tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55877532320606181842023-11-16T07:03:16.010-08:00Marathon Mitch"Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go" - T.J. EliotMarathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-49328941331335989132012-01-19T13:34:00.000-08:002012-01-19T13:34:28.581-08:00Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon 2012 Recap<div style="text-align: justify;">Wow, I dont remember when was the last time I blogged about my race, been jumped off the blogging wagon for awhile and now I think I need to get back on it since the new year had just started. So for this year's resolution, I want to start doing my recap of my races again!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHWuk66lOaKLYRsCY_Rc5VqPG9woC37GiFyCg-QMKWUCGso1z-32-AdKRL1gYHK5vjb0cwTKJ-2drJF-hZWntzgLkOt-mCntX8j7qSHl4xpKimZ_JnlE0Zs9CHb1TaHldHprX-ZgbBcSk/s1600/IMG_2865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHWuk66lOaKLYRsCY_Rc5VqPG9woC37GiFyCg-QMKWUCGso1z-32-AdKRL1gYHK5vjb0cwTKJ-2drJF-hZWntzgLkOt-mCntX8j7qSHl4xpKimZ_JnlE0Zs9CHb1TaHldHprX-ZgbBcSk/s320/IMG_2865.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ok so this was my 1st marathon of 2012 and 94th marathon overall!!! I have planned to make my 100th Marathon at Pasadena Marathon on May 20th. Although I would love to make LA Marathon in March as my 100th since that's where I started back in 2001, but because of my busy running schedule, I cant squeeze another marathon before March to make it happen. So LA Marathon would be my 99th Marathon and Pasaden will be my 100th!!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So I have ran Rock n Roll Arizona ever since their inagural year back in 2004, but I only did their Half that year, then starting 2005 I ran the full from then on. So this year made me my 9th year going back to Arizona.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><b>Saturday - 1-14-12</b></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> After only slept for 3 hours after I got off work at 10pm Friday night, I went to pick my friend up at 3am so we could start driving to Phoenix, yes you read that right, I started driving to Phoenix at 3AM IN THE MORNING!!!! I really wanted to get there early so we could enjoy the sunny Arizona weather.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So after about 5 hrs driving we arrived in Phoenix, then we wanted to hit up this local restaurant called <a href="http://losreyesdelatortaaz.com/" target="_blank">Los Reyes de la Torta</a>, which was featured on the show Man vs Food!! They have some crazy mexican sandwiches with all kinds of ingredients in there, I ordered the regualr Del la Reyes Torta, but it was a bit too dry for my taste, but overall it was a great experience.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicVYziT2_AJ7Br7irhbp9vvHBHvoRAwKWDBjUdHYIYOevOeroR3gf_TMoDuNkbIwk-f405j2cOhq5o8zE1WYioP2f24pIWlJte4nFILRvP8qGoOXeTaSzXWNLy0xeKKJCvWpkZ0gvoRLw/s1600/IMG_2853.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicVYziT2_AJ7Br7irhbp9vvHBHvoRAwKWDBjUdHYIYOevOeroR3gf_TMoDuNkbIwk-f405j2cOhq5o8zE1WYioP2f24pIWlJte4nFILRvP8qGoOXeTaSzXWNLy0xeKKJCvWpkZ0gvoRLw/s320/IMG_2853.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj0PxoQdgMQQdv2-etdrQr3sWd83rIEo1xxeivPureaZqMOP4ZSssQBnCxj2WIrb6rBol8Ga59hkzFDZsZ7edPg3wj_LIbPPDr20TGof4QBIMkJle98rZpen4LcOt3WARIdgoKNjEYsec/s1600/IMG_2855.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj0PxoQdgMQQdv2-etdrQr3sWd83rIEo1xxeivPureaZqMOP4ZSssQBnCxj2WIrb6rBol8Ga59hkzFDZsZ7edPg3wj_LIbPPDr20TGof4QBIMkJle98rZpen4LcOt3WARIdgoKNjEYsec/s320/IMG_2855.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> My De la Reyes Torta, plus a non alcoholic pina colada.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We then checked in to our hotel and rested for a little while before we headed to a nearby light rail train station to take the train to the Expo in downtown Phoenix. This was my FIRST time taking the light rail even though I have been to Phoenix for the past 8 years. But I decided that I didnt want to deal with the downtown traffic because there were other events going on the same weekend, so the traffic would be crazy down there. Taking the light rail would be the best choice to get to downtown.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><u>Expo</u></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Since this year is the Year of the Dragon, and RNRAZ is sponsored by PF Changs Restaurant, so at the entrance to the expo they were decorated with many Dragon theme signs. Since I was bored in the year of dragon back in 1976, I think this will be my lucky year. =-)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The expo was nothing unusual, we picked up our bibs, got our shirts, which was poorly designed, got our "goodies" bag, walked around a few aisles and grabbed some free samples, bumped into a few friends and chatted for awhile and we were done in less than an hour. Then we walked to the famous Alice Cooperstown restaurant <a href="http://www.alicecooperstown.com/" target="_blank">Alice Cooperstown Restaurant</a> a few block away from the expo to have lunch with 2 other friends. This place was PACKED!! Since this place was also featured on the show Man vs Food, I HAD to check it out!! One of their famous item was "The Big Unit", a 22 inch hot dog, my friend and I shared that gaint hot dog, it was pretty delicious, the baguette roll was toasted and the 22 inch vienna sausage was cooked properly, I really enjoyed it. I would say that would be carbo load meal right there, along with 2 beers, I normal dont eat or drink that much the day before the race, but I figured I should break some rules, I pretty much didnt eat anything afterward, and it was only 3pm, I was THAT full.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmfOvvUUOGOfSM0tCwhMLZo7DwGp_AF0UItsUSnAwcujU2fWfKBTZR90lCemWeuhz5K2-twhzMg6hWMaQsruDqomjDWX6yx9iL6oqXtlbirYkNT6_gIg_G_KbHZOqdV63Hck6sRuujhcg/s1600/IMG_2863.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmfOvvUUOGOfSM0tCwhMLZo7DwGp_AF0UItsUSnAwcujU2fWfKBTZR90lCemWeuhz5K2-twhzMg6hWMaQsruDqomjDWX6yx9iL6oqXtlbirYkNT6_gIg_G_KbHZOqdV63Hck6sRuujhcg/s320/IMG_2863.JPG" width="238" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> The Big Unit!!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So after the lunch, we took the light rail back to our hotel and get rested for the race in the morning.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><b>Race Day - 1-15-12</b></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We woke up at 4am and left our room by 5am to drive over to Tempe by ASU to take the light rail to the start. This year they decided to drop the shuttle buses and suggested us to take the free light rail to the start instead. Which make us have to walk a LOT further after we finish to get back to our cars!! For the previous years we parked across the street from the Finish Line and just took the shuttle to the start so we didnt had to walk too far after we finish to our cars. So after we parked at the parking lot inside ASU, we made our short walk to the light rail station and hopped on the train. They have trains running every 10 mins or so from 5am to 7am. Inside the train was pretty packed, we werent lucky enough to get a seat so we all had to stand for the half an hour train ride to the start. The train didnt really go straight from ASU to Downtown Phoenix, it had to make all the stops between those 2 stations so it was a bit uncomfortable long train ride.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After we got off the train, we made our way to meet up with other Maniacs for the group pic at 6:45am, it was pretty chilly in the morning, like around the 50s. I had my Wheaties Fuel jacket on to keep me warm. By 7am we head to the UPS trucks to drop our bags and headed to our corrals and get ready for the 7:30am start.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">While I was on my way to my corral, I tried to turned on my Garmin, but it wont turn on!! Even though I charged it the night before, I tried to reset it a few times but it still didnt do anything!! I was so frustrated and thought my race would be ruined!!! So my other option was to use my regular Timex watch, which is not GPS enabled, so I would have to hit the Split button everytime I passed by a Mile marker to track my pace for each mile. I would have to run base on how I feel instead of how fast my Garmin tells me.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The race start was delayed by 15 mins because of some issue with the train I think. The first mile I was running a 8/mins pace, I knew I went a little too fast, so I made an emergency stop at the porta potty, I wanted to go before the race but I didnt want to wait in line, so I was glad that I went after the first mile. The first 5 miles were running on 7th Ave, it was a long stretch but they did have a lot of spectators on the sidewalk to cheer us on, so there wasnt a boring spot on that course. I was maintain my comfortable pace around 8:30min/mile, I tried to run my own pace and didnt want to follow any pace group. I finished the first 7 miles in under an hour, the weather was just PERFECT, cloudy sky the entire time, didnt see a sun at all!! Definately a perfect day for a PR, but my main goal was to finish under 4 hours since last year I finished in 4:05. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I didnt try to take a lot of pictures during the race this time because I wanted to concentrate on my race. I was still running pretty good even though without my Garmin, I was able to keep up with my pace for longer than I exected, after 13 miles, I finished in 1:51, then I knew I might have a chance to finish under 4 hours if I could maintain my pace for 13 more miles. For the next 3 miles, I saw runners on the right side of the road running by after their made their turnaround at around Mile 16. After Mile 14, I finished in under 2 hours, and I noticed the 3:45 pace group was behind me, I tried not to follow them because if I do, I will end up running too fast and not have energy left for the rest of the race, so I just stayed with my own pace and be patience since I have ran the last 13 miles without a pace group, I knew I could do it again for the 2nd half of the race.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So after the turnaround at Mile 16, I could see all the runners who were behind me on the other side of the road, I always look for my friends and give them high five if possible whenever there was a turnaround. There werent a lot of spectators during this 6 miles out and back course, so it was kind of quiet the whole time, but watching the runners running by on the other side kept my mind off the race for a little while.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So after 20 Miles, I finished around 2:52, and with around 10K to go, I have a little over an hour to finish under 4 hours, that means I could run a 10min a mile for the next 6 miles and still make it under 4 hours. I wasnt gonna go for a PR, which was 3:50.55 because I didnt want to put a lot of pressure on myself, I just wanted to finish under 4 hours. So I just wanted to take it one mile at a time and make sure I hit my Split button whenever I passed by a mile marker. The weather was still perfect at this time, still no sign of the sun behind the clouds. I was still maintaining around 8:30 pace after 23 miles, which I was kind of surprise. Probably because I was doing some hill repeats training 2 weeks before, which helped my endurance level. After Mile 23, I finished at 3:18, I told myself I have 40 mins to finish the last 3 miles, if I run 10min/mile I could still finish under 4 hours. I tried not to think too much and just let my running do the talking. After I got my last few cups of water/gatorade at the last aid station at Mile 24, I finished at around 3:27, I told myself again that I have half an hour to finish the last 2 miles, I could run 10min/mile for the next 2 miles and still finish under 4 hours. We were running on Mills Ave on the bridge right above the Tempe Lake, which was a nice additional on the course since the Full marathon course from the previous year never got the chance to run on this bridge, only the half marathoners were lucky to run it during their course. So I was able to see the Half marathoners on the other side of the bridge finishing their race with only 1 mile left to go. After Mile 25, I finished around 3:36, again I didnt want to think about breaking 3:50, although I might have a chance, but I didnt want to mess up my pace, I just wanted to maintain my pace and not try to speed up. So after I make a left turn with less than a mile to go, I saw a lot of spectators were on the side cheering for us runners, both full and half marathoners, the course was well divided for the full and half runners, unlike RNR Vegas!! The full runners were running on the left side on the road and the halfs were running on the other side, even though it's less than a mile to go, I felt like the finish line was MILES away!! I kept my head down and just kept running my pace, then when I finally see the finish line after I made the right turn into ASU, I told myself to NOT sprint to the finish since I was afraid I would pull a muscle or something, so I just ran with my hands raise up and crossed the finish line at <b>3:47.02!!!! A NEW PR!!!!!</b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIwd7lxOiEcTvI3mhoX985v6uzxo0_9BkY46SffIRaebkWWVjXmeChRNyhh_TMrqqArdaWAA9uRjA9P96jbpBN3eEPw-nh1T-f6uMveOWJUbm4EyHHEWX_31WdvyEziLVV_FViOfTcLqs/s1600/IMG_2877.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmvfiHuztfT8iI4nSOtTVxA_Eo53NIbzeB-w5tS7PLE70XYQG85EpTaCPMWe3LIzv_oXLd8x7HfUrMbimbuehDkU5sNRzPd-E4e7xicEedO7hFYo_9iB4IRGVWA8kYiOYVtO5vdU79uCk/s1600/IMG_2870.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmvfiHuztfT8iI4nSOtTVxA_Eo53NIbzeB-w5tS7PLE70XYQG85EpTaCPMWe3LIzv_oXLd8x7HfUrMbimbuehDkU5sNRzPd-E4e7xicEedO7hFYo_9iB4IRGVWA8kYiOYVtO5vdU79uCk/s320/IMG_2870.JPG" width="239" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIwd7lxOiEcTvI3mhoX985v6uzxo0_9BkY46SffIRaebkWWVjXmeChRNyhh_TMrqqArdaWAA9uRjA9P96jbpBN3eEPw-nh1T-f6uMveOWJUbm4EyHHEWX_31WdvyEziLVV_FViOfTcLqs/s1600/IMG_2877.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIwd7lxOiEcTvI3mhoX985v6uzxo0_9BkY46SffIRaebkWWVjXmeChRNyhh_TMrqqArdaWAA9uRjA9P96jbpBN3eEPw-nh1T-f6uMveOWJUbm4EyHHEWX_31WdvyEziLVV_FViOfTcLqs/s320/IMG_2877.JPG" width="238" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b>My extra Desert Double Down Medal for completing both RNRLV and RNRAZ<b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here are my splits:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>1</b>-8:06, <b>2</b>-9:42, <b>3</b>-8:20,<b>4</b>-8:52, <b>5</b>-7:55,<b> 6</b>-8:24, <b>7</b>-8:27, <b>8</b>-8:29, <b>9</b>-8:33, <b>10</b>-8:36, <b>11</b>-8:37, <b>12</b>-8:38, <b>13</b>-8:21, <b>14</b>-8:38, <b>15</b>-8:41, <b>16</b>-8:37, <b>17</b>-8:40, <b>18</b>-9:01, <b>19-</b>9:24, <b>20</b>-8:28, <b>21</b>-8:29, <b>22</b>-8:46, <b>23</b>-9:04, <b>24</b>-8:48, <b>25</b>-8:47, <b>26</b>-8:37. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have learned a good lesson after this race that I could actually run faster without the help of my Garmin!! So from now on I should run without my Garmin and just run my pace. So overall I really like this revamped fast course, will definately be back next year!! I have improved my RNRAZ time every year since I start running it in 2005.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">2005 - 5:05.08<br />
2006 - 4:43.57<br />
2007 - 4:39.58<br />
2008 - 4:17.55<br />
2009 - 4:13.10<br />
2010 - 4:27.12 (was bothered by my achilles tendon on my left foot, took it slow)<br />
2011 - 4:05.41<br />
2012 - <b>3:47.02!!</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2X9QbK24tmKKjsClCZWNGKjvNTI9AFwVGae7w0CTlchj2_SA5CIHqwQtQGfL93FtLo5ZrAcWe8AdPGW68powEARylh8uxDNn8suijw9SjjMR_W-7-l9rn2A75nuercHFTOoj9M5QD2Ns/s1600/IMG_2882.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2X9QbK24tmKKjsClCZWNGKjvNTI9AFwVGae7w0CTlchj2_SA5CIHqwQtQGfL93FtLo5ZrAcWe8AdPGW68powEARylh8uxDNn8suijw9SjjMR_W-7-l9rn2A75nuercHFTOoj9M5QD2Ns/s320/IMG_2882.PNG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div style="color: black; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: red;"><i>Next Race..............</i><span style="color: black;">ING Miami Marathon,</span> <span style="color: black;">1-29-12, My 100th Marathon/Ultra Marathon</span></span></b><span style="color: black;">!!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-38465321223606958312011-09-06T11:37:00.000-07:002011-09-06T11:41:26.829-07:00Disneyland Half Marathon RecapThis was only my <b>2nd</b> Half Marathon this year and <b>19th</b> Half Marathon overall.<br />
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I know I have been missing a few race reports for the past few races, I have been slacking off lately, so in order for me to catch up, I need to get back on it by doing this report first, then I will slowly but surely catching up on my reports.<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">So this was actually my first time signing up for ANY Disney's races, I have ran the Disneyland Half Marathon 2 years ago but I was just running for my friend was injured at that time so she couldnt run it. The reason that I never signed up for their races was they are just too expensive for just a half, but after I saw their medal of last year's, which was their 5th Anniversary, I figured I just wanted to sign up at least for once. So I did, and I am I did.</div><br />
<b>The Expo</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I went to the Expo on Friday since I had to work late on Sat and didnt think I could make it. I got to the Disneyland Hotel like around 11:30am, expo opens at noon, there were a lot of people waiting in line already. There were 2 sections of the expo, one was underneath the hotel where we pick up our bib, print out our waiver and stuff, then we had to go back to the main floor for the actual expo where we pick up our goodies bag and shirt and visit all the vendors.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The Marathon Show Joe Taricani and me at the expo</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzO_rdUVO29VirleXfk_Xl9eDL_xUfVdaZXHmGPMZ63d6aBP9wQKMem8PuXsEquFPF8EWzTKP1pZeonlMBKaUTvHsyolN_9vMJ2es7UEVtqCiAcG39P1EXHBB8te6cFUQv3mYR4De-08E/s1600/340911_10150418109363508_747613507_10521294_6727532_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzO_rdUVO29VirleXfk_Xl9eDL_xUfVdaZXHmGPMZ63d6aBP9wQKMem8PuXsEquFPF8EWzTKP1pZeonlMBKaUTvHsyolN_9vMJ2es7UEVtqCiAcG39P1EXHBB8te6cFUQv3mYR4De-08E/s400/340911_10150418109363508_747613507_10521294_6727532_o.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">After I picked up my goodies bag, I walked around the expo to see if I could get some freebies, which I got a few!!! I got a water bottle from Geico's booth, got an Angels' hat from the Anaheim Angels booth, I also got a tote bag, notebook, t-shirt, a discoball keychain, etc.. I caught up with Joe Taricani from <a href="http://www.themarathonshow.com/">The Marathon Show</a> www.themarathonshow.com who was doing the interview at the expo and also at the race!! Always fun to see him doing interviews. So after about an hour and a half, I left the expo and heading back home so I could get ready for work.</div><br />
<b>Pre Race Carbo Load</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Since it was only a Half Marathon, I decided to just to cook myself a box of Mac n Cheese while watching the IAAF World Championship Marathon in Korea on TV. I hate to feel too full on race day, so just a regular size box of Kraft's Mac n Cheese would do it for me.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My carbo load meal.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCkkF5N7c8SfLBWiPLiegfJn5RmerOD3ERrrItEvBYGDwu9WqEMwjlUWKUQ1P0zN_0CVj_hlEvJTvwx5V0cuv36w_KhbycPxGUiuTuZ5YVnF5TddH8zAHpR-K0-6Jriye78ng6khFZcYY/s1600/339677_1983230262551_1297055692_31856774_5249882_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCkkF5N7c8SfLBWiPLiegfJn5RmerOD3ERrrItEvBYGDwu9WqEMwjlUWKUQ1P0zN_0CVj_hlEvJTvwx5V0cuv36w_KhbycPxGUiuTuZ5YVnF5TddH8zAHpR-K0-6Jriye78ng6khFZcYY/s320/339677_1983230262551_1297055692_31856774_5249882_o.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><b>Race Day</b><br />
<br />
I woke up at 3am, wore my brand new pair of Nike, which I bought a few months ago at the Outlet by Las Vegas, they are very comfortable to wear right out of the box, then left my house around 3:30am, drove up to Anaheim in half an hour without taking the freeway since I live on the same street as the Disneyland, just a few cities away. Once I got to Anaheim, I stopped by 7-Eleven to get some coffee, Gatorade and 2 donuts, which tasted nasty!!! I only took a bite each and threw them away!!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I tried to drive around the area to see if I could find a street parking so I wont have to pay for parking, but no luck, so I decided to just give in and park at their designated parking structure, where I had to pay $15!! Disneyland sure doesnt make my wallet happy. At around 4:45am, I started to gather all my stuff and headed to the start area, I was suppose to meet up with my Maniacs/Fanatics friends not too far from the start, but there were just too many runners that I couldnt make my way there, so I had to skip. I then walked my way to the gear check area to check my bag, which was my goodies bag's bag, this huge see thru plastic bag kind of reminded me of NYC Marathon which they can see the contents of your bags, just for security & safety reasons.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">After I gathered all the stuff that I needed, I walked my way toward the starting corral. The starting area was very well organized, volunteers were doing a great job telling us where to go to our designated corrals. Once I was inside the Corral A, I heard someone called my name, and it was my fellow Maniac Emil, he was sitting by the curb getting some last min rest, he has been running the Disneyland Half Marathon every year since their first race 6 years ago, he also ran the Disney World Marathon so he was on his way to get the Coast to Coast medal just to complete both races. We chatted for awhile before we headed toward the front closer to the start.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Moment before the start, the annoucer was introducing the runner, whose name is Whitney Henderson, who had run all the way from FL to CA to raise money for Souls4Soles Charity. She started the journey back in June, ran thru 6 pairs of shoes and said she will end her journey in Manhattan Beach on Labor Day. What a incredible runner!!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So after the national anthem was sang by an Army soldier, a few fireworks were fired up above the sky, and then we were off we go!!! My goal was to get between 1:50-1:55, I even printed out my split time wristband on my right wrist but I never looked at it since it was hidden underneath my arm warmer, which wasnt necessary since the weather wasnt really cold at all!! I should have left them in my bag, I was warmed up the momemt I started to run. It was around 65 degree, kind of humid early at 6am in the morning, the sky was still dark early on. I was trying to run the left side of the road so I could run my own pace and worry about other runners. There were already a lot of spectators on the street cheering once we got on the main road within a mile. Then we ran the next 3 miles inside the Disneyland which was really cool since the park was closed early on, we even ran thru some backlots area where only the employees are allow to go during park hours.I saw a lot of Disney's characters cheering for us runner, I tried to not to stop and take pictures with them cuz I wanted to try to run a fast half marathon and get under 1:50. I was running around 8min pace so I was really running faster than I should. I was even passed by the 1:40 pace group, I knew that wasnt my goal so I didnt bother to follow them.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Then after Mile 4, we started to run outside the park on the main road, there was this little uphill to cross right over the freeway, I tried to maintain my speed and pace myself on the over hill. I saw this guy running with the back of his shirt stated that he is single and actually put his phone numbers on it!! that was really clever!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Around Mile 5, there were a bunch of marching bands from a local school playing on the right side of the road to entertain us, then around Mile 6, there were a group of Hispanic Heritage performers with full on costumes performing on the left side of the road this time to cheer us on. Then around Mile 7, another group of performers, this time they were Hawaiians performing some Hawaiians dance and musics, it was awesome that we get to see different ethnic groups out there on the course.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Now around Mile 8, we started to enter the Honda Cener parking lot where they have TONS of people cheering us!! even more cheerleaders from local high school!! Then we made a right turn on the Santa Ana Rive Trail about Mile 9 and ran for about a quarter of a mile on the dirt, the sun was already up at that point so I was a little bit heat up, I stopped to walk a little bit just to take a break. Their aid stations were incredible, they were fully stocked with water and blue Powerade, the volunteers were awesome as well. I had to take 2 cups of water/powerade everytime cuz it was pretty warm.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Now the best moment finally comes, running inside the Angels Stadium, just before we ran inside, the great volunteer held a sign that said "SLOW" since there was a downhill leading toward the the Stadium. Once we were inside, there were even MORE spectators waiting for us to run thru, even some were from boys and girls scouts, I even saw the Angels' cheerleaders, aka The Strike Force. There was also a jumbotron showing the runners running by. Then after we exited the stadium, there was another orchestra band playing outside to pump us up!! Sometimes I really think these bands are WAY better than those rock bands at those Rock n Roll's events. I stopped by the aid station a little bit to rehydrated and continued my run, with only 3 miles to go, I had to stay focus and finish strong.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Getting ready to enter the stadium</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1A_rybWVWsbV5pY25CdbymQkrAiXelVXn-IJYzDpjz1ILhsADYfSRQmvC-s4Z7yvcnGb0AHhk3vTeTd7htweYolIWvtCSs9pSnBvjUQkAGXRe8Pe7Mr5SiGN2xaQVQa3QwDgISR1xhJg/s1600/IMG_1525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1A_rybWVWsbV5pY25CdbymQkrAiXelVXn-IJYzDpjz1ILhsADYfSRQmvC-s4Z7yvcnGb0AHhk3vTeTd7htweYolIWvtCSs9pSnBvjUQkAGXRe8Pe7Mr5SiGN2xaQVQa3QwDgISR1xhJg/s400/IMG_1525.JPG" width="298" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is a video of me running thru the Stadium, it's a bit shaky though.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzmLyI5JgMuKKveqBlPnP3qYnD4A9-ztyc4G0yBa1f4fTCxpZuxh6f1SN61dDKO4NWAVobwT57q15tRGr1qoA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Angels cheerleaders, aka The Strike Force</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcmcLJwUsymB2DifV6ekN3oLdFStvpqgJWIfvyrmLV26GCw-cf62CBKj5d3OvLngPVXMjgjAMTxKx46LigCzRLiv-89-4iFAietjDJySDbgVws_JoZr_RLryVEpgZrIWy6R0ZMJi_9IJM/s1600/IMG_1527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcmcLJwUsymB2DifV6ekN3oLdFStvpqgJWIfvyrmLV26GCw-cf62CBKj5d3OvLngPVXMjgjAMTxKx46LigCzRLiv-89-4iFAietjDJySDbgVws_JoZr_RLryVEpgZrIWy6R0ZMJi_9IJM/s400/IMG_1527.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I told myself that I had to maintain a 9 min pace for the next 3 miles in order for me to get under 1:50, so I just stayed focus and tried not to stop and get thru the last 3 miles. I tried to count my steps to 100 and if I feel good after 100 steps, I will start over from 1, this helps me to maintain my pace when I am tired.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After Mile 12, I knew I could get under 1:50 even if I walk the final mile, so as we ran thru the back of the California Adventures, more spectators and cheerleaders were cheering continously, I was giving high five as I ran thru, then after I passed the Mile 13 marker, I saw there were a few photographers on the side, kind of surprised me that they have that many photographers on the course!! I raised my arms as I always do when I see them so I would look good in the pic, then once I see the Finish Line infront of me, I did a nice sprint to the finish and finished at <b>1:47.38!!!</b> A New Disneyland PR!!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Met up with my running friends at the finish.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqdDnfEuRq8UhyphenhyphenDSzt5t1ZcpPD-4Jny-klrnHPwuY8uC07tScjViGCszS95o-UPZiXNG_3TwBbOYMkS3LqplZwP-UeJ7Gjs86LDMGlNSMdI3siL1p_CM1rIPBKBmTS4FOHGMS1626z0-U/s1600/IMG_1544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqdDnfEuRq8UhyphenhyphenDSzt5t1ZcpPD-4Jny-klrnHPwuY8uC07tScjViGCszS95o-UPZiXNG_3TwBbOYMkS3LqplZwP-UeJ7Gjs86LDMGlNSMdI3siL1p_CM1rIPBKBmTS4FOHGMS1626z0-U/s400/IMG_1544.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here are my splits: I ran a negative split the last 5miles!!! I am still shocked!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Mile 1 </b>- 8:02</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mile 2<b> </b>-<b> 7:54</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Mile 3 </b>- 7:58</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mile 4 - <b>7:51</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Mile 5</b> - 7:59</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mile 6 - <b>8:07</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Mile 7 </b>- 8:10</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mile 8 - <b>9:01</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Mile 9</b> - 8:56</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mile 10- <b>8:24 </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Mile 11</b>-8:11 </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mile 12-<b>8:07 </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Mile 13</b>-8:05 </div><div style="text-align: justify;">.1 mile -<b> 57 secs</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Overall, I really enjoyed this Disneyland Half Marathon, although they are a little pricey, but it was all worth it at the end, a very well organized race with great volunteers, great aid stations, great course entertainments, great crowds!!! I would love to do it again next year!!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtKc52is9VlaVusWiQQFgd8jUPu1qodmQiVoHltiXiq1d_0HhuoHxCEW8ExgjUIGMsI8XYL3vzHU_GffYNB4W204yL-VdrHvLieGcMxb9wpBgXrvtBRBA5bfPaHumJDQDP9AI1dorBxU/s1600/314615_1988088263998_1297055692_31863714_1184127_n+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtKc52is9VlaVusWiQQFgd8jUPu1qodmQiVoHltiXiq1d_0HhuoHxCEW8ExgjUIGMsI8XYL3vzHU_GffYNB4W204yL-VdrHvLieGcMxb9wpBgXrvtBRBA5bfPaHumJDQDP9AI1dorBxU/s400/314615_1988088263998_1297055692_31863714_1184127_n+%25281%2529.jpg" width="268" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmiQtu2DkofniT356htDy2dSlnv56cbv5WCBvQY2_mfi447nJhwizMJS-Ypc5pglcUT_a50L0-5AH0y_gqMwVXvPjuKrWYwKufZ6XIP7ezxMffNQf9jEt5z8QzD8wSQeEX8mKQiocUPg8/s1600/IMG_1557.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmiQtu2DkofniT356htDy2dSlnv56cbv5WCBvQY2_mfi447nJhwizMJS-Ypc5pglcUT_a50L0-5AH0y_gqMwVXvPjuKrWYwKufZ6XIP7ezxMffNQf9jEt5z8QzD8wSQeEX8mKQiocUPg8/s400/IMG_1557.PNG" width="266" /></a></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-18402966801733432242011-08-26T09:35:00.000-07:002011-08-26T09:35:52.997-07:00Palos Verdes Maraton RecapThis was my <b style="color: red;">9th</b> marathon this year and <b style="color: red;">82nd</b> marathon overall. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0TMzCXTRkW8Vbn41u3WFVm437RUAjVpBgFGZnB1sNFgCYiAJALx9hgnzTSXoAPnlWsgUOe_3WZigBL59BY91m6NvM1tnGgp2gqSRQgCoDTdqF4dEz094kmetoDV-G-pACRjeeR9AuAk/s1600/IMG_8521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0TMzCXTRkW8Vbn41u3WFVm437RUAjVpBgFGZnB1sNFgCYiAJALx9hgnzTSXoAPnlWsgUOe_3WZigBL59BY91m6NvM1tnGgp2gqSRQgCoDTdqF4dEz094kmetoDV-G-pACRjeeR9AuAk/s400/IMG_8521.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">This race was on May 14th and it's overdue for the race report, I have been slacking off writing my race reports, but I am trying to get back on it, in a hurry!!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have ran this event for the past 4 or 5 yrs, since it's the 2nd oldest marathon in the US just behind <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1314371820_0" style="border-bottom: 2px dotted rgb(54, 99, 136); cursor: pointer;">Boston Marathon</span>. It's a small marathon unlike <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1314371820_1" style="border-bottom: 2px dotted rgb(54, 99, 136); cursor: pointer;">Boston</span>, plus with a lot of rolling hills, definately not a first timer friendly marathon. But I enjoyed the beautiful oceanview along the course, that's why I go back every year. Plus I have ran my first sub 4 at this tough course, so that makes this race kind of special to me. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">But this year they have made some major changes to this race, before it was a simple out and back course, but this year it was out and back AND out and back, which means you go out 11 miles out and back, pass the finish line, then another 1.5 miles out and back, then run the same course for the 2nd time, so you get pass by the finish 2 times before you actually finish. They did this changes just to minimize the closure on the main road because of budget cuz I guess. So this year we ran thru alot of residential streets with beautiful houses near Rancho Palos Verdes with ocean cliff view.</div><br />
<u><b>Race Day</b></u><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I met up with my friend early morning so we could carpool together, we drove to the designated parking structure at local mall so we could take the shuttle to the start. It was really cold in the morning around 5am so we just hung out at Starbuck to keep ourselves warm. There was a little drizzy but not too much. We hopped on the bus and got ready to head to the start. The previous years they didnt require shuttle service since the race was start and finish at the same location so everyone would just park at the parking lot near the finish.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">So after we finally arrived at the start after a couple of turn arounds since our driver got lost, or didnt know where to make a turnaround so we passed the start area twice. We then headed to pick up our bib and timing chips, the t-shirt will be picked up when we finished. One of my friends was gonna run this race but she couldnt make it so I used her timing chip and ran for her, which mean I have 2 chips on my shoes. =-)</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">The race, both the marathon and half marathon, started at 7:30am, it was nice and cool weather thru out the day, even a little misty drizzy when I come back around Mile 11, perfect condition for a marathon. When I passed the finish line for the first time around Mile 11, I had to run a dreadful and boring 1.5 miles out and back to the finish AND do the same loop all over again. It was a small marathon with only around 220 runners doing the mararthon distance, around 1000 doing the half marathon distance, so the course was pretty wide open. At one point during my 2nd loop, I found myself alone running by myself with no one in sight, infront of me or behind me. There were little spectators on the course so it's unlike other huge marathon events where they have spectators every street corners. But the volunteers were awesome, even there were little kids came out and volunteers, something that you dont see that often in a race.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I finished the race at 4:31.13, then I went to pick up my t-shirt and was looking around to see if they have any food like the previous years which they had banana, orange, watermelon, begal, etc.. But this year they have NOTHING but water, so I was really disappointed that they couldnt continue to provide enough food for the race. Plus, they seems to raised the price of the entry fee a bit this year, and with no post race food, it's gonna be hard for me to run this race again next year. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir6Gr1yZPqcYduN5cRC62VGyVJPCZEaR6cZ3gKeLZD6rU6coZdaN6LVMh9t4m5eJHhZ4Ul_Ua9zIqTNJ5vtR2g3IvvqObZZwJLrUvaVsTJDakUlQ8kTEM3yee7GK3e514z-hcQQ3XgYK4/s1600/IMG_8515.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir6Gr1yZPqcYduN5cRC62VGyVJPCZEaR6cZ3gKeLZD6rU6coZdaN6LVMh9t4m5eJHhZ4Ul_Ua9zIqTNJ5vtR2g3IvvqObZZwJLrUvaVsTJDakUlQ8kTEM3yee7GK3e514z-hcQQ3XgYK4/s400/IMG_8515.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><br />
After we got back from the race, my friend and I went to California Kitchn Pizza for our own carbo reload. =-)<br />
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Overall, I think this race could have been better had they not changed the course a bit, the reason I enjoyed the prevous years was it's a small marathon, nice and quiet but challenging course with great post race food and entertainments, but this year they seem to gone down a notch a bit. Hopefully they will improve from this year and make some changes for next year's. <br />
