ThatRunninGuy

Random Running Ruminations

2013-05-21T05:11:00.001-04:00

"Ruminations". There...I got to use a 'Three Dollar Word'. Sally will be so proud. Now I just have to use it correctly. Borrowing a page from her book, here is the dictionary definition:

ru·mi·na·tion (rm-nshn) n.

1. The act of pondering; meditation.
2. The act or process of chewing cud.

Hmmm...Sally has noted that sometimes while watching TV I absentmindedly 'Chew my cud'. I am definitely on to something here. And the best part: while running I both chew my cud and ponder. Here are some of my recent ruminations:

From Dan Cumming, Seasoned Runner, Running Guru, Marathoner, Ultra Runner, this gem about setting a new running goal: "In your next 10K, run your age". He suggested this after seeing my chip time from the recent Sporting Life 10K in Toronto. So for me this means running a 55 minute 10K. To do it I'll need to shave 4 minutes or so off my time. Summer training here we come!
"I gotta loose some weight, I gotta loose some weight...".
"When the H did I put on this weight?". Darn salty snacks...and beer!
Time to buy new shoes. Do I go minimalist again or find a happy medium. I like the mid-foot running style...comfortable and I feel like I can run all day. Suggestions?
Breathe! From the stomach...I think they call it 'Diaphramatic Breathing'...there, that's my other $3 word for today!
Left, Right...repeat. This isn't so hard.

And just like that I'm back home. Nice run. Now what were those great ideas that ran through my mind again?

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My other planned races in 2013 include:

The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

A day of running firsts on May 12

2013-05-14T04:51:00.002-04:00

27,000 Runners at the Start of the Sporting Life 10K
Photo courtesy of Bonnie Fowler

First of all the Sporting Life 10K this past Sunday morning was the first race Sally has driven me to in well over a year. That is not trivial: it was a 5:30 am wake up call for her on a cold Sunday morning. And on Mother's Day to boot. Yes, she really loves me. Tia on the other hand just wanted to go for a car ride!

Getting to the start was an easy cross-town drive via a couple of side streets that got me very close to the baggage check truck just north of the Sporting Life store on Yonge Street. Kudos for the race organizers for handling the bag check very well: at the end of the race, all the checked bags were neatly lined up and organized according to race bib number. I was able to get out of my wet running gear very quickly. But I am ahead of myself...

27,000 runners is one extremely large group!

Thankfully the race organizers had it figured out very well. We were placed in colour-coded start corals based on our expected finish times. Then each group was sent off at 10 minute intervals. Even with this set up, I was always running in a crowd. But that was the thrill of it.

At 10 kilometres this first race in over a year wasn't a particularly challenging distance for me physically. Plus it was almost all downhill. Mentally though it was a different matter. Would I crack a previously injured foot bone? Would my plantar issue rear it's nasty little head? Would my calf muscles seize up? With those thoughts buzzing through my head, my head kept me slow and steady for almost the entire race. That was a first! I did pick up the pace at the 8 K mark though and managed a sprint-to-the finish for the final 500 metres.

The post-race experience was a breeze: through the finish chute quickly, medal over head, Gatorade, banana and bagel in quick order. These race organizers had it down pat with enough volunteers to ensure there were no glitches. The acid test though was the bag claim area. There was absolutely no delay in picking out my bag and getting out of my wet gear quickly. That was absolutely necessary since by then it was totally overcast and windy. It was cold!

One final note: I ran with one of my son's and his friends. OK, let's try that again: I was in the same race event as Court. He was in the first starting wave just behind the Elites and burned up the course in just under 41 minutes. That was truly fast. Maybe if he actually trained... It is a nice feeling to know that 'the kid' was out there though. For fun here are the results:

	Age Group	Age Group Placing	Overall Placing	Pace / KM	Chip Time
Chris	Male 55 - 59	178/360	9932	6:08	59:23
Court	Male 25 - 29	388/1850	454	4:13	40:54

So with the 25 year age difference I ran 50% slower and still placed in the top half in my age group. I could have sworn there were more 'middle age' men running. Not bad for the "Old Man' though.

Oh, and Sally, for my next race in October I'll take a cab.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My other planned races in 2013 include:

The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

Running through my mind

2013-05-07T05:06:00.000-04:00

Sunrise over Toronto

What's so special about running? Ridiculously simple and doesn't require any really special equipment. A decent pair of running shoes, comfortable and weather-appropriate gear and the great outdoors. Dead simple. I've tried swimming and cycling...for a couple of years I competed in Triathlons. Sprint distances only but I gained respect for elite athletes. I liked both swimming and cycling although the wet suit and Tri-Bike were serious investments. But I loved the run...is it any surprise that Triathlons finish with a run?

