Be Humble: A Lesson from a Run

I've crossed paths with him many times while out running. An older guy, running slowly but smoothly.  We've acknowledged each other with a wave.  Up until yesterday, we'd never spoken.

"How old are you? he asked as I came up beside him.

"63" I answered proudly as I moved past.  "How old are you?"

"74" he responded easily without breaking stride.

"Dam" I said to myself.  "He makes running look so easy".

As I moved ahead, I called out, "I want to be just like you".

Later that day as I reflected on that brief exchange, I got thinking...

I've been feeling pretty cocky since the kids gave me a Samsung Active 2 for my birthday.  Running 6:20 km's comfortably with the occasional 5:20/km speedy bursts.  I've become obsessed with running the last kilometer the fastest.  Once back home, I've stared at the run stats after they've synced with my phone.  I've even dreamt about running even faster times.  And yet, there was this guy running not much slower than the times I was celebrating...and he was 11 years older!

I felt humble! 

In running and in life it's so easy to get caught up competing with others. A bigger house, nicer car, larger TV, newer smartphone...you know, 'Keeping up with the Jones's'.  What a foolish game! No matter how good you are at your job, how blessed you are accumulating money, how good your health is, there is always someone somewhere better at your job, richer than you are, in better health!  

Be humble.  Accept what you have and leverage your strengths and abilities as far as you can take them! And through it all, remain humble!

Until next time...

Chris Morales

Decency Matters

When did decency stop mattering?  When did it become OK to treat others badly?  When did 'me, me, me' become the rallying cry?  

Decency stopped mattering when we chose to put ourselves first. Decency stopped mattering when we blatantly thought we were superior to someone else.  Decency stopped mattering when we chose to ignore it!

On my way to the office this morning the driver of a massive pickup truck urged me to move over!  She was obviously in a hurry. And to make her point, she attached her front bumper to the back of my car.  At least it felt that way...for almost 2 kilometers!  I need to point out that I was in the right lane of a two lane road already travelling above the posted speed limit.  Vehicles were ahead of me in both lanes.  My 'pull over' options were severely limited unless I jumped the curb!  High up in her jacked up pickup, she could clearly see the vehicles ahead over my much lower car.  Never mind, I was holding her up and she wanted to make sure I knew.  Decency died at 7:05 am.

Lined up 6 feet apart to checkout at the grocery store last Saturday, a man jumped the queue right in front of me because I was a second too long to advance in the line.  I held my tongue.  Even though I wanted to call him out!  Decency died at 11:35 am.

Decency dies every time we forget that we live in an interconnected society and forget that every individual action affects someone else...and in most cases, many other people.  I live in a condo apartment building and every time a person chooses not to wear a facemask inside, decency dies.

I'd like to bring decency back from the dead.  My plan is simply to be even more decent to everyone I meet and deal with.  My theory is that if  I'm decent to you, perhaps you will pay it forward.  I know it's not much and some days it feels like a loosing battle.  Those days are especially tough...I feel it's pointless.  But I'm a preserving guy and as long as I have a choice, I'll choose to be decent.

Until next time...

Chris Morales

 

Running through my mind this Father's Day

I've always tried not to think about anything while running.  Running for me has been as much mental as physical:  great workout physically and a great stress reliever mentally.  It's why I've rarely listened to music through headphones.  Plus I'm a little paranoid:  I want to hear the bad guys...or vehicles...approaching.  But I digress.

One of the things that ran through my mind this morning was Father's Day that we celebrated this past Sunday.  I was blessed with a great Dad.  Oh he was far from perfect ... I can still remember him yelling at me for now being able to find a hammer when I was 12!  And if I told you about the antics at the regular weekend beach picnics or house parties in Jamaica, you wouldn't believe me!  Over the course of his time with me he did manage to share some life lessons that I have tried hard to live to:

1. Never do business with someone unless you have met them first, shaken their hand and looked into their eyes.  This is even more important since the Internet where we hide behind Facebook and email.
2. Live life to the fullest and always with a smile.  He was an optimist rarely without a story or a smile.
3. Be honest in everything you do. You knew where you stood with him at all times...he was transparent.
4. Walk with a spring in your step.  He never dragged his feet.
5. Always keep moving.  I was very young when he shared this nugget so it did not relate to my running but it does apply to running.

