocket but can carry 25 pounds of goods, and a plastic, collapsible water bottle.<br />
<br />
I am glad I decided to register for this race. I had brought my camera to get pictures of the course, but since I decided to race it, the camera wasn't used. Since the blog post needed pictures, I took pictures of the awards.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iac11iQEgCA/UnVFcxap8WI/AAAAAAAAAgA/pXbiTyfrHf0/s1600/PB020235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iac11iQEgCA/UnVFcxap8WI/AAAAAAAAAgA/pXbiTyfrHf0/s640/PB020235.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front of the medal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ENfLOWKv_ag/UnVFhbbT_eI/AAAAAAAAAgM/Jwf8ptJmD88/s1600/PB020236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ENfLOWKv_ag/UnVFhbbT_eI/AAAAAAAAAgM/Jwf8ptJmD88/s640/PB020236.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back of the medal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YQZ1YDu-YrA/UnVFco_DaaI/AAAAAAAAAf8/XvknE067QyE/s1600/PB020238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YQZ1YDu-YrA/UnVFco_DaaI/AAAAAAAAAf8/XvknE067QyE/s640/PB020238.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bag that was given as a prize</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F4i9m_88y2U/UnVFhoeRo6I/AAAAAAAAAgQ/1SeWLBT5FIk/s1600/PB020239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F4i9m_88y2U/UnVFhoeRo6I/AAAAAAAAAgQ/1SeWLBT5FIk/s640/PB020239.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The plastic water bottle that was given as a prize.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now it's time to rest up and try to decide what I want to do next. Likely I'll just be training for the Alternate Chili Run in December. Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-36414654213636584632013-10-31T21:09:00.002-05:002013-10-31T21:13:19.011-05:00Equalizer Run RR<b>What:</b> Equalizer Run<br />
<b>When:</b> October 26, 2013<br />
<b>Where:</b> Des Moines, IA<br />
<b>Distance:</b> Whatever is covered within 24 hours<br />
<b>Goals:</b> A) 50 miles<br />
B) 43 miles (distance covered last year)<br />
C) 26.2 miles (minimum for the hoodie)<br />
<b>Final Distance:</b> 50.5 miles<br />
<br />
<b>The Weekend Before:</b><br />
On October 19th, I ran my first 50K. My plan was to run it easy, but that quickly changed at the 21 mile point when I was told I was on pace for a sub-6 hour finish. I pushed a bit and ended up falling hard at mile 24. After the race, it was painful to straighten my right leg. I decided to take it easy and only ran once (on Thursday) the week leading up to the race. That run went well, but I could still feel a twinge in my knee.<br />
<br />
<b>The Day Before:</b><br />
I started packing at around 10:00 in the morning so I could be on the road around noon. I packed a tent, blankets, camp stove, food and hydration supplies, selected the running clothes I planned to wear. The clothes included multiple shorts, pants, short sleeve shirts, long sleeve shirts, 3 pairs of shoes, multiple pairs of socks, and multiple jackets. I hit the road around 12:15ish.<br />
<br />
I arrived in Des Moines and checked into the hotel around 3:30. I went to wally world and bought some other food items for the race. Suddenly, I got a feeling that I forgot something at home. I decided I better lay out the clothes I planned to wear at the start of the race. Shoes/socks - check. Shorts/pants - check. Shirts...where are those darn things. F@%@! I forgot the shirts. It turns out I put them beside the bag, not in it, ooops. Back to wally world I went and bought some shirts. It turns out I did have some long sleeve shirts from previous races in the car, but just like the new shirts, this would be the first time time they would be worn. Thankfully it was just shirts that I forgot, I already planned on using waterproof band-aids so I wasn't worried about chaffing.<br />
<br />
There was a pre-race dinner and a sports bar located 37 seconds away from the hotel. I had a burger and beer and enjoyed conversing with friends, old and new. We left the bar at about 8:00 and I went back and finished laying items out for the race.<br />
<br />
<b>The Race:</b><br />
Since the temp was in the upper 30s/low 40s, I started in shorts and a long sleeve shirt. I settled on starting the race in my Pearl Izumi Road EM N2s. My plan was to switch to my Mizuno Wave Riders after about 2 hours and then finish in the Brooks Ghost.<br />
<br />
I met up with friends for breakfast at the hotel. We had planned to get to the race location by 7:00. We left on time, but unfortunately there was a major traffic delay and we arrived about 7:15. After unpacking everything from our vehicles, we set up the tent. Before long, it was time to line up for instructions. I thought I had time to mix up my hydration bottles, but I was wrong. Since this was a 24 hour event and only a 1.9 mile loop. I decided to go without the belt for the first loop.<br />
<br />
At about 8:00, we were off. I fell in with a couple of runners, Tim and Britt. Just like with most of the other ultra runners I've met, conversation came easy. The loop seemed to end quickly, we ran it at about a 10:00/mile pace. After I crossed the line and made sure I was counted for a lap, I stopped at our "base camp" and mixed up my bottles and put on the hydration belt.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oFl9FayIKAc/UnL_nX83ykI/AAAAAAAAAfM/p8DVt0IcgGQ/s1600/Lap+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oFl9FayIKAc/UnL_nX83ykI/AAAAAAAAAfM/p8DVt0IcgGQ/s640/Lap+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tim, myself, and Britt during the first lap.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The next mile I ran too fast at a 9:18 pace. I settled down after that and averaged right around a 10:00 mile until mile 15. I stopped at the "base camp" every lap and nibbled on something or refilled a bottle as needed. After lap 6, I changed my shoes as planned and headed back out in the Mizunos.<br />
<br />
After lap 9 (Mile 17), I started walking several sections of the course each lap to conserve energy. Then around Mile 21, I started getting pain in my left calf. It felt like a knot and was sore to touch, but it wasn't acting like a cramp. I decided to start walking from that point to start taking it easy on the calf. Somewhere around Mile 25 I was starting to get pain at the base of my shin, just above my right foot. It hurt to put too much pressure on it or flex the foot. I could still move forward, albeit slowly, so I trudged onward. At about 2:15pm (Mile 28ish) I took a break for a couple of hours to eat a sandwich and massage the calf.<br />
<br />
At about 4:20, I changed into the pair of Brooks shoes and headed back out to start Mile 29. I decided I wanted to make it to at least the 50K point before I took another rest. I made it to about 32.75 and decided to go grab some grub with a couple of friends. Since I have never had Chipotle, that's where we went. I must say it was a pretty tasty burrito. Then again, I was hungry so it might not have been as good as it seemed.<br />
<br />
After dinner, I decided to try and get some rest. I laid down in the tent to let my calf & shin get some needed recovery time. I couldn't sleep, so I read a book for a few hours and then closed my eyes. I woke up at around 12:30am and headed back out some more. The calf pain had really diminished, but the shin pain was still there. When I approached the rainbow bridge, I snapped a few pics since it does look really cool at night.<br />
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<br />
<br />
I did the math and figured at the pace I was walking, I could reach my goal of 50 miles, as long as I didn't take any more breaks.<br />
<br />
I made it to Mile 40ish and suddenly got real foggy headed while crossing the bridge. It was as if I was buzzed or drunk, even though I haven't drank any alcohol. I decided that when I got back to the "base camp" I would stop and try to get some sleep. I made it back at about 3:00am and managed to sleep for a couple of hours.<br />
<br />
When I woke up, I figured that my shot at the goal of 50 miles was long gone. I set a new goal of 45 miles and headed out for more laps. This time around, my calf felt fine, my shin was hurting less, but my right knee was starting to twinge. This was an issue that was left over from falling during the 50K the previous weekend. It wasn't changing my gait, so I decided to keep going. Since the calf and shin were better, I was able to pick up my walking pace and make some decent time, all things considered. <br />
<br />
Somewhere around 5:30ish, I came up to the "Justice League," a group of people dressed up as super heroes. My first thought was, "oh great, I'm about to encounter a pack of crazies patrolling the park." Thankfully, they were the entourage of Tim, one of the runners I ran with during the first lap. We exchanged greetings and I headed on my way, my mind at ease knowing the Justice League was there to keep the park safe. <br />
<br />
At about 6:00 I caught back up to another runner/friend, Brad, and walked the remainder of the lap with him and his family. It felt good to talk and take my mind off of the knee. It was all I could do to keep pace with him, but I managed. When we made it back to start another loop, we decided to start doing the out and back section that consisted of going down the path to an orange cone and turning around. Each out and back section was a quarter mile in length.<br />
<br />
With just under 30 minutes to go I was told that I was at 47.46 miles. I tried to pick up the pace, but was still walking. I tried to see how a very slow run felt. It didn't hurt any more than a walk so I went with it. The orange cone was placed on a downhill section of the path. I had to walk this section due to my shin hurting too much while running it. So I walked down to the cone, back up the "hill" and ran the rest of the way. My pace slowly started to pick up and I started to feel good. Eventually, I started to actually run. It felt really good to stretch the legs out and get some speed going. I knew I was close, so when I made it back to the finish line, I asked how many laps I had left to reach 50 miles. At that time, I was told two laps. I think I just about sprinted those two laps. I asked to make sure I was at 50. I was told I was at 49.46 miles. Crap, this meant I needed to run three more out and backs to reach 50 miles. I didn't even look at the clock, I just took off running as fast as I could at the time. I ended up finishing the out and backs and realized I had some time left so I ran, slowly to get one more finished. I ended up walking quite a bit to the cone and then slowly jogged back to the finish line.<br />
<br />
Shortly after 8:00am, the awards were handed out. One of my friends, Dian, made some cool finisher medals for the event out of petri dishes and some advil.<br />
<br />
The longest distance covered, actual miles, was 118 miles which made for a new event record. Talk about impressive. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_qpbhv_MPQU/UnL_tepIV1I/AAAAAAAAAfo/ZiL3XIEqafs/s1600/race+end.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_qpbhv_MPQU/UnL_tepIV1I/AAAAAAAAAfo/ZiL3XIEqafs/s640/race+end.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying the awards with my fancy red/yellow hat.</td></tr>
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<br />
It felt great to achieve a goal that I thought had slipped away from me.
I couldn't have asked for a better finish. I had a lot of fun over the
course of the event and met a lot of good people. During my walking
sections, I was always asked how I was doing and getting words of
encouragement from those passing me. The only thing that would have made
this event better is if it was on a trail instead of an asphalt path.<br />
<br />
Surprisingly, I never felt as bad after this event as I did after the 50K the previous weekend. I also felt better after the event this year than I did after finishing about 43 miles at it last year. To say that I am happy about both the result and how I felt after the event is a huge understatement. This gives me some hope heading into longer ultras on trails in 2014. I can't wait!Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-81643759626333427562013-10-20T18:49:00.004-05:002013-10-20T20:07:50.630-05:00Lake Perry Rocks 50K RR<b>What:</b> Lake Perry Rocks 50K<br />
<b>When:</b> October 19, 2013<br />
<b>Where:</b> Lake Perry, Meriden, Kansas<br />
<b>Starting Temp:</b> 32F<br />
<b>Finish Temp:</b> 62F <br />
<b>Fueling Strategy:</b> Tailwind nutrition as the mainstay, supplemented by real food at the aid stations<br />
<b>Goal:</b> sub-7 hours<br />
<b>Finish Time:</b> 6:07:19<br />
<br />
<b>Background:</b><br />
<b> </b>I had a good spring racing season, then came the heat of the summer. It was a struggle to get in any long runs. Then I ran Coleen's Sweaty Ass Run on August 10th, a 10 hour event in which you run a 5K XC loop as many times as you want to within the 10 hours. I eked out 15 miles and decided I wanted to attempt to run the Hawk Marathon on September 14th. I would use the marathon as a training run to see if I could run the Lake Perry Rocks 50K.<br />
<br />
After finishing the marathon and feeling good, I registered for the 50K the next morning and sketched out a training plan. I had scheduled back to back long runs on the weekends to get me use to longer runs without causing me too much recovery time. Unfortunately, the back to back long runs rarely happened as scheduled. The first week I ran both 11 mile runs as planned, but that was basically the end of following the schedule. I always got in the first long run, but never managed to run the 2nd long run. I had planned my longest run, a 22 miler, the day after a 4 mile race. Evidently, I underestimated how tired I would be after the 4 mile race as my 22 miler was ended at 11 miles. What that means is that my longest run between the marathon and 50K would be 16.5 miles. I realized my training was insufficient for actually racing the distance, but based upon the marathon, I figured I could still finish just under seven hours. <br />
<br />
<b>Race Week:</b><br />
I had planned<b> </b>an easy 10-12 mile run around a park on the Saturday before the race. Then one of my friends asked if I wanted to go for a trail run, of course I opted for the trail run. I had a fun on the run, but we ended up doing a fairly hilly 14.5ish miles. The run was a blast and we took it easy, but I wondered how the legs would recover from the hills. <br />
<br />
During the week leading up to the race, I ended up running three runs for a total of nine miles. On the first two runs, my legs felt tired, but on the third run, they felt pretty good. I took it easy on Friday and felt good going into the race.<br />
<br />
<b>Race Day: </b><br />
I woke up at 2:30 so I could drink my coffee, let nature run its course, then drive the hour long trek to the start of the race. I made it to the race location at about 6:30ish and it was cold. I remained in my car for a bit until it was time to pick up the race packet. After picking up the packet, I mingled with the other runners until we had about 10 minutes before the start of the race. At that point, I went outside to start getting use to the weather.<br />
<br />
With about 5 minutes until start time, we started to line up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YCW91tLsS9U/UmPzKiLpz3I/AAAAAAAAAaU/hGj1eWSvvKc/s1600/PA190136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YCW91tLsS9U/UmPzKiLpz3I/AAAAAAAAAaU/hGj1eWSvvKc/s640/PA190136.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Facing the starting line</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Facing backward.</td></tr>
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At 8:00, we were off. I told myself to keep a slow and comfortable pace. Myself and one my friends, Casey started keeping pace. We decided to try and keep a 12:00/mile pace and see how it felt.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NrXr66CCbkg/UmPzSrmhgzI/AAAAAAAAAak/MNUrwfVaJVE/s1600/PA190138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NrXr66CCbkg/UmPzSrmhgzI/AAAAAAAAAak/MNUrwfVaJVE/s640/PA190138.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sometime during Mile 1</td></tr>
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We fell in line with other runners and started to settle in and enjoy the run. Early in the first mile, I had a small rock make its way into my shoe. It wasn't causing any pain so I decided to wait until the aid station at Mile 6 to remove it.<br />
<br />
The first mile was on pace, but we noticed we had really slowed during the second mile and decided it was time to make the move to pass the runners leading the conga line. Another runner, Jonathan, decided to follow us and we now were a pack of three.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gtyfej8dPF8/UmPzlDGf9EI/AAAAAAAAAaw/uv1ewdVGMB4/s1600/PA190140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gtyfej8dPF8/UmPzlDGf9EI/AAAAAAAAAaw/uv1ewdVGMB4/s640/PA190140.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early in Mile 2, before making the pass.</td></tr>
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After passing, we picked up the pace a bit keeping it comfortable. By the Garmin, we kept knocking off miles at about 12:00 pace. It felt good and fairly effortless. I felt like I was in the zone. The time just flew by and before I knew it, we had reached the manned aid station at Mile 6.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BFZ8BTPhnTA/UmPzk-czpvI/AAAAAAAAAas/HSgNdhH-YRI/s1600/PA190144.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BFZ8BTPhnTA/UmPzk-czpvI/AAAAAAAAAas/HSgNdhH-YRI/s320/PA190144.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early in Mile 3</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c_aO1ifiOIc/UmPzo3No5qI/AAAAAAAAAa8/wVLeqoc4r1c/s1600/PA190147.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c_aO1ifiOIc/UmPzo3No5qI/AAAAAAAAAa8/wVLeqoc4r1c/s320/PA190147.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo taken during Mile 3 with the camera held behind my head.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bNQoOmm2hr4/UmP0Aj0ZmSI/AAAAAAAAAbI/L8CQVTATPHM/s1600/PA190148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bNQoOmm2hr4/UmP0Aj0ZmSI/AAAAAAAAAbI/L8CQVTATPHM/s640/PA190148.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early in Mile 4.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MVBnR53dQ7A/UmP0AQ9YEtI/AAAAAAAAAbE/lwawau1WzwE/s1600/PA190150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MVBnR53dQ7A/UmP0AQ9YEtI/AAAAAAAAAbE/lwawau1WzwE/s640/PA190150.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halfway through Mile 4</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8FRClhMlPfE/UmP0BzqIbEI/AAAAAAAAAbU/FcDMcuak9zA/s1600/PA190155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8FRClhMlPfE/UmP0BzqIbEI/AAAAAAAAAbU/FcDMcuak9zA/s640/PA190155.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near the end of Mile 4</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V7uwjr4tAG4/UmP0UW4m0OI/AAAAAAAAAbc/B8eZzhd0BYQ/s1600/PA190156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V7uwjr4tAG4/UmP0UW4m0OI/AAAAAAAAAbc/B8eZzhd0BYQ/s640/PA190156.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early in Mile 5</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q2tUPHgINXg/UmP0UxzVjNI/AAAAAAAAAbg/2Wj76WWpS54/s1600/PA190158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q2tUPHgINXg/UmP0UxzVjNI/AAAAAAAAAbg/2Wj76WWpS54/s640/PA190158.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early in Mile 5</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BOgCsED7sSo/UmP0WCDH9OI/AAAAAAAAAbs/Xwbw1DM3s9w/s1600/PA190160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BOgCsED7sSo/UmP0WCDH9OI/AAAAAAAAAbs/Xwbw1DM3s9w/s640/PA190160.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Late in Mile 5</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VOFKqi03xks/UmP0kzQ4g4I/AAAAAAAAAb4/7Tso3S0kLa8/s1600/PA190161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VOFKqi03xks/UmP0kzQ4g4I/AAAAAAAAAb4/7Tso3S0kLa8/s640/PA190161.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early in Mile 6</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JfvacfIIB6M/UmP0jw8iffI/AAAAAAAAAb0/Az8HY8duVbw/s1600/PA190162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JfvacfIIB6M/UmP0jw8iffI/AAAAAAAAAb0/Az8HY8duVbw/s640/PA190162.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early in Mile 6</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ouhKcZZQMmo/UmP0mDWVz0I/AAAAAAAAAcE/QTmOSAAYotA/s1600/PA190166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ouhKcZZQMmo/UmP0mDWVz0I/AAAAAAAAAcE/QTmOSAAYotA/s640/PA190166.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manned aid station at Mile 6.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We reached the Mile 6 aid station in one hour. I took the time to remove my left shoe and empty out the rock. Put the shoe back on and refilled one of my water bottles with Tailwind. So the Garmin wasn't matching up, imagine that. After realizing we were averaging 10:00 miles I decided to slow the pace a bit, but not much. I figured as long as I was running well and could still readily hold a conversation, the pace was good. <br />
<br />
By Mile 8, Casey decided to slow down to a pace he knew that he would be able to sustain throughout the race. Jonathan and I kept on truckin and maintained a relatively steady pace. The miles seemed to just fly by and before I knew it, we had reached the Mile 13 aid station. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OViXQqX0dLs/UmP0xn7QfSI/AAAAAAAAAcM/DPJFlNxdKy4/s1600/PA190167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OViXQqX0dLs/UmP0xn7QfSI/AAAAAAAAAcM/DPJFlNxdKy4/s640/PA190167.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early in Mile 7. This section added about a pound of mud to each shoe.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-11T_DpH9EiE/UmP0x8itooI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/V1Q-DNO1wJg/s1600/PA190171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-11T_DpH9EiE/UmP0x8itooI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/V1Q-DNO1wJg/s640/PA190171.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near the end of Mile 7</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2HMjD5FfnXA/UmP0zJxRm6I/AAAAAAAAAcc/GXLkpU-S9Cc/s1600/PA190174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2HMjD5FfnXA/UmP0zJxRm6I/AAAAAAAAAcc/GXLkpU-S9Cc/s640/PA190174.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 11</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nooYUPEWVWk/UmP0-t-myuI/AAAAAAAAAcs/8n5zezY8DQI/s1600/PA190184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nooYUPEWVWk/UmP0-t-myuI/AAAAAAAAAcs/8n5zezY8DQI/s640/PA190184.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 12</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pPmKtw7RKQE/UmP09Y9qYDI/AAAAAAAAAck/dURXNPZ-hTw/s1600/PA190186.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pPmKtw7RKQE/UmP09Y9qYDI/AAAAAAAAAck/dURXNPZ-hTw/s640/PA190186.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 12</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c8vwfJANmPg/UmP1ABzUKDI/AAAAAAAAAc0/KgqmpyuY494/s1600/PA190189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c8vwfJANmPg/UmP1ABzUKDI/AAAAAAAAAc0/KgqmpyuY494/s640/PA190189.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 12</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-55_FLD8frl4/UmP1LHOf0MI/AAAAAAAAAc8/VFQk3z71mHs/s1600/PA190191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-55_FLD8frl4/UmP1LHOf0MI/AAAAAAAAAc8/VFQk3z71mHs/s640/PA190191.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 13</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Since we would hit the aid station again after running a two mile
loop, we just ran passed and planned to hit it on the way back. <br />
<br />
Shortly after leaving the aid station, I stopped again to check my shoe
for rocks. Since removing the rock at Mile 6, it had felt like I still
had a rock in it. No rock was found. I retied the shoe and started
running again, but I didn't tie the shoe tight enough. Since it still
felt like there was a rock in the shoe, I decided to completely remove
the shoe, sock, and insole to make sure nothing was there. I also
scraped off the mud to make sure that nothing was poking through the
sole of the shoe. After nothing was found, I decided that my foot must
