This morning, I decided to get in a ride outside before the winter storm everyone has been talking about would hit. I got out a bit late and the weather started to turn for the colder when I began.

I parked at Leschi and headed to Seward Park hoping to warm up my legs slowly. Then I went around the bottom of the lake with the thought that I might turn around for an out and back, or go around. I ended up doing a the bottom loop of the lake and came across Mercer Island (the short way). I felt fairly strong the whole time but I was freezing at the end -- particularly my toes that went completely numb. Brrrrr!!!

It's crazy that I rode about half the distance I RAN last week.

26.5 Mile Bike Ride @ 01:53:00

Got in a lift and core class this morning.

Upper Weights @ 00:30:00
Core Class @ 00:30:00

Got on the rollers this morning and my butt could only handle 40 minutes :(

8ish Mile Ride @ 00:40:00

Got in a lift and core class today. I also found out that I am not allowed to run this week (or preferably next...) That changes things...

Upper Weights @ 00:30:00
Core Class @ 00:30:00

Went to yoga class this morning and got in a really great stretch. A perfect welcome back to my regular routine :)

Yoga Class @ 01:15:00

12/6/08 North Face Endurance Challenge 50 Miles Race Report

3:00 AM

Of course, I did not sleep well but did manage to get some in before the alarm woke us all up. I immediately scooped some coffee into the press and emptied instant oatmeal packets into a mug before heading to the lobby to fill both with hot water. Dressing for a race is always such an odd moment because I am so dry and fresh at the moment but know that at the end of the day, my body and clothing will be completely wrung out in ways I cannot even imagine.

We drove to the shuttle drop off (thanks to Ruth, who is an AMAZING navigator pretty much anywhere she goes) and I got on one bus while Cheryl and Ruth got on the spectator one. We were dropped off in the pitch dark and filed into the start/finish line area.

After a quick race meeting, we were off at 5:00 AM. All 172 (38 women) of us in the pitch black with our headlamps as the only light. It was a very low key start with everyone jogging easily and chatting. We started to spread out pretty quickly and all I could see was the outline of the mountains, the stars overhead and little lights from the faster runners bobbing ahead to indicate the road ahead.

I did embrace this part of the run but wished after an hour for the sun to rise so I could see beyond the tiniest ring of light from my headlamp. During my first rest stop, I really was not hungry for anything but circled back to grab some food after remembering Cheryl's gentle supportive words "If you don't eat, I will shove it down your throat..." Continuing on, we were treated to some of the most stunning views and got to see and hear the waves crash as we ran along a technical rocky path on a steep sea cliff.

Cheryl and Ruth were waiting for me at the rest stop at mile 18 and I was sad to see that they were freezing after waiting for so long. For a moment, I felt guilty because it took me so long to get there but I knew I was keeping a reasonable pace and the elevation was already more difficult for me than I had imagined. I had 12 miles to go before coming back to that same rest stop at mile 30 when Cheryl would run with me, so I dropped off my long sleeve shirt and gloves as I headed out.

There I hit the most brutal descent and at one point, there was a LADDER. Apparently it is famous but it was not super easy on tired shaky legs. I took it backwards.

After descending into what seemed to be the bowels of the earth, we ascended for a very long time through a beautiful trail with switchbacks where I got to see the roots of trees, and then the tops of those trees and over and over again.

After a seemingly unending out and back (sensing a theme here?), I finally made it to the rest stop where I got to pick up Cheryl at Mile 30, who paced me for the next 14 miles. I also got to see Katie and how already wound up she was :) and knew I would need her energy for the last leg.

We set off descending right away and picked up another runner, Nikki who had gotten lost and fallen a couple of times and decided to stick with us for a while. Side note: My knees and quads are actually beginning to ache as I type this two days later! Cheryl kept us moving and eating and drinking and when it was flat, we got a nice pace going. During the second half of that leg, I started to get slower and slower as the hills continued and my right IT Band started to, what I can only describe as "seize up" creating a lot of pain in my right knee especially during descents. Cheryl kept going telling me stories about her endurance events (she is a very accomplished athlete who still holds unbeaten world records 20 some years later). I figured that if she could tough it out without many of the conveniences we enjoy, then I could suck it up for one day.

She really pulled me through the last part (through tears and all) and I am so grateful for her encouragement and techniques to help me manage the pain while moving forward although I got no energy whatsoever from that stupid bush we passed ;). Four and a half hours later, we finally finished our 14 miles together and made it to the aid station at mile 44.

She happily handed me over to Katie with instructions that I did not pay attention to as I tried to stall as much as I could by sampling anything I could at the aid station table. Katie finally dragged me away, and bounced up the hill like Tigger while I reluctantly followed. Her friend Hans, mentioned after that he knew there would be trouble when they saw Katie running up the hill and me, much further behind not walking at any great speed.

The sun was setting just as we started out and as the light disappeared as our contest of wills began. Me, wanting to walk, preferably stand still and whine. Katie, wanting to finish this 6 miles before the next day. She tried lots of motivational talk and ideas, and I rejected many of them straight out although after a while, I was just too tired to argue and just let my legs try to follow. The pain in my right leg got worse and a couple of times, I would just yelp with pain and could not move another inch. Until, of course I did move that painful inch and then another and then another.

There were a few times when she would say something like "at this marker, we are going to get moving" and I would respond incredulously "but I AM moving" and really was to the best of my ability.

My running pace at that point was equal to a brisk walk for her. Almost 2 hours later, we finally hit the finish line because of her persistence and I am so grateful for my amazing support staff, who surprised me with t-shirts and carried me through the entire race in one way or another. It takes a village to get me through 50 miles and 10,700 feet of elevation.

No, I do not plan to run 100 miles anytime soon but I will do another 50 miles, maybe one with a little less elevation...

I finished within the cut-off time but only by 30 minutes. It was BRUTAL and I will blog more once I get home. But I am proud to be one of the 48 women who signed up (32 finished) to do the 50 miler of the 210 who signed up. I dealt with with some pretty bad pain in my right knee the second half of the race that had me limping (whining and crying) quite a bit but I had some pretty amazing support from my "crew".

50 Mile Run @ 13:30:00

Here is the elevation map of the course. I probably should have looked at it closer before signing up...

We drove into SF this morning to pick up the race packet and Cheryl, who came in on the Bart from the Oakland airport. The swag was pretty sweet -- a North Face technical t-shirt, hand held water bottle and a really nice cap that became my race day favorite item.

Unfortunately, there was not a lot of information on some of the logistics. For example, how to get to the start in the morning but I let Cheryl and Ruth figure that out. I was surprisingly calm that day, unlike other times I have been super escalated before a bit race.

We went out to dinner at the restaurant next store and Ruth's friends, Malia and Sandra (who live in SF) also joined us so it was great to see them and catch up a bit. I did cut out early to get to bed as close to 8:30 as possible to make the 3 AM wake up call a bit less brutal.