I thought about Dad's advice as I ran this morning.  Particularly in context of being a father myself and still in the afterglow of spending Sunday afternoon with the Boys and Sally on Father's Day.

As I stumbled through life working and raising a family had I been able to impart as much simple wisdom? Had I let my life challenges get in the way of raising a family?  As my Grandmother would have asked, "Had I raised good kids?".  I think so...I hope so!  As I neared the end of my run I realized what I have tried to do as a Parent:  Impart on them the wisdom of my Father.  

Dad got to see me compete once.  It was a Triathalon event near Fergus.  In the jostling crowd before the start of the Swim I couldn't see him or Mum in the spectator crowd but just before I dashed into the water I heard him shout out in his distinctive voice, "Chris".  I had a great race that day!

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

Muffin Top...Love Handles...oh my!

This Muffin Top causes the
'other' Muffin Top

Well it happened.  Gravity seems to have won.  I knew it was inevitable but hoped it would wait until my 6th decade.  Nope, 55 it was to be. Muffin Top!

I've tried 'sucking in my stomach' to minimize/eliminate it.  Works for about 15 seconds.  

I've bought larger size pants with 'high rise' but that just means my waist has moved up to my lower rib cage...not an attractive look for a middle-age guy...and it would only get worse.

I've gone to bulky sweaters.  That works well in the winter but not so cool in the summer.  Especially now that the hot, humid weather and temperatures have arrived with a vengeance in Toronto.

Am I finally past the stage of running tights?  Running shorts:  that option is even less attractive!  Unless I run at 3 am in the morning under cover of the dark, the Fashion Police will haul me in for sure.

Maybe I finally have to embrace weight training.  Yuck!

Dare I say ask the question, "Is my Muffin Top here to stay?"  Say it ain't so!!  I'm not ready to give up just yet.  I have 5 months until bathing suit weather in Negril at Reggae Marathon.  "Gravity...and age...you haven't won just yet!

So here's the plan: eliminate the salty snacks and junk food (including diet pop), smaller portion sizes, reduce alcohol, keep running.  

Muffin Top of the real Muffin courtesy of Wikipedia:  Edible Muffin.  Mmmmm....

Until next time...

ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013.  My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31.  My planned races in 2013 include:

1. The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
2. The Reggae Marathon, December 7.  

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

Sunday morning and my thoughts are on running

Stylin recently in
Usain Bolt Pumas

It's Sunday morning June 2, 2013.  I was up early this morning...what's new.  This morning was special for a couple of reasons.  First, I didn't go for a run.  I decided to do my version of strength and ab training instead (pushups and situps).  Second, it's my 6th Wedding Anniversary to my lovely wife, Sally. I know 6 years doesn't have a super special gift item (Whew!) but this one just seems so very special. So here I am sitting on the deck, rain gently falling, listing to Jazz streaming from my Tablet and tapping out this blog post and thinking about life...and running of course:

• Sally sat in the hot, humid, muddy field at Long Bay Beach Park in December 2009 when I took on and conquered my first full marathon at Reggae Marathon.  I had given her a target time of just over 4 hours.  Wow, did I ever blow that!  I crossed the finish line in 5 hours and 25 minutes.  For over an hour while I was battling the heat and my own mental demons, I also thought about her sitting their worrying!  The tears I shed at the finish were for lots of reasons that day not the least being for her support!
• Sally puts up with stinky running gear!  There I said it! I sweat.  A lot.  It's common for me to loose 5 lbs of body weight on a normal run. We live in an apartment.  It's a good size but... where do we put the stinky running gear.  Again, a saint.
• Sally put up with 3 years of my foot injuries.  Mostly caused by me of course not respecting my age and trying too many new things too fast.  The break from running last September when I broke the bones in my right foot was a much needed break (Whew...I think I ran that word into the ground).  It gave me time to re-calibrate.  

So I'm back running comfortably.  I do track workouts once a week to improve my speed.  I run varied loops around home most early mornings. And I mix it up with some strength training.  Wow!  Can this really be me?  Who is this new RunninGuy?

Until next time...

ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013.  My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31.  My other planned races in 2013 include:

1. The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
2. The Reggae Marathon, December 7.  

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

What do you think about when you run?

Running for me is therapy.  As much as running keeps my weight in check and my blood pressure normal, I live for those times when my mind goes totally free.  Those days and experiences keep me running even when my spirit is weak.

