Ah, winter running. You got to love it, or it will drive you insane.
These past few weeks of running, with our Pacific Northwest cold snap, has brought back memories of winter running in Montana. The most memorable winter was in 1992-1993. Here's how it went, but before I start I need to go back to June, 92.
I had spent that spring training to run a Boston qualifier marathon, which was, for my age, a 3:15, and had planned on running the Governor's Cup Marathon the first of June. My training worked out well and I did run a qualifying time - Boston, here I come! That summer I ran regularly and kept my training up, though I didn't really started the big push, for Boston, until the first of November. By this time I had met and befriended two other local runners, Mike and Ed, who were more into ultras. Ed was really interested in training with me. We ran, together, at least four times a week.
Not only did I begin a push on my training, the weather began it's push for one of those "Seven Year Winters". These are the type of winters that the locals enjoy because it sends all those who just moved up from California, back to California. Snow, below zero temperatures, strong winds and just plain nastiness made this winter unbearable. I mean that, it was just miserable.
Here is a list of conditions that we dealt with:
Snow. A ton of snow feel on Helena that winter. One weekend it was up over my knees.
Below zero temperatures. For about three weeks we had temperatures in the 20° below range. Yes, 20° below zero. Fahrenheit.
Icy roads. I slipped and feel more times that I care to think about. Since we ran together, falling meant bring down your running buddy as well. So much so that Ed made me a pair of studded running shoes.
Frozen Body Parts and Things. Twice I froze the tip of my nose. Having the water in my water bottle freeze solid was a daily occurrence. The trick was to drink enough water before it froze. Eating a Power Bar during this time was impossible, though a chocolate glazed doughnut seemed to work.
Running Winter Ware. During this time I wore three layers of stuff to keep warm. Since I would often run over 2 hours, in below freezing temperatures, my sweat would freeze on the inside of my nylon jacket. I needed material to keep me warm when damp and became a big fan of a new material called Polar Fleece.
Darkness. We ran, very often in the dark, since the really good headlamps of today were not on the market. Though, running on snowy ground with a bright moon was a really cool experience.
Wind. Often these really strong winds would come blowing down off the continental divide, which was west of town. Running in these winds was the most depressing experience of that winter.
Long Winter. This Seven Year Winter started in November and didn't really end until April. Before heading to Boston, I had only run in just running shorts and bare legs, maybe, twice. The cold never seemed to end. We would often say, "Can't get much worse" and then it would.
During this training cycle Ed and I ran in the 50 to 100 miles per week range. We ran up and over mountain passes, steep canyons and, once, down the road where the Unabomber lived. Yes, he was there during that time. Oh the fun we had.
Before I left for Boston, I would tell my friends that if the temperature, on race day, would in the below zero range, I would do really well. My reality was, at Noon on Marathon Day, the temperature was in the 80° range. Needless to say, I was not prepared for the heat. Though, the race was great and worth all the effort to get there.
This past week I ran in temperatures around 24°. And I complained, though back in the Seven Year Winter, a run in 24° would be like running on a summer day. Funny how things change over time and seasons.
The news from last week of the passing of John Linde while
vacationing, was a total shock to our community. My thoughts go out to
Carol and her children.
I find myself, at times like this, thinking about life. My
life. This self-evaluation process is very valuable to me in
understanding who I am. I ask myself things like; what's going on
presently and am I happy with those goings. Am I on track to where I want
to go? What tweaks do I need to ensure success. I mean, it's my
life and I really need to be happy with it. No one else to blame for things
I have chosen to do or not to do.
John passed away at the age of 62. I am 55. Not too
many years between us. At times I see the light at the end of my tunnel
of life. I realize that I am not immortal as I once thought I was, and
that, I think I best get in gear to accomplish all those things I want to.
Though I have given up the idea of becoming a Rock Star.
The bottom line for me is this. I run. I may not have
much money. I live in a tiny apartment and not a large house. My
retirement is slim. But my life is greatly enhanced by running. It
gives me so much joy and satisfaction on my life road. Each run provides
me with adventure, thrills, social encounters and a huge sense of
accomplishment. All for the price of shoes and a hour a day.
