I want to run a marathon.

[zx6roxy]

Sweet!:banana

Once a week?:confused

[MrCrash]

Originally posted by zx6roxy
Who's in?:confused

John
Roxy
Stan?
Mike?
Joel?

That's the weekend after the Vineman Half IM. I'll probably just barely be walking again at that point!

[Baptistro]

So how do I increase cadence? Just move my feet faster?

Originally posted by Atak Kat
We should have a BARF meet at a track and do some intervals.

I'm totally down for that.

[zx6roxy]

Just pick up your feet ....move 'em faster....shorter strides

I'm down for a track meet...

which track would we meet at?

[machete]

hey mike, i'll be moving to SF in a few weeks, so riding bikes should be easier.

yes, what track? i wouldn't mind running with others, as it seems to be the only way to motivate myself...otherwise it still seems boring. :( music helps.

[Baptistro]

Someone pick a track and let's make this happen :banana

[zx6roxy]

Skyline in San Bruno is well lit --not many people use that field.

Kezar Stadium in SF....but I'm not sure what they're weekly schedule is like....

What track is near you Bap?

What about you Joel?

Maybe we can vary the location, one week in San Mateo, another in SF, the other in the east bay

[Atak Kat]

I'm in San Mateo and I run at the Aragon HS track sometimes, but it's not lit at night.

It's right off Hwy 92.

If everyone's up north, I don't mind coming up once a week. No need to come all they way down here for little 'ol me.

[Baptistro]

I'm running tomorrow morning with Len Goldman at the Piedmont High School track at 8:00 a.m., I'll give you my review sometime tomorrow.

Merritt College track is right down the street from my house as well.

[MrCrash]

Originally posted by glf
hey mike, i'll be moving to SF in a few weeks, so riding bikes should be easier.

Keep me posted! I've been doing a little riding with DucatiHoney and smallnfast here in the east bay - billswim will probably be joining us soon.

I've been splitting my time between triathlon club rides in Marin, and rides with friends in the East Bay. There should be plenty of good riding to do once you get here!

- Mike

[machete]

Originally posted by CityBikeMike
Keep me posted! I've been doing a little riding with DucatiHoney and smallnfast here in the east bay - billswim will probably be joining us soon.

I've been splitting my time between triathlon club rides in Marin, and rides with friends in the East Bay. There should be plenty of good riding to do once you get here!

- Mike

that's cool dude. will let you know.

i would be more excited to do mini tri's or similiar than just a marathon (or only a running event) i think cause of the varying events and transition from one to the other. and it is more exciting.

I used to run duathlons (run, bike, run) in south texas. not alot of swimming areas. and those were fun.

[stan23]

Originally posted by glf
hey mike, i'll be moving to SF in a few weeks, so riding bikes should be easier.

yes, what track? i wouldn't mind running with others, as it seems to be the only way to motivate myself...otherwise it still seems boring. :( music helps.

i'm down to run.. except i'm in the southbay... :cool

So when you moving here? Now I got a place to crash when I get out of hand in the city.. THANKS!!! :thumbup

[machete]

Originally posted by stan23
i'm down to run.. except i'm in the southbay... :cool

So when you moving here? Now I got a place to crash when I get out of hand in the city.. THANKS!!! :thumbup

pimp, you can sleep at the foot of my bed! :twofinger

you got a bicycle?

[zx6roxy]

I think there's a bunch of us here with road bikes too:teeth

[Atak Kat]

Hmm....interval idea...

Bring road bikes to the running track.
Run some distance then bike some distance. Not biking on the track obviously, just a small bike loop on the streets.

run->bike->run->bike, etc.

crazy?

[zx6roxy]

Not at all:laughing

BTW, the Nike Marathon in SF has SOLD OUT

[Atak Kat]

What coincidence. I just received this email from Nike:

As you may know, the 2007 Nike Women's Marathon and Half Marathon is sold out.
Due to popular demand, we have created a special random drawing for additional Half Marathon entries.
The random drawing will close on April 2, 2007 at 5:00PM.
The entries will be chosen at random and announced on April 9th, 2007.

[zx6roxy]

so, which track?

[Baptistro]

The track at Piedmont High was actually real nice, with a paved (painted clay color) track and an astro turf infield. There are lights, and I'm sure they're turned on since the track stays open til 10:00 p.m., I think.

I'll check out Merritt College this weekend.

[zx6roxy]

I'd like to check out the Piedmont track. What is their weekly schedule?

[tocino]

Originally posted by zx6roxy

Make an effort to ice your knees after EVERY run for about 15-20 minutes, even if you don't feel any aches/pains. Your knees will thank you.



this works for any sport that requires you to be running around a lot. I started to ice my knees after someone gave me this tip when I was 25-ish. I can't see myself not doing this evertime I'm done playing a pick-up basketball game now :teeth

[Baptistro]

Originally posted by zx6roxy
I'd like to check out the Piedmont track. What is their weekly schedule?

I believe weekdays it is officially open to the public from 3:00 p.m. til 8:00 p.m.or later.

Weekends it is open I believe from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. or later.

Let's set something up there. It's a brand new track surface.

BTW, anyone tried Chi running?

[Atak Kat]

Originally posted by Baptistro
I believe weekdays it is officially open to the public from 3:00 p.m. til 8:00 p.m.or later.

Weekends it is open I believe from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. or later.
I can't do Wednesdays or Sundays.
Otherwise, the rest of my week is flexible.


