A Journey of Many Steps

A Layover in the Journey

2010-03-21T14:42:00.002-04:00

After about 400 days away, I find myself coming back to my blog a little sheepish but back none the less.

I would love to have some fabulous story about why the long absence - but the truth is that I just walked away from the whole fitness lifestyle. It doesn't make sense when I think about what I have seen happen in the training for the 2 half marathons. I guess that we all do things for reasons that even we can't understand looking back.

I guess that when I think about it - the reason that I have returned comes down to family health. Over the last several months, we have been on journey as an extended family that we didn't think we would be on. Without going into details, I feel that I have been given a glimpse into a possible future of mine if changes are not made. So drastic changes are being made. That's why I am back here.

I don't think that I will be attempting either the half or full marathon this year. I don't believe that my body is ready for that. I will be returning to walking at lunch and will be returning to strength training over the next few weeks. My diet is also undergoing some changes. Last fall I had some blood work done which came back for the most part OK. Of course there were some issues that concerned my doctor.

He told me that several factors in my life point to something called metabolic syndrome or Syndrome X. If you know me, then you know that it drives me crazy that everything in life has to be caused by a "syndrome" and be labeled as such. This condition makes me prone to heart disease and other bad things. His recommendation was that the easiest thing I could do to effect this would be to change my diet. He suggested what would be like a diabetic diet that limited the amount of carbs in the diet. After trying both the TNT Diet and the Zone Diet, both are good but weren't a good fit for me - I am trying the Paleo Diet. Very similar to both the other diets but this one looks like one for me.

I will be posting my starting stats tomorrow.

February 12, 2009 - Let the games begin

2009-02-12T11:15:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was probably one of the nicest days going by temperature in a long time. The January thaw has come to Central Ohio a little late. The snow is gone and I felt the pull to get out to the park at lunch to get a walk in. Great time!!!

Did a 2 mile walk in about 37 minutes. A pretty good start to the season.

I have decided to make another go at the Columbus Marathon in October. I am hoping that this year I can stay away from the injuries that plagued me last year. My official training will begin March 2nd. I can't wait to begin.

Season's Greetings - December 9, 2008

2008-12-08T20:00:00.006-05:00

Please allow me to be one of the first people to wish you a very Merry Christmas and my best wishes for a Happy New Year!!!!!

Not much has gone on since the half marathon. I got the low down from my doctor as to the possible reason for my passing out after the race. He told me that it was probably due to the level of sodium in my blood. Either too high or too low and you can find yourself on the deck. He said that there had probably been at least 2-3 folks that had passed out at the race by the time I crossed the finish line. Volumes of studies have been conducted to try to determine what the optimum sodium level is. He did an EKG test just to be sure and everything was fine.

In my previous post, I promised the link to my marathon photos. Click here to see the photos. You will need to enter my last name and my bib# (32).

Since then, I have pretty much taken a break from the training. I am still not sure how much I will train during the winter - walking wise. I do plan on continuing to incorporate the core training into my schedule.

I will once again be involved with an online forum "holiday mini challenge" that starts today. I will attempt to post here how that is coming along. I would like to get my diet back under some semblance of control. I liked the results that I got from the TNT Diet. I was not too thrilled with how I felt cutting out the breads and starches. So, I will be going with a modified TNT diet. I will be cutting the carbs back to about 20% of total calories and see how it goes from there. I would like to see if I can cut that percentage back some more. For the resistance training I will be working on the core training and doing some body weight exercises from Turbulence Training.

I hope that you and your family have a wonderful holiday season.

Rehab Report - October 21, 2008

2008-10-21T14:13:00.002-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 668 days
2009 Columbus Marathon training window - 361 days

Good afternoon everyone!

I just wanted to pop in and let everyone know how the body is responding after Sunday. I am happy to say that my muscles are, for the most part, now speaking to me again. My shoulders and back are 100%, my feet still have some sore spots - but none of the blisters of last year (yeah!!!). The calves are getting better every day. Yesterday, I looked like a very old man as I was forced to take very small, shuffling steps. Especially after sitting for any time. I am walking much better today and I can do some light stretching of the calves without the burning pain. My head is also doing better. Shaving the head today was not as painful as yesterday.

All in all, I am impressed by how quickly this wonderful body we have been given by God can repair itself. I am also glad that I took the last two days off from work to recuperate.

I have not been notified that the pictures are available but I will provide a link to any shots that they took once I get it.

The 2008 Columbus Half Marathon Report - Oct. 19, 2008

2008-10-19T22:13:00.001-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 670 days
Columbus Half Marathon Race Day

The 2008 Columbus Marathon and ½ Marathon is now in the record books. It was a chilly 39° at the starting line at Broad and Third Street. The gun went off at 7:30AM and the sold out field of 11,000 runners and walkers began their journeys. I was with the other walkers at the back of the pack. We slowly moved forward and crossed the starting line at about 7:40.

The first 5 miles went pretty well and I was impressed with my times. They were around the 16:45 mark. The sun began to come up and it slowly began to warm up. At around the half way mark, things began to unravel. The hip pain that I had been experiencing earlier in the summer started to rear its ugly head. By mile 8, I began to notice that my calf muscles were beginning to cramp up. I would have to stop about once or twice a mile to stretch all the way to the finish line.

The high point of the race (other than hitting the finish line) was making the turn from Schiller Park on to High Street. This was at about mile 11. At that point, I knew that I was going to make it. According to my watch, my final time was 3:54:23. The official chip time was 3:54:28. Here are my split times for the course: 1- 16:54, 2- 16:26, 3- 16:14, 4- 16:27, 5- 16:17, 6- 16:43, 7- 17:37, 8- 18:16, 9- 18:28, 10- 19:47, 11- 19:37, 12- 20:32 and 13 to finish line- 21:09.

Yesterday, I wrote that I would finish the race and that I would like to do it in less than 4 hours. Both accomplished. I also knew at that time that there would be a price to pay. My body hurts – hurts all over. Calves, thighs, hips, feet, shoulders and back muscles are all letting me know that they didn’t enjoy what I put them through. I wanted to complete this half marathon for many reasons but the most important one for me was to know that what little training I was able to do was not for nothing. I have my second half marathon under my belt and the poster frame picture I hang in my office about this race will be a constant reminder that sometimes dreams come with a struggle. As the quote in my office says….

“Endurance is not just the ability to bear a hard thing, but to turn it into glory.” William Barclay

I take this race and the struggles and know that God gets the glory for it. He alone gave me the strength to continue when my body screamed stop. My aches and pains will go away in a day or so – but I leave this training season knowing that He will always be my training partner.

Pre Race Post - October 18, 2008

2008-10-18T21:09:00.001-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 671 days
Columbus Half Marathon training window - 1 day

Well it’s been a while since I popped in and wrote about what has been going on. It is now about 11 hours until the Columbus marathon. I would like to be able to say that I am confident looking forward to tomorrow. I can’t really say that.

I believe that my last post mentioned that I was going to see the physical medicine doctor. He listened to my symptoms and ran a few checks and tests. He pronounced that my circulation in my legs was good as was my reflexes. He did say that he believed (with about 95% certainty) that my problem was related to a degenerative disk disorder. He let me know that almost everyone has it in some shape or form. Good news – I don’t need surgery. Bad news – there is nothing that they can do. I was told that I can help lessen the symptoms by losing weight and doing more core exercises. I continued my training but there wasn’t much time left.

Now I stand looking at the race tomorrow. I believe that I will complete the half marathon. I would like to finish in under 4 hours but at this point I will be glad to finish.

I will post tomorrow once I am back home. It should be a good race. The weather calls for sunny skies. The temperatures will be in the 30’s at around the starting time – 7:30AM. It should begin to warm up some. The high temp should be in the 60’s.

See ya tomorrow!!!!

DLF >>> DNF >>>> DNS

Return of the Healthy Sick man

2008-08-22T10:22:00.001-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 678 days
Columbus Half Marathon training window - 58 days

After a very long hiatus, I am back. My absence has been due to my journey over the last few weeks to attempt to explain my running out of “steam” early in my walks. I have had a stress test (results came back OK) and have had a complete blood workup done (also came back clean). My doctor is at his wits end to explain it. He wants me to see a “Physical Medicine” doctor to see what they say.

The entire process has moved me from being concerned to now I am just pissed off. So Tuesday of this week I hit the trails at Creekside and for the first time in weeks – did the 3 miles without any problems. I followed that performance with repeats on Wednesday and yesterday. Times have gotten better and better with each walk !!!

I was at one point ready to throw in the towel for even doing the half marathon in October. Now I am at the point that I want to see how my mileage does this weekend to see if I can salvage my plans. If I can hit 4 miles this weekend with no return of the symptoms, I believe that I can still do the race. I am under no delusion that I can come close to my time from last year. After the train wreck that this spring/summer training has been, all I really want to do is finish the course.

I have several motivational quotes in my office at work. Right now there are 2 that are on the white board that I look at everyday. I placed them there back in March – before beginning training for the Marathon. They are even more appropriate now.

“He who conquers others is strong; he who conquers himself is mighty” Lao Tzu

“Endurance is not just the ability to bear a hard thing, but to turn it into glory.” William Barclay

Training Log - July 14, 2008

2008-07-14T13:09:00.001-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 717 days
Columbus Half Marathon training window - 97 days

Without trying to make this year’s training into a greek tragedy, I have to report the latest bump in my road to the Columbus marathon. I mentioned in my last post about losing steam towards the end of my walk. This has continued throughout the walks since. This caused me to visit my MD again to see what he thought. He ruled out the HBP med that he has me on since it does not work with the cardio-vascular system. He was left with either A: my heart rate and BP drop during exercise for some reason or B – due to my sparse training this year, I am experiencing de-conditioning. The only way to check on option A is to do a stress test (I am scheduled for one on 7/28) and monitor heart rate and BP on a treadmill. My hope is that this will come back OK and it is just option B.

Regardless of the outcome of this situation, I have come to the realization that the Columbus Marathon is no longer feasible for me. I sent an e-mail to the registration folks at the marathon and have asked that they switch my registration to the Half Marathon. With 14 weeks to go, I had fallen too far behind my training to catch up without running the risk of injury. My current mileage is in line with where I would be in a half marathon schedule.

I did 3 miles at Antrim Park on Sunday in 54:00 minutes and an average pace of 18 min/mile. The “loss of steam” hit at about 27 min but I decided to continue and hit the 3 miles. Not a pretty last mile. Split times were: 1) 17:40, 2) 17:10 and 3) 19:10.

