Goodbye 305... Hello 610!

For those that have been following for a while, know that I've cherished my GPS wristwatch (Garmin Forerunner 305).  I bought the piece over two years ago (but unfortunately, it was out-dated even then).  Well, I was recently introduced to a Garmin 610 and was absolutely amazed at how much smaller and advanced the GPS wristwatches have become.  I had to get one...

The Garmin 610 is about the same size as an average everyday wristwatch (but with a touchscreen).  Uploads are a "snap" with the wireless USB antenna.  I don't want to go into excruciating detail now, but I'll provide a more detailed review once I get to play with it more.  My first impression was: "AWESOME!"

I am SO glad that I bought the 610.  I have a felling that it will give me some good miles.

Take care and stay safe.

Happy running and God bless!
"Fight the good fight, finish the race, and always keep faith"
2 Timothy 4:7

Early Bird Gets Worm

I am not a morning person.  I typically won't run in the morning unless it is a race day or I'm forced to do so (IE: PT).  Well, I was up at 4:00 am and couldn't get back to sleep so I decided to go for a morning run ("yawn").

It was cold, the temp was around 50f degrees and the grass was damp.  I was a bit sore from yesterday evening's 1.5 mile run but stretched out to warm up the legs.  I set off for what I thought was only going to be 3-5 miles but I pushed on to 10K.  It took me 3 miles to warm up and I started to bonk after mile 6.  I noticed that I was on a 10K PR pace and kept pushing.

I tapped the stop button on my GPS and clocked in at a 48:48; a new 10K PR (besting my prior time of 50:20, set on June 27th, 2011).  I was amazed!  All credit goes to my new shoes (and that Red Bull I drank to jump start my heart).

One thing is for sure, the shoes do not hold up well to damp grass (they were quickly saturated when I crossed over the neighbor's lawn).  Scotch Guard will do the trick!  Otherwise, my initial thoughts of the new lightweight running shoes: "you can pry them from my cold, dead hands!"

I'll try to attempt a longer run later this week.

Take care and stay safe!

Happy running and God bless! 

"Fight the good fight, finish the race, and always keep faith"
2 Timothy 4:7

New Shoe Trials

OK, I have been contemplating minimalist shoes for a long time now.  I just couldn't let go of what was working for me (my Brooks Trance 10's).  The downside to the Trances - they are heavy as bricks!  Well, I took the plunge today and bought a pair of Brooks Cadence lightweight running shoes.  I have to admit, I am not fond of the new colors but I can get over cosmetics...

Anyways, as for any pair of running shoes, be sure to get a foot analysis done prior to signing away your first-born (these newer shoes are expensive).  We shop at Dick's Sporting Goods (loyal customers, hint-hint: willingly open to sponsorship) and they offer a 90-day return on running shoes (just in case you develop running pains).  Plus, the wifey had some coupons and rewards points (which netted a savings of over $30).  Thanks babe!

I was giddy like a school boy on his first date, anxiously awaiting my return home to try them out!  I have to admit, I wish I would've tried these shoes out much sooner!  I am very impressed with the weight reduction and fit.  They felt weird at first, but they quickly adapted to my feet (and psyche) as I pushed off for a short 1.5 mile test trial.  I finished the run and glanced at my GPS; I was impressed!  It is still too soon to tell, but I think I am on to something bigger and better (like new PR's).  Well, my first run in the new shoes popped one of my quickest 1.5 mile run times since my 2nd knee surgery (10:50).  It would be nice to get back in the 9's again...  We'll see.

I'll provide a more detailed analysis of these shoes when I log more time and distance in them.  Also, I should receive my new GPS wristwatch (Garmin 610) tomorrow (thanks to advice from a new found friend)!  I can't wait to wrap her around my wrist (the GPS, "get your minds out of the gutter!").  Pics of the new shoes:

Take care and enjoy the Fall!

Happy running and God bless!
"Fight the good fight, finish the race, and always keep faith"
2 Timothy 4:7

Fall 2012

I was able to get out and snap some Fall photos today.  I cannot describe the colors in words...  It's just beautiful!

 "Ready, set, go!" 

