Wednesday, December 26, 2007

Wednesday 12-26-07

The Christmas feasts are over and its back to a sensible lifestyle. I swam one mile at the Y during lunch today. I need to hit the pool in a disciplined way especially with the lack of running I have been doing.

I have been accepted in the Masters' of Operations Management program at the University of Alabama. I will be taking classes online so my evening schedule is going to be busy. This is going to mean I am going to have to get my exercise regimen done in the mornings or at lunch.

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Tuesday 12-18-07

I want to give an update of my visit to Dr. Jacobs concerning my feet pain. (Incidentally, he is an excellent Podiatrist if anyone in Columbus should need to go to one.) He x-rayed each foot and determined there were no stress fractures and no signs of plantar fascitis. But, he did say I needed to let the dogs rest for several weeks because I basically "blew a tire" running the marathon. So, for four weeks there will be no running. I am going to have to find other things to do aerobically to stay in shape. He suggested swimming, elliptical machine. Any ideas? I guess my plans to train for another marathon in the early spring must be postponed. I have time. What is the hurry? My main focus now will be keeping the holiday pounds from creeping back on me.

Thursday, December 13, 2007

Thursday 12-13-07

It has been almost a week since my first marathon and I have recovered almost 100%. I still am having some pain in my feet, however, so I have made an appointment to see Dr. Jacobs next week to determine if I have any stress fractures. If not, I am back in training mode. I have decided I want to improve on my marathon time and compete in one after having trained at a higher level. If I get a good report from the doctor I am going to begin following a training schedule for intermediate marathoner runners I got from Runners' World magazine. My goal is going to be a sub 4:00 run. I believe I can do it now that I have found out just how important it is to pile on the miles during training and mix in speed work.

Sunday, December 9, 2007

Rocket City Marathon 2007

After a one week hiatus from my blog, I am back to give my account of the 2007 Rocket City Marathon of which I was a participant. It was an interesting and rewarding experience and I am thrilled to have my first marathon under my belt.

We arrived in Huntsville Friday night and I picked up my race stuff and we went to stay the night in Decatur with family. Up at 5:00 the day of the race feeling quite nervous about a number of things. My wife could not understand why I was so nervous about a simple race but most of you probably understand; "Have I trained properly?", "Am I wearing the right pair of shoes?", "Is my injured left foot taped up well enough and will it hold up for 26 miles?", "Can I finish?". The weather at the start of the race was unseasonably warm and drizzily. It actually rained lightly for the first couple of miles before stopping.

I felt really good for the first 7-8 miles and I stayed on a 9:00 minute pace. ( I had hoped to run a 4 hour race). Soon after mile 8 I started getting a cramp in my left ankle and had to work at keeping that to a minimum. My parents met me at mile 12 and gave me a boost seeing them. The race was really going well until the turn around point at mile 14. The cool breeze we had been enjoying stopped and I started feeling my energy level crashing. I was really hungry along then and could have eaten a couple of Big Macs if I had them. Instead I ate one of the energy gel Cliff Shots, which are nasty and did little to give me energy.

The rest of the race was pretty much an exercise in survival. I saw my parents again at miles 14 and 18 and then at mile 22, my wife was at the aid station with much needed nourishment, a banana and a tangerine; just the fuel I needed to get me to the finish. My longest run in my training program was 22.5 miles and in the race after that point was TOUGH. I knew I was going to finish but it really hurt every step I took. I had to stop two or three times and walk in the last few miles. At mile 25, I decided I was going to run all the way in and I did. I actually crossed the finish line in a normal gait looking better than I felt. With a time of 4:32, it was slower than I had hoped but I am thrilled to have finished.

Looking back on the race I realize now how very important it is to put in a lot of miles running during training. Because of my hurt foot I laid off running the last couple of weeks before the race and I think that had a negative effect on my performance. BUT, it was necessary to rest my foot or it would not have healed enough to allow me to finish. (I actually had it taped and supported so well, it gave me NO PAIN during the race).

Despite the pain and soreness in my legs a day after the race, I am proud of how well I did and looking forward to training for another.

Saturday, December 1, 2007

Saturday 12-1-07

Today was supposed to be my last long run before the race next week, 10-11 miles. Since I decided last week to let my foot rest and heal there was no running. But, I did swim one mile at the Y and rode my bike for 20 miles. I believe I had a comparable cardio workout. I do not think missing the run will really negatively affect my race next week. I just hope the foot heals enough that I won't be hobbling for most of 26 miles. The bike ride was not without incident as I took a nasty spill right behind the convention center on the riverwalk as I crossed a railroad track. Scraped up my left elbow, shoulder and hip. They are going to be sore in the morning.

Thursday, November 29, 2007

Thursday 11-29-07

After last Saturday's long run, my left foot has been hurting; so much so that I have decided to lay off running for the remainder of the time before the marathon. I am going to cross train instead. Both yesterday and today I swam one mile at the Y during lunch. I have really tried to increase my speed and I feel much stronger. The only problem, though, is it seems my times are no faster. It took me 44 and 43 minutes respectively for one mile which is not faster than I was doing six months ago. It is still a good workout, however.

For anybody interested, there will be a Masters Swimming program taught at the downtown Y starting in January from 5-6 AM on M,W,F. There must be 12 people enrolled, however, for the class to be held.

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Tuesday 11-27-07

The weather this morning was clear and cool, a perfect morning for running. I ran 6 miles at a little slower than a 8:30 pace which is fast for me. I never would have imagined three months ago I could run a 10K this fast. That just goes to show you what kind of progress you can make in a structured training program. This was a good run, legs were strong, wind was good and pain in knee and left foot was manageable.

Monday, November 26, 2007

Monday 11-26-07

It was pouring rain this morning but I was indoors anyway doing cross training; 30 minutes on the elliptical machine and 30 minute swim. I hate the pool at the downtown Y opening at 6:00 instead of 5:00; it is too crowded. I got new shoes yesterday so I will wear them this week and next and see if they can get broken in enough to wear them in the marathon.

Saturday, November 24, 2007

Saturday 11-24-07

With only two weeks to go before the marathon, the training runs will be mainly maintenance runs as the miles will decrease up until race day. Except for today when I was determined to make a long run to test my endurance. The weather down on the the riverwalk this AM was cold and windy and I really was not dressed warmly enough. I started at the convention center and headed south towards Ft. Benning. At the turn around point, the Garmin read 11.25 miles and when I headed in the other direction the wind was STIFF. It stayed that way for most of the return run and it didn't help that my feet and ankles hurt. This run of 22.5 miles today is my longest one yet and I will have to say I am as ready for the race as I can be. I have decided the marathon training experience for me has turned out to be more of an exercise in injury prevention and pain management than anything. Maybe it's that way for a lot of people, I don't know.

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Tuesday 11-20-07

As the workouts shorten in length the next two weeks, I am trying to focus more on speed in my weekly runs. Today I ran 7 miles in just under an 8:30 pace which is the fastest run of this length I have done in a long time. I actually set my Garmin Forerunner up with a virtual training partner set at 8:45 pace and I obviously finished ahead. I felt really good except for a very sore left knee. What is even better about the run is that the course is pretty hilly with a couple of grueling 1/2 mile hills thrown in.

Monday, November 19, 2007

Monday 11-19-07

I have only three weeks to go for the race in Huntsville. My training is beginning to taper off now and today I did only 60 minutes of cross training; 30 minutes on the elliptical machine and 30 minutes of swimming. I was supposed to run three miles Sunday but did not; opting instead to let my knee rest. I had a good run Saturday but it left my knee pretty sore.

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Saturday 11-17-07

I went to the riverwalk this morning a little later than I wanted but got off around 7:45. Temp was in the 30's and I had on gloves, hat and long sleeves. Beautiful sunny morning and it was a pleasurable run. I made it out to Ft. Benning and realized they had closed the gates onto the base because of the wackos in the SOA Watch. I ran up Lumpkin Rd. and saw a band of about 30 of them at the gate. Turned around and did a few little spurs to make a 16 miler. For the most part I hurt in the areas I expected; my left knee, OUCH! My left side is mucho sore. I am gaining the stamina I am going to need in only THREE weeks.

Friday, November 16, 2007

Thursday 11-15-07

Thankfully I awoke this morning to rain, which we need much more than my morning run so I postponed that until after work. I went to the downtown Y and started my run from there. The schedule was for a 6-7 mile tempo run so I started at a slow 9:30 pace and after a mile ramped up to an 8:30 pace and kept this up for 5 miles of the run. I felt good except for the nagging left knee pain. I finished 7.3 miles in a respectable 1:03 for a 8:42 average. Good run. Weather was nice except for a stiff northerly wind which I encountered on the return northern leg up the riverwalk.

