Rob "Buckeye" Powell

Week 2

2012-01-18T13:46:00.000-08:00

1/8

Sunday: Off.
Monday: 3 Weights
Tuesday: 4 with two miles at 7:30 pace. Little motivation at the Y. Weights
Wednesday: 4 Weights
Thursday: Off
Friday: 4 Miles
Saturday: Off

Crappy week of running what can a guy say! LOL ;-)

This week has not been that great either but away I go! Started to finalize my work out room. I had been stalling for some time to get it done to see for sure what to do with it. Well, I decided this Saturday night what to do. I painted a closet in it yesterday evening and just came back with the final materials a few min ago. Not much running but that will happen. It will be done now. Treadmill, weights, TV and an OSU Room it will be then. Time to go to the Y

Still here

2012-01-12T15:37:00.000-08:00

Week in review

Going Sunday to Saturday to keep better track of my miles.

1/1/2012

Sunday: Off
Monday: 4 miles
Tuesday: Dreadmill intervals 1 mile warm up 800 @ 730,
1/4 easy, 800 @ 704, 1/4, 800 @ 6:30, 1/4, 800, 630.
Wednesday: Off
Thursday: Off
Friday: 3 Miles including 1 mile warm up and then 1 mile fast. The mile fast was a 7:12. I was pretty happy with that.
Saturday: 13 miles with friends at Mohican averaged a 12:33 per mile pace.

Thoughts for the week: Still not great but the dumb ass attack of pushing that mile Friday made my legs so heavy on Saturday and I had to push to get moving! Ugh We ran a tough section of Mohican with over 1,400 of elevation climb on it.

Obtained a comped entry for Green Jewel 50k in March. I wont be as fast as I was when I ran it last, but it sets a goal race for me to be ready to run. This gives me 9 races for the year and 4 states.

This week preview: I have been going to the Y in the morning by 5 am and then in the evening. In fact, it is time to go again. The weights have been good, my body is sore and not sure I will do too much tonight but run. Wait till you hear about my biggest looser contest that started at work on Wednesday. Man I am hungry. 6 weeks of this. sheessh. LOL Looks like 30 miles on Saturday and marking trail for Run for Regis.

The snow falls

2012-01-02T07:12:00.000-08:00

Week in review

Monday: 12 miles
Tuesday: Off
Wednesday: 4
Thursday: Dreadmill intervals 1 mile warm up 800 @ 730, 1/4 easy, 800 @ 704, 1/4, 800 @ 6:30, 1/4, 800, 630.
Friday: off
Saturday: 18.5 miles with FTPR training run.
Sunday: took the day off but used my comped entry.

Eventbrite - Fools 50k & 25k Trail Run
Registered for Fools 50k & 25k Trail Run at Eventbrite!
Location:Peninsula, OH
Time:Sunday, April 1, 2012 Remember registration open on January 3 at 12:00 p.m. ET

Well, now it is time to just chill and watch the buckeye and the snow today. Weights X2 start tomorrow.

Weak week

2011-12-22T14:37:00.001-08:00

Running went well this week. The weekend started off well with a 17.1 mile run on Friday in Mohican. Finished some measurement on the trails for a race! Then I had my birthday and well...

I woke up Sunday and decided I needed a change. So I went for it! :-) Well... it did not go as I had hoped. My fast mile was slower than I had hoped but faster than in the past. I will just have to keep going with what I guess is best and the change will come in time. I am ready to accept it.

The miles in Mohican Friday I putt a fast pace hill walks and steady runs along the paths. I look forward to getting faster and faster as I have been. I hope that come spring I will have a pretty good gait and pace to run solid.

Little recovering this week with just a few slow low miles as I plan to run Christmas after I watch Molly open her Christmas presents. I will run Saturday in Lexington Ky as I leave Friday. We will see what the next week brings and wrap it up with a FTPR training run on the 31st.

Merry Christmas. Hope your dreams come true...

Well... I'll be....

2011-12-13T16:51:00.000-08:00

Monday Off
Tuesday 6 miles
Wednesday 4 miles
Thursday Off
Friday 5 miles
Saturday 14 miles
Sunday 10 Miles
39 miles

Decent week made the 10% increase but ready for phase two of training. Was out of town most of last week and did not get to do weights and swim laps. The little bit of conditioning getting ready for this next phase has been good. Keeping from getting myself hurt most importantly letting the miles drop some weight for me. This week I am paying attention to what I am eating but not really ready to cut back everything just yet.

This week so far has gone well. I had a nice Tempo run yesterday and today intervals. Day one. Ugh 6 miles with 4X800 at 7:30 and two incline 400 at 7:30 with a lap walk after each and 1 mile warm up and cool down after.

Looks like I have found a 50 miler to do in New York in October with a friend. Can Lake 50 miler.

Week in review

2011-12-05T13:10:00.000-08:00

Monday 2 miles morning swim 1/2 miles and off
Tuesday 2 miles morning weights
Wednesday 8 miles
Thursday Off
Friday 2 miles
Saturday 11 miles
Sunday 10 Miles
35 miles:

Slowly building the miles with longer back to back runs. Next week is a step down and then the following weekend I will do a long run. Looking at doing a Fat Ass Possibly hard to tell. Weight is down a few more lbs so that is cool. Forgot about gun season this week so there was no Mohican runs.

I have been trying some new diet foods and even did some vegan foods! I had a vegan burger this weekend. I hope it is one of many days like those to come! Looks like as of today there are definitely a few additional changes I am going to implement that did not think I was ever going to again. Keep on getting those miles in and try some new stuff to see how the next 26 weeks go.

Miles are Building

2011-12-01T13:37:00.000-08:00

With Mohican 100 Mile training in place I have been doing most of my running on my own. It has been good getting base miles up while just enjoying many of the evenings at Mohican and Malabar. Now it is time to enter the next phase of the training as I enter into week four of the training plan.

The mornings have consisted of runs 2 to 4 miles around my neighborhood. I am not a fan of morning runs but I have figured with the length of day light I get to enjoy dark most of the time anyways. The weekend runs have been fun and I will be running 31 miles this weekend at Mohican finalizing some course measurement for my race and implementing some changes.

I have signed up for 50's for your Momma, Mohican 100, Leadville 100 and just this week picked up two additional races. This will be two back to back marathons the first in Oregon the second in Washington.

The San Juan Island Marathon June 3rd looks to be a blast and will be Don Baun's last Marathon as he finishes his quest to run 50 states. The Timberline Marathon June 2nd. Plane tickets have been purchased and plans in place.

Running running runing forward!

Keep those feet moving forward

2011-11-05T06:13:00.000-07:00

I woke this morning and getting rid of my running blog and starting new was not going to be something I wanted to do after all. I have some cool and great times on here! So what is next? Here comes 2012

So, 2012 running year is my focus. So far I have been doing maintenance runs and lost some weight which is always good! :-)

I have signed up for my 2012 races and they are as follows:

Race Directors race: April 50k
50's for your Mamma: May 50 miler
2 Marathons: one in Oregon and one in Washington in June first week back to back with Don Baun as he closes his 50 states.
Mohican 100: June 100 miler
Leadville 100: August 100 miler

I am taking a month off work starting in August and I will be off till into September. I have some hotels booked and am working on the time line. I lan to have Molly come out and travel with me some during this time period.

I have not had much luck in the 100 miler divison. I am still working on some of those reasons. We will see. Leadville is a bucket list so I figured not getting younger.

Starting this week, I go into training mode gradually bringing my miles up. I will post weekly numbers and updates.

I hope everyone is training well and look forward to seeing you on the trails.

Past reflection Ugh! See you on the trails!

2011-08-18T16:41:00.000-07:00

This blog has great political importance! LOL Pardon me while I close this out.

I was so happy to think the other day how many wonderful people I have met since January 3rd 2006. January 3rd 2006 was the day that I started running. This after having a few beers with Don Baun one evening and him talking me into a run... well a marathon.

Through that first year I went from a marathon to a 100 mile race. Wow! Loved it! Since then... I have had so many life changes. From every day all American guy to a fat, blubbering gut, bald, sweat like a pig worthless son of a bitch. Yup! I have spent too much time at the aid station!

You know I realized that life is not fair sometimes and you cant get things how you want it or control your destiny.. it just happens. So my Mother took time to remind me how my life has gone since June 2009. back surgery with nerve damage that will not go away, blood clots in left leg and both lungs, blah blah blah.

So I could sit here looking at my 100 mile career and classify it as a failure. The truth be told I have only finished 3 of my 8 100 mile attempts. Wow! 3 of 8. 38% success rate! That does suck and makes me a cant finish a 100 miler type guy? Or does it?

They say in the respectful Ultra Running World that once a 100 miler always a 100 miler. I even finished one of them in 2010. 100 miles 10 months after back surgery and 8 months after blood clots! Wow! You know, I realized that there just is no body else out there in the ultra running community who has done that!

So I thought! I have spent too much time at the aid station and it is time to get moving! After coming back from Leadville this past week where I took Michelle out for her birthday and a wedding of my buddy. I thought how much I have over complicated life.

Cant change the past only try to be stronger and a better man each day than yesterday. So... say your sorry where possible.

So what is next? An Epic Adventure to clear the mind!

Well, I will be starting a new blog. This one will have only my race information on it and I will go back through this and pull my race reports out and transfer it to the new blog. No training runs, vacations nothing etc. Just races. I will pull a Mike Keller and print this blog as a book and close it down for ever. But I will post my new blog. Time to leave the aid station and get out of the past miles.

Mohican 100 next year will finally be my buckle. Then Leadville 100 start line. My goals 2012

Shall we say minimalistic life. I will bump into you all as chance will have it on the trails but will be focused for these two races the next 12 months. I will see you with out my blubbering gut but will still be a bald man. LOL

See ya on the trails!

Run on! On and On!

It is what it is

2011-07-28T20:16:00.000-07:00

Well, the word has been sent. It is what it is. Ok. Let us move forward then I guess.

Good luck to the runners of BR 100. I know you will do great!

I had a good training week. The miles have been hard and fast so far. Unfortunately, some as wipe broke into my truck yesterday and stole my wallet. Ugh... Window 215 bucks, wallet, 50 bucks, replacement fees 25 bucks. Mohican, painfully but priceless....

40 miles so far...

50 mile training

2011-07-25T03:12:00.000-07:00

It is bright and early and my second week of my 50 mile training is on its way. Shesh... why 5:30 am is such a good idea I will never know.

Today after work I am off to Mohican to get a run in. I have been working on hill training and heat training as well. The only reason I am worried about heat training for a race October 22 is that well... it is hot out there and I cant do anything about it. ha ha

Last week I was able to put 28 miles in. I was really pretty happy with that considering my motivation factor a a bit low at the beginning of the week. I have finally been getting out of the funk I am in now the races I have been putting on are over and my brain can rest.

I am off to do my morning weight training. Ugh. September 15th the regular lap training in the pool starts back up so I need the weight training. My body weight is down so I am stoked about toning up.

Monday: 6 Miles
Tuesday: Off Weights
Wednesday: 5 miles
Thursday: 8 miles weights
Friday: Off
Saturday: 9 miles at Kendal Lakes (fast training while attacking the hills! Thanks!)
Sunday Walk 3 and Bike 6. (Recovery, my legs were sore from weights Thursday)

I have a few training runs with friends planned this week at Mohican and CVNP and working an aid station at Burning River 100. I do not know when I will get there but I plan to watch the BR site to pick the best time of arrival. I do not want to get there too early.

I am going to have a blast at this 50 miler. I will announce it now. My body is healed and I am running strong this entire past week. Slow build but my goal is to PR at the 50 miler. The weather and the terrain will be all supporting of this idea.

Oh, had to scrap the Tri idea. No good road bike and too much race stuff got in the way.

Mohican Xterra

2011-06-25T21:06:00.001-07:00

I am working on the race... perhaps I will keep it... :-)

496 posts and there is so much more.

2011-06-25T08:45:00.000-07:00

Michelle kicking ass in the Mohican 100 and finishing second with a strong time that would have been sub 20 at Umstead!

Oh my I have been slipping on my posts. I have had so much going on and been so busy I needed to sit and get a post together. I have to admit I am using FB more and more.

Let me first talk about Mohican 100. I can tell you I had my ass kicked by that damn race! Amazing. I am not sitting here being all boo hoo over it. I just need to readjust and go back at it. I went Monday and cleaned trails so I can go and get that fucking buckle next year. I now have a free entry into the race. I have my room reserved for next year and I am going to toe the line. This year I became dehydrated and that is same news old news but it is what it is.

I was glad in one fact that it aloud me to crew for a truly amazing woman (Michelle) as she pulled off one of her most amazing 100 mile races and finishes ever in her young career. There will be more of them. She also had a great pacer Brandon that was simply amazing! I wish Michelle the best of luck in her future and racing. It will be great to hear about her accomplishments!

Well and now me? Well... I took this past week off and felt sorry for myself and got to take a good hard look at some life personal things. Well lets just say that I have been too focused on me and my needs and not focused enough on the needs of those that are most important. I realized I need to change myself mentally, spiritually and physically. I have really been a pretty depressed person over the past year but in reality most likely for some time.

So I am making a few changes and directions in my personal spirituality and going to work on some demons with in my mind. I used to be such a layed back person and I have become so high strung. I realized that I need to clear my plate. I think with my career advancement I have been trying to juggle so many responsibilities that I add in race directing, running (training), keeping up a house personal life, family, etc etc etc. Got to go back to basics. Minimize some stuff. I am going to start with just being on my own for a while. I am just going to sit and watch the world rather than be the world.

I have asked Kim Love to take over the Forget the PR Mohican 50k and 25k. She was honored and very happy to have the opportunity to continue tradition. She will work with me some this year and more the following year learning all the ins and the outs of the race. This year I will be working on a time line chart as well. I will hand out the 5 year buckles and then Kim will be on her own for the 6th year of the race.

I have the Mohican X-Terra Race in a few weeks and once this is done I will be done with the race. Perhaps if they have the Xterra series next year one of the North East Ohio guys or Gals may take it on. But this will be my last year.

Now lets talk about my running plans. Well... I am going to go to a speed clinic in Akron this Tuesday. I am going to learn about how to build on speed in my running and try to focus on shorter running for now. I have decided to drop from the Oil Creek 100k and take a break from trail running. I might go out and run 3 or 4 miles or what my training plan calls for. I would like to be able to get to the Columbus Half Marathon this year and see what this old body can do.

I met with a neurologist who looked at my back injury two years now has past. There will be no change and the lost of muscle control in the leg is just going to be a fact of life. I don't impress anyone anymore with my running. That is Ok. Part of the demons! LOL

I have lost 4 more lbs this week alone. Not eating and not drinking beer helps! That beer drinking is going to go real social times from here out. Just need to get away from it. I also bought chicken and have had no red meat all week! In fact since last Thursday! Wow! I will be hitting the weights once more in the house as i stopped my Y membership to save some money. I have to make some cuts. The budget is tight and now I will have a little less reasons to be out of my house so it will help. Pay some of these damn bills I have.

