Rockledge Rumble 30k 2019/11/09

_prep
I’d just show up and stay around 11:00 pace based on memory: the course wasn’t too difficult in 2017.  Race was canceled in 2018.

Forecast said 40F start.  50F by 10am.  I decided to dress for 40F walking pace.  It’d be too warm after an hour, but I was anticipating a 2:15 run.  Would be fun to have another dehydrated ab photo.

The course change was explained at the start: back half would be more technical .  “How hard could it be?” 

_crash #1
We started 15 minutes late.  I stayed with a cluster that formed after half mile of pavement.  I was in no rush.  The single track was simple as I remembered.  1 girl went down.  She was OK.  Another went down.  I wondered what tripped them.  Then I fell.  Left shoulder was sore from breaking the fall.  I couldn’t find the tripping agent.

Everyone skipped rest stop #1, Murrell Park at mile 4.8.

[wished I could lose the arm warmers; photo by Mark Olateju]

My pack broke into 2.  I didn’t see the front half for 40 minutes.  All the sudden they caught us from behind--wrong turn.  I decided to stay back.  I didn’t want to be stepped on if I fallen.  Soon my pack was down to 3, including Sam from Irving, the only runner I recognized.

_half way, Twin Coves at mile 9.8.
Racers lingered.  I left after filling 10oz water, not feeling thirsty.  I was horrified to be 40 minutes behind schedule despite running at pace.

_bad in math
30k < 20 miles.  My trail pace was approx 11 min/mile = 10 min/mile for guestimating purpose.  My neurons short-circuited that into 10 mph, so I thought the race would take me 2~2.5 hours.

_crash #2
Sun stayed up.  It felt warm.  Middle miles of the course included more roots and rocks.  My ankle wasn’t cooperating.  I finally crashed after kicking 1 too many rocks.  I slowed down, accepting my limitation from spine injury.  I was grateful I managed to compete beyond what surgeon predicted in 2004.

I was roasting after 14 miles.  Mark was still there to encourage runners.

[dehydrated ab photo from overdressing; photo by Mark Olateju]

_4th quarter humbling
I was running alone for the final miles except this faster guy who walked his business phone calls.  Not everyone was lucky enough to focus on the race.

_#’s
Official gun
time: 3:26:48
distance: 30k = 19 mi

GPS:
time: 3:25:53
distance:17.90 mi

The Colony Half 2019/10/26—first run race in 6 months

My plantar symptom started in October 2018.  I treated it the same way as 2011: reduce running volume; it’d go away in 6 months.  The symptom intensified after each hard effort.  I limped after February Cowtown 50k.  I raced almost every weekend after that—most were shorter than marathon.  Tired of weekly limp, I skipped paid-for races to rest plantar fascia.  I focused on wheel sports after Hachie 50 on 5/4.

After mostly 10~20-mile weeks, I drove toward The Colony’s start line not because I was ready but because the race was paid for.

_plan
Run by feel: low to mid 8 minute-mile pace.  Try to hold sub-8 for final 8k.  SAG if foot becomes an issue.  The goal was to stay healthy: no crash, no catching cold.  I was to play APA single’s qualifier at 1pm.

_equipment issue
I found a good parking spot 50 minutes before the race and discovered I failed to pack planned racing shoes.  I also mistakenly took backup shoes out of car.  I freaked out.  My parking neighbor Justin lent me his spare Brooks.  I was elated.  He said it’d take him 2 hours to finish.  I could leave shoes at his car.

I stopped by On booth.  The rep helpfully offered demo shoes of correct sizes.  I encountered helpful people everywhere.

I walked out of porta potty at 8am.  The race started just as I reached timing strip.

_pacer
I decided to follow the 1:45:00 pace group.  The 2 pacers were triathletes carried the group meandering through 4 miles of residential streets.  I felt they climbed too hard.  I got dropped at every climb.  A few in group struggled with wattage required to stay close.  It was tempting to offer advice but didn’t want to rock the boat.

The website stated:
"Over 50% of this 13.1 mile course runs along The Colony's shoreline trail on beautiful Lake Lewisville.  Participants will enjoy a gently undulating, crushed granite trail in a picturesque & natural setting"  I didn’t fully agree with “picturesque,” but a few lake views were pretty.

I was too arrogant/lazy to read course description and was surprised by gravel and mud.  I was very happy not running barefoot or with Crocs.  On’s sole design carried extra mud compare to conventional soles.  Never thought I’d work this hard at 8:00 pace.

