27 Days and Counting - Marathons Past

Tomorrow is the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. The weather will be sunny and cold - 30s at the start, and 40s as the morning goes on. I envy this weather. My last marathon was the infamous 2007 Chicago Marathon. That day temps hovered in the low 90s, and they stopped the race. One runner died, and many went to the hospital.

My day ended at Mile 16. While I agreed with the decision to end the race, I hated the fact runners were blamed for the lack of water. If I have paid $110 to be in a race, there better be water. Running out, especially when you know what the weather is going to be so hot.

My first marathon was the 2007 Rock and Roll Arizona. That was the coldest marathon in 30 years. Oh my I guess it was my year of extremes. I view that marathon as a triumph. I proved I could go the 26.2 mile distance.

Now I look ahead to Indianapolis. Time for me to prove I can do it again. These two marathons have been on my mind during training. I will take the lessons of both, and know I will succeed in 27 days.

Charlie

28 Days and Counting - Indianapolis

I have a history with the city of Indianapolis, which is why it is a good place for me to run a marathon. When I first went to college, I attended Butler University. I'll admit I hated it. I only went there because it was the school that accepted me when I was denied entry at North Carolina School of the Arts. In hindsight, I suppose I was just angry I couldn't go where I wanted to, and felt lost at the same time. So poor Butler bore the brunt of my distaste.

I would live in Indy a couple of times. I lived there between sojourns to Indiana University, and worked at the Indiana Repertory Theatre. I liked living in Indianapolis, and I guess I would like it again.

It isn't a big city, but it's big for Indiana. It has both an urban and suburban feel to it. There is plenty of night life for those who want it. Sports? The Colts and Pacers both reside there.

Indianapolis is also the state capital of Indiana. As a boy I was a selected to be a page in the State Senate. Pages were selected to work one day. I think I delivered some things to offices, got to see some votes taken, and just was in awe of being there. Yes.....I was and still am a political geek.

The course runs through all of Indianapolis. I will go through downtown, head to the Indiana State Fairgrounds, weave my way through Broad Ripple(the artsy area), pass the governor's mansion, run through Butler University, go by the art museum, and see the various monuments along the way.

Old friends will come out and support me, and I am really looking forward to that.

I think this will be a terrific marathon.

Charlie

29 Days and Counting - Compression

This morning I woke up a bit sore from yesterday's run. Not too surprising. The longer runs batter me a bit. I had trouble sleeping from the discomfort in my legs. Again not too surprising. I am at least walking a bit less like Frankenstein today, and that is a good thing.

During the run yesterday I thought about getting some compression tights for the run. Compression clothing for those not too familiar, is designed to reduce muscle fatigue during the run, and help with recover following long runs. I think this may help me in the marathon.

There are several makers of compression gear out there. Probably the best known is made by Zoot.

http://www.zootsports.com/product_info.php?cPath=2_69&products_id=7223

I would test it out on a run to make sure I would like wearing it in the marathon.

Anyone wear compression? Thoughts?

Charlie

30 Days and Counting - 18 Miles

As of today, it is 30 days until the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon. I celebrated that fact with an 18 mile run this morning. I was nervous last night before I went to bed. Poor Mark saw a bit of an anxiety attack. I was worried after the 16 mile run, so I went into panic over this run. Turns out all was fine.

It was 40ish and breezy as I head along Chicago's lakefront path. Not too many people out. I suppose they are all tapering for the Chicago Marathon this weekend. I started .2 miles north of the 0 Mile sign on the path. Mile 9 is at Buckingham Fountain. That would be my turnaround point.

Mark gave me a kiss, and off I went. The first few miles were nice. As I said not too many folks out, so I felt like I had the path mostly to myself. Highlights: the gaggle of geese near mile marker 3.5, who had no fear of runners. One goose waddled along side me for a short distance. I did speak with him. I figured, if he wants to be my running buddy, might as well chat with him. Another highlight was the sheer beauty of the skyline. Chicago is blessed to have such a nice skyline. I also appreciated the calmness of the water. Nothing like running and a wave crashes, and you get wet.

Mark met me at mile 5.5 with Nuun and more Gu. Today I used Vanilla Bean Gu. I really liked it.

The approach to the Mile 9 marker is tree lined Lake Shore Drive. This part of the drive always reminds me of Paris - tree lined boulevards. I was feeling great at mile 9, so I turned around and headed back.

Around mile 12, I decided my body needed a break. The hips were a bit sore, so I went from the 8/1 interval to 6/1. This helped a great deal.

Again I encountered Mark. I have a Kashi protein bar, and some Nuun, and soon I was off again.

At mile 14 my body was beginning to get more sore. I was able to keep the 6/1 interval, but I knew I would have to maybe do a bit more walking. I was frustrated at this point, that the restrooms which had been open on the first part of the run were now locked. Never fear I eventually found an open restroom.

The last two miles my body was hurting. I think this was the wall. I called Mark and had him talk to me as I walked through the pain. He was very good, telling me he knows how strong I am, and I can do this. That helped, and I began to run. At this point though I was doing more of a 3/2 interval.

Mark met me before the final mile marker, and he encouraged me on to the finish. In the end I ran the 18 miles in 3:57:07. I have to say I was pretty pleased with that time. I am not sure if I can keep that pace for the marathon. My goal is to finish sub-6 hours. I will try though.

All in all I am very happy with the run, and so glad I could put the 16 mile run behind me.

Charlie

Loving Fall

I know I have not updated as I should, but I wanted to write a bit longer about my last two runs.

Fall has come to Chicago, and I could not be happier. My last couple runs have been in ideal Fall conditions. Coincidentally Fall is my favorite time of year, so I am even happier to run outdoors now.

I have journeyed up to Evanston for 6 miles. The leaves have not changed color yet, but they are thinking about it. I can tell. Everyone seems to be in a good mood as I run as well. More people are smiling. I am getting more "Good Mornings". I am also enjoying the runs. Today I even went without a watch.

Today's run was particularly nice. Temps were in the upper 40s and I ran with Mark for the first 1.5 miles. He is training for his long overdue first 5K, so I told him we would run together for a while, then he would head home, and I would continue on my way.

Mark is not used to running in the cooler weather, so he was having some initial breathing issues. I assured him that would get better as the run went on. It did. After we parted ways, I continued north towards Northwestern University.

I went at an easy pace, and loved not having the watch. Along the way I stopped at a Starbucks for a bathroom break, and took a moment to talk to a barista. He was talking about Fall and how people seem to be in a nice mood. I thanked him for the quick cup of water, and headed home.

The trip home was uneventful, but again I was just loving the run.

During marathon training it is easy to think of the runs as all business. Today I was just happy to be reminded of the pure joy running brings.

Charlie

Great Fall Run

Today was perfect fall conditions for a run. I ran from home to the Roscoe Village area. I had a meeting in that area, and thought I would run there. Temps were in the 50s and felt great.

The run went well, so much better than the other day. I felt strong and good. So what was the difference? I'll be honest, I don't know. I may have been better hydrated. The weather could have been better for me. There are any number of reasons. I am just glad to have a good run in today.

Today's total was 5.45 miles.

Charlie

After a Bad Run

A good part of running is mental. A good run can quickly get off track the minute your mind tries to defeat you. Yesterday was not a stellar run as I posted. Now that run is stuck in my head, and I don't know how to get it out. I don't want to be thinking about it on my next run, or even on race day. So how do I get it out of my head?

Elite athletes struggle with this. I know they do, because they talk about the why they didn't win, or why they didn't PR. So I know it stays with them. I am not the kind of person who can NOT think about things. So how do you move on?

Maybe you on only focus on the run ahead? Maybe you turn up the IPod? I don't know. This will be my challenge this week.

Charlie

Some Days You Don't Have It

The goal was 16 miles today. In the end, my body said no. I did fine the first 6 miles. My goal was to go easy. I did. The next 6 miles I began to pick it up. So what happened? While it was a cool morning, it was very humid, and I think I wasn't taking in enough fluids as I ran.

As I approached the 11th mile, I called Mark, and I told him I needed him to begin to come towards me, as I was wasn't feeling well. I felt like my thighs were about to cramp. I was also feeling a bit dizzy. Mark met me and asked if I needed him to push back into running. I told him I just didn't have it today. We walked back after 11.75 miles.

Better to have a day like this today then on race day. No one likes to stop a run, but there are times the body has the final word. This has happened in past marathon trainings. All I can do now is work on what went wrong today, and in two weeks tackled 18 miles.

Charlie

Post Race Drink

After my 6 mile run today, I think I deserve my post run drink. My favorite is Chocolate Soy Milk! God I love this stuff after a hard run, and today's run was hard. I ran faster than normal. I wanted to work ahead of marathon pace, and I did. I had a sub 12:00 pace today.

So now I am home sipping that wonderful, and healthy drink - Chocolate Soy Milk. Don't know what it is I like about it, but I love this this stuff.

What do you all drink after a hard run?

Charlie

Longer Run Week

Last week with the business trip there was little running, which may or may not be good for me at this point. This week is a longer run week. I already have 3 miles in the bank. I am looking to do 6-7 miles today. The long run this week is 16 miles. These longer runs are now going to be the true test of how I think I can do on marathon day.

