Our fundraising efforts have finally come to a conclusion. After almost seven months of exhaustive training, mailing letters, and planning for any outcome imaginable...we have raised $4,072! I am extremely moved by everyone's dedication and warmth in helping with this cause. Between people showing up for Crawfish for Cancer, getting in touch with everyone on their mailng lists, pouring over details and scenerios for endless hours with me, and then also to those poor souls that went on training runs for hours on end to keep me company...the overall turn out was tremendous. I thank you all. Your efforts helped put a dent in the cancer front, but you also helped me glorify the memory of my Aunt Kathleen.
So, what's next?
Well, that's a loaded question. I'd like to finish the remaining 58 miles, but that may have to wait until after summer (it's just too hot in south Louisiana). In October I return to Quantico, VA to continue training as a Second Lt. with the USMC. In the more immediate future I hope to knock out as many races and triathlons as manageable. This coming weekend, Dave and I will travel to Lubbock, TX where I'll participate in my first Half-Ironman. In the future I'd like to do more ultra-marathons. I'm hopeful that it may one day be an olympic sport, but until then I plan on eventually doing the Badwater Ultra (135 miles through Death Valley) and doing the Western States 100 in California. I may even do a little fundraising along the way too (as that tends to be my style). My sister and I were contemplating doing the 100 Pound Challenge. This would be a timed event where I would see how long it took me to gain 100 lbs. and then turn around and lose it. I may save that one as the last physical feat of my life.
Thank you again to everyone who helped in any way. It meant a hell of a lot.
Run Hard
Brady Hendrix
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Monday, April 28, 2008
Vaso-vagal Syncope
After I got home from the run and had rested for awhile I began checking stuff out on the web. Pat sent me a link to a site that pretty much describes what happened to me on the run. Vaso-vagal syncope is what brought me to my knees (literally).When you stop physical exertion on the body, your blood psi drops slightly. However, when I sat on the edge of the truck bed, I further stopped the blood from coming up from my feet to my head as my knees were on the edge. This caused my BP to shoot down and the response known as the Vaso-vagal syncope. When I stood up to vomit, everything went to hell and my head was suddenly not getting the blood it needed...so I passed out, twice.
Now normally this wouldn't be such a big deal. I could rest for a few and then bounce back relatively quickly. However, I had just run 42 miles, vomited twice, and was losing my vision (also a product of low BP). I was spent.
So, yes, I'm irritated. The finish line was completely within my grasp. The athlete/perfectionist in me is very upset and I feel like a huge let down. I know, I know..."Brady, you ran 42 miles and raised a boat-load of $$ for Relay for Life. You won." I'm still not satisfied, though.
Big Dave broke it down for me later that night. He said that you have to remember how significant 42 miles is. If you were talking to some average Joe and told him that you passed out after 42, his response would be, "Well, duh, of course you passed out. You ran 42 miles!" I then had to remind him that he and I rarely associate with just average Joe's. I never really approached this as a 100 miler, it was just "the next race" and I lost. Worse, I logged a DNF.
I'm taking it in stride. Yesterday was very emotional, tears were involved, but I'm getting there. Part of the recouping process is planning on finishing the run. Hairy details are still uncertain, but I want to run the final 58 miles, probably here in Baton Rouge. This won't be for any benefit to RFL, just for my own closure and for my aunt. Keep checking back, I'll keep you posted.
Run hard.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Bittersweet
100 Miles or bust...bust.
Ali and I left for Natchez around 12 on Friday. After catching the tail end of the captain's meeting for Relay for Life, we headed to the hotel for a few hours rest before I began running.
I caught about an hour and a half of sleep before I woke myself up with butterflies in my stomach. I tried to mellow out with my iPod, but the weight of the feat ahead of me was fully on my shoulders. When we finally all met up at the head of the Trace, my spirits were slightly higher as we began running.
Ali had the first shift paralleling me on the bike and soon Pat showed up and he too ran with me. The beginning of the run was very surreal. It was hard to believe that it was actually starting. All the work and effort was culminating to this day.
For the first 32 miles I was having trouble getting into a groove. I never felt like my pace was completely dialed in and I was tired and forcing myself through wall after wall. I was very nervous and scared that maybe things weren't going to come to fruition like I had planned. I was also fighting the urge to vomit.
After mile 32 we began making scheduled stops every 5 miles. I would catch up with the chase vehicle and eat, change shoes and socks, whatever I needed. Now I was cooking with gas. I was feeling great. My spirits were soaring, I was moving at a steady clip that I felt in control of, and any discomfort in my stomach or legs was bearable.
True trouble reared its ugly head at mile 42. Pat went ahead of me to get things ready at the chase car so I wouldn't have to stop for long. When I caught up I sat on the back the truck to rest and eat, but had an incredible urge to vomit. I stood up to walk away and vomit, but didn't make it far. I passed out and hit the ground hard. I vaguely remember being helped back to the truck, but never really came around until a few minutes later. I was sitting on the ground and couldn't remember how I got there. My team looked calm and collective (I later learned they were quite nervous), but I was freaking out. I was remarkably incoherent.
They got me back on the truck where I promptly began throwing up. Then something very odd happened. We would figure out later that it was because of a drop in my blood pressure, but I was beginning to go blind. I couldn't see the people around me or the truck I was sitting on. Pat looked at me, very nervously, and said that he was about this close from taking me into the emergency room. I was terrified.
I ended up crawling into the back of the truck and sleeping for about two hours to see if I could regain any energy and clear my head. When I woke up at dawn my head was clearer and I did feel rested, but it was clear that I didn't have the energy I needed. In addition to everything else, vomiting had cleared my stomach of valuable nutrition. The race was over.
I'm irritated, obviously, that I didn't finish. However, there are a few things to take into consideration. First, it was never about the run. It was about raising money for the American Cancer Society (we are close to $5,000). Second, stopping was the right and safe thing to do. I had pushed through wall after wall, but this wasn't a wall. It was my body hitting the 'reset' button. Finally, not finishing was not a product of not being in shape. If I hadn't been in shape, I probably would have gradually declined until I was too tired to move. That didn't happen. I was strong right up to a certain point. Something triggered in my body and began shutting systems down. I was ready. Sometimes, there are just things beyond your control. I honestly believe that's what happened this day.
It sucks, but we did what we came to do...raise money and cancer awareness. A final thought, lets not assume that I'm finished with this challenge just yet. I am contemplating a final scenario, but still need to think about it and discuss it with the rest of the team. I'll write again later. I have many more thoughts about this run and want to share them all.
Run hard.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Game Day, Not Nervous
We are about nine hours from the gun going off later today. Still not nervous, actually just tired. I'll take it pretty easy today and try to stay off my feet as much as possible.
Ali and I are leaving around 11-ish for Vidalia where we'll try to catch the tail end of a Relay for Life captain's meeting. Then once in Natchez we'll start setting things up. People and team members will begin to arrive, I'll need to get changed and do some interviews, and then the gun will go off. I'm ready.
The weather is going to be interesting. Right now there are extremely dark clouds in the sky. Hope they blow over or at least hold out. Either way, I'm glad this day is here. It's really a relief to have this thing almost over. All the emotion and physical stress has been a crazy trip...and I'm glad that we're all finally seeing this to it's finalé. I'm also glad I'll be surrounded by my friends and people close to my heart. It couldn't happen without them.
God bless and pray for us.
Run hard.
(in memory of KB)
Ali and I are leaving around 11-ish for Vidalia where we'll try to catch the tail end of a Relay for Life captain's meeting. Then once in Natchez we'll start setting things up. People and team members will begin to arrive, I'll need to get changed and do some interviews, and then the gun will go off. I'm ready.
The weather is going to be interesting. Right now there are extremely dark clouds in the sky. Hope they blow over or at least hold out. Either way, I'm glad this day is here. It's really a relief to have this thing almost over. All the emotion and physical stress has been a crazy trip...and I'm glad that we're all finally seeing this to it's finalé. I'm also glad I'll be surrounded by my friends and people close to my heart. It couldn't happen without them.
God bless and pray for us.
Run hard.
(in memory of KB)
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Ultraman Triathlon
“You remember that all difficult things come to an end. You focus on the ending, and then you can take anything.”- Dave Groggins, SO1 (SEAL Operation First Class)
Dave Groggins is probably one of the more elite extreme athletes in the world today. He's a triathlete, having done Ironman, but in 2006 he finished second overall in the Ultraman Triathlon. This event covers nearly twice that of Ironman (6.2 mile swim, 261.4 mile bike and 52.4 mile run). During the run he averaged sub-8:30 miles- for all 52 miles. Your jaw may have dropped reading those distances (mine too), but it's possible. Anything is possible. We're all capable of so much more than the limits we think we know.
His quote above is taken from an interview where he was discussing how he made it through the intense Navy SEAL training. I think those words are applicable to tomorrow. Definitely.