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Wednesday 11-14-07

It is a good thing today was an easy, short day of running. I covered 4 miles at a snail's pace of 9:50. I guess I needed the rest from the 10 miler I did yesterday. It is odd and frustrating how various aches and pains affect my running each day. Today my knees hurt. My left one felt like someone hit right on the cap with a hammer. It is even sore to the touch. I don't know what has caused this but I hope it disappears as quickly and quietly as it came.

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Tuesday 11-13-07

Today was scheduled to be a 7-8 mile quality run. My hopes and prayers have been that I can solve the problem of my painful ankle and calves. This morning's run proved to be an answered prayer! For some reason, I had no pain in my ankle and consequently my calves felt comfortable. Since this was supposed to be a quality run I decided to do fartleks. I set the Garmin to alert every 1/2 mile and I ran that distance at an 8:30 pace or better and the next 1/2 mile at a 9:30 easy pace. I did this for most of the 10 miles I covered in 1:29 for a 8:54 average. Great run this morning! Perfect weather, could not have asked for better.

Monday, November 12, 2007

Monday 11-12-07

4-1/2 miles this morning. Easy pace as I am trying to deal with the pain in my right ankle. I feel like I am in adequate shape for the marathon coming up from a conditioning standpoint. I had no soreness in my legs from the 20 mile run Saturday and even felt like on that day I could have easily run 26. But, the pain in my ankle is the kicker. I have got to solve this in order to feel confident. I've still got 3 good weeks of training to go and 1 rest week before the Dec. 8th event in Huntsville, AL.

Sunday 11-11-07

After the long run yesterday, my calves and right ankle were pretty sore. There is something going on with that ankle and I don't know if it is a muscle strain or maybe the beginnings of shin splints. Either way, it is causing me to change my running stride and this is going to take some adjustments. I decided to ride my bike today for my 90 minutes of cross training I normally do on Monday. It is hard to squeeze that workout in during the week so i did it today. I rode from my house to Riverwalk down to Ft. Benning and back for a little over 24 miles.

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Saturday 11-10-07

Sometime some things are just not meant to happen. Last Saturday, Alabama was not meant to beat the LSU Tigers and I was not meant to finish my 18 mile run. Well, this Saturday was different. I had already decided instead of running the scheduled 15 mile run for this week I was going to make up the long run I missed from last week. I got to the Riverwalk a little before 7:00 ready for a good day of running. After the first 2 or 3 miles, it was evident my right ankle was going to be a problem. Evidently I hurt it last week and the only thing that gives it relief is to run very flat-footed or even up on my toes. So I altered my running posture to do that. This worked well for most of the run until the very end when my calves started cramping from the extra stress put on them from running on my toes.

Despite the nagging ankle, however, I really felt strong and ran all the way into Fort Benning to the end of 10th Division Rd. where I turned around. ( I wonder if it is OK for me to run there because I saw a sign that read "No Runners or Joggers") When I got back to Rotary Park I had made 18 miles but I decided to keep running and try to make 20. So I ran on down the walk for a mile and turned around. I finished 20.5 miles. I was not sure of the time, however, because I was using a new Garmin Forerunner I bought and it got screwed up somewhere along the way. Neither the total time nor the distance was even close to accurate. Anybody, what could I have done wrong with it?

Anyway, a great run and another milestone reached.

Thursday, November 8, 2007

Thursday 10-8-07

Today was supposed to be a 7-8 mile tempo run. I got out on a cold morning at 5:00 and after warming up, I decided to make it a little longer. I felt really good and finished 9.4 miles at a 8:59 pace. I had little if any pains, though I was pretty fatigued by the end. Good run.

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

Wednesday 11-7-07

Five miles this AM on my regular Midtown course. Weather was chilly, around 35 degrees. I wore gloves, long sleeves and skull cap-just right. I felt really good. Time was almost 47 minutes so pace was not super fast but I ran relatively pain free which was unusual.

Tuesday, November 6, 2007

Monday 11-5-07

Today is cross training day. Swam 3/4 mile at the Y in 34 minutes during lunch. It was a good swim. I felt like I could have swum for hours, but had to get back to work. After work it was back to the Y for almost an hour on the elliptical machine. I guess this will suffice for my scheduled 90 minutes of cross training.

Sunday 11-4-07

Back from Tuscaloosa about 6:00. Ran an easy 3 miles. It felt good to work some of the soreness out of my calves after yesterday's fiasco.

Monday, November 5, 2007

Saturday 11-3-07

Today's run was meant to be an 18 miler; the farthest yet. I had a few difficulties today and I ended up crashing and burning. To begin with, we were out of town for a football game and I planned on running on a course in Tuscaloosa, AL which would take me down a busy four lane parkway with some loooong rolling hills. Before it was all over I developed serious cramps in my calves and had to cut the run short and even then I had to walk for the last two miles. It was frustrating and disappointing not to be able to finish this run. I think the hilly course and my left heel pain caused the cramps in my calves. I hope this is not an indication that I will not be able to cover 26.2. I am going to keep on training, though, and see what happens.

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Wednesday 11-1-07

Since I decided to let my left heel rest for a few days, I did not run today. I instead went to the Y and did an elliptical machine workout for 45 minutes. At the speed I was going it worked out to 4.3 miles traveled.

Tuesday 10-30-07

Although the past couple of runs have been good ones, I believe I have hurt my left heel. It appears to be some kind of bruise, maybe just a stone bruise. But, in either case, the pounding hurts it. I have had to alter my running style to avoid the pressure on it. When I run up on my toes it relieves the pain but it is not a natural running position for me and is probably going to cause other problems. I ran an easy 3 miles this evening but after today I have decided to let my feet rest for a few days. I am not going to run again until this weekend. Hopefully this will give the bruise (if that is what it is) time to heal.

Monday, October 29, 2007

Monday 10-29-07

My training schedule has gotten a little out of sync the past couple of days but I am still going to maintain the minimum distances so I guess it really doesn't matter. I have been out of town today so I ran in the afternoon in the hotel fitness center on the treadmill. I typically hate running on a treadmill but I was determined to make this a beneficial workout. I somehow sense my training becoming stagnated and a creeping fear that I am not getting in proper shape for the marathon is growing. I decided to go ahead and do Tuesday's 7-8 quality run on the treadmill so I could get a better feel for my speed capability. I varied my speed from 6 mph to 8 mph for various periods of time as well as throwing in a few changes of incline from 3-5%. I ended up running 8-1/4 miles at a little over a 9 minute per mile pace. I am pretty psyched about it because I was able to see an improvement in my leg strength and ability to recover from a winded state. Man, it is hard to believe those runners averaging 6 minute miles because at the 7-1/2 minute pace I ran it felt like the treadmill was about to throw me in the floor. This was a another milestone workout for me.

Sunday 10-28-07

No running today but my son and I rode our bikes on the Riverwalk. It was a beautiful day and we had a great time. We rode from downtown to Ft. Benning and back for about 27 miles. I will probably let this count for my weekly cross training day and run instead on Monday. I have managed to stay on my marathon training schedule as I finish up week number 10. Only six weeks to go for the race in Huntsville, AL on December 8th.

Saturday, October 27, 2007

Saturday 10-27-07

I was back at the Riverwalk this morning for a long run. It was a beautiful morning, a little chilly with temp around 48. My plan called for a 15-16 mile run and I managed to make a little over 16. I ran from Rotary Park to Ft. Benning and back. There wasn't much traffic out there this morning. I met a few runners and cyclists but otherwise it was a quiet time on the river. I felt good that I was able to complete this run, but my feet and legs really hurt by the end. My left heel took a beating causing me to alter my running style to move the impact to another part of the foot. I hope this pain will subside as I pile on more mileage and better condition my feet.

Friday, October 26, 2007

Friday 10-26-07

My training schedule got off track slightly this week and this is supposed to be a rest day. I ran an easy 4 miles, however, since I missed Wed. run. Tomorrow is a long run ( 16 miles) so I need to get psyched up for it.

Thursday, October 25, 2007

Thursday 10-25-07

After taking off on Wednesday, I was anxious to get back out and put in the miles today. I got up before 4:00 and was out the door before 5:00. It was a beautiful morning, temp around 45, clear with a gorgeous full moon. I ran 7 miles in 62 minutes for less than a 9 minute per mile average. It was a great run and a great start to the day. My training schedule calls for Fridays to be off days but since I skipped Wednesday I will probably run tomorrow. Saturday is a 16 mile day so I need to get pumped up for that.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Tuesday 10-23-07

After the 1-1/2 hours of cross training yesterday evening I wondered how I would do on my quality run this morning. I was tired. I did make 8.3 miles in 1:20 which is much slower than I wanted to run but two factors played in today; tired legs and very humid weather. The high humidity zapped my strength. At least this run is over now, thank goodness.