So after a lot of thought and consideration...OK, I really thought about these on my latest run...here are some random thoughts:

"If running is easy why is this run so hard"
"Breathe, breathe, breathe..."
"Dam...that driver doesn't see me...I'll go behind the car". Better to be alive than injured
"Love the birds chirping". Ahhh...it must be spring
"Keep moving". I hate stop lights!
"Fresh air". I live and run in a heavily populated urban area but am blessed with the running routes lined with mature trees.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My planned races in 2013 include:

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

A lot of Running this past weekend

2013-04-30T03:39:00.000-04:00

Ran to Work
in my
2010 Reggae Marathon T

Whew! I need a day off after this past weekend. It was packed with running and it was all good.

First up was Run to Work Friday. It was a 12 km run mostly downhill from home to the office in downtown Toronto. I took all my clothes to the office Thursday and traveled light on Friday morning: debit card, Driver's License and Subway pass. The Subway pass was 'just in case' but thankfully I didn't have to use it and subject passengers to my 'Runner's Scent'. The running itself was uneventful. I was incredibly slow but I got er dun! I'm feeling pretty good for my first race this year the Sporting Life 10 K on May 12.

At Runner's Mark
Reggae Marathon Info Session

On Saturday morning I didn't run. It seems I have finally figured out that rest is an important part of staying fit and healthy so I did a whole bunch of pushups. Working on the core! I know I have a six-pack under that layer of middle-age stomach fat. I did get to talk running however as the guest of the Runner's Mark group who are planning their return to Reggae Marathon this December. Saturday at 12 noon was their Reggae Marathon information session. Ingrid, Carl and Wendy and their group enjoyed themselves in Negril last December and are looking forward to even more fun this December.

Sunday morning I headed to the local high school track for some speed work. Honestly this is not my favourite form of running but after a tough workout I feel great. Physically tired of course but mentally satisfied. The afternoon was spent as usual with Tia watching another James Bond movie. Casino Royal...again. Tia sees Daniel Craig as eye candy! Plus it was a reward for me after all that running.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My planned races in 2013 include:

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

Running to Work this Friday for Boston

2013-04-23T04:42:00.000-04:00

Not only will I get in a long run this Friday morning, I'll be supporting everyone in Boston. It's officially called Run to Work Day and it grabbed me when I heard about it.

The tragedy in Boston really affected me last week. Both as a runner and more personally: I had family members who where at the finish line near where the bomb went off. My cousin's daughter was at the exact site of the blast earlier in the afternoon and my other cousin's husband, a police officer was on the EMT.

So this Friday, in support of all the people who were affected in Boston last week, I'm running to work and making a donation to Run to Work Day. You won't be able to miss me in the streets of Toronto this Friday...I'll be in my Reggae Marathon 2012 T Shirt! Will you join me this Friday?

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My planned races in 2013 include:

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

Boston Marathon: April 15, 2013

2013-04-16T10:29:00.004-04:00

Sally has waited for me at Finish Lines more times than I can remember. Hours of standing around waiting for that all too brief glimpse of me finishing another race. I may not see her as I strain to hit the timing mats, but I know she's there and that's all that matters.

As I watched the horror unfold in Boston on Monday, I was sickened then saddened. What an incredibly terrible act on innocent people. I thought about my own personal experience with Sally waiting patiently for me to finish so many of my races. Then my heart went out to all the people in Boston: runners, volunteers, staff, spectators, family and friends. My thoughts and prayers were with you on Monday and will be with you forever.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My planned races in 2013 include:

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

It's been 6 months since my last long run

2013-04-09T05:15:00.000-04:00

My favourite place to run!

10 kilometers! That's how far I ran on my 'long run' this past weekend. The first time I've been out for any reasonable distance since last September when I had 'The Incident'.

I had a good run. Let me re-state that: I had a GREAT run! Finally!

I ran at my favourite time of day, early morning along one of my special routes: the Hunber River. That's a picture of the trees along the paved path that follows the river. And even though it was early April I had the full winter running gear on. Winter just does not seem to want to leave us in Toronto this year.

It wasn't a particularly fast fun but that wasn't the point. Getting it done was the achievement. Here are some of the thoughts that rambled through my head:

"I did it". An adaptation of the 'Just do it' slogan, I really wasn't confident I could actually run again. Silly thought I know...broken bones do mend.
"My breathing has gone to hell". I was fine until 'The Hill' at around the 6 km mark. "Will this climb ever end...why am I so out of breath?".
"Holy Crap...My quads hurt". I have to re-train those big upper thigh muscles to run again.
"Love handles?...where did those come from?" Thankfully it was still dark and I was wearing a jacket. This jiggly stuff around my waist sure is't fun to carry along for 10K!
"Mid-foot running". Short strides, faster turnover, easier running. Hey, I think I finally got the hang of mid-foot running.

