Catching Up

A few things going on. Sorry I have not written in a couple days. Life...go figure.

1) Friday - Ran the course for the Ravenswood Run 5K to check the state of the course. A few potholes here and there, otherwise I thought it was good. I ran at a decent 11:30/mile pace. As it turns out I won't be running the race. Why.....

2) I have been asked to be volunteer coordinator for the race. Pretty exciting stuff. So I will be getting volunteers to designated places on the course and in the packet area. Very cool.

3) This week start No Boundaries. For the regular readers, you know I coached this last year. It is a beginning running program. So happy to be doing it again this year. Out first group run is this coming Thursday.

So there is a bit of a catch up. I will be going over my marathon plan in the next posting.

Charlie

Marathon Training Plan Part 2 - Preview

Scott sent me the rest of the marathon training program for me to review today. I'm not ready to post it yet, but it looks like I will be introducing tempo runs and long runs into the mix, as you might suspect. Towards the end I will be doing some Yasso 800s. Scott has developed a plan he believes will allow me to run under 6 hours in Toronto.

I am still looking through the plan, and post it here shortly.

Charlie

Wonderful Run - Facing What May Be

Today was a wonderful Spring day. It was sunny, cool and I ran 6 miles to Evanston. For those who are not familiar, Evanston is just north of Chicago, home of Northwestern University. It is a lovely town with stately homes along the lake. I ran from my home along the lake, and went through the nice neighborhoods and parks. It is one of my favorite runs to do here.

I felt good. I ran harder than I had on Monday, but after the sheer boredom of that run, I decided to go a little harder today. I ran in 1:11, which is 11:50/mile. I'm a bit sore now, but I felt good on the run, and overall I am good now.

I spoke with a woman who returned a pair of running shows. She said she has arthritis in her hips, and she has to have replacement surgery. Her issues are not mine, but it makes me very aware that I may not run to old age. While that saddens me, I am glad to have this time to train and to run. Is that a bad thing?

In the end I don't think so. To stop running would be the wrong thing for me to do. This time I have to run is precious to me. The last year was hard on my because I could not run. I am sure as my body wears out, I will need to find another fitness endeavor, but for now I am running to the end.

Charlie

The Slow Six Miles - Time to Think About Mark

Today the goal was to run 6 miles, but at a slower pace. I wanted to go about a minute slower that I normally do. Iran 1:12:33., which is a 12:05/mile pace. So not a minute slower, but it sure as heck felt like it. I did not enjoy the run. I don't like trying to go slower on purpose. If I run slow, that is one thing, but this drove me nuts.

Still I was very happy to chalk this run as finished, especially after my disappointing run last Friday.

So what I thinking about on the run? Today I was thinking about Mark. I don't talk about Mark much, but he has been such an incredible support for me. On those days I don't feel like a run, he tells me I have to go do it. When I am feeling bad about my run, as I did last week, he reminds me there are other runs, and gives me a hug. He has come out and volunteered with me at races. He has come to cheer me on. At the end of the Proud to Run 10K last year, he was standing at the finish line smiling, and holding a bagel for me. He is a sweetie, and I love him.

Now he is about to start running. He wants to get into it, because he knows it is part of a healthier lifestyle, and he wants to come with me on a run or two. I'm touched he wants to join me on a run or two. We'll see if I want him to run with me....as you know I like my alone time. No doubt we will run occasionally together though.

Today...slow...but good!

Charlie

Upon Further Review

As my friends on Facebook will tell you, I was not happy with yesterday's run. The goal was 6 miles. I ran 2.15. I knew there was trouble at the start of the run. My thighs were hurting, and my left IT Band was annoyed. I gave it an easy run though, and felt I needed to stop. I took about 10 minutes after the run to really stretch out, and I was glad I did. I think that helped.

Yesterday I was working hard. We got a huge shipment of shoes, and I was constantly lifting, climbing, etc.. I think my body told me it just could not do 6 miles.

I get very hard on myself when I don't meet my running goals. I have to learn, or re-learn that my body is a limited entity, and it can only do so much - hence the re-evaluation of how I feel. Had I written this last night, you would be reading a very different entry.

So I start the next round of 6 mile runs on Monday....a couple days rest will help.

Charlie

Making the Run More Manageable

There comes a time as you increase distance that you have to do things to make the miles seem more manageable. For me it is dividing up the miles. I wanted the run to seem manageable, so in my head I broke it into 2 mile increments. This worked well for me. My overall time was 1:10:57, and my pace was 11:49/mile.

I have to say I felt great on this run, and the breaking it up made the run seem easier for me. This may be the way for me to deal with the longer runs as they get longer and longer.

Thoughts as I was running? Where am I going? No, I don't mean where am I going on the run, I mean in life. This is an age old question for me, one that is not always answered. Mark and I think about moving out of Chicago, but where? What would we do. So a lot of that was in my head today.

Today was a good day!

Charlie

The Next Step

Today was my first 6 mile run in a long, long time. The last time I ran 6 miles was the 2008 Soldier Field 10 Mile. It was after that race that the wheels began to fall off. After yesterday's snow and ice I decided to head to the gym.

I felt good body wise, though I could tell I was not where I would normally be. I have to give myself a break though. I have not gone to 6 miles in about a year, so my body is not used to it. It will be.

I am running 6 miles three days a week for the next few weeks. The pace, as always with a new week of miles starts slow. My pace was 11:58/mile. So the goal is to lessen in as the time goes on.

A good run today...better runs ahead.

Charlie

Frozen, but the "Thank Yous" Warm Me

Welcome to Chicago on March 29, 2009. Let me restate that - MARCH! Not December as it felt out there this morning. We had rain/snow/slush for today's Shamrock Shuffle. No....I did not run it. If I had registered, I would have stayed in bed.

Today Mark and I volunteered. For the record, Mark is an incredibly good sport. He said he would come out and volunteer with me. Neither he nor I expected a winter storm. Our job was to get hte Gatorade ready at the first aid station for the 8K race. About 35,000 were registered. Conditions were raw and brutal.

We had to be there at 7:30 this morning, and we checked in promptly. We got two tables set up, and I lost the feeling in my hands - with two pairs of gloves on. They gave us a break before the race started, and we waited inside a condo building with other volunteers.

Mark was giving me that daggers glare. I reminded him that no one made him come along. He is a good sport though, and wanted to be there with me. For the record....I greatly appreciate his being there today.

He could take no more once the race got going he ducked into a building. I started passing out Gatorade and the waves of runners came by. The elite atheletes did not take any. These folks were in singlets and all things short...and they looked CCCCOOOOLLLLLDDDDD! 2004 Women's Olympic Marathon Bronze Medalist Deena Kastor was entered, and I cheered her on as she whizzed by.

I'l be honest....I did not enjoy this experience until I started getting thank yous from the runners. This made me feel terrific, because if I were out there running, I would be so glad there were volunteers there to give me Gatorade. I made sure no matter how cold I was, I gave a smile to all runners, and gave them encouraging words!

All in all I am glad I did it....next year? It better be 50 degrees out there!

Charlie

Two Months Down....6 Months to Go

After two months of training here are some stats:

Miles run - 97.3
Avg. Speed - 5 m.p.h.
Avg. Pace - 11:58/mile
Calories Burned - 15,768

The most important stat is that I am feeling great at this point. Now that I have miles under my belt, and have been riding the bike, I am about to work on core strength, which I think will be a key for me.

Hard to believe it is just 6 short months until I start the marathon in Toronto!

Charlie

Biking Hard...and Listening to a Pig

Tonight I was at the gym, and I biked hard. I did a 10 mile ride in 29:20! Phew! That is some work for me folks. I was sweating like there was no tomorrow. Still I felt good. At one point though I felt I was pushing a bit too hard with my knees, so I backed off a bit. At the end of the ride it was all good.

After my workout I went to shower. As I was getting dressed I listened to a conversation a couple of lockers away from me. Two stunningly handsome men were talking. You should know, if you don't already, I go to the gayest gym in Chicago. It is in the heart of Boystown!

So one guy asked the other what he had for lunch. The second guy told him - salad, with grilled chicken. The first guy began to chastise him for having chicken. The salad offender said he needed the protein. The other guy told him that protein won't help him look good. "This is how you get fat," he said. Let me assure you the body fat on these two was maybe 10%-15%. No one was in danger of getting fat. The guy who was irked told him this meant they had to work out longer tonight. The other guy looked dejected and followed him as they headed out into the gym.

Now I don't know the nature of the relationship, and I don't care. The guy who got mad over chicken was a pig in my book. C'mon....grilled chicken on a salad is NOT the end of the world. Grrrr!

Charlie

"Oh I'll Just Go With You"

The title of this entry was told to me by one of my roommates. He is having some health problems, and thinks running will solve it. Three things: 1) Running, while it helps with health, does not "solve" the issues he has. 2) He is a not someone I really care for. 3) It irked me that he thought he could just go on a run with me.

I nicely tried to tell him that I really prefer to run alone. It is my time to be on my own, get away from the world, meditate, and just be by myself. He said, "Oh I totally understand. I ran track in school." Huh??? No, I don't think he gets it.

Don't get me wrong, I don't mind someone who wants to go run with me from time to time, but he was talking about all my runs. Of course there is still the point that I just don't care for the guy. I can't imagine running 4-5 miles with someone I don't like. Torture!

I know though, his idea of running is the latest in a string of things he is thinking to "cure" himself. He is HIV+, and he thinks there are ways to rid his body of the disease. His last idea was to go to Mexico, and have someone smear cow semen on him, which would "purify" his body. When he asked me what I thought, I told him if that were true, cows all over the world would have millions of people looking at them funny. So now he believes that by running, the lymph nodes will open up, and drain the disease away.

I feel so sorry for him in his condition, and I am happy to help him research things to help manage his HIV, but miracle cures are not something I am on board with, especially if they involve Mexico and cows.

Maybe I will let him go for A run with me, just to see if he would like it, but I would rather encourage him to run on his own, or find a group. I' m more of a loner.

