After my run on Friday:
I finished work on Friday and knocked out the laundry pretty quick. However after finishing the laundry I dropped my work laptop and broke it. Although I did not need it for my weekend in Philly – it was not the way I wanted to start my race weekend. I packed up all my running gear- double checked I had both pairs of Kinvaras with me (my yellow ones would have been lonely if I left them home), had a nice dinner and then went to bed.
Sautrday:
Alarm went off at 6am and I was up and having my coffee within 5 minutes. My family and I were out the door by 7. We made a quick stop off at Panera for breakfast (didn’t seem right not to start the race weekend without an orange scone) – and then we were off to Philly. Very quick drive down with no excitement (even through New York City) – which was nice. Got to Philly around 11:30 and headed over to my in laws for some lunch.
After lunch I walked over to the expo to get my bib and such. The expo was really nice –lots of people there. This by far was the biggest expo I had ever been too. I walked around a bit picked up a couple things. At 3pm I met up with some fellow Milford Road Runners that were down to run the marathon as well. After a couple pictures we all went our separate ways. I was amazingly tired for it being only 4pm. My way was to the hotel (Thomas Bond Bed and Breakfast) to check in – then back to in laws so I could eat. After a nice dinner at the South Street Diner (which ended up being on the race course) – we went back to the hotel so I could get ready for the race – and more importantly sleep.
Sunday:
RACE DAY!! – After a decent (not great) night of sleep – I woke up 5 minutes before the alarm went off (which I’m sure my family appreciated) and was getting myself together. Had my morning bagel and a diet soda to pep me up. Slowly I got myself into race gear and in my throw away clothes and headed down stairs for my cab. The lady that worked at the bed and breakfast had coffee ready when I got downstairs and a bagged breakfast for me with scones and other pastries in it (she had others for the other racers too – such a nice touch). Cab showed up right on time and after a five minute drive I was staring at the art museum at about 5:30 in the morning. It was pretty cold still and the moon was shining bright right about the museum (wish I had my camera with me). After christening a fresh porta potty – I worked my way over to the fleet of UPS trucks to check in my bag. By the time I had that all done- the sun was starting to peak through and the numbers of runners and spectators started to increase like crazy.
I found the green corral and the 3:40 pace leader – and tried to just stay warm (I had shed my throw away clothes already). There was a definite excitement in the air – announcements over the loudspeakers, friends chatting, perfect strangers introducing themselves….it was great. I talked with a couple people, – (one was a girl named Penny from Brooklyn who ran a 3:37 and qualified for Boston!) - which is not in my nature as I am usually quiet and shy at races. Philadelphia has a wave start – which was great. When it was time for our corral to go – it was still very busy but I cant even imagine if everyone went at the same time.
As I started the 3:40 pace balloons pulled away from me and I lost site of them. I didn’t really worry too much as I was only going to use the pace group as a guide (although I would have loved to stick with them the whole race). Streets were pretty narrow and running room was at a premium. A runner next to me, we’ll call him Doc as I cant remember his name – just that he was a Doctor at Temple, starting chatting with me. We realized we both wanted to run with the 3:40 pace group and since we both lost sight of it decided to just run in a pace group of two. In between miles two and three we caught sight of the balloons up ahead – but decided it was in our best interest to not chase them down. We were doing fine on our own at an 8:15 pace or so. At mile 5 – I saw my wife and father in law waving, no pictures though as I was just running too fast (and on the other side of the street from them). I took my first gel at the water stop after mile 5. Through the city was just an amazing place to run – so many people all cheering, giving out high 5s…it was just great. And with our names on our bibs – you’d get the occasional stranger yelling out specifically to you. Such a boost.
We finally caught up to the pace group around mile 8 or so and I settled into a nice focused pace. Even though the course is billed as a flat course – it does have some fairly decent hills in it that you have to watch out for – and they start around mile 9. Mile 11 I took another gel. As we pulled around the front of the art museum for the half marathoners to split off – the road got pretty narrow and congested as everyone started to make sure they were in the right spots for the split. Once we were passed the split the roads opened up a bit and we all had a bit more room to run. The crowd through here was a bit sparse – so I decided to disconnect the brain for a bit and just focus on running form and breathing. As my Garmin beeped 15 miles – the lead runner ran past us on his final stretch- he was flying. We all cheered for him as he went passed….
With the brain disconnected and me being focused just on running – I don’t remember too much from mile 14-18 except – there was a bridge, a downhill, me passing the pace group leader as he watered some grass, then back uphill and across the bridge again. I took my last gel shortly after the bridge, then kept an eye out for the final turn around point. I decided to forgo the nice offers of free beer around mile 19. Finally the turn around came – at this point the pace group was about a 1/10th of a mile in front of me- and I decided I wasn’t going to have it in me to keep up with them. As they turned around the corner I pointed at the pace leader and said thanks to him and that was the last I remember seeing them. I was still feeling fairly good even though the 3:40 wasn’t going to happen. I started watching the outbound runners and just zoned out to the all the runners going by me. Then out of nowhere I heard my name and an arm came out – my friend Alecia was running at me on the outbound side – we exchange high 5s and yelled at each other. That was just the boost I needed to get through the next couple miles.
At mile 22 I got hungry and started to cramp when I tried to hold my focused pace. (side bar: I keep saying focused pace as I was not looking at Garmin pace anymore and just figuring my splits from the race clocks). Then I felt that the wall could be coming – so instead of trying to run right into it and have it knock me back, I decided to slow up a bit find a comfortable pace and just sit on that until I felt a bit better. Even though I slowed up – I realized around mile 23 (where I had to DNF at Cape Cod) I was going to finish this race. I started to get choked up – which is a big deal for me – as I have been told Im a robot when it comes to my emotions. A bit after mile 24 I was really hungry – and out of the blue (I’m pretty sure I didn’t hallucinate this) there was a group of kids handing out gummy bears. THANK YOU! Although I only ate 4 it was just what I needed. I started to pick up the pace again (or so it felt). Then the crowd started to get thicker and thicker again as we were within a mile+ of the finish. With a mile to go the crowd was basically on top of the course cheering us all along and I picked it up again. It was so surreal having that many people so close to you cheering you on. “You got this Mark” and “Finish strong Mark” were the ones I remember the most. As I made the final little turn around the loop to the finish line I realized I had this smile plastered on my face. I don’t even remember looking at the clock or anything as I ran through the chute – but I do remember the feeling of just uncontrollable happiness.
As I got my mylar blanket and my finisher’s medal – I heard my wife yelling out my name. She walked with me to get my food and my bag. She was so happy to be able to see me finish AND get a picture of it as well. (With a 7 year old kid sometimes race finishes are missed by last minute trips to the porta potty).
I’m so happy still that I was able to finish this race after what happened last year at Cape Cod. I knew heading into it that a 3:40 goal was going to be tough to maintain – and really don’t care that I missed it. The 3:46:29 is a 13 minute PR and I couldn’t be more excited. The smile has yet to leave my face.
Pictures --> http://picasaweb.google.com/majorcane/PhiladelphiaMarathon#
Showing posts with label race notes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label race notes. Show all posts
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Sunday, November 7, 2010
End of Taper Week 1
First taper week is done. Phew....Got some good runs in this week. I even ended the week with a long run with a 5k race in the middle. The one negative for the week is I spent Friday with either a stomach bug or some food poisoning - either way I definitely expelled more calories on Friday than I could take in. Also by the end of the day was extremely dehydrated (any fluids I took in got deposited into the porcelain throne as well). Saturday I spent the day refueling and re-hydrating so I could try and run on Sunday.
The race went well - I was able to maintain a comfortably hard pace and run a 7:36 pace. Far from a PR - but with the 5.8 mile warm up we did and being sick I will take it.
This coming week Ill be cutting back my mileage a bit more and start to make my Marathon checklist (which is right up my alley - gotta love making lists). Things to look for - places to eat near the convention center, a quiet family friendly place to get dinner on Saturday, look for some throw away clothes for the start, look at Philadelphia weather and figure out what to bring with me, buy Gels and other food stuffs.....Im sure there are many other things to list out - so feel free to remind me of things I should bring.
Total runs: 6 (include the long run on Sunday broken into 3 segments)
Distance: 29.02 miles
Time: 4:14:45
Pace: 8:46
The race went well - I was able to maintain a comfortably hard pace and run a 7:36 pace. Far from a PR - but with the 5.8 mile warm up we did and being sick I will take it.
This coming week Ill be cutting back my mileage a bit more and start to make my Marathon checklist (which is right up my alley - gotta love making lists). Things to look for - places to eat near the convention center, a quiet family friendly place to get dinner on Saturday, look for some throw away clothes for the start, look at Philadelphia weather and figure out what to bring with me, buy Gels and other food stuffs.....Im sure there are many other things to list out - so feel free to remind me of things I should bring.
Total runs: 6 (include the long run on Sunday broken into 3 segments)
Distance: 29.02 miles
Time: 4:14:45
Pace: 8:46
Monday, September 6, 2010
New Haven Road Race 20k - Race Report
Hello Week 8!