By mile 10, I was the only one remained from the original group.  I didn’t want to disappoint the pacers, I started to dig.

Justin caught up from behind, not noticing I wasn’t wearing his shoes.  He had a good day and went faster than planned.  I focus on my running.  I was depressed by my fitness.

Mile 12 and 13 markers showed up late.  The pacers admitted defeat and informed us of the lateness.  Justin took off.  I wasn’t in a hurry and sped up by feel, finished 12 seconds behind Justin.  I missed out on age group podium by < 10 second.

_#’s
Time: 1:45:17
Pace: 8:02

_slow recovery
The body didn’t feel right for remaining of the day.  I struggled with my 8-ball shots.  I lost the final match to an inferior player.

_next day
My legs were stiff.
Pool game recovered more.

Mark ran 8:22 pace off the bike at Waco 70.3.  I was happy for him.

A2A—38-mile race +49-miles stroll 10/06/2019

My fitness declined starting 2017 as life priority changed.  I decided to regain running fitness in October 2018 after developing plantar fasciitis.  Unrecovered by May 2019, I gave up foot races and started biking.  Skate fitness improved as side effect.

Trishop closed its door; I lost sports social circles.  Windhaven sidewalk became less skate-friendly as new apartments completed.

I held weekly Sunday skate for the few who could make the time.  Coming back from ankle injury, Jorge decided to challenge A2A 87.  I wanted him to succeed.  Kurt and Nicolas had non-skate priorities.

I scaled down A2A ambition also because of the 3-week Europe trip.  I wanted the Italian culinary experience.  I chose give up on racing weight.

[despite looking underfed, I felt fat 8 days before A2A]

My final Windhaven session came to an abrupt and exciting stop due to sidewalk littered by a Red Bull Soapbox Race.  Not cool, Red Bull.

[had just enough urethane to stop]

A few days later, a fallen branch brush my face due to my poor chainsaw skill.  Would’ve been worse without helmet and eye protection.

[everyone assumed I crashed skating]

_A2A goal
Skate with Jessica.
Finish 38 quickly and safely.
Skate with Luke.
Hug Colleen at CP5 possibly for the final time.
Cross finish line with Jorge.

_start line in the dark
Candy was in skinsuit hesitantly.
Parker’s wrist was in bandage due to a recent crash.  His legs operated at more human level after overnight skate with Sam.
Bob wasn’t well enough to start.  Made me sad.
Georg brought his beautiful Yvonne and perfect toddler.
Sonic was all positive energy and made me feel fatter.

_gun at 7am
I let the fast boys and girl go.  I followed a Junk Wheeler who lost steam after couple miles.  I took over, dragging Sandra and Eddie.  Parker passed us.  I let him.  Lennie took off too late.  We sucked both back in.  My pack also included 2 Junk Wheelers, Lauren, Jesse, Jessica, Serkan, and Herb.  Herb skated conservatively instead of encouraging everyone to sprint downhills.  Serkan looked like Francisco.

The real Francisco & 2018 NSIM winner Ken Kuwada attacked at mile 1.

[Breakaway worked; photo by Marc St. Pierre‎]

I didn’t see Scott whom I invited to my pack the night before.  He swore 17 mph would be too fast.  I wondered if he had a bad start or a great day.

_check point 1
I was surprised to see Candy distributing water and banana.  She hitched a ride instead of crossed the start line.
We caught Oswald and Michael.  Their legs seemed fried but recovered quickly.

_check point 2
Gator back improved in patches.  It made Butt Pucker Hill at mile 23 slightly faster.

[the 30 mph left turn was easier than it looked; neither braking nor puckering was necessary]

I felt our wattage dropping.  I held back on my pulls knowing I had 38-mile competition.  Jesse and Lauren spent minimal time in front.

[Herb lost contact climbing out of mile-31 hill]

_38-mile race
Jesse moved to the front and took a turn.  He breathed hard.  I offered to tie, not knowing who else were racing 38.  Jesse ignored me.  I wanted to race but didn’t want stupid risks at the final intersection.

Jesse took off.  I chased.  A Junk Wheeler dragged Lauren and pass us.  Rest of the group was out of sight.  Jesse breathed harder.

I attacked on an incline to test 8 legs.  A gap opened.  I accelerated, wishing I was more fit and less fat.  I felt Lauren and her windshield closing in.  I maneuvered between 2 cars at the intersection without provoking middle fingers.  I went full throttle.  I didn’t look back.

