FleetFootedFrankie

My first post-Chicago run

2006-11-05T16:50:00.000-05:00

After watching and reading plenty of highlights from the New York City Marathon I decided to get out there and complete my first run since crossing the finish line in Chicago two weeks ago today.

The Garmin stayed home, but I have done the route before and know it was a 3.5 mile run. Didn't even make note of what time it was when I left the house so I don't know how long it took. But that doesn't matter right now anyway.

I plan to go out and by some winter running clothes this week as this will mark my first season of winter running. Last year when I took up running (almost a year ago to the day), I opted for the treadmill for the first few months. Can't imagine going back to the treadmill on a regular basis.

And I must say, I'm loving this sleeping in on Sunday morning thing.

Now that was fun

2006-10-29T12:10:00.000-05:00

Moments before the horn sounded I was very aware that I was about to take part in something incredibly special. I knew I was about to run one the world's biggest marathons and I knew the spectators had a well-deserved reputation for being very supportive. Yet I was still overwhelmed as I took my first steps across the start line, where I immediately realized the next 26.2 miles were going to redefine my idea of the word "special."

I crossed the start line about one minute after the official race clock thanks to my Preferred Start II corral and I think it was Van Halen's "Right Now" booming through the speakers. How appropriate and how motivating. Now, I am not an incredibly emotional person, or at least I didn't think I was, but wow was I ever overcome with emotion for the first few miles of this race.

While I was totally loving the energy of all the runners and spectators, I did my best to keep reminding myself to follow the advice of experienced marathoners who told this rookie not to go out too fast. I got to the first mile marker in 8 minutes, which is exactly what I wanted to do.

When we made the second left hand turn, south on State, I was on the right side of the pack heading into the intersection. Suddenly I heard shouts of "Frankie" even though my warm-up top was covering the sticker on my race shirt that had my name. Next thing I know I see my father, brother and sister. All three of them right up against the barricade and waving. My sister had not checked into her hotel until 1am that morning, but there she was bright and early with my dad and brother in the front row cheering me on just over a mile into the race. Talk about support!

I didn't think I would see them once, let alone so early into the race. I kept turning my head back to wave and actually had to wipe my eyes dry. And before I composed myself I see them about 2 miles later going north on Lasalle. I spotted them first this time and screamed, giving each a high five and fighting back the tears again.

5K - 24:19
Obviously I got caught up in the excitement and ran the first bit of the race a little too fast even though my first mile was right on pace. But I wasn't too concerned about being 41 seconds ahead of my pace after 5K.

My training program had me running 10 minutes and then taking a 1 minute walk break on long runs. But other running group members and myself adjusted that to 14 minutes of running and then a 1 minute walk break to correspond better with the water stations in Chicago based on our running pace. I felt a little embarassed taking my first walk break because people were cheering so loud and I didn't want them to think I was tired just 14 minutes into the race!

10K - 48:36
Okay, so looks like I am still ahead of my pace and actually speeding up. 1 minute and 24 seconds faster than my pace band suggested, but I was basically sticking right with the 3:30 pace group and not too concerned that this speed would cost me later in the race. I also think I took my first gel just after the 6 mile marker.

15K - 1:12:26
Yes, probably shouldn't be picking up my speed just yet, but I felt incredibly strong and was having the time of my life. (Guess the taper stuff really works). Two minutes and 34 seconds ahead of pace. Probably should slow things down for now. But by now my warm-up shirt has long since been tossed aside and I am not taking more than a few steps without hearing "Go Frankie", "Come on Frankie", "Looking good Frankie", "Fran-keyyyyyy" "Frank the Tank". I guess I lost track of how fast I was going. And it felt effortless at this point. I have never experienced anything like this before. I did my best to acknowledge everyone that called my name, either with a verbal thank you, a quick thumbs up, a thankful smile and nod, and even a high five sometimes.

20K - 1:36:55
Okay, now I'm 3 minutes and 5 seconds ahead of my pace. Way too fast and I tell myself to slow down and stick to my game plan because this pace would mean a sub 3:30 marathon, and while that sounds lovely, it is not my goal for this day. We just passed a lovely area (I think it was that turn from Hubbard to Orleans) - a nice tree-lined street where one house had AC/DC blasting through the speakers. How aweosme!

HALF - 1:42:13
I do the math in my head and realize I am on pace for a 3:24 marathon. But I feel so strong. Maybe I underestimated my ability. Possibly. But I think it was more because I was a rookie who definitely got caught up in the moment and ran the first half a bit too fast. I should've crossed the halfway point in 1:45:00. Instead, I am nearly 4 minutes ahead of pace, but I take comfort in the fact that I am feeling fantastic and know I have plenty of gas left in the tank. I also got excited at this checkpoint because I knew my family was tracking me through their phones and were getting the information.

25K - 2:02:13
Okay, almost done with this leg of the course that a lot of you seem to agree was not a whole lot of fun. Cleary I am stubborn because I haven't slowed down. But I am running consistently and still feel incredible.

30K - 2:28:10
It's now that I recall a 30K race I did in mid-August...a night time race in somewhat humid weather with poorly placed water stations. While I finished that race in great time I felt horrible after crossing the finish line. Not today. I'm still going strong and know the finish line is just over an hour away. Somewhere around the 20-mile mark a woman yelled out "Frankie you're so hot!" to which a fellow runner said "that's flattering" and I replied "flattering indeed." I know she was just trying to offer support, and it worked.

35K - 2:54:42
Okay, I'm working now. I'm feeling good, but I know I am working. No more high-fives for the spectators...sorry guys, I need to save every bit of energy I can. A few good things happened somewhere around this part of the course. I ran through an incredibly crowded intersection with the "Chariots of Fire" music on. AWEOSME AWESOME AWESOME. And I saw my family again. First my sister, also a marathoner, who later said she could see in my face that I was working much harder. She was right. Then my father, who decided to run along with me for what might have been 100 meters. He was proud and I was touched. Then my brother, who managed to get a nice picture of me while he was running backwards. I was just looking past him making sure he didn't topple over another runner.

From hear on out I keep filling my head with nothing but positive thoughts. It's this part of the race that I did the hill training for. This is crunch time. "Only just a few miles down the road" as John Parr's "Man in Motion" song says. And you know I was singing that in my head at this point.

40K - 3:22:15
Wow, I'm almost done. How awesome is this. Why are my calves so tight? I have been taking more walk breaks than I had scheduled. But man this stretch along Michigan seems long. Where's that right hand turn up the hill? Where's the next mile marker?

The last 1.5 miles were the hardest. When I finally turned on Roosevelt I was halfway up the hill and was about to start walking. But a spectator saw this and screamed, and I mean screamed, "Don't stop Frankie!!" so I didn't. I pumped my arms faster and the next thing I knew I turned left and saw a straightaway with the word "FINISH" at the end. My sister saw me cross the finish line (3:34:24) with a nice fist pump but I didn't see her as I was just staring straight ahead. I didn't even think she would be able to get that close.

I got my space blanket, then said "Bring it on" to the girl who placed the well-derserved medal around my neck. About 1 minute after exiting the chute I bumped into my family. Hugs were shared, cell phone calls were being made and congratulations was being offered by my mother, brother-in-law and 4-year-old niece.

I was on top of the world. We all were.

