Whatever...............

Avi-Stoltz

2011-02-13T18:45:00.000-08:00

People who know me know that as far as running is concerned, I would rather spend all day gouging my way along the AT, than spend one hour beating the pavement or the running track. This would be clearly evident also if one were to look in my closet at my running shoe collection. Two pairs of racing flats, two pairs of trainers, and up until Friday seven pairs of trail shoes.

Friday afternoon that number increased to eight pairs of trail shoes as my much anticipated Avi-Stoltz finally arrived. Time to put the shoes to the test. So Saturday morning I decided I would scratch my scheduled ride and instead, take them out for a test run.

Once I opened the box a couple of things were plainly obvious, setting these shoes apart from any other trail shoes I have ever owned. First was the color. The bright orange and shiny blue accents are going to be visible for miles and will ensure that, at least my feet will be visible to even the blindest hunter in Notheast Gergia.

Second was the weight. At only 10 ounces they are almost as light as my racing flats. This is pleasant change from my other trail shoes as most of them are are heavy and have more of a hiking shoe feel to them rather than a running shoe. I also liked the fact that the heel bed although padded and protected, it isn't so high off of the ground that the shoe feels unstable.

Third was the extended heel tab in the back. At first I was worried that it would rub the back of my heel or achilles. This actually ended up being a bonus for a couple of reasons. First it helps when pulling the show over the the heel, secondly I was to find out later that it seemed to grip my heel and eliminate slippage that is common with all shoes when climbing steep ascents.

I did have some trouble initially getting the shoe to open up to get my foot inside. Once I got the laces loosened up and adjusted them to my feet the the fit was perfect! The quick release laces are a nice touch.

Another problem I have with trail shoes is the toe box area. They are usually too narrow for my small, but Barney Rubble shaped feet, which presents a major problem on steep descents as my toes tend to get wedged uncomfortably in the front of the shoe, or they are too wide which causes excess movemet inside the shoe. Avia has seemed to have worked this out perfectly (for my feet at least). They griped my entire foot comfortably and without any excess movement.

As far as performance is concerned the tread seemed to grip well in the hard frozen red Georgia clay. They were a little slippery over rocks however no more than any other running shoe. I accidently ended up in a creek in an unsucessful leap attempt. As I climbed out of the creek the shoe didn't seem to drain exceptionally fast, but it didn't seem to soak up excess water as many shoes do. A great bonus.

In my opinion, one sign of a great shoe is one that you forget you are wearing. This happened after about two miles as my thoughts went away from my feet and to my run. Gone was the usual arch pain, as well as the usual throbbing I get in my toes. All great signs.

All in all I think this is a great shoe. Its even light enough to use as a road shoe. I'm pretty sure that this will become my primary training shoe as most of my runs take place on hard pack fire roads and trails. I think the only improvement that can be made would be the addition of Yankz laces. Next month I'll be spending a week in Yosemite and weather permiting, I'll run the Half Dome Trail in my Avi-Stoltz!

It's also good to mention that the Avia skull logo is probably the coolest logo out there!

January ramblings.....

2011-02-04T09:31:00.000-08:00

January is in the books and despite a minor setback (old man back injuries suck) training is progressing well so far. I have gotten back to the pool full force and although I still only move slightly faster than pond water, my swim fitness is returning quickly. Hopefully, with some concentrated effort this year, I can progress from pond water speed to trickling water hose speed. I’m also hoping this year I can make it to one of Carole’s swim clinics in Atlanta and she can turn me into one of those speedy torpedoes in the water. I am still hesitant to throw down a split goal for Knoxville as it appears that although I have swam countless miles over the years, completed many 70.3’s and even a 140.6, I still find surviving a 400m open water swim a major accomplishment. Damn those sea monsters and large man eating fish.

This week I conducted an LT Field test to wire down my training zones. Over the course of that test I came to realize several things:
1. LT Tests suck.
2. Despite how much an LT Test sucks I’m not as out of shape as I thought.
3. The tri shorts I was wearing on the treadmill were so threadbare (apparently from swimming), that my…..er… man parts were visible …. (Luckily for me, and the rest of the world, it was early, and I was alone in the gym).
4. I need new shorts.

This Sunday is The Red Top Rumble 11.5 Trail Race, which is the first event of 2011 for me. This is a small trail race sponsored by the Georgia Ultra Running and Trail running Society (GUTS). This one is an Atlanta favorite and is limited to only 300 runners and usually sells out within 3 hours. Not an overly technical course however there is several sections with long steep leg blistering climbs and descents. Last year I finished in 1:36. Would like a 1:30 or better this year. I had hoped my new Avi-Stoltz would have arrived in the mail for the race, but alas, no……..

