3 miles. Started running last night with my minister and a girl from church.
Surprisingly, my minister and I were on the same pace. We had to wait for her at times. She had cramps in the last mile so we had to walk/run the rest of the way.
I'm thinking, for a first marathon, with 4 months of training, it would be too much for her. I wanna advise her to prepare for a half-marathon for now, but how do you do that with a woman?
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Friday, November 12, 2010
A new mountain to climb
A couple of days ago, my minister asked if we can train together for a marathon. And so I suggested L.A. in March. And so the training is on.
Just registered for the race today and so did he. And so thinking about all the commitment that's involved.
Probably will go by Hal Higdon's Novice 2 training sched.
Just registered for the race today and so did he. And so thinking about all the commitment that's involved.
Probably will go by Hal Higdon's Novice 2 training sched.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
And we're off!
The whistle blew for our group and we were off!!!
SWIM:
I decided to stay in the back since I didn't wanna be crowded and kicked as I read in triathlon blogs. I told myself, I wasn't gonna push it and treat this as a regular work-out.
Started swimming at a very slow pace. I notice, I wasn't swimming straight. Turning the first buoy (100 yards out) was not that hard but to the next one was a journey! Since I couldn't swim straight, I was getting off course and the lifeguards on surfboards had to tell me to get back on course more than once. At first I saw white swimming caps around me, which was my group. But soon enough, I was seeing blue caps, which means the next group caught up to me already! Without losing composure, I continued swimming. Soon enough, I was seeing white caps again. But after a while I realized, it was the group after the next that caught up to me already! :-(
Still zig-zagging through the course, I did manage to finish, wanting to hug every buoy I pass. Took me 53 mins to finish the swim part.
T1:
There were some bikes left when I got there. A bit discouraging but who cares.
Taking off my wetsuit and putting on my bike gear took me the longest time (which honestly, I didn't care much; I needed the rest). Drank some lemonade and got on my way.
BIKE:
Started really slow as I was advised: that I shouldn't push it and that I will pick up speed without even noticing it as I warm up. That morning was a bit cold and breezy, as I was still a bit dripping from the swim.
I dreaded mile 7 as there was where I had to catch my breath last week. So I really paced myself. After passing the dreaded point, I gained some confidence that I can finish the rest of the course.
I remember some guys and tons of women of all age, shapes and sizes just passing me. :-( First old guys, then fat guys with old bikes, then women in great shape, women in not so great shape, then old women, grandmas even. My pride was putting more weight on the bike than the oversized water-bottle we were given for the race! And so I decided at that point on, I cannot do this, but I'm still gonna finish it.
The next challenge was the curved uphill canyon on mile 15. I went up that hill with about 5 women. I took it slow and there was a point where I had to pass one of them...on the right, which was a no-no! But I could not slow down nor shift to the left; it was too late, so I just asked permission to do so, and she was so pissed! I just apologized and went on my way. (she did pass me on the downhill, by the way. :-()
I surprised myself going through that hill without stopping which gained me more confidence. Now it was the way back to camp. If you're gonna do this race remember one name Toro Canyon Road! Imagine doing that mile 7 hill in reverse with lesser energy. I passed 2 guys (woohoo!) on this hill climb. The organizers had cheerers near the top because they know this is make or break (some had to walk their bikes, I was determined to ride it: and I did! :-)
The downhill was fun, but I think I pushed too much trying to pass people so near the end of the bike ride, a 100-ft short hill killed me; I felt lactic acid saturating my quads! It hurt. So approaching the transition area, I was telling myself, "You must be kidding! I still have to run 10 miles?"
Then my mantra kicked in: "You cannot do this but you will finish it." I was 10 miles away from accomplishing one of my dreams. So off to T2.
T2:
T2 was quick. Take off the helmet and gloves and switch to the running shoes. A quick drink and off I go. (Just a note: I really don't understand the big deal about making the transitions quick! Man, you'll need all the rest you can get to catch your breath and rest your body!)
RUN:
Pain!!! Lactic acid made my legs feel like wood running. I read in blogs that it should go away after a mile or so. But it didn't!!! It remained during the entire run. Not a lot of people were cheering along the route since we were at the tail end. I was probably going less than 10 miles an hour accepting all the water and Gatorade offered at every mile; first to drink, then later just to pour on my head to cool off since it was almost noon. On the first hill, I met David on his way back already to the finish line cheering me on. I didn't want to stop running, however slow, but at mile 4, the pain was so intense, I was cramping already and so I had to start walking. But I was determined to finish and at that point, I knew it was just a matter of time. I walked-ran at that point every .2 miles or so. The people I was cheering on going towards the halfway point were the very same ones passing and encouraging me the last 5 miles of the run. :-( As much as my legs were hurting, I felt my ego was suffering more! I wanted to shout at one point: "Is there anybody else who hasn't passed me?"
On mile 8, a cute girl encouraged me to keep running and so pride ignored the pain and started jogging with her. After about five minutes of chatting, I had to start slowing down and eventually walk again eating the dust of her tracks.
On mile 10, I figured, I will just save enough energy to run for the cameras (ha-ha!). And so I did.
When that robot camera flashed, extra adrenaline kicked in that boosted me to the finish line.
