PIM

It seemed like such a great idea at the time. Training partner Dave Gajewski had told me that he’d talked to Mike George, and that Mike would be doing the Prague International Marathon (PIM). Mike had mentioned his plans to me months earlier, but I’d forgotten. That’s when the wheels began to turn. I’d be in Europe, and traveling from west to east that very weekend. In fact, I’d probably be flying right over Prague, if I didn’t decide to stop there anyway. So decide I did, and after some extremely complicated travel planning, I found myself trying desperately to get myself into the correct mindset on the day before the event.

It’s not just mental; the other half is physical. What was I thinking? That running 100K, immediately sitting on airplanes for the next 12 hours, putting up with jet lag whilst in Portugal and then trying to run a marathon in Prague a week later would be no big deal? Did I think I’d no longer be feeling the effects? Did I think, 100K one weekend and a marathon the next one – what’s the big deal? Unfortunately, the answer, evidently , is yes.

The event itself ought to be a big deal for all the participants. Prague is the most beautiful city on the planet, and I’d heard generally good stuff about the marathon. There are many who strongly believe that a marathon is a great way to see a city. What a fantastic idea: combine running a marathon and travel. I myself am not so sure, but I do know a bit about Prague, having been there twice. I think its fine to just walk around on my own time to see things at their own speed. But I suppose I signed up because I was most interested in the experience. The experience of running in this wonderland, the experience of running an international race, and the experience of doing something different and interesting in between work weeks.

But my heart, not to mention my legs, didn’t seem to be into it. That previous week in Portugal wasn’t a banner week of running for me. Even though Lisbon is great for running, I wasn’t able to do much at all. I was tired and sore, but mostly just didn’t have the gumption. Call it post-ultra depression. It’s interesting that poor Mike wouldn’t be able to do the PIM due to an injury. Here I am complaining, and he would only be able to watch.

Maybe a miracle would happen. Maybe I’d feel fine, run well, and thoroughly enjoy the experience. On the other hand, miracles are called that because they rarely happen.

Before the start, Old Town Square was buzzing with activity. Announcers making announcements in a variety of languages, the crazy Brazilians marching around, flaunting their half-nakedness (make that three-quarters), being made to line up in a narrow corral 35 minutes before the start. No liquids of any kind, except some that were for sale (where the heck was I going to have money, up my… oh never mind). Did I mention the porta-johns? I counted ten. That’s 10 for maybe 10,000 runners counting all the events. One per 1,000 – you gotta like those odds if you’re a porta-potty.

Prague is at her most beautiful when it’s bright and sunny, especially early and late in the day. This would be one of those days – not a cloud to be seen. Unfortunately, along with the sun came warm temperatures. It felt about like it was in the low 70s at the start, and maybe about 80 by the time I was coming to the finish. Enough for me to call it a scorcher.

I had met Mike and his family at the expo the day before, and we did dinner together. Call it a mini-Dead Encounter. I mentioned that I’d start running at about 8 minute per mile pace and just try to hold it. Mike said that they’d be on the course, cheering me on as I passed by several times. And so they were. After a spectacular but narrow start at the square, we took a few turns before going over the famous historical Charles Bridge. This was even more spectacular than the start. Mike somehow picked me out of the crowd during those early miles, as well as a few other times. It was great to have my own cheering section so far away from home.

The course is pretty flat. It runs almost entirely along the Vltava River; the only hills are the bridges and underpasses. So we began running north on one side before coming back south on the other and returning through Old Town. From there we went south along the river some more, turned back to the north at the half-way point, and then crossed a bridge and did the same thing on the other side. By mile 20 we were back to old town one more time, and then repeating the north part of the course before coming in for the finish.

The person who invented cobblestones was not a runner. In my humble opinion, the (say about 3 total) miles of these babies – mostly around Old Town, but other parts as well – were more of a factor than the heat, or any of the hills. We runners quite literally went through great lengths to avoid them when such a thing was possible at all.

I did begin at 8 minute pace, but many of the miles were just a bit faster. I was informed that there’d been about 4,000 marathoners last year, but maybe they exceeded that for 2008. The crowds never let up. And even though I ran a steady pace, many were passing me for much of the way. Many of these may have been relay runners however. I’m not sure where the half marathoners were.

Somehow, I managed to keep that pace the whole way. The one thing I didn’t want to do is to die, in any sense of the word. I’d been thinking that 8 minute pace would bring me in at about 3:30, so this wound up being a goal. After half-way (about 1:44), I was still on pace, but it seemed to be getting more difficult. By about 30k, the heat really began to get to me. By 20 miles (about 2:38), I saw Mike and family for the last time, and it was downright hot. But I wasn’t going to die. And die I didn’t. Suddenly no one was passing me anymore. I did the final 10k in 49 or 50 minutes; about the same as the first 10k. I finished in 3:28, pretty durn pleased with myself. I guess it was a miracle.

I never saw Mike and family this last time into Old Town. Now at 12:30pm, Old Town Square was absolutely filled to the brim with people. So many that I could not for the life of me get to the metro station. I wandered around for 45 minutes until I stumbled upon a different one. Yes, you guessed it. I had to get to the hotel and shower before heading to the airport. This time it was Bucharest or bust.

Running in Portugal

Monday, 05-05
I really had to force myself, but I managed to get on the mill and do 3 miles. It wasn't easy on those extremely tired, sore legs and feet. But I actually felt better afterwards.

Tuesday, 05-06
I went over to the City University Park / Trail system. My legs were still tired and sore, but I sure needed to get moving. I've run here many times before - the longest route is 1.55 miles around the perimeter. There are other trails in the center. It's a nice run - I always enjoy it. The only thing is that one can get tired of doing so many multiple loops. I did 4, and then a bit more in the center for a total of 8 miles. Each loop was a bit faster, until I got down to 8 minute pace.

Wednesday, 05-07
Two goals today: get finished early because of an early (9am!) start at work, and also to do something of substance. Another problem is that for some reason it doesn't get light until later on in these parts and I didn't want to run around the park in the dark. So I hit the mill. I did 9 x 1200 at 4:45 for each. It wasn't a bad workout - I'm still sore, but I did fine.

Thursday, 05-08
Very slow going today. I'd hoped to feel good and do 12 or so, but I went so slow, I only had time for 10 (98 minutes!. The huge hills in Monsanto park were tough, but my legs were so tired that I couldn't get going in the flat areas after the hills were done. After running around Monsanto, I headed back to the University to do a couple more miles on those flat trails. Just didn't have it today. On the plus side, however, it was a beautiful run.

Friday, 05-09
Just 3 miles on the eliptical trainer. That's it for Portugal. Too bad I didn't have the ability to run more during this stay - it's such a great place to run.

But now it's on to Prague and then Bucharest.

Next: Prague

My work schedule was not changed, so I am going to run Prague. I've never done an international marathon before, except for Detroit, which ventures into Canada. And Prague itself is truly wonderful. So I ought to be extremely excited.



But after the emotional and physical smorgasbord that was known as the Green Jewel, my heart and head just aren't into it. This is not to mention my legs and feet.



It's early Tuesday morning here in Lisbon (another great place, by the way) and I'm going to try to head out for a run.



I'm taking this one baby step at a time.

3:45

When I first began running in the 1970’s, I’d meet up with friends to run in the Cleveland Metroparks. At about this time, I looked at a map and thought: wouldn’t it be cool to run the entire chain of parks that form the “Emerald Necklace” around Cleveland? It never occurred to me that the distance involved – 70 to 80 miles by my reckoning back then – would be a problem at all. I hadn’t yet run my first marathon at this point; distance was no big deal. The main reason I never attempted such a run is that I simply never got around to it. I figured the day for this would come, however.

Time passed. I moved away. I moved back. I ran marathons and dabbled in a couple ultras. As I found myself running in the metroparks again, I began thinking of running the Necklace again. But I still never got around to it. Perhaps the day would still come. Then I received the email about the “Green Jewel” 50k and 100k runs from Vince Rucci and Joe Jurczyk. That’s 31 and 62 miles for the metricly-challenged. This was what I’d been waiting for my entire running life that spans 33 or so years. Someone – guys who know how to put on races such as this – had finally gotten around to it.

So of course I was ecstatic. There was only one very small, itsy bitsy little problem: I’d have to fly to Lisbon, Portugal for work on that very same day. I picked the latest possible departure, 5:50pm, even though this would make for a more circuitous route – through Memphis and Amsterdam. 5:50 would give me ample time to finish, would it not?


• How late can Dan leave from North Chagrin Reservation and still make it to the airport in time for his international check-in? Figure 4pm, assuming a 45-minute trip, and the fact that international check-in in Cleveland really doesn’t require the two hours they say it does. Arriving at 4:45 ought to give me enough time.
• What time would Dan need to finish, in order to leave at 4pm? Say, 3:30 if Dan stops at a nearby friend’s house for a shower, or 3:45 if Dan was to attempt to clean up with baby-wipes, towels soap, and a couple gallons of water. Going home for a shower is so far out of the way that this idea was eliminated from the list of possible options. Add to the mix here that Dan would also need to bear in mind that the parking area was a half-mile away from the finish.
• Would Dan be capable of beginning the 5am race on time, and completing the 100k by 3:45pm? Now we’re getting to the meat of the matter. Here’s the math: Dan did two 50-mile runs in just about the same time: 8 hours, 25 minutes or so, roughly 10 minutes per mile. If Dan ran this same pace (not a sure bet), and then managed to run the final 12 miles at 10 minutes per mile, or two hours (also not a sure bet), that gives Dan a possible finishing time of about 10 and a half hours. And this would bring Dan in at 3:30pm. Cutting it a bit close, wouldn’t you say?
• Would any other alternatives be worth considering? Yes, but.. The most obvious and practical alternative was to run the 50k and call it a day. But Dan really wanted to do the whole enchilada. Another possibility was to begin 60 to 90 minutes early. Since it was a “fun run”, Vince said this would be ok. The only problem is that I’d have no support unless Debbie did it, or until I was slowing enough for the late aid stations to become situated. Thus the answer to this story problem is: Naaah.


The number of starters was somewhere in the teens. Among them was several very accomplished ultrarunners, some of whom I already knew. This didn’t matter too much to me; after all, I wouldn’t be contending for the win or anything of the sort. No, I only had to finish by 3:45. After a brief delay (causing me to think about running a second or two faster per mile), I kissed Debbie goodbye and away we went.

The run would be mostly on all purpose asphalt trail. There would be some roads and about 3 miles of towpath. The start was at the Rocky River Marina, and we were to proceed south through Rocky River and Mill Stream Run Reservations and then eventually east to Brecksville Reservation, Northeast through Bedford and South Chagrin Reservations before finally turning due north along Chagrin River Road to finish at North Chagrin Reservation. Debbie was to drop me off at the start, head home for a while and then meet me at the 49-mile aid station and support me from there until the finish. At that point she would, of course, drive me to the airport. This way, I would be able to stop and quit if 3:45pm was to occur before I arrived at the finish. I didn’t want to DNF, but I would if I had to in order to make my flight. Sound like a plan?

