One foot in front of the other.
Date: 3/12/10
Consecutive Days Run: 71
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: La Sportiva Wildcat GTX
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Quickie
Time of Day: 7:33 PM EST
Distance Run: 1.46 miles
Time Run: 00:11:49
Average Pace: 08:06 per mile
Weather Conditions: Cold-ish (40 degrees Fahrenheit) WINDY, Raining
Disposition: Good
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/26809642
About the Run: My assigned run for today was for an hour and fifteen minutes fairly slow. It was only a mile.
I knew early in the day today that this was a very distinct possibility due to the weather. Forecasters were calling for rain and high winds, and they were not mistaken. To be honest, as one who has been in them, this seemed very much akin to a cold weather hurricane. I let Coach Jeff know that this was a possibility and he understood. To be fair, I did have a good swim today already and this was more a recovery run than anything.
During the run itself, I was literally blown sideways several times and stopped dead in my tracks others. The weather for tomorrow is supposed to be even worse, with the rains coming in downpours and the winds reaching forty plus miles per hour. Fortunately, my workout for tomorrow calls for a 3.5 hour ride, which must be done on the trainer, followed by a 15 minute transition run to get my legs used to going from bike to run.
Kimberly (#3130) – Dallas Rock ‘n’ Roll Half-Marathon
Michael (#1242) – Dallas Rock ‘n’ Roll Half-Marathon
Mark – Dallas Rock ‘n’ Roll Half-Marathon
If you are even tangentially involved in triathlon then you have likely heard something about what is one of the year’s most anticipated new races, the Abu Dhabi International Triathlon.
The race, which takes place tomorrow, March 13, 2010 is boasting a completely stacked Men’s and Women’s professional field which includes names such as Faris Al-Sultan, Eneko Llanos, Julie Dibens and Tereza Macel.
The course itself caters to racers who are stronger cyclists. The course features a 3K, 2 lap swim, a 200K bike and 40K, 2 lap run. This should allow for those racers who are often run down in some races after a strong bike leg, to not have so far to carry their lead off the bike.
To see the odds for the professionals, click the links below:
Abu Dhabi Triathlon odds: Women
The prize money breakdown is as follows:
Position Male Pro Female Pro
1st $50000 $50000
2nd $20000 $20000
3rd $15000 $15000
4th $10000 $10000
5th $7500 $7500
6th $5000 $5000
7th $3000 $3000
8th $2000 $2000
9th $1500 $1500
10th $1000 $1000
Total $115000 $115000
Age Group Male Female
>19 $1000 $1000
20-24 $1000 $1000
25-29 $1000 $1000
30-34 $1000 $1000
35-39 $1000 $1000
40-44 $1000 $1000
45-49 $1000 $1000
50-54 $1000 $1000
55-59 $1000 $1000
60+ $1000 $1000
Total $10000 $10000
Date: 3/11/09
Consecutive Days Run: 70
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Sir Isaac Guidance Trainers
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Embarrassingly Slow
Time of Day: 2:23 PM EST
Distance Run: 7.11 miles
Time Run: 01:03:25
Average Pace: 8:55 per mile
Weather Conditions: Cool (50 degrees Fahrenheit), windy
Disposition: Good
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/26742524
About the Run: I keep wondering what adjective Coach Jeff will come up with next to impress upon me just how slow he wants me to go. Last time it was “embarrassingly” slow and this time it was “painfully” slow. So, I ran slow.
There isn’t too much to say about this run other than it really did feel good to take time and have a nice recovery run. My legs have been dragging a tiny bit lately and Jeff has taken this well into account the past few days. I don’t really have too terribly much to say about this run except that it got done. It was quite windy on the way uptown, but since I wasn’t trying to do anything with speed I really didn’t mind. On the way back downtown, the wind at my back was barely there and actually made me feel really comfortable instead of borderline cold as I was on the way up.
The next few days will be very interesting as there is a wicked weather system heading our way that will bring downpours and heavy winds on Saturday and more rain on Sunday. So, I guess my friend the dreadmill and I will be seeing each other.