.98 miles swimming
33.5 miles biking
10 miles running/walking
900 registrants
770 participants
721 finishers
50 did not finish
9 were disqualified
I was the 707th finisher. It wasn't a glorious finish, but with God's help: I finished! That's all that matters (to me at least!) :-)
SWIM:
I decided to stay in the back since I didn't wanna be crowded and kicked as I read in triathlon blogs. I told myself, I wasn't gonna push it and treat this as a regular work-out.
Started swimming at a very slow pace. I notice, I wasn't swimming straight. Turning the first buoy (100 yards out) was not that hard but to the next one was a journey! Since I couldn't swim straight, I was getting off course and the lifeguards on surfboards had to tell me to get back on course more than once. At first I saw white swimming caps around me, which was my group. But soon enough, I was seeing blue caps, which means the next group caught up to me already! Without losing composure, I continued swimming. Soon enough, I was seeing white caps again. But after a while I realized, it was the group after the next that caught up to me already! :-(
Still zig-zagging through the course, I did manage to finish, wanting to hug every buoy I pass. Took me 53 mins to finish the swim part.
T1:
There were some bikes left when I got there. A bit discouraging but who cares.
Taking off my wetsuit and putting on my bike gear took me the longest time (which honestly, I didn't care much; I needed the rest). Drank some lemonade and got on my way.
BIKE:
Started really slow as I was advised: that I shouldn't push it and that I will pick up speed without even noticing it as I warm up. That morning was a bit cold and breezy, as I was still a bit dripping from the swim.
I dreaded mile 7 as there was where I had to catch my breath last week. So I really paced myself. After passing the dreaded point, I gained some confidence that I can finish the rest of the course.
I remember some guys and tons of women of all age, shapes and sizes just passing me. :-( First old guys, then fat guys with old bikes, then women in great shape, women in not so great shape, then old women, grandmas even. My pride was putting more weight on the bike than the oversized water-bottle we were given for the race! And so I decided at that point on, I cannot do this, but I'm still gonna finish it.
The next challenge was the curved uphill canyon on mile 15. I went up that hill with about 5 women. I took it slow and there was a point where I had to pass one of them...on the right, which was a no-no! But I could not slow down nor shift to the left; it was too late, so I just asked permission to do so, and she was so pissed! I just apologized and went on my way. (she did pass me on the downhill, by the way. :-()
I surprised myself going through that hill without stopping which gained me more confidence. Now it was the way back to camp. If you're gonna do this race remember one name Toro Canyon Road! Imagine doing that mile 7 hill in reverse with lesser energy. I passed 2 guys (woohoo!) on this hill climb. The organizers had cheerers near the top because they know this is make or break (some had to walk their bikes, I was determined to ride it: and I did! :-)
The downhill was fun, but I think I pushed too much trying to pass people so near the end of the bike ride, a 100-ft short hill killed me; I felt lactic acid saturating my quads! It hurt. So approaching the transition area, I was telling myself, "You must be kidding! I still have to run 10 miles?"
Then my mantra kicked in: "You cannot do this but you will finish it." I was 10 miles away from accomplishing one of my dreams. So off to T2.
T2:
T2 was quick. Take off the helmet and gloves and switch to the running shoes. A quick drink and off I go. (Just a note: I really don't understand the big deal about making the transitions quick! Man, you'll need all the rest you can get to catch your breath and rest your body!)
RUN:
Pain!!! Lactic acid made my legs feel like wood running. I read in blogs that it should go away after a mile or so. But it didn't!!! It remained during the entire run. Not a lot of people were cheering along the route since we were at the tail end. I was probably going less than 10 miles an hour accepting all the water and Gatorade offered at every mile; first to drink, then later just to pour on my head to cool off since it was almost noon. On the first hill, I met David on his way back already to the finish line cheering me on. I didn't want to stop running, however slow, but at mile 4, the pain was so intense, I was cramping already and so I had to start walking. But I was determined to finish and at that point, I knew it was just a matter of time. I walked-ran at that point every .2 miles or so. The people I was cheering on going towards the halfway point were the very same ones passing and encouraging me the last 5 miles of the run. :-( As much as my legs were hurting, I felt my ego was suffering more! I wanted to shout at one point: "Is there anybody else who hasn't passed me?"
On mile 8, a cute girl encouraged me to keep running and so pride ignored the pain and started jogging with her. After about five minutes of chatting, I had to start slowing down and eventually walk again eating the dust of her tracks.
On mile 10, I figured, I will just save enough energy to run for the cameras (ha-ha!). And so I did.
When that robot camera flashed, extra adrenaline kicked in that boosted me to the finish line.
.98 miles swimming
33.5 miles biking
10 miles running/walking
900 registrants
770 participants
721 finishers
50 did not finish
9 were disqualified
I was the 707th finisher. It wasn't a glorious finish, but with God's help: I finished! That's all that matters (to me at least!) :-)
Race Day!!!
Woke up around 4:00. Still scared.
Waited till like 5:00 to get ready. Packed my bike and gear in my friends car and headed out to the starting line, which was about 15 mi. away, around 5:45. We prayed before leaving the motel (just to be sure, ya know!).
Near the set-up area, my fears were lessened with the many people there. They were very friendly and encouraging. The seasoned athletes assured me and gave me tips. One thing consistent with what they said was: relax and enjoy your first one.
