A on-site discussion on the trials, tribulations and triumphs of some Oakville endurance runners. Use the "comments" box below the blog to add your feedback.
I thought I would start this off as Dave has been kind enough to set it up for us all.
My major concern/ anxiety about Detroit is getting there in time to sort out my issues with immigration at the expo ( apparently being British and only a Canadian resident as opposed to a citizen i need to have an interview). What time is anyone/everyone thinking of leaving Oakville on 28th October and are we planning on car pooling?
Hey Jo, Good question. We chat chat about it this Thursday night at the store...maynbe carpool or have a convoy down there. You may want to contact the folks at the marathon (or customs) ahead of time to ensure you have the proper documentation.
Ok...so I am officially nervous!!! Which according to Dave is normal...because if I was not nervous it means that I did not work had enough. :) ... and my IT is telling me I definitely worked hard enough.
Until last night I was flip flopping like a fish about my time goal, and a bit apprehensive about committing to a "3:45". However, I agree with Dave that unless I commit to this time I will not do everything I can to achieve it.
So my mantra for the next 2 weeks is "you can do a 3:45".
I am planning on giving it my all ... and, I am sure the tether that I plan to attach to one of the Kenyan's will help greatly!!!! :)
Ha-ha...hey Chris...if I hear that airhorn honking me at mile 18...you better make sure you have your running shoes on...(or at least run towards the finishing line as I chase after you).
Thanks for your support "Garvin"...it's all about the 3:15 male-bonding!
Poor Mourve is the only one stuck in Canada the night before the race(didn't book in time - go figure!) and doesn't have a room in Detroit! If anyone knows or hears of an available room... poor, poor Mourve!
As a charter member of the half full Society,I must retort to said anon. All part of the journey! All part of the growth! And come race day, alone, but undaunted, I will turn my face to the rising sun and say..." Please, mr customs failed policeman person, do kindly holster your weapon and let me across the border....and stop laughing I really can run a marathon...."-------DEAR GOD IN HEAVEN WILL NO ONE TAKE ME IN!!!!!"
Thanks Chris ( whoops - sorry I forgot you were anonymous!) How do you fancy chasing me round the entire course with that air horn - I could do with some help of the extreme kind to even break 4 hours! Congratulations to the lovely and long suffering Henny for yesterdays amazing race you must be really proud of her!
I wanted to thank you for being such a great group and sharing the many hours we ran together. You made the runs easy and I enjoyed the many talks, jokes and races we did together. I know that you are ready for your race and wish you the best of luck. You will do great!
I know I will be running with Jamie and he will be a great support in Chicago.
Shelby and Merv, make sure you do your 16 Km race pace next Saturday. Try to get together and do the 16 Km together, as it is easier to run at the race pace with someone. Try to stay within the pace 4:43 to 4:48 if you are taking walking breaks or 5:00 minutes/km if you are not taking breaks. Bring with you the expected lapsed times for the pace and check them at the appropriate time, i.e., at 1, 3, 5, 7...Kms. Try to stay within the time. Remember that you can not bank time as it means that at the end you will get tired. You will have a lot of support from Joe and Dave, so stay together, but bring your pace bands just in case you get separated.
Best of luck in your marathons and I will talk to you at the re-union.
Is it just me or does everyone else who is waiting to run this marathon have to keep going to the washroom every half an hour? 29th October cannot come soon enough for me - I'm soooooo envious of all the Toronto marathoners who have finished their race.
I never felt like this before Mississauga. I'm blaming it on these Blogs!
Best of luck to all of you who will be running Detroit. I know that you will do well. I will follow you through the website. Are you getting together next Thursday for a beer? Mario
Hey guys - if you want to read the inspiring stories about your pace-leader race day rabbits - go to http://www.detroitfreepressmarathon.com/pacer_bios.pdf
Hi Everyone, Have an Awesome Race…Best wishes for everyone running Detroit!!
Jo – Hopefully, you will make it across the boarder in fashionable time. If you happen to arrive late to the expo, they tend to give you more. I got 12 boxes of Baguettes Crackers at the Toronto expo…Yummy!! With Chris and his Air Horn…I’m sure you will make your time goal…question is will the air horn survive?
ML – I know you can do 3:45! Prior to Toronto my emotions were all over the place! Thank you for your comments in the Toronto blog!! Really, appreciate it! :)
Hopefully, Mourve has found a place to stay and if not a really comfortable car to sleep in!
I always find Beer the best for nerves and there is nothing like "liquid bread" for the serious athletes...let the carb loading begin.
Grace - thanks for your message ... I will add that to my marathon mantra list ..."I know you can do 3:45".
Joe - thanks for your message. Feeling more confident today after doing my 16-km race pace solo (in Stanley Park ... simply beautiful!) ... definitely missed my 3:45 girls, but they had a terrific run too. So that means WE ARE TOTALLY READY TO DO THIS!!!!!!!!!!
3:15ers - We will be expecting your LOUD CHEERS for the last 30-minutes of our race!
3:30ers - Same goes for you, for the last 15-minutes of our race!
Hi to all the HHB' marathon runners doing Detroit:
You have nothing to fear! You had done your training and now is time to enjoy the marathon course in Detroit! The tempo runs, hill work, Fartleks and long runs have prepared you for this Sunday! The few aches and pains during this week are natural. To get rid of them go for a short 3 Km easy run on Saturday. Remember to pack all the items you will need for the race and the food for your breakfast for Sunday morning including bowls and spoons. If you are able to, put your name on the front of your running shirt that you will be using on Sunday. It is great to hear the crowds cheering and calling your name!
Sorry I will not be present to cheer you on, but I will be glued to the computer following your progress. Best of luck and enjoy. You all are ready to climb to the summit of the mountain! Best of luck, and look forward to the stories. Mario
You will all do great. There's strength in numbers and with the big group of you + the crowds that show up to cheer at U.S. marathons you will have blast.
Enjoy the cheering, run your pace and come back with great stories.
And do me a favour...as 4:44 group leader I won't be in Detroit so be sure to watch for Audrey and Iona coming across the finishing line for me and cheer them on. Thanks Tom
Now that pity has been bestowed upon me,...and I am grateful girls...can somebody lend me a left leg please? Never mind, who needs a new left leg when we all have such great support from each other. OMG; I have Peeps! Run Forrest, run!
Good Luck to all the Marathon Runers in Detroit (sounds good eyh Michelle)try and stick together and use the group by "drafting" to your advantage. Will be there in spirit, planning to do some meditation and send good vibes toward Detroit. Stick to your plan and try our new mantra starting at 20 miles, "the faster you run the sooner you'r done".
I have a new mantra to add to Mike's - " smile like France" I have tried it whilst running at race pace this week and it does help! On Sunday every time I feel bad I will attempt to smile - I'll try anything to trick that left brain!
Thanks for all the good wishes, everyone! AND ..... have you seen the latest weather for Detroit???? Sunny with cloudy periods 10% POP...... yipppeeeeee!!! Can't get any better!
The "blogwaves" seem to be slowing down as we approach this Sunday ... so, I just wanted to say to everyone running Detroit (including myself)....GOOD LUCK!!!!
I know that we are all going to be AMAZED at how deep we dig on Sunday, and in awe of what we accomplish!
Before we run this one on Sunday I just wanted thank everyone for their amazing support during this clinic - it has been so much fun running, drinking, stressing and laughing with you all.
I really want to thank B'Ann for her support - she has been an amazing group leader, always positive, supportive and encouraging - not an easy job with the psychotic 3:45 group! Go B'Ann have a great run on Sunday! And don't worry about the rest of us!!
To everybody running Detroit - we can do this , we are strong, we trained for it!
To anybody on the sidewalk with an airhorn - please remind me of the above LOUDLY if you see me looking sad!
Smile like France! The faster you run the sooner you're done!
