I Know What I Am Talking About

Yes, this is a rare double entry for a day, but it needs to be said. I know what I am talking about, when I talk about running and shoes. I understand I don't "look" like a runner - whatever that means. I understand I have not run Boston. I have run races ranging from 5K to marathon. I have been running since 2005, and have been in running specialty since 2006. I know quite a bit, and I also am aware of what I don't know.

You may ask why the rant? Well, every now and then, I get someone who doesn't think I am a runner. That person usually asks, "Are you a runner?" When I say yes, they look shocked. Yeah, I'm used to it. Then I get the people who ask something like this...."Are you sure this is right for me? Are you sure you know what you are talking about/"

I shouldn't take it personally, but I do. When I worked for the airline, I used to get mad when a customer would accuse me of lying. At Macy's if I wasn't able to give a discount, I would get mad if someone accused me of cheating them. I take my job very seriously, and have studied very hard to know what I know. So yes, I do in fact know what I am talking about.

Rant over.

Charlie

Following My Runs

Most bloggers know you can check statistics of your blog. You can check things like: how many pageviews, hits, what kind of OS, and what part of the world. The last one I find the most interesting. I have a fairly international audience on this blog. Here is the ranking of pageviews by countries:

1) United States
2) Russia
3) Japan
4) Indonesia
5) Australia
6) Canada
7) United Kingdom
8) Germany
9) Vietnam
10) Belgium

Of course I am appreciative of people reading my blog. When I started writing, I didn't think anyone would really read what I had to say. You all do, and sometimes you respond to my posts on this blog, or via email, or personally.

When I run, I am aware that a good many of you follow me. It's like you are all my support crew cheering me on, and I am thankful for it. I'm only sorry I don't know any Russian, Japanese, German, Vietnamese, or Flemish, or I would write at least a few words for you language. Just know I am glad you are all with me on this journey.

Charlie

Three Miles With My Thoughts

Today I headed out for a 3 mile run. I haven't done 3 miles since January. I felt no matter what I accomplished today, this would be the one MUST DO. With my iPod filled with Pitbull's music, off I went.

One of the things I have written about over the years, is that a run allows you time with your thoughts. While the Miami-thumping music played, I thought a lot about the last few months. Nothing has been easy. To say I have had stress in my life is an understatement. My initial thoughts were negative.

I thought about how I had let myself down weight wise, emotional wise, work wise, and any other wise I could think of. Once I got past the halfway point, things changed. My goal was 3 miles. So I decided that for the rest of the run, I was done with the negative thoughts. I was going to think about the things I do well.

One thing I do well is push ahead. I thought back to the 2010 Portland Marathon(the 8-hour challenge), and how I kept on going, no matter how much I may have wanted to give up. I thought about the races where my mind wanted to shut down, but I pushed back, and kept on moving. There is nothing as motivating as remembering that you can, in fact succeed, and push forward and achieve success. This was how I got to mile 3 today.

I pushed back the weight gain and how disappointed I am. I pushed back the difficulties at work. I pushed back the negative things which have poisoned me. I pushed ahead, and remembered I am a stronger person and can do things.

So while this was not a zippy 3 mile run, it was an important one for my head.

Charlie

The Eyes of Wonder

One of my favorite things to do in my job is to talk to someone who is getting ready for their first marathon. I ask them various questions about what made them decide to do a particular race, how will they be training, how was training been going to this point, etc. There is one question I always ask, "What are you looking forward to the most?"

When I ask this, I find runners begin to open up and tell me their marathon hopes and dreams. They smile and talk about how they want to see the people, or how much they are looking forward to the challenge. Sometimes they tell me that they are looking forward to seeing their families at the end. What all of these answers surround is they are looking forward to the experience.

You can run any race, but I say, without question, the marathon experience is unique. You train so hard and long for it, and then the day arrives, and your anticipation is at an all time high. You are about to embark on an adventure, and you have no idea what will happen over the course of 26.2 miles.

All of my marathons have had their own story. There has been nothing the same about any of them. I take that back, there is one common thing - you run 26.2 miles. Other than that, you have no idea what will happen. You may see amazing things, or people. You may experience pure joy, or horrible heartache. Still there is a thrill of wondering what the unknown will be like on that particular day.

As people tell me what they are looking forward to, I see smiles. I see wonder. I see a runner getting ready to go for something they haven't done before. It makes my job all that more special.

Charlie

78 Days Later.....

It's been 78 days since I last put on these shoes for a run.  Those 78 days have been pretty friction miserable. On the morning of January 13 I woke up, took a step off my bed, and a nasty shooting pain between big toe and second toe on the left foot began. I swear that is all that happened. 

I didn't want to run until I had been pain free for at least 7 days. Well it's been 10 days(I was extra careful). So this afternoon I headed out for a 2 mile run. I laced up ------------------------->

then I headed on the Monon Trail and ran.

My first few steps I could feel my feet asking me what the HELL was going on. I did not push myself at all. I just went at a slow steady pace. I ran an interval. Instead of my usual, I ran for 3 minutes, and walked for about 1 minute. 

It was sunny and in the 50s, so it felt great. There were plenty of people out on this Easter Sunday. One gentleman on a bike went past me twice. Each time he waved at me and said, "Keep it up man!" I thought, "Ok, who told his guy I needed that?" 

This run won't go down as my fastest, or my best. In my log it looks like 2.08 miles 31:28. It will go down as an important run. It's important for my body and my soul that I get back on the road and run. Today I did it.....and I am feeling good.

Charlie

Time to Ease Back

I have gone relatively pain free in my left foot for a week now. Let me be clear, I am not feeling the stabbing pain, and it feels better, but I am also feeling just a general ache - I call that arthritis. So my goal is to do some walking and short running next week.

The Soldier Field 10 Mile is at the end of May. Will I run it as I would like? Doubtful, but I want to be able to run. How I would like to run is going to take a back seat.

What about my fall marathon? I am still planning on that. I need to get started running though. I feel achy, but like I said, I think that is the arthritis talking to me.

Happy to talk me running again....crossing fingers.

Charlie

No Magic Pill

Interesting encounter with a runner who has suffered from the dreaded plantar fascism(as I call it), who asked me if there was anything that was 100% at curing his ailment. Nope. Well, that's the short answer. He didn't like that answer.

We talked about various things to do, or products he could buy which would help him get over it, but no. He has suffered for months. Won't do what the physical therapist suggested, but he couldn't assure him it was 100% effective. He didn't want to do massage therapy, because there is no 100% certainty. He didn't want to try any products I suggested, because I could not assure him he would be cured.

Finally I told him that none of these things do what you want to do, but if you do a series of them, and continue to work on it, it can go away. That wasn't good enough. No to arch supports, Strasbourg Socks, supportive shoes. He finally said it, "I just want the magic pill."

Folks there is no magic pill to curing any physical ailment. There is also no one thing responsible for the ailment(most of the time). Go ahead and blame the shoes, because they don't talk back. Nothing happens in a vacuum though. Chances are you have plantar fascism because of a combination of things.

Because a combination of things brought you to this point, there will be a combination of things which will get you out of it. Just know there is no 100% of any of it - alone.

Charlie

What Should You Run?

As I work with runners, I am frequently asked if they should run such and such distance. There is no easy answer for this. If you have never run, and you have a marathon on your "bucket list" I advise people not to do that right away. I stress the importance of building up your running to a marathon distance.

First of all, you need to determine if you like running. As I have said many times, how do you train for a 26.2 mile race if you don't know if you like running? Figure for now what is manageable for you. Maybe you need to focus on the 5K.  Nothing wrong with 5Ks.

Maybe you want the challenge of the half marathon? This is actually my favorite distance to run. It's challenging, but without the intense training. Most of our bodies can take a half marathon.

I never think anyone should run just one distance, or focus on one distance. Running gets stale if that is all you do. Mix it up! Throw in a 10K for giggles. Do a 5K for a speed workout. Run a half and get the medal. Marathons are always going to be there. They will always require a lot of work. Before jumping in, figure out what you want, what you are capable of, and how much time you want to dedicate to it.

Charlie

Depressed

For those who regularly read this blog, you may know that when I am down, I tend not to write here. Well, I am more than down, I am down right depressed. I haven't run since January, and today I was signed up to run a marathon, which I had to back out of. I hate not running. I also hate complaining that I'm not running, but I'm going to do that here.

I have gained weight. I feel gross. I haven't been able to run, or get time in to see a doctor to see why I can't run. On top of this, I have races coming, that I will have to back out of. Did I mention I hate that?

