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Ran a 10k - Official Thread (7 Viewers)
- Thread starter Ned
- Start date
ChiefD
Footballguy
No.Don't remember where some responded, but I think others considering it....
@The Iguana?
@Zasada?
@SteelCurtain?
So those 3 along with me, @tri-man 47, and @ChiefD?
That's 6 AND we are all over 40 years old which means we get Masters. Looking at last year, 1st place Masters was 7:49 pace. I know no one cares about medals (right, @tri-man 47?), but....
Juxtatarot
Footballguy
The whole post was great but this part connects with me as I feel the same way. I sometimes give the “just run” advice to new runners here and this is why. It’s going to be a long learning process regardless so just get started, try to enjoy it, and don’t worry about little things too much.
By the way, I forget about the stubborn old Mac. Everything you write in recent years is so wise and insightful!
I’m looking forward to your BQ this spring!
pbm107
Footballguy
2010 year 1 PG (Pre-garmin)
Wedding band fit well during this time. I got married in 2001 and remember my parent’s swollen fingers around their rings, so I purchased a size up anticipating that I would gain weight during my marriage. In 2010 was the definition of skinny fat being 6’ 1” 205 and drinking soda every day. My sister convinced me to sign up for a spring 5k series and this was my start back into running. My first 5K was a 22:23 and worked my way down to 20:31 that spring. That fall I had a really tough half marathon in which I finished in 1:56 and I almost gave up on running after that experience, in the end it really shaped how I trained the years after that. I needed to run more miles.
2011
This is the year where one of my coworkers got me signup for the Broad Street run and run on the corporate team and I got my first garmin. I tried to stay with that coworker at Broad Street but I wasn’t fit enough to do so. This was the first and only time I was forced into the medical tent for a race. This is also the last time this coworker has beaten me in a race, he is 12 years older than me. I needed to run more miles.
2012
I beat my coworker at Broad Street and convince him to run a marathon.
My first day of marathon training, running long before work.
First marathon, I still don’t know how I did what I did that day.
2013
This is the first year that I followed a Pfitz plan, and I got my first BQ.
2014
Down year for me, didn’t sign up for a marathon because I knew I was running Boston 2015. Ended up with an injured hamstring which hampered my Boston training. That fall is when I started posting in the thread here as I was inspired by the year of @Ned
2015
Probably my most successful year of running, the year that I ran the most miles. Met @gruecd and @tri-man 47 and PRed at Boston. First summer of Strava around here and it inspired a lot of strong performances around here. I met @Ned at a 10k and I set a huge PR. My first sub 3 marathon later at Philly.
2016
Started a new job this year which was a bigger adjustment than expected. @Juxtatarot committed to race Broad Street with me and I really trained hard that spring. I set PRs that I haven’t beat since in the 10 mile and half marathon that spring. That summer I wanted to keep up the training but my body said no. I don’t know if it was the stress of the new job or the previous 18 months of training but I was cooked.
2017
This was all about the slow build up back into shape. I tried following the formula of 2015, but I didn’t quite get there with 2 disappointing marathons. The work I put in this year didn’t pay off in PRs in 2017, but now I believe it set me up for a strong 2018.
2018
One of my old training partners suggested that I focus on some shorter stuff and I went with it. I followed a 5K training plan and set PRs in the 5 mile and 5K that winter/spring. I peaked in April and ran a 36:30 10k in a training run, this is the best I have ever felt as a runner. I had 2 bad days this year and they just happened to be 2 of my goal races, Broad Street Run and Rock N Roll Philly. I followed Hansons for my Fall marathon and enjoyed the plan running a small PR in the marathon.
2019
Started the year off with minor calf injury and decided my focus would be to PR the half as I felt it was my softest PR. For my spring half I knew I wasn’t making the progress I desired following the Hansons half plan but figured that was due to starting off injured. Tried the Hanson’s half plan in the fall and I gave it my all, but I wasn’t able to get in PR shape. Mileage ended up being the lowest it has been in a while. Rehoboth didn’t go so well with the exception of meeting @bushdocda.
2020
My wedding band doesn’t fit, way too loose so I don’t wear it. I really don’t know what is in my future with running. I know I have put in a lot of serious work in the past and I question whether it is worth it to put in the work for a potential PR. On the other hand I realize that I am kind of an all or nothing kind of person and if I stop this bad habits might replace the running. Running this decade has been really good to me, I have met some amazing people and even got some of my friends into running. I didn’t know how unhealthy I was until I got in shape.
We have some newer friends that have seen pictures of me from 2008 and are surprised to see that was me. A couple of days ago my brother in law’s father was shocked to learn that I was older than his son. My grandfather was a diabetic, both my parents are and I think it’s likely that if I continued on the path I was on prior to 2010 I’d be one now too. I don’t know what I will do this year, but my goal for the month of January is to set a January mileage PR (267). Long term I would love to race Boston at least once post retirement.
I finished the decade with 19,638 miles, and I probably ran less than 100 the decade before. Happy New Year’s everyone, this thread and Strava group is really special thing.
Wedding band fit well during this time. I got married in 2001 and remember my parent’s swollen fingers around their rings, so I purchased a size up anticipating that I would gain weight during my marriage. In 2010 was the definition of skinny fat being 6’ 1” 205 and drinking soda every day. My sister convinced me to sign up for a spring 5k series and this was my start back into running. My first 5K was a 22:23 and worked my way down to 20:31 that spring. That fall I had a really tough half marathon in which I finished in 1:56 and I almost gave up on running after that experience, in the end it really shaped how I trained the years after that. I needed to run more miles.