LEXINGTON, MA (March 10, 2010) – Saucony, Inc, a leading global supplier of performance athletic footwear and apparel, today announced the signing of Olympic triathlete Jarrod Shoemaker, ranked 10th in the world and top American in 2009, and Sarah Groff, a member of the USA Triathlon National Team, to multi-year endorsement contracts. Shoemaker is the winner of the 2009 Hamburg World Championship Series Race and the ITU Duathlon World Championships, while Groff, who competed in her first World Cup race in 2005, vaulted to the #4 World Cup ranking and top American in 2008.
“Saucony has such a rich history in the sport of triathlon, and I’m thrilled to have a partner with the experience, knowledge and products to compete at the highest levels,” said Jarrod Shoemaker. “The brand’s focus on innovation is really apparent in their training and racing gear. Their AMP PRO2 training and recovery apparel is allowing me to train harder and recover faster. I look forward to proudly representing Saucony as I continue in my quest for the 2012 Olympics.”
Shoemaker qualified for the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team by finishing as the top American 11th overall at the 2007 ITU Beijing World Cup. He earned his first world cup podium finish with second at Edmonton in 2006 and in 2004 he was the Under 23 National Champion and the 2005 Under 23 World Champion. In 2009 Shoemaker was named USAT Elite Triathlete of the year. Shoemaker is a graduate of Dartmouth College.
“I’m honored to represent a brand that is both motivating and authentic,” said Sarah Groff. “Saucony truly appreciates the technical needs of the triathlete and they really work hard to provide every advantage possible when designing footwear and apparel. I’m thrilled that Saucony is now part of my Olympic focus.”
Groff’s other accomplishments include winning the 2007 ITU Aquathlon World Championships, finishing 2nd at ITU World Team Championships, finishing 4th at Edmonton World Cup in 2007 and earning All-NESCAC and All-American honors as a freestyle swimmer at Middlebury College.
“Jarrod and Sarah are an exciting addition to our Saucony triathlon roster,” said Richie Woodworth, president of Saucony. “Both embody the competitive spirit of the brand and their passion for winning is an inspiration to the whole Saucony team. We look forward to their input as we continue to develop the finest performance footwear and apparel for runners and triathletes everywhere.”
Both Shoemaker’s and Groff’s race schedules for 2010 include:
· ITU World Championship Series – Sydney, Australia
· Hy-Vee ITU Elite Cup – Des Moines, Iowa
· ITU World Championship Series – Hamburg, Germany
· ITU World Championship Series – London, England
· ITU World Championship Series – Kitzbuehl, Austria
· ITU World Championship Finale – Budapest, Hungry
Shoemaker and Groff join other Saucony triathletes, including: Ironman World Champion Kate Major; 11-time Ironman champion Lisa Bentley; 2-time Ironman champions Dede Griesbauer and Michael Lovato; Longhorn 70.3 champion Richie Cunningham; and top U.S. triathlete Linsey Corbin, among others.
Shoemaker lives and trains in Maynard, MA and Groff in Hanover, NH.
About Saucony, Inc.: Saucony, Inc., a subsidiary of Collective Brands, Inc., is a leading global supplier of performance athletic footwear and apparel with its widely recognized brands Saucony and Saucony Originals. For more information, go to www.saucony.com.
From the New York Post
By LACHLAN CARTWRIGHT and BILL SANDERSON
A helmet may not be enough to protect cyclists from Google Maps’ latest feature.
The search engine rolled out a “bicycling directions” option yesterday that is filled with potentially fatal flaws, including routes that cut across Central Park’s treacherous tranverse roads and steer cyclists to truck-riddled thoroughfares.
A Post reporter rented a bike on the Hudson River Greenway at 42nd Street and plotted a course to Hunter College — and quickly discovered the hard way that Google has a lot to learn about the streets of New York.
After a traffic-snarled ride up Eighth Avenue, our intrepid cyclist was sent on a semi-circle around Columbus Circle, and soon found himself holding up a line of 15 angry motorists — many leaning on their horns — on the narrow and frightening 65th Street Transverse, which does not have a bike lane.
Google overlooked the far safer Park Drive that loops through the park.
In Brooklyn, Google steers cyclists into the path of anti-bike Hasidic Jews by designating Bedford Avenue between Division and Flushing avenues in Williamsburg as a legitimate bike route. The city sandblasted away that street’s bike lane last year after protests.
Google mappers owned up to the woes. “The team does know about some of the problems in New York,” said spokeswoman Elaine Filadelfo.
