Speedway Candy Cane 5k

12.16.17

so...I'm out of shape and haven't been running due to my significant ankle sprain a month ago.  But, in an effort to run 1 more race before the end of the year, and, due to the fact that Griff wanted to run this one, we were TMS bound in the cold, wet conditions for this 5k.

This run is coordinated by The Cowtown Marathon, and, is well supported by the local schools' run clubs.

we arrived to really cold temps and drizzle.  We hung out a bit inside the garage, before heading to the start line at race time.

Griff and I lined up together near the front, and I thought we might run together.  Clearly, I had forgotten how fast he's become and how slow I'd become.  When the horn sounded, we ran together briefly, and the little dude took off.  I posted a decent 8:22 mile 1, but, my heart was racing, and, pathetically, I had to stop and walk to get it to slow down.  The rest of the race would be much of the same for me, as my HR would near 170 bpm, and I'd have to walk a bit.

Per Strava, I ran a 28:41, or, 9:24 pace.  At least a minute per mile slower than where I should be.  It will be a long road back to base fitness.

Griff absolutely crushed his run and set a new PR on a tough course.  He ran a 24:50, or, a 7:58 pace. That little dude is running a sub 8 pace...unbelievable.

That'll do it for 2017.  I'll take a couple of weeks to enjoy the holidays, and, then get after it with a cleanse and focused training for IMTX.

FW Marathon 13.1 2017

11.12.17

I last ran in this event in 2015.  I set a (then) PR that day, and knew what to expect...a flat bring course on the trinity trails.

I had been scheduled to race in Bronda's Du this day, but, was unsure as to whether tor not my bike would be ready in time.  Tri Dallas was kind enough to allow me to defer my entry, so, FW Marathon it is.

I entered this race incredibly out of shape, as my fitness level had been in decline since summer.  That, coupled with my off-season mindset, led me to keep my expectations low. 

Rich would be waling in his 1st 13.1 ever, and, if nothing else, I was excited to be there to support him. 

I connected with a few friends before the race...






































When the horn sounded, we were off.  My default pace for 13.1's has been about 9:30.  Early on, I realized I would be slower than that, as my legs felt heavy, and,  I was feeling a few aches and pains. 

 I was averaging between 10:05 and 10:40 for the first 7 miles, and, other than a quick pee stop, was fairly consistent.  Then, the wheels fell off.  My walks thru water stops got longer and longer.  Miles 9-12 were painfully slow with lots of walking.  About that time, I ran into Glenn, who was out for a training run.  He insisted that he run me in.  We ran and chatted, and, honestly, it was just what I needed, as I got back to a mid 10's pace. 

Hard to feel good about this one, but, done. I cheered Rich in, and hung with friends for a bit afterwards.