2010 Running Log

Distance:2.0Miles
Location:Gym
Duration: 17:54
Finish Time: 3:08pm
Monthly Total: 15.5Miles
Yearly Total: 620.6Miles
Yearly Duration: 105.50 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:4.0Miles
Location:South Mountain/National Trail 108 degrees
Duration: 38:45
Finish Time: 2:18pm
Monthly Total: 13.5Miles
Yearly Total: 618.6Miles
Yearly Duration: 105.20 Hours

Decided to run a couple miles at the mountain and that was not the greatest idea but the urge pushed me out the door. It was extremely hot and though I hydrated it still caught up to me. I wanted to get some uphill running in so I took a mostly uphill 2 mile out and 2 mile back trail that left me dead by the end. I am somewhat encouraged though by the conditioning considering the lack of sleep.

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.3Miles
Location: Treadmill
Duration: 17:30
Finish Time: 3:21pm
Monthly Total: 9.5Miles
Yearly Total: 614.6Miles
Yearly Duration: 104.60 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.4Miles
Location: Treadmill
Duration: 20:08
Finish Time: 6:31pm
Monthly Total: 7.2Miles
Yearly Total: 612.3Miles
Yearly Duration: 104.30 Hours

Still feeling the effects of the lack of sleep. I can only hope that this is cleared up soon so that I can stay on pace for the rest of this month and the remaining year. I hopefully will be in good shape when I head up to Flagstaff and Prescott for the coming week.

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.4Miles
Location: Treadmill
Duration: 20:02
Finish Time: 6:32pm
Monthly Total: 4.8Miles
Yearly Total: 609.9 Miles
Yearly Duration: 104.00 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.4Miles
Location: Treadmill
Duration: 18:01
Finish Time: 6:47pm
Monthly Total: 2.4Miles
Yearly Total: 607.5 Miles
Yearly Duration: 103.70 Hours

Decided to go out fast in the first mile, 6:25, and thought about trying for my 5k record but the lack of sleep caught up quickly and I settled for a sub 7 minute 2.4 mile run.

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: Treadmill
Duration: 20:03
Finish Time: 6:22pm
Monthly Total: 78.8 Miles
Yearly Total: 605.1 Miles
Yearly Duration: 103.40 Hours

This past month was up and down. I started to finally feel healthy on a more constant basis to begin the month and then as the month ended I came down with a severe(which is still with me)case of sleeplessness which doctors so far are unable to diagnose. I have slept an average of about 2 hours per night over the last nearly 2 weeks. This has severely dampened my energy levels, the rest is history. I am hoping to get past this and look forward to upping the mileage and the time over the next month. Wait and see right?

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: Treadmill
Duration: 20:47
Finish Time: 6:21pm
Monthly Total: 76.6 Miles
Yearly Total: 602.9 Miles
Yearly Duration: 103.10 Hours

Hit 10.0 incline on the treadmill at the gym. Trying to hit the hills really hard to get my legs used to big climbing. I was pretty impressed with the fact that I could run a little over 9 minute mile at such a high incline. Hopefully I can stay healthy enough to continue.

2010 Running Log

Distance:6.4 Miles
Location: Treadmill
Duration: 60:00
Finish Time: 8:59pm
Monthly Total: 74.4 Miles
Yearly Total: 600.7 Miles
Yearly Duration: 102.80 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: Treadmill
Duration: 20:03
Finish Time: 7:14pm
Monthly Total: 68.0 Miles
Yearly Total: 594.3 Miles
Yearly Duration: 101.80 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:6.2 Miles
Location: Treadmill
Duration: 48:46
Finish Time: 7:13pm
Monthly Total: 65.8 Miles
Yearly Total: 592.1 Miles
Yearly Duration: 101.50 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:6.0 Miles
Location: Treadmill
Duration: 52:24
Finish Time: 3:19pm
Monthly Total: 59.6 Miles
Yearly Total: 585.90 Miles
Yearly Duration: 100.70 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: Treadmill
Duration: 19:33
Finish Time: 1:34pm
Monthly Total: 53.6 Miles
Yearly Total: 579.90 Miles
Yearly Duration: 99.80 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.3 Miles
Location: Neighborhood
Duration: 18:28
Finish Time: 7:01pm
Monthly Total: 51.4 Miles
Yearly Total: 577.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 99.40 Hours

Jaunt around the concrete path encircling the townhomes. It was hot as hell but I got through in sub eight minute miles.