BTW, anyone tried Chi running?
Never heard of it until now. But what I've read so far from internet search (http://search.yahoo.com/search?fr=ytff1-&p=chi%20running&ei=UTF-8) , it makes sense.
I believe any endurance sport that takes 3-6 hours or longer will have an effect on your mind at some point.

On that note, I finished one of my longest training runs so far...16 miles. Just shy of 3 hours. I was supposed to do 18 but I ran out of daylight at the sawyer camp trail. At the end of the run I could barely see the trail with the moon light .

Today my knees were very sore and I was exhausted. Got up at 7:30am and was already asleep on the couch again by 11:00am for a power nap.

Good thing today was a 'rest' day.

-ak-

[Baptistro]

I'm running Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday this week. If you guys want to meet up any of those days, I'm down.

Originally posted by Atak Kat

Never heard of it until now. But what I've read so far from internet search (http://search.yahoo.com/search?fr=ytff1-&p=chi%20running&ei=UTF-8) , it makes sense.
I believe any endurance sport that takes 3-6 hours or longer will have an effect on your mind at some point.


I took a half day seminar on Chi running a few weeks ago at the Piedmont track. You guys know how I've been struggling with my injuries from the accident, and from when I started running. My regular run is through Leona Canyon, which is basically one big hilly roller coaster for 1.5 mile each way. I can complete that in my 40 minute workout using a 3 min run / 1 min walk ratio, and I feel great afterwards with both knees and ankles intact.

It is when I am at rest that my left leg bothers me more now. Go figure. Oh, MRI of the left ankle coming up this Wednesday.

[stan23]

Any southbayers up for a run? I run occasionally with another barfer, and we run at the track in Campbell (padded - very nice for the joints!)

[zx6roxy]

I've maintained my 30-35miles/week of running the past month.

The July SF Marathon is 19 weeks from this Sunday, and also the start of my marathon training program.

I will be running 5days a week and following ONLY the total weekly mileage and long run distance from this schedule (http://www.marathontraining.com/marathon/m_sch_2.html) My other runs will vary according to my work and school schedule.

My runs during the week are fairly short ranging from 5-6 miles.

I'm not sure where you guys are in your long runs but it would be nice to have some company during these runs.

[zx6roxy]

Originally posted by Atak Kat
On that note, I finished one of my longest training runs so far...16 miles. Just shy of 3 hours. I was supposed to do 18 but I ran out of daylight at the sawyer camp trail. At the end of the run I could barely see the trail with the moon light .

Today my knees were very sore and I was exhausted. Got up at 7:30am and was already asleep on the couch again by 11:00am for a power nap.

Good thing today was a 'rest' day.

-ak-

16miles! wow, what is your route at Sawyer Camp?

Did you soak your legs in an ice water bath? I try to do that for any runs over 15miles.

When is your race?

[Baptistro]

I find out what my running schedule is for the next month in a week. I've got someone coaching me and setting up a monthly schedule with the July 29 marathon in mind. I have no idea what my long runs are going to look like yet, but I'm more than happy to hook up during the week for the shorter runs. Let me know if you want to hit the track or get on the trails.

[Atak Kat]

Well, it's now almost a week until my first marathon so I'm officially in taper mode.

My longest run was 20 miles last Sunday and it went pretty well. A slightly sore lower back was something new that I encountered after the run, but the sore knees, quad and calf muscles were expected.

Ran 10 miles last Thursday and plan to do an 8 miler tomorrow.

And then it's only three tapering runs next week: 3, 4, & 2 mile runs and then two consecutive rest days before my marathon on Sunday.

I started my run training in January and at this point I just want to get this over with.
Looking at my running log, I've put in 275 miles.
My training plan called for 421 miles, but I'll take what I've put in so far. :)

-ak-

[Atak Kat]

I did it!

All 26.2 miles!!

I was targeting for under 5 hours yesterday and just made it (4:51).

The scenery along Hwy 1 at Big Sur was amazing and the weather was great. I really wish I had brought a camera with me on the run.

I never really hit 'the wall' and drinking at every aid station helped. I didn't even really need to carry fluids with me (I had a fuel belt with 4 x 8oz bottles with cytomax) since there was water and gatorade every 1.5 miles.

Overall, I had a really great run.
No injuries, just sore legs.

So who's next to complete their first Marathon?

:)

-ak-

[MrCrash]

Congrats! I'm hoping for something later this year - gonna start running again next week and see how my ankle reacts.

[zx6roxy]

Congratulations Joel!:banana:thumbup:teeth

[Baptistro]

Originally posted by Atak Kat
I did it!

All 26.2 miles!!

I was targeting for under 5 hours yesterday and just made it (4:51).

The scenery along Hwy 1 at Big Sur was amazing and the weather was great. I really wish I had brought a camera with me on the run.

I never really hit 'the wall' and drinking at every aid station helped. I didn't even really need to carry fluids with me (I had a fuel belt with 4 x 8oz bottles with cytomax) since there was water and gatorade every 1.5 miles.

Overall, I had a really great run.
No injuries, just sore legs.

So who's next to complete their first Marathon?

:)

-ak-

Congrats Joel!!!! :thumbup

I'm still training for the July 29 SF Marathon, wish us luck ;)

[Baptistro]

People, as soon as my runs got past an hour in length, my nipples have been super sore. Anything I can do for this other than bandaids over the nipples when I run? I sweat profusely, and the bandaids just come off after a while. When I forget the bandaids completely though, I end up regretting it for days :p

[Atak Kat]

Bap, Bodyglide (http://www.bodyglide.com/) worked for me. Sportmart/Sports Authority and Sports Basement should have it.