So thank you Chicago for being a great host on a weekend that I will never forget. Thank you to all the spectators who I just might call on for more support next October (still deciding). Thank you to my always supportive family for being there for me when I needed someone to hug right outside that chute.

I will try to post some pics on this blog of me during and after the race...once I figure out how.

That was a long post. Thanks for checking in. I am not even sure my words did justice to the incredible experience I had. But it was incredible and I might just be hooked to this running thing.

Leading up to the big moment...

2006-10-26T19:00:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY
Arrived to beautiful Chicago early this day for the start of what would turn into a most amazing weekend that flew past my very lofty expectations and has me rethinking my original plan to run one just one marathon.

The Congress Plaza had me in a room with a shower stall and no tub. I asked to switch rooms so I could take Epsom salt baths before bed and an ice bath after the marathon. Wise move.

Yumke, Jelly and I made our way to the Expo where I bought my new favorite shirt -- a black, long-sleeved, half-zipper New Balance shirt with the Chicago Marathon logo on the left arm -- and a Chicago Marathon glass.

Then relaxed in the hotel room before regrouping for dinner. En route to dinner I walked through the marathon starting area. It was quiet, the barricades were in place and I just paused for a moment to soak it all in. I imagine many a professional athlete does this before a big game, and I figured Sunday was my big game so I wanted to be in the right mental state.

Was in bed by 11pm and didn't get out of bed for another 10 hours, which brings us to...

SATURDAY
Had the the same breakfast I would eventually have on marathon day before meeting Jelly and Yumke at Buckingham fountain for a nice and easy 2-mile run at a slow pace.

After taking Thursday and Friday off it was nice get the legs moving again. I also realized that the minor tender feeling on the side of my knee was nothing. I had read that during one's taper some injuries may seem worse than they are or even the smallest thing may seem bigger...think that was the case here.

Next up was lunch with the first two members of my family who arrived. My dad and oldest brother. After yet another pasta meal, this one at Harry Carey's, my dad gave me a gold cross that he had bought for me during his recent trip to Italy. He said he wanted me to have it during the marathon so that they would be with me the whole way. I was touched and really liked the idea of running with a cross. And since I don't wear a chain I simply pinned the cross to the inside front pocket of my raceday shorts, something I plan to do from now on.

Back to the hotel to rest some more and to prepare everything I needed for raceday. I probably spent 20 minutes pinning my shirt because I wanted it just right. Even, not too high and not too low.

Before I knew it, it was time to reconvene with the group for dinner at Rosebud's in the theater district for more pasta. I noticed that I was feeling more relaxed now than I was at lunch, where I may have been a bit grumpy due to pre raceday nerves.

Back in my room I began a mental preparation routine that I had planned long ago. I re-read the chapter in a running book that talks about marathon visualization and all those other good things. I also put on motivational music, closed my eyes and recalled the past year's dedication to running. The first 5-miler, the first day of the running clinic, the hill training, the speed work, the first 20-miler. All of it. This filled me with confidence and reassured me that I would do awesome on Sunday because I had prepared.

SUNDAY
Woke up at 5:30, moments later I heard the wake-up call in the room beside me. Marathoners across the city were waking up! Had my banana, my oatmeal bar (couldn't make oatmeal in the room), a Cliff bar, some water and out the door I was.

With the training montage from Rocky IV blasting through my headphones I walked through the crowded lobby and onto the street where the air was crisp and the runners were plenty. I was soaking it all in. I had a short walk to the Trophy Tent and got more and more excited with each step I took.

Managed to locate a friend from my running group and we went off together for a short warm up run and then returned to the tent for a light stretch. Was nice to see a familiar face on such an important day. Jelly also arrived around now as well.
Before I knew it, the announcer was calling all runners registered in the preferred start area to make their way to their respective corrals. So off I went to Preferred Start Area II.

I grabbed my buddies' shoulders and wished him luck. He did the same and then we just waited for what would be the start of something really special (which will be the subject of my next post). Stay tuned...

3:34:24

2006-10-23T22:12:00.000-04:00

That's how long it took me to complete the 26.2 mile course in beautiful Chicago.

I just got back from the airport si this is just a super fast update for all of you who may have been following along through the training.

To sum it all up in one word - AMAZING!

The spectators were fabulous and I think I owe them plenty of thanks for being there the whole way.

But the most important spectators for me were my father, brother and sister who flew to Chicago to watch the race. They saw me four different times along the course plus my sister saw me cross the finish line. And I saw them three times.

Also, I was glad to be able to share such a major accomplishment with Jelly and Yumke. What a ride it was! Way to go guys. WE DID IT!!!!

A more detailed report will arrive either later this week.

Raring to go

2006-10-19T19:45:00.000-04:00

All packed and ready to depart for Chicago Friday morning at 7 a.m. for the big weekend. Have been good all week about getting 8 hours of sleep a night, have eaten well and consumed plenty of water. Now it's just a matter of doing that for a couple more days and then it will be time run.

As for the run, my time goals have gone something like this. When I made the decision last November to run a marathon, I said cracking the 4:00 mark would be great. Since I was not a runner until that day, this time goal was based on nothing more than it sounded good.

But then as I started running I realized 3:45 was doable. Then even further into training it appears 3:30 is within my reach. So I've decided to wear a 3:30 pace band and expect (hope) to finish somewhere in beween 3:30 and 3:40.

I do plan to savor every moment of the race, and especially the last .2 mile as the finish line comes within sight and the crowd is cheering.

Best of luck to you all. Have a great weekend in Chicago.

Back to Blog Land

2006-10-14T18:37:00.000-04:00

Hello strangers. I have been ready many running blogs but just haven't been updating mine. So, it's time to offer an update of my own.

Woke up at 7am this morning with all intentions of meeting a few fellow Chicago-bound runners for our 16K race pace run. It was too cold and really windy so I stayed in bed. Figured mored sleep would do me good, and if I waited a few more hours it would warm up. Yes, it's an excuse, but a darn good one I think.

Anyway, I did the run at 3:40 marathon pace and finished 1 minute slower of what the pace band wanted me to do. But it was crazy windy and it was my first run in a week so I think that had something to do with it. I don't think I have ever run in such wind. And for the first few K my hands were really cold.

And as for this being my first run in a week...yes, I took tapering to a new level. It's weird. Five months ago I wouldn't think of missing even a 3-mile run, but now for the past week I just opted for rest since the running conditions here were horrible. I actually went out to do speedwork on Wednesday but it was cold, rainy and windy. Didn't think staying out in that weather for an hour would do me any good. So I only ran for about 20 minuters that night.

Oh well, no big deal. Feeling well rested and very excited about next weekend.

My father, oldest brother and sister are going to be in Chicago to cheer me on. And it turns out my brother's friend from high school and university, who now lives in Chicago, will be in the preferred start II area (as am I) on marathon day. What a coincidence. My brother had lost touch with his friend in the past two years but they got in touch and turns out he is running Chicago too.

Now time for dinner.

Taper time!

2006-10-01T20:24:00.000-04:00

Was up at 6:00 a.m. Sunday morning, had a bowl of oatmeal, a banana a Cliff bar and was all set to begin my run at 7:00 a.m. by myself. I could have run with the group at 8:30, but I wanted to be at my friend's place for 1:00 p.m. to watch football so figured I better get an early start.

As I was waiting for Garmin to get a signal I waited inside my lobby as it was too cold to just stand outside. Took off for the run a few minutes after 7 and enjoyed the quiet streets and within a few minutes it didn't seem cold at all.

