Wrapping Up Loose Ends...And Looking Ahead!

Time for honesty (I sense some of you don't believe everything I have blogged about to this point!) Approximately 5 months ago, the thought of running 39.3 miles over two days seemed pretty daunting. Yet, the body can achieve, what the mind believes! And I believed that completing the Goofy Challenge was possible. I had a training plan - and I stuck to it! Along the way, I learned a lot about myself, blood related cancers, and the spirit of teamwork and camaraderie.

Just over 7 years ago, I finished my only other marathon in Tampa. Each weekend, I did a long distance training run, which I simply dreaded. I counted down the days to the marathon, and willed it to happen ASAP. I did not have the right frame of mind, and subsequently, while I was able to say I completed a marathon (and in the process check the box on a life experience), I did not enjoy the journey. Back then I was only concerned about the final destination.

I can truly say that I ran with renewed energy and enthusiasm over the 532 miles I put in since September 15, 2007. I looked forward to every step of the journey, and chose to share it with others. In the process it was FUN! This wasn't just about turning 40. It was about helping the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in the process and doing something special with the effort. I had done training runs with Team-In-Training people in 2000 for Tampa, but did not have the benefit of their "experience". However, I can now serve as an advocate. From the staff in the Western NC - Charlotte Office (Stacey - at left & Abby), to our coaches (Bryan, Garrett, Darren & Angela), our mentor (Sheila), to my weekend running pals who were training for runs in Disney and Phoenix, TNT knows how to make the most of the participants willingness to be extraordinary. I may have been a runner before - but I became a runner with purpose.

If I have a hope for those of you who have followed me from the beginning, joined in somewhere along the way, or shared my story with others, it is that my effort may serve as an inspiration to you or someone you know to try something that seems impossible. It is easy to say "I can't run" or "I don't have the time". Whether you choose to do something with TNT, or simply participate on your own, all running events accept runners and walkers. All that is needed is your commitment and a positive attitude.

I was on a tremendous high last Sunday morning - a top 5 life experience! This week has felt like something is missing. As someone who is driven by setting and achieving personal goals, I had just accomplished a major one, and didn't know what the future would bring. During those last 3 miles of the marathon, I was saying to myself "never again - stick to the half-marathon where you can excel." Well, the competitor in me has decided that I have unfinished business in the marathon - a sub 4 hour finish!

So, here's the deal. I am participating with Team-In-Training again for their spring season, and will be a marathoner in the Country Music Marathon on April 26, 2008 in Nashville, TN!

Each of you has supported me this far - so I ask for your support only if you feel a burning need to sponsor me again. You have provided so much encouragement and financial support already, I cannot thank you enough. If you decide you need that 2008 tax deduction, you can donate by clicking here. After that, who knows what my next great personal goal with be.

If you have been reading my blog from the beginning, you know that I have some loose ends to tie up:

• I didn't lose enough weight to fit into size 31 pants. Or 32s. I believe the size 32 3/4 are fitting perfectly now (but I am keeping the stretchy pants just in case)
• Mom and Dad both called on the afternoon of the marathon under the guise of congratulating me. Secretly, I think they wanted to make sure I was still alive. Nonetheless, I did them proud!
• I promised I would "go the extra mile" (or .7 to be exact) during the weekend to round up my total distance to 40 miles (one for each year). I did just that on Saturday running through the EPCOT parking lot to find Brenda at mile 12, and then ran back to see her finish. It may have been more than .7, but let's just call it an even 40 and not get picky!
• I needed a running theme song - and received 1000's (ahem) of suggestions from my loyal readers (ahem). So, like the suggestions received (ok - I'll say it...none), I decided I didn't need a theme song on my MP3 player. I may have carried it with me on the Goofy runs, but I am proud to say I completed 39.3 miles without any music aid! And no matter what anyone tells you, it is not a small world after all!
• As we remember what is important in life, the little things make a big difference. Sue's trip to Disney with her family made a big difference to me and won't soon be forgotten. As did all the stories about people impacted by a blood related cancer that I learned about during my training.
• My ankle presented no issues throughout the Disney Marathon Weekend. Thankfully! I was quite worried two months earlier and wrapping/taping it for most training runs. It is full speed ahead for Nashville!
• Qualified for Boston!!!! Uh...no.
• Staying true to myself, I inhaled (ate slowly) 3 chocolate donuts after the marathon for proper nutritional replenishment. And then had 3 more for breakfast the next day just to make sure. They didn't have any jelly filled ones at the store. I filled out a store recommendation card so the next person could benefit from my awareness.
• This wouldn't have been anywhere close to being possible without the support of my three biggest cheerleaders. Two of them think I won both legs of the Goofy Challenge. The third one knows better and since she "won" her own medal as well, I had to let her in on my little secret...
• And finally, along the way, you learned the 'true history' of the Goofy Challenge. Goofy may have avoided me all weekend long, but I was determined to provide photo documentation of the results...