Originally the pain was the left foot between the big and second toes. That is lessened, but both feet are sore all the time. I know some of it is from the weight I have gained. I can't be active though.

I am also dealing with stresses in my non-running life, at work, and non-work. As an emotional eater, you know what has happened. I know things will get better, because they have to. The problem is, they aren't, and that bothers me, because of my impatience.

Tomorrow, my first goal is to see when I can see a doctor. I have tried this before, but things get in the way. I am hoping by posting this here, I will be committed to calling the doctor.

So, yes, I am dumping today. Yes, I need some bucking up. Sorry to be so needy today.

Charlie

Every Now and Then

In my job, every now and then, I hear something from someone which takes me a back for the moment, but once I have thought it through, it reminds me why I love what I do. This spring I am coaching folks for their spring half marathons. I know the people who I help train appreciate what I do. Still it's nice when someone makes a point of telling you.

Yesterday I received a call from one of the participants. He ran a 10K yesterday, and he wanted me to know how he did. I asked him, as I usually do, if he won. He laughed and said no, but, "I was told I could run with the Kenyans." I told him we can all run with them, we just can't pass them. He laughed.

What he really wanted to tell me is how much he appreciates everything my co-coach and I are doing. This is a guy who comes in, or calls me with any question about running and racing. He thinks he is keeping me from doing something "important." I tell him that talking to him and answering his questions is important, and I am happy to do it. 

He is "blaming" me for his next move. After the Mini, he is going to train for his first marathon. He has been asking advice on which one to do, how to train, what to expect. I am happy to pass along anything I learned in my running life. This is what we do, or should do.

When someone comes to running, excited, I think we have an obligation to share that joy with them, help them along the way, and answer any and all questions they may have. Maybe I'm not a running coach, maybe I am more of a running mentor/advisor? Either way, it brings a big smile to my face to know that I have helped someone achieve their goals.

So while I am temporarily awkward when the thank you comes, I know it's genuine, and I love and appreciate they think kindly of me to thank me.

Charlie

Throwing Under the Bus

Every now and then I will talk to a runner who feels the person who sold them their shoes got everything wrong, or they will feel a shoe brand is wrong for them, and they will ask, "Don't you think they got it wrong?" I will never throw a person or a brand under the bus. Nope. I won't do it.

Here is the thing about gait analysis, what I see at that moment is what I see. Now, a runner could come to me, and they have plantar fascitis, and what I see is them running making adjustments, and I think they need a stable shoe. They could come in a month later not hurting, and I might see they need a neutral shoe. Was I wrong in my initial assessment? Not at the time. I might re-think based on what is in front of me.

Also, gait analysis is not an exact science. We all know what to look for in the business, but there is so much to take in, and yes, sometimes we get it wrong. I won't though tell a runner so and so really goofed.

I also won't bash a brand to a runner. Yes....I hear all the time about that demon - Nike. Here's the thing, Nike makes some outstanding shoes. Nike makes some less than outstanding shoes, but so does every brand. I have yet to find consistency in a brand, because they are trying to reach a broad audience.

The truth is I sell a lot of Nike's so someone likes them. I sell a lot of Brooks, so someone likes them. All I can do is talk about the benefits of a shoes, and why I think it might work for them.

Mostly I think it is poor taste to throw a fellow associate or businessman under the bus. I also think bashing a brand is equally as bad.

Charlie

It's Also Mental

As we train for long distance races, we tend to focus on the accumulating of miles, focusing on our form, how we breathe. We tend to forget that a race is two parts. Yes it's half physical, but it's also half mental.

How do you mentally get through long runs and distances? Everyone has their own way to do it. My way is part game playing and depending on support. The game playing is "easy." As you fatigue mentally, you have to make challenges for yourself to get you through a stretch of road. Let's say it's mile 17, you know you are achy. This is the point the brain begins to tell you to stop, or as I call it, this is the point where the wheels can come off.

I get it, you have miles to go, your body is aching, and you want to stop, but you can't. Do some mind games. Fix a point, and tell yourself to jog to that point, and if you succeed, you can walk a bit. Of course the trick is, once you get to the point, try to move beyond it, as a way to show the brain you can keep going. I find this works for a time. Of course at some point the brain catches on, and you have to come up with a new challenge.

If game playing and challenges aren't working, I depend on support. Support usually means I race call. You've never heard of race calling? I bet you've heard of drunk dialing or texting - same concept. Take your cell phone with you, and when you really need to get through a particular mile, call someone. Make sure the person(s) you call know you may be calling them. This way they can answer the phone and talk to you.

The usual victim of my calls is my sister. She has talked me through many a race. Of course I am usually an emotional mess, so I may not appreciate her words at the moment, but the brain hears them, and it helps me keep going.

Does anyone out there have other ideas?

Charlie

Chicago Marathon Registration Debacle

As you know I don't have a great history with the Chicago Marathon(2007). I do love the race, and I think it is an outstanding marathon. I don't always agree with what organizers do, and their recent problems with registration and the outcome have me really scratching my head.

Quick history lesson.....earlier this month registration for the fall marathon went live. Technical problems ensued, and many people were charged multiple times for registering(at $175) a pop. The marathon shut down registration, and determined 25,000 registered that day. So the question is what to do with the remaining 15,000 slots?

The easy answer is fix the bugs and open up registration. That's not what they did though.

Yesterday organizers announced a lottery system for the remaining 15,000 slots. Starting March 5, going through March 7, you can enter the lottery for an entry. The lottery is free. If they choose your name, you will have two days to decide if you will enter. If you choose not to enter, that entry will not go to the next person in line. It will be vacant. They will not award that entry to anyone else.

To be honest, this makes no sense to me. Now you have created a rift. There will be those who followed the rules and entered just like normal. Now, though you will have a random drawing for the rest. Why not just open registration up again and let the chips fall where they may.

Carey Pinkowski has made an error in my mind. He is now setting up a different system for runners, which I don't think is fair. Why not work more with Active.com to fix whatever the issues are? I understand the system was overwhelmed, but in this day and age, can't that be anticipated?

I give the Chicago Marathon a big BOO on this one. They blew it.

Charlie

Tipping Point

Recently I read an article about the decline in participation in marathons and half marathons. The author of the story did little to indicate why this may be, other than a glut of races. I will say, it's possible the glut of races out there may be a factor. I offer another  - cost.

Let's take a look at the cost of some races:

One America 500 Festival Mini Marathon - $75
Chicago Marathon $175
NYC Marathon $250
Disney Half or Full Marathon $190 for each
Community First Fox Cities Marathon $60

Clearly the bigger the event, the higher the cost. This does not include travel expenses for these races. Then there is the training programs, shoes, gear, etc.. The economy has been stagnant for a while, and while races have seen a boom in participation, there is a tipping point where it begins to decline, and I suspect that is starting now.

Note, the 500 Festival Mini Marathon, as of this writing, has not sold out. Typically it would have sold out after Thanksgiving. Are people not willing to pay the higher prices? Are they finding cheaper races? In Carmel, IN, they will have a marathon and half marathon a few weeks before the Mini. The marathon costs $75 and the half is $60. The Geist Half Marathon is after the Mini and the fee is $75, so roughly the cost of the Mini, but fewer people.

Now let's add the gear into the mix. Shoes two years ago averaged $100 a pair, now they are $110 a pair. Apparel has also gone up. The costs of racing now is higher once you factor the other items into it.

Of course I have no data, but more and more people are talking to me about lower priced shoes. Yes, there are still plenty of people willing to pay $150 a pair, but I am having more and more conversations about price. People are watching their wallets.

The costs of a race include a lot of goodies for runners. Ok, I still want my medal, but maybe adding a fee for the shirt, and making it an option might help. I know a large part of race costs go to the city for fire, police and street maintenance, can these be negotiated?

I have no answers. I am just putting out there that maybe race organizers, instead of making races bigger and better, need to focus on putting out quality, and working harder to make the races more affordable.

Charlie

This n That

I'm sorry for the absence from the blog. Part of the reason is lack of time, another part is lack of internet. Still I have a lot to say, and I am going to tackle a few subjects in this....

My Running -

I haven't run in over a month. The reason is some incredible left foot pain. It has felt like a huge stick being dug into my foot, between the first and second toe. I have gotten all kinds of advice on what it could be. Eventually a doctor will be seen. I don't want to get too hung up in Google diagnosing myself. Is it a neuroma? Could be. I will say today the pain feels like it is fading, but I have learned that is a cruel trick sometimes.

I miss running. I miss being part of the being outside and part of the world. I hope to be back to running soon.

