Philadelphia Marathon Race Report

I had very low expectations for this race. 1st I have not run over 14 miles while training for this and that was just last week. Several things got in the way of my long runs so I didnt have high hopes. 2nd philly has a bad rap and though the course would not be very nice. To my surprise the course was great. I learned and saw so much of the city and was very surprised and happy. I had set a goal time of 5:30 but the course limit is 7 hours and that is really what I expected.

My wife is from Philly and we had a great weekend with family prior to the run. Farica, Braeden and I went to the Expo on Friday and lucky for us they had a huge kids zone with games, face painted, ballon animals, Jump houses etc. Brae had a blast and Farica was excited because I didnt buy anything. We went to reading terminal and had Bassets Ice cream after words. I did the standard carb loading friday and sat night.

Sunday morning wake up was 4am and was out the door at 4:30. I had a 45 minute drive from where we were staying and found a parking lot right across the street from race area. I met and talked with serveral people in my coral which I got to at 6 for a 7 start time. The race started alittle late but thats ok. The weather was cool in the 30's but quickly warmed up.

We started with the Rocky Theme song which made me laugh. From that point on it was all down hill. I got a side stich right of the bat and for the first time some bad shin pain. I worked that out over the 1st 2 miles. I kept a 12:30 pace which would have me finish at 5:27. The course winded through the city and several historical places and a few universities. The course was great!

I pushed through several changing problems with cramping, stomach issues, knee pain, no glide etc but managed to keep my pace. Then the hills started around mile 9 and kicked me in the butt. I knew I wasnt prepared for another17 miles so I changed the goal to just finish the half.

I did finish the half although not pretty and am very happy with that. I had a crazy month and just need to get back on track.

I will say Philly puts on a great Marathon and the first half of the course was great with excellent support. I will go back and try it again.

Rehobeth Beach is next followed by Disney. The Good news is I am right on track with training for that.

The best news of the day was when I looked at the results it counted my time as the marathon finish time with a 6:37 mile and that means I qualified for BOSTON today LOL



2012
Jan 6th, 7th, 8th Disney World Marathon Dopey Challenge Finisher (42.5 miles)
March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04:00)
Sept 9th - Heroes Run Annapolis, Md (32:26)
Oct 21st - Blue-Grey Half Marathon, Gettysburg Maryland (2:35:47)
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon (2:53:00-13.1)
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.

2013
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3
Febuary 2nd - Fight for Air Stair climb. Boston, Ma
March 16th/17th Shamrock Marathon Whale Challange. 8k and 26.2
April 26th/27th - AOR #2 Gettysburg to DC
May 19th - Columbia (Md) Tri
June 23rd - Rev3 70.3 Williamsburg, Va
July TBD
Aug 23-24th - 24 Hours of Booty, Columbia Md
Sept 8th IRONMAN WISCONSIN
Oct Rev3 Ulman Cancer Fund HalfFull

Race report

Finally I get to write a race report.

Today was the Gettysburg Blue Grey Half Marathon and a great fall day for a race. I will say the North won and not only did I get a super medal but I got a great coffee mug as a bonus prize.

I started the day with my normal routine with coffee and as usuall did not eat breakfast. A bad habit that I must learn to break. Erin (AFD FF/PM) and I drove the 40 minutes to the race site. It was a windy and cold 40 degrees but not to bad for this Chicago Boy. We picked up our race packets and had 90 minutes to the start of the race. We talk with some other runners and just relaxed. Pretty lame start to the race, some how I managed to explode a gel pack all over my shirt, shorts and hands in addition to poking a hole in a water bottle that spilled all over me. I have no idea how I did this but I did.

The race was on rolling hill country on back roads through Pa farmland and the color change was in peak bloom. This by far was the most scenic race I have done and imagined myself on that page in Runners World that has really cool scenic run pictures. I have been sick for a couple weeks and have not run in 5 days, and had 4 days of Antibiotics. I had no goal for this race other than to servive and finish. Paceor time I didnt care.

the weather at the start of the race was nice, the sun was bright and started to warm things up and the wind had died down. I had a great start with a 31 minute 5k but I knew I was in trouble because my lungs were burning, my nose was running faster than me and the lung butter was massive. Mile 4 I took of my running jacket and the temp was perfect. I was able to maintain my pace through mile 6 and mile 7 was a turning point. My breathing started getting worse, I now had a cough and the wheezing started. I backed off a little but was still making good time. I had a brief thought that I could break 2:30.

I miked water with gatoraid  for fluids and by mile 8 my goal wasmake from water stop to water stop. Mile 9.5 is where it got worse and I am sure people behind me ( the few that were) were thinking bad thoughts about me as I have left a 9 mile sputum trail  nice thick yellow stuff.

Amazingly at 9.5 I had 50 minutes to break 2:30 and PR this event. The wheels came off at 10 (1:55) and my breathing was in the toilet and should have stopped but this jerk on the course had gotten to me and I coulnt. He had been using me as a pacer and was being an ass about it. As I would catch up he would sprint ahead, look behind him for me and than take off again. He would change sides of the road to be next to me and spent his whole race doing this. I know in his mind his goal was to beat the fat guy.

The next mile this continued and I really got pissed and I forgot about my breathing and respiratory issues. In my mind the race is over at mile 11 and anybody can push out 2 miles. So at mile 11.5 I caught up to him looked at him smiled and said "see ya!" the last thing I heard him say was "fuck."
I pushed through to the end and was greated by my son and wife. All the pain went away with family hugs and another race completed.

I have some work to do but over all I am very happy.



2012
March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
Sept 9th - Heroes Run Annapolis, Md (32:26)
Oct 21st - Blue-Grey Half Marathon, Gettysburg Maryland (2:35:47)
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.

2013
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3
Febuary 2nd - Fight for Air Stair climb. Boston, Ma
March 16th/17th Shamrock Marathon Whale Challange. 8k and 26.2
April 26th/27th - AOR #2 Gettysburg to DC
May 19th - Columbia (Md) Tri
June 23rd - Rev3 70.3 Williamsburg, Va
July TBD
Aug 23-24th - 24 Hours of Booty, Columbia Md
Sept 8th IRONMAN WISCONSIN
Oct Rev3 Ulman Cancer Fund HalfFull

Race week!

Finally it is race week! I get to finally stop reading other peoples race reports and finally write one of my own. This sunday I will be returning to Gettysburg to run the 2nd Blue-Gray Half Marathon. The fun twist of this race is you have to pick a side (blue or grey, gettysburg, get it) and at the end of the race they add up the total times of each side and declare a winner and the runners of the winning side get extra bling! I am a chicago boy so I will be running for the blue and running with me will be my friend Erin and being from the volunteer state she will be running for the grey.

I am psyched to be at this time of year when I usually run my races. The weather has cooled off and it is a pleasure to get outside and run.

As you can see below is my calander as it stands as of today and if you can do the math it is one event a month for the next year! That is and was my goal. There is a little event next sept but I will talk about that little beauty next month.

I havent figured out my scheduled milage for the rest of the year but I am pretty sure I will break 1000 miles this year. Next year my goals are to swim 200 miles, Bike 2500 and run 1200. Very lofty goals but why start the year with a small goal.

It will be a tremendous effort to accomplish this but I have great mentors, great friends and an amazing supportive wife and with them standing beside me I can not fail.

So let the journey begin!


2012
March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
Sept 9th - Heroes Run Annapolis, Md (32:26)
Oct 21st - Blue-Grey Half Marathon, Gettysburg Maryland
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.

2013
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3
Febuary 2nd - Fight for Air Stair climb. Boston, Ma
March 16th/17th Shamrock Marathon Whale Challange. 8k and 26.2
April 26th/27th - AOR #2 Gettysburg to DC
May 19th - Columbia (Md) Tri
June 23rd - Rev3 70.3 Williamsburg, Va
July TBD
Aug 23-24th - 24 Hours of Booty, Columbia Md
Sept 8th IRONMAN WISCONSIN
Oct Rev3 Ulman Cancer Fund HalfFull

Been a while

Wow! It sure has been a  while since Ive updated this blog. I am back on track and thought I would just update on whats been going on.

The Team Firefighter 90 day challenge is in full swing now. We are just over 3 weeks in and at my third weigh in I was 9 pounds down. I am still maintaining a plant based diet although I do fall off the wagon at times. I find it hardest, as I always have at the firehouse. My crew is supper supportive but there is just to many temptations.

