Time: 42:59
Distance: 10.02 km
Pace: 4:17/km
Map
I didn't have too many intentions to run this evening, but some wear test shoes arrived to the office while I was out visiting accounts in Boston. I arrived home to find two fresh new pairs of Karhus ready for some vigorous wear testing duties in the next weeks and months. I ended up jogging over to the Salem Common and met up with the No Rest For The Wicked group that meets every Thursday night. I put the shoes to the test on a slightly up tempo 5k that I did mostly with Billy Jackson. I sometimes run a light workout like 2 mins on, 1 min off, but tonight was just to put the shoes through an honest run on tired legs.
Showing posts with label karhu. Show all posts
Showing posts with label karhu. Show all posts
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Lucky Sevens
Time: 49:50
Distance: 12.70 km
Pace: 3:55/km
Map
I spent most of the day at Fleet Feet Rochester's second location talking to staff about Karhu. Before taking off for the day, I laced up the shoes and headed out on a run from the store called "Lucky Sevens" as it is supposedly 7.77 miles. I kept the pace honest and thought the wind would be more of a factor in the neighborhoods. I ended up clipping along the second half of the run with splits under 3:44/km.
Distance: 12.70 km
Pace: 3:55/km
Map
I spent most of the day at Fleet Feet Rochester's second location talking to staff about Karhu. Before taking off for the day, I laced up the shoes and headed out on a run from the store called "Lucky Sevens" as it is supposedly 7.77 miles. I kept the pace honest and thought the wind would be more of a factor in the neighborhoods. I ended up clipping along the second half of the run with splits under 3:44/km.
Friday, January 25, 2013
Snow Run in Rochester
Time: 42:41
Distance: 10.05 km
Pace: 4:15/km
Map
It snowed a little last night and I didn't want to risk running too much on partially paved streets. I only ventured out for a little over 40 minutes to get in my morning 10 km. I thought that I would run again in the evening with the Fleet Feet training group, but reconsidered when it would mean driving back towards MA in cold, wet clothes.
The run this morning basically repeated what I did yesterday simply because I knew the route. I slipped a little on the snow, but didn't notice anything alarming with regards to my achilles. I've really liked running in the new Flow Trail as it provides enough grip for the snow, has a waterproof guard near the toes and doesn't feel like most clunky trail shoes. Karhu might be onto something here.
Distance: 10.05 km
Pace: 4:15/km
Map
It snowed a little last night and I didn't want to risk running too much on partially paved streets. I only ventured out for a little over 40 minutes to get in my morning 10 km. I thought that I would run again in the evening with the Fleet Feet training group, but reconsidered when it would mean driving back towards MA in cold, wet clothes.
The run this morning basically repeated what I did yesterday simply because I knew the route. I slipped a little on the snow, but didn't notice anything alarming with regards to my achilles. I've really liked running in the new Flow Trail as it provides enough grip for the snow, has a waterproof guard near the toes and doesn't feel like most clunky trail shoes. Karhu might be onto something here.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Wegman's Trail
Time: 38:01
Distance: 7.93 km
Pace: 4:48/km
Map
After coming back to Fleet Feet Syracuse, I helped get staff in the proper size of the Karhu Fast or Strong. A brave group of about 7 headed out for a 5 mile run along a short trail that ends in the parking lot of Wegman's. I chatted with the general manager about all things running while having to fight the fact that my gloves were freezing. My fingers had warmed the gloves and become a little damp after the first run and become nearly frozen at the tips on the second run. I spent sections holding them in my jacket which helped prevent my fingers from form frostbite. At least that's what I'm telling myself.
On a day when I might have had to take a zero, I ended up logging over 24 km. I'll take it.
Distance: 7.93 km
Pace: 4:48/km
Map
After coming back to Fleet Feet Syracuse, I helped get staff in the proper size of the Karhu Fast or Strong. A brave group of about 7 headed out for a 5 mile run along a short trail that ends in the parking lot of Wegman's. I chatted with the general manager about all things running while having to fight the fact that my gloves were freezing. My fingers had warmed the gloves and become a little damp after the first run and become nearly frozen at the tips on the second run. I spent sections holding them in my jacket which helped prevent my fingers from form frostbite. At least that's what I'm telling myself.
On a day when I might have had to take a zero, I ended up logging over 24 km. I'll take it.
Friday, January 18, 2013
NYC West Side Highway
Time: 71:07
Distance: ~16.1 km
Pace: ~4:23/km
Map
I picked up the Karhu CEO from JFK yesterday afternoon and we had a couple of business visits to make in Brooklyn. We finished up and were able to drive into Manhattan just as traffic was picking up and people were leaving work. I just love driving in NYC, the taxis are just so friendly. We made it to his hotel where I dropped him off and then I went to find parking and drop my stuff at a buddy's house.
Earlier in the week there was talk of trying to meet up with some of my teammates from Brown who were in town for business as well. Three members from the class of '06 met up at Brother Jimmy's across from Penn Station. The location allowed Owen to peace out and catch his train back to DC and for me, Craig and Ari (class of '08) to hang out a bit longer and pick at greasy bbq. The Karhu CEO was invited out and he joined us for a burger. The night was young and we were in NYC, but despite my best persuasive tactics, I couldn't convince Craig or Ari to come with us to SPiN New York.
