#fightlikerobert

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Running Big for Robert

Running Big for Robert

This past week has been a tough one for me. I didn’t get in nearly enough miles, mainly because of illness among a few other things. But, I knew no matter how I felt I was going to do some miles on Saturday in honor of my friend Robert Merriman who’s battling brain cancer.

It’s been an emotional couple of weeks for the running community here in Utah that know and love Robert. He’s such a staple…

[phatjosh180]

Running BIG for Robert

This past week has been a tough one for me. I didn’t get in nearly enough miles, mainly because of illness among a few other things. But, I knew no matter how I felt I was going to do some miles on Saturday in honor of my friend Robert Merriman who’s battling brain cancer.

It’s been an emotional couple of weeks for the running community here in Utah that know and love Robert. He’s such a staple here on the road or trail. He’s a friend to all.

I met Robert first back in 2012 while running the Farmington Days Half Marathon. Our conversation was brief, but I remember him introducing himself and mentioned that he read my blog. We saw each other at a number of other races over the rest of the year and eventually connected over Facebook.

A post shared by 🔼That’s me. (@josherwalla) on Aug 5, 2017 at 8:34am PDT

You could say that after that — the rest was history. Over the next couple of years we were a part of a very close-knit group of runners. We all ran together, no matter the pace. Many times Robert would run ahead to take pictures of the group — or at times — if he wasn’t able to run with us, he’d still show up at some point of the run to take pictures of us.

I’ve grown to really respect Robert and look up to him in many aspect. His kindness toward others is second to none. He is one of the biggest reasons why I am training for my first 100 miler next February. Seeing Robert train and work toward gave me the hope and desire to try it too.

So when he was diagnosed with the cancer it was devastating — not just to me, but to our little group and the running community by and large. It’s been amazing seeing the community rally around him and support him and his family. Something we know he would do for any of us.

The weekend of his diagnosis and surgery it was awesome seeing so many runners wearing grey with red Canadian maple leafs at the Handcart Days and Deseret News Half Marathons. It continued with the Timp Half and the many other races that weekend as well. There were so many maple leafs worn during the Timp Half that many runners were asking why there were so many Canadians at the race.

A post shared by 🔼That’s me. (@josherwalla) on Aug 5, 2017 at 8:37am PDT

That should tell you how much this community really rallied around Robert.

So, this weekend’s group run brought out the grey and maple leafs once again as we flooded Big Cottonwood. There was another group running the canyon as well, so there was a lot of crossover, but lots of grey either way. It was pretty cool.

I wanted to run anywhere between 15-20 miles, but with my health still questionable — I deciding between more like 10-15 miles. I am not where I want to be with my fitness right now, but I’m getting there. Especially with my ankle doing much, much better. I am at the point right now I need to start looking at alternatives to a couple of my marathons if I feel like I can’t do them.

But, that’s a post for another day.

Anyways, I decided 10 miles was a good run for me — which I decided basically right as the car passed 10.0 on the pedometer. So, I hopped out of the car that was taking everyone else up further in the canyon and made my descent.

A post shared by (phat) josh (@fight4phat) on Aug 5, 2017 at 9:37pm PDT

When I run, I usually don’t go for pace — I go by feel. I’m very much a zen runner. Honestly, it’s been the only way I’ve been able to get through my injury and slowing pace. If I am going to run, I’m going for a fun time. If I am too worried about my pace — I tend to not have fun and feel like crap post run.

So, I just focus on feel. I focus on pushing myself just beyond comfort. And, as long I focus on that I’ll get faster and where I want to be. Does this mean I’ll never focus on pace again? No. It’s just my goals right now don’t need it and mentally it screws with me. I’ll get there again. But, for now — it’s all about effort.

Anyways, the run went well. I kept my effort just beyond that comfort. I focused on my form, especially on my right foot. My new shoes really help keep my over pronation honest, but I still need to mentally focus on it so I don’t lazily undo it.

My ankle was a little sore by mile 7-8, but nothing like it has in the past. Most of the soreness was actually from lateral movement down the canyon, which I expected. And, compared to my last run down Big Cottonwood I felt much better. Thank goodness.

A post shared by 🔼That’s me. (@josherwalla) on Aug 5, 2017 at 8:45am PDT

The run was gorgeous and I just focused on what I needed to while jamming out to my music. It was perfect. There were so many runners in the canyon that it really felt like a race. It was neat. There were at least three fairly large groups there. And, apparently some runners got stopped by others asking if there was a race.