Training Report - July 1, 2008

2008-07-01T13:25:00.002-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 730 days
Columbus Marathon training window - 110 days

With little fanfare, I return to the world of the blogs. I know that there was great excitement when my therapy was completed and I thought that I would be getting back to the training for the Columbus Marathon. Well …….. as fate would have it – the training would have to wait a little while longer. The week that I cleared therapy I ran into another bump in the road. Without going into great detail, I ended up with 5 stitches in my leg and put off training until now.

I am back at it.

Sunday was my first real attempt to get back on the training schedule. I was at Antrim Park and did 2 miles in 35:29 with a pace of 17:45. It was nice to be there but the weather looked like it was going to cut loose with a nasty storm so I cut my day short.

Today, I was at Creekside and it was wonderful. The temp was in the mid 70’s and there was a slight breeze. I did 3 miles in 54:47 and a pace of 18:16. Not the best but much better than what I was doing a couple of months ago. I started to lose steam towards the end of the second mile and noticed that my feet are not used to the distance. I am sure that both of these things will ease with time and training.

I did find the following online today and wanted to share it with you (I’m amazed how many of these I can relate to!)

26.2 Ways You Know You Are a Runner/Walker
1. You know how many miles there are in a marathon.
2. Your weekly mileage is how much you run, not your commute to work.
3. You know how many miles you get out of a pair of running shoes.
4. You can convert Kilometers to Miles in your head.
5. You measure your running route in your car to get the exact mileage.
6. When someone tells you their age, you automatically know their Boston qualifying time.
7. You know Grandma's as the route from Two Harbors to Duluth, not the person.
8. You can drink, blow your nose and pee on the run.
9. The problem with the treadmill is there's no place to spit.
10. You have less than ten toenails and that's normal for you.
11. Body Glide is your friend.
12. Ibuprofen is affectionately known as "Vitamin I".
13. Navigating casual walkers, dogs and baby strollers annoys you because it interrupts your pace.
14. When you participate in an organized event, you know not to run in your race t-shirt.
15. You have a favorite energy gel and flavor.
16. The "Picasso" above your fireplace is last year's TCM poster.
17. You have pre and post race rituals.
18. The journal you keep is in miles and pace not feelings or thoughts.
19. When you look at the weather conditions, you calculate how many layers to wear.
20. The pride you feel after a good run is worth the pain it took to get there.
21. You have more t-shirts than you could possibly wear.
22. When you hear the word "bib", you think of race numbers not babies and Gerber food.
23. The "no carbohydrate diet" does not apply to you.
24. You know that Fartlek is not vulgar terminology.
25. A hill is an opportunity just waiting to be challenged.
26. You know the phrase "you're almost there" only applies when the finish line is in sight.
.2 Your vacation destination is determined by your race schedule.

Graduation Day - June 6, 2008

2008-06-06T14:42:00.002-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 785 days
Columbus Marathon training window - 135 days

Great news again today !!!!!

I have “graduated” from my physical therapy sessions. I have shown enough improvement that Brian feels that I can continue the exercises at home. I thought that today would just be a consultation like session – boy was I wrong. No, he handed me off to the athletic trainer for my workout. I thought that they felt that this was their last chance to kill me off and they didn’t want to miss out. It was a beast of a work out. The trainer ran me through my exercises but changed up the order and added sets to some others. I felt “great” at the end. Truthfully, I will miss going to the sessions. They have done what they told me could be done – if I followed their directions.

Marathon training here I come!

Training/Rehab Update - June 3, 2008

2008-06-03T13:16:00.002-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 788 days
Columbus Marathon training window - 138 days

NEWS FLASH >>>> NEWS FLASH >>>> NEWS FLASH

Just got back from my training walk at Creekside. Completed 3 miles with a time of 57:24 and a pace of 19:08 !!!!!! Not the greatest times but once again quite a psychological boost. I did finish with some pain in my hip but the pain was gone within about 10 min. and I am now walking around – no pain present.

My split times were: 1) 19:59, 2) 18:48 and 3) 18:37. About a mile into the walk, I was feeling some soreness in the hip but then it went away and I was able to do the rest of the walk at a pace that is closer to my usual pace. This is what I needed!

Rehab Update - June 2, 2008

2008-06-02T10:11:00.001-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 789 days
Columbus Marathon training window - 139 days

Haven’t been in here for quite a while so I thought that I would bring everyone up to speed.

Since my last entry, I was seen by Brian - another PT at Banyan Tree. He did some additional testing and determined that my left hip was rotated forward. This is probably causing pressure on the nerve in my lower back and has caused my left leg to be a little longer than the right leg. He was able to manipulate my hip back into the correct position. He said that we will concentrate on my core muscles because they will help to hold my hip in the correct position. I haven’t done so much exercising with my stomach muscles in a very long time (I guess that was no surprise to him).

The physical therapy has come along very well. I was supposed to have 3 sessions this week but was told last week by the PT that I would only have to come in on Friday. This was as long as I was able to do some walks without the hip pain over this last weekend and this week. I am amazed that the hip has recovered as fast as it has. I am still doing at home the stretches and the exercises that they have taught me.

Yesterday, I took another try at Antrim Park. Throughout the morning, I felt some pain in my lower back but did some stretches before leaving. That seemed to help. I decided that I was not going to time myself – as I just wanted to get back into the saddle again. It was just a leisurely Sunday walk in the park. I did look at my watch at the 1 mile mark to see how long it took (I couldn’t help myself!!!). It took me around 20 minutes to go 1 mile. I decided at the end of the loop that I would end there. There was a tightness in my hip that was starting to become more noticeable. Best not to push too hard too soon.

While 20 minutes is not my best time, it was great to get back to the park. A psychological victory and one that I needed. I was starting to think that the marathon goal was going to have to wait.

I will be walking again on Tuesday – per my training plan- and will see how that goes. After that, Friday will see if I have to continue the therapy. I will say that I will miss it in some ways.

Injury Update - May 16, 2008

2008-05-16T09:27:00.001-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 807 days
Columbus Marathon training window - 156 days

Just wanted to bring everyone up to speed on my training and an update on my injury. The last time that I walked was the Sunday that I reported on in my last post. Since then, I have been back to my doctor. Since the anti-inflammatory meds didn't make much improvement to my situation, he wanted me to have x-rays taken of my hip and lower back to rule out bone problems. The results came back on Tuesday (5/13) with nothing showing except some slight arthritis. He didn't believe that this would cause the problems. The next step would be to get some physical therapy.

Yesterday was my initial assessment at Banyan Tree Rehabilitation. It went well. The end result of the meeting with the PT was that my hip flexors and hamstrings are tight and that I will need to start on some stretching to loosen them up. After that, exercises to strengthen my core muscles. The PT believes that I should see a marked improvement in about 3 weeks if I follow their instructions.

Trainng Log - May 5, 2008- One Step Forward - Two Steps Back

2008-05-05T10:18:00.002-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 818 days
Columbus Marathon training window - 167 days

Well, the end of last week brought about a slight setback on the walking front. My Thursday walk at Creekside was about the same as the previous day. The temperature was better at about 66 degrees and the sun was out in force. I was able to finish the 3 miles but the final half mile was at a much slower pace and with the hip pain once again. My time was 57:43 and my pace was 19:14.

I was hoping that Sunday would be a better walk. I woke with some of the same hip pain that I have had before – not a good sign. Once again, it was a beautiful day with temps in the 70’s and sunshine. Antrim park was packed with folks out riding on the bike trail and those walking on the trail. I had to park about a third of a mile from the trail. The first 2 miles were OK (18:22 and 17:33) and I felt good heading into the third mile. By the time I hit mile 3, my time was 19:02 and I was in pain. It was a foregone conclusion that there would not be a fourth mile. My problem at that time was that I was on the far side of the lake and it was 0.6 miles to the trail exit. After that, there was the 0.33 mile walk to the car. By the time I got to the car, I was limping pretty well. Not sure what the doctor is going to say about this.

Training Log - April 29, 2008

2008-04-29T14:53:00.002-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 824 days
Columbus Marathon training window - 173 days

My recovery continues...... I was able to get a walk in on Saturday and was able to walk today at Creekside.

Saturday was my 3 miler at Antrim. It was nice to get back to that park again. The weather was not as good as it has been over the last few days. It was around 65 and began to drizzle as I began my first lap around the lake. I was able to finish the 3 miles without discomfort in 52:34 and a pace of 17:31 min/mile. I was elated to be able to get the distance in. The rest of the weekend was quite busy. Saturday afternoon was my niece's first birthday!! Not that Rebecca or Riley will remember it - but it was a great party with about 50 people showing up. Sunday was their baby dedication/baptism. I was asked to stand as Riley's godfather. An honor. It was also my brother's 40th birthday so we had lunch at their home.

Today I was excited to get another 3 miler in on the heels of the weekend. The walk started good - but I was only able to get 2.75 miles in before my hip started hurting again. Kind of a let down but I came close to hitting the goal. My time was 46:45 and a pace time of 17:00 min/mile. Now that I am back at work, the hip is not hurting so I think that I will be OK.

Training Log - April 24, 2008 The Road to Recovery

2008-04-24T13:21:00.002-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 828 days
Columbus Marathon training window - 178 days

Today was another beautiful day here in Central Ohio. The picture perfect Spring day. It was made even better by the fact that I have not had any hip discomfort today.

I was eager to get to the park and see how well it went. I was able to do 2 miles with very little discomfort. I had plans to try to do 3 miles but decided not to try to push it. My time was 36:13 with a pace of 18:06. Not quite back to my usual pace but better than the 19-20 min paces for the last few outings. Will set myself the goal of 3 miles with a pace no greater than 18:10 min/mile for my walk on Saturday.

Training Update - April 22, 2008 - Let the Healing Begin

2008-04-22T13:04:00.005-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 830 days
Columbus Marathon training window - 180 days

I can't believe that it has been over 2 weeks since my last post.

Here's the catch-up for you. I mentioned in my last post that my left hip had been bothering me. I thought that it was a tight IT band. Wrong. I continued to try to train but was not able to do anything beyond about a mile and a half before the pain began. Ended up not walking in the Dam Fool 4 Miler on Sunday because I couldn't see attempting a four mile race if I couldn't get beyond 2 miles. I finally decided to call the doctor last week after the pain didn't ease up after my last "training walk" on the 15th.

I went today and he believes that I have a pinched nerve in my lower back and that is what is causing the problems. I am now on anti-inflammatory meds for the next 2 weeks. He wants me to continue to walk until the pain hits but not to try to walk through it. He hopes that with the meds - I will be able to gradually add more distance in the next weeks. If not and the pain continues, he said that imaging might be necessary to see what is going on.

So today I hit Creekside park for the first time in over a week. It was a beautiful day - sunny skies with temps in the 70's. I was able to do about a mile with some discomfort. The hip still has some aches even now. We'll have to see what happens over the next week.