I recently ran the 9-11 heroes run 5k in Annapolis. Except for a very poor speech by one person, it was a great day. Farica and Braeden weent to the race and it was the first time for each of them at a race of mine. The on duty crew from my station was there as well. It was a very moving day and I was very honored to be a part of it. It was a little warm and the course will hilly but to my surprise I had my best time to date with a 10:26 average for a 5k time of 32:26. It was so special to cross the finish line with Braeden and Farica waiting.

I have been running for a couple years now and have always avoided hills and the especially the Naval Academy Bridge. I dont know why but for some reason the always seemed impossible to me. Yesterday after work I decided to take it on. I set up a 5 mile run and crossed the bridge twice! It was not hard at all and I just laughed at myself for avoiding it for so long. I am adding alot more hill work into my training and I will answer why at another time.

Training is in full swing as my fall race season is just a few weeks away. I added a another half and ready to get it on. I read so many race reports I just want to finally right my own.


Calander

2012
March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
Sept 9th - Heroes Run Annapolis, Md (32:26)
Oct 21st - Blue-Grey Half Marathon, Gettysburg Maryland
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.

2013
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3
Febuary 2nd - Fight for Air Stair climb. Boston, Ma
March 16th/17th Shamrock Marathon Whale Challange. 8k and 26.2
April 26th/27th - AOR #2 Gettysburg to DC
May 19th - Columbia (Md) Tri
Aug 23-24th - 24 Hours of Booty, Columbia Md
June 23rd - Rev3 70.3 Williamsburg, Va
Sept  Its a surpise!

Post #1 Team Firefighter 90 day challenge

http://teamfirefighter.blogspot.com/2012/09/team-firefighter-90-day-challenge-kick.html

Here we go again! I am back on another weight loss challenge. I am tired of this life long struggle and hoping in combination with my running, plant based diet, and the tremendous support of TF I will finally beat this.

If you dont know I am a member of Team Firefighter. The ling to our team block is attached. TF is a group of male and female firefighters across the country who strive to promote health and fitness in the fire service through Sports. ie running and tri's. We all know what the new fire service is and part of that is the leading cause of death is cardiovasicular. I will argue that some of this is due to cyanide but this is not the forum for that but the truth is we are out of shape. Of course "we" is a very general term but we have all seen the guys the make me look thin doing the job.

I learned how tough it is last night on a CO call that reguried me to gear and pack up for an extended amount of time. It was Hot, and it was humid and I was beat. No hard work, no fire nothing taxing. Just venting and monitoring. I have run 4 marathons, run 4-6 days a week and was beat. With my gear and pack on I weigh over 300 pounds. That my friends is no good.

So our challenge stated on Sept 1st. I tipped the scale at 255. I weighed 283 when I went plant based, lost 40 pounds with that and lost focus. So 4 days in I am 100% plant strong with a new vigor and comittment to a plant based diet. I feel great, already my mood has changed and I am sleeping better. I am hitting my race season and as you can see it is a long one.

I posted a shirtless picture on the team blog and it is the most embarrassing thing I have ever done and even worse it is now public. I am focused. I am determined and with the great brother and sisters of Team Firefighter I will stand on the mountian top and lead by example to improving our health and fitness so we can enjoy life after our career and much as we do live the dream everyday.

Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
Sept 9th - Heroes Run Annapolis, Md
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3
Febuary 2nd - Fight for Air Stair climb. Boston, Ma
March 16th/17th Shamrock Marathon Whale Challange. 8k and 26.2
April 26th/27th - AOR #2 Gettysburg to DC
May 19th - Columbia (Md) Tri
Aug (tbd) - 24 Hours of Booty Columbia Md
June 23rd - Rev3 70.3 Williamsburg, Va
Oct 2013 Beach to Battleship 70.3
Jan 2014 Bone Island Full Distance Tri 140.6

A new day

Today is a new day. For the last 3 weeks my diet has gone to shit. Eight days at the beach and laziness at the firehouse has taken its toll. I fell like a truck hit me. I have a constent headache. I dont sleep well, just in a sour mood. I can say without a doubt it is because I have strayed from my plant based diet. Thankfully Team Firefighter is having a 90 weightloss challenge and I am taking part. The disipline and plants start again today. With Happy Herbivore, Eng 2, and FOK in hand I will get back on track and feeling like a person again.

As part of the challenge I posted a shirtless picture and my measurements on our team page. This single act is possibly the most embarrassing thing I have every done. I will use it as my motivation and hopes that positive results will inspire others to take that first step to improve their health and change of lifestyle. Farica is right by my side and will be plant based with me for all our meals at home so I dont have to cook different meals for each of us and to make this easier for me. Together we will continue to improve our health and be an example to Braeden so he will never have these struggles.

As you can see I have have added ore events to my calander and have made Disney My A race. I am setting a time goal for this of 5:00- 5:15 for the race. My running has continued and am super psyched for fall running.

I am starting rehab this week for my neck and shoulder and that only means I can get back in the pool and bike and get back on track so I can finally enter the world of triatlons. My first was sposed to be this weekend and sad that I wont be able to do it. That is ok because I will continue to fight another day. I wish all my TNT family a great race at Nations. You have trained well and I have no doubt you will finish the race.





March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
Sept 9th - Heroes Run Annapolis, Md
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3
Febuary 2nd - Fight for Air Stair climb. Boston, Ma
March 16th/17th Shamrock Marathon Whale Challange. 8k and 26.2
April 26th/27th - AOR #2 Gettysburg to DC
May 19th - Columbia (Md) Tri
Aug (tbd) - 24 Hours of Booty Columbia Md
June 23rd - Rev3 70.3 Williamsburg, Va
Oct 2013 Beach to Battleship 70.3
Jan 2014 Bone Island Full Distance Tri 140.6
(and What ever else I can add on)

one step back, 140 miles further.

Lets see if I still remember how to write. It has been a while and alot has happened. If you follow my calander you can see some key events are gone and alot more events have been added.

I finally have an answer to my shoulder injury and I was very surprised to figure out what it was in some ways and others not to much. So it turns out I have 2 injuries, 1 is the neck and 1 is the shoulder. My shoulder injury is called Impingement syndrome, there are 3 levels of this and luckily I am in the middle and do not need surgery just 4-6 weeks of rehab. The second injury whuch was a surprise is a compression of c5 - c7 causing a pinched nerve which is the reason my arm is always numb and the extreme shoulder blade pain. This also requires some meds for a week and rehab which will be done together with the shoulder. So with great news comes the bad news and since I have not swam in a month and cant swim for another month I have scratched Nations. I am still fundraising for it so please consider a donation. Even though my Tri is done the fight for a cure continues

http://pages.teamintraining.org/md/nattri12/ddushkin

I also am going to scratch Marine Corps Marathon. I was scheduled to run 4 marathon in 4 months  with just 2 weeks between the 1st/2nd and 3 weeks between the 2nd/3rd. So that is done. My goal is to continue racing and not injur or wipe myself out before it even starts.So MCM is gone, Philly is a half and Disney becomes my A race with a goal time of 5 hours and Rehobeth is a tune up to see where I am at 5 weeks from Disney.

There are tons of new events and as you can see my focus for next year is Triathlons. I am super excited to get back in the pool, getting on the bike for some real distance and finally make the transition to triathlete from runner.

So enough typing for now, Time to hit the pavement.



Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
Sept 9th - Heroes Run Annapolis, Md
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3
Febuary 2nd - Fight for Air Stair climb. Boston, Ma
March 16th/17th Shamrock Marathon Whale Challange. 8k and 26.2
April 26th/27th - AOR #2 Gettysburg to DC
May 19th - Columbia (Md) Tri
June 23rd - Rev3 70.3 Williamsburg, Va
Oct 2013 Beach to Battleship 70.3
Jan 2014 Bone Island Full Distance Tri 140.6
(and What ever else I can add on)

where to start

It has been so long I dont even know where to start. No thats not right. I do.

I will start with a huge THANK YOU to all of you for so much support over the last 2 weeks. I am Happy to say all things considered my dad is doing very well and I am returning to Maryland. I am thankful I was able to be there for him. As of now he will not need any further treatments just follow up exams. He will have ups and downs but for now he will continue to return to himself and that is what matters.

I also want to Thank all of my Team in Training family For all of your dedication, time and effort you all put in to finding a cure. I, as everyone who is affected by Cancer are grateful. I am proud to call you all Teammates but more important Family.

