A friend sent me this picture today, and I'm happy to say that this is one encounter I'm very glad I've never had!
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
E-I-E-I-O
In my first book, Running Shorts: A Collection of Stories and Advice for Antone Who Has Ever Laced Up a Pair of Running Shoes, I penned a chapter entitled, 'E-I-E-I-O, in which I described some of my animal encounters along the roads over the years.
A friend sent me this picture today, and I'm happy to say that this is one encounter I'm very glad I've never had!
A friend sent me this picture today, and I'm happy to say that this is one encounter I'm very glad I've never had!
A LULU OF AN APRIL FOOL
April Fool's Day is tomorrow, and with an 'Alberta Clipper' poised to dump more snow, I'm hoping the weather gods are pulling a prank on us.
My publisher, Lulu, www.lulu.com, has a great sale going on for the next two days, and they're NOT joking. From now until April 2, Lulu is offering 25% off all print books, AND 50% off shipping.
Lulu has published both my books about running. They are books written by a veteran runner, for runners.
The cool thing about having written two books about running is that they are two contrasting works.
My first book, Running Shorts: A Collection of Stories and Advice for Anyone Who Has Ever Laced Up a Pair of Running Shoes, published in 2011, is a compilation of my experiences as competitive runner for 39 years, but many of these tales reflect experiences YOU have had during your years as a runner. As one of the Amazon reviewers stated, "It will make you laugh and it will make you cry."
Traveling the country, promoting my first book, prompted me to write, Personal Best, my second book, published in September 2014.
Runners told me what they wanted in a running book, and I tried to respond by writing a book that is instructive to runners of all ages and abilities.
Personal Best took a tragic turn in April 2013, soon after I crossed the finish line at the Boston Marathon. I devoted my first chapter, entitled "Was That Thunder," to the events, and my experiences of that day. I guarantee you, it is worth the read, and it is my fervent hope that I was able to capture the emotions of that fateful day in a manner in which every runner can relate.
If you would like read an electronic version of Personal Best, it is available for only $2.99 at Amazon, Lulu, iBooks, Nook, and Kobo.
You can visit my website: www,muldowneyrunning.com, and I will personally sign and send a book to you. You can go to Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or take advantage of the sale at Lulu, to purchase running books that will positively influence your future running efforts.
And, it doesn't end there!
Read the books and stay in touch. email me here, look me up on Facebook at: Joe Muldowney Running, or on Twitter at: rdrunnr00. Tell me about your running, ask me questions, discuss training or injury issues.
I love this sport, and I love runners.
Let's get to the finish line together.
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My publisher, Lulu, www.lulu.com, has a great sale going on for the next two days, and they're NOT joking. From now until April 2, Lulu is offering 25% off all print books, AND 50% off shipping.
Lulu has published both my books about running. They are books written by a veteran runner, for runners.
The cool thing about having written two books about running is that they are two contrasting works.
My first book, Running Shorts: A Collection of Stories and Advice for Anyone Who Has Ever Laced Up a Pair of Running Shoes, published in 2011, is a compilation of my experiences as competitive runner for 39 years, but many of these tales reflect experiences YOU have had during your years as a runner. As one of the Amazon reviewers stated, "It will make you laugh and it will make you cry."
Traveling the country, promoting my first book, prompted me to write, Personal Best, my second book, published in September 2014.
Runners told me what they wanted in a running book, and I tried to respond by writing a book that is instructive to runners of all ages and abilities.
Personal Best took a tragic turn in April 2013, soon after I crossed the finish line at the Boston Marathon. I devoted my first chapter, entitled "Was That Thunder," to the events, and my experiences of that day. I guarantee you, it is worth the read, and it is my fervent hope that I was able to capture the emotions of that fateful day in a manner in which every runner can relate.
If you would like read an electronic version of Personal Best, it is available for only $2.99 at Amazon, Lulu, iBooks, Nook, and Kobo.
You can visit my website: www,muldowneyrunning.com, and I will personally sign and send a book to you. You can go to Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or take advantage of the sale at Lulu, to purchase running books that will positively influence your future running efforts.
And, it doesn't end there!
Read the books and stay in touch. email me here, look me up on Facebook at: Joe Muldowney Running, or on Twitter at: rdrunnr00. Tell me about your running, ask me questions, discuss training or injury issues.
I love this sport, and I love runners.
Let's get to the finish line together.
Monday, March 30, 2015
1099-IT'S MORE THAN A TAX FORM
| Before the income tax deadline of April 15, you can visit my website: www,muldowneyrunning.com, and I will personally sign and send a copy of my latest book, Personal Best, to you. Currently, both of my books are on sale for $10.99 (not the tax form), plus shipping and handling. You can also go to Amazon, Barnes and Noble, to purchase running books that will positively influence your future running efforts. Recently, I checked my author page on Amazon, amazon.com/author/joemuldowney and I was happy and humbled to read the following words from John M,
very inspirational,
By
Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Personal Best (Kindle Edition)
Coming back from an injury that sidelined me over the fall and winter, Joe reminds me what started my running career. Thanks, Joe!
|
I don't know John M., but, upon reading his review, it reaffirmed my reasons for writing Personal Best. By reading Personal Best, you will receive great running advice, tips on training, yes, some inspiration. And if you purchase an electronic version of my latest book, Personal Best, will cost you less than a popular running magazine, without the advertisements!
My first book, Running Shorts: A Collection of Stories and Advice for Anyone Who Has Ever Laced Up a Pair of Running Shoes, published in 2011, is a compilation of my experiences as competitive runner for 39 years, but many of these tales reflect experiences YOU have had during your years as a runner. As one of the Amazon reviewers stated, "It will make you laugh and it will make you cry."
Traveling the country, promoting my first book, prompted me to write, Personal Best, my second book, published in September 2014.
Runners told me what they wanted in a running book, and I tried to respond by writing a book that is instructive to runners of all ages and abilities.
Personal Best took a tragic turn in April 2013, soon after I crossed the finish line at the Boston Marathon. I devoted my first chapter, entitled "Was That Thunder," to the events, and my experiences of that day. I guarantee you, it is worth the read, and it is my fervent hope that I was able to capture the emotions of that fateful day in a manner in which every runner can relate.
If you would like read an electronic version of Personal Best, it is available for only $2.99 at Amazon, Lulu, iBooks, Nook, and Kobo.
Read the books and stay in touch. email me here, look me up on Facebook at: Joe Muldowney Running, or on Twitter at: rdrunnr00. Tell me about your running, ask me questions, discuss training or injury issues.
I love this sport, and I love runners.
If one word of what you read in this blog or in one of my books makes you a better runner, or makes you feel better about running,then I feel I've paid it forward, and that's as satisfying as winning any race.
Sunday, March 29, 2015
RUNNING AND ONIONS
Another Arctic blast gripped our region yesterday. When I left for my run, the temperature read a very January-like 29 degrees. In the morning, a light blanket of ground covered the ground.
After five months of snow, and with April around the corner, it is my fondest hope that yesterday's dusting was our "onion snow."
Chances are, if you or your relatives are not from around these parts, you have no idea what I'm talking about.
After William Penn and the Quakers settled Pennsylvania in the late 1600s, Penn actually advertised his colony in Europe. The similar climate, terrain, and growing season appealed particularly to the Germans, who brought their efficient methods of farming to the hills of Pennsylvania.
Mistakenly called the "Pennsylvania Dutch," when they told the English settlers they hailed from Deutschland, they planted their early crops in March. One of the first crops to enter the ground was the onion crop. Hence, early-Spring snow has earned the moniker, "onion snow."
Now, I don't possess the farming skills of the Pennsylvania Dutch, (although my mother boasts German heritage), I usually try to plant onions in my garden around Saint Patrick's Day.
Not this year!
Today I ran my best five-mile workout since October. The temperature, only in the low 40s, was boosted by intense sunshine, and the sky took on a periwinkle blue hue. It was a great day to work outside, cleaning up winter's mess. I decided to prepare my garden for what I hoped would be an insertion of lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, and, of course, spring onions, later this week. As I swung the pick into the ground, the point stuck, gripped by an icy claw. To my dismay, the ground is still frozen, so the onions will have to wait.
However, temperatures have begun to moderate, and for runners, the next few weeks should bring ideal training and racing temperatures before the summer heat descends upon us.
Take advantage of the April and May days of spring. As life renews itself around us, renew your commitment to training. Snow, ice, and frozen temperatures are gone or a while, and we've once again survived winter's wrath.
The onions may have to wait, but running season is in full bloom.
After five months of snow, and with April around the corner, it is my fondest hope that yesterday's dusting was our "onion snow."
Chances are, if you or your relatives are not from around these parts, you have no idea what I'm talking about.
After William Penn and the Quakers settled Pennsylvania in the late 1600s, Penn actually advertised his colony in Europe. The similar climate, terrain, and growing season appealed particularly to the Germans, who brought their efficient methods of farming to the hills of Pennsylvania.
Mistakenly called the "Pennsylvania Dutch," when they told the English settlers they hailed from Deutschland, they planted their early crops in March. One of the first crops to enter the ground was the onion crop. Hence, early-Spring snow has earned the moniker, "onion snow."
