Indianapolis Monumental Marathon

Today was the day I trained so hard and long for. It was a clear and chilly morning in Indianapolis. Temps were in the upper 40s. I was ready for this race. I signed up with a pace group. Due to limited option, I chose the 5:30 group, though I knew I would be slower than that.

Mark and my friends Kris and Mike and their kids were the support group. I gave Mark a quick kiss before I got to my start corral, and waited for the race the begin. At 8:00 a.m., the horn blared, and we were off. The first mile takes your around downtown, and soon you are heading north. Having lived in Indianapolis many years ago, I was eager to see the city. It had changed a lot, but I really liked the changes.

There was little crowd support for this 2nd annual event, so I used the IPod. I was glad I did. The neighborhoods were nice, but one word to the homeowner at mile 9 who was BBQing - stop making runners HUNGRY! I met the crew at mile 5. The kids had a sign cheering on "Uncle Charlie." It was so sweet and I was very touched. The next goal was to meet them at mile 10.

I was feeling very good at this point. I did not go out fast at all, so I felt strong and good. The only thing worrying me was the temps were getting hotter. By the end of the race, it was in the mid to upper 60s. Off I ran towards mile 10.

Mark let me know they were caught in traffic and having problems getting to the meeting spot. This did mess with my head a bit, because I used my NUUN and Gu. My mind was trying to figure it all out. Close to mile 11, a voice - "Charlie how are you doing?" It was Jon Cook the Puma rep I know. He was on a bike following runners as Puma was the shoe sponsor for the race. I told him what happened, and he was on it. He got my a bottle of Gatorade and a Power Bar. I am forever grateful for that kindness.

Mile 14 I was hurting. My quads were in a lot of pain, so I took to speed walking. It was also at this point hills appeared. YIKES. Mike met me around mile 15 and told me the gang was waiting for me. There was food and NUUN for me, and I asked Mark to get me through the next 5 miles.

Off we walked. We went through Butler University. I was happy to show Mark my old school. We went to the Indianapolis Museum of Art, which is in an amazing park. I was so glad Mark was there with me. He helped me speed up from an 18:20/mile to a 16:42/mile. Sadly he told me the last pace group was approaching. Bless his heart, he was blistering and struggling to be with me, so he let me go right before mile 21.

At mile 21 Kris and Mike's kids greeting me with goodies and drink. These kids are a lot of fun, and I was so glad they were there to cheer me on. Off I went, telling them all I would see them at the finish.

On my own, my thoughts turned to my mom. Today is also the anniversary of her passing, so I dedicated this race to her. I took this time to talk to her, and I feel she was watching me. I would even go so far to say that when it looked like I wanted to quit after mile 10, she sent Jon from Puma to me.

I talked to her about how I missed her every day, and how much I love Mark, and what he means to me. I also decided that while I was dedicating the race to mom, I was dedicating the last 1.2 miles to Mark.

At mile 22 the last pace group passed me. I should be clear, there was no group, just the pace leader. I told her I was dreading this moment. She told me the course would still be open a while, but I was close.

These last 4 miles were hard. I was in a lot of pain. My legs and feet were killing me. Medical personnel circled me a few times to make sure I was ok. I assured them I was . At mile 24 Kris called, the kids wanted to know if they could finish the race with me. I said that would be fine.

At mile 25, I noticed just a few people behind me, and the clean up truck. I was at the end of the pack. I tried to run, but it was so hard. Still I ran and walked when I could . I rounded Monument Circle, and made "sped" up in the last mile. Before the turn to the finish I saw the kids. Daniel, Lia and Tori, all greeted me, and proceeded to run with me. The only thing I asked was they let me cross the line first - they did.

I finished the marathon in 6:41:07 - a new PR! Not the sub 6 hour I hoped for, but I will take it. Mark waited for me at the finish, and I was in tears as I hugged him. I have a darned big medal around my neck as I write this. My place was 1976 out of 1978. Yes...I kept my record in tact, I was not the last finisher.

My reward for the race - Steak n Shake - YUM!