Well, That is enough for now.

Continued story

2011-05-01T09:19:00.001-07:00

Many who read my blog complain (as friends) cause I do not post comments and sometimes I just stop a story. Well let me explain so you underst...

I had a decent past week running and working out. The IT band is phewwwww weeeee there but not preventing me from running. I ran last Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday Wednesday and this Saturday. I went this Saturday to Mohican and met with Nick and Lindsey. They were wanting to get around 15 to 17 miles in and I was wanting to work on Mohican training and get familiar with the first part of the bike trail. I have my Mohican 100 mile pace plan and will come from behind in typical fashion that will include a walk run pace plan.

I worked the first 11 miles with Nick and Lindsey and had a great time chatting and laughing. We rotated follow the leader and then I said good bye and headed down the road to the covered bridge to work on my walk run. I love running down to the cover bridge on the road for some reason.

Along the river I stopped at my favorite spot of Mohican and sat and watched the river go by. I so want to camp right there! I think about a river a little like history in the past going to the future. In the past that water went by some really cool people and great experiences and as time went by so did the river water flowing down and by the beautiful until it went by me yesterday and then continued on by to the next person that gets to enjoy it.

I ran 15 miles and then took off home before Nick and Lindsey finished their 18 miles. Molly and her friend was ready for me to get home and make dinner. Later in the evening, Nick came over and stayed the evening having a few beers and telling stories. Nick is moving to Mansfield at a friend of mine home. It will be nice to have a good bud in town.

I so wanted to just get in my Kayak when I was watching the river go by. I will continue to enjoy Clearfork Lake for the time being as I am still getting my Kayak legs but enjoying it. I have been fortunate to get to meet a cool "Kayaker" although, I never got to go out Kayaking, I was reminded it was ok to do some things on my own. So, I will get my skills better and I am so going to plan a few adventures.

Speaking of adventures. Let me see...

Ummm Going west with Molly first week of June doing some camping for a week. I can not wait! We are planning that one. I of course have Mohican 100 in Mid June and i am super stoked about it. Although not that i am going to be in great shape running wise, I am doing all I can to prepare. My weight is down 14 lbs in the past 3 months and 7 lbs in the month of April. I an calorie counting right now and getting back to the Y doing some cross training.

I am signed up to do a Triathlon the end of July. The triathlons I had done before in the past I did ok in but I did not have a good bike to use. I still don't but I do not care. I will suck but it will be fun and I will finish.

Colorado, August 7th... I will be in Colorado and my buddy Jessie will be getting married. I am very happy for him but I have a secrete I am working on. I am stupid but what can I say.. I am going to do some camping in the Leadville, Arizona, Utah area after Jessie's wedding. I am planning on going back out to watch the Leadville 100 in late August. Man, that race facinates me...

Update

2011-04-27T22:56:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying the IT band is going well! I have been running the past week utilizing the run/walk method as my ability to run. It is amazing, how nice it is, to run down the road. The past week, I guess I had about 23 miles. LOL about...

I might have made a hasty comment. I had said that this year would be my last year to run 100 miles (and last year). I even sent the word out to the Forget the PR 50k and 25k volunteers. Wow... I might have made a mistake.

It is always nice to send your volunteers out a very nice thank you for all the hard work and for making this race great tradition. I have watched the past two weekends go. I am truly happy to call this race OUR race,

Do you know my race had over 200 runners in it? Amazing! I was so blown away by this little race that developed over a few runs in Mohican! LOL I have to tell you all a story.

This race became as a result of a trip too Dover, Delaware when I really think about it. I went to run my first Team Slug Event my most favorite race I have ever ran. It was this event that I became Pres of Ohio Slugs!! But the name I was given was Rob "Buckeye" Powell...

That was a great run and adventure for sure. John... Thank you! And that was the seed of the Forget the PR 50k and 25k. Look at it now... We had such a great time! Beer thank you Nick! Here are some links to pics from the race! Pic

In progress...

Hi there... My name is Rob

2011-04-12T20:35:00.000-07:00

I kinda laughed one or two times this week. Funny how one day you wake up and just sit up to take a look around. Yesterday, brought the new start of a week and a Monday. Pretty cool, reflecting on the past week or two. Umstead 100 now behind me and a great time had pacing 50 miles (51) with Mike Keller. I also found a way to get my hands on his really cool flash light! Don't worry Mike, you will get it back. COTRs that sure was fun down there seeing everyone!

Now for Forget the PR 50k and 25k. Where to start... so much going on. Well, I guess I have 200 to 230 runners coming in with about 75 spectators and about 40 volunteers. I guess that is something to think about. It is 2008 Don Baun and I were running trails in Mohican. I was discussing my thoughts of having the biggest 50k in Ohio. I wanted the toughest course in Ohio. Well, did I mean this? You bet! :-)

I have been running and having problems with my IT band still. I went to see a Neurologist to get some input on the effects the back injury has had on my running. The over all assessment was all good. He did say that perhaps the nerve was damaged to a point that I just will not get full recovery. He said the X-rays show a healthy back but we are going to get a MRI completed just to be sure nothing is still against the nerve. If not, than I will need to expect struggles and effects brought on by the running. Everything else function wise is good it just affects my running. Sometimes you just have to stop things you love cause it is for the best.

l had already accepted that this was going to be my last year running 100 mile races. I am focused on Mohican 100 right now but the new focus has shifted to healing the IT band. I am not going to go to the Kansas race and instead focus on 50's for your Moma May 7th. I am going to work with my physical therapist with those extra weeks and try to get some ultra sound work done with some cross training for now. I enjoy going to the Y and have met some really cool people there so it is easy to go work out and motivating.

I already knew that I would be in my last year of running 100 mile races and that I wanted to shift any running to shorter races of distance being 50 miles or less. This is still the plan, but I was wanting to make it cause I wanted to and not cause of injury. I will fight to get this IT band healed. Change is inevitable.

I have been giving some thought to buying a canoe for some time. I just did not like the canoe weight and transport issue as that would be a problem. I had explored kayaks in the past and loved the fact that they weigh only around 45lbs. I could transport it in the back of my truck and lift it with no problems. I always thought it would be cool to canoe and camp along the rivers in Ohio some summer and go from one part of the state to the next via Ohio rivers. I have just always been too busy and rushed and running. Single life gives you the opportunity to see the world and to meet new people. Well...

Last Thursday, I finally decided to take the plunge. I went to Zansville and purchased a great kayak deal. I brought it home and I am very excited about the adventures that are out there in life.

Molly and I like to camp and we have been on some great adventures together but it is time to get some new ones. I am going to get through the Forget the PR and start some planning for sure and see where I end up one day. Camp fire early in the morning. :-)

I am going to post only races as I run them on this blog. I am just not really getting the time free to post anyways. Funny how FB and Blogs waste time... Someday I am sure I will look back and say it was worth it. LOL Some of it anyways. Ha

Back to back and more to come ;-)

2011-04-11T11:30:00.000-07:00

Interesting day it has been.

Umstead 1 year later... and 51 miles.

2011-04-03T14:00:00.000-07:00

Mike Patton

David Huss and Terri Lemke

Jay Smithberger

Friday Morning

I woke up to get my stuff together and made a road trip out of the weekend. I was off to Umstead 100 to help a good friend Mike Keller go get his 1st 100 mile buckle. I was lucky to have some company for the ride down as Mark Carroll said he would make the trip down with me. We were lucky to caravan with Suzanne and her girls right behind us. We all made it in town. Mark was going to pace Lindsey Brokaw on her first 100 miler.

Mark and I had made it in our minds that our jobs were to first get Mike and Lindsey to their first buckle and then help anyone else we could. Lindsey had Matt with her and Mike was on his own. So we both knew that we might have to use some serious tricks to keep them going for 100 miles. There was also going to be Jay Smith Berger and family, David Huss and Family, Zeidner, Pattons, Bowen-Miller, Wolfe, and Blackfords just to name a few.

I have had some IT band issues with my leg. I thought I may only be able to get one lap in or 12.5 miles. I still wanted to go cause I told my friend I would be there. The IT band injury required me to keep working on it for the past month. Yesterday, I finally beat him down! I decided I was going to run 50 miles with Mike. Mohican 100 is in June and it was time too see if it would work.

Saturday

I woke and went to the state park around 10:00 am. It was real nice to be around my Ultra Running Friends! We sat and watched the race until 2:30 pm. I went back to Moms for a pre run lunch. (thanks Mom!)

At 5:05 pm, I started out with Mike Keller on Lap #5. Mike was bit tired but we spent the next 30 min catching up while I took on the role of assessing the current conditions of Mike's mind and body. When you have a friend who you are pacing for the first time. You have to figure out how you will meet their needs to assist them in finishing THEIR race. I like to think as myself as a person that tries to keep them motivated, moving when they want to sit, to get what they need at aid stations, carry their supplies, and be that person for them to vent on. Might even have to trick you to keep you moving as I did one year to Michelle at Mohican. She thought she was getting a 30 min nap... :-)

Mike was fun cause quickly into my assessment he said "I wont be able to talk all the time" indicating to me that he perhaps could be difficult to handle if he wants to sit. In fact, he wanted to sit for a half hour when we were first starting at the aid station but got him out. I explained to Mike he has done a great job telling me how he feels and what his needs of me is over the next 50 miles. I asked that he would need to agree that I always have 1 trump card. That no matter how bad he feels he has to agree to follow my advice and do the opposite of what his tired mind is telling him. That kinda helped if he was feeling low at points as we knew we would get them. He even told me to shut up? LOL My assessment must have lasted too long. Ha

Mike and I ran the first loop of 12.5 miles in 3 hours. I tried to run behind him unless we were on straight sections and we chatted on and off as he felt. He did so great! Loop 6&7 we walked and put ourselves.

Mike got his buckle. I am still in NC and will be visiting Mom and going to the mountains to camp and recover my mind and body. So I will need to get back to this post later.

40 mile weekend

2011-02-20T13:29:00.000-08:00

Good training this weekend. I met up with Mark Carrol, Micheal Patton, Jay Smithberger, Seth Chin-Parker and Terri Lenke to run a great 25 miles! Michelle Bichsel started running about mile 10 of the run.

Man was it good! After a long week of running added with the previous weekends 32.5 miles and yesterdays 15 miles I was bushed! I was able to run fast and work some hills! I was very happy except for a fall later in the end and getting real tired. I wanted additional miles but after 25 I was tired. Finally, I am training once again! I do not have to work tomorrow. Hmmmmmm

The Begining or The End

2011-02-19T13:57:00.000-08:00

Michelle, Lindsey and Rob

Lindsey on her way to her first 50k!

Up and Up Who turns around? Hmmmmmm?

El Race Director (Roy Heger) Giving tips to Teri how to run.

Smiley

That is right!

This past weekend I went to run in the FA No Shirt 50k at the Cuyahoga National Parks. The course took me 16.2 miles out and back on some tough trail conditions while I ran 28 miles of it all alone.

I did keep catching up with the second place runners (Roy, Teri and Michelle). I say second place lightly as the reality is that it would not have been a second pace if they were racing. I know Teri would have opened a can of whoop ass up. Man she is and awesome runner! I think she ran 25 the day before. Amazing. I am sure that Michelle would have taken Roy and god knows how many of the girls that turned around at the 40k spot would have kept going. BUT THEY DID NOT!

I was very proud to see Michelle kicking ass running strong in front of me. I felt like I was playing Indian run from mile 16.2 on but Roy, Teri and Michelle was just not going to let me lead. LOL. I must have caught them 10 times on the way back only to see them pull away once more. At one point, I came to an aid station and they were all standing there saying "here he is again we cant loose you" and I smiled knowing the competitiveness of Michelle and Teri "Why are you still here? I hear voices right behind me." I said, I smiled with glee as the three took off in a rush.

I later ran into then three miles down the trail and I shared my joke. Ha Ha!

But as steady as I ran they never bonked but rather pulled away. Great job!

I finished with a 7:27. The second place group finished with a 7:22 and first a 6:38. What tough trail conditions! I have to tell you that I am damn proud of myself for my run this day! I kicked ass! No one else told me so Ithought Iwould. LOL

I am continuing my training, swims, weights and steam and sauna training. I am getting ready to add biking. We will see what this year brings with Mohican. I do see some changes in future running distances. For now I will continue running and working with the run walk method for now.

Well off to recover from my 15 miler today and I have a long run in the morning at 7:15 am. I hope to exceed some miles as a second long weekend training run. This weekend and next weekend. I hope to get 30 plus miles in tomorrow.

Freezing elected officials pay raises and Ohio economy stimulas plan

2011-02-17T14:19:00.000-08:00

Senator Jordan and Representatives Goyal and Ruhl,

I would like to thank you all for your public service and ask that each of you consider my following two recommendations. These two items are provided in effort to support the repair of the economy of the state of Ohio. I would appreciate a few short moments of your time to review and acknowledge my humble suggestion and your positions on these two issues.

1: I ask that you all introduce, if not currently in effect, a method to limit all future pay increases in your respective positions in the Ohio House and Senate and turn the right for pay raises over to the people of which you are elected. It would be a merit based pay raise. If your constituents determine that your representing their local issues appropriately then pay raise would be voted approved. To add such an item to the ballot based on law would be cost effective and assure representation for the people and by the people and not based on party lines or special interest groups. Even U.S. Rep. Bob Latta, R-Bowling Green & Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio saw the need to limit US pay raises in the House and Senate when others in the United States were not getting pay raises. With the recent introduction of Senate Bill 5, I almost have to say that it would be hypocritical of the Republican party to not introduce such limitations, with such a large Local Union Public Employee unions in your respective districts. Tough times call for drastic actions.

2: I would like to point out that there is no web site that I could go to as an Ohio employer to find out what Ohio made products are produced here in our great state and the contact information of the respective manufacture or service. This prevents the possibility of you introducing legislation perhaps in temporary nature to promote a buy Ohio slogan. Example, Ohio employer purchases Ohio made products there is no tax based incentive where such employers could submit proof of purchase for a tax based break based on sales tax. Point in fact, based on the State of Ohio fiscal reports over 80% of tax based moneys collected comes from Ohio employee payroll. So if Ohio employers (businesses small and large) have a tax break for purchasing Ohio products at 6% less, then that money would be supportive of creating more jobs to collect more payroll tax, and additional income for those selling the manufactured products causing more Ohio tax, thus would more than make up the difference of the lost sales tax paid by the purchasing company. This promotes buy Ohio from Ohio Manufactures. Short term in nature to measure the cause and effect.