I run to live. We run to live. This is what we do.
This is how we find our purpose and our being.
With the holidays upon us, I think about all the crazy and useless gifts that I have been given over the years by very well meaning friends and family. Some functional gifts and some not. So, I thought I would present five gifts ideas that would really benefit the runner in your life.
Gift Number 1. A hand held water bottle with holder. From my experience a runner can’t have too manywater bottles. Sometimes, on a really long run or race, it’s even nice to have two. Really. When you go shopping, make sure the bottle and holder feels comfortable in your hand and has some type of little pouch that your favorite runner can stash money, debit card or car keys. There are a few brands that are selling a really nice bottle. Add some icing on the cake by putting five or ten dollars in the pouch before you wrap it.
Gift Number 2. A box of small, round Band-Aids for your runner’s nipples. Yes, for their nibbles. I find on my long runs,the friction of the shirt irritates me. Sometimes to the point of bleeding. Not a good thing. Especially when one, afterwards, steps into a really hot shower. Ouch. Not only is this gift functional, it is also a kind gift as it will save your runner friend pain and the embarrassment that comes from a bloody shirt
Gift Number 3. A Gift Certificate to your runner's favorite running store. Doesn't need to be a huge amount of money, though I suppose that wouldn't be such a bad idea. Running shoes, short, tops, nutritional supplements, socks and rain gear. The opportunities for delight are many. Not only will your runner be grateful for the gift, they will be able to purchase the type of gear that benefits and helps them the most.
Gift Number 4. Race Entry. Present your runner with a coupon for the race of their choice. That type of gift would be really cool. Not only will your gift save your runner some dollars, but will also provide them a new level of motivation to get out the door and run. This type of gift would help your runner accomplish some worthy goals.
Gift Number 5. Road ID. Road ID is a personal identification band that contains both contact phone numbers and medical information, while being a lifesaving piece of equipment, if by chance it would needed. Very inexpensive, but yet invaluable. Check out www.roadid.com for ordering information.
Well, there you go. That's Santa Clark's list for this Holiday Season.
Local interest is building for the first race series of 2010, the Nookachamps Winter Runs on January 16. The Winter Runs consists of a half marathon, 10K and a 5K. Starting time is 10 am, which makes it really easy for local runners who need to take the ferry.
The semi-flat course, combined with views of fields full of visiting Trumpeter Swans makes this a positive experience.
Tuesday: Hell Repeat
Tuesday, 5:30 pm, meet at the track. We will run a three mile warm-up
and then spend time on Hill Repeat Hill with repeats between 5 and 10.
Wednesday: Easy Wednesday, 5:30 pm, meet at San Juan Fitness. An easy 4 or 5 mile recovery run.
Thursday: Hill Are Our Friends Running, 5:30 pm, meet at San Juan Fitness. This week we will run 6 to 7 miles with hill focus.
Friday: TGIF, 7:00 am, meet at San Juan Fitness where coffee is always free on Friday. Easy running.
Sunday:
To be announced later.
Congrats to Laura Tretter for finishing the Des Monies Marathon in 4:44. This was Laura's third marathon since the beginning of September.
Tuesday: Hell Repeat Tuesday, 5:30 pm, meet at the track. We will run a three mile warm-up and then spend time on Hill Repeat Hill with repeats between 5 and 10.
Wednesday: Easy Wednesday, 5:30 pm, meet at San Juan Fitness. An easy 4 or 5 mile recovery run.
Thursday: Hill Are Our Friends Running, 5:30 pm, meet at San Juan Fitness. This week we will run 6 to 7 miles with hill focus.
Friday: TGIF, 7:00 am, meet at San Juan Fitness where coffee is always free on Friday. Easy running.
Sunday: DOUGHNUT RUN!!!!! 8:00 am, a 11 mile run out to Roche Harbor for doughnuts and a ride back to town. Meet at San Juan Fitness. Don't want to run, but would not mind helping bringing folks back to town? Send me a email, we could use the rides.
