Marc and Tanya's Running Blog

Whats up next?

2011-05-03T18:19:00.000-07:00

It is now November 3, 2011 and I never posted the below post, Tanya and I have been so busy. We have still exploring and having all types of adventures. I will begin posting on the regular soon, and will bring everyone up to day on our explorations and many races :))
It is hard to believe it is already June 2011 and I haven't posted since November 2010. But Tanya and I are still enjoying life and clocking the miles. Much has happened in our lives and families, but this is not the forum to go into detail; and not what you probably want to read about anyway. To get you right up to speed on our endurance endeavors; we have shifted gears of late; in the past we have used cycling and mountain biking as cross training to improve our running; but that seems to be the opposite now. With the dream of competing in Kona together one day at the Ironman we have been logging many,many mile on our bikes. On Saturday May 1, we rode the Temecula Challenge which is touted as an extremely tough century with over 10,000 feet of elevation gain. In a Comparison of other great rides there are only 3 other races in California with more total gain in elevation. What attracted us to this event was the fact that is was a 2 day challenge. The Century on Saturday followed by a Sprint Triathlon on Sunday; but sadly the Triathlon was cancelled due to scheduling conflicts.

Being our first Century we didn't exactly what to expect, but barring no technical difficulties we were confident that we would complete to ride in the allotted 11 hour cutoff. Besides it was not a race it was a ride, though there was a time trial on the climb up Mt. Palomar the highest point and longest climb of the ride. In 2009 this was Stage 8 of the Amgen Tour of California, we looked forward to giving our best effort on this climb.

We had an fun but challenging day, the hills never did seem to end, but other then a few close calls with vehicles and a flat tire at miles 96!! We had an incredible day.

I woke up Sunday a little tired and a little sore. Nothing like the agony I sometimes experience the day after a 50 mile trail race. So I got to thinking why not ride the L'Etape Du California

which was the next Saturday. So Monday I woke up feeling great !

Much more to come soon!!!!!!!!!

Windy in Riverside

2010-11-16T14:30:00.000-08:00

Tanya and I where in Riverside CA on Sunday to run the Mission Inn Run's 1/2 Marathon. We left our watches at home and just went out for a long run with a bunch of friends. The course was relatively flat which would have made for a fast course, but the infamous Santa Ana winds where visiting for the week. To say the least it got pretty interesting heading north into the winds for miles 8-10, but we had a lot of help at the turn around on this out and back section. There was a very nice tail wind!
MJ

Ultimate Vegan Wrap

2010-11-08T13:07:00.000-08:00

Last week I had the opportunity to cook for and with, a group of ladies who are also fitness clients of mine. I decided to introduce them to one of my favorite lunch time meals; a vegan wrap. Making the wrap is simple and quick. Preparation time and cooking is less then 30 minutes.
In a pan with a little olive oil, add onions, red / green peppers and cabbage. Saute at med/high heat to your liking. I like my vegetables al dente sometimes; other times more caramelized. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

In another pan with a little olive oil, saute slices of yams (pre-boiled and skinned) until edges form a crispy crust.

On a lavish whole wheat wrap, first spread a layer of hummus followed by black beans. On top of that add liberally the onions, peppers and cabbage. Add salsa or hot sauce if you would like. Then carefully roll and cut in half.

Add cherry tomatoes as a side and BAM!! The "Ultimate Vegan Wrap" will simulate your taste buds. This is a healthy low fat meal that packs highly nutritional punch.

Remember "Eating healthy is easy". Your body will love you for it!

Dr. M

Tanya Johnson: Ultra Runner

2010-10-19T11:51:00.000-07:00

I love this picture of my wife, it was taken a few years back while she was running the Javalina Jundred. The Javalina in a 100 mile ultra-endurance race held each year in AZ. Why do I love this picture? Well I see so much there, maybe things only I can see. I see strength, beauty, focus, intensity, determination, dedication,... poetry, but most of all I see the woman that I love. To love someone, and to be loved is the greatest gift. I thank the creator for allowing me to spend my days with her.

Long Beach 1/2 Marathon

2010-10-18T17:30:00.000-07:00

Sunday Tanya and I ran the Long Beach 1/2 marathon. Not boasting, but I can get accustomed to these shorter distance races. Let me elaborate on some of the reasons why. Planning is pretty simple, show up and run. Ultras: drop bags/electrolytes/nutrition/clothing: what to pack, which aid station to leave it at, when will you get to it. Time is a biggie: 1/2 marathon less than 2 hours, home in time to see the second half of the early game (West coast). East coast home in time to see the whole game! Ultra's, depending on the distance (5-29+ hours), forget about the games period! Monday night football ? maybe in a coma!

So with that said, you decide!

Time to go watch the game!!

Finally Done

2010-09-29T07:45:00.000-07:00

On Sunday September 26, 2010 I completed the "Las Vegas Triathlon" (Olympic distance). For those of you who don't know the break down of each event in the Olympic distance; let me tell you. The swim is 1.5K (0.932 miles), the bike is 40K(24.85 miles), and the run is 10K(6.21 miles). I titled this post finally done simply because I have been contemplating doing a triathlon for about 2 years. I was getting tried of hearing about me doing one myself! I must say I had large goals when the thought of triathloning came into my mind, I said I'm going to sign up and do an Ironman. I had these thoughts because of my running background and resume of ultra marathons, I thought heck if I can run 30, 50, even 100 miles I can do an Ironman! But thank you Lord, my wife was the voice of reason, she said "Marc,.. honey why don't you do a shorter distance first, then build up to the Ironman distance. Try a TRI out first and see if you even like doing them!" I am glad I listened to her, and I will explain why later.

The Journey began back in June. Personal training client, and friend Ray and I made the commitment and signed up for the Las Vegas triathlon. We chose Las Vegas because it was a lake swim, September in Vegas is still warm and purchasing a wet suit would not be necessary. I committed to the Olympic distance and Ray the sprint distance.

Fast forward to race morning, though I was nervous about the race especially the swim portion, I slept soundly. Tanya and I were up a 4am, the transition area opened at 5am and it was first come first serve. I wanted to get what I thought would be a good spot. Not long after getting to the Lake and setting up my transition area, we met up with Ray and his wife Jeannette. The day previous we checked out the swim area and drove the cycle course, but the vision of how far the buoy's where off shore for each of our races shot a bullet of doubt across our minds. They looked so incredibly far off shore. We had spent the last 3 months training in a pool, we were going to have to adjust to open water swimming on the fly.

I was up first, the Olympic distance men started at 7am, the Olympic distance women at 7:10, and the Sprint distance men (Rays group) at 7:20am. As I began stripping down to my swim gear, Ray kept saying "man I'm glad I don't have to swim as far as you do, man that buoy is way out there!" I know he was having fun, but he was right, that buoy was way out there! Time to focus. First I put my ear plugs in, then my color coded bathing cap,and finally my goggles. Tanya gave me a kiss and said "best of luck baby", I heard her,but didn't hear her. My mind was on that buoy; and making it out of that water alive! We had a deep water start so we had to wade out to just above waist deep. The lake bottom was mud and it felt terrible, it was at least 10 inched deep, every step felt disgusting.

The starter on a megaphone yelled get ready, set, GO!! I was off free style baby, I was in the mix of about 40-50 other swimmers. As quickly as it began, I began to have some trouble. I never felt so much panic, I felt claustrophobic, like my head was clogged. I tried to relax but my chest began to tighten up. I came up for a look and that buoy seemed to extend even farther and farther away. I laid over onto my back, and started to have doubts, I don't think I can make it! I laid there on my back for a few seconds and thought how disappointed I would be in myself if I turned around. I knew I was prepared, had trained appropriately, I paused, pulled out those ear plugs, and my head cleared. I turned back over and began to breast stroke, "just keep moving" I told myself my heart rate dropped and I was able to get back in rhythm. I had made it through that storm. 46 minutes later I was exiting the water, Tanya and Jeannette were cheering me on. Thank you "Lord" the biggest challenge of the day was over. Though I struggled in the beginning, my swim goal was an hour; 46 minutes, I was pleasantly surprised.

After exiting the lake we had to run uphill for about 50 yards to enter the Transition area, I had laid my red,yellow,and green Bob Marley towel out to make finding my area easy. When I got there Tanya was already standing along the fence giving me words of encouragement. I had laid things out to move through swiftly. First it was put on shirt, helmet, sunglasses. Then dried my feet, put on socks, cycling shoes, and got out of there. (T1) 5 mins and 43 secs way to slow!

Great! the cycling section started with a hill. No worries I had already set my gears to make hopping onto my bike effortless. I clicked my feet in; it was time to put the pedal to the medal. Other then a steady head wind from mile 7 to a turn around at mile 11 the bike section was uneventful. I really felt in my element, my legs were strong; being able to pass riders who exited the swim faster than I did felt good. I really enjoyed the desert landscape, the rolling hills made for a fun and fast ride. The outside temperature was really beginning to rise as I finished.

Finally run time, the last section of the ride was down hill to the transition area. It was cool to zoom into the area, and see all the athletes coming an going. I jumped off my bike and made it to my things. I was feeling great, running was my going to be my strength; I thought. I quickly hung my bike, took off my helmet, and shoes. I laced up my running shoes, grabbed a gel, guzzled some fluids and was out, (T2) 2 mins and 29 secs. Much better than T1 but still a bit slow. The run section just like the bike course started uphill. I felt ready as I took off, but as I started running my legs felt very heavy. I never felt this in my brick workouts, they usually felt rubbery, but not heavy. As much as I wanted to run, I had to power walk most of the hill, and for the first couple of miles the heavy feeling would not go away. To run it really took a lot mentally and physically. After making it to the turn around, the heaviness disappeared; I was then able to get into a rhythm and knock off the last miles. The mid morning sun really began to heat things up, it would reach 103 degrees by the time I finished. I was so happy to see Tanya, Ray and Jeannette as I ran downhill to the finish. My final time was 3 hours 32 mins 44 secs.

What an adventure, I had a challenging but fulfilling morning. Finally done, no more talk of becoming, because I am now a TRIATHLETE! Thank you dear for talking me out of attempting an Ironman on my first TRI! Heck I might still be trying to finish the 2.5 mile swim of an Ironman!

Ray has a great day finishing his race way ahead of the time he has given himself. His goal was 3 hours or less, and he finished in a blazing time of 2 hours 21 mins 50 secs! Kudos man!!

Up to Speed

2010-08-09T16:33:00.001-07:00

Though we have not posted in a long time our adventures have not stopped, let me get you up to speed on what we have been up to. After trekking across the Grand Canyon in May, we headed up to Central California to run "Shadow of the Giants" located just out side of Yosemite National park. The race is listed as a 50K but it turned out to be 34 miles instead of the 31 miles the 50K denotes. The extra miles didn't matter, it was an incredible day running in an incredible place with the woman I loved incredibly. Does that make sense?
Look our garden has been doing incredibly well! Hey that works! Love those purple bell peppers. Who loves turnips? I sure do, root vegetable are so incredibly rich in nutrients. Incredibly there it is again.
Then in July we climbed Mt. Whitney 14,495 ft. This was our fourth trip, and my second time to the summit, but I did not get away without elevation sickness.

As you can see on my face I was not feeling that great, but it got really ugly a short time from this picture on the decent. Let's just say "Vomit" 3x's and one hell of an 11 mile decent, without being able to drink or eat for most of it. Tanya had no trouble as always, must be girl power or something.
August has been a fun month of training, I am signed up for the Las Vegas Olympic distance triathlon on September 26th. The swim discipline has been the most challenging, but by the 26th I feel I will be ready. Tanya is still debating on whether to participate, or allow me to do this alone. What do you think, should she join me?
That get's you up to speed on what we have been up to, until my next post ~One Love

GRAND CANYON RUN 2010

2010-05-28T11:34:00.000-07:00

We had another incredible year running the Grand Canyon. Year after year it just gets better, I never grow tired of the natural beauty of the place, and the challenge, it takes will and determination. I have run across several times, it is never easy! Just you against the elements. Sometimes its cold, sometimes it hot; VERY HOT! It has been wet, and dry, but it has never been easy! As I write this I am already dreaming about running it next year! Enjoy the Video's.

*Scroll to the bottom of the page to Turn off the music.

Downhill is always fun!

Sorry for the sideways view!

It's wasn't fun fighting a chest cold.

It was Bambi!

The temperature was 100 and rising!

Absolutely incredible, I just love this place!

Feeling the Pain! No more running!

She maybe feeling great!, but I am beat and I am not doing all that! LOL!

I hope you had time to check them out, as I always say life is an adventure, so get out there and LIVE!

BROAD STREET RUN 2010

2010-05-05T14:51:00.000-07:00

PHILADELPHIA FREEDOM
SHINE ON ME
I LOVE YA
SHINE THE LIGHT
SHINE IT SO VERY BRIGHT

On a recent trip to visit family in Philadelphia/Yeadon, PA Tanya and I just had to find a race. What did we find, just the largest 10 miler in the USA. The "Broad Street Run" and this year the race sold out! 30,000 runners!! Can you believe 30,000 runners in a 10 miler! I was a little concerned about logistics, because it was an end to end race, but the directors had everything

under control. The morning of the race participants parked their cars for free at Lincoln Financial field. We then boarded the Broad Street Line subway for a free ride to the start.
This worked out perfectly, it was also fun riding the subway with so many runners.

Corrals separated runners according to expected finishing times, unlike other races the vast majority of people went to their assigned corral without issue. I hate it when walkers jump into the 8:00 min/mile pace corral and create traffic jams when the race starts. Each Corral also had a staggered start which reduced congestion and made for a smooth start.
Philadelphia is known for it's incredible murals all over the city. I had to get a picture of the champs. Can you name them?
The heat we experienced that day was unexpected, I grew up in the area and never remember it being so hot and humid so early in the year. 90 degrees in May is unheard of, I thought I was in Bermuda in August. Hot and sticky! In the distance is city hall, which is roughly the half way point. I actually had a rough beginning, but ended up finishing strong.

We made it to the Philadelphia Navy Yard, where the race ended, and I made it to the bathroom! Whew!

Our goal was to finish in 1:30:00, we finished just under that at 1:29:30.

No medals for finishing? We were a little disappointed. But running 10 miles with 30,00 other runners. There is no better way to spend a Sunday morning.

Keep fit my friends

Non-Weight Bearing Exercise

2010-04-28T13:17:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Tanya and I had the opportunity to go sailing with friends. It had been many years since either of us had been sailing, yearning for the deep blue sea we jumped at the chance.

She was named the "Evening Star" a sea worthy vessel. We set sail out of Newport Beach, CA. We loaded her up with plenty of munchies, I hear sailing makes you hungry :)

After Alex guided us out of the harbor, I was handed the Helm. As a south westerly wind pushed us towards Dana point, I couldn't stop thinking of the early explorer's. The fantastic, but treacherous journeys to far and distant lands, many to be sucked up by the sea and never see land again. Hey, does this thing have life jackets!

Ay' mates, it's the pirates life for me! See any whales yet! No but I did see a mermaid!

Oh' land ho, crew!

Tanya at the helm, intensely focusing as the wind picks up and our knots quicken. It was her job to bring us back home to the harbor safely.

Riding the "Evening Star" like a surf board. BABY!

We had a great day with wonderful friends. We look forward to sailing again soon, Catalina Island here we come.

One Love,

Still Snow in the Mountains

2010-04-21T13:56:00.000-07:00

Last week Tanya and I decided to take a hike. From the valley below where we live the front side view of mountains are bare of snow. Only a 30 minute drive landed us into a winter wonderland. There has been a lot of rain this year in the lowlands, which equates to snow in the highlands.

Ice house Canyon is a very scenic trail that begins around 5000 ft. The trail meanders uphill along a creek for 3.4 miles and ends at the Saddle. The Saddle is a trail junction from which you can follow other trails to Mtn Peaks such as the 3 T's (Timber,Telescope,Thunder), Ontario peak, and Cucumonga peak. A gateway into the mountains.

The higher we hiked the deeper the snow got and the colder the temperature dropped.

We made to the Saddle, but where are the signs leading to the other peaks?

Cucamonga Peak Trail sign!

