The Self-Proclaimed Runner

What wagon?

2011-04-14T12:46:00.001-06:00

For the month of March I had a goal to not have a soda. I was very successful, other than a questionable Coca-Cola Slurpee from 7-11. There was no intention of going off of soda. I just wanted to see if I could go a month without it. Last fall I did a similar experiment and lasted about 18 days.

This time around I was going to use this month of no soda to help me with decreased soda consumption. I planned on allowing myself one soda a week. If I did not drink my one soda for that week I could carry it over to the next week. I would allow myself a maximum of two sodas in any week. Needless to say that plan didn't last a day. When April 1st came I fell off the soda wagon. Now is time to pick myself back up and keep moving forward. After all what I once enjoyed now gives me headaches.

Update

2011-01-08T22:18:00.002-07:00

I am in the process of posting some older material as well as newer posts. Keep checking back!

Week of July 5

2010-07-05T08:00:00.001-06:00

The Plan

1 hour 8 min/1 min run/walk

Tempo run
10 mins w/u
10 mins tempo pace sub 9 - 8:50ish
5 mins recovery
10 more mins tempo same as above pace or faster
10 mins c/d

5 mile recovery run

Long run of 7 miles, 8 min/1 min run/walk

Week of June 28 in review

2010-07-03T23:00:00.004-06:00

5 miles - 8 run / 1 walk

I didn't exactly follow directions. I planned on doing this run later in the week. I did it this morning after work. After having finished I wish I would have held off on this run (for later in the week) because it would have been more enjoyable. It didn't take me long to realize that my legs seemed really heavy today. I don't know why. I didn't stretch on Saturday after my run and wonder if that had anything to do with it.

I felt pretty good about the results. I know given another day the result would have been a little bit better. There were a few times that I REALLY wanted to walk but I didn't until my allotted break. After each break I would gradually increase my speed until I would walk again.

Splits
5 miles in 47:51
1 9:53
2 9:31
3 9:52
4 9:17
5 9:14

Wednesday
Fartlek run 1 mile w/u
3 miles with 4 X 30 seconds sprints sprinkled in.
1 mile c/d

I ended up only walking once during this run! I was pretty proud of myself. However I wasn't happy with the time in the end. I felt that I was working a lot harder than what was shown. Here are the splits

47:22
1 9:44
2 9:12
3 10:00
4 8:56
5 9:28

Thursday
I was going to wake up early and get my long run in before my wife went to work. My alarm went off at 5:30 and I just couldn't get myself out of bed. I didn't run.

Friday
I was going to try and do my long run after work however I didn't. I went to bed and got up went to the gym and ran on the treadmill. I kicked myself for it. I ran inside because I thought it was too hot outside. The cardio room was BAKING! I should have either just run after work or run outside in the heat anyway. Things I would change if I could.

I don't have splits but my time was 51:48 for 5 miles. I was going in thinking I wanted to do my long run. I fully thought I could bust out a 50:00 min 6 miler. I started out too fast and knew I wouldn't be able to do it. So I turned it around into a slower 5 miler.

Saturday
I knew I was spending the day at my parents and didn't take running stuff with me. I had time to run today but I didn't have stuff to run in. So I kick myself for not planning ahead. I could have had a gorgeous run up a canyon. Then dinner came, I ate too much. I feel bloated and not happy about my dietary choices this week. I ate too much meat tonight. :( I knew if I were to go out for a long six I would regret that choice.

The future looks bright for next week. We are going to northern Idaho for the week. I might be able to run 5 days. But plan of 4 for sure. It will be nice to get away and unlike Moab a few weeks ago, I am going to make running a priority. I need to, St. George is coming up and I have a goal to reach!

I think I have narrowed down cause of my running funk. I feel that all my runs have to be balls to the wall and am not happy with my times after. I need to run hard when I run hard and run easy when I run easy.

Week of June 28

2010-06-28T08:00:00.001-06:00

The plan

5 miles

5 miles 8/1 run/walk

Fartlek run
1 mile w/u
3 miles with 4 X 30 seconds sprints sprinkled in.
1 mile c/d

Long run
6 miles basic run

Week of June 21 in review

2010-06-27T22:00:00.003-06:00

Monday
I went out on what was going to be my 3 mile hilly run. The battery in my Garmin wasn't charged and I had some GI issues. I didn't finish the run.

Tuesday
4 miles, 1 mile cool down. There was walking involved which I wasn't happy about. But overall I was okay with the run.

Splits
1 9:06
2 10:06
3 10:14
4 9:32
5 10:41

Friday
Long run. I was excited to be doing 6 miles but had pacing issues. As with the run on Tuesday I started out way to fast and ended up paying for it later.

Splits
1 9:58
2 10:34
3 11:13
4 11:08
5 10:31
6 12:25

Saturday
Easy 4. I ran with a neighbor. His daughter ran 1.3 with us then we finished it up. Pacing was good, the night was beautiful, and the company was great. It was a good recovery run.

1 11:08
2 11:04
3 11:07
4 10:42

Week of June 21

2010-06-21T08:00:00.001-06:00

The Plan

4 mile recovery run

4 miles general aerobic run with 1 mile cool down

3 miles, hilly route

Long run of 6 miles
2 miles w/u mellow pace
3 miles aerobic pace
1 mile c/d

Marathon Hangover

2010-06-17T18:00:00.001-06:00

Today's run is my second of the week. My marathon hangover seems to be over. I am no longer have trouble with stairs or anything like that. I might go out for another run today but am not sure about it yet. I plan on running Friday and Saturday. One of those days I am going to try and do 5 or 6 miles.

2010 Utah Valley Marathon

2010-06-13T14:07:00.007-06:00

When I woke up on Saturday it was raining at my house. I wasn't hopeful at all for the race not to have rain.

This was the first time I had the chance to ride a bus from the finish to the start. I really enjoyed driving the course before the race. I was thinking the whole time, "This is a long way".

I got to the start at about 4:40ish. Did the normal pre-race stuff and waited. Put on my poncho because it was raining (it rained the first 10 miles). The closer to start time I was thinking I should go to the porta potty again but didn't. 5:30 came and went, it still hadn't started. I crossed the line at 5:47. I stopped at the porta potties within 1/4 mile, not much time wasted but time that I could have avoided.

I started off trying to stay around 11:00/mi and did pretty well. I kept that up for the first four miles. Then I started to go a little faster. Miles 5 to 13 I managed to stay between 10:10/mi and 11:00/mi. I was feeling pretty good. By half way I had hit roughly 2:24. I thought that I could easily finish under 5 hours. There were a couple of hills that took a little to climb but it was the downhills that were killer. After 16 most of the race was pretty consistently downhill. Because of that the first pain that I felt wasn't my knee, like I thought it would be, but my hips. I had some tightness and cramping in my legs during the race but nothing to bad. Just a quick stretch and I was on my way.

As I was getting closer to coming out of the canyon I knew I was going to see my family and was getting excited for that. I had a couple of miles before I saw them. I was able to hand off my fuel belt and grab a GU. About 1/4 mile from them I had to stop and stretch because my calfs were cramping a little. A little while later I saw some of my neighbors along the course which was nice to see their "Two Bald Guys Running A Marathon" poster. I also heard another neighbor yell from a car as she drove by.

Mile 22 I used the porta potty, having briefly waited in line a few other times but decided to keep going. This ate up 5:00 minutes of my time because I had to wait. The last four miles my walking became more frequent and my time to my goal kept getting closer.

I could finally see the end and tried to run from University Avenue to the finish but had to stop to walk. Once I got going I knew I wasn't going to walk again. The last 1/10 of a mile was really hard. I saw my neighbors on the right side of the shoot and passed my sister Brittany and my daughter Ruby on the left side. Then both of my legs just seized up. The last 15 feet were really painful. I did see my wife Tavia when I was about to cross the finish line. My quads and calfs were cramping really bad. After I crossed the finish line I wanted to fall over. Someone put my medal around my neck. Some race volunteers were worried about me because I was in a lot of pain. They kept me moving until Tavia was there to help walk me around. After walking a little bit I went to the med tent. They stretched me out and that helped but I started to shake because I was now cold, having stopped running. Tavia was thinking that I had mild hypothermia. They had to put a foil blanket on me as well as two other blankets to get me warm. I was there about a half hour before I was up and moving again.

I don't know my official time yet but according to my watch I ran it in 5:02:11 which is not in my 4:45 - 4:59:59 goal. But it is still a PR. Even though the weather wasn't the greatest the course is still AMAZING. The mountains, reservoir, river, and waterfall were gorgeous. Sun would have just added to it. I would love to run this race again. I still feel pretty good about what I did. I only hope with some hill training I can hit my goal when I run St. George in October.

I only had three problems with the marathon, two of which people can control. Weather, there was only one porta potty per aid station (except at 13, which was the start for the half), and lack of food at the finish (especailly if you finish in 5 hours). For it being the third year it has grown a lot. I can't wait to run it again.

Time 5:02:11
Fastest mile #10 10:10
Slowest mile #22 15:38
Total ascent 2,156 ft
Total descent 3,520 ft

First half 2:23:56
First half pace 10:59
Last half 2:38:14
Last half pace 12:05

PR by 5:36

This post is still a work in progress. Come back often for pictures and other corrections.

Update

2010-06-06T20:30:00.001-06:00

I haven't run since Tuesday. Tavia and I went to Moab from Thursday-Saturday and spent those days hiking in Arches National Park. I did take running gear with me but just didn't get around to it. I felt that I did enough hiking to compensate for not running. :) Plus it gave me a little break.

I will start back up tomorrow. I am just going to do three or four miles each of the three days I run before my race on Saturday. I am pretty nervous about it actually. Part of me doesn't think that I have put in enough miles but I know I have. If I can finish two 18 miles long runs I am pretty confident that I can finish my marathon. I know I can even reach my target if I am able to control my pacing. Which might be a little bit of a challenge because I get excited on race morning and the net elevation lost is going to make me want to run faster.