I DID IT !!!

Thank you for your incredible support and for sharing the Team-In-Training/Goofy Challenge/39.3 and Counting journey with me! I hope you will join me in a few years when I attempt an ULTRA MARATHON. I can see the theme forming already....50 @ 50!

Your Goofy Guy,

Ken (39.3 and Counting)

A complete photo album of the weekend can be found at: http://393andcounting.shutterfly.com/action/?a=1AauGjVk1YsXlQ&notag=1

Go Ken, Go...You Can Do It!

When we last left our Hydrated Hero (please, give me something), he had just crossed the finish line of Donald Duck's race, the Walt Disney World Half Marathon. Let's pick up where we left off on Saturday morning.

After completing the half-marathon, and going back to watch Brenda finish her first long distance race, it was only about 9:30 am. I was doing my best to stretch out my legs, as they were quite tight, and I began to look ahead to Sunday. Of most critical importance was getting some rest, as I was "running" on fumes. The prior 3 evenings provided for about 10 - 12 hours of sleep. But, I was wired and did what any Disney runner would have done...sought out a photo with Mickey Mouse! And Donald! No Goofy...yet.

Unfortunately sleep in the hotel was hard to come by. However, I was looking forward to a late afternoon visit with a good friend who came to town to cheer me on. Sue and John Mulkern, and their daughter, Genevieve, made the trip to Orlando to catch me at the Disney Marathon Weekend, before heading on a Disney cruise. This was extra special for each of us, as Sue (one of my co-workers) had lost her father to a form of Lymphoma in December (an earlier blog entry), and John let me know his dad is currently a Lymphoma survivor. While I knew they were in town, and I thought it was to be at the marathon finish, I learned they were at the finish of the half-marathon and saw me finish!

We met up for dinner at the Coronado Springs - where I was able to award "My Champion" medals to them - given to race participants to share with those who support their efforts. And, of course, the littlest supporter of all gave me the biggest boost of confidence with an infectious smile and a GO, KEN, GO sign!

That evening I learned of my first wardrobe malfunction. My purple TNT jersey, to be worn on marathon day, was provided to me a week earlier and was quickly washed/dried. I happened to try it on Saturday evening, only to find it INCREDIBLY itchy on my back. Upon closer inspection, we found there was glue residue on the inside. No way I could run with the feeling of pin pricks wreaking havoc on my body. PLAN A: A quick call to my TNT coach revealed that no extra jerseys were available. PLAN B: We cut up an old cotton t-shirt from our luggage, and pinned it to the inside back of the jersey. Functional, but not idea.

