Was able to squeeze in a beautiful hilly 9 mile trail run with some friends between the rain fall. #running #trail #hills #vibramfivefingers #fasted #crystalcove #newport (at Crystal Cove State Park)
Sunday, November 30, 2014
Was able to squeeze in a beautiful hilly 9 mile trail run with...
Was able to squeeze in a beautiful hilly 9 mile trail run with some friends between the rain fall. #running #trail #hills #vibramfivefingers #fasted #crystalcove #newport (at Crystal Cove State Park)
Friday, November 28, 2014
Race Recap: Dana Point Turkey Trot (PR)
Yesterday, I ran the Dana Point Turkey Trot for the second time.
I really like the Dana Point Turkey Trot. It’s one of the biggest Turkey Trots in the US and attracts over 15000 runners for the various races. With that there are great sponsorships so the health and fitness expo before, during, and after is one of the better expos. Not to mention attracting a good amount of elite runners. On top of that, it’s one of the bigger events that my run club pushes, so there is always a good contingency of us Snails representing and running. Finally, the course is mostly flat with some gradual climbs and descents. It’s really a great PR course if you start in the first corral.
Last year, I opted to run the “combo” race, which entailed running the 10K and the 5K. I was originally going to sign up for the combo again, but I received a free entry into the 10K from my run club and decided that I would just focus on that. My goal was not just to PR, but to also break the 50 minute mark.
Coming into the race, I knew I had to average an 8:03 to hit 49:59. My original plan was to start at an 8 min mile and feel it out from there. I knew I could sustain 7:38 from my 5K PR earlier in the year. I was able to start in the first (of 3) corrals. I aligned myself towards the middle, as the runners up front were 5-6 min milers.
The race started and I started way too fast. Miles 1 and 2 clocked in at 7:30 and 7:22. There was a slight decline, and I took advantage of it, but I felt that I would pay for it later. Not to mention the initial rush and energy at the start. Mile 3 took a significant dip to 7:40. After Mile 3 I decided with such a fast start, as long as I didn’t go over 8 mins a mile, I would still hit my sub 50 goal, so Mile 4 and 5 came in at 7:49 and 7:56. At this point I wasn’t purposefully holding back, but was being limited by my own fitness. About quarter mile from the finish one of my favorite teammates caught up to me and pushed me to finish strong even though my stomach was screaming. I finished Mile 6 in 7:51 with a 7:12 ".2" push to cross the line.
I crushed my goal with an official time of 48:11. A 4 min PR from last year. I would have preferred a negative split, but I was happy to hit my goal and then some. I definitely need to pace better, and usually do with the longer races. We’ll see how the half marathon next week goes.
Nutrition wise, I did eat carbs the night before and that may have contributed to my stomach issues towards the end of the race. I probably should have stuck low carb as I’m used to, but I’m still weary about these shorter, higher paced races. I will have to work on this as well as my pacing.
In the end it was a great race and a PR. I won’t be top 10 in my age division anytime soon, but knowing I placed in the top 10% makes me feel pretty good.
Most importantly, it was good times spent with great running friends. A great way to start Thanksgiving.
I really like the Dana Point Turkey Trot. It’s one of the biggest Turkey Trots in the US and attracts over 15000 runners for the various races. With that there are great sponsorships so the health and fitness expo before, during, and after is one of the better expos. Not to mention attracting a good amount of elite runners. On top of that, it’s one of the bigger events that my run club pushes, so there is always a good contingency of us Snails representing and running. Finally, the course is mostly flat with some gradual climbs and descents. It’s really a great PR course if you start in the first corral.
Last year, I opted to run the “combo” race, which entailed running the 10K and the 5K. I was originally going to sign up for the combo again, but I received a free entry into the 10K from my run club and decided that I would just focus on that. My goal was not just to PR, but to also break the 50 minute mark.
Coming into the race, I knew I had to average an 8:03 to hit 49:59. My original plan was to start at an 8 min mile and feel it out from there. I knew I could sustain 7:38 from my 5K PR earlier in the year. I was able to start in the first (of 3) corrals. I aligned myself towards the middle, as the runners up front were 5-6 min milers.
The race started and I started way too fast. Miles 1 and 2 clocked in at 7:30 and 7:22. There was a slight decline, and I took advantage of it, but I felt that I would pay for it later. Not to mention the initial rush and energy at the start. Mile 3 took a significant dip to 7:40. After Mile 3 I decided with such a fast start, as long as I didn’t go over 8 mins a mile, I would still hit my sub 50 goal, so Mile 4 and 5 came in at 7:49 and 7:56. At this point I wasn’t purposefully holding back, but was being limited by my own fitness. About quarter mile from the finish one of my favorite teammates caught up to me and pushed me to finish strong even though my stomach was screaming. I finished Mile 6 in 7:51 with a 7:12 ".2" push to cross the line.