I saw David and came over to wish me good luck. I started laying out my gear, a final trip to the men's room, and I put on my wetsuit. It was getting close to 7:00, the start of the race, so we headed out for the beach. I saw someone popping in a gel shot, so I did the same. And once I drank water, I never realized how thirsty I was that morning (stress probably?). One of the veterans told me to get in the water to get used to it. Dang, it was cold!!! (high 50's to low 60's).
We started lining up according to age groups. There were about 5 groups starting from the elite athletes on the front line to the all-women's group in the back, with alternate white and blue cap for each group (note this as well for my next blog). Was trying to talk to people to get my nervousness out. We were the third group so my friend took some pictures and videos while waiting. And then it was our group's turn. This is it!!!
Waited till like 5:00 to get ready. Packed my bike and gear in my friends car and headed out to the starting line, which was about 15 mi. away, around 5:45. We prayed before leaving the motel (just to be sure, ya know!).
Near the set-up area, my fears were lessened with the many people there. They were very friendly and encouraging. The seasoned athletes assured me and gave me tips. One thing consistent with what they said was: relax and enjoy your first one.
I saw David and came over to wish me good luck. I started laying out my gear, a final trip to the men's room, and I put on my wetsuit. It was getting close to 7:00, the start of the race, so we headed out for the beach. I saw someone popping in a gel shot, so I did the same. And once I drank water, I never realized how thirsty I was that morning (stress probably?). One of the veterans told me to get in the water to get used to it. Dang, it was cold!!! (high 50's to low 60's).
We started lining up according to age groups. There were about 5 groups starting from the elite athletes on the front line to the all-women's group in the back, with alternate white and blue cap for each group (note this as well for my next blog). Was trying to talk to people to get my nervousness out. We were the third group so my friend took some pictures and videos while waiting. And then it was our group's turn. This is it!!!
Week of the race
Since I max'd out the week before, I was debating on doing nothing or tapering that week since I was really tired. Opted to just do nothing! (gulp!) It was a big risk, but I know I'll learn from this mistake in the future.
Took Thursday and Friday off to prepare. I thought of nothing but the race the whole week. Even took time off the meetings because of it. I told myself, I'll have more time to focus on recovery after the race.
THURSDAY:
Decided to go to a local beach to do a mini dry-run. Did like a 100-yard swim (the waves were kicking my butt, so I quit fighting it!). Did like a 5-mile bike ride, and a 2-mi. run. Now I felt more confident doing SOMETHING at least.
Packed my stuff that night and went to bed still thinking...
FRIDAY:
Headed out around 9 AM and went to get my packet. Got there and saw booths set up with tri gears. I was a bit intimidated yet excited being introduced to the culture. Met a quiet guy by the registration stairs waiting for it to open. Come to find out it was his first triathlon as well. His name is David, a chemist from San Diego. We almost had the same amount of training and the same age. And we were both scared!
After getting our packets, we decided to go through the bike route in my car since he said he hasn't ridden it yet. He checked out the map while I drove.
We had butterflies in our stomachs going through the hills. And remember the canyon my friend commented on? (check last blog) HE WAS RIGHT!!! It was the other way...uphill on a curve! I was sweating cold at that point.
Dropping him off in his car, I checked-in to the motel asking myself if I could actually do this.
Instead of worrying, I just prepared my gear lay-out for the transition on the motel floor. Took a short bike ride to stretch and then grabbed a burger meal for dinner.
Lost a lot of sleep just worrying that night. Prayed like I haven't done in a while. Woke up at 2:00 in the morning and just talked to my friend about my worries.
Took Thursday and Friday off to prepare. I thought of nothing but the race the whole week. Even took time off the meetings because of it. I told myself, I'll have more time to focus on recovery after the race.
THURSDAY:
Decided to go to a local beach to do a mini dry-run. Did like a 100-yard swim (the waves were kicking my butt, so I quit fighting it!). Did like a 5-mile bike ride, and a 2-mi. run. Now I felt more confident doing SOMETHING at least.
Packed my stuff that night and went to bed still thinking...
FRIDAY:
Headed out around 9 AM and went to get my packet. Got there and saw booths set up with tri gears. I was a bit intimidated yet excited being introduced to the culture. Met a quiet guy by the registration stairs waiting for it to open. Come to find out it was his first triathlon as well. His name is David, a chemist from San Diego. We almost had the same amount of training and the same age. And we were both scared!
After getting our packets, we decided to go through the bike route in my car since he said he hasn't ridden it yet. He checked out the map while I drove.
We had butterflies in our stomachs going through the hills. And remember the canyon my friend commented on? (check last blog) HE WAS RIGHT!!! It was the other way...uphill on a curve! I was sweating cold at that point.
Dropping him off in his car, I checked-in to the motel asking myself if I could actually do this.
Instead of worrying, I just prepared my gear lay-out for the transition on the motel floor. Took a short bike ride to stretch and then grabbed a burger meal for dinner.
Lost a lot of sleep just worrying that night. Prayed like I haven't done in a while. Woke up at 2:00 in the morning and just talked to my friend about my worries.
2 weeks before the race
It's supposes to be the start of taper in training but since I lost training time because of the accident (and did not training enough to begin with), I decided to max out on each of the disciplines that week.
Swim:
Did a 50 x 50 yds. swim in the pool on Monday
Run:
Did a 13 mi. run on Wednesday.
Bike:
Went to Sta. Barbara (where the race was gonna be at) that Saturday to do the whole bike course. I went with a friend who has some experience in biking.