Oscar Pistorius -

No story has captured the attention of runners like the sad story coming out of South Africa. As you may know,  double amputee runner, Oscar Pistorius allegedly killed his girlfriend on Valentine's Day. The Prosecution is saying this was premeditated. Pistorius is saying it was an accident. Either way, this is a tragedy on many levels.

I have admired this young man for a long time, and was so happy when he ran in last summer's Olympic Games in London. A friend of mine told me that this is another reason why we can't have athletes be role models. I agree and disagree.

We need to really think what it is about the the athlete we admire. Is it what they've accomplished, and how they did it? If so, Pistorius is a model for determination. The problem is we think we know these people because of what they do athletically, and what their press agents feed us. The truth is we don't know these people.

We didn't know Tiger Woods like we thought. We suspected Lance Armstrong. We want to believe our athletes are good hearted, brave and honest. The problem is we forget these people are human. They get angry. They get depressed. They have issues. If you want your children to use them as role models, make sure you are being clear with them why they are to be admired. When athletes fall though, it's important we talk with our children about what happened, and to remind them they are humans.

Parents -

The trials and tribulations of working with high school athletes is really in working with their parents sometimes. SOME parents I should say.  For the last month I have worked some angry parents. They seem to fly off the handle if we don't have a size 13 immediately in stock, and their son needs it today(when they should have looked about a month earlier). They get mad if the spikes don't have what they think is enough spike holes(I know that throws me too). Anger really comes up if a Nike is not in stock.

Remember what I said about role models? Throwing a hissy fit in a running store in front of your children is not the way to teach your children.

The parents who are wonderful and have wonderful kids are a joy to work with. Those are the folks who make my day. The good news is they are the majority of parents I work with.

So there you have it three different topics. Foot is maybe on the mend? I'l keep you all updated.

Charlie

Buy Local

I talked about this on an online running forum, but I would like to expand on this here. Quite often I hear people say they get their initial shoes at a local running store, but will go online for other purchases because:

The store doesn't have the color I want
The store doesn't have the size I want
The shoe is cheaper online
The shoe will come to me faster

Ironically these are some of the people who believe in shopping locally. I'm going to be a bit harsh here for a moment....you don't believe in shopping locally if you are shopping online as opposed to your local store on a regular basis.

Here are some things you need to understand.

Shoes in general make up for 70%-75% of a running store's business.

When you place a special order with a running store for shoes, the store makes virtually no money on those shoes, because they are not buying them from a vendor at an optimal discount(almost no discount). The vendor is charging the store the shipping, and most if not all running stores DO NOT pass these costs on to you, out of a sense of customer service.

Approximately 75% of shoes which are special ordered are never purchased. Why? You found the color you want now at Dick's, or you went home online, because you didn't want to wait 7 days for your shoes.

Running stores can't have every size in stock. What they sell are the most common sizes. Yes, they will have some unusual sizes in stock, but not a regular stock of them. They can't, because shoes in a stock room is money not being made. Shoes = money to a running store.

At a running store, you aren't just buying shoes. You are paying for the expertise of the person who is selling the shoes, making sure they fit properly, and will advise you how to use and not use the shoes.
All of that is built into your $110 pair of shoes.

If all you do is buy accessories at the running store, they are making less than they should, because your shoes are being bought elsewhere.

I freely admit, I have a vested interest in this. I work in running specialty. I want to continue to work. I want running stores to succeed, because they are also more than stores, they are running community centers. The staff in those stores offer advice, training tips, injury screenings with local PTs or doctors, work with medical professionals to make sure their patients are getting good shoes for their needs.

Online is....online. Online won't tell you the difference between an Asics 2170 and an Asics GT-2000(there is a BIG difference).

The sales associate in the store will take an hour or more to make sure you are 100% satisfied with your shoes. That is a live person giving you individual attention for YOU. Let me know know when Zappos does that.

If I have made you think about buying locally more....good. I think there is an advantage to online. I would just make sure if you are dedicated to buying locally, it's a bit more than buying a packet of Gu.

Charlie

Friday Responds

Yesterday I wrote a letter to my dog Friday, asking if there was a way she could go running with me. She has sent a letter I would like to share with you.

Dear Daddy,

You have no idea what my life if like. I wake you up at 6:00am so you can rub my tummy, then I insist you take me out, followed by a treat. Next I wait for you to drink that funny brown water from your handheld bowl, as I wait for food in my bowl.

I have to plan playtime with you before you go to work, then I head upstairs for my 4 hour nap. Later I come downstairs to let Mark know it's time for my next walk. He looks at me kind of funny, because he is playing with the XBox thing, eventually though he takes me for a walk. Of course that is followed by a treat.

Soon I am back upstairs on my....I mean your bed sleeping. When you come home from work, I am SOOOOOOO happy to see you. I want to play, go out side, play some more, have you rub my tummy, and then sit with you on the couch.

As you can see my day is full, and now you want to add running to it? Are you on catnip or something?

Come on.....my energy needs to be saved so I can play with you. Add to that I need my beauty sleep.

No running for me....unless you mean we are going to hunt my arch nemesis - The Bunny! Let's roll then.

In the meantime I need to go back to sleep.

Love,
Friday

Dear Friday

The following is a letter to my dog, Friday.

Dear Friday,

Why can't you run with me. I have friends who wax wonderfully about their faithful companions who run with them. You? Well you act like you want to go for a run. The times we've tried, one of two things happens: you either run a few steps, and then want to smell every smell you encounter, or you run like the wind, look back and mock me.

Is there no middle ground? I know you love to run. I take you to the church nearby and you run in the field like a dog possessed. Is it the leash? Sorry my girl, but I can't let you run free along the road.

We walk just fine. Running is just like walking but the right foot, left foot repeat is faster. Maybe I run with treats and bribe you to run?

Think about it, and let me know how we can do this. All the other cool dogs are running with their parents.

Love,
Daddy

What We Want When We Want It

One of the uglier sides to being in the running specialty field are the people who want what they want, when they want it, and they don't have a problem being ugly about it. Let me note at the start, this is not unique to my business, I see this in life more and more. You know what I'm talking about. You go into a running store, and the associate has taken the time to provide you with expertise, and then you tell him/her that you want the shoe is Emerald Green. Sadly the store doesn't have it in Emerald Green, but if it is available, they offer to order it for you. Then you huff and puff that you need it now, and threaten to go to another store, or go online. I'm sorry....what do you want that poor sales person to do? Pull it out of their butts?

Another issue is the price. Yes, yes, yes....I know we all want a good price for new shoes. I do too. I do think though it is rude, again to throw the internet in the poor sales person's face, and expect them to melt. As a reminder, companies like Zappos do a tremendous amount of volume, and they are able to do magical things because of that volume like make shipping costs disappear, or take 15% off those Asics you love so much.

Your local store is not able to do it. I know there are stores out there that do it, but I can assure you their bottom line is being severely damaged because of wilting in front of you and giving you the price you want. Please don't confuse a retail store for a flea market. It isn't.

Somehow we have become the society of instant gratification. We want, what we want, when we want it. Let me play dad for a moment. Sometimes you don't get what you want now. Sometimes you wait. Sorry to have to pull that on you, but really, be an adult, and suck up the fact that Mick Jagger was right, "You can't always get what you want."

Here is how this plays out in stores around the country. A customer is upset that a store does not have the exactly color they want(that's another issue). The store orders it for them(at no discount to them +shipping), the shoes come in, and 75% of the time, the customer decides they don't want it, and never claim it. Read that last past again - 75% of the time, the customer decides they don't want it, and never claim it. The store eats those costs. You may not care as the consumer, but business owners care.

Sadly I have no solution for this problem. All I can tell you is you don't need a pair of running shoes to magically appear. If you need to wait 7 days for your shoes....so be it. And if you need to use the internet, remember, they don't help the local economy, your neighborhood store does.

Charlie

Ouch!

I have not run for a couple weeks now, mostly because the area between my big and second toe on the left foot hurt. This has happened before, and it happened because I slept a certain way - or so I think. It feels like a nerve pain, and the ache dulls as the day goes on. Still I am afraid to run on it. I also noticed my left IT Band is tight. I wondering if it is connected.

Anyone have any ideas? So tired of being injured.

Charlie

Community First Fox Cities Marathon

As I have written time and time again, the marathon is the most difficult race for me to run. Let me be clear, no distance is easy for my feet, but the marathon provides the ultimate challenge. It tests not just endurance for me, but the how far I can challenge my body.