Charlie

5.25 Miles in a Headwind

Today's 5 miler turned into a 5.25 miler. I was approximating the route, and when I mapped it when I got home, I saw I ran 5.25 miles. No worries. It was a cool day. Temps in the 40's, as I headed south from home. I ran along Sheridan Rd, past Loyola University and on to the Lakefront Path. I ran the beginnings of the path, and then headed home. My time was 1:01:31, which is a 11:43/mile pace. As you can see I am quickening the pace. I won't make it to an 11:00/mile pace, but I am doing pretty wel.

I felt sluggish for the first mile. After that I just felt clunky. I know not a great technical term, but I remember saying to myself, "Hmmmm....clunky." I passed other fellow runners. No one was in a cheery mood today. No one said hello. No worries....it isn't required. I still nodded, and occasionally greeted them.

I am pleased with the run. I was able to keep a decent pace, and I felt good afterwards.

Charlie

5 Miles....Could Have Been 10!!!

Today I felt terrific on my 5 mile run. Rain meant running indoors, and I had an amazing run. I felt like I could have gone 5 more miles. That is good my friends.

The time was 58:18, which is an 11:39/mile pace. Scott's plan wants me to get to an occasional 11:00/mile pace. I am not sure if that is possible with the run/walk I do. Right now I run 8 minutes, and walk 1 minute. Sometimes it is 7/1. So if I can approach 11:00, that is fine, but I am pretty happy with the way I am running at the moment.

So today was a great success. Looking forward to tomorrow's bike ride.

Charlie

End of Week 7

Here we are at the end of week 7 of the training. Today was a 5 mile run, and I am happy to say it went very well. I did run at the gym for convenience purposes. Overall a great run. My goal was to finish in under and hour and I did - 58:56. Not too shabby.

I worked up a good sweat as I went along. I listened to Phedippidations, as Steve Runner talked about the benefits of morning runs. I understood what he said, but I think it is not always easy to run in the mornings. Sometimes work dictates I run at other times of the day. Still, as always, it is good to listen to Mr. Runner. Congrats to him on his entry into the Boston Marathon. I know he is setting the bar low for this one, but in my book anytime you accomplish a marathon, you have done yourself proud.

So overall I think the week went great. I ran 15 miles and biked 22 miles. I feel darned good. Physically this is the best I have felt in many, many months. While I am no where near where I want to be physically, I think I am on my way.

Charlie

Lakefront Path - 5 Miles

This morning the 5 mile route was along the wonderful Lake Michigan shoreline. I love running on the path. It winds through Lincoln Park, and the water looked cold, but calm.

As for the running, I was clunky, but I was fine with that. This was my first run on the path for 2009, and I was just happy to be out there. I took more walking breaks than I like, but I needed them. Still I finished the 5 miles in 1:01:29. Not too bad. I don't want to get too slower, and I can always go a bit quicker. Right now I am not worried about speed. I just want to get the miles in, and I am pleased with everything.

There were few people out running, so I really felt like I have the path to myself....except for the occasional biker. The temps were in the 30s. I was layered, and felt comfortable for the most part. When I finished the run, I felt I could have gone another 1/2 mile. That is a successful run to me.

Charlie

10 Miles on a Bike - HARD RIDING

Yesterday I was not in a good mood. I was pissed. I found when I am pissed, I ride a bike like I have the Devil chasing me. I zoomed on the bike at the gym - 30:20. My last 10 mile ride was 31:48, so I cut that time down. At one point I was going a sub 3 minute mile(where is that speed in my runs?). So needless to say it was a great cross train for me.

I also weighed myself - 210lbs! I have shrunk a bit, and I am feeling good.

Today is a 5 mile run....so you get a second post from me today - woo hoo!

Charlie

The Evanston Loop - 5 Miles

Today I ran 5 miles of my loop up to Evanston. It was wonderful out, and I really enjoyed running along Lake Michigan. My pace was 12:06/mile. Not outstanding, but I was happy. Everyone on the path today had a look of happiness at being outside. I was one of them. I have missed these runs, and I look forward to more of them.

I am realizing though I am not a strong runner at the moment. My core is not strong as it should be, and I will devote a good portion of the next month to getting into a good routine where that is concerned.

So I was very happy to be out there running today. Another 5 mile run is logged.

Charlie

Little Things to Stay Motivated

When I turn on my computer and the initial screen comes on, a map of the marathon course is facing me. When I have some free moments, I look through my book on Toronto. When I think about what I have to do I read and re-read my training plan. These are some little things I do to stay motivated. I want to be sure I have this race in my sights. I want to be focused for it.

It would easy to feel a bit down that I did not do the 15 miles I was supposed to do this week, but the bottom line is I have a lot of miles between now and race day, and I will be fine. The marathon is not a success of failure based on my not running 3 miles this week. I was a bit hard on myself last night. Today though is a new day and I am fine.

One other thing I have to stay motivated are the comments people leave me here, on Facebook, or notes sent to me cheering me on. It means a lot that people would take that kind of time for me.

So these are some things to keep me going.

Charlie

Sometimes We Don't Make It

I was not smart today. I admit it. I was going to ride the bike, but instead I attempted to run. Time is a premium tomorrow, so I was going to squeeze in my 5 mile run, but this is after yesterday's run. Note to self....do not run consecutive days. I had no energy, and I was beginning to ache. I backed off after 2 miles.

Sometimes we don't make our weekly goals. This is when we have to suck it up, and just move on to the next week. Can't beat ourselves up over it. I feel silly that I did this. I most likely could have done it after work tomorrow, but it would have meant a brutal day for me. So I will focus on three good 5 mile runs next week.

For now I am glad the week is over and I am resting.

Charlie

How We Move Through Space

When we run we are moving through space in interesting ways. I thought about how I move through space as I run. Most runners you see on TV have some amazing gazelle like ability and grace. That would not be me. I'll be honest, I have no idea what I look like as I run, but I know the term gazelle does not come into play. I feel I plod.

On a daily basis I watch people ru, and I make no judgements, because I know how I run. Well....there is one runner I have judged, because he looks so darned funny running - Former Gov. Blagojevich. He has the oddest gait I have seen. He looks like he could be a penguin, but there seems to be something stuck in him(where I won't say). Odd.

So that was my odd thoughts as I ran 5 miles today in 59:33!

Charlie

Catching Up With a Run

It's been a few days sorry folks.....

A bout with bad Chinese food kept me from running the other day. It would not have been pretty.

Yesterday I ran 5 miles. I felt good that I finished it, though far from my shiniest moment. I ran it in 1:03:41. Respectable for not having run 5 miles with any regularity, but I was only ok with with it. Still a 5 mile run is a 5 mile run.

On this run I thought about what it takes to win a race. I have never won a race. I know I won't, but I was thinking about the people who go all out to win. Specifically I thought about cheats.

I have ranted before on cheaters. I am a person who really looks dimly on performance enhancing drugs. I imagine there are pressures by elite athletes to win, but what about those who will never win? What about the folks who cheat to better their times? Don't they understand it really isn't them who is bettering their times? It's the drugs. I cranked up U2 to get to a more positive place in my head.

Race wise.... I have registered for the Rock n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon in August. I really didn't want to do it, but it will fall at a good time in the training, and I will need a big race under my belt as I head to the marathon. Still.....racing in August. Ugh!

Tomorrow will be another 5 mile run....hoping for some improvement.

Charlie

4 Miles - Outdoors and Happy!

Just a word of advice to all who already know...there is a big difference between running outdoors and running on the treadmill. I know you all know that, but it was a bit of an adjustment for me this evening as I headed on my run.

Tonight's route was 4 miles of the fun run route my store has. It starts at my store, and makes its way to the river. I really enjoy running along the Chicago River, and have missed it.

The start of the run was a bit rough, only because it was an outdoor run, and it took me a good two miles to get into a groove. Once I did, I felt pretty good. Music choices tonight were The Counting Crows, Justin Timberlake and U2. Now THERE is a combo of music.

I have truly missed the great outdoors. If the the weather can cooperate, I will be outside for the norm.

Tonight was my last 4 mile run. Next week, I kick it up to 5 mile runs, three days a week.

Charlie

The Fast Four

Today was what I hope will be one of my last regular treadmill runs for a while. I ran a very speedy 4 miles today - 46:10. My heart rate average was 143 bpm. I felt great. It felt like it took little effort to do the run.

I had nothing pressing on my mind. I was thinking that I was asked again to coach the No Boundaries group for my store. No Boundaries is a beginning 5K program sponsored by Fleet Feet and New Balance. I am so psyched that I get to coach this again. Last year I got coached 14 women, 7 of which ran their first 5K. I love coaching, and I have some ideas in my head how to improve on last year.

So a great run, and great news today!

Charlie

Speedy Work

Last night I did a pretty quick 10 miles on the bike - 31:48. Well that's speedy for me. :-)

I was riding along with U2, or at least listening to the new album. While I was doing that, I found it odd that people would get on the bikes for short time. Do you really get a workout if you are in the bike for a couple minutes? And what's up with the people who are reading while on the bike? That just looks wrong to me.

I thought it was a good cross train though. Today the goal is a 4 mile run.

Charlie

Understanding My Limitations

As I have detailed here, I have some strikes against me in my quest to run. My clubbed feet and corrective surgery has left me with limited range of motion. This, in turn, has led to arthritis. I can still run, but I have to really understand that I am limited in what I can do.

I have to tell you that hurts. I am not one who likes to be told he can't do something. In fact it gets me pretty angry. So instead of being angry, I have to figure how I can to what I do.

My marathon training is going well so far. I need to do more to be stronger. That will be my facus this month. More than that, I really need to understand what my limitations are. I also have to accept those limitations. Yesterday was another reminder that I am not the runner I would like to be. So now I have to focus on the runner I am.

Charlie

The Adventures if a Non Trail Runner

Yesterday was one of my store's Historic Fun Runs. This run is a running tour. A tour guide takes a group of people out on a run, and makes stops along the route to discuss the historical significance of the area. Our run yesterday was a tour of the area where the old Riverview Amusement Park had been.

http://chicago.urban-history.org/sites/parks/rivervie.htm

This was a 5 mile run. When we started out, it was snowing lightly. The temperatures were in the 20's. The run turned into "blizzard" looking conditions. As we went on, it snowed harder and the wind really whipped. In addition, we ran along trails by the river and in parks and woods.