Thank you for your time,

Rob Powell
Mansfield Ohio
21 year State of Ohio employee
Union and Non-Union Positions.
Bureau of Workers Compensation, safety employee
567-241-3537

2011 Free State Trail Run 100k

2011-01-21T15:51:00.000-08:00

Thank you. You have successfully registered for the 2011 Free State Trail Run.Packet Pickup will be: Friday, April 22, from noon to 6:30 p.m. at Garry Gribble's Running Sports, 839 Massachusettes St, Lawrence, Kansas.

There will be special giveaways at this packet pickup.

For out of towners, there will be packet pickup on race day.

Ohlone!

2011-01-20T19:30:00.000-08:00

So when the bell rings and your dead... Will you have any regrets? I always looked at this as a open ended question. Well it depends I always say... It depends on what I do or did that will matter. Really, that is what it is really about. Life is what you make it and not what others make of it for you.

I have a dream race of the Leadville 100. I have always had a problem with trying something new when you have not accomplished what you have always wanted. Well perhaps sometimes in life you just have to accept failure and not move on to something new. I have been trying to run the Mohican 100 mile race three years now over a 4 year time period. Perhaps, I should just give up and realize that no matter how much work and effort I place into a particular goal I just can not accomplish it. I will never be able to finish Mohican 100 so why should I try to reach Leadville 100?

Almost sounds like life really, right?

Well my dumb ass sometimes is too stubborn and bullheaded to accept failure and so I try and try until it drives me crazy and then I become obsessed. Obsessed to the point it is just not fun anymore or do stupid shit.

"I will quit", "never do it ever never", "too much I cant do it" "I can not except what is happening!"

Ever say that after a 100 miler? I have.

Well if I am ever going to reach my "DREAM" race at Leadville 100, I will need to start making some changes in me. It is ok to have a dream, but still struggle with the challenges that the road in front of you may have and still be happy.

I have that dream in my heart. Somtimes you have to evaluate your heart and soul to really understand what you did wrong to get here and make some changes. In my case, my list of wrongs are great but I have to make some changes.

My weight and my heat training.

Simple, loos weight expose my body to heat and hydration challenges while training continues. The old Tom Jennings plan. Thus I run use my membership at the Y and loos weight. But I need goals and tests to prepare for Mohican to finally get that dream.

I have looked at the Free State Trail Run 100k (100 mile pace run and test it out?) in Ks April 23rd and then the Collegiate Peaks Trail Run (elevation, can I handle a Leadville?)May 7th. Finally the Ohlone 50k in May 22 in CA to help me with the hill climbs HUGE CLIMBS and heat of Mohican that I hope might keep me from puking? Perhaps one, two, or, three? Hard to tell. Will this motivate me to train? Will test actually help me get my goal race or my dream?

I have learned, I have nothing to loose but a world to learn. The bell has not rung yet...

Sometimes you just have to take baby steps to get to the next goal that will perhaps get me my ultimate dream. Ohlone along the way. I will need to finalize some ideas.

New year and a new begining is here!

2011-01-20T14:58:00.000-08:00

1/1: 11 miles Jays Get your Ass to the Bio with Michelle
1/2: 6 miles with Michelle and Don
1/3: 4 miles with Michelle
1/4: 4.6 miles with Mansfield Run Club
1/7: 7 miles local
1/8: 16 miles with 8.6 with Scott
1/13: 6 miles with Eric
1/16: 13.1 Run for Regis
1/18: 4 miles with run club
1/19: 7 miles Mohican
1/20: 8 Miles with Eric

Finalizing a new state to train for the Mohican 100 mile race (Thanks Don good advice as always!) I was going to go to the Florida Keys 50 Miler. Heat is good but I have that state already! Duh Don said. I have my eyes on one now. A few other races are coming up and I have a few races I will do. Of course run some spring WRTR.ORG races.

I have lost 5 lbs this past two weeks and I am joining the YMCA in the morning. I get a discount as a state employee. Cant wait to start swimming laps like I used to when I did a few triathlons. And YOGA! Yes YOGA! Loved it last time I went.

2010-11-28T14:12:00.000-08:00

Monday Off
Tuesday 7 miles
Wed Off
Thursday off
Fri 5
Sat 4 miles with Mansfield Run Club and additional bike ride
Sunday 10 miles in Mohican with Zac, Zac, Rob, and Kristen
Week Total: 26 Miles

Training goes on

2010-11-23T20:02:00.000-08:00

November 8-21st

Ummm I forgot. But last Saturday I had a great run with Michelle as we pushed each other to some fast times and fast hard hill pulls. Some 7:45 miles in there. Sunday we had a great run at Malabar. 12 miles and it was so great we had a blast.

Now to do better on my logs.

Vacation and Race Director meeting

2010-11-14T10:37:00.001-08:00

I was privileged to be part of a meeting today that consisted of some great race directors from north east Ohio. We were meeting to discuss the WRTR and points for the series. It was very inspiring to be part of that meeting. We are working on this years races and the point system planning.

The good news is I found motivation to run later. :-) I cant wait! 15 miles with some of it is going to be dark. But so will the beer after. Apparently, I should have been at Wild Bill's. ;-)

Vacation is now booked. It appears looking at the calendar I will be 40 this December. I have always wanted to do something fun for my 40th. Sooo I booked a trip for my Birthday! My 40th will be spent on the beach instead of in snow! I had been saving and by eating mac and cheese...
I also have been planning an additional get away for Molly and I during Christmas Break. How dare I say two beach trips! LOL

Future races I am still in planning. I am planning on running in all of the WRTR races this year for sure. Mohican 100 and I still want to do Leadville. Although, my body has been healing and I have been letting it heal and recently started some speed work. The body is not ready for that speed and pounding. I am down to 188 lbs. Down 12 lbs in the last 3 months. I have been working on weights the past few weeks getting the body ready for increase weight training. I only have bar bells and I need more for training. So, I joined a local gym here in Mansfield today. Little motivation for working out and equipment that will let me strengthen my back and legs. Much more nice to work out around others... See ya next week for the next update.

What a shitty week.

2010-11-13T17:52:00.000-08:00

Well my running consisted of 14 miles this week. I was going to go run in Bill Bad Ass 50k. But I did not make it as there was more important things at that time.
I have no motivation to run on Sunday so 14 it is. I am going up to meet with the WRTR Race Directors on Sunday..

Oh. Taking a vacation for a while. See you on the other side.

2010-11-07T05:07:00.000-08:00

October 25-31st (Race Week)

Monday Off
Tuesday 2 miles
Wed Off
Thursday 2
Fri Off
Sat 32.5 miles
Sunday
Course.Week Total: 36.5 Miles

November 1-7th (Easy week)
Monday Off
Tuesday 2 miles
Wed 8 miles
Thursday off
Fri Sick
Sat Sick
Sunday TBD
Course.Week Total: ?

2010-10-26T19:41:00.000-07:00

Monday 3.1 miles
Tuesday 10 Miles with Mitch and Mansfield Run Club
Wed Off
Thursday off
Fri Off
Sat 2 miles
Sunday 26.5 miles with Michelle (27 Miles) and various runners on the Forget the PR NEW 50k Course.
Week Total: 41.6 Miles

Week in Review

2010-10-18T20:49:00.000-07:00

Good week of running...

Monday 2 miles
Tuesday 12 Miles with Mitch and Mansfield Run Club
Wed Off
Thursday 8 Miles at 8:40 per mile pace
Fri Off
Sat Off
Sunday 18 miles with Michelle (12 Miles) and Mitch. Hard push on all hills! Oh man the hills..

Week Total: 40 Miles

Next Week: Plan to increase miles and add a 50k slow while mapping the new Forget the PR Course.

Piss up a rope! WEEN!

2010-10-15T17:57:00.000-07:00

This is a very good song and fitting for my day! But no longer my problem. LOL

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7M3EEHYkJ0

Next Plan

2010-10-15T17:04:00.000-07:00

So I have spent the last year working on a few things in life. Some I have been working on the next plan for a while with some mixed reviews in life of clear directions. Today, I think it is all very clear for me now. I laughed at some of my thoughts of past but now I know the Next Plan:

I entered the Regis Buckeye Trail race in January. I signed up for the half marathon. I hope I will be ready for a fast paced hard race by that date. If I feel like it after I am done racing and the temp is good I will go back out for a second half or the full 50k jog. But the half is my focus. I have been training hills and picking up speed. I had a 8:40 per mile pace average for 8 miles yesterday. Picking up the pace with two miles at 7:30 per mile pace.

The only goal I have right now is Mohican on the brain, of course Molly too (as always!). But outside of Molly, Mohcian is the only thing I am thinking of now. Train train train. More hills and more miles I will go.

I will be looking at a spring 50 miler and trying to pick up a state in the process. I will need to save a few dollars for a trip. Driving it will be most likely and see some world like I did as a kid at the age of 22. I am very much looking at doing some more camping out of my truck and trail runs at various state parks. Perhaps some races too! I get 6 weeks vacation a year! Molly and I will have fun on some adventures as well with plenty of road trips camping.

I am going to ski with Molly this winter since we are right beside a ski slope. LOL 3 min away we are ski bound all winter! If the savings goes well perhaps she and I will go to Colorado to see my buddy Jessie and we can go to Leadville to ski on 3 mile long trails!

I am wrapping up a few things at the new house. I finally!!!!! have it how I want it. Well at least a few things. There were a few things I had been... waiting around on addressing but I now have the green light to make it how I need it. I don't know what I was waiting on. Laughing at myself. Lazy!

So Train Train and save, January Race, Winter Ski (Mansfield & Colorado and visit Colorado), finish painting in the house this winter and plan some truck camping trips myself and with Molly.

Next Plan.... I want to go see Leadville for a reason. Mohican is going to be on the buckle. But I have always wanted to try Leadville 100. And I am going to fucking be there! :-) On the start line!

So there it is a small little snap shot.

Here we go boys and girls

2010-09-27T19:48:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here thinking to my self that I am ready to come back in the spring. Last June, I had back surgery and in August pulmonary embolism in both lungs. I also got to experience my lowest of lows and highest of highs. I also learned so much about myself including up to today.

First, let me tell all those that see this post. Forget the PR Mohican 25k and 50k will be April the 17th. Registration will occur on November 1st at 12am. However, those that are seeing this post can tell "whom ever" "however" they want that the registration will open for you from 10:00 PM to 10:30 pm. Early "fan site" entry.

Each year the weekend before... I have the Race Directors Race. I run the course the weekend before to take on the challenge I have set out. (Volunteers RD weekend or Race weekend e-mail me at rob1770@msn.com)

5:12 the first year 5:40 the second. I will go for a PR on a course that is going to be completely changed. I am adding.... More hills and river crossings and getting ride of bike sections and out and backs. If all goes right... 5 river crossings and 1800 feet of elevation climb. I am going to meet with the parks and see if I can get the route!

Number 2 on down for both male and female will be awarded with special numbers for the runners! Enough said.

Next, I will be ready to race come spring of 2011. I plan to run the Green Jewel 50k 2011. I ran a 4:12 there last time or something like that. I had two great runners in front of me and behind me was pushing my ass from out of no where for like 7 or 7:30 miles at the end of that race. After 28 miles or so the race was on. Lets have some fun.

I also plan on ending up in Delaware New Years Day for the Slug race. I hope I can make it across the bridge... That place was the site of my PR 50k 4:07. I also will plan on being 180lbs at race day and I want to finish my weight program by then. Anyhow....

I am running in Mohican working on speed work and hill work these days. I am flirting with 7 min miles on flat road but dead after 2 miles of that... But I am moving along.

Lets just say I am leaving it all on the trails on June.... Mohican 100. Buckle! I will be a 26 hour finish! Prediction here!

Working out is harder than eating...

2010-08-10T13:00:00.000-07:00

I am doing some adjustments in my training plans and methods. I have tried this before but it appears I like to get fat and lazy instead of working out. Ha. Who knew?

So I drug my butt out of bed at 5:30 am and went and started my old (modified) weight routine. I am realizing quickly that perhaps a gym would be best for me to go to. The Y is right down the street so I think that I perhaps will start going there. I think going in the mornings will help me deal with the amount of people I normally see there in the evenings. But I used to swim laps at Galion and did a few triathlons. Loved that!

So I will be doing a few modifications on things and I am cutting my running back for a while, until I loose more weight and tone up a bit. I will still run but I just want to run 2 to 3 miles three times a week and one weekend run. Perhaps on trails and some distance but more like calling 10 miles as the long.

I am going to drop from Oil Creek 100k and run in the Akron half and Columbus half marathon. I think that these two races and the working out once more will help me tone and I will work on some moderate speed training.

Mmmmmm I like to eat but my metabolism is slowing down. LOL

August 7th 2010.

2010-08-06T20:11:00.000-07:00

I am going to get up nice and early. Go for a run and then come back to the house and pull my boot straps nice and tight. I am sitting here making my list of goals and projects and plans and... Well lets just say. ;-) LOL This next year will be.

High pressure sales!

2010-08-01T21:10:00.000-07:00

Step right up one and all! Boy do we have a deal for you! That is right the one the only! But wait! There is more! Yes ladies and gentleman! This is once and a life chance! You too! Could....

So. Sales pitches are so easy to be bought into! That is why they are called a sales pitch! This all could be yours if only! Oh yes my friends! Beware of the sales pitch!

Joe Jurzeck told me last week that the temperature was going to be great this weekend! I should run the BR 100! I bought in!

Well... I thought that that is exactly what I needed! 100 miles of fun in my life. But as it turned out it was only 39 miles of fun and sure was not a "puke free" environment! But man was it great to see my ultra running friends! Don and Betty even provided great rides home! LOL Once again!

I loved it!

Thanks! It was just what I needed. What a great time to see you all!

The bad parts of the weekend will one day turn to a good part I hope. But I am happy that it was yet another moment even if it was tough.

Funny how life is.

2010-07-30T05:06:00.001-07:00

Earlier this week, I woke up and realized that perhaps where I was today in my life, I was supposed to be there. I figured all things happen for a reason and it was time my thick head finally started seeing it. I decided that I was going to take the ultimate step towards addressing one of the most important things in my life. But, all things happen for a reason as I walked out empty handed as that store door closed behind me. All too late and a dollar shy.

Addiction: being abnormally tolerant to something and dependent on something. No I am not on drugs. LOL. My friend pointed out to me I have been addicted in once sense. Man was she right I thought as that door shut behind me and I got into my truck and went home.

I have to stand up and get things how I want them and no longer how others want them. Being forced to do things is no way to live. My mind has to become clear at at peace with things and I need to get back to that easy going guy I was at one time.

