Texas Whiner Marathon 12/14/2013 (4th failed attempt to BQ. This is getting old.)

2013 running season came to an unsatisfactory end.  I looked for any long run to reduce wasted preparation.  I found a tiny race 6 days after cancelled Dallas Marathon. 

_goal
3:30.

Logistical details weren't readily available; I had the race time and address but not much else.  "Whatever happens happens."

I didn't know how much fitness a runner was expected to lose 6 days after taper.  My dance card was filled that week.  "I can eat anything after December marathon," I'd been promising friends and family.  It was unfair to ask others to change plans for my ruined "A" race.

Icy roads made training impractical, and I had no easy access to treadmill.  I estimate 2 additional lb of dead weight.  "Just carb load and show up.  Dress warm. " 

_turn of events
The email from race director 4 days before race:
1.  The race registration was closed due to last minute sign ups.  Head count = 100.
2.  There ain't enough parking spaces, T shirts, and food.  But the organizer was working on it.
3.  This was a Boston qualifying course.

After 5 days of inactivity, the road cleared enough to run.  It would be the only training run before the race: warm up, 1 mile at 6:30 pace, cool down.  I felt sick during warm up and came close to puking.  Sodium phosphate loading was the prime suspect.  I had difficulty getting to 6:30 pace, in contrast to 6 days ago I had to reduce effort to bleed off speed. 

The sick feeling came 2 more times that week.  I ignored the issue but adjusted race expectation accordingly.  I was puzzled by my lack of speed—6:30 mile were never an issue, even during off season.

New goal: finish safely & pukelessly.  But make effort for 3:19:59.

_course
8.3 laps around Bachman Lake (next to Love Field Airport).  Concrete pedestrian trail.  No motor vehicle.  4 climbs per lap.  The final stretch was in reverse direction.

Forecast: 43F ~ 40F, 92% humidity, 14 mph wind, cloudy.

_race
I found myself in the lead pack with another runner.  He pointed out hazards and asked what I needed to qualify.  "I'll take you through the first lap."  Half lap later a tough looking dude wearing a hooded shirt passed us.  He ran with some sinus issue and started to build a lead after a downhill.  My guide stuck with me and left the course after the lap.

I sweated and threw away the T-shirt.

I saw no other participants before lapping the walkers.  We encouraged each other.  It was a 43F cloudy day; I dressed correctly for 7:33 pace.  I didn't feel light and fast as previous week but was hopeful about holding the pace.  I was aware half way of a marathon was at mile 20. 

The lead guy was out of sight.  I didn't care.  I focused on each downhill.  A girl caught up to me during lap 3.  I stayed with her.  She ran each mile slightly faster to win the half marathon.  I was on pace by mile 14, but hamstrings started to tighten.  It was Irving Marathon all over again except this time I didn’t have a 100k run to blame. 

_no excuse
My strides fell apart.  I wasn’t in form for 3:20 finish.  I didn’t experience runner’s high—the data slapped me in the face.

I had a slow quarter-mile splits as I caught up to the distinct hooded shirt and red calf sleeves at a climb.  We acknowledged each other but exchanged few words due to my limited Spanish vocabulary.  It's nice to have someone to share the suffering.

Runners talked behind our backs, unaware how far their voices carried.  We were referred to as “black and red socks,” “triathlete and the other,” or “Mexican and Asian.”  Apparently I looked better than I felt.

Wind speed increased.  Air temperature dropped.  My pace slowed.  I wish I had that T-shirt back.

Boston qualifying time was out of reach.  I focused on winning.  I surged at a climb and heard snot rocket struggling behind me.  Mile 22 of a marathon was easier when being pursued.  He caught back up during next 5k.  My legs were so stiff; I climb the hills rocking side to side.

2 of us completed lap 8 shoulder to shoulder—an amateur Iron War.  He paused at the final water stop.  “Really!?”  I surged up the hill.  I held the image of Macca running away from Raeler in 2010.  I made the U-turn.  I saw my chaser with no fight in his eyes.  I high-fived everyone and smiled to phone cameras at finish line.  I was 15 minutes behind a goal that felt realistic just an hour ago.

_post race
Volunteers and half marathoners congratulated me.  A few knew what I was after, "sorry you didn't qualify."  I felt lots of things; mostly I felt cold.  I hugged the course volunteers for warmth and emotional support.  I did not cry. 

The hooded shirt guy and I exchanged a smile and a few words.  I didn't understand his words.  He wasn’t even Latino.

I attempted to work the water station after putting on ski jacket.  A volunteer suggested that I eat a sandwich instead.  I walked the course to encourage runners.  I accidentally dropped the Subway plastic bag.  I stepped on it before the wind carried it away.  I spent the next 20 seconds attempting to pick it up.  A volunteer finally came to help.

My left calf cramped as I got in the car.  I was glad I didn’t buy that stick shift in 2006. My mood improved as the car warmed up.  Completing a marathon was always worthy of celebrations. 

I won a race!

Dallas Marathon 12/8/2013 (3rd failed attempt to BQ)

I decided on this Boston qualifying event at mile 25 of Irving Marathon.  The timing wasn't perfect: 2014 Boston Marathon spots were unlikely to be available by December, and the Danube trip would impede my normal 14-week preparation.  There were only so many such "A" events left in these legs--"seize the opportunity while you can."

_goal
3:19:59

_training
I went to the high school track after Danube trip for MAF test and was dismayed by amount of fitness lost in 15 days.  I thought my nearly daily skate/run was sufficient to stay in shape.  A2A restored some confidence in my fitness.

I acquired 9-week program from Runners' World and followed the weekly mileage but not the pace.  6.5 years after the first marathon, I learned 8:30 was not a good recovery pace for this body.  The peak weekly mileage approached 50.

_technique
I acquired a metronome and confirmed my running cadence was closer to 92 than 96.  Yeah, off-by-4 is natural given I counted strides in 15 seconds, not a full minutes.

Plantar fasciitis reared its head from time to time but no longer impeded my training.  The shoe collection continued to be dominated by light and flexible flats.

