I have often thought that each race we run provides a lesson, not only in terms of our running, but in life as well. My first 5K was a Trick of Trot Halloween race. Prior to this, my running consisted of my getting up at 4 a.m., and heading out the door. I didn't want people to see me run, because I thought I looked horrible.
What I learned in this first race, is that nobody, but a Kenyan, looks like a Kenyan when they ran. I saw people stomp their way through the race. I saw prancing. I saw run/walking and walk/running. No one looked especially graceful. Then again, I was towards the back, maybe all the Kenyan like folks led the darned thing. Still, I valued the lesson that I no longer had to be ashamed of what I look like running, and to this day, know I look kind of silly running, but who cares?
My first half marathon was a different lesson. I learned not only could I do long distances, but the long distance race can be emotional. Now to be fair, I was running in my hometown of South Bend, IN, and running into Notre Dame Stadium. Still I learned that these milestones can sometimes me very emotional. I got choked up as the stadium came into sight. I got chills as I ran through the tunnel. I WAS Joe Montana running into the stadium, and I was thrilled beyond belief.
The marathon, each one I have run, poses a different set of lessons. The marathon is about seeing how far you can push your body, and what you can take. None of the marathons I have run have been easy. The first one, proved I could do it. The second one showed me that even under adverse weather conditions, sometimes it's best to call it a day. The third one showed me I could go faster, and more importantly share my love of the race with others. The fourth was a true lesson in endurance, and how hard the distance can be.
All of these races have a common lesson though, once you put your mind to something, you can accomplish anything. It may not be pretty. It may not be glorious. Sometimes it hurts. In the end though, you can do it.
Charlie
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
31 Days ...
We are now 31 days until the marathon. Within the next week, I will need a really long run, so I am figuring when to do that. In the meantime I have maps of the course, and trying to figure out the places Mark can meet me along the course.
I am also doing something different this time as motivation. I will be dedicating various miles to various people. If you are interested in having a mile on the course dedicated to you, let me know. I have already dedicated the first, 13.1 and final .2 miles, which I will talk about as the month goes on.
I'm feeling fairly good at this point. I am relatively healthy. My runs, for the most part have gone well. I think I have a handle on the race nutrition. So far so good as the saying goes.
At this point in race training, it's a matter of getting mentally strong to endure the 26.2 miles.
31 days and counting....
Charlie
I am also doing something different this time as motivation. I will be dedicating various miles to various people. If you are interested in having a mile on the course dedicated to you, let me know. I have already dedicated the first, 13.1 and final .2 miles, which I will talk about as the month goes on.
I'm feeling fairly good at this point. I am relatively healthy. My runs, for the most part have gone well. I think I have a handle on the race nutrition. So far so good as the saying goes.
At this point in race training, it's a matter of getting mentally strong to endure the 26.2 miles.
31 days and counting....
Charlie
Monday, August 19, 2013
NB 880v3 vs. Brooks Dyad 7
As I became more serious about running, there have been two brands I have been able to wear somewhat consistently; New Balance and Brooks. Because of the various issues with my feet, and the fact they are extra wide, very few companies make shoes I can wear. These two brands have been pretty good for me.
Over the last three years I have been strictly Brooks. The reason being that as New Balance has tinkered with old standbys, I have found their shoes to be too narrow, or in the case of the last shoe I wore, the heel broke down in 7 runs.
Now there is a new version of the NB 880v3 out, and I was given a pair, so it's time to compare shoes....
On the right, we have my current shoe - Brooks Dyad 7. One the left - NB 880v3.
Let's look at the make of the shoes. First of all the Dyad runs a bit longer than the 880. It isn't by much, but there is a touch more length.
The stability pods on the Dyad also make it a wider shoe. Both have a wide toe box which is very important to me, as that is where I am widest.
Not many people think about depth in a shoe, but the move these days is to have a shallower shoe. This helps make it a lighter shoe. In this case, the NB 880 is much closer to the foot than the Dyad.
Both shoes have the 12mm drop from heel to toe. These are more traditional, as the move is the have 4mm less heel to tow drop. Thank you barefoot movement.
So how do the shoes compare running?
The Dyad 7 has Brooks DNA cushioning in it, which has been in several of their other shoes like the Adrenaline or Glycerin. It is designed to make Brooks shoes even softer. For the record, Brooks shoes have never been known for their pillowy feel, and to be honest, I don't like a softer cushion. I find over time my feet and ankles hurt with more cushion, because I'm not as firmly planted on the ground, or so I feel.
NB 880v3 uses Abzorb for it's cushioning. Again, this is not a pillow to run on, it is a pretty firm shoe. They have also added ActevaLite which is a premium lightweight midsole, for an additional cushion.
Yesterday I ran 5 miles in the NB 880v3. Here is what I liked. The firm feel. While Brooks has made the Dyad feel softer, I liked the firmer feel of the New Balance. I felt I could push off from the ground better, like I was more in control of planting my foot. The New Balance is also lighter. The Brooks Dyad can sometimes feel clunky. Now this isn't necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes I want more flex in my shoe. While the 880 felt narrower, I never felt the width was a problem. To be fair, I would need to do a longer run, and allow my feet to swell before I made a final determination.
What I didn't like... The shallow depth of the shoe was an issue. I felt it pressing on the top of my foot, especially on the left foot, to the point I felt some pain. I thought this was odd, because my right foot is the wider. I did loosen the shoes laces, and alleviated some of the pain. The pain though, lingered through the rest of the evening. The shoes laces on the 880 are very thin, and it can lead one to tie them too tight for fear they may come undone. I am going to re-lace them a bit differently on my next run to see if there is still the issue.
My other concern is the heel. After my last NB shoe, I am a bit leery of the heel strength. Again, further running would need to be done before any durability can be discerned.
Overall I really liked the 880v3. Am I going to give up on the Dyad? No. I think it's good to have another shoe in the arsenal. I am going to run a few more times before I decide which one I want to use on race day.
Charlie
Over the last three years I have been strictly Brooks. The reason being that as New Balance has tinkered with old standbys, I have found their shoes to be too narrow, or in the case of the last shoe I wore, the heel broke down in 7 runs.
Now there is a new version of the NB 880v3 out, and I was given a pair, so it's time to compare shoes....
On the right, we have my current shoe - Brooks Dyad 7. One the left - NB 880v3.
Let's look at the make of the shoes. First of all the Dyad runs a bit longer than the 880. It isn't by much, but there is a touch more length.
Not many people think about depth in a shoe, but the move these days is to have a shallower shoe. This helps make it a lighter shoe. In this case, the NB 880 is much closer to the foot than the Dyad.
Both shoes have the 12mm drop from heel to toe. These are more traditional, as the move is the have 4mm less heel to tow drop. Thank you barefoot movement.
So how do the shoes compare running?
The Dyad 7 has Brooks DNA cushioning in it, which has been in several of their other shoes like the Adrenaline or Glycerin. It is designed to make Brooks shoes even softer. For the record, Brooks shoes have never been known for their pillowy feel, and to be honest, I don't like a softer cushion. I find over time my feet and ankles hurt with more cushion, because I'm not as firmly planted on the ground, or so I feel.
NB 880v3 uses Abzorb for it's cushioning. Again, this is not a pillow to run on, it is a pretty firm shoe. They have also added ActevaLite which is a premium lightweight midsole, for an additional cushion.