Now, I don't possess the farming skills of the Pennsylvania Dutch, (although my mother boasts German heritage), I usually try to plant onions in my garden around Saint Patrick's Day.
Not this year!
Today I ran my best five-mile workout since October. The temperature, only in the low 40s, was boosted by intense sunshine, and the sky took on a periwinkle blue hue. It was a great day to work outside, cleaning up winter's mess. I decided to prepare my garden for what I hoped would be an insertion of lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, and, of course, spring onions, later this week. As I swung the pick into the ground, the point stuck, gripped by an icy claw. To my dismay, the ground is still frozen, so the onions will have to wait.
However, temperatures have begun to moderate, and for runners, the next few weeks should bring ideal training and racing temperatures before the summer heat descends upon us.
Take advantage of the April and May days of spring. As life renews itself around us, renew your commitment to training. Snow, ice, and frozen temperatures are gone or a while, and we've once again survived winter's wrath.
The onions may have to wait, but running season is in full bloom.
Friday, March 27, 2015
SUPPORT THE FUTURE OF OUR SPORT
This week, despite frigid temperatures, the high school track and field season began here in northeastern Pennsylvania. Athletes have been practicing for about three weeks, but snowy and icy conditions forced most teams indoors, so when the first meets were contested on Tuesday, they were little more than intense workouts, means of allowing coaches to gauge their talent pool.
Track and field ranks as the world's oldest sport. The ancient Greeks held games at the base of Mount Olympus as a means of honoring the gods they believed resided there. Sprint races, javelin and discus throwing were some of the events we contest in our track and field meets, some 2700 years later.
From lithe distance runners to burly shot put hurlers, a track meet is like a three-ring circus, featuring sprints, hurdles, horizontal and vertical jumps, distance races, and throwing events.
And unlike many other sports, there's no subjective evaluation in track and field. No one can argue that, "He's a better hitter," or "She's a better 3-point shooter." If you run faster, jump higher, or throw farther, you are, statistically, the best.
Track and field athletes work very hard to perfect their crafts, but since it is not a "money generating" sport, it is often ignored or poorly funded. With the exception of the University of Oregon, few stadiums are filled for track meets.
This spring, make it a point to attend a track and field meet. Support the young men and women who do what you do. Encourage the distance runners to train year-round.
They may be high school students, but they are the future of our sport, of which there is no retirement age.
Track and field ranks as the world's oldest sport. The ancient Greeks held games at the base of Mount Olympus as a means of honoring the gods they believed resided there. Sprint races, javelin and discus throwing were some of the events we contest in our track and field meets, some 2700 years later.
From lithe distance runners to burly shot put hurlers, a track meet is like a three-ring circus, featuring sprints, hurdles, horizontal and vertical jumps, distance races, and throwing events.
And unlike many other sports, there's no subjective evaluation in track and field. No one can argue that, "He's a better hitter," or "She's a better 3-point shooter." If you run faster, jump higher, or throw farther, you are, statistically, the best.
Track and field athletes work very hard to perfect their crafts, but since it is not a "money generating" sport, it is often ignored or poorly funded. With the exception of the University of Oregon, few stadiums are filled for track meets.
This spring, make it a point to attend a track and field meet. Support the young men and women who do what you do. Encourage the distance runners to train year-round.
They may be high school students, but they are the future of our sport, of which there is no retirement age.
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
SPRING TRAINING MANUAL
Spring has arrived, and it's time refine our goals for the new racing season.
How are you going to improve your running and racing this year?
Have you figured how you're going to remain vertical on the tightrope without falling off?
That is, how you're going to run your fastest times without getting injured?
Or, perhaps you're coming back from an injury and you need some inspiration.
Believe me, I've been there, so I feel your pain.
Here's a guarantee I'll make to you.
If you want to receive some great running advice and tips on training, an electronic version of my latest book, Personal Best, will cost you less than a popular running magazine, without the advertisements!
My first book, Running Shorts: A Collection of Stories and Advice for Anyone Who Has Ever Laced Up a Pair of Running Shoes, published in 2011, is a compilation of my experiences as competitive runner for 39 years, but many of these tales reflect experiences YOU have had during your years as a runner. As one of the Amazon reviewers stated, "It will make you laugh and it will make you cry."
Traveling the country, promoting my first book, prompted me to write, Personal Best, my second book, published in September 2014.
Runners told me what they wanted in a running book, and I tried to respond by writing a book that is instructive to runners of all ages and abilities.
Personal Best took a tragic turn in April 2013, soon after I crossed the finish line at the Boston Marathon. I devoted my first chapter, entitled "Was That Thunder," to the events, and my experiences of that day. I guarantee you, it is worth the read, and it is my fervent hope that I was able to capture the emotions of that fateful day in a manner in which every runner can relate.
If you would like read an electronic version of Personal Best, it is available for only $2.99 at Amazon, Lulu, iBooks, Nook, and Kobo.
You can visit my website: www,muldowneyrunning.com, and I will personally sign and send a book to you. Currently, both books are on sale for $11.99, plus shipping and handling. You can also go to Amazon, Barnes and Noble, to purchase running books that will positively influence your future running efforts.
And, it doesn't end there!
Read the books and stay in touch. email me here, look me up on Facebook at: Joe Muldowney Running, or on Twitter at: rdrunnr00. Tell me about your running, ask me questions, discuss training or injury issues.
I love this sport, and I love runners.
If one word of what you read in this blog or in one of my books makes you a better runner, or makes you feel better about running,then I feel I've paid it forward, and that's as satisfying as winning any race.
amazon.com/author/joemuldowney
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
MARCH MADNESS
Most of the snow in most of the country is gone. High school and college track teams are preparing for their upcoming seasons. The Boston Marathon is less than a month away. Marathon season is on the horizon for many competitors.
March is a frenetic month.
In many ways it is a month of evaluation. We begin to test ourselves. It is time to race again. Time to hit the track and see how much speed remains in our legs after a winter of slogging around.
Some runners have already turned a race or a few. This weekend, 28,000 runners participated in the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon and Half Marathon in Virginia Beach. Two weeks ago, on the west coast, 40,000 runners braved oven-like conditions at the Los Angeles Marathon.
It's time to break out and get crazy.
Spring is here and it's a time of renewal for us.
Time to set those goals for the new racing year, but more than that, it's time to work on ways to achieve those goals.
Here are a few suggestions.
--Assess your needs-Do you "die" in the last miles of your races? If so, work on your stamina. Add some miles to your week, but make them "quality" miles. Simply, run faster on your training runs. Add some hills to increase your stamina.
--Pete McGuirk passed me in the last mile again!--You need to get to the track! If you're getting outsprinted, you must work on your leg speed. Interval workouts are essential to successful racing, at any distance.
--Set up your business plan--I'm talking about the business of racing. If you're running a marathon in the spring, pour your efforts into that endeavor. After a month of recovery, it's time to refocus. Perhaps you should run a few 5K's during the summer, and then look at a fall marathon.
--Don't overrace--Quality, not quantity here.
--Enjoy the ride--Go on vacation. make sure you run while you're there, but during that week, have fun with the spouse and kids, relax, let things heal up, and return home rested and re-energized.
So, "March" into this season with renewed vigor and lofty goals.
You'll be "mad" if you don't.
www.muldowneyrunning.com
March is a frenetic month.
In many ways it is a month of evaluation. We begin to test ourselves. It is time to race again. Time to hit the track and see how much speed remains in our legs after a winter of slogging around.
Some runners have already turned a race or a few. This weekend, 28,000 runners participated in the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon and Half Marathon in Virginia Beach. Two weeks ago, on the west coast, 40,000 runners braved oven-like conditions at the Los Angeles Marathon.
It's time to break out and get crazy.
Spring is here and it's a time of renewal for us.
Time to set those goals for the new racing year, but more than that, it's time to work on ways to achieve those goals.
Here are a few suggestions.
--Assess your needs-Do you "die" in the last miles of your races? If so, work on your stamina. Add some miles to your week, but make them "quality" miles. Simply, run faster on your training runs. Add some hills to increase your stamina.
--Pete McGuirk passed me in the last mile again!--You need to get to the track! If you're getting outsprinted, you must work on your leg speed. Interval workouts are essential to successful racing, at any distance.
--Set up your business plan--I'm talking about the business of racing. If you're running a marathon in the spring, pour your efforts into that endeavor. After a month of recovery, it's time to refocus. Perhaps you should run a few 5K's during the summer, and then look at a fall marathon.
--Don't overrace--Quality, not quantity here.
--Enjoy the ride--Go on vacation. make sure you run while you're there, but during that week, have fun with the spouse and kids, relax, let things heal up, and return home rested and re-energized.
So, "March" into this season with renewed vigor and lofty goals.
You'll be "mad" if you don't.
www.muldowneyrunning.com
Saturday, March 21, 2015
A CONTINUAL JOURNEY...STEP BY STEP
Some 22 months ago, two torn hamstring tendons put the rest of my running career in jeopardy. If I healed properly, according to my orthopedic surgeon, I may be able to someday "jog" again.
