Sank's Running Rants

Stone Cat and January

2012-02-01T11:19:00.001-05:00

FIRST ULTRA:
Well I've made my decision. I had been kicking around the idea of doing the Vermont 50 in September, but after researching races, figuring out my summer and trying to plan things out I've decided to do the Stone Cat 50 miler in November of this year.

I think that coupled with the fact that Stone Cat is a loop course (4 at 12.5 mile per loop), obviously a much flatter course than Vermont, me being a novice at this distance, and that the finish times across the board seem to be faster; I went with Stone Cat.

Even if I do or don't plan on entering the Western States' lottery, knowing that it is a faster course, makes the 11 hour WS100 qualifying time more optainable if I decided to try to get into Western States 2013, also helped me to pick Stone Cat in the end. But WS is obviously a much bigger commitment, but we can cross the moss covered trail bridge when and if we come to it.

ASSISTANCE:
While researching races for 2012, I keep coming across the name of an experienced and fairly successful trail runner in my town. I sent him out a note and he was nice enough to respond. And is willing to help me when I hit a question regarding training at the ultra's and regarding racing the longer distances on the trails.

And no I'm not talking about Ben Nephew from team Inov, who is extremely successful, who I have to admit, even though I have spent almost 99% of my 49 years in Mansfield, MA, I have never seen Ben running on the roads. But I digress.....

JANUARY 2012:
I finished January with a montly total of 69 miles. Having not run since my dad passed away on August 4th of last year, I honestly wasn't sure where I was going to be at the end of the month as I was only trying to keep track of having a weekly increase, while trying to build up the tendon strength in the right ankle. The ankle feels a thousand times better than it did at the beginning of the month, so I am looking to finish February somewhere around 105-110 miles for the 29 days. I think it is realistic goal and will keep my ankle happy (especially if I continue to do the exercises I found on line).

Enough for now, Happy February to you all. Tomorrow is one of my favorite holidays of the year. Seriously it is. I mean how can you not love a holiday based around a rodent and if he sees his shadow.

Happy Ground Hog's Day everyone

Be Well ~ Sank

Belleville Pond 10k Trail Race

2012-01-28T13:58:00.001-05:00

First of all I want to send out props to Mike Galoob and crew; who ran a well organized, well marked course, but most importantly a very fun race today.

Kate and I at the finish

I had been kicking around the idea of jumping up to a 10k trail race when I saw this one listed on line. Not knowing anything about it, I decided to run it. And later talked my fitness queen niece, Katelyn into running it with me.

Got there early, on what turned out to be a beautiful January day. Sunny and mid-40's. It had rained a lot yesterday so I expected a muddy course, but it drained out really well, and with the exception of a very few spots the footing was pretty good.

I had planned on really just using this as a training run, but per usual for me I went out to fast and the quads would remind me of it around mile 4, but not enough to stop me. Had planned on running somewhere around 1:15, with not knowing the trail, the anticipated mud, and just not in shape to run a heck of a lot faster. But came in just over 1:06, so I was pretty happy with the day as a whole.

I continue to be very happy with the NB Minimus, although I am still working on perfecting my stride and midfoot strike, but that will come in time. No ref'ing today, but will get a run over at Gilbert tomorrow morning, before I have to head to coach and then two late games to ref.

Until then, Be Well ~ Sank

50 degrees in New England in January - gotta love it

2012-01-24T11:15:00.003-05:00

I had seen this video last week and meant to post it, but never got around to it. So I'll post it now. With the 2 small snowfalls we had last week, it's a good motivational tool on those days that you dont feel like getting out there in the cold and wet. Although I have to admit that so far this year, I have looked forward to getting out there in whatever the weather was, and actually looked forward to the different scenarios that were thrown at me; be it from weather, work and life restrictions, or time of day.

So with temps today in the low 50's, I am definitely going to get my butt out on (HOPEFULLY) some trails tonight. Just got a pair of Knucklelights, that I tried out last night on the roads. So I am going to strap them on tonight along with my headlamp, and do all I can to hit Gilbert. After a couple runs, I'll do a quick review on them.

So enjoy the video, the scenery is absolutely beautiful. Not to mention that Anton Krupicka makes it look so effortless.

Be well ~ Sank

Zombie Run in Amesbury MA May 2012

2012-01-23T11:28:00.002-05:00

Now this is a motivated training run.

Scared and close to a decision

2012-01-19T11:03:00.001-05:00

Ok so for those of you that come over from Dailymile I know that some of what I write is repetitive, but I can go in more detail and rant on more over here. Anyway, so last night by the time ran some errands, got home, and took a few minutes to hang with my roommates (Jack and Belle), I grabbed my stuff to hit the trails for a cold early evening run. I had tried out a headlamp that I had bought at a local discount tool store, which I have to admit, with the exception of that it shines a tad low, the fit and stability of it just work for me. So I hit Gilbert a little after dusk, and started up the trails. I hadn't really gone out at night on the trails before so it was all new to me. The wind was really whistling and as the night got darker and colder, all the little sounds started getting a lot clearer and even more scarier.

At one point I was running next to this pond, and I don't know what the hell made that noise, but it wasn't human and I wasn't sticking around to ask. At this point, I just want to get the run over and quick. I stayed on the fire roads and just got chugging. On my way back I had to go thru this one section that is very dark even in the daytime, but it is really really creepy at night. Once again, I either heard something or my very active imagination heard something, but I was about a 1/2 mile from being out and I took off.

Well until I stubbed my toe on a rock, went down pretty good and (which I would really find out later) tore up my left knee pretty good. But fear is a good motivator. The hell with the knee, I was getting the hell out of there. Whatever creature was in there wasn't going to eat me while I was checking out a few scrapes. So up I bounced and out there I went. You know in hindsight, although I was admittedly pretty scared, it was fun as hell! Can't wait to do it again.

I've been doing some research and looking into it, and I'm really leaning towards doing the Vermont 50 miler this September. I know it's a lot of work and mileage, but I know that I will find the time to get it done. With a goal of less than 10:59:59 it would also make me eligible for entry in the Western States Lottery for the 2013 race. Probably getting a bit a head of myself, but what the hell, that's what goals and aspirations are for, right?

Enjoy your day, Be Well ~ Sank

Weekend project

2012-01-17T10:44:00.000-05:00

Woke up this morning and cautiously put my foot to the ground, wondering how my right ankle was going to react after yesterday's 4.6 mile trail run in Gilbert. Nothing, nothing at all. Cant tell you enough how pysched I was of that. I was really concerned as this ankle has been an issue for me for a long long time, and how it was going to handle the change over to the NB Minimus (still loving them) and the increase in mileage as I start to increase it for my 50k (that I havent selected yet).

Ankle history: I had a metatarsal ankle fusion surgery back when I was in high school. Basically they graphed a bone off my hip and fused the small bones that run to the ankle together. It was so long ago I dont really remember why, just that my parents used to tell me that I limped when I was a kid. It never stopped me from doing sports, but I was generally the last kid doing laps. ANYWAY.... enough with the history lesson. I had gone to a Dr a few years ago, when I started running again after taking about 10 years off after doing marathons and tons of triathlons. The Dr said that I was just going to have to deal with it. No shit, really?!?!?!

So back to today. I am so happy that I passed this test. Will take today off as a rest day (although I really have the itch to hit the trails again).

Renovation update: Some of you that read the blog had commented on my renovation project so I figured I would update you to this weekend's project. Last post on the renovation I showed the door and window I had put in. This past week/weekend, I finished the removal of the two 8 ft sliders and the replacement of them with the 5 36inch double hung windows. Will insulate them this week and them move over the heat to the mudroom that never had it. I know Jack and Belle (my 2 chocolate labs) will be happy to have some additional heat in their room.

Enough for now, Be well ~ Sank

Two tests two passes

2012-01-16T15:47:00.000-05:00

After bailing out of my last two games refereeing (basketball) yesterday with my sore ankle, I was tentative about going out today but after taking the day off to help out my mom, I decided to test out the ankle, and get another run in with the NB Minimus.
Per usual, I went over to F Gilbert State Forest in Foxborough, and started on the Heart Trail. It starts with a fairly tough rocky techinical trail, but it seems to get the legs going early. The ankle felt good after the first 1/2 mile or so, so I kept branching off to longer trails that I knew had cutbacks to the entrance if I needed them. I did have to walk a couple of the steeper uphills, but all in all I was extremely happy with my ankle, the longest trail run of the year and how the Minimus feel.
Probably going to end up taking tomorrow off as Tuesday are an extremely long day, but after today Wednesday cant come soon enough.
Until then, Be Well ~ Sank

Misc items

2012-01-13T11:11:00.002-05:00

Been kind of a weird week between work, home, some 24-36 hour bug that dragged me down a bit and just life in general. But I did want to touch on a few things I've been thinking about so I could clear out some space in my head for some other useless stuff.

Minimus - Well I ended up returning the Minimus that I bought on ebay (the vendor was awesome and quick with the return). Anyway so I went down to CitySports on Boylston St in Boston and bought the MT10 with the 4mm drop. Rushed home, changed and raced out to F Gilbert State Forest Tuesday night. It was past dusk and I forgot my headlamp in the rush, so I was running very carefully in the dark, but all in all I was pleased. I had to go a size larger so I was concerned that I was going to have issues with the toe box on the downhills, but they stayed snug around my feet and comfortable. They had a similar feel to my VFF (Vibram Five Fingers) but maybe the lack of having my toes separated gave me more of a comfort level when going over the roots and rocks. I also have been wearing them off and on to try to get my feet used to the difference in lift but as of now I am very happy with the shoes.

Dailymile - I had been kicking around in the past with Dailymile. For those of you not familiar with it, it's kind of a runner/triathlete/athlete specific version of Facebook. Once set up (which is extremely easy) it interfaces/sync's with the Garmin and inputs the information over to Dailymile. It then posts on the site keeping track of runs, courses, etc. But I have to say that most important to me, is the motivation and camaraderie that all of the athletes show towards one another. Regardless of the pace, length of activity, etc... it seems that everyone is very supportive. Just another small help on those days when you need it.

Race Planning - Trying to not get ahead of myself too much, but although my running this year is in it's infancy, I am very happy with my running to date and that my ankle soreness is bearable while I am working on strengthening it. It is fairly easy to find a 5k or 10k any weekend (especially on roads), but I am trying to decide on a 50k for mid-summer and perhaps a 50m for the fall. But am understandably nervous about trying to figure out if I will be ready to run it in that short a time. Nothing ventured nothing gained, I know, but ........

