14-Day streak at the park

With a half marathon in the morning, I did a short 1.3-mile trail run at the park this afternoon.  That's 14 consecutive days of trail runs at the park - every day since the Santa Hustle Half Marathon on December 17.

Morning trail run

There were a bunch of friends running trails at the park at 7:30 this morning.  Since I did not get up until about 8:30, I finally got to the park after they all finished.  I ran 3 miles on the trails and am declaring my foot pain free.

A little more distance

The foot seemed even better today.  So, I ran 5 miles on the trails at the park.  It was still a little sore, but I am confident that I can run the half marathon on Monday.

Pain almost gone

My foot was better today, the pain almost gone.  I met up with the group at the park this evening and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  The temperature was about 41, but it seemed much colder.

Finally got to see the doc

My doctor's office reopened today and I got an appointment immediately.  Got my prescription renewed for my foot and got some new stuff to take for a couple weeks.  Hopefully, the pain will be gone soon.  It was cold (30's) and rainy all day, but I did get out to the park this afternoon and run 2.3 miles on the trails.  Running streak day 2,992.

Doctor's office was closed

I went to the doctor's office this morning, but they were closed.  The medicine I take for my gout are small purple pills.  I looked in the draws in my bathroom and found 4 in the back of one of the drawers.  No telling how old they are.  I took two today and cut my trail run to 1.3 miles this evening.  The foot feels a little better tonight.

Merry Christmas

I left visiting family again this afternoon and went to the park and ran 3 miles on the trails.  This evening, my foot starting getting inflamed again.  Darn.  I took the last of the medicine that I have.  Looks like I will be at the doctor's office tomorrow, getting an appointment and/or a prescription renewal.  I have a half marathon a week from today, so I must get back to normal by then.

Christmas eve

I left visiting family this afternoon and ran 3 miles on the trails at the park.  They understand.

Six day streak at the park

For six straight days, I have run trails at the state park.  While I still have pain in my foot, it seems to lessen after I run on it for a while.  I ran 2.4 miles this afternoon on the trails.  Hopefully, the worst is over.

Still inflamed this morning

My foot was still inflamed and very sore this morning.  In fact, it seemed to be getting worse.  I took a lot of pills today and drank a lot of tart cherry juice.  Later this afternoon, it seemed to be doing better.  My friend, Jon Walk from Spring, was in Huntsville on business today.  So, we met at the park this afternoon and ran 3 miles on the trails.  My foot hurt, but it was tolerable.  We had a good visit.

Thought it was getting better

I woke up this morning and my foot seemed much better.  However, as the day went on, the pain increased.  I met the group at the park this evening and ran on a trail that I have not been on for years, because it was smoother.  Am not sure how far I ran, but I ran for 25 minutes  I guess 1 mile+.

Extended the pain

Despite taking medication and drinking tart cherry juice today, the inflammation in my big toe joint has not lessened.  I went to the park this evening and attempted 2 miles on the trails. I got nearly a mile and decided it would be less painful to run on the road.  While running back on the road, a lady jokingly asked if I want to borrow her bicycle.  In any case, I got in close to 2 miles.  Running streak day 2,985 done.

Painful run

I woke up this morning with gout in my left big toe joint.  This was my first attack in years.  Gout is where the uric acid in your system crystallizes in the coldest joint in your body (big toes joint).  The crystals are like little needles in the joint.  Very inflamed and painful for a week or so.  If you take the medication early, it may head off the worst.  Hopefully, I did that.  I went out to the park this evening and managed to get in 1.3 miles on the trails.  Painful, but nothing to break the streak over.

Short trail run

After Iron Works this afternoon, I went out to the park and did a short trail run (1.3 miles to be exact).  A storm blew in just as I was finishing.

Race 1,000 - Santa Hustle Half Marathon

I drove down to Galveston yesterday to run the Santa Hustle Half Marathon at Moody Gardens this morning.  They were suppose to give me bib 1,000, but instead I got 13 thousand something.  They asked me to check in this morning before the race about the bib.  I did that at 6 a.m. this morning.  They said that my bib was accidentally left at the corporate office.  So, they did some cutting and pasting and made up one for me.  They are nice people and put on a good race.  There was no rain or wind during the race and the temperature was in the 50's.  Really nice.  I finished in 3:05:23 and was 5 of 6 in the 70 and over age group.  This was my 94th half marathon.  My wife walked the 5K.

Different Friday

I usually run laps at the track on Friday, pending a race on Saturday.  No race tomorrow, so I went out to the park and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  The ankle is nearly back to normal, so I am not worried about the race on Sunday.

Doing better

Both my PC and my ankle are doing better.  The ankle was so sore yesterday, but is much better day; hard to believe that it improved so much in one day.  I ran 2 miles on the park roads this evening without much pain.  Looking forward to race 1,000 on Sunday.

PC in the shop

My PC was in the shop yesterday, so I missed a blog entry.  I ran 2.3 miles at the park yesterday, mostly on the trails.  I woke up this morning with a very sore ankle.  Not sure where that came from; I did not knowingly hurt it yesterday.  In any case, I iced it and took Ibuprofen and laid around much of the day.  I managed to get in a limpy 1-mile run at the track this evening.  My experience with pains that come on quickly is that they go away quickly.  With that said, hopefully the ankle will be much better tomorrow.  I got the PC back this evening, complete with a new hard drive.  Nice having a fast computer again.

Trails

After a busy weekend, I went out to the park this afternoon and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  I felt completed recovered from the half marathon yesterday.

BCS Half Marathon - Race 999

I ran the BCS Half Marathon in College Station this morning.  It was my 3rd year for running this half after running the full marathon there for 4 years.  It was in the 30's and 40's throughout the race.  Clear and no wind.  I finished in 3:10:51 and was 6th of 8 in the 70 and over age group.  Got to visit with a lot of good friends before and after the race.  This was my 999th race.

Reindeer 5K

I made the 80-mile drive over to Lufkin this morning to run the Reindeer 5K.  The temperature was 28 degrees and the race did not start until 8:35.  I finished in 38:07 and was 2nd of 2 in the 71 and over age group.  This was my 998th race.  I drove back to Huntsville for a shower and a nap.  After that, I drove to College Station to pick up my packet for tomorrow's half marathon.  Got the packet, visited with a few friends and picked up something from a store for my wife before heading back to Huntsville.  After getting back to Huntsville, went to church, ate supper and went to the Sam Houston - Kennesaw State football game.  I stayed through the 3rd quarter and came home to thaw out.  Long day.

Short trail run

I usually run laps at the track on Friday when I have a race on Saturday.  The track was too muddy, so I went out to the park and ran about 1.5 miles on the trails.

Snow

No one else show up at the park this evening.  So, I ran 2.3 miles on the trails.  I had a club officer meeting at 6:30, so I got back in plenty of time to shower and change.  When I got out of the meeting, it was snowing.  I have lived in Huntsville for 31 years and it snow a few times.  However, I think this was the most.  I photographed it from my front door tonight;  I'm sure it will be gone tomorrow.  After the meeting, I took my wife out to dinner to celebrate her birthday.

Cold and rainy

It was cold (about 40) and it rained all day.  The park was closed, so after Iron Works, I went to the track and ran 1.3 miles on the roads from there.

Park is closed for squirrel hunting tomorrow

The state park closed at 5 p.m. today for squirrel hunting tomorrow.  So, I went out earlier today and ran 2.4 miles on the trails.  I warned all the squirrels.

Back to the trails

After Iron Works this afternoon, I drove through rain to get to the park to run trails.  It stopped about the time I got to the park and I ran 2.4 miles on the trails.

Texas 10 Series Conroe

I ran the Texas 10 Series 10 Miler in Conroe this morning.  I finished in 2:23:07 and was 3rd of 3 in the 70 and over age group.  I was not pleased with my time, but my hip was giving me problems and I slowed down so as not to aggravate it.  My bib number happened to be 668.  My cell phone number is 668-0668.  It must be a lucky number because they drew it for a $100 bill door prize after the race.  This was my 997th race and my 2,968th consecutive day of running.

St. Nick 5K

Drove over to College Station this morning and ran the St. Nick 5K.  This was my 996th race.  I finished in 39:54 and was 3 of 5 in the 60 and over age group.  My friend, Gretchen, went over with me and we had a Mexican breakfast at the LoCo Mexican restaurant in Bryan after the race.  I go there every chance I get.  Took a nap after I got home and then went to the Sam Houston State - South Dakota football game here in Huntsville.  10-mile race in the morning.

Friday laps

With a couple races this weekend, I ran laps at the track this morning.

Unplanned course

I ran an unplanned course on the trails and roads at the park this evening.  Am not sure what the distance was, but something around 2 miles.

Early run

I had a doctors appointment in Conroe at 4 this afternoon, so I went to Iron Works late this morning for a workout and then to the park for a run.  Did 3 miles on the trails.

Trail and road

After Iron Works this evening, I met up with the group at the park and ran 2.3 miles, partly on the trails and partly on the roads.

Smoky trail run

There was a fire in the area this afternoon and the state park was blanketed with smoke.  I ran 2.4 miles on the trails.

Nice Sunday Afternoon

Beautiful Sunday weather.  I went out to the park this afternoon and ran 4 miles on the trails.

Leftover Turkey 5K

I ran our club's hilly Leftover Turkey 5K this morning.  I finished in 42:43 and was first of two in the 70 and over age group.  This was my 995th race.  Here is my path to 1,000:

Dec. 2 - St. Nick's 5K, College Station - 996
Dec. 3 - Texas 10 Series 10-Miler, Conroe - 997
Dec. 9 - Reindeer 5K, Lufkin - 998
Dec. 10 - BCS Half Marathon, College Station - 999
Dec. 17 - Santa Hustle Half Marathon, Galveston - 1,000

Friends of the Running Community 5K

Volte Running Coach, Bill Dwyer, put on a special 5K this morning in The Woodlands on the same course as the Sunday Night 5K and the Run the Woodlands 5K.  This race was to provide a third race to complete the Montgomery County Triple over the Thanksgiving holidays. I went down this morning and ran the race.  My friend, Jon Walk, and I ran the whole thing together and finished in 40:10.  I will be doing my own triple, two in Montgomery County and one here in Walker County tomorrow.