I know fully understand why I am not a trail runner, or a snow runner. While I think all that running is beautiful and fun, it kills my ankles. Because of my very limited range of motion, I can't handle the uneven surfaces. I am in a lot of pain today.

My job was to be sweeper - I was there to be with the back of the pack. I was able to do my job, but I was in pain. I was very glad the last two people wanted to walk the last little bit. Still I completed the 5 miles. Time is not an issue on these runs.

My physical limitations make me sad I can't do things like trail running. The silver lining is I should be glad I can run. Still I feel I am missing out on something. Trail running seems like it would be a terrific thing to do.

Charlie

One Month Down

The first month of training for the marathon is history. Here are some basic stats:

12 runs
Miles run - 42.1 miles
Min/Mile pace - 12:00/mile
Avg. HR - 149.2 bpm

I am happy with how I am doing. I am feeling good, and can tell I am making progress. I have gone from 216 lbs to 212.5 lbs.. I am not too concerned about weight at this point. I just want to feel the running is going well, and it is.

I wish the weather would cooperate so I could run outside more, but I am appreciative of the running - period. True, as I get into longer miles, the treadmill would kill me...or I would kill it.

Now I look to see what races I might want to do leading up to the marathon in September. I know there are 5ks in the future. I do want to run the Soldier Field 10 Mile in May. I need to plan a half marathon. Sadly, I think that will be a summer race - ugh!

The only thing I don't like is limiting the running to 3 days a week. I am told that down the road I can do 4 days, but that is not in the near future.

For now...thumbs up on the training. Thanks to all who have been encouraging. I truly appreciate it.

Charlie

Tired and Sore, but Feeling Good!

Tonight I ran 4 miles in 48:00. I had been on my feet all day, and at the end of the run I felt good, but a bit sore. I made sure to stretch and take a colder shower for my muscles to recover.

As I was running, I was looking around at the gym, seeing who all was there. I have now gone to this gym for several years, so a good many of the people I have seen before. I think all the New Year's resolution people have given up already! I feel very comfortable at this gym, so seeing all the regulars makes me feel at home.

As for the run itself, I felt good. I did not tire until the last mile of the run. I think the standing on my feet all day finally got to me. I was a bit weary. I think that slowed me down a bit at the end. Still 4 miles is in the bank, and all is well.

Charlie

15 Miles....Way to Push The Pedals

Tonight was a bike ride at the gym. I was determined to ride 15 miles. Man that was a tall order. I did it, but dang was it tiring! I think a 15 mile run might have been easier. It took me 50:03 to get it done though, and I was pretty happy with the ride. I did not really tire until the last couple miles.

As usual, my biking "friend" was Rachel Ray. She made steak hash tonight. Looked yummy. A few less hot peppers would be in my recipe.

So how do I think I am doing? I think so far, so good. I want to add strength training to the routine, and maybe pilates. Bike riding though is a good stamina building aerobic training move.

Another good training day.

Charlie

4 Mile Run - Thoughts on My Shoes

Today I had some time to think as I ran my four miles, which is did in a great 47:39!

Quite often I am asked by customers what I wear. I usually tell them that what I wear works for me, and that it should not be a consideration in what they purchase. Still I get asked. So I will talk about my shoes at length for a bit.

I wear the Brooks Dyad. It is not a flashy or well known shoe. There are some at our other store that have a disdain for the shoe. Poor little Dyad.

I supinate like no one else I know. So I need a neutral shoe which is pretty solid in the heel. I used to alternate between the Dyad and the New Balance 1060 series. The New Balance 1063 was a horrible mess for me. They have made it a softer shoe, especially in the heel. Since I go so far over on my heel, I need that support. So now I am down to one shoe. God help me.

Around the store I do wear the Nike Air Moto or the Mizuno Rider. Both are decent shoes. Because of my width, the 2E in the Mizuno is not something I can run in, but it is ok to walk around at the store. I would like to give Adidas a shot sometime.

There are very few options for a runner like me. I hear from the reps comments like, "Oh I know you are a Dyad guy." I am, but that is because I have to be. Yes, I love my shoe, but I am willing to wear something else if it could only work for me.

For those curious....here is the Dyad! http://www.brooksrunning.com/prod.php?p=1100381D&k=123205

Charlie

Stories to Tell

Quite often the owner of our store talks about "the stories we tell with our running." He's on to something. Over the last couple years I have listened to people as they share their running stories with me. I have listened to the woman who came back from a horrible stroke, and all she wants to do is complete a marathon. I have wondered how the young man who told me he was running a marathon, but only trains 1 mile a day would have done(not too well I suspect). There are the people, like me who run to keep healthy. All they want is quality years to their lives, and they have found running does this for them.

There are the amazing stories in our sport which draw us in.....

Alberto Salazar vs. Dick Beardsley in the 1982 Boston Marathon.

Joan Benoit Samuelson winning the first women's Olympic Marathon.

Roger Bannister running the first sub-4:00 mile.

Ryan Hall qualifying for the 2008 Olympic Marathon, at the same time his friend Ryan Shay dies during the race.

Usain Bolt flashing across the track to be the world's fastest man.

You don't need to be a name to have a story to tell. Your story does not have to be a compelling heart tugging story. It can be simple. Your story is just as interesting as the next person's.

Let me throw this out. I think these stories need to be shared. Would people be interested in a book about this? If so, I keep thinking I would like to put that kind of book together. Thoughts?

Charlie

Not Running, and Still Running

I think it is safe to say I lead a running life, and have since 2004. For five years I have loved, not only running, but getting to know the running community. As you know, in addition to my running life, I have my other running life. I work with runners. I enjoy being around runners. I get to talk about running all day long. I also get to help runners achieve their goals, by getting them properly outfitted to run.

I think if I wasn't doing this I would bore my non-running friends to tears. For all I know, I do anyway.

So what do I love about being the running community? Overall I deal with some pretty happy folks. Very rarely do I encounter a grumpy runner. I love the spirit of camaraderie. We tend to celebrate our successes together, and cheer each other up when our goals have not been met. We encourage. What is there not to like about that?

Every now and then there is the runner who is obsessed with shaving a 1/2 a second of their best mile. I think of them as the Type A runners. Typically though runners work hard to better their times. We may obsess about it, but it is not all consuming. For the record I have met someone who is obsessed with shaving 1/2 a second off their best mile, and they get a bit um....how do I say it....NUTS about it.

I have been blessed to be a part of a wonderful running community, both online and in real life. I have met some wonderful people, and made some wonderful friends. All in all, I am so blessed to be part of such a wonderful community.

Charlie

End of Week 3 - 4 Miles

As I started my 4 mile run today, I was pretty pleased with myself. I am 3 weeks into the training, and feeling pretty goood. Am I where I want to be as far as strength and stamina? No. Considering I had not been running much prior to this, I think I am doing very well.



Today's gym run was at a decent pace was a 12:05/mile pace, so I was closing in on the 12:00/mile pace. Next week I kick it up a notch. I am still trying to find a way to pace myself, so I do not tire at the end of the run. The tiredness is happening later and later in the run, so that is a good thing.

I weighed myself. I tipped the scales at 214 lbs, which is up 1lb from where I was. Not too upset about it. I am getting better with the eating as I get more into the training.

So all in all a good week. Looking forward to next week - another 4 mile training week.

Charlie

Travel Channel and 4 Miles

So normally at the gym, I watch the Food Network, but today I discovered the Travel Channel. Looks like I have an option to Rachel Ray and Paula Deen. :-)

Today was a good, but tiring run. I ran the 4 miles in a 12:02/mile pace. I felt good for most of the run; however I noticed two things - around mile 2 my right hand felt a bit numb, and in the last mile I was getting tired. I found if I relaxed my right arm a bit the numbness went away. I think the tiredness is I am not used to the 4 mile run. My stamina will improve.

Overall I was happy with today's run. Tomorrow is a cross training day.

Charlie

Thoughts on a BIke

Tonight was my bike riding cross training night at the gym. It didn't feel very productive. I think my head was not into it tonight. All day I had kind a feeling like I just was not getting things right. So I took that feeling to the gym, and while I went through the motions, I just did not enjoy my workout.

I was thinking about work, life, the troubles my boyfriend has in life, my family, oh....the world. This is such a down time in our lives. By that I mean if we are not living in another depression, it sure feels depressing like we are.

So while I rode almost 6.5 miles, I felt like I was on a 1000 mile road to nowhere.

Yes...I realize this is a depressing post, and I apologize. The mood I am in is a downer tonight.

I think the other thing that bothered me was I really miss running every day, or close to every day. I feel very limited to the 3 days a week running. It feels like a restriction on me. I suppose it is in a way. I understand at some point I will be able to run at least one day more a week. Until then though this is a killer. I need to figure another method of workout.

Charlie

The First Four Miles

Today was the start of the four mile weeks. This week and next week I will be running 4 miles, 3 times, with a goal time of 12 min/mile. Today I did the 4 miles in 12:10/mile. This run felt really good. I had zero pain anywhere, and it was such a relief to run and not feel bad somewhere on my body.

I was at the gym...because I was a wimp at 15 degrees outside.

I found the heart rate interesting. I felt very good, and my max bpm was 148. My average was in the 140-144 bpm range. I felt good and could have pushed myself, but I wanted to get through this run without feeling tired, and I succeeded.

Today I listened to a very cool podcast called "Coffee Convo." This is a fun podcast about...coffee. It really kept me entertained during the run. Podcasts are a God-send to me. It makes me feel like I am running with someone.

So today I chalk up as a great running day. Got two more runs to do this week.

Charlie

Valentine's Run

Yesterday my achillies was acting up, so I postponed my run until today. Snow overnight meant I would head back to the gym. Today was the last 3 mile run before I go up in miles next week. My own goal was to run 3.1 or 5K.

I did just fine. No pain, and I felt great during the entire run. I finished in 36:43, which is not too shabby for me. My average bpm was 155, and my max was 160. I felt comfortable and loose the entire run.