There have been many days since that eventful afternoon of May 7, 2013, that I have felt like little more than a jogger.
While I have struggled, slowly, through two half marathons, I needed the feel of some speed again, although, given my diminished state, "speed" has become a relative term.
Today, in the sleepy southern town of Conway, South Carolina, I "got back on the horse," and ran my first 5K since a charity race held a week after the 2013 Boston Marathon, to raise funds for the bombing victims.
My 5K time was 45 seconds a mile slower than my 2013 Boston Marathon mile average, but I was pleased. I managed to earn a 2nd place in my age division, and I felt good and fairly strong in doing so.
Toni Birchler, a fellow runner I met at the Myrtle Beach Marathon expo last month, has recently begun her running journey. She captured 3rd place in her age group, and her PR's continue to fall.
Toni's best running days lie ahead.
So do yours.
So do mine.
Running is a never-ending journey. We encounter setbacks and we work to overcome them. Whether it's achieving a personal best, an effort to lose weight and become fit, or to conquer distances like the marathon, running is about defining, then achieving our goals.
And when we do?
It's on to setting new goals on this continual journey.
Setting goals?
Working toward your personal best?
Want to learn how to get there?
Read Personal Best.
www.muldowneyrunning.com
There have been many days since that eventful afternoon of May 7, 2013, that I have felt like little more than a jogger.
While I have struggled, slowly, through two half marathons, I needed the feel of some speed again, although, given my diminished state, "speed" has become a relative term.
Today, in the sleepy southern town of Conway, South Carolina, I "got back on the horse," and ran my first 5K since a charity race held a week after the 2013 Boston Marathon, to raise funds for the bombing victims.
My 5K time was 45 seconds a mile slower than my 2013 Boston Marathon mile average, but I was pleased. I managed to earn a 2nd place in my age division, and I felt good and fairly strong in doing so.
Toni Birchler, a fellow runner I met at the Myrtle Beach Marathon expo last month, has recently begun her running journey. She captured 3rd place in her age group, and her PR's continue to fall.
Toni's best running days lie ahead.
So do yours.
So do mine.
Running is a never-ending journey. We encounter setbacks and we work to overcome them. Whether it's achieving a personal best, an effort to lose weight and become fit, or to conquer distances like the marathon, running is about defining, then achieving our goals.
And when we do?
It's on to setting new goals on this continual journey.
Setting goals?
Working toward your personal best?
Want to learn how to get there?
Read Personal Best.
www.muldowneyrunning.com
Thursday, March 19, 2015
FUN, FELLOWSHIP..RUNNING
For most of us, running is an integral part of our lives. We eat, we sleep, we run. When we travel on vacation or for business purposes, a major priority is to find running routes nearby.
My family and I have vacationed at Myrtle Beach for the past 25 years. We love the beautiful beaches, the food, the attractions for people of all ages, and the legendary 'Southern Hospitality.'
Like an exhausted heavyweight boxer in the final rounds, the past few Pennsylvania winters have taken their toll on my old, tired, weary body, so I finally cried, "No mas."
In December, my wife and I bought a condo in Myrtle Beach, and it is our intent to spend as many days a year here as our schedules will allow. As I write, spring will arrive in Pennsylvania with a four inch snowfall sometime tomorrow.
Having run the Myrtle Beach Half Marathon in 2012, and in the process of selling my first book, Running Shorts: A Collection of Stories and Advice for Anyone Who Has Ever Laced Up a Pair of Running Shoes, www.muldowneyrunning.com, at the marathon expo, I found the area runners to be a friendly, downright cool bunch of folks.
So, when we decided to buy our place, I reached out to the local running group, the Grand Strand Running Club. http://www.grandstrandrunner.com. I had visited their website and was impressed by their activities and their "runner first" approach to a running club concept. I immediately received a response from an extremely talented runner, and former Pennsylvania native, Jane Millspaugh Sereus, who put me in touch with club president, Roscoe Griffin.
Roscoe, a veteran runner, is the perfect club president. He 'sold' me on the club with his gracious demeanor and his passion for the sport.
Check out the website and take a look at the club's achievements in 2014 alone.
Last night, my wife and I had an opportunity to participate in our first Grand Strand Running Club event.
The club held a group 5K training run, beginning at a local Mexican restaurant, followed by a club social. Approximate 20 club members participated in the group run, with over 30 in attendance at the social.
To say we felt welcome would be a gross understatement. Each club member was congenial, and we had a terrific time.
We intend to attend as many club events as we can when we are here.
If you visit the Myrtle Beach area, I would highly recommend you check out one of the many club-sponsored races.
And if you're a runner and you reside near Myrtle Beach, you owe it to yourself to join the Grand Strand Running Club.
They are a group of runners of all ages and abilities, but they are an Olympic-quality, world-class organization.
My family and I have vacationed at Myrtle Beach for the past 25 years. We love the beautiful beaches, the food, the attractions for people of all ages, and the legendary 'Southern Hospitality.'
Like an exhausted heavyweight boxer in the final rounds, the past few Pennsylvania winters have taken their toll on my old, tired, weary body, so I finally cried, "No mas."
In December, my wife and I bought a condo in Myrtle Beach, and it is our intent to spend as many days a year here as our schedules will allow. As I write, spring will arrive in Pennsylvania with a four inch snowfall sometime tomorrow.
Having run the Myrtle Beach Half Marathon in 2012, and in the process of selling my first book, Running Shorts: A Collection of Stories and Advice for Anyone Who Has Ever Laced Up a Pair of Running Shoes, www.muldowneyrunning.com, at the marathon expo, I found the area runners to be a friendly, downright cool bunch of folks.
So, when we decided to buy our place, I reached out to the local running group, the Grand Strand Running Club. http://www.grandstrandrunner.com. I had visited their website and was impressed by their activities and their "runner first" approach to a running club concept. I immediately received a response from an extremely talented runner, and former Pennsylvania native, Jane Millspaugh Sereus, who put me in touch with club president, Roscoe Griffin.
Roscoe, a veteran runner, is the perfect club president. He 'sold' me on the club with his gracious demeanor and his passion for the sport.
Check out the website and take a look at the club's achievements in 2014 alone.
Last night, my wife and I had an opportunity to participate in our first Grand Strand Running Club event.
The club held a group 5K training run, beginning at a local Mexican restaurant, followed by a club social. Approximate 20 club members participated in the group run, with over 30 in attendance at the social.
To say we felt welcome would be a gross understatement. Each club member was congenial, and we had a terrific time.
We intend to attend as many club events as we can when we are here.
If you visit the Myrtle Beach area, I would highly recommend you check out one of the many club-sponsored races.
And if you're a runner and you reside near Myrtle Beach, you owe it to yourself to join the Grand Strand Running Club.
They are a group of runners of all ages and abilities, but they are an Olympic-quality, world-class organization.
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
IT CAN HUMBLE YOU
Bill Rodgers, former American record holder in the marathon, as well as four-time Boston and three-time New City Marathon winner, once said, "The marathon can humble you."
If you've ever run a marathon, you know that truer running words were never spoken.
This past weekend, two good friends of mine had turned in some awesome winter training in preparation for marathons on both coasts.
Out in Los Angeles, record heat baked the field of over 26,000 runners. Many runners suffered heat exhaustion, and 30 need to be hospitalized. My friend, who had hoped to break the 3:30 barrier, adjusted his goal to the high 3:30s. As he cruised along, ingesting as much water as he could, he suffered severe leg cramps at mile 22, dropping him to a 3:45 finish time.
Indeed, I felt his pain.
At the 2012 Boston Marathon, after a winter of intense training, I winced as, throughout the week prior to the race, forecasted temperatures kept rising. On race day, temperatures topped out in the high 80s, and there was absolutely no shade. I adjusted my sub-7:00 per mile pace to a 7:30. By the time I reached mile 18, my paced had been reduced to over 8:00 a mile, and I had no stamina remaining for the Newton Hills. I stepped off the course, and took a ride from Boston College to the finish line.
At the Newport News Marathon on Sunday, Wayne Parfitt, who has run marathons in the 2:30s, was prepared as he awaited the start. He had logged many hard winter miles.
He went out aggressively, and as his race progressed, he was cruising to a sub-2:45 effort. At 21 miles, his legs began to falter, and with the finish line in sight, at a mere .1 mile remaining, the legs failed, he collapsed to the ground, and struggled to finish in 3:00:30.
The absolute worst enemy of a marathon runner is the heat. We can't control it, and we can't just throw away the many months of training. Unless one is a finely tuned, elite runner, your marathon time will always suffer if it's hot.
There is a fine tightrope we walk when we run a marathon. You push hard to achieve your personal best, but sometimes you fall off the tightrope, as your legs simply refuse to respond to your body's plea to go another couple of miles.
Even a blister can dash the hopes for marathon success.
Enter each marathon with realistic expectations, and also with a Plan B. After my failure at the 2012 Boston Marathon, I regrouped, counted it as an 18-mile training run, then successfully ran the Pocono Run for the Red Marathon a month later.
