May 20th, 2006

Getting Ultra

It's been about 2-1/2 months since my last journal entry, and a lot has happened! For openers, I'm a self-professed, Chi-Runner! My running times have improved, and I'm working (a whole lot) less hard during runs.

I've settled into better fitting running shoes. I've abandoned my ASICS 2100 (normal to mild pronation) for ASICS Gel Nimbis 7s (cushioning). I've been hittin' the trails and love my Salomons. I've upgraded my headlamp to the newer version of Black Diamond's, Zenix - HyperBright LED Headlamp for a more intense illumination! Along with my recently purchased Brooks, Nightlife Vest (purchased at the Cherry Blossom 10M in DC) I'm on the road anywhere between 7:00 and 11:00 PM.

Fast John and I were apparently the last 2/50 entrants for the Damn Wakely Dam Ultra (32M) on 7/22/06 - the day after I turn 53. We've run several times together, and two weekends ago we fast-packed the Wakely course for an amazing adventure! By race time... we'll be ready to rock!

As a family, we'll be going up to Maine and spending some time with Kate's brother (Joe and Mona). Sarah and I will run the Beach to Beacon 10K on August 5th, along with 10K Mona and relatives. The next day, Abbe and I drive north to Baxtor State Park for 3 nights - we're planning to hike Knife Edge!

As Captain of Runners with Sole, our relay team for Reach the Beach 200 Mile Relay in NH (9/15/06), I'm thrilled to be facilitating this adventure in endurance and camaraderie. Securing hotel accommodations is the next step...

On June 15th, I should know if I made the lottery cut to run the New York City Marathon in Nov. I'm eagerly awaiting the news!

All of the above has occurred in the context of Kate and my decision to separate the end of this month. As sad is this is, we are both quite relieved. Abbe and Sarah are about as OK with this as they can be. Kate's rented an apartment 2 miles away, so the girls and I will live together until Abbe heads off to American University (DC) late August.