November 7 is creeping up on me. I see I have 16, 18 and 20 mile runs ahead of me. Oy! I definitely appreciate the cutback weeks. I have noticed on the longer runs it takes me a couple days to really recover from it. Overall though I think I am doing well physically.

I am really thinking about each run and the conditions I am running in. If it is a humid day, I know I can't sustain the 8/1 interval, so I quickly move to the 6/1 interval, so I can walk a bit more frequently. I need to work on being speedier with the walking. I think that will be a key thing for me marathon day. I can't dilly dally with the walking portions of the race.

I am pleased with the training thus far. Could I be in stronger shape? Yes, but I think I am doing pretty well.

Charlie

Who I Won't Help

There is a customer who comes into our store now and then, and when she does, my mood changes...and not for the better. She is my least favorite customer - and I am being kind. Whenever she walks into the store, I know certain things will happen. First, whoever greets her will get a glare, and some snide comment. Second, if anyone asks if she needs help, her eye bug out, and she in a most mean manner says something like, "If I want something you'll know." Third, once she needs assistance, she does whatever she can to be rude.

The only time I helped her, was my last. She came into the store saying she needed a shoe for an upcoming marathon, and had been fit at another store. I asked her the usual questions. Did she have any problems with her shoes? Her eyes bugged out and she said, "They did now, or I wouldn't be here." I tried to determine what was going on, and everytime I would ask a question, she would make a remark like, "Am I speaking English?" I tried to explain to her that I was just asking some basic questions, since she had not been fit by us before.

She told me to bring out some shoes. I did based on only what she told me. She would not let me watch her run. Everytime she tried on a shoe, she was rude and condescending with me. One comment was, "Are we even in the same store?"

For whatever reason she decided I was not the one to help her. She put her hand up to my face, in a stop motion, and said, "Can we get someone here to actually help me." I got a co-worker to take over, and he managed to get her into a shoe that I recommended, and he made the point of saying this was what I recommended, and she again made rude comments.

Our owner has told us in certain cases, we can fire a customer. I have come very close each time she has been in. Yesterday she brow beated an associate over socks. She wanted to try on a sock. The poor associate asked her size. Eyes bugging out, the woman said, "The size I am wearing of course."

We all think she has some issues, but we all don't believe we should be on the receiving end of those issues. Arrrgh!

Charlie

Boston Trip Finale

The last couple of days in Boston have been busy ones. Many thanks to the team from New Balance who made this meeting a big success. This was my first meeting, and I hope it is not the last. During my time here: I have gotten to tour one of New Balance's factories, met with the shoe and apparel design teams, seen how they test shoes, and learned a great deal about the company. I also got to meet some wonderful folks on this trip.

Two running legends were in attendance at the meeting: Dick Beardsley and Bob Kennedy. I have met Dick before. This time he always had folks around him, so I did not add to the crush of folks who wanted to say hi. Bob Kennedy is an IU graduate, and still holds the American record in the 3000 meters. Bob co-owns The Running Company in Indianapolis. He is also the honory chair of the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon in November.

I spoke with him about the race, and he told me how the race is gaining steam in its second year. People are coming out to run, and in time, people will come out in packs to watch the race.

So where is New Balance product wise? NB is very excited about the 760, which will replace the 769, and the 1064 which will replace the 1063. The good news for those who might not have liked the 769, NB is widening the toebox. They heard the complaints about the narrower toe area, and are making it more curvy. The 1064 will not be too different from the 1063, but we did get a sneak peek at the 1065, and there will be some important changes coming up. The N Lock will be going away. This is not bad news, as the "N" has been known to tear off the shoes. The N will still be there, but in decoration only. Also say good bye to the Knotty Laces. NB is going back to a more conventional lace.

Other shoes they are excited about? The 859, a less cushioned neutral shoe, which they think will do very well. If it is anything like the 858 I am currently wearing, they may have a hit. Shoes in general will be made with softer uppers. I felt the fabric, and really liked it.

I was finally able to run, after leaving the meeting to go get a pair of running shorts. Can you believe I packed everything BUT the running shorts? So this morning I headed on a 3.5 mile run. I ran along the Charles River at the Esplenade. So pretty that early in the morning. I headed to Boylston St. where the finish line of the Boston Marathon is still there. I made a point of crossing the finish line. Does this mean I finished Boston? Hehehe..... From there I headed to Fenway Park, and ran around the park. Time was not important, but I did get 3.5 miles in.

Last night NB took us to a Red Sox game. The Sox won in the 9th inning. Of course I was back at the hotel by then. It was a 4+ hour game, and I needed my sleep for my run this morning.

I have loved Boston. I will come back, and see more of the city.

Charlie

New Balance Meetings

I am in Boston this week attending the New Balance Elite Dealers Meetings. New Balance has invited their top running specialty accounts to come to Boston and meet. Yesterday we spent the day at one of the company's factories. It was an incredible tour.

New Balance is known for making shoes in the U.S.A. For full disclosure, New Balance makes 1/4 of their shoes in the U.S.A.. The rest are made in China. At this factory, they not only make shoes from beginning to end, they also assemble parts of shoes. Those parts are made in China.

The New Balance team is dedicated to making great shoes. We watched the various teams of workers stich, glue, heat, and package shoes. They have to produce 600 pair of shoes a day. They don't want to over produce, and they don't want to fall behind. The workers are on their feet all day long, but every few minutes a bell goes off, and they have to exercise - mostly their hands.

The teams are encouraged to not only raise issues like production problems, they also develop the strategies to solve those problems. We saw signs now and then explaining a problem, and what solutions they are using to solve them. This is part of the philosophy they got from Toyota. During the tour we were told they have fully embraced the business practices of Toyota. Hung on one of the walls was a list of Toyota practices they are dedicated to following.

In the afternoon were got to talk to shoe developers who explained they design process to us. We also got to go to the "smash lab" where they test, not only New Balance shoes, but see how they compare with competitors shoes. These shoes get tested my friends.

All in all it was a great day at the factory. I will share pictures later. Today we are in meetings with various folks form the company.

Charlie

Off to Boston

Folks this week I will be in Boston. I have been asked to represent my store at the New Balance Elite Dealers Meeting. This is really going to be a great opportunity. I will tour NB HQ and their manufacturing plant. I will meet with shoe and clothing designers. I will talk to company officials, as well as meeting other folks from running store around the country. So it will be a very full 3 days.

Never been to Boston, but have always wanted to go, so this will be fun for me. I am also told we will go to a Red Sox game. Cool!

Not sure if I will take the computer with me, but I will be running on the trip, and will at least let you know how everything has gone when I get back.

Charlie

14 Tough Miles - Really? A Marathon?

Today was a tough 14 mile run. I was fine for most of it. The last few miles though were tough. What made it tougher was a slip and almost fall a mile from home.

I ran from home to the lakefront path. Yes, I joined the thousands of folks out there training for Chicago today. It was a sunny and a bit foggy, but still a pleasant along Lake Michigan. I headed off and felt good as I ran along the path. I felt pretty strong and I weaved through various runners and cyclers.

I was happy to see folks I know out there. Makes it pleasant when you can wave and say hi to someone you know.

I met Mark after the halfway point. He had my replacement bottle of NUUN. I needed it as the humidity was making my a bit parched.

On the return trip I started to feel sluggish about the 9 mile mark. I slowed down, but did my best to keep the 8/1 interval. I went to a 6/1 interval at mile 11.

During this sluggish period, I did what many runners training for a marathon ask themselves....can I really do this marathon thing? I sure felt like it would have taken me forever. The last mile did take forever. I entered the campus of Loyola University Chicago, and as I was stepping up on the sidewalk, I tripped. I kind of tweaked the right hip. I almost fell, so my hip did some weird thing. I decided not to push things too hard. So I began to walk a little and run a little. I would run a block, walk a block. So my time is not sterling.

I am glad to have this run out of the way. I worry about the 16, 18, and 20 mile runs coming up though.

Charlie

Sometimes Feet Hurt

I haven't talked a lot about working at a running store, but I wanted to share some stories, because I think people can learn from these.

Now and then we get a customer who comes in wanting to return their shoes. While we do have a good return policy, we always want to assess the situation before we take a pair of shoes back. A common reason people bring the shoes back is, "My feet hurt while I ran in them." While I am sure there are shoes that make people's feet hurt when they run, the most common story is the person took their shoes on a 10-15 mile run, having never run that distance before, and now their feet hurt. I gently advise them that running a long distance like that will make feet hurt, it may not be the shoes. I suggest going for a shorter run to see how it feels and build to the longer run. I will note that if the customer insists, I am happy to work with them on an exchange or return. They should know though, that sometimes feet hurt.

Color. Yes I know no one likes the color of running shoes. Everyday I work with people who tell me they hate the color of the shoe they have on their feet, and do we have it in another color. While companies make models in various colors, typically a running store only gets one of those colors for a period of time. One woman told me the green shoes made her look ghetto, and that what would people say? I told her that at mile 12 of her half marathon she wasn't going to care what color the shoes were. She decided on the "pretty" shoe. Folks, if you get the color you like - bonus, but it is about the fit and comfort of your feet. After all those feet of yours take a lot of pounding, be good to them. Also your feet don't care about the color either.

