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phatjosh180 · 6 years ago

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180 WEEK: My Top 10 Favorite Race Medals

The past couple months as I’ve been preparing for this race — and everything that comes with it — I’ve been going through all of my race medals. I’ve not been going through them to reminisce, but to also organize a bit better. I have all of my medals stored by year in seven shoeboxes.

I want (well, need) to display them more prominently — and I am working on all of that. I’ve bought some wall mounts along with a race medal lamp holder. Yes, it’s a lamp I can hang my race medals on. It’s pretty cool.

For the past several years I’ve been sharing my year’s favorite race medals at the end of each year. And, I thought since we’re here at the end of the road of my 180 races — I should do the same, but for ALLLLLLLLL of my 180 races.

I don’t have a set criteria for the medals. They’re just my favorite for different reasons. Generally speaking I love medals that are large, detailed and have a good heft to them. But, there are also race medals that have some personal meaning to me — that might lack on the size, details and/or heft.

But, that doesn’t mean they’re not cherished equally. I guess this is what it’s going to feel like once I have kids?

I digress.

Anyways, here are my top ten favorite race medals from my 180 races. I’ve included a little blurb to each to explain why they’re one of my favorites.

Enjoy!

MEDAL #10

Mt. Nebo Half, 2017 pic.twitter.com/ymz2VFocvD

— Josher (@josherwalla) July 16, 2018

The Mt. Nebo Half is one of my favorite half marathons. It’s a fast fun downhill race that I PR’d at in 2013. Nebo will always have a special place in my heart. It’s just a great race.

I practically love this medal for the design — it’s just — rad. I love the colors and black gold. It makes the orange POP. Plus, the design on point and I love the edges that bring the mountain inside the leaf. A very, very, very awesome race medal. Consequently, the same year’s race shirt is one of my favorites to wear.

MEDAL #9

Ogden Marathon, 2014. pic.twitter.com/8fdMy46NAM

— Josher (@josherwalla) July 16, 2018

The detail on this medal is awesome. I love the Ogden arch design along with the mountains on this medal — it’s clean with simplicity of color. Not only that it’s a good size with a great heft to it. It doesn’t leave you feeling disappointed — you definitely feel like you EARNED the medal.

This medal is special to me as well, because this was the marathon I surprised my friend Becca at — after training for it with her thinking I wasn’t running it. You’ll read more about that later this week.

MEDAL #8

Ragnar Relay: Wasatch Back, 2013. pic.twitter.com/hVsRt04uXR

— Josher (@josherwalla) July 16, 2018

This was my first Ragnar — it was also my first and last time being the team captain. But, that’s a story for another day. But, I absolutely love this race medal. Not only does it have a spinny thing in the middle (my favorite feature), but it’s HUGE and HEAVY!

The design is fun and clean while the colors on point with the orange and silver. It’s just a great medal all around. This is one medal I love to show off whenever I give presentations about my journey and races.

RAGNAAAAAAAAR!!!

MEDAL #7

Joshua Tree Half Marathon, 2017. pic.twitter.com/QwP9KaVRAJ

— Josher (@josherwalla) July 16, 2018

It took me nearly six years of running to finally run a Vacation Races event. Something I’m a little bummed about, because I’ve always loved their race medal designs. They put great effort into them and they come out great. And, from a design aspect — they’re clean and on brand.

This was my first Vacation Races event — and I picked it mainly because it’s my name. And, I was able to run the Snow Canyon Half Marathon in the morning of the same — so I was able to run my name — Joshua Snow Hansen. Pretty cool, huh?

This was a tough race — and day — I was sick throughout the day (I threw up 12 times throughout the day) but I managed to finish both races — and earn this beauty! I can’t wait to run more Vacation Races!

MEDAL #6

Disneyland Half Marathon, 2012. pic.twitter.com/6ZWAfXjST1

— Josher (@josherwalla) July 16, 2018

It’s kind of fitting that I am sharing this post on Disneyland’s birthday. As many might know — I am somewhat of a Disneynerd. I love Disney, Disneyland, Walt Disney — pretty much anything Disney. So being able to combine my love for Disney and running was natural for me.

I did the Disneyland Half Marathon in both 2011 and 2012 — and honestly there’s not much of a difference in the design. Probably none to be honest with you. So this could technically be a tie?

Either way, I love the design and size of this race medal. The design is clean with the all gold cast — and the size is pretty hefty. Disney didn’t skimp on the medals — which they shouldn’t because when you’re paying nearly $200 for a race without getting a park ticket for the day — they should go all out.

I’m sometimes a conflicted jaded Disneyland fan.

MEDAL #5

Pony Express Trail 50, 2016. pic.twitter.com/ekWOAxCk5I

— Josher (@josherwalla) July 16, 2018

This is definitely the smallest race medal on this list. Don’t let the picture fool — it’s rather small. When I first got it — I’ll admit I was a bit disappointed. I was kinda hoping I got a honking 50lbs. race medal put around my neck for the accomplishment. But, I’m okay with it now.

What it lacks in size, it makes up in meaning. There’s so much meaning in this medal. Just the fact I was able to complete the 50 miles is meaning enough — but, the miles training for before the race, my journey, etc. all weighed into that finish line. The really made the size of this medal feel like that 50lbs. race medal.

I can’t wait to earn another one these medals and cherish it just as much — regardless of the size.

MEDAL #4

The Bakers Dozen Half Marathon, 2015. pic.twitter.com/7roXsYxcMq

— Josher (@josherwalla) July 16, 2018

You could serve cupcakes to a family of eight on this race medal! Seriously, no joke! This is the largest medal I own size wise. It’s HUGE! And, the whimsical, colorful and fun design just fits with the race and Race Director Cory Reese TOO WELL!

I feel like I need a redo on this race, because I ran it sick and wasn’t able to fully enjoy the race as one should. The race consists of four laps of a loop in Hurricane with an aid station of cookies, donuts and sugar galore — that you can (and are encouraged to) gorge on.

I just wasn’t feeling well — and ended up eating no more than 5 mini donuts.

Weak sauce!

But, hey, I still earned the medal!

MEDAL #3

Runtastic Events Trilogy Medal, 2017. pic.twitter.com/feCLSzP8VX

— Josher (@josherwalla) July 16, 2018

Seriously, this is an AWESOME medal. This is the Runtastic Events Trilogy Medal — a medal you get for running three of their half marathons or marathon during one calendar year. This has a double meaning for me — well maybe more, actually.

This medal has some serious size, heft and design. It’s absolutely HUGE and HEAVY! But, it’s special to me because it’s for the year that I worked with Runtastic Events. I quit to focus on PrepperCon in August of that year so I was also able to earn the medal by running the Mt. Nebo Half and both Haunted Half races.

I love this medal as well because it’s the same year that I visited Greece — so that tie into the meaning of earning it and working for the company — just puts it in a special place in my heart.

But, seriously — IT’S HUGE! (TWSS)

MEDAL #2

Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon, 2014. pic.twitter.com/EGMNPJuvsE

— Josher (@josherwalla) July 16, 2018

This medal has some serious heft to it! Not only that, but the design is clean and classy — an absolute favorite of mine. Not only is the design one of my favorites, but the memory attached to it bumps it up a few notches on the list.

This was Jill’s first marathon that I ran alongside her. I’ll have more about this memory and moment later this week. But, I will always love and cherish that moment.

And, Revel has always had awesome race medals.

MEDAL #1

The Haunted Half, 2016. pic.twitter.com/4sU6NPXnmz

— Josher (@josherwalla) July 16, 2018

Full disclosure — I am little biased on this medal. I had a hand in the design with this race medal when I worked for Runtastic Events. But, I seriously love it. Not only for the color design, but I love the black gold that makes all those colors pop and it’s a nice sized medal.

I’m not a huge fan of gore and scar when it comes to Halloween. So going the route of Día de Muertos I thought was perfect. You get the Halloween vibe without the blood and gore. It was really a winner.

But, it’s hard to not pick up this medal and not stare at it. This will be pretty hard to top in my book. I absolutely love it.

