Marathon Monday - Full Recap

6:13am – Wake up call from Meredith Freese. Made sure to go over all logistics for the Marathon and said to her that I was going back to sleep for 6 minutes.

6:20am – Alarm goes off. The Boston Marathon is one day that you do not hit the snooze button. I always think of the story of Jean Paul from the 1992 Barcelona Summer Olympics. “Why separate knob, why?” – Seinfeld reference

6:23am – Shower and wondering why soap and shampoo is necessary right now, but still cleaned up nicely before getting my running gear on.

7:10am – After a Natty Valley bar and a bagel it was off on the road to head to Hopkinton. Listened to Jay Z in the car with mom.

7:50am – Arrived at a foggy Hopkinton State Park to board school busses to get to the starting line on RT 135.

8:00am – Not a lot of hype or excitement on the short bus ride. No click-clack and no we must protect this house being yelled on the bus. No thunderstruck or welcome to the jungle on the speakers.

8:08am – After a short walk to the DFMC refuge at the church, I checked in and got a big hug from Sarah Neukom. Took a quick loop around the church to say hi to the volunteers, to welcome many of the 562 runners, and just grabbed a seat to chill out for the next 2 hours.

8:40am – The winners talk. Three time Boston Marathon and Berlin Marathon winner, Uta Pippig, addresses all the Dana-Farber runners and talks to us about strategy on the course. She reminded us that it is ok to walk at points if you need the rest, and then goes onto say she had to walk once and still ended up winning. Coach Jack Fultz, 1976 winner, also gives us a quick talk to prepare mentally.

9:08am – Head outside for the team photo.

9:24am – Went off into one of the classrooms in the Church for some stretching. I typically don’t stretch in rooms with a crucifix.

10:05am – Discussed race strategy with running buddy Julie Nielsen. Said we would do a 2:15 – 2:20 half and a 2:10 – 2:15 second half. Came very close to that.

10:25am – Pushed our way through the corrals, and picked a good spot for the start. Once again this would be a good time for some emotional speech. We must protect these roads!

10:34am – Right before crossing the starting line, I saw Ali Lewinter and got a hug.

10:36am – Crossed the starting line.

10:37am – Realized Julie was getting caught up in the excitement and going out too fast. I pulled her back. Mantra for the Boston Marathon—“Hold back, hold back, hold back”

10:44am – Halfway through the first mile and remembered how much of a descent there is from Hopkinton. Way too many downhill’s.

11:01am – Running along the left side of the road in Ashland, couple dudes were standing in front of a cooler, one handing out water bottles and the other handing out Bud cans. Stay classy Ashland.

11:20am – Two towns down, and now onto Framingham. Over/Under: How many times would I see a “Yes You Can” themed sign or banner? The line will be three. Spot the first one in Framingham. If you took the over, well you lose, only saw that one sign. Maybe it was more popular in the Chicago or New York Marathon.

11:34am – Just before mile 6, I come up to the family. GU stop #1.

11:40am – At the intersection of RT 135 and RT 126 in downtown Framingham, shocked to see a sign that read, “Boston Marathon – 26.2 miles from Hopkinton to Boston. Framingham – The road begins here for all illegal aliens.” Under any other circumstances I would have done something about this. And also wondering why any of the hundreds of people standing around the intersection didn’t step in.

11:58am – We pass another Dana-Farber runner who was on his 50th marathon in 50 states.

12:34pm – First sounds of the “Scream Tunnel” – Wellesley College girls. A lot were wearing a shirt that read “Free Kisses”, some had signs asking to be kissed, all were screaming. One runner was getting a lot of action along the side of the road. And no, that runner was not me.

12:54pm – Halfway home.

1:05pm – Julie had told me that her mom would be along the left side of the road shortly after the 13.1 mile mark, and we kept running along and I was getting worried that we wouldn’t see Jan Nielsen. If we passed her mom, I’d make sure to run back with Julie to find her. Seeing family gets you going and keeps you going on a day like this. We did pass Jan, who came in all the way from Iowa for her daughter. I’m sure it was great for both of them.

1:22pm – Mile 15—It all starts now. Grossman’s hill can be torture for later in the race if you head down into Newton Lower Falls too quickly. A lot of runners think the hills start on Comm Ave, but the first climb is actually after going down this hill, as it is a hike up the bridge over RT 128/I-95.

1:33pm – GU stop #3 at the Newton Wellesley Hospital, just about mile 16.5. At this point last year my uncle and cousin jumped in to run alongside me for maybe 100 yards. Through 16 miles last year I was unable to communicate. Totally different this year, because I looked to Julie and said “Alright, let’s go.”

1:41pm – I took the turn onto Comm Ave, and it must have been muscle memory, because I just began attacking the hills. My strides were great and I was going at a pace that was faster than all previous 17 miles. All throughout training I kept saying to myself “Hold back until BC and after that take off.” So I started a few miles early, but was ready for one amazing finish for the marathon.

1:46pm – Julie and I agreed that at any point if one of us felt we could go faster, we would take off. I left my running buddy behind me and wouldn’t see her until I got back to the Marriott.

2:02pm – I hear “Yeah Eric, yeah Eric!!” It’s Katy Barrett waiting for Sarah and asking me too many questions that required a real stop and chat, and I was not about to do that.

2:07pm – First side-pains appear and thankfully there was a water stop just after Heartbreak Hill. Had some Gatorade, and walked for about 15 seconds. The pain went away and now running by Boston College, where it seemed as though all the students were 4 or 5 deep on each side.