There were more problems with the parks.
Inside Central Park, Google shows The Mall and some footpaths south of 72nd Street as bike paths — although park rules make them definitely off-limits.
“The parks are one of the things we need to work on,” Filadelfo admitted. “We don’t have great data for them.”
Among the other problems: Google directs New Jersey-bound cyclists over the north path of the George Washington Bridge, even though the bridge’s official bike path is on the south side.
From Midtown to Yankee Stadium, Google Maps sends cyclists up Central Park West and then on a hazardous 30-block stretch of Frederick Douglass Boulevard to the Macombs Dam Bridge.
A safer pick would have been up St. Nicholas Avenue and eventually over the Madison Avenue Bridge.
Bike advocates like Google’s effort, and say it will help recreational cyclists find safe paths.
“The fact that Google is taking it on brings it to millions of mobile devices and computers,” said Wiley Norvell of Transportation Alternatives. “We’re enthusiastic.”
By New York Road Runners
NEW YORK — A knee injury has forced 2009 ING New York City Marathon champion Meb Keflezighi to withdraw from next week’s NYC Half-Marathon, it was announced today by New York Road Runners officials.
The NYC Half-Marathon on Sunday, March 21, is the richest half-marathon in the United States, with a prize purse of $100,000. The race boasts a men’s field led by marathon world record-holder Haile Gebrselassie of Ethiopia, two-time ING New York City Marathon winner Marilson Gomes dos Santos of Brazil, and United States Olympians Anthony Famiglietti and Abdi Abdirahman. The women’s field features 2004 Olympic marathon bronze medalist Deena Kastor of the United States and 2009 London Marathon runner-up Mara Yamauchi of Great Britain.
“Due to a setback in my training a few weeks ago, I will not be prepared to compete in the NYC Half-Marathon,” Keflezighi said in a statement to NYRR officials. “The New York Road Runners have assembled a great field once again, and I was looking forward to being a top contender. But I developed soreness on my left knee that required me to take several days off and cut back on mileage for a few weeks. Since I lost most of the build-up phase of my marathon training in February, I will have to pass on a tune-up race and focus my time on preparing for the Boston Marathon [next month].”
Keflezighi has not raced since his historic victory last November, when he became the first American winner in New York since 1982, when Alberto Salazar won the last of his three consecutive titles.
Content courtesy of New York Road Runners
Tampa, FL (Vocus) March 11, 2010 –Magnetic, a full-service web design and development company based in Tampa, Florida, today announced the launch of the new e-commerce web site aimed towards triathletes and endurance sport athletes of all abilities. Triathletes from around the world will now be able to purchase their favorite swim, bike, and run products online at the new Ironman360.com (http://www.ironman360.com) web site.
“We investigated several custom website development companies (http://www.magnetic.com/web-development/) before we contracted with Magnetic,” said Hunter Jewett, Vice President and General Manager of World Endurance Sports, LLC. “We knew that we wanted a sophisticated and professional site, but it also had to incorporate the latest flash development, social networking and ease of use functionality. Magnetic’s marketing team led us through a site development plan with a look and feel that epitomized what we were after.”
The new site contains a fully-functioning shopping cart system which will allow customers to browse and then purchase triathlon-related products from an inventory of several hundred products from the most well-known brands for Ironman (http://ironman.com/) triathletes. While shopping on the site, customers can navigate through the inventory by category, brand, or even by products that their favorite professional triathlete uses.
“As a company that encourages fitness and a healthy lifestyle for our employees, we are extremely proud to be partnering with Ironman360,” says Jennifer Bakunas, President and CEO of Magnetic. “We have a number of employees who compete in triathlons and running races (http://www.magnetic.com/recent-news/Magnetic-Places-1st-In-Gasparilla-15K-Race-Mixed-Team-Division), so our enthusiasm for fitness mixed with our web development services have allowed us to create a site that will grow into an exciting online resource for endurance sport enthusiasts.”
In addition to the new web site, Ironman360.com recently opened a physical store in Tampa. The 4,000 sq. ft. store is outfitted with a full complement of the latest triathlon products and also includes a service center where customers’ bicycles can be upgraded and fixed.
