Sunday, September 26, 2021
Berlin Marathon 2021
Saturday, May 23, 2020
1986 Star Track V State High School Class AAA Track Championships - 4 x 100 DUAL
1986 Star Track V State High School Class AAA Track Championships - 4 x 100 DUAL
PRELUDE – NIGHT MOVES AGAINST THE WIND
The soundtrack for today’s run consisted of only two Bob
Seger songs, “Against the Wind” and “Night Moves”. I utilize a method to learn both the guitar
and words of a song. The repetition
helps me understand the beat and delve deep into the lyrics. I found this evening’s run conjure up
memories of unbelievable speed and youth.
SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY, BUT IT WAS LONG AGO
On the way to the Washington State Meet our team crushed the 4x100 records for the West Central Districts and our North Puget Sound League Championship. We lowered the John F Kennedy school record from 43.5 from the late 70s to 42 flat. We had one thing left to prove.
My day started with great expectation and my breakfast ritual, English muffin with hot tea. The meet opened at before noon in Tacoma with our preliminary heat starting at 2PM. I would still need to attend morning classes and be excused by 8AM. Before trekking to Tacoma, I needed to pickup my letterman jacket. At the time my lovely girlfriend wore it during the year. Unfortunately, being in another city and the inability to drive, she was unable to watch the event. I stopped by her English class to retrieve it. My Track Coach (Mr. Danforth) coincidently taught her class. I knocked then entered, “Coach, I need to get something from a student.” With a nod and “Hurry-up Delasalas,” I strolled to the back. She took the jacket off and handed it to me. I gave her a warm kiss, “Wish me luck?” She replied with a smile. I was ready to go.
AND WE’D STEAL AWAY EVERY CHANCE WE COULD.
LINCOLN STADIUM – Star Track 1986
A year prior, I attended as a spectator. I watched in amazement of the speed, concentration and will of all athletes. As a Sophomore underclassman, I earned a varsity letter. However, to compete at a State Championship was unfathomable. This day not only would I be a participant, my team had the best shot in beating a defending champion.
I arrived to a hot track, great conditions for a sprinter and fast racing. The first event (100 meter dash) started at 11:45. Three of my fellow sprinting teammates qualified for the race. Senior Bruce Harris, a bulk of a man with huge muscle mass built for football. Junior Michael Wright, a fellow classmate and accomplished three-sport Athlete. And, Sophomore Norman Golla, a slender framed sprinter whose results backed-up his cockiness. Three heats determined who would qualify for the evening’s final. All three of my teammates earned spots for the final.
A bit nervous, Coach Danforth settled us down with comical remarks. He sensed a bit of my anxiety and joked, “Delasalas you should be relaxed after making out with your girlfriend in the back of my classroom.” I replied with a red-faced grin. He laughed.
BREAKING ALL THE RULES THAT WOULD BEND
As 2:00PM rolled around, our relay would show case our combined speed. However, we would need to wait until heat two. Our main rival Garfield HS (and defending titleholder) took the first heat in a blistering 41.8 seconds. Our boys look at each other in semi-disbelief over their run. However, it was our moment next. We gathered for our ritual moment of unity then headed to our corners. Michael took the first leg, I took the second leg straight-away, Mike Kunst (Senior) took third corner leg and Norman anchored the final stretch. The Garfield time did not deter us. We concentrated on getting to the final.
Michael bolted making quick work runners outside his stagger. Once he hit my tapped mark it was time for me to rev and roll. I took the baton already ahead of the outside lanes. Approaching Mike Kunst’s semi-grin, I knew we were very much in the lead. He took the baton, and, in a flash, railed the curve to pass the stick to Norman who easily finished first with a time of 41.9sec. Another school-record. Though the time was not ahead of Garfield, it was close enough to provide great confidence heading into the evening.
The lull of the afternoon gave us time to eat and relax in a mall near the track meet. My teammates maintained a sense calm. Three of them would compete for the same individual 100-meter dash championship. We headed back to the track an hour before their race. Each of them had their ritual but as a team we stretched together.
LET THE COWBOYS RIDE
At 7PM, their time came. All eight lanes occupied with the fastest high school boys in the state. My vantage point was close to the half mark about halfway up the bleachers. Runners in their blocks, then a pause and finally the explosion. The sprinters bolted. By the time the sprinters reached my point, a clear winner was evident. Unfortunately, it was none of my teammates. Norman was immediately behind. Bruce and Michael were even to each other but behind the four of the runners. The winner was from Jon Gary from Garfield. The man I would line up against in the second leg of the upcoming relay.
The 4x100 Relay Final fired at 9PM. Michael and Norman were warmed up from completing their individual 100’s. Mike and I stretched. At 6’3”, Mike towered over me. However, we kept a stretching routine to mentally prepare. We maintained a calm, but we could feel a tenseness in the anticipation of the biggest race of our lives.
Mike and I met with Michael and Norman at the endzone nearest to the start line. We circled arm over each shoulder with each right hand on the baton raising it up like Luke Skywalker raising his lightsaber. This would soon be our moment. Mike our Senior classman spoke the last words before the race, simply, “Let’s Go”. With that we headed to our corners.