I had some serious packing anxiety last night (as in I never started because I was so anxious thinking about it) and decided to leave it until morning. I always have packing anxiety -- there is a theory floating around about how this stems from the packing/unpacking I did in an orphanage a very long time ago. Regardless of where it comes from, it is only aggravated by having to pack for the scariest race I have ever signed up for in my life.

Somehow I did manage to throw enough in a suitcase and make the connecting buses on time to get to the airport. I had a little snafu when I accidentally threw my keys into the garbage dumpster when throwing out Wally's litter :( but made it through. After flight delay after delay, we finally headed out and and I made it to SF, and the Marin Connector (with a big rainbow painted on the side that made me smile) to my hotel.

I went for a lovely little 3 mile run along a path that is right behind the hotel and very much enjoyed the sunshine and new scenery.

3 Mile Taper Run @ 00:30:00

Had a nice dinner at the restaurant next store and then Ruth, the first of my support posse got here around 9 PM. Cheryl comes in tomorrow afternoon and then Katie about halfway through my race.

I have pretty much hit my escalated peak and have a raging headache. Unfortunately, because I am in taper mode, I have NO outlet :( I leave tomorrow morning for SF and I sure hope they don't kick me off the plane for excessive crankiness.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

I was bummed when I got to the gym and found out that the yoga instructor was sick and there would be no class. Put on my running shoes though and did my 3 mile taper run. I barely got even sweaty! I was disciplined and stretched for 30 minutes after.

3 Mile Run @ 00:30:00
Stretch @ 00:30:00

I am officially going crazy and my taper week only just started :(

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Early this morning, I picked BR up and drove her to the Seattle Marathon start where we met up with Cheryl and the group for some last minute chatter before the runners began.

After seeing everyone start, I headed over to McD's and had my first McMuffin sandwich there in years! I decided to head back home and not wait out the finish to avoid future road rage. Once I got home, there was a message from Ann that the vest I had taken for her at the last minute had her car keys in it :(

It got my butt moving again and I headed back down after changing into running clothes and found her very happy after kicking some SERIOUS butt at the race with a super impressive run/walk pace! I then headed to Gasworks and ran around the lake. Definitely feeling a bit tired and sluggish. Perhaps the McMuffin, perhaps not quite knowing what to do with myself with this taper weekend -- even if I did spend all afternoon yesterday shampooing all my rugs with this extra nervous energy...

6.2 Mile Run @ 00:58:00

Got in a lift at the local 24.

Upper Weights @ 00:30:00

This morning, I did my long taper run along Lake Washington from Leschi to and around Seward and back.

I kicked the speed up a bit and going around Seward Park added a mile so I felt like I got a good workout in.

11 Mile Run @ 01:58:00

Did my Holiday Helper shift at the Greenlake store today with the thought that I might get out on my bike after. The weather did not agree so I dragged out the rollers and did a quick spin on the bike. My legs held up fine. But not my butt. Most definitely not my butt.... :(

10 Mile Roller Ride @ 00:40:00

Had a luxurious night and morning of sleep (slept till 8:30) and met Gisela at the perfectly civilized hour of 11 AM for our not exactly "annual" Thanksgiving day run on Alki. Great conversation and coffee after. Hanging with Wally a bit now until I head over to Katie's to completely stuff my face :)

6.5 Mile Run @ 01:00:00

Started this morning with a lift and core.

Upper Weights @ 00:30:00
Core Class @ 00:30:00

I had a hope that I could work a shorter day today because of tomorrow's holiday but it was just not in the cards. Got home after 6 and after Wally and I caught up a little, I went out to make up yesterday's hill run. Set up a route right around home with some good hills, and one repeat on Roosevelt.

6 Mile Hill Run @ 00:57:00

Yoga class was good, as usual this morning.

Yoga Class @ 01:15:00

Tuesdays are super tough to get in a second workout and today proved to be no exception. I planned to run stairs today during lunch but my schedule got crazy and in the way.

It's pretty scary that I ran the equivalent of a marathon this past weekend and feel very rested and as if I had the weekend off!

Made it in this morning for weights and core.

Upper Weights @ 00:30:00
Core Class @ 00:30:00

Then had a planning dinner with my wonderful and amazing support crew for the race and I tried not to get terribly escalated.

Had a nice hilly run this morning with BR and got to catch up with people at the group potluck.

10 Mile Run @ 01:40:00

I woke up around 7:30 this morning and headed out by after 8:30ish over the pass to get in my 15 mile run on the Iron Horse Trail. I started at Cedar Falls this time and ran a part of the trail I had not run before. It was a great day and I had a fabulous run. The way out was a slight ascent, the first three a bit steeper but I felt smooth, strong and really great. I decided to add a mile to make up for Tuesday to get me to the 44 for the week and negative split my return by 9 minutes!

16 Mile Run @ 02:31:00

I have been sleeping really well this week and took advantage of this again this morning. Made it to core class with the thought that I would lift after work. That was trumped though by a last minute happy hour after work with some people on my team.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Katie picked me up this morning at 5:15 and we drove to do our hills on 70th and 65th. She has a terrible cough but did 3 of them with me and I did the 4th while she went to get the car and meet me at the top.

7 Mile Hill Run @ 01:10:00

Got in a lift before core class this morning.

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00
Core Class @ 00:30:00

No chance to get in a run during my work day so I ran after from home testing my headlamp. I set out to do 8-10 miles and got a bit lost because of the dark during the run but figured it out pretty quickly.

8 Mile Run @ 01:20:00

I took a complete rest day yesterday after my tough weekend. Work has exploded a bit and I left work that afternoon feeling completely wrung out.

Yoga class this morning was good and even though I was a bit tired during some of the strength poses, it really is turning into one of my favorite moments of the week.

Yoga Class @ 01:15:00

I have blocked 2 hours off on my calendar on Tuesdays to get in my run but I just had too much to do so I did a "better than a poke in the eye" workout and ran a short distance with short fartleks in between.

3 Mile Run @ 00:30:00

This morning, I woke up at 4:30 AM -- half an hour earlier than my alarm clock and after drinking some coffee and figuring out a route, I drove to West Seattle and started my loop at 5:55 AM. I ran from Alki up to 35th, over at Barton and then down along Beach Drive to meet the group at my starting point.

After seeing all of them coming my way because I was not fast enough to make the start time, I caught up with Cheryl and got to run with her the entire time. Other than my disappointment at how very long it seemed to take, it was a really good run. She kept me steady on pace and made me eat. Something I was more willing to do after I learned that she was going to shove it down my throat if I did not eat during the race so it might be in my best interest to eat consistently on my own :)

Hell weekend is officially OVER! It's taper from here!