On mile 6 to 7, was one of the toughest hills of the course. It was a gradual 500-ft climb. Since most of my training was on flat, I really had a hard time getting to the top. Near the top I had to stop and lay flat on the curb to catch my breath. At that point, I was already second-thoughts in doing the race. I WAS ONLY ON MILE 7, there's 27 more miles to go!!!
My friend just encouraged me to go slow and don't push it. And he was right. I just took it slow the rest of the way and finished it.
Mile 16 to 17 was another 500 foot climb but more gradual and so it was more manageable. The downhill ride was curvy and tricky . My friend commented "Thank God this part of the course is as it is. Had it been the other way going up, it would be a lot tougher!" (remember this for it will have bearing on my next blog!)
Had lunch and headed home.
Swim:
Did a 50 x 50 yds. swim in the pool on Monday
Run:
Did a 13 mi. run on Wednesday.
Bike:
Went to Sta. Barbara (where the race was gonna be at) that Saturday to do the whole bike course. I went with a friend who has some experience in biking.
On mile 6 to 7, was one of the toughest hills of the course. It was a gradual 500-ft climb. Since most of my training was on flat, I really had a hard time getting to the top. Near the top I had to stop and lay flat on the curb to catch my breath. At that point, I was already second-thoughts in doing the race. I WAS ONLY ON MILE 7, there's 27 more miles to go!!!
My friend just encouraged me to go slow and don't push it. And he was right. I just took it slow the rest of the way and finished it.
Mile 16 to 17 was another 500 foot climb but more gradual and so it was more manageable. The downhill ride was curvy and tricky . My friend commented "Thank God this part of the course is as it is. Had it been the other way going up, it would be a lot tougher!" (remember this for it will have bearing on my next blog!)
Had lunch and headed home.
3 weeks before the race
Lost some time in training since I got a bike accident the other week. A car almost hit me, I lost control trying to avoid it, ate the pavement scratching my left shoulder, elbow, and knees. The bike was a little scratched up, but OK.
On the Saturday of this week, decided to go to Sta. Barbara with a friend to do a mini dry run of the race. I wanted to do a short distance of all the events in one morning just to see how it would feel.
The swim:
Got there around 8:00 in the morning. The water was in the low 60's. Luckily I found a small group of people doing a swim workout. Some of them were doing the Sprint the weekend of the race.
Put on my wetsuit and did like a 400-yd. swim with my buddy on the shore dragging the bikes to measure the distance on the bike computer/odometer.
The bike:
We were suppose to go with a group doing the actual route, but got lost because we were behind, so just managed to do a 17 mi.-ride around the area.
The run:
Did a 6-mi. run after the biking.
I felt good but hungry!!! Grabbed a burger meal and went home.
On the Saturday of this week, decided to go to Sta. Barbara with a friend to do a mini dry run of the race. I wanted to do a short distance of all the events in one morning just to see how it would feel.
The swim:
Got there around 8:00 in the morning. The water was in the low 60's. Luckily I found a small group of people doing a swim workout. Some of them were doing the Sprint the weekend of the race.
Put on my wetsuit and did like a 400-yd. swim with my buddy on the shore dragging the bikes to measure the distance on the bike computer/odometer.
The bike:
We were suppose to go with a group doing the actual route, but got lost because we were behind, so just managed to do a 17 mi.-ride around the area.
The run:
Did a 6-mi. run after the biking.
I felt good but hungry!!! Grabbed a burger meal and went home.
Friday, July 16, 2010
First time training with a group
At the city pool where I usually do my workouts, one of the lifeguards made small talk about my wetsuit and told me he does triathlons too and that there's a triathlon group that trains there and suggested I join them.
Halfway through my workout, he called me and introduced me to the trainer and assigned me to a lane with the group. He made us do exercises that are unconventional for me and that I'm almost always out of breath! Afterwards, he offered to train me for a fee and gave me his business card. I took the card and told him I'll think about it (but in my mind, I already said "no way, man. I'm cheap!").
I did ask about my apprehensions in joining the longer race and contemplating on downgrading. He asked me where I was at in my training and said if I could work up to 50 mi. on the bike, I'll be ok. So at least I have some goal to reach for a solid decision.
Bought a new bike handlebar tape since the old one wore out and put it on last night. Looking forward to another ocean swim this weekend.
Halfway through my workout, he called me and introduced me to the trainer and assigned me to a lane with the group. He made us do exercises that are unconventional for me and that I'm almost always out of breath! Afterwards, he offered to train me for a fee and gave me his business card. I took the card and told him I'll think about it (but in my mind, I already said "no way, man. I'm cheap!").
I did ask about my apprehensions in joining the longer race and contemplating on downgrading. He asked me where I was at in my training and said if I could work up to 50 mi. on the bike, I'll be ok. So at least I have some goal to reach for a solid decision.
Bought a new bike handlebar tape since the old one wore out and put it on last night. Looking forward to another ocean swim this weekend.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Semi-brick
I should start getting used to muscle transitions from swimming to biking and biking to running (brick) as the training programs suggests. But I've been dragging on it. So I'm doing it gradually: one day gap between each event. So I started last Tuesday; did 37 mi. (a little more than the actual distance in the race). I did a 10.6 mi ran last night and planning to do the swimming leg today after work.