With that first long run under my belt I'm now looking forward to my first race on May 12 the Sporting Life 10K. Straight down Yonge Street to the Lakeshore. It's mostly downhill. Gravity should compensate for my lack of speed.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My planned races in 2013 include:

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

A few of my favourite runs

2013-04-02T05:18:00.001-04:00

Another run on the Beach

I've been running for a long time. Lots of training runs, fun runs and races. And I've run in just about every place I've traveled. I have lots of memories of great runs and very few of the bad ones. Funny how running seems to do that. For this post on a -4 degree Celsius morning on April 2 (I thought April Fool's Day only lasted until 12 noon April 1), I'm motivated to share a few of my favourite runs:

Calling myself a runner way back at this early stage is a bit of an exaggeration. A shuffler maybe, a jogger for sure. But after making the decision, I made it through my first 10 K: My 1st 10 K
By the time I wrote this next blog post I'd been running for many years. I'd completed numerous 10K races when that distance was all the rage. I'd done some 15K races and even a couple of Half Marathons. But I'd never completed a Full Marathon. Could I call myself a real runner? My first attempt at the Full Marathon distance was to be my last for many, many years: The Unfinished Marathon
It wasn't quite a backpack trip through France and we didn't stay in First Class hotels but when I traveled through France with my friend Tim, I enjoyed a number of great runs with him in places such as Tours, La Rochelle and Biaritz. Her is one of my favourites from that trip: Tim and Chris run in Tours
When I look back on the Christmas of 1997 I still shake my head in amazement that I managed to handle the stress and challenges of taking Court, Andrew and Holden on a two week vacation to Australia. The long flights were worth it though: on stopovers in Vancouver on the way down and in Hawaii on the way back, we took in a lot of experiences. We had fun...we bonded. It remains a highlight of my life to be sure. And of course I got to run in Australia. My favourite: Coogie Beach, Sydney
2008 through 2009 was a tough 18 months. Time has softened it a bit but it was still challenging. From the passing of my Dad in September 2008 though loosing my job at the depth of the recession, running was constant. The highlight was the Reggae Marathon in December 2009 where I successfully finished my first marathon: Unfinished business finished at Reggae Marathon

To be sure there are many other running experiences and stories. Some written and many to come. These are just a few of my favourite runs...so far.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My planned races in 2013 include:

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

Running saved my life

2013-03-26T02:47:00.000-04:00

Lisa reminded me of why I love running. And I don't just mean because of the positive health benefits although managing my weight and blood pressure were the reasons I started running in the first place. No, beyond the physical, running saved my life during those dark periods in my life when it looked as if I would never get through the 'Life Challenges'. Discipline, mental toughness, "Just do it' are all part of the running experience. In running as in life, the only way to succeed is to "Just keep moving!" And running saved my life again recently.

I was drawn to this train of thought after a particularly intense conversation with a fellow runner this past weekend. She mentioned that beyond the health benefits, one of the reasons she joined a running group was that it gave her the motivation and inspiration to keep going through a particularly difficult time in her life. Her words spoke to me. The past couple of years have been particularly challenging. I've only make it through because I've kept running. Not running scares the crap out of me!

First it was the 'Age Thing'. It's taken a while but I've finally accepting that I really am 55. Now when I see myself in pictures I don't wince at the image of the 'Old Guy'. Well, not much anyway.

Then there's been the challenge of transitioning to career #3. "Morales the Recruiter" has been a natural transition and I wish I had started sooner. I am not a patient person though so when the business hasn't progressed as fast as I've wanted it to, I've been frustrated. Every day though I remind myself that as long as I keep moving I'm a winner.

Then I had the ultimate scare with the broken foot last September: what if I can never run again? Seemed real at the time but I kept at it. I swam for 3 months then as soon as I could I started walking. Now that I'm back to running 3 - 4 days each week I can't believe how silly the thought of not running was. I'm looking forward to my first race, the Sporting Life 10K on May 12. I'll be running it with two of my boys. They'll leave me in their dust but I'll be in the race.

"Just keep moving!" I know it sounds cliche and maybe it is. I am sure though that as long as I keep moving life with be OK! Thanks for the reminder Lisa.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy
++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My planned races in 2013 include:

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

Running in the Dark

2013-03-19T06:29:00.001-04:00

I don't like Daylight Savings Time. "Spring ahead, fall back". I can never get it right. Like most others, I sleep terribly for a couple of days after the bi-annual time change. Last weekend we had the Spring Ritual of 'spring ahead' when we moved the clocks ahead. I was a marketing guy so I professionally appreciate the catchy description. But it doesn't mask the fact that after a all too brief few weeks of early morning runs in the soft morning light, I'm back to running in the dark.

There is some irony to me running in the dark as I start regular running again after recovering from my foot injury. That's how I started running many years ago (How it Started). But I'm not hiding from anyone now and like exchanging the 'Runner's Hand Flip' with other runners I meet. It's easier to do that when we can see each other.

I also hate being super vigilant in pre-dawn runs with vehicles. I always run facing traffic and mostly stay on the sidewalks. There is one stretch of road without sidewalks and even with the clearly delineated Bike Lane, cars and especially SUV's seem oblivious. And I have my Running Room Reflective Gear!

There is only one day of the year when running in the dark is actually fabulous: The first Saturday of December for the annual running of the Reggae Marathon. This year it's on December 7 and it will be my 5th consecutive time in Negril, Jamaica. The drumming, the torch lights, the crowds...all anxious to get started promptly at 5:15 am. And come to think of it, little Jamaica doesn't observe Daylight Savings Time!