Monday, October 22, 2007

Monday 10-22-07

Today was cross training day for 90 minutes. I swam for 30 minutes after work then rode bike on Riverwalk for an hour. Weather was threatening rain but I made the whole ride without any. The swim went well as I covered 3/4 mile in 31 minutes which is the fastest pace yet.

Sunday 10-21-07

I slept late today and we got up and went to church. I ran in the afternoon, around 5-1/2 miles. I felt good; it was one of the better runs in a while.

Saturday, October 20, 2007

Saturday 10-20-07

What a beautiful morning we had here today! Clear and temp in the low 50s. The best running weather yet. I went down to the riverwalk at Rotary Park and set off on what was to be a 10-11 easy run. I felt pretty good and ended up running 12 in under 2 hours; 1:51:51 to be exact. I can tell my endurance is growing. Two weeks ago I ran the same course and ALMOST DIED! This week was much improved. Left side still hurts with a vengeance and left achilles starting cramping towards the very end but in all it was a good run. Passed my friend Mike for the third time in as many weeks just finishing his run as I started. He is a good runner, his endurance amazes me.

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Thursday 10-18-07

I ran today after work. Weather was threatening rain but held off for the run. A tempo run was scheduled and I attempted to pick up the pace and turn in a faster time. I managed to cover 6.8 miles in 62 minutes for a 9:07 average pace. I was hoping to be able to break the 9 minute threshold but I was running about as fast as I could. More runs like these, however, are going to increase my stamina significantly. I considedr this to be a successful run.

Wednesday 10-17-07

I was lazy this morning so my running was put off until after work. I ran 5 miles in the evening in 46 minutes. Not too shabby. I don't typically like to run at this time of the day because of the heavy traffic in Midtown but sometimes that is the only way to do it.

Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Tuesday 10-16-07

The run this AM was tough. I covered 7.6 miles which was not difficult in itself but my legs were feeling the effects of the workouts Monday. Starting out, however, I felt good for the first two miles but it went downhill from there. In addition to that, the course I ran had a couple of hills that are difficult. For the most part this was a disappointing run. Weather was warm and humid.

Monday, October 15, 2007

Monday 10-15-07

Monday is cross training day and I swam for 30 minutes and biked for 40 minutes. Both workouts were great and I feel much stronger. My side feels MUCH better. There is almost no pain in my groin and lower abdomen. I have been praying for God to heal this injury and I have faith that He is doing just that. Tomorrow is an 8 mile faster run so I hope my legs hold up.

Sunday, October 14, 2007

Sunday 10-14-07

I went for an easy 4 mile run this evening. It is so nice to be able to exercise in the evenings without worrying about heat stroke. I was pretty tired. I guess the long run yesterday took a lot out of me.

Saturday, October 13, 2007

Saturday 10-13-07

Every long run I do now puts me past the point where I have ever run before. Way back in high school when I ran cross country I did some 8-9 mile training runs but nothing longer. Today's run of 14 miles is another milestone. I actually felt pretty good considering my aching groin and feet that have never run for this long. I'll admit the 2:16 time set no blazing pace but I was running with more spring in my step...a far cry from the dead man shuffle I was doing last week. I ran at the Riverwalk starting from Rotary Park and heading south to Ft. Benning and back. There was a Juvenile Diabetes Foundation function at Rotary Park this morning so it was pretty crowded. I am now rested, fed and ready to go watch with my friend Paul the Tide play Ole Miss on TV. ROLL TIDE!

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Thursday 10-11-07

For any of you golfers out there, you know the feeling when you hit the ball well. It is what keeps you coming back for more. The club face makes contact with the ball in the "sweet" spot and the sound is perfect...just a solid "tink" and the ball travels straight and true. Well, this is the way I feel when I have a good run and it has been a while since I felt that way. This morning I had that feeling after my tempo run for the week. It was a great run; 6.7 miles in 61 minutes. I had misgivings about the run before I started because I ran last night and when I went to bed, I was feeling sore and tired. Praise God for the strength to run this morning!
How was that for melodrama! Maybe a little, but it was a great experience and it motivates me to push on toward the marathon goal.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Wednesday 10-10-07

I was lazy this morning so instead of running, I slept. I did run when I got home after work; 4.1 miles in 38:45. I felt no different than I have; same aches and pains in the usual places.

Tuesday, October 9, 2007

Tuesday 10-9-07

Today's plan was for a 7-8 mile quality run so I was out a little earlier for a longer, tougher run. I actually made 8.2 miles through Midtown Columbus, this run was one of the best in a while. With a time of 1:18, it was still a slow 9:30 pace but that was with three 1 minute walking sessions mixed in along the way. If I can keep the pain in my side at bay and toughen up my feet without hurting them, I may be able to run this marathon.

Monday, October 8, 2007

Monday 10-8-07

Today's marathon training schedule calls for 60 minutes of cross training. I swam for 33 minutes at lunch at the Y covering 3/4 mile. I plan on riding my bike tonight to finish up the 60 minutes.

Later in the day...
After getting home from work and preparing dinner, I finished my 60 minutes of cross training with a 30 minute bike ride to downtown and back. This is the first time I have been on my bike since the Ft. Benning triathlon this summer. I felt great, having more strength in my legs than I remember.

Sunday, October 7, 2007

Sunday 10-7-07

The easy run of the week was today. 4 miles. I felt better than normal; certainly better than yesterday. I almost got run over again by the ever-present motorist failing to look right at an intersection. I guess I'll learn just to run around behind idiots like this instead of trusting them. The Lord was with me again.

Saturday, October 6, 2007

Saturday 10-6-07

I am really getting into the meat of my marathon training schedule now. Today is supposed to be a 12 mile easy run. Next week has two days of fast runs in the 6-8 mile range. So, you can see, it is time to see what I am made of. Well, the run today did little to boost my confidence concerning my ability to complete a marathon. The run went poorly, to say the least. My plans were to run the Riverwalk starting at Rotary Park and heading south for 6 miles and then back. I was prepared for the weather with my Camelbak (temp was in the mid 70s with high humidity). From the first steps, I knew it was going to be a long run. My legs felt like lead and my side hurt. That is the way things went for the entire run. And to make matters worse, my left shoulder pain came back and nagged me most of the run. To sum it up, this was not one of my better runs. I hope I can bounce back and keep up the training but this was a lousy excuse for a marathon prepping run. On the bright side, though, this was a great course and made running much easier. Up until now, I have been running on the streets and dodging out-of-control drivers. This gets old, especially once you get really tired.

Thursday, October 4, 2007

Thursday 10-4-07

Today was scheduled for a 5-6 mile tempo run. The purpose of this type of run is to stretch your cardiovascular capacity by forcing you to run more out of breath. I have been able to do this in only a limited manner as other things have held me back such as pains in my side, legs and feet. I did run a good 6-1/2 mile course including the big hill on 13h St. but my average speed was still more than 9 minutes per mile. My goal is to run these tempo runs in less than a 9 minute mile.

Even so, I feel like I am getting stronger. I am praying that God will take away this pain in my left side/groin. I go to an internist in two weeks to get it looked at but I do not want to have to stop my training to get it worked on. Unless the doctor says there is a serious problem, I am going to keep running with the pain.

Sunday, September 30, 2007

Sunday 9-30-07

After the long run of Saturday I thought maybe I would be really sore today. But, actually, I was not. We went to church, had lunch and I cam home and washed and waxed my car. Man, was it filthy! It had been months since I waxed it and this cleaning was long overdue. It took me most of the afternoon and then I went for a four mile run right before dinner. It felt good to work out a little soreness and see how my body bounced back from yesterday's long run. Every long run I do in this training sets a record for the longest I have run in a loooong time. 4 miles in 36 minutes.

Saturday, September 29, 2007

Saturday 9-29-07

We started the day in McDonough, GA where our son, Steven, was competing in a duathlon. This was a sprint length consisting of a 5K run, 14 mile bike and another 5K run. He did pretty well finishing in 1:36, third in his age group. He is excited and we are proud.