Today was the New Haven Road Race 20k. I had no idea how today would go since I ran 18 just two days ago and the last few days allergy-wise have been miserable. I figured I wanted to be around 8:00-8:24 per mile. Woke up around 6am - had some breakfast, got myself ready and walked to the green (~1.5 miles). Once I got there I to my number pinned to my shirt and the D-tag on to my Kinvaras. Chatted a bit with some Milford Road Runners at our tent - then off for a quick warm-up and potty stop. Once I got through the bathroom line - I had only a few minutes to get to the start.
I lined up a ways back and shortly after I got settled in a spot - the gun went off. I took it easy for the first 1/2 mile (I really had to as it was very busy). After the crowd cleared a bit I found a comfortable pace and tried to just sit on it. Just around mile four I noticed my good friend Chuck a few steps ahead of me. From that point on we ran the race together. He said he wanted to run 8s even - but that didn't happen. We seemed to alternate each mile which of us would push the other along. At a water stop at mile 10.5 or so he decided to take a breather and drink his drink instead of spilling it all and he waved me on. As I made the final turn down Whitney I saw my wife and son in the crowd. I made a quick detour to give my son a kiss - then back to the course I went. Once back on the course I started looking for Chuck again - seeing he was only 20 feet or so behind me I held up until he caught up to me. We finished together which was great.
Overall I felt great - esp coming off the 18 miler. I figured I could have picked up the pace a little overall but running with a friend today and having fun was what it was about.
Garmin Times
8:02
7;49
7:49
7:39
7:50
7:43
7:38
7:56
7:40
8:06
7:51
7:36
3:31 (for .49 miles @ 7:14 pace)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/47842084
Today was the New Haven Road Race 20k. I had no idea how today would go since I ran 18 just two days ago and the last few days allergy-wise have been miserable. I figured I wanted to be around 8:00-8:24 per mile. Woke up around 6am - had some breakfast, got myself ready and walked to the green (~1.5 miles). Once I got there I to my number pinned to my shirt and the D-tag on to my Kinvaras. Chatted a bit with some Milford Road Runners at our tent - then off for a quick warm-up and potty stop. Once I got through the bathroom line - I had only a few minutes to get to the start.
I lined up a ways back and shortly after I got settled in a spot - the gun went off. I took it easy for the first 1/2 mile (I really had to as it was very busy). After the crowd cleared a bit I found a comfortable pace and tried to just sit on it. Just around mile four I noticed my good friend Chuck a few steps ahead of me. From that point on we ran the race together. He said he wanted to run 8s even - but that didn't happen. We seemed to alternate each mile which of us would push the other along. At a water stop at mile 10.5 or so he decided to take a breather and drink his drink instead of spilling it all and he waved me on. As I made the final turn down Whitney I saw my wife and son in the crowd. I made a quick detour to give my son a kiss - then back to the course I went. Once back on the course I started looking for Chuck again - seeing he was only 20 feet or so behind me I held up until he caught up to me. We finished together which was great.
Overall I felt great - esp coming off the 18 miler. I figured I could have picked up the pace a little overall but running with a friend today and having fun was what it was about.
Garmin Times
8:02
7;49
7:49
7:39
7:50
7:43
7:38
7:56
7:40
8:06
7:51
7:36
3:31 (for .49 miles @ 7:14 pace)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/47842084
Friday, August 6, 2010
Moss Park Forest Run - 10k+5k aka Distance Dare
Marathon training today called for eight miles with four at half marathon pace. Since running in the heat and humidity of Florida is challenging, I figured if I raced this workout I'd be more likely to complete it. In doing some searching, I found the Moss Park Forest Run which was about 25 minutes from my parents place. For this race, you could choose between a 10k or a 5k - or you could do both as part of their Distance Dare. Since I needed the mileage - I did both.
My dad and I headed over around 5pm for the 7pm start. When we got to Moss Park - the clouds darkened and some thunder could be heard. The cloud cover was welcome as it was very hot - after picking up my race bib and transponder I did a quick (and sweaty) warm up. I overheard someone talking to another runner and he said that this course was a slow course and not to expect fast times and not to try to get your road times.
After listening to the 10k pre-race meeting (mostly about the course and weather updates) we were off. My goal for this was to finish the 10k in about 48 minutes or a 7:43 pace. The course was mostly packed trail/sand and very little road (through the parking lots) and was a two looper. First mile clocked in (by my Garmin) at 7:02 -- oooopsie. I dropped the pace a little to make sure I had enough in the tank to finish the 10k (and the upcoming 5k). I passed a few people and was only passed by one (the eventual overall women's winner). Finished the first loop of the course in twenty two minutes and change. Second loop was much harder as the sun came out in full force - I was able to hold a good pace and finish relatively strong. Once I finished, I had about 25 minutes to recover, rehydrate before the start of the 5k.
After some water (and a shirt change) - I headed over to the 5k pre-race meeting. By now it was after 8pm and getting dark. The knowledge of the course from the 10k definitely helped out. I felt as I just finished catching my breath and feeling relatively recovered- and they blew the horn to start. Not much to write about here - as a) same course as the 10k b) I was alone for all of it after the start and c)it was pitch very dark. A couple times I felt my foot in a pothole or on even ground and the ankle start to turn. Thank goodness no major ankle turn. I was able to finish mostly strong - and in one piece.
My dad and I hung around for the award ceremony - and I'm glad I did as I got 1st in my age group for both the 10k and 5k.
From a marathon training perspective - success!
From a race perspective - I've run better (and certainly faster) races before - but factoring in the heat/humidity and the terrain, I'll take it.
After returning to my parents place - I ate some food - and the hopped in the pool to assist in the cool down. I couldn't stay in very long as I was meeting people at 5am to run my long run with. Not sure how far Ill be going for the long run - but I plan on taking it very easy and listening very close to what my body tells me.
Pictures my dad took can be found here.
My dad and I headed over around 5pm for the 7pm start. When we got to Moss Park - the clouds darkened and some thunder could be heard. The cloud cover was welcome as it was very hot - after picking up my race bib and transponder I did a quick (and sweaty) warm up. I overheard someone talking to another runner and he said that this course was a slow course and not to expect fast times and not to try to get your road times.
After listening to the 10k pre-race meeting (mostly about the course and weather updates) we were off. My goal for this was to finish the 10k in about 48 minutes or a 7:43 pace. The course was mostly packed trail/sand and very little road (through the parking lots) and was a two looper. First mile clocked in (by my Garmin) at 7:02 -- oooopsie. I dropped the pace a little to make sure I had enough in the tank to finish the 10k (and the upcoming 5k). I passed a few people and was only passed by one (the eventual overall women's winner). Finished the first loop of the course in twenty two minutes and change. Second loop was much harder as the sun came out in full force - I was able to hold a good pace and finish relatively strong. Once I finished, I had about 25 minutes to recover, rehydrate before the start of the 5k.
After some water (and a shirt change) - I headed over to the 5k pre-race meeting. By now it was after 8pm and getting dark. The knowledge of the course from the 10k definitely helped out. I felt as I just finished catching my breath and feeling relatively recovered- and they blew the horn to start. Not much to write about here - as a) same course as the 10k b) I was alone for all of it after the start and c)it was pitch very dark. A couple times I felt my foot in a pothole or on even ground and the ankle start to turn. Thank goodness no major ankle turn. I was able to finish mostly strong - and in one piece.
My dad and I hung around for the award ceremony - and I'm glad I did as I got 1st in my age group for both the 10k and 5k.
From a marathon training perspective - success!
From a race perspective - I've run better (and certainly faster) races before - but factoring in the heat/humidity and the terrain, I'll take it.
After returning to my parents place - I ate some food - and the hopped in the pool to assist in the cool down. I couldn't stay in very long as I was meeting people at 5am to run my long run with. Not sure how far Ill be going for the long run - but I plan on taking it very easy and listening very close to what my body tells me.
Pictures my dad took can be found here.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Sea Legs Shuffle 10 Mile Race Report
Today was the Sea Legs Shuffle 10 Miler in Guilford, CT. Marathon training today was a 13 mile run with 8 at marathon goal pace (8:24 for me). I was torn on how to handle this - race the full time miles or do the prescribed distance (with warm up and cool down) at the prescribed pace. Since I have a tendency to overthink things (my wife may disagree) - I finally went with the just run at a decent pace and see what happens strategy. Course was fairly hilly - weather was great - and there was quite a bit of shade.
Matt (who is very fast) wasnt feeling so hot at the start of the race - so he hung back with me for the half mile. Once his "issues" seemed to settle he took off. The first three miles seemed to just coast by - but then the hills began. I was still feeling good until about mile seven when I got hungry and the 5am wakeup started to hit me. I started to run with someone named "Bill" (not in the final results so I may have hallucinated him) at this point. Half way through mile ate the fuzziness shook off - but I was definitely still hungry. The final turn back to the beach was a very welcome site. As we came into the final stretch I picked it up as best I could - there wasn't much there.