When all the ingredients are mixed together properly, the marathon, a potentially humbling experience, can be the most gratifying and satisfying achievement of your running life.
www.muldowneyrunning.com
If you've ever run a marathon, you know that truer running words were never spoken.
This past weekend, two good friends of mine had turned in some awesome winter training in preparation for marathons on both coasts.
Out in Los Angeles, record heat baked the field of over 26,000 runners. Many runners suffered heat exhaustion, and 30 need to be hospitalized. My friend, who had hoped to break the 3:30 barrier, adjusted his goal to the high 3:30s. As he cruised along, ingesting as much water as he could, he suffered severe leg cramps at mile 22, dropping him to a 3:45 finish time.
Indeed, I felt his pain.
At the 2012 Boston Marathon, after a winter of intense training, I winced as, throughout the week prior to the race, forecasted temperatures kept rising. On race day, temperatures topped out in the high 80s, and there was absolutely no shade. I adjusted my sub-7:00 per mile pace to a 7:30. By the time I reached mile 18, my paced had been reduced to over 8:00 a mile, and I had no stamina remaining for the Newton Hills. I stepped off the course, and took a ride from Boston College to the finish line.
At the Newport News Marathon on Sunday, Wayne Parfitt, who has run marathons in the 2:30s, was prepared as he awaited the start. He had logged many hard winter miles.
He went out aggressively, and as his race progressed, he was cruising to a sub-2:45 effort. At 21 miles, his legs began to falter, and with the finish line in sight, at a mere .1 mile remaining, the legs failed, he collapsed to the ground, and struggled to finish in 3:00:30.
The absolute worst enemy of a marathon runner is the heat. We can't control it, and we can't just throw away the many months of training. Unless one is a finely tuned, elite runner, your marathon time will always suffer if it's hot.
There is a fine tightrope we walk when we run a marathon. You push hard to achieve your personal best, but sometimes you fall off the tightrope, as your legs simply refuse to respond to your body's plea to go another couple of miles.
Even a blister can dash the hopes for marathon success.
Enter each marathon with realistic expectations, and also with a Plan B. After my failure at the 2012 Boston Marathon, I regrouped, counted it as an 18-mile training run, then successfully ran the Pocono Run for the Red Marathon a month later.
When all the ingredients are mixed together properly, the marathon, a potentially humbling experience, can be the most gratifying and satisfying achievement of your running life.
www.muldowneyrunning.com
Monday, March 16, 2015
5 ESSENTIAL THINGS FOR SPRING
Winter officially departs in four days, and few of us are sad about it.
Hopefully, you have "maintained," through what has been, in many areas of the United States, a harsh winter.
If you have maintained your fitness level and have not regressed since last fall, here are five recommendations for a successful spring and summer running season.
1. Speed-If you read my blog regularly, you know that I preach a need for speed, for every race distance. In fact, I read an article last week which suggested that, for runners over the age of 50, speed is even more important.
Speed work, of course, is all relative. Usain Bolt would chuclke at our idea of "speed," but it essentially goes like this. Let's say your goal is to run a 3-hour marathon, which equates to about a 6:56 per mile pace. On your weekly speed workout, you should be running FASTER than race pace. A 3 x 1 mile interval workout should be run at a 6:30 or better pace. 4 x 800s should be in the 3:00-3:15 range. A repeat 400 meter session is a terrific workout for any race distance. Now here's the key ingredient to your speed workout: rest (or lack of). You don't want your heartrate fall to rest level. Therefore, 'halve' your interval. If you're running a set of 800s, slowly jog 400 meters in between.
2. New Digs-Take a trip to your local running shop and buy a new pair of running shoes. Do your research, Choose the shoe for your, receive expert advice, and you'll feel better when you run. While you're at it, purchase a new pair of shorts, a shirt and socks. There's just something about new running clothing and shoes that makes you want to get out there and run.
3. Tech it Baby-I just 'copyright infringed' myself, since that's the title of a chapter in my book, Personal Best. www.muldowneyrunning.com. Purchase any technological product that's going to make you feel better when you run. We have more high-tech stuff for running then ever. Use it.
4. Phone a Friend-Find someone in your community who runs around the same pace as you, and run with them. Set meeting times and distances. Share your knowledge and training advice and listen to theirs. Running friends are important components of your training life.
5. Map it Out-Sit down and map out your running and racing goals for the next few months. Don't overrace, rather, concentrate on fewer, faster race efforts.
Follow these five essential spring rules and you'll be on your way to your personal best.
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Hopefully, you have "maintained," through what has been, in many areas of the United States, a harsh winter.
If you have maintained your fitness level and have not regressed since last fall, here are five recommendations for a successful spring and summer running season.
1. Speed-If you read my blog regularly, you know that I preach a need for speed, for every race distance. In fact, I read an article last week which suggested that, for runners over the age of 50, speed is even more important.
Speed work, of course, is all relative. Usain Bolt would chuclke at our idea of "speed," but it essentially goes like this. Let's say your goal is to run a 3-hour marathon, which equates to about a 6:56 per mile pace. On your weekly speed workout, you should be running FASTER than race pace. A 3 x 1 mile interval workout should be run at a 6:30 or better pace. 4 x 800s should be in the 3:00-3:15 range. A repeat 400 meter session is a terrific workout for any race distance. Now here's the key ingredient to your speed workout: rest (or lack of). You don't want your heartrate fall to rest level. Therefore, 'halve' your interval. If you're running a set of 800s, slowly jog 400 meters in between.
2. New Digs-Take a trip to your local running shop and buy a new pair of running shoes. Do your research, Choose the shoe for your, receive expert advice, and you'll feel better when you run. While you're at it, purchase a new pair of shorts, a shirt and socks. There's just something about new running clothing and shoes that makes you want to get out there and run.
3. Tech it Baby-I just 'copyright infringed' myself, since that's the title of a chapter in my book, Personal Best. www.muldowneyrunning.com. Purchase any technological product that's going to make you feel better when you run. We have more high-tech stuff for running then ever. Use it.
4. Phone a Friend-Find someone in your community who runs around the same pace as you, and run with them. Set meeting times and distances. Share your knowledge and training advice and listen to theirs. Running friends are important components of your training life.
5. Map it Out-Sit down and map out your running and racing goals for the next few months. Don't overrace, rather, concentrate on fewer, faster race efforts.
Follow these five essential spring rules and you'll be on your way to your personal best.
Friday, March 13, 2015
MILESTONES
Today is my son, Logan's, 23nd birthday.
Upon graduation from high school, Logan served for four years in the United States Marine Corps. He earned an honorable discharge last April, having earned the rank of corporal.
Today, he is a student at Penn State,working on a degree in secondary education. He wants to teach history (like his dad).
On the day Logan was born, I celebrated by going out for a run, as I did for the birth of my daughters, Kelly and Megan, and as I did, to mourn, on the day of my father's death.
My daughter Kelly has run several marathons. Megan, a league champion at the 800 meter distance as a high school student, continues to run 5K races. And Logan, who can practically bench press a compact car, never did a whole lot of running, but when he was home on leave two summers ago, he put his old man through some fast paces on a three mile run through the mountains.
Many of the milestones of our lives are memorialized through our running.
Some of my oldest and dearest friends, who I wrote about in my first book, Running Shorts, www.muldowneyrunning.com, in the chapter entitled, 'Cast of Characters,' have entered my life thanks to running.
Running defines us. It's who we are. It grounds us. Running elevates our happy times and soothes us during times of sadness.
Many of us have heard from the haters who say, "You're gonna die out there on the road some day."
You know what?
That's not such a bad way to go.
Upon graduation from high school, Logan served for four years in the United States Marine Corps. He earned an honorable discharge last April, having earned the rank of corporal.
Today, he is a student at Penn State,working on a degree in secondary education. He wants to teach history (like his dad).
On the day Logan was born, I celebrated by going out for a run, as I did for the birth of my daughters, Kelly and Megan, and as I did, to mourn, on the day of my father's death.
My daughter Kelly has run several marathons. Megan, a league champion at the 800 meter distance as a high school student, continues to run 5K races. And Logan, who can practically bench press a compact car, never did a whole lot of running, but when he was home on leave two summers ago, he put his old man through some fast paces on a three mile run through the mountains.
Many of the milestones of our lives are memorialized through our running.
Some of my oldest and dearest friends, who I wrote about in my first book, Running Shorts, www.muldowneyrunning.com, in the chapter entitled, 'Cast of Characters,' have entered my life thanks to running.
Running defines us. It's who we are. It grounds us. Running elevates our happy times and soothes us during times of sadness.
Many of us have heard from the haters who say, "You're gonna die out there on the road some day."
You know what?
That's not such a bad way to go.
Thursday, March 12, 2015
"VERY INSPIRATIONAL"
Yesterday I checked my author page on Amazon, amazon.com/author/joemuldowney and I was happy and humbled to read the following words from John M,
very inspirational,
By
Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Personal Best (Kindle Edition)
Coming back from an injury that sidelined me over the fall and winter, Joe reminds me what started my running career. Thanks, Joe!