I brought one of the spongebob sponges home from the Toronto Marathon, and have had it perched on my sink ledge in the kitchen ever since. The line 'Best Day Ever' was written on the sponge, and has help to emphasize positive thinking (further to France's point of 'Best Day Ever'). Yesterday, my son started to sing a song, and as it turns out, it comes from Sponge bob's movie CD. He pulled out his CD for me and started to play it. Now, I've got this spongebob song stuck in my head, and it won't go away! Hopefully, it'll continue to emphasize positive thinking for me leading up to Sunday!
Alright you Detroit Marathoners, it is miserable and cold here in Oakville, but the forecast for Detroit is 70%sun,30%showers and 8 degrees. Sounds like a PB day for everyone.
Good luck gang and for any first timers have a great run you will feel fantastic during the run and at the end. Let's see those medals!! Tom
Thanks for all the good wishes, we all appreciate it. Mind you right now I wish I had picked an earlier marathon and was now finished. My number is 646, wasn't going to give it but it might help me run faster knowing someone might check up on me. See you at the reunion. B'Ann
Great idea B'Ann - my number is 1244 - I remember Jamie saying last night that the only thing that kept him going was knowing that everybody was tracking him back in Oakville.
I just went through all the results and what a contingent of HHB Runners! Very impressive times.(and Jo they let you across the border)!
A special congratulations to my team members Audrey and Iona. Looks like you stayed together all the way-great teamwork and support during the training and on the course today! Congrats Marathoners!! Tom
Just wanted to send my congratulations to all the Detroit marathoners today. It was pretty windy out on that course but I saw a lot of people tough it out. I'm afraid it wasn't my day but when one of us has a great race...we all have a great race!
My heart sank when I stepped out this morning (to go out to the RR) think of you in Detroit. The wind was strong and mixed with rain; I hope it was better in Detroit. Ran with Heather and heard about her Chicago run, we did send some good vibes to Detroit but not sure if they made it in time due to headwinds. Hope to see you Detroit Marathoners next Thursday at the designated place, at 8 PM to hear your story. Congratulations to all for the determination in training and the effort. Michelle you did fantastic, I can hardly wait to hear how your race went.
I want to congratulate all of you on your completion of the Detroit Marathon. You did very well even though the weather did not cooperate. Also, I want to congratulate those who were doing their first marathon. I understand that the wind was very strong; however you persisted and managed to finish. Time to take a well deserved rest. I look forward to hearing the stories this Thursday. Congratulations to those who qualified for Boston! Bring your medal on Thursday.
A big congratulations to everyone out on the course today. It was windy and cool but you all looked fantastic. Look forward to hearing all the stories.
Motor City?... It should take over for Chicago and be called the Windy City! You guys all looked powerful out there. BTW - they do mix a good martini in Detroit!
I want to add my hearty congratulations to all the athletes who did Detroit! I did the Half, which I found tough going sometimes with the wind (fortunately we had sunny skies and good temperatures which helped us), but I am very impressed with those who continued on to do the Full marathon!! I heard it was especially windy on Belle Island ...to those of you who were able to persevere and finish, you are all winners!!! Special kudos to first time marathoners Audrey and Iona who did a great job at finishing with a smile on your face and got a fabulous medal for your efforts! Now on to think about the next marathon....
Here is my account of my less than inspiring Detroit experience.
I had a great first half. B'Ann and I stuck together and made it over the very long bridge and survived the tunnel. Parts of the course through Detroit were very windy but I was still feeling pretty good. Our split at the half was about 1:56 and apart from a few low moments, I still felt strong.
Fast track to 25K. My training for mississauga had been disrupted by stomach problems. I changed my nutrition and played around with a few combinations before finding something that worked. This time around I had no problems through training and was feeling good for the marathon. At 25K my stomach began to feel VERY acidy and I started to let out some rather huge burps (I am soooo sorry B'Ann). We crossed onto Belle Island (aka the windiest place on EARTH!!!!) and things started to go downhill fast. B'Ann and I parted at about 27-28K as she was much stronger. I continued doing 10's and 1's until 30K when I knew that something was really off. I quickly made my way to the side of the road where I discretly threw up next to a bush. I felt better for a while after that but I knew I had to continue taking fuilds and after about two water stations I knew I would have another meeting with the side of the road. Jo (the British one) caught me just before 35K. She ran up and put her arm around me which gave me a huge boost. We stayed together for about 1k until I had to throw up again (I am so sorry if reading this is making anyone sick). I did a combination of short walks and very slow short runs until I got to the last two k and ran myself in. I felt awful upon finishing and was SO happy to see the Joe, Shelby, Merv and the amazing 3:45 group waiting for me. I have to say a huge thank you to all of you for helping me get out of Ford Field and find Allan. I really think I would have been in the medical tent without you!
I will put this marathon down in the books as a character building experience. I felt low for a bit afterwards, worrying that my sickness was more to do with my body not wanting to run 42.2K rather then understanding that in all likeliness I had picked up a stomach bug from one of my little Kindergarten darlings. As Cheryl pointed out, the marathon is really about the journey getting to the start. I loved every minute running with the 3:45 girls! So what if the last 42.2K was a little rough, the previous 900K were great!!!!
Take Care,
Kathy
PS - a huge congratulations to all those who qualified or re-qualified for Boston. You are all AMAZING!!!
First off, thank you all so much for your support.
A huge thanks to Chris, Henny, and France for coming down to windy Detroit to cheer us on.
And thank you to everyone here at home cheering us on and sending us your positive energy.
The experience was awesome. It all started with a fun-filled drive down to Detroit with B'Ann, Cheryl and Jo. The time flew by, both due to the endless pee-breaks and the constant chatter going on in the car.
Words cannot express how amazing it was to be experiencing this race with so many people.
As everyone who was in Detroit yesterday knows, the winds were absolutely brutal, much like I understand they were here...so that made for an interesting run...especially because they were coming from EVERY direction, and included gusts. I honestly believe that if you can run in that you can run in anything.
I had such a great day - I loved every minute of it, and felt so good the whole race. Because of the wind we fell behind pace by two minutes by mile 20...on the lovely Belle Isle. I was feeling strong at this point ... and then heard the words "Go" from Steph so at that point I left Cheryl and Steph and was running the last 6.2 miles solo. I was really enjoying the crowds, the runners and the whole experience. I had studied the route map so while we did not drive the route, I felt that I knew where I was going and what lied ahead of me.
I was ticking along ... using my counting method (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10) - which for me acted like a metrodome and kept my pace. At mile 22 my calves started cramping - something I had never experienced before, and let me tell you they were none too cooperative. When the first twinge happended I said out loud, "...you have to be *&^%$#@ kidding me". I had no option but to walk when it cramped. So at that point I decided to let go of my 10 and 1s and walk any time my calves were screaming at me. This seemed to work, and between my short walks and the gatorade stops I got through the last 4.2 miles. I lost another minute with this little dance I was doing with my calves, but still felt really good and had gas left in the tank.
I had a loud-mouthed runner next to me (who was on the course running some of the relayers in) - he kept yelling at me "you can do this Mary Lynn". His pace was a sprint, so he was the perfect person to meet up with at the last 1/2 mile mark.
I went into this marathon with a huge goal of 3:45. I honestly thought it was a dream because that meant I would have to take off 23-minutes from my one and only marathon of 4:08 two years ago. I mentally prepared for weeks, but really invested in preparing my head for the last several days. I knew while a lofty goal, if my body cooperated on race day my head would get me there.
So I lost 2-minutes to the wind, and 1-minute to my calf cramps. I came in at 3:48. I am very happy with my accomplishment. While I missed Boston by 3-minutes, I had a PB and bettered my time by shaving off 20-minutes. 3:45 does not seem so far away now.
So what did I learn? That the 3:45ers are some of the strongest people I know. They made the 4 months of training an absolutely unbelievable experience.
I learned that setting a huge goal is the best way to approach a race - the night Dave told us to commit was the night I comitted to 3:45 and from that day forward worked on mentally envisioning me accomplishing that goal.
I learned that I absolutely love the marathon, and will plan on another for the spring of 2007.