I took a good look at my weight and how my sensible diet is non existent. I am too old to act like a kid so I had better stop eating like one too. My weight today was 190 lbs. Which I was still pretty happy with. But I want 170 to 180. Hard to believe at one time I was 225.

I used to work out with weights all the time and my body reacts well to lifting. So it is time to get that together too.

I sat last evening and got my list together of housing projects. I have a few items to make changes to and to complete. Get ready everyone I am going to have a open house party in September. I am going to look at the schedule for OSU and plan accordingly.

But Molly and I will need to get to cedar point this year! Sheesh!

Hey Rob! This is a running blog! Yes yes I know. But this is how all of the previous plays part to running.

So, I was planning on going to BR to help my friend Michelle run in the Burning River 100. But, I decided that siting around and waiting on Michelle to come by and then leave for 21 to 24 or so hours just did not sound as much fun as running in it. She has always been my hero when it comes to running and if she can do 100 miles with the type of training she has had, well, I should be able to do 20. Watch for her this next year she is going to kick some ass!

So I had not had too much to post on my running blog. But so now I do. Thank you (Lucas) for your follow up.

I will be at the Burning River 100 mile race this weekend. Running in cooler temperatures might help my fat ass. I do not know how far I will make it. I hope to make it 100 miles. But all is good. I just needed the friendly feelings of ultra runners and a mental and physical beating up to help me work on my weight and weights as I lead into the next phase of running. Hell if I get a buckle it will be cool. My buddy might come up and pace me if I get to a point that it looks like I will finsih! LOL

But I am looking forward to that pain as I sit and plan on the next state I will add to my list. Now is the time!

I might have walked out of that store empty handed but I would not have traded what got me there for anything. It was the best time of my life. But I have to move on and I have a new addiction. Running: Abnormally wanting to accomplish something and dependent on that next mile.

Planning for the future?

2010-07-24T18:58:00.000-07:00

I just spent the last hour making a really cool post. At least that is what I thought.

I was explaining a brief history on a few things and a bit about my life and why it has become just too complicated. I was explaining all the many things that I do on a daily basis and I compared it to my childhood and just how simple it was before computers, cell phones, blogs, facebook, twit this, twit that, this newsletter and that newsletter. Between all the life work, home, appointments and responsibilities it has made life just too damn complicated and demanding.

After an hour of writing I had what I felt was just a perfect posting. A masterpiece if you will. Near the finish, I some freaking how hit a button that caused the post to become deleted. No, it was not a sign omen or any fucking crazy thing like that. It was just my stupid fucking fingers getting in the way. Well, such is life, and my transition that I am on. Easy enough. I am looking for simple and simple it shall be.

I have missed too much of life sitting on my ass with a lap top and writing life adventures as if it will become a historical publication for some museum some day.

I am reminded by my friend Josh who I was lucky to meet in passing of this life. He was a Cincinnati college boy. Clean cut and prepped for a world in accounting! Accounting.

I am sorry, me personally, I remember back then thinking, accounting? He was in this world of ultra running and was a very fine runner I must add. (In my efforts to symbolize why I want to simplify my life, I will keep this short). But one day his car was crashed and he met a girl and ended up in Wyoming. He grew a beard and lived in a TP in the wilderness to help him realize just how simple life should be.

I will always remember his adventures. That transition that life experience that he had. Honestly, if could figure out how to import all of this shit I have written in the past to a word document, you all would be seeing a blank screen right now. But the reality is, I need to start planning my simple life. I have made it much too complicated.

I need to make my life way more simple. Time to live life my friends. The less amount of things I have to do the better.

The End.

Well well well.

2010-07-23T15:25:00.000-07:00

So I am on the look out! Watch out! I have a plan! Ohhhh Yeah! Time to knock out another state! Looking looking looking!

Life is like a mail box

2010-07-19T13:29:00.000-07:00

Today I opened the mail box and found that my good old Uncle Sam sent me that refund check I have been waiting on! Funny thing was is another check I was waiting on also came. I had smiles on my way to the bank knowing I was going to make a nice deposit. .

But funny I realized... Life is not like a box of chocolates but life is like a mail box!

Rarely in life does one get to relate life to a box of chocolates. Sure you get some time to enjoy a box of chocolates but in a box of chocolates you either like it or hate it. The ones you hate you can just spit out and be done with while the ones you like you get to savor and enjoy. There is no middle...

In a mail box it gives you great news, good news, so so news, and terrible news. You can not spit it out cause it seems that it always stays with you. Bills for example, collections, IRS collections, IRS checks... (Side note: No collections for me but, IRS, I owed them and then I get my refund so all was good)

So anyways!

Life is like a mail box, never now what you are going to get.

A 50-mile race report

2010-05-20T18:53:00.000-07:00

Went to Wisconsin. Ran 50 miles. May 8th. Ice Age Trail 50 miler.

Finished.

Report done.

Gone Fishing

2010-05-05T21:01:00.000-07:00

Stick a fork in me, I am done! I was sure I was supposed to have things figured out but it seems that I am wrong most of the time. Well, I am putting out the gone fishing sign!

Little Bunny Foo Foo...

2010-05-04T04:01:00.000-07:00

Posting To say here we go!

2010-04-22T21:10:00.000-07:00

Ok, ready set go!

100 miles @ Umstead

2010-04-01T19:30:00.000-07:00

I suppose that it is time to provide my Umstead 100 mile race report. It has been 4 days since I finished the 100 miles in 26 hours and 38 minutes. I love placing that word in the opening of a race report. "Finished".

While this is my third 100 mile finish, I far too often I forget that the word finished is what each of us make of it. It may be is as fast as we wanted or as slow as we hated, but completing is the ultimate prize and reward.

I had a blast at North Carolina and found the 8,000 feet of elevation to be very manageable. The initial half of this race I ran a 24 hour pace. I knew that I would not be able to finish sub 24 hours but I was hopeful to break 27 hours and would be happy to just be "Finished".

Michelle and I ran together for the first 20 miles as she pulled ahead for a while before I put a fast aid station exchange and found myself about 3/4 of a mile ahead of her. She saw me coming towards her at an out and back section and I gave her a smile. I saw that competitive nature take over and no longer did anyone else exist in that 100 mile race but me as she smiled back. I saw her three miles later as she snuck up to give me a pinch and to startle me. We ran together for another 8 miles as we also spoke with Jay Smithberger who lapped up with us and ran with us for a while. Jay ran his race in 15hours and 22 min.

Michelle pulled ahead and kept with her the need of keeping an eye out for me. Michelle asked before the race if I had a goal of beating her. I told her then that my goal was to be just far enough behind her that she was looking over her shoulder wondering where I was. After the race Michelle said that I accomplished that. Michelle did great and finished 25:57.

I had a blast at this race and had the typical pains aches and problems that I expected. I enjoyed the race but I sure enjoyed the the finish! The time does not matter, the finish is what matters. I finished 105 out of 133.

I feel that I am going to have my Mohican buckle in my hand this June. Then, I will try a new sport. Anyone ever play sitting around? LOL

New beginings

2010-03-19T20:16:00.000-07:00

Well, I am a week before my next 100 mile race. Last year at this time I was getting ready for a 50 mile race in May 09 to prepare for my Mohican 100 mile adventure. I have had a few forks in the road medically since then that caused me to reflect and think if I would ever run a 100 miler let alone a 1 miler in the future.

With respect to the training aspect part in my life. I am now looking at Umstead thinking about the approach of this race. I am looking for it to be the next step in training for the Mohican 100 mile buckle finish. I have at this point of time of my life learned the need to make sure that I place my needs with training as a priority to assure I get that finish!

Quote of the day

2010-03-07T11:57:00.000-08:00

"If you come to a fork in the road, take it" - Yogi Berra I took a 68 mile training week!

I run in shorts and he wears pants.

2010-03-06T17:27:00.000-08:00

Ok, just a point of view I suppose.

Where is it written what you must wear when it is winter?

I run in shorts and walk in pants. They look with astonished views on their face at the stupid little runner on the road. "What the hell is he doing?" I can see the question on their face as they go by.

So today as I ran 21 miles in the 40+ degree weather Don and I were questioned by a young lad why we were running in shorts in winter. I asked of him in return "why are you walking without a hat in winter?" He said it was too warm.

So as I lay here recovering and battling the mind. I was admiring my sun burn on my face and head and I realized. Huh, I should have worn a hat...

Pizza and Beer

2010-03-01T17:25:00.000-08:00

Oh hell yeah! I got a frozen pizza followed up with a cold beer..... Big screen and a movie.

Iron Horse 100k a combined race report

2010-02-28T07:53:00.000-08:00

~Rob~ The Iron Horse 100k in Florahome, Florida is one of a series of races that Michelle and I have selected to be part of our 2010 race adventures. The Iron Horse 100k served our need for a 50 mile training run as we prepare for the Umstead 100 mile at the end of March. We knew the ability to enter the Iron Horse would be easy; the training to be ready for this race was going to be the hard part.

The 100k is set on an old railroad track, the Old Norfolk and Southern Rail starting in Florahome, Florida, going east for 12.5 miles and then return. The course parallels Highway 100 and consists of a 25 mile out and back on an unimproved rail trail. It was flat with grassy and gravel surface, no hills and is shaded very well. We also got to enjoy the Florida national park system as the trail has been converted over and are part of the park systems. The swamp areas and the farm lands provided promise for the possibility of seeing some local wild life. The effects of the possibility of seeing jumping tarantulas did not impress Michelle very much as the little white lie was quickly discovered.

The races started right at 7:00 am as all of the 50k, 50 mile, 100k and 100 mile runners gathered at the start line ready to explore their running ability. Many found the cool 34 degrees as a need to dress for Ohio weather. Michelle and I found that shorts and long sleeve shirts were perfect for the tropical weather and the no snow and with traction. The runners were from all over and included an Ohio runner Roy Heger who is a local hero for both Michelle and I.

The race started with a shot into the air and the 100 or so runners started the race jockeying for position then single filing down to cross the first railroad trestle that would be one of 3 we would use to cross the local swamps with. The trestles provided me with fear each time as I crossed them. Two of the three only had two 2x4’s boards nailed down that you would cross the seemingly large pit of water hundreds of feet below me with all the crocodiles waiting to eat on a fat runner from Ohio. Well, possibly the water was only 20 feet below and perhaps the only wildlife we did see was the cute little puppy dog that Michelle wanted to carry around and find ways to getting it back to Ohio.

Michelle and I ran the first 9 miles together as we loosened up and chatted about the course and what we felt laid ahead. Michelle then moved on down the trail as I started my plan to run the race incorporating some of Wayne Snyder’s methods of running fast, the RUN WALK METHOD. One of the biggest challenges that Michelle and I had was how to manage this course being that it was all flat and with no hills to force some walking. I chose to run the first 9 miles before going into a ¾ mile jog averaging a 10 min per mile pace and then walking averaging a 17 or so min per mile pace and I wanted to keep around a 12:20 per mile pace average. This method worked well for me as I found it difficult to keep from the low 9 min per mile pace on the run and walking around a 14 to 15 min per mile pace for an average of 11:30 or so. This was intriguing to me as I continued this until mile 33 where I started to tire. I would get to see Michelle at the turn around points which helped us both look forward to the next turn around and seeing how each was doing.

I had two lows in the race at mile 45 and again at mile 53. While I could not blame it on hydration or food as I was doing exactly the race pans had called for assuring I had 25 to 30 oz of water and hour and 300 calories of food each hour as well. I laughed as there was a cross country team helping out and as I would find an aid station that would fill your water bottles for you, I would shove food in my mouth as I grabbed and got out. I guess I spent less than 5 min out of my race at the aid stations total accumulation time. It was a smorgasbord of food and I loved it! The running pace was great and while I slowed I did keep the run walk the entire race.

I found my way out of the first low at mile 45 I think as this caused by the “Oh crap I have a long way to go” syndrome. The next low was at mile 53 where I learned a valuable lesson to use for my 100 mile race. (remember this is a training run). Yes, I found the value of real food, particularly the value of a hamburger at mile 53.5 was just what I needed as I walked out for my last 9 miles or so eating this burger after stopping to change my shirt and forgetting my flash light. I finished my burger and within 2 miles I was at a steady jog during my run sections and the next thing I knew I had this unexplainable ability to run 8:30 miles. I was running and running looking at my GPS seeing low 8 min miles as I was passing runner after runner and continued this with no desire to walk, I just wanted to run faster and faster.

I got to the last aid station dropped my bottles for refill and ran out towards the turnaround point just a ¼ mile or so out past the aid station as I met Michelle coming back to the aid station. I pushed hard to the turn around and back to the aid station to get my bottles and found Michelle a few hundred yards later. It was getting dark and the need for a flash light was absolutely needed due to the fear of falling on the large rocks left over from the train tracks. Michelle like I also did not take her flash light. So, this training run reminded us both to bring our flash light.

It was so cool to finish my first 100k trail race with Michelle as we held hands and crossed the finish line together with an official finishing time of 12 hours and 58 min. We both also found that we were going to receive our first 100k belt buckles together as we enjoyed what we both felt was a great training run and an introduction to the many to come.

~ Michelle~ This race proved to be a great starting point for both Rob and I. Rob’s performance was very impressive to me especially since he used a run/walk method. I chose to run as much as possible and only walk when my body begged for a little relief. I actually only stopped and walked a few times until the last 4 miles when it was too dark to see.

I spent more time at the aid stations then I should have but it worked well for me because I fueled myself and hydrated properly this race. I used about 100 or two yards after the aid stations to walk and continue to give my body the food and hydration is needed.

I had some lows in the race where I just didn’t want to believe I still had so many miles to go. At the half way point with 31 miles left, I had to dig deep mentally and try not to think about what was still ahead. This race was a great training experience, I wasn’t ready yet for the distance, I need to step up the mileage and strengthen my core but I did gain back my confidence on how to fuel and hydrated my body properly.

The last four miles were very tough, I was very cold, tired and weepy. I am not sure if I would have made it back to the finish if Rob wouldn’t have caught back up to me. He gave me his shirt, put up with my complaining and guided us along the very dark trail to the finish line. This race proved to be an excellent learning experience for us both and one we will never forget.

Weekly Training

2010-01-31T20:18:00.000-08:00

Don, Dwayne, Teri, Julie, Mike, Rob, Mitch, Luca, Jay, Michelle, Brian, Thomas.

Quote of the week: Those that judge others should beware! Don't be so proud, your really not that important!

And the week goes like this.

I had a great week of training.

Monday 10 Miles

Tuesday 2 Miles and Yoga

Wednesday 2.5 miles

Thursday Off

Friday 3 Miles

Saturday 21 miles (No Shirt FA)

Sunday 20 miles Forget the PR training day.