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I don't know John M., but, upon reading his review, it reaffirmed my reasons for writing Personal Best. By reading Personal Best, you will receive great running advice, tips on training, yes, some inspiration. And if you purchase an electronic version of my latest book, Personal Best, will cost you less than a popular running magazine, without the advertisements!
My first book, Running Shorts: A Collection of Stories and Advice for Anyone Who Has Ever Laced Up a Pair of Running Shoes, published in 2011, is a compilation of my experiences as competitive runner for 39 years, but many of these tales reflect experiences YOU have had during your years as a runner. As one of the Amazon reviewers stated, "It will make you laugh and it will make you cry."
Traveling the country, promoting my first book, prompted me to write, Personal Best, my second book, published in September 2014.
Runners told me what they wanted in a running book, and I tried to respond by writing a book that is instructive to runners of all ages and abilities.
Personal Best took a tragic turn in April 2013, soon after I crossed the finish line at the Boston Marathon. I devoted my first chapter, entitled "Was That Thunder," to the events, and my experiences of that day. I guarantee you, it is worth the read, and it is my fervent hope that I was able to capture the emotions of that fateful day in a manner in which every runner can relate.
If you would like read an electronic version of Personal Best, it is available for only $2.99 at Amazon, Lulu, iBooks, Nook, and Kobo.
You can visit my website: www,muldowneyrunning.com, and I will personally sign and send a book to you. Currently, both books are on sale for $11.99, plus shipping and handling. You can also go to Amazon, Barnes and Noble, to purchase running books that will positively influence your future running efforts.
And, it doesn't end there!
Read the books and stay in touch. email me here, look me up on Facebook at: Joe Muldowney Running, or on Twitter at: rdrunnr00. Tell me about your running, ask me questions, discuss training or injury issues.
I love this sport, and I love runners.
If one word of what you read in this blog or in one of my books makes you a better runner, or makes you feel better about running,then I feel I've paid it forward, and that's as satisfying as winning any race.
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
LOCAL RUNNING STORES-RUNNERS WHO KNOW RUNNERS
The weather has finally broken, the official arrival of spring is less than ten days away, we are renewed in our training efforts, and few things bolster that renewal more than a new pair of running shoes, snappy apparel, or some high-tech running gear.
Over the past couple of months I have had the opportunity to conduct book signings at three local running stores.
If you're a runner, male or female, of any age or ability level, you owe it to yourself to shop at the local running shop near you.
Local running shops are owned and staffed by runners who are extremely "Hands on." The products they recommend are more than often products they themselves have tried. They will recommend the shoe for you, and they will allow you to "test drive" the shoes by going for a run in them before you buy..
Local running shops conduct clinics, hold group runs, and sponsor local races and events. They are integral part of the local community as well as the running community.
The following personal experiences, I'm sure, will coincide with experiences you've had with your local running shop.
On Small Business Saturday, back in November, I spent an afternoon at A Running Start, http://www.arunningstart.biz/ars/, in West Reading, Pennsylvania. They offered local snacks and beverages to those who stopped by. The courteous and professional staff treated each customer like an Olympic champion, and owner, Sorita Fitzgerald, a runner and triathlete, was right there, assisting customers and staff. Just last week, a local runner and friend, Janelle Hooper, showed me her new pair of Hokas, told me how much she loved the shoes, and how Sorita, at A Running Start helped and fitted her for the new footwear.
On Friday, March 13, A Running Start will conduct a St. Paddy's Day Pub Run. They hold group runs ans speed workout sessions throughout the year.
Before Christmas I spent a delightful evening at the Emmaus Run Inn,http://emmausruninn.com/ in Emmaus, Pennsylvania. They also offered a delicious Holiday spread for customers, including a sampling of a local craft beer. Again, the staff offered courteous service and advice to everyone. I met up with an accomplished running friend, and veteran of many Lehigh Valley races, Franny Gough, who offers his wealth of knowledge and expertise to those who stop by. One of the best runners to come out of the Lehigh Valley, Mark Will-Weber, who is also a renowned coach and author of the terrific new book, entitled Mint Juleps With Teddy Roosevelt, was on hand to sign books, and owner Chris Schmidt, another "hands on" running store owner, was there to assist customers. I just checked out the Emmaus Run Inn website and discovered a great sale on Garmin watches. It's worth checking out.
On a bitter cold evening in early January, I visited the Chester County Running Store, http://www.runccrs.com/, at their Pottstown location. While folks struggled to run outdoors, given the frigid, icy conditions, Chester County Running Store owner, Don Morrison, utilizing a vacant department store, offered an indoor running night. Runners were afforded the opportunity to run in pleasant conditions, and Don joined in with them, logging several miles. In addition, a Garmin watch representative was there to answer questions, and a local chiropractor was on hand to assist runners.
The Chester County Running Store conducts Saturday morning long runs from their Pottstown store location, and they host and sponsor many running events throughout the year.
Local running stores are the lifeblood of our running communities. Visit one soon. You'll be glad you did.
Over the past couple of months I have had the opportunity to conduct book signings at three local running stores.
If you're a runner, male or female, of any age or ability level, you owe it to yourself to shop at the local running shop near you.
Local running shops are owned and staffed by runners who are extremely "Hands on." The products they recommend are more than often products they themselves have tried. They will recommend the shoe for you, and they will allow you to "test drive" the shoes by going for a run in them before you buy..
Local running shops conduct clinics, hold group runs, and sponsor local races and events. They are integral part of the local community as well as the running community.
The following personal experiences, I'm sure, will coincide with experiences you've had with your local running shop.
On Small Business Saturday, back in November, I spent an afternoon at A Running Start, http://www.arunningstart.biz/ars/, in West Reading, Pennsylvania. They offered local snacks and beverages to those who stopped by. The courteous and professional staff treated each customer like an Olympic champion, and owner, Sorita Fitzgerald, a runner and triathlete, was right there, assisting customers and staff. Just last week, a local runner and friend, Janelle Hooper, showed me her new pair of Hokas, told me how much she loved the shoes, and how Sorita, at A Running Start helped and fitted her for the new footwear.
On Friday, March 13, A Running Start will conduct a St. Paddy's Day Pub Run. They hold group runs ans speed workout sessions throughout the year.
Before Christmas I spent a delightful evening at the Emmaus Run Inn,http://emmausruninn.com/ in Emmaus, Pennsylvania. They also offered a delicious Holiday spread for customers, including a sampling of a local craft beer. Again, the staff offered courteous service and advice to everyone. I met up with an accomplished running friend, and veteran of many Lehigh Valley races, Franny Gough, who offers his wealth of knowledge and expertise to those who stop by. One of the best runners to come out of the Lehigh Valley, Mark Will-Weber, who is also a renowned coach and author of the terrific new book, entitled Mint Juleps With Teddy Roosevelt, was on hand to sign books, and owner Chris Schmidt, another "hands on" running store owner, was there to assist customers. I just checked out the Emmaus Run Inn website and discovered a great sale on Garmin watches. It's worth checking out.
On a bitter cold evening in early January, I visited the Chester County Running Store, http://www.runccrs.com/, at their Pottstown location. While folks struggled to run outdoors, given the frigid, icy conditions, Chester County Running Store owner, Don Morrison, utilizing a vacant department store, offered an indoor running night. Runners were afforded the opportunity to run in pleasant conditions, and Don joined in with them, logging several miles. In addition, a Garmin watch representative was there to answer questions, and a local chiropractor was on hand to assist runners.
The Chester County Running Store conducts Saturday morning long runs from their Pottstown store location, and they host and sponsor many running events throughout the year.
Local running stores are the lifeblood of our running communities. Visit one soon. You'll be glad you did.
Monday, March 9, 2015
RAISING MONEY FOR CHARITY THROUGH RUNNING-HIP CHIX
Runners are, for the most part, a kind, giving group. Today, more than ever, we can do what we love to do, and turn our performances into fundraising events.
My daughter, Kelly, ran her first marathon with the help of, and by raising money for, Team in Training, a funding arm of the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society. Since then, she and her husband, Mike, have raised thousands of dollars for this worthy cause.
If you are one of the many runners who have decided to pay it forward by raising funds for a charity, you realize that, in order to do so, takes quite a bit of effort.
Bake sales and garage sales, are sometimes just not enough.
Recently I heard about an excellent fundraising site that makes it easy and profitable for you to raise funds for your next event.
Hip Chix, http://www.hipchixfundraisers.com , is "The Uncommonly Cool Fundraiser."
And it really is!
It's an easy online jewelry fundraiser that's simple to get started. Hip Chix creates a unique link for you to their fundraising site. Using that link you will be able to reach donors near and far. There are no up front costs, no collecting orders, money or delivering product. Hip Chix does it all for you.
Now, here's the good news.
For all fundraisers that have total sales of $2,000 or less, you will receive a minimum of 40%. If you raise more than $2,000 your women's charity receives a minimum of 50% from each order.
I deferred to the real expert, my wife, who went to the site and declared, "I would definitely buy this jewelry."
Check out Hip Chix at: http://www.hipchixfundraisers.com.