Enough for now. Can't wait for the weekend to hit the trails. Have some renovations to do, and I'm refereeing 7 games, but I am definitely going to find time to strap on the new shoes and explore Gilbert.
Have a great weekend,
Be Well ~ Sank

PLEASE WATCH THIS VIDEO

2012-01-10T14:57:00.001-05:00

I was going to take a moment to bitch about the NB minimus that I ordered on ebay that were the wrong size and that I have to send them back, and then how I had to go and actually hit a store and try on a new pair..............blah, blah, F'ing blah.

But someone sent me this video, and it kind of puts things in perspective. I hope you have 5:04 minutes to watch it.
Hey if you read this blog, it means chances are strong you run and are outside.
PLEASE WATCH THIS, and send it to people you know.
Be well ~ Sank

First week, Birthday wishes and Thanks

2012-01-09T10:19:00.002-05:00

First week down (well actually 8 days) but I'm digressing early in this post. Actually pretty happy with getting out there 5 times between the trails and roads. The shin has been a little tight during runs, but mostly on those days when I haven't truly stretched it out as much as I should. You would think at my age I would have learned more patience, but..... not really. My ankle (that I had reconstructed using my hip bones many many many years ago) has been a tad sore. But that happens in the beginning of getting back to running. But the same stretches for my shin, also help the ankle.
Hello Stupid (yeah I'm talking to myself here) do you notice any trends here? Old dogs and new tricks I guess.

My RoadID and my new NB Minimus are supposed to be delivered today, so I am very excited about that. The Minimus are the trail version, so with my luck it will probably snow 3 ft, but looking at the weather forecast I think I'll dodge that bullet for a bit. Going to try to keep the same work schedule of getting in super early so I can hit the trails after work. The days are getting longer, but slowly. Still need to master the art of running trails at night.

Going to take today as a rest day, after 3 in a row. To steal Terry Francona's phrase (or maybe it was Jimy Williams - well one of the Red Sox Manager's), it's a marathon not a sprint. Been looking at race calendar's and websites to see which 50k I'm going to do this year. Very anxious and excited. Thinking I can pull that off by May and who knows maybe do the Vermont 50, in the 50 mile catagory.

Happy 10th Birthday to my boy, Jack.

Thanks to EJ, from URG, for her comments the other day. Sometimes, we all need a little reminder and kick in the back-side.

Well that's it for now. Safe running for you all.
Be Well ~ Sank

Minimus

2012-01-06T09:55:00.001-05:00

I've been kicking around the idea of getting some of the New Balance Minimus shoes and yesterday while on ebay I found a pair; my size, at almost $35 less than the retail, and they'll take them back if they dont fit, so I figured, what the heck do I have to lose. Oh and did I mention free shipping too?

So they shipped same day and I should get them on Monday. Can't wait.

And at the same time I found this video about the shoes, but a small insight (well from my perspective anyway) of Anton Krupicka.

Hoping to get a run in tonight, but very tight time constraints so I'm thinking probably not.

Have a good day all,
Be well ~ Sank

Road ID Coupon

2012-01-05T11:22:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone,

I just ordered a Road ID - perhaps you've heard of it. If you haven't, go to their website and check it out. Road ID is a great product that could save your life someday.
When I ordered, they gave me a coupon that I could pass along to my friends. Here's the coupon number: Coupon Number: ThanksTodd9759494
The coupon is good for $1 off any Road ID order placed by 02/05/2012. To order, simply go to RoadID.com or click the link below:

http://www.RoadID.com/?CID=ThanksTodd9759494

If you prefer, you can call them at 800-345-6336.

Be well ~ Sank

2nd run of year and Movie night

2012-01-05T08:37:00.001-05:00

Well I finally got out again last night. Albeit my shortest course, but by the time I got home from work AND the fact that I layered up (it was 18 degrees and windy), I did it. Got home, took the Garmin off, transferred the data, clicked on the internet - NO CONNECTION. WTF's up with that. Something about a Winsock or WindSock or Tubesock error, whatever it is, but no internet connection for me.

Oh well, so I did the Nelson Loop of 2.54 miles. But most importantly I felt really really good. Shins tightened up a little bit (2 brief walk stretch periods) but regardless of the time or not I am very happy with the way the run turned out, especially considering that it was only my 2nd one of the year.

So I ended up posting my miles manually to Dailymile, but hopefully I can get that fixed today. Oh well, if that's the worse thing that happens this week, I'll consider myself lucky.

UNBREAKABLE - Finally had the chance to sitdown last night (skipped the Bruins/Devils game - Bruins kicked the Devils ass BTW) and watch the 2010 WS100 Unbreakable movie. It was a lot of fun to watch and definitely will be on the "need some motivation" movie list. Having never run a 100 mile race, it was eyeopening to see how it goes. It was amazing to see the resilience and drive that Geoff Roes displayed.

I give it and enthusiastic CC

Siskel and Ebert eat your hearts out!

Until next time, Be Well ~ Sank

Yesterday and Tonight

2012-01-03T12:36:00.000-05:00

We'll go back to yesterday first:

Really had planned to trying to get a run in, but I got up earlier, started some construction around the house while the weather was high 40's and just didn't get to the roads. I have a series of windows and sliders that have seen there better days. So I've been looking at the house alot over the past month or so, to see exactly what I wanted to do with it, now that I am back in it completely.

So I started on Saturday by taking out three windows, covering two and enlarging the third opening.

Saturday's work

Yesterday I decided to take out the slider, and put in a new window and a nice big 36 inch wide door with half glass. Really happy with the results.

Inside view

Outside view

Now for today:
For those of you that are not familar with the Western States 100, it is a grueling 100 mile trail race going back to 1974, when Gordy Ainsleigh, decided to attempt the Western States "100 mile - One Day" trail ride on foot. Well 23 hours and 42 minutes later he completed the run and in the process became the founder of modern trail ultrarunning and the Western States 100 was born.

So I came back from vacation today and totally forgot that I had ordered UNBREAKABLE, the documentary of the 2010 race. Here's a link -> CLICK HERE if anyone wants to go look at the website yourself. Cant wait to get home tonight, go for a quick run, and sit down and watch this. I'll review it more in detail in the next couple days.

2012-01-03T12:00:00.000-05:00

I actually stole this from another blog I saw today (stupidly I forgot to write it down so I could give them credit for it - msredrunning/blogspot.com - I think).

Anyway I liked it so I'm stealing it and posting it.

Move Posts later

Be well ~ Sank

It's time...

2011-12-30T18:15:00.000-05:00

Let me just say simply, 2011 YOU SUCK. I cant wait for this F'ING year to be put in the books. And as they say things come in threes, well hows this trifecta for you?
1. Death of one of my best friends. Mark Carbone, a genuine sports fanatic, but most importantly to me; a great guy. Fell in early 2011 down a set of stairs, and passed from complications. Mark, I miss you terribly, and think of you often. And you missed it, the B's won the Cup!
2. Dad - on August 4th at the great age of 97 the greatest man I will ever have the priviledge to know, or the honor and luck to be his son, passed. A real character, and a great and loving man. Not a day goes by that I dont think of him fondly and sadly.
3. Divorce - after 11 years of marriage, I got divorced. Nuff said, on this topic. No need to go into details, or mud slinging. The overwhelming majority of the time, it will be remember fondly.

Ok so all that being said, whats the plan. Well I was going to actually wait until 1/1/12 to start running again. I mean I love these years that start on a Sunday. Talk about starting off your running calendar cleanly in a new year. But I actually got a couple runs in this week, ref'd a few games over 3 days this week. But will start in earnest on Sunday. I am hoping to get in a 50k this year. Actually I guess I should say I AM going to do a 50k this year. Not sure what one, but kind of thinking about the Vermont 50k. Gives me enough time to get my training in. So that's the plan.

Enough for now. I wish you all peace in your lives. A much better 2012, regardless of how you fared this year.

Be well ~ Sank

If you go down to the woods today....

2011-03-16T19:51:00.000-04:00

I have absolutely no idea why that title popped into my head, but now I cant get that stupid song out of my head. Anyway, I FINALLY got on to the trails this past Sunday. I had left the house and it started to drizzle out a bit so I almost turned around but decided ... screw it, I'm going! So off I went to the Gilbert State Forest. The trails hadn't really been touched over the winter so thankfully I knew where I was going and I was really just more interested in lacing up my trail shoes and off the pavement.
Why is it that you see a hole or root on the trails and you take it in "stride" and keep plugging. But... if you see some pothole on the pavement, you get all aggravated that you could twist an ankle or something, OR maybe that's just me.
Anyway, unfortunately I had left my trail running partner, Belle at home this time; which I think was probably a good thing since I didnt have an old shower curtain for her to lay down on afterwards. And about a mile in, I ran across a group of walkers with a rottie and 2 pit bulls. I really am a huge dog guy, but for some reason those 2 breeds just scare the shit out of me. And I couldn't have forgiven myself if something happened to Belle. Yeah a bit paranoid I know, but whatever.....
Anyway, tonight I got home after a bitch of a day at work (been the same for about 3 weeks now) and strapped on the Garmin and figured I would have a speed work out. Not a long run, but my Nelson Loop course but was hoping to break 20 minutes tonight. I go out really quick, keep my breathing under control. Nice strides, run through my hill section, fight thru the last half mile to my house. Look down....and I never started the F-ing Garmin :( Not happy. But there's always another day.
Well enough for now,
Be Well ~ Sank

Wanted: Stretching help

2011-03-05T13:22:00.006-05:00

So I have to admit that back in my foolish youth, having previously run a couple marathons, numerous road races and having done probably close to 100 triathlons; all without a combined 5 total minutes of stretching.

That being said I am now knocking on the door to turning 49, cominh back from numerous life and health issues and started running again.

Problem is I am so damn tight I think that stretching would DEFINITELY help but I dont really know any good ones. Any one have any links or tips they can share with me?

Many thanks,

Be well

Sank

Catching up

2011-02-22T16:17:00.000-05:00

Well it's been a while since I posted anything, so I figured I would just touch base out there.
Well the training continues, although I do have to say that I haven't been in the pool for a bit. I was trying to go 2 or 3 times a week, coupled with the mileage on the roads and the refereeing that I do. A lot of my co-ref's ask me why I sprint following the ball. I do it mostly to get somewhat of a sprint workout in. I generally do anywhere from 3 to 5 games a day (when I do do them) and I have read that a player will generally run 1.6 miles a game and since the ref's dont get any time off (but generally will run 3/4's of the court, I simply track it as 1 mile per game as a sprint workout.
Anyway, I just have to concentrate now on getting some of the weight off, and slowly creeping up my mileage base by the end of March. By mid-March I will get back in the pool and I can hit the bike in April.
That will give me 10-12 weeks before my first triathlon in 11 years, and hopefully a Trail race or two or three or what else I can find this summer and fall.
Until then, Be Well ~ Sank

Still going and going ....