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<b style="color: red;">Next Race..........................Running with the Devil Marathon, 6-25-2011</b>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-13533522655630118782011-07-13T10:15:00.000-07:002011-07-13T10:18:32.401-07:00Big Sur International Marathon RecapThis was my <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b>8th</b> </span>marathon of the year and <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">81th</span></b> marathon overall<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg664luPbYyPh59nN93dW8GEhr6LYp4P1TlTsIWU4-UqBfq1GxZKNI8iQOuDPa2M4QmW-e_SFP-Ym_SrjbmeEzV_OLbdp_irC4vK30hTH1OYLccdubWsefdgU6A5Q2mlV9rlhmi7M0DSLM/s1600/IMG_8477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg664luPbYyPh59nN93dW8GEhr6LYp4P1TlTsIWU4-UqBfq1GxZKNI8iQOuDPa2M4QmW-e_SFP-Ym_SrjbmeEzV_OLbdp_irC4vK30hTH1OYLccdubWsefdgU6A5Q2mlV9rlhmi7M0DSLM/s400/IMG_8477.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Expo</span></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkR9Vx5T2MGN6DsFEf5mvBLaA2wpxbL2Ws4oWusm_9eQAMa-wXD7AULZ0bJNuDkVydLb3Bf6ySG_Nmc7vqhav1vWMRm94zcxuudIZ_iJztZxwt1sfTUF0LeWnAoNEOcrUSvl0rjkbaKZ0/s1600/IMG_8421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkR9Vx5T2MGN6DsFEf5mvBLaA2wpxbL2Ws4oWusm_9eQAMa-wXD7AULZ0bJNuDkVydLb3Bf6ySG_Nmc7vqhav1vWMRm94zcxuudIZ_iJztZxwt1sfTUF0LeWnAoNEOcrUSvl0rjkbaKZ0/s320/IMG_8421.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Got to meet Bart Yasso at the expo</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQv2-EQGoWseU759n-XXkcOhVBGxEvbt_Z0U-a5-np5uIJThfx7JoZ7JCVkOXVV-_55eqza3evfxcigGfFjTPjxBbgGqjUKIxpm-hTtYTHPwcA6UdLnpR6lyRa1TbbHvrP-BTJzmjv-Iw/s1600/IMG_8412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQv2-EQGoWseU759n-XXkcOhVBGxEvbt_Z0U-a5-np5uIJThfx7JoZ7JCVkOXVV-_55eqza3evfxcigGfFjTPjxBbgGqjUKIxpm-hTtYTHPwcA6UdLnpR6lyRa1TbbHvrP-BTJzmjv-Iw/s320/IMG_8412.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Pre Race Dinner</span></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> My carbo load restaurant</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFewm04Ni2Xy6SZC8gc1Y9z3mcdrHz6gmOooZRHLObq2EifMyzHdzSnIAHpEoHbBOaOIIXzWhJcRq-POWifHqt_6jPcQonAULA8VI3V9fqljJUFZKUGLa2kz6Ck5gf8qZYoQKVD58SsPw/s1600/IMG_8423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFewm04Ni2Xy6SZC8gc1Y9z3mcdrHz6gmOooZRHLObq2EifMyzHdzSnIAHpEoHbBOaOIIXzWhJcRq-POWifHqt_6jPcQonAULA8VI3V9fqljJUFZKUGLa2kz6Ck5gf8qZYoQKVD58SsPw/s320/IMG_8423.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> My carbo load meal</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJ9vuEieUQjZBe7FTzoT94H4ssp57cJU7Zzg_XRmNOe6Z-3SSEOAW_18UG26u4-g8OS9BlARY_jFaVZGbKAXebrlNUClmG7lcLtzqVJEFyEfOpPA_LGgBeT6TG4NXA7kS602MCtO0BdQ/s1600/IMG_8424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJ9vuEieUQjZBe7FTzoT94H4ssp57cJU7Zzg_XRmNOe6Z-3SSEOAW_18UG26u4-g8OS9BlARY_jFaVZGbKAXebrlNUClmG7lcLtzqVJEFyEfOpPA_LGgBeT6TG4NXA7kS602MCtO0BdQ/s320/IMG_8424.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Race Day</span></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"> Getting ready to run Big Sur!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQcAPR10h7i25B6hqpNWQdvcc23t56947uXFuYe1pC_H4EaOLgEpKaxTyM3448nK3PZZsKOTRYJjzmydYKbCqgskEd7FtllQZyi-bheatPvm77GrRCN-f6eYz6O30d0lsJm4v_lid0lqw/s1600/IMG_8429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQcAPR10h7i25B6hqpNWQdvcc23t56947uXFuYe1pC_H4EaOLgEpKaxTyM3448nK3PZZsKOTRYJjzmydYKbCqgskEd7FtllQZyi-bheatPvm77GrRCN-f6eYz6O30d0lsJm4v_lid0lqw/s320/IMG_8429.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Randy and I inside the Safeway before the race</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggr8-zLP8AZCz5AO-PuaJ6OfgK5cNTyPiOVBnG_RvRyyOJcn1GV_1o-gBwQKpUpXfJzApUGstqTfESg63l8G95_6_lG5-scTttvIGWxLkqJ0t9fOE8O6a4ZZSxfFBuvsEYmXMb4ANJH-Q/s1600/IMG_8431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggr8-zLP8AZCz5AO-PuaJ6OfgK5cNTyPiOVBnG_RvRyyOJcn1GV_1o-gBwQKpUpXfJzApUGstqTfESg63l8G95_6_lG5-scTttvIGWxLkqJ0t9fOE8O6a4ZZSxfFBuvsEYmXMb4ANJH-Q/s320/IMG_8431.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Runners getting their coffee fix at Starbucks inside the Safeway before the race</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0KSyd8QcWLbfP4jp4d8yE8cdPU7beu1CyKX_zhOlU8Vqyh8WTVHb7VAbYxNwvRvoTqu2lUcMgwX6PRS5FS1xmHFZ0nOascEkYmjVc2Or5aolGA07zif4g7q3L_WV0oJ4PiVv89m-x02Y/s1600/IMG_8432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0KSyd8QcWLbfP4jp4d8yE8cdPU7beu1CyKX_zhOlU8Vqyh8WTVHb7VAbYxNwvRvoTqu2lUcMgwX6PRS5FS1xmHFZ0nOascEkYmjVc2Or5aolGA07zif4g7q3L_WV0oJ4PiVv89m-x02Y/s320/IMG_8432.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Never seen that many runner inside the supermarket before</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj8v5X34jPn7NroU7mlBwfJGRnNvDlSJ94i0Oufiw8GR-qVcOlwIKcVh6hoRh0M7YSNZ0KDFrFYIZW04Vq03FjlTBkhgO6g1BQCOIqrJYAJtW6zYeIFASYUudWC9SzZiFuE2EhXT9Ue24/s1600/IMG_8433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj8v5X34jPn7NroU7mlBwfJGRnNvDlSJ94i0Oufiw8GR-qVcOlwIKcVh6hoRh0M7YSNZ0KDFrFYIZW04Vq03FjlTBkhgO6g1BQCOIqrJYAJtW6zYeIFASYUudWC9SzZiFuE2EhXT9Ue24/s320/IMG_8433.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Waiting in my corral before the start</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3YV68Nn2lIO2XAElMwk8GnDFxJsLouXamKrJGX6lC14b360YPPRnpxQvNEkMjR54UibXb05UL4yzytUmFFx8Tcuej6LkbtIcd12WqOzadhvmtUNPaxSXs9hMYqO1vf9LlKu-tw0e5uQ/s1600/IMG_8442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3YV68Nn2lIO2XAElMwk8GnDFxJsLouXamKrJGX6lC14b360YPPRnpxQvNEkMjR54UibXb05UL4yzytUmFFx8Tcuej6LkbtIcd12WqOzadhvmtUNPaxSXs9hMYqO1vf9LlKu-tw0e5uQ/s400/IMG_8442.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Bumped into my friend Brooke(Runningbrooke.com)before the start</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3YV68Nn2lIO2XAElMwk8GnDFxJsLouXamKrJGX6lC14b360YPPRnpxQvNEkMjR54UibXb05UL4yzytUmFFx8Tcuej6LkbtIcd12WqOzadhvmtUNPaxSXs9hMYqO1vf9LlKu-tw0e5uQ/s1600/IMG_8442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrRv_CCXQTBGcR-76zDxja9e-9DKxCOigVYF3xP8dzhf-8o4sqtwJFJ6Xfy89EGnVVh4Yb65t7WzsfOfOj6Rjt6S_ES5x4wdCdMbG-qb2q3GfJ23rhBgDvdpLZAb1kj1Irz4G-P2zjUXc/s1600/IMG_8438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrRv_CCXQTBGcR-76zDxja9e-9DKxCOigVYF3xP8dzhf-8o4sqtwJFJ6Xfy89EGnVVh4Yb65t7WzsfOfOj6Rjt6S_ES5x4wdCdMbG-qb2q3GfJ23rhBgDvdpLZAb1kj1Irz4G-P2zjUXc/s320/IMG_8438.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> My goal was to finish around 4:30, last time I ran Big Sur, I finished around 4:40.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJvOJVySsPwYt5sb42uNgQz5ywEGZKdZh3mgTHYvFdXRe4LQDjDFcC0s_iWiypGoZZlkIzQ3Bqgxiq5Uqdmp9D8Rbu7nnqGttIpnq_zJY9rQb3UPCN-K_UtBqL16BNsrczPaLPn-Vof2A/s1600/bigsur.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJvOJVySsPwYt5sb42uNgQz5ywEGZKdZh3mgTHYvFdXRe4LQDjDFcC0s_iWiypGoZZlkIzQ3Bqgxiq5Uqdmp9D8Rbu7nnqGttIpnq_zJY9rQb3UPCN-K_UtBqL16BNsrczPaLPn-Vof2A/s400/bigsur.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Famous piano player on the course, since it's a out and back course, we get to see him twice instead!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4IOC271YMkRstMMBOV2re8GewhbdzMJxqQhlzkcHX_fH_fhELIwjEzHChNUW8nhMFAcg64MHvywr3pjoGP8w-P7KDXp2O7Wh4ouuq_6f1qs13q2LfA98e9XURODq4gWh3sL-mwKU790w/s1600/IMG_8443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4IOC271YMkRstMMBOV2re8GewhbdzMJxqQhlzkcHX_fH_fhELIwjEzHChNUW8nhMFAcg64MHvywr3pjoGP8w-P7KDXp2O7Wh4ouuq_6f1qs13q2LfA98e9XURODq4gWh3sL-mwKU790w/s400/IMG_8443.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishqABXBEnAoBE6W4J5hyphenhyphenmjXEn4jonIJUKTz0a2y3wrkFzfV2DRYIsQNnRUs5kLkFVUhGPMAci7MCJGFIkKzPe0y7AYm6ZiOGagFvSyUR6CvdmnU8CtG4k3uP8B5HNFiQTl7braAADp_8/s1600/IMG_8444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishqABXBEnAoBE6W4J5hyphenhyphenmjXEn4jonIJUKTz0a2y3wrkFzfV2DRYIsQNnRUs5kLkFVUhGPMAci7MCJGFIkKzPe0y7AYm6ZiOGagFvSyUR6CvdmnU8CtG4k3uP8B5HNFiQTl7braAADp_8/s400/IMG_8444.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> 7 more miles to go!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0US4KZI1VRaUOhRrrySxBVcMUpwGzZVCHQsdCAJN89Yf1qKu7EzESafqwAm2bnTAJM_42Y7MTJ2sa5hBU_7dk3hYOQYGE1bG_Tw9_-v-8J-QnyqznAZqYmVmp-2ZCRNH3iUblmhPqDI4/s1600/IMG_8446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0US4KZI1VRaUOhRrrySxBVcMUpwGzZVCHQsdCAJN89Yf1qKu7EzESafqwAm2bnTAJM_42Y7MTJ2sa5hBU_7dk3hYOQYGE1bG_Tw9_-v-8J-QnyqznAZqYmVmp-2ZCRNH3iUblmhPqDI4/s400/IMG_8446.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_81tW3YczKZ_4QbsTUduiqB_EJK-R6ZL4g9QVaaVq9dQqb5uOE22CV8dVnwHqCsYXrkTyoWb8YMDKlA9V-umS6teVD3Jl408iDmj4bEdxMdqcUSfCk7p2Esy2Lvenb_Rn29B7DW8s9c/s1600/IMG_8452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_81tW3YczKZ_4QbsTUduiqB_EJK-R6ZL4g9QVaaVq9dQqb5uOE22CV8dVnwHqCsYXrkTyoWb8YMDKlA9V-umS6teVD3Jl408iDmj4bEdxMdqcUSfCk7p2Esy2Lvenb_Rn29B7DW8s9c/s400/IMG_8452.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Almost done!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbf26MvqK53jwFJyWDVjE94ZweaQDwZAw2PtRwPOCBk4ocuJm_IvKmS9KUoEAWsqUuZrwPbwYkFPGZlZTbVBeyL35RelDbAR3u00rQytsi_nnr5TYhJrzA4i8tWbVR52-RBI0oYYAv3Y/s1600/IMG_8453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbf26MvqK53jwFJyWDVjE94ZweaQDwZAw2PtRwPOCBk4ocuJm_IvKmS9KUoEAWsqUuZrwPbwYkFPGZlZTbVBeyL35RelDbAR3u00rQytsi_nnr5TYhJrzA4i8tWbVR52-RBI0oYYAv3Y/s400/IMG_8453.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Met up with my friend Alyssa at the finish line. I finished in <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">4:24.55!! A Big Sur PR!!</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5oTQ-qt2wMEUkJ2RHlAgfmmOvi6TgMKqvMPr6P1w4lx7J6xE_C47Yi38Z2rB8RGht57XdI7uhzBPg0yNmJBk5Uwd2ezCOv_cURjInEWyfB1F6ajcpdl_pxAmxsD3HXn1TWo0DnXfRnH8/s1600/IMG_8468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5oTQ-qt2wMEUkJ2RHlAgfmmOvi6TgMKqvMPr6P1w4lx7J6xE_C47Yi38Z2rB8RGht57XdI7uhzBPg0yNmJBk5Uwd2ezCOv_cURjInEWyfB1F6ajcpdl_pxAmxsD3HXn1TWo0DnXfRnH8/s400/IMG_8468.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">We all get a tray of food after we finished.</div><div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKo8_Gvd4GIRWA8khP8sjkJlr8WVaD-l16AYI7MHFh5rMBlBtHCW6Z9o5KYaZp8_d4y-hV5Oq0zOZy81011LOePnf-DfEBF1r12xC86c71t2Rzi7ckKZz9_Wy1lIqf2h_6xUvsxiIcTQ/s1600/IMG_8456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKo8_Gvd4GIRWA8khP8sjkJlr8WVaD-l16AYI7MHFh5rMBlBtHCW6Z9o5KYaZp8_d4y-hV5Oq0zOZy81011LOePnf-DfEBF1r12xC86c71t2Rzi7ckKZz9_Wy1lIqf2h_6xUvsxiIcTQ/s400/IMG_8456.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I went to this place for some breakfast after the race. They were about to close when I got there but were able to fit me in. GREAT FOOD!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAim8oM5GUCmJjHLIc_8DWcmlqPc5DFewI__4hbVUUp78QTEUH0A5B9kpnUcyLobJw3QZ8PjOeLaj_nmSRpbQJNNVRqukPz2NNI3urLypNJAljmKv70BYnnfVfVxZRe0Y58cDd_7YLR7E/s1600/IMG_8471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAim8oM5GUCmJjHLIc_8DWcmlqPc5DFewI__4hbVUUp78QTEUH0A5B9kpnUcyLobJw3QZ8PjOeLaj_nmSRpbQJNNVRqukPz2NNI3urLypNJAljmKv70BYnnfVfVxZRe0Y58cDd_7YLR7E/s320/IMG_8471.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN0PJuh_E_iOJHC6J7dl9VeY_CZ05yLDBTsvuEAlhOu-BL5eeGfWhRuyjyVCPcpJeyM0ADZLU0aMIlS8epjY1ttXSswoX0pfuBOpYIr-Yw0QhDrGsuAJaheXzpl1eeuXaz_GWCx-MlVpQ/s1600/228756_1711479388949_1297055692_31538116_4675226_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN0PJuh_E_iOJHC6J7dl9VeY_CZ05yLDBTsvuEAlhOu-BL5eeGfWhRuyjyVCPcpJeyM0ADZLU0aMIlS8epjY1ttXSswoX0pfuBOpYIr-Yw0QhDrGsuAJaheXzpl1eeuXaz_GWCx-MlVpQ/s320/228756_1711479388949_1297055692_31538116_4675226_n.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b>Next Race.......................................Palos Verdes Marathon, 5/14/2011</b></span></i></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-89916980472894668552011-06-26T16:43:00.000-07:002011-06-26T16:46:02.633-07:00Labor of Love 50 Miler<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ok I guess I haven't been updating my races for awhile so I will make it a quick recap of this race.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1t7ho8SfwInLSfLOWKMb76kfqiKxYP97sxyHxXP1X9kHGwId7eknk0WIR2_CjTXnMuPOKhUBCO7gXSX076sUvWozlembBIsaH3J6V_Ph6UZOGFykfXJHBEFW6xVxFlf7os_X0MxbXHPE/s1600/IMG_8289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1t7ho8SfwInLSfLOWKMb76kfqiKxYP97sxyHxXP1X9kHGwId7eknk0WIR2_CjTXnMuPOKhUBCO7gXSX076sUvWozlembBIsaH3J6V_Ph6UZOGFykfXJHBEFW6xVxFlf7os_X0MxbXHPE/s400/IMG_8289.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">This was my 2nd 50 Miler event, last year I did the American River 50 up north in Auburn, CA, so this year I decided to do this Calico Racing's event, since it's close to Vegas so there wasnt too much of the driving, only around 4 hrs or so. Plus I was on my quest to get my SLAM, which I have to complete 4 Calico Racing events within a 12 months period, and Labor of Love event was my 3rd out of 4 events that I needed to complete.</div><br />
<b>Packet Pickup - Friday, 4-8-11</b><br />
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The packet pickup was located inside the REI store in Henderson, which was about 15 miles from Las Vegas, the processing was pretty nice and fast, I was in and out of there in about half an hour<br />
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<b>Pre-Race Dinner</b><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">I helped organized a carbo load dinner at Bucca di Beppo nearby Vegas, there were only 8 of us so it was a small group, which worked out best because we could get to talk to everybody all at once instead of having a large group.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<b>Race morning - Saturday 4-9-11</b><br />
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It was REALLY REALLY cold in the morning, after I picked up my friends, who were also running the race, we drove to the parking area which was only a few miles from the start. We stayed inside the car since it was 24 degree outside at 5am!!! We stayed in there for like an hour then we had to take the shuttle bus to the start.<br />
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The race started at 7am, I decided to keep my arm warmers and gloves with me the whole race. We started running on this paved road inside the beautiful Loyell Canyon. For the 50 miler, all we had to do was run this 11 mile stretch out and back twice, which makes is 44 miles total, then a little 3 miles out and back to complete the 50 miles. They have 2 full stocked aid station about 5.5 miles, and the water station every 2 to 3 miles.<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">Since I was doing the 50 miler, I was just trying to take it easy and take it slow, my goal was to beat my previous 50 miler time, which was 11:08. After 4 miles of climbing, there was finally a long stretch of downhill leading to the first fully stocked station, they had cup o noddles, pretzels, bananas, etc. After I grabbed a few snacks, I continued my way and looking forward to the turnaround point at Mile 11 mark. When I reached the turnaround point, I had the volunteer made me a cup of Cup of Noodle cuz it was still cold that time. Then I finished the first loop in around 4 hour. So I had pretty good chance of setting a new PR for 50 Miler.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1flQlFnJSCCfVT-zid2ZNlgR3RvMv2l6lWYJ7KiadM6FgRktk2MfEhiG1m4nSw-Fgv03jwPlTKDRQY6EK8XHtqTVci_2djmULXbIehgTkGc9IHqjp7d1fgeaMDqTvUOAwJU5YwTujlt8/s1600/IMG_8292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1flQlFnJSCCfVT-zid2ZNlgR3RvMv2l6lWYJ7KiadM6FgRktk2MfEhiG1m4nSw-Fgv03jwPlTKDRQY6EK8XHtqTVci_2djmULXbIehgTkGc9IHqjp7d1fgeaMDqTvUOAwJU5YwTujlt8/s400/IMG_8292.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">A quick self portrait before I went for my 2nd loop.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For the first time in my running experience, I have ran in the snow!!! It was around Mile 33 when I was on my way to the turnaround point for the 2nd time, there was actually snowing while I was running. I still had my arm warmer and gloves on cuz it was REALLY cold, as you can see it in the picture below, plus I had not one but 2 cups of noodles to warm me up!!! the sodium from the soup always help. I actually continued to walk back while I was eating the noodles at the same time, I felt like I was in heaven when I taste those noodles.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjVX-qVVb-nFqRfRBxn-B8j6HlbZ10G3W6J1cIeItFEml0DrtzNDNtxsiJgyXAizNYnhxRJSFV_A9aHjy0pn2spso9RQCfp_IyjGSpPLwsx34Q4gRYnUe1JpQcCCok75TAqwczBLWamu4/s1600/IMG_8295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjVX-qVVb-nFqRfRBxn-B8j6HlbZ10G3W6J1cIeItFEml0DrtzNDNtxsiJgyXAizNYnhxRJSFV_A9aHjy0pn2spso9RQCfp_IyjGSpPLwsx34Q4gRYnUe1JpQcCCok75TAqwczBLWamu4/s400/IMG_8295.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is me enjoying my cup of noodles IN THE SNOW!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl2Nip0LZ8xMFsRVmd7T_tEKcsa1Z9LZ3_unAotnwsYokm_Ay855jJy2ixx81PhAXXEkJm4Y0mbjiKgnfxOGH6xwjkh7o9Q6P3adPq7LG6Ht-o_j7HSaY1jN-FPjaPff6igEyoTujXVt4/s1600/IMG_8293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl2Nip0LZ8xMFsRVmd7T_tEKcsa1Z9LZ3_unAotnwsYokm_Ay855jJy2ixx81PhAXXEkJm4Y0mbjiKgnfxOGH6xwjkh7o9Q6P3adPq7LG6Ht-o_j7HSaY1jN-FPjaPff6igEyoTujXVt4/s640/IMG_8293.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">The aid station had hot water boiling to keep us warm.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I finished the 2nd loop a little over 9 hours, then after I grabbed yet another cup of noodles, I went back for another loops, but this time it was only 6 miles, 3 miles out, 3 miles back. I was running/walking with this guy who was doing the 100 miler, which he had to complete the loop 4 times!! He was on his way for his 3rd loop, he talked to me and encouraged me to push myself a little when I didnt feel like running, then when I reach the turnaround point, he continued his way while I finished my last 3 miles!!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I finished the 50 Miler in 10:29.28!! A NEW 50 Miler PR!!! I also won 1st place for my age group!! Actual the first 2 overall finishers are in my age group, but there is not double dipping, they cant win both award, so I guess I will take it. I got this little cactus as my trophy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUz0k-cqSCMjA1NkVWkhowlJ1QKW4XkmhzuJkRlOzNR4CdSCU-eDd4sugIXdvoNS5nVbXhu5_t26Ow5RXuyW4C_tUxHvqA2RH17OzM1iiM94xlBN7Aa_VpfA3AuOAdyYsphb9bEgGSVIk/s1600/IMG_8300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUz0k-cqSCMjA1NkVWkhowlJ1QKW4XkmhzuJkRlOzNR4CdSCU-eDd4sugIXdvoNS5nVbXhu5_t26Ow5RXuyW4C_tUxHvqA2RH17OzM1iiM94xlBN7Aa_VpfA3AuOAdyYsphb9bEgGSVIk/s400/IMG_8300.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJhtKnTydUSv4pgcVQD-Bo-YsnZ7q-bljosqBoVRlGhiQAj9Azg4eRakbKbtkpx8hyphenhyphenuTUJRxVtUmMcewnxuYXN6BPc7keOYBbmv6spCg3gwkmkZq_At44YxOoTyxE48eKkrkogJ_HZMc/s1600/IMG_8308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJhtKnTydUSv4pgcVQD-Bo-YsnZ7q-bljosqBoVRlGhiQAj9Azg4eRakbKbtkpx8hyphenhyphenuTUJRxVtUmMcewnxuYXN6BPc7keOYBbmv6spCg3gwkmkZq_At44YxOoTyxE48eKkrkogJ_HZMc/s400/IMG_8308.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">Overall, I think this is another challenging fun course, actually all the Calico Racing's events are challenging AND fun!! I will definately do this again soon, maybe 100 miler next time. =-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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</div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Next Race.......................Big Sur International Marathon, 5-1-11</span></b>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-9154263433771483152011-05-19T14:17:00.000-07:002011-05-19T14:20:59.334-07:00Bataan Death March Marathon Recap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is my <b>7th</b> marathon this year and <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: large;">80th</span></b> marathon overall!!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPa5g7KDJf7xw6gvV7sAW_Hx97FgRTY4NVG15-4gp1MRPx-5caB42ez0Ij9vt5f0Dn_OpnaBVe6fYcZNlRN8bdfQApnYnL89lED3LaS975ieYMllQOq-MsgWgJNo6VNDqqt1baBdZERQ/s1600/DSCN8423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPa5g7KDJf7xw6gvV7sAW_Hx97FgRTY4NVG15-4gp1MRPx-5caB42ez0Ij9vt5f0Dn_OpnaBVe6fYcZNlRN8bdfQApnYnL89lED3LaS975ieYMllQOq-MsgWgJNo6VNDqqt1baBdZERQ/s320/DSCN8423.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I still cant believe that I have ran 80 marathons!!! I picked this race as my 80th marathon because I needed a new state to complete my a marathon in all 50 States journey, so far I have completed 16 states. Plus I heard this one is a very memorable and challenging event that a lot of people go back every year just to participate in this event.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Thursday - 3-24-11</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After I arrived at the El Paso Airport, I went to pick up my rental car, BUT I found out that I did not bring my temporary driver's license, because I lost my wallet a few weeks ago and I only brought my citizenship certificate to get on my flight. So without my DL, I couldnt rent a car and I was stranded at the airport!! I didnt want to take the taxi to my hotel room because I know it would cost a fortune!! So I figured out from my iPhone that I could take the bus from the airport to my hotel, with one transfer, which took only an hour and a half total and $3, WAY cheaper than taking a tax. The bus stop was about 1/4 mile from my HoJo so I didnt mind the walk, at least I got to my hotel finally.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Friday - 3-25-11</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Since I dont have a car to get me around town and my friend wont get into town until Saturday afternoon, I just decided to take a walk down to Downtown El Paso, which was about 6 miles from my hotel, I carried my camo backpack with my laptop inside, cuz I wanted to get used the heavy weight on my back, and make my way down there to do some sightseeing on foot. Once I got to the El Paso/Mexico border, I decided to walk to Juarez, Mexico with ONLY my citizenship certificate with no passport or driver's license, call me crazy!! And YES, I was able to get back to the US after walking there for an hour, but I probably wont be back there again, it's definately not a vacational spot. So after all day of walking and sightseeing, I walked back to my hotel and crashed after I stopped by a restaurant for some delicious hotdogs.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8yDGiL9iqHGaM2s3hFzDzboIRrPLVjqpstsevdaPGwKavkRXxBKt15NUkNM5pJSQiZcgjV4U9jawXcnQ69XgbiIfIwn-DfD7euUE9HSjU4OCBwGYqhlCvWEwn9sSxyVo0DCrnBVHZU-4/s1600/IMG_8047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8yDGiL9iqHGaM2s3hFzDzboIRrPLVjqpstsevdaPGwKavkRXxBKt15NUkNM5pJSQiZcgjV4U9jawXcnQ69XgbiIfIwn-DfD7euUE9HSjU4OCBwGYqhlCvWEwn9sSxyVo0DCrnBVHZU-4/s400/IMG_8047.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">At the Mexico/Texas border.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqFHuTGJ6LrB8xGaFy-1y6TOmfKhFvAJNYUQiqC-6LVujiv8NAqo4MiKYmGTai3FITDihSlci8PQ0lF9uhbqC9mNeFWWjIeapeEK-LH_X1aTMw8K58EFK6lXM6Ru2zZnP7044QIIs3FU/s1600/DSCN8232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqFHuTGJ6LrB8xGaFy-1y6TOmfKhFvAJNYUQiqC-6LVujiv8NAqo4MiKYmGTai3FITDihSlci8PQ0lF9uhbqC9mNeFWWjIeapeEK-LH_X1aTMw8K58EFK6lXM6Ru2zZnP7044QIIs3FU/s400/DSCN8232.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><b>Saturday - 3-26-11</b><br />
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So my friend Brent, who was also doing the race, picked me up from my hotel room and we drove to the White Sand Missile Range in New Mexico to pick up our bib and everything. He did that race the previous year so he knows how to get there better than I do.<br />
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Once we got inside the military base, we made our way to the gymnasium where most of the runners/marchers stayed for the night before the race, FOR FREE!! They have showers and lockers and everything, but you will have to bring your own sleepbag, or you could get one of their cots offer to runners on a first come first serve basis. But Brent and I decided to sleep in the car for the night, cuz that's how we roll!!! =-) But it was REALLY windy outside our car, we could feel our car move!!<br />
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<b>Pasta Dinner</b><br />
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The pasta dinner that they prepared for us at their cafateria was awesome!! Nice warm pasta with a few sauces, dinner rolls, salad, brownies and cookies, totally got my money worth!! We also got to meet a few World War II Veterans also.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2_GcbChvQngd4Y_U83ZPe70ogqlzOnSAL5NTtzbLR606vWk1ZFz9F9uu-6x9HbxFXBZ1DkVaWjqVDEe5T6nysMIgHoIvWhcxyQpBOW5cnHoSGgEMAgeWygweQsPbc3WiTQqhGKq7nlw8/s1600/DSCN8250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2_GcbChvQngd4Y_U83ZPe70ogqlzOnSAL5NTtzbLR606vWk1ZFz9F9uu-6x9HbxFXBZ1DkVaWjqVDEe5T6nysMIgHoIvWhcxyQpBOW5cnHoSGgEMAgeWygweQsPbc3WiTQqhGKq7nlw8/s400/DSCN8250.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">me, Brent and Nina got to me one of the WWII veteran.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">After the dinner, we went to watch this free movie :"The Great Raid" they offered at the nearby theater, this movie was about how the<span class="style76" style="color: black;"></span></span></div><div class="style79" style="color: black; display: inline !important; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; line-height: 12.05pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="style80" style="color: #221e1f;"> </span><span class="style80" style="color: #221e1f;">6th Rangers Batallion rescue more than 500 American prisoners of war back in the days from the notorious Cabanatuan Japanese POW camp. Great movie!!</span></span></div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Race Day - 3-27-11</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is the FIRST time I ever wore hiking shoes, long pants and carry a 10lbs backpack in a race!! My original plan was to march the challenging course with a 35lbs backpack, but because I dont think I could handle 35lbs bag, so I just changed my mind and dropped it to 10lbs instead, I just wanted to have a good time and just enjoy the experience without worry about the time.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Before the race begins, they had a ceremony honoring those veterans who had fought for our country, there were hundreds of soldiers dressed in army uniform who were also carrying 35lbs backpack on their back and ready to march the course. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucsh3LEcEhFMGdCsXwFarF6p7ZHgpze0eFRjWfIO5wfaVWIGQfkX4HS85E8C42ExBSp67H6t09NHT55X9E3dr855zQVYDJnh8unXC8JRN_OEBkMoKNV9KMM39tZeRE8BMORxxhVxcV3w/s1600/DSCN8421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucsh3LEcEhFMGdCsXwFarF6p7ZHgpze0eFRjWfIO5wfaVWIGQfkX4HS85E8C42ExBSp67H6t09NHT55X9E3dr855zQVYDJnh8unXC8JRN_OEBkMoKNV9KMM39tZeRE8BMORxxhVxcV3w/s400/DSCN8421.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here is our timing chip that we get to keep!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJqbS8bzGcjP6s7EwJg2oseos3T7CnS_OH7piy1XHoLepGiqvCz_DDI3tm5lFE3nO19eo7-DZmhzJxwQbT92IbHUnUFq3ueftoJFMeqhLXWWJfFLwzo6GCyHPfi_mKnKZdqD-c-PavKtI/s1600/DSCN8298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJqbS8bzGcjP6s7EwJg2oseos3T7CnS_OH7piy1XHoLepGiqvCz_DDI3tm5lFE3nO19eo7-DZmhzJxwQbT92IbHUnUFq3ueftoJFMeqhLXWWJfFLwzo6GCyHPfi_mKnKZdqD-c-PavKtI/s400/DSCN8298.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Nina and I met one of the veterans at the start.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAdwfY5KrLbJHpjh4TscoHGNrssrLjZo-YKYq0VAkYYVQ5pwM48gEs0c_xyz6q3lZXFCIzhJphRmWRHPs2zDdqYL6mpJnitSAbc92MHfw4mdxb4uPyFN64N29P_UuqmzLQpyLRsv0XJM/s1600/DSCN8265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAdwfY5KrLbJHpjh4TscoHGNrssrLjZo-YKYq0VAkYYVQ5pwM48gEs0c_xyz6q3lZXFCIzhJphRmWRHPs2zDdqYL6mpJnitSAbc92MHfw4mdxb4uPyFN64N29P_UuqmzLQpyLRsv0XJM/s400/DSCN8265.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Runner/marchers getting ready hr before the start.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQsjMywuz2FIayngaW1FjqlKrT31AbjiL4VVSIYUVQy39tFmE8QK0-W_JcKnr72NWIYTUmlVSEL9CEdcis4u9hWbGgCEOH_3fqMJyE992V09L_XOh1NO1_huDgDnVo5J5TA508y-Sftg/s1600/DSCN8301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQsjMywuz2FIayngaW1FjqlKrT31AbjiL4VVSIYUVQy39tFmE8QK0-W_JcKnr72NWIYTUmlVSEL9CEdcis4u9hWbGgCEOH_3fqMJyE992V09L_XOh1NO1_huDgDnVo5J5TA508y-Sftg/s320/DSCN8301.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Part of the course are on these sandy trails for miles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCZs4VJYWXxp_m_Ic29PX6argmlv_RjyMQTVLch3LsggUBgYg3ShW10YMUkoeVwDFf0s1N22bdmsvv7TbircoXkArf8lbo8jK_NOkzbXFomC1QVwMb-ZH5c9Ouy3dPvMwoAl_RDOOkTzc/s1600/DSCN8324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCZs4VJYWXxp_m_Ic29PX6argmlv_RjyMQTVLch3LsggUBgYg3ShW10YMUkoeVwDFf0s1N22bdmsvv7TbircoXkArf8lbo8jK_NOkzbXFomC1QVwMb-ZH5c9Ouy3dPvMwoAl_RDOOkTzc/s400/DSCN8324.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mile 13 marker, halfway done!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBi-_1x366l87572phbwzooliCngxOCLlHRKm-lfOK8sfXU8X_hhyXdJlWP_FAxXgG7NYaOcf-NZI8yjEaKX524QSj3CYzfUqfagEuODpaeF5j7aj3QXYjsG9jWCZroWAprtesRnB4u-U/s1600/DSCN8342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBi-_1x366l87572phbwzooliCngxOCLlHRKm-lfOK8sfXU8X_hhyXdJlWP_FAxXgG7NYaOcf-NZI8yjEaKX524QSj3CYzfUqfagEuODpaeF5j7aj3QXYjsG9jWCZroWAprtesRnB4u-U/s320/DSCN8342.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of the aid station on the course.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCulmFaih-g90FGfdg2_1JxJi_W8GaFLIpjAQHUSczn7IxpYuS4x2Z_JbQqSeEOCu37D_totdF1KbFoC1lSIoj_y7KKuUB9mHVxtnX2PjCZsoKCe1WQtIZdHtI1CZOz_skaqF2nvgzT1s/s1600/DSCN8319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCulmFaih-g90FGfdg2_1JxJi_W8GaFLIpjAQHUSczn7IxpYuS4x2Z_JbQqSeEOCu37D_totdF1KbFoC1lSIoj_y7KKuUB9mHVxtnX2PjCZsoKCe1WQtIZdHtI1CZOz_skaqF2nvgzT1s/s400/DSCN8319.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> A long stretch of dirt trail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgolF4yQhz7Zz4xfbjiJoe2C4ukMPFIUJog8kfZMMDgzV6l2U2_MyZltLMKepm2RZJnbz-zXg55BeXTlMd0hicgof2N19tG_fmqazniEVHe3tlmeq1TIegxZaw-5vxqpmNOjXKPgrEr0aE/s1600/DSCN8335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgolF4yQhz7Zz4xfbjiJoe2C4ukMPFIUJog8kfZMMDgzV6l2U2_MyZltLMKepm2RZJnbz-zXg55BeXTlMd0hicgof2N19tG_fmqazniEVHe3tlmeq1TIegxZaw-5vxqpmNOjXKPgrEr0aE/s400/DSCN8335.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There are many marchers with a full on militiary unform with heavy pack on their back.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtVqBses6N4xNcvh-vHl8E1eqhojzcn66kLlGUVtel2c3iCd5lpezouUcO6MWqWtXpUGXbF1w6XEkWTt7atGdGIEdOlXL7Q9pWCFBalk843O8n7Ez4mXHn_1eBQ-Du9TeguHN2sJXHc6g/s1600/DSCN8346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtVqBses6N4xNcvh-vHl8E1eqhojzcn66kLlGUVtel2c3iCd5lpezouUcO6MWqWtXpUGXbF1w6XEkWTt7atGdGIEdOlXL7Q9pWCFBalk843O8n7Ez4mXHn_1eBQ-Du9TeguHN2sJXHc6g/s400/DSCN8346.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another aid station on the course.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq6xPcCN5hHdXSZNPpXKfmD_35KvgLl9UrfQ22Xec9M0ngfUYkKXp25efXxF_BJmrMsVtJ0HcEozIgD5LayBm4TXt9FLIAUWoYDuwcANsum3GFdXAHaudT7Fjbobdk6nFYnxKk6mInWO4/s1600/DSCN8345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq6xPcCN5hHdXSZNPpXKfmD_35KvgLl9UrfQ22Xec9M0ngfUYkKXp25efXxF_BJmrMsVtJ0HcEozIgD5LayBm4TXt9FLIAUWoYDuwcANsum3GFdXAHaudT7Fjbobdk6nFYnxKk6mInWO4/s400/DSCN8345.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZLCjfSbDJ73YC3zcWgOPqch3Rew5QwUZhmlHmoD38omZIgfF1Wv0adolHW64fLzJSa8I5J8orIdZZ2kyqwf5rFYSWXc92ZHckLsUkrw9WcPTCWNAxQ4F7eky_YnPPnheGivnyiF-Nr9Y/s1600/DSCN8351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZLCjfSbDJ73YC3zcWgOPqch3Rew5QwUZhmlHmoD38omZIgfF1Wv0adolHW64fLzJSa8I5J8orIdZZ2kyqwf5rFYSWXc92ZHckLsUkrw9WcPTCWNAxQ4F7eky_YnPPnheGivnyiF-Nr9Y/s400/DSCN8351.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is one of few marchers who carried a flag for the entire 26.2 miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc9X-pzzYXoLfWqfuEOjn2W9V29WHmjbIV2acAwBdCjWE3xMTmuq4hIHJsVcVbcVpmgZKbm7JYuIHZYh-GOlOD2kAYGygiMdOE5EpTzrOy-RE-7wg_FbzXceaiTAYUcPwjrm7Yywaml08/s1600/DSCN8357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc9X-pzzYXoLfWqfuEOjn2W9V29WHmjbIV2acAwBdCjWE3xMTmuq4hIHJsVcVbcVpmgZKbm7JYuIHZYh-GOlOD2kAYGygiMdOE5EpTzrOy-RE-7wg_FbzXceaiTAYUcPwjrm7Yywaml08/s400/DSCN8357.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here are 3 marchers carried their Philipine's Flag duing this long windy uphill stretch.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinV8pvk-NeumIC13CHX_sv7l-FtpQ4cKNAmM3WRWio_3j_sQ7rnERFfWpqt8IRSKT-YRZCTNojAXwZbi0jjRGqh4NYRPA85eVZaPcWtU60yVsjdfeG9a_Lh5DBRF0VpDVe5dP2tZnZWO0/s1600/DSCN8377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinV8pvk-NeumIC13CHX_sv7l-FtpQ4cKNAmM3WRWio_3j_sQ7rnERFfWpqt8IRSKT-YRZCTNojAXwZbi0jjRGqh4NYRPA85eVZaPcWtU60yVsjdfeG9a_Lh5DBRF0VpDVe5dP2tZnZWO0/s400/DSCN8377.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 Mile to go!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinV8pvk-NeumIC13CHX_sv7l-FtpQ4cKNAmM3WRWio_3j_sQ7rnERFfWpqt8IRSKT-YRZCTNojAXwZbi0jjRGqh4NYRPA85eVZaPcWtU60yVsjdfeG9a_Lh5DBRF0VpDVe5dP2tZnZWO0/s1600/DSCN8377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62UhryQsn-N_LNVuXgcjOgRelm6X5GIq1MUJs_oc3MT24MIQl8bgkYp6gQMvaO7l_NfLyfGAY6x-CPcWqIS2fglvbTX0v9Gw3G8kjmwQMfoCdOAIB1vQ5ydw1hHpEJESCtoznl6jhOIo/s1600/DSCN8381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62UhryQsn-N_LNVuXgcjOgRelm6X5GIq1MUJs_oc3MT24MIQl8bgkYp6gQMvaO7l_NfLyfGAY6x-CPcWqIS2fglvbTX0v9Gw3G8kjmwQMfoCdOAIB1vQ5ydw1hHpEJESCtoznl6jhOIo/s400/DSCN8381.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Almost done!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOidY7kPNSFf3MxzcAcoAzFTkPbuWNX-MaqGpRLM5W8nMUFRSdKju-TbKVTdSuWhy2wgZAVWDUbaXKHZVhj5izqdSFJHmpsj-sDyf-kTk39D6v5F4-hEHkqG5n3STmj-fHdShtWZYdsdY/s1600/bataan4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOidY7kPNSFf3MxzcAcoAzFTkPbuWNX-MaqGpRLM5W8nMUFRSdKju-TbKVTdSuWhy2wgZAVWDUbaXKHZVhj5izqdSFJHmpsj-sDyf-kTk39D6v5F4-hEHkqG5n3STmj-fHdShtWZYdsdY/s320/bataan4.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I finished in<b> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">5:51.51!!</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWiUN2Bp7ZeEhQQHi6lNxfDJGXd4Clt8dva5iBi1c_MCdbZD9H_6qQ2E0Y0vEUzYqm9KUpPigr68ye-2hYTmOkSI6zUdAQ64yQHabWbSNgNkBoAa7fZUYR2D30SJrWThXUYQeMGzzpDms/s1600/DSCN8382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWiUN2Bp7ZeEhQQHi6lNxfDJGXd4Clt8dva5iBi1c_MCdbZD9H_6qQ2E0Y0vEUzYqm9KUpPigr68ye-2hYTmOkSI6zUdAQ64yQHabWbSNgNkBoAa7fZUYR2D30SJrWThXUYQeMGzzpDms/s400/DSCN8382.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Got to meet of the veterans at the Finish Line.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Overall, <a href="http://www.bataanmarch.com/">Bataan Death March</a> is a must do for ANYONE, runners or walker because you get to experience what the soldiers have gone thru back in the war days, once you have ran this race, you will never ever forget the experience.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After the race, a bunch of us went downt to the White Sands National Monument to watch the sunset, this was one of the most beautiful place I have ever been to, it's so peaceful, it's a great place to relax after the race.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLX_VJci6LBWO4YJoV8nM_GLNS2sQm53UZn874FJ_NJy_5WjYgJYZtlUtDSIwPyD_x5OlmRHmvwVBWy7Zlf2ywiVZMBoRxKN0tRjZiEVMk1qFLdz49HiP7W1GMKTBPWH2KK5ky3Moqi5Y/s1600/DSCN8397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLX_VJci6LBWO4YJoV8nM_GLNS2sQm53UZn874FJ_NJy_5WjYgJYZtlUtDSIwPyD_x5OlmRHmvwVBWy7Zlf2ywiVZMBoRxKN0tRjZiEVMk1qFLdz49HiP7W1GMKTBPWH2KK5ky3Moqi5Y/s400/DSCN8397.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGUS-rGeUWXHt-kqswI4clwdYU6cSUfUME5BhVkOehDVw6OywlyMV0Bx9a9TIHg6-fozBUQ6BBcpANxej-V8Q4GizoknB1FIF49qTfZvhM-XgqkGNYi8soGj7z0GDOmP4wVyJYJkqTLlw/s1600/IMG_8243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGUS-rGeUWXHt-kqswI4clwdYU6cSUfUME5BhVkOehDVw6OywlyMV0Bx9a9TIHg6-fozBUQ6BBcpANxej-V8Q4GizoknB1FIF49qTfZvhM-XgqkGNYi8soGj7z0GDOmP4wVyJYJkqTLlw/s400/IMG_8243.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7VFowcLxdO6KQYLW9qHDGtjZXCT18euYhyDCHEwKfkJTw1y-Ogud-TVMi5apv1a3XIeuTs_nDY_gktxb3O2iEGxrgnus1874s5_vA_UfOS3qK6wLw9hB87e1H8dicMfeViLoTwuxTN08/s1600/DSCN8407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7VFowcLxdO6KQYLW9qHDGtjZXCT18euYhyDCHEwKfkJTw1y-Ogud-TVMi5apv1a3XIeuTs_nDY_gktxb3O2iEGxrgnus1874s5_vA_UfOS3qK6wLw9hB87e1H8dicMfeViLoTwuxTN08/s400/DSCN8407.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I had an unforgetable trip in New Mexico, El Paso and Jurazes, Mexico. Bataan Death March is definately a race I will run again in the near future.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ83VVadCpcXm8JrPKmj5wbSjP9p9072XVHgVLM-DO630WW9seZd6t2PfdGAYjTIhl9olQ9VBCFG1gz6TpbyJQMEGzEqLaB4yFlR4PBVTdwF5pceBDQ4y7kPKpZZRGWbQyby5KrSzub0E/s1600/bataan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ83VVadCpcXm8JrPKmj5wbSjP9p9072XVHgVLM-DO630WW9seZd6t2PfdGAYjTIhl9olQ9VBCFG1gz6TpbyJQMEGzEqLaB4yFlR4PBVTdwF5pceBDQ4y7kPKpZZRGWbQyby5KrSzub0E/s320/bataan.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjaPw3bYbguFkSkpVvJ-MA-5e47Yp2-Y971DPdzQLROR-VFhT0ztffbmqdWy_W23hUOjDvxOd1Jp_d1vFtgXOwrBuLmkzOk7pGqkvCko7BhnK_D9HSLDvIAr33O1mx14wcuUYwlSmsfI/s1600/bataan1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjaPw3bYbguFkSkpVvJ-MA-5e47Yp2-Y971DPdzQLROR-VFhT0ztffbmqdWy_W23hUOjDvxOd1Jp_d1vFtgXOwrBuLmkzOk7pGqkvCko7BhnK_D9HSLDvIAr33O1mx14wcuUYwlSmsfI/s320/bataan1.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b>Next Race............................Labor of Love 50 Miler - 4-9-11</b></span></div></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-67563721266936310012011-03-24T04:54:00.000-07:002011-06-14T00:36:18.596-07:00Marathon #79 - L.A. Marathon RecapThis is my <b>6th</b> marathon of this year and this has got to be the WETTEST marathon I have EVER ran.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYHr_-K07BPKRkimfutU7ARpKmPg0AvWhOdNOhwxg9avklPggndVIKa3Ya2EDkJLS9kMQ1UgJrfk2pbHvCvdiURnLKStlGZLlQhOHl2F2wNkUA4tXkPzfC8AsdOnOS3ntaR1YoIcJj0g/s1600/DSCN8172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYHr_-K07BPKRkimfutU7ARpKmPg0AvWhOdNOhwxg9avklPggndVIKa3Ya2EDkJLS9kMQ1UgJrfk2pbHvCvdiURnLKStlGZLlQhOHl2F2wNkUA4tXkPzfC8AsdOnOS3ntaR1YoIcJj0g/s400/DSCN8172.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I have ran the LA Marathon ever since my first marathon in 2001, so this year was my 11th straight year that I have ran this local race, but this year happened to be the most unforgettable experience I have ever had, no I didnt set a PR, it's because that I ran in the RAIN!!! =-)<br />
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<b>Expo - Friday 3-18-2011</b><br />
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I went to the expo on Friday morning as soon as they open since I have to work later that afternoon and I didnt want to drive all the way to the Dodger Stadium Saturday afterwork cuz I heard it will gonna rain on Saturday. So when I got to the Dodger Stadium around 9:30am, there were already a lot of cars parked in the parking lot, I hung out in my car a little while because I knew the expo doesnt open until 10am. Then about 10 mins later, I grabbed a bag of shoes that I wanted to donate and headed to the expo. There were already a bunch of people waiting infront of the entrance getting ready to get in, but we didnt have to wait too long before they let us in.<br />