So two weeks are done training wise. Next week I start the 4 mile runs every other day. So everything seems to be going well. I am going to email Scott and Dr. Natarajan and let them know how things are going.

Feeling good. Happy Valentine's Day.

Charlie

So a Guy Comes Up to Me.....

Sounds like the start of a joke, but it wasn't. I was at the gym running my 3 miles tonight(wind and rain kept me inside). Now I should tell you I go to a pretty darned gay gym. It is in the heart of "Boystown" in Chicago.

Anyway, I am running my 3 miles, watching Rachel Ray(my new best cooking friend). A guy comes up to me and starts talking. I take off my earphones to hear him. He says, "That looks good. I've been watching from behind." Did he mean me or the food? I smiled and nodded and said, "The steak looks good doesn't." He smiled, said yes....and the other things.

I would really like to think he was being flirty. Of course if Mark were there, he would have jumped over a few treadmills to get in front of this guy....or so I like to think. :-)

The run was a good one. I needed to pick up the pace today, and I managed to do it very well. I was pretty tired though the last .75 miles. Still I got these three miles in and am happy.

My bpm averaged at 155 for most of the run. The last mile it went up to 160. I wonder if that is because I am working harder, or know the end is coming up?

Charlie

Biking and Rachel Ray

Last night was a biking night at the gym. I find a good bike ride at a "furious" pace is a good cross train for me. Sadly....biking at the gym can be dull. But wait...who is that on the Food Network? Rachel Ray? Yes!

For the 30+ minutes it takes me to ride the 10 miles, I can learn how to cook a dinner. Ray is not a typical cook. In fact, I don't think she is a chef, just a woman who knows how to throw a meal together in 30 minutes. Now I have never tried to cook a meal like that in 30 minutes, but something tells me it takes a bit longer.

Still Rachel Ray is entertaining, funny, and gives me ideas for dinner. This is all good when you are on the second most boring machine at the gym - the treadmill still is winner on that one.

As for the bike ride...I went at a good clip - 10 miles in 32:42!

Charlie

I Ran Outside

The title of this entry has not been spoken in months. Whether it has been weather or health related, I have not run outside in a long time. That changed yesterday. I laced up the shoes and headed north to Evanston. I mapped out the 3 mile run, and off I went.

I got into a nice groove about a half mile into the run. I had the heart rate monitor on, so I was seeing how different it was from being inside to outside. I got to my max heart rate quicker I noticed.

It was a cloudy day, in the 40s, which is fine for running. The snow was mostly melted. Once snow melts you see how trashy we can be. I saw uncoverd trash all over the place. In the IPod = the new U2 song, among other rock hits. I wanted to rock out...and I did.

My time was 12 min/mile or 36:00. A comfortable heart rate for me was 154 bpm. During my walking breaks I was at 139 bpm. Overall I felt great. I felt like I was really into the run. My achillies was pretty good as well.

It was not only a good day....but a happy one.

Charlie

Week 1 - Done

Last night was my third run of the week. The goal was 3 miles at a 12 min/mile pace. I did it in 36:06, which is a 12:02 min/mile. It was a good run. My feet were sore sore from being at work all day, so I was stiff at the end of the run, but overall I was good. My heart rate maxed out at 155.

So this first week of training is done. Lessons? Time to work on some strength and flexibility. Next week I am going to look into a pilates class at the gym. I will accomplish a strength workout. The running goal is another 3 day 3 miles a day plan, this time though, the time is a bit faster. The goal is to be between 11:30 and 11:45 a mile. There is no speed training with this training plan, so maybe we call this an accelerated pace. It would also be a pace I would aspire for on marathon day.

Some folks have wished me well on this journey this week. I just wanted to let you know I appreciate all the well wishes.

Charlie

A Natural Feeling

It is an amazing feeling when your running feels like a natural part of you. If feel in tune with your body. Your breathing is good. You feel relaxed. That was my experience during my 3 mile run today. With temps hovering around 0, I was on the treadmill. I felt great.

My body felt like it is was like it's old self, before all the injuries. My breathing was calm, and not labored. My heart rate went up gradually. My first mile my average was 135 bpm. The second mile - 145 bpm. On the last mile I averaged 156 bpm. Nothing felt hard or difficult about this run.

Yesterday's cross training was a 10 mile bike ride at the gym. Felt good.

So in the early stages training is going well.

I ran into my former marathon coach...he has finally qualified for Boston, and will run it in 2010. Kudos to Scott!

Charlie

This Week's Plan

Yesterday I kicked off the first day of my 32-week training plan for the marathon. Here is what week one is supposed to be:

Run 1 - 3 miles 12 min/mile
Run 2 - 3 miles 12 min/mile
Run 3 - 3 miles 12 min/mile

In between those days I cross train and rest. Today is a cross train day. Have not decided what my cross training will consist of today. I know it will involve heading to the gym and working out for at least 45 minutes.

So how was I after yesterday's run? I felt good. As the day wore on I could tell my Achillies was a little sore. A 3 mile run, and then standing all day will do that. I was very happy to come home and climb into bed. This morning I feel fine. We'll see how I am after my workout this evening.

Charlie

The Road to Toronto Begins.....

Today was the start of my journey to the Toronto Waterfront Marathon on September 27. The first run was a 3 mile run. The goal was a 12 min/mile pace. Since I had not been running much, I was pleased to run in 36:42, which is a 12:14 min/mile pace. Not too bad. My average heart rate was 155 bpm. I think I am getting the hang on this heart rate monitor stuff.

This is a good first step on a very long journey. I was feeling a bit emotional as I finished the run, because this marathon means a lot to me. I have not trained for anything like this in a while. More importantly, I want to know that I can do this.

I am going to have some really good days. I am going to have some really crappy days. I hope you all will bear with me as I go on this journey. It means a lot to know I have support out there.

So here are the stats at the start of this training. While I would like to lose weight, I have in my head getting down to 200 lbs...or less. A couple weeks ago I was tipping the scales at 216.5 lbs. Today I weighed myself -213.5. Good way to kick this off.

My time goal is simple - 5:59:59. I REALLY want to finish with a sub 6 hour time. The training is designed to get me there.

My training is running 3 days a week, slowly building. Cross training is a must. On the non-runnning days. I will be cross-training. Rest is important too. At least in one day I won't run. In my next post, I will show again the training plan for the first 11 weeks.

So the goal is set...the training plan is set. Now all I have to do is DO IT! Wish me luck.


Charlie

Retooling

Next week I start the marathon training plan. I was not able to run yesterday. My Achillies was bothering me. Between now and then I am trying to stretching and strength exercises I have discovered, and will work on healing my ankle area.

Part of my problem is I have incredibly tight calves. This is due mostly to the foot issues I have. So I have to really dig in and stretch more. I don't stretch enough, and that can be a reason I have so many issues now. So that will be my focus of the next few days. I will also do some biking at the gym.

Charlie

The Cost of the Marathon

Chicago runners, and anyone interested in running the Chicago Marathon got a jolt this week, when it was announced that this year's Bank of America Chicago Marathon would cost $125 to register. For the last two years registration was $110. I figured it would go up, but that is quite a jump.

Immediately a joke came to mind - is this our economic bailout of Bank of America? In reality though the costs of marathons is most likely very high. City police, sanitation, and other workers have to be paid. Streets have to be blocked off. Water and food have the be purchased. There are so many costs involved with putting on an event the size of the marathon. Sadly sponsorship dollars can only cover so much. The cost trickles down to the runner.

What is a runner to do? Does the higher costs mean we run fewer races? In 2007 when I trained for Chicago, here were some of my costs:

Registration: $110
Training Program(FFC): $300
Shoes - 2 pair $100
Gatorade/gels/nutrition for training and race: $50
Shirt: Included in my training program
Shorts: $20
Body Glide: $7
Socks- 3 pair: $20

Total - $607

Then there was the other costs; the training time. I ran 5-6 days a week. Time spent away from friends and loved ones is not measured. NOTE: My equipment charges are cheaper due to working in a running store.

Yesterday I did some figuring for this year's Chicago Marathon(for a non-running store employee runner):

Registration: $125
Training(FFC)$300
Shoes - 2 pair: $200
Nutrition: $75
Shirt: $35
Shorts: $35
Body Glide: $7
Socks - 3 pair: $30

Total - $807

In these hard times, spending that kind of money is a serious decision runners have to make. Clearly there are less expensive training programs, so some costs could be lowered. Still, it is a lot of money.

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon will sell out. It always does. I wonder though, as sponsorships become scarce, what our costs will be in the future? Will we continue to pay larger sums of money to run these races. Will races begin to shrink in numbers? Running is still one of the cheapest sports to participate in, but maybe this means we race less?

Charlie

8 Months From Today

Folks eight months form today I will be running the Toronto Waterfront Marathon. Yes...I will be running it. As God is my witness, I will run this race. I will start my training next week. I am actually feeling pretty good. Today there was no Achillies pain, and I am knocking wood, that when I run tomorrow I will be fine.

A good sign came today - my new shoes. My training shoe is the Brooks Dyad. Since Brooks had the good sense to make this in a 4E wdith, I am one happy runner!!!

Tomorrow I head to the gym and am attempting a 3 mile run.

1 mile at a time....1 mile at a time.

For inspiration I have the marathon course map posted wherever I think it will do me good. For more info on the marathon go to www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com

Charlie

Today's Goal - Completed

Today's goal was 2 miles...and I did it. I headed to the gym, and ran on the treadmill, with my trusty heart rate monitor strapped on. I am still learning about this "running computer", but it tells me my max rate today was 159 bpm. I assume that is good - I'm still alive. :-)

The run was pretty good. I ran it in 23:57. My achillies felt ok. It was never sore, but it felt tender towards the end of the run.

So two more miles are in the bank, and I feel good that I am moving again.

Now who out there can tell me about these darned heart rate monitors?

Charlie

Monday's Goal

It has been a few days since my Achillies hurt. I have made it to 1 mile. Tomorrow I take the next step and shoot for 2 miles. Again, I am not looking to set the world on fire. I am just taking my recovery one step at a time....literally.