After a two hour nap this afternoon and watching Alabama play a sorry half of football, I took off for a run. My training schedule for today called for a 10-11 mile run. I debated whether to do that today or wait and do it on Sunday. So, I left the house thinking I might not run far. As I ran, though, I realized I needed a small victory today to prove something to myself. I hurt in several places, including my left foot, my left groin and side. I decided to forge ahead and by the time I got to the Riverwalk I had run over 4 miles and was feeling better. As a matter of fact, I got my second wind on the river and decided to run far enough to make it an out and back 11 mile run. On the way back my legs started feeling the effects but I kept up the pace. I ended up running about 10.7 miles in 1:36 which is as little better than a 9 minute pace. YES!

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Thursday 9-27-07

Well, the runs are getting longer in the morning and that means I have got to get started earlier or I am going to be late for work. This morning was just the opposite; I got started later. I just was dragging this morning and finally got out of the house at 5:45. I ran a little over 6-1/2 miles in what was supposed to be a faster tempo pace. That went not as well as I had hoped since I struggled up hills and battled fatigue in my legs. I ended up running it at a 9:13 pace which is a little faster than average for me. Someday I hope to be able to run faster. My next scheduled run is a Saturday 11 miler.

Monday, September 24, 2007

Monday 9-24-07

Today is the start of week 6 of my training schedule. 45 minutes of cross training had me at the pool swimming a mile. Swimming is a great way to increase cardiovascular capacity and I think this is going to help my training tremendously.

Sunday, September 23, 2007

Sunday 9-23-07

We were in Tuscaloosa, AL this weekend to visit our daughter and watch Alabama get rolled by Georgia. Not a perfect weekend as my team came up short. I ran 9.5 miles on Saturday morning early before we left town. I ran from our house down to the riverwalk and back. Man, am I slow! My time came in at over a 10 minute mile average. My side/groin hurt mercilessly. I am beginning to have second thoughts about the viability of being able to run a marathon. I have an appointment with a surgeon on Oct. 18th to get it checked out, so until then I am going to keep on my training schedule and bear the pain. Weather was hot and humid Sat. AM, I wore the camelbak and NEEDED IT! I lost volumes of water during that run.

Sunday after getting back in town, Steven and I ran 3.1 miles through the neighborhood. Easy run, just as the schedule calls for.

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Thursday 9-20-07

Today's workout called for a 4-5 mile tempo run. This is supposed to be a run where you push yourself and run at a uncomfortable, even painful pace. Well, as usual, I started out with my side hurting and that took at least a 1/2 mile to work out. Then as i got into the meat of the run, my stomach starting cramping. To make this long story short, my run turned out to be a bust. I was able to finish the 5 mile run at an average easy pace of 9:12 but nothing like it should have been. Oh well, I guess I am thankful just to be finishing. The next run, hopefully, will be better. I have got a 9 miler scheduled for Saturday.

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Wednesday 9-19-07

My training schedule calls for a 3-4 mile easy run today. I ran 4 easy miles, time was 38 minutes flat. The first 1/2 mile was fairly painful with my side hurting but after that the pain eased off and it was a good run. Great weather, temp in the lower 60's, air dry...great running weather.

I went to the doctor yesterday to discuss the possible hernia. They could not tell from an external examination I had any problems. I have an appointment with a surgeon next month to discuss what could be causing the pain in my lower abdomen. It could still be a hernia but deep enough not to be felt bulging.

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

NASA Racing Championships

I know it appears from my lack of commentary on my auto racing venture, that things have taken a back seat to real life issues. Well, that is pretty much the case. A serious lack of funds has indefinitely put my project on hold. It is disappointing but until some things change I won't be behind the wheel. That doesn't stop me from dreaming, however, and last week's NASA National Championships at Mid-Ohio Raceway looked too fun for words. Here are some pictures of the Spec E30 cars like I am building...






Tuesday 9-18-07

What a difference cool weather makes to the psyche. I ran 5.6 miles this morning for my 5-6 mile quality run. Time was 52:16. I felt good except for the nagging hernia. I have decided to go see the doctor and find out what needs to be done. If I thought it would not rupture and cause serious problems, I would keep training for the December marathon. The pain is not unbearable but it is the kind of pain that seems like it could get worse in a hurry.

On a positive note, however, I feel like I am getting in shape, finally. If the hernia doesn't stop me, I should be in good shape by December.

Monday, September 17, 2007

Monday 9-17-07

Today starts week five of my marathon training. The schedule calls for 45 minutes of cross training. I swam at the Y during lunch for 46 minutes and covered about 1-1/8 miles. It was a good swim, probably one of the best I've had in a while. I tried swimming hard for one lap and then easy for the next and alternated this for most of the distance. I think this is going to improve my cardiovascular capacity tremendously. My hernia is still very sore. It doesn't hurt when I swim but when I got out of the pool, WHOA! I think I better start using the ladder or I am going to make it worse.

Sunday, September 16, 2007

Saturday 9-15-07

Saturdays are the days for my long training and this week we were in Tuscaloosa for the Alabama football game. So, the run was planned for the streets of Tuscaloosa. I mapped out an eight mile course and set on my way mid-morning. It was quite an experience. Yeah, I know eight miles is not much for most runners training for a marathon but it was for me. The course took me down a couple of streets that were not good running streets; no sidewalks or good places on the shoulder to run. And the cars were less than accommodating! I almost was hit by a fellow turning right onto a four lane street because he failed to see me coming from his right. This was probably the closest I have come to getting hit by a car. The weather was great. Warm but dry with a nice breeze. I wore a new Camelbak hydration belt and it worked great. The fluids definitely made it a better run. my side still hurts in the area I suspect is a hernia. It remains to be seen if this is going to be a show-stopping injury. I pray it will not.

Thursday, September 13, 2007

Thursday 9-13-07

Out for my 4-5 mile tempo run this morning. Weather is still hanging on. We are supposed to be getting a lot of rain this weekend as there is a hurricane hitting the Texas coast then moving this way. I ran my regular 5 miler but at a quicker pace; actually a little slower than Tuesday of this week. I am feeling stronger, though, and I feel like my cardio system is gaining endurance.

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Wednesday 9-12-07

Up at 4:00 this AM but very sleepy. I did manage to get out and do my training run of 4 easy miles. I felt OK but my side (hernia) is hurting increasingly. I hope this pain doesn't get worse. the first one mile of the run, I almost have to limp to keep from pulling the muscles in that area.

The weather was warm and muggy. I wonder when we are going to get a break from this?

My son has been training for and competing in triathlons this summer and his enthusiasm has infected me, as well. I am excited about this marathon I going to do. I just hope I can avoid any injuries.

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Tuesday 9-11-07

My training schedule today calls for a quality run of 4-5 miles. I ran my regular 5 mile loop in a record 43:35, faster time yet. I was able to do some fartlek training without stopping to walk. I feel my capacity to regain my wind increasing. The big negative, however, is these nagging little pains I've got, including a hernia that continues to flair up.

Monday 9-10-07

Today is my beautiful wife's birthday. She is now the same age as me!

My marathon training continues after an off day Sunday. My schedule calls for 45 minutes of cross training. I went to the Y at lunch and swam one mile! The first time in several months I have swum this far. Time was 46 minutes. I can tell the running I have been doing has kept my wind up and allowed me to stay in fair shape. I know I have a long way to go but I am making progress.

Weather is cooling some what but still not cool enough.

Tuesday, September 4, 2007

Tuesday 9-4-07

I am working an odd shift this week so I am getting up a little later in the morning. But, the marathon schedule must go on. Today I ran what is called a "quality" run of 4-5 miles. This involves intervals of faster running that get my out of a comfort zone into one of more painful running. This is designed to increase the cardiovascular capacity and eventually get me in shape to endure 26.2 miles. The run went a little better than expected. I had to walk at the end of the faster intervals and going up one big hill but my time was still almost two minutes faster than my normal run.

Monday, September 3, 2007

Monday September 3, 2007

Today is Labor Day, so no work. My training plan today calls for 30 minutes of cross training; no running. I went with Kellye this morning and walked a brisk two miles. I will call this my cross training for the day. I spent the rest of the day working on the kitchen cabinets, so I was actually fairly tired by the end of the day.

Sunday, September 2, 2007

Saturday 9-1-07

We were in Tuscaloosa for the first Alabama football game AND to see out daughter. But, the marathon training must go on. Steven and I ran through the streets of Tuscaloosa. It was a good run, a little slower than I thought but it was extremely humid and that takes so much out of me. The planned run was an easy 5-6 miler and we ended up running 5.8 miles.

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Wednesday 8-29-07

We got a good rain the night before so things cooled off a little. Temp was still in the mid 70's and high humidity. I ran 3 "easy" miles in 28:18. Legs tired as usual.