I am happy to say while I was back homeI was able to continue training and had the great pleasure of running on the Lake shore Trail. Lake shore Trail follows Lake Shore Drive in Chicago and is great for the heart, mind and soul. I was going to the ICU every morning so I needed to get my runs in early. It was truly beautiful to run alon Lake Michigan with the sun rising and the Chicago Skyline in front of me. It wont happen but it is enough for me to want to move back.

I dont have anything to report re swimming and biking as that is because they both have come to a halt.I am dealing with a very painful, unknown shoulder injury. I havemy thoughts as what it is but will see a shoulder specialist next week. Shoulders are very common injuries among firefighters and Paramedics and I think going from 0 to 2 mile swims in 7 weeks was the straw that broke the camels back. I am trying not to worry about it and have stopped the swimming and biking to prevent further injury if the damage is not already done.

I have always had the attitude that the next race is more important. I am ok missing one but dont want to miss them all. I am super psyched for my upcoming Marathons and that is what I will concentrate on. Plus I have 2 fancy pairs of running shoes that I need to break in.

So I will keep you all updated buy again I thank everyone for their overwhelming support.


2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

The other day I heard the news my Honored Teammate passed away from her battle with Leukemia. I was deeply saddened to hear the news and my commitment to the fight against Cancer is stronger than ever. Sarah was my Second Teammate to lose their battle this year. Earlier Joey passed away at the age of 12 after the bravest battle I have ever seen. My thoughts and prayers are with both families and every step I run will be in your Honor and Memory.  Next week I will travel home to chicago to help my father who will begin his battle. I hope and pray for him and will be fighting by his side every step of the way.

 

http://pages.teamintraining.org/md/nattri12/ddushkin. Please help me continue the fight against Cancer and make a donation to the leukemia and lymphoma society

 

I Have finished another excellent week of training although today was a tough day after a sleepless night at the fire house. I will start again strong tomorrow with a 3200 meter swim and 2 hour ride. I have a long, tough week ahead as this is the 3rd week and the current buildup phase and will have a rest week coming up. I still will train although the milage and time will be less.

 

I mentioned my joining of Team Firefighter and have included the link to the team blog where you can learn about the Team, its members and Team mission.

 

http://teamfirefighter.blogspot.com/

 

I wish everyone a wonderful week ahead.

Team Firefighter

Another good week almost in the books. I will finish out the week just about 50 miles and still filling strong. I did have a poor long run this week. I chose to run a new route with a 14 mile out and back. Bad choice! It was hot but not to bad, no shade and I under estimated the hills. They were long and with just enough incline that I really had to work getting up them. My legs were and are hurting like never before. With the added swimming and biking and longer runs early in the season my legs are taking a beating. I managed 10 out of the 14 miles and happy with that. I am on pace with the TNT team and have no worries. They have not failed a runner and Kerri has me ahead of the game. I am still learning this endurance athlete game and still working on nutrition as a plant based eater and need to work better on my post training recovery.  Making all a routine is just as hard as the training.

Ironman Lake Placid is Coming up and for some reason that specific event keeps poping in my mind. The olympics there were very influential to me as a kid and as always been a very special place to me. I am going to try my hardest to get into this event for 2013.

I am proud to announce that I have become a member of Team Firefighter. Team Firefighter is a coed mix of Firefighter from all over the county who are dedicated to promoting Health, Wellness, and Fitness in the fire service through sports and endurance events. It is an amazing group of people and am proud to be a part of them and continue to inspire others.

I am getting nervous as Nations is 57 days away and Disney is 180 days away. with 3 marathons in between.

I have not failed before and dont plan on it anytime soon

http://pages.teamintraining.org/md/nattri12/ddushkin

2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
June 16th- Baltimore 10 Miler
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

Back in the game!

http://pages.teamintraining.org/md/nattri12/ddushkin

Well this has been a productive week despite the heat! Last week my milage was 0 due to back issues and happy to say this week my milage tops 60! I was inside on the trainer and treadmill more than I like but safety and injury prevention is paramont.

I reached to milestones this week as well. I swam a total of 2 miles during my first swim session of the week through the many drills and sets planned by Kerri. My second swim session I swam 1 mile straight no breaks. those were 2 huge goals met and my next swim goal is to swim a straight 2 miler.

I am back to a plant based diet full time and although I am very happy to have lost 5 pounds I dont think I am eating right for the amount of exercise I am doing. I am continuing to research the diets of Dave Scott and Brendan Brazier. Both profession Triathletes who are plant based.

Biking is coming along well and havent reached any big milage yet. I am still at about 15 to 25 miles per session but I know that will change soon.

Running is going well despite the heat and I am up to 13 miles now on my long runs and that also will increase. I am getting into the prime of my training season and I am feeling good and confident.

I have made the huge step to confirm my place in the Nations Tri. I made my recommitment to Team in Training. I have attached my link to my fundraising page and ask if you please make a donation if you can.

recently Cancer has struck my family again. Another diagnosis of Lung Cancer. The 3rd time this has happened. My young friend Joey recently passed away at the age of 12 after a 5 year battle. My honored Teammate Erin is fighting Cancer for the 4th time and she is just in her 20s. Sarah and local Annapolis Senior in HS is at St Judes makeing an epic battle against Cancer.

I hope and pray for them everyday and will not continue my fight for them till there is a cure and they can have a worry free day.

http://pages.teamintraining.org/md/nattri12/ddushkin

set backs

There is not a time while training for an endurance event that there wont be a set back or two. This is my week. I started the week off with my families 1st trip to OC and we had a blast. Sometime during the trip I must have tweeked my back and by the time friday came along it was difficulty to move.

After 15 plus years working in kitchens and 12 years in the fire service has taken its toll on my back not to mention a weak core.. It is not difficult for a little thing to turn big. I have been injury free for 2 years and very thankful for that. That is due to amazing coaching and great teachers.

I have missed this weeks training with the last of the spasms being yesterday. I spent the last couple days resting, stretching, and taking anti inflammatory meds. I am feeling better today and will get back into the swing with some swimming tonight and a couple days of lite running 4 and 6 miles and back to the bike on wed. I am going to shoot for a 30 and 35 mile rides this week with another 2-3 pool sessions and a long run of 13 miles.

Races are just a 2 months away and if I am going to have a set back I am glad it happened early in the season.




2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
June 16th- Baltimore 10 Miler
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

Month 2

Nations 83 days,
Maraine Corps 131 days

Today is the start of month #2, Hard to believe that just a couple weeks ago I was a small 256 miles for the year and at the begining of this week I am at 330 miles. Way off from where I wanted to be but I have been injury free since I started, not even a blister and I am rested. This week I have 9 training hours planned. 4 runs with a long of 12 miles, 2 bike rides with a long of about 25 miles and 2 swims for a total of 2.7 miles.

The next 3 weeks will again be building phases with the 4th week a rest of recovery. I am excited that Nations is only 83 days away. I am doing Nations as a fundraiser for Team in Training and very nervous about my fundraining. I am off to a slow start again and the possibility is real I might not make my minimum. I have been so successful in the past and my friends and family have been so generous with their donations. Its hard to think I might not do this but understand that times are tough and I am no stranger to the financial tightning of the belt we all are facing.
http://pages.teamintraining.org/md/nattri12/ddushkin

I am filled with with excitment and new found passion for swimming and cycling and wether it be nations or another event I am super psyched to join the multisport world. 2013 will be filled with lots of great events, a 70.3 or two and maybe even the ultimate goal of 140.6

I am well on my way, my foundation is being built and great things are going to happen.




2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
June 16th- Baltimore 10 Miler (did not race due to work)
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

Month 1

The 1st month is just about in the books! It has been a challenge but rewarding as hell. When I finish my workouts for tomorrow and sunday I will have swam 4 miles, biked 31 miles and run 60 miles. I am pretty excited about that.

I have missed a couple works outs but over all I feel I am on tract and fell great. I am getting the hang of my nutrition and back on track eating a plant based diet.

Kerri has me on a 3/1 routine. That is I build for 3 weeks and rest recover for 1 week. This week I am in rest which just means my distance and duration are shorter. I have no idea what the next few weeks will and I think it is better that I dont know.

I am reading the book "finding my Ultra" about a plant based Ultra Ironman. It is a great book and super motivating. It actually has explained alot of my training and why Kerri is doing what she is doing. I am new to Heart reate/zone training and surprsied at how well it is working.