Run hard.
One Day
This morning I began worrying that I hadn't eaten enough this week. I'm sure that I have. I'm just experiencing last minute jitters. Today's schedule of events:- pack, then repack all gear
- grocery shop
- mark, fill water bottles
- sleep
- carb-load
- make sure the chase crew is where they need to be in their prep
- make a few email/phone calls to newspapers
I'm exhausted and am going to go jump back in bed in a moment. However, tomorrow is looking good in terms of being ready. I think it's odd that for so long this race was months and months away. Now it seems like all of a sudden it's right on top of me. I'm off to fall asleep watching Wayne's World. Party on Wayne.
Run hard.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Sleep
Sleep is the answer, I have discovered. Trying to stay busy without doing anything to strenuous is key. So after work, I hop on the computer for about an hour answering emails and putting together final plans. Then I pretty much lay around and watch TV or listen to music....mind numbing, really. However, I've recently discovered the joy that all high schoolers already know! Sleep!Any free time I have is spent curled up under the blankets asleep. It's great. I don't have to fill endless hours and I get much needed rest. It's beautiful.
We're less than three days from the gun going off. Of course, I'm not really counting down the days till the start. I'm counting the days that I've had to sit still and do nothing. Still not nervous yet, but I'm sure that'll come. Today I did a preliminary interview with The Natchez Democrat. They'll be there Friday when the gun goes off...so I'm excited about that.
I'm headed home tommorrow to begin some intense resting. Ali has already prep'd a list of movies that I get to sit back and watch. I may have to intersperse some of the Rocky movies, but all-in-all I'm looking forward to a very restful next few days while at the house.
Run hard.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Motivated
Motivation. When I'm forcing myself to sit still for long periods of time, motivation is crucial. This whole week is the most severe test of my resolve and self-control. Do I have enough self-discipline to make myself not train and still remain motivated? When I wake up at four in the morning ready to roll, can I sit down and drink coffee and watch the news and wait till I have to be at work? I'll have to.
My iPod is working in overdrive. There are a few heavy metal bands (A.T.P., Metallica, and Tool) coursing through my head, but it's mostly movie soundtracks. I'm brooding to "300", "Braveheart", "The Bourne Identity", and "Black Hawk Down". I've started to get a little more nervous, but for the most part I'm still quietly angry and determined. I'll be nervous when I get in the car for Natchez...but till then, I'm ready and impatient.
As of right now, I have 3 days, 20 hours, 16 minutes till the gun goes off. Bring it on.
Run hard.
My iPod is working in overdrive. There are a few heavy metal bands (A.T.P., Metallica, and Tool) coursing through my head, but it's mostly movie soundtracks. I'm brooding to "300", "Braveheart", "The Bourne Identity", and "Black Hawk Down". I've started to get a little more nervous, but for the most part I'm still quietly angry and determined. I'll be nervous when I get in the car for Natchez...but till then, I'm ready and impatient.
As of right now, I have 3 days, 20 hours, 16 minutes till the gun goes off. Bring it on.
Run hard.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Cold Breeze
"We did what we were trained to do, what we were bred to do, what we were born to do!"
- Dilios, "300"
I've spent the past few days in some deep contemplation. Thinking about what this thing is and how much more daunting it is has caused some interesting emotions. At first, I wasn't sure it could be done. "What am I thinking? There's no way I'm prepared."
Then I discovered what nervous feels like. I thought I knew nervous already from countless pre-race jitters or from going on dates or deciding that I was going to join the Marine Corps. I didn't know it. Nervous isn't a feeling in your stomach. Honest to God, it crept up behind me and sat on my soul. It sits there, very tiny, and when you feel at your strongest and most competent it quietly whispers, "eh, maybe." That's all.
The last emotion, the one I'm feeling now, is quiet, determined rage. I'm angry. I'm confident. I'm well trained. Imagine you're in a field somewhere in the mid-west. You're surrounded by golden, dusty wheat and there isn't anything else in sight for miles. Then a storm begins to move in. All you can see is huge, black clouds and a chilling breeze leading it. You know what that sight means. You know that in a few moments all hell is going to be cut loose. You are going to see something awesome.
Today is my last day of training. A thirty minute jog and a light weight lifting session. From today until 5 o'clock Friday the 25th I will be resting, sleeping and loading on carbs. Let me know if you feel a cold breeze around me.
Run hard.
- Dilios, "300"
I've spent the past few days in some deep contemplation. Thinking about what this thing is and how much more daunting it is has caused some interesting emotions. At first, I wasn't sure it could be done. "What am I thinking? There's no way I'm prepared."
Then I discovered what nervous feels like. I thought I knew nervous already from countless pre-race jitters or from going on dates or deciding that I was going to join the Marine Corps. I didn't know it. Nervous isn't a feeling in your stomach. Honest to God, it crept up behind me and sat on my soul. It sits there, very tiny, and when you feel at your strongest and most competent it quietly whispers, "eh, maybe." That's all.
The last emotion, the one I'm feeling now, is quiet, determined rage. I'm angry. I'm confident. I'm well trained. Imagine you're in a field somewhere in the mid-west. You're surrounded by golden, dusty wheat and there isn't anything else in sight for miles. Then a storm begins to move in. All you can see is huge, black clouds and a chilling breeze leading it. You know what that sight means. You know that in a few moments all hell is going to be cut loose. You are going to see something awesome.
Today is my last day of training. A thirty minute jog and a light weight lifting session. From today until 5 o'clock Friday the 25th I will be resting, sleeping and loading on carbs. Let me know if you feel a cold breeze around me.
Run hard.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Starbucks
A coffee cup I got at Starbucks: "Run when you can, walk when you have to, crawl if you must; just never give up." Dean Karnazes, Ultramarathon Man.That's right, Dean Karnazes. The Michael Jordan of ultras. I kind of got a kick out of randomly seeing that so close to my run. I'll take it as a good omen. Another thought that Dean had, which I will shamelessly steal, probed why people are the way they are...mainly, lazy.
In his book Ultramarathon Man, Dean notes that somewhere along the line, people began to confuse happiness with comfort. As long as you feel good, you must be happy. For all of you out there who are athletes, especially runners, bikers, and triathletes...you know this is absolutley not the case. Suffering is what we do. If you can sit down at the end of day and watch Roseanne for hours without any ice on your legs or asprin your body, then really, have you worked all that hard? So remember that next time you are laid up in the Lay-Z-Boy with a bag of Cheetos. Your not happy, you're lazy...and maybe fat.
Run hard.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
3.8 Marathons
I'm forcing myself to stay inside now. After a total of four hours working out yesterday, I awoke this morning to find that I was slightly dehydrated. I could tell because my head was pounding...and also I didn't need to use the restroom.
So, I've struggled through this day and finally made it home to take a nap before I worked out. I fell asleep around 2:30 and here I am having just awaken after six. Maybe my body's trying to tell me something. ::slow down, please?::
I'll get an easy workout tommorrow and Saturday, but Saturday is my last day of training! I'm excited because the race will officially be upon me. Score.
I was doing some math yesterday while running and I think the 100 miles comes to 3.8 marathons in a row. I know what you're thinking, "Geeze. It took you four hours to do that math?" Get off me, I'm a runner not Steven Hawkings. Besides, there were cute girls running the lakes. Party.
Run hard.
So, I've struggled through this day and finally made it home to take a nap before I worked out. I fell asleep around 2:30 and here I am having just awaken after six. Maybe my body's trying to tell me something. ::slow down, please?::
I'll get an easy workout tommorrow and Saturday, but Saturday is my last day of training! I'm excited because the race will officially be upon me. Score.
I was doing some math yesterday while running and I think the 100 miles comes to 3.8 marathons in a row. I know what you're thinking, "Geeze. It took you four hours to do that math?" Get off me, I'm a runner not Steven Hawkings. Besides, there were cute girls running the lakes. Party.
Run hard.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
All I Need
It's about 4:30 AM Wednesday the 16th. I'm sitting here enjoying a large cup of coffee, FoxNews, and the world wide web as I welcome another beautiful looking day. What else does a man need in the morning?
It's about this time when during my run I'll be near miles 75 (hopefuly). I'm sure that at that time, that morning, I'll be thinking there's plenty I need.
Look, I really want to avoid getting all sappy and what-not here, so I'll just get right to the point. This race isn't about the hugeness of the challenge or trying to get noticed in papers. It's about raising money and awareness for cancer. This thing is crucial and it means a hell of a lot to me.
In short, this disease has made me take a look at what's important in life. Yeah, there are things I want and even things that I need...but, there are also those things (people, rather) that you love. Cancer can take all three. So this morning, hug your mom, hug your dad, tackle your brother as he walks out the door, call grandpa, take your dorky sister out to lunch, make fun of your girlfriend's accent. Yeah, right now this coffee and FoxNews are hitting the spot...are all I need. But they aren't what's most important. Know what's important.