Yesterday I ran 5 miles in the NB 880v3. Here is what I liked. The firm feel. While Brooks has made the Dyad feel softer, I liked the firmer feel of the New Balance. I felt I could push off from the ground better, like I was more in control of planting my foot. The New Balance is also lighter. The Brooks Dyad can sometimes feel clunky. Now this isn't necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes I want more flex in my shoe. While the 880 felt narrower, I never felt the width was a problem. To be fair, I would need to do a longer run, and allow my feet to swell before I made a final determination.
What I didn't like... The shallow depth of the shoe was an issue. I felt it pressing on the top of my foot, especially on the left foot, to the point I felt some pain. I thought this was odd, because my right foot is the wider. I did loosen the shoes laces, and alleviated some of the pain. The pain though, lingered through the rest of the evening. The shoes laces on the 880 are very thin, and it can lead one to tie them too tight for fear they may come undone. I am going to re-lace them a bit differently on my next run to see if there is still the issue.
My other concern is the heel. After my last NB shoe, I am a bit leery of the heel strength. Again, further running would need to be done before any durability can be discerned.
Overall I really liked the 880v3. Am I going to give up on the Dyad? No. I think it's good to have another shoe in the arsenal. I am going to run a few more times before I decide which one I want to use on race day.
Charlie
Sunday, August 18, 2013
Saying Goodbye to a Friend
Last week I talked about one of my favorite customers JB. In keeping with the notion that I can't mention specific names, today I want to talk about AS. AS is another young man who I have helped now for a few years.
When I first worked with AS, he was looking for shoes for hist first marathon. AS comes from a very nice family, so I got to know his mom as well in the process. She would talk to me about his goals, and how she wanted to encourage him. I offered advice to both. I figured the runner not only needs advice, but the support crew needs some too.
For his first marathon, his mom was going to follow him around the course on her bike, but she knew she couldn't go everywhere. She made a sign with his name on it, and asked if I could hold it up and cheer him on race day. We had a cheer section, so I was happy to do it.
On race day I saw him coming down the road. We were at mile 15, so I figured this would be a tough stretch for him. I got the sign, the cowbell, and the the crew ready to cheer him on. He flashed a smile and a wave as he went by.
Later, not only did his mom thanks us, but AS came into the store to tell me that he was at a low point in the race when we saw him, and that cheering section boosted his spirits, and he was able to keep going. I thought that was awfully nice of both of them to thank me. I was happy to do it.
Months later, AS ran Chicago. This time, his mom was worried about how to get around. I went over the course map, and where along the route she could easily get to. Again, another successful race for AS. Again, I was thanked for my help.
Since then, AS comes in to order his shoes, and talk a bit about his running. His mom comes in from time to time, and catches me up on his progress. I have made a point of telling her over time that I think she has raised one of the nicest boys I have ever met. I know that makes her feel good.
Every now and then I see AS running, or run into him at the grocery store, and he always asks about my running and progress. Yes, we check in with each other on our running. I think it's cool that he inquires about how I'm doing.
Now we come to yesterday. AS came into the store. I knew he bought shoes a few weeks ago, but this was a different visit. He wanted to tell me he is heading off to college this week. He wanted to come in, say good bye, and thank me for all the help I have given him. I told him it was my pleasure. I asked how his mom was doing. She's been a bit emotional, because now both her kids will be out in the world. He assured me he would be back at Thanksgiving for new shoes, and to catch me up on life. We shook hands, and off he went. I went into the back room and cried a bit. It felt like an old friend was moving on.
Again, I write a story like this, because I think those of us in the running specialty business have a unique relationship with our customers. We are advisor, coach, friend, sales person, and so much more to a good many folks. I doubt we have this kind of relationship with the folks at a big box store. We form a bond which is special, and it is truly one of the best parts of my job.
Whether he runs marathons, does Tris, or just jogs now and then, I hope AS does well with his running. I know he will do well in life. He is a good guy, with a level head on his shoulders.
Charlie
When I first worked with AS, he was looking for shoes for hist first marathon. AS comes from a very nice family, so I got to know his mom as well in the process. She would talk to me about his goals, and how she wanted to encourage him. I offered advice to both. I figured the runner not only needs advice, but the support crew needs some too.
For his first marathon, his mom was going to follow him around the course on her bike, but she knew she couldn't go everywhere. She made a sign with his name on it, and asked if I could hold it up and cheer him on race day. We had a cheer section, so I was happy to do it.
On race day I saw him coming down the road. We were at mile 15, so I figured this would be a tough stretch for him. I got the sign, the cowbell, and the the crew ready to cheer him on. He flashed a smile and a wave as he went by.
Later, not only did his mom thanks us, but AS came into the store to tell me that he was at a low point in the race when we saw him, and that cheering section boosted his spirits, and he was able to keep going. I thought that was awfully nice of both of them to thank me. I was happy to do it.
Months later, AS ran Chicago. This time, his mom was worried about how to get around. I went over the course map, and where along the route she could easily get to. Again, another successful race for AS. Again, I was thanked for my help.
Since then, AS comes in to order his shoes, and talk a bit about his running. His mom comes in from time to time, and catches me up on his progress. I have made a point of telling her over time that I think she has raised one of the nicest boys I have ever met. I know that makes her feel good.
Every now and then I see AS running, or run into him at the grocery store, and he always asks about my running and progress. Yes, we check in with each other on our running. I think it's cool that he inquires about how I'm doing.
Now we come to yesterday. AS came into the store. I knew he bought shoes a few weeks ago, but this was a different visit. He wanted to tell me he is heading off to college this week. He wanted to come in, say good bye, and thank me for all the help I have given him. I told him it was my pleasure. I asked how his mom was doing. She's been a bit emotional, because now both her kids will be out in the world. He assured me he would be back at Thanksgiving for new shoes, and to catch me up on life. We shook hands, and off he went. I went into the back room and cried a bit. It felt like an old friend was moving on.
Again, I write a story like this, because I think those of us in the running specialty business have a unique relationship with our customers. We are advisor, coach, friend, sales person, and so much more to a good many folks. I doubt we have this kind of relationship with the folks at a big box store. We form a bond which is special, and it is truly one of the best parts of my job.
Whether he runs marathons, does Tris, or just jogs now and then, I hope AS does well with his running. I know he will do well in life. He is a good guy, with a level head on his shoulders.
Charlie
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Long Run Quest
My quest for a good long long run during this training is still elusive. The goal this week was a 5 hour run. The result was a 2 1/2 hour run. My right knee was bothering me this week, and gave me some trouble of the run. I could feel the adjustments I was making was hurting my hips, so I ended the run 1/2 hours into it. Still I am pretty happy I made it 9 miles in that amount of time.
Time to let the knee feel better before the next really long run. Shorter runs don't seem to be a problem.
Charlie
Time to let the knee feel better before the next really long run. Shorter runs don't seem to be a problem.
Charlie
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Encouraging the Next Generation
How do we encourage the next generation of runners? This is something I deal with fairly often. In my community there are strong running programs in schools and churches for young runners. In one area school, there are over 100 kids on the track and field and cross country teams(note: only a few get to compete). I am very fortunate to work with some wonderful kids who come in for shoes and advice.
There are some kids I have special affection for. These are the ones who so truly love running and everything about running. They are the running geeks who can tell you what time Pre ran in the 1972 Olympics. It's very cool to help these kids year after year. They are respectful, fun and you can see the love of running in them.