2:17pm – Made a sharp turn onto Chestnut Hill Ave and onto Beacon St. Got my 4th GU from Steph, and was followed by her and Jesse chasing after me. Jesse with beer in hand and yelling “you got this Ric!”

2:19pm – Was handed Jelly Beans by Deb, and of course took them. I could have been handed anything at that moment and probably would have tried eating it.

2:22pm – Just got tired of chewing Jelly Beans so I spit them out.

2:45pm – I can see the Citgo sign! Almost there.

2:50pm – I was saving some energy for the last 2 miles. It is so great to have the Dana-Farber cheering section on the Kenmore bridge.

2:58pm – The last stretch on Comm Ave, under the Mass Ave bridge is now by far my least favorite part of the course.

3:02pm – Finally on Boylston St and exerting all my energy possible. As I’m about to cross the finish line I yell out and do my best Randy Moss touchdown celebration.

3:08pm – After posing for a few photos, I got my medal, and continued walking down Boylston, but seriously considered collapsing so a wheel chair would escort me back to the Marriott.

3:20pm – Freezing cold outside and my body temperature is dropping drastically. Finally see my mom and got a big hug. My mom and sister both started asking me too many questions, and I said, “I’ll talk later, just get me to the Marriott.”

3:31pm – Finally inside the hotel, and I head straight to the recovery area. More hugs from runners and the DFMC staff.

3:40pm – Got on a massage table and let some PT’s go to work on my legs.

3:45pm – Two PT’s massaging my legs and I’m just laying back fully taking in the moment. 33 minutes faster than last year, every step, every mile, every time I heard “Go Eric” it was amazing.

4:04pm – Done with the massage and now to clean up, no shower, just wet wipes and paper towels.

4:28pm – While eating some food, my mom texted me saying that we had to leave soon so we wouldn’t go over extra time in the garage. Yeah we got out of the garage before 5:00pm, so it was only $10 to park.

5:40pm – Finally got back to my apt with a few pizzas from Pino’s. Went over the race with my friends that were chilling there, had a couple slices of pizza, a bud light, and was still enjoying the day.

6:25pm – Getting ready to watch the Bruins and Celtics playoff games. Could it be a Boston sweep on Marathon Monday?

10:02pm – Ray Allen hits a go-ahead three with 2 seconds left in the game. Celtics win, Bruins win, Sox win, and the Boston Marathon was amazing. What a day.

11:54pm – Pass out and decide that I am going to work in the morning.

Final Training Run

The goal for this weekend was to get my rest and carbs, but to also enjoy as much of the events and hours leading up to the Boston Marathon. So I made sure to bring some friends along for my final training run on an overcast Saturday morning. I contemplated putting them through a challenging 5k along the Charles, but I felt we would all be better served just enjoying a short 2.6 mile loop along the river. And really, what would these few miles do to me...aside from just making my muscles work a little...but now I'm worried as to what physical and mental shape one of my running buddies is in.

Perhaps this will become an annual event, but to kick it off at approx 10:45am, Deb, Dustin, Andrea and I headed out on a run. I introduced Andrea to GU, popped by own GU as well since I didn't have anything to eat at this point, and then we were off on the run. The mix of runners was interesting; one marathon runner, one former high school track runner, one just looking to get in shape before a trip to Florida and Vegas, and one that probably could not tell you the last time she decided to go for a run any distance longer than a mile. Regardless, I was glad they all joined me.

There was some walking mixed into the run, but perfectly OK as the weather was cooperating. I started to worry if it would rain. What would we do? I know Deb and Dustin would probably pick up their pace, and I know I could run off for shelter pretty fast, but that would leave Andrea to find someway to fend for herself. Thankfully it did not come to this, but I would have done the right thing as a runner and a gentleman, offered up my jacket and escorted the group to shelter.

We all completed the 2.6 miles, which was a great accomplishment. I realize I have to do 10 times that on Monday, but I'll enjoy this short run for what it meant to me and to my running buddies. And I should let them know that with that run I have now completed 580.32 miles out on the roads since October 1st. Come Monday I will have run over 600 miles in 6 months. That's insane.

Following the run, Deb and Dustin did some more running, but Andrea and I went to find some food. I took her inside the world of running this weekend by heading to the Marathon Expo at the Hynes Convention Center. Sampled some Larabars, Clif Bars, Clif Shots, and GU shots, as we both walked around in amazement at what was going on just off of Boylston Street. It's fun to play the part of a tour guide in the city, but I handed off that role a little later in the day to be shown the new Ipod shuffle and jam out to Maroon 5. Not entirely proud that I knew some of the songs, but it was still fun playing with the shuffle which is more like a paper clip.

Just to go to show how enjoyable Saturday morning was, I'm not at all bummed that the Celtics lost today. Now it's time for pasta and carbo-load dinner #1, followed by either more Arrested Development or watching one of the Naked Gun films.

Friday Festivities

All week I kept saying how I just want to get to Friday. Friday last year got me so pumped up and excited for the Marathon, that I just wanted that excitement back. Not only was Friday eventful and exciting, it was also a very nice day--sunny and 70 degrees. Sweet.