Still trying to figure out how to deal with the chafing I get at the back of my head, from my wetsuit. Found out about rash guard undershirts online but the neckline is not high enough to protect the chafing and...they're expensive.
Still aiming to do the long distance race...so help me God!
Still trying to figure out how to deal with the chafing I get at the back of my head, from my wetsuit. Found out about rash guard undershirts online but the neckline is not high enough to protect the chafing and...they're expensive.
Still aiming to do the long distance race...so help me God!
Monday, July 12, 2010
2nd try at Ocean Swimming
Went to the beach alone last Saturday for another try at open water swimming.
Found 3 people (probably in their late 50's) training for a triathlon as well! At first, I said, yay, I can finally train with others!
So I put my suit on (embarassingly asked somebody on the pier to zip me up!) and went on the water. Amazingly, it doesn't feel as cold as the last time I went (it was around 64 deg this time).
Come to find out they were just training to "catch a wave" and not doing much swimming.
And so I just asked how long a mile was in the water. The trainer pointed to a landmark along the beach and just went for it. I wasn't swimming straight for there were no lane markers to follow like in a pool so I probably swam farther to get to the landmark.
On the way back was a different story...I only got halfway through and I was really tired. Swam towards the shore and just walked towards the starting mark. I was a bit discouraged and was really considering downgrading my race to the shorter one.
But driving back home, I thought of driving parallel to where I swam to determine how long it really was. It was about .6 miles! So it was longer. Gonna try this weekend again and see.
Took my bike to the shop where I bought it to have it checked and tune-up. Planning to go running tonight.
Found 3 people (probably in their late 50's) training for a triathlon as well! At first, I said, yay, I can finally train with others!
So I put my suit on (embarassingly asked somebody on the pier to zip me up!) and went on the water. Amazingly, it doesn't feel as cold as the last time I went (it was around 64 deg this time).
Come to find out they were just training to "catch a wave" and not doing much swimming.
And so I just asked how long a mile was in the water. The trainer pointed to a landmark along the beach and just went for it. I wasn't swimming straight for there were no lane markers to follow like in a pool so I probably swam farther to get to the landmark.
On the way back was a different story...I only got halfway through and I was really tired. Swam towards the shore and just walked towards the starting mark. I was a bit discouraged and was really considering downgrading my race to the shorter one.
But driving back home, I thought of driving parallel to where I swam to determine how long it really was. It was about .6 miles! So it was longer. Gonna try this weekend again and see.
Took my bike to the shop where I bought it to have it checked and tune-up. Planning to go running tonight.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
bike?
I have a resentment. And I already prayed for the person I am resenting...
My sister has a bike. It has been sitting... wherever it's been sitting... for about two years. I think my mom gave it to her. She has never used it. It even has a flat tire or needs a tube or something- she told me this LAST SPRING- that's Spring of 2009... And yesterday morning, I invited her to go to the book sale in my town with me (used books that are 3 for $1) and she said she couldn't afford to go. That she really had no money- not even for a $.33 book... I had been meaning to ask her about the bike, so I took this opportunity and said "Hey, you should sell me your bike." and she said she no- that she was thinking she might use it eventually. I suggested that she loan it to me indefinitely- and I'd get it fixed and when she needed it she could have it back. She, again, said no.
Now that I put that in writing, I feel silly. I need to emphasize that I'm not *that* upset over it. But really, it's silly. It would be cool if she actually started to use the bike, too. I hope she does.
I ran on the treadmill at the gym yesterday and I hope to run on the boardwalk- even if it's short- then jump in the ocean when I'm done. Today, the beach doesn't open 'til 12:30 so unless I get out RIGHT NOW, the morning isn't an option. "Guards" block the entrance to the beach starting at 8 am on Sundays.
My sister has a bike. It has been sitting... wherever it's been sitting... for about two years. I think my mom gave it to her. She has never used it. It even has a flat tire or needs a tube or something- she told me this LAST SPRING- that's Spring of 2009... And yesterday morning, I invited her to go to the book sale in my town with me (used books that are 3 for $1) and she said she couldn't afford to go. That she really had no money- not even for a $.33 book... I had been meaning to ask her about the bike, so I took this opportunity and said "Hey, you should sell me your bike." and she said she no- that she was thinking she might use it eventually. I suggested that she loan it to me indefinitely- and I'd get it fixed and when she needed it she could have it back. She, again, said no.
Now that I put that in writing, I feel silly. I need to emphasize that I'm not *that* upset over it. But really, it's silly. It would be cool if she actually started to use the bike, too. I hope she does.
I ran on the treadmill at the gym yesterday and I hope to run on the boardwalk- even if it's short- then jump in the ocean when I'm done. Today, the beach doesn't open 'til 12:30 so unless I get out RIGHT NOW, the morning isn't an option. "Guards" block the entrance to the beach starting at 8 am on Sundays.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Running with the boy.
I ran a smooth 5 miles on the boardwalk yesterday in right around 48 minutes. I haven't been running much, and it was great to get out in the evening and be pleasantly surprised with the ease in which 5 miles came and went... Bike? I may do that soon. Frank has a bike that I could ride and maybe I'll ask him to take me through the trail sometime soon. Swim? Well, the water is slowly warming up, so perhaps that will come soon.
