Mkymsehi Running Nut's (We Crazy!!!)

Goofy 2012 in the books

2012-01-12T22:24:00.001-08:00

Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge 2012 in the books. Marathon #14, complete with second year in a row ride on Expedition Everest Roller Coaster. First ride of the day with friends Marcia, Kelly, and Richard.

BEST FINISH EVER with Julie, Marcia, and Kelly!!! With Margarita's in hand.

Honolulu Marathon 2011

2012-01-12T22:16:00.000-08:00

#7 Honolulu in the books. 13th marathon overall.

Had a great time hosting friends from New York, Massachussetts, and Tennessee for the two weeks before and after the race.

Exciting finish, helping a runner get to the finish line.

If you are considering ordering a RoadID, use this to my affiliate link.

2011-05-25T21:07:00.000-07:00

http://www.roadid.com/Common/default.aspx?referrer=2995

Marcia's blog

2011-05-19T00:27:00.001-07:00

(http://marathonmushu.wordpress.com/2011/04/06/mushus-new-blog/)

Nashville 2011 Country Music Marathon (Rock N Roll)

2011-05-19T00:18:00.001-07:00

Hills and heat, enough said. 5:30, 4th state done.

Wow, a new Disney race for men only!!!

2011-04-21T22:21:00.001-07:00

fun-runDisney is proud to announce it's newest all male running event...The Inaugural Tigger's Testosterone Ten Miler run through beautiful Animal Kingdom on April 1, 2012.

Each aid station will be stocked with BBQ ribs & wings, ice cold beer, giant screens with the NBA playoff games live. Serving up all these treats will be Hooters Girls and Playboy Playmates of the Year.

All contestants will receive an 80 inch High Definition television, complete with turbo remote control, and Dolby Sound Entertainment System. Really, who needs a medal?

And last but not least, you will receive a $1,000 gift card for your favorite massage parlor, so you can enjoy some "me time" after the race.

So get out your jock straps, lace up your shoes, and 'LET'S GET READY TO RRRRRUUUUUUUUMMMMMMBBBBBBBLLLLLLLLEEEEEEE!"

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And if you spend $150 in our man cave boutique, you earn a fastpass sticker for your bib to use any of the clean women's bathroom stalls along the race course. No more standing in long, long, LONG lines.

Goofy 2011 in the books

2011-01-18T21:56:00.000-08:00

Technically I Dopey'd this year. 5K on Friday, half marathon on Saturday, and full marathon on Sunday. 42.4 miles over three days.

Weather was perfect for running. Two layers on top, a pair of gloves, and a cap. Nothing like last year's temps in the 20's, and no snow. It was more like 45 at the start, and high 60's at the finish.

The 5K was run for a friend who didn't make the trip down from Canada. Thanks for the extra miles Tacey.

The half was a blast pacing my buddy Mike aka The Big Kahuna to a 2:05. He wanted a easy 2:20, but ran much stronger, so we beat our goal.

The full was a bit rough, having tore a muscle near my knee about mile 8. A couple of Tylenol, got me through mile 17. Another single Tylenol kept me moving, at a much slower pace.

At mile 19, I took a Yuengling beer break, courtesy of my chEARleader Colleen. Two marathons (Marine Corps and Disney), she's been there for me with liquid happiness.

I need to add, at this point I fell behind Marcia and Paul, who had snuck past me while I was riding Expedition Everest Rollercoaster in Animal Kingdom. Yes, you read that right. With friends Howard and Charlie from the WISH team, we boarded the first train of the day, and got in an E-ticket ride while on the clock. Really, where else can you ride during a marathon?

At the out and back near Wide World of Sports, I spot Marcia and Paul. They've got about 10 minutes on me. They made me work for it, as I didn't catch them until mile 24 at Boardwalk. We ran in together, and finished in 5:15.

Fun times as always at the World.

Oh yeah, this was my third marathon in 71 days, qualifying me for the lowest level of Marathon Maniacs. Overall, it was my eleventh marathon.

2011-01-18T21:45:00.001-08:00

My friend Leana posted a comment on her blogspot, on how bad traffic was during the Disney World Half Marathon on Saturday. This is my reply to her post:

Leana, I hear you!

We also drive from Old Key West or POP, and normally it's 10 minutes from parking lot to EPCOT parking lot.

We've timed it the last 2 years, where we drop our bag, and walk to the corral, and get there just as the Nation Anthem is being sung. Fireworks, GO!

NOT THIS YEAR. We left OKW at 4:05 am. By 4:30, we hadn't made it to Boardwalk. So we U-turned, drove back to OKW and parked.

We walked 2 1/2 blocks, straight to the A corral, roughly 20 minutes before anyone reached the corrals from the bag drop area. Some friends reported it took 40 minutes to walk from the bag drop to their corral.

Disney really screwed up the parking this year. People were still stuck on transportation buses when I was running and nearing mile 1. I could see them looking out the windows, and not able to get off the bus.

On Sunday, instead of attempting to drive, we slept in longer, and just walked across to the corrals again, long before the crowds were released from the bag drop area.

For the number of years Disney has been doing races, each time they are getting worse and worse at it.

Even post race, the parking lot was a zoo to get out of, and buses were long waits for the back of the packers to get back to their hotels.

Aloha,
Jeff

Honolulu Marathon 2010

2010-12-17T16:43:00.001-08:00

#10 in the books. Went to Washington D.C. on Halloween, and followed it up with Honolulu 42 days later.

Warmer than normal conditions all week, so going to the start line we knew it was going to be hot once the sun came out. There was no breeze until roughly mile 15, and it didn't last very long.

Fireworks to start the race, and cruised through the front end of the course drenched in sweat. Saw my family at mile 10.5, and got a boost of support.

All the way to the halfway point was smooth. I made it through mile 17 with no issues, and then fatigue started to set in. I wasn't paying close attention to the Garmin or race clocks.

Between 20-22 the legs felt tired, but no cramping issues like in years past. Saw my family again at mile 22, and had a quick pit stop for a banana, and Gatorade.

Plugged along between Kahala Ave. and Diamond Head. At the top, the Hasher's were handing out beer, and was that a treat. Just on the downhill of Diamond Head, that's where the cramping kicked in. Despite all the Enduralites I took, it wasn't enough to keep the muscles from seizing. I wogged it in, and finished with a 4:31.

The celebration started right after the race with friends, and lasted for the rest of the week. Good times.

Marine Corps Marathon report (10/31/10)

2010-11-09T23:44:00.000-08:00

This is a must do marathon if you ever want to see the nation's Capital by foot. You apply when lottery registration opens, and then wait to see if your name is selected. If not, you can always find a bib for sale closer to the race (Sept/Oct), and pay for the bib and transfer fee. I got in via the latter method.