The color issue is not limited to women. Men tell me they want a manly colored shoe. Good luck with that.

Size. When you are measured for a running shoe, it always seems odd to a customer that we fit a 1/2 to full size beyond the measurements. We do that because as you run, and the longer you are on your feet, the feet swell, and you want to allow room for that swelling. If you are a size 9, and I put you in a size 9, you run the risk of blisters, and blackened toenails - no one wants those. One woman got so mad at me. She told me she was a size 6, and her feet hurt a great deal. She measured a size 8. I advised she wear an 8 1/2. She told me I was lying. I told her I had no reason to lie. She insisted I put her in a 6. She made horrible faces as she tried on the size 6 shoes. Seeing he obvious pain, I again advised the 8 1/2. She tried it on, and felt comfort. Still she got mad at me and told me she would never buy size 8 1/2 shoes.

When you put on that 1/2 size up, I know it will feel like the Grand Canyon, but I promise you it is the right amount of room.

One final note. I know everyone has their favorite shoes, but just because Bob loves the New Balance 993, and Sue loves the Asics Kayano, it doesn't mean those are the shoes for you. Let the trained sales associate determine which shoes work for you! It doesn't mean those are bad shoes if they bring out something else, it is just that they have selected shoes based on YOUR needs, foot shape and size.

Charlie

Humid Run

Today I started out on a 6.41 mile run. Temps were in the low 70s, but the humidity was high. About 2.5 miles to go I ditched the 8/1 interval, and went 6/1. That was somewhat easier for me. Still as the run went on, I had to fight fatigue due to the humidity.

Today I took NUUN, which is an electrolyte product I love. If you haven't tried it, do so. It comes in tablet form, which you put in your water bottle. I like the taste. There is lightness to it, that I like. Gatorade seems heavy and thick sometimes. So this is a great alternative.

I pushed back the negative thoughts which creep in when you are physically struggling. I kept telling myself if this were the marathon, I would never forgive myself for walking the rest of the way. So I kept up the running.

Was very glad to have this run under my belt.

Charlie

60 Days to Go

As of this writing, it is 60 days until Marathon Day. Here is a look at what I have done, and some thoughts:

Total Miles Run - 444.7 Miles

Average Pace - 12:16/mile

The good - My running is going well. My body has not hurt too much, and the issues I had last year(ITBand, Achillies, etc.) are not present. The actual running has felt good. It has only felt labored a few times. Usually it all feels easy.

The not-so-good - Eating. I beat myself up yesterday. I have not eaten as well on this training. I have fallen into the bad habit of eating what I like, and as much as I like. While I am not ballooning, if I were not running this would be a cry for help. I think it is anyway. I am re-examining what I put in my mouth, and cutting it down.

I also have not been too good on the cross training. I have told Mark the goal is two times a week at the gym. He has promised to help me.

Here is where I need you all to help. I want you folks to question me. Ask me about what I had to eat that day, and really pin me down on my going to the gym. I won't be offended. What I need is a kick in the butt.

I want this marathon to be a success. So as my running improves, I am pledging to improve on all the other aspects of training. Hang in there with me....only 60 days to go.

Charlie

Sharing

Before I get to the meat and potatoes of my entry, I wanted to let you know today's run was a bit sluggish, but the 6 miles are in the bank, and I feelt good that it got done.

My parents are people who don't like to share personal matters. To them it is personal. I have often felt I am the black sheep of the family, because I share things with people. I have no doubt my dad would not understand why anyone would blog. The fact that anyone would blog about personal matters would only confuse him even more. My mother was appalled when people would talk about personal matters. It made her uncomfortable if I shared private things with her. This is the way I was raised. For better or for worse, I have lived my life more openly. I came out at 20. I did that because I took to heart that the truth would set me free. It did. I have never regretted being open about my being gay. I have shared the traumas I have endured in life, as well as the joys. I have open and deep with people, and it has bitten me in the butt on occasion, but I would not change who I am. I only know one way to live. This does not mean I share everything....I don't. I agree that some things are private. I think though you have to share things with someone.

Tonight I learned my dad needs to have a pacemaker. He did not want me to know. When my mom had Liver Cancer, they did the same thing - kept us in the dark as long as possible. My mom used to say it was because she didn't want to bother me with it. I am pretty sure my dad is thinking the same thing. I am sure it may be a generational thing, but it annoys the HELL out of me.

Even good news, my dad is not eager to share or hear. When I first talked to him about running, his only response was, "I wished you had done this when I wanted you to lose weight." He has never really asked me anything about my running, or my races. He has asked me what is the point of being in the race if you aren't going to win? I just sigh, and let him know that I do win....just not the way he would think.

So much to my dad's chagrin, I will continue to share with others.

Charlie

Barefoot Running

Within the last couple years there has been a growing movement in the running community to go barefoot while running. Shoe companies such as Newton and Nike have developed shoes to allow for a more barefoot feel. Christopher McDougal in his brilliant book, "Born to Run" advocates the theories that shoes have done more to damage us than running barefoot as we did before the advent of the running shoe.

I have not spoken much on this much, but I want to spend some time to deal with it today. Here is my initial thoughts....I think barefoot running can work brilliantly for some people. I think it allows for greater flexibility in runing. It also makes for stronger leg muscles.

Where do I see the flaws? There are people out there who need shoes. I am one of them. My limited range of motion is not helped by going barefoot. If you were to watch me walk without shoes, you would wonder how I even get up in the morning. Shoes give me support and a platform to move.

The flaws I see in the arguments I have read is that the shoe companies are pushing too much cushioning and control. All shoe companies make shoes which span the spectrum from basic cushioning to motion control.

Cushioning has come under attack in these arguments. When I fit someone for shoes, I bring out varying levels of cushioning, because I have no idea what the customer likes. I divide people into two camps: those who want to run on pillows and those that want to feel the ground. I am a ground person. Too much cushion makes me feel unstable, and actually bothers my feet and ankles. For others though, they love it.

Stability is also under attack by these critics. There is a misconception out there about what stability does in a shoe. Stability is not meant to correct overpronation. It is meant to reduce it to make running a bit easier. Runners have it in their heads that overpronation is bad. It isn't. It is the natural movement of our feet. For some people extreme overpronation can bring about various issues. Only in those cases should a motion control shoe be considered. 75%-80% of us overpronate. When your gait is being analyzed the fitter should be looking for the range of overpronation, and suggesting appropriate levels of stability.

I also don't get into some of the conspiracy theories that shoe companies allegedly have. Sorry folks, these people can't even make a consistant shoe, let alnoe organize themselves to keep people from running barefoot. Don't mistake marketing for conspiracy.

My suggestion is if you want to try barefoot running - go for it. Don't throw the shoes away comepletely. McDougal in a recent Runners Round Table discussion talked about how once you learn how to run barefoot - as in the correct form, then add a shoe which will enhance it, but not change the form.

Now it is easy to say, "Charlie you work in the shoe business, you are just part of the problem." Yes, I work in a running store, but I make it clear to all my customers that in the end the shoe they go home with is the one which should feel like a natural extension of themselves. It should be work with them, and not against them. If that is a "Five Fingers" shoes, or a Brooks Beast, then so be it.

There need not be a war over this, as I have read in some forums. There is room at the table for all runners and running types.

Charlie

Nice and Easy - 6 Miles

Today was what I call a recovery run. After the 12 miler the other day, I didn't want to go out too hard or fast. I went at a nice easy pace today on my 6 mile run. I headed from home, and made my way to Andersonville via the Edgewater area. It was sunny and temps were in the 60's. Everyone in Chicago is complaining about the cool summer....well not me. I have loved the running weather this summer. Sure beats 90 and icky!

I had lots to think about on this run. I thought about work, and all that is going on there. I thought about how cool it will be to finally run this marathon in November. I thought about what to have for dinner tonight. So there was plenty to think about on this run.

I didn't think too hard. I was busy enjoying the run, which is as it should be.

The pace was 12:23/mile. That is a touch slower than I have been running overall, but well within my goal of finishing under 6 hours at the marathon.

Charlie

I Am a Runner - Really

Not a big secret that I love running. I love this sport like I love no other, and I also love the community of runners. What I don't like are the running snobs, as I call them. These are the folks who think anything less than what they believe about running just is not running.

I run/walk, yet I am a runner. To the snobs though, I am not a true runner. I have heard conversations where running snobs talk about run/walk as not running. If you aren't running an entire race, then you aren't running. BULL!

No, I didn't run cross country or track in school. No, I have not qualified for Boston. No, I can't recite the running times of the top five fastest milers.

Instead I have a love of running. I get pure joy when I head out for a run. My feeling about the walking part is that I am moving forward, giving some muscles a rest. I have not stopped running because I am walking, nor am I going backwards.

So what brought this rant on? Over the last week or so I have listened to conversations by customers in the store who are running snobs. I guess I got tired of their hooey, and thought I would get on my soapbox a bit.

I will never run a 2:06 marathon, but my time out on the course will be just as important, and I will work about 4 hours harder to achieve my goal. So take that running snobs!