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Tuesday 8-28-07

This day is scheduled for an easy 3-4 mile run. I ran 3-1/2 miles including the long hill up 17th St. beside Columbus High. I actually made it up the hill as well as I have in long time. Weather is a little bit milder. Temp around 72 and lower humidity. For the most part I felt good today. The new shoes feel great. I got a pair of Nike Air Pegasus. The first time I have worn Nike shoes in many years. My family really ragged me about it because of Nike's tarnished image but the shoes have a good reputation.

Monday, August 27, 2007

Monday 8-27-07

My marathon training schedule calls for cross training exercise on Mondays instead of running. I went to the Y at lunch and swam for 30 minutes. The pool was fairly crowded so I had to share a lane. It just so happened to be with my son, so I did not mind that at all.

Sunday 8-26-07

My run today started pretty early. We had the Country's Midnight Express 5K run at, yes 12:00 midnight. This is a big local event with close to 2000 runners participating. Of course, many of the runners are first timers and walkers, but it is more my speed. I ran a less than respectable 26:30. It is the first race I have run in several years, though, I guess T can't complain. This race doubled as my Sunday training run, which was intended to be an easy 2-3 mile run.

Saturday, August 25, 2007

Saturday 8-25-07

Ran 5 miles at 7:00 this AM. Cooler and a little less humid. I actually had some sweat evaporating off of me creating some cooling effect. First time in a while. Also walked two miles with Kellye. I am supposed to run in the Country's Midnight Run tonight. I hope I can get enough rest to recover enough to have a respectable race. I will be trying for 24 minutes, 8 minute per mile average.

Friday 8-24-07

No running this AM. The new marathon training schedule calls for rest on Fridays; so I am more than obliged.

Well, I decided to get a swim after work. Swam 1/2 mile at the YMCA. I am trying to get back into the swimming ritual. With this marathon training schedule, I will have less time but I think it is going to help me get in shape faster. We'll see.

Thursday, August 23, 2007

Thursday 8-23-07

Man, has it gotten tough to keep my web logs up to date! It has been a while since I posted. Thankfully, my exercise regimen has not been so lax. I have managed to at least keep a minimum training level, running at least three times a week. I have decided to try to run a marathon. After reading in the July Runners' World mag about simple training programs I have decided, injuries not withstanding, that I can complete one. The target is the Rocket City Marathon in Huntsville, AL on December 8. the 16 week training program actually started Monday of this week so I on my way.

Ran an easy 3-1/2 miles this morning. Temp was 80F with 76% RH.

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Wednesday 7-11-07

How long has it been since I have last posted? I know I have been too lax of late but it is time to get back to my journalistic duties.

I am sure we have all heard a fish story of the "one that got away" but I have one just as good...This morning I was up at 4:00 and actually ahead of schedule as I left the house at 4:50 for a run through the neighborhood. Taking my usual 5 mile route which goes down to Lakebottom park back up to Hilton Avenue, down to Auburn Avenue and home, I had an interesting encounter. Having lived just off of Hilton for a year and a half, I knew there were owls that lived in the woods off Macon Road and Hilton. This morning, as I made my way up Hilton just a block from Macon Road, I was caught by the shadow of a large wingspan passing by and I immediately knew this was no small bird. I looked up to my left on the power line on the left side of the road to see a beautiful screech owl. I admired him for a few seconds then turned my head to continue on my way. Just as I did, the winged shadow went by me again but this time the bird was making more than a casual pass at me. It actually swooped down with his claws outstretched and made an attack at the top of my balding head. I ducked and yelled at it and abruptly changed course to dissuade any further attempts. The owl flew back up to the power line and continued its gaze upon me as I am sure it bemoaned "the one that got away".

Monday, June 11, 2007

Monday 6-11-07

Today is the first day of my new training regimen for the next triathlon/running event I am planning to do. My son insists that I go ahead and set a goal for the next event and start training specifically for it. He is right.

I ran a slight bit under 5 miles today. Started before 5:00 and the temp. was already 75 degrees. I'll be running early for the rest of the summer. I felt pretty good with no pain except tired legs.

Saturday 6-9-07

The big day for the Ft. Benning Triathlon is here. This will be my first tri and hopefully I am prepared enough to have a respectable finish. My son, Steven, and I did the first two events together. He decided not to do the last event which was the swim.

The event was well attended with over 200 participants. This was a "sprint length" reverse with a 3.1 mile run, 12.2 mile bike and 550 m swim. I ran a 25:30 run, 46:00 bike and the swim was ?. Thanks to Ft. Benning personnel for a well planned event. It was a good first event for me and I plan to do more. I was certainly motivated to train harder and be better prepared the next time; especially as I passed the little 10 year-old blonde haired girl on the cruiser bike half way through the bike portion. I rationalized she was only doing the bike and had started several minutes before me. Who knows? I do know I was out-matched by a majority of the other racers. I can definitely get better.

Tuesday, June 5, 2007

Sunday 6-3-07

Rode 24 miles this AM. Started at our house and down to Riverwalk and almost down to Ft. Benning and then back. Noce weather, but I was pretty tired by the end. Average speed around 15 mph.

Tuesday 6-5-07

Perspective...we all need some now and then. That is all I can say about my running attempt this afternoon. With the Ft. Benning triathalon coming up on Saturday, I decided to time myself on the running portion of the tri and see if I could maintain an eight minute mile average speed. Well, it helps to have some perspective of the kind of shape you are really in; not as good as I thought. The first mile clicked by in 8 minutes but it went down from there. I ended up running the 3.1 miles (5 K) in a little over 27 minutes. Feet, legs, hips all felt fine but my stomach was killing me. I only hope this Saturday will go better.

Friday, June 1, 2007

Friday 6-1-07

After a two week hiatus, I was back in the pool this AM. I swam 1/2 mile with the goal of just trying to get back in the groove. I have been sick for most of this week and haven't exercised at all until today. So, just doing anything was an accomplishment. The Ft. Benning triathalon is one week away and i wish I was more prepared but I am going to focus simply on finishing.

Monday, May 28, 2007

Monday 5-28-07

I was off work today for Memorial Day but the Y was closed so no swimming. I ran (or tried to run) 4-1/2 miles this morning. My legs were very tired. Maybe it was the long bike ride on Saturday. My right hip was hurting from the two spills I took on my bike on Saturday. I can't seem to remember to clip out of my pedals when I make a sudden stop. Ouch! Plus it is pretty embarrassing when people see you fall over.

Saturday, May 26, 2007

Saturday 5-26-07

Steven is home for a couple of days to visit and we rode bikes on Saturday. We rode from home to the Riverwalk and south along the river to Ft. Benning and then back home. Almost 33 miles. The Ft. Benning triathalon is only two weeks away and I have got a way's to go before I feel like I am ready.

Monday - Friday 5-21 to 5-25

West to Mississippi and Louisiana for a few days of sales calls. I ran 5 miles on Monday, 4 miles on Tuesday morning, 3 miles on Wednesday morning, nothing on Thursday and Friday.

Thursday 5-17-07

I am posting this over a week after the fact so I am going on a limited memory capacity. I believe I ran 4-1/2 miles though I can't remember anything about the run.

Wednesday, May 16, 2007

Wednesday 5-16-07

Up at 4:00 and ran 5 miles. Time ??, but I was a little more tired than yesterday. Weather was more hot and humid than yesterday, temp around 65.

Tuesday, May 15, 2007

Tuesday 5-15-07

Oh the foolishness of youth! I can remember as a high schooler running cross country thinking that anybody that ran an 8 or 9 minute mile was barely moving. My parents and I would run together and I would smugly think how superior I was. But, now the tables have turned. I ran the most pain-free and brisk 5 miles I have attempted in years but yet my time was a slovenly 9:15 average speed. It takes a lot to get this 43 year old body moving at a 9 minute pace. Will I ever be able to get faster? Or a better question is: Should I?

Monday, May 14, 2007

Monday 5-14-07

Up early this AM and swam one mile at the Y. It was already warm early this morning. It looks like another hot day.

This weekend I am finally getting to drive my track car on a track. I will be at Roebling Road Raceway in Savannah.

I hope the car performs well. I have never had it over about 70 mph so this will be a good test.

Saturday, May 12, 2007

Saturday 5-12-07

Steven is home from school a few days and he and I rode our bikes on the Riverwalk this AM. The weather was great. We had a great ride. 16 miles at a 15 mph rate. The Riverwalk ride is fairly flat with a few rolling hills. This is a great place to ride. I have to ride three days a week to get in the groove for the triathalon in four weeks.

