Gordo Running

I started this post in April, but kept it on the back burner while working through other blogs.  I also revisited it in early June, but I had to get those middle distance rankings out before Dennis got mad at me.  This entry has evolved a bit since I started, especially after hearing Cat Zingano's interview on the Joe Rogan Experience Podcast (JRE) . I shared that classic sports movie, Rudy, with Mila a while back.  I didn't cry this time so either I've become a heartless monster or have just seen the movie 15 times now so it's tear jerking effect has lessened.  Your call. While I thoroughly enjoy the movie, it got me thinking.  My running miles have been down lately as I've been busier at work and lifting and cycling a bit more (upping my "new PRs" in deadlift, bench, and squat at least).  I also skipped the Run In The Sun as it was 105 degrees out and we got invited to a dinner party. So, I figured I could resurrect this post that I had started in Ap...

You know, I have seen a lot of posts and heard a lot of comments about how awful 2017 was.  Is it simply hyperbole or recency?  Am I bad for not totally agreeing?  Sure there were bad moments, but I'm not about to post some meme that "2017 broke me."  Anyway, in running it was a year that came in like a lion and went out like a lamb.  I ran the Houston Marathon on the second weekend of January but only ran five miles over the last two weeks of the year.  I set some PRs, travelled around Texas to run, and made some memories.  As we start 2018, I wanted to take some time to look back at my 2017 "year in running/blogging." January 90 miles races: Hot Chocolate 5k Houston Marathon (4:03:44 PR) most viewed blog: Shannon Trail Series Race #2   160 views running pic of the month: Mike cheering on runners at the Shannon Trail Series Race #2 Running Highlight: finishing Houston not only with a PR but the support of my TNT Runners homie...

The crazies here in San Angelo talk of running their age in miles on their birthday.  I.... didn't do that this year.  You can tell I'm getting ready for a looooong race by the fact that 17 miles is considered tapering.  I made the mistake of destroying myself in the gym Friday afternoon, so I figured that a 17 mile run would be rough. I was right. Unfortunately, no one showed up.  But, I guess that's fitting.  Most of my long training runs here have been solo.  I have no Ryan Byron anymore.  It's all good, I still had a run to get in.  Thursday, I scouted out part of my planned route and found out that it was NOT a good idea.  There were a number of unchained, unfenced dogs that did not abide by me running on THEIR stretch of road.  I ended up having to dodge traffic and run on the grassy section in the center of the road.  If they really wanted to bite me, they'd have to work for it.  Since it was my birthday, I decided to...

Go buy stock in Vaseline and ice.  In fact, I think that huge Delaware-sized iceberg broke off because even it knew - training has begun.  Ever since the Houston Marathon (disappointed write up here ) and my PT test (hectic write up here ), I have been running solely for fun.  I have done a few races here and there and lead a PT session or two per week, but there has been no set goal race to train for.  I even entertained the idea of completely stopping working out and also eating terribly just to see how long it would take me to get to 200 pounds.  (You know it'd be funny.)  That all stops tomorrow.  Tomorrow I start my training calendar for the Wild Hare 50 Mile race  on November 18th.  I plan on keeping my blog updated with my training for two reasons - to hold me accountable and to encourage any other local runners looking for someone to train with.  If I post it on here AND my Facebook group, then I have to do it, right?  Pleas...

Since Houston, I've cut down on the miles (on pace for 15 this week!) and that means more non-running time.  You know, time to think about running instead of studying more for my statistics class.  And, yes, more time for FIFA 16.  Gotta get the AFC Wimbly Womblys to be legit EPL contenders! Anyway, what I've been thinking about lately is races that I'd like to run.  Of course there will always be local races that I'll jump in and the races that my friends convince me are a good idea.  "Hey let's go run up and down bridges in South Texas where there's nothing but blistering heat and 194% humidity!" However, I've been thinking of those bucket list/dream races.  I'm going to throw some of mine on here, but please share yours too.  Maybe I'll have to add to my list. Boston Marathon Qualifying time for my age group: 3:05 Age I'd have to be for my current PR to get me in: 65 Other ways to get in? Yes, raising $5,000+ for selected char...