I crushed my goal with an official time of 48:11. A 4 min PR from last year. I would have preferred a negative split, but I was happy to hit my goal and then some. I definitely need to pace better, and usually do with the longer races. We’ll see how the half marathon next week goes.
Nutrition wise, I did eat carbs the night before and that may have contributed to my stomach issues towards the end of the race. I probably should have stuck low carb as I’m used to, but I’m still weary about these shorter, higher paced races. I will have to work on this as well as my pacing.
In the end it was a great race and a PR. I won’t be top 10 in my age division anytime soon, but knowing I placed in the top 10% makes me feel pretty good.
Most importantly, it was good times spent with great running friends. A great way to start Thanksgiving.
Thursday, November 27, 2014
What am I thankful for? TIME…
What am I thankful for? TIME…
TIME spent with family this year. From trips to Las Vegas, Canada and even the Philippines. The TIME spent getting closer to family has been invaluable.
TIME with friends, new and old. From old friends I’ve known for 10 to 20+ years, to new friends made through running or by random occurrences. So many people come in and out of our lives, but the there are certain people that put an imprint on your life regardless of how much TIME you’ve known each other.
TIME to run. It’s been an ambitious and successful year so far. Health has been on my side this year and that has given me TIME to do what I love. Whether a weekly run with one of my run clubs, or a big city race. TIME to share my passion with newer runners or TIME to learn from experienced runners.
TIME with God. Through it all, I found the TIME to give thanks to God for the TIME He has given me among many other things.
Even though TIMES aren’t always great and TIMES can be hard, it’s those TIMES where you change, learn, grow, and experience.
TIME is the one thing that cannot be purchased or returned and the one thing that is definitely not guaranteed. So for that, TIME is what I am most thankful for.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone and God bless you all.
Dana Point Turkey Trot 10k done! 48:11 PR! Hit my goal of sub 50...
Dana Point Turkey Trot 10k done! 48:11 PR! Hit my goal of sub 50 finally. Time to eat! #running #dpturkeytrot #asnailspace #vibramfivefingers #10k #turkeytrot (at Dana Point Turkey Trot)
Dana Point Turkey Trot
Dana Point Turkey Trot #running #dpturkeytrot #10k (at Dana Point Turkey Trot)
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Gotta love how easy Amazon makes it to find used hardcover...
Gotta love how easy Amazon makes it to find used hardcover books. If I’m gonna run like crazy, there are few people better to read about running crazy than Dean. Also, this is probably the 10th time I’ve purchased Born To Run. I just keep giving my copy away to people because I love it so much and want to share. #running #reading #books #amazon #amazonprime #deankarnazes
Monday, November 24, 2014
Reflection on a challenge. (2 half marathons, 2 states, 1 day)
Earlier in the year I originally planned to run the Rock N Roll Las Vegas half or possibly full marathon. I found out a few of my friends were running it and put it down on my calendar as a race I would sign up for. Then in April, Disney announced the Avengers Superhero half marathon and it happened to fall on the same day. Being the comic nerd that I am, there was no way I would miss the inaugural running of an Avengers themed race, so considering one was early in the morning and the other in the evening, I thought to myself, why not? If I could run a marathon, I could run a marathon with a break in the middle right?
That led to November 16th, 2014, the day I ran 2 half marathons in 2 states in 1 day.
The biggest part of the challenge was the logistics. Some of the few people to attempt this challenge chose to fly. I chose to drive. Being a former Vegas resident and having family there, I knew I would be staying a few days and would need my car. This essentially set up the “third” race. The race to get from the finish line of race one to the starting line of race two.
Coming into the day I was debating, push it and attempt to hit sub 2 in both races or enjoy the runs as this would be my first time running a Disney and Rock N Roll race. I let the first race decide how the rest of the day was going to go for me.
Avenger’s Superhero Half Marathon (13.1 #10)
What can I say? I was in heaven. Take comic books and all the costumes and nerdiness that could ensue and throw running in the mix.
This was my first Disney race and I am thoroughly impressed with how efficient they were. From the starting corrals, to the course, support, finish line and exit chute setup, to leaving the parking, it was just so efficient and exactly what I would expect from a company/venue that is used to dealing with thousands of people daily.
The race itself was crowded at the start as expected. From what I know about the other Disneyland races, it followed a similar path running through the Disney back lot, briefly into California Adventure, out and back into Disneyland, and then through the streets of Anaheim.
Some highlights of the course were of course running through Disneyland and California Adventure. I was a bit disappointed that the World of Color Wheel was not lit up. It was nice to see the characters, Disney and Avengers related, scattered through out but I didn’t want to stop to takes photos unless there was no line.
Outside of the Disneyland we ran down around Anaheim and faced some unexpected winds. Gusts up to 50 mph and averaging around 20-30 mph. This made the run much more difficult than expected, especially when running near the Santa Ana river trail where dust and debris was flying everywhere and underpasses became wind tunnels. Fortunately, my costume was very run friendly and aerodynamic unlike some others I saw on the course.