I am trying to watch what I eat this weekend, therefore for lunch I just went to Dunkin Donuts and got two plain bagels. Boring for sure, but I walked around Harvard St. for a little and also sat down in a park to just read through some emails and tweets. I should have known that while I was out for lunch some office buddies would have left me with a small gift, perhaps a GU or PowerBar for the Marathon, but I did not expect what was actually at my desk. I came back to see streamers, balloons, Clif Bar shots, GU, photos from the marathon last year, and a Go Eric Go sign. It made my day, so a big shout out and a thanks to my marathon office buddies. Thanks for all the sneaky support!

I took off from work at 4:00pm to head over to the Marathon expo at Hynes and the DFMC check-in at the Marriott. Last year at the expo I bought a shirt or gift for each member of the family that was coming to watch the Marathon, however this year the expo was too overwhelming to buy much of any mementos. I did walk around with expo-buddy, Karla, and enjoyed sampling all the free energy bars and sport candy. I did check out what Nike had, and got a nice shirt to wear post Marathon. I just got to a point that I was tired, my legs were physically drained, and my mind was drained from the madness at the expo that I just headed to Copley to check in with the DFMC team.

The unfortunate part of Friday was that the Red Sox were home that evening, so leaving from the Copley T stop was just madness, because all the fans were on their way to the stadium at 6:30pm. I was packed into the T and all uncomfortable next to some people that needed to take care of their body odor. I finally made it home and had a light dinner, checked into my room, and was in bed to watch some Arrested Development.

I can count down the hours now.

Cheers to the Boston Marathon

The festivities began Thursday night at the annual Cheers to the Boston Marathon cocktail reception at the Hampshire House (just above Cheers). A special thanks to the DFMC office for extending an invite to me, because it was a really great kick off to the 113th Boston Marathon.

The evening included many Hors D'oeuvres, most of which I missed since I got there late. However, I did not miss three mini ocean burgers, one mini cheeseburger, a few spinach and feta strudel, and an eggplant and goat cheese empanada that seemed to really miss the eggplant and goat cheese. Yes I was hungry--ran 6 miles right after work--and I realize I was not there to critique the food. Aside from the food, bar, and very eloquent setting, most attendees were there to honor Boston's two most famous bartenders; Eddie Doyle and Tommy Leonard. I should have introduced myself to Eddie Doyle, so that I would know he indeed knew every one's name--a Cheers reference that we're all too young for.

I did get to shake hands with Tommy Leonard as he was leaving the bar, and then had to google the name as soon as I got home. I knew very little of both men, but most people in this city and anyone at least 15 - 20 years older than me, would know these two gentlemen. Eddie Doyle, of course AKA Sam Malone from the NBC show Cheers, and Tommy Leonard is known as the "Official Greeter for the Boston Marathon".

Following their speeches, a cheers was made to the Marathon and all the runners, and then the Lighting of the B.A.A Lamp. Picture the Olympic torch lighting ceremony but on a scale that is a million times smaller (not covered across the world) but really holds more significance to me now. In the room there was also a slide show of Adidas sponsorship and posters--my favorite being "When was the last time you accomplished so much on a Monday".

There was a great group of DFMC runners in attendance, and we were all getting out the nerves and emotions leading up to Monday. I also chatted briefly with Jack Fultz, winner of the 1976 Boston Marathon and DFMC team coach, before I left. Jack has been all over Boston.com and other local blogs giving advice on the last couple of days leading up the the Marathon. He is a wealth of knowledge on running and has great advice such as, "Think of the Marathon as a graduation and a celebration rather than a final exam." I'm ready to go out and enjoy it much more then I did last year.

Finally I just have to add another running story from Thursday. I wanted to go out for an intense 6 mile run after work, to end my training with a feeling like I can run anything. The run was OK - not great. About two tenths of a mile from my apartment I came up to another runner who immediately turned to me and asked, "Is this the road that the Boston Marathon is on?" I answered, and asked him where he was trying to go, and lastly gave him directions on how to get to the finish line. As my uncle said to me when I told him about this story, it is like the joke--how do I get to Carnegie Hall? I could have easily answered this guy by saying "lots of training" when he asked me "How do I get to the finish line?"

A collection of running quotes.

For the last 6 miles during the marathon last year my mantra became “whatever it takes.” I kept repeating that to myself, even as other Dana-Farber runners would be passing me yelling “looking good Eric.” Thanks for the vote of confidence at that time, but I was in rough shape and was well aware of it, therefore my entire focus was on getting to the finish line.

Not sure what I will be saying this year, but here is a collection of 26 (.2) quotes before the marathon. The only thing I can add is, “If running 26.2 miles didn’t register as crazy, the voices in your head will let you know.” – Me, 4 days before the marathon. But, not so secretly, I wouldn’t be running if I didn’t think it was important. Now, I’m excited.