An update to Run Happy 5K

2008-04-07T08:58:00.002-04:00

Just a little update to my results from the Run Happy 5K. I went to the mailbox on Saturday and there was a package from Run Wild Racing waiting for me. I opened it and found an award plaque for placing third in the race for the men's walking division. When I checked the results online, I was surprised to see that I was listed as third. Last weekend I was shown as placing fourth in the division. Not sure what happened -- but I'll take a third place finish!!

Started doing some stretching of the IT band and have noticed that the soreness is beginning to lessen. Yeah! I want to get started on the training.

Inspirational VIdeo - Evan Morgan

2008-04-02T12:55:00.004-04:00

I was sent this link by my brother Mike. Evan is the cousin of Mike's wife Patty. His is an awesome story - I hope that you are as inspired by it as I am.

This story comes from KGET 17 in Bakersfield, CA.

I have added a link to the Challenged Athletes Foundation in my links area.

Training Log Update - April 2, 2008

2008-04-02T12:50:00.004-04:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 850 days
Columbus Marathon training window - 200 days

The start of a new month also brings the start of my 28 week training program for the Columbus Marathon. Unfortunately, it didn't begin with the strongest of starts. Instead of the 3 mile walk yesterday, I was able to complete only a little over 1 mile. I have been dealing with hip pain for the last 2 weeks off an on. It really came back on the walk. Not sure if the problem is a tight IT band or what. Decided to ease off this week and concentrate on doing some stretching and see if that helps.

Completed the Run Happy 5K on Saturday with a time of 52:46. Not the best but not too far off from where I should be. Look forward to getting into the training stride.

Training Log Update - March 12, 2008

2008-03-12T10:45:00.002-04:00

Been a few days since my last post so I thought that I would get caught up on the blog. I am finding that winter training is not the easiest thing to do - - especially if you are planning to train outdoors. Lately, if it isn't the rain causing the Big Walnut Creek to flood it is the snow/blizzard making walking a little dicey.

I was able to get a walk in last Thursday at Creekside. The creek was flooded so most of the path that I walk was not accessible. I was able to use a .2 mile stretch and went back and forth and did 2 miles. My time was 33:10 with a pace of 16:35. Splits were 16:44 and 16:27.

I was able to get to Creekside yesterday after enough of the 20" snowfall we got on Saturday had melted from the path. I was able to do 2.1 miles with a time of 34:56 and a pace of 16:38. Splits were 19:07 for the first 1.1 miles and 15:49 for the last mile.

I am planning on getting a 3 miler in tomorrow as I get ready for the Run Happy 5K on the 29th and the start of my training program for the 2008 Columbus Marathon.

Everyone's Doing It

2008-03-07T07:59:00.002-05:00

This was in the BBC news:

Man, 101, to run London Marathon

A 101-year-old man has his sights on the London Marathon in a bid to become the world's oldest competitive runner.

Working plumber Buster Martin ran Sunday's Roding Valley half marathon in Essex in five hours 13 minutes, and is now focusing on London's 26-mile event.

On finishing the run, the first words of the ex-member of rock band The Zimmers were: "Where's my beer?"

Mr Martin, who has 17 children, started work at Pimlico Plumbers in London three years ago because he was bored.

He drank a tankard of ale before signing autographs and chatting to fans near the finish line of the Essex race.

'A revelation'

Charlie Mullins, managing director of Pimlico Plumbers, said he was "amazed" when Mr Martin appeared at work on Monday morning after his exertions.

He said: "I was amazed and delighted, he turned up on time and set to work polishing the vans. He's a revelation."

Mr Martin's trainer is marathon enthusiast Harmander Singh, who helped Fauja Singh, 96, break the London marathon record for the over-90s.

Buster, who lives in London, made headlines last year when he signed up as an agony uncle for men's magazine FHM, offering guidance to a younger generation.

He also found fame when The Zimmers, who had a combined age of more than 3,000 years, scored a hit single last year with a cover of The Who's My Generation.

Training Log - March 3, 2008

2008-03-04T13:25:00.005-05:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 879 days

Good afternoon everyone! While it is a very soggy day here in Central Ohio today, yesterday was a beautiful day. A great day to be out on the trails of Creekside Park at lunch. And that is exactly where I was yesterday.

The temp was around 65 degrees and quite windy. I decided that because I haven't been able to get to the park to walk since February 6th that I would only do 2 miles for this week's walks. I completed the walk in 36:09 with a pace of 18:04. It was good to get out again .... I can't wait until its that temp on a regular basis!

I did get a little encouragement for my training for the Columbus Marathon. It came in the form of a phone conversation with an end user at another building. He stated while we were working thru a computer issue that he heard that I ran. I replied that I didn't run but instead walked and did many 5K's and other races and did the half marathon. His response was along the lines of "oh you just walk ........ well that's better than doing nothing" ?!?! I checked the results from the Columbus Half and Full Marathon for 2007 and did not find his name listed there. I also forgot to inform him that even though I was "only walking" I finished ahead of 286 others including 3 runners. Oh, well. I'm sure that he would have a good excuse to counter with.

Race Report - February 19, 2008

2008-02-19T13:56:00.003-05:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 893 days

Here is the report from the "Last Chance for Boston" 5K on Sunday. The weather that was being forecast for the weekend didn't really materialize. It was about 38 degrees when I got to the race area in Dublin. There was off and on light rain that became more steady the closer it got to race time.

Thankfully, it eased off just before the race began. There were about 430 folks racing in the 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Marathon. The 5k and half marathon groups (202 people) started at the same point. Once the horn went off, something became very clear. I was the only walker in my group. About the time that I got beyond the quarter mile mark, the rest of the 5K and half group lapped me. I heard the thundering footsteps of the 10K and marathoners a few minutes later. This was the way it went for the entire race. I was constantly being passed. For the most part, I tried to stay out of the way. I did have 2 racers compliment me and give me words of encouragement.

My official time was 52:08. My pace was 16:46. I DLF'ed (Dead Last Finish)the race as I expected. What did come as a surprise, was that there was only 34 people in the 5K. Awards were to be given to the top 20 men and women. I finished 18th out of 18 men in the 5K so I will be receiving a plaque for this. This reminds me of what happened last year with the "Dam Fool 4 Miler". I DLF'ed that as well but was the only male walker in the race - so I took 1st place in the male walkers. I received a gift certificate to a local restaurant. Being rewarded for DLF'ing is not right ----- but I'll take it anyways!!!!!

On to the next race. It will be the "Run Happy 5K" at the end of March. After that, the training will begin for the Columbus Marathon.

Nothing to do with training

2008-02-15T09:56:00.002-05:00

This has nothing to do with my training except that you know I love the movies.....

Inspirational Video - February 13, 2008

2008-02-13T16:25:00.001-05:00

Forgot this weeks inspirational video. Here it is........

Update - February 13, 2008

2008-02-13T13:06:00.003-05:00

Ironman Louisville training window: 899 days

Hello from chilly Central Ohio. The weather has not been too cooperative over the last few days for walking. After the rains of last week, winter made us remember what time of the year it is. I tried to walk on Monday but was deterred by a wind chill of 12 degrees and a light pole downed across the path. The last two days have been snowy, windy and slushy.

I am hoping that the weather holds over the weekend. I will be doing a 5K in the "Last Chance for Boston" race. This will be an interesting race. It will be held in Dublin, OH and is a 1 mile loop course. Along with the 5K there will be a 10K, Half Marathon and full Marathon going on at the same course. This should be interesting!!!!! Just checked the weather and they are forecasting snow for Sunday morning.

From the Ironman front, I was able to procure lodgings in Louisville for the Saturday and Sunday that I will be there volunteering. I will be staying a few blocks away from the course and the action. I also received the following info in my inbox:

Tune into NBC this Saturday at 2 p.m. EST (check local listings for the time in your area) for the dramatic coverage of the world's toughest one-day endurance competition, the Ford Ironman World Championship from Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

Heading into the 2007 event, much of the pre-race media focused on the anticipated battle between Chris McCormack and his German rivals, Normann Stadler and Faris Al-Sultan. The women's race was also expected to be a close duel as defending champion Michellie Jones and six-time winner Natascha Badmann took on a competitive field. Last year's event also saw the emergence of a number of Kona "rookies," including the 2006 Ford Ironman 70.3 World Champions Samantha McGlone and Craig Alexander, along with Britain's latest Ironman phenom, Chrissie Wellington.

In addition to an exciting professional field, the show profiles some of the inspirational athletes who took part in the race. In 2004 college swim star Brian Boyle was in a car accident that almost took his life. He died eight times on the operating table. Boyle would eventually return to collegiate swimming and take on the challenge of the 2007 Ford Ironman World Championship. Other features include the stories of Scott Rigsby, who arrived in Kona last year hoping to become the first above-the-knee double-amputee to finish the Ironman World Championship, and blind athlete Charlie Plaskon, who competed on behalf of the C Different Foundation.

For nearly three decades, the drama of Ironman has captured the attention of millions around the world. Its compelling stories of ordinary people accomplishing the extraordinary move and inspire television viewers of all ages. Experience Ironman, up close and personal, this Saturday, on NBC.

So if you have some time on Saturday - check it out.

Louisville Here I Come

2008-02-07T10:05:00.000-05:00

Before you ask yourself and then ask me "Is he crazy -- there's no way he's ready!!!", let me explain. I will be going to Louisville at the end of August to help with the Ironman. They need volunteers (1000+) and so I will go. I figure that it will be a great way to experience the event and see what its really like.

I have volunteered to work the Volunteer tent on Saturday afternoon and then to do the Body Marking ( put the race numbers on the participants) very early Sunday morning. I will probably hang around for a little while and then head back to Columbus for the remainder of the Labor Day weekend and my birthday. I am kinda excited about this.

Training Log - February 6, 2008

2008-02-06T13:29:00.000-05:00

Ironman Louisville training window - 906 days

Today's post could be titled "water, water everywhere....". Central Ohio has been getting some heavy steady rains for the last couple of days. This of course brings about the possibility of flooding of creeks, rivers and low lying areas. As it so happens, Creekside Park (notice the name) is prone to flooding. The Big Walnut Creek runs through the park and comes out of the Hoover Reservoir. I was ready to get to the park and find the paths closed as they run under a bridge and flood when the creek rises. Luck was with me today as the path on the side of the creek that I use for most of my walk was open. I could see the other side was closed and was under water.

I knew that the water would be up so I brought along my camera and took some photos. But first my stats. I did get my 3 miles done in a time of 54:17. My pace was 18:06. The weather was 43 degrees with a wind chill of 39 degrees. This would come to play at the end of the walk when I stopped walking and was soaked to the bone.

Here is a sign that I see each time I walk in the park.