It wasn’t all bad outside of Disneyland though. Being Catholic, it was a huge plus for me to run by Christ Cathedral. The entrance to the dreaded Santa Ana river trail was probably one of the more entertaining areas where a group of cosplayers dressed as various comic book characters were there to encourage and high five the runners. There were some very intricate and realistic costumes which was awesome for the comic book nerd that I am.
After the Santa Ana river trail, we ran in and through Angels stadium where they had local school bands cheering us on. The one thing I noticed and appreciated about this race was how involved the local schools were. There were school bands and cheer teams drawn out all over the course to give runners music and encouragement.
After Angels stadium, there was a stretch up through Anaheim and back into the Downtown Disney finishing area. The finish line was once again lined with school bands and rows of spectators. I finished, received my beautiful medal and water immediately and waited for some friends to cross.
The course itself was flat with minimal hills (a couple over and underpasses), but the kicker was the crazy wind.
In terms of running performance, I felt that I definitely held back on this race. I told myself I would gauge how I felt mid race to see if I really want to push for the sub 2. I started off a bit faster than I wanted and with wanting to enjoy the Disneyland park and course, the head winds, and having some stomach issues mid race I decided that I wouldn’t push it. Plus I had a long drive and another race ahead of me. I finished with an unofficial time of 2:03, but for some reason my tag did not register at the start and I had to e-mail Disney to correct. I am still waiting for an official race time.
On a side note, when I signed up for the race, I knew this would be a race I would actually wear a costume for. I knew everyone would be one of the movie Avengers, and being the comic nerd that I am, I had to be a character recognizable, yet uncommon. I went with none other than Deadpool, the Merc With a Mouth. It was the perfect running costume as I was able to find a running suitable shirt and with Halloween passing, some great accessories like dual swords and Deadpool gloves. Not to mention some red running tights which by the way did not work out very well, but I made it through. It was awesome hearing people call out “Deadpool!” in a sea of Captain Americas, Ironmans and Thors.
Overall, I enjoyed the race and I plan on doing this race again next year. More so for the comic book love than anything else.
After a moment to celebrate with some friends, I took off on my drive to Vegas for race #2
Rock N Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon (13.1 #11)
My experience with this race is going to be quite skewed. The one thing I realized after doing these races back to back was while it was an amazing challenge to complete, I didn’t quite get the full experience from either race. More so for RNR Las Vegas.
I was very fortunate that there was no traffic or accidents, and I was able to arrive in Vegas by 2PM. I immediately went to a 24 hour fitness to shower and change into my RNR Vegas run gear.
Being a former Vegas local, I knew most of the back roads and shortcuts and can usually get around the strip easily. I felt that I could park at a specific location I knew of without problem, but I sure did underestimate how bad the race would make getting around town. I ended up parking about a mile away from the pre race village and start line. I still needed to pick up my bib, so I ended up running to the start area. It was a nice little warm up, and I actually felt good before the race start. I picked my bib and made my way to the starting corrals.
This was my first Rock N Roll race and I was surprised to find 49 corrals along with little to no corral control. From running Disney earlier in the day to my last big race in San Francisco having such strict corral rules it felt very unorganized. It was good in a way as people could run with their friends regardless, but in the sea of people it was hard to find anyone. Luckily I was able to find one of my close friends from Vegas and we were able to hang out before running our separate races. And hang out we did. There was over an hour from the gun start to our corral (32) start, which negated any “warm up” effect my run to the start gave me. Not to mention the temperature kept dropping.
As we finally crossed the start line, a setup just as intricate as Disney’s earlier in the day (Disney had fireworks, Rock N Roll had shooting fire), the race run was on. It was a cold night. Mid 40s for most of the race. We started south on the famed Las Vegas boulevard, made a U-turn just before Town Square and back up the strip. This race being one of only two days the strip is completely closed. New Year’s eve being the second. We ran up the strip past all the casinos and up through the seedy area between the strip and downtown Las Vegas where quick wedding chapels, adult book stores, and one hour motels line the road. The real Las Vegas if you ask me. We took a turn into a dark neighborhood and did a small loop which would bring us back into the downtown Las Vegas area. As a half marathoner, we did not actually run through the Fremont street experience, but I think the full marathoners did, which certainly would have been interesting. We made our way back down the Las Vegas boulevard and finished right in front of the Mirage. I received my medal, which was definitely not as nice as the Avenger medal received earlier, and proceeded to wrap myself up in a mylar blanket to shield myself from the cold temperature which I could feel now that I stopped running.
Performance wise, I ran just as I would have expected considering I ran another half marathon hours before. With a half marathon already on them and the cold weather, my legs were fairly tight to start. After the first initial mile, I felt good until about mile 7 or 8 and then it felt very similar to how I feel during the latter miles of a full marathon. It wasn’t a full on “wall”, but legs were definitely tired and being up for so long (no time to nap when you’re driving) really caught up to me. I was pretty consistent, but didn’t completely push myself as hard as I probably could have, keeping in mind that at this point, finishing the challenge was all that it was about and training for LA Marathon would begin the following week. I finished in about 2:17.