MILE 1 We can blaze! Become legends in our own time, strike fear in the heart of mediocre talent everywhere! We can scald dogs, put records out of reach! Make the stands gasp as we blow into an unearthly kick from three hundred yards out! We can become God's own messengers delivering the dreaded scrolls! We can race dark Satan himself till he wheezes fiery cinders down the back straightaway! They'll speak our names in hushed tones, 'Those guys are animals' they'll say! We can lay it on the line, bust a gut, show them a clean pair of heels. We can sprint the turn on a spring breeze and feel the winter leave our feet! --John L. Parker, Jr.
MILE 2 Start slow, then taper off. --Walt Stack
MILE 3 Whatever you think you can do or believe you can do, begin it. Action has magic, grace and power in it. --Goethe
MILE 4 Life is a succession of moments. To live each one is to succeed. --Corita Kent
MILE 5 If I want to tell you the most about a person in the fewest words, I simply say, "he's a runner." --Paul Fetscher
MILE 6 Some of the world's greatest feats were accomplished by people not smart enough to know they were impossible. --Doug Larson
MILE 7 Those who say it cannot be done should not interrupt those doing it. --Michael Johnson's trainer
MILE 8 We can't all be heroes because someone has to sit on the curb and clap as they go by. --Will Rogers
MILE 9 No doubt a brain and some shoes are essential for marathon success, although if it comes down to a choice, pick the shoes. More people finish marathons with no brains than with no shoes. - Don Kardong
MILE 10 We are different, in essence, from other men. If you want to win something, run 100 meters. If you want to experience something, run a marathon. --Emil Zatopek
MILE 11 The highest reward for one's toil is not what one gets for it, but what one becomes by it. --John Ruskin
MILE 12 Most people run a race to see who is fastest. I run a race to see who has the most guts. --Steve Prefontaine
MILE 13 Champions do not become champions when they win the event, but in the hours, weeks, months and years that they spend preparing for it. The victorious performance is merely the demonstration of their championship character." --T. Alan Armstrong
MILE 14 To a runner, a side stitch is like a car alarm. It signifies something is wrong, but you ignore it until it goes away. -- Anonymous
MILE 15 DO or DO NOT. There is no TRY --Jedi Master Yoda
MILE 16 Pain is weakness leaving the body. --Anonymous
MILE 17 The marathon can humble you. --Bill Rodgers
MILE 18 What counts in battle is what you do when the pain sets in. --John Short
MILE 19 Most people never run far enough on their first wind to find out they've got a second. --William James
MILE 20 I just run as hard as I can for 20 miles, and then race. --Steve Jones
MILE 21 Enjoy your pain, you've earned it. --Anonymous
MILE 22 Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after another. --Walter Elliott
MILE 23 It hurts up to a point and then it doesn't get any worse. --Ann Trason
MILE 24 When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on. --President Teddy Roosevelt
MILE 25 Most die. --middle-aged Japanese triathlete, just after the Ironman
MILE 26 A hero is no braver than an ordinary man, but he is brave five minutes longer. --Ralph Waldo Emerson
---.2--- The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start. --John Bingham

One week away

Less than one week away from the marathon and all I want to think about is what I'm going to eat and drink after I finish. I do realize that there are few options that would actually be satisfying after running 26 miles, so I'll go easy on my stomach for at least a few hours post-run.

There were a few times during training that I lost 4-6 pounds over the course of a long run, so if I look very famished late Monday afternoon I'll make sure to eat a lot the following day. And I don't plan on messing around with any salads or cereal after the marathon, I'm going back to the heavy stuff: pizza, burritos, and a cheeseburger (not all at once of course).

I don't think there is any other week of training as mentally gruelling as this week. Running when it was 2 degrees outside at the start of February was tough, but just trying to keep all the emotions in check at this point is far more challenging. I know what to expect this year and I am looking forward to finally getting to expo Friday. Looking for some new Nike running gear.

I will be getting in 3 more runs before Monday; 4 miles Tuesday night, 7 miles Thursday night, and a 3 mile run along the Charles River Saturday morning. I invite anyone to join a marathon runner for that 3 mile run Saturday--I'll be taking it easy don't worry.

I also have to say that I am very happy that so many have helped me raise $6,518.20 for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Still so much work to do.

The Ten Day Forecast

Back in February of 2008 I claimed that the weather on Marathon Monday that year would be perfect. And by perfect I mean low 60's and sunny. The early hours of Marathon Monday in 2008 were overcast, but as soon as we got to the starting line it was sunny. If you don't believe me you can always ask Karla Corapi.

Now that I can look to the always reliable 10-day forecast on weather.com, I see that the forecast for Monday, April 20, is a high of 53 - low of 43 - with 30% chance of showers. Aside from being insanely cold in January, and getting hit with a snow storm a week before Christmas, the weather has cooperated and at points just been amazing for training.

At least right now I can assume that in the next 10 days, the weather will not fluctuate to below freezing or above 70, which would make for poor running conditions. Truthfully, I would prefer if it were in the 60's and sunny, which would work well for me, family, thousands watching, and the Red Sox game.

The weather will be stressing me out the entire week coming up until I know for sure what the weather will be. I have a good feeling that it will be much nicer than what weather.com has right now. Stay posted for the forecast.

Top Five: Did not expect to see that when running!

5. Rocky must have put on a few pounds, shrunk, and now has grey hair, because someone was jump-roping while running on Comm. Ave. I would need a friend to check on this, but I don’t think adding jump-roping to running enhances the work-out or burns more calories. Also, what about potentially tripping?

4. Busted…It might have been a day in January or February, but I was running up Tremont St in the direction of Park St, just past the Boylston T stop, when I saw two people get arrested. Probably selling drugs in the Commons, however I did not stop to investigate the scene.

3. Of course another time that I chose not to investigate the scene, or hang around to ask questions, occurred on Comm. Ave in Newton. As I was heading back on my seven mile loop, racing up Heartbreak Hill, I heard the loud screech of a car slamming on the breaks. Next thing, BOOM! This car went right into the back of another car that was waiting at the Hammond St light. I hadn’t seen a car crash in a while, and thankfully I could tell that aside from the damage to the cars this was not serious, therefore I just kept running.

