The Year in Review

I started 2012 with pulled hamstrings on both sides and repulled the right hamstring in mid-February.  Even though I had to skip some marathons that I had signed up for and switched to half marathon in others, I still managed to complete 3 marathons by spring.  This fall, I have completed 2-50K's and 5 marathons.  That gives me a total of 10 marathons or longer for 2012.  While I did not complete as many marathons as I would have liked, I ran everyday in 2012 and completed 55 races of various distances.
Tomorrow, I am running the Texas Marathon in Kingwood (near Houston) for the 6th straight year.  The weather forecast calls for a 80 percent chance of rain at the start and a temperature of 50+ during the race.  Jim Simpson from California is scheduled to be there and run his 1,000th marathon.  Also, Larry Macon of San Antonio.  Yesterday, he broke his own world record after completing his 157th marathon in 2012.  Tomorrow, will be my 90th marathon in my life time.  I may have the most marathons on my block, but I have to put it in perspective.  It is absolutely amazing what people can accomplish.
This afternoon, I went to the track and ran laps in the rain, resting up for tomorrow.

Trails

In between football games this afternoon, I went out to the park and ran 3+ miles on the trails.

Roads

I ran 2.6 miles on the roads in town this afternoon.  It was 49 degrees, but felt colder.

Would Have Been

It dawned on me today that yesterday would have been completion of a 10-year running streak - if that darn doctor had not misdiagnosed my knee problem in October 2009 and made me miss those 4 days.  Oh well, I'll just be a lot older when I reach the 10-year mark.  It was late when I got around to running today.  I worked out at Nautilus and then went to the track and ran laps in the cold wind.

Cold and Rainy

The group was suppose to meet up at the park this evening.  However, it was cold and rainy.  So, it was just me and my visiting, son, George.  I ran 3 miles on the roads and George ran 3.5 on the trails and was waiting at the truck when I finished.

More Family

We had more family in today and again, I ate too much.  It was very cold today, but I did get in a 2.4-mile run on the roads in town this afternoon.  It is really nice running the roads with so little traffic.

Merry Christmas

We had storms early this morning and 20 mph winds most of the day.  This afternoon, the temperature dropped rapidly and it is suppose to get down to 28F tonight.  Before family started arriving early this afternoon for a Christmas celebration, I went into town and ran 3 miles on the roads.

Queasy

Except for sinus infections every couple of years, I have not been sick since I started streaking.  However, my stomach felt queasy most of day and I laid around.  I ran 1.6 miles on the roads this evening and felt better tonight.  I have relatives coming in for Christmas tomorrow.  Sure do not want to be in bed.

Empty Streets

When I went out to run the streets in town today, the streets were nearly empty.  I think that everyone at Wal-Mart.  In any case, I ran a 2-mile loop.  I have another marathon to run on January 1, so I will take it easy until then.  That's whats nice about running a marathon every week or so.  No long boring training runs.  Tonight, I signed up for the Seabrook Lucky Trail Marathon on March 17.

Looking Up

Things are looking up.  The world did not end yesterday and starting today, the days are getting longer.  The results of yesterday's marathon (actually 28 miles) were posted today.  My time was 7:45:49.  I was very surprized that I was 3rd of 7 in my 70 and over age group.  Overall, I placed 310 out of 334 finishers.  I felt good today and went over to the track this afternoon and ran laps.

End of the World Marathon

I am almost too tired and sleepy to write this report.  I drove down to Humble near Houston this morning for the End of the World Marathon.  It was a one-time race, but they are having the Day After the End of the World Marathon tomorrow at the same place.  Except for about 1 tenth of a mile, the entire race was held off road.  High grass, ruts, mud, rocks, roots, deep sand, some nice hard ground.  The course was 4 loops of 6.55 miles.  My goal was to finish without spraining an ankle and I accomplished that goal.  During the race, I visited with Larry Macon of San Antonio.  He is the world record holder for the most marathons in one year.  He said that he will break his old record this year with 150!  That's about 3 a week.  How do you find that many and get to them?  I also visited with Yolanda Holder of California.  She is the female record holder (no pun intended).  She said that she will break her own record this year with 120.  While I did not meet him, Jim Simpson was also at the race.  He is closing in on 1,000 lifetime marathons.  These people are amazing.  I am a wimp with 89 lifetime.  Had a lot of other friends at the race and it was great visiting with them on the course and after the race.  While few people seem to care, the course was long.  I knew that after completing my first loop.  The consensus of the runners with a GPS was that the course was 28 miles, rather that 26.2.  That extra distance and going slow to avoid an ankle sprain gave me an excuse to run about 7:45:00.  The finisher medal was 1.1 pounds.  Tomorrow, I will take a photo of it and post it here.

Easy Day

With a marathon tomorrow, I took it easy today.  I went to the track this evening, ran laps and then worked out at Nautilus.  It is suppose to be near freezing tomorrow morning, but get up to about 60 by the time I finish.

Not Bad News

One of the phone calls I was waiting on yesterday was the results of the lab work following my colonoscopy last Thursday.  The found something, did a biopsy and sent it to the lab.  Found out this morning that it was not cancer.  However, it is an ulcer in my colon and the doctor wants to see me on January 2.  So, that's not bad news.
The temperature was up to 80 degrees this afternoon in Huntsville.  Someone said that it is a record for December 19.  However, a storm is headed this way later tonight and a cold front will follow.  That's good news for my marathon down in Humble on Friday.  I heard that the new Mexican restaurant had opened on the Intersate service road.  I was running errands this morning and stopped by there at 11 a.m. to check to see if they had a meeting room for our running club meeting in January.  While I was there, I decided to eat.  Turns out, it just opened and I was their first customer.  I don't know if that it an honor, but I sure got good service.
It was late before I got to Nautilus this evening and was nearly dark before I started running on the streets in the avenues.  My course ended up being 3 miles.  I have become leary of running the streets after dark, with so many distracted drivers.

Late Start

I was tied up this afternoon waiting on some important phone calls and did not get to Nautilus until after 5 this evening.  After my workout, I went to the track and ran laps.

Signed up for next year's BCS Marathon

Late last night, I took advantage of an early bird special and signed up for the BCS Marathon next December.  If all goes well and the world does not end this Friday, it should be close to marathon number 100.  The End of the World Marathon this Friday will be number 89.
I mowed my grass today, hopefully for the last time until next Spring.  This evening, I ran an unplanned route in the avenues, even ran a street that I had never ran before.  The course turned out to be 2.2 miles.

Run between Games

I went out to the park and ran 3 miles on the park roads during the last part of the Texans game and the first part of the Cowboys game.  Apparently, my missing parts of both games did not hurt the teams.  They both won.

Willis Wildkat 5K

I drove about 30 minutes down south for the Willis Wildkat 5K this morning.  I helped them get this race started and have run it all 7 years.  I finished in 35:28, second in my age group.  Marilynn went down with me and walked the course.  She was first in her age group.

Short Road Run

Before doing yard work most of the afternoon, I ran errands and 1.3 miles on the roads in town.  5K race tomorrow.

Waterway Jingle Bell Run

I got to the hospital at 7:30 this morning for my colonoscopy.  I woke up in the recovery room a little after 9 and was out of the hospital an hour later.  I will not know the final results for a few days.  Boy, was I hungry by the time I got home.  This evening, I went down to The Woodlands to run the Waterway Jingle Bell Run.  This is a 3.5-mile, non-competitive, untimed run on the lighted walkway along the waterway in The Woodlands Mall.  It is beautifully decorated at Christmas.  My intention was to only run 2 miles.  However, I felt okay and ran the whole thing.  My time was 47:44.

Not a fun day

I am preparing for a Colonoscopy tomorrow morning, so today was not a fun day.  Excuse me, I will be back in a minute. - - - - - - Okay, I'm back.  However, I did manage to run laps at the track this afternoon and get in a quick workout at Nautilus.  With nothing but clear liquids all day, I am starving tonight.  I watched TV some, but all they had were food commercials.

Couple Miles

I ran a couple miles on the park roads this evening.  Then, a quick shower, dinner and off to an running club officer meeting to plan our event schedule for 2013.

Hot to Cold

It is hard to believe it was 80 degrees yesterday and the high today was 54.  Tonight, it is suppose to get down to 30.  After the marathon in the heat yesterday, I rested much of today.  This evening, I worked out at Nautilus and then ran laps at the track.  I feel fully recovered.

BCS Marathon

I ran the BCS Marathon in College Station this morning.  Hot and humid.  I ran the whole thing, except for walking through the aid stations and taking on plenty of fluids.  My hydration seemed to be okay, but I did drink 3 bottles of water on the way back to Huntsville after the race.  The race director said that 10 runners were transported to the hospital.  Luckily, the storm and rains held off until later this evening.  The course was mostly flat and much of the surface concrete.  A lady working at one of the aid stations, said:  "You ran this last year, I remember your knee."  I'm glad I am known for something.  I finished in 6:17:54 and received a second medal for 3rd place in the 70 and Over age group.  This was a well-managed race.  A long sleeve race T-shirt, plenty of great aid stations, nice finisher medal, finisher T-shirt and lots of food and drinks after the race.

Marathon Expo

I ran laps this morning and then went over to College Station to pick up my packet for the BCS Marathon tomorrow and visit the Expo.  Nice to visit with some friends there.  The temperature at the start is suppose to be 69 degrees, with 93% humidity and a 20% chance of rain.  By the time I finish, it will be 80 degrees, 63% humidity and a 45% chance of rain.  It should be an interesting day.  I just want to get it over with - and not be struck by lightning.

Another taper

With the 50K last Saturday and a marathon this Sunday, I have had an easy week.  Peaked out at 3 miles.  I ran 1.9 miles on the roads in town this evening.  I have to go 50 miles over to College Station tomorrow to get my race packet for Sunday.

Alone at the Park

After working out at Nautilus, I went out to the park to meet up with the group.  I was the group.  With the park being closed for part of this week, I assume that everyone else thought the park was still closed.  So, I ran 3 miles on the park roads.  This evening, I had a meeting at my house with our running club president, Darren Grant, and Willie Fowlkes of The Woodlands to discuss a new 10-mile race in Huntsville next April 6 as part of a new Texas 10 Series.