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When I was on my way to the packet pick up, I noticed they have their Honda Official Vehicle display inside the tent, I heard that all the runners name were printed on the car, so I had to go check it out.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">All the runners name are printed on one of 2 of their official lead vehicle</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4JirriP7HpzUzashe2xQno4Xe5IXi9jFrAkPvYlkSK8Pompsu6SBaT2buAWAZOSNioiQUo74Nn7t5KtS47-xAJEspXsXsx65XlPKpVsmRGnmmOVwZ_DGFbJul83T22LQnJekpKRRI_aY/s1600/191834_1629972951339_1297055692_31426505_8181934_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4JirriP7HpzUzashe2xQno4Xe5IXi9jFrAkPvYlkSK8Pompsu6SBaT2buAWAZOSNioiQUo74Nn7t5KtS47-xAJEspXsXsx65XlPKpVsmRGnmmOVwZ_DGFbJul83T22LQnJekpKRRI_aY/s400/191834_1629972951339_1297055692_31426505_8181934_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">The packet pickup located around the back of the expo, there were volunteers directed us where to go, plus they had the infomation section in the middle of the expo so that was a good touch. The pick up went pretty smooth, since I had an lower number, I was able to go to the first table on the left side once I went inside the tent. I was done in around 10 mins. Since I had a few hours to kill, I decided to check out the rest of the expo, it was a little bigger than last year, but it's small enough that you can see everything in an hour or so. I bumped into a few of my running friends, and one of them is from the internet radio Marathon Show, Joe Taricani. <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/themarathonshow">The Marathon Show</a> He is the one who interviews runners during a race, he is always full with energy, love that guy!!!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">This image was made up with K-Swiss shoes, how awesome was that!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrKQxmQO7W_pzoI_RvPjwYe5477PRD5aLQ523MfgvXDEq48dirfGaRuD5hJyP4rsANn6gnnTwcobR5ZccRIel11EqK_D4HwGsGxtRG4GMGBE02B8VYbxHE-cvOSglLmAn5mfMO-CoPHU/s1600/MAN_0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrKQxmQO7W_pzoI_RvPjwYe5477PRD5aLQ523MfgvXDEq48dirfGaRuD5hJyP4rsANn6gnnTwcobR5ZccRIel11EqK_D4HwGsGxtRG4GMGBE02B8VYbxHE-cvOSglLmAn5mfMO-CoPHU/s400/MAN_0034.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I wish these were the mile markers, but there were not.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb4hgiUEwmhnVeJ3CM7TnwEk4bwsitrBo9DWYnbzPso5KqkFMzaTPyDq6l-OVeiW_QeM88o5-72hZfMqqP48_Hjn9yd_xsVELItJ_fX4HqqyPOwfMyCrtWIeNTfX-Nypngq56GdJQu8JM/s1600/DSCN8054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb4hgiUEwmhnVeJ3CM7TnwEk4bwsitrBo9DWYnbzPso5KqkFMzaTPyDq6l-OVeiW_QeM88o5-72hZfMqqP48_Hjn9yd_xsVELItJ_fX4HqqyPOwfMyCrtWIeNTfX-Nypngq56GdJQu8JM/s400/DSCN8054.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii1vLTnWKrmWIXHqpOPLfrEiUErCEzKd726pHwMNTr524nCW-mtRsCfj-7tpHB65oyWhBLiSk1l6ReR6gxH-KUuG3Hv-I_ZfYnmrPnUAJjCNBbSZ1Pw0s6AdO3z7_KZXlG8EZ9UxQYZCs/s1600/DSCN8045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii1vLTnWKrmWIXHqpOPLfrEiUErCEzKd726pHwMNTr524nCW-mtRsCfj-7tpHB65oyWhBLiSk1l6ReR6gxH-KUuG3Hv-I_ZfYnmrPnUAJjCNBbSZ1Pw0s6AdO3z7_KZXlG8EZ9UxQYZCs/s400/DSCN8045.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I hung around the expo until 12:30pm before I had to head back home and get ready for work.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pre Race Meal</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I didnt really feel too hungry so I just went for the Subway's footlong Chicken Bacon Ranch sandwich combo with Dr. Pepper. =-) It wasnt everyone typical pre race meal, but I remember I PRed when I ate Subway the night before my RNR Vegas in 2009. So I just wanted to give it a try.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Race Day 3-20-11</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I was suppose to wake up at 2:30am so I would drive to Santa Monica to park there and take their shuttle to the start at the Dodger Stadium, but instead I woke up at 3:30am and I figured I would not make it to the 4:00am shuttle bus time, so I just drove straight to the Dodger Stadium and park there instead, figured I would just take the local bus back to the Stadium to get my car back after I finish. <br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">I arrived at the Dodger Stadium's parking lot around 5am, it was still pretty dark and cold with little sprinkling off and on, the lights from inside the Stadium were all light up, looks like there were a baseball game going on, but it wasnt. I took a little nap in my car before I made my way to the stadium and meet up with my Maniacs friends for the group picture ops. When I was about to go inside the stadium, I noticed alot of the runners were already inside the stadium but were not allowed on to the field like last year did, probably because of the rain, so most of them were just hanging out in their seats to stay away from the rain. I slowly walked from one side of the stadium to the other side of it since that's where our group was suppose to meet up. I could see some runners were lining up for the restrooms, some were stretching themselves on the floor, others just trying to stay warm until the race starts. Just before I was about to exit the stadium, my friends found me and I just hung out with them until the rest of the group show up.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">It was about 5:45am, I told my friends that I needed to go check my bag but I will return right after, so I made my way to the gear check area, which was a little further down outside the stadium, it was still dark outside but the light from outside the stadium helped a lot. I dropped my bag off and walked back over to meet back up with my group. By about 6:30am, a lot of us had finally arrived, we chatted up a little, took some pictures together and on our separate ways to our corrals getting ready for the race to starts at 7:25am.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here is our group right inside the stadium.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw9lHAnlUoDfO_twFTxVrpLa7CjCpWdT4bqzS5j0nh_tg5daHcncrSVszzhQvev5myHUS-ddbUlT8FR9YJPRk9ACFazYBZdj_VXHsxk1V59-ACizSkVOgmO-Yrzo72YKXOz4liLIJ5zL0/s1600/LAgroup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw9lHAnlUoDfO_twFTxVrpLa7CjCpWdT4bqzS5j0nh_tg5daHcncrSVszzhQvev5myHUS-ddbUlT8FR9YJPRk9ACFazYBZdj_VXHsxk1V59-ACizSkVOgmO-Yrzo72YKXOz4liLIJ5zL0/s400/LAgroup.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> being interviewed by Marathon Show Joe Taricani</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Km9kHUGQwGRycyfKCY82V5Z9rcO0TJ28ehDR7yQNYRAHyAxFg4EqLbAyzkW_KCWRyBUV4PDPreo98fYXqTOYoKDH8SfKixbm7WPWnyaVss3YXpRv29FyJMfmAFwWE8hoyBPhGr8JBsg/s1600/Interview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Km9kHUGQwGRycyfKCY82V5Z9rcO0TJ28ehDR7yQNYRAHyAxFg4EqLbAyzkW_KCWRyBUV4PDPreo98fYXqTOYoKDH8SfKixbm7WPWnyaVss3YXpRv29FyJMfmAFwWE8hoyBPhGr8JBsg/s400/Interview.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>I made my way to the Corral B since I signed up for their Sub 4 Corral, I always wanted to start early so I could start running without having to wait for a long time. In my seeded corral, it was more roomier, I have a lot of room to stretch out before the start, unlike other regular corrals where everyone was so close to each other that you have no room to move. I was able to watch the wheelchair division and the female Elites start before the male Elites and the rest of the us starts.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1HI_cqKvFyORQmFQdLyl_txMWdGqRmwOl43PRu6taSJBvBfY1EBM8W49G1zZrQ38lRcBiI11lmCXGhTCz5aKohzTayyNy4zmJ_Doe5qpIrGshuP1_MrCmuH9NgyUdBaquDAfZsr8na4/s1600/DSCN8099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1HI_cqKvFyORQmFQdLyl_txMWdGqRmwOl43PRu6taSJBvBfY1EBM8W49G1zZrQ38lRcBiI11lmCXGhTCz5aKohzTayyNy4zmJ_Doe5qpIrGshuP1_MrCmuH9NgyUdBaquDAfZsr8na4/s400/DSCN8099.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> the wheelchair division start</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp72KrmJ3XuaQdvJW1Eh5GAZFcQQIPSzEbwYGBI606tciDAhTPy6rWkpouohkh3IJXHfL8zJivn_w9vTHZH3YATra-Rr1KSPbVI0u6vhA_Ns_5qctC2JNPelJZsDTB-mwfOebLRDmS2DU/s1600/DSCN8120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp72KrmJ3XuaQdvJW1Eh5GAZFcQQIPSzEbwYGBI606tciDAhTPy6rWkpouohkh3IJXHfL8zJivn_w9vTHZH3YATra-Rr1KSPbVI0u6vhA_Ns_5qctC2JNPelJZsDTB-mwfOebLRDmS2DU/s400/DSCN8120.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
At about 7:45am, we finally started with a little delayed, the sky was cloudy, looks like there was a storm coming soon any minute.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Here is a pic right after the start, taken from LA Marathon FB page.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnGeGJCIpl_rLLOJ7zAa4sqd4WWhqF1takn1mHa1s0uoIDa_bajYF9ruJ3_wZAv7dAJWB5_9PuRxZ8XG9_m6u1H2TvXukge7I-ZTfVngV4hHmfIfP8_QovwuxxEBaK-JlzBvbFCpi8XM/s1600/LAMarathon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnGeGJCIpl_rLLOJ7zAa4sqd4WWhqF1takn1mHa1s0uoIDa_bajYF9ruJ3_wZAv7dAJWB5_9PuRxZ8XG9_m6u1H2TvXukge7I-ZTfVngV4hHmfIfP8_QovwuxxEBaK-JlzBvbFCpi8XM/s400/LAMarathon.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This year they changed the course a little bit, instead of the going around the stadium for 1 mile before exiting and heading down to Sunset Blvd, we ran straight toward the exit and headed down to Sunset Blvd immediately. After Mile 1, I could feel it started to drizzle from above, I was hoping that it would stay the same without any serious pouring rain, my arm warmers, my beanie and my gloves kept me warm the whole time. Then at Mile 2 we entered the famous Dragon Gate in Chinatown, this was the new addition to the course this year, but unlike the Chinatown in Chicago, they could use more spectators, I didnt feel the excitement as I did when I ran the Chicago Marathon in 2009, hopefully next year they will be ready for us.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Entering the Dragon Gate in Chinatown at Mile 2</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4VWvJzTRN8KkSEbh_e-QdRR4ZalWODKWXSCCy3YjFejFx_Mxw9LsQaWEnShWjHXTnNQFl1ZUcSNBwTJ1jOu_buXGmdv4lZNxaYEvQy4uqlpNZpLc027PVfFv9JzcMDjcHKiR6EuUieW4/s1600/DSCN8140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4VWvJzTRN8KkSEbh_e-QdRR4ZalWODKWXSCCy3YjFejFx_Mxw9LsQaWEnShWjHXTnNQFl1ZUcSNBwTJ1jOu_buXGmdv4lZNxaYEvQy4uqlpNZpLc027PVfFv9JzcMDjcHKiR6EuUieW4/s400/DSCN8140.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then at Mile 4 we had to ran up to this hill right by the Disney Hall, but the Tiko drummers kept us motivated with their beats, very encouraging, gotta love their drums!! Here is a little video of it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyFD7zRSepAVBoMi73kdou7lvGOoi0l5PIyCF0zQJaUnjsi4jGYb2_weyaLxe8zCvQ_nFdIHZ_rrrtQxK1W' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After 4 miles, I could feel the rain was starting to get a little heavier, just a little bit, my feet and socks were starting to get wet already, but that didnt stop me from running and having fun!! =-) Moments later I caught up with my friend Nadia, I recognized her outfit and her visor, so I ran up next to her and we chatted a little bit before I pulled back and let her go cuz she was in her 3:30 pace. At around Mile 8 we ran by the Echo Park Lake, I meet up with this other Maniac from Texas, he happened to ran the Texas Marathon on New Years Day this year, which I also ran, but I didnt remember seeing him there. We talked a little bit before I had to slow down a little and wished him good luck since he was going a little faster pace than me. I wasnt going for any PR, I was just out there trying to enjoy myself.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Then about Mile 9 we started to run on the Hollywood Blvd for about 3 miles, I love the Hollywood Blvd, there are just so much to see there, the Kodak Theater, Pantage Theater, Mann's Chinese Theater, Hard Rock Cafe, the Walk of Fame, etc..... I will never get bored running up and down that strip, it's always fun to get the chance to run down the Hollywood Blvd.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">At around Mile 14 on Sunset Blvd, I saw a Starbucks on the right side, I was feeling a little cold so I figured I would stopped by and get myself some hot chocolate!!! Hey why not?? Since I said I wasnt going for any PR, I might as well enjoy the race with a hot chocolate. =-) Glad I had $10 in my iFitness belt.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here is me infront of the Starbucks during the race.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRgOJBNJHIiJ9uX2h0624ykO6La6HMYKRGJL4PcXJ7WS63VgaXMIeQDCd9UZbA8RzirdWRqy3VzqdSBCD9GRezAXcSScKTIeVZD5t_6sYb_FXrsijWMAtZBx5AJeIxT9bebJWdLBNiQ7w/s1600/DSCN8160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRgOJBNJHIiJ9uX2h0624ykO6La6HMYKRGJL4PcXJ7WS63VgaXMIeQDCd9UZbA8RzirdWRqy3VzqdSBCD9GRezAXcSScKTIeVZD5t_6sYb_FXrsijWMAtZBx5AJeIxT9bebJWdLBNiQ7w/s400/DSCN8160.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I came out of the Starbucks I found another Maniac Raye, she is from Atlanta, I caught up to her with my hot chocolate still in my hand!!!! We ran together for a few miles, I told her that I couldnt keep up with the 3:50 pace group, she asked me if I still wanted to finish around 4 hours, I said I dont think I could make it, maybe 4:15 or 4:30. At one point the wind was blowing from one side to another, first from the left, then from the right, it was tough, but the rain still hasnt stopped, I was wet from head to toes, fortunately it didnt give me any blisters or anything that stop me from finishing the race.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then around Mile 19, my Half Fanatic friend Henry called out my name from his tent with his group, he was kind enough to offer me hot tea and oranges, they were a great help, I stayed inside their tent just to stay away from the rain a little bit before I headed back out there and continued the race, I was pretty much running and walking at that point.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then when we got to Rodeo Drive around Mile 20, I saw people were handing out the Coconut Water, I grabbed a cup and drank it down, it tasted pretty good, I dont normally drink coconut water, but at that time, it tasted amazing!! Then a moment later a lady was handing out oranges in a little ziplock bag, each had 2 little oranges in it, I took one of them and thanked her. What a wonderful spectator she was!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then at Mile 21, I was walking on the left side when I noticed another Maniac Lori from Vermont on the right side, I quickly made my way to the right and caught up to her, it was always nice to find a familiar face in the crowd to run with, we were both pacing each other for a few miles before I had to take a walking break while she contined on cuz she said she wont start run again if she stops.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then at about Mile 24, I felt a cramp on my right calves so I just had to take it easy and started to walk, it was STILL raining at that point, no surprise, sometimes when I start to run again the cramps just keep coming, so I just kept walking, I could see the curbs were flooded with rain so I tried to stay away from it as much as I can. Then after Mile 25, I started to run again and I didnt feel any cramping on my calves!! So I was able to run for half a mile before I had to walk again for a little bit. But once I saw the finish line ahead of me, I just put my head down and started running, but not sprinting, toward the finish line. I finished at <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">4:32.19</span></b>, a 12 mins faster than last year's, maybe the rain helped me run faster!! =-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Bumped into my friend Ben at the Finish Line.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4yo4DE_Q4qhmulXABPhyphenhyphen_zhQytNHcDhZYoY837bJdLpm-TLnaz6Jq-uUgasrCPhE8M7g0DUTvl8HuIP8U339vMXDq_PUAqvhLuBbXhSGV_q1J4MaogBD12Flp0YipmH51m5MwXpT3JvA/s1600/DSCN8170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4yo4DE_Q4qhmulXABPhyphenhyphen_zhQytNHcDhZYoY837bJdLpm-TLnaz6Jq-uUgasrCPhE8M7g0DUTvl8HuIP8U339vMXDq_PUAqvhLuBbXhSGV_q1J4MaogBD12Flp0YipmH51m5MwXpT3JvA/s400/DSCN8170.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">I still had to walk about a mile to pick up my bag afterward!!! Even with the mylar blanket, I still feel cold. When I went to the gear pick up, I noticed there werent ANY volunteers helping with the bags!!! All of the runners were helping themselves finding their our own bag!!! That's RIDICULUS!! We were like looking thru dumpster trying to find clothes!! I cant believe a huge marathon event like this cant afford the runners a safer place for their belongings. Even Chicago Marathon with 40,000 runners they have TENTS with runners' bag safely guarded, LA Marathon ONLY had 23,000 runners. What a shame LA!! I am a loyal LA Marathon fan and I really hope they will improve that issue next year.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">OK, now for some really FUN details about how I got back to the Dodgers Stadium to get my car back.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Since there wasnt any free shuttle offered back to the start, I had to rely on local transportation, which was the bus in this situation. I had to walk a few blocks to a bus stop in the rain JUST to take a free shuttle JUST to take us to a stop SO we could WALK a little more IN THE RAIN to take another bus which took me CLOSE to the Stadium, but I STILL have to walk A MILE back up to the Stadium's parking lot to get to my car back!! I was pretty much dead tired when I got to my car, I stayed there for awhile before I started to drive back home.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">After all this, I dont really LOVE LA anymore, well maybe just for that day, I just hope they will make some improvement next year.</span></div><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Next Race............................Bataan Death March, 3-27-2011</span></b></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-69989016093708310592011-03-23T15:12:00.000-07:002011-03-23T16:53:15.241-07:00Red Rock Canyon Marathon RecapThis is my <b style="background-color: white;">5th</b> marathon this year and <b>78th</b> overall.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6mw7ZtrPYcFgZ_eq8XYxu56h8WL83dfspWinZnJkLzOAIUXaLOxHjhCiVTCemPqrITPY9caYpy3GKA1iHKo0s9f9kWa0JSa6_PkGyIhO_9mFQ7eOhoe0uXzpwTZg_e9QAIfZgr-z13_8/s1600/199527_1610371661319_1297055692_31398954_734895_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6mw7ZtrPYcFgZ_eq8XYxu56h8WL83dfspWinZnJkLzOAIUXaLOxHjhCiVTCemPqrITPY9caYpy3GKA1iHKo0s9f9kWa0JSa6_PkGyIhO_9mFQ7eOhoe0uXzpwTZg_e9QAIfZgr-z13_8/s400/199527_1610371661319_1297055692_31398954_734895_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">This one is one of the Calico Racing Series, if you complete 4 of their races in 12 months, you will receive a SLAM, which is a ceramic plaque in a shape of Nevada with all the name of the races you have completed hand printed on it. So far I have completed 2 events, the ET Full Moon Marathon and this one, so I will need 2 more events to get my SLAM.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Since this race was on a Saturday and not too far from Vegas, I was able to still work Friday night till 10pm, then took a couple of hours of sleep and started to drive to Vegas in the middle of the night. I left my house around midnight and got to the Red Rock Casino at around 4:30am to take their shuttle to the start. They said the last bus leaves at 5:25am so I made sure I got there on time. The bus ride to the start was bout around half an hour, so it was a short ride.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Once we arrived, I made my way to the pick up my bib, shirt and timing chip, since this one does not offer the D-tag. It was really cold in the morning, I would say around between 40's to 50's, I only have a short sleeves shirt, arm warms and gloves cuz I didnt want to wear too much on me cuz it might get warmer later on during the day.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Race started at 6am , the view from where we started was amazing beautiful, I did this same race last year but they had a different starting point from last year because I heard that they want to switch it every year since it's a out and back course, so the location that we started this time was actually around Mile 14 or so from last year's. Below are the pictures of these beautiful scenic course at Red Rock Canyon.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">A little group pic before the start</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKEkF6svdJTWVOG40U4lcxmxgLD1BbXD0AoaOZX2jM7DpMFT0JOe9E640BlllqSIrsZQtFTayj8Rmz3Zio8Jp_tDS_8jzHnvx5FSvkfeiAL8qa8g6AgH6-gR16d4SbArzcb-ws6s4HUm0/s1600/DSCN2210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKEkF6svdJTWVOG40U4lcxmxgLD1BbXD0AoaOZX2jM7DpMFT0JOe9E640BlllqSIrsZQtFTayj8Rmz3Zio8Jp_tDS_8jzHnvx5FSvkfeiAL8qa8g6AgH6-gR16d4SbArzcb-ws6s4HUm0/s400/DSCN2210.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A quick shot at the start</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhk1vj3osivZDT6-5w3-wbG7vOOmkFcPOujCHK1CbmZXeydOf0jiszR0SYuVimWof2n5XaRQ_6DbQkgUapXfUP-ZKmtN_dXGmmGqIzcTBgZ0Wp9d82hFpXvp5ahvjxx59iftG7JcvfEY/s1600/DSCN2214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhk1vj3osivZDT6-5w3-wbG7vOOmkFcPOujCHK1CbmZXeydOf0jiszR0SYuVimWof2n5XaRQ_6DbQkgUapXfUP-ZKmtN_dXGmmGqIzcTBgZ0Wp9d82hFpXvp5ahvjxx59iftG7JcvfEY/s400/DSCN2214.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Early in the morning, nice and cold, my face was freezing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOB9x7I5aqA2aE2m1Wi5rOxlxuLNZEl0FquNg8Be_eFjHv3SwfN4WwQrSYaHC8SQsCjE16j4Jgjc2fKDI3-xmj8T_PA6teTLc0vvROQ0FLrBfeHVHlIo8z9kPfkv_wCokhWDEQd-51yaA/s1600/DSCN2220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOB9x7I5aqA2aE2m1Wi5rOxlxuLNZEl0FquNg8Be_eFjHv3SwfN4WwQrSYaHC8SQsCjE16j4Jgjc2fKDI3-xmj8T_PA6teTLc0vvROQ0FLrBfeHVHlIo8z9kPfkv_wCokhWDEQd-51yaA/s400/DSCN2220.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was around Mile 3 that we had to run a little out and back section on this dirt road before we got back on the main road.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_nxqqh47fznGV1W3x2Atw-Y1QScNZfoXx8RtGo9G3vSPL4ncEhAgFScNpjSZTyNSIqyj0VyrVORCvQi3_r8bQv6UnBYJCteveZa9XQoySTKiups6VplvEsPbz0vxNFnsvY6zQBvI7Bws/s1600/DSCN2223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_nxqqh47fznGV1W3x2Atw-Y1QScNZfoXx8RtGo9G3vSPL4ncEhAgFScNpjSZTyNSIqyj0VyrVORCvQi3_r8bQv6UnBYJCteveZa9XQoySTKiups6VplvEsPbz0vxNFnsvY6zQBvI7Bws/s400/DSCN2223.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrJVgyDugRQVCnlE83-e3j_Mqcuny4SODd3fCzhBMzCybBh_1gxckqoU_DEe9GVXNb6tT_V5FF4XHEHIpDAh3h01HGDH7IQjJXoxud-RJD1KhZiU5ZNJ6jeVMfN81u77yPCxzjh-Jd0Bs/s1600/DSCN2234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrJVgyDugRQVCnlE83-e3j_Mqcuny4SODd3fCzhBMzCybBh_1gxckqoU_DEe9GVXNb6tT_V5FF4XHEHIpDAh3h01HGDH7IQjJXoxud-RJD1KhZiU5ZNJ6jeVMfN81u77yPCxzjh-Jd0Bs/s400/DSCN2234.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV1F5o-G-gAHzM8Nev3-xkycOdefuDHVly1Zj811TQRpQ4wVOt-9fGsNH4DsSHQjasU-N-iJOVIAEziQ8T354CmFo6XYnor8x8AiRFYUpr9rcM_BJjEtw2sdD7GA4GGpW0U1J5awusp20/s1600/DSCN2240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV1F5o-G-gAHzM8Nev3-xkycOdefuDHVly1Zj811TQRpQ4wVOt-9fGsNH4DsSHQjasU-N-iJOVIAEziQ8T354CmFo6XYnor8x8AiRFYUpr9rcM_BJjEtw2sdD7GA4GGpW0U1J5awusp20/s400/DSCN2240.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When I got to Mile 13 at the Visitor Center, I had to run a loop back to this spot before I could run back to the start..</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzS8gU3CS9NQlq0EES0zCudJyaFZ310EX6E4pNRjfJdESmjQWBspYEDd0v2Bx6ceQL4I87Esa-Y7SliYApjFtUlnhxI1h50V7e2a0tSFr9xW8rOhNuyjN8yKBTJ8dhVNQyR72LC6xVu7A/s1600/DSCN2247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzS8gU3CS9NQlq0EES0zCudJyaFZ310EX6E4pNRjfJdESmjQWBspYEDd0v2Bx6ceQL4I87Esa-Y7SliYApjFtUlnhxI1h50V7e2a0tSFr9xW8rOhNuyjN8yKBTJ8dhVNQyR72LC6xVu7A/s400/DSCN2247.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Going back up this long stretch of hill was sure not fun, but sure was a pretty sight.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieaITdagjGaZhWoNsNGaeXH_Ib85EaM6Na1eWXKPPyIUKJKOsaSjc46P6tsZfwwsLl0iAmamz2S9O8fRjasroZlNdME4ZXKmmUMK0mjKNtEXjfZ3DYVIwgZykn5PiYJ_8OEyzwCpr_U5M/s1600/DSCN2276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieaITdagjGaZhWoNsNGaeXH_Ib85EaM6Na1eWXKPPyIUKJKOsaSjc46P6tsZfwwsLl0iAmamz2S9O8fRjasroZlNdME4ZXKmmUMK0mjKNtEXjfZ3DYVIwgZykn5PiYJ_8OEyzwCpr_U5M/s400/DSCN2276.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Beautiful Red Rock Canyon background.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyGN8sc5rz1-0PgV8-U3nvDCYsGuSNZ3qNCheS9Re3xdDLMiASeik1PoC1C-9JIWlMK5KG12uDy4cujOsbMw7v16vKIOJWwAtwf7cXF614Jve957FwXey_hUsPt1-M7wiL5jsLAREl0OI/s1600/DSCN2271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyGN8sc5rz1-0PgV8-U3nvDCYsGuSNZ3qNCheS9Re3xdDLMiASeik1PoC1C-9JIWlMK5KG12uDy4cujOsbMw7v16vKIOJWwAtwf7cXF614Jve957FwXey_hUsPt1-M7wiL5jsLAREl0OI/s400/DSCN2271.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is another shot of the beautiful mountain after Mile 17</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VLHmOjVDQvwprMCxTDuG31hP9O9bPITtBTtIrhZczpUNpvW7S9EWYbddy2ihYriYiCFG9JKYPXRaBmsUO13qB8hT0Phv8wTrTBRLQXokecPflRDeXhEkXp_FQO8LBHKBxs42tXPwBgM/s1600/DSCN2286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VLHmOjVDQvwprMCxTDuG31hP9O9bPITtBTtIrhZczpUNpvW7S9EWYbddy2ihYriYiCFG9JKYPXRaBmsUO13qB8hT0Phv8wTrTBRLQXokecPflRDeXhEkXp_FQO8LBHKBxs42tXPwBgM/s400/DSCN2286.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Two of my favorite volunteers Bobbi and Javier were helping out one of the aid stations on the course.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHGJecqdvqVm2Kk-BRR8qjhZh-P6Uy-GlmhA3Bl9N3R4XclCOoQs8apIJpS7a4LnRxkkxEcHOCT85DowQAE-l289VoBBWtIn_c_Baj2CJnoRHzRICG1OOC9YAMIPAoloXyO2c3Vg8ztU/s1600/DSCN2295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHGJecqdvqVm2Kk-BRR8qjhZh-P6Uy-GlmhA3Bl9N3R4XclCOoQs8apIJpS7a4LnRxkkxEcHOCT85DowQAE-l289VoBBWtIn_c_Baj2CJnoRHzRICG1OOC9YAMIPAoloXyO2c3Vg8ztU/s400/DSCN2295.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is a little clip of me running this beautiful course huffing and puffing. =-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">h<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz6jdo6ACwGuH2DceHshjFyQYiEhdo3D9egOr_M55CVSgUs2THNYo8_4swtPewAfEj8LA86sy6cvafvKZ41' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was after Mile 20, I like how the curvy road that I had to run up to.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-4kImjLzA3FCptmzR3Z3loTLA4Jgv-1CBj1YdUNDfjj-GgIG1bPI0PwWSFEAUWUl867OXFn4R4tykFBrqFL0nHOtJJKiVmkMzsZ9YXnF5rkM4Pn-7oCGPIbJuHq10TeK9H1Y7DgpqzA/s1600/DSCN2299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-4kImjLzA3FCptmzR3Z3loTLA4Jgv-1CBj1YdUNDfjj-GgIG1bPI0PwWSFEAUWUl867OXFn4R4tykFBrqFL0nHOtJJKiVmkMzsZ9YXnF5rkM4Pn-7oCGPIbJuHq10TeK9H1Y7DgpqzA/s400/DSCN2299.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mile 25, one more mile to go!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFMrBhEOpwt8ccNmS8y6GqpIrfnH16COBIQFJZgNUl-7HWXFn_bc1rj4VdjGhUp7W_ANY_a8AmBgrsVNHAGV9t0C3fBzkeSwwuzDqPL6ll3TfYirkNobdxw7NV8_LP2z6790UscEhK1hU/s1600/DSCN2308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFMrBhEOpwt8ccNmS8y6GqpIrfnH16COBIQFJZgNUl-7HWXFn_bc1rj4VdjGhUp7W_ANY_a8AmBgrsVNHAGV9t0C3fBzkeSwwuzDqPL6ll3TfYirkNobdxw7NV8_LP2z6790UscEhK1hU/s400/DSCN2308.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I finished in <b>4:56.24</b>, a very tough BUT very beautiful scenic course no doubt, would love to run this again next year!!! A group pic at the finish line.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSuSu8P0-jRthBItHW97RoLrogdM6XxIzjdfZCA_95s2GnuP7I-GQYtX7ghkVbUn3PDoYeNaQGyNr7mn63yHFf22fPnDZO9ti6Rzj5wlS7lXO33MqLe51RrosQEJ9Fr35302WJqdj0cdE/s1600/DSCN2317.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSuSu8P0-jRthBItHW97RoLrogdM6XxIzjdfZCA_95s2GnuP7I-GQYtX7ghkVbUn3PDoYeNaQGyNr7mn63yHFf22fPnDZO9ti6Rzj5wlS7lXO33MqLe51RrosQEJ9Fr35302WJqdj0cdE/s400/DSCN2317.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was my post race meal that they offered</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpvltU-yE1uqj8vbjipkcU1clUOT65Xgko2gK0yqxTvYVDfpQlbu1Z-jqijST99ZisZN5a6FBO3aLoXpW9vp8dYqEYjtQYaRn-AU-2XPY2MvI8pPmi3w70QXbKqWzHoHuMaWfLuy3VxIM/s1600/DSCN2311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpvltU-yE1uqj8vbjipkcU1clUOT65Xgko2gK0yqxTvYVDfpQlbu1Z-jqijST99ZisZN5a6FBO3aLoXpW9vp8dYqEYjtQYaRn-AU-2XPY2MvI8pPmi3w70QXbKqWzHoHuMaWfLuy3VxIM/s400/DSCN2311.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Trying to have some fun with the photographer</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitilOR1VncjmwpYhdl827b6eBosbM2Z-YUkmowOCY7dHl0Y9hfoySOx8Fe_tbTqIodDIp0Bho94ZdYmIU6egzP7rN7Kh9s_op5xsLQjKs_Qd9RZh3GVxDVq-lRNVygrG_T5Rff408OZhA/s1600/redrock11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitilOR1VncjmwpYhdl827b6eBosbM2Z-YUkmowOCY7dHl0Y9hfoySOx8Fe_tbTqIodDIp0Bho94ZdYmIU6egzP7rN7Kh9s_op5xsLQjKs_Qd9RZh3GVxDVq-lRNVygrG_T5Rff408OZhA/s400/redrock11.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Overall I really like this course, although it's a PR course, it's definately one of those courses that you just wanted to enjoy the scenery rather than finish the race as fast as you can. I will run again next year.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Next Race.......................L.A. Marathon, 3-20-201</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">1</span></b></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-43390650014978522692011-03-10T14:59:00.000-08:002011-03-10T14:59:42.943-08:0010th Annual Mercedes Marathon RecapThis is my<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4th</span></span> marathon this year and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">77th</span> overall<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJme4xeB0rNUasuymJa1RusU6gICCW4SQ-EaUW2dXIxqjfG_6WLKXaa2e9SAmRZCRYfRjgbTn6D6qwNOyrhe24LVuD8XGDOzObfhDhaBGUAKjUVSt9EF7dSfS1Q6xrMnRPHpYiDFkmds/s1600/DSCN2047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJme4xeB0rNUasuymJa1RusU6gICCW4SQ-EaUW2dXIxqjfG_6WLKXaa2e9SAmRZCRYfRjgbTn6D6qwNOyrhe24LVuD8XGDOzObfhDhaBGUAKjUVSt9EF7dSfS1Q6xrMnRPHpYiDFkmds/s400/DSCN2047.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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OK, I think I am way overdue to post this race report, I have another one to write after this one, so I better hurry up or I will have another one piling up waiting for me to report.<br />
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I didnt plan to run the Mercedes Marathon toward the end of last year, I was planning to run the Donna's Marathon in FL, which lands on the same day as Mercedes Marathon, but I wasnt so sure that I wanted to run that one cuz I noticed their medal isnt too impressive, although all the money from the registration goes toward the breast cancer research, so it was all for good cause. But I still wasnt completely sold. So I went to look for another race on the date and I found Mercedes Marathon, which happened to be their 10th Anniversary, plus their medal looks like the Mercedes logo, and since I dont have the state Alabama to complete my 50 States, I signed up for that race right away.<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><u>Thursday - 2-10-11</u></span></b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKtSTXfuMixYm27vUQhw5HjHiWTWR0UuNduiLL55XaLmlLPx4BB2MdYwWUp4rEgEejzfZwCpyX6yBBoWg4GIUpgCs_RL7x1qxaU25QHGIkshQsOm641rY5uRk5j5V5mUdnnZWdBD9-As0/s1600/IMG_7950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKtSTXfuMixYm27vUQhw5HjHiWTWR0UuNduiLL55XaLmlLPx4BB2MdYwWUp4rEgEejzfZwCpyX6yBBoWg4GIUpgCs_RL7x1qxaU25QHGIkshQsOm641rY5uRk5j5V5mUdnnZWdBD9-As0/s400/IMG_7950.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was the place I stayed at</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I arrived at Birmingham Airport, AL around 7:30pm, picked up my rental car, and headed straight to my hotel. It was used to be a apartment complex but they turned into a hotel property, so all the rooms are pretty spacious with kitchen, microwave and frig, although the furnitures are kind of old, that's fine with me. I stayed in my room for the night to watched the LAKERS vs Celtics game, what a great game!!<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><u>Friday - 2-11-11</u></span></b><br />
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I decided to take a trip down to New Orlean, which was about 5 hours drive from Birmingham, I have been to New Orlean before last year for the RNR New Orlean, had a lot of fun there so I just wanted to go there again to revisit. I didnt mind the 5 hours drive because that's a lot shorter than driving from CA!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0r2pNg5Mn8ZrwD0DpkrteV77v5RhH8vV3AjYnsOuNowObs4d4EPvIhhL-yhhNzszx4jikK-_9JBVWNDwOyfTpr1xZWl8pGJl_dZW1BIEjgPzzpoI9awCMi2BMsefdwJFE5NiQ0Rl57cQ/s1600/IMG_7916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0r2pNg5Mn8ZrwD0DpkrteV77v5RhH8vV3AjYnsOuNowObs4d4EPvIhhL-yhhNzszx4jikK-_9JBVWNDwOyfTpr1xZWl8pGJl_dZW1BIEjgPzzpoI9awCMi2BMsefdwJFE5NiQ0Rl57cQ/s320/IMG_7916.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Passing thru the state MS on my way to New Orleans</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I stopped by the RNR New Orlean Expo at the convention center after 5 hrs drive, since the race was on the same day as Mercedes Marathon, I was able to pick up some GUs and a pair of neon green gloves for my race on sunday. The expo was pretty small, I finished it in less than an hour. So I spent the rest of the day and night hanging around Boubon St and the areas around it. I did not leave New Orlean until like 5am in the morning!!! I had an awesome and tiring night in New Orleans.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4XrsYa74AiNFDsw3nidJ4IjjOqvuh9MP7QxmWJbv6Yx8VeF9T2UwPq-8n0IUI2PO5toeUhthXtGfkJmpBDCuqlEhULTfMEY8zXkx3mCKwXkm8r9pSQE0jREDzgy4MZc2oFYae_Rtu4MI/s1600/DSCN1889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4XrsYa74AiNFDsw3nidJ4IjjOqvuh9MP7QxmWJbv6Yx8VeF9T2UwPq-8n0IUI2PO5toeUhthXtGfkJmpBDCuqlEhULTfMEY8zXkx3mCKwXkm8r9pSQE0jREDzgy4MZc2oFYae_Rtu4MI/s400/DSCN1889.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At the RNR New Orlean Expo</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6_g2CcoABPsAAVGoqtVrem7zF2M3c3g7PcsMrEjvCY_uw0npvyTMtZaOYyLSAWJbOUdYNZKgIeXUOEZ4uRJff9-Apl7IegvmZok1SUQ47Qj-i0yciPCiWwomUPmylz2hEKdoWDicYpg/s1600/DSCN1908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6_g2CcoABPsAAVGoqtVrem7zF2M3c3g7PcsMrEjvCY_uw0npvyTMtZaOYyLSAWJbOUdYNZKgIeXUOEZ4uRJff9-Apl7IegvmZok1SUQ47Qj-i0yciPCiWwomUPmylz2hEKdoWDicYpg/s400/DSCN1908.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of the BEST chicken cheese steak on Bourbon St.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcWF8CiRs37ScI6N3H8cRh8eeaDFsJV4DjT8FErbjf1AIolDK2ekZ54TRffDp_WXNK_1O49uoz1NcUYPC_hGo50ZktI-AexPvypi9AcEz6hcgJGHcXr8RuR_vzOpd0mF3uyv8Gv0AlOIQ/s1600/DSCN1906.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcWF8CiRs37ScI6N3H8cRh8eeaDFsJV4DjT8FErbjf1AIolDK2ekZ54TRffDp_WXNK_1O49uoz1NcUYPC_hGo50ZktI-AexPvypi9AcEz6hcgJGHcXr8RuR_vzOpd0mF3uyv8Gv0AlOIQ/s400/DSCN1906.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">View of the Bourbon St. from the balcony of Cat's Meow</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><u>Saturday - 2-12-11</u></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After driving 5 hours back from New Orleans at 5am, I finally got back to my room, got rested, showered, then heading back out for the Mercedes Marathon Expo. This one was even smaller than, it was inside the auditorium in downtown Birmingham, but the good thing was they were giving out free gloves!!! I was in and out in about 15 mins, then I saw there were kids selling Girl's Scout Cookies, so I HAD to buy 2 boxes!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2x5ixXo19OsqZ_2Cxk2k27dSl4HRm4zoZFqIPLMsRYFER3dtOvUve4_2pKzMVWUkk3YNQz-PhJr_yigrExnOUJjGNeX1XUup5aNXRVm-UFAdbF1wIn4Hwh0cEXUoGyt-Bw__Lerx7Qk/s1600/DSCN1912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2x5ixXo19OsqZ_2Cxk2k27dSl4HRm4zoZFqIPLMsRYFER3dtOvUve4_2pKzMVWUkk3YNQz-PhJr_yigrExnOUJjGNeX1XUup5aNXRVm-UFAdbF1wIn4Hwh0cEXUoGyt-Bw__Lerx7Qk/s400/DSCN1912.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><u>Pre-Race Dinner</u></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A fellow Maniac Phil who was organize the dinner meet up at this little pizza joint called Rocky's nearby, inside you can see a wall filled with 8x10 of different boxers, I am not much of a boxing fan but I think that was very neat.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZxVWSJV6HYebUq5gCNw4gj0JH22rAwkl2Ic6XOrMofkPX2aoE_Xw3CMrQyxkwMEEh_p8s_ka9QI7_q_HiivY-59CdXh1KEoHHWtqVNTBQqNIwlCWpLCm7z14QNlNsSSLqW05cBiN_Q5Y/s1600/DSCN1920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZxVWSJV6HYebUq5gCNw4gj0JH22rAwkl2Ic6XOrMofkPX2aoE_Xw3CMrQyxkwMEEh_p8s_ka9QI7_q_HiivY-59CdXh1KEoHHWtqVNTBQqNIwlCWpLCm7z14QNlNsSSLqW05cBiN_Q5Y/s400/DSCN1920.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There were about 20 of us made it to the dinner at Rocky's</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE-HJTquqsh7eWi-sNEOg9WckBCIAz3_UIqHvSMVno6QvNzWXiXn8srP35TuAmFXLge-15lpXhblQ3XuMxApUnNi_E2twnx2j8wONt55eaqEJ2coxo79y8FxH7E52xksPuBZBDSIOGT_s/s1600/DSCN1918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE-HJTquqsh7eWi-sNEOg9WckBCIAz3_UIqHvSMVno6QvNzWXiXn8srP35TuAmFXLge-15lpXhblQ3XuMxApUnNi_E2twnx2j8wONt55eaqEJ2coxo79y8FxH7E52xksPuBZBDSIOGT_s/s400/DSCN1918.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was my carbo load meal, Chicken Fettucini Alfredo, doesnt look like much but that's enough for me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHFe5hO9h4QVyvGiolKhPKCiL9QhCYbM_Sb9B6lxNq2fJARtzy1sczmH1x-kvMYNMIY6lEl6jkPBOOJLzsBwdZu_r6T71m-mQIZZE2aIH7x4DNLyJIyhVb_Mquh-GBBnS7VlW2LMJJXT8/s1600/IMG_7947.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHFe5hO9h4QVyvGiolKhPKCiL9QhCYbM_Sb9B6lxNq2fJARtzy1sczmH1x-kvMYNMIY6lEl6jkPBOOJLzsBwdZu_r6T71m-mQIZZE2aIH7x4DNLyJIyhVb_Mquh-GBBnS7VlW2LMJJXT8/s400/IMG_7947.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Got everything lay out for the race in the morning.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><b><u>Race Day</u></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Got up like around 4:30am, drove to the designated parking lot around 5am, it was a bit cold early in the morning, like around 40s to 50s, I hung around in my car for awhile before I headed to the start area, I didnt want to check any bag since I parked rather close, I could just walk back and change after I finished, so I just wore my long sleeves from my Surf City Marathon over my Maniac singlet, plus my neon green gloves, and my iFitness belt, and I was ready to go.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The race started at 7:03am, dont know why the extra 3mins, kind of interesting. The Full, the Half, AND the Relay started at the same time so it was kind of congested during the first 3 miles or so, then after that it got thin out a little bit so I was able to find my comfortable pace. I made sure I eat my GU every hour because I did the same thing at RNR New Orleans last year and I PRed, so I want to do the same thing again. I followed the 4:00 pace group for a few miles, but decide to go a little faster and went out my own pace. The course was a double loop course, so we had to run the same course twice, which was kind of fun because you know what to expect the 2nd time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was still pretty chilly in the morning, I kept my long sleeves the whole time, then around Mile 8, there was this nice long downhill, so I picked up my pace just a little bit. Then at Mile 12 mark, there were these nice people having their own BEER station on the sideline, I didnt take any of them, yet, but on my 2nd loop, I will!! =-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimeUmtcDFowZB1b4xwpYVYmGkVvWh01DIDeubh-PDEoMISAHOCxw1xOlzvJibD0nmHFXQbaQYQ_8GoW7WAU8lGtqy0YacQUI5Lau9vf9fVHrCkwKBGMQ-RuW2NNl9DERRuLRgC4sycHvY/s1600/DSCN1975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimeUmtcDFowZB1b4xwpYVYmGkVvWh01DIDeubh-PDEoMISAHOCxw1xOlzvJibD0nmHFXQbaQYQ_8GoW7WAU8lGtqy0YacQUI5Lau9vf9fVHrCkwKBGMQ-RuW2NNl9DERRuLRgC4sycHvY/s400/DSCN1975.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Beer station at Mile 12/25 mark!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I finished the 1 loop in around 1:55, so all I had to do was to do the same loop over again and I could maybe PR!! My last PR was 3:55.45 at the RNR New Orleans, it was my 60th marathon so it was a great way to celebrate my race with a new PR.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I tried to run close to the curb as possible, trying to run the tangent of the course so I could "cut" the course legally. I eat my GUs every top of the hour and I felt really good. Then after Mile 20, I finished around 2:55, I knew I could PR IF I could maintain a 10min pace for the next 10k. I just took it one mile at a time and continued to run. Then after Mile 23, I only had 33 mins to finished the last 3.2 miles, then I knew I had a good chance to PR. Then at Mile 25 marker, I saw the clock reads 3:40, then I KNEW I will PR, so I stopped at Mile 25 marker and took a pic next to it, plus I took one of the beer that they were serving cuz I want to celebrate my PR early. =-) I crossed the finished line at <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">3:50.55!!</span> A 5 mins PR!!!!</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISmf5PnADts0tnHDbIKqUKcKr80qsddBhxszuMe-JuioQrBXPg7FuecoRKyTOXe_6bHlnBLePFVJU1rfxy8r1GfhQ4mtyn2vx7erYrVIJorTwym1xb0RfyqMiQ3qXlRvDsZNBTdff-ww/s1600/RSCN2039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISmf5PnADts0tnHDbIKqUKcKr80qsddBhxszuMe-JuioQrBXPg7FuecoRKyTOXe_6bHlnBLePFVJU1rfxy8r1GfhQ4mtyn2vx7erYrVIJorTwym1xb0RfyqMiQ3qXlRvDsZNBTdff-ww/s400/RSCN2039.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One More Mile till PR!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISmf5PnADts0tnHDbIKqUKcKr80qsddBhxszuMe-JuioQrBXPg7FuecoRKyTOXe_6bHlnBLePFVJU1rfxy8r1GfhQ4mtyn2vx7erYrVIJorTwym1xb0RfyqMiQ3qXlRvDsZNBTdff-ww/s1600/RSCN2039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFMZwB9EmYnxyb__gyexfoSnxQhwbxop0SIfL04dHSOdRdUOAB3omngAqZMj3jnh4bf_3TPOuV4as129iYtCJdsNRI8V3ubKsgDYNaNXMb3KWgD5hFzYKJ2gTuvrny0o1AvO5e-dYBHqs/s1600/184596_1588254868413_1297055692_31363468_7414185_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFMZwB9EmYnxyb__gyexfoSnxQhwbxop0SIfL04dHSOdRdUOAB3omngAqZMj3jnh4bf_3TPOuV4as129iYtCJdsNRI8V3ubKsgDYNaNXMb3KWgD5hFzYKJ2gTuvrny0o1AvO5e-dYBHqs/s400/184596_1588254868413_1297055692_31363468_7414185_n.