2. Dinner for five. Early in my training I was doing a four to five mile loop around Brookline and was running up Harvard St, when I passed Matt Murphy’s Pub, and caught fellow DFCI & Jimmy Fund Development colleagues Ginny, Amy, Katie, Annie, and Susan, dining at the restaurant. I think they were more shocked to see me, as I decided to just walk in the restaurant to say hi for a minute before I went back to my run. Thanks though for offering to get me a beer, I would have stayed yet I never feel comfortable in a restaurant in sweaty clothes.

1. Along a DFMC 16 mile group run from Longfellow Athletic Club in Wayland to Concord and back, I stopped just about halfway at a Dunkin Donuts on the corner of RT 117 to use the bathroom. In the men’s room, I looked up at the smoke detector and noticed two swastikas drawn in a sharpie. I was enraged and stormed out and asked to speak to the manager. Of course while I was waiting to speak to the manager I realized that I would have to explain to this person, most likely not from the U.S., what the symbol stood for. It’s a sad moment to know that so many like her have no idea and could not care. I briefly told her that it is a symbol of hate and that if it is not cleaned off, or if the smoke detector is not replaced, I will be back in 4 weeks to handle it myself. Cooler heads prevailed in this moment, because I could have easily decided to yell at the patrons sitting in Dunkin Donuts that morning, but I went back out and proceeded with my run.

Like I said, I would be back in 4 weeks for another run out of Wayland. The run was actually 20 miles this time. I made the requisite stop back in Dunkin Donuts to check the smoke detector and did notice that the marks were wiped clean. I did not expect to see the swastika four weeks prior, and that day also did not expect to see them gone. So Concord I am calling you out. Whoever did it will probably never care or learn better, but will just continue thinking its funny. That’s Concord Massachusetts for you.

Crossroads

Tonight was a very eventful run from the Woodland T station to Crossroads pub--aka Crossroads run, which is just under 9 miles. I started out with fellow DFMC runner, running buddy for the night, Sarah Said She Did. Along the way we also picked up DFMC stragglers and lonesome souls out for an enjoyable, yet humid and damp run. Actually, we only just came across Meredith who was stretching off the side of Commonwealth Ave.

So we set off, a couple Bates grads, and me in my Kappa shorts - camo shirt - and a nike jacket. Sarah and I were just going on and on about the parts that we really hated about miles 17 - 21 from the marathon last year, but swore to myself that this year will be different. Just more prepared this year, not stressed out, and did I say more prepared?

I did not alert my running buddy that come the halfway point of the run I would pick up my pace. But at least I heard from Sarah and Meredith that they were glad I was running faster on the second half of the run because it forced them to push harder. I hope it doesn't impact their runs Saturday.

And to the water cooler talk for Friday morning. I learned tonight that each major sponsor, Nike, Addidas, New Balance, Asics, etc...have to partner with a running/sporting store in Boston in order to get to the Marathon Expo. So my sponsor (I wish) Nike is partnering with City Sports, and has a 26.2 Marathon trolley that will be around the streets of Boston, and on the course, for the days (17) leading up to the Marathon. Tonight the Trolley was on Beacon St, just after Cleveland Circle. If I needed water, G, powerbars, or as Meredith needed a hair-tie, this Trolley is the stop. I'll look for the Trolley again so they can give me some sneakers.

Then the run got more exciting as we saw old faces, and familiar faces, on Beacon St. For the sake of anonymity, I'll say that Sarah and I ran by Dill Bavidson. I'm not one for a stop and chat on a long run, it might have been awkward anyways. I actually haven't seen a friend while running in a long time, but tonight in Washington Square, Meredith saw a friend from her class at Bates. Try this for a stop and chat, run for 6.5 miles--try to gather as much info as possible--where are you working? What are you doing these days? Are you running the Boston Marathon? All of which are questions one has to be prepared for, but as soon as the Walk light is on, the conversation is over.

Towards the end of the run I was pushing it, but kept hoping my running buddies were not fading. Food really motivates me, therefore I picked up my pace anticipating pizza at Crossroads. This bar is really the underground scene for runners, which makes me wonder why we have to share the second floor with BU students. Are they not bothered by our stink after a 9 mile run? So as runners gather at the pub for beer and pizza, there is also a beirut tournament every Thursday night. Soon enough I'll want to enjoy both running and competing in a beirut tournament.

As I want to wrap this up, with a head-ache and a good night of sleep ahead of me, I can say that I am excited for the next 2 1/2 weeks before the Boston Marathon.

Runner's Diet

Far from the infamous Michael Phelps 12,000 calorie diet, runners eat much healthier. Training for a marathon also allows me to eat whatever I want, because my eyes can never be bigger than my stomach when I know I’ll burn off those calories with a long run. Personally, I like to attack two different food triangles. First of course being the unhealthy, high-calorie, and foods not beneficial to running. And then as tough as it is sometimes, I go to getting a proper intake of proteins, whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

Here’s how I make up for burning 2400 calories on an 18 mile run. Post run I go for either a bagel and cream cheese or an egg breakfast sandwich. If every DFMC group run was held at Mt. Auburn Club in Watertown, then I would be able to treat myself to a few bagels, cookies (switching it up between chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin), fruits, and yogurt.

Also, very important post-run, aside from showering to get out the stink, I need to load up on protein and fluids. I take in water and orange juice, as well as eggs.

“One egg fulfills about 10 percent of your daily protein needs. Eggs contain all the crucial amino acids your hard-working muscles need to promote recovery. Eat just one of these nutritional powerhouses and you'll also get about 30 percent of the Daily Value (DV) for vitamin K, which is vital for healthy bones.”