Ran out of time

I got started late on my Nautilus and running routine this evening.  I ended up only having time for a 1.3-mile road run before having to get home, showered, dressed and off to my wife's 6 p.m. Master Gardener annual dinner.  And, I ate too much. 

Park closed early today

The park closed at 5 p.m. today and will reopen on Thursday.  For several weeks each year in December and January, they close for controlled hunting.  I would not want to be a squirell at Huntsville State Park for the next couple of days.  I went out there earlier this afternoon and ran 3 miles on the park roads.  Scott and James were out there running.

Back to my Bug

I am having transmission problems on my truck and had to take it in to the dealership early this morning and leave it for a few days.  So, I had to get out my 74 VW Bug Convertible for transportation.  It's been in the garage collecting dust for a year with a For Sale sign in the window.  In fact, I have not driven it for six months.  I spent a part of the day getting it inspected and cleaning it up. 
Since I ran 34.1 miles this weekend, I took today off and ran 1.3 miles on the roads in a brand new pair of running shoes.  The old ones were completely worn out.  I first wore them on the 6th of November, so they lasted less than a month.  And, I wore an old pair of shoes for the 50K trail run on Saturday and the 5K on Sunday.  Maybe I need to start running barefooted.

Sunday Night 5K

I went down to The Woodlands this evening and ran the Sunday Night 5K.  I finished in 37:08.  Last month, I ran the same race the day after the Rocky Raccoon 50K and finished in 37:58.  So, I made a little improvement.

Texas Trail 50K

For the 17th consecutive year, I ran the Texas Trail 50K (31 miles) at Huntsville State Park today.  My PR for this race is 6:33:25 (1999 at age 58).  The weather has varied over the years, but it is usually cold.  Sometimes very muddy.  Today, the temperature got up to 80 degress, with humidity in the high 90's.  I felt really drained early in the race and worried a lot about hydration.  I carried a water bottle between aid stations and always emptied it before the next aid station.  I finished in a disappointing 9:46 something, 30 minutes slower than the Rocky Raccoon 50K at the park last month.  I suppose it was the heat.  On the bright side, I only tripped on roots twice and fell down and got to visit with many good friends.  My thinking at this point is to make this my last 50K.  It is just not fun to zig zag and dodge roots for 31 miles.  My wife, Marilynn, came out to the park and was there for my finish.

I am in awe of some people

Since I am running the Texas Trail 50K tomorrow here at Huntsville State Park, I ran laps at the track this afternoon and later went out to the park to pick up my race packet.  Had a nice visit with Roger Soler, the race director, and then ran into my friend from Dallas, Angela Tortorice.  Tomorrow will be her 71st race of a marathon or longer distance - THIS YEAR.  She ran a total of 72 last year and was selected as the Marathon Maniac of the Year.  I am in awe of some people.

Another Day at the Park

In keeping with my taper, I went out to the park this evening and ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Tapering for Saturday

With a 50K on Saturday, I am taking it easy this week.  I ran 1.9 miles on the roads in town this evening, after working out at Nautilus.

Normal Tuesday

As usual, I went out to the park this evening after working out at Nautilus.  I ran 3 miles on the park roads while the others ran trails.  Nice cool weather.

Rest Day

I went over to the track this evening, ran laps and then worked out at Nautilus.  Rest day.

Outer Loop

I went out to the park alone this afternoon and ran the 6.9-mile outer trail loop.  I have run this course a zillion times over the last 18 years or so.  I use to worry about how fast I could run the loop; now that I am over 70 with an accumulation of knee and hamstring problems, I worry about if I will trip on a root and fall.  Only did once today.

Leftover Turkey 10K

Our club held it's annual Leftover Turkey 10K, 5K and 1-Mile Run this morning.  All three races are out and back on the sidewalk along Veterans Memorial Blvd.  There is no level section on the course - all hills.  I finished the 10K in 1:18:51, not a good time, but 10 minutes faster than last year when I was running with pulled hamstrings on both legs.  Next is the Texas Trail 50K here at Huntsville State Park next Saturday.

Park Run

I went out to the park this afternoon and ran 3.5 miles on the trails.  The trails are in good shape, but being a holiday weekend, there were a lot of hikers and bikers on the trails.

Run Thru the Woods 5-Miler

For the 11th consecutive year, I ran the Run Thru the Woods 5-Miler in The Woodlands this morning.  They announced that there were a total of 6,000 runners in all three events.  I finished in 1:00:44.  The good news is that I did not have the sharp pain in my hamstring.  Happy Thanksgiving.

Well rested

I ran laps at the track this afternoon.   So, with short runs all week, I am well-rested for the 5-mile race in The Woodlands tomorrow morning.  No sharp pains in the hamstring today, but the race tomorrow will be a good test.

Okay today

I went out to the park this evening wondering how long I could run without the sharp pain in my hamstring returning.  I took it easy and ended up running 2.3 miles on the trails without pain.  I feel more confident about being able to do the 5-mile race in The Woodlands on Thursday.  This will be my 11th straight year for that race.  My major concern is the 50K on December 1 at Huntsville State Park.  This will be my 17th straight year for that race.

More Pain

I started on a road run this evening and at about a half mile got sharp pains in my right hamstring.  I looped back to the track and finished with a 1.3-mile run.  Now, I am concerned about my upcoming races.  I'll try again tomorrow.

Hamstring pain

I intended to go out to the park this afternoon and run trails after the Texans game, however, the game went into overtime and there was insufficient daylight left to do a long run at the park.  So, I ran an unplanned route on the roads in town.  It turned out to be 2.8 miles.  Toward the end of the run, I had sharp pains in my right hamstring.  Darn.  Hopefully, I just tweaked it.  I will go slow and easy tomorrow and see how it feels.  I sure do not need another hamstring injury in the middle of the marathon season.

Nottingham Forest Club 5K

I ran the Nottingham Forest Club 5K in far west Houston this morning.  The race did not start until 9 a.m., so I did not have to get up too early.  I finished in 34:38 and was 2nd of 3 in the 60 & Over age group.  Luckily, yesterday's pain in my right heel was gone.

Sore Heel

I woke up this morning with a sore right heel.  I think this was the same heel that got so bad a couple years ago that I had to get a cortizone shot.  I treated it Bio-Freeze a couple times today, ran laps at the track this afternoon and it feels better tonight.

Light Crowd at the Park

It seems like some people need to work or go to school.  Every since we moved up our park runs to 4:30 on Tuesday and Thursday, we lost a lot of runners.  Tonight, it was just me, James and Jason.  Hans was also there, but he rode his bike.  James and I ran 2.5 miles on the roads, while Jason ran trails.  Really ideal running weather.

2.9

I feel like I am fully rested up after the marathon last Saturday, but I do not have another long race until the Texas Trail 50K at Huntsville State Park on December 1.  I probably need to go a long trail run a week before the race.
In the meantime, I ran 2.9 miles in the Avenues this evening just before dark.  These days seem so short now.

Back to the Park

After working out at Nautilus this evening, I met up with the group at the park.  I ran 3 miles on the park roads, while everyone else ran trails.  We had a running club business dinner and business meeting at the Asian Star Restaurant this evening.  Since I do not eat chicken or anything out of the water, I had the pepper steak.  I hope it was beef.

Change of Plans

After working out at Nautilus this evening, I was driving to the track to run roads from there.  My left rear tire suddenly went flat.  I pulled off into a parking lot to put on a spare.  I found the jack that came with the truck, but it was light and flimsy.  It took forever to jack it up and then it fell off the jack.  Finally got it up the second time and got the tire off.  Then, the special tool needed to remove the spare was not there.  I called my wife to come to picked me up with the flat.  I raced across town to Discount Tire and made it there just as they were closing at 6 p.m.  The tire had a hole in the side and they replaced the tire.  I returned to the truck and put on the new tire and then drove to the track.  I had to be somewhere at 7:30, so I only had time to run laps at the track before getting home for a shower.  Tomorrow, I am buying a new jack and going to the Ford dealership to find out why I did not have the tool to remove the spare.

Soldier Marathon

I flew to Atlanta on Friday and then drove to Columbus, Georgia for the Soldier Marathon at Fort Benning on Saturday.  When I arrived in Columbus, I ran a mile+ on the downtown streets around my hotel. 
It was in the 30's at Fort Benning at the 7 a.m. race start on Saturday, but warmed up quickly during the race.  The first 7 miles of the marathon went through Fort Benning.  At about mile 2, we ran up a long steep hill.  They had drill sergeants on both sides of the road offering kind words of encouragement.  Nice touch.  After the run through Fort Benning, we ran on a paved trail along the river to downtown Columbus.  Then, we made a loop around downtown Columbus and then followed the river back to Fort Benning to complete the 26.2 mile run.  I ran the first half with Dorsey, 19, from Columbus.  She was running her first marathon.  I finished in 6:26:42 and she finished in just under 7 hours.  Congratulations, Dorsey.
I got back to Huntsville about 5 this evening and went to the track and ran laps.
Since it is Veteran's Day today, I will include the above 1983 photo from Fort Hood, Texas. Darn, time goes by fast.

Down to Two

With a marathon on Saturday, I cut my run to 2 miles on the roads at the park this evening.

Ran 3 today. Now time to taper.

I ran 3 miles on the roads in town this evening and now it is time to taper for the marathon this Saturday.

Out of the Box

I last used that title for my post on September 27, about 6 weeks ago.  The Asics Fortitude 5's I started wearing on September 27 are completely worn out.  At $100 a pair, that makes running an expensive pursuit.  During that 6 weeks, I only ran 2 road marathons and a trail 50K.  Maybe I need to start running barefoot.
I felt a little better today and ran 2 miles on the park roads this evening in the new shoes. 

