Monday, January 27, 2014

Gearing up for the John Dick Memorial "Crusty" 50k Feb 1

When it comes to running outside in the winter I am worthless and weak. One reason could be that I have a very high sweat rate, so tend to create a lot of ice between layers, the other reason is that I actually like running on the treadmill.

I think I have run outside twice since December 1st, not that I have run inside much either. So why not sign up for a 50k trail race? Since weighing in at #260 Christmas week, I have been startng to train again. The last 5 weeks my mileage: 39.25 / 53.75 / 73.0 / 86.75 / 105.25. This weekend I did 2 decent treadmill runs; 32 miles on Saturday and 17 miles on Sunday.

I am just hoping to finish the race and if I can break 6 hours I will be happy.

Good running to all!

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Update 1/22/14

It has been a long time since my last post. I did run the Glacial 50 mile race (October 13th) to get my Western States qualifying race. I ran a 1 minute negative split on the out and back course in 9:32:27. I do not think I could have run much faster for the shape I was in.

I failed to gain entry into Western States in the lottery.

I pretty much took most the rest of October, November and December off. But then something stange happened, I could barely tie my shoes. Many months of eating and beer drinking make my belly big enough that it was a real chore to reach those laces. Christmas I tipped the scales at 260 pounds. Enough is enough!

Although I do not plan on training "hard" or ever approaching my previous fitness level ... I have have to run. I have come up with a new plan that involves many activities other than running, but includes running almost every day. Well, to be honest, it is hobby jogging or gallow-walking at this time.

We have been downhill skiing when we can find the time for the 90 minute drive to Wausau's Granite Peak, so far 11 times this year. I have started playing racquetball again once or twice a week. Occassionally playing volleyball at the YMCA on pickup night and Walleyball with the family a few times a month. Next up is cross country skiing and snow shoeing.

So the bottom line is I will run, but less volume and less seriously. I will race, but slower and less seriously. I will post, occassionally.

Current weight #248 ... I can now tie my shoes again without straining.

Good running to all!