The expo is very large and has many vendors we don't see here at the Honolulu expo. It's a shopper's paradise, so bring lots of cash or credit cards.

The race begins at 8 am. The start line is just outside the Arlington National Cemetery, winds through parts of Virginia, then crosses into Washington D.C. in Georgetown. You tour the mall from the Lincoln Memorial, past the Washington Memorial, up to Capital Hill, and back down past Smithsonian's Museums. Note, there are hills at mile 3 and 8. During the stretch on the Potomac River, President Obama buzzed the race course in Marine One helicopter.

There is a 4 hour pace requirement to beat the bridge at mile 20, otherwise you get swept by the sag wagon bus. Once I made it across the bridge friends were at the end of the bridge, with a full beer, soda, food station. I stopped for my elusive red cup (ahem Alvaro), and talked story, and took pictures for at least 10 minutes. From there you do an out and back through Crystal City, Virginia, then go past the Pentagon.

The race finishes at the Iwo Jima War Memorial. Beware, the last few hundred yards are uphill, about a 80 foot climb. From there it flattens out, and your 50 yards to the finish line. The spectators and Marines form a gauntlet at the end, and it's super loud from all the cheering.

The course is supported entirely by Marines. Lots of aid stations, including water, Poweraide, an orange station, Cliff Shot station, and a Jelly Belly Sports Bean station. After the race, you are handed a Poweraide, bottle of water, and a baggie with pretzels, banana, bagel, Cliff bar, and Jelly Belly Sports Beans. Medals were beautiful, gold with a red lanyard, and the image of the Iwo Jima Memorial.

Oh, and the race temperatures were 50 degrees, with a slight wind near the stretches of water. I recommend you stay in Rosslyn or Arlington area, and walk to and from the start/finish area. Following the race, the Rosslyn streets are turned into the finish festival.

The Metro trains are the easiest way to get around the area, and we made use of a weekly pass that got us everywhere.

This was my last long run before Honolulu Marathon in December. I finished in a easy 4:50, having paced a friend through 14 miles before losing him in the crowd.

http://www.marinemarathon.com

Aloha,

Jeff

.

Goofy 2010 in the books

2010-01-17T10:48:00.000-08:00

We headed out to Florida on Christmas day. Had a great stay of 8 days at Walt Disney World, and then headed for a 4 night Bahamian Cruise on the Disney Wonder. Fabulous cruise, that I highly recommend to everyone.

I did put in miles onboard the ship around the deck and on a treadmill. We even ran on Castaway Cay.

We returned to WDW on Thursday, and headed straight to the Expo for packet pick up.

Goofy is 39.3 miles over two days. This was a race for the ages. 28 degree temps for both the half marathon and full marathon. Sleet on Saturday, black ice and frozen water and Poweraid both days.

I layered both days, and ended up shedding some t-shirts and sweatshirts along the way. Staying warm, but not overheating was a bit of a challenge. Fortunately I did pack the right gear for the weekend.

Without boring you all with my race details, I'll just share that I finished 2:01 and change for the half marathon, and 4:41 for the full marathon. Oh, and for fun I through in a 5K on Friday before, and Monday after. Three days we affectionately call the Dopey, and four days we call the Dumbo.

The best part of the trip was spending quality time with my family, and friends Marcia and her mom Kim. Additionally, spending time with my WISH, ROTE, and Disney Deads running groups were filled with lots of smiles and laughter. That's what always stands out when I reflect on a WDW race week.

See you all out on the roads and at the waterstops.

Honolulu Marathon Race Report (12/13/09)

2009-12-15T11:04:00.001-08:00

It was a busy week, heading to the expo on Wednesday for packet pickup with Chester and Tracy (WISH teammates). Friday was sightseeing, and then the carb load party held a our Marathon Clinic doc's house.

I returned to the Expo on Saturday to meet up with a pair of ROTE members (Annie, and Barry). Sadly, Sandra wasn't able to meet with us. I had a chance to chat up the Disney Reps at their booth.

Saturday after the expo, we hustled over to Chuckie Cheese's for our younger daughter's early birthday party. Then to Kapiolani park to drop off my bag with my phone, camera, cash, and Crocs for after the race. Stopped off at the grocery store to pick up bagels, peanut butter, and bananas. Finally arriving home in the afternoon, I set up my gear for the morning.

I carb loaded on lasagne for dinner, and went to bed early around 6:30 pm. I woke up at 2 am, and visualized the race course. Dressed and headed downstairs for breakfast. Woke my wife up, and we headed out the door at 3 am.

Since the roads along the course are closed off as early as 12:30 am for the volunteers to set up aid stations, I was dropped off near a friend's house. We met up, and three of us walked about 1 mile towards the start line. We found the local mall had left the restrooms open, and we stopped since there were no lines, and it's way cleaner than a Port-a-Potty. We soon split up, as they were headed to meet their intermediate group in one location, while the advance group was meeting in Ala Moana Beach park.

I got there early just before 4 am, and watched as bus after bus drove through the park. They pick up participants near the finish line and drop them off 3 miles away at the start line.

When everyone showed up, we had one last bathroom break then walked to the start line. Coming from the opposite direction, we moved right into the front of the mass of nearly 24,000 people. Just the elites were ahead of us.

15 minutes passed, then Star Spangled Banner. The wheelchair racers were given a 5 minute head start. Then the fireworks were lit sending us on our way. Set the Garmin to start as my foot hit the timing mat. With the massive surge and having to watch people zig-zagging their way around walkers and slower runners, there was no time for me to look up and watch the pyrotechnics.

Quickly our group found our 8:45 average pace. It was cool and dry, considering the last several years conditions. We headed towards downtown Honolulu, and then turned to King Street, which is fully decorated in Christmas colors.

Everyone in our group stuck together, and we were settled in. Steps were going easy, and breathing was nice and easy. Our pace fluctuated between 8:30-9:00 minute miles, depending on our walking through water stops.

Waterstops 1 & 2 came, and then we were headed through the heart of Waikiki. The crowds were bigger here, as many family members traveling with racers came down from their hotels to spectate. Water stop 3 came up, and soon we were passing the 10K mark at 56:31, where the race day walkers would end their day.

Mile seven we pit stopped for a brief bathroom break. No more than 15 seconds. Now onto our first traverse of Diamond Head Crater. The two lane road narrows, as the high school volunteers hold up a long roll of plastic tape to separate us from the other lane. As we were up and over the hill, the first wheelchair racer was in his last 1 3/4 miles to the finish. He was flying!!! Everyone screamed and clapped as he went sailing by.

Waterstop #5, and it was still dark out as we went for our second climb around the backside of Diamond Head at mile 9.