Run hard.
It's about this time when during my run I'll be near miles 75 (hopefuly). I'm sure that at that time, that morning, I'll be thinking there's plenty I need.
Look, I really want to avoid getting all sappy and what-not here, so I'll just get right to the point. This race isn't about the hugeness of the challenge or trying to get noticed in papers. It's about raising money and awareness for cancer. This thing is crucial and it means a hell of a lot to me.
In short, this disease has made me take a look at what's important in life. Yeah, there are things I want and even things that I need...but, there are also those things (people, rather) that you love. Cancer can take all three. So this morning, hug your mom, hug your dad, tackle your brother as he walks out the door, call grandpa, take your dorky sister out to lunch, make fun of your girlfriend's accent. Yeah, right now this coffee and FoxNews are hitting the spot...are all I need. But they aren't what's most important. Know what's important.
Run hard.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Thoughts On 100
Today begins my last week of tapering. I won't have any runs longer than two hours and will be shutting my body down around Saturday as I get ready for a whole week of rest. Again, this is one of the most difficult parts of my training...a sedentary life-style, even for the benefit of training, is not my style at all.So here is how I've started preparing for my final week. Sports psychology is really interesting in that it looks deeply at how an athlete prepares mentaly for an upcoming contest. One way the mind copes is by playing the event out, over and over again, in your head. That way you're ready for any scenario and can pretty much act without thinking. Since the beginning of the month I have run the 100 miles probably at least once every day...in my head, of course. I dwell on it constantly. Trying to imagine what the pain will feel like. How tired I will feel. How much I will be tempted to quit. How emotional I will be at the finish line. And, also, how good that first beer is going to taste afterwards.
Everything leading to next week is a practice in mind control. Controling how I rest and train, but also controling how I think and feel as I get closer to arguably my most severe feat ever.
Happy running!
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Man Down
Yesterday saw the downfall of our first team member. It started out innocently enough. When I headed out for an easy run around the lakes there were only a few ominous clouds in the sky. The sun was still out and it looked like any rain clouds floating by would soon be blown out of the area. It wasn't long before it began sprinkling. It was very gentle and I was thinking that an easy drizzle would be cooling 
and I wouldn't have to worry too much about my iPod shuffle (GumpPod). As I continued around the lakes, so did the intensity of the rainfall. Before long, it was a torrential downpour and the iPod and I were completely soaked.
The last song that he played before giving up life was 'Knights of Cydonia' by The Muse; a song about a post-apocalyptic cowboy future...seemingly appropriate for it's last song.
So now a new iPod is on the way. Perhaps we'll name this one JennyPod (I like to name my iPod's after famous persons and I seem to be on a Forrest Gump trip at the moment).
Happy running!
and I wouldn't have to worry too much about my iPod shuffle (GumpPod). As I continued around the lakes, so did the intensity of the rainfall. Before long, it was a torrential downpour and the iPod and I were completely soaked.The last song that he played before giving up life was 'Knights of Cydonia' by The Muse; a song about a post-apocalyptic cowboy future...seemingly appropriate for it's last song.
So now a new iPod is on the way. Perhaps we'll name this one JennyPod (I like to name my iPod's after famous persons and I seem to be on a Forrest Gump trip at the moment).
Happy running!
Friday, April 11, 2008
An Experience
"We are different, in essence, from other men. If you want to win something, run 100 meters. If you want to experience something, run a marathon."-- Emil Zatopek
You may as well put the word "ultra" in front of the word marathon at the end of that quote. Zatopek, a ridiculous distance runner in the 40's and 50's, is describing perfectly what this ultra has become to me. Idealy, I would be perfectly rested now. I would have already peaked, knocked out my last distance run, and be well on my way to 100 miles. However, like everything else involving my training, this past week has been quite the experience.
So I'm tired. Boo hoo. What else is new? The big qualm here is what does being tired mean this late in the game? It's hard to say exactly. It may not mean much other than I should rest before finishing my last week of tapering...or it could mean I'm setting myself up for failure through exhaustion. I tend to believe that it is the former. But, this race has become an experience for me in both body and mind. I can't help but question myself over and over. I scrutinize my training non-stop throughout the day. " Am I doing enough? Am I doing too much? Should I try a different method?" It's mind numbing, really.
There is comfort in Zatopek's words, though. While this creature may be driving me insane, there are those on my team to whom it has done the exact opposite. This beast has changed them.
They are in awe of it. While my reactions and behaviors are surreal to me, my team recognizes real progress. They calm me down and reassure me that I am on track. I am ready. I am in peak shape. That I am going to cruise through 100 miles with little more than a sigh. God willing, that sigh will be a sigh of relief. A mouth-watering cherry on top of this experience. The 100 miles is only the ending. The real experience has been trying to get to April 25th.
Run hard, run slow.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Tougher Than Me...
I absolutely could not be more blessed in terms of the crew that I have helping me out. Let's not kid ourselves, everyone is busy with something. So finding time to help out with day long (or in my case, close to six month long) events is tough to do. My guys have gone above and beyond to help in ways they don't have too. I've got Pat organizing and contacting anyone and everyone. Jill, Ali, Brian, and Dave show up and stay all day long for fundraising events and watch me run all night on training runs. My family, especially Elbow and Paul, doing stupid little nit-picky favors, but things that nevertheless have to get done. Then all the people sponsoring me: Lisa Evans over at Brooks, Jenni Peters at Varsity Sports, and Eric Hill up at Mississippi State.
People can't grasp the idea of running 100 miles and often ask me if I'm insane. No. I am perfectly sane. You want insane? Check out these guys that are helping me. They've got nothing invested in this. This cause is my own personal struggle, not theirs; but don't try and tell them that. They're on board and fully dedicated as if this thing was their own brain child. I love them for that, and that's why they're tougher than me.
Crawfish for Cancer was a success! Our turnout was a little low and in the end we had to go sell outside of Tiger Stadium after the spring game...but we still pulled down close to $1400. Some of that will have to cover expenses, but the majority will put us over $2300!
Happy running!
People can't grasp the idea of running 100 miles and often ask me if I'm insane. No. I am perfectly sane. You want insane? Check out these guys that are helping me. They've got nothing invested in this. This cause is my own personal struggle, not theirs; but don't try and tell them that. They're on board and fully dedicated as if this thing was their own brain child. I love them for that, and that's why they're tougher than me.
Crawfish for Cancer was a success! Our turnout was a little low and in the end we had to go sell outside of Tiger Stadium after the spring game...but we still pulled down close to $1400. Some of that will have to cover expenses, but the majority will put us over $2300!
Happy running!
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Crawfish for Cancer
Our first mini-fundraiser is just around the corner! Be sure to come out and meet Team Ultramarathon Brady this Saturday at Varsity Sports in Baton Rouge where we'll be selling crawfish to benefit Relay for Life! The party starts at 2:30 on the front steps of Varsity Sports on Perkins and will last to around six...or till we run out of crawfish.
We'll have shirts for sale and, of course, plenty of crawfish and free beer while it lasts. $25 for 5lbs and $15 for 3lbs. T-shirts for $10.
If you plan on running in the Fat Boy 5k Saturday morning, then check out the Team Ultramarathon Brady table for all the details!
Happy running!
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Live via Sunny South Florida
After 12 1/2 hours of bliss in the car, we finally made it to Sebastian, FL. The weather report consistently called for rain this weekend, but I'm yet to see a drop. Yesterday morning, after coffee with my grandpa, I suited up and did my own triathlon. I drafted off of cars on a 20 mile bike ride, ran through a huge park where a boat and antique car show was going on, and then jumped in the Atlantic. The Atlantic swim didn't last too long. In addition to just not being real fond of water, I also had ten foot waves to contend with. I decided that 15 minutes was enough.
Today is my cousin's, Meghan, wedding. It starts at either two or four...I can't remember, but I'm sure I'll be directed as needed. Florida is definitely the best place in the south to train. I've got it all at my finger tips...and if you happen to be able to squeeze in a party with the family, well then party on Wayne.
Happy running!
Today is my cousin's, Meghan, wedding. It starts at either two or four...I can't remember, but I'm sure I'll be directed as needed. Florida is definitely the best place in the south to train. I've got it all at my finger tips...and if you happen to be able to squeeze in a party with the family, well then party on Wayne.
Happy running!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
One Month
I've had a very relaxing series of training days the past week. Maybe it's because some of the pressure is off since I've already gotten over the peak of really hard training. Or, maybe, I know it's close to the end and I'm over it. I'm pretty sure it's just because I know I'm tapering, I'm ready and in shape, and this goal I've been working so hard for is finally at hand. Anywho, my easy runs have been, well...easy. I'm rocking mostly to the vocals of Dax Riggs on my iPod...check him out.I am officially within one month of race day. I'm not really hung-up on this date, but it is comforting to know that it's almost over. Don't misunderstand...I'm not jaded; but, really, training for a 100-miler is exhausting all the way around.