Here's the official results:
Place: 122
Div: 21
Bib: 47
Time: 1:16:35
Pace: 7:40
"Official" Garmin Splits
7:17
7:25
7:31
7:30
7:54
7:51
7:49
7:37
7:48
7:37
0:23 for (.06 miles for 7:01 pace)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/42763814
Here are some pictures from the race.....
Matt (who is very fast) wasnt feeling so hot at the start of the race - so he hung back with me for the half mile. Once his "issues" seemed to settle he took off. The first three miles seemed to just coast by - but then the hills began. I was still feeling good until about mile seven when I got hungry and the 5am wakeup started to hit me. I started to run with someone named "Bill" (not in the final results so I may have hallucinated him) at this point. Half way through mile ate the fuzziness shook off - but I was definitely still hungry. The final turn back to the beach was a very welcome site. As we came into the final stretch I picked it up as best I could - there wasn't much there.
Here's the official results:
Place: 122
Div: 21
Bib: 47
Time: 1:16:35
Pace: 7:40
"Official" Garmin Splits
7:17
7:25
7:31
7:30
7:54
7:51
7:49
7:37
7:48
7:37
0:23 for (.06 miles for 7:01 pace)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/42763814
Here are some pictures from the race.....
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Boilermaker 15k 2010 Results
Today was the Boilermaker in my home town of Utica, NY. My schedule didnt allow for me to run it this year. Ive only actually run it once (2008) but can't wait to get back soon to race it again (hopefully next year)
Here are some results of friends of mine that did race today. Great job everyone! (If i missed anyone please let me know)
Bob Bozek - 1:21:48 / 8:47
Chris Mirabella - 1:32:01 / 9:53
Nicole Smith - 1:32:18 / 9:55
Brian Smith - 1:32:18 / 9:55
Melissa Hollenbeck - 1:39:19 / 10:40
Eric Socha - 1:41:23 / 10:53
Jason Carrier - 1:53:32 / 12:11
Jeremy Hartmann - 1:53:32 / 12:11
Boilermaker 2010 Official Results
Here are some results of friends of mine that did race today. Great job everyone! (If i missed anyone please let me know)
Bob Bozek - 1:21:48 / 8:47
Chris Mirabella - 1:32:01 / 9:53
Nicole Smith - 1:32:18 / 9:55
Brian Smith - 1:32:18 / 9:55
Melissa Hollenbeck - 1:39:19 / 10:40
Eric Socha - 1:41:23 / 10:53
Jason Carrier - 1:53:32 / 12:11
Jeremy Hartmann - 1:53:32 / 12:11
Boilermaker 2010 Official Results
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Fairfield Half Marathon Race Report
Today was the Fairfield Half Marathon in Fairfield (duh), CT. This race is billed as a challenging one - and from what I'm told by some veterans of the race - a HOT one. Today's race lived up to that description 100%.
Pre-Race
Based on the email from the race and stories from running friends about parking - I decided that I needed to get up and get going this morning. I was asleep last night by 9:45 easily (even asleep before my six year old) - so waking up at 5am today was not an issue. I even woke up before the alarm went off which I think made my wife happy. Cup of coffee (gotta wake up - and get things....well umm...moving), a bowl of Honey Nut Cheerios and a big glass of water. Since I had packed my bag the night before there was very little to do but just get my sleepy ass out the door. One good thing about being on the road (especially 95 in the New Haven area) at 5:45 am is there is NO traffic and if you have ever driven through New Haven 5:45am seems to be the only time EVER that this happens. Getting to Jennings Beach was very easy and even though I got the parking lot at 6:10am I was not alone. Seems like many people made the trip early to get the prime parking at the beach parking lot. I took advantage of the fact that I was early and went to the clean porta-potties (I wont go into the details of what went on in there). After I picked up my number/chip, and my tech shirt I went back to the car to wait. Then, what ended up being my 1st of many trips back, I headed to the porta-potty to pee. Seems like I had a case of nervous bladder - or - I was perfectly hydrated so anything I took in pushed that much out - not sure which, but I'm leaning towards nervous bladder. Although I had to keep going, I made sure to keep taking in fluids. (at Branford Road race last week - I was a slacker with fluid intake). Around 7:45 I went out for an easy mile warm up run along part of the course. I was going to meet up with Bob and other DailyMilers for a picture at 8am but once again - had to "go". The lines were really long at this point, but I was able to finish and get to the start with a few minutes to spare. I was able to find some Milford Road Runner friends at the start and lined up with them. (at this point I still have no pacing plan for the race - just wanted as even as possible). Temperature at this point is already 80 with humidity around 80% and no substantial clouds to speak of.
Race
Even though there were seperate starts for the men and the women - the start was very crowded. Since I had no real plan, I started pretty far back - and maybe a little too far as I had to do quite a bit of passing and jockying around people to find a spot to run in. I passed wisely and tried not to add too much distance by moving too much laterally. Right around a 1/2 mile in things eased up a bit and I was able to settle into a pace. I had yet to look at my Garmin as I was trying to let my body find the pace instead of me tinkering and searching for it based on what the Garmin said. As I came up to the 1st mile marker I felt I had a good pace going - just to the comfortable side of uncomortable. Garmin beeped exactly at the first mile mark - 8:03. Since I seemed to found a pace/effort that I was happy with I totally shut off my brain for most of the rest of the race. The only thing I tried to focus on were (in order) a) staying hydrated and cool b) my running form and c) the hills (and there were quite a few to think about). The first main hill came around mile three - as I came up to it I thought of The Running Laminator's post on how to run hills. It came in handy - thanks Lam! Since I skipped the first water station that was around mile 2 - I was sure to grab a sip of water at the stop after mile three. A lot of people were out with their hoses, fire trucks spraying water - and I definetly took advantage. Over the next few miles there were quite a few spectators cheering us on, and kids to give high fives to - which helped keep me moving along. Brain was still mostly shut off until somewhere between miles 7 and 8 (I think - it could have easily been mile 9) I could hear Hendrix's Foxy Lady. The band from last week's Branford race was at this one too - as I came by them they went into Purple Haze (same song I heard last week) - which really snapped me awake and I started to pick it up a little. There were two little smaller hills around mile 10 but they did their damage. Around mile 11 I slipped back into my "dead brain" running. Even though I was zoned out - I still had enough wits to keep getting water throughout the race - 1/2 the cup got drank, 1/2 got dumped on my head. I stayed in this fog right until the very end when I heard Betsy yell out my name. I was so happy to see a friendly face - then as I ran into the parking lot I was so happy to see the finish line. Got my finishers medal and started to stagger to get some water.
Post Race
I couldn't hang out long after the race today - my Dr. Wife had some expierements in the lab to attend to and science experiments do not care that I had a race today. So - I got my water, headed to the beach for something sweet to drink and something to eat. Headed back to the car - got changed into some dry clothes and headed back home. Recovery started at Archie Moore's with some fried mozarella, a Bar Burger (bacon and sauteed onions mmmmmm) and most importantly a Guinness.
Overall a really good time today, a well paced race by me (my first in a long time) and a great way to end the first six months of the year. Garmin did read 13.19 miles for today so I did do a little extra running at some point. Today was the ninth race of the year for me - last year I did a total of nine. I plan on resting tomorrow - and then start focusing on getting ready for Philadelphia Marathon training - which starts July 18th.
Garmin Stats:
Total disance: 13.19 miles
Total time: 1:46:28
Average pace: 8:04
Splits
8:03
7:44
8:00
7:53
8:15
8:18
8:31
7:50
8:03
8:10
8:14
8:00
7:54
1:27 (for .19 miles @ 7:31 pace)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/38343765
Pre-Race
Based on the email from the race and stories from running friends about parking - I decided that I needed to get up and get going this morning. I was asleep last night by 9:45 easily (even asleep before my six year old) - so waking up at 5am today was not an issue. I even woke up before the alarm went off which I think made my wife happy. Cup of coffee (gotta wake up - and get things....well umm...moving), a bowl of Honey Nut Cheerios and a big glass of water. Since I had packed my bag the night before there was very little to do but just get my sleepy ass out the door. One good thing about being on the road (especially 95 in the New Haven area) at 5:45 am is there is NO traffic and if you have ever driven through New Haven 5:45am seems to be the only time EVER that this happens. Getting to Jennings Beach was very easy and even though I got the parking lot at 6:10am I was not alone. Seems like many people made the trip early to get the prime parking at the beach parking lot. I took advantage of the fact that I was early and went to the clean porta-potties (I wont go into the details of what went on in there). After I picked up my number/chip, and my tech shirt I went back to the car to wait. Then, what ended up being my 1st of many trips back, I headed to the porta-potty to pee. Seems like I had a case of nervous bladder - or - I was perfectly hydrated so anything I took in pushed that much out - not sure which, but I'm leaning towards nervous bladder. Although I had to keep going, I made sure to keep taking in fluids. (at Branford Road race last week - I was a slacker with fluid intake). Around 7:45 I went out for an easy mile warm up run along part of the course. I was going to meet up with Bob and other DailyMilers for a picture at 8am but once again - had to "go". The lines were really long at this point, but I was able to finish and get to the start with a few minutes to spare. I was able to find some Milford Road Runner friends at the start and lined up with them. (at this point I still have no pacing plan for the race - just wanted as even as possible). Temperature at this point is already 80 with humidity around 80% and no substantial clouds to speak of.