2011
This is the year where one of my coworkers got me signup for the Broad Street run and run on the corporate team and I got my first garmin. I tried to stay with that coworker at Broad Street but I wasn’t fit enough to do so. This was the first and only time I was forced into the medical tent for a race. This is also the last time this coworker has beaten me in a race, he is 12 years older than me. I needed to run more miles.
2012
I beat my coworker at Broad Street and convince him to run a marathon.
My first day of marathon training, running long before work.
First marathon, I still don’t know how I did what I did that day.
2013
This is the first year that I followed a Pfitz plan, and I got my first BQ.
2014
Down year for me, didn’t sign up for a marathon because I knew I was running Boston 2015. Ended up with an injured hamstring which hampered my Boston training. That fall is when I started posting in the thread here as I was inspired by the year of @Ned
2015
Probably my most successful year of running, the year that I ran the most miles. Met @gruecd and @tri-man 47 and PRed at Boston. First summer of Strava around here and it inspired a lot of strong performances around here. I met @Ned at a 10k and I set a huge PR. My first sub 3 marathon later at Philly.
2016
Started a new job this year which was a bigger adjustment than expected. @Juxtatarot committed to race Broad Street with me and I really trained hard that spring. I set PRs that I haven’t beat since in the 10 mile and half marathon that spring. That summer I wanted to keep up the training but my body said no. I don’t know if it was the stress of the new job or the previous 18 months of training but I was cooked.
2017
This was all about the slow build up back into shape. I tried following the formula of 2015, but I didn’t quite get there with 2 disappointing marathons. The work I put in this year didn’t pay off in PRs in 2017, but now I believe it set me up for a strong 2018.
2018
One of my old training partners suggested that I focus on some shorter stuff and I went with it. I followed a 5K training plan and set PRs in the 5 mile and 5K that winter/spring. I peaked in April and ran a 36:30 10k in a training run, this is the best I have ever felt as a runner. I had 2 bad days this year and they just happened to be 2 of my goal races, Broad Street Run and Rock N Roll Philly. I followed Hansons for my Fall marathon and enjoyed the plan running a small PR in the marathon.
2019
Started the year off with minor calf injury and decided my focus would be to PR the half as I felt it was my softest PR. For my spring half I knew I wasn’t making the progress I desired following the Hansons half plan but figured that was due to starting off injured. Tried the Hanson’s half plan in the fall and I gave it my all, but I wasn’t able to get in PR shape. Mileage ended up being the lowest it has been in a while. Rehoboth didn’t go so well with the exception of meeting @bushdocda.
2020
My wedding band doesn’t fit, way too loose so I don’t wear it. I really don’t know what is in my future with running. I know I have put in a lot of serious work in the past and I question whether it is worth it to put in the work for a potential PR. On the other hand I realize that I am kind of an all or nothing kind of person and if I stop this bad habits might replace the running. Running this decade has been really good to me, I have met some amazing people and even got some of my friends into running. I didn’t know how unhealthy I was until I got in shape.
We have some newer friends that have seen pictures of me from 2008 and are surprised to see that was me. A couple of days ago my brother in law’s father was shocked to learn that I was older than his son. My grandfather was a diabetic, both my parents are and I think it’s likely that if I continued on the path I was on prior to 2010 I’d be one now too. I don’t know what I will do this year, but my goal for the month of January is to set a January mileage PR (267). Long term I would love to race Boston at least once post retirement.
I finished the decade with 19,638 miles, and I probably ran less than 100 the decade before. Happy New Year’s everyone, this thread and Strava group is really special thing.
Zasada
Footballguy
I know you need 100%, but if you're willing to accept 80% confidence, I'm in. Work sometimes gets in the way of stuff on short notice. Which isn't a problem when it's just me racing, but I'd hate to let you guys down.Don't remember where some responded, but I think others considering it....
@The Iguana?
@Zasada?
@SteelCurtain?
So those 3 along with me, @tri-man 47, and @ChiefD?
That's 6 AND we are all over 40 years old which means we get Masters. Looking at last year, 1st place Masters was 7:49 pace. I know no one cares about medals (right, @tri-man 47?), but....
So what I'm saying is that I'd love to join but if you have someone else who can truly commit, I'm happy to sit on reserve. Otherwise, sign me up.
Zasada
Footballguy
gianmarco
Footballguy
He'll be here because he knows I'll drive out to KC and kick him in the balls after stealing all his shovels if he doesn't.
Zasada
Footballguy
I have a pink shovel in my garage (really, I do), and if my wife will let me, I'll bring it to STL as bait.
Juxtatarot
Footballguy
A Review of the Decade
Your decade of running+ and racing
To start the decade I had run a total of two races, both marathons. I got a 3:26 on the second one in October 2009 and was really pleased by that. I wasn’t active in the 10K thread but I lurked upon occasion.
I couldn’t beat that time for the next few years due to sporadic, haphazard training, bad weather and injuries.
In 2012 I started getting more active in the thread and tried to learn from those more experienced than me. Spring 2012 was my most dedicated training to date and I experienced one of my biggest lows to greatest highs (even though rereading that race report I was downplaying it) in a matter of a couple weeks.
My favorite race ever is probably this 5K in 2015. 2015 is also when I finally broke 3:00 in the marathon.
Next best period was 2018 setting a bunch of PRs as most of you probably remember. I have my best successes every third year (2009-2012-2015-2018). No idea why.
Notable memories of other FBG successes/experiences
My favorite period in this thread was definitely the summer of 2015 when I first joined Strava, I started morning running and I started running 7 days a week for the first time. @pbm107, @Hang 10, @Ned and I were all training for fall marathons and all ran similar times. It was cool seeing what they would do every day and I picked up some of their habits. In fact, you may notice I run 6 easy miles a lot. I used to run just 5 but I noticed @pbm107 would run 6 and I didn’t want to fall behind a mile to him for the week. I’ve basically kept that habit ever since.