Let me tell you about JB. JB lives in a small town in Indiana. He runs track and cross country for his local high school. He is very good, and is always striving to be better. He comes in every couple of months, and he specifically wants to work with me to get his shoes. Why me?
I take the time to listen to what he wants to accomplish. I'm able to verify or correct something he has learned about shoes. I check his gait(even though he doesn't need it). He is a guy who loves running, and wants to work with someone who loves running. All I want to do is encourage him.
Yesterday he and his mom came in. Seems they called ahead to see when I would be working. He wanted to get some shoes, but he also wanted to talk about his summer vacation. As he wore his Pre shirt, he told me about the journey to Eugene, OR to visit Haywood Field - hallowed ground for track and field guys. Seems the day he visited, the gates to the field were closed. Soon he was talking to a grounds worker, who let him into the stadium, and JB got to run on the track that so many tracks greats have run.
JB was so thrilled to do this, and as he told me, I felt just as excited for him. How great that someone let him do this. How great that someone would encourage him like this. I too wanted to do something for him, and I did.
Recently we found a box of old track and field magazines. Someone had left them in the store(who knows why). When I say old, I mean these were from the 1970s. We found a home for the box, but kept one in the store. As JB told me his story, I knew what I wanted to do. I found the copy of that magazine, which by the way had a cover story on Steve Prefontaine, and told JB he could have it.
JB lit up and looked so thrilled to get this. His mother told me I didn't have to do that. I told her the groundskeeper didn't have to let him into run, but JB is such a good kid, I just wanted to do something nice. As he thumbed through the magazine, JB told me how he had been getting faster, and mixed in more stories of the trip to Eugene. He was on Cloud Nine.
We eventually figured out which shoes would work for his cross country season. As they left the store, he turned around, and thanked me for everything. JB is a senior in high school this year. Next year he will be off to college. I've watched many a kid come and go in my store, some I miss a great deal, because they are such good kids. JB is one I will miss very much.
I tell you this, because I am hoping that if there is a young runner out there, please find a way to encourage their running and love of the sport.
Charlie
There are some kids I have special affection for. These are the ones who so truly love running and everything about running. They are the running geeks who can tell you what time Pre ran in the 1972 Olympics. It's very cool to help these kids year after year. They are respectful, fun and you can see the love of running in them.
Let me tell you about JB. JB lives in a small town in Indiana. He runs track and cross country for his local high school. He is very good, and is always striving to be better. He comes in every couple of months, and he specifically wants to work with me to get his shoes. Why me?
I take the time to listen to what he wants to accomplish. I'm able to verify or correct something he has learned about shoes. I check his gait(even though he doesn't need it). He is a guy who loves running, and wants to work with someone who loves running. All I want to do is encourage him.
Yesterday he and his mom came in. Seems they called ahead to see when I would be working. He wanted to get some shoes, but he also wanted to talk about his summer vacation. As he wore his Pre shirt, he told me about the journey to Eugene, OR to visit Haywood Field - hallowed ground for track and field guys. Seems the day he visited, the gates to the field were closed. Soon he was talking to a grounds worker, who let him into the stadium, and JB got to run on the track that so many tracks greats have run.
JB was so thrilled to do this, and as he told me, I felt just as excited for him. How great that someone let him do this. How great that someone would encourage him like this. I too wanted to do something for him, and I did.
Recently we found a box of old track and field magazines. Someone had left them in the store(who knows why). When I say old, I mean these were from the 1970s. We found a home for the box, but kept one in the store. As JB told me his story, I knew what I wanted to do. I found the copy of that magazine, which by the way had a cover story on Steve Prefontaine, and told JB he could have it.
JB lit up and looked so thrilled to get this. His mother told me I didn't have to do that. I told her the groundskeeper didn't have to let him into run, but JB is such a good kid, I just wanted to do something nice. As he thumbed through the magazine, JB told me how he had been getting faster, and mixed in more stories of the trip to Eugene. He was on Cloud Nine.
We eventually figured out which shoes would work for his cross country season. As they left the store, he turned around, and thanked me for everything. JB is a senior in high school this year. Next year he will be off to college. I've watched many a kid come and go in my store, some I miss a great deal, because they are such good kids. JB is one I will miss very much.
I tell you this, because I am hoping that if there is a young runner out there, please find a way to encourage their running and love of the sport.
Charlie
Monday, August 12, 2013
A Multitude of Thoughts
I haven't posted in a while. To be honest, I didn't feel like writing, but today I have quite a bit to say. This is a series of random thoughts.....
1) 40 days until the marathon - so how has the training been going? I had a horrible 4 hour run attempt a couple weeks ago. Still the running has gone well. This week the goal is to run a 5 hour run. I know I am over a month from the marathon, but I also know my body. In a couple weeks, I will try another 4 hour run, before a true taper.
2) Running stores as a community center. Yes, the basic fact is a running store is a retail business. Everything they do is designed to generate business. In addition though, it can serve as the heart of the running community. Training programs, fun runs, workshops, all bring people together. Running stores make a mistake when they take the community for granted. A community is more than Facebook or Twitter postings, it how you actually relate to the community.
3) Watching runners. Every Saturday I head out on the Monon and pass out water to runners. I love doing this. It gives me a connection to the folks out there running. It allows me to just watch. I like to see how people are running. I try to figure out what their goals are, how they run as they are running. It's very exciting to me.
4) Enjoying running. It has taken me a while, but this year I am enjoying my running again. I spoke with a 63 year old man the other day, who had taken time off from injury. He told me how discouraged he is that he isn't the runner he used to be. I told him that is something I have struggled with. At 50 I understand what diminished running can be. At some point though, you accept the runner you are, and stop fighting the runner you were. As I told the gentleman, we are still out there running, which is better than most of us.
5) I love the Monon Trail, but after a marathon training all summer, I'm a bit tired running on it.
6) I love the Canal Towpath. It is ideal if you want a slow run.
7) While I don't miss living in Chicago, I do miss the Lakefront Path.
Charlie
1) 40 days until the marathon - so how has the training been going? I had a horrible 4 hour run attempt a couple weeks ago. Still the running has gone well. This week the goal is to run a 5 hour run. I know I am over a month from the marathon, but I also know my body. In a couple weeks, I will try another 4 hour run, before a true taper.
2) Running stores as a community center. Yes, the basic fact is a running store is a retail business. Everything they do is designed to generate business. In addition though, it can serve as the heart of the running community. Training programs, fun runs, workshops, all bring people together. Running stores make a mistake when they take the community for granted. A community is more than Facebook or Twitter postings, it how you actually relate to the community.
3) Watching runners. Every Saturday I head out on the Monon and pass out water to runners. I love doing this. It gives me a connection to the folks out there running. It allows me to just watch. I like to see how people are running. I try to figure out what their goals are, how they run as they are running. It's very exciting to me.
4) Enjoying running. It has taken me a while, but this year I am enjoying my running again. I spoke with a 63 year old man the other day, who had taken time off from injury. He told me how discouraged he is that he isn't the runner he used to be. I told him that is something I have struggled with. At 50 I understand what diminished running can be. At some point though, you accept the runner you are, and stop fighting the runner you were. As I told the gentleman, we are still out there running, which is better than most of us.
5) I love the Monon Trail, but after a marathon training all summer, I'm a bit tired running on it.