WATCH THE YOUNG MAN RUN
As we lined up in our lanes, Our team took lane 5 (“The Rabbit” lane) for earning the 2nd fastest time of the afternoon heats. However, Garfield was awarded lane 4 (“The Hunter’s” lane) for taking the fastest time. The Garfield lineup comprised an All-State lineup. Junior Jay Lofton took 1st leg, Junior Jon Gary (recently crowned 100M & 200M State Champion) on 2nd leg, Senior Clyde Duncan (3rd place State 200M) on 3rd leg, and anchored by Mark Phillips (State record holder 300M IM Hurdles, 110M High Hurdles Champion). On paper invincible. However, we met Garfield in the April Highline Relay Invitationals shocking them by being side by side at the finish. Barley losing by only a step. This time they knew who we were and how fast we became.
I marked off my take off steps in anticipation of Michaels speed and baton pass. Prior to the gun sounding, I set up my stance and I looked over my left shoulder. Lane 5 is slightly ahead of lane 4. There was Jon Gary, the fastest high school track athlete in the state in the Hunter’s lane. I knew well that I did not have the matching speed, but, if he was going to beat my leg, he was going to earn it.
I FELT THE LIGHTENING AND WAITED ON THE THUNDER
The gun sounded, Michael was a step ahead of the Garfield Senior. Once he reached my set mark, I took off. My arm flipped back and hand in a V-shape ready to take the baton. Michael placed the baton in the web between my thumb and index, “Perfect Pass”. It was my turn, I churned hard. I made up staggers on lane 6, 7, and 8. I was flying! My joy was short lived. First hearing the steps, then the flash in the corner of my left eye, the lead Michael bestowed vanished. The 100M State Champion bolted past me in a helpless instant. Upon reaching Mike, the Garfield sprinter made up the stagger and gave his team a 5-meter lead.
It was uncommon for the times, but I yelled at Mike in the loudest scream, “GO MIKE, GO!!!!” In those days, quite transitions were the norm. Yet, after our last hand-off ever (and our best), I cheered Mike, trying to will him to go faster. Mike tried to pull back the ground I lost the team, even taking a step from Garfield’s 3rd leg. But as he passed off to Norman, Garfield’s anchor already received the baton several steps ahead of us. Norman valiantly tried to keep pace, Mark Phillips would not be denied his 3rd State Title of the meet.
I WOKED UP LAST NIGHT TO THE SOUND OF THUNDER. HOW FAR OFF I WONDERED
The Garfield relay team destroyed the state record with an electronic time of 41.34 (besting the old mark by .4 secs). For our efforts, we took second place only a few steps behind earning a new school record and the 3rd fastest time in Washington State history at 41.73. Wilson high school took a distant 3rd place, ½ a second from our time.
Our team gathered at the finish line. Grouped together, we shared our disappointment and headed back to the stands to a jubilant coaching staff who were all smiles. Though we didn’t know it, we pushed another team to a record to that still stands 34 years later. We dressed in our uniform warm-ups to receive our awards. We stood one step below the champions. Our faces solemn, it was hard to be happy though much was accomplished. A championship so close.
AIN’T IF FUNNY HOW THE NIGHT MOVES
Mike and I drove to the hotel Norman’s father set-up for the race-weekend. Hanging out for a moment, we asked Mr. Golla for two of his cigarettes. Mike and I headed to the parking lot to recap the race. As we sat smoking, we didn’t want to cry. This was Mike’s last race but I sensed relief that his journey was complete. I had one more year to try again. Mike’s work was done. No more hard intervals and track workouts. He knew he gave his best and he seemed proud knowing he left with a school record. I left him with a half hug and "Rocky-Apollo Creed" hand grip. I would be in his place next year.
I drove back home to make my first call to my girlfriend. Before I could utter a word, she said she saw the results on the local sports news. She was happy but knew I was disappointed. Her comfort over the phone help me cope. I need her soft supporting voice. WISH I DIDN’T KNOW NOW, WHAT I DIDN’T KNOW THEN.
THOSE DRIFTER’S DAYS ARE PAST ME NOW.
My run tonight (34 years later) differed from the all-out speed of a 17 year old. My evening ended into a heavy wind during the last loop. Storm clouds descending upon me filling the evening with darkness. My night moves became difficult against the wind drenching me in rainwater in my already sweat soaked attire. My soundtrack played Seger multiple times into a poetic moment of remembrance and reality. I still cherish that 1986 moment (maybe too much). In the end, I’M OLDER NOW BUT STILL RUNNING AGAINST THE WIND.
1986 Program
https://www.tacomasportsmuseum.com/track-field-programs/
1986 4x100 Heat Assignments
https://issuu.com/tacomasportsmuseum/docs/2004.37.16/22
1987 4x100 Results for 1986
https://issuu.com/tacomasportsmuseum/docs/2004.37.13/22
PRELUDE – NIGHT MOVES AGAINST THE WIND
SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY, BUT IT WAS LONG AGO
On the way to the Washington State Meet our team crushed the 4x100 records for the West Central Districts and our North Puget Sound League Championship. We lowered the John F Kennedy school record from 43.5 from the late 70s to 42 flat. We had one thing left to prove.