Running Slump Continues

2010-05-31T21:18:00.002-06:00

I don't know what the reason is behind my running slump. I guess I have gotten down on myself because my pace has gone up and my walking breaks have increased. Overall I just feel that my running has not been very good. I guess all those variables compounding over a few months has just gotten me into this funk of all funks. I keep telling myself that a good race will change it around. But lets be honest I need to turn it around without a good race or a good race might not happen. I'll keep trying to really find the root of the problem.

I did run Saturday and felt okay. My pace was slower in the middle of the run but felt like I finished pretty strong which I was happy about.

Today I ran 4 miles of a planned 5 miler. I'm still worried about my knee. I have had some trouble with runner's knee on my right knee. I wonder if that could have caused the stiff right knee or if a lack of stretching could have caused it. Today was okay, my legs seemed a little dead (which is a common problem the past few months). I am going to take it easy the rest of the week as well. I am going to try and do an 8, 6, and another 4. Plus I am going to be doing some hiking this coming weekend.

Even with all the crap I still feel pretty hopeful about my marathon next week. I just hope I can keep it up so I won't get discouraged the closer it comes.

Walk of Shame

2010-05-27T20:00:00.001-06:00

First off I had run out of GU and didn't pick any up on Wednesday. The only thing I could find when I went out was CLIF shot blocks. Something that I was not used to. Which turned out to not be a big deal but threw me off a little before my run even started.

I started my run off going slow about 11:00/mile. Other than a brief walk break going across a street I managed to go 3 miles before my first planned walk/nutrition break. Up to that point I felt pretty good even though I was a little frustrated about the slow pace. I was then going to try and go 1.5 miles between breaks from then on. I don't remember how long that lasted but it wasn't long. Then run just went downhill from there. I couldn't get in a groove at all especially with all the walk breaks and frustration about my pace. I also had stopped using BodyGlid a few weeks ago, switching to vaseline, in order to save some money. I have known for the past couple of long runs, it isn't my preferred anti-chafing product. So needless to say my thighs were chafing something fierce by 7.5/8 miles.

I think the biggest thing was the mental battle I was having with my run that day. The more I thought about it I just didn't want to mentally/emotionally put more effort into that run. I didn't want to use the mental part of my marathon for this long run. So I called Tavia to come get me. She couldn't so I walked about 2 miles home.

I haven't done anything since. Other than talk to my wife about my running frustration. We both agree it has been a long time since I have had a GREAT run. Monday wasn't bad but wasn't great either.

Running is looking up

2010-05-24T20:19:00.002-06:00

Today I ran my 10 miler. When I woke up this afternoon my right new was pretty stiff. I couldn't crouch down as far as normal. Now, after my run it seems to be fine. I guess I just needed to get the synovial fluid in my knee warmed up. At least that is what I am telling myself.

I ended up only running 9.25 because Tavia needed to go somewhere so I had to get back. I could have done all 10 miles had I paced myself better and not taken as many walk breaks. That seems to be a theme for my running lately, not pacing properly and taking more walk breaks than I need to. I find myself not paying attention to pace and gradually increasing my pace until I'm going at a 8:00/mi clip and end up having to walk because my legs get tired. I try to start out doing 11:00/mi but it KILLS me to run that slow. I don't know if it is a physiological issue but I think it takes me more energy to slow down my pace to 11:00/mi then it does to run and add walk breaks.

Overall I was pretty happy with today's run, which is what I needed. The last few weeks seem to have been dragging when it comes to my running. I feel like I am getting more emotionally exhausted with this round of marathon training than I have in the past. I was even coveting my taper weeks I have coming up. I hope I can get it together so that I can have a good performance on June 12th.

Distance: 9.25
Time: 1:36:01
Pace: 10:22/mi

Unofficial Sponsors

2010-05-14T15:20:00.000-06:00

Today's 3:23:34 18 mile long run was unofficially sponsored by Marathon Talk, Run Vegan Run, Dirt Dawg's Running Diatribe, and Those Guys Running.

Unofficial Sponsors

2010-04-21T11:50:00.000-06:00

Today's 14 mile 2:36:32 long run was unofficially sponsored by. Rain, wind, sun, clouds, gorgeous snow covered mountains, not getting bit by dogs,and the mail carrier that told me to run one more mile.

Going so-so.

2010-04-21T07:24:00.002-06:00

It has been a long time since I threw in a little update on my running. Other than my injury I had in February my running isn't that bad. I have found myself in a rut and I don't know if the rut is due to me running slower than normal or if my rut causes me to run slower. Either way I need to get over it so that I can get back to what is was.

Great Quote

2010-04-16T02:06:00.000-06:00

"For most runners our sport isn't about the thrill of victory or even an occasional podium finish. No, most of us compete against our best times, or an aching knee, or the guy 15 feet in front of us, contenting ourselves that crossing the finish (and snagging a participatory medal) is victory enough."

Unofficial Sponsors

2010-04-14T10:30:00.000-06:00

Today's 14 mile 2:29:07 long run was unofficially sponsored by Jewelia McBride, crossing guards, a dog that run after me for an 1/8 mile, clean gas station bathrooms, and goats.

Unofficial Sponsors

2010-04-10T17:29:00.000-06:00

Today's 12 mile 2:09:35 long run was unofficially sponsored by blisters, sun burn, chaffing, a kid that gave me a high five, and corn dogs.

Unofficial Sponsors

2010-04-03T17:14:00.001-06:00

The unofficial sponsors of today's 12 mile 2:03:30 long run are. Tavia, Ruby, Vaseline, Gu, amazing weather, and the Subway bathroom.

It isn't going to stop

2010-01-30T21:40:00.001-07:00

Every month my copy of Runner’s World comes in the mail and can always find something in it that helps inspire me. Over the past year Marc Parent has been writing “The Newbie Chronicles”, which I am sure you can guess talks about his foray into running. For the month of February he talks about running with his son for the first time and uses a quote from The New York Times.

“If you want to improve the world with your good behavior, math is on your side. For most of us, within three degrees we are connected to more than 1,000 people – all of whom we can theoretically help make healthier, fitter, and happier just by our contagious example.”

There are times that I think people in my life get tired of hearing about my running. But guess what?! I am going to keep talking about it! You are within my 1,000 people that I hope to inspire.

2010 Running Outlook

2010-01-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

Provo City Half Marathon - May 1
I feel pretty confident that I can finish between 1:50 and 1:59:59. I would like to finish closer to 1:50 than the other end.

Utah Valley Marathon - June 12
I was going to run SLC again this year but the cost is too much considering that I can run a full marathon and a half marathon for the same price. So that is what I am going to do. Tavia and I volunteered at this marathon two years ago. It was run mostly on the Provo River Trail and only had about 100 runners. Last year I heard they had about 1,000 runners with a lot of the race on roads. This year the course is new and mostly downhill all on roads. With the PR in my marathon time last year I expect to see another PR with this race. I am hoping to drop below 5 hours and be between 4:45 and 4:59:59.

Saint George Marathon - October 2
It isn’t official but with the third time is a charm rule I should be guaranteed entrance this year. There is enough time to recover from the UV Marathon and still have a great performance for St. George. I hope for another PR somewhere between 4:30 and 4:45. Recently this marathon has been named the most organized in the country as well as being one of the top 10 favorites in the country. (All according to readers of Runner’s World) I look forward to seeing what it has to offer.

There are a few other races I am looking at but don’t know if I’ll be doing more than the above three. If for some reason St. George isn’t an option I might be looking at another marathon.

My goal mileage for the year is 1,200.

Running in Review 2009

2010-01-13T19:53:00.002-07:00

Hale Freezes Over 10K 0:57:59
This was the first time that I have run a 10K road race. I felt that it went pretty good. My goal was to finish in under an hour if I remember correctly. The only real problem that I faced during the race was some intestinal issues that caused me to battle to finish and not have a code brown during the race. The course itself had some hills that were a pain. I don’t know if I would ever run this race again because I can run a half marathon for the cost of this race.

Provo City Half Marathon 2:07:55
This was the first half marathon road race that I did. Tavia and I both ran this race (Tavia being pregnant with Ruby at the time). I mostly used this as a training run for the Salt Lake City Marathon but also wanted to have a half marathon time to work with in the future. My goal was to have a better time than contestants on The Biggest Loser had during their half marathon challenge. I accomplished my goal and really enjoyed running the half. I think that 13.1 miles is just enough of a challenge but isn’t quite as intense as running a full marathon. This course was mostly flat. It was pretty chilly during that race but I am fine with running in the cold so it didn’t bother me too much. I am going to run this race again this year and would recommend it.

Salt Lake City Marathon 5:07:47
I wanted to finish in less than 5 hours but didn’t make it. However I am very happy with my time. However I did PR by 25 minutes. I ran a majority of the race without seeing Tavia along the way because of some unforeseen circumstances but saw her and other family members around mile 18 or so. I didn’t have the same high that I did after finishing my first marathon but still enjoyed the challenge.

Ragnar Relay: The Wasatch Back
I already did a blog post about this race. I really enjoyed doing a team relay and look forward to doing another one. A team relay race is a must for any runner. It is a whole new experience!

1,013.36 miles
This was the first year that I kept track of miles run with my Garmin and miles that I did on a treadmill/indoor track. My original goal for 2009 was to run 2,000 miles which was really ambitious. It then dropped down to 1,200 miles and around August I knew that 1,000 was more realistic and was able to hit my mark pretty easily.

Ragnar Relay...really late

2009-12-15T16:36:00.000-07:00

With a tag line like "Eat. Run. Sleep. Repeat." you know it is going to be good. I was asked by a neighbor if I could join his team for the Ragnar Relay in Utah also known as the Wasatch Back.