have been bruised and I would just have to push it out of my mind. I was starting to slow during this section and made it a point to walk most of the hills during the 2nd loop. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6M_Mo4vkY2c/UmP1L4eKn_I/AAAAAAAAAdA/ofo4jHbneNQ/s1600/PA190195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6M_Mo4vkY2c/UmP1L4eKn_I/AAAAAAAAAdA/ofo4jHbneNQ/s640/PA190195.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 14</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I reached the aid station for the 2nd time, I refilled both my bottle with Tailwind and grabbed two more pouches that contained pre-measured amounts of Tailwind for when the bottles need to be refilled again. I decided it was time to eat something and grabbed a few pringles, a couple of small cookies, and a small pastry.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xQK2zRtgVzQ/UmP1N0ITO9I/AAAAAAAAAdM/W44V7SogCa8/s1600/PA190202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xQK2zRtgVzQ/UmP1N0ITO9I/AAAAAAAAAdM/W44V7SogCa8/s640/PA190202.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving the aid station after Mile 15</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I thanked the volunteers and headed back onto the trails.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FvUNYrtfBkI/UmP1Yw5fy7I/AAAAAAAAAdU/EjgkMqjyBrM/s1600/PA190203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FvUNYrtfBkI/UmP1Yw5fy7I/AAAAAAAAAdU/EjgkMqjyBrM/s640/PA190203.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 16</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5VUmDC2kdT0/UmP1ahTNhWI/AAAAAAAAAdc/6ByXTUb50PU/s1600/PA190204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5VUmDC2kdT0/UmP1ahTNhWI/AAAAAAAAAdc/6ByXTUb50PU/s640/PA190204.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 16</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was having a little pain near the right hip, but it was sporadic so I pushed onward. I would walk any hill and run the flats and downhill sections. The pace obviously slowed, but not too terrible. My goal at this point was still coming in just under seven hours so I wasn't worried about time, I was just wanting to manage the race so I could finish. The miles were getting more tiring, but the time still seemed to fly by and I managed to make it to the aid station at Mile 21 a little before noon feeling tired, hurting a little, but not too bad. I was still in good spirits and having a blast.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rkjPBi6vDjI/UmP1c5NCMeI/AAAAAAAAAdk/X0Glk2Unur0/s1600/PA190205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rkjPBi6vDjI/UmP1c5NCMeI/AAAAAAAAAdk/X0Glk2Unur0/s640/PA190205.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 18</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OUDdGVaCe_s/UmP1n4N-1lI/AAAAAAAAAds/cdb3yLAIyQ8/s1600/PA190208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OUDdGVaCe_s/UmP1n4N-1lI/AAAAAAAAAds/cdb3yLAIyQ8/s640/PA190208.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 20. Some evil person put the chair out to coax runner to sit down. I avoided the temptation.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RftYX9Nd7_E/UmP1rXsJyXI/AAAAAAAAAd0/FC3iIof9h94/s1600/PA190210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RftYX9Nd7_E/UmP1rXsJyXI/AAAAAAAAAd0/FC3iIof9h94/s640/PA190210.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aid station at Mile 21.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At the aid station, I drank some coke and ginger ale, refilled a water bottle with Tailwind, and grabbed a few pringles. After thanking the volunteers, I set back out on the trails.<br />
<br />
Things were going well for a while, but during mile 24ish, I rammed my right foot into a rock and hit the ground hard. My right knee hit first, then my forearms took the brunt of the force. It felt like I rolled and leapt back to my feet fairly quickly. According to Jonathan, the fall was graceful. I dusted myself off, checked the mud-caked areas for cuts/blood, and continued down the trail.<br />
<br />
After a while my right forearm started to hurt, like it had been bruised during the fall. Other than the bruised arm I was starting to feel really food again. I commented that the fall must have fixed something because I had a second wind. The running sections were growing longer and the walking sections shorter. Don't get me wrong, I was still tired, my hip was still hurting sporadically, but I was having a blast and moving forward.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qga9AEr2HL8/UmP1shI_O4I/AAAAAAAAAd8/dXVSos5EaSU/s1600/PA190212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qga9AEr2HL8/UmP1shI_O4I/AAAAAAAAAd8/dXVSos5EaSU/s640/PA190212.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 22</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zSVjuhf4PtA/UmP1zTumWcI/AAAAAAAAAeE/SsdjP9ADR-Y/s1600/PA190216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zSVjuhf4PtA/UmP1zTumWcI/AAAAAAAAAeE/SsdjP9ADR-Y/s640/PA190216.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Mile 25. Due to an unstable section of trail, we were routed up the side of the hill and back on to the trail when safe.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G3ZmbdFDQLw/UmP11fhM6yI/AAAAAAAAAeM/-QiGO-v0eCI/s1600/PA190217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G3ZmbdFDQLw/UmP11fhM6yI/AAAAAAAAAeM/-QiGO-v0eCI/s640/PA190217.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flags guiding the way off the trail</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At about Mile 27, my left knee started to complain. I started to believe I had a chance at sub-6:00 as long as my knee would hold out. I trudged along and started to slow. I figured if I made it to the main aid station at 5.5 hours, I would have a shot. I made it to the aid station fifteen minutes later than needed and stopped to drink some coke and ginger ale. Another runner came into the station shortly after I did. I made it a goal to stay ahead of him and headed out to finish the 2 mile loop. I was hoping to finish before the race clock showed 6:10, but at my current pace, plus the big hill leading up to the finish line, I knew it would be close. I trudged on running as long as my knee allowed it. I walked the hills, but was still able to run short distances of the flats and run all of the downhill sections. I finished the two mile loop quicker than I expected and made it to the bottom of the hill with five minutes to go. I thanked the volunteers and started to powerwalk up the hill. I started to run just before cresting the hill. People started to cheer and I tried to run it in. I crossed the finish line and felt awesome. I had finally achieved a goal that I had been trying to reach for several years now. To say I was happy would be a major understatement. I far surpassed my expectations and had a blast doing so. I definitely call the race a success!<br />
<br />
The volunteers throughout the race played a huge part of getting me to finish the race. Every time I left an aid station, I had renewed determination and a little energy boost. To all the volunteers, THANK YOU!<br />
<br />
And now for some photos taken by Kristi and Rick Mayo:<br />
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<br />Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-70601043705409940552013-09-15T14:32:00.000-05:002013-09-15T15:39:51.512-05:00Hawk Marathon - RR<b>What:</b> Hawk Marathon<br />
<b>When: </b>September 14, 2013<br />
<b>Where:</b> Clinton Lake, Lawrence, KS<br />
<b>Finish Time:</b> 5:42:xx<br />
<br />
<b>Background</b>:<br />
I decided to run this race back on August 10th. I ran 5 miles in the morning and then ran another 15 miles that night during Coleen's Sweaty Ass Run. I registered for the marathon the following morning. This race was going to be my first official marathon. I made a makeshift plan for getting in long runs and started training for it the following weekend. I ended up with two 16 mile long runs and a half marathon. I also did an 11 mile run and a 9 mile run. My training was definitely what one would call ideal.<br />
<br />
Starting about 9 days before the race, the morning after a 9 mile run, my lower back started to cause me problems. It was a struggle to stand up straight and I had issues with sciatica. I stretched it out and used a foam roller nightly. Two days after the back issues and a week before the marathon, I ran a half marathon. At about Mile 7 of the half, my back started hurting and forced me to walk. I had to walk the majority of the remainder of the half, as such, I was in serious doubt concerning being able to run the marathon.<br />
<br />
I had three chiropractic appointments in the week leading up to the marathon and it helped. My back felt better after the last appointment on Thursday so I went to the weekly Thursday night trail run. I ran about 3 easy miles and my back was tight, but didn't cause any pain. On Friday morning, the back was once again tight and causing a bit of pain. It was better after a few hours of moving around so I decided to go ahead and run the marathon.<br />
<br />
<b>Race Morning</b>:<br />
The marathon was associated with a 50 mile and 100 mile race. The longer races started at 6:00 and since a friend was running the 100 miler, I wanted to get there before they took off. Since the race was about an hour away, that meant I had to leave by 4:30 to ensure I got there on time. I woke up early, drank coffee and ate a bowl of cereal, then headed out after, how should I say this, nature took it's course. I got there in time, wished him luck, then set about preparing for the marathon which started an hour later. My hydration consisted of a Nathan belt with two 10oz containers filled
with tailwind endurance fuel drink mix. I also had six small (2"x1") Ziploc bags filled with measured amounts of the tailwind mix for when
my bottles needed to be refilled. I planned on eating whatever they had
at the aid stations for additional fuel as needed.<br />
<br />
Finally, <b>The Race</b>:<br />
Since I was not prepared to actually race, I decided to use this marathon as a long run to see how far off I was from being able to run a 50K. A good friend of mine, Sarah, agreed to let me tag along with her during the race. It made the race a blast and it seemed to go by quickly. <br />
<br />
Now I don't remember mile-by-mile details, so this part will be lighter on text, but heavy on pictures. If you just want to see the pictures, just scroll to after the text.<br />
<br />
The race started at 7:00 and we were off. I had to keep reminding myself not to go out with everyone as they passed us by on the short pavement section. <br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
The marathon started with a 1.2 mile section and then started on the
25 mile course that the other races were held on. This section was nice
and easy which made for a great warm-up section. Toward the end of it,
were starting to hit our stride.<br />
<br />
The 25 mile course was
a different beast with a lot of rocky and rooty technical singletrack,
some large boulder hopping, long grassy hills in the open sun, and a few
short pavement sections.<br />
<br />
The first half of the race
went really well. For the first 8ish miles we hung with a group being
paced by one of our friends. It was fun and filled with some classic one
liners such as "do you want to take some ibuprofen prophylactically?"
Naturally, the medical definition was not the first meaning that came to
mind. It was quickly followed by "hearing that just made running the
marathon worth it."<br />
<br />
Somewhere around the 8-9 mile point
we broke from the group and started picking it up a bit. Shortly after
splitting from the pack we came to a section of trail near the lake that
included large rocks/boulders, some could be avoided, for others, we had to
do some rock hopping. This was a fun section for me!<br />
<br />
In
another mile or two we hit our second aid station. From there, we ran
along the road and up a grassy path to a section known as bunker hill.
This was my least favorite section as it was a 2.5 mile out & back
grassy path that was in full sun. Our pace slowed here and we were
looking forward to getting back to the aid station. Once there, we would
be over half way done. While running on the short pavement section, my back started complaining a bit. With the jarring from each footfall on the pavement, I would feel the pain in my lower back get more intense. I couldn't wait to get back onto the trails.</div>
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Upon leaving the aid station, we entered the trails again. Our pace, and our spirits, instantly picked back up. Shortly after re-entering the trails, I took an ibuprofen to see if it would lessen the tightness/soreness of my lower back. It seemed to work because after running for about a mile, my back was no longer complaining. </div>
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We soon hit the 17 mile point and I was surprised by how good I was still feeling. We started slowly picking off runners in front of us. Somehow some Elmer Fudd accents started being used as we saw a runner in the distance..."be very very quiet, it's wunner season, I'm hunting wunners." Also, I can neither confirm nor deny whether or not a little "Boom Shake the Room" from the Fresh Prince was sung. It might have been, it might not have been, I'll let you decide. </div>
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Somewhere after mile 18, I noted that we finally had single digit mileage remaining until we were finished. That's when Sarah said she saw the 8-mile trail marker a little while ago and that one of the race directors told her that once we reached that, the mile markers matched the remaining mileage.</div>
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By Mile 19, my left knee was feeling a little tired. I took one more ibuprofen and kept on truckin. I was enjoying running on the trails. We were both getting tired and looking forward to the next, and last, aid station. We would once again see some friends and were hoping to get a nice energy boost. From the aid station, we only had 6.5 miles remaining.</div>
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We arrived at the aid station and I had my water bottles refilled for the last stretch. Upon leaving we were re-energized, but it was short-lived. I started looking forward to seeing the mile markers counting down. I saw the mile 6 marker, but never saw the mile 5 marker. Sarah and I were commenting on how this was the longest mile ever. If the next mile marker was not for mile 4, I would have been deflated. Thankfully, we came up to the next mile marker and it had a 4 on it! That alone seemed to re-energize me. I was still tired and slowing, but my mood had increased. I am certain that if Sarah was not running with me, I would have walked much of the remaining miles. I was thankful for having a friend running the race with me.</div>
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Surprisingly, we were still picking off other runners. I lamented that in the second half of the race we have passed quite a few runners and were only passed by one runner. I call that running a successful race. When we reached the mile 3 marker, it finally donned on me that I was actually going to finish running, rather than walking. I was tired, but still feeling pretty good. That alone was quite motivating. </div>
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Our goal kept changing throughout the race. At first, it was just to
finish. Then after noticing we were on pace for a 6:00 time, that became
our goal.Our goal then became under 5:45, was later changed to 5:50 as were became more tired. Then after the mile 3 marker, we changed it back to sub-5:45. We figured we could do it, but it would be close. </div>
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We finally reached the mile 1 marker and tried to pick up the pace. It felt like we were moving along well. The final section on the trail seemed to fly by and soon we were out of the trail and just had .2 flat miles to the finish. As soon as we saw the finish, we "kicked" it in. </div>
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This was probably the most fun that I had at a race. It was a great way to spend the morning and I finished knowing that I will register for the 50K on October 19th. Now I just need to develop a short training regimen.</div>
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The food at the finish was awesome, cookie, burgers, pasta, brownies, cake, they basically had it all. It was great watching friends finish. After finishing, I shot the breeze with friends while watching runners come through. It felt good to relax and even better to take the shoes off. I probably chatted for a couple of hours, then called it a day. </div>
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I couldn't have asked for a better race, considering the 10 days I had leading up to it. This was a great experience and just confirmed that I love running the longer distance races. Next up will be a 50K around Lake Perry.<br />
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No report would be complete without a huge THANK YOU to all of the volunteers. It was great seeing several of my friends(Bryan, Janee, Wayne) out there on the course and at the aid stations. </div>
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Now it's time for a lot of photos. These were taken while out on the course.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6wEnkWE95Og/UjUULEp-A-I/AAAAAAAAAVI/CUG5rMOf5T4/s1600/P9140139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6wEnkWE95Og/UjUULEp-A-I/AAAAAAAAAVI/CUG5rMOf5T4/s640/P9140139.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Shortly after starting.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HiaEcMfckW0/UjUUZMHG5oI/AAAAAAAAAVw/hAXMGXMD1BU/s1600/P9140140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HiaEcMfckW0/UjUUZMHG5oI/AAAAAAAAAVw/hAXMGXMD1BU/s640/P9140140.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I believe this was entering the 25 mile course.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t74CA2jaGl8/UjUUMyBSlwI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/xAIOuWtaRo0/s1600/P9140148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t74CA2jaGl8/UjUUMyBSlwI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/xAIOuWtaRo0/s640/P9140148.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 2<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mZlaHH_DXtY/UjUURL7fhuI/AAAAAAAAAVY/2kaouwNWW74/s1600/P9140149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mZlaHH_DXtY/UjUURL7fhuI/AAAAAAAAAVY/2kaouwNWW74/s640/P9140149.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 2<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn4qsZA_Uis/UjUUSGaKeCI/AAAAAAAAAVg/xD0hA9ibJBM/s1600/P9140150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn4qsZA_Uis/UjUUSGaKeCI/AAAAAAAAAVg/xD0hA9ibJBM/s640/P9140150.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 2<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TEiWACh4Acw/UjUUVF659hI/AAAAAAAAAVo/tU8apBIO0jc/s1600/P9140151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TEiWACh4Acw/UjUUVF659hI/AAAAAAAAAVo/tU8apBIO0jc/s640/P9140151.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 2<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NmyLEh049_U/UjUUck7nQgI/AAAAAAAAAWA/oq1lFoZhvp4/s1600/P9140153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NmyLEh049_U/UjUUck7nQgI/AAAAAAAAAWA/oq1lFoZhvp4/s640/P9140153.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 2: jogging backwards to take a photo.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PQBdVvLnwbI/UjUUZkZyq9I/AAAAAAAAAV0/EEtFBQyfQsI/s1600/P9140155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PQBdVvLnwbI/UjUUZkZyq9I/AAAAAAAAAV0/EEtFBQyfQsI/s640/P9140155.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 2<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zmxHGnBvpWo/UjUUk6mLtnI/AAAAAAAAAWY/4otcyfAaLAQ/s1600/P9140157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zmxHGnBvpWo/UjUUk6mLtnI/AAAAAAAAAWY/4otcyfAaLAQ/s640/P9140157.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 2<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_VgC7hf_qYI/UjUUfVnkmiI/AAAAAAAAAWI/sYBPFlnDwWY/s1600/P9140162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_VgC7hf_qYI/UjUUfVnkmiI/AAAAAAAAAWI/sYBPFlnDwWY/s640/P9140162.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 3<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O8iyZpO63ss/UjUUhtRutFI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/r_IKV0HyNm0/s1600/P9140164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O8iyZpO63ss/UjUUhtRutFI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/r_IKV0HyNm0/s640/P9140164.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 3<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DTRuUjuRgM0/UjUUu8tqAkI/AAAAAAAAAWw/hhn3ptK7aKs/s1600/P9140166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DTRuUjuRgM0/UjUUu8tqAkI/AAAAAAAAAWw/hhn3ptK7aKs/s640/P9140166.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 3<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WZJh3hPR_s8/UjUUnvyqmNI/AAAAAAAAAWg/3rPcpLst0Uk/s1600/P9140168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WZJh3hPR_s8/UjUUnvyqmNI/AAAAAAAAAWg/3rPcpLst0Uk/s640/P9140168.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 4<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B3B-Pzs_yEA/UjUUqeopwAI/AAAAAAAAAWo/xA_q4nzsUcI/s1600/P9140170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B3B-Pzs_yEA/UjUUqeopwAI/AAAAAAAAAWo/xA_q4nzsUcI/s640/P9140170.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 4<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TWXSPlx77ag/UjUUuugR66I/AAAAAAAAAW0/Raaeyv7zt1I/s1600/P9140173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TWXSPlx77ag/UjUUuugR66I/AAAAAAAAAW0/Raaeyv7zt1I/s640/P9140173.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 6<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PfnheH1zD-o/UjUU1Kkh-YI/AAAAAAAAAXE/OuTlJD_6ZR0/s1600/P9140176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PfnheH1zD-o/UjUU1Kkh-YI/AAAAAAAAAXE/OuTlJD_6ZR0/s640/P9140176.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 7<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2brRshhE-g/UjUU06ke5oI/AAAAAAAAAXA/New2dCKyKzM/s1600/P9140177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2brRshhE-g/UjUU06ke5oI/AAAAAAAAAXA/New2dCKyKzM/s640/P9140177.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 7<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s1m1iWT_uXk/UjUU5WgQQVI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/al0kErNsdew/s1600/P9140180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s1m1iWT_uXk/UjUU5WgQQVI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/al0kErNsdew/s640/P9140180.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 7<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oa7PPSpEozg/UjUVAOhuTBI/AAAAAAAAAXk/lc8_hBc34yE/s1600/P9140181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oa7PPSpEozg/UjUVAOhuTBI/AAAAAAAAAXk/lc8_hBc34yE/s640/P9140181.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 7<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1cUg9mz1zEo/UjUU-WnGzHI/AAAAAAAAAXY/CMg1Gh3ndzM/s1600/P9140182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1cUg9mz1zEo/UjUU-WnGzHI/AAAAAAAAAXY/CMg1Gh3ndzM/s640/P9140182.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 8<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OucILSYVqnQ/UjUU_3Qz7nI/AAAAAAAAAXg/l1zpWjv6rnw/s1600/P9140188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OucILSYVqnQ/UjUU_3Qz7nI/AAAAAAAAAXg/l1zpWjv6rnw/s640/P9140188.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 10<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w_rVTQRZiB0/UjUVFI39tTI/AAAAAAAAAXw/67q_yIk3MDU/s1600/P9140189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w_rVTQRZiB0/UjUVFI39tTI/AAAAAAAAAXw/67q_yIk3MDU/s640/P9140189.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 10<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9addMKq2miM/UjUVMldkKEI/AAAAAAAAAYE/6EUsiAb-vhk/s1600/P9140190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9addMKq2miM/UjUVMldkKEI/AAAAAAAAAYE/6EUsiAb-vhk/s640/P9140190.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 11<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VPhxXLrXuPg/UjUVGAcKnRI/AAAAAAAAAX4/Ysrx8WLQGG0/s1600/P9140192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VPhxXLrXuPg/UjUVGAcKnRI/AAAAAAAAAX4/Ysrx8WLQGG0/s640/P9140192.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 11<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e8vdcMiyPh0/UjUVO6gMCmI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/9Qq8Cj1JG4g/s1600/P9140199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e8vdcMiyPh0/UjUVO6gMCmI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/9Qq8Cj1JG4g/s640/P9140199.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 13 - These geese just wouldn't pose for me.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ewSU9WOrRYU/UjUVLGI1YoI/AAAAAAAAAYA/YwYc6BVp8Lk/s1600/P9140202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ewSU9WOrRYU/UjUVLGI1YoI/AAAAAAAAAYA/YwYc6BVp8Lk/s640/P9140202.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 13<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-usA0NSzHG5U/UjUVSVJKYxI/AAAAAAAAAYY/Js38H4P5i3Y/s1600/P9140203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-usA0NSzHG5U/UjUVSVJKYxI/AAAAAAAAAYY/Js38H4P5i3Y/s640/P9140203.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 13<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SdHFaRe0VNo/UjUVVdEUD3I/AAAAAAAAAYg/kqoRZ1e2oyk/s1600/P9140204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SdHFaRe0VNo/UjUVVdEUD3I/AAAAAAAAAYg/kqoRZ1e2oyk/s640/P9140204.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 14<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uQiGGK1flkU/UjUVlQBwdKI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/YDg3S0bV2To/s1600/P9140211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uQiGGK1flkU/UjUVlQBwdKI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/YDg3S0bV2To/s640/P9140211.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 16<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TOPJzQrzcA8/UjUVYUgbvEI/AAAAAAAAAYo/4sfne-SFqPo/s1600/P9140215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TOPJzQrzcA8/UjUVYUgbvEI/AAAAAAAAAYo/4sfne-SFqPo/s640/P9140215.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 17<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2amUQBk6AQ8/UjUVa2TeVlI/AAAAAAAAAYw/lx38ZF79Q5Y/s1600/P9140220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2amUQBk6AQ8/UjUVa2TeVlI/AAAAAAAAAYw/lx38ZF79Q5Y/s640/P9140220.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 19<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ezQqUusgjWE/UjUVd0TyhsI/AAAAAAAAAY4/rdGzbHW7TRg/s1600/P9140221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ezQqUusgjWE/UjUVd0TyhsI/AAAAAAAAAY4/rdGzbHW7TRg/s640/P9140221.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 20<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qBIGijrvAi8/UjUVg1ACF9I/AAAAAAAAAZA/aWw-CGqNu-g/s1600/P9140222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qBIGijrvAi8/UjUVg1ACF9I/AAAAAAAAAZA/aWw-CGqNu-g/s640/P9140222.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 21<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fKCQa6WDCs4/UjUVjTeLduI/AAAAAAAAAZI/LMvCQC4XKOU/s1600/P9140223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fKCQa6WDCs4/UjUVjTeLduI/AAAAAAAAAZI/LMvCQC4XKOU/s640/P9140223.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Mile 22<br />