Not Feeling Well

It is not often that I do not feel well.  Since the 50K on Saturday, my stomach has been hurting.  I woke up early this morning and could not go back to sleep.  My friend, Paul Stone, who directed the Rocky Raccoon Trail Run on Saturday, had to go back home to Tyler before removing all the flagging from the trails at Huntsville State Park.  So, I went out there this morning and walked about 2 miles of trails and removed the flagging.  I layed around much of the day, but I did go to the track this afternoon and run laps. Later, I went to Nautilus for a light workout.

Sunday Night 5K

For the 33rd time, I went down to The Woodlands this evening for the Sunday Night 5K, put on by The Woodlands Running Club.  Bill Dwyer and Mary Carter always do a great job with this race.  I finished in 37:58.  I felt reasonably well after the 50K yesterday.  At least, there were no roots on the concrete walkway.  Not a single fall during the entire 5K.

Rocky Raccoon 50K

I got up at 4:30 this morning and got out to Huntsville State Park for a 6 a.m. start of the Rocky Raccoon 50K.  This was the 12th straight year I have run the Rocky Raccoon 25K or 50K  The weather was clear, but it was unusally hot for this race.  We ran with flashlights for the first hour.  I finished in 9:22:36, a far cry from my 6:35:25 50K PR a few years ago.  I tripped on roots and fell several times and my body is sore tonight.  It is really frustrating.  It's not the roots you see, it's the ones hidden by pine needles and leaves.  I looked like Pig Pen when I finished.  Anyway, this was my 20th 50K race and I have another one on Dec. 1 and a trail marathon in February.  Maybe, I will retire from trail running after that and stick to smooth roads.

Getting Ready

I ran laps at the track this afternoon and then went out to Huntsville State Park this evening, first to pick up my packet for the Rocky Raccoon 50K tomorrow morning and then to set up our running club's aid station on the back side of the park.  Phillip and Donna and her two sons and I drove back there and set everything up.  It always seems odd driving the jeep trails that I have run so many times.

Resting Up

We had a nice crowd at the park this evening, including Karen, who ran with us and left town 3 years ago.  She was back for a visit to Huntsville.  Good to see her.  I am resting up for my 50K on Saturday, so I just ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Houston Most of the Day

I had to take my son down to Houston late this morning for major surgery on his finger to reattach some tendons and insert a pin.  I did not get back to Huntsville until after 8 tonight and went over to the track and ran laps after 10 tonight.

Park Roads

I ran 3 miles on the park roads this evening, tapering for the 50K on Saturday.

Loop Around Town

After working out at Nautilus this evening, I drove to the track and ran an unplanned loop on the streets around town.  The distance turned out to be 3.4 miles and I finished as it was getting dark.  Nice cool weather.

Anniversary

Today, my wife and I celebrated our 45th wedding anniversary.  I went to the track this afternoon and ran laps.  Tonight, we went to The Woodlands, met our son there, and had dinner.

Huntsville Half Marathon

I ran the Huntsville Half Marathon this morning and finished the 13.1-mile distance in 2:52:34, about 5 minutes faster than last year.  The weather was perfect, but it is very hilly course.  The tentative race results show that I finished 2 of 3 in the 70 and Over age group.  This is our running club's big annual event and we had well over 400 registered runners.  I have directed or run this race virtually every year since 1985 and have gotten to know so many of the regulars.  So, I look forward to this race every year, because it gives me the opportunity to visit with so many friends.

Rainy Day

It rained much of the day.  I voted and then went to the running club's storage facility to pick up signs and other stuff for our half marathon tomorrow morning.  Then, I got in a 1.3-mile run on the roads in town.  Tomorrow, I will get up early, load up my truck and set up the finish line and race clock before running the race.  It is suppose to be 45 degrees and windy at race time.

Park Roads with Scholar

I ran 3 miles on the park roads with Scholar this evening, while the others ran trails.  I am running our Huntsville Half Marathon this Saturday and the high temperature on Saturday is suppose to be 64, compared to the high 80's today.

Late Start

I did yard work this afternoon and got a late start on my workout at Nautilus and run.  I managed to get in a 2.8-mile run on the streets in town before total darkness.

Not Sure What to Do

With a marathon 9 days ago, a half marathon this weekend, a 50K the next weekend and then a marathon the next weekend, I am not sure whether to train, taper or what.  So, I ran 2 miles on the park roads this evening, while everyone else ran trails.

Signed up for the Soldier Marathon

I signed up for the Soldier Marathon at Fort Benning, Georgia, on November 10.  It will be 7 days after the Rocky Raccoon 50K (31 miles), but I should be recovered by then.  Gosh, I have not been to Fort Benning since Paratrooper School there in 1967, a few months before going to Vietnam.  I really do not expect to run into any old Army buddies there.  I retired from the Army in 1984 and most everyone in the Army came in after that.  Maybe I can go jump out of an airplane after the marathon.
After working out at Nautilus this evening, I ran the hilly Avenues 5K course.

Sunday Off

I took today off and just ran laps at the track this afternoon.

First Trail Run in Awhile

I went out to the park about noon and ran 9 miles on the trails.  I tripped on a root and fell and skinned up my left knee, which was barely healed from the last time.  I think it was the same well-camoflauged root.  I think I will bring an axe with me next time and take care of that root for good.  The temperature was in the low 80's, but it was tolerable.  Tonight, I went to the Sam Houston State/McNeese football game here in Huntsville.  Sam won 45-10.

Signed up for Love.Run.Marathon

I just signed up for the Love.Run.Marathon (formerly Orphan Hope Marathon) on the trails at Huntsville State Park on February 9, 2013. 
For the first time in a while, I do not have a race this weekend. 
I spent most of the day today making new turn signs for our club's Huntsville Half Marathon on October 27.  This evening, I ran 2 miles on the roads in town and then went to Nautilus for a workout.

Three Years

Today marked 3 years on my current running streak.  A group of us met up this evening and ran one 6.55-mile loop of the Huntsville Half Marathon (Oct. 27) course.  Nice run, except that the traffic was heavy due to the Sam Houston State homecoming parade near the course.

Roads

After working out at Nautilus this evening, I ran an unplanned route on the roads in town.  It turned out to be 2.6 miles.

Back to Normal

It was back to a routine workout at Nautilus this evening and then a run at the state park.  It was raining and only James, Phillip, Jacob, Jason and myself showed up.  James and I ran 2 miles on the park roads while the others ran trails.

Mother Road Marathon

I ran laps at the track last Friday morning and then drove to Wylie (near Dallas) and spent the rest of the day with my son and his family.  On Saturday morning, I drove up to Joplin, Missouri for the Mother Road Marathon on Sunday.  It stormed Saturday night but quit raining in time for the marathon.  I caught the shuttle bus at 6:05 to take me to the starting line in Commerce, Oklahoma.  Some of the roads were so blocked off by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol that they would not let the shuttle bus full of runners take the direct route to the starting line.  We had to detour through some other cities and did not get to the start line until 7:25.  The race was suppose to start at 7:30.  So, in 5 minutes, we had to get to the porta potty and the drop bag truck.  Luckily, the motorcycle cop who was to lead the race was in the porta potty.  So, they delayed the race 5 minutes.  There were just under 200 runners in the marathon and I have no idea how many in the half marathon and 5K.  The temperature was in the 60's and 70's and strong winds, luckily most of the time behind us.  The course went through the northeast corner of Oklahoma, across the southeast corner of Kansas and on into Joplin, on the old Route 66.  We went through five cities.  I ran the whole thing (although slowly), except for brief stops at the aid stations to take on fluids.  I finished in 6:16:20, a few minutes slower than the Tyler Rose Marathon the previous Sunday.  Maybe it was mental, but I seemed to have more pains and a tougher time.  In any case, I was 1st in my age group (the only one) and received a nice trophy.
After the race, I drove a 140+ miles down to Fort Smith, Arkansas and had dinner with an old buddy that I had went to school with at Subiaco Academy in Subiaco, Arkansas in 1956 and 57.  I have seen him since 1958.  We had a great time recalling those days, old girlfriends and classmates.
I spent the night in Fort Smith and then this morning, drove 40+ miles to Subiaco Academy, which is located in a monastery.  I went up to the lake, where we use to hang out and then to the monastery.  It is a beautiful place up on a hill.  My wife and I walked the grounds and were greeted by one of the maintenance workers and a member of the faculty.  We were escorted up to the Abbot's office, who heads the monastery and the academy.  We received a very warm greeting and had a nice visit with him.  He was a student at the academy while I was there.  Also, one of the Brothers at the academy was called to meet with us, because he was a student at the Academy when I was there.  It has been over 50 years since I was there, so I was due for a visit.
We drove down through the mountains in western Arkansas on our way back home.  It took a while, but the drive is worth it.  We finally made it back to Huntsville a little after 9 tonight.  At 10 p.m., I went to the track and ran laps.  I will sleep well tonight.

Easy Week

With another marathon coming up on Sunday, I continued with an easy week.  James and I ran 3 miles on the roads at the park, while the others ran trails.

Back to Hot Weather

It is hard to believe that it was in the 50's just a few days ago.  It was back up to 87 this afternoon.  I ran an unplanned route on the roads in town this evening.  It ended up being 2.7 miles.  Somebody asked me today what I was training for.  Nothing.  I am resting for the next marathon on Sunday.

Signed Up for the Texas Trail Endurance Run 50K

I just signed up for the Texas Trail Endurance Run 50K (31 miles) to be held at Huntsville State Park on December 1.  This is the replacement run for the Sunmart 50K held there for 19 years.  I ran the Sunmart 50K for its last 13 years and the Texas Trail Endurance Run 50K for all 3 years.  So, this will be my 17th straight.  Roger Soler always does a great job putting on this race - and I don't have to travel far to get there.  It's like running in my backyard.
Today, I felt fully recovered from the marathon on Sunday.  I know that I am probably not, so I ran only 2 miles on the roads at the park this evening.

Catching Up

Friday, October 5 - I ran laps at the track and then drove to Wylie (northeast of Dallas).