[zx6roxy]

I've been using BodyGlide for my feet especially around the toes....blisters are gone!

[Baptistro]

sweet, I'll try that out....... will it work even if I've got a hairy chest?

[Baptistro]

you guys recommend the sun formula?

[Atak Kat]

Originally posted by Baptistro
sweet, I'll try that out....... will it work even if I've got a hairy chest?
Yeah, it'll still work. Just make sure you get enough bodyglide on the skin.

you guys recommend the sun formula?
Never tried it. I think it's a new product. Would probably be a good idea though on any areas that are exposed to the sun (you run topless, Bap? :p )

[Baptistro]

If I ran topless I wouldn't have issues with chafed nipples now would I? :twofinger

[Baptistro]

Questions on hydration during practice long runs:

I've been trying to regularly hydrate every twenty minutes, with a little squirt of energy gel, to stay ahead of the curve.

I've tried running with a fannypack as well as with a camelback, and I find that the fannypack does not carry enough water for me for anything longer than an 80 minute run, so I switched to a camelback for the longer runs. However, it's heavy, and I usually end up with leftover water. Do I just need to add the right amount and play with that, or is there a better way to do this in your experience?

[machete]

Originally posted by Baptistro
If I ran topless I wouldn't have issues with chafed nipples now would I? :twofinger

you guys must have sensitive nipples, cause in all my runs(4+ hrs) , i've never chafed like that. :confused

what you need to do, is go over to helga's house of pain, and have her work those nips just right, so they are trained just as much as the rest of your body. that is all i can contribute. enjoy. :teeth

[Atak Kat]

Originally posted by Baptistro

I've tried running with a fannypack as well as with a camelback, and I find that the fannypack does not carry enough water for me for anything longer than an 80 minute run, so I switched to a camelback for the longer runs. However, it's heavy, and I usually end up with leftover water. Do I just need to add the right amount and play with that, or is there a better way to do this in your experience?

I use a Fuel Belt (http://www.fuelbelt.com/fuel_belts/fuel_belts.html) (4-bottle).

I was previously running with a belt that held a single 12oz bottle, but as less liquid remained in the bottle after drinking, the constant 'swishing' sound in the bottle drove me nuts.

One of the reasons I liked running at Sawyer Camp Trail in San Mateo is that there are water fountains along the trail and I would just refill when I needed to.

[Baptistro]

Originally posted by glf
you guys must have sensitive nipples, cause in all my runs(4+ hrs) , i've never chafed like that. :confused



Dude, that's what happens when you have outies :twofinger

Originally posted by Atak Kat
I use a Fuel Belt (http://www.fuelbelt.com/fuel_belts/fuel_belts.html) (4-bottle).

I was previously running with a belt that held a single 12oz bottle, but as less liquid remained in the bottle after drinking, the constant 'swishing' sound in the bottle drove me nuts.

One of the reasons I liked running at Sawyer Camp Trail in San Mateo is that there are water fountains along the trail and I would just refill when I needed to.

The only thing about the fuel belt is having all that stuff all over my waist. One of the reasons I'm not all that in to the fanny pack (single 22 oz bottle), is that I feel it restricts my hips and waist from moving freely. Maybe I'll go try some more fuel belts on.

Just 74 DTG.

[MrCrash]

Originally posted by Atak Kat
I use a Fuel Belt (http://www.fuelbelt.com/fuel_belts/fuel_belts.html) (4-bottle).

I use the same 4 bottle belt. I've been totally happy with it. I like how nothing swishes or bounces around, with the weight being very evenly distributed. I can hardly tell it's there.

I also have a pair of larger 10 oz bottles for when I need additional fluid. I generally empty all 4 8oz bottles around the 10 mile mark during my summer runs.

[Baptistro]

How's the fit of the belt, does it ride up and down, or stay pretty much in place?

[MrCrash]

Originally posted by Baptistro
How's the fit of the belt, does it ride up and down, or stay pretty much in place?

Doesn't ride up and down at all. It's a velcro fastener that allows me to easily adjust the tightness of it.

I tried that single bottle one that looks like a fanny pack, and ended up giving it away when I got my Fuel Belt. Because the bottles are small and the weight is evenly distributed, I don't even feel it.

[Baptistro]

yeah, this is the one I'm using now, and I really don't like it

http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/RRU1007/

[zx6roxy]

+1 on the Fuel Belt:thumbup

Hey Joel,

When you were training for your marathon, how did you manage to squeeze in the cycling and swim sessions?

Currently, with 4-5 runs per week, I've been able to add 2 swim sessions, the cycling on the other hand, is nonexistent....

This Sunday, I'm 5 weeks away from the SJ Intl Triathlon and 10 weeks from the SF marathon.

[Atak Kat]

I get up at 4:30am and workout until about 7am. It's either a swim/spin brick at the gym, or a long bike or run.

And if I didn't run in the morning, I'd run at lunch time at work or take an extended afternoon 'break' to get a long run in.

And if I didn't get a morning or mid-day workout, I'd run after work when I got home.

So basically it was twice-a-day workouts, and on my rest days for running I'd either just swim or just bike. So I really only had one complete rest day of doing absolutely nothing.
Most of the of the week I'd really have to make the time (read sacrifice time with friends/family/work) to stick to my workout schedule.

[Baptistro]

Anyone else running this weekend?

[General Alcazar]

Yeah. Just got a pair of Nike Free. Can't wait to give 'em a try!

[zx6roxy]

I think he meant running the SF marathon.

GOod luck Bap!;)

[MrCrash]

Good luck John!