And, I learned that winds like we experienced, while at the time seem like a cruel joke, make you strong, and teach you perserverance.
I am a bit sore today - especially my left IT (which funny enough did not hurt at all during the training), but nothing that some Advil, stretching, hottub and a massage won't help. :)
I have been training with the 3.45 group in an attempt to finally run a marathon in under 4 hours. I have struggled through parts of the training but have emerged a stronger and faster runner and most importantly I have had an amazing time with the 3:45 girls. So as I approached Sunday I felt confident that I could run under 4 hours and to quote Dave, I planned my race and intended to race my plan.
We had a hilarious trip down to Detroit and after what seemed like an eternity being fingerprinted and having my retinas scanned I was finally allowed to enter the USA. Then it was off to the Expo for another immigration interview before I could finally collect my number.
After a fairly sleepless night ( well, I was sharing a room with B'Ann who was possibly even more nervous than me) marathon day dawned bright and more than a little breezy, in fact it was blowing a gale and it was extremely chilly. We made our way to the start and it was fantastic to meet up with Joe, Dave and Dave - we all hugged each other, wished each other luck and I promptly burst into tears because I couldn't get a signal on my Garmin!
My plan was to run at 3:55 pace so I knew I would be alone throughout the race and I was prepared for that. The initial pace was slow as there were so many people and it was a nice surprise to be able to run the first 10 and 1 with the rest of the girls. After that i consciously pulled back from them as I knew I would blow up if I tried to run with them at 3:45 pace.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first half, I had no problem keeping to pace and the winds were actually quite light as we ran through Windsor. I thought to myself " I do believe the training has worked - I'm on pace and I'll definately finish in under 4". I ran through the tunnel a little too fast and I knew it ( my underwater mile was 30 seconds too fast) but I had no signal and decided I would keep up with the 3:55 pace bunny instead. As I emerged into Detroit again i still felt strong although a little peterbed that I still didn't have a pace on my Garmin and I was missing the mile markers so was unable to use my paceband.
At about 11 miles ( 19K) my calves started to cramp and I was mightily cross - I didn't want to have crampy calves for the next 15 miles so I stopped drimnking water and switched entirely to Gatorade. I ran through the half in good time and still felt I could run in in under 4 but was angry and cursing loudly about my increasingly crampy calves. At this point I started having to pull up and walk a few steps to make the cramps subside. On one such occasion a woman ran past, bumped me and knocked me to the ground - it wasn't entirely her fault but she was mortified!
And so it continued until the Island where the gusting wind seemed to make me run backwards and totally sapped my strength - it also blew my hat off twice and I had to intentionally run backwards to fetch it! By the time i got to 20 miles i was a whole 7 minutes off pace and pretty exhausted. I decided to listen to my IPod for inspiration. Now one thing you must do is prepare a playlist for these occasions - let me tell you, Sade's " Your love is king" doesn't really provide the right vibe in a marathon! Then horrors, my ipod stopped working! My Gatorade bag in my fuel belt had burst open and the whole thing was covered in sticky yellow gunk - I spent 2 minutes at the next walk break trying to sort it out! My right brain was screaming "what the hell are you doing you're meant to be running a marathon!" my left brain was worrying about what Mark would say to me when he discovered I had gunked up my Ipod with gatorade!
Then i saw Kathy walking dejectedly along the side of the road and looking as if she was about to throw up. I ran and walked with her for a while - dicussing the architecture - there really were some lovely houses at 35K!Then I looked round and she wasn't there, apparently 5 minutes with me had actually made her vomit - poor thing!
And then it was just one foot in front of the other until the finish . My calf cramps were receding owing to gallons of gatorade and numerous gels and amazingly by the end I was able to resume my 10 and 1s! I knew I had overshot my goal so I just enjoyed the end of the race and loved the crowds on the way into the stadium. It was just a short run down the vertical overheated ramp into the stadium and a near death experience with a 10 year old boy zig zagging in front of me. I bellowed " get out of my way " at him and literally sprinted into the stadium to the sound of Chris shouting my name ( sorry Henny and France I didn't hear your delicate voices!). I finished, turned to my left, heard my name being screamed by the 3:45 girls and Joe- my face was frozen in a rictus grin - I was exhausted but elated !
What a wonderful experience - very annoying at times, but hugely satisfying and i got to share it with my friends!
What would i do differently 1) Drink gatorade all day the day before like all the other sensible people.
2) Run 1600s in speedwork instead of 800s
3) Prepare a more inspiring playlist for marathon day!
4) Not carry a bag of loose gatorade powder in the same place as my IPod!
5) never ever ever walk between walk breaks ever!
At the end of the day I ran 4:13, only 2 minutes quicker than Mississauga and 10 minutes shy of my PB but I enjoyed the whole experience so much more thanks to you guys and I'm not injured. I'll be back ( sorry Dave, Chris and Joe!)and I'll try to do it next time!
Thanks to all my pace group for putting up with me and particularly to B'Ann who really has believed that i could do this thing.
Thanks to everyone who left such nice comments - I had a great run for my first marathon and considering all the problems I had with my knees in the month leading up to it - I was sooooo very happy that I got through the whole race with no problems. Not only that - I feel pretty good today! The wind was certainly a challenge, especially on Belle Island, but I managed to make it through feeling pretty good - still smiling and able to dance to the music of the Elvis impersonator!! It was a great experience and I'll definitely be back, hopefully next time I'll finish with a much better time!!
Congratulations everyone! Its so great to see the inspirational messages from everyone!
It was a tough day for me. I stuggled over the past month with a torn hamstring, and then substantially reduced training. Last week (as Dave had warned us), I started fighting a cold as well, and popped tons of Cold FX and Echinessia tea. At the end of the day, my cardio just wasnt where it need to be due to the lost training. If only I could have run my marathon a month earlier prior to the hamstring issue! Also, on Marathon day, my nose was so stuffed up, I was doing the runners nose drainage routine that usually grosses me out (block one nostril with one finger, blow hard out through the other one). With the wind in Detroit, I kept looking around to make sure I wouldnt hit anyone. I never thought running would make me stoop to this manoeuver!
In the end, it was a fabulous day! I would definitely recommend the Detroit marathon (minus the crazy wind) to anyone considering it. To the medal hoes out there - its a great piece of hardware!
I was feeling great during the first 17 km, and kept right on pace. It was helpful seeing Chris, Henny & France just before the half way mark. It was closely prior to seeing them that I knew I was starting to fade, but their yelling at me helped provide a boost of energy!
By the half way mark, I was 3 minutes behind my goal. And it just got worse after that. I felt great going over the first bridge, and then through the tunnel. It was the second bridge that really did me in! The wind was SSOOOO strong, you really needed to fight it to keep moving forward. It was at that point that I ran for a short distance with two other marathoners. I said to them, Remind me why we do this. The first one said, Because we can. And the second one said, Because my father struggled for 30 years with heart disease. It definitely helped put things into perspective.
So, I SUCKED IT UP, and pushed myself on. Even though my missed training due to injuries prevented me from achieving my goals that day, I had a revised plan to finish JUST BECAUSE I CAN.
Special thanks to my training buddies! Thanks for the long runs, the jokes, coffee & beer! In Daves words, I want to be that 70 year old still running marathons. Believe it or not, at the end of the day, the pain is fun. Fun because it helps to remind us of the journey it took in getting there. I will definitely be back for more in January!
I felt like an old Ford Pinto pulling into town, muffler dragging behind. I met some interesting Americans taking how it was so windy near the border. (like there's some geographical phenomenon) I said it is windy all the time like this in Canada. I had time to talk with other dejected runners walking the last 1/2. I look forward to my next attempt at 3:30, but will be two years away, as I am training for an ironman next year. Not sure how that will go but its all for the experience and it did feel good to see another finish line. After that day, I think I should bring a sail for the bike.
I never know what to write after my marathon. Although I am absolutely overjoyed to have completed yet another marathon. I am somehow sad that it has come to an end. I am certain that is why I commit to do it all over again.