A post shared by The Runcast (@theruncast) on Apr 17, 2018 at 6:18am PDT

180 WEEK: My Top 10 Favorite Race Medals was originally published on PhatJosh | My Life Running.

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50stateshalfmarathon · 3 years ago

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Another great pre-race photo of 50 States Half Marathon Club members at Revel Big Cottonwood 2021#Utah! #running #halfmarathon #halfmarathons

#utah #running #halfmarathon #halfmarathons

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a-pure-guts-race · 5 years ago

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when i was sixteen years old, i decided that i believed in magic. i decided that everything in my world was big, and important, and i wanted to see it fully for how beautiful it could be every day.

before i moved to california, before i read old books in hallways with echoing footsteps, before i danced on top of tables drunk in the dark, before i lost my mind, before i fell in love and before i saw mountains and valleys and coastlines bigger and vaster, more delicate and meaningful than i knew existed, i sat in old basements in a small town with my two very best friends. the magic i believed in begins and ends with them.

hi! i’m karina.

i used to blog around these parts, mostly about running and running fast, back in 2013 until maybe... 2015? a lot of the people that followed us back then probably aren’t active anymore, and if they are, maybe they don’t remember us. but i do.

katie, abby, and i started this blog when i was a junior in high school (making katie a sophomore and abby a freshman) because we had big dreams and we wanted to talk about them. i was an 800m runner, and i was pretty damn intense - in this pursuit, i learned how strong and relentless i could be. after high school, i flew out to california to attend stanford (10/10 VERY magical, very rewarding, very lucky). i ran until one day i didn’t, and i didn’t start again for years. that was hard.

i’ve since graduated and nowadays i live with my boyfriend out in california in our cute little 9th story apartment. i work in a brick building in san francisco where i write a lot of code and do a lot of internal consulting. i still find a lot of joy and purpose in running, mostly long-distances now, and ran my first full marathon in the fall in 3:35. i learned a bit of guitar and a bit about personal investing. i’m very happy.

a n y w a y s.

there is so, so much nuance to of all of that and it doesn’t even begin to cover what i’ve really been up to over the past five years. if you know you know, i guess. and if you’ve made it this far in this recap... WOW!

there’s a reason i returned to this space, again, after all of this time. katie, abby, and i are running a marathon this fall (revel big cottonwood on september 12th), and we wanted to come back to this very special slice of our own internet magic to share the training buildup and little joys along the way! running a marathon together in a big, wild, magical place is something we have been dreaming of doing together for YEARS, but the stars hadn’t quite aligned until now. running is such a special thing to have been able to share with My Boys over the past ~8 years.

what a extraordinary journey this life has always been (and still is). TALK TO YOU SOON OLD PALS.

#karina #big cottonwood

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flamepoint-runner · 7 years ago

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My first marathon: race recap

[Ridiculously long post ahead....]

Hoo boy - so one week ago I ran my first marathon - Revel Big Cottonwood. I had signed up for the race in April, and as you know (if you scroll back through my posts) i’ve been very on-again, off-again about actually running the damn thing. I finally truly committed to it at the start of August after some not-the-greatest training this summer, and I managed to pull it off and cross that finish line. Here’s a recap below the cut:

Firstly, it was a long week at school leading up to the race. It didn’t matter that our training (tapering) runs were only 2, 3, and 4 miles. We had to get them done in the early mornings before school. That plus after school commitments meant for some very long days leading up to the marathon. Friday afternoon we drove in for packet pick-up and took some time to check out the out-and-back portion of the course. I finally got home that evening close to 8pm and had to set my alarm for 2:30am Saturday. Not a lot of time to sleep...but it is what it is.

Saturday morning: up at 2:30 to eat something, make coffee, and get myself ready. My friend L picked me up at 3:30 to drive in - the race was about 45 min drive away from our town. We got there and boarded one of the buses to take us up the canyon around 4:30am. Once on the bus I was like, “okay, this is it. You’re really committed now...!” Yikes! It took us almost an hour to get up the canyon to our starting spot. We were behind one of the half-marathon buses and had to wait for them to unload at their starting spot, then drive another 10 miles up the canyon.

It was cool out, but not super-cold while waiting for the race to start. We both got in line for the porta potties right after getting off the bus. Then we just found a place to stand along the road and kinda keep moving while waiting. Had a banana and finished my sports drink thing (I forget what it’s called right now, but it’s supposed to help you mentally focus as well...) Got back in line at 6am for a last porta potty use - then it was time to turn in our drop bags and get ready to go!

The race officially started at 6:45am. It was kinda weird. No national anthem - no energizing music, and not even a countdown (that I could hear). Just...people starting moving towards the start line, and then running once they crossed the timing mat.

It was really crowded for the first few miles, and i had a hard time regulating my breathing. A combination of anxiety and adrenaline I’m sure. I ran with L until about mile 3 when there was a steep uphill part. I knew by looking at it that I wouldn’t be able to run the whole thing - especially with my difficulty breathing at this point - and that’s where I lost L. I was hoping to run more with her and not be so far behind at the end....but yeah, that dream died on this hill.

ANYWAYS. So I knew from here on out, I was near the back of the pack of marathon runners. Fine. Deal with it. You’re still running the damn thing, right? After the uphill at mile 3, we did a little loop and came back down the steep road which was nice. I saw a person carrying a big flag heading up the hill and i think this was the back-of-the-race pacer person. I think. So I saw that...and thought...I gotta keep ahead of him. My main goal was to finish this race in under 6 hours, which was the official cut-off time.

The first 18 miles of this race are down and out the canyon. Some parts are steeper, and sometimes it flattens out a bit...but it’s mostly just a gentle downhill. Aid stations every 2 miles - I always walked through and grabbed water. I was able to keep my pace around 11-12 mins per mile which is a bit slower but still okay I guess. I stopped once to use a porta potty but other than that I just kept moving. I’d say I ran 95% of the canyon part - just a few short walking breaks to stretch out my back, or walking the aid stations.

After the canyon was the out and back part. More uphill. Along a road next to a gravel pit with trucks going in and out and stirring up dust. Yuck. A lot of people were walking at this point - both ways!! So I was somewhat encouraged because I was walking most of this chunk too. My hip hurt and I knew I had some awesome blisters on my toes and feet...but gotta keep moving. I saw L coming back down the out and back, and i knew she’d probably finish the marathon in under 5 hours. [I am super-jealous and thus hate myself a little bit more at this point...]

Mile 20.5 was the turn-around and here I tried to take a gel. I had my gatorade chews with me and had been having a piece or two as needed. They seemed to be the only thing my stomach can handle on long runs lately. But, I was really hoping I could get some much-needed caffeine from the gel here. Tried one little sip/squirt and NOPE. Not gonna work :( Pitched it, took some more water, and headed back on the other side of the road. Positive part: there were a good number of people behind me yet! I got to see (and count) all these people as I was heading back towards the main road. Felt encouraged that I wasn’t the absolute slowest person.

At this point, the clouds were moving in pretty good and i was thankful. It was somewhat sunny in parts of the canyon earlier and i knew I would have been absolutely miserable to be running (walking) this last part in the sun. Clouds plus a few rain sprinkles = perfect. The last 4 miles I would run a chunk, walk a chunk. No specific number of minutes or distance - just whatever i felt like I could do. Right as I finished mile 24 there was a nice downhill part again that started off kinda steep - good momentum - and then slowly leveled out. I was able to run that pretty well which felt good. I was also getting pretty emotional by this point - and actually trying not to cry - like, I was just overwhelmed with thoughts: “oh my gosh I’m almost done - running a freaking MARATHON!”

When I could see the finish line and hear the announcer - it was so exhilarating! I’m almost there! Of course...it’s little bit uphill into the finishing chute (WHY PEOPLE, WHY?) but I ran that stupid little thing and FINISHED! Still a good number of people at the end, cheering you in, etc. It was good. I got a bottle of water and someone put the medal around my neck...and I’m thinking “Wow - I just ran for XX time and went 26+ miles!” There was a bit more rain coming down now...and the finishing line festivities were kinda packing up. I got my drop bag and went to change into my recovery sandals and some clean/dry clothes. L and I took pictures in front of one of the cool backdrop pictures with our medals and grabbed some free mixed-soda drinks (yay sugar!) and then walked back to her car to head home.

My emotions kept flipping between glad “yay I did it” and crappy-annoyed-depressed sort of thoughts for the rest of the day and weekend. Like...I did enjoy running down the canyon and I had some really blissful moments. And yes, I’m proud of running 26 miles in one go. But I’m also super-pissed that I had such a crappy finishing time (compared to L) even though I’ve got legit reasons like my hip slowing me down. It’s super-dumb, I know, and i need to let it go and just be happy that I did a marathon. But I kind of wish L hadn’t run it as well...so I wouldn’t have anyone to compare to (and the other teachers/friends at my school wouldn’t be able to compare us as well).