My day started with great expectation and my breakfast ritual, English muffin with hot tea. The meet opened at before noon in Tacoma with our preliminary heat starting at 2PM. I would still need to attend morning classes and be excused by 8AM. Before trekking to Tacoma, I needed to pickup my letterman jacket. At the time my lovely girlfriend wore it during the year. Unfortunately, being in another city and the inability to drive, she was unable to watch the event. I stopped by her English class to retrieve it. My Track Coach (Mr. Danforth) coincidently taught her class. I knocked then entered, “Coach, I need to get something from a student.” With a nod and “Hurry-up Delasalas,” I strolled to the back. She took the jacket off and handed it to me. I gave her a warm kiss, “Wish me luck?” She replied with a smile. I was ready to go.
AND WE’D STEAL AWAY EVERY CHANCE WE COULD.
LINCOLN STADIUM – Star Track 1986
A year prior, I attended as a spectator. I watched in amazement of the speed, concentration and will of all athletes. As a Sophomore underclassman, I earned a varsity letter. However, to compete at a State Championship was unfathomable. This day not only would I be a participant, my team had the best shot in beating a defending champion.
I arrived to a hot track, great conditions for a sprinter and fast racing. The first event (100 meter dash) started at 11:45. Three of my fellow sprinting teammates qualified for the race. Senior Bruce Harris, a bulk of a man with huge muscle mass built for football. Junior Michael Wright, a fellow classmate and accomplished three-sport Athlete. And, Sophomore Norman Golla, a slender framed sprinter whose results backed-up his cockiness. Three heats determined who would qualify for the evening’s final. All three of my teammates earned spots for the final.
A bit nervous, Coach Danforth settled us down with comical remarks. He sensed a bit of my anxiety and joked, “Delasalas you should be relaxed after making out with your girlfriend in the back of my classroom.” I replied with a red-faced grin. He laughed.
BREAKING ALL THE RULES THAT WOULD BEND
As 2:00PM rolled around, our relay would show case our combined speed. However, we would need to wait until heat two. Our main rival Garfield HS (and defending titleholder) took the first heat in a blistering 41.8 seconds. Our boys look at each other in semi-disbelief over their run. However, it was our moment next. We gathered for our ritual moment of unity then headed to our corners. Michael took the first leg, I took the second leg straight-away, Mike Kunst (Senior) took third corner leg and Norman anchored the final stretch. The Garfield time did not deter us. We concentrated on getting to the final.
Michael bolted making quick work runners outside his stagger. Once he hit my tapped mark it was time for me to rev and roll. I took the baton already ahead of the outside lanes. Approaching Mike Kunst’s semi-grin, I knew we were very much in the lead. He took the baton, and, in a flash, railed the curve to pass the stick to Norman who easily finished first with a time of 41.9sec. Another school-record. Though the time was not ahead of Garfield, it was close enough to provide great confidence heading into the evening.
The lull of the afternoon gave us time to eat and relax in a mall near the track meet. My teammates maintained a sense calm. Three of them would compete for the same individual 100-meter dash championship. We headed back to the track an hour before their race. Each of them had their ritual but as a team we stretched together.
At 7PM, their time came. All eight lanes occupied with the fastest high school boys in the state. My vantage point was close to the half mark about halfway up the bleachers. Runners in their blocks, then a pause and finally the explosion. The sprinters bolted. By the time the sprinters reached my point, a clear winner was evident. Unfortunately, it was none of my teammates. Norman was immediately behind. Bruce and Michael were even to each other but behind the four of the runners. The winner was from Jon Gary from Garfield. The man I would line up against in the second leg of the upcoming relay.
The 4x100 Relay Final fired at 9PM. Michael and Norman were warmed up from completing their individual 100’s. Mike and I stretched. At 6’3”, Mike towered over me. However, we kept a stretching routine to mentally prepare. We maintained a calm, but we could feel a tenseness in the anticipation of the biggest race of our lives.
Mike and I met with Michael and Norman at the endzone nearest to the start line. We circled arm over each shoulder with each right hand on the baton raising it up like Luke Skywalker raising his lightsaber. This would soon be our moment. Mike our Senior classman spoke the last words before the race, simply, “Let’s Go”. With that we headed to our corners.
WATCH THE YOUNG MAN RUN
As we lined up in our lanes, Our team took lane 5 (“The Rabbit” lane) for earning the 2nd fastest time of the afternoon heats. However, Garfield was awarded lane 4 (“The Hunter’s” lane) for taking the fastest time. The Garfield lineup comprised an All-State lineup. Junior Jay Lofton took 1st leg, Junior Jon Gary (recently crowned 100M & 200M State Champion) on 2nd leg, Senior Clyde Duncan (3rd place State 200M) on 3rd leg, and anchored by Mark Phillips (State record holder 300M IM Hurdles, 110M High Hurdles Champion). On paper invincible. However, we met Garfield in the April Highline Relay Invitationals shocking them by being side by side at the finish. Barley losing by only a step. This time they knew who we were and how fast we became.
