6.8 Miles

I celebrated my 68th birthday a few days ago, so naturally I attempted to do what every 68-year-old should attempt on his birthday - run 6.8 miles in 68 minutes. I'm happy to say I accomplished the 6.8 mile part of it. I can count the number of times I've run this distance on one hand. Unfortunately, 68 minutes was beyond my capabilities. My time was 69:54. Close. I think 6.9 miles in 69 minutes is within the realm of possibility for next year.

A few days before the birthday run I completed Running Every Street for the 14th time! Thanks to everyone who's supporting me and Living Hope.

68 Push-Ups?

I turn 68 next Wednesday. I thought that would be a great day to run 6.8 miles in 68 minutes. Also, I was thinking I could record myself doing 68 push-ups. Then I'd post it all on Facebook.

I been rather proud of myself being able to do my age in push-ups for the last several years, so this was not going to be a problem. As preparation we decided to do a practice video a few days ago:

Unfortunately, I didn't realize until watching the video that my form is not correct. I'm doing partial push-ups! I had no idea. When using proper form, I can only do about 45 push-ups. 

What this means is that I need to go back into training. I will be going back on the HundredPushups plan. This plan has me doing about a 100-150 push-ups, three days a week, until I get to the total I desire. I will keep you apprised of my progress in the comments.

Fergus Falls Lake Region Run

 

Yesterday was the Lake Region Run in Fergus Falls.

The weather was perfect - mid-60s with a slight wind.

This is a nice course, running around a lake and residential areas.

Preparing for the starting gun.

I gave it everything I had. I couldn't have finished any faster.

The finish line.

I met my goal of 30 minutes. Here are the details:

Year 14

 

Yes, that's right - I'm actually a jogger! Much of the time, anyway. Coach Ironfist always has me begin with a 10 minute, very slow, warm-up run. So, if you see me during the start of the run, I'll be jogging. Also, many of the runs she has me do are what she calls 'economy' runs - which are also slow runs. 

So, I've begun Year 14! Actually, I began in March. I can't believe it's taken me this long to post. I should be done in a couple weeks.

Seaside School 5k

On Sunday we raced in Seaside FL to help raise money for the Seaside School.

It was the biggest race I've ever been a part of. There were 1500 runners for the 5K. This meant that it took several seconds to reach the starting line after starting gun. Also, other runners surrounded me the entire race. If I wanted to pick up the pace, I would have to weave around other runners.

My time was 31:09 - a little disappointing, but with discipline and determination, I should be able to shave a couple minutes off that time this year.

I came in 476th place overall.

Of the 21 men aged 65-69 in the race, I came in 5th.

It was our first Sunday race. The race was supposed to start at 7:30, but due to inclement weather, the start was postponed till 8:45. I cleaned up as quickly as I could after the race, and we were able to worship at the Seaside Chapel.

Men In Tights

Saturday was the FSU Torch Run in Panama City.

1. There were 199 participants in the race.

2. The temperature was in the low 40s, so I decided to wear tights for the first time in a race.

3. My time was not stellar: 30:54. I came in 7th place for the old men. 64th overall. At least I'm lifting my rear foot to a good level...

4. Here I am carrying the Torch at the end. (This photo taken by the race organizers.)

5. I don't feel Coach Agnes had me properly prepared for this race. I'm finally going to ask her why she's only been giving me short, slow runs lately. Nonetheless, it sure is good to be able to run and compete this time of year.

 

400 miles!

Two years ago, I ran 200 miles. Last year I ran 300 miles. This year, with Coach Agnes Ironfist pushing me, I've run 400 miles! I am incredibly thankful that I'm still able to do this.