Arizona Half Marathon - 1:36:01

Zach and I ran the Arizona Half Marathon in 1:36:01. Way above my expectations on the race. Zach did great and ran very strong, start to finish averaging a 7;20 pace. I think we got a boost from the Altitude drop down to 1200 feet from mile high Denver, running a flat course and a nice cool, cloudy day in Phoenix, temperatures in the 40's to 60 at the finish.

Arizona Half Marathon Race Result


Pre Race

This is a huge race. Largest single day Marathon/Half Marathon race in the country. 30,000 register. 28,000 finishers. About 6000 marathon. Huge half marathon field, 30 corals, 2 to 1 women to men in the half. I had no idea it was this big really when I registered us a few months ago when Zach said he'd like to do his first half marathon before Track Season Starts in the spring.

We arrived at the expo and there were so many people pouring in and out, largest expo I've ever seen. Tons of vendors. Zach and I walked around for a couple of hours, took some pictures and bought matching Arizona 1/2 Marathon Singlets, that we later wore in the race. I also got a hat and a shot glass. After we were expo'd out, we ate lunch in Phoenix and then when We got backed to the parking garage a couple of blocks away, it was gridlocked. Seriously nobody was moving any direction. I was on the 4th floor and could not even back out. People were yelling, cussing and honking, 2 guys almost got in a fight trying to squeeze each other out. Pathetic. After about 45 minutes it broke and we were able to get out. Crazy, never seen a parking garage like that before. We drove to our hotel Mission Palms in Tempe near the race finish.


Zach and I at the big Expo the day before the race.

We got lost on the way to the hotel and then got stopped by a long funeral possession can't remember the last time that happened. But then we made it to the hotel around 2. The Mission Palms in Tempe. I would recommend this hotel if you are going to do the race with a couple of caveats. Don't eat at the hotel not too bad, but pricey and there are better restaurants within blocks, it's a "race" hotel but they didn't really cater to the runners like other races and hotels I've stayed at. The hotel is loud, with planes and noisy night life with ASU campus right next to it but that adds to the fun. Also I think the light rail would be the way to go rather than renting a car (taking the light rail from the airport and to the expo, could save some $$). The buses to the start of the race pick up 3 blocks away, and the finish is about 10 blocks away, a nice downhill walk back with some nice views.

Zach and I ate the pasta dinner at the hotel the night before and went to bed early, although neither one of slept solid. I got more sleep than I usually do though. We got up, had some cereal and fruit (no bananas) and went to catch the bus. Which was an easy walk up the road, buses waiting no lines, it was about 6:15. Arizona doesn't do daylight savings time so it's still dark till 7:30 or so this time of year. Long bus ride to the start, lots of lights and turns, took about 45 minutes. We got there and hit the porta potti's of course, the lines were small and the porta pottis were spread out around the start area ( a good idea). We watched the marathoners start at 7:40. About 6000 of them. I kept thinking, I am so glad I'm NOT running a marathon today. Our race started at 8:30 so we headed over to our start area

We got in the porta potti line again, longer now as more runners arrived for the half. We ate a snack on the curb outside our corral and got in our corral. Some confusion as to the corral being 1 or 2, we had a mix of runners, but the guard said it was 2. I put us in a 1:40 finish time when I registered us, based on Zach's 5k times. I told Zach we were probably in a group that was too fast, so get to the back and just run our pace. John McCain started the race, Zach got a kick out of that, he worked on his campaign a bit with Gina in 2008. We ran right by him as he waved from the podium.

First 5K

We started out at an easy pace or so it seemed. Very flat road, which is pretty much the whole race. You kind of wind your way through downtown Phoenix with crowds cheering. W e were running easy, didn't have to dodge too much running traffic as the road was very wide. I looked down at my Garmin and we were holding about a 7 minute pace pretty easy. Zach was surprised how easy it was. Flat, dry, negative altitude and adrenaline are great fuel injuctors. I told Zach it's easy now, but wait for the 9th mile and then let's talk. He had never raced over a 10k before. I watched my Garmin close and would not let us get faster than 7 min miles nor slower than 8, which was not a problem. A few times I had to tell Zach we were going too fast. Sometimes he would get a burst of energy from a band or passing runners or cheerleaders on the side of the road and would speed up.

You turn right on McDowell Road and that's where you run 50% of the race on a single flat road that reminds me of Colfax in Denver, but with a Phoenix flair. Lots of crowd support during the race. The Marathon has a different course, not even the same start or finish line, so it's all crowd for the half. Amazing how flat it is though. Near the 3 mile mark you turn off the road around Coronado Park (2 blocks) and then back, is the only break you get from this road until mile 8.

We took old long sleeve shirts which we wore the first 2 miles then shed them on the course at a bus stop. Zach had torn his so he could tear away the shirt. I did not think it would work, but it did. We tossed the shirts and we both had matching Arizona 1/2 Marathon singlets. This gave us a little energy boost. It was nice running together in matching shirts, obviously father and son, we got a lot of crowd comments and cheers along the way. Picture Below



I signed up for text messages for 5 people for Zach ($5 for 5) so when we hit the 5k mark at 23:12, it was kind of neat thinking how everyone would get a text with our nice start and be thinking about us. The 5k mark was actually the 3.2 mark according to my Garmin which was pretty accurate the whole way.

10 K
Back on Mcdowell road. Water stops every other mile (odd mile numbers). We had a great 5k and it seemed like we could hold the pace around 7:15 or so. Slowing down a bit at the water stations and surging now and again from the bands, cheerleaders and crowd. We were running smooth and in synch. Passing a lot of runners who were starting to fade. We took a GU at mile 5, thought the water was just ahead but it was just cheerleaders, so we had to run a half mile or so with GU mouth. I told Zach from now on, only take the gu when you see the water cups. The course had bands along the way and cheerleaders of all ages (schools or clubs). Good crowd support at the cross streets. And good water stations.




We crossed the 10k at 45:21. I told Zach congratulations on your 10k PR. He had run the first 10k of the half with a PR. And the 2nd 5k faster than the first. He was feeling good and surprised how much he had in the tank as we approached half way of a half marathon.

10 Mile
I told Zach when we were half way 6.55 miles. We got to mile 8 and finally turned off McDowell road and headed toward Tempe. From the 10k mark to 10 miles is where the half starts to fatigue you, if you started out at a 10k pace you will definitely fatigue in this section. You cross under a couple of highways and for the first time, I noticed some elevation. It actually climbs from about mile 5 to mile 10 very slowly.

At one point just past mile 8, there were some high school cheerleaders on the side of the road with their hands out for high 5's. About 20 of them. Zach went for it, high 5'd them all at about a 6 minute pace. The girls were squealing so loud and smiling, as was Zach and I. I heard a runner behing me say "That's pretty neat". That was my favorite memory of the race. I had to slow him down a bit after that super charge.



We hit the 10 mile mark at 1:13:18. Our pace had dipped a bit on the uphill climb, but overall way ahead of my estimate. Zach started calculating our finish time with a 5k to go. We were both confident we could come in under 1:40. 1:35 would be a fast 5k. That 10 mile fatigue was hitting us a bit, but we were staying on pace. I told him the peak elevation was at the 10 mile mark and it was downhill from there, I was wrong, uphill and downhill lie ahead.


Last 5k

At the 10 mile mark, you are near the Phoenix Zoo and can look down on the valley you about to run to Tempe. It's actually a rolling downhill section. We were holding a 7:20 pace and faster on the downhill parts. We were feeling an adrenaline rush as we knew we were closing in on the Stadium and finish. It was beautiful through here, more rural with palm trees, cactus and desert stretches, some really nice rock formations and views unlike McDowel Road. As the last 3 miles clicked off we got a bit faster, winding through areas, up and down hills. Just before we crossed the Salt River, there was a band rocking out on the road, they had just started playing "Born to be Wild". The singer was on the course giving high 5's. Zach high 5'd him and gave us both a boost. It was a very long bridge across the river but we ran it quick as the band faded into the background.

At about the 12.5 mile mark, Zach started pushing the pace. He always had a strong kick. I wanted to stay with him to be in the finish line photos together (plus a part of me is not ready to be beat by him yet..). So I stayed with him. We passed a ton of runners and were running 6 minute miles the last 2 10ths. You turn into the stadium parking lot and the crowd is cheering like crazy and the cameramen are everywhere and there's the finish. I made sure we finished together. and prayed my hamstring did not twang. 1:36:01.







I was so happy and proud of him. We hugged and congratulated each other, got some water, our finishers medals and took a post race picture together. I think he was a little stunned, I had felt that before a few times. Like Wow, did I just do that? Where did that come from? I did it!

Garmin Watch Data for Race

Post Race

After we got our picture taken at the finisher’s photo area together, we got some food. They had the usual stuff, nothing special but a lot of it, multiple rows. Runners only food area. Wanted a bagel, but there was none. They passed out cytomax during the race and at the finish, I really wanted a Gatorade, but cytomax was the sponsor so orange slices instead. On weird thing, no bags were available. I guess they didn’t want you to stock up on food, only what you could carry or eat there. There was a chain link fence with spectators outside, looking inside and talking to friends/family I felt kind of like I was in a zoo getting fed. Zach grabbed a finishers blanket, more because he wanted to hang it on his wall than actually needing it, he tied it around cape style and looked good with his finisher’s medal.