I marked off my take off steps in anticipation of Michaels speed and baton pass. Prior to the gun sounding, I set up my stance and I looked over my left shoulder. Lane 5 is slightly ahead of lane 4. There was Jon Gary, the fastest high school track athlete in the state in the Hunter’s lane. I knew well that I did not have the matching speed, but, if he was going to beat my leg, he was going to earn it.
I FELT THE LIGHTENING AND WAITED ON THE THUNDER
The gun sounded, Michael was a step ahead of the Garfield Senior. Once he reached my set mark, I took off. My arm flipped back and hand in a V-shape ready to take the baton. Michael placed the baton in the web between my thumb and index, “Perfect Pass”. It was my turn, I churned hard. I made up staggers on lane 6, 7, and 8. I was flying! My joy was short lived. First hearing the steps, then the flash in the corner of my left eye, the lead Michael bestowed vanished. The 100M State Champion bolted past me in a helpless instant. Upon reaching Mike, the Garfield sprinter made up the stagger and gave his team a 5-meter lead.
It was uncommon for the times, but I yelled at Mike in the loudest scream, “GO MIKE, GO!!!!” In those days, quite transitions were the norm. Yet, after our last hand-off ever (and our best), I cheered Mike, trying to will him to go faster. Mike tried to pull back the ground I lost the team, even taking a step from Garfield’s 3rd leg. But as he passed off to Norman, Garfield’s anchor already received the baton several steps ahead of us. Norman valiantly tried to keep pace, Mark Phillips would not be denied his 3rd State Title of the meet.
I WOKED UP LAST NIGHT TO THE SOUND OF THUNDER. HOW FAR OFF I WONDERED
The Garfield relay team destroyed the state record with an electronic time of 41.34 (besting the old mark by .4 secs). For our efforts, we took second place only a few steps behind earning a new school record and the 3rd fastest time in Washington State history at 41.73. Wilson high school took a distant 3rd place, ½ a second from our time.
Our team gathered at the finish line. Grouped together, we shared our disappointment and headed back to the stands to a jubilant coaching staff who were all smiles. Though we didn’t know it, we pushed another team to a record to that still stands 34 years later. We dressed in our uniform warm-ups to receive our awards. We stood one step below the champions. Our faces solemn, it was hard to be happy though much was accomplished. A championship so close.
AIN’T IF FUNNY HOW THE NIGHT MOVES
Mike and I drove to the hotel Norman’s father set-up for the race-weekend. Hanging out for a moment, we asked Mr. Golla for two of his cigarettes. Mike and I headed to the parking lot to recap the race. As we sat smoking, we didn’t want to cry. This was Mike’s last race but I sensed relief that his journey was complete. I had one more year to try again. Mike’s work was done. No more hard intervals and track workouts. He knew he gave his best and he seemed proud knowing he left with a school record. I left him with a half hug and "Rocky-Apollo Creed" hand grip. I would be in his place next year.
I drove back home to make my first call to my girlfriend. Before I could utter a word, she said she saw the results on the local sports news. She was happy but knew I was disappointed. Her comfort over the phone help me cope. I need her soft supporting voice. WISH I DIDN’T KNOW NOW, WHAT I DIDN’T KNOW THEN.
THOSE DRIFTER’S DAYS ARE PAST ME NOW.
My run tonight (34 years later) differed from the all-out speed of a 17 year old. My evening ended into a heavy wind during the last loop. Storm clouds descending upon me filling the evening with darkness. My night moves became difficult against the wind drenching me in rainwater in my already sweat soaked attire. My soundtrack played Seger multiple times into a poetic moment of remembrance and reality. I still cherish that 1986 moment (maybe too much). In the end, I’M OLDER NOW BUT STILL RUNNING AGAINST THE WIND.
1986 Program
https://www.tacomasportsmuseum.com/track-field-programs/
1986 4x100 Heat Assignments
https://issuu.com/tacomasportsmuseum/docs/2004.37.16/22
1987 4x100 Results for 1986
https://issuu.com/tacomasportsmuseum/docs/2004.37.13/22
Friday, May 8, 2020
Final HS Team Track Meet
This was a significant Friday for my HS Track. It was my Final Team Meet of my Senior year (May 8, 1987), 33years ago.
We ran a triple meet (Auburn, JFK, and a Kent school). My usual Sprinting/Relay Teammates were either occupied or unable to participate in any sprinting. That left me and my friend Makota Yoshida (Relay Alternate) as the only varsity experienced sprinters.
I ran fast enough to win the 100m (PR'd with 10.9sec) and won the 200m. In the 4x100, Coach Danforth told me to stay with the 2nd leg. Sophomore Rich Crotty took 1st leg, another Junior had 3rd leg and Makota (anchor). Rich ran very hard but the Kent and Auburn guys were just a bit faster. When the baton was passed to me there was a 10meter gap. I bolted hard towards the rival teams. I had never been this far behind since I dropped the baton Junior year (a race that we won). With a boost of adrenaline, I lasered-in and chewed them up like ghosts in PACMAN giving the team a 5meet lead. Unfortunately, leg 3 and Makota couldn't match the Auburn runners. Fortunately, we beat the Kent guys.
I remember that race and day because of the exhilaration to rip apart the 2nd leg. Coach D told me my split was 10.8sec. I didn’t think my short-stubby Filipino legs could roll that fast.