My mindset when signing up and wanting to run a marathon was to do it just for me. It was a BIG fucking goal and I wanted to like...prove I’m a runner by doing it. Of course I wanted a good finishing time. But really, any time should be good enough for your first one. So it just kinda kills me inside that L can just decide to “oh yeah sure I’ll run a marathon, why not” more casually, and then finish a fucking hour ahead of me like...no big deal. And her attitude just kills me as well. Because it’s easy to say “Oh our times don’t matter! No one needs to know” when you’re the one with the better time. I used to be the better runner. I used to just LOSE her when running down the canyon for our casual runs. But now I’m fatter and slower. And I know she’ll never say it to my face, but I get this sense that she really enjoys beating me in every race we do and every training run we did. And she’ll say “good job” when I catch up sometimes - and that just pisses me off more.

YES IT’S STUPID, I KNOW. I need to stop being so jealous and just do my own thing, and focus on myself becoming a better runner. Which is the plan from here on out. I’m not going to sign up for races with her. I’ll plan out and do my own. I’m not going to do any specific training with her. Maybe, every once in awhile, we can run on a Saturday morning. But not every week. Just once in awhile so I can check in with my progress. I’m going to beat her someday. I have her marathon time burned into my brain, and I’m going to fucking beat it. I know I can. [I just need to get my hip issues sorted first] - and i can train better.

I’m going to sign up for this marathon again next year. And maybe a different one before then - who knows? At least some other half marathons. But definitely going to do this one again - and I’m already looking forward to it - gonna crush my time by A LOT.

If you’ve read all this...holy cow. Thanks. Definite brain-spilling going on.

#my running #my marathon #personal #mental struggles #long post

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kickweightloss · 6 years ago

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easiestwaytoloseweight · 5 years ago

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marketerarena-blog · 6 years ago

Text

The Best Podcasts Round Up & Running with Underwear Podcast 95

The best podcasts I’m listening to right now – a list of my favorites in each category and a lil bit about them. I’m answering a super important but maybe tmi running question – do you wear underwear under running shorts / tights? And finally the awards this week are HUGE!!

In case you’re new here…

I’m Monica and I created Run Eat Repeat.com to share 2 huge goals – run 1 full marathon, lose 20 pounds. Since then I’ve run 30 full marathons, 50 halfs, 900 donuts and now Run Eat Repeat is a huge community online and now this podcast. I’m happy you’re here!

Warm Up:

– I’m going to a knife skills class tonight! I’ll let you know if I chop off a finger! Maybe I’ll raffle it off…

– I just listened to Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer. It was amazing!

I turned on YouTube before my long run this weekend and randomly a talk by a doctor that was on Mt. Everest the season Krakaur was where a lot of people died was talking about crisis response. Since they mentioned the book I downloaded it and immediately started to listen to it on the run. I was done in a few days. Yeah! Good books and running!!

I have an Audible subscription so I listened to it – but it’s available the old fashioned way too.

– I’ve been getting questions about the Pile on the Miles for this year. Yes! I’m going to do it again in November but I’m thinking about options for check-ins and considering doing a Run Bet.

Run Bet – you bet $40 on yourself that you’ll run a set amount of times. It’s usually 4 days a week for 30 minutes.

Would you be interested?

What would be a good goal for you?

My favorite Trader Joe’s Pumpkin seasonal foods that are healthy. List up now!

Running Gear Question:

Hi Monica,

I’d like to remain anonymous because, maybe everyone already knows the answer to this but…what do you/people wear under their running shorts/tights? I just listened to your “best running shorts” podcast and wondered. Commando? Thong? If so, which ones? Thanks for letting me ask this slightly embarrassing question.

Take the Instagram Poll to chime in if you wear underwear while running!

>>> Instagram polls are in my Instagram Stories = you have to click on my bio pic in IG and that will take you to my stories. They’re only available for 24 hours so check it out before they’re gone!

If you want to wear underwear while you workout try a pair that’s made specifically to wear under running tights, shorts or yoga pants.

Workout / Running Underwear:

Under Armour Pure Stretch Thong (I’ve heard good reviews of these)

Adidas Seamless Thong Underwear

Main Event:

My Favorite Podcasts

Best Running / Fitness Podcasts:

My favorite running podcasts right now are

1. Another Mother Runner the podcast – mix of interviews with runners, race tips & recaps, training Q&A and more.

2. Endurance Planet – I’m kinda new to this one so far it’s 2 guys answering listener running, triathlon, nutrition… questions. They have mentioned a female co-host though so I think it’s co-ed sometimes. The male hosts both sound experienced and educated on running and training.

Other running podcasts in my list…

The Running Lifestyle podcast – I used to listen to this one a lot and just lost it in my usual rotation. I think it’s cute and helpful. I like that the host is big on emotional psychology.

DizRuns – He was on the RER podcast and is super fun!

Get Fit Guy – love this style of short episodes packed with research based advice. Each episode is on one specific tip or question.

The Run to the Top podcast – I used to listen to this when Tina Muir was the host. She has another podcast now – Running for Real podcast! I just haven’t updated my podcast list to listen yet.

Run Selfie Repeat now She Can and She Did podcast – From the creator of the sports bra squad Kelly Roberts updates on her marathon training, mental training and overcoming injuries

Best Fun / Comedy Podcasts:

1. Juicy Scoop with Heather McDonald

2. Watch What Crappens

I just discovered The Bitch Bible and Bitch Sesh… so I’m not sure if I love them yet but BB has had some funny moments.

Best Lifestyle Podcasts:

1. Skinny Confidential

2. Young House Love has a podcast

Best Health Nutrition Podcasts:

1. The Nutrition Diva Podcast

2. Rich Roll Podcast

Honorable mentions:

Model Health Show & Food Pysch

‘

Best True Crime Podcasts:

I loved Serial and from there discovered Crime Writers On… and then other true crime podcasts.

The best ones I’ve listened to recently:

1. In the Dark

2. Criminal

3. Dirty John – a show is coming out soon so listen and then we can watch it

Check out Podcast Episode 89 for details on This is Actually Happening

Best News Podcasts:

1. Ted Radio Hour

2. Ted Talks Daily

I don’t really listen to the other ones.

Best Business Podcasts:

1. Gary V – I’m not fancy either.

2. Pat Flynn is an entrepreneur and sounds so down to earth.

Best Religion / Mental Health Podcasts:

1. Love Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday

2. Love Meditation Minis to listen to when I go to sleep

3. Love the Savvy Psychologist

Chime in on today’s Instagram post and let me know your favorite podcast!!

And be sure to join the private Facebook group for more fun and to talk about running, eating and the show!

Awards:

The Run Eat Repeat team won 1st for the half marathon team division at the Revel Cottonwood race!!

And the RER team won 4th place for the marathon division!!

Check out the Race Discounts page to save on the other Revel Races and a lot of other races!!

If you have a question for me – email [email protected] or call the RER voicemail line 562 888 1644

Tag @RunEatRepeat on Instagram and let me know what you’re doing while listening.

And if you need motivation to workout, want to share a Rest Day Brag or just feel like encouraging someone else – comment on my daily Run Report on IG with your update!

Thanks for listening and have a great run!!

The post The Best Podcasts Round Up & Running with Underwear Podcast 95 appeared first on Run Eat Repeat.

https://askfitness.today/the-best-podcasts-round-up-running-with-underwear-podcast-95/

#fitnessgymfatlossweightloss #weightloss

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phatjosh180 · 5 years ago

Text

So I guess that's my 2019?

So, I realized today that my running season is officially over. Well, okay, it’ll officially be over on Thursday when I go under the knife to fix my peroneal tendon and a bone spur. The surgery will keep my sidelined for a good three months-ish. I say -ish, because I am anticipating that it will take me awhile to get my stamina back, especially considering that I don’t have much stamina as it is right now.

Looking back at 2019 — it sucked. I really should have seen it coming, especially going into year two of a stupid bummed ankle. I wasn’t getting into a needed rhythm and even after seeing a doctor (again) in the early part of the year — there wasn’t much concern about my ankle (PT and ice it …).

I had big plans for 2019 and they just kind of sputtered out quite quickly. I DNS’d (Did Not Start) 20 races,going into the year I had only DNS’d 17 races. So, yeah, I more than doubled that. I don’t want to think about how much money I lost, but I’m happy to say that at least some of those missed races were charity races. But, yeah, I really don’t want to tally those missed race fees.

I will be DNSing at least two more races this upcoming year that conflict with my recovery time. I am bummed I won’t be at the New Year’s Revolution Run (I’ve done it every year since 2011) and the March Madness 10K (I don’t recouping my race fees since it goes to the Bountiful Pantry) — but, even though I think I could MAYBE do the 5K during the March Madness races in March, I don’t know? And, I don’t want to push it until I know where my recovery is around that time.