I’m not quite sure how I felt about this race/course. As a former Vegas resident I knew what was in store for me as I’ve been on the strip hundreds of times. I was expecting something different, but I honestly don’t know what I was expecting. I also expected to see more of my friends, but with so many people and getting to the race late, it made that difficult. Add in the fact I was on my second half marathon of the day and it was cold, this experience while good just felt like there could have been more to it. Maybe if I would have been able to experience the Rock N Roll as a whole, going to the expo, hanging with friends at the pre race concert, and not being so tired it would have been a much better experience.
With the being said, the overall challenge of doing two races, in two states, in one day is an experience I won’t forget and somewhat makes up for the individual race experiences themselves.
Nutrition
These races were not my fastest races, but I was happy with the outcome. I completed the first race with my usual pre race MCT oil, BCAAs, and Nuun, only taking in water on the course. Upon completion, I immediately took in coconut water to replenish my glycogen stores. This and a packet of cocolate almond butter during my second race would be my only carbs for the day. Post race I also brought some pepperoni packets in my bag check to eat for protein and fat immediately after the Avengers run. During the 4 hour drive between races I had some espresso with heavy cream and some lechon (roasted pork) I pre packed. Pre second race I took in the same MCT oil, BCAAs, and Nuun with water and the prementioned chocolate almond butter packet taken around mile 7 on the course. I felt my energy levels were good for the most part and didn’t really have any stomach issues even after taking in the almond butter packet.
Conclusion and Other Thoughts
It was definitely a challenge and something I may try to do again or maybe even top. Additionally, this challenge led me to meet some others who participated in the challenge and then some. One in particular has inspired me and has opened my mind to multi race days/weekends. While keeping my eyes on the prize and health, it’s definitely something I could possibly incorporate into future training and definitely provides a new dimension to running.
I’ve never been called “insane”, “crazy”, or “just plain stupid” so much in my life, but each time I did, I felt a little bit of pride. Of the 25000 or so people running these races there was only a handful running both. Maybe 50 or so. It felt great to be among limited company. The reality is running this type of mileage is relatively easy. Anyone that has done a marathon or trained for a marathon could easily do the two races. Just like any other distance race, it wasn’t about the physical aspect of it, it was about how much you wanted to complete the goal you set for yourself.
Sunday, November 23, 2014
To think, I wasn’t going to run today… Glad I found...
To think, I wasn’t going to run today… Glad I found some motivation to get out and enjoy a beautiful sunset run around Balboa. #running #lamarathon #training #oclife #balboa #sunset (at Balboa Island, Newport Beach)
Saturday, November 22, 2014
Training is easier when you have a great group of friends...
Training is easier when you have a great group of friends running by your side. My LA marathon training started off well today. Its going to be a great journey. #running #runcrew #runfam #lamarathon #marathon #training #nobodywalksinLA #teamworldvision #werunoc (at Newport Upper Back Bay)
11/22/14 - Saturday Morning Run (LA Marathon Training Begins)
First official day of LA Marathon training. Although, technically, according to my schedule it’s week 2. (I had my races last week)
Had a great run with the run group.
Goal for the day was 11 miles at sub 9 pace.
Ended up with 11.1 at 8:36 pace.
I tried Generation UCANN Superstarch for the first time. Took it about an hour before my run. It was a bit difficult to take down. I can see how many people say it’s chalky, but it’s not horrible. It just took a lot of water. Much more than I usually drink pre run. Ended up having to run to the restroom before the run, but the good thing is I didn’t have to go during. I will have to read more on Superstarch tips and techniques. I also took down 3000 mg of MCT oil.
Overall, I felt pretty good on the run. I usually never eat anything before running so this was a big experiment. I was able to push 8:30ish pace for most of the 11 miles so I’m pretty happy with the day.
It’s a few months late, and I have a very valid excuse...
It’s a few months late, and I have a very valid excuse why, but finally here is the video from Ragnar Napa Valley. Such a great time with such an awesome team!
Team Grapes of Wrath
http://ift.tt/1HAuaQj
#running #ragnarnapa #ragnarrelay #grapesofwrath #napa #sanfrancisco
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Vibram Five Fingers using one of my photos (with permission) for...