Early Friday morning my brother, sister and I will head out on a twelve hour journey to Sebastian, FL for my cousin's wedding. I'm very excited about this trip. Ever since I went to Ironman, FL in Panama City with Big Dave, I've been craving to get back. There's just something about training on the beach that is amazingly relaxing and effective. I can train for all three tri events at once with not much break between. Since I'm tapering right now, I can coast through at my own pace while taking in the scenery. Plus, I get to see the whole family in a very fun place and the wedding later in the evening is going to be a-tons-of-fun.The crawfish boil is our next mini fundraiser...except it's not going to be so "mini." Lot's of people are getting in on this and I'm hoping it's as big as the number of mass emails that are going out!
Happy running!
Friday, March 21, 2008
Indian Creek Swim
Changes have been made to the chase team for race day. Initially we had Big Dave, Pat Fellows, Brian Sebastian, and we'd found an EMT that would be with us all night. Well, our EMT has since left the team and Brian can't be there on race day because of a family situation (we forgive him...family first).
So here is our new line-up on race day:
Pat Fellows (captain)
Dave Melichar (captain)
Ali Lionberger
Paul Hendrix
We still don't have an EMT, but here's what we know: I am physically healthy, we won't be more than 30-40 minutes from an emergency room, the worse injury I can endure is some kind of twist or sprain, and if there were any serious heart or health problems, we likely would have seen them already in one of the trials.
Yesterday I got a painful deep-tissue massage that hit the spot. Just what I needed. And this morning I drove to Alexandria and spent a few hours out at Indian Creek canoeing alongside Dave and Ali as they got in an open water swim. I jumped in too for a quick swim at the end. I hate swimming. Period. However, it's always great to get in a different kind of cross-training.
I'm still taking it easy after last weekend's fiasco. We had an article run in The Advocate that instantly brought in about $250. Fundraising is cruising along. Get excited!
So here is our new line-up on race day:
Pat Fellows (captain)
Dave Melichar (captain)
Ali Lionberger
Paul Hendrix
We still don't have an EMT, but here's what we know: I am physically healthy, we won't be more than 30-40 minutes from an emergency room, the worse injury I can endure is some kind of twist or sprain, and if there were any serious heart or health problems, we likely would have seen them already in one of the trials.
Yesterday I got a painful deep-tissue massage that hit the spot. Just what I needed. And this morning I drove to Alexandria and spent a few hours out at Indian Creek canoeing alongside Dave and Ali as they got in an open water swim. I jumped in too for a quick swim at the end. I hate swimming. Period. However, it's always great to get in a different kind of cross-training.
I'm still taking it easy after last weekend's fiasco. We had an article run in The Advocate that instantly brought in about $250. Fundraising is cruising along. Get excited!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Trial III: Counting Our Loses
It's easy to console yourself and come up with cliché things to say when you don't reach your goals. Things like "It's not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game.", "At least you left it all out on the court.", or "Sometimes you learn more from losing than from winning." These are all crap to me, really.
I can blame a poor showing on the fact that I did a sprint triathlon the day before this trial. Or I can say that I was sick for almost a week and a half before the run.
Or, even, I could stick it to the fact that I was still running up till three days before. Well, despite how legitimate this laundry-list of reasons may be, not one of them is an excuse.
I knew better than to do a tri the day before. I know to give myself at least a full weeks rest. I also know that if I've been sick that I need to push back the date for an upcoming trial. In short, I trained harder not smarter. Cliché, I know...but there's a lot of truth in it.
So here's how Trial III brought the hurt:
The day began at six AM when I woke up in Alexandria, LA. I spent most of the morning mulling around the house and gradually getting my stuff together. I finally got back to Baton Rouge around five and quickly got my nutrition ready and then headed out the door for Mass. After a beautiful Palm Sunday Mass, Dave, Brian and I headed off for Natchez while rocking to various techno mixes.
We officially started running just before ten o'clock...a little later than we'd planned for, but then again we were going to be running all night anyway, so it didn't really matter.
Nutrition:
I've got a problem with this side of the race and in a big way. Yeah, I've nailed down the formula for what my stomach can handle, but I don't always want to eat. Pat Fellows has assured me than on race day he will be taking charge of this and demanding that I eat ever half hour, like it or not. I didn't eat nearly enough on this run. I had a huge bowl of pasta pre-run, but during I only went through a few chips, two bananas, some peanuts, a Pediasure, and some Dr. Pepper.
Night Life:
Running through the night is very odd...especially on the Trace. I'm essentially running through the woods. I couldn't see more than maybe 15 feet in front of me, so I heard EVERYTHING. We saw (heard mostly) deer everywhere and there was one very nerve-wracking encounter with a skunk on the side of the road. Also, the Park Service had apparently prescribed a control burn along a section of the road this night. So to add to the already slightly creepy sensation of running through the woods at night, we were now running through thick clouds of moon-lit smoke. I think Dave was more nervous than I was, but all in all a very memorable evening.
The Toughest Hour:
Hour 5:30-6:30 was brutal. I could tell at the starting line that my legs were a little bit tired. I could still feel the affects of doing the sprint triathlon the day before, but was optimistic that it wouldn't be a big deal and that a nice easy stride would eventually lull the tired sensation away. Well, at mile 30 I knew I was in trouble. My legs were more than slightly wary and I wasn't very sure how much longer I would last. When we reached mile 32, I found out. My quads would seize up on me and then suddenly release, leaving me unable to stand very well. So Dave and Brian confered on the situation and decided that we needed to call it an evening. I climbed into the back of the truck, dejected, and promptly fell asleep as we headed back to Baton Rouge.
What We Know:
We made the right decision by throwing in the towel. Really, this run was to acclimate to running on the Trace at night. After six and a half hours, we had a good idea of what to expect. Continuing to run while I was hurt wouldn't do anything constructive. It would only increase the amount of time I would need to heal and possible screw up me being ready on race day. We know that I can get close to 50 miles and beyond. Killing myself on this night would have just made things worse. However, let's not pretend like I feel good about this. Save yourself some trouble and don't even begin to try and console me...it ain't happening. For better or worse, this was the right thing, but I still feel terrible about it.
This week is nothing but rest and mild bike rides. We start again next week with more training and the beginning of tapering towards April 25th. Not to sound too Doomsday-ish, but the end is near.
I can blame a poor showing on the fact that I did a sprint triathlon the day before this trial. Or I can say that I was sick for almost a week and a half before the run.
Or, even, I could stick it to the fact that I was still running up till three days before. Well, despite how legitimate this laundry-list of reasons may be, not one of them is an excuse.I knew better than to do a tri the day before. I know to give myself at least a full weeks rest. I also know that if I've been sick that I need to push back the date for an upcoming trial. In short, I trained harder not smarter. Cliché, I know...but there's a lot of truth in it.
So here's how Trial III brought the hurt:
The day began at six AM when I woke up in Alexandria, LA. I spent most of the morning mulling around the house and gradually getting my stuff together. I finally got back to Baton Rouge around five and quickly got my nutrition ready and then headed out the door for Mass. After a beautiful Palm Sunday Mass, Dave, Brian and I headed off for Natchez while rocking to various techno mixes.
We officially started running just before ten o'clock...a little later than we'd planned for, but then again we were going to be running all night anyway, so it didn't really matter.
Nutrition:
I've got a problem with this side of the race and in a big way. Yeah, I've nailed down the formula for what my stomach can handle, but I don't always want to eat. Pat Fellows has assured me than on race day he will be taking charge of this and demanding that I eat ever half hour, like it or not. I didn't eat nearly enough on this run. I had a huge bowl of pasta pre-run, but during I only went through a few chips, two bananas, some peanuts, a Pediasure, and some Dr. Pepper.
Night Life:
Running through the night is very odd...especially on the Trace. I'm essentially running through the woods. I couldn't see more than maybe 15 feet in front of me, so I heard EVERYTHING. We saw (heard mostly) deer everywhere and there was one very nerve-wracking encounter with a skunk on the side of the road. Also, the Park Service had apparently prescribed a control burn along a section of the road this night. So to add to the already slightly creepy sensation of running through the woods at night, we were now running through thick clouds of moon-lit smoke. I think Dave was more nervous than I was, but all in all a very memorable evening.
The Toughest Hour:
Hour 5:30-6:30 was brutal. I could tell at the starting line that my legs were a little bit tired. I could still feel the affects of doing the sprint triathlon the day before, but was optimistic that it wouldn't be a big deal and that a nice easy stride would eventually lull the tired sensation away. Well, at mile 30 I knew I was in trouble. My legs were more than slightly wary and I wasn't very sure how much longer I would last. When we reached mile 32, I found out. My quads would seize up on me and then suddenly release, leaving me unable to stand very well. So Dave and Brian confered on the situation and decided that we needed to call it an evening. I climbed into the back of the truck, dejected, and promptly fell asleep as we headed back to Baton Rouge.