If you aren't familiar with the Ragnar series of races across the country I'll give you a little back ground. They typically are around 170-180 miles that you complete with a team of 6-12 people. Each team starts at a different time that is decided by the 10K times that the team captain submits.

Each team has two vans that switch on and off with running and resting. I was in the second van so didn't have to be there when the first van started. The van I was in made it to the first hand off location between the two vans about 10 minutes before the other van was about to finish up their part of the relay. They had dropped a lot more time than was projected.

The three legs that I had were pretty challenging but overall I really enjoyed the experience. It was really cool running in the middle of a night with a headlamp on not knowing where I was. I think the best part of the whole race was being with other runners and having their support every couple of miles during your runs. If you haven't done a Ragnar Relay or another relay it is really worth it. Here is a the direct link to the Ragnar Relay.

The first two pictures were taken during my first of three legs of the relay.

The last two pictures were taken during my last leg of the relay.

Finally...My Marathon Report

2009-06-13T23:07:00.000-06:00

The original posting of my second marathon experience was going to be longer than this one. Since I have waited for more than a month to share it with all of you it isn’t going to be as detailed.

Training for my second marathon was very different than training for my first marathon. Going into my first marathon I didn’t really know what I was doing. The whole idea of running especially long distances was new to me. But I did a little research and found a great book that was designed to help those like me, non-runners that wanted to finish a marathon.

It wasn’t that I hadn’t run before, I just wasn’t a “runner”. I went through my first training program hanging onto what was written in The Non Runners Marathon Trainer as well as advice from other people. I ran 4 times a week rarely missing a day of running or a week of reading from The Non Runners Marathon Trainer. I was enjoying my new sport. I had become a runner and was working on becoming a marathon runner. I ran my first marathon and completed a goal. I finished a marathon! I did it, I completed one of the most physical and mentally challenging things I had ever done. I wanted more. I wanted to beat my time.

I have heard there are generally two kinds of people, those that finish a marathon and don’t ever want to do it again and those that finish and can’t wait to run another. And so it started, I became to be bitten by the marathon bug. I signed up to run the SLC Marathon again.

My running was very sporadic until early fall when it became a little more regular. I decided I was going to use the same training program that had used for my first marathon. Training would begin the end of December.

I started to read from The Non Runners Marathon Trainer again but found that some of the things talked about in the book although important didn’t really apply to me this time around. I missed a few days of my running here or there and as training progressed I stopped reading NRMT. I was feeling really good about my training. I was training for another marathon. I was getting excited. I was just working on formulating a goal. I thought of two goals. One was just to do the best I could and hope to beat my first marathon time. The other was to finish between 4:45 and 5:00. As I got further along in my training I decided that running between 4:45 and 5:00 was something that I could do.

My training went really well. As I got closer to marathon day I noticed that I wasn’t as excited this time. I think it was because I had already done everything up to this point already. I didn’t find my runs as challenging this time around because the distances I was running were those that I had run before. I was no longer running farther than I had ever run before.

Marathon week came and I was feeling pretty good about my goal of running under 5 hours. I knew that I had put in the time to my training and knew I would for sure drop time between my first marathon and this one.

Tavia went with me to the Quality of Life Expo to pick up my race packet. This year they didn’t have any swag like they did last year. The only thing I had was a shirt and a souvenir timing chip that I was able to keep. Why I wanted a timing chip that couldn’t be used again is beyond me. I went home a little disappointed with the lack of fun marathon swag.

Marathon morning arrived. I had taken a Tylenol PM before going to bed and found it a little hard to get going in the morning. I also found that my planned breakfast had somehow gone missing. Tavia and I both figure that sometime between time of purchase and marathon morning it had fallen into the trash can. I still was able to find a more than suitable breakfast for a premarathon meal. The night before I had laid out my clothes, hydration belt that was full, my post run clothing, as well as other fueling items that Tavia would have in a backpack along the course.

During the ride up I was getting more and more nervous. I ate part of a Luna Bar and got out of the car near to the start, Tavia went and found a place to park. While waiting for the race to start I found Greg a member of the marathon training group (a group that I had organized before training began, he was one of three of us that ran that day). We started the race together.

Unlike last year I saw Tavia a little after crossing the start line. She was able to get some pretty good pictures with her new camera. Within the first 3 miles Greg and I were separated from each other. He was running a faster pace than I was.
I had my phone with sent Tavia updates every mile. I found out soon into the race that she had lost her car keys. She assured me that she working on it and that she would see me later on. Mile by mile I kept sending her texts while she was waiting for another set of keys to arrive. She would send me encouragement as she followed my progress on a print out of the marathon course.

When the halfway point came I was 5-10 minutes ahead of the 2:30 half marathon pace I wanted for the day. As the mileage increased I used up the GU that I had, fully expecting that they would have some on the course for us. I was mistaken, they didn’t.

Sometime after mile 18 I started to have a different outlook on this race. From mile 18 on I had only run this distance once before! It wasn’t quite like the first time but it was still pretty cool to know that I could push myself to run this far.

I got word from Tavia that she and my family would be at mile 21. I got there a few minutes after they did. It was good to see them. Last year at mile 20 I was really tired and slowing down but this time around I was feeling pretty good. I got some GU from Tavia and I was on my way. My family was going to see me again at the finish.

The last few miles were pretty hard. I had to walk/run as opposed to the run/walk that I had been doing. Part of the last 2.5 miles was uphill. It slowed me down a lot. As I got closer to the finish line I turned off my iPod and took off my headphones. I ran the last half mile without any music. I wanted to experience the last portion of the race without music. It was nice to have the encouragement from people the last part of the marathon. As I made my last turn into The Gateway I could see the finish line, that’s when my calves started to cramp. I hadn’t had any cramping issues up until this point! I kept running the end was almost there.
I was too focused on the finish to notice that my parents, Brittany, and her kids were on the right side of the road before the finish line, I wish I would have noticed. I crossed the finish line without sprinting this time. Tavia was there at the end taking pictures. I got my medal and we kept walking so that I could cool down.

My time wasn’t under 5 hours but I am happy with 5:07:47. I feel that running under 5 hours will be a very attainable goal for my next marathon.

The recovery wasn’t as hard this time around. I was sore the rest of the day after the race as well as the Sunday after. Walking up and down stairs was still a little bit of a challenge but wasn’t like the year before. I was back to running on Monday. Since I had another race planned I couldn’t slack off on my running.

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I have the Wasatch Back coming up next weekend. It is a relay from Logan to Park City with a team of 12 runners. It is going to be a new running experience for me. I am looking forward to it. After that the only other race I am planning on doing is a half marathon on Sept. 5. I have a goal set to run it in under five hours. As for the rest of the year I really don’t know what is going to happen.

St. George Marathon update

2009-05-11T21:07:00.000-06:00

No St. George Marathon this year. But I get to run it in 2010!

St. George here I come....maybe.

2009-05-04T19:15:00.000-06:00

I just entered the lottery....for the St. George Marathon. I find out if I'm in on May 11th.

Article about me in SLC Tribune

2009-04-16T09:51:00.000-06:00

With family history in mind, runner seeks a healthy high
Sports » American Fork marathoner sees the activity as a preventive measure.

By Martin Renzhofer

The Salt Lake Tribune

Seth Mathers' first marathon became a family event.

From the nearby banks of Kootenai River in northern Idaho all the way to the Cleveland suburbs and the Cuyahoga, Mathers was able to share his sometimes painful 2008 Salt Lake City Marathon with each stab of a computer refresh button.

At various points in the marathon, Mathers' wife, Tavia, sent update blogs and video. The event was a veritable personal broadcast.

Nearly.

"They don't usually show people running five-hour marathons on 'Wide World of Sports,' " he said.

Mathers is scheduled to repeat his performance Saturday in the sixth annual running of the Salt Lake City Marathon, and while his goal has changed from merely looking to finish to running a projected time, his reasons for running remain the same.

The 26-year-old American Fork resident and Utah Valley University student, scheduled to graduate this year in exercise science, began running as a preventive measure.

"I come from a family with a history of health problems," said Mathers. "My parents, brothers and sisters and grandparents have had weight problems, heart disease, sleep apnea, diabetes. My chances of having those will go down."

Mathers became a recreational runner three years ago. He even trained recreationally for the 2008 Salt Lake City Marathon, using the book The Non-Runners Marathon Trainer by David Whitsett.

The book is designed for those whose lone goal is to finish the 26.2-mile race. Mathers finished last year in a smidgen more than five hours and 30 minutes. The goal for 2009 is to break five hours.

"He is unrelenting," said Tavia Mathers, who competes in triathlons. "That's part of his determination. He is very driven."

Tavia, who recently earned a master's degree from Brigham Young University in nursing, also comes from a family with a history of health problems. She turned to triathlons three years ago, too.

The couple works out together, which helps with maintaining motivation.

Mathers doesn't ride a bicycle, however. He still harbors not-so-fond memories of trying to negotiate the bustling London streets during his LDS Church mission.

"It will happen," said Tavia, who has had to throttle back her training because of a pregnancy. "It's just a time."

In the meantime, Mathers keeps his feet on the ground, slowly increasing his mileage as the marathon approached.

"I don't know how people who travel run then fly home," he said. "The first day [last year] wasn't too bad. The next three days, it was agonizing to go upstairs. It was awful."

Mathers' pain was offset by the gain.

"It was the biggest natural high I've ever had," he said. "It was a long way to go."

martyr@sltrib.com

Provo Half Marathon

2009-04-05T09:29:00.000-06:00

This past Saturday Tavia and I both ran in the Provo City Half Marathon. 13.1 is a distance that is not unfamiliar to me. Since having run one marathon and am training for another (running it in less than two weeks!) I have run 13.1 and beyond. But I am always looking to run a race. I love the feeling of lining up with hundreds maybe even thousands of people knowing that you all are about to do the same race. There is so much excitement in the preparation, picking up your race packet, arriving there on race morning, and the race itself.

