Ready, set, start training for Umstead
Last week was the signup event for the Umstead 100 Ultramarathon event for 2024. Another exciting sign-up as the event has limited spots available, and many runners like to use this event as their first 50, 100 events. As a great event to pursue the under 24 hours 100, it is also very attractive to many second and third-timers. Many third-timers returning to get close to the 500 mark, like me when I started a… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Recent knee issues
In our beautiful sport of running, things are not always going to go as perfectly as we want them to go. We will try new approaches and technology and make decisions on how to tackle things (workouts, events, races, etc.) versus the other alternatives. Sometimes, we push it close to the limits, and unfortunately, sometimes, we push it just a tad past the limit, which can start causing trouble. We are humans and make mistakes,… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Insane Contribution
Late last month, I had the privilege to write a short piece for another great blog, TRI Boken. TRI Boken is a blog for athletes who want to learn, grow, and seek adventure. The website is run by friends who in addition to love running, biking, and swimming, also thrive and seek adventure. In addition to sharing their knowledge, tips, and experiences, they also offer custom programs for training, supplements, and gear. The name TRI… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: What is going on with fueling?
As a runner, we all know that this sport of putting one step in front of the other brings challenges, some mental and some physical, especially for long-distance running. But the diabetic runner has additional variables and challenges to consider and deal with in addition to the already crazy sport. At the same time, the body is constantly using carbs (Glycogen), fat, and protein; the body normally regulates insulin secretion based on the consumption of… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Books and Running- copy
This morning I just went for a solo run. During those runs, I normally listen to music or podcasts or audiobooks to keep me entertained during the many hours I might be out there. If running on a treadmill, normally the go-to is a TV show or movie(s), depending on how long I need to run. When I listen to audiobooks, I tend to listen to Business, Development, Leadership, and Personal Development books; occasionally, I… continue reading.
Raleigh 13.1 It has been a long time
I do not remember when it was the last time I ran the Raliegh Spring 13.1 Half Marathon. But now I remember why I have not. For today’s event warm-up, I decided to do a 1-mile warm-up with Alex from InsaneRunning group. Easy run around the parking area, nothing too fast, just enough to lose the legs. Today was going to be a warm day; I warned Alex about the hills on the way back… continue reading.
Tar Heel Double Down Challenge- 2023
Today I completed my 2nd Tar Heel Double Down Challenge, The challenge includes the 4-miler before the main event, a 10-mile which is the featured race of the Tar Heel. Completing the challenge, of course, will get you the extra bling and bragging rights. After the usual early morning breakfast, I drove to the parking event area, which was located around 3/4 miles away. Sugars were not cooperating this time, hovering in the mid-200s. Runnable… continue reading.
2023 Umstead 100- Journey to 100
This past weekend I completed my 3rd 100 miles event at Umstead100. Many things went according to plan, and many previous lessons were applied to make this event an enjoyable one. But also, like everything in life, not all goes according to plan; there were many adjustments along the way as we had to adjust given what nature was providing us that day. I needed to shift goals along the way from switching Goal A… continue reading.
Journey to 100: Week 26/26 Race Week
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and training to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. This week is the 100 event, not much to do from a running perspective other than focus on recovery before the event. Assessment: Check… continue reading.
Journey to 100: Week 25/26 Final touches
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and training to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100, last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. Final training week. Very low mileage to let the body recover. Even the stretches and gym sessions are very light in intensity. Just to… continue reading.
2023 Cisco Holi Color Run
Today I completed my 1st Color run. I know, I know, how could I not have completed one? I have to admit that it was so much fun. Plenty of familiar faces, Udit, who finished his 1st Marathon over the weekend, joined us—Samuel, another veteran runner that I have not seen in a while, was there to join the festivities. Also, Alex was there after completing a fast half over the weekend. The venue, although… continue reading.
Journey to 100: Week 24/26 Tapering
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and training to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100, last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. This week the name of the game is tapering by reducing the mileage just a tad. Believe it or not, the reduction does not… continue reading.
2023 Tobacco Road Marathon
The Tobacco Road Marathon once again, I am coming back to my 1st Marathon event. It was a perfect day, perfect weather for running (At least for me, it was), and for others, maybe a little bit on the cold side at the start. I double up on short sleeve shirt and very light gloves; for others, a little bit more coverage. Similar to every time I have trained for Umstead 100, this will be… continue reading.
Journey to 100: Week 23/26
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and training to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. Congratulations, you have survived the highest total mileage week. You were coming from a training week that included 20 and 26-mile back-to-back long runs… continue reading.
Journey to 100: Week 22/26
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and training to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. We are now entering the final block training week. An initial week ramp-up mileage after a great recovery week, this in preparation for the… continue reading.
Journey to 100: Week 21/26
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and training to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. This week’s focus was on recovery. Assessment: Already you have been focusing on increasing your endurance and addressing the few issues that have come… continue reading.
Running Shorts: UltraPacer to smart pace planning
A few days ago, an ultrarunner and friend from the running community, Adrian Cooper, recommended that I check out the website UltraPacer via a video of him using the tool while he is planning for Umstead100, which he will be tackling with our InsaneRunning runners. Here are a few things about the tool and how I am also planning to use it to pacing plan for the upcoming event Umstead 100. Here is a post… continue reading.
Journey to 100: Week 20/26: Aid Stations
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and training to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. During the past few training runs at the location, we have been practicing stopping at or near the area where the aid stations will… continue reading.
Journey to 100: Week 19/26
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and training to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. This week is, in a nutshell, a lower mileage week after the plan adjustments in preparation for the next big mileage week coming this… continue reading.
Ghost Road Trail 8-mile event
For today’s event, for the first time, I was going to be the sweeper at the Ghost Road Trail Run event. The sweeper is the last person/runner in the event to come in, making sure other runners are safe and that they all make it to the finish line. Since I am still training for Umstead 100 and I needed to complete some additional miles. I arrived about 2 hours before the event to cover… continue reading.
Journey to 100: Week 18/26
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and training to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. By this time of the training, things are starting most likely to be clicking into place. There have been plenty of back-to-back long runs… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Smashrun to get running smart
A few months ago, a good friend of mine, you have probably heard of him in the Journey to 100-mile series runners profile, Jamie recommended that I check out the website/app Smarhrun. In a nutshell, Smashrun is a website/offering that, after linking and syncing to your Strava or Garmin Connect data, will help runners take a different look at the data, track and analyze their running activity. My first impressions were, WOW! Although it might… continue reading.
Journey to a 100: Week 17/26: Supporting team
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. Like many activities we tackle in the day-to-day, running is as complicated and tasking as life itself. Although at the time of… continue reading.
Journey to a 100: Week 16/26: 10 more weeks to showtime
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100, last week’s post, and additional ideas; follow the link. Training for a 100. Time flies when you are having fun. Let me rephrase that, “Time flies when you are having running fun.” We have totaled about… continue reading.
Journey to a 100: Week 15/26: Pacer Profile
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post , and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. It is pacer time!!!! This week I have the privilege to write and post a profile of a really good friend… continue reading.
Journey to a 100: Week 14/26: Pacer Profile
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post , and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. Alright, this week, we have Mister Jay Srinivasan, one of our voluntold pacer? LOL!!! It is great to have so many… continue reading.
Journey to100: Week 13/26 Strength Training
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I prepare, plan, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100, last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. It is the new year, and we are ready to get ready to succeed in our New Year’s Resolutions. Right? Yeah, yeah, every year you… continue reading.
2022 Running Summaries
Happy New Year!! 2022 was a great running year. So many miles logged, training miles, and great conversations during events and, most importantly, training runs. The InsaneRunning Wednesday group exploded this year with so many great runners. The Saturday run in the later part of the year became the main training run for the InsaneRunning training group tackling Umstead100 and some of the pacers. Here is the year in a nutshell, I am very blessed… continue reading.
Journey to 100: Week 12/26 – Happy Holidays
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I prepare, plan, and train to complete another 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100, last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. If you are following the progress and have looked at the overall plan, this and next week are the low mileage and solid low back-to-back… continue reading.
Journey to a 100: Week 11/26: Runner Profile
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100, last week’s post, and additional ideas; follow the link. Training for a 100. This week we feature another great accomplished runner, Jamie Thompson, who is part of our training group preparing for Umstead Ultra in April… continue reading.
Journey to 100: Week 10/26
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100 By this time of the training, things are starting most likely to be falling into place. There have been a few back-to-back… continue reading.
Journey to a 100: Week 9/26: Runner Profile
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Road to 100 last week’s post, and for additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. Runner Profile: This next 100 milers InsaneRunning training group participant is as well known as our previous runner that we profiled last… continue reading.
Durham 13.1 Happy Holidays
After completing Derby 50k, just last weekend. I was feeling great, still a little bit tired, but ready for this last event for this year. In the morning, I the usual latte with hot cereal and ate a banana about 35 minutes before the start. I like this event location since it is close to home and a very flat course at the American Tobacco Trail. There I met with a few friends from previous… continue reading.
Journey to a 100: Week 8/26: Runner’s Profile
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post and additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. As you probably know by now, we have a group of Insane Runners joining us for the insanity of training for 100 miles…. continue reading.
2022 Derby 50k
Coming back for more Derby 50k. Finishing Skinny Turkey on Thursday at an easy pace served as prep work for today. Even though I did not run yesterday and just did some stretching, my legs feel okay this morning. Derby was my first Ultramarathon, so it holds a big place in my running heart. Similar fuel preparations as last year for this event, bottles of energy drink ready with E-fuel and Tailwind mix, baby food… continue reading.
2022 Skinny Turkey Half
Happy Thanksgiving to all the runners out there Today was my eighth Skinny Turkey Half Marathon. This year I am volunteering as a 2:15 pacer. Taking it easy and not pushing the pace since I have Derby 50k on Saturday. This morning the usual latte with hot cereal and banana for later. The event location is at a High School, and it has plenty of bathrooms and areas to stretch, sit down and relax. There… continue reading.
Journey to 100: Week 7/26
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and training to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Journey to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. We are a third of the way there, just 19 more weeks to showtime. This is the perfect time to do a quick assessment… continue reading.