What We Know:
We made the right decision by throwing in the towel. Really, this run was to acclimate to running on the Trace at night. After six and a half hours, we had a good idea of what to expect. Continuing to run while I was hurt wouldn't do anything constructive. It would only increase the amount of time I would need to heal and possible screw up me being ready on race day. We know that I can get close to 50 miles and beyond. Killing myself on this night would have just made things worse. However, let's not pretend like I feel good about this. Save yourself some trouble and don't even begin to try and console me...it ain't happening. For better or worse, this was the right thing, but I still feel terrible about it.
This week is nothing but rest and mild bike rides. We start again next week with more training and the beginning of tapering towards April 25th. Not to sound too Doomsday-ish, but the end is near.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Fundraising
Today my friend Ali and I raced in the ULM Warhawk Triathlon. There wasn't any record breaking performances on my part, but I was strong the whole time and put up a 5K time I was happy with (just over 19 minutes). Since I haven't swam since January or trained particularly hard on the bike at all, it really wasn't a bad morning.
Tomorrow we've got Trial III on the Trace. We kick-off at 9 PM and run for 45 miles. We're trying to simulate a long distance night time run, similar to what race day will be like. We may also take another look at nutrition...just depending on how the run is going.
Fundraising is moving at a nice pace. Here's what's happened so far:
April 5th: Crawfish boil at Varsity sports. We got a great deal on crawfish and are selling them at 3 lbs/$15 and 5 lbs/$20
Timex Watch sale: Timex is hooking us up with a couple boxes of brand new triathlon watches at no cost. We'll be selling these babies at $10 and $15. Pure profit.
Media: We've already had an article written by the Alexandria Town Talk, but we have stories being written by other newspapers as well. These include 225, The Advocate, and The Natchez Democrat.
Be sure to check the Relay for Life site to watch our donations rise. Remember, the amount you see on the website is actually a few hundred lower than what we've actually earned. Those few extra hundred are in checks and dollars mailed in.
Happy running!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Lower Back Tatt
The Flogging Molly concert was fantastic. They just don't get old. Perhaps what makes them even better than most bands is how amazingly friendly they are post-concert. I've met most of the band over the past four concerts just because they are extremely outgoing and courteous to their fans. So I have Flogging Molly's new CD on the iPod and also the two bands that opened up for them: The Cherry Cokes and The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band...I highly recommend all three.
Training has continued to be tough. I finally got over the head cold that was keeping me down for a week, but I'm still having trouble keeping my energy up. My legs are continuously exhausted. So I have taken today off and probably won't run again until this weekend.
This weekend:
Saturday: The Warhawk Triathlon, Monroe, LA
I know people are wary of me doing so many races while training. Also, why race when you are admitedly tired? Well, this tri is still up-in-the-air. I may not do it, but won't know for sure until Friday. Depending on how my legs feel and how I feel in general will determine if I'll be at this starting line.
Sunday: Trial III, Natchez, MS
This is our third and last true trial. I say true because I'll do one more really long run before the race that won't technically be a trial. Saturday's trial will be on the Trace again and this time we will start about eight or nine o'clock and run through the night. We need to do this because on race day we'll start at night to avoid the risk of overheating. We initially planned for this run to be 11-12 hours and close to 65 miles; however, better judgement and advice has led us to shortening this to 8-9 hours (45 miles). We figure that we're about 95% certain I can knock out 100 miles and that there wouldn't be much of an advantage in putting in those kind of miles this close to race day. At this point, it's better to be slightly under-trained than slighlty over-trained.
My sister hooked me up with a sweet, sweet lower-back tattoo today. I get a big kick out of mocking people in subtle ways they aren't real sure about...ala the lower-back tatt. It's temporary, don't fret...but I wish I could see the look on people's faces as I pass them while running the lake with my shirt off. Priceless.
Training has continued to be tough. I finally got over the head cold that was keeping me down for a week, but I'm still having trouble keeping my energy up. My legs are continuously exhausted. So I have taken today off and probably won't run again until this weekend.
This weekend:
Saturday: The Warhawk Triathlon, Monroe, LA
I know people are wary of me doing so many races while training. Also, why race when you are admitedly tired? Well, this tri is still up-in-the-air. I may not do it, but won't know for sure until Friday. Depending on how my legs feel and how I feel in general will determine if I'll be at this starting line.
Sunday: Trial III, Natchez, MS
This is our third and last true trial. I say true because I'll do one more really long run before the race that won't technically be a trial. Saturday's trial will be on the Trace again and this time we will start about eight or nine o'clock and run through the night. We need to do this because on race day we'll start at night to avoid the risk of overheating. We initially planned for this run to be 11-12 hours and close to 65 miles; however, better judgement and advice has led us to shortening this to 8-9 hours (45 miles). We figure that we're about 95% certain I can knock out 100 miles and that there wouldn't be much of an advantage in putting in those kind of miles this close to race day. At this point, it's better to be slightly under-trained than slighlty over-trained.
My sister hooked me up with a sweet, sweet lower-back tattoo today. I get a big kick out of mocking people in subtle ways they aren't real sure about...ala the lower-back tatt. It's temporary, don't fret...but I wish I could see the look on people's faces as I pass them while running the lake with my shirt off. Priceless.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Flogging Molly
This week has been, by far, the most infuriating week of training I've had. Shinsplints are not the culprit (they've actually subsided almost completely), but rather I can't seem to stay healthy. That may be an exaggeration. Really all I have is another head cold, but when you need to log a four hour run, a head cold is enough to drop you to the floor. So I've been heavily doped up on NyQuil and Zicam. I was able to get in one run in the past seven days that was just under four hours, but the rest have only been two hours at the max. I've also had to cut out all weight lifting. I feel like I'm on the tail end of this cold and hopefully she'll be cleared up by tomorrow.
This weekend I've got the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Baton Rouge. This is a really long event (because of all the ceremonies before and after), but one of the more entertaining races I do each season. Also, my sister and I are headed to New Orleans on Sunday to see Flogging Molly at the House of Blues. This will be my fourth time to see them, and I know what you're thinking...."Brady, overkill. Four times? Really, how many times do you need to see them?" Well, the answer is "many more." I love the Irish Rock, what can I say.
We recently picked up Timex as a sponsor and they are helping us out in huge ways with fundraising. Speaking of, we cracked $1,000 yesterday! I'm excited. The majority of the money we raise will come as the race gets closer, but I'm ecstatic that we've reached this benchmark.
This weekend I've got the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Baton Rouge. This is a really long event (because of all the ceremonies before and after), but one of the more entertaining races I do each season. Also, my sister and I are headed to New Orleans on Sunday to see Flogging Molly at the House of Blues. This will be my fourth time to see them, and I know what you're thinking...."Brady, overkill. Four times? Really, how many times do you need to see them?" Well, the answer is "many more." I love the Irish Rock, what can I say.We recently picked up Timex as a sponsor and they are helping us out in huge ways with fundraising. Speaking of, we cracked $1,000 yesterday! I'm excited. The majority of the money we raise will come as the race gets closer, but I'm ecstatic that we've reached this benchmark.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Leap Day
I was sitting at the computer reviewing some past blogs and trying to decide if I should post again today. I glanced at my Timex Ironman watch to check the date...and low and behold, it said it was March 1st. Apparently, my watch doesn't recognize leap years. That means every four years I'll have to stop and change the date. What a hassle.
So, a great deal has happened in the past week. The Alexandria Town Talk ran a spectacular story on the race and my training. We've seen about a $200 dollar increase in our fundraising because of this story. I was contacted recently by one of our sponsors who notified me that our shirts are finally in! That's a small deal, really, but I'm very excited about it. Also, yesterday Pat Fellows introduced me to a wonderful lady, Lisa Evans. Lisa is a sales rep for Brooks who has offered to hook us up with everything from shoes to apparel...just about anything that we want. I'm so glad that she is on board with, and very enthusiastic, about what I'm doing. Shoes, gear, shirts, newspaper stories...these are all relatively small things to deal with. Making sure I'm properly trained is no big deal, but add in all the things that come along with being a race director, no matter how small, and it becomes overwhelming in a heartbeat.
Speaking of training, since the River City Classic in Natchez I've had a tough time with running. Mostly it can be chalked up to exhaustion, but shinsplints are bothering me too. Yesterday I logged just under four hours and today I am shooting for two hours and an intense weight workout. I've also scheduled another massage for later tonight.
Happy running!
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Post 45
After our first trial on MLK day, I learned really quickly that I wasn't giving myself enough time to recoup. So, this whole week has been an application of what I endured after our first trial. I cut all activities out of my schedule until late Thursday. Monday evening I went for a long easy walk through campus to the library to push the lactic acid through my legs, but that's all.