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy
++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My planned races in 2013 include:

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

What do you think about when you run?

2013-03-12T05:22:00.001-04:00

Running for me is therapy. As much as running keeps my weight in check and my blood pressure normal, I live for those times when my mind goes totally free. Those days and experiences keep me running even when my spirit is weak.

Having said that, I've also found that while running while my mind is free, lots of things cross my mind. It's a cliche I know but I do solve all my problems while running. Sometimes I think about work-related challenges, other times it's family. Always it's a personal conversation in my head with no critics or judge.

So what do I think about while running? Here are some of the recurring topics:

What the hell am I doing with my life? I've just hit the double nickle, 55 and while running recently this has been a recurring theme: What I've done so far and what else I can do. Other than the odd 'Mistake' earlier in my life, I have generally been blessed with a fantastic life. Yes there have been setbacks but I've enjoyed great kids, fabulous wife, supportive family and friends. But what's next...
Will this be the day I no longer run? Over the past 3 years I've had some running injuries that for the first time in my 30 years of running have seriously threatened my ability to keep running. I like cycling, am a strong swimmer but I hate the thought of not running.
Do I look like a runner? True confession: I cannot pass a window or glass store-front and not sneak a look at my form. Most times I am disappointed...it looks like I'm shuffling not running. The feeling passes quickly though...I am running!
What's my next pair of running shoes? I am immediately disenchanted with my running shoes after my first run in a new pair. Talk about short-term love! I've had more success with the Puma Faas 500's that I ran in for a couple of years but generally I am always looking at new running shoes. Sally hates it that I can't pass a store selling running shoes without stopping in. Wait...make that any store selling shoes!
If I stop during a run was it a good run? Traffic lights and stop lights don't count. Most times because I'm running so early in the morning when traffic is light I don't stop. Shhh...don't tell anyone.

That's it, that's all. Truthfully though, I'm never sure what will pop into my mind when I head out for a run. That's why I run.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My planned races in 2013 include:

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

The Runner's Prayer

2013-03-05T05:10:00.002-05:00

My sister Ginette sent me this on my 55th birthday last Friday and I was moved to share it. A prayer for runners and a mention in the Bible!

O Lord, may I never just look as if I’m in the race – the race you have set before me.Instead, let me be running with all my heart. And may I never allow myself to be detoured by the difficulties of life. Amen

“Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” Hebrews 12:1

The photo above features me with Larry Savitch on the left and Dan Cumming on the right. It was taken after we completed our various Reggae Marathon events last December in Jamaica. Runners...Friends...Uncomplicated. I pray for more friends like that.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My planned races in 2013 include:

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

Reggae Marathon 2012 was Special!

2013-02-26T05:19:00.003-05:00

I almost cracked open a bottle of champagne last Sunday. The occasion? Four consecutive days of running since breaking my foot last September. And in really bad running conditions as well: super cold one day, sloppy conditions the next; clear sidewalk one morning, watch out for the black ice the next! One thing that has kept me motivated are the memories from last December's Reggae Marathon:

Don't let the gray hair fool you...I am still a 12 year old at heart. Just ask Sally! I still love running straight into the Caribbean fully dressed right after finishing. This year I remembered to take off my running shoes.

If there was ever a shot of a master at work this would be it. Sully, no one has ever consumed a fresh cut coconut with as much skill as you demonstrated in this photo from Reggae Marathon last December.

I have seen sunsets from Manhattan Beach in Los Angeles, Biarritz in the South of France and in Sydney, Australia. They are all fantastic in their own way and I know I have missed a number of others but the sunset from the Cliffs in Negril's West End is my favourite!

The 'After' shot. We're only missing Mark in this shot. He was still working on finishing his first half marathon. Brave sole...I hear he is training hard for the Mississauga Marathon this spring. Oh, and did you notice Andrew's shoes? He had a special 'Jamaica Colours' made just for Reggae Marathon. This year I'll get him to try Pumas.

Yes I'm back running. Taking it slowly for the rest of the winter with the goal of the Sporting Life 10K on May 12 as my first event. If all goes well, planning on the ending the year back at Reggae Marathon December 7 for my 5th consecutive race event! Where did those 5 years go?

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My planned races in 2013 include:

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

Too cold for running outside?

2013-02-19T05:12:00.002-05:00

Some days it's really too cold for running!

A funny thing happened during my journey through injury and recovery these past 4 months: I don't like running in the cold any more! How did that happen?

Once upon a time I enjoyed even looked forward to running in ultra cold temperatures. Base layer, tights, windpants, toque and facemask made running not only tolerable but actually enjoyable. And I had some great cold weather runs including two favourites: Anchorage, Alaska and Regina, Saskatchewan.

I was in Anchorage 25 years ago shooting an advertisement for for my client, Isuzu Trucks. We hit upon the idea that if we showed how tough Isuzu Trucks were in a foreign environment then they would be more than good enough in Canada. It was a pretty good idea and it worked. It also meant a 10 day trip to Alaska in January to shoot the photography.