It is a grueling 6+ hours for me. My emotions range from excitement to agony and back to excitement. I am alone out there on the course, but I depend on support to get me through it. Whether it’s Mark out on the course, or my sister on the phone, I depend on someone to get me through this.

Have I ever had what I call the perfect marathon? Close would be the Monumental Marathon I ran in 2010. I was happy with the course, with the time, and with my friends out there supporting me. Would I have liked a faster day? Who wouldn’t. 

Now I begin to gear up for this year’s marathon challenge. It’s a bigger challenge because, well I am bigger this year. I am not in good shape. Shoddy running schedules, being depressed at times, injuries have plagued me. Still I am gearing up for another go at 26.2 miles. 

I had hoped to run the Shamrock Marathon in March, but in no way was I ready for that. So now I turn to the fall, so I have some time to get my body and mind ready. Mentally I know what I need to do. But I have to plan it out in conjunction with my real life. 

The myth is when  you work for a running store, you run all the time. I have found over time that you actually have less time to run. So that means making a commitment to a training, and hoping your family and loved ones can be patient. 

I’ve decided to run the Community First Fox Cities Marathon in September. I have lots of family there, so I know I will get support along the way. I like the looks of the course. I also like the time of year. 

So there we go. The plan is set....time to begin to build to 26.2

Charlie

Old Friends

The running community is really a community of friends. Sometimes it's people you meet through training programs. Sometimes, it's people you encounter at races. You never know where your friends will come from.

I have many running friends. Some I have yet to meet, but I have known them virtually for over 12 years on The Motley Fool. Other friends I have worked with. Many are the people I train and work with from year to year.

Today has been an old home week. A group of ladies I fit for shoes each year came in today, and it was like I see them every week. Some are kids who I help each track season, and I am watching them go through school, from middle school to high school. Times like this allow me to catch up with these folks, who are always happy to see me, and we talk like old friends. In essence that is who we are - old friends.

This week I was reminded of the generosity of old friends. As readers know I have a boycott of long distance races in Chicago(i.e. RocknRoll and the marathon). One race I enjoy is the Soldier Field 10 Mile, put on by Fleet Feet Sports Chicago(my former employer). If you haven't run this race, you need to. It starts outside Soldier Field, home of Da Bears. You run south along Chicago's lakefront. Finally you finish on the 50 yard line inside Soldier Field. It is well organized, fun race.

I was graciously offered an invitation to run the race this year, in an effort to end my boycott of Chicago races. I happily accepted. Does this mean I will run other Chicago races? I have no plans to, but I will do this one. Who knows, maybe this will be the race to turn things around for me in Chicago?

I will run with running friends throughout the race, along one my favorite places to run - Lake Michigan. A good week, and old friends made it better.

Charlie

Shoe Check

Every now and then I get handed a pair of shoes from someone, and I am asked to tell them if they need new ones just by looking at them. Most times, that is not how I can tell if you need new shoes. Rubber is so durable these days, you would really need to wear a shoe down for me to tell something like that.

Instead I ask a series of questions. How often do you run? Are you in training? Any aches or pains? What is feeling different about the shoes? I stand by my stock answers on shoes. Most shoes are designed to last you 6-8months. NEVER celebrate birthdays with your shoes. The outside of the shoe may not indicate that it's time for new shoes. Most of the breakdown happens within the shoes.

Rubber and foam get compressed, so ask yourself how the cushioning feels in your shoes. Support breaks down within the shoe. Are you feeling that the shoe is not holding you up like it has in the past? What about those aches and pains. That is a sign the shoe is no longer taking the impact, your feet are, and that impact shoots right up your legs.

If there is visible wear, it will be in the heel. Don't mistake this for supination(a foot rolling to the outside). That heel wear indicates where your have initial impact. If you want to look for a wear pattern, look at the heel, and then look at the forefoot. If the wear is on the inner portion of the shoes, you overpronate. If it is on the outside, you supinate. If it is down the middle, you are neutral.

If you still want a running professional to examine your shoes, that's fine. Just a heads up, it isn't always  something easily spotted.

Charlie

A Little Respect

This week I was told something pretty harsh. While I can't go into details, I will say that the way I looked was called into question in terms of the profession I am in. I debated whether or not to talk about it. In the end, I want to say something about how I look. I don't look like a runner. Correction, I don't look like Nick Symmonds, Usain Bolt, Ryan Hall, or any other elite runner. I am, in fact though, a runner, and I look like most runners out there.

When most people go into a running store, I am sure they expect to see track or cross country kids hawking shoes. That just isn't the case. In most running stores you go to, you will see old and young, thin and not so thin, African-American and Caucasian, gay and straight, and whatever combo you can come up with. You aren't going to a running store for what the sales people look like. You are going to a running store for the expertise these people provide.

I do find, after I get asked, "Oh do you run?" I have to let them know my street cred. I list my 4 marathons, my 15 or so half marathons, and the countless 5K and 10Ks I have run, and still run. I find it a bit disrespectful to make assumptions about me. I also find it insulting that we have an image of who we think a runner should be.

Running involves the following - right foot, left foot, repeat. All the elite runners do is right foot, left foot, repeat very quickly. They cover the same course I do. They may train more than I do(in fact I know they do). Some of the elites take EPO, because they are glory hungry and want to cheat, while the rest of us just put in the time to train. The point is, there is no reason to be a snob, and there is every reason to respect the person who is working with you.

Rant over.

Charlie

Sorry? Sorry I Got Caught

I have spoken on the topic of cheating before, but as we have endured Lance Armstrong’s staged confession to doping on Oprah Winfrey’s network, I want to revisit an aspect of cheating few have talked about - the apologies for getting caught. People like Armstrong, Marion Jones, Floyd Landis, and many others who have used the public stage to apologize have not really told us that they are sorry they cheated. Sure, they talk about how sorry they are IF they hurt people, or IF their fans have been let down. Let me be clear....they are sorry they got caught. They’re sorry they won’t be earning their millions(or in some cases paying back millions). They’re sorry they have titles stripped and medals returned. They’re sorry their glories are gone. That’s not the same as being sorry for doping and cheating.

There is doping in the running world and we know it. While it may be more prevalent in track and field, I’m sure there is a certain amount of cheating in the long distance road racing. While I long suspected Lance Armstrong used drugs, I have also suspected Usain Bolt of doping. I have no proof of this, but in the age of hyped up performances, one has to wonder if those amazing performances in Beijing and London were truly the result of hard work and training.

I have no doubt the current crop of cheaters watched Armstrong’s interview, just as Armstrong watched past cheaters’ interviews. I imagine what went through their minds wasn’t, “Man I need to stop this now, look what can happen.” No, more than likely their thoughts were, “They won’t get me.” Cheaters think they’re smart, but they are incredibly stupid. 

Some sports heroes get caught up in the fame and money their achievements bring. They crave it. It’s like power, and they’re power hungry. They’ll do whatever they can to get it. Once caught though, you never hear them say, “I’m sorry I did this.” Nope, there is usually an IF in the apology. That is what I have always said is the non-apology apology. It sounds like remorse, but it isn’t. 

I have no doubt when Armstrong told his son he cheated that was hard for him. Still though the lie continues, because he has not fully disclosed the extent of the doping and that he is sorry he did it. On the contrary, his excuse was the old, “How is it cheating if everyone does it?” He’s sorry .... he’s just sorry he got caught.

Charlie

Big Runner Shoe Myth

There is a line of thought out there that if you are a big runner(usually a man), you need the biggest most stable shoes. This is not correct. There is no such thing for larger runners. True, bigger runners will want shoes with more cushion, I have to go back to the basics. You need to be properly fit for shoes.

I am larger runner, and I wear the Brooks Dyad. The shoe is a borderline neutral/very mild stability shoe. It has plenty of cushion for me. I speak with runners though who feel they need to be in a shoe like the Brooks Beast, because someone sold them on the big runner myth.

The way to see if a shoe like that works for you is to have your gait analyzed. If you have extreme over-pronation, and you are a larger runner, then, and only then would I recommend the shoe. Don't suckered by "Dude at the Major Sports Store" who doesn't know gait from gate. He is doing what he can to sell you an expensive shoe, and make his manager happy.

As always, if you are in a stability shoe, and you don't need it, you risk injury.

Charlie

Where Do Shoes Come From?

Contrary to popular belief there aren't shoe elves who make running shoes. Every now and then though, I get asked, "Where was this shoe made?" Typically, it is being asked by a very earnest American, who wants to buy American. My usual answer is China.