Having said that, I've also found that while running while my mind is free, lots of things cross my mind.  It's a cliche I know but I do solve all my problems while running.  Sometimes I think about work-related challenges, other times it's family.  Always it's a personal conversation in my head with no critics or judge.

So what do I think about while running?  Here are some of the recurring topics:

1. What the hell am I doing with my life?  I've just hit the double nickle, 55 and while running recently this has been a recurring theme: What I've done so far and what else I can do.  Other than the odd 'Mistake' earlier in my life, I have generally been blessed with a fantastic life.  Yes there have been setbacks but I've enjoyed great kids, fabulous wife, supportive family and friends.  But what's next...
2. Will this be the day I no longer run?  Over the past 3 years I've had some running injuries that for the first time in my 30 years of running have seriously threatened my ability to keep running.  I like cycling, am a strong swimmer but I hate the thought of not running.
3. Do I look like a runner?  True confession:  I cannot pass a window or glass store-front and not sneak a look at my form.  Most times I am disappointed...it looks like I'm shuffling not running.  The feeling passes quickly though...I am running!
4. What's my next pair of running shoes?  I am immediately disenchanted with my running shoes after my first run in a new pair.  Talk about short-term love!  I've had more success with the Puma Faas 500's that I ran in for a couple of years but generally I am always looking at new running shoes.  Sally hates it that I can't pass a store selling running shoes without stopping in.  Wait...make that any store selling shoes!
5. If I stop during a run was it a good run?  Traffic lights and stop lights don't count.  Most times because I'm running so early in the morning when traffic is light I don't stop.  Shhh...don't tell anyone.

That's it, that's all.  Truthfully though, I'm never sure what will pop into my mind when I head out for a run.  That's why I run.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013.  My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31.  My planned races in 2013 include:

1. The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
2. The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
3. The Reggae Marathon, December 7.  

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

My Top 10 Life Lessons Learned from Running

I love reading lists.  Especially the ones I create. :)

Like just about everyone I know, reading the 'Top 10' or 'Top 7' lists is appealing.  Since last September when I injured my foot and I've been walking not running, I've had some time to think about the things I've learned about life from running.  In this case, not running.  Enjoy:


#10.  Life is life!  What I'm doing today is important.  I'm not practicing for the future. Today is all I have.  I've got to live it completely and thoroughly.

#9.  Sometime it rains.  And I am going to get wet.  So what?  Clothes and skin dries so I might as well get out there and enjoy it.  It will be sunny again.

#8.  You will loose your way.  Unlike Sisyphus who did the same thing over and over again, I hate repeating myself.  I've learned that I never learn anything new without trying something new.  And sometimes I get lost...dammed if I don't experience some fun things though.

#7.  People will help you...if you ask.  If you have some idea of where you want to go, stop and ask for help in getting there.  Good people are eager to help.

#6.  Breathe.  As a runner that's why I'm outside in the first place:  to get a breath of fresh air.

#5.  'ABL'...'Always Be Learning'.  Ask a lot of questions especially when I don't know the answer.  I've found that until I fully understand something I don't sleep well at night.

#4.  Get up early!  Forget the 'early bird gets the worm...I hate worms...and fishing.  I get up early to get a head start on the day...and on life.

#3.  Listen.  Then listen some more.  I find it easy to give unsolicited advice.  Especially when I've made up my mind before I've heard the entire situation.  Life is so much better when I take the time to listen completely (I wouldn't have endured this silly foot injury if I'd truly listened to my body).

#2.  Give Thanks Every Day!  If you go to church each week that's great.  Spend a few minutes every day giving thanks that you woke up!

#1.  Go Running!  I'm a runner.  Have been for over 30 years.  If you don't run, go for a walk, a bike ride or a swim.  It doesn't matter, just get out there.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++++++

I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013.  My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31.  My planned races in 2013 include:

1. The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
2. The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
3. The Reggae Marathon, December 7.  

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.

Happy New Year from ThatRunninGuy!

2012 was one heck of a tumultuous year for me.  And not a lot of pleasurable running though not for a lack of trying.  But it's January 1, 2013 today, the start of a new year so all things are possible.

For me, the trials of 2012 opened up new opportunities.  First there was the job loss in March.  Not much of a surprise actually but still a shock to the system.  I didn't spend much time crying over the spilt milk.