2011-01-25T18:07:00.000-05:00

Ok well maybe I am overstating things here but here it is the 25th of the month and I am still going. The weight doesn't want to seem to drop (although in truth I'm not really watching what I eat) and the speed isn't dropping, but I'm still out there.
I have even started hitting the pool a bit, I even went so far as to sign up for a membership for a (slightly smaller than normal) hotel lap pool fitness center. So instead of 25 yards it's 20 but who the hell cares.
The runs are ok, nothing special, but I am out there still banging away. Been a bit tough with the consistent snow 2 or 3 storms a week (making it a bit slippery) although I have to say that the Yaktrax that I had won in a blog giveaway last year, work pretty well when there isn't any dry spots on the pavement. I hadn't had the chance to try them last year with my neck (pre-surgery).
Oh well, still haven't decided on the triathlon this summer or not, but it hasn't been rulled out either.
Until I get to the keyboard again,
Be Well ~ Sank

Off to a good start

2011-01-17T22:42:00.000-05:00

Granted it is still in it's infancy but I am proud to say that I am still plugging away at my 31 day test run and have hit the pool twice. Now they definitely wasn’t the return of Michael Phelps, but both times was able to get 3 sets of 500, and felt pretty damn good doing it. The numerous snow storms (the last one dropping 20 inches) has made running a bit of a challenge, but I am still excited about getting out and doing workouts.
A little past halfway thru January and we will see how it goes. No biking for a LONG time, not unless Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow and quick, but for now; sneakers and goggles.
Be well ~ Sank

Belgians that hit close to home - The Boston Globe

2011-01-14T13:37:00.000-05:00

Belgians that hit close to home - The Boston Globe

I may have just started to get running again, but I never have quit my love of the malted beverages.

Starting anew

2011-01-07T14:36:00.000-05:00

Well after a long drawn out "break", I honestly believe by the need of a mental not a physical break, I am back at it. This time however I am coming out of this break with a goal.

Near mid-December, Nancy (my wife) asked me about doing the Timberman Tri with her next August '11. After talking about it a while, we both realized that it is more important for me to be her "pit-crew" than participating with her. But it did get me to thinking about jumping back in the Tri pool (no pun intended) again.
Seems like yesterday, but it actually was about a 4 or 5 year span back in the mid-80's when I was doing about 7 to 10 races a year. Although I did actually do the Sharon MA Triathlon back in 2000. But that was more of a curiosity race, as my training and poor running portion showed.

So I am giving myself 31 days (starting January 1st) to see if the desire I had in December (and now 7 days and 3 runs in) is still there and I actually want to give this a go. Hopefully by this time next week, I will have 3 more runs (not counting the miles I put on refereeing) and at least 2 swims under my belt.

Well, til then
Be Well ~ Sank

A must read

2010-10-07T08:41:00.000-04:00

Sorry all for my extended absence from writing, and hope that all of you that read (albeit a small group) are well. I found this via my wife's Facebook page and felt obligated to post it to those of you that have children or just as a message to all of us. Be well, and as my wonderful wife would say - Just Be Nice ~ Sank

my blog: Letter to my daughter ( in the wake of senseless t...: "Hello my girl, I wanted to say hi and tell you how much I miss you and that I hope your classes are going well and that you are having fun ..."

One Step forward....

2010-09-17T11:21:00.000-04:00

Hey all,

Sorry for the prolonged absence. If you have been reading this much over the past year, you know that I have run the gambit of injuries and migraines. Luckily, when I had the 2 cervical discs removed back in March, it eliminated a good amount of the numbness (not mental the physical) and the 2 to 3 migraines I was experiencing a week. Unfortunately it did not eliminate them completely, but I have only had about 4 since March. The 4 however have been real doseys though. Pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and nausea. Sunday, as we were celebrating Catie (my step-daughter's) and my birthday, a day late due to our hectic family schedules, we were just sitting down to eat, and low and behold the migraine aura showed up and within 5 minutes, I lose my eye sight. Puts me in bed early, and keeps me in bed with the exception of about 2 hours all through Monday into Tuesday morning.

Well here it is Friday, and although my eyesight THANKFULLY comes back generally within an hour or so, I am still to a lesser degree experiencing some of the migraine leftovers.

And (I apologize for the unnecessary length of this story) it has kept me off the trails, after I had a nice little roll going there over the past couple weeks. So regardless of everything else, I am finding the time to hit Gilbert with Belle this weekend.

Until then, Be Well ~ Sank

Sore but happy

2010-09-10T14:07:00.000-04:00

Well for the first time a while, I was actually able to hit the trails for two days in a row AND able to get 2 plus 3 milers in. Now I know that that amount is pretty light almost non-existant for Ultra guys. But after dealing with my March surgery and the hamstring issues, I am PSYCHED.

In fact yesterday I jumped out of the car, turned on the GPS on the Garmin and realized I left my 2 hamstring compression wraps at home. It was getting late in the day, and figured I would go out and see how it felt. Worse case I could walk it in, with the side benefit of hearing my owl friend again. Left the lot, went in thru the gated area, and went out the first part of the heart trail. And I by a half mile in, I forgot all about them.
It was a really nice run all in all. Today I have found that my quads are a little sore, but that good type of sore that means that we are making some positive steps.

I am very happy with the slow but steady progression. Tomorrow I hit the big 48, only two more years til I hit a new age group; but I will definately spoil myself to a run, in between shingling the house - again.
Just a short post today.

Be well - Sank

Blog note: I have created 2 new boxes this week. One is to make note of giveaways that I have found on other blogs that I am going to share with the few of you that read mine. And the second is a link to the Eastern New England Trail Series of Trail Races. Hope you find one there that you can run.

Late Dusk Friend

2010-09-09T12:02:00.001-04:00

Well the cooler weather is coming (insert happy face here) but unfortunately along with the cooler late summer nights, come the shorter days. I got out of work yesterday and rushed home (after picking up some dinner staples and the dry cleaning), borrowed Catie's car and hit Gilbert (with an hour timeline as Cate had to work last night).

Not having my usual passenger seat coverage for Belle's dog hair residue, I decided to leave her at home and just get out there and have a nice quiet run for myself. Leaving the parking and lot and up the side path hill, it was somewhat more shaded than usual, but enough light to navigate. However that would change quickly as I got off of some of the wider and more used trails and into some of the more challenging and definately more tree covered pathways.

Things were going relatively normal, when out of the dusk I heard (Click for youtube video of the sound) . Now I had originally thought that it must be the Barred Owl that I seen almost a year ago . I definately knew that it was an owl as it made it's call about 4 times over the course of a 2 to 3 minute span. But it was high up in the trees and with the daylight failing there was no way I was going to be able to see it, so I just kept going.

Today I decided to try to find a website that had the calls of different owl, and low and behold it wasnt a Barred Owl at all but a Great Horned Owl. Damn, I wish I had taken the time and had the light to have been able to see it. Once I crossed over toward the Megley Trail I either fell out of ear shot or the owl simply went quiet.

I have to say it was very cool. Greatly preferred over the screeching Blue Jays that yell at me while I am working on the house. Oh well, just thought I would share the story with you.

Take care and Be well ~ Sank

Post Edit: Isnt that picture awesome?!

Happy Labor Day

2010-09-05T11:43:00.000-04:00

Well just kind of going to rant here for a minute. That brings me to a thought, what exactly is a rant?

Thank you for Google; anyway although I am not going to change the blog name, I guess what I want to do (replacing rant since it isn't really being angry or violent) is to put some thoughts to virtual paper.

Like most people I can go off on rants, but try not to, as the long and short term results are generally not worth the ramifications. But I digress.

The physical benefits of laceing back on the running shoes generally are summed up by; feeling better as I am able to get back into some sort of shape, the comradery of being on the trails with Belle, but most importantly the mental aspect.

I can tend to get into these overwhelmed mental standpoints where the work vs. tasks vs. home life vs. husband vs. father vs. son vs. boss vs (insert more here) become so heavy in my mind that it is hard to put them in the correct places; both in priority and importance. For those of you that have ever been in a Spencer's Gifts (are those stores even still around?) anyway it is like when you went into that store and saw that oversized lightbulb contraption with the lightning bouncing off the sides. If you put your finger to the glass the lightning would concentrate to your fingertip. Really cool; and as a kid you always had to try it.

Again thank you Google (I guess it is called a Nitrogen bulb). Anyway for me the running is a way to simply shut off the lightning and to put all the roles I play into there proper place. Not that I am able or should put the responsibilities of life away, just be able to put them where they belong.

Honestly this is not what I thought the blog was going to go today, as I had thought that I would talk about getting back into Gilbert State Forest on a beautiful post Hurricane Earl sunny Saturday. Not running as far as I wanted but more than happy with how it went. Nancy is off in Wyoming (I'm kicking myself for not having her sign on out there as it is one of a few states that hasn't visit the blog). She's out visiting her brother Eddie and family. The kids are all at home, relunctantly getting ready for school on Wednesday. And I am here doing jobs 'bout the house, trying to hit the trails a few times over this long weekend, and RANTing to the few that read this.

I hope that you are where you need to be in mind and body, that you can keep things in there proper place, and most importantly,

Be well ~ Sank

A great running timeline - please read - Thanks JD

2010-09-02T11:52:00.000-04:00

For those that may not read or click on my blogs I read list, take a few minutes to read this one from JD. A very enjoyable and fun read.
Click here to read
Be well - Sank

September already?

2010-09-01T09:56:00.000-04:00

Well came home last night to another 90 degree day, but decided that I was going to get in to Gilbert again; albeit without my chocolate friend; who is still nursing her sore paw. She isn't limping on it anymore but figured with the heat and all it would be best to leave her home. I have been fairly tired lately but went out anyway. Went out on a new route this time, and figured I would take the Acorn trail out and then head down the Megley and back up my favorite path. Now let me just preface this by saying that the Acorn is a real bitch of a trail and if you can run it without stopping you are a better "man" than I. As I had said I have been fairly tired lately (not from too much training thats for damn sure) but about halfway through fighting the Acorn, it actually seemed like my legs were responding and I felt pretty damn good the rest of the run. Definately not reading too much into it, but I am going to take it as a positive sign and leave it at that.