“Their developers and project manager created a fantastic site that would allow a user to identify products quickly, with easy navigation and thoughtful controls. The whole experience in dealing with Magnetic was a pleasure and I cannot say enough good things about them,” Jewett continued. “For 31 years, Ironman® has been recognized for excellence, performance and quality products. With Magnetic’s help, we can now offer the best multi-sport products available to endurance athletes around the world!”
Date: 3/10/10
Consecutive Days Run: 69
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Newton Gravitas
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Quickie
Time of Day: 6:23 PM EST
Distance Run: 1.35 miles
Time Run: 00:11:13
Average Pace: 08:20 per mile
Weather Conditions: Pleasant (50 degrees Fahrenheit)
Disposition: Tired
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/26686269
About the Run: Most if not all athletes will tell you that the single most important part of recovery is rest. I am included in this belief and have discovered a couple of things about how my body recovers.
IN the past, when I have not been training so hard or so focused, I found that I could deprive myself of sleep a little bit and not be terribly affected. However, when I found myself unable to sleep the other night and eventually falling into a restless nap sitting on my couch, I was unaware just how much I needed real sleep. It’s not that I need (or can get) an extremely long sleep, but rather I just need to be consistent. In other words, that one night of little sleep followed by two nights of eight solid hours still leaves me in the hole and recovering from my one night of restlessness.
I know that consistent sleep will become an increasingly difficult task with our little one on the way, but I feel like I am a very slight bit ahead of the game having realized this fact of my body before she gets here.
My run tonight was simply one that I got done. There was nothing special or fast about it. Having swum earlier in the day and with time on the trainer in the evening yet to come, I just wanted to get it over and done with. So, as soon as I got home, I was out the door again to run. It felt decent, but my body was just fighting fatigue so much that I couldn’t truly enjoy it.I was so tired, in fact, that I went to bed without writing this post (which is why it’s being posted the day after that run).
Today is a nice, easy, recovery run. I am actually looking forward to it, and to getting back into my sleep rhythm.
San Diego, Calif. – The Challenged Athletes Foundation® (CAF), a world leader in helping challenged athletes get involved – and stay involved – in sports announces the launch of two of their premier fundraising events: CAF Million Dollar Challenge, Presented by Qualcomm – a 7-day, 620-mile fully supported cycling adventure down the California Coastline from October 16-22, 2010 and the 17th Anniversary Aspen Medical Products San Diego Triathlon Challenge – a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike and 13.1 mile run distance triathlon and festival in La Jolla, CA on Sunday, October 24, 2010. Both events raise more than $1 million each for CAF and help physically challenged individuals get off the side-lines and into the game.
CAF MILLION DOLLAR CHALLENGE, Presented by Qualcomm – October 16-22
***CELEBRITY GUEST PARTICIPANTS***
• Former UCLA and pro basketball star Bill Walton.
• Top pro riders from Garmin-Transitions professional cycling team.
Register here: www.mdc2010.kintera.org
Learn more: www.cyclemdc.com
For the fifth consecutive year, the Challenged Athletes Foundation’s Million Dollar Challenge (MDC), Presented by Qualcomm, will take-on the rugged California Coastline during a 7-day, 620-mile unforgettable charity ride, which has earned a reputation as one of the premier cycling events in the country. The ride combines a challenging personal journey for participants with the satisfaction of making a difference in the lives of others. MDC combines world-class service from a team of ride support professionals with premier accommodations, fabulous meals and amenities.
This year will be filled with stand-out special guests including top pros from the Garmin-Transitions pro cycling team and former UCLA and pro basketball star Bill Walton, who after 36 surgeries himself, understands the importance of good health and the role of fitness and sport in enhancing peoples’ lives. He shares the following sentiments when asked about the value of CAF’s mission: “I support the cause because it’s about dreams and sports for everybody.”
When Bill says “everybody,” he means everybody – size, ability or physical disability shouldn’t impede an individuals opportunity to be active. This includes his new friend and current UCLA student Scout Bassett. The two athletes – Bill towering at 6’11” and Scout standing tall at 4’8” – share the same love for the UCLA Bruins, both have custom made bikes from Holland (due to their size), share a passion for cycling and will lead out one day of the ride. Together they are proof that athletes come in all shapes and sizes. (See the attached images for the dramatic effect)
Aspen Medical Products SAN DIEGO TRIATHLON CHALLENGE – October 24
***LIMITED-TIME SPECIAL OFFER***
10% OFF the San Diego Triathlon Challenge Entry Fee (Extension)
Register before 3pm (PST) on Friday, March 12 to receive the discount.