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2g7IdP0aBMfss9zKp6ir8H7DKJfTTh3lfPlouPnSO1FCrKv180RO3etStsth-5O5g7dretUCzIZewvWjfJpma3sStqPQkF1lISIhFnmJR1dQn_QSd5OD7aQbXIp5R15Z_GNEQU7doa40/s1600/DSCN2034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2g7IdP0aBMfss9zKp6ir8H7DKJfTTh3lfPlouPnSO1FCrKv180RO3etStsth-5O5g7dretUCzIZewvWjfJpma3sStqPQkF1lISIhFnmJR1dQn_QSd5OD7aQbXIp5R15Z_GNEQU7doa40/s400/DSCN2034.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Celebrate my PR with my beer inside the auditorium after the race</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here are my splits:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 1 -<b> 8:58 </b>Mile 14<b> - 8:45</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 2<b> - 8:42 </b>Mile 15<b> - 8:38</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 3<b> - 8:21 </b>Mile 16<b> - 8:35</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 4<b> - 8:32 </b>Mile 17<b> - 8:33</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 5<b> - 8:45 </b>Mile 18<b> - 8:47</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 6<b> - 8:40 </b>Mile 19<b> - 8:39</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 7 <b>- 8:46 </b>Mile 20<b> - 10:14</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 8<b> - 8:41 </b>Mile 21<b> - 9:38</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 9<b> - 8:21 </b>Mile 22<b> - 8:53</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 10<b>- 8:46 </b>Mile 23<b> - 9:31</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile11<b> - 8:30 </b>Mile 24<b> - 9:20</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile12<b> - 8:40 </b>Mile 25<b> - 9:42</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile13<b> - 8:20 </b>Mile 26<b> - 8:46</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Overall I like this marathon just because I got a new PR!!! The voluntteers were awesome!! Post race activities were fun, FREE beer and sandwich inside the Auditorium, plus free massage. The medal looks really cool!! If I live close I would run this every year!!.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Next Race................Red Rock Canyon Marathon 3-5-2011</span></b></i></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-41958435129268078582011-02-16T12:57:00.000-08:002011-02-16T12:57:35.312-08:00Surf City Marathon RecapThis is <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">3rd</span></b> marathon this year and <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">76th</span></b> marathon overall<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQQo7cleA-twvccYrj10ILlIfpf8yy9v7OA1AYebmxhZcIvPRvT_g1No1IpyfWQYVjF29qpmV0ZjBObMqYxb8AFIvT4n6sGGBD7mLRjMqrRFqkPdvD5V-zJAArqN0caqkZN4aU3Xsu8w/s1600/DSCN1825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQQo7cleA-twvccYrj10ILlIfpf8yy9v7OA1AYebmxhZcIvPRvT_g1No1IpyfWQYVjF29qpmV0ZjBObMqYxb8AFIvT4n6sGGBD7mLRjMqrRFqkPdvD5V-zJAArqN0caqkZN4aU3Xsu8w/s400/DSCN1825.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Surf City Marathon was held only 15 mins away from where I live, but this was only my second time doing this marathon, the last time I ran this marathon was back in 2007 when they were named Pacific Shoreline Marathon, but they had a different course back then, so basicly this was my first time running the Surf City Marathon. The surfboard medal looks way too cool to pass up. =-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">The Expo</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I went to the Expo on Saturday afterwork because I couldnt make it on Friday since they open at 3pm, had they opened earlier I would have gone there instead because I worked afternoon hours. I was having hard time finding parking spot since there were just too many people going to the expo at the same time. When I finally found a place to park and walked to the expo, it was already 4:30pm and the expo closes at 5pm. The good thing about going to the expo late was there wasnt very long line going into the expo since I have seen a huge line just too long ago.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I quickly went to pick up my bib, my long sleeve shirt and my free Surf City tote bag, which looks really cool. The expo was pretty small, it was in a parking lot right next to the beach, so I was done within half an hour.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Pre-Race Dinner</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">My friend Stephanie had organized a dinner party at 5:30pm at the Bucca di Beppo in Huntington Beach, which was only a few miles from the expo. We had like around 24 of us so we had 2 separate tables. Bucca di Beppo always have fantastic food, I always love eating there.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Race Day</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I woke up at 4am and left my house by 4:30am, drove to the parking lot by 5am, race starts at 6:30am so I got plenty of time to get some last min rest in my car. Our Maniacs get together for a photo shoot was scheduled at 5:30am, it was great seeing all the Maniacs together, I always enjoy meeting new Maniacs at races.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjar6DetwdK2jZudnPdl2ar5OTCqFshBIN55BniyuLPu_NmlPHQW2pCBpx6DkuBOuJ8T7UM9bKFU23UwTxHp_KHi6tgC-mEXOdHqLmWHIykSJu8qmgzvTpr0OWOELji5kfXO06DwfXhH_c/s1600/171309_1799462796343_1532973685_31804649_8073075_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjar6DetwdK2jZudnPdl2ar5OTCqFshBIN55BniyuLPu_NmlPHQW2pCBpx6DkuBOuJ8T7UM9bKFU23UwTxHp_KHi6tgC-mEXOdHqLmWHIykSJu8qmgzvTpr0OWOELji5kfXO06DwfXhH_c/s400/171309_1799462796343_1532973685_31804649_8073075_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">One of my favorite Maniac is Joe "Marathon Show" Taricani, he is the host of his internet radio show "The Marathon Show <a href="http://www.themarathonshow.com/">http://www.themarathonshow.com/ </a>he interview runners before, during and after the race, lots of energy!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then an another Maniac who also has LOTS of energy is the one and only, Endophine Dude. He always wearing his cape whenever he does his races.<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/I-Am-Endorphin-Dude/146353102063414?v=wall">http://www.facebook.com/pages/I-Am-Endorphin-Dude/146353102063414?v=wall</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The race started at 6:30am, I was starting pretty close to the front cuz I wanted to start early and on my way, the weather was pretty nice and cool with foggy sky, perfect running weather. I was on my comfortable pace right from the start, BUT I did not have my Garmin with me cuz I couldnt find my charger!!! So I was hoping to follow a pace group and just go from there. Fortunately I found a 4:00 pace group within 2 miles, my goal was to just hang on with them for as long as I could!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The first 2 miles was running on the northbound on Pacific Coast Highway(PCH), then we made a right turn and heading toward the Huntington Beach Central Park, which was a very nice quiet park with a huge lake, I cant believe I have never ran thru there even though I live so close by. I was still running comfortable with the pace group and was able to chat a little when I caught up with my friend Christy. We came back out on PCH after Mile 9 for 3 miles before we made a turnaround and started running on the southbound on the PCH for another 3 miles, the weather was still breezy and foggy, couldnt have asked for a better weather condition to run. Then after Mile 15 just before we had to make a left turn to run on the bike path along the beach, I felt my left hamstring started to tighten, so I had to pulled aside and stretched a little. After that I wasnt able to keep up with the 4:00 pace group as I began to slow down. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The next 5 miles on the bike path wasnt a lot of fun cuz I had to stop and stretch every once in a while. I tried to followed the 4:15 group but I couldnt hang out for long. Then at Mile 20 we had to make another turnaround for 5 miles, I saw a lot of my running friends on my way back and I always say hi to them as they pass by. Then at Mile 22, my friend Casey caught to me, so I decided to start running again and see how long I could hang on, after Mile 23 the 4:20 pace group caught up to us so we began to follow him, I was surprised that I was able to hang on without pulling over to stretch my left hamstring.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Then about Mile 24, the 4:20 pacer needed to slow down cuz he said he was ahead of the pace, so I just decided to run on my own and tried to finish the race ASAP, when I got back on the PCH after Mile 25, there were lots of walkers on the street so I had to dodge a few of them. I was keeping my head down as I kept running toward the finish line, then as the finish line getting closer, I sprinted toward the finish and finished in <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><b>4:19.18!!!</b></span> Barely finished sub 4:20.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After the race, there was a long line to the Beer Garden but I had to skip because it's just not worth it to wait that long just for 1 beer!! I headed back to my car and to change and headed back to the finish line to watch my friend finish.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Overall, the race was nicely organized, great volunteers, the weather was perfect, but the course was a bit dreadful the last 11 miles with the out and back on the bike path. I will stick to the half next time. =-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFOmVsAnTGtIxll1cNpdcHS0HwqnIB6B-odiP7ZiVlttiIrUKlTErdILuQJygqoH0wWTlWJ1KZd48dalIIqhji1awVA9_AXtlO_GK37m9L0e9wGKF_73VKq1IS13MVkKgmHrEqnPUkn4w/s1600/DSCN1801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFOmVsAnTGtIxll1cNpdcHS0HwqnIB6B-odiP7ZiVlttiIrUKlTErdILuQJygqoH0wWTlWJ1KZd48dalIIqhji1awVA9_AXtlO_GK37m9L0e9wGKF_73VKq1IS13MVkKgmHrEqnPUkn4w/s320/DSCN1801.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One mile to go!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDozc39bNx96f-zXRhfN9to3BZ97pAmdnK9DLxcyfCrZTj2auIFWHV_jLxj9-28VXcB1bv0dfd4n0pbM1rhCmtzjgP5W8JsiAbuKeaI_oFm38jygsxT7Lif1VRDRcXMfAAR7IwkGybahw/s1600/surfcity1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDozc39bNx96f-zXRhfN9to3BZ97pAmdnK9DLxcyfCrZTj2auIFWHV_jLxj9-28VXcB1bv0dfd4n0pbM1rhCmtzjgP5W8JsiAbuKeaI_oFm38jygsxT7Lif1VRDRcXMfAAR7IwkGybahw/s400/surfcity1.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Sprinting toward the finish line.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE6AicZXXviz5qNqB8_KtOBh8Iz2BFiSLNEzUu2FoMCIUlPy0DlnN0P1AF9aBGn4aA_XwUoI_UL59FI7Q3dvhiXt8WQ8jh6yis4NKMzuN2eNM8jd6TywMk09-CrmGmxON7EN39EM8JKUU/s1600/surfcity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE6AicZXXviz5qNqB8_KtOBh8Iz2BFiSLNEzUu2FoMCIUlPy0DlnN0P1AF9aBGn4aA_XwUoI_UL59FI7Q3dvhiXt8WQ8jh6yis4NKMzuN2eNM8jd6TywMk09-CrmGmxON7EN39EM8JKUU/s400/surfcity.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Victory!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b>Next Race.....................10th Annual Mercedes Marathon, Birmingham, AL, 2-13-2011</b></span></i></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-21945593398954772092011-02-09T13:55:00.000-08:002011-02-09T13:55:31.543-08:00Rock N Roll Arizona Marathon RecapThis was my <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">2nd</span></b> marathon of the year and <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">75th</span></b> overall<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzkdaQ3iUNZU130Sdh_vtr5-yxeIUhbrWmed0ah8zIbeHFjc8hwdgIeZgkcyuToLcbDX0NnaVhmcVFBp3qVcMHtGSoOds1MyKvTzNIgjowuiTmeRnid9oex0dSTCJnDuqPrFQ1Xrp218k/s1600/DSCN1697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzkdaQ3iUNZU130Sdh_vtr5-yxeIUhbrWmed0ah8zIbeHFjc8hwdgIeZgkcyuToLcbDX0NnaVhmcVFBp3qVcMHtGSoOds1MyKvTzNIgjowuiTmeRnid9oex0dSTCJnDuqPrFQ1Xrp218k/s400/DSCN1697.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">I have ran this race since 2005 and this year I have ran my fastest!!! </span></b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b>2005</b> - 5:05.08</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b>2006</b> - 4:43.57</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b>2007</b> - 4:39.58</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b>2008 </b>- 4:17.55</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b>2009</b> - 4:13.10</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b>2010</b> - 4:27.12 (suffering with a strained left achilles tendon problem from a race the week before)</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b>2011</b> -<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow; font-size: large;"> 4:05.41!!!</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Saturday - 1-15-11</span></b><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">I picked up my rental car from John Wayne Airport the day before so I could leave for Arizona after work. I started my trip at 2:30am and drove NON STOP for 5 1/2 hours to Phoenix, AZ. My rental was a Chrysler Sebring, which I really like, I didnt have to stop for gas until I got to Phoenix, it has about 400 miles tank, great sounds system, plus it has a phonejack input so I could plug in my iPhone and watch my Netflix while I was driving!! Something to kept me entertain for my lonely long drive.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">When I got to Tempe I stopped by this place called Chompies for some breakfast, this place was featured on the show Man vs Food because they have this crazy food challenge that if you finish 12 of their famous sliders, you will get your picture on their wall, but I didnt take on their challenge, maybe one day.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">So after I was all fueled and rested, just a little, I drove to the airport to pick up 2 of my Maniacs Ed and Donna, then we headed to the expo. I happend to sign up for next year RNR Arizona for only $75 at the expo!! Cant beat that price, plus I have been running RNRAZ since their 1st year in 2004, but only 2004 I did the Half.</div><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Pre Race Dinner</span></b><br />
<br />
We met up with other Maniacs and Fanatics and friends at this restaurant call Michelina, it's a family owned restaurant so it's very authentic, their food were amazingly good. This was my carbo load meal.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRHEyEB68o8GKaqgC9e4vdPjKLdFgHl5wQDUtUlRTQEMDZAHzOsZKxOBhzyTZFOjHwIs9gCz8V3O7JWbK1S1q-O7cZGOJFgKZVqX_tzHg-ITZpYlcjzxSAQM_CuaSXf6T9cOZwP9IlvUA/s1600/DSCN1591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRHEyEB68o8GKaqgC9e4vdPjKLdFgHl5wQDUtUlRTQEMDZAHzOsZKxOBhzyTZFOjHwIs9gCz8V3O7JWbK1S1q-O7cZGOJFgKZVqX_tzHg-ITZpYlcjzxSAQM_CuaSXf6T9cOZwP9IlvUA/s400/DSCN1591.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj38LoaQSIRAINB8m_mEnTiZ-J7AmNQq5DMboE-b8DYRzrHl7ts-P6I4MbgFSySWCNxE_vZ83XU-_RORSu6UH_vCta0-pjGua4UPdcbmPAg_9K_LXlN0mGfHjnZc6JLHurGuPn7jb0PJ10/s1600/rnraz5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj38LoaQSIRAINB8m_mEnTiZ-J7AmNQq5DMboE-b8DYRzrHl7ts-P6I4MbgFSySWCNxE_vZ83XU-_RORSu6UH_vCta0-pjGua4UPdcbmPAg_9K_LXlN0mGfHjnZc6JLHurGuPn7jb0PJ10/s400/rnraz5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Group pic at the dinner</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Race Day - 1-16-11</span></b><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">My fellow Maniac Sef was staying with me for the night after the dinner, we stayed only about a mile from the finish line so getting to the parking lot across the street from ASU in the morning and taking the shuttle to the start was completely smooth.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">We met up bunch of Maniacs and Fanatic for a huge group photo before the race, it was great to be able to meet all the other runners, the whole group gathering would not have happened without the help from fellow Maniac Dave Mari, he is the best organizing group photo!!! It's always fun to see him in a race!! So after the photo shoot, we all headed to our corrals and get ready for the start.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhgforezljL1nSx_CiyMctMZ2cKrzR0GkMvddBLr0lw5PiH9VfcmNK_Ms6f9leVJ9Be35dk2GjRvW-2HX5w0SRv0Z0XUbrpCDW0ZpCsO6eSlYzJMVaUok8vYU_qEQz49BqugNqaRZEK8U/s1600/rnraz3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhgforezljL1nSx_CiyMctMZ2cKrzR0GkMvddBLr0lw5PiH9VfcmNK_Ms6f9leVJ9Be35dk2GjRvW-2HX5w0SRv0Z0XUbrpCDW0ZpCsO6eSlYzJMVaUok8vYU_qEQz49BqugNqaRZEK8U/s400/rnraz3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">What a great group of runners!!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I started in Corral 2 cuz I lied about my predicted time just so I could get start early, my goal was finish under 4 hours or just a PR on this course. I noticed the 3:45 pace group in my corral and decided to follow them to see how long I could stay with them. I started from staying behind them, to a few mins behind, to see them in a distance, to fading in distance, I was trying to follow the 4:00 pace group at about Mile 21 but couldnt hang on for long. But I was able to find some leftover fuel in my tank to push myself finished in <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow; font-weight: bold;">4:05.41</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">, </span>MY RNRAZ PR!!! </div><br />
<b>Mile 1</b> - 8:34 <b>Mile 14</b> - 9:15<br />
<b>Mile 2 </b>- 8:22 <b>Mile 15</b> - 8:40<br />
<b>Mile 3</b> - 8:22 <b>Mile 16</b> - 9:45<br />
<b>Mile 4</b> - 8:23 <b>Mile 17</b> - 10:19<br />
<b>Mile 5</b> - 8:33 <b>Mile 18</b> - 9:53<br />
<b>Mile 6</b> - 8:32 <b>Mile 19</b> - 9:44<br />
<b>Mile 7</b> - 8:36 <b>Mile 20</b> - 10:57<br />
<b>Mile 8 </b>- 8:33 <b>Mile 21</b> - 11:05<br />
<b>Mile 9</b> - 8:25 <b>Mile 22</b> - 11:01<br />
<b>Mile 10</b>- 8 :44 <b>Mile 23</b> - 10:20<br />
<b>Mile 11</b> - 8:49 <b>Mile 24</b> - 10:59<br />
<b>Mile 12</b> - 8:26 <b>Mile 25</b> - 11:23<br />
<b>Mile 13</b> - 8:22 <b>Mile 26</b> - 9:54<br />
<b>Mile .2</b> - 1:53<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAcc255RihxWX7hr2gsZyWRIduFnYeF30pob7Ide7BIprbs9uxJ7sOKThaV2ssgJ8FXdIWlaahrt3xQ7oPfJJ4ANd63MkhXO3177c8a4n9ZomqJBuUl1RMi6PKZypRlm3wXk1_KLnFE6E/s1600/DSCN1690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAcc255RihxWX7hr2gsZyWRIduFnYeF30pob7Ide7BIprbs9uxJ7sOKThaV2ssgJ8FXdIWlaahrt3xQ7oPfJJ4ANd63MkhXO3177c8a4n9ZomqJBuUl1RMi6PKZypRlm3wXk1_KLnFE6E/s320/DSCN1690.JPG" width="233" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">1.2 miles to go!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZSNoL5qYm872mHDnNxsU3JFY5CDdiniCMFL8Wd42Ue4Ei9O01aCEb6hOWmlYRfuacwlEzGJNZdvY1NlMkkVBb1rOs2zZmpLSNbquUpFxn__XattWrIwdzVGIAcJ0Djy_lyeteq3uoHuc/s1600/RNRAZ2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZSNoL5qYm872mHDnNxsU3JFY5CDdiniCMFL8Wd42Ue4Ei9O01aCEb6hOWmlYRfuacwlEzGJNZdvY1NlMkkVBb1rOs2zZmpLSNbquUpFxn__XattWrIwdzVGIAcJ0Djy_lyeteq3uoHuc/s320/RNRAZ2.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br />
After the race, a few of us went to the Buffalo Wild Wings across the street from the ASU to enjoy our post race meal.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKakGAr3T2aO-6uLBJjQKqaVC7qKgZAJgXvejJC1urIVGZc55zuTNRzT1FqLCGNPOID2ZlTn_OOtQZbie2fjiX6gMrRGMgHL11rgOaNQQVqA-tmE0L0hZ_iiVENmTohWRdcJvNZXkKguw/s1600/rnraz4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKakGAr3T2aO-6uLBJjQKqaVC7qKgZAJgXvejJC1urIVGZc55zuTNRzT1FqLCGNPOID2ZlTn_OOtQZbie2fjiX6gMrRGMgHL11rgOaNQQVqA-tmE0L0hZ_iiVENmTohWRdcJvNZXkKguw/s400/rnraz4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Heidi, Bryce, Ed, Sef and I at the Buffalo Wild Wings</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b>Next Race............................Surf City Marathon 2-6-2011</b></span></i>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-4796728237906749282011-01-22T04:31:00.000-08:002011-01-22T04:31:56.540-08:00New Year's Day Texas Marathon RecapWell this is the NEW YEAR!!! My <b><span style="color: yellow;">FIRST</span></b> marathon of the year and <b><span style="color: yellow;">74th</span></b> marathon overall<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ydX14YSl088YQnhXns2SuHG-XR7KG94YJKji74J8UyerqwlJ5dJhRgHaUEWFycoCs1fsENl4eDbyCYngDpgUfVyKPtgOFNp_Sn3-ZNcpZ6CfMIILWQKlhEweKLTKdtPrQtyDtwI-iME/s1600/medal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ydX14YSl088YQnhXns2SuHG-XR7KG94YJKji74J8UyerqwlJ5dJhRgHaUEWFycoCs1fsENl4eDbyCYngDpgUfVyKPtgOFNp_Sn3-ZNcpZ6CfMIILWQKlhEweKLTKdtPrQtyDtwI-iME/s400/medal.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YXB2uMc4yr9czAgj1juOGVXLqYy1vw0rl-SFbutMlVRbV_tP_pD6ydVeremGQw_GTfBx3o4VsTQYTVfCSZG7FDeqkhY7kZARemeOzt4fPAvTWjylmBbtnRRX6nWyhxBRDAC9Xn9WxPs/s1600/DSCN1528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
I was suppose to run this marathon last year, but I couldnt afford another trip so I chose to my have entry carried over to the following year. The Race Directors Steve and Paul Boone were kindly enough to transfer my entry to 2011.<br />
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<div style="color: yellow;">Thursday -12-30-2010</div><br />
I decided to arrive in Austin cuz I want to spend a day visitng the city of Austin and expereince some of their good food. Below are the places I have visited while I was in Austin, TX<br />
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Round Rock Donut - I saw this place mentioned on the show Man Vs Food, they serve the biggest donut EVER!!<a href="http://www.roundrockdonuts.com/"> http://www.roundrockdonuts.com/ </a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUIzpQYf6tuHZseLNAwCYF2FDNCKbM9_cRDgpRWInwRmjucIWfAS-EPCOmrJztP1jwODDxkaZSDcLyStR6uXN_4mNgISvThu1Z7083_9FXf2R2uTvhVanzxqF4EkS9ZYOYgq6g-j06GdM/s1600/Donuts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUIzpQYf6tuHZseLNAwCYF2FDNCKbM9_cRDgpRWInwRmjucIWfAS-EPCOmrJztP1jwODDxkaZSDcLyStR6uXN_4mNgISvThu1Z7083_9FXf2R2uTvhVanzxqF4EkS9ZYOYgq6g-j06GdM/s320/Donuts.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I could only finished half of it, it's just HUGE!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Salt Lick BBQ restaurant - this place was also mentioned on Man Vs Food, their ribs were really juicy, <a href="http://www.saltlickbbq.com/">http://www.saltlickbbq.com/</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJFdlyobCj7fVVI-cqqbgzEWtrFsO18NiLA3Fr6-HPZOs4Bgv7ymwa44uNN1kVMsRgZOvIKR9F2It0x_ODpPpffzdCW14EPDTt5UcuaWe1D4IGY_0TWkUzcIY80g3Vsfj-ObMO4fIFUI4/s1600/saltlick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJFdlyobCj7fVVI-cqqbgzEWtrFsO18NiLA3Fr6-HPZOs4Bgv7ymwa44uNN1kVMsRgZOvIKR9F2It0x_ODpPpffzdCW14EPDTt5UcuaWe1D4IGY_0TWkUzcIY80g3Vsfj-ObMO4fIFUI4/s320/saltlick.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">me standing infront of the open grill pit inside the restaurant</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUB-HEOTZwN40_XaKNEIQLejBabGxARslScmk3wFwenp9jvJPTsTFZWfKr8j_-pj6e15dvSkr_6nLI3YJFtz4n-ZfKuQPlxznH7UqCWTO8oxI39a55t4U-BSHDVKmn1PcVlYIXH5DvhzI/s1600/babybackrib.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUB-HEOTZwN40_XaKNEIQLejBabGxARslScmk3wFwenp9jvJPTsTFZWfKr8j_-pj6e15dvSkr_6nLI3YJFtz4n-ZfKuQPlxznH7UqCWTO8oxI39a55t4U-BSHDVKmn1PcVlYIXH5DvhzI/s1600/babybackrib.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUB-HEOTZwN40_XaKNEIQLejBabGxARslScmk3wFwenp9jvJPTsTFZWfKr8j_-pj6e15dvSkr_6nLI3YJFtz4n-ZfKuQPlxznH7UqCWTO8oxI39a55t4U-BSHDVKmn1PcVlYIXH5DvhzI/s400/babybackrib.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUB-HEOTZwN40_XaKNEIQLejBabGxARslScmk3wFwenp9jvJPTsTFZWfKr8j_-pj6e15dvSkr_6nLI3YJFtz4n-ZfKuQPlxznH7UqCWTO8oxI39a55t4U-BSHDVKmn1PcVlYIXH5DvhzI/s1600/babybackrib.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I ordered the babyback rib for takeout, they were really tasty!!</div><div style="color: yellow;"><br />
</div><div style="color: yellow;">Friday - New Year's Eve -12-31-2010</div><br />
Well, this day I decided to drive down to San Antonio and spend the day visiting the famous Riverwalk and check out some of their famous restaurants that I saw on the show Man Vs Food, and yes I watch that show a lot cuz I love to eat!!!<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">First stop, Juan In A Million. <a href="http://www.juaninamillion.com/">http://www.juaninamillion.com/</a>, they have the cheapest and biggest famous "Don Juan" El Taco Grande for only $3.80. I heard that if you can eat 7 of those, you will get your picture on their wall of fame, I really enjoyed their taco, but I didnt attempt to eat 7 of those, maybe next time.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiEh3VLotYXqnpya31kpjVsPjj1s0lUR6CfPSOBJ_OoeIIThIHDnK9dz_1-jfoiAEtnGENZiPBZJOWZq_mq6cpP0OGUHw0XgKAhiywpWWO0ba4S-PAechDTsw5hbN_w_fyKJCdrtUty6o/s1600/taco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiEh3VLotYXqnpya31kpjVsPjj1s0lUR6CfPSOBJ_OoeIIThIHDnK9dz_1-jfoiAEtnGENZiPBZJOWZq_mq6cpP0OGUHw0XgKAhiywpWWO0ba4S-PAechDTsw5hbN_w_fyKJCdrtUty6o/s400/taco.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> This was the "Don Juan" El Taco Grande</div><br />
Second stop, Lulu's Bakery and Cafe, <a href="http://www.luluscafeinsa.com/index.html">http://www.luluscafeinsa.com/ </a> another Man vs Food's destination, this place has been known to have the biggest cinnamon rolls ever, 3 lbs!!! I only ordered their famous Chicken Fried Steak with mashed potatoes and dinner roll, which were ok I guess, didnt get the 3lbs Cinnamon Roll since I dont think I could finish it all by myself.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjY3kl4so_xAm73We3Ulftthn4JNeXKXvsjx5I5QkvfOScyvBgdhDRhYkU68LF0vuyu_3KI0tM1rD5JoEbV2SbgEf6eBXXTAoJPyVUTvQAWILhTgHiU4z2htsCo-eKUl9lHxbjxnCE2cQ/s1600/chickensteak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjY3kl4so_xAm73We3Ulftthn4JNeXKXvsjx5I5QkvfOScyvBgdhDRhYkU68LF0vuyu_3KI0tM1rD5JoEbV2SbgEf6eBXXTAoJPyVUTvQAWILhTgHiU4z2htsCo-eKUl9lHxbjxnCE2cQ/s320/chickensteak.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> This was the famous chicken fry steak, it was ok to my taste.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOx5q3Zm5sXMUJhw99Euk_LY_rKmswvo4KQVw7hZ8b3Wrb20A42XmuApiHWIXTx0fZd_OzJ-taHfYso7XAlpQU-OT8TlE0A4JO6e16M3nWCQIZcCeNzP1_V9KXoSQBXhaWK5p9oPZU1w0/s1600/lulubench.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOx5q3Zm5sXMUJhw99Euk_LY_rKmswvo4KQVw7hZ8b3Wrb20A42XmuApiHWIXTx0fZd_OzJ-taHfYso7XAlpQU-OT8TlE0A4JO6e16M3nWCQIZcCeNzP1_V9KXoSQBXhaWK5p9oPZU1w0/s320/lulubench.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <br />
The rest of the day and night I just strolled around the famous Riverwalk in downtown San Antonio, also got the chance to visit the famous The Alamo, what a history this place had back in the days, I enjoyed walking thru their museum and read their stories about the war, lots of items were being display, such as the clothes, the riffles, coins, etc.... It was definately a must go whenever you are in San Antonio. I stayed in San Antonio until 10pm because I didnt want to deal with the crazy crowd when the midnight strikes, since they had a new year's eve outdoor party nearby, so I just drove back up to Austin and watched the ball drops in my room.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmUAIl-_7xCOuXoTPDCtp_7szdhsFJ4OR1m7TIvq_xCVUNumn_geZktpUyIfZPIrwxvzJn_paj7BlMjwcQMGDQddfdGE72iGWuH15Gudlyg9HGYRUDS8nmRGBNQXradgiK8xMebB2pvU4/s1600/Alamo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmUAIl-_7xCOuXoTPDCtp_7szdhsFJ4OR1m7TIvq_xCVUNumn_geZktpUyIfZPIrwxvzJn_paj7BlMjwcQMGDQddfdGE72iGWuH15Gudlyg9HGYRUDS8nmRGBNQXradgiK8xMebB2pvU4/s400/Alamo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> The front of the historical The Alamo</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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<div style="color: yellow;">Race Day - 1-01-2011</div><br />
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!<br />
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Well, it's the first race of the new year and also my very first time that I ever ran a marathon on New Year's Day. So I woke up at 3am and drove 3 hrs from Austin down to Kingwood, TX, It was a very comfortable in my rental Mustang, I could drive that car anyday, anytime. =-) I arrived at the Greentree Park, where the race held, at around 6am, parked right next to the basketball court close to the start, then I went to pick up my bib, time chip, my long sleeves t-shirt, a gym bag, yes, they gave you a gym bag with your registration!! Plus a mug and a visor, what a nice swag!!! I went back to my car and took a little nap before the race starts at 8am.<br />
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Before the race starts, race directors Steve and Paula Boone were addressing the crowds and welcomed us to Texas. They also showed us the HUGE medal we will be getting when we finished the race, which was a solid 3lbs medal!! They really live up to the "Everything is Big in Texas" statement. They also congratulated Yolanda Holder and Larry Macon for breaking the record for most marathon run in a calendar year in 2010 with 106.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindYKZC1HyXkRla41j9yVbL2MANAj35UllYAf0kfTafbbDPdSHBKyt8zuXYC5yqzhML9kx0KmIKZJkDLNDBOsg8513gztUt8pQeh3P2l3Dtga_6gjWha5HrGJraoTeqgKU_fH1wFLbvsA/s1600/DSCN1389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindYKZC1HyXkRla41j9yVbL2MANAj35UllYAf0kfTafbbDPdSHBKyt8zuXYC5yqzhML9kx0KmIKZJkDLNDBOsg8513gztUt8pQeh3P2l3Dtga_6gjWha5HrGJraoTeqgKU_fH1wFLbvsA/s400/DSCN1389.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yolanda Holder and Larry Macon were being congratulated before the race.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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The course is pretty much going 4 times(2 times for the Half ) on a 6.5 miles loop course around the beautiful park, aid station every 1.5 miles, although majority of the course is on concrete, it doesnt seem to bother me. And what I love about loop course was that I got to see those same runners over and over again during the stretch of the course, it's always fun to see familiar faces when they were coming toward me.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQapKGK2yicDvWs7syzRT1-exPKkpZ6zDZWuciVaSIZ8niHzPAo4SVR5yylKw-62b46zTLqTiM7Wt-bFxZL3ZWCUwDz9J_89jD19kbj9zq3THWoYtqtjvemD-AiCSq_zVtDjsYRCOnGCc/s1600/DSCN1396.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQapKGK2yicDvWs7syzRT1-exPKkpZ6zDZWuciVaSIZ8niHzPAo4SVR5yylKw-62b46zTLqTiM7Wt-bFxZL3ZWCUwDz9J_89jD19kbj9zq3THWoYtqtjvemD-AiCSq_zVtDjsYRCOnGCc/s400/DSCN1396.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> We had to run around this beautiful lake during the 6.5 miles loop.</div><br />
During the first mile, I noticed they have hung a lot of 8x10s on the tree with each runner's name on it on both left and right side, I couldnt find my name until my 3rd loop, it was on the left side of the course (left coming out, right coming back). So I have decided that I shouold take my sign down on my final loop and pinned on my shirt so people can see it. I caught up with Yolanda Holder at mile 25, she is the Guinese World Record holder for most marathon run in a calendar year by a female, 106, I chatted with her while we were walking since I didnt care about my time anyway so I just enjoyed my time to chat with Yolanda, we always see each other at our races since we are SoCal locals. I crossed the finish line at <span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: yellow;">4:42.40</b></span>, Yolanda still had 1 more laps to go. And when I finished, they gave me my medal, a little rubber ducky with my place written on it, plus a duck hat!! Then they have pizza, cookies and soda at the other table for us.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWVYI1sOz0SopIp6P337QIsRUzvQTy6HxQAXbK6VP363GiTRPhZPFVhBTvAaJXuOvAZk6PDvpgXQD7bWuFfC_HS5rb0n9qJtYZsKTZnqjgdtg71_dAQQPY8mWb45NbZ3dJxhnvIBZuj38/s1600/DSCN1500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWVYI1sOz0SopIp6P337QIsRUzvQTy6HxQAXbK6VP363GiTRPhZPFVhBTvAaJXuOvAZk6PDvpgXQD7bWuFfC_HS5rb0n9qJtYZsKTZnqjgdtg71_dAQQPY8mWb45NbZ3dJxhnvIBZuj38/s400/DSCN1500.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Yolanda and Larry finished the race together.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtQjRKUwzh1luCHQ-i52_RNb3VB7mcOotI1WCvaHjYBGPq-F0sG63jT7DmfRlBwHUESmtb6uxWxlPAg9St5hJHjEacvlTeJJE7X20BRWHiTY6QkR0CzCHVg5Fb1DG7_WeejQUStezPuk0/s1600/DSCN1502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtQjRKUwzh1luCHQ-i52_RNb3VB7mcOotI1WCvaHjYBGPq-F0sG63jT7DmfRlBwHUESmtb6uxWxlPAg9St5hJHjEacvlTeJJE7X20BRWHiTY6QkR0CzCHVg5Fb1DG7_WeejQUStezPuk0/s400/DSCN1502.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Yolanda and me at the finish.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpZwFkoVoQS6DRtqcbEQw3LYmzrMWv7ieD0dmiciBv41QBLY42sTrYHKoGhdEZKT7rUmDzPUT858tBVWpoTpPaPfNVI1NPmIEfSSMCWrz1UFG-YCo1UxKjWur59H6zy7dLgXUspF1i8DQ/s1600/RSCN1507.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpZwFkoVoQS6DRtqcbEQw3LYmzrMWv7ieD0dmiciBv41QBLY42sTrYHKoGhdEZKT7rUmDzPUT858tBVWpoTpPaPfNVI1NPmIEfSSMCWrz1UFG-YCo1UxKjWur59H6zy7dLgXUspF1i8DQ/s400/RSCN1507.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpZwFkoVoQS6DRtqcbEQw3LYmzrMWv7ieD0dmiciBv41QBLY42sTrYHKoGhdEZKT7rUmDzPUT858tBVWpoTpPaPfNVI1NPmIEfSSMCWrz1UFG-YCo1UxKjWur59H6zy7dLgXUspF1i8DQ/s1600/RSCN1507.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Always love to meet fellow Maniacs.</div><br />
Overall this race is a VERY, VERY fun AND friendly race, I enjoyed every mins of it, running thru the beautiful park with gorgeous lake view was breath taking. I always love meeting new Maniacs before and after the race. I would recommend this race to anyone who doesnt mind a low-key race with HUGE medal. I will definately run this race again in the near future, maybe next year???<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Y4K1KclotSSC4Soxpd7MT2an38vNFgqXOtmpHSp0LcjHObTC4qKzNVoWJZ36PV4UzL8HRwGRbBU8KzvucDlUbkZ_L8nmDlQQJScFMkdgw2w1FhnLog3eh8EMudEg4sIdDZ1cgvUMxGI/s1600/start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBQQudnry-zdommJBQgPTWpA-Sgx854ZAaY8wYltHbSP0teQ7y1wKjWWakiWjsNzNvz8z_1_BGSQrtNaxOefzNhOFiZInZunBYPHQHAWpUzMC0Vjrfgk2Yx7j44hhg7Rd-0HoU8KuA4Q/s1600/finishline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBQQudnry-zdommJBQgPTWpA-Sgx854ZAaY8wYltHbSP0teQ7y1wKjWWakiWjsNzNvz8z_1_BGSQrtNaxOefzNhOFiZInZunBYPHQHAWpUzMC0Vjrfgk2Yx7j44hhg7Rd-0HoU8KuA4Q/s400/finishline.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">Next Race...............Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon, 1-16-2011</span></b> Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-80055740353062017322010-12-17T13:48:00.000-08:002010-12-18T00:27:17.406-08:00Death Valley Trail Marathon RecapThis is my <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><b>17th</b></span> and final marathon of the year, and my<b> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">73th</span> </b>marathon overall<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBv8fYjmeTiNe9zyybIKi2e9CrY4HrWZ4-VBY4FU5J_JCcXaVdOZs9WT5SfAVf8fsD6vohgYWCrGVzISgMWIv_AwO0ewADxyvGAa30Lpn6UJPVBllurbNbtzRT5yNd9q0sx5CEwy_iCac/s1600/DVmedal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBv8fYjmeTiNe9zyybIKi2e9CrY4HrWZ4-VBY4FU5J_JCcXaVdOZs9WT5SfAVf8fsD6vohgYWCrGVzISgMWIv_AwO0ewADxyvGAa30Lpn6UJPVBllurbNbtzRT5yNd9q0sx5CEwy_iCac/s320/DVmedal.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Well, I have out done myself this year by completing more marathons than last year, in 2009 I have done 13 marathons, it seems like I wanted to pushed myself a little further every year. So lets see if I could do more marathon in the year 2011.<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">The Death Valley Trail Marathon usually held on the first Saturday of Feb, but after 21 years, they had decided to switch with the Death Valley Borax Marathon, which held on the first Sat of December. The reason for the switch was because of the weather condition is using better for the trail in December than in February. So this year they actually had 2 Death Valley Trail Marathons in the same year, one is Feb and one in Dec, but next year they will back to normal with Death Valley Road Marathon in Feb and Death Valley Trail Marathon in Dec.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I got off work Friday night at 10pm, met at my parents house midnight and we were heading to Death Valley aroudn 1am. About 6:15am, we arrived at the Furnance Creek Ranch, where we would pick up our bib at this bar called Corkscrew Saloon, it's a tiny little bar with the restaurant right next door. While I was waiting in line to get my bib, I bumped into my Maniac buddy Kino from NY, he was doing this marathon AND RNR Vegas the next day. What a hardcore Maniac!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Before we take the shuttle bus to the start, the race director gathered us runners infront of the ranch for a little briefing, he talked about how the race started and how he used to be a sub 3 marathon runner, but now since he has titanium knee, he isnt the same as before anymore, but this guy is funny and he has the voice you can hear from miles away. So after all the info had been addressed, we all headed to the shuttle buses for about half an hour ride to the start.</div><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">The Race</span></b><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">The race started like around 9am instead of 8:30am. I was running comfortable the first 3 miles, but because of the elevation at 3500 feet, I started to slow down a bit, when I got to the first aid station at around Mile 5, the elevation jumped to 4000ft, they have aid stations every 5 miles so we all needed to carry our own bottles. The next few miles were rough since it went from 4000ft to 5000 ft elevation, I did a lot of walking and running.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Then I was relief when I saw 2 school buses on top of hills around Mile 9 cuz I knew that's our next aid station, I filled up my bottle and was on my way. After that it was a little downhill, then about a mile uphill running thru this scenic trails and after that it was pretty much all downhill from there, as you can see the elevation chart below.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1t1XvWvbkAu_W2BRlBM4DfvolT6acVRLB_nzFStOZipPm_HqQoqaqw0iKdKXUwQL3wRCvESvnZUkoO4xI3R0GspBNrQua86rDB8HQYz3CPd9nVs-HAcbonCeVYV9OcbGH1Svx3JFOJ9o/s1600/DV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1t1XvWvbkAu_W2BRlBM4DfvolT6acVRLB_nzFStOZipPm_HqQoqaqw0iKdKXUwQL3wRCvESvnZUkoO4xI3R0GspBNrQua86rDB8HQYz3CPd9nVs-HAcbonCeVYV9OcbGH1Svx3JFOJ9o/s400/DV.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH5bfYtUxUJUIV3nlDIEXTHHIUQIAgNJcgrkBgYGRDfNCmwZsaW7KqZOa1yBmz5tbaHsk9QCjen9VIJ_Tt0loIi85vjOj7BleiJIhhqucnzDMcabVHjyO6RxoKVHJS60KYa5ijJQfShsk/s1600/DSCN0892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH5bfYtUxUJUIV3nlDIEXTHHIUQIAgNJcgrkBgYGRDfNCmwZsaW7KqZOa1yBmz5tbaHsk9QCjen9VIJ_Tt0loIi85vjOj7BleiJIhhqucnzDMcabVHjyO6RxoKVHJS60KYa5ijJQfShsk/s320/DSCN0892.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Running downhill can be fun but challenging on your quads, plus you have to watch where your foot lands so you wont trip yourself.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihRQL2YawCDIdN-c-s9MrZJaoD0OaRnPR5P4Mef3ko0YuhgPAJsvQSTr6XBmvvVavTjna7v8XowcUUZduACa4t9SBWxL2fzSrZZPuhmYbKuqTiP5SRkJ8vaWT6nUNsbcjQ2EiYcl1nDho/s1600/DSCN0895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihRQL2YawCDIdN-c-s9MrZJaoD0OaRnPR5P4Mef3ko0YuhgPAJsvQSTr6XBmvvVavTjna7v8XowcUUZduACa4t9SBWxL2fzSrZZPuhmYbKuqTiP5SRkJ8vaWT6nUNsbcjQ2EiYcl1nDho/s320/DSCN0895.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRvkLpvXmV5Tn7_OA5VuEbE0imgrCNAAUIPISJP06Kv-iTqP6pFAZh_3qUBneS5OULe0lXy3LU2g1SfvH8XbXEsp-g13FGvIaaFppyeUJIt3DIF7a5gnKqy9Wzce54iW-_rB1Ls5Xun8/s1600/DSCN0904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRvkLpvXmV5Tn7_OA5VuEbE0imgrCNAAUIPISJP06Kv-iTqP6pFAZh_3qUBneS5OULe0lXy3LU2g1SfvH8XbXEsp-g13FGvIaaFppyeUJIt3DIF7a5gnKqy9Wzce54iW-_rB1Ls5Xun8/s320/DSCN0904.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Running down this beautiful trail was breath taking.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMSa4v-Bhud9Moem5aBXu_6JB-CB0lYJlRrA44suV9uIz86nC6ygbVKNjPEPmKQoC8LFvTQSycrfH_lriRj_kXnNxvGcuOw-Y73MEg4HoIQo0UBFZJhLsbbjkVXkitJP0YUGmWsSGhwgg/s1600/DSCN0912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMSa4v-Bhud9Moem5aBXu_6JB-CB0lYJlRrA44suV9uIz86nC6ygbVKNjPEPmKQoC8LFvTQSycrfH_lriRj_kXnNxvGcuOw-Y73MEg4HoIQo0UBFZJhLsbbjkVXkitJP0YUGmWsSGhwgg/s320/DSCN0912.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> At Mile 15ish Leadfield, ele approx 4000ft.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKIcfVKOorqpZox3YkAZtBHFTQ98aWD9KCPcNAwC9fMUUJOViu4vcvUBLjCVu5_jFFpojO5t-fs0N8f3mOlOH2ii7PrKAx1RiWFZsPJ3Pe_fhWMHu8gZfRk8Xhr4YmcRKyUWJeeZtQWao/s1600/DSCN0913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKIcfVKOorqpZox3YkAZtBHFTQ98aWD9KCPcNAwC9fMUUJOViu4vcvUBLjCVu5_jFFpojO5t-fs0N8f3mOlOH2ii7PrKAx1RiWFZsPJ3Pe_fhWMHu8gZfRk8Xhr4YmcRKyUWJeeZtQWao/s320/DSCN0913.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At Mile 15 aid station</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgwWnqnV3aJf5nEYQbyTHc-rDEDLxGkAhiXgRF7LKvdIonLk4zlUwvCkZ-_6M67iMcJgWbZr0V-Ey2ytIO14M3wPpcfMhVKKYGEVeXp92pmATfDo0fuIVgUgXiTjolEOmgDZfbk4DdrE/s1600/DSCN0917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgwWnqnV3aJf5nEYQbyTHc-rDEDLxGkAhiXgRF7LKvdIonLk4zlUwvCkZ-_6M67iMcJgWbZr0V-Ey2ytIO14M3wPpcfMhVKKYGEVeXp92pmATfDo0fuIVgUgXiTjolEOmgDZfbk4DdrE/s400/DSCN0917.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I heard this truck was behind me and I barely have room to get out of their way. Scary!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggHrVwYNAsaKLvB2RTI5vk6kY_5D5OZOYymWFrAfvjqQslTTYcTjwSFwXRIHZEULbiuHKehVsI4-CH6VaaKtOaOkJqX4-jHCI_iLJDD3d7-uX_5LlXIZ4ioUT4ePdZgMRoNCJLo-o6cp8/s1600/DSCN0926.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggHrVwYNAsaKLvB2RTI5vk6kY_5D5OZOYymWFrAfvjqQslTTYcTjwSFwXRIHZEULbiuHKehVsI4-CH6VaaKtOaOkJqX4-jHCI_iLJDD3d7-uX_5LlXIZ4ioUT4ePdZgMRoNCJLo-o6cp8/s400/DSCN0926.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdikjlSLTaFXBzYiT5ZzJQJB36lrgL75qPGwKwv3-6lLog7ZCX2aE0rv2N1jHraOFvi0ObBdTHsROjwjqDTGNNPSJQbuweULsxgNWbhJIoC1lIDgg7qcn0ZwHc8y3oR4notr7YPVVaJBI/s1600/DSCN0930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdikjlSLTaFXBzYiT5ZzJQJB36lrgL75qPGwKwv3-6lLog7ZCX2aE0rv2N1jHraOFvi0ObBdTHsROjwjqDTGNNPSJQbuweULsxgNWbhJIoC1lIDgg7qcn0ZwHc8y3oR4notr7YPVVaJBI/s400/DSCN0930.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At Mile 20 aid station, 10k to go!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihblaXXOt5HF4aU7p3BZF8QBSj9BcRow5HbgWOZSrnQTuJ7sGXlIfM1Jh5fXqHvO22qL7WEAwgE-KTe6an_jfkCHC7zFBC6snZTvC76o3IP-DM0wxkIx7p8ZaR4ShbjCERKRqOCyMS2LU/s1600/DSCN0943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihblaXXOt5HF4aU7p3BZF8QBSj9BcRow5HbgWOZSrnQTuJ7sGXlIfM1Jh5fXqHvO22qL7WEAwgE-KTe6an_jfkCHC7zFBC6snZTvC76o3IP-DM0wxkIx7p8ZaR4ShbjCERKRqOCyMS2LU/s400/DSCN0943.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At Mile 23 aid station, 5k to go!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinQLdr_yZBJmpxqTlN6jefj4Rx8KATOYo2cz1BPmFjbo3YBZ-o3MoYuVEKsTqDDGNDA31ZMim0TSeLVt0tl23JeGoqS5YQURoJfZBXjhNp9T3sl35PG7_cINnGYsqIFeHD51GokKcurDE/s1600/DSCN0942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinQLdr_yZBJmpxqTlN6jefj4Rx8KATOYo2cz1BPmFjbo3YBZ-o3MoYuVEKsTqDDGNDA31ZMim0TSeLVt0tl23JeGoqS5YQURoJfZBXjhNp9T3sl35PG7_cINnGYsqIFeHD51GokKcurDE/s400/DSCN0942.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Look back the around Mile 23.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With 5K to go, I was able to run my comfortable marathon pace since the elevation was down to less than 900ft. I crossed the finish at <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">4:45.13.</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><br />