Meet points for placing were 5-First, 3-Second, and 1-Third. Since I won the 100m and 200m against two schools, I actually earned 20points. The next week Head Coach Ryan told me the I earned the NPSL Track Athlete of the Week because of that meet. It was my last team track meet before League, District and State meets.
Later that month, just 3 days after competing in State (6th place - 4x100), Coach Danforth presented me with the Coaches Award plaque at my Graduation. I'd like to think after 4 years I left in a brilliant blaze. I left that school leaving my heart on the track.
Today, I’m still enjoying the journey. From cold dreariness to hot days, I cherish each step. I enjoy the competition and the challenge of toeing the line against runners of all colors, ethnicities, and genders. We are Comets streaming a path to capture a moment. God How I Love it.
Wednesday, December 18, 2019
CHICAGO MARATHON by Romadel Delasalas
SHE’S MY RUSHMORE -
A brisk wind breezed between the Chicago skyscrapers on the
chilly warmup run. Marathoners made
their way to the Grant Park start line. My
hotel was only few yards across the street.
Careful logistical considerations were set once I received event
acceptance in January. However, serious race
training started immediately after a poor 2019 Boston Marathon. On Patriot’s Day 2019, I carried ten extra
pounds leading to disappointing results.
I knew changes needed to occur to the body, heart and mind. I took my goal 3:05 goal with determined ferocity.
This cool windy Chicago day energized my
redemption.
TEMPERING STEEL –
Square One in the plan involved improving the core and
losing weight. Weight loss proved easy
without starving or anything faddish. I
maintained disciplined eating through balance, timing and eating more. I ate more fruits, minimized fats, and ate at
times right after a run while the body was still burning calories. Never full or empty. Improving the core was as simple, no sit-ups. Timed front and side planks stabilized my
core and back. Weekly yoga sessions
supplemented my flexibility, meditation, and strength training.
A marathoner must run.
I boosted my mileage from 70 miles per week in May to 80 miles a week in
June. By July and August, my monthly
mileage was 360 and 475miles for the months.
Each run accomplished something meaningful while quelling demons and
doubts from within. Discipline on the
road mattered most regardless the hour, night or day. The 4AM run became common-place. My mind needed to say to itself, “We can do this
all day.”
SHARPENING THE SWORD –
Razor sharp blades cut the deepest. Luckily, I have one of the BEST edge-shapers
in Memphis. Four years working together,
Coach Kevin Leathers knew my weaknesses and strengths. In this cycle, he noticed a higher level of
fitness and endurance. To sharpen the
running prowess, emphasis needed to be place on the long run and racing.
The long run simulated consistent moderate speeds that kept
me on my feet for an extended period always on the move, my lungs had limited
recovery time. I preplanned routes and
stashed water & fuel along the way, so I’d never need to stop or take a
break. At a point after the halfway, the
pace would increase to a fast tempo. The
evolutions took great patience and discipline from a tendency to go fast at the
beginning. If played correctly, the
runner should have a lot in the tank at the finish.
Racing provide me the mental confidence to run with
anyone. Many think a race is a matter of
beating competitors. Truth be told, it’s
about being with another person trying to get to the finish line just like you. I would even train with competitors who would
turn out to be great friends such as my Tipton Country Running Friends. I was learning not to be afraid of other
runners since they are running their own race.
I completed nine races after the Boston Marathon placing well. I faced down my internal demons by facing
competitors and friends. Chicago
awaited.
CHI-TOWN ARRIVAL –
My Mother, Ninang (Filipina Godmother), Grace (wife) and I
scheduled our flight arriving early Friday morning to avoid the crowds. Organizers automated the entire check
in. Upon arriving to the first checkpoint,
an attendant scanned my packet pickup barcode sending an instantaneous
notification to my pickup location. Once
at the pickup location, two fellows greeted me, “Mr. Delasalas, Your Packet is
ready. Pleases review.” Talk about high
speed.
I didn’t dilly-dally with too many Expo sponsors. I sought out to speak with my coach at the
St. Jude booth talk about the game plan.
He asked what I envisioned. My
entire plan relied on staying behind a pacer and following them to the
end. Coach Kevin responded, “That may
work, however, you have to depend on yourself if things go awry.” He referred to my 2018 New York City Marathon
where crowds swept me away from the pacers and I panicked then blew up my
pace. “If you must, make sure to mark
time on each of the mile clocks and remember what time you started. Then go ‘old school’ and calculate your
pace. Be engaged in the moment and
THINK.”
HOLY COW! IT’S
SATURDAY –
My parents attempted the 2017 Boston 5K. My Mom PR’d (43 minutes) while my father blew
out his knee on the first mile requiring me to carry him 2.5 miles to the
finish. This year only my Mom and I took
on the Chicago course. Despite the wind
and cold, I remained positive telling my Mother, “It’s going to be okay. It’s not too cold. You are going to be Great.” She was rolling along in beautiful form
throughout the entire race despite minor knee discomfort. Before she knew it, she found herself at Mile
3 running to the finish with new PR of 42minutes! We celebrated with a nice brunch at the
hotel. Taking my coaches advice, I
stayed off my feet for the entire day to watch college football or sleep. I would only get up into the evening to
celebrate Catholic Mass.