I had the best crew I could imagine. Thanks to my Mike, Kris, Joel, Lia, Daniel and Tori, and my beloved Mark. They were great, and I was so glad they were a part of this day.

I am pretty sore now, and not ready to talk about my next race. I am just so glad I finished this one.

Charlie

Training is Done

This morning was my last training run before the marathon. I ran 4 miles in 48:41. It was a cool cloudy morning, as I headed from home down along Sheridan, past Loyola University, to the Edgewater area.

This was not a hard run at all. It was meant to be easy and relaxed. It was. I felt a bit stiff and awkward at the start, but after 1 mile I got into the groove, and enjoyed the run. I did not really think about much on this run. I figure I will have 26.2 miles and under 6 hours to think about stuff on Saturday. No, this was just an easy run.

It has been a good training for me. I never felt like I was straining during training. My only "bad" run was the 16 mile run. I have liked the 3 days a week running, but will confess, I wish it had been 4. I like have one extra day of running.

Bottom line I feel ready. Can't wait until Saturday.

Charlie

3 Days and Counting - What to Wear?

This is not about fashion, this is about being comfortable during the marathon. As of this writing, the weather in Indianapolis on Saturday is sunny, and 40s in the morning, and 60 by mid-day. This seems pretty darned good to me.

This helps me figure what to wear. You always want to be sure you are comfortable for your race. It should be something you have been running in, and not new for race day. So forget the new outfit you want to buy at the expo. You want to be comfortable, and have no surprises with your clothing.

So what will I wear? For most of my long runs, I have been wearing a Pearl Izumi sleeveless shirt. I love this shirt. It wicks away the moisture, and dries very quickly, so I never feel like I am wearing a sweaty shirt. I have tights I like wearing quite a bit. They are shorts, so yes, I may look like a ballet dancer in them, but I don't care. The problem I have with running shorts is the same problem millions of other have - they rise up in the crotch area, and look like an upside down "V". That is annoying when I am running. The tights don't rise up, and the issue of chaffing is greatly reduced. NO ONE WANTS TO CHAFE.

I will have a hat - just need to figure which one. Because it will be cool in the morning - arm warmers. I swear by them now. My shoes are the Brooks Dyad. Socks....typically I wear Balega. My other sock of choice is Feetures. Of course NO ONE should run without Body Glide - trust me on this.

Got the clothes all set....next I figure the nutrition and hydration.

Charlie

4 Days and Counting - A Good Day

Today was a pretty darned good day. It started with a meeting with a rep from Asics to ask for feedback on prototypes for 2011 shoes. It was fascinating to see what the future Asics shoes could look like, and how the public might respond to them.

At work, I had the joy to help a woman who is new to running. She seemed so happy to get new shoes and really give running a try. I love helping new runners. They seem so excited, and I am so happy to talk to them about their goals and dreams.

I thought about these things as I ran this evening. The sun was down, the moon was rising over Lake Michigan, and I loved my run. I ran through Rogers Park, and eventually headed out on a pier going out onto the lake. I stopped for a couple minutes. The moonlight was shining on the dark lake. The light formed a V as it went out towards the horizon.

My thoughts turned to the marathon. I am ready for it. I have no idea what the day will bring, but I am ready, and I know what I need to do to have a successful day. It all seemed so clear to me as I was looking out over Lake Michigan.

The 3 miles I ran was easy and nice. A good way to end the day.

Charlie

5 Days and Counting - Mark's 5K

Today has been a day of conflicting feelings. On the joyful side, I was so proud to watch Mark run his first 5K. He ran the Hot Chocolate 5K. He was originally supposed to run a 5K earlier in the year, but he had a seizure a couple weeks before the race, and was in a great deal of pain afterwards.

All summer he trained. He went to the gym, ran outdoors, and developed better eating habits. As a result, he was so happy to be out running today - 28 lbs lighter. He is so happy, and I am so proud of him.

Watching him take off with thousands of other people, and then finishing about 45 minutes later made me feel so happy for him. He looked good out there, and when he finished, I could tell he felt he accomplished a great deal.