But, as much as 2019 sucked — it did have it’s highlights. I loved running a number of races with friends — namely Amanda at the Salt Lake City Half Marathon and Jill at both the Revel Mt. Charleston and Big Cottonwood races. I also did really well at the Drop13 Big Cottonwood 5K with a 32 minute 5K. A race I exerted waaaaaay too much during and ended up with pneumonia a week later. But, at least I ran fast! HA!

If we’re going to look at my stats, they’re definitely not my best. But, I’m really trying not to beat myself up over it considering I did them all on a TORN PERONEAL TENDON!!! And, that goes for all of 2018 and a good chunk of 2017 as well. I’m quite proud of that stupidity.

But, as painful and trying as recovery from surgery will be — I’m excited. I’m excited to have the stupid little tendon fixed that’s been giving my running, life and health hell for the past 2.5 years! What’s another 3-4 months on top of that? I am so looking forward to that run where I can finally say — I got my rhythm back. I not only want to make 2020 my year, but I want to make 2021 and beyond the best years yet.

Anyways, here are my 2019 race results …

Completed Races

New Year’s Revolution Run; January 1, 2019 (3 hours/8.5)

Sun Half Marathon; February 2, 2019 (3:25:42)

Winter Series 15K; February 23, 2019 (2:27:51.8)

SoCal Half Marathon; March 2, 2019 (4:56:19)

Lucky13 10K; March 16, 2019 (1:22:52)

Run Emigration Canyon 10 Miler; April 6, 2019 (10 miles; 2:17:55)

Salt Lake City Half Marathon; April 13, 2019 (3:11:26)

Revel Mt. Charleston Half Marathon; April 27, 2019 (3:09:21.08)

Vigor Big Cottonwood 10K; May 11, 2019 (1:14:25)

Drop13 Big Cottonwood 5K; June 8, 2019 (0:32:36)

Dirty Dash 5K; June 8, 2019 (Untimed)

Farmington Days 10K; July 13, 2019 (1:38:41)

Handcart Days 5K; July 20, 2019 (0:41:12)

Deseret News 10K; July 24, 2019 (1:22:13)

The Launch Team 10K; August 3, 2019 (1:29:01)

Elephant Rock Trail Run; August 10, 2019 (7 miles; 2:21:17)

Mt. Nebo Half; August 24, 2019 (3:22:44)

Revel Big Cottonwood Half Marathon; September 14, 2019 (3:19:21)

Remember Me 5K; October 5, 2019 (Untimed)

The Haunted 5K: Provo; October 26, 2019 (0:47:03)

Spectrum Turkey Trot 5K; November 9, 2018 (0:45:46)

Races Not Started

St. George Half Marathon; January 19, 2019

Frigid 5K; January 26, 2019

Free Food 5K; January 26, 2019

March Madness 10K; March 2, 2019

Antelope Island Buffalo Run 25K; March 9, 2019

Wasatch Trail Run: Utah Olympic Park; May 22, 2019

Race for Grief 10K; May 27, 2019

Wasatch Trail Run: Solitude; June 12, 2019

Utah Summer Games 10K; June 14, 2019

Wasatch Trail Run: Snowbird; June 19, 2019

Follow the Flag 5K Trail Race; July 6, 2019

Wasatch Trail Run: Alta; July 10, 2019

Wasatch Trail Run: Brighton; July 17, 2019

Speedgoat 25K; July 20, 2019

Wasatch Trail Run: Snowbird; August 7, 2019

Wasatch Trail Run: Alta; August 14, 2019

The Haunted 5K: SLC; October 19, 2019

South Davis Turkey 10K; November 28, 2019

New Year’s Revolution Run; January 1, 2020

March Madness 10K; March 7, 2020

Here is how 2019 compares to the other years I’ve raced over the years …

Total Miles Raced

2007 – 006.20 miles 2010 – 006.20 miles 2011 – 093.40 miles 2012 – 374.20 miles 2013 – 334.40 miles 2014 – 463.10 miles 2015 – 452.70 miles 2016 – 410.38 miles 2017 – 452.30 miles 2018 – 299.90 miles 2019 – 162.90 miles

TOTAL – 3052.72 miles

Races over 13.1 Miles

2011 – 05 races 2012 – 25 races 2013 – 24 races 2014 – 30 races 2015 – 31 races 2016 – 22 races 2017 – 32 races 2018 – 18 races 2019 – 06 races

TOTAL – 193 races

Races over 26.2 Miles

2012 – 3 races 2014 – 3 races 2015 – 2 races 2016 – 5 races 2017 – 1 race

TOTAL – 14 races

Total Races

2007 – 01 race 2010 – 02 races 2011 – 11 races 2012 – 27 races 2013 – 28 races 2014 – 33 races 2015 – 34 races 2016 – 27 races 2017 – 34 races 2018 – 32 races 2019 – 21 races

TOTAL – 250 races

Let’s get this surgery over with and bring on 2020! I can’t wait!

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A post shared by Trails & Pavement (@trailsandpavement) on Oct 26, 2018 at 8:45pm PDT

So I guess that’s my 2019? was originally published on Life In The Slow Lane.

#2019 #2019 running #half marathon #running

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phatjosh180 · 5 years ago

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Surgery, Recovery and Rehab

Welp. Surgery is set. Next Thursday will be the day. Dr. Trevor Williams is fixing a couple tears in my peroneal tendon and shaving a bone spur down around the tendons. Most of the pain and aggravation from the tendons is not just from the tears, but how the spur is rubbing against the tendon.

I’m really surprised that I’ve last over two years with the injury. To think I’ve done over 75+ races on it since the initial injury — is just crazy. It’s really both amazing and stupid. But, it’s not like I didn’t try to get it fixed — I just hadn’t found the right doctor yet. Too bad I didn’t go to Dr. Williams initially.

Lesson learned.

I am pretty excited to have the surgery, because I can’t wait to get back into an actual rhythm. I can’t wait to get my endurance back and get rid of some of this weight. I’d really like to get down a good 50-60lbs. next year. And, really, this surgery is the key to all of that.

I’m not worried about the actual surgery — but, after my pre-op yesterday, I won’t lie — the recovery and rehab is something I’m going to have to make sure I follow and am patient with. Realizing I am going to be in a boot for 6-8 weeks and then not able to run for about 8-12 weeks — kind of freaked me out a bit.

Patience.

The thought of dealing with a boot during snow and ice season makes me a little nervous as well. Even though I don’t need crutches, I’m still going to use them for stability to get around outside. I don’t want to take a chance.

But, the little things of surgery hit me yesterday — like, showering with a plastic bag over my foot, sleeping in a boot, switching out bandages and getting stitches removed. Did you know that I’ve never had stitches? So this will be kind of all new for me. I’m not worried about the actual pain — more the disruption of everyday life.

With a 8-12 week break from running — I am looking at getting back around the first of March-ish. I already have plans for a 10K and Half Marathon in March, but honestly, I’m going to play it conservatively and push that back to April. I want to get some running down on the treadmill and around the neighborhood first before I race.

But, right now I’m thinking of doing the Eggs Legs 10K on April 11th before doing the Salt Lake City Half Marathon the following weekend. I’ll follow that up with the Provo City 5K and Vigor Big Cottonwood Half the following month. I am hoping by June I’ll be ready to work toward marathon training for the Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon in September.

I’m not sure if those are too ambitious for me? But, between getting back to 100% with running, strength training and consistency — I feel good about getting into better shape both physically and mentally. It’s amazing how long I’ve been dealing with the physical and emotional impact of this stupid ankle. It’s been too long. I’m sick of the pain, especially when a winter storm comes rolling in.

Blah.

But, the beginning of the end is coming next Thursday. And, for that — I’m excited and ready — for this new adventure. Let’s do this!

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A post shared by Trails & Pavement (@trailsandpavement) on Jan 5, 2019 at 4:20am PST

Surgery, Recovery and Rehab was originally published on Life In The Slow Lane.

#health #peroneal tendon

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phatjosh180 · 5 years ago

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That &@$# Ankle ... but ... it's getting better!

After nearly two and a half years of dealing with a stupid hurting ankle — I finally have some answers. Like, some concrete answers — along with some tangible solutions. Something I’ve felt would never happen after dealing with the pain for over a couple years.

As a refresher — on April 1, 2017 — while running down Emigration Canyon I twisted my right ankle on a pothole. It hurt, but nothing I felt that was too serious in the moment. I had sprained my ankle before and they would just naturally heal after icing and babying it for a week or so.