Saturday, October 6 - Got up early and ran the St. Anthony Fall Fest 5K.  Finished in 36:11 and was 2nd in my age group.  The temperature was in the low 50's.  Later on Saturday, I drove 100 miles over to Tyler.

Sunday, October 7 - I ran the Tyler Rose Marathon.  This was my 83rd marathon or longer and the first since recovering from the hamstring pulls and tears from July 2011 to February 2012.  The race was little late getting started.  The head timing guy had stopped for coffee in Canton, Texas and got mugged by a couple guys.  He had two ribs broken and ended up in the hospital.  Others had to travel to Canton to get the timing equipment.  Thus, the race was a little late getting started.  It was overcast all day and the temperature was in the 50's all during the race.  Perfect weather.  When I ran this same marathon two years ago, the temperature was in the high 80's.  The course was very hilly, but I suppose I am use to that.  I ran the whole distance, except for brief walks at the aid stations.  As usual, I had pains here and there during the race (including the hamstrings), but no injuries or blisters.  I finished the first half in 2:58 and the whole marathon in about 6:12.  Apparently, they had more timing system problems and my official finish time is still not posted.  They did tell me that I was 2nd in my age group and gave me a nice trophy, in addition to a finisher medal and a rose bush.

Monday, October 8 -  I slept in this morning and then drove back to Huntsville late this morning.  This evening, I went back to my routine workout at Nautilus.  I was still a little stiff today and ran laps at the track this evening.  No long runs this week and another marathon on Sunday.

New Streak List

Today, I received my quarterly magazine from the U.  S. Running Streak Association,  http://www.runeveryday.com.  I always look forward to reading the many stories about what people have done to keep streaks alive, stories about others who had to break their streak and the many accomplishments of the members of the Association.  I am member 23 of 446.  Great organization!  With my current streak, I am 285 on the list of 384.  That's the same spot as 3 months ago.  Some people ahead of you drop off the list and others with streaks longer than yours are added to the list ahead of you.  So, it is hard to move up.  If I had not broken my streak with the knee problem and taken those four days off in 2009, I would be 149 on the list and approaching 10 years.  I am still upset with the doctor, but that is an old issue.  I may be the only one on the active list with 3 retired streaks, 600 days, 1,811 days and 2,483 days.  I keep coming back for more.
After working out at Nautilus this evening, I met up with the group at the park and ran an easy 2 miles on the park roads.

Tapering

I took it easy this evening and only ran 1.3 miles on the roads in town.  The forecast for cool weather in Tyler for the marathon on Sunday is holding up.  I will need all the help I can get.  I am always anxious about the first marathon of the season.  This year, especially, after all the hamstring problems last year.

Signed up for the Rocky Raccoon 50K

I signed up for the Rocky Raccoon 50K at Huntsville State Park on November 3.  Paul Stone always does a great job putting on this race.  Between now and then, I have 2 marathons and maybe a 3rd and a hilly half marathon here in Huntsville.  Weak hamstrings or not, here I come.
We had a good crowd at the park this evening.  I ran 3 miles on the roads.  Tapering now for my 5K on Saturday and marathon on Sunday.

Ten

After completing a lot of projects at home today, I went to the park and ran 7 miles on the trails and another 3 on the roads, for a total of 10.  Nice dry weather, with a cool breeze.  I just checked the weather forecast for the Tyler Rose Marathon next Sunday.  High of 66.  When I ran it year before last, it was 87.  Just hope the weather man is right on this one.  I am just anxious to get this first marathon of the season done. 

Sunday in the Park

I had a project I had to finish at home, so I went to the Park this morning and ran 3 miles on the roads.  The plan is to get in a long run tomorrow.

Turned Pro

I did not forget to blog yesterday.  My Internet service with AT&T was down all day and night and up until noon today.  I went to the track and ran laps yesterday, as I do on many Fridays.
This morning, I drove about 30 miles down to Montgomery to run the 1st Annual Run to the Son 5K.  It rained all the way down and during the race.  The overall male and female winners were to get $500 cash and first place age group winners $50 and second place age group winners $25.  I was really curious to see how many people would show up for the race.  I guess there were about 100 runners.  I doubt that the fast runners from Houston ever got the word.  I ran the race in 34:43 and won a medal and $50 for first place in the 60 and over age group.  Being 71, I sure never expected to even place in the age group.  The $50 cash prize was nice and I suppose that means I turned pro.
The overall male winner was Jose Torres from our club, who rode down to the race with me.  He finished in 17:23.  He won the $500, plus $50 for his age group.

Out of the Box

I put on a new pair of Asics Fortitude running shoes out of the box today and ran 2-miles on the park roads with Carla and Jenna, while everyone else ran trails.

More Course Measuring

I went out to the state park this afternoon with an engineer wheel and remeasured part of the Love.Run.Marathon course for February.  Someone had removed my markings for the marathon and half marathon turnaround points on the south perimeter road, plus I had to measure for the turnaround point for the new 10K course.  I marked them with the normal flagging, but I also moved some very heavy rocks to the turnaround points.  Maybe someone will be too lazy to move those.  After working out at Nautilus this evening, I ran 2.7 miles on the roads in town.

Running Activities

I had a luncheon meeting today to help a local organization interested in starting a new 5K in Huntsville.  Then, I spent a couple of hours remeasuring part of the Huntsville Half Marathon course.  Walking about 4 miles with an engineer wheel seems harder than running a longer distance.  I finished that in time for a workout at Nautilus and then a 3-mile run on the park roads.

Short Road Run

I felt good this evening, but since I ran long yesterday, I ran only 1.5 miles on the roads in town.

18 Miles and a Spider

I went out to the park late this morning when it was good and hot and ran 10 miles on the park roads and another 8 miles on the trails, for a total of 18.  When I stopped at my truck in the parking lot to rehydrate, I ran into my friend, Karen Felicidario from The Woodlands.  She was also rehydrating between trail loops.  We looked down on the asphalt and there was a spider at our feet.  See Karen's photo above.  The big ball on the spider's back are seemingly hundreds of small baby spiders.  No wonder they say that if you are in Texas that you are never over 3 feet from a spider.

Fall Fun Run 10K

I ran the Fall Fun Run 10K here in Huntsville this morning.  It was our Seven Hills Running Club's monthly club run for September.  In the 27 years of the club's existence, we had the largest number of runners ever for a monthly club run.  We had a total of 88 for the 10K, 5K and 1-Mile.  All three courses are out and back and nothing but hills.  I finished in 1:19:43.  Then, this afternoon, I drove 2 1/2 hours up to Tyler for a family get-together and returned to Huntsville tonight.  Missed all the good football games.

Friday Rest

Since it is Friday and I have a 10K tomorrow morning, I ran 1.8 miles on the roads this afternoon.

Small Group

We had a small group at the park this evening and I ran a 3-mile loop on the trails with a couple other runners.  This 10 degree cooler weather really feels good.  I have lost about 12 pounds this summer and that helps.
Earlier, I received a call from my doctor's office to tell me that the lab results from all my blood work from my annual physical and everything is normal.

Late Night Track Run

Just got home from running a mile at the track about 11 p.m.  My foot felt much better, but the pain was not completely gone. 

Shot in the Foot

I had an appointment with a Podiatrist at 3:30 this afternoon.  Just in case I ended up getting a cortizone shot, I did a one mile+ run in my neighborhood.  He diagnosed the problem as a bruised forefoot from too much pressure on that part of the foot.  He immediately pulled out a long needle and gave me a cortizone shot in the top of my foot just behind the toes.  Then, he told me not to run for 2 days.  My next run will be one mile late tomorrow night at the track.  After that, I have to get in some serious training runs for the marathon in two and a half weeks.

Annual Physical

I went in for my annual physical this afternoon.  All went well, but I have to go in tomorrow morning for the blood work.  My left forefoot is very sore and really hurts after 10 miles or so.  My doctor referred me to a podiatrist, but was not confident about a quick fix before the marathon on October 7.  I will try to get a quick appointment tomorrow.  This evening, I worked out at Nautilus and then ran the hilly Avenues 5K course.

Rain

Sure nice to have the rain today after having virtually none since mid-July.  After watching much football this afternoon, I went to the track and ran roads from there.  It started raining about the same time I started running and never stopped.  I ran an unplanned route and it turned out to be 1.9 miles.  My foot is still hurting, but I have my annual physical tomorrow afternoon.  Maybe the doc can resolve it quickly.  My first marathon of the season is only 3 weeks from today.

Buffalo Stampede 5K

Never got around to posting yesterday.  I got up early and drove to Buffalo for the Buffalo Stampede 5K.  I finished in 35:42 and got first in my age group (I was the only one).  I stopped in Centerville on the way back to Huntsville and had breakfast at the Town Cafe.  When I got home, I took a nap, updated the club web site and then drove to Waco for the Sam Houston State/Baylor football game.  Did not get home until after midnight.

Track Run

Since my foot was sore and I have a race tomorrow morning, I ran laps at the track this afternoon.

Just Rene' and I

We had a very heavy rain this afternoon in Huntsville.  In fact, it was the first rain at my house in over a month.  It was still raining at 6 p.m. when the group is suppose to meet at the park to run trails.  Rene' and I were the only ones to show up.  The heavy lightning had passed so we ran 1.4 miles on the trails and another 1.6 on the park roads, for a total of 3 miles.  She probably had to slow down some to keep up with me.  The trail was slippery in spots, but the cool rain felt good.

Combo

I had intentions of going to the park early this morning, but I never made it until 11 a.m.  I ran a combo of 8.9 miles on the trails and another 3.1 on the park roads for a total of 12.  I started to develop a blister on the bottom of my foot, so I stopped at 12.  I have been trying to run without my custom orthotics, but that looks like it is not working out.  I suppose caluses are better than blisters.

Houston

I had to go down to Houston this afternoon and did not get back in time to run at the park with the group.  However, I did squeeze in a 1.3 mile road run before I left town.

Avenues

I ran an unplanned route in the Avenues this evening.  It turned out to be 3.1 miles.  Relatively cool weather, with the temperature being in the high 80's.