For those of you unfamiliar with SPiN, think basement of a college frat house. Alcohol. Ping pong tables. Bros. Mostly attractive women.
Now, I'm no ping pong (table tennis to acknowledge the politically correct) wizard, but there were certainly plenty of real life Forest Gumps flailing crazy backhands and putting crazy spin on their serves. We were waiting for a table and actually ended up getting bumped further down the list because a "member" showed up who gets preferred status. Eventually a hostess came around and asked if we were on the list. Knowing that we had just been bumped, I said "yes" and then started shouting out popular names like, "John... David... Michael." She asked if I was Mike and I concurred to which she lead us to our table.
We played for an hour or so and then when our time was up were awkwardly invited to join a young couple on their first date who had met on a Jewish online dating site. One can only assume it was JDate.com. It was terribly late to still be out and I had consumed a fair number of beers on the night. I only recap the night because my run the next morning was absolutely horrendous.
I was out the door right at 6 AM and stood around in the freezing cold for my Garmin to find a satellite. It never did until a couple minutes of running north on the West Side Highway bike path. The wind lashed my face for the first 8 kilometers out. It didn't help that I was tired and had a headache due to the late night and pints. The run never felt comfortable but the pace did finally pick up the final 15 minutes, granted I had the wind at my back.
The rest of my nights in New York wouldn't have nearly a negative effect on my training.
Distance: ~16.1 km
Pace: ~4:23/km
Map
I picked up the Karhu CEO from JFK yesterday afternoon and we had a couple of business visits to make in Brooklyn. We finished up and were able to drive into Manhattan just as traffic was picking up and people were leaving work. I just love driving in NYC, the taxis are just so friendly. We made it to his hotel where I dropped him off and then I went to find parking and drop my stuff at a buddy's house.
Earlier in the week there was talk of trying to meet up with some of my teammates from Brown who were in town for business as well. Three members from the class of '06 met up at Brother Jimmy's across from Penn Station. The location allowed Owen to peace out and catch his train back to DC and for me, Craig and Ari (class of '08) to hang out a bit longer and pick at greasy bbq. The Karhu CEO was invited out and he joined us for a burger. The night was young and we were in NYC, but despite my best persuasive tactics, I couldn't convince Craig or Ari to come with us to SPiN New York.
For those of you unfamiliar with SPiN, think basement of a college frat house. Alcohol. Ping pong tables. Bros. Mostly attractive women.
Now, I'm no ping pong (table tennis to acknowledge the politically correct) wizard, but there were certainly plenty of real life Forest Gumps flailing crazy backhands and putting crazy spin on their serves. We were waiting for a table and actually ended up getting bumped further down the list because a "member" showed up who gets preferred status. Eventually a hostess came around and asked if we were on the list. Knowing that we had just been bumped, I said "yes" and then started shouting out popular names like, "John... David... Michael." She asked if I was Mike and I concurred to which she lead us to our table.
We played for an hour or so and then when our time was up were awkwardly invited to join a young couple on their first date who had met on a Jewish online dating site. One can only assume it was JDate.com. It was terribly late to still be out and I had consumed a fair number of beers on the night. I only recap the night because my run the next morning was absolutely horrendous.
I was out the door right at 6 AM and stood around in the freezing cold for my Garmin to find a satellite. It never did until a couple minutes of running north on the West Side Highway bike path. The wind lashed my face for the first 8 kilometers out. It didn't help that I was tired and had a headache due to the late night and pints. The run never felt comfortable but the pace did finally pick up the final 15 minutes, granted I had the wind at my back.
The rest of my nights in New York wouldn't have nearly a negative effect on my training.
Thursday, August 23, 2012
NRFTW 5k Race
Time: 47:10
Distance: 11.03 km
W/u: 24:10 for 5.01km
"Race": 17:28 for 5.01 km
C/d: 5:32 for 1.01 km
Meagan and I have been attending the No Rest for the Wicked 5k run which occurs weekly on Thursday evening from the Salem Common. The "race" provides the opportunity to run as fast or in control as you are hoping. Tonight a crew of Karhu and Craft employees came out to join us. Meagan was hoping to run nice and controlled but I started pushing the pace up the slight hill around the 1km mark and brought her home in a solid clocking. The official finish line is about 80-100m shy of a 5k so our time will reflect something in the 17:16 range. I think my legs had a little more pop in them tonight, but then again I wasn't running all that fast.
Distance: 11.03 km
W/u: 24:10 for 5.01km
"Race": 17:28 for 5.01 km
C/d: 5:32 for 1.01 km
Meagan and I have been attending the No Rest for the Wicked 5k run which occurs weekly on Thursday evening from the Salem Common. The "race" provides the opportunity to run as fast or in control as you are hoping. Tonight a crew of Karhu and Craft employees came out to join us. Meagan was hoping to run nice and controlled but I started pushing the pace up the slight hill around the 1km mark and brought her home in a solid clocking. The official finish line is about 80-100m shy of a 5k so our time will reflect something in the 17:16 range. I think my legs had a little more pop in them tonight, but then again I wasn't running all that fast.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Charles River Uptempo Long Run
Time: 111:14
Distance: 25.10 km
W/u: 13:43 for 2.64 km
Workout: 79:30 for 19.21 km
C/d: 17:51 for 3.25 km
Meagan and I drove into Boston (actually) Cambridge to meet up with a crew of city runners. We were meeting Emily, Jenn and a couple other members of the BAA to do 12 miles at 5:50 to 6:00 per mile. I think this was Jenn's workout and we would just be tagging along. I had few goals for the workout other than running in the group as relaxed as possible. My legs were a bit sore from that terrible mile I ran on Friday night.