I watched "Gliders vs Gazelles" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJWPwVF30yo) and was mesmerized by Carfrae's running form.  The video convinced me the need to settle on the ugly glide, but I was unable to shake the image of gazelles' hind leg angles.  Carfrae's strides at 2013 Ironman championship was a beautiful sight.  The experience felt like double push.

After months of obsession, I participated in Newton's analysis at Trishop and was pleasantly surprised I ran more like Rinny than the gliders.

[snipped off video]

_diet
My body went into withdraw after September vacation where I ingested large quantity of dairy, alcohol, and processed food.  I gained 4 pounds in 15 days.  The first week home I was unable to run an hour without GI issues.

I resumed my normal diet and achieved race weight by A2A.  I was so in tune by November, I could feel my body weight with half-pound precision each morning.  Family meals threw a few curve balls, but race week weight control was near perfect.

_final week
I often struggled with the last long run 7 days before the race.  Not this time.  This was the first winter training block I didn't crash due to drop foot.

The left knee healed.

My preparation wasn't as aggressive as 2011, but I felt confident about my 3rd attempt at Boston qualifying time.  I just needed reasonable weather and clothing.  I became obsessed about my food source; it's one of the few remaining controllable things that could derailed the race.

I unwrapped my final pair of Green Silence for the 2x1600.  The new shoes felt unbelievable.  It was so difficult to observe the speed limit, I cut the session short by 300 meters--"Just do the minimum.  Save it for the race day."

I missed coffee.  I visualized the weight gain sessions after the race.

_race
Cancelled due to weather.

Battle at Bear Creek 11/9/2013

The races involved 2 things I sucked at: left turn and counting laps.

I signed up in April and was on the fence about inline racing 4 weeks before running Dallas marathon, my 2013 "A" race.  Simmons Racing’s attendance tipped the scale: I was desperate for my boots to become usable.

_logistics
Driving races are simple.  I threw bunch stuff into the car Thursday night, including all 3 pairs of Simmons customs.  I left work early Friday hoping to beat Houston rush hour traffic. 

I wanted to hang out with Danube friends after race but didn’t know when I’d be available after the race.  I’d call after race.  If I hurried, I could meet Keith Wegan before his departing Dallas for rest of his skate across Texas.

_preparation
I delayed the easy week on my running schedule.

I turned down Donnie and Doris’ margarita invite and stayed in the hotel room to read ultra-runner
關家良一’s book.  I barely skated after A2A; I set my Bear Creek expectation accordingly.

_300 meter
I had no clue how to race 300 meters.  No one I asked was able to articulate pacing in a useful way.  I considered asking Eric Gee buy didn't want to use a
牛刀 to kill the chicken.

My left knee didn't healed after A2A.  I played it safe: start easy, focus on form, go hard after half way.  I peaked at 24 mph, averaging 21.4 mph.  Top 4 guys averaged 27+ mph.

Result: 00:33.58 (21.4 mph)

_Simmons
David Simmons arrived!  We went to work right away.  2008 Mojo issue was obvious—reverse April change and shave the mounting blocks.  We wasted time looking for tapes and writing tools.  I wished Dave had the personality that would ask me to prepare such things.

2013 Mojo were hairier.  It was hard to focus on all 3 symptoms in midst of other Simmons customers.  I was determined to make progress before leaving Houston.

_10k
My 10k race included pro masters but no pros.  I looked for the widest steady racer to suck wheels.  Theoretically I only needed to go hard for 15 minutes then hold off competitors.

The start was a zoo as the indoor skaters crowded the front.  I overestimated my maneuverability and came close to skate off the road.  I blamed the new 110mm set up that was 16 mm higher than what I was accustomed to.  "This is gonna be a long day."  John later apologized for pushing me at the turn.  A few simple words restored my confidence.

Mike didn’t make the corner.  8 stitches.

[photo from FB]

Everyone was stopped before end of lap 1 due to timing issue.  My left knee was stiff.  I abandoned any race ambition.  "Just have fun.  Make sure David Simmons doesn't get away before fixing the boots."  I visited washroom. 

I missed the 2nd start and technically had a 100-yard advantage.  I came to a complete stop, let the fast guys go by, then started chasing.  I caught the group wondering how I’d be penalized.

I was able to identify other 19 mph turn-challenged skaters.  We quickly formed a pack and stayed together. 

Hernan won pro master.  Alex didn't optimize his race mistakenly thinking it was a point race. 

Renee told me not to worry about the false start.

Result: 19:16.00  (19.35 mph)


_Simmons part 2
Eager customers wanted David’s unique product.  Jennifer assured me they’d be there all day.  Spending another night in Houston wouldn’t be end of the world.  I considered calling Brock for free lodging and a tour of his media business. 

I warmed up for the 21k race while Jason sat in the casting chair.  Jason missed the final race.

_half marathon
The pace stayed slow for the first lap, then someone picked up the pace after the headwind section.  I let the big pack go and was dismayed no one else stayed with me.  I rolled at 10 mph before Bob and John picked me up.  I was favoring right leg but felt confident with the frames; I was getting away with using new equipment on the race day.

[orderly start, photo by Doris]

Bob attacked.  I assured my pack --"he's not getting away."  Secretly I wished for Bob to fly away.  He survived many minutes before we took him back in.

We picked up overly optimistic racers; most were too fatigued to stay in.  Pros lapped us, trailed by skaters unaccustomed to 22 mph average speed.  I jumped pack; John and Bob let me go.

I stopped worrying about knee injury and focused on my form.  I felt capable of hold 18 mph all day. 

Remaining laps were routine: the small pack skated cooperatively; I practiced crossovers; a young indoor skater kicked my shins; I had no clue what lap I was on. 

I saw Bryan’s 80mm wheels after pros completed half marathon.  I chased.  An extra lap never hurt anyone; in case everyone miscounted, I’d be the winner. 


Half marathon time: 42:55.38 (18.37 mph)
Splits:
20.4
19.8
16.2
18.5
18.3
17.8
17.3
17.9
17.4
20.1
18.4
18.9
18.1
17.6
18.2
18.2
18.0

_Simmons part 3
The booth was a zoo while everyone waited for delayed award ceremony. 
I put on running shoes for scheduled easy run.  Every few laps, I stopped at the shelter to check on award status.  Outdoor skaters socialized.  Indoor kids practiced basketball before their Sunday indoor race.  I ran 10k before award started.  Simmons packed its booth.