I guess some runners still don't understand the fact that the body warms up when running because I saw several people running with jackets and jackets tied around their waist. Definitely no need for a jacket today...it was actually a wonderful morning for a run

As I was running east past the Boulevard Club, the final stretch of my run, I saw three guys from my clinic who I would have been running with had I left at the normal time. They were going west. It felt great knowing I was almost done and they still had a ways to go. We didn't chat. I just said "I started at seven" they told me to join them (fat chance), and we exchanged a high-five and I was on my way.

Finished the run in 3:11:56. I noticed that I got a nice surge near the end when I passed a motorcycle whose radio was playing Springsteen's Dancing in the Dark. Music can do wonderful things. I imagine Chicago spectators will have a siilar effect.

Anyway, came home to yet another ice bath. Jelly, if you're reading, the first 5 seconds are tough but then it's good stuff. Just go right in, no hesitation. Best way. I feel good and I am glad to say it's taper time!! Woooooo hoooooo.

Oh yeah, tried out my RaceReady shorts and they get a passing grade. SOlves the whole gel storage for race day. Now just have to decide whether to bring the hydration pack or not.

Anyway, happy running all.

A solo mission

2006-09-24T18:35:00.000-04:00

Up at 5:45 a.m. for some breakfast and then slipped on the running gear in time to watch the early stages of the marathon two blocks from my place.

Seeing the elite runners sprint by was quite a sight. Then after offering some support to a few friends doing the half and full marathon I set off for my own run, alone, around 7:20.

Since I had no running group today (most were in the race, some were away, and others have a different pace than me) I contemplated slipping onto the race course and using the other runners for support. But I opted against it. Besides, I think I am now a strong enough runner, both mentally and physically, that I can handle an 18-mile run on my own. And I did. Was a great run too.

But today is not about me, it's about Jelly and Yumke. Both had great races. Check out their race reports and give them the kudos they deserve. Well done guys.

The flight is booked

2006-09-22T12:11:00.000-04:00

Just booked my flight to an from Chicago.

Leaving Toronto Friday, Oct. 20 at 7:00 a.m. and leaving Chicago Monday, Oct. 23 at 6:00 p.m.

I like the early evening return flight as it gives me time to sleep in on Monday, go for a nice brunch before leisurely making my way back to the airport with my medal proudly on display.

One month to go...wow!! This is exciting stuff!

I plan to be really hardcore the next month. That means monitoring my food intake even more than I have already done, ensuring I get plenty of sleep and finding a fine balance between geting all the runs in while listening to my body if it wants some rest.

All set for this Sunday's marathon...

2006-09-21T11:20:00.000-04:00

...as a spectator that is.

The Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon is this Sunday, and since several members of my marathon clinic are participating, as well as a few friends doing the half, I am going get this week's long run completed on Saturday so I am free Sunday morning to watch.

I live two blocks from about the 2K mark of the course and I want to offer support to other runners since I know how awesome it feels to hear people cheer you on. I'm also looking forward to seeing the elite runners sprint past at an incredible pace.

So Yumke and Jelly, look for me on the north side of the intersection of Front and Sherbounrne if you're in search of some motivation. I know it's early in the race and you will likely be doing fine at this point, but I'll be getting up early on a day when I can sleep in...so make it worth my while!

Oh yeah, and I decided not to run Wednesday as I was a bit strapped for time. I could have rushed a run in but didn't feel like rushing. Instead, I drove my sister, who stayed at my place since Saturday as she was in town for work, to the bus station before meeting friend at the Blue Jays/Yankee game. Even had two beers at the game.

Tonight's run could possibly get wiped out as well as I have some mandatory loads of laundry to do before moving along to other plans I have made. But I am thinking that guilt will get me out the door for a run.

I can't believe the one-month countdown to Chicago starts tomorrow! So exciting!

Nice early run

2006-09-16T12:28:00.000-04:00

Started the 20-mile run today at 7 a.m., which I believe is the earliest I have ever gone out for a run. Met two fellow runners and we enjoyed the quiet streets all to ourselves en route to the trail. At the 10-mile mark we went our seperate ways as the other two guys were doing 23 miles. It's been a while since I've done 10 miles on my own, and I'm happy to say it went well. Sometimes it's nice not to have to listen to others and just do my own thing.

I felt good the whole run. When I got to the 20-mile mark I was still sort of far from my place. So instead of running it in and adding needless miles I enjoyed the 20-minute walk home and stretched in a nearby park. Took a nice ice bath when I got home as well.

Total run time was 2:58:45. Also, the running store was out of the new vanilla flavored Power Bar gels so I had to go back to Cliff Shots. I used to like Cliff Shots, but compared to the new Power Bar gels, they are way too thick. I better stock up on vanilla Power Bar Gels because they seem to be the popular choice.

Happy Running.

It's all a mind game now

2006-09-15T19:58:00.000-04:00

At speed training the other night I was paired with one of the clinic's speedier runners. After our first three intervals he said he wanted to pick it up a bit and said he wanted to break 6:30. But I wasn't feeling it that night so I said "I can't do that" even though I have been clocking around that time nearly every week.

He said "Frank, you have to get that 'I can't' stuff out of your head." He was right. He even said he noticed that I have been a bit negative the past week or so when it came to running. When we'd be out on runs discussing goal times and stuff I would always be saying things like "that's way too fast for me." I think a lot of this has to do with me getting tired. But I'm glad he brought this to my attention because I am doing my best now to think more positively.

I managed to keep up with him for each of the 5 x 1 mile intervals Wednesday night. I did 6:40, 6:37, 6:34, 6:30 and 6:38.

Next up, a Saturday 20-miler. Our group, whose goal race is September 24th, is doing their race pace run tomorrow so we are going to run tomorrow as well - just not at race pace and not as short a distance as they are doing. This means I will be off from sometime tomorrow around mid-morning until Tuesday evening. That's a much needed break.

Happy running.

Let's go already!

2006-09-06T20:46:00.000-04:00

Is it October 22 yet? Am I the only one who is anxious to get to the starting line, or should I say finish line, in Chicago? I think I am getting restless because a lot of the runners in my marathon clinic are getting set to taper for their Sept. 24 marathon whereas we still have 45 days to go. Argh, I'm jealous!

Anyway, tonight was all about speed training. The schedule called for 4 x 1 mile, which were completed in 6:26, 6:16, 6:28 and 6:37...the last one was a struggle for the last half a mile.

I ran with three other guys and we each took a turn leading for one mile. I led the group for the 6:16 mile, which clearly shows I didn't pace us right because we wanted to come in around 6:25. That mile took a lot out of me and it showed as the following two intervals each got slower.

Pasta is ready. Buon appetito.

Ice ice baby

2006-09-03T18:19:00.000-04:00

I've heard many fellow runners rave about the benefits of an ice bath and figured that today, with the longest run of the training program complete, would be a great time to give it a try.

So I got home from a 23.5 mile run (we set out to do 23 miles but the mapped out route wasn't exact) and filled the tub with cold water. Then I dropped two bags of ice into the water and slid inside.

I let out the type of scream you would expect when sliding into a tub of ice water, but after a few seconds it actually felt nice. Stayed in for 10 minutes, out for 5, and back in for 10. The water was just above my waist and I had a long-sleeved dry-fit shirt in the tub to keep my upper body warm. Also brought a Sudoku book in the tub with me to pass the time.