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: Gym
Duration: 19:28
Finish Time: 5:26pm
Monthly Total: 49.1 Miles
Yearly Total: 575.40 Miles
Yearly Duration: 99.10 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: Gym
Duration: 19:46
Finish Time: 8:41pm
Monthly Total: 46.9 Miles
Yearly Total: 573.20 Miles
Yearly Duration: 98.80 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: Gym
Duration: 17:56
Finish Time: 7:18pm
Monthly Total: 44.7 Miles
Yearly Total: 571.00 Miles
Yearly Duration: 98.50 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: Gym
Duration: 16:59
Finish Time: 8:01pm
Monthly Total: 42.5 Miles
Yearly Total: 568.80 Miles
Yearly Duration: 98.20 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: South Mountain Park/Desert Classic Trail
Duration: 19:48
Finish Time: 8:54am
Monthly Total: 40.3 Miles
Yearly Total: 566.60 Miles
Yearly Duration: 97.90 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:7.2 Miles
Location: South Mountain Park/Desert Classic Trail
Duration: 1:13:18
Finish Time: 9:56am
Monthly Total: 38.1 Miles
Yearly Total: 564.40 Miles
Yearly Duration: 97.50 Hours

Today was a train wreck out on the dirt of South Mountain. I knew I would probably be a little tired from little sleep and also the fact that I had run 4.4 miles at 7:50 pace late the night before but little could of prepared me for how drained I became on my run back from the water towers at the park. I started with the intention of running 11 miles, what a joke that was, and ended up scratching and clawing my way to only 7.2, to the water tower and back, but it wasnt just that it was cut short I mean I was physically spent which just shows that I need to get into better shape both physically and mentally as well as bring my nutrition levels up immensely. I cant keep putting myself into positions that I know I can prevent. I know that it has been a long week this week but it is still no excuse for me not eating right, hydrating right and getting enough rest. I need to get my shit together, period.

2010 Running Log

Distance:4.4 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 34:33
Finish Time: 7:59pm
Monthly Total: 31.7 Miles
Yearly Total: 558.00 Miles
Yearly Duration: 96.30 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 19:50
Finish Time: 8:56pm
Monthly Total: 27.3 Miles
Yearly Total: 553.60 Miles
Yearly Duration: 95.80 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 16:03
Finish Time: 12:50pm
Monthly Total: 25.1 Miles
Yearly Total: 551.40 Miles
Yearly Duration: 95.50 Hours

Today was a somewhat surprisingly good day, running wise. I was able to PR my mile time with a 5:54 mile. I know, not very impressive considering right? I was mainly surprised because of how much I beat my prior PR(6:10) by and by the fact that I have been in a funk running wise ever since I had the hip and ankle problems these last few months. So in that aspect I was definitely caught off guard. Ill take it though. I got some insoles from RoadRunner Sports that are supposed to correct my ankle problem but as of this first run it did not correct it. I am thinking of returning them and just getting ankle supports for runners as a preventer, I think that will fix my problem. Moving on, hopefully it cools down a bit and I may run tonight also just to catch up, we'll see.

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 15:30
Finish Time: 10:32am
Monthly Total: 22.9 Miles
Yearly Total: 549.20 Miles
Yearly Duration: 95.20 Hours

Legs are really starting to feel good. If I can only get my right ankle fixed I will be perfect.

2010 Running Log

Distance:8.0 Miles
Location: South Mountain Park/Desert Classic Trail
Duration: 1:10:04
Finish Time: 9:47am
Monthly Total: 20.7 Miles
Yearly Total: 547.50 Miles
Yearly Duration: 94.90 Hours

This morning was a perfect day for hitting the trails so I suited up and headed out to the park. It was indeed ideal for running with many mountain bikers also carving up dirt. I ran into a head wind for what seemed like the majority of the run which was not my ideal conditions but overall I had a decent run that came in six minutes faster than my time I had set as a goal. A brisk wind kept it pretty cool throughout and the terrain heading up to the water tanks on the south side of the mountain was pretty soft as I got further out. Overall a good run.