Our happiness was tempered once we got home. Sadly Mark had a seizure. This was a short one, about 5 minutes. It kills me to see him go through this. Afterwards he is in a lot of pain, and so unhappy.

I love him so much, and this is so hard to watch him go through the seizures. He is not there. I don't know where he is, and he blackouts, so he is not aware what is going on. He looks so scared and sad when he comes out of it.

So today I am conflicted, I am both happy and sad for Mark.

Charlie

7 Days and Counting - Indianapolis

I have lived in Indianapolis twice. My first stint in Indy was my first two years of college. I attended Butler University. While I liked the city, the school left me less than impressed. In hindsight, I think it had more to do with not getting into the school I wanted to attend. Still I met some wonderful people, and am still friends with these folks. They will be out cheering me during the marathon. My second stint in Indy was while I was between times at Indiana University. I worked for the Indiana Rep. Theatre. I really liked working there, and enjoyed living in the city.

Indianapolis is the most diverse city in Indiana. Now, I am not saying it is a huge melting pot, it's still Indiana. I am saying it is very different from the rest of the state. I loved the arts in the city. Of course the sports are terrific. There are the NFL Colts, the NBA Pacers, come to think of it, there is lots of basketball in Indiana.

The marathon course will take me by the Colts home - Lucas Oil Field. I will see all of the old landmarks I remember - Monument Circle, the War Memorial, Butler University, the State Fairgrounds, the Art Museum. Really looking forward to running through my old stomping grounds.

Yesterday's run was a quick run at the gym. I ran 4 miles while Mark trained for his 5K. I felt good running a 12:06 pace.

My posts from here on out will talk about race day preparation. A week from tomorrow.....I run!

Charlie

9 Days and Counting - The Other Race

Mine is not the only race coming up. Mark has his first 5K this Sunday - Hot Chocolate 5K. Mark was originally supposed to run a 5K back in June. He was part of my No Boundaries training program. Sadly about a week before the race he had a seizure, and was in a lot of pain and could not run on race day.

It bothered him all summer. He told me to be on the lookout for another race. In the meantime he was hitting the gym and running. At this point he has lost 28 lbs, and is feeling very good about himself. I was on the lookout for another race, and when I found this one, I registered him for it.

I asked him if he wanted me to run with him. He actually wants me to wait for him at the finish, just as he has waited for me. He wants me to have a sign cheering him on, and water and a bagel waiting. I am happy to do that. I have recruited friends to come out and be his cheering crew. So there will be a Mark contingent cheering him on.

I am so proud of Mark. He is doing so well, and really seems to enjoy the running and training. A new runner has emerged.

Charlie

10 Days and Counting - Mom

As I mentioned before the marathon will be on the anniversary of my mom's passing. I am going to do something on this blog my mother would hate, I am going to talk about her and what happened 12 years ago. She would say it is no one's business, because she was a pretty private person. I am writing this out, so it is out of my head on marathon day. Last thing I need is to be emotional on that day.

Nancy Colpaert was born Nancy Van Meter. She grew up in rural Illinois. She, my grandmother and my Uncle Bill had to keep the farm going after my grandfather died. His death was occurred just as the great depression hit. Times were incredibly hard for my mom. Losing her dad, and working hard to keep the farm, I believe, made her an incredibly strong person.

My mother worked hard to get her degree from Northwestern University. That is where she met Joe Colpaert, whom she would later marry. Her jobs included working for the TB Association, teaching, and a stint in the Navy during WWII. At one point she was in law school, and had hopes to be the first woman to attend the University of Notre Dame.

She and my dad were married for 49 years. During their marriage, they shared wonderful joys and incredible sorrows, as most couples do. I have commented on my brother David's passing before. I believe his death in 1968 changed my folks, and not necessarily for the better. They became sadder people.

My mom though was an incredible supporter of me. Growing up she sat through various shows I produced in our basement. Not sure if she like them, but it made her happy to be entertained. I might add, I was darned good performer too. Mom believed I could do anything I wanted in life. I may not have believed that, but it gave me great comfort to know she was on my side.