Waterstop #6 at mile 10 3/4, and there on the side was my family cheering at their usual spot. Without missing a stride, I grabbed a banana from them, and split it with my running mates.

We made the turn onto the Kalanianaole Highway and it was just starting to get light out. We commented, get through the loop before the sun comes up.
Along mile 11, the elite men were already heading back in at mile 21. Their first half marathon were all sub 5 minute miles. The men's leader, Kenya's Patrick Ivuti (defending champion), had at least a 1/4 mile lead over second place. The woman's leader, Russia's Svetlana Zakharova was well out in front of Japan's Kiyoko Shimahara (defending champion). We all cheered and clapped as they made their way past us.

Miles 12 & 13 were smooth, and our half marathon time was 1:58:43. The crowd ahead of us was thin, so no more dodging people in front of us.

Got through the next two waterstops, and was doing fine. At mile 15 you turn off the highway to the turnaround of Hawaii Kai loop. It's 2 miles around, with lots of spectators. You exit back to the highway, and then see the mass of people who are behind you. It's a never ending wall of humanity, and you think, they've got a long way to go!

I get through mile 18, my 30K time is 2:48:11.

I pass mile 19. Right about mile 20, I see Chester in his WISH shirt coming the other way, he's around mile 14. I veer to the right, yell "GO Chester!!!" and we exchange high fives. I yell "Go get 'em Marathon Maniac!"

By now the sun has started to peak, and the heat is building on my back, as well as the pavement. Just so you know, there is not very much shade on the highway. Just then, I feel a twinge in my right calf. I try breathing through it. I get to the next waterstop, and take a combination of Enduralytes (salt tablets), and a mustard pack. It seems to help briefly. I continue down the road, and out of nowhere, the calf seizes. I check behind me, and find it clear for me to move to the curb to stretch. As I'm doing this, I yell to my training partner to go without me. Simultaneously, my big toe decides to join in on the fun and cramp as well.

After a minute, the cramp eases, and I go on my way again. But good things always happen in pairs, right? A little further down the road, I cramp a second time. Stop, stretch, run. This time I ease my pace, and just focus on moving forward. I make it to mile 21, then 22.

At mile 22 you reach the large spectator area at the gas station landmark. On approach you hear the live rock band jamming, and I know my family is right around the corner. I make the turn, spot them, and signal that I want a granola bar. I again grab without missing a stride, and keep on trucking. Another waterstop, but this time just a sip, as I've absorbed all that I can already.

I get to the turn to Kahala Avenue, and see lots of people walking. I start picking out targets, and one by one pick them off and pass them. Kahala Ave is a 2 mile stretch through 23 & 24. The last 3/4 of a mile is uphill. I loose focus, and have to take a brief walking break. I then power up the hill to triangle park and the last water stop.

On the way back over Diamond Head, I spot a group with a keg of beer at mile 24 1/4. In tradition of the Deads I grabbed a cold one, and yelled "Mahalo" to the guys serving. It was in a RED cup, and went down rather smoothly.

I plod along to the 40K mark at the top of Diamond Head, and my time is 3:54:56. All that is left is a mile downhill, then a flat stretch to the end.

I love that gravity just carries me downhill, and my pace really picked up. But when I get to the bottom of the hill, I have to slow my pace again. One final turn to the last section of the race at Kapiolani park.

I manage my best pace, when a girl next to me says, "Come on, we've got this." She takes the lead, and I try to maintain her strong finish. As we enter the last 300 yards of the chute, friends are yelling out my name. I manage a smile and a shaka, and keep on going.

I approach the finishers mat, step on it, and say to myself..."that was my easiest marathon ever." I finish with a 4:08:47. Just over my goal of a 3:59 finish.

I'm completely happy with the results, considering I shaved 37 minutes off of my personal record at January's WDW marathon (the Dopey Challenge).

I collect my finisher's shell lei, and find my friends waiting for me near the exit area. We all congratulate each other, and then head off to get our medals (key chain) and our finisher's shirt. We then make it over to our clinic's tent for food, drinks, massages ($10), and lots of laughs and stories.

Chester made his way in, refueled, and headed back out to accompany Tracy back in. He found her between mile 20 & 21. All in all, Chester did at least 39 miles, considering the walk from their hotel to the start line. Wow, that's Goofy in a day!!! Congratulations on your Marathon Maniac status, and to Tracy in earning her first marathon! Also a shout out to Sandra for gaining her Marathon Manic status as well !

I got home, ice bathed, showered, lunch. Lounged, had dinner, and I finally fell asleep 18 1/2 hours after the day began.

I'm recovering well with just a little soreness in the calf and the quads. No problems going up or down the stairs. Nothing a little stretching, massage chair, and stationary bike can't relieve.

I'll be back training on Tuesday and Thursday. Next Sunday there will be a short recovery run, followed by a group picnic and bragathon.

Here's to a new year of training in 2010, and getting that sub-4 time next year at Honolulu. Now bring on Dopey in a month!

I know it was a long narrative to sit and read though. I hope you enjoyed the ride.

2010 Honolulu Turkey Trot 10 miler

2009-11-26T15:17:00.000-08:00

Honolulu Turkey Trot 10 miler.

I predicted my time at 1:27:30. My finishing time was 1:27:38. 8 seconds over placed me 19th overall in time predictions, out of nearly 1,000 participants. My training partner was 4 seconds under his prediction of 1:27:27, or 1:27:23. He was 12th overall. Prize for both of us, a Zippy's pumpkin pie. One of our clinic members was 1 second over his predicted time, earning him first place, and two inter-island round trip airline tickets.

I forgot to mention, no watches, Garmins, or Ipods are allowed on the course. The finisher's clock points away from you at the finish, so you can not see until you run through the finish line.

11/15/09

2009-11-15T20:18:00.000-08:00

16 1/4 miles banked today with my marathon training group. We slowed our pace due to 20-25 mph headwinds going out. Overcast kept us cool.

Legs, back, feet all were feeling good once I was done. Good sign that I didn't overdo it.

Next up the Turkey Trott 10 miler on Thanksgiving morning. The girls will be volunteering at the mile 3 and mile 8 water stop.

Gearing up for Honolulu Marathon

2009-11-09T23:42:00.000-08:00

20.5 miles banked this past Sunday. I'll be glad to be racing at 5 am, when the sun is not up. Training in the sun between 8 and 11:30 am takes much more effort than when temps are cooler.

About a month to go, marathon #7.

Aloha Tootsie, thanks for a lifetime of happiness and fun.

2009-10-31T19:08:00.000-07:00

Meet us at the Rainbow Bridge... Our 15 year old terrier Tootsie lost her battle with cancer today. Not a dry eye in the house. She was a rascal dog in her prime, always into trouble. Not so much these past two years, but there were a lot of fun memories.