Ontario Peak trail sign.

The signs stand at least 4 ft high, so even late into April, there is quite a deep snow pack.

Until next time.

Hike or run a trail, it will do the body good!

Sowing Seeds

2010-04-21T11:04:00.000-07:00

2010 will make the third year Tanya and I have grown most of our vegetables. Living in So Cal we have a long growing season. Depending on the vegetable the harvest can be year round. An example would be Kale and Collard Greens; they are rich leafy greens that do excellent in winter. We have had a lot success growing in the ground along our back wall, but the weeds at times become difficult to control; so this year we decided to add above ground planters. We had some yard space under a bedroom window that was perfect. I wasn't exactly sure how to build and how large to make the planters, so I searched the net for help. I came across dozens and dozens of backyard gardening sites, all full of helpful information and suggestions. Many were sophisticated and some simple, but all produced beautiful and healthy vegetables. I decided to go with three 4x4 foot planters, each constructed with 4x6 inch pieces of wood. The job was very easy and took me no time to finish. All I needed was wood, 3 1/2 inch wood screws and a drill.

First I cleared the space under the window of any weeds, and then leveled the dirt.
The first planter went together in a jiffy, the 3 1/2 inch wood screws pulled the wood together securely and tight.

I was done all thee in less than and hour, all exactly 4x4 with a little bit of walk space between each to tend to the crop and any weeds that may pop up.

I then put a layer of weed block and wood chips for added weed control, and also look.

I filled each with grow mulch and soil. The hard part is done! Now just "Sow the Seed" and allow the Sun and the seeds do their work.

Growing your own food is simple and fulfilling, not to mention the health benefits. If you want to improve your diet and save some money; backyard gardening is the way to grow, and the fruits and vegetables taste so much better than what you get at the grocery store.

There is no better way to fuel your body for those long miles than home grown food. I can't wait to share pictures of what our planters will produce this year.

Provoke, Encourage, Elevate.

One Love,

Marc and Tanya

Has Been a Good Month

2010-02-21T13:53:00.000-08:00

Thus far February has been a good month of training. Tanya and I have been getting in daily miles, and though I am still not 100%; with each week I feel better and better. The Race Bug has been nibbling at us though, this past week end was the Orange Curtain 50K and the Pasadena Marathon. We ran both of those races last year. I would have loved to have been out there, especially with them being so close to home, but I know my body is not ready for that distance yet. I have been dealing with Piriformis Syndrome, which is similar to sciatica in symptoms, so you can imagine the discomfort I feel at times. I have been working my miles up slowly, this morning was the longest I've run in months, 10 miles. I had no discomfort until mile 8, so then I slowed my pace and did some walk intervals. In May we are going to run the Broad Street run, and the Grand Canyon. I wish to miss neither, so when my body talks I listen. Running with pain is no fun.
I look forward to sharing with you our new adventures, I think 2010 is going to be full of them!
MJ

Getting Strong Again

2010-01-29T09:43:00.000-08:00

I am looking forward to tomorrow, instead of going for a long trail run, I'm going to go for a long mtn bike ride. Can't wait, I have been riding a lot more in the last couple of months. Great Cross-training.
MJ

It's Been Awhile

2010-01-27T12:54:00.000-08:00

Let nothing perturb you,nothing frighten you. All things pass. God does not change. Patience achieves everything.

~Mother Teresa

I can hardly believe it is already January 27th, 2010. It just blows my mind, time seems to be passing so quickly. There is so much I still want to do and achieve, but I often feel time is not on my side. 2009 kinda ended on a sour note, our last major race the Javalina Jundered ended early for both Tanya and I. As much as we prepared, things are still out of our control. The Sunday before the race Tanya can down with a light cold, which was accompanied with a heavy chronic cough. I don't think she has had a cold in years, but it would come the week before we attempted to run 100 miles. My trouble was of a different sort that started the Wednesday morning before the race. I was taking a morning shower, I slightly bent down to cross my right leg across my left knee to scrub my foot. I first felt a twitch in my right lower back and then Bam lock down , I couldn't move and the pain was intense. From that moment forward the slightest movement, or strain just took my breath away. To make a long story short we still drove out to Arizona and attempted the race anyway. We made it through the day, but as the night approached and the temperatures cooled, Tanya's cough reappeared and got worse and worse; and my low back locked down and my entire body stiffened. We made it to mile 60, and both decided it's better to live to fight another day. Tanya has completely recovered, by I have some lingering effects, which has caused me to drop my weekly miles considerably. With Chiropractic treatment, weight training and rest, I feel that the worse has passed.

We are presently running and riding base miles, but have no events penned in as of yet. I take that back we will be running across the Grand Canyon again with friends in May. That's always a blast.

We did spend a day exploring Joshua Tree National Park recently. The Park is not far from Palm Springs, CA. The rock formations there are incredible, almost like being on another planet. It's a cool and far out place.

What do you see? Let me know.

Rock climbing been there done that, not my cup of tea.

Time stops for no one, let's get outside, go somewhere, do something you have been dreaming about. Life is too short not too.

One Love

~Marc and Tanya

2009 LONG BEACH 1/2

2009-10-19T13:54:00.000-07:00

With only few more days to go before we run the Javalina Jundred I thought I would post an update on what we have been up to in the last few weeks.

A few weekends ago to take a mental break from the back to back long weekend runs; we ran the Long Beach 1/2 marathon. We arrived early before the sun rose to make sure we missed the pre-race chaos, which includes closed streets and jocking for parking. Long Beach has become one of our favorite local 1/2's to run, not only because the course is flat and fast, the the beach atmosphere and the crowds cheering the runners on is great.

This was the events 25th year so the organisers were expecting record numbers of participants and spectators.

Our goal was to run an easy pace and to just have a fun time.

We did, we also saw a number of running Friends which always makes the day great.

At the parking lot nice and early. Penny and Tanya eating breakfast and making a last check on gear.

After taking some time off from running Penny is back and ready. Let's go have some fun.

Still smiling coming around the final corner just before the finish line. You go Penny. Welcome back.

Wait, who is that? That's the dynamic due of Emily and Ivonne looking all fly! You say "1/2 marathon" and they say "when and where!"

We had a fun morning the weather was perfect, and I can't think of to many better ways to Spend a Sunday morning than running a few miles with friends.

Javalina Jundred 12 hour training run

2009-09-15T15:45:00.000-07:00

McDowell Mtn Park the location where the Javalina Jundred will be held on October 31, 2009.

Trying to relax at the campground Friday night, but it was still close to 100 degrees. What an uncomfortable night trying to get some rest.

Saturday morning brought clouds and plenty of lightning, then the skies opened. Much needed relief to the overnight HOT temperatures.

Did I say this was a night time 12 hour training run. Tanya and Jeannette resting before the 6PM start.

Here we go. The temperature was cooler than Friday but still a balmy 89 degrees. 120+ people showed up, what a great way to spend the night, running through the desert.

One lap down (15.4 miles) 3 hours 10 mins, good pace but much faster than I wanted to go.

Hey Mon!

Jeannette is the Coffee ready, we have a 6 hour drive back home!

See ya in October Javalina

THE BIG TREE FOREST

2009-08-27T17:35:00.000-07:00

The Sequoia National Park home of the Giant Sequoia tree's. Tanya and I had the opportunity to visit the park last weekend,we spent a few hours hiking the miles and miles of trails. Words can't express what it felt like to walk among these 2000+ year old giants.
I think the pictures will help explain my loss of words. Visit them if you can!

Get out there and explore this incredible world.

We climbed Half Dome

2009-08-25T15:16:00.000-07:00

Two weekends ago Tanya and I jumped into the "Ghost Ship", our van. Yes, I am one of those guys who names his vehicles. Lets see, there was Betsy, Goldie, Peaches, Sharky, and now Kota. But, anyway, ...Tanya and I drove up to central California to visit Yosemite National Park and climb "Half Dome".

I'm going to let the pictures talk for themselves, and even though they are incredible. Pictures can't truly give you the perspective of what this place is like. I must say the park was one of the most beautiful and amazing places my travels have taken me thus far. If you are an outdoor enthusiasts and have not visited Yosemite yet, put it on your list.

Tanya and I arrived at the trail head at 6:30am we wanted to get an early start, plus we read this trail is extremely busy later in the afternoon. We wanted to get ahead of that traffic. The hike to the top of Half Dome is approximately 17 miles round trip, at the trail head a sign read it takes on average 10-12 hours to complete. When I read that I said to myself " Not me, not today, I do not plan on being out here for 10+ hours".

The hike starts on a paved trail for the first mile or so. Then it turns to challenging stairs and single track trail for the rest of the way, until you reach the cables to climb to the top of the Half Dome.

The place where the trail begins, and many thru hikers of the John Muir trail(JMT) also start here. If you can see the bottom the sign, the distance to Mt Whitney Via the JMT is 211 miles. We have added that epic trek to our bucket list!
The first few miles as I mentioned are paved and relatively easy going. The terrain consists of rolling hills. This section is handicap accessible, so bring friends and family who may not be able to walk the trail. I say this because I think everyone should experience this place.

Then the stairs begin, for any Lord of the Rings fans. I felt like I was climbing the stairs into Mordor. Challenging, but the scenery takes away or should I say puts the effort in the back of your mind.
Another spectacular view, the outdoors are so beautiful. The stress of life and the pollution of the world just fades away. If more people would get out and experience and visit places like this their perspective of life might change. The little things we let control our life's would fade away.

The Yosemite valley, forged by glaciers 10,000 years ago. Pictures don't do it justice, you must see it yourself.

There it is, that's where we are going. To the top of Half Dome.

Yes, those little spots are people climbing the cables to the top. It was much much steeper and more challenging of a climb than I expected.

At the top, all smiles now! We weren't smiling a few moments ago half way up those cables. As you can imagine going back down the cables was very interesting, but we survived to write about it. We jammed back down the trail, and about that 10-12 hours. It took us 6 hours and 15 minutes for the round trip.

Get out there and live people, the world is waiting.

Marc and Tanya

Race Report: Mt Disappointment 50 miler '09

2009-08-17T15:08:00.000-07:00

Tanya striking a pose and looking all color coordinated, and cute.

Tanya caught me watering a tree. To run ultras you must be well hydrated!

Powering up, yet another hill.

13:06 not bad for 50 miles. Another great day with my best friend.

Me and Thomas recovering with a cup of hot soup!

Short report, but we had a whole lot of fun. Mt. Disappointment is a must do run for anyone who wants to challenge their fitness.

A taste of the fun you will have!
MJ

Garden Update: Aug' 09

2009-08-12T20:40:00.000-07:00

Even with daily temperatures exceeding 100 degrees, our garden continues to push out God's vegetable goodness.

MJ

3rd Time was the Charm

2009-07-28T21:23:00.000-07:00

Actually over a week ago.

Just made it back home from hiking Mt. Whitney yesterday(Sunday July 19), and my stomach is still not back to it's normal self. This was our third trip to Mt. Whitney over the years, and the 2 previous trips for me ended without reaching the summit of the highest peak in the lower 50 states. On our first attempt Tanya reached the summit without much trouble; it wouldn't be the same for me. When we reached the 12,000 ft. mark elevation sickness hit me like a sledge hammer. I tried to push through it, but the nausea, headache, and dizziness was just to much. I made it past what are called the windows, but turned around.

On our second trip, I made it past the windows and was pushing for the last mile or so to the summit. Tanya again was doing well, but a fast moving storm was coming from the west, we could hear thunder and lighting in the distance so we decided to turn back. Very dangerous place to be, especially with unstable weather. But its was for the best, I again was feeling terrible. The storm saved me, because I had a pounding headache, and nausea again. This time the headache lasted until we reached Lone Pine,Ca.

After our second trip I said to Tanya "Mt. Whitney is not going to see me again". I had had enough! An incredibly beautiful place, but the elevation was just to much for me. I am not going back!

Well, I had to eat those words. After being invited by Ray, Tanya and I went back. Here is my story. To hike the Whitney trail you have to enter a lottery to get passes. Our group date assigned was Sunday July 19th. On previous trips Tanya and I arrived at the Whitney portal the day before and hiked the next day. This time we decided to arrive Friday and camp at the portal for 2 nights hoping that would help me acclimatize to the elevation; being that the portal is at 8300 ft. It is about a 3.5 hour drive to the Whitney portal from our home. We arrived there late Friday afternoon and were greeted by Mark and Dave, two other guys in our group,who had already set up camp.

We went to our campsite to set up our tent where we met David, who was from Yuma, Az. He was a very interesting fellow, who had spent the winter in Alaska working with Iditarod race dogs. You can imagine our conversation, he seemed to intrigued by us; being that we have run races of 100 miles and beyond. Then which he told us how his work had studied the metabolism of these ultra endurance dogs of the Iditarod. These ultra dogs run and pull a sled 1000 miles in 10 days! Can you say "Ultra Marathoners"!! Crazy!! Very interesting stuff.

After chatting we crashed early, hoping the thin air would get me ready for Sunday. Our tent was near a stream, and we were put to sleep by the sounds water rushing over rocks. To be honest it sounded like we were at 30,000 feet flying in a jet. None the less I slept soundly, though I think Tanya kept an ear open for the bears that roam around the camp looking for any food that may not have been stored in the bear lockers.

We woke up early Saturday morning, and decided to go for a short hike to the portal store, and then a short distance up the Whitney trail. From the trail head you are allowed to hike 2.5 miles before a trail pass is required.

We returned to our campsite, and soon after Ray, Bobby, and Reynold arrived, the hiking party was complete. For the rest of the day we all relaxed and prepared our gear. As a group we decided to all leave together at 2:30am and separate as each one's pace dictated.

2:30am came quickly, everyone was awake and excited about heading to the summit. We weren't the only ones. When we made it to the trail head there was at least 15 other hikers leaving at the same time. Hiking the first few hours in darkness was going to be fun, and seeing the sun rise in such an incredible place was going to be priceless. When you live close to the city the lights drown out the stars of the night sky, but in this place the stars are so vivid and clear; millions upon million of them.

For the first hour or so we hung together as a group, and then we began to break into sub-groups. Ray and Bobby stayed together, Dave, Mark, and Reynold, and then Tanya and I. As the sun rose so did the temperatures. That would soon change as we reached trail crest when we had to put on extra layers. If you have been to Whitney you will know the hike is about patience and perseverance. There are switch backs after switch backs, the famous rock face above base camp has 99 of them. I just wanted to get to the summit, but Tanya kept me focused. She kept reminding me to slow my pace and control my breathing. When we made it to the top of the 99 switch backs (Trail Crest 13,700 ft) the Whitney trail intersects the John Muir Trail. I was so excited, but also knew this was the point when the elevation sickness had begun on my last two trips. So far so good, but I did have a slight headache that was beginning to worsen, and the last 2.8 miles to the top are not easy. Tanya led the way and I just focused on one step at a time, the thin air had slowed our pace considerably. The panoramic view is incredible, the glacier lakes, Sequoia National park in the distance, just spectacular. We kept trudging, with about a mile to go the Hut at the summit came into view, this was also the point I had turned around on previous trips. "Keep moving Marc", Tanya, said" try not to focus on your discomforts, use your "Chi" (good energy). I listened to her and kept moving, finally the top/hut was in sight; thank you LORD. I was so happy, Tanya was so happy for me, but I was not feeling to good. Tanya took a few pictures of me, then I said "I'm out of here". It was a tough 11 miles back, and my stomach was starting to feel queasy, my head was beginning to feel light and painful; this was no time to hang out. So, I not spending much time at the summit, I slowly headed down the mountain.

I was about a 1/4 mile from the top when I ran into Mark, Dave, and Reynold. They had made it also, but I could tell the mountain had taken it's toll. We said a few words of encouragement to each other, but I was on a mission to get off this mountain top.

Tanya caught up to me and we headed toward the windows. We approached a fast moving cloud passing over. In the distance we heard thunder saw lightning. We picked up the pace but to no avail, my legs were weak and wobbly. The elevation had robbed me of an appetite for food and water. Though I knew I needed fuel, my stomach and my mind wouldn't let me eat. This would last for the entire trip back to the portal, the only thing that saved me was Tanya gave me a hard candy to suck on which helped a little.