My marathon training was great. I couldn't have asked to be with a better group of people, but unfortunatly you never know what the day itself will bring. It is after all only one 42 k run. My day was not great. The week before was not the best. Headaches everyday, not that hungry and very nervous as I knew 3:45 was ambitious (3:50 is my number). The drive down was comedy from the word go. From the many bathroom stops and the banana smuggling incident at the border. Thanks Jo!!!! The night was sleepless. The race well it was tough. I usually have a great first half and had already had 4 very low points by the half way mark, I was only about 2.5 mins off my goal time and was still hopefull. The wind on Belle Island sucked it out of me. I felt like crap. My head hurt. My stomach hurt and I was sucking it up the best I knew how. I pulled out my MP3 player turned it on to hear "Had a bad Day" at least that made me laugh. Somehow I managed to stick to my 10 and 1's no matter how deperatly my body begged me to stop. The last 3 miles for me were the worst, but I am learning that I can run through almost anything. And again as I was about to enter For field, 3 Relay team mates of a runner jump in in front of me, side by side running slowly to run in with their team mate. Finally a very vocal woman behind me yelled at them to move. Deja vu. I managed to finish and qualify for the 2008 Boston (thank god for being old). Thanks to Chris, Henny and their kids and France for coming to cheer us on. I heard you and saw you at various points in the race and it really did help. Also thanks to the wonderful 3:45 girlies, you made this an experience I will never forget. Congratulations to everyone, we are all amazing!!!!!!!! Here's to the next one. B'Ann
Hi Guys, On Sunday, I walked off the Detroit marathon course after 20 km - something I had never done before. After a few days of recharging the baterries and trying to figure out what happened I thought I would write a few lines.
I always had three rules on race day. 1. Don't get injured 2. Finish the race 3. Go for a time. I think I will have to add a fourth rule (more about that later).
Some of you know I did the Ironman in July and while I had PBs in the swim and the bike, my run was more like a limping-walk (due to calf cramps because of dehydration) So so the IM was a little discouraging for me. I decided to sign up for Detroit to a) get that out of my system b) try for another shot at Boston and c) hang with my buds in our pacegroup.
Although I was in the 3:15 pace group - my goal was a 3:30 marathon. I was using the 3 times a week running, 2 times a week cross-training strategy recommended by Runners World. Therefore I could do long runs at one pace group faster.
Leading up to Detroit, I would say I was about 90% ready physically and 15% ready mentally. I've put a lot on my plate this year with work, speaking and other issues and I can't really say that I was as focused as much as I should have been.
My bod seemed OK but I noticed that about a week before the marathon, I started having sleepless nights and that hasn't happened for about 10 years. Much of the reason I teach these courses is to have as much fun as all of you and it didn't seem to be happening this time around. (I suppose I should also tell you that what happened a year ago with Chris at Scotia still affects me whenever I try to push myself too hard...or see some of you really pushing yourselves).
I could see the excitement and energy with all the group the night before the race but all I could think about was trying to focus on how I was going to do a 3:30:00. I had done a 3:37 a year at Scotia (I headed out a little too quick otherwise feel sure I would have got a 3:30)and it seemed a lot more fun back then.
Joe was a fantastic buddy. We headed out together and he mentioned this was my race and he was there to make sure we were headed to Boston together. He even joked that Barbara had given him permission to kick my ass. I must have said 4 words in the first 20 kilometers and (as you well know) that's not like me. My brain was racing a mile a minute thinking about a) work b) home c) lecture material d) Boston e) the wind f) why the hell Joe was laughing and waving to people and high-fiving dudes on the course and having fun because I should have been doing that instead of him and why the hell wasn't I having any fun like he was?????) It was likely the toughest 20 kilometers in my life. From time to time, Joe would look over and ask if I was OK and mention this was just another long run. (I would think...who the hell do he think he is saying that positive crap...Dave Howlett?) I would mumble something through my haze about how nice a day it was.
I tried everything. The power of positive thinking? Didn't work. Counting footsteps? Nope. Mantras? Lasted about 2 minutes. Then the "self-doubt" stuff started creeping in just after the tunnel. Physically I fell pretty good but my brain kept saying "why the heck are you doing this?" Then I tried to think catalogue many people I would disappont by not doing a 3:30 or even finishing the race. Yikes...not a good strategy.
So Joe and I came out of the tunnel and we headed up to the 1/2 marathon checkpoint. We were on pace (about 1 minute ahead), doing our 10 and 1's, nutriotion felt good, hydration felt adequate, a little windy, people were cheering etc etc. At about 20 km I just stopped and said to Joe, "I'm going to find Barbara, that's it for me." I'll give my buddy credit, people cheering the race must have found it odd to see one guy trying to haul another guy back on the route. But I knew as soon as I stopped that it would likely be the most disappointing day of my life.
So I've spent the last few days having a think on what happened. I haven't got any solid answers except that maybe we start to look at 42 kilometers just like a long run when in reality it is not. It's a pretty high mountain and if you are going to climb it, your head (as well as your body) has to be in the game. And if you are going to race for a time, you really have to want it as things will not get any easier as the race goes on. Everyday, we read about the value of "multi-tasking" but mental focus is extremely important on race day and that is something I have to work on.
So what is my goal from now on? I honestly don't know. I have to address key questions like a) are marathons the right distance for me? b) should I continue to try for a Boston qualifier or do I really want it that badly? c) can I juggle marathon training with other commitments or should I just coach people?
Regardless, here is my addition to "the famous three":
1. Don't get injured 2. Finish the race 3. Go for a time. 4. No matter how the day ends, appreciate your friends, they value you for a lot more than just your race time.
---------------
Nothing is the world can take the place of perisistence.
Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent.
Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb.
Education alone will note; the world is full of educated derelicts.
Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.
Respect to you for adding your story - we all recognise the feelings that you describe very well. I would have happily walked off 2 of my marathons if I had been able to find my way back to my hotel.
You are so right about the value of friendship - at the end of the day nobody else really cares about your marathon performance it's your other qualities that are important.
Enjoy the break from running ( I know I am) and we will see you at the party.
62 comments:
Hi everyone
I thought I would start this off as Dave has been kind enough to set it up for us all.
My major concern/ anxiety about Detroit is getting there in time to sort out my issues with immigration at the expo ( apparently being British and only a Canadian resident as opposed to a citizen i need to have an interview). What time is anyone/everyone thinking of leaving Oakville on 28th October and are we planning on car pooling?
Jo
Hey Jo, Good question. We chat chat about it this Thursday night at the store...maynbe carpool or have a convoy down there. You may want to contact the folks at the marathon (or customs) ahead of time to ensure you have the proper documentation.
Ok...so I am officially nervous!!! Which according to Dave is normal...because if I was not nervous it means that I did not work had enough. :) ... and my IT is telling me I definitely worked hard enough.
Until last night I was flip flopping like a fish about my time goal, and a bit apprehensive about committing to a "3:45". However, I agree with Dave that unless I commit to this time I will not do everything I can to achieve it.
So my mantra for the next 2 weeks is "you can do a 3:45".
I am planning on giving it my all ... and, I am sure the tether that I plan to attach to one of the Kenyan's will help greatly!!!! :)
ML.
Bonjour,
Henny and I have booked a hotel in Detroit and are bringing the family to watch how the elite runners perform (That’s you bunch not team Kenya).
I will have the air horns out and will be on your ass if I see any slacking!
If we do not talk before then we will see you throughout the race and at the end.
Enjoy the race and best of luck!
Cheers!
Chris Wight
Oh my God - that's all we need!
At least Henny and the kids will be kind to us!
Jo
Ha-ha...hey Chris...if I hear that airhorn honking me at mile 18...you better make sure you have your running shoes on...(or at least run towards the finishing line as I chase after you).
Thanks for your support "Garvin"...it's all about the 3:15 male-bonding!
Bubbles.