26 Mile Run @ 04:35:00

Went to Marymoor again to run the Lake Sammamish trail for my 20 mile run. I worked on nutrition this time and packed myself a spam sandwich to eat. I managed to choke down one half of it but the spam burps were just a bit too much :(. I also had a craving for a coke so I ran across the street to the 7-11 and emptied my accelorade bottle (I had made it too weak by accident and it tasted terrible) and filled it with coke. Of course it was a bad thinking error because running only carbonated the coke more and I ended up wearing more it than drinking. Oh and coke and spam burps...not at all good.

I definitely took my time with this run and meandered a bit. Day 1 of my hell weekend DONE. Got to hang with Amy after and we went to a restaurant in Bellevue that served huge portions!

20 Mile Run @ 03:50:00

Got in a lift and core this morning.

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00
Core Class @ 00:30:00

Met at Katie's house this morning and we got in our hill workout. I sure was feeling very tired and Katie ended up pretty much pulling me through it.

6 Mile Hill Run @ 01:00:00

Last night I touched my toes!!!
This morning, not so much but I have last night's victory to bask in.

Got in weights before core class.

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00
Core Class @ 00:30:00

Got some tough news at work (I am fine) so there was a bit of a scramble and I ended up getting in only about a 4 mile aerobic run.

4 Mile Aerobic Run @ 00:40:00

Went to Yoga this morning and it was good (in a way that hurt A LOT) to stretch my tight back left hamstring.

Yoga @ 01:15:00

Today's speed run can best be described as an exercise in improvisation. I have been smart enough to block off my calendar for these Tuesday runs so I can be sure to get them in. I headed out during lunch planning to get in an 8 mile tempo run from work to West Seattle and back. As I was running towards West Seattle, there was a very slow moving train in my way between me and the bridge so instead, I just kept heading South on 1st Avenue until I ran out of sidewalk. I then turned around and planned to still do an out and back to a closer point in West Seattle to get in my mileage. No train this time so I headed over and had just run the path under the bridge and was about to get on it when I saw it was blocked because the bridge was opening to accommodate a tall ship going through. Foiled again! No worries, I figured I would then just run towards Pioneer Square to get it all in and I saw CONSTRUCTION on the road ahead. I decided that if that ended up blocking me, the universe just must be insisting that I only get in 5 miles.

Unfortunately, Cheryl's training plans apparently trump signs from the universe because there was a path for bikes that I could go through.

8 Mile Tempo Run @ 01:14:00

Had a crazy back to back meeting day so I was just able to make it to core in the morning. Bagged an evening lift in favor of being a couch potato while drinking cheap pink wine with Wally.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

I woke up this morning around 6:20, 10 minutes ahead of my alarm clock and got some coffee and a bagel in my system before heading to the Japanese Gardens to get in my pre-2 miles before running the remaining 22 with BR.

It was a bit warm for a run but the company was excellent and even though we both were doing some internal whining, we made it through our distance in good time.

24 Mile Run @ 03:51:00

This morning, I headed to Marymoor in the rain to run the trail again for my 18 miler. Fortunately, it stopped raining fairly soon after I started and I even got a bit warm. I ran steadily but never felt amazing or super tired so I guess it was just average.

18 Mile Run @ 03:00:00

Had a team off-site today in Mulkilteo so I slept in until 7:15 (oh, so good) and then got in a lift at the 24 near my home. That was it for the day except for go-kart racing. I was not super fast but managed to descend my time from my first heat to my second :)

Core @ 00:15:00
Upper Weights @ 00:40:00

Katie picked me up at 5:15 AM this morning and even though we planned to run @ Golden Gardens, we nixed the plan last night because it seemed a bit too dangerous in the dark.

So instead, we did hills on 70th and 65th. We have usually done the hill only three times but this morning, we did 70th twice and 65th 1.75 times. I have a very long way to go before I can climb as easily as Katie can but I did feel less tired after my 2 days off running! I could get used to this :)

6 Mile Hill Run @ 01:05:00

Was up a bit late celebrating last night so I barely even remember turning off my alarm clock when it went of for swimming (ha, a girl can dream...).

Jon was very kind to me in core class and put together a workout that kept our backs off a surface after I whined and showed her my mangled back.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Got in a nice aerobic run after my long overdue haircut this evening. Put together a nice 7 mile route and kept the pace easy. Amazing how great I feel after taking 2 days off running!

7 Mile Run @ 01:10:00

I got a running pass today from Cheryl because my schedule is so tight and my back has not yet healed. I did to to Yoga this morning and kept it simple :)

Yoga Class @ 01:15:00

Slept badly last night because my chewed up back kept sticking to my sheets :(

Made it to Core Class and then got in a lift at the 24 hour fitness up the street from my house.

Core Class @ 00:30:00
Upper Weights @ 00:30:00

After a really great massage yesterday (thanks Ruth!), I headed East to get in my 22 mile run on the Lake Samamish trail. I ran out of trail before miles and ended up getting a bit more on the sidewalk before turning around and lucked out by hitting a water fountain that actually worked!

I think I went through almost every weather system on my run from hot sun through dumping rain. I did practice with Accelorade and my spam sandwich. I ended up eating just a couple of bites of it because I was not that hungry. However, I did get a sip of the Accelorade every 10 minutes and that carried me through quite well. The run was great and I felt super strong up to mile 16 and after that, I still felt good and had some left when I was done although I did not want to test it...

22.5 mile Run @ 03:50:00

Today's run (and getting soaking wet in the rain) did a number on my skin again and I have some serious wounds from my running bra to heal. I have decided that I will no longer run with the HR monitor as that strap is what created the worst damage. I really am not using HR as much anymore and am running more by time.

Went to yoga class today even though I was quite tired but it ended up being really good.

Yoga Class @ 01:15:00

Was out late (for me) last night enjoying a delicious dinner Stacy cooked :) When I got home, I was so wiped, I called Katie to let her know that I was going to change around our running plan in the morning. Initially, I thought I would run for an hour and then meet her to run the last 10 miles but instead, we started together and I ran the last on my own.

We met at Gasworks and ended up just running up the trail and back. I got to run most of it on the dirt path that ran parallel. Ended up getting in only 15.5 because there was a bit of miscalculation but I was fine with it :)

15.5 Mile Run @ 02:35:00

Got in a lift and core class this morning.

Upper Weights @ 00:35:00
Core Class @ 00:30:00

Last night, I worked on stretching my hamstrings and came awfully close to touching my toes with straight knees. This morning, when I leaned over to tie my running shoes, I realized I was doing it almost straight-legged as opposed to the way I have had to do it for years by bending my knees. I am so excited about this!!!

Katie picked me up at 5:15 AM and we drove to 35th to run 70th and 65th. I was pretty sleepy and a bit whiny but fortunately, Katie didn't care and still harassed/coached me on form.

6 Mile Hill Run @ 01:00:00

That's it for today because I have happy hour plans after work with my very favorite peeps from Starbucks and Seattle Fitness :)

Had a good core class this morning and spent the rest of the day running around from meeting to meeting.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Got in a nice easy aerobic run after I got home from work. I did my North loop and worked on keeping it loose and easy running downhill.