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 16:41
Finish Time: 12:18PM
Monthly Total: 12.7 Miles
Yearly Total: 539.50 Miles
Yearly Duration: 93.80 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:2.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 15:49
Finish Time: 4:52PM
Monthly Total: 10.5 Miles
Yearly Total: 537.30 Miles
Yearly Duration: 93.50 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance:4.3 Miles
Location: South Mountain Park/Desert Classic Trail 112 degrees
Duration: 39:56
Finish Time: 5:35PM
Monthly Total: 8.3 Miles
Yearly Total: 535.10 Miles
Yearly Duration: 93.20 Hours

So today I made the mistake of thinking that I could run 8 miles at South Mountain with only a 20oz bottle of Gatorade. I should probably be taken to an institution right? Correct. What was I thinking considering I had not run in the heat in quite some time let alone up the jagged trails of South Mountain. So throwing in the fact that it was 112 degrees is just an afterthought. So I made it just under five miles before I realized that not only was I completely out of water but I also was extremely dehydrated and tired, and there was no shelter from the 112 heat. I decided to head back to the truck and hit up the mountain another time which was a good thing considering I could barely run more than 2 minutes at a time on the trails coming back without stopping for a breather. It was brutal, and it is just another testament to the Arizona elements which are always in play.

2010 Running Log

Distance:4.0 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 31:34
Finish Time: 6:46PM
Monthly Total: 4.0 Miles
Yearly Total: 530.80 Miles
Yearly Duration: 92.60 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 24:21
Finish Time: 6:54PM
Monthly Total: 79.10 Miles
Yearly Total: 526.80 Miles
Yearly Duration: 92.10 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 27:16
Finish Time: 6:26PM
Monthly Total: 75.90 Miles
Yearly Total: 523.60 Miles
Yearly Duration: 94.70 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 26:12
Finish Time: 6:43PM
Monthly Total: 72.70 Miles
Yearly Total: 520.40 Miles
Yearly Duration: 94.20 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.5 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 30:17
Finish Time: 6:02PM
Monthly Total: 69.50 Miles
Yearly Total: 517.20 Miles
Yearly Duration: 93.70 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 10.0 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill/Mesa Neighborhood
Duration: 1:07
Finish Time: 6:34PM
Monthly Total: 66.00 Miles
Yearly Total: 513.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 93.20 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 4.0 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 32:31
Finish Time: 6:34PM
Monthly Total: 56.0 Miles
Yearly Total: 503.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 92.10 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.0 Miles
Location: Mesa Streets/98 degrees
Duration: 2454
Finish Time: 9:23PM
Monthly Total: 52.0 Miles
Yearly Total: 499.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 91.60 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.3 Miles
Location: Mesa Streets/102 degrees
Duration: 28;23
Finish Time: 9:23PM
Monthly Total: 49.0 Miles
Yearly Total: 496.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 91.10 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 5.7 Miles
Location: Mesa Streets/110 degrees
Duration: 51:54
Finish Time: 7:13PM
Monthly Total: 45.7 Miles
Yearly Total: 493.40 Miles
Yearly Duration: 90.60 Hours

I decided to run today along the canals and streets throughout west mesa. Bad idea. One word......HELL! It was 110 degrees and I am no David Goggins so it tore me apart.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 6.0 Miles
Location: Gym
Duration: 50:50
Finish Time: 7:44PM
Monthly Total: 40.0 Miles
Yearly Total: 487.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 89.60 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.0 Miles
Location: Gym
Duration: 26:02
Finish Time: 8:14PM
Monthly Total: 34.0 Miles
Yearly Total: 481.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 88.70 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 6.0 Miles
Location: Gym/Neighborhood
Duration: 49:48
Finish Time: 6:57PM
Monthly Total: 31.0 Miles
Yearly Total: 478.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 88.20 Hours

Picketpost Mountain Run/Hike

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.0 Miles
Location: Picketpost Mountain, Superior, Arizona 95 degrees
Duration: 27:21
Finish Time: 9:01AM
Monthly Total: 25.0 Miles
Yearly Total: 472.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 87.30 Hours