The countdown clock is ticking and I am 84 days away from nations followed by 4 marathons in 4 months.

Things are clicking in at the right time and I have no doubt that Kerri will have me prepared. All I need to do is check my training calander, not make any excuses and just get it done.


2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
June 16th- Baltimore 10 Miler
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

National running day

June 6th is a very important day on the calander. A day that I have known as long as I can remember. Today it has a new simpler meaning to me. It is National Running Day!

When you think about it that does not compare to the Anniversary of D-Day but this is a running blog not a history blog. I didnt know about this last year and for some reason today it means alot to me. I think it is stupid really but it was important for me to get outside and run. No surprise my training calander had a run scheduled. In fact the only days I dont train are my rest days at the Taylor Ave Station.

I got in 8 miles on a beautiful sunny morning with a slight breeze. It was perfect running weather. I finished all 8 miles sub 12:00 and was stoked with that. My running is improving alot and my goal of a PR at disney is looking possible. I have a time goal in mind and so far I am well on my way to reaching it.

I went to my first swim practice on Sunday where I offially had my but kicked. I was gassed at the end but was excited to finally meet all the Tri Girls of TNT. I say Tri Girls because I am the only Male on the HoCo Team. Everyone was super nice and for most it was also their first Tri and first event with TNT. I swam again yesterday and had a great session in the pool. I got in 1900 yards (a little over a mile) and started to put together 200's and 300's. I was very happy how the session went. I also managed to get in a 4 mile run before.

Tomorrow will be another 4 miles but most important will be on hour on the bike. I am still very nervous but with a little road time that will all go away.

over all this week I will have 3+ miles in the pool, 26 miles running and however far I can ride on the bike in an hour.

A great week of training.





2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
June 16th- Baltimore 10 Miler
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

just 256

Well it sure has been awhile since I have written a blog. Life is happening and havent had much time. Good news is I am back in the swing of things. Last week I was in Myrtle Beach for a gold outing and this week I worked a 48 hour shift and that didnt help either.

I had grown confused with the diet and have felt the effects. I am back to eating the way I want to (plant based) and already feel the positive effects. I just bought 2 books, Chrissie Wellingtons and Finding Ultra to continue my motivation. Both books are amazing stories about amazing athletes.

The training is coming along and My last pool session was 1.4 miles. It was a huge jump but I did it and it gave me a huge confidence bost. I have another session tomorrow night with Team in Training. It will be my first training with the Tri Team and I am super excited.

Running is going great my pace is picking up and even managed to run 3 miles under 11 minutes. Kerri is a huge help and her training is working wonders for me. I need to put all the puzzle peices together and I will blossom.

Nutrition has been my biggest struggle and that is my fault and lack of disipline.

Biking is still a question mark in my mind but I have faith that will work out as well.

I am dissapointed I am only at 256 miles but by the end of the month and the summer that number with jump to where I want it.



2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
June 16th- Baltimore 10 Miler
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

Ready, Set, Swim

http://www.aquaticrhino.com/





I will first say the hardest part of getting a swim analysis is getting over body issues. The second thing is it is very f'n cool and was a HUGE help.

I was refered to David of Aquatic Rhino by Kerri (we are friends again.) David is a Triathlete, life long Swimmer through the College level and a certified swim instructor for all levels. David lives in Anne Arundel County. He has set up his garage (very well done) with a very large endless pool and all of the latest and greatest swimming instruction computer softwear and HD TV. There are cameras every where to capture any possible swim angle which can be played back real time or frame by frame.

The pool is pictured above. If you are not familiar with an endless pool, there is a fan that creates a current (silver box) and you swim against it. It is very wierd and difficult at first because the water is coming towards you and not vice versa. We started out with a discussion of my swim history and objectives for the session. With that complete it was time to swim.

I started with me just doing what I do to get a base line profile, I swam for about 20-30 seconds. It is very difficult at first to get a hand of the current and matching its speed. With that it was time to go to the video replay. The horror! Wow I had no idea I had such poor form or technique. I will say that many things wer good but one major point was bad and that was a killer to being efficent and cause a marked increase in water drag. the Major point was me head psoition and that threw my whole body axis off and cause my hips and legs to be way below the water line. Simple terms, BAD! We reviewed the video, discussed it and fixes. All were very easy fixes and developed drills to work on.

The session continued and we reviewed all facets of the freestyle stroke, shoulders, arms, hips, kicks fingers, breathing etc. On my last swim the problem was fixed. With the adjustments just to my head position amazingly my body axis leveled out and my whole body was at water line. Unbelievable!

We finished with a review and a list of drills to work on. David spend extra time reviewing with me all that we had discussed. So I have a lot to work on but I feel my next pool session will be far more positive and easier while I work on the area we covered today.

Tomorrow I have a 75 minute negative split run, 30 min zones 1-2 out and 30 min zone 3-4 back with warm up and cool down.

Friday is my next pool day with a 1000 yard (.56 mile) session and runs on sat and sun.




2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
June 16th- Baltimore 10 Miler
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

1st Swim

I think todays entry should just be summed up in 2 words. Holy Shit!

I knew swimming was going to be tough but this was crazy. I am not a fast runner but have built up a base and conditioning that I can go out and run 10-12 miles any time I want and with a few weeks of training can be well underway for a marathon. Swimming is a whole new level of fitness and work out.

I am sore alread. I have been in the pools a few times already just to build a bsae and basic comfort level. The most yardage I had put in was 200-250 yards. Then there was today, 850 yards. that is 34 lengths. That is alot! .45 miles and to accomplish my goal I will have to do 5x that. It is mind blowing to think of that at this point but so was 26.2

I did not have fins for the swim today but they should be here soon and my drill work will begin. I will also go this week to get a swim analysis to work on being more efficent and to develope form and technique.

I am looking forward to all of this and look forward to the day when swimming is on par with running and I can just go out and swim.


Please remember that I will be doing the Nations Tri with Team in Training to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Please read my fundraising page and if you can make a donation. Every dollar makes a difference.
http://pages.teamintraining.org/md/nattri12/ddushkin


2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 16th- Baltimore 10 Miler
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

Careful what you wish for

The Saying goes "careful what you wish for, cause you just might get it!" So the saying is true. I want to become a triathlete. A statement that is not a newsflash to anyone who knows me. I want to complete and compete an Ironman, again not a news flash. So as I wrote in my last blog I enlisted the help of a Pro. Literally.

I am working with a coach whom I know would push me beyond my limits. Who will work with me on form, technique, knowledge,  and so on. What I did not expect that she would have me jump off a cliff the first week. I did not expect this to be easy and it is not. The running yes I have no issues with. I am doing new drills but a 75 minute run is nothing. The bike and swim! Oh my lord. Below I have attached my 4 next work outs. my first task is to convert them to english. The learning curve is step and an hour on the bike like that taught me many important lessons. I learned right away about bike fit and seat position. 2 things I will need to correct at my new scheduled bike fitting next week. I also learned that my self produced posterior padding is not enough and I will be testing ne seats.

A fish I am not. So I have done a few pool sessions. 200-300 yards. Below is my first pool session. please do the math, it is not 200 yards rather 800 + yards. WHAT??? Fins?  Carful what you wish for... what doesnt kill me only makes me stronger! running long miles wasnt easy at first and swimming in my mind is the same. Time, sweat, and effort = ease, efficiency and confidence. It only took me 5 months to run 26.2 miles, I can train to swim 1 in 4 months.

This morning I got off work and was able to watch the run portion of the Tri Rock Annapolis Triathlon. it was a beautiful morning and there was 1300 athletes  in the event. As I watched each of them pass I was reminded that each and everyone of them had there first week of training. Each one suffered, had a hard day and had to do more than they thought they could. I remember very well my first training runs and the first time I ran 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 26 miles. Each day was a continuation of the previous day and my 4th marathon was much easier and better than the first and my goal for Disney this year is 4:48. 2 hours and 11 minutes faster that my 1st last year.

I remembered Drill Sargents Paris and McCallister who took a fat 17 year old kid and made him a soldier. I remember my RTO's who took made pushed me everyday to graduate the Fire Academy. I realized that this is not new but old hat. I have been here before, at the beginning and as always I will reach my goal and I will succeed.