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Mile 22 - There is a young buck hiding in the trees. <br />
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Mile 22<br />
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Mile 23<br />
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Happy first time marathoners!<br />
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Cool finishers medal!</div>
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<b> </b>Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-65720184172217255892013-06-23T11:12:00.000-05:002013-06-23T11:12:02.692-05:00Rock the Night Away Half Marathon RR<b>What:</b> Rock the Night Away Half Marathon<br />
<b>Where: </b>Lake Perry, KS<br />
<b>When:</b> 8:30 p.m. on Friday, June 21, 2013<br />
<b>Weather:</b> 86F with a heat index of 91F<br />
<b>Finish Time:</b> 2:42<br />
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<b>Race Week:</b><br />
My running this week had not been going so well. I think it's mostly due to the humidity we had been experiencing, but am not sure. I did a short 2.8 mile easy paced trail run on Thursday night and could not get my breathing down. My legs were fresh, my HR was OK (high end of easy pace), but it just felt like I couldn't breathe.<b> </b><br />
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<b>Pre-Race:</b><br />
I woke up at 4:00 a.m., packed my tent, beer, water, and food in the car and made it to work by 5:30. I was hoping to leave a bit earlier, but I ended up leaving work around 4:15, drove home, changed, loaded forgotten items, and drove to the race location.<br />
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I arrived at the location around 6:00 and relaxed for a bit. I finally decided to set up my tent around 7:00. I mingled with other runners including a trio who were running a 12 hour race starting at 7:00 in Omaha, NE on Saturday morning. Since my tent was near the starting line, I lined up when we had close to 5 minutes to go.<br />
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Facing the front of the line.<br />
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Facing behind me.<br />
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At 8:30, we were off. We start running down a dirt road and then turn into the trails. Once in the trails, passing was at a premium since it is mostly rocky, technical singletrack. <br />
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Unfortunately, I can not give a mile by mile break down, but I'll still provide details when I can.<br />
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The first mile I was having fun and felt good, but I knew I went out too fast when the first mile came in at 9:42. This, coupled with the humidity would lead to my disastrous first half, or at least that's what I thought.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pTB5ymoZjFU/Ucb-k3LmoZI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/YZqx9s2U-e0/s1600/RocktheNight_2013-226.jpg"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pTB5ymoZjFU/Ucb-k3LmoZI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/YZqx9s2U-e0/s640/RocktheNight_2013-226.jpg" width="426" /></a><br />
Shortly after entering the trails. Yep, I'm happy at this point. (Photo courtesy of Rick/Kristi Mayo)<br />
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First photo I took while running. It was taken early in te first mile.<br />
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Miles 2-4 were mostly a blur as I alternated between feeling OK and feeling crappy all the time. I walked the hills and ran the flat/downhill sections. I was fighting with my hydration pack the whole time and was getting very frustrated with it. Plus, it seemed to increase how bad the humidity made me feel. I decided that I would ditch the pack at the staffed aid station before heading out for the 2nd loop. I won't lie though, thoughts of dropping to the 10K did cross my mind.<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TxkhnwhsAq8/Ucb4iLAWMxI/AAAAAAAAARk/TdeUTKkp7dc/s1600/P6210124.JPG"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TxkhnwhsAq8/Ucb4iLAWMxI/AAAAAAAAARk/TdeUTKkp7dc/s640/P6210124.JPG" /></a><br />
Early in Mile 2.<br />
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Around the beginning of Mile 3.<br />
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Early into Mile 3.<br />
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You can tell I was feeling crappy by the lack of photos during that section. I was just focusing on moving forward that taking photos never really occurred to me. The following photo should give an indication of how I was feeling, it was taken at around the halfway point as I was coming to the staffed aid station. We pass this station a total of 4 times as it is situated between the main trails and a 2 mile loop section. The photo was taken as I was exiting the 2 mile loop.<br />
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Photo courtesy of Rick/Kristi Mayo.<br />
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I spent quite a bit of time at the aid station. The volunteers were awesome and very much appreciated. Amber refilled one of my bottles and stored my pack as I mentioned that I didn't want to take it for the next loop. Shawn gave me watermelon and asked me multiple times if I was OK. After I recovered a bit, I took an S!CAP, drank some heed, and went back on the trail. Luke and another volunteer provided encouragement as I headed out for the 2nd loop.<br />
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Taken shortly after starting the 2nd loop during Mile 7.<br />
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I started off feeling better the 2nd loop and had renewed motivation, until I hit what I like to call the motivation killer. I was running along feeling good then BLAM, my left foot caught a root that was sticking up about a foot of the ground. It was about the diameter of a dime and just looked like a weed going across the trail. I stumbled forward, quickened my steps, and somehow managed not to take a spectacular faceplant. When I went back and saw the root, I could tell that others have tripped over it. I took out some of my frustration by ripping it from the ground to the point that it split in half. It would no longer be able to trip anyone else.<br />
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After the confrontation with the root, I walked a bit to make sure my ankle was fine as I have had issues with my left ankle in the past. I then started to notice some soreness on the left side of my upper leg. I took note of it and gave myself permission to walk if it ever worsened. At that point, I started running again. When I ran, I felt good and it felt like I was flying. Unfortunately, my mindset switched from trying to finish before 2:30 to just ensuring I finished. I say unfortunately, because I know I left a good 8-10 minutes on the trail, all during the 2nd half. I felt like I was running faster, but when I cam up to people walking, I gave myself permission to walk. Now I don't mean walking the hills, that was planned, these walk breaks were on the flat/downhill sections. I would eventually snap myself back to reality and pass them. This went on until I made it to the staffed aid station and began the last 2 miles of trails before heading back up the dirt road to the finish.<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uHHPjOL_oCc/Ucb4moO4l5I/AAAAAAAAASI/r0CIMBoET9o/s1600/P6210131.JPG"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uHHPjOL_oCc/Ucb4moO4l5I/AAAAAAAAASI/r0CIMBoET9o/s640/P6210131.JPG" /></a><br />
a dry creek crossing on the main loop, taken during Mile 7. <br />
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About halfway through Mile 8. <br />
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The next three photos were taken within close proximity to each other during Mile 8.<br />
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Near the end of Mile 8.<br />
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Near the beginning of Mile 9. <br />
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On the other side of the curve from the previous picture. I turned around to snap a photo of the log.<br />
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About halfway through Mile 9.<br />
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Somewhere in Mile 9, I passed a group of 4 or 5 young guys while they were on a walk break. Shortly after I passed them, they caught up and passed me. I would catch up to them again probably about 4-5 minutes before reaching the staffed aid station.<br />
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I approached the staffed aid station for the 3rd time and was
actually feeling good so I just ran through to the encouragement of my
friends who volunteered. <br />
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A little more than halfway through Mile 10 after starting the 2 mile loop section.<br />
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A little more than halfway through Mile 10 after starting the 2 mile loop section.<br />
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Taken along the 2 mile loop section of trail during Mile 12.<br />
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About two minutes after entering the 2 mile loop, I passed another runner. He tagged along for a bit and we chatted, but I eventually pulled ahead and didn't hear his foot steps.<br />
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I came upon one of my friends, Danny, and walked for bit as it was a much needed break. I then heard foot steps approaching and started running again. Shortly after I started running I came to a hill and walked. During this point, two of the group of young guys that I had passed before the staffed aid station, passed me by as words of encouragement were shared.<br />
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I came down the last hill and passed by the aid station while thanking them for their help. They cheered me along and I was soon walking up the last hill. About halfway through the hill I started running again. I finished the hill, turned and headed toward the finish line.<br />
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The following pics were taken by Rick/Kristi Mayo, as usual, they did a great job taking photos!<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0rN9zfQ99FI/Ucb-kO8GfNI/AAAAAAAAAUE/EOUQ3IKOH1o/s1600/RocktheNight_2013-981.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0rN9zfQ99FI/Ucb-kO8GfNI/AAAAAAAAAUE/EOUQ3IKOH1o/s640/RocktheNight_2013-981.jpg" /></a><br />
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Yes, my eyes are closing. I am relieved to be done!<br />
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I am clenching a driver's license that I found shortly after starting the 2nd loop. Thankfully, I found the person who lost it as they didn't even realize it was missing.<br />
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Exhausted and receiving the finisher's medal from the race director, Bad Ben Holmes.<br />
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Although I did not achieve my original goal, I am still pleased with the race. I struggled mentally during the 2nd half, but would eventually snap myself out of it and continue on. In the past, I would have just walked the remainder of the race. Heck, I would have stopped and dropped down to the 10K. So to me, just pushing through to the finish is an accomplishment. I celebrated that accomplishment with some well earned beer!<br />
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Thanks to Ben and the stellar volunteers for putting on another great race! Now it's time to hit the trails as I try and train for my first 50K in October.<br />
<br />
Eric<br />
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Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-25422424895538278522013-06-01T17:56:00.000-05:002013-06-01T18:07:44.735-05:00Hospital Hill Run Half Marathon RR<b>What:</b> Hospital Hill Run half marathon<br />
<b>When:</b> Saturday, June 1st, 2013<br />
<b>Where:</b> Kansas City, Missouri<br />
<b>Weather: </b>62-64F with 72% humidity @ start and 54% at the finish.<br />
<b>Goal:</b> Sub-2 hours<br />
<b>Finish: </b>1:53:52 (6 Mile: 52:36; 9 Mile: 1:18:04)<br />
<b>O/A</b>: 1147/4239<br />
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<b>Background:</b><br />
This is race could be considered my "white whale." It <strike>is</strike><b> </b>was the only road half marathon that I have not finished in under two hours. In 2012 I finished in 2:22:46; 2011 - 2:03:43 (my previous best at this race). The website didn't have links to the results from 2010 or 2009. Some issue always seems to raise its ugly head during the race. In 2012 I had both ITBs scream no joy; 2011 - I had to walk some hills due to the heat; and in 2010 I had ITB issues.<br />
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This year, I really thought that sub-2:00 would be extremely difficult since I have not trained on any hills. I take that back, to get in some hill work, I ran the Rock On, Lake Perry trail half marathon and then 1 week later ran the KC Corporate Challenge half marathon (05/18/31). During both previous half marathons, I fought off cramping issues during the last half mile. I decided to make changes to my racing strategy and see how it paned out.<br />
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<b>Race:</b><br />
The race started at 7:00 and I had about 20 minutes to drive to make it to the starting area. Since I work near the start/finish line, I decided to leave my house around 5:00 and just relax and listen to some tunes in my office (cubicle). Another bonus about working near the start/finish area, ready access to real restrooms.<br />
<b> </b><br />
After listening to some tunes to get me pumped up for the race, I headed down to the start area at about 6:30ish. There was already a lot of people lined up in the various corrals. I made my way to Corral C and looked for the 2:00 pacer. They ended up being in Corral D, so I decided to line up in the back of Corral C and try to keep the 1:55 pacers in sight. Shortly after I lined up, Karina, a friend from Nebraska found me and we chatted for about five minutes before wishing each other luck.<br />
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With about 15 minutes before start time, I turned on my Garmin so it could lock on to the satellites. While waiting, I decided to snap a few photos.<br />
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Standing at the back of Corral C, facing the Start line.<br />
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Facing the runners behind me. <br />
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Showing how the line of people continues around the corner,<br />
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After a moment of silence for the Boston victims, and the victims of the OK tornadoes, a gal did a good job singing the national anthem and then the wheelchair racers started at 6:55. My Garmin still hadn't locked on to any satellites, so I turned it off/on to start the process again. Corral A started at 7:00 and I again turned my Garmin off/on to attempt to get the stupid thing to work. Corral B left about 2-3 minutes later, followed by us after another 2-3 minute pause.<br />
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Since I had to fight off cramping issues during the last two half marathons I decided to start using S!CAPS again. I stopped because I would drink way too much water when I took one every 30 minutes. I decided to only take two during the half marathon and see how that worked for me.<br />
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Since my Garmin still hadn't locked on to satellites after about 3 minutes of running, I turned it off/on one more time. As soon as it was turned back on, it locked on to the satellites. Since I couldn't rely on my Garmin for the first mile, I caught up with the 1:55 pacers and decided to let them do the work for me. The first mile starts with a gentle half mile downhill, then is level to a slight incline for the rest of the mile. As soon as I started running, I started getting tightness in my left heel. The tightness finally went away at the end of the first mile. Since my Garmin started late (about 0.35 miles late) I don't have an accurate time for the first mile. As soon as I hit the Mile 1 marker, I pushed the lap button so I could get an idea of how the miles were going.<br />
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Shortly after starting.<br />
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Near the end of Mile 1. I am catching up with the 1:55 pacers.<br />
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Mile 2 is generally uphill. I worked my way up to the 1:55 pacers and ran alongside the lead pacer for a while. I started focusing on my breathing, shortening my stride up the hill, and taking stock in how I was feeling. The humidity seemed high, but since it wasn't really hot, it wasn't affecting me much. I finished Mile 2 at about a 9:11 pace.<br />
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Near the beginning of Mile 2.<br />
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Near the end of Mile 2.<br />
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Mile 3 starts uphill, but most of it is completely downhill. I slowly picked up speed and hit my groove. Some people flew down the hill, but I ended up passing most of them back during the later stages of the race. I believed that if I ran hard downhill, I would use up energy that I needed later in the race. So I pushed the pace a bit, but let gravity do most the work for me. I finished Mile 3 in roughly 8:35.<br />
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Near the start of Mile 3.<br />
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Near the start of Mile 3.<br />
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Near the end of Mile 3.<br />
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Mile 4 continues downhill which is shown in my pace. I finished Mile 4 in roughly 8:14. I believe it was during this mile that one of my friends, Scott, came up alongside me. We ended up chatting off and on and pacing off each other for most of the race. It definitely helped pass the time. We started near the lead pacer, but decided to ease up a bit. We still stayed between the two 1:55 pacers. It was during this mile that I started dumping water over my head at the rest of the aid stations. I had a waist belt with two bottles on and used that for any water I wanted to drink.<br />
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Near the start of Mile 4.<br />
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Near the end of Mile 4.<br />
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Mile 5 starts uphill, then goes downhill for about a half mile, then goes uphill for the remainder of the mile. I started focusing more on running my own race and less with keeping up with the pacer. I figured as long as I could keep the 1:55 pacers in sight, I would finish in under two hours. I finished Mile 5 in roughly 8:21.<br />
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About halfway through Mile 5.<br />
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Mile 6 is basically a gently rolling section of the course. It was
during this mile that I took my first S!CAP. I also let the 1:55 pacers
get a little further ahead and started to walk for a short time at the
water stations. Due to walking at the water station, I finished Mile 6 in roughly 8:58.<br />
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About halfway through Mile 6. <br />
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Mile 7 starts downhill for about the first half mile, then starts to climb back up, dips down, and finishes uphill. The pacers were pulling a further ahead, but I decided to stick with my plan and run my own race. Since my main goal was a sub-2:00 time, I was still well on track and didn't worry about the 1:55 pacers pulling further ahead. I finished Mile 7 in roughly 8:28.<br />
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Near the end of Mile 7.<br />
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Mile 8 starts uphill, but goes downhill for the majority of the mile, with a little hill towards the end of the mile. I started feeling a little bit tired here, but still not too bad. I finished Mile 8 in roughly 8:47.<br />
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Near the start of Mile 8.<br />
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Near the end of Mile 8<br />
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Mile 9 is a gentle downhill mile and I took advantage of it to make up some more time. I finished it in roughly 8:19. <br />
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Near the start of Mile 9.<br />
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About 2/3 through Mile 9.<br />
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Mile 10 continues downhill, has a small gently rolling section, then ends going uphill. I finished in roughly 8:43.<br />
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About halfway through Mile 10.<br />
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Mile 11 is completely uphill and was also my slowest mile. Every other time I've ran this race, I had to walk the majority of the mile. This time, I ran it all except for a small portion during the water station. I finished it in roughly 9:31.<br />
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About halfway through Mile 11.<br />
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About 2/3 through Mile 11. I got a chuckle at the sign as I have always felt like a zombie during <br />
this mile.<br />
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Mile 12 is basically a gently rolling mile except for a short, but steep hill at the end of it. I walked the hill at the end and finished in roughly 8:51.<br />
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About halfway through Mile 12.<br />
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Mile 13 starts with a short uphill section, but then is downhill for the rest of the mile. I picked up the pace to catch the 1:55 pacers. As they came closer into view, I really started picking it up and caught the first pacer near the end of the mile. I finished the mile in roughly 8:03. <br />
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About 1/3 through Mile 13.<br />
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I was closing in on the lead 1:55 pacer and somehow found another gear. I ended up passing him about 150 feet before the finish line. According to the Garmin, I finished the final 0.2 miles at a 5:53/mile pace.<br />
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After finishing I grabbed some water, gatorade, and chocolate milk. I stretched a little, ate the post race BBQ (which was edible, but not what I would call good), went up to my office and stretched the calf muscles, then finally went to the beer garden. I was given an extra beer ticket from some random gal and ended up having 2 beers. Well, it might be stretch calling it beer since it was Michelob ultra. I ended up running into several friends in the beer garden (imagine that). As usual, a few of us Trail Nerds were basically the last people to leave the beer garden.<br />
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Drinking the post race beer and chilling with one of my friends, Jason.<br />
<br />
I am very happy with sticking to my race strategy and crushing my goal. It was a fun race and I feel I have finally turned a corner with my running. Now it's time to turn my focus to more trail running in hopes of running my first 50K in October. At least I know that I'll enjoy the training.<br />
<br />
Eric<br />
<br />Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-6395358059311378722013-05-12T15:48:00.001-05:002013-05-12T15:49:52.384-05:00Rock On, Lake Perry Half Marathon Race Report<!--[if !mso]>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">What:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> Rock On, Lake Perry HM</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">When:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> Saturday, May 11, 2013</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Where:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> Lake Perry, Meriden, Kansas</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Weather:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> cool and windy</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Goal:
</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">sub 2:30</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Finish:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> 2:26:34</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Background:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I had shoulder surgery
in December which put my running on the shelf for 8 weeks. For the first month,
I had to run with my arm in a sling, but in March, I was fully cleared to run.