Register here: www.sdtc10.kintera.org
Learn more: www.challengedathletes.org/compete/SDTC_Intro.htm
CAF’s Aspen Medical Products San Diego Triathlon Challenge, a half-distance triathlon and festival, began almost two decades ago as a fundraiser to help a fellow injured triathlete and has grown into a celebration of life and sport that is making a difference in the lives of physically challenged athletes around the world. It is an event unlike any other in the world. Inspiration, perspiration and determination are the words of the day, as more than 125 of the world’s top physically challenged athletes take on this grueling yet rewarding course alongside 550 able-bodied triathletes, celebrities and pros.
“The CAF event in San Diego is the greatest day in our sport” said 2009 SDTC participant, professional triathlete and 2007 Ford Ironman World Champion, Chris McCormack. “What I experienced in San Diego with CAF was the most inspiring day of my life. To be a part of what this amazing Foundation does and how they change lives for people was so motivating; it gave me a purpose. I was inspired, and wanted to do more.”
Don’t miss your chance to participate, sponsor, donate to an athlete or volunteer for one of these life-changing events.
Date: 3/9/10
Consecutive Days Run: 68
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Newton Gravitas
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Build
Time of Day: 2:24 PM EST
Distance Run: 10.85 miles
Time Run: 01:18:47
Average Pace: 07:15 per mile
Weather Conditions: Pleasant (56 degrees Fahrenheit) Windy
Disposition: Decent
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/26594839
About the Run: My run today was ironic because it hurt and did not feel any kind of good until I was done, but I did exactly what was assigned and I did it quite well. My assigned run was: Warm up very easy zone 2 10 minutes then run 60 minutes at your 1/2 marathon pace. Cool down and jog the remainder. Upon getting past the first ten minutes of warm up, I simply didn’t have the energy to move. However, I dug and literally said, “Screw it” out loud and got moving.
The sixty minutes at half-marathon pace hurt like hell. I did have to keep an eye on my Garmin because this was a pace specific run. For whatever reason, I could not get myself to lock into my actual half-marathon pace which is 7:15 per mile. When I tried knocking my pace back to that, it felt stilted and very uncomfortable. However, when I upped the pace, I felt ok. While my overall pace for the entire run, including the warm up and cool down, was 7:15 per mile, my pace for the intense part was 7:02 per mile. I’m happy about the run in general, I just wish it felt better!
Date: 3/8/10
Consecutive Days Run: 67
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Newton AW Trainers
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Quickie
Time of Day: 6:20 PM EST
Distance Run: 1.71 miles
Time Run: 00:17:43
Average Pace: 10:20 per mile
Weather Conditions: Cool (51 degrees Fahrenheit)
Disposition: Good, but with tired legs
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/26505486
About the Run: Happy tenth birthday to our baby girl Annie! No, not the human baby girl, but the canine version of our baby girl. She is ten years old today and for her birthday, she wanted to go for a run with her dad and I was more than happy to oblige.
Whenever I run with either of my dogs, it really give me a chance and pause to see how they literally stop and smell everything. Even when they don’t stop, they’re still taking in everything around them. They aren’t jaded or oblivious to the incredible world with which they are surrounded, they are simply fascinated to be in it. This innocence always touches me. Even when I get upset with one of our dogs, they will always say they love me no matter how angry I am.
The run was good, but slow. Don’t be fooled by her age, Annie is fully capable of breaking down and going far faster than I am, but she just likes to take her time. My legs are a bit weary so it was probably a good thing to take it easy.
I rescued Annie from the Albermarle County, Virginia SPCA when she was just eight weeks old. Our other dog, Bubba was rescued from the North Shore Animal League two years ago. Danielle and I strongly support rescuing dogs and cats and other animals from humane shelters. Please consider donating to Me and the Road and helping to support the North Shore Animal League. You can donate by linking through Me and the Road or by going directly to the donation site located at: http://meandtheroad.bbnow.org
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Serves: 6
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Spray a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray.