After 13 hours and 45 minutes, we made it back to the portal. The trip back down the mountain felt like a never ending, miserable journey. But I must say the victory of making it to the top after 2 failed attempts was sweet. I am not in a hurry to return to Mt. Whitney I must say!

"Been there done that!" Ray and Bobby decided to trun back a base camp.
View slide show here

Marc and Tanya

Mt. Whitney Hike: 3rd Time is the Charm

2009-07-23T17:20:00.000-07:00

My Report is almost finished, but if you would like to check out some pics go to:
Our WebShot page

Marc

Am I still and Ultrarunner?

2009-07-10T11:09:00.001-07:00

On the fourth of July Tanya and I ran a 5K. Tanya took it easy, but I pushed the envelop and PR'd. But I am and ultra marathoner, what am I doing running in 5K's. Running hard for a few miles hurts so much more than running easy over a lot of miles. But never the less I enjoy running and love the atmosphere on race days.

I have heard that runners as they age get slower, I must be breaking that trend. This year I have PR'd in the following race distances:

50K: 5:16:55 Orange Curtain

Marathon: 3:56:41 P.F. Chang

1/2 Marathon: 1:39:12 Fontana Days

5K: 23:07 Claremont Days

Why do I write this? It's for those people who think they are past their prime, get up off the sofa and get out there and do something. You never know what you may be able to accomplish.

Summer Garden Update

2009-07-06T20:27:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted about our garden lately, but I thought for those who may be interested I would give an update. Though I don't have any pictures, our camera was on the blink for a few months. Incredibly it just started working last week after Tanya dropped it purposely. Anyway, our winter crop did great and tasted delicious! We grew collard greens and kale, carrots, beets (love the beets), and cabbage. We actually still have kale growing and about 3-4 heads of cabbage still growing.

Now to this years summer garden of which I do have a few pictures.

I thought this was a great shot of morning dew on a squash leaf.

Look at the Roma tomatoes, last year we had cherry tomato's this year Roma and Big Beefy.

Our Avocado tree, which are the branches on the left, is doing incredibly well. It's less than 2 yrs old.

Tending to the yellow zucchini squash, and Brussel sprouts that are growing in the distance. We are also growing cucumbers and butternut squash. I can't wait until they begin to harvest to share and to enjoy. Nothing tastes better then the natural fruits and vegetable's God has provided for us.

BEAR SIGHTING

2009-07-01T06:16:00.000-07:00

After a training run on Mt. Baldy Sunday, as we were driving home Tanya caught a glimpse of this guy in a yard off the side of the road. I turned around and we got some shots of him. He was sneaking around looking for some easy food to munch on most likely. He stood still while we took these pictures then ran behind a shed. It was so cool, this was the first bear sighting we have had in all our years running in these local mountains.

On Friday, during another training run in Claremont Tanya and I can across a large rattlesnake in the middle of the trail with a ground squirrel in his mouth. The wild like you see on the trails. I LOVE IT>>>I wish I had my camera then.

You will not be Forgotten

2009-06-25T17:40:00.000-07:00

You touched so many hearts for so many years, I can't believe you are gone.
The BEST entertainer EVER!!
Rest in Peace, Michael.

Running: It a Family Affair

2009-06-10T18:18:00.001-07:00

The month of May was incredible, Tanya and I where home in Bermuda for a fun filled time with family, friends, and of course running. Take a look at that picture above, that crystal blue water and pink beach's are what you wake up to everyday in Bermuda. Doesn't it make you want to jump in? May is a fun filled month with walking and running events just about every weekend which leads up to one of the islands biggest Holidays/Event "The Bermuda Days Half Marathon".

The first event we participated in was the Catlin End-to-End walk. The event starts in the Historic town of St. George's and travels by road and railway trails to the Royal Dockyard which is at the other end of the Island. It is approximately 24 miles, just under a marathon. For those individuals who my not be able to complete the entire island, the event has an option of middle-to-end were participants will begin at the half way point in the City of Hamilton. Tanya and I of course wanted to run. When we found out there was going to be a number of others also running... Well the rest is history. It was a big family affair Tanya's sister's Sherry, Zina, and Paula did the middle to end walk. So did Brother-in-laws Bails and Danny, Uncle Kingsley, cousins Llyod, Wanda, and Chelito. Riding the course was niece Mahtorie, cousin Tracy, Bird and friend Rochelle.
Next Tanya and I ran in the "Sir Stanley Burgess 5K" ( pictured above). Mr. Burgess is a Bermuda running Legend, winning the Bermuda Days race and incredible 10x's in his 60 year running career. (hit that link above to read about him). The 5K race had a very competitive crowd, with many of the Marathon Day front runners participating. 5K's are not the distance we usually participate in, so I knew it was going to be fast and heart pumping. The morning was warm and a little humid but Tanya and I both had good runs. Tanya ran a 23:02 and I ran a 23:14. I believe that was a PR for me at that distance. Yes it was heart pumping.

May 24th Bermuda Day (celebrated on the 25th this year) came and what a big event for the island. This was a special year commemorating 400 years since Bermuda was discovered and the 100th year of running the Bermuda Days Run. Record numbers signed up for the run, no body wanted to miss the 100th year, and also record numbers camped along the course to cheer the runners on. As I have said before, I have run many races over the years some very big and some very small, but none have matched the crowd participation and love that the people of Bermuda give on that day. From start to finish people are lining the course yelling and screaming helping and encouraging you. When the race is over the day has just really begun, then comes the parade of parades. Along the final miles of the running course the parade follows and people picnic along the route until sundown.

The Race starts in Somerset and travels East along middle road to Hamilton, and again it was a family affair. I didn't have pictures of everyone but below are some.

Uncle Kingsley at 72 years young, making it look easy.

Cousin Sabrina keeping as cool as possible with her sponge in hand. That's what you have to do on those hots days.

Sister Sherry looking pretty in pink, and representing the Baily crew, BIG UPS! YEA!!!

Hey Rochie Girl, looking good and cruising to another Bermuda Day finish.

That's my hero, Tanya. Always making it look easy. I love the skirt!

That's me, sweating like a hog. Can somebody say HUMIDITY!!

The Young Buck Coolie, he is running so cool I don't even think he is sweating.

Not pictured from the family was Patrice and Tracy who also braved the sun and hot and humid temperatures to run. I know they would all agree what a wonderful day we had running and experienceing the best of what Bermuda has to offer. Much love to everyone, and keep those feet moving.

Bermuda Day Parade

2009-06-10T18:18:00.000-07:00

A taste of the Bermuda Day Parade. I videoed these in 2008 but they give you a taste of the colors and the beauty of the people and the island.

Gombeys performing

St George Dancers

Fontana Days Run

2009-06-09T15:24:00.000-07:00

Tanya and I are back safe and well tanned from our trip to Bermuda. I will post more later about our trip and our running adventures there but I wanted to first share our experience Saturday running the Fontana Days 1/2 Marathon. It is dubbed "The World's Fastest Half Marathon Course. This was our 3rd time running the race, but it has been a few years. It is a local race, and always fun; but had been on the same weekend as the San Diego R&R marathon. I think that is why we hadn't run it in a while. The course in 13.1 miles downhill, so I assume that is why it is "The Worlds Fastest". The morning of the race you have to board school buses and they drive you to the start. Then it is almost a straight line back to the finish at City Hall.
Our goal was as usual to have fun, but it would be great it we could break that 1 hour 40 min barrier. They drove us up into the hills above the town and dropped us off at a camp ground. The buses leave early, so after being dropped off we had over an hour before the start to wander around and try to stay warm. It was a cool and overcast morning; perfect for running fast!
The race started a few minutes late, but that was alright. Tanya and I started off together and our goal was to run the first mile conservatively at about an 8:30 pace. Because of the downhill it is easy to get sucked into a much faster pace, which happened to many of the runners. From the start I knew today was going to be a good day, we both looked and felt strong and had a steady even stride. After that first mile we gradually picked up the pace, I stopped glancing at my Gamin, I didn't want to scare myself into slowing down. We were knocking the miles off, just past mile 7 I began to fall off Tanya's pace a bit. She was looking and feeling good. I tried to hang on but couldn't. Though I couldn't hold her pace I felt if I did some fartleks I would be able to maintain a good pace and also get a bit of muscle recovery while doing so. It worked.
Tanya ended up finishing in 1:37:51 at a 7:29 pace (PR) and I finished in 1:39:12 at a 7:35 pace (PR).
The race lived up to it's name; at least for us and we finally broke 1:40:00.
MJ

Pasadena Marathon Report 09

2009-03-28T15:14:00.000-07:00

The Pasadena Marathon was rescheduled from it's original race date in November 2008 to last Sunday March 22, 2009. To be honest I wasn't all that excited about running this race, lets say I had a sour taste in my mouth about the race organisers not rolling over the entrants from the canceled race to the rescheduled date. They had a lame excuse about forgetting to purchase cancellation insurance, and that the previous entrants to run the race needed to re-register at the price of $50.oo. Remember we had already paid $90.00 originally. NO MARATHON is worth $140 big ones!!!

Nonetheless Tanya and I showed up. We had stopped by to see Pamela the night before at the Expo where she was displaying her AWESOME running art. It was great seeing her again and spending a few moments talking. Good peeps!

We decided to run the race with our client and friend Rose.
The rain came down in buckets for the first hour or so, I think we three really enjoyed that part. We don't get much rain here in So Cal, so instead of complaining like so many others who live here we embraced God's gift and danced in the puddles.
Over all I had a fun and relaxing run, the course was OK nothing spectacular. But running with my wife and friends it doesn't get much better.

MJ

Bonelli Park Fat Ass 50K Report

2009-03-28T14:48:00.000-07:00

The first Bonelli Park Fat Ass 50K (or Less) went on without a hitch. There was a total of six of us to take on the challenge. They where Marty, Bruce, Jeannette, Tim, Tanya and Me. Tanya and I had run and marked the course late in the afternoon the night before so we decided from the beginning we where only going to run 2 of the 11 mile loops. We were confident the others would step up to the challenge and run all 3 loops. But as the morning progressed; I'm not sure if it was maybe the difficulty of the course, or that fact that after each loop you returned to your car to refuel (which made it easy to stop), but everyone decided to call it a early day and no one completed the entire 33 miles. I still see potential in the course and maybe we can do it again next year and everyone will complete the course. Nonetheless we had a terrific day out there, running just brings so much JOY!! Stay fit, Stay strong, and LOVE LIFE. Life is great you know.

MJ

Orange Curtain Race Report

2009-02-24T06:45:00.000-08:00

Tanya and I arrived in Cerritos early and the morning temperature was perfect for running. The Orange Curtain is run along the San Gabriel River Trail, the course is a 10K loop that will be repeated 5 times or 10 times depending on which race you are running. As I mentioned in previous posts my goal was to go under 5 hours, my strategy for the day was to break the run down into 5 short races. Meaning I wanted to focus on each 10K section one at a time and run each as close to an hour as possible. I hoped this strategy would keep me from thinking about the monotony of running the same road back and forth over and over again. It worked because the miles and the morning passed by very quickly.

10K: 1:00:00 perfect right on pace!
20K: 1:57:12 feeling good body is loosening up, the sun is breaking through the clouds.
30K: 2:58:23 best lap of the day feeling Strong, feeling good about next two laps.
40K: 4:01:42 how quickly things change, feeling fatigued stomach a little upset but sub 5 still in reach.
50K: 5:16:55 Damn! couldn't hold the pace and an unscheduled bathroom break(#2) didn't help. But no excuses. Knocked almost 30 Min's off of previous 50K PR so I am still Pumped!

Tanya ended up calling it a day at the 50K, she was entered in the 100K race. She still had a terrific finishing time of 5:28:41, and was conserving to go 50K more.
Overall we had a great time, it was great seeing and running with so many friends. I rate races on their Aid stations and Jay(RD) his wife, and the volunteers had their stuff together. Look how

clean and neat this aid station is. That says a lot, and I took this picture after I had finished running, it was clean and well supplied like this all day! Maybe this is why I like running ultras the food!; marathons only give you water or a sports drink.

Get out there and run!!

2009 Orange Curtain 50K PR!

2009-02-23T11:18:00.001-08:00

I did not break 5 hours which was my ultimate goal, but I did set a 50K PR. I will post a report with more details soon!.

Love/Hate Relationship with Running

2009-02-19T05:54:00.000-08:00

Saturday Tanya and I run the Orange Curtain 50/100K. I hate the week before races! I always get anxious and can't wait to get out there to run. Then when while running the race I often have thoughts of what the heck am I doing out here. You could be somewhere relaxing, and not putting your body through this. But when the race is over, and the freedom of running, the cool breeze through my hair, and thoughts of bliss are gone. That's when I wish I still had a few more miles to go. Crazy eh! No matter how beat up I feel afterwards, I always feel comfort in the accomplishment.
Wish us luck Tanya is running the 100K and I am running the 50K. If everything goes well I'm am hoping to go under 5 hours. That would be a big time PR for me at the 50K distance.
MJ

2009-02-09T17:25:00.000-08:00

“I built a castle in the swamp and it sunk. I built a second castle and it sunk too. I built a third castle and it burned down and then sunk. But the fourth castle, Ahhhh! That one stood.”

—Monty Python and the Holy Grail

NEVER GIVE UP!

First Ultra of the Year

2009-02-09T15:37:00.000-08:00

Well it is only 12 days to go until our first Ultra of 2009. The race is the Orange Curtain 50K and 100K. Tanya and I have never run this race before, though it is part of the So. Cal Ultra series. The course is a 10K out and back asphalt section on the San Gabriel River Trail; unlike the single track mountain trails we love. I think this race may be a mental challenge for both of us in that respect. It should build some mental fortitude. Tanya is going to run the 100K distance, and I'm going to run the 50K distance (Wimp right).
MJ

Bonelli Park Fat Ass 50K

2009-02-05T06:20:00.000-08:00

Sunday March 8th will be the first running of the Bonelli Park Fat Ass 50K (plus or minus). Bonelli Park is located in San Dimas, Ca, the park is 1,975 acres surrounding a 250 acre lake; but best of all it has miles and miles of trails. Tanya and I train there all the time, we have an 11.5 mile loop that would make for a great Fat Ass Run.

You say what is a Fat Ass Run? I say it is a fun run on a course with friends that costs no money. You run at your own risk, you bring your own supplies, and have a heck of a good time. No T-shirts, No Medals, just you, friends and the trails!
Don't stress the 50K distance if you haven't run that far in the past. The course is a loop so you can run 1 loop, 2 loops,or go for the gusto and run all 3!

Take a peek at some of the great single track trails you get at Bonelli Park!

Be there:
March 8th, 2009 6:15am
For more details (directions,parking, etc) email me at DrMJFIT@aol.com

P.F.Chang R&R Report

2009-01-21T06:32:00.000-08:00

It took me a while to finish writing but here it is :)

I had high expectations going into this marathon even with patchy training in December. Tanya and I drove to the Phoenix area Friday and spent a relaxing night under the stars in the McDowell Mountain regional park. This is the location that the Javalina Jundred is run. Living in southern California, you forget how many stars light the night ski. But in this park away from major civilization the night ski was ablaze with millions of bright stars. It was incredibly quiet also, other than an occasional coyote howl we were able to sleep through the night in total peace.

We were awaken by the weekend warrior mountain bikers just after dawn. They came in droves to enjoy the miles and miles of trails this park has to offer. We took our time cleaning up and getting out of bed. We later had breakfast(bowl of soy milk & bran cereal w/ nuts and raisins) and then went for a short hike to loosen up the legs. It was quite chilly. Great tempature for a marathon, I thought. The cooler the better.

Once leaving the Park , we drove to the Expo which was located at the Convention Center in downtown Phoenix. We picked up our bib and Goodie bag. The draw for this run is actually the 1/2 marathon which drew over 25,000 participants; the marathon drew just over 95oo. We then took a leisurely walk through the expo admiring the new running gear and the many gadgets that I guess help you run better.