Now Alaska in January is cold! The temperatures weren't significantly below what we experience here in Toronto but the wind off the Bering Sea or North Pacific (take your pick) made the temperatures seem a lot colder. I didn't go out for a long run that morning in January but it sure was fun to run along the snow covered streets of downtown Anchorage at 9 am in the morning ... in the pitch black! In Alaska in January they only get 5 - 6 hours of sunlight each day with sunrise around 9:30 am and sunset at 3:30 pm. I learned about sunlight deprivation that trip.

My second memorable cold weather run happened in Regina, Saskatchewan about 15 years when I was on a business trip with Dairy Queen. This one was not as enjoyable. In fact it was downright scary.

I always ran early mornings on business trips. That's where 'That Running Guy' has it's roots: my colleagues would shout that out if they saw me heading out for a run. At 5 am that morning after donning all my running gear, I headed out from the downtown hotel for a short 6 K run. It was -40 Degrees Celsius! And to use the Prairie cliche, 'It was a dry cold'. I thought I was prepared. For the first 3 K things were OK. I didn't notice that the slight wind was at my back. It was only when I turned for the run back to my hotel that things started to go awry.

The wind in my face combined with the sweat started me shivering. "This is cold, really, really cold" I remember saying to myself. I started to slow down. For the first time in my running life, I felt scared. I knew that if I stopped running, things would get really bad. I kept shuffling along and managed to make it back to the hotel.

After I had recovered from that run and while watching the early morning TV news a bit later I learned that with the wind chill, the effective temperature was around -60 degrees C. Yikes! It's no fun freezing to death running!

I've never run again in Regina conditions. And recently I've found that even -10 degrees Celsius is uncomfortable. Age, stage...some days it really is too cold for running!

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My planned races in 2013 include:

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

My Top 10 Life Lessons Learned from Running

2013-02-12T05:37:00.002-05:00

I love reading lists. Especially the ones I create. :)

Like just about everyone I know, reading the 'Top 10' or 'Top 7' lists is appealing. Since last September when I injured my foot and I've been walking not running, I've had some time to think about the things I've learned about life from running. In this case, not running. Enjoy:

#10. Life is life! What I'm doing today is important. I'm not practicing for the future. Today is all I have. I've got to live it completely and thoroughly.

#9. Sometime it rains. And I am going to get wet. So what? Clothes and skin dries so I might as well get out there and enjoy it. It will be sunny again.

#8. You will loose your way. Unlike Sisyphus who did the same thing over and over again, I hate repeating myself. I've learned that I never learn anything new without trying something new. And sometimes I get lost...dammed if I don't experience some fun things though.

#7. People will help you...if you ask. If you have some idea of where you want to go, stop and ask for help in getting there. Good people are eager to help.

#6. Breathe. As a runner that's why I'm outside in the first place: to get a breath of fresh air.

#5. 'ABL'...'Always Be Learning'. Ask a lot of questions especially when I don't know the answer. I've found that until I fully understand something I don't sleep well at night.

#4. Get up early! Forget the 'early bird gets the worm...I hate worms...and fishing. I get up early to get a head start on the day...and on life.

#3. Listen. Then listen some more. I find it easy to give unsolicited advice. Especially when I've made up my mind before I've heard the entire situation. Life is so much better when I take the time to listen completely (I wouldn't have endured this silly foot injury if I'd truly listened to my body).

#2. Give Thanks Every Day! If you go to church each week that's great. Spend a few minutes every day giving thanks that you woke up!

#1. Go Running! I'm a runner. Have been for over 30 years. If you don't run, go for a walk, a bike ride or a swim. It doesn't matter, just get out there.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

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I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31. My planned races in 2013 include:

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

Stop Whining!

2013-02-05T05:27:00.000-05:00

Thanks Ah-nold! I needed that!! Oh, and maybe, just maybe Sally might have mentioned the same thing...once or twice...OK, maybe a lot! But I broke my foot! Waaaaaaa......

There...that feels much better!

I haven't run since I broke my foot last September. I've tried once or twice in the last few weeks but another injury sidelined me. In my desire to be a hero I walked 10K in Reggae Marathon in December. It made for a nice story, I got to take some pictures while I was 'Walking' and I hit my goal of raising $2,000 for the Heart & Stroke Foundation. Walking the 10 kilometres in Reggae Marathon likely contributed to the new injury so that's why I'm still whining.

"I haven't run since last September...!!"

If you don't run that won't make any sense to you. If you run you feel my pain. So what to do.

First, "Stop Whining!". Easier said than done. I've been running 30 years now. Nearly everybody has said the same thing, "Maybe it's time to stop running". Might as well tell me to stop breathing.

But then it hit me: Walking! Duh! I can't run but I can walk. And yes I know the cliche, 'walk before you run'. Flashback: that's how I started running in the first place.

So I promise, the whining is over! Sally will be so happy to hear that.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

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I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December. My planned races in 2013 include

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

I'm having 'One of those days'

2013-01-29T05:21:00.000-05:00

Super early in the morning on my way to work!

The only positive thing that happened to me today was that the lady on the Subway that I offered my seat to said 'Thank You". Most times all I get is a surly look.