This type of bath helps the muscles recover faster from the run. I'm feeling pretty good right now and will take another bath later tonight...but that will be a warm Epsom salt bath...which sounds much more appealing.

But the run went well and the weather was nice to us. After the day-long rainfall we got Saturday I was a bit concerned for today. But the rain stopped, overcast skies remained and there was a light wind. I think it was 15 Celsius outside...which I believe is only 3 Celsius off the average high on race day in Chicago.

Hope your long runs went well.

Quick run before lots of fun

2006-08-31T21:58:00.000-04:00

Today's run was a short one, which was good because I was not in the mood for a run today anyway. Just did 3.5 miles and never got into a comfortable groove at all. Perhaps speed training from Wednesday night was still taking its toll on my body. We did 3 x 1 mile and my splits were 6:30, 6:39 and 6:48.

After the run I followed the footsteps of Jelly and Yumke and made my way to the CNE, which was only $5 after 5pm today...what a deal! Enjoyed fish and chip's from Yumke's family's place, also split some Indian cuisine with the girlfriend and then had a chicken souvlaki followed by an ice cream waffle sandwhich.

I later played the "guess my weight" game and won! The lady, who called me a "lean mean machine" guessed that I was 171 pounds. I thought she was right until I stepped on the scale and it read 176. But this was fully dressed with running shoes on and after pigging out. Anyway, I won the girlfriend a stuffed lion.

I am taking tomorrow off and might get in some good stretching. And it's the start of my 4-day weekend!!

Happy Running!

You know you've made progress when...

2006-08-27T17:12:00.000-04:00

...you consider a 15 mile run as a very comfortable distance. My running group, after jumping up in mileage for weeks, was rewarded today as we got to drop down in mileage this week before tackling 20 miles again next Sunday.

But I just need to remind myself that just because we may drop down in mileage some weeks does not give me a free pass from properly hydrating or carbo-loading the day before. While I did drink water and eat carbs on Saturday, I'm not sure I got in as much as I should have. Guess I need to respect the distance more than I did.

The run went well. We went at a comfortable pace along a wonderful route where I discovered two more city trails I have never seen before. It's crazy how many trails are in this city that make you forget that you are even in the city!

Total distance was 15.35 miles in 2:15:30 including all water stops. And there were three hills on the run...the last one was crazy steep!

Here's a link of the map if you want to check it out. Most of the route was on trails. We altered it a bit near the end as we had already met our distance goal and just wanted to get back to our headquarters.

Happy Running.

The day after my first 30K race...

2006-08-20T18:17:00.000-04:00

The funny thing is that other than the start/finish area it really didn't feel like a race at all, just another Sunday long run at a faster pace and at night. Can I have my money back? :-)

In the srtarting corral my marathon clinic leader asked me what time I was aiming for and I said 2:35. He said he was doing 2:30 and told me I could too. So he and another clinic member decided to run together.

I was really glad when the race finally started because waiting around all day for an 8pm start time has its drawbacks. Sure it's nice to be able to sleep in on a race day, but by midday I was restless and just wanted to get going especially since my previous run was Wednesday night.

The halfway point of the race was just inside the Spit and I felt great with plenty left in the tank (I've also since found out that fellow blogger Arcaner, who is also Chicago-bound, was two seconds ahead of me at this point). The first half of the race seemed to fly by, and I guess it did as my time for the first 15K was 1:11:39.

The Spit was long, boring, super dark and did I say boring? And no, I didn't see or hear any of these birds Jelly speaks of. But I did hear a lot of crickets.

After the last water station I told my friends to go ahead and that I would take a walk break, even though we decided that we would run it in from there. My clinic coach was super and told me to just stay with it. Not long after I said again that I would walk, but he managed to inspire me to keep going. This worked for about 2.5K. But when we crossed the bridge on Cherry St., even though it was a downhill slope, I said I had to walk and I did for 1 minute and let them go ahead even though we were minutes from finishing.

A crushing blow occurred when I turned onto the street where the start/finish was. I thought we just turned the corner and it was over...oh no, we had to go on the south side of the street and past the start/finish line before turning around and coming back on the north side. Mentally that hurt. And since I knew I had sub 2:30 in the bag I took another walk break. There were no spectators to convince me otherwise.

So I crossed the line in 2:28:42. My running buddies were in at 2:26:41 and 2:26:42.

I walked quite a bit after crossing the finish line before going through my stretching routine. Ate a bannana then took a bite out of a bagel but couldn't eat it so I spit it out. And after hanging around for more than 30 minutes I realized I was getting really cold and needed dry clothes...my clothes were soaked. This race didn't give out those nice blankets at the end of the race!

So I walked to my car, changed, drove home, showered, lied down for a bit, made some eggs, toast and drank water before going back to bed for a rather sleepless night. I know I haven't done many races, but I really think this one was poorly organized and I have no desire to participate in it again. It just didn't feel like a race. But in the end it was a race and I did get a good idea as to where I expect to finish in Chicago.

Speaking of Chicago, I am really looking forward to how awesome 1.5 million spectators will help get me through the race, especially the last stretch when we will all need it the most. Had I had support like that last night I bet I wouldn't have taken the last two unscheduled walk breaks.

But I'm proud and happy to say that FleetFootedFrankie crossed the line 47th overall out of 433 runners in the 30K event, 42nd out of 215 men and 23rd out of 88 amongst men in the 30-39 age group.

I feel good today, much better than last night around midnight when I felt sort of intoxicated. I was beaten up from 30K. But my reward today two chocolate dip donuts from Tim Hortons, Doritos and chocolate chip oatmeal cookies. Umm.

Wow, this post got long. Happy running!

A quick update

2006-08-20T12:35:00.000-04:00

I'll file a more detailed report later, but for those checking in I can offer the following information. Successfully completed my first 30K (18.6 mile) race with an unofficial time of 2:28:45. Official results have yet to be posted.

The last few kilometers were tough as my calves were really tight. There were hardly any spectators along the course and it really didn't even feel like a race at all. The Leslie Spit portion of the race was super dark and super boring.

More details to come.

I am the wanderer?

2006-08-18T15:25:00.000-04:00

Well, according to my race bib for Saturday night's A Midsummer Night's Run I am indeed that merry wanderer of the night.

If a runner did not request a name or saying for their race bib then the race organizers filled it in for us using words from Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. That's fine with me...even though I am pretty sure I aksed for my bib to say "Frank" or "Frankie". I was just glad they didn't put Titania or Hermia on my bib!

So get this - since I am not going to race with my hydration belt I had to go out and buy a new pair of shorts that have a little pocket in the back for my 3 gels. All my other shorts only have that little inner pocket for keys or money. That means I will race tomorrow night with a brand new pairs of shorts.

I know you shouldn't run a race with brand news shoes...but is it the same for shorts? They are pretty similar than my other shorts in that they have a liner, but these ones have a pocket for gels in the back. Should I be concerned??

Ideally I would have bought these shorts earlier and taken them for a run or two, but I only realized the other day that I needed somewhere to store my gels...and I had scheduled pre-race rest days on Thursday and Friday.

I considered getting a gel flask but figure that would be more odd than a new pairs of shorts...and besides, I do not want a flask bouncing up and down from my shorts all race long.