Run Thru the Woods 5-Miler

I ran the Run Thru the Woods 5-Miler in The Woodlands this morning.  This was my 16th straight year running this Thanksgiving Day race.  I  finished in 1:05:22 and was 3 of 4 in the 75-79 age group.

Crowded park

As expected, the park was crowded with visitors today and I am sure it will be that way through the weekend.  Beautiful weather today.  Sunny and cool.  I ran 2.4 miles on the trails this afternoon.

Getting back to normal

Even though I have sinus drainage problems and the coughing that goes with that, I seem to be getting back to normal.  I moved the grass this afternoon (okay, it's with a riding lawn mower), worked out at Iron Works and met up with the group at the park.  I ran 2.3, partly on the trails and partly on the roads.

Still weak

I worked out at Iron Works this afternoon and then ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park.  I just noticed that the weights were heavier and it was a little harder running up the hills at the park.

Recovering, I think

I had a fever and felt terrible when I went to bed last night.  I did not have a fever this morning, so I went to the track and ran laps.  Only a slight fever for the rest of the day, so maybe I am recovering.  Really hate that I missed the half marathon in La Porte this morning.  A friend told me that my accomplishment were announced at the race and got a big round of applause.  Guess it would have been boos if they realized that I was not there.

Defend the Orphan 5K

I drove 35 minutes down to Montgomery this morning to run the Defend the Orphan 5K.  The race did not start until 9:30 a.m.  I checked my temperature before I left and it was normal.  However, my throat was so sore and it was tough running the race.  I finished in 43:00, nearly 5 minutes slower than my 5K last Saturday.  I did not know very many people there and I  tried to stay clear of everyone, in case I was contagious. The age groups were 39 and younger and 40 and older, so no age group award.  By the time I got home, my temperature was up over 100 and has been there every since.  I had to make a tough decision about my half marathon tomorrow in La Porte.  I hate to be a wimp, but I decided not to go.  That screws up my goal of running my 101st half marathon on February 17.  I still plan on running race number 1,000 on December 17, but will have to squeeze in another race between now and then.

Rough night

I had a rough night last night, with fever and chills.  I got into my doctor's office this morning and saw a nurse practitioner and she diagnosed my problem as the flu.  She gave me some stuff for flu.  I really think it is a sinus infection.  My temperature has been over 100 all day, but I did go run laps at the track this afternoon.  5K in the morning and half marathon on Sunday.  We'll see.  If I can't make the half marathon, there is no way I can keep up my schedule to complete 101 by February 17.

Fever

My wife has been sick for a week and the doctor diagnosed it yesterday as Flu.  Cannot remember of her ever having the Flu.  I started coughing today and sneezing.  I ran 2 miles on the park roads at the park.  Now, my fever is over 100.  I have a 5K and a half marathon this weekend, so I need to find a doctor early tomorrow and get on some antibiotics. I'm not sure I caught the Flu or have my normal annual sinus infection.  I have not had the Flu in about 40 years.  I went down to the drugstore last night and got a Flu shot, my first one since about 1980.  Maybe that had something to do with it.

Afternoon in Conroe

My wife and I both had doctor's appointments in Conroe this afternoon, so I went out to the park this morning and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Breaking in new shoes

My new Brooks Dyads were worn out after the Fort Worth Half on Sunday.  I ordered two more pair, but they will not arrive for another week.  I still had a new pair of Asics Fortitude, so I starting breaking them in today.  I ran 2.3 miles at the park this evening, half on the trails and half on the roads.

Back to the trails

After Iron Works this evening, I went out to the park and ran 2.3 miles on the trails.  Looking toward another 5K on Saturday and half marathon on Sunday.

Explore the Falls 5K and Fort Worth Half Marathon

I ran the 1st Annual Explore the Falls 5K in Spring Saturday morning.  Nice race in a nice neighborhood.  Well organized.  Nice cool weather and a flat course.  I finished in 38:47 and was first in the 60 and over age group.  I was the only one and was somewhat surprised that there were not more.  Nice wooden finisher medal and another wooden medal for the age group win.  Then, Saturday afternoon, I drove about 200 miles up to the north side of Fort Worth for the half marathon this morning.  I ran into my friend, Loren, at packet pickup on Saturday and we had a good visit.  The Fort Worth Marathon, Half Marathon & 20-Miler has really grown in size since I ran the full there several years ago.  There was a light rain this morning just before the race started at 8 a.m.  The temperature was in the 60's, but, of course, very humid.  I finished in 3:15:46 and was 1st in the 75-79 age group (yes, I was the only one).  The race today was my 92nd half marathon and 991st race.  Getting close to reaching my goals.

Friday at the track

With two races this weekend, I went to the track this morning and ran laps.

Club meeting

We had a club meeting at 6 this evening, so I ran 2 miles on the trails with the group at the park, went home for a shower and got to the club meeting just in time.

Cool and wet

The temperature was in the low 50's today with off and on drizzle.  I got in a 2.3-mile trail run at the park this afternoon.

Only Glen and me

Only Glen and me showed up at the park at the new earlier time this evening.  I ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Adjusting to the time change

Maybe it is my age, but adjusting to the time change over the weekend seems to get harder.  I am hungry and sleepy at the wrong time.  I did go to Iron Works an hour earlier than normal for a workout.  Then, I went to the park and ran 2.6 miles on the trails.

Texas 10 Series Katy

I got up at 4:15 this morning to make the trip down to Katy to run the Texas 10 Series 10-miler.  The temperature was in the 80;s and the humidity was close to 100%.  I finished in 2:27:55 and was 4th in the 70 and over age group.  My niece, Amie, was at the finish line and we went out for breakfast after the race and had a nice visit.

Early morning run

I had to go up to Tyler all day for a family thing, so I got up early and went to the track and ran laps.  Got back from Tyler about 8:30 tonight.

Trails rather than laps

Usually, I run laps at the track on Friday.  With no race tomorrow, I went out to the park this afternoon and ran 3.3 miles on the trails.

Usual park run

As usual for Thursday, I met up with the group at the park and ran 3 miles on the roads.  The temperature was back up in the 80's, just when I was getting use to running in the 60's.

Errands in Conroe and The Woodlands

I spent most of the day at a doctors appointment in Conroe and running errands there and in The Woodlands.  I got back late this afternoon and got in a 2.5-mile run at the park, mostly on the trails.

Late post

My PC was being worked on last night, so I never got a chance to post.  The forecast was for a thunderstorm yesterday evening at the time the group meets at the park.  I went out earlier in the afternoon and ran 2.6 miles on the trails.

Nice weather continues

It is suppose to rain tomorrow, but nice weather again today.  After Iron Works, I went out to the park and ran 2 miles on the roads.

Sunday at the park

I still had visiting family this afternoon, but I went out to the park in this great running weather and ran a little over 2 miles, about half on the trails and the other half on the roads.

Huntsville Half Marathon - 50th Wedding Anniverary

I ran the Huntsville Half Marathon this morning and my wife walked the 5K.  We both came in 3rd in our age group.  It was also our 50th wedding anniversary.  I finished in 3:04:14.  It was 37 degrees at the start of the race.  For me, that was ideal, especially with low humidity.  It was nice having family visit this weekend and attend the race.  It was my 91st half marathon.

Another busy day

I had so many things to do today (mostly related to tomorrow's race), I had to make a list.  One item on the list was "run.."  I got to that about mid-afternoon.  I went to the track to run 4 laps.  After my first lap, a police officer stopped and met me at the gate.  At first, I thought I was going to get a speeding ticket.  Instead, he was an old friend and wanted to stop and visit.  So, after he left, I ran 4 laps to get in my continuous mile.

Getting ready for the weekend

I am running the Huntsville Half Marathon this Saturday and I have family coming in for the weekend.  Busy day.  I met up with the group this evening and ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Park roads again

My right calf has been hurting lately and is worse on some days.  Maybe it is something that stems from the hip problem.  Anyway, it was little worse today, so I cut the run to 2 miles on the park roads this afternoon.

Enjoying this cool weather

It was clear again today, with a temperature in the 60's.  After Iron Works, I met up with the group at the park and ran 3 miles on the roads.

Back from Tyler

Yesterday afternoon, I drove up to Tyler for a family get-together and got back to Huntsville this afternoon.  I worked out at Iron Works this evening and then ran 3 miles on the roads at Huntsville State Park.  Here's hoping for no more cancelled races.  I have to find open dates and races to reach my goal of 1,000 races by December 17 and 101 half marathons by February 17.

Another cancelled half marathon

I got up at 4:30 this morning and drove to College Station for the Octoberfest Half Marathon at 7 a.m. at Kyle Field.  Not long after I arrived, it started raining.  Close to 7 a.m., they announced a delay and an 8 a.m. start due to lightning.  Then, close to 8 a.m, they changed it to 9 a.m.  A few minutes before 9 a.m,, they cancelled the race.  Everyone was invited to proceed to the "post race party."  I got my T-shirt, beer mug and a beer and finisher medal.  It quit raining, so I went for a run.  Ran for 1.5 miles and then left town.  Now, I have to find another replacement half marathon.

Willis Volleyball 5K Trail Run

I made the short trip down to Willis to run the Willis Volleyball 5K Trail Run.  This a a nice run put on the high volleyball team.  It is run on trails through the Moran Ranch, 704 acres next to I-45 between Willis and Conroe.  I finished in 40:22.  They did not have age groups, but I won a pumpkin for being the oldest runner (of 94).  The  two lead runners ran into 6 wild pigs on the course, but the ranch dog, who was running the race, ran the pigs off.  They should have given the dog a pumpkin too.
I went from Willis to College Station to pick up my packet for a race there tomorrow.  Then, I got home in time to attend the Sam Houston State football game.  I left at half time and went to church with my wife, since I will not able to make it tomorrow.