Anticipations for the 2020s
I turn 50 in the fall. Good news/bad news. Bad news is I’m old. Good news is age groups will be getting a lot easier. I remember us discussing a Yale study that showed older runners decline about 1% per year. However, I think I might have at least one more PR cycle left in me if I train well and stay (reasonably) healthy. Hopefully I can make up for the physical decline by having more wisdom and, perhaps, moxie.
I don’t always love or even like running but I dislike not running even more. I also like the competition and being unquestionably good at something so I’d like to keep going as long as I can.
Your decade of running+ and racing
To start the decade I had run a total of two races, both marathons. I got a 3:26 on the second one in October 2009 and was really pleased by that. I wasn’t active in the 10K thread but I lurked upon occasion.
I couldn’t beat that time for the next few years due to sporadic, haphazard training, bad weather and injuries.
In 2012 I started getting more active in the thread and tried to learn from those more experienced than me. Spring 2012 was my most dedicated training to date and I experienced one of my biggest lows to greatest highs (even though rereading that race report I was downplaying it) in a matter of a couple weeks.
My favorite race ever is probably this 5K in 2015. 2015 is also when I finally broke 3:00 in the marathon.
Next best period was 2018 setting a bunch of PRs as most of you probably remember. I have my best successes every third year (2009-2012-2015-2018). No idea why.
Notable memories of other FBG successes/experiences
My favorite period in this thread was definitely the summer of 2015 when I first joined Strava, I started morning running and I started running 7 days a week for the first time. @pbm107, @Hang 10, @Ned and I were all training for fall marathons and all ran similar times. It was cool seeing what they would do every day and I picked up some of their habits. In fact, you may notice I run 6 easy miles a lot. I used to run just 5 but I noticed @pbm107 would run 6 and I didn’t want to fall behind a mile to him for the week. I’ve basically kept that habit ever since.
Anticipations for the 2020s
I turn 50 in the fall. Good news/bad news. Bad news is I’m old. Good news is age groups will be getting a lot easier. I remember us discussing a Yale study that showed older runners decline about 1% per year. However, I think I might have at least one more PR cycle left in me if I train well and stay (reasonably) healthy. Hopefully I can make up for the physical decline by having more wisdom and, perhaps, moxie.
I don’t always love or even like running but I dislike not running even more. I also like the competition and being unquestionably good at something so I’d like to keep going as long as I can.
gianmarco
Footballguy
Odds that @The Iguana decade in review will be longer than anyone else's despite starting right before 2019?
ChiefD
Footballguy
I just can't commit right now. Here's the thing:
I simply don't enjoy running in heat and humidity, much less racing in it. And it showed in last years relay. Everyone was putting in these awesome performances, and I was the plodder that held the team back a bit. I really don't want to be that guy again, and right now I don't have the mental fortitude to train for it.
It's going to be hard enough getting through this half marathon cycle: I've had some rough months mentally behind the scenes here. Some I will allude to in my decade report. Some you guys know about. Suffice it to say a lot is bubbling up right now and each day is a grind.
So it's really a no for me right now.
Last edited by a moderator:
gianmarco
Footballguy
I'm sorry for all that and shouldn't have busted your balls like that. I completely get it and wish you didn't even need to write that out. I hope you'll at least consider writing a song for us, though.
Much love, GB.
Much love, GB.
And FWIW, I was even slower than you. Just saying....
Zasada
Footballguy
Sorry to hear about your rough months. That is reason enough to not join us, but please don't let the reasoning above drive the decision.
I will run as hard as I can, but have no expectations of competing for the podium. From what I have read, the real 'win' from last year's relay was the opportunity for all of you to get together and have some fun. It would be great to do the same again, and I really don't care if you walk your legs as long as we can have some fun doing it.
MAC_32
Footballguy
Juxtatarot
Footballguy
ChiefD
Footballguy
The Iguana
Footballguy
@gianmarco - I'm in. Just confirmed with the better half that I can make it fit in with the rest of our crazy schedule around then.
ChiefD
Footballguy
The Iguana
Footballguy
@ChiefD I will totally support whatever you do/don't do. But if the only reason you don't run is fear of being too slow, I will kick you in the ding ding. I got to watch you be a BMF in Carmel and you can run with us if you want. Totally respect whatever you decide but "too slow" is a ####ty reason not to run. Whoever shows up to run and or support will be welcome and appreciated, IMO.
The Iguana
Footballguy
Boogity, boogity, boogity... So stoked! This and will be signing up for the monumental just after midnight. Let's go racing! [/DarrellWalteip]
Juxtatarot
Footballguy
One of the funny things about reading old race reports is realizing how stupid you were at the time.
For example with the above: no it wasn’t the shoes, you idiot, it was because your calves were tight as #### and you never rolled them and hardly stretched them!
Juxtatarot
Footballguy
Does Monumental fill up early? I’m not sure I want to run a fall marathon but if I do I’d consider that one.
MAC_32
Footballguy
gruecd
Footballguy
The Iguana
Footballguy
No. But got an email and there is a special price for the first 1000 to sign up starting tonight at midnight. Also something special about signing up for the so called ultra I did this year - the HM at fort Ben in October and the monumental in November.
Osaurus
Footballguy
. Was looking at Rock and Roll HM in Vegas in November, but this HM could work.
Juxtatarot
Footballguy
gruecd
Footballguy
bushdocda
Footballguy
The Iguana
Footballguy
The Iguana
Footballguy
The Iguana
Footballguy
So, in some manner we are doing this thing, right? Found a 1BR place I can rent about 1.5 miles from the SIUE cross country course that I think I'll book. I'd imagine it would make a pretty good "base of operations" for staging stuff.
The Iguana
Footballguy
A Review of the Decade
Make fun all you want but I ran more than just this year, so ha!