Coming out to her was a tough one. To be honest, I still don't know how she didn't know I was gay. C'mon your son is singing Chorus Line, Hello Dolly and taking you to see Fame. Still denial is a powerful thing. I know she did not like my sexuality, but I know in the end she was at peace with me.

1997 was the sad year. She was diagnosed with Liver Cancer in the Spring. We watched her deteriorate very quickly during this time. In the Fall she fell and broke her hip. This was the beginning of the end. I went to Florida to spend time with her. I was with her everyday in the hospital, talking to her like always. She looked very sad though at this point. On Halloween I was called back to Florida, she had a stroke. What we learned from this was that time was running out.

For the next week she could not communicate well with us. She could not speak. She could, however, squeeze our hands though. Her eye sight was nearly gone. I sat with her everyday and talked to her. I talked about the usual things, and never got emotional. Our last true conversation was before the stroke. I told her I wanted to go to Hong Kong, but did not know when. She told me I should go whenever I want. She taught me a valued lesson in travel. When I was younger she said the world was mine to go see, and I should go do it.

On November 7, 1997, we brought mom home. There was a hospice worker there. I told her we needed to put mom in something nicer than a hospital gown. We found a nice floral robe for her to wear. I spent part of the afternoon sitting at her side holding her hand, talking to her. Around 5:30 p.m., I was just looking at her. All I could see was the pain of the last few months. I squeezed her hand and told her, "I think we are going to be ok." Her eyes focused on me. She squeezed my hand, and then was gone. She needed to be told all would be well.

I have missed her everyday since that last moment. Even now I am in tears as I write this. I am now a runner. Mom would be supportive of my running, even if she did not know why I ran.

She will be in my thoughts as I get to the start line in Indianapolis, and I know she will watch over me as I run. I dedicate this marathon to Nancy Colpaert....mom I love you.

Charlie

11 Days and Counting - Taper Runs

This is my taper time. The runs are not as intense, and sometimes not as long. Tonight I ran 2.5 miles and it felt pretty good. It was a long day at work, so a short quick run was in the cards.

Mark and I were at the gym tonight. Mark was on the stair machine and I ran on the treadmill. I didn't want to do a longer run and run hard, so fast gym run was in the cards.

Taper means cutting back. Run just enough to keep your body in training, but don't over do. People tell me they love the taper. I am ok with it. I am usually so used to the training runs, I tend to miss the intensity.

Charlie

12 Days and Counting - Fall Along the Lake

This morning I headed out on a 3.1 mile run along Lake Michigan at a local park nearby. It was a gorgeous morning. Upper 40s greeted me as I headed outside. I took it easy, no need for speeding my way through this run.

I felt great. I especially like watching the water lap up on the shore. One of the best moments on this route, is when I head out on the pier, and can look south towards the city. Chicago has a magnificent skyline, and it looked its usual great self today.

People were out mostly walking dogs this morning. A few dogs greeted me. People were in a good mood. Lots of "good mornings". I love the friendly folk I encounter on the runs.

Coach Scott has reviewed how I am doing, and thinks all systems are go for the marathon in Indy. He is confident I will break 6 hours. I just need to work on my confidence now.

Charlie

Two Weeks and Counting - Today I am Mad. Plodding???

As I looked through the NY Times today I so angry as I read this article.....

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/23/sports/23marathon.html?hpw

The article raises an issue that is talked about in the running community - the faster runners vs. the slower runners. The "problem" is that running snobs feel that slower runners are some how ruining the marathon experience; that somehow the slow runners are not really running.

From the article:

“If you’re wearing a marathon T-shirt, that doesn’t mean much anymore,” Given said on the eve of this month’s Baltimore Marathon, where vendors were selling products that celebrate slower runners. One sticker said: “I’m slow. I know. Get over it.”

“I always ask those people, ‘What was your time?’ If it’s six hours or more, I say, ‘Oh great, that’s fine, but you didn’t really run it,’ ” said Givens, who finished the Baltimore race in 4:05:52.