I would have liked to have gotten in more of a warm up but time didn't permit. We started just after 8:00 and got the workout rolling along the Charles. I settled into the back of the group trying to do as little work as possible. I didn't want to hit the front and push the pace to ruin the workout for anyone. That would come later.
Wayne and Dan up front set the pace with Emily and Jenn tucked in behind. Meagan and I followed with Will on our shoulders. We streaked past baby joggers, bikes, guys on roller blades and countless runners. There were moments when I would find myself coming up on the shoulder of Emily but then I would consciously back off and retake my place at the back on the pack.
The loop took us out 6 miles and then turned for the trip home. Everyone was still grouped up minus Will who is just starting workouts again. Somewhere around the 7-8 mile mark I moved to the front to take a turn at the lead. There was a little bit too much talking for my liking and I decided to get the pace rolling. The group responded to my increased tempo and things just progressed from there. You can see in the splits below where I went to the front around the 11 to 12 km mark.
Splits:
3:44, 3:49, 3:49, 3:37, 3:42,
3:39, 3:45, 3:41, 3:40, 3:43,
3:45, 3:36, 3:35, 3:37, 3:31,
3:31, 3:30, 3:17, 3:15, :41
Dan who is back visiting from Florida kept it rolling until the end of the workout. He timed our final full mile in 5:13 which I initially thought was short until Emily told me it's been measured by multiple people and accurate. I'll take it.
Distance: 25.10 km
W/u: 13:43 for 2.64 km
Workout: 79:30 for 19.21 km
C/d: 17:51 for 3.25 km
Meagan and I drove into Boston (actually) Cambridge to meet up with a crew of city runners. We were meeting Emily, Jenn and a couple other members of the BAA to do 12 miles at 5:50 to 6:00 per mile. I think this was Jenn's workout and we would just be tagging along. I had few goals for the workout other than running in the group as relaxed as possible. My legs were a bit sore from that terrible mile I ran on Friday night.
I would have liked to have gotten in more of a warm up but time didn't permit. We started just after 8:00 and got the workout rolling along the Charles. I settled into the back of the group trying to do as little work as possible. I didn't want to hit the front and push the pace to ruin the workout for anyone. That would come later.
Wayne and Dan up front set the pace with Emily and Jenn tucked in behind. Meagan and I followed with Will on our shoulders. We streaked past baby joggers, bikes, guys on roller blades and countless runners. There were moments when I would find myself coming up on the shoulder of Emily but then I would consciously back off and retake my place at the back on the pack.
The loop took us out 6 miles and then turned for the trip home. Everyone was still grouped up minus Will who is just starting workouts again. Somewhere around the 7-8 mile mark I moved to the front to take a turn at the lead. There was a little bit too much talking for my liking and I decided to get the pace rolling. The group responded to my increased tempo and things just progressed from there. You can see in the splits below where I went to the front around the 11 to 12 km mark.
Splits:
3:44, 3:49, 3:49, 3:37, 3:42,
3:39, 3:45, 3:41, 3:40, 3:43,
3:45, 3:36, 3:35, 3:37, 3:31,
3:31, 3:30, 3:17, 3:15, :41
Dan who is back visiting from Florida kept it rolling until the end of the workout. He timed our final full mile in 5:13 which I initially thought was short until Emily told me it's been measured by multiple people and accurate. I'll take it.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Darien, CT Run
Time: 37:21
Distance: 8.28 km
Pace: 4:31/km
Map
After a fun night being a track dork with Pat Price of Writing About Running and drinking good beers, I found myself in Darien, CT where I would be visiting an account. However, before arriving I got in a few kilometers on a loop that I did when last in town. I didn't feel great, but the weather was fantastic and the route goes by some amazing homes.
Distance: 8.28 km
Pace: 4:31/km
Map
After a fun night being a track dork with Pat Price of Writing About Running and drinking good beers, I found myself in Darien, CT where I would be visiting an account. However, before arriving I got in a few kilometers on a loop that I did when last in town. I didn't feel great, but the weather was fantastic and the route goes by some amazing homes.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Running the Sound in CT
Time: 47:14
Distance: 10.76 km
Pace: 4:23/km
This will be my last run without Mr. Garmin. I left the charger at a hotel in CT earlier last week and have been using Meagan's Timex which is far inferior to Garmin's capabilities. The features just aren't the same on this thing.
I ran with the Sound Runner Wednesday night group and ended up running with a guy who was on the Northeastern University team for a short period of time. He seemed to know everything about running and I just opted to tag along and listen to him talk about nonsense. We ended up running the final couple of kilometers at sub 3:50 which I had little interest in doing, but wasn't about to back down. Overall it was a good run and always fun to be running healthy.
Distance: 10.76 km
Pace: 4:23/km
This will be my last run without Mr. Garmin. I left the charger at a hotel in CT earlier last week and have been using Meagan's Timex which is far inferior to Garmin's capabilities. The features just aren't the same on this thing.