Friday, May 11, 2007

Friday 5-11-07

Up at 4:00 this morning. Swam for 45 minutes at a harder pace than usual. My left shoulder and elbow are sore and aching. It is amazing how much faster you can swim when you keep your hands tightly cupped when pulling through the water. But, it is much more tiring. 4 weeks until the Ft. Benning triathalon.

Thursday, May 10, 2007

Thursday 5-10-07

Ran 4-1/2 miles this AM. My legs hurt. I am wondering if I am going to be in shape for the triathalon in June.

Wednesday, May 9, 2007

Wednesday 5-9-07

Up at this AM at 3:45. Got a good start. To the Y and swam for 45 minutes at a fairly brisk pace.

Tuesday 5-8-07

No exercise in the AM. A good friend of ours we used to live next to in Birmingham died over the weekend and we attended his funeral. He was a fine individual, full of life and always loved our children. I salute you, Floyd Trimble, for 86 years of purposeful life!

Ran 3 miles in the PM. I felt really good, though still rather sore from a weekend of working on my parent's greenhouse.

Monday, May 7, 2007

Monday 5-7-07

Up at 4:00 and swam for 45 minutes at the Y. I didn't lap count so I am not sure of the distance. I hope it was more than a mile.

Countdown...33 days until Ft. Benning triathalon.

Weekend 5-4 to 5-6

This past weekend I had the privilege of getting to construct a greenhouse for my parents who live in northeast Alabama. my son and I went up and put together a kit they had ordered. Aside from a few minor glitches, we got it installed. It looks great.


Thursday, May 3, 2007

Thursday 5-3-07

Up at 4:30 this morning and ran 4 miles. I really felt pretty good. I ran the course with one big hill and I got up it with relative ease. The temp was in the 50's and air was dry. It is so much nicer running in the morning when the temp is low. This afternoon it was in the mid 80's.

Wednesday, May 2, 2007

Tuesday and Wednesday 5-1 and 5-2

Last week I mailed in my entrance fee to the Fort Benning Reverse Triathalon. The date is June 9 so I have a little over a month to get ready. This will be my first tri so I want to be ready. This is considered a sprint length consisting of a 3.1 mile run, 12 mile bike and 550 meter swim. A far cry from the Ironman but more of my speed for sure.

It is crunch time. I ran/walked 4 miles Tuesday and swam one mile Wed. This is the first time I have swum in over a week as I have been nursing a left elbow and shoulder pain that I believe is a result of a weightlifting injury I suffered back in college. Oh well, no time for whining. it is back to the pool and on the bike for much-needed miles to get my gut worked off and back under 200 pounds.

Monday, April 30, 2007

Monday 4-30-07

The day got off to a slow start. No swimming again as I am still nursing a sore left shoulder and elbow.
Ran/walked 4 miles with Kellye this PM after work. Great weather! High of about 85 today, clear and dry.

Friday, April 27, 2007

Friday 4-27-07

After a couple of days off I was back at it the is AM. Ran 5 miles in 47 minutes. I usually swim on Fridays but my left shoulder has been hurting and I wanted to let it rest a week.

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Tuesday 4-24-07

Ran 3 miles this morning in 26:54. Great weather, cool, low humidity. I wish it could always be this way, but in a few more weeks it is going to be summer.

Monday, April 23, 2007

Monday 4-23-07

Another new week has begun after a rather relaxing weekend. So its time to get in gear. I actually did very little in the way of exercising over the weekend except for a 2 mile run/walk with Kellye at Lakebottom Park on Sunday evening.

On Monday I swam at the Y approximately one mile. I tried doing something different deciding to swim by time and forego the lap counting I usually do. I swam for 42 minutes making flip turns at both ends of the pool. Based on my usual pace this should be one mile. My shoulder joints are really sore which demonstrates to me my swimming stroke is working me out to the max.

Friday, April 20, 2007

Friday 4-20-07

I was a little late getting started this morning but made it to the Y about 30 minutes late. I only swam 1/2 mile today. My arms were really sore and i felt a little twing in my lower back muscles that felt like a strain. I decided to cut the swim short lest I injure something.

Wednesday, April 18, 2007

Wednesday 4-18-07

Up at 4:00 this morning and to the Y for a one mile swim. Time was a little over 40 minutes.

Tuesday, April 17, 2007

Tuesday 4-17-07

I made a trip down to Cordele yesterday and stayed last night so this morning I planned on running. I managed to make a 3-1/2 mile run around the area in a casual 35 minutes. No hills because Cordele is basically a big, flat farming community. It was a beautiful morning, with temps in the lower 50s.

Monday, April 16, 2007

Monday 4-16-07

Winter will not seem to go away. It was in the upper 30's this morning after a rather stormy weekend. At the Y in the AM for a one mile swim. They forgot to turn on the heat this weekend and the water temp was 82. It was a little chilly but not unbearable. I had a good swim though I felt like I was swimming pitifully slowly. When I got through I realized my time was under 40 minutes which is about the best time yet!

Friday, April 13, 2007

Friday 4-13-07

It was a good start to this Friday the 13th. I made it to the Y at 5:00 and swam a brisk one mile. No, my time was not much faster than previous times but I felt really good. maybe it was the bacon and eggs I had for breakfast. My wife insists I need to eat breakfast in order to get fueled up for the day.

Thursday, April 12, 2007

Thursday 4-12-07

What a beautiful day we had today! I went to Lakebottom Park after work and ran 4 miles. The temp. was perfect but I was really tired. I did not time my run and it's a good thing cause I know I was slooooow.

Wednesday, April 11, 2007

Wednesday 4-11-07

Weather has been chilly the past few days but is warming up nicely. I swam 1 mile today and really felt strong. My time, though, was no faster than it has been for months. Why is that? I feel like I am swimming as fast as I can but my times are no better. I do think I am getting stronger.

Tuesday, April 10, 2007

Tuesday 4-10-07

Up this morning and didn't feel like running. I waited until this PM and ran after work. I managed to make it through 4.7 miles though it was not easy. I hurt in many places. Cramp in my side, legs sore and beat, BOTH heels hurting. You name it, I felt it. I hope tomorrow is better.

Our daughter had a successful interview with the leaders at the church she attends on campus at school. She is hoping to be a bible study counselor/teacher for incoming freshmen. This is a great leadership opportunity for her as well as spiritual challenge. Great job, MK!

Monday, April 9, 2007

Monday 4-9-07

Swam one mile this AM at the Y. Felt good.

Weather here is still cold, high today of only 58.

Sunday, April 8, 2007

Sunday 4-8-07

Easter Sunday! What a great day! Our family went to church together in the AM. For lunch, Mary Kellye prepared a great meal. She is becoming quite a good cook. Thank you MK for this special lunch. Steven cut the grass. Thanks Steven for the nice lawn.

Kellye and I went to Lakebottom park this evening and exercised. She walked and ran and I ran 4 miles. I generally felt good except for a massive case of heartburn. it was good to get out and burn off some of the holiday calories, though.

Watched the Masters tournament on TV. A young, relative unknown named Zach Johnson won the event. In his acceptance interview he thanked all the people close to him who was a support but then he said most of all he thanked his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the blessing of the victory. What a great testimony!

Friday, April 6, 2007

Good Friday 2007

Today is Good Friday. April 6th. This is a special day and one that we need to use to reflect on the sacrifice God has made for us. Praise Him!

I ran 3.7 miles this morning. I felt great! No pains to mention. Time was 33:30 for a 9 minute mile average.

Weather is cold and cloudy. Temp was about 44 degrees just after my run.

Gave my third speech at Toastmasters this morning and did fairly well.

Thursday, April 5, 2007

Lineup



What a lineup this is! I can't wait to get in the mix.

Wednesday, April 4, 2007

Wednesday 4-4-07

Last day in beautiful Scottsdale. I swam one mile this morning. I felt a little stronger than last time. It is time to work off the resort pounds.

Tuesday, April 3, 2007

Tuesday 4-3-07

Up early this morning for a 5 mile run in beautiful Scottsdale, AZ. I was slow during the run and rather tired afterwards but it was good to get some exercise!

SpecE30 Race at Virginia International Raceway

One short clip of some of the racing action in Virgina last weekend (3/31/07). Looks like fun!

Monday, April 2, 2007

Monday 4-2-07

After a few day layoff, I swam (or at least tried to swim) today. I actually only made 1/2 mile and struggled to do that. It is amazing ow quickly one can lose their wind. Hopefully I can get back into the groove and back a schedule.