About Half and Half

I went out to the park late this morning and ran 6.5 miles, about half on the trails and half on the park roads.

Gruene Hall 10K

I ran 1.3 miles on the roads in Huntsville yesterday before leaving for New Braunfels (between Austin and San Antonio) and the Gruene Hall 10K this morning.  Last year, I ran this race in 1:16:38, a couple months after first pulling one of my hamstrings.  Sure felt a lot better this morning and ran it very comfortably.  I was surprized that my time this morning was 1:16:17, just a few seconds faster than last year.  I was 3 of 4 in the 70-74 age group. This is a great race, with about 500 runners, super post-race party with plenty of beer and live country music at Gruene Hall.  My wife and I made some stops on the way back to Huntsville, but got back in time for Sam Houston State's first football game of the season.  They won 54-7 before the largest crowd in regular season game history.  I think I got in another 10K walk from where I had to park.

Tapering

Since I did 6.5 yesterda and have a 10K on Saturday, I decided to start tapering today.  Besides, it was hot.  I ran 2 miles on the park roads while the others ran trails.

Park, again

It was in the high 90's this evening.  After working out at Nautilus I went to the state park and ran roads alone.  At least, the roads there are somewhat shady.  I ran 6.5 miles and got home in time to watch the Dallas Cowboys beat the NY Giants.  Off to a good start.

Back to Park Roads

With cuts on both knees from falling during last Saturday's trail run, I went back to running park roads this evening.  I ran 3 miles and tried to pick up my speed.

Unplanned Course

I drove to the track this evening and then ran an unplanned course through the Avenues.  Even ran on a street that I had never run on before.  The course ended up being 2.1 miles.

Sunday Night 5K

As usual on the first Sunday of the month, I went down to The Woodlands this evening and ran the Sunday Night 5K.  It was particularly hot and humid, but I can survive a 5K in any weather.  I finished in 37:08, a little faster than last month, but still way off my pre-hamstring injury times.

Signed up for the End of the World Marathon

I signed up for the End of the World Marathon in Humble, Texas on December 21, 2012.  The Day After the End of the World Marathon is on December 22 at the same place.  At this point, I am not sure I will do both.  I went out to the park late this morning and ran 9 miles on the trails.  It was hot and humid and that new Camelbak I bought really worked well.  I used up all 70 oz of water during the run.  I fell twice and cut my knees.  Oh heck, they heal in a week or so.  As long as the hamstrings are not pulled or torn, I am okay.

Signed up for the Mother Road Marathon

I just signed up for the Mother Road Marathon in Joplin, Missouri on October 14.  It is 7 days after the Tyler Rose Marathon, but I should be okay as long as my hamstrings hold up.  If all goes well, I will run another one the next weekend.  In the meantime, I ran 2 miles on the roads in town this evening, after doing yardwork this afternoon.

New Member of the Group

We had a new member join the trail running group this evening at the park.  Blake is a 13 year old 8th grader.  She had never run at the park but she went 6+ miles around the lake with our fastest runners.  We were impressed.  I ran a 4.2 miles course on the trails and finished at the same time the fastest group finished.  I did trip and fall running down a hill, but fortunately it was a relatively slow fall into a sandy area.  Just got dirty.

Heavy Traffic

With Sam Houston State back in session, traffic in town is much heavier.  After working out at Nautilus, I went to the track and ran an unplanned route on the roads around town.  The route turned out to be 5K (3.1 miles).

Trails Again

I ran 3 miles on the trails at the park this evening.  Thank goodness for no trips or falls and my hamstrings are still intact.  I am always apprehensive about the first marathon of the season.  My first will be the Tyler Rose Marathon on October 7.  After that, no more long training runs.  Just run a marathon almost every weekend for the season.  That's my goal, anyway.

Return to the Trails

After staying off the trails all summer to avoid reinjuring my hamstrings, I returned this morning.  Lavonne had the day off and asked me to run with her on the trails.  We met up at the park at 8 a.m. and ran 8 miles.  After we finished, I went ahead and ran 3 miles on the park roads to get in a total of 11.  Thanks for running with me, Lavonne.  Before running this morning, I weighed 202 pounds.  I drank six 16.9 oz. bottles of water during and immediately after the run.  When, I got home, I weighed 200.  That means that I lost 8.3 pounds while running.  I also tried my new Camelbak during the trail run.  Surprizingly, t was very confortable easy to use.  I never felt burdened by it.

Short Sunday Run

I plan to do a long run tomorrow, so I ran 1.9 miles on the roads in town in the middle of the afternoon heat.

Heat Wave 5K

I ran the annual Heat Wave 5K here in Huntsville this morning.  I ran a disappointing 38:35 (1st of 3 in my age group).  Last year, I ran the same race about a minute faster and that was with a freshly pulled hamstring.  It is a very hilly out and back course, but I thought I would do better.

Plowing

I spent much of the afternoon plowing my wife's garden with a roto-tiller, so she can plant her fall garden.  Hard work.  However, I took a shower and ran a short 1.3-mile road course in town.  We have a race here in Huntsville tomorrow.  I have to get up early, put out the signs and then run.

Thursday Park Run

We had a nice group at the park this evening, including 3 new runners.  I ran 3 miles on the park roads and enjoyed slightly cooler temperatures.

Oh my God, they are coming back

As I ran 3 miles on the roads in town this evening, I realized that the students are coming back for the fall semester.  That means more traffic and people talking and texting while driving, rather than watching for runners.  Gotta be careful.

Got up early this morning

I got up early this morning and drove my wife down to Conroe for surgery to remove something from her ear and a skin graft.  All went well and we were back by noon.  When I met the group at the park this evening, we had a light rain.  However, by the time I finished 3 miles on the park roads, it had stopped.  It was a little cooler, though.  No rain at my house; in the last month, we have had 1/4 inch of the stuff.

Sqeezed in a Run

I have a lot of family visiting this evening and tomorrow, so after doing more yardwork this afternoon, I went to Nautilus early, worked out and then ran 1.6 miles on the roads in town.

Sore Today

I was really sore today after that fall yesterday on the asphalt in the race yesterday.  I bandaged up my knee and did a lot of yard work this afternoon.  Afterwards, I crashed for an hour and then forced myself to get up.  I was due for a long run, but cut it to 5.8 miles on the roads in town.

Watermelon 5K for the Fallen

I drove an hour to Hempstead this morning for the Watermelon 5K for the Fallen.  Hempstead is the watermelon capital of Texas and I think that every race they have there includes "watermelon" in the name.  The race this morning was to honor the servicemen from Texas killed in the mideast wars.  There was a large military and law enforcement presence at the race.  The pre-race ceremonies included a 4-plane flyover, swearing-in ceremony for new military recruits and parachutists landing on the football field.  There were around 600 runners and walkers and everyone had to walk around the track twice before exiting for the race.  We started running after leaving the gate to the football stadium.  About a half mile into the race, we running on very rough asphalt.  I tripped and fell and cut my knee.  Before anyone had a chance to help me up, I was able to get up and continue running.  Embarassing!  The race was not timed and I have no idea if the course was accurate.  The approach to the finish line, which was at a downtown park, was lined with about 100 motorcyclists holding American flags.  Can't beat that.  There was no race timing or competition.  My watch said 34:10 at the finish line.  After the race, there was a live band and more ceremonies to honor the fallen.  I was really impressed with what this small town put together to honor fallen servicemen.  Being a Vietnam veteran and retired from the Army, I really enjoyed visiting with some of the active duty and fomer military members there.  I'll be back next year.

Finished the Logging

I did a short 1.3-mile run on the roads in town this afternoon and then finished cutting up, loading and hauling off the fallen tree on my property.  I did some heaving lifting and feel sore all over this evening.  I suppose I will not get a PR in the 5K tomorrow.

Logging this Afternoon

I got my chainsaw out of the shop yesterday, so this afternoon I proceded to cut up and haul off a large oak tree that fell on my property.  Tiring work.  This evening, I had to go to Nautilus and then run 3 miles at the park to rest up.

Light Traffic

With only the summer school students in town, traffic is relatively light around the campus.  That will change soon.  So, my 3-mile loop around the campus this evening was rather uneventful, except that it was darned hot.

Where is the Rain?

After so much rain in the early part of the summer, green grass and mowing every few days, we have not had a drop of rain at my house for weeks.  It is starting to look like the drought of last summer.  I had to run an errand over in College Station (50 miles) today.  While there, I stopped at Academy (sporting goods store) and bought a camelback.  My plan is to try it on my long run this weekend.  This evening, it was my regular workout at Nautilus and 3-mile run on the roads at the park.  I suppose that I looked good in my new running shoes, but I ran alone on the empty roads.

Shoe Report

Maybe it is the way I run, but I seem to go through a lot of shoes.  The Saucony's that I tried this summer lasted 29 days (69 miles).  On June 15, I started running in a pair of Asics Fortitude 4's.  My last run in them was yesterday.  The left heel came apart and the outter right heel was worn out.  Those are going in the trash can.  They lasted 59 days (163 miles).  This evening, I started running in a new pair of Asics Fortitude 5's ($97 with my running club discount).  My break-in run was 1.3 miles on the roads in town.

Double Digits

I hit the roads this evening about 5:30 and ran 10.5 miles.  One of the problems with long runs in the summer heat is hydration.  I have to plan my route to make sure I can get water during the run.  Even though I hate to run with anything, I am thinking about buying a camel back.  Anybody out there run with these?

Run the Woodlands 5K

I have family visiting this weekend, but I slipped away this morning and went down to The Woodlands for the twice a month 5K.  As expected, it was hot and humid.  I finished in 37:12, a little faster than my run on the same course last Sunday evening.  This afternoon, we had the annual Seven Hills Running Club picnic.

Usual Friday

As usual on many Fridays, I went to the track this afternoon and ran laps.  Race tomorrow morning.

Steamy at the Park

It rained at the park this evening, so it was hot and steamy.  My intention was to run 5 miles on the roads, but I was done after 3.

Unplanned Route

After working out at Nautilus this evening, I drove to the track and ran an unplanned  road route from there.  It turned out to be 4.4 miles.