</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here are my splits:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 1</span></b> -9:26, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 2</span></b> -9:34, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 3</span></b> -9:40, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 4</span></b> -9:59, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 5</span></b> -11:34 </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 6</span></b>-<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #ead1dc;">12:03,</span></span> </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 7</span></b>-12:22</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 8</span></b>-14:23</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 9</span></b>-13:44</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 10</span></b>-12:40 </span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 11</span></b>-10:34,</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 12</span></b>-15:36,(it was a long way climb to this point)</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 13</span></b>-11:26,</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 14</span></b>-8:58 ( my lungs felt a lot as I was decending)</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 15</span></b>-9:20</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 16</span></b>-17:41 ( I was taking picture at Mile 15 aid station, so that's why it took me so long )</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 17</span></b>-10:10,</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 18</span></b>-9:42, </span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 19</span></b>-8:59</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 20</span></b>-9:10</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 21</span></b>-9:32,</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 22</span></b>-8:33, </span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 23</span></b>-9:25, </span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 24</span></b>-10:07,(was hanging around by the mile 23 aid station before I started to run again)</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 25</span></b>-8:30,</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mile 26</span></b>-8:40</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</span></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</span></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After the race, we drove to Vegas to meet up with my Maniacs friends for dinner, they were doing the RNR Las Vegas Marathon the next day, I didnt run it but I was on the course cheering for them. Fun times!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3z94pYl4UK7zjpf4W16YEOphK9uCzTKc8RqCBPHoUgECKBddrjwTmAXRnZCN-nWOcKbW310Gms_U5GrIgQFCwgxezEinCwPUaTZqXs_21Wc_uUoD0rkW-q-rWPmZjTWGwe7Ox1u217iM/s1600/DSCN0948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3z94pYl4UK7zjpf4W16YEOphK9uCzTKc8RqCBPHoUgECKBddrjwTmAXRnZCN-nWOcKbW310Gms_U5GrIgQFCwgxezEinCwPUaTZqXs_21Wc_uUoD0rkW-q-rWPmZjTWGwe7Ox1u217iM/s400/DSCN0948.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At the Finish Line</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Overall I really like this trail marathon, I think it's very challenging but only the first 9 miles or so, after that it's mostly downhill than uphill, very scenic course, I would recommend everyone to run this at least once.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS_JVf9VJljkqdCLzIehy08XQnZ1QYKjX07uZ-XphACzWNPgjCierbb3Y431aP0oS3NDCJDOAdMgDH-kw_vN3ELTdzXmxP8LzkLO2xjYZcqB4kO6jc4WdE2Nm2Hh9BcCSKj5EETRqYQqY/s1600/DV1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS_JVf9VJljkqdCLzIehy08XQnZ1QYKjX07uZ-XphACzWNPgjCierbb3Y431aP0oS3NDCJDOAdMgDH-kw_vN3ELTdzXmxP8LzkLO2xjYZcqB4kO6jc4WdE2Nm2Hh9BcCSKj5EETRqYQqY/s400/DV1.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-0H7M1zQWa-0JHZurDp2G8V3CGax68zvfEwlBb0cRhLckKLLE6v73ZV4aG5KbSFOoNpxehqU4RfKvcXMLdawM5uXcByY_p2NVjQrQH-1eIX1ZQBtHEUozSRgPrzwljaR1rcxBSf1KHic/s1600/DV2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-0H7M1zQWa-0JHZurDp2G8V3CGax68zvfEwlBb0cRhLckKLLE6v73ZV4aG5KbSFOoNpxehqU4RfKvcXMLdawM5uXcByY_p2NVjQrQH-1eIX1ZQBtHEUozSRgPrzwljaR1rcxBSf1KHic/s400/DV2.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Next Race....................New Year's Day Marathon, Kingwood, TX, 1-1-201</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">1</span></span></b>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-58071932623557302942010-11-30T03:31:00.000-08:002010-11-30T03:31:04.029-08:00Malibu International Marathon Recap<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is my <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><b>16th</b></span> marathon this year and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><b>72nd</b></span> marathon overall</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxkgYjGh3dfsy62Kx_I6c2wUsm_x27fNi4dDawsz-BMRHjB9f7h1FIkbjtgYtohkiNliEH3Fw0GOf9zrscRIUPaRtq1sGFKlOXdJ1tJy1aHAbSZ61C8IfMW-ndK0YJQnVeaCssDcRX1eQ/s1600/bib.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxkgYjGh3dfsy62Kx_I6c2wUsm_x27fNi4dDawsz-BMRHjB9f7h1FIkbjtgYtohkiNliEH3Fw0GOf9zrscRIUPaRtq1sGFKlOXdJ1tJy1aHAbSZ61C8IfMW-ndK0YJQnVeaCssDcRX1eQ/s400/bib.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I wish this was my 100th marathon, but not yet.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I just ran the New York City Marathon a week ago and I was ready for another race. This time was the Malibu International Marathon, it was their 2nd year organizing this race. I had ran this race last year and I had a blast!! The reasons I wanted to run this one again were the goodies that I got, the beach towel, the medal, string bag, and a little lunch bag, plus the beautiful scenic coastal view during the 2nd half of the race. Running on the PCH for 15 miles is definiately a Race to Paradise.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">The Expo</span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I drove almost 2 hrs in LA traffic on the Friday before just to get to Zuma Beach to pickup my packet, the expo was REALLY small, there were only about less than 10 vendors in the parking lots, so after I picked up my stuff and my Maniac friend Deo's stuff, I hung around for a little while and talked to fellow Maniacs, James, Silver and Jessica, who were also there to pick up their bibs. Then I left later on and I drove almost 2hrs back home and went straight to work.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Race Day </span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I left my house at 3am, drove about an hour and a half to Zuma Beach, the finish line, to take the shuttle to the start. The bus didnt leave until 5:30am so I was just hanging out in my truck and trying to get everything ready for the race. It was still pretty dark in the parking lot with only a few street lights. The finish line was just starting to set up.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At 5:30am, I started to head to the shuttle bus, it wasnt really too cold so I was wearing just my Maniac singlet and my arm sleeves with no extra bag to be checked, being in New York the previous weekend, I think this was the perfect weather, at least in the morning. There were a few familiar Maniacs on the bus, Nadia, Dave and Deo, who just finished the Catalina Eco Marathon the day before. So after about half an hour ride and a few wrong turns, we finally arrived at the start in Camarillo Airport. It didnt take me long to locate my Maniacs friends, since most of them were wearing their Maniac singlets.We chatted and took a bunch of group pics just to kill time before the race starts.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Click on all the pics below to see a bigger version</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmY0jtv2oWbjMhgUTuxS0GLKjS1vRioDwcSsrOSr-7xjdf3IwlvZOKiLWYw939RAm23rs0Pzk26-mZO86RTH_RROp60k_8tMZo12E20SWkYdUUcS3ioMmdMPEez1jANvZIkNCyMbItzig/s1600/DSCN0754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmY0jtv2oWbjMhgUTuxS0GLKjS1vRioDwcSsrOSr-7xjdf3IwlvZOKiLWYw939RAm23rs0Pzk26-mZO86RTH_RROp60k_8tMZo12E20SWkYdUUcS3ioMmdMPEez1jANvZIkNCyMbItzig/s400/DSCN0754.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Maniacs invaded Malibu Marathon.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">About 5 mins before the race starts, my running friend Andrea grabbed me while I was having my pic taken with the Maniacs, I totally lost track of time with so many photo opportunities, oops. Andrea and I had decided to run together since we both wanted to finished Sub 4, we kept a pretty good pace right from the start, I got my Garmin with me and she had her split time on her wrist so we kept each other in pace.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4x7D9vHWH5yoCCyzNvqRdvnvXmmh-k7_wmDAVsJvOBLZKvw39tjzTW0RWF2fOKnX-9ZbYi-oFi35pTvatemHTLRJ4QdDF_x1gSZVQqNLrQIqt6HIYbDGvKRZyLVtUSNGfCYi-CD26jjI/s1600/DSCN0746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4x7D9vHWH5yoCCyzNvqRdvnvXmmh-k7_wmDAVsJvOBLZKvw39tjzTW0RWF2fOKnX-9ZbYi-oFi35pTvatemHTLRJ4QdDF_x1gSZVQqNLrQIqt6HIYbDGvKRZyLVtUSNGfCYi-CD26jjI/s320/DSCN0746.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Me and Andrea before the race.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJvZGx_KxfdqgQP8C4svOYNT5WZEVvtPKEIqm5TNyJyluw1g09Bkk0och1-wjMqS8BjTW4UzvSqj-3ZbHNLHTuc1CuYPe4vJo9cHoQdmMGWJ539NKd183XvSW7Ohfwt2SNEGHmwRwTNbc/s1600/DSCN0755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJvZGx_KxfdqgQP8C4svOYNT5WZEVvtPKEIqm5TNyJyluw1g09Bkk0och1-wjMqS8BjTW4UzvSqj-3ZbHNLHTuc1CuYPe4vJo9cHoQdmMGWJ539NKd183XvSW7Ohfwt2SNEGHmwRwTNbc/s320/DSCN0755.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Me and Yolanda "Walking Diva", she is on her way to Gueniess World Record of Most Marathons in a year by a female</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPg50kTH58t7xvzmPxWFMxF_fbICm50xSuDu_89gZVQOzF6iBbR7PseFTeIAHl9nyjywAbxix6g7Vp06WRhQXsFkH2ugwnKDbu7FLAMHMjOhwk_Z7Sb-xRUqcJZmTzaugiVGdBxOrnycE/s1600/DSCN0747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPg50kTH58t7xvzmPxWFMxF_fbICm50xSuDu_89gZVQOzF6iBbR7PseFTeIAHl9nyjywAbxix6g7Vp06WRhQXsFkH2ugwnKDbu7FLAMHMjOhwk_Z7Sb-xRUqcJZmTzaugiVGdBxOrnycE/s320/DSCN0747.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Me and Casey, our bib numbers were almost right next to each other.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJvZGx_KxfdqgQP8C4svOYNT5WZEVvtPKEIqm5TNyJyluw1g09Bkk0och1-wjMqS8BjTW4UzvSqj-3ZbHNLHTuc1CuYPe4vJo9cHoQdmMGWJ539NKd183XvSW7Ohfwt2SNEGHmwRwTNbc/s1600/DSCN0755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 1 - 8:12, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHhikfR4Tnm68y3X3xD8XLR9QWA5NMl3H8PiaDTc1EaY-ttkbgFGEp_PsnPMKoC60K4yzm3-_FJdOJN42wQLsR0Sq1Sp_qZBzOjyuX2Q4SPHe1WOPP1t0ZbkZXF7O7-NYbrb3apBWl_fM/s1600/DSCN0762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHhikfR4Tnm68y3X3xD8XLR9QWA5NMl3H8PiaDTc1EaY-ttkbgFGEp_PsnPMKoC60K4yzm3-_FJdOJN42wQLsR0Sq1Sp_qZBzOjyuX2Q4SPHe1WOPP1t0ZbkZXF7O7-NYbrb3apBWl_fM/s320/DSCN0762.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Saw this runner around Mile 2</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 2-8:30, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 3- 8:44, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 4-8:32, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 5-8:47, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 6-9:06, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 7-9:08, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 8-9:03, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 9-9:17, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 10-9:26 (started to run on PCH from this point on)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 11-9:19, (encounter a few headwinds right around this point)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 12-9:26, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 13-9:44, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Finished around <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">1:57.13</span></b> at halfway point</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 14-9:48, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXLYBOHIq_E7owE-UT95_5Mg8PQHeFwDMgwidTh4TaRwxI7q6EbOO6TVKX89u4RQcmwMoXriWwW114hjeAijd_cRW42enpf6LnbfpbrAklnqZAzq-kvUuPIOYXycu_JXN4PlYmlpWuujw/s1600/DSCN0776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXLYBOHIq_E7owE-UT95_5Mg8PQHeFwDMgwidTh4TaRwxI7q6EbOO6TVKX89u4RQcmwMoXriWwW114hjeAijd_cRW42enpf6LnbfpbrAklnqZAzq-kvUuPIOYXycu_JXN4PlYmlpWuujw/s400/DSCN0776.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Self served aid station around Mile 14, this is what happen when they dont have enough volunteers for the race.</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 15-10:08 </span></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 16-10:27, (Andrea started to slow down so she wanted me to move on to try to get in Sub 4)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 17-8:39, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 18-8:58, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 19-9:30, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 20-10:08, (a few sets of rolling hills started at this point)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 21-11:17, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 22-10:43, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 23-11:19, </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE0PtwsvdHkf2WysQTwRCXGat8cD8sbiWFoy74G91BvhDkUw6n8kORgHVNCHehtXI3qRHrVvDqjFnnJMINt4Vbqnb_yk5RXovbjT-kYw3rYkPmAikot2vl7IVDGI1l7WnteTP1HSXofOA/s1600/DSCN0781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE0PtwsvdHkf2WysQTwRCXGat8cD8sbiWFoy74G91BvhDkUw6n8kORgHVNCHehtXI3qRHrVvDqjFnnJMINt4Vbqnb_yk5RXovbjT-kYw3rYkPmAikot2vl7IVDGI1l7WnteTP1HSXofOA/s400/DSCN0781.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A runner was down around Mile 23, Ambulance arrived in no time.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 24-12:39 (all downhill after this point)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 25 -11:18, </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mile 26-9:46, (time to sprint to the finish!!!)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.2 Mile -1:03 <b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I finished in <span style="color: yellow;"><b>4:14.37</b></span><b style="color: yellow;">,</b>, which was almost about the same as last year when I finished in <b>4:13.27</b>, what a surprise!! Plus, I finished faster than previous week's NYC Marathon when I finished <b>4:21.11</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA0S391CnhNLnLUlk10b1cqRrBlot_aalIRNolv3PAZK4LJ_vQdC9vuqDpVenUJu4hy6RzHt_EEM04hwdIqNioHztdSz_gTN_ezSpN2p3DSz7rxAyKLLyctWV9nGlf10VxEtVg2VV7Qkc/s1600/malibu3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA0S391CnhNLnLUlk10b1cqRrBlot_aalIRNolv3PAZK4LJ_vQdC9vuqDpVenUJu4hy6RzHt_EEM04hwdIqNioHztdSz_gTN_ezSpN2p3DSz7rxAyKLLyctWV9nGlf10VxEtVg2VV7Qkc/s320/malibu3.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Overall I really like this challenging course, although the medal look exactly the same as the previous year, only the year and date were changed, but the towel and the bag were a nice touch. I would definitely run this again next year just because it finishes on the beach. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
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</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b>Next Race................... Death Valley Trail Marathon, 12-4-2010</b></span></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-88186616920628984702010-11-11T15:18:00.000-08:002010-11-11T20:23:29.418-08:00NYC Marathon 2010 Recap Part 2<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Saturday 11-6-10</span></b><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">Woke up early again just to get as much of NYC has to offer, and this time I decided to to check out the Empire State Building, They open at 8am so I went to the McDonald's right across the street from it and get myself some breakfast, coffee, free WiFi so I can update my facebook statue on my iPhone before I head to the building.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">When I walked in the building, there were already a few people lining up by the escalator to go to the top, they were mostly tourist, as so was I . I waited for around 10mins before they let us go up to the escalator, then to the security check point before we even get to the ticket booth, it was $21 for just the 86th floor, but for extra $15, you will get to go up to the 102nd floor for a even higher view, I only went for the 86th floor this time. So after I bought my ticket, the guy lead me to an elevator and told me the elevator will take me to 80th floor, then after that I will have to take a 2nd elevator to get to 86th floor, I was pretty much the first one to get in the elevator since the people infront of me were making a stop at the restroom. So when I stepped out of the elevator on the 86th, the guy told me that I was the first one to the top, I didnt get anything special for that but it was nice to know. It was really cold early morning once I walked to the observatory deck, it was like around 40 degree, I was glad I bought my gloves at the expo or my hands will be freezen.</div><br />
The view from the top was unbelieveble, I could see miles and miles from there, I walked around the building a few time and make sure I took enough pictures before leave.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZC5BKnceU2bCuV6vQFiLAiXP8cKJljGLs0ygSZpgNLev5Dd-roA2G4jon_CobMy5zvL3fK4-svKVYPYA6HyQAfXQOE8LXeSAjC-ED-M4OShzPkM6TQmBTRZ4THlajqH7VWFm2j10HSEs/s1600/IMG_7222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZC5BKnceU2bCuV6vQFiLAiXP8cKJljGLs0ygSZpgNLev5Dd-roA2G4jon_CobMy5zvL3fK4-svKVYPYA6HyQAfXQOE8LXeSAjC-ED-M4OShzPkM6TQmBTRZ4THlajqH7VWFm2j10HSEs/s400/IMG_7222.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWKQJNrBp9ddLkEkk8Cv7ryU4aXYqXcO7O3j7UwVZxOVACfMYjdqIed_DmJWBo-ac3uQr-JKsYovZLWtgKxKAacuqHPIv7DSbk-CCOdzuPpspKVCKjB3QSVENPYL8NRCeGMqCK_t7DP1Q/s1600/IMG_7253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWKQJNrBp9ddLkEkk8Cv7ryU4aXYqXcO7O3j7UwVZxOVACfMYjdqIed_DmJWBo-ac3uQr-JKsYovZLWtgKxKAacuqHPIv7DSbk-CCOdzuPpspKVCKjB3QSVENPYL8NRCeGMqCK_t7DP1Q/s400/IMG_7253.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I held on to my bib so it doesnt get blown away</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqcaIO2wDzBBc9JO0SprOicow7KRG_n_ELxWwZKjzePvPXzCePIFDEORcLtEG6QOBNN0MPe0JWOPToZvqgQ015IxaxGmBk5GsXmXES0TqbX80Bk58rpwvMmQyLYL3Gmw_vnuSgUtZ-mw/s1600/IMG_7245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqcaIO2wDzBBc9JO0SprOicow7KRG_n_ELxWwZKjzePvPXzCePIFDEORcLtEG6QOBNN0MPe0JWOPToZvqgQ015IxaxGmBk5GsXmXES0TqbX80Bk58rpwvMmQyLYL3Gmw_vnuSgUtZ-mw/s400/IMG_7245.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I stayed up there for almost 2 hours before I had to go and get ready to go back to the expo and meet Deena Kastor and Ryan Hall around noon. So I walked back to the hotel, changed a little bit and take the shuttle bus to the expo.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was glad to get to meet Deena Kastor and Ryan Hall again, plus Greta Waitz, 9 times winner of the NYC Marathon. I had all of them signed my bib also.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBX-h9Puy6QlwEp7L8y-0wIjcXuSfQ__l0hJj9zGmfuQkcs8Wfm_xRTuuYiK0WsBq6vXqizPh1fv0pXFHpI0f7r2xL2Z1TRRzUGyVDjV6TY54xOp6Kk1uLkWhyphenhyphen7wikV5ajyjYry1A4yLQ/s1600/deena.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBX-h9Puy6QlwEp7L8y-0wIjcXuSfQ__l0hJj9zGmfuQkcs8Wfm_xRTuuYiK0WsBq6vXqizPh1fv0pXFHpI0f7r2xL2Z1TRRzUGyVDjV6TY54xOp6Kk1uLkWhyphenhyphen7wikV5ajyjYry1A4yLQ/s400/deena.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Pre Race Dinner</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I met up with my Maniac buddy "Kino", who happens to lives in NY, and few of his friend for dinner at this little Italian restaurant nearby the Central Park, Their food and service was OK, nothing special to write about, no wonder they received a letter "C" for the health and safety inspection grade. After the dinner we all headed home and called it a night and get ready for the race in the morning.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR7X3PjBZJRq_wQLuoZYOGb-XAnQyG3nv7wLAUta6GOVxiIvW5cas5ELoC5beKGA7_6RcMp0S_o_qsPEm2qqM1uSSSGHt4uCyrQPeSFJe5y-Xi_l3YE5y3IGEOLZE38uzHytRSaTYy9Ks/s1600/dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR7X3PjBZJRq_wQLuoZYOGb-XAnQyG3nv7wLAUta6GOVxiIvW5cas5ELoC5beKGA7_6RcMp0S_o_qsPEm2qqM1uSSSGHt4uCyrQPeSFJe5y-Xi_l3YE5y3IGEOLZE38uzHytRSaTYy9Ks/s400/dinner.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Us four at the dinner, but only 3 of us were running the race the next day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Race Day 11-7-10</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><br />
</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Woke up at 4am, left our hotel by 5am, walked to the New York Public Library to get on the shuttle bus to the start. Got to the villages in Staten Island before 6am. I was suppose to go to my BLUE village, but my friend starts in ORANGE village, so I just stayed with her for awhile before I headed to my BLUE village.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Inside the Orange village, they have coffee, water, gatorade, baegals and powerbar for us to keep us warm and fed. Some even brought their sleeping bag to keep themselves warm since they wont start for another 3 hours!!! Some other were stay inside one huge tent, aka "refugee camp". We just sat outside on the grass by the light pole, the sun started to peak early morning.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaR6b12Ixa5EiPBNLrxpkE2eOUQ67P0gQ726VT5lJi1BiEHbdLpr3WDIHB1M9ALWSLaQvxvm6fvDrY34Ntij0Y-sg0kAv0K-fUtAW4AMg6yv3FtudZyHjKyR9JNfFMWggihnVKTVzpNn0/s1600/IMG_7342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaR6b12Ixa5EiPBNLrxpkE2eOUQ67P0gQ726VT5lJi1BiEHbdLpr3WDIHB1M9ALWSLaQvxvm6fvDrY34Ntij0Y-sg0kAv0K-fUtAW4AMg6yv3FtudZyHjKyR9JNfFMWggihnVKTVzpNn0/s400/IMG_7342.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">View of the Verrazano-Narrow Bridge early morning</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">By 7am, I started to head to my BLUE village to get ready since I have to check my gear by 8:10am. I saw even more runners hanging out while I was on my way there, some even brought their tents!! I went to check my bag early so I wont have to deal with it later on, so all I had on me was my race outfit, plus a t-shirt and my sweatpant to discard when the race starts. I figured those will keep me warm until then.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQiNIXZFvct5LQx79WNT0S7egr2BOv0tZySt4VYkArnrX3ACIvnrJKqaFHqUN7ulygjlDdQoaoeIEfydsNCZknK96D55zw1uujB4IBFOUPrtzVpQIbpuHpmnXQ9ZzIwQNefvcCwqeMMo/s1600/IMG_7347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQiNIXZFvct5LQx79WNT0S7egr2BOv0tZySt4VYkArnrX3ACIvnrJKqaFHqUN7ulygjlDdQoaoeIEfydsNCZknK96D55zw1uujB4IBFOUPrtzVpQIbpuHpmnXQ9ZzIwQNefvcCwqeMMo/s400/IMG_7347.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Runner gathers around hours before the start</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg1ASpXlOYP94u2AfeiASPYkHewWozMjOEbtclB6Y7ZTA_cn9Dlf_SLhXz3m6P3OHbn7D1NEV00arZFs_fDJaP-z656sWKgaaHfKPV4dbZNFz2deEHWapjtdqx9VAJrfGyzhEgIBrSs8s/s1600/IMG_7350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg1ASpXlOYP94u2AfeiASPYkHewWozMjOEbtclB6Y7ZTA_cn9Dlf_SLhXz3m6P3OHbn7D1NEV00arZFs_fDJaP-z656sWKgaaHfKPV4dbZNFz2deEHWapjtdqx9VAJrfGyzhEgIBrSs8s/s400/IMG_7350.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Runners inside the "Refugee Camp" before the race, looks like they just finished a marathon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi20iEaBsY7iVjfCefFjfAEkDekQSchbqxo0ZyQEHXvhj6iuuT1BfeolGe7ZiYJ860xFNdNX7aKDQD6BbakR4odkhmHvMDWQ8iYjrBiJcGlU4uKATeZD8k9V2JulHbi3DdWRguI8lmFexI/s1600/IMG_7354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi20iEaBsY7iVjfCefFjfAEkDekQSchbqxo0ZyQEHXvhj6iuuT1BfeolGe7ZiYJ860xFNdNX7aKDQD6BbakR4odkhmHvMDWQ8iYjrBiJcGlU4uKATeZD8k9V2JulHbi3DdWRguI8lmFexI/s400/IMG_7354.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This runner even brought his tent with him.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">About 8:45am, I got into my Corral since they will close at 8:55am, the race starts at 9:40am. Then around 9:15am, they open our corrals and let us make our way down to the entrance of the Verazano-Narrow bridge and wait for the start, people started to throw away their clothes on the side while they were making their way there, some were even taking a pit stop by the bushes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZW8N2YPNjAwZtBZLCSZBSUUR-qLG7m-KLxaeyh4UeGGOYqvZ-RllH1G465eT1GwZzVA7eur_ukJMRC8KJ-bcuNbHiOjsinLj7aeYdqrfAkrgnFq5G2t4xI5xILBuVo7eGAgypkwZdMag/s1600/IMG_7366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZW8N2YPNjAwZtBZLCSZBSUUR-qLG7m-KLxaeyh4UeGGOYqvZ-RllH1G465eT1GwZzVA7eur_ukJMRC8KJ-bcuNbHiOjsinLj7aeYdqrfAkrgnFq5G2t4xI5xILBuVo7eGAgypkwZdMag/s320/IMG_7366.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTT2Pykbz-ezg0W9v1NSml89NwslfbDpeGjINmvwtBedHoD3vaBmGeb2n54v29X2U2KY8iEX1nCVvtrp3IQ68aI98BTy-sGIBwgdmDCntnzjPRtVFhk0JHlI81JVUUhcCuuXPokwWLYi8/s1600/IMG_7380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTT2Pykbz-ezg0W9v1NSml89NwslfbDpeGjINmvwtBedHoD3vaBmGeb2n54v29X2U2KY8iEX1nCVvtrp3IQ68aI98BTy-sGIBwgdmDCntnzjPRtVFhk0JHlI81JVUUhcCuuXPokwWLYi8/s320/IMG_7380.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The race started around 9:40am, it was a thrill running on the bridge will thousands of runners, I can't help but kept taking pictures of the bridge and the runners infront and behind me, I can feel the vibration of the bridge with so many people running on it. I told myself I will stop taking picture after the first mile, then I will just concentrate on the race, hopefully I could PR. I tried to run on the right side of the road just in case I need to stop and take pictures. The view from the bridge was amazing, I wish I could just stop and admire the beauty of the view, but I gotta keep going. I was going a very good pace, maybe faster than 4 hour pace, I was suppose to run at a 9min pace, but I think I was running a 8min pace, I didnt want to slow down cuz I was feeling good and comfortable at that pace, at least for awhile. Below are my mile by mile split time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdg01bsiVRImfkTz5Ei1OhcNIugsFG7PqeUPETgAX8EI3gT6PQSIa7TBJ9IbyREbGWXf8kU-n8RBah7sK5KL678XRTQKv7IjkkO6uee8NdB9_1x2pXidhL2SvPXb7yWBGUco_UXhRBJfg/s1600/IMG_7394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdg01bsiVRImfkTz5Ei1OhcNIugsFG7PqeUPETgAX8EI3gT6PQSIa7TBJ9IbyREbGWXf8kU-n8RBah7sK5KL678XRTQKv7IjkkO6uee8NdB9_1x2pXidhL2SvPXb7yWBGUco_UXhRBJfg/s400/IMG_7394.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqJxxcgXEn5VXJ3VnFW1a2-b1S5bWJfn4VFhJULV2N28wsgWONgbwRjuIAF8B-tpY2YO_CufvbR1Si9c1BPGdOdbHfSLH0yjRY0hmF3XxV_N8h6qh5TkOggpDjJD6JKeYU8NaiyYUiVpE/s1600/IMG_7404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqJxxcgXEn5VXJ3VnFW1a2-b1S5bWJfn4VFhJULV2N28wsgWONgbwRjuIAF8B-tpY2YO_CufvbR1Si9c1BPGdOdbHfSLH0yjRY0hmF3XxV_N8h6qh5TkOggpDjJD6JKeYU8NaiyYUiVpE/s400/IMG_7404.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 1 - 10:15 </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 2 -7:13</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 3 - 7:56</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 4 - 8:04</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 5 - 7:59</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 6 - 8:00</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 7 - 8:08</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 8 - 8:21</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 9 - 8:25</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 10 - 8:24</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 11 - 8:50</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 12 - 8:37</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 13 - 8:41 ( had to run up this hill at this point.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Finished in <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">1:50.35</span></b> at halfway point</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 14 - 9:05</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 15 - 10:27</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 16 - 11:40 (had to use the restroom after coming off the Queensborough Bridge.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 17 - 10:48 ( feeling really tired and sleepy from this point on.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 18 - 12:06</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 19 - 15:10</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 20 - 11:28</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 21 - 11:50</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 22 - 10:37 (start running inside Central Park, crowds were everywhere!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 23 - 11:56 (3 more miles to go, I was almost done!!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 24 - 11:51</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 25 - 11:50</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 26 - 10:23 (start giving high fiving to people on the side. =-))</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">.2 Mile - 3.17</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYLVVFt0l4nuOXYNf81bF086m3qCOza6bAY6oUQthB513zUBtZbeo4tcJTdntCh3UajIqplkojxrlxeLHYFOWbq1Epn8jn6zcYnWnYTba46Oj-c8hgYhPwdTbLCYXlJ13RqgQssuY8RI/s1600/IMG_7435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYLVVFt0l4nuOXYNf81bF086m3qCOza6bAY6oUQthB513zUBtZbeo4tcJTdntCh3UajIqplkojxrlxeLHYFOWbq1Epn8jn6zcYnWnYTba46Oj-c8hgYhPwdTbLCYXlJ13RqgQssuY8RI/s400/IMG_7435.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I finished in <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">4:21.11</span></b>, my goal was to go Sub 4, but with all those little hills here and there, I will accept my time, plus I had a lot of fun, I didnt want to finish when I crossed the finish line. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After we finished, we still had to walk forever just to get out of the park, runner with high bib number get to get their gear earlier than us with a lower numbers, so I had to walk pretty much ALL the way to the end to get my bag since my bib number was 4083. AND after I got my bag I STILL have to walk for a long time to get to the subway, but I didnt end up getting on it, I just kept walking back to the hotel, plus I did pick up some food on the way.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Overall I really enjoyed NYC Marathon, the aid stations were awesome, none of them were more than a mile apart so I didnt have to carry my own bottle. The crowds were also amazing, I havent seen so many crowds since Chicago Marathon. I will definately want to run this one again whenever I got in the lottery again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b>Next Race......................Malibu International Marathon, 11-1-2010</b></span></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-77631130537110957362010-11-10T14:33:00.000-08:002010-11-10T14:33:38.144-08:00NYC Marathon 2010 Recap Part 1This is my <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">15th</span> </b>marathon this year and <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">71th</span></b> overall.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmq-P0mrkt5Rse-vN3xIaq7ei3xlYr-A8zjXhVwi8pTAST_cPWKFeC5MtLETHzeU9ryZzsciYW7HcjXaSIF3mDS-65pvh43bP1aUlDjQ4SS1E2IjYuLH3kppAUSbYKwknWzltgcK4WMWw/s1600/DSCN0745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmq-P0mrkt5Rse-vN3xIaq7ei3xlYr-A8zjXhVwi8pTAST_cPWKFeC5MtLETHzeU9ryZzsciYW7HcjXaSIF3mDS-65pvh43bP1aUlDjQ4SS1E2IjYuLH3kppAUSbYKwknWzltgcK4WMWw/s400/DSCN0745.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">WOW!!! I still cant' believe that I got the chance to run the NYC Marathon!! Every year many runners got rejected from the lottery system, I was very lucky to be picked on my first attempt. I didnt really expected to be picked cuz I know my chances were very slim, but I was glad to say "I'M IN!"</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After I found out that I was accepted to run the NYC Marathon, I was thinking about postponed it until 2012 because once I got accepted, I could postpone it as many years as I want with quarantee entry, but I will still have to pay th entry fee. Because I have 3 other races in October that I have to run so I didnt want to travel too much and have to miss work. But my mind changed a few months later that I would rather run a double that weekend in Indiana and West Virginia, I registered for both races but haven't booked my flight and hotel yet.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">THEN about 2 weeks before the NYC Marathon, I had my mind changed again and decided that I really should run the NYC Marathon, I would be stupid not to run it once I got IN!! Many people are dying to run this race and that is no way I would skip this opportunity, plus I dont want to waste my money to have it pushed till 2012, that would be REALLY stupid.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So just A week before NYC Marathon, I made my flight reservation and motel stay thru Priceline.com(for flight and Travelocity.com(for hotel). I did a lot of searching and finally found the flights, price, location that I wanted.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Wednesday 11-3-10</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Catching an early flight from LAX to Philadelphia for a connection flight to New York at La Guardia Airport(LGA). When I arrived at LGA, it was around 5:15pm local time, I went to the Ground Transportation counter to wait for my shuttle from SuperShuttle to take me to my hotel, they are only $19 each way!! Way cheaper than taking the taxi, although they had to drop other people off on the way, it's still worth it. They got to my hotel an hour later, and I was glad I wasnt driving in NY cuz the traffic was INSANE!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I checked in this Hostel call Gershwin Hotel, they are only $39 a night, but of course it's a dormitory style with bunk beds, so I had to share a room AND bathroom with other people, which I didnt mind since I wont be doing a lot of sleeping anyway. =-)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Thursday 11-4-10</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Woke up at 7:30am, left my hostel by 8am and walked to the convention center to catch my tour bus for the marathon course tour that I signed up a few days ago, it was drizzling that morning, plus a bit strong wind, my weak umbrella was blown out of shape!! The marathon tour lasted 4 hours from 9am to 1pm, the tour guide talked thru the whole course and told us the history behind all the popular landmark, It starts from Staten Island, then to Brooklyn, then to Queen, then to the Bronx, then to the finish in Central Park in Manhattan. It was a very fun 4 hours ride, I couldnt have driven the course myself if I was driving, plus the rain would make it even impossible.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiF7p9uSY6xMqU5Z8feXXnEVoXFQuqHq87weppC12je7SuZiyNQceoq-wHX7dOXPbAcmiqQura6Fl8_YFe32dFXeFNyg_c4CxqdfirdepIgGRHYX-6_iuRF5CDcC0hSWPN6gI7sfJSt-A/s1600/IMG_7027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiF7p9uSY6xMqU5Z8feXXnEVoXFQuqHq87weppC12je7SuZiyNQceoq-wHX7dOXPbAcmiqQura6Fl8_YFe32dFXeFNyg_c4CxqdfirdepIgGRHYX-6_iuRF5CDcC0hSWPN6gI7sfJSt-A/s320/IMG_7027.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Sitting at our tour bus</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6Z2ufGOPrUIWASAQIXhsmGXPAVKJGmACbJShZ3Iob4IvONCiJjFZpwavhoMhYJL1D-52LWdyhFukdou27Fzk3SNmQb_xU-YXKCWxZQ4A8NfAgsUAEMbNxfpqFZAbUSEXPWymHJQRHN4/s1600/IMG_7032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6Z2ufGOPrUIWASAQIXhsmGXPAVKJGmACbJShZ3Iob4IvONCiJjFZpwavhoMhYJL1D-52LWdyhFukdou27Fzk3SNmQb_xU-YXKCWxZQ4A8NfAgsUAEMbNxfpqFZAbUSEXPWymHJQRHN4/s320/IMG_7032.