About 6 hours of sleep later, Brenda and I were up and moving at 2:30 to meet with my TNT running mates. Spirits were high, smiles were abounding, and hydrating was occurring. I must recognize Brenda for being a huge cheerleader - she has been at some of my previous races, but never up so early! But her sign, made on behalf of our kids, would make it easy for me to find her on the course (I don't know about that 'winning the race' thing though...)
The next 3 hours in the parking lot waiting area and runners retreat tent went by quickly as I visualized the next 5 hours. Disney must have wanted us to get a head start on the 26.2 miles, as they had us walk .7 miles today to get to the start line! Now you read earlier this week about the need to fertilize the bushes, so I won't bore you with my multiple visits to nature's bathroom now. Rather, I'd like to share how runners are a strange bunch - specifically female runners! Most choose to wait in the line for the porta-a-lets. But I witnessed the strange bonding of women travelling "in packs" to smell the newly planted Disney flowers! Some were bold, and simply determined that venturing into the underbrush was not desirable, so they stayed on the perimeter of the forest to "drop trow". It may have been dark out, but there was more than one full moon visible! I must admit, I was awestruck...and laughing quite hard! It took my mind off the 5 hour visualization mentioned earlier. Then there were the "bodyguard packs", a minimum of three women bonding for the journey to the john. Two stand guard, backs to the 'reliever' while forming a human wall to shield their comrade from impending bullets. Let's face it - everyone has to go, and when it's time, it's time. And it is time to get on with the marathon, as I have been rambling.

100% humidity at the start of the race did not bode well for my modified jersey. It was soaking before the gun went off. That's when I realized wardrobe malfunction #2 was going to be an issue. The string used to tie my running shorts tight had slipped into the waistband and could not be retrieved. Uh-oh. This in itself would not have been so bad, had it not been combined with the fact that my shorts had pockets in the back which held my MP3 and 4 energy gel packets. That extra weight was going to cause "runners crack" within the first 1/4 mile! And, to make matters worse, I had a small hip pack for my disposable camera which was to clip to my shorts as well. Uh-oh #2. This was not how I wanted to start my 26.2 mile journey.

At this point, I was fretting the humidity, with visions of the recent Chicago Marathon debacle dancing in my head. And worrying about how my running would be impacted when my shorts were around my ankles. And that's when I realized I had made tactical mistake number #3 with the wardrobe. It was 6:00 am, and sunrise wasn't until about 7:25 am. Yet I had my sunglasses and cool max running hat with me, only adding to the sweat pouring down my face and back. Remember when I said Brenda would be on the course cheering me on? I could have easily given these to her to give back to me when I would see her at mile 9. Dummy.

Anyway, the first 13 miles were quite uneventful. I was managing a comfortable 10:00/mile pace and feeling quite good. Running through EPCOT at miles 2 - 3 provided the opportunity I had been dreaming about for months - a photo with a princess! In this instance, it was Jasmine and Genie (oh, I wish for mile 25...). Big smiles, good photo, and off and running again in the darkness. Mile 9 allowed me to drop off my hat, glasses and hip pack with Brenda - each of which I had carried in my hands since the start of the race. I only kept the camera for photo opps in the Magic Kingdom.

The jog through the Magic Kingdom was outstanding, just like the day before. Thousands of spectators and wonderful energy led to big smiles for the camera coming through Cinderella's Castle. While Alice may not be an official princess, a blond girl in an apron provided many thoughts (c'mon, I was in Fantasyland! Work with me here. I am a writer, not a porn star...although I wonder what the dude with the video camera was doing??). Even Woody and Jessie gave me a pat on the back in Frontierland before sending me on my way....for the longest 13 miles of my life!!!

Brenda and I connected around mile 13 at the Grand Floridian hotel. It was at this point I unloaded the camera, grabbed my sunglasses, and told her "this is when the race begins. I am going to sprint to the finish!" HA! Jokes on him! I was still managing a 10:00/mile pace, but felt that the miles were beginning to take their toll. I was hydrating at every mile, alternating between water and Powerade, but was forcing it down. By around mile 17, we had passed through the Animal Kingdom (quite uneventful), and for the first time I stopped to drink my water, and grab a sponge they were providing on the course. Carried that damn sponge for the next 9 miles, wetting it every mile. The sun was peeking in and out of the clouds, and while the humidity was letting up, it was too little, too late to provide any form of relief.