Not sure that the weekend will bring with hurricane Earl heading up the coast but I am planning on hitting Gilbert regardless. That trail I like is actually really cool in the rain. Lots of run-offs and water running over large rock faces; a very fun run no matter how long it takes.
Take care all,
Be well ~ Sank

Well the thought was there....

2010-08-27T13:30:00.000-04:00

So I decide that last night I was going to hit the Gilbert State Forest with Belle for a 3 or 4 mile trail run. Were doing ok, ran into a few other dog owners walking.
Oh yeah check this out: So Belle and I are running, and this lady comes from the other way (neither dog was leashed). I stop to put the lead on Belle and she sits down right next to me and the other dog (who was a bit bigger than Belle at 70 lbs.) comes running up to Belle. I put the lead on, Belle puts her head down and starts to go around the dog owner and the other dog; and the lady says "what's wrong with your dog, is she shy or scared or something" all condescending like. Felt like saying, “no like her owner she just wants to run and be left alone, however like your dog's owner, he can’t seem to mind their own business”. But I digress.

So Belle and I are about 2 1/2 miles in (guessing based on history in the forest as I forgot my Garmin) and I look down and she's limping. I check her out, she isn't whimpering or anything, so we take a side trail to cut it short and start to walk back. About 50 yards in and I look down and she's going the one front legged hop. Knowing we have about a mile left to go, I bend down put her across my shoulders with the back of my neck to her stomach, and we head back. This morning thankfully she seemed none the worse for wear, but looks like I will keep her home for a few weeks so she can heal up. Not quite the same on the trails without her.

Be well - Sank

One on One off...

2010-08-26T10:38:00.000-04:00

Hey if may be the shortest of my run courses, but I have now made it 2 out of the last 3 days on it.
The tendon along my hamstring / running down the back to just behind my right knee is still sore (not sure if it is from being hit by the softball or from pulling the hamstring - same night), but I will continue to stretch it and put on the compression wrap for now. The good part is that I am out there, and not sitting home.
Be well all - Sank

Rogue Valley Beer Mile--2010

2010-08-25T16:36:00.001-04:00

Just how awesome is this. Stolen from Reinventing the Run blog
How do I get this going in good old Mansfield, MA ? Stay thirsty my friends...

Congrats and inspiration

2010-08-23T20:29:00.001-04:00

Congrats Congrats Congrats to my wife Nancy for finishing the Timberman Triathlon in New Hampshire. It has been on her bucket list since we met to do a tri and I am so happy to see her finish it. It was the first and only time that I actually went to a triathlon that I wasn't participating in and it was very humbling and inspirational to see the 1300+ athletes go for it. I am so proud of her!
It has also given me the kick in the butt to get out there. The right hamstring is still bugging me a little from a few weeks ago when I felt it go playing softball, followed by getting hit there while standing on 3rd, but no pain go gain. Actually got out today and just ran cautiously but the key part being that I RAN.
Well enough for now, I will definately be posting more now, and the runningahead page will be updating my activity. The rain, fouled up the Garmin so I had to do a manual entry, but whatever.....
Happy 17th Birthday to my son Kevin
Be well - Sank

Enough already....

2010-08-13T13:42:00.001-04:00

Been an extremely interesting year so far. Injuries, surgery, refereeing, work shit, RL stuff, what have you. But the one thing that you dont see is running; be it road or trail. And I am sorely missing that this year. Some of it post surgery, some due to a consistently tweaked hamstring, some in trying to juggle the refereeing schedule; but it simply just hasn't happened.
And I can feel it's absense in my body and more importantly in my mind. And to get myself back on track I need to start there. I can ice and wrap and ointment (yeah I know ointment "aint no" verb but dont stop me I'm on a roll) my hamstrings, but I have to lace up the running shoes again.
Not having done much I have lost the few readers I had and I dont blame them. Hopefully they come back soon. I wish you safe and long trails.
Be well - Sank

Durango Herald News, Finkel: Like a rock

2010-07-12T13:38:00.001-04:00

Durango Herald News, Finkel: Like a rock
Great video of this race on this link. Enjoy, grats on an excellent run by all

One more time.....

2010-06-30T16:14:00.000-04:00

You would think by the picture that I am talking about running in my back yard avoiding the dog poop (having 2 big chocolate labs will do that to you), but I couldn't find another picture so I went with this one.
Well I am FINALLY going to try one more time to get back on track. The neck has actually felt pretty damn good recently; even with starting to ref again. But on my first day back I had tweaked the left hammy again ARGHHHHHHH, but I found some nice stretchs to do; coupled with my compression strap and I am ready to give her another go.
I am going to start playing a little softball for the hotel's management company's team tomorrow night so after I hit the batting cages I am going to try to go 2 or 3 miles on the roads to see how I feel.
Wish me luck, be well - Sank

Hey, it's a start and things are getting better!

2010-06-09T12:43:00.002-04:00

18.35

2010-06-04T14:29:00.001-04:00

Well when I wrote on Wednesday that I had hoped to break 18.50 (albeit for just 2 miles) by this weekend, I would have never guessed that not only did I drop 10 seconds off my post-surgery best, but 25 seconds. Yup 18.35, with the first mile out at 9.03. Tried not to have to walk at all, but was able to finish with two quick breaks, I was able to do the last mile in 9.32 even with the 2 "walks". Very happy and encouraged.
Will take tonight off and hit Gilbert State Forest on Saturday.
Be well ~ Sank

Local New England Brewery revives under new ownership

2010-06-04T09:18:00.002-04:00

Narragansett revives under new ownership - The Boston Globe
When I was a kid my father used to sneak me sips of Narragansett. Nice to see an old New England standard still battling against the big boys and the micros.

16 days and 7 runs

2010-06-02T19:55:00.001-04:00

I know it's not much to brag about but for the most part I have been trying to get out every other day. Actually hit the trails on Monday. Was pretty fun, except the part of falling twice, but none the worse for wear. Tuesday I was supposed to go back to work, but the old ticker and the A-Fib were hinting of a return but doubling up on the pills took care of it. Which is a good thing, figuring I have no desire to get cardioverted again; 40+ times is more than enough, so thankfully the pills worked.
Well that wasn't the goal of this post, just to keep myself on the goal which is getting back to running. My goal by the end of the week is to break 18:50 on the roads. Shouldn't be a big deal if I can get rid of those 3 quick little walks. Just gotta do it!
Be well - Sank

7 days so far

2010-05-24T18:33:00.000-04:00

Well it's been a week and really no worse for wear. Trying to be smart and I am just running one of my regular loop courses but only running 2 miles. Sunday the shins were a bit tight so came home and googled stretches for it. Today while at PT, I mentioned it to Dan and Ian, who actually taped my shins. Tonight although having to work myself back in shape the shins were fine. Not that I am going to tape them all the time, but will have to look for some arch supports or maybe look into some orthotics.
But the neck feels good, really haven't noticed it at all after runs, more than the post-surgery soreness, but even that is going way down.
Well that's it for now. Planning on taking Tuesday off and heading back out on Wednesday.
Be Well - Sank

FINALLY!

2010-05-18T16:43:00.003-04:00

Well after weeks on the shelf, and 45 days since my last posting (didn't really want to bore those of you that actually read this with nothing but the same old day to day stuff) at 10:45 this morning I got the all clear sign.
I have to admit that part of me wants to run right out and do 5 miles, but my head tells me to go off slowly. I am SOOOO out of shape, but excited about hitting the roads again.
My Physical therapist says to start on the roads as the trails, being uneven surfaces, may be easier to start off on. Either way I am going to lace them up tonight. No Garmin (dont want to get to depressed right off the bat) and just take it as it goes.
As always, Be well - Sank

WELL I DID IT - 2 MILES ! :) AND I DID USE THE GARMIN ! IT WAS AWESOME
~ Sank

Very Cool (stolen from Derrick Stafford's blog)

2010-05-18T16:40:00.003-04:00

Good News and Bad News

2010-04-03T11:56:00.002-04:00

First the Bad News - I was originally hoping that I would be able to run starting May 1st, but the doctor told me yesterday that date has been pushed back to May 14th.
Now the Good News - the Collar came OFF yesterday! And although my running date was pushed back, I can get in the pool.
All and all I have to say that I am really happy with the progress and that I decided to have the surgery. I haven't had a headache now in 3 weeks, the pain in my elbow and upper arm is greatly reduced, and it seems like I have almost all of the feeling back in my ring and pinky finger in my left hand.
Dr. Weller said that there was narrowing of the nerve-ways and that there was substantial bone spurs, but that what he wasn't able to take care of in the surgery (bone spurs), should continue to get better over the next few months.
Here are the X-rays (or pictures I took of them from my cellphone) of the surgery. Simply amazes me that just 3 weeks ago, I had the surgery; where I am now, and my new "bionic" neck.

Be well, run an extra mile for me - Sank

16 days later

2010-03-28T11:49:00.000-04:00

Well it's been 16 days since the surgery and figured I would check in to anyone that actually wanted to kill some time and read.
After 6 days of absolute torture with muscle spasms, I think I am headed in the right direction. At some point right under my left shoulder a muscle spasm developed that would actually bring me to tears. Nancy at one point, and this particular spasm was a beauty, asked me if I was laughing or crying and I couldn't tell her which it was. Well the doc gave me a perscription for muscle relaxers, coupledwith the Percocet, and the great massages from Nancy and here I am today actually optimistic about my future neck (and running again) health.

Went to work on Friday for a few hours, mostly to connect back with my Midtown Family and get some of the papers off of my desk. Will be doing half days this week, as I see Dr. Weller on Friday. Hopefully I will get off this baby. Which I have become quite friendly with since I have to wear it 24/7 (yup even in the shower).

If I can do it I am going to try to get a copy of the X-rays with the plate and will post.

But enough for now. Be well - Sank

7 days down...

2010-03-18T21:48:00.001-04:00

At this time last week I was crawling into bed for the night getting ready for the surgery first thing Friday 7:30am. Now a week later, I'm still fairly sore but besides being a horrible patient (including having a very short fuse and incredibly moody) I feel like I am getting better.
The left arm is still a bothering me a bit, but Dr. Weller says that "should" go away in a few months. But only time will tell but keeping my fingers crossed. I slept funny the other night so the back of my neck have been tender but if I lay back down or prop up my neck while on the couch I seem to be ok.
Big Big Big thing - - - stay on track with the pain meds. Having a kick at the end of the race is one thing, but chasing down pain to go down SUCKS. So staying on my 4 hours and adjusting the amount of pills, but not the clock.
Oh well, thanks for reading and checking in.
Be well - Sank

Done !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-03-13T15:32:00.000-05:00

Well the surgery is over and the next day I am at home.
Nancy was kind enough LOL to take this picture last night just as I was wheeled into the hospital room.