In the meantime, I have to write, lest I forget:
A beautiful long awaited day arrived for me just last Saturday. My littlest boy ran 3.1 miles alongside me. And while I've run a few times already with Chris, I've been looking forward to the day that Ethan would trudge along with me. I envisioned this when he was three years old and running lap after lap around the front yard minimally affected. Over the years, I've tested him, bribing him to lap the soccer field while his brother plays. I promised $1 per lap which consequently emptied my wallet. I have challenged him to run up and down steep hills without stopping and he has done so without getting winded. We have run ahead of his brothers from the boardwalk to the house (1/4) mile many times and just last year he became fast enough to match my stride. He does not yet know what a gift he has. We do not yet know how he can best use this gift. What a proud 35 minutes I experienced running beside him. We walked a bit, upon his request, although he really did not need to. We talked the entire time. At no point was his breathing strained so that he could not speak to me. At the end of the race, he sprinted to the finish and told me it was a lot easier than he thought. Of course it was, Ethan. And this is only the beginning.
At various points during the run, I helped him imagine other places, other times when we ran. We imagined the beach and the boardwalk. We imagined the Susquehanna river that runs parallel to his great grandmother's house. We imagined the park. As we approached each mile marker (well really only the first two) we sped up to "conquer" them. Each time, Ethan sprinted to the sign and punched it, declaring his victory over the distance.
What a sweet sight to see my baby red faced, sweaty and determined. I savor that race and play it over and over like a movie in my mind. Someday, he might know how much this means to me.
In the meantime, I have to write, lest I forget:
A beautiful long awaited day arrived for me just last Saturday. My littlest boy ran 3.1 miles alongside me. And while I've run a few times already with Chris, I've been looking forward to the day that Ethan would trudge along with me. I envisioned this when he was three years old and running lap after lap around the front yard minimally affected. Over the years, I've tested him, bribing him to lap the soccer field while his brother plays. I promised $1 per lap which consequently emptied my wallet. I have challenged him to run up and down steep hills without stopping and he has done so without getting winded. We have run ahead of his brothers from the boardwalk to the house (1/4) mile many times and just last year he became fast enough to match my stride. He does not yet know what a gift he has. We do not yet know how he can best use this gift. What a proud 35 minutes I experienced running beside him. We walked a bit, upon his request, although he really did not need to. We talked the entire time. At no point was his breathing strained so that he could not speak to me. At the end of the race, he sprinted to the finish and told me it was a lot easier than he thought. Of course it was, Ethan. And this is only the beginning.
At various points during the run, I helped him imagine other places, other times when we ran. We imagined the beach and the boardwalk. We imagined the Susquehanna river that runs parallel to his great grandmother's house. We imagined the park. As we approached each mile marker (well really only the first two) we sped up to "conquer" them. Each time, Ethan sprinted to the sign and punched it, declaring his victory over the distance.
What a sweet sight to see my baby red faced, sweaty and determined. I savor that race and play it over and over like a movie in my mind. Someday, he might know how much this means to me.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Training Stats
This week marks the 8th week of training: halfway through!
Here are the stats:
Accomplished Behind by Left in training
Swimming 17,650 yds 5,850 yds 52,250 yds.
Running 620 mins. (+ 15 mins.) 1470 mins.
Biking 285 mi. 185 mi. 1055 mi.
Are these extravagant goals? I think SO!!! ;-)
Did 20 mi. biking last night. Planning to swim after work today. :-)
Here are the stats:
Accomplished Behind by Left in training
Swimming 17,650 yds 5,850 yds 52,250 yds.
Running 620 mins. (+ 15 mins.) 1470 mins.
Biking 285 mi. 185 mi. 1055 mi.
Are these extravagant goals? I think SO!!! ;-)
Did 20 mi. biking last night. Planning to swim after work today. :-)
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Why do I do this?
Interesting that you posted that question. I was asked by two friends recently why I run. Do you even like it? How could you like it?
One friend, in particular, wants me to walk with her. I always kindly decline, but finally, she got pushy and along with her pushiness, she asked "why do you run, anyway? why can't you walk instead?"
I told her that running is a challenge in some way. Always. Sometimes it's enough of a challenge to get out there to just do it. Sometimes, getting through the run (no matter how long or short) is the challenge. Beating a previous time or distance is a challenge. Humbly accepting the occasional weak/slow/difficult run is a challenge. And it's a great feeling to conquer it and get ready to face the next challenge.
...and honestly, I already know I can walk. I do it all the time.
My oldest son told me that he ran a 6:22 mile at school today. His good friend who he always races against in gym class finished a few seconds faster. I'm proud of him, and so excited that he is challenging himself in this way as well.
One friend, in particular, wants me to walk with her. I always kindly decline, but finally, she got pushy and along with her pushiness, she asked "why do you run, anyway? why can't you walk instead?"
I told her that running is a challenge in some way. Always. Sometimes it's enough of a challenge to get out there to just do it. Sometimes, getting through the run (no matter how long or short) is the challenge. Beating a previous time or distance is a challenge. Humbly accepting the occasional weak/slow/difficult run is a challenge. And it's a great feeling to conquer it and get ready to face the next challenge.
...and honestly, I already know I can walk. I do it all the time.
My oldest son told me that he ran a 6:22 mile at school today. His good friend who he always races against in gym class finished a few seconds faster. I'm proud of him, and so excited that he is challenging himself in this way as well.