Let me clarify something - I was not miserable or complaining! This is what running a marathon is all about - pushing the limits and fighting the mind games. I was counting down the miles one at a time, and pushing away thoughts about walking. I was remembering Omar from the TNT dinner two nights earlier, who shared his emotional story of overcoming renal failure, a kidney transplant, and a form of lymphoma to complete the Disney Half Marathon last year. I thought of Sue's dad and her presence supporting me. I kept thinking about the t-shirts I had seen all weekend long "If you think completing a marathon is hard, trying doing chemotherapy". I thought about my grandmother, who suffered a stroke 5 days earlier, and was going to have a much more difficult road ahead to recovery than I would after completing 39.3 miles. And I thought of all of my sponsors - the great supporters who helped me get this far and believed in me! I was 9 miles from the finish of an incredible journey and was going to push through! Unfortunately, I am not sure all the spectators and Team-In-Training coaches stationed along the course saw it that way! I may have looked like I was on death's doorstep.

I was tired and fading. As I often do when running, I began to focus inward rather than on my surroundings. My sunglasses dropped from being propped on my head down to their rightful place - concealing worried eyes. Acknowledging those calling out my name (as it was on our running bibs) went from a wave and smile early in the marathon, to small lip movement (I hope it wasn't perceived as a snarl! Do I even know how to snarl???), and a barely perceptible "thumbs up". I thought to myself, "I am never going to do this again."

The cheering kept me going. Mile 19 turned to mile 21, which turned to mile 23 going through Hollywood Studios. Still managing that 10:00/mile pace. Behind the Tower of Terror, volunteers handed out chocolate (yippee - a smile - barely), and I grabbed a Nestle Crunch bar and put it in my back pocket (you see, that was ok to carry and weigh down my shorts, because it was chocolate. There are trade-offs one makes in life, and I chose chocolate over butt-crack).

I honestly don't remember much of running through Hollywood Studios. I saw Woody and Jessie again (damn, they were quicker than me!), the red Power Ranger (my son, Ryan, would've given him a high five... I simply moved my lips - snarl), and Tow Mater from Cars looked all guilty just sitting there (hey - give me a tow to the finish!). I was determined to run through the main street area there, where more people were lined up....and then I needed to walk. I gave in once outside the Studios. Three miles to go and I was fried. But the people in line to get into the Studios were still cheering me on...telling me I could do it...calling me by name...telling me I was almost there. Guilt set in, and after about a minute I started running again...only to stop a few minutes later. At this point, I decided it would be wise to switch to an alternative training method - the run/walk method (ok, it wasn't really a method for me, I was a necessity). I walked when I was tired, only to find out my right shin hurt badly and the only way to make the pain go away was to...run. Damn. Somebody wanted me to finish! I contemplated that for a moment while I ate my Nestle Crunch bar - didn't want it to melt in my shorts after all.

Two miles to go. The Disney Boardwalk area became a blur. Go feet, go. Walk. Run (crawl?). Anything to keep moving to the end. I wish I could have enjoyed the run through EPCOT at mile 25 more, but I had pulled into a shell....until we hit the crowds lined up in Future World with a 1/2 mile go. Sudden inspiration!!! Energy!!! Pride!!! And the gospel choir!!! They were so uplifting that I raised my arms up with them in praise - and applauded them for their efforts. I knew the finish line was 200 yards ahead, and when I rounded the final bend, I would step out into the cheers of the thousands of family, friends and others who came to support someone in the marathon.

I wish everyone could share the feeling I had at that moment. Total elation! The adrenaline I had thoroughly spent for the past 26 miles came back in a final rush. My lips curved upward and formed a smile - bigger than ever! My thumbs moved with the rest of my hands...and arms...high into the air...and I waved to the crowd.! I knew that somewhere in the stands were Brenda, Sue, John, Genevieve and my TNT coaches were cheering me on...and as I approached the finish line of my journey (which truly started over 18 months earlier)...where I would be able to rest for the first time in 4:28:35...I felt as if I could go another few miles! I had completed the Goofy Challenge - 39.3 miles...and in the process created memories that will never be forgotten!

Since this was the 15th year of the Walt Disney World Marathon, finishers were awarded a special Mickey Mouse commemorative medal. I got the bling! But more importantly, I was reunited with those who supported me that day...and the emotions came through. And where was that Goofy? I was due for praise - and one final photo!