As of the start, the predicted rain seemed to be holding off. It did begin to drizzle after an hour or two. And then it almost never stopped. But early on it was light, and the temperatures were in the 60s, so it didn’t bother us much. I ran with the lead pack, generally Dave, Lloyd and Kevin. I was running much faster than necessary – about 8:30 to 8:45 per mile - but I felt fine and I didn’t think it would hurt me. Would it? Lloyd dropped back, and later on, Dave did as well. I ran several miles with Kevin, who’d done only one other ultra. He hadn’t even planned to go as far as 50k, but was only trying to do a long run in preparation for the Cleveland Marathon. I think he did manage to finish the 50k, but I’m not sure because he dropped back at about mile 26.

Now I was running alone, and a thought occurred to me: I could quit at 50k in Brecksville, and be the winner; the 50k champion! Although I’d won one other low-key ultra, another long-time goal of mine has been to actually win a race of any kind. No matter whether it’s some small fun-run; I just want to win! And I could do it by simply quitting as I came to the Brecksville aid station. The temptation was very strong. But so was the desire to do the whole Necklace. So whereas I was sure a couple of those ultra legends behind me would pass me up in the second half, relegating me to some kind of top-5 finish, I still wanted the whole enchilada.

So on I went. I had felt fine at that half-way point, and my time, something like 4:40, was downright good. This is just over 9 minutes per mile. I’d been running faster than this, but as always I’d lost a lot of time at the aid stations. I knew I’d slow down in the second half because the hills were much tougher there.

And so I did and so they were. Getting up into Bedford Reservation was tough, and my pace slowed considerably. I walked a couple of the very steep sections. But I was still moving forward, and I still saw no sign of Dave or Lloyd or anyone else except Vince and Joe. These guys worked their butts off, leapfrogging each other to set up the aid stations. Along the parkway past Bedford, Joe stopped to let me know that there would be none of the planned aid at mile 49 (Harper Rd), but that there would be aid at the last station at the Polo Grounds. I said this was fine because Debbie would be around to help me by that time.

The rain was making it tougher, and my miles slowed even more on the parkway. Now I was doing 9 and 10 minute miles, with a couple even slower. I still wasn’t worried – I told Debbie at 49 that I thought I’d make it, especially now that she was there to support me. 50 miles went by in 7 hours, 50 minutes. I picked up the pace going downhill through South Chagrin, but then slowed for some of the rolling hills along Chagrin River Road. I’d be on this beautiful but narrow and dangerous road for about 9 and a half of the final 11 miles. Debbie stopped every 2 or three miles to give me water and food. It was rolling terrain; I’d slow down or walk the uphill sections, but then run at a still decent pace for the downhills.

Just when I was starting to become really optimistic – about not only finishing, but possibly even winning – something really funny happened. Debbie disappeared! We’d agreed that she would meet me in the quaint village of Gates Mills for more aid, and I ran right through without seeing her at all. Oh well, I thought, maybe she’s just on up ahead. I went up an extremely long, tough hill; one that I hadn’t expected. I was walking in the now-driving rain when Vince drove by. We exchanged a couple words and agreed to see each other at the finish.

The big hill finally ended, and I crossed Mayfield Road, but one thing didn’t seem quite right. The sign there indicated that I was on Old Mill Road, whereas I thought I was to stay on Chagrin River Road. But I had certainly not made any turns, and surely Vince would have told me if I was off course. So I continued on across – I knew I was heading north, so things couldn’t be that bad, could they? Yes, they could. About a mile later I came to a “no outlet” sign. The only option was to turn left, but I knew that wasn’t correct either. I was at mile 59, and possibly nowhere near the finish! Worst of all, I didn’t have the slightest idea of what to do. Knock on someone’s door to ask directions? At that point God sent a cop down the road, so I flagged him down to ask directions. I knew I needed to get to North Chagrin Reservations just north of Wilson Mills Road. There was no easy way, but I could take the left back down to Mayfield Road, then take SOM Center road up to Wilson Mills and find the finish from there.

I knew that this was miles and miles out of my way. But, thought I, it’s the only sure way to get there. At least I was familiar with it. The skies opened up for the hardest rain yet. It came down sideways, and it now felt cold. But I was running fast. I was only doing 9-minute miles according to my GPS, but they were much faster than the previous 10 or so and they felt like some sort of land speed record. Would I make it in time? Where in the world did I go wrong? Would I even find Debbie?

At least the last answer was yes – she saw me as she was driving along SOM Center. We were both very surprised to see each other. I told her to park at the pool as instructed, and that I’d go and finish and then come back and we’d leave. I still didn’t know if I’d make it, but, eventually, I did. My GPS told me I’d done 64.5 miles in 10 hours, 25 minutes. I didn’t really expect a huge throng of people; this wasn’t quite like winning the Boston Marathon. But there was no one; not one person around. No one to acknowledge that I’d won. Very strange. I looked for a while, but eventually had to get going. It was 3:34 pm, and I still had to run the ½ mile back to the car. I started doing the baby-wipe thing at 4:40, doing some changing in the car as Debbie drove me to the airport. We called Vince to report my winning time; he was heading over to the finish.

Debbie and I figured out how I’d gotten off course: in Gates Mills Chagrin River Road turns right, goes across a bridge, and then continues north. In the rain I didn’t see the sign and just went straight. This was then Old Mill Road that took me up the hill. Debbie had parked and was walking over to the bridge to tell me about it, but I must’ve come by before she could get there from where she’d parked the other side.

I made it to the airport in time and I don’t think I smelled too bad. Baby wipes are wonderful. However, of all the suggested post ultramarathon recovery procedures, such as ice, rest and massage, spending 13 hours in airplanes and traveling through 4 airports immediately after the run is not one of those that is high on the list.

something of substance

After yesterday's long dreadmill run, I still wanted to get something of substance (read: speedwork) in for the week. But I also wanted to not do too much, and to get it done early in the week to give the ole legs time to recover for Saturday. I didn't feel too bad, so I ran to the track and did 4 x 1600 in an average of 6:28. Not bad at all. But it was tough. Glad to have this under my belt.

20 on the mill

I was watching the Boston Marathon tape and running at the same pace... almost. This wasn't a bad one, with the last 10 at marathon pace. 2:24 altogether.

simple steady solid speedwork

After Monday's really long run, I rested Tuesday, and then only did 2 easy 3-milers yesterday. So today it was back to hard running. I hit the track, and didn't do half bad. Mind you, these times are still slow, but the 'ole legs are still tired and sore, and at least things are going in the right direction. Yes, it was better than last week's speedwork by a bit.

It was the same 3 x (1600, 1200, 800) in the following times:

6:29, 4:52, 3:07, 6:31, 4:51, 3:06, 6:31, 4:48, 3:06

thirty

After 20 altogether on Saturday and 10 on the mill yesterday, I knew this would be tough. But I got out early and just did it. Not too awful - in fact, not bad at all. I was going to go to the rail trail, but ran loops from home instead. Here's how it wents:

11-Substation (93.5), 11-Sleepy Hollow and around school (98.5), 8-6East route with extra in Presidents (70.5)

Altogether I did the 30 in 4:23. That's 8:46 pace. Now I've got some confidence.

Morning Run and the Earth Day Trail Run

I did 14 on the towpath with Dave and Amy, hung out for a while and then drove down to Wilmot (sort of near Canton) and ran the 4.6 mile Earth Day Trail Run. The race was in the series, and I just decided to do it last-minute. Sally had to lend me $5 for my entry fee!

I was extremely slow on the rough trails, as expected. 8 minutes per mile. But I didn't care - it was fun. And nice weather. And I actually finished fairly well - 1st in my age group. Won a parsely plant beacuse of Earth Day).

In the evening we went to the N. Royalton CERT charity dinner - it was a fun to be with everyone - and won a night at the Airport Courtyard.

Fire on the Track

Two days after the 24-mile effort on the mill I hit the track. It's only the second time this year, but I'd also done a wee bit of speedwork on the mill. So I knew it would be slow, but I wanted to get through it in one piece and have a steady strong effort.

And I did! I did the old 3 x (1600, 1200, 800) in slow but steady times. 6:37, 4:55, 3:10, 6:36, 4:54, 3:08, 6:33, 4:50, 3:03. Good progression. Now all I gotta do is get faster.

Saw a ring-neck pheasant at the bottom of our street on the way home.

24 on the Mill

I've done it before, but it's been a while. And my long runs haven't been all that long or strong lately either. But I signed up for the Green Jewel 50/100k the day prior, so I thought I'd better start training.

Coming two days after my effort at the 1/2 marathon, this wasn't that pretty. I managed mostly around 7.5 minute pace and tried not to hold on too too much. I would have liked to add some MP miles, but that wasn't to be. I finished in 3:04. Not that bad, everything considered..

New Philadelphia Half Marathon

I didn't have extremely high hopes or expectations going in; I mainly wanted a solid, steady effort. I wasn't looking forward to running in the cold (42F) rain though.

The rain turned out to be as miserable as I thought it'd be. And I did manage a mostly steady pace, with slightly positive splits. And I did manage a sub-7 pace for the overall time.

That's all the good news. The bad is that I didn't break 1:30; I did 1:31:40. Even though I hated the rain, I don't know hoh much faster (if at all) I could have been on a nice day.

One more piece of good news: I was 3rd in my age group and 20th overall.

Running after our Return from Europe

Since my running was, as predicted, not so great in Europe, I'd hoped to pick it up well once I was back. Although busy with work, I figured I'd have myself a good, strong week.

I figured wrong. I did manage an early-week 20 miler (11 outside and 9 on the mill) and also 5 x 1200 at the newly opened track, but that was it for quality. It didn't help that my weight was back above 160 after the trip. As bad as ever.

I did a very small mini-taper towards the end because of the upcoming New Philadelphia 1/2 on Sunday, April 13.

Running in Central Europe

I knew up front that our trip would not be the best for running. We’d be up early every day, and on the days that we were to travel, which was *at least* every other day, we’d have to have our packed bags outside our hotel room door by something like 7am. Not wanting to have to pack stinky, sweaty clothes in my suitcase with my still-decent clothes, this presented a real problem. Even so, I figured I would be able to get a few miles in at many of the locations.