Things I am really excited about this year: 2011 Trakkers Team and sponsors! Especially Avi-stoltz shoes (Avia Shoes in general), Recovery Pump (I need this bad), and the Rev3 Half in Knoxville!

Finally, I’m still looking for a Trakkers Teamate for the Rev3 Adventure Race in April……..Male or Female……. Or both…… registration is free for us……………… any takers out there?.........Hello?

2011-01-18T07:48:00.000-08:00

At the southern terminus of the Appalachian Mountains lies one of the most spectacular parks in the southeast. I am fortunate enough to live only a few miles away from Amicalola Falls State Park, and can usually be found there on most Sunday mornings running one of several of my favorite running routes.
As a matter of fact, the nickname that many of my friends refer to me by, was given to me by one of the park rangers who worked there. One early Sunday morning, several years ago, a friend and I were at the visitors center signing in for a early morning morning trail run when the elderly lady working there as a volunteer asked me if I was that "Falls Runner" guy that the Ranger mentioned, who was always running up and down the stairs like a crazy man. We laughed and said I guess that would be me. The name kinda stuck.

The aptly named Amicalola Falls State Park , is home to a 729 ft cascading waterfall, the tallest east of the Mississippi River. Aptly named as Amicalola is Cherokee for tumbling water. The falls are always incredible but I think they are most beautiful in the winter as the falls can be seen for miles around. The park offers weekly wilderness activities and workshops, has a small visitor with store and small historical and wildlife exhibit, and can support anything from small picnics to corporate conventions. There also is a kick ass restaurant at the top of the falls with breathtaking year round views.

In the North Georgia, Brasstown, and the six fabled Gaps get the majority of the attention of the cycling community. Now I will agree that if you are planning only one trip to ride in North Ga then you shouldn't pass up the opportunity to mash up Brasstown and/or Hogpen. I will say however that although not near as long those, Neels, or Wolfpen Gaps, the climb up the Top of the Falls Road at Amicalola although just slightly over a mile long, gets my legs and lungs burning more than most of the longer famed North Georgia gaps.

Walking or running up the falls is a different type of pain. After a steep approach trail about 1/4 mile long leads to the what some consider the base, the falls are flanked by a staircase of 471 stairs that lead to the top. Running these stairs is another staple training session that I enjoy even though I usually draw strange stares (no pun intended) from others as I huff my way up and down them. These are usually best run early in the morning so crowds can be avoided.
Once at the top you have multiple options as the park has numerous loop trails of various difficulty. My favorite trail within the park is the Len Foote Hike Inn trail. This is a 5 mile trail that leads from the top of the falls to the famed Len Foote Hike Inn. Its a great running trail as it's not too rocky, and the climbs and descents are not steep nor as technical as the surrounding trails. The trail is also well marked and has mileage markers along the way for those without GPS watches. Runners or hikers that make the 5 mile one way trip have the option of continuing on the AT approach trail, or even stopping for a visit to the inn, or perhaps a side trip on one of the loop trails before beginning their return trip back to the falls.

The Inn is a remote and beautifully rustic lodge 5 miles deep within the Chattahoochee National Forest. It's very unique as it allows one to take a hike deep into the Appalachian Mountains, which is the only way to get there, yet stay in a comfortable rustic lodge, complete with heated showers, hot meals, and comfortable warm beds. Its the perfect getaway for those wanting to experience the southern wilderness without actually roughing it. It’s also favorite starting point for AT through hikers making the annual March pilgrimage to Springer Mountain for the 2000 plus mile journey.
If you're like most athletes you spend your training sessions just like me, totally absorbed in the training paying no attention to anything else but your body and the plan. I have also learned that a diversion is healthy and keeps training interesting. My excursions to Amicalola Falls helps me through those long early morning base runs, and I actually embrace the remoteness and solitude of the mountains much more than beating the pavement alone . If you're ever in North Georgia you owe it to yourself to stop by.

Snow Day (s)

2011-01-13T19:50:00.000-08:00

Back to work finally! Which for me isn't really that bad anytime of year. Despite the fact that I just basically love my job, I also have the most incredible view within footsteps of my office door (see pic on the left). A picture is worth a thousand words!