Will the 3:15 boys be wearing their cowboy hats during the race?
France
sweet dreams
Poor Mourve is the only one stuck in Canada the night before the race(didn't book in time - go figure!) and doesn't have a room in Detroit! If anyone knows or hears of an available room... poor, poor Mourve!
As a charter member of the half full Society,I must retort to said anon. All part of the journey! All part of the growth! And come race day, alone, but undaunted, I will turn my face to the rising sun and say..." Please, mr customs failed policeman person, do kindly holster your weapon and let me across the border....and stop laughing I really can run a marathon...."-------DEAR GOD IN HEAVEN WILL NO ONE TAKE ME IN!!!!!"
Hey Mourve
Thought about asking the Brokeback Mountain Boys if you can share with them?
Jo
Hi Jo,
I have a feeling this is your race to qualify....you will be so sick of that AIR HORN in your ear you will run quick.
Your Friend
Thanks Chris ( whoops - sorry I forgot you were anonymous!) How do you fancy chasing me round the entire course with that air horn - I could do with some help of the extreme kind to even break 4 hours! Congratulations to the lovely and long suffering Henny for yesterdays amazing race you must be really proud of her!
Jo, you will have no problem getting in under 4 hours ... in fact isn't your goal 3:45????? :)
Chris - if that air horn can get us all in at 3:45 ... blast away!!!!
ML.
Hi Shelby, Merv and Jamie:
I wanted to thank you for being such a great group and sharing the many hours we ran together. You made the runs easy and I enjoyed the many talks, jokes and races we did together. I know that you are ready for your race and wish you the best of luck. You will do great!
I know I will be running with Jamie and he will be a great support in Chicago.
Shelby and Merv, make sure you do your 16 Km race pace next Saturday. Try to get together and do the 16 Km together, as it is easier to run at the race pace with someone. Try to stay within the pace 4:43 to 4:48 if you are taking walking breaks or 5:00 minutes/km if you are not taking breaks. Bring with you the expected lapsed times for the pace and check them at the appropriate time, i.e., at 1, 3, 5, 7...Kms. Try to stay within the time. Remember that you can not bank time as it means that at the end you will get tired. You will have a lot of support from Joe and Dave, so stay together, but bring your pace bands just in case you get separated.
Best of luck in your marathons and I will talk to you at the re-union.
Best regards,
Mario
Is it just me or does everyone else who is waiting to run this marathon have to keep going to the washroom every half an hour? 29th October cannot come soon enough for me - I'm soooooo envious of all the Toronto marathoners who have finished their race.
I never felt like this before Mississauga. I'm blaming it on these Blogs!
Nervously
Jo
Hi there:
Best of luck to all of you who will be running Detroit. I know that you will do well. I will follow you through the website. Are you getting together next Thursday for a beer?
Mario
A beer???? We are serious athletes!!!!!!!!!!
Will you be at the store tonight?
I could use alot more than a beer to calm these nerves. :) Thanks for the support Mario.
ML.
Hey guys - if you want to read the inspiring stories about your pace-leader race day rabbits - go to http://www.detroitfreepressmarathon.com/pacer_bios.pdf
Hi Everyone,
Have an Awesome Race…Best wishes for everyone running Detroit!!
Jo – Hopefully, you will make it across the boarder in fashionable time. If you happen to arrive late to the expo, they tend to give you more. I got 12 boxes of Baguettes Crackers at the Toronto expo…Yummy!! With Chris and his Air Horn…I’m sure you will make your time goal…question is will the air horn survive?
ML – I know you can do 3:45! Prior to Toronto my emotions were all over the place! Thank you for your comments in the Toronto blog!! Really, appreciate it! :)
Hopefully, Mourve has found a place to stay and if not a really comfortable car to sleep in!
I always find Beer the best for nerves and there is nothing like "liquid bread" for the serious athletes...let the carb loading begin.
Grace
Good luck in Detroit gang.
You are definitely overshadowing the Tigers in the World Series!
Air horn's? Boots? Hats? BrokeBack Boys? Sounds like Mardi Gras not a marathon.
Have a great run I'll be sending you "speed vives" as I'm sauntering along at a blistering 5:30 pace.
Tom
Hey guys,
Grace - thanks for your message ... I will add that to my marathon mantra list ..."I know you can do 3:45".
Joe - thanks for your message. Feeling more confident today after doing my 16-km race pace solo (in Stanley Park ... simply beautiful!) ... definitely missed my 3:45 girls, but they had a terrific run too. So that means WE ARE TOTALLY READY TO DO THIS!!!!!!!!!!
3:15ers - We will be expecting your LOUD CHEERS for the last 30-minutes of our race!
3:30ers - Same goes for you, for the last 15-minutes of our race!
8 more sleeps!
3:45, 3:45, 3:45....
Bib #731.
Mary Lynn
Hi to all the HHB' marathon runners doing Detroit:
You have nothing to fear! You had done your training and now is time to enjoy the marathon course in Detroit! The tempo runs, hill work, Fartleks and long runs have prepared you for this Sunday! The few aches and pains during this week are natural. To get rid of them go for a short 3 Km easy run on Saturday. Remember to pack all the items you will need for the race and the food for your breakfast for Sunday morning including bowls and spoons. If you are able to, put your name on the front of your running shirt that you will be using on Sunday. It is great to hear the crowds cheering and calling your name!
Sorry I will not be present to cheer you on, but I will be glued to the computer following your progress. Best of luck and enjoy. You all are ready to climb to the summit of the mountain!
Best of luck, and look forward to the stories.
Mario
To the Detroit Contingent:
You will all do great. There's strength in numbers and with the big group of you + the crowds that show up to cheer at U.S. marathons you will have blast.
Enjoy the cheering, run your pace and come back with great stories.
And do me a favour...as 4:44 group leader I won't be in Detroit so be sure to watch for Audrey and Iona coming across the finishing line for me and cheer them on.
Thanks Tom
Now that pity has been bestowed upon me,...and I am grateful girls...can somebody lend me a left leg please? Never mind, who needs a new left leg when we all have such great support from each other. OMG; I have Peeps! Run Forrest, run!
Good Luck to all the Marathon Runers in Detroit (sounds good eyh Michelle)try and stick together and use the group by "drafting" to your advantage. Will be there in spirit, planning to do some meditation and send good vibes toward Detroit. Stick to your plan and try our new mantra starting at 20 miles, "the faster you run the sooner you'r done".
Hi Guys
I have a new mantra to add to Mike's - " smile like France" I have tried it whilst running at race pace this week and it does help! On Sunday every time I feel bad I will attempt to smile - I'll try anything to trick that left brain!
I'm coming to Detroit to cheer you guys on. I will be conducting a smile check.
France
OH MY GOSH! That is so awesome France. Thank you!!!!! Can't wait to see you on the course.
Thanks to everyone for your great motivating comments - really, really appreciate it.
Mary Lynn
Hi
Now I really will have to smile!
Thanks for your support France I think we will all appreciate it it!
Jo
Hey Runners,
Just to let you know I have added a cow bell and whistle to compliment the air horn.
For those of you that cannot make it to the Queens Head for a drink tonight, I wish you all the best for Sunday's race. Enjoy it and keep smiling.
Cheers!
Chris
Marathoners
Enjoy your run this weekend.
Remember it's Daylight Savings this weekend so enjoy your extra hour of sleep.
Have a great race!
Jamie
Thanks for all the good wishes, everyone! AND ..... have you seen the latest weather for Detroit???? Sunny with cloudy periods 10% POP...... yipppeeeeee!!! Can't get any better!
Audrey
The "blogwaves" seem to be slowing down as we approach this Sunday ... so, I just wanted to say to everyone running Detroit (including myself)....GOOD LUCK!!!!
I know that we are all going to be AMAZED at how deep we dig on Sunday, and in awe of what we accomplish!
Take it easy today.
Stuff your face with yummy carbs!
And, see you all in Detroit tomorrow!
ML.