To prepare the crust, put the oats, flour and salt in the bowl of a food processor and pulse 3 times to combine. Add the butter and pulse about 12 times, until you get a pebbly course texture. Add the buttermilk and pulse 3 to 5 times more to combine. Form the mixture into a ball and place it between 2 large pieces of waxed paper. Roll out into a circle about 10 inches in diameter.
Remove the top sheet of waxed paper. Transfer the crust, still on the other piece of waxed paper to the pie dish, then remove the waxed paper from the top. Press the crust gently into the dish. Bake for 9 minutes, then let cool.
To prepare the filling, heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a large nonstick pan over a medium-low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized, about 20 minutes. Transfer the onions to a bowl. Add the remaining 2 teaspoons of oil to the pan and heat over a medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they have released their water and begin to brown, about 6 minutes. Add the onions back to the pan, stir in the salt, pepper, mustard and thyme.
In a medium bowl whisk together the eggs, egg whites and evaporated milk.
Sprinkle the cheese into the pie crust. Top with the mushroom-onion mixture and pour the egg mixture on top. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F. Bake for 35 minutes or until knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting into 6 wedges and serving.
Nutritional analysis per serving (Serving size: 1 wedge)
Calories 270; Total Fat 14 g; (Sat Fat 6 g, Mono Fat 5 g, Poly Fat 1 g) ; Protein 14 g; Carb 24 g; Fiber 2 g; Cholesterol 125 mg; Sodium 430 mg
Excellent source of: Protein, Riboflavin, Phosphorus, Selenium
Good source of: Vitamin A, Niacin, Vitamin D, Pantothenic Acid, Calcium, Iodine, Iron, Potassium
Date: 3/7/10
Consecutive Days Run: 66
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Newton Gravitas
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: LSD
Time of Day: 4:12 PM EST
Distance Run: 14.41 miles
Time Run: 01:48:25
Average Pace: 07:31 per mile
Weather Conditions: Cool (56 degrees Fahrenheit)
Disposition: Decent
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/26421843
About the Run: I was very pumped and excited for my run today because I had just watched a replay of the 2008 Ironman World Championship in Kona. So, I headed out to the first “warm enough for shorts” day of the year ready to run. However, about twenty-five minutes into my run, I almost stopped.
For whatever reason, maybe because we had family in town and we had a delicious breakfast, my stomach felt horrible. In any event, when I wasn’t fighting the urge to stop and double over, I felt pretty good and much to my own surprise, made it for the full time of my assigned run. The day was stunningly gorgeous and I can’t imagine not spending time out in it. My legs felt my forty mile ride from yesterday less than I thought they would. I think one of thing that really helps with that is having a shorter than most stride and a higher than most turnover.
I sure hope we’re on a genuine upswing in terms of the seasons and I REALLY can’t wait until the time change in two weeks! I will say this though; my thoughts are increasingly dominated by the pending birth of my daughter. I find it hard to concentrate on virtually anything else!
Date: 3/6/10
Consecutive Days Run: 65
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Newton AW Trainers
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Quickie
Time of Day: 8:25 PM EST
Distance Run: 1.74 miles
Time Run: 00:13:08
Average Pace: 07:33 per mile
Weather Conditions: Cool (46 degrees Fahrenheit)
Disposition: Good, Full
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/26283649
About the Run: My mother and brother-in-law came in town today to visit us one final time before d-day. This evening, the four of us went out to dinner and I had a big, delicious burger. Needless to say, after dinner I was a bit full but still had to get my run in for they day. So, upon coming home, I took a minute to go to the grocery store to grab some ingredients for breakfast, but then got home to prepare for my run.
I changed and headed out the door. I felt decent considering the burger sitting in my belly and got the run done fairly quickly. In fact, seeing as I had ridden about 40 miles earlier in the day on what was a very windy day, I was actually surprised at my pace. In any event, I am sort of looking forward to my run tomorrow. It’s a pretty long one coming in at one hour, forty-five minutes but it’ll be fun! The weather is supposed to be incredible, so that will really add to my run. I only hope I can get my clothing right on what will be the first warmER day of the season.