It does appear that we're finally thawing out down here in the south! For the last week we've been in the grip of the most severe winter storm in over ten years. Almost the entire northern half of the state has been trapped inside for several days waiting for the deep freeze to thaw. As much as 6" to 8" inches of snow fell in less than 10 hours, only to be topped with sleet and freezing rain. Here at home (in the North Georgia mountains) I measured 10 inches of snow on the top of my car. This is the most snow I have ever seen in Georgia! I realize our brothers from the north are laughing at us and they deal with this on a daily basis in the winter. But for a region that rarely sees 2 inches of snow all winter, Atlanta's 10:2,000,000 ratio of snow removal trucks to residents always seemed to do the job just fine. No so this year. It was however , and nice getting outside for a few runs in the snow. Reminded me of my days living in Alaska.....without the -50 degree temps of course! I also got back on the tri bike for the first time since B2B in November for a few quality trainer rides!

Today I officially registered for Rev 3 Knoxville and South Carolina. Trying to swing Rev 3 Cedar Point as well but not sure work is going to cooperate! Can't wait!!!!!!!

Training (and recovery from the holidays) is progressing nicely and I'm looking forward to the Red Top Rumble 11.5 mile trail race in early Feb. Hopefully the Avi-Stoltz will arrive as I am growing tired of my "Other Shoes"

Below are a couple of winter scenes from one of my runs. I love where I live!

Memberships

2010-12-08T10:24:00.000-08:00

Memberships….Things I am a member of……..My dysfunctional but loving family of course, USAT Member 482432, BSA Troop 36 Scoutmaster, Fit2Tri Triathlon Club, the North Atlanta Multisport Club, USMRA (US Mountain Ranger Association), WAR (Worldwide Association of Rangers), 82nd Airborne Association, US NCO Museum Association, Trailblazers Adventure Racing Club member 2357, Team First Endurance, US Cycling association, once again Team Trakkers 2011 (09, 10) and now it appears this……………damn, I'm only a 50-54 age grouper...........hmmmmmm wonder if this means I no longer have to work?

Adventure Race?

2010-11-18T08:46:00.001-08:00

Adventure Race in December? Sure why not. I have no physical punishment, or mental anguish scheduled for the Holiday Season……
This week I was offered the opportunity to compete in the Midnight Rush Adventure Race on 11 December 2010. My team mates and I will be representing (not only Trakkers for me) the Army’s 5th Ranger Training Battalion. We’ll be fielding two teams, a two-man (my team), and a three-man male team. The race is a 14 hour sprint race conducted in my backyard, the Chattahoochee National Forest. Even though we are all intimately familiar with the area the race is being conducted, I’m not sure how much of an advantage this will provide as some of the other team members have not ridden a mountain bike since elementary school, and the closest they have come to a canoe is watching the big waterfall scene in the movie Last of the Mohicans…. That alone should be a hoot. Obviously winning is not the motivation for competing…… What is motivating however is the race supports what I feel is one of the most worthy organizations out there. The Lead the Way fund!
Lead the Way Fund, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit organization established to raise money in support of disabled U.S. Army Rangers and families of Rangers who have died, have been injured or are currently serving in harm’s way around the world. The Lead the Way Fund, Inc. provides assistance for health and wellness programs as well as other services vital to the families of deceased, disabled or active duty Rangers. The assistance offered by Lead the Way is inspired by the courage and character of Sgt. James J. Regan who was killed in Iraq while serving with honor with the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. Read about James and the LTW fund @ http://www.leadthewayfund.org/sgt-james-j-regan/
Of course I’ll be sure to take excellent notes and make a full race report upon completion as I am sure it will most definitely be an adventure….. Hmmmmmm….now what shoes should I wear

SOB 2011

2010-11-17T04:11:00.000-08:00

Watch out Race World. I came up with a brilliant idea on the way to Wilmington, NC for the B2B Half.
For those of you not familiar with I-95, just inside the northern South Carolina border lies a little gem of a place known as South of the Border. It's been referred to as many things over the years by travelers, and vacationers. America's Highway Oasis, The Acapulco of the East, South Carolina's Shithole...wait, forget the last one. Anyway....It's been there since 1949, and in my travels up and down I-95 over the years, I've watched this little place grow over the years from a trendy little truck stop to a full blown family vacation destination, kind of like Vegas but without nice casinos, hot dancers, Wayne Newton, or Lion Tamers. I am sure there are probably been a real life episodes of the Hangover made there weekly. Where else on earth can you take an elevator up 200’ inside the world’s largest sombrero, ride a roller coaster, spend the day in the Silver Slipper Arcade, buy rubber dog poop, and view a life size replica of the world’s largest Great White Shark, all in the same day. ….and I was only approached by one person pandering for money….this isn’t your run of the mill truck stop….oh no! So this is when I came up with my idea. Why not hold a triathlon here! It’s perfect! I know there is already a Rev 3 SC but this is kind of like being in Mexico….or its own little country……
Rev3 South of the Border......nah.... Maybe the Rev3 SOB? Perfect.... I'm a genius.... So here is my plan for Rev 3 SOB 2011.
Ok here’s what I was thinking.... Swim location would have to be the Reptile lagoon... although it would have to be pool lap swim who cares.... the alligators and snakes would be a great twist, plus the Giardiasis risk would make you swim even faster.