Vibram Five Fingers using one of my photos (with permission) for their social marketing. Proud Vibram Five Finger supporter here. By @vibramfivefingers “Get out of bed and get your #FiveFingers on! You’ve only got 7 days of training left before your local #TurkeyTrot. Share with us your best tips for getting up and moving in the morning. #Vibram #instafit #run #regram @amaur88” via @PhotoRepost_app #running #vibramfivefingers #minimalistrunner
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Sunday, November 16, 2014
Disney to Vegas complete! #stripatnight #rnrlasvegas #running #disney2lv #anaheimtovegas #avengershalf #smashthehalf
via Instagram http://ift.tt/1xGrIC9
Rock N Roll Las Vegas half marathon #running #disney2lv #anaheimtovegas #race2of2
via Instagram http://ift.tt/1vg9WrB
Avengers half marathon #running #rundisney #smashthehalf #avengershalf
via Instagram http://ift.tt/1yJGpn8
My Return (A year PLUS of running and a crazy challenge I am about to embark on)
I have decided to make my return here. I’ve actually really missed it.
This is a not so quick recap of an eventful year PLUS.
Since my last post I have been extremely focused on my running:
I’ve been involved with the local running community including running regularly with Nike and Lululemon run clubs and becoming an officer for a prominent run club here in Southern California.
I returned to racing with a couple of 5Ks in the summer of 2013.
In August I came across the www.runketo.com group and started reading up on the low carb/ketogenic research of doctors Phinney, Volek, Attia, and Noakes. I practiced a low carb/ketogenic diet before in spurts, but honestly never really knew the full science behind it. I didn’t realize how beneficial it would be to running, especially longer distances. Even more importantly, I didn’t realize how beneficial it would be to my health. In September I began my low carb/ketogenic way of eating.
I started using this nutritional plan for my training for the the 2013 Long Beach half marathon. This was my “comeback” race and I was able to complete it in 2:02. A 13 minute PR, but not quite my goal of sub 2:00. Long Beach was the first race of the 3 race series known as the Beach Cities Challenge.
I ran the Surf City 10 miler again and then ran the combo race at the Dana Point Turkey trot. This entailed running the 10k, and an hour or so later running the 5K. I PR’d both races, but ended up developing an achilles issue from that.
December was quiet, partly due to me resting my achilles, but also because it was the calm before the storm…
I was already registered for the New Year’s Race LA half marathon in Jan. The race I did for my first half marathon the year before.
I was set to pace the Surf City half marathon with my running club in February. Race 2 of 3 of the Beach Cities Challenge. To complete the Beach Cities Challenge I would need to finish the half or full marathon at the OC Marathon in May. If I opted to run the full, I would earn the Double Dog Dare 39.3 Dogtag medal that Surf City and OC were putting together as well. At that point I decided that I would just go for it. I was contemplating which full marathon to make my first and what better way than to earn 3 medals while running around my local running area.
While at the expo for the New Year’s Race LA, I found out that Hollywood Half Marathon in April was partnering up with the New Year’s Race LA to set up a “Best of LA” challenge. It fell perfectly in schedule with a day I was scheduled to run 13 miles for my marathon training anyway, so why not?
If that wasn’t enough, my local running group was helping people who were running the LA Marathon for charity. I had no plans to run, but was helping some of them train. A week before the race, I was asked to run for an injured runner who was doing the charity relay. I would be running the second half of the marathon and since I was scheduled to do 15 miles that weekend for marathon training I decided to just add a couple miles on before my leg.
The beginning of 2014 ended up being a half marathon a month for the first four months, culminating in me running my first FULL marathon in May.
It was an ambitious plan, especially for someone that was injured the year before, but I felt I was much smarter this time around and had the support of some amazing runners.
New Years Race LA Half Marathon (13.1 #3): My second year running this race. This year the course was much hillier than the first year, and people were already complaining the year before. I was still recovering from my Achilles issues from the Turkey Trot so I took easier but completed the race in a faster time than the previous year, but not near my PR set at Long Beach. It was a good race and I was able to run with some really good friends. Can’t really ask for much more than that.
Surf City Half Marathon (13.1 #4): I ended up as an official pacer for this race through my run club. I opted to use this as a training run and was set to pace the 2:45 half marathon. This was easy and hard at the same time.
LA Marathon Charity Relay (13.1 #5): This was a last minute decision to run this race, but I’m glad I did. It was great to support my friends and Team World Vision. I will never forget the pride I felt running with these people who don’t normally run, many who it was their first time running more than 5 miles, many who were attempting their first marathon, all for the passion they had in the cause. Even a someone with some running experience, it was not easy though. I used it as a training run and added 2 miles to my half marathon distance. This would be my longest run to date and I found that heat would be my nemesis in running.
Hollywood Half Marathon (13.1 #6): This was really just a throw in race to get the Best of LA challenge medal. I learned I could run a half marathon at a decent pace without taking any gus, gels, and sports drinks. Just on course water.
OC Marathon (26.2 #1): This was the culmination of my races/training. My first FULL marathon. I was running with a friend who was aiming to complete here first marathon also and ran at her paces the whole way. I also had many of the people in my run clubs “pit crew” and pace for us at various points of the race. It was such a great experience. I ended up finishing in 4:43 with more left in tank.