Tucked between tall buildings, St. Peter’s Catholic Church rested
in the middle of the Chicago Downtown Loop.
My Mother, ever the churchgoer, settled us at the second row. At the end of Mass, the Priest asked all
marathon participants to the alter for a blessing. He was surprised to see over 75 runners join
him.
Leaving the church, I noticed Father speaking to man
wearing a Bank of America Official’s badge and a Road Racing Club of America
(RRCA) sweater. I introduced myself and
told the man I was a registered coach of that organization. He shook my hand telling me he was the
National President of the RRCA, Mr. Mitchell Garner of Michigan. I mentioned that I certified to give back and
volunteer coach. Moved, he pullout a
cloth from his briefcase. It was an Olympic
flag signed by many Olympians including the Great Captain Billy Mills, USMC
(Gold Medalist 10,000m Tokyo-1964). As
we left each other, Mr. Garner imparted words of wisdom from Capt. Mills to
help inspire me for the marathon.
"Your life is a gift from the Creator. Your gift back
to the Creator is what you do with your life."
RACE DAY –
Following a great slumber, I woke fresh at 4AM as if it was
a normal workout day. I grabbed a
granola bar, took a brisk two-mile run, and returned to dress into my race kit. I headed to Grant Park at 7AM, I was in Red
Wave, Coral B. The wave gate would close
at 7:20. Once, I figured out the lay of
the venue, It was already 7:15, my gate would close in 5minutes and I still had
my check-in bag! I quickly checked in my
bag. Now, I had less than one minute to
the gate. Apparently, ten other runners
failed to monitor time like me. We
sprinted to the gate with only 10 seconds left to spare. Still sprinting, we funneled fast like X-Wing
Fighters though the Death Star corridors leading to our corals.
Once in the corals, I looked for the pacers. As feared, the pacers were at the very front
of the coral and I was at the very back.
Shades of NYC Marathon were repeating.
However, instead of concern, I drew upon Coach Kevin’s advice and game
plan. The strategy involved staying
close to goal time (7:03s) for two hours.
Then at the third hour, put the hammer down.
With a prayer, I crossed the start with glance at the clock
reading 7:35AM. My start was only 5
minutes behind the running clock. My
forearm listed each mile mark time.
GO TIME –
The start itself was magical. Coral B was only a few yards from the head of
a gigantic line. After crossing the
line, runners sped to their pace through a dark quiet tunnel heading to a
light. Once in the sun the intensity of
cheers roared with people lining the sidewalks.
Pockets of dead-spots isolated runners at Boston and New York. Not Chicago, spectators lifted every
marathoner to the very end,
My race started slow and I found myself losing time, two to
five seconds per mile. However, I didn’t
feel the need to tense. In fact, my
circumstantial running partner amused me.
A Japanese man dressed in a Minnie Mouse outfit (skirt and all). The crowd would yell out cheers for
“MINNIE”! I chuckled and gestured to the
running Minnie. In those moments, I
realized not to take the moment to seriously and enjoy the run.
Unfortunately, Minnie didn’t run fast enough. By the 13.1mile (Half) mark, I was a 1.5 minutes behind schedule. However, I didn't panic. I kept telling myself, “You are fine, relax, your time will come.” As luck would have it, Coach Kevin happened to be at the half-way rooting me on. His presence boosted my morale.
At mile 17, I threw aside 2
hours of patience and unleashed 7 months of focused energy. Recalling Jack London’s ‘Credo’ to fit the
moment, “Run Like a brilliant blaze. A
superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow. Runners and Spectator
alike will know YOU ran this Day!” I
would either become burnt ash or lightning flash at the finish. I took
inventory of any pains. Feeling none, I flipped the switch. “Nine miles to make
something special.”
THE PUSH –
I felt my speed increase to
sub 7’s. I ran hard the next mile and my
watch confirmed my feeling. Now rolling
under 6:50s, I kept the pace going into 20 miles. My mind fully engaged, my body ran like a
finely tuned sports car, and I passed bundles runners. I was flying fast, relaxed
and awake in the moment.
Mile 23 and I'm going for
it. I know I have less than 25minutes left of this race. No sign of leg cramp, stomach pain, chest
cave or light-headedness. No signs of
anything that hindered me in past Marathons. My system in full operational and ready for
MAXIMUM EFFORT!
I flew through Chinatown and
gave a quick nod-bow to a temple. I hit
Southside and slapped hands with guy holding a Boom Box. I cruised through a school zone speed
indicator reading 9MPH. I crossed the
bridge headed back into the Chicago Loop, this race was close to over.
THE FINISH - FLY THE ‘W’ –
Leave nothing on the table! Bet everything on you!
Back onto Michigan Avenue toward Grant Park, I knew I had made
up the time and more to meet my 3:05 goal. With every step, the euphoria
started to seep into me. Full sprint to the finish, I cross the line both fists
clenched in my personal victory and let out a WARCRY. The kind the Marines
taught me at Officer Candidate School that comes from Chest, Heart and SOUL! I
didn't beat a person. I beat internal limitations. I Out-Ran Myself Today.