Tempe, was our next stop to check in at our hotel the 4 Points Sheraton Hotel. We chose this hotel because it was in walking distance from the finish line which was at the ASU football stadium parking lot. We also learned that the morning shuttle pick-up spot was only a block away. Everything was looking good for us especially with the hotels location.

Time for lunch. Tanya usually prepares our meals and we carry them in a large cooler. but we decided to be adventurous this trip. Prior travelling we did a Google search for a vegan place to eat and found one in Tempe called Green. We give them 5 stars, just what we needed two very tasty and healthy pasta dishes. The food was fresh and delicious. The staff were efficient and friendly. We don't eat out often, but we would eat there again definitely.

So, back to the hotel we went to get some rest. The Hotel was very modern and contemporary. Very nice downstairs lounge and bar with a very big TV. The Eagles/Cardinals game would be on after the marathon, and I am a big Eagles fan. Our room was large, over looking the pool; it was also very clean and contemporary. We thought this is nice, lets just relax look at a little TV and get ready for Sunday. The shuttles began leaving at 4:30am so we wanted to go to bed early for the 4:00am wake up call. When we finally decided to go to bed that is when the fiasco began. I believe the hotel walls were made of paper. The ice machine down the hall rumbled like thunder every hour, people having a conversation walking down the hall sounded if they where in the room with us. The cars and Trucks driving by the hotel echoed like a New York subway. An when it couldn't get any nosier, the person in the room next to us snored like a grizzly bear and left his TV on all night! As you can imagine we did not get much sleep, if any. I won't recommending this hotel.

The morning did not come quickly, 4am is here time to get dressed. We walk out of the hotel and make our way to the shuttles. I was a funny site as people came from all directions and side streets. The marathon zombies making there way through the morning darkness to board the bus. The ride to the start was about 40 minutes, we arrived at the start area just after 5:30am; the marathon was schedule to begin at 7:40am. We were ahead of the major crowds, so the porta potties did not have lines and still were clean. The start area had quite a spread, coffee, bars, water, drinks, and of course good music blaring. "Let's get it on" by Marvin Gaye filled the air and people stopped in their tracks to give their groove on.

The temperature was pleasant, actually not as cold as I had hoped, but let me speak for myself. Tanya said she was freezing and her toes had gone numb. We walked around locating our corral and the UPS trucks that would transport our clothes to the finish.

7:15am time to warm-up, parallel to the corrals we were able to do some easy strider's to get the blood flowing and loosen the legs and arms up. I have become so dependant on my Garim 305, I have begun to think it is actually hindering my race day performances. So Tanya and I both decided not to wear them today, and run completely on we felt, not on pace alone.

We started together in corral 3# which was for sub 4 to 3 hour pace. The gun went off right at 7:40 am and we took off together. As we passed the first mile marker a bank clock displayed 48 degrees, perfect! I was a beautiful morning, and it felt great to be running. We worked our way into quick but conservative pace. It is easy to get pulled early in a race; being mindful of that we consciously held ourselves back a little. It is always easy to start strong, but it is not easy to always finish strong.

Tanya and I split after I made a quick pit stop on the side of the road. So it was up to me alone to pull off this sub 4 marathon today. The miles seemed to be passing by fast, the water stations where about every mile so I still used them as walk breaks. I would run to the last station in the line then grab a few cup and walk while drinking. This helped me from choking and also gave my legs a quick break. The course was thus far FLAT, no hills to climb up or tocruise down. I reached the 10K in 53:41; I did have my Timex on.

I fell into a faster but comfortable pace with a group of ladies, they looked strong and where feeding off of each other. I fell in behind them and allowed them to carry me. I love it when your body just goes, you don't have to think, the rhythm just does its thing. The next thing I know I am coming up on the 1/2 at 1:52:56 right on pace. I think I walked and downed a gel. The temperature was rising, I could tell as I needed to pour water over my head more often at the water stations.

I wish I could share more about the course, but other than the bands it was not scenic. We ran through neighborhoods of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe. I continued to run on feel, pushing the pace and then backing off if I felt my breathing and heart rate shoot up. I also kept pace with other runners, allowing them to pull me if I felt they had a pace that was a little quicker than I.

I reached the 20th mile in 2:56:00 walked again and took a gel, I had one gel left which I would take at mile 23. Only 6.2 miles to go, time to dig deep. If I'm going to go under 4 hours this is it. My inner thighs are beginning to ache and my quads are feeling heavy and full of blood, not good; but I still felt strong. I just started saying to myself over and over, "don't fight it, embrace it". I shortened my stride and quickened my pace. By mile 23 the pain was gone and the quads where numb but moving ahead like pistons.

We had to cross this bridge at mile 24, it was the first hill in the race that I remember. From the bridge I could see the finish line in the ASU stadium parking lot. I glanced at my watch, I was going to go under 4 hours. I sucked it up, and let my body flow; there wasn't much flowing at this point though! I rounded the corner into the stadium parking lot; the crowd was screaming. I crossed the finish WHEW! With a time of 3:56:41 a new PR!

Tanya finished ahead of me in 3:51:39 not a PR for her but another solid run!.

MJ

INAUGRATION DAY 2009

2009-01-20T06:09:00.000-08:00

"An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity."- Martin Luther King, Jr.

Today the United States of America grows up! I thank God that I am alive at this time, this WONDERFUL HISTORIC TIME in American history. I look forward to being apart of the change that America and the World needs. We all can give something to make this planet a better place. GOD bless and have a wonderful day.

I'll post about running the P.F. Chang Rock and Roll Marathon later (smile).
MJ

Ultra Runners of the Year

2009-01-19T09:18:00.000-08:00

Jorge Pacheco (click for article) was named 2008 Male Ultra Runner of the year., and Kami Semick was named the Female Ultra Runner of the Year.

Congratulations!!
MJ

The First Race of 09

2009-01-13T05:40:00.000-08:00

This Saturday Tanya and I will be heading to Phoenix to run the PF Chang's Rock and Roll Marathon on Sunday; and I am pretty pumped about it. My training has not been going as well as I would have liked, and I had a head and chest cold over the Christmas holiday; but I still feel good about pushing myself this Sunday. I had my heart set on going under 4 hours, and I am going to push the envelope and see if I can still meet that goal. I have gone under 4 hours only one time previously at the St. George marathon. My understanding is the course in AZ is flat and fast. Not sure if the flat part works in my favor or not? Flat usually mean a whole lot more effort (running), if you know what I mean? Going under that 4 hour mark will be about everything working right, and running a smart race. I have been close so many times, last year a week after running the RR100 I ran the Lost Dutchman Marathon 4:07:07. Even without the best training in the last few weeks, I know my legs have the experience and miles on them to handle the pounding. I usually don't make predictions, but the Eagles are going to the Superbowl and I am going to run a sub 4 marathon!

The Greatest Distance Runnner

2009-01-08T08:30:00.000-08:00

We Are Back!

2009-01-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!
After 2 weeks vacation with family, I feel like I need a vacation from a vacation!
I have a lot to catch up on in the blog world, I see my friends have been busy. I will enjoy reading stories and catching up. 2009 will bring new challenges and adventures to us all, I am looking forward to diving right in and having a blast.
My only resolution is to live life to the fullest, and try to embrace every moment. We learn most during the challenges!
God bless and Happy New Year!
Marc

2008 Venice Christmas Run Slideshow

2008-12-18T07:20:00.000-08:00

Venice Beach XMAS Run

Xmas Run

2008-12-15T17:23:00.001-08:00

Tanya and I has a great run Saturday at the Venice beach Xmas run. We both PR'ed at the 10K distance.
Tanya ran a 47:10 at 7:37 pace and placed 5th in her age, I ran a 47:56 at 7:44 pace and placed 37th in my age group. I will write a report and post photos later.

Ultras a easier than 10K's, you have to run to fast in 10K's.

MJ

Christmas Run: Venice Beach

2008-12-12T08:50:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow morning Tanya and I will be heading to Venice Beach to run the Christmas run 10K. It should be a fun event, we have run this event a few times in the past, and it draws a large crowd. Because of the location, the speedsters come out from UCLA, USC, and the Santa Monica Track Club. They are out of my league, but I plan on putting forward a good effort tomorrow. My goal is to run under 50 minutes. I think my 10K PR is 54 mins.
MJ

High Desert Ultra: Report and Videos

2008-12-09T06:45:00.000-08:00

Tanya and I decided to get up early and drive to Ridgecrest the day of the race. That meant leaving home at 4:30am, the drive is 2 hours and the race start time was 7:00am. The drive was nice, and we made it there without incident at 6:30am. I ran into race headquarters and picked up our bibs and goodie bags. The weather was very cool, so we had to decide how many layers to wear, but we didn't want to over dress. There is nothing worse than carrying to much stuff; but it is also no fun when you are under dressed and it is freezing!

Just before the start we saw so many friends, this race brings everyone out. Depending on how you look at it, this is a great race to either end your race season, or mark the beginning. Tanya and I decided to really start out easy, our goal was to average 5 miles each hour, then try to run a negative split on the second half of the race. Breaking six hours was the ultimate goal for today.

Tanya and Dorsh

The miles where just rolling by, it was such and incredible day. The desert is such a beautiful place, you can see for miles and miles. The mountains in the distance are the beginning of the High Sierra's. The weather was cool the skies were over cast, just perfect for trail running.

It just doesn't get much better than this, some people run for speed, some for competition, some for enjoyment. At times I run for all of those things, but this day I was running for enjoyment. No pressure, just me, Tanya, trails shoes and this beautiful desert.

20 miles down and 10+ to go. The Temps began dropping at this point, and rain was threatening. Nothing worse than being cold and wet (Ugh). Luckily we made it to the finish before the skies opened up!

One of the rare occasions I finish before Tanya, I just had a little more in those last five miles. We both finished under the 6 hour mark so we are pleased with that. The High Desert Ultra is a great race when stepping up to the Ultra distance; no mountains to climb, and the people are great!
Finishing times: 5:45 (Marc) 5:50 (Tanya)2009 here we come!
MJ

Vegan Thanksgiving and plenty of Running

2008-12-01T09:29:00.000-08:00

Tanya and I had considered running a local Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning, but decided to pass and go on our own trot. We did an up tempo 5 miles on local trails. Where we ran can be a very busy place, but I was pleasantly surprised we had the trail almost to ourselves. Being thanksgiving morning I found that a bit odd, I thought it would be packed with people trying to burn extra calories for all the over eating that would be happening later that afternoon. I have to say that thought was on my mind; I knew I was going to most likely over eat.

Eat well we did ! Our Vegan Thanksgiving dishes were a hit! I just wish I had taken pictures to share with you all. We made a Mushroom and Collard Green Lasagna, the large dish was wiped completely clean and the guests were looking for more. This was our the first time making this dish, we anticipated it being good, but it turned out great.

And for dessert a Double Layer Vegan Pumpkin Cheesecake I borrowed the recipe and the picture below from fatfreevegan.com and I loved it. In my family we traditionally make sweet potato pies for the holidays, but I was pleasantly surprised on how this pie turned out and it also disappeared very quickly. I guess I could substitute the pumpkin with Sweet potatoes (yams).

And what goes great with pie? Ice Cream, we tried Coconut Bliss for the first time. It was "Off the Hook"! Coconut Bliss is a vegan ice cream made from organic coconut milk, and it was worth the high price tag! Good Stuff!

On Friday Tanya and I woke up early and hit the trails again, and what a beautiful morning it was. The skies were clear and there was a cool crispiness in the air. Prefect to put in a few miles. We decided to power walk 10 miles and just enjoy the morning. Often in ultra events because of a long steep climb, or you are just broken down you have to walk. There is no better way to train for those times than to get out and focus on walking.

On Saturday we met and ran with fellow blogger/runner Pamela. Pamela was in town from Jacksonville Fl, so we decided to meet at the Santa Monica stairs, and then share a few miles together. I can speak for Tanya and I both, Pamela was a breath of fresh air, we connected immediately. She was down to earth and easy to talk to. After walking the stairs 5 times we headed down the beach and ended up doing an easy 6. We talked and talked the entire way. Pamela is running the Jacksonville Marathon in a few weeks, she is going to do great!

Sunday it was back to the trails. We ran 10 easy miles. I must say I am feeling pretty good. The aches I had been experiences are fading. I was curious to see how my body respond from the back to back days, but I felt great. We plan on having a easy week of training to be ready to run the High desert ultra next Sunday.

We hope everyone had an enjoyable Thanksgiving weekend; we sure did and meeting Pamela was the best part!

Happy Trails,

Marc and Tanya

Sol Cal Wildfires

2008-11-17T09:51:00.000-08:00

Sunday morning Tanya and I woke up at 4:00am prepared to run the Pasadena marathon. While eating a bowl of oatmeal, and watching the 24/7 coverage of the wildfires a flash bulletin came across the screen "The Pasadena Marathon has been canceled due to poor air quality because of wildfires". We had a hunch this was going to happen, but it was for the best. The marathon can be rescheduled, but the health risks associated with the ash and particulates in the air could have been extremely detrimental to the thousands of runners.

Here are a few actual pictures of the wildfires in Chino hills.
Saturday morning Tanya and I were heading to the Orange County Airport, and this is what we ran into on the 91 fwy.

The inferno is ahead
Just above the Green River golf course
About to Drive into the Smoke storm
Jammed Traffic we made it past the fire and to the airport just before

the freeway was closed in both directions.

Power of One

2008-11-13T07:16:00.000-08:00

When you think you can't, actually you can!!
What an amazing story of inner strength, an example we all can follow.
"Wake up and Live" B. Marley

Love and Peace

Running Inspiration

2008-11-12T06:35:00.000-08:00

Today I saw a video on David Goggins Short Film . The video is of his win at the McNaughton 150 mile trail Ultra! This brother is all business and a running inspiration. The next time I'm hurting in a race or thinking of DNFing I'm going to remember something he said in this video "Open the next door".

http://www.sethigherstandards.com/david-goggins-the-long-run/

Enjoy!

Increasing the Miles

2008-11-11T08:17:00.000-08:00

We had another great weekend of running, the weather was incredible; nice and crispy. The winds blew all of the smog away and you could see the mountains for miles and miles. Absolute Paradise. I can only speak for myself, because Tanya always seems to be feeling great; but I feel I am coming out of a mental and physical fog. We are ramping up the miles again and committing to races. I guess if we are serious about going back to RR100 in February we had better get the quantity of miles up. With that said we have committed to 3 upcoming races. This Sunday we will be running the inaugural Pasadena Marathon. In December we will be heading back to Ridgecrest, Ca to run the friendliest Ultra in America the High Desert Ultra. The High Desert Ultra was my first and and one of my favorites. Then in January we are heading to Arizona to run the PF Chang's Rock and Roll Marathon .

Much love and may all your days be blessed!

American History

2008-11-05T16:00:00.000-08:00

Its been a long time coming, but change has come.

Vegan Pizza: Home Made

2008-10-24T06:23:00.000-07:00

VEGAN PIZZA

Pizza is a great pre and post run food; but be warned all of that cheese is can be fattening. If you love pizza like I do, you will eventually get the urge to make your own in a healthier form.

What you see is my first home made vegan pizza, even the crust!! The cheese is a non-dairy cheese substitute (soy based). It was much easier to create than I anticipated, and man it tasted good!

The toppings are red onions, black olives, cherry tomatoes, and get this collard greens!! Now that topping makes it a SOUL Pizza (Ha Ha).

Race Report: Long Beach Half Marathon

2008-10-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

Runners skirt Shoreline Aquatic Park with Rainbow Harbor alongside them in the coastal portion of the 24th Long Beach International City Bank Marathon on Sunday. About 18,000 participated in six events. (Steven Georges / Staff Photographer)

After having heat wave earlier in the week, the weather cooperated for Sundays Long Beach Marathon. The weather was absolutely beautiful, not a cloud in the sky and temperatures that just barely reached 70 degrees.