As I have been helping runners at the store the last few days, I have seen how excited people are at starting to run. It is contageous. I want to share in that fun. I want to run gosh darn it.

I am coming up on 8 months before race day, and my preliminary training is supposed to start this week. Cross your fingers for me.

Charlie

Today's Workout

Yes....it does feel good to say I went to the gym today, and had a workout of sorts.

I ran for 1 mile on the treadmill and then rode the bike for 4 miles. It was a good beginning for a return. My Achillies did not hurt. It felt tender, hence I stopped at the 1 mile mark.

As an added bonus I tried my heart rate monitor for the first time today. I now own Suunto t3c.
It is easy to use. The directions seem simple. Once I do some road work, I will use the foot pod, and use the speed and distance aspect of the piece.

So while I am not back. I feel today was a good first step. I feel good!

Charlie

No Pain for Two Days

Yes...you read it right, I have not felt Achillies pain for a couple days. While there is tenderness there, I am not feeling pain. This is a good thing.

No worries thought I am not about to run 10 miles today. I am going to give it another few days before I start running again. But this is good news!!!! Very happy.

:-)Charlie

216.5

I have always been clear that I would be honest with you on this blog. One of the points of writing this blog is to hold myself accountable to not only me, but to those who read this blog. Having said that, I need to explain the title of this post.

As of this morning, I weight 216.5lbs. Those who know me well, will understand when I say I take this number as a personal disappointment. I never wanted to see 215 again, but here I am, above it. This is what happens when you fall off the running/exercise routine.

There are many reasons as to how this has happened. My various injuries have really kept me from being as active as I have been. The truth though is I have been eating more, and not eating well. Because I am an emotional eater, you can guess I am eating because I am either stressed, unhappy, or both. These days I am both.

I won't go into the reasons as to why I am in this bad place. I will say I am working towards gaining control of the situation, and am hopeful to get back to a better place emotionally. In the meantime I went to the gym today and biked for 20 minutes, and worked out on the elliptical for 10 minutes. I felt pretty good afterwards.

So now I need to focus on my diet. I have not lost the good habits, I just need to be aware of the bad habits I have fallen into.

While I won't weigh myself every week, I am determined to get back to a weight I am happy with in the next few months. Ideally I would like to be around 200lbs or less. So there is my goal.

Charlie

Watching People Run

This winter I have had the opportunity to see quite a few people running in the snow and cold. Chicago has had a rough winter as far as snow and cold. Some thoughts cross my mind as I watch these hearty souls brave the elements. First among these thoughts is, "Are you nuts?"

I realize people think I am nuts to run, but come on, these people really are. It has been below zero this week, and I see folks out there. If I can barely walk in this cold, how can someone run? I don't know if there are enough layers out there to keep someone warm when it is -2.

Maybe these people have running streaks going? Maybe they lost a bet? Maybe they are secretly Yetis?

I know the answer. These are people who truly love running. They thrive on the outdoor challenge. Now I am not saying you don't love running if you aren't out there in a snow storm. This is the weather wimp talking here. I just think there is some determination out there that really drives these folks. Good for them, and I wish them great runs.

Charlie

Doctor's Visit

So today was my checkup. All went well. Dr. Natarajan was pleased with my leg strength. We can say case closed on the IT Band issue. He checked out the achillies issue. He told me it would heal soon. He gave me a prescription for an anti-inflammatory, and recommended PT. I am still not sure about that. I've written how I really don't enjoy it.

The good news is he really liked the marathon training plan and my running in the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in September. Woo Hoo! He thinks I can train in a couple weeks. Double woo hoo!

So all seems to be on the upswing. I took the medication, and I have to say I am noticing a difference already. While I won't start running tomorrow, if the pain is gone by the end of next week, I would like to see if I still remember how to run. :-)

Charlie

Tomorrow - The Doctor

Friends will tell you that I really don't like going to the doctor. That changed when I found Dr. Natarajan. He has got to be one of the nicest doctors I have ever met. He is encouraging, knowledgable, understanding and a runner.

Tomorrow I meet with him. Originally it was just to go over marathon plans. Now I have to talk to him about the achillies issue. I am hoping he will tell me I can still train. Maybe he will have some other positive news for me.

I want to stress the importance of finding a good doctor to work with. You want to make sure the doctor is listening to your needs, issues and concerns. I have had doctors seem like they are listening, but never am convinced they are. Mark's doctor is like that, and it pisses me off.

This doctor wants me to continue running. He has told me if he were another kind of doctor, he might tell me to find something else to do. Dr. Natarajan tells me he wants me as active and happy as possible. Tomorrow I will find out how I can do more of that.

Charlie

Pain...and How I Hate It

So sadly, this is yet another post about me not running. The pain in my heel and achillies area has been bad. Today I have an appointmet for a theraputic massage. Next Friday I see the doctor. I am so unhappy about this, you have no idea. Actually some of you hard core runners knoow what I am saying.

I hate pain. I am also not a very nice person when dealing with pain. I get grumpy and short. People should steer clear of me when I am in this mood.

I have decided to take it easy and not run, even on good days, because I am afraid of what may happen. I felt good a few days ago...and bam it hurts again. Arrrgh!

Charlie

Tired of Pain

Yes, I ran the other night. Yes I was in pain most of yesterday. I am not a patient runner, and I know few who are. I am just so tired of being in pain.

The Achillies pain is not as bad as it has been, but it is bad. Arrrgh....I was supposed to run today. Instead, I am going to cross train. I am determined to do this. I need to hit the gym.

The holidays saw 4lbs come my way...not happy about that either. Running has been my best way to keep the weight in check, so I am at a loss at how to do this.

I know...I know...not a great post. Must be the mood I am in.

Charlie

Two Ugly Miles

In the log it simply states - 2 miles - 24:39. A slow pace to say the least, but I was damned determined to run in some capacity tonight. I hit the gym, and took it slow. I took walking breaks every 5 minutes. My legs were not great. I was still feeling the effects of the pain of the last week, and my ankles felt stiff, but I did it - I ran 2 miles. In fact they are the first miles of the new year.

I didn't feel great during my run. I wanted to stop at one mile, but I told myself to get to 1.5 miles, and then I could quit. Once I got to 1.5 miles, I thought...ok, just a 1/2 mile to go to two, let's go. I chugged along, and as I have said, I did it.

I go to the doctor next week, and I want to go with the thought that I have some runs under my belt. Tomorrow...no running, but I will be back on Thursday.

Charlie

Damn Achilies Pain

Google is an amazing thing. All my symptoms point to achilies tendonitis. DAMN! I am so tired of being hurt and in pain. I want to run!!! So I am taking it easy - yet again. Some of my fellow runners will feel my frustration at not being able to run. Arrgh!

Today I am contacting the New Balance rep, and let her know what happened. I am so angry right now.

Charlie

New Balance 1063 - PAIN!

Over the course of the last two years I have worn two shoes for running: The Brooks Dyad and the 1060 series by New Balance. As many of us do, I usually groan when I hear a shoe has been changed. I liked the 1061 and really liked the 1062. I was told by NB that the 1063 would be a bit narrower and had a new last to make it performance driven.

I ran in the shoe a few weeks ago and my ankles hurt. I thought it would be ok to walk around in though - I was wrong. BOY was I wrong.

A few days ago I wore the shoe for the day, and on the way home I felt a twinge in my achillies area. Yesterday I wore the shoe....and all the way home I had sharp shooting pains in my left achillies. I had to have Mark meet me at the EL and help me home the pain was so intense. Today I am still hurting. I am hoping to run tomorrow, so I am really going to be angry if I can't run.

So what happened to the shoe? I am more of a mid-foot striker. The shoe is now designed for more forward motion, and the heel is very soft. Because of my severe supination, I roll way to the outside. I had no support. The result - PAIN!

I will let our New Balance rep know what is going on. She already knows my run was not successful. Because NB is going in this direction with most of their shoes, I am doubting I will be able to wear them for a while. For now I don't want to. Wish me luck as I hope to go for my first run of 2009 tomorrow.

Charlie

Welcome to 2009

Happy New Year Everyone!

The new year brings new promise to all runners. For me this is my return to serious running. This is also my 5th anniversary of running. 2004 was when I took my first steps as a runner, and I fell in love with running.

So I think my goals for the year are pretty clear: to become a stronger runner, with the ultimate goal of finishing sub-6 hours at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon. I also want to do more racing in anticipation of the marathon. If there are some 8K's I would like to do, and a half marathon. I am entered in the Mini 500 Half Marathon in Indianapolis in May. We will see how the doctor feels about that.

I am very much looking forward to the new year. I hope everyone has a healthy and prosperous 2009.

Charlie

The Year in Running - 2008

There were some amazing stories over the course of this year. I am not ranking them, but I would say these were the top stories in the running world. Feel free to submit your thoughts and opinions.

9.69 - Usain Bolt set the world record in the 100m in Beijing. His performance was effortless, and in the video it looks like if he hadn't slowed at the end, the record could have gone even further.

Oregon Men - I have to say this is one of my favorite moments of the year. Eugene, OR hosted the Track and Field Trials for the Olympics. The 800m final was thrilling. Nick Symmonds came from the back of the pack to place first. Second and third place were fellow Oregonians - Andrew Wheating and Christian Smith respectively. Until last 200m, Symmonds stays in back, then he pours it on to win. Wheating is a shocking second, and Smith fell forward to take third.

Joan Benot Samuelson and her last competitve marathon. Samuelson took the road in the 2008 Women's Olympic Marathon Trials. She was not going to qualify, but she wanted to set an age group record in the marathon. She finished 90th overall with a time of 2:49:08, and set the American record for women 50-54. Trials champion, and Athens Marathon Bronze Medalist Deena Kastor was at the finish cheering on the Gold Medal winning Samuelson.

Dean Karnazes races the world. The Ultramarathon Man ran the 4 Deserts Challenge this year, and won the overall title. This is a grueling set of races, where runners run across the following deserts: Sahara, Atacama Crossing, Gobi and Anarctica. Karnazes is one hell of a runner, and his journeys inspire runners all over the world.