5.5 Mile Run @ 00:55:00

Didn't get to bed until 11 last night so Wally was not happy with the 4:45 AM wake up alarm. I did catch the bus to go to Yoga and even though there were some definite moments when my hamstring hurt a lot, some of it felt really good to stretch out. I was tired a couple of times and had to go to child's pose rather than downward dog (or, in my case downward frog)

Yoga Class @ 01:15:00

Got in my speed run from headquarters to West Seattle and back. Fortunately, the 1/4 mile markers had fresh paint so I was able to keep track of my pace and maintained a sub 8 minute mile for the 4 miles of the 6 I was able to track.

8 Mile Speed Run @ 01:08:30

Went to core class this morning and will plan to lift near home this evening.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Got in a lift at 24 near my house. It was pretty crowded at 6ish PM but I still managed to get everything in.

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00

I sure am loving this recovery weekend. I met the gang at Magnuson this morning at 8:00 for a lovely 7 mile run. Even though the route was hilly and start was cold and windy, I had a great run! Got to catch up with Jeff over coffee afterwards and got my grocery shopping done for the week.

I forgot to re-set my watch so I am not sure of my exact time. I did hold a 9:15 pace going up a hill so I figure I was about 9:30 average.

7 Mile Run @ 01:06:30

Went to yoga class but I must admit I was not very focused. I was too hungry and kept watching the clock.

Yoga Class @ 01:15:00

Thank goodness it is the weekend! I started my new job on Monday and have come home every day with a very full brain. I am super busy now at work but really love this newest challenge!

It was a beautiful day to get in a run/hike on this "recovery" weekend and that means I only had to run 10 miles today. We drove to Mt Si and after catching up with my sister on the phone (who needs lots of support right now, feel free to throw extra good energy into any wind blowing towards Pennsylvania), Jen dropped my off 2 miles from the trail head. I ran/hiked up the mountain and really did not push it too hard. I worked on my form running back and did start to get a bit tired near the end. I am glad I was only planning to do it once today!

10 Mile Hike/Run @ 02:36:00

Catching up with my friend, Amy tonight and we are headed to dinner and a movie she found at the film festival at 7. I think it is Steam but I am not sure yet. All right, better shower so I don't clear the theater :)

After going to bed at 8:30 my third night in a row, I was awake enough to finally make it for swim practice. My first one in October -- and that explains why I was really dragging...

1600 Swim Practice @ 00:45:00

I did leave about 15 minutes early to give myself a bit more time to get organized for the day and make it into core class.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Yesterday, Wally peer pressured me to stay home horizontal with him on the couch drinking cheap wine and eating Apple Jacks while watching Law and Order re-runs so I missed my 4 mile easy run.

I did make up for it today though and perhaps it will be a lesson to me to not let Wally peer pressure me next time because my second run HURT.

I picked Katie up at 5:15 and we drove to the GL track and ran up 50th and then did hill repeats up and down Fremont. It was a good workout, and Katie is always great company.

6 Mile Hill Run @ 01:02:00

I then set out for an easy run during lunch and I was pretty much tired and slow the entire time :(

4 Mile Easy Run @ 00:40:00

Got in a nice lift this morning followed by core class. Will do my easy run after work.

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00
Core Class @ 00:30:00

I took a badly needed day completely off from any form of training yesterday and it sure did help. I was feeling really exhausted and sore on Sunday after the run and barely dragged myself through my chores. I even skipped Yoga because the thought of it just made me so exhausted.

I slept in on Monday morning and Jen was a champ and took me directly to work. It was so odd to be dropped off at the door with just a purse and to walk in wearing my work clothes instead of schlepping from the gym/bus with wet hair loaded down with all sorts of workout stuff. I almost felt normal.

I stayed close to home after work yesterday to finish recharging and was able to get through the laundry before Wally and I finally hit the sack. He was pretty tired because he was yelling at me all evening to let him out into the hall to play with his new best friend -- an artificial Christmas tree my neighbors are storing in their hallway...

Yoga class was good, although challenging today but the instructor assured me that three years ago, she could not touch her toes although she is made out of pretzel dough now...

Yoga Class @ 01:15:00

Managed to get in a run along Lake Washington. Because I was pressed for time, I set my watch for a 5 minute WU and then 6 intervals of 8 minutes hard and three minutes easy jog. Managed to get it all in and a couple of the intervals were on the gravel path so it was kinda like trail running. I sure did not have enough warm up time and my shins let me know.

8 Mile Speed Run @ 01:13:00

I also created a baseline for touching my toes and measured how far my fingertips were from the floor when I bent over. 6 inches. I figure a half an inch each week might get me close to my goal of being able to touch my toes by the end of 2008!

I ran with Cheryl's group this morning and did my best to keep up. There were some parts where I felt really strong and smooth and others when I just wanted to sit down on the sidewalk and not get up again. I did stretch quite a bit after because about 12 miles in, I got some serious pain and cramping in the left side of my butt but I was able to run it out.

14 Mile Run @ 02:20:00

Returned to the Iron Horse Trail for today's 22 mile run. I added the extra by having Jen drop me off at the bottom of the road so my first mile was pretty much uphill. I must confess that last night's double happy hour plus the opening movie of film festival was not exactly the best way to prepare for a long run but at least today was a good simulation for running tired!

22 Mile Run @ 03:45:00

Nothing but core class this morning. I have been giving myself a hard time because I have not gotten in any swimming or biking the last couple of weeks but I did realize that I am still getting some good cross training that works for my long race. I am doing yoga 2x, core 3x and lifting 2x a week in addition to running 5x so it's not all that bad. Throw in moving to a new work location, interviewing for a new job (that starts Monday) and not having Seattle Fitness just down the stairs from me.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Got in a lift this morning and will run hills with Katie tonight.

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00

This seems to be my "better than nothing" themed week. I missed my bus and had to take a later one getting me home later -- pushing the hill run later into the evening. Fortunately, I had planned to run with Katie and she helped make what seemed to be a chore, fun. We tackled some good hills on the other side of Aurora and varied the distance and incline. I still did not get in the full 8 miles but an hour was good enough for me. Next week will be better.

Hill Run @ 01:03:00

Skipped swimming again :( but made it into core class.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Got in a quick run after work and before dinner plans so I did my usual home to and around Greenlake and back. I pushed the pace a bit to make up for yesterday's slacker run.

5.5 Mile Run @ 00:47:40

This morning, I set my alarm for 4:50 so I could be up, drink some coffee and make the 5:23 bus downtown to make it on time for Yoga class. I got to the bus stop at 5:20 and ended up waiting a half an hour for the stupid bus to arrive. I ended up late to class and unsuccessfully tried to practice my relaxation techniques while riding the bus. I did make the last 45 minutes so all was not lost.