Journey to a 100: Week 6/26 Thinking about the mileage
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post and additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. If you have been following the weekly plan and updates by now, you probably just realize that there will be not only lots… continue reading.
Journey to a 100: Week 5/26 Fueling plan hone your strategy
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post and additional ideas; follow the link. Training for a 100. As mentioned before, fueling is very important. Now that you worked out a list of a few possible food items a few weeks… continue reading.
2022 City of Oaks Marathon
For the morning routine, the same as in plenty of other events, hot cereal with almond butter, coffee, water, and a banana about 35-45 minutes before the start of the event. Including a warm-up job of about 1 mile to the start line. It was so great to see so many friends at the start. Some were about to tackle the full, others the half, and a few the 10k. We chatted for a bit… continue reading.
Journey to a 100: Week 4/26 Chafing
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Road to 100 last week’s post and additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. Running long distances can be tasking to the body in multiple ways. Testing you in many forms, from fuel depletion, muscle soreness, lack… continue reading.
Journey to a 100: Week 3/26 Fueling plan strategy
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post and additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. For multi-hour events, fueling is not just very important but the key to the success of finishing an Ultramarathon event. Even in a… continue reading.
2021 RootRock Trail Half Marathon
I decided to run this event again since last year I had so much fun with its challenging course and great runners, plus last year finished 3rd place in my age group. Can I repeat? The InsaneRunning runner that ran it last year is not going to be able to attend this time. Similar to last year, I was coming from finishing the Bull City Half last weekend but this year also running a… continue reading.
2022 Cisco 5k Back to in person event
I know, I know, I said it already in the past; yes, every year, I have mentioned that the Cisco 5k was my 1st official running event. Also, it was the official event that hooked me into running, eventually marking the beginning of an exciting road toward ultra-running events. This year, after cancellations and switching virtual events due to COVID restrictions and concerns, Cisco and the Cisco Life Connection team decided to hold the event… continue reading.
2022 Bull City Race Fest Half Marathon
Second time running The Bull City Race Fest Half Marathon. No big plans for the event as the group of Insane Running started to train for our event in April. For the morning routine, the usual hot cereal, coffee, some water, and this time no banana as sugars were feeling good this morning. After an easy 1-mile jog, that includes a couple of easy speed-ups at the end to give the legs a chance… continue reading.
Journey to a 100: Week 2/26 Adjustments
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series, here is Journey to 100 last week’s post and additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. Alright, we already started our plan; one week down, and here we are in the second week. Like any good initial plan, there… continue reading.
Journey to a 100: Week 1/26 Assessment and Planning
This is part of a series of posts regarding how the InaseRunning group prepares, plans, and trains to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Journey to a 100. For all the ultrarunning series and additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. You have decided to consider tackling an Ultra event. You might be a veteran, new to Ultra, or even recently started running. Don’t be afraid you are about to go on… continue reading.
Mid Level 100 Mile Event Plan
Looking for a 100-mile Ultramarathon training plan to use as a baseline? Look no further, below you can find a basic, intermediate plan to achieve completion of your 1st 100-mile event. This program assumes that you have at least completed a marathon or multiple half marathons and feel comfortable with those distances. You will expect to start the weekly mileage around 40 miles per week and slowly ramp up to a peak week of 75… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Books and Running
This morning I just went for a long run. Normally I run with a group that keeps the conversation going, but today I went solo. During those runs, I normally listen to music or podcasts to keep me entertained during the many hours I might be out there. If running on a treadmill, normally the go-to is a TV show or movie(s), depending on how long I need to run. But today, I listened to… continue reading.
What did we just do?
I think the insanity has spread all over the town. Today was the signup event for the Umstead 100 Ultramarathon event. It is pretty exciting as the event has limited spots available, and many runners like to use this event as their first 50, 100 events. Like it was for me back in 2019. Their signing process works by releasing small blocks on running spots every so often and goes something like this. On the… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: 10 initial things to consider with to T1D and running
I am a Type 1 diabetic runner, which means that I am insulin-dependent diabetes which I receive in specific doses using an insulin pump. I am not a doctor or in any medical field. What I am sharing is based on personal growth, learning, and experience. The intention of this post is not going to cover what diabetes is or the difference between the types and other general stuff here. In addition to your doctor… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Couch to 100, is it possible?
This is part of a series of posts regarding how to prepare, plan, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon. For all the ultrarunning series and additional ideas, follow the link. Training for a 100. When I started to train for Ultrarunning events, specifically the 100-mile event, it was hard to find a decent plan to follow. There was a multitude of plans for 5k, 10k, Half, and Full marathons. There are some additional… continue reading.
Running Short: Running shoe mileage (part 2)
I have been running for a little while now, which means I have been logging my miles in a log and tracking the mileage for the running shoes I am using. Hopefully, you are too. Earlier I posted about logging the miles and when to replace the running shoes. I usually have about 3 to 4 running shoes in rotation, with an additional one that I use for nonrunning activities. Yes, that last pair of… continue reading.
Running Experiences: Butterfly running
Once in a while when you are in the middle of a run, especially during a long run, you space out, and the running turn into a smooth automatic movement that can last for a long time. But sometimes you start to pay attention and notice things around you. Many times during the year I run at one of my favorite trails, the American Tobacco Trail. And sometimes you get to see many different animals… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Running shoe mileage (part 1)
Alright, let’s start by saying the obvious, I do not run 100 plus miles a week, but I do run often enough so I would put 40-50 miles per week on average. A few months ago in one of the forums I normally stop by, there were a few questions about running shoes and how to go about getting a good pair, the investment, and the value you get out of a running shoe. After I… continue reading.
Running Shorts: RunningPoet Podcast
Last week I had the privilege to be a guest at the PoetRunner radio podcast. It was a fantastic and unique experience for me. I have to say, that I do not envy all the people that do live radio/podcasts. One thing is just talking with others about running, or during a group run, but having it broadcast live and recorded and then posted for posterity is a different story. The PoetRunner podcast combines guests… continue reading.
Running Shorts: VO2Max or VO2Peak
Last year in May I was fortunate to be part of a Health UNC Study about diabetes and exercise. They were looking for volunteers to take on a multi-week test in which they were going to take different body and health measurements, analyses, and data during a series of specific exercises. The first thing they asked me to do was to come in for a baseline and overall test during the 1st week. I was… continue reading.
Finally the Tarheel 10-miler, plus Double Down challenge
Today I completed my 1st Tarheel 10 miler, including the 4-miler before the main event to complete the Double Down Challenge for the extra bling. After the usual early morning breakfast, I drove to the parking event area which was located around 3/4 miles away. The weather was great and taking advantage of the distance from the starting area I did an easy 1-mile warm-up. I was surprised to have fresh legs this morning and… continue reading.
Tackling another 100 miles Ultra: Umstead 100
Yesterday morning I completed my 2nd 100 miles event. Once again, an amazing experience it was to tackle the 100 for the second time. Although not everything went according to plan, all the training, the hours, and paying attention to the minor details paid off in big time. I was able to shift to the target goal quickly and come in very close but ahead of my B goal of finishing in under 24 hours,… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Race Week
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. Final days until your event. It is time to rest and go over your plans. By now all should be in place, all the… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 16/16 Final touches & Pacers
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. Final training week. Very low mileage to let the body recover. Event the stretches session are very light in intensity. Just to get the… continue reading.
2022 Tobacco Road Marathon
Today, was the Tobacco Road Marathon after cancellation and a year of the delayed event due to the COVID restrictions. It was a perfect day, perfect weather, and a perfect venue for an event. Like the first year, I participated at Umstead 100, this will be my last long run in preparation for the event. Last year the organizers divided the event into two days, Saturday the full and Sunday the half. That provided me… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 15/16 Tapering
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. I continued with tapering by reducing the mileage just a tad. Believe it or not, the reduction does not mean sitting on the couch… continue reading.
Running Shorts: The NTC app a companion
Early this year I decided to add other types of workouts to my training regimen. Including a little bit more strength training. Looking for options to make it easy for me to learn and add different approaches and types of exercises and workouts I took some time to try and use the NTC (Nike Training Club) app. This app is basically a companion app to the NRC (Nike Running Club) providing users with non-running workouts… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 14/16
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. Although it might feel like a long taper, 3 weeks, I am still putting some good mileage to keep the body moving and starting… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 13/16 Peak Mileage
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. This is the main training week event. If things do not well, you might still be able to try again next week, but you… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 12/16 Recovery week
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. This week is the last recovery week and the prep work for the peak week. The main focus is to start gaining on getting… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 11/16
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. If you are following the progress and have looked at the overall plan, this week is one of those weeks to add mileage to… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 10/16
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. By this time things are most likely falling in place. There have been a few long runs that have provided you with good practice…. continue reading.
Running Shorts: Half Plan from the NRC app
Last year after bouncing from almost race less 2020 I decided to take the time opportunity and tried the Half Marathon plan from the NRC (Nike Running Club) app. I have used the NRC app in the past for individual runs. The app provides the runners with tailored timed runs in which a coach or running voice partner will provide stories, information, tips, ideas, or word of encouragement. In addition to those single runs, they… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 9/16 Strength Training
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. The previous week I had the opportunity to join the great people of Bull City Running Co. at one of their workshops for runners…. continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 8/16 Halfway there
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and training to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. We are halfway there, just 8 more weeks to showtime. This is the perfect time to do an assessment around the progress, relative to… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 7/16
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and training to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. By now we are near the key training weeks. Back to back solid double digits that are going to start putting a test on… continue reading.
Running Shorts: The mobile running app from the makers of the DownDog app
I love to try different mobile fitness running apps and other tools that can help me move out from the monotony of running or learn new ways to tackle health, workouts, and learn concepts about running. Late last year I had the opportunity to try out a new running app, Running. From the makers of DownDog yoga App, one of my favorite Yoga Mobile Apps. Since I have used the Yoga app and the other… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 6/16
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. If you have been following the weekly plan and updates by now you probably just realize that there is going to be not only… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 5/16 Honing some of the fuel intake
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. As mentioned before fueling is very important. Now that you have worked out a list of a few food possible items a few weeks… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 4/16 Chafing
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. Running long distances can be tasking to the body in multiple ways. One of these ways comes in the form of chafing. You might… continue reading.