Hi All
Before we run this one on Sunday I just wanted thank everyone for their amazing support during this clinic - it has been so much fun running, drinking, stressing and laughing with you all.
I really want to thank B'Ann for her support - she has been an amazing group leader, always positive, supportive and encouraging - not an easy job with the psychotic 3:45 group! Go B'Ann have a great run on Sunday! And don't worry about the rest of us!!
To everybody running Detroit - we can do this , we are strong, we trained for it!
To anybody on the sidewalk with an airhorn - please remind me of the above LOUDLY if you see me looking sad!
Smile like France! The faster you run the sooner you're done!
Jo
I brought one of the spongebob sponges home from the Toronto Marathon, and have had it perched on my sink ledge in the kitchen ever since. The line 'Best Day Ever' was written on the sponge, and has help to emphasize positive thinking (further to France's point of 'Best Day Ever'). Yesterday, my son started to sing a song, and as it turns out, it comes from Sponge bob's movie CD. He pulled out his CD for me and started to play it. Now, I've got this spongebob song stuck in my head, and it won't go away! Hopefully, it'll continue to emphasize positive thinking for me leading up to Sunday!
Diane
Alright you Detroit Marathoners, it is miserable and cold here in Oakville, but the forecast for Detroit is 70%sun,30%showers and 8 degrees. Sounds like a PB day for everyone.
Good luck gang and for any first timers have a great run you will feel fantastic during the run and at the end.
Let's see those medals!!
Tom
HI to all the Detroit Marathoners from HHB. I know that you can do it and I will be cheering for you here at home.
Enjoy the race and best of luck. You will do well and will bring many PBs.
Mario
Thanks for all the good wishes, we all appreciate it. Mind you right now I wish I had picked an earlier marathon and was now finished.
My number is 646, wasn't going to give it but it might help me run faster knowing someone might check up on me.
See you at the reunion.
B'Ann
Great idea B'Ann - my number is 1244 - I remember Jamie saying last night that the only thing that kept him going was knowing that everybody was tracking him back in Oakville.
Jo
And mine is #731...
Mary Lynn
Almost forgot...my bib #827.
Cheryl
Wow, way to go you Marathoners!!!
I just went through all the results and what a contingent of HHB Runners! Very impressive times.(and Jo they let you across the border)!
A special congratulations to my team members Audrey and Iona. Looks like you stayed together all the way-great teamwork and support during the training and on the course today! Congrats Marathoners!!
Tom
Just wanted to send my congratulations to all the Detroit marathoners today. It was pretty windy out on that course but I saw a lot of people tough it out. I'm afraid it wasn't my day but when one of us has a great race...we all have a great race!
My heart sank when I stepped out this morning (to go out to the RR) think of you in Detroit. The wind was strong and mixed with rain; I hope it was better in Detroit. Ran with Heather and heard about her Chicago run, we did send some good vibes to Detroit but not sure if they made it in time due to headwinds. Hope to see you Detroit Marathoners next Thursday at the designated place, at 8 PM to hear your story. Congratulations to all for the determination in training and the effort. Michelle you did fantastic, I can hardly wait to hear how your race went.
Hi to all:
I want to congratulate all of you on your completion of the Detroit Marathon. You did very well even though the weather did not cooperate. Also, I want to congratulate those who were doing their first marathon. I understand that the wind was very strong; however you persisted and managed to finish. Time to take a well deserved rest. I look forward to hearing the stories this Thursday. Congratulations to those who qualified for Boston! Bring your medal on Thursday.
Best regards,
Mario
Hi everyone,
A big congratulations to everyone out on the course today. It was windy and cool but you all looked fantastic. Look forward to hearing all the stories.
Cheers!
Chris
Motor City?... It should take over for Chicago and be called the Windy City! You guys all looked powerful out there.
BTW - they do mix a good martini in Detroit!
France
I want to add my hearty congratulations to all the athletes who did Detroit! I did the Half, which I found tough going sometimes with the wind (fortunately we had sunny skies and good temperatures which helped us), but I am very impressed with those who continued on to do the Full marathon!! I heard it was especially windy on Belle Island ...to those of you who were able to persevere and finish, you are all winners!!! Special kudos to first time marathoners Audrey and Iona who did a great job at finishing with a smile on your face and got a fabulous medal for your efforts! Now on to think about the next marathon....
Hi All,
Here is my account of my less than inspiring Detroit experience.
I had a great first half. B'Ann and I stuck together and made it over the very long bridge and survived the tunnel. Parts of the course through Detroit were very windy but I was still feeling pretty good. Our split at the half was about 1:56 and apart from a few low moments, I still felt strong.
Fast track to 25K. My training for mississauga had been disrupted by stomach problems. I changed my nutrition and played around with a few combinations before finding something that worked. This time around I had no problems through training and was feeling good for the marathon. At 25K my stomach began to feel VERY acidy and I started to let out some rather huge burps (I am soooo sorry B'Ann). We crossed onto Belle Island (aka the windiest place on EARTH!!!!) and things started to go downhill fast. B'Ann and I parted at about 27-28K as she was much stronger. I continued doing 10's and 1's until 30K when I knew that something was really off. I quickly made my way to the side of the road where I discretly threw up next to a bush. I felt better for a while after that but I knew I had to continue taking fuilds and after about two water stations I knew I would have another meeting with the side of the road. Jo (the British one) caught me just before 35K. She ran up and put her arm around me which gave me a huge boost. We stayed together for about 1k until I had to throw up again (I am so sorry if reading this is making anyone sick). I did a combination of short walks and very slow short runs until I got to the last two k and ran myself in. I felt awful upon finishing and was SO happy to see the Joe, Shelby, Merv and the amazing 3:45 group waiting for me. I have to say a huge thank you to all of you for helping me get out of Ford Field and find Allan. I really think I would have been in the medical tent without you!
I will put this marathon down in the books as a character building experience. I felt low for a bit afterwards, worrying that my sickness was more to do with my body not wanting to run 42.2K rather then understanding that in all likeliness I had picked up a stomach bug from one of my little Kindergarten darlings. As Cheryl pointed out, the marathon is really about the journey getting to the start. I loved every minute running with the 3:45 girls! So what if the last 42.2K was a little rough, the previous 900K were great!!!!
Take Care,
Kathy
PS - a huge congratulations to all those who qualified or re-qualified for Boston. You are all AMAZING!!!
Hi everyone,
First off, thank you all so much for your support.
A huge thanks to Chris, Henny, and France for coming down to windy Detroit to cheer us on.
And thank you to everyone here at home cheering us on and sending us your positive energy.
The experience was awesome. It all started with a fun-filled drive down to Detroit with B'Ann, Cheryl and Jo. The time flew by, both due to the endless pee-breaks and the constant chatter going on in the car.
Words cannot express how amazing it was to be experiencing this race with so many people.
As everyone who was in Detroit yesterday knows, the winds were
absolutely brutal, much like I understand they were here...so that made for an interesting run...especially because they were coming from EVERY direction, and included gusts. I honestly believe that if you can run in that you can run in anything.
I had such a great day - I loved every minute of it, and felt so good the whole race. Because of the wind we fell behind pace by two minutes by mile 20...on the lovely Belle Isle. I was feeling strong at this point ... and then heard the words "Go" from Steph so at that point I left Cheryl and Steph and was running the last 6.2 miles solo. I was really enjoying the crowds, the runners and the whole experience. I had studied the route map so while we did not drive the route, I felt that I knew where I was going and what lied ahead of me.
I was ticking along ... using my counting method (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10) - which for me acted like a metrodome and kept my pace. At mile 22 my calves started cramping - something I had never experienced before, and let
me tell you they were none too cooperative. When the first twinge happended I said out loud, "...you have to be *&^%$#@ kidding me". I had no option but to walk when it cramped. So at that point I decided to let go of my 10 and 1s and walk any time my calves were screaming at me. This seemed to work, and between my short walks and the gatorade stops I got through the last 4.2 miles. I lost another minute with this little dance I was doing with my calves, but still felt really good and had gas left in the tank.