6) I love the Canal Towpath. It is ideal if you want a slow run.
7) While I don't miss living in Chicago, I do miss the Lakefront Path.
Charlie
Monday, July 22, 2013
No Olympic Boycott
A number of LGBT activists are calling for a boycott of the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. Recently the Russian government has outlawed what they call pro-gay propaganda. There can be no gay pride demonstrations, talk about gay people in a positive light, no public displays of affection, in short - any thing which is deemed pro-gay. Jail is the penalty for violating the law. The International Olympic Committee says they are working with the Russians to allow openly lesbian and gay athletes to compete.
I say let the open athletes compete, and let's see some pro-gay action. If the Russians want to risk worldwide embarrassment and humiliation - good. Let the world see how cruel Putin and his cronies are. My guess is the Russians won't risk jailing gay people during the Olympics. In fact, I would be a good deal of money on it. They want the world to see happy, shiny Russian faces, not angry gay/army clashes. Anyone want to take me up on this bet?
Charlie
I say let the open athletes compete, and let's see some pro-gay action. If the Russians want to risk worldwide embarrassment and humiliation - good. Let the world see how cruel Putin and his cronies are. My guess is the Russians won't risk jailing gay people during the Olympics. In fact, I would be a good deal of money on it. They want the world to see happy, shiny Russian faces, not angry gay/army clashes. Anyone want to take me up on this bet?
Charlie
Sunday, July 21, 2013
Marathon Countdown: 2 Months
As of this writing two months from today I will take off on my next marathon adventure. This is a good time to take stock of my training. I've been very happy with my running. I feel good. My longest runs are yet to come, but I was very happy with the 10 mile run I did a week ago. The heat and humidity have been rough, but I've managed to work through those.
What do I need to do at this point? Two things - keep running, and stay healthy. Seems easy, isn't always.
Yesterday the Community First Fox Cities Marathon folks released a video tour of the course. First impression is lots of turns. That can be a challenge. Still it looks mostly flat, not very shady. Of course I'm not too worried about that in September. Lots of residential areas to go through. This won't be a crowded marathon, so I think there will be a lot of alone spots.
I wrote about not using the GPS the other day. I'm going to throw in another techie issue - the iPod. I haven't liked running with it this go round. I find the runs I have without it are better and more enjoyable. Of course with a 4 hour run looming, I may need it a little bit.
So with the countdown really in action now....so far all systems are go.
Charlie
What do I need to do at this point? Two things - keep running, and stay healthy. Seems easy, isn't always.
Yesterday the Community First Fox Cities Marathon folks released a video tour of the course. First impression is lots of turns. That can be a challenge. Still it looks mostly flat, not very shady. Of course I'm not too worried about that in September. Lots of residential areas to go through. This won't be a crowded marathon, so I think there will be a lot of alone spots.
I wrote about not using the GPS the other day. I'm going to throw in another techie issue - the iPod. I haven't liked running with it this go round. I find the runs I have without it are better and more enjoyable. Of course with a 4 hour run looming, I may need it a little bit.
So with the countdown really in action now....so far all systems are go.
Charlie
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
What Drives You?
On a hot, and humid day like today, it's easy to stay indoors. Days like this can be brutal out on the road or trail. Still on those days, I think one question to ask is what drives you to run?
I spoke with a gentleman yesterday who runs 4-6 miles a day, seven days a week. He told me he does it to stay alive. He has battled high cholesterol, and running helps him keep it in check. He doesn't race, but he used to. He loves running. He misses running 10 miles a day, but time has a way of reducing our miles - he's 65. He is currently a 9:00/mile pace runner. He told me he walks more now, and when he hits the 10:00/mile pace he may stop running. I told him not to, because at least he is out there running. That's more than most people.
When I started running, it was to lose weight. That was my motivation. Time have changed that, because I see running differently now. What drives me is a sense of accomplishing something. Some days, it's the desire to be out on my own and just be alone with my thoughts. Some days it's because I think it's what I do to feel normal. Other days, I do it to push my body one more step. The common theme for me is that I keep moving forward.
I am running more this year, than I have the last two years, and I am a happier runner for it. Races keep me in check. Marathons, challenge me.
What drives you?
Charlie
I spoke with a gentleman yesterday who runs 4-6 miles a day, seven days a week. He told me he does it to stay alive. He has battled high cholesterol, and running helps him keep it in check. He doesn't race, but he used to. He loves running. He misses running 10 miles a day, but time has a way of reducing our miles - he's 65. He is currently a 9:00/mile pace runner. He told me he walks more now, and when he hits the 10:00/mile pace he may stop running. I told him not to, because at least he is out there running. That's more than most people.
When I started running, it was to lose weight. That was my motivation. Time have changed that, because I see running differently now. What drives me is a sense of accomplishing something. Some days, it's the desire to be out on my own and just be alone with my thoughts. Some days it's because I think it's what I do to feel normal. Other days, I do it to push my body one more step. The common theme for me is that I keep moving forward.
I am running more this year, than I have the last two years, and I am a happier runner for it. Races keep me in check. Marathons, challenge me.
What drives you?
Charlie
Monday, July 15, 2013
A Letter to My Forerunner 110
Dear Garmin Forerunner 110,
What can I say, we have had some wonderful runs together. You have shown me the wonders of running, be it showing my pace, my miles logged, where I ran, etc. You have timed me, when I needed to be timed. You have uploaded info which details my fastest and slowest pace. You were kind enough to map my run for me.
Here's the thing though.....I'm just not that in to you anymore. You see, I'm more worried about what my pace is, when I should be worried about how I am running. I feel like I'm looking at you for some sort of validation, and in return, I just see numbers going and going. Really though, it's not you, it's me. I just don't want to know what my pace is every second of my run.
Last week's long run was nice, because I wasn't worried about was I hitting my pace. I find when I worry about it, I'm not doing it. So I've made a decision. I'm going to cut back on using you. We can call it a break, though I will confess, I may see someone else. There's a hot Timex I've had my eye on, and all it does is keep time. I know, I know, it seems cruel, but I really think technology is not making be a better runner.
Oh, we'll still see each other. I just can't commit to the longer runs with you. I want to feel freer than I am. I hope you understand.
Love,
Charlie
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Charlie,
You suck, and your wrist is a bit stinky when you run.
Yours,
Forerunner 110
What can I say, we have had some wonderful runs together. You have shown me the wonders of running, be it showing my pace, my miles logged, where I ran, etc. You have timed me, when I needed to be timed. You have uploaded info which details my fastest and slowest pace. You were kind enough to map my run for me.
Here's the thing though.....I'm just not that in to you anymore. You see, I'm more worried about what my pace is, when I should be worried about how I am running. I feel like I'm looking at you for some sort of validation, and in return, I just see numbers going and going. Really though, it's not you, it's me. I just don't want to know what my pace is every second of my run.
Last week's long run was nice, because I wasn't worried about was I hitting my pace. I find when I worry about it, I'm not doing it. So I've made a decision. I'm going to cut back on using you. We can call it a break, though I will confess, I may see someone else. There's a hot Timex I've had my eye on, and all it does is keep time. I know, I know, it seems cruel, but I really think technology is not making be a better runner.
Oh, we'll still see each other. I just can't commit to the longer runs with you. I want to feel freer than I am. I hope you understand.
Love,
Charlie
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Charlie,
You suck, and your wrist is a bit stinky when you run.