Weekly Post

2010-01-24T19:13:00.000-08:00

So much has happened this week. While I have tried to keep this blog running orientated sometimes life can kick your ass. This week life has done it and has affected my running.

Some of the things that have occurred I wish did not. Some things learned I wish I had not. But, I am moving forward and I am getting what I need to help move forward in repairs as needed on the things that are under my control. I have learned this year that things can always be worse. So smile and it may seem like the end of the world I just try to keep the smile.

The week of running was Tuesday a 6 miles with Michelle and the run club.

Thursday, I ran 3 miles before Molly came over to hang with me for the evening. It is always great to have her hanging. But we did not get to play PlayStation as FB and texts are important to a 13 year old who does not like Dad all the time.

Got out to run today at Mohican for about 6 miles after picking a loop section that included river crossings and the river was just to swift. Michelle was going to get swept away. You should have seen her on the log she crossed to get over the raging river just a few feet under her. This was her only option to get across. We decided that when we got across the second river that the third was going to be just too much. The rain was just enough at this point we called it a day.

Weekly Recap 1/11 to 17, Why Running?

2010-01-18T05:49:00.000-08:00

Monday 4 miles, Tuesday, I ran 8 miles with Michelle and the run club with 4 miles of that with Kay and a little bit with Wayne. Wednesday, morning I got up and made it over to Mohican for 6 miles with Don then 6 miles more for 12. Thursday was time for a day off along with a Friday resting for the weekends 50k. Saturday Morning Michelle and ran 3 miles shake out to get the legs ready for the next morning.

This week, I have been feeling really good and have been looking forward to this weekends race. I looked at it as as a first step towards meeting my ultimate goal of finishing Mohican 100. Years past of ending up sick on the side of the trail puking unable to walk down the trail has to get nipped in the ass!

The race day started with a late night Fazolis spaghetti dinner with Michelle and as stop by Home Depot to find the right size screws for our shoes to deal with the expected icy and snowy conditions on the trails. All the prep was in place and then a 3:30 am wake and followed with some carb loading water intake, and drive to make it to the race site by 6:30 am.

I was impressed by the organized effort of Tanya and her race volunteers! As a race director myself I have been stealing all the ideas I can from the WRTR RD's! I got some more! Michelle and I both had that feeling of excitement for the race and the feeling of racing in our blood. While her racing focus is her passion my passion is training for the ultimate goal, not getting hurt or re-injured, and finally just to finish while taking time to enjoy the race. Seems simple enough right?

The race started in a field that brought back the many days of cross country race starts from high school in my mind. The only difference was that in traditional ultra running fashion no one wanted to be on the start line and I think the closest person was 20 yards away before we herd someone yell "go!" and the race was off.

My race was focused feet placement which I found to be good on the ice and snow. More ice than snow. My screwed shoes gave plenty of traction but I still took it very slow on on areas that I worried about. The course was beautiful with a 5.0 mile out and back look and a 8.5 mile out and back look repeated the 8.5 mile section twice and the 5 mile section 3 times for 32.5 miles.

My goal was to break 7 hours and 3 min. This pace of 14:28 per mile pace will be the required pace to make my next 100k cut off times that will be on non snow ice packed conditions and on flat hills. So I was thinking that if I can do 7:30 for 31.1 miles here, I can do 15 hours later and make 62.2 miles next month.

The race was uneventful seeing all the runners, getting to see the lead pack runners at return sections and I would get to see Michelle at the various locations of the race as she pressed on. I was always happy to see her running along and I could tell she was wanting to make sure I was ok. She is a competitor, but she would stop dead still on that trail as I came along to talk with me and make sure I was doing ok. I would have to get her moving on along again back to her race.

I had so many runners that took time to comment to me that they were glad to see me out there with them and that I was able to be hitting the trails. I get the feeling that most of them realize when they see me in my (temporary) modified running speed now days that the impact the recent year took upon me. But they cheer me on as they pass or go by and that is what Ultrarunning is about!

I got to run with Clara who likes to take months off of training and then pick a race like a 50k and drive to it and run it. And she "chicked" me too, lol. Nice job Clara. I had never met her before the race day and had only blogged. It was good to hear about her introductions to the ultra running and her life goals as to where she wants to be in her future races.

I finally finished with two things on my mind as I crossed. One, I was freaking tired and felt like I ran a 50k. That is the good news as I was not injured, did not fall and was accomplishing that next step toward the ultimate goal. I also headed towards the finish line and saw Michelle standing there clapping and cheering me to the finish line as others joined in with her to cheer me in.

I sat next to the fire with fellow friends and we shared stories and had our normal poking of fun with each other. Mark, Dave, Elizabeth, Bob, "Red", Michelle and I went to the Winking Lizard for a beer and food. Mark and I sat there in a glazed dead stare of pure tiredness. I could not eat all my food and we left for our drive home and recovery. LOL

Now, I finished in 7:43. Remember my goal for 31. miles was 7:30. Later, I realized that I made the goal as the race was 32.5 miles long. YES! Next, the next month of training!

Oh why running? You know that question was asked of me yesterday and I had to think what I was running for. Was I running away from something or towards something? I thought at first it was that I was running away from my previous weight and cholesterol medicine. I realized now it was that I was running towards something. As I reflect upon yesterday and think of the friends and comradely that goes along with running.

The warmth returns at 40!

2010-01-14T18:59:00.000-08:00

So it appears that it is going to warm up and hit the 40's! This is going to be great since I have the Buckeye Trail 50k or Run for Regis race this weekend. I am going to use it as a training run for a 100k in February. Slow slow slow I will go. I have had a chest cold the previous weeks that just wants to hang around. The warm weather is nice to run in and not the cold!

I ran 15 miles Sunday, Monday 4 miles, Tuesday, I ran 8 miles with Michelle and the run club with 4 miles of that with Kay and a little bit with Wayne. Wednesday, morning I got up and made it over to Mohican for 6 miles with Don then 6 miles more for 12. I ran by Mr Avery Ball's trailer and I am sure he was waiving with a smile. Today a well deserved day off! And a movie!

Dreadmill and a cold Pop!

2010-01-10T11:17:00.000-08:00

So I had it in my mind that I was going to get 10 to 20 miles in today but the outside was turning my thoughts into a cold beer and football! But I managed to wake up early enough that Molly was still sleeping. So I hit the blasted Dreadmill! Away I went for about 3 miles before Molly woke as we were going to go look at at house this morning. She woke in her usual bright cheery happy self (lol) and came down to say hi to her fat old Pop running away. I could tell that she was ready to get b ack to Mom's so I stopped running after 7.3 miles and took her home. She said she had "stuff" to do. LOL Oh so busy at 13.

When I came back I decided it was just not cold enough to keep me from continuing my run. So I liked at it all as a 15 min aid station break and went outside for punishment! Is it me or am I the only one that a mile into the runs says "hey I will just go 10 more miles!" only to end with 7.7? LOL It was cold out there and the roads are crazy with snow. I need to screw my shoes for next weekend's slow training run in the "Buckeye" Trail Winter 50k or Run for Regis!

15 Miles in and loosing some weight!

Helloooo 2010!

2010-01-09T10:52:00.000-08:00

Well I have still been training away at my slow snail pace working with what the good lord has provided me. LOL hmmmmm..... (would have liked to have the "stud" format but this will do)

So 2010 I hope will bring many good life changes. One such change has been:

Michelle and I have become more than running friends and have a tendency to surround ourselves with other adventurous friends with twisted points of view on life. (running and a few goofballs, see above lol). We both love our kid's very much and place no other person, including each other and running, before our kids. Life just sometimes has a funny way of happening and in our case we happened to find each other. We are both blessed to have supporting families and ex-spouses that may not always agree with us but, are THE best mom and dad that one could ask for each of our kids to have.

Michelle and I have been running and training for future races. While training together will mean that sometimes she will need to continue her pace that I no longer am able to keep up with, I always look forward to seeing her running back to me at the end of her runs to pace me in. I still get to have those runs with her that she just slows down and runs along with me and we cruise the road, woods and trail that we are exploring and living life's free spirit.

We both love having support and encouragement from each other to run, train, find races and accomplish that inner sickness we have that causes us to have the desire to cross that finish line!

Thanks Michelle for being on this road with me as we move on!

I am working on a 10 mile trail race that will occur in July on the 10th at Mohican state park. This will part of the exterra race series and promises to be a tough 10 miles. With over 1400 feet of elevation climb it will be tough. Michelle and I went out there last weekend to run the course for mapping and for marking a few trail sections for keeping as much of it on trail as possible. It was great to have her perspective as a past college cross country runner for additions of course and aid stations such as water. She just is looking forward to being on the top of two hills that will bring over 600 foot of elevation climb in .50 mile. She is an ambulance chaser. LOL Next time we are there it will not be 12 degrees. LOL We froze our butts off and it was dark when we got done!

Well, off to run before Molly and I go see a Movie!

Late Night Post

2010-01-05T21:47:00.000-08:00

So it is 12:48 am and no a creature is stirring not even a mouse... ha.

Time to get a post up and I guess that since I could not sleep now was as good as anytime to do so. I have been running and training hard. I have had a few 40 and 50 mile weeks the past few weeks. I took off 1 week after having some IT band problems. It appears that sometimes that will happen and so I have been attending PT at a local area to continue to strengthen my leg and supporting parts. But I am better and focusing on my running.

This evening I ran 10 miles and 4 of those miles with the Mansfield Running Club. It is nice to get out and run with them and to see all the faces. Loved the chocolate cake that was provided at Rancho, but I had to calculate in my 2000 calorie diet I am sticking to. (only ate one piece)

The running weight will need to drop as I accomplish my goals that I have set for myself. They are after all, my goals. We all have our own and I have realized that I need to keep my goals priority as others keep theirs. (after Molly of course LOL). So the additional miles in the cold was my first step in assuring that my running goals are not interfered with. Provided the body makes it. LOL

I have been going to a local gym working out three days a week and this has been great. Building my core and strengthening my tired body parts. I am realizing that setting expectations for myself is achievable and works best. I enjoy going in to the gym in the mornings and seeing JIM who works there. He is always sitting there on the bike betting if I am going to run to the gym in the snow or not. Always smiles and talks some politics and economy as he slides out of the way of my work out.

LOL I figure play with Molly, run a few races, train with cool people, see places I have never been and stop and take a min to realize that the road taken to get here continues on. So ,I figure I will go run it and have a free spirit!

Is it cold outside?

2009-12-22T04:48:00.000-08:00

Busy busy busy! I have been busy!

I got up this morning and put a 5 mile slow run in around Galion. I enjoyed the snow and the lights outside. While it was 6ish am the running down town (all 1/4 mile) is fun to do. I have a few different routes I utilize and have decided that they all suck! So, this morning I just ran. I ended up at my house at exactly 5 miles.

So what has been going on with me? Where have I been? Well, running wise I have been running. I have had some 40-50 mile weeks and some 20 mile trail runs. I slacked off the past week with some hip pain from some muscles that are slow in responding after the back surgery. I am still way further and better than I could hope for. But! It is still early and some of my faster paces that I had hit in the past month and a half will need to wait as I just need to focus on form.

I have had a pretty major life change as some of you that have followed my blog or know me knows that 2009 was full of ups and downs! I know that things can always be worse but I am looking forward to 2010. I had back surgery and blood clots in my left leg and both lungs. Two separate situations that have affected my running and quality of life. I am recovering but moving along.

2009 also had the end of my marriage after 14 years. It was final on my birthday December 17th and no I did not dance in the court room. While the demise was ultimately my fault the accumulation of life's experiences is not of regret. My focus is being a good Daddy for my daughter Molly and being a better man than yesterday.

I have some races planned for 2010 as I look forward to a new year and plan ahead.

Buckeye Trail 50K winter race or Run for Regis January 17
Iron Horse 100K February 13th
Umstead 100 March 27th
Forget the PR 25k & 50k April 18th (Race Director)
MMT 100, May (Crew for Michelle)
Cleveland Marathon May
Mohican 100 June 19th
10 Tough Mohican Miles (1400 feet of elevation climb in 10 miles, part of XTERRA Series, Race Director)
Summer Buckeye Trail 50k July 17th
Burning River 100 (Crew for Michelle)
And based on Umstead and Mohican, I plan on running IN the Leadville 100 miler in August.
Oil Creek 50 Miler, October
Columbus Marathon, October

Hmmmm, yup that should do it. 2011. I plan on retiring with my 3 100 mile buckles in my hand from 2010 and run a few half's, a couple marathons and a few 50ks with a possible 50 miler. I think it is easier to crew for Michelle than to try to keep up with her.

Mohican Training

2009-11-12T03:39:00.001-08:00

Karl took some great pictures!

Michael, Rob, Brian, Mark, Michelle, Karl

Dawn, Rob, Thomas, Don

Sunday morning we had an opportunity to introduce the Mohican trails to some who have never ran on them before. Michael Patton arranged the Unofficial MIT training Run at Mohican. Four runners got to experience the beauty of Mohican, for the first time, as we set out to run 15 miles.

We ALL decided we were not going to continue to run to the Fire Tower and back and to just stop at 9 miles. (although a run to the dam and back made it 10.5)

I am sure had nothing to do with the challenging course that the Forget the PR, Mohican 50k race provides. I am also sure it did not have anything to do with the mud that was on all of our feet for 5 miles of that run. LOL (Michelle likes a muddy section of this race course). It had nothing to do with Michael who was trying to map the course for updated race maps fell and busted his knee (he is better now).

It had everything to do with we were just a group of trail runners having fun!

Nice to meet you all and thanks for coming out!

Ok Ok!

2009-11-11T07:12:00.001-08:00

I have received several e-mails and calls stating that I need to keep posting my info. Thanks! You asked for it.

Final Post

2009-11-08T18:50:00.000-08:00

So here is the deal...

This is the end of my blogger posts. Sometimes in life you have to move on right? Facebook!

See you on the trails! I will be the guy with a smile.

Rob

Life Goes On!

2009-10-28T22:32:00.000-07:00

You know this past week has been one of reflection and planning.

1 I will be a better man yesterday.2 I am a GREAT FATHER! 3 I am glad I have ran fast and slowed than to never have ran fast at all. 4 I will not be a martyr of my misery. 5 I will stand tall. 6 I will not be persecuted wrongly and care. 7 I will be happy and me. 8 I choose not to play their games. 9 I will be with positive strong minds 10 If 9 does not apply to you I am willing to help you.

On to running and off philosophical crap!

I had a great 10 Miler with Michelle on Sunday, Monday off, Tuesday met with Eric for his first trail run for 5 miles and I ran 7 miles today with Don and we measured the section from the fire tower to the covered bridge for the Forget the PR course to ensure accuracy. GPS 4.03 Wheel 4.06. Leaving the course length on that section as marked 4.25 miles. With 6 GPS units showing 30.5 to 31.1 miles I say we are GPS friendly plus the entire course has been wheeled twice.