Then in May in what was supposed to be a triumphant sprint across the finish line in the Goodlife Toronto 1/2 Marathon in a sub-2 hour time, I ended up hobbling for much of the second half of the race with a pulled muscle in my right calf.  Two upsides:  first, I still managed a Personal Best of 2 hours 4 minutes in the race.  And second, I had my first podium finish in the Reggae Runners Half Marathon Challenge.  Yes I came in 3rd in a 3 man race but it's still on the podium!

September started out a good month but quickly turned sour when I fractured 3 bones in my right foot.  Self inflicted unfortunately when I tried to replicate a sprint workout on pavement.  I learned the hard lesson (no pun intended) that concrete is waaaaaay harder than the dirt track I had been working out on.  I was out of the Scotiabank Half Marathon in October and it was touch and go for the Reggae Marathon in December.  With walking cast securely in place I did manage to finish the Reggae Marathon 10K walking the entire way.  The upside of not running was that I got to do something I don't normally get to do when I'm running:  take pictures!  And I shot a few! This young man was a volunteer at the Aid Station at Mile 4.  He had his 'AutoBoxCar' booming Reggae LOUD while he handed out water and Hy-Lite in the cool plastic pouches.  This is what makes Reggae Marathon really special. Check this link for more photos from my Reggae Marathon 2012 Walkabout.

Through all the ups and downs Sally and all the boys have been with me every step of the way.  Always loving and supporting even though they sometimes scratch their heads in confusion when they hear some of the nutty things that come out of my mouth on occasion.  Thank you all!

And now here we are at the start of the new year, 2013.  Just one resolution for this upcoming year:  enjoy the moment!  I can't change the past nor predict the future.  This year I plan to appreciate the now!

Until next time
ThatRunninGuy

Reggae Marathon 2012 Walkabout, Part 2

Elvis has left the building and is now living comfortably in Negril.  He chows down on Jerk Pork and Jerk Chicken and washes it all down with cold Red Stripe.

OK, I made that all up but the Elvis sign on the side of the road as we approached a Reggae Marathon Aid Station at the 4 mile mark caught my eye.  Man I had too much time on my hands walking the Reggae Marathon 10K.

Reggae Marathon is one of the few (only) race events that have Aid Stations at every mile.  Did I mention that they also have unique Jamaican Character?

Notice in the background the car with the speakers on top.  The car belonged to this young volunteer.  He was waving the flag, handing out water and Hi-Lyte and playing LOUD Reggae music.  And I do mean LOUD!  And this was just after 6 am in the morning.

Each Aid Station on the entire course is set up the same way.







I caught this shot of Reggae Marathon 4 time winner Rupert Green on his way to another victory.  I was lying down on the road shooting when I caught the attention of a race volunteer who wanted to know if I was all right.  It took a couple of minutes to assure her that I was...even my media badge didn't convince her.  Maybe it was the cast on my foot.  She watched me hobble away and I'm convinced she was only moments away from calling for help.

I did say there was music along the Reggae Marathon Course right?  Well here right along the route near the finish line at Long Bay Beach Park was the Silverbird Steel Band Orchestra performing.  This band performs every year at the Reggae Marathon Pasta Party Friday night and they put on a great show again this past December.  Here they are at around 6:30 am bringing us home...well, at least those of us doing the 10K.


It's been 4 consecutive years attending Reggae Marathon in Negril.  I've run the full marathon, the half marathon and the 10 K (twice).  It's a long way to go to get to Negril each December but once there it's truly a magical experience.  See you again December 7, 2013...

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

Reggae Marathon 2012 Walkabout, Part 1

The Boot 

The Boot loved the beach in Negril last week. It didn't need sunscreen at all, didn't offer any conversation and was a cheap date at the bar and restaurant.  The Boot enjoyed itself so much that it didn't want to come home. I think it was looking for a hookup on the beach.

I was sorely tempted to let The Boot stay behind and enjoy itself in Jamaica.  My foot had recovered...The Boot had done its's job. but then I remembered how much I paid for it!  Welcome home!

Reggae Marathon Media Briefing

For some reason the Reggae Marathon organizers ask me to speak at the media briefing every year.  After blogging here and on the Reggae Marathon blog for the past two years, I'm never sure what else I can add about running and Reggae Marathon.  Especially when the audience are 'The Media'.  But there I was last Friday night during the Reggae Marathon Media Briefing sharing the social media experiences over the past year.  And there were some significant ones:

• Reggae Marathon basically 'doubled up' on all social media channels over the past year:  Facebook, Twitter and of course the Reggae Marathon blog
• The Reggae Marathon experience at the Boston Marathon Race Expo was HUGE:  Usain Bolt re-tweeted a blog post!  Massive response!
• The Olympic games in London.  Between the Usain Bolt story, PumaYard (Puma in London) and Reggae Marathon Race Director, Frano, fans enjoyed themselves online.  Olympic withdrawal for sure in 2013!