I ran with the Sound Runner Wednesday night group and ended up running with a guy who was on the Northeastern University team for a short period of time. He seemed to know everything about running and I just opted to tag along and listen to him talk about nonsense. We ended up running the final couple of kilometers at sub 3:50 which I had little interest in doing, but wasn't about to back down. Overall it was a good run and always fun to be running healthy.
Monday, May 7, 2012
Short Loop of Nahant
Time: 68:37
Distance: 16.03 km
Pace: 4:17/km
Map
The only times that I loop Nahant is on a long run so when I decided to double with a loop around the peninsula, I didn't think it was going to be 16 kilometers (10 miles). I was meeting up with a triathlete in Swampscott to show him some shoes and arrived too early so I went out for a run. The weather remained awesome and I found myself clipping off some relaxed splits around Nahant.
Distance: 16.03 km
Pace: 4:17/km
Map
The only times that I loop Nahant is on a long run so when I decided to double with a loop around the peninsula, I didn't think it was going to be 16 kilometers (10 miles). I was meeting up with a triathlete in Swampscott to show him some shoes and arrived too early so I went out for a run. The weather remained awesome and I found myself clipping off some relaxed splits around Nahant.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Airstreams, Mullets, Coffee, Beer & Running
It's been awhile since I opened the browser to the OK Runner and thankfully today is the day that you've all been waiting for... an update from yours truly!
My plan is to get back on the horse and update more frequently but we'll see how training progresses this spring and summer. I'm currently moderately fit and only a little soft around the edges compared to several weeks ago when I was really sloppy. Meagan dropped me in a workout back in March and I wasn't able to hang with her through 10k of a half marathon. Fast forward to yesterday, I put in 33.50 kilometers with some respectable splits tossed in for good measure. Toward the end of the run I ran 3 x 3k with splits of 3:41, 3:40, 3:39 (11:00); 3:13, 3:19, 3:11 (10:43) ; 3:16, 3:16, 3:13 (10:45).
I also started using Meagan's Timex GPS watch while in Philly this past weekend. I left my Garmin at the office before hitting the road and had to keep on tickin'. The Timex is a decent substitute for Garmin but not the real deal. The battery life is about on par with a 5 year old laptop, the display units are difficult to read and the volume of the beep during a run is so low that you better hope a car doesn't pass you with additional background noise. I did like being forced to learn how to use the watch, but my preference will remain with Garmin.
What else have I been up to?
Yesterday, Meagan and I spent the day looking at houses in Salem with my dad and Roger. They have rented a house in Salem through the middle of next month and are just exploring the east coast. Meagan and I meet up when we aren't working or traveling for work and yesterday was one of those days. Our stay at the fort is coming to a close (we have to be out at the end of May) which means we better quickly find a place to live. In my dad's world that means buying a place, so we are actively looking at places in downtown Salem to live. My vote to buy a place in "the Point" is being vetoed because nobody has my vision. The Point is the "dangerous" part of town that everyone is afraid to live in, but I just see opportunity. Give me 3 years and I'll have that place turned around. It's comparable to Columbia Heights in DC which was shit 8 years ago, but look at it now. My buddy Owen (@Owashb) has lived there for several years and his place is now in the middle of one of the hottest up and coming areas of DC. This is what the Point will be in 5 years, but if I were there it would only take 3.
What about work?
Oh yea, work is going well. I've had the opportunity to take the Karhu Airstream out for a couple of adventures. Several members of the Charlotte running community who were up for the Boston "death march" Marathon got to see our pride and joy. It's a 1975 Argosy Airstream trailer that has been converted into a shoe museum and sneaker pop up shop. I helped activate the spring tour in each of the three key cities: Boston, New York and Philadelphia. We are searching for someone to pilot the vehicle this fall and have already received some great applications. At the Boston Marathon we had the Airstream parked in a lot near the expo and invited runners to check everything out. While there we met with Runner's World for a footwear review and this photo was snapped. Yes, that's me with a pseudo mullet. It has slowly morphed from something a little less noticeable to borderline rat-tail-ish. Meagan hates it, but it's awesome.
When are you going to race next?
There are no immediate plans to race in the near future other than the JCC triathlon in lovely Marblehead. I'm running 3.5 mile run leg to bring home the timing chip on May 13th which also happens to coincide with Mother's Day. My mother from California will actually be here to see if I still have a competitive spirit to run down participants. The lead off leg will be Anne's Hands who has been instrumental in fixing my hamstring and getting me back on the roads. She is a local chiropractor, former collegiate swimmer and the girlfriend of the Karhu CEO. She'll be passing off to the bossman himself for a 10 mile ride around Marblehead. I'm not sure if he's been on the bike at all this spring so let's hope he can stay upright for 25 minutes of riding. My hope is to be off within 3 minutes of the leaders to bring things home.