“If you don’t replace electrolytes, particularly sodium, you won’t be able to absorb the fluid you’re drinking. This means that you could be drinking plenty, but not re-hydrating.”

It is definitely nice that as a DFMC runner we get treated to massages after the marathon, but how about also getting treated to an omelet bar? After the marathon last year I didn’t even have the stomach for half a beer, so this year I have made sure to incorporate beer into my training. I certainly don’t recommend finishing a run with alcohol, but it is enjoyable. And with all the weight loss involved after a long run, whether it be 9 miles or 20 miles, it’ll take fewer carbs and calories to get a buzz from bud light.

I do stay healthy during training; please don’t get confused about all my indulgences from running. I put a lot of focus on carbo-loading prior to my long runs with the help of barilla plus multi-grain pasta. For any run longer than 16 miles, I’ll start increasing my intake of pasta and carbs two days prior to run. It definitely helped with my first 20 mile run.

“Pasta has long been a runner's best friend because it contains easily digestible carbs that help you restock spent glycogen (energy) stores. Whole-grain versions are a must over refined pastas because they contain more fiber to fill you up, additional B vitamins that are crucial to energy metabolism, and disease-fighting compounds such as lignans. And even better, pastas such as Barilla Plus offer whole-grain goodness along with heart-healthy omega-3 fats from ground flaxseed and added protein from a special formula of ground lentils, multigrains, and egg whites to help with muscle repair and recovery.”

Post-run and pre-run nutrition is pretty much self explainable, but the other component is eating during the run. If I don’t hydrate during a run, I will start losing my strength and endurance just about at mile 8. And if I plan on going more than 8 miles, I’m creating a bad situation for myself. Thankfully, the wonderful DFMC volunteers have peanut M&M’s stocked at the water stops. I start with 4-6 peanut M&M’s 6 miles into a run, and then will have roughly the same amount at 3 mile increments. These treats give me a small amount of protein, some good sugar, sodium, and just a tasty and enjoyable snack. I’ll also add 1 – 2 GU’s to give me some energy and a boost from caffeine. GU’s give me my great break-away speed, which is very similar to Randy Moss’ capability.

All this talk about food makes me look forward to the long runs so I can put the calories back on with a burrito from chipotle, buffalo chicken slice from the Brookline Spa, cheeseburger from R.F. O’Sullivan’s. But after my most recent long run, going to Sunset for nachos and beer was a great treat.

Mile_4/Day_178

Not even ice, stretching, and CVS brand extra strength pain relievers have eased the aches on my body. Following a 23 mile run that should be expected, but I think if I get back to the gym tomorrow night for more stretching and some cross-training then my muscles will recover. Today I realized that I'm so happy the marathon is only 3 weeks away. I won't have to deal with this pain again until 4/21.

3/28 Running Diary--Transcript of the day

6:00am – Wake up. I just stared at my alarm—summoning enough will power to not hit snooze.

6:10am – Jump into a hot shower to try and ease some of the muscle pains.

6:43am – Light breakfast that consists of a Natty Valley bar and an English muffin.

7:10am – Left the apartment to walk up to the B Line to catch a T to BC.

7:11am – Quickly felt compelled to walk the mile to BC, so that one day I could say I traveled from Brookline to Natick and then back. “See in my day we didn’t have any of these fancy hover crafts to transport us from place to place.”

7:28am – That plan fell apart, as the T showed up one stop before BC. We’ll get to my angst with the T and the B Line again later.

7:40am – Arrive on campus and really hoping to see BC’s finest partaking in the walk of shame. No luck.

7:45am – Announcements from Jan and Jack, light stretching, and going over my GU strategy. The plan calls for GU at miles 5, 10.5, and 17.

8:06am – Start out from the “Johnny” Flynn recreation center at BC. I would have liked to see BC have a better run in the tournament, same goes for Cuse.

8:55am – Get to the second water stop, at the Gulf station right before Woodland T Station. 5 miles into the run in 49 minutes is fine with me. This run somewhat simulates the changes of elevation on race day, so starting out slow going down heartbreak and the second hill is the right way to go about it. Looking forward to seeing the DFMC cheering section here on 4/20!

9:18am – Getting questions from other DFMC runners about when the next water stop is coming up. I’ve appointed myself as the official tour guide for the team. But I give the worst tours ever, because I’m not interested in talking, or going into the history of Wellesley, 7 miles into a run.

9:24am – Water stop #3 right by the Wellesley fields and tennis courts that I got my ass handed to in every tennis match in high school.

9:35am – Pass by the Bank of America in Wellesley that got held-up this week. This state has got a serial bank robber with some serious balls. I don’t think it will be pulled off a third time. Dude is going down soon.

9:49am – Arrive to the fourth water stop which is 10.5 miles out. Welcome to Natick! My running partner Julie decides she is turning around here. 2 weeks ago I forced her to do 20, but I could see the look in her face, no persuading needed—she was turning around. Check out her website http://www.juliedoesbeantown.tumblr.com. Sorry bro’s not what you’re thinking, just an entertaining blog.

10:10am – After leaving Julie, continuing through Natick and thankfully noticing the Dana-Farber cones chilling on the sidewalk marking the turn-around point, I’m 10.5 miles away from BC. Thanks so much to the amazing DFMC volunteers! Best out there today!