It was the perfect morning for a run.

The last mile or so of my run I was able to run with my friend Lizz, who started three miles up the canyon and then walked down and then back up and down a couple times before running into me again. She did over 7-8 miles on a not very easy course. But, we haven’t had an opportunity to run much together so it I was happy to finish my run with her.

After being joined by Ruthie for the last bit of the run we all finished back at the Park n’ Ride and after a few pictures we left and parted for the rest of the day. As I mentioned above, it was the perfect morning for a run. And, a perfect day to run and honor our friend Robert.

The good news of this all is that he was sent home and is recovering really well. He should be a few weeks from being able to drive and do some light running (non-runners like to call it jogging). The fact that he’s been in amazing health has helped him a lot. And, I couldn’t be any happier for him and his family … he’s a fighter.

A post shared by (phat) josh (@fight4phat) on Aug 5, 2017 at 9:41pm PDT

Next week on August 17th — Robert’s Birthday — Costa Vida is holding a benefit night for Robert. As of right now, the Draper, American Fork and Payson stores will donate 20% of each order from 5pm to close to Robert’s family. There’s been a big interest from runners in other parts of Utah that they’re working on getting other stores involved in the benefit night.

But, if you would like to help Robert and his family while also enjoying an awesome meal from Costa Vida you can get more details about the night here. As I mentioned more stores will hopefully be added soon — and those will be posted there.

Anyways, we love you Robert! We’re praying for you! We’re running for you!

July 2017 Miles

Running Miles — 38.6 miles Race Miles — 39.3 miles Walking Miles — 116.38 miles TOTAL MILES — 194.28 miles Races in July — (3) The Hobbler Half, Handcart Days & DesNews Half.

August 2017 Miles

Running Miles — 13.5 miles Race Miles — 0.0 miles Walking Miles — 15.66 miles TOTAL MILES — 29.16 miles Races in August — (3) Elephant Rock Trail Half, Run Elevated Half and Nebo Half 

2017 Miles

Running Miles — 324.55 miles Race Miles — 282.42 miles Walking Miles — 795.81 miles TOTAL MILES — 1402.78 miles Races done in 2017 — (19) New Year’s Half Marathon, Sweethearts 5K, Jackpot Running Festival, SL Tri Club Indoor Half, March Madness Half, Lucky 13 Half Marathon, Emigration Canyon Half Marathon, Riverton Half, Saltair Half, Provo City Half Marathon, Jordan River Half Marathon, Drop13 Half Marathon, Bear Lake Trifecta — Idaho, Wyoming & Utah, AF Canyon Race Against Cancer, The Hobbler Half, Handcart Days Half and DesNews Half.

It was great seeing Robert Merriman tonight and sending the love of the Run4fun, Addict II Athlete, Run Your Race Pacers, Runtastic Events and the running families on both road & trail. This is a special man, a true warrior and an even greater friend. Keep fighting my friend! We love you! #FightLikeRobert

A post shared by 🔼That’s me. (@josherwalla) on Jul 31, 2017 at 7:37pm PDT

I kinda want to know what constitutes EXCESSIVE speed?

A post shared by 🔼That’s me. (@josherwalla) on Jul 28, 2017 at 11:47pm PDT

Shopping for the morning after the apocalypse.

A post shared by 🔼That’s me. (@josherwalla) on Aug 4, 2017 at 9:02pm PDT

He looks as beautiful as Stevie Wonder plays, and plays as well as Stevie Wonder sees.

A post shared by 🔼That’s me. (@josherwalla) on Aug 5, 2017 at 3:06pm PDT

If anyone wants to see Old Faithful, but doesn’t want to make the trip to Yellowstone, stop by our house between 6:30-7:30 every morning for a great show! Your kids won’t even know the difference.

A post shared by 🔼That’s me. (@josherwalla) on Jul 26, 2017 at 6:27am PDT

I must be in Utah County.

A post shared by 🔼That’s me. (@josherwalla) on Jul 29, 2017 at 8:15pm PDT

A post shared by The Runcast (@theruncast) on Jul 28, 2016 at 6:39am PDT

Running BIG for Robert was originally published on PhatJosh | My Life Running.

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RACE #155: Deseret News Half Marathon

RACE #155: Deseret News Half Marathon

After racing on Saturday at the Handcart Days Half Marathon, I wasn’t sure what to expect on Monday for this race. Especially since I haven’t done much back to back long runs — outside of the Bear Lake Trifecta.