A week before the OC Marathon, I decided to sign up for the San Francisco full which was in a little more than 2 months. My friend was running it too and talked me into it. After OC marathon I took a vacation to the Philippines for a couple weeks and rested and recovered. Upon returning I found a plan for multiple marathons in a short period of time and modified it. I figured I would use the base I built for OC, but add in some hill work to be ready for the San Francisco hills. Also, being on the low carb/ketogenic way of eating, my recovery, even during my original training, was amazing.
Before the San Francisco marathon in July, I decided that I would continue try to do at least a half marathon a month by signing up for the Flight of Fire Trail Half Marathon in Red Rock/Las Vegas, NV.
The Flight of Fire Trail Half Marathon (13.1 #7): would be my first trail marathon, and is still to date my hardest race. I started way too fast and I while I was doing well on the technical terrain, it took a toll on me by the end. I was able to finish, and this will still be one of my prouder finish. I plan to get revenge on the course next year.
San Francisco Marathon (26.2 #2): My friend that I originally planned to do the race with ended up dropping out of the race. I decided that this race would be my own. This was technically my second marathon, but it might as well have been my first. While I enjoyed my “first” marathon because of my run crews support, it was a team effort and I was pacing my friend. This one was all me. No pit crew, no “training partner”, my pace, my plan, my race. My training and nutrition were pretty much on point as the hills were not a big issue and I was able to hit my goal and set a PR of 4:29 on a much more difficult course and without using one gu, gel, or food. Post race, my recovery was been amazing.
America’s Finest Half Marathon (13.1 #8): This would be my August race. I was able to finally break 2 hours and set my half marathon PR at 1:56. This was a day after going to the Stone Brewing Company beerfest and not having quite a nutrition plan I’m used to.
Birthday Run (32 for 32): For the past couple of years, I would run a race on my birthday weekend. Usually it was a local 5K. My birthday fell on a Saturday and this year, I decided that I wanted to do something longer. At least a half marathon, a marathon, or possibly a 50K. There was actually a 50K on my birthday, and I had my sites set on it, but I was disappointed to find out they did not allow Vibram Five Fingers. At that point I decided, that I would run my own 50Kish by running my age (32) in miles. I connected all of my favorite run clubs/routes into one epic run. The route wound through a good part of Orange County starting in Mission Viejo, running through the trails of Aliso Woods, through Laguna Beach, Corona Del Mar, Newport Coast, Back Bay, and ending in Costa Mesa. Highlights included an 800 ft ascent through Aliso and Wood Canyons wilderness park with amazing views as payoff, running through the beautiful beach view neighborhoods of Laguna Beach, running along the coast, passing by all my weekly run spots.I was fortunate enough to have a couple of awesome friends/inspiring runners who would attempt to complete the entire run with me as well as friends who joined in at various points and even pit crew’d for us. It was an epic way to celebrate my birthday.
Ragnar Napa Valley Ultra Team: My race for September was a relay. I ended up joining a Ragnar Napa Valley Ultra team. Ragnar is a relay race that spans about 200 miles and is usually split between 12 people. The Ultra team would do the 200 some miles with 6 people. Each person would take 3 legs on the 205 mile course from San Francisco to Napa. My legs ended up being 11, 15, and 12 mile respectively. You run non stop, through the night, whenever it’s your turn to run. When you’re not in running, your in your van with teammates. Resting when you can, eating what you can, and just having a great time. This was easily my favorite race. It was truly a team effort, and I had a great team.
Long Beach Fantastic! Half Marathon (13.1 #9): This was a last minute race to keep my streak going. It was a small race of around 20-30 people. I was just going to take it easy, but I realized part of the way through that I was in a good position, so I ended up pushing it a bit and ended up winning 3rd place. It wasn’t a PR, but it felt great to actually “race”. I usually run these races just to finish.
This brings me to today…
In a few hours I will be attempting to run 2 half marathons in 2 different states in the same day.
The Avengers Half Marathon in the morning and the Las Vegas Rock N Roll Half Marathon at night. I was originally planning on running the Las Vegas half or full marathon only, but when they announced the Avenger’s half, being a comic book nerd, I could not pass it up. I know I can run the 26.2 miles, but there will be 250 some mile drive in between the two which will provide the biggest obstacle. I look forward to this challenge though and it will be a great time with friends at both races.
This is a not so quick recap of an eventful year PLUS.
Since my last post I have been extremely focused on my running:
I’ve been involved with the local running community including running regularly with Nike and Lululemon run clubs and becoming an officer for a prominent run club here in Southern California.
I returned to racing with a couple of 5Ks in the summer of 2013.
In August I came across the www.runketo.com group and started reading up on the low carb/ketogenic research of doctors Phinney, Volek, Attia, and Noakes. I practiced a low carb/ketogenic diet before in spurts, but honestly never really knew the full science behind it. I didn’t realize how beneficial it would be to running, especially longer distances. Even more importantly, I didn’t realize how beneficial it would be to my health. In September I began my low carb/ketogenic way of eating.