Tempted to get back on the trails

I have stayed off the trails all summer for fear of tripping and repulling my hamstrings.  I keep meeting the group at the park and running the hilly paved park roads while the others run trails.  This evening, I ran 3 miles.  Starting with the Tyler Marathon on October 6, I hope to get in 3 road marathons in October.  Then, I plan to run the Rocky Raccoon 50K Trail Run at Huntsville State Park on November 3 and the Texas Trail 50K at the same park on December 1.  Both are streak races.  This will be my 12th consecutive year for Rocky Raccoon and my 17th for the Sunmart/Texas Trail 50K.  If I can resist the temptation, I will wait until late September before getting back on the trails.  Long training runs on the trails seem a lot easier than long runs on the roads.

Mid-Afternoon Run

I had to take my wife down to The Woodlands for a 4:30 doctor's appointment today.  So, I ran 2 miles on the roads in town at 2:30 this afternoon.  After the appointment, we met my son, who lives in Houston, at the Olive Garden in The Woodlands for dinner.

Sunday Night 5K x 2

As usual on the first Sunday of each month, I went down to The Woodlands this evening to run the Sunday Night 5K.  It rained shortly before the race, so it was hot and steamy.  I was completely soaked in sweat when I finished.  My time was 37:35.  Since I had already made the trip to the "flatlands," I went ahead and ran the course again.  Not really a long run, but I got in a total of 6.2 miles.

Outriggers 5K on the Bay

I got up at 4:30 this morning for the 100-plus mile drive down to Seabrook for the Outriggers 5K on the Bay.  As expected, it was hot and humid down on the coast.  However, the course was flat and the post-race pizza and beer was good.  I finished in 35:50, which placed me 4th in the 70-79 age group.  

Short Friday Run

Since it is Friday and I have a race tomorrow, I went to the track this afternoon and ran laps.

Six Chicks Showed up at the Park

When we run at the state park, the group meets at the parking lot outside the park next the the I-45 service road and then drives into the park together.  This evening, there were six chickens hanging out in the parking lot.  I cannot imagine where they came from or how they got there.  We did find out that chickens love M&M's.  I ran 2.2 miles on the park roads with James, while the others ran trails.  When we left the park, the chickens were still in the parking lot.

Quiet Streets

With only the summer classes going on at Sam Houston State, the streets around the university are relatively quiet.  After working out at Nautilus this evening, I ran a 3-mile loop on the streets in town.

Easy Two

Due to a couple hamstring pains late in my run yesterday, I did an easy 2 miles on the roads at the park this evening.  No problem with the hamstring, but it was hot and humid.  Guess you expect that on the last day of July in Texas.

Avenues 5K with Mary

I ran the hilly Avenues 5K course this evening with my old running buddy, Mary Jenke.  She is starting to train for the Huntsville Half on October 27.  Late in the run going up the steep hill on Avenue O, I felt some pain in my right hamstring.  Ugh!  Sure do not want that injury again.  I took it easy and finished up the run.  Short run tomorrow.

Marathon Training has Begun

I started my marathon training today with a 7.5-mile run on the streets in town this evening.  It was hot, but I planned my route so I could stop at my truck once and get more water.  With my first marathon of the season on October 6, I have just over 2 months to train.  The longer run today was much more comfortable than the long runs last fall with pulled hamstrings.

Run the Woodlands 5K

I drove down for the Run the Woodlands 5K this morning.  This race is held on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of every month, but I have not run it for some time.  It was hot, but I thought I was running well.  I was surprized by my slow 37:23 finish.
I went back down to The Woodlands tonight for a party hosted by John and Gina Slate.  It was to celebrate John's upcoming Leadville 100-Mile Trail Run in Colorado.  It was nice party and I wish John the best of luck at Leadville.

Friday Routine

As I do on most Fridays before a Saturday race, I went to the track this afternoon and ran laps.

Went to the Park Twice

I spent most of the afternoon at the state park fishing with my son.  We did not catch anything.  Guess it was too hot.  Then, I went back to the park this evening and ran 2 miles on the roads.

Three More

I ran a 3-mile course on the roads in town this evening.  It is hot, but nothing compared to the heat wave/drought last summer.  In fact, I still have green grass in my yard.

Three at the Park

We had a nice crowd for our trail run at the park this evening.  Even had some new people.  It was also good to have Callye back from her surgery.  I am still off the trails and my hamstrings continue to improve.  I ran 3 miles on the park roads while everyone else ran trails.

Visiting Family

I had visiting family today, but I managed to squeeze in a short workout at Nautilus and a 1.3-mile road run.

Muggy

It was very muggy today and I had a sluggish 4.5 mile run on the roads in town.

Rock Island 4H Hempstead Watermelon Festival 5K

I drove a little over an hour to Hempstead this morning for the Rock Island 4H Hempstead Watermelon Festival 5K.  I ran this race in 1996 (28:03) and they have not had it since until this year.  The course was fairly flat and through neiborhoods near downtown and the Watermelon Festival.  Rather small, less than 100 runners.  The course seemed accurate and I thought I ran fairly well.  I finished in 34:53, which was my best time since pulling and tearing my hamstrings last summer and fall.  I finished 2nd of 4 or 5 in the 60 and over age group.  Besides a 2nd place medal, I was given a framed certificate for being the oldest runner in the race.  Then, I also got a free watermelon.  What a deal!
After the race, I drove over to Fleet Feet in The Woodlands to return the Saucony shoes I bought in May.  I ran in them for 29 days (69 miles) and the right heel wore out.  They gave me store credit for the full price of the shoes.  That was nice of them.  I will buy another pair of Asics from them when they get them in.

Yard Work

I spent most of the hottest part of the day doing yardwork.  With all the rain this summer, I have to mow and trim every few days.  It is such a contrast to the drought last summer.  Since I have a race tomorrow, I did a short 1.5-mile run on the roads in town this evening.

Houston Today

I picked up the brochures/entry forms for the 34th Annual Huntsville Half & Quarter Marathon & 5K Run/Walk from the printer this morning and then drove south and distributed them at running stores and other places in The Woodlands and in Houston.  It was a 190-mile drive.  When I returned, I worked out at Nautilus, distributed some at places locally and then ran 2 miles on the roads at the park.  The race is on October 27.

Cross Training

My left foot was still sore today, so I removed the new custom orthotics and replaced them with the old ones.  I will see if that makes a difference.  I ran laps this afternoon and decided I needed some cross training.  So, I went fishing.

Bald headed rooster somewhere

I ran laps at the track early this afternoon and then had an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon for Synvisc injections in both knees.  I have arthritis under both knee caps and Synvisc is a lubricate that works for 15 to 18 months.  Synvisc is the stuff from a rooster's cone.  So, there is a bald headed rooster out there somewhere and I appreciate his donation.  This is the third time I have received the injections and they work great.

Stormy Weather

After working out at Nautilus, I went out for a run on the streets.  A storm was moving in, but I managed to get in 2.4 miles.  My left foot is sore (feels like plantar fasciitis).  I sure do not need that now.  Many years ago, I had surgery on that foot to fix that problem.  So, I am not sure what the problem is.  I iced it when I got home and will take it easy for a few days.

Day 1 of the Next Thousand

My run today was the first of the next thousand days.  It rained early this afternoon as we drove down to Houston for lunch with my son and niece.  The sun was out when we left the restaurant and we stopped at a couple of stores on the way back to Huntsville.  I ran 2.7 miles on the roads in town this evening.  I felt sluggish as the humidity was very high.

1,000 and 600

I ran the Dog Days 5K here in Huntsville this morning.  Today was my 1,000th consecutive day of running.  I have been at the 1,000 mark twice on previous streaks, even got over 2,000 on one.  The race was my 600th since I started racing in 1983.  I finished the race this morning in 37:15.

Mushrooms

With all the rain lately, my yard is full of mushrooms.  I have enough to put Monterey Mushrooms out of business.  While it is not raining this morning and the grass was fairly dry, I went out to mow the lawn.  I made one swath through the yard and then there was a sudden downpour for 5 minutes.  So, when the rain let up, I finished mowing anyway.
Since I have a race in the morning, I went over to Veterans Memorial Blvd. and ran a mile plus.  Day 999.

Sun was shining

The sun was actually shining when the group met at the park this evening.  I did my normal 2 miles on the park roads, while the others ran trails.  Day 998!

Cooler, but very humid

It was cloudy all day, with some light rain.  With that, it was very humid.  I ran 4.8 miles on the roads in town this evening and was completely soaked in sweat when I finished.  It was day 997 of my current running streak.  I will run the Dog Days 5K on Saturday.  That will be 1,000 and my 600th race.

Birthday Party Today

Once a year, we have a birthday party at the park for several members of our trail running group who have a brithday in the summer.  We meet at a parking lot just outside of the park and most of the spouses also attend.  Most of us run before the party starts.  I did 2 miles on the park roads before joining the party.  It was raining when we arrived at the park, but luckily it stopped soon afterwards and the party was dry.

Run between rains

We had a lot of rain this afternoon (still no complaining).  After working out at Nautilus, I ran the roads around town.  The lightning got close during my run and I cut it off at 2.9 miles.

Much needed rain

The rain was all around us yesterday, but we missed out at my house.  However, we finally got some this afternoon and chances look good for the week.  In any case, so much more than last year.  I still have grass in my yard.  I ventured out this evening and ran 2 miles on the roads in town.  I have soreness in my left foot, so I will take it easy this week.

Freedom 5K

Marilynn and I drove 100 miles up to Nacogdoches (oldest city in Texas) this morning for the Freedom 5K.  Donna Fabian from Huntsville was also there.  It was hot and very humid, but I finished the relatively flat course through residential neighborhoods in 36:20.   It was my 599th race since 1983.

Laps

I ran laps at the track at 3 this afternoon.  Resting up for a long drive and 5K in Nacogdoches.