I decided to go on an early hike with a friend of mine this morning at Picketpost Mountain, which is a mountain just outside of Superior, Arizona, an old mining town east of Phoenix. I ran along the trail leading back from the hike along steep canyon walls and down through dry, waving grass fields. It was nice but with a lack of water I was more running to the solace of my truck than for the sheer love of running. In all though it was a beautiful hike and a beautiful run and my legs are finally starting to feel 100%.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 4.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 36:21
Finish Time: 5:39PM
Monthly Total: 22.0 Miles
Yearly Total: 469.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 86.90 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 10.3 Miles
Location: Mesa/Tempe, streets, canals 107 degrees
Duration: 1:40
Finish Time: 8:07PM
Monthly Total: 17.8 Miles
Yearly Total: 466.50 Miles
Yearly Duration: 86.30 Hours

I decided to try my hand at catching up in the month today so I put in 10.3 miles throughout the cities of mesa and tempe. I felt ok other than the fact that I got multiple rashes on my legs and upper armpits from rubbing for over an hour and a half. I felt good for stretches but I will admit that I was physically drained the last few miles and need to improve. It was 107 degrees when I started the run so that had to play a big part, and I ran out of water before the midway point but all in all I realized that I just need to get my stamina and endurance back in order to do these longer runs without killing my body. I will push forth and I will get it back.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 4.5 Miles
Location: Oracle, Arizona/Mt. Lemmon
Duration: 50:00
Finish Time: 3:56PM
Monthly Total: 7.5 Miles
Yearly Total: 456.20 Miles
Yearly Duration: 84.70 Hours

This past three day weekend myself and Michelle's family traveled to the town of Oracle which is a little northeast of Tucson for a Fourth of July excursion at their timeshare they own in the area. I was able to get out and get a refreshing trail run in at the summit of Mt. Lemmon and it was quite a treat. I had never been to Mt. Lemmon so I knew I would enjoy it based solely on that aspect but that along with the long scenic drive to the top to the town of Summerhaven was purely awesome. I was able to run from the ski lift drop spot a few miles from the summit, up along a packed gravel road with a very steep grade. I was encouraged by my stamina especially considering I had never run at any altitude even close to 9000'. The vistas up top were unreal and kept the pain of the run at a minimum. My quads were gone once I had gotten to the summit but the sheer beauty of the run was well worth it. At the top we hiked 3 miles round trip in what also would have been almost perfect trails down to Lemmon Rock and a bypass of the Arizona Trail. I will never forget the preserved beauty of Mt. Lemmon. Hope for more of these adventures soon.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.0 Miles
Location: Gym/treadmill
Duration: 25:01
Finish Time: 2:48PM
Monthly Total: 3.0 Miles
Yearly Total: 451.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 83.90 Hours

Western States 100

For those who don't know anything about this race follow the link for info, but for those who do Wow! What a race! Reading the race logs/blogs and watching clips, both audio and video, of this race.....all I can say is Wow! Congrats to the front pack for turning this race into a show of "pure guts" as Prefontaine would say.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 2.7 Miles
Location: Mesa Community College Campus
Duration: 23:36
Finish Time: 7:03PM
Monthly Total: 84.1 Miles
Yearly Total: 448.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 83.40 Hours

Took a stroll around the campus again. It was a pleasant evening. I was even able to catch a baseball game that was being played on one of the outer ball fields. The sun was beautiful and plenty of birds kept my company throughout the run. Nice.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 2.9 Miles
Location: Mesa Community College Campus
Duration: 26:05
Finish Time: 9:20PM
Monthly Total: 81.4 Miles
Yearly Total: 446.00 Miles
Yearly Duration: 83.00 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 4.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 37:08
Finish Time: 8:10PM
Monthly Total: 78.5 Miles
Yearly Total: 443.10 Miles
Yearly Duration: 82.60 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 6.0 Miles
Location: Chandler/Tempe canal system 107 degrees
Duration: 53:42
Finish Time: 4:58PM
Monthly Total: 74.3 Miles
Yearly Total: 438.90 Miles
Yearly Duration: 82.00 Hours