Welp, after babying it for about a month I went to the foot doctor and got prescribed physical therapy and rest. After a couple of months of PT — I didn’t show much progress, but was told it would take some time to feel better.

So, I kept running waiting for the pain to go away.

I really should have pushed on the brakes, but I had a number of goals I wanted to reach sooner than later. One, was reaching my 180th race — I had about 25-30 races to go and really wanted to push to get that goal done within a year — and, two, I was working on training for a 100 mile run. I had places to go and races to run.

I really should have stopped. But, I didn’t.

Moving into 2018 I decided to go back into getting my ankle checked again, because NOTHING was helping subside the pain. But, I was once again given PT and told to ice it when needed. It was a constant reminder running up or down hill, running fast or slow, and even simply walking anywhere. I was constantly icing and babying it and I lost my rhythm. Like all of it.

2018 was full of many ups and downs for me — especially reaching my 180th race. But, as many highs as I had — I had a number of lows as well. But, none more than this year. Everything I tried to do just fell flat. My training fell flat. I was in more and more pain — and my body just couldn’t do what I knew it needed to do.

So I backed off on the running — almost completely. I took what my body could give me. I cut a lot of the half marathons and trail races I planned for the year and either downgraded them to the 10K or 5K … or just didn’t do them. That was very difficult for me to do because I knew where I could physically be — and I just wasn’t there. Let alone mentally as well.

It’s funny — well, okay, not really funny — how we process and deal with pain both physically and mentally. If I’ve learned anything from my two year experience with my ankle it’s how easy to amend our behaviors and habits to temper the pain rather than fix it. I think that’s kind of natural habit, especially when it feels like you’ve exhausted your resources on a solution.

But, as much as I tried to live with the stupid pain — I knew I didn’t have to live with it forever. I needed a solution. There had to be a solution. But, how do you really keep believing in there being a solution after you’ve gone to two doctors who just prescribe physical therapy? But, I knew it was more than just a bum sprained ankle and there had to be a better solution than what I’ve gotten from two feet doctors.

So, I went for a third opinion.

Dr. Trevor Williams — aka The Foot Doctor — was recommended to me by a number of runners, including his wife Anna. I wish I went to him MUCH earlier, because he got right down to finding a solution. In the hour — well 45 minutes — of me being there he hooked up my ankle to the ultrasound machine looking for an ACTUAL solution.

After seeing some possible damage he ordered a MRI — something that previous two doctors didn’t do. I finally felt that a solution to the pain was moving along. And, after the MRI the tests came back last Friday stating what was kind of expected — I had a tear in the peroneal tendon along with a bone spur that was aggravated the tendon.

I would need surgery to fix it.

Which I was oddly ecstatic about. But, given the mental and physical toil I’ve gone through the past couple of years — it was a tangible solution! Sure, there’s nothing minor than surgery — but at the same time Dr. Williams reassured me that I should be back and running within 8-12 weeks after surgery and be in a boot for about 6-8 of those weeks.

I can live with that temporary pain, because I have places to go, races to run and goals to meet. I desperately want to feel balanced and being 100% balanced physically is a big part of that. So three months of rehab, boots and strength training is where my focus will be — and I’m totally cool with that — because I see a solution to the issue at hand.

This does mean I will have to miss a few races. Not too many thankfully — namely the New Year’s Revolution Run (the first time missing it since 2011!) and the Sweethearts 5K. I didn’t schedule a lot of races in the winter — because I kinda anticipated something like this to happen with my ankle — plus I hate running in the cold anyways.

The only part of my schedule I am not sure about would be my March races. I was looking forward to the Canyonlands Half Marathon (because I’ve never been to Moab) and the March Madness 10K (because it benefits my hometown’s pantry) — but, I might defer my Canyonlands bib to next year and then downgrade to the 5K at the March Madness.

But, that will all determine how well my ankle responds to the surgery and rehab. Which shouldn’t be too much of an issue based on what Dr. Williams told me. So, the next 3-4 months will be spent REALLY watching my diet and doing consistent strength training. I might even jump in the pool a bit as well, who knows?

I am just glad and UBER excited to finally have some answers to this stupid issue that’s plagued me for over two years. I feel hopeful and that’s been something I haven’t felt about my running in quite a while! WOOT!

Here’s my revised race schedule for 2020 …

New Year’s Revolution Run; January 1, 2020 (AXED)

Sweethearts 5K; February 8, 2020 (AXED)

March Madness 10K; March 7, 2020 (?)

Canyonlands Half Marathon; March 14, 2020 (?)

Salt Lake City Half Marathon; April 18, 2020

Provo City 5K; May 2, 2020

Vigor Big Cottonwood Half Marathon; May 9, 2020

Race for Grief 10K; May 25, 2020

Utah Valley Half Marathon; June 6, 2020

Drop13 Big Cottonwood Half Marathon; June 13, 2020

Heber Half Run for Autism; June 27, 2020

Deseret News Half Marathon; July 24, 2020

Mt. Nebo Half Marathon; August 29, 2020

Pocatello Half Marathon; September 5, 2020

Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon; September 12, 2020

The Haunted Half: Salt Lake City; October 24, 2020

The Haunted 5K: Provo; October 31, 2020

South Davis Turkey 10K; November 26, 2020

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A post shared by The Runcast (@theruncast) on Apr 30, 2018 at 6:27pm PDT

That &@$# Ankle … but … it’s getting better! was originally published on Life In The Slow Lane.

#ankle #injury #peroneal tendon #running #sprained ankle

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phatjosh180 · 5 years ago

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Running 2020 Goals & Outlook

We have two months left of 2019 — but, I am already looking at, planning and anticipating the new year. I’ve done this in the past, but this year it’s because — well — I gave up on making much of the rest of this year. I stopped tracking my weekly and monthly mileage and I am just focusing on rehabbing my ankle, refocusing my fitness and recentering myself until the turn of the calendar. My body needs it.

I am tempering my excitement and goals for 2020, because I overdid it in 2019. I had many grandiose goals and plans. And, well, that all fell flat. I can’t even begin to tell you how many DNS’ I collected. A lot. Too many. I spent too much money on nothing.

I think part of that was fueled by this anxious need to be somewhere with my fitness and running that just wasn’t realistic. Anxiety that’s been somewhat fueled by my desire to crank out that elusive 100 miler — something I really would like to get done by 2021 when I turn 40. That’s about 20-ish months away — which I think is doable, but I’m not sure if it is realistically smart to put that deadline on me?

But, that’s a post for another day.

As I look forward to the new year, I am optimistic of what I have in front of me. I am keeping my goals simple and really seeking out — fun. If there has been something missing the past couple of years from my running it’s been the focus on fun. Mainly, because I’ve been too focused on reaching goals that were getting harder and harder to reach. I really just need to inject more fun into my running.

How am I going to have more fun in 2020? Well, for one — I am keeping my goals simple, focusing on one goal race (a marathon) and finding a cross-training exercise or hobby each month to learn and tackle (ie — cycling, hiking, swimming, dancing, martial arts, etc.). Just something different and fun!

But, the goal for all of my goals is to make sure they support each other — and that I end 2020 much more happier, fulfilled and grateful than the past couple of years. Not, that they have completely sucked — they’ve just sucked fitness and running wise. And, I’m just tried of dealing with many of the same issues year in, year out.

So here is a look of my 2020 goals and schedule. Of course the schedule could change — and probably will — but, the focus is to at least do the Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon in September 2020. I’m toeing that start line and crossing the finish line!

I told you these goals were simple. But, I like that. I need that. Especially, right now. The number one goal is to run a marathon — it’ll have been four years since my last marathon once I do the Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon next year. That’s too long. I crave the long distance.

I injected a little fun in my goal mileage — yes — it’s in reference to 7 Eleven. That’s an average of 59.25 miles a month, which will be a good challenge. But, since I am marathon training beginning in May — I’ll get a bulk of those miles between May and September. That leaves me some more recovery months in the winter months. It’s a good goal

And, then the cross-training goal I mentioned above. I’m just going to find fitness things to train for, do, tackle, whatever — that sound fun to me. I have a few ideas on what I’d like to do, but I’m not going to plan that all out right now. I’ll give myself a leeway of at least a couple of months.

But, what do you think of my 2020 goals?

Run a marathon.

Run 711 miles.

Cross-train a new hobby/sport/interest each month.

I feel like these are good goals for me. They’re simple, they’re methodical and goals that will — or should — lead me to bigger goals for 2021. Which will hopefully lead me toward my 100 mile goal.

And, quite honestly, depending on how I feel with my marathon training, I’d really like to possibly tackle the St. George Marathon and Antelope Island 50K again — favorite races of mine. But, I really don’t want to get too ahead of myself.