Date: 3/5/09
Consecutive Days Run: 64
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Newton AW Trainers
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Recovery Run
Time of Day: 6:29 PM EST
Distance Run: 8.49 miles
Time Run: 01:15:42
Average Pace: 08:54 per mile
Weather Conditions: Cool (41 degrees Fahrenheit), Windy
Disposition: Good
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/26179069
About the Run: The title of this post pretty much sums it up: embarrassingly slow. Now, I didn’t do that because of some injury or because I was too worn out, but rather because Jeff, my coach, asked me to. His exact instructions were: Very very easy run today. Embarrassingly slow! So, I obliged.
The run itself went pretty well, but I must say, when you’re used to pushing the envelope, getting out and fighting the urge to cut loose (which I gave into for about the last quarter mile or so) is extremely difficult. In fact, I remember reading somewhere that when it comes to the number of steps taken in a minute, speed is not really a factor. In other words, if I run at a 6:30 pace, I am taking the same amount of steps per minute as I would be if I were running an 8:00 pace. The only difference is the amount of ground covered. That said, since I took far longer to cover the 8.49 miles that I ran tonight than I normally would, I took far more steps than I normally would. Thus, chaffing. Oh well, it was kind of cool going slow.
Continuing the surge of athletes joining the team this year, Hydrapak announces the latest addition to their ultra running family: 2009 TransRockies Women’s Champion Devon Crosby-Helms
“Joining the Hydrapak team was an easy decision,” says Devon Crosby-Helms. “I believe in the products. For me, the Gel-bots and Soft Flasks are an absolute part of my essentials now. I am able to stay on top of my nutrition and hydration needs easily, without having to fuss with wrappers or packages. Using Gel-bots and Soft Flasks saves me minutes and seconds in getting my nutrition in while racing. That may not seem like a lot, but during 50 and 100 mile races it can make a huge difference. To me, the details matter and Hydrapak covers two of the most important, hydration and nutrition.”
“Hydrapak provides ultrarunners an edge by providing the newest and most innovative products for a sport where efficiency matters” said Jim Vernon, Team Manager at Hydrapak. “With Devon supporting our mission, we have another highly regarded athlete, with extensive nutritional expertise backing up strong performances, spreading the good word.”
After bursting on the Ultra scene in ’07 with many impressive finishes, including several course records, Devon has continued to excel and is now recognized among the world’s top ultra distance runners. In 2009, she held the ultra running world on the edge of their seats as she and her running partner, Caitlin Smith, battled seasoned veterans to win the Gore-Tex Challenge Stage Race through Colorado. She then went on to crush course records in several races including The JFK 50, the oldest and largest Ultra race in the country.
Devon’s upcoming schedule includes: the Napa Valley Marathon, March 7th, Lake Sonoma 50 M, March 27th, American River 50 M, April 10th, Big Sur Marathon, April 25th, Ice Age Trail 50 M, May 8th and the Western States 100 M, June 26th.
Keep up to date with Devon Crosby-Helms on her blog at www.devoncrosbyhelms.com.
Hydrapakis a leading global supplier of active lifestyle hydration equipment. With deep roots in cycling culture, Hydrapak produces a lineup of custom built hydration backpacks, reservoirs, and bottles for a variety of sports, including biking, hiking and running. Hydrapak components are also found on top manufacturers specializing in consumer, commercial and military purposes. Brought to life in 1996 and located in Oakland, CA, Hydrapak products can be found in major retailers and sport specialty stores throughout the world. More information can be found at www.hydrapak.com or by calling 510.632.8318.
For me, there are three types of “ists”. They are: realists, optimists and pessimists. I know that there are probably many other “ists” that you may be able to come up with, but in general and for the sake of this article, these are the main three. Of course, there are many derivations of these “ists” such as, optimistic realists, realistic pessimists and pessimistic realists.
I do realize that those last two seem to just have the words flipped around and at first glance that may not make such a difference to you. However, look at it like this; in an example where a first time marathoner says to someone, “I plan to run a 3:20 marathon”, the difference in reactions might be something like:
Realistic pessimist: “That’s a pretty ambitious time. You’d be better off just getting across the finish line.”
Pessimistic realist: “Yeah right. Maybe you should just focus on finishing strong.”
You still may not see much of a difference in those two, but to me, the message that is sent with those subtle differences means a lot. First though, I would like to give my definitions of the three main categories.
Realist: Someone who see things as very black and white. This can sometimes be mistaken for pessimism, but I believe that the intent is not to cut down, but rather just to not build unacceptable expectations.