Put together a 100 mile training plan for Umstead 100. I gave Michelle a copy but expect her to make some changes to what she likes. We just like having someone to call slackers when we do not get our runs in. I try to run with Michelle as much as possible and Don once a week. it helps.

Columbus Marathon and RWS

2009-10-24T06:30:00.001-07:00

I have a medal. LOL

Slow down you've got to make the moment last!

See I do have Groupies! Thanks Olive and Donie

Ok, Ok, Ok... I need to get my race report up and tell some more lies.

First, the Columbus Half Marathon was very enjoyable. I had a slight hamstring tweek from all the freaking hills at the Oil Creek 50k the weekend before. It was there but not painful this weekend. I planned on taking it very easy at the Columbus race as just a place to get my long run in. I have enjoyed so much just enjoying these races not focusing on the race but focusing on the fun and surroundings. I even took time out to sit on the bench and watch the race go by like I did in the Cleveland Marathon.

I went up with Kristen, Eric, Jim, Scott, Leslie and Michelle. This was great to ride with a group to a race as it was so much fun! I had a set of pink bunny ears that I put on when Eric and Kristen showed up. I had everyone in on the joke that I wear bunny ears before races as a little bit of a pre race tradition. I have met Eric and Kristen a few times and thought it would be fun to do this. They both took it in stride after the first couple of "hey nice ears" and I acted like nothing was strange about it and finally said Oh yeah, I have always done this pre race thing and continued on talking about other things with the bunny ears on like nothing was strange. LOL it was darn funny!

We ate at Max and Ermas after and Eric Jim and I worked on our beer in take since everyone else ran the Marathon we just knew that we had to do something longer that day as Eric and I did the half. LOL. Everyone had a great showing and did a great job at their race! I ran a 2:10 and had a blast!

Additional Congrats go to Michale Patton for breaking a 3 hour marathon and Tony Tanner for completing his marathon in style.

I am planning on going to Run with Scissors in the morning after all. I am just going for a trail run. I will run between 26.2 miles and 53.4 miles. Since it is a double Marathon I understand that the Race Director MR ROY HEGER has located a few additional hills that he put into the race. Last year I worked an aid station and I want to make sure I try out some of his hills this year.

Hope you enjoyed the pictures.

Oil Creek 50K

2009-10-11T07:28:00.000-07:00

Way Cool Oil in PA "Birth Place" who would have thought!

Beautiful course

Kim, Brian and I think Mike (he had a Western States buckle on so he is awesome!)

Happy Boy!

I headed off to Oil Creek State Park where Tom Jennings Race director was putting on his first 100, 50, and 31.1 mile race. Tom is a Mohican 100 Finisher and first year race director. we have been friends for some time and have traveled to races together. He has raised many many dollars for food banks and yest again his primary focus on this race was to bring attention to Oil Creek but also to raise money for charities. Way Cool! I found his course to be more challenging then Mohican and well organized. I would recommend that this race is put on your list for next year.

I arrived Friday evening to find a wet Titusville PA. I was less then impressed with putting up my tent in the rain and decided that I should use my big truck as the headquarters for this race the next two days. I went inside to find volunteers everywhere and a cafeteria of runners at the local school which served as the race start and finish.

I grabbed my food and was walking across the school cafeteria having flash backs of trying to find the cool people to sit with. Just kidding. At an ultra race you can sit with a table of strangers and leave as friends. I heard a "hey Rob" and it was my friend Kim calling me over. I was able to sit and chat with Brian, Kim, Mike, Nick, Maria, Amy and Maria's Mom. We even took time out to marvel at Ms Boner. No not Ms Bonner. Brian had fun with that as he just had to go see and meet Mr. Boner. We all thought for a few min how Mr Boner approached Ms Boner and asked her out initially.... He must be very cool. I digress.

I was sitting that at the prerace meeting nervous. "Nervous"? I have run in one or two races before so why am I so nervous? Prerace anxiety? I really did not know how or if I would be able to finish the race with all that has gone on. Am I ready yet, I sat there and thought when I spoke with my friends. I later spoke with Tanya, Mark Shelton, Dan, Dusty and her husband (sorry I have short term memory) and a few other ultra runners before heading to my truck for some sleep.

The next morning, I woke at 4:45 am and the rain was still around and I knew that the 100 mile runners were going to have a cold day and even a cold night to come. With temperatures expected to be in the low 30s I could only hope that the 100 milers prepared as I snuggled back into my sleeping bag to sleep for another hour. I walked over to the cafeteria in my pajamas to find some of the ultra runners all ready to start there 50 mile race which started at 6am. Maria and Amy were dressed as twins as they asked why I was not ready yet. I think I just muttered good luck as I headed to the coffee pot and walked back to my sleeping bag in my truck. The mist/rain and low 40's were telling me that I wanted to go back to sleep and not run yet.

I had my breakfast (Pop Tart, PBJ & Ensure) and finished my breakfast as I hopped out of the truck in my shorts the Forget the PR, Mohican 50k t-shirt and my hydration pack. I headed back to the cafeteria for some inter-mingling with the 50k runners. I saw there in front of me Pokey Slug of the TSI Slugs. We chatted for a while catching up on our life and laughed as we charged the other saying that the last place award would be ours.

The race was about to start. I saw all the runners on the line and I just walked in front of everyone across the street and stood and stared. I was watching them all under that start line banner with the time clock ready to record their moment in time. I was just full of excitement and nervousness still. Wow! I thought as I walked back to the crowd and placed myself in the back of the pack. 2009 has been a hell of a year I thought.

As far as the race goes, I will keep it short. I ran and walked, the hills were tall, long, short and hard. I was not ready for a fast 50k by even my current ability but I was ready for an ultra with my ultra friends. I ran with Pokey, Kim, Mark and met new friends harassed a girl that was wearing a Michigan t-shirt (which I beat) I ran with the front runners (only cause about 25 runners failed to see the proper course marking and took a 3-4 mile wrong turn). I ate plenty of food and was thankful I was not doing a 50 or 100 miler and found the course to be tougher than Mohican and very scenic. I fizzled out about mile 27 and had some crampy feeling in the back of my hamstring that permitted me to run only a bit but fine when walking.

Mark Shelton and I walked the last mile in together as I thought about when I called him up after my back surgery and he took so much time to share information about recovery from back surgery. He had the same type of surgery. Lots had happened since then. But I crossed that finish line and I had never felt that I had earned it more as what I did in that picture.

Run for Regis (Winter Buckeye Trail 50k) 2010

2009-10-06T03:51:00.000-07:00

Entered

Darn Hills!

2009-10-05T03:32:00.001-07:00

Ok, so the week leading to the Oil Creek 50k will be a good week! I have to say that I am happy where I am at with respect to my running. I had a great 13.2 mile run with some awesome hills yesterday with Michelle. I was supposed to run with Lucas, Luca, nick and his pacer for his 100 miler Bret at Mohican but found myself a bit under the weather in the morning and had to bail. By days end I was feeling so much better and was needing to run. I texted Michelle and we were able to meet at Lexington for a good run. The course was full of hills that I was able to work many of them. I got tired with about 1 mile to go and I slowed to a fast walk to recover a bit. other than that short walk and one of the big hills I ran the entire way including some big ass hills. 11 min mile average. About 2 min 30 sec per mile pace off the normal.

I went to the Mansfield Area Y Road Runners Club Tuesday and was a couple min late as I pulled in just as the crew (bunches of them) was heading out. i ditched my truck and ran with Don Baun and Joe Crawford and even got to talk to Wayne about ice cream. Then I went to Rancho and drank two nice beers and ate some good Mexican food followed by a great homemade dessert. A weekly treat from Melanie!

Molly was able to come hang with me two days this week as she is keeping her dad organized. We made it out to the video store and got ourselves some junk food. Hmm that would be why I did not run Wednesday, I was eating junk food. LOL

Friday came and I was thinking that I would have no problems getting another run in which i did. Finally! The week just flew buy and I kept telling myself I was tapering. LOL It did not feel like it yesterday.

21 miles of Mohican

2009-09-30T20:02:00.000-07:00

I am going to do the ultimate stealing from any post ever. I will stop short of being plagiarism. Nick (who will be completing a 100 miler in October) has to have his running adventure shared for one, and two he does and awesome job describing the group run in Mohican.

http://runtrailsforever.blogspot.com/2009/09/what-awesome-sunday.html

Ha

2009-09-25T22:53:00.000-07:00

Training for a 50k?

2009-09-24T02:05:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I am back on my feet more and more each day. I am coming to grips with the slower pace I am going to have to run. Many of the Physical Therapist I have talked to said that I should expect 1 to 1 and a 1/2 years before I get completely recovered based on their experience.

Ok, this is fine. I was told about a book "no need for speed."

Followed up with the Dr the other day and while we are progressing and looking better in all terms there are a few more questions that will be answered in November when I have a repeat CT scan completed of my lungs. The Dr approved my increased miles and the 50k and encouraged me to sign up for the Umstead 100 which I made it in.

I ran 7 miles Tuesday and I ran 5 miles yesterday. I then went and practiced my darts as my league starts this upcoming Sunday afternoon.

Half Marathon Completed

2009-09-20T10:51:00.000-07:00

I made the decision to go and run in the Mansfield YMCA half marathon being held at Lexington, Ohio. I arrived early enough to meet with the Mansfield Area Y Running Club at 7:00 am. Michelle also was planning on running the half. It was so nice to see so many local runners and many were interested in how I was doing and how my recovery was going. I could tell how supportive they all were with me attempting the half marathon. Funny how I am using the word "attempt" It is not like the word "alleged". (how fake!) This was my first attempt at 13 miles since my recent medical issues and it was so nice to be on the start line.

Now for those of you that ran with me before you know I has not extremely fast wheels but steady and could maintain the 7:30's for a marathon at my prime. Today was not the same. I ran a 2:10 half marathon at an average 9:59 per mile pace. Yes, that was some what reserved but still only about 5 min off what I had the potential at present to do. I pooped out at mile 9 and the body was tired but was steady. I ran with two fellas and we shared experiences of life and we discussed that it was funny how me being at 190lbs I was the smallest of the three. We aptly labeled our selves the big men running group. WE were proud.

Michelle took off and I saw her and the front runners including Teri Lemke right on her heals at the 7 mile mark on their way back in. Michelle too first place female and first place age group. She even came back out to pace me into the finish the last two miles. Way cool! Thanks!

When headed towards the finish line I was so happy to know that I am back out there. I was so happy to finish and cross that line. The support was great!

"Ego": ego has nothing to do with running but competitive is still there. Out of 20 runners I was 19th with the last place runner nipping on my heals the last two miles. Humble I am and DAMN HAPPY TO FINISH!

I have been adjusting to my new place as I moved out from my house last week. I miss my daughter and wish that things would had been different. I could have handled things much better, but those are mistakes I must live and move on happy! I am fortunate to be 3/4 of a mile from Molly and while Mom and I may not always agree on everything we both agree on letting Molly feel encouraged to see each of us as she chooses. Molly has been over a few times this week and has even helped me decorate and told me I would have to "man up and realize that sometimes you have to buy girly stuff when decorating". She is cool! She said that she likes "our house". Way cool!

Still moving along.

2009-09-18T19:20:00.000-07:00

Dropped too much money the past week. Mattress x2, Bedding x2,movers, household groceries, household items, expensive, evening with Molly watching cool shows on tv: Priceless! Molly made sure I did not buy the John Deere bedding.

Umstead 100

2009-09-09T19:11:00.000-07:00

See ya on the start line March 27th 2010.

Ultra runners do it longer.

2009-09-07T16:42:00.000-07:00

Chip, Joe, Mayo (no shoes, he is tough who needs shoes! LOL), Michael, Rob, Brady, Terry and Me. We did the red and green loops.

No, no, no... It is not some cheap bumper sticker. Although good. I just am making a comment about ultra runners and the reality is that they are all the most honest, true, supportive people that you will ever meet in your life. For example:

I ran 11 miles this weekend at Mohican. I met this great crew of ultra runners who were there to run 21 miles. They started and met me 2.5 miles later where I knew that I could run a modified route to get 10-11 miles. You need to understand that these runners are there to train and they all have the ability to run fast. While before injury I could keep up with most with no problems and even nip on their heals a bit in races.

They all took a slower approach to keep me with in reach. At no time of my 11 miles did I run by myself! That was the most meaningful thing that could have occurred as a runner and as a person. Ultra runners will always be there for you long after!

3 miles recovery run this morning!

6 Mo Miles!

2009-08-30T19:08:00.000-07:00

6 Miles at Mo.

Good couple of days

2009-08-26T01:38:00.000-07:00

I went last night to watch Molly play her first volleyball game of her life. It seems that due to her being tall and a good softball player one of the coaches thought she would be great at Volleyball so she choose that over Cross Country. While Volleyball has some of its' own sources of funny events i.e. anyone that has ever seen 7th and 8th graders warm up for a volleyball knows what I mean. I do like cross country.

I was able to run 3 miles yesterday and Monday got my bike and weights in. This morning at 3:30 AM I awoke wide awake and went ahead and got my weights and core strength training done.

Last evening I went to the Mansfield Y Running Club after running a few errands and a meeting. I was greeted with well wishes and a lovely after dinner home made treat! All and all a great day fun to talk smack with Don and Michelle who were also both there. I really appreciate all the e-mails and visits to me in the recent months. I plan to run Thursday with the Y running club at Mohican. A few miles anyways.

6+ Miles of Mohican

2009-08-23T19:45:00.001-07:00

It is all on the face.

GOOD NEWS!

2009-08-18T14:43:00.001-07:00

Most of you know I had blood clots in both lungs left leg. Lucky to be here. The CT Scan indicated abnormal Heart and Lungs issues that needed followed up. Drs said "probably" nothing. All test are back and are NORMAL! Pheewww What a two we...eks. Runners Read more here about runners and blood clots: http://runningdoctor.runnersworld.com/2008/11/are-runners-mor.html Read More

Want to call it a long run?

2009-08-16T08:48:00.000-07:00

Long day long run. Saturday, I was able to run a 3 mile SLOW jog. I was very pleased with the jog and really enjoyed it! Amy was nice enough to ride her bike beside me to assure I was safe on my run.

This morning, I got up and did a 1 mile warm up, a walk a 1 mile run, a .50 walk, a 1 mile jog and a .50 cool down walk. Phewww. All good.

Respiratory system is getting better. Regular walking and daily life, sleep, I do not feel any pain or reduced breathing as it feels normal.

When running there is no pain, however, I do notice a bit of reduced breathing with any pick up speed as I test the waters. This is to be expected as the lungs get worked as the Dr suggested.