I think this is sufficient for now. Again, the plan is to get back to more daily posting now that I'm running much more consistently and I would like to keep track of my workouts. The hope is to also provide some insights to the coffee and beer scene on the North Shore. I haven't found a local coffee shop that I want to make my office away from the KNA office, but I'm hopeful that there are a few good places in Salem. The local bars are stocked up with pints from regional breweries, however the biggest downside is no happy hours. That's right, no happy hours! The Commonwealth of Massachusetts apparently doesn't allow for it so it's more likely to find appetizer specials or no specials at all. We joke that it's easier to import or sell guns in MA than it is to sell booze. I'm becoming a bigger fan of the Ipswich India Pale Ale which is commonly found in these parts. Surprisingly I can still imbibe on Sierra Nevada and sometimes Stone IPA if I'm feeling west coast.
Until next time...
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Running with Green Lightning
Time: 51:13
Distance: 11.43km
Pace: 4:29/km
Map
I picked up Meagan from the airport last night. She was down in Charlotte shaking up the running world with Karhu. We are releasing a new geometry of our fulcrum March 1st and some lucky individuals got to purchase them a few days early.
This morning we set out for a loop around the Marblehead neck. Since I'm not running much I got to choose the loop and I always pick the neck. I felt alright, but can tell the right leg is still not 100 percent. It's getting oh so close and I hope to be running full force soon. The hamstring continues to improve as I've been good about doing drills and exercises to stretch and strengthen.
Distance: 11.43km
Pace: 4:29/km
Map
I picked up Meagan from the airport last night. She was down in Charlotte shaking up the running world with Karhu. We are releasing a new geometry of our fulcrum March 1st and some lucky individuals got to purchase them a few days early.
This morning we set out for a loop around the Marblehead neck. Since I'm not running much I got to choose the loop and I always pick the neck. I felt alright, but can tell the right leg is still not 100 percent. It's getting oh so close and I hope to be running full force soon. The hamstring continues to improve as I've been good about doing drills and exercises to stretch and strengthen.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Portsmouth to New Castle
Time: 35:33
Distance: 8.01km
Pace: 4:26/km
Map
I was in the office most of last week and needed to get back out on the road. I decided to make a route that would take me to all three of the Runner's Alley locations in order to share my love for Balega socks. They are awesome! No really. They are.
My day ended at a coffee shop in Portsmouth which is a town I would consider living in if it were so far away from a major airport. The downtown area is filled with locally owned shops, art galleries and restaurants. It's fun making trips up to visit our footwear developer's office because I get to enjoy the Portsmouth buzz.
At the end of the day I parked near the library and changed into my running costume. I wanted to put in a few kilometers to kill time before driving back to MA in order to get Meagan from the airport. I ran from near downtown out to New Castle which was founded in something like 1623. I did the run a couple of years ago during a winter sales meeting. I'll have to come back fully healthy and complete the loop.
Distance: 8.01km
Pace: 4:26/km
Map
I was in the office most of last week and needed to get back out on the road. I decided to make a route that would take me to all three of the Runner's Alley locations in order to share my love for Balega socks. They are awesome! No really. They are.
My day ended at a coffee shop in Portsmouth which is a town I would consider living in if it were so far away from a major airport. The downtown area is filled with locally owned shops, art galleries and restaurants. It's fun making trips up to visit our footwear developer's office because I get to enjoy the Portsmouth buzz.
At the end of the day I parked near the library and changed into my running costume. I wanted to put in a few kilometers to kill time before driving back to MA in order to get Meagan from the airport. I ran from near downtown out to New Castle which was founded in something like 1623. I did the run a couple of years ago during a winter sales meeting. I'll have to come back fully healthy and complete the loop.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
City Sports & Balega
Time: none
Distance: none
Surprise, surprise... Today was another day off due to a nagging hamstring. I'm trying not to stretch it, but rather massage it with a firm round object. I drive with a Trigger Point massage ball placed underneath my upper hamstring, right where it meets the buttocks.
My travels today took me to Spark Bike & Run Sports in Taunton, MA and City Sports corporate. I like hanging out at Spark because the owner is good guy. His store is new, he's making connections with his community and he's interested in learning more about the industry. He also carries BMC bikes (repped by my buddy Liam) and will soon have Karhu.
The City Sports visit was mainly for Balega which I was fortunate enough to pick up recently. Everybody loves a good pair of socks and Balega has the best ones out there. It was the first time I had a chance to visit with the sock buyer. She was cool, British, and likes coffee. The headquarters are in the North End where the streets are narrow and it's impossible to find parking. I managed to find a spot and leave the neighborhood with no scratches on my car. The only bigger win would have been to lace up the kicks and get out for a run.
Distance: none
Surprise, surprise... Today was another day off due to a nagging hamstring. I'm trying not to stretch it, but rather massage it with a firm round object. I drive with a Trigger Point massage ball placed underneath my upper hamstring, right where it meets the buttocks.
My travels today took me to Spark Bike & Run Sports in Taunton, MA and City Sports corporate. I like hanging out at Spark because the owner is good guy. His store is new, he's making connections with his community and he's interested in learning more about the industry. He also carries BMC bikes (repped by my buddy Liam) and will soon have Karhu.