Once you leave the food area, there was a big area of booths, but nothing great. There was a separate food finish area for marathoners too. I wondered if they got bags. We walked around a bit, got some schwag and a bag finally, but not a lot of great stuff. They had a booth that would engrave your time on your medal for $20 but who has money on them and that’s a lot., Zach said we could engrave them at home with a chisel. I told him to practice on his medal first and then do mine There were a lot of pay booths too for food and other stuff, not very many free booths outside the food area.

The infield of the ASU track stadium was a meeting place. They had signs with Alplahbet Letters so you could find your person, I thought that was smart. Would you go with first name or last name though? I went over to the MGD booth and grabbed a free beer, that I had to wear a bracelet for the day before and through the race. Unfortunately it was only good for 1 free beer. This race could learn a thing or two from Colorado about post race hospitality and beer at the end. I got the impression this race pumps a lot of money into the Arizona economy and McCain even said if your out of towners "spend money" as he started the race. I sat in the sun with the M’s and stretched out and drank my beer. Nice views from a very nice track. I wondered what kind of track records and track stars had run here over the years, being a PAC 10 school

Meanwhile Zach went to soak his feet in an ice bath. They put your feet in plastic and give you an ice bath. He took his shoes off and found he had a few nice blisters and a bloody toe. He was very proud of his bloody toe that left a blood spot on his Asics. A badge of honor for his first half.

We met up and went to the information booth to find the shortest way back to the hotel. We knew it was on the other side of the stadium and the big hill. A nice lady gave us directions and a map. We ended up missing a turn and had to jog across the marathon finish area near mile 26. There were 3:15 marathoner's finishing at that time, they looked good, but didn’t seem to be going that fast. When I was near the finish of my marathon a few months ago, I felt like I was flying at the end.

We walked down Veterans Parkway to the hotel, which loops around the big hill we would climb the next day. A nice downhill walk, about 15 minutes at our slow pace. Throngs of people were walking the opposite direction with families, kids, cell phones. They were going to the finish to watch someone come it. All the way back to the hotel. It was kind of cool, we had our medals on and the sun was out for real now. It had peaked out just as we were starting our kick at the end but went away again.

We went back to the hotel, I grabbed a couple of beers from the hotel bar and we went to the room to watch the Cowboys and Vikings playoff game. I wish this story had a perfect ending. I really do. But the Cowboys got beat badly. We took showers and at half time went to Gordon Biersch on Mills avenue for a lunch and to watch the second half. The cowboys were still in it (sort of) at that point. The bar was packed with runners wearing medals and running clothes very trendy for post race lunch. If you do this race, it’s a must. We had a view of the crowds coming down veterans’ parkway with their runners. Zach and I were texting and emailing on our phones with race results for family and friends and watching the Cowboys get stomped, the bar was 90% Viking fans and they were cheering pretty good against us. We shared a Hawaiian Pizza and watched the cowboys get stomped some more, but did not damper our spirits of the half marathon glow.

We went back to the hotel, hit the pool on the roof for a while, cloudy though. The pool was kind of cool, felt good on my right knee. Then hopped into the hot tub, the jets felt so good. Did a little hot/cold therapy.

At the pool, Zach said, “I guess this is the best Martin Luther King Weekend I’ve ever had.” Me too, Zach, me too.

That night we ate at PF Changs, a race sponsor, about 5 blocks from the hotel. A nice walk up Mills Avenue on a nice night. Again the restaurant was packed with runners and their families, the food was good. The race gives you a 15% off card good through March, multiple visits as a bonus. We walked around a bit in the area back to our hotel. A fun night. Rented a movie at the hotel “Zombieland”, very funny movie, kinda gross but not over the top IMHO.

The Day After

We slept good that night, both of us. We got up about 10am and did a donut run to Dunkin Donuts around the corner from the hotel. Hadn’t had donuts in a while and this was a guilty pleasure treat. We decided to hike up the hill that overlooks our hotel and the ASU stadium. The Hayden Butte Reserve. A couple hundred feet climb overlooking our hotel. We were a bit sore, but we were there and it was there so we had to do it.

It took us about 10 minutes to climb up, the trail has stairs and handrails at the top. A bit steep in parts, could feel it in the quads and hamstrings and also coming down, but a good way to stretch out some sore muscles. We took some pictures going up and down. There were runners running it, it would a great hill workout, maybe run to the observation point and not to the top for each interval.


Zach climbing the Hill.

A view of our Hotel and the Tempe Area we stayed at from the top of the hill

Then we showered, packed, checked out and went to In and Out Burger which was about a mile from the hotel (the only thing not within a 10 minute walk all weekend). Our first time at In and Out Burger, the menu cracks me up, it is so simple, burgers, fries and drinks. It was packed. We had cheeseburgers, fries, root beer and split a vanilla shake for desert. Yum. Zach got a t-shirt (cool to where in Denver because we don't have them here).

Then we flew home. What a great weekend we had. A few things I'd do different but overall very fun and a nice experience with my son Zach. Something both of us will remember for life. On the way back from the race, as we were walking to the Hotel, Zach asked me about maybe doing the full next year. I think he was half joking, but I told him they don't recommend them for runners under 18. Maybe his senior year, but we'd have to see. We might make this an annual trip for the next couple of years to do the half together.

Link to Zach's Race Photos

Link to Dennis Race Photos

City Park Duck Pond - 5

Ran the City Park duck pond run at lunch today. Nice day for mid January. Sun was out 45 degrees at lunch.

Ran with Craig, Matt, Andre and George. Yep George made it today, been a while.George turned back at about 2 miles, didn't want to push it too much his first time back.Andre did 7, on his way to China for work next week.

I was a bit sore, tight, not as relaxed and easy as I thought I should be.

Rest day tomorrow and then Pheonix half on Sunday.Zach and I fly out at 8 tomorrow morning.

Not sure if I'm taking my laptop, so it might be a while before I blog. I might post a short one with my bberry.

5 Miles 42:30

Wash Park 7

Ran the Wash Park 7 mile route today at lunch.
Was going to be an easy day, no tempo, but we did pick up the pace a bit coming back.

Jeff and Bob did a tempo run around Wash Park leaving early at 11:30, we saw them coming back they were going at a good pace. I'd like to do that workout in a couple of weeks.

Ran with Tom and Matt. Scott left a bit early and went around the park at tempo also, he caught us on the way back at Alameda. That's where we picked up the pace a bit the last 3 miles or so, around 7:20-7:30 range.

My quads were a bit sore from the hills on tuesday on the outside of the quad, both sides. I also felt a tweak in my left hamstring, I want no part of that, so I eased off a bit.

7 Miles 53:47

Garmin Watch Data for Run

Mile High Hill Repeats X 5 - 9 Miles

Week 2 of the 15 week Boston training plan and Week 2 of doing hills on Tuesday.I had a little more company today. Craig M and Craig C joined Tom and I for hill repeats.

Craig M's first trip to the hill. He ran 5 with me, well he beat me up to the top on 2 of the 5. He ran the first one really fast.

A bit faster this week 2:10, 2:14, 2:15, 2:16 and 2:14. Also quicker recovery/downhill interval
Tom and Craig did 4 hill repeats around 2:30. Was fun to watch them battle each other up the hill as Craig and I were trotting down. Like days of old.

It was really nice out, short sleeve weather in the 50's with Sun. A good day for an extended workout.

Ironically there is a urology center of Denver on the hill course. Funny that that is where the Pickled Prostates train for the hills. We were there first though. Maybe they will sponsor our team.

9 Miles 1:16:30
Garmin Watch Data

I messed up my Garmin going to the hill and coming back, that's why the map has a triangle on it and the mileage is off. Trust me it was 9 miles.

Wash Park 7

Ran the Wash Park 7 Mile route at lunch today.
Nice out, in the 40's with sun. Side streets have melted a bit, but not quite clear. Some slick black Ice spots. A couple caught me by surprise.

Jeff, Bob, Andre and myself ran the 7.
Good Pace overall, we picked it up as we ran.
I out kicked Bob to the pole at the turn around (cheated a bit by telling him there was a "car back" to get the jump on him.

7 Miles 53:57

Waterton Canyon Long Run 16

Moved my long run to Saturday for a variety of reasons, mainly to give Zach an extra rest day before his first half marathon next week.

We met Matt at Waterton Canyon at 10 and were running about 10:15. It was windy and cold. Some ladies that just finished running said the canyon was windy and cold, they were right.

Zach and I wore shorts, long sleeve shirts and gloves. Matt had tights and a couple of layers. We were running uphill into a stiff wind on the way to the dam. We saw some bighorn sheep along the way, probably the most I've ever seen there, and close too.

We ran out at an 8:20 pace, took us 51:44 to go the 6.4 miles. The footing was pretty good, a few slick spots, but a lot of dirt road also. We saw a lot of runner there today going and coming.

The river was beatuiful with the snow and the frozen waterfalls and ice. Blue skies and sun above the canyon. Some shady frozen tundra sections too.

We got to the turn around and had some Gu and water and looked at the Dam and ice falls.
Then we turned around and ran down, with the wind to our back and it was warming up. Matt peeled off a few layers. We let Zach set the pace and he did well, sub 8 on the way back, 7:30 at some sections. He had a good kick too. We ran back in 48:40, 3 minutes faster with a total time of 1:40:30 for 12.4 miles. Zach was strong at the end, even Matt said so. I think he'll do great next week in Phoenix

I filled up my water bottle and had a quick gu and gatorade break, said goodbye to Matt and then ran toward chattfield and back for 3.6 miles to give me 16. I slowed down some to about an 8:30 pace. That section has some rolling hills, I thought of Boston and that gave me a bit of a boost, I felt better than last weeks long run (last Sunday actuall). Ended up with an 8:14 average for the 16.