This is what the creek looked like today.

Even the ducks got a little calmer area to hang out in.

This is the bridge that crosses the Big Walnut creek. The railings for the bridge are removed to limit damage. The bridge deck is between the debris and the white water.

This looks bad - but it is nothing compared to the January 2005 flood.

Training Report and Inspiration - February 4, 2008

2008-02-04T13:22:00.000-05:00

Louisville Ironman training window - 908 days

Good Monday to everyone! I hope that everyone had a great weekend and didn't overdo it with the Superb**l festivities. I love watching teams that everyone says shouldn't even be in the game take down the supposed best team.

I went out a lunch today and did my 3 miles at Creekside. The weather was OK -- not the 60 degrees of past weeks but not the single digit wind chills of others. It was cloudy with a temp of around 45 degrees. Just right. Got to lose the wool cap and gloves for just a baseball cap and bare hands. Can't wait for spring but this isn't too bad either.

Total time for today was 52:19 with a pace of 17:26 min/mile. Split times were: (1) 17:28, (2) 18:01 and (3) 16:50. Felt good - no problems with the ankle at all.

I also wanted to post this week's video.

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Injury Update

2008-01-29T08:46:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to report that my doctor called me at home last night to let me know that the X-rays showed no fractures or any cartilage damage. He believes that it was simply a bad sprain. Nice to know - now on with the lead up to the training !!!!!!!

Inspirational Video - January 28, 2008

2008-01-28T14:24:00.001-05:00

Saw this last week and wanted to post it then but decided to wait. I showed it to my family and they agreed that this was an excellent video. I hope that you enjoy it too.

Training Log - January 28, 2008

2008-01-28T14:13:00.000-05:00

They say that the road to Hell is paved with good intentions. That's not the road I want to start going down because it is the start of a gradual turning away from my goals. SO ....... today I took a step back on the correct path. That's right -- three weeks after my last walk, I returned to the paths of Creekside Park.

Of course, it's always easier to take that step when it is sunny and 37 degrees rather that cloudy and 20 degrees with a wind chill in the single digits. But I'll take my victories where I can find them.

I decided that since I am coming off the ankle "injury" ( I still haven't heard the results of last week's X-ray!!!) and a 3 week hiatus that I would start with an easy 2 mile walk. The ankle did OK. It is still a little stiff and still aches at times - like now sitting at my desk. I completed the walk in 35:44 with a pace of 17:52 min/mile. The split times were 17:40 for mile 1 and 18:04 for mile 2.

Good Intentions

2008-01-23T09:11:00.000-05:00

Well, I did intend (per my post from Friday) to get back to walking Monday. Forgot that it was a day off from work and the ankle was still iffy. Sounded like a good excuse to me - but as my freshman HS English teacher told us "excuses are crap - only reasons count!". So I set my sights on Tuesday.

Yesterday morning I got a reply to the e-mail that I sent to my Dr. to let him know that the ankle was good to walk on but not so good going down stairs. His reply was to let me know that he wanted it x-rayed. So I spent my lunch plus some at St. Ann's Diagnostic Center. The radiologist will be looking at the shots and will let my Dr. know the results (probably today or tomorrow).

So let's see what today brings. Hopefully, I will be able to post a Training Log for today.

Weekly Video - January 22, 2008

2008-01-22T08:53:00.000-05:00

Thought I would change up a little this week with a funny ad from Dick's with Lance Armstrong. I loved the stream of motivational sayings and Lance's look at the end.

Update - January 16, 2008

2008-01-16T12:55:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to check in. Will be holding off on the training walks for the week. I plan on returning to walking on Monday.

Still experiencing a little soreness and swelling on the ankle. Walking doesn't cause too many problems. Stairs were and still are the problem. Especially going down stairs - there is something about the weight on the toes and forefoot that is not working. Still hoping that I will notice some improvement with the stairs by early next week.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!!!!

Inspirational VIdeo - January 14, 2008

2008-01-14T13:01:00.000-05:00

I though that I would continue the inspirational videos this week. Before I do - I wanted to announce that I am not sure how many training posts I will have over the next few weeks. I injured my right ankle on Saturday while getting up off of the kitchen floor after putting groceries away on the lower shelf. I went to the doctor's today and he was stumped by what I had done. He did agree that the ankle looked swollen but after pressing on and moving the ankle around to find the source of pain - he listed it as "sprained ankle". He did advise me to take it easy and watch it over the next 2 weeks. If it isn't better, he wants to x-ray it. He said it might end up being a stress fracture of a deep bone or possibly torn cartilage. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for just a sprain. My next race is February 17th.

Here is the video for this week.

Inspirational Video

2008-01-07T15:22:00.001-05:00

After learning how to post video last week, I thought that I would try to add an inspirational video each week. Here is this week's video.

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It was difficult to watch this year's IM World Championships and to know that this would probably be the last time that the Hoyts would be attempting the IM. It was even more moving to watch them miss the cut off time for the swim section of the race.

Training Log - January 7, 2008

2008-01-07T12:48:00.000-05:00

Countdown to Louisville - 936 days.

Went walking today at Creekside during lunch. The weather today was a prime example of how flirtatious the weather can be in Central Ohio. One week ago, I was walking in the New Year's Day 5K and dealing with 30 degrees and 25+ mph winds. Today, it was partly cloudy and around 60 degrees. It was a wonderful taste of spring - unfortunately, spring is couple of months off.

My time today was 52:44 with an average pace of 17:17 min/mile. Split times were: (1) 17:56, (2) 17:46 and (3) 17:03.

I did notice today that they are almost done with the new extension to the paths at Creekside Park. Can't wait to get to use them.

The Next Step in the Journey

2008-01-07T08:58:00.000-05:00

I chose the name of this blog ("A Journey of Many Steps") because in anything we do in life - there is a progression of small steps to reach the goal. In that light, I have taken the next step in my progression towards the Ironman. This morning I registered for the 2008 Columbus Marathon. The date will be Sunday October 19th and the distance will be 26.2 miles.

I will be doing the usual walks during the next few months as the weather allows. April will be the start of my training program. I have set up a schedule similar to the one I followed last year for the Half Marathon. I will be slowly increasing the mileage from week to week. This will peak at two 20 mile walks in September. The distance still seems unreachable but the 10 milers seemed that way last summer. I really look forward to the training and taking the next step.

The Man Who Doesn't Make Excuses

2008-01-02T19:27:00.000-05:00

Here is some background on the man from the video that I posted. This comes from the Nike website and was at the end of the video on their site.

"Matt Scott is a wheelchair basketball player, a NWBA star, a national champion, a tournament MVP and is training to qualify for the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing. He was born with spina bifida.

And he doesn't make excuses."

With his attitude there is no doubt that he will be on the 2008 team.

What's My Excuse Now ???

2008-01-02T14:05:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year !! and a Race Report

2008-01-01T13:04:00.000-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!!!!!!

I just wanted to start off the entry today with my best wishes for everyone for the new year. I should also say a very, very belated

MERRY CHRISTMAS !!!!!!!

I hope that everyone had a great time over these holidays. I know that I sure did and boy did the scale show it this morning. Not the best way to start the year off but I helps to provide motivation to change. The other thing that helps was to do a 5K this morning. So here is the race report.

The race today was the New Year's Day Resolution 5K held at the Westerville Sports Facility across Cleveland Ave. from the new rec center. I have to say that I was again surprised by the number of people that will come out on a holiday and participate in a race. What made the effort even more interesting was the weather. It was around 30 degrees and the winds were gusting from the west at about 25-30 mph. I dressed according to the rule of dressing for temps about 20 degrees warmer than it is. So, it was a layer of tech shirt and pants under a t-shirt and sweat pants and a windbreaker over that. Also present was the wool watch cap, ear covering and wool gloves. Needless to say that it wasn't until around the first mile that I started to feel warmer.

The race was around the fields there and then under Cleveland Ave to the turn around point and then back around the fields again to the finish line. Quite a few runners out today but not as many walkers. I am proud to say that I didn't pull a DLF (Dead Last Finish) like my first race of 2007. But I did finish ahead of the last 3-4 walkers. I am also proud of my time ----- 48:44. That is a new PR for me in the 5K !!! My mile splits were (1) 15:42, (2) 16:33, (3) 14:53 and the last tenth of a mile in 1:35.

It felt good to be in a race again. As a side note: My little toe that I broke on Dec. 20th did fine. I continue to buddy tape it.

It was a great start to 2008 and it is 942 days until August 2010!!!!!

Race Report - Holiday Run @ Sharon Woods

2007-12-10T10:31:00.000-05:00

The racing weather gods were smiling on us yesterday at the Holiday Run. There was a winter weather advisory posted for Saturday night for freezing rain and possibly .2 inches of ice. Not a good scenario for the race. But thankfully, I awoke Sunday morning to some drizzle and temps in the low 30’s.

The 4 mile path around Sharon Woods Metro Park was paved and cleared of snow for the race. Over 430 people showed up for the race. All in all, it went pretty well. I was able to complete the race in 1:03:46. My average pace was 15:56 minutes/mile. Here are my splits for the miles: (1) 16:16, (2) 17:01, (3) 16:03 and (4) 15:02. I came in 423^rd out of 438 participants.

Here is a link to photos from the race and will be available until 1/31/08.

December 5, 2007 - Walking in a Winter Wonderland

2007-12-05T20:00:00.000-05:00

I woke up this morning to find that Central Ohio did get the snow that the weather forecasters were calling for. The ground was blanketed in white. We got about a total of 3-4 inches of snow overnight and into the morning. It really made a mess of the morning commute. Took me one hour to get to work - normally a 20 minute trip. Thanks, Columbus "Snow Warriors" (insert sarcasm)!!??!!

At first, I decided to forgo the lunch walk in the park. Then I decided to go ahead and walk but not at the usual brisk pace. Good decision on my part. It was awesome to walk while the snow was falling. It really was peaceful. The snow muffled most of the sounds around me. I had the park to myself. I guess that no one wanted to be out when it was about 28 degrees with a wind chill of about 19. I did have to watch my step - especially on the wooden boardwalks. Only slipped a little once.

I would highly recommend walking in a winter wonderland if you get the chance!

Training Log - December 4, 2007

2007-12-04T21:03:00.000-05:00

I think that today's weather is more like what December should be like. It was cloudy and cold. Tonight we are to get our first snow accumulation of the winter. Forecast is for 1-3 inches tonight and another 1-2 inches tomorrow.

Went to Creekside today to walk. Forgot my windbreaker. Not good. The temperature was about 31 degrees but the wind chill was in the 2o's. Ended up walking with my winter coat on. Just too cold to go without it. Walked 2 miles today. Time was around 36 minutes. Nothing too special to report. Will remember the windbreaker tomorrow and also some ear covering.