2021 Running Summaries
2021 What a great year, when I do the math it turns out that is the year of 5. 2+2+1=5, and if you take the 0 out and move it to the right it is 50 Â Here is the year in a nutshell, Multiple events in the year, compare to just one last year Fortunate to be able complete another injure free year Completed once in a century opportunity (Well maybe not in a century)… continue reading.
Running Short: Preparing for a running season
The new year is upon us and there are always new plans, resolutions, dreams, ideas, and goals. Here are a few things to consider given the new year or if you are soon getting ready to plan a new running season. A 3-point approach to get your wellness vision off to a good start for the coming year/season: Step 1: Think about not only the upcoming events but your long-term vision/identity. Commit and write it… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 3/16 Fueling plan strategy
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. For multi-hour events, fueling is not just very important but the key to the success of finishing an Ultramarathon event. Even in a marathon… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 2/16 Feeling the effort
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series here is Road to 100 last week’s post and for additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. Alright, we already started our plan, one week down, and here is the second week. Like any good initial plan, there are going to… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: Road to 100: Week 1/16 Assessment and Planning
This is part of a series of posts regarding how I am preparing, planning, and train to complete the 100 miles Ultramarathon Umstead 100: Road to 100. For all the ultrarunning series and additional ideas follow the link. Training for a 100. You have decided to consider tackling an Ultra event. You might be a veteran, new to Ultra, or even recently started running. Don’t be afraid you are about to get ready and the… continue reading.
Durham 13.1 Happy Holidays
Insane Running here wishing you a Merry Christmas! and Happy New Year! After completing Derby 50k, I was feeling great a little bit tired but ready for this my last event for this year. A couple of years ago I pace the 2:30 group, but this year I took advantage of a BibPass offer that allowed me to enroll in multiple events for a monthly fee. In the morning the usual latte with hot cereal… continue reading.
Fifth Derby 50k
This year was my 5th year running the Derby 50k event. COVID is still in people’s minds but this year there have been many other events. I am coming from Skinny Turkey on Thursday. Even though I did not run yesterday, my legs are feeling just ok. This year I am back with the hopes to complete the event with a decent performance and be able to say that I am a 5-time finisher of… continue reading.
2021 Skinny Turkey Half
Happy Thanksgiving I completed my seventh Skinny Turkey Half Marathon. This year I am running as a final prep run for the Derby 50k on Saturday. For my sugars, the levels of my CGMS we not that good this morning. The CGMS was not providing an accurate reading as the calibration check I did earlier in the morning was way higher than the reading I was getting from the CGMS. But since this was going… continue reading.
2021 Cisco 5k virtual this time
So as I have mentioned almost every single year the Cisco 5k was my 1st official running event. Also, it was the event that hook me into running eventually marking the beginning for me to work my way up to graduating into ultra running. This month due to the current COVID Cisco Life Connection team decided to hold the event virtually instead of canceling. Like they did last year. This mid-November I set out to… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: Taping the CGMS sensor
Just recently I was asked about how do I keep my CGMS sensor from getting undone during my long sweaty runs. The CGMS is a subcutaneous sensor that connects to a transmitter that conveys information for a device, insulin pump, or phones your glucose level readings. This happens about every 5 minutes or so. This can be very helpful especially on long training session, hard workouts, and events. You see, as you probably know by… continue reading.
2021 City of Oaks Marathon
 For morning routine the same as in plenty of other events, hot cereal with almond butter, coffee, water, and a banana about 35-45 minutes prior to the start of the event. Including a warm-up walk of about 3/4 miles to the start line. I knew this was not going to be easy, my last 20+ mile training run was a few weeks ago, and in between, I have participated in a couple of half marathon… continue reading.
2021 RootRock Trail Half Marathon
I decided to run this event when one of the runners from the InsaneRunning group mentioned that had signed up for the 5k. It is my 50th official timed Half Marathon. I was coming from finishing the Bull City Half last weekend, I decided to give it a try since it was the 1st time for this event and a single-track trail race. The last time I did a single-track trail was many years… continue reading.
2021 Bull City Half Marathon
Today I completed The Bull City Food Fest Half Marathon. Although my whole intention was to run an easy race today, the weather was so perfect that I started to push the pace and while keeping g an eye on my heart race. I have to admit that it was so much fun to run today, even after running 14 miles at Umstead. For morning routine the same as in plenty of other events,… continue reading.
2021 Tobacco Road Half Marathon The Caboose Challenge
Yesterday I completed the Tobacco Road Marathon and today the Tobacco Road Half Marathon. This is to complete what I call “The Caboose Challenge” It was a perfect day, with perfect weather, great sugars, and a perfect venue for a back to back events. This year the organizers divided the Tobacco Road Marathon event into two days, Saturday was the Full, and today Sunday was the Half. That way they were able to reduce the… continue reading.
2021 Tobacco Road Marathon
Today, Tobacco Road Marathon restarted after a year and a couple of months of delays due to the COVID restrictions. It was a perfect day, perfect weather, and a perfect venue for an event. Last year I was ready when the decision was made to delay, I was going to use this event to prepare for the Umstead 100 but this year the event is happening after the Ultra event. So my legs are not… continue reading.
Running Shorts: To my past runner self
Hey Insane Runner, Yes, I know, it sounds crazy but yes, it is me from the future. I am writing to you to make sure you understand a few things that might not be clear to you at the time you receive this letter. First, a huge thank you for taking those first steps to be healthier and perform better not only with the sport of running but to make the choice for better living…. continue reading.
50 miles on my 50th year? Why not?
Saturday I completed my 1st official 50 miles race. (I know, I did Umstead 100 couple years ago, but I did not have an official 50M) I was supposed to run this event last year, but due to COVID, the event was canceled, and I deferred this year. What a fantastic experience it was. I followed a similar plan as I did training for the 100, lots of back-to-back long runs but adjusting for distance… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: How I fuel for it
This is part of a series of posts regarding how did I trained and successfully completed a 100 miles Ultramarathon in under 24 hours. Training for a 100. Today I would like to talk to you about fuel, how I fueled for my event, and the reasoning for my strategy. Given that, for an individual with diabetes, there might be a few additional details that you might consider given that glucose levels are going to… continue reading.
Running Shorts: I do not feel like running
I have been very fortunate that I get to talk to many individuals as part of my job. In one of those conversations, I was talking to Ben about running, training, and the different distances. Also a runner, Ben was starting to get back into the routine of finding time to run and being active. This was not the first time we talked about running, he always posts great questions and since I love to… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Thoughts that are getting in your running way
It does not have to be only times like perhaps we are living today with current health, social and environmental situations. It does not have to be like 2020, or another period of time that things looked like things are not going to get better. Sometimes the way and the things are, control the thoughts pre-, during, and post- runs we have that sometimes prevents us to take care of ourselves. We all care about… continue reading.
Running Shorts: COVID, what is that?
A friend of mine posted something in a business social media forum that quickly caught my eye. I am leveraging most of the content of his post but with some running twist. He was using COVID rethink and as an acronym to focus the energy for the rest of the year. Thank you Lenz for allowing me to leverage it and share it with others. C is for Crisis Management – Look at it as… continue reading.
2020 Running Summaries Crazy 2020
The year 2020 is finally over, thank God. It was definitely a year that will be hard to forget. From pandemic, communities split into opposing groups, people common sense being a question being asked all the time, working from home, and many other factors that will provide years and years of juicy content for movies, books, and shows. Tons of crazy things, but also many many miles to reflect and strategize how to go about… continue reading.
Derby 50k first event of 2020
What a year 2020 has been. With COVID ramping up for the most part of the year all but a few events were canceled. The big events were all canceled and some running areas and parks were also closed down due to the virus to prevent the spread of the virus. Mentally I am ok with the decision, there was so much unknown so much changing the mind on how to address the spread. So… continue reading.
Running Shorts: How 1 to 10 can help
So at least once in your life, you have heard something like “On a scale from 1 to 10, how do you feel about…” Or got an electronic survey that goes on a scale from less likely to most likely, 5 bubble selection. I have and there plenty of them. But recently I was listening to a podcast that talked about using a scale as a tool to improve your business, at home, and at… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Running into the future
Mile 1, mile 2, mile 3, … Here we are, counting the miles, keeping track in our journals, charts, tables, and online tracking systems. We do have a tendency to spend a lot of time looking at the past, looking at the numbers, searching for those golden nuggets, and a glimpse of the greatness that will get you moving to the next level of performance. We take notice of the current present, how do we… continue reading.
Running Shorts: The things we think that are not helpful
We all have them, good days, ok days, bad days, and sometimes really bad ones. As we set out to do our workouts whether they are 10 min or multi hours sessions we often start thinking about our lives and current state of performance. Recognizing that when we are feeling good and things are going our way, our training and racing performance gets a push that allows us to achieve goals and reach new levels… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Running related Video channels I like to follow
I love to learn, listen and watch about running stories, reports, ways to improve, and inspiring anecdotes. One of my favorites media is short videos. Like many, while I am working, blogging, sometimes I have some noise music, talk, or sounds in the background. I find it very difficult to work with too much silence. More often than not I have videos playing in a different screen or in the background to listen and something… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Testing the Torch mobile running app
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] I love to try mobile fitness running apps and other tools that can help me move out from the monotony of running or learn new ways to tackle health, workouts, and learn concepts about running. Late last year I had the opportunity to try out a new running game app, Torch: Running Game. The LifeBEAM makers of Vi, one of my favorite Mobile Apps and… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: It is all about the details
Running 100 miles takes a lot of you, physically and especially mentally. While doing your research about it, you read a lot about that after the first 55-60 miles (100K) is when the true race begins. That is mostly because your body already is past that limit, hovering between the line of mayor breakdown versus having the ability to continue to put one step in front of the other at a desired/targeted cadence. You have… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Testing Peloton mobile app
I am always on the look for apps, videos, blogs, and resources to try, research and learn from. Back in December, I had the opportunity to try out the Peloton digital app for a month. I have seen the bike and the treadmill at a Peloton store in the past at a shopping mall near my house. I know several people swear by it and their training programs. Their vast Live or recorded classes and… continue reading.