So I will push through week 1. It will be painful. I will go through the next 4 months and I will post my success at Nations. I will continue and grow and post a picture of my Ironman tattoo when that time comes.

careful what I wish for cause I will get it!

Please remember that I will be doing the Nations Tri with Team in Training to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Please read my fundraising page and if you can make a donation. Every dollar makes a difference.
http://pages.teamintraining.org/md/nattri12/ddushkin


DRILLS
WU: 15 minutes
4X1 minute fast pedal drills at 100 plus rpm's. EASY gear. Small ring if necessary
5 minutes easy spin.
6x30 second single leg drills with 30 second recovery both legs. EASY gear. PLace foot on trainer behind you.
5 minutes easy.
4x1 minute low cadence drills with 1 mibute easy spin recovery. LOW gear. Should simulate hill. BIG RING 11-13 gearing. Stay seated.
CD: 10 minutes

Endurance run. 1:15. Start at a comfy pace, gradually increase the pace over the course of the run, pace towards the end should be to the point of discomfort but sustainable hold that steady with good form. Work on form, arms, footing, cadence.

Planned Distance: 5.0 miles
Run 4 miles
Gradual warm-up over 10-15 minutes to Z3. Near end of run complete 8x100m strides on grass or track. Strong relaxed for sprint with perfect form. Easywalk/jog back to start.


EASY swim. WU: 3x50 as freestyle with 20 sec ri, 100 swim with fins, 2x50 kick with fins and board
6x25 swim with 10 sec ri.
100 swim with fins 20 sec ri
6x25 swim with 10 sec ri
100 swim with fins 10 sec ri.




2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 16th- Baltimore 10 Miler
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

And away we go!

Today is day 1. It just sort of happened this way but I have become a fall/winter racer. Of course I use the term racer lighty. I hate the heat and and run no races in the summer. I changed that this year and added the Baltimore 10 miler and will use that just as a training run.Running in the cold is much better for me. I train in the summer but I have much more control over that and can run early or late.

If you have been following my race calander you can see it has changed alot. I am back to 4 full marathons and 1 Olympic Tri (1.5k swim 40k bike 10k run.) I can hear of you you saying "He's crazy" as you read my schedule. Last year I ran 3 in 3 months with 2 being 20 days apart. Here is my philosophy. I will build milage and base for the first race and just maintain that for the next races and each race will be my long run for the next. I have in the past restarted training from the begining for each race. On solid advice I have cancelled the savage man tri as it is a difficult course and the following week after Nations. I picked which of the Tri's was most important and since I am with Team in Training Nations wins and I will concentrate of that event.

I have been very lucky to have som many great coaches, mentors, and friends develope me as a runner and now I will add another to the mix. I have hit the pot of gold and enlisted the help of a Triathlon coach. I very much want to learn the sport and this is the smartest way for me to do this. There is so much information out there and blanket training routines it is a sure way to injury and failure. I will train to a program tailored towards me and the right way. I could not have finished 4 marathons without Mike, Jonathan, Eric, or Nancy and now I will be successful in the multi sport world with Kerri.

the road will be long, the road will be tough. The learning curve is steep. I have never failed and I wont start now. I have my goals and they will get checked off.

http://kmotionsports.com/

I attached the link if you would like to learn more about my triathlon coach and Kinetic Motion based in Annapolis.

Well i need to go clean the garage and get ready for todays training run to figure out my HR zones.



2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 16th- Baltimore 10 Miler
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

I wish I could do that.

It seems like everyday now I come across someone who strikes up a conversation with me about running. This week the talk has been about the American Odyssey Relay. I have answered so many questions and told stories on how fun it was and how the whole team cant wait for the next run. the Conversation always ends with "I wish I could do that." What they are wishing for is being able to become a runner.

Runners are people who go out each day and ejoy the experience of running. You dont have to run Ultras, marathons or even half marathons. I know many people who wish they could go back to just enjoying a run and not worry about pace, repeats, hill workouts, tempo runs etc. Just walk out side, lace up their shoes and run. This is the only the est part of running. You can be anywhere, at anytime, and just go. No special equiptment needed and really not much time is needed either. I am sure that out of 24 hours at some point you can find 30 minutes.

Many people say they cant. I was one of them and for 40 years made excuses. Then I met a retired Marine Lt. Colonel and he didnt take my Bullshit. I was 283 pounds and could run a mile. 5 months later I crossed the finish line of the 2010 Disney World Marathon. 26.2 miles in 5 months. Yes you can! Yes it hurt, yes it was hard but it can be done. Do you need to run that far? No, but just think how easy 3 miles. I started by walking, just a normal walking pace for me and then a little faster and faster. Soon I tried to run and low and behold I was jogging. Slow at first and for short distance. Than a little faster then a little longer all the way to 26.2 miles.

There are great programs to help you run. the couch potato to 5k is great and the Jeff galloway walk/run program is great.

Just take 30 minutes to yourself a few days a week and give it a try. If you would like to run the only thing keep you from doing it is you.



2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 16th- Baltimore 10 Miler
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
December 8th- Seashore Marathon, Rehobeth Beach. De.
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

American Odyssey Relay

Amazing! The single best word to describe this race. I always find it hard to use the word "race." To me "race" means that it is a compitition factor and hope of winning but this was al about fun. My team was a coed mix of Team in Training alumni and Firefighters from Annapolis.

We met thurs afternoon and had a great dinner together and got a chance and sit down and meet everyone on the team for the first time. It was a great begining to what was an event to bring us even closer together. I was luckey to get a chance to be able to see Braeden and Farica for a little bit before I left. I had worked a 24 on wed and might have not been able to see them. I passed Farica on the way to the pick up point and she met us there to wish us good luck.

Dinner ran late and I needed to be at a Capt's meeting to get all the last minute details. After the meeting we all met to go over those details, got our bibs and shirts finalized our plans and to no surprised went to the bar to finish out the night.

We met the next morning, decorated the van, split up the supplies and took our team pictures. 9:00am was our start time with Rebecca leading the way. My Van headed out to Gettysburg for breakfast and walk around alittle and went to our first transition point. We arrived there about 3 hours early and met several of the teams that we would be with for the next day and a half. We met tons of great people making the race event better. The begining of the course was beautiful and very very hilly. BIG HILLS.

It came to my first leg which was a nice 6 mile run. Not Really. The road was a gravel back road that was 3 miles up, 3 miles down. though the second half was very fast for me it is a killer and the legs. Finishing that run took a toll on bot the quads and hams which are still burning tonight. All of us had a great time laughing and acting like best friends on a road trip.

We got to our Main rest area at Boonsboro highschool and cleaned the van got some food and freshened up. We only had a couple hours. It was quite a set up though. The gym was set up as a sleeping area. They had huge grills set up  with burgers, hot dogs, and chicken. 3 kinds of home made soups, pizza and french fries.you could also get a message, and tons of freash made pastries and cookies.

My second leg was truly out of this world. I had a 4.7 mile run at 2:00am through the Antietam National Battle field and Cemetary. It was pitch black, very cold, and sleeting. We ran with head lamps and glow sticks so we would stick out to the Van which would track each runner every mile or so through the night. To run along this hallowed grounds was unbelievable and an experience that I will never forget.

We finished up our second legs and finally got a couple hours sleep at the 2nd major transition are. We headed to Mcdonalds for coffee and by this time we were very tired, very sore, and to be honest getting a little short with each other.We will still having fun and regained a great attitude after the coffee kicked in.

My 3rd leg was another trail run covering 8.6 miles on the C&O canal. It was beautiful! My legs were toast so I found a nice easy pace and settled in. I enjoyed the view surrounded by water on bothe sides and all of the natural wonders this trail offers. I was good. There was no water stops so I had brought plenty of water and was well hydrated. What I forgot was some food or gels at at mile 6.5 the wheels feel off. I needed calories and was shit out of luck. I became dizzy and generly felt like shit. It was not BAD but it was bad. I had no option to stop and had to get to my transition area. It would be much quicker to cover the 1.5 miles then to wait for someone to fid me and go back to get help. I knew I was well hydrated so I pushed on. I also thought of Travis. I ran this race to honor the Memory of Travis Manion, who was a greaduate the USNA and killed in action. He would never give up and niether could I.  With about a half mile left Bonnie who did not know what was going on was there on the trail to meet me and run in with me. She was a great help and I am so appreciative of her support. I got back to the van and was able to refuel with Nuun, peanut butter, granola, and pretzles and right away I was back to normal.

we got our last runner off and met the rest of the team at the finish area. we learned that one of our teammates was sick and she and her husband went home. We were saddened that all 12 couldnt cross the line together but so proud that the 12 of us finished this run and we did it together. Crossing the line was symbolic but did not change what we accomplished. We will run another relay together so we will have our time.