Why am I doing this again?
Did 1500 yards swimming after work yesterday on an empty stomach (only had a big breakfast,coffee, & soda the whole day). So I was nauseous after the work out. It's probably my first time to ask myself "Why am I doing this? :-("
It reminds me of that scripture in Corinthians that says "Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever."(1 Cor 9)
With everything that's going on with church and life right now, I ask "Why do I need this?" :-(
Sold my mountain bike and bought aerobars last weekend for my road bike. Prices start at $100 for the low-end ones. The carbon-fiber kind (which I don't really don't need) start at $200. Luckily the bike owner told me a cop customer is selling one for $90: carbon-fiber Ironman designed only used for a month, including installation! What a better deal.
Took the bike for a ride and it feels uncomfortable! Didn't know you have to pay about $150 for bike-fitting with the aerobars! So I'm just doing trial-and-error on the fitting. And it would take new training to get used to it.
Have a doctor's appointment this afternoon and going home from the appointment. Planning to ride and run to catch up with training.
It reminds me of that scripture in Corinthians that says "Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever."(1 Cor 9)
With everything that's going on with church and life right now, I ask "Why do I need this?" :-(
Sold my mountain bike and bought aerobars last weekend for my road bike. Prices start at $100 for the low-end ones. The carbon-fiber kind (which I don't really don't need) start at $200. Luckily the bike owner told me a cop customer is selling one for $90: carbon-fiber Ironman designed only used for a month, including installation! What a better deal.
Took the bike for a ride and it feels uncomfortable! Didn't know you have to pay about $150 for bike-fitting with the aerobars! So I'm just doing trial-and-error on the fitting. And it would take new training to get used to it.
Have a doctor's appointment this afternoon and going home from the appointment. Planning to ride and run to catch up with training.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
summer running
My p.r. in a 5k was during a race when it was 95 degrees out and almost 100% humidity. My favorite races that I did in the past were in the heat of the summer. This is my time.
I ran this morning- a quick four miles on the boardwalk. Actually it wasn't that quick... The bridge went up and I stood waiting for it to let all the boats pass and come down for about 6 minutes. This bridge is at 1.6 miles of an out-and-back run so it's almost silly to stand there and wait to finish .4 miles and turn around, but I didn't have much of an alternative plan. I considered extending the run to five or six miles since I was standing there for so long, but I have a lot of things I'm hoping to accomplish today.
My kids will run a 5k next weekend. I'm excited that they're all determined to do this.
I ran this morning- a quick four miles on the boardwalk. Actually it wasn't that quick... The bridge went up and I stood waiting for it to let all the boats pass and come down for about 6 minutes. This bridge is at 1.6 miles of an out-and-back run so it's almost silly to stand there and wait to finish .4 miles and turn around, but I didn't have much of an alternative plan. I considered extending the run to five or six miles since I was standing there for so long, but I have a lot of things I'm hoping to accomplish today.
My kids will run a 5k next weekend. I'm excited that they're all determined to do this.
Monday, May 31, 2010
First Ocean Swim & Life Situations
Finally did my first ocean swim last Saturday with my brother and nephew! While they fished, I swam like a frozen fish! It was coooold!!!!
The wetsuit worked perfectly fine (and the fit is great, by the way!). But just hands, feet and face....brrrrr!!! I was just standing there getting used to the cold for about 10 mins. or so, about 50 yards from the shore (I could almost hear my brother and nephew saying, "and he's joining a race?").
After going back and forth to the shore, I finally decided to swim. It was hard to tell how much I swam because there are no markers, but I assume only about 300 yards total.
This weekend is one of my bottoms in life. Within 3 days, I lost my friendship with my roommate who I felt close as a brother already, was asked to move out of where I was living, and was asked not to come to the church I'm attending. It sucked!
I went out with my brother last Friday night and was burning to tell him everything but wasn't sure how he'll take it, so I decided to wait. But while keeping things in I tried to drown it with...beer. While we were watching the Laker game at a local bar, I decided to drink to ease the pain. Finished 3 bottles before I called someone in the program to tell how like was sucking at that point.
Thank God, a friend offered a room so I'll have a place to stay for now. I haven't told my family yet. Please pray hard for me. Thanks.
It's hard to train when life throws you a curve; you're mind is distracted. I was feeling a little depressed this morning so I overslept. I read my bible to get the feelings away and eventually fell asleep again. When I woke up, I decided to go for a bike ride. Managed to do 30 miles of biking that morning at least.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Fight on!
Planned to swim in the ocean this weekend but couldn't find anybody to go with (my brother promised he'll go with me this long weekend). So was a bit disappointed and had to settle swimming at the local pool. Did 80 x 25 yds. And same thing, a guy in the next lane wanted to show off and outsprint me. Practiced pacing once again and was able to finish my target laps.
Could not get sober and was really discouraged and did not feel like going to a meeting anymore. But I thought to myself, "then what"? So I rode my bike to Starbucks and then eventually to a meeting. Volunteered to lead the meeting, and felt good about it.
When I got home, I invited my roommate to go running and did 6.5 mi. in 67 mins. We sprinted the last half mile or so. It felt good to push it and fight on! I feel like recovery is one of the biggest fight of my life. And I know I can never do it without people, and most specially...God!