Frankfurt
This was one place where I didn’t think I’d have a chance to get out. We arrived late in the morning on March 23, and would have to be out of our room and ready to move on early the next morning. But I did find a way. After taking a long walk into town and catching a late lunch, we were pretty tired. Debbie decided to lay down for a short nap. Jet lagged and all, I went out for a late-afternoon jog. I was vaguely aware that there was a forest park nearby, and I actually found it and did a few miles of trail running. It was peaceful and quiet – quite a nice run. 5 miles in a slow 48 minutes. This would turn out to be one of the faster runs on the trip.

Berlin
I got it in my head that I had to run to, and through, the Brandenburg Gate. Our hotel was located far away in old East Berlin. It didn’t look too complicated, but I took my map anyway. Berlin is a huge, modern city. The mix of architecture between the handful of old buildings that survived the war, the newer, starkly plain East German buildings and the brand new – since the fall of the wall, ultra-modern buildings make this a most interesting place to see. And to run through. I didn’t hit the gate until 5.5 miles in, and by that time I had to head right back. But I did make my goal. 11 miles in an hour, 42 minutes. Getting slower…

Warsaw
Another goal-oriented run. Another recurring theme – find someplace on a map, slowly run there, and then hurry back, getting slightly lost along the way several times. This time I wanted to find Warsaw’s Old Town. Warsaw had seen perhaps the most destruction of any large city during the war. So almost all of the old town is not really that old. Most has been rebuilt to look the way it used to. After finding Old Town about 2 miles away, I ran along the Vistula river. This was quite nice and peaceful. Got fairly lost on the way back because it was a different route than I’d taken out. Had to stop and consult my map several times. I was also dealing with several inches of snow that had fallen the night before. As a result, I only got 10 miles in for my 1 hour, 41 minutes. So now I am Really slow.

Krakow
There was more exploration to be done here. I managed to find the Old Town Square, which is huge, and run through it. Then I found the river (the Vistula again) and ran along that for a while until I found a pretty good-sized park to run around. I think it was about 1.5 miles around, and I looped it two times. By the time I made it back I’d done 10 miles in one hour, 34 minutes.

Budapest
I’d run here before. Many times. My usual route had been from the Marriott, around the Buda side of the Danube to the Margaret Island Bridge. By the time I made it over the bridge and onto the island, I’d have gotten nearly 3 miles in. Then I would run around the perimeter of the island. There is a tartan track that is gentle and soft – a runner’s paradise. It’s 3+ miles around and is marked every ½ kilometer. I’d do 2 loops and then head back to make it 12 miles in all.

This run would be different. We weren’t staying anywhere near the Marriott or even close to the city center. So I’d need to run an extra 2 miles just to get to my old starting point. I did manage to do this, get to the island, do two loops, and get back. 16 miles. It would by my longest, and fastest run. Being familiar with most of the route sure helped the speed. As I’d done in the past, I got down to tempo (sub-7) pace whilst on the island. In fact, I did this for most of each loop. Altogether, I did the 16 in 1 hour, 28 minutes. Margaret Island was as wonderful a running venue as ever.

For the first time I decided to try to run on a day we’d be traveling. This meant getting back extremely early so I could try to get my running clothes dried in time to pack them away. I ran the opposite direction to nearby Neplinget park. I did a couple loops around – it wasn’t bad at all. I was tired though, so this was a slow one: 5 miles in 52 minutes.

Debbie wasn’t thrilled with me using the hair dryer to dry out my smelly running clothes.

Vienna
I was still tired, so this would be another slow one. And I would be moving on again this day, so I only got 4 miles in in about 40 minutes. I did find Stadt park – which translated means Statue Park. I found statues of Schubert, Strauss, and several other composers.

Prague
Today’s goal would be to find and run around a park that I’d run in last time I was here: Stroromovka. I would be extremely surprised if I spelled that correctly. So once again I went out with a goal and a map, and managed to actually get there without being too badly lost. I had to cross the Vltava river twice. As with the Brandenburg Gate, as soon as I reached the park, it was time to turn around and head back. Too bad there wasn’t much time to enjoy the park itself. But, as with many things, the joy is in the journey. Altogether I did 10 miles in 91 minutes. I don’t know the splits, but the return was much faster.

As I’d done in Budapest, I managed to get a second run in for Prague. This would be another early one. I found some hills and some quiet residential areas near the hotel. Some of the hills were fairly steep. So this one was 6 miles in 54 minutes.

Munich
After a night at the Hofbrauhaus, and an actual liter of beer, I still managed to get a run in. I found a small park near the hotel and just did several loops. It was about 1 ¼ miles around and I did the loop a few times. As with my other runs, it had been dark when I’d started, but was beginning to get lighter when I was finishing up. That made this run particularly interesting because I learned that I’d been passing a *huge* statue of a woman holding a wreath above her head, and I didn’t even know it! I didn’t see it at all until the last time or two that I went by. And I’d been within only a few feet of her! She seemed almost the size of the Statue of Liberty, although maybe that’s a stretch. I later learned that she is the symbol of Bavaria, and that this park is used for Octoberfest celebrations. I did 7 miles in 63 minutes.

So I got some miles in, but only about half of my usual total. And these were at a slow pace as well. At least I managed to run at least once in each city along the way. This hadn’t even been a goal, until maybe later on in the trip when I realized it was possible. All the runs were interesting and fun, but I suppose that if you pressed me, Budapest was best.

Strongsville 5K

There was a big snowstorm the night before, but it was mostly over for this race. Even so, we'd have to put up with gobs of slush, snow, ice and cold. And I'd need to get back home in a hurry - we were heading off to Europe.

I ran very poorly. 20:30+ or so. If it wasn't for a much slower mud run in Broadview Heights, this would be close to a PW.

I didn't stick around for the awards because a) I ran so poorly and b) I had to get home for our flight, but I later learned that I was 3rd in my age group. Oh and I also did well in the ohiochallengeseries points department.

More on running

For some reason I lost posts - they were not published. So I'll have to be brief. Monday, 3 slow tired miles.
Tuesday: 8 outside @ 8:45 pace followed by 14 inside including 13 @ MP. Not as good as it sounds.
Wednesday: 12 on the mill including 10 x 1200 @ 9.5mph/4:45. Much better.
Thursday: 11-mile new subs route in a solid 85.5 minutes. This includes 3 @ MP.

Weight was 161 at start of week, but is now down to 156!

Trip coming up - very busy. But it's fun.

Another Solid One

Today I ventured outside into the cold, windy, icy morning darkness. I didn't have much time so I had to run fast. And I did" the 11-mile new subs route in 85.5 minutes, including a 3-mile tempo. Other good news: my weight is back to 156.

This is all with the trip coming up. Lots to do to prepare. But it's fun. I hope I don't get too fat and out of shape.

running yesterday and today

Yesterday I did 8 outside and then 14 inside with 13 at MP. Not the greatest though. Some holding on, and the weight was 161!

Today I did 10 x 1200 at 4:45 on the mill. This WAS a very good one. And the weight was back down to 157!

another wild wacky weekend, and I even did some running

Went out with Iris and Mike Friday - Sokoloski's again. Yeah, it's kinda good and kinda fun, but on the whole, Debbie and I "don't get it". This time we had more traditional fare - sausage and sourkraut and stuffed cabbage, and this time I, at least, enjoyed it more. And of course we had some laughs with Mike and Iris. Stopped by their place after dinner for a bit.

Veronica and Barry came in for the weekend. Barry needed to research something for his master's thesis in Sandusky. We all drove to the Sandusky library Saturday, but he found nothing. Debbie and I may be able to find something at the western reserve historical society later this week. We got Pita Palace carry out and also visited Kathy and Mike.

We're about to head down to Medina to meet up with Jill and Dave and their kidlets for dinner at Fiesta Jalepenos. We are dining out and eating too much - but we're usually good during the weekdays.

Running wise, I ran Friday - see post, skipped yesterday, and then ran today. I did 11 at 8.5 pace, and then headed back in to see Veronica and Barry off. Around noon I got out again for 3 more at 7.5 pace. It is so hard to get out for those 2nd runs of the day.

This Week's Running

I did 12 lousy miles on the mill on Monday and took Tuesday off. But Wednesday was a good one. I did the 16-mile course in 2:11, then, because traffic was getting bad, stepped on the mill and did 6 more - 5 at MP. All in all a good day of running. I never slowed down.

Yesterday I did 6 around the hood, including some hills. Today it was 7 the same way, then 3 more on the mill at 10MPH - another good one.

today's long run

The storm is over, but I still stuck to the mill because it's still a mess out there. I did do better today - 20 miles with 15 at MP in groups of 5. Some holding but not as much.

sneaux

About a foot and a half, and still coming down. We used the snowblower once, and Mike came down and did it again with his big one. And now we need to do it again. Kinda fun. Kathy, Jessy and Mikey are coming to celebrate Jessy's 16th B-Day here in a bit.

Because of the ongoing snowstorm, I ran on the mill today. Needed 17 and did that, but it was quite lousy. Maybe I'll do better tomorrow. Correction. I'll do better tomorrow.

Fighting a Cold

It came on suddenly yesterday. I'm fighting it with Zicam.

Possibly as a result - terrible running on the mill today. I did manage 12, but way too much holding on.

Hills

Been trying to get more hills in.

Yesterday it was the 11-mile Rocks run in Connecticut - plenty of hills there.

Today it was 13 in the morning: my usual 11 plus 2 extra hilly miles on Sleepy Hollow. And then 3 more at lunch. It was nice for a change so it was good to take advantage. It won't last.

More on the Mill

I did some more speedwork on the mill during the week. This included the 2 3-mile tempos at 10mph one day and then 10 x 1200 at 9.5 mph the other time. Finally I did 20 on Friday before driving to CT. Those 20 included 13 at MP.

Weekend Visit with Veronica

We had to drive through a snowstorm, but managed to get ahead of it after an hour or so. The rest of the trip east was fine. Mexican food and then "last of the mohicans" that night.

Then came the big day in NYC. We drove in for a change. Makes more sense than the train when traffic isn't bad (as in a Saturday), and when there are more than two people. We bought all-day subway passes and made good use of them.

We hit the Museum of Modern Art. It was pretty neat - we saw lots of interesting stuff, including lots that had us scratching our heads. Good impressionism works too.

Barry needed a book at Columbia U. Library so we walked around the impressive campus a bit. Then it was down to Greenwich Village for lunch/supper at the Bamboo Cafe. Good place for vegan food that looks and tastes like meat. Very good.

Magnolia Bakery has world-famous cupcakes, and you could tell by the 1-hour line outside. I personnaly didn't think they were that special - pretty standard stuff. Veronica had made some lemon vegan cupcakes that were *MUCH* better.

Then it was over to Times Square to see the movie "Persepolis". I thought it was ok - just ok.

Finally it was the 1-hour drive back home. It had been a long long day.

Weekend and Early Week Running

Saturday I ran with Amy and Dave on the roads. Too much snow on the towpath. It was fairly usual - 18 miles at 9 minute pace. some hills. Not too bad.