Ran today in the sweltering heat and it definitely took a toll. I could not shake the temp and ended up calling my run after only 6 miles instead of the 9.5 that I originally had in mind. I feel good though, especially my hip which has felt terrible for the last month now. I am very excited to start getting some 30 mile weeks again.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 29:43
Finish Time: 5:57PM
Monthly Total: 68.3 Miles
Yearly Total: 432.90 Miles
Yearly Duration: 81.10 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 27:54
Finish Time: 6:29PM
Monthly Total: 65.1 Miles
Yearly Total: 429.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 80.60 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 4.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 33:25
Finish Time: 6:13pm
Monthly Total: 61.9 Miles
Yearly Total: 426.50 Miles
Yearly Duration: 80.10 Hours

My legs are finally coming back to me it seems. The hip is getting better. Hopefully this persists.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 28:00
Finish Time: 6:57pm
Monthly Total: 57.7 Miles
Yearly Total: 422.30 Miles
Yearly Duration: 79.60 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.0 Miles
Location: Pinetop, Arizona/Trails throughout Porter Mountain
Duration: 30:15
Finish Time: 12:03pm
Monthly Total: 54.5 Miles
Yearly Total: 419.10 Miles
Yearly Duration: 79.10 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 27:06
Finish Time: 6:20pm
Monthly Total: 51.5 Miles
Yearly Total: 416.10 Miles
Yearly Duration: 78.60 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 27:31
Finish Time: 7:56pm
Monthly Total: 48.3 Miles
Yearly Total: 412.90 Miles
Yearly Duration: 78.10 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 26:39
Finish Time: 5:19pm
Monthly Total: 45.1 Miles
Yearly Total: 409.70 Miles
Yearly Duration: 77.70 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 27:59
Finish Time: 10:34pm
Monthly Total: 41.9 Miles
Yearly Total: 406.50 Miles
Yearly Duration: 77.20 Hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.3 Miles
Location: South Mountain Park/Pima Canyon Trails
Duration: 32:36
Finish Time: 12:22pm
Monthly Total: 38.7 Miles
Yearly Total: 403.30 Miles
Yearly Duration: 76.70 Hours

Ran at South Mountain Park again this morning from Pima Canyon Trailhead. The 85 degree weather was a definite plus but the legs just were not into it. I am feeling still a little stiff and my upper hip is still aching. I dont know if I should maybe give it a rest but it does not seem to be getting any better. I think I am gonna spend a little more time stretching before my runs. Hopefully I will have a better run tomorrow.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 27:42
Finish Time: 5:58pm
Monthly Total: 35.4 Miles
Yearly Total: 400.00 Miles
Yearly Duration: 76.20 Hours

400 mile milestone!

2010 Running Log

Distance: 6.4 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 54:00
Finish Time: 8:35pm
Monthly Total: 32.2 Miles
Yearly Total: 396.80 Miles
Yearly Duration: 75.70 Hours

Tough run on the treadmill. Winded, tired, and most of all not interested but pushed through and finished in a decent time so I was happy.

Must Read Post on Barefoot Running

I found this on the ultra-marathon athlete Anton Krupicka's running blog at Running Times. It is both interesting in voice and substance and very well written. Follow the link here.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 26:04
Finish Time: 6:59am
Monthly Total: 25.8 miles
Yearly Total: 390.40 miles
Yearly Duration: 74.80 hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 27:06
Finish Time: 7:47am
Monthly Total: 22.6 miles
Yearly Total: 387.20 miles
Yearly Duration: 74.35 hours

Ran at the gym and had a decent run but I could feel a little discomfort in my hip again. I should be able to go to the mountain again on this coming wednesday so I am looking forward to this.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.4Miles
Location: South Mountain Park/95 degrees
Duration: 32:11
Finish Time: 11:03am
Monthly Total: 19.4 miles
Yearly Total: 384.00 miles
Yearly Duration: 73.90 hours

Finally today I was able to get outside for some trail running at South Mountain. I took the trail from the Guadalupe/Pima Canyon entrance and soon found that running the trails from that end are not ideal because the map is not accurate which threw off my running route leaving me running down the side of the mountain on two different occasions to connect to a trail that I knew would lead me back to the parking lot. It was hot, 95 degrees, and I decided to not bring water because I thought I had mapped out a good route that would last roughly 45 mins, but in the end I nearly got lost and knew that without water I needed to reconnect to the original trail and get back to the car. Overall though the run was good and I am looking forward to getting back to running on the dirt.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 26:56
Finish Time: 1:51pm
Monthly Total: 16.0 miles
Yearly Total: 380.60 miles
Yearly Duration: 73.35 hours