Garmin Watch Data for Run

Thanks to Matt and Zach for a great run

16 Miles 2:11:56

58.5 miles this week (thanks to 2 long runs) 1 Hill workout and 1 Tempo run in 7 days, I am ready for a rest day.

Duck Pond 5

Did an easy duck pond 5 mile run with the group today.
Andre, Craig C, Craig M, Matt and myself
It was warmer today, sun was out, good easy run. Felt good after yesterdays tempo run.

5 Miles 42 Minutes

Treadmill 7 - 4 at Tempo

I did my first tempo training run today, also my first treadmill run in 2010. Did not make it that far into the year before hitting the treadmill. It snowed about 3 inches last night and was bitter cold, 5 below zero last night and this morning. I worked at home so I went to the Rec Center near my house for my tempo run.

I would have run outside in the cold, but the footing was not good for a tempo run, so the rec center was the best option.

I ran 7 miles. 1.5 Warm up at 8 min pace, 4 at 6:44 pace and then 1.5 Recovery at 8 minute pace. It seemed to take forever but was only 51 minutes. I seem to lock in and stare at the display and numbers which makes it worse.

Nice facility, trails rec center. More open and more equiptment than the downtown Y, less people at lunch too. But I like the Y, seeing the regulars and the runners.

7 Miles 51 Minutes

Yoga and Recovery Day

I had a massage last night. 80 minutes of heaven. My legs were really tight from the last 3 days, the hills and the miles. Left hamstring was tight running back on Tuesday, Tara worked that, my calfs and my right knee which still tweaks me now and then.

I went to Yoga at lunch. Another cold spell moved in and some snow at lunch so it was a good day to stay inside, stretched some and then went to Yoga. Looked out the window as it was blowing snow. Tough class though. My balance and flexibility were off in my legs, probably due to the massage and the miles, need to work and flush that stuff out. That's why I do Yoga, and hydrate of course.

Supposed to be very cold and snow 3 inches, tempo day tomorrow so I might have to hit the dreadmill at lunch for a tempo run.

I've been sleeping well at night and feel generally rested for the first week of training. Yeah, only 15 more to go.

Mile High Hill Repeats X 4

Did the Mile High Hill Repeats workout today. 4 Hill Repeats. The hill is 1/3 of a mile up with about 120 ft of elevation gain. The hill is right next to mile high stadium.


Here's a map of where we start. It's 2.85 Miles from the Y to the start and 2/3 of a mile for each interval, so it makes for a long workout.


View Larger Map


I did 4 hill repeats. 2:24, 2:18, 2:14, 2:19.

We used to do this workout a lot in Jan/Feb with the group, to build leg strength. I've included it in my Boston Training, every Tuesday for 6 weeks adding 1 hill repeat each week. I looked at my log and it was February 12, 2007 since I did the workout last. Almost 3 years, my how time flies.

I sent a group email yesterday asking if anyone wanted to join me and leave early since it is a long workout, got a bunch of "maybe next weeks", only Tom was up for the challenge this week, he did 3 repeats and had to leave. Thanks Tom! Nice Job.

First time I've worn my Garmin on a hill workout. Kinda Cool, link below

Garmin Watch Data for Workout



8.5 Miles 1:12:30

Massage scheduled tonight, good timing 30 miles in the last 3 days, with a rest day tomorrow.

Wash Park 7

Ran the Wash Park 7 Mile run with the group today at lunch. Ran it easy, picked it up a bit the last 2 miles or so.

The side streets were icy and slick in the the shade still. Sidewalks were OK and the road from downing was good.

Ran with Andre, Bob, Craig C and Tom. Pete C went down the bike path.

I was a bit sore from the long run yesterday. Took a couple of miles to get the kinks out. Nice day, 38 with sun.

I tried to get some interest in joining me for hill repeats on tuesdays starting tomorrow on the run and then sent an email to the regulars. We shall see who shows up or if I'm solo on the hill.

7 Miles 56 Minutes

Highline Canal Long Run 15

Ran my first Boston Long Run training run today. Did 11 of it with Zach, a training run for Phoenix, then 4 more on my own.

We ran the Highline canal North from Orchard, out and back. It was snow packed with some patches melted, but mainly packed.

For the 11 with Zach, we had a nice pace. 8:18 going out the first 5 1/2. We slowed to an 8:30 for the 2nd half. Overall 11 miles in 1:32:20. Given the traction and footing that was pretty good. Zach slipped once on a curve and went down. I slipped on a snow back but didn't fall. We were both OK. We had a Gu and water break at the turn around, but other than that it was a steady 11.

After the 11, I filled up my water bottle, had a Gu and headed south on the trail, while Zach waited at the car. The trail was not so good in that direction and it gets more suburban with greenbelt trails. There were a couple of good snow packed hills going out that slowed me down too, plus I got fatigued, my first run over 10 in a while and first time over 2 hours running since the Marathon. You lose it quick.

15 Miles, 2:10:28

Garmin Watch Data for Run

I have my Boston Schedule on my calendar and on my training log. 15 Weeks to go.

650 miles to Boston, - 15 today.

2009 Running Review

Overall, I'd have to say 2009 was a good Running Year. Not great due to injuries, but it was a lot of fun and a year to remember.

Total Miles was 1609. That's down from 1924 in 2008.
218 Hours and 20 Minutes were spent running.
I ran on 221 out of 365 days last year. That's 61%, 4 out of 5 days.
My numbers were all down from 2008 and even 2007.
August was my best Month, 195 Miles following a terrible July low of 101 miles.
65 Was my peak weekly mileage. 26.2 the most on any one day.

I did 16 races last year. that's the most I've ever done in a year..

Injuries, a bad year but could always be worse...
I had re-occurring calf injuries in both calfs, then hip injury and finally a right knee thing the last couple of months. The Calf's were the worst and plagued me through the spring and summer. The hip took me out of Pikes Peak Marathon and almost cost me a Marathon.

Let's Review My 2009 goals and see how I did...

PR 1/2 Marathon (Sub 1:30:00)
Fail. I didn't even come close this year. 1:37 at Moab after pulling a calf muscle the week before and again during the race.

PR 1 Mile at Bannister Memorial (5:40)
Achieved. I ran 5:35 at Bannister on May 5th.

PR 10k at Bolder Boulder (Sub 40:00)
1/2 Credit. I had a PR 10k 42:26, but not even close to a sub 40. It felt good to get that old 10k PR from 1996 off the books.

Beat Last Years Time for Mt. Evans (2:47:52)
Fail. 3:00:29 at Mt. Evans, with another calf injury during the race. A painful gut it out race where Craig Carver beat me by a minute.

Pikes Peak Full Marathon
Fail. I withdrew from the race due to my hip injury following vacation. Tried a Burgen peak run that convinced me it was futile. A good decision given that I was able to run the relay and a Marathon injury free, I think. But you always wonder. Some Year I will do this race...

Run 2 Marathons (Not Counting Pikes Peak)
Fail. Only ran 1.

Log 2000 Miles for the Year
Fail, 1609 miles for me this year. After 2008 I thought with a healthy year I would be close to 2000.

Qualify for Boston 2010 (Sub 3:30:00 Marathon - PR)
Achieved. I Saved the best for last. This was the highlight of the 2009 year and my main goal. To qualify for Boston and achieve a Marathon PR. Not only Sub 3:30:00 but I exercised the 3:20 demon I had last year with a 3:19:24. I also felt great after running a Marathon for the first time ever. A memory I will cherish forever. My 5th Marathon.

So that's 2.5 out of 8 goals achieved. 30% not so good. But they were good goals and pushed me to stretch myself last year. I would trade them all for the 3:19:24 Marathon.

Other accomplishments not on my goals.
16 Races
A 10 Mile PR at Snowman Stampede 1:10:34
A 5 Mile PR at Cherry Creek Sneak 33:28
A 7K PR at Running of the Green 28:26
3rd Place at Colfax marathon Relay 2:55 (I was captain)
4th Place Colorado Relay finish (our highest ever) and recaptured our masters title.

So overall a good year. I am still thinking about my 2010 goals and will post them later.

I do want to thank all the family and friends and follow runners that have been with me through 2009 through the good and the bad, the ups and downs.
Thanks for making it a year to remember.

On to 2010...

New Years Eve - Toast Run

Today was our traditional New Years Eve Toast Run. We meet at the Y and do our usual Duck Pond run, only instead of walking the pond we run to the picnic area at the end of the park and Dave Caprera has a new years eve lunch and champagne toast ready for us. This is a tradition that goes back about 10 years, used to be just a toast, but a few years ago Dave started cooking lunch, usually something with a Gourmet Flair. We invite all the runners and Friends in and out of the group, previous runners, everyone is welcome.

Only 8 of us ran from the Y, in fact more people drove that ran from the Y this year. In the past we had as many as 20 runners from the Y to the Park. This year we had 17 total at the park, an off year.

It was a nice day, 40's and sun, better than predicted. Jill joined us from the Y along with the regulars, Andre, Craig C, Craig M, Tom and myself. Jill brought her camera and got this picture of us running up (east) on 16th.

Notice how Craig is boxing me out with his elbows? Does that all the time, now I have proof. :) Thanks for bringing the camera and the pictures Jill.