Christine was the last runner and the 10 of us crossed the line. 32 hours to cover 200 miles

This was such and incredible journey. I am so proud of my team and thankful they agreed to do this. We have our next race picked out and already the excitment is growing.


2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (32:04)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 16th- Baltimore 10 Miler
June 17th - South Carroll Fathers Day Sprint Tri, Westminster, Md
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 18th - Philadelphia Marathon
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

Success

I am proud to say that Gretchen and Dennis both finished Boston on Monday and what were very bad running conditions. I am so proud to have both as friends and running mentors. To see people acomplish their dreams is amazing!

This time of year is tough for me. As a fall/winter marathoner I find it hard to to motivate myself sometimes as my first big race is not until Sept. I am super excited to be back with Team in Training and to see if I can beat the Potomic and make my 1 mile swim. If I can learn to run 26.2 I can learn to swim 1. Kick off is just days away and I know the juices will start flowing.

I am thinking of signing up for another race this year. I am considering the Baltimore 10 miler and think that will be a fun one. I am scheduled to run the Marine Corps Half in May but have a chance to host a Professional Triathlete that weekend and I think I might do that. Although Andy is might drive up from NC to run the half with me so next week I will decide. If  Andy comes up, I will run

The Official countdown has begun. 9 days till the relay, myself and the Team are super excited! This is going to be one hell of a ride and already I am planning the next adventure. Where will we go and who is coming with.




2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 16th- Baltimore 10 Miler
June 17th - South Carroll Fathers Day Sprint Tri, Westminster, Md
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
Sept 15th- Savageman 30.0 Tri, Deep Creek Lake, Md
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

Marathon Monday

Marathon Monday has a new meaning to me. I have always known about the Boston Marathon, I have always known that it has qualifing times, and have known that to some it was really special. I never truly knew what that meant and what Boston means to those who have run it. Today is the  Boston Marathon and I know 3 people who will be battling the 26.2 miles in close to 90 degree heat. I know what their journey was, I know of their hardships, their training and the sacriface made to be able to put on the bibb. Boston has a whole new meaning to me today. Anyone can run a marathon but only a select few can run Boston. Gretchen, Dennis, and Melody. I wish you the best! Not only are you special runners, you are special people.

I got a boast of motivation yesterday reading. To me there are endless positive points in training and running a Marathon. I read a blog yesterday in which a person felt that training for a marathon is a waste of time, an unbalance of family and to great of a committment away from family. A needless way to health and fitness. The writter continued to make fun of those who train and compete in Marathons and Ironman and being obsessed with the completion of the event and about the medal. The writter continued describing their defeatist attitude, nothing like talking yourself out of something before you try it.

I couldnt disagree more! Yes I lose alot of time away from Braeden and Farica. The life lessons Braeden is learning is priceless. Does he have any clue? No, but in time he will. Through my running and training Brae is learning lessons that will last a lifetime and build a foundation to what I hope will be a long and successful life. My Marathons will teach Brea that anything is possible, that he can accomplish anything his mind dreams of. He will learn that sometimes his goals will take tremendous time, tremendous sacriface, and there might be bumps in the road. He will learn what ever the finish line is he will be able to cross it. Braeden I hope, will not be a satistic of todays obese youth and develope healthy habits. I was and have been obese my entire life. I still am based on numbers. farica and I have lost a combined 90 pounds. we have achived that by eating healthier and he sees that. When he asks me what I am eating, I say vegetables. I started my Plant Based diet because of Braeden and to ensure that I will stack the cards in my favor for a long and healthy life and those things that I can control I will do it the right way.

Braeden is also learning that sometimes we have make personal sacrifaces to benefit others. I run and raise money for cancer research. Braeden already knows about sick children and we must do what we can to help them and their families. That might take time from him and I but it is just as important. When my almost 3 year says to me "I want the sick kids to get better, and invite them to my birthday Party" is heart warming and I know that these lessons are working.





2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 17th - South Carroll Fathers Day Sprint Tri, Westminster, Md
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
Sept 15th- Savageman 30.0 Tri, Deep Creek Lake, Md
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

as the endurance world turns.

Once again the ebb and flow of my race calander has changed.

I had a great weekend in Charlottsvile and spent some wonderful time with family and friends. It was picture perfect. The race went very well. It was a beautiful coarse that went through Downtown and the University of Virginia campus. It is what I call a hilly course and did not have alot of spectators. I had some breathing issues but at mile 2 I had a good deep cough and cleared the plug. the next 3 miles went well with no issues other than there were no mile markers from 2 on. I do remember thinking "holy shit this is a long mile" It was a long mile in fact it was 3. I have started taking allergy meds and I feel 100% better. I have always had allergies but usually they dont start till later in the season. So I quess I am now just part of the masses.

As you know, Team in training is a huge part of who I am. I had to drop running San Diego and I can not accept this. To not be a part of this family and having failed at the fundraising does not sit well with me. My obsession with Tri's is growing but my knowledge is very basic as it was when I first started running. I give TNT 100% for making me the runner I am and and know they can do the same in the Tri world.

So the decsion is clear. I will train with Team in Training and complete my first Tri with them. I have signed up to do the Nations Tri in Washington DC and will fundraise for this event. With that I will not be fundraising for Disney but of course I will be running the Marathon and be as much of a part of the team as I can.

Speaking of Disney I could not be happier that Andy and Lisa have sipped the Kool Aid and will be running as well. To say that this years Disney Marathon will be Epic is an understatement.

So there is this weeks edition of my soap opera. 2 weeks till the Relay and am super psyched.



2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race (55:36)
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 17th - South Carroll Fathers Day Sprint Tri, Westminster, Md
Sept 9th - Nations Tri Washington DC (TNT)
Sept 15th- Savageman 30.0 Tri, Deep Creek Lake, Md
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3

Ahhhh much better

Of course at 1:30 am the tones go off and off on another medical adventure I went. Returning about 3:00am and falling back asleep around 4:00 and up at 6 did not make for a very motivating day. I came home tried to take a nap but had to much coffee. I walked Epi for her usual 2 miles, it was a beautiful morning so that sparked some motivation and energy into my day. I realized I had my race scheduled on the wrong day, it is saturday not sunday so I switched my training schedule around just a little bit.

I got back in the pool today and had a much better swim, I was more relaxed, less tired and not as dizzy. My first pool session I was so nervous, looking back on it I realized I created a nice state of Hypercarbia in my system. What I realized I was doing was not exhaling in the water and just taking small breaths. So I had a little bit of the good gas but was not blowing off any of the bad gas. Not good! So today I slowed down, concentrated on good air goes in, bad air goes out! What an amazing difference that makes. I had a very positive swim with a much higher confidence level. I will finish out the week with small numbers in the pool and next week will double my yardage. Good news is I am 6 weeks away from my first sprint tri and after next week will have the swim distance down.

After the swim I got on the bike trainer and had a nice 30 minute 12 mile ride. I am still working with my clips and practicing shifting gears to get a comfort zone on the new bike. I will bring it doors next week and spend some time in a large parking lot and put my practice to use. So all in all a great day.



Tomorrow - Work
Monday - 8 x 25 (200m), Biked 12 miles
Tues - 1 x 50, 6 x 25 (200m), Run 4 miles
Wed - 1 x 50, 8 x 25 (250m), Run 4 miles
Thur - Work, Bike 30 Minutes
Fri - 1 x 50, 8 x 25 (250m), Run 2 miles
Sat - 8k

 weekly total- Swim 900m, bike 1 hour, run 16 miles

The Journey continues



2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 17th - South Carroll Fathers Day Sprint Tri, Westminster, Md
Sept 15th- Savageman 30.0 Tri, Deep Creek Lake, Md
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT

goals for the week

So now that we are back in the swing of things, I need to figure out training. How to maintain and improve my Marathons and how to build to Olympic Triathlons and beyond in 2012. The learning curve is high but at least I have the running part down. I also need to figure out how to work in 24 hour shifts with the summer no sleep period upon us.