I got 2nd in my age group.  Casey could’ve won open category if he was there.  We would skate 2014 Montreal Duo, almost definitely.

David used the heat gun on my boots after awards.  The 2 hot spots took several iterations to identify.  Jennifer was resigned that lunch would be delayed ‘til dinner time; David told me not to worry about it.  2 of us talked about topics that interested me: bike wheels, power meter, Olympics.  I asked him why he stopped casting weighed feet; the change was one of the reasons my shinny boots were unusable. 

_post event
I said goodbye to Dan as his wife came to rescue him from locking key in his car.

It was 4 pm by the time I got back to car.  No time to hang out with Danube friends.  No time to run at Huntsville State Park. 

It felt like yesterday when I DNF’ed the 50-mile run race in Huntsville.  Events cancel; sports evolve; sicknesses occur; people struggle; lives go on.

A2A 38-mile race + 49 mile social skate. 10/6/2013

_preparation
I focused 2013 race season on Maffetone running and rarely raise heart rate above 74% max for any sport. 

I trained for A2A as “C” event but tapered and weight-controlled like “A” race.  I wanted a high place finish if the opportunity arose.

_uncertainties
1.    Gained weight and lost cardio fitness (MAF test) during Danube vacation.
2.    Injured left knee during hill repeats.
3.    Food poison Tuesday prior to race.  Core temperature and heart rate went berserk Wednesday.
4.    Rain forecast. 
5.    Right frame cracked at mounting point. 

_plan
Keep Lenny & Jessica in sight for 38 miles.  They usually became the chase pack.  Be aggressive starting at final climb.  Be ready to go off road at the final intersection.

Resupply in Dacula.  Skate to Atlanta with Luke and Casey. 

If everyone feels good, skate Silver Hill twice.

It's OK to quit at check point 5. 

_start
I had no confidence lining up next to Eddy’s costume; I couldn’t remember last time I skated fast.  “Anticipate unhappy quads.  Ignore heart rate.  Stay positive.  This is what you love to do.”   

Perhaps remembering last year’s wrong-turn incident, no one wanted to lead.  Lenny finally got in position behind Piedmont Club skinsuits.  Jessica and Morgan latched on.  I grabbed the 10th spot.  Unrecovered from NY 100K previous weekend, most pro racers ended up in the chase pack within spitting distance (world record: 100 feet 4 inches).

Lead and chase packs merged.  Having too much energy, Francisco zipped in and out of the paceline socializing bilingually. 

Posers started to show weakness when climbing.  Group shuffled at every turn.  Eddy and other contenders emerged, showing no interest in breaking away.  Francisco got his phone out for FB shots.

3 Piedmont skaters stayed up front—my competitions were controlling the pace.  Pros let them.  I couldn’t believe my good fortune.

Jessica wanted the title.  The only other visible female was Vanessa.  I was surprised not to see Marcy. 

_don’t try new things at races
When weather forecast turned favorable, I opted for the lighter CDS gloves instead of usual sliders.  At one point, I saw near-finish landmarks but dismissed my memory.  Garmin 305 said 10 miles to go; I was unaware of losing 9 miles from incidental contacts between glove’s hard palm and GPS start/stop button. 

_unexpected finished
The final ascent felt neither difficult nor final.  I focused on staying inside the pack and was oblivious to Piedmont skaters’ positions.

Someone shouted, “if you’re racing 38, you better get to the front.”  I recognized the 2 final turns [Thank you Google!], panicked, and accelerated.  The 3 Piedmont racers hesitated at the T-intersection; I sliced through the traffic like Michael Jordan.  I led the entire field.  I sprinted.  "Just go!  Don't look back!"

I wished I practiced sprinting at least once during Obama Administration.  14-year old Matthew Fortner and his dad chased me down with comical ease. 

I was stoked.  One of my skate fantasies was finishing A2A 38-Mile ahead of the pros.  My previous A2A lead pack attempt lasted only 40 minutes. 

I socialized, refueled, resupplied, and powdered my nose in next 10 minutes.  The sun was out.  Everyone was smiling.

#’s
Course: 38 miles
Time: 2:10:59
Avg speed: 17.4 mph


_49 miles to Atlanta
I got back on course as Luke and Casey rolled by.  The group also included Marcy, Bryce and Larry.  Larry helped me out in 2009 after elites dropped me. 

I started pulling.  My quads cramped, but I wanted to contribute to my friends’ experience.  “Just get to Silver Hill.  Don’t over-hydrate.”  I looked forward to see Candy Girl and Nancy at check point 5.

We picked Vanessa up who was spitted out by the lead pack.  I knew how that felt.  We picked BJ up for the 2nd year.  BJ left the lead pack too late and was unable to stay with us.

_scary moment
More cops showed up at intersections this year; not all had the same stopping power.  Bryce barely missed a car that ignored the policegirl.  Rest of us braked to avoid confrontations with large metal objects. 

Fueled by adrenaline, Bryce surged next climbs then suddenly faded.  We waited a few minutes and let him drop off the pack. 

_Silver Hill
The wind ain’t right this year.  We barely got over 40 mph. 

We prepared the 2 rookies for the climb out of Silver Hill, “lots of climbs remaining; this is the longest one.” 

_Atlanta
Marcy’s feet continued to hurt.  She had her own climbed rhythm but waited for us on the other side.  Luke cranked out steady power.  Casey’s skating form changed but kept up.  Vanessa hung on, determined not to skate alone.  I felt unexpectedly strong.  I should write Phil Maffetone a thank-you letter.

City traffic was a bit hairy.  Larry prepared a whistle that alerted police of our arrival.  Larry led a lot once the road turned flat; we had to slow him to keep the group together.

The final miles had more skateable surface than in 2012.  Thanks for the new route, Lisa. 

We entered quiet residential streets.  Larry and Marcy surged.  Luke, Casey, and I were content with the speed.  Vanessa decided to take her time now she was out of city traffic.

The new route came with a pitch black tunnel that added to the excitement.  It reminded me of the rainy Barcelona skate led by locals, “do you want the scary route or dark route?”