Laps at the track

With a couple races this weekend, I ran laps at the track this morning.

Started Year 9

I started my 9th year of streaking today with a 2-mile run on the park roads.  Hoping that my 2 races this weekend are not rained out.

8 Years

I ran 2.6 miles on the trails at the park this afternoon.  This run completed 8 years on my current running streak.

Cool and low humidity

You could not ask for better running weather today.  Cool (60's) and low humidity.  I met up with the group at the park this evening and ran 5 miles on the hilly roads at the park.

Cooler weather

It was about 70 this evening when I went to the park and ran 2 miles on the roads.  Storms predicted this weekend and I have 2 races.  Hope nothing gets cancelled.

No half marathon today

Today, I was suppose to be running my 91st half marathon in Tyler.  But, as reported in an earlier post, the race was cancelled and the company putting it on went out of business.  So, after church this morning, I attended our church bazaar, ate too much and took a nap when I got home.  Then, I went out to the park and ran 3.3 miles on the trails.

Stesti Brewry 5K Trail Run

I drove 40 minutes to the Stesti Brewry out in the sticks near Lovelady this morning to run their 5K Trail Run.  The race had been cancelled and entry fees refunded.  However, they still had the race, complete with bibs, T-shirt, timing, beer and breakfast.  Just no awards.  There were about 40 to 50 runners.  Nice weather.  I ran slow and steady and did not fall or hurt my hip any further.  I finished in 45:38 and got to visit with a lot of friends.

Busy Friday

I had a very busy Friday, doing a lot of non-running related stuff and working on the course for the Huntsville Half coming up in a couple weeks.  In between it all, I went to the track and ran laps.

Park roads

James, who use to run with us at the park, showed up this evening.  We ran 3 miles on the park roads and had a good visit.

Physical results

I got a call this morning from my doctor to inform me that all the lab results were in and everything is good.  I thanked him and told him that I would see him in a couple months for my annual sinus infection. 
I received an email this morning telling me that the Rose Half Marathon in Tyler on Sunday has been cancelled due to extremely low participation.  No refunds, but they will mail T-shirts and finisher medals in a couple weeks.  That is a bunch of crap.  If races are cancelled for that reason, they should give a complete refund.  The race is put on by Mellew Productions.  I emailed George the owner and let him know what I thought.  Told him that I would never participate in one of his races in the future.  Now, I have to figure out how to squeeze in another half marathon somewhere to stay on my schedule to complete half marathon 101 on February 17.
So, after working out at Iron Works this afternoon, I ran 2.6 miles on the trails at the park.

Annual physical

Busy day, starting with my annual physical this morning.  Looks like I may make it another year, depending on the results of the blood work.  I had a lot of errands to run and phone calls to make regarding the Huntsville Half Marathon.  I had just enough time to go to the park and run 2 miles on the roads to get back in time for a 6 p.m. neighborhood party.

Back to trails

After Iron Works, I went to the park this afternoon and ran about. 2.5 miles on the trails.  Next up as far as racing goes, is a 5K and half marathon this coming weekend.

Texas 10 Series Cypress

I ran the Texas 10 Series 10-Miler in Cypress (NW of Houston) this morning.  It got rather warm and humid for the second 5-mile loop.  I finished in 2:23:13, about 13 minutes slower than the same race last year.  However, it was an improvement over my 2:29 some in Huntsville two weeks ago.  It was my 985th race.  After I got home and attempted to take a nap, I met Steve to help me start measuring a new course for the Huntsville Half & Quarter Marathon & 5K.  Not a lot of fun walking around pushing an engineer wheel after running 10 miles.

Back from Wylie

I drove up to Wylie (NE of Dallas) yesterday morning to attend my grandson's 5th grade football game this afternoon.  Got in runs in Wylie yesterday and today.  Ready for 10 miles tomorrow morning.

Course work

Due to roads being torn up in the university area, I have been working on a new course for the Huntsville Half and Quarter Marathon & 5K to be held on October 28.  As a backup, we hoped to start and finish at the football stadium parking lot.  The we found out yesterday that it is not available.  I have since been working on a new venue and course.  I got that all done today and the necessary approvals.  Now, I need to find time to go measure the course.  In the meantime, I met up with the group at the park this evening.  We ended up doing a lot of visiting before our run and it got to be late.  So, I got in just 2 miles on the park roads.  I have a 10-mile race coming up this Sunday.

Combination run

I went out to the park this afternoon and could not decide whether to run roads or trails.  So, I did a combination.  I ran 1.1 miles on the roads and another 1.4 on the trails.

Enjoyed the rain today

I think the rain today was the first since the Hurricane Harvey.  I enjoyed having my coffee this morning on the back porch and watching the rain.  It was a little muggy for my run this evening, though.  I ran 3 miles on the park roads.  Another 10-mile race coming up this Sunday.

Campus run

I ran 2 miles on the streets around the campus this evening.  With our half marathon coming up in less than 3 weeks, I had to check on road construction progress.

Sunday Night 5K

For the 87th time, I ran the Sunday Night 5K in The Woodlands this evening.  I finished in 38:38.  My son from Houston drove up to watch me race and we had dinner after the race before I headed back to Huntsville.

Caprock 5K

For the third year in a row, I ran the Caprock 5K in College Station this morning.  The weather was clear and a little cool.  They had chip timing, but the race results were so screwed up they cancelled the award ceremony.  When I left, the results showed that I was 2nd of 2 in the 70 and over age group, with a time of 41:39.  The results posted online later today shows that I was 5th of 5 in the 70 and over age group.  I am not sure what the correct results are.  In any case, it was my 983rd race.

Track

Since it is Friday and I have a couple races this weekend, I rested up with a mile run at the track.

More trails now open at the park

More trails have been reopened at the state park, but this evening, I opted to run 3 miles on the park roads.  Two 5K's coming up this weekend.

Campus run

I wanted to check out the road construction on the campus today, so I ran a 2-mile loop around the campus.  I survived the traffic.

2,900

Minor milestone.  Today was my 2,900th consecutive day of running.  After Iron Works, I met up with the group at the park and ran 3 miles on the park roads.

Trails

I went back to the park this evening after Iron Works and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Texas 10 Series 10 Miler, Huntsville

I ran the Texas 10 Series 10 Miler here in Huntsville at 7 this morning.  It is billed as the toughest 10 miler in Texas.  The heat and humidity was as challenging as the hills.  With the hip problem, I did not expect a good time.  I ran every step, but ever so slowly.  I finished in 2:29:38, my slowest of 27 Texas 10 Series 10 mile races.  I was the oldest runner in the race and was 4th of 4 in the 70 and over age group.  While the hip was somewhat painful, it held up for the distance.

Woodforest Charity 5K

I ran the Woodforest Charity 5K in Conroe this morning.  Warm and humid, but a very flat course through downtown Conroe and some neighborhoods.  I finished in 40:29 and was 3rd of 4 in the 70 and over age group.

Friday laps

I went to the track this morning and ran laps.  Resting up for the weekend.

Tapering

With a 5K on Saturday and 10-miler on Sunday, I decided to taper a bit.  I met up with the group at the park this evening and ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Veterans Memorial Parkway Run

After Iron Works this evening, I ran 5 miles on the sidewalk along hilly Veterans Memorial Parkway.  Rather warm, low 90's with a heat index of over 100.  Two races coming up this weekend, 5K on Saturday and a 10-miler on Sunday.

First group run at the park since the hurricane

Our group met at the park this evening for the first time since the hurricane.  There are still only a few trails open.  I ran 2.6 miles.

Park roads

It rained off and on today.  First rain since Hurricane Harvey.  After Iron Works this evening, I went to the park to run trails.  After getting there, I decided to run park roads.  Ran 3 miles.  The only car that passed me was a park police officer.  I thought he would give me a speeding ticket, but no such luck.

Running of the Bulls 5K

I ran the Running of the Bulls 5K at NRG Stadium in Houston this morning.  Hot and humid.  I finished in 42:27, which placed me 7 of 11 in the 70 and over age group.  This was my 980th race.

Back to the park

I went back to the park about noon today to run trails.  I have a 5K in the morning, so no long run today, anyway.  Instead of running trails, I just ran 2 miles on the park roads.  Running streak day 2,890.

Park is open again

Huntsville State Park reopened today, but most of the trails are still closed due to fallen tree and bridges.  I did go out there this afternoon and ran 2.6 miles on an open trail.  The trail is pretty rough, with new erosion and exposed roots and small branches on the trail.

Another avenues run

From the track, I ran 2 hilly miles in the avenues.  During the run, I got bit 3 times by horse flies.  Usually, that occurs at the park in the early summer.  What's going on?

Loop around town

I checked earlier today and the state park is tentatively scheduled to reopen this Friday.  In the meantime, I ran a 5.4-mile loop on the streets around town this evening.  With the students in town, heavy traffic and so many streets under construction, not getting run over is a challenge.  This was running streak day 2,887.

Enjoying this cooler weather

This 80's temperature is great for running.  Not a drop of rain since the hurricane a couple weeks ago.  We seem to get too much or none.  I ran an unplanned route from the track this evening.  Across town and around the park on 7th street.  Relatively flat.  Turned out to be 2.6 miles.

Early run

I had to go to The Woodlands this evening for dinner with family, so I went to Iron Works and then out for a run earlier than normal.  I ran an unplanned route around town and the campus.  It turned out to be 2.1 miles.

A couple miles around the campus

This afternoon, I ran 2 miles on the streets around the campus.  There does not seem to be much progress in the road construction.  But surely they will have it completed before our Huntsville Half Marathon on October 28.

Gruene Hall 10K

I ran laps at the track Friday morning and then drove over to New Braunels (north of San Antonio) to run my 7th straight Gruene Hall 10K this morning.  Clear and cool weather, around 70 degrees.  Very comfortable.  I finished in 1:26:13, about 5 minutes slower than my normal.  Because of the hip issue, I took it easy and I stopped once to remove a rock from my shoe.  I was relieved that I did not get sharp pains in the hip.  I was the only runner in the 75-79 age group, so I got first.