2019 Running Summaries
The year 2019 is about to be over. This morning I went out for a fast 7 mile run with some good friends one last time this year. After reflecting on the year, I am very happy with this year’s performance. Couple big PR’s this year, another 50k PR at the Derby 50k were I was able to improve once again my 50K mark for over 20 minutes compared to the previous year’s PR. But… continue reading.
One more event please, pacing the Durham 13.1 Happy Holidays
Wishing you a Merry Christmas! and Happy New Year! After completing Derby 50k, I was feeling great and did not have any other event until 2020. On Tuesday I received an email that they needed pacers for the Durham 13.1 event. I quickly responded that I could help with the 2:30 pacer group. In the morning the usual latte with hot cereal and banana. The event coordinators changed the location closer to my house which… continue reading.
Derby 50k one more PR for 2019
Last year I did Derby 50k and was able to run a 50k PR. This year I am back with the hopes that even though training has not been the best that I am able to better my performance at Uwharrie 50k and perhaps best last year Derby. After a successful pacing Coty of Oaks 5:00 Marathon, I knew that this event was going to be challenging to run a PR. If I want it to improve… continue reading.
Pacing the Skinny Turkey Half
Hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving I completed my sixth Skinny Turkey Half Marathon. This year I am running the event as a pacer for 2:15 group. Sugars were behaving pretty well that morning. I have been eating pretty healthy for the nights before training runs. In the morning the usual latte with hot cereal and banana. I like this event location, it has plenty of bathrooms and areas to stretch, sit down and relax. There… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: It is part a mental game
A few months ago I completed my 3rd Ultra and 1st 100 Miler, Umstead 100 and I had a blast. But one of the main things that made it a great experience was mental preparation. Although I had a blast, not everything went according to plan. But it is going to be the way you tackle the different situations when they arise, the good, the bad and sometimes the ugly that will make the difference… continue reading.
2019 City Of Oaks unforgettable pacing the 5:00
This was an amazing marathon experience. This year like two years ago, the Expo was a little bit disappointing. In 2017 the venue was huge, but no many vendors, this year smaller venue and felt even fewer vendors. Never the less it was well organized and it was great to talk to other runners and see familiar faces. Since I was pacing the 5:00 group this year, I spend a little extra time to allow… continue reading.
2019 Cisco 5k with InsaneRunning friends
Back in May, we started a running group at work to start training targeting the 2019 Cisco 5k event. We all had different goals and ideas of what we want to accomplish, but one common goal was to complete the 5k event. For me, it has been a tradition to run this event, since back a few years it was my 1st official running event. Last year, unfortunately, I had to miss the run due… continue reading.
Goldrush 50k an Ultra-culinary experience
So, this was my 3rd 50k and coming from finishing my 1st 100 miler race earlier this year I was feeling confident about being able to complete this event. The Goldrush 50k held at Uwharrie National park area with an un-relented course of constant ups and downs, mixed in with rocks, roots, creek crossings, loose rocks and very minimal flat sections that will make you reconsider your choices for adventure. With names like Sasquash Hill,… continue reading.
Training for 100 miles: One, Two and Three of a 100
I have to admit that when I signed up for my 1st 100 miles event I paused in disbelief of what I just did. Insanity at its best. But after the shock of the recent commitment, I went to hone on a plan to tackle that task on hand. These were the main steps I took to increase the chances of a great 1st 100 miler. 1st – Research, research, research and then research some… continue reading.
Surprise Virtual Minions 5k
Earlier this month I got my daughter to run 3.1 miles (5k) with me. But there was more to the run than just getting her out of the door for a run. She loves Minions since she first watched the Despicable Me and even more after the Minions movies. Earlier I saw a post from Universal about a 5k event at the Orlando Park, a Minion Theme 5k. I showed the post to my daughter… continue reading.
World’s Largest Flip Flop 1k with Family
Today I had the fortune to be able to run with my wife, mom, and uncle, what it could possibly be the World’s Largest Flip Flop 1k event. It was a lot of fun, the main requirement was to cover the distance on Flip Flops. My Mom and Uncle were visiting from Puerto Rico and after taking them to Umstead Park for a 2-mile hike and a UNC Botanical Garden excursion earlier in the week… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Picking up running, feeling your foot and lean
This past week we had a great outing with a group of enthusiastic individuals for a quick weekly run. During the run, we talked about running, health and their purpose and reasons to start running. This week we concentrated the conversation about feeling your weight on your foot. By having an awareness of how does it feels when you land your foot on the ground it will help with understanding your running form. There is… continue reading.
Racing? Pacing? again at Umstead
Last year I had the opportunity to volunteer and pace the 2:10 group. I got a little bit crazy again and even after running 8 loops of the same route last month I volunteered again to pace. I had so much fun pacing the last year that I want it to perhaps help again. I am comfortably able to run the 2:10 group, but since it was going to be warm I decided to go… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Picking up running, initial thoughts
Yesterday was great to go out with a group of enthusiastic individuals for a quick run. It was the first of hopefully many runs with the group. During the run, we talked a bit about the purpose and reasons to start picking running as an activity. One point that was great to discuss were areas to focus as we try to address those goals. After some thoughts, learning opportunities and crazy ideas, in my opinion,… continue reading.
My 1st 100 miles Ultra – Umstead 100
Yesterday morning I completed my 1st 100 miles race. What an amazing experience it was. All the training, paying attention to the minor details paid off in big time. I was able to come in well under my number one goal of finishing in under 24 hours, with a finish time of 22:36:52. The weather was great for most of the day and the event, coordinator, volunteers, crew and my pacers were outstanding. I could… continue reading.
2019 Tobacco Road Marathon as a prep training run for an Ultra
[vc_row no_margin=”true” padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” border=”none”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Yesterday, I completed the 2019 Tobacco Road Marathon. It was a perfect day, perfect weather and a perfect venue for an event. Last year I was able to volunteer to pace the 4:20 group. This year I tried for a slower pace spot, but it was taken, so I did my own thing. Since I was preparing for my 1st big Ultramarathon, the Umstead 100,… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Audio during my runs
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] I often use Audio during my runs, whether is a training run or even an event. There are different camps about using audio files, especially for the event, which for some it might provide some advantage, especially in longer events and should not be used. I am not writing this to debate the issue, as an audio user, I just want to share, what audio… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: Initial thoughts about Running and Diabetes
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output]I am Type 1 diabetic runner, this means that I am insulin dependent which I receive in specific doses via an insulin pump. I am not going to cover what diabetes is or the difference between the types and other general stuff here. There are plenty of places with really good information available, you can take a look in sites like The American Diabetes Association, JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation), WebMD,… continue reading.
2018 Running Summaries
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] 2018 is about to be over. Another and slow year goes by, but still I am very happy with the year performance. With only one PR this year, the Derby 50k, I was able to improve my 50K mark for over 20 minutes compared to last year. I was able to volunteer and pace two events this year the Tobacco Road Marathon and the Umstead Half, both of them really… continue reading.
Running Shorts: You know, they know, you are a runner
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output]  Want it to drop a note and wish everyone a Happy Holiday Season. Today, the day after Christmas, I had an a ha! moment. When I looked at all the gifts I was fortunate to receive this year, they were mostly running gear. Have I talked to my family about running during the past year? Have they seen me posting about my runs? Have… continue reading.
Dabbling with my second Ultra-Marathon Derby 50k
[vc_row no_margin=”true” padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” border=”none”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Last year I did my 1st ultra at the Derby 50k and this year I am back to complete my second one official one. After a somewhat successful NYC Marathon three weeks ago, I knew that this event was going to be a challenging run if I want it to improve my time based on the performance. Like always, getting good fuel the days prior… continue reading.
2018 New York City Marathon what an experience
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] I spend some of my summers with family in NYC. I have fond memories about those times and the family. I was so impressed with the architecture, the tall building, and bridges. One bridge, in particular, was the Verrazano Narrows bridge. The impressive bridge that connects State Island with Brooklin. When I saw the iconic pictures of the marathon, especially of the runners on the bridge, I knew… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: The Guardian versus the Enlite sensors: Test #2
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] Alright, here is the second part of my sensor experiment. You can find the first part of the test here. For this second test, I decided to record some additional information regarding the calibrations as well as, like the previous post, taking more pictures of the trends. One thing to point out is that for this second try you will notice some pink dots below the… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: Tip #001: Learn from a Low
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] Today during my long run, it got me thinking about some tips that might be helpful to some diabetic runner and non-runners. Here is the beginning of a series of quick tips about Running and Diabetes. Tip #001: Learn from a Low It can be scary, during a low episode and you most likely need to take care of it fast. When dealing with a… continue reading.
Running Shorts: You signed up for what?
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] Alright, last year I tried to signed up for this event and I missed the signup date due to an error in my schedule, but honestly I was happy about that, because I was definitely not ready earlier this year for this kind of race and for sure this is the kind of event that required months of total preparation and mental toughness. I did… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Running Health
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] It has been a while since my last post. A quick update: All is going well, and the NYC Marathon training is coming along just fine. Today with my 1st 20 miler run in preparation for it. A little bit slower than I want it, perhaps due to the warm and humid weather or something else. I am currently troubleshooting that aspect since it is… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: The Guardian versus the Enlite sensors: Test #1
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] Ok here is the deal, I upgraded my insulin pump some time ago. Now I have a 670G Medtronic pump. The big deal about this new pump is that it has a new mode call Auto Mode. You can find a little bit of information here and another blogger wrote a fair good excerpt of his experience with the pump on manual mode and auto… continue reading.
Pacing an event again and loving it
[vc_row no_margin=”true” padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” border=”none”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] I got crazy again, couple weeks ago got an email from the race coordinator looking for a few pacers for the NCRC Classic Umstead Half Marathon. I had so much fun pacing the Tobacco Road event that I want it to perhaps, volunteer and help again runners achieve their targets. I replied with the few time options that I comfortably able to run since Umstead… continue reading.