Although I was cleared to run, I was still not cleared to run trails. I was
finally cleared for trail running in April. The only problem, with all the rain
we received, I only ran once on the trails for about 3 miles.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I had run multiple 8
mile runs, a couple of 10 mile runs, and one 13 mile run. Unfortunately, all
but one 10 mile run was on a flat, gravel park path. To say I was undertrained
is a bit of an understatement. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Race:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I left my house at about
5:50 and made it to the race location around 7:00. After picking up my race
packet, I relaxed and chatted with a few friends. At about 7:55 we started to
line up. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sOK9rk0t-Xk/UY_xsCXkTdI/AAAAAAAAAJs/oYFfZk3YhBM/s1600/P5110011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sOK9rk0t-Xk/UY_xsCXkTdI/AAAAAAAAAJs/oYFfZk3YhBM/s640/P5110011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-ignore: vglayout; position: relative; z-index: 251659242;"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sTmL9GS2v84/UY_x7NxlRyI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/eG2wqx7kNns/s1600/P5110013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sTmL9GS2v84/UY_x7NxlRyI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/eG2wqx7kNns/s640/P5110013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="height: 421px; left: 0px; position: absolute; top: -9px; width: 562px;"></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The race started at
8:00. We ran down the gravel road for a short distance and then turned into the
trails!</span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DJANOzJxgjA/UY_yKPdkf_I/AAAAAAAAAJ8/7mpAzcaSmSw/s1600/P5110014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DJANOzJxgjA/UY_yKPdkf_I/AAAAAAAAAJ8/7mpAzcaSmSw/s640/P5110014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="height: 421px; margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 12px; mso-ignore: vglayout; position: absolute; width: 562px; z-index: 251660266;"></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">For the first 5-6 miles
I was in a line of runners. At first the pace was great, but the front runner
would slow/walk on the technical descents, no matter how short. This became
increasingly frustrating, but I didn’t pass because they were pulling me along
on the hills. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
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<span style="height: 421px; left: 0px; position: absolute; top: -23px; width: 562px;"></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Congo line – Mile 1</span>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> Trail during Mile 2.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Trail during Mile 3.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">View from the trail
during Mile 3.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Trail during Mile 3, showing
1 of the many hills along the course.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> Running along the bluff
during Mile 3.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Line of runners during
Mile 4.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Trail during Mile 5.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Somewhere around Mile 6
we hit the first manned aid station. I took this opportunity to pass everyone
who stopped, and just breezed through. It felt good to be able to run for a
little while.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Shortly after passing
the aid station.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FXjC9aRZFgE/UY_ztxUuKRI/AAAAAAAAALM/AZxNdHT0RAM/s1600/P5110043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FXjC9aRZFgE/UY_ztxUuKRI/AAAAAAAAALM/AZxNdHT0RAM/s640/P5110043.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Trail during Mile 6.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">It took about 1.5 miles
before I was caught by one runner, and another half mile before a 2<sup>nd</sup>
passed me. At about the 9.5 -10 mile point my left knee started to complain a
little. I knew it was being caused due to fatigue of the quads, so I started
walking up any hill. I would still run the downhills as the knee didn’t
complain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>About mile 11.5-12, my right
calf started to get tight. Once again, I knew more fatigue was taking its toll.
I started walking more and my pace really fell off. I knew that I would likely
meet my goal as long as I didn’t push too hard and cause an actual injury.
During this stretch, I was passed by another 3-4 runners. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Trail during Mile 7</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Trail during Mile 8.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">View from the trail
during Mile 9.</span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Trail during Mile 11.</span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="height: 421px; margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 10px; mso-ignore: vglayout; position: absolute; width: 562px; z-index: 251675626;"></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Trail during Mile 11.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span>
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wca5gjRaMYI/UY_1XT17RYI/AAAAAAAAAL8/VNTzkbon-ww/s1600/P5110062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wca5gjRaMYI/UY_1XT17RYI/AAAAAAAAAL8/VNTzkbon-ww/s640/P5110062.JPG" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> Trail during Mile 12.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IPfj4c0u1XQ/UY_1a-4mGYI/AAAAAAAAAME/NH-AnIsBOiU/s1600/P5110065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IPfj4c0u1XQ/UY_1a-4mGYI/AAAAAAAAAME/NH-AnIsBOiU/s640/P5110065.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">View from the trail
during Mile 13.</span>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Once I hit Mile 12 I
knew I was home free. I was also really looking forward to the beer I was going
to drink at the last aid station. Once there, I was greeted by friends and
promptly received my cup of beer. It was great seeing some friends and I spent
a couple of minutes chatting before heading to the finish. </span></div>
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<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Friends and fellow Trail
Nerds manning the aid station.</span>
<br />
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Even with all the issues
I experienced, I had a blast! It felt really good to be running on a trail
again. The sounds of the birds, the wind through the trees, footfalls on the
dampened earth and rocks, wind blowing across the surface of the lake, all
added to the enjoyment. I was truly living in the moment, soaking it all in,
likely with a smile on my face.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">With that being said,
the best things about trail races are the other runners and volunteers. Whenever
I was being passed during my walking stretches, the other runners would ask how
I was doing and provide some encouragement as they passed. I would do the same
as I passed other runners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is
something to be said for the camaraderie that can be felt during trail races.
It is one of the reasons that they can become addictive.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Post
Race:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">My legs are a bit sore,
but just the typical DOMS type soreness. I have anticipated the soreness and
actually welcome it. It means I am starting to make some real progress. It’s
time for me to hit the trails more regularly and hopefully become ready for my
first 50K in October. </span></div>
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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]-->Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-11748200601961501132012-10-29T19:53:00.000-05:002012-10-29T19:55:17.061-05:00Equalizer 24 Hour Event RR<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">What: </span></b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">Equalizer 24hr Run</span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">When:</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"> October 27, 2012</span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">Where:</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"> Des Moines, IA</span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">Goal:</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"> 40 miles</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">Backstory:</span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />A
long, long time ago (2011)… in a forum, far, far away (Beginner’s
Forum)… There was this idea to venture to this town in Iowa called Des
Moines. Once there, strangers from around the U.S. would meet up and run
on a 1.9 mile path around, and around, and around a lake. They would
run on this path for 6, 12, or 24 hours. For some reason, this sounded
like a good idea to these strangers.</span><b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />In a More Recent Time:</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />This
year has been stuffed full of one issue after another for me. I had
frequent ITB issues during the first quarter of the year. As of July, my
right shoulder has been painful enough to prevent me from doing a run
longer than 8 miles. It has also prevented me from truly racing. My
longest run of the year was a half marathon. I’m only averaging about 20
miles per week for the year. To say I was undertrained for the event is
a massive understatement. Still, I wanted to meet up with those fellow
strangers and run around, and around, and around that lake. It took a
little, miniscule amount of arm twisting, but I still registered for the
24 hour event. Since I will have turned 40 a month before the race, 40
miles became my goal. I registered for the 24 hour event because I
didn’t think I’d be able to reach 40 miles in 12 hours. To say I was a
little nervous would be a lie, I was REALLY nervous! My longest run ever
was only 20 miles and now I wanted to cover twice that distance within
24 hours, while dealing with a shoulder injury and no real training.
Kids, don’t try this at home!</span><b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />Race Weekend & FE:</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />I
took Friday off work so I could get some things done around the house
before heading to Des Moines. I ended up leaving around 12:30 and
getting to the hotel around 3:30. When I got there, the door to the room
was being held open with towels, but nobody was there. I was hesitant
to load my stuff into the room, but figured <i>what the heck</i> and
did it anyway. Finally, the cleaning lady came in and said something I
could not understand. I said “what,” she said it again and motioned like
she was vacuuming. I realized she was asking if I wanted the room
vacuumed. I said no, she looked surprised, said “OK, sorry,” and quickly
shut the door.</span><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />I
started getting ready for the next morning, posted to the FB group that
I was at the hotel, and had a beer. A little bit later, I realized I
had a message from Shari (StepbyStep). We ended up arranging to meet in
the lobby, check out the course, then head over to the pre-race dinner
at Bennigan’s.</span><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />Shari,
myself, Mandy (MadisonMandy), & Kristen (Runny_Babbit) made our way
to the park, walked to the bridge, then decided to turn back so we
could make it to the dinner. At Bennigan’s, we met Brad (Messenjah)
& Pam (learningdaily). A short time later, Dian (Guest2634) and her
sister Susie arrived. We also met the RD, Chris Zeppa, the eventual 24
hour winner, Jeff Woody, his wife, and his mother. I also talked with
other runners who were going to be doing a race in my neck of the woods
in a couple of weeks, the Pilgrim Pacer Marathon. Dinner was fun, but it
was time to head to back to the hotel.</span><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />When
we got back, we went our separate ways. I read the latest edition of
Trail Runner magazine, then got ready to call it a night. About 10
minutes later, I got a call from Shari asking if I wanted to head to
their room and meet up with everyone else, naturally, I agreed. Talking
with everyone was a lot of fun. We introduced a few of them to the
Gangnam Style video and Mandy may, or may not have, broken a chair. A
little while later, Susie, Dian’s sister, suggested that we would like
the kinky stuff. That got a big laugh from the group, eventually, she
realized what she said and proved to us that she was talking about
vodka. The great company was just the distraction I needed before the
race, but it was getting late and I headed out to get some sleep.</span><b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />Race Morning:</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />After
partaking in the continental breakfast, we each made our way to the
park, set up camp, and got ready to start. After a short prayer and a
very long rendition of the National Anthem, we were off. I had to keep
reminding myself that this was not a typical race and that I needed to
run SLOW! Shari and I ran together for about the first two hours. It was
great running with Shari! We were able to talk as if we were old
friends which made the time fly by quickly. We were averaging roughly a
10:30-10:45/ mile pace and avoided Mandy’s wrath by keeping each loop
above 20 minutes.</span> <br />
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<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=2fcb1d47-dc42-4080-86e7-6997f6ffd851&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/15/6/2fcb1d47-dc42-4080-86e7-6997f6ffd851.Medium.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">The rainbow bridge on our first loop.</span></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=2f95c3ce-7292-4df6-9e93-fe5d114d4b36&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/15/14/2f95c3ce-7292-4df6-9e93-fe5d114d4b36.Medium.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />The lake on the other side of the bridge.</span> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=98a8dd6e-6472-4073-a49c-b4ca055f61ad&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"><img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/8/4/98a8dd6e-6472-4073-a49c-b4ca055f61ad.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">The path from the same point.</span></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=2260637e-536b-4586-9df8-3532e81073ad&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/2/13/2260637e-536b-4586-9df8-3532e81073ad.Medium.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />Another picture of the path.</span><br />
<br />
I
let it be known that my plan was to run for 2 hours and walk for many,
then rinse and repeat. Wouldn’t you know it, right at the 2hr point my
itb started really complaining. Although my completely inadequate
training was the biggest culprit, I also think the approximate ½ mile
bridge had something to do with it as well. At this point, I was at
about 12 miles and still had a long way to go to reach my goal. I
walked/ran the rest of the lap, then rolled out the hamstring/itb with
the stick.<br />
<br />
I went back out and walked for a few more minutes,
then tried to run again. That didn’t work so well and I was forced to
walk. I was able to manage to mostly maintain a 14:30-14:45 walking pace
for a while. I was tiring, my itb was acting up, but I pressed on,
mostly due to the persuasion of Mandy and encouragement of everyone
else. Brad and Dian each took the time to walk with me and encourage me
to keep going. I cannot express how much I appreciated it and how much
it motivated me to keep going.<br />
<br />
Although I was moving slow, I was
still moving. I was now finishing the laps in around 27-30 minutes. I
had decided that I wanted to finish the marathon mark before stopping.
At 6:09:xx, I hit the 26.2 mile point and earned the race hoodie. When I
got back to the aid station, I stretched for a bit and decided I wanted
to finish a 50K before stopping. It took me a while, but I finished the
50K in under 7.5 hours. I was hurting even more at this point.<br />
<br />
If
I’m remembering correctly, it was at about this time when I used my
TENS unit to try and soothe the itb. It worked a little and I went back
out. I knew that if I stopped too long, I wouldn’t reach my goal. I had 9
miles to go and wasn’t going to stop until I reached my goal. I was
moving even slower now with some miles taking 20 minutes to finish. I
still pushed forward.<span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />When
I had three laps left, I saw that I might be able to hit the 40 mile
mark before 12 hours. I picked up the pace. To me, it felt like I was
flying. To the Garmin, it was only an 18 minute mile. I was determined
and managed to hit the 40 mile mark in 11:54:xx. When I finished the
lap, I was at 41.03 miles according to my garmin. Unfortunately, I
missed seeing the 12 hour runners finish. Brad and Pam both did awesome!
On my last lap, I grabbed my camera to take pictures of the rainbow
bridge since I didn’t think I would cross it again while it was lit.</span> <br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=9102db75-5b3a-421b-89d5-3eea5247e1fc&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/9/9102db75-5b3a-421b-89d5-3eea5247e1fc.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=85f2cf59-7459-458a-9b6c-0b8d5097e078&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/5/11/85f2cf59-7459-458a-9b6c-0b8d5097e078.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=700b2cd9-fa33-49b0-b9b1-5f6ff158e822&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"><img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/9/700b2cd9-fa33-49b0-b9b1-5f6ff158e822.Medium.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />I
stopped. I rested. I cheered. Then, I sat in my car because I was
getting cold! After a while, Kristen finished and asked if I could give
her a ride back to the hotel. I obliged, realized I left my wallet and
room key back at the park. After dropping Kristen off at the front
entrance, I decided to see if I could get another key card. I asked for
another key to my room and without even asking for ID or any other
information, I was given a new key card. I tried to rest, but couldn’t. I
finally managed to get about 2.5 hours of sleep.</span><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />At
about 6:00 I headed back to the park. Shari had started another loop.
After talking with Mandy, I decided to go with Shari on her next loop.