Felt like it should have been Sunday

With the race yesterday, it felt like today should have been Sunday.  I guess that means that my body clock is based on racing every Saturday.  I ran the usual 2-mile road course at the park this evening.  It's plenty hot, but 2 miles is survivable.

Nowhere but Centerville

Nowhere but Centerville are you going to find a $10 race entry for a 5K with a T-shirt, 14-inch trophy for 2nd in age group and refreshments after the race.  My wife and son and drove up to Centerville for Stu's Country Mile 5K this morning.  This was my 17th consecutive year for running this race.  I finished in 37:38 and got 2nd in the 66 and over age group.  My wife walked the distance and came in last place.  However, she won 1st in her age group win and came home with a bigger trophy.  We had a lot of club members there and, as usual, we all went to the Town Cafe for breakfast before watching the 4th of July parade around the downtown square.

Centerville Tomorrow

Tomorrow, I will be running Stu's Country Mile 5K in Centerville, 45 minutes north of Huntsville.  It was in that race last year that I pulled the hamstring in my right leg.  Later, I tore the hamstring above the knee in my right leg and then pulled the hamstring in my left leg.  Then, in February, I fell and repulled the one in my left leg.  It has been a tough year.  I have run slow, ugly and at times in much pain.  For months, I felt like my legs were going to collapse - and at one point they did.   I managed to run 6 marathons, switched to the half in some others and skipped some others altogether.  Most of the pain is gone now and I am slowly rebuilding strength.  Through it all, however, I have kept my running streak alive.
This evening, I went to the park and ran the usual 2 miles on the park roads, while the others ran trails.

Back to Monday

This morning, I wrote my running column for the paper tomorrow and then did yardwork.  The column is already online.  Click HERE.  This evening, I worked out at Nautilus and then ran an unplanned route on the streets in town.  The course turned out to be 3.1 miles.

Sunday Night 5K

I ran the Sunday Night 5K in The Woodlands tonight for the 30th time.  Finished in 36:52, a few seconds slower than last month.

No race this Saturday

There were no races around this Saturday morning.  I ran laps at the track this morning and then attended a long lunch hour meeting with the other Seven Hills Running Club officers.  Then, I left for a family get together in Tyler and just got back to Huntsville.

Signed up for The Louisiana Marathon

I just signed up for The Louisiana Marathon in Baton Rouge on January 20, 2013.
My son, Ben, and I went fishing at Huntsville State Park this afternoon, but did not even get a bite.  Since it was Friday afternoon, the pier was loaded with people.
This evening, I ran 3 miles on the roads in town.

Signed up for Tyler Rose Marathon

I just signed up for the Tyler Rose Marathon to be held on October 7, 2012.  It will be my first marathon of the season.  I hope to get in about 15 total for the Texas season.  Just hope the hamstrings hold up.  I ran the Tyler Marathon two years ago and was signed up to run it again last year.  Because of the hamstring problem, I had to switch to the half marathon.  It is a hilly course, but I am use to running hills.  It is those uneven red brick streets that I hate.
After working out at Nautilus this evening, I ran 2 miles on the roads at the park.

Only 100

It got up to only 100 degrees this afternoon and was a cool 97 when I ran 3 miles on the roads in town this evening.

Even Hotter

I had to run some errands 30 miles down I-45 in Conroe this afternoon.  The exterior thermometer on my car showed it to be 110 degrees.  The group ran at the park at 6 p.m. and it was surely over 100 degrees then - with high humidity.  I ran 2 miles on the park roads, while most did a 3-mile loop.

Hottest Day

It was over 100 degrees in Huntsville today for the first time this summer.  I woke up early this morning to the sound of an alarm on my aerobic system (sewage treatment plant) in my backyard.  I had to get a serviceman out to fix the pump in the system and that cost me $250.  Maybe we will eventually be annexed by the city and get connected to their sewer system.  So, I finally got to take a shower later this afternoon.  Such is country life.  After working out at Nautilus this evening, I ran 2 miles on the roads in town.  I suppose that it was still over 100 when I ran about 6 p.m.

Three

I waited until about 6:30 this evening and then drove to the track and ran 3 miles on the roads in town.

Polish Pickle 5K

I went to bed after midnight last night with the intention of getting up at 5 a.m.  I woke up at 3 a.m. and never went back to sleep.  Got out of bed at 5 a.m. and drove up to Bremond (90 miles) for the 17th consecutive Polish Pickle 5K.  As usual, it was hot and they had a record crowd of about 700 runners.  I finished in 35:44 and got 2nd of 7 in my 70-74 age group.  That was my best 5K time on an accurate course since my hamstring pulls and tear, so I was okay with that time.  I took a short nap this afternoon after getting home and then went to an anniversary party for some friends tonight.

Rest Day

Since I am running the Polish Pickle 5K in Bremond tomorrow, I rested today.  Ran laps at the track.

Two at the Park

I met up with a small group at the park this evening and ran 2 miles on the park roads.  The hamstrings seem to be getting stronger.  I plan to run my first marathon of the season in Tyler on October 7, so I will need to start getting my distance up next month.  I am always apprehensive about the first marathon of the season, especially after the pulled and torn hamstrings during the last year. 

Longest Day

Today, June 20, is the longest day of the year.  I started the day with breakfast at IHOP.  A young couple and their small child were at the table next to me.  The young man was wearing Wounded Warrior T-shirt and was missing both of his arms.  He ate with his foot.  We must not forget the sacrifices that our servicemen have made and continue to make to protect us from terriorism.
I worked much of the day on my lawn.  Then, I lawn mower broke and I drove 30 miles down to Conroe to get a part to fix it.  While there, there was a very heavy rain storm.  Unfortunately, it was not headed for Huntsville.  So, after getting back home, I was able to fix the lawn mower and  finish the yard.
About 6 p.m., I worked out at Nautilus and then ran 4.2 miles on the roads in town.
It's nice to have a long day to get everything done.

Back to the Park

I went back to the state park this evening to run with the group.  It was raining, so just the hardcore runners showed up.  It was Phillip, James, Craig and me.  I ran 2 miles on the park roads, while they all did 3 on the trails.  One good thing, the horse flies do not attack while it is raining.

Cross Training

I decided to do some cross training this afternoon, so I took my son, Ben, fishing at Huntsville State Park.  There was a 5-foot alligator hanging around the fishing pier the whole time we were there.  I could not find my good rod and reel, so I fished with an old one.  I left it unattended on the railing for a few seconds and a big fish took the bait and my rod and reel.  Ben had a second one, so I used that and was careful to hang on to it.  Ben and I both caught a Bass (3 to 4 pounds).  Nice relaxing afternoon.
This evening, I worked out at Nautilus and then ran 1.8 miles on the roads in town.

All 4 Quadrants

I went to the track this evening and then ran an unplanned road route from there.  It took me through all 4 quadrants of the city and turned out to be 5.9 miles.

June Bug 5K

It was hot and humid this morning for the June Bug 5K in Huntsville.  I finished the very hilly course in 38:27, almost a minute slower than the same race last year.

New Shoes

I ran 2 miles on the roads in town in new Asics Fortitude 4 shoes.  It will be the last pair I buy.  After they are worn out, I will try the new Fortitude 5's that are still in the box in my closet.

No more Saucony's

A month ago, I bought a pair of Saucony ProGrid 4 running shoes for $100.  The sole is worn out.  I'm tough on running shoes, but one month is crazy.  I wear custom orthotics and need a neutral shoe.  For years, I have worn Asics Fortitude and they last me several months.  Then, they came out with the Fortitude 4 model and my big toes come out of the top of the shoe in just a couple weeks.  They did not do that on the earlier models.  That is why I tried Saucony ProGrid.  I still have one more pair of the Fortitude 4, but recently found a new Fortitude 5 online for $72.  I have those now and it appears that the upper part of the Fortitude 5 is like the old 1, 2 and 3's.  Maybe they will be okay.  I just have to find a reliable source at a good price.
As usual, I met up with the group at the park this evening and ran 2-miles on the roads.  Biting flies were bad; I need to run faster.

In Houston Today

I ran laps at the track this morning and then went down to Houston for a family get-together.  From there, I drove my son and his girlfriend to the airport in Houston and got back tonight.

Rain when you don't expect it

With a low percent chance of rain today, I watered my lawn this morning.  Later this afternoon, we had heavy wind, rain and lightning.  I sure do not want to complain about the rain, but Jacob and I were the only regulars who showed up at the park this evening.  My son, Tim, and his girlfriend, Phoebe, who are visiting from Yuma, AZ, and my wife came along this evening.  They went hiking in the rain and lightning, while Jacob and I ran.  I did 2 miles on the road, while Jacob ran trails.

Early Run

Even though it was awfully hot and humid, I worked out early this afternoon because I had to go to a family thing this evening.  I ran an unplanned course on the roads in town, which turned out to be 2.6 miles.  Earlier today, I received my copy of the quarterly newsletter from the U. S. Running Streak Association.  It is always great reading the stories written by fellow streakers.  Some have gone to extremes to keep their streak alive.  It makes me realize that I am a wimp.

Sluggish

I don't know if it is the hot and humid weather or the fact that I had family visiting today and ate too much, but I ran 3.1 miles on the roads in town this evening and felt very sluggish.

Greyhound 5K

I got up at 5 this morning to drive 90 miles up to Kosse, Texas for the Greyhound 5K.  Nice race with about 150 runners and walkers.  I ran it once before year before last.  My time then was 33:48 and this morning it was 36:12, exactly the same as my time at the Heights 5K in Houston last Saturday.  Slow, but consisent.  I was first of two in my 70 & Over age group.  After getting back to Huntsville and taking a nap, I drove down to Houston to pick up my son and his girlfriend at the airport.

Funeral in Spring

My wife and I drove down to Spring, Texas this morning to attend the funeral of a friend who passed away last Sunday night.  He was only 39 and died from a brain tumor.  We were down to visit with him on May 18.  I did yard work this afternoon and ran laps at the track this evening.  I have to get up early tomorrow for a race.

