Mountain Running - Mt. Walker

Just got back from running up Mt Walker. The trailhead starts at 800 ft and climbs to 2800 feet in two miles. There was snow on the trail starting at about 2000 ft. As usual, Dose Wallips, our German Shorthaired Pointer was leading the way and loving every minute of the run.

It was so cold and rainy/snowy at the top that I didn't waste any time heading back down. It was hilarious watching my dog skid uncontrollably around the switchbacks, not once going completely off trail. One thing that strikes me is how natural dogs are running through trails. I find myself watching her trying to mimic her light springy steps and fluid motion. So far, not much luck in that department.

While I enjoy running in the snow, I am really looking forward to hitting the trails on a nice, sunny, Pacific Northwest day. ....yes, it is true, we do get nice sunny days in the Northwest. I will post some pics this spring and summer to prove it.

Hansville Greenway - Buck Lake

The Hansville Greenway is a great place to hit the trails. This morning I went with my German Shorthaired Pointer for her regular morning jaunt. The new surroundings and fresh scents were of particular interest to her, as we usually stay in the same section of wilderness near my house. Click here for a trail map of the areas.

We went for about 4 miles today and I am feeling like I am getting my legs back after running the New York City Marathon. I will start training officially for the Eugene Marathon on January 4th. That will give me about 17 weeks of training to try for a Boston Qualifier. I plan on running 3:15 in Eugene. That would be a PR by about 7 minutes or so....think positive!

I highly recommend the Hansville Greenway for trail running, especially if the hills tend to scare you away...the hills are gentle for the most part starting out at Buck Lake, with beautiful views of the water from several different spots. Hansville is about ten minutes north of Kingston, WA.

Hope to do some snow running within the next week or so...plan on running up Mt Walker and back down on the fire road with the snow shoes....good for about 2000 feet of elevation gain on the way up...hope to blog about the run within a few days. Happy Trails!

New York City Marathon

Last Sunday I ran the New York City Marathon. This was truly one of the most fantastic sporting events in which I have every participated. Not only was the run incredible, our visit was a blast. I had never been to New York City before and the bright lights didn't disappoint.

The training leading up to the marathon was going quite well for me and I was on pace in my training to give 3:20 a shot, which is a Boston Qualifier time for my age. Unfortunately a problem I have been having with my IT band didn't allow me to run over 18 miles in my preparation. Two of my longer runs ended up with me having to walk the last few miles home. Needless to say, I adjusted my goal for the race.

On race day I decided that 3:30 was within reason. I went out in 1:44 for the first half and finished in 3:34:58. While this was 13 minutes or so off of my best time, it was one of my proudest efforts. My body felt creaky the entire time and I felt like I was plodding along the whole way. I took the opportunity to really see and take in the vibe of the 2.5 million spectators lining the city streets. I found myself relaxed and enjoying myself more than I ever have in a race. I am wondering how I can bottle that feeling and uncork it when I am going for a personal best.

This was my fourth marathon. After the first three, I wasn't all that interested in signing up for another. This time I cannot wait. I plan on running the Eugene Marathon on May 1st. I will qualify for the Boston Marathon that day...how is that for positive thinking?! Goal Pace: 3:15....After that, my wife and I may run Pikes Peak in August. Let the fun begin!

Times Square two nights before the marathon





Staten Island around 5:45 a.m., waiting for a 9:40 a.m. start in 38 degree weather!





Participants attempting to stay warm in one of the several tents set up in the waiting area



Marathon Training - Running Long on the Pavement

Last weekend I ran the Duckabush River Trail 8 miles out and 8 miles back with a friend. The run took 3 hours and the terrain was rolling single track with some serious switchback climbing at the beginning. As we were finishing our run, I made the statement that since we were out running a tough 16 mile route, it should count for a twenty miler in my marathon training! Running the same effort for three hours on the road would have been at least 20 miles.

I am off soon to test that theory. I am hoping to hit 20 miles on the road this morning. I am sitting here drinking coffee and blogging instead of running because I don't feel like running in the dark today. Also, I am a bit hesitant to hit 20 miles on the road...in looking at my log I noticed over my last 60 runs, only three of them have been on the road. Since I am running the New York City Marathon in a few weeks, I think it is probably a good idea to get some time on the pavement today.

Check out this interesting article: The Myth of the 20 Mile Long Run I have read similar articles before. It asks you to consider the cost benefit of running 20 miles long runs if your weekly mileage is less than 50 miles per week. I have found that even running 40 mile weeks, I benefit psychologically from running a few 20 milers before a marathon. However, the article has its merit...I just haven't found the time or energy to get my miles up to 70 miles per week, yet I still have the desire to hit a few 20 milers in my marathon prep.

Okay, time to get hydrated and hit the road for a solo 20....