On Sunday evening, TNT had a celebration dinner for participants. Running stories - good and bad - were shared. My running partner fo the past few months, Lynn, had finish one minute ahead of me and was feeling good. Pictures were taken. Smiles were plenty. And discussions of new marathon conquests had already started. I could do this again...

If you have made it with me this far...congratulations to you as well...I am sure it isn't easy reading about someone else's journey. It may be like seeing 100's of pictures of somebody else's family vacation. However, since you have come this far, stay with me for another few days for some final thoughts on the 39.3 and Counting journey!

Marathon Mile Split Times:

1 - 10:06

2/3 - 21:56 (Jasmine was waiting!)

4/5 - 20:43

6 - 9:35

7 - 9:36

8 - 9:11

9/10 - 18:27

11 - 9:50

12 - 9:18

13 - 9:33

14 - 9:36

15 - 9:59

16 - 9:32

17 - 9:50

18 - 10:26

19 - 10:27

20 - 10:51

21 - 9:59

22 - 11:03

23 - 10:35

24 - 11:35

25 - 13:00

26.2 - 13:19

Note to Self - Don't Drink So Much

By now you might already know the results - I am certifiably Goofy! But then you may have already known that too. As many runners have come to say after running in Disney - "I ROCKED THE WORLD!" 39.3 miles...and then some!!!

Sure, I did not finish on the podium, but I did come out a winner! As I have shared my running experiences, and other random thoughts, over the past few months, I hope you will indulge me for a few more days, by reading my blog for a recap of the Disney Marathon Weekend.

Half-Marathon

I departed Charlotte Friday with every expectation of kicking butt both days. First place, baby. Twice. Breaking the tape. World records. Multiple interviews. Glossy photos. Front page news on the Disney website. It was my destiny. (writer's embellishment).

How could it not be my destiny. The pilot our USAIRWAYS flight to Orlando made an announcement during the taxi process that special guests were on board. “Please welcome the Bansemer’s…Ken and Brenda”. True story. It was karma. Everyone knew a dignitary was in their midst, but had no clue why. (Of course, it didn’t hurt that the friends watching our kids this past weekend are air traffic controllers and had our flight itinerary. Hey – it was special anyway!). However, I played it cool and didn't run up and down the aisle of the plane high-fiving everyone like you thought I might. I have some class. Some. So, we just swaggered in our seats since we were taxiing after all and didn't want to get yelled at.

The weather was sunny, as always, in Orlando – unfortunately it was also very warm. Near 80 Friday afternoon, which didn’t bode well for the next morning – a projected low of 60 for Saturday morning at 6:00 a.m, with near 100% humidity expected. Say it with me now – ugghhhh!!! However, there was no turning back and my excitement was mounting.

I met with my Team-In-Training group and we headed over to the Marathon Expo to pick up our race gear – bibs, chips, shirts, and other assorted goodies – at the Wide World of Sports complex. Notice how many men were from Charlotte. Destiny I tell you...

When you look up the word “lines” in the dictionary, there must be a picture of Disney World. The kind folks at Disney developed a process whereby participants had to wait in four separate lines to get these items. Just like the rides, that took close to two hours. My feet were starting to hurt! But the countdown clock at the Expo said it all – 38 hours, 59 minutes and 4 seconds until the start of the marathon. Or, just over 14 hours until the start of my warm up run – the half marathon.

Back to Coronado Springs on the Disney Bus we went, for one hour of rest before heading out to the Team-In-Training pre-race pasta dinner. Let me give you all a little tip should you try to replicate this effort. There are two seating times for dinner – one at 2:30 pm, and one at 6:30 pm. Be smart – take the early dinner. I didn’t have a choice, but I wish I did. Dinner, slide shows, video, guest speakers – TNT did put on a show. A show that went until almost 9:00 pm, with multiple reference to how we may as well stay up, since we have to get up at 2:30 am to catch a bus to the starting line (at this point, I was sensing another line to stand in). The evening was quite energizing however, as dinner was held within the EPCOT World Showcase, and to enter the reception hall, all 2000 TNT participants (yes 2000!) had to pass by TNT Coaches from around the country who were celebrating our arrival in a boisterous fashion. Deafening! I honestly thought it was a show going on at the Morocco country showcase nearby! That welcome set the tone for the rest of the weekend – the spirit and energy of the TNT participants, coaches, and even spectators was overwhelming! A real adrenaline rush….then I tried to crash and fall asleep.