They will make your fundraising effort an easy, fun, and profitable experience
Sunday, March 8, 2015
OUR COMMITMENT
Below is a Facebook post from Toni Birchler, who resides in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Toni is an Army veteran, and her husband is a United States Marine Corps veteran.
She has made the commitment to get back into shape through running, and she has done so successfully. Over the weekend she achieved her personal best 5K time by clocking a time of 28:58, placing 12th in her age group and 116th out of 508.
If my book, Personal Best, \www.muldowneyrunning.com, assisted her in any way, I am extremely happy. Personal Best is a goal, a commitment, and a lifestyle to which many of us adhere to. I can't guarantee that by reading my book you will achieve a personal best in every race, but I can guarantee that by reading it you will become a better runner in both mind and body.
Toni is an Army veteran, and her husband is a United States Marine Corps veteran.
She has made the commitment to get back into shape through running, and she has done so successfully. Over the weekend she achieved her personal best 5K time by clocking a time of 28:58, placing 12th in her age group and 116th out of 508.
If my book, Personal Best, \www.muldowneyrunning.com, assisted her in any way, I am extremely happy. Personal Best is a goal, a commitment, and a lifestyle to which many of us adhere to. I can't guarantee that by reading my book you will achieve a personal best in every race, but I can guarantee that by reading it you will become a better runner in both mind and body.
Excerpt from Personal Best by Joe Muldowney. Great book and highly recommend. Having said that.....
I'M TOTALLY DOWN WITH THIS!
I'M TOTALLY DOWN WITH THIS!
Saturday, March 7, 2015
SPRING FORWARD!
It simply wouldn't quit.
Like a boxer in the 15th round of a heavyweight bout, the March chapter of winter roared in this week with an ice/sleet storm on Tuesday, another 4 to 6 inches of snow on Wednesday, followed by single-digit, record low temperatures on Thursday evening.
But tonight, we spring forward.
The trilogy of March begins when, in most parts of the United States, we set our clocks an hour ahead, giving up an hour of sleep; while adding an hour of daylight.
Mounds of snow, which now look like dirty black and grey pyramids, will melt more quickly thanks to the abundant sunshine created by a sun that is now higher in the sky. Surroundings will smell better. My garage won't constantly exist in a frozen state.
For a couple of weeks, those folks forced to conduct their running in the early morning hours will suffer, but as each day goes by, daylight hours will be expanded at both ends, from dawn to dusk.
Beginning next weekend, on the glorious holiday itself, and on the following weekend as well, Saint Patrick's Day will be celebrated.
As much as people like to have an excuse to drink, runners like to have a reason for a race, and Saint Patrick's Day appropriately fills both those requirements. Of course, combine a running race AND an reason to drink, and you have a storm of perfection.
And then, like the obnoxious relative who overstays his welcome, winter will depart and spring will arrive at 6:45 p.m. on March 20. It has been a brutal extended winter. Beginning with a snowstorm on November 18 and continuing with our storm of March 4-5, we in Pennsylvania have had snowfalls for 5 consecutive months. Last week, the peaks of some Hawaiian mountains were snow covered.
So, let's spring forward.
Let's close the door on winter misery and open the windows to the bright days of spring and summer that lie ahead.
Enjoy and appreciate the many magnificent training days that lie ahead.
When you do, you will make each day your personal best.
www.muldowneyrunning.com
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Like a boxer in the 15th round of a heavyweight bout, the March chapter of winter roared in this week with an ice/sleet storm on Tuesday, another 4 to 6 inches of snow on Wednesday, followed by single-digit, record low temperatures on Thursday evening.
But tonight, we spring forward.
The trilogy of March begins when, in most parts of the United States, we set our clocks an hour ahead, giving up an hour of sleep; while adding an hour of daylight.
Mounds of snow, which now look like dirty black and grey pyramids, will melt more quickly thanks to the abundant sunshine created by a sun that is now higher in the sky. Surroundings will smell better. My garage won't constantly exist in a frozen state.
For a couple of weeks, those folks forced to conduct their running in the early morning hours will suffer, but as each day goes by, daylight hours will be expanded at both ends, from dawn to dusk.
Beginning next weekend, on the glorious holiday itself, and on the following weekend as well, Saint Patrick's Day will be celebrated.
As much as people like to have an excuse to drink, runners like to have a reason for a race, and Saint Patrick's Day appropriately fills both those requirements. Of course, combine a running race AND an reason to drink, and you have a storm of perfection.
And then, like the obnoxious relative who overstays his welcome, winter will depart and spring will arrive at 6:45 p.m. on March 20. It has been a brutal extended winter. Beginning with a snowstorm on November 18 and continuing with our storm of March 4-5, we in Pennsylvania have had snowfalls for 5 consecutive months. Last week, the peaks of some Hawaiian mountains were snow covered.
So, let's spring forward.
Let's close the door on winter misery and open the windows to the bright days of spring and summer that lie ahead.
Enjoy and appreciate the many magnificent training days that lie ahead.
When you do, you will make each day your personal best.
www.muldowneyrunning.com
Friday, March 6, 2015
HEALTHY KIDS
One thing you'll notice if you run enough races: They're getting older!
At many small, local races, runners in their 40s in 50s often dominate the awards platform.
Also, at some local competitions, the 20-25 and 25-29 age divisions sometimes have NO participants.
Don't get me wrong, I'm proud of us "older" runners, but we need to pass along our love of our sport to the youth.
Couple this with the alarming childhood obesity rate in both America and the world, and it's clear we need a call to action.
Thankfully, in my little corner of the world, concerned runners and coaches, like Doctors Jason and Jennifer Burgess, are promoting the sport of running to our youth in a fun manner. Below are a couple of examples of programs they have become involved with.
As described on the website: http://www.healthykidsrunningseries.org/, The Healthy Kids Running Series was created by Jeff Long, Founder and President of Pattison Sports Group, to provide kids with a positive, educational, and fun experience in the world of running. To combat the increasing rates of child obesity in America, Jeff designed a running program that would motivate kids to be healthy and active and provide a fun environment to improve their self-esteem. Jeff believed the program would encourage kids to adopt a “Get Up and Go” attitude.
At many small, local races, runners in their 40s in 50s often dominate the awards platform.
Also, at some local competitions, the 20-25 and 25-29 age divisions sometimes have NO participants.
Don't get me wrong, I'm proud of us "older" runners, but we need to pass along our love of our sport to the youth.
Couple this with the alarming childhood obesity rate in both America and the world, and it's clear we need a call to action.
Thankfully, in my little corner of the world, concerned runners and coaches, like Doctors Jason and Jennifer Burgess, are promoting the sport of running to our youth in a fun manner. Below are a couple of examples of programs they have become involved with.
As described on the website: http://www.healthykidsrunningseries.org/, The Healthy Kids Running Series was created by Jeff Long, Founder and President of Pattison Sports Group, to provide kids with a positive, educational, and fun experience in the world of running. To combat the increasing rates of child obesity in America, Jeff designed a running program that would motivate kids to be healthy and active and provide a fun environment to improve their self-esteem. Jeff believed the program would encourage kids to adopt a “Get Up and Go” attitude.
The Healthy Kids Running Series is a five week running program in the spring and fall for kids from Pre-K to 8th grade. Each Race Series takes place once a week and offers age appropriate running events including the 50 yard dash, the 1/4 mile, the 1/2 mile and the one mile run. Kids compete each week of the Series for a chance to earn points and at the end of the Series the top boy and girl with the most points in their respective age division receive a trophy. It doesn’t matter how fast or slow you run because all participants receive a medal and gift bag for their achievements courtesy of our sponsors!
Join us as we encourage kids to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle, help increase their self-esteem, and make new friends!
The Miners Track Project is a local USATF club located in Minersville, Pennsylvania, created to develop young athletes from first to eighth grades. You can check it out at: http://www.minerstrack.com/, and Drs. Burgess will be happy to pass along information that will assist you in developing similar programs in your area.
As we "old folks" can attest, this sport is a lifetime endeavor. There is no retirement age. Besides, retirement is something you do from work. Let's pass our love for our sport to the youth, so they can enjoy a healthy life for many years to come.
Thursday, March 5, 2015
WAY TO GO REBEKAH!
Moments ago I published today's blog, with a picture of Rebekah Gregory entering the courtroom in Boston.
Here is what she had to say in the courtroom.
She's a REAL hero!
"IT WAS HIM"
The Code of Hammurabi, written by King Hammurabi of Babylon over 3700 years ago, established the first written set of laws. One of those tenets stated, "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth."
Clearly we have evolved in to a more "civilized," compassionate society, but certain human acts are so heinous, it is hard for most civilized people to wrap their brains around the evil that exists in minds filled with deranged hatred.
After nearly two years, as thousands of runners brave the winter in an effort to train for the 2015 Boston Marathon, the trial of one of the men who perpetrated one of the most cowardly attacks on civilians since the events of September 11, 2001, began on Wednesday with a surprising revelation.
Following is an excerpt from Boston Globe staff writer, Milton Valencia, written on Wednesday.
Clearly we have evolved in to a more "civilized," compassionate society, but certain human acts are so heinous, it is hard for most civilized people to wrap their brains around the evil that exists in minds filled with deranged hatred.