Three of us finished 87 miles hand in hand. 

[photo by Sandy Giffen] First to cross the line for the distance I didn’t sign up for.

#’s
Course: 87 miles
Time: 5:49:29
Avg speed: 14.9 mph

_results
Bryce came in 13 minutes behind us.  He had nerve pains and needed ice.

Morgan missed the same turn Herb and I missed in 2008.  Morgan finished the race with Jessica, who got her first A2A title.

Columbian Mauricio Garcia Sierra won the 87-mile race.  Francisco got fourth. 

Brian and Lenny skated together and averaged 17 mph.

Pat, Blake, Mike, Linchen, Rick, Greg, and David didn’t have the performances they hoped for.  It’s difficult to stay motivated through training season.

Holly finished the full distance but seemed a little rattled.

Eddy got 2nd in 87-mile race and rode Valerie's bike with skates. 

_post-race
Luke bought me lunch: “Anything you want from Taco Bell.”  “Cash register.”

Sandy’s Yaris took us to an early dinner at Flying Biscuits.  

[photo by Amada Harvey]

Stacey made a surprise appearance at award ceremony.  Everyone wanted to know what she was up to.

The rain came 20 minutes after awards.  On 27th floor of downtown Hilton, Casey and I munched on hors d’oeuvres and watched Cowboys gave the game away to Broncos--a predictable end to a great race weekend.

Hotter n Hell 50-mile skate 8/24/2013

2013 ended up another year with few bike miles.  Skating 50-mile would help preparing for A2A.  Casey joined me for the trip 2 weeks after his heart surgery. 

_expo
Bought 10 pairs of colorful socks for mom.  It’s a better investment than flowers.

Attempted and failed to find Donna a Pneumo replacement.  Apparently Giro crowded out Pneumo and Iono with Atmo and Aeon. 

During the final hour, I was offered a great deal on Rudy Project photochromic Fire Bolt but failed to recognize the value.  Still kicking myself.

_dinner
The spaghetti dinner price continued to climb.  $9 dinner now comes with local wine; it validated Texas' ranking among wine producing regions.

_50-mile skate
I tried to stay in Maffetone HR range.  Casey stayed with me in still-new custom Bonts.  We were careful to avoid 100k route.  Road surface were within expectation.

We carried only 1 water bottle: should be enough if we drink at rest stops and get to Highway 44 before sun gets hot.

_high speed zone
2 triathletes encouraged us on a black ice section.  I lost my resolve and went outside of Maff zone.  Casey and I enjoyed a few glorious miles in 2 TT bikes' slipstreams.

_rest stops
We went through first stops quickly to minimize breaks when we didn't need it.  We conversed with cyclists for the last 3 elaborate rest stops.  Some Dallas cyclists recognize the jersey. 

We spent extra time at the airplanes talking to a young soldier who tried to figure out what to do with rest of her life.

#'s
skates: custom Simmons boots, carbon Hopi frames, 100mm Street Fight wheels
GPS distance: 53.5 miles
avg/max HR: 138/178 bpm
avg speed (including stops): 10.9 mph

El Scorcho 25k 7/21/2013 midnight run

I was determined to have good lunch truck food with a beer this time.  Casey and I chose the shorter distance.  I would train through this race.

_long-term athletic goal
USADA investigation and other events shifted my view of athletic lives.  I reevaluated what I want out of endurance sports.  My running speed continued to improved, but many aspects of my pursue became numb routines.  While not sidelined, my body felt unrecovered most of the year.  

Every time I came to a fork between fitness and health, I picked the less healthy route.  “Why am I doing this?”

_running progress
I became proficient at 5k and half but failed repeatedly to hold pace beyond mile 20.  Other indicators also showed I was no longer a cardio animal.

I tried to hired a coach, but no one convinced me he could train me more efficiently than I could.

_new training method: Maffetone
I met Mark Allen after a RBM group ride.  He made every effort not to point out my approach to endurance was idiotic.  He credited Phil Maffetone for leading him to heart rate training.

Ultra runner Lucho finally turned me to Maffetone method via podcasts.  I initially dismissed the low heart training not because of lacking faith; I thought low HR would be boring and no fun.  I also avoided method because Maffetone did not provide clear training guideline beyond “listen to your body.”  I wanted clear schedule: pace, duration, and frequency.

After giving up on Hidgon’s program, I started Maff in July 2013.  Unexpected benefits
1.  I became less fearful of long runs.
2.  Nutrition became simple: No longer needed to watch carb during sessions.
The downside was the long training time ate into other aspects of my life.  I felt I should do more between sessions.

Nutrition was an important aspect of Maffetone method.  I did a half ass job <= social and time penalty involved.

It’s difficult to quantify the benefit, but 2 months into Maffetone method, my pace improved by 1 min/mile (unadjusted for lower air temperature). 

_race day
I woke up at 6am and rode the bike for 3.75 hrs followed by futile effort to collect data on Simmons boots.  I looked at the 4 exterior doors that needed paint.  The house continued to be a resource pit.

Casey and I found parking lot dramalessly.  I'd stay in Maff zone; Casey would go much harder.

_Nutrition
I did zero preparation and relied on on-course water.  I didn't need to ingest on-course calorie at that HR.

It was frustrating to hold back while others passed me.  2 laps into the race, I was the only one with energy for conversation.  I finished the race and felt relaxed. 

_#
avg/max HR: 139/145

parcipants:50k: 74; 25k: 329

splits/lap pace:
     5K       8:26/M
   10K       8:47/M
   15K       8:47/M
   20K       8:57/M
   25K       9:14/M
   overall: 8:50/M

_post race
Lunch truck & beer didn't feel appetizing.

Ol South Pancake House was known for its German Pancake. 
I couldn’t bear the thought of the sugar and white flour going through my system. 
A year ago, I’d jump at the chance of tasting new food. 
Casey and I each ate an omelet.  Healthy eating could be a pain.

Quads and hamstrings were stiff after 4 hours of sleep.  It took a while to get going for the afternoon 5-mile run.

upcoming events:
8/25 Hotter n Hell.  50-mile skate.  "C" event.
8/31 Vacation along Danube.  Minimize fitness loss & weight gain.
10/6 A2A 38-mile skate.  "C" race.
12/8 Dallas Marathon.  "A" race.