Your Decade decade of running+ and racing
While my venture into really running started just over a year ago, my adventure of racing and being a giant yo-yo of fitness has been going on for much of my life. Just concentrating on this decade, back in the 2013, 14, 15 time frame I got into crossfit and dropped from about 245 pounds to about 203 before sliding back to around 215 for awhile. During that time, I ran a few 5Ks as well as a couple of 1/2 mile races as part of the "Indiana Sports Corporation Corporate Challenge" - Kind of bummed my company doesn't participate in this any more - it's kind of like "field day" from high school for companies. There's a number of track events as well as some "skill challenges" - football throw, basketball contest, golf shots, a tug of war. So, some of my accomplishments early in the decade:
2013 - Fast Flash 5k - 23:45. 2014 - ISC Corp Challenge 5K - 24:28. 2015 ISC CC 5K - 29:28
Also ran the 1/2 for the Corp Challenge in 13, 14 and 15 - fastest time was like 2:35 - in either 13 or 14, which was pretty cool, IMO. As you can see, by the time 2015 rolled around, I was falling off the wagon pretty hard. After that the wheels totally fell off until July of 2018.
On July 1, 2018, I was back up to about 235. I started changing things a little but not much until September when I decided I was going to run the HM in the Monumental in November. So, running in earnest started in September/October of 2018. With about 6 weeks to go from couch to HM I ran the Monumental HM in 2:10
x. With the help of this place, I was hooked on trying to see if I could do more.
Ran a couple other 5ks at the end of 2018 - 27:28 and 28:05 times.
2019, you guys are aware. I ran a 5k in May in 21:19, HM in October in 1:38:47 and the Monumental in November in 3:45:58.
Notable Memories of other FBG successes/experiences
Gonna leave this basically blank - it could mostly just be a repeat of what I posted for the year review. Only thing I will add is that I have gone back and read some older reports - usually based on something being bumped from someone or because of some reference someone has made that made me go search. One of these days I'm going to take some time to create a link to a bunch of these with notes so others can reference them as needed. There's some awesome reads in here and I'm sure there are many, many more I have never seen yet.
Life in General in the 2010s
It's been pretty good for me in general. Miss my 2 girls being little but fun to watch them grow into very special women. They have gone from pre-teens to 17 and 21. Had some pretty cool experiences with my wife and we are about to celebrate 25 years of marriage this summer. Overall the decade was good to me. Biggest downer was about the time I was in better shape (see crossfit below), I had a TIA (i.e. mini stroke) the Monday before Thanksgiving probably about 4 years ago (+/-). That pretty much sucked.
Other than that, from a health perspective, getting hooked on Crossfit for awhile gave me a taste of not living as the bump on a log I had become. I still like doing some of the workouts and/or using some of the concepts from there in my workouts - not really interested in doing it full time anymore but thankful for it giving me a taste for doing more weight work and just being active. But it's definitely been a roller coaster ride. From 245 down to 203 and then back up to 235+. I briefly made it down to 191ish this year but have slid back about 10 pounds over the holiday. Looking forward to going down to 180+/- over the next few months.
Anticipations for the 2020s
Hoping to keep this running thing going. Looking forward to trying some different stuff - long trail run in March, the relay in May, who knows what else. My wife and I have also started to do a little traveling sans kids. Looking forward to doing that more - by the end of the decade they will be completely grown and living their own life. Looking forward to seeing what life is like as empty nesters. Hoping to incorporate some travel and running together. Would be fun. We will see how it goes. Also looking forward to seeing how far I can push myself with this running thing.
Make fun all you want but I ran more than just this year, so ha!
Your Decade decade of running+ and racing
While my venture into really running started just over a year ago, my adventure of racing and being a giant yo-yo of fitness has been going on for much of my life. Just concentrating on this decade, back in the 2013, 14, 15 time frame I got into crossfit and dropped from about 245 pounds to about 203 before sliding back to around 215 for awhile. During that time, I ran a few 5Ks as well as a couple of 1/2 mile races as part of the "Indiana Sports Corporation Corporate Challenge" - Kind of bummed my company doesn't participate in this any more - it's kind of like "field day" from high school for companies. There's a number of track events as well as some "skill challenges" - football throw, basketball contest, golf shots, a tug of war. So, some of my accomplishments early in the decade:
2013 - Fast Flash 5k - 23:45. 2014 - ISC Corp Challenge 5K - 24:28. 2015 ISC CC 5K - 29:28
Also ran the 1/2 for the Corp Challenge in 13, 14 and 15 - fastest time was like 2:35 - in either 13 or 14, which was pretty cool, IMO. As you can see, by the time 2015 rolled around, I was falling off the wagon pretty hard. After that the wheels totally fell off until July of 2018.
On July 1, 2018, I was back up to about 235. I started changing things a little but not much until September when I decided I was going to run the HM in the Monumental in November. So, running in earnest started in September/October of 2018. With about 6 weeks to go from couch to HM I ran the Monumental HM in 2:10
x. With the help of this place, I was hooked on trying to see if I could do more. Ran a couple other 5ks at the end of 2018 - 27:28 and 28:05 times.
2019, you guys are aware. I ran a 5k in May in 21:19, HM in October in 1:38:47 and the Monumental in November in 3:45:58.
Notable Memories of other FBG successes/experiences
Gonna leave this basically blank - it could mostly just be a repeat of what I posted for the year review. Only thing I will add is that I have gone back and read some older reports - usually based on something being bumped from someone or because of some reference someone has made that made me go search. One of these days I'm going to take some time to create a link to a bunch of these with notes so others can reference them as needed. There's some awesome reads in here and I'm sure there are many, many more I have never seen yet.