Transition area is already marked and only a short run from the swim exit. Very little broken glass and I didn’t see one syringe!

The SOB bike course is awesome. I -95 baby, Straight, scenic, lightning fast and already marked nearly every few miles. See?

And naturally the SOB run course would be through the streets and road around SOB and finish between the Rev3 SOB mascots legs! Pedro! The SOB SOB himself! No need to even bring the blow up arch.
After the race spectators would wander for hours around SOB shopping for fireworks and real Mexico souvenirs. New shipments from Taiwan arrive weekly so the shelves are always stocked. Whoopie cushions, boobie mugs, pet rocks, cheesie t-shirts, unlimited NASCAR products….and of course SOB is only a short distance away from Redneck Mecca, Darlington. Knoxville Rev3 has the Sunsphere Tower…. Rev3 SOB has the Sombrero, and Dog Dirt……

Would be an awesome race venue, right?….. Yeah maybe not………..whatever… well if you need gas or rubber dog poop, SOB is the place! Gotta love America!

Get on the Truck

2010-11-01T19:34:00.000-07:00

I’ve spent a fair portion of my adult life in charge of people. Groups of people. These groups of people have ranged in sizes from LGOPs (little groups of paratroopers), to a 200 man plus company. Inside of these groups, there were always people who possessed a variety of skills and talents. Some of these talents have ranged from challenged at best, to abilities that far exceeded my own. Despite these abilities of the people in these groups, the success of these groups more often than not hinged on keeping them focused on the mission at hand, and sometimes just getting them there. And despite their skill level, training, experience, talent, performance, good or bad, a substantial portion of my job was saving them from themselves. One of the old sayings most soldiers have heard one time or another is, ” If you’re going, shut the f@(* up, and get on the truck”. Today I was told the get on the truck. Thanks!
13 Days to B2B 2010.

Where do we get such men?

2010-09-22T11:11:00.000-07:00

I was fascinated to watch the exchange between actor Richard Belzer and Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen ("Into the lion's den," Inside Politics, March 26, 2006). I have completed four combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. I participated in the initial invasion of Afghanistan in 2001 and parachuted into Iraq three years ago this month. Most recently, I had the privilege of leading an infantry company in Mosul, Iraq. I use this as context, not authority, because, according to Mr. Belzer, participating in a conflict indicates a lack of understanding.

When I was younger, my father made me read a book by James Michener, "The Bridges at Toko-Ri." When I finished, I told him the book was about naval aviators during the Korean War. He looked at me a little disappointed and told me I had missed the point. The book to him was not about pilots or the Korean War — it was about the bravery of men. At the end of the book, the captain of an aircraft carrier is watching his men suit up for yet another mission when he asks himself out loud, "Where do we get such men?

Why is America lucky enough to have such men?" Today, while actors and talk-show hosts see fit to broadly characterize the men and women of the armed forces as "19- and 20-year-old kids who couldn't get a job," we should be asking the same question.
I wish Bill Maher, Richard Belzer and the young adults of my generation who comment from campuses and talk shows all over the country and mistake knowledge for understanding could see what's really happening over there. I welcome their right to disagree, but I wish they would educate themselves well enough to disagree intelligently.

They should see a 22-year-old spend two hours sitting on a hard concrete floor negotiating an electricity contract or generator plan only to hit an improvised explosive device emplaced by the very people he seeks to help; a 19-year-old female medic advise a 19-year-old Iraqi mother on how to treat her child's ear infection; or men still dazed from a bomb blast that killed a friend and wounded seven others return from a mission and roll up their sleeves to give blood for the wounded, then clean the blood out of their vehicle to do a night patrol.
They do it without ceremony or formality; they do it because it is their job and they are driven by sense of purpose few in other professions can understand.

"Where do we get such men?" From all over — not just America, but from many other countries, but I know for sure the dedication required to do what they do every day is equal to the demands of any "real job."

The above letter was written by (then) Cpt Paul Carron, to the editor and published in the Washington Times in March 2006. A friend, father, husband, athlete, and true leader of men.

Maj. Paul D. Carron, 33, of Mo. died Sept. 18 at Qalat, Afghanistan. Rest in peace my friend.

I'm a..........