[Atak Kat]

Have a great run, Bap!

-ak-

[Atak Kat]

Originally posted by zx6roxy
I think he meant running the SF marathon.

GOod luck Bap!;)

Aren't you running the marathon too?

-ak-

[stan23]

Thanks for bringing this thread back on top. While my training had been derailed due to some other stuff (mainly laziness and riding the bicycle more)

I'm still interested in doing a marathon sometime in the future. Possibly early next year. I'm still running, but not in training pace.

[General Alcazar]

Originally posted by zx6roxy
I think he meant running the SF marathon.

GOod luck Bap!;)

:blush Oops. Yeah - I won't be running the marathon, that's for sure! Good luck!

[zx6roxy]

Originally posted by Atak Kat
Aren't you running the marathon too?

-ak-

No, not this one.

I was in burnout mode for a good couple of months and never fully recovered until I drastically cut down the frequency and mileage of my runs.

It just took a lot out of me to a point where it wasn't fun anymore and felt like a chore more than anything else.

I went from running 35-40 miles per week to 10-15....I feel a lot better now.

I may do one in December, we'll see.

[yoda]

Originally posted by zx6roxy
No, not this one.

I was in burnout mode for a good couple of months and never fully recovered until I drastically cut down the frequency and mileage of my runs.

It just took a lot out of me to a point where it wasn't fun anymore and felt like a chore more than anything else.

I went from running 35-40 miles per week to 10-15....I feel a lot better now.

I may do one in December, we'll see.


OH STOP IT! Just admit it...you found a playmate! Nuf sed! :hand

:p

[zx6roxy]

:laughing:twofinger

I got him running with me too:p

[Baptistro]

hi guys, so... I finished... but I almost didn't.

I'll get my pics together and post up my story in a couple of days. Overall, it was an awesome experience, but would I do it again? That remains to be seen :p

[machete]

freaking awesome dude. congrats.

[dgbernstein]

Congrats Bap!

You are now officially a Marathoner.

[MrCrash]

Can't wait to hear the story, John. Congrats!

[Atak Kat]

Awesome! Congrats, Bap!!!

Yeah, going down steps is going to be painful for a couple of days. ;)

Just take it easy for the next couple of days and maybe even schedule a massage this week (it really does help).

Do some very light stretching. I waited a full week before getting back in the gym.

Give your body some time to recover. You just put it through 26.2 miles of hell. :D

-ak-

[zx6roxy]

Congratulations John!

So, did you start with your dad?

[dgbernstein]

My 15.7 mile run this past Saturday had me do something I thought I'd never do...walk.

I hit the wall at about the 13.5 mile mark and stopped. I walked about 1/4 mile over the next mile. Then started running the last stretch home.

The last 1.5 miles hurt, and it still does, but I still did my 3 miles this morning.

[Baptistro]

Hi guys, sorry I've been lagging on getting something up here, but I'll get it done this week. I'm still freaking sore, and being on my feet 12 hours on Saturday and Sunday didn't help.

DGB, make absolutely sure your long runs are LSR's, with emphasis on the SLOW. Just barely fast enough to get your heartrate in workout mode, and slow enough to carry on a conversation while running. I'm definitely suffering from that one.

Just as a teaser, my 1/2 marathon split was 2:12, and I finished in 5:12 :cry

[scratchpad]

Yesterday in the docs office i picked up Men's journal or some shit and read the article about Dean K and the 24 hour run on a treadmill suspended in mid air. I think it said he ran 128 miles. Didnt make the record of 153 miles. This guy is hardcore. Of course y'all already knew that.:teeth

[Baptistro]

Better late than never right? Well, here's my photo account of my marathon. The pics of actually running are few and far between as there were not that many stations that were easy to get to for Tracy.

Up by 3:30 a.m.!!!! JFC!!! Could this thing be any earlier?

Anyway, the day started out a little early in the morning, which turned out to be a godsend by the end of the marathon.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3348816-sfm.1.jpg

[Baptistro]

My first race bib. Pinning it onto my singlet while having a light breakfast. At this point, I was still half asleep, and the realization of what was to come hadn't even hit me yet. Little did I realize what I would be putting my body through in the coming hours.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3348843-sfm.2.jpg

[Baptistro]

We drove into the city, a short drive with almost no traffic at that time of the morning.

I started getting a little nervous in the car, but felt it would not be that difficult since I felt I had trained hard for the event. We got hooked up with staff parking passes, so we only had to walk a block to get to our starting corral.

Here's my dad and Tracy looking chipper in the morning.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3348851-sfm.3.jpg

[Baptistro]

One of me and Tracy as well.

Tracy was uber supportive during my training, through my minor injuries, and was essential in making this happen for me. She knew that I was doing this for my dad, and helped me see this through. Thanks for all the encouragement and support babe, I couldn't have done this without you :love

This is about the last time for about 6 hours that I'll be wearing a self satisfied smile on my face :(

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3348861-sfm.4.jpg

[Baptistro]

So the place is a madhouse at 4:15 in the morning, with volunteers and participants all over the place.

The race is set up to start in waves, with the faster and elite runner who will finish in a little over two hours in the front waves, and the rest of us on down the line until the 9th wave.

I was originally supposed to start in wave 8, but my dad and I decided we would run in wave 7 together in his wave. Here we are after finding our starting corral. It was seriously like being herded like cattle. Kind of a weird feeling, but I guess they have to manage the crowds somehow.