My goal time was a sub 1:50:00, last year at Long Beach I ran a 1:59:42.

mile 1: 10:05 to slow

mile 2: 8:59

mile 3: 8:50

mile 4: 8:32

mile 5: 8:23

mile 6: 8:41 pee break :)

mile 7: 8:25

mile 8: 8:25

mile 9: 8:00

mile 10: 7:59

mile 11: 8:10 fell off :( pace

mile 12: 8:10 fell off :( pace

mile 13: 7:47

mile .2: 7:02

finishing time: 1:52:14 pace: 8:34 average

As you can see I did not reach my goal time, but I feel I ran a smart race. I was able to drop my pace in each successive mile other than mile 6. Then at crunch time (*mile 11-12) I couldn't stay under 8 min pace which was where I needed to be. But going back to mile 1 that was the difference maker. I used mile one as my warm up, I usually warm up with a few striders for about 10-15 mins before the race, but the Porto potty line was very long :).

Tanya pulled away from me in the last few miles to finish in 1:51:25 averaging a 8:30 pace.

Back to speed work and fartleks!

This One is for George

2008-10-10T05:53:00.000-07:00

Tanya and I are going to run for George this weekend. When we line up in Long beach this Sunday our hearts will be heavy. You see last year at this same race George( my brother in-law) was at the starting line with us. He ran a 1/2 marathon PR. But a year later nothing is certain, George is fighting cancer. So George this one is for you Brother! May you continue the good fight.
Love You
Marc and Tanya

Our Garden has come to LIFE

2008-10-08T09:26:00.000-07:00

Becoming self sufficient that is the ultimate goal, going green and growing your own food is easier than you think. Everything pictured, except for the coconut (smile); 3 months ago were seeds. Tanya and I are having such a incredible time seeing our food grow, it is so gratifying.
Veggies:
Collard greens
Tomatoes
Butternut Squash
Cucumbers
Yellow zucchini

You are what you eat! If it comes in a box. think 2x's before you eat it.
MJ

I think I am still Feeling 2006

2008-10-06T09:10:00.000-07:00

I know we are only a few months away from 2009, but I stated thinking about why am I so achy, why has it been so hard to get back on running track. I said to myself maybe it began in 2006 Races, so many races so many miles. Then I thought about 2007 and 2008 and the miles didn't stop there.

2007 Races:
Bermuda Marathon
Rocky Raccoon 100 (DNF mile 70) (M+T)
Los Angeles Marathon
San Juan 50K
Rosarito to Ensenada 50 mile bike ride
Relay for life 24 hrs (T= 90+ miles M= 70+miles)
Holcomb Valley 33 miler
*Badwater Solo 135 miles (Tanya), I paced her (60+miles)
*Claremont 5 K
Mt. Disappointment 50 miler
Bulldog 50K
Long Beach 1/2 marathon
*Javalina Jundred (100 miler) I paced her at night
Santa Barbara 9 trails (35 miles)
High Desert Ultra 50K
*Tanya only
2008 Races
Avalon 50 miler
*Calico 50K
Rocky Raccoon 100
Lost Dutchman Marathon
*Ontario 1/2 Marathon
Leona Divide 50 miler
Grand Canyon dbl crossing
San Diego 100 (DNF 70 miles M+T)
Lake Gregory 1/2 marathon
Big Bear Marathon
*Tanya only

We don't plan on stopping the miles so Friday I had a few mugs of Golden Milk, and Saturday we hit the trails (12 miles) and I had the best run I've had in a long time. Then on Sunday we went out for 6 miles and again I felt good. The miles are not going to stop!! No way!! I'm feeling the Juice again.
Long Beach Half this weekend and the High Desert Ultra in December then onto 2009 the ski is the limit!!

I feel some PR's coming on.

Get out there and run people!!!

One love,
Marc

Snake on the Mountain

2008-10-01T07:42:00.000-07:00

This weekend while training on Mt. Baldy, heading down just above the Sierra ski hut Tanya heard a distinctive rattle! She stopped in her tracks, and what did she she a Rattle snake sliding across the trail. She warned me and Doshia of our reptile friend, and we stopped and watched him slither across the trail. A reminder that we are visitors in the wilderness, and we should always be cautious.

First Fruits

2008-09-12T06:15:00.000-07:00

The first fruits of our labor! This year Tanya and I planted a garden in our back yard. It was a little late in the season when we sowed our seeds, but with California's climate we figured we would still be able to grow veggies late into the fall. We were right, here are the first of our crop that includes zucchini, squash, tomatoes, green peppers, and collard greens. Health isn't a destination it's a lifestyle.

Race Report: Big Bear Marathon

2008-09-09T09:49:00.000-07:00

Tanya and I went into the inaugural Big Bear Marathon without any real time goals, we just wanted to have a fun and enjoyable run. The race was scheduled for a 6:30 am start (but ran 15 mins. late) which made for nice cool temperatures. The weather forecast was a high of 84 and without a cloud in the sky I knew the temperatures would climb fast.

With 267 runners to brave the 26.2 miles run at the average elevation of 6800 ft. the race had almost an ultra-marathon feel; plus so many of our ultra friends where there.

Mr. Bear and Tanya
Mr. Bear giving me a pound Charlie (big time marathoner and ultra-marathoner) The Village is stirring Views of Big Bear Lake glistening in the early morning

We would run about 12 miles of lake shore line

I'm not sure if it was the thin air, but at mile 5 my right quad began to burn, and then at mile ten my left quad began to burn. No matter how much I wanted to shift into 2nd gear I just couldn't, so I just took what my body gave me and enjoyed the scenery.

Views from the East end of the lake

The half-marathoners where shuttled to the 13 mile point of the marathon and started a half hour after the marathon. Here is #647 Rebbecca M. and friend Nola en route to finishing their first 1/2 marathon. The hills throughout the course where many especially the second 13 miles, but the ladies kept stepping and finished. You GO GIRLS!!

Another one down, the temperatures began to heat up for the last few miles. Tanya's finishing time was 4:23:52 and my finishing time was 4:36:52. Chalk up another win for the girls, not that I'm counting (Ha). Tanya and I agree the race was well organized even with a late start, the aid stations where every 2 miles; well supplied and full of helpful volunteers. Ahhh!

Big Bear

2008-09-03T16:10:00.001-07:00

It has been a few weeks since Tanya and I have left a new post; but we are still alive and training. We are anxiously anticipating this weekends run, the "Big Bear Marathon". This is the inaugural year, our hopes are high that it will be a fantastic event. The marathon is run around Big Bear lake with an average elevation of 6800 feet. Can you say "thin air". Because of the elevation Big Bear is common training location for many boxers/athletes; most notably "Sugar" Shane Mosley, and Oscar De La Hoya ( I think they are still boxing). Big Bear is also the hometown of Olympic Marathoner Ryan Hall.

Everybody out there running this weekend, first be safe, and second have a wonderful time.

Please erase the hate, life is so short and so precious. In the words of my musical hero Bob Marley "One Love".

MJ and TJ

Running Through the Pines

2008-08-13T06:18:00.000-07:00

We had quite an eventful weekend. Tanya, Allyson and I ran "Run through the Pines 1/2 marathon" which took place at Lake Gregory, Ca. I knew the day was going to be interesting when after picking up our bibs, I noticed I had forgotten my running shoes. Though Tanya did not make a comment, I knew what she was thinking (knuckle head!). I tried to take it in stride, I said people run marathons and Ultra's barefoot, so I can give this 1/2 marathon a shot in my sandals. Plus, I'm sure it will make a great conversation piece on the course; so I tied my timing chip to my Z1 Chaco sandals (LOL) and got ready to rumble.

The course was four loops around Lake Gregory, with a final short fifth loop of about 1.5 miles on trail. At the horn Tanya and Allyson took off leaving me to feel my way into this new style of running. Lap 1 was uneventfully the sandals felt great. I had to focus on my form, but the sandals felt very supportive. I ran the first lap in just under 30 minutes, sub 10 min pace; better than I thought. Lap 2, I'm getting the hang of these things. I had to stop once to make a strap adjustment on the sandals but otherwise I was still feeling strong. Another sub 30 minute lap. Lap 3, I was getting a little bored with the course. Lake Gregory is a nice place, but going in circles is not my favorite. With 2 full laps to go, and the fact that my sandals were kicking butt, I thought to pick up the pace. Still may be able to break 2 hours. As I ran faster, I began to feel a slight burning in both ankles, by the end of lap 3 my ankles and calf's where not happy. The sandals definitely made my ankles and feet work hard, they had no propulsion like running shoes. Lap 3 was my fasted lap. Lap 4 thank goodness, lets just get this thing done. By now my ankles where screaming, but sub 2 hours was still in my grasp. Ok Marc focus on your form and get through this. When I finished lap 4 I felt ok, but I still had Lap 5 (1.1 miles on a trail). Under normal circumstances I love running trails, but my ankles had to work so hard on this section. After about a quarter mile I began walking. I was in real pain. I walked/ran until the trail ended; which left 400 yard to the finish. Tanya was there to cheer me on, I quickened my pace, passed a few runners; and finished in 2 hours and 18 seconds. Shucks!

I received my handmade finisher award, and hobbled over to Tanya to get a hug and a kiss. She had run well. She placed 3rd in her age group. She was awarded a nice hand made 3rd place trophy. Allyson finished also, but had some leg cramping which kept her from performing her best.

Lessons learned: Always check and double check the car for your running shoes. Running in sandals was interesting, but only want to do it again if I HAVE to!

Adventure Weekend

2008-07-28T15:53:00.000-07:00

Tanya and I had 3 days of adventurous activities over the past weekend. But it was what we saw Friday that made the weekend special. After work on Friday we headed to the Angeles Forest for a mid afternoon hike to the summit of Mt. Baldy. After making it to the summit; it was such a beautiful day we decided to stay at the top and soak up some sun and relax.

If you have read previous posts you probably noticed we enjoy training on the trails of Mt. Baldy. Mt Baldy is a great place to hit single track trails at high elevation, you talk about a high! The excitement came on our way back down, we had the rare opportunity to see Big Horn sheep up close and personal.

Look closely, they are in the brush eating and drinking from a stream which runs down between the rocks.As we continued to descend the mountain, we must have gotten their attention. This big fellow stopped eating and drinking and watched us.
We have seen the sheep in the past, but this is the first time they didn't scatter.

In this picture there is a Red tailed hawk sitting on a branch, mostly likely scoping out its next meal. If you click on the pictures sometimes they will enlarge, so you can get a better view :)

On Saturday morning we rose early and headed to the Santa Ana River Trail. If I am ever going to do an Ironman I have to get those cycling miles in. We put in about 50 miles, I have not been in the saddle much lately, man my rear was sore by the end of the ride. We enjoy riding this bike path, there is no automobile traffic or street signals. Because of this you are able to get in a great work-out and push it for miles and miles without interruption. The trail ends in surf-city Huntington beach, so if you like you can take a dip in the ocean.

The adventure did not stop, on Sunday morning we again woke up with the sun and headed to Bonelli park (Puddingstone lake). We jumped in a kayak and paddled for 2 hours around the lake. You talk about a different pace. Running and cycling are on thing, but paddling really changes everything. My shoulders were burning, but it was so nice to be on the water.

So that was our fun and fitness filled weekend. After reading our post, we hope we have motivated you to get out there and live. Life is wonderful, and a blessing. Be grateful for everyday you receive, and remember tomorrow is not promised so have fun today!

Mountain Flowers

2008-07-23T10:10:00.001-07:00

Tanya and I love Wild Mountain Flowers, Don't You?

I don't know the names but they are beautiful.

Jorge Wins the Badwater Ultramarathon

2008-07-16T17:24:00.000-07:00

AN INCREDIBLE RUNNER

(Jorge and wife Maria)

Tanya and I wanted to send a shout out to our friend Jorge Pacheco on his win at the Badwater Ultramarathon. Congratulations!!!! The photo above is from lasts years Badwater when Jorge led the race on record pace through Lone Pine (121 miles), due to exhaustion he faded a bit and finished 4th. But NOT this year!! He pushed to the front after mile 30 and never looked back, finishing the 135 mile race in an incredible 23:20:16.

Marc and Tanya

A beautiful day in a beautiful place

2008-07-15T07:51:00.000-07:00

Tanya and I spent a few hours Sunday morning heading up to Mt. Baldy. It was a great day to get out and experience nature. I haven't run much since the SD100 so this hike was a nice wake up call. We plan on visiting Yosemite National park at the end of the month to hike the Half Dome, so I needed to reawaken my legs. I also needed to get some sun on my new bald head! I figured with a new aerodynamic dew I would be faster (smile).

That is where we are heading. This is a view from in the Baldy bowl. In the winter Alpine skiers hike up with skies on their backs and ski down.

Relaxing on one of the many incredibly large pines that make their home in the Angeles Forest. I hear pines in Yosemite are double this size!

Tanya relaxing at the summit taking in the clean air

Wow look at that head!!
Time to find some new races and goals!!

Freedom 5000

2008-07-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

She still has a pep in her step, on Friday July 4th Tanya ran the Claremont 5000(5K). Claremont, Ca is a quaint college town that puts on a fun running event each year on the 4th. We have both run this race in the past, but I decide to sit this year out and be a cheerleader instead. Along with Tanya a circle of our clients and friends ran. They were Allyson,Emily,Yvonne,Becky & David,Jack & children, Alex,Roberto,Rose,Debbi & Tim,Conrad, and Laura.

Tanya and Allyson a few minutes before the race.

Tanya sporting a running skirt

Running the last turn.
Tanya ended up taking 2nd in her age group.

Allyson finishing strong!

Bunion Derby The 1928 Footrace Across America

2008-06-19T15:36:00.000-07:00

Tanya and I received an awesome gift in the mail yesterday. The gift was and autographed hardback copy of the "Bunion Derby The 1928 Footrace Across America". I can't wait to pour a big cup of coffee and sink into the pages and retrace the steps of these early ultra runners as they ran across America.
Mr. Charles B. Kastner included a letter that said.
"Dear Dr. Marc and Tanya:
First off, I want to thank you for including some of my stories from Blackpast.org in your blog. There is a rich and deep history of black runners who literally risked their lives to compete in long distance races such as the Bunion Derby of 1928. I'm proud I had a part in bringing the stories of these brave men to the attention of the running community. Eddie Gardner, Toby Joseph Cotton, and Sammy Robinson, (and a host of others I've yet to discover) should be celebrated as not only pioneer ultra-runners that pushed back frontiers of what was then thought possible, but also as civil resisters in the same light as Gandhi or Martin Luther King.

I say this because these men knowingly risked their lives for something they believed in. The forces of Jim Crow were aligned against them. They easily could have been killed and nothing would have happened to the perpetrators as the derby followed Route 66 across Texas, Oklahoma and Missouri. But they didn't give up and gave hope to thousands of African Americans who watched them on their perilous journey across the Old South.

I've included a signed copy of my book for you. Thanks again for including my stories on your blog.

Best wishes,
Charles Kastner"

Tanya and I thought this was a thoughtful and special gift from Mr. Kastner, and we wanted to share the good news.

Today is also Juneteeth which signifies the day in 1865 the slaves of Texas were freed; 2 1/2 years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation abolishing slavery. Imagine that!

If you don't know your past, you don't know your future.

Mr. Kastner thank you for sharing the entire story of the Bunion Derby.

Brand New Adventure

2008-06-18T05:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday began a new chapter in our evolution as athletes; Indoor Rock Climbing. Tanya had been wanting to give climbing a try for months, we went to the local indoor climbing club and had a ball!!

Tanya keeping a close eye on me as I scale the wall like Spider man! What a trust builder!! Tanya my life is in your hands, please don't let go of that rope!

That's me doing my best to look confident, it's a long way down. Grip don't fail me now!!

Doesn't she make everthing look easy. Are you Rock Climbing, or just looking cute!

This is called bouldering, no ropes, no harness, just a padded floor for when you fall. Much more challenging than it looks.

We had a great time and a strenuous work-out, rock climbing is a definite total body work-out. Loved it!! Your balance and core strength are really challenged. The total body work-out it delivers I think will help tremendously in running especially technical trail running. We can't wait to go back!! Marc and Tanya

San Diego 100: Rocks, Rocks, and more ROCKS

2008-06-09T11:03:00.000-07:00

I am disappointed to tell you Tanya and I DNF'ed at mile 70; but I will follow with a race report in the next day or two.