I had hopes of running long, fast, or something on Sunday, but I was sooo tired, I could only do 2 miles. Poor showing.

It was going to be an easy week anyway. So yesterday I did manage 11 at 8 minute pace. Not bad, but it was tougher than it ought to have been. Today I stayed on the mill and did 2 3-mile tempos at 6 minute pace. Just like last week. Not perfect, with a bit of holding on, but very good running in general.

Val's Visit

Valerie came in Friday morning, and we had a fun weekend. Lots of shopping and eating. We also went to see Paul Runevitch in "Guys and Dolls" in N. Ridgeville. As the weekend progressed, the shopping and eating grew more intense. We ate most of the meals at Kathy and Mike's due to his allergies. We even made livance.

Next comes Veronica's place for next weekend.

And tonight it's Wicked. And I think the weather will be too - we're having a BIG snowstorm.

recent running

As I said, no time for anything but work and running. Yesterday I had a cancelation, so I had a bit of time in the morning and managed 11 miles out in the cold and blowing snow. There was only about a 1/2 inch, but the cold wind and couple slippery spots made a difference. Still it was a good solid run - the 6 mile east loop at 8 minute pace, then 5 more nearby at 7:30 pace.

Today was a different story. I babied myself yesterday with the hope that today would also be a good run. I needed the speed, and didn't have much time, so I stuck to the mill. I did my 10 x 1200 workout, but it didn't go nearly as well as last week. I was just out of it - dizzy and tired - not fully awake or engaged. They can't all be gems. The weight is looking very good - 157 yesterday and 155 today.

Some social life stuff and recent running

Dave and Jill invited us to go to Sokoloski's with them Friday. Good family friendly place for them. I ate too much, as expected.

Saturday's run was pretty good. It was with Dave and Dan Fox this time. Some on the towpath, some on the Bike and Hike, and some on the roads. The snow made the trails tough. And we also tackled Bedford Res. Hill. I forgot how tough that was! 18 altogether at a bit over 9 minute pace. The roads were faster than the trails of course.

Today I did 13 outside in the cold (low 30s) miserable rain, and then 7 on the mill. It wasn't the greatest day for running, but ok considering yesterday.

Debbie and I met up with Rita and several other NeoDeads at Ari's. We didn't show up to walk or run because I'd already run, and because the weather was bad. But it was great to see everyone.

More on (or moron) Work, Life, Running

Work is only a bit less crazy. Still not enough time to keep up with anything else. I really really need to get away.

We went to Madd Chefs the other day for Valentines Day, and it was very good. No time for much else.

For the last two weeks, probably half my miles have been on the mill. This is due partly to bad weather and partly to having no time to get dressed up for outside. I think my running is getting a bit better though. My weight is slightly down to 157 - not too bad. I'm working at it with ww. Saturday's run with Dave and Amy was a good one, as Dave and I finished very strong. Tuesday I ran long on the mill, and it was also a good one. So things are slowly coming around.

work, social life and running

I put in 16 hours over the weekend, and am still going during this workweek. Last week it was 3am counts; this week it's 5pm to midnight. I can't wait for it to end. Of course then I'll be concerned about not having enough work.

Had a lot of laughs with the Zielinskis and Rafalskis on Saturday night. Valerie is coming in in a week and a half.

Running's been ok - but it's been mostly on the mill. Sunday I did 5 on the mill and 3 outside. Yesterday I did 7 on the mill, including some hills. (need to start working those in.) Today I had some time so I did 2 on the mill and then headed outside, only to get caught in a thunderstorm. I only did 5 outside, but then did 10 more on the mill, including some speedwork. So it was a decent longish run, along with some quality.

Debbie and I have been WW'ing it. Doing fairly well - I've lost 2 - 161 down to 159. Need a lot more however. But I'm sticking to the plan.

Work and Running

I was worked to death last week - 3am starts, 6pm finishes. I'm now way behind, with not much time this weekend to catch up. And next week won't be much better at all. I'll have 5pm to midnight counts.

Of course all that took a toll on my body, with awful sleeping and less running than usual. I did manage to get 10 in on the mill on Wednesday, including 8 x 1200 @ 4:50 or so. Not so bad there. Thursday evening I met Dan Fox and Dead visitor Joel Barnum for a downtown run of 6 miles. going thru the flats was neat. Today I'm heading for the towpath for my long run.

The Weekend - lRunning and Otherwise

Otherwise first: Went to BW to witness another concert by Bob Mayerovich with the Elysium trio. Sunday went to the builders home improvement show with Kathy and Mike. Learned a lot about kitchen countertops. I'm also having big time problems with my new printer - so I bought another one!

Runningwise I did 3 on the mill and 15 on the towpath Saturday. For some reason I get really beat up towards the end of these runs - don't know why. Should have been easy on me with the snow on the towpath and the slow pace. Yesterday I did a really really lousy fast 20 on the mill. Way too much holding on and stopping. Not good at all. Today I ran slow (8:45 pace) but steady for 10 miles - better than expected.

In and Out

I ran out in the cold for 7 at a 9+ pace. That cold (13F with sub-zero wind chill) seemed to zap my strength, but I was tired anyway. So I followed up with 3 on the mill in 22 minutes. I was still tired, but it went well.

Sudden Snow

I weighed myself for the first time in quite a while: 161. Not so good. Debbie and I are back on the ww diet, so I've got high hopes.

Yesterday I did 10 very tired miles on the mill. Many stops for various reasons. I was hoping today would be better.

It wasn't - or if it was, it wasn't by much. I did the Substation 11 mile route, fighting the wind and cold. I was pretty steady at 8 1/2 pace. At mile 8 I ran into a sudden snowstorm. I guess you'd call it a squall. That made it challenging, but at least I was running with the wind at that point. The other thing that made it challenging was the %$# traffic. I gotta find other places to go.

long dreadmill run

I managed a pretty good long dreadmill run today: 20 in 2:25, with the last 5 at MP. This was especially good after yesterday's long trip. It's cold out - I may be on the mill for a while.

Running in Budapest

Back to Budapest. This is my third time here. I thoroughly enjoyed the other two. I don't see why I won't do so again. One difference: the weather is pretty durn cold and yuchy out there - temps around freezing most of the time, and a bit of ice and snow around. Pretty gloomy too.

01/10/08 - The ice was a factor in today's run. I did the run that I've done many times before: over to Margarite Island, around twice, and back. By travelling on the Buda side, and by going around the longest way, it's about 12 miles. I confirmed that with my GPS today. I started slow (extremely slow), especially over the icy and slushy spots, especially on the way there. The tartan turf on the island's path was mostly clear, but there were some bad spots on the west side. I got moving faster during the 2nd time around. Even so, this was a PW at 1:49 - just over 9 minutes per mile. I'd better get moving better.

01/11/08 - The ice was worse today. I did the same run again, but the ice on the route to the island was treacherous this time. Once I got there, however, things were a bit better than yesterday. I did the usual 2 loops - 29 and 27.5 minutes, and then headed home for a total of 1:44.5. Slightly better than yesterday, but still slow.

01/12/08 - I did the same route for the third day in a row, and this one was by far the best yet. It was warmer (mid-30s) but there was still that black ice on the way over. The path on the island was better though. It broke down this way: 24 to the island, then loops of 27, 26.5, 23 back. 1:40 altogether. I finally reached 8 mpm whilst on the island - I was checking my time by the km markings.

01/13/08 - When I’m in a new place, I usually explore a great deal by running, often returning to interesting areas later to explore more fully. I was clued into the good place to run in Budapest (Margaret Island) right from the start, and I’ve hardly run anywhere else. It’s great for running, and the other areas pale by comparison. But on low-traffic Sunday I decided to explore more, and I managed to see some areas that were new to me. The most important of these is Obudai Island. It’s north of Margaret Island, and tougher to get to. Much of it was deserted, and there was ice on the paths and even the roads. I turned back but then found a second bridge onto the island and found a small village at that part. I hadn’t heard of this island until the previous day, but I think it will be more important to Budapest in the future as it will be developed much more. 70% will be left as a park however. Most of this run was excrutiatingly slow. I came back through Margaret Island and picked it up a bit for those last 3. 13 in 2:06. Felt like about 19. Ouch.

01/14/08 - Back to Margaret Island. Back to normal. In fact, this was the best run yet: 96 minutes. I achieved eightness. It wasn't easy - this time the frost was slippery. And once again I started on the slow side. The interesting thing is that I can keep doing this without a day of rest. I'll need one one of these days, but I'll keep going whilst I can.

01/15/08 - As noted, with that soft surface on the island, I don't seem to have any trouble with recovery. I've been able to run every day, and hope to continue. I've also been able to continue to get faster each day; always a good thing. It's bound to get tougher though. Today was especially good. I got the the island fast, and found the sub-8 minute pace on the first lap especially easy, so I thought I'd attempt a tempo for the 2ns one. It's been a long time since I've done an outdoor tempo. There's even been some failures. But this was a gem: 3 miles in 20 flat. 21 to the island, loops of 26, 23.5, 22.5 back. 93 minutes altogether.

01/16/08 - How long can this go on? I somehow managed to get faster still. This was in spite of being tired and running slightly slower (20:17) for the tempo and the early miles. I said slower, but it wasn't that much slower. The last part was stronger than yesterday, and that made the difference. 92 minutes.

01/17/08 - Well I did it. I wondered if it was possible to improve further. And it wasn't easy. I got to the island in 21.5 minutes and immediately started at tempo pace. For the previous two runs, I had waited until the 2nd loop. It was tough and I had some doubts, but I did just manage to do the tempo - 3 in 20:33. I finished that loop in 24, and then began another tempo - this time a bit faster in 20:17. I completed that lap in 23.5 and the trip home in 21.5. The result was 90:40, a PR for the course - no small feat.

01/18/08 - This would be my last run for this trip - I only wanted to do 9, and so that's what I wound up with. This time I stayed in Pest until the far bridge, and started on the island there. I stopped to place my hands on what I think may be the "lucky tree" to make a wish. And then I headed home. 9 slow ones - in 82. My next run should be from home.

Home Runs

My plans had been to travel directly to Hungary from Florida. My plans changed. Now I'll have a couple days at home before heading out again.

On Monday, I managed to get another long run in - loops of 11, 6 and 3. The weather was unseasonably warm - mid 50s. Actually, it was warmer than several of my Florida runs. And I ran well. Very well - my best long run in quite a while. Strong and steady the whole way. My splits fot the above loops were: 92.5, 50.5 and 25 for an overall time of 2:48. Not bad.

I didn't sleep well on Monday night - the late OSU game didn't help. So I stuck to the mill for the first run. At least I made it a speed workout - 8 x 1200 @ 4:44 @ 0% elevation. I did really well for the first half of the run, but then had to hold on more and more. Later in the morning I went out for another run - 3 on the Presidents streets at 8 minute pace. Unbelievable weather - it's been in the 60s!