Race morning was chilly, snowy, and windy. I'll be honest. I had no problem with the weather. I have run in inches and inches of snow, ice, and wind that will take your breath away. I was ready.

Going into the race I had seen an episode of The Biggest Loser where the contestants went home and ran a half marathon. A few of them ran it in under 2:30. I had my goal set. I wanted to have a better time then they did. :)

I enjoyed the race. My "official" time was a little off because they didn't account for how long it took each of us to cross the start line. So I'm going by my Garmin since it is a minute or so better.

With a time of 2:07:55 I am pretty happy with my performance. I didn't push myself as hard as I could have. That is due to the fact that I have a marathon coming up and didn't want to hurt my goal of running my marathon in 4:45 - 5:00.

I enjoyed the 13.1 distance. It wasn't as demanding as a full marathon but didn't have the same sense of accomplisment that I had after finishing my first marathon. I think that will happen as I become a better runner and am able to drop time. Overall it was a great race. The massage I had after the race was pretty great. I just wish I could have an hour massage with two people massaging me. I highly recomend it.

Dirt is the new tan

2009-03-17T20:26:00.003-06:00

This is a picture of my ankle after my long run this past Saturday. Isn't all that dirt sexy?

The Mind is Powerful

2009-02-11T16:36:00.002-07:00

There are days when it is just hard to find the motivation to do something. There are days that it is hard to find the motivation to go out for a run. I found very few days last year during my marathon training that that was the case. Yesterday on my middle distance run of the week I had one of those moments. I just could not find the motivation to run. I knew it was going to be bad and because of that I really don't want to go out and do 6 crappy miles.

I went out and did my crappy 6 miles. When you know it is going to be a good run you
just know it. Sure enough I go out and do a great run. But on days like yesterday I
think before I go out how bad it is going to be. How slow I am going to go or how tired my legs are.

I'm right most of the time. I'm right before I leave the house. I make up mind to be great or to totally run crappy miles. I guess I just need think of some good from every run.

My first 10K

2009-02-02T09:20:00.003-07:00

I ran my first 10K race this past Saturday. It could have gone better. Due to some poor choices and other things my time wasn't what it could have been. I still did finish under 60 minutes which was my overall goal. I think that it could have been closer to 54/55 not the 57:59 that it was. It was good to have both of my parents there to support me. This was the first race of mine that they have been able to go to. There will be pictures coming as soon as I get them from their camera.

Week 5 almost done

2009-01-30T09:32:00.002-07:00

I only have two more running days for week 5 of my marathon training. It seems to be going pretty well. I ran 3 miles on Monday then 10 on Wednesday(I switched my long run day this week to run a 10K on Saturday). Today is another 3 and Saturday will be a 10K. I am ready for the weather to change so there isn't anymore snow and the temperature is a little warmer.

Healing

2009-01-20T11:41:00.001-07:00

This was recently taken. My leg is looking better.

Running goal

2009-01-19T18:54:00.003-07:00

In case you haven't noticed it I have set a running goal for myself. 2,000 miles in 2009. I know that sounds like a lot of miles but when you think that for my marathon training I am going to be doing close to 500 I think I can make it. I had some counting problems with it at first but right now is my correct mileage as of today. By the end of the week I'll be adding 16 for my training and 1.5 for a running test. So that will bring my total to 61.5 by the end of the week. :)

To run or not to run

2009-01-18T17:24:00.003-07:00

I am looking into doing this race. My mileage for that day is longer than a 10K but I think it would be fun. There is a 5K as well if you are interested.

Week 3 is over

2009-01-18T17:14:00.003-07:00

I finished week 3 off strong yesterday on a long run with Glade (another member of the UVU Marathon Group). We ran up Provo Canyon into the wind and down the canyon with the wing at our backs. We ran 7 miles in 1:03.36 which for me is a really good time. I think that I was slowing Glade down a little bit. But I will be the first to tell you that running with someone that is faster than you will help you focus on the run and will help you go a little faster. I was happy to go look at my time from my 7 mile run last year and compare it to the run this year....14 minutes was dropped from my time! That is great! I just hope that I can continue to run with other people that push me to go a little fast so that I can reach my marathon goal this year... which is to not only finish but to finish in under 5 hours.

I want to run more! Why does the body need time to rest?

2009-01-13T15:09:00.005-07:00

Marathon training is going pretty good. I just started week 3 yesterday. Today is one of those days that I wish I was on a different program that would allow for running more days....the weather today is perfect running weather. But I guess I need to take a day off.

I wanted to share my new addiction.....running podcasts. Go over to iTunes and search podcasts. There are tons of them to listen to and for free! One that I have been listening to is called Running From the Reaper. If you want to know what it is there is a link over in my link section. Give Nigel my friend over in the UK a listen.

And an update on my knee. It is looking pretty good. As soon as my photographer comes home from work I'll have her take a picture.

A note from 1.18.09: A picture of my leg was taken today and I will get it up on the blog tomorrow.

When will I learn?

2009-01-01T17:21:00.003-07:00

I fell while running for the second time in as many days. This does not look good for the next 16 weeks. The city really needs to work on plowing the roads better as well as people need to stop being lazy and just shovel their sidewalks.

Let the training begin!

2008-12-30T19:46:00.003-07:00

Well it is that time again. Today (a day late) I started training for the Salt Lake City Marathon. I hope to update the blog here a little more that I am training for something. I am using the same program that I used last time.

Here is the mileage for this week.

Tuesday: 3 miles
Wednesday: 4 miles
Thursday: 3 miles
Saturday: 5 miles

Along with my running I am taking a pilates class at UVU on Mondays and Wednesdays. I am also going to try and lift weights 2-3 days a week. I hope with everything that I am doing I'll be able to drop weight and drop time on my pace. I'm hoping that I can finish the marathon in under 5 hours. But really I just want to finish.

Turkey Trot

2008-11-28T13:15:00.005-07:00

I ran my first race since finishing the marathon. I wanted to finish in under 40 mintues and did with a time of 37:34.1. I had run the previous two weeks, my time might have been a little bet if I had. There are a couple more races in the next couple of months that I am going to run. A 5K at UVU then two more 5Ks on Dec. 20 and Dec. 31.

Taking my gloves off.

The finish line.

Me finishing the race.

I didn't look as tired after this race as I did the marathon.

Tavia and me. It turned out to be a great day for a run. I wish I didn't wear that long sleeve jacket.

Update.

2008-10-22T20:53:00.004-06:00

I thought I would let you know what is going on with my running life. As you can see I renamed my blog to The Self-Proclaimed Runner. I think Joy in Running was a little too cheesy and I haven't looked but it was probable also the name of a book.

I just recenly purchased (my first E-Bay win) a pair of Asics 2130 size 11 1/2. They are pretty good shoes....if you are looking for a Christmas gift idea for you favorite self-proclaimed runner....they are a great choice. ;)

I am also in the works of getting the word out at UVU that I want to start a traning group for Salt Lake in April.

As for running.

That could be imporved. 2-3 times a week isn't going to cut it.

Running blog name

2008-09-17T09:59:00.001-06:00

I don't know if I am really liking the name "Joy in Running". I am looking for some more names for this blog. Help me out.

It's going

2008-08-14T11:56:00.005-06:00

I just thought I would update you all on how my running is going. I one day shy of running 4 days this week. That hasn't happened till April. I have an outline for training that will help me towards running the SLC marathon in April. I'll be posting my running schedule either a week or a month at a time. In late December or early January I'll have a better idea of what other races I'll be doing next summer that is when a calender is published for the races here in Utah. (The Mathers Family is going to running/walking a half marathon in late July/August, or that is the goal I have made for everyone.)

Strange how things happen

2008-07-04T15:46:00.002-06:00

After finishing the marathon I was so excited to run as many races as I could. But how that has changed. I have found it hard over these past few months to even run yet alone run in any races. I don't want to point my finger at any one reason there are a few. I took a week after following the marathon. Something that I should NOT have done. Since then I have not been able to get in a rhythm and find it hard to put something in my day that I once found important. I now am in a weekly struggle of when I can run. It is something I need to work on. I guess I need a goal to work forward to in order to get back on track. A goal is was helped me finish the marathon, a goal is what I need to get back into my running again.

No St. George for me

2008-05-09T19:11:00.001-06:00

Sadly I didn't get into the St. George Marathon. I now am going to sign up to Top of Utah which is on Sept. 20.

Anytime

2008-05-09T16:37:00.002-06:00

Any minute now I will know if I am running St. George or not.

On a side note I just ran 4 miles. :) I haven't run a whole lot after SLC. I am trying to get a schedule down. I had a pretty good one during the semester but I am finding it hard to get in a rhythm. I will work on it. I could get some really good training in I just need to buckle down.

A Picture Tribute

2008-05-08T17:47:00.010-06:00

I talked about my supporters in my "Welcome to the end" post but I felt that they really need their own post. Here are the pictures of the people that were there to cheer me on during the marathon and some that weren't their but were cheering me in their own way.

Tavia out on the course waiting for me to appear.

This is Tavia and me during a stretching break at mile 20.

Brittany, Scott, AJ, and Julia at mile 20 waiting for me to arrive.

Julia and AJ doing what they do at mile 20.

I mentioned that I heard them before I saw them. Here is the crowd at the end of Liberty Park. Carly, Brett, Morgan, Callee, Brittany, Scott, AJ, Julia, and two random people I don' know.

Brett, Carly, Morgan, Callee.

Everyone together after the marathon.

Camera waiting for me at mile 4/5.

Jennifer the other author of the marathon blog.

A late addition to the picture tribute. David and Marie. (Marie says she is/was my biggest fan.)

And most of all two people that wanted to be there but weren't able to be.

And to everyone else that were supporting me in their own way. Thank you!

St. George Marathon

2008-05-08T17:44:00.003-06:00

The people that make the lottery for the St. George Marathon will be posted Friday by 5 MST. So look back to see if I made it in! If I don't get into St. George chances are good that I will be doing the Top of Utah Marathon Sept. 20 in Logan.

