Long Runs

Two weeks ago was our first 'long' run.

My First 10K

Morning of my first race.

I awake early. Nerves, there since the day before, make my tummy rumble and still impede my ability to eat. My calves are tight, and I am cursing the decision to bicycle along the beach the day before. Injuries have befallen my housemate and running buddy so I am headed out of the house alone today.

Driving down to the race site, I try and envision the described hill once again. A water tower. Ok. I lived by a water tower in that same town, and had walked its path numerous times. Surely, I think, running the envisioned hill was not going to be a problem.

Until I get to the actual race site and the hill present is not the hill I imagined and mentally prepared for. This throws me off.

But the joy of running with a group is the endless support and camaraderie. My doubts of readiness are comforted by teammates and newly developed friends. We stretch, we warm up, and I soak up advice.

As we start the course, the air is cold and painful. I pace myself with teammates and enjoy some of the gossip and sightseeing. By mile two however the decent up the hill begins, and the true race starts.

What pulls me through is the marching paced chant of the SWAT trainees. Chanting along in my head, I try to remember to lift my knees and dig deep with my arms.

But once this obstacle is covered, the rest of the race is pleasant and nice. Every quarter mile or so, a race volunteer, sheriff officer, or a random onlooker cheers us on or wishes us well as we pass. I want to kiss and hug each and every one of them - this is what my runner’s high does to me.

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My personal runs are different now. With purpose and newfound strength, I am able to dart though my normal neighborhood route in nearly half the time it use to take me. My legs, arms, stomach, and back all feel stronger and more in control as I stride through. I feel high. Happy. In control. Maybe this is why runners do what they do.

Seven Mile Itch

The runs of the past few weeks have been hard and heavy with smoke and heat. However, I am amazed at my body’s ability to continue to grow and develop in ways that I never thought possible.

This morning, I completed the longest run I have ever done in my life – seven miles through the hilly bay shore of Martinez.

And, this afternoon, I took the best nap I can remember.

Dedication

Saturday was my third weekend group run. The temperature at 8 am in the morning was already blaringly hot, but the time and the distance passed quickly.

It is amazing to me how my body has adapted. My goals are still a long way off, but the meditation of the run has set it.

I pound the pavement and I am able to focus, clear my head, and breathe.

I have decided to dedicate my run to my grandfather and my father, two of the most important men in my life, both unfairly burdened with the pain of cancer.

I run for them. And when the cramps and the broken breathing and the sore muscles set in, I will remember them and be strong and go long.