Tuesday, March 27, 2007

Tuesday 3-27-07

Ran 3-1/2 miles in 31 minutes. This was a fairly hilly course in Greenville, SC. When I got back to the hotel parking lot, a sheriff stopped me and asked if I had been running through a particular nearby neighborhood. When I answered that I had, he said that was probably not the wisest thing to do. Evidently this was a pretty rough area and I was blissfully running along oblivious to where I was.

Monday, March 26, 2007

Monday 3-26-07

Beautiful morning in the mountains. I am visiting a customer today and swam this morning at the Asheville YMCA. They have TWO pools here. I swam one mile at about my regular pace maybe a tad faster.

Sunday, March 25, 2007

Sunday 3-25-07

I think we may have missed spring altogether! Today's high in Columbus was 91. We may have set a record. I ran 4-1/2 miles this morning. It was a nice run though I still can't make the whole way without stopping. My feet felt no pain, however, and that is a good sign.

Friday, March 23, 2007

Another Race

This one's from a NASA event at Virginia International Raceway.

Friday 3-23-07

Swam one mile at the Y this AM in 42 minutes. I just can't seem to get much faster.

Thursday 3-22-07

I was slow getting up this AM. No exercise, had a hard enough time getting ready for work.

Ran 4.7 miles after work in 42:10. Temp was over 80 and man, was it a hot run! I ran around Lakebottom park and had to dodge traffic all the way around. This is not the best time of the day for me to run.

Wednesday, March 21, 2007

Wednesday 3-21-07

Swam one mile this AM. I tried to break 40 minutes but it was close; I am going to say I did.

NASA SpecE30 Racing at Road Atlanta

Here's an in-car video of a recent NASA race at Road Atlanta. Not me driving, unfortunately...

Tuesday, March 20, 2007

Tuesday 3-20-07

I ran 3 miles this AM on the flatter course. I felt pretty good, though, still a little sore. I felt like I was running at a slightly faster pace despite not actually knowing what the time was.

Weather today is mild, high around 75.

Monday, March 19, 2007

Monday 3-19-07

Good start to the week. At the Y at 5:00, swam one mile in 43:00. Arms and legs tired. weight is still around 205. I may have to back on the dreaded diet to get below 200.

Sunday, March 18, 2007

Sunday 3-18-07

This day started out with a 4-1/2 mile run in 42:00. I hurt. I think the 5 mile run on Saturday took a lot out of me.

We went to church at Morningside Baptist today. Our pastor has made the decision to leave the church and move to Bozeman, MT to begin planting and growing churches in that location. His faith in following God is an inspiration to me and helps to solidify my desire to start a mission. More on that later, but pray with me that God will keep revealing to me what He would have me do.

Our daughter is headed back to school after a good spring break week. Our son is just starting his spring break but he is spending it at the beach.

Saturday, March 17, 2007

Saturday 3-17-07

Happy St. Patty's Day!

What a beautiful day today. Clear skies, air was cool, though, probably a high of only 60.

I ran 5.2 miles this morning in about 45 minutes. I felt pretty good. My right heel was still a little sore but not terrible pain. I think it is getting better the better in shape I get.

I worked on my track car, starting to build the roll cage. MANY THANKS to Jim Bowman, a friend of mine at work who is actually building the cage. I am helping him. Jim is a talented individual who has built cars for many years.

Thursday, March 15, 2007

Thursday 3-15-07

The weather in Columbus, OH this morning is cold and raining. It's time to get out of here. I went to the local YMCA (nice facility) and swam. I didn't feel well and ended up swimming only 1/2 mile. The water was HOT and cloudy, too much chlorine. All excuses but I really didn't feel well. I guess a day off every once in a while won't hurt.

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Track Car Getting Closer

Well, the car is aboujt ready to get on the track. I have got a little issue with the brakes I have got to resolve but other than that I hope to be ready to drive it. A friend of mine at work is going to help me build a roll cage. Hopefully in the next few weeks we can get that done. I will be driving in Rockingham, NC in April and at Roebling Road in Savannah in May. I can't wait!

Here is a good view with the -is front spoiler installed and new Kosei racing wheels and slicks...

Wednesday 3-14-07

I have been traveling this week seeing customers and am presently in Columbus, OH. I swam approx. one mile this morning at a YMCA outside of Pittsburgh. I actually swam for about 40 minutes, not sure how far I went since I didn't count the laps. The weather up here is mild, high of about 65 today.

When I walked into the YMCA the fellow working the desk had on an Auburn sweatshirt! Can you believe it? All the way up here! He said he had been an Auburn all his life (why? I don't know) Anyway, it made me feel closer to home.

Tuesday, March 13, 2007

Tuesday 3-13-07

Ran 4.6 miles in 42:20 this morning. I felt good, even better than last time. This course had a couple of hills and I managed to make it up without stopping to walk. I think as my legs get stronger I am going to have less issues with my heels hurting. At least I hope so.

Monday, March 12, 2007

Monday 3-12-07

Swam one mile this morning in 40:00. I felt great. It is time to start swimming faster or further. My weight is still at 208. I ate poorly this past weekend; too much bread and sugar.

Sunday, March 11, 2007

Sunday 3-11-07

Ran 5 miles this AM. No walking, did it on 46:00. I felt the best I've felt in a long time. I did get tired, but the good kind of tired.

I took my daughter up to Road Atlanta to see the BMW driving event and try to get her infected with driving as I have been. We visited with my brother and sister-in-law and my niece. It was a nice afternoon. I met a few of the guys who are racing in the N.A.S.A. series that I am going to be racing in.

Friday, March 9, 2007

Friday 3-9-07

At the Y at 5:00...Swam one mile in 40:00; I believe the fastest time yet.

Our daughter is home for her spring break the next week. It is good to have her home.

Thursday, March 8, 2007

Thursday 3-8-07

I ran a tad over 3 miles this morning on what I call my "flat course". Time was 28:00. I felt really good. My right heel still has a tendency to get sore but I have found as I make corrections in my right foot strike the pain goes away. It was a beautful morning, clear and 45 degrees.

Wednesday, March 7, 2007

Wednesday 3-7-07

Up on time this morning and off to the Y. Swam one mile, 42:00. Felt good during the swim but my arms are tired afterwards.

Weather is beautiful; clear and 45 this morning. It is supposed to be high around 70 today.

Tuesday, March 6, 2007

Tuesday 3-6-07

I rolled out of bed this morning once again not wanting to venture out in the cold to exercise. I decided to go to the Riverwalk and run during lunch, which I did. The weather was outstanding! See the route I ran, http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=751040 which ended up being 2-3/4 miles. I don't know how long I ran but i guarantee the average time was around 10 minutes a mile. Man, I'm slow. I don't know if I am really cut out for running anymore. But, my weight is down to 206. I am carrying around 15 less pounds than I had one month ago.

Monday, March 5, 2007

Monday 3-5-07

Woke this morning and could barely open my eyes. My back hurt so I opted to sit on the heating pad and skip the morning swim.

I came home for lunch and got the bright idea I would put on a pot of collard greens to cook while I was at work. Can anybody guess the outcome? Well, I was at the Y swimming after work and on the last lap of my mile swim the lifeguard taps my shoulder and tells me I have an emergency phone call. Obviously scared, I ran to the phone to hear my wife proclaim we had a fire alarm at the house and would I please hurry home. (she was at work). When I pulled up to the house the fire truck was just pulling off and when I entered the house, the smell of burnt collards greeted me. Kudos to the fire department, though, because they managed to come in, take off the burning pot and evacuate a majority of the smoke. No, this idea to get a jump on dinner was not the best yet. I am sure I will pay for this blunder for some time to come.

Weather was beautiful today. Clear, high around 65.

Sunday, March 4, 2007

Sunday 3-4-07

The weather was clear and chilly (40) this morning. The wind really made it cold, though. Ran/walked 4-1/2 miles in 45:00. Pretty slow with the walking. My legs still can't take the hills so I have to stop and walk part of the way.

Made more progress on the track car. I still have issues with the brakes but I almost ready to drive it on the track. The engine runs well, but I need to iron out a few problems before I will feel comfortable with it.

Friday, March 2, 2007

Friday 3-2-07

Swam one mile this morning at the "Y" in 42:00. Water was perfect, I felt strong. It is amazing how good it feels when you get in a groove and the swimming feels effortless.

Toastmasters meeting before work.

Thursday, March 1, 2007

More Pictures from the Capstone 2-27-07



















More pictures taken at Tuscaloosa on 2-27-07. In these pictures are our son Steven, daughter Mary Kellye, Kellye, Kellye's best friend Kim and Andy.