Plus, with my ankle lately, I just haven’t had many feel good successful runs. It’s been frustrating because about 6-7 miles into a run my ankle starts screaming. I’ve been going to…

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RACE #155: Deseret News Half Marathon

After racing on Saturday at the Handcart Days Half Marathon, I wasn’t sure what to expect on Monday for this race. Especially since I haven’t done much back to back long runs — outside of the Bear Lake Trifecta.

Plus, with my ankle lately, I just haven’t had many feel good successful runs. It’s been frustrating because about 6-7 miles into a run my ankle starts screaming. I’ve been going to Physical Therapy and doing daily exercises/stretches that have been helping some, but the biggest thing my doctor suggested was new runners. Specifically ones for overpronation.

A post shared by 🔼That’s me. (@josherwalla) on Jul 24, 2017 at 12:24pm PDT

Now, I’m not going to get into all of that, but basically — I’m an overpronator which was not only the likely cause of the sprain, but why it wasn’t healing properly as well. Meaning, the overpronation didn’t give my ankle the time or structure it needed to heal. Truly a vicious cycle.

On Saturday after my race I bought some new runners, the Saucony Omni 15 to be specific. I debated whether or not I should break them out for this race, but after about two minutes I threw caution to the wind and decided to lace them up.

And, boy, was I glad I did!

A post shared by (phat) josh (@fight4phat) on Jul 25, 2017 at 6:29am PDT

Ironically, the race started in the canyon (and about 100 yards down the road) where I first sprained the ankle in April. I’d be lying if I said that wasn’t on my mind. My two goals for the race were to sub-three and not sprain my ankle. I love Emigration Canyon, but it’s road condition isn’t the best — so it’s a real concern.

After hanging out for about an hour at the starting line the race started at 6am. As soon as I went out the chute I felt the heaviness of my legs. From past experiences I knew the first three miles were going to be spent basically loosening up — so I didn’t push TOO hard, especially know I’d need my energy for that later.

Once I was loosened up, I was surprised how well I felt. But, more than that — how well my ankle felt. I still felt it’s tenderness, but it wasn’t screaming at me. I knew the test would be in a few more miles, especially when I got down to the home stretch. But, I felt very optimistic with how I was feeling.

A post shared by 🔼That’s me. (@josherwalla) on Jul 24, 2017 at 12:34pm PDT

With the ankle feeling rather neutral, I wanted to push myself a bit and between miles 5-8 I kept pushing myself. The ankle was holding up, especially after miles 6-7 where it usually starts cursing at me. So, I kept pushing.

I probably pushed a bit too hard, especially coming off a race on Saturday. But, I also haven’t been speed training much with the injury so my fitness level wasn’t where I’d like it to normally be. The only way to get back there is by … pushing and challenging yourself, so that’s what I did.

Once I got out of the canyon I was still feeling really good. This just encouraged me even more to keep going. It also helped seeing a lot of familiar friendly faces at the aid stations and on the course. It felt like a party.

A post shared by 🔼That’s me. (@josherwalla) on Jul 24, 2017 at 1:59pm PDT

I knew the last five miles were going to be tough, especially around Mile 9 on 1300 East. It’s the slightest of hills, but after running Emigration Canyon and Foothill Blvd. it feels like a freaking mountain. Especially when you pass the 7 Eleven there on 13th. It was at this point that I wished I brought my monies for a Slurpee.

Bad planning on my part.

But, the last four miles were much better than I expected. It helped that I knew what to expect toward the finish line, but I was most encouraged by how my ankle felt. It felt GOOD. Not great, but good! I felt the improvement and might have made somewhat emotional around Mile 10. I will neither confirm nor deny that.

A post shared by 🔼That’s me. (@josherwalla) on Jul 24, 2017 at 2:04pm PDT

But, the last three miles were good. They’re the fun miles of this race, that’s when you starting running toward the parade route. I smiled at the Mile 10 aid station that was staffed by a bunch of LDS missionaries. You want to talk about a happy bunch of volunteers.

After turning onto the parade route I turned off my music and just listened to the crowd. I love doing this. I heard my name yelled out a couple of times, but a lot of random strangers just cheering me on. I loved it.

Once I approached the finish line I noticed I got that sub-three hour time — 2:52:36 to be exact. But, before I could celebrate the accomplishment I was greeted by Wan who not only put my medal around my neck gave me one of his trademark hugs. Of all the people I could ask to hand me my medal — I couldn’t have asked for anyone more perfect than Wan.