So this week will remain easy with a 8k next Sunday. I will swim 4 days, run 3 days, and bike 2 days.
here is my calander,

Tomorrow - Work
Monday - 8 x 25 (200m), run 4 miles
Tues - 1 x 50, 6 x 25 (200m), Bike 30 minutes
Wed - 1 x 50, 8 x 25 (250m), Run 4 miles
Thur - Work
Fri - 1 x 50, 8 x 25 (250m), Bike 30 minutes
Sat - Run 2 miles
Sunday - 8K Charlottesville, Va.

 weekly total- Swim 900m, bike 1 hour, run 16 miles

The Journey continues



2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 17th - South Carroll Fathers Day Sprint Tri, Westminster, Md
Sept 15th- Savageman 30.0 Tri, Deep Creek Lake, Md
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT

Finally something to write about.

Well I couldnt take sitting around anymore so I finally said "fuck it!" It has been too long since i've run or have done any exersice from being sick. I still have the cough and not much endurance but enough is enough.

I have been dreading the thought of swimming for ever and really needed my first day in the pool. I was very nervous and sat on a chair for 20 minutes before I could bring myself to get in. I loved swimming as a kid but have not been swimming since. I have spent many hours in the pool at resorts that have a pool bar and I did take Braeden for swimming lessons, but I was just standing and hold him. I sat there at the side watching all of the swimmers mark off lap after lap. I noticed some were obvious excellent swimmers and I would guess they had alot of tri's under there belt. I noticed more that the majority of swimmers were older men and woman and several were overweight and using swimming as exersice to get healthier and lose weight. Then it hit me. When I first started running I had a program of walking to build up to running my first mile. One day I was at the park it was a practice day for the Iron Girl Tri. I had the same thoughts that hey I really can do this running thing. I saw a few pro's but the vast majority were everyday women of all ages and sizes and for what ever reason they had the decided to do a tri. It was a very inspiring moment to me and I believe the top reason why I was able to finish my 1st Marathon. So with that memory I pused off and swam my first lap.

I didnt swim far (200m) but I finally did it and had my 1st session to offically kick of my Triathlon training. Just like my running I will stick with swimming and improve and go farther every week and before I know I will consider myself a swimmer. I will swim 5 days a week and train in blocks, 0-750m, 750m - 1500m, 1500m - 3000m etc.  My goal is to be able to swim 2.4 miles next November and I have no doubts anymore about doing this.

After I swimming I changed and walked upstairs, coughed out some lung butter and got on the treadmill. Surprisingly I had a great run. Just a short 2 miles at an 11:06 pace and did not have any issues. I felt good as can be expected and  didnt have any breathing issues. I feel confident for my 8K April 8th and will go back to my regular running routine and training for my next big race on May 20th, The Marine Corps Half Marathon. I am very said to say that I had to drop the San Diego Marathon because my Fundraising had come to a halt. I had such a great year in 2011 it was kind of expected that it would happen this year with so many events that close to each other.

So all in all It was a great day. I will continue to rest but feels good to get back to training. I have been given a great foundation by so many close friends, great coaches and mentors and I am very fortunate.


2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 17th - South Carroll Fathers Day Sprint Tri, Westminster, Md
Sept 15th- Savageman 30.0 Tri, Deep Creek Lake, Md
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT)

still got the pox

9 days and counting. I am still out for the count and this respiratory thing is getting old. I walk the dog every day for 2 miles and that is about it. I am fed up with it and want very much to get back to running and training. I am 12 days away from my next race, 30 days from the relay and less than 2 months till another half and my first tri is in June.

I am giving this just 3 more days to rest and than I need to get back on the horse and train.

I wish I had something more to write about but sitting on my ass coughing all day doesnt make for exciting writing or reading.

keeping my fingers crossed.



2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 17th - South Carroll Fathers Day Sprint Tri, Westminster, Md
Sept 15th- Savageman 30.0 Tri, Deep Creek Lake, Md
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT)

not much to write about.

It has been a long week and it is only wed. I had planned on getting alot of training in this week and start with a new program. I forgot I had class on monday and that f'd up my first pool day. I started feeling bad during the day, wnt to work my 24 on tues and didnt make it through the shift. I went home feeling like I got run over by a truck, spent some time with Brae and Rickey and went to bed for the rest of the night. I woke up this morning and felt better but under the weather still and get gassed easily as what ever this is in my chest. I hope to kick this soon and get back on the streets. April, May and June are big months for my race schedule and I dont want to fall behind on my training. I had a goal of a 100 mile month but looks like it will come out around 75. not bad but not enough.

I am nervous to get in the pool and want to get that first day overwith soon. it is messing with my mind and I need to kick it in the but.

On another note I must say I am truly thankful for all of my TNT coaches and friends for teaching me the right way to becoming a runner. I read another blog of a runner who is over training, under nourised, and doesnt seem to be handling recovery well. I have received so much good advice and training, i am grateful.

So, I hope to have more training updates soon and I can get back on the roads, bike, and pool.

2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon (2:45)
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 17th - South Carroll Fathers Day Sprint Tri, Westminster, Md
Sept 15th- Savageman 30.0 Tri, Deep Creek Lake, Md
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT)

Race Weekend

what a super fun weekend. Beca, Erin and I went to the Expo on friday. This was Erins first big race and the most fun was walking up and down the isles with her and hearing "oh I need that" needless to say her Swag bag was stuffed. I laughed when Beca bought a medal holder for the wall that holds 20 medals. Looks like she has alot of races coming up in the near future. I bought some more Nuun hydration tabs and a new fuel belt.

Saturday was race day and started out with perfect running weather and then the sun came out and made for a very warm race day. The majority of my running and training in in the fall winter so I was not really ready for the heat. Erin decided to drop back to my corral but we ended up moving further up to corral 20. The race course was a great course through DC and the first mile we ran towards the Capitol and made for a very scenic route. We had a great pace up till the 5k point and then the hills started and didnt stop. We keep pushing and I knew I was in trouble when we cought up to the 2:30 pace at mile 9 which ment we were sub 2:30. that cought up with me at 10 and the tank went dry. I struggled to finish with the heat and hills. I finished with a 2:45 which is my best time for 13.1.

This was my first race where I did not wear my Nathen pack which holds 2L's of water and I just used the water stops. It solved my race GI problems as I think I was over hydrating.

Erin finished ahead of me and had a super time for her 1st half and farthest run to date. Becca the jack rabbit finished with a great time of 2 hours.

My next run is in early April in Va and just a short 8k and then in the end of April we will all team together again for a 200 mile relay starting in Gettysburg and ending in DC.

Hello Tri World! They call me David

At least Farica cant yell at me about the bike anymore. Now I will get to hear "Are you fricken kidding me? More events!" Hello my name is David and I have a problem.

The Calander now includes two less Marathons and 2 added Tri's. I am doing a sprint, 400 yard swim, 14 mile bike and 5k swim and Olympic with a .9 mile swim, 22 mile bike, and 10k. I think these will be a good introduction to the Tri world and Local events so Farica wont 100% lose her mind. I of course will still be searching for more events to do but am pretty happy with my calander.

I will keep it light this week and race day is Saturday and then Next week I will add swimming, biking, and weights to the workout routine,


2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 17th - South Carroll Fathers Day Sprint Tri, Westminster, Md
Sept 15th-   Savageman 30.0 Tri, Deep Creek Lake, Md
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT)

Its Race week!

Let the Fun Begin! It is race week and once again the excitment is building. St Pattys's I will run the 1st Rock and Roll DC Half Marathon and kick of my season. I am running this on my own but there will be a huge Team in Training group and Erin and Rebecca from AFD will be running again. It will be Erins longest run and I hope she gets the running bug. I have set a goal of 2:30 but as always I am happy just to finish.

I am sad to report that San Diego is not looking good. That was to be my 4th Team in training event in a row and I am almost at the point of having to drop it. Although I feel like I failed I know it is very hard to do what I was trying to do. I am not done and Team in Training will be a part of my life for a very long time to come.

Last weekend was our State wide training as as always it was a great event and so many good friends were there. I knocked out 10 miles with the first being the ever emotional silient mile.

The good news is I now get to search for a pelacement run and start planning for my first Tri.



2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 3rd - Rock and Roll San Diego Marathon (TNT)
October 7th- Steamtown Marathon
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT)

She has arrived!