The City Sports visit was mainly for Balega which I was fortunate enough to pick up recently. Everybody loves a good pair of socks and Balega has the best ones out there. It was the first time I had a chance to visit with the sock buyer. She was cool, British, and likes coffee. The headquarters are in the North End where the streets are narrow and it's impossible to find parking. I managed to find a spot and leave the neighborhood with no scratches on my car. The only bigger win would have been to lace up the kicks and get out for a run.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Schenker to the Front
Time: 38:20
Distance: 7.11 km
Pace: 5:23/km
Map
This afternoon Meagan, the Craft/Karhu GM (@CraftSportsGM) and I left the office for a little jog around the lovely town of Beverly, MA. It's a busy time of the year as people on the Craft side of the business are making the official "buy" for next year. That means if you want to be rocking the coolest baselayers, tights and jackets next fall, then the "buy" must be forecast according. Tension, tension...
We suited up in our running costumes and headed out the door in mild February conditions. I, unfortunately, could not enjoy the run as my hamstring is absolutely killing me. I have a decent range of motion on my right side, but every pull through hurts while weight bearing. The discomfort is high up near the insertion point to my butt (not what you're thinking). I will be getting treatment tomorrow, but I now recognize that this is a little more serious than I thought.
If you're on the Twitter, please follow Eric (linked above) because it's pathetic how few followers he has! (I hope he reads this).
Distance: 7.11 km
Pace: 5:23/km
Map
This afternoon Meagan, the Craft/Karhu GM (@CraftSportsGM) and I left the office for a little jog around the lovely town of Beverly, MA. It's a busy time of the year as people on the Craft side of the business are making the official "buy" for next year. That means if you want to be rocking the coolest baselayers, tights and jackets next fall, then the "buy" must be forecast according. Tension, tension...
We suited up in our running costumes and headed out the door in mild February conditions. I, unfortunately, could not enjoy the run as my hamstring is absolutely killing me. I have a decent range of motion on my right side, but every pull through hurts while weight bearing. The discomfort is high up near the insertion point to my butt (not what you're thinking). I will be getting treatment tomorrow, but I now recognize that this is a little more serious than I thought.
If you're on the Twitter, please follow Eric (linked above) because it's pathetic how few followers he has! (I hope he reads this).
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Sir Charles of IKEA
Time: 39:39
Distance: 7.30 km
Pace: 5:26/km
Map
This morning I drove into Boston with the Karhu CEO to run along the Charles River. Our goal was to put in a few kilometers and then scope out a few parking spots near the Boston Marathon finish. I don't want to ruin any brand activation events in April, but we are going to be doing something pretty sweet involving a 24 foot Argosy.
I never really fell into a rhythm on the run for various reasons: (A) it was really cold and windy, (B) we were running slow, (C) my hamstring was hurting as if it were really cold and we were running really slow.
After the run we toured Comm. Ave, Newbury and Boylston Streets, grabbed a coffee and headed to IKEA. I got roped into the Swedish furniture behemoth part, but it was okay since I got breakfast out of it. Did you know they serve breakfast for $1.99!? Free coffee too! I'm not a fan of IKEA, but after learning of their food offerings for rock bottom prices, I could become a convert.
Distance: 7.30 km
Pace: 5:26/km
Map
This morning I drove into Boston with the Karhu CEO to run along the Charles River. Our goal was to put in a few kilometers and then scope out a few parking spots near the Boston Marathon finish. I don't want to ruin any brand activation events in April, but we are going to be doing something pretty sweet involving a 24 foot Argosy.
I never really fell into a rhythm on the run for various reasons: (A) it was really cold and windy, (B) we were running slow, (C) my hamstring was hurting as if it were really cold and we were running really slow.
After the run we toured Comm. Ave, Newbury and Boylston Streets, grabbed a coffee and headed to IKEA. I got roped into the Swedish furniture behemoth part, but it was okay since I got breakfast out of it. Did you know they serve breakfast for $1.99!? Free coffee too! I'm not a fan of IKEA, but after learning of their food offerings for rock bottom prices, I could become a convert.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Lunch Run
Time: 52:06
Distance: 9.71 km
Pace: 5:22/km
Map
This afternoon I got out of the KNA offices to put in just under 10 km with the Karhu CEO and inventory manager. The pace wasn't fast, but the company was nice running around the streets of Beverly. My hamstring did not have a good run as I kept massaging my glute to relieve some of the discomfort. I thought taking yesterday off would help my cause, but apparently this is going to be a nuisance.
Distance: 9.71 km
Pace: 5:22/km
Map
This afternoon I got out of the KNA offices to put in just under 10 km with the Karhu CEO and inventory manager. The pace wasn't fast, but the company was nice running around the streets of Beverly. My hamstring did not have a good run as I kept massaging my glute to relieve some of the discomfort. I thought taking yesterday off would help my cause, but apparently this is going to be a nuisance.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Vision Lost
This is not how I envisioned my training after Meagan's Olympic Trials performance. I had hoped to start running my own workouts eared to running a spring marathon. There was even talk about getting an entry into the Boston Marathon, but all of that has been put on pause. I had been having some slight discomfort in my low right side of my back, hip, groin during the last couple of runs with Meagan leading up to the Trials. In Houston, the pain wasn't getting any better, so I opted to take Saturday (the only running I did was to cheer on the runners) and Sunday off. Fast forward to today and I'm still having the same discomfort whenever I land on my right side.
I'm pretty convinced it's my SI joint and I'll find out more this Saturday when I go to see a chiropractor. I have run a bit which I'll update soon.
