Bob -
Here's the thing, I like to run. I don't like to run real far. I like to run fast. At least as fast as my old body will go. I love to challenge myself. I love to see the results I get from running. The increased distance, the increased speed and power...my chiseled and beautiful calves. My calves could be on a statue, but there isn't much call for a statue of calves. Perhaps somewhere, someone would want a calf statue, but I'm not sure who or where. I honestly do not think I could sit still long enough to be a calf model. The rest of my body could not really be a statue. I have too much paunchiness. I guess they could call the statue, Paunch and Calves, but I think that was the name of the guys in CHIPS and I could get sued. So, I have the body of a seal I think. Pretty muscular, but the muscles are hidden in a decent layer of fat. Like a seal, the blubber keeps me warm enough in the cold weather, and the underlying muscle keeps me from getting eaten by great white sharks. The muscle and the fact that I don't live in the water. Probably the last comparison I have to a seal, because this story is going nowhere. But I do find it funny to think of myself as a seal or an otter. The point of this whole thing is this. I have about 5 weeks until the marathon. I did a long run of 15 plus miles today. I was supposed to do 20. I am behind in my training. I am not an excuse maker, at least I don't try to be. My job has been pretty crazy for about a month now. Working morning to night and when I get done, I am tired. I am on my feet all day and carrying stuff and doing crown moulding and other stuff that cabinet guys do. So, my legs have been sore and I have been a bit tired and a lot busy to do the long runs. But I did 15 miles today on sore legs. I am always mad at myself for not doing what I set out to do, but not really today. I feel that if I stick with the plan for the next 5 weeks, I am going to be okay. I have to work my legs. Work them hard and then back off of them a week or so before the marathon. I want to do this marathon. There are a few of us who are doing it because we all said we were going to do it together. I don't want to let them down. I don't want to let me down. The normal crew of people doing long runs on Saturday were out there this morning at 5:30, minus one who was throwing up. She will probably be out there tonight doing her 20. There is no quit in these people. So I can't quit. I tell myself the same thing I tell others...don't do anything to the point where you get injured. It isn't worth it, but this is just pain and that can be overcome. 5 weeks and then on to the stuff I really enjoy. Shorter and faster runs. Then maybe I can work on that statue.
One of the guys that used to work for me when I was doing contracting work ran a marathon and only ran once prior to the race. I think he went two miles.
ReplyDeleteHe did, however, cover all 26.2 miles and you will, too. You probably won't even walk if you go out a smart enough pace. He walked the last 20.2 miles, and didn't work the next two days. Do your best to avoid that part. ; )
You got this! M and I will be there with signs, and she will shout "Go Bob Go!" We will be at every mile if you need us too! I know how much you hate the marathon, but soon, I will be able to call you Bob the marathoner and coach ;)
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