Wounded Warrior Half Marathon 6/9/2013

I didn’t think much when Casey expressed interest in this low-overhead half; all I knew about the event were the date, distance, and that it’s close to Casey’s condo.  It would be a good training run during off-season.

_goal
I used the “D” race as December 2013 Dallas Marathon simulation.
1.    Injury free.
2.    Negative split.
3.    Boston qualifying pace: 100-minute finish.

_weather
I arrived the course early enough to claim the best parking spot in William Square west garage.  If there were 3-second warning before the parking tower collapsed, I had a chance of getting out.

A megaphone-equipped volunteered announced the first 15-minute weather delay.  Like many others, I walked back to my car and lost myself in phone surfing.  I found no race update via website, tweeter, or facebook.  Megaphone drove by to announce each new start time. 

The race eventually started after 75-minute delay.

_steeplechase
I set Garmin 305 to 7:44 pace.  I counted on fast final 5k.  Due to Marriott washroom line, I started 200 runners back.  This turned out fortunate: the first group ran through calf-deep water at the spillway.  We slower starters detoured after seeing the depth. 

I ingested 150 calories shortly before the gun.  The beans and gel weren’t totally happy in the stomach at marathon effort.  The air was 30 degrees F higher than ideal with 100% humidity.  I wasn’t overheating at this pace.

_pacing
Everyone around me accelerated around 5k mark.  I held back.  I spotted VJ from Plano Pacers.  VJ was unaware of pacing strategies beyond perceived effort.  I became his rabbit.

Running half marathon at marathon pace was relaxing.  I socialized with runners around me.  I realized how much I feared the wall during first 13 miles of Irving Marathon.  VJ started to struggle.  I updated him on quarter-mile splits, remaining distances, and projected finish times—information mostly useless to a runner unable to keep up.  By mile 9 we lost double-digit every quarter mile.  He gave up the pace after the climb to the bridge above the spillway. 

_run by feel
5k to go.  I surged.  Legs didn’t enjoy sub-7:00 pace.  I lack incentive to dig and stick to 100-minute goal.  I ran against the wind at steady pace.

Half and 10k courses merged.  I passed fully geared soldiers.  I thanked them.  Unusual numbers of obese females walked the 10k.  I had difficulty suppressing judgments.  I didn’t know their stories other than they showed up for a charity event for wounded soldiers.  I encourage them and moved on.

_post-race
Finish line nutrition were limited to
1.    Water
2.    Sugar water with artificial color
3.    Pancake with very long line
4.    Muscle milk racers weren’t allowed to have because “they’re not cold yet, maybe another 10 minutes.”
I was hoping for banana and chocolate milk.

Casey and I went to Corner Bakery for brunch. 

During the drive home, I thought about Alexie’s _The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time indian_ and Roll’s _Finding Ultra_--2 bios I recently read.  I recalled out-of-shape participants and thought “that could’ve been me.”

Katy 5k 5/10/2013

I came close to cancel the event as weather looked ugly; outdoor eating wouldn’t be fun given rain and mud.  Then I remembered promising mom the event T-shirt.

_Goal
Earlier in the year, I aimed for sub-20-minute.
The legs weren’t recovered from Irving Marathon.  I changed the event goal to PR: 20:27 @ 6:33 pace.

_Race
Rain stopped in time for the event.

The staging went great ‘til the announcer moved the 2 soldiers to the front; they carried full gear and the American flag.  I imagined David Goggins and Dean Karnazes would run at 6:30 pace carrying 40-lb backpack.

I lost 40 feet at the narrow start as expected.  I didn’t expected a water station volunteer to knock the cup out of my hand then hit my chest after handed me the water.  I had to laugh.  It was probably the first cup he ever handed out.

I struggled at last quarter mile and failed to go sub 6:00 pace during final sprint.

_#'s
morning weight: 139.4 lb.
time: 20:31 @ 6:34 pace.
Place: 158 / 3563
shoes: Green Silence

_Food
It’s difficult to predict what runners desire after 5k.  Popcorn did well.  The longest line was in front of patties and hotdogs on a grill.

I was surprised to see beef tartare on bread slice.  I ate my registration fee between raw cow and Times Ten Cellars.

Irving Marathon 4/27/2013 (2nd failed attempt to BQ)

Boston Qualifier.  Certification #: TX13063ETM

I dismissed the event when first learned of it: weather was unlikely to be ideal; things tended to go wrong at inaugural events; I didn't want to give up spring long run and Texas Road Rash.

_Decision
Casey emailed me 2 days after the 100k day, "The Irving Marathon got certified as BC qualifier." 

Peaking for a marathon 20 days after 100k was out of question.  My 2008 12-hour and 24-hour skates took over a month to recover. 

“Can I PR by 8 minutes without marathon specific training?”  I thought I had a chance if weather cooperated.  According to VO2-based calculator, my theoretical marathon time was 3:14:06.  I need 3:19:59.  Minimally, I had a chance for another meltdown, which would become fun memory.  Scott Jurek won Western State and Badwater 2 weeks apart.  Sometimes bodies would rise enough for the occasions.

_2013 Boston Marathon Bombing.  4/15/2013
My brain couldn’t process a friend’s text that Monday; he thought I was in Boston. 
For days running 2014 Boston felt like a calling.  I wasn’t the only one.  The interest to qualify skyrocketed that week.

(from http://running.competitor.com/2013/04/news/want-to-qualify-for-boston-in-2014_70892)

_Preparation
Recovery from 100k and tapering for marathon coincided.
Things within my control
1.    staying skinny
2.    minimum training
3.    rest
4.    carbo load

_Condition
Forecast was on the money: 67F, 84% humidity at 7:30am. 
Casey called 11 hours before the gun: south end of the course was on utility road with sharp rocks.  WTF.

_Race
Garmin 305 paced me at 7:33 for a 3:17:57 finish.  This leaves 1% margin.

4 distances started at the same time: 5k, 10k, half, full.  I loved the timer's expression when he saw the 2 barefoot runners without shoe lace for his disposable chips.  He seemed to ponder over the no-shoe-no-service policy but finally approached the 2 runners, "come see me when you finish."