Now back to resting and carbo-loading.

Itching to go

2006-08-16T07:40:00.000-04:00

With the Chicago marathon still more than two months away I've noticed recently that I have been wishing that it was sooner. At first I thought it was because I wanted to get this whole marathon business over with, but that's not it. I realized I am just itching to race again, get the competitive juices flowing and refamiliarize myself with the whole race experience.

So this Saturday night, yes I said night, I'll be participating in my first ever 30K (18.6 mile) race. It's called A Midsummer Night's Run and starts at 8 p.m. "The run will start before the sun sets and will be finished by the light of the moon" as the website says.

It will be a nice change to line up in a starting corral filled with anxious runners all awaiting the starting siren, having an official time clock, water stands, a finish line with cheering spectators and getting a finisher's medal - all which I think will give me a nice boost to help me through the next two months of training.

I'm more of a night person than a morning person (even though I am at work for 7 a.m. five days a week) so I am actually quite happy about the start time. It's also nice to know the sun won't be a factor as it can be during those long weekend runs.

But this does change my race day breakfast. I am thinking of having pasta for breakfast - and no, that is something this Italian guy has not done before. Pizza yes, pasta no. Anyway, that will likely change this Saturday.

This will be my first race since running my first half marathon in Mississauga on May 14. After tonight's hill training I get Thursday and Friday off ahead of race day, which is good because Sunday's 21.5-miler took a lot out of me. Made for a bit tougher of a tempo run last night.

Since a good number of my running group members are also participating in this race we are obviously not meeting Sunday morning for a lnog run. Which means, I can sleep in on a Sunday...and something tells me I will. Now that's what I'm talking about.

Happy running.

Frankie is a member in good standing

2006-08-14T18:04:00.000-04:00

I made it! On Sunday I became in good standing of the 20-mile club!

Actually, due to a few wrong turns the pack of runners I was with ended up doing 21.5 miles along a route that included two cemeteries, several trails I have never been on, a very posh neighbourhood and an incredibly long and steep hill. But I finished and feel really good about the whole run.

Before heading out for the run our running group leader handed out an easy-to-follow map. But for some reason the guy leading the pack of runners I was with interpreted "along the cemetery" for "through the cemetery."

So we ran through a small cemetery and on a very narrow path that forced some of us to run (yes, this is bad) on top of rows of flat tombstones that were cluttered alongside this path. We knew we were off course so decided to slip through a hole in a fence with hopes of getting back on track but ended up at a swampy piece of water that was so green it looked like a golfing green. And when the lead runner abruptly stopped at the end of the path the remaining 5 of us weren't prepared to brake so we all kind've bumped into each other but thankfully nobody got knocked into the water.

We eventually got back on route and passed the rest of the running group that had managed to build a decent lead during our detour. They laughed at us and we just said that we had decided to stop for coffee.

The pack of six runners I was with all took turns leading the way and were pretty much running in one cluster, but somewhere around mile 18 the group seperated. Three guys seemed to pick up their pace, I slipped a bit and the two behind me fell even further back. I ended up coming in 7 minutes behind the front runners for a total time, all stops included, of 3:09.

The last water stop was an unfortunate one. I accidentally bought grape-flavoured water and was taken by surprise with my first gulp. Nothing like washing down your fourth vanilla gel with grape-flavored water. Thakfully I didn't have far to go.

And get this, one guy running with us (one of the two runners who fell back behind me around mile 18) ran without water!! He's done plenty of marathons, including Boston, but forgot his Gatorade in the fridge. So he relied on public water fountains the entire run and declined several offers to have some of our water. Crazy!!

Anyway, check out the route if you like:
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=359550

Head to the hills...it works!

2006-08-09T22:35:00.000-04:00

Why do hill training if Chicago is a flat course? Fair question. I once wondered the same thing and have also been asked the same thing. Our running group leader told us hill training helped to build speed, strength and endurance. He promised us that we would notice a difference if we stuck to the training.

He didn't lie.

Our first hill training session was six weeks ago and we did five repititions up a 600 meter hill that gets steeper the higher you get. We've added one repitition each week which meant nine were on tap for tonight.

I finished 9 reps of this hill tonight and am certain I could have done more if the schedule called for it. For fun, two fellow runners and I gave it all we had on the last lap...and it was by far my fastest time of the night. This was on my 9th lap!! Six weeks ago after my 5th lap I felt like I was going to fall over. I am a stronger runner today than I was six weeks ago, no doubt in my mind.

The feeling of progress is a wonderful thing.

One an unrelated note...have you found marathon training has really increased the loads of laundry you do each week? It's crazy!

If the shoe fits...

2006-08-08T20:53:00.000-04:00

...buy it.

Since we are spending nearly every day of the week training for the big day in October, I figured it would also be a good idea to decide what shoes I will wear for the race and get them purchased soon. I just don't want to be surprised a month before and find out the shoe I want has been discontinued, or the store can't get it to me in time for Chicago. But many of you have probably already prepared for this. Or not.

I recently returned a pair of Asics Kayanos XII after about 35 miles of use becuse I quickly got two callusses, which was something new for me, and wasn't sure they were the right size for me either. A wee bit too big perhaps? And since I didn't have one complaint about the pair I was currently running in - New Balance 766 - I wasn't all that enthused with switching to a new brand.

Problem is the model I was wearing is now being replaced with the 767 version and the 766 version is going to disappear. So the running store I frequent tracked down a pair and I wore them for the first time tonight - a 3.7 mile (6K) tempo run. But with the mileage continuously increasing I know this new pair won't be fresh and ready for a marathon on Oct. 22.

So when I finished the run tonight I went right into the store and asked them if they could track me down another pair. They did and I should get them in about a week. I will put them in my closet and pull them out a few weeks, maybe a month, before race day and get them worked in.

I guess what I am saying is get your marathon shoe selection sorted out before it's too late. I can't imagine it would be any fun running a marathon in a brand of shoe you have not tested out before.

As for tonight's run...AWESOME! Finished much more comfortably than last week when the temperatures were ridiculous. It was cool and breezy. My mood was better and I just felt great.

Dinner time.

A good run with a great friend

2006-08-05T19:33:00.000-04:00

Headed to Niagara Falls, my hometown, Friday night for my sister-in-law's 30th birthday party and enjoyed a wonderful BBQ dinner at my mom and dad's place. That meant I had to take the marathon training on the road for one day. One of my best friends, who still lives in the so-called honeymoon capital of the world, is also into running so we decided to go out together.

We were going to run along the Niagara Parkway to enjoy the scenery that locals rarely enjoy but figured the many tourists would just crowd the trail...and after stomping all over snails Thursday night who knew what I would've done if toursits got in my way today :-)

So we opted to run at the cemetery where my friend has often run, and where once long ago I went with him for a run...but that was long before I decided to take up running. We did three laps today, or 4.25 miles, in about 35 minutes. I do recall the first time I ever went running with this same friend at this very same location years ago and don't even think I comfortably finished one lap without taking walking breaks...how things have changed.

Now I'll tend to the boiling pasta on my stovetop which will help power me through my 18-mile run tomorrow morning!!

Happy weekend!

Crunchy snails, fast rabbit and scary raccoon

2006-08-04T12:35:00.000-04:00

A much-needed rainfall on Thursday helped lower the temperature and made for ideal running conditions. It also meant a much more crowded running trail. Funny thing is I only saw 1 other runner along my 6-mail route...it was the countless snails that found their way from the fields and onto the path.