Hello there! It has been quite some time since I have posted any musings on my runs here so today I am officially back! I have been under the weather for the last 2 weeks almost and have been unsuccessful in finding anything positive about my running. Now, as of today I feel as I am finally 100% again. I will keep you posted.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 27:07
Finish Time: 6:01pm
Monthly Total: 12.8 miles
Yearly Total: 377.40 miles
Yearly Duration: 72.90 hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 27:37
Finish Time: 7:09pm
Monthly Total: 9.6 miles
Yearly Total: 374.20 miles
Yearly Duration: 72.40 hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 27:41
Finish Time: 8:29pm
Monthly Total: 6.4 miles
Yearly Total: 371.00 miles
Yearly Duration: 71.90 hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.2Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 27:20
Finish Time: 7:51pm
Monthly Total: 3.2 miles
Yearly Total: 367.8 miles
Yearly Duration: 71.45 hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.1Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 26:13
Finish Time: 4:17pm
Monthly Total: 78.6 miles
Yearly Total: 364.6 miles
Yearly Duration: 71.00 hours

Distance: 3.0Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 26:00
Finish Time: 3:26pm
Monthly Total: 75.5 miles
Yearly Total: 361.5 miles
Yearly Duration: 70.55 hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.6Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 34:31
Finish Time: 5:59pm
Monthly Total: 72.5 miles
Yearly Total: 358.5 miles
Yearly Duration: 70.10 hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.0Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 26:15
Finish Time: 6:17pm
Monthly Total: 68.9 miles
Yearly Total: 354.9 miles
Yearly Duration: 60.45 hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 6.0Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 51:57
Finish Time: 7:47pm
Monthly Total: 65.9 miles
Yearly Total: 351.9 miles
Yearly Duration: 60.00 hours

Okay, so I have been a major slacker over the last 5 days and it has all caught up to me. I have had a re-occuring knee and hip problem that has hindered my speed on my runs for about 2 weeks now and it left me kinda drained and as a result I was unable to get motivated to run this past weekend in San Diego where I was taking a short vacation. It was a very unfortunate decision because the San Diego coast is ridiculously beautiful especially Torrey Pines with its rugged, rolling cliffs, dotted with gnarled pines. Oh well, I was able to get in a 6 miler though today that felt a little better so hopefully I can now gradually get back to running 25 miles per week and get back in the swing of things.

San Diego Trip.....

Let the fun begin!

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.0Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 25:36
Finish Time: 6:07pm
Monthly Total: 59.9 miles
Yearly Total: 345.9 miles
Yearly Duration: 57.15 hours

My knee seems to slowly be getting better. I think that getting on some soft trails will help with the discomfort. I am heading to beautiful San Diego this weekend and I am stoked at the thought of getting to run along the Pacific. I will post, possibly from there, and recant my stories for all when I get back on Tuesday.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.0Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 24:57
Finish Time: 6:49pm
Monthly Total: 56.9 miles
Yearly Total: 342.9 miles
Yearly Duration: 56.70 hours

Distance: 3.0Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 25:27
Finish Time: 6:09pm
Monthly Total: 53.9 miles
Yearly Total: 339.9 miles
Yearly Duration: 56.20 hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 6.0
MilesLocation: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 57:12
Finish Time: 8:18pm
Monthly Total: 50.9 miles
Yearly Total: 336.9 miles
Yearly Duration: 55.75 hours

My knees are finally coming back to me so this coming week should be good as far as getting back on track this week. Very happy with the possibilities.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.0 Miles
Location: Canal, west Mesa
Duration: 26:02
Finish Time: 8:18pm
Monthly Total: 44.9 miles
Yearly Total: 330.9 miles
Yearly Duration: 54.75 hours