A post shared by (phat) josh (@fight4phat) on Jul 25, 2017 at 6:46am PDT

After gathering myself I just crashed with a couple water bottles in tow and just socialized for a while. By this time my body was feeling it. Luckily, not my ankle. Just my quads and everything else that didn’t want me running 48 hours after the last half.

But, after shuttling it back to the buses with Andrea and Dith, I made the slow drive home — with a detour to the 7 Eleven of course. I was dead, but at the same time I felt such a great sense of satisfaction for meeting my goal. Not to mention how grateful I felt that my ankle felt so great.

It’s a feeling that’s been a long time waiting.

And, I’ll take it.

MY NEXT THREE RACES

July 2017 Miles

Running Miles — 31.1 miles Race Miles — 39.3 miles Walking Miles — 85.63 miles TOTAL MILES — 156.03 miles Races in July — The Hobbler Half, Handcart Days & DesNews Half.

2017 Miles

Running Miles — 303.55 miles Race Miles — 282.42 miles Walking Miles — 749.4 miles TOTAL MILES — 1335.37 miles Races done in 2017 — New Year’s Half Marathon, Sweethearts 5K, Jackpot Running Festival, SL Tri Club Indoor Half, March Madness Half, Lucky 13 Half Marathon, Emigration Canyon Half Marathon, Riverton Half, Saltair Half, Provo City Half Marathon, Jordan River Half Marathon, Drop13 Half Marathon, Bear Lake Trifecta — Idaho, Wyoming & Utah, AF Canyon Race Against Cancer and The Hobbler Half.

A post shared by The Runcast (@theruncast) on May 11, 2016 at 4:50pm PDT

RACE #155: Deseret News Half Marathon was originally published on PhatJosh | My Life Running.

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The Joshbys 2017: Friends & Family Winners

** EDIT: I thought I pushed PUBLISH a couple of days ago. I did not. So here you are. **

I have been doing The Joshbys now for 12 years. I laugh that this has lasted this long, because — I started it as a tongue in cheek way of labeling my favorite siblings. But, I get asked about it every year around November and December. Especially when a friend felt slighted from the previous year.

But, as the years have gone by the meaning has changed — slightly. Sure, there’s still a tongue in cheekness to it, but really this is a way for me to acknowledge the people in my life — family and friends. I grew up with the belief that you show gratitude for the people in your life and celebrate them often. That’s really what The Joshbys are about. And, that’s what they’ll always be about.

Anyways, earlier this week, I released the list of nominees for the family and friends category, and now here are the winners.

So without any further adieu, the winners …

Friend Category 2017

Best Friend of the YearDavid Stuart Dave is the friend of all friends. He’s always willing to hang out, go get food or even run to Walmart on a Friday or Saturday night. You won’t find a friend as loyal, understanding and encouraging as Dave. 

New Friend of the YearLizzi Ashby Lizzi has reminded me of the importance to fight for what you want in life, and the need to constantly challenge the limits of your comfort zone. I have become a better person because of her example and friendship.

Inspiring Friend of the YearRobert Merriman I have known Robert for over 3-4 years now and you seriously can’t find a better, kinder friend than him. He is right there encouraging and helping others along life or the trails. With his current fight with cancer his example of courage, fearlessness and faith has been inspiring to those know and love him. Keep fighting Robert! #FightLikeRobert

Cyber Friend of the Year Spencer Myers There are many times I sit at my computer and just laugh out loud from the exchanges me and Spencer have on social media. He’s a genuinely funny guy. Everyone should follow him.

Running Friend of the YearZack Winters I have had some awesome adventures with Zack — whether it was finishing the AF Canyon Run Against Cancer, beasting through the Tmp Elk Run or running The Haunted Half — I’ve been truly inspired by Zack. He’s a great kid with great ambitions and goals. I see so much of myself in him and can’t wait to see where he goes in life.

New Running Friend of the YearRussell Hutchings I am in awe of Russell and his passion to run. Not just for pure records and PRs, but with his dad and the AIIA team. This kid has a heart of gold and is always looking for ways to serve others. I can’t wait to see him tackle Squaw Peak 50 in 2018 along with the many other goals he has set out. Keep it Little Man!

Out of State FriendJill Gabica I sadly give Jill this award. Last year she wasn’t even eligible. But, after moving to Boise in June my weekend running buddy is gone. We still had many awesome adventures — namely Jackpot — and we have many more planned in 2018 — again, mainly Jackpot (possibly others). I’ve always valued and cherished Jill’s friendship — from Chuck to now.