Charlie

12 Miles into the Past

Today's 12 mile run had me go from home to Willmette, back through Evanston, and then home. Overall I felt good on this run. I managed to maintain the 8/1 interval. It helped temps were in the mid 50s this morning. It felt darned good out there.

The run had me go through parts of Evanston I had not really seen. Lovely neighborhoods, and people all happy this morning. I got a lot of "Good Morning" comments out there.

Along the run I went past one of the most important places in my life - The Cradle. The Cradle is the adoption agency where my sister and I came from. In fact, my adoption anniversary will be coming up in the next week or so. My sister's was last week. The Cradle is a special place, and as I ran by it, I thought two things: first it is a beautiful place; second, how lucky the babies who live there, that will get placed in good homes.

http://www.cradle.org/

Every now and then I am asked if I am interested in looking for my birth mother. The only time I have considered it was when I turned 40. That was a fleeting thought though. There was a reason I was put up for adoption. I can only assume it was a difficult decision my birth mother has lived with, but why re-open it all my looking for her? I don't feel I am missing anything - life is good.

So after my run into time, I focused on my actual running. I felt no pain. The running was a bit labored and choppy though. I will work on running a bit smoother this week.

Charlie

6 Miles

Rain outside had me indoors for my 6 mile run. It actually was a good run at the gym. I ran hard, and went faster than my normal pace. I wanted to work on speed this time, without going nuts on speed. My pace was 11:54/mile. As you may know, my marathon is going to be slower than that, but I think it helps me to have some speed for times when I will need to make up some time during the race.

I really did not get tired, and my body felt good. All in all this was a successful run for me. It gives me confidence as I head to the long run later this week.

I have a 12 mile run a head of me. I haven't run that distance since the half marathon, but I am feeling very confident that I will be fine out there. No worries.

This weekend is the Chicago Triathlon. I have to make a route which will keep me far from that crowd.

Charlie

Not an Angry Run

I was in a really bad mood at work today. By bad mood....I mean BAD MOOD. I think there was a convergence of working 8 days in a row, and various issues at work which really pissed me off.

After work I decided to head to the gym for a run. I felt it would be an angry run, where I was just mad the whole time. In the end it wasn't. I ran a good 4 miles around an 11:53/mile pace. So it was a quick pace.

Did I think about the day? No...I actually thought about having the next two days off, and spending some quality time with Mark. I have hardly seen him this week, and it has made for an edgy house.

I am also glad to have this cold thingy over with. I hate being sick, and running while hacking up lungs would not have been good.

So a 4 mile run is in the books. I have a 6 mile and a 12 mile this week.

Charlie

Good News - New Balance

Yesterday I was asked to represent my store in Boston at a meeting of top running stores at New Balance HQ. New Balance invited "elite" stores around the country (a.k.a. top running store accounts) to come to their facilities and see how they research, design, and put together shoes and clothing.

Very excited about this for two reasons: first, I have never been to Boston, and have always wanted to visit; second, I think this will be a great learning opportunity for me. I will get to see what is coming down the pipeline, meet with designers, talking with marketing folks, and still get to see some of Boston. I am told we will get to see a Boston Red Sox game. The minute I heard about that, I thought of Steve Runner, and his love of the Red Sox.

The trip will be in a few weeks, and I just can't wait.

On the running front, a cold has really sidetracked me this week. I'm ok with this, since it was a cutback week. I am going to focus on getting better, and ramping for next week.

Charlie

Fast Run

This morning I toed the line ready to run. Once I started I was unstoppable. I ran the 100m in 9.58 seconds. Wait a minute....I'm not Usain Bolt.

Still my run was a bit faster than normal. I will be honest I have felt crappy all day - headache, sinus problems, and all I wanted to do was get a run in and be done with it. I ran 3 miles on the treadmill in 35:55. That is speedy for me these days. I thought about going one more mile, but to be honest, I just felt like I wanted off and be done with the run.

This week is a cut back week. I have two 6 mile runs ahead of me, so those will be my main focus this week. Next week the miles move up again.

Other than feeling like I am fighting some sickness, I am good. My body is feeling good. My hips feel fine. I plan on making an appointment soon with Dr. Natarajan so he can tell me what he thinks.

Taking it easy is the order of the day, so I am going to rest, and be fresh and ready for the next run.

Charlie

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

With the Air and Water Show on the lakefront, I decided to try another route this morning for my 10 mile run. I created a route from my home to Wrigley Field(home of the Chicago Cubs) and back. Not crowded at all on the route....until I got to the ball park. There is a game today, so folks were already out.

Today's run went pretty well. I felt good during the entire run. No music, but I was humming a tune from the musical "Nine." Odd choice, but that what was in my head.

Parts of the run was angry running. I don't like angry running, but I think in the end it helps me work some aggression out. What is angry running? That is when your thoughts are about things which are really pissing you off. You know, like the horrible roommate who eats your food, or the customer at work who treated you like dirt, or even the rude comment someone made in passing that has stuck with you. Those thoughts get in your head, and you just have to work through them somehow. I typically run a little harder and faster when I am angry running, which is not always a good thing. It wears you out.

I won't share what my angry running was, but I will say I felt a bit better after the run. So I suppose it works.

Next week's long run is 6 miles - a cutback week.

Charlie

Run for Sabrina

Today I ran a great 6 miles. I headed towards Andersonville, and did 3 miles there and 3 miles back. The weather was good and sunny, and it was just fine for a 6 mile run.

My thoughts though during the run turned to my youngest niece, Sabrina. She is one of the sweetest children you will ever meet. She has Downs Syndrome, and has a number of issues going against her. One of those issues is her eye sight.

Tomorrow she is having eye surgery to attempt to correct and strengthen her eye muscles. If successful, she will see so much better and clearly. So as I ran, I prayed that all would go well the the surgery. I thought about how she really doesn't understand what is going on, and how would you explain it to her?

My sister took her to Miami today for the surgery. I wish I could be there. I hate for my sister to go through this alone. I also hope Sabrina won't be scared.

As I ran I thought about how much joy she brings, and how loving she is. I just want everything to be ok for my little pumpkin.

Charlie

I Am a Geek

Yes...I admit to all of you. I am a running geek. Of course you already knew that. I run. I work in a running store. I write a running blog. To that end, I got that thrill up and down my spine the other day. I ordered my next pair of shoes.

There is something very cool about getting your running shoes. I won't be wearing them right away, but I will be needing them soon. So a shiny pair of Brooks Dyads in a size 8.5 4E are on their way. When they come, it will be like Christmas. I will tear open that package, and there will be my new shoes looking all nice and new.

I have also ordered some all terrain shoes from New Balance. I like to have a rugged shoe or boot for the fall/winter. So again, I will be all geeky when they come.

Anyone else like this?

Charlie

Sometimes You Are the Inspiration

I have commented many times who inspires me. Running wise I look to people like Dean Karnazes, Joan Benoit Samuelson, or Dick Beardsley. In the non-running world, I am in awe of Nelson Mandela. The common thread in all these people is that they have all been put to the test, and have been a success. We don't think of ourselves as inspiring others, at least I don't normally think I inspire people. Today I was reminded that sometimes YOU are the inspiration.

A woman and her partner were in our store today. I recognized them, as customers I had helped, but it wasn't until the woman in question spoke to me. "You probably don't remember me," she began. About two years ago she and her partner were in the store to get shoes. Her partner was training for a marathon, and this woman was running, but was worried about being slow.

Over the course of my interaction with her, I shared my story of running. I talked about being obese, and how running saved my life. I told her, while I am slow, the goal is to run, and when racing to finish. What she does not remember is that I did see her a few months later at a half marathon. I remember her waving at me.

Today she told me that it was our initial conversation which inspired her to run and enter races. She has run some half marathons since we met. Now she is training for her first marathon - Chicago. She told me she still was not very fast, but she remembered I told her fast did not matter, as long as she was running.

I smiled and thanked her for her kind words. She told me it meant a lot to her that I shared my story, and she was truly inspired by me to run. I admit to being overwhelmed by such comments. I don't think we ever realize the impact we make in other people's lives. Certainly I don't. We think we just live our lives, and that is that. It isn't just that though. We do make a difference, and I am so pleased I was able to make a difference in this woman's life.

Charlie

41 Years of Missing David

I was 5 going on 6 when it happened. 41 years ago today my brother died tragically - he was struck by lightening. My brother David was 16 when he died. My brother was my parents only biological child. They were so proud of him. He was a straight A student. He excelled in basketball, golf, and any other sporting endeavor he put his mind to. He was a model older brother to me.

My memories of him are few, but those I have I cherish. David always had time for me. I remember him playing with me in the yard, or giving me horsey back rides around the house. In return, I was thrilled when Mom would take me to his basketball games. He was a great player, and I know college scouts had an eye on him.

His death left a huge void in our family. I don't think my parents ever recovered. There was so much hurt left behind by his death. Growing up I wanted to make my parents proud of me, like they had been of David, but it just never seemed like I achieved it. David was sports. I was the arts. He was straight A's. I was a B student. I was in the shadow of a ghost, and that was hard for me. No matter what I did, I could not quite do it or so it appeared. It took me a long time, and a ton of therapy later to realize, that I should have just focused on being me. Of course having hindsight, and no ability to time travel, I can't go back and tell that little boy, that it was ok he wasn't like his brother.