10:12am – Pass by Kay and Katy, DFMC teammates and event extraordinariness’, as I come up to the Wellesley College fields.

10:22am – All the elite runners from the other charities have passed and are passing me now. I want to know if running 22 miles is easier from Hopkinton to BC or BC to Natick and back.

10:30am – I realize that the last 8.1 miles are going to be a battle.

10:34am – Not feeling as strong as I would like to, but at least had something nice to look at in front of me in pink shorts. But she was running too fast therefore I was back to thinking about the pain.

10:55am – I hear 2 runners approaching behind me. One says, “What a nice day, we are so blessed.” I don’t think this was a religious interpretation of his running or just a comment on the nice weather, but at that moment I looked up and it was just a perfect day. It took my mind off the running and I was just able to reflect. Yes, I really am blessed for this opportunity, this weather, the city, the amazing people I have come to know, and the money I have been able to fundraise over the past 2 years. $14,000 raised for cancer research over the past two years is something to be proud of, but still got a lot more work to do. Of course I wish the circumstances were different, but the support from so many has helped immensely. I’m blessed and grateful for that as well.

11:25am – Woohoo just 2.5 miles to BC!

11:40am – The moment we’ve been waiting for, heartbreak hill. Let the inner monologue begin. I kept saying to myself; do not crap out on this hill like you did last year. Intense, I know, but my mind and body battle so much on these long runs. I’ve heard from a lot of people that when you come up to this point, just look down and focus on the road. Well, quite the contrary to my plan of attack for the hill today. Head up, eyes directly on the end of the hill, and don’t give in. So a few minutes later I conquered heartbreak and was onto my final descent back to BC. Going downhill at this point is just killing my quads, but I was still pushing and exerting all my energy to finish strong.

11:52am – Finish what you have started! Run around the BC campus, along the same route I started to get back to the Flynn rec center.

Stats: 22.7 miles in 3:46:00. Average pace – 9:56 per mile. Have to be better prepared for the Marathon in 3 weeks.

12:04pm – While everyone was stretching I decided a shoot-around on the basketball court would be a good way to loosen up. I also racked up 2 wins in PIG, over Julie Nielsen, who had the highest free-throw percentage and 3-pt percentage in Iowa during high school. I will conduct a fact check on that later.

12:36pm – Left the gym, and still it is such an amazing day. Hustled as painfully as it was to the T to take that back. I did not want to walk. I was waving to the T-driver, and I know she saw me, but would not open the doors. I let her have it—hopefully she heard me. Would someone print – I hate the MBTA – shirts? So I just walked it home. Don’t worry, I’m over it now.

1:55pm – Sitting outside I see Jesse walking back from playing some ball. Here is how the dialogue transpired. Read on.

Me: You get a game doing at the court?
Jesse: Yeah, some people playing. What have you been up to today?
Me: I ran 23 miles this morning (runners round up distance and round down time)
Jesse: Damn, how was that?
Random Guy: Wait did you just say you ran 23 miles this morning?
Me: Yes I did. I’m a bit of a local celebrity around here.
Random Guy: Wow, I want to shake your hand. That’s impressive.
Random Guy’s wife: He just stopped in his tracks and turned around while we were having a conversation to ask you about your run.
Random Guy: Are you running the marathon? You should win.
Me: Yeah I’ll try that. Nice meeting you.

2:06pm – Big brunch at Johnny’s luncheonette in Newton. The wait was too long at Zaftigs.

The rest of the day is going to be interesting. Walking around is a horrible task, yet I am going to the Cask N Flagon with some runners and for some drinks. Then will be meeting up with my friends later on Boylston St. If I happen to fall asleep in any location, or collapse under my weak legs, I hope that I am not kicked out of the bar. I am going to wear my 2008 marathon jacket, so that way I can at least say I ran 23 miles this morning to train for the 2009 marathon. Tomorrow it is back to the gym to stretch, do some bike and other cardio to get the muscles working again. Just about 3 weeks to go, and I never made it past 14 miles in training last year.

Mile_2/Day_176

Ahhh back to running...Guess how many miles tonight? 9.26 miles--Woodland T stop to Hynes T stop. Tonight during the first half of my run I came to realize that this would be the last time I would be physcially and mentally capable to just take in everything around me during a run on the course. 25 days out from the Boston Marathon I will have one more long run (22 miles) covering parts of Comm Ave and one final push on a Crossroads run. This was my chance to put aside my pace for the first 4.5 miles and think about my training.

Top 5: Places to be Seen Running in Boston

I have had 10 months to live and run in Boston and here are my top 5 calls on the best places to be seen running. I didn’t want to label this as the top 5 places to run in Boston, because it’s all pavement and concrete, sidewalks and streets that can take you anywhere. So limit your running to the cool places to run in the city.

5. Charles St. Beacon Hill – Beacon Hill is one of the nicest areas to run in Boston, but what I really enjoy about Charles St is that it is great path from the Commons to the Charles. I recommend staying on the street while running through Beacon Hill, because the brick sidewalks can put some stress on your feet and legs after a couple miles into a run. Stop in the Starbucks on the right side of the street if you are coming from Beacon St. The baristas will gladly get you a cup of water so you are able to re-hydrate. Maybe you’ll run into someone you know as they are getting a Grande Espresso Frappuccino. That always makes for a good conversation. While you’re in the area, I also recommend running Mt. Vernon St., which is a quiet street with some wicked nice houses. It will take your mind off of the running, just thinking about what it might be like living over here.