Scott Knecht won averaging 18.5 mph with Peter’s group.  I was happy to see how happy he was.

Jack Study brought his young skaters and finished under 4:20.

_#’s
Time: 2:16:54
Speed: 16.8 mph
Placement: 2nd


_check point 3
I was sad the bicycle shop closed.  I grew attached to its bathroom.

Candy informed me of Luke’s progress.  I greeted everyone I knew, used porta john, grabbed supplies, shared electrolytes with Herb, then started in time to catch 49-milers who merged with Parker, Sam, Serkan, and Herb.

I went to the front and told Ted I’d pull before CP4.  He acknowledged and stayed 20 meters behind.  We agreed that’s not how drafting worked.  He reduced the distance to 4 meters for our second attempt.  Rest of the group seemed content staying behind Ted and Anna.  I went to the back where Serkan cramped.  I offered to take him to CP 4.

_check point 4
I waited and was delighted to see Luke and Jorge together.  Luke and I caught up while Jorge wore ear bugs—Jorge looked less sharp with each climb.  I knew how that felt.  “Shit’s gonna get real real soon.”

A crack grabbed Jorge’s wheel.  Blood oozed out of his hand.

[I didn’t insist Jorge check his skates before he continued; I still feel that’s my mistake]

After decades of A2A, Luke and I finally encountered our first train at the bottom of the hill.  Jorge didn’t get to enjoy rolling over the tracks at full speed.

Jorge headed toward store to buy water.  I gave him my bottle.  I marveled how the event changed its roles in my life.  I wish parameters were different so I could utilize what Sonic and Parker had to offer.  The more connected we became, the more aware we were of missed opportunities.

Serkan and Eddie joined us after stopping to fertilize.  A lighter Eddie refused to acknowledge he had bodily functions.

Luke and I tried to think heavy but couldn’t reach manly speed at Silver Hill.

[39.2 mph felt slow for this section]

_check point 5 
We stopped.  Pickle juice was delicious. 

[Colleen patched Jorge up]
The skin opened less than blood volume suggested.  I was sad Colleen was moving away.  I declined beer after brief struggle; I felt responsible for Jorge’s safety.

[It was great to see Jonathan, who’s multi-year career effort paid off.]

_check point 6
We grab the final water and banana without stopping.  Serkan and Eddie were recovered.  They left.  Jorge slowed with each mile.

Luke went down tripping on 1 of the thousand twigs.  He continued after couple seconds.  Jorge ran on fumes.  We rooted for him.  Watching Jorge’s struggle, I was envious of all the experiences he would acquire.  Mindfulness promises a path to separate pain from suffering.  I wonder which I’ll miss more.

[Jorge gets the A2A experience, photo by P Peterson]

_#’s
Time: 6:35:52
Speed: 13.3 mph
Intersections with police protection: more than previous year.  Thank you, Anna.

_finish 
For the 2nd time Francisco criticized my wheel choice, trying to be helpful.  I suppressed: "easy for you to say; you have a wheel sponsor" while feeling ungrateful.  Francisco offered to send me discount code for wheels more suitable for the course.

Jorge and I returned to finish line at advertised time but missed the award that started early.  I talked to Dan the legend who shared his wisdom on wheel and on life.  I was more disappointed in missing the chance to congratulate Scott than missing my podium photo.

David and Michelle gave us a ride to a burger joint Mr. Jones liked.  Dave bought everyone dinner.  I limited my answers on questions to endurance sports so the dinner would end before midnight.

_Monday 
I slept poorly.  I ran to Centennial Olympic Park and CNN in the dark.  I debated whether to breakfast downtown before joining the traditional Flying Biscuit.  The decision was made for me: I received a work call.  Sunday JBoss upgrade went badly.  Hilton coffee and packaged cookie weren't terrible.
 
I Facetimed mom and discussed father’s real estate decisions that led to where we were.  I joined Jorge for the trip home by changing to an earlier flight.  The AA staff was unimpressed by my A2A shirt and assumed the facial wound came from skating on the road.  She waived the $75 change fee, enough to pay for 2020 A2A registration.

Hachie 50k; Waxahachie--salvage

_goal
After Feburary Cowtown I was hopeful to average 9:00 pace for this race.  I raced too much since and lost fitness each week.  Now Hachie I thought 10:00 pace realistic and expected top-3 hardware as a master.

_familiar race
It’s tempting to cheap out and drive to the event in the morning, which required 3am wake time for the 6am start.