My efforts at golf were futile, at least as far as my dad was concerned. I enjoyed golf and still do, but I did not do well at it. So my shared experience with my dad involved watching sports. We have gone to Notre Dame football games, hockey games, golf matches and the Olympics. I tried to fish with my dad, but that just bored me to death. Still no matter what I tried it was not the same for him.

For my own sanity I had to find my own niche in the world. Running, as I am sure you can guess has helped in that respect. While my dad does not understand the point of entering a race you know you won't win, I believe if David were alive, he would be thrilled with my running, and who knows, maybe run a race or two with me.

My sister is a big fan of my running...or so she tells me(hehehe). She was with my at my first half marathon. She got me my first running watch. She has made sure I get Runner's World each year. Now if I could just get her to run.

There have been times David has been on my mind during runs. I like to think that he is looking down on me as I could along, and every now and then gets me moving when I need to move.

I love him and miss him still all these years later.

Charlie

3 Miles and 3 Months

Today marks 3 months until the marathon in Indianapolis. The celebrate this occasion I ran 3 miles today. It was a rainy icky mess outside, so I headed to the gym to run on the treadmill. I was supposed to do a couple more miles, but I will confess I was tired after a long day at work.

I'm not too upset about not getting the miles I was "supposed" to this week. The half marathon took more out of my than I thought. Now that I am a bit rested, I can plunge into next week's running feeling better.

I am also looking for one more half marathon to do before the marathon. Not sure which one.

Still I am feeling good. I am recovered from the race. I think I just needed extra rest.

Charlie

Slow Day - 4 Miles

Yesterday the goal was 6 miles. I ran 4, and I was fine with that. My ankles were still stiff from the half marathon. I made sure I was not pushing anything too hard, which is why I decided at the 2 mile mark to turn around and head back.

I ran the route from work towards the Chicago River, which is a nice run through the Ravenswood and then on to the park along the river. Plenty of folks were out enjoying the day. One kid in a stroller yelled, " Go!" I thought that was cute.

Not sure if I will get all the runs in this week. My body is telling me to rest, and I think I will listen to it. I will try to get one more run in this week though.

Charlie

Rock n Roll Chicago - This is One Heavy Medal

The inaugural Rock n Roll Chicago Half Marathon is in the books. Yesterday was sunny and in the 60s at the start. As I expected it warmed up pretty quickly. Almost 15,000 started the race. This was a wave start. So were all entered into corrals based on our expected finish times. I was pretty far back in the pack. This was my first wave start. It felt a bit annoying to start and stop thing all the way up to the start line. I was very glad to get going.

The course started in Grant Park and then headed to the Loop. Runners zig zagged through the streets of Chicago. There were folks out cheering us on, and it was nice to see people with signs for their loved ones. I liked this part of the course. Too bad more of it was not in the city.

After Mile 4, the course meanders to the Lakefront Path. I have run on this portion of the path before at the Soldier Field 10 Mile Race, so I knew what to expect. The problem with the path is I think it tends to get too narrow for the number of folks out there.

I felt great the first 5-6 miles. I would say my only complaint at this point was my 5 minute wait for the port-a-potties. It ticked me off that the woman ahead of me "saved" spots in line for her girlfriends. When they stepped ahead of me, I uttered an obscenity. They knew I was not happy about this. After this episode I knew I could make up that time. I am not an elite athlete, so I don't have the speed to make up time like that. So off I went.

Mile 7 was the start of the rolling nature of the course. I felt I used a lot of energy with these "hills." This was also the point of the course where most people were walking a great deal of the time. The path is too narrow for all the people who want to walk with their friends. Some of us are still running out there. I wished these folks would have walked to one side of the path.

By Mile 9 I decided with the heat it was time to go from the 8/1 interval to 6/1 interval. In hindsight I think I should have started this sooner. I was a bit tired after the hills, that and the heat I was feeling more tired. I looked at my timer, a PR was no longer in my sights, but I was figuring I would be happy with 2:52, so off I went.

Mile 11 I was very tired. I don't think I took enough fluids, and I was feeling dehydrated. One volunteer at the aid station resisted giving me a second cup of water. I glared and took it anyway. C'mon two cups of water that aren't even 1/4 full? There was plenty for everyone.

Oh....odd note that I forgot...Mile 6 was what I call the mine field. They had wet sponges for us. Running in Sponge Alley was tricky. All the sponges thrown down made it hard to step. Organizers might want to rethink that move.

Mile 12 I knew the end was in sight, and I did my best to power ahead. By now I was slow. I was taking longer walking breaks. I was thirsty. I pushed on.

When I saw the finish line I stepped it up. My time was in my sights and off I went. I finished the race in 2:52:16. My pace was a touch over 13:00/mile. That is slower than I have been, but I will take it for that day.

The medal they gave could knock out an elephant. It is one heavy medal, but I felt I really earned it. Mark was waiting for me at the end, and I was so glad to see him. I had seen him at Mile 4 before we headed to the lake. At this point I was feeling dizzy, so he made sure I had something to drink and got me to sit down for a while. He looked so happy to see me, and I was so happy to show him my HUGE medal!

Overall I am pleased with the race. I am thinking about what I learned and what I need to do now for the marathon and will go over that soon in another post.

Congrats to Kara Goucher who won the race! I think she is an amazing athlete, and can become our greatest long distance runner.

Charlie

The Plan for the Half

Today was expo day. I went to the Rock n Roll Chicago expo, and got my bib, shirt, and finally, goodies in the goody bag. My best moment was meeting marathoner Ryan Hall. Mark tells me the look on my face was one of pure happiness. I will eventually get the pictures that was taken and share.

Hall and I talked briefly about his Boston Marathon and his Olympic Trials experiences. He is a genuinely nice guy. He seemed a bit awkward, but I bet public outings for sponsors are not his thing. Still he was very nice.

So I have looked over all the info for tomorrow's race. The forecast is for 61 degrees at 6 a.m. The race starts at 6:30. So it will be "cool" at the start. I believe it will warm up quickly. I have been planning on that. I have purposely run my runs later in the morning when there is more heat, so I would be ready for it. Hope that plan works.

Yes...I would like to PR tomorrow. My best is 2:45:04. I would like to knock a little off that. I believe I can as long as I stick to my pace. If I am faster than 11:30 at the first mile, I have gone out too fast, and there could be trouble later. Must be mindful to slow that down.

I feel my running has gone well, and while this is not my final goal, that will be in Indianapolis in November, this will go far to show where I am at this point.

Charlie

The Warm Up and Then I Rock

Sunday is the Rock n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon. Today I ran 6 miles as a warm up to Sunday's race. I felt good out there, even though it was very warm. I ran the first 3 miles in 36:40. My last three was done in 36:32. Yup...negative splits.

The course for the race is a bit odd. It starts in Grant Park, heads into the Loop, then down along the southern part of the Lakrfront Path. Before the finish back in Grant Park, it takes a sligh detour north beyond the finish line then back. Not sure how that will all play out.

My goal is of course to finish. I would like to stay under 3 hours. My PR is 2:45:04, I would like to break that. If I ran like today I could do it.

The weather is supposed to be a bit humid and warm. The "good news" is the race starts at 6:30 a.m.. Yikes....I have to up early. Actually looking forward to this race, even though it is an August race...hot!

Next post will be the race report.

Charlie

What This Training has Meant

I have been training for a marathon since February. In a few paragraphs I am going to try to sum up what this has meant to me. Regular readers of this blog know that last year I was very frustrated at my lack of running. IT Band issues, and my arthritis diagnosis really got me down. Not only was there frustration, but I lost a sense of normalcy to my life.

I have said that running makes me feel normal. That may be odd sounding to some. It's the only word I can use though. I feel like a part of the world that was long denied to me. As an overweight guy, I felt like I was on the outside looking in. Running changed that for me.

As I move through the world I feel like I am a vibrant part of it. Oh, I know I don't look it. I know I look like a slow plodding guy running, but inside I feel like the running makes me an active member of the human race. I feel more aware of life when I run. I go to places that by car you zip by, and I get to see them close up.

I have had the good fortune to meet good people through running. People seem happy when running. Maybe they are feeling what I feel as I run?

All I know is that running brings me joy, and I feel I can be normal in life with running. Without running....not so normal.

Charlie

Summer is Here

The summer has been cool here in Chicago, but the heat is here in a big way now, just in time for the half marathon on Sunday.

I ran 6 miles today. It was darned humid out there. Was able to do the 8/1 interval for 3 miles, then to make it a bit easier on myself, I went to a 6/1 interval. I struggled a bit, but I did 6 miles. Hydration was the key. I am drinking Orange Ginger Nuun. Nuun is my favorite electrolyte product. Not heavy, not sweet...just right.

I did not carry music, but for some reason I had songs from Beauty and the Beast in my head. Go figure.

I have one more 6 mile run this week, then the Rock n' Roll Half on Sunday. Time to think about the pace and how I will run the race. Of course I will keep an eye on the weather and adjust as I need to.

I also need to figure where to have Mark meet me along the route. Time to look at the map and plan.