If I knew how fast she was walking, I might not have agreed to it. The
loop started off well, but by the time we reached the rainbow bridge my
itb was back to complaining. However, talking with Shari allowed me to
push through and keep pace. When we got to the end, Chris Zeppa (RD)
joked with me about how long that lap took. He jokingly commented that
he’d ask if I wanted to keep going with the ¼ mile to the cone and back,
but he didn’t think I had time to finish one trip. At the urging of
Mandy, I made the loops and ended up adding another mile to my total. I
finished with a little over 43 miles. Since I knew I wouldn’t be able to
get another mile in, I chose to stop and cheer Shari on to her attempt
to reach 90 miles. I was, and still am, very impressed with her
determination and proud that she reached 90 miles.</span><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />After
the awards, we cleaned up camp and went back to the hotel to get
cleaned up. Dian and Susie said their goodbyes and headed out on their
long drive home. Myself, Mandy, Shari, Kristen, and Pam went out to
lunch and had a good time reliving the weekend.</span><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />All
of the RWOL peeps were great people! I had a blast and enjoyed meeting
each and every one of them. I could not have reached my goal without the
help and encouragement of all of them. To them, I say a very heart felt
THANK YOU! I hope we can meet up again sometime.</span><b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br /><br />The Aftermath:</span></b> <span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif'; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /><br />Today
I’m walking up and down stairs fine, my quads are a bit sore, but
overall I’m doing OK. I have some pain in my left foot, but it doesn’t
seem to be too bad. I’ll take a few days off, then try doing a few easy,
slow miles. I’m supposed to have 2 races this upcoming weekend, only
time will tell if I am able to run them.<br /><br />I completed my first
marathon, first ultramarathon, personal distance PR, and more mileage at
one time than I have all week. Needless to say, I'm very happy with how
things turned out.</span>Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-52485523255602583682012-08-04T11:21:00.004-05:002012-08-04T11:23:16.014-05:00Psych Night Trail 10K RR<b>What:</b> Psych Night Trail 10K<br />
<b>Where:</b> Wyandotte County Lake<br />
<b>When:</b> August 3, 2012 @ 8:15 p.m.<br />
<b>Finish:</b><span class="mceItemHidden"> 59:41 (<span class="mceItemHiddenSpellWord">garmin</span> time)</span><br />
<br />
<b>Week leading up to the race:</b><br />
Last Sunday I did a 13.1 mile training run on the course for my marathon
in November. Toward the end of the run I had some discomfort just above
my right knee. I decided to play it safe and walk a while. It turned
out to be a good decision. On Monday and Tuesday, I had the discomfort
while going up the stairs. My my knee felt better on Wednesday, but I
decided to take another rest day. My first day of running this week was
Thursday, I only did about 3 miles on the trails. Since the knee felt
good, I decided to go ahead and see what I could do at the 10K on Friday
night.<br />
<br />
<b>Race night:</b><br />
I got to the race at about 7:00, picked up my packet, and mingled with
the other runners. The temp was above 90F and it was humid so I made
sure to drink plenty of water before the race started. I wore my
hydration belt for water during the race. Because of the temp/humidity,
and my previous knee issue, I decided to just walk around to loosen up
my legs. During this time, I took some pictures of people waiting for
the race to start.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=59a7523f-d6cc-46fe-bcf2-29a727802d51&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/9/12/59a7523f-d6cc-46fe-bcf2-29a727802d51.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=554290d0-36f7-482a-a09d-da39d41b7612&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/5/0/554290d0-36f7-482a-a09d-da39d41b7612.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=2a4c6641-774e-4dd7-8631-59d7b3d94fd6&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/6/2a4c6641-774e-4dd7-8631-59d7b3d94fd6.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Playing around with camera settings.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=09259d48-c39c-4678-b3f9-7c838659d180&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/9/3/09259d48-c39c-4678-b3f9-7c838659d180.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
More experimentation.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=0dff7026-3652-4127-b3a0-ce8ad61cfe19&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/3/0dff7026-3652-4127-b3a0-ce8ad61cfe19.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=b86e5864-2134-40b8-9068-c94d34a83fc6&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/8/0/b86e5864-2134-40b8-9068-c94d34a83fc6.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=5a723802-53e7-48a4-acb8-7807238e81a9&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/12/5a723802-53e7-48a4-acb8-7807238e81a9.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Now on to the race:</b><br />
<br />
My goal was to beat my time from last year, 1:10:07. I figured it would be tough, but achievable as long as my knee held up.<br />
<br />
With about 3 minutes to go, we all lined headed to the starting area and lined up. At 8:15, we were off.<br />
<br />
The race starts by running across a grass field, up a steep section of
road, then turning left onto the trail. By the time I turned on the
trail, I was already breathing hard. After running up the initial trail
incline, I was able to relax and catch my breath. <br />
<br />
Things were going well for a while, but I did have to walk a few of the inclines. <br />
<br />
<span class="mceItemHidden">We passed the 5K turn around, then ran a little over a mile further before coming to the section of the trail referred
to as the Wyandotte Triangle. This is a fun section that is about a
mile long. I normally try to run through this section fast, but was
behind some slower runners. I believe this turned out to be a good
thing. It starts downhill, but finishes uphill and exits onto the main
trail about 100' from where you entered the triangle. I walked some of
the inclines within the triangle to conserve some energy for the return
trip to the finish.</span><br />
<br />
After exiting the triangle, you turn left and go back the way you came. I
started to pick up pace along this section to take advantage of the
gradual downhill. <br />
<br />
I was still being cautious so I didn't roll an ankle. I had to keep my
headlamp turned to the lowest setting otherwise it blinded me. I ended
up having to carry the headlamp so I could turn it on the brightest
setting and clearly see all the rocks.<br />
<br />
<span class="mceItemHidden">With about 2 miles to go, I realized I was
going to easily meet my goal. I then set a new goal of sub-60 minutes. I
knew I couldn't walk many of the ascents on the way back if I wanted to
achieve the new goal. </span><br />
<br />
I set my sights on the runners in front of me and picked up the pace. I
passed a couple of runners and was on the heels of another. We came to a
fairly decent incline and I walked the last half of it. Since he kept
running, he pulled away from me. Shortly after, I arrived at the aid
station that marked the 5K turnaround. I grabbed some water and walked
until the trash can so I could throw the cup away. <br />
<br />
<span class="mceItemHidden">Just as I was getting ready to start running
again, the volunteer yelled to me "great job, now go catch that guy!" I
picked up the pace and started reeling him in closer. I passed 3 more
runners during this stretch and caught back up to the runner I was
trying to catch. He was about 20 yards ahead of me as we reached the
final downhill to the finish. He started his kick and I followed. I knew
there was a small ditch we needed to clear, but couldn't remember how
close to the finish line it was located. We both started sprinting and
gave it all we could. I slowed up a tad to safely clear the ditch and
finished about 10 feet behind him. I was catching him, but just ran out
of room. I stopped my watch after crossing the finish and realized I
came in under 60 minutes. I was drenched in sweat, completely exhausted,
and totally elated at taking ten minutes off my time from last year. I
might have left a little time on the course, but feel I ran it the best I
could given the conditions and my prior knee issues. After cheering in
other runners, I went a joined fellow Trail <span class="mceItemHiddenSpellWord">Nerds</span> and celebrated with a good beer. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="mceItemHidden">The race had photographs taken by the <span class="mceItemHiddenSpellWord">SeeKCRun</span>
group which provides free photos to the runners. I don't think all the
photos have been uploaded yet, but here is one of me taken during the
first half of the race.</span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=8110c026-b28f-48f6-94cb-838a27ffced5&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/4/8110c026-b28f-48f6-94cb-838a27ffced5.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I think this race just solidified what I already knew, my body wants me
to run trails! When I run on trails, I don't seem to have any of the
issues I get while running on pavement. This is fine with me since
running trails is my passion.<br />
<br />
This was yet another very well organized race with great volunteers! Bad
Ben Holmes always puts on great events and the fellow Trail Nerds are
exceptional volunteers! Thanks for another first class race!<br />
<br />
EricErichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-17645522820081589592012-06-30T20:10:00.002-05:002012-06-30T20:11:21.547-05:00Rock The Night Away Half marathon Race Report<b>What:</b> Rock The Night Away Half Marathon<br />
<b>When:</b> June 29, 2012<br />
<b>Where:</b> Lake Perry, Kansas (Branded B Ranch)<br />
<b>Start Time:</b> 8:30 PM<br />
<b>Starting Temp:</b> ~94F<br />
<b>Finish Time: </b>2:34:10<br />
<br />
<b>Pre-Race:</b><br />
Since I knew this was going to be a warm race, I decided that I was going to respect the heat and take it easy. This would be my toughest race of
the year so far, as well as my longest trail run of the year by almost 3
miles. This was also one of the funnest races I've done!<br />
<br />
I arrived at the race location, Branded B Ranch, at about 7:00 PM. I
spent the majority of the time in the shade drinking water to make sure I
was hydrated before the race started. For hydration during the race, I used the CamelBak Ultra LR 2L hydration
pack. I placed it in a cooler of ice to keep it colder longer. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=7e2487e5-427c-4c19-811d-07cdfb2b8755&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/14/1/7e2487e5-427c-4c19-811d-07cdfb2b8755.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Taken about 20 minutes before the race started.<br />
<br />
With about 15 minutes to go, I put the sunglasses in my car and grabbed
the CamelBak out of the cooler. It was then time to line up for the
race.<br />
<b><br />
Race Time:</b><br />
I need to give props to the race director - Bad Ben Holmes, the
volunteers, and fellow Trail Nerds for making this a great event! <br />
<br />
The race started promptly at 8:30. We ran for a short distance down a dirt/gravel road and then cut into the trails.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=8781a60d-cf89-4e54-aa7b-2bfaf673b9a8&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"><img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/7/10/8781a60d-cf89-4e54-aa7b-2bfaf673b9a8.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
This was a 2 loop course with 3 aid stations per loop, 1 manned and 2
unmanned. The energy at the manned aid station was awesome. They also had a
steady supply of water, sports drink, S-caps, energy chews, and tons of
motivation. <br />
<br />
I was able to run the first 3 miles without turning on my headlamp. I
took advantage of the light and powered through the rocky sections. Once
I had to turn on my headlamp, the pace slowed. I finished the first
half in about 1:07:xx.<br />
<br />
This race was so far a vast improvement over last year when I had to
drop at the 10K point due to ITB issues. This time, when I approached
the manned aid station, I knew I was going to turn to continue on the HM
course. <br />
<br />
At the turn, I lost most of my pacers and was running solo. This is when
my pace slowed, but surprisingly, I managed to pass 5 other runners
during the 2nd half and was only passed by one. <br />
<br />
I struggled from Mile 10 to the finish. Since I was running solo, I
walked more than I should have, but kept moving forward. I could feel my
hamstrings getting tight which, for me, normally leads to ITB issues.
That's one reason why I walked more than I needed to. I also walked more
because my endurance isn't where it should be. I'm making strides in
the right direction though. <br />
<br />
During the times when I walked, I snapped some photos.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=58d66740-7902-490b-a681-7736d1252386&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/8/6/58d66740-7902-490b-a681-7736d1252386.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=2958623f-e94b-4ec3-9096-a5731afebc5b&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/9/0/2958623f-e94b-4ec3-9096-a5731afebc5b.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=3c943a21-c3a8-4b58-9821-5d3e32e22aaa&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/12/8/3c943a21-c3a8-4b58-9821-5d3e32e22aaa.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=5cd80c5e-d473-4d66-beb1-4bfd7e3ebc73&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/12/14/5cd80c5e-d473-4d66-beb1-4bfd7e3ebc73.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
My main goal for this race was to finish safely and I'm happy to report
that it was achieved! I was so happy to be able to run through the
finish line. I feel like I received a little redemption from last year. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=cee97d81-8b87-47d2-b79e-0b8a7ecdd25b&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/14/7/cee97d81-8b87-47d2-b79e-0b8a7ecdd25b.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Photo taken by Dick Ross of SeeKCRun<br />
<br />
After the race, I ate some grub, took advantage of the free ART treatment, drank a beer and cheered in other finishers. <br />
<br />
Since I had The Color Run 5K in the morning, I had to make the hour long
trek back to KC. I must again thank Ben Holmes, the volunteers, and
fellow Trail Nerds for making this a great event!<br />
<br />
If you made it through, I hope you enjoyed the RR.<br />
<br />
EricErichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-85747568096294003742011-10-22T21:29:00.000-05:002011-10-22T21:29:40.456-05:00Lake Perry Rocks HM RR<b>What:</b> Lake Perry Rocks Trail HM<br />
<b>When:</b> October 22, 2011<br />
<b>Where: </b>Lake Perry, Meriden, Kansas<br />
<b>Temp:</b> 45F start 58F finish<br />
<b>Finish Time:</b> 2:19:04<br />
<br />
I wasn't sure if I was going to run this race or not. However, after running the Fall Fell 7 mile trail run on October 16, I decided to register for the Lake Perry Rocks HM. I was planning on doing a 10 mile trail run this weekend anyway, what difference would an extra 5K make. <br />
<br />
<b>Race Week:</b><br />
Since I knew this race would take more out of me than the KC HM did last weekend, I figured to cut back on my mileage a little. I ran a total of 15 miles during the week leading up to the race this morning. My legs were rested, but I had been having some periodic pain along the top of my left foot. It never lasted long and seemed more like nerve "pain." The foot pain seemed to fade on Thursday and Friday.<br />
<br />
<b>Race Morning:</b><br />
The race started at 8:00 and was about an hour and fifteen minutes drive away. I always like getting to races about an hour early which meant I would have to leave between 5:30-5:45. In order to do so, I woke up before 3:00 so I could get my coffee and let nature take its course.<br />
<br />
At about 5:00 I eat my usual pre-race breakfast, a bowl of honey-nut cheerios. Got dressed quickly and rushed out the door. I made good time and got to the race location at about 6:45. Since it was still around 38F, I decided to stay in My Jeep for a while. <br />
<br />
I finally decided to brave the cool weather so I could get use to it before the race started. I walked around, talked with some friends, and got my bib and goodies which consisted of a coffee mug with logo and a long-sleeve tech tee. I then snapped a quick picture of the sunrise.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=99b390fd-d479-4211-b0eb-18f9b9e67694&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/9/0/99b390fd-d479-4211-b0eb-18f9b9e67694.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
At 7:55 everyone goes over to line up. Since this was going to be my longest trail race (and run in about a year) I lined up near the back.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=b4e69562-d305-497d-9d62-1835a91b2ad4&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/4/13/b4e69562-d305-497d-9d62-1835a91b2ad4.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
We started on a dirt/gravel road and of course as we were lined up, we had to clear the road to make way for a truck that was barreling on down. After the truck passed, the race was on!<br />
<br />
We ran down the dirt/gravel road for maybe a 0.15 mile before cutting into the trails. The remainder of the race, except for the last 0.15 mile or so, would take place on some gorgeous trails. The trails were covered in leaves which did a great job of hiding the rocks. It kept the race interesting. <br />
<br />
During the first 2 miles I took it fairly easy to warm up. I fell in line with a group of people running the 50K. It kept me from going out too fast. After about 2.5 miles, I decided to pick up the pace and see what I could do.<br />
<br />
I ran progressively faster from Mile 3 to Mile 7. Mile 8 was a bit slower, but still managed a sub-10 mile. After Mile 8, the hills started getting a bit steeper and my legs were getting more tired. I would walk the uphills and run the rest. Mile 11 was my slowest mile (13:15), but I picked it back up for the last 2 miles with my last mile being a sub-10 pace. <br />
<br />
My goal going into the race was a sub-2:30 time so when I crossed the finish line with a 2:19 I was very pleased! What was even better, I made it the whole way with no injuries. The last time I tried a HM on these trails, I had to cut back to the 10K due to ITB issues. This race felt like redemption.<br />
<br />
Throughout the race I took a bunch of pictures. So if you made it this far, I might as well provide some pictures for your viewing pleasure. <br />
<br />
<b>Mile 1:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=c713ce19-534a-4c95-bb00-03d4f11d9cca&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/7/11/c713ce19-534a-4c95-bb00-03d4f11d9cca.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=e2447135-68b5-4515-83ae-d61fe384adba&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/2/3/e2447135-68b5-4515-83ae-d61fe384adba.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=6ccd5804-4a2b-463c-9045-be79a090d377&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/12/0/6ccd5804-4a2b-463c-9045-be79a090d377.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Mile 2:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=c78a065a-ea6c-43ff-8509-8b104c01036a&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/7/5/c78a065a-ea6c-43ff-8509-8b104c01036a.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=082eb0ac-58af-41ea-9040-574f101c30be&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/8/0/082eb0ac-58af-41ea-9040-574f101c30be.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Mile 3:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=1c4de769-7419-4cc6-95d6-72887d9e5859&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/12/5/1c4de769-7419-4cc6-95d6-72887d9e5859.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=ad5029ad-1939-47c8-8659-4e20bb5464a5&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/6/ad5029ad-1939-47c8-8659-4e20bb5464a5.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Mile 4:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=c896211a-430d-423d-ad1b-2000bf23adf3&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/8/13/c896211a-430d-423d-ad1b-2000bf23adf3.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Mile 5:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=1d952734-7bd7-452e-bffa-d4d82a5c4da2&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/15/1d952734-7bd7-452e-bffa-d4d82a5c4da2.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=9d6dbc5a-11cd-4d8c-8916-1913c993ebd4&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/9/9d6dbc5a-11cd-4d8c-8916-1913c993ebd4.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=f148b02b-9ab6-412b-a0f7-1e8a57655dee&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/0/f148b02b-9ab6-412b-a0f7-1e8a57655dee.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Mile 7:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=8d544064-0ce6-41c0-a469-c445d416debe&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/4/8d544064-0ce6-41c0-a469-c445d416debe.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=8a5ec442-e57a-43ab-add5-7fdfd7ba168d&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/13/8a5ec442-e57a-43ab-add5-7fdfd7ba168d.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Mile 8:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=5659fd3e-9f15-4c1a-b5d9-38ff11906283&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/5/5659fd3e-9f15-4c1a-b5d9-38ff11906283.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=93b9a6c3-7854-4284-bf41-68653a9d7ad1&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/15/93b9a6c3-7854-4284-bf41-68653a9d7ad1.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=3d9530ba-a5d8-4297-ad34-2fd2cace4ff1&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/13/3d9530ba-a5d8-4297-ad34-2fd2cace4ff1.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Mile 9:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=80ca0bc3-71b3-43e6-a2d7-a50b48d104a5&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/2/80ca0bc3-71b3-43e6-a2d7-a50b48d104a5.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=6c57da52-90b2-4db4-86bc-a75e783b3cd2&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/12/6/6c57da52-90b2-4db4-86bc-a75e783b3cd2.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Mile 10:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=b84b307c-758c-4fd0-9d3f-491f46ea0e02&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/8/13/b84b307c-758c-4fd0-9d3f-491f46ea0e02.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=abcecc58-883a-4149-b367-44a0b419b2fb&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/11/3/abcecc58-883a-4149-b367-44a0b419b2fb.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Mile 11:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=456ddea8-a581-45c2-856d-ce3a439c5824&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/5/5/456ddea8-a581-45c2-856d-ce3a439c5824.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=635fc656-8421-42d4-a84f-4dbbc663e0e3&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/8/635fc656-8421-42d4-a84f-4dbbc663e0e3.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=b184fc82-d23b-4b54-9036-a026d3c3138a&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/0/b184fc82-d23b-4b54-9036-a026d3c3138a.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Mile 12:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=fb4207d7-a838-4fa3-997a-c5b5239e02f1&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/11/9/fb4207d7-a838-4fa3-997a-c5b5239e02f1.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=9eddef48-5828-4ffb-9a3c-b3c50cc3bd92&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/14/10/9eddef48-5828-4ffb-9a3c-b3c50cc3bd92.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=1fd1c8fd-44bc-410d-8ebc-25dfa8f5b028&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/15/14/1fd1c8fd-44bc-410d-8ebc-25dfa8f5b028.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Mile 13:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/trail-running?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=9f552d9e-46d5-4480-8eff-d1b84191fe79&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2ftrail-running" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/15/14/9f552d9e-46d5-4480-8eff-d1b84191fe79.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I hope you enjoyed the pics.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
EricErichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-43672573798919108232011-09-25T13:09:00.000-05:002011-09-25T13:09:02.563-05:00Smithville Dam Run 10K RR<b>What:</b> Smithville Dam Run 10K<br />
<b>When</b>: September 25, 2011<br />
<b>Where:</b> Smithville Lake, Smithville, MO<br />
<b>Why:</b> Why not :)<br />
<b>How:</b> 1 foot in front of the other<br />
<b>Motto</b>: "Don't cry like a bitch when you feel the pain" taken from a Sick Puppies song.<br />
<b>Finish Time: </b>45:05<br />
<b>AG:</b> 1/??? at least 4 :)<br />
<b>OA: </b>5/??<br />
<br />
Now that the summary is done, on to race weekend.<br />
<br />
<b>The weekend prior to the race</b>:<br />
Last weekend I ran a crappy 4 mile race by not having a strategy and going out too fast the first couple of miles.I was hoping to finish sub 29:xx, but finished with a pace of 7:20. I vowed to race smarter during my races this weekend.<br />
<br />
<b>Race Weekend:</b><br />
I ran the KC 15K on Saturday and forced myself to take it easy. Granted, I still ran faster than wanted, but was able to talk in complete sentences the whole time. I ended up pacing a gal from mile 4 until the finish and was able to get her to reach her goal of 1:20ish. I finished the 15K in 1:20:01 for an avg. pace of 8:36/mile. My legs felt fresh after the race and I was feeling good!<br />
<br />
<b>Race Morning:</b><br />
My legs were feeling a bit tired this morning. I was worried that I had ran a bit too hard during the 15K on Saturday, but I decided I was still going to try and beat my time from last year and defend my AG win.<br />
<br />
My strategy for this race was to try to average a 7:30 pace during the first 3 miles and then pick it up from there. I also wanted to keep an AG rival in sight so I had a chance to overtake him in the later part of the race. <br />
<br />
With about 20 minutes to go I start the walk up the hill to the starting line.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=609430b9-b91d-459c-a22c-fe563cad40bb&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/2/609430b9-b91d-459c-a22c-fe563cad40bb.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Thankfully, the last part of the race finished running down the hill. :)<br />
<br />
I get to the top of the hill and wind seems to calm down a bit. It's a crisp, sunny 50F morning. Perfect conditions for a race.<br />
<br />
Since the only timing mat was at the finish, I decided to line up close to the front. I saw my AG rival and he became my first "rabbit". There was no big start, just some guy comes jogging up to the front, crouches down on the side, counts down and blasts an air horn.<br />
<br />
<b>Mile 1:</b><br />
I vowed not to go out too fast the first mile and decided that I wanted to keep it between 7:00 and 7:30. When my rabbit started to pick up the pace it was tough to let him go, but I wanted to run my race. The mile started downhill so it was tempting to go with him and by the end of the mile he was probably about 300 yards ahead of me. I stuck with my strategy and finished the first mile in 7:15.<br />
<br />
<b>Mile 2:</b><br />
This mile starts downhill, but finishes uphill with probably no net elevation change. I wanted to try and maintain my pace, but my tired legs had other plans. I did manage to keep the rabbit in sight and only slowed a little finishing this mile in 7:20.<br />
<br />
<b>Mile 3:<br />
</b>This mile is basically all uphill. At this point I see a few women and made it my next goal to pass them. My AG rival was extending his lead and my pace was slowing during this mile so I felt I needed to put an intermediate goal in place to help keep me in line. The ladies were about 100 yards ahead and keeping pace. I had to push myself a little to close the gap. One of the women separated from the pack and started pulling away. She quickly became my new rabbit. I finished the mile in 7:33.<br />
<br />
<b>Mile 4:</b><br />
This mile is also basically all uphill. I was closing the gap on my new rabbit and when we made a turn I heard the volunteer tell her she was the first female. I let her pull me along until the next aid station. My mouth was a bit dry so I decided to take water and walk so I get drink it all. Thankfully the short stretch after the aid station was a gentle incline and it was easy to restart running. I closed the gap and passed the rabbit during this section. My AG rival was a ways up, but still within sight so I re-focused my attention on him. Since this mile included the steepest hill and the aid station it's no wonder it was my slowest mile. I finished it in 8:00.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=86777126-393b-40c1-935f-66b8074d75f7&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/3/86777126-393b-40c1-935f-66b8074d75f7.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
The first female just before I passed by. This was also the only pic I took during the race. The little dot going up the hill is my AG rival.<br />
<br />
<b>Mile 5:</b><br />
This mile has some rolling hills, but is net downhill overall. I figured it was time to make my move and start gaining ground on the rival. I start thinking of my race motto taken from a Sick Puppies song, "don't cry like a bitch when you feel the pain," and started pushing my pace. It wasn't until I saw my avg. pace dropping that I thought I might just have a chance to set a new PR. I keep slowly gaining ground and decide to make my pass during the next mile. Mile 5 passed in 7:14.<br />
<br />
<b>Mile 6:</b><br />
By this point my breathing is getting rough, but my legs still feel good. Seeing my rival getting closer and my avg. pace drop keeps me motivated to keep running, even though my lungs are telling me to walk. I finally pass the rabbit about halfway through the mile and am worried I might be making the move too soon. To help keep me increasing my pace, I set my sights on passing the next two guys ahead. Honestly, I think that fear of being passed by my rival was the biggest motivator for my increased pace during this mile. I ended up passing one of the two guys during this mile and finished it in 6:34.<br />
<br />
<b>Last Stretch:</b><br />
This was completely downhill but I couldn't increase my pace much at all. I could hear the guy I just passed gaining a bit of ground so I focused on the finish line and tried to increase my pace. Although it didn't feel like I was getting faster, I was actually gaining ground on the next guy. I passed him and tried to catch the next guy who was about 50 feet ahead. I did make up some distance, but didn't have enough left to catch him. I crossed the line in 45:05 and am extremely happy! <br />
<br />
With my legs feeling tired at the start, I really did not expect to set a new PR this race. Not only that, but I finished with a faster avg. pace than I had during the 4 mile race last weekend. Could I have done better without running the 15K yesterday, of course! Would I do anything differently, NO! It was a great weekend of races and I had a blast! I couldn't have asked for anything more.<br />
<br />
If you managed to read to the end, I hope you enjoyed it. Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
EricErichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-53602623867673692192011-08-29T19:39:00.000-05:002011-08-29T19:39:24.200-05:00Head For The Cure RR<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">What:</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"> Head For The Cure 5K</span><strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />
When:</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"> August 28<sup>th</sup>, 2011</span><strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />
Where:</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"> Overland Park, KS</span><strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />
Finish Time</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">: 21:03 </span><strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />
AG:</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"> 7/9<strong>3</strong></span><strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />
OA:</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"> 49/1632<br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">Background:</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />
I have not had a good summer of running. I dealt with ITB issues from May throughout July. I’ve only started to feel like I’ve been getting my speed/endurance back since mid-August.<br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">Race Week:</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />
My runs this week have not instilled confidence that I would be able to hit my goal pace of sub-7:00/mile. My allergies had been bugging me and my breathing has seemed out of whack all week during my runs. Just like I did the previous 2 years, I ran the Mud & Muck Run 5K on Saturday morning. Since I knew I was going to attempt a PR during HFTC on Sunday, I ran the Mud & Muck Run easy and just had fun with it.<span> </span>Even while taking it easy, my breathing made it seem like I was putting in a higher effort than I really was. I never could get a groove and even decided to stop and walk during 2 short stretches. Needless to say, it did not boost my confidence for my PR attempt at HFTC.<br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">The Night Before</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">:<br />
Although it wasn’t conducive to a PR attempt, I was offered a ticket to the Heart/Def Leppard concert for only $25 and couldn’t pass it up.<span> </span>The concert was amazing and a lot of fun! I only managed to get about 4 hours of sleep.<br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">Race Morning:</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />
I was exhausted when I awakened after getting only 4 hours of sleep. I started the coffee, took a shower, and tried to wake up the best I could.<span> </span>I ate my usual race morning breakfast, a bowl of honeynut cheerios, got ready, and headed to the race. It wasn’t until I arrived at the race that I realized I left my camera back at my apartment. I placed it in a fuel belt I received at the Mud & Muck Run, but forgot to take it with me.<span> </span>Since I had about 40 minutes until race time, I decided to do a slow and easy mile warm-up, during which I couldn’t stop yawning.<span> </span>I remembered that I had a sample packet of jet black GU back at my Jeep so I downed it about 20 minutes before the race and hoped for the best.<br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">The Race:</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />
My plan was to go out at about a 6:59 pace and try to hang on. This race was going to be my test to see how far away from a sub-21:00 5K I am. I figured I would likely crash & burn, but I would leave everything I had out on the course. <span> </span>With about 10 minutes to go I head to line up. I feel that I’m lined up too close to the front, but after talking to people around, it’s clear that I need to move up more. I really wish the race had pace signs to help people line up correctly. <br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">I moved up about another 10 feet, still was around people looking to average a 9:00 mile, but the next row had some fast runners so I didn’t think I should move up any further. A young lady did a great job singing the National Anthem and the race started.<br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">I started the Garmin before crossing the mats so I knew my official time would be faster than my Garmin time.<span> </span>The first mile starts with a nice gradual downhill so after weaving my way through the slower runners, I let gravity help me out and tried to hit a pace of 6:59.<span> </span>After the first downhill my average pace was at 7:14 so I knew I had to pick it up during the gradual incline.<span> </span>I was pushing myself and started to see the pace dropping.<span> </span>I passed the first mile marker in 6:56 according to the clock, but my Garmin shows I finished Mile 1 in 7:02. <br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">Mile 2 was a rough mile. I started breathing heavy and knew the last half of the mile contained a noticeable incline. It was all I could do to prevent myself from slowing down too much. I decided I needed to find a “rabbit” to pull me along so I chose a guy who looked like he could have been in my AG. He seemed to be running strong so I vowed to keep him in sight. It seemed to work, but I still had to fight the urge to walk. Without stopping to walk I passed the Mile 2 marker at a time of 14:10.<span> </span>According to my Garmin, Mile 2 took me 7:07. <br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">Mile 3 started and I was in a mental battle. I remembered some words of encouragement that a good friend said to me while chatting before I headed out for the race.<span> </span>She simply said “KICK ASS!” At that moment I decided it was time to do what I could to pick up the pace. My “rabbit” was about 50 feet ahead of me, but I was slowly gaining. About ½ way through Mile 3 I finally passed him. He picked up the pace to stay with me. Since I was feeling rough, I figured he would outkick me if he stayed close. Since I could hear that he seemed to be working as hard as I was, I decided to push the pace during the next incline. He did not try to stay with me. I then saw another guy that could be in my AG and made him the new rabbit. He was a ways ahead of me so I kept my pace during the incline, but as soon as we turned and started on the gentle downhill, I started picking up my pace. With about 1/3 mile to go I started my kick. I am passing runners and gaining on my rabbit. I hear a lady tell him the finish is around the next corner. I think of those two words “KICK ASS” and somehow find another gear. It feels like I am flying. My rabbit hears me coming behind him and kicks. I would not be denied and flew by him with about 100 feet to go until the finish. This was the fastest I ever remember running and it felt GREAT.<span> </span>Oh I was a hurting unit, but it felt GREAT!<span> </span>I passed under the clock when it said 21:10 (I think). When I stopped my Garmin, it read 21:10 as well.<span> </span>It was a new PR by just over 1 minute! I could not believe it! <br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">Since I was out of it, I had to walk around a while before I stopped to have them remove my timing chip. Chip removed, I managed to find the final rabbit after the race and thanked him for pushing me. We congratulated each other on good races. <br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">I stayed for the awards and then went out for another 7 mile run (2 hours later). That was a very slow run. </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings;"><span>:)<br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">After uploading the Garmin data to my computer, it shows that the last .1 was run at an average pace of 4:04. There is nothing like finishing on a gentle downhill to make it look like you have some speed. No wonder it felt like I was flying. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">I’m betting that if I had proper sleep last night and was well rested, I would have easily finished in under 21:00. I am very surprised that I still had that kind of effort in me based on how the week has gone.<br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">Thanks to everyone who managed to read all of my ramblings. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">The Official Race Pics</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/head-cure-5k-rr-long?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=f99056dd-4c17-409f-bd26-33846049fa22&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fhead-cure-5k-rr-long" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/9/13/f99056dd-4c17-409f-bd26-33846049fa22.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Floating picture 1.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/head-cure-5k-rr-long?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=50732af6-51d9-4180-97f9-9e0d1530eb06&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fhead-cure-5k-rr-long" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/7/50732af6-51d9-4180-97f9-9e0d1530eb06.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Floating pic 2<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/head-cure-5k-rr-long?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=c069996a-8bd5-43f6-884a-240c1eec2d2f&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fhead-cure-5k-rr-long" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/8/c069996a-8bd5-43f6-884a-240c1eec2d2f.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
I must have been bored.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/head-cure-5k-rr-long?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=712b87b2-ae04-4bd6-b108-d7fdbab29b19&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fhead-cure-5k-rr-long" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/1/712b87b2-ae04-4bd6-b108-d7fdbab29b19.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
I must have been focused on the kick.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Arial Narrow','sans-serif';">Eric</span></div>Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-10693679950564168252011-06-18T15:13:00.000-05:002011-06-18T15:13:06.865-05:00Intro to Summer Trail Run RR<strong>What: </strong>Intro to Summer Trail Run<br />
<strong>Distance:</strong> 2.8 miles<br />
<strong>When:</strong> June 18, 2011<br />
<strong>Where:</strong> Wyandotte County Lake Park<br />
<strong>Finish Time:</strong> 23:44<br />
<br />
This morning I ran a great event put on by the KC Trail Nerds. Last year, this event was my first ever trail race. I finished it about 5 minutes faster this year than last year.<br />
<br />
Overall I am really pleased with my performance. As usual, I started way too far back and had to work to pass people. Since the majority is on singletrack trails, passing space is limited. At one point I decided to run through the woods to the left of the trail for about 100 yards so I could pass a line of people. The issue wasn't that the runners wouldn't let me pass, just that passing space was limited without forcing someone into a tree or the high weeds. <br />
<br />
I ran a negative split and don't think I was passed by anyone during the last half of the race. I believe I was 19th OA out of 64+. Either that or I was the 19th OA male out of 64+. Either way I'm still pleased with my performance.<br />
<br />
I think my camera has taken too much of a beating over the last few years due to being dropped so my pictures aren't that great, but I hope you still enjoy them. I didn't take too many pics and most were during the first mile.<br />
<br />
<strong>Pre-race Photos:</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=3b3d2b71-2a5b-445b-8310-331fe6f9ba21&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/11/3/3b3d2b71-2a5b-445b-8310-331fe6f9ba21.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Registration area.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=dde905b7-9aa8-4c49-a921-e449379e8045&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/9/dde905b7-9aa8-4c49-a921-e449379e8045.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Picture of the trees hiding the trail.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=e1f9dd7c-4bdd-43d0-a41d-312860d24c9b&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/4/e1f9dd7c-4bdd-43d0-a41d-312860d24c9b.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Lining up ready to race.<br />
<br />
<strong>Mile 1</strong>:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=444a21d0-832d-4e5e-b798-5a6f65e03829&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/4/7/444a21d0-832d-4e5e-b798-5a6f65e03829.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Heading into the trail.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=628fa287-462b-4f30-ae38-26f180845adf&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/2/14/628fa287-462b-4f30-ae38-26f180845adf.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
I'm moving so fast it's blurry. <img alt="" border="0" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/content/scripts/tinymce/plugins/emotions/images/smiley-laughing.gif" /><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=75c32dc2-533c-4b5b-8d33-8e0f408ca038&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/5/13/75c32dc2-533c-4b5b-8d33-8e0f408ca038.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
A look at the narrow conditions that were along most of the trail.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=6b11139d-9eb8-4d41-9fbe-01fea8f9426a&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/11/15/6b11139d-9eb8-4d41-9fbe-01fea8f9426a.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
I'm starting to look for a place to pass.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=00b1e402-687c-4851-a738-e679a154719e&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/7/00b1e402-687c-4851-a738-e679a154719e.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
I made the pas and was finally moving at a good pace.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=1572b2fc-8d25-4e63-a282-5115f63e179e&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/5/2/1572b2fc-8d25-4e63-a282-5115f63e179e.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Wider portion of trail where we have two-way traffic. <br />
<br />
<strong>Mile 2:</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=a9c6c97d-b457-4913-86f2-168309a26fc3&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/9/6/a9c6c97d-b457-4913-86f2-168309a26fc3.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
The wide section of trail where I made my move and surged ahead. It wasn't long before we headed back on the singletrack. Since I was running at a 7:45/mile pace, I decided not to take any photos when we hit the singletrack again. After all, I didn't want to face-plant by tripping over a rock, root, or slipping on the mud.<br />
<br />
All finishers received a "2.8" sticker. I figured WTH, why not put it on my Jeep and make everyone wonder what the 2.8 means.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=1f2ed88f-48f2-45f8-9532-f5f387a58a46&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/15/5/1f2ed88f-48f2-45f8-9532-f5f387a58a46.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
After the race I went back out on the trails with a buddy of mine and managed another 7.5 miles. Here are some pics from that excursion.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=e25272f2-4d7d-46ad-b1b9-535cdd33d71f&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/2/1/e25272f2-4d7d-46ad-b1b9-535cdd33d71f.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=98d370bc-2d89-4894-a2fb-4c419300d5a9&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/8/2/98d370bc-2d89-4894-a2fb-4c419300d5a9.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=67ba0f96-dc7e-4677-a4e7-4052d2efa82f&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/7/4/67ba0f96-dc7e-4677-a4e7-4052d2efa82f.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=0331392c-04f6-4e7e-bc43-3de5964a2178&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/12/0331392c-04f6-4e7e-bc43-3de5964a2178.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=2c198f2c-ab9f-47c3-bfe4-91d050533e70&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/12/15/2c198f2c-ab9f-47c3-bfe4-91d050533e70.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=8178992a-bed8-408a-be02-d8a1bb2a235c&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/14/8178992a-bed8-408a-be02-d8a1bb2a235c.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=e546ec9f-5a9d-4b09-a6d4-3b60f061f532&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/5/6/e546ec9f-5a9d-4b09-a6d4-3b60f061f532.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=2d5cbd17-c2e6-4ce8-af18-487f802de4b6&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/15/2d5cbd17-c2e6-4ce8-af18-487f802de4b6.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners/intro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=6ece137b-d89b-410f-8b89-8fdd42616ef5&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners%2fintro-summer-trail-run-28-miles-rr-pics" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/14/11/6ece137b-d89b-410f-8b89-8fdd42616ef5.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Running across the dam to hit the trails again.<br />