I picked up package Friday afternoon and stayed at Fairview with Marriott points.  Bought a pizza next to the video store with movies from last century.

[“Dumb and Dumber” reminded me of Stephen Hawkins]

I forgot to pack XPS 13 and was pleasantly surprised hotel Netflix worked.  I got out of bed at 4am.  Took my time with breakfast.  Arrived in time to see the 50-milers’ delayed start.  The lead solo guy seemed relaxed yet ran faster than all relay runners behind him.  He broke the course record by 45 minutes despite mud and water-crossing.

_start
50k started with 200 meters of mud in the dark.  Everyone was cautious.  I followed lead guys with headlamp to know where to step.

Gina Pape caught up to me.  A guy carrying too much water and food passed us.  I was 5th.  I wasn’t concerned—only 1 of the leaders seemed old enough to be a master.  I stayed behind Gina; she had good headlamp.

[the peaceful stretch; photo from FB]

_running mates
Gina and I had incompatible climbing pace.  She delayed at water station.  I held constant moving effort.  Tuan caught me using big calves.  He looked my age.  I considered my chance if it came down to a sprint finish.  I bet he couldn’t go sub-3-minute-mile.

Jason Holloway joined.  3 of us ran together; we talked about club politics and ultra runs.  My 2 running mates had the foresight to park their cars along the course for easy supply.  Tuan was unconcerned about the minutes he lost for these breaks; this made me feel better about my pee stops.

_failed electronics
For 3rd straight year, Garmin 630 lost satellite signal after first lap.  At one point it told me I was moving at 43:00 pace.  Tuan had no problem with his Fenix 3 and informed me it’s time to upgrade.

[630 thought I stopped for 20+ minutes]

_familiar faces
I was happy to see Meghan at the start but decided not to chat in order to focus on wardrobe and light decisions.  I ended up leaving multiple items on the ground and was re-united with them at lost-and-found after race.

I saw Stephanie running toward me.  I instinctively wanted to turnaround to chat before remembering we were racing.

Some volunteers and racers greeted me like I was Norm in “Cheers.”  I wonder if they really remembered me or mistook me for the skinny half-naked Asian who won 2018 marathon.  The positive energy helped my fading legs.

3 of the top 4 racers failed to hold the pace.  I started 3rd lap in 2nd.

[I wanted to stop and give him an apple; photo from FB]

_unfit
The wall came at mile 23.  My heart rate dropped.  I accepted my fitness and anticipated to lose my  spot.  Tuan caught me.  I followed him but was unable to keep up 9:45 pace before water crossing.

[4” puddle followed by 6” puddle]

The eventual winner had a 9-minute lead at U-turn #5 but disappeared at 6th and final U-turn.  I lost 1+ minute/mile to Tuan after he dropped me.  I finished 6 minutes ahead of female winner Stephanie from Baltimore.  Jason and Gina faded badly during the final 5 miles.

_#
Garmin 630 w/ lost GPS signals
Distance: 26.65 mi
Time: 5:05:17 (including perceived stops)
4:39:25 (moving time)
Pace: 10:35 min/Mi
HR: 144/162 bpm
Cadence: 176 spm

Official
Distance: 50k; 31.07 mi
Time: 5:05:06.4
Pace:  9:49 min/Mi
Place: 3rd over all.

[50-milers had to go 19 more miles after 50k]

_afterward

I visited Chautauqua Auditorium per Bob’s recommendation.

[Waxahachie Community Theater building stage for “Mama Mia!”]
Talked to a long time runner Art who made me feel I needed to reduce life stress by setting much lower goals.

The drive home was slowed by 2 accidents on I35.  Then the NTTA fuckers closed 2 lanes to turn the Dallas North Tollway into a paid parking lot.  The drive soured the weekend experience.

Japan House buffet with Cherns was nice.  The owner greeted us at beginning and end but didn’t bother us while eating.

Irving Marathon 2019/04/27—newbie pacer.

Irving Marathon would be part of my race-into-shape plan to regain fitness when I overestimated my recovery ability.  I unregistered the marathon race when event date changed.

Meghan organized half marathon pacer.  Seemed like a good alternative to solo training the week before Hachie.  I liked helping others to reach goal. 

_goal
Wrist watch time 1:49:10 ~ 1:49:30.
Chip time 1:49:59.
Run at 8:20 GPS pace.  Adjust as necessary.  Build 30~60-second cushion for mile-10 climb.  Then more cushion for Texas Flyer Hill at mile 11.8.