Yours,
Forerunner 110
The Best - Again
Refresher time.....
There is no best running shoe. There is no shoe which will assure you a PR in your next race. It doesn't matter what shoe I wear. It doesn't matter what shoe "most people buy." There is no weeklyBCS ranking of shoes to determine to best. Sorry....it goes back to what I have said for over 6 years in the business - the best shoe is the one that fits the best and works the best for you - period.
Can you tell what my weekend was like?
Charlie
There is no best running shoe. There is no shoe which will assure you a PR in your next race. It doesn't matter what shoe I wear. It doesn't matter what shoe "most people buy." There is no weeklyBCS ranking of shoes to determine to best. Sorry....it goes back to what I have said for over 6 years in the business - the best shoe is the one that fits the best and works the best for you - period.
Can you tell what my weekend was like?
Charlie
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Two Runs
This week I had two very different runs, though both were designed to do the same thing. Earlier last week I attempted to run my long run - 3 hours or 10 miles. That run ended after 50 minutes. Running in the humidity was like running with a sponge over my mouth. It also turned into an angry run, where I was just so frustrated with life, I couldn't concentrate on life.
Run #2 was better. It was a cooler day, less humidity, and I didn't use the GPS, just the watch. Technology is a wonderful thing, but sometimes, you don't need to know what pace you are running at every given moment. Sorry Garmin. So I ran.
This run was much better. I felt freer to run, since I wasn't always looking at the GPS. When I run without the GPS, I feel I can focus more on the run, and my body, and what I am doing. I finished in 2:24, and ran 10 miles, which is pretty good for me. More importantly I was happy with the run.
I told my training program yesterday, that we have to improvise when we run. We can't be a slave to the program. If your long run isn't going well, scrap it, and just run. You can do the long run the next go round. It really doesn't matter if you do your long run on Saturday or some other day. I know we have busy lives, but just figure it out, and know you have some freedom.
Charlie
Run #2 was better. It was a cooler day, less humidity, and I didn't use the GPS, just the watch. Technology is a wonderful thing, but sometimes, you don't need to know what pace you are running at every given moment. Sorry Garmin. So I ran.
This run was much better. I felt freer to run, since I wasn't always looking at the GPS. When I run without the GPS, I feel I can focus more on the run, and my body, and what I am doing. I finished in 2:24, and ran 10 miles, which is pretty good for me. More importantly I was happy with the run.
I told my training program yesterday, that we have to improvise when we run. We can't be a slave to the program. If your long run isn't going well, scrap it, and just run. You can do the long run the next go round. It really doesn't matter if you do your long run on Saturday or some other day. I know we have busy lives, but just figure it out, and know you have some freedom.
Charlie
Friday, July 05, 2013
Firecracker 6 2013
Yesterday was the annual running of the Firecracker 6, a 6 mile race through downtown Indianapolis. What started with 250 runners in 2010, is now up to around 1,000 registered runners. Not bad. upfront, I will be honest, I have run 3 out of the 4 races, but this is not my favorite race. In fact, I don't like the course. I needed a 6 mile run yesterday, and this fit the bill.
The plus side to the race is I got to run with my friend Kris. Typically when I run with friends, that means we start together. Kris and I ran the entire course yesterday. The 6 miles was spent catching up, and just chatting.
Wait though, this was also a training run, so how did that go? I finished in 1:33, so I was at a decent pace. This was the slowest Firecracker I have done, but I was viewing it in terms of marathon training. For the marathon training, I was where I wanted to be pace-wise. This is a hot and humid race, so I walked more than I care too, but it I just felt uncomfortable, and need more walking.
My biggest complaint about this race was finally resolved. When we ran the first one, Mark was with us running, and he got frustrated that there weren't any port-a-potties on the course. This was the first year they had one on the course(Mile 3). About time folks!
I think if I am going to truly love running in Indianapolis, I need to design a course I like. Why do all the courses have to take us through the ugly industrial parts of the city. It makes it sooooo boring(500 Mini Marathon). At least the Monumental just skirts you around those parts.
I finished in 797th place out of over 800 finishers. I'll take it, a Kenyan I am not.
Charlie
The plus side to the race is I got to run with my friend Kris. Typically when I run with friends, that means we start together. Kris and I ran the entire course yesterday. The 6 miles was spent catching up, and just chatting.
Wait though, this was also a training run, so how did that go? I finished in 1:33, so I was at a decent pace. This was the slowest Firecracker I have done, but I was viewing it in terms of marathon training. For the marathon training, I was where I wanted to be pace-wise. This is a hot and humid race, so I walked more than I care too, but it I just felt uncomfortable, and need more walking.
My biggest complaint about this race was finally resolved. When we ran the first one, Mark was with us running, and he got frustrated that there weren't any port-a-potties on the course. This was the first year they had one on the course(Mile 3). About time folks!
I think if I am going to truly love running in Indianapolis, I need to design a course I like. Why do all the courses have to take us through the ugly industrial parts of the city. It makes it sooooo boring(500 Mini Marathon). At least the Monumental just skirts you around those parts.
I finished in 797th place out of over 800 finishers. I'll take it, a Kenyan I am not.
Charlie
Thursday, June 27, 2013
30 Years to Yesterday
For a few moments, I'm not going to talk about running, or coffee for that matter. This is a rare departure on this blog, and most of you will indulge me this posting. I feel I need to express myself on a deeper level.
30 years ago this month I entered life as an openly gay man. Now to be honest, the previous 20 years were pretty gay, but my coming out was an important moment for me. David Ferguson may not have realized it then, but when he kissed me(and vice versa), back in the little practice room at School of the Arts, the real me was awakened, and my inner joy was truly born. Yup, who knew a make out session could do all that.
My journey over the next 30 years was difficult at some points, and tremendously happy in other points. There has been one constant though, my firm belief that my orientation doesn't mean I take a back seat to anyone.
The year after coming out, I endured the horror of rape. I went home with a guy, who I thought was a pretty decent guy, and in turn he raped me. The ugliness of that day haunts me. It doesn't define me though. I was told very early on, and it took me a while to understand this, but it's true - I was not responsible for what happened that day. I was still a person of worth, and not a piece of garbage as I was treated by that man.
The news though got worse. 1985 - I was misdiagnosed as being HIV+. I have to mention the misdiagnosis up front, because I don't want anyone to think I am still HIV+. I do, though, live with that diagnosis for 2.5 years. This period was I learned how little society cared for gay people.
The day I got my second test "confirming" my status, the State of Indiana health "counselor" told me to prepare to die. I asked if there was anyone or group to go to. She told me no. Little did I know the Lesbian and Gay Community were founding groups which would not only provide support on a mental level, but created organizations which took care of our medical, housing, nutritional, financial, and any other needs we could think of. We took care of our own, because we knew this wasn't "God's punishment." We knew this was a public health issue, and our country at the time didn't care. We were still the second class citizens who were "perverts" and freaks. We were "Queers" and not in that good way.
1988 I came out of the closet even further. I was elected the first president of OUT, Indiana University's LGBT organization. With the hard work of great people like Jeff Bass, Chad Brown, Nora Fergus, Grant Kerr, Chad Fisher, and our straight allies, like Jennifer Rudd and Pamela Freeman, we worked hard over the next two years, to let the university community know that lesbian and gay students were equal to anyone else on campus.