Race
Even though there were seperate starts for the men and the women - the start was very crowded. Since I had no real plan, I started pretty far back - and maybe a little too far as I had to do quite a bit of passing and jockying around people to find a spot to run in. I passed wisely and tried not to add too much distance by moving too much laterally. Right around a 1/2 mile in things eased up a bit and I was able to settle into a pace. I had yet to look at my Garmin as I was trying to let my body find the pace instead of me tinkering and searching for it based on what the Garmin said. As I came up to the 1st mile marker I felt I had a good pace going - just to the comfortable side of uncomortable. Garmin beeped exactly at the first mile mark - 8:03. Since I seemed to found a pace/effort that I was happy with I totally shut off my brain for most of the rest of the race. The only thing I tried to focus on were (in order) a) staying hydrated and cool b) my running form and c) the hills (and there were quite a few to think about). The first main hill came around mile three - as I came up to it I thought of The Running Laminator's post on how to run hills. It came in handy - thanks Lam! Since I skipped the first water station that was around mile 2 - I was sure to grab a sip of water at the stop after mile three. A lot of people were out with their hoses, fire trucks spraying water - and I definetly took advantage. Over the next few miles there were quite a few spectators cheering us on, and kids to give high fives to - which helped keep me moving along. Brain was still mostly shut off until somewhere between miles 7 and 8 (I think - it could have easily been mile 9) I could hear Hendrix's Foxy Lady. The band from last week's Branford race was at this one too - as I came by them they went into Purple Haze (same song I heard last week) - which really snapped me awake and I started to pick it up a little. There were two little smaller hills around mile 10 but they did their damage. Around mile 11 I slipped back into my "dead brain" running. Even though I was zoned out - I still had enough wits to keep getting water throughout the race - 1/2 the cup got drank, 1/2 got dumped on my head. I stayed in this fog right until the very end when I heard Betsy yell out my name. I was so happy to see a friendly face - then as I ran into the parking lot I was so happy to see the finish line. Got my finishers medal and started to stagger to get some water.
Post Race
I couldn't hang out long after the race today - my Dr. Wife had some expierements in the lab to attend to and science experiments do not care that I had a race today. So - I got my water, headed to the beach for something sweet to drink and something to eat. Headed back to the car - got changed into some dry clothes and headed back home. Recovery started at Archie Moore's with some fried mozarella, a Bar Burger (bacon and sauteed onions mmmmmm) and most importantly a Guinness.
Overall a really good time today, a well paced race by me (my first in a long time) and a great way to end the first six months of the year. Garmin did read 13.19 miles for today so I did do a little extra running at some point. Today was the ninth race of the year for me - last year I did a total of nine. I plan on resting tomorrow - and then start focusing on getting ready for Philadelphia Marathon training - which starts July 18th.
Garmin Stats:
Total disance: 13.19 miles
Total time: 1:46:28
Average pace: 8:04
Splits
8:03
7:44
8:00
7:53
8:15
8:18
8:31
7:50
8:03
8:10
8:14
8:00
7:54
1:27 (for .19 miles @ 7:31 pace)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/38343765
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Branford Road Race 2010 - Official Results
Place: 191
Div Place: 38
Division: M3039
Bib#: 89
Age: 34
Clock Time: 36:34
Chip Time: 36:27
Pace: 7:19
http://www.jbsports.com/bran5mile2010.htm
Div Place: 38
Division: M3039
Bib#: 89
Age: 34
Clock Time: 36:34
Chip Time: 36:27
Pace: 7:19
http://www.jbsports.com/bran5mile2010.htm
Branford Road Race 2010 - 5 miler
Holy hot and humid.....not the best day for a race for me. I wish the start was at 8am like usual for races - as by 10am it was already very hot. First two miles were a little faster than I had hoped - but they felt good. I caught with Alecia in the second mile and ran pretty much the rest of the race with her (she did out-kick me at the end). During the third mile the heat/humidity started to take its toll and by the fourth mile I was just holding on for dear life and hoping not to completely fall apart. A little Jimi Hendrix at the start of mile 4 ("Purple Haze" how fitting) seemed to snap me out of the sluggishness that had overtaken me. Alecia and I came out the corner to run down Montowese St and the sun was blasting on us. As we took the final corner on to Main St I coasted in. Today was one of those days I was so happy to finish upright. Not a terrible run considering the conditions - but not my finest race.
Total distance: 5 miles
Total time: 36:17
Average pace: 7:15
Splits
6:52
6:54
7:22
7:42
7:26
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/37600306
Warm up/Cool down
Total Distance: 2 miles / 1.25 miles
Total Time: 17:50 /12:49
Avg Pace: 8:55 / 10:15
Total distance: 5 miles
Total time: 36:17
Average pace: 7:15
Splits
6:52
6:54
7:22
7:42
7:26
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/37600306
Warm up/Cool down
Total Distance: 2 miles / 1.25 miles
Total Time: 17:50 /12:49
Avg Pace: 8:55 / 10:15
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Sprint for Dare 5k Monroe, CT
Humid - hilly 5k today....went out strong (maybe a little on the fast side). The hills in the 2nd half took their toll as did the humidity. I was able to finish strong and average a 6:52 pace - goal was 6:50 so Im very happy with today. The illusive age group finish was ~30 seconds away....maybe next time.
Place: 39/599
Mark J - New Haven CT
Bib: 201
Age: 34
Age Place:5/43 M 30-39
Time: 21:18
Pace: 6:52/M
Garmin Splits - 6:19/6:56/7:12/:50 (for .13 miles @6:19 pace)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/35917352
http://www.hitekracing.com/results10/mon0606.htm
Place: 39/599
Mark J - New Haven CT
Bib: 201
Age: 34
Age Place:5/43 M 30-39
Time: 21:18
Pace: 6:52/M
Garmin Splits - 6:19/6:56/7:12/:50 (for .13 miles @6:19 pace)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/35917352
http://www.hitekracing.com/results10/mon0606.htm
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Ragnar Relay New Haven-> Boston Race Report
(Caveat: Its long - and im sleepy so I apologize now if this makes NO sense)
This weekend was the Ragnar Relay from New Haven to Boston (or in this case Branford to Foxboro). I ran the 100on100 relay last year (100 miles/6 runners), this is 200 (192 or so) miles and 12 runners. My main concern going into the relay was running at night (and sleep deprived).
We dedicated the race to Betsy's (who was initially on our team) father who died earlier in the week. She showed up at the start to wish us off and cheer us on. Three of our team members went to the start at 4am to volunteer (although no one else showed from Ragnar until 5am) - while the rest of us got to sleep in a bit longer before meeting at Jerry's house - from there we piled into one van to head to the start. We (re)packed up the two vans at the start and then went through registration, safety orientation, packed pickup, tshirt pickup and such. All of that ended around 9:15 or so which left about 10 minutes for pictures and stuff before I had to get to the start. After the team introductions the 9:30am teams were off.....
Thinking back on leg 1 it was kind of a blur - not sure if it was the excitment of starting the race for the team, the sleep deprivation that has set in now, or if it just wasnt that memorable of leg. I do remember starting off and running with the pack for a bit. About a half mile in we started to seperate and I was running alone with about four 9:30 start runners in front of me. All the pains and strains from the previous week seemed to be gone which was great. The van went by to check on me and see if I wanted water. I waved em on said I was good - but then realized how warm it actually was and wondered if I had made a mistake in passing up water. Came into the transition (wiped the sweat off the slap bracelet) handed off to Dawn and she was off. Very happy with first run of the relay - ran strong and felt good. Food, hydrate, relax, support time.....
First Leg Stats (per Garmin) http://connect.garmin.com/activity/34238030
TOtal distance: 3.73 miles (3.8 based on Ragnar site)
Total time: 26:57
Average pace: 7:13
Splits
7:00/7:03/7:27/5:25 (for .73 miles @7:23 pace)
During my down time, I tried stay hydrated and tried to eat food. Kept the food light as I didnt want to be overly full for future runs. We stopped along the course many times to support the runners from our (and other) team/van. It was very warm so we wanted to make sure everyone had enough water whenever they needed it - although some of us waved off water most of the time. After our van was done with its first set of runs we handed off to van 2 and ate some Subway, then off to the next major transition for some rest/down time. This transition area was awesome - big, along the water, nice cool breeze, plenty of space to spread out and relax.