_photo op
The pacer T-shirt waited for me was a youth L.  Didn’t work.  I wore the regular event T-shirt thinking I probably should’ve taped nipples.

I knew the group photo would be 7am but incorrectly assumed the location would be obvious.  I walked with another pacer Matt and missed the pacer group photo.

_race
I stood a few rows in front of Ben’s pacer group, noticing 3:40 full-marathon in front of us—that’s exact same speed.  Olivia Coco took race director’s pacing duty.  I also had 2 Garmin Forerunners and a mile mark band.  I refused to be under-prepared.

_pacing
We were losing ground the first 400 meters then made up lost ground and reached the first mile marker at 8:23—a perfect start.  We gained couple seconds every mile for the final climbs.  A few in the group struggled to stay behind pacers.  I gave them space.  Only Sarosh looked good.  I was envious of his small calves and relaxed strides.

Head wind was mild.  I warned the group about climbs for the return trip.  Everyone was in good spirit.  Conversation reduced after mile 2.

The top guy behind the lead vehicle looked fantastic and had a huge gap on the next racer, who was female.  I wished I look that good.

_mile 6
The 2 hard breathers disappeared on the mild climb before U-turn.  We reeled in several racers; they couldn’t stay.  We had 30-second cushion against mile markers.  Sarosh no longer looked jumpy.  Olivia seemed to struggle to contain herself.  It’s a lot to ask a 6:30-pace racer to run at 8:23 in a race environment.

_tail wind
Mile 6.5~9.9 was flat.  Tail wind intensified.  1:50 pace group dwindled.  We bank time anticipating the final miles.

The group didn’t seem ready for the final 5k except Kevin.  Kevin stopped for pastry.  We made fun of him.

_the “hills”

Predictably, no one held the pace at mile 10.  Olivia persisted and ran alone.   Head wind came at the left turn.  All seemed lost.  I went sub-8 to catch Olivia on the descent.

[I slowed to 9:16 pace; still no one hung on]

_mile 11
This was the first mile marker farther than Garmin 630 expected.

I wished I taped nipples.

I was delighted when the bearded guy caught up to me before Texas Flyer hill.

I told him “we have 15-second cushion; we’re almost there.”  I didn’t tell him chip sensor didn’t know what time my timing devices started.  I just hoped he could climb with me; he couldn’t.  I hoped he had excellent closing speed; he did.

Olivia couldn’t help herself.  She built a gap then stayed with the group in front of us.  Maybe her GPS felt my GPS was too old.  Maybe she didn’t believe the mile splits.  I suppressed the urge to catch up, wishing there’s better technology.
"This is not about you, Johnny."

Head wind was rough.  Everyone was doing the best he could.

_#’s
GPS--Garmin Forerunner 630
Distance: 13.12 mi
Time: 1:49:13
Pace: 8:19
Heart rate: 162/177 bpm

GPS--Garmin Forerunner 910XT
Distance: 13.15 mi
Time: 1:49:18
Pace: 8:19

Chip
Distance: 13.1 mi
Time: 1:49:12
Pace: 8:20

_post race
I hoped Rob would do well at London Marathon the following day England time.

My Hachie 50k would be in 7 days.

Texas Big Star Half Marathon 2019/04/13—canceled after a negative week

_goal
Stay with 1:45:00 pacers.
Practice for Irving Half pacing: 2 GPS: Garmin 910 right; 630 on left wrist.

_Sunday before the race
I was mad at myself for getting sick to skip 15k race.  I also felt negative for getting mad—my 2019 resolution was to be forgiving to myself for mental lapses.

The weather turned bad at noon for Ironman Texas 70.3.  A few friends were pulled off the run course for safety.  The slowest finishing time was just over 5.5 hours.  Reminded me of all the DNF’s due to Boston Marathon Bombing.

_Trishop
My heart sank watching Raul’s FB monologue attempting to be positive about store closing.  His shop had been the centers of my social circles.  There were hints during my last few visits: Conner was often lonely; Lonnie was let go; high-end Cervelo’s weren’t moving quickly.

Memories at the shop: I held Michellie Jones’ Olympic medals, Dan Empfield apologized to me about Lucero’s floppiness.  Matt Fitzgerald ignored my tears answering my flexibility vs. speed question the day dad passed away.

_Alex
Few weeks after learning of metastasis, Demma decided to organize the group video.  My mood plummeted when I learned Alex hasn’t been well enough for gaming for a month.

_Kisha
Tendonitis instead of fracture.  Could be worse.