1st Annual Halloween Triathlon, Waikiki, Hawaii

2009-10-31T19:04:00.000-07:00

400 meter open ocean swim 9 minute (estimate). 2 minute transition. 7 mile bike ride 28 minutes. 1 minute transition, 2.8 mile run, 18 minutes. Total time 58.50, for a 9th place overall finish.

Great conditions, great shirt, and great time. Now for the funniest part. 16 people competed. I'll take the top 10 finish any day!!! LOL.

Jeff's 2009 Disneyland Half Marathon

2009-10-03T12:56:00.000-07:00

I arrived on Thursday, and commenced with meeting up with fellow runners and walkers who were invading Disneyland. Dinner in Downtown Disney with John and Janie, and then grocery shopping for the room snacks.

Friday I had airport pickups for Marcia (Mushu), Michelle (Miabanda), and Karen (our friend who races without ever training). We headed to the expo in the afternoon, and was greeted by friends from all around the country, Jason, Mary Jo, AnnMarie, Gina, Jay, Paul (the rest of you all know who you are, way too many names to mention here). Every time we meet it’s a family reunion, seeming like it was just the other day since we last saw each other. Good times.

Following the expo, several of us went to the Hideaway bar to “carb-load.” At the Friday night WISH meet, we had about 30 people show up to talk story, and take group photos. Saturday I attended a dinner with a few friends, and really enjoyed the camaraderie. The Saturday WISH meet’s turn out was smaller, since people were either dining or going to bed early.

We woke up at 4:25 am, dressed, and headed out the door. Weather was much cooler than in the days leading up to race day. It was a good sign.

We arrived at the family reunion area, and saw some of the gang at the tent, but others had long departed for the corrals. After some photos, and wishing everyone a good race, we headed to corral A. Goofy drove up the red Monorail, and counted down the race. Mickey & Minnie were at the start line cheering on everyone. When the flames started the race, we were off and, well you know, “RUNNING” !

Jay Yanek turned out to be the rabbit of the group, and Jason Stevens and I lost him within seconds. Jason and I ran with the intent of sub two hour, but while having fun and taking pictures. Somewhere in our midst was Paul (Pacdomer), as I saw smoke rising off the pavement ahead of me.

We kept a good pace, but I had to yell several times to the spectators on the roadway, “We can’t hear you” or “Make some noise.” That got the crowd going, and pumped up the runners that surrounded us. Several friends and their family members yelled our names and took pictures, always a boost.

We entered Disneyland, and pit stopped for a few photos. An ample amount of characters and floats were out. Missing was the run down Main Street. A few narrow spots made the pace slow, but it was to be expected. Soon we were backstage on the new route, seeing new parts of the maintenance areas, including the garbage dump and horse stables. Reminicent of the sewage treatment plant in Orlando.

Exiting to the streets of Anaheim found us running amongst the high school and college pep bands, cheerleaders, Hula dancers, Mexican musicians and dancers, and more. The sun decided to sleep in a bit longer than in years past. There was a morning layer of ocean “mist” and a hint of breeze.

My funniest sight was a guy passing me around mile 8. SHOELESS! SHIRTLESS! Just the slap, slap, slap of skin on the asphalt. I yelled out “that’s one way to save money on socks and shoes.” Everyone within earshot had a good laugh. Asides from him, there were several people decked out in Disney character costumes.

Arriving at Angels stadium, the parking lot was a ghost town. I didn’t give it much thought, but as we neared the right field tunnel, you could hear the roar. Exiting the tunnel, you could now feel the roar as the lower stadium was filled with cheering Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. A great pick me up, except all the high fives were missing. Thumbs ups were substituted. Rounding the warning track, we spotted ourselves on the big screen.

Leaving the parking lot was mile 10, so Jason barked out to pick up the pace, and try to keep up. We started passing people, and were soon back in California Adventure, and had the Paradise Pier and Disneyland Hotels within our view. It was a little strange not running the gauntlet through Downtown Disney. This meant less spectators along that last half mile or so of the course.

I had to dig deep, as I was experiencing a major cramp in the toes of my right foot. Well, I focused and just pressed forward. Hearing the roar of the crowd is always fun. Even better when friends are shouting out one’s name as we trek by. Having Jason steps ahead of me barking orders to hurry up was pretty funny. If you ever want to PR, run with someone faster than you.

Before I knew it, we were crossing the finish line and the Fab 5 were cheering. High fives with Jason, and a new PR of 1:57:20. Collected our DL half medal, and then on to the Coast to Coast medal.

After downing a quick Poweraid, we walked back out to Harbor Blvd. to scream team the others still out on the course. We jumped back in when we saw our friends who were feeling the heat, and the pain of 12 miles. So we jogged and walked several people up to the finisher’s chute. I then would double back around the bend to spot the next person or group coming, and would keep their minds occupied with encouragement.

After several repeat trips, no others were coming my way, so back to the family reunion to meet up with the teams. Many hugs, congratulations, and photos. Everyone sans one, collected their bling.

Much more to tell you, but it’s really just about all the fun we had running into one another at the parks, riding rides, dining together, beverage consumption, and wishing everyone safe travels home.

I returned home Tuesday evening, and now reality has set back in. Waiting for January to roll around to do it all over again. See you all then WISHers, ROTEars, and Disney Deads.

Ahui hou,
Jeff Da Runner

Sorry, been slacking over here.

2009-08-16T23:46:00.000-07:00

16 miles this month on Sunday's with the marathon clinic. It's been hot out there, requiring slowing down the pace, and hydrating with water and Gatorade. I'm also experimenting with salt tablets or enduralytes.

School is back in session, and our Girl Scouts started up again. Busy to say the least.

Will be heading to the Disneyland half marathon in a few weeks. Should be fun getting together with all my WISH and ROTE racing buddies. Looking forward to it!

Tinman Triathlon success

2009-07-31T14:10:00.000-07:00

Well, it was a blast, and I'm looking for another one to do!

0:19 minutes in the rolling seas, 750-800 meters of up and down swimming.
1:37 on the bike for 24 miles.
1:09 for the 10K run.

Total time with transitions was 3:13.

Tinman Triathlon 7/26/09

2009-07-22T17:18:00.000-07:00

Hey, it's been a while since I posted. I'm all geared up and ready to go for Sunday's Honolulu Tinman Triathlon. Bib #488.

Swimming has been good, biking too. But the 10K worries me! LOL, just kidding.

My goal is to finish in 3 hours. Should be under, but that's the number in my mind. Four months of training, and I'm probably in the best physical shape in my life.

Another guy I run with at the Honolulu Marathon Clinic is also participating. He just started training a week ago, so it should be interesting to see how he does.

Will post a report when I'm done.