People who are anti-Nike tend to talk to me about not buying Nike, because of their labor practices overseas. Here's the deal, and you aren't going to like what I am about to tell you. If you are boycotting Nike for that, then put down your Asics, Brooks, Saucony, Mizuno and most any other major running shoe, because the plant where that Nike Pegasus is being made, is the same one where that Asics Kayano is being made. Manufacturing plants deal with all the brands, and they have workers who work on specific brands, but from one conveyer belt to the next, those shoes are all being made in the same building.

If you want an American running shoe, your options are limited to New Balance. Word of caution though, not all New Balance shoes are made in the US. Less than 50% are made in the US. If you want an American shoes, read the label. It will tell you one of three things:

1) Made in the USA
2) Parts assembled in the USA
3) Made in China

The second item on the list means the parts of the shoe are made in China, but workers in the US assembled it in the USA. This means New Balance can market the Made in the USA without really lying about it. Marketing is a tricky thing.

So the next time you want to pick on Nike for their labor policies, make sure you are holding the other companies to the same standard.

Charlie

It's Spring!

No, it isn't Spring. Today is January 12, 2013. It was a balmy 60F when I headed out for my run. No trace of the snow we had at the start of the week. Just warm and a bit of a breeze.

Today I headed to Westfield. I ran through Cook Creek Park, along Cool Creek, then along the Natalie Wheeler Trail. Overall it was a 4.37 mile run. This was my longest run in quite some time, and I felt good. My pace was 14:25, which isn't speed, but for the shape I'm in, I'll take.

No one was out running. I thought that odd. Maybe everyone headed out early this morning. Still I enjoyed this route. It's rolly. Once you get out of the park, it's trees and farmland. Very pleasant for running, and I took in the view.

This was run was good for two reasons. First I was able to clear some of the muck in my head. Second, I thought about some fun run ideas I would like to consider for work. I am always trying to come up with some fun run ideas.

While I joked it felt like Spring. I worried if flowers thought it was time to pop up. I know winter isn't done, so I want the flowers to stay below.

All in all a good run. Wish I could have a few more like it this coming week.

Charlie

Running For Myself

Last night I was talking to a group of people who are interested in running for a charity. This is fairly common in long distance races. As you all know, I have raised money in the past for charities. At one point I was asked I was doing any charity running this year.

For the last two years I have run for charities, and raised over $2000. This year, my running is just for me, and I think that is fine. I am doing this for two reasons. First, I want my focus to be on my running, and not the cause I am running for. Raising money while training takes time. It's totally doable, but it takes time, especially if you have a large goal. Second, I think if we are always running for charity, our friends, co-workers and family go through giving fatigue. Remember, we runners aren't the only ones trying to raise money. There are all kinds of groups out there vying for donations. If you're like me, you get a lot of requests for this cause or that cause. After a while, I think we get a bit fatigued with it.

I noticed my inbox was full every day during the month of December of charities all asking for money. Your head spins with all the need out there. You either give some to several, a lot to one, or you think, not this year. I can't be one of many this year, so 2013 is about my running, and my improvements and training.

Charlie

Change Begins With Me

For the better part of two years I have been depressed. The depression comes from many situational things going on in my life. As you might expect, I have eaten my way through it, and am heavier now than I have been in a long time. I need to make changes, and I can't wait for the world to change, so the change begins with me.

I got out and ran today. 3 miles on the Monon. It is sooooo much better to run outdoors than on the dreadmill. You feel better. You feel you are part of life. You say hello to people.

On the treadmill, I look at a wall, watch TV, or listen to the iPod. Zzzzzzzzz.

Winter is a tough time to get out and run, but the snow on the trail was melted, so off I went. The 3 miles was a respectable 14:25 pace. So I don't feel I have lost too much. My schedule makes it difficult to plan runs in advance, but it helps if I am not scheduled to work until later in the day. I can't run after work.

So the changes I want to make start with me.....snacks are limited. Meals have to be healthier, and not so late. I have to make a better effort to get out there and run.

The situations I have some control over. They are though what they are. I can still make better choices in how I deal with them. I appreciate the support I get from all of you....it helps a great deal.

Charlie

Forming a New Plan

Now that the Shamrock is scrapped, I need to form a new plan. What I want to do is spend the winter and spring building and doing some smaller races. I think a 10K is a good distance for me to work on.

As I get closer to summer, I would then look at a half marathon to see how I am set for the longer distances. Slowly building time and distance will be the key to a successful marathon. Looking in the Sept.-Nov. time frame for a marathon. I know I won't do Chicago, as I have banned races in the Windy City from my routine.

I don't have a race in mind, but I think I have some time to plan that. I know the key is a slow build.

Part of the fun now is figuring out which races to do. I actually enjoy going to race websites and look things over. I check out course maps, elevation maps...is there a medal? Shirts I don't care about, but the bling is a key component.

What races are you all working towards?

Charlie

Resigned to No Race

After a day of disappointment, I did a 30 minute workout last night, which helped clear my head. It is disappointing to pull the plug on a race. I know it's the right thing, it was just the difficult thing to do.

Still I looked for a bright side. Now I can enter those smaller Spring races and not worry about a marathon. I could do the Holy 10K again, or the Carmel 8K. I know I don't want to do a half quite yet.

The workout last night got be sweating, and that isn't something I have done a lot of. The gym in my complex has two treadmills and an elliptical. I did a combo of both. No running. I did a brisk walk on an incline of the treadmill. Felt good.

In addition to running and working out more, I need to watch what I eat. The depression I have had for the last year or so has taken its toll. My goal for the year is to tackle things in a healthier manner. So far, I am pleased with myself. 5 days in, and I am hanging in there.

Looking forward to a run tomorrow.

Charlie

Hard Decision

UPDATE - Half Marathon is full, so I need to come up with a new plan. I can defer until next year, so I am thinking about that.

No runner likes to make this decision, but there are times you have to pull the trigger, so I am pulling the trigger today. March 17 is right around the corner, and I am not even close to being ready for a 26.2 race. In the over two months until the race, I know I can't be ready.

So I have decided to switch the the half marathon. I can be ready for that in 2.5 months. In the meantime I will figure a fall marathon, and really take the year to get ready. I am very depressed about this, but I would rather do this, then fail at a spring marathon.

Arrrgh!

Charlie

Editor's Correction for Steve

It has been brought to the attention of the editor, that there was a glaring oversight in a previous post. In the posting thanking people I have worked with, one name was not included. In any posting such as that, you risk the possibility of oversight, but in this case, there does need to be a correction.

If you are not familiar with the name Steve Santer, then allow me to introduce you to him. Steve hails from an enchanted land called - Mich-ee-gahn. We know it as Michigan. He moved to the rural state of Indiana a short time ago, and is an amazing runner*. Previously he worked for Playmakers, and now espouses running advice at BlueMile in Indianapolis.

He is co-creator of Good Form Running, which is a wonderful approach to the minimal running philosophy. He can usually be seen running in the Broad Ripple area. Sometimes I am told, he runs with a dog.

So why do I need to thank him? In the insanity that can be running specialty, he is a voice of reason, calm, and good old fashioned liberal attitudes. No one I know can toss terms like, gait analysis, medial posting, and Ann Coulter is an idiot, all in one phrase, but Steve can.

He and his bride to be, Lizzie are delightful people, despite the fact they aren't Notre Dame fans.

Steve thank you for being a fun part of my running career.

Charlie

*Editor's note - no one has been able to verify this fact, but we will assume. We do know he is DANGEROUS Wall Climber.

2013 Looking Ahead

I am ending the year answering all important running questions like, "What is the best shoe?" Of course there is no such thing. That's like asking, "What's the best song in the world?" No definitive answer. I much prefer questions like, "What are your running goals for 2013?"

Why thanks for asking. My goal is to finish my marathon, and be strong doing it. Training is always hard for me to do. Despite working in the running industry, it is very difficult to fine time to get training runs in. That is one goal though. The other is to do some smaller races. Mark thinks I should find some nice 10Ks to do. I imagine I will run some.

I also want to explore some running topics of interest to me, that I want to share with all of you.

As we head into the new year, I wish you all good health, strong running, and enjoy life.

Happy New Year everyone!

Charlie

Top News Stories of 2012

Runner's World has listed the Paul Ryan did he or did not not run a sub 3 marathon as the top story of the year. As you remember, Rep. Ryan lied about his marathon running in an interview....oops, sorry I meant he mis-remembered his marathon time. The story was one of many missteps by the Romney campaign this year.

I thought about it some, and I agree it probably was one of the top stories, because it really brought to attention how important time in a marathon is to runners. I was upset that he lied, because I just know runners now down to the millisecond what they run in races, and this lie belittled what we do.