Yoga Class @ 00:45:00

I don't have a nice window for getting in my speed run today on my calendar so it may end up being abbreviated. Keeping my fingers crossed for meetings to end early.

The good news is that I now have a new job starting Monday (at my same company) but working with a new team and learning lots of cool new technologies. I am really psyched and know I sure have my work cut out for me!

By the end of the day, I was not feeling well and turned today's speed run into a "better than nothing aerobic run" by running for a bit in the arboretum.

5 Mile Run @ 00:47:00

Got in my weights this morning before core class.

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00
Core Class @ 00:30:00

I had a 12 mile trail run on my schedule today but really did not want to drive again to run, so I just ran a loop from my house, running on the gravel whenever I could. I kept the pace easy and the route had some hills that surprisingly did not seem nearly as bad today as they have been in the past when I ran that route. I actually felt pretty good and am surprised by that although I seem to do nothing lately but run, sleep and eat.

12 Mile Run @ 01:55:00

Yoga class was a good challenge today. Warrior pose was a bit tough on my already tired quads but I left feeling a bit more open :)

Yoga Class @ 01:15:00

Slept really well again last night and quite late (9:30 AM?!?). Today's run was 20 miles and Jen and I drove back to the Iron Horse trail to get in the distance. She on her mountain bike and me on my new trail running shoes :) I ran from the crossroads to the tunnel and back -- 10.6 miles each way.

I felt good and kept the pace super duper easy. Even walked a little bit when I stopped at the bathrooms. I do love that trail especially the nice slight descent on the way back.

21.2 Mile Run @ 03:37:24

Last night, I was in bed by 8:15 and asleep by 8:30. I did not even set the alarm for swimming and decided that the only thing I could throw at my week long headache and sore legs was a good night's sleep. Got it :)

Core Class @ 00:30:00

This morning, Katie picked me up at 5:15 and we drove to and parked at 70th and 35th. Our plan was to run 70th, 65th and 70th for the workout. I definitely struggled and my legs were tired. It did not help that Katie would bound way ahead and then jog BACKWARDS uphill while I tried to catch up. We also worked on my downhill posture (as in stop breaking).

She did crack me up near the end by telling me that I had better notice how breathtakingly beautiful the view is during the race, or she was going to hurt me, no matter how badly I was already hurting at the finish line :)

6 Mile Hill Run @ 01:06:00

Got in a lift at the Java Gym (yuck...)

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00

When my alarm went off this morning for swimming, there was no question in my mind that I was not going to go. I was glad for the extra hour of sleep, and my legs agreed. I did make it in for core class and got in a nice EASY jog during lunch.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

4 Mile Easy Run @ 00:40:00

I went to Hatha yoga this morning and even though I got my butt kicked, I was able to modify it enough to make it through. I really want to be able to touch my toes by the end of 2008!

Yoga Class @ 01:15:00

And for giggles, here is my 50k Training Plan.

I got in my speed workout after work. The plan was to run 7 miles and run a mile at 10k pace, recover for 3 minutes and repeat. I ran down Madison for a mile to the Arboretum and used that section out and back for my mile repeats. It was good because I got some incline as well as a gravel/dirt path to run on. My splits were 8:26, 8:47, 8:14 and 8:48. My quads still hurt a lot but I felt very good about the workout.

7 Mile Speed Run @ 01:01:05

My legs hurt a lot today and going down stairs was tough. I got in a core session and then a lift in the afternoon.

Core Class @ 00:30:00
Upper Weights @ 00:40:00

After spending the remainder of yesterday horizontal, icing my knees and popping Ibuprofen, I woke up this morning in time for running group. I had 10 miles on my training plan and the group had 8 so I had to add two at the end. I started out with the fast runners and gasped and limped my way through that first mile trying to keep up. By three miles, I had fallen behind and was running on my own at a much much slower pace but actually felt okay and finished without feeling completely whipped.

10 Mile Run @ 01:45:00

Cheryl took all the coaches out for breakfast at Cafe Flora after and I had a delicious scramble. At one point, Cheryl said that it would be really good for me to take an ice bath for recovery. I disagreed and said it was a terrible idea. But of course, after breakfast, I went to the grocery store to pick up a bag of ice. Any security cameras in the store would have caught a very disgruntled me with the crabbiest look on my face purchasing that ice. When I got home, I ran the cold water and got into the tub. Slowly. Yelping while adding the bag of ice. Even Wally thought it was a very stupid idea and we commiserated together about how unfair the world was. I decided to stay in for 15 minutes or until the ice melted. Whichever was longer. Ended up making it almost 20 and my legs are still cold even though I am wearing my flannel jammie bottoms and am wrapped in a blanket.

A few weeks ago, Jen signed us up for an Intro to Yoga class at Greenlake and today was our first day. It was just a perfect level for me (although Jen said it was the easiest yoga class she had ever taken) and even though the instructor, when trying to get me in to a basic pose said "stop running", I did like it and look forward to the next class!

Yoga Class @ 01:15:00

Today's run was 18 miles and Jen figured out that 2x Mt. Si plus and extra couple would do the trick and I agreed. We drove there around 9 AM and I hit the first lap -- and Mt. Si hit back. Hard. The way up was much steeper than I anticipated and I did a combination of run/walk that ended up being about 75% walk and 25% run. Only had one wipe out and it could not have been an easier one. I tripped over a rock or something on a section of the trail that was mostly dirt. I caught myself easily and just did a little push up to get myself back up again. The very last bit was up some super steep rocks but I made the 3200 feet 4 mile trail in 01:15:00 it and turned around to do it again.

After seeing Jen much sooner than I thought I would on the way back, I did my best to try to run down yet not kill myself. It was raining intermittently and the rocks were fairly slippery. I was only slightly faster on the way down, finished in 02:15:00 and turned around again.

This time the rain really started to pick up and I ended up doing the second ascent as a fast walk because there really was not much run left in me. I got a lot of comments this time around from people who had seen me my first lap and saw Jen again, who was running the descent and having a total blast. At the top, the wind was really howling and the rain was coming down pretty hard. It took me 5 minutes longer to make the ascent this time and I was quite happy to be headed back. I think I got a little better descending and was only 1 and a half minutes slower than my last decent. Not bad on really tired legs! I let the last two miles go and figured I got in a very good workout with the 16 I did.

16 Mile Trail Run @ 04:36:28 (6400 elevation gain)
140a

So I was feeling pretty proud of today's run until I checked December's race site and learned that the elevation gain is almost 11,000 and the cut-off time is 14 hours (I thought it was 16).

Core class was good, even though Jon kept cracking me up with her intermittent diatribe about last night's debate. After that, I got in my lift before heading to the mother ship for three hours of interviews.

Core Class @ 00:30:00
Upper Weights @ 00:30:00

After that, I headed back to 83 King to finish packing up my cube for our move back on Monday :(

This morning, I woke up at 5 o'dark and drove to Sandpoint and 70th to get in my hill run workout. The workout should really be called Hideous Hill Workout because I am not allowed to run just any hills. Oh no, Cheryl was quite happy to be clear that the hills were to be quite horrible in both incline and distance and none of my former hilly run routes would qualify.