Sexual orientation was put into the non-discriminatory policies of the university. We created Pride Week and the Miss Gay IU Pageant. We remembered those in our past who perished during the Holocaust. We laid the ground work for the LGBT Student Support Center. We demanded a place at the table, and we got it. No one gave us anything, we worked hard for it.
We also remembered those of our friends and loved ones who dies of AIDS related causes. We brought the NAMES Project Quilt to Indiana for the first time in 1990. We raised over $16,000 for community AIDS organization with our efforts.
My post IU life was very different. For a time I lived in Nashville, TN. At that time the closet door was barely open a crack. I had joined a gay men's support group, and quickly learned how self loathing some gay men could be. One member of the group killed himself, because of the "shame" of his sexuality. I have never been ashamed of who I am, and it bothered me that someone would do this. I left the group shortly after this happened. I asked the counselor why he suggested I join. He thought I would be a role model for the group. That isn't a good reason to join a group. A support group should help you, not reinforce the negatives.
I did come out to my family while I was IU. It wasn't the more positive experience. My mom took it fairly hard. I'm not sure she was every comfortable with it. At the end of her life, she told me she just wanted me to be happy, and enjoy life.
Relationships have not always been easy, but then again they never are. I have had the one night stands, the stalker, the being alone, the love, the loss of love, and the love again. Six years ago, last week, I met Mark. We met online, hooked up(yup I will be blunt), dated, and fell in love. That love has endured a lot in the last six years. His health issues have been a source of hardship for us on many levels. He in turn has dealt with my work issues, and our move to my home state of Indiana, which has not gone well for him.
I have always been honest about my life and my relationships. It has caused me trouble in the workplace, because I have worked in the past with idiots who don't consider me equal. My dad told me many years ago, that I should marry a lesbian, that way no one would discriminate against me. I looked him in the eye and said, "Dad do you really think I would ALLOW anyone to discriminate against me?" HELL NO!
My 30 year journey has included wonderful friends, both gay and straight alike. One sadness for me came in 1994, when I lost my childhood friend Dave Wagle. We had gone through middle and high school together. We were competitive with each other in choir(of course I was the better singer). We lost touch when we went to college, but found each other when I moved to Chicago in 1992. He had AIDS and was dying.
This was still at a time of great stigma, even in our community. Many of his friends had abandoned him. I wondered why he had so few visitors in the hospital. He told me his friends didn't want to see what would happen to them. I hated that. I made sure everytime we were together we did something fun. We did lunch at the old Marshall Field's Walnut Room. We went shopping. We had a cocktail or two. We did what friends do.
Dave passed away while I was in Italy in school, during he summer of 1994. When I spoke to his mother, I told her I didn't realize how close he was to dying. She told me he asked about often while I was gone. I wished I could have been there for him at the end. Still he knew how much I valued our friendship. He is buried a few miles away from where my family had a cottage at Lake Michigan. He had visited us there a few times, and I know he loved that area. I was touched he wanted to be buried there.
When the world hasn't been good to gay people, it has always been important to surround myself with friends. I am blessed to have had FABULOUS friends. Naming them is a horrible exercise, because I know I would forget someone, and hurt their feelings. I do need to name two people who were crucial to helping me develop as a gay man - Chris Runge and Marshall Shore. Oh how I wish these two knew each other.
Chris was the first person I told about that memorable kiss, and that I was gay. Of course, he would come out later in life, but he was so supportive and happy for me. I am so happy my first coming out was that positive.
Marshall I met while I was at IU. He went to Purdue(not his fault I'm sure). He was a friend of a friend, and then we became friends. He taught me about being FABULOUS! He and I have shared holidays together(my first cooking a thanksgiving turkey comes to mind in my blond wig and pearls). We have gone clubbing together(Gauze Boy). We have shared our joys and our sorrows with each other. When I ran my first marathon, I chose Phoenix, so he could be there to support me. He is my gay brother, and I love him dearly.
This 30 year experience has made me a happy and proud gay man. Still though, Mark and I face a country where we have been second class citizens. Personally I believe we are second to no one. We are equal. Thanks to the DOMA and Prop. 8 decisions by the US Supreme Court, lesbians and gays have been told that we are equal, and while our efforts need to continue, in the eyes of the highest court in the land, we are not second class citizens.
This decision will not stop the haters from trying to beat us back. History though is on our side. Mark and I will be married. It will be recognized. Our marriage won't be a "skim milk" marriage(quoting Justice Ginsberg). As the chant goes, "We're here. We're queer. Get used to it."
I look forward to continuing to be a proud gay man, and continuing to fight for that place at the table.
Charlie
30 years ago this month I entered life as an openly gay man. Now to be honest, the previous 20 years were pretty gay, but my coming out was an important moment for me. David Ferguson may not have realized it then, but when he kissed me(and vice versa), back in the little practice room at School of the Arts, the real me was awakened, and my inner joy was truly born. Yup, who knew a make out session could do all that.
My journey over the next 30 years was difficult at some points, and tremendously happy in other points. There has been one constant though, my firm belief that my orientation doesn't mean I take a back seat to anyone.
The year after coming out, I endured the horror of rape. I went home with a guy, who I thought was a pretty decent guy, and in turn he raped me. The ugliness of that day haunts me. It doesn't define me though. I was told very early on, and it took me a while to understand this, but it's true - I was not responsible for what happened that day. I was still a person of worth, and not a piece of garbage as I was treated by that man.
The news though got worse. 1985 - I was misdiagnosed as being HIV+. I have to mention the misdiagnosis up front, because I don't want anyone to think I am still HIV+. I do, though, live with that diagnosis for 2.5 years. This period was I learned how little society cared for gay people.
The day I got my second test "confirming" my status, the State of Indiana health "counselor" told me to prepare to die. I asked if there was anyone or group to go to. She told me no. Little did I know the Lesbian and Gay Community were founding groups which would not only provide support on a mental level, but created organizations which took care of our medical, housing, nutritional, financial, and any other needs we could think of. We took care of our own, because we knew this wasn't "God's punishment." We knew this was a public health issue, and our country at the time didn't care. We were still the second class citizens who were "perverts" and freaks. We were "Queers" and not in that good way.
1988 I came out of the closet even further. I was elected the first president of OUT, Indiana University's LGBT organization. With the hard work of great people like Jeff Bass, Chad Brown, Nora Fergus, Grant Kerr, Chad Fisher, and our straight allies, like Jennifer Rudd and Pamela Freeman, we worked hard over the next two years, to let the university community know that lesbian and gay students were equal to anyone else on campus.
Sexual orientation was put into the non-discriminatory policies of the university. We created Pride Week and the Miss Gay IU Pageant. We remembered those in our past who perished during the Holocaust. We laid the ground work for the LGBT Student Support Center. We demanded a place at the table, and we got it. No one gave us anything, we worked hard for it.
We also remembered those of our friends and loved ones who dies of AIDS related causes. We brought the NAMES Project Quilt to Indiana for the first time in 1990. We raised over $16,000 for community AIDS organization with our efforts.
My post IU life was very different. For a time I lived in Nashville, TN. At that time the closet door was barely open a crack. I had joined a gay men's support group, and quickly learned how self loathing some gay men could be. One member of the group killed himself, because of the "shame" of his sexuality. I have never been ashamed of who I am, and it bothered me that someone would do this. I left the group shortly after this happened. I asked the counselor why he suggested I join. He thought I would be a role model for the group. That isn't a good reason to join a group. A support group should help you, not reinforce the negatives.