Old Man's Beard 

 

Frosty

Firecracker 

Back to the club house

Enjoy the Fall colors, wherever you are!  Take care and stay safe.

Happy running and God bless! 

"Fight the good fight, finish the race, and always keep faith" 

2 Timothy 4:7

2013 Race Schedule

OK, 2013 is rapidly approaching!  I was only able to run one event this year (2012 USAF Marathon, deployed location) but will attempt 4-5 races next year!

So far, I am registered for the:
Austin Half Marathon (17 Feb 2013)
Oklahoma City Memorial Half Marathon (28 Apr 2013)

I will register for the following (once registration is open):
USAF Half Marathon (Sep 2013)
Tulsa Route 66 Half Marathon (Nov 2013)

My goals for next year are:
750 mile distance
Half Marathon PR
Not getting hurt

Take care, hope to see you on the roads/trails!

Happy running and God bless!
"Fight the good fight, finish the race, and always keep faith"
2 Timothy 4:7

7.2 miles

I'm home!  And just in time; the fall colors are SO beautiful (I'll try to post some pics soon).

Well like I said, I just returned home from a 6-month hiatus overseas.  I learned a lot and made some awesome new friends.  The temperature here in Ohio is 30f degrees cooler than where I was, and today's workout is a testament of what difference the weather has on my training.

I was trying to run an average of 12-18 miles per week while deployed.  Temps hovered in the 98f-105f degree range (surprisingly enough, at night).   I quickly acclimated to the heat, but it was brutal!  I averaged anywhere between 9:30-11:00 min/mile pace.  Blah...

Earlier today, I ran one of my quickest 10K's to date (50:44, 8:10 avg pace) in 62f degrees (despite sporty winds, blowing at 17 and gusting to 28mph).  I typically prefer 50f degrees but today's 62f was much appreciated (vs. 92f from last week).  I finished up with a 1.0 mile cool down run...  Total of 7.2 mils on the day.  Not bad for my 1st run since my return!  Blessed and thankful

Anyways, the big take-away is that I am home.  I'll be sure to post more often and also review a few more gadgets (I am contemplating a new running gps wristwatch and also a pair of minimalist running shoes).

Thanks for stopping by.  Take care and stay safe!

Happy running and God bless!
"Fight the good fight, finish the race, and always keep faith"
2 Timothy 4:7

PT Test complete!

Booyah, another PT Test in the books, and I am good for another year!

I was a bit disappointed though...  I have been training for a 95 (or better) but just bonked today.  I got about 4 hours of sleep last night and couldn't get in a nap after work (I just couldn't fall asleep).  I tested at 9 pm and it was still about 94f degrees.  Plus, it was a bit humid today (which made matters worse).

Oh well, at least I scored above a 90 and won't have test for another year!

Take care and stay safe!  My next running post should be from HOME!!!

Happy running and God bless!
"Fight the good fight, finish the race, and always keep faith"
2 Timothy 4:7

Gear Review: Amphipod Handheld Runners Bottle

Hydration is a critical component in running performance and prevents heat-related illnesses and dehydration (which could ultimately lead to injury).  I've tried a variety of bottles, waste packs, and containers ranging from your ordinary commercial bottled water to a full-blown Camelbak.  One thing that I've learned is, I hate running with a pack (both on my back and waste). So, I ran across Amphipod's little gadget (no pun intended) and decided to give it a whirl.  

Amphipod has a lot of hydration products to choose from.  One of my favorites (which has replaced my waste pack) is the handheld runners bottle.  The one I use (similar to the one pictured below) is form-fitted to your hand and includes a neoprene band to provide a secure and snug fit.  It also has a zippered pouch for your ID, some cash and keys.  I ran with this particular item during the 2011 USAF Marathon and it survived the 26.2 mile test!  It holds 20 ounces of liquid (comfortably) which is ideal for mid-level distances and refills are a snap!  It is easy to clean and goes for around $20.    

(Amphipod handheld bottle)

 (Click image for full size)

Happy running and God bless!
"Fight the good fight, finish the race, and always keep faith"
2 Timothy 4:7