I think the top story of the year was the NYC Marathon/Hurricane Sandy story. The running world and non-running world seemed to be divided whether or not the race should go on. I fell on the side of, it should not go one. What came out of this story was the generosity of the runners present to go do some good in the areas hardest hit by the hurricane.

This reflected the best in running, and that we are more than just running for PRs. It should be noted though, the initial decision to run the race was a terrible one(IMHO). It should a certain amount of greed and shallowness on the part of the NYRR. Yes, I know, the city needs to show it is resilient, but not while people are without power, shelter or food.

At the end of the year, there is a titillating story of former Olympian Suzy Favor Hamilton's past as a paid escort. While this won't be a reflection on the sport, it worries me that a runner of her ability felt she had to do work like that.

The most uplifting story has to be the London Olympics. Mo Farrah's amazing 5000 and 10000 double, Usain Bolt again proving he is the fastest man ever, Meb coming form way back to almost get Bronze in the marathon. So many amazing performances.

2012 was a fascinating year for the running world, and I am hoping 2013 is even better.

Charlie

2012: The Year in Review

As 2012 winds down, as many people do, I am looking back on my year in running. As always there are some highs and some lows.

The Treasured Moment of the Year - Running with Pennsy in the Monumental. This is a man who I have known for about a decade in the virtual world. He has battled weight loss, Cancer and depression. Through running, he has discovered a joy and a sense of purpose, much as I have. We finally met and ran the Indianapolis Monumental Half Marathon. It was a good race made better by running with the delightful Pennsy. My only regret is that Mrs. P couldn't make the trip.

The Discovery of the Year - I can run, and put together a running plan. I had felt over the last two years my running was blah. I rediscovered the joy in running, and put together a plan which saw me through my half marathons.

The Product of the Year - Brooks Dayd 7. Lord knows I have the New Balance a try, but their heel collapsed and was in some pain in those shoes. The new Dyad has turned out to be a great shoe for me.

The Worst Race Experience EVER - I have run races I didn't care for. I have run races which were poorly managed. Nothing prepared me for the Rock n Roll Chicago Half Marathon this year. You all figured this would be listed in a year end report right? What a mess. Stopping the race at Mile 10, and violating their own rules, and then not owning up to their mistake, then finding out they do this on a regular basis. I don't and won't recommend a Rock n Roll series race.

The Most Interesting Race  of the Year - Mo' Cowbell Half Marathon. This is a great race, well organized. Good volunteers, great medal, and of course the cowbells. Would be great to see more crowd support. I'm still curious what the reason of running through a family farm was....there were no cows around.

The Race of the Year - Holy 10K. If you ever have the opportunity to run the 10K or the half marathon....do it. The course winds through the University of Notre Dame. The students are upbeat and very helpful. This student run race is typical of most activities organized on campus - well organized, and a lot of fun. The campus is stunning, especially running along the lakes. I wish I had run the half, but that will be for another time.

Looking ahead.....marathon time. March 17 I will run the Shamrock Marathon. Running has not gone well this last month as I am working through an IT Band issue, but I will do my best to be ready. Will talk more about 2013 goals in the next week.

Charlie

Six Years

It was six years ago today I started working for Fleet Feet Sports, and a career in running specialty began. I had been trapped in a job at Macy's(formerly Marshall Field's), and the chance to work in the sport I loved came along. I didn't even give two weeks notice at Macy's. "You won't be eligible for re-hire," said the HR shrew. Oh well....there are some bridges you can burn in life.

It's not just selling shoes in this business. It's about fostering community. It's about sharing your goals and hopes with other like minded people. Through this community I have met people I never would have met. I have made incredible friends. I have encountered some of my idols.

I am always grateful to Dave Zimmer for hiring me, and getting me started on this path. My gratitude extends to Bob Kennedy and Ashley Johnson who gave me the opportunity to show what I could do in this field. I would like to thank Sarah Cathcart, Jeremy Schapiro for being such good mentors. I want to thank my first family at Fleet Feet Sports Chicago(the Lincoln Square crew) for being so supportive. I want to thank my current crew of Gary, Melissa, Angela, Angie, Greg, Brandon, Hunter and Denise for being the best group I could imagine managing. Thanks to Janet for always being the supportive cheerleader.

The best part of this career has been, I have been able to walk in every day and like everyone I have worked with(or at least 99.99999% of of the people I have worked with). Not too many people can say that.

The next six years? I swear if I can combine coffee and running, that will be what the future is. For now, I am very glad to be where I am.

Happy Anniversary!

Charlie

Shoes for Christmas

This is the time of year people go to a running store, because they have someone in their lives who runs. This could be a dad, aunt, favorite sibling, co-worker, anyone who runs. When they walk into a running store, they think they want to get this runner shoes for Christmas. This is great IF they know which shoe, or type of shoe their runner wears. If they don't I don't recommend buying shoes, just so the runner has a shoe box to open on Christmas Morning.

I probably just ruined someone's great idea for Christmas. Don't get me wrong, I think getting the runner in your life shoes is great. I just want you to know what you are getting. In the past I have talked about getting properly fitted shoes. If you walk into a store, and buy a cool looking shoe, without knowing if it works for the runner, I can assure you those shoes are coming back.

Some running stores have reward or frequent shopper programs. They may have an account of the shoes they wear, or at least can guide you to the stability category of shoes. Of course you could always ask your runner, but then they get a heads up on the gift. Maybe someone who knows the runner's running habits can give you a heads up on the shoes?

Don't assume when it comes to shoes. Also, be open to other gift ideas. I have mentioned socks. Runners LOVE socks. Maybe a running top? Hat? Water bottle? Gift card? There are a lot of options.

Running store employees have a ton of information, and are more than happy to help you with gift ideas for your runner. Use them, they are the experts.

Charlie

A Simple 5K

Today I headed out to run a simple 5K. I headed out on the trail on my own, just running along. I saw the leave-less trees.  I saw the occasional person go by. I crossed a creek, and saw the water flowing. All of that was on the outside of my head.

On the inside of my head, I wondered about where life is taking me. I thought about the struggles other couples or families go through when dealing with Epilepsy. I worried about friends and family who have suffered recently. I thought about how to get through another month of bills.

The outside seems so simple, the inside is where the complexities take place. That's ok though. If all that crap was happening outside of my head during a run, I probably wouldn't want to run. The running on the trail eventually brought me peace - after I got all the stuff out of my head.

One thing I miss is time to myself. So I truly enjoy my runs, because that is my time. I can be alone with the good and the troubling thoughts. I can think through things. I can ponder on the meaning of life. So while today it felt all messed up inside, the run helped me cope and just have ME time.

Just a simple 5K.

Charlie

With Age Comes.....

Yesterday I had the pleasure of speaking to a senior citizens group about getting a properly fitting shoe for being active. I love talking to groups, and this was my first time talking to senior citizens.....or as I call them, "my peeps." Now you may wonder how active these folks are. One gentleman told me he is 87, runs the "Mini" every year. That's pretty active to be 87 and running a half marathon.

What I liked was the attitude of the group. These folks don't just sit and watch life go by. They have aqua aerobics, a walking program, a weight room, nutrition classes. These folks get it. Several came and spoke to me after my talk. One gentleman, 92, told me he needed a new hip, but his doctor told him he was told old to get one. He was sad as he told me he could do more if he had the hip. I'm not a doctor nor do I play one on TV, but who knows, maybe the new hip would help?

The point is, age doesn't mean we just sit and wait for the grim reaper. We live. I wish some younger folks could have been in the room with me, and I am talking to those folks who would only go for a run if they were being chased....and even then I'm not sure they would run.

With age comes a sense of priorities....staying active is a way to enhance you later your years. Get off the couch!

Charlie

Hi Charlie

When I lived in Chicago, I would be stopped on my runs from time to time by people wanting to talk shoes with me. I'll be honest, I didn't like that, because my running is my own time. Talking shoes is when I am at work. I was never rude to anyone though, and I would talk to them.

When I run on the Monon, I increasingly encounter people I help who run by me, pass me, or just spot me running. Now I get, "Hi Charlie" quite a bit. No one talks shoes with me(thanks). They are just being friendly and saying howdy. At most I get, "Are you training for anything?"

This is what I like about runners. We are a friendly group of people, and encourage each other. Yesterday at the end of a run, I encountered a high school student I help frequently. He saw me in the distance, met up with me, and just wanted to talk running. It's cool. He's training for a tri.

Running is part sport, and part community. I think that is what I like most about it.