Yes, I'm having one of those days. You know, the "low energy, unmotivated, I'd rather be in bed" kind of day. I can't even get myself motivated to go for a run!

It may be the time of year: January blahs. It certainly is the weather: +10 C one day, -16 C the next.

Winter, MAKE UP YOUR MIND!

Amidst this darkness is a bright light (no, not a train). It's a race of course, the Sporting Life 10K on May 12. Court suggested it and as the word spreads, the other kids may join in. It's a lovely point-to-point race that's run straight down Yonge Street in Toronto. Downhill for most of the way with a flat finish. I figure even if I'm not fully back to speed by then, gravity will help.

So with that to look forward to I'll borrow a phrase from Arnold, "Enough Whining"!

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

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I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December. My planned races in 2013 include

The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
The Reggae Marathon, December 7.

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

Oops...a little running setback

2013-01-22T05:00:00.000-05:00

I blame this one on the foot cast! Placing the blame on the the medical device that got me through the fractured foot bones seems unfair I know. But it beats the real reason: I went out too quickly to resume running resulting in a bad muscle pull in my right calf. Truth be told: I'm pretty sure I tore the muscle. I know that's not the correct medical term and NO I'm not going to a doctor! The immediate plan is to refrain from running for the next couple of weeks to allow it to heal properly before I get back to running...slowly!

As Sally so kindly reminded me recently, "You're not 35 anymore". Based on that obvious fact, I'm going back to basics with my running. A lot of the injuries I've experienced over the past few years come down to bad form. OK, maybe there was a 'wee little bit of ' stupidity since I'm really not 35 years old anymore. But I am 'learnable' and now seems like a good time to get back to the basics.

I saw this chart recently on the Reggae Marathon Facebook Fan Page. If you're a long-time runner like my friend Dan Cumming of Running in the Zone (check out this great article on Running Injury: Doctor it hurts when I do this) you already know what good running form is. If you're just starting out, this could be the most simple and best explanation of proper running form. I fall in to the 'long-time running group who never payed attention but got totally excited by this chart.

"Stand up straight". I can still hear those words from my Grandmother when I would slouch my shoulders. It's the key to good form in running. Duh! My Grandmother wouldn't say 'Duh' but she'd smile of hers while asking me what took me so long. I wouldn't have a good answer.

So assuming all goes well, here's the next target: the Sporting Life 10K on May 12 in Toronto. Court, one of my sons, suggested it and it seems like a good idea. 10K races how I started running way back (when I really was age 35) and this is a point-to-point race down Yonge Street in Toronto. Mostly downhill with a flat finish. And it starts early...my favourite time of day. We won't officially have cold Red Stripes immediately at the finish like Reggae Marathon but unofficially...

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

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I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December.
My planned races in 2013 include the Sporting Life 10K May 12, the Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20 and the Reggae Marathon, December 7. Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

Photos from my Reggae Marathon 'Walkabout'

2013-01-15T04:23:00.002-05:00

Ossies Jerk Centre was open again on Washington Manley Boulevard in Negril last December! And it was ... GREAT!

Sally and experienced Ossies on our first trip to Negril for Reggae Marathon back in 2009. An open air 'shack' just off the road that served the best Jerk Pork and Jerk Chicken I've had in many years. Perfectly seasoned: not too hot, nice jerk seasoning. Add some Festival, Rice and Peas and a cold Red Stripe. Can you say "Perfectly Delicious".

Two of the four in this shot actually have real smiles at being up at 4:30 am on a Saturday morning in our running gear ready to run Reggae Marathon. Can you guess which two?

Debbie of Washington, DC, wife of good Reggae Marathon friend Bob Moore had this saying on her running shirt. Beer, rum...run...rum, beer! Add 'Beach' and Reggae Marathon could be the perfect vacation for a runner.

We met online, connected for the first time at Reggae Marathon 2011. Last December at Reggae Marathon 2012 we had the chance to spend some 'quality time' together. Both above after the race and again on the beach when we shared 'tall tales' and a few cold beers on the Negril beach. Good times...great friendship!

Until next time...

ThatRunninGuy

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I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December. My planned races are the Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20 and the Reggae Marathon, December 7. Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

1st run of 2013 and since the Foot Injury!

2013-01-08T05:04:00.002-05:00

Early morning Winter running in Toronto

I had my first run this past Sunday morning. It felt great! True confession: I had been out running before Christmas but that was more walking and shuffling than real running. This past Sunday I went out for a full 30 minutes of ... running!

I am of course an early morning runner. I am up before dawn and generally run entirely in the dark. If I see another person, it's usually a runner. For sure the 5:15 am start of Reggae Marathon every December suits me.

One of the benefits of running so early in the morning is the quiet and serenity. Few people are up and it feels like I own the neighbourhood. The picture above is of one of the quiet residential streets I run along on one of my routes.