I did come out to my family while I was IU. It wasn't the more positive experience. My mom took it fairly hard. I'm not sure she was every comfortable with it. At the end of her life, she told me she just wanted me to be happy, and enjoy life.
Relationships have not always been easy, but then again they never are. I have had the one night stands, the stalker, the being alone, the love, the loss of love, and the love again. Six years ago, last week, I met Mark. We met online, hooked up(yup I will be blunt), dated, and fell in love. That love has endured a lot in the last six years. His health issues have been a source of hardship for us on many levels. He in turn has dealt with my work issues, and our move to my home state of Indiana, which has not gone well for him.
I have always been honest about my life and my relationships. It has caused me trouble in the workplace, because I have worked in the past with idiots who don't consider me equal. My dad told me many years ago, that I should marry a lesbian, that way no one would discriminate against me. I looked him in the eye and said, "Dad do you really think I would ALLOW anyone to discriminate against me?" HELL NO!
My 30 year journey has included wonderful friends, both gay and straight alike. One sadness for me came in 1994, when I lost my childhood friend Dave Wagle. We had gone through middle and high school together. We were competitive with each other in choir(of course I was the better singer). We lost touch when we went to college, but found each other when I moved to Chicago in 1992. He had AIDS and was dying.
This was still at a time of great stigma, even in our community. Many of his friends had abandoned him. I wondered why he had so few visitors in the hospital. He told me his friends didn't want to see what would happen to them. I hated that. I made sure everytime we were together we did something fun. We did lunch at the old Marshall Field's Walnut Room. We went shopping. We had a cocktail or two. We did what friends do.
Dave passed away while I was in Italy in school, during he summer of 1994. When I spoke to his mother, I told her I didn't realize how close he was to dying. She told me he asked about often while I was gone. I wished I could have been there for him at the end. Still he knew how much I valued our friendship. He is buried a few miles away from where my family had a cottage at Lake Michigan. He had visited us there a few times, and I know he loved that area. I was touched he wanted to be buried there.
When the world hasn't been good to gay people, it has always been important to surround myself with friends. I am blessed to have had FABULOUS friends. Naming them is a horrible exercise, because I know I would forget someone, and hurt their feelings. I do need to name two people who were crucial to helping me develop as a gay man - Chris Runge and Marshall Shore. Oh how I wish these two knew each other.
Chris was the first person I told about that memorable kiss, and that I was gay. Of course, he would come out later in life, but he was so supportive and happy for me. I am so happy my first coming out was that positive.
Marshall I met while I was at IU. He went to Purdue(not his fault I'm sure). He was a friend of a friend, and then we became friends. He taught me about being FABULOUS
This 30 year experience has made me a happy and proud gay man. Still though, Mark and I face a country where we have been second class citizens. Personally I believe we are second to no one. We are equal. Thanks to the DOMA and Prop. 8 decisions by the US Supreme Court, lesbians and gays have been told that we are equal, and while our efforts need to continue, in the eyes of the highest court in the land, we are not second class citizens.
This decision will not stop the haters from trying to beat us back. History though is on our side. Mark and I will be married. It will be recognized. Our marriage won't be a "skim milk" marriage(quoting Justice Ginsberg). As the chant goes, "We're here. We're queer. Get used to it."
I look forward to continuing to be a proud gay man, and continuing to fight for that place at the table.
Charlie
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Pacing in the Heat
Summer is CLEARLY here now, and so is the heat and the humidity. As I waded through the sauna like run today, I thought about how to pace myself. When the heat is like this, you don't want to go full out hard on a run. You need to pace yourself.
I was armed with water and a gel. Off I went on the Monon. I wanted to run between 45 minutes to an hour. I knew this would not be a fast run.
In my head I was working on staying at an easy pace. For me, I thought that should be a 15:15 pace. At the half way point, I was averaging a 15:25 pace. So now here is the issue; am I good with that, or do I pick it up a bit. I opted to pick it up.
At one point I was running at 14:04. Way too fast, and my body was telling me the heat would soon get me if I kept that up. I eased up, and just focused on running comfortable. This worked well, and in the end, I did 3.23 miles in a 15:00 pace. So while I was still ahead of goal pace, I wasn't tired or dehydrated.
I felt this was a pretty successful run.
Charlie
I was armed with water and a gel. Off I went on the Monon. I wanted to run between 45 minutes to an hour. I knew this would not be a fast run.
In my head I was working on staying at an easy pace. For me, I thought that should be a 15:15 pace. At the half way point, I was averaging a 15:25 pace. So now here is the issue; am I good with that, or do I pick it up a bit. I opted to pick it up.
At one point I was running at 14:04. Way too fast, and my body was telling me the heat would soon get me if I kept that up. I eased up, and just focused on running comfortable. This worked well, and in the end, I did 3.23 miles in a 15:00 pace. So while I was still ahead of goal pace, I wasn't tired or dehydrated.
I felt this was a pretty successful run.
Charlie
Monday, June 24, 2013
What's Wrong With Track and Field?
Over the weekend I saw video from Des Moines, IA, host to this year's US Track and Field Championships which disturbed me. I saw some of the best athletes in the world, giving their all to make the World Championship Team, in front very few spectators. This bothers me, because as I watch track and field meets from other parts of the world, I see fuller, if not full stadiums.
Des Moines is a track town. The Drake Relays are hosted there. Several NCAA Championships meets have been there. There is running history there.
I understand this is not an Olympic year. This may be part of the problem. We tend to pay attention to track and field, every four years, and then forget these athletes exist. It didn't always used to be like this.
In the early to mid 20th century, track meets garnered a lot of attention. One only needs to read the historical clippings about the great Jesse Owens to see there was plenty of attention to the meets. Of course, this was before television and 500 sport channels.
Competition for the sporting dollar is intense. Football and basketball dominate our country. Baseball and hockey come next. Soccer is still trying to gain traction.
What needs to happen to get track and field into the limelight? USA Track and Field(USATF), need only look in their backyard for what can help. Carmel, Indiana is an example of how to build interest in running - start them young.
In Carmel kids in elementary school have what are called "Pup Running" groups. Parents help coach kids to run, and set up small scale competitions. Kids love this, and it begins a feeder system into middle school and high school programs. Carmel High School is routinely a top running school in the state, and an elite program in the country. Well over 100 kids participate in track at the school, and also in cross country.
In Chicago, where I lived previously, there was little attention given to track. In fact ,when I helped Marathon Kids find a venue for their events, it is almost impossible to find something in the city. The suburbs is where running lives.
So is this an economic issue? Running, compared to other sports, is one of the cheapest to participate in. Shoes(and spikes), shirt, shorts, are your basic tools. You don't need pads, equipment, masks, balls, bats, etc. You need yourself. This would seem to be a good chance for inner city kids to participate. Yet, the suburbs are the hubs.
We have read now for decades that African American youth see sports such as football and basketball as ways out of economic hardship or poverty. Clearly, with the multi-million dollar contracts, that makes sense. I'm not saying track and field needs to have that kind of money going on(nor should it), but why can't there be an economic incentive for track and field?
Now I write this, and I understand, I don't know what outreach USATF has for growth. I will be critical though, at your national championship, you can't be happy to have NBC televise 4 hours on a Saturday of empty seats in a stadium. Not all communities are Eugene, OR(Tracktown USA), but still you have to get out there and fill those seats.