Charlie

What to Get That Runner

This is the time of year people ask me what should they get the runner in their lives for Christmas. There is so much out there. I am going to cover some basics.

1) Socks - I know, I know, when grandma gave you socks as a kid, you thought it was the dumbest thing in the world to get. Now that you run marathons, you appreciate a nice technical sock, with no cotton, which will help reduce the chance of blisters. Runners love socks.

2) Runner's World Subscription - While the more seasoned runner might not like it, the average runner like you and I love this magazine. It has lots of great info, tips, stories. Just ignore the shoe guides.

3) Gloves and a Hat - This time of year you need to keep your head and extremities warm.

4) GPS - I put this on this list, but I do so with a warning....really figure out what your runner needs, not what you think they want. If all they want is a basic speed and distance GPS, get it. Don't get the GPS with all the bells and whistles. If they only need one bell, don't buy them the bell choir.

5) Gift Cards - I can hear some of you scream, "But Charlie, I want them to open something." Well a gift card to your local running store is a terrific gift, because it gives the runner the chance to get what they really need. Put the card in a box, or maybe toss it in with the socks you bought them.

So there you have a small list of basics....what? What did I forget? Shoes? Oh no, I didn't forget shoes, I don't put it on the list, because unless you know exactly which shoes the runner wears, don't jut go buy a pair of shoes for them. 99.999% of the time they return those shoes. Do this instead.... get them the gift card for the price of a pair of shoes (avg. $110), take them to the running store, and really make a fun time of it. Have them get their gait analyzed, or re-checked. Afterwards take your runner out to lunch. Now there's a nice gift.

If you have specific questions....ask.

Happy shopping.

Charlie

World AIDS Day 2012

Today I went for a 4 mile run. My thoughts were on World AIDS Day, and the many lives the horrible disease has affected. As readers know I endured a period where I was diagnosed as HIV+. For two years I had time to think about life, what it meant to me, and how I should live. The discovery that I wasn't HIV+, was a blessing, and the ordeal I went through made me the person I am today.

When my friend Dave Wagle died of AIDS related causes, there was a void in my life. My childhood friend, who always challenged me in singing, must have gone through the same kind of realizations as he dealt with his illness. When you are dying, or believe you are dying, you not only get your priorities, straight, but you find you who the true loves are in your life.

For those not old enough to remember, having AIDS in the 1980s and 90s was a death sentence, and there was a huge stigma, more so than there is today. I made a point of spending time with Dave. I noticed few people would visit him. He told me many of his friends were positive, and they didn't want to see what would happen to them. I could never wrap my head around that at the time. This was my friend, and it didn't matter to me what he had, he was sick, and he needed a friend.

I miss Dave. I miss his pretentiousness, his humor, his smile but most of all his friendship. I have dedicated every writing I have done on this day to him. I know he is watching me from Heaven, and smiling down.

My run was a quiet time for me to think about where we have been with AIDS, and how different the disease is now. Still AIDS kills people, and we need to work just as hard today as we did then to defeat it.

Charlie

Well Hello

It's been a while, but I am back, and I am back running. This week I took my first steps back into running. I wanted to wait until my knee had at least five days without any pain or tweaking. My last three runs have been short and slow, but glad to be out there. 2, 2.5 and 3.1 mile runs. Clearly nothing too major, but when coming back from an injury you don't want to do anything to risk re-injury.

Today's run was the best of the three. I ran without a watch, and just ran. I enjoyed the run. It gave me time to take it easy, focus on my body while I ran, and didn't worry about my pace. The sun was out, but it was darned chilly out there. Yup....it sure isn't Summer.

So how am I set for marathon training? Being out of running for 3 weeks is a set back, but I also know I can't make it all up in a week. I will still be taking some time, and slowly building my miles and time.

In hindsight, I think I really got injured for doing back to back half marathons. The goal of 4 half marathons this year really needed to be spaced out better. I swear I don't know how people do long distance races so regularly. They must be blessed with amazing bodies.

For now...I'm back and running. Happy to be back.

Charlie

Recovering

I apologize for the lack of writing. My running has been non-existant since the half marathon, due to an injury. Ironically I didn't get injured at the race. It was later that evening at dinner. I got up out of a chair and twisted my knee a bit. It has been sore since.

I'm not a person who likes to stay inactive, but I realized my knee needs some time to heal. It is much better, but I am not quite ready run. Maybe in the next day or so. Once I do run, I will do my 5K for Marathon Kids. This is why you have not heard a report from me on that front.

I have been on vacation this week, so it's been a bit easier to not be doing things which might bother my knee. Of course with vacation comes more eating. I was in Wisconsin, land of cheese and beer. I am getting back into the groove though. Birthday is over, so no more parties.

Haven't decided on a Thanksgiving Day race. I'm not doing the Drumstick Dash this year. I may just run on my own. Might be a nice change of pace.

In the meantime, I hope all of you are well, and your running is going along smoothly.

Charlie

In My 50th Year

The countdown has finished, today I am 50.  Who knew that 50 years ago this little baby.....

would go on an incredible life journey. As I have talked about over the last few weeks, I have had incredible highs, and some horrible lows. I have had moments of pure happiness....

and I have moments where I didn't know if I would live. I have seen incredible things from Paris to Hong Kong, and all points in between. I have performed on the stage at Second City. I have known heartache, and I have known great love.

I have been lucky to have parents who loved me.....

And a sister who is a joy....

I have been an actor, a world traveler, a friend, a son, a brother, a loving partner, a runner and so much more, and that is just the first 50 years. I know I will have more adventures, more love, more ups and more downs. I don't know what the next 50 years will be like, but if they are like the first 50, then it will be quite a ride.

Charlie

The Weekend

Mark, Friday and I are in Wisconsin to celebrate year number 50! We got here Friday afternoon, and have spent a wonderful weekend with my cousins, my sister and youngest niece. Good times, good food, and one spoiled dog. Friday is loving all the attention of everyone.  I love spending time with family. I haven't been up here in a few years, so I am appreciating being with everyone.

Tonight is the big birthday dinner with most everyone. Tomorrow I will try to run my 5K. I have had a bad knee since last weekend, so no running. There is still tine to donate to my campaign for Marathon Kids.

http://www.crowdrise.com/CharliesTurning50

The goal is to raise $1000, but I may come up short.

Will detail the big day, my thoughts and the run tomorrow.

Charlie

Countdown to 50: Loss and Living

Today is a sad day in my family. On this day, fifteen years ago we lost my mom. Those who know me, and those who have read this blog regularly know what a painful loss that has been for me. You also know we lost my brother David in 1968. Loss and dealing with it change a family. Nothing is ever the same when you lose the people you love. How you cope is what defines you from that moment on.

In the case of my mom, I have thought back over and over again all the lessons she tried to teach me. Some of the lessons were involved incredible a ha moments. Others were more painful. Nancy Colpaert was an intelligent woman, full of grace and love. She was a determined woman who could have achieved things in life that few women had tried in her day.

She lived through the depression, which I believe gave her strength. She served her country. While she might not have talked much about her service, she served when women volunteered, and men were drafted. Through this I learned the value of service to others.

She and my dad traveled the world, and as I mentioned in another post, she taught me that this was my world, and I needed to discover it. She encouraged dreams. When I wanted to be an actor, she bucked conventional wisdom(a.k.a. Dad), and told me to pursue it. I learned the importance of being loyal through her.

I believe my love of coffee came from her. That woman could make a cup of coffee that would get up, walk over to you, slap you in the face and tell you to get your butt in gear. When she would come back from a trip, one of the criteria for whether a trip was a good one or not, was how good was the coffee. Sorry China - epic fail!

The death of my brother taught me different lessons. I learned that sometimes families don't know how to cope with loss. I learned when one is taken away at such a young age, there is a void which is never quite filled.  From David though, I learned about fun, joy, competition, and how you need to take the time to share things with children.

David died at 16. I was 5. At a point in his life when he could have pushed away a younger brother to spend time with friends, he made time for me. My best memories are of him putting me on his shoulders, and I would have to duck as we would go from room to room. David was over 6'5" tall.

His death changed my family in a negative way. Mom's death changed me for the better. Loss means we have to learn how to live with the change. It means we have to think about what we learned from our loved ones, and hopefully put the best lessons in place. It isn't easy. Death has a way to swallow people and consume them. That isn't what our loved ones want. They want us to thrive and live, not live in sadness.

Each time I run, I take a few moments to think about my mom and brother, and privately ask them to come along with me as I take my journey that day. I miss them every day, but I believe they are with me in some form with every step I take.

I love you mom and David.