Congrats to Susan Stehn for finishing the Royal Victoria Marathon in 3:49. Susan, you are a Rock Star!!
Here is the training schedule for the week starting 10/5:
Tuesday: Hill Repeats, 5:30 PM, meet at the track and we will run from there.
Thursday: Hills, Meet at 5:30 PM, at San Juan Fitness
Saturday/Sunday: I am off island this weekend, but let me know if you want to run with someone and I will get the word out. Email me at clark@runninginthesanjuans.com
Eric DeRoche and Daryl Smith, both known and respected running coaches from Bellingham will be here in Friday Harbor for a clinic on running technique - which is very important to all of us. Proper technique will help us be more effective and efficient runners while cutting down the in injury factor.
Attached is a flier with all the haps, so check it out and sign-up!
Tuesday: Morning Run. 7:00 am. Meet at Sunken Park. These are a 4 to 5 mile jaunt. Dress warm.
Wednesday: Evening Run. 6:00 pm. Meet at Sunken Park. Mileage 4 to 6.
Thursday: Thursday Night Track. 6:00 pm, at the track. Don't let the workout scare you away!
Warm-ups 4 x 400 of strides 1 x 200 with 200 recovery 2 x 400 with 400 recovery 4 x 800 with 400 recovery 2 x 400 with 400 recovery 1 x 200 with 200 recovery Cool-downs
Friday: TGIF, 7:00 am, meet at SJ Fitness
Sunday: Doughnut Run
8:00 am.Meet at SJ Fitness for a 11 mile run out to Roche Harbor for Doughnuts. Rides provided for return trip back to town.
Extra: after doughnuts we are starting a new tradition - The Jackson Beach Cold Water Soak, where we wade out into the water at Jackson Beach to cool off our tired legs and then hot tubing at SJ Fitness. Paul Hopkins, owner of SJ Fitness will provide a free day pass for all non-members who run and do the cool water soak. Thanks Paul!!
Margo, Brian, Clark and Jane braved the high 20 temperatures to run the 11.5 miles from Friday Harbor to Roche Harbor for doughnuts. This popular training run is a great way for runners to prepare for many of the regional races. Clark Gilbert, a Brooks Inspire Daily runner, coordinates these events and encourages any one interested in participating. Email Clark at clark@runninginthesanjuans.com for more information.
Is due to hit the news stands this week. This free regional publication that promotes all things fun in the outdoors can be found at most local shops; like Islands Bicycle, San Juan Fitness, Kings, Port of Friday Harbor, Best Western and a bunch of other places.
This issue will contain my article "And Then There Was The Mountain Lion", covering my experience at the Chuckanut 50K last spring.
I am heading over to Spokane, WA, with the Brooks ID Masters Team to compete in the National Club Cross Country Championships on December 13. I am totally excited about this event. Not only some good running opportunities, but I with be able to hang and chill with some really great Brooks Runners.
Now, all I need to do is drop my mile time by two minutes and 10 pounds off my weight.
Many thanks to Brooks for the offer to come along.
A new running group for women by women. Group is lead by Kerry Ann and Boo Boo, two really nice people who have about 14 years of running between them. I had the pleasure of running the Bellingham Bay Marathon with these two and had a very nice time.
This group meets on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, 9:20, at San Juan Fitness
Come and enjoy some great running with some great ladies.
Thanksgiving Day 9:00 am, registration opens up at 8:00 am at Best Western 5K course out and back on Lampard Road. Cost: $5.00 for adults More information: call San Juan Fitness, 378-4449
since I have updated this page. Here is a recap of the last few months.
5 Marathons in 6 Weeks: On October 12, in Victoria, BC, I finished my 5th marathon in 6 weeks by running the Royal Victoria Marathon, which was really nice. Perfect marathon weather, nice people, great course - all added up to a great way to finish my challenge. I was hoping to qualify for Boston, though didn't. I was just a tad too tired in my legs. Maybe next year. I am thinking of doing 8 marathons next year in 8 weeks. Might be fun.
Facebook: San Juan Runners is a new facebook group which is open for joining. Please visit here to join. San Juan Island Marathon and Half Marathon also has a facebook group, please visit here to join.