The Men's Olympic Marathon. There were three main stories here: the weather, the winner, and the Americans. The weather in Beijing was always going to be an issue. Poor air quality and humid conditions were what everyone worried about. Haile Gebrselassie, the world record holder, declined to compete due to the possible conditions. In the end, a Kenyan, Sammy Wanjiru took everyone by surprise and took Gold - a first for Kenya in this event, in a time of 2:06:32. Americans did their country proud by placing 2 in the top 10. Dathan Ritzenhien and Ryan Hall finished 9th and 10th respectively. Clearly the Americans are becoming relevant in the marathon world.

Berlin is FAST!!! 6 of the top 10 marathon times have been accomplished at the Berlin Marathon. This year, again, Haile Gebreselassie lowered his record in this event - 2:03:59. Folks not to out a too fine a point on this, but that is FAST. Usually at that time I have covered about 10 miles.

So there are the stories of the year in my humble opinion.

2009 is already looking to be an interesting year. Kara Goucher and Ryan Hall are entered in Boston. So you know that will have the running world's attention.

Happy running to everyone.

Charlie

Running Break

Last week I did not run due to weather and Christmas. This week...the flu! I feel horrible, and want to curl into a ball and die. Still I know this too will pass....the flu always does, but it makes you feel so miserable. ICK!

Later today I will go over some highlights in the year of running.

Charlie

2008: Charlie's Year in Review

"Recognize your victories." JOAN BENOIT SAMUELSON


In looking back over 2008, it would be easy to say that this was a year of failure for me running wise, but upon further thought....it wasn't.

My racing was highlighted my two 10 mile races - the Cherry Blossom 10 Mile and the Soldier Field 10 Mile. While running them, I wouldn't know that those would be the longest races of the year. A bad IT Band, and coping with an arthritis diagnosis would be my challenges.

So what were my victories? I was able to get back to running. That is a major victory. I am beginning to get my running stamina back.

Athletes always have an off year. We are going to chalk this year up as an off year.

Looking ahead.... I start training at the end of January for the Toronto Waterfront Marathon. I would also like to run some cool races during the year in preparation for the big one in September. I have a sound training plan. If I learned anything this year that I can take into the next is patience with my running. A 32-week marathon training plan will take patience.

So I am going to take a deep breath, and "run" into 2009! Happy New Year!!!

Coming next - the year in running around the world.

Charlie

Some Adjustments

As I prepare for marathon training, there is one thing I will have to make adjustments for - metric readings. The race will be in kilometers, not miles, so I have to plan for that. Today I found a pace chart done in kilometers. This gives me a rough estimate on what I should be doing each km.

In order for me to finish in 5:50, or there abouts, I need to run 8:20 a km. There are 42.2km in a marathon, or 26.2 miles. I now have a pace chart as a guide. This should give me plenty to think about during long runs....hehehe.

Also.....

I have ordered a heart rate monitor. After a couple years looking at them, I am getting a Suunto, which will not only measure my heart rate, but my speed and distance as well. I will go into more detail about the HRM once it arrives.

Charlie

I Am Official

I am not an official entrant of the 2009 Toronto Waterfront Marathon. Woo hoo! Yes....I have a goal... a big one. I am so ready to take it on. Official training begins in a month. Until then, I am working on my base and strength.

Goals for this race? Same as the last marathon attempt - to finish, and finish under 6 hours. I feel I have a good plan, now all I have to do is train. Hehehe....ALL I have to do is train. Yeah.

I will go over all of this with the doctor in a few weeks.

Hope everyone had a good holiday. Will have some year end thoughts in the next day or so.

Charlie

Happy Holidays

Later today...if the weather permits, I am off to visit family in Wisconsin for Christmas. I doubt I will be running on this trip. More importantly, the goal is to avoid being a pig, so when I do run next, I don't feel gross. :-)

In the meantime I want to wish all of you a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukhah, Kwanza, and whatever festive celebration you may be observing this time of year.

Peace....
Charlie

Baby It's Cold Outside

This morning it is a nippy -5 F outside. Brrrrrrrrr! Personally I don't think anyone should go run on a day like this. Good thing it isn't run day for me. Brrrrrrrr!

The week ahead will most likely see little running. Tuesday I head up to Wisconsin to spend Christmas with my cousins. It will be very fun and festive, and a lesson in self-control. No one, and I mean NO ONE goes hungry at this gathering. There will be food galore. So the "plan" is to enjoy, and do my best not to over do it on the food. Yeah....right. :-)

The winter months - for we are now in winter, usually means we gain a few pounds. I'm ok with a couple pound gain, as long as you are in some way exercising. Even it if it cutting back due to the holidays, exercising and moving is still important.

So now....let practice our egg nog lifts. Take the class...and lift....and down....lift....and down.

Charlie

A Steady Long Run

Today was another 4 mile run for me. I have to say I felt absolutely great during the run. I was at the gym and happy to be running. My time was 47:40, which is a nice even pace for me. My goal was to run for 7-8 minutes, then walk 1 minute. I followed that until the end. I did do a 5 minute run, and 1 minute walk, and that is fine.

As I was nearing the end of my run, I thought about running a little more, but held to my plan to just run the 4 miles. I don't want to ramp miles at this point. I made sure I increased 10% this week over last week. I don't want to do anything which will jeopardize the recovery I am in.

Charlie

Snow Day

We have been hit with a lot of snow overnight...again. So I have decided to look out the window and see the pretty snow, instead of running my longer run this week.

"But Charlie, you're a wimp, you head to the gym on days like this."

Yes...yes I do, but it's my rules, and I can change them. Hehehehe.

I was reading some articles from Runner's World about the year in review. There are plenty of things to look at when it comes to 2008. I will go over those in the next week or so. Fight it as I may...I am not ready for a year end posting.

So my day will be taking it easy, then heading into work.

By the way....last minute shoppers....gift cards from your runner's favorite running store is a terrific gift(shameless plug).

Charlie

A Run and an Anniversary

Yesterday was a really good 3.1 mile run. We had a big snow storm the night before, so the roads were pretty bad. The gym is my friend in conditions like that. So off I went to the gym. I plugged in the IPod, and listened to Steve Runner, The Killers and some delightful Christmas tunes. My time was 36:31, and I was pleased with how I felt after the run. A good sign of a successful run, in my book, is if you feel you could have run a little more(note- unless it is a marathon, and you feel you gave all you could). When I was done, I felt I could have done one more mile. That will wait until this week's longer run.

Today is an anniversary day. It is my second anniversary with Fleet Feet Sports! Yes for two years I have been a shoe guy, making sure runners are properly fit, and ready to pursue their running goals and dreams.

It has been a pleasure to work with runners these last two years. Some of my highlights include:

Coaching the group of women this last summer to run their first 5K.

Dining with Dick Beardsley

Listening to the woman at Thanksgiving tell me I sold her, her first pair of running shoes, and now she is a runner.

Privately laughing as I watched Gov. Blagojevich run in our store(you would have to see him run to understand). As a rule I NEVER judge the people who run in our store...he cracks me up though.

Working with great co-workers, who make everyday a pretty good one at work.

Learning to be patient as a customer tells me they want a Brooks Adrenaline, size 6 in pink, when they are a size 8, and it does NOT matter what color the shoe is.

My duties are ever expanding at the store. I work with local business and charities, and I have enjoyed that, and will continue to do that. Our owner is dedicated to expanding our reach into the community, and am happy to be part of that. I look forward to a good future with Fleet Feet!

Charlie

2009 Marathon Announcement

I have shared that I have been looking for a marathon to run in 2009. I have spent about a month researching marathons which would fulfill the following criteria:

1) A fall marathon

2) Flat

3) Interesting for me to do.

Ok....clearly the third is optional. :-)

Because of my arthritis, I have to do a 32-week training plan. So as much as I would love to run Boston, it is in the Spring, too soon to train, and I haven't qualified.

So the list I formed were the following:

Chicago Marathon

Toronto Waterfront Marathon

New York Marathon

Fox Cities Marathon

Detroit Marathon

Portland Marathon

Here is how I narrowed it down.....

I would truly love to run New York, but at this point, I think it is a bit too hilly, especially at the start and at the finish in Central Park.

Fox Cities would be near cousins, and I think it would be a blast, but again, I saw one hill too many for this go around.

Portland Marathon would be lovely, but being the wimp I am, I worried I would be running in the rain, which is a possibility.

The 2007 Chicago Marathon still holds a bitter taste in my mouth. There will come a time where I feel I have unfinished business on that course, but that time is not 2009.

So I got it to the final two Detroit and Toronto.

Detroit is flat, and at one point goes below sea level. In fact you go under a tunnel, and have your underwater mile timed. Now who would not want that?

Toronto is along the shores of Lake Ontario, and the course elevation map looks like someone flat lined.

Detroit is in October. Toronto is at the end of September. Both are not mega-marathons. So no 100,000,000 runners on the course. Detroit's dips over to Canada and back. Toronto's is all in Canada. :-)

In the end though, I have decided to run the 2009 Toronto Waterfront Marathon! The course has good reviews. I like the allure of an international marathon. Of course I love the flat nature of the course. So now all I do is go over this with the doctor.

The race is September 27, so training will begin at the end of February, following the 32-week plan that has developed for me. I am so excited about this. I have a goal! Woo Hoo!

Of course I will be happy to finish. I still have hopes of a sub 6 hour marathon - same goal I had for Chicago. We will see what my hips have to say about all this.

Very excited and happy that I have made this decision.

Here is the course map ----

Charlie

3.1 Miles and New Balance

Today I got a pair of New Balance 1063 shoes. When I have run in New Balance, I have run in the 1061 and 1062. The newer shoe is build on a different last, which is designed to be lighter, and more performance driven. So how did it handle during my 3.1 mile run? I'll stick with my Brooks Dyads for the time being.

The shoe felt sloppy for me, and I felt like my ankes were twisting around. I was sore during the last mile, and I wanted to stop, but I was determined to get this 3.1 miles in. I am not sure if I like the cushioning. I am going to let New Balance know how I feel. They gave me the shoes looking for feedback. They may not like what I say.