Welcome to the end.

2008-04-28T07:20:00.013-06:00

I know, I have taken my sweet time getting around to sharing my experience with all of you. Maybe part of me is wanting to put it off in hopes that the experience of running my first marathon isn't over.

I am starting this blog entry Saturday April 26, 2008 at around 5:45 AM. I don't know when I will finish and post it. But one week ago from today I was making my way up to Salt Lake to run my first marathon! I was so excited.

I had posted an entry before I left about that excited/nervous/scared feeling. I couldn't have described it any better. I don't know which emotion I was feeling the most. I was about to do something that I had never done before. It wasn't really a fear, because I have those and know what they feel like. It was uncertainty. Was I going to make it? Was I going to keep my mind focused on my goal? Was I going to cry after crossing the finish line like Tavia said I would? I didn't know. I was soon to find out.

I got to Tavia's house sometime after 5. We made our way up and found a place to park and waited for her friend Camera (she was running the half and was going to start out running with me until courses went different ways). During that time I finished getting myself ready by applying sunscreen and Bodyglide (anti chafing stuff). I was doing a marathon no-no, using something on race day that I hadn't used during a long run (it turned out fine). I should have listened to advice and trained with the stuff. ;)

Going into the marathon I had heard/read that the last 6-8 miles is the last half of the race. I know you are saying, what are you talking about 6-8 miles doesn't sound like half of 26.2! Well let me explain. I had run 18 miles, twice. Granted the second time wasn't 18 straight miles but I still ran 18 miles in one day. I can do 18 miles in one day. 26.2 in one day, that I didn't know. Normally people (maybe inexperienced runners I should say) go out at the start of a marathon like they normally would a long run. Then towards the end they hit one of two walls. I have talked about those walls before. I wanted to run the last 6-8 miles first. I was going to go out at a slower pace and then finish strong with my head high. Oh how easier said than done.

We made our way up to where the starting line was. There were a lot of people! They said 12,000, that was will all the races that day. Tavia walked with us for a while and then Camera and I made our way to what was then the back of the line. I was caught up in the moment that I didn't even say bye to Tavia. Which I wish I would have. Then Camera and I waited. Waited for what seemed like a long time. At this point, as time kept passing I kept continued getting more nervous. I just wanted to get running. I knew I could do that, I had been training for months. I just wanted to run.

The countdown finally happened but the start didn't happen for us yet. We had to wait for all the people in front of us to cross the start line. Once we finally did cross my nervousness and anxiety went away. The excitement on the other hand, was still there. I was now a marathon runner! I was actually doing it! I had said I was one on my blog, to other people, even to myself when I had a hard run and wanted to give up. But here I was, running the beginning of 26.2 miles. Wow!

I couldn't have asked for better weather. I had run in snow (inches and inches of snow, it could have added up to feet), cold weather, nasty wind, and a little rain. I was blessed with sun and mild temperatures on marathon day. The nasty wind kicked in later.
As I mentioned before I wanted to start out slow. But I was feeling great, I had taken it a few weeks up to the marathon and had a lot of energy. Camera was running with me and I think that had a little to do with how fast I started. This was only the second time I had run with someone (the UVU 5k was the other, well at first I was then they ran faster than me) and she could keep the pace I set. Which was too fast for that early in the race.

We met Tavia shortly into the race between miles 4 and 5 before half marathon/marathon split. She knew that I was going faster than I wanted t o. I didn't want to slow down! I was feeling so great.

The next time I saw Tavia I was in a residential area and she was just standing on a corner waiting for me. I ran right up to her. I was so glad to see her.

I really don't remember what happened after that. I just enjoyed the moment. I was out running a marathon listening to music that I had selected for the race. There were two songs that I know had a big effect on me during the race. Again I don't remember where I was on the course but U2's "Where the Streets Have No Name" is a perfect marathon song. The other is a song called "Ocean" by John Butler. I normally don't like instrumental songs but there is something special about this one. During concerts John Butler will introduces it by saying that he sends it out as a prayer. I hit the wall around the time this song played.

I believed for the longest time not to involve God in a few things. One is trivial things in life that don't really matter (like what color car should I buy) and another is sports. I just figure that there are more important things. During this time I realized that I was doing something pretty important. . . FOR ME. I had a goal of completing a marathon and I had done fine up to this point. But I needed help.

I listened to "Ocean" again. All 11 minutes of it. *The video below isn't that long.

By the time I reached mile 20 I was tired. I was having to stop pretty frequently to stretch as well as many periods of walking. I passed Tavia at mile 18 and didn't know it I would have loved to see her then. But I saw her at mile 20 as well as Scott, Brittany, Julia, and AJ. I was happy to see them. I knew that they were there for me and it helped me until I met up with Camera.

After I met up with Camera there was 3+ miles left in the marathon. Every step I had taken past 18 miles was another step further than I had ever run before in my life! I felt it.

Around mile 24 came the end of Liberty Park. I heard them before I saw them. Brett, Carly, Callee, Morgan, Scott, Brittany, Julia, and AJ as well as a few other people that were just there. Thank you so much!

I had to continue the slow jogging/walking/stretching until I got to the last mile. I told Camera I wanted to run the rest of the way. And we did other than having to stretch. We got to the Gateway and I asked Camera to let me run the rest of it alone. Looking back I wish I would have given her my iPod and water belt so I could just enjoy the last 1/4 mile.

I loved running up the Gateway with the fences on either side of the road with the marathon logo on them. People were watching (granted not as many as there would have been 2 hours earlier) and cheering me on. As I continued on they called my name over the PA system and I started to sprint towards Tavia who was on the other side of the finish line.

I had finished it! I had run my first marathon. What a great experience. There were days in the past few months that I didn't want to run. I just wanted to sleep or do something else. But after crossing that finish line I was glad I stuck it out. I am glad that I didn't let negative thoughts creep in a get me down. I can look back at those 26.2 miles and be proud. As I wrote in a research paper this semester, I fell that I have truly joined an elite group of people by running a marathon. It is one of the most physical and psychological challenges that I have ever faced. I did it!

So in reality this isn't truly the end? Yes I finished my first marathon but I'm not stopping there. I have a list of all the races in the area until December and I am going to try and run as many as I have time and resources to do. I have also registered to run Salt Lake in 2009. Woohoo for me! It is going to be the same course so I get to see how my time has hopefully improved. I also have registered for the Saint George Marathon which is the first weekend of this October but don't know if I will be able to run (they only allow 7,000 runners so there is a lottery). I will know before May 8th. So looks like I get to start making a training schedule soon.

I want to finish by thanking people that helped make this experience a very enjoyable one. Mom and Dad, I know that you couldn't be here to cheer me on. I still knew that you supported me and wanted me to do my best. There will be other marathons and you would be a welcome addition to the cheering section of any of them. The next person I want to thank is the honorary author of my marathon blog. Jennifer thanks for helping out by posting pictures, updates, and those cheers that you found online. You have given me something to look back on and enjoy. As well as those that read my blog on marathon day! To my supporters along the way from mile 20 on. Brittany, Scott, Julia, AJ, Brett, Carly, Callee, and Morgan it was good to see you and hear you cheer for me. Thanks for being there and taking the time to drive and find out where I was along the course. Camera thanks for running with me the first few and the last few miles. I enjoyed your company even if I wasn't all that talkative those last few miles.

Most of all I want to thank Tavia. She took her whole day to help with my marathon experience. She was there numerous times during the race. She woke up early and drove me up to Salt Lake, gave me drinks, GU, pain killers, support, took pictures and video, sent Jennifer text updates, and not to mention some hot sweet lovin. ;) She was there when I crossed the finish line and made sure that after the race I ate and drank to help with the recovery. What can I say I am marrying a superstar. ;)

And last of all anyone else that might have blog stalked me during this time. I hope you enjoyed these past few months. But continue to check back to see how my running is coming.

Total mileage: 405.69
Total time: 69:19:52
Avg. pace: 10:15/mi
Avg speed: 5.9 mph
Max speed: 15.4 mph
Estimated calories used: 60,857
Total ascent: 25,649 feet
Total descent: 26,134 feet

Official Marathon Results
Chip Time: 5:32:09
Chip Pace: 12:40
Age Div: 113 / 120
Place Overall: 1224 /1376
Sex Overall: 766 / 832
Gun Time: 5:37:36
Gun Pace: 12:53
Time to Start Line: 5:27
1/2 Marathon Split: 2:32:32
1/2 Marathon Pace: 11:38
Last 5K Split: 0:40:23

After crossing the finish line.

2008-04-21T01:21:00.002-06:00

The following video is what happens after you sprint 109 ft in 5 seconds after running 26+ miles.

More about my marathon experinece to come soon.

He Is The Champion!

2008-04-19T13:12:00.003-06:00

Hooray! Hooray! Hooray! Seth has finished the marathon. I don't know the exact ending time or what his total time was! Also, Brett and Carly Mathers were out there supporting him, as well, but I do not have a photo.

Stay tuned for more info. Seth has a test to take this afternoon, so I'm not sure when we'll hear from him.

It's The Final Countdown!

2008-04-19T12:09:00.003-06:00

Tavia just texted to say that Brittany saw Seth pass Mile 23 about 5 minutes ago (so around 12 p.m. Mountain time).

The Last Stretch

2008-04-19T11:55:00.001-06:00

The last few miles of the course are more uphill. This is crunch time! Somewhere, Seth is going to hit the wall and have to break through! Send all those good vibes his way!

Another Pic From Mile 20

2008-04-19T11:37:00.003-06:00

Blue skies, 72 degrees, but very windy!

Brittany "Cleatus" Snow and Seth "The One and Only Geeta Boy" Mathers

Mile 20 He's Going, Going, Going....