Court, Chris, Andrew, Dan.  Reggae Marathon 2012

All we were missing was Holden at Reggae Marathon 2012!  Holden says he doesn't run but he has a year to train!

Here are the boys at 4:45 am at Long Bay Beach Park in Negril with our friend, Dan Cumming (of Running in the Zone fame).  Dan and I sure that the only time Court and Andrew see 4:45 am is when coming home from a late night of weekend partying.  Dan, Court and Andrew burned up the Reggae Marathon 1/2 Marathon course.  I think we'll all be back for 2013??

Negril River at Sunrise

The big advantage of walking the Reggae Marathon 10K was that I got to take pictures while an the course.  So I did!

This picture was taken at 6 am.  It's of the Negril River just after passing the round-a-bout in Negril at around the 3 mile mark of the course I stopped on the bridge to shoot a Negril sunrise photo.  I've got lots of pictures of the sunsets in Negril...who doesn't...but this is my first sunrise picture.  Hmmm...looks like a selection on my Facebook page in the near future.


More stories and photos to come from my 2012 Reggae Marathon Walkabout experience.

Until next time
ThatRunninGuy

Reggae Marathon 2012: Got 'er dun!

Borrowing a phrase from the Summer Olympics, 'Go haad an dun", I 'got 'er dun' last Saturday at Reggae Marathon.  After worrying about making it through the entire 10K with the walking cast on my right foot, my only worry turned out to be not stopping every few meters to shoot a few pictures.  Usually I'm intent on finishing with a target time but this year I had no such concerns since I was walking.  The goal was to finish...couldn't let the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario down.  Plus, I wanted the 4th in a row Reggae Marathon Finisher's Medal.

At Reggae Marathon again this year Mother Nature continued her string of good weather.  In fact, Saturday morning last week dawned quite cool with no humidity.  'Cool' of course in Negril, Jamaica is a relative thing but it sure was a major relief after my first time at Reggae Marathon 2009 when overnight rain resulted in a higher degree of humidity.  The only humidity this year was the mandatory drenching in the Caribbean after successfully completing the run.


The Puma Faas 300's were retired last Saturday as well.  Yes, these were the shoes that were there for the foot injury.  I figured it was only fitting that they they be there for the successful completing of Reggae Marathon 2012.  Of course we had to enjoy a complimentary Red Stripe before 'retirement'.  If you have to ask, "Red Stripe taste good" after Reggae Marathon.

It's been 2 1/2 months since my last run and you know what...it's been good!  30 years is a long time to run every day and be relatively injury free.  I am very fortunate.  These last two years of foot problems culminating in the stress fractures came at the right time.  I'll be back to running of course but it will be very different.  Competing with my younger self is now a thing of the past...I have a few more grey hairs after all!  It won't be for a few more weeks...I really do want to ensure that my foot has healed fully before I head out for my first post-injury run.  But you know what...I'm looking forward to it!

'Got 'er dun!'

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

I'm on the Rock for Reggae Marathon!

The American Airlines flight touches down at 3:40 pm on Wednesday in Montego Bay.  On time and on schedule I hope depositing me back on the Rock for my 4th straight Reggae Marathon event.

While they've all been special, this year has an extra special twist.  I'm 'running' (walking fast actually) in the Reggae Marathon 10K event with a walking cast on my right foot.  I'm really not sure how I'll make out this Saturday morning but I promise I'll cross the finish line.  I made a commitment earlier this year to raise $2,000 for the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario and I never let the side down.

And it's 'super personal' this year! My cousin's husband had a heart procedure completed successfully recently to replace a heart valve that had stopped working.  It was congenital and he'd been living with less and less oxygen intake for the past few years.  Sally and I have had multiple family members felled by heart disease and stroke so it was great to see my cousin come through successfully.  This Reggae Marathon is for you this year Andy.