I know they are working on better financial rewards for athletes. I know athletes like Nick Symmonds are pushing for of the money that is already out there. Both are good moves, now we need the incentive to get people to watch track and field.
Charlie
Des Moines is a track town. The Drake Relays are hosted there. Several NCAA Championships meets have been there. There is running history there.
I understand this is not an Olympic year. This may be part of the problem. We tend to pay attention to track and field, every four years, and then forget these athletes exist. It didn't always used to be like this.
In the early to mid 20th century, track meets garnered a lot of attention. One only needs to read the historical clippings about the great Jesse Owens to see there was plenty of attention to the meets. Of course, this was before television and 500 sport channels.
Competition for the sporting dollar is intense. Football and basketball dominate our country. Baseball and hockey come next. Soccer is still trying to gain traction.
What needs to happen to get track and field into the limelight? USA Track and Field(USATF), need only look in their backyard for what can help. Carmel, Indiana is an example of how to build interest in running - start them young.
In Carmel kids in elementary school have what are called "Pup Running" groups. Parents help coach kids to run, and set up small scale competitions. Kids love this, and it begins a feeder system into middle school and high school programs. Carmel High School is routinely a top running school in the state, and an elite program in the country. Well over 100 kids participate in track at the school, and also in cross country.
In Chicago, where I lived previously, there was little attention given to track. In fact ,when I helped Marathon Kids find a venue for their events, it is almost impossible to find something in the city. The suburbs is where running lives.
So is this an economic issue? Running, compared to other sports, is one of the cheapest to participate in. Shoes(and spikes), shirt, shorts, are your basic tools. You don't need pads, equipment, masks, balls, bats, etc. You need yourself. This would seem to be a good chance for inner city kids to participate. Yet, the suburbs are the hubs.
We have read now for decades that African American youth see sports such as football and basketball as ways out of economic hardship or poverty. Clearly, with the multi-million dollar contracts, that makes sense. I'm not saying track and field needs to have that kind of money going on(nor should it), but why can't there be an economic incentive for track and field?
Now I write this, and I understand, I don't know what outreach USATF has for growth. I will be critical though, at your national championship, you can't be happy to have NBC televise 4 hours on a Saturday of empty seats in a stadium. Not all communities are Eugene, OR(Tracktown USA), but still you have to get out there and fill those seats.
I know they are working on better financial rewards for athletes. I know athletes like Nick Symmonds are pushing for of the money that is already out there. Both are good moves, now we need the incentive to get people to watch track and field.
Charlie
Sunday, June 23, 2013
Frankenstein Walk
After a long run(6+ miles), my feet, ankles and legs hurt. For about a day I walk like Frankenstein. I hate it. I have always hated it, but it's my reality. I believe part of the problem stems from the removal of tendons from my lower legs when I was an infant, in an effort to "cure" my Clubbed Foot issues.
Since my range of motion is minimal in one foot, and pretty non existent in the other foot, I have no doubt this is what aggravates everything. Add to it my Arthritis, and you have a lot of pain potential. Now when I am running, I typically don't feel this pain until later in a run. The pain sets in the moment I stop running. This probably happens because the muscles are now resting and the inflammation has a chance to kick into high gear.
So what makes it get better? Ironically being on my feet. Resting feels good, but then when I move the pain is horrible. If I can walk around a while, the pain isn't as intense, and I can walk with less limping. I just can't be on my feet all day.
There are days I wish there was a shot to make the pain go away.
Charlie
Since my range of motion is minimal in one foot, and pretty non existent in the other foot, I have no doubt this is what aggravates everything. Add to it my Arthritis, and you have a lot of pain potential. Now when I am running, I typically don't feel this pain until later in a run. The pain sets in the moment I stop running. This probably happens because the muscles are now resting and the inflammation has a chance to kick into high gear.
So what makes it get better? Ironically being on my feet. Resting feels good, but then when I move the pain is horrible. If I can walk around a while, the pain isn't as intense, and I can walk with less limping. I just can't be on my feet all day.
There are days I wish there was a shot to make the pain go away.
Charlie
Saturday, June 22, 2013
My 3rd Annual Gay Moment
Every Summer I share my gay running moment. Two years ago I talked about how I like the shirtless male runners. Last year I talked shorts. This year, I want to talk about who should and shouldn't be out there trying to look hot.
As I ran on this very humid morning, I saw all kinds of men out there. Now to be fair, it was hot and humid out there, and I don't want knock the guys who just want to be comfortable. I get it. For a brief moment, I thought about doffing my shirt. Then again....I think of others, and I know what they don't want to see.
So here is an idea of who should not be out there shirtless.
1) Hairy Men - Sorry, if you take your shirt off, and you look like a running forest, put the shirt back on.
2) More Wrinkles than a Shar Pei - While I am AARP eligible, I will never be old enough to run without a shirt. Bouncing wrinkles just is not right.
3) Painfully Ugly - It's one thing to be ugly ......
As I ran on this very humid morning, I saw all kinds of men out there. Now to be fair, it was hot and humid out there, and I don't want knock the guys who just want to be comfortable. I get it. For a brief moment, I thought about doffing my shirt. Then again....I think of others, and I know what they don't want to see.
So here is an idea of who should not be out there shirtless.
1) Hairy Men - Sorry, if you take your shirt off, and you look like a running forest, put the shirt back on.
2) More Wrinkles than a Shar Pei - While I am AARP eligible, I will never be old enough to run without a shirt. Bouncing wrinkles just is not right.
3) Painfully Ugly - It's one thing to be ugly ......
So....who should be out there shirtless for all of us to enjoy. Perfect example is Olympic Athlete Nick Symmonds.... While I appreciate Nick as a great runner, he is also a LGBT Equality Supporter, and one FINE looking guy.
Clearly I have some work to do before I doff my shirt and head out on the trail. Come on guys....you want to look hot out on the road - get to work!
Charlie
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Canal Towpath Run
Every now and then, I think it's good to get off the beaten path on a run. For me in Indianapolis. that means running on the Central Canal Towpath. This path was created in the 19th century as a waterway within the city.
As you can tell from the picture, it's a crushed limestone path that anyone can use. Yesterday I shared the path with bikers and runners, and the occasional turtles. Of course the turtles were working hard to keep up with me.
The path is 5.23 miles, starting in the Broad Ripple area, and ventures towards 30th St. You go through the woods behind Butler University and near the Indianapolis Museum of Art. I started in the Rocky Ripple neighborhood, and turned around right before the art museum. I also veered towards Butler University. I ran 3 miles.
Running on the towpath is very serene and calm. All I heard was the crunch of the limestone as I ran. Typically I run slower on this surface, and I was fine with that. This was about getting in a run, and enjoying it.
I encourage all my Indy friends to go for a run on the towpath....you'll love it.
Charlie
The path is 5.23 miles, starting in the Broad Ripple area, and ventures towards 30th St. You go through the woods behind Butler University and near the Indianapolis Museum of Art. I started in the Rocky Ripple neighborhood, and turned around right before the art museum. I also veered towards Butler University. I ran 3 miles.
Running on the towpath is very serene and calm. All I heard was the crunch of the limestone as I ran. Typically I run slower on this surface, and I was fine with that. This was about getting in a run, and enjoying it.
I encourage all my Indy friends to go for a run on the towpath....you'll love it.
Charlie
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