Thanks to all the people who God gave me at this time of my life who have made a difference! :-)
Could not get sober and was really discouraged and did not feel like going to a meeting anymore. But I thought to myself, "then what"? So I rode my bike to Starbucks and then eventually to a meeting. Volunteered to lead the meeting, and felt good about it.
When I got home, I invited my roommate to go running and did 6.5 mi. in 67 mins. We sprinted the last half mile or so. It felt good to push it and fight on! I feel like recovery is one of the biggest fight of my life. And I know I can never do it without people, and most specially...God!
Thanks to all the people who God gave me at this time of my life who have made a difference! :-)
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Pacing and Advice
Decided to swim in the local pool after work. I read in one triathlon website about being a well-rounded athlete. That I should start having the mindset of a triathlete; not a swimmer, not a biker, not a runner. The article went on to mention a few athletes who didn't finish because, although they were very strong at their own events, they did not pace themselves for the other events.
And so I practiced that today. I really paced myself. A couple of girls joined me on my lane and an adjacent lane. And they were sprinting and there was a temptation to keep up with them. But I had to let them pass me because I had to go farther. I was originally planning to only do 70 x 25 yds. But I was challenged by the girls so I pushed it to 100 x 25 yds.! Felt really good! :-)
At the shower room, I saw a guy with an Ironman tag on his bag and asked if he's ever joined one. Come to find out he's done 4, Arizona, Canada, and others. But not Hawaii yet. Since I wasn't confident if I could do the Olympic distance, I asked him if he thinks I can do it. I honestly told him where I was at in training. He said I have ample time to train. He suggests not downgrading to the Sprint distance and just go ahead with the Olympic distance. Asked him about my wetsuit, aerobars, and the specific triathlon route I'm doing (because he's done it too!). He said the running course is challenging, so I need to start focusing on that.
And so I practiced that today. I really paced myself. A couple of girls joined me on my lane and an adjacent lane. And they were sprinting and there was a temptation to keep up with them. But I had to let them pass me because I had to go farther. I was originally planning to only do 70 x 25 yds. But I was challenged by the girls so I pushed it to 100 x 25 yds.! Felt really good! :-)
At the shower room, I saw a guy with an Ironman tag on his bag and asked if he's ever joined one. Come to find out he's done 4, Arizona, Canada, and others. But not Hawaii yet. Since I wasn't confident if I could do the Olympic distance, I asked him if he thinks I can do it. I honestly told him where I was at in training. He said I have ample time to train. He suggests not downgrading to the Sprint distance and just go ahead with the Olympic distance. Asked him about my wetsuit, aerobars, and the specific triathlon route I'm doing (because he's done it too!). He said the running course is challenging, so I need to start focusing on that.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
ten again
This ten mile run was difficult. I was ill prepared and didn't full well know it. The first five went fine. I decided to run at a steady pace, but to truly take in the scenery and enjoy what God provides for me to dwell in as I train. I even took a few photos with my blackberry.
Frank was to do 10 miles to each of my 5 mile loops. So there went my hydration source, as he carries gatorade on his bike. I did not see him again until mile 4 and therefore, did not replenish fluids until then. I need to figure a way around this. I don't like carrying anything in my hands when I run. At the end of mile five I saw a turtle and crouched down to have a closer look. When I stood up, I got so dizzy that I lost my balance and had to sit down right where I was. This was my first sign of being ill prepared, but for some reason, I ignored it. When I started my next five miles, I already felt weak. Listen to your body... right? I considered going to the visitor center and taking a drink of water, but I decided to get this run finished and wait until I saw Frank again. Miles six and seven were manageable. But after that, my muscles started cramping. Frank met me at about mile 8 (about mile marker 3 on this loop) and I told him I was struggling. We only had a little gatorade left of what he carried, so I finished that and he sprinted to the car to get another and meet me back on the trail. He returned near about .25 miles from the finish and I GUZZLED that drink. Big big big mistake. I was nauseous for most of the rest of the evening. We got home just before 5 pm. I didn't feel better til about 9.
Moral of the story: Hydrate! I usually start hydrating the night before a run that is over 6 miles.
I have been slack in weight training. We now have an awesome bench that I need to start using.
Frank was to do 10 miles to each of my 5 mile loops. So there went my hydration source, as he carries gatorade on his bike. I did not see him again until mile 4 and therefore, did not replenish fluids until then. I need to figure a way around this. I don't like carrying anything in my hands when I run. At the end of mile five I saw a turtle and crouched down to have a closer look. When I stood up, I got so dizzy that I lost my balance and had to sit down right where I was. This was my first sign of being ill prepared, but for some reason, I ignored it. When I started my next five miles, I already felt weak. Listen to your body... right? I considered going to the visitor center and taking a drink of water, but I decided to get this run finished and wait until I saw Frank again. Miles six and seven were manageable. But after that, my muscles started cramping. Frank met me at about mile 8 (about mile marker 3 on this loop) and I told him I was struggling. We only had a little gatorade left of what he carried, so I finished that and he sprinted to the car to get another and meet me back on the trail. He returned near about .25 miles from the finish and I GUZZLED that drink. Big big big mistake. I was nauseous for most of the rest of the evening. We got home just before 5 pm. I didn't feel better til about 9.
Moral of the story: Hydrate! I usually start hydrating the night before a run that is over 6 miles.
I have been slack in weight training. We now have an awesome bench that I need to start using.
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