I know I said I would write a race report on the SD100, but I just can't get up to it. I guess I just want to put it behind and move forward. I'm not a sour grape about it, I just don't want to elaborate about it. It just wasn't our day, Tanya or I. We are looking forward to new adventures and races :) So I am sorry to disappoint anyone who may have been interested in reading a report.
"Sometimes you have to live to fight another day"
Peace
MJ

GRAND CANYON 2008: video shorts

2008-06-05T16:50:00.000-07:00

RIVER CROSSING

RIBBON FALLS

CRAZY SQUIRREL

Views of Bermuda

2008-06-05T08:05:00.000-07:00

BERMUDA DREAMING

Of all the races I have ever run, I have never felt so much LOVE. The people of Bermuda are fantastic.
BERMY LOVE !!!

View of St. Georges from St. Davids Island
Another view of St. Georges Harbor
Bridges connecting St. Davids Island to St Georges Island
Gombeys during the "24th of May Parade"
The St. Georges Majorettes

Tanya and the newest member of the family Zori and my Mom after the run enjoying the parade

Grand Canyon and Beyond

2008-06-03T09:44:00.000-07:00

It has been a few weeks since Tanya and I posted.
We checked out for a few weeks.
I wanted to bring you up to date on our adventures. Our trekk across the Grand Canyon was a blast. If you have the opportunity to visit and run there, Do it! It will be an experience you will never forget!! Words can't explain the beauty and vast size of the place; so I will let pictures do all the talking.
The Monday after the Grand Canyon we jumped on a plane; and spent 2 weeks on the pink sand beaches of Bermuda. While there we ran the Bermuda Days 1/2 marathon which takes place on the island holiday "The 24th of May". I have to honestly say of all of the races I have run, I had never felt so much LOVE from the crowd. I can't wait to go back and run this race next year.
Note: if your not a local (Bermudian: Tanya is, I'm not) you cannot run the race officially. So I did not get an official time, but it was a blast!!

DAY ONE

GOING FROM SOUTH TO NORTH

VIEW FROM THE TOP LOOKING NORTH
BRIGHT ANGEL TRAIL BELOW
GROUP SHOT
THE DAY HAS JUST BEGUN
THE COLORADO RIVER BELOW

JEANNETTE COOLING OFF AT RIBBON FALLS

TANYA STRIKING A POSEMAC STUNNED BY THE COLD WATER

CACTUS FLOWER IN FULL BLOOMTREKKING OFF TRAILHEADING UP THE NORTH RIMCATHY AND DAVID RELAXING AFTER GETTING TO THE NORTH RIM

DAY TWO

THE NORTH RIM LODGE HEY WAIT FOR MESNOW STILL ON THE NORTH SIDE

TANYA HEADING DOWN THE NORTH SIDE HEADING BACK ACROSS THE COLORADO RIVERGETTING CLOSE TO THE TOP

HE WAS ONLY A FEW FEET OFF THE TRAIL!

TANYA AND JEANNETTE WAITING FOR THE TROOPS TO FINISH

Happy Trails,

Marc and Tanya

Mt. Baldy get there before all of the snow melts

2008-05-05T16:43:00.000-07:00

Tanya and I needed to get high!

So, we climbed to the top of Mt. Baldy.

The best way to get those lungs ready before a long run or a race is to do some elevation training.

The Summit of Mt Baldy is just over 10,000 feet.Can you believe it was 80 degrees at the bottom

People still don't believe it snows in Sunny California

Almost to the summit
The skies where so clear we could see for miles

I think these are called snow cones or cups, caused

by the sun.

Grand Canyon here we come! MJ

Ice House Canyon Hike

2008-05-01T15:37:00.000-07:00

For a recovery hike after the Leona Divide 50 miler, Tanya, Jeannette and I hiked to the Saddle on the Ice house Canyon Trail. If you are looking for a beautiful hike this is the one. Old Cabins, large pines, mountain streams, incredible views of Mt Baldy.

Mt. Baldy in the distance
Sporting a beard
2 of the three amigo's.

I forgot to Give Jeannette a shout out!

She ran Leona Divide 50 miler like a pro finishing in 12:20:32

You Go GIRL!

"Don't be afraid to say what you think"

Marc J

Race Report: Leona Divide 50 miler

2008-04-24T17:08:00.000-07:00

It had been 62 days since Tanya and I had run a race, so we were excited to get back on the trail. Running Leona Divide 2 years ago, I understood the challenge to be faced today. The course is very challenging with 9000 ft of elevation gain and loss. I remember trail conditions being good, but with climbs and the descents that are butt kickers.

I started the race with 3 goals.

1) Finish

2) Finish under 12 hours

3) No injuries or make my knee any worse

At 6am the clang of the saw blade started the field of runners off; a tradition at Leona Divide. The first 3 miles are climbing, this allowed Tanya and I see and talk to friends we hadn't seen in a while. Being a slow starter the early climb allowed me to walk a bit and warm my legs for the faster pace I would hopefully be able to maintain later in the run. The temperature was cool so I wore Moben sleeves, which work great. We walked and ran the early miles with our friend Kirk Fortini. After a restroom break I was separated from them and would not run with Tanya again until the turn around point.

As I reached the few flat sections of this 3 mile climb I was able to jog a bit. My legs felt really good. I kept saying to myself "today is going to be a good day". I caught Jen Griste and we chatted for a while. I had met Jen at the RR100. I then pushed ahead and ran into the EverReady Bunny's Jill Childers and Carmela Layson We chatted and ran together for a few miles. My body was settling as we pushed forward at a comfortable pace. Another goals was to cover five miles per hour; that is, for as long as I could. We spilt at the second aid station(13.4 miles) . Because I wore a Wasp pack (Ultimate direction) I was able to cruise through the early aid stations.

After this aid station the PCT (Pacific Crest Trail) begins, the trail narrowed to single track and I was in my element. Running single track is probably what I enjoy most about trail running, man it makes me feel free and strong. I fell into a nice pace behind a group of 4 other runners, being tempted to pass I didn't. Instead I fell into their rhythm and conserved, plus the pace was moving at a 9:30 per mile clip. I was really feeling strong and that pace was good, plus I didn't want to use everything up.

By the next aid station that group had broken up. As I entered the 4th aid station(mile 24.5) I heard the voice of an angel call my name. I turned and it was Tanya, she had caught me. Then she handed me my Philadelphia Eagles hat, it had fallen off the back of my pack. She is always picking up after me (LOL). I gave her a kiss and a hug, but I was in the zone so I took off again. This was a long down hill section, with my knee feeling exceptionally well I pushed the pace a little. This was and an out and back section so I would have to climb back up this section.

Cruised into the 5th aid station (mile 28.o) drank 2 cups of coke, quickly filled my hydration bladder, and grabbed a bag of shot bloks. While leaving the aid station Deb Clem and Little Jet gave me a high five. Little Jet made me smile and I was off again, there was a long hard climb ahead of me. After crossing the road and starting up the trail, Jorge Pacheco came cruising towards me. We exchanged words and I refocused. While climbing the hill I saw a few runners ahead of me and my chase instinct kicked in.

The sun was out at this time but temperatures remained cool. A few times during this climb I felt my heart rate and breathing increase to much; I was pushing beyond my zone so I slowed a bit. I can say with confidence that I am becoming a much stronger hill climber.

Finally the top and aid station #6 (mile 32) which meant only 3.6 miles to the turn around. Then it would be time to bring it on home baby! While at the station Tanya came cruising in, she looked great, but she said she still wasn't feeling great. Again we hugged and I walked out knowing she would be alright.

By this time more and more runners were coming back from the out and back section. Seeing them gave me encouragement. But I have to say this was the toughest section of the day for me. The trail was narrow and with the other runners sharing the single track I had to step aside many times to allow them to pass as they came towards me. I walked a lot due to many turns and short climbs in this section.

Finally, it felt so good to make it to the turn around point, Tanya came in just a few minutes behind me. I filled my hydration bladder, joked with Dennis and took a picture with Tanya. We started out together, but she still wasn't herself so I pushed on knowing she would come around and most likely dust me on the last long climb. Running away from that station I felt a fresh breath of air. Glancing at my watch, I had fallen off my goal of 5 miles per hour; but I was sure I was going to break 12 hours possibly even 11 hours. I don't wear an iPod so I started singing to myself and aloud "Get up Stand up". Bob Marley is my favorite musical artist. I only stopped at the next aid station for 2 cups of coke and then headed downhill (4 miles) to Aid station #9.

When I made it to the bottom of the hill and to the aid station I did not see any runners in front or behind me. I topped my hydration bladder, I did not want to stop at the next aid station which would be the last. Grabbed more shot bloks and got out of there. As I crossed the stream, I heard volunteers cheering for another runner, someone was on my trail. I didn't want anyone to catch me on the climb. I was feeling good so I turned up the pace, but this is a long steep climb and I didn't want to burn out. About a mile into the climb, I looked over shoulder and saw a runner behind me about a 1/2 mile, turn it up again. Then ahead of me a runner appeared, Mark Chamley. We had been playing leap frog with each other all day. But seeing him he ignited my chase instinct again. I started running in intervals and knocking down the miles. Finally I made it to the top, and the last aid station, I didn't stop long.

One more climb of about a mile then 3 miles downhill to the finish. They had honey at the station so I gulped down some and was off, sub 11 hours was possible. I said "Peace" to the volunteers and was out. As I reached the last summit I took a picture of Lake Hugh's the promise land :). The legs were fatigued but still strong so I slowly picked up the pace and ran the final 3 miles. With less than 100 yards to go I caught Mark Chamley and Robert Baird I gave them each a pound(hand-shake). They didn't mind me passing them just before the finish line. I finished in 10:46:27 an new 50 mile PR.

I was able to meet all of my goals with a PR as a Bonus! I fell in the first chair I could find, then Mark and Robert finished. Mark gave me a little crap for passing him right at the finish but it was all good. I told him I had been trying to catch him since seeing him ahead of me on the long climb. I rested and watched others cross the finish. Tanya and Jimmy Fullerton they had teamed up to finish strong (10:56:43). They told me one more mile and they would have caught me! Tanya's garmin recorded 7:30's for her last 3 miles. Smokin'. We hung out and chatted, it was a great day spent with great people. Hey Jill, will I be at the SD100? I'm still thinking about it (LOL).

Leona Divide 50 short video on PCT

2008-04-22T11:17:00.000-07:00

Race Report to follow we had a great run!
MJ

Upcoming race:Leona Divide 50 miler

2008-04-17T16:45:00.000-07:00

Well on Saturday it will have been 62 days since Tanya and I have run a race. That is the longest time in between races that I can remember. Whew! The mountains are calling (LOL). We are both anxiously looking forward to getting back out on the trails with so many of our Ultra friends. We are both feeling good. Tanya is ready to rock and roll, though I am still nursing a tender knee; I think I will be good.
I guess this is a way to find out!
We ran the Leona Divide a few years back I remember it being challenging and extremely scenic. The course is on 33+ miles of the PCT. I can't wait to write a race report.

See you on the trails
MJ

Maasai Warriors run the London marathon

2008-04-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

This past weekend at the London Marathon a group of Maasai Warriors from Tanzania ran to raise money to help pay for the drilling of water wells for their people. What we take for granted is a matter of life and death in many countries around the world. We should not only be grateful for what we have, but also be willing to help our brothers and sisters of the world without prejudice.

"They are known for their running abilities and traditionally live on a diet featuring blood and milk. By Kate Kelland "LONDON (Reuters) - They survive on fresh blood drained from the neck of a living cow, they often run for days and nights on end to find water and their shoes are made from car tires

cut up and strapped to their feet. So running the London Marathon should be no problem for six

Maasai warriors who have come to Britain from their village of Elaui in northern Tanzania as part of a campaign to raise money to find a vital water source (http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/nm/lf_nm/storytext/britain_maasai_marathon_dc/27002574/SIG=10v7kjctt/*http://www.maasaimarathon.org).
"Back at home we sometimes run for 5 or 6 days, day and night," Isaya, a young warrior clothed in a red robe and adorned with traditional beaded jewelry, told Reuters in an interview. "Twenty-six miles not far."
He and his fellow warriors, all between 20 and 25 years old, expect to reach the finish line of Sunday's race within four and a half hours.
They will run in traditional dress -- a red "shuka" blanket toga and car-tire sandals -- carrying spears and shields showing their running numbers, and will sing and dance along the 26.2 mile route through the British capital.
"And we will do the whole marathon with no water," Isaya adds. "We often travel for many days, eating only twice a day, and we have no water."
"If we have no milk or meat, we cut the cow's neck and let out the blood to drink. If I drink enough blood -- maybe two or three liters -- it gives me a lot of energy and I can go for days without food or water."

Africa the Motherland I long to visit you

The Safety of Plastic Bottles

2008-04-11T07:07:00.000-07:00

Plastic bottles and running go hand in hand, but how safe is the plastic used in your favorite running bottle? A recent report says it may not be that healthy and drinking from them could be leaching chemicals into your water or sports drink that could be causing infertility and even cancer.

Taken from a story on the Today show.

"But the "Today Show" report focused on a number system on the bottom of plastic bottles. The system is supposed to give you an indication of the chemicals in each bottle. Some scientists say a "1" on the bottle means it's safe. A 3, 6, or 7 would mean it's potentially unsafe."

Take a moment to look at the bottom of your bottle before your next run it might be time to trade that one in for maybe a safe one. But who's to say. If it not one thing it's another! I just want to got out for a run!! MAN!!

Links to related stories:

Hidden Dangers In Plastics

Is Your Water Bottle Safe

Be safe out there,

African American Ultra Runners IV

2008-04-09T07:49:00.001-07:00

Borrowed from Blackpast.org I wish I had been alive to witness such an amazing event. Another American running Hero.
Edward Gardner (1898-1966)

Image Courtesy of Charles Kastner Edward Gardner was born in Birmingham, Alabama in December 1898. Shortly after his birth, his family moved west and eventually settled in Seattle. Gardner returned to Alabama in 1914, to attend Tuskegee Institute, where he learned a trade as a steam engineer and became a star on the school’s track team.

By 1921, Gardner was living in Seattle and began competing in the annual Ten Mile Washington State Championship, sponsored by the Seattle Post Intelligencer. Gardner won the race three times from 1921-1927, setting course records as he went and beating the best amateur and military runners in the Pacific Northwest. As he trained, he adopted his trademark outfit, a white towel tied around his head, a white sleeveless shirt and white trunks. His Seattle fans would call out “oh you Sheik.” The name stuck and Eddie Gardner became known as the “the Sheik” of Seattle.

In 1928, Gardner entered the first footrace across America, nicknamed the “bunion derby” (Los Angeles to New York City in 84 days). He was
one of five African Americans in a field Derby, 1928
of 199 “bunioneers.” The men averaged forty miles a day and faced brutally tough conditions, including crossing the Mojave Desert and the high country of Arizona and New Mexico on a then mostly unpaved Route 66. In Texas, Oklahoma, and Missouri, Gardner endured a hail of racial slurs and death threats from irate southern whites enraged by sight of a black man beating white competitors in the Jim Crow South. In one case, a white farmer trained a rifle on his back, and followed him on horseback for an entire day, daring him to pass another white man. Eddie endured this assault with Zen-like calm. His heroic run was a symbol of hope and pride to thousands of black Americans who saw him race. Gardner finished eighth out of fifty-five finishers and first among the three black finishers, earning a thousand dollars for his efforts.

In the 1930s the Sheik competed in the annual 52-mile walking race around Lake Washington, known as “the Lake Hike.” In 1938, he set the course record, beating the Northwest’s best distance walkers.

Shortly after his death in August 1966, the legendary Seattle PI sports writer, Royal Brougham, wrote “Eddie Sheik Gardner went to his last long rest this week, but not until the popular negro globe trotter had racked up more running mileage than any Northwest athlete in history during his 35 years as a competitor.” For thousands of black children who saw him on his epic 3,400 mile run to New York, he was a star of hope and pride in a time of despair. He was Eddie Gardner, the Sheik of Seattle, an iron man and “bunioneer.”

Sources:
Charles B. Kastner, Bunion Derby: The First Footrace Across America (Albuquerque: University of New Mexico Press, 2007).