I still need a few dollars to make it to this year's fund raising goal.  Please donate here securely:  Run for Heart 2012 Donation.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++

Follow me on Facebook at Run for Heart.  Race for 2012: Reggae Marathon, December 1.

NOT Running...the best thing for my health?

Running Shoes for Reggae Marathon
December 1

Walking Cast!

Yikes!

@#!!@#%%@ And a whole lot of other unprintable words come to mind when I think back on the 'incident' this past September.  It's sidelined me from running.  It may have been a lifesaver.

Progress report.  I've had the walking cast on since September 26.  Optimistically the lovely Doctor said "6 weeks then you can take it off...take it slow with running a couple of weeks after that though".

Oops...not so fast.  I'm now 8 weeks into living (walking) with the foot cast and still don't feel comfortable enough yet to take it off for long stretches.  I've been told that broken bones heal even stronger.  Still waiting for them to heal first.

Not running has been a blessing in disguise though.  Truth be told, I'd become a little obsessed with my daily running.  Not resting was definitely a contributing cause to the bone fractures.  And becoming so obsessed with faster times that led to the extreme speed workouts finished me off.  I'll be back running but I'm scared as hell of that first run.  And that is very likely not going to be until well after the Reggae Marathon.

I not really complain.  This is the first 'major' health issue I have ever faced.  I know, I know...I still have my Appendix, Tonsils and all other internal organs. Blood pressure under control.  No heart problems.  I have never had an overnight stay in the hospital!

Day surgery once but that was elective.  Ever heard of the 'Big V'?

So I guess all that running over the past 30 years has paid off.  But am I ever looking forward to that first run.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++

Follow me on Facebook at Run for Heart.  Race for 2012: Reggae Marathon, December 1.

My Reggae Marathon Running Shoes?

I do love my Pumas and with the healing going much more slowly than anticipated, 'running' the 10K at Reggae Marathon in a couple of weeks on December 1 in Negril with a Puma Boot on my left foot and foot cast on my right is looking like a real possibility.

It wasn't supposed to be like this.  I had a time goal in mind for this year's Reggae Marathon 10K:  50 minutes.  I wanted to improve over last year's time and had my training planned throughout the summer.

And it was going well up until the nasty bone fractures back in September.  Dam that concrete!

How did I get these Puma boots?  It began as all good things do...with Sally.  She wanted a pair of Pumas so we headed out to the Puma Outlet Store at the Cookstown Mall north of Toronto.  Of course, this was a near heaven experience for me:  Puma shoes...on sale!

Sally found her shoes and I found these Puma boots.  Perfect for the sloppy daily winter commute ahead in Toronto. Likely not so good for Reggae Marathon.  I'll make for a heck of a sight when we line up for Reggae Marathon in a couple of weeks:  Running tights, Puma winter boot, foot cast!  Great photo op though.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

++++++

Follow me on Facebook at Run for Heart.  Race for 2012: Reggae Marathon, December 1.

Full price for my Reggae Marathon bathing suit!

I left it too late and paid full price.  But it's a nice bathing suit don't you think?

Since spring of this year Sally has been 'gently reminding me' to buy a new bathing suit.  The last pair I picked up at an end-of-season sale a couple of years ago and it was dead.  Sally demanded they be 'donated to garbage' and they were!  I procrastinated.  That's waaaay better than admitting that I ignored her.

She went out of her way to shop on my behalf telling me repeatedly throughout the summer of the stores that had large selections of bathing suits on sale.  Still put it off.  I was convinced I would still be able to have my choice and get a deal.

Then last week she came home with the great news that Wal Mart still had bathing suits...for $9!  Ah, ha...that's my price!  Off we went.  Oh yes, I dragged her (asked her nicely) along to come shopping with me for what was surely to be a quick in-and-out to pick up a couple of pairs and still have change from a $20.

Alas it was not to be.  They had limited selection first of all...what's with XXXL sizes?  Oh I forgot who their target customer is!  Then there was the fit.  Or lack thereof.  I tried on the first pair and even though I am not a fashionista, even I couldn't believe how badly they fit. So foot cast back on and off to Mark's Wear House.

Why I thought Mark's Wearhouse would have bathing suits is beyond me.  Sally was thankfully noticeably quiet and indulged my fantasy.  It was indeed a quick in-and-out once I noted all the winter inventory.

In exasperation we headed to the Sport Mart.  Surely they would have bathing suits.

And they did.  A grand total of 10 men's bathing suits hiding on a single end rack at the back of the store.  Brand names though and my size.

