Back to the Run

This week I will run again. Did I mention I miss it. It's been tough this week helping people with their running, and not being in shape to run.

That changes this week. I am going to lace up the shoes and go for a run. Oh it won't be a long run. It will be long enough for me to enjoy it. I'm thinking Tuesday. We'll see....can't wait.

Charlie

So Now What?

The marathon is over. So now what do I do? Well once I get running again, I think the goal will be to have fun with running. Now that I am not training for anything, I can cut loose and not worry about time and how I am doing. I can just run. That is a liberating feeling. Don't get me wrong, I love to train, but I love to "just run" a bit more.

I do want an eye to the future though. Next year there won't be a marathon. I do want to do a couple half marathons though. Do I run one I have run before? Do I go for something different? Mark has a goal of a half marathon. Do I help him with that? Or do I just focus on my running? In January No Boundaries starts again. I will have a focus on that for 12 weeks. Gotta love running in winter. :-)

I've got plenty of time to think and plan for 2010. Still resting....but you can tell I am getting ready to get off the couch.

Charlie

Rest and Recovery

I have not run since the marathon. I can tell I am ready to get back to it, because today was the first day I wanted to run since the marathon. I am holding off though until sometime next week to run. I want to heal and recover from the race last week.

This is not always an easy time for me. I am used to running, so not running annoys me. When I'm not running, I feel I am losing out on something I need - that time to myself, to get away from the world. I will gradually get back to running. Soon I will come up with my next goals. For now...rest.

Charlie

47

Today is my birthday. While turning 47 is not a milestone, it is a time to reflect and look ahead. The last 47 years have had their share of joys and sorrows. I think what makes me especially good about reaching another year is that I have good health and love.

I was asked the other day what I wanted for my birthday. I actually didn't need anything. Don't get me wrong, I would love a new TV, a new IPod, some books, and a trip around the world. Those things, though, pale in comparison to being in good health and having love in your life.

Other than arthritis, I am good health. The doctor has been pleased with everything. I feel good, which is even better. Could I be about 10-15 lighter? Sure, who couldn't, but I am not complaining.

As for love, my life with Mark is a good one. People who know us would raise an eyebrow considering the odd home life we have(roommates from HELL), but in reality, we are good. We are supportive of each other, we take care of each other, we share a good life with each other. I will take that over an IPod that might break any day.

So what is ahead for me? Running is still ahead. No marathon in 2010, but there will be a half marathon or two. I will be coaching in the coming year. I love coaching the 5K group. Running with Mark, and encouraging his efforts. He has a goal of a half marathon....will help anyway I can.

At work, changes are ahead as we move into a larger space, and make some changes at the store - an exciting time.

Hopefully as I move ahead, I remember lessons of the past, make good decisions, and if I fail, try to learn from those mistakes.

Peace.

Charlie

Reflection

People have been asking me how I feel about my marathon. My thoughts are that this was perhaps my best marathon experience. Yes, I didn't hit my time. I can live with that. Yes, I walked a good portion of the course. I can live with that. What made this experience so wonderful was a combination of the people who were with me and where I ran.

My friends Kris and Mike are good people. I have known Kris since I was a student at Indiana University. I have always been close to her family. I was a grooms man in their wedding. They came to my college graduation. I have attended her sister's wedding. While we have not spent as much time together in the last few years as we did back then, these people are important to me. Now they have children, who are a great group of kids.

Together with Mark, they made such a terrific crew for my marathon. The kids had signs ready to cheer on "Uncle Charlie." I have not spent a lot of time with Kris and Mike's kids, but I have taken to them, and them to me. They also adore Mark. So we are uncles now.

Indianapolis holds an important part of my life. I lived there twice in the 1980s. It was where I started college at Butler University. It is also where life took a dramatic change for me. It was in Indianapolis where I received an HIV+ test result. As many people know, 2 1/2 years later it would come out that had been a false test result. Still Indianapolis is where I first dealt with who I was as an adult - facing possible death does that to you.

Also - I was reminded during this race, that runners don't want anyone to fail. Jon Cook from Puma really helped me when I needed it. No nutrition in my pouch. No NUUN in my bottle, and he happened by when I needed someone to, and got me Gatorade and a Power Bar. This is what I love about the running community, runners want everyone to cross the line.

All of this was a recipe for success in my mind. I will have other chances at my sub 6 hours, but I will never have another experience like this year's Indianapolis Monumental Marathon.

Charlie

Pictures From Marathon Weekend

Ideal setting for the race. The weather was good. The course was good, and I had a terrific crew. As you can see, some of the crew got me to the finish!

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