Tapering

I guess you can call it tapering.  With a 10K on Saturday, I ran 2 miles in the hilly avenues this evening.  My last 27 races have been 5K's, so the 10K will be a test for my sore hip.

Longer road run

I have a 10K coming up this Saturday, so I need to test the hip.  I ran an unplanned course from the track, which included a loop through my old sub-division.  The course turned out to be 4.9 miles.  The hip held up okay, but not without some pain.  A cool front came through last night and the temperature this evening was in the low 80's.

Park is still closed

Huntsville State Park is still closed due to the hurricane, so no trails today.  After Iron Works, I ran 2 miles around the campus.  Lots of traffic.

Labor Day 5K

This morning, I ran our club's Labor Day 5K in the hilly Spring Lake Sub-division.  Finished in 41:54.

Sunday Night 5K

I ran laps at the track Friday morning and then drove up to Wylie (northeast of Dallas) for a weekend family visit.  I got in a run in the neighborhood Saturday and then drove back to Huntsville this afternoon.  Then, I drove down to The Woodlands for the Sunday Night 5K.  Jon Walk and I ran together and we both finished in 39:26.  It was my 977th race and 2,877th consecutive day of running.

Back to the avenues

It was sunny this afternoon and the temperature was up to about 90.  I was getting use to the lower temperatures due to the storm.  I ran the avenues 5K course this afternoon.  No one stopped and offered me a ride, but I got charged at by two dogs.  No physical contact.  Darn owners.  Don't they know about the leash law?

Missing the park

Another day of running the streets.  Starting to miss trail running at the park.  Hopefully, the park will reopen next week.  I ran 2 miles around the campus this afternoon.  Part of the course was through the campus to avoid the construction area.

It finally passed

Hurricane/Tropical Storm Harvey finally passed.  It rained all morning, but finally stopped this afternoon.  I really feel for those who were hurt so badly by the storm.  While all this is going on, you feel somewhat guilty out running.  However, as long as I can physically keep up the streak, I will keep running.  My hip was hurting a little, so I ran a 1.3-mile loop on the streets in town.

And more rain

It rained virtually all day again today, but less than yesterday. After Iron Works this afternoon, I decided to check out the trails at the state park.  As I drove the mile or so Park Road 40 entrance to the park, I noticed that they had removed about 5 large trees that had fallen on the road.  That was not a good sign.  Then, they told me at the gate that the park was closed for day use and would probably open again after Labor Day.  So, I went back to town and ran an unplanned route on the streets.  It rained the entire time.  An old friend stopped me to tell me I was crazy, but she always said that anyway.  The course turned out to be 3.1 miles.

The rain continues

It rained all day in Huntsville without a break.  Still raining.  The good news was the temperature was down in the low 70's.  This afternoon, I ran the hilly avenues 5K course, which traverses the highest point between Houston and Dallas.  While running in the rain today, I had 3 people stop and offer me a ride.  There are really nice people in Huntsville.

Wet run

The forecast for today was for rain all day from the northeast side of Hurricane Harvey.  So this morning, I ran 2 miles around the campus in the rain.  Not too bad, but at the corner of Bobby Marks and Bowers, the water was half way up to my knees.  I really feel for the people in Houston, where there is much more rain and so much flooding.

Avenues run

We had very little rain today from the hurricane, but are suppose to have tons in the next few days.  I went to the track this afternoon and, from there, ran an unplanned route in the hilly avenues.  It turned out to be 1.8 miles.  My race in The Woodlands tomorrow morning was cancelled.  So, I will have to find another race to stay on target for race 1,000 on December 17.

Hurricane

Hurricane Harvey is scheduled to hit the Texas coast this weekend.  While Huntsville is not in the direct path, we will get lots of rain on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.  So, running may be fun for the next few days.  I have a 5K race in The Woodlands on Saturday.  I wonder if it will be cancelled.  I had an running club officer meeting this evening, so I went out to the park early ahead of the group and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Deep sand

We have had no rain for 2 weeks+, so the trails at the state park and very dry.  In some places, the sand is very deep and tough for running.  With the tropical storm coming in from the Gulf this weekend, we are suppose to get lots of rain.  In the meantime, I went to the park this afternoon and ran 2.5 miles, some of it in deep sand, of course.

Back to the park

After Iron Works this evening, it was back to the park to run with the group.  It was me, Jacob, Glen and Gretchen.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  Still have some lower back pain to go along with some hip pain.  Getting old is not for wimps.

Laps

I usually do not run laps on Monday, but my lower back was still hurting today.  The long run yesterday did not work out whatever caused it.  So, I went to the track this evening and ran laps.

Hot run at the park

Am not sure how I did it, but I pulled a muscle in my lower back while getting dressed for church this morning.  I took 3 Ibuprofen tablets at the restaurant after church and then laid on a heating pad for a long time after getting home.  Then, I filled up the camel back with water and headed for the park.  According to my truck thermometer, the temperature was 99 degrees.  I ran 7.4 miles on the near-empty trails.  My back loosened up a bit, but I did get some pain in the old hip.  I took one fall and skinned up my left knee, which has taken a beating after years of trail running.  At least, I'm ready for a couple 10K's next month and hopefully a 10-miler.

Heat Wave 5K

I ran our club's annual Heat Wave 5K this morning.  As expected, it was hot.  It is held at the Waterwood Sub-division, about 20 miles east of Huntsville.  I finished in 41:52.  Guess my hip is not fully recovered.  I missed this race last year, but in 2015, I ran it in 38:52.  Of course, I was young then.

Four days in a row

For the fourth straight day, I ran my 2.5-mile loop on the trails at the park.  My truck thermometer said it was 99 degrees when I ran at 2 p.m.  Hornets were everywhere, but luckily I did not get them upset.  I remember years ago and one of the races at the park, a runner stirred up a ground hornet's nest.  Me and a bunch of others in the area got stung.

Race Schedule

I have been working on my race schedule for the next few months.  I am trying to reach several goals and have a couple milestones coming up.  My wife and I celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary on October 28, which happens to coincide with the Huntsville Half.  Then, I will run race number 1,000 in Galveston on December 17.  Running streak day 3,000 will be on January 4.  Then, my 101st half marathon will be the Love Run Half Marathon at Huntsville State Park on February 17.  I ran my 101st full marathon at this race in 2014 in honor of all those who have served with the 101st Airborne Division, the unit I served with in Vietnam.  I will do the same for my 101st half marathon.

     In the meantime, I ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park this evening.

Saturday, August 19, Heat Wave 5K, Waterwood
Saturday, August 26, Run the Woodlands 5K, The Woodlands

Sunday, September 3, Sunday Night 5K, The Woodlands                          

Monday, September 4, Labor Day 5K, Huntsville                                       

Saturday, September 9, Gruene 10K, New Braunfels

Saturday, September 16, College Prep 10K, Houston                                  

Sunday, September 17, Running of the Bulls 5K, Houston

Saturday, September 23, Woodforest 5K, Conroe 

Sunday, September 24, TX 10 Series 10-Miler Huntsville

Sunday, October 1, Sunday Night 5K, The Woodlands                        

Sunday, October 8, TX 10 Series 10-Miler, Cypress

Saturday, October 14, Stesti Beer 5K Trail Run, Lovelady

Sunday, October 15, Tyler Rose Half Marathon, Tyler            

Sunday, October 22, Octoberfest Half Marathon, College Station 

Saturday, October 28, Huntsville Half Marathon (50th Wedding Anniversary)

Sunday, November 5, TX 10 Series 10-Miler, Katy

Saturday, November 11, Explore Falls 5K, Spring

Sunday, November 12, Fort Worth Half Marathon

Thursday, November 23, Run the Woods 5-Miler, The Woodlands

Saturday, November 25, Leftover Turkey 5K Run, Huntsville    

Sunday, November 26, First Responder Half Marathon, Waco              

Sunday, December 3, TX 10 Series 10-Miler, Conroe                                 

Saturday, December 9, Reindeer 5K, Lufkin                                               

Sunday, December 10, BCS Half Marathon, College Station

Sunday, December 17, Santa Hustle Half Marathon, Galveston (Race 1,000)           

Monday, January 1, Texas Half Marathon, Kingwood 

Thursday, January 4 – RSD 3,000

Saturday, January 6, River Road Half Marathon, New Braunfels

Sunday, January 7, Sunday Night 5K, The Woodlands

Sunday, January 21, 3M Half Marathon, Austin

Sunday, January 28, TX 10 Series 10-Miler Boerne 

Saturday, February 17, Love Run Half Marathon, Huntsville  (101st Half Marathon)

Back to the park

With many schools now in session and all the road construction in town, traffic is starting to get bad.  As I will do on most days, I went back to the park this afternoon and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Normal Tuesday

After Iron Works, I met up with the group at the park and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Checking on construction

I ran 2 miles around the campus this evening.  I wanted to check on construction of the streets where we will hold the Huntsville Half Marathon on October 28.  Right now, the pavement is completely gone and they are installing large pipes under the street.  It is really a mess right now, but hopefully they will be finished in time for the race.

Stretching out the distance

It's August and I have longer races coming up next month.  I went to the park late this morning and ran 6 miles on the trails.  With this heat and humidity, I will need to carry more than one bottle of water to run farther.

Run the Woodlands 5K

Obviously, I decided to go down to The Woodlands this morning to run RTW 5K.  I finished in a slow 41:08.  In any case, it was my 975th race.