Now I'm about ready to go.

Running on Marco Island

1/1/08 – I was one of the first people out on the streets of Marco Island. I hadn’t even stayed up till midnight, so when I awoke at 5am, I felt fine. I did a whole lot of exploring on the island, eventually heading over the bridge at the western end. Altogether I did 21 miles on (and off) the island in 3:03. Although it was very warm (mid 70s) I was very strong and steady till the end. A very good start to the year.

1/2/08 – This time I decided to run on the beach. It was 30 degrees colder (mid 40s) and the wind was wicked. But it was clear, and the sunrise was beautiful. I ran to the south end of the beach, for 3+, then ran to the desolate north end, turning at about 8. Altogether I did 11 in 100 minutes, which isn’t bad for beach running whilst getting sand-blasted. And whilst carrying a heavy coconut for the last 2.

1/4/08 - Yesterday saw record low temps and cold winds, so I took it off. Today I did 11 in 96 minutes, mostly around the south end of the island. I had started slow - with an 11 minute mile on the beach. But I got going fairly nicely on those quiet, rich streets. It's finally beginning to warm up again. Not much yet, but it's getting there.

1/5/08 - It was only a bit warmer, and still windy.. I needed 16 to get 70 for the week, and I managed to do 17. The first 11 were on the roads, exploring the area to the north, including access to tigertail beach and some restaurants on bald eagle. Those were slow - I just couldn't get moving at all. Only about 9+ minute per mile pace. Then I hit the beach for the last 6, and surprise - they were faster! Don't know how that happened, but it is a good beach for running. Those averaged about 8.5 minutes.

Holiday visits

The kids have been in, and it's been fun. Thursday Debbie made a good vegan dinner for Veronica and Barry. Friday, after Dan and Valerie's delayed arrival, we all went to Sweet Mango for dinner and then opened presents. Yesterday we all went to the Akron Art Museum for a look at the Norman Rockwell exhibit. I think we all enjoyed it, even to the extent of exceeding expectations. Last night Kathy, Jessy and Mike brought soup and we had a soup party.

Today everyone's going home. I've now dropped them off at the airport, and we'll be taking off ourselves for Florida.

3295

That's for the year. Pretty good total, but I think it's my slowest year ever. And the racing wasn't great at all. All's well that ends well, and my last two were very good (Inland Trail Marathon in 3:14) and great (JFK50 in 8:27 or whatever). So I'll take it (the year) and hope for a better one in 2008.

My PF hasn't gotten worse, and it may be a bit better. I'm trying to not let it get any worse. I do plan to run a lot in Florida and in Hungary.

Today's 11 was solid, strong, and steady. 86.5 minutes on the new subs route. Not quite a tempo run for 2-4, but ok nonetheless.

Yesterday I did 11 with Dave on the muddy towpath.

My next run will be in Florida in 2008.

Recent Running

10 on the mill Sunday, and then 10 with Dave on the parkway (we met where the parkway crosses 82), and then 11 today at the same place. It's nice running there - we mostly use the bike path, and can head into some out-and-back places.

I'm still feeling the PF. Not bad, but I'm a bit concerned. Been sleeping with the boot, but I usually rip it off in the middle of the night.

Mom and Family

We were eating breakfast on the 23rd and Debbie noticed mom was having trouble eating. We realized that she couldn't use her right hand or arm. And her right eye was drooping. Debbie gave her a baby asperin and got her dressed and we drove her to Southwest General. She was doing much better by this time (the asperin really did the trick) but they had to do a cat scan, blood tests and an ekg. The diagnosis was a minor stroke. Quite a scare, but she seems fine now. Asperin every day now, and we've got to watch her in case of other strokes.

Party at Sandy and Nancy's last night. About like usual. Fun, big, loud, good food, crazy people. Mom had a great time, and Dave and Carol spent the night rather than drive home.

Today (Christmas), it's over to John and Jill's for more partying.

Today's Run and Other Stuff

I did 3 on the mill, and then 18 with Dave and Amy. We had to do the roads because the towpath and other trails were full of mud, ice, slush and snow. Even on the roads, we only managed a 9:45 pace. Don't know why these runs are so durn slow.

Debbie and I did the air for my Budapest trip. It was changed from Bucharest. That's good, but the bad part is leaving from Florida.

I Do Believe This Dreadmill Running is Helping

I managed to get outside today, and I also managed to run long today (no more calls, just lotso work). It went well: 20 miles in 2 hours, 55 minutes. I would've liked for it to be faster, but at least it was steady.

I do believe that all that dreadmill running I've been doing (6 and 4 at MP yesterday, 7 at MP Sunday) is helping.

recent running

lots of mill miles during the week. this is mostly because I started work at 5am and didn't have any other time. today I did 3 on the mill and then a short, slow 17 on the hills and trails with Dave in Brecksville res.

Dave, Jill, Amy and Brett are coming over this evening. We're in the middle of a snowstorm however.

pizza and today's run

I made pizza for last night's get together with Iris, Mike, Linda and Bob. It turned out good, but of course I had too much. And of course we all had tons of laughs as well.

So today of course it took way too long for me to actually get going into my run. I managed 2 on the mill and then 9 outside, up towards north park, around ganyard and back. Not bad running - most miles were about 9 min, but the last few were much better - but too little of it before it started to get late.

today's run and other stuff

other stuff first:

got a new printer and office chairs. also took mom out to sweet mango last night - really good food.

bin really really busy with work. hard to keep my head above water.

I'll call it 19 on the towpath with Dave and Amy today. We started from 2nd sole in the valley in order to hit their sale afterwards. The towpath was covered with about 3 inches of snow, so it was slow going. Gotta decide on this 50-miler next weekend.

it's been cold, and i've been a wimp

so i've been running on the mill. 12 with 1-mile intervals today, 10 on Sunday. one of these day's i'll get tough again.

Saturday Dave, Amy and I hit the trails. I'm calling it 17 with them, combined with 3 on the mill, so a decent enough day.

the ole weight ain't so great. 158 last week (not bad) followed by 161 and then 162 (bad) today. but there's hope. maybe after a couple good days, it'll be better again.

Went to see "Aunt Ida" Sunday with Mom. Met up with Iris and Mike and their Moms. Everyone enjoyed the nostalgic Dick Feagler play.

Saturday we went to the Ohio Challenge Series awards banquet, complete with wine from the winery and subway sandwiches. I was third, after they took 1st out for grand master award. I got a $10 subway card, a $10 Raisin Rack card, and $5 for Shearers snacks. We spent all but the Subway card.

This week

I've been running, but not particularly well. I did the 20 on Tuesday, 13 on the mill yesterday (wasn't the greatest, but I did manage 2 x 3-mile tempos) and then 4 really bad mill miles today. Been busy with work. Maybe next week will be better.

Today's Running

I managed a half-way decent long run today. First I did 8 outside at just under 9-minute pace. It was getting too late to be out, so I did the rest on the mill. There I picked it up more and more until I did the last 4 at MP. All in all, not bad.

Recent Running

2 days in a row I managed 7 slow miles. Yesterday was going to be the good solid run. It did start out that way - I took off for my 15/16 mile route and after a 9 minute mile, I got the pace down to 8:30 or so. But after about 8 miles my pace began to slow as I started to labor more. Don't know what went wrong - I just got tired. I cut it short by heading back on 303 to make it 13. Disappointing.

I've also managed to feel a twinge of PF in my left foot over the last couple days. Scary.

Weekend

It was wonderful to have the girls (and Barry) home. We had lots and lots of fun. Nothing new or spectacular. Some shopping, some games, lots of eating. But it was great.

Yesterday was the Krizak brunch. Lots of fun there too. Good to see everyone.

Aftermath

Of course I was sore and tired for a couple days. The ride home was tough. I slept *really* good that Sunday night. And of course I took Sunday and Monday off of running. But then a funny thing happened. I was able to run again on Tuesday. Half-way decent, too. I did a 3 and a 2 mile loop in the morning, and then another 3 at lunch. About eight and a half pace, starting slower and ending faster. Today was even better: 10 in 80, including - get this - and actual 4-mile tempo run at the track. I wasn't able to run this well for the entire 2 weeks after Inland Trail. Things are going well.

My weight isn't. Not that I'm overly worried about it - it's just funny. Monday morning I felt dehydrated, so I thought my weight would be really low. It was 165!! 8 pounds higher than a couple days before JFK! Where did that come from? All I can figure is that it's the salt tabs. "Down" to 161 yesterday. I'm hoping to not be too bad off coming out of the holidays.

We've had mom here for a while now. It's like having a child around the house. Not bad, just something to always be aware of. She really likes the senior center, so we'll start taking her twice a week.

Valerie, Veronica and Barry are coming in today. Can't wait.

JFK 50 Mile Run

The Joy is in the Journey.

It's been said in many ways about many different pursuits. And of course it applies to running... in spades. And it also applies to travel associated with running.

Brandon, Mike, Steve and I left for Hagerstown and had a pretty nice, smooth trip. Except for the snowstorm through a good part of PA. It was pretty bad when we stopped at the Flight 93 Memorial (not much there - an open field with a flag at the exact spot, some personal mementos posted on a board, and a tiny building with one volunteer to tell us all about it). And then it got worse at the higher elevations. This didn't seem to bode well for the next day's running of the JFK 50-Mile.

When we arrived at Hagerstown, things were much better - no snow and not quite so bitter cold. We checked in and drove to a couple parts of the course.

Now it was getting exciting. And of course I was getting nervous. Scared to death is probably a better way to put it. It's been 5 years since I'd run this far. And I had hardly trained for it. Trained for marathons, yes, but trained for ultras, no. Not at all.

JFK is as much a mecca for ultra runners as Boston is for marathoners. There were about 1,500 starters, and we all crammed into little Boonsboro High School before the start. Northeast Ohio was very well represented, and we bumped into several of the other Buckeyes. Even the long walk down from the high school to the start in the small town evoked thoughts of Boston.

The Joy is in the Journey. As soon as we started, the similarities to Boston ended. The first two plus miles are up, up, up. So much so that many of the smarter runners took to walking the steeper parts. Since the narrow Appalachian Trail was at the end of this road section, it was important for us to sort ourselves out before we started on it.

I had a good position going onto the AT, but this turned out to be a bad thing. I'm not a good trail runner, and that's being generous. The good, and even average, trail runners passed me by the hundreds, and this was tough for both them and me on this narrow, rocky trail. Did I mention that it's rocky? There are more rocks on this small section of trail than in the entire states of Ohio and Indiana combined. You can check my facts at www.howmanyfrigginrocksareonthattrail.com.