Well the wait is Over! The deal has taken place and Farica and I are on speaking terms. I am the proud new owner of a Trex 1.2 road Bike. I am so psyched and thankful to Farica for making this happen. I have an incredible desire to do Tri's and an obbsession with Ironman. I have joined the Mid Maryland Tri Club and can not wait to get started and add swimming and biking to my training. I thank Jeff and Nancy for being a part of this and Nancy I am so thankful to you for everything.

This past Jan Nancy was a part of the group that ran a great 54 minute 5k at Disney (long story) and I cant imagine how long it is going to take us to run 200 miles LOL. I could not be more excited that she has joined the Relay team. Best part is she has told me about the no whining rule and I have free rain when she starts to sound like a Paramedic with no sleep.

This Morning, myself and another Plant Strong FF from Annapolis met with Whole Foods Annapolis and we will be assisting them in monthly cooking classes, lectures and summer kids camps. We are so proud to be a part of this and helping to bring a healthy diet and fitness to our community.

I am 1 week till my first race since Disney and will be joing Rebecca and Erin from AFD as well as many of my TNT family in the DC Rock and Roll half marathon. This will be Erins first race and I know she will do great.

The best news is closest friends Andy and Lisa will be going to Disney Marathon weekend and running. It is put in writing now so there is no turning back. Only 306 days left.

I had a great week running and have logged 15 miles so far with a 10 mile run tomorrow with Team in Training. Tomorrow is one of my favorite days as the whole state comes together to train.

All in all this has been a great week and cant wait to see what the weekend brings.

2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 3rd - Rock and Roll San Diego Marathon (TNT)
October 7th- Steamtown Marathon
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT)

From the halls...

As the Marine Corps Hymn runs through my mind, I am happy to say I am officially registered for my 2nd Marine Corps Marathon. This Year I will be running for the Travis Manion Foundation which should make this event beyond compare. The link below is about Travis and the Foundation in his honor.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECix7kE1wic

I learned yesterday that the Engine 2 diet has a new food coach program and I spoke to our Friend Rip and expressed my interest in completing their program and spreading the word about the benefits of a Plant Strong Life Style.
http://engine2diet.com/

I do think something is very wrong with me and it might not be normal to watch 2 hours of Kona inspired videos on the Ironman Channel.
www.konainspired.com,

Well its time to go run and it's a beautiful day.






2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 3rd - Rock and Roll San Diego Marathon (TNT)
October 7th- Steamtown Marathon
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon #2
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT)

Its a new week!

I have come to the conclusion that I am a much better runner than blogger. I do enjoy both and am going to try to keep up the blog. I'm not really sure if anyone reads it but hey Farica and Andy do so I keep on typing.

I am over 100 miles for the year and after not running for 3 weeks after Disney I am very happy with the Milage. I feel like a real runner finally. I have improved my pace and now am at an 11 minute mile. I started at 13:00 in Aug 2010 and have not had speed work in my training. This year I have added (or am following) my weekly Tempo runs and next month will add track workouts. My goal is to reach a 10 minute mile and hope to have that down by Disney 2013.

The Plant strong eating is going well but last week was a difficult week and was not a healthy week. I noticed an immediate difference and how I felt, how I slept, and my attitude. just a few bad choices while at work and at the EMS conference has really reinforced my committment to being Plant Strong.

I look at my Race calander and Amazed I can actually do all this. I am so excited to my first race in Next week in DC. San Diego is coming up but my fundraising has hit a wall and might not be able to make that trip. It hurts not to be able to accomplish a goal but after raising $10,000 dollars last year and so much support it is understandable. Very few people can do 4 events back to back.

On a good note, Farica and I have come to an agreement and I will be a proud new owner of a Trex Road Bike and now the door to the Tri World is Open. Now it is all up to me  and it's time to get in the water.

2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 3rd - Rock and Roll San Diego Marathon (TNT)
October 7th- Steamtown Marathon
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT)

Lets get this Party Started!

http://pages.teamintraining.org/md/rnr12/ddushkisgq



Here we go! Day one of my Official 2012 training calander is today! we kick of this 16 mile week with a nice 3 mile run followed by a 3 miler, 4 miler and 6 miles on Saturday. I am looking foward to long runs in the park and will get the chance to meet my new team this weekend. My coach for San Diego will be Jonathon again and this will be our 3rd Marathon together.

 I cant say say a bad word about him and I am very excited for all the improvements this year and those great conversations on the road! I have asked him for a 5 day training week with the 5th day being speed work so I can continue to improve my overall time. I also will be adding  some extra work in the pool and doing an areobic class during the week. The Broccoli brothers at work have brought in a Yoga teacher and have a class once a week. I hope not to over sleep and make my first class this Friday.

The diet is going well and the scale is showing 236, I am happy with that as I wasnt 100% plant strong during the superbowl.

Just a little over 6 weeks till my first race, The Suntrust DC Rock and Roll 1/2 Marathon.

So here is to another great year with Team in Training and sharing with you along the way.

2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 3rd - Rock and Roll San Diego Marathon (TNT)
October 7th- Steamtown Marathon
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon? (unless I get into NYC)
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT)

Enjoying the rest

The Link to my fundraising page
http://pages.teamintraining.org/md/rnr12/ddushkisgq

The time has come. After running all 3 races at Disney a couple weeks ago, I have taken the time to rest and recover and have only run once for a painful 3 miles. I did not miss the running at all until now. I am excited again to get back out there and monday will start the 2012 running season. I am looking forward to seeing what happens this year. I am now 100% plant based with my diet and wonder how this will effect my training. I an not concerned that it will effect it but how it will improve my performance and ability to train and recover. I have added a new run to the calander and of course have my 1st Team in Training run in June. I have registered for the Historic Marine Corps Half Marathon and will be running with my friend Brain. Brain is fighting Colon Cancer and this will be his first race post chemo this year and I couldnt think of a better person to run this race with.

I am happy to say I am still losing weight and tipped the scales at 237 pounds with a total loss of 47 pounds. I have set my goal at 190 and would like to be there by the end of they year. The plant based diet is going very well. There is a group of 6 now within the dept whom are plant strong and we have created our own facebook page and sharing our journey with the world. We have partnered with Rip of the Engine 2 Diet and our trying to help bring better health and fitness to the fire service. I am also very happy to say that Farica has lost 20 pounds on her own quest for health and has started walking on the treadmill as well.

https://www.facebook.com/#!/afde2

So monday it begins untill then,

Be safe, have fun and eat your Kale.

David

2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
May 20th - Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon, Fredricksburg, VA
June 3rd - Rock and Roll San Diego Marathon (TNT)
October 7th- Steamtown Marathon
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon? (unless I get into NYC)
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT)

Food links.

I often get questions about my plant based diet and wanted to share my most used resources. All of them have great face book pages.

http://engine2diet.com/
http://healthygirlskitchen.blogspot.com/
http://happyherbivore.com/
http://www.forksoverknives.com/


2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon
April 8th- Charlottesville 8K Road Race
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
June 3rd - Rock and Roll San Diego Marathon (TNT)
October 7th- Steamtown Marathon
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon? (unless I get into NYC)
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT)

Been a while

Well it has been about 6 months since ive written a post and some might think that is a good thing. I have been asked by several people about running, the plant based diet and how I have been able to get to this place and goals. I decided to continue writing this in hopes it continues to inspire people to find their way to fitness and a healthier life. I am a long way from my goal with much work to do but am a hell of alot closer then I was in july of 2011 when this all began.

In 2011 I ran 3 full marathons and lost close to 40 pounds. In 2012 so far I have run a 5k, half marathon and full marathon (in 1 weekend) and my goal is to lose another 40 pounds. I will be adding P90x to my routine along with running and have gone 100% plant based with my diet. I have 1) half Marathon, 1) 200 mile relay, and 4) Full Marathons for this years calander with maybe another 200 mile relay. I will do 2 of those Marathons with Team in Training again and am so very proud to have raised $9474.50 in 2011 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Also in 2012 I will be running for the Travis Manion Foundation http://www.travismanion.com/

This all started with a single step and I hope that I can inspire you to take your first step.

2012 Calander

March 17th- DC Rock and Roll Half Marathon
April 27th/28th- American Odyssey Relay- Gettysburg to DC (Travis Manion)
June 3rd - Rock and Roll San Diego Marathon (TNT)
October 7th- Steamtown Marathon
October 28th- Marine Corps Marathon? (unless I get into NYC)
November 4th NYC Marathon? (If I win a lottery pick)
January 13th- Disney World Marathon #3 (TNT)