Friend Mom of the YearAmanda Bjarnson Um, Amanda is a total badass (it’s true, I gave her a Joshby for it). She ran pregnant pretty much right up to the time she popped. And, she’s already itching to get back out there. I have the utmost respect to not just pregnant runners, but mother runners — how they balance their running with a family amazes me. It also really reiterates the fact that guys would make horrible mothers.

Friend Dad of the YearBlu Robinson Ever since I met Blu back in 2015 I have looked up to him not just as a friend, but especially a dad. His frankness, sensibility, insight and sense of humor is something I hope I can pull off when I become a Dad someday.

Friend Kid of the YearMiles Bjarnson This wasn’t very hard, I practically named this kid. I just hope Amanda knows that when I have a kid, one of them will be using this name as well (my wife won’t have a choice in the matter). May I suggest Fartlek for their next child?

Friend Couple of the YearBlu & Marissa Robinson This was a very difficult category for the committee to award, because there are so many great couples deserving of this award. But, this is very deserving to the Robinsons. Not only is Blu deserving of Dad of the Year, but — and, I am sure Blu would echo this — he wouldn’t be deserving of that without Marissa. Not only are the Robinsons a great couple and team for their family, but the community around them as well with Addict II Athlete and their work. I am a better person because of their dedication to each other and the team.

And, here is the family category …

Family Category 2017

Family Member of the YearTatum Rex Snow Minson This was a difficult category, but the award once again goes to Tatum. How can it not when the kid is always excited to see me with an enthusiastic “WALLA!” yell? That can’t be beat. I love this kid. He makes me smile and my day better every time I see him.

New Member of the Year Eliza R. Stallings Sure, she was the only one eligible in this category, but she would have won it anyways. This kid is cute and her personality keeps getting bigger and bigger. I will always remember getting news of her birth. I just DNF’d my first race and as I was heading back to my car I turned on my phone and got numerous texts and pictures announcing her birth. She redeemed what could have easily been a horrible day.

Family Baby of the Year Tatum Rex Snow Minson As mentioned above, this kid has my heart. All of my nieces and nephews do, but we’ve had a special bond since he was born not yet two years ago. His loving, caring and funny personality is ever endearing and makes me excited to be a dad one day.

Family Kid of the Year Maya Faith Hansen It’s hard to believe that this kid is 9 years old. I remember the day she was born. I made the trip along with my mom to Seattle and waited all night in a small hospital waiting room watching Elmo movies. Fast forward 9 years later this kid has grown into a smart, sweet and goal orientated young woman who loves running and has done a couple 5K races with me. Something we’re planning on doing again this year.

Cousin of the YearMariathy Valavanis The best part of my 15 day trip to Europe was meeting my family in Greece after years of online correspondence. I couldn’t have asked for a better trip being able to meet my family, especially my cousin Mariathy. I loved the time our family was able to spend with her and my other cousins and it was much harder to leave, but I promised her that I will come back to run the Athens Marathon with her soon-to-be husband in 2019! 

Family Mother of the YearJessica Stallings After many years waiting to become a mother, that reality came to fruition this year with Eliza’s birth. Jess is such a great mother and I love seeing Jess in the role she’s yearned for, for years. I am beyond happy for her and Scott. 

Family Father of the YearScott Stallings Just like Jess, Scott has waited years for this role. And, Scott is such a great dad to Eliza. I love watching his social media feed of him and Eliza — it’s no wonder she’s a happy kid. Scott is very deserving of this award.

Sibling of the YearJenny Minson I have a special bond with each of my siblings. But, this past year I have really bonded with Jenny — it helps she mothers Tatum. But, Jenny has one of the biggest hearts and takes after my Mom in that regard. She has been a great example to me on doing the right thing when the moment arises.

Sibling In-Law of the YearKelli Hansen I get along with my in-laws, but Kelli and I just have a very special bond. Being practically the same age helps a lot, but we really bonded during our European vacation. I am excited for Kelli and Ben and what 2018 will bring them and our family. 

Congratulations to all the winners of The Joshby Awards. Again, this is really a celebration about YOU and the impact you’ve made in my life. I feel so blessed and lucky to have so many amazing people in my life.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Here’s to a great 2018!

The Joshbys 2017: Friends & Family Winners was originally published on PhatJosh | My Life Running.