We did the usual run to the park, Jay met us part way, Scott had gone earlier. We met up with the group, some had run a bit in the park, some were in street clothes. When we got there Dave had beef bourguignon and Champagne waiting. 19 total. Pete C brought his wife and daughter.

Here's a picture of Dave making his annual Toast and Speech as we look on, his daughter Lisa made the Beef bourguignon, you can see it on the grill there. Thanks to her, it was delicious Compliments to the Chef!

So after the toast, we ate and drank a glass of Champagne and took this group picture.


After that, the group headed back to the Y, well part of them took off without telling the rest.
We ran back easy, it was such a nice day. A little slick running in spots.

Thanks to Dave for doing this again and for everyone that showed up. It's great to have such good running friends and comrades.

5 Miles 45 Minutes, lots of fun.

CC Path - 6 Miles

Ran the Cherry Creek Path bike route, 6 miles today.

Matt, Craig C and Alicia ran with me.

The footing was worse today, it was about the same temperature but no sun.
The roads between Cheesman and the Bike Path were really bad, we ran on the sidewalk mainly. Sketchy running in spots. The Bike Path was mostly clear except for the shadows around the bridges and trees.

Matt and Craig got ahead of us a bit and then took the short way back around 11th. We caught up to them but decided to go the 6. Good pace given the conditions.

I ran my 1600th mile at 8th and Franklin today. I'm a ways off my goal of 2000 miles with 2 days left. :)

Rest day tomorrow, yoga and maybe some weights.

6 Miles 47:43.

Wash Park 7

Ran the Wash Park 7 Mile route today with the group. Sunny with the temp around 30 at lunch. Surprisingly had a big group for the Monday after Christmas. 7 of us.

Downtown got less snow than out in the burbs, but it was still icy on side streets, in the parks and on some sidewalks and drives.

Dave and Scott went around Cheesman.

The rest of us 7 went to Wash Park. We started out easy due to the footing, but picked it up as we went. With Matt leading the charge most of the way. We ran out in 30 minutes (slow but due to conditions a decent pace). Ran back at 26 which was fast. Bob and Matt broke from the Pack. Jay decided to chase them down (like last week) so I hung with Jay. Andre right behind us. We caught them at 8th and then ran together a bit, till Matt and Jay broke away at Cheesman. I stayed with them, we were together again to Colfax and then Matt surged ahead. Jay and I were behind him a bit with Andre and Bob right behind us. We were going pretty fast down 16th, running in the road and some sidewalk. Too fast in places. I kept thinking about taking a bad step or tweaking my knee or ankle and what a setback that would be 16 weeks before Boston (yes 16 weeks from today). We all finished within a few seconds at the end. Now that it was over and we all "survived", great run!

I told the guys, it was 16 weeks to Boston, they asked if it was my first day of training. I said no, I'm on a 15 week plan. I said ask me next week and I'll be on a 14 week plan. :)

Craig C and Tom ran the route but were smart and ran a steady pace out and back.
I was surprised by Jay's endurance. He hasn't been running regular and not much with the group but he was strong the whole 7 miles. I thought he might fade but he finished strong.

7 Miles 56:42

10 Mile Long Run with Zach

Zach and I did a 10 mile long run today. Part of his half marathon training and a good fitness run for me. I was trying to decide between 10 miles on the treadmill at the rec center together or running outside with all the snow pack, powder and ice. I decided to get him some yak Trax and we'd run outside together, an out and back to Cherry Creek Park. We had about 8 inches over a 3 day period with little melting between.


We started from the house and ran with the yak trax on the snow packed road, they did great. We got on the sidewalk which had been plowed but was not clear and dry and then headed to the park via the old library. That stretch between Orchard and the Library was tough running, deep snow about 8 inches and not a lot of it packed down, light traffic, so we slowed down and it was endurance over pace. Once we got on the path it was better, and then there was a kid that made a nice shovel path from the apartments all the way to the park entrance which made for mostly smooth running. Thanks shovel kid whoever you are.

Once in the park it was packed down, but not smooth. We stayed on the path through the bridge and then toward the marina. At about 3 1/2 miles a truck plow passed us going the other way plowing the path. That removed most of the snow. We kept the trax on. When we got across the road, the path was deep with snow and not very runnable, so we switched to the snow packed road, which was really good running with the yak trax. We had a good pace going as we made our way up the road uphill the last 1/2 mile to the 5 mile turn around point.

We stopped for water and gu, Zach was doing great. Sun was shining, great view of the mountains and the park.

When we headed back, it was so nice running on the road, I told him we should take Jordan road back to the Path. Just before we got to the Road my Garmin flaked out on me. Started beeping and flashing screens and I could not get back to the stop watch screen. After a few minutes it finally responded. I am not sure what happened. So we ran back Jordan Road to the path. Since this cuts the route some, we did an extra out and back on the west side of the road before we got back on the path, a bit too much out because we ended up at 10.1 instead of 10.

When we got back to the path, the plow had been through about 30 minutes ago so it was drying out. We took off the yak trax and secured them (me to my belt, Zach on his elbows) and ran without. We got our pace back down to an 8 minute mile through to the end of the park. We had a bout 2 miles to go, we ran on the shovel kids snow pack without trax, then we had a bout a 1/2 mile of powder, where we toughed it out without yak trax. That was a tough stretch and we really slowed down, but again good endurance.

The last mile we ran on the road then on the sidewalk on the sunny side which was dry back to the house. Zach had a really nice kick at the end and I kicked a bit but let him go. He did great. It was a fun father son run in the Colorado Sun with Snow all around.

10.1 Miles in 1:33:31. A 9:14 pace overall, but we ranged between 8 and 11 due to the snow and traction at various sections.

Garmin Watch Data for Run

A Runner's Christmas

We had a white Christmas in Denver this year. It snowed the 23rd, 24th and 25th. Got about 8 inches at the house. I decided to take 4 days off running in a row to recharge and rest up and enjoy the holidays. One final rest before I start a 15 week Boston Training plan.

My family knows what makes me happy and that's running. Well one of the things that helps to make me happy. So for Christmas I got lot's of running stuff, here's a list.

• Aasics Running Tights with zippered pockets.


• St. George Marathon framed finish photos 2 one running, one with medal.


• 3 Running books, Running with the Buffaloes, Chi Running and Into Thin Air (not a running book but endurance and inspirational).
  
• Red Feather Racing Snow Shoes R700, black.

Thanks family for a great christmas.

Here are the St. George Pics that I got framed as a present.

Below is a video of me testing out the snowshoes on Christmas day in our back yard wearing my new Aasics tights also.

.

Cherry Creek Bike Path - 6

Ran the Cherry Creek Bike Path Route today. Change in the weather on the way, maybe a white Christmas...

Temperature in the 40's with clouds.

Jeff, Alicia, Jay and Craig M ran also. Good pace.

6 Miles 48:10

Wash Park 7 - Catch Me if You Can

Ran the wash park 7 mile route today with the group. Nice day, sunny in the 50's.
Big Group too...
Dave C, Matt, Jay, Craig C, Chipman, Jeff, Pete C, Bob B and Tom.

We ran together to Cheesman at about the normal pace, but the group was staggered which is rare. The group split up at Cheesman then again at the Bike path. Leaving, Matt, Chipman, Jeff, Bob, Jay and myself.

Then Matt and Chipman picked up the pace and pulled away. Jeff, Bob , Jay and myself kept the normal pace. We got to the turn around point and Matt and Dave were about 2 blocks ahead of us and going strong.

As we started running back Jeff said, you want to try to catch those guys? Jay and Bob wanted to and I wasn't going to run alone, so we picked up the pace to a sub 7 mile. We started gaining on them. They had no idea, they were just running up tempo a bit and chatting.

We were within a block at Speer and then light turned, they made it through on both lights, but we got stopped. So that gives them another 45 seconds. Jeff and Bob took off, determined to catch them by 8th and Franklin. Jay and I started with them at about a 6:30 pace then faded off. I had run a 10k on Saturday and really didn't want a speed workout, so I stayed with Jay.

Bob and Jeff caught them at 8th and Franklin (although they missed a turn). Jay and I were about a half block back when they took off again.

We coasted a bit, then surged as we were within a block at Colfax, but we got caught at the light. They must have really taken off from there because we didn't see them until we got to the Y and we were running about a 7 minute mile pace.

Fun run, different, playing the chase game like that. Maybe next time I'll be the rabbit.
In the locker room some of the runners that went shorter were wondering why we didn't all come back together. Apparently Matt and Bob finished ahead of Jeff and Chipman, then Jay and I.

7 Miles 52 Minutes

Rudolph's Revenge 10K

Zach and I ran the Rudolph's Revenge 10K Race today at Chattfield. At 10 am.

I set a goal for us of 43 minutes, which is a 7 minute mile pace. Aggressive, but something to shoot for. Zach said he'd try to hang with me at that pace. This is only his 2nd 10k, running cross country 5k's, it's a different race where discipline and pace is important as well as stamina.


We got there early about 9:00 which is good because the parking lot fills up and you have to park a half mile away if you don't. It was cold but sunny and getting warmer. We registered, picked up our bibs and timing chips and sat in the car near the start. About 7 minutes before race we got out and jogged over to the start, it was 32 degrees. We had shorts LS shirts and gloves. The start was kinda strange, a bunch of people started running and we followed. Some guy apparently just said go. No loud speaker, horn or gun. Just go.