It's freaking cold, I have to pee, and I need a cigarette really badly.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3348886-sfm.5.jpg

[Baptistro]

People are talking and I think I hear that there are over 6000 marathoners signed up for this event, with a total of around 20,000 for all of the combined events. I also start hearing things about this being the marathon with one of the highest dropout rates in the country. I guess a lot of people start but DNF.

I'm starting to get nervous now.

So, while my dad is waiting for one of the hundreds of portolets that are set up, I sneak off for a cigarette (You guys should have seen some of the looks I was getting ;)).

While I'm at it, I ask Tracy to take a pic of me by the finish line, since I'm now feeling this might be the only one I'll get with me anywhere near it.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3348905-sfm.6.jpg

[Baptistro]

Heh, Tracy wants in too. :p

Yeah, my camera work sucks ass :p

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3348909-sfm.8.jpg

[Baptistro]

So all the participants have been corraled into the starting groups, and are sent out in waves. Tracy had to go catch the shuttle, so wasn't able to get our start, but I'm positive she wouldn't have been able to find us in the crowd. You can't really tell here, but all the competitors have now been bunched up on the north side of the Embarcadero, and are getting ready to be sent out on their respective starts.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3348917-sfm.9.jpg

[Baptistro]

So all throughout the field, there are these people with balloons and signs that are pace runners. They have their estimated finish time written on the placards and balloons. Tracy didn't get any pics of them, but I was amazed at their ability to accurately gauge their pace for all 26.2 miles.

Anyway, this next pic is of me running by Chrissie Field just before the hills in the Presidio and the GG Bridge. I'm running pretty good here, running 8-9 minute miles running 9 minutes and resting one, feeling strong.

I had a video camera with me for the first 4 miles to get the start, and film the run over the GGB, but the rig I had set up to attach to my fuel belt fell apart and ended up handing it off to Tracy as I went by here.

I did get some good clips of the madness at the start. I'll see if I can get them uploaded on You Tube or something.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3351096-sfm.10.jpg

[Baptistro]

Almost nine miles later, after crossing the GGB (it was cold, windy, and foggy, but it was quite an experience), we came down through the Sea Cliff neighborhood, through the outer Richmond, and into GG Park.

This picture was taken haf a mile or or so before the halfway marker, at around mile 12.6. At this time, I'm still feeling strong, cardio is good, pace is good. Shortly after this picture was taken, my dad and I crossed the half way mark together, with a time of 2:12:07.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3351146-sfm.11.jpg

[Baptistro]

Right after that, things start to head south for me.

Almost half a mile after the halfway point, I'm starting to get some numbness on the soles of my feet.

I start thinking already that perhaps doing most of my training on fire trails in the east bay may not have been the best preparation for this road race. My miles logged on pavement were insignificant.

A mile later, the each footfall suddenly starts to feel like I'm getting slapped on the soles of my bare feet with a wooden paddle. It's brutally intense.

I start to think also that maybe these shoes have way too many miles on them as I can feel the pavement on the soles of my feet with every footfall. And maybe that using the thinner socks for my longest run to date was not the brightest of ideas.

My mental game is falling apart from the pain.

By mile 15, I tell my dad to go ahead, that I have to decrease my pace.

I take water and painkillers at every aid station, and eventually end up chewing up the tablets in the hopes that I will get even minimally quicker absorption. The acrid taste in my mouth at least distracts me from the pain a little bit.

Over the next 7 miles, I have to decrease my pace at each rest period to the point where I'm jogging three minutes and walking three minutes by mile 22.5.

The water stations seem to be getting further and further apart.

I adjust my stride to ease my feet, and my ankles start to go. Then my knees go as well, and finally my hips start to stiffen up.

I want to quit so bad, I can't even tell you right now.

There were definitely three distinct times when I felt I could not go on and was ready to quit. When I literally felt like I wanted to just sit down by the side of the road and just wait til someone picked me up. I also knew that if I got off my feet there was no way I was getting back up.

The first was in GG Park, just before the exit to the park at Haight. There's a little shaded area the twisty path takes you through with really soft looking grass. There was a female rider there, a volunteer, on a blue SV650S. I don't remember exactly what she said, but she must have known I was about to quit. Something happened, the words I can't remember now gave me strength, and I was able to go on.

Only a few miles later, as I was approaching the turn to Mission Street, and once again I was ready to pack it in.

The SFPD diverted the route right in front of me to ease up on traffic, and one they moved the barriers and rounded the corner I suddenly found myself running on my own, with no one in front of me, down an abandoned Guerrero Street in a totally surreal moment. I was all alone. The thought occurred that I had been abandoned, that someone was playing a cruel joke, and that I would never reach the finish line. The nearest runner to me was perhaps 60 yards behind looking just as confused as me.

Running those blocks alone was probably one of the loneliest, but most peaceful experiences I have ever felt.

With the pain numbing my mind, I thought it would be real easy to fade away and disappear at this point. I was strangely ok with finishing right there, at the end of the next two blocks, before having to turn left again.

That left turn onto 16th Street, changed all that. I turned the corner to see a mass of people gathered around to cheer us on. I felt as if I had walked into my own private surprise party. As soon as I rounded that corner, it was like a solid wall of cheers, shouts, and support were trying to knock me off my feet and keep me going at the same time. Both sides of the street were strewn with people, with more coming out of doorways with every step. Every generation seemed to have come out to show their support, mothers with infants, children running alongside, elderly people, all smiling, cheering, waving little flags, running up with cut up bananas, bunches of grapes, and paper cups filled with water.