Let me tell you something Ms. Given, I work my ass off on the road. It is not pretty, and at the end of the run I am in a lot of pain. I do it because of my love of the sport, and I am testing myself against the road and the clock. That is what the marathon is about. It is not only for the 4 hour or less people. What if the the elites told you your 4 hour was too slow, and you aren't really running, and you really shouldn't be in their race. Do you know how insulting that it?

The fact is running is something we should be encouraging. There are time limits on the courses and they should be adhered to. I fully realize the clock is ticking when I start, and I want to finish before the the course closes. If I was running beyond that time, I wouldn't enter the race at all.

I deal with beginning runners everyday. These people need all the encouragement they can get. For the record, most marathons would not be as financially successful if it weren't for the 6 hour folks.

Charlie

15 Days and Counting - Walk Like Frankenstein

I woke up this morning feeling pretty good. Immediately after the 20 mile run, and all day yesterday, I think I walked like Frankenstein. That gives you an idea how stiff and sore I was after the run.

I did use Zoot Compression Socks yesterday, and as the day went on my walking was much easier. This morning I am a touch stiff, but nowhere near the pain and stiffness I had. I really think compression in some fashion will help for the marathon. I am looking at some tights to wear, because I noticed my hips have gotten more sore on these longer runs, and I think that adds to my fatigue, especially once I have passed the 16 mile mark. I would love to see what compression can do for me in the runs leading up to the marathon.

Can't believe the race is getting closer.

Charlie

17 and 16 Days and Counting - the 20 Miler

Folks this run was sooooo important to me. In my previous marathon trainings I have never been able to finish the 20 mile long run. I did not care how long it took me, I was going to finish this run.

My route was the Lakefront Path. The day was very nice, mild and clear at the start, mild and cloudy at the end.

After a good luck kiss from Mark, off I headed towards Soldier Field. The first 5.5 miles were uneventful. I really enjoyed looking at the fall colors in Lincoln Park. Fall is my favorite time of year, so I really like what I saw. I met Mark at the 5.5 mile marker, and felt good. I got my next bottle of NUUN, and off I went.

Normally I would follow the path, but I am not a fan of the path as it hugs the water. It is very slanted and difficult for me, considering my limited range of motion in my feet. So I veered off, and went along the more residential part of Lake Shore Drive. What struck me on this run was how few people were out. I had the route to myself for the most part. That is so different from the summer months.

I made my way to Soldier Field. I met Mark at the Field Museum, facing the stadium. I finished the the first 10 miles in 2:18. Not a bad time. I wanted to take it easy, and I felt good at this point. Mark had a peanut butter sandwich and more water for me. Soon I headed back.

I was going slower on the return trip, and my only thought was, "I need to finish." I met Mark back at the original 5.5 marker. I was feeling a bit stiff in the hips, but otherwise fine. I told him I would meet him at the finish.

Mile 17 was where I hit the wall. My ankles and feet were hurting. I need encouragement. I called my sister. As luck would have it, she had bad news for me. Our father had a bad blackout spell when he got up in the night, and fell. We talked some about what the future holds for dad. He is 92, and his health is not the best. I was walking during all of this. I had no problem with the prolonged walk break, though I knew it would kill my time. My sister told me she knew I could finish this run, and off I went.

My goal for this run was a 6/1 interval. I followed it for most of the run. Mile 17 as mentioned changed that. I did more 4/1 at that point. I called Mark who was at the finish, and asked him to come towards me, and walk/run with me to the finish. We met about .2 before the finish, and I was so happy to see him. I got emotional when we started heading to the finish.

What a relief to finish this run. As I said it was so important for me to finish this run. It tells me I can finish this marathon. Will I finish in under 6 hours? I don't know. I do know I will PR, and that will make me very proud and happy. My time for this run - 4:48:41.

Charlie

18 Days and Counting - Looking at the 20 Miler

There is something a bit daunting about the number 20. Yes, I know I mastered 18 miles. I also know 20 miles is just 2 more miles. Still there is something about that 2 more miles that has be a bit intimidated. The key is going to be to keep things manageable. This will be the plan for the marathon. I think of this run as the dress rehearsal.