Running Experiences: An a year goes by, a 365 running streak achieved
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] “The year has 365 days, and I want each and every one of them to be exciting.” Mario Testino [/text_output][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] About a year ago, around 348 days ago, I realized that I ran for 17 days in a row. You see that was very unusual for me since I normally have Fridays as a rest day and either Tuesday or Thursday with a non-running activity. At… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: The CGMS
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] I am Type 1 diabetic runner. That means I am an insulin dependent individual which I receive in specific continuous doses via an insulin pump. I am not going to cover what diabetes is or the difference between the types and other general stuff here. There are plenty of really good information available, you can take a look at sites like The American Diabetes Association, JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation),… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Weav Run app for cadence music synchronization
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] Â From time to time I try different apps to help my running, do better workouts or pass the time during my long runs. Today for my long run I used the WeavRun app for the first time and here are my impressions. The app has a selection of playlists for you to choose from. (It does not use your own stored music) The nice two main thing about the app… continue reading.
Tobacco Road Marathon, what is better than one more bling?
[vc_row no_margin=”true” padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” border=”none”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Today I completed one more Marathon distance event. What makes this one a little bit more special than other ones is that 5 years ago I ran this event as my 1st Full Marathon event. Today, I ran the event again but this time I volunteered as a Pacer for the 4:25 finish pace group. “A pace team is a group of runners led by… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Coming up the Tobacco Road Marathon
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output]  This coming Sunday is the Tobacco Road Marathon. I have been very fortunate to participate multiple time in past years. But last year, I missed running the event and I am kicking my butt for it, since race conditions for last year were super optimal for a race event. For now there is still some time to join the event, since last time I checked there were… continue reading.
Running Shorts: 300th day and counting
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] Today I was able to complete a big running milestone for me, 300 consecutive days of running. This is definitely something that if you were to asked me couple years ago, the most likely answer you would have heard from me is, “ARE YOU INSANE?!” The rule was very simple, for the day to count it must meet the following criteria: At least 2 miles before… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Finally after 5 years trying
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output]This morning as I was reading the usual work and personal emails and finally I saw the confirmation for the NYC Marathon with the good news. I have been trying to get in the lottery for the marathon for five years. After 1st three tries, the NYC Marathon changed the rules for the automatic entry after a certain amount of tries and of course that year… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Today I got this in the mail
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output]Today was pleasently surprise when I opened the mailbox and found the following, It was my 2017 Official Chicago Marathonn Results book. I was not expecting the book, it feels like it was a very long time ago. This was a nice detail of the event to have for the runners, here is the blog post for that event, in which it was not the very… continue reading.
2017 Running Summaries
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] Can not believe 2017 is already over. 2017 was a great year, slow year but still a great year. A few great events and new official long distance but only one PR this year. Although different plan from last year, I followed a training marathon plan in preparation for the two big marathon events. The training plan was a more aggressive plan that I have ever tried before and I… continue reading.
First Ultra-Marathon Completed Derby 50k and loving the distance
[vc_row no_margin=”true” padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” border=”none”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output]Alright, let me start with a statement: I have to admit that running past the 26.2 miles of a marathon is crazy business. But hey, we are all a little bit insane, some more than others. And there is me, insane running all the way. I knew that running my 1st 50k was going to be challenging. I have done 44 miles run, couple years ago… continue reading.
Thanksgiving Turkey Half and more
[vc_row no_margin=”true” padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” border=”none”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving Yesterday I completed my fifth Skinny Turkey Half Marathon. This year I am running the event with my brother in law Luis, who started increasing his running mileage this year to officially complete his fourth half marathon. Did I mention that he completed all four within a 6-month timeframe? Awesome job Luis. For dinner the night before, simple sandwich… continue reading.
2017 Cisco 5k one more year in the books
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Another year, another Cisco 5k tradition. Last Thursday was the Cisco RTP 5k. Similar to last year the event landed after the City of Oak Marathon. So I was a little bit tired recovering from Chicago and Raleigh marathons as well as keeping the daily running streak alive. I thought about taking it easy, but I this year I have not gotten any PRs, so I had… continue reading.
City Of Oaks not a great finish time but an unforgettable great event
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] This was a totally a crazy marathon performance compared to my previous years running this event but, I could trade it for nothing. This year, the Expo was a little bit disappointing. I do not know if it was because of the new location, which had ample space since it moved from its original location to the Convention Center or I went too early in the day. It seemed that… continue reading.
Very warm an amazing Chicago Marathon Experience
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] WOW! I am still speechless and amazed when I recall the marathon experience. This Chicago Marathon was my 15th completed marathon and I am glad I did it this way, with so much amazing marathon coordination, plenty of fuel, music and a surreal spectator support. The early morning started as planned with a light breakfast, grabbed my check-in bag with few items for the post-event just in… continue reading.
Chicago Inaugural International 5k great way to start the running weekend
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] I was fortunate enough to get into the 2017Chicago Marathon. There was also an option to join a 5k as part of the celebrations and a chance to see other runners from other countries. My friend Roland and I decided that since we were going to most likely run around 5 miles anyway why not join the 5k and run if for fun as a pre-race shake… continue reading.
Charlotte 13.1 Race Series Half in prep for Chicago Marathon
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] This summer and fall season I have been concentrating on my marathon training in preparation for Chicago Marathon in early October in the hopes to achieve a PR. I ran this event two years ago and the course is pretty nice and easy with the exception of some unexpected hills during miles 6-7. This year, my friend Roland, my brother-in-law Luis (remember him from running his 1st… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Running daily streak challenge completed
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] Today with the completion of one of my long runs in preparation for Chicago Marathon in October I managed to complete one self inflicted running challenge/streak: 100 consecutive days of running – the criteria was to run 2 or more miles for at least 100 days in a row I have to admit that 100 might not be as impressive as others you have read… continue reading.
Running Shorts: 100th Week and 55th Day Streak
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] This week by coincidence I manage to complete one key goal/challenge and a secondary daily running streak: The secondary streak: About a few weeks ago I had to shuffle my weekly runs because I might of not being able to run over the weekend. So I had to run on a normally what is a rest day. I was feeling ok and finding the time… continue reading.
Raleigh Spring Half with some warm weather
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] This event counts towards the triple medal for the 13.1 Series. I ran this same event last year and although it was a fun event it was warm, humid and slow. This time I had no expectation of PRing this year either since I knew temperature and humidity were going to be warm, but lower compared to last year, but still warm. As usual, there were many runners in… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Vi is keeping me company
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] “I always say if the marathon is a part-time interest, you will only get part-time results.” -Bill Rodgers Alright, it has been more than 100 running miles using Vi. Or I might say, running with Vi. Vi is a Bluetooth headset from LifeBEAM, that once pair with the mobile App, provides you with information, data and company during your runs. Its voice recognition feature allows… continue reading.
Greensboro 13.1 and new sensor location
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Last Sunday I ran the Greensboro Half Marathon, yes I know it was Mothers Day. I guess, I dedicated this event to all the mothers I know, but especially to my wife (Super Mom) and my Mom. The Greensboro Half is part of the Race 13.1 Series. Last year I ran this event, in which I PR for the half but it was a different course. One… continue reading.
Raleigh Rock n Roll Full Marathon keeping it rolling
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Three years ago the Rock and Roll marathon taught me a lesson about respecting the distance. Twice in a row, I have been able to PR in this event. This year I had been training with a formal plan. For weeks I spend endless hours of training and only missing one workout a Tempo run and another workout that turn out to be too much (A 10… continue reading.
Start the Rock and Roll and keep rolling
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Once again the Raleigh Rock’nRoll series came again this year to Raleigh. Like last year they have the Remix Challenge, complete the 5k on Saturday followed by the Half or Full the next day and earn an extra bling. So, I am doing the Remix again for a pre-run the day before the Marathon. This though I convinced my daughter, Bianca to run the same 5k event… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Fundamental Shift
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] “Many people experience a fundamental shift in thinking when they face a life-threatening crisis and suddenly see their priorities in a different light or when they suddenly step into a new role such as that of husband or wife, parent or grandparent, manager or leader.” As a runner, these fundamental shift experiences could come from personal experiences like it happened for me at the Raleigh… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Am I a runner?
“Paradigms are very powerful because they create the lens through which we see the world. The power of a paradigm shift is the essential power of quantum change whether that shift is an instantaneous or slow and deliberate process.” Are you a runner? When did you decide you were a runner? Or when did you realize you were a runner? For me, it took me a very long time to feel comfortable with the identity… continue reading.
Running Experiences: Singing in the… crossed that. Running in the rain
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] I was running the other day on one of my favorite flat trails, The American Tobacco Trail, for a 10 miler on a clear sky and warm day. It was going to be an in and out run, a run that I have done many times. Around five and a half miles, just about a little bit after the turnaround, it started to rain. But not just… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Influencing Strategies
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] “If I try to use human influence strategies and tactics of how to get other people to do what I want, to work better, to be more motivated, to like me and each other – while my character is fundamentally flawed, marked by duplicity and insincerity – then, in the long run, I cannot be successful. My duplicity will breed distrust and everything I do… continue reading.
Running Shorts: Perception to a plan
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″ id=”” class=”” style=””][text_output] “If we want to change a situation, we first have to change ourselves. And to change ourselves effectively, we first have to change our perceptions. And to change ourselves effectively, we first have to change our perceptions.” In 2016 running season, I lost some of the speed I gained from 2015 and the earlier portion in 2016. Even when I was running long miles, there… continue reading.
2016 Running Summaries
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] Another year, another running year gone. The 2016 was a year with many mixed running experiences. For the first time since I started to take on running somewhat as a sport to practice and have better health, I did not follow a solid race training plan and just concentrated on two main challenges for the year. I am very happy with what I was able to accomplish, Running over 2500… continue reading.
Bling, bling, bling, jingle all the way
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Today with this event, I completed another Triple Crown Holiday Challenge. Also this event was the last event for the Race 13.1 Series and to be able to complete the 7th event for the 7th Challenge medal. This week I started my marathon training plan for the 2017 Raleigh Rock and Roll, so this event, also is out of the norm for the training plan which it… continue reading.
Skinny Turkey Half anyone?
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row no_margin=”true” padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” border=”none”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Happy Thanksgiving I believe this is my fourth Skinny Turkey Half Marathon. As many of my other events I have kept adding these fun events to my every year favorites list. The Sunday before the event, I met with the RTR (Raleigh Trail Runners club) group at Umstead Park for a planned 10 miler easy run but instead we ended up… continue reading.