After nearly two years, as thousands of runners brave the winter in an effort to train for the 2015 Boston Marathon, the trial of one of the men who perpetrated one of the most cowardly attacks on civilians since the events of September 11, 2001, began on Wednesday with a surprising revelation.
Following is an excerpt from Boston Globe staff writer, Milton Valencia, written on Wednesday.
'After thousands of pages of legal briefs and nearly two years of hearings, a lawyer for Dzhokhar Tsarnaev stood in federal court Wednesday, the first day of the long-awaited Marathon bombing trial, and made a startling simple declaration: “It was him.”
Yes, she said, it was Tsarnaev who dropped a backpack containing a bomb on the ground, killing a young boy and a graduate student. And it was Tsarnaev who, along with his brother, went on a violent spree that ended in bloodshed in Watertown.
“There’s little that occurred the week of April the 15th . . . that we dispute,” attorney Judy Clarke told jurors.
In just over 20 minutes, Clarke provided a detailed account of Tsarnaev’s role in the horrific attacks, though she ultimately sought to portray the now-21-year-old defendant as a reluctant participant in the bombings, coerced by a dominating older brother who was the mastermind. He was less culpable, she said, and therefore should be spared the death penalty.
Prosecutors gave their own vivid narrative of the bombings, providing new details in the moments leading up to the explosions and their aftermath, including Tsarnaev’s trip to a grocery store 20 minutes later to shop for a gallon of milk
The opening statements were a sweeping — and at times heart-wrenching — attempt at justice on the same day that several survivors recounted frightening ordeals to the jury.
“I started screaming out for somebody to help us,” said Karen Rand McWatters, who lost a leg. She recalled that after the explosion she leaned toward her friend, Krystle Marie Campbell, who softly said that her legs hurt. “Her hand went limp in mine, and she never spoke again after that,” McWatters testified.
“I remember thinking, this is it, I’m going to die, I’m not going to make it,” said Sydney Corcoran, who was 17 when she and her mother were injured in the bombings. “I just felt so cold.”
The long-awaited trial officially began Wednesday after two months of jury selection and nearly two years of legal challenges. Tsarnaev’s lawyers have repeatedly and unsuccessfully sought to have the trial moved outside Boston.
Scores of spectators passed through security at the John Joseph Moakley US Courthouse in South Boston Wednesday to view the proceedings, as did several survivors and family members of the victims.
Those killed in the bombings were Campbell, a 29-year-old from Medford who died from the first blast; Martin Richard, an 8-year-old from Dorchester; and Lingzi Lu, a 23-year-old Boston University graduate student from China. Lu and Richard were killed by the second bomb, the one planted by Tsarnaev.
Assistant US Attorney William Weinreb told jurors that Tsarnaev stood with his backpack outside the Forum restaurant on Boylston Street for nearly four minutes, while several children played in front of him, before he slipped off the bag and walked away.
“He pretended to be a spectator, but he had murder in his heart,” Weinreb said.
He provided graphic details of the victims’ last moments, saying Richard “bled to death on the sidewalk,” Lu had the “inside of her stomach pouring out,” and Campbell was left with “gaping holes” in her body.
He later detailed Tsarnaev’s actions less than a half-hour after the bombing: He was at a Whole Foods store in Cambridge, shopping for milk.
“The defendant pretended nothing had happened,” Weinreb said.'
My wife and I heard the blast as we prepared to eat lunch Legal Seafood in the Lord and Taylor mall on Boylston Street. Terror surrounded us, but we were never in danger. It was one of the worst days of my life, but, for hundreds of innocent spectators, their lives will never be the same thanks to the cold-hearted, calculated actions of these two animals.
I'm sorry, but all of us have free-will. Plotting and creating devices designed to kill and maim innocent human beings, in my estimation calls for the death penalty. This young man knew exactly what he was doing, and showed no remorse after doing it.
Nothing can bring three dead people, one of them a child, back to life. Shattered and amputated limbs, perforated eardrums, burns and scars can never fully be restored, but justice must prevail.
I think a jury in Boston will get it right.
Marathon bombing victim Rebekah Gregory arrived at court
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
IF YOU LIKE IT
There aren't many guarantees in life, but I will guarantee you this. If you like this blog (and it's ok if you don't) you'll love reading my books.
I can also guarantee that if you want to receive some great running advice and tips on training, an electronic version of my latest book, Personal Best, will cost you less than a popular running magazine, without the advertisements!
My first book, Running Shorts: A Collection of Stories and Advice for Anyone Who Has Ever Laced Up a Pair of Running Shoes, published in 2011, is a compilation of my experiences as competitive runner for 39 years, but many of these tales reflect experiences YOU have had during your years as a runner. As one of the Amazon reviewers stated, "It will make you laugh and it will make you cry."
Traveling the country, promoting my first book, prompted me to write, Personal Best, my second book, published in September 2014.
Runners told me what they wanted in a running book, and I tried to respond by writing a book that is instructive to runners of all ages and abilities.
Personal Best took a tragic turn in April 2013, soon after I crossed the finish line at the Boston Marathon. I devoted my first chapter, entitled "Was That Thunder," to the events, and my experiences of that day. I guarantee you, it is worth the read, and it is my fervent hope that I was able to capture the emotions of that fateful day in a manner in which every runner can relate.
If you would like read an electronic version of Personal Best, it is available for only $2.99 at Amazon, Lulu, iBooks, Nook, and Kobo.
You can visit my website: www,muldowneyrunning.com, and I will personally sign and send a book to you. Currently, both books are on sale for $11.99, plus shipping and handling. You can also go to Amazon, Barnes and Noble, to purchase running books that will positively influence your future running efforts.
And, it doesn't end there!
Read the books and stay in touch. email me here, look me up on Facebook at: Joe Muldowney Running, or on Twitter at: rdrunnr00. Tell me about your running, ask me questions, discuss training or injury issues.
I love this sport, and I love runners.
If one word of what you read in this blog or in one of my books makes you a better runner, or makes you feel better about running,then I feel I've paid it forward, and that's as satisfying as winning any race.
amazon.com/author/joemuldowney
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
DESTINATIONS
Back in the "Old days" of road racing, in the late '70's and early '80's, big races were few and far between. Many were "No-frill" events. Race expos and race goodies were non-existent.
Today, both major and small cities offer excellent races, virtually every weekend. Destination races have become quite popular, so, in this blog, I would like to offer my top ten list of "Destination," or "Bucket List" races, based on my experience.
The criteria I have included takes into consideration the race course itself, course beauty, crowd support, community support, amenities, and local charm. I have limited the list to North American destinations, and to distances of 9 miles or above (although most races include 5K events in their race weekends)
So, here goes. My top ten North American destinations every runner should include on their list.
10. The Gasparilla Distance Classic 15K in Tampa, Florida-Celebrating Tampa's pirate-history, this magnificent flat, fast race course is run along the Tampa Bay and features great crown support. Mid-February is a perfect time to get out of the winter cold and participate in this running festival.
9. The Bermuda Marathon and 10K-Back in the 80's I ran this race. The course is hilly, and, even in mid-January it was humid. But if you want to visit a beautiful, elegant island, Bermuda is the place. Pink sand and crystal-clear water. Don't worry about your race time; go to Bermuda to have a good time.
8. Yuengling Shamrock Marathon in Virginia Beach-I confess to a couple of biases here. First, I'm Irish, which means my DNA prevents me from missing a St. Paddy's Day celebration of any kind, and Yuengling Beer, America's Oldest Brewery, is located in my hometown of Pottsville, Pennsylvania. They simply brew good beer. The course is fast, the crowds are enthusiastic, and the post-race tent is about as big as Texas Stadium, with plenty of food and Yuengling beer for race finishers. The party is worth finishing for.
7. Niagara Falls International Marathon-The opportunity to start a marathon in one country and finish in another, as well as seeing one of the true natural wonders of the earth, make this a marathon worth running.
6. Pittsburgh Marathon-Beautiful city, great crowds, challenging course. This is a very nice race.
5. Myrtle Beach Marathon-It's fast, it's scenic, with fabulous views of the Atlantic Ocean. The volunteers are superb. Get this: It was cold at the start of this year's race, so the Grand Strand Running Club of Myrtle Beach provided a drop box at mile four so runners could shed clothing. It was provided for all runners and they could claim their clothing at the GSRC tent near the finish line.
The post-race festivities at the Myrtle Beach Marathon are fantastic.
4. Miami Marathon-Miami in January is a place most of us want to be. An enormous field for one of the most scenic courses I've ever run. Giant cruise ships, water vistas, an urban finish. Miami has it all.
3. Berwick's Run for the Diamonds-A 9-mile race, contested on Thanksgiving Day, since 1908. Nestled in the mountains of central Pennsylvania, the course is brutal, but the tradition is rich. Olympians have participated in this race for over a century. For the people of the small town of Berwick, this race is a Thanksgiving tradition. Packet pick up is held at the Elks Lodge, and Diamonds are awarded to top finishers. You cannot let your running days slip by without running Berwick's Run for the Diamonds.