Otherwise, I was happy to get my run in today. I am slowly upping the miles...very slowly. I am going to stay within the 10% rule.

Within the next few days, I will announce my marathon selection. I think I know which one I will do. Just want to do a touch more research.

Charlie

Three Days....10 Miles

Mission accomplished. As I have gotten back into running, the goal has been to run three days a week, and today was day number three. The goal was 4 miles, and I did it, bringing my miles for the week to 10 miles. Can't remember the last time I ran double digits for the week, and it felt good.

The run itself was a gym run, as it was an icy rain outside. As you all know I am a weather wimp of the highest degree. Still I felt good the entire run. No pain. No stiffness. No wheezing. All was good. Who knows, maybe I'm back to somewhat normal?

After the run, I felt I could have gone another half mile. That is a good sign, but in no way would I push that.

So now I feel I am really ready to focus on my goals for next year. I am assembling a list of marathons to go over with my doctor, and one will be picked. In the meantime, I am so happy to be running!

Charlie

Before My Run....the Past is the Present

Facebook is a fascinating social network. For those of you not on it.....where have you been?

Probably the most interesting aspect for me is reuniting with people I have not heard from in years. Those already on Facebook have encountered people they knew in high school, lost loves of the past, and people they just fell out of touch with. For whatever reason, we go to Facebook, find them, catch up, and have these people back in our lives.

During my years at Loyola, I became good friends with Jessica, or Jess. We had several classes together, and hung out all the time. In fact, she was really my only friend during my time at Loyola. No, I wasn't some lonely geek. It's just that I had the college experience earlier in life, and my time in Loyola was as a 30 something going back to school. Jess and I just hit it off, and we were best buds.

After Loyola we went our separate ways, and am unsure why or how we lost touch. This week I found her on Facebook, and we have been exchanging notes. Turns out she has become a Triathlete. How funny, because I can assure you that back in those days, the only running she and I might have done would have been to run to the store for a good bottle of wine, or to the coffee house for a cup of coffee.

Of course, our lives are different now. She is married, and has an adorable son, living in the burbs. I have a great boyfriend, and working hard these days. Our common bond is the running aspects of our lives.

Today on my Facebook, I noted that I am determined to run my 4 miles today. She shot a note back saying she knows I can do it! All of a sudden it feels like old times.

We have yet to meet up and actually talk. I know that will happen. Glad to know you are there Jess. I have missed you!

Charlie

Quiet Day

Today was going to be a 4 mile run day, but after an accident at work, where I hit my head, I did not feel up to running this morning. I'm better now, but I wanted to rest. Tomorrow I will tackle the 4 miles. If I can do it, it will be the first time I have accomplished the 3 runs a week goal, and I will be one happy camper.

Charlie

Random Thoughts on an Off Day

No running today, that will be tomorrow. Here were some things I was thinking about as the day went by.


Why would someone who comes into my running store, telling me, "I heard you guys are the experts," then turn around and tell me, "Oh these won't work, they aren't green." Honey I AM the expert, and your feet do not care if the shoe is green or purple, it will work for you!!!


Whoever invented the soft cushy wicking socks was a genius!


I may not look good when I run, but I feel DAMN good when I have run.


My head really hurts....I cut my head in an accident at work, and I have a bad headache.


Tomorrow....the goal is to tackle 4 miles. Wish me luck.

Charlie

3 More Miles and the Treadmill

I was so damn happy with today's run. I did not wheeze. I was not in pain. I felt like I had a really good run. Ice and snow meant the treadmill. I know eventually I will have to re-adjust to the road again. For now, though I am ok with the treadmill.

In the IPod....the latest podcast of Phedippidations, Christmas music and music by The Killers. The Killers are one heck of a band....very up tempo, and good to run to. On the TV monitor...as always...The Food Network. Paula Deen was getting down home with y'all. I love watching the Food Network on the treadmill. Most people assume it is a carrot in front of me. It isn't. It is white noise...pretty white noise that I don't have to concentrate on. I love it!!!!

So another 3 miles in the bag. 35:31, a slight faster than the other day. More importantly I felt I could have run more. That is a great sign.

Charlie

Running With Arthritis in Steps

I have been looking for articles on running with Arthritis, and I have to say I have found next to nothing. What is out there talks about how running could or could not bring on arthritis. Nothing is conclusive. I have found nothing that tells people with my condition how to stay mobile, except to do the exercises I have done in PT.

So I think I will be creating my own plan to make sure I can wrong a long time.

Step 1: Run....but with caution. I think what I am doing now is good. My goal is to run 3 days a week. Personally I hate limiting myself like that, but the doctor feels this is important. I'm not to do long long runs at this point, but that will come in time.

Step 2: Stregnthen Core...my hips are where the problem is, and I have to take care to relieve the stress they have been under. I need strong core and back. This actually lightens my running. I need to be strong up top, to make sure the legs are are not taking as heavy a load. I also need to make my legs stronger.

Step 3: Watch weight...I have not been happy that I am around 210 lbs. So I need to really take care to manage my eating better. I have be more aware of my emotional eating. This has been a damn hard year for me, and I have eaten like it is. I am amazed I am not heavier.

Step 4: Glucosamine...this supplement helps lubricate the joints. I have found it helps me a great deal with moving and my recovery from runs. I find I bounce back a little better.

I am not in pain with the Arthritis. I am stiff in the hips, but I don't think too bad.

So there it is. While I wish I was running more, I am happy at least that I am running. Now I need to set my marathon plan in motion, and that means selecting a marathon.

Charlie

A Good Decent Run - Nothing Too Exciting

Today was a nice 3 mile run on the treadmill. We had freezing rain, so the idea of running in it, just did not appeal to me....as you can imagine. My time was 35:35. I felt good during the run. No IT issues. I wheezed a bit, but it was not bothersome. On the IPod was a Celtic Christmas Music podcast. I am a huge fan of Celtic music, so it was pleasant to run with.

During the run, my thoughts turned to 2009. I don't think I am going to lay out a race plan. I will do races as they come up. All my races will be with a fall marathon in mind. One race I would really like to do again is the Cherry Blossom 10 Mile race. I really enjoyed that one last year. I have a few days before registration opens to decide.

So the good news is I ran 3 miles. I still want to get to 10 for the week. The schedule is not always accommodating. I know that will change as I get serious about marathon training. For now, not too worried. Just happy to be running.

Charlie

Dunkin Donuts! Really???

This is just a short blurb.....



https://www.dunkindonuts.com/aboutus/BreakfastChoices/5K_Race_Helps_You.aspx



So Dunkin Donuts is helping us get fit?



Oh my!



Charlie

Shorter Run

Today was not quite the run I had the other day. I ran 2.05 miles at the gym. I felt like I was breathing hard and I was wheezing. Not really sure what is up with that. I still think I am having some reaction to living with cats. Arrrgh! We are trying to get the cats out of the house, but that is easier said than done.

Other than that the run felt ok. I didn't want to push anything too hard. I had hoped I could do 3 miles, but I will live with what I did today. My left knee felt ok, but a little tender. So I am learning that after a long run, not to push things too hard.

Oy this is all a learning process for me.

Charlie

Did I Miss Out?

As a kid, I was not in gym class. I was always excused for medical reasons. At the time I had no issue with it, but now I feel like I missed out on being athletic as a kid. I listen and read about cross country.

I doubt I would have been any good at it, but in hind sight, I think I would have liked to have done something like that. The closest I came to sports in high school was golf. I tried out for the golf team, and was horrible. I think it's best I was bad, because I would have been in the shadow of my late brother, who had been an outstanding athlete.

I help lots of cross country kids at the store. I know how to talk running with them, but I really have no clue about the cross country world. So any cross country folks out there? What did I miss?

Charlie

4 Miles - At Last

It took me a while, but tonight I ran 4 miles. Not 2.5. Not 3. 4 miles! Damn it felt good. I was on the treadmill at the gym, and made sure I paced myself as not to wear out. I took walking breaks every 7-8 minutes, depending on how I felt. The mantra in my head was, "4 miles, 4 miles."

I felt pretty good, though I was wheezing quite a bit. I attribute that more to my living with cats, which I believe I have a slight allergy. I worked through that, and felt good at the end of the run.

The last time I ran 4 miles was July 11. So I was verrrrrrry happy to have this run under my belt. The time was pokey, but still under a 12 minute mile. Did I mention I feel good about this run? :-)

So now I have some decisions to make soon, like when and where I will marathon next year. I will be meeting with the doctor soon, and I hope we come up with something at that time.

Charlie

Edison Park Turkey Trot

What a glorious, but darned chilly morning it was in the Chicago area. All over the country people are running Turkey Trots, or whatever Thanksgiving themed runs there are. Mark and I participated in the Edison Park Turkey Trot 5K. I ran. Mark walked. I would say between 3,000 - 4,000 were on the streets today.

If you want to PR, don't plan on doing it a race like this, unless you are in front and will stay in front. I felt ok running today. Clearly I did not set the world on fire with my time - 38:02, but all the while I thought about how great it was to be running in a race again. I have missed races.

I did take walk breaks, and I felt ok about doing that. I took more than I normally would, but this may be the way it has to be for me to be running.

The people running were in great spirits. Families ran together. Lots of folks with dogs and baby strollers. Everyone was having a blast.

I felt good as I crossed the finish line. Once I crossed, a woman tapped me on the shoulder. "You sold me a pair of shoes two years ago. I told you I wasn't a runner, and you told me you hadn't run long. Now I am a runner, and I love racing. Thanks so much, " she said. I told her that was great, and it was so wonderful to see her out.

Next I waited for Mark. Mark wants to run at some point, but before you run, you have to walk. I waited about 8 minutes, then I saw him heading to the finish line. I greeted him at the finish line with a hug and a bottle of water. He seemed pleased he completed his first 5K. Next time though....he wants to run.

Overall a great Thanksgiving run!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Charlie

The Long Road Ahead

This time next year I should have completed my 2009 marathon(to be named later). I was thinking about this last night; it seems like that is a long way off, but it will come quickly. What will be the long part will be the training. Am I ready for it?