Since I'm not really running, check out a few recent articles about work:
Antenna Mag & Candy Washington
I didn't attend Project NY, but it's a big shoe and fashion trade show. My sense is that people way cooler that you or me browse mostly underground brands looking for the next biggest urban trends.
I don't really work on the Karhu Originals side of the business, but I wear the shoes all the time. There is something about the brand's unique history that I like. Wearing brightly colored mesh upper shoes also gets a big boring as I spend enough time in running shoes. When I visit accounts or hang out with my friends, I prefer to wear Karhu Originals. (Yes, that was a Dos XX reference).
I'm pretty convinced it's my SI joint and I'll find out more this Saturday when I go to see a chiropractor. I have run a bit which I'll update soon.
Since I'm not really running, check out a few recent articles about work:
Antenna Mag & Candy Washington
I didn't attend Project NY, but it's a big shoe and fashion trade show. My sense is that people way cooler that you or me browse mostly underground brands looking for the next biggest urban trends.
I don't really work on the Karhu Originals side of the business, but I wear the shoes all the time. There is something about the brand's unique history that I like. Wearing brightly colored mesh upper shoes also gets a big boring as I spend enough time in running shoes. When I visit accounts or hang out with my friends, I prefer to wear Karhu Originals. (Yes, that was a Dos XX reference).
Friday, January 13, 2012
Running with the Trials Competitors
Run I
Time: 47:57
Distance: 10.67 km
Pace: 4:30/km
Map
Run II
Time: 29:46
Distance: 6.61km
Pace: 4:30/km
Map
Meagan and I jogged over to the Hilton to meet up with Caitlin, and Allison Mascas and Scott MacPherson of Team Rogue Elite. The group of us jogged out to the Allen Parkway where there are no lights to cross. Lots of participants were out getting in their last runs before toeing the line tomorrow. Deena Kastor even said "good morning" as we crossed a street close to the hotel.
The hotel lobby is buzzing with activity and everyone looks fit. Both the men and women competing look smaller in person than in video interviews or pictures. Most of the participants I know are just happy to be in attendance and don't have any aspirations to actually be in the top 3. However, all wish to have a great race and take as many scalps as possible. On my second run with Jesse Armijo and Joe Moore, they both talked about picking up the carnage late in the race if they just ran a consistent pace of 5:15 to 5:20. I'm rooting for the little guys, the guys who are just happy to be in the race, the ones who hit late qualifying times at CIM or small marathons on the Gulf. They have no shot at being top 10 and little shot at being top 25, but it will be fun to watch guys like Joe and Jesse.
The rest of the day was spent hanging around the hotel and making sure Meagan had everything she needed. One interesting story that is relevant to the USATF uniform rules involves Craft. Meagan took her jersey to the uniform check-in and had no issues. On the other hand, Joe took his uniform to the check-in and came down to lunch with duct tape over the "Craft" portion of the logo but not the six dots.
After our meal, I went up to the uniform committee and simply explained that I had two athletes competing, both with the same logo and one has duct tape on, the other doesn't. I showed them my jacket and continued asking questions in the politest way possible. Craft didn't appear on the list of pre-approved brands, but I eventually got to speak with someone who knew the rules. Turns out, they didn't know Craft was the actual apparel manufacturer and not some other sponsor which means the logo is permitted to be visible. I immediately told Joe to peel off the tape and that he would be good to rock the Elite Jersey. Problem averted!
I avoided the technical meeting and instead chatted with Pat Price of Writing About Running concerning some Karhu articles we would like him to explore. I met up with Meagan's parents and chilled in their hotel room before dinner. I ate dinner and enjoyed the very same meal I had for lunch (the steak was much better this time). I chatted with many friends running the race and wished them all best of luck. Tomorrow is going to be bad ass!
For updates on Meagan's progress during the race... follow me on twitter (@jokin359).
Time: 47:57
Distance: 10.67 km
Pace: 4:30/km
Map
Run II
Time: 29:46
Distance: 6.61km
Pace: 4:30/km
Map
Meagan and I jogged over to the Hilton to meet up with Caitlin, and Allison Mascas and Scott MacPherson of Team Rogue Elite. The group of us jogged out to the Allen Parkway where there are no lights to cross. Lots of participants were out getting in their last runs before toeing the line tomorrow. Deena Kastor even said "good morning" as we crossed a street close to the hotel.
The hotel lobby is buzzing with activity and everyone looks fit. Both the men and women competing look smaller in person than in video interviews or pictures. Most of the participants I know are just happy to be in attendance and don't have any aspirations to actually be in the top 3. However, all wish to have a great race and take as many scalps as possible. On my second run with Jesse Armijo and Joe Moore, they both talked about picking up the carnage late in the race if they just ran a consistent pace of 5:15 to 5:20. I'm rooting for the little guys, the guys who are just happy to be in the race, the ones who hit late qualifying times at CIM or small marathons on the Gulf. They have no shot at being top 10 and little shot at being top 25, but it will be fun to watch guys like Joe and Jesse.
The rest of the day was spent hanging around the hotel and making sure Meagan had everything she needed. One interesting story that is relevant to the USATF uniform rules involves Craft. Meagan took her jersey to the uniform check-in and had no issues. On the other hand, Joe took his uniform to the check-in and came down to lunch with duct tape over the "Craft" portion of the logo but not the six dots.