Aloha, and mahalo for reading.

http://tinmanhawaii.com/triathlon/index.php

2009-07-03T22:36:00.000-07:00

Since Caseydilla just found this blogspot, I better update it!

Thursday's run:

8 1/4 miles in 1:12, plus the 1,000 meter swim.

At the start of my run, it began with me intervening in a domestic dispute on the corner. Some idiot choking his girlfriend right on the corner. I yelled at him to stop, then he came at me swearing up a storm. In the meantime the girl ran the other direction. No cops around when you need them. Good deed for the day.

Well, the adrenaline had me pumping the first 4 miles.

Happy 4th of July everyone. Oh, and the circuit court judge issued an injunction against the governor's plan to furlough state workers. Rats, I was looking forward to having Friday's off.

Friday's training:

Uneventful brick workout today.

27 miles on the bike, 2:00:54.

2 miles running afterwards, cruising 19:44.

CC's Meadow Gold Kid's Triathlon

2009-06-15T22:35:00.000-07:00

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=31637103&highlight=princessjavascript:void(0)+%231+triathlon#post31637103

Cut and paste into your browser.

Not running news...

2009-06-15T22:24:00.000-07:00

We adopted a new kitten. He's a siamese, and we named him Simba. Cute little bugger, even though we weren't in the market for a new pet.

He was rescued off a farm by a neighbor, who promptly called the girls grandmother. She in turn, knocked on our door and said "Here, I got you a kitten."

I scored on some Garmin 405 accessories.

2009-06-02T16:23:00.000-07:00

I checked on Craigslist, and ran across an add for a Garmin 405 charger, antenna USBus stick, and heartrate monitor & strap. $20.

The guy worked just down the street from my office. He said he lost his 405 during a recent move, and no longer needed the accessories.

What a steal! LOL.

Unwanted news 6/1/09

2009-06-01T22:58:00.000-07:00

The Governor for the State of Hawaii has announced mandatory 3 days each month furloughs. This will last for at least 2 fiscal years. This is the sign of our economy. Pay cuts, yuck.

Oh well, on the bright side, I'll have more time to swim, bike, and run.

Training continues

2009-05-27T01:16:00.001-07:00

Running my 8 1/4 miles on Tuesday and Thursday. Alternating swimming and biking on these days in preparation for July's Tinman Triathlon.

It's been hot here in Honolulu! Vog, variable winds, and heat index make the training almost unbearable. But I get it done due to the drill instructor Les pushing me to run like the wind. Only I'm out of wind when I get done, LOL.

Heat hits Honolulu

2009-05-11T22:58:00.000-07:00

May 11, 2009

Well, it's gonna be a hot one again. Tradewinds will be dying out again. VOG will be returning.

I will be running and biking in the heat, and will likely be miserable and dripping wet.

Ugggh, summer is here.

May 3rd update

2009-05-03T23:23:00.000-07:00

The heat is ON!

High temps and VOG (volcanic gas) made today's run miserable. On top of a lingering cold, breathing does not come easy on hot voggy days.

Got it done, 8 miles, so that's all that matters.

I've been triathlon training as well. Swimming 1,000 meters, 12-14 mile bike rides, and runs of 1-5 miles after the first two parts.

I'm getting ready for the Tinman Triathlon in July.

Following in my first daughter's footsteps. She competed in her second Meadow Gold Kid's Triathlon on Saturday. She made us proud!

Here's a link to my WISH posting, where you can see the pictures.

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1971413&page=66

Training alone for a while...

2009-04-16T13:27:00.000-07:00

My training buddy, Guru Les, is on the injured reserve list. Back problems that may require surgery.

So, for the time being, I'll be out on the roads by myself. Need to keep the pace up, as if I'm still chasing Les.

Hey there, I'm back

2009-04-15T13:27:00.000-07:00

I took some time off to attend Wednesday's practice round and Par 3 contest at The Masters, hosted by the Augusta National Golf Club.

Had a great time with two golfing buddies along for the ride. The course was simply spectacular. The food and beer was cheap. And the memories will last a lifetime.

If you ever get the opportunity to go see the tournament, even if just for a practice round, do it! You will not regret it.

I did take 9 days off from running, which let my body rest. There was a sore IT band, that may have had a micro-tear. Seems to have healed some during the brief layoff.

Made it out for 8 1/4 miles, at 1:17:02. A few minutes off of my regular time, but not much.

LOST discussion thread

2009-03-06T11:01:00.000-08:00

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1820382

This is my thread discussing LOST, and also photos of actual Honolulu film locations shown in the show.

3/7/09 Circle Island tour of Oahu, more filming locations!!!

http://s246.photobucket.com/albums/gg92/mkymsehi/LOST/LOST%203%207%2009/

Kaneohe Marine Corp Swamp Romp 5.5 miles

2009-03-06T10:57:00.000-08:00

I did a Swamp Romp 5.5 mile race last weekend. It was a Total Blast!!!

Here is a link to my race report with photos. You have to scroll down the page to get to my report.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2103042

Training continues

2009-02-13T17:53:00.001-08:00

Doing my thing every Tuesday & Thursday afternoon. 8 1/4 miles through Waikiki, Kapiolani Park, and back. About 1 hour and 15 minutes average.

Sunday's doing my long slow runs, up over Diamond Head out to Kahala, Kalanianaole Hwy, and back. 10-12 miles.

Swamp Romp in the mud is coming up shortly on 2/28/09. Should be a mess!

2009-02-11T20:10:00.001-08:00

Whacky weather in Hawaii.

We had thunderstorms yesterday and today on Oahu. Then this afternoon two tornado's hit the middle of Oahu. One golf course attendant was injured as he tried to help a female golfer get into her golf cart as the winds were whipping her around. 200+ lb guy, got slammed into the golf cart windshield and cut his head.

More strong winds predicted for the weekend, so crossing my fingers we get another wind day off on Friday!

WISH 2009 Dopey Challenge (Jeff & Marcia are really crazy!!!)

2009-02-06T23:44:00.000-08:00

http://video.yahoo.com/watch/4438251/11897425

Orangeapalooza 2009 - WDW Marathon Weekend

2009-01-26T22:59:00.000-08:00

http://video.yahoo.com/watch/4369686/11725463

Dopey three days, 42.4 miles - 2009

2009-01-18T19:52:00.000-08:00

Well I'm home recuperating from a week of Disney World, friends new and old, and three races in three days.

Dopey, as we affectionately call it, involves running a 5K (3.1) on Friday, a half marathon (13.1) on Saturday, and a marathon (26.2) on Sunday.

Disney calls the Half and full the Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge. We throw in the 5K for the heck of it. It costs an arm and a leg for the registrations, but I think it's worth every penny.