I did my best to dodge them but admit there were a few that fell victim to my size 12 New Balance running shoes. Later on the same trail I got pretty close to a rabbit which raced back into the field as I got too close. When I turned around at the 3-mile mark and made my way back I saw what I believe was the same rabbit which again took off as it saw me approach.

Then in the distance I saw another animal. At first I figured another rabbit, then I thought maybe a cat, but as I got closer there was no mistaking this animal on my running path for a raccoon. Admittedly I was a little worried to run right past the raccoon in case it decided to jump on meor something.

I decided to slow down on my approach and hoped it would just run off, but it didn't. So as I got really close I decided to pick up the pace and sprint away. As I looked back the raccoon didn't even seem to care...but then I heard a bunch of cracking noises. Yes, I had returned to the portion of the trail where the snails were and in my mad dash from the raccoon had trampled all over countless snails. I felt bad, I really did.

Despite the carnage, the run was one of the more comfortable ones I've had lately given the cooler temperatures. Happy weekend all.

Long overdue update...

2006-08-04T09:37:00.000-04:00

Returned my Asics Kayanos XII, which had about 35 miles on them, to the Running Room with no questions asked. While they were comfortable, I noticed two calluses on the second and third toes of my left foot after long runs in them...didn't like that. Question is, are the blisters a result increased mileage, extreme heat, the shoes or a mix of all three? Either way, I returned them and got them to order another pair of the NB 766s that I already wear and enjoy.

Ran on a treadmill last Friday for the first time in ages since it was crazy raining as I was set to leave. Was boring, really hot inside and made for a horrible run. On Saturday I felt a minor pain on lower side of right knee (sorta like what I felt on left side during the last bit of a long run with Yumke ahead of the half marathon in May). Anyway, I thought maybe it was from treadmill but my running group leader suggested last night it might be IT band...he said be sure to stretch if often, especially pre-run and showed me some exercises to strengthen area muscles as well. The left side hasn't bothered me since that day in May, thankfully, so hopefully the right side will remain fine as well.

Woke up Sunday morning and the pain was still there. Put on running shoes, ran around the apartment and pain was still there. Minor pain, but figured an 18 mile run would not help matters. Forgetting that Advil would help it, I went back to bed and took the day off. At the time I was very upset with this decision, especially since Advil later in the morning made pain go away and it hasn't been back since...but I have accepted that giving my legs the rest was probably better than making matters worse for a long run. We're doing 18 miles again this Sunday so I'll have another shot at the distance again.

Basically running kicked my butt last week...but I'm still loving it and bounced back this week pain free and with plenty of energy. Now you're up to date.

Freeway Frankie

2006-07-23T20:58:00.000-04:00

That was one of the three nicknames I was given by the pack of runners I did 16 miles with this glorious morning. I was going at a good pace, probably a bit too quick for a long run, and one guy called me Freeway Frankie. The other two nicknames were Change Guy and Bojangles - because for the first part of the run my change was making noise inside the pocket of my fuel belt. I transfered the change into the handy inner-short pocket and everyone was happy.

The sky was blue, there was a bit of a breeze and the humidity of recent weeks was nowhere to be felt. We went all the way up the Don River Trail, along paths and in parks that I have never seen before. It was a great run.

Before we took off, our running group leader wanted to know who was running with who just so he had a sense of who was where. Anyway, he rambled off a few names, mine included, and said "the fast guys, or at least you think you're fast." He was joking of course, but we took it as a sort of challenge. We finished the run in 2:13:20. Went for a nice cooldown walk right after and then stretched.

One guy running with us happened to be my pace bunny for the half marathon I did a few months back. Was cool to hear his running stories and pepper him with questions.

Also tried a new gel today. I have used Gu and Power Gel...today I went with Cliff Shot. If you haven't tried it, do so for your next long run! It worked better than the previous brands did...well, for me it did. I think part of my energy for today's run should also be credited to eating well the day before, a great night's sleep and a good breakfast.

Speaking of sleep, good night all.

A wet finish to Week 5

2006-07-22T13:20:00.000-04:00

Went bowling Friday night with my girlfriend and my friend and his girlfriend. Had a great, and profitable time. My friend and I played Poker Bowling - which basically means you get one card for each spare, two cards for each strike, and whoever makes the best 5-card poker hand at the end of the game wins. We played three games, I won all three. Had the night's high score of 180. A fun night.

I didn't get to bed until 2 a.m. and decided not to get up early for my run, but rather get a nice 8 hour snooze and head out just before midday. I knew I risked venturing out on one of those hot and humid runs but I really wanted some good sleep. Anyway, thankfully the clouds were covering Toronto and there was a steady drizzle as I took off for my run.

By the time I got to the SkyDome Yankee fans were streaming in to see if their beloved team can steal from from the hometown Blue Jays and the rain was coming down harder. So I just picked it up a bit and got home that much faster. Even saw T&C from my running group doing their morning run - FYI Jelly, they will not be there tomorrow).

Week 5 - 39.65 miles. Next up, a 16-miler tomorrow morning with the running group.

And as for my running issue in August...turns out I am a loser. We are actually going away the following weekend, which is my scheduled 14.5 mile run. I can handle that on my own. Basically she forwarded an e-mail to me that just happened to mention the date of the August weekend in it. So I didn't even have to bring it up.

But this does mean I will be out of town and unable to participate in the unique 30K Midsummer Night's Run. Oh well, it worked out the way I wanted it to I guess.

Happy running.

A rocky road worth traveling?

2006-07-19T12:16:00.000-04:00

I'll be the first to admit that when the marathon training program started, and even during the months leading up to it, I moved running high up the priority ladder in my life.

Some might call it obsessive, but I call it committed. Committed to getting myself in the best possible condition so I can accomplish an incredible feat come Oct. 22.

About a month ago my girlfriend asked me if I'd be up for a weekend getaway at a cottage her friend and friend's husband recently purcahsed.

The girlfriend even allowed me to suggest a weekend that best fits my training. So I did, opting for an August weekend where the schedule had us dropping back the mileage of the Sunday long run. I figured I could handle running up to 15 miles solo in the country, but anything more and I would need the support of the group.

Turns out the schedule has been adjusted and out first 20-mile run is listed the very weekend I said I'd go away.

My girlfriend has been very supportive of my training but has also expressed her displeasure for the way it gets in the way of her and I spending as much time together as she would like.

I've kind of made my decision but am curious to hear what others would do. I also don't want to put this off much longer as I feel guilty when we talk and I feel like I am holding this back. I need to let it out.

Do I say I can't go because I have to run 20 miles? Who wouldn't understand that right? Or do I go and put myself through the torture of running 20 miles solo in the country...where would I get water refills?

I may be making more of this than I need to. Maybe she'll totally understand...or not.

Hot fun in the city

2006-07-16T21:37:00.000-04:00

I was a bit nervous heading into today's long run for a few reasons. Instead of having my usual pasta dinner the night before and going to bed early, I pigged out at a BBQ party and went to bed just after midnight.

We devoured a chese tray, olives and bruschetta for starters and then moved on to a main course of steak, chicken kabobs, salad with peaches and prosciutto, potato salad and some wine...about a glass and a half for me. Plus dessert. Yes, I had dessert! And it was quite possibly the best homemade cheesecake I have ever had.