It was crowded at the start as Zach and I jockeyed around to find holes and get up to a 7 minute pace. They mix the 5k and 10k runners at the start and split them off at 1.6 miles. Running on the road, about a 1/2 mile before we got in a good pace. 6:50 side by side on a beautiful day, me and my sun racing. It was fun, near perfection!

Mile 1 was 7:06 due to the slow start, but a good mile.
Mile 2 goes down hill, the 5k runners split off half way and it curves around to the bridge. Zach was feeling it a bit. I dropped back a couple of times to keep him on pace, not push him too hard but enough. 7:13 we dropped off pace a bit.
Mile 3 goes uphill for a ways and we were running into the wind about 15 mph. I told Zach to charge the hill and he did, ahead of me. You turn into the bike path and a water stop on the turn. We both blew past it. We saw the first 10k runner heading back down. It was and out and back on this section. A couple of rolling hills and then a steep hill to the turn around. We were together but he was fading a bit. Just before the turn around is a steep uphill on the bike path and the 3 mile marker. 7:09 that mile.
Mile 4 Zach faded a bit on this one coming back. I dropped back a couple of times to get him on pace. But didn't want to push him too much, just encourage. As we passed the throngs heading up the hills on the out and back. I decided to let him run his race from here and I focused on finishing strong under a 7 minute mile pace. I looked back a couple of times and he was about a minute back but looking good. 7:20 our slowest mile.

Mile 5. I picked up the pace and started picking runners off. There were some good runners ahead, some were putting distance on me, but I was picking several off. Cross the bridge a lady was in front of me. On the path part of the bridge it was very icy with only a narrow edge for running. Snow packed with foot prints. She slipped and caught herself as did I. I passed her shortly after we said hi, good race. She reminded me of the lady I met at St. George from Evergreen. Said hi again after the race, I almost asked her if she did St. George but didn't. Mile 5 6:56.

Mile 6 Nice downhill stretch, with some uphills, can see the finish parking lot and started passing the end of the 5k runners/walkers. Narrow path, but it felt like I was flying going past them. I picked off a few runners, one guy I really wanted to catch was holding off from me, never did catch him. Wondered how far back Zach was, but didn't turn around to look. 6:46

Finish Little hill before the finish, but lots of spectators. Finished Strong, probably should have kicked harder, but no injury for me today.
44:12. About a minute over my goal, but I felt good and ran the race comfortably the whole way.

Looked for Zach at the finish and started jogging back up the hill off the path. Saw a young guy running hard but it wasn't Zach, then right behind him there was Zach running hard. I looked at the clock and told him he could beat 45:30 and he did 45:25. 3 Minutes off his Boulder Bolder PR.

After the race we grabbed some water, I told him I didn't see many runners 19 or under ahead of him on the out and back so he might have a chance for placing in his age group.

We went back to the car and got our sweats and then checked the 10k results and he placed 2nd in his age group. 1st place guy was the kid I saw just ahead of him, Zach said he had just passed him, that kid was 18. I finished 5th in my age group about 10 runners ahead of Zach overall.

We stayed and he got his award and a couple of pictures. What a great day. So much fun. Way to go Zach!


Zach and me Post Race


Zach getting his 2nd Place award for his age group 19 and under.
It was a coffee cup.

Garmin Watch Data for Race

Race Results

City Park Duck Pond 5

Ran the City Park Duck Pond 5 Mile run today.

Good Group. Jay, Matt, Craig C, Alicia, Andre and myself.

Matt ran, his first run since Tucson. Hadn't seen Jay or Alicia in a while.

We ran easy and walked the pond per tradition. Except for 7 mile Andre who went around the golf course.

Little cooler today, 40 with clouds.

Garmin Watch Data for Run

5 Miles 42:53

Wash Park 7

Ran the Wash Park 7 mile run today with the group. 3rd Wash Park run this week for me.

No middle 3 for me today, saving my legs for the 10k on Saturday.
Craig and Jeff did a Middle 3. Chipman ran a backwards middle 3.5 through Cheesman.
Jeff pulled up with a calf issue after a mile.

Andre, Bob and I ran normal pace. Maybe picked it up a bit the last mile.
Nice day, 50, short sleeves. Kinda windy coming back.

7 Miles 57 minutes.

Around Wash Park 9.5

Ran from the Y around Wash Park at lunch. 9.5 Miles, a rare route for lunch, haven't run that one since March before Moab 2009.

I wanted to make up for my missed 9 miler on Sunday. Tom and Andre ran to the edge of the park with me (7 mile turn around point), then I did a lap around the park and back to the Y on my own.

Felt good, nice day, 50's, a little bit of wind. No knee issues, still slick on the paths in the shade.

I forgot to start my Garmin after the Colfax light on the way back, so it's a mile short.

9.5 Miles 1:17:06

Garmin Watch Data Minus 1 Mile

Wash Park 7

Ran the Wash Park 7 mile run with the group at lunch today. It was a nice day and a good run. 50's with Sun and no wind, short sleeves.

Tom, Craig C, Jeff and I ran to Wash Park and back 7 Miles. Pete and Dave did Cheesman. Dave's in great shape for Bridge playing these days. He got 18th in the national tournament. Craig had all kinds of problems today, nose bleed (grabbed some snow and then some leaves) and calf cramping. We had to wait for him a couple of times. I told him he was falling apart, he told me "You're one to talk". Ha he's right, but that's all behind me now right?

I wore my Moab shirt and hat, I got into the Moab via Lottery yesterday. 9 of us from the group are signed up for 2010 (Sharon, Alicia, Tom, Craig, Bob B, Jeff, Steve C, Scott and myself).

We discussed Moab and who was in, some of the guys had to buy their way in with the $100 charity entries.

Also talked about this weekends Marathon's. Tucson. Jill ran a 3:46:00 taking 19 seconds off her PR. Way to go Jill!Matt had a tough day and had a DNF at mile 19 due to cramping and other issues. Gina's boss Erin did 3:50 at Dallas White
Rock, her first Marathon. Way to go Erin!

I skipped my long run yesterday. Too windy and no motivation. Plus I tweaked my knee again scraping the ice on Saturday and it hurt the next day, so I took the day off. Only so many more "easy weekends" left in 2009. The knee was good today, so I think it was a wise choice. Only got in 4 days last week though.


7 Miles 55 Minutes.



Garmin Watch Data for Run

5 Easy with the Dogs

Ran 5 Miles with the dogs in the dog park today. Easy run. Dogs loved it, had fun.

The park wasn't crowded due to the snow and cold. It was nice though, the roads and paths were snow packed. Which made for good easy running. No Yak Traxs.

Lucy flew through the bushes and in the water, on the ice. She really loves it. She was a mess though, I had to give her a bath after.

Zach ran 9 miles with his CC Coach Manley today at Highline, they had a good run, but it looks like I'm on my own for a long run tomorrow.

5 Miles

City Park Duck Pond 5

Ran the duck pond run today with Craig M and Bob B. It was nicer out, 30's with sun so I wore shorts.

Nice Run a good pace. The park roads and trails were snow packed.

First time Bob did this route with us, he usually doesn't run with us on Fridays. We didn't walk the duck pond per our tradition.

5 Miles 41:30

Wash Park 7

Yeah, I ran outside, it was nice (relatively speaking). 32 or so but the sun felt so good, felt good to be outside running again (aside from Sunday).

Jeff, Craig, Jay and I did the Wash park 7 route. Matt ran with us to the end of Chessman, he was doing 4 today easy with the Tucson Marathon for Sunday. Scott started with us but went to City Park for an up tempo run. None of us wanted any part of that, so off to Wash park we went.

It was slick in spots on the side roads mainly, a few bad spots on the sidewalks but runnable. The traction did slow us down some. Was nice to have a group run with some of the regulars. I wore gloves, tights a short sleeve and long sleeve wicking shirt, was perfect for those conditions.

7 Miles 56 Minutes give or take(messed up my Garmin)

Yoga

Went to the Y at 12 for the 12:30 Yoga class, and some cardio before on the new equptment. They were still working on the new machine setup so the upstairs was closed no cario or weights. So George, Paul and I stretched out a bit in the open lobby area upstairs. Wasn't much else to do there, a lot of people left.

Anyway, the 12:30 Yoga class had a substitute. I think her name was Princess, but not sure, could not get a straight answer from anyone after the class, some thought her name was Princess. The class was much more relaxing and less athletic and technical than Susan's class. As one guy put it less torturous than Susan, but he liked the torture. I was ready for an easy day. So it was perfect.

Knee seems to be getting better, finally.

Sun was out today, warming up some, but still cold (6 degrees yikes).

Should be able to run at lunch tomorrow and I'm ready for a nice run outside.

1 hour of yoga.

Treadmill Intervals at the Y - 6.5

I haven't run on a treadmill at all in 2009 until today. It was 3 degrees, icy, snow, slushy and I didn't have enough layers to keep me warm. So I ran on the treadmill today. The Y had plenty to spare. In fact they are replacing all the cardio equipment this afternoon. I though maybe I'd try to wear one out since they were replacing it anyway.

As I walked to the Y I debated with myself weather to run outside, skip my run today or do a quality treadmill workout. With the cold and the knee and a rest day yesterday, treadmill was the winner. It wasn't like I had a goal NOT to run on a treadmill in 2009, it just happened that way and a streak is a streak. I really don't like running on the treadmill, so boring I find myself counting the seconds and hundredths of miles going by. Intervals or tempo work make it more bearable, as does someone to talk to or a game to watch. I don't like to go as fast on the treadmill as the track though. I don't like going over 10 MPH for very long. Doesn't feel safe. Plus I make a lot of noise and it really pounds the gym when I get cranking.