2. Philadelphia Marathon-A terrific course. The Mayor sticks around for the entire race, high-fiving finishers. The Art Museum, the Rocky statue, Independence Hall, running along the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers, a beer stand for runners near Manayunk. I could go on and on, but this is one fine race. The course is scenic, the crowds are raucous, and the finish, downhill, along the Ben Franklin Parkway, is iconic. Run this race. You'll love it.
1. Sixteen times for me is still not enough. It is, and always will be my favorite race. There is only one Boston Marathon. Run it, not so much for yourself, but to experience the unbelievable crowds. I've had more goose bumps than an entire flock of geese thanks to the Boston crowds. In every town, building up to a crescendo in the city itself, each runner is treated like an Olympic champion. Waitresses/waiters, police, folks on the street regard the marathon runners as rock stars. Sure you have to qualify, but perhaps you can raise money for a charity and gain entry into the race. There are all the others, then there's Boston. It is, in my estimation, the greatest footrace on the planet.
Of course, these races reflect my experiences.
What are yours?
Let me know, on this blog, or on my website: www.muldowneyrunning.com
Tell me about your favorite races.
Today, both major and small cities offer excellent races, virtually every weekend. Destination races have become quite popular, so, in this blog, I would like to offer my top ten list of "Destination," or "Bucket List" races, based on my experience.
The criteria I have included takes into consideration the race course itself, course beauty, crowd support, community support, amenities, and local charm. I have limited the list to North American destinations, and to distances of 9 miles or above (although most races include 5K events in their race weekends)
So, here goes. My top ten North American destinations every runner should include on their list.
10. The Gasparilla Distance Classic 15K in Tampa, Florida-Celebrating Tampa's pirate-history, this magnificent flat, fast race course is run along the Tampa Bay and features great crown support. Mid-February is a perfect time to get out of the winter cold and participate in this running festival.
9. The Bermuda Marathon and 10K-Back in the 80's I ran this race. The course is hilly, and, even in mid-January it was humid. But if you want to visit a beautiful, elegant island, Bermuda is the place. Pink sand and crystal-clear water. Don't worry about your race time; go to Bermuda to have a good time.
8. Yuengling Shamrock Marathon in Virginia Beach-I confess to a couple of biases here. First, I'm Irish, which means my DNA prevents me from missing a St. Paddy's Day celebration of any kind, and Yuengling Beer, America's Oldest Brewery, is located in my hometown of Pottsville, Pennsylvania. They simply brew good beer. The course is fast, the crowds are enthusiastic, and the post-race tent is about as big as Texas Stadium, with plenty of food and Yuengling beer for race finishers. The party is worth finishing for.
7. Niagara Falls International Marathon-The opportunity to start a marathon in one country and finish in another, as well as seeing one of the true natural wonders of the earth, make this a marathon worth running.
6. Pittsburgh Marathon-Beautiful city, great crowds, challenging course. This is a very nice race.
5. Myrtle Beach Marathon-It's fast, it's scenic, with fabulous views of the Atlantic Ocean. The volunteers are superb. Get this: It was cold at the start of this year's race, so the Grand Strand Running Club of Myrtle Beach provided a drop box at mile four so runners could shed clothing. It was provided for all runners and they could claim their clothing at the GSRC tent near the finish line.
The post-race festivities at the Myrtle Beach Marathon are fantastic.
4. Miami Marathon-Miami in January is a place most of us want to be. An enormous field for one of the most scenic courses I've ever run. Giant cruise ships, water vistas, an urban finish. Miami has it all.
3. Berwick's Run for the Diamonds-A 9-mile race, contested on Thanksgiving Day, since 1908. Nestled in the mountains of central Pennsylvania, the course is brutal, but the tradition is rich. Olympians have participated in this race for over a century. For the people of the small town of Berwick, this race is a Thanksgiving tradition. Packet pick up is held at the Elks Lodge, and Diamonds are awarded to top finishers. You cannot let your running days slip by without running Berwick's Run for the Diamonds.
2. Philadelphia Marathon-A terrific course. The Mayor sticks around for the entire race, high-fiving finishers. The Art Museum, the Rocky statue, Independence Hall, running along the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers, a beer stand for runners near Manayunk. I could go on and on, but this is one fine race. The course is scenic, the crowds are raucous, and the finish, downhill, along the Ben Franklin Parkway, is iconic. Run this race. You'll love it.
1. Sixteen times for me is still not enough. It is, and always will be my favorite race. There is only one Boston Marathon. Run it, not so much for yourself, but to experience the unbelievable crowds. I've had more goose bumps than an entire flock of geese thanks to the Boston crowds. In every town, building up to a crescendo in the city itself, each runner is treated like an Olympic champion. Waitresses/waiters, police, folks on the street regard the marathon runners as rock stars. Sure you have to qualify, but perhaps you can raise money for a charity and gain entry into the race. There are all the others, then there's Boston. It is, in my estimation, the greatest footrace on the planet.
Of course, these races reflect my experiences.
What are yours?
Let me know, on this blog, or on my website: www.muldowneyrunning.com
Tell me about your favorite races.
Sunday, March 1, 2015
DEAR DIARY
In previous blogs and in motivational speeches I deliver at marathon race expos around the country I preach about the importance of keeping a daily running log.
A running log is your personal running diary. One's daily entries may be brief, or may read like a Russian novel. No matter, by looking back through one's running log, a runner may get a complete picture of his or her running regimen. A complete running log can let you know what works for you and what doesn't. Your running log can tell you where your running has been and where it's going.
If you examine my running log since November 26, 2014, it appears as though I have been in Buffalo, New York, or International Falls, Minnesota.
You see, since I kept my first logbook in 1976, I have always included weather conditions in my daily running diary.
That way, when I wonder why a race time was particularly slow, the 90-degree heat may have been a factor.
When a workout seems as though I turned a calendar page before I completed it, snow-covered roads may have played a part in my snail-like pace.
Here's a sample of some of my "Greatest Meteorological Hits," as recorded in my running log, from the past five months.
Wednesday, November 26-4 inches-snow, slush
Friday, November 28-20 degrees, windy, cold
Wednesday, December 10-Snowing
Thursday, December 11-8 inches-snow
Rain and moderate temperatures teased us for the remainder of the month, and on December 28, I logged an 8-miler on my favorite wooded trail.
Saturday, January 3-Snow, sleet, slippery
Tuesday, January 6-2 inches-snow
Wednesday, January 7-Wind chill-1 degree
For nine days I escaped to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, only to return to:
Wednesday, January 21-4 inches-snow
Saturday, January 24-5 inches-snow
Monday, January 26-Windy-3 inches-snow
Monday, February 2-2 inches-snow, slush
Thursday, February 5-Wind chill 5 degrees
Back to Myrtle Beach for a week, then:
Friday, February 20-Wind chill-2 degrees
Monday, February 23-Wind chill-0 degrees
Saturday, February 28-13 degrees
And as we entered March:
Sunday, March 1-4 inches-snow
Most runners, in many areas of the United States, feel like one of Mike Tyson's opponents, during the days when he was a boxing champion. We are beat up from five months of a Polar something or other.
I promise to stop whining, but, "Dear Diary, please make this end soon!"
A running log is your personal running diary. One's daily entries may be brief, or may read like a Russian novel. No matter, by looking back through one's running log, a runner may get a complete picture of his or her running regimen. A complete running log can let you know what works for you and what doesn't. Your running log can tell you where your running has been and where it's going.
If you examine my running log since November 26, 2014, it appears as though I have been in Buffalo, New York, or International Falls, Minnesota.
You see, since I kept my first logbook in 1976, I have always included weather conditions in my daily running diary.
That way, when I wonder why a race time was particularly slow, the 90-degree heat may have been a factor.
When a workout seems as though I turned a calendar page before I completed it, snow-covered roads may have played a part in my snail-like pace.
Here's a sample of some of my "Greatest Meteorological Hits," as recorded in my running log, from the past five months.
Wednesday, November 26-4 inches-snow, slush
Friday, November 28-20 degrees, windy, cold
Wednesday, December 10-Snowing
Thursday, December 11-8 inches-snow
Rain and moderate temperatures teased us for the remainder of the month, and on December 28, I logged an 8-miler on my favorite wooded trail.
Saturday, January 3-Snow, sleet, slippery
Tuesday, January 6-2 inches-snow
Wednesday, January 7-Wind chill-1 degree
For nine days I escaped to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, only to return to:
Wednesday, January 21-4 inches-snow
Saturday, January 24-5 inches-snow
Monday, January 26-Windy-3 inches-snow
Monday, February 2-2 inches-snow, slush
Thursday, February 5-Wind chill 5 degrees
Back to Myrtle Beach for a week, then:
Friday, February 20-Wind chill-2 degrees
Monday, February 23-Wind chill-0 degrees
Saturday, February 28-13 degrees
And as we entered March:
Sunday, March 1-4 inches-snow
Most runners, in many areas of the United States, feel like one of Mike Tyson's opponents, during the days when he was a boxing champion. We are beat up from five months of a Polar something or other.
I promise to stop whining, but, "Dear Diary, please make this end soon!"
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