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Passing by Chelsea Piers during the tour</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After the tour I went to the expo and pick up my bib and everything. I was kind of suprised that the expo was as big as I thought it would be, I finished within an hour. All I bought was a apir of ASICS gloves with all 5 boroughs name on the fingers, and a few packs of Gel blasts from Powerbar, they actually came back with the cola flavor, which I LOVED!! I walked/ran back to my hostel afterward, which was only less than 2 miles. I didnt know how to take the bus since I dont know which bus I should take, so I just decided to walk instead.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Friday 11-5-10</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Woke up early cuz I had to meet up with my friend Lan at her hotel, she just took an red-eye flight from CA, we went to get some breakfast at this restaurant call Maxie, our omelettes were really good, a bit over priced but it was worth it. I decided to check out my hostel and stay in her room till after the race, so that saved me $80. =-) They werent allow us to check in early, but we could leave our luggages with them and pick them up when we check in later on.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My plans for the day were to visit the Status of Liberty Island, plus the Ellis Island. Then attend the New York Knicks vs the Washington Wizards game at night.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So around 12pm I took the subway down to the Staten Island Ferry station and took the ferry to the Islands, but when I got there, there was a LONG line waiting for the ferry ride because everyone had to go thru the airport-style security check before hand, so we all have to remove our jacket and everything and go thru the metal detector machine. It was really a hassle but I guess it's better safe than sorry.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTEP2r6xTd56OZuxS80qUKibAbTrXh6YvAtPW56xFBiiUJDrFePVAxNxV5T2HxG_jA55-ry5TzNPsBBQuCrAxUjZTWBXBMK-Z2dnYPPb9tYc9q_etvar9g4LlP0ANnKMzpjGcFVcooE4E/s1600/IMG_7106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTEP2r6xTd56OZuxS80qUKibAbTrXh6YvAtPW56xFBiiUJDrFePVAxNxV5T2HxG_jA55-ry5TzNPsBBQuCrAxUjZTWBXBMK-Z2dnYPPb9tYc9q_etvar9g4LlP0ANnKMzpjGcFVcooE4E/s320/IMG_7106.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZk96nEQCsXdF8qvUMECHuA8F5VX_sniTx9FIwYZ10gmBAblWuqEniZX8t_-PjQem2olC-pIYjS1pzt8gFaTYKrjwFm4n0_37pC1xsNn8HoyKqps0M5dCmVbTK1rPPoswNbkmMvt18rsY/s1600/IMG_7110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZk96nEQCsXdF8qvUMECHuA8F5VX_sniTx9FIwYZ10gmBAblWuqEniZX8t_-PjQem2olC-pIYjS1pzt8gFaTYKrjwFm4n0_37pC1xsNn8HoyKqps0M5dCmVbTK1rPPoswNbkmMvt18rsY/s320/IMG_7110.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5GL0j_TBY8_C68bUt0RlQ9RGY_LLFW_DG85GuziyRU5OAGQD2N_WfxKr-ezkSlI1E4rtZVaO38xOgkXx6uAQntwpb081vRRg0JV2I0RcuLZn8GbwMBbfVZCRJ-uIKf7wjDw9g6O9Uct8/s1600/IMG_7136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5GL0j_TBY8_C68bUt0RlQ9RGY_LLFW_DG85GuziyRU5OAGQD2N_WfxKr-ezkSlI1E4rtZVaO38xOgkXx6uAQntwpb081vRRg0JV2I0RcuLZn8GbwMBbfVZCRJ-uIKf7wjDw9g6O9Uct8/s320/IMG_7136.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When I got back from to the Staten Island Ferry station from Ellis Island, it was around 5:30pm, I took the subway back to the Time Square station and walked back to my hostel and get ready for the Knick game. Since everywhere are so close by, I walked to the Madison Square Garden just in time for the tip off, they were passing out t-shirt while we were walking up to our sections. My seat was in the 1st row of the upper level, so sometimes people were walking by many time kind of blocking the view just a little, but I did have a good view of the court from the end. The Knick won that game 112-91.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>To Be Continued......................</b></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-43088424756045479952010-10-21T12:02:00.000-07:002010-10-21T20:31:54.345-07:00Inaugural Rock n Roll Denver Marathon Recap<div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">This is my <span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: yellow;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">14th</span></span></b> </span>marathon this year and <span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: yellow;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><u>70th</u></span></span></b> </span>marathon overall</div></div></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Thursday 10-14-10</span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">After my connecting flight out of Salt Lake City was canceled, they put us on a standby for the next flight to Denver, unfortunately, I wasnt able to get a seat in that flight since it was full. SO, I had to wait for the NEXT available flight and hope I will get a seat then. So I waited by the ticket counter and hoping they will call my name, then finally that guy called my name and I was on my way to Denver, FINALLY!!</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></b></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><b></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;"><b></b></span><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Friday 10-15-10</span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">I decided to go check out Pikes Peak early in the morning and see how tough it is to hike up to the summit. It was only about an hour drive from where I stayed so it was a short drive. I arrived at the bottom of the trailhead called Barr Trail at around 9am, I was carrying a water bottle and a sling bag with my jacket since they said it could get chilly up there above 10,000 feet..</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9Yl4AoY7M_CrH3B6EyfCrKJ7xeC3gupMn9HdRuSVkwldOBw9PTRIufTen_I3kzXyLfs2uzDEnouFxFwqZoPZ-Lx4hbrUJkVTIK2dyuRGvtlrTzok-j32U39X-Zq5kFTGzZRlKLWF8eM/s1600/DSCN0250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9Yl4AoY7M_CrH3B6EyfCrKJ7xeC3gupMn9HdRuSVkwldOBw9PTRIufTen_I3kzXyLfs2uzDEnouFxFwqZoPZ-Lx4hbrUJkVTIK2dyuRGvtlrTzok-j32U39X-Zq5kFTGzZRlKLWF8eM/s320/DSCN0250.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After about 6 miles into the hike the elevation had reach 10,000 feet, it took me about 2 hours just to finished 6 miles hike, 7 more miles till to the top, it sounds like easy, but it isnt. Around 8 miles there was this campsite call Barr Camp where people could camp there, they have restroom and first aid station there also. I stopped to use the restroom and continued my journey. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">While I was hiking there were snow on the side of the trail, so I grabbed a handfull of snow and put them on my head, my neck, my knees to cool myself off, it felt REALLY good. Then around 9 miles, I came across this place call Timberline Shelter, a.k.a "A Frame", so I followed down the trail and check out this little A-Frame house.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VVqGjy-KQsX4EF_lw5QZUWdJ3Q0vLIhr2Mhf0Pi07453GtB3TC-G6eDac74dktlXc7KDFjp4vCuJt5FDVU937Z-RfqQlD-euxYAcbSjpEZAdzwcPABtryrBvz1dWNyWiGnSTfGGB-d0/s1600/DSCN0274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VVqGjy-KQsX4EF_lw5QZUWdJ3Q0vLIhr2Mhf0Pi07453GtB3TC-G6eDac74dktlXc7KDFjp4vCuJt5FDVU937Z-RfqQlD-euxYAcbSjpEZAdzwcPABtryrBvz1dWNyWiGnSTfGGB-d0/s320/DSCN0274.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;">The A-Frame at Timberline Shelter at 9 Miles</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">With 3 miles to go, it only got tougher and I was getting really tired, every steps felt like a dead man walking, I was breathing heavy, I stopped and sat at every shade that I could find and catch my breath, it was around mid afternoon but felt cool even when the sun was up. Then with 1 mile to go, the time was around 4pm, I knew I had to get back down to the trailhead before it gets dark, so after hiking for another 15 mins, I decided to headed back down without getting to the top of the summit because I knew the sunset was around 6:30pm. =-(</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjquVQSRLwR2Ikae8agxUO3-CX11NygIutYpqlVdF_YIt02FgLCl_kkDwnjdUo0ZsmBjhE4v-RtSzgXg-ZqGa5f-Hm6Lq2MR7b_vW4S1Ocw1W2WHHGTKqO9nOfBjK4cfYa10rJXCdY3Ih4/s1600/DSCN0290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjquVQSRLwR2Ikae8agxUO3-CX11NygIutYpqlVdF_YIt02FgLCl_kkDwnjdUo0ZsmBjhE4v-RtSzgXg-ZqGa5f-Hm6Lq2MR7b_vW4S1Ocw1W2WHHGTKqO9nOfBjK4cfYa10rJXCdY3Ih4/s320/DSCN0290.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;">There were even snows on trail.</div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">When I was making my way down, I tried to make a short cut by just walking down the hills without following the trail, BIG MISTAKE!!! I ended up not knowing where I was because I couldnt find the trail!!! I made my way thru the tree branches and bushes and bamboo sticks and still couldnt find the trail, I was nervous and thought I would ended up spending the night in the bush if I couldnt find my way down. But I tried to stay calm and figured if I keep find my way down, I will eventually hit the trail, so I continued to make my way down thru the trees and rocks and everything, I FINALLY found the trail and decided to just stick with the trail and forget about making another short cuts. It was easier to run down the trial since the elevation started to drop, I was able to run a mile or two before I stop and catch my breath, then I continued the run and walk and get back down as soon as possible. With about 2 miles to go, the sunset was already set and I could BARELY see the trail, so I just took it slow and just walked till the bottom of the trail. When I got down to the trailhead, it was already 7:30pm. I spent pretty much the whole day on the trail, I guess that's the way to get used to the elevation 2 days before the marathon. =-)</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJTCvf0CdncpmPJYA5Ln_KUCowwBN6WWJVSnfI6gw3ejjGJvrZIHHqbOc5BCcvSdVD4yRGD8Ue-KyqIQFsNRUfDUbLO8w-djKSzlbXf6aoJkhhdtKbGNO84gM9hW0ZDbWo-W2BzVngvQc/s1600/DSCN0286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJTCvf0CdncpmPJYA5Ln_KUCowwBN6WWJVSnfI6gw3ejjGJvrZIHHqbOc5BCcvSdVD4yRGD8Ue-KyqIQFsNRUfDUbLO8w-djKSzlbXf6aoJkhhdtKbGNO84gM9hW0ZDbWo-W2BzVngvQc/s320/DSCN0286.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;">It was about 13,000 ft but I decided to head back down, the milege was wrong</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Saturday 10-16-10</span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">I decided to take the light rail to the expo since the closest station was only a few miles from where I stayed, plus it was only $2 each way, way cheaper than park in downtown.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">The expo was a little bit smaller than a usual RNR expo, I only bought the RNR Denver Luggage Tag and the iFitness waist belt, which was a very good investment because it was very light weight and I didnt feel like I wasnt carry it while I was running, I was debating whether I should get the Splitbelt or iFitness, but I am glad I chose iFitness over Splitbelt since iFitness is sweatproof.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Carbo load Meal</span></b></u></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">I ordered the chicken alfredo pasta with cheesesticks and 10 pieces honey BBQ wings from Pizza Hut as my carbo load dinner, but of course I save the wings as my post race food.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Race Day - 10-17-10</span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">The race starts at 6:55am , I decided to just take the 4:50am light rail again to downtown and just walk to the start, which was only half a mile. It was about 50 degree in the morning, a lot of runners were gathered at the staging area, I walked around and saw the runners were lining up for free coffee, so I got in line and got myself a cup to keep me warm and awake. Then I headed to drop my gear bag off nearby since they didnt have the UPS truck for this RNR event, they just put the bags in an open grass area by the concert stage. I bumped into my Maniac buddy Emil at the drop off table, he was wearing his Maniac shirt so I was easily recognize him from behind. We then made our way thru the sea of runners to our starting Corral #4 and get ready for nice cool race.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiYSXoyGNOrsjAYVNbz4c15ns93HMqYV3vcrCJey-Eo9lSaJp5qetcjOQyZHt_q2-bySanps4GsgTQ04owMs0zEJ3O5zrdPnmcvxqOBEWC4Leza8DycQZDsq4PrDI0ErxFMdB1uHiv9Yg/s1600/DSCN0363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiYSXoyGNOrsjAYVNbz4c15ns93HMqYV3vcrCJey-Eo9lSaJp5qetcjOQyZHt_q2-bySanps4GsgTQ04owMs0zEJ3O5zrdPnmcvxqOBEWC4Leza8DycQZDsq4PrDI0ErxFMdB1uHiv9Yg/s320/DSCN0363.JPG" width="320" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;">me and Emil before the race.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My goal for the race was 4 hrs, so I was planning to follow the 4 hour pace group, but since the 4 hr pace group was in the corral behind me, I figured I would just run my own pace and jump on the pace group later on when they pass by me.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">After the race started, I wanted to keep my pace around 9:00 min/mile so I could finish around 4 hours, I didnt carry my usual water bottle with me because I knew they have aid stations every 2 miles or so, so I just carried my disposable bottle for the first half and throw away once I finished the bottle, I found out later I seems to run faster without the bottle with me. At around Mile 4, the volunteers at the aid stations were dressed in tuxedo with bow tie and fake mustache, kind of looks like waiter/ress outfit, very creative, too bad I didnt get a picture of them cuz I didnt want to stop. We ran thru a few local parks throughout the course and it was nice to see the Relay race happen at the same time, the full and the half ran together for the first 12 miles before we split up. There were a few turnarounds during the course, so I got to see the runners who were infront of me and behind me.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">At about Mile 19, I started to slow down a bit and started to take a little walking break, then I found out the 4:00 pace group were not far behind me, so I just waited for them to pass by and jumped on the wagon and hopefully they will pull me thru. I followed them for about 2 miles and I couldnt catch up anymore, so I decided to slow down and run on my own from then on. I took at least 2 to 3 cups of water/cytomax at every aid stations, I think it was because of the altitude that made me even more thirsty, I even pour some on my head to cool myself down, it wasn't too hot but it was around the 70's I would say. After Mile 20, I knew my chance of finishing under 4 hours was out of the question, so I just hoping for a sub 4:15.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIbpr03R-Z0zeTuBYvQuBfd6k0bmx5o6ToXhrLIleCyqAD-fOFeE4wU2HhG4hHXP9Ne4qE8qYjzVum2dxrXUpy7-hJqywYGqxa6o3eDrM_jC_sV0jpce4OBf-nkZWcqc8qezSJejany4/s1600/DSCN0394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIbpr03R-Z0zeTuBYvQuBfd6k0bmx5o6ToXhrLIleCyqAD-fOFeE4wU2HhG4hHXP9Ne4qE8qYjzVum2dxrXUpy7-hJqywYGqxa6o3eDrM_jC_sV0jpce4OBf-nkZWcqc8qezSJejany4/s320/DSCN0394.JPG" width="240" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;">One mile to go</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">With 3 miles left to go, we have this out and back hill that we had to run thru, nobody likes hill at this late of the race, but I just tried to run/jogg whenever I could. Then with 1 mile to go, I was very excited that I was about to finish, so I just started to run the final mile, when I got to the corner and ready to make a left turn to the finish, I could see the finish line ahead of me, the people on either side were cheering for us, I started to run a little faster toward the finish line, then I raised my hands up and crossed the finish line at <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">4:09.45</span></span></b>. A Sub 4:10 finish.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">They had a lot of good food at the finish line, I was able to grab a box and just get whatever they have there, chips, oranges, Cytomax drink, etc.. I then went to grab my checked bag and changed and listen to Semisonic at the post race concert area with my delicious wings from Pizza Hut the night before. =-)</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Overall I really like this race, it was pretty flat, not a lot of hills, the volunteers were awesome, I had a lot of fun, I really like how they finish around the Stage Capitol. If the expo is bigger next time, I would love to return.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<b>My Splits</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mile 1- 8:52 Mile 14 - 8:55<br />
Mile 2 - 8:55 Mile 15 - 9:47<br />
Mile 3 - 9:13 Mile 16 - 8:56<br />
Mile 4 - 9:01 Mile 17 - 9:16<br />
Mile 5 - 9:03 Mile 18 - 9:42 <br />
Mile 6 - 8:45 Mile 19 - 10:07<br />
Mile 7 - 9:03 Mile 20 - 9:23<br />
Mile 8 - 8:58 Mile 21 - 8:54<br />
Mile 9 - 9:08 Mile 22 - 10:19<br />
Mile 10 - 9:14 Mile 23 - 9:28<br />
Mile 11 - 9:31 Mile 24 - 10:47<br />
Mile 12 - 9:04 Mile 25 - 10:19<br />
Mile 13 - 9:11 Mile 26 - 10:06<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHMgrzmvJKz4JlM68y9BgwNol24EfJ4HYP5qHHSOX8vB9GNB4IjBotQcqd3zQzmNYvasq2KZrCjzMVlzu3qtWTgfkjXU_RY2XluiLLu7pCCVB4MQBpYEQi7asvRg4uVB0xac5syeQRcag/s1600/IMG_6126.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHMgrzmvJKz4JlM68y9BgwNol24EfJ4HYP5qHHSOX8vB9GNB4IjBotQcqd3zQzmNYvasq2KZrCjzMVlzu3qtWTgfkjXU_RY2XluiLLu7pCCVB4MQBpYEQi7asvRg4uVB0xac5syeQRcag/s320/IMG_6126.PNG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih4e4NWRVVgsc9Xns4Zl7WkwH9yjhdx34juYbn_KGTFss2QUJHEiCVRD648MTpsYwS_dnysFCp9dsfugI9CerTk4bT8n1ZcgOQf3UKKc0dpLcgylGvOy26dfzbv1nyljqYUX7qXXpNO2E/s1600/IMG_6122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih4e4NWRVVgsc9Xns4Zl7WkwH9yjhdx34juYbn_KGTFss2QUJHEiCVRD648MTpsYwS_dnysFCp9dsfugI9CerTk4bT8n1ZcgOQf3UKKc0dpLcgylGvOy26dfzbv1nyljqYUX7qXXpNO2E/s320/IMG_6122.JPG" width="240" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Next Race.................................Rock n Roll Los Angeles Half Marathon 10-24-2010</span></i></b></div></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-62742085197906201752010-10-13T05:54:00.000-07:002010-10-13T05:58:27.901-07:00Mother Road Marathon RecapThis is my <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">13th</span></b> marathon this year and <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">69th</span></b> marathon overall<br />
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I signed up for the Mother Road Marathon just a few days after the registration was opened earlier this year, since they said it is their inagural race, I made no second thoughts about running this race. Still cant believe it was already here.<br />
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The Mother Road Marathon is located in Joplin, MO, I did a few researches and found out the best and cheaper way to get to Joplin was to fly to Kansas City, Mo and drive around 200 miles down to Joplin. I didnt mind the drive so I decided that will be my plan.<br />
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<b>Thursday and Friday - 10/7 - 10/8/10</b><br />
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After catching a red eye flight from LAX to Minneapolis to Kansas City, I was in KC early morning, the first thing I wanted to do was drive over to this place in downtown KC call <b>College Basketball Experience</b>, it's a place where they have everything about college basketball history from the begining to present, signed basketball, trophies were displayed in the lobby, plus they have a full court basketball upstair so people can play some pickup games. You could shoot free throws, 3-pointers, dunking a basketball on a lowered basketball. It was a basketball heaven for any basketball fan. I was there for almost 4 hrs playing basketball and make sure I play all the games there. Since it was an early weekday, I was pretty much the only one there so I felt like I got this basketball heaven all by myself.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also went a few museums there and took some pics while I was there</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh41pC9V0YIQmjGy9FR4GXbcUMkZ7K9cRPLFELTcc0feo18Fam2VK4iYT5jfp1z1kbUqlLr5e7Dd_hg63qpvKgudJ3FXKAKpX6iJKCLI7chdRkomT9AU17El2qjtkVr0b_Cwxo5eIlFlxE/s1600/IMG_6047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh41pC9V0YIQmjGy9FR4GXbcUMkZ7K9cRPLFELTcc0feo18Fam2VK4iYT5jfp1z1kbUqlLr5e7Dd_hg63qpvKgudJ3FXKAKpX6iJKCLI7chdRkomT9AU17El2qjtkVr0b_Cwxo5eIlFlxE/s320/IMG_6047.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ihlO4_HJ7oC3ztIQPerq6y129iF3gIG8q319e1uxXQbRPxk0FGbUuYibrN-TQiLnbXYkzXHyy6VwDndXpMlhLYmVFH2Hp6jjUTp5EN0RozOA8vJqCSnFyAlEL0GUBUg-vUmqBVrBx64/s1600/IMG_6073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ihlO4_HJ7oC3ztIQPerq6y129iF3gIG8q319e1uxXQbRPxk0FGbUuYibrN-TQiLnbXYkzXHyy6VwDndXpMlhLYmVFH2Hp6jjUTp5EN0RozOA8vJqCSnFyAlEL0GUBUg-vUmqBVrBx64/s320/IMG_6073.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifLeW0BCBUpJoA-EiA5v7fhwuQv6JGs02Kpv8J1hCpgngi2MT3khvvSZi7FaZUyAYMITVvKEwJO8Ysek5hsOfL5mgsojZA2NAMbLXBkvUBRtO0gHULCyYaVWL1_Wa4hNo79kVgAs-ZO80/s1600/IMG_6053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifLeW0BCBUpJoA-EiA5v7fhwuQv6JGs02Kpv8J1hCpgngi2MT3khvvSZi7FaZUyAYMITVvKEwJO8Ysek5hsOfL5mgsojZA2NAMbLXBkvUBRtO0gHULCyYaVWL1_Wa4hNo79kVgAs-ZO80/s320/IMG_6053.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Saturday - 10/9/10</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I got up early and drove 3 1/2 hrs down to Joplin, MO to the packet pick up inside the Joplin Musuem, it was a nice smooth drive with no traffic on a 2 lanes highway, saw a lot of roadkills though.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The expo was really small, it was just inside a small room with only 2 vendors, I was out within 15mins, I bought a poster and 3 ROUTE 66 pins, each represent the state of Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri, since it runs thru 8 states, I need to collect 5 more to collect. =-)</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuf4JAbs9a1m2mm5lRL-8-WnVEnZKMDyonzmLQ5ogqVlz-GV7wMcpJZ0VsBcmIjl-m5jJfJ120xIYbogBuocZu9kDhP5AeXYIkiI4QlHjtV6Vkco_tpN3tXgQuWvPXvP1DNCcwFAEPmFQ/s1600/IMG_6080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuf4JAbs9a1m2mm5lRL-8-WnVEnZKMDyonzmLQ5ogqVlz-GV7wMcpJZ0VsBcmIjl-m5jJfJ120xIYbogBuocZu9kDhP5AeXYIkiI4QlHjtV6Vkco_tpN3tXgQuWvPXvP1DNCcwFAEPmFQ/s320/IMG_6080.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">So after I was done with the expo, I decided to drive to Wichita, KS, cuz I heard they have another marathon expo also happen on the same weekend. So I drove ANOTHER 3 1/2 hours east of Joplin and arrived at the expo just a little over an hour before it closes at 5pm. The reason I wanted to drive to this expo was because I heard Dane Rauschenberg will be there at the pasta dinner, he also was the guy running 52 marathons in a year a few years back. So I got his book signed and he was kind enough to give me a few poster of him. I was able to listen to his speech at the pasta dinner at the Hyatt Hotel right across the parking lots from the expo, the speech alone was well worth the long hour drive, he was very entertaining talking about how he got into running and the ups and downs on his journey of his 52 marathons in a year.</span></div><div style="text-align: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmfn0p3fjchl0MjShBEgqD3LcTwDZOn9Zu37u6WnJip9GntOu9J0AwshYHOoW4AbMTnhs9cFNIsd4etczL0jyk-xkPQXc0AiVFzMkPel7XWztzBf5Mz2UnZcm7Sn_Xe9-zHXw_uG6AFbw/s1600/RSCN0222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmfn0p3fjchl0MjShBEgqD3LcTwDZOn9Zu37u6WnJip9GntOu9J0AwshYHOoW4AbMTnhs9cFNIsd4etczL0jyk-xkPQXc0AiVFzMkPel7XWztzBf5Mz2UnZcm7Sn_Xe9-zHXw_uG6AFbw/s400/RSCN0222.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I drove 3 1/2 hrs just to meet him again, he is an awesome runner.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You can follow Dane at <a href="http://danerunsalot.blogspot.com/">http://danerunsalot.blogspot.com/</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After the pasta dinner, I decided to drive BACK to Joplin to rest up for rest day, yup, that's ANOTHER 3 1/2 hours drive.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Race Day - 10/10/10</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I actually slept in my rental car in the parking lot where the finish area was, which was a few blocks from the Joplin Museum at the Sports Complex, they told us we could park there and take the shuttle to the start. I was there early so when I got there, I realized there wasnt much cars there, I thought I was at a wrong spot, but later on the cars started to arrived. After a quick change and got everything ready, I was headed to the shuttle bus, since I parked at the finish line, I didnt have to bring any bag to be checked.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Around 6am I boarded the bus to the start, they actually have 2 buses, one for the full and one for the half. About half an hour into the drive, the driver actually got lost and couldnt find the way to the start, then one of the runner on the bus was offering some directions cuz he said he drove around the area a lot, that seems to helped a little, but they finally had to ask one of the officers on the street to guided us to the start. What a joy ride!! We got there about 45 mins till the 8am starts, so many of us were either sitting on the sidewalks killing time or sitting on the bleechers socializing or just taking pictures. The start was at Commerce, OK on Route 66 and run thru Kansas and ended in Joplin, MO</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Before the start, they had a girl from local high school singing the national anthem, she can really sing, then with less than a few mins before the race starts, I was lining up at the front of the start with all those fast runners, because I knew the course infront of me was pretty wide open so I dont think people behind me would have trouble passing me, plus I just wanted to get into the pics at the front. =-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Early in the race while we were still in Commerce, OK, I found out we were running on Highway 69, how perfect would that be?? This is my 69th marathon and I get to run on Highway 69!! Could not have been any better.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGbijBjrTWRO8qJmpu4HZ27Mf-G8rWJnz9clvTpiBoVkKOjvaxJMIPppPMuZtJuug7_mGCk-yUyHcL6nE69ZBkqL1yHX1puA9DKKOQiGhFdBZvyAba9UzyyBcPc9IQGFDolGyi6o1JFA/s1600/DSCN0208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGbijBjrTWRO8qJmpu4HZ27Mf-G8rWJnz9clvTpiBoVkKOjvaxJMIPppPMuZtJuug7_mGCk-yUyHcL6nE69ZBkqL1yHX1puA9DKKOQiGhFdBZvyAba9UzyyBcPc9IQGFDolGyi6o1JFA/s400/DSCN0208.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcs5t182S36qHTVmw4Y4-MvtIqxR3m_lI3B0sPQmRbccdJWyCTvNiTLW2NZYPfZ7dWTUFtygJhpYttkbPV-AGmUmrd5p9hhh_0KZ5TXC_P-8SWXCLm88wHqnFHEjX51kDF8mUarTROnqM/s1600/DSCN0219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcs5t182S36qHTVmw4Y4-MvtIqxR3m_lI3B0sPQmRbccdJWyCTvNiTLW2NZYPfZ7dWTUFtygJhpYttkbPV-AGmUmrd5p9hhh_0KZ5TXC_P-8SWXCLm88wHqnFHEjX51kDF8mUarTROnqM/s400/DSCN0219.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here are my splits for the first 9 miles before I felt a little discomfort to my right hip, I was pretty much struggling the rest of the way, but with stretching every once in awhile, I was able to run for a few mins before I had to stop and walk and stretch and run again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 1 - 7:44 - gone out way too fast!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 2 - 8:19</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 3 - 8:30</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 4 - 8:23</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 5 - 9:10</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 6 - 9:07</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 7 - 9:29</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 8 - 9:42</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mile 9 - 11:20 - I started to having some problem with my right hip, never felt this kind of sore before.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The volunteer and the crowds were awesome, plus the police were pretty helpful also, when we entering the start of Kansas, there was one officer standing on the side and welcome every runners "Welcome to Kansas", I think that was really cool. The race was very well organized, the mile markers were very visible since they were really high up, you can see it from the distance. The aid stations were every 2 miles so I didnt really need to carry my water bottle, I felt like I run better without my bottle with me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At about Mile 13, we actually had make a right turn and run around the school parking lot, then ran back out on the Route 66 just to add some distances. We actually got to run on the OLD Route 66 for a few miles around Mile 20, that was a long stretch of boring course with few spectators, plus the warm temperature was helping me getting faster. Once we got back on the regular Route 66, they actually had a huge fan blowing cool air on the side, I stopped by there and just cool myself down a little before I moved on, that was a huge relief.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So after Mile 24, I have half an hour left if I wanted to finish under 5 hours, I wasnt really thinking about my time because I was kind of tired and sore, I just wanted to finish without further injury. So I kind of took it easy and just take it one step at a time. Then when I got to the home stretch to make a left turn to the finish, I saw a Maniac who I met earlier during the race greeting me on the side, she finished around 3:48 and I saw her medal around her neck, which was very nice. Then I could see the finish line ahead of me, luckily my hip felt better so I was able to run the final stretch without stopping and was able to pass by 3 other runners right before the finish, and I BARELY finished under 5 hours at <b> 4:58.05</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After I finished, I rested for about an hour and a half before I drove ANOTHER 3 + hours BACK to Kansas City to get back to my room and rest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Overall I really like this marathon, great support from everywhere, if I live in Kansas, I would run this one again, too bad I dont.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Next Race.................................Rock n Roll Denver - 10-17-2010</span></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-8941567893874868272010-09-30T20:29:00.000-07:002010-10-12T09:22:17.227-07:00Tahoe Triple Marathons Recap<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">3 Marathons in 3 Days in 2 States ~ Mission Accomplished!!!!!</span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">This is my </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">10th</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">, </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">11th</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"> and </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">12th</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"> marathon this year, and </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">66th, 67th </span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">and</span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"> 68th </span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">overall</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523008983260819090" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGyPRE77lBaJ5_X4l5n2-kUBdIm-n5plZaPtS2MC1-sj2Y4VRTyjRdSjSAyIYijZGQYkCOh3PLvuLILXe09cGunMy1zPofz79TbTeTOEtJtBa8HgKhL7p2HpjX_rnRmZMx_ACOuW6qEA/s400/IMG_5284.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">This year I have been challenged myself to do some races that I have never done before, so I called this year the "Go Big or Go Home" year. And doing the Tahoe Triple was definately the one I was looking forward to it because not that many races you can do them on 3 straight days Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Plus being able to run around the Lake Tahoe was a thrill.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Thursday 9-23-10</span></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">I saved myself around $60 by taking the bus to the airport instead of driving there and park at their expensive rate parking lot, since I live close to the John Wayne Airport, taking the bus is way cheaper.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">I flew out of John Wayne earlier morning to Salt Lake City, then to Reno, then I picked up my rental car and drove down about 50 miles to Super 8 in South Lake Tahoe, which was where I stayed, although the outside didnt look too fancy, but inside it looked pretty homey, it has microwave, a coffee maker, a small frig, plus a balcony, since I was on the 2nd floor, which you could see the pool. After I settled all my stuff in the room, I headed to the packet pick up at their host hotel, Horizon Hotel, which was only 2 miles down.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">There were only a few tables set up in the hallway, I picked up my bib, a long sleeves tech shirt, a blue "Tahoe Triple" singlet, a gym bag and a finisher license plate. What a great swag!! I will be using the same bib for day 1, day 2 and day 3's race. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523117373261334802" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfifZc7rYj1ePa5AtMkGy6rXH6HC96fOMXTZZ5Dy9WPu3whISWmB9-mqkGx6FFzYkOOerDpCv341VTERu1ffFjj3vUQGuWIlisEG-ESRgGwwmE3NWarCBz3IPScVLhKWGIEsDh-quqme0/s400/IMG_5132.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: justify; width: 400px;" /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">I met up with my friend Karen, whose mom will be supporting us for Day 1 and Day 2's race, since on these 2 days were total self supported, but they did have a few fixed aid stations along the course like every 7 miles or so. Then we all agreed to meet up at the buffet dinner at the restaurant right next to the expo at 5:30pm. The buffet was REALLY good, lots of great food, pastas, rice, pizza, salad, chickens, deserts, soups, etc... And while we were enjoying our dinner, the race directors were going thru the course with us, plus guest speaker Dick Beardsley was also there to share his stories with us. I have met Dick Beardsley 3 times previously at different races, but I am always looking forward to listen to his speech because he is such a great entertainer with his stories. Then after the dinner I headed back to my room and get everything set up for my Day 1 of 3 marathons adventures.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Friday 9/24/10 - Day 1 Marathon - from Emerald Bay to Spooner Lake</span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">We took the shuttle bus at 6:15am at the Horizon Hotel parking lot to Emerald Bay, the bus was comfortable, it was one of those tour bus with restroom at the back, not the school bus. The race started at 7:15am, I was able to snapped a few pics of the beautiful lake before we started running, plus the race director gathered all of us together for a group pic before we started.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523129839562719122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJGZpmOYoWOIbv9FYzxKc0iefFNa9Qlg8IZOxtAUd6j_kozZcp3U35sQpjRL0hLnQMOjtYRUCXsVUWTYKwgkLv-jMmJP1OAbvyYPvSKGOkNdJn1uRG-v1UZJh7Mu_RsOTBb_549IzTWqY/s400/IMG_5150.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: justify; width: 300px;" /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523132251677254850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtndtVOTxSvpTJpfAynKT4HClhyphenhyphenwBvXAVft81u_HHQ9hmHF7bAYop_5nMkkhyW9Ua8aTdbc9UWlHQvMXkJpiMorbKZMzljyjsMLn3bL7FhzLVCk-HF4dfdpA0sBO-oaCTKBZgqgoQestQ/s400/IMG_5161.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: justify; width: 300px;" /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">I got to meet Sam Felsenfeld, who is running a marathon or more every weekend to raise money for Austism Charities, you can follow his journey at </span><b>www.operationjack.org</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">I decided to run this 1st day as easy as I could because I heard the 2nd day is a easier one so I wanted to have a negative split between these 2 races. I actually ran with my fellow Maniac "Quiksilver" Ed for most of the race, he was doing the Super Triple, which means a marathon on Fri and Sat, then a 72 miles around the lake on Sat night, so he just wanted to take the first day as his "warm up".</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">During the first few miles, we were running on the side of the road with no shoulder, so we had to be careful to stay inside the road because the road was open to traffic.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523137449954833954" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbne5CyyzSKjuwxZ0WXsvBxcfY57jA5JahsVek2AYzvm253EUF_fuNMTNzobXhSp5QybF92CK6b3Sv6BxQZuD2pEnKV3WBG4HqbaTBJJTafI7stzyG39Kv4eRB7_gHolkl0p0l6qYICns/s400/IMG_5175.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: justify; width: 300px;" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Running on the white line was definately not an option cuz we might slip and fall off the hill.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Once we got to around Mile 7, we saw this little aid station table set up at the street corner, all they had was water since we were encouraged to carry our own water bottle, I took a few cups and we continued to move on. We tried to run on the sidewalk on the bike path as much as possible, or just stay away from the traffic. We ran behind the host hotel Horizon and got to our second aid station at around Mile 13, this time they had water and cookies, I again took a few cup and pour one on my head since the weather started to get warm, but I didnt get any cookies though. Then Ed and I continued our way thru a next few miles until we arrived at the next aid station around Mile 17, this time they had water and 2 huge buckets oranges and few snacks for us, the aid station was unattended when we got there but who cares, as long as they have water and oranges. =-)</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523145173734990626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGAjEb1De5Tv_MVedO9xX1qH72nO-varZuIZTVFl2yKMSEmQeMMUdWHqhdiqaVntUCeIYrfi1kM3rRg_SJKc6ia6irJXi9_5jqzZvUY_Uc8SsbS6-PateJcpevRCAvrFw70qtMXbnkgyY/s400/IMG_5196.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: justify; width: 300px;" /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">At Mile 17 aid station</span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Then at around Mile 19, we were about to go thru this tunnel on US 50, glad that they had half of the road blocked, or else it will be very dangerous to run on a narrow shoulder with cars coming at us.</span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523146981081844738" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgcsWc3FZhC2GOS_7GhIZ61IWCW_h8oj4DS62G7d1NaKl7aMKUFSwIpRywUu04Tl-MlpXMANlSK13oETP7JeHdF52ECY5J-n3t_gP13ai2Fd2e2o9BTEyiL1sU624xuIm2V18MWLQwpXk/s400/IMG_5201.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: justify; width: 400px;" /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">We continued to run and walk the next few miles, it was really tough to run on the side of the road with some constant incline. But I was just taking my time and just enjoy myself. Then we got to the final aid station at around Mile 23. My friend Barefoot Todd was there volunteering and helping us with water, oranges, pretzels and everything, I chatted with him for awhile before I moved on, my friend Ed was already on his way cuz I think I was taking too long at the aid station so he couldnt wait.