Charlie

The Body is Ok

Usually after a race there is quite a bit of pain. Ironically the pain I am feel wasn't race related. Remember on race day my issue was the arthritis in my feet were bothering. The walk to the car was a long and painful walk. I did my usual Frankenstein walk. Ugh.

The pain I suffered happened later that night at dinner. I got up funny from a chair I was sitting in. I stood up too fast, and began to turn to the right quickly, and I tweaked my knee. Now that has been painful for a couple of days. The rest of my body - nothing.

In fact the day after the race the only thing hurting was that knee. This has confused me as normally I would have some pain somewhere. This time relatively pain free. I did wear compression socks the next day, but my legs and feet were already pretty good. So what happened?

I am thinking it was the intervals Bob and I did. I wonder if running 1 minute and walking 1 minute made less of an impact on my feet, thereby not causing as much pain? Anyone with more science knowledge want to weigh in on that?

Now I wait for me knee to heal. It is more stiff than painful this morning, and that's a good sign.

Charlie

Lessons Learned From The Monumental

As with any race there are lessons we take. The Monumental Weekend was no exception.

1) A kitchen timer helps. Bob and I agreed to varying intervals during the race, and he had a timer to let us know when to run and when to walk. I found that beep helped, and I looked at my watch less. I will have to look into getting one for future races.

2) Cold and wet weather means the arthritis bothers me in the feet. The rest of my body felt fine, but my feet hurt in the places where the Arthritis lives. Normally I am sore at the end, that kind of soreness kicked in much earlier, and got worse when the sleet came down.

3) It's tough to do back to back races in a month. How do these race everyday/week/month people do it?

4) No where near ready for a marathon.

5) I need more longer runs in my routine. In looking at the Garmin, my pace was spot on for the first 6-7 miles - typical of my average run. Now I need to develop more longer runs.

6) Again I enjoy the Monumental. Great support. Great course. No chicken broth, but happy for the Jimmy Johns at the end.

7) The value of friends. Getting to meet Bob after all these years was a joy. We met the day before the race, and had coffee(of course). I can only compare this to when pen pals meet. They are meeting, yet they have known each other. We talked off and on during our 13.1 mile journey, though not anywhere near as much as some people we encountered, and we got to know each other even better. One thing which touched me a great deal. On Friday Bob gave me an early birthday present. I wasn't expecting anything, but when I opened it I was touched. He gave me a copy of John Steinbeck's "Travels With Charley." I loved this book as a boy. It was one of my favorite reads. Bob's wife Martha had drawn a cute cartoon which made me smile. Never underestimate the value of your friendships. These are the people who see you through the good and the bad. Bob got me through 13.1 miles, and cemented a friendship all a the same time.

8) Use caution when getting up from the table. After the race, Mark and I had dinner with our friends Kris and Mike and their family. At one point I got up from the table, twisted my knee, and have been in a lot of pain since. Ironically the rest of my body doesn't hurt. This will take a few days to heal. I have done this before. It's a nasty pain, and people think I need a walker. I don't.

9) What's next? If my knee will allow it I will run my birthday 5K one week from today. As for half #4, I an reconsidering that. I will work on getting to that point, but not sure if my body can do another half in a month's time again. We'll see.

10) No real lesson here - I love running.

Charlie

Monumental Marathon: Running with Pennsy to Cheers of "Go Irish"

A cold cloudy morning greeted runners in Indianapolis at the Monumental Marathon and Half Marathon. The chilly temps hovered around 30 degrees at the start of the race. Today was a treat as I was joined by my friend Bob, or as he is known in the virtual world - Pennsy. I have known Bob for over a decade via The Motley Fool/Facebook, but we have never met. He lives down in Kentucky, not far. Still we have never met until this weekend.

Bob, Mark and I gathered pre-dawn and walked from the City Market to the start line. We did make a detour and got warm in a hotel lobby(Thank you Westin). After a couple of pictures taken, Bob and I headed to the start area.

There weren't any signs up to say where the pace corrals were. So we took our chances and picked what we thought was the middle. Truth be told, it was probably the 10:00-11:00 min/mile pace group. No worries. If people zipped past us it didn't matter.

The race started with little fanfare(lack of good sound equipment). We were off. Bob and I had a plan, and a timer. We would run 5 minutes and walk 1 minute. As the race got into the later stages we would make some changes. Not much talking at the start of the race - we were about the business of getting it done.

The race went well in these early stages. Timer would go off, we would run. Timer would go off we would walk. We were on pace for the first 4 miles for a 3:15 finish. We were loose and running easy. The chats we had were about what other people were wearing. There were running kilts, tutus, sequined skirts, and the women wore.....just kidding. There was also some guy wearing a Notre Dame shirt. Oddly enough this guy drew quite a bit of cheers from the crowd of, "Go Irish!"

As the race went on, Bob suggested we go to a 4/1 interval. I was fine with that as I was slowing down some. Bob was ahead by a bit, but on our walk breaks I would be up with him, and we chatted about life, running, and how cold we were. Bob had cold hands, even with gloves. I was gloveless and was fine until later in the race.

The cold was affecting my feet. I was stiff early in my ankles and feet. Arthritis is a nasty thing. Add insult to injury, the later the race went, a snowy rain started. Now my feet were really hurting. It affected how I ran. I made smaller steps, as the road felt slick. One guy from the crowd yelled I might be faster if I took larger steps. Bob pointed out he could probably run if he lost 200 lbs.

Around mile 7 or 8 the decision was made to go 1/1 intervals. I was happy with that. My feet were hurting, and the walking was better for me. Meanwhile, we were enjoying the city. Bob and I talked about the cool houses we were seeing, the interesting architecture, and the people out to cheer us on. There were lots of high school kids volunteering and cheering. They did a great job, and we let them know it.

At mile 12 all I wanted was the finish line. Bob was so good to keep me going. He was nothing but encouraging. The last few miles we were running with the marathoners. So it was great to see how they were doing.

As we neared about a 1/2 mile, I turned to Bob, and asked him if he was ready to finish this. He was, and we pushed on. The crowds were larger. The cheers of "Go Irish!" were more frequent, and very encouraging. Bob and I hung with each other every step of the way. As we rounded the final corner, we could see the finish line. Before crossing it, Bob reached his hand out, and we crossed the line together hands clasped. Mark was beaming when he met up with us. All was good.

Running with Bob was an absolute joy. When I needed encouragement, he was there. He didn't leave me in the dust. He said we would run together and we did. It may not have been the fastest race either of us every had, but it was a darned good time. Proud to have Bob as my friend, and I would run a race with him any time. I have been invited to Kentucky to run a race with him. I told him he would need to eliminate some hills in his area. Evidently that is not an easy thing to do.

The final time was 3:32:29. Not zippy, but with the pain I was in, I will take it. A good day in Indy!

Charlie

The Road to Virginia Beach Begins

Yesterday, November 1 was the beginning of my training for the Shamrock Marathon., my 2013 marathon.

http://www.shamrockmarathon.com

The start of training is always exciting, because you don't know what the adventure will be. Oh sure, you know the end result is 26.2 miles, but the exciting part is what are you going to learn about yourself, not only during the training, but through the whole experience.

I already know what needs to be done. I just need to do it. The challenge for me will be running through the winter. I am not a snow and ice guy, so this will be a bit tricky for me. Still I am confident I can get the miles in.

The race promises to be fun. Looks like a few of my Motley Fool friends will be running it as well. The Motley Fool has been part of my life for 12 years.

www.fool.com

Yes, it is a financial website, but it is such an amazing community of people. I learn something everyday from the people I encounter on that site. Disclosure....I am a former TMF employee.

So now the new journey starts. It began with a 4 mile run, will continue with two half marathons, and will end along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Let's get running!

Charlie

Monumental Weekend

The packet has been picked up. The last run has been done. Now all I do is run the race Saturday morning. Yes, it's time for the Monumental Half Marathon. This is half #3 this year. I feel pretty good, despite the lack of serious running since the Cowbell.

I am not alone in this race. Pennsy will be running with me. I have shared his story before. I am glad to finally meet my virtual friend this weekend. The race should be an adventure.

The plan....well the plan is to finish, and if I can do 3:15 I will be happy. The weather is forecast to be cold and a possible shower. Yippie! Rain, my running arch nemesis. We will see how it all plays out.

I have run this race previously. I have run the full marathon. Still one of my favorite races, and my marathon PR. The half I ran with Mark last year, but was not able to finish. This year I will finish.

Tomorrow people will come into the store for last minute items and advice. My best advice is dress in layers, prepare for the weather, and trust the training.

Charlie