Charlie

12 Miles With a New Purpose

Yesterday was my 12 mile long run. I ran with a new purpose, a new goal. I was thinking about my change to the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon. Got to say I am down right happy about this decision. I felt a spring in my step as I ran towards Andersonville.

I did my no familiar loop - home - Andersonville - Edgewater - home. This time I did it twice. Mark met me at the end of six miles with new water, and off I went again. The run went great. For the last week I have had some neck pain, which I know understand is due to knots in my back. On this run the neck was not bothering me as much as it had. I think switching to a hydration belt from a hand held made the difference.

The run was warm....temps were in the 70s, and it was humid. We have not been big on the humidity this summer...but it's coming.

So how did I do? I ran the 12 miles in 2:29:57. That is pretty good. I think I was on the 12:30/mile pace. At this rate I could have a PR in next weekend's half marathon. Of course now I just jinxed myself.

The run was a success, and I am happy with it. I am a bit sore today. The massage I had last night really beat up my back a bit. I may need to recover from that.

All in all a good day.

Charlie

New Marathon Chosen - On to Indy

Over the last 24 hours I have searched for a replacement marathon for Toronto and I think I have found it - the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon - Nov. 7.

http://monumentalmarathon.com/

This will be a fun one. I have lived in Indianapolis, so this is a homecoming of sorts for me. It is a flat race, so no real hills to worry about. I will be able to see old friends. So all in all this is a great choice for me.

Now I have to adjust the training.

Charlie

A Difficult Decision

I have been thinking about this for a couple of weeks, but today, during jury duty, I really thought it all through. Due to financial issues, I have decided not to run the Toronto Waterfront Marathon. This was a difficult to decision to make, but one I had to make.

Mark and I had planned to make the marathon a mini-vacation. We were going to take a few days and really see Toronto, in addition to my running the race. Mark has had a couple of seizures in the last few months, so he has been in and out of work. This means I have taken on more of our responsibilities. So when I examined what we needed for this trip, I saw the money wasn't there.

Theoretically I could go on my own. I would rather not go to a marathon on my own without my support. I love having Mark at the races, and he enjoys being there and being the support crew. We are a team. To go without the teammate seems wrong.

So now I am searching for a marathon around that time which I could do, and Mark could come along. Looking for something close to Chicago. There are a couple in Indianapolis I am looking at, but I know there are others.

Thoughts?

Emotional day for me, but again I had to make the decision. Mark was sad about this, and felt responsible. I told him it is just the way things are, and no one is at fault.

Charlie

6 Good Miles

Today was a really good 6 mile run. I did my home - Andersonville - Edgewater loop, and felt good the entire time. It was sunny, not too hot. I was going at a great pace. In fact I went at a fast pace for a change - 11:40/mile. I felt terrific during the run.

Coming home brought me down to Earth. I got disturbung news which changed my mood, and made me wish I could have turned around and gone back out for 6 more miles. So I have been depressed all afternoon.

Arrrgh!

Life has a way of slapping you in the face sometimes. Today was a little slap. In the end things will be ok. It just sucks that after feeling so good after a run, I got dragged down.

Charlie

Long Run - Almost 11 MIles

Today I had planned an 11 mile run. I figured it all out on Map My Run, and off I went. The plan was to run from home to Evanston, go through downtown Evanston, run along the Northwestern Campus, turn around before Wilmette, and head back home.

I really enjoy running through Evanston. So many beautiful homes. The downtown area is really nice as well. Northwestern is quiet for the summer. I got a bit lost where my turnaround was, so I just kept running.

Eventually I ran to Wilmetter and stumbled upon the Baha'i Temple. It is a truly stunning piece of architecture. I took a moment to look at it, and the grounds, then I headed home.

I almost made 11 miles. I ran 10.3 miles. I'm ok with that. My pace was 12:43/mile. That is a bit slower than normal, but I think I was just enjoying the run. The weather was great. It was sunny on the way north, with temps in the upper 60s. Coming back it was cloudy, so it never got hot out there for me.

Chalk up another successful long run.

Charlie

Surly Folks

Tonight I ran from work to home, which is a 4.43 mile run. I have not seen so many surly looking folks. I wondered why everyone seemed grumpy? I felt fine, if not a bit tired on the run. Then again, I had been on my feet all day working. My pace was not speedy, but I had happy enough with it. It was warm, but not too hot. The clouds kept the heat from getting bad.

I am thinking of making my long run the middle run this week, as I have to work this weekend, so I want to run on a day off. I could go Thursday or Friday, then save the six mile run for the weekend when I have a shorter amount of time.

So this means I have to plot an 11 mile course. Hmmmm..........

Top Tens - Track and Field

Sports Illustrated has come out with a top ten list for track and field. Tim Layden has formulated this. Layden makes the point that this is not just a list of the best, but those whose performances were do thrilling.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/tim_layden/06/25/track.thrilllist/?eref=sihpT1

Here is the list:

1) Carl Lewis

2) Florence Griffith-Joyner

3) Bob Beamon

4) Sergey Bubka

5) Jesse Owens

6) Emil Zatopek

7) Usain Bolt

8) Marion Jones

9) Jan Zelezny

10) Steve Prefontaine

That is quite a list. I have to take exception to Marion Jones. Yes she was amazing to watch, which is what Leyden writes, but it was manufactured for the most part, and I have difficulty with cheaters in a top ten list. I even hold my breath over Usain Bolt. I am hoping it does not come out he also took drugs.

How you can have a list and not include Jackie Joyner-Kerse is just wrong to me. She was the greatest woman athlete of a generation if not of all time with her Heptathalon ability, she was the top of athleticism. I say take off Jones, and add Jackie.

Charlie

Feeling Good

Today I really felt good on my 6 mile run. I went the reverse of the route I took last time. I went from home to Andersonville, then to Edgewater, then home. It was sunny and in the low 70s. Actually it was very pleasant out there. People were out and about. Plenty of "Good mornings" out there. That always makes the run a bit nicer.

I knew I was on a faster than normal pace, but it never seemed like I was pushing anything. It all felt nice and easy today. My first half was in 36:30. My second half was 35:08, so I was running negative splits today. Rare, but pleased with myself. I just can't believe how easy it all felt. The only time I struggled a bit was at mile 4.5. I just fatigued for a moment, but at a stop light I stretched a bit, then ran once the light turned green, and I felt fine.

I was thinking ahead. My next few weeks are an increase in long run miles - 11, 12, 13. Overall I am pleased with how the running is going. Who knows...I may even enjoy the half marathon in August.

Charlie

Freedom Has a Price

1 in 100 people have at least one seizure in their lives. I read that recently and it terrified me. My boyfriend Mark suffers from seizures, and the doctor believes it is in fact Epilepsy. When Mark has a seizure it lasts for many minutes, and the results leave him in a lot of pain for days. He blacks out, so he has no idea how his body convulses, his eyes roll back, his body is rigid, and he has an agonizing look on his face. I breaks my heart to watch this. While we are determining what exactly is going on, I read yesterday about Diane Van Deren.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/09/sports/09ultra.html?em

Van Daren is an ultramarathoner who sufferes from seizures. Hers have been the extreme. She would have seizures 3-5 times a week. Her solution was to have lobectomy, where the part of her brain where the seizures begin was removed. This gave her freedom, but there is a price to pay - loss of memories - mostly short term.

As I read the article I felt so sad for her loved ones. They have to remind her of her life and experiences. Now Mark is nowhere near this extreme, but I can't imagine what it must be like to have to remind someone you love, that they in fact love you. The closest thing I can think of is coping with someone with Alzheimer's.

So while Diane is out there running and free from the terror of her ailment, I can't help but be sad for her.

Charlie

An Evening 6 Miler

This evening I ran a nice slow 6 miles from home to the Andersonville area and back. I really like this neighborhood. The old Swedish area is now home to an eclectic group of folks, including a growing gay/lesbian contingent. Lots of nice shops and restaurants.

As I got away from the lake, I lost the coolness of the air, so it got a bit warm out there tonight, but that was ok. The funny part of the run was running into my friend Angelica. She is runner who runs most of the fun runs at our store. I "ran" into her as she was heading to another running store to run their fun run tonight. I think she was a bit embarrassed, but I had not problem with it. I actually thought it was funny.

The run was slow mostly because people were on their way home, and I weaved in and out of people on the sidewalks. Normally I am a bit miffed by this, because I want a decent time, but tonight I just went with the flow. It was a good run.

This week's long run will be one more 6 mile run, then the long runs begin to climb.

Charlie

Up to Evanston - 6 Miles

Today was nice 6 mile run up to Evanston along Lake Michigan. It was a pretty sunny day. I think summer running is good and bad. The good is the sunshine...the bad the heat. I was actually fine until about 1 mile to go, then I felt the heat get to me. Otherwise it was a nice run today.

I ran at a touch over 12:00/mile, faster than marathon pace. I almost ran evenly. I ran 36:08 for the first 3 miles and 36:11 for the last half. Nothing wrong with that.

I wondered about the half marathon coming up in August. I think I will go for the 6/1 interval as opposed to the 8/1 attempt. I did the 8/1 interval for 4 miles, than with the heat, I cut back to a 6/1. It was a bit easier at that point.