Consecutive Days of Running: As of Wednesday, November 19, I had logged 535 days. Though my streak almost came to an end due to a nasty cold that I had. But I kept going, my minimum day of running is 30 minutes or 3 miles.
Other than that, things have been going pretty good for me, lately. Body is holding up just fine and I am looking forward to winter running. (I lie).
For the past few months I have been training and preparing for, what I have called, Clark's Fall Challenge. It's a simple challenge, to run 5 marathons in 6 weeks. Simple, right?
My first event, the Skagit Flats Marathon, is this coming Sunday, September 7, 8:00 am. http://www.skagitflatsmarathon.com/. Attached is a map of the course.
This is an older event and one which I have run in the late 90's. I am excited. My goal zone for this race is 3:40 to 3:59.
To date, September 5, I have run 460 consecutive days and my body is working just fine.
Clark's Fall Challenge Marathons are:
Skagit Flats Marathon on September 7 Little Grand Canyon on September 13 in Utah Lake Chelan Shore to Shore on September 20 Bellingham Bay Marathon on September 28 Royal Victoria Marathon on October 12
Today, Sunday, July 20, I ran my 411 day of consecutive running. Paul and I ran from Friday Harbor out to Roche Harbor, a 12 mile run, and then ate a couple of doughnuts (a great way to conclude a 12 mile run) and caught a ride back into town. We had a nice run, at tad foggy at the beginning and then, once we crested Chaddy Mtn, the sun broke through with clear and bright skies. From then on we had warm temperatures and beautiful scenery. This was a excellent day for running.
I now have over 220 miles on my Brooks Glycerin 6 running shoes and I am continually being impressed. They are most comfortable, seem to be wearing really well, and just a great shoe to run in. Check out: http://www.brooksrunning.com/ for more information on these great shoes. As some of you know I left a 20 year relationship with Asics, but, lately, was not happy with the quality or performance of their shoes.
After some researched I decided to give the Brooks Glycerin 6 a try and I was so impressed that I have made the switch to Brooks. Not only is Brooks working on developing great shoes, they are also developing ways to lessen the environmental impacts related to running shoes and their packaging. You can read about what Brooks is doing for the betterment of our sport, by producing great products, at the above web site.
To keep me going and to add some zest to this late arriving summer, I have developed a challenge. The 5 Marathons in 6 Weeks Challenge.
Here is the plan. I will run these events:
Sept 7: Skagit Flats Marathon in Burlington Sept 13: Little Grand Canyon Marathon in Utah Sept 20: Chelan Parks Shore to Shore Marathon in Chelan Sept 28: Bellingham Bay Marathon in Bellingham Oct 5: Taking this week off Oct 12: Royal Victoria Marathon in Victoria, BC
Want to join the challenge? Send me a email: clark@runninginthesanjuans.com
Ah, finally, summer is seeming to be here. After this winter/spring I am very happy to see the warm days. Here are some weekly events to keep you running!
Tuesday: Tuesday Night Tempo Running. 6:00 pm, San Juan Fitness. These fast pace runs will help you prepare for your fall events.
Wednesday: Wednesday Night Easy Running. 6:00 pm, Sunken Park. Join runners of all levels of fitness for an easy, but enjoyable, 5 to 7 miles.
Thursday: Thursday Night Trailrunning. 6:00 pm, British Camp Parking Lot. Come explore the multitudes of trails that encompass British Camp, Roche Harbor Watershed and the DNR lands. Runs can ran range from 5 miles up to 10 or more for the more aggressive runner. Master running Mt. Young!
Friday: Friday Morning Wake-up. 6:30 am, San Juan Fitness. Meet for a 5 to 8 mile easy to regular run with those who like the morning hours for running. Friday is Coffee Free Friday at San Juan Fitness.
Due to some errors in our recording of times, and not being able to read hand writing, I am not able to post the results. If you would like your finishing time, please email me at clark@runninginthesanjuans.com and give me your name and number I can provide you with a result.
Also new is the 