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523149378392424866" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2-ebfRVMv7HzKvqHp-egg-w2JChtJMFMrtrwAc_DAeQ55GWVOgpeCovi3wjijdWD3i8wl321JMsJxuHjVhXewSskPoZL0oS74i8PD19iTYb3gpRlDfKZ6PrjvlLg-WPm_ddNwQ79UASU/s400/IMG_5208.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: justify; width: 300px;" /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Barefoot Todd at Mile 23 aid station</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">The last 3 miles uphill were ROUGH!! It was a slowly climb all the way up for about 3 miles before making a left turn at US 28 to Spooner Lake at the parking lot. I finished at </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">5:32.42.</span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523149980314423682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghoUatA5y8c4Jd2FkYUrOusPKD_IoM2Aq3I-tS8NZwA6z-fazcEDrU6svxEVtutLg03Ys6Fi_rpjGWF-3eWU8GHmyN7S8P6nSDm8H_muBril8o76C3azJT7AJdkLAtmXp6KdffJnQMIQI/s400/IMG_5209.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: justify; width: 300px;" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Imagine running on this narrow shoulder for 3 miles against traffic!! Fun huh??</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Karen and her mom were waiting for me in their car, she finished the race about an hour before me. We then headed back to Horizon Hotel to pick up my car and see each other again for Day 2.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span">Saturday 9/25/10 - Day 2 Marathon - from Spooner Lake to Tahoe Cit</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span">y</span></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Well, how could I ever forget about this marathon, I actually MISSED the shuttle bus to the start on race morning!!</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">I woke up at 6am and thought that the shuttle bus leaves at 7:15am, since the race starts at 7:45am. So I was taking my time and getting my stuff ready. I stopped by McDonalds on my way to the Horizon Hotel and got myself 2 sauage mcmuffin with egg and a small coffee, then I texted my friend Karen and asked what time does the bus leave, and she said they've already LEFT!!!! I started to panic since I wasnt sure where was the start at, but she told me it was where we finished from the previous day and she gave me the direction how to get there. So I just drove there within 15 mins, I really thought I wasn't gonna make it and not getting my Triple.</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">I didnt have the tradition pasta the night before, instead I drove 25 miles to get my In N Out burger, Animal Fries and a chocolate shake!! I gotta get my In N Out fix on!!</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">So I arrived at the start area and saw bunch of runners there so I knew I was at the right spot. I saw Karen, Quiksilver Runner Ed, Yolanda, Jen, and some of the runner from the day before all getting ready for Day 2. I told myself I wont be taking any pictures for this one because I just wanted to concentrate on the run and hopefully get a faster time since I heard this one is a downhill course for the first half. So I just left my iPhone in my car, finished my coffee and get ready for the start, I didnt even have time to eat my sandwiches.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Race started at 7:45am, my legs werent too tight, I was able to run at a comfortable pace, but since I TOTALLY FORGOT my Garmin, I wont know how fast I was going and how far I have gone, but I did have my regular watch though, so I was just going by how I feel and just go from there. It was nice to see the sun start to shine early morning on our right side while we run on the left side against traffic in single file.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The first 11 miles were mostly downhill, with aid stations every 6 or 7 miles or so, I remembered I was just following this guy infront of me as my pacer, when I get a little closer to him, I will back off a little bit either by run a little slower or just take a short walking break, then when he was a little further away, I will start running again and try to keep up with him. I used this strategy for most of the first 13 miles until I had to stop at the aid station and refill my bottle. Because the aid station at Mile 13 is for both the runner AND the cyclists, so I saw a few a lot of cyclists passing by that spot, plus lots of water bottles on the ground since after they finish their water, they will just toss the bottles away.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The first half was done and it was fun with the downhill, the second half wasnt as fun though. At one point I was running on this narrow shoulder on this highway when a few of the cyclists were coming at me, I actually had to stop and let them pass thru before I could move on. I did a lot of running and walking at that point, well mostly walking since my legs were really tired, I had to stop and stretch every now and then.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">When I got to the aid station at Mile 20, Barefoot Todd was there again volunteering, he got oranges, watermelon, pretzels and water in his little bins, no table though. I chatted with him a little bit before I moved on, all I knew at that point was I only have 10k to go!!!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The next few miles has a few rolling hills, I remember before I had to go up to this hill, there was this one guy helping out giving out water to us runners, I dont think that was the planned aid station but I was glad he was there helping out. I was either on the bike path or the side of the road, whichever I thought it was safer or faster. Then I saw sign that made me want to start running again, and it was a sign that said "25" on the sidewalk, since there werent any mile markers on the course, that was a nice one to see and a important one. So I continue to run/walk and made my way into Tahoe City, I saw lots of stores and restaurants everywhere and I knew I was close to finish, but I just didnt know where, they didnt have any direction or anything so I just kept running straight ahead, then I ask this lady on the sidewalk where is the finish at, she told me it was just straight ahead, so I just kept running and saw lots of people waiting at the finish area. I finished at <b>4:47.23</b>, about 45 mins faster than the day before.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">At the finish they have free beers, soda and cookies, I didnt take the beers, just root beers. I waited there for awhile for this married couple to take me back to the start to get my car back since Karen and her mom were having a get gather with their friend so they couldnt take me back. I finally got the chance to eat my sandwiches when I went back to my car. =-) </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Day 3 Marathon will be up soon, I promise. =-)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Sunday - 9/26/10 - Day 3 Marathon - from Tahoe City to Emerald Bay</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I didnt have pasta the night before, I settles for pizza and wings at the nearby pizza joint. Was gonna go do some sightseeing, but was too tired so I just stayed in for night and ready for Day 3.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I made sure I woke up on time this time for the shuttle bus, so I got up early and arrived at the Horizon Hotel by 6:15am, there wasn't much runners were there that time, only a few of us, so we just chatted for awhile before the bus came. After an hour bus ride, we finally arrived at the start area, the Common Beach in Tahoe City, which was where we ended the day before. I was able to stop by the nearby restaurant Rosie's Cafe to get some coffee before the start.</span><br />
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</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-4679562997432082372010-08-24T11:11:00.000-07:002010-08-25T13:10:13.875-07:00ET Full Moon Midnight 51K Recap<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinzfZ3cQv3JypVDqKwKfhnTVg3U2uw4OCoX4Is-U7Msk9KioUxXWlQgC5RRhoxIMu2Lym0GLGaTDde8XywM6jr-wArJvEqHaI7SBNcHvgptXK6ZYCRWZMGJRLccTr-VNYc0Y7xUdasqIQ/s1600/finish.jpg"></a><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">This is my <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">4th</span></b> Ultra Marathon and <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">2nd</span> </b>Ultra this year</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><u><br /></u></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgezivA5ARA9Z5UO3Kanjlt-CQhBAwu0YotkgYtNAeWYatgehWQdOaRqJ54GVZG8CiS2qQ21JSJwaRlE5TGzPiTYbi86i9923fO-JiinTTx2A8ZaZ4TV1V-JmzAxYnESiyX-S1cXl_DNL0/s1600/P1092149.JPG"></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrNdkqR6VpnlBfi6SNs3oVLm3tsOSyFZlSc6mcI6O_OcNerqrjG4bxTazJUwhDFn7emR9fQtKZdtGerrKa-0U0KhayHZwxn1M9BI6QZ7XrWO_foiRygQ33kLxF9hf0Vp_IU9sRKzYBBQ/s400/ETmedal.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509051666848108050" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 265px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Photo by Casey</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">This is my second time running this ET race, last year I was running my 51st marathon so I had requested my bib number to be 51 and Joyce, race director, was kind enough to give me the number 51. So last year I was running my 51st in Area 51 with bib number 51. My friend told me I should have done the 51K instead, but I count my Marathons and Ultra separately so I rather want to do the 51K this year.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><b>Saturday - 8-21-10</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">I left my house at 2am and started to drive to Vegas, and after 4 hours of driving in the middle of the night, I arrived in Vegas around 6am. Then I drove to this Motel 6 right across the street from MGM Grand to check in, yes even at 6am in the morning, you can still check in, I always love Motel 6, plus after I found out that they have remodeled some of their rooms here, I had to try it out, and I was really impressed with their new look.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgezivA5ARA9Z5UO3Kanjlt-CQhBAwu0YotkgYtNAeWYatgehWQdOaRqJ54GVZG8CiS2qQ21JSJwaRlE5TGzPiTYbi86i9923fO-JiinTTx2A8ZaZ4TV1V-JmzAxYnESiyX-S1cXl_DNL0/s400/P1092149.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509056972828804402" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3xtq7L4qGoAqdihDwdwRAtjJby-Gc7xkwhIaXZmJMwIdN6vX8aPeFeAGszH5OBX9mDNv2jEn7CYq-QP_uL35itL2G4hluE2fX5okS50CmT4LVIhfQvqLao_HZg6mLoxQKgWi3fYi8InQ/s400/P1092150.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509057947801880658" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJc708xkeNwbMU36m_h8tyHK9o4wWct1pbXYy1PTqisWpKElwWt6Ib-t4mp2naeWBMmLxvpm8dPUVsYJ1RYeoV0R_mAN4sGmmi0omoilwLI_OWlyWnWycslia114Vf9DVEMYZM04j0mPk/s400/P1092151.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509058784855170962" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQozWW7kYjXvx0Y_9aLxw_D0GtT7HZwUcLlR80oUFO_tox1KtYkEK2TboRau8tNBbu53wI16GmwdIpScAtMMphsUqsmrC5SSdUnWSiKRy_TyDzHwb4NHqynHqZ4pERHBIqgx95OIKxce0/s400/IMG_5032%5B1%5D" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509059743309223666" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Because it was so freaking hot outside, like above 100 degree, I decided to stay inside my room and just chill out, I was gonna go check out this place called Omelette House, but I just dont want to deal with heat. So I just hung out in my room, watching TV, getting online and enjoy the AC.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">At around 12pm, I decided to call Pizza Hut and ordered my pasta for my carbo load, since the race start at midnight I want to get my carbs in no less than 12 hours from race start, that's the advice I got from Dick Beardsley.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Mkp_FNK8p85qJ8OAD1fuIQqxVyXAKhmYX1p-ypUR3yCFEBtIXmPdrBYRFPRpU_ocE5-PA9448LPNZyn9MUzeO3dPZaH-MdeFLyGa0GgnVQbEZV46hdB4HIu6DeTTz_yMJjzt2ILMNVM/s400/IMG_5036%5B2%5D" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509067824840531090" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">I only ate the pasta, saved the breadstick after the race</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Then around 4pm, I headed my way to the Hard Rock Casino, which was only around 2 miles drive, to pick up my packet. The expo was small, typical Calico Racing's expo, while I was in line waiting to get my stuff, I bumped into Emil, he just finished getting his stuff and was ready to leave, we chatted a little bit before we saw Don with his friend, they are gethering a dinner at the nearby PF Chang's in an hour but me and Emil decided to skip since we have already eaten.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWngq02mrUM6ZFdLCXFrl4URnQuFmTO1VaQr5lCtHwPBx01eoXuJc3BeExMrR73wRDcUoPuD1Tlvhp9jlLBg55D-AA6SQRWRge_fLed57iJfbbF4RU96Te9YUP_ahmFLGIurLY1MIMpn8/s400/P1092153.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509351658124573650" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sP88pf7bNGXwizDXqLtjO2csUmLZawICGXVNLaUr4B1hO97WszTc30_2ylh4BUZYYIIgri9ruCii2gddR619OuzpRFxbJKM-NUEKJ6CvMd6T_YnLEEHZMjF4vc6AESqLXYvh3vTae74/s1600/IMG_5037%5B1%5D"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sP88pf7bNGXwizDXqLtjO2csUmLZawICGXVNLaUr4B1hO97WszTc30_2ylh4BUZYYIIgri9ruCii2gddR619OuzpRFxbJKM-NUEKJ6CvMd6T_YnLEEHZMjF4vc6AESqLXYvh3vTae74/s400/IMG_5037%5B1%5D" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509068172326647698" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><u></u></span></span></div></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">This is the COOLEST bib EVER!!!</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">After I got my packet, I ran into Vince, who also ran the Devil race 2 months ago, we actually walked together for a few miles during the that race and we met up again after the race in my room cuz I was really really sick and he was able to provide some help that I needed to recover from that hot race. We exchanged conversation a little bit, then he told me to meet up with him, his family, and the 2 guys that I met during the Devil race, Brian and Jake, at a restaurant inside the Hard Rock Casino. They had rented a RV so they wont have to take the shuttle bus to the start, they invited me to their RV and I couldnt say No since I never ridden on a RV before, although I have bought the BUS ticket, but if I can get to the start early, I am ok with that.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">So they decided to leave in an hour so I quickly drove back to my room and grab my stuff and meet them back at the lobby by 5:30pm. We didnt actually leave until around 6:30pm cuz we were waiting for Brian to show up, although he actually stays at Hard Rock, wonder why took him so long? overslept?? =-)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJF-o-mrvt8hVhGeusn572cqMMvFvP0r2EgpCaIMtKpT8KUOcSnkTz08Qy3gERvrmuHRQRi5OxmypcvmsIChtfRuRWqavrrBvUBP0J0T1nSPsR6aWLO10XQy4zN1SGzDmWORAh7NxUBQ/s400/P1092155.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509391990727650066" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">We made one pit stop at the LOVES gas station to get gas and grab some food on the road, then we were ready to hit the road and head to the starting area.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">We arrived at the start area around 9:30pm, there were only a few cars parked along side the dirt road by the start, we saw one of the runner all decorated himself with glowsticks all over his body, too bad I didnt get a pic of it. He told me he bought like 10 packs of glow sticks.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">By 11pm, we saw the shuttle buses started to arrive, there were like around 10 or so of them, we were just hanging out infront of our RV, watching runners getting ready for the race.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLj8r7Map2hqa8E_vwUcLlppRU2jHjfsghcWmbfuWY38YJ6KR3cC8zetwdZkph8AEli9SoQj0iGuYgrI1ct5h6tr-l_wUAE480imez5a3H89kTDeqnBGSbcfgl5L8KovaBTiNimzELbaI/s400/RV.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509401008301312386" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Brian, me and Jake hanging out before the start.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">By around 11:45pm, 15mins until race start, we started to head to the start area, there were lots of people have their glowstick around their necks, its look like a rave party, everyone has their headlights on and everything.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHpzXr0MJH5YvJ912Gt5ztwih834e4TefE6qoKDq4RKPYDc122K9e2IguiuAbKBVA8CY3cw4h53XmrtakE-G_mHrnnrs1WUvVX-KcEfH8XrWA8fy9eW1ARCf7rY3QLeRp_KUbXHa4abs4/s400/group.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509408025360170306" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Brian, me, Jake and Vince getting ready for our 51k.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">The race start at midnight, we were near the front of the group, since everyone is going by clock time, so we want to get out there early. We decided to go out on a slow pace together early on and just enjoy the camaraderie. Within for the first few miles, I noticed a Maniac running pass me on my right side, and it was Ron, we exchanged hellos, then a moment later, I heard someone called my name from behind, and when I turned around, they were Maniacs Ward and Casey, I was glad they recognize me cuz it was tough to pit point ANYBODY in the dark!! Ward wasnt sure he was gonna run this race , but I am glad he made it. And Casey was running her 1ST Ultra!! She couldnt have picked a better ultra to run!! Then a few mins later, I heard ANOTHER person calling my name from the back, and this time it was Jasmin, who was also running her 1ST ultra marathon. So I was kind of glad I didnt go out fast cuz if I did I wouldnt have caught up with my Maniacs friends!!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">I was still going on a slow pace since the elevation started to affect me, it was around 4500 feet, so I was just enjoying myself on the run with the guys. Then a few miles later, I heard ANOTHER person calling my name from behind!! And this time, it was another Maniac Morgan Cumming, she is on her quest to become the youngest person to ever finish 50 marathons in all 50 states, current record holder is Laura Skladzinski, she just recently finished her quest in June at the Minneapolis Marathon at the age of 24.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Morgan is a true warrior, she recently finished a marathon ON CRUTCHES because of her injury on her left foot!! We ran for a few miles together before she had to stop at the aid station, I wished her good luck since I had my water bottle so I didnt have to refill just yet.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Then around Mile 10, I caught up with Casey, she was taking her walking break so I decided to chat up with her since I was in no hurry. She was telling me that she was looking for me all over at the expo and before the race, but since I was with my Devil's friends, I was MIA until earlier during the race when she finally found me. As we were walking, we saw Maniac Ed "Fancypants", he was wearing this spacesuit with helmet on his head. See the pics below.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yYtPqJKK8Aoe2jzkEUpXPecPYNoBSRKcrwzVTfYmEwOjdq9q_pRob3AL2kspDErFfjWvU_LjKT4B8v3k1HlPinyFM_d5WQ3XLTW6m-nOrK-c3kDA7OyW790nn88e6ZKYPG4HZQcwKvE/s1600/ed2.jpg"></a></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-_yfznWDwNU3d-sfMn6Y6w5GZO2l6oC8kyPbUppGZVgSY_IcUvTyhxJRTi3I-sSO5nsCcxyCI4-1e_K3VqWTYb_2WdEUv3Tsy5oaptkNMp1RwNWL7-UG7fyfs-XKYFoKiza4clGIzT9c/s1600/ed.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-_yfznWDwNU3d-sfMn6Y6w5GZO2l6oC8kyPbUppGZVgSY_IcUvTyhxJRTi3I-sSO5nsCcxyCI4-1e_K3VqWTYb_2WdEUv3Tsy5oaptkNMp1RwNWL7-UG7fyfs-XKYFoKiza4clGIzT9c/s400/ed.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509427654348329858" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 282px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Casey and "Fancypants" Ed</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yYtPqJKK8Aoe2jzkEUpXPecPYNoBSRKcrwzVTfYmEwOjdq9q_pRob3AL2kspDErFfjWvU_LjKT4B8v3k1HlPinyFM_d5WQ3XLTW6m-nOrK-c3kDA7OyW790nn88e6ZKYPG4HZQcwKvE/s400/ed2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509427663098953186" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 298px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">The backside of Ed</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">The after Mile 13, I decided to start running again, but my stomach was acting up, I wasnt feeling hungry, I wasn't feeling like throwing up, I felt like I have a cold stomach feeling, which I have never felt before in a race, so I quickly put my left forearm infront of my stomach and tried to keep it warm, which helped a little but I wasn't able to run on it, everytime I tried to run, it bothers me. So I pretty much just started to walk in discomfort. I was really in a bad mood cuz I felt like I wasn't having any fun walking, plus my shoes werent comfortable, I was really thinking about quitting, or just finish the marathon distance instead of 51K.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Then around Mile 18, I can see the Finish Line ahead of me at Mile 20, but for us marathon/ultra runners, we STILL have to go for an out and back to complete our distance before we return to the finish line. So I was at the aid station at mile 20, I FINALLY decided to try the Hammer Gel to see if it help relieve my stomach pain, and it took me by surprise that it actually helped!! the cold stomach feeling was gone!!! I felt an instance relief, but I STILL have 12 more miles to go!!! My first plan was just get to the next aid station(Mile 23), then if I feel a little better, I will continue up with the 51k, if not, I will head back to complete the marathon distance.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">I finally got to aid station at Mile 23, then I asked the volunteer to refill my water bottle when I sat down in the chair to take my Hammer Gel, I sat there for a min then I felt better and decided to complete the 51K. It was around 5:30am in the morning and the sun just barely came out and I could see the road pretty clear, sometimes I think it's better to run when you are actually see the course instead of almost totally darkness.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">The Mile 26 point turnaround for our 51K runners was just ahead of me, I found a few familiar faces coming back, including Ed, Casey(gave her a high five as she ran by) and Jake. I felt alot better than earlier after I started taking the Hammer Gel, I was able to pass a lot of runners after the turnaround, it was pretty nice running on the highway when the sun is coming up, I got the perfect view of the sun slowing rising above the mountains.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Then with less than 1 mile to go, I could see the A'Le"Inn, the finish line, ahead of me, plus I also saw my friend Jake was a little bit ahead of me, so I tried to catch up with him a little as possible, when he started to walk, I start to run just to close up the gap between him and I, I continue to do that until I finally caught up with him, we talked for a little bit before I started to sprint to the finish line, I crossed the finish line in 7:10.21. It was a tough race, I was glad I survived without dropping out.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinzfZ3cQv3JypVDqKwKfhnTVg3U2uw4OCoX4Is-U7Msk9KioUxXWlQgC5RRhoxIMu2Lym0GLGaTDde8XywM6jr-wArJvEqHaI7SBNcHvgptXK6ZYCRWZMGJRLccTr-VNYc0Y7xUdasqIQ/s1600/finish.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinzfZ3cQv3JypVDqKwKfhnTVg3U2uw4OCoX4Is-U7Msk9KioUxXWlQgC5RRhoxIMu2Lym0GLGaTDde8XywM6jr-wArJvEqHaI7SBNcHvgptXK6ZYCRWZMGJRLccTr-VNYc0Y7xUdasqIQ/s400/finish.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509439958998678322" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Thanks Don for taking this pic.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">Next Race...........................Tahoe Triple Marathon, Sept 24th,25th and 26th, 2010.</span></b></i></span></div></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-10623488179859365762010-06-07T11:38:00.001-07:002010-06-09T10:53:55.503-07:00Rock n Roll San Diego Marathon<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaH-7nDZ9hKNjSU1pYpqeDi5iGhyphenhyphenZcGnGC5QNzhKZC0bpbpKFU7MXF_6t8HTvTWoB5lvRzGEqxsKlTsDMyzioTyEqWO4K6hAGFxkuXN-VIl5lwCJ_3p63UTtI3zvInehon_B00uAjvHmo/s1600/rnrsd10.jpg"></a><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">This is</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> 8th</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> marathon this year and </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">64th</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> overall</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheD0B93XwDJvCldFiZLrhI8ZUEBYFYuWdVlNNPOeJkLUXMhieIgWKXKhxJ7n0vzhtNLdpav_9qnNCWlO3Gnx_a92vH6WqO2qpvc5Ct1LWuYuBzlIxbRXJ2L2sixBJtXpjAjjH3fEmaQBo/s1600/P1091625.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheD0B93XwDJvCldFiZLrhI8ZUEBYFYuWdVlNNPOeJkLUXMhieIgWKXKhxJ7n0vzhtNLdpav_9qnNCWlO3Gnx_a92vH6WqO2qpvc5Ct1LWuYuBzlIxbRXJ2L2sixBJtXpjAjjH3fEmaQBo/s400/P1091625.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480464487235700178" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br />I have ran Rock n Roll San Diego since 2005 and this year happened to be the most differcult one I've ran in San Diego, mostly because of the new course change and everything involve within. But I also had a great time in San Diego, such as the expo and the pasta dinner with fellow Maniacs.<br /><br /><b>Friday - 6-4-10</b><br /><br />9am - Picked up rental car, then drove 80+ miles to San Diego for the expo just to meet Kara Coucher<br /><br />10:30am - arrived outside the expo, there was a long line of people waiting for the expo to open at 11am<br /><br />11am - 1pm - got my bib, tech shirt, and a so-called "goodie bag" cuz there arent anything good in the bag. But most importantly, I got to meet Kara Coucher, she is currently 6 months pregnant and she said the baby boy is due by September.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6znykU00cqPJXj97PYY0ZS1pkrUbMseXGvc3Pm_i7dFkScxqIDnK2io6ATnhpMKeKfX0qBAo9XrpvCKVJYRtRetFxCKxERq2sClHWe1siFBMIrs2oSMcwpuVY6UrWMovobfkV2aIFY94/s400/P1061557.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480482352458286242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Kara Goucher and I at the expo</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">1pm - 2:30pm - drove 80+ miles back home so I could get to work by 3pm</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><b>Saturday 6-5-10</b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">8am- 12pm - working</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">1pm - 3pm - drove down to San Diego again to see if I could meet Ryan Hall, his appearance was at 3pm, then at 4pm he will sign autographs and take pictures. After I checked in the Motel 6 in Chula Vista, I decided to skip the expo and rested for a little bit before the dinner party with my fellow Maniacs.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><b>Pasta Dinner </b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I met up with my fellow Maniacs at this little authentic Italian restaurant in Hillcrest at 5:30pm, there were 12 of us, thanks for my new Maniac friend Dana who helped organized the dinner, I met her from my other Maniac friend Sherry, too bad Sherry couldnt join us cuz she was having dinner with her TNT group. The food there was amazing, I ordered the Fettucine Cleopatra, which got beans, mushrooms in it, the pasta was perfectly cooked, very delicious. Mostly all the people who works there are Italians.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY1Vgqv8sPhWocqm33r2KIA-Wg1vZkX5rlqSVCK4FyMvv-utyMdu2R8S0_4tsVpMWXrtt7UK1cAeeOcp4Wj4hEjQPiKw7iWioFBr8iV1NLCKQJ2g7m-Y3BML7xjPt-zTNGDRR49Xlv_ek/s400/P1081574.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480479100689436946" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">After the dinner us Maniacs decided to have a group picture taken before we say goodbye to each other </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7aaFY6d6nfpqwV8vScsv6PJtLK_rrIBZJdQxWQ-Du40WHN9dAjZQk8wp_y6YYGGn4sSKq3TbidlvVToP0CHV5-Vzdt77GLrKdI0x0Zfjf6ixONp8J5PQs2S_GTyc3sPWqQByzzXWXZs4/s400/dinner.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480483686337022802" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I drove back to my motel and decided to call it a night, went to bed like around 11pm</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><b>Race Day</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Before I left my motel around 2:45am, I found out that I couldnt find my D-Tag for my shoe, I had my bib, but not D-Tag!! I looked through EVERYWHERE and no luck!! So I figure that I totally left it at home since I went back home after the expo on Friday. I just knew my day would be ruined and my time wont be recorded. So I drove to the Qualcomm Stadium to take the shuttle to the start, I wanted to get to the start early so maybe I could get a replacement D-Tag from the volunteers.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">So as soon as I got off the shuttle bus, I quickly walked my way to their solution tent just to see if I could get a replacement. Fortunately, they were able to get me a new one for additional $5, and fortunately I brought my $20 with me so the problem was solved. I was very relief and cant wait to start the race!!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Originally I was assigned in Corral 9 with my old bib, but with my NEW bib, I was assigned in Corral 3, which was perfect for me since I was going to sneak it that corral had I not lost my D-tag. I hung around in Corral 3 with my Maniacs until the race starts.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJp1Sk44khJhTZdJfh38zFbm7J0DLwSyqUBIy-4aJr_WQ_H0vFhO5faAgC9ZxiirzhKwQgQhg-HB-J5ispG8jtY1_5oBE-UleCenVp44yzs3Z6OCn5WtRDkQzLrdEIu8MjbFVZWthrt78/s400/P1081594.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480830620017339058" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;">me, James, Marcia and Howard before the start</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">The race started at 6:15am, it only took a few mins for me to cross the start line. I was starting at a 8:14min/mile, which was way too fast for me if I want to finish under 4 hours. I knew I was going too fast but for some reason I cant slow down my pace, below are my split times:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 1 - 8:14</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 2 - 8:17</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 3 - 8:21</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 4 - 8:16</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 5 - 8:13 (got the chance to run thru Petco Park, tons of cheerleaders, awesome band playing while runners run thru)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 6 - 8:38</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 7- 8:46</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 8 - 8:53</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 9 - 9:08 (started to run on the 163 Freeway, very crowded with the half marathoners)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 10 - 9:40</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 11 - 10:41</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 12 - 8:48</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 13 - 10:15</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 14 - 11:47 (started to slow down as the day gets warmer, walked a lot from this point on.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 15- 10:24</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdWsUOHXj3Df98KuBu9YpAN1dljYuwQDZs3hP9ODEpbQSlTf7UZi16qXQHEDEiI-xtlGR-xq7RwkWjLKPaPkKnC9zWCgXlrDX4JhSKEDTYjmqsEtFZiEBmMtjiT-ufoKpM2ExNQivW4G4/s400/P1081607.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480830304637841522" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 16 - 12:12</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 17 - 12:32 (started to run on this narrow bike path at Mission Bay Park for 4 miles, way too crowded!!)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 18 - 13:08</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 19 - 13:22</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 20 - 14:09</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 21 - 10:52</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 22 - 13:24</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 23 - 9:18 (started to picked up my pace but only lasted for a mile)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 24 - 12:26</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 25 - 11:41 (could see the Finish Line ACROSS the bay, although it look more than a mile.)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Mile 26 - 10:48 (when they said the finish line was around the corner, I still didnt see it, the path was too narrow, it could barely fit 3 people)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I normally dont start to sprint until I could see the finish line ahead of me, so with around .1 mile to go, I sprinted as fast as I can and crossed the finish line at <b>4:35.52</b>. I wasnt too happy with my time, probably because of the warm weather and the humidity. They did offer us wet towel at the end, which was a life saver.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-T3ytHQtTiIjCLQN-oOsRy8jzI4yML130y83NzBXlUPjVcJaao5rZYeIZVuS41MM4YShxCfZ5t4FyPmsliC8v-m06njZeYOya31LtBAz8NcGvJyKry47Yqr7shA6zRQrkbddQpHu4YuE/s400/RNRSD2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480828859774852802" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">After I picked up my gear from the UPS truck, I tried to find the shuttle line, but when I saw the line of the shuttle, I was shocked how LONG was it, it happened that the shuttles are for EVERYBODY, not just for runners only, which they should have done. So I was in line for like half an hour or so before I got on the bus, I lost track of time, it seems like forever though.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Once the shuttle dropped us off at the nearby Trolley Station, we STILL have to wait in line for God knows how long to get on the Trolley to get to the Qualcomm Stadium, where we park our car. I just felt like I was stuck there forever and forever. So I finally got onto the Trolley and 15 mins or so later I FINALLY got to the parking lot and to my rental car. I made a trip to the port a john before I head home, I was planning to stay for the Lakers Game but I know I could make it back home and watch it there.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I dont think I will ever run RNR San Diego again until they change the course setting and better organize the shuttle situations. The Finish Line wasn't as exciting as before when they finished at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaH-7nDZ9hKNjSU1pYpqeDi5iGhyphenhyphenZcGnGC5QNzhKZC0bpbpKFU7MXF_6t8HTvTWoB5lvRzGEqxsKlTsDMyzioTyEqWO4K6hAGFxkuXN-VIl5lwCJ_3p63UTtI3zvInehon_B00uAjvHmo/s400/rnrsd10.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480832948730592930" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><b>This pic was taken from the San Diego's website :</b></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family:'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:11px;"><h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" ft="{"type":"msg"}" style=" color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; font-size:13px;"><span class="UIStory_Message"><a href="http://www.signonsandiego.com/photos/galleries/2010/jun/06/rock-n-roll-marathon-2010/10897/#photo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><span>http://www.signonsandiego.com/photos/gal</span><wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: block; float: left; margin-left: -10px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "></span><span>leries/2010/jun/06/rock-n-roll-marathon-</span><wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: block; float: left; margin-left: -10px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "></span>2010/10897/#photo</a></span></h3></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">Next Race.................Running with the Devils- 6/26/2010</span></b></i></span></div></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-26288954586875903902010-05-17T14:02:00.001-07:002010-05-17T14:04:54.856-07:00Palos Verdes Marathon RecapThis is my 7th marathon this year and 63th marathon overall<br /><br /><br /><br />I have ran this challenging rolling hills course since 2006, the only reasons that I always coming back to run this are the challenge and the low price entry fee, it's onlt $65 on race day, cant beat that!!! Below are the times for the past 5 years.<br /><br />2006 - 4:31.10<br />2007 - 4:34.40<br />2008 - 4:32.56<br />2009 - 3:59.56 ( MY FIRST SUB 4!! they said this isnt a PR course, well I did PRed it! )<br />2010 - 4:14.12<br /><br />Carbo Load Dinner<br /><br />Since I had to work till 10pm the night before, I settled for the chinese noodle at this Chinese fast food place close to my work around 7pm. I was a bit tired after work so I went straight to bed after work.<br /><br />Race Day<br /><br />I woke up at around 3:30am, took a shower and left my house around 4:30am, then stopped by the gas station to get some Gatorade for the race. Then after a short half hour drive, I finally arrived in San Pedro, I parked at the huge parking lot right next to the start/finish area around 5:15am, there were already a lot of cars parked in the lot already and it started to fill up as it getting close to race start at 7am.<br /><br />Around 5:45am, I started walking toward the registration area and sign up for the race, I actually had to fill up one of those scranton sheet that we used to use back in high school, it was kind of fun filling up all those bubbles on the form. =-) Then I walked to the next table to pay my $65 entry fee, talking about cheap marathon price!!!<br /><br /><br />I signed up on race day and it's only $65!! cant beat that!!<br /><br />After I picked up my bib, I saw Emil and Marci walking toward me, so we chatted a little bit, then we saw more familiar Maniacs faces coming in, it's kind of funny that we always see each other at our local races, look like we are stalking each other or something. lol<br /><br />At around 6:30am, I went back to my truck to get everything ready for the race, my Garmin, my armsleeves, my bottle, my barely won new shoes which I just bought a week ago, they are the exact same model that I accidently left on the Amtrak train a few weeks ago when I was running the Ragnar Relay SoCal. I was able to find the same shoes at my local Big 5.<br /><br />Less than about 10 mins before the race start, I did my final stretches by the curb, the runners were already getting ready to run, it was a small race, only about 344 runners doing the full but over 1,000 running the half, what a different.<br /><br />One funny thing happened just moment before we start, after the national anthem, I wanted to have a pic with 2 or 3 other Maniacs, I didnt want to gather all the Maniacs cuz I dont want to be blocking other runners in the way, BUT as soon as other Manaics saw us getting together, they just jumped in, I was kind of shocked but glad that they joined in so we could have a group shot just before the start.<br /><br />Last Maniac group pic before the start.