Training run in Malibu

2008-04-07T16:53:00.000-07:00

We went for a 18 mile training run Sunday in the Malibu Creek State Park. I just love running here especially this time of the year. The weather is perfect unlike in August when the Bulldog Ultra 50K is held here, temperatures can climb into the high ninety's. Which I have experienced during that race. But that would not be the case Sunday, I don't think it ever got above 60 degrees at least not while we were out there. Wild flowers are in full bloom, and just the beauty of the park is startling. I hope you enjoy the pictures.
MJ

Into the Park we go

Giant Oaks

Creek Dam

Old MASH film site

The Sun Peaking Through

Back Bone Trail

MS WALK: So Cal 2008

2008-04-07T15:42:00.001-07:00

Don't let that beautiful smile fool you, the woman behind it is an enthusiastic, strong, and determined individual. Fighting MS, Rene Webb in 2000 decided to make a difference in her health and fitness by taking on a personal trainer to help improve her ADL's (Activity of Daily Living). Rene progressed from an electric scooter, to a walker and then to a cane. Two years into her exercise program Rene made a long term goal to complete the Southern California MS 5K (3.2 mile) walk. Rene's 2-3 days a week of Personal Training consisted of weight training, ball exercises, yoga, balancing, stretching, trail walking, biking, swimming, nutrition consulting, massage therapy and chiropractic care. Oh! and let's not forget those needed rest days. Rene got more confident and stronger every year while staying focused on her goal. With her Personal Trainers Dr. Marc and I; and the support of her family and Team Joyful Noise. On Saturday April 5, 2008 at the Southern California MS walk , she was victorious in reaching this awesome personal goal. Rene walked and finished the entire 3.2 miles! On her on 2 feet. She is one tough cookie.YOU GO RENE!!

Rene with friends and Tanya setting a comfortable pace in the early miles. Rene knows to start slow and finish strong.
Rene sticking to her plan. No time for smiles. Tanya we've got to get this 3.2 miles done!
Dashing past Rene's team sign "JOYFUL NOISE" at the half way point and still looking very strong.Whew! I need a rest stop! Tanya could you please massage my legs. Aah that feels so good!

SHE DID IT!!! Rene walked the entire 3.2 miles. Getting a big Kiss and hugs. We are so proud of you!

Enjoying in Rene's success is her husband Reggie and their newest grandson Jason. Rene you're a testament to what exercise can do in an individuals life. Though you deal with MS on a daily basis, you've not allowed it to steal your JOY. Let's go and make a "JOYFUL NOISE".

Tanya J.

Golden Milk

2008-04-04T09:36:00.000-07:00

I have previously blogged and posted an article about the dangers of Ibuprofen and running. The dangers outweigh the benefit, but many runners continue to take there health for granted by taking these drugs before, during and after running. Well while surfing the net I found an alternative healthy option. It is said to work just as effective as these drugs. Not only does it have tremendous anti-inflammatory properties, but it is loaded with antioxidants and other phytonutrients. "Turmeric has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic properties and is considered a blood purifier. Curcumin, found in turmeric, is an anti-oxidant. Anti-oxidant is a substance that has the ability to stabilize or neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals. An anti-oxidant may be a vitamin or mineral such as vitamin C or zinc. Free radicals are produced when cells convert oxygen to energy. A few free radicals are not dangerous, but too many can damage cell membranes, proteins and DNA. To get more information on free-radicals read this article. There’s a lot of research being done to see whether turmeric can be used to treat arthritis. Studies have also found that India, with its turmeric rich cuisine, has fewer cases of Alzheimer’s."
Turmeric is a root related to ginger and is often used in Indian curry dishes. It has a distinctive yellow color.

So all you runners go out and buy some organic turmeric and make some "Golden Milk". The recipe is as follows.

1 Cup soy milk or cow milk

1 tbs of turmeric
1 tbs of almond oil
1 tsp honey or to taste
dash nutmeg

In a small pot add soy milk, turmeric, almond oil, and nutmeg.

Bring mixture close to a boil. Then with a egg beater lightly whisk

until thoroughly blended together.

Pour into mug, add honey to taste.

Enjoy!!

I have been drinking it for a week, it seems to be helping; but the proof is in the pudding. Time will tell.

"Golden Milk" might just save you kidneys.

African American Ultra Runners III

2008-04-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

Ultra runners complain of no money for the for the top athletes and few sponsors, looking to the past its seems ultra runners/walkers were paid extremely well. I wonder if modern ultra athletes will be able to attain such adornment that people are willing to pay such purses.
Borrowed from Blackpast.org

Frank “Black Dan”Hart (1859-?)

In the late 1870’s and early 1880’s, the sport of “six day, go as you please” endurance racing gripped the United States and Great Britain. The participants in these events were called pedestrians, and they were free to run or walk around an indoor track for as long as they could stay on their feet. The top pedestrians survived on less than four hours of sleep a day and slept on cots inside the track’s oval. Fans followed these six day contests of endurance with all the fervor of today’s NFL fans. They also placed bets on prospective winners.
On April 10, 1880, an African American pedestrian, Frank Hart stood atop this international craze for six day racing. His given name was Fred Hichborn but he changed it to Frank Hart when he turned professional. Hart had just won the prestigious O’Leary Belt competition and smashed the world record, after covering 565 miles in six days of racing. He earned almost $17,000 in prize money, which was a small fortune in 1880. As the race ended, he waved an American flag to thousands of cheering fans who packed Madison Square Garden. Another African American, William Pegram of Boston finished second with 540 miles. Hart also competed in one of the international Astley Belt competitions, and set an American record when he won the Rose Belt in Madison Square Garden in December 1879.
Hart was born in Haiti in 1859, immigrated to the United States in 1872, and began working in a grocery store in Boston Massachusetts. As the pedestrian craze swept the nation, he began competing in local events. He soon caught the eye of Daniel O’Leary, an Irish immigrant and sports promoter who had once held the world record for six day racing and had twice won the Astley Belt competition. O’Leary financed Hart during his professional career. Hart earned the nickname “Black Dan” from his association with O’Leary. As the pedestrian craze died in later years, Hart tried professional roller-skating and may have played professional baseball in a Chicago Negro league.
Frank Hart should be remembered as a pioneer ultramarathoner who pushed the limits of human endurance. He also offered hope that blacks and whites could compete against each other as equals. Hart suffered through his share of racial taunts during these six day contests, but he was also wildly popular with thousands of spectators of all races who followed the sport.
As interest in six day racing died, Hart’s brilliant career was almost forgotten. The nation would have to wait another fifty years before African American ultramarthoners would again catch the country’s attention—this time in the “bunion derby,” the first footrace across American, held in 1928. Three black runners, Eddie Gardner, Sammy Robinson, and Toby Joseph Cotton, Junior, risked their lives as the Los Angeles to New York City course took them across parts of the segregated South, in this incredible 3,422 mile, 84 day odyssey across America.

Sources:Kastner, Charles B., Bunion Derby: The First Footrace Across America (Albuquerque: University of New Mexico Press, 2007); Sears, Edward S., Running Through The Ages (Jefferson, North Carolina: McFarland and Company, Inc., 2001); “Hart First in The Race,” New York Times, 28 Dec 1879; “Miscellaneous,” New York Times, 29 Dec 1879; “Frank Hart The Winner,” New York Times, 11 April 1880; “All Working Hard Except Complacent Frank Hart,” New York Times, 3 March 1885.

African American Ultra Runners II

2008-03-28T06:13:00.000-07:00

Borrowed from Blackpast.org
Not even old enough to drive yet. To help his family this young man faced incredible odds and ran aross the United States. The youth of today can learn so much from the past, share this story with them.
MJ

Cotton, Toby Joseph, Jr. (1913–1978)

Toby Joseph Cotton, Jr., was born in Louisiana on March 2, 1913. By 1916, his family had migrated to Portland, Oregon before moving to Los Angeles, where his father worked as an auto mechanic. In 1925, Toby Cotton, Sr. was severely injured when a truck he was working on slipped off a jack. It crushed him, leaving him incapacitated and with his large family facing poverty.Toby Jr., the oldest of three boys, saw a chance to help his family when he read about the $25,000 first prize offered to the winner of the “Bunion Derby,” the nickname for the first footrace across America, scheduled to begin in Los Angeles on March 4, 1928. The prize money, a small fortune in the 1920s, lured this barely fifteen year old high school freshman to convince his parents to let him enter. On March 4, 1925, Toby joined 198 “bunioneers” at the start. He was listed as “T. Joseph” in press reports. He was one of five African Americans in the race. His father and his two younger brothers, Wesley, 13, and James, 10, followed Toby across the nation in the family’s well-worn car. Wesley drove while James brought his brother food and water as he ran. The men averaged forty miles a day and faced brutally tough conditions, including the Mojave Desert and the high country of Arizona and New Mexico. In Texas, Oklahoma, and Missouri, the black runners endured a hail of racial slurs and death threats from southern whites enraged by the sight of African Americans competing against whites in the Jim Crow South. Toby persevered in spite of the hardships. When the derby ended in New York City, Toby’s dream of saving his family seemed in tatters: He finished in 35th place, the family had used the last of its meager savings, and their battered car had broken down.Things looked bleak for the Cottons until William “Bojangles” Robinson came to the rescue. Robinson, who was in New York City starring in the all black musical, “Black Birds,” at the Liberty Theatre, organized a benefit performance for the Cottons and used the proceeds to buy the family a new car and send money back to Toby’s mother. Harlem philanthropist Casper Holstein presented Toby with a diamond-studded, gold medal for his historic run.Toby Joseph Cotton, Jr. died on July 20, 1978. At fifteen he was the youngest person to ever run across the United States.

Sources:Charles B. Kastner, Bunion Derby: The First Footrace Across America (Albuquerque: University of New Mexico Press, 2007); “Benefit to Help Young Bunion Derby Runner Go Back Home, June 19,” New York Age, 16 June 1928; “Tobey Josephs Gets Diamond Medal and Auto From N. Y. Friends,” New York Age, 30 June 1928.

Spring is Here

2008-03-27T16:39:00.001-07:00

This weekend Tanya and I ran at our new favorite trail running spot; Bonelli Park. Spring is here, and the wild flowers are in full bloom. We had a terrific run in a beautiful place. We are looking forward to running the Leona Divide 50 miler in a few weeks. Enjoy the pictures.
Get out there and run! God is everywhere!

MJ

Impossible is Nothing

2008-03-26T06:23:00.000-07:00

What a cool commercial, I meet Muhammad Ali at LAX when I was 4 years old.I would be incredible to run with such an athlete and an admirable man. He stood and still stands for something bigger than himself. The Greatest of ALL Time Ali, Ali, Ali!!!

Get out there and get FIT, and stay FIT!!
Enjoy MJ

African American Ultra Runners

2008-03-24T15:54:00.000-07:00

Borrowed from BlackPost.org
After being exposed to Ted Corbitt I thought it would be thoughtful to share the stories of other African American Ultra Runners. I have been inspired by them, and I hope you will be to. I will continue to share their stories as I find them.

Robinson, Samuel L. (1896-1964?)
Samuel L. Robinson was born in Kansas in 1896. He arrived in Atlantic City, New Jersey, in his teens, where he attended the city's integrated high school. He joined the school's football team and became a close friend of the team captain and the future sports editor of the Press-Union newspaper, Lou Greenberg. After serving in World War I, Robinson came home to Atlantic City and fought as a professional boxer. He earned his nickname "Smiling Sammy" because of his seemingly perpetual good mood. He was deeply religious, preaching an ethos of hard work and faith in God to anyone who would listen.In 1928, Robinson entered the first footrace across America, run from Los Angeles to New York City in eighty-four days. The press nicknamed the race a "bunion derby." Sammy had no experience as a distance runner, but he was a superbly trained and gifted athlete. His old friend Lou Greenberg gave him a check for three hundred dollars for training expenses and the promise of fifty dollars for each state he crossed. Robinson joined four African Americans who entered the race out of a field of 199 "bunioneers."The first 2,400 miles of the 3,400-mile course followed Route 66 across the Mojave Desert, the high country of Arizona and New Mexico, the Texas panhandle, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Illinois to its end in Chicago. In addition to the challenge of running daily ultra marathons, the blacks runners had the added burden of running across the Jim Crow South. Starting in Texas, the three remaining black runners (Edward Gardner, Toby Joseph Cotton, Jr., and Robinson) faced a daily barrage of death threats and racial slurs from whites outraged by the sight of blacks beating white competitors.Despite the abuse, Robinson kept going. Along the way he earned the thanks and support of thousands of blacks who saw him run across Route 66. In Chandler, Oklahoma, he spoke to a packed house of four hundred hero-worshipping students at the Douglass School. He told them: "Don't smoke, don't chew, and don't use strong drink . . . If you want to be at your best, lead clean wholesome lives." A reporter from the Black Dispatch said, "Sammy has a way that really gets over with a crowd."He finished forty-fifth out of fifty-five finishers. Despite his standing, the citizens of Atlantic City gave him a heartfelt welcome when he stepped off the train from New York City. A sea of people swept aside a security detail and surged onto the platform to greet him. One large man plucked him from the crowd and carried him to the waiting car of the city's mayor, who paraded Sammy through the streets to a welcoming ceremony at the Ambassador Hotel.Sammy Robinson apparently died in 1964. He should always be remembered for his historic run across America. He risked his life to compete in the bunion derby, and became a symbol of hope and pride for black America.
Sources:Charles B. Kastner, Bunion Derby: The First Footrace Across America (Albuquerque: University of New Mexico Press, 2007); "10,000 Roar Welcome to Smiling Sammy," Afro-American, 2 June 1928; "Bunion Runners Disrupt Lincoln County Track Meet," Black Dispatch, 19 Apr. 1928.

Random thoughts

2008-03-19T06:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon while on a 11 mile trail run through Bonelli park these words of Ted Corbitt came to my mind. "You don’t need a goal. You don’t need a race. You don’t need the hype of a so-called fitness craze. All you need is a cheap pair of shoes and some time. The rest will follow.” Those words made me think of the present running and ultrarunning craze that is sweeping America. To me I think it is becoming over marketed and possibly selling out! Seems like every city is rushing to put on a marathon, every organization is rallying troops to raise money for their cause. Don't get me wrong I'm a health and fitness professional, I am an advocate for exercise; but......COME ON! Are these cities and people participating for the right reasons? I have met to many people running because it is a Fad! They are not well coached, trained, or prepared for what a marathon and beyond does to the body. Maybe I'm just rambling and this posted doesn't make sense. I want people to get off their butts and get fit, but if you have been sedentary for 20 yrs and are 40 lbs over weight. Maybe training for a marathon is not what you should start with. You may do more damage then you think. But referring back to the words of Ted Corbitt, don't fall for the hype, just get outside and get in shape for yourself, not because it is "the in thing"!
MJ

The father of American distance running

2008-03-18T06:22:00.000-07:00

I am sad to say until a few months ago I had no knowledge of this icon of American distance running. Ted Corbitt was a true pioneer. I wanted to take this opportunity to share with our blog readers an article from the NY times written about him detailing some of his accomplishments. I was totally blown away! He was the true "UltraMarathon Man".

Ted Corbitt, a Pioneer in American Distance Running, Dies at 88

By FRANK LITSKY
Published: December 13, 2007
Ted Corbitt, who began running as a child on his father’s cotton farm in South Carolina and virtually never stopped, becoming a pioneer of ultramarathon running in the United States, died Wednesday in Houston. He was 88 and lived in Manhattan.

His death, at a hospital, was caused by respiratory complications, his son, Gary, said. In recent years, Corbitt was found to have prostate cancer and colon cancer, his son said.

When Corbitt was 55, bronchial asthma ended his elite running career but not his participation in ultramarathons. At 81, he walked 240 miles in a six-day race, with interludes for sleep. The next year, in the same race, he walked 303 miles.

In 1993, the year before he died, Fred Lebow, the founder of the New York City Marathon, called Corbitt “the father of American distance running.”