Marcia and I met up, and her mom Kim came with us. Also joining us were friends Karen & Tiffany who did the full marathon.

We had forum encounters with our WISH, Disney Running, and Disney Deads online racing teams I belong to. People from across the US, and foreign countries all meet up at Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. We share laughs, good times, and lots of beer (after the races).

The 5K is un-timed, and we run for fun cheering on our friends and their keiki. Lots of pictures too.

The half Marcia and I ran together, and took our time at 2:24 and change.

The full, we split up after the start line. Marcia ran a 5:20, Karen & Tiffany a 5:50, and I did 4:45. A new personal record for me.

Now I hope I can do a sub four hour race this year. Considering I'm not running a 5K or a half marathon the two days prior to my next marathon, hopefully I can achieve that goal.

How CRAZY are we, Marcia and I have already signed up to Goofy 2010. And her mom Kim wants a piece of the half marathon again. She's Crazy!

2010 will be Marcia's 4th consecutive Goofy, while it will be my 3rd consecutive. It's the 5 year anniversary of the race.

See you all out on the roads, and at the water-stops.

2008-12-23T11:51:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm just 16 days away from the start of Dopey. 5K on 1/9/09, half marathon on 1/10/09, and full marathon on 1/11/09.

I'm so looking forward to it, and wish I was there right now. But alas, we have a island hop trip to Maui from 12/31/08 to 1/5/09. Back to work on 1/6/09, and catch the red eye out of here to Orlando, by way of Salt Lake City. Here's hoping there is clear weather into and out of SLC.

Training runs continue for the next two weeks. No injuries from the Honolulu Marathon, so the body and mind is raring to go.

Mele Kalikimaka, and Haouli Makahiki Hou!

It's my house now!

2008-12-15T15:10:00.000-08:00

For a stonker run, I still PR'd !

2008-12-14T14:47:00.000-08:00

Well, the good news is I PR'd!!! 5:11:49.

I was feeling in the groove through mile 15 1/2, and then the legs said that's enough and cramped up on me. I ended up walking the remaining 11 miles back to the finish, and whenever I attempted to run the cramps returned.

Oh well, it was a training run for next month.

Rain was falling the first 12 miles, then it faded to a drizzle. Finally around mile 20 the sun popped out, and made it hot and humid.

Got my shirt and medal, and the family picked me up.

Took my ice bath, threw everything in the laundry, and I am ready for lunch!

Three other things I am happy about, no chaffing, 10 toenails, and I can walk down stairs normally without holding onto the handrail. :lol:

Robin B. from Massachusetts, went chugging by me around mile 14. I looked to my right, and saw the only other Disneyrunning.com Storming the Castle hat on the course. She didn't see mine, so she must have been in a zone. I had to yell at her "Nice hat" before she looked over her shoulder and saw me. That was pretty funny! We exchanged high-fives, and that was the last I saw of her.

Hope everyone is having a good Sunday.

Aloha Oe.

Gone from being Goofy, to Dopey!!!

2008-12-04T17:09:00.000-08:00

Ok, now we're beyond Goofy Crazy, we're now Dopey Crazy!!!

A few online friends had extra 5K entries for sale, since they registered twice by mistake. A quick PM (Private Message) back and forth, and now Marcia and I are doing 42.4 miles over three days.

5K (3.1), half marathon (13.2), and full marathon (26.2).

If we don't make it back, check the hospitals to see if we're in the padded suite rooms.

2008 Turkey Trott

2008-11-27T14:16:00.000-08:00

I ran the Honolulu Turkey Trot 10 mile race. $3.00 entry fee, no medals, no shirts, but lots of prizes.

Watches, Garmins, Ipods are forbidden, as you must predict your finish time on a tongue depressor that you turn in at the finish line.

I predicted 1:30:00, and finished 1:32:16. I was 13.6 seconds average per mile slower than my prediction. I could have come in closer, but cruised the last mile and a quarter down Diamond Head, because I thought I was under my time. Oh well, slower is better.

A friend I train with, was 1 second off her total time, and won 1st place for the finishers over the two hour mark. The winner of the finishers under the 2 hour mark was 2 seconds over his predicted time.

Our team competition, 25 racers per team, and total combined time. My team finished 4th out of 4 teams. We were 2:32 over our total team average. The winning team was 1:32 over their average.

Fun race, if you're ever in the islands for Thanksgiving.

2008-11-25T12:49:00.000-08:00

Two and a half weeks to the Honolulu Marathon.

Weather here has been a bit rainy, cool, windy. Hopefully this trend continues for the next two weeks, and we have a nice cool day in the 70's for the race.

The calf healed after a week off, and some rehab stretching and massage. Everything is back to normal.

Tapering on the long runs. In the last two Sunday's out, I did 13 1/2 and 11 miles. Weekdays remain at 8 miles.

Received my registration confirmation in the mail, now just have to wait for the EXPO to pick up my race packet.

Recovery Mode

2008-11-07T12:15:00.000-08:00

Hurting calf for one week now. Rested and did not run for 7 days. Got back out there yesterday, and slugged out 6 3/4 mile jog.

Heat and massage helping with the pain. Hopefully I can get over this soon. Honolulu Marathon on 12/14, and Goofy on 1/10 & 1/11/09.

Sitting around the house is killing me, but probably for the best so my muscles are healing.

2008-10-28T23:28:00.000-07:00

I keep forgetting to post over here with updates.

Did the Niketown 30K (18 miles) on Sunday. Rain made it not so fun of a race. Rather than push it, I slowed down to avoid slipping or stepping in a filled pothole.

2:59:05 finish time.

2008-10-15T00:33:00.000-07:00

My long Sunday runs have been rough lately. Either not enough sleep, or not enough fuel. Trying to get the right combination going in the next few weekends.

My weekday runs have been great, 10 miles at 8:25 pace on Tuesday. Just not carrying it over to Sunday's.

About 2 months left before Honolulu marathon, and 87 days to the start of Goofy 2009 down at Walt Disney World.

Looking forward to more laughs and fun with Marcia, her mom Kim, Karen, and her friend Tiffany. Who doesn't love running a Disney race?

2009 Disneyland Half Marathon discount code, good to 12/31/08.

2008-10-04T21:35:00.000-07:00

http://http://www.disneyrunning.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2672

2008-09-30T11:20:00.001-07:00

http://www.fiddy2.com/

Wow, this guy did 52 marathons in 52 weeks back in 2006. Amazing!

Nike 5K and one mile Kids Run

2008-09-22T21:20:00.000-07:00

I completed the 5K in 24:44:99.

Following that, I jogged with CC in the one mile Kids Run, about 14 minutes.

Nice weather, and lots of families participating.

2008-09-14T14:09:00.000-07:00

Sunday long run.