_Mark
After his 8-year-old passed away, his faith considered suicide a mortal sin; that seems to be the only reason Mark stayed.  Finally received his status email on Wednesday.  His world was still bleak.

_Wednesday
My waking heart rate resumed.  Training run was a struggle.  I cut it short.  I watch Gary Robbins video on 2017 Barkley Marathon where he missed the 60-hour by 6 seconds.  I was overwhelmed by the desire to help him.

_Italy
I continued to lag behind George, who’s doing all the logistic work for August trip, and I had the audacity to run out of mental space to read his research.

_Friday
Weather.com said 100% rain for Big Star.  I visualize each step required to minimize rain exposure.  I studied the parking map so I could get into shower quickly after the race.  Race director emailed reassuringly: rain or shine—more email to come that day.  I didn’t see the follow up email ‘til after race day breakfast.

_Saturday
I could use another hour of sleep but followed the race script.  Race email notification from 12 hours ago was blocked by Gmail’s own junk mail: “are you sure you don’t want to use gmail phone app?”  The race was canceled long ago—I could’ve slept in.

I ran 7.5 miles in the rain, remembering “Texas Tough” was canceled for a few drops of rain.  Hypocrites!  Hail started after shower.

_Sunday
8am.  I wasn’t motivated to run in 45F wind.  I postponed the run and skipped crawfish boil.  Tiger Woods won his 15th major.  The weather was perfect by the time I finally got out the door for the make-up half without 500 of my best friends.

I was excited to watch Boston Marathon the following day.

My life is so mundane.

Tal Morrison Classic 15k 2019/04/06--skipped

In 2014, I raced Tal Morrison mostly to have breakfast with friends.  I saw Kisha for the 2nd race.  It was hard not to notice the blonde with Paula Radcliffe movement.  Casey and I raced the same age group.  We were all about Montreal skate that year.  New faces appeared at social skates.  Rob was approaching my half-marathon speed.  Kurt was crazy fast on wheels.  Father was in and out of hospital but seemed destined to live forever.  The stock market did so well, I debated whether it was time to pull everything out.

5 years later, Kurt struggled for time to exercise among his obligations.  Skating was "something we used to do" for more people.  Rob surpassed his sub-3 marathon goal.  Casey married Voon and is a Leadville finisher.  Kisha didn't know what to do about her foot pain a week before Texas Big Star Half.

I signed up for the race to take advantage of my very first senior citizen discount joining DRC.  It's a free race for the members.  I would lead a group skate to White Rock after race.  I imagined beautiful sunshine.

I caught cold on Tuesday before the Saturday race.  I considered racing 5k.  Weather forecast predicted unsafe skate.  I chose to stay home and binge watch World Pool Masters 2019 matches.

I'm feeling like an idiot for catching cold by not wearing enough cloth doing house work.

9:03am race morning.  Plano, TX

Arbuckles 2 Ardmore 20.6-mile run 2019/03/31--fast course.

Years ago Casey mentioned the existence of “another A2A.”  I added the event to bucket list.  I stumbled upon the race website again in 2017 looking for events with Raluca.  It conflicted with TIR.  A year later she raced 20.6-; I raced 26.2-mile; it was a good experience.  I was sad to learned 2019 would be the final year—so many friends would enjoy the run, but modern life priority is more obligation- than happiness-based.

_pre-race
Admore was much closer than OKC.  Oklahomans seemed nicer to strangers than Texans.  I went to dinner at Ten-Star pizza, the kinda pre-race dinner where I’d encourage Raluca to order red wine.

Hilton Garden’s wifi was comically difficult to get on.  The receptionist had to give me the “good wifi password.”  Speedtest.net refused to give me a number other than stating latency was too much.  I emailed Tom about his knee and Italian travel mates about the trip.

Drive to Noble Stadium was smooth.  Event parking was easy.  Toilet flushed solidly.  Bus ride was happy.  Pre-race activities were great.  It sucked such event had to end.

Lots of selfie activities at the start with Oklahoma's tallest water fall and comically short zipline.

[images from Turner Falls Park & Turner Falls Zipline websites]

_goal
Given the hill distribution, negative split was unrealistic.  I aimed for even effort.  Fast final 100-meter on stadium track.  Tailwind was forecasted but later than race start.

_race
I started fast to raise core temperature.  The above freezing tailwind accelerated.  By the time I finished the 5-mile out-and-back detour, I could feel the wind pushing me.  10 miles to go.