By his own count, Corbitt ran 199 marathons and ultramarathons, which are typically races of 50 or 100 miles or 24 hours. (Marathons are 26 miles 385 yards.) He won 30 of those races and never dropped out of one until he was 75, he said. He trained by running as many as 200 miles a week. In his heyday, Corbitt — shy and slight at 5 feet 7 inches and 130 pounds — was a United States marathon champion and a member of the United States team at the 1952 Olympics in Helsinki, Finland, where he finished a disappointing 44th in the marathon.

At various times, Corbitt held American records in the marathon, the 100-mile run and the 25-, 40- and 50-kilometer events. He also won national American Athletic Union championships in several distance running events. His fastest time in a marathon was 2 hours 26 minutes 44 seconds.

In 1957, Corbitt helped found the Road Runners Club of America; he was later its president. He established guidelines to measure courses accurately for the thousands of nationally certified races. In 1958, he was a co-founder and the first president of the New York Road Runners Club. He was among the first five athletes inducted into the National Distance Running Hall of Fame in Utica, N.Y., in 1998.

Theodore Corbitt was born Jan. 31, 1919, in Dunbarton, S.C. “On the farm, I ran to the store, to the mailbox and to school,” he told Trishul Cherns in a 1988 interview that appears on the Web site UltraRunning Online.

After moving to Cincinnati, he ran competitively in high school and at the University of Cincinnati in half-mile, one-mile and two-mile events. As a young black athlete, he also encountered racial barriers.

“The color line was drawn even in some of the meets in Cincinnati, so I could not participate in them,” he said in the 1988 interview. “In the Midwest, places like Illinois and Indiana, there were track meets, but I was a little reluctant to take part in them because I did not know what type of reception I would get and what problems I would have getting a place to stay and getting something to eat.”

After graduating from Cincinnati with a bachelor’s degree in education and serving in the Army in World War II, Corbitt moved to New York, where, as a night student, he earned a master’s in physical therapy at New York University in 1950. He ran his first marathon, in Boston, in 1951.

In 1959, as the president of the New York Road Runners Club, Corbitt organized the first ultramarathon event in the United States, a 30-mile course through the Bronx and Queens and into Westchester County, said Gail Waesche Kislevitz, a coordinator for the New York Road Runners Foundation. Corbitt won that race, called the Cherry Tree, a forerunner of the New York City Marathon, and went on to organize many more.

Corbitt championed running for exercise long before it became popular in the United States. He never smoked, he said, and had only one drink in his life, a can of beer while in the Army.

His training regimens were legendary. For a time, he ran 200 miles or more a week, often in Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx and Prospect Park in Brooklyn. He once ran the marathon distance every day for a month. He often ran a 31-mile loop around Manhattan in about 3:45. Sometimes he did two loops. He also trained with weights.

Corbitt was the chief physical therapist at the International Center for the Disabled on East 24th Street in Manhattan. Until 1973, he ran to work every day, sometimes making a 20- to 30-mile detour through Westchester.

He also taught physical therapy at Columbia and N.Y.U., wrote widely on athletics and physical therapy, and officiated at races. On at least one occasion, he ran connected to electrodes to study the effects of running on the body.

He retired from his job in 1993 but remained a full-time physical therapist into his 80s. His wife of 42 years, the former Ruth Butler, died in 1989. His son, Gary, of Jacksonville, Fla., is his only immediate survivor.

“The marathon demands patience and a willingness to stay with it,” Corbitt was quoted as saying in a 1998 book by Ms. Kislevitz, “First Marathons: Personal Encounters With the 26.2-Mile Monster.” “You must be willing to suffer and keep on suffering. Running is something you just do. You don’t need a goal. You don’t need a race. You don’t need the hype of a so-called fitness craze. All you need is a cheap pair of shoes and some time. The rest will follow.”

"KNOWLEDGE CHANGES THINGS"
MJ

Haile Gebrselassie pulls out of Beijing marathon

2008-03-13T05:42:00.000-07:00

Haile Gerbrselassie considered to be one of the greatest distance runners of all time pulls out of the Beijing Olympic marathon due to pollution in the city. After reading and seeing this video regarding his choice to do so I began thinking about how smog here in Southern California is affecting my health and my running. By no means do I claim to be an elite athlete, but I do value my health and I do take my training seriously.
Well what I did was compare my average pace and heart rate over the last 3 weeks. What I found was that during morning runs and 2 beach runs compared to my lunch hour runs their was a significant difference in the two values. In the morning runs of the same distance compared to the afternoon runs of the same distance (different days) my average heart rate was 12 bpm less and my average pace was up 30 seconds less per mile. I also noted less perceived exertion. Yes this was a very small and short experiment and I did not address many variables such as mood, temperature, fatigue, course,etc... But studies of a air quality state that morning hours are best for runs due to lower smog levels, and that beach air is often less polluted due to the ocean breeze blowing the smog inland (where I live).
So I say Kudos to Gebrselassie "Health is Wealth" without it what do we have. He has made a great choice that will send incredible shock waves.
MJ

2008 Los Angeles Marathon

2008-03-07T08:51:00.000-08:00

Runners rounding a corner between mile 19 and 20.

2008 Los Angeles Marathon

2008-03-04T05:54:00.000-08:00

For the first time in I think in 7 years Tanya and I did not run the Los Angeles Marathon. Instead we acted as spectators and cheered the ocean of people living their marathon dreams. LA was my first marathon,it does hold a special place, but I thought it was time to step back and watch. It was a rare treat to be able stand on the sidelines and watch others run. To see the elite athletes motoring by at such a blistering pace was incredible.

LA has the "Challenge" of sorts. The elite females start before the elite males, and the men have to try and catch them. I don't like the idea, but it is a nice payday for the overall winner $100,000. The goal of the organizers is to create faster times by making the men chase the women. I don't think it has worked yet!

Man these brothers can run!! not that it is unusual at the major city marathons; but 7 out of the first 10 finishers were Kenyan! WOW! Standing and watching them cruise by was incredible. The ease at which these men and women are able to cover 26.2 miles just blows me away. I have learned to love to run, but these athletes were born to run!!

It was great to see so many of our friends out there having a ball. In the crowd we saw Ultra friends Andy K., Alex S, Jorge P,Maria L, Dirty Girl XY, Fred P, Deb. It was great seeing them all, but I was blown away when I saw Gary H. who less than a year ago was fighting for his life after being in a motorcycle accident. Gary you are the man! Just read his bib "One Kidney".

Bernadette K. what can you say. This was Bernadette's 5th time finishing the Los Angeles Marathon. She is an inspiration; so many people sit back and say that is crazy I could never do a marathon. Not Bernadette, she wants to challenge her human spirit and rise to new heights. Way to go Berni!

Also a BIG Congratulations to first time marathon finisher Jason S. You got it done brother!

French Ultra runner Serge Girade

2008-02-27T06:23:00.000-08:00

I saw this video at another site, and had to share it with those who visit our site. Incredible, absolutely incredible. This man has run across continents!

Hope you enjoyed it!
MJ

MARATHON RUNNERS TAKE IBUPROFEN TO AVOID HURT, END UP HURTING

2008-02-26T06:06:00.000-08:00

While surfing the net I came across this May, 2005 article. The subject I thought was important to share. To often I hear stories of runners popping ibuprofen before, during and after racing and training. I have to many times seen the bloody urine on the trail due to their over use, and the horror stories of runners going into renal failure after races. Ibuprofen and dehydration, a deadly combination.

(PRLEAP.COM) At the recent Boston Marathon, runners could be seen ingesting large quantities of ibuprofen in the starting area. In fact, scientific research reveals that up to 75 percent of marathoners routinely take anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen before the race and prior to long workouts. The reason for this high rate of use is that many runners believe that ibuprofen reduces the risk of muscle cramping, minimizes discomfort during exertion, and also tones down post-effort inflammation.Research in this area tells a far different story, however. Basically, scientific investigations have suggested that ibuprofen may have a negative effect on the cells which repair bone and muscles after strenuous efforts. The research also reveals that pre-exertion ingestion of ibuprofen does not thwart post-exertion inflammation, and that in fact muscles and tendons often recover more quickly from strenuous exercise when placebo is given to subjects, instead of ibuprofen! Furthermore, ibuprofen is linked with gastro-intestinal dysfunction during exercise; instead of lowering the likelihood of muscle cramping, ibuprofen may actually hike the chances of stomach and intestinal cramps, as well as diarrhea. Importantly, ibuprofen seems to lower protein-synthesis rates in muscles after intense exercise, an effect which would certainly retard recovery.The bottom lines? Endurance athletes are misusing ibuprofen, a drug which has a much-greater "down" than "up" side when taken before exercise.
In my opinion "just don't do it". If it hurts that much to run, maybe you need to make some changes. Try different shoes, cross training, strength training, but stay away from the drugs.
MJ

Lost Dutchman Marathon Race Report

2008-02-20T07:19:00.001-08:00

Last Saturday morning Tanya and I rose before the sun to drive out to Apache Junction, AZ to run the Lost Dutchman Marathon. Until to a few months ago we had never heard of the Lost Dutchman. We found out about this race through the National Black Marathoners Association( NBMA). This event was going to be the site of the groups annual get together marathon. Since this was their first year at a relatively close event to the West side of the country, we decided to drive out. We arrived at the multi- generational center in Apache Junction around 11:30am. Runners World has rated the "The Lost Dutchman Marathon" in the top 10 small town marathons. The hospitality was evident and the community was very involved. After picking up our race packets, we had the opportunity to meet Tony Reed. Tony Reed is the president of the NBMA and is the only African American to run a marathon on all 7 continents. We then meet other members of the NBMA one being a fellow and accomplished ultra-runner Fred Davis. It was also a pleasure to meet Maurice who will be stepping up to the 50 mile distance later this year. After chatting with others, Tanya and I decided to go out for a drive and look at the landscape.

Thestart of the race begins in the Superstitious mountains. They actually bus you to the start and the course runs back to the city of Apache Junction (a point to point course). The marathon is not advertised as a trail marathon, but the first 8 miles are on trail and then later in the race another 2-3 miles of trail. Hey, running trails are what Tanya and I love best, we were excited. But should we wear trail shoes or road shoes? We decided on road shoes.
I thought the landscape was incredible, the Arizona desert is so alive and full of plants and wildlife. I knew the mountains and the beauty of the desert was going to make for a great place to run in the morning.

Tanya usually prepares all of our meals, even when we travel to races. But we decided to attend the pasta dinner being offered by the race. I see why Tanya prepares our meals, the food was less than spectacular, but I tried to think of it as only fuel for tomorrows run. When I say the pasta was over cooked, I mean it was over cooked! I guess the pasta dinner host didn't realise people are running a marathon tomorrow, and would like to get to bed early. I felt like I was at a persons house who did not get much company, and they were doing everything in there power to keep you there. Games, Games, Games, what the hell is going on, I need to sleep Man! I guess I would have had fun if I was a kindergartner. 8:30pm finally out! Time to get some sleep and be up by 4:00am to catch the first bus up to the start.

Morning came quickly, but we comment to each other that we slept well, and felt rested. Eat breakfast, and get mentally focused to rock and roll. Though we had only run the Rocky Raccoon 100 mile endurance run 2 weeks ago, we wanted to push the limit today and see what our bodies had. Tanya had actually run a 1/2 marathon the week previously and placed 1st in her age, so she was primed to see if she could run a sub 4. Neither of us had run a marathon distance race in quite a while. My recovery had been good from the 100 miler, so I also wanted to see what was in the ol' tank and see if I could also push a sub 4.

When we arrived at the parking area to catch the bus to the start, we where surprised at how warm it already was. The ride took about 30 minutes to get to the start. What a nice setting, the backdrop was incredible. Mountains, huge cactus, and the race organisers had mesquite fires burning to keep the runners warm. Which we thought was a nice gesture, but the smoke was a bit overwhelming, just what our lungs needed before running a marathon. So we found some chairs away from the smoke and just relaxed and enjoyed the cool morning and the surroundings. At 6:40 Tanya and I began our warm up, which consisted of us taking an easy jog back and forth on a side trail to the start line. During Ultras the first few miles serve well as a warm up, but in a marathon when going for time you need every minute. So its best to warm-up as close to the start of the race as you can. Like in boxing you want to break into a good sweat.

As we headed to the starting line, we gave each other a kiss, and planned on not seeing each other until the finish. We decided to run our own race, and not worry about the other.
Race Time:

The sun was beginning to brighten the landscape as the starting gun was fired (BAM!) and we were off. It felt good to be running lite, I usually carry a hydration pack or carry water bottles in my hands. But today nothing but a few gels to keep me rolling, and hopefully enough of them.

The course had overall loss in elevation, which I felt lended it self to possibly running a fast race. The first 6 miles were on trail and I felt very comfortable, I knocked off mile one in a 9:08 pace. To run what I wanted a 3:55 I would have to average a 9:00 min pace. The pace felt so easy, the air was so clean and temperature was just right. For the first four miles I stayed right on 9:00 minute miles.

During the 5th mile I saw two runners ahead of me who I had recognised from dinner. They looked like they had a good pace going so I ran next to them and introduced myself. John was a marathon veteran with over 120 marathon finishes, and Lissa was a marathon newbie, this was her first. We began sharing stories and settled into a nice pace, pulling the next three miles off in 8:37's. As we approached mile eight we ran into Tanya, I introduced her to them. I walked through a water stop and then lost those three as they pulled ahead. Back on my own.

We had just made the transition from the trail to the road, and where heading up a slight incline, when I decide it was time to make a pit stop (pee break). I stepped to the bushes to do my business, but when I started to run again my left lateral knee began to lock up. It was the weirdest thing. It just did not have any strength, and it hurt a bit too. So I started walking, and even that felt uncomfortable, I began to glide and with in a 1/4 mile the feeling went away (whew). My pace slowed to a 9:00 min pace. The way I was feeling knew I needed calories. But I only had 2 gels, I downed one and just prayed they had more on the course.

The next couple of miles I was able to keep the pace up and steady, but if I tried to surge my knee just felt unstable. I needed calories bad. I believe the 11 mile aid station the volunteers were handing our gels. Thank you! I took 4 ate 2 and shoved the other 2 into my pocket.

New man! my energy came back and my pace quickened. For the next seven miles I felt good, I felt strong. Though I had accidentally stopped my watch for about 2 miles, and didn't know my exact elapsed time I still felt a sub 4 was possible. But then at mile 18, I felt a quick and sharp pulse high in my left glute that stopped me in my tracks. It was not painful, I just felt as if I had lost control of my left leg. Every time I put pressure on my left leg it felt like it wanted to give out. It caused me to limp. My mind was buzzing, had I run to hard only 2 weeks out from a 100 miler, had I torn a muscle, what was it? For the next mile I tried to feel and work this unusual feeling out. I changed my gait, and then as quickly as it came it was gone.

Mile 23 almost home, by this time I had made up a little time and caught up to Lissa. She was feeling it but still looked strong. There was a short steep hill at this point called "The Wall" they actually had a fake brick wall at the top that we ran through. Symbolizing just that "hitting and running through the WALL"!!! Lissa and I ran up the wall together, I gave her some words of encouragement; but I was feeling strong and slowly pulled away from her.

The last 3.2 miles where a blurr, I pulled everything together and focused on maintaining a 9:00 minute mile pace. I just wanted to get to the finish line. Keep moving, Keep moving, Keep moving. I turned the corner and there it was push it, push it, push it.

There ahead of me was the official clock, Run through the finish! I had come up short 4:07:07. I had run harder today than I had run in a while, though I didn't go under 4 hours, I was extremely pleased with my time. I learned how much more I have in my tank, and how much faster I can run. Tanya was at the finish line to greet me. She had also run a good run she went under the 4 hour barrier with a finishing time of 3:54 and finished 3rd in her age group.

Tanya and I had a great experience meeting and running with the NBMA members, and we look forward to seeing them and all the others who love this incredible sport of running.

Be safe out there, and run "FOR the HEALTH of IT".
I love riding off into the sunset!

MJ

Lost Dutchman Marathon

2008-02-18T17:55:00.000-08:00

Tanya is on a tear 3; straight weeks 3 straight races. We ran the Lost Dutchman Marathon yesterday in Apache Juction AZ. Tanya ran 3:54:30 and placed 3rd in her age group. You Keep going Girl!!
Race Report to Follow.
MJ