Sure looked like crap, but better today. Thanks to the benefits of modern medicine.
April 1st when I can lace up the Nikes is getting closer everyday.
Be well - Sank

Countdown

2010-03-09T16:55:00.000-05:00

Well tick tick tick....

Obviously not that I have anything to do except lie there and not die, the thought of this Friday’s surgery is REALLY starting to stick in my head.

I am off the Advil (or whatever painkillers I can find) along with the aspirin since last Thursday, based on Doctor's orders. Aspirin I take after all of my heart stuff in 2006, but need to be off of both because of the blood thinning qualities. I also take Lisnopril, which I have to take to keep my heart strength up (again from bad things that happened in 2006), mostly because between the Lisnopril and my other meds and athlete (well not much since November/December); I have to go off of it starting tomorrow as the combination lowers my blood pressure and the anesthesiologist wants to keep that higher. My blood pressure normally runs around 90 over 60, which is borderline low I guess. They tell me they want the first number over 100. So no meds and I have to drink lots of water - yuck!!

I went to my pre-Op last Friday and realized VERY QUICKLY that there is a lot of info out there that I really don’t need to know all of the details about. I mean did you know that when you were under, that some of the stuff the anesthesiologist gives you is actually a paralytic. That when given actually stops you from breathing and hence the breathing tube so you…well don’t die. I never did and I have had my fair share of that crap over my 47 years. Ignorance is bliss, or it was anyway.

So it's now Tuesday afternoon; work tomorrow and Thursday. Then Nancy and I are going to stay here in Boston at the Doubletree Hotel on Washington Street across from Tufts New England Medical Center. And yes I am the General Manager of the Midtown Hotel in downtown Boston and could stay here; but the GM, Stephen Pole, over at the Doubletree was able to give me a great rate so we went for it. THANK YOU BIG TIME STEPHEN, a huge help during a stressful time. Mostly doing it so that after I go in at 6am on Friday, Nancy can just go back to the hotel and relax for the 2 1/2 ~ 3 hours while they are doing the surgery. And then can come over afterwards and not have to worry about driving, parking, etc...

Once the surgery is over and I leave the holding room (or whatever they call the room you come out of "sleepy land") then; up to a room for the night. They tell me that I will be going home the next day, and I hope they are right. 3 weeks in a hard collar, and no driving. I am going to take 2 weeks off of work and go back half days on the 25th and 26th and take it as it goes.

Going back to my old running and triathlon days, I have a tendency to not wait till I am fully recovered. But I learned (or hopefully so) NOT to do that anymore since 2006, when I had all the complications from the heart procedures. Tough to teach an old dog new tricks, but I'll just have to be smarter than when I was younger and "bullet-proof".

They say 6 weeks until resuming normal activities, so that will keep me on a May 1st deadline. Not sure if that will give me enough time to do the Timberman with Nancy, but I will at least be able to train with her and cheer her on in August.

I will be posting, probably more to relieve the boredom of sitting at home and for the therapeutic benefits a lot of the next few days going into and weeks as I sit at home. So if you’re bored, feel free to come along for the ride. Although I am very nervous I am very hopeful that it will be a huge success.

Be well - Sank

Time to mark the calendar

2010-02-25T14:17:00.001-05:00

Well the surgery has been set; and it looks like I will be on the operating table on Friday March 12th.

I have to arrive at 6am and will be operated on at 7:30. One night in the hospital followed by 2 weeks out of work and 3 weeks without driving. Still hoping for 6 weeks (May 1st) until I hit the roads/trails again.

And on a side note: I got a hit from ALASKA to the blog. Only 14 states to go!

Resolution?

2010-02-23T12:28:00.003-05:00

No not a New Year's Resolution, cause God knows that by February 23rd that would have been long broken for most of us. But hopefully a resolution about my neck.

Went to the NeuroSurgeon today (Dr Simcha Weller) and it looks like we (we - yeah like someone else is going with me) under the knife in a few weeks. Woke up early this morning to get into Boston for a 7:30am MRI at New England Medical Center. Then across the street to Dr Weller's office for him to look at it and to discuss the options. It's been well over 8 years of the varying levels of discomfort and 4 years of seeing Dr. Weller.

Today's MRI showed the same two disc issues (C5-C6 & C6-C7) coupled with bone spurs around them.

~ Option 1 - eat Ibuporfin like Skittles (click for one of my favorite commercial's EVER)!

~ Option 2 - the fusion surgery.(not posting the surgery link again)

Now I am in no way excited about going under the knife for any reason, but I can't deal with this crap anymore. The migraines, the vertigo, the numbness in the left arm, left ring and pinky fingers, the lack of movement in my neck and shoulder..... should I continue?

I am supposed to hear from the doctor's office anytime between now and Thursday with some dates, but it is looking like 2 or 3 weeks out. He then said post-surgery that I can resume "normal" activities in 6 or 7 weeks. That means I could potentially be on the trails sometime around May 10th. That would be sweet!

As usual: Be Well - and please DONT take things for granted.

Sank

Pain in the neck....literally

2010-02-04T11:08:00.000-05:00

Well not a lot has happened on the roads or trails lately that's for sure. Yeah the weather has hindered it a bit, daylight savings, blah blah blah, excuse, excuse, excuse. But the one thing that isn't going away is the pain and hinderance being caused by my neck. The two herniations (C5-C6 and C6-C7) are really hindering most things. The arms go numb or tingle or fall asleep, the migraines, the lack of movement, the pain sitting, the pain in driving, etc... I have been dealing with this for about 7 years or so. And for the most part it comes and goes in severity but never completely.
I was living with it for the most part, but I fell (click for blog entry) back on December 7th, and it has been killing me ever since.
Tried a bunch of stuff and just last week, Dr Higgins threw me on my second steriod treatment (I guess I wont be going into the Baseball Hall of Fame along with Mark McGuire anytime soon). But with the exception of a slight amount of extended movement for a day or so, they really dont do anything.
So back to the NeuroSurgeon I go on February 23rd to discuss the fusion surgury.
I watched a video, an actual video of the surgery, on YouTube. Now with all the stuff I have had done, including the 3 heart procedures and having to give myself blood thinner shots in my stomach, I just cant watch medical stuff. God bless Nancy, who works in the dental field, she tries to tell me what she does some days and I am such a wimp and cant deal with it. Anyway, I tried to watch this surgery video - not the best idea. Click here if YOU want to watch it cause I aint :) LOL
But I have to do something.
Be well - dont take what you have for granted.
Sank

Beating myself up.

2010-01-20T13:08:00.001-05:00

You know sometimes you just have to sit back and realize when you are, for lack of a different term, being lazy. Now I'm not saying that I have done nothing and just propped up in front of the TV; but I have NOT been out on the roads, except for once this year.

Now I have been refereeing a ton for the past several months, including 9 games this weekend. That coupled with Hannie's basketball team in full swing, at least I have been somewhat mobile. But the cold, snow, rain, tough trail conditions, daylight savings, early nights; have made it just to easy to jump in front of the computer and goof around on either Facebook or Warcraft. Yeah I'm a gamer, though after my 8 month hiatis I am not spending near the time I did before.

But that all has to change. I felt so much better getting out there and running. The legs and knee are feeling pretty damn good after refereeing and refereeing usually brings out the worst in the them. Nancy has asked me to do the Timberman Triathlon with her in the summer, and I have to start hitting the pool and roads to get my endurance up. I did my last one 10 ('gulp' is it really ten) years ago, and although I did it ok for the limited training, I swore to myself that I would never do another one without an adequate base.

Hopefully posting this (and staying with posting) will keep me on track. Feel free to send me grief or support or congratulations or whatever you think is appropriate at the time.

Be well - Sank

3 days and counting....

2010-01-04T14:31:00.002-05:00

Well after hitting the roads on the 1st, this weekend found me hammering out my miles refereeing, doing a total of 6 games over the 2nd and 3rd. Have to admit that I am a bit sore after taking 30 days off from running, with the exception of a few games refereeing, but nothing of any note.

The snow finally stopped so that's a good thing after seeing the white stuff off and on for 3 days, but I am going to try to get out to do 3 tonight when I get home. Slow but steady is my mantra for January.

Be well - Sank

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T13:54:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year all. Well it has been a month since I had my last official run. Been a crazy month, with the holidays, putting our St. Bernard down last week and on the exercise front; I have done all I can to put the hamstring back in order, and the IT hasn't bothered me in a while.

I hit the roads this morning, and besides an occassional reminder of the hamstring and to back off, I felt pretty good. I am going to try to stay with the shorter strides and hopefully (weather permitting) hit the trails when I can.

My wife has started a blog (click here) as she has been wanting to do a triathlon so check it out to see her progress. We are debating on if I should do it with her, but not sure with wave starts how we could pull that off and actually be side by side with her (after the swim portion).

Wishing you the best of New Year's, Peace and Love to all, Be Well - Sank

Rest in Peace my beautiful friend

2009-12-22T20:27:00.000-05:00

For those of you that have read my blog before you know my fondness and love of my dogs. It is with a VERY heavy heart that I type that we had to put our beautiful Callie (our St Bernard) down tonight.

It was the right thing to do for our gentle sweet giant, although it most certainly isn't making it seem like it this evening.

My thoughts go out to Callie tonight and my prayers to God to keep an eye out for my special four legged friend. You will always be in my heart.

Time to try again

2009-12-17T13:08:00.008-05:00

Well the neck is barely better, but I honestly (without surgery) do not think that is going to get any better or worse, so I think it is time to try hitting the trails/roads again and see how it plays out.
Been refereeing enough so leg-wise I still feel pretty good. I actually forgot to wear the hamstring wrap on Sunday, and although the body reminded me that it was still tender afterwards, no problems.
My plan is to get out there on Saturday.

Today is 12 degrees and windy making the windchill 4 degrees, so for some odd reason it just didn't feel right today to start. And no, although gray haired, that is not me to the left.
The rest of the week is simply out straight so I am looking forward to hitting Gilbert Forest on Saturday. Who knows maybe the YakTrak that I won (YakTrak Contest with IRunFar) will arrive by Friday and I can give them a go.
Luckily I have been keeping the weight off (actually believe it or not but got on the scale Monday to find I had lost 5 pounds).
Oh well, I'll let you all go. Have a great day.
Be well - Sank

Childish yes, but....Merry Christmas

2009-12-11T10:31:00.000-05:00

YakTrax Pro Giveway Winners!