2010-04-01T08:42:00.000-07:00

At what point should one consider themselves something? For example I swim…but I don’t consider myself a swimmer. I do consider myself among other things, a runner, a cyclist, and a triathlete …. But not a swimmer, even though I work very hard trying. Funny how we quantify our titles and subtitles. Currently I am also working hard at becoming a mountain biker, er……mountain cyclist. Whatever…you get the picture. In the last year or so I have raced (or should I say competed in…) several mountain bike events. My finish times and places are steadily improving and now I have split my training to where 50% of my riding time is spent thrashing and mashing along the Bull and Jake Mountain Bike Trails. I have fallen in love with the sport to a point where I would almost rather spend the afternoon on my 30 pound rattlebox of a mountain bike, rather than dancing on the pedals of my 16 pound Vortex up Neels, Hog pen, Woody or any of my beloved six Georgia gaps. Now if I were riding one of the new Kestrel 4000 LTDs that would be very different (soon…very soon hopefully)…. A few weeks ago I was asked by a very good friend and bike shop owner(him on the left, me on the right) to compete as part of a two-man team in a 6 hour mountain bike relay race series. I was flattered that my friend considered me enough of a mountain biker, cyclist, whatever …to ask, even though I don’t consider myself one yet. At several points during that six hours however, I became confident enough to pat myself on the back as I screamed past several slower riders, totally ignoring the riders that seemed to lap me each and every lap. I would for a split second even consider myself a mountain biker just long enough to find myself either on my side, or flat on my ass…..then of course thinking….. I’m a triathlete…..what the $%&* am I doing here. In 17 days I will be competing in an Xterra duathlon, my first multisport event of the year. I have usually finished well in duathlons no doubt as a result of being a stronger runner than cyclist. I would like to say that I don’t care about a podium finish or hardware but I would be lying. I would also like to say that my finish was in a large part to me being a mountain biker. We’ll see….

It’s always a great day to come home after a long day and find a surprise package waiting for you! Trakkers Kit arrived yesterday! They look awesome. I like this year’s jersey and especially the shorts much better than last years. Saucony is a big hit with me so far! Especially since my foot issues have all but disappeared and have had zero calf problems since switching brands. I’m sold. Can’t wait to sport them on the 17th!!!!!

2010 is on!

2010-03-08T11:50:00.000-08:00

This week's warm weather has created a small case of spring fever! It was especially nice to get off the trainer and actually ride on the road twice this week! Very strange to be riding in 70 degree weather and still see piles of snow on the ground in Georgia.

Unfortunately the Lake lanier Temps are still in the 50's but starting to slowly creep toward the 60s which will be later this month hopefully. Need to get out of the pool and in the lake! I really want see how the Tri Slide works with the wetsuit! I've already use it in lieu of Glide several times and it works pretty damn well!

Looks like this is the Race schedule for 2010. I'm trying to figure a way to fit in Cedar Pointe in Sep but work is not cooperating. Not included are several smaller 5ks and a trail run or two spread throughout the season. The big question is will I be able to train for both road and off road races......I guess we'll see about that one! Whatever!

Apr 17 2010, Xterra DU, Tribble Mill, Lawrenceville, Ga
Apr 25 2010, Xterra TRI, Ft Yargo, Winder, Ga
May 8-9 2010, Rev 3 TTI, Knoxville, Tn
May 29 2010, *Xterra DU, Fort Yargo, Winder, Ga
Jun 19 2010, *Xterra DU, Chicopee Woods, Gainesville, Ga
Aug 14 2010, Fools Gold 100/50 Mile Mtn Bike Race, Dahlonega. Ga
Sep 26 2010, Six Gap Century, Dahlonega, Ga
Oct 7 2010, Lake lanier TRI, Buford, Ga
Oct 2010, Dirty Spokes 12/6, Mountain Bike Race, Helen, Ga
Nov 2010, Beach 2 Battleship, Wilmington, NC

The Trakkers Pro Team is already on fire with its second victory of the 2010 triathlon season. Brian Fleischmann took the victory at the USAT Elite Developmental Race down in Clermont, Florida. Just hope I'll be able to contribute a few strong finishes this year!