2008-04-19T11:32:00.003-06:00

Looking good! Feeling fine! He's just a ray of sunshine!

Almost there Seth! Good for you!

Passed mile 20 around 11:15 a.m. Mountain time

How Much Can YOU Run!

2008-04-19T11:18:00.002-06:00

Yeah, Yeah,
Does He Rock?
Yeah, Yeah,
Take it to the Top?
Yeah, Yeah
Is He gonna stop?
No way!

Have not heard any updates yet, but just a reminder that the most miles Seth has ever run in a row (I checked back on his posts to make sure) is 18, I believe. So, 20+ will mark some top running for him!

Traveling Fan Club!

2008-04-19T11:14:00.003-06:00

Hooray for the Snows (Brittany, Scott, Julia, and A.J.)! They were waiting for Seth at Mile 20!

Commercial Break!

2008-04-19T10:42:00.004-06:00

For those of you latecomers (and shame on you for not being with us from the beginning *grin*), there are so many posts now that in order to read all about Seth's "Big Race Day" you need to go to the bottom of the screen and click on Older Posts. Comments ARE appropriate!

Update: Pearl says that it won't let her make a comment, so if you are having the same difficulty then save your comments until Seth is home and posting, and he should be allowing the comments again. I can't see them or approve them. Ahhh ! For ultimate Blog powers!

We Bring You This News!

2008-04-19T10:38:00.003-06:00

Mile 18 (68.7%) passed at 10:35 a.m. Mountain time.

Stand up,
it's time to shout
Come on fans,
Yell it out
Say it loud
Say it proud
Go Seth! Go Seth!
Go! Go! Go!

(And yes, I borrowed the cheer. Thank you Internet! ;-) )

THE Man Himself!

2008-04-19T10:33:00.005-06:00

Mile 16 (61%): Doing well and looking great! Seth, Seth, he's our man! He can do it! Yes he can!

Next update from mile 18 to come.

Live from Taviluv

2008-04-19T09:59:00.003-06:00

Without Tavia running ahead for moral support, updates, and picture taking, we would have no info on Seth's marathon. We would have to wait ! Go Tavia!

Mile 14

2008-04-19T09:45:00.002-06:00

Tavia wanted to catch Seth at mile 14, but she says the southern part of the route is hard to get to.

Here is a link to the course map:

http://www.saltlakecitymarathon.com/fileadmin/SLC_pdf/All_events_08.pdf

Pause For Station Identification

2008-04-19T09:21:00.003-06:00

This is where all the media relay is taking place. You can see my faithful kitty in the background. The headphones around my neck are because I am also working this morning. Bet Seth didn't know that when he gave me permission to post I was going to take over his blog! ;-)

Marathon Weather

2008-04-19T09:18:00.003-06:00

From Tavia: It is 66 degrees outside, and Seth is running into a headwind.

Almost to the halfway mark!

2008-04-19T09:12:00.001-06:00

Seth has now passed Mile 11 at 9:10 a.m. Mountain time. That is now 42% of the way!

Rah rah sis boom bah!

Where is he now?

2008-04-19T08:52:00.002-06:00

Update from Tavia! This is a picture of Seth (I think he's the front right in the red shirt) passing 8.5 miles at 8:45 a.m. Mountain time. That's 32% of the way through!

The next update should be from Mile 11 as Tavia is there now.

Miles to go!

2008-04-19T08:05:00.002-06:00

Seth has passed the 4.5-mile mark, almost a quarter of the way through now. Tavia is keeping up by car, but she says the roads are crazy. She says the only way Seth would be ahead of her is if he was keeping pace with the Kenyans! ;-)

GO SETH!

Ready Set Go!

2008-04-19T07:11:00.002-06:00

Well no word, but it's past start time now, so I think we are officially a go!

Update: Official word from Tavia is that Seth started, but he was looking for her on the wrong side of the road. :-)

It's Almost Time!

2008-04-19T06:51:00.002-06:00

So, Seth is walking to the start line right now!!! His number is 293, and he did get about 6 hours of sleep.

Don't you just love technology! I can send a typed message on my phone and get a reply almost instantly! LOVE it!

Pre-race Photo at Tavia's

2008-04-19T06:33:00.003-06:00

Good morning everyone! It is the "RACE DAY!" Woo hoo! Time to race is T minues 22 minutes and counting, at least from my clock and as I type. Seth you know I love you when I get up early to blog about your big day! ;-) Of course, Seth has been up since 4 a.m. to get ready and have Tavia take him up to Salt Lake. Did he even get any sleep? I will find out for all you readers. I'll find out his race number too. Stay tuned to this channel!

Today is the day!

2008-04-19T04:14:00.002-06:00

Today is it! I am running the marathon. :) I have that exicted, nervous, scared feeling. I don't which I am more. Exicted, nervous, or scared.

Race Day Eve

2008-04-18T20:42:00.004-06:00

Ready! Get Set! Run!

Hey everybody! Just here to cheer Seth on. Tune in here for news live from Tavia via my cell phone on Seth's race progress. The fun starts at 7 a.m. Mountain/8 a.m. Central/9 a.m. Eastern.

Marathon playlist.

2008-04-18T16:20:00.002-06:00

What does a marathon runner listen to? I don't know about everyone else on the course this Saturday but this is what I am going to be listening to.

Sweet Emotin - Aerosmith
Crazy - Alanis Morissette
Marathon Runner - Debra Fotheringham
Sugar, We're Goin Down - Fall Out Boy
Meant To Live - Switchfoot
Animal - Pearl Jam
Kryptonite - 3 Doors Down
Stay With You - Goo Goo Dolls
Bring Me To Life - Evanescence
Better Now - Collective Soul
Take Me As I Am - Tonic
Betterman - John Butler Trio
Good - Better Than Ezra
Hang - Matchbox Twenty
Burn To Shine - Ben Harper
Waiting On The World To Change (Featuring Ben Harper) - John Mayer
Ants Marching - Dave Matthews Band
Two Step - Dave Matthews Band
Beat It (feat. John Mayer) - Fall Out Boy
The Boxer - Carbon Leaf
Girl All The Bad Guys Want -Bowling For Soup
Numb/Encore - Linkin Park & Jay-Z
Stargaze - Xavier Rudd
Funky Tonight - John Butler Trio
When I Come Around - Green Day
I Don't Want to Be - Gavin DeGraw
Smooth Criminal - Alien Ant Farm
Run - Collective Soul
Black Horse And The Cherry Tree -KT Tunstall
Disease - Matchbox Twenty
Flake - Jack Johnson
Pretty Vegas - INXS
Give A Little Bit - Goo Goo Dolls
Recognize (feat. DJ Swamp)- Better Than Ezra
Hold My Hand - Hootie & The Blowfish
Chemistry - Kyle Riabko
Open Road Song - Eve 6
Thnks Fr Th Mmrs - Fall Out Boy
Walk This Way (feat. Joe Perry and Run D.M.C.) - Aerosmith
Zebra - John Butler Trio
She - Kalai
Grin - Guster
Drive In Drive Out - Dave Matthews Band
Jamming - Bob Marley
So High So Low - Ben Harper
Numb - Linkin Park
Where The Streets Have No Name - U2
Mrs. Potters Lullabye - Counting Crows
Better Way - Ben Harper
Wind It Up - Barenaked Ladies
Not Coming Home - Maroon 5
How To Save A Life - The Fray
Long Way Down - Goo Goo Dolls
O. Lover - Jason Mraz
Elegantly Wasted - INXS
Ocean - John Butler Trio
Mr. Brightside - The Killers
Teardrop - Massive Attack
Inside Out - Eve 6
Juicy - Better Than Ezra
Almost - Bowling For Soup
Life Less Ordinary - Carbon Leaf
Knock Down Walls - Tonic
Louisiana Bayou - Dave Matthews Band
1985 - Bowling For Soup
Heavy - Collective Soul
Stir It Up - Bob Marley
Dare You To Move - Switchfoot
Work It Out - Jurassic 5 & Dave Matthews Band
Future Says Run - Tonic
A Thousand Miles - Vanessa Carlton
Crawling - Linkin Park
Somebody Told Me - The Killers
Yeah! - Usher featuring Lil' Jon & Ludacris
Evenflow - Pearl Jam
This Is Your Life - Switchfoot

Week 16 baby!

2008-04-16T23:48:00.002-06:00

The total mileage that I posted for week 15 turned out to be more than I actually ran. I didn't do the long run of 8 miles. My right foot told me it wanted three days off. I listened.

It is marathon week! Can you believe it? The last 16 weeks have gone by pretty fast. I have already started to make a list of races around the Utah County area to keep myself busy with training. As of right now I am going to register for the St. George Marathon it is the first Saturday in October. But that could change. I also have to be selected since they only let 7,000 runners and it is a pretty big Boston qualifier.

Keep looking back at the blog for updates until marathon day. I am working on someway for my progress to be posted during the run. I think I am going to have Tavia text someone my progress and then have them post on the blog.

Total mileage for Week 16: 35.2 miles

Monday: 3 miles
Wednesday: 3 miles
Thursday: 3 miles
Saturday: 26.2 miles

V, W

2008-04-16T23:46:00.000-06:00

Here are some more quotes from that book.

V

Victory
With the exception of one man - currently Khalid Khannouchi, the world-record holder - everyone else in the world is "slower." Few people lose in a marathon; we all just win with different times.

Virginity
Make your first marathon easy, both training for it and racing in it. Pick a low-mileage plan. Set a time goal you can easily accomplish. Enjoy the sights and sounds and finish, knowing you could have run faster. There will be plenty of time to take marathon training more seriously later if you decide to run another.

W

Walk/Run
Walking during marathons and other distance events has proven popular among newcomers, who no longer feel obligated to run every step of the way. Rather than follow a rigid routine in which you walk every 10 minutes (or other precise time or mileage), plan your breaks around aid stations. Walking through aid stations allows you to drink more fully without spilling water on yourself or on the ground. Whenever you walk, do so by the side of the road so that you don't block runners and make them dodge around you.