Debating

I am debating with myself as to whether or not to run the The Woodland 5K in the morning.  I estimate that my 1,000th race will be the Santa Hustle Half Marathon in Galveston on December 17, 2017 and have asked them for bib 1,000.  They are considering it and will get back to me.   I've completed 974 races and have a lot of races coming up this Fall.  I may have to slow down to make Galveston 1,000.  I also plan to make the Love.Run Half Marathon on February 17th my 101st half marathon.  Between now and then, I have Texas 10 Series races and some races that I always run.  So, orchestrating all this may be difficult.  I may or may not run the 5K tomorrow.  In the meantime, I went out to the park this afternoon and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Another hot and steamy trail run

We had a larger group at the park this evening, but the same hot and steamy weather.  I ran my normal 2.5-mile loop on the trails.  Curtis met up with a rattlesnake on his run.  I have only seen one snake on the trails all summer.  Maybe I just have bad eyesight.

Solo trail run

After Iron Works this afternoon, I went out to the park and ran 3 miles on the trails.  Did not see another person or creature (except flying ones) on the trail.  Humid as heck.

Just me and Jason

It was just me and speedy Jason at the park this evening.  He ran nearly 5 miles and I ran 2.5 and we finished about the same time.

Campus run

This evening, I ran 2 miles around the campus, partly to check on construction projects that might interfere with upcoming races  on the campus.  There are so many streets dug up and closed for traffic.

Sunday Night 5K

As I do every first Sunday of the month, I ran the Sunday Night 5K in The Woodlands this evening.  My friend, Jon Walk, stayed with me the entire race.  We had a nice visit and solved a lot of world problems.  We finished in 39:18.

Southern Star Brewing 5K

I did not get much sleep last night, but I got up this morning and drove to Conroe to run the Southern Star Brewing 5K.  It was my first race in my new Brooks Dyad running shoes.  I finished in 39:48 (4 seconds faster than last year).  There were two of us in the 70 and over age group and I was second.

Back from Tucson

I got back from Tucson, AZ about 11:30 tonight.  I flew out there early Wednesday morning. to attend my youngest son's graduation from the law enforcement academy.  He is now a Deputy Sheriff in Yuma, AZ.  Had a good time visiting with him and his wife and some of her family.  We had a busy schedule, but I managed to get in runs all three days there.  There was a park with a running trail about 2 blocks from the hotel. There were scattered showers in Tucson, so the temperature and humidity was about the same as Huntsville.  My flight was Tucson to Dallas today was interesting.  Not only crying babies, but two dogs barking at each other.  Back in 1961, I was on a Trans Texas flight (DC-3) from Tyler to Dallas and there was a crate of roosters behind the last seat.  I never thought I would see dogs on planes.  Roosters I can understand.

Regular 2.5 Miles

After mowing my yard and working out at Iron Works, I ran my regular 2.5-mile course at the state park.  Sara joined us for the first time in a while.  Good to see an old friend.

Around the campus

I ran 2 miles around the campus this afternoon, partly because I wanted to check out the progress of the road work in that area.  The Texas 10 Series and the Huntsville Half courses will be on these streets this Fall.  Part of the course for both races is now completely torn up for installation of drainage pipes.  I hope they get finished before the races.

Unusual Sunday morning on the trails

My niece, Amie, came up from Houston yesterday and we went out to the park this morning to run trails with a group that runs on Sunday.  They started at 6:30 a.m. and Amie and I started at 7:30.  I ran 5 miles and was soaked in sweat.  They had a post-run party in the parking lot and it was a good opportunity to visit with a lot of friends.  I was especially glad to see Jane from Cypress, who reads this blog regularly and is kind enough to check on me if I miss blogging for a couple of days.

Moulton Jamboree 5K

I drove down to Schulenburg yesterday afternoon, spent the night there and then drove another 30 minutes or so to Moulton this morning to run the Moulton Jamboree 5K.  My good friend, Loren Sheffer, was there and we had a good visit.  He has run this race several times before.  My first mile was okay, but the hills, heat and humidity got to me.  Plus, the course was a tenth of a mile long, according to my GPS.  I finished in 42:29.  They had a 60 and over age group, so I did not place.  After the race, we visited the Jamboree for a while and then drove down to Shiner for a while before heading back to Huntsville.  This was my 44th race this year.

Friday laps

As usual, it's Friday and I have a 5K in the morning.  I went to the track late this morning and ran laps.

Thursday trails

Normal Thursday.  After Iron Works, I met up with the group at the park and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Flash Mob 5K and new running shoes

For the 3rd consecutive Wednesday, I went down to Cypress this evening to run the Flash Mob 5K,  My wife and Cindy Pate went down with me and my niece, Amie, who lives in Houston, met us there.  Since it was the last race of the series, they had hot dogs, beer and the fixings after the race.  Plus, nice door prizes.  The course this week was on the roads.  Flat and all concrete.  We drove through a rainstorm on the way to the race.  While there was no rain during the race, the temperature was down into the 80's.  My finish time was 37:50, which is what my normal was before the hip injury.  Earlier today, I had a doctor's appointment in Conroe.  So, as long as I was down south, I went to Fleet Feet in The Woodlands and bought a pair of Brooks Dyad running shoes.  While in the store, we weighed my Asics and the Brooks.  The Brooks are nearly 2 ozs. lighter than the Asics.  I'll walk in the Brooks for a few days and then start running in them.

Regular Tuesday

As usual for Tuesday, I worked out at Iron Works and met the group at the park and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Time to get out of Asics

After working out at Iron Works this afternoon, I ran 2.4 miles on the street in town and around the campus.  The new Asics felt like boots.  Stiff and heavy.  I'll have to start looking for a new neutral shoe, maybe Brooks Dyads.

Asics Fortitude

I have been running in Asics Fortitude running shoes for years.  They are "neutral" and are suppose to be the best shoes if you wear custom orthotics.  They keep changing designs over the years.  The latest is the "7" model and it is an ugly gray with red soles.  I finally wore out my last pair of the last model at the race yesterday.  In fact, part of the heel is on the course somewhere.  I ran in the Fortitude 7 model today for the first time.  Not only are they ugly, they felt heavy.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park this afternoon - and survived the embarrassment.

Dog Days 5K

I ran our club's annual Dog Days 5K this morning at the Elkins Lake Sub-division in Huntsville.  The hip is still slowing me down.  I finished in 43:25.  The course is nothing but up and down steep hills.  Last Spring, I ran this course in 40:41.  Seems like the hip is adding a couple minutes to my 5K times.  In any case, it was my 42nd race in 2017 and 970th lifetime.

Seem like a short week

With a race this Wednesday, it seems like a short week with another race tomorrow.  As usual for Friday, I went to the track and ran laps.

Usual Thursday on the trails

After working out at Iron Works, I met up with the group at the park and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Flash Mob 5K

I drove down to Cypress this evening to run the weekly Flash Mob 5K.  Rush hour traffic was terrible on I-45 and for a while I had doubts that I would make it to the race on time.  It has particularly hot and humid and I finished in 40:49, a little slower than last week.

Back from Wylie

After getting back from Wylie late this morning,  I got some rest and then went to Iron Works and then to the park.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Off to Wylie

I have to make a trip up to Wylie (northeast of Dallas) this morning.  So, I did a quick 1.3-mile run on the roads in town this morning.

2,828

Not really a milestone, but today was my 2,828th consecutive day of running.  That's a couple days short of 7 years and 9 months.  I went out to the park this afternoon and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Lunar Rendezvous 5K

I got up early this morning and drove down to the Houston Space Center to run the Lunar Rendezvous 5K.  Hot and humid, as you would expect.  They must have recently closed down a nearby nursing home, because there were 8 of us in the 75 and over age group.  I finished in 40:00, a few seconds behind the 3rd place runner in the age group.  Overall, they had about 500 runners.  The last time I ran this race was on July 16, 1988 when I was 47 years old and finished in 24:48.  The year before, I ran it in 25:02.  It was great running into a lot of friends at the race, including Lance Phegley, Pete Cahill, June Harris, Ben Harvie and Mike Mangan.  This was my 40th race this year and 968th overall.

Laps

It's Friday and with a 5K in the morning, I ran laps at the track this afternoon.

Flash Mob 5K

My computer would not boot up yesterday, so I had to take to the shop.  Got it back this evening.  Last evening, I drove down to Cypress (west of Houston) and ran the Flash Mob 5K.  The first mile was on streets, but the rest was cross country.  I finished in 39:19.  This is a free timed race every Wednesday evening during June and July.  They really did not have age groups, but I was first of two in the 70 and over age range.  The other old guy is a good friend, who normally beats me, but he hung back with his wife.  This evening, I ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park.  The last mile was in a heavy rain.  However, not a drop of rain at my house, 9 miles from the park.

Fell

I ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park this evening, but tripped and fell just before completing one mile.  No injury, but got a little dirty.

Campus run

After working out at Iron Works, I ran a 2-mile loop around the campus.

Sunday at the Park

When I went out to the park this afternoon to run, there was a long line of cars waiting to get in and a long wait.  Am not sure why.  I saw a few hikers on the trail.  There must have been something else going on.  Anyway, I ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  This evening, we had a long heavy rain.  Bet my 4-inch rain gauge is overflowing.

Run the Woodlands 5K

I ran the Run the Woodlands 5K this morning for the 85th time and finished in 39:54.

Laps on Friday

I went to the track this morning and ran laps.  Race tomorrow.

Back to the park

After missing the trail run on Tuesday, I met up with a relatively large group at the park this evening and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  No pain in the hip.  Hope it stays that way.

Sluggish

It was in the high 90's and humidity seemingly about the same this afternoon.  I ran 2 miles on the roads around the campus.  Maybe it was mental, but I felt very sluggish.

Stu's Country Mile 5K

I made the 45-minute trip up I-45 to Centerville this morning to run Stu's Country Mile 5K.  It was my 23rd time running this race and my 22nd consecutive time.  Just as the race started, a storm hit and we ran the whole thing in heavy rain.  There was some lightening, but luckily not on top of us.  I finished in a slow 41:49 and was 2nd of 2 in the 70 and over age group.  I am not sure why my time was slow, rain or hip?  In any case,  I did not seem to aggravate the hip injury.  This was my 965th race.  As usual, our club members had breakfast at the Town Cafe after the race and then watched the 4th of July Parade.