As a note, I have added a few of the pictures that I took during the Columbus Half Marathon in October to the other pics from the race. I have decided that I will be doing the full marathon this fall.

2007 Ironman World Championships - Some thoughts

2007-12-03T20:05:00.000-05:00

I forgot to post a reminder that the 2007 Ironman World Championships were shown on NBC this weekend. If you didn't get a chance to watch it and it is shown again some time, I would highly recommend checking it out. Even if you aren't into triathlons - you will be touched by the stories of ordinary people that have overcome or are in the process of overcoming various challenges in their lives. I have yet been able to watch one without tears rolling down my face. Their stories are an inspiration to me and countless others.

This year was unusual in that many of the ranked professionals dropped out of the race. Last year's winners: Norman Stadler and Michellie Jones both left during the 112 mile bike portion due to medical issues. 2005 men's champion, Faris Al-Sultan did not even start the race due to a stomach flu. Natascha Badmann wrecked her bike into a traffic cone and fractured her collar bone. This left the field open for anyone to claim the prize.

As interesting as these events were, I found the stories from the non-professionals or "age groupers" more riveting. Stories like the 65 year old woman in her first Ironman as a competitor. She has volunteered in previous years. Or the legally blind gentleman who also was taking on Kona for the first time.

The story that hit me closest to home was the story that was not told in the broadcast. It was of Murray Frank of Canada. He was bib # 644. I saw him get out of the water and knew that he was the one racer that I was going to be rooting for. He was mentioned at the end of the program and they showed him crossing the finish line - becoming an Ironman. I checked his info and he finished with a time of 16:44:08. He was 161/162 in the 45-49 year old men. He was the 1677th finisher of the 1685. He weighs in at 285 pounds.

He is my role model - if he can do it then so can I and so will I.

Race Report - Columbus Turkey Trot

2007-11-27T10:46:00.001-05:00

A little late – I’ll agree - but here is the race report for the 2007 Columbus Turkey Trot 5 miler.

The weather forecast for Thanksgiving was for drizzle/ light rain turning to a rain snow mix later in the day. Woke up and got ready to go and noticed that it wasn’t raining but was a chilly 35 degrees. Drove to the race and was able to park about 2 blocks from the starting line.

I got there early enough to watch the 3 races for the kids. Was great to watch the kids racing and enjoying everything about running. They loved it and they each got a ribbon for doing it.

The time finally came for the over 3500 of us to line up for the race. As fate would have it, it began to drizzle. The closer it got to the start time – the heavier the rain got. I thought that this was not going to be a good way to start the race. Oddly enough, as soon as the race began, the rain stopped. So all we had to deal with was the wind.

Times for the mile spits were as follows: (1) 15:47, (2) 16:00, (3) 16:22, (4) 15:37 and (5) 15:59. Total time for the 5 miles was 1:19:44 with an average pace of 15:57 min/mile. Felt great at the end and felt great about the times.

I only had a few issues with the race. The first was that even though there were quite a few walkers behind me – it appeared that they were beginning to shut down the water station. They were also tearing down the finish line when I got there!!! The other issue that I had was that there was no post race refreshments. Every other race I have been in has had at least water available at the finish line.

Other that these things, the race was good for me. It was the first competition since the half marathon and I was very pleased with my performance.

If you want to check out my photos from the race, please go to the following website:

http://www.fairfieldphoto.com/photocart/index.php?do=photocart&viewGallery=10500

These pictures will be available to view until 12/31/2007.

Mini Recovery over - November 12, 2007

2007-11-12T10:58:00.001-05:00

Well after posting the last entry, I did a 3 mile walk the next day and aggravated the muscles/tendons on the outer side of my left foot. Same spot that was bothering me before. I ended up taking the next few days off.

It is starting to feel better so I set off today to do a little light intervals. No jogging today - only some faster pace walking. Also put in about 20 min. of regular walking. Foot feeling OK. Did get a little rain while out walking around the neighborhood. Nothing to complain about - temps were in the mid 50's.

After announcing that I have the goal of doing the 2010 IM Louisville, I started to take a look at what steps need to be taken to reach the starting line. I have checked into some training plans but it occurred to me that there are many smaller steps that need to be taken care of first. Right now I need to keep my focus on the first step - the foundation that everything else will be built upon. That would be to lose some weight but keep the muscle. Not an easy task but it is something that will need to be done. That will mean getting back to lifting on a regular basis. I have already started this but now I will be keeping a separate log online of my progress. I will add the link to this blog later.

Well, off to the shower. See ya!

Recovery Over - A New Mountain to Climb

2007-11-05T20:54:00.000-05:00

After taking the last 2 weeks to recover from the half marathon, I return to my work outs. Today I went back to Creekside to do some interval training. It doesn't take as much time to do but can really kick your butt. I only did 4 repetitions of a 30/90 second interval. That is 30 seconds of in my case fast walking or jogging and then 90 seconds of recovery. My first fast interval was a fast walk and the other 3 were a very slow jog. A starting point.

I have decided to set my long range sights on the 2010 Ironman in Louisville, KY. Pretty ambitious I know but I know that if I can train and do a half marathon at 320+ pounds. I can get in better shape, lose weight and train to do the IM. For those that don't know, that is a triathlon consisting of a 2.4 mile swim followed by a 112 mile bike ride and ending with a 26.2 mile race. That gives me about 2 years to get ready. Buckle up 'cause here we go again!!!!

If you want to get an idea of what the IM is like, the Ford Ironman World Championships will be on TV on December 1st on NBC. Very beautiful and inspirational. I have a hard time watching this without getting emotional at some of the stories.

Columbus Half Marathon Photos

2007-10-25T10:12:00.000-04:00

As promised, here are some photos from Sunday's race.

This is the back of my race shirt. Janet and the kids signed my sleeve.

Cameron & Rachael cheering on the racers.

Janet and Rachael

My cheering section - Cameron, my brother Mike, Rachael and Janet

My official finish line picture.

After the race with family and fellow TNT walker Kevin

My feet

Here is the link to MarathonFoto. Just select the Columbus Marathon 2007 from the dropdown menu and enter my last name and 32 for the bib number.

2007 Columbus Half Marathon Report - October 22, 2007

2007-10-22T15:15:00.000-04:00

Today brings the report on the 2007 Columbus Half Marathon. I can’t believe that it is finally come to pass. When I look back, I have been training for this since the middle of May. Having followed the training program, I knew that I was ready to do the race.

Saturday was the prep day. I had made a checklist of what I needed to do and have ready. After dinner, I went thru the list. Everything was ready by evening and I went to bed at 10:30PM. I was amazed that I slept as well as I did. The only glitch in my plans was that I set my alarm for 5 AM but forgot to turn on the alarm! Thankfully, Janet woke me up at 5:05AM. I got dressed and gathered my stuff and headed downtown.

I met with the Team in Training group at the Hyatt Hotel downtown at 6AM. We headed off to the starting line at around 6:40. It was still rather dark and the wind was whipping through the buildings. The temperature at the start was around 55 degrees. I met a gentleman named Kevin who was with TNT. Through talking before the race, we found that we both were in the same boat. Due to our work schedules and family responsibilities neither of us was able to train with the team.

The horn went off at 7 AM to start the almost 1000 walkers on our 13.1 mile journey. Kevin and I had the same pace so we walked together with several other TNT walkers. The sun was just starting to come up as we headed east on Broad St. My first three mile times were right where I trained – 17:26, 16:40 and 16:47.

Just past the 3 mile mark, we turned north into Bexley and wound our way through the side streets. At one point, we passed the Governor’s Mansion and the Governor’s wife was out front flanked by State Troopers waving at the racers. I hit the 4 mile mark at 16:51. We turned south to head towards Town St. We passed several bands providing entertainment along the route. My mile times for miles 5-9 were 16:13, 16:37, 16:21, 16:08 and 16:11.

It was about this time that I began to notice blisters beginning to form on the inside edges of my heels. Continued to press on into German Village. Mile 10 time was 16:14. Passed Schiller Park and was struck by how beautiful it was. Kevin (who has been walking beside me the entire way) stated that he did quite a bit of training in the park.

At mile 11, we turned north on High St and began the final stretch of the race. My time at mile 11 was 16:34. Heading up High St towards downtown, we hit what seemed like the biggest hill in the race. It probably was just the tired legs!! Mile 12 time was 16:30 and the crowds began to grow larger. We turned off of High St and onto Nationwide Blvd. at mile 13 with a time of 16:24. The finish line was in sight. Just shy of the finish line, I saw Janet and the kids along with my brother Mike- he had just gotten in from vacation in Florida late Saturday night. Hit the finish line with a time of 3:37:23. The pace time was 16:36.

Picked up my medal and had my picture taken and then headed to the Team In Training tent to check in and wait for my family. I was completely surprised by running into my brother in law’s parents – Jim and Nancy Simms. It took some time for Janet and the kids to make it to the Family Reunion area. Once we met up and took some pictures, it was time to start the quarter mile hike to the car – uphill!!!

All in all, the day was perfect for racing and watching the race. Janet and the kids were able to get a good spot to watch the race and I was able to park close to the finish line.

I have been asked if I will do the Columbus again. I reply that I would but next time I would probably train on my own.

I asked people in my fundraising letter to let me know if I could walk in honor or in memorial for a friend or loved one. I want to list here the names that I put on my race shirt.

In Memorial:

Mary Spohn (My grandmother )

Sally Mann ( My aunt)

Arthur Rose Sr.

Andy Grether

Donald Parks

Fred Williams

Jack Williams

In Honor:

Alwyn Cosgrove

Rickie Samuel

Keegan Quinn

My race stats :

Time: 3:37:23

Pace: 16:36

Overall: 647/939

Age Group: 10/17

Gender: 107/147

I will be posting some pictures from the race later as well as providing a link to the official photos.

Training Log - October 15, 2007

2007-10-15T13:00:00.001-04:00

Well, it’s hard to believe but it’s the week of the Half Marathon. Each time I think about it – I get a few butterflies in the stomach. Mostly from excitement but I have to admit that some of it is nerves. This is the biggest thing that I have attempted in quite some time. I have followed my training and have put in the miles (248 training miles!!!). So looking ahead to the race there is I have no doubt that I will be able to finish the 13.1 miles and will probably be able to finish in under 4 hours. I guess that everyone that stands at the starting line on Sunday will be nervous in some way so I will be in good company.

I will save my looking back and thinking about what I have learned for my post race posts. This week will be three 2 mile walks and then rest on Saturday. I have already begun a checklist of things that I need to do and to have ready for Sunday. If you know me, you will understand that is just the way I am. My loving wife, Janet, commented at lunch on Saturday that I probably have a list of times for each mile already planned out. I don’t have it written down but I do have a good idea what pace I want to hit for most of the race.