Anyway, up at 7a.m. for a bowl of oatmeal, half a bagel, some water and out the door to meet the Running Room group as I sipped on some Gatorade.

When all was said and done, we completed a long and hot 14.88 mile run. We went a bit further than we were supposed to, as did many other memebers of the group, as we didn't know when to exit the lovely tree-covered and incredibly cool path we spent the majority of our run on.The last stretch of the run was in the center of the city and it was sunny and humid.

Had some discomfort near the end of my run as I thought I might have been getting the beginning of a blister on the inside of my second toe...that wasn't the case and all is fine thankfully.

Then went for breakfast with a few of the nice people in my running group followed by an afternoon of video game playing at my friend's place. I'm not really into the video games but he got an Xbox recently and asked me to check it out. I did and it was fun. Tiger Woods Golf and John Madden Football. Great way to speand a hot afternoon.

Tomorrow's an off day and I'm quite happy about that. Happy running!

The pool awaits

2006-07-15T11:03:00.000-04:00

Got an early start to my Saturday morning so I could get a nice 3.5 mile run in before the weather got crazy hot. Also wanted to put Week 4 in the books and continue on enjoying my day ahead of tomorrow's long run.

Later today I'm going to try and make my way to the pool and give my legs a nice treat after putting them through that hill training madness the other night. And besides, with afternoon temperatures expected to be 31C, and feeling more like 38C, it only makes sense to be by a pool.

Weekly mileage: 39.62 - unchartered territory for me

A hill of a good time

2006-07-12T21:22:00.000-04:00

Tonight was the first hill run, and while it was extremely demanding it was also a great workout and felt really rewarding once finished. Our running group instructor told us that once we got to the top of the hill we should feel like we are going to die, but that once we made our way to the bottom we should feel ready to go back up again.

Well when I got to the top of my fifth and final ascent, I was gasping for air like I have never done before. But by the time I got to the bottom of the hill I felt like I could do another...but glad I didn't have to today. Guess I did it right.

It was also encouraging when the instructor shouted out a "nice posture Frank, that's what we're looking for" as we crossed on the hill. Made me feel good and gave me some added motivation.

We'll be adding another ascent each week for the next 6 for a total of 11 hill climbs at our last hill run...that seems insane right now and it probably will still sound insane in 6 weeks, but by doing one each week I assume it won't seem like such a daunting task.

How does everyone else find hill training? Do you have a strange addiction to it?

It's been awhile, let's catch up

2006-07-12T10:11:00.000-04:00

We have so much catching up to do! It's been a week since I last updated my blog, and for that I apologize, but I'm proud to say that my blogging laziness has not carried over into the running department.

I have stayed true to my training program and started Week 4 of the training program on Sunday with a wonderful 23.5K (14.6 mile) run. It was supposed to be a 23K run but the portion of the group I was running with opted to take a winding path through the beach as opposed to the more direct streetside trail.

On Saturday I went for a shorter run and took my first steps in the new pair of shoes I bought. I wanted to have a second pair of running shoes so I could alternate each day - which is supposed to be better than using the same pair day after day as shoes need time to recover too or else they can break down faster.

I had been running in a pair of New Balance 766 and was anticipating going with the newly released update to that show...the 767. But I wasn't crazy about how it felt and after trying on several other shoes I decided on the Asics Kayano XII. They were a bit more pricey but they are really comfortable. Also took advantage of a 20% off coupon.

Tonight marks the start of hill training. I'm really curious to see how I perform. Sure, some of my running routes have included hills, but I've never done an official hill workout where the emphasis is on going up and down the hill. Last night's pre-run talk was all about hill running and I am eager to give it my best. Just hope the rain let's up for tonight.

I also look forward to the many benefits our running group leader has promised us that hill training will offer: increased endurance, strength and speed. Wish me luck!

Beat the Heat

2006-07-05T12:45:00.000-04:00

That was the topic during our discussion ahead of Tuesday night's 4.25 mile (6.8K) tempo run. It was very fitting given the extreme temperatures during last Sunday's run. We learned how to prepare for hot-weather running: stay away from cotton, drink plenty before you head out and bring plenty along for the run, wear shades and/or a breathable hat to name a few. Also told us how to recognize symptoms of heat exhaustion, which include nausea and dizziness.

While I was aware of many of these things from reading various running books, it never hurts to be reminded of what to do and what not to do. These weekly sessions are getting better each week, they also really make us feel part of a group and in this training business together...which we are.

Tonight's tempo run marks our last one in a 12&6 pattern as next week we start hill training. I may regret saying this...but I'm looking forward to hill training.

Note to self...bring a hat next week

2006-07-03T17:16:00.000-04:00

As I walked to meet my running group for 8:30 Sunday morning I could already feel the sun was not going to be runner-friendly. The scheduled run called for a 19K (11.9 mile) run but it turned out to be nearly 13 miles. The last 40 minutes of the run were HOT...and I mean hot. I wanted to pour water down my back but didn't want to waste it all since I had more running to do. So I took little sips and tried my best not to think about it. Besides, it was only the last 35 minutes or so that I was running low on water and had to conserve what I had left. I bring sunglasses on every run but next week I think I'll bring a hat as well.

Also, I found it interesting how I treated the day before my long run compared to how I treated the day before my half marathon a few months back. Didn't eat pasta, didn't carbo load, didn't even drink an excessive amount of water...even though Sunday's run was just shy of half-marathon distance. Yet the day before my half I was doing eveything by the book. Yes, I know we run these long runs at a slow pace and not a race pace...but it's still far and it was hot.

Finished the 12.82 mile run in 1:47:25, got in some good stretching and didn't even flinch when I stepped into the cold shower when I got home. Later in the day I couldn't help but feel for the other runners I saw battling the heat.

Resting today ahead on tempo runs on Tuesday and Wednesday. Stay cool!

My neglected blog

2006-07-01T23:00:00.000-04:00

I have been neglecting this blog for the past few days...but that doesn't mean I haven't been running. Had a friend visiting from out of town Friday so after watching the Italy/Ukraine soccer game we went for a 6-mile run along the waterfront. The run was good but we really should've brought some water as it was scorching hot. My mouth was so dry! The post-run Gatorade was like liquid gold.

Saturday I did a nice and easy 3.5 mile run through the Distillery district and onto the Lakeshore path.

SUnday marks the start of week 3 of official marathon training. On schedule is a 19K (11.8 mile) group run at 8:30a.m. (The running group works in kilometres...in case you were wondering why they would schedule an 11.8 mile run and not just do 12 miles).

Happy Canada Day and happy long runs for those of you with one schedule tomorrow.

A great midweek tempo run

2006-06-28T20:50:00.000-04:00

The second of two tempo runs with the Running Room group are done for the week. Tonight's was the 6 minute/12 minute interval tempo run. Finshed the run more comfortably than last week yet came in with a faster time this week. I think I just went out too fast last week and paid for it a bit near the end, whereas tonight I went lighter during the 6 minute portions and that allowed me to give it more gas for the 12 minute portions. Think the fact that it was my second time on the route helped a bit as well.

Have to be at a wedding tomorrow night so am going to squeeze in a 5 mile steady run tomorrow morning. I'll keep my eyes open for Yumke. My regular work schedule (7am start time) isn't morning-run friendly, especially for this sleepy head. So very happy that I don't have to be at work until 9:30 tomorrow so it all works out nicely.