<br />
All in all it made for a great 10+ miles on the trails and a great way to spend a Saturday.<br />
<br />
I hope you enjoyed the pics.<br />
<br />
EricErichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-81040384872773228352011-06-04T13:51:00.001-05:002011-06-04T16:08:39.007-05:00Hospital Hill Run Half Marathon - RR<b>What:</b> Hospital Hill Run Half Marathon<br />
<b>When:</b> Saturday, June 4, 2011<br />
<b>Where:</b> Crown Center, Kansas City, MO<br />
<b>Temp:</b> 80F at the start / 86F at the finish<br />
<b>Finish Time</b>: 2:03:43 (New CR by almost 20 minutes)<br />
<br />
I wasn't quite sure how this race would go. I ran the Amy Thompson Run 8K on Memorial Day and my left knee acted up at around the 3.5 mile point. I've run a total of a little of 25 miles leading up to this race and the whole time my knee felt a little "off", but it wasn't sore. I rested the last 2 days and hoped for the best. On Friday evening my knee felt sore walking upstairs, so I focused on foam rolling last night. <br />
<br />
I decided to set 3 goals for the race. First goal - have fun and finish upright; Stretch goal - finish under 2:05:00; dream goal - finish under 2 hours.<br />
<br />
The morning went well, my legs felt good, and I was ready to run. I decided to say the heck with it and line up near the 2:00 pace group and go for my dream goal.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=dabd5f4a-cd3a-47e6-be93-4f1bce041e39&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/14/dabd5f4a-cd3a-47e6-be93-4f1bce041e39.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Facing the starting line<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=1b35a62e-da02-4ace-81d1-2067294efd26&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/11/1/1b35a62e-da02-4ace-81d1-2067294efd26.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Facing backward from the line<br />
<br />
This course was slightly changed from last year, but the change was adding a steeper hill in the first couple of miles. They also had all the distances start at the same time this year. To be honest, I didn't like the mass start.<br />
<br />
The first 2 miles were done at an average pace of roughly 9:38/mile. I started off slow to manage the hills and then started to pick up the pace on the downhills. At roughly the 3.5 mile point, I felt a twinge in the same knee that acted up on Monday. I started to think that this might be a very long race. I decide to take it easy on the uphills and push on the downhills, and see what my knee was going to do. By Mile 4, I had reached the 9:09/mile average. <br />
<br />
I really don't remember much about the individual miles other than the oppressive heat and humidity. I do remember that up until Mile 11, I maintained an average pace between 9:07 and 9:16. That all changed during Mile 11. The heat finally started to take it's toll on me and I felt on the verge of heat stress. My HR barely dropped during my walk breaks so I probably walked from the 10.5 - 11.5 mile point. It was all uphill during that point and I didn't want to push myself to the point of exhaustion, or at least I didn't want to take any chances.<br />
<br />
During that walk break I decided that I would still try for finishing under 2:05. I figured that if I could average a 9:50 mile for the last 1.6 miles, I had a decent shot. I picked up running again and went for it. I could see the 2:05 pacer way up in the distance and it gave me the motivation I needed to push a bit harder. I was running up a gentle incline, but knew I had a decent downhill awaiting me, but there was also one more steep hill remaining during Mile 13. I paid close attention to how I was feeling an resolved that if I felt there was potential for heat stress, I would walk the rest of the way; thankfully, that never happened. Outside of my downhill kick at the end, Mile 13 was my fastest mile. <br />
<br />
After finishing, I drank some water, partook in the free ART, ate some good BBQ, and had my 2 free beers. <img alt="" border="0" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/content/scripts/tinymce/plugins/emotions/images/smiley-eatdrink009.gif" /> While drinking the beer I chatted with a great gal and just relaxed. Of course, the clouds rolled in and it felt cooler after the race than it did before the race. Granted, it was still around 88F. All in all, it was a great race and I'm glad I decided to run it.<br />
<br />
If interested, you can view my scattered split times after the rest of the photos.<br />
<br />
Now for the rest of the pictures.<br />
<br />
<b>Mile 1:</b><br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=3341cc1f-754a-4917-9aed-a03bf251a425&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/10/3341cc1f-754a-4917-9aed-a03bf251a425.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Near the start of the mile.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=f6e3a95f-1384-41e6-935d-1e970d130feb&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/3/f6e3a95f-1384-41e6-935d-1e970d130feb.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Following the 2:00 pacer.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=0f2906c4-307a-4050-a15b-2ccb62992b67&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/15/1/0f2906c4-307a-4050-a15b-2ccb62992b67.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
A little over 1/2 way through Mile 1.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=e65a0798-40a8-4fb3-b9b5-29393e10b612&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/9/e65a0798-40a8-4fb3-b9b5-29393e10b612.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
You can see the Sprint Center up near the stoplight on the right.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=a045f715-bf2a-469a-8d65-1b89237c7f58&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/13/a045f715-bf2a-469a-8d65-1b89237c7f58.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Closer view of the sprint center.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=823fb903-4931-4d0b-a9cf-9bdd16296292&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/2/9/823fb903-4931-4d0b-a9cf-9bdd16296292.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Nearing the end of Mile 1.<br />
<br />
<b>Mile 2:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=3c1007b1-bf89-4631-8697-da57d736d7ae&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/12/6/3c1007b1-bf89-4631-8697-da57d736d7ae.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Near the start of Mile 2.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=8a35d1c1-3dd8-4203-b541-436650901bd4&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/5/8a35d1c1-3dd8-4203-b541-436650901bd4.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
About 3/4 through Mile 2.<br />
<br />
<b>Mile 3:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=6a1fdbb2-b3ac-4ee8-a6d1-de0303c19347&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/6/6a1fdbb2-b3ac-4ee8-a6d1-de0303c19347.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
About 1/4 through Mile 3.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=8200878c-ed7d-4cc4-b7cf-ca4144aa4427&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/2/7/8200878c-ed7d-4cc4-b7cf-ca4144aa4427.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
About 3/4 through Mile 3.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=55e38794-2c2f-4f75-b64e-8399e53b9cd2&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/5/6/55e38794-2c2f-4f75-b64e-8399e53b9cd2.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Near the end of Mile 3.<br />
<br />
<b>Mile 4:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=73a9d777-3049-432c-84df-a58e42e69c6a&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/4/73a9d777-3049-432c-84df-a58e42e69c6a.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Near the start of Mile 4.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=fd29fbf1-d84a-4eeb-8c72-1915fa37e02a&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/12/fd29fbf1-d84a-4eeb-8c72-1915fa37e02a.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
About 1/2 through Mile 4.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=1b011894-d010-420a-8e49-f5cbaeb5a7a5&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/11/14/1b011894-d010-420a-8e49-f5cbaeb5a7a5.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
A little further<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=7b847a8c-a5df-47af-9e25-b279ffb20bae&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/11/14/7b847a8c-a5df-47af-9e25-b279ffb20bae.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
A little further.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=3553ee29-2bc2-4928-bb42-9da93bdd5d45&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/5/11/3553ee29-2bc2-4928-bb42-9da93bdd5d45.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
The end of Mile 4.<br />
<br />
<b>Mile 6:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=43548432-b2ee-4f02-97ca-54d4d7e21118&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/7/43548432-b2ee-4f02-97ca-54d4d7e21118.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Near the end of Mile 6.<br />
<br />
<b>Mile 8:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=209cb661-2cbb-4146-a79f-c9d5153bfb52&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/7/209cb661-2cbb-4146-a79f-c9d5153bfb52.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
About 3/4 through. I had to post a blurry picture. :)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=a520bdb6-bad5-4e31-8932-a6cee816a181&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/5/9/a520bdb6-bad5-4e31-8932-a6cee816a181.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
A little further.<br />
<br />
<b>Mile 9:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=66b8adfe-f3e7-46b4-ac81-256f89d2a6d3&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/12/66b8adfe-f3e7-46b4-ac81-256f89d2a6d3.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
About 3/4 through Mile 9.<br />
<br />
I didn't take any photos after Mile 9, but I did get a picture of the shirt/medal after I made it home.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=9de8e5b1-94cb-43a2-874e-754d074f466d&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/7/9de8e5b1-94cb-43a2-874e-754d074f466d.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
My knee is a tad sore, but not bad at all. Now as promised, my splits:<br />
<br />
Mile 1: 9:30<br />
Mile 2: 9:45<br />
Mile 3: 8:54<br />
Mile 4: 8:28<br />
Mile 5: 8:55<br />
Mile 6: 9:50<br />
Mile 7: 9:07<br />
Mile 8: 9:23<br />
Mile 9: 8:27<br />
Mile 10: 9:15<br />
Mile 11: 11:58<br />
Mile 12: 11:17<br />
Mile 13: 7:47<br />
.1 at a 6:13.<br />
<br />
I hope you enjoyed the RR.<br />
<br />
EricErichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-57520417236493913572011-05-30T18:26:00.000-05:002011-05-30T18:26:57.754-05:00Amy Thompson Run 8K RR<div><strong>*WARNING* </strong>After the RR I will have pictures of a red-tailed hawk, some of which showing it eating a squirrel.<strong> <br />
*WARNING*</strong></div><br />
<strong>What:</strong> Amy Thompson Run 8K<br />
<strong>When:</strong> May 30, 2011<br />
<strong>Where:</strong> Loose Park, Kansas City, MO<br />
<strong>Finish Time: </strong>41:35 (unofficial)<br />
<br />
<strong>Pre-race:</strong>Since I had decided not to "race" the 8K, I figured I would do a long warm-up and ended up running a 4 mile warm-up run finishing about 25-30 minutes before the race. I realize that's a bit too early to finish a real warm-up, but since I didn't plan on racing, I was fine with it.<br />
<br />
After about 5-10 minutes of stretching I walked around and snapped some pictures (mostly of the red-tail hawk).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=619eb6a1-61d7-4dcb-88f2-4bffd56b6812&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/8/619eb6a1-61d7-4dcb-88f2-4bffd56b6812.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Picture of the finish area.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=2355a1fc-5ccd-446c-b3b5-3c59f6d739d3&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/3/2355a1fc-5ccd-446c-b3b5-3c59f6d739d3.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Picture of the finishing hill. It's not bad, but still noticeable.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=23893169-28a1-4374-8fab-41fa45165842&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/15/23893169-28a1-4374-8fab-41fa45165842.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Picture of the starting area.<br />
<br />
I decided to line up about 10 minutes prior to race time.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=40aff463-cbd1-4895-8a55-6f2cbfcffe13&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/10/40aff463-cbd1-4895-8a55-6f2cbfcffe13.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Facing the start (Yes I am a master of the obvious).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=721401fc-09d5-41bf-8278-832bffc05d37&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/2/2/721401fc-09d5-41bf-8278-832bffc05d37.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Facing behind me.<br />
<br />
A prayer was said, the National Anthem was sung, and we were off. Miles 1-3 were uneventful and I was averaging right around a 8:00 and feeling comfortable. To keep this a bit shorter, I will let the pics tell the story.<br />
<br />
<strong>Mile 1:</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=0a6f6758-8493-4bd5-8d52-269c2b9aabf2&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/13/0a6f6758-8493-4bd5-8d52-269c2b9aabf2.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Early in the mile.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=c060a19d-674a-4768-9f61-72edd5b1e71f&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/15/c060a19d-674a-4768-9f61-72edd5b1e71f.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Roughly 2/3 through Mile 1.<br />
<br />
<strong>Mile 2:</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=3e48c43f-c9db-4013-922d-4877239ba174&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/14/2/3e48c43f-c9db-4013-922d-4877239ba174.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Start of Mile 2.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=07349dda-0a4e-45c8-abf8-d675c9817652&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/7/11/07349dda-0a4e-45c8-abf8-d675c9817652.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
A few moments later.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=e2d8cb55-025f-4826-aa7a-abdf183566d0&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/2/10/e2d8cb55-025f-4826-aa7a-abdf183566d0.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
A little more than 3/4 through Mile 2.<br />
<br />
<strong>Mile 3:</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=291ce158-eb80-4546-a704-743c85afc361&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/9/7/291ce158-eb80-4546-a704-743c85afc361.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Start of Mile 3.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=98333826-e3d3-410f-a34e-6c744c04604a&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/8/3/98333826-e3d3-410f-a34e-6c744c04604a.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Near the end of Mile 3.<br />
<br />
<strong>Mile 4:</strong><br />
<br />
Mile 4 started off well, but about 1/2 way through the mile, my left knee started getting a dull ache so I walked for a bit. I would pick it up after about 30 seconds and run until the dull ache returned. The ache wasn't my ITB, but right around the front of the knee. Even with the walk breaks, I finished the mile in about 8:33.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=43253a85-5764-4abf-8613-af267162a429&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/6/43253a85-5764-4abf-8613-af267162a429.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Approaching the 5K clock.<br />
<br />
<strong>Mile 5:</strong><br />
<br />
I didn't take any more photos while running, as for some reason, I tend not to take photos during forced walk breaks. Mile 5 was more of the same as Mile 4. I walked probably 1/3 of Mile 5. I decided to play it safe and make sure my knee was fine. I walked some of the inclines and ran most of the downhills. My last walk break was at about the 4.5 mile point. I decided I wanted to finish strong and started to pick up my pace. I started my kick when I reached the bottom the hill, turned the corner, and started going up the last hill to the finish. About 0.2 miles from the finish a young whippersnapper, OK he was probably early 20s, started to sprint past me. This kicked in my competitive juices and I sprinted with him. It was neck and neck and the crowd was cheering us on. According to my Garmin, my kick going uphill was at 13 MPH. I really don't know who won, as it would have been a photo finish. I think I cleared all the mats first since he pulled up and didn't run through. We congratulated each other on a great finish and he said he was just trying to keep up with me. <br />
<br />
I walked around, partook in some of the post-race food, and then went back to cheer in the other runners. I ended up snapping a picture of the group of soldiers (Army) from Ft. Riley, KS that ran in formation.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=2c89314b-d4a7-4bb4-8d32-72a80d2a29e4&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/12/13/2c89314b-d4a7-4bb4-8d32-72a80d2a29e4.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I then snapped some pictures of the post-run festivities.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=5e7418d1-71b5-47a8-bab3-56ff9d9b7e69&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/14/10/5e7418d1-71b5-47a8-bab3-56ff9d9b7e69.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
The food area.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=f821fe32-bb12-404c-961a-c26e01892231&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/8/6/f821fe32-bb12-404c-961a-c26e01892231.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
KC Wolf (Chiefs Mascot since 1989)<br />
<br />
After the pictures, I stopped at the booth for free ART and had about a 15 minute session. <br />
<br />
That's it for the RR, thanks to everyone who read all the way through. Now for the pictures of the red-tailed hawk. Feel free to avert your eyes if your squeamish.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=836ddc05-ef32-4c01-86d3-7c38abc8be7c&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/6/836ddc05-ef32-4c01-86d3-7c38abc8be7c.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=9edb0c5f-cb84-4f10-9ce7-52b31f94c016&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/14/12/9edb0c5f-cb84-4f10-9ce7-52b31f94c016.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=4ffe0ece-cdcf-447d-ba24-1c1679ee3540&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/15/10/4ffe0ece-cdcf-447d-ba24-1c1679ee3540.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=47385272-e00d-4fed-849d-226ed619aa46&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/7/4/47385272-e00d-4fed-849d-226ed619aa46.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=832d0cf2-d83f-4b23-b0b5-face8946a93c&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/0/832d0cf2-d83f-4b23-b0b5-face8946a93c.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=5be70930-2bb0-4bcb-96de-6fa359d81523&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/11/6/5be70930-2bb0-4bcb-96de-6fa359d81523.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=579044c8-75de-4bef-bd97-9bc3c5cc8da3&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/7/13/579044c8-75de-4bef-bd97-9bc3c5cc8da3.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=963aa387-085c-44f4-996d-467dfd2ccf12&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/9/963aa387-085c-44f4-996d-467dfd2ccf12.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=7dc9549f-cae6-49f4-8750-e6c1825a81fd&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/7/7dc9549f-cae6-49f4-8750-e6c1825a81fd.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I hope everyone enjoyed the pictures. I just wish I had my good camera so the pictures of the RTH would have been better.<br />
<br />
Eric.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-84257530484149162982011-04-17T15:35:00.000-05:002011-04-17T15:35:02.169-05:00Sabates Eye Care Trolley Run - Race Report<strong>What:</strong> Sabates Eye Care Trolley Run<br />
<strong>Distance:</strong> 4 miles<br />
<strong>Where:</strong> Kansas City, MO<br />
<strong>When:</strong> April 17, 2011<br />
<strong>Goals:</strong> Main - Sub-30; Stretch - Sub-28<br />
<strong>Finish Time:</strong> 27:35<br />
<strong>AG:</strong> 60/524<br />
<strong>OA:</strong> 377/8418 <br />
<strong>SEXPL:</strong> 339/3511 <br />
<br />
<strong>Race Week:</strong><br />
<br />
To say that my week leading up to the race was hectic is a huge understatement. I travelled to TX for work and put in 70 hours walking the railroad wearing my steel-toe boots. Needless to say, it was an exhausting week. I didn't get in anywhere near the running miles I was hoping for, but I did at least find some time to run. <br />
<br />
I flew back to KC on Thursday and was supposed to arrive around 8:30; due to a plane swap in Dallas, I didn't make it back to KC until about midnight and didn't get home until 12:30ish. I managed to get about 4 hours of sleep before heading into the office on Friday. As you can imagine, I was exhausted. To top the week off, all day Friday and Saturday I had to deal with a migraine. I guess you could say that I didn't really have the best week leading up to the race.<br />
<br />
<strong>Pre-Race:</strong><br />
I wake up about 2.5 hours before I have to leave to catch a shuttle to the starting area. I am still feeling tired, but at least the migraine has diminished to a dull throbbing at the base of my skull. I'm starting to think I might be able to have a decent race.<br />
<br />
I check out the temp and see that it's about 45F so I decide to go with a pair of shorts and a sleeveless shirt. It turned out to be the perfect choice. <br />
<br />
I walked over to the shuttles at about 6:30 and made it to the starting area at around 7:00. At about 7:30 I head over to go line up in my corral. When you registered for the race, you were able to choose a wave based on your estimated finishing time. Since my 4 mile PR was sub-30 minutes, I was able to register for the red (first) wave. It felt weird being that close to the starting line in a race with a reported 11,000+ registrants. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=51af1246-852b-4e58-9122-3d27b626b5bd&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/1/51af1246-852b-4e58-9122-3d27b626b5bd.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Looking back from where I was lined up.<br />
<br />
<strong>The Race:</strong><br />
<br />
After the National Anthem was sung it was time for the wheel chair participant to start. At that time I turned on my Garmin to see the "low battery" message. I was hoping it would at least last the first mile.<br />
<br />
At about 7:45, the Red Wave started. I decided right then that I was going to go out and try for my stretch goal. I quickly realized that I started too far back when a 1/4 mile into it my pace was about 7:30. I start weaving in and out of people trying to find a clearing and eventually get the first mile done in 7:01. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=6ef157d3-8c51-4d57-a277-48203958e133&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/14/2/6ef157d3-8c51-4d57-a277-48203958e133.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Shortly after the race start<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=59cbb9b1-5f4b-48a2-b0d4-7e7725d871dc&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/9/0/59cbb9b1-5f4b-48a2-b0d4-7e7725d871dc.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