4. State St, Boston Harbor side – State St. between Congress and the Surface Rd is nothing special, but on the other side, State St connects into the Long Wharf. If you grew up in any Boston suburb, Framingham to name one, you would probably remember this area from elementary school field trips to the Aquarium. On a nice day, running to end of Long Wharf and looking out onto the Boston Harbor is nice, and a good spot to feel like OK, I can turn around now. It reminds me of the scene in Forrest Gump, when Forest runs to the end of the pier and simply just turns around. And if you don’t mind the smell of Boston Harbor, then I would say make it to this area as often as you can.

3. Huntington Ave. Symphony – I like Huntington Ave between Mass Ave and Exeter or Dartmouth. This a good area to walk on a nice day, so running around here, you’ll know that a lot of people will get to see those cool running sneakers and your smooth strides. What I find is that most people will just be annoyed with you, because it is a busy area with the Prudential and Copley mall. I also consider this area a great place to change up my run from a route that I have become accustomed to. Huntington Ave. is just a few side streets away from either the South End or Back Bay. If you go as far as Dartmouth St, be careful making a move to a different street, because the traffic patterns can be confusing and cars won’t hesitate to honk loudly as you run by.

2. The Charles River – It is a bike/walk/run path so if you don’t like to run in cold weather, you’ll have to compete for space around the Charles with others. Therefore I think this rule applies, want to be seen—run in the summer. Want to own the path—run in the winter. I like to start in either of two locations on the south side of the river; by the esplanade or get off the bridge at Mass Ave. On a windy day I do not recommend running by the river, because the temperature can drop 5 to 10 degrees just by the river. I really made up that number, but it is tough to run with wind by the Charles. So why is the Charles River such a great place to run? The path is easy and a great change from a regular route on sidewalks. Stay on the path going east and there is a foot path across Storrow, which will bring you to Boston University. Sometimes it’s not all about being seen running, and I think it is really nice to run the river at night. The Hyatt reflects nicely off the river and on the Cambridge side, as well as on the bridges, there are good views of downtown. So I find that it is always worth the effort to make it to the Charles River.

1. Boylston St – Marathon Monday is the only day that you can go out running and thousands will be cheering you on as you finish a run. This run of course started 26 miles ago in Hopkinton, but definitely a cool place to be seen. A stretch of 385 yards, probably has never been more challenging to me, but something happened when I crossed the finish line. Regardless of the day you go out running, I think Boylston St is a great area to run. The sidewalks are wide enough that you won’t disturb walkers. It is also just under a mile, point-to-point, from Mass Ave. to Arlington. If you want to get off of Boylston St, avoid the temptation to run Newbury St because it is just a bad scene with all the shoppers. Therefore, continue to Comm. Ave. and run in the path that separates the two sides of the streets. But back to the marathon, Boylston is the Mecca for marathon runners. Therefore, some day take advantage of a holy pilgrimage from Hopkinton to Boston and get a space-age aluminum blanket to stay warm.

One final reminder; in these locations be ready to be seen so look sharp.

Mile_1/Day_175

How is today different from any other day? Well tonight I decided to put on a serious number of calories courtesy of bbq pizza and cheese pizza from The Upper Crust. Clearly no run or workout today, but I'll burn off most of those calories with a 9 mile run tomorrow night. I let myself indulge on pizza this evening, but it is back to healthy eating to get ready for my longest training run ever--22 miles Saturday morning.

Although I have gone through a lot of training and fundraising, I consider the official start of training and fundraising to be October 1, 2008. So far I have travelled 480.35 miles on the roads of Boston. I have also raised $3,723.20 to support cancer research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

26 days to go...

Runner's High

You don’t get high the first time, unless…scientifically speaking your body produces enough endorphins to flood your brain producing a sense of euphoria similar to any standard opiate. Endorphins enter the brain and attach to the limbic and prefrontal areas, which are known to activate emotions. You certainly don’t have to run a marathon to achieve this feeling, even shorter runs or strenuous runs can produce the same rush. But I believe that running long distances and going through intense training, increases the amounts of endorphins causing “runner’s high”.

Side affects? I don’t know, but I’m telling you it is true. It has been studied and proven, but I’ll give you my own account. When I tell you I just ran 18.5 miles and I said I enjoyed it, well I’m not giving you the full truth as there is a little more to the run aside from burning loads of calories. Personally, if the run was 18 miles, I’ll get high right around mile 12 and that feeling will most likely carry me through the next 6 miles, or until I hit the proverbial wall.

Suddenly I’ll feel like I’m floating, my strides are so aligned and perfect that it does not seem like I am putting in any work. Next thing I know the sound of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon drowns out the noise of my footsteps and cars driving by. During the day, if the sun is out and there are clear skies, I can see everything move by me very slowly and rhythmically. If I’m running at night I just tilt my head up slightly to gaze at the stars. There is no stress on my legs when I’m running high.

The high is indeed enjoyable, but to furthermore prove its existence, I have to admit that I am addicted. There is no 12 step program for running and certainly no rehab centers, so I have accepted that it is something I’ll have to live with. There are days that my body is calling for a run, especially if I haven’t produced a significant level of endorphins in a few days. There could be some factors that also contribute to the euphoria such as, adrenaline, caffeine, chocolate, and Gatorade. But at the end, coming down is tough. Good thing it is not a serious problem.

Does it come to any surprise that the Boston Marathon is on 4/20 this year?

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