Around 4:30pm I started to get myself ready for my next run. We weren't really sure where Matt (last runner in Van 2) was as van 2 got stuck in traffic and had no idea where Matt was either. We knew approximately what time he started - so I got to the transition area around 4:45pm in anticipation. Matt came in a little after 5pm, wished me luck on "The Hill" and I was off. First part of run was beautiful - I got to run over the bridge and over the river we were resting near. A little narrow on the bridge but car traffic was relatively light. About 2/3 of a mile in "the hill" that Matt warned me about started. This hill was long and steep. I was able to pass about 5 teams or so just on the hill alone - which seemed to help boost my spirits. After I reached the summit, the course came down fairly steep to and even though I just wanted to let loose and fly - I had to stay in control. A few rolling hills then another steep (but much shorter) incline. Some stomach cramps started to set in around mile 2.5 - not sure if I was under hydrated, under nourished, wrongly nourished, or what - but it was very uncomfortable. This leg ended on a nice downhill where I was able to pick up some speed (stomach pains didnt get any worse or better going faster or slower) and finish strong and relatively smiling. I felt like garbage after cooling down a bit and getting some gatorade. Stomach was cramping big time - pain would come, hold for a minute, then relax (what I imagine contractions feel like for a woman in labor). Changed into some dry running clothes at this point and got ready to eat, hydrate, relax and support the rest of the team some more. I didnt eat though as the cramps continued and the last thing I wanted to do at this point was add to it (this would be a big mistake on my part). Overall still happy with my running as with the hill I knew the time would suffer a bit - but the effort was still there and legs were behaving and listening to me.
Second leg stats (per garmin) http://connect.garmin.com/activity/34238023
Total distance: 4.74 miles (4.8 based on Ragnar site)
Total time: 38:31
Average pace: 8:08
Splits
8:49/8:14/7:57/8:03/5:27 (for .74 miles @ 7:25 pace)
During the down time now, I tried to relax a bit more, lie in the van, to see if that would help with the cramping. Sipped on gatorade and water in hopes that hydrating would help. Since it didn't, I decided to start getting out of the van when we stopped and cheer on our team again. No point being miserable in the van when I could hopefully distract myself with support and taking pictures. I kept sipping gatorade over the next few hours (but probably not enough) and yes - I still have not eaten anything since Subway lunch at about 2pm. After we handed off to van 2 at the next major transition, we headed to the next major transition at Putnam High School for some showers and rest/sleep.
When we got to the high school, I decided not to shower in fear that it would keep me awake afterwards and went right to the gym to hopefully get some sleep. We all decided to move outside to sleep in the grass as the gym was bright and very busy. I mostly just lied their waiting for the phone to ring, I did drift off for about 20 minutes until the phone buzzed at about midnight. I lied there after that until 12:45 just staring at the phone - I decided to get up and hit the bathroom and then try to fall back asleep. No sleep. Van 2 called at 1am saying that Matt was about 30 minutes out. So - I got myself ready with all my night gear while the rest of my team started to re-pack the van. Still - no food and now only 20 minutes of "sleep". I was not super thrilled about running at 1:30am, alone and with no food (I did eat three cola flavored shot bloks - but Im not sure if that counts for much), and my longest leg coming up - 7.5 miles.
I chatted a bit with some of the runners waiting at the transition area in hopes that I might be running with one of them for part of it. Matt came in strong (as usual - he is an amazing runner) - I took the slap bracelet from him and was off. There was no one to run with at this point - very quiet in towns at 1:30am. I got passed by someone from one of the faster teams - he wished me luck on the run and took off. I liked having him out in front as I could see where the course was going - but soon he was out of sight. This leg was pretty hilly too - and my hamstring started to make some noise. Since I didnt have much training at night like this, I though I'd be more nervous about wildlife - but I really wasn't. The few cars on the road (that didnt seem to care that we were out there as they did not slow down at all) made me more nervous. A couple time in the narrower spots - I stopped and stepped into the grass to let cars fly by me. I saw what I thought was another runner ahead so I took off after them. I was making up great ground on this other "runner" to find out it was a Ragnar direction sign with a blinky light on it. This, embarassingly, happened 3-4 times on this leg. After I "caught" the 3rd sign - my mood started to sour a little and I started to same somce choice words to myself. It was very dark so even when the road went downhill I couldn't just pick up the pace as I had no idea what the road was going to do more than three feet in front of me. I did some "van headlight sprints" using the headlights of support vans to help me see where I was going. Since I had hydrated myself during downtime - and there were plenty of vans out there - I told my van (who didn't have an extra hamstring for me) they could head up to the transition to make sure Dawn had time go get ready. Finally I caught up to another runner who was making room for me to pass. I let him know I had no intention of passing him and told him I've been trying to catch up to him for a while so I could run with someone. We ran (and chatted) the last two miles or so. The transition area was rediculously dark - I had to call out to Dawn to find out where she was (hard to pick out one person in the dark when there are 30 or so people all wearing head lamps and reflective vests). After this leg I put in my post running/normal clothes and decided that I needed a bit of sleep. Either the cramping had stopped - or I was so out of it that I didn't notice anymore. Pace was really off from what I expected - so I wasn't thrilled with myself.
Third leg stats (per garmin) http://connect.garmin.com/activity/34238017
Total distance: 7.75 miles (7.5 based on Ragnar site)
Average pace: 9:09
Splits
8:39/8:26/8:55/9:09/9:13/8:45/9:07/833 (for .73 miles @11:40 pace)
I finally crashed out in the back of the van during Dawn's (2nd in our van) run and totally missed all of Chuck's (3rd in our van) run. I woke up to him getting himself cleaned up after his leg and Alecia (4th in our van) already gone. That hour of sleep though is all I needed - I felt refreshed and could run again (even though I didn't need to). I ate some snacks at this point and was feeling more human - although probably not smelling or looking very human. Sun started to come up during Keith's run and was up completely for Wayne's final run. We handed of to Van 2 for the last time, wished them luck and headed out for breakfast. My first real food since Subway. Bacon, eggs, toast, pancakes, coffee and soda - all good when hungry. After we ate - we headed up to Gillete stadium to the finish to wait for Matt to finish and bring the team in. We wandered around a bit - got myself a donut and soda - then we all relaxed until Van 2 arrived. Matt shortly appeared (although he missed a turn and added some mileage on) and we all ran through the finish line together as a team and received our finisher medals. We were the 3rd team to finish (not sure our overall place cause of the staggered start).
We headed up to one of the restaurants for some food and beers as a team. It was great being able to hang out with the other van a bit as we really didn't get much time at all to hang out as an entire team. We finished a bit under 26 hours which we were super thrilled with.
Overall - great experience, great times with some great people, learned alot about running - what to do and what not to do on long relay races. Look forward to running in another relay in the future.
Highs of weekend: Running with some awesome people, running fast/strong on first leg, tackling "the hill" during my second leg, "sleeping/resting" under the stars. finishing the third leg in one piece, finishing as a team at Gilette Stadium, and Guinness post race
Lows of weekend: not eating enough after my second leg, 20 minutes of sleep, my dapened mood during third leg - and really thats about it
This weekend was the Ragnar Relay from New Haven to Boston (or in this case Branford to Foxboro). I ran the 100on100 relay last year (100 miles/6 runners), this is 200 (192 or so) miles and 12 runners. My main concern going into the relay was running at night (and sleep deprived).
We dedicated the race to Betsy's (who was initially on our team) father who died earlier in the week. She showed up at the start to wish us off and cheer us on. Three of our team members went to the start at 4am to volunteer (although no one else showed from Ragnar until 5am) - while the rest of us got to sleep in a bit longer before meeting at Jerry's house - from there we piled into one van to head to the start. We (re)packed up the two vans at the start and then went through registration, safety orientation, packed pickup, tshirt pickup and such. All of that ended around 9:15 or so which left about 10 minutes for pictures and stuff before I had to get to the start. After the team introductions the 9:30am teams were off.....
Thinking back on leg 1 it was kind of a blur - not sure if it was the excitment of starting the race for the team, the sleep deprivation that has set in now, or if it just wasnt that memorable of leg. I do remember starting off and running with the pack for a bit. About a half mile in we started to seperate and I was running alone with about four 9:30 start runners in front of me. All the pains and strains from the previous week seemed to be gone which was great. The van went by to check on me and see if I wanted water. I waved em on said I was good - but then realized how warm it actually was and wondered if I had made a mistake in passing up water. Came into the transition (wiped the sweat off the slap bracelet) handed off to Dawn and she was off. Very happy with first run of the relay - ran strong and felt good. Food, hydrate, relax, support time.....
First Leg Stats (per Garmin) http://connect.garmin.com/activity/34238030
TOtal distance: 3.73 miles (3.8 based on Ragnar site)
Total time: 26:57
Average pace: 7:13
Splits
7:00/7:03/7:27/5:25 (for .73 miles @7:23 pace)
During my down time, I tried stay hydrated and tried to eat food. Kept the food light as I didnt want to be overly full for future runs. We stopped along the course many times to support the runners from our (and other) team/van. It was very warm so we wanted to make sure everyone had enough water whenever they needed it - although some of us waved off water most of the time. After our van was done with its first set of runs we handed off to van 2 and ate some Subway, then off to the next major transition for some rest/down time. This transition area was awesome - big, along the water, nice cool breeze, plenty of space to spread out and relax.