Apparently, the big guy upstairs had other plans for me. While my head hit the pillow at 9:30 pm, stage 1 of REM didn’t start until sometime after midnight. Maybe it was nervous energy, maybe it was Brenda’s snoring (just kidding dear), maybe it was bad pasta (it definitely wasn’t the large chocolate cookie or lemon bars…those were good!). Whatever the reason, the 3 alarms we set to ensure we woke up came far too early. This is what it looked like to get dressed at 2:50 am. Say it with me now….ugghhhh! I wanted my blanky...

Another bus to the start of the ½ marathon. Or more accurately, .6 miles from the start line, which we had to walk to at about 5:30 am. So, if you are tracking with me at this point, you may be asking yourself the same questions I did. Bus over at 3:30, start at 6:00…2 ½ hours unaccounted for. What did you do during that time??? Well, I am glad you asked. Hydrating. Pics with Mickey and Minnie. Hydrating. Banana eating. Hydrating. Yes, by 5:00 am it was time to pee. Wheeeee!!! (or should I say wee-wee…)

Thankfully, we had purchased the “Runners Retreat” package for the weekend races, which meant I had full access to specially designated Port-a-lets (lets just call it a potty) with little to no wait. If you have ever been to a big race before, the lines for these “potty’s” can get quite long. So a few (yes, few) trips later, it was about 5:15 (yes, twice in 15 minutes) and time for a last photo with Mickey (also a privilege of the “package”) and off to the start line.

You would never guess that in the time it takes to walk .6 miles that one could possibly need to “relieve” oneself another 2 – 3 times. Man, was I hydrated! But, there was a “wee” little problem here (FYI – it is time to stop writing in a blog when bathroom humor makes an appearance – but I don’t get to do this often!). I was out of the retreat area, and amongst the throngs of others who were over-hydrated as well, meaning the Disney-like lines had formed at the common folk potty’s. Guess they weren't on my plane to recognize that a dignitary was walking funny near them. Never fear though. Disney thought of everything, and must have apparently planted new bushes or trees in the past few weeks, because everyone was going over to admire and provide fertilization for them. I felt compelled to do the same. A few times. Ok, three. Now leave me alone, I just want to run.

Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy kicked off the start with the National Anthem (I really wish Donald had a solo for that), and fireworks signaled the start of the race – 13.1 miles through the Magic Kingdom and Epcot and the roads in-between. Over 13,000 people started the race, and participants were split into 3 waves. I found myself in wave 1 (a clear indication that the Disney folks have heard of my running prowess), and with my disposable camera in tow, off I went. Donald even met me at the starting line for a photo. I am not sure why he was behind the barrier, other than he may have been concerned that I was going to need to relieve myself one final time…

For the next 13.1 miles, I ran like I never did before – with a huge smile plastered across my face. I was going to enjoy this experience if it killed me. Fortunately, I was having a blast – and did something I rarely do – ran without music playing on my MP3 player. There were bands and DJs spaced throughout the course, along with many spectators to urge you on. Perhaps the biggest thrill of the run was going through the Ticket & Transportation Center at the Magic Kingdom, and then running on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom, where a few thousand people were lined up. This beat the adrenaline rush from the night before. They were loud and my smile grew bigger. You would’ve thought I was winning the race!

What started as a 9:44 mile pace for mile one, had progressed to a 8:45 pace by mile 7 past the Magic Kingdom. I was feeling great and passing people with ease. Stupid, stupid, stupid. I knew I was going to pay for this the next day in the marathon. For those who know me when it comes to sports, it's 110% or nothing. Stupid slogan "give 110%". Those people never run long distances. But I had a ½ marathon goal, and that was to break 2 hours (about a 9:09/mile pace), and I fell behind that early on.