I grabbed a treadmill next to Doug and we chatted a bit, he runs a lot but short and rarely with our group. Then Matt got the one next to me, he was doing 4X400 intervals as part of his Tucson Marathon taper. I did 5 X 800 @ 3:20 with a 800 recovery at an 8:00 pace. I decided to do a 400 at the end just because.

5X800 @ 3:20, 1X400 @ 90
6.5 Miles 49:30,

CC Park Blizzard Run - 5 Miles

Ran an out and back at Cherry Creek Park today. It was cold 17 degrees. About an inch of fresh snow when I started about 9:45, but snowing pretty good. The wind was out of the North West.

I bought some Yak Trax on Friday Night and wanted to test them out, this was good weather for that.
http://www.yaktrax.com/ProductsPro.aspx

I started at the old Library toward CC Park. The first half mile was OK, protected, then when you get to the open park, the wind/snow was brutal. Wind Chill was probably around 0.

I wore tights, wool gloves, 2 long sleeve wicking shirts and an outer shell. A running cap and some ear muffs. I needed some protection for my face, it got really cold and froze to my facial hair. I need to find something I can run with that keeps my face warm but allows me to breathe.
I ran an out and back, so coming back was better, no wind in the face, felt good.

The Yax Trax did really well, I was impressed. I wore them over my trail shoes. They were easy to put on and adjust (got mediums for my size 10 1/2). This was a good run to test them out in addition to the fresh snow, there were parts that had ice and I also ran on some trail. They performed well in all. Some parts of the snow were deeper 4 inches or so and the yaktrax handled that with no problem. I could run an 8 minute mile on the powder without slipping or losing traction. I didn't have any long stretches of ice, that would have been a good test too. I ran on the bike path, then jumped to a double track trail, that turned into a single track trail. Uphill and downhill, YakTrax did great.

The only part I didn't like them was when the snow was thin or under bridges running on concrete without any snow. It felt strange and I imagine it would were them out if you ran very far like that. Running Back looking at my tracks, the YakTrax in the snow look really cool, with the 3 x's in the show print.

So overall big thumbs up for Yak Trax, hopefully it will allow me to train through the winter on days like this for Boston without having to hit the hamster wheel (aka Treadmill).

Slow Pace but 5 miles of snow running, low impact. Knee felt better, probably not the best thing to run on it with.

Garmin Data for Run

CC Park 8 Miles

Ran 8 miles today with Zach, his half marathon training long run for the week. We did a loop through Cherry Creek Park, nice route. We left about 1:30, it was starting to get cloudy and windy. The temperature was in the mid 30's.

The footing was kinda slick in spots, especially the shade.

We cut through the woods on the trail, it was snow packed, but not bad.

At 5 miles we stopped and took a gu and water break. Trying to get Zach used to taking GU for longer runs. He did OK, but made some faces, said his stomach was a bit queezy. Later he said he felt a pick up from it.

He did good. We did about an 8:20 pace the first 5 miles then slowed down on the 2 miles of hills coming back, cut through the estates and ended up with 8.1 miles, he had a good kick coming down our street at the end, so he had something left in the tan. Phoenix Half marathon is 6 weeks away.

He was scheduled to run 3 today and 8 tomorrow, but we switched days because the weather is supposed to turn tomorrow and be sub 20 degrees with 3-5 inches of snow.

8.1 Miles 1:08:45.

Garmin Watch Data for Run

Duck Pond 5

Ran the duck pond 5 mile city park route today.It was still cold, 25 but the sun was out, and I was ready to run after a 2 day layoff.

Only Craig M and Scott showed up to run today.

I wore tights, 2 long sleeve wicking shirts, gloves and ear warmers. It was perfect.
Quick pace with Scott, we did the run in 38:40, about 3 minutes ahead of our group average.

In the small running world category today, I met a guy on the way back to the Y who was running with another group, he had done St. George 2009, we both had on the same shirt. He did 3:35, I'll have to look him up by time, didn't catch his name. We chatted a bit, he runs out of a building that's at 16th and Grant.

Rest Day with Yoga

Cold and Snow here in Denver, not a lot of snow, but enough to mess up traffic and running footing. It's my rest day anyway, the knee thing keeps hanging around and I need to give it a rest.

Massage last night was great. I had a lot of sore running muscles despite my easy running schedule and minimal speed work. Tara worked on the knee a bit, the muscles around it and the ligaments. That felt good. Knee felt better

I went to Yoga at lunch. Good class, but the room was blazing hot, dry heat so really dehydrates you quick. Knee felt better after that too. I think siting at my desk is the worse thing for it, but that's what I have to do to make a living so...

Zach is staying on his half marathon schedule and went to the track after school and did 7 X 400's in 20 degree weather. Nice Job Zach!

Congress Park 5

Ran the Congress Park route today. Most of it by myself.

I started with Scott from the Y, then he wanted to do a tempo run through City Park. I didn't want any part of that so we separated at Park Ave and 16th. We were on a good pace as it was, but his up tempo Pace is about my 5k Race Pace so he took it up from there.

I ran through Cheesman and into the Wash Park route by myself. My knee was hurting this morning and was slowly loosening up. First lunch run in a while where it was just me. Nice day, in the 50's with clouds, but a change in the weather is on the way...

As I ran past Congress, the botanic gardens and back into Cheesman on the east end, it felt better. When I turned into Cheesman, I saw Chris charging up the hill to my left. He was doing Cheesman 1/2 mile intervals. We said hey as he charged past doing about a 2:50 pace. He waited for me at the end of the interval and we ran back to the Y easy.

5 Miles + 42:27

Massage with Tara tonight

Wash Park 7

Ran the Wash Park 7 Mile route today with the group. It was a nice sunny day, 60 degrees at the Colfax Bank Clock on the way back. Shorts and Short Sleeve Shirt.

Big group today. 10 of us. We split up at the Congress Route Junction (7th and Franklin). Bob, Andre, Jeff, Tom, Craig M and myself went to wash park.

Bob and Andre set a pretty brisk pace. I messed up my Garmin a couple of times, but pace wise we were running 7 - 7:30 quite a bit and dipped below 7 on the home stretch. A good push for an easy day.

Knee is still nagging me, but it felt better once I got running. I think sitting at my desk is the worst for it. I'm going to run on it, at least while the weather is nice. Discouraging coming off an easy week last week, with 3 full days rest and still not 100%.

On the bright side, I weighed in at the Y today and I survived the 4 day thanksgiving weekend fest without gaining any weight despite not running 3 of the 4 days. That was a pleasant suprise on a back to the real world monday.

7 Miles 54 Minutes.

3 Days, no Running

I took the last 3 days off, after the turkey trot race. My Right Knee was sore and I think the only way to recover is to rest it. So even though the weather here was great for running and I had a long weekend from work, I refrained from running. Just dog walks , icing and stretching. Did some stuff around the house, worked on computers (Brittany's) and watched some Movies with Zach. Zach ran and is staying on his schedule.

Feels better today, can still feel that MCL though. Hope to get back on schedule tomorrow...

Turkey Trot 2009

Ran the 4 mile Denver Turkey Trot today. 26:14. About 50 seconds slower than last year.

It was a great day for it. Probably the best ever. Temperatures in the 50's then up to 60 after the race. Blue Skies. Tons of people, very festive.

Zach and I left at 8:30, picked up Tanner and got there about 9:00. Got our race stuff and then waited for Gina, Brittany, Lisa and Greg to arrive with the Dogs. When they got there we walked around a bit and took this pre race photo, below...

2009 Turkey Trot Pre-Race Photo
Greg, Gina, Zach, Tanner, Lisa, Dennis, Brittany
Rosy, Hercules, Foster, Levi and Lucy

We separated, I jogged to the porta-pottis at the finish becasue the lines at the start were huge and wrapped around the parking lot. As I jogged my knee was hurting, I was thinking it needs to loosen up and get some blood flowing so I can race.

It warmed up quick so I ran back to the car and changed into a tank top, shorts and ditched my gloves. A turkey trot in Denver in a tank top. Yes! I got in line near the start of the race and looked around for any friends. I saw Craig and Tom and Craig's son Ben. They pointed out Zach and Tanner to me who were on the other about the same row we waved. Then Lisa and Lauren Mills came up and we chatted and I introduced them. Lisa said Bill was at the very start and was going fast. Saw Bob Basse there too, a few rows ahead of me.

The race started and it took about a quarter mile to weave through and get into a good pace. I can't remember the last time I bumped into so many runners at the start. Just about the time I got on pace around 6:30. I passed by Zach and he said Hey Dad. I was wondering if he was going to push and stay with me and out kick me at the end. As it turned out, he met up with Tanner and took it up tempo but not hard. 29:13. So I guess I'm still king of the house for now.

I got into an OK pace, but not as fast as I wanted. I had my Garmin and really wanted to be in the 6:15 range to be under 25:00 for the race. But I just could not push it there today. No excuses, my legs were tight (from Yoga I think, no more Yoga before a race), my knee felt fine. I could see Bob Basse ahead of me pretty much the whole way. Always about 100 meters/ 20 seconds ahead. At times he would get farther ahead and I'd close the gap. Mile 1 was about right 6:13 pace, Mile 2 was slow, 6:44. Missed the Mile 3 marker, but the last 2 miles were 6:34 average, which was my average pace for the race.