2009-12-10T09:48:00.001-05:00

YakTrax Pro Giveway Winners!
Sweet! I found out today that I actually won this from the IRunFar blogsite.
A big thanks to Bryon for doing this and congrats to the other 4 winners!
If you haven't gone there you should really check it out. Bryon as well as alot of great other blog links are listed on the left hand column.

On a injury note, the Dr confirmed my fears in that I reinjured my neck. On a steriod pack treatment for 6 days (seems to have helped the inflammation but still sore). Going to play this out and see what happens by this time next week.

You dont have to be a total klutz to be me, but it sure as hell helps.

2009-12-07T11:59:00.002-05:00

Well as you can probably tell from the pic, I fell. Now normally I would chalk it up to my general overall coordination and go from there. But of course, with me and my luck, I am running up the first of a 5 step flight of stairs coming to a landing onto a second one. Take note of this here kids - DONT RUN UPSTAIRS, especially with dress shoes.

So making a short story long (A Sank regular occurance) I catch my foot on the first set of stairs, and there would be no catching myself on Friday. I get one foot on the landing and go right down driving my hand and head in the second set of stairs. Yup only yours truly can fall going UP a flight of stairs. So for the last 72 hours or so, the 2 herniated discs in my neck have been absolutely burning with tingling and pain starting in my left shoulder running down my arm ending in my ring and pinky fingers. Oh yeah did I mention that I think I broke my top knuckle on my right index finger.

I promised Nancy I wouldn't run and am heading off to the Dr's this afternoon. Will have to keep an eye on the calories, listen to what he says and wish for the best. This one really bums me out as I always loved to run in that first dry crisp snow of the year and couldn't this Sunday. But things could always be worse.

Be well - Sank

States to go....

2009-12-03T13:32:00.012-05:00

Well as a continuation of my prior post 28 down 22 to go , I was lucky enough to get a couple more this week. Not to mention a few countries. Anyway here's my list of states that I have left to go to get all 50 to hit my blog.
Alaska - Arkansas - Delaware - Idaho - Illinois - Indiana - Iowa - Louisiana - Maryland - Nebraska - New Mexico - North Dakota - Ohio - Oklahoma - Oregon - Rhode Island - South Carolina - South Dakota - Tennesee and last but not least - West Virginia
If anyone knows anyone in these states have log on. Would love to get all 50.

On a side note, I actually did hit the roads last night. Only 2.2 but the hamstring held up and it feels pretty good today. Will give it today off and then get back on Friday.

Be well - Sank

Update June 2010 - 39 down 11 to go - Now down to Arkansas, Delaware, Idaho, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, and still last but not least West Virginia.

Today is the day....

2009-12-02T14:30:00.002-05:00

Although the hamstring is still a bit tender, I am so going for a run today.
Granted it may only be the 2.7 mile course, I am wrapping up the hamstring, and the IT band and I am hitting to the roads baby.

Giving it a go

2009-11-30T09:51:00.000-05:00

So far, so good. Well since last week's tweaking of the hamstring I decided to give it a rest. Well that was before the refereeing schedule came out. 8 games over the weekend, along with heading out with Nancy's crew Saturday night and Hannie's team involved in the same tournament with 3 games.
So Wednesday night I head out to Sports Authority and pickup a thigh compression wrap and see how I make out running up and down the court. And I have to admit that I was more than pleasantly surprised and extremely optimistic. I was starting to get (for lack of a better word) depressed about the running over the past few weeks; no energy, stagnent splits, and the constant pains but this may just be what I needed. Going to wrap her up and give her a go tonight. Keep you fingers crossed for me.
On a side note, very happy to report that after starting 0-5, Hannie's team went 2-1 this weekend, including a 9 point loss to a A team in the final game. The girls are working hard to pick up a new offense that we just put in but is showing some real promise.
Be well - Sank

Well it's gone....

2009-11-25T12:21:00.001-05:00

So I finally get out last night to try to get some running in. I had missed a few days between being busy, dealing with migraines coming out of those damn herniated discs in my neck, and trying to rest the legs. So I throw on the PT band, the rain coat, and the Garmin and out I go.

Now the pace wasn't too great, but I didn't feel too bad. Was trying to concentrate on my form, lifting my knees on each step and not overstriding. 2 miles in and still feeling pretty good. As I am coming over the Williams Street bridge the back of my right leg, starts to act up a bit. So I shorten up my stride and pace and continue on down to the West Street intersection. And then just shy of 3 miles in, my right hamstring finally went on me. I stopped there and then, trying not to aggravate it anymore, and walked to the house.

A bit sore today, I am going to get a compression wrap for it (as I have 8 games this weekend to ref) but regardless I am NOT going to let this make me stop. Oh well, tomorrow is Thanksgiving and in the big picture I have a LOT to be thankful for.

Be well and Happy Thanksgiving all - Sank

Vibram Giveaway Sweepstakes - Win a Jackson Hole Vacation

2009-11-24T21:54:00.002-05:00

click here for link to site

Posted using ShareThis

Happy Pre-Thanksgiving !!

2009-11-20T19:23:00.000-05:00

After 3 days off, I keep repeating this mantra.....

2009-11-19T14:37:00.003-05:00

Way too much fun for a human (and a dog) to have!

2009-11-16T17:19:00.004-05:00

Sunday after coaching two basketball games with Hannie's team (we lost both but I digress), I decided to take Belle and hit Gilbert State Forest. It had rained like hell Friday night and all day Saturday, but it was sunny and breezy on Sunday so I figured I was going to run into some decent mud patches, but boy was I wrong.

RUNNING is just not supposed to be this much fun.

We start off running up the Heart Healthy Trail, which is fairly hilly and rocky, and came across some small mud patches. So far - right to plan. Come down the hill, take the right, come across some really good mud patches, even better. Cross the Mill St corner, go straight ahead, merge back into the forest; again some small mud but nothing too big. So now I am thinking this is cool, a few small mud patches, one or two mucky wet patches; no biggie.
WRONG! I now head off to my favorite trail and quickly found out why the majority of the trail is "softball-sized" rocks embedded in mud. I guess during an substantial rain, this trail turns into a small river. How Freakin' cool is this?!?! We go down this for awhile take the left at the split, so we can stay in the forest, the river ends but the mud sure doesn't. The reason I love this trail is in the late summer and early fall, it feels like you are running the Pacific Northwest. It's semi-dark, very plush vegitation with rocks, moss and water here and there. But after a rain, it ROCKS! Seems like everytime you turn a corner you run into a nice mud/water bath, a river or a place to just get nice and dirty.
Can't remember the last time I had so much fun running. The pace wasn't great, but who the hell cares; neither Belle nor I did.
Now if I just hit the lottery and didn't have to work I could run it everyday. But until then, roads during the week and the trails on the weekends.
Be well - Sank

Change of plans

2009-11-14T18:45:00.000-05:00

Maybe this heading should be getting a plan. After taking 3 days off, and as I was heading out Friday I decided that I was going to just go back to building up my base, not worrying about the pace (left the Garmin home) and just enjoy the run.
And you know it actually seemed to work. So I just went out, tried to concentrate on keeping my stride short, did a little bit of fartleks on some telephone poles, and came home to take a quick shower and take Hannie off to her first basketball game.
Today woke up to some really heavy rains, but in keeping with my enjoying the run, threw on my old shoes, a rain jacket and took off. Not the best of time by any stretch but you know it was one of the more enjoyable runs I have had in a long time.

Be well all - Sank

Barefoot Article from Boston Globe

2009-11-12T19:49:00.000-05:00

Click for Globe Article

28 down 22 to go

2009-11-12T11:28:00.001-05:00

I was looking at my blog hit map today and realized that I have been hit by 28 of the 50 US states. Not to mention my faithful readers from the north (URG, EJ, Derrick, etc) and some other random hits from around the globe.

Not that it is a real huge deal in the big scheme of things, but it is pretty cool to think that many people have taken time out of their day to read my rants.

Nice Routine

2009-11-11T14:35:00.001-05:00

Well it seems like I am starting to get into a nice little routine. Getting out to run on Saturdays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. The legs and back have been a little tight on Mondays and I am starting to think it is from the refereeing for anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. I am taking this week off, not like it is a big problem on my end as there were no tournaments anyway, but I am interested to see how I will feel on Monday with only road and trails this weekend and no ref'ing.
This weekend also is the unofficial start of my daughter Hannah's basketball. We are in a tournament in Bellingham, MA, and will be playing one game on Friday and two on Sunday. My son, Kevin, is swimming in a meet on Saturday (second week in a row), so it will be a fairly busy one.
Off for now, going to try to get a Wednesday run in if I can tonite, but we'll see how the rest of the day goes in the office.
Be well - Sank

Happy 13th Hannie !

2009-11-09T09:13:00.000-05:00

My youngest turns 13 today!
Happy Birthday Hannie,
I hope you have a great day,
Love you,
Daddy and Nana

She is so going to kill me for posting this pic, but that's what Dad's are supposed to do, right?

Indian Summer Run

2009-11-09T08:50:00.001-05:00

Hit Gilbert State Forest yesterday. It was a beautiful morning, and when I arrived at the Park the parking lot was loaded and there were two trucks coming down the path. I have never seen vehicles on the path before and shortly following the trucks were a Boy Scout troop that were coming out from their annual camp out. They most certainly had a beautiful night and morning for it.
Belle and I hit the heart trail and then over to this trail along the back side that she and I had found last time we were out there. Nice to have the Garmin as I had always just estimated my mileage and splits before. Nancy was having a family breakfast so I cut my run short at 3.5 miles, but it was nice to get back on the trails. And with no hunting allowed in Massachusetts on Sundays, I didn't have to worry about that.
Be well all - Sank

Trails....not with Elmer out there

2009-11-07T10:53:00.000-05:00

Well I woke up this morning debating on running this 4 mile trail race up in Haverhill, MA or taking Belle out to the state forest for a morning of running, all psyched up for FINALLY hitting the trails again. Kevin has a swim meet up north which made the race perfect, except that he would have to get up really early but he said he didn't mind. Then they moved the time that he had to be there back so the timing just didn't make since so Belle won, off to the Gilbert State Forest in Foxboro. And then I remembered it is hunting season.