I started using this nutritional plan for my training for the the 2013 Long Beach half marathon. This was my “comeback” race and I was able to complete it in 2:02. A 13 minute PR, but not quite my goal of sub 2:00. Long Beach was the first race of the 3 race series known as the Beach Cities Challenge.
I ran the Surf City 10 miler again and then ran the combo race at the Dana Point Turkey trot. This entailed running the 10k, and an hour or so later running the 5K. I PR’d both races, but ended up developing an achilles issue from that.
December was quiet, partly due to me resting my achilles, but also because it was the calm before the storm…
I was already registered for the New Year’s Race LA half marathon in Jan. The race I did for my first half marathon the year before.
I was set to pace the Surf City half marathon with my running club in February. Race 2 of 3 of the Beach Cities Challenge. To complete the Beach Cities Challenge I would need to finish the half or full marathon at the OC Marathon in May. If I opted to run the full, I would earn the Double Dog Dare 39.3 Dogtag medal that Surf City and OC were putting together as well. At that point I decided that I would just go for it. I was contemplating which full marathon to make my first and what better way than to earn 3 medals while running around my local running area.
While at the expo for the New Year’s Race LA, I found out that Hollywood Half Marathon in April was partnering up with the New Year’s Race LA to set up a “Best of LA” challenge. It fell perfectly in schedule with a day I was scheduled to run 13 miles for my marathon training anyway, so why not?
If that wasn’t enough, my local running group was helping people who were running the LA Marathon for charity. I had no plans to run, but was helping some of them train. A week before the race, I was asked to run for an injured runner who was doing the charity relay. I would be running the second half of the marathon and since I was scheduled to do 15 miles that weekend for marathon training I decided to just add a couple miles on before my leg.
The beginning of 2014 ended up being a half marathon a month for the first four months, culminating in me running my first FULL marathon in May.
It was an ambitious plan, especially for someone that was injured the year before, but I felt I was much smarter this time around and had the support of some amazing runners.
New Years Race LA Half Marathon (13.1 #3): My second year running this race. This year the course was much hillier than the first year, and people were already complaining the year before. I was still recovering from my Achilles issues from the Turkey Trot so I took easier but completed the race in a faster time than the previous year, but not near my PR set at Long Beach. It was a good race and I was able to run with some really good friends. Can’t really ask for much more than that.
Surf City Half Marathon (13.1 #4): I ended up as an official pacer for this race through my run club. I opted to use this as a training run and was set to pace the 2:45 half marathon. This was easy and hard at the same time.
LA Marathon Charity Relay (13.1 #5): This was a last minute decision to run this race, but I’m glad I did. It was great to support my friends and Team World Vision. I will never forget the pride I felt running with these people who don’t normally run, many who it was their first time running more than 5 miles, many who were attempting their first marathon, all for the passion they had in the cause. Even a someone with some running experience, it was not easy though. I used it as a training run and added 2 miles to my half marathon distance. This would be my longest run to date and I found that heat would be my nemesis in running.
Hollywood Half Marathon (13.1 #6): This was really just a throw in race to get the Best of LA challenge medal. I learned I could run a half marathon at a decent pace without taking any gus, gels, and sports drinks. Just on course water.
OC Marathon (26.2 #1): This was the culmination of my races/training. My first FULL marathon. I was running with a friend who was aiming to complete here first marathon also and ran at her paces the whole way. I also had many of the people in my run clubs “pit crew” and pace for us at various points of the race. It was such a great experience. I ended up finishing in 4:43 with more left in tank.
A week before the OC Marathon, I decided to sign up for the San Francisco full which was in a little more than 2 months. My friend was running it too and talked me into it. After OC marathon I took a vacation to the Philippines for a couple weeks and rested and recovered. Upon returning I found a plan for multiple marathons in a short period of time and modified it. I figured I would use the base I built for OC, but add in some hill work to be ready for the San Francisco hills. Also, being on the low carb/ketogenic way of eating, my recovery, even during my original training, was amazing.
Before the San Francisco marathon in July, I decided that I would continue try to do at least a half marathon a month by signing up for the Flight of Fire Trail Half Marathon in Red Rock/Las Vegas, NV.
The Flight of Fire Trail Half Marathon (13.1 #7): would be my first trail marathon, and is still to date my hardest race. I started way too fast and I while I was doing well on the technical terrain, it took a toll on me by the end. I was able to finish, and this will still be one of my prouder finish. I plan to get revenge on the course next year.
San Francisco Marathon (26.2 #2): My friend that I originally planned to do the race with ended up dropping out of the race. I decided that this race would be my own. This was technically my second marathon, but it might as well have been my first. While I enjoyed my “first” marathon because of my run crews support, it was a team effort and I was pacing my friend. This one was all me. No pit crew, no “training partner”, my pace, my plan, my race. My training and nutrition were pretty much on point as the hills were not a big issue and I was able to hit my goal and set a PR of 4:29 on a much more difficult course and without using one gu, gel, or food. Post race, my recovery was been amazing.