Robinson Plantation

Darren, our running club president, and I drove 20 miles east over to Point Blank, Texas this morning to visit the old Robinson Plantation.  It is now owned by the parents of Leah, one of our club members.  She and her parents proposed it as a great place for a race.  So, Darren and I went to check it out.  What a beautiful place!  The plantation house was built in 1857 and once sit on over 3,000 acres.  Now it sits on a well-manicured 40 acres.  The owners, Bill and Barbara, searching with metal detectors, have found many artifacts over the years.  In fact, so many that they have built a museum to house and display their collection.  The plantation was 8.4 miles from General Sam Houston's plantation and General Sam had visited the Robinson Plantation house many times, as well as Govenor Wood, the second govenor of Texas.  We received a guided tour of the museum and a jeep tour of the entire grounds.  Then, Leah and her parents treated us to a wonderful lunch at the plantation house.  We have some running courses in mind and will try to set up a race their later.
In the meantime, I went to the ye olde state park this evening and ran 2 miles on the park roads, while the others ran trails.

Astros Game

It is after midnight and I just got back from the Astros-Cardinals game in Houston.  Before going down this afternoon, I got in a workout at Nautilus and a 1.9-mile run on the roads in town.  It was mid-afternoon and hot!

Two at the Park

While the others ran trails at the park this evening, I ran 2 miles on the hilly roads.

Cotton T-Shirts

I had on a cotton race T-shirt this afternoon and left the shirt on when I went running this evening.  I normally run in tech shirts and forgot how uncomfortable it was to run in a cotton shirt in hot and humid weather.  I ran 3 miles on the roads and my shirt was completely soaked in sweat.  No more cotton for running.

Sunday Night 5K

For the 29th time, I went down to The Woodlands to run the Sunday Night 5K.  I finished in 36:45, 33 seconds slower than the 5K in Houston yesterday.  Both are flat and accurate courses and it was hot and humid for both.

Heights 5K

For the second year in a row, I drove down to Houston early this morning to run the Heights 5K.  The course is out and back and very flat.  The surface is smooth asphalt.  The best runners in Houston were there.  In fact, there were 9 runners who finished in under 17 minutes.  Last year, I ran 34:15 and was first of five in the 70 -74 age group.  This morning, I finished in 36:12 and was third of four.

Houston

My wife and son and I drove down to Houston late this morning for the Sam Houston State - University of Arkansas baseball game at 1 p.m. at Rice University.  It was the first game of the Houston Regional NCAA Tournament.  Arkansas won, but it was a close game.  After the game, I went to Luke's Locker in west Houston to pick up my packet for the Heights 5K in Houston tomorrow.  We got caught up in the evening rush hour traffic and did not get back to Huntsville until about 6:30 this evening.  I went over to the track and ran laps when I got home.  The race starts at 7:30 tomorrow, so I have to get up early.

Steamy Evening

After a much needed rain this morning, it was hot and steamy at the park this evening.  I ran 2 miles on the park roads, while everyone else ran trails.

3.3

After Nautilus this evening, I ran an unplanned course on the roads in town.  It turned out to be 3.3 miles.

Went to Bryan

I had to drive over to Bryan, Texas (50 miles) this afternoon for an appointment.  While there, I had dinner at my favorite Mexican restaurant, the Coco Loco.  I missed the run with the group at the park this evening, but I did get to Nautilus for a workout and then laps at the track after dark.

Memorial Day 5K

My wife and I hosted our Seven Hills Running Club's annual Memorial Day 5K at our house this morning.  The race started and finished in front of my house and was followed by breakfast fixed and served by my wife and two other club members.  We had 82 runners and a lot of family members.  Beautiful weather and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.  There was virtually no traffic on the course and no dogs.  However, one runner made the wrong turn and ran an extra mile or so.  It did not seem like Monday, but this evening, I worked out at Nautilus and ran 3 miles on the roads in town.

Getting ready for tomorrow

Tomorrow, we are having the club's annual Memorial Day 5K starting and finishing at my house, with breakfast afterwards.  So, I spent most of the day getting ready.  I expect that we will have at least 75 runners.  I finally got around to running this evening.  Ran 2 miles on the roads in town.

Stayed Home

Since I planned to get up at 4:30 this morning to make the 75-mile trip to downtown Houston for the Race for the Pennant 10K at Minute Maid Park, I went to bed at 11:30 last night.  My normal is 12:30.  I woke up at 2:30 a.m. and could not go back to sleep.  At 4:30 a.m., I got out of bed and then changed my mind several times about going down.  In the end, I stayed at home for fear of falling asleep at the wheel on I-45.  I was really looking forward to the race, but felt it was not worth of risk of driving sleepy.  I went back to bed and slept for an hour or so and took a couple naps on the couch during the day.  At 5:30 this evening, I ran 5 miles on the roads in town.  It was hot, but the humidity was low.

Resting Up

Since I have a 10K tomorrow morning in hot downtown Houston, I rested up today.  I went to the track this afternoon and ran laps.  Gotta get up early tomorrow.  Ugh!

No trails for a while

I am still trying to rebuild the strength in my hamstrings and have decided to stay off the trails for a while.  While I much prefer running trails, I hate to take a chance on tripping on a root and re-pulling the hamstrings before they are stronger.  I plan to be back on the trails in the fall.  So, I ran 2 and a half miles this evening on the roads at the park, while the group ran trails.

Birthday

Today was my 71st birthday.  No big deal; it doesn't even put me in a new age group.  My son and I drove over to San Marcos in south central Texas this morning for Sam Houston State's first game in the Southland Conference baseball tournament.  Sam was the number 1 seed and lost to the number 8 seed.  However, it is a double-elimination tournament, so it is not over for Sam.  On the way back, we stopped in Caldwell, Texas to get gas.  At this particular station, gas was $3.36, cheaper than the other stations.  When I pulled up to the pump, a guy came out and started cleaning my windshield.  My first thought that it was a guy off the street trying to make a buck.  Then, I realized that he worked for the station and was cleaning everyone's windshield.  It has been many years since a service station attendent cleaned my windshield.  Of course, I remember the days when gas was 19.9 cents a gallon.  I would pull up to the pump in my 48 Chevy and get a dollars worth, which would last me most of the week.  Back then, you were not allowed to pump the gas yourself.  They did it, cleaned your windshield and checked a bunch of other things on your car.  My, how things have changed.
It was later than usual, but I worked out at Nautilus this evening and went to the track after dark and run laps.

Other Running Blogs

I read other running blogs and am always impressed by the adventures and experiences of other runners.  Many are well-written and creatively displayed.  My blog seems to be more of a log of my daily running.  While most of my posts are short and report my distance for the day, latest pain or completed race, I think it reflects of life of streaking.  Sometimes, it is even hard to come up with a title for the daily entry.  Unless I am befallen with a serious injury or illness that keeps me from running at least a mile, I will get out and run.  That has not occurred in over two and a half years, so I will keep working on my streak and writing short reports.  Do not expect more from this blog.  If you are inspired by my consistency, wonderful.
In the meantime, I ran 2 miles on the park roads this evening, while the others ran trails.  It was very humid and even rained a little during the run.  No complaints about the rain, but got none at my house.

Feeling Good

The pain in my calf seems to have gone and  there is very little pain in my hamstrings.  And, I am careful to stretch before running.  So, at the moment, I am feeling good, even though I know that I have to rebuild strength in my hamstrings.  After more heavy yard work this afternoon, I worked out at Nautilus and then ran 3 miles on the roads in town.  School is out, so the traffic is lighter.

Recovery Run

I realize that it is Sunday, but after church I did a lot of heavy yard work, including heavy lifting.  My back was really sore and stiff, so I layed down for a while.  It was hard to get up and go run.  But, that is what streakers do; run when you don't want to.  I went to the track in town and then ran 1.8 miles on the roads.

Running Jacks 5K

I drove about 75 miles east this morning to Diboll, Texas to run the Running Jacks 5K.  Diboll is just south of Lufkin and I am a member of the Lufkin Area Pacesetters (LAPS).  The photo here is of me and my LAPS friends.  Nice course, starting and finishing at the high school track.  I finished in 36:30 and was first in my 70 & over age group (yep, I was the only one in the age group).  I was relieved that I did not have sharp pains in my calf.  With that, I will sign up for the Race for the Pennant 10K (Astros Run) next Saturday.

Friday

After doing yard work today and spraying around the house to keep the critters out, I went to the track this afternoon and ran laps.  Then, my wife, son and I went down to Spring (north of Houston) and met up with another son and my niece to visit with a very ill friend.  After visiting, we all went out to dinner.

Another switch to 2 miles

I planned to run 3 miles on the park roads this evening while the others ran trails.  I had sharp pains in the left calf after a quarter mile, so I cut the run to 2 miles.  This is getting old.  I need to get back to normal.

Signed up for the BCS Marathon

I took advantage of the early bird special today and signed up for the BCS Marathon on December 9, 2012 in College Station.  That is the third marathon I have signed up for for the 2012/2013 season.  The others are the Texas Marathon on January 1, 2013 and The Woodlands Marathon on March 2, 2013.  If my hamstrings hold up, I plan to get in 10 to 15 total for the season.
I went out for a 3-mile road run this evening, but cut it to 2 miles after that left calf started hurting.  I drank a real cold beer when I got home and iced it for 30 minutes.

Cool Evening

After a light rain much of the day, it was rather cool this evening.  I put on new Saucony running shoes out of the box, worked out at Nautilus and then ran 2 miles on the roads at the park.  It was the first time in many years that I have run in anything but Asics. 

Darned Calf

I spent much of the day over in Bryan, Texas, but got home in time for a workout at Nautilus and a road run.  The darned left calf was sore, so I only ran 1.3 miles.  Guess I will have to take it easy for the next few days.

Six Miles

After church today, I went to the Sam Houston State and Southeast Louisiana baseball game and watched Sam Houston clinch the conference title.  Really nice weather today, temperature in the low 80's and low humidity.  After the game, I ran 6 miles on the roads in the city.  I felt strong, but that left calf bothered me after a couple miles.  I'll walk a few feet and then it is okay.  I have the whole summer for it to get better.