The Mission was a pleasure to run through. It seemed as though they were all out en force to show their support, but my legs just were not going to hold out much further. I made it through the Mission, and that energy got me to Potrero Hill. By this time, every step was pure agony.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3351248-sfm.12.jpg

[Baptistro]

So I need something more, I need something to keep me going. My dad is way ahead of me, and it's been almost two hours since I've seen Tracy. In characteristic unfair fashion, I decide to make the excuse that if she is not there at the last shuttle stop at mile 22.5, I am just gonna call it quits. I come up on the water station, pick up some water, and keep my eyes out peeled for my baby. I don't see her and start to get discouraged. As I'm despairing, thinking she either took off thinking she missed me, or she was unable to get here, I finally see her. She's jumping up and down with tears in her eyes as I come over and tell her I just can't go any further. I think this pic really says it all.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3351298-sfm.13.1.jpg

[Baptistro]

If it hadn't been for Tracy's encouragement, I would have been done. She actually videotaped me saying how much it hurt and how badly I wanted to stop. She talked me into finishing, and I did not want to disappoint.

I also did not want to let down my dad. My original goal in starting training for the marathon, was to give something of myself to my father. For 30 years, we did not get along, and as such, I realized I had never really done anything for my father.

When he told me he was coming to SF to run the marathon, I jokingly mentioned to Tracy that I should run it with him. She thought it was a great idea, but we both thought it was impossible. There was no way I could run a marathon.

The more I though about it, the better it sounded, and it became a possibility. I signed up, decided I would surprise my dad, and began my training while still recovering from some injuries.

After all that, and after seeing the look on my father's face when we told him two days prior, I decided there was no way I could not finish. I would crawl to the finish line if I had to.

My dad waited for me at the finish.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3351326-sfm.14.jpg

[Baptistro]

now where is that boy of mine?

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3351330-sfm.15.jpg

[Baptistro]

Half an hour later, barely able to pick up my feet, there I came.
Actual chip time: 5:12:37

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3351335-sfm.16.jpg

[Baptistro]

Happy father, and me about to collapse

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3351338-sfm.17.jpg

[Baptistro]

Looking a little better after a brief rest and a cigarette :smoking

It was a good thing the race started when it did, and I feel for those who still had to finish behind me, since the fog had just started to burn off, the the sun was brutal.

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3351383-sfm.18.jpg

[Baptistro]

Having a BBQ lunch with some of the volunteers. Maybe have a BARF volunteer contingent next year?

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3351387-sfm.19.jpg

[Baptistro]

And finally, a special thanks to the two people that really made this happen. :love

http://www.bayarearidersforum.com/forums/images/threads/000/185/856/3351388-sfm.20.jpg

[Baptistro]

Oh, and although I told myself immediately after the race that I would never, ever do that again, I am thinking now that I could have done much better, and am thinking of doing it again :p

[zx6roxy]

Thanks for sharing your marathon experience John:applause:thumbup

You did great!:cool

So, which marathon were you thinking of doing next?:p

[Baptistro]

Not sure yet. Was just talking to Mike about that this past weekend. Want to start training for tris as well.

[MrCrash]

Congrats again, John. Let me know if any marathons look good to you.

There's the Silicon Valley Marathon in November, but that course sounds kinda blah. The California International Marathon in December sounds a bit hilly. Biz Johnson is sold out.

Maybe we're waiting til Napa?

[Baptistro]

Napa is in March right? That would be a good goal to set.

[scratchpad]

Good job man, you finished.

[stan23]

:applause :applause :applause :applause :applause

Much applause for you John.

That was a great story and the photo's say it all. I'm glad you were able to set out and accomplish this monumental task.

Next one, I want to be right there with you guys!

I'm doing a double run tonight!

[MrCrash]

Originally posted by Baptistro
Napa is in March right? That would be a good goal to set.

Agreed. I'm in no rush.

When were you thinking of doing your first tri? Could be time for another new, fun thread :)

[Baptistro]

I'd like to get some time training first. I might be enticed into doing a sprint earlier than later, but anything beyond minimal distances and I'm gonna need some training. Gotta do some more reading on tris before I can say for sure.

[Atak Kat]

Congrats, Bap!

Way to finish!!!

Big Sur in '08 anyone? :teeth

-ak-

[wannabe]

Originally posted by CityBikeMike
Congrats again, John. Let me know if any marathons look good to you.

There's the Silicon Valley Marathon in November, but that course sounds kinda blah. The California International Marathon in December sounds a bit hilly. Biz Johnson is sold out.

Maybe we're waiting til Napa?



First of all, a big congrats to Bap! :thumbup (Yeah, I'm a bit late to this thread.)

I definitely recommend against the Silicon Valley Marathon. Yes, it's totally flat especially compared to the SF marathon, but the last 10K of the race is brutal. It is literally straight down First Street in Downtown San Jose. Yes, straight. There are no freakin turns the last 6 miles. I swear that every time I looked up, it felt like the mile markers were getting farther and farther apart.

[wannabe]

Hey Kids,

So, it looks like I just went ahead and took the plunge. I signed up for the Rock & Roll in San Diego next year. (June 1st, 2008) I have 36 weeks to train for it. Anyone else want to do this with me, or am I gonna fly solo?

This one has been hanging over my head for a few years. I previously signed up for it a few years ago, but I got injured during the training. I'm determined to make it this time.

I'm up to 2 miles only right now, so I have a long way to go. I'm not worried. The last time I made a decision to run a marathon, I couldn't even run around the block. So, I figure that I'm ahead of the curve this time.