So I warmed up just 5 blocks and ran up 65th and then kinda ambled around that neighborhood in the dark until I found my way to 70th and back down to where my car was. Then I ran back up 70th all the way to 35th and then back down to my car. I don't think I ran the 6 miles prescribed but I did do both of the terrible hills so I am considering it good for today.

5ish Mile Hideous Hill Run @00:55:00

I was pretty whipped going into spin class so I took it easy and probably only worked off 1/4 of the red velvet cupcake Tija brought in to say good-bye to the last us.

Spin Class @ 00:50:00

Last night, I ate a hamburger and the beef seemed to lift my spirits/muscles again as well as the 9 hours of sleep (note, skipped swimming...again...)

I did make it into core class and suffered.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

After work, I talked Jen into dropping me off at Greenlake and ran (easy, super easy) around most of the lake and headed home via Meridian and 80th. I had a weird cramp in the left side of my chest but it went away.

4 Mile Run @ 00:40:00

Last night, I met with Cheryl to get my 10 week plan for the North Face 50 mile race. Ouch. Even though I went to bed early last night, I kept waking up because I was actually nervous about my run. I ran from home to and around Greenlake (27:11) and then looped over 2 miles again (21:46) to get in a 5ish fast pace and then an easy aerobic run home. I was supposed to run 7 miles but I think it ended up being closer to 8.

Fast Pace Run @ 01:15:12
152a

I was tired tired tired during spin class today. I would like to blame it on this morning's run but I am pretty sure it is all in my head because I am quite freaked about my training plan...

Spin Class @ 00:50:00

Yesterday was my last day of running vacation. Today starts my 50 miler training and no better way to hit reality than the following e-mail from Cheryl...

As for during the week, let's plan for Monday and Friday to be no run days, so time for a swim/bike. Runs on Tuesday will be your faster run (6-12 depending on week), Wednesdays easy and shorter (3-5 miles), Thursdays a notch slower than Tuesdays faster than lsd (7-10 depending on week). We will go over paces, times, distances when I see you.

Good-bye slacker-ville and hello lots more stinky laundry. The scars from my running bra have almost completely healed so this past week was good for more than just my legs. This morning was core class and I will head back to the gym later for a lift at some point.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Got in a lift around 4:00.

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00

Met the group this morning at Gaswork for a run. The schedule had 5 miles but I started out with the 8 mile group and then turned around about halfway to try to get back in time to check incoming runners in. Of course, my math was completely wrong and I ended up running the last 3 miles at a sprint/tempo pace and still got back too late.

7.75ish Mile Run @ 01:10:00

This morning was the perfect one to get in a nice bike ride. I did a spin around the South end of Lake Washington and learned exactly how not recovered my legs are.

37.5 Bike Ride @ 02:40:00

I surprised even myself by getting up for swim practice this morning after kicking back a couple of martinis (this is my one and only week off hard training btw) during last night's social at Purr. Wally was happy to crawl into my warm spot on the bed and go right back to sleep after supervising my teeth brushing.

Today's practice was a set of 25's and I appreciated all the rest!

Swim Practice @ 01:00:00

I only made it in for the last 10 minutes of core because I had to send out some e-mails before I headed down to the gym.

Core Class @ 00:10:00

Got in a nice run along the waterfront today during lunch. My legs felt pretty rusty when I first started but once I warmed up, I realized that I actually have my run back! Looking forward to sleeping in tomorrow morning and hopefully a nice easy bike ride.

3.5 Mile Run @ 00:28:00

Perry sent me the following quote yesterday and I thought it was just perfect!

"It's very hard in the beginning to understand that the whole idea is not to beat the other runners. Eventually you learn that the competition is against the little voice inside you that wants to quit."

GEORGE SHEEHAN

Got in a nice lift this morning and plan to spin at lunch.

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00

Spin class was good. I am trying to talk Tija into cupcakes for next Thursday as my going away party since we move next Friday and I probably will not be able to make spin during lunch.

Spin Class @ 00:50:00

Today, I am starting to feel a bit more like ME. I made it to swim practice this morning by telling myself that I would take it easy and remember this was my recovery week. That worked until I actually got into the pool and there were way too many people in my lane and only one in the faster next one up. I went over, again with a plan to cut out 50's here and there when needed.

Of course, I did not take into account my pride/personality/whatever and did my best to hang in there with the "big kids" through a completely ass kicking distance workout. One set was supposedly a set that increased by 100 each time but because I got no rest, it turned out to be a straight up 1500 swim. Not entirely pleasant for me as I have not been swimming in 2 weeks but I made it through.

2700 Swim Practice @ 01:00:00

Jon also continued the pain during core class this morning.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

I had a really tough time talking myself into a run but I lucked out because Katie agreed to run with me after work. We met at her place for a quick spin around Greenlake and I was definitely sucking wind and feeling tired! Didn't time it so 30 minutes is an approximation. I had a great evening though after and soaked in the tub drinking my cheap wine while Wally supervised and tried to drink all the bath water...

3.2 Mile Aerobic Run @ 00:30:00

This morning, I just did not want to get out of bed to run and decided instead to continue my recovery theme and just spin today. I am feeling less sore than last night but have the startings of a stupid post-race or fall cold.

Spin class was good and my legs did tire quickly but the good 70's music kept things going.

Spin Class @ 00:50:00

I limped around yesterday and ran some errands and finally cleaned the house hoping that moving would keep the pain at bay but it just got worse as the day continued. I did not venture out and missed the FFF. Finally, I gave up in the evening lounged on the couch after throwing some vitamin I and cheap wine at my sore muscles while Wally did my hair.

I had a 7:30 meeting so I had to cut core class a little short. Unfortunately, Jon made certain we did partner obliques and that just really kicked my ass :( She did say that she would wait until the Wednesday I got back after my 50 miler, because she is all heart...

Core Class @ 00:15:00

I got in a lift today but did it with lighter weights than usual. I sure am whipped :(

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00

I got a get out of running group free pass today so I took it and slept until 8:00. Spent the day trying to keep myself fed and am actually feeling less sore than I thought I would although I do tire easily.

Oh, and it did not take a week to decide to do the San Francisco 50 miler in December. Flights and hotel have been booked.

Baker Lake 50k Race Report

Last night, I zipped through a team happy hour and then a birthday party on the hill to make it home in time to have a good balanced pre-race dinner with Jen. We hit the road by 5:15 AM and headed North for my first endurance marathon, the Baker Lake 50k.

We were fortunate enough to leave the rain in Seattle and got me there in time to get in no less than 3 potty stops while swarms of mosquitoes feasted on all of us. I liked how very low-key the start was and had some time to mentally prepare for the race. Okay, mentally preparing meant pretty much silently freaking out while Jen unsuccessfully tried to make me smile for a picture.