Why
Mountain climber Robert Mallory (when asked why he wanted to climb Mount Everest) responded: "Because it is there." That response seems to satisfy mountain climbers, but maybe not always marathoners. For many soon-to-be runners, participating in a marathon seems a very ambitious, distant and even glorious goal, yet one that is attainable. Different runners have different reasons for wanting to run 26 miles 385 yards, and those reasons often change from marathon to marathon.

Seth's note:
Someone at work asked me why I wanted to run a marathon. My response was. . . Because I can.

Withdrawal
When runners hit the peak of their training and start to taper for their race - particularly if they do a long taper of several weeks before a marathon - they often begin to feel sluggish and antsy. There are typical withdrawal symptoms and are as much psychological as physical. You miss your longer run and maybe the time spent with training companions. But any anxiety you may feel is a small price to pay for race-day achievement.

Blind runner finishes seven marathons in seven days

2008-04-14T18:15:00.000-06:00

Got this off of Yahoo. This man is amazing!

LONDON (AFP) - A blind British runner became only the third person ever to complete seven marathons on seven continents in seven days when he crossed the London Marathon's finish line on Sunday.

The gruelling week-long stretch saw 50-year-old Dave Heeley run a total of 183.4 miles (293.4 kilometres) -- 26.2 miles a day -- in the Falkland Islands, Rio de Janeiro, Los Angeles, Sydney, Dubai, Tunis and London to raise money for guide dogs.

"To think last week I was in the Falklands, it's just too incredible for words," Heeley said after completing his last marathon of the week in five hours and 20 minutes

"I am the first blind person to do this. It's been a fantastic adventure and one I'm going to talk about for a long time."

Upon completing the London leg, Heeley was embraced by his wife, Debbie and daughters Dannie, Georgie Lee and Grace.

Heeley, from West Bromwich in central England, was born with an eye disease and lost his sight completely at the age of 16, curtailing a keen interest in running.

He began competing again at the age of 40 when he heard of someone doing the London Marathon to raise money for the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

Utah Valley Marathon

2008-04-12T16:31:00.003-06:00

I found out about the Utah Valley Marathon and was going to run the first 8 miles and then drop out. The cost for that was just too much so Tavia and I helped handout water, Gatorade, and GU. There were two other people helping us but I don't remember their names. Here are some pictures.

Tavia getting warm at Mile 14.

Me getting warm at Mile 14. Thanks Tavia!

Our first runner. He reached us about 1:20 into the race! Wish that was me...maybe someday.

At 9:30 we went to the finish line. I get to do this next Saturday! I'm so excited.

Here is a sign.

Who is that sexy beast?

2008-04-11T17:38:00.003-06:00

This is me at the UVU 5k a few Saturdays ago.

News article.

2008-04-09T10:27:00.002-06:00

One of my loyal readers found this and e-mailed the link to me. I am providing the link as well.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/04/02/heroes.mahlum/index.html

PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania (CNN) -- At 5 a.m. on any given day, Anne Mahlum could be found running the dark streets of Philadelphia -- with homeless men cheering her on as she passed their shelter. But one morning last spring, she stopped in her tracks.

"Running really is a metaphor for life," Anne Mahlum says. "You just have to take it one step at a time."

"Why am I running past these guys?" recalls Mahlum, 27. "I'm moving my life forward every day -- and these guys are standing in the same spot."

Instead of continuing to pass them by, the veteran marathoner sprang into action so they could join her.

She contacted the shelter, got donations of running gear, and in July 2007 the "Back On My Feet" running club hit the streets.

The first day, Mahlum led nine shelter residents in a mile-long run. Today, Back on My Feet has teams in three Philadelphia shelters, including 54 homeless members and more than 250 volunteers. The group has logged more than 5,000 miles.

Requirements for shelter residents to join are simple -- they must live in an affiliated facility and be clean and sober for 30 days. Members receive new shoes and running clothes, and teams run together three times a week between 5:30 and 6 a.m.

The runners are diverse -- doctors, janitors, students and shelter residents -- but such distinctions aren't apparent.

"All you can tell is who's the fastest," says Mahlum. "You can't tell who's homeless and who's not."

For Mahlum and others, Back On My Feet is more than a running club.

"We're a community of support, love, respect," she says.

Runners greet each other with hugs and words of encouragement. While members say they've lost weight, quit smoking and have more energy, Mahlum believes they're also learning important life skills such as discipline and goal-setting that can help them get on the road to self-sufficiency.

"Running really is a metaphor for life," she says. "There is always another mile. You just have to take it one step at a time."

That's something Mahlum herself has learned over the past 10 years as she's dealt with her father's alcoholism. Running has been her therapy, she says.

"I'm learning more about my life through all of this."
Back On My Feet also has a job training program for a partner. Three members are taking classes, learning computer and interview skills, while three others have found jobs.

Mike Solomon, an original member, is one of the group's success stories. A former crack user who spent his youth in and out of trouble on the streets of Wilmington, Delaware, Solomon is employed, in school and training to run a marathon in his hometown. He considers Back on My Feet part of his support group.

"Anne is helping people see the hero in themselves," says Solomon.

Mahlum aims to have Back On My Feet in 10 local shelters by the end of the year and expand beyond Philadelphia in 2009. She believes her approach could be part of a solution to homelessness.

"Do we need homes? Yes. We need jobs? Yes," she says. "But imagine if you didn't have anybody in your life who said, 'I'm really proud of you.' Back On My Feet does just that."

P, R, S, T

2008-04-08T07:36:00.000-06:00

P

Pride
The pride in finishing a marathon is much greater than all the pain endured during the marathon.

R

Race Day
Don't do anything on race day that you haven't done in training, particularly during the long runs. Don’t' wear new shoes that you haven't trained in before. Don’t wear shorts and singlet that you might have bought the day before at the Expo. Don't eat or drink anything different from what you've eaten or drunk before or during your training runs. Don't, don't, don't, if you want to do.

Seth's note:
And don't eat spicy food the night before.

Regrets
Running a marathon is a good way to cancel many of the "regrets" people carry with them: the fact that they never enrolled in medical school, or invested in that can't-miss-stock, or let that sensitive guy or gal slip out of their lives. Running a marathon signifies a commitment, and once you cross that finish line (regardless of time), nobody can take the achievement away from you.

S

Support
Sometimes marathoners think that they can do everything on their own, but support from others is essential, everyone from volunteers and spectators along the course to a helpful spouse who minds the kids while you train.

T

26 Miles
Running 26 miles at any pace is tough on the body. That's one reason I don't recommend going that far in practice. Long run with a maximum length of 20 miles are more than sufficient to get most runners ready for a marathon. Inspiration during the race itself, plus the energy you store during a taper of several weeks, will permit you to jump the extra 6 miles to the finish line.

Week 14 really late and Week 15

2008-04-08T07:32:00.000-06:00

I just keeping dropping miles. This is week is the lowest it has been in awhile. I will be running my marathon pretty soon! It is going to be interesting.

Total mileage for Week 15: 19 miles

Monday: 3 miles
Wednesday: 5 miles
Thursday: 3 miles
Saturday: 8 miles

This was the total for last week. I was traveling on Thursday so I ran on Friday. My long run in Ashland on Saturday was really good.

Total mileage for Week 14: 27 miles

Monday: 8 miles
Wednesday: 8 miles
Friday: 5 miles
Saturday: 9 miles

J, M, N

2008-03-30T16:24:00.001-06:00

Here are more quotes.

J

Just Do It
What you tell yourself on race day when you arrive at the starting line feeling you're undertrained.

Seth's note:
Jen you asked for it and here it is "J"

M

Marathon
The marathon is 26 miles 385 yards, or 42.2 kilometers for those who live in the metric world. But it is more than a measured distance along a road. The marathon is also a way of life, a statement, and the measure by which many of us define ourselves.

The Marathon
It's not a race; it's a state of mind.

Mistakes
Learn from you mistakes; otherwise, you will be destroyed by them.

Motivation
Motivation cannot be purchased. It does not come packaged and ready to use. It has to come from within.

Myself
Running a marathon is a "me" activity, something you do for "myself." It takes extra time to train. It precludes your participation in 5-K's and triathlons and other activities that you like. It forces you to run more miles than maybe you really enjoy. It causes fatigue and sore muscles and requires that you rest more. It takes you away from family obligations and non-running friends. And it can cost money, not only in entry fees, but in travel expenses. But running a marathon can be fulfilling beyond all your expectations, so do it for the myself in you.

N

Negative Splits
Run the second half of the marathon faster than the first half (2:01 + 1:29 = 3:30), and you achieve "negative splits." This is a rewarding way to run, since in the closing miles you will pass a lot more runners (many of them walking) than will pass you.

Negative Thoughts
Everybody has bad days and bad workouts, when running gets ugly, when you split times seem unconsciously slow, when you wonder why you ever go talked into training for this stupid marathon. Ho hum. Forget about it. You'll be better the next time you don your shoes. Don’t let negative thoughts intrude on your future runs or on the rest of your life, and don't let negative thoughts enter from the outside the world of running. Running is the hour each day when you get to think positive.

E, F, G, H

2008-03-22T21:44:00.000-06:00

Here is more from that book that I have been posting quotes from.

E

Easy
Running a marathon can never be easy. If it were easy, the challenge would be gone. But by learning to train properly, you can increase your enjoyment and make completing 26 miles 385 yards easier than you ever thought possible.

Enjoyment
Often the enjoyment in running a marathon is training before and the memory after.

F

Finishing
If you are a first-timer, finishing the marathon should be your only goal. Don’t set yourself artificial time goal that can only add stress to your race, both while preparing for it and afterward. Save time goals for later marathon. Regardless of a first-time runner's fitness, wisdom dictates running at least a half hour slower than his or her capability. That way, the first-timer is guaranteed two things: (1) a comfortable finish and (2) a Personal Record for the next marathon because the first one was so slow.