Around 4:30pm I started to get myself ready for my next run. We weren't really sure where Matt (last runner in Van 2) was as van 2 got stuck in traffic and had no idea where Matt was either. We knew approximately what time he started - so I got to the transition area around 4:45pm in anticipation. Matt came in a little after 5pm, wished me luck on "The Hill" and I was off. First part of run was beautiful - I got to run over the bridge and over the river we were resting near. A little narrow on the bridge but car traffic was relatively light. About 2/3 of a mile in "the hill" that Matt warned me about started. This hill was long and steep. I was able to pass about 5 teams or so just on the hill alone - which seemed to help boost my spirits. After I reached the summit, the course came down fairly steep to and even though I just wanted to let loose and fly - I had to stay in control. A few rolling hills then another steep (but much shorter) incline. Some stomach cramps started to set in around mile 2.5 - not sure if I was under hydrated, under nourished, wrongly nourished, or what - but it was very uncomfortable. This leg ended on a nice downhill where I was able to pick up some speed (stomach pains didnt get any worse or better going faster or slower) and finish strong and relatively smiling. I felt like garbage after cooling down a bit and getting some gatorade. Stomach was cramping big time - pain would come, hold for a minute, then relax (what I imagine contractions feel like for a woman in labor). Changed into some dry running clothes at this point and got ready to eat, hydrate, relax and support the rest of the team some more. I didnt eat though as the cramps continued and the last thing I wanted to do at this point was add to it (this would be a big mistake on my part). Overall still happy with my running as with the hill I knew the time would suffer a bit - but the effort was still there and legs were behaving and listening to me.
Second leg stats (per garmin) http://connect.garmin.com/activity/34238023
Total distance: 4.74 miles (4.8 based on Ragnar site)
Total time: 38:31
Average pace: 8:08
Splits
8:49/8:14/7:57/8:03/5:27 (for .74 miles @ 7:25 pace)
During the down time now, I tried to relax a bit more, lie in the van, to see if that would help with the cramping. Sipped on gatorade and water in hopes that hydrating would help. Since it didn't, I decided to start getting out of the van when we stopped and cheer on our team again. No point being miserable in the van when I could hopefully distract myself with support and taking pictures. I kept sipping gatorade over the next few hours (but probably not enough) and yes - I still have not eaten anything since Subway lunch at about 2pm. After we handed off to van 2 at the next major transition, we headed to the next major transition at Putnam High School for some showers and rest/sleep.
When we got to the high school, I decided not to shower in fear that it would keep me awake afterwards and went right to the gym to hopefully get some sleep. We all decided to move outside to sleep in the grass as the gym was bright and very busy. I mostly just lied their waiting for the phone to ring, I did drift off for about 20 minutes until the phone buzzed at about midnight. I lied there after that until 12:45 just staring at the phone - I decided to get up and hit the bathroom and then try to fall back asleep. No sleep. Van 2 called at 1am saying that Matt was about 30 minutes out. So - I got myself ready with all my night gear while the rest of my team started to re-pack the van. Still - no food and now only 20 minutes of "sleep". I was not super thrilled about running at 1:30am, alone and with no food (I did eat three cola flavored shot bloks - but Im not sure if that counts for much), and my longest leg coming up - 7.5 miles.
I chatted a bit with some of the runners waiting at the transition area in hopes that I might be running with one of them for part of it. Matt came in strong (as usual - he is an amazing runner) - I took the slap bracelet from him and was off. There was no one to run with at this point - very quiet in towns at 1:30am. I got passed by someone from one of the faster teams - he wished me luck on the run and took off. I liked having him out in front as I could see where the course was going - but soon he was out of sight. This leg was pretty hilly too - and my hamstring started to make some noise. Since I didnt have much training at night like this, I though I'd be more nervous about wildlife - but I really wasn't. The few cars on the road (that didnt seem to care that we were out there as they did not slow down at all) made me more nervous. A couple time in the narrower spots - I stopped and stepped into the grass to let cars fly by me. I saw what I thought was another runner ahead so I took off after them. I was making up great ground on this other "runner" to find out it was a Ragnar direction sign with a blinky light on it. This, embarassingly, happened 3-4 times on this leg. After I "caught" the 3rd sign - my mood started to sour a little and I started to same somce choice words to myself. It was very dark so even when the road went downhill I couldn't just pick up the pace as I had no idea what the road was going to do more than three feet in front of me. I did some "van headlight sprints" using the headlights of support vans to help me see where I was going. Since I had hydrated myself during downtime - and there were plenty of vans out there - I told my van (who didn't have an extra hamstring for me) they could head up to the transition to make sure Dawn had time go get ready. Finally I caught up to another runner who was making room for me to pass. I let him know I had no intention of passing him and told him I've been trying to catch up to him for a while so I could run with someone. We ran (and chatted) the last two miles or so. The transition area was rediculously dark - I had to call out to Dawn to find out where she was (hard to pick out one person in the dark when there are 30 or so people all wearing head lamps and reflective vests). After this leg I put in my post running/normal clothes and decided that I needed a bit of sleep. Either the cramping had stopped - or I was so out of it that I didn't notice anymore. Pace was really off from what I expected - so I wasn't thrilled with myself.
Third leg stats (per garmin) http://connect.garmin.com/activity/34238017
Total distance: 7.75 miles (7.5 based on Ragnar site)
Average pace: 9:09
Splits
8:39/8:26/8:55/9:09/9:13/8:45/9:07/833 (for .73 miles @11:40 pace)
I finally crashed out in the back of the van during Dawn's (2nd in our van) run and totally missed all of Chuck's (3rd in our van) run. I woke up to him getting himself cleaned up after his leg and Alecia (4th in our van) already gone. That hour of sleep though is all I needed - I felt refreshed and could run again (even though I didn't need to). I ate some snacks at this point and was feeling more human - although probably not smelling or looking very human. Sun started to come up during Keith's run and was up completely for Wayne's final run. We handed of to Van 2 for the last time, wished them luck and headed out for breakfast. My first real food since Subway. Bacon, eggs, toast, pancakes, coffee and soda - all good when hungry. After we ate - we headed up to Gillete stadium to the finish to wait for Matt to finish and bring the team in. We wandered around a bit - got myself a donut and soda - then we all relaxed until Van 2 arrived. Matt shortly appeared (although he missed a turn and added some mileage on) and we all ran through the finish line together as a team and received our finisher medals. We were the 3rd team to finish (not sure our overall place cause of the staggered start).
We headed up to one of the restaurants for some food and beers as a team. It was great being able to hang out with the other van a bit as we really didn't get much time at all to hang out as an entire team. We finished a bit under 26 hours which we were super thrilled with.
Overall - great experience, great times with some great people, learned alot about running - what to do and what not to do on long relay races. Look forward to running in another relay in the future.
Highs of weekend: Running with some awesome people, running fast/strong on first leg, tackling "the hill" during my second leg, "sleeping/resting" under the stars. finishing the third leg in one piece, finishing as a team at Gilette Stadium, and Guinness post race
Lows of weekend: not eating enough after my second leg, 20 minutes of sleep, my dapened mood during third leg - and really thats about it
Monday, May 10, 2010
Independence Day '5000' 5k Race & Walk
For those planning on being in Connecticut for the 4th of July, you should come out to the 18th Annual Independence Day '5000' 5k. I've never run this race - but I have heard its a great race and great fun. Very spectator friendly for family and friends to come watch you run.
Schedule of events
7:30am Race registration starts (till 8:45 sharp)
8:50am Announcments & lineup
9:00am Race starts
9:30am Food Fest!
10:00am Half mile Kids Fun Run or children 12 and under
10:30am Awards ceremony begins
Go to http://www.hitekracing.com/indy5000/ for registration info.
Hope to see you there!
Schedule of events
7:30am Race registration starts (till 8:45 sharp)
8:50am Announcments & lineup
9:00am Race starts
9:30am Food Fest!
10:00am Half mile Kids Fun Run or children 12 and under
10:30am Awards ceremony begins
Go to http://www.hitekracing.com/indy5000/ for registration info.
Hope to see you there!
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Live Well 5K Run/Walk Race Report
Today was the Live Well 5k in Milford. My goals going into the race were a) finish under 21 minutes and b) even pacing. Cooler day today than it has been, which was great - but the wind was pretty brutal. Did a two mile warmup with Matt S. Felt good - legs still felt asleep.
First mile - As we went off, I tried to find the 6:45 pace that I was aiming for. The pack cleared about a 1/4 mile in and I was running in a small pack. At about a half mile in I looked down at my Garmin and saw I was (at that exact moment) at a 6:10 pace and was on track to finish around 6:30. I was slowly starting to seperate from the small pack, and began passing a few people. Mile one in at 6:21 - so a bit too fast. I knew I couldn't keep up that pace so I pulled back just a little.
Second Mile - As the course turned back on itself, I could see the leaders and recognized Matt S. as the leader (who went on to the win the race). Slowly still passing people at this point and trying to hold my pace. During this mile I got into my zone - no thinking zone - just run. Second mile in at 6:31 - still on the fast side but I was holding together.