Sashaying in happiness back
to the hotel, I noticed I defeated my pre-race soundtrack of 46 Tracks making
it to only 45 songs. Reaching the front
of the hotel, my jubilant family celebrated with me. My mom gave me a balloon just as she did when
I won a 50yrd dash in Catholic Youth Sports as an 8yr old boy. It was cool then, darn if it wasn't cool
today. I knew I did something very
special. Initial online results read,
3:03:22 (six-minute personal record).
I reflected on another quote
from Capt. Mills. "The ultimate is
not to win, but to reach within the depths of your capabilities and to compete
against yourself to the greatest extent possible. When you do that, you have
dignity. You have the pride. You can walk about with character and pride no
matter in what place you happen to finish."
Thursday, August 22, 2019
❤ YOUR RUNNING / ❤ YOUR NEIGHBOR
On my way home from Rin's Hill, I stopped to greet the elderly man whose wife past some months back. I expressed how much his words meant to me last month and how I appreciated the chocolates she'd give me. He said, She was the kindest and most beautiful woman. The 54years of marriage was the happiest of his life. He loved when she smiled. She smiled every time I ran by saying, "There goes that runner." He chuckled as he thought of her. I formally introduced myself. He introduced himself as J-A-Y Bailey.
Well Mr. Bailey, I'll be stopping by to check up on you and we can share smiles together.
Sunday, August 11, 2019
MRTC RRS 1st 5M (August 2019)
Mystery Achievement - Master's 1s Place
4th of 1031 Overall
1st of 72 Age Group 50-54
Chicago training ramped mileage to +100 week with more intensity on hills and track-work (400s). My legs should be tired, but with good rest Saturday, race day seemed like a good day to accomplish something special. However, soupy humidity played havoc on everyone at sunrise. I stood at the start, the fog I drove to the event in did not lift. The thick dense mist felt like scenes from a Stephen King novel. This was going to be a heck of a ride with a goal of 33minutes.
The gun sounded and my engine rose to churn my legs into gear. Like a shot, I went right after the lead pack. I stuck right behind them. Rayder the Legend disappeared in my first few steps. “No need to chase that,” I though. But the cluster lead of 5-7 runners including the amazing Rita Jorgenson (2015 RRS Winner), seemed abnormally within my reach. “Was the heat doing that much damage to them?”
I tailed the group for the first mile until the pace quicken. The 5miler notoriously rounds many curves. The key is to run the tangent and fix the line to the best cut. Find that course and don’t deviate. As other runner rounded wide on a turn, I cut sharp and accelerated hard and fast. By mile three, I was in sixth position.
Target one showed kinks in his armor immediately, his head stooped, shoulders drooped, and he kept looking at his watch. Though painful, I knew I wanted to be on that course more than he did. I approached him and made an inside move on his wide turn then gunned past. I didn’t bother to turn to look at what I did, I went immediately after target two.
Bogie #2 was relatively close to my last pass. A false flat opened an opportunity. Not a hill grade, the street rose just enough to cause discomfort. Instead of treating it as flat, I lifted my knees, effort and air intake. I charged hard up sucking in the warm morning liquid vapors. Each breath was clogging my lungs like a clove cigarette at a New Wave 80’s dance club. I knew I needed and liked the air, but this air was not good for me at all. However, in the back of my mind I though, “If this is bad for me? This is really bad for the guy in front of me if he didn’t train in it this week like I did.” With that thought, I opened-up and went passed him in a hard charge.
All that was left was the park. I had not looked at my watch once since mile one. However, I knew two things: I felt fast and I hardly had any targets ahead. I couldn’t even hear the last person I passed. I could only run this for myself, for my time.
The park rounds a baseball field and onto another windy paved path. My mind danced a game of let up or hammer hard. If I let up, who would care? No one would know if I cruised the last 1/2mile. No one would know but YOU. My burning psyche would never allow “Money Left on the Table”. The IT monster in the Fog and inside me rose up and unleashed a horrendous fast leg rotation. The IT reasoned, “You are running a brilliant race. YOU WILL NOT FINISH WITH ANYTHING LESS THAN YOUR BEST DARN IT!”
As the finish approached, the clock read 31:XX. My Personal Best was 32:24. I crossed the line at 31:48. I just crushed my best 5miler by +30seconds. With hands on knees almost in prayer, I looked back to see no runners approach. I left the monster on the course…….
4th of 1031 Overall
1st of 72 Age Group 50-54
Chicago training ramped mileage to +100 week with more intensity on hills and track-work (400s). My legs should be tired, but with good rest Saturday, race day seemed like a good day to accomplish something special. However, soupy humidity played havoc on everyone at sunrise. I stood at the start, the fog I drove to the event in did not lift. The thick dense mist felt like scenes from a Stephen King novel. This was going to be a heck of a ride with a goal of 33minutes.
The gun sounded and my engine rose to churn my legs into gear. Like a shot, I went right after the lead pack. I stuck right behind them. Rayder the Legend disappeared in my first few steps. “No need to chase that,” I though. But the cluster lead of 5-7 runners including the amazing Rita Jorgenson (2015 RRS Winner), seemed abnormally within my reach. “Was the heat doing that much damage to them?”