So I try to get ahold of Petco, or Benny's, or Bass Pro Shop to get a orange vest for Belle but no luck. I found an old Boston Marathon jacket (circa 1999) which was bright orange for me, but nothing for her. So I hit the roads instead.

If anyone has any hunting season safety tips - PLEASE post them in the comment section!

Still trying to get my legs straightened out, that along with figuring out which is the correct mileage, the Garmin or Runningahead.com - but I was out there anyway on a very cold OCTOBER morning (23 degrees F).

But the sun was out and it really turned out to be a beautiful morning. Well no hunting on Sundays, so I guess I will try again.

Have a great day all. Be well - Sank

Congratulations Kevin!

2009-11-05T11:19:00.003-05:00

Last night my son Kevin was inducted into the French National Honor Society at his High School. He was inducted along with 12 other French inductees, and 46 Spanish inductees into their respective NHS.
I tried to take some pictures in the auditorium but they were very grainy and after taking 4 pictures, I received the message "memory card full" on the screen. Oh well that was definately not going to ruin our night.

So instead here is one of the 3 kids (Hannie, Cate and Kevin) at dinner afterwards.
Congrats Kev, Nana and I are very proud of you,

Love ya big man,

Dad (Sank)

Is it time?

2009-11-04T11:26:00.004-05:00

Woke up this morning to the right hamstring not happy (see notes from yesterday's post). I have to say that I am extremely discouraged at the continual new aches and pains that I have been experiencing this time around. I mean come on, I know I am not getting any younger but the aches are constant, seem to move around from issue to issue, and I am starting to think that they are affecting my gait which is causing new ones. Is it time to quit?
I am going to go to Marathon Sports in Boston on Friday and have them do a Fit Right test on me. They have you run on a treadmill and look at your how you run, if you pronate or not, your arches, etc... and then suggest the proper shoe for you. After that I will give it a few weeks with the new shoes and see what happens from there.
Perhaps massage or yoga or something else. Anyone have any suggestions?
It's just really getting frustrating at this point. I know, I know; it could always be worse, but enough is enough already.
Funny how this damn sport can take you from the high of reaching your goal (100 mile month goal for October), to the lows of 4 days later, ready to throw in the towel.
Well thanks for listening to me whine, Be well - Sank

Who to believe?

2009-11-03T17:15:00.000-05:00

Garmin vs. Runningahead ???
So I have a Dr's appointment today and it run's a little late. So instead of trying to get back to work, just to have to almost turn right around to make it for a 6:30 meeting tonight, I decide to head home and try to get a run in before Daylight Savings Time kills the afternoon sun and I have to run covered in reflective tape.
But to get to the point, I strap on the Garmin - still trying to figure out all the features, and off I go. I tried to go out fairly quick, and went out without any stretching or warmup, so "tad-daaa" the back of my right leg starts to bug me so I decide to go my short loop course.
I finish up a course that I have run a fair amount of times and when I download the Garmin, I am missing .12 miles from what the map says when I entered it in Runningahead. But who's right?
Anyone else have this problem come up and who/what do you believe to be right?
Until tomorrow - Be Well - Sank

DID IT!!!!

2009-10-31T09:54:00.001-04:00

87.6 and counting

2009-10-30T12:38:00.004-04:00

Well today is October 30th leaving me just over 35 & 1/2 hours to get in 12.4 miles. Now before all of you Ultra-heads starting rolling your eyes, I need to try to figure out if I can pull this off and not have it knock me back in November. My longest run this year has been (one sec - have to go to runningahead.com to check - be right back.......) just under 4.3 miles. I have to referee 3 games on Saturday, which at calculating 2 miles per game (although on line they say it is between 3.5 and 5 miles per game - I just dont see that so I go with 2 miles per game), but I digress. I have been fighting the hamstring tweak, my IT band (which is about 95% healed), and a crazy like/work schedule. But excuses are easy to find..........

ANYWAY---- Ref'ing will give me 6 making the total 6.4, you know I actually think I can pull this off. If I run my King Arthur/Nelson loop that will give me 3.1 miles for tonite (when I get home) that will leave me 3.3 miles to do early Saturday morning.

Well wish me luck, though all I really need is to stop making it a big deal in my head and JUST DO IT.

I know this pic is a tad crude, but when I was googling JUST DO IT images, this one was screaming to me to use it. And sometimes you just have to listen to those little voices in your head :)

3 games on Sunday and I will have a nice start to November.
Not to mention that I am breaking in the new Garmin tonite - SWEET!
Happy Friday all - be well - Sank

UPDATE: THE GARMIN 405 ROCKS!! I love it

View from outside my office - no cubicle for this kid

2009-10-29T13:56:00.003-04:00

It is a beautiful day here in Sunny Boston today. This is the great view of the Christian Science Church Plaza headquarters that I get from my office window EVERYDAY.

If you have never had the chance to walk the plaza it is breathtaking. For all of you that are running Boston, you really should make a point to do it while you are here. It is just a couple blocks from the finish line.

I am very lucky in that the hotel that I manage is a VERY short walk to the finish line. I usually try to get over to see some of it every year.

Message me if you are planning on running it and need a room and I will try to get you a good rate.

Take care all, Be Well - Sank

Back

2009-10-27T10:10:00.000-04:00

Seems like forever (well actually just a week) since I posted. Tons of refereeing this weekend and the herniated discs sparked back up the migraines. That coupled with the fact that eating whatever and as much as I felt like and a way to many beers, so kind of a lost couple of days and feeling pretty crappy.
Oh well poor me - I really need to get going on the roads. I still have an outside shot at hitting my first 100 mile month (in about 15 years), which I am really going to try to do, but I just wish I could get out there consistently and feel good. Not just mentally but a good stride, pace, breathing; without having to think about what I am doing.
My goal a little while ago was to:
1. get the little nagging legs issues under control (which thankfully I seem to have), and
2. stay on the roads only to try to get some consistency
But I just cant seem to get that flow going while running. Oh well, just need to keep sticking to it, and stop whining about it I guess.
My replacement Garmin 405 shows up today, so at least I will have a new toy to go out with me while I figure it out. :)

Thanks all - if any New Englanders are out there that know of any good running clubs that do a fair amount of Trail Running - PLEASE comment me their information.

Take care, be well - Sank

Lost outside of the Woods

2009-10-20T14:06:00.002-04:00

Somehow I have lost myself outside of the woods. With the days getting shorter, the weather getting colder, the rush to get the outside jobs wrapped up, with the hotel business getting slower, the work day getting busier, kids back to school and head first into activities, and the basketball refereeing availability going from nothing to tons; I have not been able to get out on the trails in what seems like forever.
Perhaps in hind-sight it is helping me with my knee and hamstring, but I have to say that I, along with Belle, are missing it. I really am going to have to make the effort to either get up REAL early and get out there before work or cut back on the weekend refereeing and get at least one run there.
Funny, before August I had never done an trail run. Obviously I am not talking about my pre-high school days when running; and pre-mountain bikes when riding; was just what you did. FOR FUN! No Garmin, no tempo; just fun. Be nice to be able to go back to those times wouldn't it?

Happy Boss's Day

2009-10-16T14:37:00.001-04:00

Not to much to report. Been holding back on the running end as my left hamstring is still not very happy. I am refereeing again this weekend, 3 Friday, 2 Saturday and 2 on Sunday. Probably not the best running career move but I need the cash (like all of us dont).

Nancy and I are going to this bellydancing thing on Saturday night, with a girl Nancy works with and her husband. They went last year and said it was a blast.

Wish me luck with the refereeing. Once again looks like nagging little injuries will keep me from my 100 mile month. There's always next month.

Be well - Sank

To all you hockey fans out there....check out this kid.

2009-10-15T14:53:00.000-04:00

Bicep Femoris, 229 and Zero

2009-10-14T15:11:00.010-04:00

My left hamstring has been acting up the past several weeks, starting up after I had done a 7 basketball game refereeing weekend. I have tried stretching it out, don't really have any decent stretches just doing what seems to feel like it is stretching it out and going from there.

Looking at the diagram I reckon its my lower Bicep Femoris.

But it is really restricting me today, so if anyone has any suggestions, PLEASE send them on over.

I stole some of this post, expecially the jpeg from another blog site (Mark's Marathon) for the hamstring portion.

Now for the 229, I actually saw gas today for sale at $ 2.29 - not that it is that big a deal but what a very pleasant surprise. Note: I am not holding my breath thinking that I will see under $ 2.00 again in my lifetime.

And finally the 0 (Zero). Not that I am a celcius guy, living in Boston, Mass USA, but the Title sounded better than Bicep Femoris, 229 and 32. Anyway, went out to the car today and the temperature was 32 degrees F (or for my canadien readers 0 degrees C). There goes everyones Global Warming fears, Global Cooling everyone - go out now and get all the down and flannel you can.

and on another note - my Garmin 405 - arrived today! WOOT!!!!!!!!!!!

Be well - Sank

New England Craft Beers

2009-10-12T07:57:00.001-04:00

Link to a posting from the Boston Globe. 6 local New England craft beers; enjoy the read, enjoy the brews.

It is also makes for a good starting place to drown our sorrows after the Sox get swept and the Patriots offense goes silent in the second half vs. the Broncos. Life's to short to drink cheap beer!

Be well - Sank

Click here for Globe article

In the words of Homer Simpson - D'oh!

2009-10-09T14:35:00.001-04:00

Marge Simpson - Playmate ? Yes it is actually true.
This is just too funny.......

Refereeing and getting old!

2009-10-09T10:01:00.003-04:00

I'm told that New Hampshire and Vermont are peak this weekend but the leaves are really starting to turn here in good old Massachusetts. The pool this morning had a fairly decent layer so I guess the pool guys will be coming out soon to close her down. That truly is the benchmark for the end of summer. Oh well.

Fall also brings the start of the AAU and Rec League basketball which is good by me as it helps to put some $ in my pocket by refereeing. The only downsides, it really gets tough on the body trying to ref somewhere between 5 to 10 games over a weekend and get in a run (trail or road). But the money is good and I try to consider it like a sprint workout. Last weekend I reverted back to my old habits and didn't stretch AT ALL. Big mistake as I tweaked something in my lower back into my left hamstring. I did a couple runs this week and once I got out a bit it warmed up ok, but the mornings were tough getting up.

Well it sucks to get old, but what are you going to do, they haven't found a cure for that yet.

Took this picture yesterday as I was walking down Boylston Street - yup this is the "needs to be painted badly" finish line of the Boston Marathon. Right around the corner from the hotel I run. Hopefully I will be running over that in just less of 200 days.