18 miles this morning, 10:05 average pace. It was hot out there, with no tradewinds and some vog.

Much better run than last Sunday, which I had to walk the last 3 miles back in. Today was running through mile 14, then run a mile and walk 1 minute coming back in the last 4 miles.

2008-09-13T11:06:00.000-07:00

Here we go again.

What was supposed to be an off year, 2009, suddenly became we're going back to Florida.

LOL, Marcia lured me into going back to Walt Disney World. But with the opportunity there, we opted to do GOOFY's Race and a Half Challenge. Another 39.3 miles over two days (Saturday's half marathon, followed by Sunday's full marathon).

Have that ice bath waiting after both finish lines!

2008-09-06T00:04:00.000-07:00

Here it is, another Magical Marathon video (it's 31 minutes long).

Get your popcorn, beverage, a comfortable chair. Now sit back, relax and enjoy the show.

Be sure to click on the box in the lower right corner, next to the blue volume control, which will enlarge your viewing screen.

http://video.yahoo.com/watch/3447675/9613130

Disneyland Half 2008

2008-09-03T16:38:00.000-07:00

Hey, I'm back from the Disneyland Half Marathon.

Marcia, her mom Kim, Karen, Julie, Gar, and I had a great 4 day weekend at the house of mouse.

Marcia and I had a fun run in the 5K on Saturday.

We all (except for Gar) ran the half marathon on Sunday. The temperatures were way better than in 2007, but still a bit warm and humid at the start. Overcast skies and a slight breeze kept things cool for the first 2 1/2 hours. When the sun came out, it got hot.

My time was 2:02:17, just off my PR in July's Honolulu Hibiscus half.

Had a great time meeting WISH, Disneyrunning, and Disney Deads team members all weekend long.

Disneyland Half Marathon

2008-08-28T16:26:00.000-07:00

I'm all packed and waiting to leave this evening to Disneyland.

I'm meeting up with friends Marcia, her mom Kim, Julie & Gar, and Karen to run the races. I'm doing both the 5K on Saturday, and half marathon on Sunday. I'll also log the miles on Sunday for the Nike Human Race (10K virtural race).

While there, will be meeting up with members of the WISH, Disneyrunning, and Disney Dead running groups that I blog and chat with online. Will be fun to put faces to names.

I will try to get a personal record in the half (sub 1:59) if the weather cooperates.

Once I put the video together of all the pictures, I'll get it up on Youtube.

2008-08-23T00:08:00.001-07:00

Winding down the last few workouts before heading to Disneyland with friends. We're running the 5K on Saturday, and the Half Marathon on Sunday. Looking forward to claiming my "Coast to Coast" medal, given to anyone who completed either the half or full marathon in Florida back in January, and finishes the half in August in California.

Disney, gotta love them for coming up with another way to get my money! LOL.

Will post photos when I get back.

2008-08-10T22:42:00.000-07:00

Olympics addiction. LOL, watching as much as I can on the various networks and live streaming online. All those not so popular sports are online, so that's where I have to go to watch them.

My weekday runs are 8-8 1/2 miles, at a 8:40 to 9:00 per mile pace. The Sunday runs are 16 miles in July, at a 10:00 to 10:30 per mile pace.

I'm heading off to Disneyland for the third Half marathon during the last weekend in August. Will keep doing this race each year, since it's so much fun running through the parks. Participants who did either the half or full marathon in January at Walt Disney World, and finish this August's half, receive a special coast to coast medal. Whooo hooo, more fun bling!

2008-07-18T00:34:00.000-07:00

I'm back, gosh I haven't posted in over a month.

I've been doing my weekday runs of 8-8.25 miles with my running Guru Les. Well my pace has gone from 10-10:30 minutes per mile, down to an average of 9 minutes, and even dip down to 8:20-8:30 if we're sprinting. My stamina has greatly increased.

My weekend runs are 14 miles this month, with the Honolulu Marathon Clinic pink group. I'm still helping train all the first time marathoners.

Got a GPS Garmin etrex hand unit, and also a Garmin 405. Both work for geocaching, which is our latest hobby. We go out at least once a week in search of treasure.

Counting the days down to the Disneyland Half at the end of August. Boy can I use a vacation! Going for the "Coast to Coast" medal, having done the eastern portion of the Goofy in January at Walt Disney World.

Happy training everyone. And Aloha!

Honolulu Hibiscus Half Marathon 6/15/08

2008-06-15T15:13:00.000-07:00

Aloha everyone,

My unofficial time was 1:59:07 on the finish line clock. Average pace was 9:06 per mile. Finisher #214, of an estimated 700.

May 11th

2008-05-11T14:40:00.000-07:00

Our clinic's Pink group bumped up our distance to 10 miles today. A dozen of us went for a 11 minute mile pace, including 7 water stops. So actually we were running in a 9 minute mile pace, give or take.

2008-05-04T21:57:00.000-07:00

Whoooo hooooo

Mooshu and I are registered for the Honolulu Marathon in December. Today was the early bird registration.

The line curled around the block of our local Niketown store where registration takes place. A few friends waited 4 hours before the store opened, while I waited just 45 minutes, having gone to breakfast before the 10 am opening. Rookie mistake on their part, LOL.

Sunday Clinic Report:

The clinic had about 250 people out today to the clinic. The doc talked about overheating, and staying hydrated.

The Pink group had about 15 out today, and I was along with them to the 4 mile mark, where they turned back. I continued with a friend to the 5 mile turn around. We met up with the advanced group at mile 6 (for me), mile 8 for them, and they blazed out of the water stop ahead of us.

At mile 6.5 for me, we caught up to the advanced group, who had a 12 year old cross country runner with them. He was experiencing side cramps, and was having difficulty simply jogging. I sent the other advanced guys on their way, and told them I'd watch the kid. I gave him Gatorade, and a mustard pack for his cramping.

Well, the kid tried to be Superman, and took off without us, despite us telling him to slow down. So I trailed him for the next mile and a half. At the next water stop I had him drink, and once again he took off in search of the advanced group, who were now long gone.

The kid was already "hitting the wall" and not aware of his surroundings. Mind you it was about 83 degrees out, with gentle trade winds. Up ahead, he dashed out in the crosswalk, and was nearly hit by an approaching car.

The kid kept going, and was hauling up Diamond Head road trying to pass the intermediate group. Their leader told him to walk, and he finally stopped. When I caught up to him at mile 9 (11 for him), his eyes were glazed over like a dead fish, and weaving like a drunk. He was done, finished, kaput.

I did a head to toe assessment with him, and determined he was in the early stages of heat stroke. So I sat him down in the shade, and asked him what day it was, the date, and where he goes to school. It took him a minute or so to think out his answers before he could tell me. He didn't recall the crosswalk incident where he almost got run over.