Again, I was overwhelmed at how well my body bounced back. There was the expected soreness and inability to ascend stairs with any ease...but no bodily injuries of note. My shinsplints did reappear, but aren't nearly as intense as in the past. Maybe the most debilitating after effect has been pure exhaustion. For days you are beyond fatigued. I would get up and go to work, get home about four and then sleep till seven the next morning. I was like this for at least three days, and even now I can tell my body is still drained.
So this week I begin amping up the hours. My longest runs will be close to four hours, but most will be between two and three. Yesterday I ran in the the River City Classic 10k in Natchez, MS. This race has for years been a thorn in my side. I historically never do well here, but always love running it. I took the lead early in the race around the two-mile mark and led the entire race. That is until about 200 meters. Then, David Hefley, an old friend and running arch nemesis, took the lead from me and won by a little over ten seconds. My time was 37:52...not impressive, but again, all I've been doing is distance work.
Again, I was overwhelmed at how well my body bounced back. There was the expected soreness and inability to ascend stairs with any ease...but no bodily injuries of note. My shinsplints did reappear, but aren't nearly as intense as in the past. Maybe the most debilitating after effect has been pure exhaustion. For days you are beyond fatigued. I would get up and go to work, get home about four and then sleep till seven the next morning. I was like this for at least three days, and even now I can tell my body is still drained.
So this week I begin amping up the hours. My longest runs will be close to four hours, but most will be between two and three. Yesterday I ran in the the River City Classic 10k in Natchez, MS. This race has for years been a thorn in my side. I historically never do well here, but always love running it. I took the lead early in the race around the two-mile mark and led the entire race. That is until about 200 meters. Then, David Hefley, an old friend and running arch nemesis, took the lead from me and won by a little over ten seconds. My time was 37:52...not impressive, but again, all I've been doing is distance work.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Trial II: 45 Miles
If ever we were looking for good omens, February 17th was it. I ran 45 miles in 8 hours 45 minutes. Insane, right.
What you see above is a graph created from the GPS that I was wearing for a short period of the run. The blue line is my speed and the black line is the elevation change in feet. You'll notice that there are a few spots where the blue line spikes, but for the most part its just sitting on the 10:00 line. Where it spikes is where I stopped to stretch or get something to eat. This is really freaky to me because without even trying I have absolutely dialed in my pace. 10:00 mins/mile is 6 mph and, as you can see, I never came off that pace. Great news.
So the day began not so well. I went to bed around 8:30 the night before with an awsome headache, but couldn't really fall asleep until maybe 10:30 or 11. When I finally did get to sleep, I was out cold. Our plan was to roll out at 4:30, so I wanted to be up at three to get some coffee, stretch, and go through all my gear once more. I didn't. Whenever I get into a really deep and sound sleep I've noticed that my dreams will have a soundtrack. The reason that I suddenly jerked awake at 4:17 was because for some reason, in my dream, the Allman Brothers Band had stopped playing and I wanted to hit the replay button.
After we got on the road (we rocked to the Allman Brothers as we left) things ran very smoothly for the rest of the day. Here's how she went:
Poison of Choice:
Pediasure. Wow. We didn't use it at all the first trial, but yesterday I learned how important this sweet sweet elixir is going to be. It's only 250 calories, but when my stomach has put a halt on most solid foods, Pediasure went many an extra mile to boost my energy. This stuff is gold. GOLD.
The Toughest Hour:
Hour four, again, was the big one. We were coming up on the turn around point, mile 25, and my stomach was just refusing to cooperate. I was smart enough to bring along Dr. Pepper this time and after a few pulls from that I began to feel better. The real lesson here is that my stomach is clearly uber sensitive to sweets. I need to limit them from all pre-race meals, which I didn't for this run.
What Worked Great:
Taking more frequent and longer breaks was a great idea. On the first trial I was really worried about time lost in breaks, but this time I tried to ignore it. If I wanted to sit and talk for awhile, I did. I also made it a point to stretch and walk more. In short, I think I've realized that its more important to operate on how I feel rather than saying that at a certain time interval I have to do this and this or else I'm behind. I'll have 24 hours, I need to take it at my own pace.
Now, That's Team Work:
Brian and Dave were solid. We kept a chase car with us this time to work as our mobile base. Typically, the chase car would go ahead a few miles and wait for me and whoever was on the bike. There was really only one incident with this plan where Brian got too far ahead of me when I needed energy. Other than that, I couldn't ask for a better team. I'm a control-freak/worrier at nature. I want to be hands on and know everything that's going on at all times.
Not only can I not physically do that for this, but at a certain point my brain stops functioning except for getting me through the next mile. It is remarkably reassuring to know that these two can and will take care of me and everything on race day.
Our next trial is 9 March and I think it's scheduled to be 11-12 hours long. I say "I think" because we're still debating on how far is "far enough" to train before the actual run, but I'll let you know. Today has been OK. I'm obviously very sore, but no real pains anywhere in the body. I never felt my shinsplilnts yesterday and only slightly feel them today. I'm not sure how that happened (I mean, you figure you run 45 miles...your shinsplints are going to hurt), but I'll take it.
Keep an eye out for the Alexandria Town Talk tommorrow. They're suppose to be running our story!
Good running.
What you see above is a graph created from the GPS that I was wearing for a short period of the run. The blue line is my speed and the black line is the elevation change in feet. You'll notice that there are a few spots where the blue line spikes, but for the most part its just sitting on the 10:00 line. Where it spikes is where I stopped to stretch or get something to eat. This is really freaky to me because without even trying I have absolutely dialed in my pace. 10:00 mins/mile is 6 mph and, as you can see, I never came off that pace. Great news.So the day began not so well. I went to bed around 8:30 the night before with an awsome headache, but couldn't really fall asleep until maybe 10:30 or 11. When I finally did get to sleep, I was out cold. Our plan was to roll out at 4:30, so I wanted to be up at three to get some coffee, stretch, and go through all my gear once more. I didn't. Whenever I get into a really deep and sound sleep I've noticed that my dreams will have a soundtrack. The reason that I suddenly jerked awake at 4:17 was because for some reason, in my dream, the Allman Brothers Band had stopped playing and I wanted to hit the replay button.
After we got on the road (we rocked to the Allman Brothers as we left) things ran very smoothly for the rest of the day. Here's how she went:
Poison of Choice:
Pediasure. Wow. We didn't use it at all the first trial, but yesterday I learned how important this sweet sweet elixir is going to be. It's only 250 calories, but when my stomach has put a halt on most solid foods, Pediasure went many an extra mile to boost my energy. This stuff is gold. GOLD.
The Toughest Hour:
Hour four, again, was the big one. We were coming up on the turn around point, mile 25, and my stomach was just refusing to cooperate. I was smart enough to bring along Dr. Pepper this time and after a few pulls from that I began to feel better. The real lesson here is that my stomach is clearly uber sensitive to sweets. I need to limit them from all pre-race meals, which I didn't for this run.
What Worked Great:
Taking more frequent and longer breaks was a great idea. On the first trial I was really worried about time lost in breaks, but this time I tried to ignore it. If I wanted to sit and talk for awhile, I did. I also made it a point to stretch and walk more. In short, I think I've realized that its more important to operate on how I feel rather than saying that at a certain time interval I have to do this and this or else I'm behind. I'll have 24 hours, I need to take it at my own pace.
Now, That's Team Work:
Brian and Dave were solid. We kept a chase car with us this time to work as our mobile base. Typically, the chase car would go ahead a few miles and wait for me and whoever was on the bike. There was really only one incident with this plan where Brian got too far ahead of me when I needed energy. Other than that, I couldn't ask for a better team. I'm a control-freak/worrier at nature. I want to be hands on and know everything that's going on at all times.
Not only can I not physically do that for this, but at a certain point my brain stops functioning except for getting me through the next mile. It is remarkably reassuring to know that these two can and will take care of me and everything on race day.Our next trial is 9 March and I think it's scheduled to be 11-12 hours long. I say "I think" because we're still debating on how far is "far enough" to train before the actual run, but I'll let you know. Today has been OK. I'm obviously very sore, but no real pains anywhere in the body. I never felt my shinsplilnts yesterday and only slightly feel them today. I'm not sure how that happened (I mean, you figure you run 45 miles...your shinsplints are going to hurt), but I'll take it.
Keep an eye out for the Alexandria Town Talk tommorrow. They're suppose to be running our story!
Good running.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Single's Awareness Day
Many people have asked me how I will spend my Valentine's Day. Well, my sister and I spent a remarkably unromantic evening at Mr. Gatti's where she watched me chow down on pizza and watch the Sci Fi channel as I began carbo-loading for Sunday. I know, I know...I'm a freakin catch. Eat your heart out ladies.I ran for a half hour this afternoon and am running each day up till the 17th. The runs won't be anything triumphant, just easy jaunts to keep the blood moving. Sitting still drives me insane and I can only stand so much "off time."