The AT was also steep. Extremely so - especially early on. The first three miles continued the climb that began on the roads. We hit a summit at that point, and the rest was a bit better. But I was doing a lot of walking. Not only on the steep sections, but also where the rocks, which were often covered by a deep layer of fallen leaves, were treacherous. Hundreds of runners continued to pass me. I eventually found some runnable parts and got into a bit of a slow rhythm. I ran some parts with Brandon, and others with Dan and Rita.

After about 14 miles on the AT, there was a steep descent leading down to the towpath. What a relief! The AT had been really beautiful. I'd like to return and hike some of these areas some day. But run? You gotta be kidding.

The towpath began at mile 16, and I had run, if you want to call it that, that first section in 3:08 or so. We would be on the towpath for just over 26 miles, and it occurred to me that I ought to be able to do those in about the same time as the previous 16. That, of course, might be conceivable if A) I'd been in good shape and B) I hadn't just completely trashed my legs on the AT. So yes, I had thoughts of at least running well in this section, but even that was in doubt; how much damage had I done to myself? If I continued at the pace I'd been going, I'd be in danger of not finishing at all.

It turned out that I *was* able to run again. And fairly well, too. My GPS told me I was doing my early towpath miles at 8 to 8:30 minute per mile pace, with a couple even faster than 8. I don't know how I was doing it, but I was doing it. And I was passing hundreds of those runners that had passed me. I ran a bit more with Dan and Rita, and some with Terry Hawk.

This towpath is not unlike the one I'm used to, except that it's a little softer, and many sections were covered with fallen leaves. Some said it was boring, but I didn't think so. There is the Potomac on the one side, the rocks, hills and cliffs on the other, and nice fall foliage all along.

I hit mile 25 in about 4:25, and I was still passing gobs of runners. It began to dawn on me that a PR was possible. I wasn't entirely sure, but I thought I'd done my other 50 in 8:30 or so. I'd run the distance a couple of other times as well, as part of the Mohican 100 and the Olander 24-hour run, but those were much slower still. The Chicago 50-miler had been five years ago, during an excellent year of running, and, being along the lakeshore, it was about as easy as a 50-mile run can be. JFK is coming at the end of a mediocre, at best, year of running, and the course was extremely tough. To beat 8:30, I'd need to do the second 25 miles in close to 4 hours for a big-time negative split. But I was running well, and my confidence was up.

Guess what happened next. Yes, I started to slow down a bit. I guess I was starting to tucker out. Now I was doing 8:30 to 9 minute miles. Some were slower than 9 minutes. I was also losing a lot of time at the aid stations. As with most ultras, they were well stocked with soup, GU, chips, pretzels, powerbars, coke, gatorade, pb&j sandwiches, etc. I would often stuff a bunch of pretzels into my mouth and then realize that I had absolutely no saliva with which to process them. So I'd take a big swig of water to mush them up. I'd usually take a GU too, and sometimes soup or an electrolyte tablet. So the miles where there was an aid station would take me 10 to 12 minutes instead of the usual 9 or so. Although slower now, I was still passing people. Just not so many. A few were keeping pace with me. And although slower now, I wasn't crashing completely; I was still holding my own.

According to my GPS, I finished the towpath 7 hours, 8 minutes after the start. And 4 hours and 1 minute since I began the 26-mile section. Not bad at all. The joy is in the journey. Yes, I really was enjoying myself.

The last 8 miles would be on asphalt roads. Immediately off the towpath I was met with an extremely steep hill. It felt strange to have to walk again, but I suppose I needed the break. After 5 plus minutes of this I could run again and eventually came to a sign that said 8 miles to go. Wait a minute. I thought it was 8 miles from the towpath, and my GPS now said 42.4 miles. Looks like I'd be getting a bit of extra mileage for my money today. A bonus! I was also met by some guy standing in the street in front of his house, yelling very bad words at passing runners and traffic. This was followed later on by a few locals holding signs that said things like, "JFK Runners Go Home - You're not welcome here on our roads". Strange.

Now I'd have to hoof it to get that sub-8:30. I'd have to average something like 9:30 or 9:40 per mile. And 9:20 to 9:30 pace was about what I was doing. Those early road miles were very hilly, so it was tough. Not to mention that all those previous miles had taken their toll. Could I do it?

In a word, yes. I kept that pace going all the way in, doing my last mile in a blistering 9:09. I finished in 8:28. It's been a long time since I've been so ecstatic with one of my runs, but this was ultra running as good as it gets.

I showered, ate, met up with my friends and other Ohioans, and then bussed back to the other school. A bunch of us went out to dinner, and of course everyone had a joy of the journey story to tell.

PS: I just peeked at my Chicago Lakeshore 50 results from 2002. 8:26. So JFK wasn't a PR. Or was it? JFK is OFFICIALLY 50.2 miles. So I hit 50 in 8:26 for sure. It's a tie. But JFK is still the better of the two - it's my best ultra of all time.

Disappointing Runs

After being so happy with my run at Inland Trail, my running since then has been downright lousy. I suppose that's to be expected, but since I finished so well, I was hoping to at least hold my own - especially after a week or so.

So when last week's running was slow, I wasn't concerned. I did manage a speedwork session where I did 4 x 1-mile at about 6:53 pace - about a half minute slower than the previous week. I thought this was fine. But Saturday's 13 (after 3 on the mill) on the towpath were really bad news. I had hoped for 20+ that day. Likewise, Sunday's 8 were very slow.

Today would be my day - I was hoping for a solid tempo run as part of my early morning 11-miler. Didn't happen. I just couldn't get moving fast enough. I wound up with 10 in 79+, followed a couple hours later by 3 in 23.5.

It just seems like running at a decent pace is a real chore, and then I don't feel like putting in the distance.

None of this bodes well for JFK this Saturday.

Marathon Heaven

Ever have one of those marathons where everything goes right? Me neither. At least not for a long, long time. But today’s Inland Trail Marathon happened to be a real keeper.

If your idea of marathon nirvana includes tens of thousands of runners, big expos, large numbers of spectators, big city scenery and landmarks, balloons, Kenyans, warm weather (forgive me, I’m not quite over Chicago yet), etc., then the Inland Trail Marathon probably wouldn’t be up your alley. But it was up mine. Cool overcast weather, no hassles with registration or the start, something like 100 to 200 runners, plenty of water and Gatorade, a 12+ mile rails-to-trails asphalt trail through woods and rural parts of Loraine County, and, did I mention good weather? That’s my marathon heaven, and this was it.

Of course there had to be one missing ingredient: me being in shape. I kinda figured that I was in about 3:15 condition, but it had been a while since I’ve even run that well. Could I do that today under these perfect conditions?

Temperatures were in the upper 30s at the start. (It was 48F when I finished.) There was a slight headwind that would be with us for the first half of this out-and-back course. That headwind felt mighty cold for the first mile or two. But after that it felt great. I started off at a 7:30 pace, which I figured would get me close to my goal. All I would need to do is to pick it up just a bit for the last couple miles. Right. Not to mention that negative split marathons had always been a rarity for me, especially of late.

Although most of my early miles were in that 7:30 range, I hit the halfway turnaround a bit slower than I’d hoped, in 1:39. I would have to pick up the pace earlier than planned. So I did. I started doing 7:10 to 7:20 miles. Maybe I was helped by the tailwind, or maybe it was the energy gel that I was now taking every 3 miles or so. Note to self: beware of PowerGel Tangerine 2xcaffeine AND 4xsodium. It was among the most foul-tasting messes that I’ve ever put into my mouth. On the other hand, it may have helped.

There had been perhaps 30 people in front of me as of the half, but I was picking many of them off now. I hit the 20-mile mark right around 2:30. Would I be able to keep that pace up until the finish? Short answer: yes. My last 6 miles were 7:11, 7:12, 7:17, 7:07, 7:16, 7:01. It’s always nice when mile 26 is your fastest. In fact, there’s no feeling in the world like it. My time was 3:14:40 and I was 2nd in my age group. This would’ve been disappointing during some of my better years, but here in 2007, I’m thrilled with it. Marathon heaven.

Recent Running and Social Events

Bin tapering for the week, so the only run of any substance was an 11-miler that included 4 x 1600 at about 6:22. The rest were mostly pretty short.

Went to a charity reverse raffle with Debbie's family but mostly my cousins. It was fun to see everyone. I've volunteered to try to put another social occasion together.

We went to dinner at Olive Garden with Kathy, Mike and Jessy last night. This was after a hike at Happy Days.

Today's Run and Florida Trip

I done good today - 11 miles including 4 x 1 mile @ 6:22 at the track. Very solid, but I'm not sure how many more I could've done.

We're arranging our trip to Florida - we'll stay on Marco Island. Sounds good.

Recent Running and other stuff

I think the temperature dropped about 10 degrees in an hour or so during my morning run. Caused me to put my gloves and headband in my shorts because heaven knows it wouldn't be *that* bad if my hands or ears got frostbite. I did manage to survive, and did 15 in about 2:09. Slow but steady. I'd had a lot of willpower problems, often on Sundays, but this one went ok.

Other running stuff: yesterday I only did 13+ on the towpath with Dave and Amy. Friday I did 8 on Substation, with a 6-mile tempo thrown in. Earlier in the week I had one decent dreadmill run, but mostly lousy running. Don't know if it was still more holdover from Chicago, or new from the half.

Speaking of the half, I earned $50 for my AG record award.

Friday we went to dinner and then a classical concert at BW. Lots of choral stuff, including some with Bob and Laura. Yesterday we watched a movie with Kathy and Mike,and today is Toni's baptim.

Today's Run and a Note to Dan

Another absolutely terrible run today. Once again, I was extremely tired and just could not move. I did 5 outside, and then 6 on the mill. At least those were a bit faster.

Here's a note I wrote to Dan Fox based on a question from him:

-----Original Message-----
From: Dan Horvath [mailto:runhorvathrun@hotmail.com]
Sent: Monday, October 22, 2007 5:14 PM
To: luminastudio@sbcglobal.net
Subject: RE: marathon stuff


Dan:

Nice goin!! You must've come in before it started getting warm. I think you probably had a decently cool start. I've always liked the Columbus thon.

Here's what you need to do to run Inland trail:

1) rest and recover
2) train hard
3) taper

Not so bad, but a bit tough to do in 2 weeks. Not impossible; just tough.

When I've done thons 2 weeks apart, I've run ok at the second one, but I don't think I've ever done it quite as fast as the first one - even when I've tried. But that's me. YMMV, of course, and I do know of folks who've made it happen.

Perhaps my problem is number 2. No, not that number 2 - I mean the one above. Maybe it's better if you skip it and just do 1 and 3.