Third Mile - During this mile, the wind started to gust into our faces. I saw Dan L. about 10-15 feet in front of me - but no matter what I tried I could not catch him. Pace slipped - wind not totally to blame, but it didn't help. Right before the third mile marker I was passed by two people that seemed to be having their own race between them - I let them go race it out.
Last .1 - As I turned into the parking lot, I caught a glimpse of the clock and saw that I was on target for a new PR. That gave me a bit of a lift and was able to finish strong.
Finished under 21 minutes - which was the main goal. Pacing could use a little work....
Splits from Garmin
6:21
6:31
6:51
0:46 (for .1 mile @ 6:21 pace)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/32711691
First mile - As we went off, I tried to find the 6:45 pace that I was aiming for. The pack cleared about a 1/4 mile in and I was running in a small pack. At about a half mile in I looked down at my Garmin and saw I was (at that exact moment) at a 6:10 pace and was on track to finish around 6:30. I was slowly starting to seperate from the small pack, and began passing a few people. Mile one in at 6:21 - so a bit too fast. I knew I couldn't keep up that pace so I pulled back just a little.
Second Mile - As the course turned back on itself, I could see the leaders and recognized Matt S. as the leader (who went on to the win the race). Slowly still passing people at this point and trying to hold my pace. During this mile I got into my zone - no thinking zone - just run. Second mile in at 6:31 - still on the fast side but I was holding together.
Third Mile - During this mile, the wind started to gust into our faces. I saw Dan L. about 10-15 feet in front of me - but no matter what I tried I could not catch him. Pace slipped - wind not totally to blame, but it didn't help. Right before the third mile marker I was passed by two people that seemed to be having their own race between them - I let them go race it out.
Last .1 - As I turned into the parking lot, I caught a glimpse of the clock and saw that I was on target for a new PR. That gave me a bit of a lift and was able to finish strong.
Finished under 21 minutes - which was the main goal. Pacing could use a little work....
Splits from Garmin
6:21
6:31
6:51
0:46 (for .1 mile @ 6:21 pace)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/32711691
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
1st Annual Milford Road Runners Donut Dash
The race was to run a mile, eat 6 donuts, run a mile. Sounds simple enough. With 12 registered runners I felt I had a decent chance - unless I took too long to eat the donuts. First mile clocked in at a 6:24 - new mile PR right there! Then the donut eating began - first three weren't that bad. The last three began to hurt....I finally ate my last donut and was off for my second mile. The first part of it was a little uncomfortable - but I soon recovered and was able to clock in a 6:34 mile.
1st mile: 6:23
Donut time: 11:23
2nd mile: 6:34
I hope I can use this speed at my next 5k - especially when I dont have to eat 6 donuts at the midway point.
1200+ calories consumed
237 calories burned
hrmmmmm............
1st mile: 6:23
Donut time: 11:23
2nd mile: 6:34
I hope I can use this speed at my next 5k - especially when I dont have to eat 6 donuts at the midway point.
1200+ calories consumed
237 calories burned
hrmmmmm............
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Greater Hartford Quarter Marathon Race Report
My main goals heading into the Greater Hartford Quarter Marathon was a) run an evenly paced race and b) to try and finish in 48 minutes. Race day weather was awesome - sunny, calm and temps in the high 60s and race start. After picking up bib, I did a nice warm up of about a mile and half at an nice easy pace. Last quarter mile of warm up I picked it up to waken the muscles a bit. Finished my warm up about 10 minutes before the start of the race.
I lined my myself up near the front of the 7:00 pace group which ended up being the perfect spot to be. When the race started I only passed a couple people and got passed by no one. Successful placement! Around a 1/2 mile in Michael W. from DailyMile passed by me. I looked at my Garmin for the first time then and saw I was going a touch under 7:00. A little fast for the start - but nothing that would hurt me. The course then got hilly for the next mile which didnt seem too bad at the time - but then I remembered this was a two loop course. I tried to forget about having to do the hills another time and just focus. As we got back towards the start I looked at my watch and saw that for loop 1 I was at 24 minute (and change).
As the second loop started I realized I had been running in a pocket alone for a good while. I caught up to some other runners (including Doc Leah who was struggling with a knee issue) - and then the hills hit again. These were definetly harder this time around. The course leveled out again and I was able to recover nicely from the hills. With a mile left I started to push the pace slightly. Then I pushed it again when I had the last .55 miles to go. Having a nice long straight stretch to finish was great - I just focused on the finish line, form, breathing until I was done. Stopped the watch and it read 47:56 - official time was 48 minute exactly!
And for keeping an evenly paced run - (minus the last .55 where I picked up the pace 6:35 per mile) my splits were between 7:06 and 7:38. The fastest being the start (darn adrenaline) and the slowest being the second time up the hills. After I finished - I got my medal, a bottle of water and some yummy post-run treats which included rice krispie treat, peanut butter cookie and an oatmeal raisin cookie.
All in all a great race - I paced myself wisely and finished right on where I had hoped.
I lined my myself up near the front of the 7:00 pace group which ended up being the perfect spot to be. When the race started I only passed a couple people and got passed by no one. Successful placement! Around a 1/2 mile in Michael W. from DailyMile passed by me. I looked at my Garmin for the first time then and saw I was going a touch under 7:00. A little fast for the start - but nothing that would hurt me. The course then got hilly for the next mile which didnt seem too bad at the time - but then I remembered this was a two loop course. I tried to forget about having to do the hills another time and just focus. As we got back towards the start I looked at my watch and saw that for loop 1 I was at 24 minute (and change).
As the second loop started I realized I had been running in a pocket alone for a good while. I caught up to some other runners (including Doc Leah who was struggling with a knee issue) - and then the hills hit again. These were definetly harder this time around. The course leveled out again and I was able to recover nicely from the hills. With a mile left I started to push the pace slightly. Then I pushed it again when I had the last .55 miles to go. Having a nice long straight stretch to finish was great - I just focused on the finish line, form, breathing until I was done. Stopped the watch and it read 47:56 - official time was 48 minute exactly!
And for keeping an evenly paced run - (minus the last .55 where I picked up the pace 6:35 per mile) my splits were between 7:06 and 7:38. The fastest being the start (darn adrenaline) and the slowest being the second time up the hills. After I finished - I got my medal, a bottle of water and some yummy post-run treats which included rice krispie treat, peanut butter cookie and an oatmeal raisin cookie.
All in all a great race - I paced myself wisely and finished right on where I had hoped.
Official Greater Hartford Quarter Marathon Results
Here are the official results for the Greater Hartford Quarter Marathon.
Place: 76/469
Name: Mark Juliano
Age: 34
S: M
City, St: New Haven, CT
Club: Milford
Time: 48:00
Pace: 7:20
Other Milford/Woodbridge Club Finishers Times:
Craig - 38:58
Kate - 43:39
Gray - 43:57
Emad - 44:08
Leah V. - 45:08
Keith - 46:55
Jim - 47:22
John - 48:15
Wayne - 49:24
Bob - 49:27
Leah S. - 49:54
Barb - 49:59
Christine - 50:15
Janis - 50:27
Fred - 50:35
Jerry - 57:20
Michael - 59:44
Place: 76/469
Name: Mark Juliano
Age: 34
S: M
City, St: New Haven, CT
Club: Milford
Time: 48:00
Pace: 7:20
Other Milford/Woodbridge Club Finishers Times:
Craig - 38:58
Kate - 43:39
Gray - 43:57
Emad - 44:08
Leah V. - 45:08
Keith - 46:55
Jim - 47:22
John - 48:15
Wayne - 49:24
Bob - 49:27
Leah S. - 49:54
Barb - 49:59
Christine - 50:15
Janis - 50:27
Fred - 50:35
Jerry - 57:20
Michael - 59:44
Sunday, March 7, 2010
WPLR 99.1 Shamrock and Roll Race Report
Today was the WPLR 99.1 Shamrock and Roll 5k in New Haven. Justin and Drew came down from Rhode Island to race with me and Shawn came for support (since he isn't allowed to run anymore).
After a nice warm up we wished each other luck and headed to the start to lineup. I headed towards the front but that didn't seem to help as when the gun went off there were a ton of people to pass and avoid. Since I'm super familiar with this course, and since 5ks are run so hard there isn't much to write about. I just got in a zone and took off. As with the previous 5k, I had no real kick at the very end (something to work on for future races). Total time for today was 21:47 with splits of 7:12, 7:02, 6:38. No PR today - but I'll take it considering I ran 45+ miles since past Sunday. Race #1 of the CT USATF series complete...next one up in the series is Greater Hartford Quarter Marathon on April 3rd in West Hartford.
Race Times:
Me - 21:42
Justin - 23:58
Drew - 24:59
Leah - 20:43
Matt - 17:55
Dan - 21:05
Debby - 24:50
Dawn - 26:09
Betsey - 29:03
Fun times today - celebrated with some adult beverages and a burger.