Cisco 5k It is a tradition by now
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Once again here we are running the Cisco 5k. This is more a tradition than anything else. Since I have run this event many times before, I know the route pretty well. I now know more runners and know what to expect during the run. But this time, different from previous years, the event landed after the City of Oak Marathon. So I was a little bit… continue reading.
The Great City of Oaks Marathon
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] I wish I can say I followed a training program for this event but I can’t. This year since I have been focusing of two yearly challenges there has not been much formal training other than keeping the base running high and a few weeks with Yassos workouts. The main long runs were from my Ragnar event weekend and a few over 20 long run miles. Like last year event… continue reading.
Charleston Race 13.1, relying purely on CGMS
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] As part of the Race 13.1 series, I was able to cross another state of the 50 state challenge list for this year with an event in South Carolina. This was the second year for the Charleston Race 13.1 event, but this year due to the damage done to the original course by the Hurricane Mathew the course was change to just be a basically 4 miles and some… continue reading.
Fayetteville half marathon, finally a decent enough event
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Last year I ran this event as part taking as much advantage of the Race 13.1 running series season pass. Every time I run an event in the series it gets cheaper and cheaper. Also like last year I was using this event as part of my training for a full marathon coming up in November. Basically same course, pretty much flat, some rolling hills and two small… continue reading.
Another rainy event, the Matthew Hurricane experience?
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Today not much to report, this probably is the 7th times that I have been able to complete this event. Before the course changes and before it traded hand from the Midtown series to the Race 13.1 series, this event in the June version was my 1st half marathon completion. The weather is not completely cooperating. Hurricane Matthew is pounding the coast of South Carolina and is causing… continue reading.
Did you say Ultra? Ragnar?
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] About couple months ago my cousin asked if I will be interested in running a relay race with him. I think that day I was not necessary completely awake when I responded with an affirmative answer. The event was the Ragnar ADK race which basically is a relay race of about 200 miles from Saratoga Springs to Lake Placid. 36 exchange points in… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: Sugars Low? Then what?
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] I am Type 1 diabetic runner. Which means that I am insulin dependent which I receive in specific doses via an insulin pump. I am not going to cover what diabetes is or the difference between the types and other general stuff here. There are plenty of really good information available, you can take a look in sites like The American Diabetes Association, JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation), WebMD, TuDiabetes,… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: Fueling, carbs and the long runs Part 2
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output]I am Type 1 diabetic runner. Which means that I am insulin dependent which I receive in specific doses via an insulin pump. I am not going to cover what diabetes is or the difference between the types and other general stuff here. There are plenty of really good information available, you can take a look in sites like The American Diabetes Association, JDRF (Juvinile Diabetes Research Foundation), WebMD, TuDiabetes, DLife… continue reading.
Anyone said run four on the fourth?
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Last year I ran this race when a friend from work mentioned this 4 miler event on the Fourth of July. The event is sponsored and organized by the Cardinal Track Cub in Carrboro. This year, very late, I decided to give it a go again, since it was a lot of fun during this event last year. I signed up at bib… continue reading.
Some events you do good, some you don’t
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Today was the third of 13.1 Series. So I get the extra bling for completing 3 13.1 series events. I ran this event last year and it was a fun event. I had similar expectations about the event. Many runners today which is a lot of fun. I believe there were around 1,500 for the half and another 1,000 for the 5k and 10k. Many familiar faces,… continue reading.
Running Experiences: Global Running Day
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] Today is Global Running Day, which is a day for people around the world to celebrate the joys of running. With that in mind I want it to do a quick post today, while reflecting around the past few years since I started running and participating in running events. (I know, I have always had the ability to run, for which I am very grateful) I still remember that time when I… continue reading.
Rainy Richmond,13.1 series listens
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] The 13.1 Series event in Richmond, I ran this event last year. After finishing the most crazy and horrible course that basically took runners for an exciting and comprehensive view of the Richmond Speedway parking lot area. I normally do not provide much feedback, but I remember last year I wrote, as many other runners did, a lengthy feedback and suggestions. I remember thinking that I was… continue reading.
Running Experiences: Guinea fowl anyone?
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] I’m running the other day at one of my favorite calming trails, the American Tobacco Trail, where once in a while I’m used to see the usual squirrels, bugs, spider webs and the occasional deer and even once, I ran early enough to see a group slowly riding horses along the trail. But that morning, it was very peaceful with not many runners at the trail. Sunny… continue reading.
Let’s the 13.1 series begin
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Today is the start, at least for me since there has been 3 prior events, of the Race 13.1 Series half marathons. This is my first event since the RnR Marathon last month. Since then I have done just some long easy runs few times a week and no speed work. Some of the shorter runs were at somewhat challenging trail. Well, to me, the trails felt… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: Fueling, carbs and the long runs Part 1
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output]I am Type 1 diabetic runner. Which means that I am insulin dependent which I receive in specific doses via an insulin pump. I am not going to cover what diabetes is or the difference between the types and other general stuff here. There are plenty of really good information available, you can take a look in sites like The American Diabetes Association, JDRF (Juvinile Diabetes Research Foundation), WebMD, TuDiabetes, DLife… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: Webinar opportunity – Making Sense of Sensors
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Once again the guys at dLife have an edutainment series which provides some good information around general diabetes and details around how to better manage it. I normally do not like to post adds, or other activities that are not necessary my own experiences. But since previous webinar I attended was very informative, well organized, the topic was relevant to running  and I will be attending this learning opportunity, here you go…. continue reading.
Running Diabetes: Your support team: The Medical Support
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] As a runner regardless of the distance you will always have a support team that either directly or indirectly will be there to support and help in your journey to achieve your goals. As part of that support team (Running, life, health) you will want to have a good medical individual/s. Your head doctor or endocrinologist is key and one of the main source of information around diabetes… continue reading.
Remixing the Remix Challenge with the Raleigh Rock n Roll Marathon
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Two years ago the Rock and Roll marathon taught me a lesson about respecting the distance. Last year I was able to redeem myself with a PR event. This year I had nothing to prove other than I needed to finish to be able to collect the remix medal for finishing the 5k yesterday and today the Full Marathon. And so I thought that was going to… continue reading.
It was supposed to be an slow recovery event
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] The Raleigh Rock’nRoll series came again this year. This time they added and additional event a 5K. And with that event they added an additional challenge, the Remix Challenge, complete the 5k on Saturday followed by the Half or Full the next day and earn an extra bling. I have to say that even after these years of running, the bling still is an attractive way to… continue reading.
Running Experiences: The pain and the slowness of recovery
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Alright, after a decent but fun Marathon about two weeks ago, taking a mandatory day off and starting with very low week mileage for that week I went for what was supposed to be an uneventful easy long run. 13 miles was what was on the schedule, as I was running about half a mile to my turn around point another runner turned in and we started… continue reading.
Going back to the original Marathon Event
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] The American Tobacco Trail is also the location of the event that provided me with my 1st opportunity to Marathon experience. Even thought this trail is near my home, I trained a lot of the long run at Umstead Park. The importance of that is that the trails at that park are more challenging and has very hilly routes. Making this trail an easier route. Also for… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: Webinar opportunity – Exercising with Diabetes
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] The guys at dLife, have an edutainment series which provides some good information around general diabetes and details around how to better manage it. I normally do not like to post adds, or other activities that are not necessary my own experiences. But since I will be attenting this learning opportunity this time and the topic is relevant to running here you go. There got to be a few… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: The Basics of Running Diabetes (Part 1)
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output]I am Type 1 diabetic runner, this means that I am insulin dependent which I receive in specific doses via an insulin pump. I am not going to cover what diabetes is or the difference between the types and other general stuff here. There are plenty of really good information available, you can take a look in sites like The American Diabetes Association, JDRF (Juvinile Diabetes Research Foundation), WebMD, TuDiabetes, DLife… continue reading.
2015 Running Summaries
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] The 2015 its pass and done, similar to previous years this is a brief summary of the running year. I am very happy with what I was able to accomplish this pass year. Participating in multiple event and challenges. This part year started with the enrollment of the 13.1 season pass. The pass was a great way to try different events in multiple states (a good thing for my 50 state… continue reading.
Running Experiences: The Mystical Structure
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] During 2015 training season, one of the weird training run was during the later part of December while running at the River-walk path in Hillsborough, NC. The River-walk is a long path of close to 4 miles that runs along the Eno river and very close to downtown area. The area includes many historic buildings and old roads and paths. You can feel the oldness and the peace in the air…. continue reading.
Do you hear what I hear? Triple Crown its in the air
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] Today with this event, I completed another Triple Crown Challenge. Also this event was the Durham Half inaugural race and the last event for the Race 13.1 Series. Since I was just coming from another half just three weeks ago, there was not much preparation for this one. Other than some good fast runs at Umstead State park with my friends from the Raleigh Trail Runners club. The last couple nights… continue reading.
Turkey one, Turkey two, Turkey threeeeeee.
[vc_row no_margin=”true” padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” border=”none”][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] First off, Happy Thanksgiving, I hope is a good one. For the last three years I have been running the Skinny Turkey Half Marathon. Maybe to burn the calories before the festive dinner with the family or maybe because the first time I ran this event it was so much fun that I have been repeating every year. The plan was to go in a have some… continue reading.
Running Diabetes: The Pump
[vc_row no_margin=”true” padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” border=”none”][vc_column width=”1/1″][text_output] I am Type 1 diabetic runner. Which means that I am insulin dependent which I receive in specific doses via an insulin pump. I am not going to cover what diabetes is or the difference between the types and other general stuff here. There are plenty of really good information available, you can take a look in sites like The American Diabetes Association, JDRF (Juvinile Diabetes Research Foundation), WebMD,… continue reading.
2,000 miles and counting
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] Just dropping a quick post to celebrate my 2,000th running mile in a year. This was one of this year’s goals. It was not easy but it was fun. Accelerated schedule to compensate for the possibility of injury during the year. I was very fortunate to had an excellent year (So far) I still have one more big accomplishment coming up soon. To all the my friends and runners out there… continue reading.
Running Experiences: Fireflies as running guides
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] During 2013 training season, one of the most memorable training run during that summer was when running in the trail near Duke University. That trail has tons of plants, tress and dense bushes. It is well covered, lots of shade and very humid. One late afternoon there was a storm approaching, the kind of storm that was going to hit hard fast and then clear up. I decided to run the… continue reading.