Once more into the fitting room, removed my foot cast and tried a couple of pairs on all the while desperately looking for the sale sticker.  It was not to be.

So with a nod to Sally for putting up with my silliness, I hastily paid for the new Reggae Marathon bathing suit and exited the store.  "$56...will that be cash, credit or debit" asked the perky clerk.  "Full price" I muttered to myself.  But hey, I'll look great on the beach in Negril at Reggae Marathon!

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

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Follow me on Facebook at Run for Heart.  Race for 2012: Reggae Marathon, December 1.

Running topless again

Courtesy of Runner's World

I ran topless at Reggae Marathon in 2011.  Nervous at first but in the pitch black of the pre-dawn after the 5:15 am start it seemed safe enough.  And it was cool.  I mean refreshing.

Since my foot injury in September I've been swimming and running in the local pool. Topless of course.  This time no staring or shout-outs...unless the admiring glances from the 'older ladies' means anything.  Not that I notice of course...it's 6 am, I'm barely awake and it's all business.

Running in the pool seems easier than running on land at first blush.  For sure it is certainly easier on the knees and feet than pounding the pavement.  But after the last few weeks I can tell you that running in the pool is hard work!  And you don't know you're sweating!

My general workout goes like this:

• 100 metres of swimming to warm up
• 30 - 40 minutes of 'running' in the deep end
• 100 metres swimming to cool down

For the running I've used a boogie board to give me some buoyancy.  I tried a flotation belt last week and was able to simulate the full running-on-land motion.  I think I'll continue with the flotation belt...it's better for simulating the full running form.  The biggest challenge though is boredom. It's tough not to watch the clock ... time seems to go oh so slowly when I'm basically treading water for 40 minutes.  

If like me you're a die-hard runner recovering from injury (or if you just want a total body workout), I'd recommend pool running.  Here are a couple of good sites to check out:

• Good article from Runner's World on how to run in the pool properly:  Six Ways to Make Pool Running Fun
• And here is Reggae Marathoner and Olympian Carrie Tollefson's video on Pool Running:  Carrie's Pool Workout

I can't promise I'll run topless at Reggae Marathon again this December.  But to paraphrase a phrase from my Reggae Marathon friend, Bob Moore, "Once you go, you know".  And you just never know what will happen the morning of December 1 in Negril.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

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Follow me on Facebook at Run for Heart.  Race for 2012: Reggae Marathon, December 1.

Paint Attack Paintball Fund Raiser a Fabulous Success

"Before" ... All Smiles!

The rain held off until the last paintball game.  Even that wasn't enough to stop the group of 10 paintballers who came out to Wasaga Beach Paintball last Saturday for the 4th Annual Paint Attack fund raising event for Run for Heart.

As you may know, Run for Heart is the name Sally and I came up with for our annual fund raising efforts for the Heart & Stroke Foundation.  We've lost Mother, Father and Brother to strokes and heart disease and it's our way of giving back.  Over the past 3 years we've raised $10,000.  Thank you so very much for your support.  For 2012, our goal is $2,000 and with the efforts of the 10 warriors who came out last Saturday we raised $800.  We are blessed with so much sincere support! (Donations accepted here:  Run for Heart)

Just call me 'Chester' 

Hitting the $2,000 goal in 2012 will be a little more challenging since I've been laid up with the broken bones in my right foot (Is this the day I no longer run?) Four weeks in the foot cast so far with a couple to go...I missed the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon in October which was one of my key fund raising events.  I've been swimming and running in the local pool to stay in shape and hope to be back running by mid-November.  That's only 2 weeks before Reggae Marathon but I'm determined to finish the Reggae Marathon 10K to get to the $2,000 goal.

Back to the paintball.  Unfortunately I wasn't able to head out to the playing fields last Saturday with the Paint Attack Group.  They didn't get to 'light me up' as they've delightfully done in the past. I thought about it though but common sense (and Sally) kept me from doing further damage to my foot.  As the chef for the day, I cooked up a storm:  burgers and sausages for the 10 warriors who included Andrew, Court, Holden, Carleigh, Amy, Nicole, Mark, Michael, Cuarai and Steve.

"After" ... bravely smiling to mask the pain

In this after photo, I can tell you that a few of the smiles were forced.  After 4 hours of playing paintball in the 70 acres of rugged playing fields at Wasaga Beach Paintball they were...a wee bit tired.  And soaked.  A torrential downpour swept in for their last game. Hot chocolate would have been appropriate...next year.