Roots, Rock, Trail Series - Port Gamble Half Marathon

The Port Gamble Half Marathon was the final event for those looking to collect points in Poulsbo Running's Roots, Rock Trail Series. There were about 100 people running this fantastic event through the trails that run between Port Gamble and Poulsbo, WA. After the event was a post race barbecue, beverages, and an awards ceremony. Finally, as is usually the case, the Poulsbo Running Store gave away a ton of gear in their customary raffle. All in all, the race series has an excellent vibe with a relaxed attitude. All race proceeds go to local cross-country teams and the North Kitsap Trails Association.

I enjoyed most of the race, especially the last 7 miles or so. The first half was a bit painful, as I was having some stomach distress. The last 6 were great. Lots of downhill running, which I happen to love to do. The best part of the series for me is the fact that it gets the old competitive juices flowing. With about 5 miles to go, I caught another guy that I recognized in the 40-49 year old age group and I was assuming he and I would be duking it out for third place honors. I was correct...we chatted for awhile and with about a mile to go I decided to pick up the pace for about 200 yards to see if he would come with me. I realized after about 201 yards that this may have been a mistake as I was starting to feel concrete filling my legs. Thankfully I had just enough to continue for a strong finish and a placing in my age group.

This brings me to my next thought...as this blog entry is turning into a veritable, rambling mess. Sometimes in road races, trail races, and other racing events I settle into a pace and may even start having a brief chat with someone. This has happened to me in my last several races. Each time, in my mind, there comes a point where you can keep talking or start racing. Is it rude to stop talking and surge? I know I never feel bad if someone takes off, sometimes I am actually relieved if I am having trouble talking and staying up with the person at the same time. However, I know that everyone joins events for different reasons. Some are content with running, relaxing, and enjoying the surroundings, without really thinking about racing. I tend to vacillate between racing or relaxing. I need to make the transition to racing AND relaxing. It shouldn't be "either" or "or", it should be the genius of "and"! Anyhow, enough rambling. I will just go with the notion that people are really out there just doing there own thing for the most part and that is okay with me! Can you tell I have had one too many cups of coffee this morning...okay off for a long run!

Red Mountain Run

View of the Yakima River from the top of Red Mountain

My wife and I were visiting some friends in the Yakima Valley a few weeks ago and we took the opportunity to run up to the top of Red Mountain while we were there. Red Mountain is somewhat of a misnomer, as when I think of a mountain I think of something with a bit more elevation. Red Mountain ranges anywhere from 500 to 1500 feet. Nonetheless, it was a tough climb with spectacular views.

We ran up the mountain twice in two days. I also walked to the top with my son, Sloan and our new dog, Dose Wallips. Dose sprinted up to the top while turning around periodically with a silly look on her face. She seemed to be telling us to hurry up, but we were going as fast as we could.

We have done many cool things this summer, but spending that 60 minutes or so with my son was certainly a highlight. Sometimes it is the simplest things that can have the biggest impact. Looking forward to many more hikes and runs with Michelle and our kids. I hope they continue to see the wonders in nature as I do each and every day.

Something tells me Dose likes to run.

Dose after trying to dig up a beetle with her snout.

Sloan trying to stay up with Dose up the trail.

The sun setting on our way down.

My son and our dog contemplating the jaunt back down the mountain.

Looking forward to many more trail runs and hikes together.

Dose ready for a long nap after the mountain run.

Brooks ID Program

Okay, I will admit it, I am a Brooks fanatic. I have owned 4 pair of the GTS series (click here for a photo history of the GTS) and 3 pair of the Brooks Cascadia Trail Running shoes (favorite pair being the bumble bee yellow and black). I love their light and airy race singlets as well as their shorts. As long as they are making the Cascadia, I will buy the latest version. I buy shoes and clothing from other companies, but I generally go back to Brooks. For this reason, I am considering applying for the Brooks ID program.

The following was taken from the Brooks ID web site:

Brooks I.D. Program

Brooks I.D. stands for Inspire Daily. These two simple words guide the principles of the program. Brooks I.D. is made up of over 800 members who are active in their running communities and share a passion for the Brooks brand. They are runners who are winners in their own right: Winning their age divisions, accomplishing their personal goals, pushing their own limits, and, by extension, encouraging others to do the same. They are coaches, mentors, and leaders.

I.D. Member Benefits

All Brooks I.D. athletes enjoy 40% off purchases made at brooksrunning.com and are invited to connect with other members at Brooks-sponsored events nationwide. Members who exert an unusual level of influence in the running community also receive a complimentary product package. All I.D. members also receive a monthly newsletter highlighting new products and I.D. member achievements.

What We Look for

Brooks I.D. athletes members use their athletic talent to help carry out the Brooks mission: To inspire people to run and be active. We look for athletes who have a passion for Brooks, race and train in Brooks' shoes and apparel, and enthusiastically evangelize the brand.

(this is where my commentary kicks in...)

While it is tempting to apply, it is still nice to have the freedom to wear other brands. However, my track record shows that I go back to Brooks anyways! So I may go for it. If so, and if I am accepted, I will share something out to the blogosphere.

RUN HAPPY!