The utility road wasn't bad during the first loop.  I avoided the bigger rocks by picking landing spots.  A barefoot runner ran gingerly on grass; the other disappeared.

The course was 7 miles of trail; 2 loops; 2 U-turns per loop.  I didn't anticipate half marathoners’ moral support when I started loop 2.  I also didn't anticipate 7:33 pace would put me in 7th place.  I overtook 1 guy at 3rd U-turn and started to fantasize 43-minute final 10k to get on men’s podium, "I just need 1 guy to falter."

14 miles flew by.  Legs' unhappiness became noticeable.  I increased cadence to make up for stiffness.  This worked for another 5k.  I started to lose time.  I burned a match at every hill.  I was hopeful of 3:19:59 finish.  I prepared myself to go anaerobic.  "Last 10k is gonna hurt."

_"20 miles of hope and 6.2 miles of reality"
I expected 2nd wind or the wall; instead, I got cramps.  Left calf and hamstrings shrank the moment I grabbed a Chick-fil-A cup.  I kept the pace and ended up limping.  I walked a bit then started jogging.  Boston was out of reach.

2 guys passed me before the levee.  I didn't respond.  Footing was difficult on the unpaved surface.  Hot spots formed inside of shoes.  The laces bit.  I walked the final U-turn and saw an Indian dude catching up.  I resumed running.  “I can still finish top-10.”

A smiling Kristen Rains caught me on the pavement.  I stayed with her.  She smiled, "we're almost done." She high kicked then sped away.  I was Wile E Coyote.

Mile 22 was a funny state of mind.  With each step, the finish became farther.  I resorted to Ironman shuffle.  "Just keep moving." 

Half marathoners took breaks from their phone conversations to make eye contacts: "You can catch her!" "You're almost there!" "Looking strong!"  I appreciated these lies from complete strangers.  I was surprised those hairy Indian legs hadn't caught up. 

The last 4 miles felt like 4 hours.  I crossed the line within a minute of 2 other guys.  We placed 9th  ~ 11th behind 2 girls.

This guy didn't beat me (image off official YouTube video)



_#’s
time: 3:35:06
pace: 8:12
place: 10/220
blister: 2
black toe nail: 1

In addition to $450 prize, Joe Beislver’s 6:25 pace won him 366-day supply of Chick-fil-A.


_Pre-race physical activities:
-20 days.  100k run in 24 hours.
-13 days.  28-mile skate at Road Rash.  5-mile cool down run.
-12 days.  6x800.  Sluggish during warm up.  Smooth sailing after first rep.
-9 days.  5k tempo.  Leg sore throughout the run.  I skipped the last 1k.
-7 days.  Long run at 8:44 pace.  Legs didn’t like it.  I shorten the run to 10k and questioned my ability to finish marathon at any pace.
-3 days.  1-mile tempo.  The weather and my body peaked for this low-humidity 40F day: I woke up 135.8 lb and pain-free.  6:55 pace felt like jogging. 

_nutrition
I carbo-loaded for 3 days and gained 2.0 lbs by race morning.  I stapled 4 gels to waste band in addition to the 2 gels in the hat pockets.  This worked well.  I wasn't even hungry after the race.  Gel and liquid went well at 7:33 pace heart rate.

2 lb felt like a stiff penalty for a full tank of glycogen.

_things for organizer to improve
1.    The course map was based on a visually pleasing rendering of the trail with weird orientation.  Outlines of the river were, err, beautified.  I visualized a graphic artist who's never good at reading maps.
2.    It was unclear whether racers could sign up at packet pick up.  Many wasted $7.5 on active.com.
3.    It was unclear whether the trail would be closed to non-event traffic.
4.    Volunteers received insufficient training.  At one point an aid vehicle impeded my progress.  Another volunteer expected me to come a complete stop for water.
5.    1 water station ran out of water the first hour. 
6.    300:1 racer-to-porta-potty ratio.
7.    Parking.  The race was delayed half hour.
8.    The delay was announced late.
9.    The announcer had different instructions for the start than official literature.  I was among "fuck it, I'm starting from the front."
10.    It’s uncool to advertise “The course is a paved, 12’ wide trail” when sharp stones on unpaved road were involved.

Texas Road Rash 04/14/2013

2013 was the closest I came to cancel the trip: legs weren’t recovered from the 100k day; I didn't practice pace line in 2013; Jenny’s entire family was sick, including the Border Collies; I tried to recover for the Boston Marathon qualifier 13 days away.

I thought about friends at the events vs. cost.  I kept the trip on schedule.  Aunt Sherry could use some replacement Pyrex lids.

_Excursions
Casey and I exited the high way when we thought Robertson’s was a restaurant.  It turned out ot be a cute little store selling decent sandwich. 

Shopping didn’t work out at Round Rock outlet mall.  Corning closed its store.  Oakley Transitions had a cool demo; I embarrassed a salesperson by asking about the price.

_Boot maker
David and Jennifer Simmons traveled to the race with casting kit.  I debated whether to acquire more skates.  The 2005 laced boots were all-purpose while Mojos were only suitable for short events.  A back up would reduce the risk of last minute repair like 2011.  I considered other toys on my list: TT bike frame, power meter, massage chair, pool robot, and kitchen counter.  New skates had high ROI.


I research frame options.  Simmons wasn’t the best value, but it’d eliminate 1 excuse for height issues.  I chose stability over roll and went with 3x110 hi-lo. 

photo by Donnie Lucas


I monopolized the craftsman’s time.  I explained my Mojo problems.  David watched me skate and explained “it’s all in the cast.”  He had to say that twice before I grasped the implication.  David offered to fix and update the early generation Mojos free of charge.

Jordan showed up.  I had a million questions but decided to go with a simple hello.  I didn’t need to risk ruining his day with wrong topics.  I learned my lesson with KC Boutiette.  Olympic was a double edge sword.  After all the sacrifices, the bronze medalist would leave the career at age of 29 to face a world where most wouldn't care about his stories.  I felt for him.

Casey had his feet molded at Bont booth by multi-tasking Debbie Rice.  Casey had to help manning the booth.