The race course had to be changed so it was a double out and back on single track with an extra 4 mile dog leg on a dirt rode before going out on the trail.

We stood through a race briefing at the start line and took off.

The first 1.7 miles started flat and then were uphill. Then the next two miles (note the ones added) were straight uphill on a dirt road. Not a great way to start the race but I was able to climb steadily and get a bit of speed on the way down. Then off to the trail part and out and back 1 (14 miles). Now that trail part had been billed as quite flat but I learned it is a matter of perspective. It was more like the Cougar Mountain Trail runs and had much more ascending, descending and technical challenges than I had anticipated. Of course the first 3 uphill miles didn't help :(

I started to freak out a bit about the narrow path thinking about all the other runners I would have to navigate the path with but made myself just let it go and not waste my energy on something that hadn't happened yet. I ran for about 6 miles with another woman because we paced well together. I realized though that my HR was a bit high and I did not want to spend everything the first half so I had her go ahead of me on a hill while I race walked it.

On the way back the first time, I started to lose it a bit both physically and mentally. I was surprised by the depth and breadth of highs and lows that I experienced. Often, I was completely alone and started to get really tired forcing me to combine more walking with my running. It turned out that the back part seemed to have more ascending -- realizing that helped me the second time. I also had my only wipe out when trying to pass a guy on the trail. He had moved over a bit to let me go by but I slipped when stepping off the trail on some branches and landed on a stick that left a good sized mark on my side.

I hit the aid station at about 20 miles in and got a lot of encouragement from Jen there as well as some Pepsi that tasted just amazing. After procrastinating (for a few more moments), I headed back out for 10 miles. I felt great again on the way out and had a solid pace to the turn around point. Perry offered some encouraging words at that point and then passed me to finish 8 minutes ahead. He told me that we should finish together and I tried to keep up for 1 minute before watching him bound off.

My final back was pretty much mental and all I could think about was the Pepsi at the aid station. Pace was pretty much a run/walk and I gulped three small cups of Pepsi at the aid station before the last 1.7 miles heading down the hill towards the finish line. Nothing was left in my system at that point and 2 of the women I had been leap-frogging with during the race flew by me.

I limped in (Jen shot a video of it at the finish line on her phone and I am trying to get it to load...) and after crossing the finish line, I said "I don't want to run another 19 miles". One of the guys sitting at the finish said "You will by next week". I was hoping to get under 6 hours but was happy with a 06:03:00 finish (11:30 pace). Jen did a great job taking care of me after and got me fed, moving and changed. I had one little teary melt-down when trying to take off my shoes but it was minor.

31.5 Mile Trail Run @ 06:03:00

I very much like the trail running culture and thought about some of the differences during the race.

IN Quiet pre-race introspection and friendly encouragement
OUT Pre-race posing and smack talking.

IN Race attire for comfort, not appearance
OUT Matchy matchy tri suits with racing stripes/flowers/etc.

IN Wool socks and Gators with dorky prints
OUT Wright Running socks and bike socks with designs around the cuff

IN Beautiful litter-free path. Never once saw even the corner of a gel package
OUT Race food packaging and discarded water bottles along the side of the road

IN Lots of genuine encouragement and friendly chatter
OUT "On your LEFT"

IN Brave Soldier (much much better!)
OUT Body Glide

I am afraid I am a bit hooked...

After spinning quite a bit yesterday, I finally settled down (thanks Jen) and got a very good night's sleep. Jon was nice enough to decide against "partner obliques" because of my run tomorrow but figured out other ways to create pain...

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Got in a quick run today on the treadmill. Kept the pace up a bit and then walked the last 5 minutes.

3.2 Mile Run @ 00:30:00

When I got home last night, there was a note taped to my door from my neighbor, Kim who had watched Wally last week. She asked if she could visit Wally when she was home. It was really cute and of course, I told her that Wally and I would love it. He sure is a charmer even though he is sleeping in under the bed now that it is getting colder. Not exactly Main Coon like.

Got in a lift this morning before my morning meetings.

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00

I am pretty much in my pre-race freaked out space right now. I am pretty certain that I will be able to do the distance but I have never actually done it to have that proof. And my way of dealing with something scary is to put something scarier (for example, a 50 mile race in December) behind it to try to shrink how intimidating the initial scary thing is. I am excited to see what I am made of. I really think I have it in me but I am also worried about failing because I have had this theory that I am good at endurance events and finding out differently would blow that theory to pieces. Writing this, I realize that I need to put together a race plan for Saturday so I will work on that.

I kept it fairly easy aerobic during spin class and enjoyed the 80's music theme Tija put together.

Spin Class @ 00:50:00

This morning I just could not convince myself to get out of bed and go to swim practice. Even when the (now re-set) alarm went off at 6:20, even Wally did not want to wake up and I had to actually look for him. It was such a nice cool night and that makes for simply wonderful sleeping. I did manage to make it in for core class (missed you Nancy!) and I know some of the stuff we did will hurt tomorrow...

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Got in a nice aerobic run today along the waterfront.

5.5 Mile Run @ 00:48:00

I am beginning to freak out a little about Saturday and this e-mail from the organizer did not help too much...

Dear Baker Lake 50K Runners:

This will be the last email update before Saturday. We re-visited the Baker Lake course yesterday with a mind to finalize planning to boat/mule supplies to the downed Hidden Creek Bridge. Unfortunately, although the Forest Service suggested to us that we would be able to boat supplies to the Hidden Creek Bridge, this will be logistically impossible. Thus, Baker Lake will be run as a double out & back (partially on the gravel road/mainly on the single track trail). There will be an abundant aid station that will be available at approx. miles 4, 6, 20 and 30.

I re-invite you to bring your full drop bags without regard to us having to haul them by foot. A 1:30 p.m. cutoff (5.5 hours) will be enforced at mile ~20 (the Baker Lake South trailhead aid station). This course change will also allow your crew/family members to see you multiple times at the same aid station.

Thanks for understanding this late change. Shawn

I am in training all day so I got in a run this morning. I took the loop around Greenlake at a faster pace and ran the rest at an aerobic pace. Got to see Ann and Karen on my run :)

5.5 Mile Run @ 00:51:30

Feeling a little sleepy and cranky this morning. Perhaps I used up all my good will trying to keep a good attitude in the Austin heat.

This morning was core class and I was so happy to see Nancy there!

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Got in a nice lift in the afternoon. I think I will ask Tija to include a class called Bat Wings :)

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00

Ran with Cheryl's group this morning and our route was around the most beautiful and sunny Lake Union. I felt great and very much enjoyed the climate.

6.2 Mile Run @ 00:54:00

This morning, we slept in a bit and Jen headed to the last seminar in her conference while I headed out the door to get in my short long run. Thanks to Ike, there was a nice breeze going but I am still not acclimated to the Texas heat and humidity. My run was slow but I got to explore more of the Town Lake Trail and while it seemed to be the longest two hour run I have done in a long time, I was glad to have such a beautiful trail to do it on.