Registered Races

Races I am registered and planning to do.

New Year’s Revolution Run; January 1, 2020

March Madness 10K; March 7, 2020

Canyonlands Half Marathon; March 14, 2020

Salt Lake City Half Marathon; April 18, 2020

Provo City 5K; May 2, 2020

Vigor Big Cottonwood Half Marathon; May 9, 2020

Utah Valley Half Marathon; June 6, 2020

Heber Half Run for Autism; June 27, 2020

Mt. Nebo Half Marathon; August 29, 2020

Pocatello Half Marathon; September 5, 2020

Planned Races

Races I am planning on doing, but not registered for yet.

Sweethearts 5K; February 8, 2020

Race for Grief 10K; May 25, 2020

Drop13 Big Cottonwood Half Marathon; June 13, 2020

Deseret News Half Marathon; July 24, 2020

Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon; September 12, 2020

The Haunted Half: Salt Lake City; October 24, 2020

The Haunted 5K: Provo; October 31, 2020

South Davis Turkey 10K; November 26, 2020

I am feeling good about my goals. I am feeling good about my race schedule. I have a marathon training plan as well — that I’ll share later. But, I feel that I am getting ahold of my health and fitness and really I feel like I am starting all over again with running — which has been more of a liberating feeling than anything.

So, yeah, that makes for a fun, challenging and hopefully — rewarding — 2020.

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Running 2020 Goals & Outlook was originally published on Life In The Slow Lane.

#2020 #5K race #half marathon #health #marathon #road running #running #running 2020 #running goals #trail running #wellness

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phatjosh180 · 5 years ago

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Yes, Lizz, you are a marathoner

At 2:38:30 PM the last runner crossed the finish line at the Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon — just under eight hours after the gun sounded near Guardsman’s Pass in Big Cottonwood Canyon to begin the race. The course took her down Guardsman Pass, around Brighton Loop, down Big Cottonwood Canyon and then along an out and back on Wasatch Boulevard before the last three miles along Fort Union Boulevard to the finish line at 1300 East. It was the same course the previous 1,072 runners took down the canyon toward the finish line.

But, this runner just happened to be the last one to finish it.

Surrounded by the remaining few volunteers, her friends and mother — this runner finished 7 hours and 53 minutes after the race clock started ticking.

The runner was my friend Lizz Ashby.

And, this was no easy task for her. Then again, marathons aren’t easy for anyone. On average a runner will dedicate themselves to 16-18 weeks of training with an average of 3-4 days spent running anywhere from three to 20+ miles — so they can confidently stand at that start line ready to tackle 26.2 miles.

Upon celebrating her completion, Lizz wore her finisher’s medal to work the following Monday, as she is accustomed of doing to show her kids her accomplishment. This hard earned medal wore heavy around her neck and still VERY sore body. She was proud of this accomplishment and was eager to show others that she was now a marathoner.

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This enthusiasm was doused as a co-worker doubted this accomplishment. The colleague asked if she could REALLY consider herself a marathoner if she was the last runner on the course — and took nearly eight hours to complete. Lizz froze. She didn’t know the answer. And, she began to doubt herself.

Was she a REAL marathoner? Was she a part of the exclusive club of only 1% of Americans that can claim to have completed a marathon? What if her co-worker was right? Where did she belong within the running community?

Lizz reached out to me to ask what I thought. I took barely a second thought — well, of course you are a marathoner. You put in the training, you tackled the distance and you did it. Does that not make you a marathoner?

The more I’ve thought about my response to Lizz and the conversation between her and her co-worker — there has been a lot more I wish I said to Lizz to help quell those doubts within her. I also wished to address it in a more public way, because I’m not sure the co-worker — who’s not a runner — fully understands the power she took away from Lizz’s hard earned accomplishment.

So I decided to write an open letter to Lizz, to put write my feelings down of what I know makes a marathoner.

Dear Lizz,

When you started running over two years ago — I know you had no aspirations in tackling 26.2 miles. Like you said many times to me — a mile was a large enough feat. Having met you in June 2017 at the luncheon I was speaking at — I saw a lost girl looking for a direction. Being obese, unhappy and riddled with anxiety — I saw a woman who had enough.

I’m glad the night before I scrapped my intended notes for that luncheon. I can’t remember exactly what they were, probably because it was a message that didn’t resonate. I instead talked about how my journey was much more than just about running or fitness — it was about EMBRACING life.

In the past couple of years since I shared that message with you — you’ve EMBRACED life. Life hasn’t been easy for you — living with anxiety and depression isn’t easy. I know. Seeing you stop making excuses for not embracing life and doing it has truly changed my perspective on how I view my own life. I thank you for that.

To be honest, when I challenged you to train for a 5K — I didn’t think that you would tackle a marathon. It’s not that I didn’t think you could do it, it’s just that I know how much physical, mental, emotional and spiritual fortitude is needed to tackle the distance. This speaks volumes of how far you’ve come the last couple of years now that you’ve completed the distance.

You’ve worked hard for the past four months working on this goal. You’ve had numerous early morning treadmill dates, numerous long distance training runs and of course the 22 miler you did a month ago to test yourself if you were TRULY ready to tackle the distance. The consistent training you have to put in to get yourself to the starting line is one of the many things I love about the marathon.

You put in the work, no one else did it, but you!

There is something magical about a first marathon. And, quite honestly, I miss the feeling. The doubts, the fears subside when the gun sounds, you cross the start line and you find yourself in the moment. There’s something so wonderful, so precious, so divine when you find yourself in the moment of doing something you prepared yourself to do — especially for the first time.

And, the euphoric feeling of crossing that finish line after battling those 26.2 miles — it’s heaven. Especially when you’re surrounded by family and friends. I can only imagine the feelings you felt as you crossed your finish line.

I can also only imagine how you felt when your co-worker almost took those feelings of joy and triumph from you. I can’t imagine the doubt you felt pre-race make its’ way back to you post-race. The thought angered and saddened me tremendously, because I know what the expectations of us “back of the packers” usually tend to be.

But, Lizz, I am going to say this once — and with as much conviction as I can muster … LIZZ, YOU ARE A MARATHONER!

It was you who put in the work. It was you showed up the gym to run. It was you who tackled the training runs. It was who showed up at the race. It was you who ran the course. It was you pushed through the wall. It was you who had to work through mid-race panic attacks. It was you who persevered.

But, more importantly — it was you who crossed the finish line. IT. WAS. YOU.

That’s what makes you a marathoner.

Please always remember that and take pride in it. Never shy away from talking about it with others, especially your “non-running” friends. They might not one day run a marathon like you had, but as I have learned years ago — running is a metaphor for life. If anything teach them how to EMBRACE it.

Sincerely, Josher

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Yes, Lizz, you are a marathoner was originally published on Life In The Slow Lane.

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phatjosh180 · 5 years ago

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RACE RECAP: Revel Big Cottonwood Half Marathon

Four months ago this was my goal race for 2019. I was registered to do the full marathon and was planning to train throughout the summer with the sole purpose and focus on doing another marathon. It’s been since February 2017 that I have tackled anything longer than a half marathon. I won’t rehash all of the reasons why — there were a lot of issues … ankle, back, health, etc., etc. You know, things that happen when you age.

It’s been a frustrating past couple of years to say the least. I’ve still accomplished a lot and had NUMEROUS awesome experiences during that time frame — but, it’s been hard accepting many of the changes and realities. I still feel like I should or need to be that same runner that is PRing a half marathon at 2:09 and tackling ultras. But, reality is teaching me something entirely different.

Anyways — in June I came down with a pretty nasty bout of bronchitis and walking pneumonia that just killed my marathon training. It wiped a solid three weeks of running from me. It set me back quite a bit and I knew a marathon was just not going to happen. So I decided to take my lumps and downgrade down to the half marathon.

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With my year of running pretty much a mess for me — physically, mentally and emotionally — I’ve really been focusing on just enjoying the run, the community and moment. I’ve let go of the pursuit of improvement, speed training and longer distances — for the moment. I need to really work on giving myself a good base of fitness going into 2020. You can read more about that here. I really don’t want to take much more space of my race report to cover all of that.

Honestly, if this was any other race I probably would have deferred or sold my bib because my half marathon base is weak. But, I needed to do this race — I love Revel. I love this course. And, I am a Legacy Runner (meaning I’ve done each race since it’s inaugural race in 2012) who really, really, really wants to also make it into their Ten Year Club in 2021. So, while I might not PR on the course (my fastest course time was 2:12 in 2013) I had to at least show up and finish.