So I decided against running at South Mountain today because I may be able to get a good mountain run in when I go north to a town called Jake's Corner up in rim country tomorrow. So I ran along the canal in Mesa in the sweltering 92 degree weather. I must admit that I was not used to the heat whatsoever and it showed immediately. I was drained about a half mile into the run and decided that my ambitious 5 miles was gonna be only 3 today. Also, I am experiencing some knee soreness in my left knee right above the knee cap that has been there for a few days now and seems to be getting worse by the hour. I dont know just yet if I banged it on something or if its from overuse but the next few days should be interesting to see if the pain subsides or if it sticks around. I will keep it posted. I am hoping to have pics from tomorrows trip to the north so I will definitely post them.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.0 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 25:59
Finish Time: 8:18pm
Monthly Total: 41.9 miles
Yearly Total: 327.9 miles
Yearly Duration: 54.20 hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 2.0 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmil
Duration: 18:00
Finish Time: 6:09am
Monthly Total: 38.9 miles
Yearly Total: 324.9 miles
Yearly Duration: 53.75 hours

2010 Running Log

Distance: 2.0 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmil
Duration: 17:56
Finish Time: 8:17am
Monthly Total: 36.9 miles
Yearly Total: 322.9 miles
Yearly Duration: 53.50 hours

I will make this quick because Im in a hurry. Ran an easy 2 on the treadmill. Hip on left side is giving me some problems that hopefully dissolves but other than that just ran a few because I didnt want to put too much strain on my hip. Should be fine tomorrow.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 6.1 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmil
Duration: 50:26
Finish Time: 6:17am
Monthly Total: 34.9 miles
Yearly Total: 320.9 miles
Yearly Duration: 53.15 hours

I decided to run a longer run with variations thrown in so that I can get better at running at the inclines that will challenge me when I run on the technical trails. I feel I am getting better at my stamina when it comes to hitting the hills whereas in the recent past I had some problems with my breathing, etc. I really am psyched to get to some more colorful trails this summer for sure so this will definitely help. Good run, good time, feel good.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.0 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmil
Duration: 27:56
Finish Time: 11:49am
Monthly Total: 28.8 miles
Yearly Total: 314.8 miles
Yearly Duration: 52.20 hours

Three easy miles on the treadmill with a pretty tough first mile with a 6.0 incline. I really want to get more conditioned at running the hills and running in a more physical manner if I really would like to run more in the trails. Overall, I was happy with the run and look forward to more hills as opposed to the same ol' flat surfaces of my past.

Daily Inspiration

"The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start."
-John Bingham, running speaker and writer

South Mountain Run/East End

Some pics from my run at South Mountain Park. As you can see it was another hot day in the desert with not much shelter but I was able to find some in an abandoned ranger station situated in the middle of the canyon bed. The terrain was tough in some patches and the run was mainly uphill but it kept me awake and was good all in all.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 4.2 Miles
Location: South Mountain Park
Duration: 38:29
Finish Time: 1:38pm
Monthly Total: 25.8 miles
Yearly Total: 311.8 miles
Yearly Duration: 50.75 hours

After spending 15 minutes trying to find the entrance into the park that everyone said was "just at the end of Guadalupe Road. It pretty Much dead ends there!", I finally made it into South Mountain Park but this time from the Guadalupe/East end entrance. I must say that it is definitely easier to reach it by the 24th street entrance but anyhow, after strapping on my water belt which I figured I needed because the temperatures were by this time in the mid 90's, I found my way to the park map and mapped out a 4.2 mile stretch that sliced up and down through the east end. I knew that the heat would limit me today so I set out with a goal of about 45 min's of running. I must say that the trails on this end for the most part have a better running surface than the ones on say National Trail in the central portion of the park so that made the run a little easier for some portion. One difference on this side of the park is the trails just seem to jut off in all directions at almost every step it seemed. I kept telling myself to not get lost inside the deep canyons especially with only 20 ounces of water on me. Luckily I stayed on track. There was a lookout which I dont have the name on just yet that served as sort of a summit of sorts for the run, which I got to high above the canyon walls and this lookout was preceded by a steady climb up steep singletrack of what seemed like about 10-12 minutes. I was very pleased with my navigating this since it was no easy task and even took some snapshots at the top of it. The trail was loaded with mountain bikers, walkers, and runners which came as a suprise considering how hot it was but in all there were no complaints on my part. I would like to run this area a little more so I should be back here in not too long.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.0 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 29:41
Finish Time: 6:31pm
Monthly Total: 21.6 miles
Yearly Total: 307.6 miles
Yearly Duration: 50.05 hours