12 Mile Run @ 02:00:00

Our travel plans were only affected by a 10 minute delay and I am so grateful to be back to Seattle and its humane climate! I am also so glad to be back with Wally, who appears to be very very happy to have me back even though my neighbor, Kim completely spoiled him while I was gone :)

In case no one has yet heard...there is a big hurricane coming to Texas. It is all the buzz here and one cannot watch the news/walk down the street without hearing all about it. Fortunately, Austin should be fine but our flight leaves from Dallas tomorrow afternoon just when it is supposed to swipe by there. So we may be here another day or two.

Today, I went back to Gold's for their spin class and arrived a bit early so I did some light elliptical. I even tried to read a magazine and felt like a normal gym chick who does not sweat so profusely during her workouts that people give her a really wide berth. I even got in a few minutes of core.

Elliptical Machine @ 00:20:00
Core @ 00:03:00

Then off to spin class. I only had my sneakers and I am beginning to taper for next week so I gave it medium effort despite the three mountains the instructor wanted us to climb. It was worth it and I am glad I went.

Spin Class @ 00:30:00

This morning, I went for a run with the plan to get it in before it got too hot. I ran from the hotel to the Town Lake Trail for an hour run. At 6:30 AM, it was still dark out and the unsavory characters who seemed to congregate 24/7 next to the hotel were there as I ran by. I ran with my water bottle carrier and it was like running in a sauna. I found the trail after about a mile and joined many other runners on that trail. I was hurting from the heat and just wanted to stop them and ask "how on earth can anyone run here?". I left my ego in the hotel lobby with the air conditioning and just decided I would run for an hour and would not care if an octogenarian pushing her triplet grandchildren wearing a pink running skirt passed me going up hill. I was just out there to survive.

I came back to the hotel and swore to never sign up for a race in in Texas.

6 Mile Run @ 01:00:00

We went to Gold's Gym in downtown Austin for a weight workout this afternoon. Even the weights are heavier in Texas but I was happy to get in a good workout.

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00
Core @ 00:20:00

Yesterday was a travel day and it was too damn hot in Austin to do anything but walk slowly to eat dinner. The hotel where we are staying is undergoing construction so their "fitness center" has been temporarily relocated to a small room in the 4th room with minimal equipment. The good news is that there are stairs so this morning I got in a good stair workout. It took me between 2:30 and 2:45 to go from the bottom to the top and I alternated going up one step at a time and taking it two at a time by floor. I did 14 sets and felt good about it.

Stair Workout @ 01:20:00

We checked out the Gold's Gym here and while it is not terribly impressive, it will do for a good lift tomorrow. There is also a nice running trail here and I play to get in a nice run in the early morning before it gets too bad again.

Made it in this morning for Core class. Jon was back in full force and hurt us. Badly.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Oh, the biggest news is that Cheryl and I met yesterday and she is going to put together a training plan for the North Face Endurance Race (50 miles) in December. Still kinda wrapping my head around it. My training will be back to back long runs on the weekends. Still in a bit of disbelief that I could actually do something like that but I remember when a 5k seemed impossible. With the best coach and support system (Katie even said she will come to SF to be my pacer) in the universe, I have all the tools I need.

Upper Weights @ 00:40:00

Last night, I was a bit over-served on Mango Margaritas and it is entirely my fault because I was the bartender. But it was a fun evening with great company and conversation and my Korean spicy ribs seemed to be a hit.

I did pay though this morning during running group and the first mile was a bit rough but once the tequila started to exit my body as I sweat, it got better.

4.9 Mile Run @ 00:45:00

I took the rest of yesterday off. I had cramps from hell that would not be appeased with the 600 mg of Ibuprofen I threw at them and ended up taking a late afternoon nap.

But sleep, gobs and gobs of it helped. This morning's long run plan was 15-18 miles and Jen and I drove to Marymoor so I we could both do an out and back at our respective distances on the trail. I did not start running until 10:30 and it ended up being a bit warmer than I anticipated. But I felt good -- good enough to do last mile fast mile at the very end and finished strong.

18+ mile run @ 02:52:00

I took the rest of yesterday off but made it up this morning for swim practice. My "feeling under the weather" has taken a turn to a definite cold :( But nothing like a bit of chlorine, sprints and leading a lane to help blow it out.

2550 Swim Practice @ 01:00:00

Jon is back! And she was gentle with us today as it was our only core class this week.

Core Class @ 00:30:00

Got up at 5 this morning to get in a run before my 7:30 meeting. I did a hilly loop up to 130th and back around. I felt good even though my pace was not exactly speedy...

5.6 Mile Run @ 00:55:00

When I got into the lane this morning for swimming, I noticed a lot of new bodies. We had 4 new guys join us and I just knew it was going to be trouble. Because I am, as Julie puts it a tweener -too fast for the slowest lane but too slow for the next lane up, I sometimes get stuck with the newbies who have strength but little endurance, skill or etiquette.

We started out with 50 drills and this big guy kept pushing up the lane to eventually lead. That was fine because he was strong -- for 50's. Then our next set was kicking and pull. Arnie and I alternated leading that one. During one of the pulls, I got smacked hard on my hand by a swimmer in the next lane. Smacked so hard that my hand just went limp and I could not even swim the rest of the length with it. Afterward, the guy who smacked me asked if I was all right. By then I was but I did take a hit as he is one of the strongest swimmers AND he was wearing hard hand paddles. OUCH.

Finally, we had a distance set of broken 600's, starting with 100's then 150's, then 200's and finally with 300's. The big guy led every OTHER one and sprawled himself across half of the wall each time as he sat out (breathing hard) on the ones out that I led. Annoying but we can whip him into shape eventually.

2500 Swim Practice @ 01:00:00

I got in a run during lunch and did a hilly route up Yessler to Martin Luther King blvd and then back through the I90 tunnel path. Hit every red light I could and while it was not a spectacular run, it was solid.

5ish Mile Run @ 00:50:00

Tonight was Cheryl's group and it was a combination of drills and then a 3 mile run with increasing intensity around Greenlake. I ran with a group and stopped at each mile marker to indicate where the mile marker was to the participants as they ran by. I worked hard in between and my splits were 7:19 and 7:09 so I am calling it a good. I left pretty quickly after because I am feeling a tiny bit under the weather and did not want to get cold while sweaty.

3 Mile Run @ 00:30:00

Stayed up way too late last night watching a stupid action movie Wally did not approve of. I decided against swimming in the morning and just got in my lift. My legs welcomed the break.

Upper Body Weights @ 00:40:00

Today, we went for a nice easy hike to Snow Lake and took it at a recovery pace. It was a beautiful sunny morning and the views were wonderful.

6 Mile Hike @ 02:30:00