At this point I'm obviously not ready for a marathon. No one would be ready running 2-3 miles at a time. This is going to be a slow climb back to the kind of running I did. I hope I have it in me.

I clearly have the plan at this point, thanks to Scott. The hard part is getting my butt in gear and doing it. Of course it is tough in the coldest part of the year to say...."Charlie get out there and run." That is what I will have to do, so I can get a base going. Ideally I want to run close to 4 miles a day, three days a week. So I have a bit of work to do.

I have to get in my head not to focus on time. Time will come into play later. Now I have to get the miles in. If this means I go at a slower pace, as I have of late, then so be it. I can pick up speed later.

So while calendar wise, I think time will fly, but in the road of training, that is a long so uphill climb. As always I will detail that road. Typically I name my journeys, "The Road to..." This journey may be nicknamed, "The Road Back." Never fear though, I will figure out a marathon soon.

Charlie

Fall Run Through the Neighborhood

Today I went on a 2.58 mile run through the neighborhood. Very brisk outside. Temperatures were in the 30's. I headed west from East Rogers Park where I live towards West Rogers Park. It was sunny and as I said brisk.

It has been a while since I ran for longer periods in the cold. I forgot how difficult it can be to breathe in this weather. It was a bit of a struggle. I was breathing pretty hard out there. I handled it pretty well though.

For the week I have run 6.80 miles. Not bad for getting back into things. Next week, I am looking at running a bit more. I want to increase it in small increments so I am not over doing it. The general rule is 10% increase. I am running a 5K Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving, so I know the miles will be upped a bit.

All in all, happy to be out running.

Charlie

Slow, but Good

It seems odd not to be writing about all the miles I run. These days a good run is if I can run 3 miles. I am happy that I am running, but now I want to notch it up a bit. I would like to get to running 4 miles a day, three days a week.

Physical wise, I think I can do it, my body is out of practice of that kind of running. So I need to build slowly. I am not good at the building slowly thing. I want to run the longer distances at the pace I used to, and I can't right now. That is a definite source of frustration.

I know this all takes time, and I have to remember that. I would like to try 4 miles tomorrow. We will see what happens.

Charlie

The Economy of Running

Hi Folks....



Sorry it's been a while since I last posted. Lots has gone on. Just to catch up, I was out of town for a few days last week. I was in Portland, OR. That is one nice place I have to say. While I was there I turned 46. 46? Wow......good thing I look 26. :-) I have run some, a few miles here and there, and I feel good for the most part.


Today I want to address the state of our economy and running. Our store is feeling the economic pinch. Folks are buying shoes, but it is tougher to sell that $50-$80 technical shirt. I am wondering how people are coping with their running in this economy. Are runners looking at what races they can and can't afford? Shoe wise are you looking for less expensive shoes?

I know Steve Runner talked about gift ideas for the runner on his latest podcast this week. I will add my .02. Socks are a great gift for a runner. My two favorites are Balega and Feetures. Balega especially is the most darned comfortable sock I have put on my feet. Running books are a good idea. I have landed an early version of "Once a Runner" which will be published next April. Our store got early copies and are selling them. I will give a review once I am done. Gift cards. I know this seems like a cop out, but really get your runner a gift card, and let them wander through a running store. It's like kids in a candy store, and gift cards are like free money to spend.

So there you have it for now. Sorry it has been a while since I posted. I will post more often now.

Charlie

500

Milestones are a time when we reflect, and then take a look ahead. This entry is my 500th on this blog, so it is a milestone for me.

So if I were to take a look back at the previous 499 entires, I would see that I held true to what I wanted to accomplish - writing about my running and my weight loss. Of course it isn't as simple as that. I have shared my hopes, dreams, goals and some of my life with you. I have shared my highs and I have shared my lows.

In looking at my running accomplishments, I hold two races as my ultimate highs to this point. First was the 2006 Sunburst Half Marathon. For those who have not heard of it, the Sunburst races are held in my home town of South Bend, IN. The races start at the College Football Hall of Fame and end on the 50 yard line of Notre Dame Stadium. I grew up spending my Fall Saturdays in that stadium, watching Notre Dame football. Over the years I got to see greats like Joe Montana play , the amazing Ara Parseghian coaching on the sidelines, and thrill to the Notre Dame Victory March.

I remember choking up as I approached the stadium. My sister was inside waiting for me. I called her to let her know I was on my way. People cheered as I ran around towards the tunnel area. As I headed into the tunnel, the Notre Dame Victory March was playing. I came out of that tunnel, and heard my name over the sound system - Charlie Colpaert from Chicago, IL! To this day I STILL get chills thinking of that moment.

My first marathon was the Rock n Roll Phoenix Marathon, January, 2007. As I have told in the past, things were going pretty well until I developed blisters on my heels. My best friend Marshall was there. I remember meeting him at mile 23, and he told me I only had 3 miles to go, and he knew I could do it! I struggled those that 3 miles. I was walking hard at that point. Running was not on the agenda. When I was at mile 26, a Team in Training Coach saw me and said, "Dude, you don't look too good. What do you need." I said, "I need the frickin finish line." He laughed and told me I was close. When I saw the finish line, I was determined to run to the end. I did. Marshall was there to give me a hug as I was very emotional and so incredibly proud of what I had done.

I would say the low point started with the 2007 Chicago Marathon and has gone on all year. While I was able to run some races, especially the Cherry Blossom 10 Mile in Washington, D.C. I am also thrilled that I got to coach a group of women to their first 5K race. It has been a year of injury and adjustment for me.

As I have shared I am in the early stages of degenerative arthritis. I have no true idea what this will mean for my running future. For now though I am being encouraged to run as long as I am able and comfortable. I feel with a good plan for training, I will successfully finish a marathon next year. The marathons I am looking at are the NYC Marathon, the Portland Marathon, and possibly the Chicago Marathon. We will see.

So what is the future? My goal is to run as long as I am physically able to. I love running. I hope to share more of my passion for running, because it brings me so much joy.

I have been told by several people who read this blog that I have inspired them in some way. I am truly honored that anyone would find inspiration in what I do. I also feel very humbled by such comments. I am not always sure what to do with praise like that, except to simply say thank you.

I would like to share for a moment some people who inspire me:

Dean Karnazes - the amazing ultramarathoner. He keeps on going, and bringing new people to running. His determinitation, and wonderful spirit is the essence of a great runner.

Joan Benoit Samuelson - the first Olympic Women's Marathon Champion. At age 50, she set a new record for her age group at this year's Olympic Trials. She is not only a terrific ambassador for running, but a noble spirit.

Oscar Pistorius - the South African runner, who uses prosthetics. While he did not qualify for this year's Olympics, his desire to compete at the highest level inspires me.

Steve "Runner" Walker - the host of "Phedippidations" podcast. For those who have not listened to this podcast, Steve is the ultimate running partner. His rambling diatribes keep so many of us going on our runs. We are not only educated by him on the topic de jour, but we feel we have a real friend running with us. One of my long range goals is to go for a real run with Steve. I would slow him down, but I hope he would enjoy a run with me.

So there it is - #500. Not sure what the next 500 entries will be like, but I will be here sharing all with you.

Peace,
Charlie

The First Eleven Weeks

As promised I am going to share the initial part of the marathon training plan that Scott, my former marathon coach came up with.

Week
2-Mar 3 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 3 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 3 Miles - 12:00 min/mile

9-Mar 3 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 3 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 3 Miles - 11:45 min/mile

16-Mar 4 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 4 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 4 Miles - 12:00 min/mile

23-Mar 4 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 4 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 4 Miles - 11:45 min/mile

30-Mar 4 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 4 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 4 Miles - 11:30 min/mile

6-Apr 5 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 5 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 5 Miles - 12:00 min/mile

13-Apr 5 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 5 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 5 Miles - 11:45 min/mile

20-Apr 5 Miles - 11:30 min/mile 5 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 5 Miles - 11:30 min/mile

27-Apr 6 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 6 Miles - 12:00 min/mile 6 Miles - 12:00 min/mile

4-May 6 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:45 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:45 min/mile

11-May 6 Miles - 11:30 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:00 min/mile 6 Miles - 11:30 min/mile

As you can see it is a slow progression of miles, all done in a time frame that is comfortable for me to run. My average pace is in a 11:00-12:00 min/mile, so Scott has made plans for that. On a couple of the says I am not running, I would be cross training. The next step of the plan would involve a 4th day of running, but that would be it. So at this point there is no traditional long run day. Each day I run it is the same miles, just the pace differs. As per the doctor's orders, there is no speed work or hill training.

I will share this with Dr. Natarajan. I think he will be pleased with this.

Now all I need is the fall marathon, and I am set.

Charlie

Worked Out!!!!!

Today was an ActivTrax day. MAN did I workout. I did a half hour resistance workout designed for the whole body. I'm still a bit sore from all the pulling and stretching I did.

For the cardio, I ran. My idea was to get the three days in, as I am not sure what the weekend will hold for me. Work and weather are looking like it would be tough to get a run in. So I ran a strong 3 miles. To tell you I am tired is an understatement. I AM TIRED!!!

I felt great though. For the week I ran 7.4 miles. This is more than I have run in a couple weeks.

Also....Scott has sent me the first 10 week schedule for my marathon plan. I will share it later. I like what I am seeing. Very doable, and will still be a gradual climb in miles.

So the phrase for this workout is - tired, but I feel GOOD!

Charlie

Finding What I Lost

Today I had a talk with Beth, my physical therapist. She asked me how much I ran last week. I ran darned little as I have of late. Mostly the problem is I feel I have lost how to run. Injuries, the arthritis, no sense of purpose with my running. It all has brought me down. She reminded me she thinks I am doing great. It sure has not felt like it.

After PT I ran at the gym. Mark told me I needed to get my butt running, and do three miles. I did. I have to say it felt great. I needed a really good run to get me going. My time was 35:49. No, not the fastest ever, but the accomplishment was running the 3 miles.

So how do I find what I lost? Is it as simple as setting my next goal? Is it just making sure I get out the door and run?

Next week I will be going to Portland, OR, a running mecca. Perhaps I will find what I lost there? Maybe being in a different running environment will get me going.

Charlie