Life in General in the 2010s
It's been pretty good for me in general. Miss my 2 girls being little but fun to watch them grow into very special women. They have gone from pre-teens to 17 and 21. Had some pretty cool experiences with my wife and we are about to celebrate 25 years of marriage this summer. Overall the decade was good to me. Biggest downer was about the time I was in better shape (see crossfit below), I had a TIA (i.e. mini stroke) the Monday before Thanksgiving probably about 4 years ago (+/-). That pretty much sucked.
Other than that, from a health perspective, getting hooked on Crossfit for awhile gave me a taste of not living as the bump on a log I had become. I still like doing some of the workouts and/or using some of the concepts from there in my workouts - not really interested in doing it full time anymore but thankful for it giving me a taste for doing more weight work and just being active. But it's definitely been a roller coaster ride. From 245 down to 203 and then back up to 235+. I briefly made it down to 191ish this year but have slid back about 10 pounds over the holiday. Looking forward to going down to 180+/- over the next few months.
Anticipations for the 2020s
Hoping to keep this running thing going. Looking forward to trying some different stuff - long trail run in March, the relay in May, who knows what else. My wife and I have also started to do a little traveling sans kids. Looking forward to doing that more - by the end of the decade they will be completely grown and living their own life. Looking forward to seeing what life is like as empty nesters. Hoping to incorporate some travel and running together. Would be fun. We will see how it goes. Also looking forward to seeing how far I can push myself with this running thing.
bushdocda
Footballguy
A Review of the Decade
Great another formatting assignment. Home from NYE dinner. Short decade of running but still long post.
Notable memories of other FBG successes/experiences
Love the retrospectives and the OGs and all have been so great. The classic links to posts and strava stuff are really appreciated. The archive is a treasure.
You all are like Obi Wan to me on runs and raceday, appearing in a vision almost. And I have a special affinity for the morning Stravacrew. Thanks for having me. I think I first showed up here in Jan 2017 but my memory and search are about the same. I am certain that I would be somewhere very different had I not posted something stupid that first day (and many days thereafter).
Life in general during the 2010s
Only 3 years of the decade with you all and about a year prior of me trying to get running to stick. I climbed out of a smoky bar hole from the ‘90s and ‘00s (Bane) into a kid haze of the early ‘10s. Back to back toddler experiences in 2010 and 2011 were tough for me and I was depressed and confused and forced my way through a P90x or something at night to start moving again. Work and grad school were now consuming me but I was pulled into a marathon relay team in 2015 by a couple friends for whom I will always be grateful. Competitive old man hoops wasn’t working anymore as I was tired of getting elbowed in the face, twisting an ankle and jamming a finger every game. Tennis was next and I loved competing vs strangers. But running was taking hold and I was getting banged up toes and ankles playing league tennis and missing runs. It hurt so bad to get off that couch, I won’t go back. Give me the hurt that feels like progress. 2016 was 400 miles and I found some guidance online with some higdon stuff. Found here and motivation was stoked - 1000, 1500 and 1900 miles in 2017/2018/2019 and I’m n my way and loving the journey.
Race history is funny. I ran a 50 something min 10k prior to the marathon relay just to get the nerves out so I didnt #### myself. Think I ran my backyard HM the following March 2016 in 2:15 or something. Then some local 10m and other stuff. My dad’s cancer diagnosis in 2017 motivated me to run Marine Corp for him in 2017 as a tribute to his service (he’s fine). Huge day for us and my 4:15 or something was not what that day was about. Those results gave me a basis to work from and I’ve dropped a lot of time of since but those early races are great memories.
Anticipations for the 2020s
Oooh man. I suck at long term goals but I want to make some but a decade is a long time. Sticking mainly to running, in no order....
I am going to stay the course with consistency, increasing training stress with balanced recovery and pushing on raceday. This is the way (Mandolorian).
I will BQ in the ‘20s and I do place enormous value on this largely bc I failed at sticking with athletic pursuits my whole life. It will be big.
I will peak as a runner time wise. Not having a high school or college runner version of me is cool in this way only. My nephews are getting into XC and I am so jealous and supportive. I’ll buy shoes and cheer like a MFr.
I want to hit a few majors in the ‘20s (Berlin/Chi/NY).
I want to take on some cool trails and destination vacations at least to enjoy the trail life I see folks living
I want to meet more of this crew at races.
I want to race hard.
I want to stay healthy.
I want to see if my kids, 8 & 9, take to running as youngsters.
I want to keep showing up with the morning crew. But I’m sleeping in tomorrow. See you Thursday.
Great another formatting assignment. Home from NYE dinner. Short decade of running but still long post.
Notable memories of other FBG successes/experiences
Love the retrospectives and the OGs and all have been so great. The classic links to posts and strava stuff are really appreciated. The archive is a treasure.
You all are like Obi Wan to me on runs and raceday, appearing in a vision almost. And I have a special affinity for the morning Stravacrew. Thanks for having me. I think I first showed up here in Jan 2017 but my memory and search are about the same. I am certain that I would be somewhere very different had I not posted something stupid that first day (and many days thereafter).
Life in general during the 2010s
Only 3 years of the decade with you all and about a year prior of me trying to get running to stick. I climbed out of a smoky bar hole from the ‘90s and ‘00s (Bane) into a kid haze of the early ‘10s. Back to back toddler experiences in 2010 and 2011 were tough for me and I was depressed and confused and forced my way through a P90x or something at night to start moving again. Work and grad school were now consuming me but I was pulled into a marathon relay team in 2015 by a couple friends for whom I will always be grateful. Competitive old man hoops wasn’t working anymore as I was tired of getting elbowed in the face, twisting an ankle and jamming a finger every game. Tennis was next and I loved competing vs strangers. But running was taking hold and I was getting banged up toes and ankles playing league tennis and missing runs. It hurt so bad to get off that couch, I won’t go back. Give me the hurt that feels like progress. 2016 was 400 miles and I found some guidance online with some higdon stuff. Found here and motivation was stoked - 1000, 1500 and 1900 miles in 2017/2018/2019 and I’m n my way and loving the journey.