Thursday 3-1-07

March is here! Nice spring-like weather this morning; temp around 60. I ran 3 miles this morning in 28:50 for a 9:40 pace. legs felt good, but my stomach hurt. I wish for once I could run without something on my body hurting!

Wednesday, February 28, 2007

Tuesday 2-27-07

No exercise today. Slept late. Went over to Tuscaloosa to see our daughter get inducted into Phi Eta Sigma national freshman honorary society. We are so proud of the hard work she is putting in.

This is our two children over at the University of Alabama. Our son is in school at Troy University but he came over with us to support the accomplishments of his sister.

Monday, February 26, 2007

Monday 2-26-07

Great start to the day! Swam 1 mile in about 40-42 minutes. I felt the best I have swimming since I was 10 years old competing in AAU events. Maybe this old man can get in shape.

Weather was absolutely gorgeous. Clear, around 70 degrees.

Sunday, February 25, 2007

Sunday 2-25-07

The rains came this morning but I managed to get out and do 4.5 miles in 42:00, 9:20 pace. This course around Lakebottom has a monster hill going back up 17th St. For all you Columbus natives, you know this hill beside Columbus HS. It is over 1/2 mile long and deceptive. As you look up the hill you see what looks like the top but when you get there (where Wildwood Ave crosses) you still have more uphill to go! A cruel reality for someone struggling like me. Someday I will get to where this hill won't kill me. Not now, however.
I have a little pain in my right heel/achilles. I attribute this to the severe out turning of this foot. When it lands on the ground it is pointing out at an approximate 15 degree angle. I can exaggerate my step to turn my foot back in but it feels quite unnatural. For all you blogging podiatrists out there, what is this condition called and how do I address this? A good page for information on running ailments... http://www.drpribut.com/sports/sportframe.html

Went to church at our home church, Morningside Baptist.

Friday, February 23, 2007

Friday 2-23-07

Swam one mile this morning in 44 minutes. I felt great, probably the best yet.

Back in town from my trip. I think it was a successful week. Had some good response from customers, but it is good to be back home.

Thursday, February 22, 2007

Thursday 2-22-07

Up this morning for a run at the hotel before my trip home. I ran 3.65 miles in 35:25 or a 9 min 45 sec. average. Yes, rather slow, and I hurt to beat. My legs were sore and my stomach ached. I guess the swim the day before took some out of me but geez, when am I going to get in shape?

Flight leaves at 11:20.

Wednesday, February 21, 2007

Wednesday 2-21-07

Up at 4:00 this morning. I had to meet a customer early this morning so I had to get an early start. We met at the YMCA in the northwestern part of Houston and I swam.
What a great place! the pool had eight lanes and was well lighted and though the water was not heated, it was mild enough to not be uncomfortable. I swam one mile in probably the fastest time yet. But another first for me was I did the whole thing without stopping. At the pool in Columbus, one end is very shallow so I usually only do a flip turn on the deep end and stop very briefly on the shallow end. Well, this pool was nine feet deep the full length so I did flip turns at both ends and did not stop or break my breathing routine for the entire one mile. I felt great.

I weighed in at 208. First time under 210 in several years.

Had good sales calls during the day. I am ready to head home on Thursday.

Tuesday, February 20, 2007

Tuesday 2-20-07

Up at 5:45 this morning. Worked out in the hotel fitness room. 40 minutes on the elliptical machine which corresponded to 3-4 miles.

I saw customers in Houston, drove to Lufkin and met a potential customer and back to Houston.

Monday 2-19-07

I am traveling out of town today. Left early in the morning and arrived in Houston for a sales trip. No exercise today.

Still sticking to the diet; only 4 more days to go.

Sunday, February 18, 2007

Sunday 2-18-07

It was a good day. Having rested on Saturday, my plans were to run today, but, I decided to ride my bike instead. It was still a little cool and breezy, temp around 52. With the wind, it was chilly. I bundled up and took off. 10.7 miles in 44:00. It is a good course, moderately hilly ... see here

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=700329


Attended church at Morningside Baptist and heard a great sermon. Kellye worked today so I went by myself. I feel led to pursue a ministry opportunity that is going to require a great deal of faith. Please pray that I will know God's will in this matter.

Friday, February 16, 2007

Friday 2-16-07

Up at 4:00, 3:50 actually. I had a speech to give this morning so I was on the nervous side. Had my regular New Mayo Clinic Diet breakfast and off the the YMCA. Swam 1 mile. Felt really strong, did it 42 minutes.

My second Toastmaster speech is history! I think I did very well; at least that is what my fellow toastmasters and my wife had to say. I am starting to like doing this kind of thing. I never thought I would hear myself say that.

Thursday, February 15, 2007

Thursday 2-15-07

It was cold this morning. At least by Columbus standards. I think it was somewhere around 25. Up at 5:00, bundled up and out the door. Ran/walked 4.5 miles . Part of the course was fairly hilly and I had to walk for part of the way. Time was still 43:45 or approx. 9-1/2 minutes per mile average.
My cardio system is still, pardon the pun, "sucking wind".

Wednesday, February 14, 2007

Wednesday 2-14-07

Happy Valentines day.
Up at 4:00, by the time I get woke up, eat breakfast and get dressed its out the door to get to the pool before all the lanes fill up. Swam 1 mile in a little under 45 minutes. I felt good but my arms feel like noodles afterwards. This kind of swimming has got to get me in shape. I have been challenged to swim faster by a couple of very fast swimmers that share the pool in the mornings. Thanks to them for setting the bar up high!
My weight is down to 213. Another week and half on this diet and I hope to be under 210 or less.

Temp outside is 40 with about 15 mph wind. It is supposed to get colder as the day goes by.

Tuesday, February 13, 2007

Making Progress 2-13-07

The car is coming along. Most of the suspension required for NASA SpecE30 racing is in. Looks pretty good. It has lowered the car about 2-1/2"










I know it doesn't look like a race car now but just wait. The series I am going to race in pits cars just like this with identical engines, suspension, tires, weight, etc. Makes it funner to compete.

Tuesday 2-13-07

Up at 4:30 AM. Ran 3.1 miles. I did not feel well, stomach hurt, legs were tired. I am glad to get anything in this morning.
Weather was mild. 45 degrees, cloudy. Looking for thunderstorms later today.

My brother sent me a auto racing suit that he picked up on ebay. It is awesome! I can't wait to wear it. Hopefully sometime later this year.

Monday, February 12, 2007

Monday, 2-12-07

4:00 AM came way too early. Do I have to get up now?
Swam 1/2 mile. I felt good; a little tired, though. I can tell I'm gaining stamina but it is just coming slowly. Weighed myself and still holding at 215. I started back on the diet last night so it's back to the regimen.

Sunday, February 11, 2007

Sunday 2-11-07

Oh, to be young again! My 20 year old son, Steven, put me through my paces this morning on a 3-1/2 mile run. I think he was barely breathing heavy and I was out of breath. He is running track at Troy University and in much better shape than I. It was great to spend that time with him, though, and he gave me some good pointers on my running posture, stride, etc.

Weather was beautiful. Clear, cold, about 30 degrees.

Our children are back at school. It was a good visit.

My race car is all back together. I took it for a short drive around the block. It runs fine, though, I think I have some issues with the brakes I need to address.

Saturday, February 10, 2007

Saturday 2-10-07

No exercise today. I slept later than usual, of course that is not hard to do since I am usually up at 4:00 AM. Our children are home from school so we went and had breakfast together.

Had to do some routine maintenance on my daughter's car while she is home from school. It was a successful venture and despite a few difficulties, had the job done by 2:00 PM.

Also spent some time working on my race car, as well. It is almost ready for driving even though it is going to be some time later this year before I can actually race it. Besides, I have to get a license before I can race.

Had dinner out with all of the family. Chinese food at Chef Lee's.

Friday, February 9, 2007

Friday 2-0-07

Up at 4:00 and to my routine. I have been on a crazy New Mayo Clinic diet and that involves a regimen of meals every day that includes the same thing every morning; two eggs, two bacon strips, half grapefruit. This is the second week of the diet and tomorrow I get two days of eating anything! Bring on the bread!

Temp. 45 deg., no wind. Nice winter weather.

Swam one mile. Approx. 50 minutes. felt good.

My kids are coming home this weekend from school. We should have a good time. My wife will be in heaven.

Thursday, February 8, 2007

Thursday 2-8-07

Just created my blog site. A buddy at work has gotten me hooked but this is my first experience doing this kind of thing. As I mentioned in my blog description, this site is dedicated to some of my life passions and as I dive into these I want to share my experiences.