I am pleased with today's run. And now I am enjoying a cool 7-Up. Ahhhhh......

Charlie

A Sunday Run - 10 Miles

This morning I headed out for a 10 mile long run. The route this time was along Sheridan Rd, to Marine Drive, and then on the Lake Shore Drive. Part of this route was my old running route when I lived in the Lakeview area. I have missed it, so it was nice to be see it again. I like this route, because I go by some lovely homes and gardens. It is always nice scenery seeing to gardens in full bloom.

Not many folks out this morning, but those who were running all said "morning" or "hi". I appreciated that.

I felt great the first 7 miles. The last 2.5-3 I felt I struggled. I think fatigue was settting in. I finished in 2:03:56, which is decent. I believe I am on pace for a sub 3 hour half marathon in a few weeks. This will give me a good idea of how I am doing in a longer race.

I am running the Rock n' Roll Chicago on August 2. Should be a warm day, which could be trouble.

We'll see.

Charlie

Happy 4th of July

For those in the U.S., today is our Independence Day celebrations. For the rest of you...it's July 4. People were out and about yesterday getting ready for today. Grocery stores were full of folks buying things for their cook outs. Our store was busy, with folks getting running shoes and apparel. I better see a lot of those folks tomorrow on my 10 mile run. :-)

Yesterday I ran a nice 6 miles. It felt nice and easy. I did not push to hard. The running came easy to me. It just felt good to be out there. Overall I am pleased with my running of late. I am hoping tomorrow's run is just as good as the two 6 milers I have had this week.

Happy 4th of July.

Charlie

Shoes at the Table

Last night I participated in the Runners Round Table podcast. For those not familiar, this is a great podcast where runners from all over come together and talk about various topics. I had noticed that in the previous episodes no one had talked shoes. Seemed to me that was a pretty important subject to cover, so I suggested it. Once it was suggested, I was then scheduled as a "guest" on the show to talk shoes. Makes sense, I sell shoes everyday, and I know a thing or two about shoes.

Last night's show was going to answer "all" the questions they had about shoes. I don't know if I answered all of them, but I was happy to talk shoes with the folks. I had never done a podcast, so I was a bit nervous. The hosts were all friendly though. I should remember runners are a friendly group of people, and they aren't going to leave you hanging. :-)

I had a great time, and hope people got something out of what I had to say. There is more I could say, but maybe we save that for a follow up episode.

Give the program a listen and let me know what you think.

http://runnersroundtablepodcast.blogspot.com/

Charlie

This is July?

The calendar says July 1. Outside it is in the 60s and there is a misty rain going on. Perfect for a nice fall run. I ran 6 miles today. I started at home, went through the Edgewater area, over to Andersonville, and then home to Rogers Park.

These are all very different areas. Rogers Park is along Lake Michigan and has a diverse population. Edgewater is mostly condos along the lake. Andersonville is the old Swedish neighborhood, now home to a large collective of gays and lesbians.

I enjoyed this run. I felt relaxed and good as I plugged along. My pace was 12:21/mile, which is where I like to be. I managed to keep up with the 8/1 interval. Amazing what a lack of heat will do to your running. Clearly my body likes to run in the cooler weather.

As I ran, I decided to let my mind go. When I would think of something, I would quickly let it go. I wanted a peaceful run, and I got it.

I guess I should have thought about what all I will talk about on the Runners Round Table podcast tonight. I have a good idea though. The topic is shoes, which is something I know about. :-)

The show will start at 8 p.m. central time. http://runnersroundtablepodcast.blogspot.com/ The podcast is available on ITunes, and will most likely be ready tomorrow. I will talk about pronation, the importance of getting a proper fitting shoe, latest trends in shoes, etc. It should be an interesting show.

That's all for now....next up - another 6 mile run.

Charlie

Countdown....

BTW it is 90 days until the marathon!

Charlie

Proud to Run - 10K

Yesterday was the Proud to Run 10K. Not my favorite race, but I like the idea that gays and lesbians come out for this race, and really support it. I don't like the course. There are parts of the Lakfront Path that are not easy for me to navigate, and this race goes through them. I also feel this race lacks some support. Having a course marshall tell me, "You're almost there," at Mile 2 is not too supportive.

Still off I went on the 10K yesterday. It started not so hot, and quickly got hot. I did not feel this race real well. That feeling stayed with me the entire race. I wanted to run it in 1:15. The wheels fell off close to the Mile 5 marker. I was not going very fast, but I was within reach of the time I wanted. I got hot...and I started walking a bit more.

I think the main problem was I needed to not think of this as a race, but more a training run. I bet I would relax a bit more then. Still this gave me a good idea what to expect in August when I run the Rock n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon.

I took Gatorade with me, and I was glad to have it, though I would like to find an alternative to it.

At mile 3, this one guy and I seemed to be going back and forth. I would pass him, he would pass me. I was determined to beat him, so I pushed a little harder. At mile 5, he came back to me, and we did the alternate passing thing for a bit. As we got to the home stretch, we were neck and neck, but I had no kick left, and he finished ahead of me. Arrrgh! My time was around 1:18. The results aren't up yet, so I don't know my time for sure.

I was pretty pissed about this race, but on the trip home, I thought about it some more. I was still at a pace which would have made me sub 6:00 in the marathon, so I guess I am doing pretty well in that department. See....a silver lining.

Charlie

Proud to Run - Revenge

Last year I ran the Proud to Run 10K. It was not my favorite race. I thought the course was pretty bad. It was also my last race of the year, as I dealt with IT Band issues. I have entered it again this year. Why? Two reasons: 1) I need the miles; 2) I want to tackle that course again. I know I can do better. My time last year was 1:16:39. Hot conditions and a crappy course made it tough on me.

I feel my marathon training has helped me prepare better for this year. I think I have even improved since the Soldier Field 10 Mile. I know I can bring that time down.

I just wish it wasn't the same course as last year! Arrrgh. The course is along the lakefront, but it is oddly configured. Also there are odd places for the aid stations - i.e. an aid station at Mile 5 1/2! I think I may take my own this year, and skip their water.

Before the race on Saturday, I have a 6 miler to plan.

Charlie

Man it is HOT Out There!

Today was a scortcher in Chicago. It was hot an humid. So naturally I went on a 4 mile run this evening. Now had it been earlier in the day I would have died. I felt pretty good out there tonight. I decided to change up the interval due to the heat. Instead of 8/1, I did 6/1. This worked well in the sweltering heat.

Lots of folks were running after work. Some even seemed not to mind the heat, and greeted me as I would go by. That was nice.

I felt much better today than in the botched 10 mile attempt last weekend. While I doubt I could have done 10 miles.....I was fine with 4.

This was a tempo run, and I did negative splits, so something worked. My pace was 11:45/min. Not too shabby. I still have a 6 mile and a 10K to run this week. Hope it gets a touch cooler.

Charlie

The Long Run That Wasn't

Today the goal was 10 miles. What happened was I ran 5 in a nasty heat. I went slowly, and changed my interval after the first couple of miles. At mile 4 I walked about a 1/4 mile. I felt miserable. Our weather has not been anywhere close to this since last summer. I saw a lot of people suffering out there. I was not suffering, but I wasn't in good form.

I stopped at 5 miles and I am ok with that for today. There is always another long run.

Charlie

No Boundaries - The Race

Last night was graduation for my No Boundaries runners. Their target for the previous 9 weeks was to train for the Jim Gibbons 5K. We had about 20 in our program, and of that about 12 ran the race last night. While I was happy for my folks, it was a bittersweet night, as Mark could not run after the seizure he had the other day. He went to cheer folks on, but it was obvious how sad he was.

I promised to pace a group of the women. Once the race start off we went. Our pace was a 4:00 run/1:00 minute walk. I ean with Rosie, Kathy, Colleen and Jen. Jen was Mark's running buddy during this program, and he was so worried she would have no one to run with. Are you kidding? She was our timer. :-)

It was a humid warm night, so we did not go at a blazing speed. The course is in Grant Park, and along Lake Michigan. If you have not run along Lake Michigan in Chicago, you should. The city makes an ideal back drop for any run.

For the most part the race was fine. Rosie was the motivational gal. Kathy was just wanting to finish. Colleen was a bit ahead of us. Jen was the determined one. I was talking with all of them, and making sure they were ok.

As we got to the last 1/4 mile, we ran into the walkers. I wish there had been better markings so runners did not have to weave through the walkers. Rosie kept yelling, "Runners on the left....move please!"

I told them my first 5K was in 45:00, and hoped we would beat that. We did....we crossed the line in 43:30! Jen hugged me as soon as we crossed the line. There were high fives from the other gals. When we got back to our tent, the rest of the runners were there, and they were all so happy. Josh was most pleased. He finished in 30:01. His goal was to run in under 10:00/mile and he did. He was the guy who told us at the start he wanted to run so he could out run zombies. I believe he made that!

This No Boundaries was an incredible experience. I loved training these folks and getting them ready. How many will keep running will be interesting to see.