So that was really the goal — to finish. But, not to just finish, but have a ridiculous amount of fun. Because, that was really needed more than anything my body could give me physically. I needed to have some fun and get some joy from my running — something that’s been hard to comeby lately.

Jill and her husband Mark came down from Boise to run the race as well. Mark registered for the marathon while Jill decided to run with me. Even though her pace is much faster than mine at the moment she’s been craving and needing a social run more than a PR as well. Especially since she doesn’t have the same supporting cast in Boise like she did when they lived here in Utah. So the race plan was simple — to run with Jill and have a ridiculous amount of fun. Easy enough race goal to follow, right?

The morning of the race was somewhat uneventful and routine of any canyon race. I did scare this kid who somehow got stuck in traffic that lead him to the runners’ parking lot. He thought it was a 4am sobriety check. I don’t think he was high or drunk — but, from his reaction I’m sure he had weed on his person. It sure gave me a laugh.

After catching one of the last buses up the canyon we had about 40-45 minutes until gun time — which I’m grateful because it was a tad bit nippy in the canyon. Once the gun sounded it took us about 12 minutes to finally cross the start line and we were off. It took me a couple miles to get the legs working because of a combination of the cold and lack of downhill training.

But, once Jill and I got to around mile three I was feeling pretty good. But, of course that’s subjective. Luckily we weren’t focused much on physical aspect of the race, because we were just having a blast. We ran into a number of friends as well, including our friend McKenzie from SUU. It was just a lot of fun.

Around miles 6-8 I was started to feel the hurt — which wasn’t surprising because my training has been mostly for 10Ks this year. I brought some applesauce and electrolytes with me to help me through the last half of the race because I knew it was going to be rough. Unfortunately, I lost my electrolytes at some point so I had to rely on Jill’s good graces who shared some of her pills with me. And, they dang well saved my life (half joking here).

But, as tough as that last half of the race was for me — I did my best to have fun. And, Jill and I did just that. We posed for pictures. And, we got some doozies. We tried doing the YCMA in a couple of them — to no avail. Our coordination was just of a bit. And, we were planning an epic finish line picture, but that didn’t end up happening because we got separated at Mile 11.

And, as much as I wanted to run the whole 13.1 miles with Jill, I was grateful for those last couple of miles I ran by myself. Since I didn’t have my music with me it was just me running to the sounds of the race, traffic and surrounding area. It was pretty therapeutic, because I couldn’t lose myself in a soundtrack, I just had my thoughts.

I thought a lot about this past couple of years and the struggles I’ve had with my health. I thought a lot about the struggles with my ankle, my back, my anxiety and my thyroid — all that have seemed to convolute to now. But, among that all, it wasn’t frustration or sadness that I felt — it was gratitude. I may not have been running my best or fastest race, but that didn’t matter — I was here. I was among friends and among a community that I love a lot.

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INTERESTING FACT: You’ll be disqualified from the race if they catch you peeing in the woods, but they won’t for flashing.

A post shared by Josher (@josherwalla) on Sep 15, 2019 at 1:07pm PDT

It was hard to not think about my journey and the people that have come with that — especially my friend Robert Merriman. He always comes to mind during each race. It was really a neat and touching moment to have these emotions run through my thoughts. It helped me process through everything I’ve been going through and put into perspective.

By mile 12.5 I just felt a peace of knowing that I’d be fine in the long run. That this time next year — as long as I did what I know I need to do — that I’d be back here at this race doing the full marathon. It was hard not to visualize that feeling and scene as I saw the finish line for this race. Even though I was a about 20 minutes slower than last year I was also grateful that I didn’t throw up all over the finish line like 2018. That alone was a win over last year.

I have three more planned races for 2019 — a 5K, 10K and half marathon. That might change? I am still not 100% on tackling another half marathon this year. It really depends on how I feel with my training and recovery this next month. I might also add another 5K or two because those are always fun.

There’s no pressure for overachieve or push myself too hard, because the focus for at least the next 3-4 months is simply to heal, recover and renew. But, as long as I can still surround myself with the amazing running community and great friends — I’ll be fine.

But, with that said — September 12, 2020 … marathon #12 is happening.

Previous Revel Big Cottonwood Half Marathon Times

2013 – September 14, 2013 (2:12:37) 2017 – September 9, 2017 (3:10:21) 2018 – September 8, 2018 (2:56:46) 2019 – September 14, 2019 (3:19:12)

My Next Five Races

The Haunted Half: SLC; October 19

The Haunted 5K: Provo; October 26

Turkey 10K; November 28

Revolution Run; January 1

Sweethearts 5K; February 8

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A post shared by Trails & Pavement (@trailsandpavement) on Jan 21, 2019 at 7:46pm PST

RACE RECAP: Revel Big Cottonwood Half Marathon was originally published on Life In The Slow Lane.

#2019 running #big cottonwood #Big Cottonwood Half Marathon #Fitness #half marathon #health #jill gabica #race 247 #utah

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phatjosh180 · 5 years ago

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This is 2020 ...

First off, if you don’t get the title of this blog post — I’m sorry, we can’t be friends. It just won’t work out. Secondly, it’s hard to believe that I am LEGITIMATELY planning for my 2020 running schedule. I swear it should still be 2000 and 2020 is still 20 years away. Where did the time go?

Well, for the past decade — running.

But, as I process this past year and the things that it was and wasn’t — I’ve really been focusing on what I want out of 2020. I still want a marathon journey — the one I was supposed to have this summer, but got savagely killed due to bronchitis and walking pneumonia. And, I still want to move forward and toward my 100 mile race goal. I’ve made a goal that I want to reach that before I turn 40 — so by August 15, 2021.

I am not anticipating to attempt it in 2020. Mainly because I don’t have that desire. I just really want/need/must have a marathon journey. I’m craving adventure and an accomplishment that will help erase the disappointments of the past couple of years.

Training schedule I’ll be following for the 2020 Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon. Notice that this is for 2019. This is basically an adapted version of Hal Higdon’s training plan.

I decided to make my marathon for 2020 the Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon — it was a pretty easy decision to be honest. It’s my favorite marathon down my favorite canyon by my favorite race company. Really, how do you walk (or run) away from that?

So, I’ll be working toward the marathon most of the summer via the same training plan I made for this year. It’ll be a 16 week training plan with plenty of training runs and races down canyons, etc. I am craving that. I am craving that now, but I also am smart enough to know I’m not quite there yet — though I’d love to be.

As I stare at the calendar for 2020, this is what I’ve scribbled up as a training/race schedule. I’m not including my midweek runs — just Saturday long runs (and, well, midweek races like DesNews and Revolution Run). Plus, I posted my mock training schedule above so that gives you an idea of what I’ll be running midweek.

Anywho, without further adieu …

January

01 – Revolution Run

February

08 – Sweethearts 5K

March

07 – March Madness 10K 14 – Canyonlands Half Marathon

April

04 – Emigration Canyon 10 Miler 18 – Salt Lake City Half Marathon

May

02 – Provo City 5K 09 – Vigor Big Cottonwood Half Marathon 16 – WEEK 01 (6 miles): Bonneville Shoreline Trail 23 – WEEK 02 (7 miles): Mueller Park Canyon 25 – Race for Grief 5K 30 – WEEK 03 (5 miles): Davis Boulevard

June

06 – WEEK 04 (9 miles): Bountiful Boulevard 13 – WEEK 05 (10 miles): Drop13 Big Cottonwood Half Marathon 20 – WEEK 06 (8 miles): Emigration Canyon 27 – WEEK 07 (13 miles): Heber Half Run for Autism

July

04 – WEEK 08 (12 miles): Midnight Treadmill Run 11 – WEEK 09 (10 miles): Big Cottonwood Canyon 18 – WEEK 10 (15 miles): Liberty Park 24 – WEEK 11 (16 miles): Deseret News Half Marathon

August

01 – WEEK 12 (12 miles): Liberty Park 08 – WEEK 13 (20 miles): Big Cottonwood Canyon 15 – WEEK 14 (12 miles): Run Elevated Half Marathon 22 – WEEK 15 (20 miles): Legacy Parkway Trail 29 – WEEK 16 (12 miles): Pocatello Half Marathon

September

05 – WEEK 17 (8 miles): Emigration Canyon 12 – WEEK 18: Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon

October

24 – The Haunted Half: Salt Lake City 31 – The Haunted 5K: Provo

November

26 – South Davis Turkey 10K

I feel good about this schedule — especially training schedule, because I really, really want to do another marathon. And, if I am going to do another marathon I really want it be one I know that I’ll enjoy. Now heaven help me going into 2020 to stay healthy and work hard to get where I’d like to be with my fitness.