10th Marathon! and still loving it!
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] Today I completed my 10th Marathon and it was great. This was also the third time running the City of Oaks Full Marathon, so I am very familiar with the route. For this event, I trained with a combination of back to back long runs over the weekends and Yasso’s for speed work during the week. The Saturday’s long runs are around 8-13 miles depending on the Sunday workout. The Sunday,… continue reading.
It have been 5 consecutive events!
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] This is the fifth time I have run this event, I know the route, I now know a lot more people, know what to expect and I know a little bit more about running than 4 years ago. Similar to the last three years, this one land the week before the Marathon. So I always say that I will take it easy and run it at a just to finish pace…. continue reading.
Close to the 30th, but is the slope changes that gets you.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] Today I am getting closer to the 30th Half Marathon. With this being the 29th since I started running. This one was part of the season pass of the Race13.1, getting to use the pass as much as possible has been one of the goals this year. Also since next weekend I have the full marathon that I have been training for, this one is a “to finish” event. As usual… continue reading.
Another half for the bling, Fayetteville Half
[vc_row no_margin=”true” padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” border=”none”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] As part of the 13.1 running series season pass, I got to run this event basically for less than $30 dollars. Every time I run an event in the series it gets cheaper and cheaper and I love it. In addition, since I am training for a full marathon coming up in November, I could not pass the opportunity and treat it as a good… continue reading.
Second Half in one month
[vc_row no_margin=”true” padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” border=”none”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Here we are again, running the Raliegh 13.1 fall event. In the past, this event has always started at a parking lot near the Northhill’s shopping area and the route took runners down a hill and to the greenway. This time they moved the starting and finish area couple blocks away from the previous spot and changed the route a bit. I was a little… continue reading.
All the hype of a Virtual Race
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] I have seen the virtual races/event on the Web, Emails, and forums for quite some time and to be honest I was never interested in signing up for one. Yes, I understand the main concept, there is the honor system, you sign up, you run and log in the results. A no-brainer, but there is something about the loneliness of that type of event of it that… continue reading.
My first taste of a Triathlon
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Alright, for a while I have been playing with the idea of doing a Triathlon. Actually for about a year, maybe too long ago. The thing is that I only know how to do survival swimming and that has always stopped me from considering doing a Triathlon. For the cycling, I know how to do leisure riding and for running, well that is my only “strength”. I… continue reading.
44 miles for my birthday? Part 1
Ok, call me insane. No, I am serious, really, please do. Earlier this year I read somewhere on the web about some runners that ran their age in celebration of their birthday. Also, I remember at Disney during the Dopey challenge a lady want it to run additional miles the next day to complete the 50 miles over the 5 day period for her 50th birthday celebration. Since that weekend was her birthday. So, I… continue reading.
4 miles on the Fourth, more than a 5k
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] This was an Impromptu event, a friend from work mentioned this 4-mile event on the Fourth of July couple weeks ago. I decided to give it a try and see how I do on a short race that is a tad longer than a 5k. Since it has bee a while since I have done a 5k or 10k, this seems like a happy midpoint. No special… continue reading.
Raleigh Summer Half: Lassiter Hill Anyone?
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output]This half event was Part of the Spring triple crown. This was also the event that three years ago I started running the half marathons distance. The training for this event has been off and on. Meaning that even tho I have been doing all the runs and workouts, I have been meeting and exceeding the weekly mileage. Each run has been more like a, just a run… continue reading.
Parking lot half Marathon
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] This event was part of the 13.1 running series. An extra medal for finishing 3 of the 13.1 events and this one was my third. My friend Roland accelerated his endurance portion of the training to join me during this trip. It was going to be about a 2 1/2 hours of driving to get to the event, so we decided for me to pick him up at 3:00 AM… continue reading.
Hills and more hills half
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] This event was, as previous years, part of the Spring Triple Crown Challenge. I have done this event twice in the past, with last year being able to improve my time. I have only been able to train at Umstead Park, hill galore trails, only once this time. Most of my training had been completed on the Tobacco Trail which is basically flat with sometimes very low incline, which some… continue reading.
Long trip for a Half
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] This event was part of the 13.1 half marathon series. The season pass will allow you to run all Race 13.1 17 events. I figured out, that running 4 events is a break even for the 200 cost. Since every year for the past three years I have been running two of the Race 13.1 events, and since some of the events were out of state, I decided to sign… continue reading.
Rolling to a better Rock and Roll
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] The morning ritual started, as usual, an early morning, got in my running clothes, had oatmeal, coffee, hold on to the banana until about an hour to start the race. I got the energy drink ready, and the the post shake ready in the cooler with some ice and gels. Counted and check the energy gels, energy blocks, check the IPod shuffle, sun glasses, running bib, running shoes everything is ok…. continue reading.
The 5k that it was not supposed to be
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] Different from previous events, I decided that for my next 1/2 and/or full marathon, I was going to do some easy 2-3 miles the day before. I have seen other do a shake out run prior to their events. So on Saturday, I was planning to take my to her swimming practice and go to the trail I normally go to do my runs for a short quick run. when… continue reading.
American Tobacco Trail Marathon
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] After doing the half instead of the full last year, this time I went back to the original Marathon Event. Training has been very solid in terms of the miles and the frequency. The only thing is that most of the training short sessions were done on a treadmill either at gym or hotel with the majority of the long runs done outside. My concern was the speedwork, even doing… continue reading.
Flat Wilmington Half, sweet
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] This was the 1st event of the 2015 season and my 20th Half Marathon. This was also part of the 13.1 series which in 2015 will have more than 15 events to choose from. And what it was great about that was that a $200 season pass allowed me to run as many events I want it to attend. To basically break even I needed to… continue reading.
Pursuing the Skinny Turkey
[vc_row no_margin=”true” padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” border=”none”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Well last year I had tons of fun during this event but even with all the fun I have forgotten most of the course with the exception of the last steep hill. Last year was really cold and the roads were icy and I remember missing the 1st water station due to not many volunteers at the station or was the station not ready for… continue reading.
Second time for City of Oaks Marathon
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output] This is the second time doing this Full Marathon and my third time running this event. In preparation for this marathon, I completed all my 10 Yassos at 8:00 minute mile pace or better during the past few weeks of training. The weekend before I did the Hollowed Half for the triple crown a great event to sustain the pace for long time and also did a PR on my… continue reading.
Cisco’s Five Kilometer original event
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Alright this marks the completion of my third year of running and my fourth Cisco 5K run. This event was the one that started it all the one that definitely hooked me into running. The event started at 11:00AM, sunny, small breeze temperature slightly warm. I did about a mile of warm up with some butt kick and high knee segments. The 1st mile was just a… continue reading.
Spooky Hollowed Half for the Triple
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Last event for the Fall triple crown challenge. The temperatures were 5 degrees warmer than last year at the start with also it rising up by mid point of the race. Like previous running events the morning fuel: Oatmeal & coffee but different this time a banana closer to the starting time. There were less people in the event this year compare to… continue reading.
A sub 2:00 half not a fluke
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Same routine as before, night before get all the stuff ready, gels, bib, bottle, belt, post run drink, oatmeal set up (overnight in the fridge ready to eat in the morning). I woke up around 4:30AM, ate oatmeal, had my latte, a quick visit to the bathroom before leaving the house. I was heading out early, I did not want it to encounter any issues on the… continue reading.
In the search of a sub 2:00 half
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Done this event before so I am prepare for this. I woke up around 4:30AM, same routine as for the long runs. The usual oatmeal, coffee and a visit to the bathroom before heading out of the house. Got to the event location with plenty of time, found good parking. At 6:30 I exchanged my tech event shirts from Large to Medium, yes I know why mention… continue reading.
Disneyland Half to complete 2014 bling set
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] The Disneyland Half Marathon is a great event, specially for people doing their 1st half. The course is very flat, some rolling hills here and there but nothing too challenging. Plus with all the distraction from the different characters picture locations, school bands, school shows, theme parks, baseball stadium and other very nice features, once again, you forget that you are in a… continue reading.
Coast2Coast here we go
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Ahhhh, the Coast to Coast Challenge. I get the chance to run two events at Disney and upon completion receive 4 medals and cross CA from the State Challenge list, nice! I traveled the day before the 10k to LA, my friend Roland was already there and picked me up from LAX. Got to the hotel, went to the expo, collected the bib… continue reading.
With lots of respect to prove I am worthy of finishing
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/1″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Back in early June I had a business trip scheduled to visit one of our offices in Utah. I searched for running events during that weekend near the Salt Lake City area to try to run a distance of a half marathon that weekend and opportunistically cover one more state off my 50 states list this year. To my surprise there was one… continue reading.
Scrubby run
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output]Last time I did the Scrub Run, I suffered a little bit. I perhaps did not mentioned of my Scrub Run post from two years ago, but now that some time has passed, I do still remember it. This year coming from several events ups and downs, a bad full marathon performance, a very successful REI 10K in under an hour. I decided to go at it again… continue reading.
Midtown now 13.1 the last one for Spring Triple Crown
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] This was the last 2014 Spring Triple Crown event and once again the infamous Lassiter Mill hill was on the menu. That morning same race/event ritual that has work for me in the past. Got up, this time a little bit earlier, changed into my running gear, oatmeal, a latte, checked sugars (well within running range) and one last visit to the bathroom and off out the… continue reading.
Tackling a hilly 10K
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] My friend Roland found this 10K when he was browsing events near the Raleigh. This was another inaugural and cheap event. Since I have not PR on a 10K this year and I really want it to break the 10K under 1hr mark, I decided to go for it. The race was going to at the place at Umstead Park. At the same hilly route we used… continue reading.
Getting confidence from the half
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] After a disastrous, very disappointment but full of tell tales about the marathon experience (From which I learned tons specially about the respect of the distance, my diabetes and myself) I moved on to my next event, a half marathon. I needed something to regain once again some of the confidence that I can do distance running. Yes, I know, a half it is not 26.2 miles and… continue reading.