Charlie

Telling Your Guy He Can't run

One of the hardest things a coach can do is tell his athelete he shouldn't run. I had to tell Mark this yesterday after he had a seizure on the train coming home. When he has these his body hurts for days. I think the shock to the system really takes it toll on him

When I got to the hospital he was upset for many obvious reasons. One of them was he asked me what would he do about the 5K on Thursday? I told him he probably shouldn't run. He looked at me very sadly, and said, "But I worked so hard. Who will run with Jen?" Jen is his running buddy in No Boundaries.

I told him Jen would certainly understand. I also joked that there are more 5K's than you can shake a stick at.

Still I understood his pain. No runner likes to be told they can't run. We are a stubborn group of people who love running and racing. There will be other days and other races.

I am so sad for him today though.

Charlie

Summer Came

Chicago has been in the month of Junetober as I call it. We have had a cold month, which is ideal for running. Yesterday was summer. It was warm, and a touch humid as I ran my 6 miles. I went along the Chicago River which is a nice run.

The run itself was ok, though my was a bit achy as I went along. I felt exhausted at the end. Why is it a 6 mile run can drain you more than a 9 mile run?

Sometimes I get emotionally down when I am physcially spent. I felt down all day after the run. Hope this won't be the norm for the summer.

Still I am glad to get the 6 miles in. This week I have a 5K and then a 10 mile run on the weekend.

Charlie

Need to Slow Down - a 9 MIle Run

Today was my long run - 9 miles. I went out too fast. I think I get it in my head that I have to break some sort of barrier when I run. So I ran the first half in 53:56. I was much slower the second half. By mile 7.5 I felt I was dragging a bit. What this means is I need to learn to go out slower. How? Any suggestions?

One thing I was very happy with I managed to keep the 8/1 interval for all but one interval. I am getting stronger at the interval thing.

I ran along the lakefront. It was ideal. Temps were in the 60s and it was sunny. I felt comfortable, yet I was sweating up a storm. Most have hated this month - Junetober, but I have liked the cooler weather for running.

Next week the long run is 10 miles - phew! Looking forward to it.

Charlie

"Born to Run" by Christopher McDougall

For most runners when they talk about classic books about running, they mention, "Once a Runner" or "The Front Runner." I have read both those books, and while I understand what people are saying about them, I have never found them to be the magnificent books I am supposed to love. Maybe I just needed to find my classic. I have - "Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes , and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen" by Christopher McDougall.

McDougall is a contributing editor to "Men's Health" and has written as a correspondent for The Associated Press. I don't know where he has been all my life, but I am so glad to have found his latest book.

McDougall starts out with a basic question for his doctor, "Why does my foot hurt?" Never has a simple question led to an adventure. McDougall introduces readers to a little known tribe called Tarahumara Indians, who live in a remote area in Mexico. The Tarahumara have perfected the art of long distance running, and are able to run hundreds of miles without rest.

McDougall's adventure introduces us not only to this reclusive tribe, but to an amazing cast of characters who live to run. We meet Caballo Blanco, a mysterious presence in the Copper Canyon region where the Tarahumara live. His goal is not only to perfect to art of running, but to create the greatest race in the world. Ultramarathoners around the world, including champion Scott Turek meet the Tarahumara, and participate in the race.

The book reads like an adventure tale, but it is non-fiction. I think that is what I liked about this book. McDougall takes the readers on a wild ride into the world of the ultramarathoner. In doing so we also get a lesson in biology, anthropology, psychology and spirituality. This is one of the rare books I have read where I am truly sad to get to the last chapter and know the end is near.

I loved this book. This is one of those books I will be giving as gifts to people, because I want them to share the in the adventure. If you are a runner, you need to read this. If you aren't, but just love stories with interesting characters, and some life lessons along the way, this is your book.

Charlie

The Heart of an Ultramarathoner...The Body of a 5K Runner

I am reading an amazing book titled, "Born to Run" by Christopher McDougall. I will review it soon, but in short it looks at an amazing trible of ultramarathoners in Mexico. As you may know I am also a huge fan of ultramarathoner Dean Karnazes. It is safe to assume I am drawn to the ultramarathon. Sadly though, I know I can't run one.

For definition purposes an ultramarathon is a race longer than 26.2 miles. There are 50 mile, 100 mile, and probably 200 mile races that these hearty souls go out and attack. The climb mountains, endure the heat of the desert, wade through water and mud, always pushing their bodies to the ultimate limit.

I think it is that push, the desire to test your body which draws me in. Of course they are also testing themselves in some of the most stunning and fascinating places on Earth. My test is 26.2 miles, and I know I am even limited in that. I know my body is not a marathon body. My training for past marathons, and the race itself has pushed me hard. Anything beyond that might do more harm.

So I have to find the challenges in the races I can do. I have to find how hard I can go at shorter distances, with the occasional marathon. Inside though....I have the heart and desire of an ultramarathoner. I think once I realized I could go 26.2, I wondered about more.

Let's be clear, I am not saying I am going to start training for an ultra. I don't think I should. I think it would be horrible for my body. Still I can wish it.

Charlie

"I just ran..."

Sandra's comment to my last post reminded me of a post I wanted to write about for a while. Working in a running store, you have some interesting conversations about running. It comes with the territory that you will talk about the long run you did, or the speed work you ran. Normally the conversation goes like this:

A: How was your long run?

B: It was good, I felt great out there, a bit sore now.

A: How far did you go?

B: I just ran 15 miles.

This week I was part of a conversation like that, and I made the comment to the co-worker, "Do you know how odd that sounds to non-runners?" He didn't understand. I pointed out that 15 miles is normally something you do in a car, not on two feet. I think he got my point.

For runners the longer you run, and the longer distances you run, you find those longer miles "are just..." I say it like this for two reasons. First, because we are training for a marathon, and 8, 10, 15 miles is short compared to the 26. 2 we will do on race day. Second, I think it is a mental game we play. Make no mistake, running 8 miles as I did yesterday is not a breeze, but if we can make it sound like a breeze, mentally we are preparing for those longer runs. After you have run 15 or even 20, 8 miles seem light.

Today I'm not running. This week I have a 6 mile, a 5K time trial, and "just" 9 miles for my long run.

Charlie

The Run I Ran

Today I ran 8 miles. Nothing too odd about that. Originally though, threat of storms met I might run on the treadmill. Instead I headed up the road to Northwestern University. I ran without the the IPod today, and I was glad I did. I liked listening to the sounds around me. Mostly I listened to my breathing and my feet hitting the ground. My mantra in my head was to keep my steps light. This was something I learned in a book and I currently reading and will share with all of you once I am finished.

I enjoyed the run until I got to the 4 mile mark. I looked at the watch, and realized I left later than I thought. I had a meeting at 5:30, so I really ran home. I ended up with a pretty quick time - 1:36:10. That is roughly a 12:00/mile pace. That's faster than my goal. So then I got mad at myself for that. I know seems silly to be mad for going faster. I am trying though to stay on pace.

Still the day was pleasant and nice. Lots of people were in the parks have picnics, playing, or just out. I love seeing those scenes. All in all, much better than if I had run on the treadmill.

So another "week" of running is in the books. I look forward to more runs and trainings this week.

Charlie

Taking My Own Advice

Last night during No Boundaries, I talked about listening to your body. Today I am listening to mine. It is telling me my legs are feeling stiff, and not up to par. So no running today. I'll take it easy, and focus on the upcoming 8 mile run.

As people who know me will attest, I am not always good at following my own advice. Today though....I will.

No Boundaries went very well last night. We got to the 3 mile mark, with two weeks until the race. These folks are trying so hard, and I am so proud of them. If I can brag for a moment, I am especially proud of Mark. He is enjoying running, and I have noticed changes in him as far as his health. I can't wait to see him at the start of the 5K.

Charlie

National Running Day

Yesterday was National Running Day, and to celebrate - I ran. I had thought I would do the 6 mile run, but instead I did my 5 mile tempo run. It was a pretty good run.

While running I thought of some of my favortie running moments. In the end I came to a good conclusion. No matter how many medals I earn, or PR's I run, or races I enter, the fact is my favorite moment is when I put on the shoes and go for a run. 

Yes, I treasure my moments where I am crossing a finish line. I love the anticipation of the start of a race. I enjoy the challenge of figuring out my pace. More importantly though, I love the fact that a few times a week, I can head outside, run, and enjoy the world around me. I can get away from the world for a time and just be on my own. I can think, or not think. I can meditate. I can just be. That to me is perhaps the greatest running moment.

Charlie

7 Years Later - A Roller Coaster Ride

Today I went to Six Flags Great America. I have not been there since 2002. That summer I went to Six Flags with my friend Joe. I am a lover of roller coasters. On this particular day, I was embarassed and humiliated. I tried to ride the roller coasters, and I was asked to get off, because I was too big for the security guard to secure me. I spent that day watching my friend Joe ride the rides I wanted to ride.

Today I got to ride the roller coasters. Mark and I went to Six Flags, and I rode all the cool rides. It felt so good to be able to get in them, be secured and go. Just when I thought I had all the great moments as a result of losing weight, here was another one, and this one felt good! 

On an ironic note, while on one of the rides, I saw employees ask an overweight girl to get off the ride. The reason? She was too big and the secure restraints could not secure her. I felt sad for her, but it is my hope that one day she will have a moment like I had today. 

Another emotional moment for me.

Charlie