Last night I did an interview with the Alexandria newspaper, The Town Talk, that lasted nearly a half hour. The reporter, Jeff, was very nice and seemed genuinely curious about what I'm doing. I say he was genuinely curious...his jaw could have been on the floor in disbelief for all I know...but I regress. The story will run Tuesday and we'll be sure to have a link to it up on the site. Hopefully this will catch the public's eye and start a firestorm of interest. Until then, happy V-day...and for those of you without siginificant others, why not take your sister out for a pizza buffet. Huh?
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Prelude To Trial II
Friday's massage session went very well. I was admitedly nervous since I've never had a massage before; however, the folks over at the Massage Emporium were more than professional and provided my legs with some much needed relief.
Last Friday was my last run before this morning. I was trying to give the shinsplints some time off. This morning's run with Andrew Bayer proved what I really already knew: giving you body time off to rest, always works. In essence I didn't actually take off this entire weekend. While I didn't run any, I was in the weight room for maybe 2-3 hours each day.
Sunday is our next trial run. Eight to nine hours and, hopefully, close to 50 miles. Right now the plan is to rest for the remainder of the week. I only have one run planned between now and Sunday, but will continue to lift weights and bike until Friday.
My sister and I went and saw a band called Bones on Saturday night. Their sound is like Kings of Leon and The Black Keys...only slightly more metal. Anywho, they rock and so do I (now that they're on my iPod).
Happy Lent!
Last Friday was my last run before this morning. I was trying to give the shinsplints some time off. This morning's run with Andrew Bayer proved what I really already knew: giving you body time off to rest, always works. In essence I didn't actually take off this entire weekend. While I didn't run any, I was in the weight room for maybe 2-3 hours each day.
Sunday is our next trial run. Eight to nine hours and, hopefully, close to 50 miles. Right now the plan is to rest for the remainder of the week. I only have one run planned between now and Sunday, but will continue to lift weights and bike until Friday.
My sister and I went and saw a band called Bones on Saturday night. Their sound is like Kings of Leon and The Black Keys...only slightly more metal. Anywho, they rock and so do I (now that they're on my iPod).
Happy Lent!
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Massage Therapy
This week has been a lesson in discipline and determination. I've been fighting shinsplints in my right leg that have been excruciating. I've woken up in the morning and cringed at the thought of just moving because I knew that that alone would be killer. I've been icing and massaging it daily as well as loading up on asprin, but have continued to struggle. Well, the splints seem to have finally passed. I can still feel it, but it isn't nearly the pain it was last week. It makes me glad that I continued to push through the pain and trained this whole week. I've had two 3-hour runs and plan on getting in another one tomorrow.
Also, and this may be a shock for those of you who know me well, but tomorrow afternoon I have an appointment to get a massage. Unless maybe it's a girl that I like, I don't really want anybody touching me. So getting a massage is going to be weird, but I hope it will rejuvenate my exhausted legs.
Training this week has been two 3-hour runs with one planned for tomorrow. There have also been two 2-hour runs, a handful of 1-hour runs (morning runs mostly), and 30 minutes of fartleks today coupled with a 1 1/2-hour run. Our next trial is looming right around the corner on February 17th and I'm planning on a significant rest period before that date. Note I said "rest period" and not "off period." I will be doing some kind of cross-training for about five days prior to that date. I'm admitedly nervous about this run. The last trial was six hours, but I felt going into it that even if I wasn't in shape that I would be able to gut it out. This upcoming trial, however, will not tolerate any amount of "gutting it out." This trial will find me out.
Been rocking to Jane's Addiction and also the drumline's from a few college bands. The drumline's are crazy motivating. Try it out.
Also, and this may be a shock for those of you who know me well, but tomorrow afternoon I have an appointment to get a massage. Unless maybe it's a girl that I like, I don't really want anybody touching me. So getting a massage is going to be weird, but I hope it will rejuvenate my exhausted legs.Training this week has been two 3-hour runs with one planned for tomorrow. There have also been two 2-hour runs, a handful of 1-hour runs (morning runs mostly), and 30 minutes of fartleks today coupled with a 1 1/2-hour run. Our next trial is looming right around the corner on February 17th and I'm planning on a significant rest period before that date. Note I said "rest period" and not "off period." I will be doing some kind of cross-training for about five days prior to that date. I'm admitedly nervous about this run. The last trial was six hours, but I felt going into it that even if I wasn't in shape that I would be able to gut it out. This upcoming trial, however, will not tolerate any amount of "gutting it out." This trial will find me out.
Been rocking to Jane's Addiction and also the drumline's from a few college bands. The drumline's are crazy motivating. Try it out.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Pain Game
Pain has proven to be a remarkable part of my training. Don't get me wrong, I knew there would be some kind of discomfort, but I wasn't ready for this. It's an almost euphoric feeling that comes and goes in waves. After a few hours it starts to come in cycles associated with a kind of drowsiness that I can only liken to how you feel when you're on pain killers...or maybe just a lot of nyquil.
Anywho, we're in Alexandria for the weekend. Training this week has consisted of two 3-hour runs and handful of 2-hour and morning runs. I started running with some people who wanted to volunteer to help, and oddly enough everybody is hanging tough and wants to come back for more. While that's encouraging, I think it's safe to say that I'm still the only one willing to run even .1 over 26.2 miles.
So what's on tap for this weekend? Rest. Training is exhausting and I may yet be feeling the side effects of the 33 miles on MLK day. I tend to be OK for a few hours and then I suddenly feel like I've been run over and need to sleep. This, like the pain I feel on runs, comes in cycles. So today, tomorrow and maybe Monday I plan to sleep, eat, and rest. Sunday is the Super Bowl (go Giants) and I plan to reap the benefits of doing nothing.
I'm pleased to announce that we are over $250 on our fundraising! However, our goal is $10,000. So maybe we won't celebrate just yet. Run hard, take it easy.
Anywho, we're in Alexandria for the weekend. Training this week has consisted of two 3-hour runs and handful of 2-hour and morning runs. I started running with some people who wanted to volunteer to help, and oddly enough everybody is hanging tough and wants to come back for more. While that's encouraging, I think it's safe to say that I'm still the only one willing to run even .1 over 26.2 miles.
So what's on tap for this weekend? Rest. Training is exhausting and I may yet be feeling the side effects of the 33 miles on MLK day. I tend to be OK for a few hours and then I suddenly feel like I've been run over and need to sleep. This, like the pain I feel on runs, comes in cycles. So today, tomorrow and maybe Monday I plan to sleep, eat, and rest. Sunday is the Super Bowl (go Giants) and I plan to reap the benefits of doing nothing.
I'm pleased to announce that we are over $250 on our fundraising! However, our goal is $10,000. So maybe we won't celebrate just yet. Run hard, take it easy.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Anorexia Athletica
Yesterday I ran in the Mardi Gras Mambo 10k. I was curious to see what would result from doing nothing but long distance training. Well, I didn't set any kind of PR (I finished just under 37), but the good news is that I never felt tired or exhausted at any point in the run. Since I haven't really done any speed work since November, I just wasn't fast enough to stay up front. Don't get me wrong, I'm irritated that I wasn't in the top five, but the race showed me that I am in shape...just for 33+ miles, not 6.2.
I just started a new book about ultra-running by Pam Reed. In it she talks about how she's struggled with anorexia athletica, which is basically anorexia for the sake of being competitive in a sport. Throughout the book she lists 10 or 12 criteria that you need to meet to be clinically diagnosed. While going through the list I realized that with the exception of two or three, I meet all the criteria. Now, not to slight the seriousness of anorexia (or any eating disorder), but I think it's kind of funny that I fall into this category. I've always joked about being neurotic about running, but there's just no way I'm anorexic. I always mentally take note of what I'm about to eat and then compute that into how it will affect training for today and tomorrow, but I don't usually curtail what I plan to eat unless there is a race the next day. Anywho, it's a fascinating book and is making me take a whole new look at my nutrition for this race, and in general. Not that I plan to make any profound changes, but if you're an information nerd like me, it's cool to read.
We met with the BR Tri club yesterday. I'm not sure exactly how well I was received, but I did speak to the entire club, left a handfull of fliers, and did get a solid promise from one member to "hook us up."
I've got a run at four today with a friend. We'll probably get about an hour and a half. It's been a struggle this week to keep from running and rest after my six hour run on Monday. Next week looks sunny...can't wait.
I just started a new book about ultra-running by Pam Reed. In it she talks about how she's struggled with anorexia athletica, which is basically anorexia for the sake of being competitive in a sport. Throughout the book she lists 10 or 12 criteria that you need to meet to be clinically diagnosed. While going through the list I realized that with the exception of two or three, I meet all the criteria. Now, not to slight the seriousness of anorexia (or any eating disorder), but I think it's kind of funny that I fall into this category. I've always joked about being neurotic about running, but there's just no way I'm anorexic. I always mentally take note of what I'm about to eat and then compute that into how it will affect training for today and tomorrow, but I don't usually curtail what I plan to eat unless there is a race the next day. Anywho, it's a fascinating book and is making me take a whole new look at my nutrition for this race, and in general. Not that I plan to make any profound changes, but if you're an information nerd like me, it's cool to read.