_tail wind
I started to pick runners off.  The legs told me to stay at 8:30 pace.
“forget the legs you once had; be grateful to what you have.”
This is race condition non-Barkley racers dreamed of: downhill, point-to-point, tail wind.  8:30 was a little hard to swallow.  I encouraged every runner I passed—feeling like a hypocrite.

I sweated wearing cycling base layer plus a T shirt.  I was tempted to give away arm warmers and gloves with air temperature in the 40’s.  Sunshine was beautiful.

The pace was hard to hold by mile 18.  I stopped the struggle.  I reminded myself DRC’s race was 6 days away.
“just hold your place.”
I felt unfit but was enjoying the moment.  The sky was gorgeous; I was passed by the sole port-a-potty-delayed racer; everyone was happy to see me.  Everyone appreciated my toilet humor when a guy headed toward port-a-potty.

_fast finish
With stadium in sight, a competitor came within breathing distance—I sat on him.  He accelerated with 400m-to-go.  I kicked at the final turn and easily took him before the line.

[11.12 sec 100-meter if I could hold 2:59 pace]


_#
Garmin 630
Distance: 20.61 miles
Time: 2:57:15
Pace: 8:36
Top Pace: 2:59

Official
Distance: 20.6 miles
Time: 2:57:15
Pace: 8:36
Placement: 12/46

[won socks as the fastest 50-year-old]

_downside of low body fat
I forgot I was still skinny despite being heavier than race weight; I didn’t get my coat before socializing, thanking volunteers, and accepting age-group award.  I was cold.  I rushed to my car as the 3:20 marathoner entered the track.
“That used to be my speed….”

My hands were shaking by the time I gave up on Starbucks line—didn’t expect it to be such happening place 11am in Ardmore.

Went to Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers next door.  Burger and fries stopped my shaking.  I skipped frozen custard—1 of my favorite foods.

2 days later, I failed to put on long-sleeves over wood dust covered arms from installing ceiling shelves.  I got cold and got sick.

The next day I learned Kisha injured her ankle; her spring race season was now in jeopardy.

Human bodies are fragile.

Blue Red Run Half 2019/03/23—unrecovered

The legs felt dead at the start of Trinity River Levee Half 3 weeks ago.  Today I anticipated a better 13.1-mile result given I had 7 instead of 6 days rest after 4+ hour foot race.  I acquired a Hypervolt massager to promote recovery and alleviate upper body pain.  Wishful thinking didn’t translate to reality.

_plan
Start at mid to high 7’s pace.  Accelerate at mile 8.  21-minute final 3 miles.

[Irving cops and I left the event at the same time.  This caused me having to drive at their speed on George Bush Tollway]

_race
The legs turned into jello around mile 9.  I lost ground to the dozen in front of me.  No one behind me presented a threat.

I stopped holding the pace at mile 11 to save the legs for 20.6-mile A2A in 8 days.  I watched my split went from sub- to mid 8’s. 

_#’s
GPS: Garmin Forerunner 630
Distance: 13.0 mi
Time: 1:44:23 (forgot to stop the timer)
Avg pace: 8:02

Official chip time: 1:43:19
Avg Pace:7:53/M

Ranking 13/160

_Post-race

Got lucky with weather: rain didn’t start ‘til 10 minutes into award.  A few Airbus employee let me take cover in their large vehicle.

Grasslands Trail Marathon 2019/3/16—plantar fasciitis

_short version
Plantar fascia acted up.  Jacket too thin for outdoor BBQ lunch.  Everything else felt pretty perfect.

Race postponed 30 minutes so racers had sunlight.
Made 2 wrong turns but recovered quickly.  Socks were wet by mile 13; no blister.
Kicked a rock: lost very little toe nail.
Weather was gorgeous.

_TLDR version
[photos by Catherine Chen]

I signed up for marathon despite of my drop foot.  This wasn’t a technical trail course.  I could ask a volunteer to save me.

It was weird coming to this event without Raluca.  Enabling her to participate was something she appreciated.

_logistics
7am start time meant 4:15am wake time before 80 minute drive.  I was afraid to oversleep at 3:30a.  I needed to learn to relax.

Event was chip-timed.  I debated whether to start 20 min after the gun to avoid darkness.  The decision was made for me.  The organizer postponed start 30 minutes.

_goal
I had no time or placement goal.  5-hour felt doable.  4.5-hr was possible.  It all depended on surface condition and how much I got off course.