[Atak Kat]

An intriguing and inspirational movie. Hope to see it if/when it comes to the Bay Area:

Spirit of the Marathon (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8XSit8XyeM)

[wannabe]

An intriguing and inspirational movie. Hope to see it if/when it comes to the Bay Area:

Spirit of the Marathon (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8XSit8XyeM)



Thanks. That was cool. Man, I guess it's been a while since I was running a lot. I remember when Deena (Drossen) Kastor was a cross country champion and mostly a 5K specialist. She's running marathons now? That's cool.


edit: In case anyone cares, I'm up to three-mile runs now. Just plugging away on my end. :teeth

[Baptistro]

Aris, I'm cosidering the R&R. I'll let you know.

[wannabe]

Aris, I'm cosidering the R&R. I'll let you know.




Sweet! :thumbup

[JMack]

CONGRATS BRO!!!


You said and you did!!!!!

Mighty achievement there, dawg!!! HUGE!!!

[Atak Kat]

Set your Tivos.

Marathon Challenge (http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/marathon/about.html) is airing on Nova/PBS tonight.

"How do you run 26.2 miles if you have trouble making it around the block? With good coach*ing, discipline, and lots of group support, as NOVA shows when it follows 13 generally sedentary people through a training regimen designed to prepare them for an ultimate test of stamina and endurance. Created in cooperation with the Boston Athletic Association®, which granted NOVA unprec*edented access to the 111th Boston Marathon®, and Tufts University, "Marathon Challenge" takes viewers on a unique adventure inside the human body, tracking the physiological changes that exercise can bring about."

-ak-

[HaChu]

Congrats Bap :applause :applause :thumbup

Thanks for sharing your experience. Very inspiring and got me thinking :)

[Atak Kat]

An intriguing and inspirational movie. Hope to see it if/when it comes to the Bay Area:

Spirit of the Marathon (http://www.marathonmovie.com/home.html)

There's an encore showing tomorrow:

Century San Francisco Centre 9 (market st) and the Century theatre in Mtn view (and a few other Bay Area theatres. Check fandango).

There's only one showtime: 7:30pm.

I'm thinking of going to the one in San Francisco. Anyone else?

Spirit of the Marathon (http://www.marathonmovie.com/home.html)

-ak-

[mrspeebles]

Dang! If I would've known back in February, I totally would've gone. :(

We're running the SF Marathon in August!! Anyone else?

[Baptistro]

Dang! If I would've known back in February, I totally would've gone. :(

We're running the SF Marathon in August!! Anyone else?

I'm saving myself for next year. I'm in more well rounded strength and endurance building mode this year and am focusing on triathlons. Goal is 2-3 marathons next year and an ironman tri before the end of the decade.

[zx6roxy]

http://sports.yahoo.com/top/news?slug=britmarathon030508&prov=reuters&type=lgns

*******************

LONDON - Already Britain’s oldest employee, 101-year-old Buster Martin now aims to become the world’s oldest marathon runner by completing the London Marathon and celebrating with a pint of beer and a cigarette.

Sprightly and bearded, he completed a half marathon at the weekend in five hours 13 minutes. The former Army physical training instructor works three days a week for a London plumbing firm and says he has trained for the April 13th race in his spare time.

“I’ve said I’ll attempt it,” he told Reuters by telephone from his workplace at Pimlico Plumbers. “I haven’t said I’ll complete it. If I do make it, all the better. I hadn’t thought of doing it before but someone asked me and the money goes to charity so why not?”

His sponsorship money will go to the Rhys Daniels Trust, which provides temporary accommodation for families of patients in specialist children’s hospitals.

Martin, who had 17 children and returned to work at the age of 99 saying he was bored after two years of retirement, would beat the previous record for world’s oldest marathon runner by eight years.

“If I finish, I’ll do what I always do and have a pint and a fag,” he said. “People ask what is my secret but I haven’t got one. They say fags and booze are bad for you—but I’m still here, aren’t I?”

********************

Amazing!:wow

[Atak Kat]

We're running the SF Marathon in August!! Anyone else?

I just signed up today!

I'll be on the sawyer camp trail this weekend for an 18 mile run if anyone wants to join me. :teeth

-ak-

[motomaven]

You should start training for a half marathon first. I ran my first one in April, the Santa Cruz half marathon. I trained for a couple months prior, but had a foot injury 2 weeks before the run and never ran more than 8 miles until the day of the half marathon. It's amazing what adrenaline can do for you. I finished in better shape than I thought I'd be. To train I ran one long run a week, 5+ miles or so, and shorter runs every other day (3 miles). You should also start trying out runners goo, various brands and flavors, to find one that you like. It really helped throughout the race to eat that and drink the water with electrolytes.

San Jose has the Rock and Roll half marathon coming up in Oct. You might want to consider running in that one.

Good luck to you!

[Baptistro]

I am running the SF marathon again in 2009, anyone else up for the challenge?

[SteveMcqueen]

I am running the SF marathon again in 2009, anyone else up for the challenge?

If you have not run the Sacramento International you should try it sometime. Very fast rolling slight down hill for the first 10 miles and then mostly flat. It's the only place I was able to break three hours but that was 1996 and 25 lbs ago. :teeth

[machete]

been running 3-5 times a week. just putting in miles. Thinking of signing up for the Pismo Beach half marathon on Feb 1st. Just to help a friend out who is running for her first time. Otherwise, I'm interested in some local events. Bap, I might see ya at the SF marathon. :)

[Oz]

hhhmmm... I'd like to try for the SF Marathon. Hopefully By then I will be ready..