<br /><br />Once the race started, I tried to get into my comfortable pace, my goal was to finish under 4 hours like last year, so I tried to maintain around 9 min/mile pace, but I didnt know how to run slow so I ended up running between 8:30 to 9:00 pace early on, I forgot to set my Garmin back to AUTOLAP and I didnt want to mess with it while running, plus I also forgot to hit the Lap button at every mile marker, so I didnt have my split time recorded. =-(<br /><br /><br /><br />USA! USA!! USA!!!<br />This guy carried the flag for the whole race<br /><br />After a little more than 1 mile, our first challenge was this long stretch uphill that we had to face, since I have been running this race for the past 5 years, I was very familiar with this hill, so I just took it slow and slowly jogged to the top. The only thing I love about this hill was when I am on my way back, it's all downhill so I could just cruise it down without any efforts. I skipped the water station on top of the hill since I already carried my own bottle the volunteers were great, they were really helpful.<br /><br />My pace was still around 8:30/min, I knew I was running too fast but I felt I was comfortable with that pace, I wasnt catching my breath or anything so I just continue on with that pace and kept going. When we were running on the road, I chose to run on the dirt road on the sidewalk since it gives me less impact on my knees.<br /><br />This was one of a few rolling hills on the course<br /><br />another hill coming up after Mile 6.<br /><br />After around Mile 14 turnaround, I saw a few of my running friends were making their way toward the turnaround point<br /><br />Christy was kind enough to pose for a pic before her turn around.<br /><br />Saw Christy again on the turnaround.<br /><br /><br /><br />Saw Jessica on my way back, she almost ran to the wrong way.<br />On my way back, I ran into Jessica and Yolanda.<br /><br />glad to see Yolanda on the way back.<br /><br /><br />After Mile 18 when I knew that I wont be able to make it under 4 hours, I kind of gave up and decided to slow down, it was over 3 hours that time and I knew I wont make it, maybe I was underestimated myself or maybe if I had my split time with me, I might try to make it.<br /><br /><br />Then around Mile 24, my friend Christy caught up behind me while I was walking, so I decided to run with her and see how long I could keep up with her, we ran down this long downhill which was an uphill when we started after Mile 1, there was some headwind while we ran down that stretch but it felt really good at that time. We continued to run with each other until I wanted to stop at the Mile 25 marker to take my walking break and also fix my cramping on my right calf.<br /><br />Christy caught up to me around Mile 24 and I was able to hang on with her till the end, I finished only 20 seconds behind her.<br />With 1 mile to go, I could see her in a distance and I tried to get closer to her as much as I could. I did some run/walk whenever I could, then after I passed the Mile 26 marker, I started to run and crossed the finish line in 4:14.12. <br /><br />After I checked the results, she was only 20 seconds ahead of me, she definitely gave me a boost the last 2 miles.<br /><br />After the race, I picked up my t-shirt, grab some oranges, bananas, Myoflex drink, free coffee from don Francisco, free chair massage and just hung out and watched other runners finishes. I can't wait to do it again next year!!<br /><br />Ward, Nadia, me and Andrea after the race, Nadia and Andrea both 3rd place in their age group!!<br /><br />Group shot!! both ladies won 3rd in their AG. Well done Nadia and Andrea!!<br /><br />Barefoot Todd<br /><br />Barefoot Todd looking strong toward the finish line.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Next Race.................. Memorial Day Half Marathon in Laguna Hill, 5-31-10Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-23067351025438135262010-04-13T23:14:00.000-07:002010-04-13T23:20:15.595-07:00American River 50 Miler Recap<b>I am not a 50 Miler virgin ANYMORE!!!</b> LOL<br /><div class="photo photo_center" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; text-align: center; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; width: 180px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30670102&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs423.ash1/23427_1266829312975_1297055692_30670102_4205908_a.jpg" style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; " /></a></div></div><br />This past Saturday I was able to run my first 50 Miler at American River 50(AR50) up in Auburn, CA, and I enjoyed EVERY moments of it from start to finish. But what I enjoyed the most about the race were the aid stations!! I was always looking forward to one right after another, they definately made the miles went by faster. Sometimes I think I spent too much time at each aid station, but I dont really care because I just wanted to have fun and not worry about the time.<br /><br />I picked this one as my first 50 Miler because this is the 2ND largest 50 Miler in the United States, I think the most popular one is the JFK50. Plus this one is semi-local so I dont have to travel too far, only 8 hours drive. So I think I have picked a perfect one for my 1ST 50!!<br /><br /><b>Thursday 4-8-10</b><br /><br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30670093&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs363.snc3/23427_1266823472829_1297055692_30670093_6091822_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div></div>On my way to Sacramento!!!<br /><br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30670094&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs383.snc3/23427_1266823512830_1297055692_30670094_3895879_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div></div>Whatever that is on the mountain,looks pretty cool.<br /><br />So after 8 hours drive, I finally arrived in a Motel 6 in Auburn, where the race finishes, to meet up with my Maniac buddy Eric, who was also running the race. We hit up the local family pizza joint down in Old Town Auburn for dinner and headed back to our room to watch some DVDs and called for the night.<br /><br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30670097&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs363.snc3/23427_1266825472879_1297055692_30670097_5718486_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">the pizza was awesome at this family pizza joint in Old Town Auburn.</div></div><br /><br /><b>Friday 4-9-10</b><br /><br />I went down to the Fleet Feet Sports store about 20 miles away to pick up my stuff, since they didnt really have an expo, I was done in half an hour, but I did manage to picked up a few merchandises they had on sale outside the store. I got the AR50 cap, a sticker, a short sleeves tech shirt AND a pair of Moeben armwarmer from the event Way Too Cool 50K, although I didnt run that race, I had to buy them since they were only $10 A PAIR!! They are the polyester one, not the nylon one so they are extra warm.<br /><br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30663333&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs383.snc3/23427_1264338210699_1297055692_30663333_2565715_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">NO, these are not inside my goodie bag, I had to buy my goodies!! Except for my bib. The armsleeves were only $10! Wrong event, but who cares.</div></div><br /><br /><b>Pasta Dinner</b><br /><br />I am SO glad that I bought the dinner ticket when I registered for this race, usually the food sucks at pasta dinner, but not this one, the penne pasta and the tortellini were very delisicious, they were catered by nearby The Old Spaghetti Factory, plus they had salad, cookies and brownies and some strawberries. And the ONLY reason that I went to this dinner was to listen to Dick Beardsley's speech. He is one of the most motivational speakers I've ever met, and his speech is always fun to listen to. I have recorded a few mins of one of his speech, I will post it later on.<br /><br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669045&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://hphotos-sjc1.fbcdn.net/hs363.snc3/23427_1266292259549_1297055692_30669045_6716942_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">One of the best pasta dinner ever!! penne pasta and tortilili were really good!!</div></div><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669046&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs383.snc3/23427_1266292299550_1297055692_30669046_2860896_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">Cant believe I only had 2 plates of this, should have gone back for more!!</div></div><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669048&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs423.ash1/23427_1266292379552_1297055692_30669048_5215758_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div></div>Dick Beardsley telling his many running stories at the dinner party<br /><br />Dick Beardsley was having a raffle, whoever wins, he will pace that runner the final 10 miles of the race. I didnt enter the raffle cuz I didnt want to win because I think I will be dying after 40 miles. lol<br /><br />Eric and I went back to the motel after the dinner, watched the "Spirit of the Marathon" movie, did some last min packing for our stuff and went to bed around 10:30pm.<br /><br /><b>Race Day</b><br /><br />We got up at 2am and left at 3am so we could take the shuttle to the start at the finish line at 4:10am. We got to the finish line early since it was only a few miles away from our motel, so we just sat inside our car and wait, it was around 50's early morning.<br /><br />At 3:45am, we made our way to the bus with our gear bags that we planned to be dropped off at the start, they actually 3 different locations for us to choose, one is at Beals Point at Mile 26.77, one is at Rattlesnake Bar at Mile 40.94 and the other one is at the Finish Line. We both chose Beals Points cuz we wanted to change into some fresh clothes for the 2nd half of the race.<br /><br />On the bus, I met up with another Maniac friend Jennifer, we sat behind her and chi chat a little bit. Then a few moments later I saw a familiar face just getting the bus, it was Sally, she was also running her 1ST 50!! She is a fast runner, she eventually finished the 50 miler in 7:40.01.<br /><br />After about an hour bus ride, we finally arrived at the start. the race starts at 6am so I still have a little time to stretch and get myself ready before I check my bag.<br /><br />About 5:45am, the announcer suggested us to start making our way to the start, which is right by the Guy West Bridge, I wish I had a picture of it but it was still dark so didnt came out well. I bumped into a few familiar runners and decided to take our final photo op before we took off.<br /><br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669054&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs363.snc3/23427_1266292619558_1297055692_30669054_4125208_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">Me, Raul and Eric just before the start</div></div><br /><br />The first 19 miles was pretty much following along the bike trail on the pavement, I ran on the shoulder of the bike trail on the dirt area most of the time so my knees wont feel so beat up.<br /><br />I got to the first aid station at Mile 5 in 48.41, I was suprised how many food they have on the table!! I only grabbed some oranges and bananas since the rest of them didnt seem interested to me. Just before I left I saw Cantra standing on the side, she is an ultra runner, so I stopped and ask to take a picture with her. After each aid station, there was a sign telling you how many miles to go until the next aid station, I think that was awesome cuz that's what I am running for!!. =-)<br /><br /><br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669061&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs423.ash1/23427_1266292939566_1297055692_30669061_6218101_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">First aid station at Mile 5</div></div><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669062&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs383.snc3/23427_1266292979567_1297055692_30669062_1284947_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">Catra and I at Mile 5.</div></div><br /><br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669067&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs423.ash1/23427_1266293179572_1297055692_30669067_3159553_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">2nd aid station at Mile 8</div></div>I got to the 2ND aid station at Mile 8.16 in 1:17.54, the volunteers were great, they asked me if I want my bottle to be refilled, they were really helpful. Again I only took some oranges and bananas and I was on my way to the next one.<br /><br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669070&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs383.snc3/23427_1266293299575_1297055692_30669070_5903321_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div></div>Before aid station #3, we had to make our first climb up to the hill, along the side of the trail, they had a few motivational quote to keep us going.<br /><br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669074&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs383.snc3/23427_1266293499580_1297055692_30669074_7824352_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">Aid station #3 at Mile 14.61</div></div>I got to the 3RD aid station at Mile 14.61 at 2:26.28, I always go for the oranges!!<br /><br />I got to the 4TH aid station at Mile 18.1 at 3:06.54, still feeling good, gotta be the oranges!!<br /><br />I got to the 5TH aid station at Mile 22.4 at 3:57.17.<br /><br />I FINALLY got to the half way point at Beals Points at Mile 26.53 at 4:46.40!! I saw Dick Beardsley standing on the side and decided to take a pic with him before I headed over to grab my bag and change into another shirt and new socks for the half of the race.<br /><br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669082&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs423.ash1/23427_1266293859589_1297055692_30669082_4326019_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">The half way point of the race.</div></div><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669081&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs383.snc3/23427_1266293819588_1297055692_30669081_102995_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">Met up with Dick Beardsley at half way point at Beals Points at Mile 26.53</div></div><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669084&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs423.ash1/23427_1266293939591_1297055692_30669084_5861518_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">Aid station at half way point at Mile 26.53</div></div>I took some oranges, bananas and some chips and cookies before I took off<br /><br />When I got to the aid station #7 at Granite Bay at Mile 31.67 in 6:10.29, I noticed they even serve soup!! So I just HAD to try to them out, I ended up taking like 3 or 4 cups of noodle soup, yes they WERE THAT GOOD!! Plus a few cups of Coke before I took off<br /><br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669088&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://hphotos-sjc1.fbcdn.net/hs383.snc3/23427_1266294099595_1297055692_30669088_3834194_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">Thanks the volunteers for serving us NOODLE SOUP at the aid stations!!</div></div><br />After a tough 3 miles, I got to the aid station #8 at Buzzard's Cove at Mile 34.67 in 7:01.23. At this station they even have ICE CREAM CONE!! I took like 3 of them, although I never had ice cream in a race before but they didnt bother me at all.<div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669090&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs423.ash1/23427_1266294179597_1297055692_30669090_7066600_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">The even have ice cream cone at the aid station!! I ate like 3 of them, I think.</div></div><br /><br />I got to aide station #9 at Horseshoe Bar at Mile 38.14 in 7:54.08, again they had soup and coke, and I drank a few cup before I took off.<br /><br />The next aid station is at Rattlesnake Bar at Mile 40.94, I got in at 8:40.23. Then I saw this lake before I took off, so I asked a lady nearby to take a pic for me.<br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669096&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs363.snc3/23427_1266294459604_1297055692_30669096_4651280_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div></div><br /><br />I got to aid station #11 at Manhattan Bar at Mile 43.92 in 9:16.20, Again I gotta have my soup and coke and oranges before I left, those volunteers were awesome, one of them even in custom!!<div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669098&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs363.snc3/23427_1266294539606_1297055692_30669098_2993330_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">Aid Station #11 at Mile 43.92(Manhattan Bar), had to take a pic of her outfit.</div></div><br /><br />Just before Mile 47, there was this long steep hill which they call the "Dam Wall", I tried to walk diagonally just to get up to the hill, at one time I even had to put my hands on my knees to take catch my breath. Once I got up to the top of the hill, I notice a very encouraging sign.<br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669099&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs423.ash1/23427_1266294579607_1297055692_30669099_8103133_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">I forgot to take a pic of the hill, aka the "Dam Wall", I just survived before this point, I was too tired to bring out the camera.</div></div><br />I still have 800 feet of elevation to climb after this point, but just when I got to LAST aid station at Mile 47.56, I saw one of the volunteer actual RAN down the hill to ask me if I want my bottled to be filled, I gave him the bottles and he just ran back up the hill to the aid station and refilled them for me, those guys were in pretty good shape, around their 20's, there were only a few of them working at that station. I grab a few coke before I tackled the final 2.44 miles.<br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669101&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs363.snc3/23427_1266294659609_1297055692_30669101_2745279_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">The last aid station before finish, The Last Gasp. 2.44 miles to go!</div></div><br /><br />The rest of the way was pretty much walking pace, I felt like I was finishing Badwater and I am walking up toward Mt. Whitney. lol Then there was another encouraging sign I saw and I REALLY had to take a picture with it.<br /><div class="photo photo_none" style="clear: both; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; "><div class="photo_img" style="clear: none; line-height: 14px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30669104&op=1&view=all&subj=374836253638&aid=-1&auser=0&oid=374836253638&id=1297055692" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><img src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs423.ash1/23427_1266294859614_1297055692_30669104_5704136_n.jpg" class=" " style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; width: 460px; " /></a></div><div class="caption" style="clear: none; line-height: 12px; padding-top: 2px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 11px; text-align: left; ">the longest mile ever!!</div></div>I AM ALMOST DONE!!!<br /><br />The last mile was the longest mile ever!! And when I was about to make a turn into the parking lot where we park in the morning, I saw people on the side were cheering us , and knowing that the finish line was ahead of me, I started running again and felt great that I am actually finishing a 50 mile race, with no runner infront of me nor behind me, I crossed the finish line in<b>11:08.46. (missed the qualifying time for lottery for the Western States 100 by 9 mins!!) </b>I actually stand underneath the clock so the photographer can have a better picture of me, I can't wait to see how that picture come out.<br /><br />They gave me the finisher's jacket when I finished, but I eventually bought a better quality one for $25 at the booth. They had hamburger, hot dogs and ice creams for us, not a lot of post race food, but I didnt complain, I had a blast overall and I am very looking forward to run this race again next year!!<br /><br />P.S.: My Garmin died on me after 44 miles!!! =-(<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Next Race....................Ragnar Relay So Cal, April 23rd-24th, 2010</span>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-55385992311198761562010-03-24T11:47:00.000-07:002010-03-24T14:57:55.560-07:0025th Annual L.A. Marathon Recap<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">This is my <span style="font-weight: bold;">6th</span> marathon this year and <span style="font-weight: bold;">62nd</span> marathon overall<br /><br /></span><div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdp9sjPaHrzH_r1UubxoM-8sp6Z8qmwyI1-MBqeELrY9A_Cn_AwKyL-ZJIr1wbocSJQ_O4Kp6jwQ27NU147mLjwEMWSXJwjqQ5kmYZJYlfc2PD-bJL3DHVQqOAuFrKvryccYcY-tTcYic/s1600/IMG_1035%5B2%5D"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdp9sjPaHrzH_r1UubxoM-8sp6Z8qmwyI1-MBqeELrY9A_Cn_AwKyL-ZJIr1wbocSJQ_O4Kp6jwQ27NU147mLjwEMWSXJwjqQ5kmYZJYlfc2PD-bJL3DHVQqOAuFrKvryccYcY-tTcYic/s400/IMG_1035%5B2%5D" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452321544370801698" border="0" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">This is also my 10th consecutive L.A. Marathon, after my very first marathon back in 2001 with no training and didnt know I was getting myself into, I found myself walking the entire marathon and finished in 7:39, but after that one I was hooked and I have decided to run the L.A. Marathon every year, below are my results from the past 9 years that I ran the L.A. Marathon.</span></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">2001 - 7:39 (My very first marathon ever!!)</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">2002 - 6:58.55</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">2003 - 5:18.43</span></li><li><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">2004 - </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">5:25.34</span></span></div></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">2005 - 5:05.08</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">2006 - 4:16.40</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">2007 - 5:08.42 (a new point to point course for 2 years)</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">2008 - 4:28.45</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">2009 - 4:19.35 (back to out and back course in downtown LA)</span></li></ul><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">This year they have a whole new course which starts at the Dodger Stadium and ends in Santa Monica while running through many landmarks of LA. I really loved the new course, it took me to many area I never been to, although I have been living here for more than half of my life. So it's interesting to see a whole new course this year.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><b>The Expo</b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">I went to the expo at the Dodger Stadium on Friday cuz I know it's gonna be a crowded on Sat. The expo was REALLY small compare to the usual LA Marathon expo, I was done in half an hour, but I went back a few time just to kill some time. I bumped into my Maniac friend Emil, we seem to bump into each other every race. Here are the things I did at the expo</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">tested ride the EliptiGo bike, it was really a fun bike to take it to the beach</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">met Bart Yasso and have him signed my bib</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">met Sarah Reinertsen and have her signed my bib</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">threw some baseball and tried to hit the target, but missed.</span></li></ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);font-family:Georgia,serif;" ><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKxDpY7d9t0xxckKFl32QhZKAC9ohisfnMH78ePyApRXgT-KxU5YUTEshMYN5IWRSXbEId4sbAW4EIEf5I60XrnlSzpRJW3N7ifh69IzygxqIr_WQ2TTYYRtFTxM9JQFwLsntS8eVbHvU/s400/PA211104.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452293634325637490" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia,serif;">Bart Yasso and me</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);font-family:Georgia,serif;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFKzOWg0B1mIgB4MqaNBOOqJyhov-1hyphenhyphenyb-jT1MJPemg0F66AHee3rfo9tmaL2xvniu9HUCVQjkkisO3BvRoKTy1sTKVqb_AbyK2qgr2B_uranE9VNZHInU5I0849jqo418dp3UsQVrkk/s400/PA211108.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452293922901068642" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia,serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="">Sarah Reinertsen and me</span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Race Day</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2am</b> - left my parent's house and drove to Santa Monica to park my truck</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2:45am</b> - arrived in Santa Monica's parking Lot Zone C where I have purchased my parking pass</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>4am</b> - took the shuttle and headed to Dodger Stadium</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>4:40am - 7am</b> - hanging out on the Dodger field for the first time, something I will always look forward to, what a cool experience!! didnt know there were over thousands kids of Student Run LA running the race.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>7:45am</b> - race started, after a few mins, I was able to catch up with Dean Karnazes and ran with him until Mile 1!!! He was just finished biking from San Fransico to LA on th ElipitiGo bike so he was just taking it slow early on.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);font-family:Georgia,serif;" ><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrmAd8VHeiUOhqPObdj4wFbh3xsr7XDGQjZr-nlqjwrCirzWWWnjSuuPt7VhPpvOrlQTZFXpn35hpMJljp4QXK9yFM3gP1st9pDApqEcB5ORVmv6ZlTZPIM8EcRk-TbbcVgUoQuNQCoWo/s400/PA231123.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452300084399939490" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="">got to ran with Dean was a thrill</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">After the Mile 1, we exited Dodger Stadium and make our way down to Sunset blvd, it's nice to have a downhill early during the race, but it's kinda suck to have a big hill coming up on Mile 3, but thanks for those volunteer who were on the Taiko drums on the sidewalk to keep us moving.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">At Mile 6, I passed by the Burrito King, the place where Jimmy Dean Freeman stopped by while he was test running the course and ordered himself some tacos, too bad it was closed or I would have ordered myself a few.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);font-family:Georgia,serif;" ><br /></span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">At Mile 13, I passed by another famous fast food joint on Sunset blvd, The Carney Express, again that place was closed, or else I would have ordered myself a hot dog.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);font-family:Georgia,serif;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);font-family:Georgia,serif;" ><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE5nhF2W4pJqT_M9LdxFqpJwREyQxvm3CPtxLh6PaXs_CeTwIdF7dhrmiziAORcUpwmZJBsy3WtlnzXlM2ysYqO9o-at97FbKeZEeojc5hZSf2_PcukpS4sw9CU43FOFy50INzqtdIiUc/s400/PA231135.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452304288766217554" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);font-family:Georgia,serif;" ><br /></span></div></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">At Mile 16 just before the mile marker, I saw the Don Franscisco table on the right, so I ran over there and check out what they had, I didnt want a coffee but I did grab one of their tote bag, I ran with that bag for the entire race with all my goodies in it. Then we made our way down to Rodeo Dr.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHpVrlm_COhKFMe8TsPP2N9poobJ4PgFrh_Swgx_6PVnK8taRD_rUcG7eRUp-AJPWUL82rhj7YdyeFf4VbYAKXL_MJ3n446QylUd4MEIFLlScb6ko1cIXL7sylp4cN4w0fiGJkVFJd_6A/s1600/PA231149.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHpVrlm_COhKFMe8TsPP2N9poobJ4PgFrh_Swgx_6PVnK8taRD_rUcG7eRUp-AJPWUL82rhj7YdyeFf4VbYAKXL_MJ3n446QylUd4MEIFLlScb6ko1cIXL7sylp4cN4w0fiGJkVFJd_6A/s400/PA231149.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452312674924345154" border="0" /></a><br />Just right when I made a right turn on Wilshire Blvd at the end of Rodeo Dr, I noticed some people were dressed in green infront of the NikeTown passing out JellyRanchers, so I ran over there and grab some, and they also gave me a wristband. =-)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_cq-V4DrNOAit2-OWEfxWwmj9G7rXTjTLN__FflBUFzrQJSnmXer3R5kQJ7YsFMMI187cRG4Lv0sbqs8F4YUnwz8VVyoyFEFw2p7QslnP4Uw7kNEF6CLEXSKxEsaHiz8Cbbj7RGSaBOU/s1600/PA231153.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_cq-V4DrNOAit2-OWEfxWwmj9G7rXTjTLN__FflBUFzrQJSnmXer3R5kQJ7YsFMMI187cRG4Lv0sbqs8F4YUnwz8VVyoyFEFw2p7QslnP4Uw7kNEF6CLEXSKxEsaHiz8Cbbj7RGSaBOU/s400/PA231153.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452314653460703330" border="0" /></a>Then around Mile 19 when I ran in the Westwood area, I noticed some male strippers were dancing on the table, all they were wearing was their boxer briefs, I guess thats the way to attract more female runners to run this race every year.<br /><br />From Mile 21 to Mile 25 I was carrying my bag while I was running and just trying to enjoy as much as I could, although I was really struggling with the humid weather, I drank a lot of water, and at one point, the volunteers were handing out bottles of Sunny D, so I grabbed one and took my time and finish it before I started to run again.<br /><br />After I passed Mile 26, I pushed myself to run the last .2 mile without stopping, and just before I crossed the finish line, I noticed Bary Yasso was standing on the right side greeting the runners, we exchanged high five and I crossed the finish line at <span style="font-weight: bold;">4:44.54</span><br /><br />The good things that I grab a free bag at Mile 16 was that I could put all the food at the finish line inside my bag, although all they had was bagels, fruit cups, some crackers, and powerade, but that's better than nothing.<br /><br />After I met up with some Maniacs and have some group pics, I headed down to the pier to get my checked bag, it was a long walk, I wish they could have moved the trucks closer. But I saw there were a lot of food vendors there, like Rubios, California Kitchen Pizza, Don Francisco's coffee, etc, I was glad that I had $20 with me so I was able to buy a hot dog and a slice of pizza. After hanginout for an hour or so, I walked to the Hot Dog on a Stick vendor and I got a Hot Dog, it was VERY good, then after awhile I walked back up to the finish line and stopped by McDonald's and bought another burger before I headed to my truck and drove home.<br /><br />Overall I really enjoyed the new course, although it was a bit challenging, but I love to see all the landmarks of LA that I never seen before, I am very looking forward to run this race again next year for my 11th straight year.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgao6Aqg9Ny9cnZkIG1MH0-8tOvZvq8oBzKBkAHxyCXKrXkH1w5Nc7B7ySqXLmUOHRb75_r2Z8JFg0-VJ8gxHPJoDV522wdLPQto5zMF7Pr_pCXlvs9TuyONjHLTCNbSx_jkiX4vhWpCts/s1600/PA231167.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgao6Aqg9Ny9cnZkIG1MH0-8tOvZvq8oBzKBkAHxyCXKrXkH1w5Nc7B7ySqXLmUOHRb75_r2Z8JFg0-VJ8gxHPJoDV522wdLPQto5zMF7Pr_pCXlvs9TuyONjHLTCNbSx_jkiX4vhWpCts/s400/PA231167.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452322417075417682" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Next Race............................The Great Race of Aguroa Hill,(Chesebro Half Marathon), 3-27-2010</span><br /></div></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div></div>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5587753232060618184.post-50615790870119257122010-03-08T14:00:00.000-08:002010-03-24T22:01:44.749-07:00Red Rock Canyon Marathon Recap<span style="font-family:arial;font-size:100%;">This is my </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span">5th</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"> marathon this year and </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span">61th</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"> marathon overall</span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><photo></photo></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span">It has been proven that it's possible to run a marathon after driven all night and had little to no sleep.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span">The Red Rock Canyon Marathon happened on Saturday, March 6th, 2010. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">Friday night, March 5th, 2010</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"> I got off work at 10pm, headed home, did my last minute packing and left my house by midnight. Then I stopped by the ARCO gas station to fill up my rental Mazda 5 and bought a 24oz coffee and on my way to Red Rock Casino, NV, where I will park my car and take the shuttle to Red Rock Canyon.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span">After 4 hours of driving I finally arrived at the Red Rock Casino at around 4:30am, the first bus that leave for the Red Rock Canyon was at 4:45am, so I got a little time to change and gather all the stuff that I needed to put in my drop bag. I finally got on the bus and we took off a few mins after I got on. The moment I got on the bus I saw Yolanda "Walkin Diva" was sitting by herself, so I decided to sit next to her and we chatted and shared our stories about our RNR New Orleans the weekend before.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span">We arrived at the Red Rock Canyon around 5:10am or so, it was still pretty dark, our bus driver was a little lost since there weren't much signs to lead him to where he should park. Finally one of the runner on the bus saw a waving sign in the distance and suggested him that he should just stop and let us just walk toward the signal which was held by the race director Joyce. I picked up my bib and shirt at the table and headed to the restroom area to get ready, it was really cold like around between 40's and 50's, kind of reminds me of the morning of the Chicago Marathon.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><photo></photo></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span">About 10mins before the race start, race director Joyce gathered us together and walked us to the starting line, which was only a few mins walk, she congrated a few runners who were celebrating their birthday that day, they were each wearing their birthday cone on their head so they were easy to spot.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuxdzsV-4qjJZOL7lMuo0VWSl3Z54K-gK1EXAqTeOAIxVF-KLzmLPhahREBoWwIn7PKHrpe_5LyhR0X_tkk28n1EsuG-BfxV8I2Z_kXnRSzAbNE8DVM3YUoVBRMFJmcZCOiISee96yfiA/s1600-h/PA081017.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuxdzsV-4qjJZOL7lMuo0VWSl3Z54K-gK1EXAqTeOAIxVF-KLzmLPhahREBoWwIn7PKHrpe_5LyhR0X_tkk28n1EsuG-BfxV8I2Z_kXnRSzAbNE8DVM3YUoVBRMFJmcZCOiISee96yfiA/s320/PA081017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446906778156298418" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">Me, Brook, Al and Steve gathered for a group pic before the race start.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></div></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span">After the race started, we had to do a little loop back up to the staging area and come back to the starting area for the first mile or so, then we will run straight on one of the most scenic course in NV for about 14 miles before the turnaround.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span">I got the following descriptions of the course from their website:</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">The Marathon course starts at the Red Rock Canyon Visitors' Center, at roughly 3740 feet elevation. After making one loop around the Visitors' Center runners then follow the paved scenic drive with traffic climbing to the summit overlook area at 4771 feet in the first 6 miles. The course continues over downhill, flat and rolling terrain. Marathoners will turn onto Oak Creek dirt road for a 0.35 mile out and back section (total 0.7) after which they will rejoin up again with the scenic drive continuing toward their turn around point; elevation approx 3800 feet. Runners will then return along the scenic drive against traffic, climbing back up to the summit overlook at 4771 feet elevation. The last 5 miles is a screaming downhill with a short climb back up to the Visitors' Center for the finish line. Preliminary measure: Total ascent= 1820'; total descent= 1791'; Net= +29'</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span">I forgot to bring my Garmin and my bottle with me so I was carrying a 32oz of Gatorade with me the whole time, I didnt know what I was thinking. But I was just out there enjoying the course and not worry about my time.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span">The first half of the course seem to go by fast, probably because of the beautiful scenic view that made you forgot that you are actually running. By mile 13, we had to run on this short dirt road for our first turnaround, then we had to run for another mile for our second turnaround point at Mile 14 before we head back to where we started.<photo></photo></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY5VgoAD6ePLxB5U9L-NJyDT5pUN7OQRZV9jClymlk_nEyg9RXJQ91xVDjve4mQo2Qd3pttQCvAQD-0VsO3xwjVUNuAmmcb9f8v9Ryg9HyZGTADEC2LECWB12l4Ww2Pq_AEIEhHivAvos/s320/PA081029.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446907619868063922" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" border="0" /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">Heading for our first turnaround at Mile 13.1</span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span">The second half of the course was more challenging than the first half since we had to go back up and face some uphills that used to be downhill before. The weather was still overcasted with a little headwind around Mile 21. Then 4 miles left to go, I felt like I was on a cruise control by following these brother-sister runner from VA, I think. I hung with them and used them as my pacer, then with 1 mile to go, the brother needed to slow down, so I took off and just followed the sister, then after we passed the Mile 26 marker, I told her that we are almost there and tried to help her to keep going since she helped me getting through the past few miles. I could have just sprinted to the finish line but I rather wanted to finish with her. We both crossed the finish line around </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span">4:40.26.</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"> Afterward, I thanked her for being my unofficial pacer. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span">After I waited for Yolanda, Jessica and Steve finished, we all headed back on the bus and back to Red Rock Casino to go our separate way, they all headed back to Cali while I stayed a night(more like a few hours) at Motel 6 by the Strip. I got my rest and left Vegas at 1am early Sunday morning and headed back to CA.<photo></photo></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><i><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Next Race..................... L.A. Marathon 3-21-2010 (My 10th Straight L.A. Marathon!!!)</span></span></i></span></div></span>Marathon Mitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13211708677523594761noreply@blogger.com0