I am all good! I think I am recovering from my back very well. This little hiccup is nothing.

Early Morning Work Out

2009-08-15T09:28:00.000-07:00

I got up early to get my work out done. I finished sprayed some bees and promptly went back to sleep. LOL

I passed on a 20 miler today. I just felt like I would do it later. Ha.

I am an idiot one more time! LOL

2009-08-14T19:30:00.001-07:00

I went for a MRI of my heart today at the Cleavland Clinic.

I had three three things that was looked at in the past week when I was hospitalized. I figure it is time I share them with you....

Blood Clots, Heart, and Lungs. All had abnormalities that was explained to me in a series of progression. I would alo like to say that the Cleveland Clinic has been so helpful and has done great!.

I think you all saw my first installment of the blood clots. The question we are trying to answer is why do I have them.

The heart was one thing that was brought up while I was in the hospital. The heart was an issue due to: 1- high blood pressure, apparently my blood pressure went up when they said something like, ah? what was it? ohh yea! You are lucky to be here you should be dead!

You have a clot in your left leg and multiple clots in your lungs! Hmm no fucken shit my blood pressure went up.

Ok now keep count this is now the third thing they said to me follow along, blood clots, high blood pressure, and now an enlarged heart. The enlarged heart was found by the CT scan they did on day 1.

The next day, day 2, in the hospital they did a cardio echo gram and they said my heart is fine. Phew. They said it was enlarged due to my running and was normal. No concerns.

At some point of time, I had taken a look at the CT scan report and noticed it has something to the effect of Pulmonary Nodule 1.6 CM. I was like what is that? I asked the Dr when he visited on Day three. He explained that our first concern is treating the blood clots and that there is no reason to worry about that at this point of time. It is probably a shadow or a bump that is nothing at all and follow up after I am released.

After some Q&A he said he would speak to the Radiologist as the Pulmonary Dr assigned to the hospital is off this week. He said again that there was no immediate concern to bring in anyone else as the blood clots is our priority. The second radiologist said that the location was just to tough to read conclusively and nothing makes the Dr or the Radiologist freak out as EVERY THING: body parts, organs and blood is perfect! They said it is PROBABLY nothing!

That evening I got my hands on the computer and looked the term. I can continue into a long drawn out definition but the summary is Benign and or Malignant, At that point I had a Panic Attack as my mind does not see all the reasons why it is less than a good reason to worry. But: my heart raced tachycardia or something like that for 8 beats. Then it stopped. I felt it and I knew it. The next morning guess who walked in. The Cardiologist. They caught the heart doing this on my heart monitor. He said after some Q&A and review with history and another Cardio doc that looks at electrical items they said it is PROBABLY nothing But due to the enlargement of the heart lets get a MRI done when you get out.

So today was they day. The MRI on the heart. I made it there, but had to get some X-Rays before the DR would allow me to get the MRI done. Years ago, I had previous exposure to bullet shrapnel from my days on a Prison SWAT team. Long story. Not worth really sharing. But I did get cleared. The notable stuff was that I spoke to people who had come from Utah, NC, and VA to attend the Cleveland Clinic heart treatments. AMAZING! My Dr who is part of the Cleveland Clinic has access to all this!

So the MRI was done and the MRI required me to have an injection and it lasted 40 min. I drove home to Galion. Next thing I knew I walked in the door and my cardio Dr called. He said ALL IS OK MY HEART AND RELATED FUNCTIONS ARE PERFECT AND HEALTHY!

So I was one less thing on my mind and I went to go to get groceries. Now for something funny! My IV injection point on my hand for the MRI... While shopping I became very sore and bumps showed up and I thought it was clots from the IV point. I went to the emergency room. Well I guess I am a bot gun shy. Turns out it was irritation of the vein from the injection. I felt like even more of an idiot than I am.

Ok, Clots being treated, heart is ok. Tuesday, I have an appt with a great Pulmonologist who is going to give me some great great news about my lung. Based on statistics I will be fine. Man it has been a long past two weeks.

Cleared to jog slow.

2009-08-12T15:02:00.000-07:00

I met with my Dr from the Cleveland Clinic who also is an ultra runner today. While we have some additional things to look at I heard some reassuring news today. The Dr explained to me that I would benefit much more from an easy jog than what I would from a fast walk. He said that mentally I need it and physically it will not hurt me a bit. So I did just as soon as I got home. 2 Miles! And of course a walk recovery. Now I am going to go lay down in bed for a while. after a bit more of a walk.

I like you!

2009-08-12T04:49:00.000-07:00

Molly made the 8th grade volleyball team! She has been playing so much softball that she had been noticed by a volleyball varsity coach and told to try out for volleyball. She has only played in school gym stuff and that is it. But she took a liking to the idea and tried out for the team with two days of her life at camp. She and came home and told me the good news that she made the team. I was so happy for her and she was so proud of herself. I saw her Cross Country Coach from last year and he said he was disappointed to have lost her.

Note: Now for my own personal ramblings. I appreciate all those providing the support recently. I just needed to post this one as it was that important to me. I am NOT looking for comments.

The rest of my day went down and down and down. I had a mental health break down yesterday a pretty bad one. One, I guess I needed to deal with. Faced with so many things my brain is a swirl.

I am not normally a crying man but yesterday I was able to let it all out and let go. I walked for almost two miles even in the rain crying like a big baby and continued off an on the rest of the evening. The bed feels like a good place to be for now. Sometimes the most painful and toughest decision of your life is to let go, but sometimes the choice is made and you can only hope that you can live with the decision.

Reality: Once in a while you get a chance to impact someones life and you can only hope that the impact that was left is positive and one that will always make that person feel they were glad they met you. Your impact on this earth is very minimal in reality. We are just a second of the existence of earth. Most certainly only one or two people you know today will be here in 100 years. Most of us in our 30s will be dead in 50 years. Over half of everyone we know will be gone. That car, that house, that bill, that pain in the ass neighbor, the mean boss, the hard expectations on and on. It all just does not matter in the big scheme of life.

I saw yesterday the impact of my decisions in life. I realized that my one and most important thing to me, is Molly, and she loves her Daddy so so much! I have a few, well more than a few things to work on in my second on this earth. Sometimes we are given an opportunity half way through our second on this earth to reflect before you finish the other half.

Now I have had my poor me this past week. I can not change those answers to which I am seeking and shall receive in the next couple of weeks. I can only look and think that if my second was up. Did I make the right decisions? Will the decisions you make today make a person glad that they met you if you left tomorrow? You decisions can impact persons far reaching after your second is up. Of course emotions will fade and time will pass.

I think that if you make a decision and it was wrong, Karma will come to see you if you are hurting others. If you make a decision and it was a wrong choice, Fate will fix what was meant to be. Everything happens for a reason.

Time will tell and lessons will be learned. You can only hope that time will not run out. I am going to go back to bed. I have a Drs appt today and then am going to continue to crash for a couple of days. Then I will make it up to see what Karma and Fate has in store. Damn yesterday sucked so so bad!

OK lets go!

Oh hell yea!

2009-08-10T18:49:00.001-07:00

So I am trying to get so many things done I was just pushing pushing pushing. Go Go Go! I was yet reminded today one more time that there is nothing that important in life! Now don't get me wrong I am not trying to get philosophical on you, well sorta.

I was driving along writing notes making phone calls and placing the mind in the wrong place. Then there was the reminder. Mansfield Police with a laser! Ha! Got me. Busted $118 fine. Suck it not that big of a deal all cool. "Slow down Rob" he said. Ha Slow Down Rob!

Had a great letter from my Grandmother inserted with a get well card. She said Slow Down Rob Slow Down!

Life brings that time to you and I hear it saying Slow Down Rob Slow Down!

Blood Clots!

2009-08-09T22:45:00.000-07:00

I am lucky to be alive today and I mean that with all of my heart. Even though I was receiving recent medical care I had a blood clot not treated in my left calf. I think sharing my story; my signs and symptoms may educate you on this scary event and just may save your life.

As you know I have spent past 7 days in the hospital with DVT in my left leg and PE in both of my lungs and multiple clots at that. I do believe that when I completed the Pig May 3rd I failed to hydrate and keep stretching as I then drove home for 3 hours. I do carry 98 to 99 % O2 in my lungs even with the PE.

My DVT symptoms were pain in my left calf that it felt like a muscle pull. My PE symptoms was I had some limited shortness of breath when running but severe pain in my back to lower rib cage in the front. This pain felt like a muscle pull but came and went and hurt more when I breathed in. I also was coughing some blood.

As I lay in my hospital bed the past week I reflected over the past few months and trying to figure out what has been happening to my health.

At 38 years of age, I recently ran a 4:12 at the Green Jewel 50k and a 3:34 at the Cincinnati Pig Marathon all while maintaining 50-70 mile training week(s). The high mileage weeks were to train for my need complete the Mohican 100 Mile trail race. Not bad for a 190-195 lbs man.

In the period of time from my marathon in May to today I have been hospitalized for 9 days so far with two of those days the result of back surgery. The past week (7 days), I have been hospitalized for blood clots in my left leg and both lungs. I am sharing this with you now to try to get the word out about Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE).

The cause of my blood clots is really not know for sure as of yet. I am receiving tests to help determine if I have a genetic predisposition to having blood clots or a medical condition. It is possible that it occurred as a result of my back surgery (June 4th). I think that you will draw the same conclusion that I did my signs and symptoms developed before my back surgery.(read my blog)

In fact I think it is likely I have had a blood clot (leg) since May the 6th and I received blood clots in my lungs in the last two weeks. I think that I received the blood clot in the leg after the Cincinnati marathon after not taking a break and then driving home while having limited stretching.

This is a very serious situation and I am lucky to be alive. Time will tell if I will ever be able to run again. I will need medication that will make me bleed like crazy and presents a new hazard. Of course the Drs found other things to poke and prod so go get a physical blood work chest x-ray etc. Also see Kim's Web site with additional links and information.

5 Miles training

2009-07-30T20:04:00.000-07:00

Nothing really to say 3 miles total running 2 miles of it consecutive and 2 miles walking. Just tracking some numbers for recovery history and future info.

So the past two weeks I have been doing the 1 mile warm up with one mile walk rotating till I get 5 miles. This weekend I ran 2 miles consecutive and then 3 miles consecutive on Tuesday.

Today, I went with a half mile warm up 1 mile run .50 walk with 2 miles run and 1 mile cool down walk. I am feeling good. Numbness in my foot still there and about 75% muscle control in the left leg with only 40% push off ability when walking or running. Stretching and running has brought good results.

I have been swimming 1/2 mile laps three times a week, Bike rides 5-8 miles 4 times a week, weights 3 times a week, and core training. I have a way to go but I am getting there.

When running the leg does not cause much problems or the back does not hurt a bit. I get some odd sensations with the muscles acting like they do. Stretching is great! Just learning how to adapt and the body is working along. LOL I do get pretty winded and I am sucking wind. I am a bit perplexed by that but hell I am running and the Dr is encouraging it. Slow low miles and steady. LOL

Check please!

2009-07-29T21:00:00.000-07:00

1/2 mile swim this morning with a 5 mile bike ride in the evening.

3 mile run

2009-07-28T19:14:00.000-07:00

I went to run club today. I was going to meet Don for a run but failed to be on time due to to many mid life crisis issues. LOL. True though... I got to the YMCA to meet the Mansfield Y Road Runners Club at 6:37 PM they were all gone. Prompt, and funny as I thought it was ironic that I am the one that always leaves on time. They leave at 6:30 PM.

I started off towards the location that the club runs, into a housing development. This area I am not real familiar with so I was working off some of the past run memories and my short term memories, I have a real short term memory. I am sure that I found all of the roads that made it impossible to find ANYONE.

I just kept a slow but steady pace and the next thing I knew, I was on Cline and way too far away from where I needed to be. I had also noticed that the hills were causing problems. Yes, I was winded. Ha, me winded, I would like to say that some of the muscle control issues were the culprit, but I was just damn out of breath. I did not stop as I climbed hill after hill, heading back to the Y.

I finally was able to catch up with the mid group (cause of a turn) and and followed the Y t-shirts back to the spot which I started. (BOB, HINT I NEED A Y T-SHIRT!) I saw many of the runners back at the Y. Kay, Chip, Bob, Mayo, Don, Joe (100 mile Joe!) and many others. I enjoyed talking to Chip and took in every word of advice and methods of training he spoke about with respect to mechanics of running and the body. Smart dude that Chip. He seems to be able to repeat all that he reads.

Off to Rancho for some beer and Mexican food! Ohhhhh that beer oh and of course that food. Michelle also stopped by and she too is getting ready for a 100 miler like Joe Crawford next weekend. Joe will be attempting his first 100 miler and Michelle will be attempting her first slow and methodical 100 miler to be a fast 100 miler. Chip is pacing Joe for his race and Michelle is trying to find a pacer.

I too will be at the BR 100 miler! Oh well, I will not run it this year, but I will be working plenty of aid stations. I cant wait to see the race start and while I will be envious I will be supportive (bastards! He He Hee) . I have three aid stations I am working during the race. Maria, Tanya and Lloyd! I will figure out which ones. Here I come. I am taking a break from softball as Molly has a weekend off finally!

Good luck Nick, Kim, Mark and all. You will do great!

So, the three miles! I ran 3 miles with out stopping and I feel better now than I did before. I am happy with this run and the bike swim and walks with the weights have been great. I think I am ready to go run on the local bike trail where some punks beat up a 70 year old man and mugged him. He is back in the hospital once again due to his injuries.

This type of assault was of the second type this week at the same section. I do not wish ill harm to anyone, but this is the type of situation that I wish I would happen out of the woods upon from a pee break. Today someone would have been in jail. Senseless! That is a terrible situation and that 70 year old man needed not to have been hurt like that. It is not like he is on the trail with thousands of dollars! DUH

Criminals are not that smart or they would not have committed the crime. After working in the prison system for 17 years I was never more happy to find a new job with a different agency. Some people may think that individuals that work in a prison system have a distorted focus on life, but reality is, we just see things much more clearer. How could we possibly be compared with criminal minds? That would just be ignorant! Just like the criminals that hurt that 70 year old man.

Forward Moving

2009-07-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

I have been able to get lap swims, bike rides, walks, weights and runs in all this week. I ran the 5 days this week with warm up walks alternating run walks each mile. I had 1 day with a 1.5 mile run and today a 2 mile run. Nothing fast and still very deliberate feet placement, but all on trail with exception this morning I went to meet the Mansfield Run club for 2 miles.

Bob and Mayo ran with me on my short and slow run today. Mayo has been bitten by the ultra running bug! Good for him. Bob said he has close to 300 people receiving the Mansfield Area YMCA Road Runners Club news letter.