Because, I want to take that next step toward doing a 100 miler.

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This is 2020 … was originally published on Life In The Slow Lane.

#10K #2020 #half marathon #marathon #running #running 2020

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phatjosh180 · 5 years ago

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RACE RECAP: Mt. Nebo Half

Okay, before I go any further I have to get this out of my system — NEBOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! Okay, that’s much better. This is one of my favorite races and has been over the past 5-6 years — it holds my half marathon PR of 2:09:25 which I hit in 2013. A time that seems eons ago if I’m being honest.

As much as I love this race — I was rather wish washy on whether or not I was going to do it. It was supposed to be one of my last long runs and tune ups before the Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon, but — yeah — that didn’t happen thanks to setbacks due to my back, ankle and a nice bout of bronchitis and walking pneumonia.

I’m not going to rehash a lot of those setbacks — because I’ve been working hard getting past them — and I’d much rather work forward then mettle in a mindset that won’t take me anywhere productive. It’s been a very inconsistent and difficult year that all I really want to do is get past it instead of keep poking it with a stick. But, of course that’s all easier said than done.

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A post shared by Josher 🏃🏻‍♂️🏋🏻‍♂️🥩 (@runfitketo) on Aug 25, 2019 at 10:35am PDT

I initially signed up for Nebo last year — almost immediately after last year’s race. Which isn’t very rare for me. But, back in June when I got knocked out for three weeks because of the bronchitis and walking pneumonia I purged a lot of my 2019 race schedule because the illness killed my marathon training. So I ended up transferring my Nebo bib to the Haunted Half in Salt Lake City instead.

And, then less than a week later I had a change of heart. So, I signed up for the race again. Because of course.

I did so knowing this would be my first half marathon in nearly four months. I did so knowing I wasn’t trained like I’d want to be. I did so knowing it was going to majorly suck. But, I also did it because I knew I needed to do it. If I was going to improve my running I knew it wasn’t going to be sitting on the sidelines waiting for it to happen. This felt like a good enough place to start.

I didn’t have a time goal mainly because I knew there would be a marathon behind me. So I just wanted to really just do my best, run and have fun. My friend Amanda, who’s getting ready to PR at the Revel Big Cottonwood Half Marathon, sacrificed her race to run with me — knowing it was going to be well below her pace. I was very grateful she was willing to do that for me because I won’t lie — I didn’t really want to do this race alone.

Then there’s the anxiety of knowing I was going to be over three hours on a race that holds my PR — at 2:09. As much as I try not to compare those times to now — how can you not? But, I’m not the same person or runner that I was six years ago and I need to come to terms with that somehow. Because it’s definitely easier said than done. Anyways, a lot of these frustrations and anxieties were swirling within me leading up to the race.

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A post shared by Josher (@josherwalla) on Aug 24, 2019 at 11:39am PDT

The lead up to the race during race week was a mixture of familiarity and anxiety. Usually my anxiety is tempered by familiarity. But, my race anxiety has been long gone for years it was hard to place my feelings of anxiety. Some of the anxiety was because I wasn’t where I wanted to be physically — I’m about 15-20lbs. above where I’d somewhat like to be (that’s all another story for another day thanks to med changes, etc.), my back is inconsistent and my ankle hates me on any given day.

Instead of driving down to Payson from Bountiful the morning of the race (about an hour drive) I journeyed down on Friday night and stayed in the Hutchings camper trailer. I was going to sleep on the grass, but I’m glad I didn’t because the sprinklers would have soaked me around 2am. Plus, I actually got decent sleep which helped ease a lot of the pre-race anxiety.

After the bus ride up the canyon we were off at 6:30am. I started running with both Amanda and Coach Blu. But, after about 3-4 miles Blu cruised down the canyon because he had to be somewhere by 10am. So that left me and Amanda the rest of the race to fartlek down the canyon. Which we very much did.

Well, it wasn’t so much a fartlek, because Amanda let me set the pace, but we did intervals of about three minutes running, 30 seconds walking. That changed about half way through the race to about three minutes running, one minute walking. As part of our game plan we’d also walk one mile of the race — which I chose mile 8-9 because it’s the one part of the race I hate the most. It’s hot, flat and sometimes smells like horse poop.

When Amanda and I were making a race plan my only goal I had — besides finishing the race — was to have fun. I’ll be honest, that’s kind of been my default game plan as of late. And, we had fun. We had a lot of fun chatting with new friends, the sweepers (who passed us — heyo!) and of course all of the aid stations. It’s always a party running with Amanda and she really helped keep me distracted throughout the race with her sense of humor, mom jokes and Hamilton soundtrack karaoke skills.

But, she also went all Biggest Loser on me and got into my head a bit. Especially during the stretches I’m sure she knew I was struggling. The one thing she said during the race that stuck with me the most was — let go of the brakes.

In downhill running the easiest way to run is to lean forward and just run. But, I was holding back. I was slowing myself down by leaning back and shuffling more than striding. As soon as she pointed this out to me it was easy for me see this too — and I knew better. I knew exactly what I was doing.

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So I really focused on letting go of the brakes for the rest of the race. I let the quads just do their thing. I might not have had the juice like I have had in the past — but, the motion felt familiar and more fluid. As I focused on my gait I started to really internalize what other breaks I needed to let go of, especially in my running.

I think I’ve been pumping the breaks a lot the past couple of years. There’s been a lot of hesitation here and there regarding my health — whether it’s been my thyroid, back and/or ankle. It’s been frustrating and I feel like I’ve been pumping the brakes for various reasons. But, what it really boils down to are doubts and fears.

I can’t tell you how much more apprehensive I’ve become to push my limits here or there because of my back. It really does a mental number of you, because you want to push yourself at a degree you know you can push yourself, but on the other hand, you don’t want to because you could lay yourself out for a week if you screw up your back again. It’s a crappy cycle of mental madness.

I can’t let those fears stop me. I know I can’t stop. If I stop the doubts, fears and health problems win. So why am I pumping the brakes? What am I afraid of? I know I’m not afraid of success. I know I’m not afraid of failure. I think what it really boils down to is afraid of losing a sport, lifestyle and community that has changed my life. That’s what I am afraid of losing.

But, I realized something while reflecting on this all during the race. I will definitely lose it all if I am too afraid to not take risk at all. If I risk nothing I gain nothing. And, I don’t want that. I don’t dream of winning races, I dream of growing old with this sport. That is why I must risk more than what my fears and doubts want me to risk.

Anyways — that’s a lot of deep and heavy thinking for a race report. But, that’s where my head and heart stayed for most of this race. It was a real gut check of my priorities, abilities and desires and I totally blame Amanda. She was the one who told me to let go of the breaks.

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A post shared by Josher (@josherwalla) on Aug 24, 2019 at 6:57pm PDT

Once we were out of the canyon the last mile or two were in the valley taking us toward the finish line at Payson Park. It got pretty ugly hot, especially since I was wearing a black running shirt. But, at the mile 12 aid station my friend Tiffany handed me an ice cold Diet Coke — it was truly the best Diet Coke I’ve ever had in my life. I may of guzzled it and had sea lion burps for a good half mile, but I still have no regrets. It hit the spot!

After making the final turn toward the finish line I had such a feeling of relief and gratitude. It was a tough race which I did in 3:22 hours — not my best time — but I didn’t care at all. I was done. I gave it everything. And, not only was I finished but after going through all that mental inventory for a good chunk of the race I felt recommitted to doing what I needed to do regardless of the hand dealt to me.

My legs were completely dead and that felt great. Not only was it a reminder of what I did, but a reminder of how much work that’s in front of me as well. And, that’s exciting me. I may never reach certain goals of mine, but I can sure as hell work hard toward them — and that’s what I need and want to do.

Past Mt. Nebo Half Times

2013 – 2:09:25 2014 – 2:18:45 2015 – 2:40:02 2017 – 3:02:55 2018 – 2:43:15 2019 – 3:22:44

My Next Five Races

Revel Big Cottonwood Half Marathon; September 14, 2019

The Haunted Half: SLC; October 19, 2019

The Haunted 5K: Provo; October 26, 2019

South Davis Turkey 10K; November 28, 2019

New Year’s Revolution Run; January 1, 2020

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A post shared by Trails & Pavement (@trailsandpavement) on Jan 21, 2019 at 7:46pm PST

RACE RECAP: Mt. Nebo Half was originally published on Life In The Slow Lane.

#2019 #goals #half marathon #running

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