Last therapy appointment

This morning, I had the last of 7 appointments at Physical Therapy Associates.  My hip is still somewhat sore, but my running up to 5K's does not seem to make it worse.  Hopefully, it will be healed before I start running longer races in September.  Since I have another race in the morning, I ran 1.3 miles on the streets in town at 2:30 this afternoon with the temperature in the high 90's.

Sunday Night 5K

My hip was sore this morning, so I took some Ibruprofen today.  This evening, I drove down to The Woodlands and ran the Sunday Night 5K.  This was my 84th time running this race.  That equals the number of times I have run the Run the Woodlands 5K, which uses the same course.  I finished in 38:27, 3 seconds faster than last month.

Independence 5K

I got up early this morning and drove and hour and a half to Deer Park (east of Houston) to run the Independence 5K.  Hot and humid, but a very flat course.  I finished in 39:40 and was 1st in the 70 and over age group (yes, I was the only one).

Usual Friday

As usual on Friday with a race on Saturday, I went to the track this afternoon and ran laps.  This morning, I had the 6th of 7 treatments on my hip.  It still hurts a little, but that might be from all the treatment.

Aided a biker

I met up with the group at the park this evening to run trails.  They all went in another direction and I went to run my normal 2.5-mile course.  I got to a park bench about 2 miles in the run and found a biker on the bench with a broken $7,000 bike.  He said that he was lost and dehydrated.  I was the first person he had seen in 3 hours.  He was only 2/10th of a mile from the nearest camping area.  I walked him to the camping area, where he was able to get water.  I ran a mile on the road back to the Nature Center and then drove back to where I left him.  Someone had driven him back to get his car and he was loading up his bike.  He had told me that he was an ex Delta Force member in the military and had just been laid off from his job in Houston.  He was really stressed out and I'm glad that I was able to help him.  I suppose I ended up running 3 miles.

Avenues 5K Course

I went out to dinner with the family at 5 this evening, so I waited until 8 to run.  I drove to the track and ran the very hilly Avenues 5K course.  This morning, I had my 5th treatment on my hip at the Physical Therapy Associates.  With all the work on it this morning, I felt the hip in the last mile this evening.  Two more treatments to go.  Earlier this afternoon, I had my quarterly appointment with the skin doctor.  He froze a couple spots, one on my leg and one on my forearm. but no surgery needed at this time.

Lightning

Melissa and I were the only ones at the park this evening.  I intended to run 2.5 miles, but as I past the half mile point, it started lightning in the immediate area.  I turned around and ran back.  I got in a mile, but survived.  Brave Melissa kept going and finished up a long run, which included very heavy rain for most of the run.

Busy day

This morning, I ran an unplanned course around the city and campus.  It turned out to be 2.8 miles.  Then, I mowed the lawn, ate lunch and went to my therapy appointment at 2 p.m.  Got out at 3:30 and went down to Humble (northwest of Houston) to get my camera fixed.  I thought I would have to leave it, but as it came out, the problem was the removable lens.  I bought a new lens at the camera shop and the camera is working fine now.  From there, I drove down to Houston for a 7 p.m. presentation by Laura Lee Huttenbach, author of the book, Running with Raven.  I appreciate getting to meet her and two other runners at the presentation who had run with the Raven.

Campus run

This afternoon, I ran 2 miles on the roads around the campus.

Polish Pickle 5K

For the 22nd consecutive year, I ran the Polish Pickle 5K in Bremond.  Drove through heavy rain on the way to the race.  There was light rain during the race and then none after the race.  All in all, it was relatively cool.  I finished in 38:15, about a minute slower than last year.  No problem with my hip, even though I felt a dull pain.  I usually place in this race, but not today.  I was 4th of 7 in the 75-79 age group.

Friday laps

I had a long treatment session today at Physical Therapy Associates.  I as more sore from the treatment than I was before going in.  With a 5K tomorrow, I ran laps at the track this afternoon.

Found time for a run

I still have a house full of visiting family, but found time to get in 2 miles around the campus this afternoon.  We went out to dinner tonight, so I missed running trails with the group this evening.

Campus run

I had my second treatment at Physical Therapy Associates this morning and ran 2 miles around the campus this afternoon.

Back to the trails

I met up with the group this evening and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  No pain in the hip and I felt like I ran my normal slow pace.

First therapy appointment

I had my first appointment this morning for therapy work on my hip.  Six more to go.  With a lot of visiting family, I slipped out of the house this afternoon and ran an unplanned route in the hilly avenues.  It turned out to be 1.4 miles.

Lots of family visiting

Starting today, I will have a house full of visiting family for a few days.  I squeezed in laps at the track this afternoon for running streak day 2,800 (7 years and 8 months).

June Bug 5K

I ran our club's annual June Bug 5K this morning at the hilly Spring Lake Sub-division.  As intended, I ran a slow 43:16.  No sharp pain in my hip, just a dull one.  This race was my 961st race and 2,799th consecutive day of running.

Doctor's appointment

I had an appointment with the doctor this morning to have my hip pain checked out.  It is an inflammation of the IT band where it connects to the hip, not the hamstring.  He gave me a cortisone shot.  I ran laps at the track this afternoon and iced it.  Feels much better tonight.  My insurance company approved 7 treatments at Physical Therapy Associates and I start there Monday.  At this point, I will skip Cryotherapy and save that out-of-pocket expense.  I will attempt a 5K race in the morning, but will run slower than my normal slow.

Ventured off the track

The Cryotherapy place never called today, so I never made it there for treatments.  Maybe tomorrow after my doctor's appointment in the morning.  I went to the track this afternoon, but decided to try the roads.  I ran a careful 1.3-mile loop without much difficulty.

Call from the doctor's office

I have been waiting for a call from Physical Therapy Associates and an appointment to start the treatment on my hip.  This afternoon, I got a call from the Physicians Assistant in my doctor's office telling me that I have to be seen by their office before being referred for treatment.  The referral on Monday should not have been sent.  The first available appointment at the doctor's office is this Friday morning.  Damn.  I am suppose to get two Cryotherapy treatments tomorrow.  Maybe I will be completely healed after that.  For the fourth day in a row, I ran laps at the track and there was less pain.

Still waiting for treatment

I had hoped to get into Physical Therapy Associates to start treatment today, but did not get a call.  I did get back to the track this evening for a careful and steady one-mile run.

Pending treatment

I got a quick referral from my doctor this morning and a quick appointment at Physical Therapy Associates to evaluate my hamstring problem.  Now, I have to wait for them to get approval on a treatment plan from my health insurance company.  In the meantime, I tried to get an appointment for Cryrotherapy, but it looks like I have to wait until Thursday when they get a new shipment of nitrogen gas.  I ran another mile at the track this evening with much pain and iced it when I got home.

The streak lives

I took Ibuprofen today and spent an hour or so on a heating pad.  Late this evening, I went to the track and managed to run one mile.  It was painful, but I don't think I damaged the hamstring further.

Greyhound 5K

For the 6th straight year and 7th time, I ran the Greyhound 5K in Kosse, Texas.  This is a small town about 88 miles from my house.  It turned out to be a bad day.  About a half mile into the race, I experienced a bad pain in my right hip.  I suppose it is where the hamstring connects to the butt.  I nearly collapsed.  I thought that I need to stop and go back, but I started thinking about the fact that I have never had a DNF (Did not Finish).  I kept going, although slowly.  I kept an easy pace and the pain dulled somewhat.  It started grabbing me again with about a half mile to go.  I limped across the finish line in 45:53 (2nd in 70 and over age group).  After the race, a couple good friends and I had breakfast at the Kosse Cafe.  When I got home, I went back to the heating pad and Ibuprofen.  Right now, I cannot imagine running even a mile tomorrow.  Monday, I need to go to the doctor and start getting it treated.  Maybe Cryotherapy will help.

Laps

It's Friday, I have a 5K tomorrow and my hip is still sore.  I ran laps at the track this morning and took Ibuprofen.

More heat

My hip was still sore today, so I applied heat and ran only 2 miles on the trails at the park this evening.

The Big Run 5K

I ran the Big Run 5K in The Woodlands this evening to celebrate Global Running Day.  The race was put on by Fleet Feet and started and finished at their store.  Entry was free, but they gave away T-shirts, beer and other refreshments.  It was not timed, but my watch indicated a 38:21 finish for me.  I put heat on my sore hip earlier today and took more Ibuprofen.  I felt okay during the run this evening, but am a little sore tonight.

Another recovery day

My hip was still sore today.  I put a heat pad on it for a while and took Ibuprofen.  The evening, I met the group at the park and did a short 1-mile+ run on the trails.

Sore hip

I woke up this morning with a sore hip.  Am not sure where that came from.  I managed to get in a 1.3-mile run on the roads in town this evening.  It was at least very uncomfortable.

USO Freedom 5K and Sunday Night 5K

For the first time, I ran the USO Freedom 5K in downtown Houston this morning.  It started and finished at the St. Arnold's Brewery.  I finished in 39:40, which was good for 2nd place in the 65 and over older age group.  This evening, I went down to The Woodlands and ran the Sunday Night 5K.  I finished in 38:30.

Short run in Tyler

I drove up to Tyler yesterday afternoon to attend a Friday night wedding.  I ran 1-mile+ on the roads in Tyler before driving back to Huntsville this afternoon.  Two races tomorrow.

Friday morning run

I have to go up to Tyler for the rest of the day, so I ran a 2-mile loop on the streets around the campus this morning.

Trails after a heavy rain

We had a short, but heavy, rain at the park this evening.  I met up with the group shortly afterwards.  No rain during the run, but it was hot and steamy for my 2.5-mile trail run.

Avenues run

This afternoon, I ran an unplanned course through the hilly avenues.  It turned out to be 3.2 miles.