A serious downside though are early morning drivers. Most are not fully awake or are on their first coffee and are totally unprepared for a runner that early in the morning. I've usually run in entirely black running gear. Lots of reflective strips and patches of course but not the most visible in the dark. I had a scare last Sunday that motivated me to buy some new gear and I know that motivated me to get through that first run comfortably. I picked up the new top and tights from the Running Room Outlet Store on North Queen Street in Etobicoke. They don't carry everything from their regular stores, and not all sizes are available but it's worth the trip: top and tights for under $80 tax in! Retail for the two pieces is over $140 + tax!

On that first full run last Sunday I was taken back to my first runs 30 years ago. I wasn't running fast and it didn't look pretty but I was running! Mind free while my arms were swinging. I may even have broken out in a song...I don't remember...I was too busy enjoying the run.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

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I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013. My goal is to raise $2,000 by December. My planned races are the Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20 and the Reggae Marathon, December 7. Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

Happy New Year from ThatRunninGuy!

2013-01-01T06:09:00.002-05:00

2012 was one heck of a tumultuous year for me. And not a lot of pleasurable running though not for a lack of trying. But it's January 1, 2013 today, the start of a new year so all things are possible.

For me, the trials of 2012 opened up new opportunities. First there was the job loss in March. Not much of a surprise actually but still a shock to the system. I didn't spend much time crying over the spilt milk.

Then in May in what was supposed to be a triumphant sprint across the finish line in the Goodlife Toronto 1/2 Marathon in a sub-2 hour time, I ended up hobbling for much of the second half of the race with a pulled muscle in my right calf. Two upsides: first, I still managed a Personal Best of 2 hours 4 minutes in the race. And second, I had my first podium finish in the Reggae Runners Half Marathon Challenge. Yes I came in 3rd in a 3 man race but it's still on the podium!

September started out a good month but quickly turned sour when I fractured 3 bones in my right foot. Self inflicted unfortunately when I tried to replicate a sprint workout on pavement. I learned the hard lesson (no pun intended) that concrete is waaaaaay harder than the dirt track I had been working out on. I was out of the Scotiabank Half Marathon in October and it was touch and go for the Reggae Marathon in December. With walking cast securely in place I did manage to finish the Reggae Marathon 10K walking the entire way. The upside of not running was that I got to do something I don't normally get to do when I'm running: take pictures! And I shot a few! This young man was a volunteer at the Aid Station at Mile 4. He had his 'AutoBoxCar' booming Reggae LOUD while he handed out water and Hy-Lite in the cool plastic pouches. This is what makes Reggae Marathon really special. Check this link for more photos from my Reggae Marathon 2012 Walkabout.

Through all the ups and downs Sally and all the boys have been with me every step of the way. Always loving and supporting even though they sometimes scratch their heads in confusion when they hear some of the nutty things that come out of my mouth on occasion. Thank you all!

And now here we are at the start of the new year, 2013. Just one resolution for this upcoming year: enjoy the moment! I can't change the past nor predict the future. This year I plan to appreciate the now!

Until next time
ThatRunninGuy

Reggae Marathon 2012 Walkabout, Part 2

2012-12-18T04:47:00.000-05:00

Elvis has left the building and is now living comfortably in Negril. He chows down on Jerk Pork and Jerk Chicken and washes it all down with cold Red Stripe.

OK, I made that all up but the Elvis sign on the side of the road as we approached a Reggae Marathon Aid Station at the 4 mile mark caught my eye. Man I had too much time on my hands walking the Reggae Marathon 10K.

Reggae Marathon is one of the few (only) race events that have Aid Stations at every mile. Did I mention that they also have unique Jamaican Character?

Notice in the background the car with the speakers on top. The car belonged to this young volunteer. He was waving the flag, handing out water and Hi-Lyte and playing LOUD Reggae music. And I do mean LOUD! And this was just after 6 am in the morning.

Each Aid Station on the entire course is set up the same way.

I caught this shot of Reggae Marathon 4 time winner Rupert Green on his way to another victory. I was lying down on the road shooting when I caught the attention of a race volunteer who wanted to know if I was all right. It took a couple of minutes to assure her that I was...even my media badge didn't convince her. Maybe it was the cast on my foot. She watched me hobble away and I'm convinced she was only moments away from calling for help.

I did say there was music along the Reggae Marathon Course right? Well here right along the route near the finish line at Long Bay Beach Park was the Silverbird Steel Band Orchestra performing. This band performs every year at the Reggae Marathon Pasta Party Friday night and they put on a great show again this past December. Here they are at around 6:30 am bringing us home...well, at least those of us doing the 10K.

It's been 4 consecutive years attending Reggae Marathon in Negril. I've run the full marathon, the half marathon and the 10 K (twice). It's a long way to go to get to Negril each December but once there it's truly a magical experience. See you again December 7, 2013...

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

Reggae Marathon 2012 Walkabout, Part 1

2012-12-11T04:58:00.000-05:00

The Boot

The Boot loved the beach in Negril last week. It didn't need sunscreen at all, didn't offer any conversation and was a cheap date at the bar and restaurant. The Boot enjoyed itself so much that it didn't want to come home. I think it was looking for a hookup on the beach.