Race history is funny. I ran a 50 something min 10k prior to the marathon relay just to get the nerves out so I didnt #### myself. Think I ran my backyard HM the following March 2016 in 2:15 or something. Then some local 10m and other stuff. My dad’s cancer diagnosis in 2017 motivated me to run Marine Corp for him in 2017 as a tribute to his service (he’s fine). Huge day for us and my 4:15 or something was not what that day was about. Those results gave me a basis to work from and I’ve dropped a lot of time of since but those early races are great memories.
Anticipations for the 2020s
Oooh man. I suck at long term goals but I want to make some but a decade is a long time. Sticking mainly to running, in no order....
I am going to stay the course with consistency, increasing training stress with balanced recovery and pushing on raceday. This is the way (Mandolorian).
I will BQ in the ‘20s and I do place enormous value on this largely bc I failed at sticking with athletic pursuits my whole life. It will be big.
I will peak as a runner time wise. Not having a high school or college runner version of me is cool in this way only. My nephews are getting into XC and I am so jealous and supportive. I’ll buy shoes and cheer like a MFr.
I want to hit a few majors in the ‘20s (Berlin/Chi/NY).
I want to take on some cool trails and destination vacations at least to enjoy the trail life I see folks living
I want to meet more of this crew at races.
I want to race hard.
I want to stay healthy.
I want to see if my kids, 8 & 9, take to running as youngsters.
I want to keep showing up with the morning crew. But I’m sleeping in tomorrow. See you Thursday.
-OZ-
Footballguy
Review of the Decade
Your decade of running+ and racing
Notable memories of other FBG successes/experiences
Good God this is difficult. Really, just watching y'all kick names, take ###, getting to know each other from afar, sharing each experience has been awesome. Every achievement is special in it's own way. The way everyone supports each other and strives for challenges is just special. For a bunch of guys, whom I've only met one, y'all have a special place with me.
Life in general during the 2010s
Wife and I were just talking about this. In 2010, we had gone from living on post at Fort Campbell to Charlottesville, in December we had #4. I was enjoying running the Riveria trail with friends in the LL.M course, we just found out we were moving to fort Bragg. While at Bragg I gave up endurance for a little while, deployed to Afghanistan, got heavy. Then the one and only Ironman (Maryland, truly a great experience - the first with no professionals). A couple more moves, a whole lot of running, trying to stay healthy, learning about MAF. Retiring from the Army, taking a new job as a civilian in the Army, getting settled in the best community I've ever lived in, getting involved here to the point where I can't imagine leaving. Importing #5 (adopting), learning a lot about being a parent this last year... It's been one hell of a ride.
Anticipations for the 2020s
For once, I think we'll actually be in this exact spot for the decade. And I love it. I'll get more involved in the community, I really want to get involved with the local tri club and maybe team RWB. This decade will see 4 kids graduate high school, and I might even retire for good. Or just transition to private practice.
When the kids are older I'll do another full Ironman, maybe an ultra. For now I'm enjoying a few triathlons, almost exclusively local. Maybe I'll want to do a destination race. The idea of a tri or races in New Zealand and Ireland has appeal. For now I really do like the local scene. No real desire to run Boston but maybe eventually. Would absolutely kill to do Barkley, which is fairly local. Today was the local 50k I failed at last year, I'd like to do that again (not fail). So much to do...
Your decade of running+ and racing
Notable memories of other FBG successes/experiences
Good God this is difficult. Really, just watching y'all kick names, take ###, getting to know each other from afar, sharing each experience has been awesome. Every achievement is special in it's own way. The way everyone supports each other and strives for challenges is just special. For a bunch of guys, whom I've only met one, y'all have a special place with me.
Life in general during the 2010s
Wife and I were just talking about this. In 2010, we had gone from living on post at Fort Campbell to Charlottesville, in December we had #4. I was enjoying running the Riveria trail with friends in the LL.M course, we just found out we were moving to fort Bragg. While at Bragg I gave up endurance for a little while, deployed to Afghanistan, got heavy. Then the one and only Ironman (Maryland, truly a great experience - the first with no professionals). A couple more moves, a whole lot of running, trying to stay healthy, learning about MAF. Retiring from the Army, taking a new job as a civilian in the Army, getting settled in the best community I've ever lived in, getting involved here to the point where I can't imagine leaving. Importing #5 (adopting), learning a lot about being a parent this last year... It's been one hell of a ride.
Anticipations for the 2020s
For once, I think we'll actually be in this exact spot for the decade. And I love it. I'll get more involved in the community, I really want to get involved with the local tri club and maybe team RWB. This decade will see 4 kids graduate high school, and I might even retire for good. Or just transition to private practice.
When the kids are older I'll do another full Ironman, maybe an ultra. For now I'm enjoying a few triathlons, almost exclusively local. Maybe I'll want to do a destination race. The idea of a tri or races in New Zealand and Ireland has appeal. For now I really do like the local scene. No real desire to run Boston but maybe eventually. Would absolutely kill to do Barkley, which is fairly local. Today was the local 50k I failed at last year, I'd like to do that again (not fail). So much to do...
-OZ-
Footballguy
Oh man, this was one of the races I regret not doing. My sister had invited me, a friend we grew up with (who our parents had tried to hook me up with) ran the full, and y'all were there.