After our meal, I went up to the uniform committee and simply explained that I had two athletes competing, both with the same logo and one has duct tape on, the other doesn't. I showed them my jacket and continued asking questions in the politest way possible. Craft didn't appear on the list of pre-approved brands, but I eventually got to speak with someone who knew the rules. Turns out, they didn't know Craft was the actual apparel manufacturer and not some other sponsor which means the logo is permitted to be visible. I immediately told Joe to peel off the tape and that he would be good to rock the Elite Jersey. Problem averted!
I avoided the technical meeting and instead chatted with Pat Price of Writing About Running concerning some Karhu articles we would like him to explore. I met up with Meagan's parents and chilled in their hotel room before dinner. I ate dinner and enjoyed the very same meal I had for lunch (the steak was much better this time). I chatted with many friends running the race and wished them all best of luck. Tomorrow is going to be bad ass!
For updates on Meagan's progress during the race... follow me on twitter (@jokin359).
Thursday, December 29, 2011
MRN's Last Big Trials Workout
Time: 98:31
Distance: 23.65 km
W/u: 16:09 for 3.40 km
W/o: 3 x 1 km @ 3:45/km (1 min rest), 10 km tempo @ 3:50/km (3 min rest), 3 x 1 km @ 3:40/km (90 sec rest)
C/d: 11:48 for 2.46 km
On the drive from San Francisco to the SFO airport I got a call from United saying our flight had been canceled. With no other flights arriving in or near Palm Springs before midnight, we opted to travel to San Jose to stay with my aunt Emily. In the morning we would use the bike path that runs between San Jose and Los Gatos as the site of Meagan's last big workout before traveling to Houston.
On tap was a workout consisting of 3 opening kilometers at marathon pace to get the body into a rhythm. Next would be a 10 km tempo just above marathon pace to to add some distance and get used to running fast without exerting or pushing too hard. We would end with 3 kilometer repeats at just below marathon pace to practice running somewhat fast while being somewhat tired.
Here's how it went...
Splits:
3 x 1 km - 3:43.63 (62), 3:41.02 (61), 3:50.81 (2:01);
10 km tempo - 3:51.2, 3:54.1, 3:52.5, 3:48.4, 3:51.5, 3:49.7, 3:46.7, 3:48.1, 3:47.1, 3:46.0 (3:02);
3 x 1 km - 3:36.47 (91), 3:41.18 (91), 3:36.05
Total - 70:34 for 17.79 km and 3:58/km average
...pretty well. Like really well. The splits aren't overly impressive from a speed standpoint, but the comfort level at which Meagan hit those times was amazing. She was sharp right off the line on the opening 3 kilometers, the third of which included a slight detour due to a missed bridge crossing. No real worry on it showing up a little slow. The 10k tempo is what impressed me the most as at multiple times she verbally announced that, "I'm bored." I think the total time of the 10 km was around 38:15 which would have been her PR in 2008. The final 3 kilometers really showed her fitness as the pace was quicker than prescribed and yet she didn't sound any more exhausted. She was recovering within 30 seconds and hitting mid-3:30s with ease.
For the last real workout before the Trials, I think she's more than ready to have a great race.
Distance: 23.65 km
W/u: 16:09 for 3.40 km
W/o: 3 x 1 km @ 3:45/km (1 min rest), 10 km tempo @ 3:50/km (3 min rest), 3 x 1 km @ 3:40/km (90 sec rest)
C/d: 11:48 for 2.46 km
On the drive from San Francisco to the SFO airport I got a call from United saying our flight had been canceled. With no other flights arriving in or near Palm Springs before midnight, we opted to travel to San Jose to stay with my aunt Emily. In the morning we would use the bike path that runs between San Jose and Los Gatos as the site of Meagan's last big workout before traveling to Houston.
On tap was a workout consisting of 3 opening kilometers at marathon pace to get the body into a rhythm. Next would be a 10 km tempo just above marathon pace to to add some distance and get used to running fast without exerting or pushing too hard. We would end with 3 kilometer repeats at just below marathon pace to practice running somewhat fast while being somewhat tired.
Here's how it went...
Splits:
3 x 1 km - 3:43.63 (62), 3:41.02 (61), 3:50.81 (2:01);
10 km tempo - 3:51.2, 3:54.1, 3:52.5, 3:48.4, 3:51.5, 3:49.7, 3:46.7, 3:48.1, 3:47.1, 3:46.0 (3:02);
3 x 1 km - 3:36.47 (91), 3:41.18 (91), 3:36.05
Total - 70:34 for 17.79 km and 3:58/km average
...pretty well. Like really well. The splits aren't overly impressive from a speed standpoint, but the comfort level at which Meagan hit those times was amazing. She was sharp right off the line on the opening 3 kilometers, the third of which included a slight detour due to a missed bridge crossing. No real worry on it showing up a little slow. The 10k tempo is what impressed me the most as at multiple times she verbally announced that, "I'm bored." I think the total time of the 10 km was around 38:15 which would have been her PR in 2008. The final 3 kilometers really showed her fitness as the pace was quicker than prescribed and yet she didn't sound any more exhausted. She was recovering within 30 seconds and hitting mid-3:30s with ease.
For the last real workout before the Trials, I think she's more than ready to have a great race.
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