I saw the Dr Friday and he said that he does not want to see me in the office any longer. He said that he has no restrictions on me and to continue doing what does not cause the pain. We will still need to wait and see about the current muscle loss and how it goes over time. I got a kick out of him when I said I was running short runs. He said "oh what is that 20 miles?"

I will am still planning on the "Running with Scissors" race in October as my return race to ultra running. I will see how progression goes. I have a few other races that I am planning but the race schedule will be shorter in years to come and approach will be much different.

Trail Running, Who Me?

2009-07-19T18:05:00.000-07:00

I had a GREAT time this weekend. It started with a little trip to Lake Erie to visit my buddy Dave and his boat. I had a hard time deciding which I missed more. LOL Just kidding Dave. But I do want my boat back!

I drove over Saturday morning over to the Buckeye Trail 50K and worked at the Pine Lane Aid Station. I was so impressed with the speed that the front three came into and ran out of the aid station. They came in at a dead sprint grabbed a handful of food water and ran right back out. 3-5 seconds max. Amazing! I am normally grazing. LOL Vince once again had great volunteers (including me LOL) and pulled off a wonderful race!.

Today, I got up (5:00 am) and volunteered at the Mid Ohio Super Bike Weekend. Pit Row passes for 4 hours of work! I had a blast and oh my what balls the guys and girls have riding those things. There was also a few other perks of the job.

This evening I went to my local park for 4 miles of trail work. I did my stretch a 1 mile warm up walk and then 1 mile jog (13:48) .50 mile hike 1 mile jog (13:23) and a .50 mile cool down. I loved it! I am sure I did not put a few great points in on this weekend. I had the absolute best time this weekend it was GREAT!

I ran on trail today!

2009-07-15T20:26:00.000-07:00

Ok Ok Ok hold your cheers and applause. We are not healed yet. I went to the park. I did my .50 mile warm up walk after stretching. I then jogged ever so slowly .25 mile before settling back into another fast pace walk and then back to the .25 mile jog. I finished with a 2 mile walk.

I felt good and all my pains were body parts not associated with the back surgery. The less than responsive calf muscle was noticeable but manageable and still trying to recover. I figure the numbness I still have can be a benefit with blisters. LOL I felt great and feel great! But slow and steady I go. This will be the extent of running for now and when I repeat.

I am working with the weights, swims, bikes, walks, jogs, and stretching. Plenty of time, plenty of time.

Best thing was: I ran on trail and even sweating!

Next week slow walk run.

2009-07-11T06:02:00.000-07:00

I have been walking and stretching. More stretching in the past week. I have started strength training for what I can do on the core and upper body. I am also looking at working on my body some. I at one time lifted weights and was pretty sculpted with good chest abs and arms. I at one time had some good muscle definition and respond well to weight training. I will be doing that too.

I will be starting a walk run method this Thursday with more focus on the walk for the next two weeks. I am planning on going to Mohican and a local trail in Lexington for as much exposure to trail.

I had a good walk this past Thursday with the Mansfield run club. Nice to see everyone. Sad to see them take off on the trail for a run. When your standing there watching everyone take off and your alone... it was tough but very eye opening. It is ok to be alone.

I will also be implementing cross training. Working on a few other things in life and I have a few races on my plan. Just never know where you will see me. Ha. I am very excited about slowing the running down. I had it on my mind before the injury thinking that I could reduce some miles. I think that implementation of cross training will help. Swim bike run. I have Run with scissors on my race plan October 25th. Entry goes in this week.

Oh I lost 4 lbs this past week down to 192.

Break time

2009-06-30T20:29:00.000-07:00

Well, I will be working on some recovery items over the next few months and will have my normal meaningless postings about a sidewalk crack or how I found some building interesting. LOL.

I am working hard and will be holding off on postings for a while to focus on a few things I need to do. I will post any huge life changes, but for now, I will be planning on breaking until September 7th or 8th Umstead 100 mile registration day or until November 1st Forget the PR registration opens.

I will share this hint: I am optimistic that in September Umstead 100 miler and I will have a registration date for a spring 2010 race. I will wait to see my progression. I have 25% numbness still in the left foot and leg with 60% muscle control. I have a few hills to climb and my 4 miles daily will help to start, then swimming, biking and late 2009 early 2010 some running to not exceed 40 mile weeks in the future. We will wait to see how it goes as time heals all.

But rest assured I will be harassing all of you on your blogs and telling you your not running enough. LOL My e-mail is Rob1770@msn.com I will see many of you out there at races as i will be working as a full time aid station worker for all you crazy runners. And MOST of you are CRAZY. LOL Nick, ready to brew a batch?

On and On

2009-06-30T05:59:00.000-07:00

I just came back from dropping my car off at the local dealer for some service. I had a 2.5 mile walk to get back to the house. I walked by the local historical Big 4 rail road depot. Recently I looked at a picture of the depot, where the locals had gathered awaiting Eisenhower to show up and deliver a campaign speech.

In the picture, the photographer captured a moment in time. The faces, the excitement, the cloths people were wearing, the youth and the age of those in the picture. Fast forward, the young are now old and the old are now dead. The place where the photograph was taken is now where an overpass is located, buildings in the background have been torn down, modified or new ones added.

The depot is a symbol of progression to me in may different ways. Sure the obvious is that it moved so many people via the rail system but also serves as a reminder of age and how things get old, taken for granted, left for newer and faster things. In 2000 the depot had a face lift with lots of money used to fix it up. Now it is in need of repair and is looking a little worse for ware. So often are many things in life. The depot looks bad... Today's problems are going to be yesterdays issues replaced with new problems as the cycle continues...

I am in my last week before I return to work. The Friday before Mohican I had the Dr return me to full duty knowing I had a few weeks of vacation previously set. I am ready to get back to some part of normalises. While I have had slight improvement over the last two weeks I am going go to the YMCA to arrange my membership so I can start phase two of the recovery process. I have gained some of my weight back and I am looking forward to being active. Walking does not get the heart beat going real high. I suppose I will eventually work on calorie reduction. Hmmm That sucks! But I guess I am getting a face lift right now like the depot did in 2000. I could use a little tummy work too. LOL (symbolic)

I am going to set my swim and walk schedule and wait for when the Dr tells me I can work on my core. I will work through that progression and hope to get a slow run started into the training say late 2009 or early 2010.

Hmmmm Running

2009-06-29T12:59:00.000-07:00

Still not running but I sure would like to run 100 miles right now. LOL

Enjoying the beach

2009-06-23T11:11:00.000-07:00

I am at the beach drinking eating and thinking..... Oh so tough, mostly the thinking part. I have the eating and drinking part down pat!

Less than a year to go for Mohican 100 miler. I will need to finish next year and the following 9 to get my 1000 mile buckle in the 30th anniversary.

Mohican 100 Mile Race Crew/Spectator Report

2009-06-21T12:49:00.000-07:00

I went Friday evening to the pre race dinner/meeting for the Mohican 100. While it was bitter sweet, I was so impressed with the support and well wishes for me and a quick recovery. Great people "we runners".

I got to chat with so many people but had to leave when Leo started the course trail markings as I just felt I needed to leave...

Saturday morning, I slept in nice and comfy until 6:30 am. I was going to catch a ride over to check out the race with my buddy Tony. Now, I guess it is only fair to assure you that Tony and I prepared for this the evening before by drinking until 1am. Then I had to chat with Brian and have a beer over the phone. It takes and hour from Galion to Mo.

Off to Mohican Tony and I went with a initial check on the status of who the leaders of the race was for both Male and Female. We continued to utilize our knowledge of short cuts and the course layout to be in many locations harassing the runners with things like "hey you look great" or "Nice Job".

We were very impressed with the tight race that was forming with Michelle , Terri Lemke (Local Great Runners and friends) and a few other ultra runner ladies Ellen, Jenny Chow, and Mary. The men were just flipping fast with Bradley Mongold, Jay Smithberger (2008 winner), Mark Tanaka, Wyatt Hornsby Juston Wickam, Regis Shivers to name a few all with in reach respectively.

We also were checking on status of Kim, Nick, Mike, Don, Lucas (who's blog I can not get to work) and the ever elusive CLARA (WHO I DID NOT GET TO MEET!) Finally, Kevin Martin who finished 5th place and ran his first 100 miler and in my opinion was was freaking awesome!

I went to see the Mansfield Road Runners Club at Hickory Ridge Aid Station Crew A. We visited and watched the runners continuing to pass. The women were all with in 5 Min of each other most of the race. We went to the Grist Mill to see the runners there and to check on Michelle who was leading the race at this time. The Grist Mill wanted to charge $1 for each person that entered the mill where the aid station was located at. I will try to be politically correct because I understand that the Mill is nice enough to permit the race to come there and to utilize the facility. That $1 was tackey

BUT

I would never permit my runners to be sent to a location that is listed as crew access for families and then permit the families to be charged. $1 while is incidental and I understand the Mills point. The Race Director has the responsibility to move the location of that aid station, to say the shelter that at the State Park? (you know where the Forget the PR started from.) With minimal work if provided in well advanced and pre-planned and coordinated method to Don Baun, I am sure he could find a solution for minimal impact for distance.

OR

The race should have paid a fee for use if money had to be changed hands and not the families....

Tony and I did not go in because "we wer'nt paying no fricken dollar". We went on home to Galion. Tony was driving his truck in some type of parade that he did not want to disclose. Some where in there we went to get breakfast. MMMM Doughnuts.

I returned back to Mohican as I had intended on giving my back a rest but I was just full of Mohican excitement and had to get right back so as I did not miss any action. I do not have the figures to know how many runners fell victim to heat and all but runners were dropping like flies and it appears that this will be a bad year for Mohican 100. I had heard some rumblings of some marking issues as well. I have no first hand experience so I do not know the details.

I ended up working with Mark Lemke following Terri Lemke and Michelle as both were having some problems and some bad words from one of them about DNF. Michelle was having some problems, but I will refer to her blog. I knew I was going to to get my ass in trouble but we kept her going. Scott got called in came in and met Michelle to run with her at the 74 mile point while Don, who had a shortened race day, helped me with talking some ultra tough sense into Michelle. She said she was going to stop with 13 hours left to complete 26 miles. No, No, No. I have had that Mohican Monkey on my back and I was going to help fight that bastard. So bring on the consequences.

I tore the bottom of Michelle's race number where there is a slip that the aid station captains need to have when a runner quits a race. She would not need it so I took it. The three of us got her walking (staggering) to the Grist Mill with Scott. We kept leap frogging and Michelle finished her race 28 hours and 4 min in I think 7th place female.

I got to mix is up while waiting for Scott and Michelle to make it to the next section. Mark and I kept talking strategy as Terri was running so great and was 10 min behind the first place female at the Bridle Station with 17 miles to go. She had great pacers and was doing so many things just perfect for a first 100 miler! I had fun with her as she was sitting there eating noodles with 17 miles left and the first place woman 10 min in front of her. I said "Terri, cant you eat those noodles and walk? She said "yes" I said "well get out of here" and away she went. 2nd Place female!

I got to see Gabe every stop as he was hobbling but determined that he was going to finish (and he did). I was getting to see Juston and Regis ,man oh man I had so much fun seeing all of them this really lifted my spirits! Regis and others even took time out of their race to stop and shake my hand and wish me the best. Regis said he is thinking of me during his run.

Now, I think that all of you know what Mohican means to me and that it was tough not being able to run this year. I had an event occur during Mohcian 100 that I feel was, is and will always be even more important to me that when I receive my Mohican 100 mile buckle. When I went back up to Hickory Ridge Crew B was working and Joe Crawford and his wife was there.

I met Joe who is a Marine that was entered in my Mohican 50K Forget the PR race in April. I learned of his planned deployment to Afghanistan and how it was going to occur after the April race. Joe and I got to run together training and shared my love for my country and how much I appreciated that he is leaving his family to be deployed to protect my family and yours. I offered to help in any way that I could. I take pride in thanking service members in airports as I appreciate them!

Joe took time out of his duties to arrange to have The United States of America Flag flown on Memorial Day aboard a Ohio Air National Guard C-130 H aircraft on a combat mission over Afghanistan in support of the U.S. led war against terrorism. "Operation Enduring Freedom" and was presented to Rob Powell and Family. The American Flag folded and presented with a certificate signed by the flight crew.

That just proves how great Joe and his family is and I trust that Joe knows how much I respected his gift to me. It makes Mohican and Hickory Ridge mean that much more to me for life. Thanks Joe! I am looking forward to the run!

Good thing I did not run the race, imagine the length of that report.

Mohican Weekend

2009-06-17T12:38:00.000-07:00

Well it is here, Mohican 100 time once again. All these great athletes are getting ready to run 100 miles. I wish that I could give it a run but I have a few additional things going on right now. I am approaching 1 month with out running. Not too bad. I can not wait to be cleared this Friday for starting some activities like swimming and biking.

I am going to go down to Mohican Friday for a bit to see some Mo runners wish them luck and come on back home. I hope to then go back sometime Saturday morning around 8am with my buddy Tony. I hope to be in shape enough to stay until 2 or so before going home for more relaxing. I will try to go back and work with the Mansfield Run Club Saturday afternoon before I make it back home. See what the body can handle. Felling better each day.

I am leaving for Myrtle Beach Monday Amy, Molly and one of her friends will be at my Mom's beach house until next week or next weekend. Who knows we will come back when we feel like it.

Good luck to you Mo runners I will be cheering you all on!

4 miles

2009-06-10T20:52:00.000-07:00

I woke this morning wishing that I was getting up and going to work. I had planned to take a month off work. I was taking two weeks vacation and two weeks COST SAVINGS DAYS as mandated to save money. As a state employee we are doing all we can to save money. Each employee is taking 10 days off with out pay to help. I thought it would be great to have 1 month off. Of course some of this back stuff came up. Now it is 1 and 1/2 month off... Oh boy. I am way too hyperactive for this.

Any how, I had my coffee sitting on my porch watching the birds. Then I was off for a two mile walk. This evening I followed up with two more miles walking. Nice and easy deliberate in each step. Feeling real good but no rush.

Go Mohican runners I am way looking forward to seeing you all do so well!

Ultra Running

2009-06-10T07:40:00.000-07:00

I have received some great e-mails this week from some ultra runners who have had the same surgery that I have. They explained to me their ability to recover from this surgery and to be able to run in the future. While Mohican 100 will continue without me this year I will be ok with this. A bit more once it is over.

I am always amazed at attitudes and expectations of people. Normally, I find that attitudes and expectations of runners are good because they think with clear thoughts and see the big picture and do not set expectations higher and faster than what is obtainable. I am glad that my friends have helped me with clear attitudes and expectations to help me through this situation. When I arrive where I need to be at in this next year I will be there with my friends.

I am going out for my walk. Each day I am experiencing less pain, more muscle control and less numbness.