_loop 1: white trail: slow start
I started mid-pack, not wanting to impede anyone.  The race quickly came to standing still to queue up for 2 flooded sections.  A real trail runner would’ve just skip over the water.

_negative progress
I was directionally challenged and decided to follow others.  Confusion developed the first couple miles.  Runners U-turned.  Twice.  It was funny watching how people reacted differently.  I followed a well-equipped guy—in worst case, his GPS will find the parking lot.

[end of loop 1]

Air temperature went from 37 to 50 the first 2 hours.  I left T-shirt, arm warmers, and gloves at the tree by the start.  The sunshine was gorgeous.


_loop 2: blue trail
The blue trail marks were very visible under 9 o’clock sun.  I came to a water crossing.  My brain couldn’t decide what to do; legs just stepped into the muddy water.  Both socks got wet.  That was my only dipping and permit me to step into mud.

Left heel hurt.  I sensed the limp and chose to ignore it.  There were limited numbers of these events left in this body; I hoped the knee damage I incurred wouldn’t be permanent.

I thought about Kelly Catlin’s suicide.  I remember my setbacks when I was a 23-year-old California grad student.  That was 2 lifetimes ago.

I stopped following others and went at my own pace.  I caught the first half marathoners.  Everyone seemed happy.

A girl caught me from behind with a lot of liquid in her Camelbak.  I kept up for a few minutes then decided I didn’t need to increase foot pain to hasten returning to the world of New Zealand mosque shooting and other disappointments.

[heel strike to set up air]

_#’s
Garmin 630:
Distance = 24.7 mi
Time = 4:34:31
Pace = 11:07 min/mile

7 water breaks: 3 input + 2 output +2 in queue to cross
2 wardrobe changes

Chip time: 4:38:00
Distance = 26.2 mi
Place: 15th/73 finishers

John wasn’t happy with his performance.  Even more disappointed was Valerie; she quietly ate BBQ next to me.  I didn’t know she DNF’ed and wish I inquired about it.  I wished I wore the thick jacket.  I wished I had larger comfort zone.

Javier finished 2nd in 50-mile under 8 hours.

Casey achieved his 10-hour goal.  Made me want to try the yellow loop.  He was an accomplish trail runner now.  Casey mentioned Salton Sea 2020.  I want to be on his team.

Trinity River Levee Half 2019/03/02—acceptance.

2014 I biked to this event to breakfast with Casey and Voon where we committed to enter Montreal 24-hour relay.  We played murderball.  It was a beautiful sunny day.

[event website featured Casey and me playing obscure sport]

2016 I skated with Mackowski then paced Raluca for 5k.  She just adopted Aiki.  Aiki is 3 now.

[the 2.17-month-old]

_unsure of state of the legs
Legs were unrecovered from 50k 6 days ago.  Hamstring aching.  I decided to start at 8:00 pace—felt like a good starting point.  I changed my mind at the start—I followed the 1:40 pacers.

[7:30 felt easy the first mile] (photo added to Facebook by Mark Olateju)

Side stitch started soon. 

[By mile 5, 7:30 pace was unrealistic.] (photo added to Facebook by Mark Olateju)

Middle half of the half involved dirt road.  I lost footing couple times—good practice for Grasslands in 2 weeks.  I let others go on short and steep climbs.  8:00 pace felt difficult by mile 9.  I felt lucky that ankle and hamstring were holding up.

[cadence changed when pavement ended at mile 6]

Inspirational Rob caught up to me.  He started late to maximize passing.  He eventually caught 1:40 pacer.

I didn’t struggle; I let legs do their thing.

Mile 12 intersection was a zoo.  I went the wrong way.  Served me right for not studying the course.  A very attractive Paige ran with me on the pedestrian bridge.  The forecasted rain never came, all body parts working.

[On Margret Hunt Hill Bridge.  I was in no rush.]  (photo added to Facebook by Mark Olateju)
I did not think about canines and humans entered and left my life.  I thought about Nataly Kogan’s book.  I let the moment last as long as it needed to.

_#’s
GPS: Garmin Forerunner 630
Distance: 13.18 mi
Time: 1:42:48
Avg pace: 7:48

[double 42; universe hints]

Official chip time: 1:42:42
Avg Pace:7:50/M

Ranking at splits:
5K: 49
10M: 47
13.1M: 47

Time takes to reach splits:
5K:23:24
10M:1:17:30
13.1M:1:42:48

Pace at splits:
5K:7:31/M
10M:7:45/M
13.1M:7:50/M