Now to the training report. I completed what will be my last training walk at Antrim Park yesterday. It was a beautiful day to be out. I did the 4 miles in 1:06:30 which is a pace of 16:38 min/mile. Felt good during the walk. Started to lose some steam in the third mile but didn’t bring any beans with me. Gutted it out for the last mile and had a pretty good time. Splits are as follows: (1) 16:53, (2) 16:25, (3) 16:58 and (4) 16:15.

Training Log - October 1, 2007

2007-10-01T15:27:00.000-04:00

The end of the month of September brought about the end of my training escalation. That bright sunny Sunday morning saw me once again at Antrim Park to log in my weekly high mileage day for training. My training program listed it as my final long walk prior to the taper period that ends with the Half Marathon. The ten miles went well. No real problems to report with the exception of getting a small rock in my shoe that caused a blister. Not fun but was able to finish the final 3 miles without much of a change to my mile times.

I finished the walk in 2:48:46 with an average pace of 16:53 minutes/mile. That average pace will put me finishing the half marathon in about 3 hours and 41 minutes. I spent quite a bit of time during my walk thinking. That’s what I love about walking (especially without headphones and music). It gives me a chance to do some real thinking. Yesterday, the topic of thought was what I wanted as goals for the half marathon. I finally decided that the most important thing for me to accomplish is to have fun. I know that sounds trite but the more I thought about it the more I wanted that to be my main goal. I have no idea what will happen once the race starts. Most of what happens will be outside my control so I want to make sure that I have a great time. After that, my “serious” goal would be to finish in less than 4 hours. All in all, I would have to say that the whole training experience has been great.

Here are my splits for the 10 mile walk: (1) 17:34, (2) 16:33, (3) 17:12, (4) 16:17, (5) 16:02, (6) 16:21, (7) 16:56, (8) 18:20, (9) 17:01 and (10) 16:32.

Training Log - September 27, 2007

2007-09-27T15:09:00.000-04:00

Today’s training walk was unique among all of my walks. This one took place in the rain. Not a late summer/early fall gentle rain no… this one was one with periods of heavy downpours and occasional thunder. That last part was one that I wasn’t sure I wanted to deal with. There was only one instance that concerned me. About ¾ of a mile and around 10 minutes into the walk there was a bright flash followed about 2-3 seconds later with a clap of thunder that sounded like a firework shell exploding.

I’m not so sure that I shouldn’t have just stopped right there and got back to my car but I continued and there were no more “close” calls. The rain continued and by the second mile I was soaked to the bone. There wasn’t a spot on me that was dry. Of course, as I finished up – the rain stopped!

Did 3 miles today in 49:31 with a pace of 16:14 min/mile.

Training Log - September 25, 2007

2007-09-25T13:32:00.000-04:00

Another awesome day to be outside! I went to Creekside to do my training walk for the day. There just seems to be something about walking through the woods and seeing the leaves starting to change color that just invigorates me. I love the fall season. I am especially loving the training walks when the temperature is not over 90 degrees! It quickens the pace.

My time today for the 3.05 miles was 49:39. My pace was 16:17 min/mile.

My foot is feeling much better. I went out and got some new socks to replace my old running socks. They were over a year and a half old. The new ones are a little thicker so I think that they work better with the new shoes.

Training Log - September 24, 2007

2007-09-24T12:55:00.001-04:00

Well…….. it was another beautiful weekend here in Central Ohio. I decided to celebrate the arrival of Fall by spending some time outside. I was scheduled to do a 9 mile training walk on Sunday and I set out to accomplish that task. I ended up only getting 7 miles in due to what I thought was a large blister forming on the side of my left foot. No blister was found but I do have two small cracks on my left heel. I will definitely start using the Zim’s Crack Cream on the heels. Other than that everything went well. I am still trying to figure out what I should eat before the long walks and when. Hopefully, I will get it right next week. Next Sunday is my final long walk – 10 miles – before the tapering down prior to the Half Marathon.

So here are my split times for the walk: (1) 17:20, (2) 16:35, (3) 17:19, (4) 16:19, (5) 16:59, (6) 17:13 and (7) 20:30. My total time for the 7 miles was 2:02:17.

Update to 10K

2007-09-18T15:36:00.000-04:00

Not sure if anyone is reading these entries. For those that are keeping up with my progress, you can check out photos of me at the New Albany 10K Walk. These were taken in about the last tenth of a mile from the finish line. The lady walking next to me is Amber Walls. She is my Team In Training walk coach.

Here is the link.

My pictures are listed as "Baird 0076" and will be available for viewing until 10/18.

Training Log - September 17, 2007

2007-09-17T09:41:00.001-04:00

This training report will also be a race report as yesterday’s training walk was the 2007 New Albany 10K Walk.

Got up at around 5:30AM and showered and shaved. Ate a bowl of Kashi Go Lean for breakfast. Got dressed and gathered up my race gear. Checked the thermometer and it said that it was 45°. Stepped outside and decided that it wasn’t that bad. Drove to the race and got there at around 7:30. Parked and walked about a half mile to the check in.

The volunteers were still setting up the check in lines so I was able to walk right up to the table to get my timing chip. Walked around the area for a little while and visited some of the sponsor tables. I availed myself to a bagel and some of the other “goodies” that they were giving away. Since there was still about an hour until the race started, I walked back to the car to drop off my stuff and to warm up a little.

This was the largest race that I have been a part of so far. There were 2046 participants that finished the race. Prior to the start, we were grouped by pace times. I was in the back along with many other people. We all had times of 16:00 and above. The race started and it took us about 2 minutes to reach the starting line. The road was packed with walkers. The only way to move up was to get to the outside edge and work your way up.

The course wound its way through the neighborhoods of New Albany and past the Country Club. Many of the homeowners were out on their porches and were cheering us on. Several little kids were standing by the road and gave us high fives!!!. At one point, there was a group of Girl Scout Brownies that had pom-poms and cheered us along. It was so uplifting. The weather was beautiful, the sun was out and it was a great day to be out walking.

As I headed into the final leg of the race, my walk coach from TNT – Amber – came out and finished the race with me. She walked the Dayton Marathon on Saturday and was there to cheer her walkers on. She said that the Columbus Marathon will be much bigger – it will be about 10,000 participants.

I finished the race with a time of 1:41:14. I had a pace of 16:18 min/mile. Out of the 2046 walkers, I finished #1196. Some other trivial facts: 254/381 Males and 52/78 in my age group. Overall, I believe that this was the most fun I have had in a race.

My split times are as follows: (1) 17:12, (2) 16:23, (3) 16:28, (4) 15:55, (5) 16:06, (6) 15:57 and the final .2 miles in 3:23.

Training Log - September 3, 2007

2007-09-03T19:49:00.000-04:00

I hope that everyone enjoyed their Labor Day! The unofficial end of summer and the beginning of fall. We spent the day sealing the driveway and having a cookout at my sister-in-law and brother-in-law's house. This evening we will enjoy a fire in the fire pit in our back yard.

The weekend also brought about my 41st birthday. Received several gift cards that will allow me to pick up a new Ironman watch and also a fanny pack for my walking. Great time with both sides of the family!

I spent most of the morning at Antrim Park getting my 9 mile walk in. The weather was once again beautiful. The sun was out and there was not a cloud in the sky. Walk went very well. Completed it in 2:29:50. Not too far off from my last 9 miler - 2:27:52. My splits went as follows: 17:21, 16:55, 17:17, 16:08, 15:40, 16:57, 16:15, 16:08 and 17:10.

I am very pleased with my times. This puts me on track to finish the half marathon in about 3 hours and 45 min.

There are only 47 days til the half marathon!!!!

Training Log - August 31, 2007

2007-08-31T15:24:00.000-04:00

I know that this has been a very busy time lately ….. but when I checked my last entry in this blog I was amazed. It was at the beginning of August and was an update of several days. Now I stand at the end of the month wondering how it could go by so fast.

Tomorrow is the first of September (and my 41^st birthday!!) and there will be 49 days until the 2007 Columbus Half Marathon. The training has gone by so fast. It continues to amaze me when I look back at my stats for the training. Including today’s walk, I have put in 44:40:09 in time and 159.18 miles. I can and have done several 8 mile walks and look forward to the 10 mile walk. This is the same “mountain” that looked so impossible back in the middle of May.

I have picked up a little “badge of honor” after my first 9 miler. The toenail on my second toe on my right foot has started to turn black or various shades of several colors. I guess that this is not uncommon in long distance athletes.

I have raised 77% of the amount that I need to raise and the donations continue to come in.

I will list the distance, time, pace and split times for my training walks:

August 7 – 3.05 miles, 52:23, 17:10, (1) 17:46 (2) 17:37 (3) 17:00

August 11 – 3.0 miles, 51:28, 17:09, (1) 16:56 (2) 16:50 (3) 17:42

August 12 – 8.0 miles, 2:23:11, 17:54, (1) 18:44 (2) 17:03 (3) 18:29 (4) 16:02 (5) 17:11 (6) 18:59 (7) 17:50 (8) 18:55

August 14 – 4.08 miles, 1:07:46, 16:37, (1) 18:20 (2) 17:14 (3) 16:01 (4) 16:12

August 18 – 3.0 miles, 50:53, 16:58, (1) 17:29 (2) 16:27 (3) 16:58

August 19 – 9.0 miles, 2:27:52, 16:26, (1) 16:46 (2) 15:57 (3) 16:12 (4) 15:43 (5) 15:29 (6) 17:01 (7) 16:31 (8) 16:45 (9) 17:28

August 24 – 2.0 miles, 35:30, 17:45, (1) 17:48 (2) 17:42

August 25 – 3.0 miles, 49:45, 16:35, (1) 16:52 (2) 16:13 (3) 16:40

August 26 – 8.0 miles, 2:13:35, 16:42, (1) 17:20 (2) 16:30 (3) 16:58 (4) 16:04 (5) 15:51 (6) 17:36 (7) 16:44 (8) 16:31

August 28 – 3.05 miles, 50:59, 16:43, (1) 17:39 (2) 17:06 (3) 16:14

August 31 – 3.05 miles, 49:14, 16:09, (1) 16:44 (2) 16:37 (3) 15:53

Sunday will bring the second of three 9 mile walks. Report back then.

Training Log - August 7, 2007

2007-08-07T08:14:00.000-04:00

I went to post my weekend report and noticed that I haven’t posted anything since last weekend. Boy, have I dropped the ball !!!! SO here goes the report…….

Tuesday July 31, 2007

Did my 3.05 miles at Creekside Park again. The temps were in the low 80’s. Time was 50:33 with a pace of 16:34. My split times were: 17:06, 17:00 and 16:27.