Three very slow miles on the treadmill. I didnt want to push it with any reasonably high pace since yesterdays run did a number on my ankles and knee with all the rocky terrain and elevation gain, so I just kept it easy. It was a nice run, legs feeling great.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.3 Miles
Location: South Mountain Park/Mormon Loop and National Trails
Duration: 31:27
Finish Time: 6:26pm
Monthly Total: 18.6 miles
Yearly Total: 304.6 miles
Yearly Duration: 49.35 hours

Today I ran at South Mountain for a few miles with my friend Nate. It was quite a challenging run that had a little technical as well as vertical, elevated stretches that definitely left me winded in the end. I took a right at the "Y" atop Two Peaks at the top of the Mormon Trailhead and took the Mormon Loop trail this time around instead of my usual run up through National Trail. It was well worth the changeup because it was a beautiful pathway with alot of steep climbs and narrow singletrack trails. I even came across a pretty good size coyote atop one of the first accents, he looked, smiled and went on his way. Nathan and I wanted to get in a good few miles to be back down for the Suns game so I had to cut it a little short but it ended up being very effective and it was a great time in the 98 degree weather.

Another interesting blog to follow

Here is another blog to follow from Anton Krupicka. His blog is so straightforward and detailed that it is a must for anyone interested in following a much traveled competitive runner. Enjoy, I think you will.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 6.0 Miles
Location: Gym/Treadmill
Duration: 48:27
Finish Time: 5:46pm
Monthly Total: 15.3 miles
Yearly Total: 301.3 miles
Yearly Duration: 49.05 hours

Ran 6 hard miles on the treadmill today that had me feeling pretty good considering I was pushing it somewhat. I really felt good but I know that I need to start eating better with both more carbs and better hydration without sugars. I know what I need to do and I just gotta do it. I am happy so far with my first few days and am looking to run the mountain tomorrow so I should have pics available tomorrow night. I checked on Anton Krupicka and his results in the Miwok 100K in Marin County, California and sure enough, he won!!! I have been following his daily runs for quite a while now and I was very proud of his win. Good job.

Daily Music Link

Here is a new song from the upcoming High Violet album, due May 11, from The National. It's such a great running song, in my opinion.

Papago Park Run, Tempe

Here are some snaps from Papago Park on Sunday. There were some scenic views like the shot through the rock of the Phoenix Zoo and surrounding Phoenix. Also a couple shots of the canal heading into Tempe, and a makeshift hut smack dab in the middle of nowhere. It was a nice run nonetheless.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 6.3 Miles
Location: Papago Park, Tempe
Duration: 58:57
Finish Time: 12:00pm
Monthly Total: 9.3 miles
Yearly Total: 295.3 miles
Yearly Duration: 48.20 hours

My run today was at Papago Park in Tempe. It's nestled between Sky Harbor Intl. Airport and the city of Scottsdale. It felt good to actually get out and run the trails again which this run had, and get some sun and fresh air running through the lungs. It was not too hot, probably 78 or so, so the run could of been extended even longer had I wanted it to. I ran for a little under an hour and my run took me through short up and down packed trails and over rock formations that protrude like monuments in the desert, as well as part of the run leading through a frisbee golf course that seemed to lie in the middle of nowhere. It was a good run that was both scenic and somewhat adventurous since I had no idea where I was for a portion of the run which made it more of an adventure. I seen multiple lizards, ground squirrels, and even a jackrabbit but I was unable to get a snapshot of him which left me a little disappointed. I will post the pics on my next post so you can get an idea of the adventure. I am looking forward to the runs this month.

2010 Running Log

Distance: 3.0 Miles
Location: Gym
Duration: 24:06
Finish Time: 11:06am
Monthly Total: 3 miles
Yearly Total: 292.0 miles
Yearly Duration: 47.55 hours

Short and sweet. Medium paced 3 miler at the gym. Felt good. Hoping for a productive month so lets see what happens.