Snowfall

2010-03-03T09:17:00.000-08:00

I walked outside of my office to see the large quarter sized flakes slowly cascading to the ground bonding with the almost unbroken white blanket that covered nearly everything. In only a short period of time an inch of snow had already accumulated and more was promised. A few minutes earlier the boss decided to release everyone from work early so as not to have to risk driving the long treacherous ice and snow covered mountain road back to Dahlonega, which was bound to worsen as the day progressed. This was the fourth major snowfall of the year in North Georgia causing schools and businesses to close. Our small quaint little town will most likely take on a festive type atmosphere as college students freed from classes take to the parade field and compete to see which group can form the largest snowball as they usually do on a snow day. Several years ago I remember driving by and seeing what had to have been a 15’ snowball on the parade field along with several lesser 7 footers scattered about. Today would probably be no different.
The sight outside my office was beautiful… The long cascading waterfall next to my office was flanked on either side by snow covered rocks. Icicles were beginning to form on the dripping rocks that overlook the falls. Immediately I wished I had my camera as the view was post card like. In some was it was a shame to have to walk to my truck and break the smooth white covering with my footprints. I couldn’t help but think how beautiful it was…..and how breathtaking…..and how cold….and wet…..and how it also means……. another F@*!*^g trainer ride. Damn I’m ready for summer……

Good new is that despite the crappy weather here in the south, training is in full swing and I feel as healthy as I ever had for this time of year even though my bike base is slightly down. I was pretty skeptical at first however I think the switch to from Pearl Izumi shoes to Saucony has helped me as my foot pain while running has been reduced drastically. I poured back over my logs recently and although I have been dealing with calf problems for several years now I believe the foot problems (Plantar issues) were caused by my running shoes as it coincided with the switch to a new model of PI shoes. So BIG thumbs up to Sacony shoes. Can’t wait to get new trail shoes as the season’s first Xterra is next month!

I also can’t wait until 21 March! Aside from it being ING weekend, I’ve signed on for Carole’s swim clinic she’s running in Atlanta. This will be the first time I have EVER had ANY swim coaching or instruction. Should be fun and interesting…….or maybe embarrassing……or whatever….man….it can’t make me swim any worse, that’s for sure!

Taper Madness.................

2009-11-05T09:11:00.000-08:00

I can’t believe all of my training comes down to this….WTF. This year I’ve battled back from yet another calf injury only to have this happen…. Saturday is B2B and there is no way I’ll be able to even finish it…..I can’t believe it.
In the last week I have somehow managed to gain at least 88 pounds… I didn’t weigh myself but I know I could easily enter as a Master Clydesdale. It had to be all those sausage biscuits I ate yesterday morning….I didn’t count but I know I ate at least 43, and drank a gallon of coke……
This morning I was brushing my teeth and I somehow managed to dislocate my shoulder….I haven’t gone to the doctor, but I know my arm is about to fall off. I think I have an ear infection and although I didn’t get it checked out I’m sure any moment I’m going to loose my hearing. On top of that I think I have swine flu............crap! I’m supposed to do a short ride and run today but I’m afraid that if I do I may not recover in time to eat dinner again tonight....... I’m so fat but I have to eat..eat...eat…
Damn I hate taper madness…….whatever man........

At least my bike is ready to roll!

And then there's Clay............

2009-10-30T07:55:00.000-07:00

When I'm not neglecting my family while I train or involved in one of my other pursuits, I work as a civilian mountaineering trainer for the US Army. The lion share of my job is training Rangers and soldiers for operations in the mountains and preparing them for the challenges they will encounter. I take this job very seriously as I feel that our soldiers are one one our nations most treasured assets as they do the things they do, so we may do the things we do. This has even become more important to me as I see my son growing up and leaning in the direction of following in my footsteps as a soldier, despite my efforts of trying to convince him to be a superhero, or multi-millionaire instead.... actually I couldn't be prouder.

Occasionally during the execution of my job I am afforded the opportunity to work with youth organization such as the Boy Scouts of America (I'm also Scoutmaster), Operation Purple which is an organization that develops programs for kids whose parents are in the military and are deployed, College ROTC programs, and High School JROTC. Unfortunately the image of these organizations are becoming less and less appealing to our kids these days as they are viewed many times as geeks, or nerds.....which I think is particularly funny as my son (my window to the teen world), who is also scout, has backpacked close to a thousand miles, rock climbs regularly, canoed hundreds of miles, has already camped more than most adults ever will in their lifetime, and was capable of surviving on his own in the wilderness at 14, is considered by the "popular" kids to be somewhat of a geek. Oh did I mention he also ran a 5:00 mile at 15. He told me once, " Dad, to be popular here in North Georgia, all you have to do is play football, wear a red baseball hat and tell everybody you're gonna go to UGA and play football for the Dawgs!" He and I both find this ironic as there has never been one person from his high school play football at UGA!

Thursday I worked with a JROTC group from an adjacent high school here in North Georgia. Many of the kids that join JROTC are kids that feel like they don't fit in anywhere else. I don't mean that in a derogatory way as my son is currently a Company Commander in the program, its just many of these kids although normal teens, just usually don't prescribe to the typical cliques, clubs, and athletics. They join to find others similar to them. Many of them will turn out to be natural leaders.