Friends...have faith.

As you will see below, I ran a negative split – the second half of the race was quicker than the first half, and my last few miles were completed in just over an 8:15/mile pace! Coming around the final bend in EPCOT, runners went past an amazing gospel choir decked out in gold robes singing to the heavens, and then we burst out towards the finish line – a 200 yard stretch with thousands of spectators cheering you on. Another adrenaline rush!!! I was on a runners high!

Finish Time: 1:53:37 (8:40/mile)
Finish Place: 964/12288 (top 8% whoo-hooo!)

While I didn’t finish first, I was awarded a Donald Duck medal anyway (ssshh – my kids think I won the first part of the Goofy Challenge). My presenter was no Ms. Bass Lake - SHE WAS BETTER!!!

I went back out to mile 12 on the course to await Brenda, who was doing her first ½ marathon ever. Injuries slowed her down during the month of December, but she persevered through the elements as well and finished in 2:38:01. (She is in Orange/Blue sprinting to the finish!) A great day for the Bansemer’s!

One third of the goal accomplished, two-thirds to go Sunday morning. And Goofy still hadn’t tracked me down for a photo. He hates confrontation and admitting he could have been wrong about me. I'd show him.

Details of the marathon and the wardrobe malfunctions will come in a few days! And a special visit from some friends (no, not Goofy)! And my thoughts on doing this all again!

Thanks for staying with me….you don't want this journey to end either, do you?

Half Marathon results: http://results.active.com/pages/searchform.jsp?rsID=51041

Half Marathon Mile Splits
1 – 9:44.08
2 – 9:18.87
3 – 9:10.65
4/5 – 17:28.21
6 – 8:52.25
7 – 8:44.77
8 – 8:24.21
9 – 8:15.29
10 – 8:01.25
11 – 8:22.14
12 – 8:11.86
13.1 – 9:04.13

Around the World in ...

.... a day-and-a-half??? Ok, I may be slow, but even 38 hours is a stretch for me! It may have been possible had I waited in "E ticket" lines (a reference for you Disney oldies out there!) for rides at each park and stopped in for a character breakfast or two (since I was up at 2:30 am each day).

Since the Disney "runner alert" tracker didn't work as planned, you may not know how, or if, I finished the half and full marathons. They say a picture is worth a thousand words...and a well placed palm tree conveniently concealing my time is worth many more!

For full results (meaning...if you really want to see how fast or slow I was, you are going to have to work some for it!), check out the Disney Marathon results page at: http://disneyworldsports.disney.go.com/dwws/en_US/marathon/listing?name=MarathonEventListingPage2&bhcp=1

For the rest of the story (teaser: multiple wardrobe malfunctions), and many more pictures, please return in a few days. You'll have to cut me some slack as I try to get some rest. After all, a 38-hour 39.3 mile run for this near 40 year-old has left me exhausted!!!

M - I - C......See You Real Soon....

The “brilliant” thought, which originated sometime in 2006, may have seemed like it was straight from a fairy tale: Make turning 40 memorable – a HAPPY occasion. From that simple thought grew what some would say was a MICKEY MOUSE idea…running all GOOFY like throughout Walt Disney World for 39.3 miles.

DONALD, my dad, had a reaction that was typical of most... like Iwas from another planet such as PLUTO. Rather than put out that much effort, he suggested I run a MINNIE marathon. Now, I may be DOPEY at times, but I certainly am not BASHFUL at attempting something new and different.

So, for further inspiration, I signed up with Team-In-Training in the summer of 2007. It turns out that was a great decision. I told my team CAPTAIN, “I’m HOOKed”! CHIP, DALE, DAISY and the triplets, HUEY, DEWEY and LOUIE have each provided great motivation as running partners over the past 4 months.