I had a loud-mouthed runner next to me (who was on the course running some of the relayers in) - he kept yelling at me "you can do this Mary Lynn". His pace was a sprint, so he was the perfect person to meet up with at the last 1/2 mile mark.
I went into this marathon with a huge goal of 3:45. I honestly thought it was a dream because that meant I would have to take off 23-minutes from my one and only marathon of 4:08 two years ago. I mentally prepared for weeks, but really invested in preparing my head for the last several days. I knew while a lofty goal, if my body cooperated on race day my head would get me there.
So I lost 2-minutes to the wind, and 1-minute to my calf cramps. I came in at 3:48. I am very happy with my accomplishment. While I missed Boston by 3-minutes, I had a PB and bettered my time by shaving off 20-minutes. 3:45 does not seem so far away now.
So what did I learn?
That the 3:45ers are some of the strongest people I know. They made the 4 months of training an absolutely unbelievable experience.
I learned that setting a huge goal is the best way to approach a race - the night Dave told us to commit was the night I comitted to 3:45 and from that day forward worked on mentally envisioning me accomplishing that goal.
I learned that I absolutely love the marathon, and will plan on another for the spring of 2007.
And, I learned that winds like we experienced, while at the time seem like a cruel joke, make you strong, and teach you perserverance.
I am a bit sore today - especially my left IT (which funny enough did not hurt at all during the training), but nothing that some Advil, stretching, hottub and a massage won't help. :)
Thanks again everyone! See you Thursday night!
Mary Lynn
I have been training with the 3.45 group in an attempt to finally run a marathon in under 4 hours. I have struggled through parts of the training but have emerged a stronger and faster runner and most importantly I have had an amazing time with the 3:45 girls. So as I approached Sunday I felt confident that I could run under 4 hours and to quote Dave, I planned my race and intended to race my plan.
We had a hilarious trip down to Detroit and after what seemed like an eternity being fingerprinted and having my retinas scanned I was finally allowed to enter the USA. Then it was off to the Expo for another immigration interview before I could finally collect my number.
After a fairly sleepless night ( well, I was sharing a room with B'Ann who was possibly even more nervous than me) marathon day dawned bright and more than a little breezy, in fact it was blowing a gale and it was extremely chilly. We made our way to the start and it was fantastic to meet up with Joe, Dave and Dave - we all hugged each other, wished each other luck and I promptly burst into tears because I couldn't get a signal on my Garmin!
My plan was to run at 3:55 pace so I knew I would be alone throughout the race and I was prepared for that. The initial pace was slow as there were so many people and it was a nice surprise to be able to run the first 10 and 1 with the rest of the girls. After that i consciously pulled back from them as I knew I would blow up if I tried to run with them at 3:45 pace.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first half, I had no problem keeping to pace and the winds were actually quite light as we ran through Windsor. I thought to myself " I do believe the training has worked - I'm on pace and I'll definately finish in under 4". I ran through the tunnel a little too fast and I knew it ( my underwater mile was 30 seconds too fast) but I had no signal and decided I would keep up with the 3:55 pace bunny instead. As I emerged into Detroit again i still felt strong although a little peterbed that I still didn't have a pace on my Garmin and I was missing the mile markers so was unable to use my paceband.
At about 11 miles ( 19K) my calves started to cramp and I was mightily cross - I didn't want to have crampy calves for the next 15 miles so I stopped drimnking water and switched entirely to Gatorade. I ran through the half in good time and still felt I could run in in under 4 but was angry and cursing loudly about my increasingly crampy calves. At this point I started having to pull up and walk a few steps to make the cramps subside. On one such occasion a woman ran past, bumped me and knocked me to the ground - it wasn't entirely her fault but she was mortified!
And so it continued until the Island where the gusting wind seemed to make me run backwards and totally sapped my strength - it also blew my hat off twice and I had to intentionally run backwards to fetch it! By the time i got to 20 miles i was a whole 7 minutes off pace and pretty exhausted. I decided to listen to my IPod for inspiration. Now one thing you must do is prepare a playlist for these occasions - let me tell you, Sade's " Your love is king" doesn't really provide the right vibe in a marathon! Then horrors, my ipod stopped working! My Gatorade bag in my fuel belt had burst open and the whole thing was covered in sticky yellow gunk - I spent 2 minutes at the next walk break trying to sort it out! My right brain was screaming "what the hell are you doing you're meant to be running a marathon!" my left brain was worrying about what Mark would say to me when he discovered I had gunked up my Ipod with gatorade!
Then i saw Kathy walking dejectedly along the side of the road and looking as if she was about to throw up. I ran and walked with her for a while - dicussing the architecture - there really were some lovely houses at 35K!Then I looked round and she wasn't there, apparently 5 minutes with me had actually made her vomit - poor thing!
And then it was just one foot in front of the other until the finish . My calf cramps were receding owing to gallons of gatorade and numerous gels and amazingly by the end I was able to resume my 10 and 1s! I knew I had overshot my goal so I just enjoyed the end of the race and loved the crowds on the way into the stadium. It was just a short run down the vertical overheated ramp into the stadium and a near death experience with a 10 year old boy zig zagging in front of me. I bellowed " get out of my way " at him and literally sprinted into the stadium to the sound of Chris shouting my name ( sorry Henny and France I didn't hear your delicate voices!). I finished, turned to my left, heard my name being screamed by the 3:45 girls and Joe- my face was frozen in a rictus grin - I was exhausted but elated !
What a wonderful experience - very annoying at times, but hugely satisfying and i got to share it with my friends!
What would i do differently
1) Drink gatorade all day the day before like all the other sensible people.
2) Run 1600s in speedwork instead of 800s
3) Prepare a more inspiring playlist for marathon day!
4) Not carry a bag of loose gatorade powder in the same place as my IPod!
5) never ever ever walk between walk breaks ever!
At the end of the day I ran 4:13, only 2 minutes quicker than Mississauga and 10 minutes shy of my PB but I enjoyed the whole experience so much more thanks to you guys and I'm not injured. I'll be back ( sorry Dave, Chris and Joe!)and I'll try to do it next time!
Thanks to all my pace group for putting up with me and particularly to B'Ann who really has believed that i could do this thing.
Thanks to everyone who left such nice comments - I had a great run for my first marathon and considering all the problems I had with my knees in the month leading up to it - I was sooooo very happy that I got through the whole race with no problems. Not only that - I feel pretty good today! The wind was certainly a challenge, especially on Belle Island, but I managed to make it through feeling pretty good - still smiling and able to dance to the music of the Elvis impersonator!! It was a great experience and I'll definitely be back, hopefully next time I'll finish with a much better time!!
Audrey
Congratulations everyone! Its so great to see the inspirational messages from everyone!
It was a tough day for me. I stuggled over the past month with a torn hamstring, and then substantially reduced training. Last week (as Dave had warned us), I started fighting a cold as well, and popped tons of Cold FX and Echinessia tea. At the end of the day, my cardio just wasnt where it need to be due to the lost training. If only I could have run my marathon a month earlier prior to the hamstring issue! Also, on Marathon day, my nose was so stuffed up, I was doing the runners nose drainage routine that usually grosses me out (block one nostril with one finger, blow hard out through the other one). With the wind in Detroit, I kept looking around to make sure I wouldnt hit anyone. I never thought running would make me stoop to this manoeuver!
In the end, it was a fabulous day! I would definitely recommend the Detroit marathon (minus the crazy wind) to anyone considering it. To the medal hoes out there - its a great piece of hardware!
I was feeling great during the first 17 km, and kept right on pace. It was helpful seeing Chris, Henny & France just before the half way mark. It was closely prior to seeing them that I knew I was starting to fade, but their yelling at me helped provide a boost of energy!