It was good I had Lisa, Craig, Tom and Zach behind me and Bob in front. Kept me focused and prevented me from dropping into an easy pace. I finished ok, not as strong as I should have. I was breathing pretty hard at the finish as was a lady next to me. I tried to get Bob's attention, he finsihed about 25 seconds ahead of me, but he was headed back on course to run with his daughters I think. Bob finished 1 second behind Bill Mills, but I don't think they know each other. So I grabbed a water and turned around to see who would finish behind me.

Lisa and Lauren were about a minute behind me, was talking to them when I saw the rest of the group. Followed by Zach and Tanner. They had finsihed together holding hands for a joke. I told them it wouldn't be so funny if they made the front page of the paper like that.

Here's a web post of how our prostates group did this year.

Pickled Prostates Results

After the race, we chatted a bit, then hit the Schwag lines and got separated. I told everyone I'd meet them at the beer garden so after I got a bag full of goodies, some drinks and some food. I headed over, where it was empty and there were tables of Michelob Ultra waiting. It was a nice big area with sun, at one end you could see the race course as it came down Franklin and then up the park road next to the garden. I tried to find Gina, Brittany and the pack, but couldn't spot them. I walked around and found Tom, we chatted, then he had to go.

The Beer Garden was filling up quick and lines were forming. I got to the edge and spotted everyone in the park with the dogs. They came over and talked on the other side of the little barrier fence, the dogs (5 of them) attracted lots of attention and comments. I'd have to say Herculese gets the most attention, he is so big and soft and gentle. Eventually Lisa and Greg and Rosy the dog, came into the beer garden and had a beer with me. By the time they got in, got in line for a beer and made there way over to where I was, it was about time to go. Gina was ready to get home and finish cooking. It was approaching 11:30. So we finished our beers, jumped the fence with Rosy and walked back to the cars. Got home about 12:15.

Garmin Watch Data for Race

Fun Day. I love thanksgiving and I love Running. So Turkey Trot is one of my Faves, no matter what. Good Friends and Good fun.

2009 Turkey Trot Results

Yoga Cross Train Rest

Rested for the race tomorrow. Went to the Y and cross trained on a bike and rowed a few minutes in each. Both of them irritated my knee somewhat, but warmed it up for Yoga. Yoga was good, had a substitute though, Terry.

Turkey Trot tomorrow, last years time was 25:27 a PR, but my goal was and is sub 25.

Will I make it this year? Will Zach beat me for the first time in a race?

Tune in tomorrow...

Cherry Creek Bike Path 6 Miles

Ran the Cherry creek bike path at lunch.
Knee was better today, felt better after running too. Weird

Nice day, a little cool.

Jay, Dave, Scott and Alicia ran with me.

6 Miles 49:59

Garmin Watch Data

Take a Knee, do some Yoga

I did Yoga today instead of my usual Monday run with the group, which usually helps me through a Monday.

I ran hard this weekend and did almost 20 miles.
I woke up this morning and my Right Knee, the one I tweaked a couple of times running on the snow and ice, was hurting and sore.
I drove to work and it was so stiff and sore I limped getting out of the car.
Then sitting at my desk and at a staff meeting it got worse and worse.

So I went to an 11:30 yoga class. Susan's Yoga for Athletes. I backed off some of the leg poses where I thought it stressed my knee. Overall after yoga and walking back it felt good.

Not sure what me schedule is for this week. This knee thing keeps nagging me and rest helps a lot. I have the Turkey Trot race on Thursday, that's the only definate.

I looked it up online and I think its a Grade 1 MCL strain
http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/front/knee/medialligament.htm

Or a Medial Miniscus strain
http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/front/knee/medialmeniscus.htm

There's some cool video links to test it out. The Midiscus one looks painful.

Both of them say to RICE it and not train. I've been RICEing when it bugs me, but the not train is what gets me every time.

Gotta Run..
Dennis

Sloan's Lake - Downtown and Back 7.5 Miles

Zach and I met Matt at Sloan's lake this morning to join him on part of his last Long Run before the Tucson Marathon. I had Zach scheduled for a 7 mile long run today and Matt was running later in the morning, so it worked out. We drove out to Sloan's lake, stopped to buy a G2 orange Gatorade for Matt and got there around 11. Lots of runners on the lake. We parked by the north bathrooms and waited for Matt. My right knee (the tweaker) was sore from yesterday's 11 mile uphill and downhill run. Zach had lost some conditioning since Cross Country, so i decided rather than run back to Matt's house and have him drive us back we would run 3.5 miles and turn around and run back.

We got there early and saw Matt on his first lap, he said he was going too fast but felt good. There were a lot of runners on the lake, but I'd have to say he was the fastest by far, he looked great 13 miles into a 20 miler.
It was 2.5 miles around the lake, so we were ready when he came by again. He filled his water bottle with the Gatorade I brought.

Zach and I ran 3.75 miles with Matt at his pace which was pretty fast. 7:15 on the flat parts. We went along Sloan's lake then through the neighborhood down to By REI, Confluence Park and then up the Bike Path to Stout, where we turned around. He was getting faster, 6:49 as we headed up hill on the bike path, so I was glad to turn around and slow down a bit on the way back. Pretty sure Zach was too.

Matt said he was going to "Pick it up" the last 3 miles.
It's uphill on the way back. As we got near Federal, there was a lot of Bronco game tailgating, traffic and crowds, but kinda cool to run through that atmosphere. Zach really liked the route, different from the usual runs. We ended up averaging an 8:03 pace

7.5 Miles 1:00:34

Garmin Data for Run

Idaho Springs to Downieville and Back - 11 Miles

Ran from Idaho Springs UP to Downieville and then back down to Idaho Springs.

Jill wanted to run 15 today downhill to prepare for her Tucson Marathon in 3 weeks. I dropped her off at Silverplume and then drove down to Idaho Springs, parked at Beau Jeaus (Pizza) and ran from there. It's about 700 feet elevation gain. over 6 Miles.

The frontage road was icy in the shady spots and there was a head wind going uphill. But it was runnable, didn't see any other runners though.

I was almost to the Conoco at Downieville, where I was to take a break and meet Jill for the trip down, but she had already stopped and was headed back down. I had plenty of water and was at 5.75 miles so I turned around and we ran down together at her pace.

She had a good pace going, it felt good to be going downhill on the sunny side of the road and with the wind to my back.

Jill really picked it up the last mile, it was a great pace and she was running strong. I think she is going to do well in Tucson.


11 Miles 1:37:45
Garmin Watch Data for Run

Middle 3

Ran the Middle 3 Today... 18:33. My goal was 18:30. Missed by a few seconds. Was on pace for 18:30 but waited too long to kick at the end.

Good group today. 6 Middle 3 runners

Matt, Dennis, Chipman, Craig/Tom and Tim the new guy who didn't know what we were doing, now he knows.

Alicia and Craig C ran easy to the Park and back.
Jay tapered for the Saturday Brighton Turkey Trot.

It was fun to watch Craig and Tom sprint at the end trying to finish ahead of the other, just like the old days (or last summer). I'll call it a draw but give Craig the first mention due to seniority.

Great day for it, temps in the upper 40's with sun. Had to run on the road cause the trail had ice and mud. I felt good, had a couple of traffic stops that helped. Thought I was running slow compared to Matt who pulled away from me and kept putting distance between us. Turns out he was running fast, real fast...


Congrats to Matt (pictured above), he did 17:06 today at the Middle 3. Taking 30 seconds off his PR. He is in peak shape being just over 3 weeks from his Tuscon Marathon. I plan on joining him for part of his last long run on Sunday.


Garmin Watch Data from the Middle 3

Cherry Creek Bike Path 6

Ran the Cherry Creek bike path at lunch today. 6 Miles. Only person to show up today was Caprera, where was everyone?. We ran pretty slow and easy. A lot of snow melted and it was around 50 with sun. Back to short sleeves.

My tweaked knee was OK, I could run easy on it no problem. Sitting at work makes it stiff and sore. Hoping a rest day will help. That and some Ice. I'm not even training yet and I'm already icing stuff.

6 Miles 50:30

Wash Park 7

Ran the Wash Park 7 mile route with the group at lunch today. Felt good to get out and run after another weekend snow storm. No running for me this weekend. Decided to rest the legs and knees, would not have gotten any quality on Sunday with the snow, about 6 inches on the roads and sidewalk.

Sun was out today, but there were some slick spots and some puddles as it started to melt. Very cold in the morning, around 32 when we started running at noon. I wore shorts, gloves and 2 shirts (1 short, 1 long sleeve). I was comfortable once we were running, especially in the sun.

Good group today. Jeff, Craig, Bob and I went to Wash Park and back at a good pace. The other guys (Matt, Tom and Andre) ran Cheesman. We ran on the path street, sidewalk, whatever to find good footing. On the way back at Cheesman I planted my right foot on a snow bank to avoid a puddle and went through the snow to a puddle below. Tweaked that right knee again, the one I rested and was feeling better today... It's OK but will probably nag me for another week or so.

7 Miles 52:41

Zach's Cross Country banquet was tonight, it was fun. He did a video for the team and there were about 50 kids there from the team. They talked about each one, with a picture. Manley gave a mention to the Pickled Prostates when Zach was up there. They said they saw Zach out running after the season, because he's training for Phoenix Half. Manley gave all the kids the book "Born to Run", which I am currently reading.