The buses rolled in around 9:15, parked and out spilled 89 teens dressed in ill-fitted Army uniforms that were were too big for most, and too small for some. Anxious for the exciting day of rappelling that awaited them they acted like typical teens, jabbering, and laughing loudly to hide their nervousness. Yes it was typical group of teenagers. We had girls scoping out the guys, and the guys attempting to act cool. We had the timid little skinny kid that looked to be closer to nine than fifteen who ended up being pretty damn tough! The fifteen year old that looked 25, the obnoxious kid that knows everything, the two drama queens that are always texting and are inseparable, the fat kid that is funny as hell, and the little girl that's not afraid of anything. Yep a normal group of teens. And then there was Clay........

The day started with fitting the kids in rappelling harnesses.....usually an easy task for me but imagine trying to put a pair of pants on a 89 house cats.... yep that's exactly what it was like. The we had to move these same kids into bleacher in front of the 30 foot rappelling tower. Now just imagine trying to push those 89 housecoats in pants, across a glass table.....yep that's exactly what it was like........ Once in the bleachers, we gave the house cats a short safety briefing and a rappelling demonstration. We then put on gloves and helmets, and lined them up in front of the stairs. As I was lining them up I asked their JROTC Instructor if there was anyone in the group that couldn't rappel for any reason. I do this so as not to embarrass them in front of their peers which, especially with the boys, I've found very easy to do. He told me there were several kids he knew to be afraid of heights, but should be able to do it, and there was one kid in a walking cast but other than that everybody should be OK.... And then there's Clay.....

Clay? I asked. Then very loudly the shouted "Clay....front and center!" Clay quickly as he could, shuffled to the front and snapped to the position of attention and said "Yes Sir?" Clay was slightly heavy for his age, and although standing rigidly as he could he had a slight stoop. His left arm was sharply tucked to his side however his right arm was bent and his hand slightly withered. The thick glasses on his face were sliding down his nose as he was slightly leaning forward. Clay despite his condition as I was to realize later, was a typical teenage boy. Cocky, but somewhat unsure of himself, in desperate need of approval, and wanted to just fit in like everybody else. Unfortunately for Clay, he has to work harder to do that, as well as at everything else, than anyone else. You see, Clay suffers from cerebral palsy. The instructor asked Clay if he wanted to do this? and looking excited and puzzled at both of us he said, "Yes sir, very much". Without thinking I told him to get in back of the line.

His instructor and I talked briefly and he told me how Clay just wants do what everyone else does. He told me that he has physical limitations of course but is capable of doing so much more than people allow him to do. People are afraid of him, but honestly I can understand how. He also told me that Clay never asks for any special attention. He fully understands his situation more than anyone else ever could. He deals with constant failure and rejection but for somehow remains upbeat. I assured his instructor that somehow I would make sure Clay rappels.

The day went smoothly as the kids began to cycle through the tower. We would hook them onto the rappel rope, talk them into the correct body position, and direct them over the edge of the tower. Most of the kids were very excited but slightly nervous, and many even took a little coaxing. But once they were over the edge most of them realized how easy it was, and wanted a second or even a third try. There were a few that were actually terrified....these were easy to spot as they outwardly displayed signs and symptoms of stark fear....dry mouth, nervous twitching and laughter, jerky movements, pale lips, and even belching..... all standard signs. Only three refused to go over the edge and did the walk of shame back down the stairs. Of course we had several of kids that were starved for attention and made a huge show for everyone, claiming to be frightened but displaying none of the signs, however there was lots of fake crying, and demanding of constant attention on them all the way down to the ground. Of course once they were down they focused their efforts elsewhere to gain attention on another adult or teacher. Next were the ones that were just plain lazy....always a couple of them. And then there's Clay........

Clay was one of the last kids in line. I talked to casually for a couple of minutes to determine if he was nervous. Strangely he seemed perfectly calm. I asked him if he was worried or scared, and he admitted that he was a little worried. When I asked him why, I was surprised to find out that his concern wasn't the height or fear of injury but he was afraid I wasn't going to let him rappel because he couldn't seem to get one of his gloves on his withered hand. He said it was OK if he couldn't go because he understood he needed gloves. He was just happy that we let him climb to the top of the tower. At this point I actually had to force back tears. At this point there was no way in hell I was going to let Clay walk back down those stairs.