Thursday August 2, 2007

Tempo day today at Creekside. Temps around 84 degrees. Quite humid. Tempo was 10-20-10.

Friday August 3, 2007

Creekside Park today. Temp was 84 degrees with 58% humidity. Heat index 87 degrees. Completed the 3.05 miles in 49:43. Pace was 16:18 min/mile. Split times were: 16:42, 16:46 and 16:15.

Saturday August 4, 2007

Decided that due to a family event this evening that I would walk in the morning. Got to Antrim Park around 10:15 and it was already hot and humid. Completed the 3.0 miles in 49:09 with a pace of 16:23. Split times were: 17:12, 16:36 and 15:21.

Sunday August 5, 2007

It rained most of the morning with a few thundershowers in the late morning. Finally got to Antrim at 2:15 PM. Not many folks at the park… there were only 6 other cars in the parking lot. Got started on the 6.0 mile walk and there was only 2 other people on the trail. Humidity was up and only got worse as the sun began to come out. Finished the walk in 1:44:07. Split times were: 17:35, 16:45, 15:59, 16:39, 17:20 and 19:48. Made two mistakes today. One was that I only brought a 20 oz. bottle of water on the walk. Second, I forgot to bring my sports beans. I really began to feel it around the 4 mile mark. The last mile was a battle. Also need to look into another shirt to wear. My shirt was soaked and felt like it weighed around 5 lbs.

Training Log - July 30, 2007

2007-07-30T08:30:00.001-04:00

Well it’s Monday again. Time to start another week and time to report on my walk yesterday. I did my 7 mile walk at Antrim Park. I have figured that the remainder of my distance walks will be done at Antrim. I have figured out where the tenth mile marks are so calculating mileage is easier.

The day was another good day to walk. The temperature was around 83 degrees and as is typical of Central Ohio summer – the humidity was up around 75%. There was a breeze that helped with easing the humidity a bit. After last week and the problems that I ran into at about 3.5 miles, I got some “sports beans” at Target. I started eating 1-2 every mile after about the 3.5 mile mark. Didn’t run into the same thing this time. I decided that I was not going to try to go all out but just keep a steady pace through the walk.

I finished the walk in 1:58:20 with an average pace of 16:54 min/mile. Very pleased with my performance. My mile split times are: 16:40, 16:22, 16:20, 16:47, 17:10, 17:10 and 17:52.

This was a milestone in my training as this distance represents over half of the half marathon distance. I look forward to this coming weekend’s walk as it will be only 6 miles.

Training Log - July 26, 2007 Part II

2007-07-26T15:52:00.000-04:00

Well, after a strong morning thundershower, I wasn’t sure what the weather was going to be but I was sure that I was going to be out in it. As fate would have it – the rain moved on and it wasn’t that bad a walk. This was a Temp walk again. Ten minutes of regular pace followed by ten minutes of fast pace ending with ten minutes of regular pace. Not too many folks at the park today – probably due to the weather.

Training Log - July 26, 2007 Part I

2007-07-26T08:05:00.000-04:00

Good morning to all. I thought that I would bring this blog up to date this morning and then post my Tempo walk info this PM.

After taking last Thursday and Friday off to let a leg injury of sorts heal up, I went back at it on Sunday to do my 6 mile walk. Decided that the 1.2 mile path at Antrim Park would be the best place to walk. It was a great day to walk – temps in the low 80’s and low humidity. I don’t think that I “bonked” at the 3.5 mile mark but I really ran out of steam. Not sure why but everything seemed to be funny to me and I found myself giggling at times. I didn’t have anything like a gel or sport beans to eat while I walked – this is something that I won’t let happen again! I did manage to finish the 6 miles in 1:42:25 – a 17:04 min/mile pace. My times for the 1.2 mile laps were: 19:54, 19:19, 20:11, 20:50 and 22:10.

Tuesday brought my 3.05 mile walk at Creekside Park. Weather was cool – 68 degrees and overcast. Time for the walk was 50:35 and a 16:35 min/mile pace. Splits were: 16:56, 16:57 and 16:41.

I will post again later today with the Tempo walk report.

Training Log - July 18, 2007

2007-07-18T20:14:00.000-04:00

For anyone that keeps up with these entries, you will notice that I did not post anything for yesterday. I was scheduled to walk 3 miles yesterday but I got to work and my wife called to inform me that my bag with my "walking stuff" was on the kitchen table. I had walked off without it! Not good. But I adapted and moved the walk to today. This will make for an interesting next couple of days. Today was the makeup day, tomorrow is the Tempo walk, Friday is another 3 mile, as is Saturday. Sunday is the 6 mile walk! 15+ miles in 5 days. Yahoo!

Today was an OK walk. The temp wasn't too bad - around 74 degrees. The humidity was another story. It was around 78%. Still I was able to do the 3.05 miles in 49:57 and a pace of 16:23 min/mile.

Training Log - July 16, 2007

2007-07-16T12:34:00.000-04:00

Very busy weekend for me. Starting back on Thursday with my Temp training. It was the 10-10-10 tempo. Everything went well. It was about 72 degrees and sunny at Creekside Park. Felt a little burning in the lower shins during the faster pace 10 min. Nothing that was a real problem.

Friday brought about a 2 mile walk at Creekside again. Temp was around 68 degrees and was very comfortable. Did the 2.06 miles in 33:04 minutes. This was a 16:03 min/mile pace. Could have done the usual 3 mile walk but did not want to stray from the training schedule because of the mileage on the weekend.

Sunday saw me at Antrim Park to do the 5 miles for the weekend. Sunny skies and about 83 degrees when I walked at 2:30PM. I wasn't able to get the splits for the walk but I did get it done in 1:22:05. That is a 16:25 min/mile pace. This is the longest distance that I have walked thus far. The only event of the walk was when I was bit/stung by some insect on the back of my leg about 1.5 miles into the walk. It didn't swell up and I rinsed it off with water and continued. Afterward, I was sore but didn't stiffen up or need to soak or take some OTC pain killers.

Training Log - July 10, 2007

2007-07-10T20:01:00.001-04:00

Good evening everyone!

Today was a great day to get out and walk. I went at lunch to Creekside Park and did my walk. Temp was around 83 degrees and it was somewhat humid. Oddly enough, there were not too many people there today. I started off slow and then built up speed. I finished the 3.05 miles in 49:24 with a pace of 16:24 min/mile. The sky was starting to get very dark towards the end of the walk and thankfully I was able to finish and be in the car before the heavy rains came!

Very interested to see how Thursday goes as it is the first "Tempo" walk of the training.

July 9, 2007 Update

2007-07-09T07:39:00.000-04:00

Well, July is here and the summer is in full swing. I haven't posted here for a little while so an update is in order. Everything is going well. My kids are enjoying the summer vacation and amazingly are doing a lot more outside activities. They love playing on the trampoline and riding their bikes after dinner. I am very happy about that.

My training for the half marathon continues. I have been fitted for my running shoes and love them! They are Asics Foundation 7's. These are really good for the overpronation that I found out that I have. The shoes are great and I want to thank Karl at Front Runner. The folks at Front Runner are the greatest! They take the time to make sure that you get the shoes that are the best for your feet.

In the training realm, I continue to follow my training schedule. Saturday began the steady increase in mileage on the weekends. I did the 3.8 mile trail at Sharon Woods in the heat and humidity in 1:04:38. That is a 17:01 min/mile pace. I began to run out of steam probably at the 3.5 mile mark but did not stop and continued to walk. Overall, I am pleased with the walk.

I completed the Westerville Rotary 4th of July 5K last Wednesday. It was a great morning to have the 5K. Temps in the mid 60's and low humidity. I finished in 50:18 and a 16:12 pace. The next race that I will be in will be the New Albany Walk Classic in September.

My fundraising continues to go well. I am now at $738 of the $1700/$2500 that I need to reach.

Training Log - June 25, 2007

2007-06-25T22:34:00.000-04:00

Good evening everyone!

Just wanted to check in this evening. I am sitting at the kitchen table writing this and even at 10:35PM it is warm in this house (78 degrees). Not a good sign for tomorrow and my walk.

I did do a walk on Saturday evening again at Antrim Park. Lots of people there even though it looked like rain. Didn't rain though -- par for the course here in Central Ohio lately. We could sure use the rain. Finished the 3 miles in about 49 min. That is getting to be a standard time for me. Not sure if I can keep that pace up for 13.1 miles though.

I will check in tomorrow night with my report from my walk. I gotta go - sweat is not a friend of the laptop!

Training Log - June 20, 2007

2007-06-20T22:36:00.001-04:00

Once again bringing everyone up to speed with the training. Everything is moving along. Got over whatever I had last week and did get a walk in on Thursday at Creekside. Did it in 1 hour 18 seconds.

We had a great training clinic on Saturday. It was with the doctors from the Ohio State University Sports Medicine Endurance sports group. They spoke about how to avoid injuries. Mostly how to stretch correctly. They also had a nutritionist that works with the football team and wrestling teams at OSU. Her topic was how to eat enough while training and also be watching your weight. It was tailored just for me.

Walked at Antrim again on Saturday night. Only did 3 miles that night. Did it in 51:20. I spoke to the TNT walking coach at the clinic. She told me that when I do my mileage during the week that it should be at my usual pace and not to be a slow walk. So I will be back to my usual speed.

Today I walked at Creekside again. Sunny with a slight breeze. Temps in the 75 degree range. Completed the 3.05 miles in 49:28. Felt great.

My fund raising continues to amaze me. I have received over $450 in donations! I am also amazed at some of the stories that I am hearing from people. It truly is humbling to hear what others have gone thru or have watched in dealing with these diseases.

Training Log - June 14, 2007

2007-06-14T20:56:00.000-04:00

After the thrill of the personal record time for the 5K on Saturday, I ran right into the valley on Tuesday. Long story short -- I went to see my doctor on Friday because of a "boil" on my left elbow that had been there since Monday and was warm to the touch and had developed a black center to it. I called the office about it on Thursday and I was told that they would like to see me. I thought it was just an infected spider bite but the dr. thought it might be a staph infection. He put me on antibiotics. Fast forward to Tuesday and I wake up feeling like crap. I got in the shower and started shivering. Ended up spending about 20 min. just standing under the hot water. Went thru the day still feeling less than 100%. I canceled my walk because I was not up to it. Ended the day at 10 PM and went to bed (usual time for this is about 11-11:30). Woke up the next morning feeling much better. So I guess that this wasn't the short version of the long story after all !!