I really need to see if I can do it next year. I mean, I have a place to stay. Maybe life won't be so nuts next year. Won't do the full but maybe pace / race my nephew...
tri-man 47
Footballguy
A Review of the Decade
Your decade of running+ and racing
After a successful, pre-internet running period, the prior decade had been more focused on an annual triathlon, building up to a few half-IMs. With some thoughts of a full Ironman, I figured I’d better do a marathon first to see how that would go. I did my first marathons in 2007, but it was really summer, 2009 and the Chicago R&R HM (with @gruecd, @wraith5, and @2Young2BBald) that launched a new focus on running. It’s been a good “run,” to say the least. Looking back (via Athlinks), the decade featured 26 golds, 10 silvers, and 11 bronzes, which includes placement in a couple of marathons and triathlons. I also picked up an age-adjusted first place plaque in my only ultra (50K). Add in some participation awards for HMs, marathons, relays, and tris, and the basement walls are getting crowded! But the marathons are the interesting story and trend. For my 12 marathons to date, if I extract the three Bostons and three clear bonks (two of those bookending the 3 marathons/40 days nuttiness), here’s the trend:
3:46:38 May, 2007 (Madison, WI)
3:41:30 Oct, 2009 (Grand Rapids, MI)
3:36:59 May, 2011 (Big Sur)
3:33:29 Sept, 2013 (Fox Valley/St. Charles, IL)
3:28:58 Jan, 2016 (Houston, TX)
3:28:27 Oct, 2019 (Washington, DC)
Through the decade, my training, knowledge (moxie), and confidence improved, and the times steadily came down. Even this fall's 5K, with moderate effort, was my best 5K in seven years. How low can they go (before age really does catch up to me)? I am aware I've had a few different injuries over the past five years, so I need to take care with my overall conditioning and health.
All in all, an enjoyable and gratifying decade of running experiences and races with tons of incredible memories!
Notable memories of other FBG successes/experiences
I’ve really enjoyed getting to meet and become friends with a number of guys from the thread. With our near-daily interaction, these relationships are truly meaningful. Over the years, I’ve met about two dozen of you goofballs! A goodly number comes from the relay races, particularly the Bourbon Chase some years back, a now-recurring Dances with Dirt in Michigan, and more recently, the St. Louis extravaganza. @gruecd was the first guy I met. I was worried that if I introduced myself to an internet guy using my nickname for ‘Richard,’ he might find that a bit weird, so I borrowed my son’s nickname, Wally, and that’s stuck in my running circles.
Beyond the relays, it’s been a joy to catch some runs and races with the guys around here ( @Juxtatarot, @Brony, and @gruecd), to support a couple of former FBGs during their first Ironman event in Sandusky several years back, to cheer on @mr furley in his first 5K, and particularly to support @SFBayDuck during his Western States race. That Western States event was so epic ...the cross-country chatter throughout the race and @BassNBrew accurately projecting the result. I also want to mention how much I enjoy seeing new participants in this thread as they listen and learn; train and race – and steadily improve their times as well as their health, in many cases. It’s been tough, though, to learn of the injuries that have sidelined @Hang 10, @Ned, and @Brony to various degrees.
Life in general during the 2010s
Early in the decade, I pursued an on-line doctorate degree (2011-2014), which allowed me in 2015 to transition to a full-time faculty position. The doctoral program was an incredible challenge, but I’m so glad I pursued it and positioned myself where I am today, doing what I most enjoy in academia and benefitting from the increased flexibility. Outside of work and running, my son got married in 2015 and we now have two fun grandsons (and the three year old loves chances to run with Papa). My wife retired a few years ago, but I’m in no hurry. With our flexible time, now, we have had some great travel in recent years (adding a few more countries to my running list and another ocean and sea to the swim list).
Anticipations for the 2020s
We’ll begin the 20’s with our daughter’s wedding in November, and we’ll spend time relishing time with the grandkids as they grow (more are expected at some point).
Running-wise, I’m strongly focused on Boston, 2021. Beyond that, I’m not sure ..other than to hopefully keep running strong and be ‘that guy’ in the age group. I expect to lay off marathons after 2021, and then ideally pick it up again in 2026. At some point, I anticipate catching some runs, and some races, with the grandkids, which will be a blast.
Your decade of running+ and racing
After a successful, pre-internet running period, the prior decade had been more focused on an annual triathlon, building up to a few half-IMs. With some thoughts of a full Ironman, I figured I’d better do a marathon first to see how that would go. I did my first marathons in 2007, but it was really summer, 2009 and the Chicago R&R HM (with @gruecd, @wraith5, and @2Young2BBald) that launched a new focus on running. It’s been a good “run,” to say the least. Looking back (via Athlinks), the decade featured 26 golds, 10 silvers, and 11 bronzes, which includes placement in a couple of marathons and triathlons. I also picked up an age-adjusted first place plaque in my only ultra (50K). Add in some participation awards for HMs, marathons, relays, and tris, and the basement walls are getting crowded! But the marathons are the interesting story and trend. For my 12 marathons to date, if I extract the three Bostons and three clear bonks (two of those bookending the 3 marathons/40 days nuttiness), here’s the trend:
3:46:38 May, 2007 (Madison, WI)
3:41:30 Oct, 2009 (Grand Rapids, MI)
3:36:59 May, 2011 (Big Sur)
3:33:29 Sept, 2013 (Fox Valley/St. Charles, IL)
3:28:58 Jan, 2016 (Houston, TX)
3:28:27 Oct, 2019 (Washington, DC)
Through the decade, my training, knowledge (moxie), and confidence improved, and the times steadily came down. Even this fall's 5K, with moderate effort, was my best 5K in seven years. How low can they go (before age really does catch up to me)? I am aware I've had a few different injuries over the past five years, so I need to take care with my overall conditioning and health.
All in all, an enjoyable and gratifying decade of running experiences and races with tons of incredible memories!