I worked for several minutes helping get the glove on his right hand only to have it fall off again, and again. We both laughed several times as we worked his fingers one by one into the thick leather gloves only to have them curl back out. It was at this point I realized that Clay wasn't going to have the strength nor the coordination to hold himself in the proper position and I began to worry. Clay told me several times, "Mr. David, its OK, its OK". So I looked Clay in the eyes and told him, "No it's not, wait right here". I ran down the stairs to grab my personal harness and a few additional pieces of equipment. Since it was obvious to me Clay wasn't going to be able to do this on his own, I would do it with him. My plan was this... I would hook on to the rappel rope and then suspend clay in front of me from the rappel device much as I would an injured climber being evacuated from a cliff. We would go down together.

When I arrived back on top with my equipment I explained what we were going to do and Clay said " I'll try". I replied, "Dude, that's the spirit". Getting Clay attached to me was a chore it in itself. This was when I realized the effort Clay has demonstrate just to do things we take for granted. Sitting down, consisted of him lowering himself down to the floor lying on his side, and me grabbing him and helping him to a sitting position. Although this seems like it must have been a terribly sad and disturbing sight we both were laughing hysterically the entire time as we both realized how silly we must look.....like a bad wrestling match. Once I had him safely connected to me, and sitting on the edge of the tower I asked if he was ready, and he said, "I think so". As we slid over the edge and we were hanging together on the rope, all of 88 kids below were cheering loudly for Clay, as they had been watching the entire time. They continued to cheer and chant his name as we descended the 30 feet to the ground. Once we were on the ground many rushed over to congratulate him and pat him on the back. Clay was beaming. Clay thanked me several times for letting him rappel. Finally I told him to never let anyone tell you what you are capable of doing, you decide that for yourself, and and always maintain that "I'll try" attitude.

After the excitement died down, we collected all of the equipment, and put it away and loaded the kids on the bus, and they were on their way. My coworker and I were discussing the days activities, when he said to me, "You know Dave, I feel sorry for Clay". I thought about that for a second or two and I replied... "I don't. Although I hate it that Clay has the physical challenges that he has, his determination and his attitude to which he seems to approach life with, I actually envy. Clay inspired me today".

I have been plagued periodically over the several years with calf injuries. These have been demoralizing to me at times as even this year I've seen my race season change drastically as I recover from yet another muscle tear. But these injuries pale in comparison to the physical challenges that Clay goes through every day. I can only imagine how it must feel at any age, much less at 15 to see your physical abilities diminish more and more each year to a point where sitting up or holding a fork is a challenge. So from now on when my calf injuries flair up I will always try to remember Clay and look at what I can do rather than the limitations that I have.

Got tires and a cassette on my new race wheels.......$230.......ughhhhhhh..... Wanted to give them a spin today but since its raining looks like I'm in for a trainer ride. Race wheel test will have to wait s0, whatever man!

Got a new pair of shoes today........

2009-10-29T13:17:00.000-07:00

Race wheels arrive today and I can't be more excited! Planet X Pro carbon 50s! They look awesome and I can't wait to get tires on them. Gonna give them a spin tomorrow! For some reason I'm much more excited about these than I was for my first set of Zipps...... Maybe because not only will I be fast, now I can afford to eat!
Other news...Looks like team Trakkers has teamed up with 1st Endurance for Race nutrition. Heard some awesome stuff about it and I cant wait to give it a try. Great to have an alternative to Perpetum ( or baby formula as its called by a very good friend), Hammer Gel, and Heed........ Plus they have an awesome website! Checkout the link.
Putting the 2010 Race schedle together soon. Rev 3 Half in Knoxville right now looks like my early season A race.....sure wish somebody would put on a late season HIM in Atlanta....Whatever Man.....
Supposed to be a rest day I feel pretty good so I'm headed to the lake for a OWS!

10 Days until B2B!

2009-10-28T18:11:00.000-07:00

Only 10 days left until B2B....... Although my training volume has been significantly lower than last year due to work and injuries... I feel strong and am confident I can post a pretty good finish time somewhere in the low 5 hour range. Is sub 5 hr possible?

I am somewhat disappointed that I won't be doing the Full Iron Distance race this year. I was looking forward to improving on last years finish time. Even though I'm sure I could finish the full I realize there would be a significant possibility of me re-injuring my calf again..... can't let that happen.

Good news! I expect my new race wheels to arrive tomorrow! Not Zipps but whatever man.... I've been racing on clinchers since I sold my Litespeed Saber last year so it's going to be nice to get back on tubulars...... Planet X's kick ass..... I hope!

What the hell am I doing........

2009-10-14T13:10:00.000-07:00

As if I didn't already have enough crap on my plate I decide to give blogging a try. Seems like a great way to share with the world (well....my little world anyway) a glimpse into my storybook life........
So sit back, and prop up your feet, because once I include you in my life you'll guaranteed to feel better about your own life....... and like I always say..... Whatever man..............