At this point I had him give me his dad's phone number, who I called to have come out and meet us. While we waited, I gave him Gatorade and a powerbar. Within 15 minutes, he started to "come to his senses."

The dad arrived with cold drinks, and I hitched a ride back to the park. I instructed the dad to get the son some lunch, and lots of water and Gatorade, plus a cool bath to bring down his temperatures.

Back at the park I had the two other leaders who were with him earlier in the day come and check on him, and they gave advice on how to rest the remainder of the day. He'll probably end up with a headache, so I told the dad to give a single Tylenol if a headache comes on.

So this ends my story, and the moral of the story is don't overdo it during your training runs, hydrate and fuel properly, and listen to your body before ending up in the hospital. I hope the story wasn't boring.

Our picnic after the run was wonderful. Lots of good grinds to sample, and replenish the gas tank.

We got our new Clinic Staff tank top shirts. Mizuno tech material, nice!

Honolulu Marathon Clinic

2008-04-21T17:38:00.000-07:00

I train every Sunday with the Honolulu Marathon Clinic, and for the last two years I was just a participant. This year I decided to give back, and become a volunteer staff member, to help guide new runners on the journey to completing a marathon.

Since March, when the clinic officially starts the training year, I've been assisting other staff members with their groups. But this past Sunday, I was put into the position of leading a group on the run, since their regular leader was away on the mainland for a relay-race.

So a dozen of us, a mixture of experienced and novice runners, went out for a 8.25 mile run. Along the way, we discussed nutrition, what gels/powerbars/shot blocks/sports beans/pretzels, and which electrolyte & water drinks to experiment with. We averaged 10 minute miles +/- 30 to 40 seconds per mile.

We returned back to our starting point with smiles on our faces, so I know I didn't push them too hard on the run.

More truck designs

2008-04-21T17:32:00.000-07:00

I had this made to customize my truck.

2008-04-05T22:59:00.000-07:00

Ford Island 10K April 5, 2008

363

JEFF

HONOLULU HI

214

43 M 40-44

53:28.8

53:43.9

0:15.1

8:39/M

Another beautiful run this morning around Ford Island, site of the USS Arizona Memorial, and the USS Missouri (bookends to the start and end of World War II).

I finished #363 out of 1,578

53:28.8

43rd Male 40-44

8:39 pace per mile

363

JEFF OH

HONOLULU HI

214

43 M 40-44

53:28.8

53:43.9

0:15.1

8:39/M

363

JEFF

HONOLULU HI

214

43 M 40-44

53:28.8

53:43.9

0:15.1

8:39/M

LPGA events in Hawaii

2008-02-23T22:52:00.001-08:00

We went to the two LPGA events here in Hawaii, the SBS Open at Turtle Bay, and the Fields Open at Ko Olina Golf Club.

My girls were able to meet several players, and got their hands on the winner's checks belonging to Annika Sorenstam, and Paula Creamer.

Sadly, they did not offer to pay for any of my race entry fees. Instead it all went to candy.

Goofy Race and a Half Challenge 2008

2008-01-20T16:19:00.000-08:00

WHAT WAS I THINKING???

My one and only marathon was done here in Honolulu, back in 1995, the Honolulu Marathon. Due to injuries and illness, I end up walking most of it, and finished in 8 1/2 hours. After all the pain and agony, I declare to everyone I know "Never again!" I told my wife Kim, "If I ever even think about doing another marathon, just shoot me."

At that point in my life, my running career was OVER. DONE. FINISHED.

Well then my friend Marcia from California showed up to do the 2005 Honolulu Marathon and wants me to train with her. I said "No way, been there, done that, no thank you." I ended up road crewing for her out on the race course.

Within days of Marcia finishing, I said to myself, wow she did great (5:20 finish). That got me thinking, maybe I want to run the Honolulu Marathon 2006.

So I find myself training with the Honolulu Marathon Clinic. Days turn into weeks, which turn into months. Many new friends made in my running group, and our motto is "Live to Run, Run to Eat." Throughout the year there are other races registered for and run with fellow running nuts.

Four of my friends (including Marcia) meet up with me for the inaugural Disneyland half marathon 2006, which we complete in 2:20.

Marcia returns for the Honolulu Marathon 2006, which we run in 5:30. She is using the Honolulu Marathon as just a training run, to get through the Goofy Race and a Half Challenge in 2007. She finishes the Donald Duck half in 2:59, dragging a friend who didn't train. The following day she completes the Mickey Mouse full in 5:01 (her personal record).

Now I'm hooked. I continue to train with the Clinic for my second year. There are several races that I participate in throughout the year. 5K'S, 10K'S, 18K'S, etc.

Again, we're off to run the Disneyland half marathon 2007, but this time there are six of us racing. We finish in 2:50, trying not to collapse in the extreme heat.

We again run the Honolulu Marathon 2007, amidst heavy rain, puddles, and eventually high humidity, not to mention timing chip problems. We finish in 5:50, just taking our time.

The New Year 2008 arrives, and we meet up at Walt Disney World, registered for the Goofy Race and a Half a Challenge. It's Marcia's second, and my first attempt. Everywhere we turn there are runners who we strike up conversations with. People of all ages, backgrounds, from all parts of the country, and even from other countries. We talk to beginners, to extreme running nuts.

Race days arrive, and we finish the Donald Duck half in 2:31, and the Mickey full in 5:33. Goofy Race and a Half Challenge 39.3 miles achieved! Running through the parks was spectacular, all the cheering fans, and all the WONDERFUL VOLUNTEERS! I will return for this race sometime in the future.

For anyone considering registering, I highly recommend running the Goofy Race and a Half Challenge at some point in your running career. It's very well organized, and tons of fun.

So, after thousands of miles, cramping, lost toenails, several pairs of shoes, not to mention 20 pounds lost, I feel that I'm in the best shape of my life. I will continue this running lifestyle, which is a mental sport. I say mental, because "we're all nuts."

To my running Guru Marcia:

I thank you from the bottom of my heart for getting me up off the couch, and leading a healthy active lifestyle. I know you kept saying "this is my last marathon, I am retired." But deep down inside, I know you'll keep on hitting the roads because there are many more races ahead of you. Your upcoming bike adventure is a new challenge, but your a runner at heart. I remind you that you have too many t-shirts, tech shirts, and running gear to throw away or donate. You might as well make use of it. LOL, "You Crazy!" See you at the Disneyland half in August, 2008.

To my wife Kim, and daughters Courtney and LeAnn:

Thank you for supporting my running addiction. You went from being a golf widow and orphans, to a running widow and orphans. I wouldn't have been able to achieve all these race finishes without you, and for road crewing me along the way. I love you all so very much!

Aloha,
Jeff