As far as Mr. Wall goes, it sounds like you just met him. Dan, meet Mr. Wall. Mr. Wall, meet Dan. I think the best way to avoid Mr. Wall is to run some of your long runs progressively harder, such that you're running at marathon pace for the last 3 or so. That's what some of the elites do, and when I'm running well, that's what I do, and I think it helps.

In a small voice: About 10-20% of the time. But otherwise I think I've got about 0% chance of finishing strong. And there's *almost* no better feeling than finishing strong at a marathon.

Good luck and hope to see you there.

Dan

Dan Horvath
runhorvathrun@hotmail.com




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: runhorvathrun@hotmail.com
From: luminastudio@sbcglobal.net
Subject: marathon stuff
Date: Mon, 22 Oct 2007 14:04:09 -0400

Hi Dan,


Would you entertain a couple questions about training? The gist of this is that
I ran 3:37 in Columbus yesterday, which surprised me because I've been REAL
slow all year what with the ultra events. So for me this was the fastest marathon this year,
and about 3.5 mins. slower than my PR from '05. The idea that I could set a PR this year has
insidiously wormed it's way into my thinking!


The questions:


1. I passed through mile 24 at 3:12, and then blew up to the point of actually walking for a minute
or two a mile later. Do you have any idea what the heck happened? Was that "the Wall"? How do
you, yourself, train to finish strongly?


2. Do you think running the Inland Trail marathon on two weeks "rest" would be taking advantage
of whatever shape I'm in, or an exercise in futility because I would still be recovering from Columbus?


That's it. Any random thoughts would be welcome. Maybe I'll see ya in a couple weeks in Elyria.


DanF

Amy and Brett's and 8 in 80

We spent yesterday evening at Amy and Brett's for dinner, along with the Gajewski's. Nice time.

Been EXTREMELY hard at work lately, and those 5am calls are bad.

Just when I think that I cannot possibly run any slower, I do. Today I was soooo tired. It was extremely tough to just get out the door. I got nowhere near the 15 or so I wanted - I just did 8 tired miles in about 80 minutes. Bad bad bad. Maybe tomorrow will be a better day.

Stomp the Grapes

The weather was very good for a change; I had some hope for a really good run today. But NO - Instead I really stunk up the joint.

The race was the Stomp the Grapes Half Marathon in Navarre, Ohio. It’s called that because it starts and finishes at a winery. Parking was a problem for some of us – I had to park 1.67 miles away, according to the ole GPS. There were busses, but of course I wanted to warm up, and I wanted to run extra miles today anyway. My “warmup” totaled about 3 miles altogether. A possible factor in the outcome? Maybe.

The course is very hilly, mostly on country roads, but also through the village of Navarre and also with a few flatter miles on the towpath. I did quite well for the first 6, averaging about a 6:45 pace. I probably hit half-way in close to 44 minutes. If I could only keep this up and run even splits, I’d have a 1:28 or so. And that would be 2 minutes better than my last half, which was in the rain and high humility.

But a funny thing happened to me once I hit that towpath: I suddenly had to work real hard to keep that pace up. Real hard. Was it the dirt and crushed limestone surface? Or was there a grade? I now think it was a bit of both.

I struggled with some 6:5x miles, but was suddenly able to do a 6:28. But after that things went downhill fast.

Check that. It was actually uphill. Now I was doing 7+ minute miles. Mile 11, which I knew was going to be tough because it was all up, was a 7:39. The last couple were also uphill, and also slow. I simply had not realized how much down that first half of this generally out and back course had been. On top of the hills, there was a strong headwind for the second half.

My time? 1:31 flat. Maybe a few seconds below that for split time. My place? That part wasn’t so bad. I was 18th overall (and I have NO idea how many runners there were, but it seemed like 200-300). 1st in my AG was the first master, so they took him out. 2nd place had just turned 55, so he really wasn’t 2nd in my AG anymore. And that left me – 1st by default. Interesting award: a piece of slate from the roof of a 100+ year old chicken coop.

Recent Running

In spite of starting at 5am all week, I've been managing to get my running in:

3 Monday
11 Tuesday - 7 before work and 4 at lunch, all on the mill
11 Wednseday - 8 on the mill in the morning, 3 outside at lunch
11 today - all outside before work

Some of the mill running was decent - I did some tempo running Tuesday, and 6 x 1200 yesterday. Nothing earthshattering though. Hope I'm good to go for Saturday's Half.

Today's Run - 2007-10-14

Maybe it was the clambake and lack of sleep. Maybe it was yesterday's 16. Maybe it was still recovering from Chicago. Maybe all of the above. But today's attempt at something of substance - either a solid long run or some speedwork went poorly.

The weather was great - about 40 and clear. But I started out at 9+ minute miles and never got untracked. Only the last couple were decent at all. I wound up with 14. Maybe now I won't take tomorrow off.

Clambake - and today's run

Yesterday I made pizza and cooked it at Kathy and Mike's. Today they're having a clambake and Dave and Carol will spend the night here.

Today I ran on the towpath with Dave and Amy, and a bit with Chris. We're still in recovery mode, so we went slow. Also, Amy is recovering from frostbite that she got from icing her heal (you've always got to explain this).

One other thing - we're going to central Europe next year!

Competing Marathons

I've been reading with interest the posts about the two Indy marathons being so close in time. This happened in Cleveland not once, but twice.

The Revco/CVS/Rite Aid Marathon (the original one) is in the spring. One time someone decided to have a "Greater Cleveland Marathon" a week later. Many loyal Cleveland Marathoners were upset by this competition, feeling that there aren't enough runners to hold competing events. I did both (of course) and thought they did a decent job on the new one. They definitely had a nice course. They had trouble getting sponsors for the GCM the second year and scratched the race at the last moment, having only a 10K instead. And that was the last year for that event. The new race did have an influence on the old one, however. The old race changed from their traditional out and back course to one much more like that of the GCM in order to provide more variety and generally better scenery, and to better show off the city.

Then came the Akron Marathon. They decided to hold that one the very same weekend as my beloved Towpath Marathon, which is only a few miles away. Once again, many were upset by the competition - out of 52 weekends, why did they pick the same one? I keep thinking they were trying to put the TPM out of commission. If that was the goal, it didn't work. For some reason, both of these races are doing well now (a couple years late), although they are now a week apart.

ORN: 10 on the mill this morning including 8 x 1200 @ 9mph. Then 3 outside at lunch outside. I have to keep breaking these things up because of my work schedule.

Dan Dan Horvath runhorvathrun@hotmail.com

Recovery

Been reading lots about the marathon. Plenty of carnage and snafus.

I'm not doing too badly. Just sore and tired. 3 on Tuesday weren't bad, but yesterday's attempt at 11 went very poorly. I had to cut it short at 8, and even those last few were a real struggle. 2 more on the mill yesterday.

Today was a good day. I got up early for dreadmill speedwork, and it was one of my better sessions: 8 x 1200 @ about 5 minutes each. I've done faster, but at least these were steady, and I didn't hold on hardly at all.

I did 3 more at lunch in 25. Not bad, but I was pretty tired.

Chicago Marathon

Nancy Toby nancytoby@COMCAST.NET wrote:
> 88*F, heat index 91*F there right now...
>http://wcbstv.com/sports/chicago.marathon.heat.2.314226.html
> Did we have anyone running it? That would suck mightily.


I was there, and I managed to finish before they called it. But I did run much slower than I had intended. And yes, that heat did suck mightily.



Going into it knowing it could be record heat, I abandoned any hope of running fast, and instead adopted a "the heat is my friend" philosophy. In the first half, it really didn't feel all that bad. I was taking it easy, and I was mostly in shaded areas, thanks to the Chicago skyline. I hit that half-way point in 1:42 and change, and thought, ok, I've taken it easy; now is the time to pick it up.



Except there was one minor problem. That's also the point where the sun came up to the point of being more above than below the tops of the buildings, and it's where we runners were getting away from downtown anyway. With that sun, it felt like the temperatures skyrocketed. It had been a humid 75-77 at the start, and was probably well into the 80s now. Runners were making sudden changes in order to get to the side of the road where there would be even a bit of shade. I didn't have any problems getting water or gatorade, and I took plenty. And salt pills as well.



I managed to run slower and slower as that heat took its toll. Almost all of the runners around me were doing the same, and many were walking, dropping out, and getting first aid. I kept wondering how many would die today. Sounds like it's hopefully only one. I kept thinking about the volunteers and spectators being out in the heat as well.



The 8 minute miles turned into 8:30's and, for the last couple miles, 9's. I crossed the line in 3:35. Not a minute too soon. All I wanted to do afterwards was to GET IN THE SHADE. And of course there wasn't any to be found until long afterwards. I thought it was smart of the race organizers to get many extra tons of ice - I put the bag on my head, and held it up against other body parts.


ORN: I think I'll take a day off from running today.

Hot Times in Chicago and Spirit of the Marathon

I'm here, and it's hot. Low tonight should be about 72, with lots of humidity. Going up to 86 tomorrow.

In case you've forgotten, I'm the guy who's performance becomes affected when temperatures get as hot as the upper 50's. When they're in the 80s, it's a bit tougher for me.

By some quirk, my family and I got to see an advance screening of the film "Spirit of the Marathon" last night. Someone just gave us the tickets, saying she had extras. Pretty good running movie. Good for first timers and non-runners who have no idea what we go through. I thought it showed us runners as a bit too much into ourselves, taking ourselves a bit too seriously. Still an ok film though.

2:58

Not my marathon time... yet. It's going to be hot, so I decided it will only be a training run and that I shouldn't taper so much for it and that I should therefore run something of substance today.

As such, I took off early and ran to the track and did 5 x 800 in 3:00, 2:59, 2:58, 2:58, 2:57. They didn't feel all that fast on this hot morning. Nice going.

Now it's time for the bus.

Off to Chicago

Leaving on a slow bus.. don't know when I'll be back again. Megabus that is. Got it all figured out. I think. Kathy will take us to the RTA stop, we'll take that to Tower City, then get on Megabus to Chicago. Then we'll taxi it to Val's. Sounds like a plan.

I think it will be hot and nasty in Chicago. Not planning to set the world on fire. It already is. I'm thinking about a 7:30 pace, but I'll see how the weather is.

I have actually been running better lately. Last Sunday I did the 'ole Substation 11 in 82.5 minutes - 2nd best ever. That included 5 @ MP.

Then on Monday I went over to Hinckley to do that hilly 6. I wanted to do at least 3 at sub-7 pace, and I did, but they weren't consecutive. Still not a bad run in 43.5 minutes, with splits of 23 and 20.5. Afterwards I did 5 more extremly slow miles in the area, with even more hills.

Wednesday I did 10 on the mill, including a 3-mile tempo. Not bad. Today I did 3 on the mill and then 3 on the Presidents streets at lunchtime. I've had 4am counts all week, so it's been a bit tough. Luckily not as tough as it would've been had I not been tapering.