We met with the BR Tri club yesterday. I'm not sure exactly how well I was received, but I did speak to the entire club, left a handfull of fliers, and did get a solid promise from one member to "hook us up."
I've got a run at four today with a friend. We'll probably get about an hour and a half. It's been a struggle this week to keep from running and rest after my six hour run on Monday. Next week looks sunny...can't wait.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Post Trial Run
The aftershock of Monday's 33-mile run has been surprisingly minor. There was a small issue with shinsplints and with a little stiffness, but other than that, recovery has been a breeze. Although, I have noticed I've been extra sleepy earlier and earlier each evening. This week has been mostly rest and cross-training on the bike, so no major training to report.
I've noticed that I don't associate very well with people of my generation. I've seen this in two ways: First is that I just don't buy into their culture. The music sucks, they are on the whole very lazy and without respect, and are perpetually focused on self-gratification. Second is that nobody runs! I know, that doesn't mean much coming from somebody who is neurotic about it. However, my running is more a function of getting out and doing something. It seems less and less I see that desire to get out and do something positive (for the community or yourself).
**steps down from soap box**
Had a great run this morning. You ever feel like your legs are operating separately from your body? Yeah, that's how this morning was. I've got a meeting with the Baton Rouge Triathlon club tomorrow...hope I'm received well. Also, Dave is trying to get me to see the new Rambo movie. Talk about lame. Peace.
I've noticed that I don't associate very well with people of my generation. I've seen this in two ways: First is that I just don't buy into their culture. The music sucks, they are on the whole very lazy and without respect, and are perpetually focused on self-gratification. Second is that nobody runs! I know, that doesn't mean much coming from somebody who is neurotic about it. However, my running is more a function of getting out and doing something. It seems less and less I see that desire to get out and do something positive (for the community or yourself).
**steps down from soap box**
Had a great run this morning. You ever feel like your legs are operating separately from your body? Yeah, that's how this morning was. I've got a meeting with the Baton Rouge Triathlon club tomorrow...hope I'm received well. Also, Dave is trying to get me to see the new Rambo movie. Talk about lame. Peace.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
"Do You Need Help?"
Funny story. Dave, Brian, and I were on the Natchez Trace on Monday doing our first trial run. Our goal was to run at least five hours, but no more than six. So while we near hour five we get a white truck that pulls up next to us. A lady stuck her head out and said, "Is everything OK? Do you need help?" I think her statement sums up what we're trying to do in a pinch.
So while on the Trace we covered a little over 32 miles and did it in five hours 54 minutes. Not bad. I averaged a little over five mph, which is perfect. We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day. This is how she broke down:
I took off the two days before the test run and carbo-loaded. The night before I had pasta and two granola bars with peanut butter.
I was up at five Monday morning to pack, fold laundry, and get my food ready. While getting ready I mellowed out to David Alan Coe on the iPod.
Brian showed up first so we began packing to head out at seven, but where was Dave. I don't really mind waiting for Dave because his responses are classic. When I called him I didn't even get to say anything before he cut me off with, "I'm coming!"
We finally got on the road a little after seven and rocked out to Jane's Addiction and Soundgarden (metal for the soul). When we arrived in Natchez it was cold. The weather channel had been calling for a wind chill in the 20's all day, but I'm not sure it was actually every that bad. We did see lots of ice and even some snow, but it warmed up throughout the day and wasn't bad at all.
The Toughest Hour: Hour four was brutal. It was right after our turn around point and my thighs were killing. Dave and Brian kept talking to me trying to keep my mind wandering, but it was still a struggle. They didn't know, but I was honestly fighting tooth and nail to keep from stopping to walk.
What Didn't Work: We discovered the GU gels are a fatal move to make. They ripped my stomach to pieces and I was cramping towards the end. In short, they're too sweet...even when taken in portions and cut with water.
What Did Work: Peanuts and Cliff bars. Peanuts were a God send. At one point I didn't want to eat anything, but I was trying to get something down every 15 minutes. I forced down a handful of peanuts and the results were instant. The quick infusion of salt (pretzels worked too) did wonders for the body.
For Next Time: More solid, "normal" foods. I've been focusing so much on energy packed gels and bars that I may have overlooked the importance of simple things like bananas, PB&J's, and potatos. Also need to try Pedialyte. We had it for this run, but because of the state of my stomach, never got to try it. Ultimately my caloric intake needs to be amped up a great deal. We did the math and I wasn't eating nearly enough. I may try chowing down an hour before my next trial.
All in all, a good trial. I was disappointed that I was starting to crash so fast at the end, but Dave made a good call. He told me that our goal was five hours and to get as close to 30 miles as possible. We reached that goal. Get over feeling down.
Tonight I talked at the LSU-TRI club meeting about the run. I got a great response and some contacts that are willing to help out in the future. Also picked up a few poor saps that want to help train with me. Our next trial is February 17 and is scheduled for 8-9 hours. We'll have pictures up of this week's trial soon, I hope. Until then, carry on my wayward son.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Sick Day: The Return of the Brady
Yesterday I ran a beautiful two hour route and felt great. I felt like I could have kept going for another two hours on just my runner's high. After getting home, having a giant plate of Pork Lo Mein, and heading off to bed, my body began doing odd things...and it didn't have anything to do with my Midichlorian count (a little Star Wars reference for all you Lucas disciples). I never could fully fall asleep, my nose was runny, I kept coughing and rolling over all night...blah. So this morning I promptly went to the store and bought a whole nuclear arsenal of cold medicine. I'm over this being sick thing. I made sure to keep myself adequately "doped" up all day and it seems to have done the trick; although, tonight will be the true test.
I just finished a phenomenal two and a half hour run with no problems whatsoever. It's days like these that make me think this race isn't going to be anything at all. Let's hope.
I just finished a phenomenal two and a half hour run with no problems whatsoever. It's days like these that make me think this race isn't going to be anything at all. Let's hope.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Sick Day: The Empire Strikes Back
A very wise friend once told me, "It's all fun and games until someone loses an eye or gets pregnant. Then no amount of "I'm sorry" will fix anything." Well, fortunately, I have both my eyes and I'm not pregnant...but that's about all that's been going well for me lately. My sick day turned into a sick week. Big Dave tried to argue the point that if I'm feeling crappy then I should take the day off and wait for a more productive day to train. My reasoning, however, was that the very essence of this race is that it's going to suck, so I need to be familiar with pushing through feelings of "I'm over it." So I've continued to push through it up until about a day ago. I was barely able to run longer that 45 minutes without tapping into my gels for energy.
Today makes the second day of no physical activity and I'll probably wait till late tomorrow to try and get in an easy 30 min run. I've also been fighting some brutal shin splints in my right leg. Ice and Asprin are all I have for that ailment, but hopefully this three day hiatus will ease that too. Also tomorrow I've got a meeting with Pat Fellows to try and get down to the fine details of raising money. The whole media blitz is pending briefly, just until we can get a few more things organized. As for now, I'm back to my bottle of NyQuil and a copy of Star Wars. Peace.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Sick Day
Today I am packing up and driving to Baton Rouge where I'll spend the rest of my time training. I'm very excited because its training ground that I'm use to, which makes getting ready for race day almost seamless. I've had an excellent string of runs the past few days. I know that I won't be able to run any faster than about five mph on race day, but I've been training at about seven mph for between two and three hours. Yesterday was tough, though. I didn't have a fever, but it was one of those days where your body just shuts down. I was tired, had a headache, and thought I maybe was coming down with the flu. I was probably just a little dehydrated. However, as I finish this blog I'm rolling out the door to get in some miles, probably about 20...or at least 3 hours.
Happy running...and check out the Teaser Trailer link on the right. It's only a minute long and, I think, is pretty motivating.
Happy running...and check out the Teaser Trailer link on the right. It's only a minute long and, I think, is pretty motivating.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Home Again
We're back from St. Louis. As much as I enjoyed running up north, I'm glad to be back to a climate that I'm familiar with. The cold didn't bother me so much (it never got much warmer than 32), but the wind kicked my butt. Few things are more demoralizing that running headlong into an icy wind for an hour and a half. So I'll stay in Alexandria till the 4th and then head down to Baton Rouge where I'll finish most of the rest of my training. I miss running the lakes at LSU. I've run them so many times that its not unusual for me to run the whole thing and not be able to remember any of the run.
Just got the Black Sabbath live reunion CD for Christmas. Let's not even pretend like that won't be on my playlist for those early morning runs.
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