_Friends
I was happy to see Candy but not the ankle extrusion.  She kept her promise on version control.

Jessica was slightly taller than I remembered. 

photo by Shelley Kautz

I was glad to see Luke--always fun to skate with.  He didn’t sing at this race.

Shelley brought mom.  Her smile was infectious.

It was fun talking to Donnie and Doris over dinner.  Doris gave thoughtful answers regarding Popemobile.

Ryan McGee sold his Ninja and was no longer dating Asian southern California females.  I hope he’ll be Dr. McGee next time we meet so we can forget about his Justin Bieber past.

I sought vegetarian nutrition advice from Brian Shicoff and Rob Bell.

Mackowski showed up with mostly healed wounds.  I didn’t expect to see Jerry and didn’t know his race plan.  Timo stayed at his lake house watching The Masters.  “Tiger is playing!”

I saw a guy warming up in Ragbrai jersey.  I introduced myself to Jamie and didn’t think I’d see him again.

_Wave start
I let the lead pack go.  Casey and Tom started at compatible speed; I joined the group.

Casey’s quads radiated excessive energy.  We stayed in front.  I wanted a safe team skate and arrogantly assumed 3 of us were sufficient to control the pack.  I wished I discussed strategy with teammates before the gun. 


Doug shouted instructions to his kids, which boiled down to “patience!”

I barked invitations, directions, and encouragements.  I was Mike Harris.  I missed coach’s presence.  The pack grew in size: Bob, Luke, Jamie, and lots of pint-size skinsuits.  Skaters sitting in for free ride.  I didn’t care.  I just wanted a good skate with friends.


I focused on steady pace.  Casey was the strong man and pulled the lion’s share.  Tom led the long downhill; I wanted him to take no chances but didn’t expect him to skate so hard against wind.  A kid with T-shirt over skinsuit couldn’t wait; I let him go.  We swallowed him back in--multiple times.  We picked up racers with unwise starts.

We lifted the pace at lap 3 then let the half-marathoners go.  No marathoner tried to escape.  I felt confident about the 2nd half.

Lap 4.  I took over after Tom’s downhill pull.  My legs didn’t respond.  I asked Luke for help on Hwy 79.  Jamie also chipped in.  Tom showed signs of fatigue.  I was no longer confident.  I focused on staying relaxed.

photo by Shelley Kautz

Lap 5 was uneventful.  Skaters lacked cooperation or incentive to attack.  We settled into the slower pace and picked up more racers spitted out by other packs.  Casey seemed ready to kick into the next gear.

The pros lapped us.  Justin Stelly and Rob Bell worked hard in the pack of 3.  The only pro I recognized was Alex.  He looked less like He-Man this year.

Final lap.  We picked up more skaters, mostly temporarily.  Casey made moves.  Half the pack couldn’t respond.  I asked him to wait.  He had no one to race against and didn’t need another cheese grater in “open” category. 

Bob Harwell hung tough; he’s my hero.  Tom skated with decreased steadiness after his final pull; I stayed with him.  A few kids attacked indecisively therefore annoyingly.  Candy skated by herself; Gentleman Casey opened a comically large gap to let the famed racer in.  Jamie improved my sense-of-direction ranking by making a wrong turn a mile before finish. 

Young racers got in position for sprint; you could see gears turning in their heads.  Casey pulled them.  The scramble for the line wasn’t overly chaotic.  Most of us were tired and/or old. 

_Post race
I tried to take frames off and stripped a mounting bolt.  David Simmons helped me out.  If all went according to plan, these Mojos would become my rec skates.

Casey and I ran a lap.  It felt good.


Avg: 18.0 mph   
Distance: 28.2 miles
Time: 1:33:51.28
Lap 1     15:40.57    18.0mph     4.700     15:40.57
Lap 2     15:51.59    17.8mph     9.400     31:32.16
Lap 3     15:36.84    18.1mph     14.100     47:09.00
Lap 4     15:35.98    18.1mph     18.800     1:02:44.98
Lap 5     15:44.05    17.9mph     23.500     1:18:29.03
Lap 6     15:22.25    18.4mph     28.200     1:33:51.28

110k Long Run 4/6/2013

Timing wasn’t perfect: I wasn’t recovered from last race.  Ultra marathon was a poor way to prepare for Texas Road Rash.  But there were limited weekends outside of racing season.  This could be my best chance for 100k.

Goal: 100k in 24 hours.

_Logistic
A safe approach was to use the house as the base and return often.  This worked well in 2012.  Kay and Voon signed up for a White Rock 5k on this Saturday morning; running a 5k with her friend was Kay's fitness goal.  I wanted to be there. 

_Running to a 5k race
I planned a route to the 8am race using Google map.  I picked only familiar paths.  I was concerned about White Rock Creek Trail: it cut through car traffic, but 1 bridge could be flooded.  I would be easy to rob.  Driving would sidestep many issues, but running 19.3 miles to a 5k start was appealing.  I memorized the route for 3:30am start time. 

_Behind schedule
I shoved down calories with coffee, wanting to reduce luggage.  I played Midori SACD that prepared me for the half marathon 13 days ago.  The concerto sounded different.

I had too much stuff to carry and eventually found a way to balance gels, sunglasses, headlamp, iPod, and visor on my head.  I organized the Fuel Belt such that using the phone wouldn't require exposing cab fare.  I got out the door 10 minutes late.  I was down to 20 spare minutes to reach registration before 7:30am deadline. 

GPS was set to 11:00 pace.  When too far ahead, I walked the climbs to bleed average speed.  Weather was nice. 

_Detour
I had fond memory of White Rock Creek Trail: the first back spasm, re-learning skate stride, and meeting Texas Flyers.  I entered the dark parking lot, turned on the headlamp, and was greeted by the sign "White Rock Creek Trail Closed.  Use Cottonwood Trail….” 

I didn't know whether the Cottonwood was a trail or a street; I didn't know if it would help me cross the interstate highway.  I could
1.  whip out the phone to search for a new route, but I didn't want to increase my mug-ability.
2.  use car-friendly route, which would add 5k to my run; I didn't have extra 33 minutes.
3.  trust the trail to be usable on the other side of the 4-lane highways. 