America’s Finest Half Marathon (13.1 #8): This would be my August race. I was able to finally break 2 hours and set my half marathon PR at 1:56. This was a day after going to the Stone Brewing Company beerfest and not having quite a nutrition plan I’m used to.
Birthday Run (32 for 32): For the past couple of years, I would run a race on my birthday weekend. Usually it was a local 5K. My birthday fell on a Saturday and this year, I decided that I wanted to do something longer. At least a half marathon, a marathon, or possibly a 50K. There was actually a 50K on my birthday, and I had my sites set on it, but I was disappointed to find out they did not allow Vibram Five Fingers. At that point I decided, that I would run my own 50Kish by running my age (32) in miles. I connected all of my favorite run clubs/routes into one epic run. The route wound through a good part of Orange County starting in Mission Viejo, running through the trails of Aliso Woods, through Laguna Beach, Corona Del Mar, Newport Coast, Back Bay, and ending in Costa Mesa. Highlights included an 800 ft ascent through Aliso and Wood Canyons wilderness park with amazing views as payoff, running through the beautiful beach view neighborhoods of Laguna Beach, running along the coast, passing by all my weekly run spots.I was fortunate enough to have a couple of awesome friends/inspiring runners who would attempt to complete the entire run with me as well as friends who joined in at various points and even pit crew’d for us. It was an epic way to celebrate my birthday.
Ragnar Napa Valley Ultra Team: My race for September was a relay. I ended up joining a Ragnar Napa Valley Ultra team. Ragnar is a relay race that spans about 200 miles and is usually split between 12 people. The Ultra team would do the 200 some miles with 6 people. Each person would take 3 legs on the 205 mile course from San Francisco to Napa. My legs ended up being 11, 15, and 12 mile respectively. You run non stop, through the night, whenever it’s your turn to run. When you’re not in running, your in your van with teammates. Resting when you can, eating what you can, and just having a great time. This was easily my favorite race. It was truly a team effort, and I had a great team.
Long Beach Fantastic! Half Marathon (13.1 #9): This was a last minute race to keep my streak going. It was a small race of around 20-30 people. I was just going to take it easy, but I realized part of the way through that I was in a good position, so I ended up pushing it a bit and ended up winning 3rd place. It wasn’t a PR, but it felt great to actually “race”. I usually run these races just to finish.
This brings me to today…
In a few hours I will be attempting to run 2 half marathons in 2 different states in the same day.
The Avengers Half Marathon in the morning and the Las Vegas Rock N Roll Half Marathon at night. I was originally planning on running the Las Vegas half or full marathon only, but when they announced the Avenger’s half, being a comic book nerd, I could not pass it up. I know I can run the 26.2 miles, but there will be 250 some mile drive in between the two which will provide the biggest obstacle. I look forward to this challenge though and it will be a great time with friends at both races.
Saturday, November 15, 2014
Almost time to #smashthehalf! #avengershalf #rundisney #marvel #deadpool #running #disney2lv #anaheimtovegas #2halfs1day
via Instagram http://ift.tt/1tVZled
Friday, November 14, 2014
Getting crafty with it... Made a paracord survival bracelet to rock during my races since I lost my pink and purple "livestrong" bands. As usual, pink in memory of my grandma and purple in memory of my sister. Both will be on my mind as I run my races this weekend. #diy #crafts #bracelet #survivalbracelet #running #runforareason #nikeplus #fuelband #worththetanline
via Instagram http://ift.tt/14oO69z
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Throwback Thursday to just a couple months ago at Ragnar Napa Valley,where I ran as a part of an awesome Ragnar ultra team. The closest I got to training for what I'm going to attempt this weekend. Ill be doing my own personal Ragnar as I run the Avengers half marathon in Anaheim in the morning, drive to Las Vegas, then run the Las Vegas half marathon at night. #tbt #ragnar #ragnarnapa #running #anaheimtovegas #disney2lv #smashthehalf #avengershalf #stripatnight #rnrlasvegas #rundisney
via Instagram http://ift.tt/1oTD2tP
Sunday, November 9, 2014
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Racing the sunset... Had a later start than I wanted but I was able to complete the 15 mile/1500 ft elevation gain Red Rock Canyon scenic loop. Something I've wanted to do since the days when I lived here and hiked the area. #redrockcanyon #running #fasted #lowcarbrunner #fitness #vibramfivefingers #nikeplus #instarunners #furtherfasterforever #lasvegas #nevada #sunset #disney2lv #2weeks
via Instagram http://ift.tt/1usXnZG
Sunday, November 2, 2014
In the spirit of big city races, this happened this week... #running #lamarathon #mynextbigrace #nobodywalksinLA #NYCsomeday
via Instagram http://ift.tt/1t1YBDN
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