By the half way mark, I was 3 minutes behind my goal. And it just got worse after that. I felt great going over the first bridge, and then through the tunnel. It was the second bridge that really did me in! The wind was SSOOOO strong, you really needed to fight it to keep moving forward. It was at that point that I ran for a short distance with two other marathoners. I said to them, Remind me why we do this. The first one said, Because we can. And the second one said, Because my father struggled for 30 years with heart disease. It definitely helped put things into perspective.
So, I SUCKED IT UP, and pushed myself on. Even though my missed training due to injuries prevented me from achieving my goals that day, I had a revised plan to finish JUST BECAUSE I CAN.
Special thanks to my training buddies! Thanks for the long runs, the jokes, coffee & beer! In Daves words, I want to be that 70 year old still running marathons. Believe it or not, at the end of the day, the pain is fun. Fun because it helps to remind us of the journey it took in getting there. I will definitely be back for more in January!
See you all at the party next Friday!
Oops - that was me up above - Diane!
I felt like an old Ford Pinto pulling into town, muffler dragging behind.
I met some interesting Americans taking how it was so windy near the border. (like there's some geographical phenomenon) I said it is windy all the time like this in Canada. I had time to talk with other dejected runners walking the last 1/2.
I look forward to my next attempt at 3:30, but will be two years away, as I am training for an ironman next year. Not sure how that will go but its all for the experience and it did feel good to see another finish line.
After that day, I think I should bring a sail for the bike.
I never know what to write after my marathon. Although I am absolutely overjoyed to have completed yet another marathon. I am somehow sad that it has come to an end. I am certain that is why I commit to do it all over again.
My marathon training was great. I couldn't have asked to be with a better group of people, but unfortunatly you never know what the day itself will bring. It is after all only one 42 k run.
My day was not great. The week before was not the best. Headaches everyday, not that hungry and very nervous as I knew 3:45 was ambitious (3:50 is my number). The drive down was comedy from the word go. From the many bathroom stops and the banana smuggling incident at the border. Thanks Jo!!!! The night was sleepless. The race well it was tough. I usually have a great first half and had already had 4 very low points by the half way mark, I was only about 2.5 mins off my goal time and was still hopefull. The wind on Belle Island sucked it out of me. I felt like crap. My head hurt. My stomach hurt and I was sucking it up the best I knew how. I pulled out my MP3 player turned it on to hear "Had a bad Day" at least that made me laugh. Somehow I managed to stick to my 10 and 1's no matter how deperatly my body begged me to stop. The last 3 miles for me were the worst, but I am learning that I can run through almost anything. And again as I was about to enter For field, 3 Relay team mates of a runner jump in in front of me, side by side running slowly to run in with their team mate. Finally a very vocal woman behind me yelled at them to move. Deja vu.
I managed to finish and qualify for the 2008 Boston (thank god for being old).
Thanks to Chris, Henny and their kids and France for coming to cheer us on. I heard you and saw you at various points in the race and it really did help. Also thanks to the wonderful 3:45 girlies, you made this an experience I will never forget.
Congratulations to everyone, we are all amazing!!!!!!!!
Here's to the next one.
B'Ann
Hi Guys, On Sunday, I walked off the Detroit marathon course after 20 km - something I had never done before. After a few days of recharging the baterries and trying to figure out what happened I thought I would write a few lines.
I always had three rules on race day. 1. Don't get injured 2. Finish the race 3. Go for a time.
I think I will have to add a fourth rule (more about that later).
Some of you know I did the Ironman in July and while I had PBs in the swim and the bike, my run was more like a limping-walk (due to calf cramps because of dehydration) So so the IM was a little discouraging for me. I decided to sign up for Detroit to a) get that out of my system b) try for another shot at Boston and c) hang with my buds in our pacegroup.
Although I was in the 3:15 pace group - my goal was a 3:30 marathon. I was using the 3 times a week running, 2 times a week cross-training strategy recommended by Runners World. Therefore I could do long runs at one pace group faster.
Leading up to Detroit, I would say I was about 90% ready physically and 15% ready mentally. I've put a lot on my plate this year with work, speaking and other issues and I can't really say that I was as focused as much as I should have been.
My bod seemed OK but I noticed that about a week before the marathon, I started having sleepless nights and that hasn't happened for about 10 years. Much of the reason I teach these courses is to have as much fun as all of you and it didn't seem to be happening this time around. (I suppose I should also tell you that what happened a year ago with Chris at Scotia still affects me whenever I try to push myself too hard...or see some of you really pushing yourselves).
I could see the excitement and energy with all the group the night before the race but all I could think about was trying to focus on how I was going to do a 3:30:00. I had done a 3:37 a year at Scotia (I headed out a little too quick otherwise feel sure I would have got a 3:30)and it seemed a lot more fun back then.
Joe was a fantastic buddy. We headed out together and he mentioned this was my race and he was there to make sure we were headed to Boston together. He even joked that Barbara had given him permission to kick my ass. I must have said 4 words in the first 20 kilometers and (as you well know) that's not like me. My brain was racing a mile a minute thinking about a) work b) home c) lecture material d) Boston e) the wind f) why the hell Joe was laughing and waving to people and high-fiving dudes on the course and having fun because I should have been doing that instead of him and why the hell wasn't I having any fun like he was?????) It was likely the toughest 20 kilometers in my life. From time to time, Joe would look over and ask if I was OK and mention this was just another long run. (I would think...who the hell do he think he is saying that positive crap...Dave Howlett?) I would mumble something through my haze about how nice a day it was.
I tried everything. The power of positive thinking? Didn't work. Counting footsteps? Nope. Mantras? Lasted about 2 minutes. Then the "self-doubt" stuff started creeping in just after the tunnel. Physically I fell pretty good but my brain kept saying "why the heck are you doing this?" Then I tried to think catalogue many people I would disappont by not doing a 3:30 or even finishing the race. Yikes...not a good strategy.
So Joe and I came out of the tunnel and we headed up to the 1/2 marathon checkpoint. We were on pace (about 1 minute ahead), doing our 10 and 1's, nutriotion felt good, hydration felt adequate, a little windy, people were cheering etc etc. At about 20 km I just stopped and said to Joe, "I'm going to find Barbara, that's it for me." I'll give my buddy credit, people cheering the race must have found it odd to see one guy trying to haul another guy back on the route. But I knew as soon as I stopped that it would likely be the most disappointing day of my life.
So I've spent the last few days having a think on what happened. I haven't got any solid answers except that maybe we start to look at 42 kilometers just like a long run when in reality it is not. It's a pretty high mountain and if you are going to climb it, your head (as well as your body) has to be in the game. And if you are going to race for a time, you really have to want it as things will not get any easier as the race goes on. Everyday, we read about the value of "multi-tasking" but mental focus is extremely important on race day and that is something I have to work on.
So what is my goal from now on? I honestly don't know. I have to address key questions like a) are marathons the right distance for me? b) should I continue to try for a Boston qualifier or do I really want it that badly? c) can I juggle marathon training with other commitments or should I just coach people?
Regardless, here is my addition to "the famous three":
1. Don't get injured 2. Finish the race 3. Go for a time. 4. No matter how the day ends, appreciate your friends, they value you for a lot more than just your race time.
---------------
Nothing is the world can take the place of perisistence.
Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent.
Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb.
Education alone will note; the world is full of educated derelicts.
Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.
- Calvin Coolidge
Dave
Respect to you for adding your story - we all recognise the feelings that you describe very well. I would have happily walked off 2 of my marathons if I had been able to find my way back to my hotel.
You are so right about the value of friendship - at the end of the day nobody else really cares about your marathon performance it's your other qualities that are important.
Enjoy the break from running ( I know I am) and we will see you at the party.
Jo
Just remember #4 is true!
I know what it's like to pick yourself up when things don't turn out how we'd like.
It's because of your guidance and this clinic that I was able to turn things around for me this year.
France
Dave,
Please know how much we all admire you.
You are truly an amazing coach and friend.
You are forever inspiring and motivating us to do our very best, while reminding us to enjoy and respect the journey.
Good luck at your talk tonight!
ML.
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