I turned on my sense of direction and ran through LBJ construction then along Central service road.  This reminded me of Mackowski's interstate shoulder skate at Tour de Donut.  I located the trail 15 feet below Central Expressway. 

The detour cost 20 minutes.  I started to skip walking breaks.

Over the concrete barrier at the construction site, something resembling police crime scene tape caught the visor and yanked stuff off my head.  I looked at $300 of merchandise on gravel and marveled how complicated my running had become.  Miraculous, the 5' drop didn't damage the iPod, Oakley, and Petzl.  I changed my mind on ROI of Oakley Transitions lenses.

The final challenge was sidewalk-less residential area along Buckner Blvd.  I didn’t anticipated wet lawns.  Keep socks dry was a priority.  I ran on medians and inside car lane against traffic. 


_5/15k race
I ran with Voon and Kay averaging 11:00 pace.  I gain new perspectives watching runners at this speed.  I was amazed at Kay’s efficient strides and conjectured spine and muscle pain shortened the feedback loop--much like running barefoot.

Voon set a 5k PR.

_Weekend morning with friends
I joined Timo and Casey’s 15k’s final mile.  It was a nice surprise to see Shelley and other Pegasus Flyers.  They skated Tour Dallas.

Casey was my sponsor for the day.  He provided sunscreen, replacement gels, and bought me taco plate at Fuzzy's. 

Timo seemed surprised that I used shrimp tacos as fuel but didn’t argue with its scientific principal: assuming a skinny Asian could ingest 60 hotdogs in 10 minutes....

_Nutrition
Dehydration was the main concerned.  I learned the hard way my body didn't absorb water at sufficient rate.  I sidestepped the issue by spreading the miles throughout the day.  I carried 2 10-oz bottles in Fuel Belt.  32-oz Gatorade was easy to find.

_Round 2
Running became easier after Casey collected the unneeded gear.  Taking off headlamp was a big relief.  I held 11:00 pace with no drama for a few miles after brunch. 

_Issues
I tallied surprises and mistakes around 50k:
Trail closure
Dropping headlamp, iPod, sunglasses
Losing mileage on GPS due to user error
Forgetting to store iPod in car for 5k
Forgetting sun screen before round 2
Losing 1 headphone insulator when getting it out of visor packet

Long events were engineering as much as biomechanical challenges.

_Detour (part 2)
Cottonwood Trail was easy to identify at the south end.  It never came near the detour sign for White Rock Creek.  1 year into the 5-year construction, Dallas had not put up a reasonable sign for trail closure.  I felt the city council loathe non-motorists.  I fantasized taking that triathlon-friendly J2EE job in Boulder, Colorado.

The trail took me to neighborhood where gas stations’ main traffic was lottery enthusiasts.  I felt like an intruder standing in line to pay for Gatorade with Visa.  Times like this reminded me that logic and reason were often irrelevant.  非我族類其心必異.  Not a comforting thought.

_Undertrained
Beyond the annual long run, I didn't practice the pace, nutrition, walking, and equipment.  I was inexperienced in dealing with fatigue beyond marathon. 

I lost the will to run somewhere around mile 38.  I wasn’t hurting exactly, but without conscious effort, I found myself slowed to a walk—reminiscent of eating donut #18 when I beat Mackowski at the donut race.

_Rest
I made it home by 4pm to discover uncle & aunt dropped off fresh eggs, fruits, vegi, and mochi.  It was sweet.  I was still a kid in their eyes.  The eggs came with feathers.

I made Muscle Milk blueberry smoothie and noticed minutes elapse between sips.  I didn't feel tired but dozed off when not in motion.  I ate a quick dinner then went to bed after shower.  I needed 14.5 miles in 11 hours, plenty of time. 

_Round 3
I woke up at 9:45pm unmotivated.  I looked for excuses to shorten the run but finally made it out of door by 11pm.  “Just run 5-mile loop 3 times.  Just do it!”

_Eat and Run_
I sometimes felt the authors tailored their stories for me.  I saved _Eat and Run_ for 2013 long run.  Scott Jurek articulated the mechanism that made ultras difficult as my average speed dropped below a fast walker. 

Jurek and I shared certain social challenges.  I faced similar cross roads that led to his conversion to plant-based diet.  Maybe long runs heightened my ability to relate to others.  There were parts I thought he was reading my mind.

After all these years, it’s still weird to hear Chinese philosophy terms in English.  This book included multiple vomits and recipes for guacamole and other dishes.

My natural running pace was now 11:30 min-mile, as opposed to 8:30 pace marathon training’s recovery run. 

_Random thoughts
After finishing Jurek’s 8-hour book, I continued with Updike’s _Rabbit is Rich_.  Some scenes were incompatible with physical activity.  I turned iPod off and let my mind wonder.

Biff would start Ironman Texas 70.3 in a few hours.
Aunt Sherry ate her first Whataburger after 30 years in the US.
Roger Ebert passed away.
Family in Taiwan faced new health challenges.
Ninja’s master cylinder failed.
Endless house maintenance: DE filter pressure gauge, RO filters, door paint, landscape.  “Why do I own 4 exterior doors and 4 toilets?”
A tooth seemed to have cracked.
“Aren’t long runs supposed to clear my mind?” 

I was mostly walking by now.  There wasn’t enough time to finish 100k by walking.  I didn’t care.  I started to think about food for next 24 hours.

_Wrapping up
I made the final stop at the house to defrost edamame, bacon, crab cake, shishamo, clams, and chicken.  Great culinary experience was more about context than best of everything--I looked forward to finish that bottle of awful sauvignon blanc with salty fish.

_Final miles
I listened to David Sedaris for the final loop.  Plano cops didn’t hassle me; I wondered how often they saw laughing runners with sun visor 3 in the morning.  I wondered what would happen if I flagged the cruiser down and offer to buy coffee and donuts.

5k to go.  I tried sub-8:00 pace; it didn’t happen.  I had to focus to hold any single-digit pace.  I reached home 7 minutes before 24-hour deadline.

_#'s
3:39am        47.4 mi@12:30
11:00pm    10.4 mi@16.11
2:32am        4.8 mi@12:29

total:         100.7 km + unrecorded distance in 23:53:00