Pictures --> http://picasaweb.google.com/majorcane/WPLR991ShamrockAndRoll
After a nice warm up we wished each other luck and headed to the start to lineup. I headed towards the front but that didn't seem to help as when the gun went off there were a ton of people to pass and avoid. Since I'm super familiar with this course, and since 5ks are run so hard there isn't much to write about. I just got in a zone and took off. As with the previous 5k, I had no real kick at the very end (something to work on for future races). Total time for today was 21:47 with splits of 7:12, 7:02, 6:38. No PR today - but I'll take it considering I ran 45+ miles since past Sunday. Race #1 of the CT USATF series complete...next one up in the series is Greater Hartford Quarter Marathon on April 3rd in West Hartford.
Race Times:
Me - 21:42
Justin - 23:58
Drew - 24:59
Leah - 20:43
Matt - 17:55
Dan - 21:05
Debby - 24:50
Dawn - 26:09
Betsey - 29:03
Fun times today - celebrated with some adult beverages and a burger.
Pictures --> http://picasaweb.google.com/majorcane/WPLR991ShamrockAndRoll
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Honest Tea Run for Refugees 5k Race Report
The plan for this race was to be a tune up fun race that I would push but nothing crazy - finish then go home and relax, have a drink and watch the Super Bowl. After going eight miles yesterday at a fairly quick pace, and the race being the 9th day in a row I have run - I felt taking it easy would be the best idea.
The race started at Wilbur Cross HS, which is literally a tenth of a mile at most from my place. I headed over at 8:30 picked up my bib, timing chip and t-shirt and went home to stay warm and use my own facilities. I went back shortly after and met up with some other Milford Road Runners. We all did a nice easy warm up together...I ended my warm up with three gentle pickups to wake up (and warm up) the muscles a bit.
Got to the start line with plenty of time to stay loose and warm and to try and stretch out my left calf which has been causing me some troubles. I lined up close to the front this time to not have a repeat of the Chilly Chili 5k start. Gun went off and so did we....
First half of the course goes up a decent hill. I was hoping to stay around 8-8:15s for the up portion. I passed quite a few people on the hill and was able to get a 7:10 first mile. Right before the turn around - the lead runners came FLYING down the hill. Hit the turn around and started to push the pace a bit - got passed by one runner here. When I hit the second mile at a 7:12 split I quick did some math and realized a PR was in play (if i didn't waste too much energy to go up the hill). At this point I figure if I could PR I should go for it. I picked up the pace again - at one point I looked down and my Garmin said I was doing a 5:55 pace). Julia (from Milford Road Runners - who I met after the race) was near by and pushing me along and for the last 1/2 mile or so. I really had no "kick" for the end as I was running at all out as I could at that point. I looked up at the clock as I crossed and realized I had PRd with a 21:10 (previous PR 21:59) - I was so happy I forgot to stop my watch for a good couple minutes after I finished. Oh well - (if my math is correct my splits are 7:12, 7:10 and 6:11 for the last 1.1 mile) I have to thank Julia a ton for pushing me along the last little bit (she did have a kick at the end and blew past me with no troubles).
Milford Road Runners had a great showing in the results and quite a few hardware was given out. Congrats to all runners today!
The race started at Wilbur Cross HS, which is literally a tenth of a mile at most from my place. I headed over at 8:30 picked up my bib, timing chip and t-shirt and went home to stay warm and use my own facilities. I went back shortly after and met up with some other Milford Road Runners. We all did a nice easy warm up together...I ended my warm up with three gentle pickups to wake up (and warm up) the muscles a bit.
Got to the start line with plenty of time to stay loose and warm and to try and stretch out my left calf which has been causing me some troubles. I lined up close to the front this time to not have a repeat of the Chilly Chili 5k start. Gun went off and so did we....
First half of the course goes up a decent hill. I was hoping to stay around 8-8:15s for the up portion. I passed quite a few people on the hill and was able to get a 7:10 first mile. Right before the turn around - the lead runners came FLYING down the hill. Hit the turn around and started to push the pace a bit - got passed by one runner here. When I hit the second mile at a 7:12 split I quick did some math and realized a PR was in play (if i didn't waste too much energy to go up the hill). At this point I figure if I could PR I should go for it. I picked up the pace again - at one point I looked down and my Garmin said I was doing a 5:55 pace). Julia (from Milford Road Runners - who I met after the race) was near by and pushing me along and for the last 1/2 mile or so. I really had no "kick" for the end as I was running at all out as I could at that point. I looked up at the clock as I crossed and realized I had PRd with a 21:10 (previous PR 21:59) - I was so happy I forgot to stop my watch for a good couple minutes after I finished. Oh well - (if my math is correct my splits are 7:12, 7:10 and 6:11 for the last 1.1 mile) I have to thank Julia a ton for pushing me along the last little bit (she did have a kick at the end and blew past me with no troubles).
Milford Road Runners had a great showing in the results and quite a few hardware was given out. Congrats to all runners today!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Winter Wonderland Race
Today was the Winter Wonderland Race in Milford. This is one of the races that the Milford Road Runners sponsors and I decided to help out and volunteer. Those who were volunteering and not racing met up around 7am to "race"/run the course before the 9:30am start time.
The pre-race run is supposed to be a fun group run - but since I wasn't able to run yesterday I did want to push the pace a bit. I found myself in the front most of the time - but not knowing the course I wasn't able to just go. First mile was run with Jeff and was a great pace to relax and run (8:47) . Around a mile and half in I noticed my shoe was untied and had to stop to re-tie. I caught back up to Jeff and we hung together for the next 2+ miles (8:47, 8:15). Jeff said he was going to drop back and I tagged along with a couple other runners. The last mile plus just flew by - my other shoe came untied with about a half mile left. We were moving along at such a great pace I decided to leave it as the shoe itself was still pretty snug. Last to miles were - 7:48 and 7:13. I felt great when I finished, and looking back I may have been able to go about 20-30 seconds faster per mile if I had been racing. So all in all a great run.
Total Mileage: 5 miles
Total Time: 40:22
Average Pace: 8:04
Splits: 8:47 / 8:16 / 8:15 / 7:48 / 7:13
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/23107184
I was assigned to assist at the finish line which entailed making sure the runners stayed in order as they finished, pulling tags off of bibs and collecting the tags. It was great to see the finishers come across as I never have been at the finish line of a race to see the 5 minute per mile finishers come in. Working at the race was really fun (even though it was pretty cold) - seeing all different types of runners finish was great - especially the 84 year old gentleman who finished. Great inspiration. If you haven't volunteered at a race before I'd recommend it.
The pre-race run is supposed to be a fun group run - but since I wasn't able to run yesterday I did want to push the pace a bit. I found myself in the front most of the time - but not knowing the course I wasn't able to just go. First mile was run with Jeff and was a great pace to relax and run (8:47) . Around a mile and half in I noticed my shoe was untied and had to stop to re-tie. I caught back up to Jeff and we hung together for the next 2+ miles (8:47, 8:15). Jeff said he was going to drop back and I tagged along with a couple other runners. The last mile plus just flew by - my other shoe came untied with about a half mile left. We were moving along at such a great pace I decided to leave it as the shoe itself was still pretty snug. Last to miles were - 7:48 and 7:13. I felt great when I finished, and looking back I may have been able to go about 20-30 seconds faster per mile if I had been racing. So all in all a great run.
Total Mileage: 5 miles
Total Time: 40:22
Average Pace: 8:04
Splits: 8:47 / 8:16 / 8:15 / 7:48 / 7:13
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/23107184
I was assigned to assist at the finish line which entailed making sure the runners stayed in order as they finished, pulling tags off of bibs and collecting the tags. It was great to see the finishers come across as I never have been at the finish line of a race to see the 5 minute per mile finishers come in. Working at the race was really fun (even though it was pretty cold) - seeing all different types of runners finish was great - especially the 84 year old gentleman who finished. Great inspiration. If you haven't volunteered at a race before I'd recommend it.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Chilly Chili 5k - Orange, CT
What a way to start off the year. Today I ran in my first race of 2010 and my first race in CT. Minus going past the exit on 95 and forgetting to eat much before the race today was great. The roads were a little slippery, especially around corners, but nothing that got in the way of going too fast. I gave myself plenty of time since I don't know the area that well, and didn't pre-register. Plenty of time to have a snack before....oooops forgot my granola bar and water. Lined up sort of near the front after a nice warm up and we were off. Had to weave and fight my way through ALOT of people. Guess I'll line up further up next time...I'm still learning where to start races from. Really not much to write about for this - I ran a majority of the race alone which allowed me to just zone out and run. After I finished I got myself a nice bowl of chili to warm up with. Great race and again what a way to start off the new year.
Place: 60
Bib Number: 294
Age: 33
Place in Age Group: 12
Age Group: M 30-39
Time: 22:54
Pace: 7:23
Splits: 7:12/7:28/7:18/7:06-(for .1 mile)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/21430933
Official Results
Place: 60
Bib Number: 294
Age: 33
Place in Age Group: 12
Age Group: M 30-39
Time: 22:54
Pace: 7:23
Splits: 7:12/7:28/7:18/7:06-(for .1 mile)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/21430933
Official Results
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