City Park - Duck Pond - 5

Ran the Friday Duck Pond run today with the guys. Craig M and Tim (new guy) ran with me. Matt joined us at the duck pond after leaving the Y late.

Temp in the 40's with clouds, not too bad. Weather is supposed to change for the weekend though. Planning to do a trail run with some of the group on Sunday if the weather is ok.

Garmin Watch Data

5 Miles 41 Minutes

Middle 3

Ran the middle 3 today, 18:53. A few seconds slower than last week, but I'm OK with it. I think the track work this week was counter productive for a good middle 3 time this week. Plus it was hot again 75 with sun. Tom and Jay ran it with me, we all took off our shirts. They did good.

We ran back easy, then picked it up at the end. I really picked it up the last quarter, trying to get in 4 mile race shape for the Turkey Trot.

Funny, I looked at my 2008 log and I ran the same exact middle 3 time a year ago this went. I was training for the Dallas White Rock Marathon also. Then I did 25:27 in the Turkey Trot, would like to go under 25 this year. I plan to push the middle 3 really hard next week and no track work, we will see.

Garmin Watch Data for the Middle 3

7 Miles 51 Minutes (3 at temp 18:53)

Manual HS Track

Went to the Manual HS Track today with the group. I wanted to do 5-6 miles normal pace, but we had a big group (*) and about half wanted to go to the track. Jay pushed us over the edge so we went. I was just going to run easy around the track, but ended up doing 2X400 (74-78) and 1 800 @ 2:59. I didn't have my track watch, had my Garmin and it wasn't set up for intervals, so I had no idea how fast I was doing them other than mile pace which isn't very good for shorter intervals.

I didn't want to do 2 speed workouts yet, but at least it was a short one, so should be good for middle 3 with a rest day tomorrow. My knee thing came back this morning, feels like it's a bit hyper extended and swollen. It's worse when I'm sitting at my desk with my legs bent and get up to walk around.

It turned out to be a nice day and a good workout with a good group.
On the way back, I mentioned something about a book I'm reading "Born to Run", turns out half the group was either reading it, or had just finished it. Scott was in Leadville, during one of the races talked about in the book.

6 Miles with 1 mile of Speed work

Garmin Watch Data for Workout (stopped my Garmin about 1.2 miles short of the Y).

Wash Park 7

Ran the Wash Park 7 today with the group at lunch.
Started with a good group (7 runners), but it was only Tom, Bob and myself that did the 7 miles out and back.
We ran an easy pace with the group to Cheesman, then pretty easy to the turn around, then picked it up a bit on the way back. The last mile was at about a 7 minute pace. It was impressive to watch Bob run ON the curb at that pace. On the way out, he took a little spill on the street, he was OK though.

Nice day in the 50's, mostly sunny.

I had something weird in my right knee this morning, walking around at work. Felt like it was twisted a bit. I thought about taking the day off, but felt like running otherwise, so I ran and it worked itself out. Sometimes it's good to run to get the kinks out.

7 Miles 53 Minutes

Waterton Canyon 12.5

Ran Waterton Canyon this morning from the Parking Lot up to the Dam and back. 12.5 miles on my Garmin. Left at 9. Took 1:48:10. 55 Out and 52 Back.

Alicia and I ran it. It was a bit chilly at the start, with clouds (40 degrees). Once we got in the canyon, there was a head wind, not real strong, but enough to notice. The canyon caused a wind tunnel effect in some spots. I had a long sleeve shirt over a short sleeve and gloves with shorts. We stopped a couple of times for gu or equitpment adjustment or to use the porta potti.

Got into a good pace on the way back, the sun came out, downhill, it was fun. Saw some Big Horn sheep. Picked it up the last mile back to the parking lot.

Lots of runners out today, some bikers and hikers, but lots of runners. We ran an easy pace. Alicia saw some of her triathlon competitors, 3 ladys who were running fast ahead of us then on the way back.

Here's my Gramin data but it lost signal a few times and probably gave me too much mileage looking at the data on the map.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/18341624

Duck Pond 5

Ran the city park duck pond route today with the group. Nice day, in the 70's again. So nice Jay and I both took off our shirts to get some November sun.

Craig M, Andre, Jay, George and Tom ran today.
Craig and Jay were late so they met us on the other side of the pond.

Andre pulled up with a calf problem. He had one the other day too, but different calf. He walked back after a mile and a half. He thinks it's dehydration from malaria medication he was taking when he went to Peru and the Amazon.

Easy run, I was ready for an easy day after the middle 3 yesterday.

I signed Zach and I up for the Phoenix Half Marathon January 17th, 2010. 10 weeks away.

5 Miles 43 minutes

Middle 3

Ran the Middle 3 today, our 7 mile run with a 3 mile tempo run in the middle. 18:46.

It was 7 weeks since my last middle 3, going back to September 17th, the week after the relay.
I lost about 30 seconds off where I was then, my best for the year is 17:57 in June and I have not been over 19 all year, so pretty consistent despite my injuries this year. 15 Middle 3's this year so far.

I did feel it though, my lungs were burning and I didn't have that race focus. I got 3 traffic stops which I needed.

It was a warm day, near 70. Craig C, Alicia and I ran the middle 3. Nobody else ran, although we saw Tom, Jay and Scott coming back from an early middle 3.

Alicia ran her first middle 3 today. She did great. Congratulations Alicia!

We ran back easy. It felt good to run a middle 3 after the marathon recovery period. I plan to do them until the turkey trot to get some speed back.

My Garmin was dead, so no Garmin data. My splits ranged from 2:55 to 3:14

7 Miles 50:46.

Dog Day Afternoon - Cheesman 5 Miles

Had another busy day at work, but the weather was so nice, I had to squeeze in a run. That and Gina and her sister Lisa were going to be at Cheesman Park at lunch for their weekly dog walk and I wanted to drop by and say hi. I had a 1:00 meeting and I barely got to the Y and changed out by 12. So the plan was a quick Cheesman 4 and hit the showers, change and back
to work by 1.
Good group at the Y today. Matt, Craig M, Dave C, Andre, George, Chipman and myself = 7.


I told Gina we might see her around 12:10 as we came running through from the northeast corner of the park on the path. Didn't see them for a while and thought maybe I'd miss them, but just after the porta potti there they were with the 5 dogs. I asked the guys if they wanted to meet my wife and the dogs and they said sure, so we stopped and I introduced
them and the dogs real quick.

I'd say Hercules made the biggest impression (Surprise). Lucy attracted Matt's
attention, he always wanted a Brittany and we talked about her when we got her. Lucy looked like she wanted to run, so I told Gina I'd take Lucy for a lap with the group and meet her back at the Northeast Corner of the park.


So I ran off with Lucy, pink leash in hand. She was trotting with the group, like it was normal. The guys made a few jokes and then we split at the usual corner. George, Chipman and myself went around the park with Lucy, the other guys did the bike path.
When I got to the end of the park at the meeting point Gina wasn't there and the clock was ticking on my meeting. George headed back to the Y and Chipman and I started another lap. He actually offered to take the dog and find them so I could get back, nice guy, but I couldn't do that.


I ran back to where they were before and they weren't there. Then I split with Chipman and headed through the middle of the park looking for them all around. 2 Ladies and 4 dogs are easy to spot (usually). I was starting to worry I might be in the park all afternoon looking for them, while my boss was at work fuming because I missed the 1:00 meeting.


I had never run on the middle grassy part, where the cemetery used to be. But you can see most of the park from there. I worked my way back to the original meeting corner and there they were. I handed off Lucy and looked at my watch. 20 minutes and it was a 10 minute run back to the Y.



They asked me to take a quick picture which I did and then I ran back
to the Y in 8 minutes, showered and made it to my 1:00 right on time.



Whew!

Herculese, Lucy, Gina, Levi, Rosy, Lisa and Foster

At Cheesman Park

Cherry Creek Bike Path - 6

Ran the cherry creek bike path today at lunch. 6 Miles, great day, temps in the 60's and sun. Ran in shorts and a tank top. What a difference a week makes.

Good group today, Jay, Craig C, Alicia, Tom, Scott and Me. Everyone split off, Craig, Alicia and I went down the bike path for 6. It was nice, a bit crowded with bikes and walkers.
One lady (rather large) yelled at Craig for not getting over when she said on your left and passed on a bike. Craig and Alicia yelled back. Funny

We saw Digger (the Rockies Mascot) on the way up the hill from the Y, as he was headed down. He pretended to run and then cowered in fear as we ran by, I gave him a high 5. That was a first.

Busy week at work this week. Lot of stuff going on, CEO, CTO and a VP in town for meetings. I could not get away yesterday and barely got out today (in fact I was late for a 1:00 meeting coming back from the Y). But it was good to get away and clear my head with a run and enjoy the day.

Hopefully I can get away over the next couple of days for at least a short run, since the weather is so nice.
6 Miles 49 minutes

Cherry Creek Park - 10 Mile out and Back

Ran a 10 mile out and back from my house to Cherry Creek State Park near the lake.

Got up to 60 today and sunny so 95% of the snow was melted off the sidewalks, streets and paths. A few bad spots where it is shady and some wet places, puddles and mud.

We ran later in the day. so it would melt/dry off the most. About 2:30, the day of the time change, so it gets dark around 5:30 now. The shadows and sunlight is different this time of day, this time of year.

Zach ran with me to about the 3 mile mark then turned back. We had an easy pace going, except when we had to slow down on the snow and ice. It was kinda fun.

I slowed down coming back up hill.

10 Miles 1:27

Garmin Data for Run