Mark will be at key points with Gu and NUUN. Who knows he may even run a bit with me.

I have to remember to go steady, don't force or rush anything. That has been an important lesson in this training.

The run will be on the Lakefront Path, from the 0 mile marker to Soldier Field. I will give updates after the run.

Charlie

19 Days and Counting - Preparing

So much is going through my mind as I prepare for this race. I want to be sure I have the hydration down. I want to be sure the nutrition is there. I want to make sure the pace I am running is a good steady pace. I also want to be sure my mind is ready.

If you haven't gone through a marathon, one of the things I feel you need is a good mental attitude. As the race progresses your mind decides it is going to play rough with you. My mind in later stages of races like to pick up on things which are bothering me. It could be the fact I need to pee. I could be the pain I am feeling in my foot. Perhaps it is the fact the 80 year old is passing me. My mind likes to focus on it and try to give me reasons to quit.

It's at that point I begin to make deals with myself. I tell myself I will run until that tree, then a walk break will help. I remind myself Mark is waiting, and he'll be pissed if I don't make it to that mile marker or finish line. I do what I have to so I can fight what my mind wants to do. In other words I have to be strong.

I have been known to talk to myself, swear at myself, sing to myself. I do whatever it takes. This is when the IPod comes into play. I listen to podcasts, music, whatever so my mind can be occupied.

November 7 is a tough day for me as it is. It is the anniversary of my mom's passing. I can't allow myself to get emotional that day. I have to be ready to run and do it. Of course my mom will be in my thoughts, but I can't let my missing her overwhelm me that day. So I will say a prayer before I run, run, and at the end, be happy that my mom was watching over me that day.

Mentally tough is what will win the day.

Charlie

Three Weeks and Counting - River Run

Today was a nice and easy 6 miles. My pace was nothing blazing, and I was happy with that - 12:30/mile. My overall goal was to take it easy before Tuesday's 20 mile run.

Today's run was along the Chicago River. I have run on this path before. My store uses it for our fun runs, so I am very familiar with it. It was a decent Fall morning; cloudy, chance of rain. As it turned out it hailed after my run. Still I enjoyed the run. A woman from the fun run asked me how could I run without an IPod? I told her that on many runs I just like hearing the sounds around me. She smiled and shook her head like I was nuts. So be it.

So here we are, three weeks from this writing I will have finished the marathon. I am sure I will be tired and very sore on Tuesday, but overall I am feeling good about the training. Really looking forward to the race itself. Soon I will be making final race plans.

Charlie

22 Days and Counting - People are Supportive

Dave, a co-worker of mine, is also running the Indy Monumental Marathon. He's a good guy, and I am happy to know he will be out there running the same course. His wife Casey is a wonderful woman who is very supportive of Dave's running. In return he supports her running.

I am a lucky guy. I have Mark out there He has been so supportive of my running. In return I am supportive of his. He is training for his first 5K in a few weeks. He has asked I not run it with him. Instead I am going to be the cheerleader. Looking forward to it.

Mark is an important part of my support crew for the marathon. He will be out there at various spots along the route with Nuun, GUs, and whatever else I may need. He has also offered to run some of the marathon with me.

We will see how that last part may work next Tuesday when I go for the 20 miler. In the meantime, Dave tells me Casey has told him what help I needed from her for the race, to let her know. That is so cool.

On race day I will have Mark, my good friend Kris and her clan, and now I know I have Casey out there possibly helping. Support like this is so crucial.

Charlie

23 Days and Counting - What to Wear?

Saturday we got a lot of customers and calls at the store, all with the same question, "What do I wear for the marathon?" Technically this questions needs to be answered in training. Try different outfits to see what works for you. If you have a general idea of what the weather is like on race day, then begin training wearing those kinds of clothes.

For instance, I am running a November marathon. Chances are it will be cold to cool. So layers will be important. A good solid base layer is key. As always, stay away from cotton. Cotton is rotten. You want good technical clothing which will help regulate your body temperature, and wick moisture away as well.