Rick,
I can let you know when I do some of the trail runs I've been doing. I'm still working on my speed. But I'm happy considering where I was a couple years ago...:)

[Baptistro]

If you have not run the Sacramento International you should try it sometime. Very fast rolling slight down hill for the first 10 miles and then mostly flat. It's the only place I was able to break three hours but that was 1996 and 25 lbs ago. :teeth

Holy crap!!!! I think I'd be ecstatic breaking 4 hours at this point :laughing

been running 3-5 times a week. just putting in miles. Thinking of signing up for the Pismo Beach half marathon on Feb 1st. Just to help a friend out who is running for her first time. Otherwise, I'm interested in some local events. Bap, I might see ya at the SF marathon. :)

That would be awesome Rick. Let me know. Registration fees increase after December 31, so you might want to sign up if you need the added incentive.

hhhmmm... I'd like to try for the SF Marathon. Hopefully By then I will be ready..

Rick,
I can let you know when I do some of the trail runs I've been doing. I'm still working on my speed. But I'm happy considering where I was a couple years ago...:)

Oz, I'm in Pinole now, so if you need a running partner, I'd be happy to hook up for a few runs.

[machete]

hhhmmm... I'd like to try for the SF Marathon. Hopefully By then I will be ready..

Rick,
I can let you know when I do some of the trail runs I've been doing. I'm still working on my speed. But I'm happy considering where I was a couple years ago...:)

Oz, yeah that sounds cool. no worries on the speed. just hit me up, you got my number. I'll run the trails with you.

Bap, yep, I might need to just go ahead and sign up for better incentive. I'm not following a strict training regime, but I'm putting in miles per week. so far 10 - 14 miles per week, and will increase. just got some new asics 2130's and they feel so much better than my worn out shoes.

going for a 4.5 miler in a bit.

[SteveMcqueen]

Holy crap!!!! I think I'd be ecstatic breaking 4 hours at this point :laughing


Running and mountain biking was my life in the 90's. I was running 70 miles a week before that marathon.

23 / 99 / 99 Stephen Humphreys M 38 - 2:53:28 06:37 pace per mile

Twelve years later I can't even run one mile at 6:37 pace...:laughing
That same marathon a 72 year old man ran 3:05, now thats a real stud...:thumbup

[Oz]

Oz, I'm in Pinole now, so if you need a running partner, I'd be happy to hook up for a few runs.


Thanks Bap! Will have to take you up on that..:thumbup

Did a 20k this past weekend at Rodeo Beach. Awesome trail and got lucky with the weather. I did about the pace I wanted. Just need to work on being able to do more distance. Might do a 30k next time out and hopefully can hold the same pace.

http://trail.motionbased.com/trail/episode/view.do?episodePk.pkValue=7313543

[Baptistro]

Thanks Bap! Will have to take you up on that..:thumbup

Did a 20k this past weekend at Rodeo Beach. Awesome trail and got lucky with the weather. I did about the pace I wanted. Just need to work on being able to do more distance. Might do a 30k next time out and hopefully can hold the same pace.

http://trail.motionbased.com/trail/episode/view.do?episodePk.pkValue=7313543

That looks like a fun run. Let me know for sure when you plan another run, I'd love to join you, and pick your brain in photography :)

How did you feel after the run? Pretty strong? That's almost a half marathon right there. Why not run the SF with us this year?

[Oz]

I felt Ok. If I would have kept going I could have done another few miles with out stopping. The hills in the middle of the run is what got me. I pushed a little harder than usual and I could feel it by the end.

I will post up when I do the next one.
I thinking 20k or 30k at Redwood Park in Oakland on Feb 28 for my next trail run. http://www.pctrailruns.com/Sequoia_Wntr.htm

If my plans fall through, I might do a Pacifica TR on Jan 17 21k.
http://www.pctrailruns.com/Pacifica_Wntr.htm

I'm thinking about doing the SF Marathon this year. Just want to make sure I've trained enough to finish all with out stopping. Just one of my goals.

:teeth

That looks like a fun run. Let me know for sure when you plan another run, I'd love to join you, and pick your brain in photography :)

How did you feel after the run? Pretty strong? That's almost a half marathon right there. Why not run the SF with us this year?

[Baptistro]

Early bird registration ends on January 1, Ozzy, so that might be an added incentive to do it :)

[wannabe]

Anyone know of a half marathon in the mid to late February time frame? I was going to do the Pismo Beach half marathon, but I just found out that it was cancelled in 2009.

[machete]

Anyone know of a half marathon in the mid to late February time frame? I was going to do the Pismo Beach half marathon, but I just found out that it was cancelled in 2009.

WTF!? seriously? cause I was about to sign up for that. I think my friend is already signed up for it too. gonna have to give her a shout. Is that the one on the 1st of Feb.?

[Mistyz]

Oooph! I forgot to post that I ran my first half! In September. 2:30 finish time. Yay! :D

[MrCrash]

WTF!? seriously? cause I was about to sign up for that. I think my friend is already signed up for it too. gonna have to give her a shout. Is that the one on the 1st of Feb.?

The Kaiser Half is that weekend too:

http://xnet.kp.org/sanfrancisco/index.html

As much as I want to give a half (or full) marathon a go, I've got to watch my spending til I'm done with school. I'll continue keeping an eye on this thread though :)

[machete]

The Kaiser Half is that weekend too:

http://xnet.kp.org/sanfrancisco/index.html

As much as I want to give a half (or full) marathon a go, I've got to watch my spending til I'm done with school. I'll continue keeping an eye on this thread though :)

thanks Mikey, will check on that one for sure.
:thumbup