Catching up

Yesterday, my wife and I hosted our club's annual Memorial Day 5K & 1-Mile Run/Walk at my house.  It stormed Sunday night, but there was no rain Monday morning for the race.  I think the weather scared a lot of runners off.  We had 55 runners, compared to 90 last year.  With breakfast for everyone and the set up and take down of all the race stuff, it was a lot of work.  I was beat after taking everything down and putting it in storage.  I went to the track and ran 1.3 miles on the roads from there.  Today, I worked out at Iron Works and then met the group at the park.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails and saw my first snake on the trails for this season.  I believe it was a rat snake.

Getting ready for tomorrow

Tomorrow, we are having our club's annual Memorial Day 5K & 1-Mile, starting and finishing in my driveway.  We usually have about 100 runners, plus family members and breakfast is served after the race.  So, there is a lot of work getting ready today and then a lot of work before the 8 a.m. start tomorrow.  There is a 60 percent chance of thunderstorms at 8. so that is a worry.
I took a break at 2 this afternoon and ran 2 miles on the roads around the campus.  Another hot and humid day.

Run the Woodlands 5K

For the 84th time, I ran the Run The Woodlands 5K.  Hot and humid and I finished in a slow 39:45.  It was the first time ever after about 175 or so races I ran in The Woodlands that I got attacked by biting horseflies.  I thought they were only at Huntsville State Park.  I got bit twice and they hurt.

New orthotics arrived

I picked up my new orthotics late this afternoon.  They feel much more comfortable than the old ones I have been wearing for the last 3 weeks or so.  I immediately went to the track and ran one mile to break them in for a 5K race tomorrow morning.

7-7-7

My running streak reached a minor milestone today.  With my 2.5-mile trail run at Huntsville State Park this evening, I have run every day for 7 years, 7 months and 7 days.  More importantly, I get my new orthotics tomorrow.  It has not been comfortable running in the real old ones I have been using the past few weeks.

Long day

I got up early this morning, picked up my son and drove down to Sugar Land for the first game of the Southland Conference Baseball Tournament between Sam Houston State and Stephen F. Austin.  They called the game after 7 and a half innings on the 10-run rule.  Sam won by a score of 13-1.  We stopped in Houston on the way back and had lunch with another son.  I finally got around to running this evening, but then I ran short of time due to a family dinner.  I managed to get in 2 miles on the park roads.

Trails in good shape

Even after the heavy rain yesterday, the trails at the park were in good shape.  The trails were so dry before the rain, it soaked in quickly.  Anyway, I ran 2.5 miles.

Heavy rain today

We had a much needed heavy rain this morning.  In fact, my 4-inch rain gauge was overflowing.  Later this afternoon, I worked out at Iron Works and then ran a completely unplanned course around town and the campus.  It turned out to be 2.8 miles.

Sunday morning run

My wife and I went to church yesterday evening, so I had my Sunday morning free.  I went out to the park and ran my normal 2.5-mile loop.  Usually, by this time of year the biting horse flies are out.  So far, they have not bothered me.  Maybe I am just running too fast.

Five-0 5K Color Run

I ran the Five-0 5K Color Run in Huntsville this morning.  I'm normally not into color runs, but it was put on by the Huntsville Police Department and I sure want to support them.  It was hot and humid and a hilly course and about 3.3 miles.  I finished in 42:15.  This was my 955th race and my 2,771st consecutive day of running.

Short Friday run

It's Friday and I have a race tomorrow.  I ran 1.3 miles on the roads in town this afternoon.

Back to the trails

I ran my 2.5-mile loop on the trails at the park this evening and carefully avoided the root (really a knot) that I tripped on day before yesterday.

Road run at the park

I was tired today from doing some plumbing work at the house.  All that up and down and back and forth to the tool box and to Home Depot.  So, I went to the park this afternoon and ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Took a fall

I ran my usual 2.5-mile loop on the trails at the park this evening.  I tripped on a root, took a fall and cut my left knee in the usual place.  After falling, I realized that I tripped on the same root that I tripped on about 3 weeks ago and cut my knee, which just finished healing.  I wonder how many times over the years that I cut that knee in the same place.  It keeps on healing.  I also wonder if some point it will not heal anymore and I have to get a skin replacement.

Late post

Here it is after midnight and I forgot to post.  After Iron Works this afternoon, I ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park.  I did not see anyone else on the trails - nor any creatures.

Sunday at the park

I had family coming in this afternoon for Mother's Day, so I went out to the park late this morning and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  The trails were crowded with people taking their mother for a hike.

Run the Woodlands 5K

I ran the Run the Woodlands 5K this morning and finished in 38:38.

Laps

As usual for many Fridays, I went to the track and ran laps this afternoon.

Missed the group run

I had to make an unexpected trip to Houston this evening, so I missed the group run at the park.  However, I went out there about 3:30 p.m. and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Solo at the park

I went out to the park alone this afternoon and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  I learned later that a lady from Houston drowned at Raven Lake at the park about 10 this morning.

New runner

Melissa joined the trail running group at the park this evening.  She recently changed shifts at work, so hopefully she will be a regular.  She and I ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Ran short of time

I had to take the family out to dinner this evening and had a club meeting after that.  I got off to a late start and ended up working out at Iron Works and then running laps at the track.

Sunday Night 5K

I ran the monthly Sunday Night 5K in The Woodlands this evening.  I finished in 37:26.  It was my 25th race in 2017.  Last year, I was at 28 by this time.

Cinco de Mayo 5K

I got up at 5 this morning to drive down to Houston to run the Cinco de May 5K.  The course was out and back on a very flat asphalt street and the temperature was in the 50's.  I finished in 36:52 and was 6 of 7 in the 70 and over age group.
After getting a short nap in Huntsvlle, I drove up to Tyler for a family thing and got back to Huntsville late tonight.

Friday short run

As usual for most Fridays, I took it easy today.  I ran 1.3 miles on the streets in town late this morning.

Broken orthotics

I did not mention it before, but while in California, the hard plastic part of my orthotics broke in half.  In fact, I ran the 10-mile race on Monday with them broken.  I put on a very old pair when I got back to Huntsville and it is hard to run in them.  I went down to Conroe this afternoon to see a podiatrist to have new ones made.  I was amazed that he never examined my feet and had a substitute start casting.  I'm not sure what I am going to get in 5 weeks.
After Iron Works this evening, I ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park.

It was suppose to rain

We were suppose to have thunderstorms all afternoon, so I ran this morning.  I ran a completely unplanned route through the hilly avenues.  It turned out to be 2.2 miles..  No thunderstorms, but a short heavy rain in town late this evening and a little rain at my house.

Late post

My computer konked out late tonight and I just now was able to get it restarted.  Other than that, it was back to normal after the trip to California.  I worked out at Iron Works this evening and then ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park.

Back from California

I just got back from California tonight.  On Friday, my wife and I flew out to Palm Springs to attend the 3-day Stagecoach Country Music Festival in nearby Indio. We stayed in the Marriott Resort in Palm Desert.  The festival started at noon each day and was over at midnight.  There was a mix of old and new country singers, including Willie Nelson, Jerry Lee Lewis, Shania Twain, Kenny Chesney, Cody Johnson from Huntsville and a bunch of others.  I was really impressed with the Jerry Lee Lewis performance.  While watching, I look over and Prescilla Presley and Tom Jones were standing in the audience a few feet from me.  Anyway, the festival was quite an experience, but there were there was a lot of walking involved.  It was about a mile from the shuttle bus to the festival, which itself covered at least a square mile.  Someone said there were 80,000 attendees.  Incidently, I won the all expenses-paid trip.

More importantly, here is my running report:  The Texas 10 Series Sienna (Houston) was on Sunday.  It was the first one I missed in the series since I started the series in 2013.  That was a bummer.  However, I ran it virtually this morning in Palm Desert.  For some purposes, I will get credit for it.  The sidewalk around the perimeter of the Marriott Resort we stayed in was 3.8 miles, including the driveway to and from the front door.  I got in shorter runs on the sidewalk on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  This morning, I ran the 3.8-mile loop twice and an out and back to get in 10 miles.  The challenge was getting enough water for the dry and hot weather.  I carried water with me for the first loop and the doorman gave me a couple bottles of water for my second loop.  They were out of water at the door after my second loop.  I gutted it out for my out and back.  I finished in 2:23:56, about 10 minutes slower than usual for 10 miles.

After the 10 miles, we had a late breakfast in Palm Desert and then headed to Palm Springs for a 1:20 flight this afternoon.  It was an over-booked United flight and they were offering $1,000 for volunteers to get off the flight.  I was tempted.

Only one

I was the only one who showed up at the park this evening.  I got in 2 miles on the park roads.

Hard fall

While running 2.5 miles on the trails at the park this afternoon, I tripped on a root and took a hard fall.  Besides a bloody knee, I'm okay.  I thought I knew the roots on that course.

Park roads

Today was very busy, but I managed to get in a 3-mile run on the roads at the state park.  Just as I was finally going to Iron Works about 9 tonight, two high school girls from the neighborhood showed up at my door to asked me to cut out some things from plywood for their science project.  Of course, I showed up at Iron Works with sawdust in my hair.

Ran out of time

I ran 2 miles on the park roads this evening.  I should have done more, but I had to be somewhere this evening and ran out of time.

Sunday at the park

It was relatively cool this afternoon and a great day for trail running.  I had to attend an affair this afternoon, so I got out to the park a little later than I had hoped.  I still go in 3.5 miles on the trails.

Spring Fling 5K

I ran our club's annual Spring Fling 5K in at Elkins Lake in Huntsville this morning.  The steepness of the hills is reflected in my finish time of 40:41.  In any case, it was 950th race.

Short trail run

I went out to the park this afternoon and ran 2 miles on the trails.  The temperature was near 90 and tomorrow night it is suppose to get down to 49.

In-town run

I was short of time this afternoon, so I squeezed in a 2-mile run on the roads around the campus.  The traffic reminds me of why I run at the park most of the time.

Started the second half

I started the second half of my 8th year of streaking with another 3-mile road run at the park.

7.5

With a 3-mile road run at the state park this evening, I reached the 7.5-year mark on my current running streak.

Full to empty

After the park was full yesterday and I was not able to get in to run, it was virtually empty this afternoon.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails and only saw one rabbit.