Over that base layer, then maybe a jacket. Again, technical in nature. Make sure it is breathable. You don't want to hold sweat as you run. Even in the cold, you sweat, so it needs to escape. A jacket with a zipper really is a good temperature regulator.

So what if you don't want a jacket? Yesterday I tried running with a short sleeve, using arm warmers. This was my first time wearing arm warmers. Some are compression, others are just warmers. I felt like I had breathable sweaters on my arms. Got to say I loved wearing them.

I think tights are a good cold weather option. If you can find compression tights, even better. You want warmth. Tights do that, and still wick. Compression tights can help the muscles and blood flow, which will help speed recovery. The idea is compression reduces muscle fatigue. I believe I am going to try this for the marathon. I will get some soon and try them out.

The most important article of clothing? A hat. You really want to protect your head. When heat escapes, a good percentage of it leaves via the head. So make sure you have a good covering on your head. I am using a skull cap which wicks and keeps my head heat regulated.

Hmmmm.....maybe I should have a fashion show.

Charlie

24 Days and Counting - "You a Marathoner?"

Today I decided it was just too nice a Fall day not to go for a run, so I headed out on a 6 mile run, and I was so glad I did. I headed towards Andersonville, which is one of my favorite runs. As I run through the neighborhood, an elderly African American woman was coming towards me. She was carrying something rather heavy, and looked like she was just wanted to be home. She saw me, and smiled. Her whole attitude brightened as she saw me coming towards her. "You a marathoner?" she asked. I told her I was. She asked if I did well on Sunday. I told her my marathon was not for a few weeks. She said, "You go on marathoner!"

I love stuff like that. My run was a bit brighter, and there was a spring in my step. In fact I carried that good feeling all through the run. I noticed I ran faster as well. I had not planned on a full faster run, but I did.

This actually was ok, because I wanted to be a bit faster as I headed into a cold north wind. Yes it was nippy out there. The cold gave me the chance to try the arm warmers I was given this week. I have never run with arm warmers, but I loved them. My arms were warm, and there was no long sleeve shirt to make me feel confined.

I was so pleased with this run. Looking forward the to next 6 miler.

Charlie

26 and 25 Days and Counting - Chicago Marathon and Week's Goal

This will be a twofer posting today. Sorry about missing yesterday.

Yesterday was the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. It is always an exciting day, whether I am running it or not. This year I really wished I was running it. Temps were in the 30s at the start. Mark and I were with the Fleet Feet Crew at our larger store, which is along the marathon route. We passed out pom poms and whistles for folks to cheer runners on.

There was a lot of excitement as we waited for the runners. People in the crowd had their signs of encouragement for their loved ones. Pom poms were being pom pom'd. Everyone was in high spirits.

First the wheelchair athletes came through. I am always impressed with these folks. That is some hard work making those chairs go for 26.2 miles. Soon the elite athletes came by, let by Sammy Wanjiru, the 2008 Olympic Marathon champion. Sammy was going for the world record. In the end he "settled" for the course record, winning in 2:05:10. He was also awarded the prize for winning the World Marathon Majors challenge. All I know is he looked a bit cold as he zipped by. Heck they all did.

Liliya Shobukova won the women's title in a time of 2:25:56. I would say that is a pretty darned good time, but in the press conference, Shobukova expressed disappointment in not getting the Russian record. Hey you just won the Chicago Marathon - celebrate woman!

After the elites went by, then the sea of humanity came through. These are the core of the marathon. Those who are running their first, or trying to set a PR, or just out for a great marathon run. Some look serious, others dress in costumes. One day I hope to understand why a man dresses as Minnie Mouse to run 26.2 miles.

I could not stay for the whole thing, as I had to go to work. Still it was a thrill to see it. Gives me a lot of inspiration for Indy!

This week is a cut back week. I am doing a series of 6 mile runs, and a bit tiny bit of speed work. I will do a quicker 3 miler today. Next week the 20 mile run awaits me.

Charlie