At the end of the day, great fun had by all in this 4th Annual Paint Attack.  And already enthusiasm for 2013 has already.  Now if only I can stay healthy.

If you'd like to make a secure credit card donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, go to this link:  Run for Heart.  Thank you in advance for your support and donation.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy AKA "Chester"

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Follow me on Facebook at Run for Heart.  

Race for 2012: Reggae Marathon, December 1

Hmmm...maybe this foot cast isn't so bad after all

The TTC...my daily ride

A little old lady offered me her seat on the subway last week.  Then a younger man did the same yesterday.  Wow...people really are nice in Toronto. Thanks for the offer.  But it got me thinking...what if I keep the walking cast on my foot for my daily commute after the injury heals?

What?  Did I just say that out loud?

I'm on the subway and bus each day for a total of about 60 minutes each day.  Yes it's crowded, we are usually packed in like sardines and some days the A/C doesn't work (never have to worry about it being too hot even in the winter!).  For a daily commute in the Greater Toronto Area, it's pretty good and even though I still love driving, the TTC is the best way to get to and from work.

But most day's I'd kill for a seat.  And not just any seat...an aisle seat is premium.  And no middle seats.  Those were not meant for normal size humans so it is never possible to be comfortable squashed on both sides by other commuters.

I'm of two minds.  I'm flattered by the politeness of those offering their seats to someone with a foot injury.  I'm pissed off that they see me as an infirm 'older guy' with a foot injury.  So far I've declined the offers.

But ... I'll be out of the cast by the end of October (I hope) but if I strap the foot cast back on, I wonder if I can get an upgrade when I fly down to Montego Bay for Reggae Marathon this year?

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy AKA "Chester"

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Follow me on Facebook at Run for Heart.  Race for 2012: Reggae Marathon, December 1.

Broken bones mend eventually

The X Ray was very difficult to look at.  Two of them actually.  You see, he had broken both legs clean through mid-way down the femurs in a toboggan accident.  That was over 18 years ago and it happened to Andrew.

I can still remember the evening.  On my way home from work, told that Andrew was in emergency with broken bones. Dam...we were 2 weeks away from a planned vacation.  Maybe we could get him in a cast and on the plane.

It was not to be.

I got to the hospital and rushed to the emergency ward.  Things were eerily quiet around Andrew but he was scared.  I'll never forget that face.  There he was in bed with both legs inverted.  He was in pain but he was gritting his teeth.

The doctor took us to the X Ray screen and showed us the results:  both legs broken clean through.  What? He would have to spend 6 weeks in traction with his legs inverted then a further 6 weeks in full leg casts.  How?

He was admitted later that evening and his brother's came to visit.  They were scared as hell.  I know each had his private feelings but Court, his twin brother was really affected.  And you know brothers...love/hate on the best day.  This was not one of the best days.  When time came to leave the hospital for the evening they did not want to leave.  I believe some gentle force was required.

I did not leave.  I spent that first night with Andrew in the room with him not sleeping on the only chair in the room.  The pain of seeing him in pain was unbearable.  "Please God, break my legs and fix his...anything to take his pain away".  It was a long night.

Questions, questions:  would he ever walk again?  Play baseball, the game he loved.  Oh, and let's not forget school...

I am reminded of all this as I deal with the bone fractures I suffered recently (Is this the day I no longer run).  Nowhere near as severe as Andrew suffered those years ago.  What keeps me going is knowing that bones do knit, injuries do mend and the memory fades away.  I keep that top-of-mind.

Andrew's bones did mend.  Even stronger than ever.  He went on to play rep baseball throughout grade school, high school and into university where he and his twin brother Court won the Provincial Championship while at Western.  Additionally he led the Iona Football team for 4 years as the starting Quarterback.  The highlight for me was watching Andrew, Court and Holden all playing high school football together.

Oh and school...his teachers and friends rallied around and made sure he kept up with his work and not spend his days idly watching television.  He graduated last year from DeGroote with an MBA.

Those 6 weeks in the hospital were tough.  We visited him every evening.  We've been tight ever since.

Broken bones do mend.

Until next time..
ThatRunninGuy

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Follow me on Facebook at Run for Heart.  Race for 2012: Reggae Marathon, December 1.