Seth's note:
I couldn't agree more the above statement. I am going to FINISH!

Focus
It you want to excel at the marathon, you have to focus exclusively on that event. Keep you eyes on your most important goal.

The Force
Once you make a commitment to run a marathon, you will discover yourself guided by an inner force that you previously may never have known existed. When things get tough, you can tap into this force. Once the marathon is over, you will know that you can get through whatever else life puts in your path.

Friendships
Special friendships emerge during the course of 26 miles. These friendships may be fleeting but are no less real. No introductions, no conversations. You run together, pushing each other over many miles. Sometimes you separate, only to come together later on. What you're in the chute - if your new friend is still around - you look over and say, "Great race," and head your separate ways.

G

Goals
If you set flexible goals, you can never be disappointed.

H
Happiness is. . . Hearing people say, "You ran how far?"

Seth's note:
This makes me smile every time. I wish that all of you could experience it, the running, the soreness, the nap afterwards, and the way people look at you when they say "You ran how far?"

First 18 down.

2008-03-22T21:38:00.000-06:00

I made it! I did 18 miles today. It was actually a really good run. I think in the top 5 of runs that I have done. I find it interesting that my long runs every week now are the best that I have for that week. I walk less and seem to get in the flow faster and for longer periods of time. It is great! After I finished today I was thinking that I will miss my training...which is funny because during the week with my other runs after I finish I don't think that. :) My long run this coming week is going to be split up. I am running a 5k at school and then will finish with 15 on my own. I can't pass up 30 extra credit points.

Total mileage for Week 13: 36 miles

Monday: 5 miles
Wednesday: 8 miles
Thursday: 5 miles
Saturday: 18 miles

One more mileage jump after today.

2008-03-22T13:39:00.000-06:00

I am about to go out for my first 18 mile run! This is the last jump I have in mileage before the marathon. My training is winding down. Can you believe it? In a few weeks I'll be getting up at 4:00 am or so to make my way up to SLC to run 26.2 miles! I just need to get over 18 first. :) Here I go.

The Wall

2008-03-16T08:52:00.002-06:00

The point when you have physically and psychologically run out of energy. Doesn't that sound like fun? This is something that has happen to a lot of runners during the marathon. Some people are able to work through it and others aren't and to me it is the thing that I am afraid of the most. I know that by drinking and pacing myself I can delay the wall. It is what I have been working on. I have already decided that I will walk through every water station during the marathon. There are 17 of them. I want to make sure that I have the time that I need to properly hydrate myself. The psychological side I need to work harder on but I think that I will be able to make it! I want to make it! I WILL MAKE IT!

Here is what NRMT says will happen at the wall.

"So, what is the answer to the question of what happens psychologically at the wall? Whatever you decide will happen, that's what. And what you have decided is that you are going to knock that wall down. You always do. You have been doing it every week. And you will do it again on marathon day. Because you are a marathoner."

Now if I can only get that to work for anatomy. I am an anatomist. I just made myself laugh a little bit. ;)

No more 16 milers.

2008-03-16T08:52:00.001-06:00

I finished my last 16 miler! Can you believe it? I was so proud of myself and excited to tell everyone when I first got into double digits.(And everything after that I won't lie) Now saying that I ran 16 miles is nothing. ;) All the mileage on my "shorter" days stays the same for the next two weeks. Gone are my 16 mile days. I will be adding 2 miles this Saturday to bring my total up to 18 miles. 18 miles! I didn't break 18 miles until the fourth week of my training and now I'm going to be doing that in one day. NRMT says that if I can run 18 miles I can run 26 miles 385 yards. We will see as the countdown is getting lower and lower by the day.

Total mileage for Week 12: 36 miles

Monday: 5 miles
Wednesday: 8 miles
Thursday: 5 miles
Saturday: 18 miles

Just for fun.
Total mileage: 263.26
Total time: 45:06
Avg. pace: 10:16/mi
Avg speed: 5.8 mph
Max speed: 10.4 mph
Estimated calories used: 39,520

Adding my own to the "D" section

2008-03-15T21:50:00.000-06:00

Don't eat spicy food the night before you do a long run. Because 2.5.-3.5 miles into it you are starting to figure out where you are going to go to the bathroom.

A mileage total.

2008-03-14T18:31:00.000-06:00

I thought I would check to see how much I have run thus far with my training.........

247.25

More book quotes

2008-03-14T18:03:00.001-06:00

Here is more from that book that I had mentioned.

B
Bad Patch
Frequently in races, runners begin to struggle. They lose rhythm. They experience fatigue not felt before. Their pace slows. Then, suddenly, they recover. The British have an expression for this. They call it going through a "bad patch." Bad patches may be as much psychological as physical. Everybody has them, even the elites. To be a Complete Runner, you need to learn to persevere through bad patches.

Breaks
It's a good idea to walk before being forced to do so, both in long workouts and in races - particularly marathons. Plan your walking breaks. One strategy would be to run 1 mile; then walk 200 meters (1/8 mile) before stating to run again. Or run 10 minutes and walk 1 minute. Doing it this way is much easier (and more beneficial) than running 20 miles and walking the last 6 in a marathon.

C
The Club
If running were easy, everyone would be doing it. Marathoners belong to a very exclusive club.

Cockiness
New York coach Bob Glover claims he did his first marathon on a bet and hit the wall because of youthful cockiness. He now tells runners to take the marathon seriously and train to beat it; otherwise, it will beat you.

Crowd Support
Never underestimate the power of the crowd. People cheering can inspire you to efforts you never dreamed of. But don't become too inspired by the cheers of the crowd, particularly in the early miles. You don't want the enthusiasm rained on you by spectators to push you faster than your carefully planned pace. The crowds will get you through the first 20 miles, but from that point on, you need to dig down deep and earn victory for yourself.

D
Dreams
Keep you dream in front of you. Never let go of it regardless of how far-fetched it might seem.

Drinking
Runners understand the importance of drinking in a marathon, particularly on a warm day. But you also need to drink while training. Not only will drinking fluids make your workouts more comfortable, it also will teach you how to drink and how often to drink. Drinking on the run is a science - and so you need to practice, particularly during long training runs.

Who said books can't be fun?

2008-03-10T21:52:00.000-06:00

I am writing a research paper on the physiological part of running a marathon. When getting books at the library I came across a book called Marathoning A to Z. I really can't use the book for my paper but I have found a few tidbits that I have found interesting and so should you. ;) I am going to be posting them everyday or every few days. So I'll start with one that seemed to go along with today's run.

B
Bad Days
Nobody said training for a marathon was easy. Heat and humidity, or a tough course, or too little sleep the night before, or some combination of factors, can convert what should be an easy workout into a struggle. When circumstances conspire against you, relax and throw your training plan out the window - at least for that day. For every bad day running, there is an infinite number of better days.

It is getting closer!

2008-03-10T21:33:00.001-06:00

This week is that same distances as last week. No changes. :) The long run this past week was pretty good. Monday and Wednesday runs last week were really good. Monday was 5 miles in 44:46. Wednesday was 8 miles in 1:10:54. Pretty good for me.

Today was 5 miles again. It wasn't as good as last week but still not bad considering that I walked a few times.

Total mileage for Week 11: 34 miles

Monday: 5 miles
Wednesday: 8 miles
Thursday: 5 miles
Saturday: 16 miles

The course

2008-03-06T07:34:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of the 2007 course that is being used again this year.

Week ten mileage a little late.

2008-03-05T19:12:00.000-07:00

Total mileage for Week 10: 34 miles

Monday: 5 miles
Wednesday: 8 miles
Thursday: 5 miles
Saturday: 16 miles

New shoes

2008-02-27T07:37:00.000-07:00

I bought these last Friday. I will be running my marathon in them. I just have to break them in first.

Halfway there!

2008-02-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

I finished the long run for week 8 yesterday. I was really worried about it all week. My runs on Monday and Wednesday didn't feel very good. I wasn't running as well as I know I could. They just didn't seem to flow like they should have. Maybe I was still getting over that 12 mile run from the Saturday before? Well anyway Thursday was better. It was really good. Saturday was 14 miles! That is a lot. . . over a half marathon. I did it! IT FELT GREAT! I think it could be the best run that I have ever had. I was able to keep a 10:30-11:00 minute mile pace. Didn't walk. But did have a few breaks. It was nice to see Tavia at the halfway point. That was nice boost to help with the rest of the run. I did it in a little over 2:30. Which I think is pretty good.

Total mileage for Week 9: 31 miles

Monday: 4 miles
Wednesday: 7 miles
Thursday: 4 miles
Saturday: 16 miles

A few pictures

2008-02-18T07:51:00.001-07:00

This picture was taken before my first training run. Look at all my new stuff. :) Well not all of it was new, just the gloves, the ear warmer, and my GPS watch.

This picture was from a really cold day last week. I didn't take the picture fast enough, if I had you would have seen that my hair was frozen! But you still get the idea with some snow.

Week 8 is about to start.

2008-02-18T07:18:00.000-07:00

At the end of this week I will be halfway to running my first marathon. Last week (week 7) was .2 mile short of running a marathon for the week. This week I will run a marathon. Just not all at one time. The Saturday run will again be a milestone as I run 14 miles and will also give me a rough estimate of what my marathon time could be. Not that I am going for a time goal but when trying to figure out other things that I have going on that day (an Anatomy Lab final) it will be helpful to know how much time it should take. As the runs get longer I really need to work harder on the mental tools that NRMT teaches. I know that as the mileage gets higher the easier it will be to given in and give up on my runs. I need to keep on keeping on. I want to finish, I need all the help I can get.

Total mileage for Week 8: 28 miles

Monday: 4 miles
Wednesday: 6 miles
Thursday: 4 miles
Saturday: 14 miles