Easter

Today was Easter and I had a lot of family visiting.  After church and lunch, I slipped away and went to the state park to run.  When I got there, it was full and cars were waiting for space a mile from the entrance gate.  In the 25 years or so I have been going to the park on a regular basis, it was the first time I have seen the park full and cars being blocked from entering.  I made a u-turn on Park Road and then drove back into town and ran laps at the track.

Texas Big Star Half Marathon

I ran the Texas Big Star Half Marathon in Frisco (north of Dallas) this morning.  There were 1,068 finishers, so it was a big race.  They had another 640 finish the 5K.  It was my 90th half marathon and they gave me bib 90 and I was interviewed on camera for a video they are doing on the race.  Nice weather, but it got hot the last hour.  I finished in 3:02:00 and won 1st place in the 75 and over age group (I was the only one).  That gives me 17 half marathon for this season (October - April).  My goal is to run 101 at the Love.Run Half Marathon next February.

Friday laps

Since it is Friday and I have a race tomorrow, I ran laps at the track this morning.

Only me and Glen

It was only me and Glen who showed up at the park to run trails this evening.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  Glen ran 3 miles and we finished about the same time.

Short trail run

Easy day; I ran 2 miles on the trails at the park this afternoon.

Solo park run

After Iron Works this evening, I went to the park, but no one else showed up  We had heavy rains today, but it had cleared up about 4 p.m.  It was day 2 of breaking in the new shoes, so I ran 3 miles on the park roads.

New shoes

I put on a new pair of shoes today and ran 2 miles on the roads at the park, partly in the rain.  Looking toward half marathon number 90 this Saturday.

Vintage Park Half Marathon

We had nice sunny and not too hot weather for the Vintage Half Marathon in northwest Houston this morning.  Obviously, being in Houston, it was a flat course, mostly on concrete.  I finished in 3:01:18 (as usual, I had hoped to break 3 hours).  I was 2nd of 4 runners in the 70 and over age group.  Half marathon number 89 done.

Blue Bell 5K

I ran the Blue Bell 5K in Brenham this morning.  I usually run the 10K, but with a half marathon tomorrow, I opted for the 5K.  Nice weather and a hilly course.  I finished in 38:48, which was good for 1st place of 2 runners in the 75-79 age group.  The award was a medal and a gift card for a pint of Blue Bell Ice Cream.  This was my 947th race.

Short road run

With two races this weekend, I rested today with a 1.3-mile road run in town late this morning.

Streaker article

This is an article about streaking in Texas, published in the April issue of Texas Runner & Triathlete Magazine.  Hope it inspires others to start streaking.  This evening, I ran my 2.5-mile loop on the park trails.  Nice weather continues.

Dog attack

After working out at Iron Works this afternoon, I went out to the park to run trails.  About a half mile out, a loose pit bull mix dog came at me in a vicious manner.  The owner grabbed him by the collar just in time.  I reminded the idiot that its a $500 fine for having a unleashed dog in the park.  Anyway, I finished my run, which turned out to be 4 miles.  Beautiful weather; clear and in the 60's.

Nice weather this week

After a stormy weekend, the weather has been nice this weekend.  Hopefully, it will continue through this weekend.  I have a 5K on Saturday and a half marathon on Sunday.  I do not need any more cancelled races.  I met up with the group at the park this evening and ran my "normal" 2.5 miles on the trails.

Back to Monday

After a disappointing weekend with the cancelled half marathon yesterday, I worked out a Iron Works this afternoon and then ran 3 miles on the trails at the park.

Sunday Night 5K

Yesterday, I ran laps at the track and then drove to San Antonio for the AlamoFest Half Marathon this morning at the AlamoDome.  We were lined up at the starting line at 7:20 a.m.  They had a prayer and some lady sang the National Anthem.  No starting gun.  After a few minutes, they announced that the race was cancelled due to a heavy storm approaching San Antonio.  I headed back to my truck and drove back to Huntsville.  It was suppose to be my 89th half marathon.  So, I drove down to The Woodlands this evening and ran the Sunday Night 5K.  My friend, Jon Walk, ran the whole thing with me and we had a nice visit.  Our time was 37:43

Trails on Friday

I usually have a race on Saturday and run laps at the track on Friday.  No race tomorrow, so I went out to the park and ran my usual 2.5-miles on the trails.

Zoo

I took my wife, daughter and grand daughter down to the Houston Zoo today.  I think that it was my first visit there in about 25 years.  Perfect weather; sunny and the temperature in the low 70's.  My recollection of the zoo was that it was a long walk between exhibits.  I suppose that many more exhibits and animals have been added and now it is just huge.  I got back to Huntsville just in time to go out to the park and run 2.5 miles with the group.

Spider webs

I suppose that it is getting to be that time of the year.  There are spider webs across the trails at the state park.  Now, I have to run behind bikers.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails this afternoon and had to break a few webs.  This weekend, I have a half marathon on Sunday in San Antonio.  The course includes a run through Fort Sam Houston, where I was stationed in the Army in 1961.  This should bring back some memories.  The weather forecast for Sunday in San Antonio is 100 percent chance of thunderstorms.  Ugh.

Trails, again

After Iron Works, I met up with the group at the park.  I ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Park roads

Instead of running trails this afternoon, I ran 2 miles on the park roads.

Texas 10 Series College Station

I made the on-hour drive over to College Station this morning to run the Texas 10 Series 10-Miler at 7 a.m.  About 15 miles from Huntsville, the road was closed due to an accident.  There were flashing lights for a quarter mile or so.  While waiting, I had thoughts of being stuck for so long that I would miss the race.  As it came out, I was only held up for 20 minutes and made it to the race with time to spare.  I finished the 10 miles in 2:16:06.  I think it was my 2nd slowest of the 25 Texas 10 Series races that I have run.  Maybe it was the heat and humidity.  I'm not sure, but I need to do better.  I did place 2nd of 3 runners in the 70 and over age group.

American Legion 5K

This morning, I drove down to Jersey Village, a city on the northwest edge of Houston, to run the American Legion 5K.  The race did not start until 8:30, so I did not have to get up too early.  I had never run this race before, nor have I ever run in Jersey Village.  I finished the flat, double looped course in 36:53, which placed me 2nd of 3 in the 60 and over age group.  Race number 944.

Regular Friday

With two races this weekend, I made it a regular Friday with laps at the track - and a lot of yard work.

3.5 miles of yard work

This afternoon, I had to broadcast fire ant killer on my whole lawn (1 acre lot).  Just for the heck of it, I put on my GPS to see how much walking back and forth with the spreader I had to do to get it done.  It came out to 3.5 miles.  Then, I went to Iron Works and met the group at the park for a 2.5-mile trail run.

3003

Just realized that I have posted on this blog just over 3,000 times since my first entry on April 19, 2008.  Today is 3003.  I realize that the blog is probably the most boring online, but it is part of my "system of motivation."  It helps keep me accountable for my running and streaking.  If it helps anyone else, that is great.
This heat wave in March continues; it was in the 80's again today.  I went to the park this afternoon and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Hot

I'm not sure what the high temp was today, but my truck thermometer said 93 degrees when I went out to the park to run.  I met up with the group and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.  This weekend, I plan to run a 5K on Saturday and 10-miler on Sunday.  Then, half marathons the next three weekends.

New trails

After Iron Works this afternoon, I went out to the park and ran 2.2 miles on the new trails adjacent to the park.  Feels like summertime.  I have three more half marathons to run this season; hope it cools down a bit.

Club run at the park

We had our club's annual 3.5-mile non-competitive trail run at Huntsville State Park this afternoon.  I worked as a course guard and photographer, but I ran 2.5 miles on the trails this morning.

Seabrook Lucky Trails Half Marathon

I got up at 4:30 this morning to drive down to Seabrook to run the Seabrook Lucky Trails Half Marathon.  Rather warm (up to about 80) and humid.  The course is two loops on a gravel trail.  I finished in 3:01:58 and was 1st of 2 in the 75-79 age group.  Last year, my time was 3:08 something.

Friday at the track

Usual Friday.  I am running half marathon number 88 tomorrow, so I ran laps at the track early this afternoon.

Park is still crowded

We have had beautiful clear and cooler weather all week and the state park is full of spring breakers.  I'm not use to seeing that many people on the trails.  After Iron Works, I met up with the group at the park and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Another late post

Gosh.  Here it is after midnight and I have not posted for Wednesday.  I worked out a Iron Works this afternoon and ran 2.5 miles on the trails at the park.

Late post

I forgot to post before midnight, but I did not forget to run today (Tuesday).  I ran 4 miles on the trails at the park, dodging a lot of spring break bikers and hikers.

Circus

I took my wife, daughter and granddaughter to the circus in Huntsville this evening.  I suppose that was the first time I have been to a circus in nearly 50 years.  They had some nice acrobat acts, but were a little light on animals (2 elephants, 4 horses and 1 dog).  So, earlier in the day, I worked out at Iron Works and ran 3 miles on the trails at the park.

Back to Houston

Later yesterday, I drove back down to Houston to watch my son and daughter perform in a club last night.  I spent the night in Houston and got back this afternoon.  I went out to the park and ran 2.5 miles on the trails.

Law Week 8K

For the first time ever, I ran the Law Week 8K in Houston this morning.  It was the 32nd annual, so I have missed a few.  After I got into a parking garage, I realized that I left my wallet at home.  I had friends at the race who offered to bail me out of the garage, but I pushed the call button and a nice lady opened up the gate for me for free.  I finished the race in 1:04:52 and got a nice framed artwork for 2nd place in the 75-79 age group (there was only 2 of us).  I also won a door prize, which was 5-$20 gift cards to Tiff's Treats, which I understand is a cookie store(s) in the Houston area.  I wander how many calories in that door prize.

Minor milestone - 2,700 days

Today was my 2,700th consecutive day of running.  With a race tomorrow, I ran laps at the track this afternoon and then cut up a tree that I cut down yesterday.  I'm tired.