A lesson and a run...rolled into one

2006-06-27T22:01:00.000-04:00

Tonight's pre-run discussion with my marathon group focused on why the training schedule is constructed the way it is, when to make up for a missed run and when not to. Post-run, our group leader led us through a session on stretching which was great. It's one thing to read about how to do a stretch in a book, or watch someone else do a pose and try to mimic it...but it's much better having someone go through each one with you and telling you what to do and where you should feel it.

As for the run, it was a 6K (3.7 mile) tempo run along the waterfront. There was quite the scene on Lake Ontario as a very thick-looking military type plane came in for a landing at the airport while boats outlined an open patch of water that was surrounded by flares shooting smoke into the sky. Unsure what happened.

Okay, I'll play along...

2006-06-26T22:07:00.000-04:00

The rules of Tag are quite simple - run...run or else you're 'it'. So, I guess it's quite fitting that today, on a scheduled rest day after six straight runs, I am 'it'. So, since Jelly "tagged" me I guess I'll play along.

A) Four Jobs I've Had in My Life:
1. Snack Bar Attendant at a Bingo Hall.
2. Busboy at a Niagara Falls hotel's restaurant.
3. Construction.
4. Reporter.

B) Four Movies I watch over and over:
1. The Shawshank Redemption
2. The Godfather
3. Goodfellas
4. Heat

C) Four Places I have lived:
1. Parents house in Niagara Falls...the Canadian side.
2. College Park
3. Basement apartment on Oriole Dr...loved that place
4. Condo in downtown T.O.

D) 4 TV Shows I love to watch:
1. 24
2. The Sopranos
3. Law & Order SVU
4. Entourage

E) 4 Places I have been on vacation:
1. Italy
2. Southeast Asia
3. Las Vegas
4. California

F) 4 Websites I visit daily:
1. Backstreets -Love the Boss
2. Google.ca -It's got all the answers
3. Jelly
4. Yumke

G) 4 of my favorite foods:
1. Pasta
2. Barbecued steak
3. Prosciutto
4. Peanut M&Ms...do those count as "food"?

H) 4 places I'd rather be right now:
1. Germany watching the World Cup
2. Vacationing in Italy
3. Home in bed on a rainy day
4. Hugh Hefner's Grotto

I) 4 Favorite Bands/Singers:
1. Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band
2. U2
3. The Beatles
4. Coldplay

J) Blogger I am Tagging:
1. Nobody...still new to the blogosphere so no need to tag anyone just yet.

Long runs are fun...who woulda thought?

2006-06-25T22:24:00.000-04:00

I have come to realize that I actually enjoy long runs more than the short ones. Not sure if it's because I do the long runs with the Running Room marathon clinic, or because of the great feeling that goes along with finishing a long distance, or a combination of the two...but I love them. And it's odd because before I started running late last year I never would have thought I could enjoy such things like a 10-mile run. Well now I do and the thought of doing longer runs each week excites me more and more...which is good because they are going to get a lot longer than today.

Speaking of which, Week 2 of the marathon program got off to a fabulous start at 8:30 this morning. The group run, with special guest Jelly, went for what turned out to be a 9.65 mile run on a route that included city streets, tree-covered paths, a cemetery and a nice downhill portion that offered a great view of downtown Toronto. Anyway, I felt absolutely fantastic and could have kept going had the program called for more mileage today. The weather was great, the sky was clear...it was just a great running day.

Oh yeah, Lady Garmin working like a charm!!

Score one for the World Cup and my Garmin!

2006-06-22T20:14:00.000-04:00

I love the World Cup. A month-long tournament that consumes the entire planet's attention and offers amazing commercial-free soccer games that bring out the fanatic in even the most casual fan. But it makes running fun too.

See, since the World Cup started I have noticed I try to keep track of the countless flags I see sticking out of car windows...I call it the "World Cup Running Game" and it makes miles fly by. I can never keep score perfectly but I think the top three are usually Portugal, England and Italy.

As for my new lady, Miss Garmin, she showed up on time tonight and all is forgiven...for now. Instead of standing on the street corner staring at my Garmin and waiting for it to get a signal, I opted to leave it on the ledge of a flower bed while I did some stretches. I took a peak after stretching my quadriceps and noticed Garmin was all ready for the run. Guess it likes to be as still as possible and facing up.

After back-to-back night's of tempo runs I was quite happy to see the schedule called for a 5-mile steady run. So I dropped my pace considerably and didn't worry about time (just under 45 minutes if you wanna know). Was quite muggy out and nowhere near as nice as the conditions the past two nights.

Garmin and I...it's a love hate kind of thing

2006-06-21T21:22:00.000-04:00

I've had five dates with my Garmin 305 since we met at the Running Room store last Wednesday night. Our first time out was a bit awkward since she really didn't "show up" (acquire a GPS signal) until about a mile into my seven mile run...but I looked past that since it was our first time and I, admittedly, wasn't too sure how to handle her either. The next three runs we clicked! She showed up on time, told me how fast I was clocking miles and after we enjoyed going over the data from our run at the computer with some cool drinks.

I wish I could say the same for tonight's 10K (6.2 mile) tempo run. The Running Room group was ready to go, I was all set, but my Garmin was late...again. Part of me understands, since the start of tonight's run was surrounded by skyscrapers, but then again, Tuesday night's run started at the same place and I didn't have any signal issues. Anyway, I talked to the store manager after the run and he offered some tips on how to smooth things between Garmin and I. I hope it works because I really do like her and want to keep this relationship going.

Anybody else have similar issues with their Garmin?

So, all I can say about tonight's run was it went well, despite being slipped by my Garmin, which for this run served only as a stopwatch. Ran for 47 minutes in 12 minute and 6 minute intervals. Started slow for 6 minutes, then picked it up for 12 minutes etc. etc.

If the shoe fits...

2006-06-20T21:35:00.000-04:00

A nice perk of the Running Room's marathon clinic is the weekly discussions on a variety of running issues. Tonight's topic was proper shoe selection...very fitting since shoes are our most important piece of equipment. Anyway, won't bore you with the details, but I will say that the shoes should be comfy the day we buy them and we should not count on a break-in period.

After the talk we headed out for a 4.65-mile tempo run along the water on a beautiful night. Finished in 31:44 and, according to the Garmin 305, knocked off the 3rd mile in 6:34! Felt great after the run and enjoyed some free grape-flavored Propel courtesy of the RR.

Finally, thanks to Jelly for creating this blog and handing it off to me...look forward to sharing more of my stories and reading more of yours.

Blogosphere reluctance

2006-06-19T20:20:00.000-04:00

My idiot training friends each have a blog about running. And they started this one for me after complaining that I was being uncooperative by not sharing my running experiences online like they were.
So hello.

I *officially* started to train for the Chicago Marathon yesterday. I'm using a Running Room program, instead of the Higdon plans both Yumke and Jelly are subscribing to. I ran 9 miles. Today is a rest day. Monday is always a rest day.

I just got a shiny new Garmin 305. The first time I took it out for a run, it didn't catch a signal. But the next couple of times have been much better. I love downloading the data to see what I've done.

And in this forum I will share such information with you, because it's unfair for me to have this relationship where I read all about the rest of you Chicago-bound runners, and you know nothing about me.

Good luck to all.