I tailed the group for the first mile until the pace quicken. The 5miler notoriously rounds many curves. The key is to run the tangent and fix the line to the best cut. Find that course and don’t deviate. As other runner rounded wide on a turn, I cut sharp and accelerated hard and fast. By mile three, I was in sixth position.
Target one showed kinks in his armor immediately, his head stooped, shoulders drooped, and he kept looking at his watch. Though painful, I knew I wanted to be on that course more than he did. I approached him and made an inside move on his wide turn then gunned past. I didn’t bother to turn to look at what I did, I went immediately after target two.
Bogie #2 was relatively close to my last pass. A false flat opened an opportunity. Not a hill grade, the street rose just enough to cause discomfort. Instead of treating it as flat, I lifted my knees, effort and air intake. I charged hard up sucking in the warm morning liquid vapors. Each breath was clogging my lungs like a clove cigarette at a New Wave 80’s dance club. I knew I needed and liked the air, but this air was not good for me at all. However, in the back of my mind I though, “If this is bad for me? This is really bad for the guy in front of me if he didn’t train in it this week like I did.” With that thought, I opened-up and went passed him in a hard charge.
All that was left was the park. I had not looked at my watch once since mile one. However, I knew two things: I felt fast and I hardly had any targets ahead. I couldn’t even hear the last person I passed. I could only run this for myself, for my time.
The park rounds a baseball field and onto another windy paved path. My mind danced a game of let up or hammer hard. If I let up, who would care? No one would know if I cruised the last 1/2mile. No one would know but YOU. My burning psyche would never allow “Money Left on the Table”. The IT monster in the Fog and inside me rose up and unleashed a horrendous fast leg rotation. The IT reasoned, “You are running a brilliant race. YOU WILL NOT FINISH WITH ANYTHING LESS THAN YOUR BEST DARN IT!”
As the finish approached, the clock read 31:XX. My Personal Best was 32:24. I crossed the line at 31:48. I just crushed my best 5miler by +30seconds. With hands on knees almost in prayer, I looked back to see no runners approach. I left the monster on the course…….
Thursday, July 25, 2019
"WE RUN FOR LOVE"
A funk drew a cloud over me since Monday. A +30yr memory occupied my psyche. I took to running, RUNNING HARD. At times at torrential paces. I asked friends for prayers and tore into the track and road. During my evening 6miler, the triviality of it ceased.
For years, running to Rin’s hill meant running by this white home (pictured). An elderly woman occupied the porch with her little Pug pooch. It would bark frantically at me while she told me the little guy meant no harm. Passing her brightened my run and provided encouragement just before taking on grueling intervals workouts up Rin’s Hill. Sometimes the sweet woman offered me a cookie or chocolate bar when my body dragged from the hard work out.
Over the past months, I notice she wasn’t on her porch bench. She wasn’t out there today on a pleasurable evening. As I approached her home, her husband drove his tractor to the front of the home. I paused and waved for him to stop.
“Beautiful Day,” I said, “I notice the Missus hasn’t been around”.
The elderly man pleasantly smiled, “My wife… She died now 18 months back in January 2018.”
I gently grabbed his arm and replied, “I am So Sorry My Friend.”
He patted my hands in appreciation. “It was her time son…. You know, she thought the world of you. You were an inspiration to her with all that runnin’. She sure loved to watch you run.”
I gently tightened my grip on his arm. “Thank You Sir. God Bless You.” His other hand continued patting my hands. I let go and smiled. Turn back to the Road. With a sigh and deep breath sped on my way.
My funk of previous days reared itself from memories five American Presidents past. Yet, just as inconsequential saw a woman on a porch waiving hello now passed away. The later put into context my what I must cherish; Those who care about me in the present. To be at peace with old spirits and Love what is in front of you. Especially when she gives you cookies. 😉
For years, running to Rin’s hill meant running by this white home (pictured). An elderly woman occupied the porch with her little Pug pooch. It would bark frantically at me while she told me the little guy meant no harm. Passing her brightened my run and provided encouragement just before taking on grueling intervals workouts up Rin’s Hill. Sometimes the sweet woman offered me a cookie or chocolate bar when my body dragged from the hard work out.
Over the past months, I notice she wasn’t on her porch bench. She wasn’t out there today on a pleasurable evening. As I approached her home, her husband drove his tractor to the front of the home. I paused and waved for him to stop.
“Beautiful Day,” I said, “I notice the Missus hasn’t been around”.
The elderly man pleasantly smiled, “My wife… She died now 18 months back in January 2018.”
I gently grabbed his arm and replied, “I am So Sorry My Friend.”
He patted my hands in appreciation. “It was her time son…. You know, she thought the world of you. You were an inspiration to her with all that runnin’. She sure loved to watch you run.”
I gently tightened my grip on his arm. “Thank You Sir. God Bless You.” His other hand continued patting my hands. I let go and smiled. Turn back to the Road. With a sigh and deep breath sped on my way.
My funk of previous days reared itself from memories five American Presidents past. Yet, just as inconsequential saw a woman on a porch waiving hello now passed away. The later put into context my what I must cherish; Those who care about me in the present. To be at peace with old spirits and Love what is in front of you. Especially when she gives you cookies. 😉
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