Today I did my 3.05 mile walk at Creekside. They are getting ready for a blues and jazz festival there this weekend. Park looks good. There is a small carnival with rides that set itself up in the field by the veterans memorial. It was sunny today and the temp at 11AM was 78 degrees with 48% humidity. By the time I was done it was up to 81 degrees and 45% humidity. I am continuing to do a slower walk so my time was 1 hour and 18 seconds.

I have been amazed by the response at work to my fund raising letters. I have received many checks and wishes of good luck. I also got a note from someone from our Marilyn Lane office. He shared with me that he lost a friend to leukemia/lymphoma and that the doctors thought that he might have had leukemia. I never knew this about him.

I keep the notes that I get from people on the wall next to my desk at work to keep me motivated.

Update - June 10, 2007

2007-06-10T12:31:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to update my training log from yesterday. I got the official results from the Muirfield 5K and my time was incorrect. The official time for me was 49:16 !!!!!!!! My pace was 15:52 minutes/ mile. This is a new personal record for me in the 5K.

Training Log - June 9, 2007

2007-06-09T11:08:00.000-04:00

This post will bring us up to date on the activities of the past few days. It has been a little hectic around the house. School has ended for the kids which will bring a little relief! I did a lot of work in getting my fundraising letters out. The deadline for TNT to pay for postage on the first 50 letters was yesterday. I got all of my letters stuffed and labeled and to the office on time.

Thursday, I got my 3.05 mile walk in at Creekside. Once again I decided to try to ease back a little on the pace and do it at an easier pace. The weather was great - 80 degrees and 45% humidity with a great breeze from the south. Did the walk in 58:28 with a pace of 19:10 minutes/mile.

This morning I was able to get my weekend 3 mile walk in. I did the 2007 Muirfield 5K. Beautiful weather for the race. Temps were in the mid 60's to start and the sun was shinning! By my watch, my time was 50:40 but I'll wait and see what the timing chip says.

Training Log - June 3, 2007

2007-06-03T09:04:00.000-04:00

This is actually for yesterday. I decided that because of some family obligations this afternoon and the prediction of thunderstorms for most of today that I would get my walk in last night. My training schedule called for a 3 mile walk this weekend. So at 7:30 PM I set off for Antrim Park to walk around the lake.

Not sure what the temp or humidity was so nothing to report there. The track around the lake is 1.2 miles. I ended up doing 3.6 miles in 1:00:54. The track there is crushed gravel so by the time I was done my legs and shoes were very dusty. All in all, it was an enjoyable experience. I'm glad that I got it in.

I will be picking up my Muirfield 5K race packet tomorrow at lunch. The Muirfield was the first race I entered in - so it's been 1 year of races. With the completion of that race, I will have done 6 5K's and 2 4 mile races.

Training Log - June 1, 2007

2007-06-01T21:05:00.001-04:00

Today continues the summer like conditions. I will say the having someone that we walk for does make a difference. Work responsibilities pushed my lunch out 30 min. and I started thinking about how much hotter it would be. I started to talk myself into not walking because of the heat. Then I thought how lame that excuse was in light of what Alwyn and the thousands of others that are having to go thru chemo and radiation today were going through. So I put my stuff on and headed out with a new dedication.

It was another sunny day. The temperature at 11:37 when I began was 83 degrees with 53% humidity (H.I. 85). There was a slight breeze that helped a little. By the time the 3.05 mile walk was over it was 88 degrees with humidity of 35% (H.I. 88). I completed my walk in 52 minutes flat. That is a pace of 17:03 min/mile.

Challenge Log - Goals

2007-05-30T20:50:00.000-04:00

Here are my goals according to the latest rules revisions:

Nutrition - 110 half days
Fitness
Resistance Training - 15 sessions
Interval Training - 3 sessions
SS/Walking - 27 sessions
Personal - Lose 20 pounds
Competition - Complete 2 5K events

Training Log - May 30, 2007

2007-05-30T20:17:00.000-04:00

It's hard to believe that the month of May is almost over! It seemed that we spent the first four months holding on until May came. In my mind, May is the month of spring. We don't get too many snows in the month of May in Central Ohio. April is always good for one or two accumulations.

Today we were about as far away from thoughts of snow as you can be. The temps here were around 90 degrees. The humidity was also beginning to show itself. The walk today at Creekside went well. It was a nice sunny late morning and it was about 78 degrees. I was thankful that I decided to bring a white shirt to walk in. By the time I was done, it was 84 degrees and the air seemed to be a warm blanket around me. I completed the 3.05 miles in 50:40 minutes. That is a pace of 16:37.

I received notification that my brother and his wife went online and made a contribution to support me. I'm not sure if they want the amount to be public so I will just say "THANKS" to Mike & Patty and also Zach and Jacob. It means a lot to me.

I have signed up for a challenge on the JP Fitness forums to help me stay on track with my fitness goals and my training schedule. I will be posting my training here as well as my half marathon training. I will title the JP Fitness posts as "Challenge Log" and continue to post my walking log as "Training Log". I hope that everyone is now thoroughly confused.

I will say that one of the benefits of this training is of course that I will lose weight. I weighed myself this morning and I was 341 pounds. That's down 6 pounds from about 2 weeks ago !!! Less weight to carry over the 13 miles.

Training Log - May 28, 2007

2007-05-28T13:36:00.000-04:00

Good Memorial Day to everyone and a special thanks to all of our service men and women both past and present. We would not be able to enjoy the freedoms we have today if it were not for brave souls that paid the ultimate price.

Just to bring everyone up to speed. I went to the Team in Training kickoff breakfast on Saturday and had a great time. There were probably 150 folks there that will be competing in the 3 major events coming up. The majority of the people were at the tables for the Columbus Marathon and Half Marathon. It was a great event and it was great to meet my mentor Jenni and also to meet the walkers. There were 11 of us there that will be walking in the event. We found out that we will be walking to honor the 5 researchers that the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society sponsors here in Central Ohio. They are: John Byrd MD , Gustavo Leone PhD, Christoph Plass PhD, Roger Brieswitz PhD and Michael Caligiuri MD.

Sunday was another trip to Highbanks to walk the trails. This time I remembered to wear my walking gear and to bring water and a cell phone. The weather was supposed to be stormy all afternoon but was just cloudy when we got to the park. I did the 2.3 miles in about 32 min. Janet and the kids came along again and walked the trail while I went on ahead.

Noticed that my heels are beginning to crack so I will need to keep on top of that. Other than that all is going well.

Training Log - May 23, 2007

2007-05-23T20:27:00.000-04:00

Well, I managed to get my walk in at lunch today. I wasn't sure that this was going to be the case though. We are having some difficulties with several transactions at the bank. I thought that I might need to go to the bank in person. Luckily, I was able to do it over the phone - allowing me to get my walk in.

Another lovely day here in Central Ohio. At Creekside Park, the temperature was 79 degrees with 52% humidity (heat index of 80) at 11:15 AM. I did my 3.05 miles in 52:25 which is a 17:11 min/mile pace. Tried to focus on my technique more today as I walked.

I received an e-mail from the Customer Service dept at alwyncosgrove.com. It thanked my for my e-mail and said that it would be fine for me to walk in Alwyn's honor. I haven't heard anything from my family and friends but I'm sure it will happen.

Ooops.... - May 22, 2007

2007-05-22T10:48:00.000-04:00

Well, I just went to get my stuff ready to change into so that I could do my walk at Creekside and realized that I was missing an important piece of equipment. I forgot to pack my socks !!!! There are several items that I could forget and still be able to walk. Socks are not on that list. Oh well, tomorrow is supposed to be a nice day as well.

Training Log - May 22, 2007

2007-05-22T09:14:00.000-04:00

Took last Thursday off due to feeling under the weather. Janet (my wife) has strep and I wasn't sure if I was coming down with it as well. Feeling much better now.

Took the family to Highbanks Metro Park on Sunday to get my weekend walk in. Took the Overlook trail. 2.35 miles of scenic trail. Several good sized hills so the legs got a good workout. Did come across a 2.5 - 3 foot snake sunning itself on the trail. It saw me coming and slithered off into the woods. The temperature was about 75 with some humidity.

Sent out some of my fundraising e-mails this morning. Good to get going on that. I am looking forward to hearing back from family and friends. I also sent an e-mail to Alwyn Cosgrove. It was his Lift Strong CD that started me on this journey. Just wanted to thank him for his inspirational story. He would probably shrug it off and say that others have had it worse. I also wanted to ask his permission to train and walk in his honor as a leukemia/lymphoma survivor.

Training Log - May 15, 2007

2007-05-15T22:27:00.000-04:00

Kinda sounds like something Capt. Kirk would say doesn't it?

Good day today! I was able to walk at Creekside park today. I got my 3.05 miles done in 52:16. Pretty good pace. I am still working on my walking technique and not really interested in setting a blazing pace. The weather was very nice. It was about 75 degrees with moderate humidity. There was a great breeze that kept me cool. I decided to wear my Headsweats covering today and was glad I did. Having a shaved head means that I have to watch out for a sunburn! No one wants to see me with my head peeling - Yuck!

I was able to create a flier today that I was able to put up on the bulletin board at work. Put a picture of me in my TNT shirt on it as well as some facts about LLS and how folks can contribute. I thought it looked pretty good. I also worked on my fundraiser letter this evening. All I need to do to finish it is to add some info on our Hero.

I will be sending out an e-mail to close family and friends explaining what I am doing and asking them to contribute.

The first steps

2007-05-14T20:56:00.000-04:00

They say that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. This is a journal of my journey to walk a marathon. I don't know where or when the idea took root in my mind but it is there now.

I started walking in races last June with the 2006 Muirfield 5K. It was there that I was bitten by the race bug. By the time December came around, I had competed in four 5Ks and one 4 miler. My times were not in the top of the walkers but they are were around the same times. My personal best was 51:02 - a 16:27 min/mile pace.

Once the winter cold had left the Central Ohio area, it was time for my first race of the year - The Dam Fool 4 Miler. I was not totally prepared for the race and by the first mile I knew I was in trouble. I managed to finish the race ( dead last) with a couple of surprises. The first was that I was only 1 minute off of my December 4 mile race time. The other was that I was the only male to walk the race. Because of this, I was listed as getting the top honors for my category and received a $20 gift card to a local restaurant.

Enter the folks from Team In Training. They train people to run and walk marathons. The participants are asked to raise funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I joined the organization and entered to walk the 2007 Columbus Half Marathon. This is my first big step in reaching my goal to walk a marathon.

Saturday, I walked another 5K. This was the Mother's Day 5K at Griggs Reservoir. I was able to put some of the things I have learned about training to walk a marathon to use. I set a new personal record for the 5K with a time of 50:06 and a 16:08 min/mile pace.

I will keep the journal up to date with my training and the status of my donations. I am trying to raise between $1700 and $2500 for the Society.