I was sorely tempted to let The Boot stay behind and enjoy itself in Jamaica. My foot had recovered...The Boot had done its's job. but then I remembered how much I paid for it! Welcome home!

Reggae Marathon Media Briefing

For some reason the Reggae Marathon organizers ask me to speak at the media briefing every year. After blogging here and on the Reggae Marathon blog for the past two years, I'm never sure what else I can add about running and Reggae Marathon. Especially when the audience are 'The Media'. But there I was last Friday night during the Reggae Marathon Media Briefing sharing the social media experiences over the past year. And there were some significant ones:

Reggae Marathon basically 'doubled up' on all social media channels over the past year: Facebook, Twitter and of course the Reggae Marathon blog
The Reggae Marathon experience at the Boston Marathon Race Expo was HUGE: Usain Bolt re-tweeted a blog post! Massive response!
The Olympic games in London. Between the Usain Bolt story, PumaYard (Puma in London) and Reggae Marathon Race Director, Frano, fans enjoyed themselves online. Olympic withdrawal for sure in 2013!

Court, Chris, Andrew, Dan. Reggae Marathon 2012

All we were missing was Holden at Reggae Marathon 2012! Holden says he doesn't run but he has a year to train!

Here are the boys at 4:45 am at Long Bay Beach Park in Negril with our friend, Dan Cumming (of Running in the Zone fame). Dan and I sure that the only time Court and Andrew see 4:45 am is when coming home from a late night of weekend partying. Dan, Court and Andrew burned up the Reggae Marathon 1/2 Marathon course. I think we'll all be back for 2013??

Negril River at Sunrise

The big advantage of walking the Reggae Marathon 10K was that I got to take pictures while an the course. So I did!

This picture was taken at 6 am. It's of the Negril River just after passing the round-a-bout in Negril at around the 3 mile mark of the course I stopped on the bridge to shoot a Negril sunrise photo. I've got lots of pictures of the sunsets in Negril...who doesn't...but this is my first sunrise picture. Hmmm...looks like a selection on my Facebook page in the near future.

More stories and photos to come from my 2012 Reggae Marathon Walkabout experience.

Until next time
ThatRunninGuy

Reggae Marathon 2012: Got 'er dun!

2012-12-04T04:20:00.001-05:00

Borrowing a phrase from the Summer Olympics, 'Go haad an dun", I 'got 'er dun' last Saturday at Reggae Marathon. After worrying about making it through the entire 10K with the walking cast on my right foot, my only worry turned out to be not stopping every few meters to shoot a few pictures. Usually I'm intent on finishing with a target time but this year I had no such concerns since I was walking. The goal was to finish...couldn't let the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario down. Plus, I wanted the 4th in a row Reggae Marathon Finisher's Medal.

At Reggae Marathon again this year Mother Nature continued her string of good weather. In fact, Saturday morning last week dawned quite cool with no humidity. 'Cool' of course in Negril, Jamaica is a relative thing but it sure was a major relief after my first time at Reggae Marathon 2009 when overnight rain resulted in a higher degree of humidity. The only humidity this year was the mandatory drenching in the Caribbean after successfully completing the run.

The Puma Faas 300's were retired last Saturday as well. Yes, these were the shoes that were there for the foot injury. I figured it was only fitting that they they be there for the successful completing of Reggae Marathon 2012. Of course we had to enjoy a complimentary Red Stripe before 'retirement'. If you have to ask, "Red Stripe taste good" after Reggae Marathon.

It's been 2 1/2 months since my last run and you know what...it's been good! 30 years is a long time to run every day and be relatively injury free. I am very fortunate. These last two years of foot problems culminating in the stress fractures came at the right time. I'll be back to running of course but it will be very different. Competing with my younger self is now a thing of the past...I have a few more grey hairs after all! It won't be for a few more weeks...I really do want to ensure that my foot has healed fully before I head out for my first post-injury run. But you know what...I'm looking forward to it!

'Got 'er dun!'

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

I'm on the Rock for Reggae Marathon!

2012-11-27T14:32:00.003-05:00

The American Airlines flight touches down at 3:40 pm on Wednesday in Montego Bay. On time and on schedule I hope depositing me back on the Rock for my 4th straight Reggae Marathon event.

While they've all been special, this year has an extra special twist. I'm 'running' (walking fast actually) in the Reggae Marathon 10K event with a walking cast on my right foot. I'm really not sure how I'll make out this Saturday morning but I promise I'll cross the finish line. I made a commitment earlier this year to raise $2,000 for the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario and I never let the side down.

And it's 'super personal' this year! My cousin's husband had a heart procedure completed successfully recently to replace a heart valve that had stopped working. It was congenital and he'd been living with less and less oxygen intake for the past few years. Sally and I have had multiple family members felled by heart disease and stroke so it was great to see my cousin come through successfully. This Reggae Marathon is for you this year Andy.

I still need a few dollars to make it to this year's fund raising goal. Please donate here securely: Run for Heart 2012 Donation.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

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Follow me on Facebook at Run for Heart. Race for 2012: Reggae Marathon, December 1.