Notable memories of other FBG successes/experiences
I’ve really enjoyed getting to meet and become friends with a number of guys from the thread. With our near-daily interaction, these relationships are truly meaningful. Over the years, I’ve met about two dozen of you goofballs! A goodly number comes from the relay races, particularly the Bourbon Chase some years back, a now-recurring Dances with Dirt in Michigan, and more recently, the St. Louis extravaganza. @gruecd was the first guy I met. I was worried that if I introduced myself to an internet guy using my nickname for ‘Richard,’ he might find that a bit weird, so I borrowed my son’s nickname, Wally, and that’s stuck in my running circles.
Beyond the relays, it’s been a joy to catch some runs and races with the guys around here ( @Juxtatarot, @Brony, and @gruecd), to support a couple of former FBGs during their first Ironman event in Sandusky several years back, to cheer on @mr furley in his first 5K, and particularly to support @SFBayDuck during his Western States race. That Western States event was so epic ...the cross-country chatter throughout the race and @BassNBrew accurately projecting the result. I also want to mention how much I enjoy seeing new participants in this thread as they listen and learn; train and race – and steadily improve their times as well as their health, in many cases. It’s been tough, though, to learn of the injuries that have sidelined @Hang 10, @Ned, and @Brony to various degrees.
Life in general during the 2010s
Early in the decade, I pursued an on-line doctorate degree (2011-2014), which allowed me in 2015 to transition to a full-time faculty position. The doctoral program was an incredible challenge, but I’m so glad I pursued it and positioned myself where I am today, doing what I most enjoy in academia and benefitting from the increased flexibility. Outside of work and running, my son got married in 2015 and we now have two fun grandsons (and the three year old loves chances to run with Papa). My wife retired a few years ago, but I’m in no hurry. With our flexible time, now, we have had some great travel in recent years (adding a few more countries to my running list and another ocean and sea to the swim list).
Anticipations for the 2020s
We’ll begin the 20’s with our daughter’s wedding in November, and we’ll spend time relishing time with the grandkids as they grow (more are expected at some point).
Running-wise, I’m strongly focused on Boston, 2021. Beyond that, I’m not sure ..other than to hopefully keep running strong and be ‘that guy’ in the age group. I expect to lay off marathons after 2021, and then ideally pick it up again in 2026. At some point, I anticipate catching some runs, and some races, with the grandkids, which will be a blast.
The Iguana
Footballguy
Happy New Year!
Oh and I'm now registered for the Indython - Fort Ben HM on October 3rd, Monumental Marathon on November 7th. Let's Go!
Oh and I'm now registered for the Indython - Fort Ben HM on October 3rd, Monumental Marathon on November 7th. Let's Go!
JShare87
Footballguy
Zasada
Footballguy
No 10-year summary for me. I only got off the couch in 2017, starting with one weekly hike. On that day it took me 1h45m to get up Prairie Mountain (yes, a stupid hike to choose for my first).
Also, long-term goals don't stick for me. I need goals to be on the immediate horizon -- that carrot on the stick I'm always going for. So I'll just stick with my 2020 goals for now, and hopefully look forward to 2021 goals this time next year.
You guys are always welcome if you ever want to experience Calgary/Banff. The trails are awesome, and our summers can be very nice. 16-hour days in June. The wife and I have a 4-bedroom house for just the two of us, so plenty of space. UltraGuys might enjoy the Sinister 7, from what I hear it's an ###-kicker of a race! I hope to try it someday.
Also, long-term goals don't stick for me. I need goals to be on the immediate horizon -- that carrot on the stick I'm always going for. So I'll just stick with my 2020 goals for now, and hopefully look forward to 2021 goals this time next year.
You guys are always welcome if you ever want to experience Calgary/Banff. The trails are awesome, and our summers can be very nice. 16-hour days in June. The wife and I have a 4-bedroom house for just the two of us, so plenty of space. UltraGuys might enjoy the Sinister 7, from what I hear it's an ###-kicker of a race! I hope to try it someday.
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The Iguana
Footballguy
gruecd
Footballguy
May very well take you up on this sometime! A good friend of mine went to Banff a year or two ago, and she said it’s one of the most beautiful places she’s ever been.
Osaurus
Footballguy
gianmarco
Footballguy
In trying to map out at least a tentative 2020 race schedule, I have a question.
When would be the best/optimal time after a marathon (and its training) to attempt a HM PR? 1 month? 2 months? More?
I know you guys have said that either during or after marathon training, PRs have been accomplished.
In other words, the Monumental HM will be just over 3 months after J&J. Would we lose the benefit of that fitness by then without another cycle?
When would be the best/optimal time after a marathon (and its training) to attempt a HM PR? 1 month? 2 months? More?
I know you guys have said that either during or after marathon training, PRs have been accomplished.
In other words, the Monumental HM will be just over 3 months after J&J. Would we lose the benefit of that fitness by then without another cycle?
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The Iguana
Footballguy
I am not the expert you are looking for, nor did I stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night, but I'd imagine that as long as you don't completely fall off the wagon after the marathon that you would carry fitness and gains over but that means continuing to train/run well. Then probably going to want some continued focused training/min cycle leading to it.
I.e. All the work for the marathon will have you stronger and faster but 3 months is a long time.
I.e. All the work for the marathon will have you stronger and faster but 3 months is a long time.
Juxtatarot
Footballguy
I know that one gets that training boost from running a marathon but it's hard to know what might be best particularly after your very first one. Physically, it might take a long time to recover. Also, mentally, you'll probably be ready for a break.
For three months after, you'd have to take a short break and ramp training back up again. You could certainly be successful doing that if you wanted.
My half marathon successes have mostly been during marathon training about a month before the marathon.