Be well all - Sank

Another Reason I Love Dogs

2009-10-06T08:56:00.001-04:00

On the Road again and I added a Beer of the Week section

2009-10-05T21:15:00.003-04:00

Wow what an absolutely crazy 4 days. Friday involved picking the rosters for 4 youth basketball teams, one being my daughter Hannah's. Saturday and Sunday was refereeing and more refereeing. I looked on line to see what the average distance coverered when refereeing a high school game and it said between 3 and 5. Well I couldnt really see that so I put it in at 2 miles per game and 2.5 for this one beast of a game. I say beast only in that these were two of the best 17 year old teams in the New England and my partner and I ran our asses off. Fun game to do though, lots of action above the rim. Now generally before I started up running a month or so ago, the next day I would be doing my best Walter Brennan imitation limping around the house but I have to say that both Sunday and today I felt pretty damn good.
So tonite I get home a bit late and after doing all the games I decide that I will do a short 2.3 miles. I was little concerned as I had tightened up a bit as the day progressed sitting in the office chair for a large part of the day, coupled with almost a 90 minute extended ride home but I went out regardless. As I started the back of my legs were keeping me in check, but as I finished the later part come over a small hill I was pretty happy with my run. 8.25 pace and I thought after last week's run that it was going to be closer to 8. I guess I have to think that the 7.49 pace was an error somewhere either distance or the watch. Oh well it gives me something to shoot for, breaking 8 again.
Ok now to the libation part of the blog. I finally added a Beer of the Week section to the left, along with a past winners section. Just a place to show what I am drinking at the moment, a different beer related type of post or just a beer that I tried and liked enough to take the time to add it. If you have one that you particularly like, please send it on over and I will happily try it out.
Be well all - Sank

Watch issue or one hell of a good run?

2009-10-01T20:54:00.002-04:00

I get home tonite and decide that I have to start kicking up my base. Not to mention that I really want to break 100 miles this month (I know not a very worth goal, but we all have to start somewhere).

So I run some afterwork errands and rush into the house to get my stuff on and to do the Old School loop. It's a 4.17 mile run with a short loop at the end on a fairly busy street, which isnt the best when the sun's going down but I go off regardless. I stretch out the IT band (boy those exercises are starting to pay some dividends) and off I go.

Now when I started off I felt pretty good and went out kind of hard, but after 3/4's of a mile I settled in pretty well. Occassionally I would feel my quads tighten up a little so I would slow down my stride a bit, try to kick out my legs to stretch out a bit, and when they weren't bothering me I would just settle in. Almost 3/4's of the way done and I am coming down this slight decline and I really felt great. The stride was great, quick and my breathing was very smooth. Well to make a short story long, I shut off the watch as I hit the end of the driveway and into the house I go to enter it into my runningahead.com account. And as I am entering everything I look at my pace and I ran 7:49 miles. Are you shitting me? 7:49's!!!!!!!!!!!! I know I felt good and all but to take off that type of time, if and I repeat (in caps) IF that is true I am so psyched right now!

Well I'll take it, short run if any tomorrow. This weekend is going to be kind of crazy as I ref AAU basketball and I am committed to a bunch of games AND I want to get out on the roads and trails.

Well if you look in the sky and see a light coming out of the Massachusetts area of the US, it is me glowing from tonite's run. God I hope that watch was right :)

On a very minor "I am so bumming" note - I missed out on a sweet ebay bid on a Garmin 405cx. :(

Be well - Sank

It's Official .......

2009-10-01T06:46:00.000-04:00

200 Days 'til the 2010 Boston Marathon

Back to the roads

2009-09-30T14:43:00.000-04:00

When finally got myself back on the roads last night. After eating just about everything on the planet bad for you, getting in one run over 4 days on a very muddy trail, wasnt quite sure what to expect. The town I live in has made the financial decision to cut back on the street lights, so I try to be careful and by the time I got home, it was dark. But off I went running a variation of a few of my courses.
Actually all and all it went pretty well. Got just over 3.5 miles in just over 30 minutes. I am very happy with my average pace dropping recently. Have to mix in some distance runs on the road, with some Tempo runs.
Well that's it for today. Crazy night so I probably wont get on the streets tonite.
Be well all - Sank

If Lewis Black was the Surgeon General of the US - HE would get stuff done

2009-09-29T16:40:00.004-04:00

If a dog was your teacher.............

2009-09-29T12:34:00.001-04:00

IF DOGS WERE OUR TEACHERS, WE WOULD LEARN IMPORTANT STUFF LIKE:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them like they've been gone for a year.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride in the car.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
When it's in your best interest, practice obedience.
Let others know when they've invaded your territory.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wiggle your entire body.
No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout. Run right back and make friends.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.
Be loyal but never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

And finally, ---

Never trust anyone until you sniff their ass. (ok well maybe up until that last one)

Weekend Food Warriors

2009-09-29T11:05:00.003-04:00

What a great weekend! As blog'd before, Saturday was the Phanton Gourment Food Festival followed by great seats for the Boston Bruins. Sunday was a trail run with Belle and then just mostly hanging on a very rainy day. My own private 3 day weekend concluded with the Big E (http://www.thebige.com/) which is a HUGE state, well maybe more like New England, fair.

I could go on and on about the food and what we did, but I think I will just let the pictures do the talking. I can tell you one thing though, the body is definately NOT happy with the fine collection of junk food I ate all weekend, but what the hell, you gotta fall off the wagon every once in a while.

Back to running and eating right today. Enjoy the pictures, Be well - Sank

Nancy and Spike the Hot Dog Bull Dog and Nancy and I at the entrance with Beads and edible candy necklaces

Nancy in the Pickle cutout as we were leaving the food fest

Tuuka Rask in the goal for the Bruins. A few seconds after this pic one of the Carolina players ran over Rask, which resulted in 2 nice fights. Gotta love hockey

1208 lb pumpkin at the Big E

This Clydesdale was beautiful. HUGE but beautiful

Saturday OFF

2009-09-26T11:55:00.002-04:00

For the first time in a while I am actually taking all of Saturday off from everything! No work, no house stuff, no runs, no nothing. Nancy and I are heading out to the Phanton Gourment Food Festival behind Fenway Park from noon to 4 and then finishing off the day going to the Bruins game at the new Garden.

I am really looking forward to not worrying about what to do or when to be there and just have a great day with the wife. Will be posting some pics of the day (probably tomorrow as there are some beer tents at the Phantom event and cant guarantee picture clarity). Sorry Bruins (and Red Sox and Patriots and Celtics) but I really have a hard time buying $8 beers. Not to mention that 99% of the beers (if that is what you want to call them) are watered down, rice based, domestic crap. Yeah I know what am I some kind of communist snob, ragging on the good old Budweisers and Millers of the world. Damn it boy they are the back bone of our country. Blah blah blah cry me a river....given me a nice heavy, micro, overly hopped, dark amber, freshly made, small batch brew anyday of the week. If the micros ever went away I think I would just go to drinking Mountain Dew Code Red's all day. Now maybe I should add a weekly beer review section to this blog. Hmmmmmmmmm, that could be fun. Not that detailed, just if I liked it, hated it, and why. Oh well, sobriety is so over rated.

Anyway, look for some pics later, should be a great day. Haven't had much husband and wife only time lately and I am looking forward to the day.

I guess I will pay for today's festivities when I get back on the trails with Belle tomorrow (after my "lets run roads only to save my IT band" hiatis) but hey isnt that one of the reasons we all run anyway.

Have a great Saturday all.

Sank

VO2 and anchovies

2009-09-24T12:24:00.002-04:00

I was entering my training run on Running ahead and I noticed when I enter the time as well that it comes up with my VO2 Max for that particular run. Well it has been a very long time since I was a true running junkie (geek story to follow) and I had forgotten all about VO2 and latic acid, blah blah blah. So I hit google and it comes up with many a thousand hits, and off I go. Seems that for my age and training level that it is actually not to bad for right now.

I am actually pretty happy with this week. Started out poorly (well if taking a few days off to take care of a screaming IT problem is consider being poor) but with resting for a few days and tonite's crazy schedule is going to make getting out fairly difficult. But now with two runs both right in the low 8:20's pace, my feeling is that this is a very strong indicator for me that my footwork is improving. Am planning on getting in some LSD's this weekend, and maybe a Fartlek here and there. Have to watch that knee, but hopefully I am on the mend. But back to the VO2 part, that my numbers seem to be going up as my times are going down. Just another thing to play around with.

Now for my geek running junkie addict quick story: Many a moon ago when "Boston" Bill Rodgers was dominating the marathon scene, I was grabbing every publication and newspaper that I could get my hands on about Bill, the Boston Marathon, Nutrition, what have you. Well I read one day that Bill's favorite pizza was anchovies and green peppers. I can tell you that the local House of Pizza wasn't quite ready for the near-daily orders of A&GP pizzas. Didn't help my running much, but they were pretty damn tasty.

Happy training all and as always, Be well - Sank

Happy Fall Everyone! (plus training update)

2009-09-22T09:51:00.005-04:00

Well Summer is over, and the sound of the birds chirping as you run down the trails will be replaced by the crunching and rustling of the colorful autumnal leaves on the ground.

Well I have officially given up on my 100 mile month goal for September but rather to build up my knee so that I can survive the winter and my goal of Boston in 2010.

On another goal setting front, Nanc has announced her goal of running the Timberman Sprint Triathlon in 2010, so who knows maybe I will jump back into doing a few Tri's again. She has always wanted to do one, am I am very proud of her for picking one. Which as you know, picking the race is the first and biggest step. Well heading out to run in the sleet and cold of a New England winter maybe the biggest step, but you know what I mean.

Well can't wait to lace them up this aft/evening. Be well - Sank

Amended 7:08pm EST - Just got back from running one of my beginning routes. I decided to do this loop (albeit less than 3 miles) as I have had some luck with the knee the last few days with the PT exercises and my right ankle was fairly happy from the 2 days rest. Besides that, I had gotten home late and had to take my son, Kevin, to swim practice and only had a few extra minutes or I was either going to have to skip it or run in the dark (not fun since we live on a fairly busy road). Wow talk about making a short story long.

So I lace up and off I go on the Tremont Street loop. And surprisingly I felt great so I decided to just go with it. It was just one of those nights when things came together and I actually average 8:22/mile WITH stopping twice to tie my shoes. I am very psyched!

Good night all & 'til then, be well - Sank