Optimist: Someone who always looks at only the bright side of things. In it’s purest form I think that optimism often even ignores the true details of things so as to not let in anything negative to their own detriment.
Pessimist: Someone who is always trying to find the worst case scenario and point it out constantly to themselves and others. AKA “Debbie Downer”.
There have been some things that I have seen and read recently in the running/triathlon blogosphere that have brought me to the point of writing this article. In particular, there are a few people who are extremely accomplished and studious athletes, but their attitude, while I’m sure is founded in realism, has crossed the line into outright pessimism. From what I have seen this reaction comes as a direct result of other peoples unbridled optimism. What makes this incredibly frustrating to the point of making me angry, is that there seems to be an inability of our pessimistic friends to let others be happy.
But what separates the pessimists from the realists? The line between the two is often very hazy and I think changes depending upon perception. I have a very hard time distinguishing between the two myself and as as result, I have had to force myself to step back and try to place myself inside the head of some so that I can see that they truly are not trying to bring me or others down, but rather are just trying not to let us fly too high only to be brought crashing back down to reality.
I understand being in a realist mindset and in fact, I would actually define myself as an optimistic realist. I believe that the first thing someone should do is encourage others. After that, I feel it is very important to make sure that people know that they should not be disappointed if the outcome of whatever training or race they’re preparing for is less than they expected. I feel like people should have goals that are beyond their current selves, but not so far out that they’re constantly met with disappointment.
Then there are our buddies the optimists. I think it is so wonderful to see the world in all sunshine and rainbows but I just think that if that’s the case, when disappointment does in fact rear it’s head, the appearance the world crashing down is that much greater. There’s not too much I can say about unabashed optimism that wouldn’t take me back to talking about being realistic, so I’ll just leave this alone and move on.
I believe that most people are a mixture of two or all of these things. But, what is the use in being pessimistic? As I said before, I think pessimists believe they are being realistic and that they know better due to their experience or erudite view of others. I think this group should really exercise the on saying, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.” far more often.
Every now and then I’ll get an email from a listener that gets me so excited for them. Usually it is from someone who is about to go run their first marathon or something and they have an extremely lofty goal time. The first thing I do I to say, “that’s awesome!”. I say that not out of some obligation to be nice or polite, but I say it because I really do think it’s wonderful. As soon as I am done saying that though, I will usually let them know to make sure they have a contingency plan laid out in their mind. I refuse to be negative to any of my listeners/readers like that because I know from first hand experience that when you get into a race and something goes wrong, your mind is capable of throwing more negativity at you than you can handle. I believe that any goal, no matter how high, is one worth going after.
So, now that I have rambled along about my “ists”, what kind of “ist” are you?
“If you shoot for the stars and hit the moon, it’s OK… A lot of people don’t even shoot.”
Date: 3/4/09
Consecutive Days Run: 63
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Newton AW Trainers
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Middle distance for endurance
Time of Day: 2:26 PM EST
Distance Run: 9.14 miles
Time Run: 01:09:09
Average Pace: 07:33 per mile
Weather Conditions: Cool (45 degrees Fahrenheit)
Disposition: Good
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/26095528
About the Run: My assigned run for today was: Run a nice relaxed pace. Zone 2 Nice relaxed shoulders and hands. Tall and quiet. I took this very much to heart and was sure to take what felt like a very relaxed pace and posture. During this run I made a point of looking around and enjoying the scenery and ignoring anything to do with pace or effort, which is to say, I relaxed. I kept this up for the entire run, having no idea what my pace was the entire time. It felt good.
Since I usually do an out and back route when I run during the day, I got some wind in my face today. It wasn’t tremendously windy, but there was enough that it felt completely still on the way downtown. Once I turned around and headed back uptown, the wind hit me a little more. I remained relaxed as much as I could but I did catch myself picking up the effort more than I should have a couple of times. All in all, a very good, relaxed run.
Please consider donating to Me and the Road by going to: http://meandtheroad.bbnow.org
Thanks so much for visiting my site! My name is Brandon Wood and I am an opera singer living and trying to make it in New York City. This site and podcast follow my adventures on the way to competing in and training for all kinds of endurance events, especially triathlon and running. Click the "About Me" tab for more info!