The 26.2 distance hits me with a touch of respect
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] Alright, at one time or another, we all make weird crazy decisions and sometimes some of those decisions turned to be totally horrible ones. Almost a year prior this start of the event I signed up for the Raleigh Rock-n-Roll half marathon. This was the 1st time the Rock and Roll series planned to do an event in NC. At that time that was the half was the plan, to perform good… continue reading.
A pacer running confusion
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] The American Tobacco Trail, the home of most of my training runs. It is also the location of the event that provided me with my 1st Marathon. This time I was back but running the half. I want it to run the full marathon but, the triple spring crown substituted one of their events with this half and if I want it to qualify for the Triple Crown,… continue reading.
The EPIC adventure
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] After a successful back to back four day events with the Dopey Challenge, I needed to start working on crossing another state from a 50 states challenge. So far I had NC and Fl, so my friend Roland and I decided to tackle Arkansas for couple reasons. It was another state It is a huge finisher medal Did I mention the HUGE bling!!!? Again this was another… continue reading.
Pluto, Minnie, Donald, Mickey, Goofy, Dopey and Carlos… huh?
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] This was the big day, the final event of the Dopey Challenge, the Grand, Full Marathon. Now that we basically were adjusted to the morning routine for the past three days, somewhat rested and we were ready for the Full Marathon. Same process for preparation, pre-event, running and finish sequence as we did for the 5k, 10k and the half, but with one only difference, we needed to… continue reading.
I am starting to feel Dopey
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] By having the 5k and 10k events under the belt we focus our energy to the half, we are now in serious endurance distance event. Do not get me wrong, is not that 3.1 and 6.2 miles are not serious distances, they are and do offer their own set of challenges, but with the half, you start adding and playing with different set of variables like, the… continue reading.
Double Inaugural event!!!
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] The 10k is the second event on the second day of the Dopey challenge. The 5k went fine, my friend Roland and I we took our time. We knew that this is a long, long challenge type of event so even for the 10k we need to take it easy. The Pre-Event: Early morning on Friday, we woke up around 2:50AM since the buses started leaving at… continue reading.
Starting Dopey with a 5k
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] I remember an earlier post where I mentioned that during my half marathon at Disney there was this craziness challenge called the Goofy challenge. Well the smart guys at RunDisney decided that being Goofy was not enough and they created an additional challenge the Dopey Challenge. The Dopey challenge consist of back to back events for four days. A 5k, a 10k, a Half Marathon and finally,… continue reading.
2013 Running Summaries
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output][/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] What a great running year 2013 was, so many events and learning opportunities. This year I really felt like I am starting to become a “runner”. Hey, training and finishing a marathon is no easy task, not many people have been able to do so. But, finishing two marathons in a span of a year while improving your time by more than 20 minutes, that is the 2013… continue reading.
Running with the turkeys
[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px” width=”2/3″][text_output] I signed up for this event very late. I saw a flyer in a previous event and decided very late to sign up for it. After coming out running great half marathons and a full I decided to add one more half for fun, specially since this event was on Thanksgiving Day. Who in the right mind think that running a half marathon for fun is a… continue reading.
Two Marathons in a year?
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] A Second Full Marathon and I am ready. I ran this event half last year but only the half and I remember seeing the full runners veering away from the half runners and I want it to try to do the full. I had couple 20 milers in the bag from training and few more 18 milers. Still doing some walk on those training runs but felt that I was going… continue reading.
3rd consecutive Cisco 5k
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] Ahhhh, the event that started it all for my running adventures and event career being my 18th event. This year I was feeling great and ready. Since I have been putting plenty of weekly miles and longer distance events I cracked a smile while waiting for the sound of the start. 5k a short distance now as I reflect on those first few months in which running 2 miles fast without… continue reading.
Happy Hallowrunning
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] This event is the last of the Fall Triple Crown Challenge. Unfortunately for Roland, my running training friend, he missed this one due to an injury. Temperature for this one event at start was very cold 43 degrees and dry. I got to event early grabbed my bib and walked around a bit. Even tho it was cold, it felt great. I decided to not wear the stocking hat during the… continue reading.
The great Nemesis appears and suddenly there is a challenge.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] After a very close to DNS (Did not Start) due to traffic on my last event, I decided to leave way way early from my house for this event. After eating some breakfast, got there with plenty of time. My glucose readings were good and well within the running range. Looked around a bit while the event crew was setting up the event area. Not much later I met with my… continue reading.
Seeing Double Triple?
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] Alright after a successful completion of the Triple Crown, the coordinators decided to have a Fall Triple Crown event. Once again three half marathons in about two month time frame. So Roland and I signed up for the challenge again.The first one was the Johnson Lexus 13.1, similar route than the Lookout Capital Half back in June. Training over the summer was brutal, very Hot, very Humid and miserable. I had to… continue reading.
The Triple Crown Challenge for the bling
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] Alright, last half marathon I suffered a lot. This time I decided to take it easy and just finish relax and with energy. This event is held at the same start/area than my 1st half. The route was very similar, just the trail part was slightly different, but same hill at the end, the Lasseter Hill. In this event I am running with my friend Roland to complete the triple crown… continue reading.
The almost my 1st half… glad it was not!
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] After a successful prior half and being able to train several time at the Umstead Park trails my friend Roland and I were ready to tackle the second Half Marathon of the triple crown challenge, the NCRC Classic. We knew the hills, the route (we thought) and where able to put a sound strategy in place around when to push the pace and where to pull back. Well, we all learn… continue reading.
Looking for the next challenge
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] In the search of local races to run, we came across with a site that offered the Triple Crown Challenge. In a nutshell, complete a series of three half marathons in a bout a two and a half months period and upon completion of the last one you will get an extra medal. That by itself got our attention. Since now it feels like it is all about the bling, Roland… continue reading.
A Marathon to remember, the 1st
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] For this my 1st Marathon, with a few 18 milers, couple 20s and one 24 miler during training I was under the impression that I was ready to tackle this task. During training I even ran over icy trails during a couple of those long runs with my friend and running madman, Roland. Running, sliding and tipping toeing making sure that we do not get injured with just a month prior… continue reading.
The Disney magic of running
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] My first attempt to a huge event with over 24k participants (That is just the runners). The Half Marathon at Walt Disney Word. With my wife and daughter took our time a drove to the area, the day before the race. Just arriving at the hotel at the Disney facilities and it was evident that for such big race, it was extremely well organized event, only the way Disney can make… continue reading.
2012 Running Summary
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] Another year has gone by, 2012 is the 1st full running year. I am very pleased with what I was able to accomplish this year. The training miles, research, reading, trying, learning, the ups and downs, being able to complete more than one half marathon, participating and finishing a year over year repeat event with the Cisco Food Bank 5k to name a few of the running items that I was… continue reading.
I see Santa… …a few miles behind.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] This one by far, was one of my favorite runs in 2012, the last race for the year. I was able convinced Bianca (My daughter) to run this 5k with me. The reality is that, she is a really good competitive swimmer and does not really like to run much. Well, she will run really fast, if it is to the pool. The only way to convince her was to make… continue reading.
One year of serious running gone past.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] After a year of “training”, reading, talking and trying to learn something about running has gone by. This event mark the 1st anniversary race event. Completed in this year’s span: 5 – 5ks 1 – 10k 2 – Half Marathons Last year, the Cisco Food Bank 5k, was my 1st race event, today it is my 9. Having completed those couple half marathons, 10K and other 5Ks, I felt that it… continue reading.
Going after the half in scenic downtown
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] This was the second time running a race in this distance. At work they were already telling me “why? why doing another one? You already complete one not so long ago… You are insane.” Roland, a friend of mine also from work, signed up for this one as well. We ran together in past events, couple 5Ks and my last 10k just a month ago. At that last event Roland had… continue reading.
A race to get ready for a race
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] Alright, I already completed couple 5k events and them jumped to the half, skipping one distance event that lies in between. This was my 1st 10K, the Scrub Run 2012 in Raleigh. Although it was kind of a just for fun event, I did not apply my previous learning from other event to this one. Maybe I thought that because I have done a Half Marathon the month before this event,… continue reading.
Running an event with friends
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] After a somewhat successful completion of a Half Marathon, at work I connected with couple of my friends that were interested in running, Roland and Randall. One of them ran before a few years ago, casual running and in a couple 5K. The other, although doing some sport activity in his life, biking, soccer but not much running. We decided to train together for a 5k in October. Slowly we started… continue reading.
The inexperience runner and the Half
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] Since the last 5K event where I was able to watch the start of a half marathon, a few weeks of training including a “successful” 14 mile training run that included minimal walking and with the encouragement of friends from work, I decided to sign up for a Half Marathon. Yes I know, I am not even going to try a 10K 1st, just going to jump to the Half Marathon… continue reading.
Attempting the 5k again…
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] A month after the my previous running event I ran this race because of the 31 seconds that caused me to be over 30 minutes goal time. This time I was going to put in place a few things I learned from my other two races. One thing for starters, this time I went to pick my bib early so I would not miss the T-shirt. Also since it was near… continue reading.
Here we go, lets try this again
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output] My second try to a 5k, in a very cold, cold morning. Five months after the 1st 5k and the problem with my calf during that event, I want it to be able to run the entire event without any issues. There are more people at this event around 700. Much more than the Cisco 5k with about 100. Feeling very nervous once again, since I do not know what to… continue reading.
2011 Running Summary
[vc_row no_margin=”true” padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px” border=”none”][vc_column width=”1/6″][text_output] [/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][text_output]2011 its coming to a close. I am very happy with what I was able to accomplish this year. Participating and finishing the Cisco Food Bank 5k was an awesome experience. The training, the miles, the learning, the good and the not so good all was part of this 1st year of training. A few things I learned, running with old shoes, not a good idea. When I… continue reading.
Finally, the insanity begins with a first event.
So I have been running at home on a treadmill for a few months. Slowly ramping up the miles. Even before moving to North Carolina, I started running in the garage. I knew I was able to run for about an hour or so without stopping while watching my favorite TV shows. But I knew that running in a treadmill is not the same as street running. Also running by myself is not the same… continue reading.
Hello world! Hello insanity
How about that, blog 1st post. So much to say, so much to share but at this time this is the only sane thing to say. Happy to be here alive and to be able to enjoy running. What other people may find in poetry or art museums, I find in the flight of a good drive. .completion of a good run. Arnold Palmer