Recent Running

Tuesday I had an early call so all I had time for was 10 on the mill, including 6 x 1200. Not the greatest, but at least it was something of substance.

Yesterday was to be my last long run before Chicago. I had hopes that it would be a good one. It wasn't. I started off just fine, with 8 to 8:15 miles. Near the first stop at 12, I started to slow down. After the stop (13), I really got slow. I headed to the track to try to salvage something. I could only manage to do a few sub-8 (as opposed to sub-7) miles before heading back home. Altogether 24 in 3:28. Not that bad, but not good, neither. Humility didn't help.

Today I ran 10 on the towpath with Amy and Dave. Slow going in the darkness and the dampness.

Sippo Valley 10K

This was my 7th, and final race in the series. Or not. I can improve my standing by doing more - we'll see.

This one went almost exactly the same as the other 3 10Ks I've done this year. Slow. I couldn't seem to get going during the first half. After the turn around I did a bit better and I did manage to finish strong. Still nothing to write home about - 41:55 or so. 2nd in AG and 10th overall. (There was a tiny showing.) Splits were about 21:15 and 20:40. I suppose I'll take it.

Recent Running and the Fish Fry

Thursday I did 10 on the towpath with Dave and Amy, and yesterday (Sunday) I did 12 the same way. I didn't want to go too far because of today's 10K race.

After the yesterday's run Debbie, Kathy and Jessy came down and we all walked the Old Carriage Trail. Then we had lunch at Panera. Hard to imagine why anyone would go to McD's or Wendy's when Panera stuff is so good.

Meanwhile, Mike and Mikey were catching fish for our dinner. Debbie spent a lot of time filleting those little guys, and then she and Kathy fried them. Boy, were they good!

Thirty

Once upon a time, running thirty miles was not such a big deal for me. I had determined that doing this "over-mileage" was the answer to hitting the wall at 20 miles during my marathons. During one of these no-big-deal training runs, I actually ran 30 miles at an average pace of 7:30 per mile.

Those days are gone, perhaps forever. Thirty *is* a big deal now. Now that I haven't done it in several years. I felt the need to do it, and to do it on roads, because I've got Chicago AND JFK to look forward to. And I need to somehow train in such a way as to maximize my performance at both. So I got it in my head that I was going to do 30 road miles early this morning.

I was out the door before four. It was cool - in the upper 50s - but not bad. The couple drivers that were out probably thought I was nuts. Little do they know.

I did my 11-mile Substation loop in 95 minutes. A bit on the slow side, but that was ok. I'd pick it up later. Yeah, right. After a quick pit stop at home, I went back out for another 11 - this time my "new subs" loop. I did fine for a while, but the last couple miles were slower. This time I did the 11 in 97 minutes.

During the ensuing quick pit stop - my second, I really felt like hanging it up. 22 was plenty, thank you. I started running again before I thought too much about it. By now it was about 7:15 and getting light. I did 4 miles across 303 at mostly a 9 minute pace.

For that last pit stop (my third) at 26 miles, the voices were *really* telling me to stop. But as before, I started running again before I thought too much about it. These 4 would be on the Presidential streets, and they were *good and slow*. About 9:40 pace. Nothing I could do about that - just get through them.

So I was done by about 8:30, having completed the 30 miles in 4:27 - an 8:54 pace. Now I'm a little sore and tired.

The salt pills help - I took one at the start, and one at each of the first two pit stops. On the other hand, I'm not sure they help all that much either.

Today's Speedwork

It was decently speedy, but it was work. Since it was so nice and cool (46F), I wanted this to be fast, but easy. Perhaps because of my running for the past two days, it just wasn't easy. I did 3 x (1600, 1200, 800) in times which were about what I'd expect: about 6:25 for the 1600s, 4:45 for the 1200s and 3:04 for the 800s.

The thing that bugs me the most is that I've gone exactly nowhere this year. I'm right about where I started once I began getting in shape. Maybe these long distance long runs are doing me some good though. We'll see.

Recent Running and Movie

The weather has finally started to break. What a relief to get back to cool, crisp mornings.

9 on the towpath Thursday with Amy and Dave. It sure was DARK at 5:30AM. Couldn't see nuthing! Caused some of the slowest starting in a long time - till we finally got used to it. By then we could see a bit anyway.

3 on the mill followed by 22 on the towpath and other trails with Amy and Dave yesterday. Slow going because of the trails. Another nice cool morning.

I was surprised that I wasn't too sore this morning. Still tired, but not so sore. Ibuprofen helped. I managed to get 11 fairly slow, very hilly miles in.

We went to see 3:10 to Yuma with Iris and Mike Friday. This was after dinner at Buca's, where we talked about vacationing next year.

Ate pizza with Kathy and Mike last night. Nice walk afterwards.

Got our weekly call from Veronica last night. She's doing especially well at work; just got a big raise and other good stuff. She just wishes she could have a house though.

There was no moon...

But the sky was clear and the air was cool. So it was a run by starlight as I took off at 4:30. Orion was rising in all his glory. After all the warm, humid, hazy morning runs for the last few months, this clear, cool (50F), beautiful morning was a joy. I saw Venus rising during the last few miles. It was as bright as I've ever seen it. I almost thought I could see the disk. A gorgeous sunrise followed that, just as I was finishing up.

Since I awoke earlier than planned, I decided to run a bit more than I would have. The Abbeyville 16-mile course was just the ticket. OTOH, I haven't been running my long or medium-long courses such that they keep me away from water for long periods of time. From home, I'll do multiple loops, coming back home for pit stops. At the towpath I'm able to stop at the various rest areas. At the Lester Rail Trail, I keep returning to the car. This Abbeyville route, which I used to do, but haven't recently, would keep me away from any aid for the whole 16 miles. And the other question is: would my 'ole legs handle it? Even 3 days after Sunday's race and long run, they were still tired, with some tenderness in my left knee.

But it went well. Not great, but fairly well. Since this is the first time on this course since I've had the GPS, I was naturally interested in the actual distance. Of course it was short. .2 miles short. Oh well.

Most miles were in the 8:30 to 8:45 range, but 14 and 15 were slower. 16 was good again. I did 2:18. The old course would've been 2:16. Nice to have that under my belt.

Vegas (in 20 Hours)

I spent 20 hours in Vegas to take my cfps exam, so it wasn't a happy coincidence anyway. (I think I may have done ok on the exam; only time will tell.) Even so, I have no desire to go back to sin city. Here's what I wrote as I was in the airport, about to head home:

Everything they say about Vegas is true. Based on the less than 24 hours I spent there, I can see it for all its cliché’s: that it’s a tribute to American excess. A Walt Disney World for adults. A metropolis in a desert where no city should exist. And so on. Mostly it seems to be a place designed to separate people from their money.

And I don’t need that. Someone please kick me hard if I ever say I want to go back there. There are plenty of other things to see in the world. Vegas remains low on my travel priority list. Check that. Make it lower – somewhere between Chad and Nigeria.

More Global Warming Debate With Dave

After he saw the running related global warming article, Dave wrote:

> >From: Dave Gajewski
> >To: "Dan Horvath"
> >CC: runrx@cox.net
> >Subject: Re: FW: Article Submission for Personal Record
> >Date: Mon, 10 Sep 2007 13:38:24 -0400
> >
> >Cleaning up old e-mails....I couldn't figure out how I missed the 'Dave'
> >reference in Dan's g-warming article so I went back and read it. Funny to
> >see the date - 8/13/07...day when my life blew up w/ baby Toni. I must
> >have given it my usual scan, to read in full later. Sorry the 2nd read
> >took nearly a month.
> >
> >I have a lot of thoughts on the environment, global warming and politics.
> >Most of them I mention on runs are incomplete statements when I'm oxygen
> >deprived. Some day I'll put them down in an organized manner, as Dan did
> >below.
> >
> >In the meantime my biggest grip about all the G-Warming talk, as Amy
> >eluded to on our last run, is the hypocrisy of the people who will claim
> >to fix all this stuff (in exchange for your vote) by making rules for you
> >and me not to break while they continue to indulge.
> >
> >Coincidentally I found this article on Al Gore:
> >http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2007/09/09/wgore109.xml
> >
> >If Al feels so strongly about the harm that SUV's, chicken and cows
> >produce, why doesn't give them up? Would he ride a bike and go vegan? Or
> >would he just raise the price of things for you and me to pay (in the form
> >of taxes) which the government would then have $$ in-hand to use at their
> >own discretion? He's got a lot more money than all of us to pay extra for
> >a nice juicy steak or gallon of gas. And dog-gone-it, that poor farmer in
> >Brazil trying to produce food and shelter for his family shouldn't be
> >allowed to cut down a tree in a rain forest in order to plant some crops
> >(says the guy in the mansion with the $10k/month electric bill). Al
> >should sleep well at night because he writes a b.s. check each year to
> >some imaginary fund that automajically 'offsets his carbon usage.'
> >
> >Environmental stuff shouldn't be a political issue. We all need to stop
> >pissing all over the world and hold each other accountable for doing so.
> >
> >Good article, Dan!
> >
> >
> >
> >Dave Gajewski
> >I/T Manager - Policy Admin Program Office
> >network# 625-9424
> >


And then I replied:

> From: runhorvathrun@hotmail.com
> To: Dave_Gajewski@Progressive.com
> Subject: Re: FW: Article Submission for Personal Record
> Date: Tue, 11 Sep 2007 07:43:34 -0400
>
> Hi Dave,
>
> I know what you mean by those oxygen-deprived deep thoughts on the run - I
> feel the same way.
>
> I honestly don't know whether Al Gore, or any given movie star, is a
> hypocrite or not. I don't spend time worrying about it, because as strongly
> as I feel about the planet, I myself still use my home's A/C, drive a
> non-hybrid car, take vacations, etc. If Al Gore were president, he'd
> probably be even more wasteful than he is now. If someone preaches global
> warming and eats meat (as in this article), does that make them a hypocrite?
> How about if they drive a car? Live in a house that's heated and cooled?
> Taken to it's logical conclusion, we should all kill ourselves in order to
> stop breathing out carbon dioxide.
>
> I think that for some people, the message itself has become too difficult to
> attack, so they're attacking the messangers. What I'm trying to say is that
> I don't think that hypocrisy should be the issue at all. The fact that it
> has become so, only seems to point out the fact that global warming *is*
> political.
>
> Now, if you want to get political, what about a god-fearing christian
> starting a war on nothing but a whim? A war in which hundreds of thousands
> have died? That's my definition of hypocrisy.
>
> Ooops. Sorry for the bashing. I'll stop now. Really.
>
> See you Saturday - Nice job at the Buckeye Half under tough conditions.
>
> Dan Horvath
> runhorvathrun@hotmail.com
>
>
>