At about the 1/4 mile point<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=75c87f69-b81f-4449-92b6-adc0b6f1372b&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/5/2/75c87f69-b81f-4449-92b6-adc0b6f1372b.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Roughly at the 1/2 mile point.<br />
<br />
My Garmin is still going and since I was close to the needed pace, I decided to push a little more for Mile 2. Somehow I managed to get into a groove and finished mile 2 at a 6:44 pace.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=469b67a7-d4c6-427a-8630-f7b43118f118&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/6/469b67a7-d4c6-427a-8630-f7b43118f118.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
about a 1/4 mile into Mile 2<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=ca0aa94e-862b-4890-a909-83286c0792f5&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/9/ca0aa94e-862b-4890-a909-83286c0792f5.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
About 3/4 through Mile 2.<br />
<br />
I'm starting to feel the pace now and have my doubts that I can hold it until the finish. I decided to stay with the pace and see what happens. At about the 2.7 mile point, my Garmin dies. According to the data, I maintained a 6:44 pace up until this point. My mouth was getting very dry so I decided to grab some water at the upcoming aid station. I grabbed the water and walked about 5 steps to make sure I would be able to drink some of it. I get to the 3 mile marker and I'm starting to really struggle.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=77676f1e-b7b5-45c2-99c7-760f07600d2d&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/7/9/77676f1e-b7b5-45c2-99c7-760f07600d2d.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
End of Mile 3/ start of Mile 4<br />
<br />
Doubt starts to creep into my mind and I start thinking I can't hold the pace. The proverbial devil on the shoulder appears and convinces me to walk. After about 5 seconds I start to come to my senses, give that darn devil the finger and start running again. My breathing is really starting to struggle, I figure dealing with bad allergies all week didn't help matters any. <br />
<br />
Instead of giving in to walking again, I pick up the pace. I resort back to my previous race strategy and pick out a "rabbit" to keep pace. With about a 1/3 mile to go, my rabbit notices that I'm there and picks up the pace. The race to the finish was ON! He was about 10' ahead of me so I dug deep and gave it all I had. The finish line comes into view and I see the first number is still a 27, this gives me even more motivation to hold my kick pace. The rabbit starts to slow and with about 50' to go I pass him. I run through the finish line as the clock reads about 27:40 and am completely exhausted. I walk slowly until I reach the last volunteer cutting off the chips. Thankfully I didn't have to put my foot on a small bucket, otherwise I probably would have fallen over.<br />
<br />
<strong>Post Race:</strong><br />
After I caught my breath, I tried to find my rabbit to thank him, but he was already gone. I walked through the food area and grabbed a 1/2 banana, sm. chocolate milk, and some McDonalds Apple Dippers. <br />
<br />
I decided to wait around for the award ceremony to see how fast the winners were and to see if I won the car (I didn't).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=809b1f66-c69f-4e1d-aa45-7df5e47d1307&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/10/809b1f66-c69f-4e1d-aa45-7df5e47d1307.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Walking to the food area<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=ea4a2901-1c67-4e62-abef-a6e2cab2a716&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/11/ea4a2901-1c67-4e62-abef-a6e2cab2a716.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
About midway through the crowd.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=d3d4a2a5-a40c-4d78-a032-350773b24b82&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/0/d3d4a2a5-a40c-4d78-a032-350773b24b82.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Looking back at the sea of people.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=a9540d22-aad0-4b14-9fee-8f7f2a63fa9a&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/9/15/a9540d22-aad0-4b14-9fee-8f7f2a63fa9a.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
The top 3 women are on the right side. The lady in red was first female with a time of 20:16.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=0524070f-d560-4281-8b4e-f7806e7b678e&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img alt="" src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/5/11/0524070f-d560-4281-8b4e-f7806e7b678e.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
The top male finishers. All of the top 10 finished with a sub 5:00 pace. The guy in the blue jacket was the winner and finished with a 17:xx. I think they said he was just shy of a 4:30 pace.<br />
<br />
I thank all of you who read to the finish and hope you enjoyed the RR and pics.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-3469943344006368192011-04-02T16:29:00.000-05:002011-04-02T16:29:29.025-05:00Rock the Parkway Half Marathon Race Report<b>What:</b> Rock the Parkway HM<br />
<b>When:</b> April 2, 2011<br />
<b>Time: </b>7:30 a.m.<br />
<b>Temp:</b> 39F start / 50F finish<br />
<b>Finish Time</b>: 1:45:49 (Garmin)<br />
<b>Avg. Pace:</b> 8:01/mile<br />
<b>Avg. HR</b>: 171<br />
<b>Max HR:</b> 182<br />
<b>Splits:</b> keep reading <br />
<br />
Pre-race:<br />
<br />
My training this winter has been hampered due to tweaking my knee during icy trail runs and multiple ITB issues preventing me from putting in proper long runs. It wasn't until the last 2 weeks that I started seeing my pace increasing while my HR was staying the same. In short, my pre-winter endurance is starting to return.<br />
<br />
Race day:<br />
My morning routine goes off without a hitch and I end up getting to the race about an hour early. Since it was a bit cool at 6:30 in the morning, I sat in the Jeep for about 30 minutes and listened to my pre-race CD. I also started to think of a race plan. I wasn't sure how I was going to approach this race. I kept teetering between racing it or treating it as a training run. I decided that I would treat it as a race, but not try for a PR. I really didn't think I was in PR shape. <br />
<br />
At about 7:00, I headed to the restrooms at the HS stadium and then went to line up. I decided that I would line up between the 1:50 and 1:55 pace groups. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=e843ea86-053f-4775-b66f-2977db7e0c97&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/8/6/e843ea86-053f-4775-b66f-2977db7e0c97.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
At the start, facing forward.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=62a36637-cf30-4ffd-bba0-c449b6aaf5e4&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/2/11/62a36637-cf30-4ffd-bba0-c449b6aaf5e4.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
At the start, facing behind me.<br />
<br />
So looking at the pictures, I guess I lined up a lot closer to the 1:50 pace group. :)<br />
<br />
Since I knew the temp would warm up to 50F byt the time I'd finish, I wore a sleeveless shirt and my race ready shorts. I like running with my own water so I wore my Salomon Advanced Skin S-Lab 1.5L hydration pack. It has plenty of pockets for me to carry my camera and honey stingers energy chews. My hydration strategy was to drink a little every mile and take an S!CAP electrolyte capsule every 30 minutes. <br />
<br />
As you can see from the elevation profile, this is a PR friendly course.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=c1198b1e-6fea-4000-a680-8e3214baa56e&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/6/c1198b1e-6fea-4000-a680-8e3214baa56e.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I quickly changed my strategy and decided that I would keep the 1:50 pace group close until the 10K point and then do a systems check and increase the pace if all was good.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=1293f85c-02cd-451f-875e-907b13d97edb&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/2/7/1293f85c-02cd-451f-875e-907b13d97edb.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Splits from Garmin connect.<br />
<br />
I'm sure some of you are wondering "when is he going to get to the actual race details?" To be honest, I'm wondering that same thing. Well, now is as good of time as any. We are all lined up, the National Anthem was sung, and the countdown started..3....2....1..Runners are off!<br />
<br />
The first mile was nice and slow allowing me to get warmed up. I was thankful for the pace group at this time since I likely would have started out too fast. It was an uneventful mile and I was running at my typical long run pace. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=8cee71e7-6792-4b29-b061-594b03276767&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/12/0/8cee71e7-6792-4b29-b061-594b03276767.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
About 2 minutes after the start of the race.<br />
<br />
We picked up the pace for Mile 2 and I was starting to have doubts if I could keep up this pace for another 11-12 miles. I told the doubter inside me to STFU and tried to relax. It worked. At about the 1.9 mile point we came to the first aid station. When the pace group stopped to get water, I kept going. This is where I consider the race actually starting for me.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=10c66d14-0be9-494e-9f47-f13e5d1e3a86&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/15/10c66d14-0be9-494e-9f47-f13e5d1e3a86.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Near the start of Mile 2<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=668a2304-f096-4d3f-a357-312dd4236e22&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/3/668a2304-f096-4d3f-a357-312dd4236e22.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Near the end of Mile 2.<br />
<br />
Mile 3 had a few decent short downhill sections so my pace picked up a bit. I managed to keep the pace up the inclines. I decided at this point that I was going for the PR. This meant that I had to finish faster than 1:48:49. My new plan was to keep my current pace until Mile 7 and then start picking it up. As long as the 1:50 pace group stayed behind me, I felt I had a decent chance. If they ever passed me, I would pick up the pace and try to keep with them until Mile 7 and then re-evaluate the plan.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=54d9bde0-f8e8-4b15-acc2-db348f3ca245&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/4/12/54d9bde0-f8e8-4b15-acc2-db348f3ca245.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
About a 1/4 Mile into mile 3.<br />
<br />
I could tell my pace slowed a bit during Mile 4, but I decided to go with it. After all, I still had over 9 miles to go. IIRC, it was during this mile when I saw some decent signs. I think one said "13.1 is just a 5K with a 10 mile warm up." Another good one I saw said "<span style="font-size: small;">DON'T POOP</span> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">out</span>." <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=d8ee7ed7-d902-47a9-891f-deec422f3fc1&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/8/9/d8ee7ed7-d902-47a9-891f-deec422f3fc1.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Roughly a 1/3 through Mile 4.<br />
<br />
Since I really don't remember too much from the middle miles, I'm just going to let the pictures do the talking for me.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=ebccc443-0b1d-4cd8-87c1-0e1ea450e705&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/11/7/ebccc443-0b1d-4cd8-87c1-0e1ea450e705.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Near the beginning of Mile 5.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=9195a95e-75b9-4b7f-8dcf-515381676715&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/13/9195a95e-75b9-4b7f-8dcf-515381676715.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
1/2 way through Mile 5.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=3ca0060d-2e8b-47f2-8f86-08d35463218e&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/12/15/3ca0060d-2e8b-47f2-8f86-08d35463218e.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
About 1/3 through Mile 6. I was trying to capture the rolling hills in the distance.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=30d96714-b37b-40ed-bb58-d86add8b07c1&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/11/30d96714-b37b-40ed-bb58-d86add8b07c1.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
maybe 1/2 through Mile 6.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=74c8e52d-0274-405f-a0e6-1d8519c8be7a&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/4/0/74c8e52d-0274-405f-a0e6-1d8519c8be7a.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
About 3/4 through Mile 6<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=b3bf94b9-4bff-492c-b33d-b723c12f3595&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/3/b3bf94b9-4bff-492c-b33d-b723c12f3595.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
The end of Mile 6.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=6ee7fb82-54f0-436a-bc12-c5d6cf070f4c&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/14/12/6ee7fb82-54f0-436a-bc12-c5d6cf070f4c.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
1/3 through Mile 7<br />
<br />
I interrupt this post for a short narrative.<br />
<br />
When I hit the mile marker for Mile 7, I decided to stick with my plan and start picking up the pace. IIRC, my average pace so far was about 8:20/mile. I started to actually believe that a PR was possible as long as I at least maintained this new faster pace.<br />
<br />
Now resuming to your previously scheduled program.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=ab38394a-b444-43d4-8ff2-4904cf835124&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/11/15/ab38394a-b444-43d4-8ff2-4904cf835124.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
1/2 through Mile 8<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=6e5c10a4-8989-4567-a435-ccec0b247228&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/14/4/6e5c10a4-8989-4567-a435-ccec0b247228.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Roughly 1/2 through Mile 9<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=9cfda304-d643-43b9-a767-50529554027a&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/12/7/9cfda304-d643-43b9-a767-50529554027a.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Roughly 1/2 through Mile 10<br />
<br />
When I hit the mile marker for Mile 10, I had about an average pace of 8:15/mile. I started thinking that I might be able to reach a sub 1:45 finish time. It was time to start using the upcoming downhills to my advantage. I just had to pick up my pace.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/beginners?plckForumPage=ForumImage&plckPhotoId=863d8f78-eb05-46e0-a278-80d5e5c0b062&plckRedirectUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.runnersworld.com%2fcommunity%2fforums%2frunner-communities%2fbeginners" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/2/863d8f78-eb05-46e0-a278-80d5e5c0b062.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />
Roughly 2/3 through Mile 11.<br />
<br />
I became all business after the last picture. I started passing quite a few people those last 3 miles, but only 1 person passed me. By Mile 12, I didn't know if I could maintain the pace. I couldn't keep my breathing in check and I couldn't have said a word to anyone. My average pace was dropping steadily. At this point, I knew that it wasn't dropping fast enough for me to go sub-1:45. I didn't think I could maintain my current pace. I was exhausted. I tried to just will myself to pick up the pace. I evidently did, just have no idea how it happened. I was so thankful when I reached the marker for Mile 13. I could see the finish line up ahead. I tried to kick it in, but it was pathetic. I had no energy left. <br />
<br />
When I crossed the finish line, I felt that if I stopped I would either puke or pass out. So what happens, the people in front of me walk so slow it seems like a standstill. Once I got passed the roadblock I felt a bit better. It was a good thing that all the volunteers removing the timing chips were busy because I doubt I could have stood still long enough for them to clip the ties and remove the chip. <br />
<br />
I am ecstatic that I set an unexpected PR by 3 minutes. I thought I would struggle to finish near 1:50. This race went almost perfectly. Looking back, the only thing I would have changed would be starting with the 1:45 pace group instead of the 1:50. I know I am currently capable of getting a sub-1:45. Since my endurance is just now coming back, I'm going to have to pick a new HM goal to reach. <br />
<br />
If you managed to read the whole thing, thanks! I hope you enjoyed the pictures.<br />
<br />
EricErichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7218332112359207629.post-3829762208025691472011-01-22T18:02:00.001-06:002011-01-22T18:05:08.233-06:00My Rave Run<span style="font-weight: bold;">When:</span> January 21, 2011<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Where:</span> Little Blue Trace Trail<br /><br />Today I had the toughest run I think I ever had, but it was probably the most fun and peaceful. It was 15.5 miles on an easy trail, the catch, it was covered with about a foot of snow. Needless to say my pace really suffered, but I didn't care. The beauty of the scenery just took all my worries away. I did run with my mp3 player, but I had it turned so low that when the birds sang/chirped I wouldn't hear the music.<br /><br />The crunch of the snow underfoot, sun lightly covered by clouds, bald eagles and red-tailed hawks and flocks of Canada geese flying around just made the run even better. <br /><br />Once I reached mile 5, there were no more footprints in the snow. I couldn't tell where the trail was and learned a valuable lesson; when a trail is hidden by snow, it's not always best to follow rabbit tracks. :)<br /><br />My knee made it the whole way without complaining, but my hamstrings and quads started whispering by mile 10. By mile 13, they were definitely getting my attention.<br /><br />I ended up getting my second wind when one of my guilty pleasure songs came on, "<a title="Word Up Video" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZjAantupsA&ob=av2el">Word Up</a>" by Cameo. This <a title="KORN Version" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1q-k-uN73Gk">version</a> is better though.<br /><br />After that song my pace picked up again. The remaining 2.5 miles went by quickly and before I knew it I was back at my Jeep.<br /><br />Now as promised, the pics:<br /><br /><b>Mile 1</b>:<br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"><img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/12/13/0c4a42fa-bc47-4dd7-9d3a-1cb6fdb6a9e4.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />Start of the trail. It's obvious the sidewalk was cleaned once.<br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/6/9a0f319a-27c6-4a04-a647-e25f3e0c0e06.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/12/5a402917-926f-469e-ac47-9c33ad4bd60c.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />Scenery off to the right of the trail.<br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/8/d06a7596-5bd7-44a1-b86c-02c647d33a20.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />Heading into some tree cover.<br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/1/41f5f049-b81a-4ca8-8125-eb3dcfb3aa7f.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />Fallen trees across the river.<br /><br /><b>Mile 2:</b><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/6/c1bb4c87-f671-4db0-a622-102d35127953.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/4/14/d47e6bd0-66a6-4903-8e5d-60b802a72e5d.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/2/8af8898d-cec7-4c53-a2a4-f8984c903e27.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/15/8a0eb449-28d5-4818-bfc0-58441788e469.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />The picture doesn't capture, but I love the look of the tree in the foreground.<br /><br /><b>Mile 3</b>:<br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/3/16abf8dc-07bb-420b-9364-383e84c4f20a.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />Scenery to the left of the trail.<br /><br /><b>Mile 4:</b><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/11/9/3bf25af5-ce01-4e38-8930-617ee831eab9.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />The river to the right of the trail.<br /><br /><b>Mile 5:</b><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/4/1/04918303-bce0-4893-b1cf-25f4046e7991.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/7/664bc705-c0ec-45d2-b743-a65827f57ff5.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />Showing the depth of the snow.<br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/9/31e45ea1-bb6f-4936-a912-b2a924c2efb3.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><b>Mile 6:</b><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/3/4a80fc7c-841c-425f-830b-335ad71421ec.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/7/3/f70ca7b3-3749-4e95-a378-39fcf6b5cf80.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/9/12/2981bb6e-930a-4722-bcde-283a9dd1e46f.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />Bald eagles<br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/14/2/9e40e259-0406-4faa-a2e9-47fa84442f2b.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/15/1/bfdc6c98-210e-44cb-a18b-bd19c5f8cb7c.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><b>Mile 7:</b><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/8/15/18e9745e-5c23-4ab4-bf22-ef4e051ac55d.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/9/10/b9fe3113-1743-4629-aaf7-c2b46d8078a7.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/6/d064bd32-22a1-40e7-9681-c521abc7d5f2.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/9/14/792c6ed5-c31e-4789-8e35-27467effa20e.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/3/13/b3c96672-77aa-4820-9dce-899dfc49e314.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/14/1/3e558419-e0e7-499b-91fe-a5eafeaa592d.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><b>Mile 8:</b><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/7/10/67ab4ae4-5247-48b3-aa6f-ed5a69e704bc.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><b>Mile 9:</b><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/0/13/f0663bba-45a8-4713-ad38-a4c81935645a.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/8/9/383a0cff-0d7e-42a5-a912-90a1f9dc0a91.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/14/0/bede9185-43b5-4283-b028-3b2dfd90353c.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/7/11/87e350d4-c64b-48ee-8beb-333a64ba9f22.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><b>Mile 10:</b><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/15/7627f277-efed-41ca-bfd3-a15da359027a.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/9/8/d9d08a84-89c3-4c06-a8fe-fa11aaba4abc.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/10/31d762dd-cd5d-40f0-ba6c-07470571b2b8.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/10/d663c8be-b0dd-4ed6-9a7b-c3e8e739f9fd.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><b>Mile 11:</b><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/6/7/26579234-f71a-4f16-b75e-018c05fa4690.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><b>Mile 14:</b><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/1/11/61f896ea-4779-45bc-ab89-dc90f55395a1.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/4/cdeec09a-f741-42ea-84e3-4e16e69fa885.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/2/7/c22f2444-e26e-4a7b-a7c1-b67ce7b4c349.Medium.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Forums/#" title="Click to view a larger photo"> <img src="http://sitelife.runnersworld.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/15/6/bf351191-03f5-4c8d-a6ca-4eab5c6463bf.Medium.jpg" /></a><br />Shoes back at the Jeep.<br /><br />I hope nobody minded all the pictures.<br /><br />EricErichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17102677994456281207noreply@blogger.com2