The training runs haven’t all been easy, and I often arrive home (my personal castle) to find our cat, TIGGER, rubbing against my sore WOODY-like legs. He doesn’t understand...I need to rest my sore PIGs, LETting them recover. After putting in over 30 miles each week, I am POOHped. Most Saturdays, I am SLEEPY after a good workout, and I have tried to be careful about not overtraining. However, I did get injured briefly in November, and went to see the DOC, who told me to take it easy. But like a postal carrier, neither rain, sleet or SNOW, WHITE and cold as it may be, has kept me from making my appointed training rounds.

I have enjoyed blogging about this MISSION TO MARS, and am thankful that loyal readers and financial supporters like ALICE, ARIEL, BELLE and JASMINE have kept me focused on the ultimate end goal. At times, I may have looked like a TRAMP, flopped around like a FLOUNDER, and got lost in my own FANTASYLAND, but my old LADY has made sure I stayed well grounded (ouch...but you have to admit, it works!).

So, tomorrow morning, I am off to the “Happiest Place on Earth”, and hope for a little race day magic to carry me along. If my happy feet can’t do the job, I will seek alternative forms of transportation, such as ALADDIN’s magic carpet, TINKER BELL’s pixie dust (and faith and trust), a monorail, or even a leisurely JUNGLE CRUISE to make the 39.3 miles through the COUNTRY BEAR-able. At the end, the even JAMBOREE at Pleasure Island should rock!

One can only hope the weather will cooperate. After all, I have created a lot of BUZZ about this challenge, and warm temperatures could cause me to take many a LIGHTYEAR to cross the finish line. Even if that is the case, it will all be worth it. After all, I will finish with a huge smile, arms raised, chest puffed, and prove I am no DUMBO. I can already see the headline next week…

“Finishing 1st in the Walt Disney World Marathon (and Half!) - MR. INCREDIBLE!”

Now that’s a fairy tale!

P.S. - Grandma - I'll be thinking of you every step of the way!

Are You Following Me?

For the loyal readers of my 39.3 and counting blog (are there any???), I know you are sad that the entries are quickly coming to an end with race weekend approaching. You have endured my ups-and-downs over the past 4+ months, and probably like me, are saying to yourself "let's do it!" Of course, you are saying that from the comfort of your couch, recliner, bed or bathtub, while I have been muttering it during the course of the 500 or so miles I have run since September.

Well, never fear. The Wonderful World of Disney has thought of it all, and is allowing the folks at home to run along with me on race day! Free of charge too - most un-Disney like! I've heard your rumblings - "nuts", "stupid", "why", "Goofy" and even "Goofus". You have questioned my sanity, my love for chocolate, and choice of TV shows, but so far, I haven't heard you question my running ability. WHEW!

Therefore, from the comfort of your own home, you can check out my progress (during the marathon only) during race day (Jan 13) by using the link below. They have made it simple - create a login, enter my name, and determine the method (text, email, pager) by which you want to be notified of my split times at various points during the marathon. What better way to be entertained during a Sunday morning while you are all at mass. Hee-hee. A few "AMENs" in my honor during service wouldn't hurt. And slip in a few prayers for me with big Guy while you are at at!

http://www.activeresult.com/results/MSG-signup.tcl?sub_event_id=4447

Now mind you, gun time on each day is 6:00 am EST. That is 5:00 am for my many friends in the CST, and 3:00 am on the west coast. Make sure you set those alarms to go off early to follow along real-time. 'Cause like most elite runners, I don't plan on dilly-dallying around on the course. That is, unless I spot a princess calling me over for a photo opp, a donut stand, a massage table, a waiting monorail, or something else I might love as a distraction around mile 17. For me, it's all about setting the right priorities!

The History of the Goofy Challenge

The upcoming running weekend has me giddy with excitement. But perhaps not for the reasons you think. Now don't get me wrong, I am running for some wonderful causes. Raising money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society has brought me great satisfaction. I have never tried my hand at fundraising, and to have over 90 individuals contribute nearly $7,000 to LLS in support of my running effort is really amazing. The other great cause is to celebrate my journey to another age milestone. Turning 40 could be viewed by many as a depressing time. While I have mixed thoughts about it since I don't feel 40, and certainly don't act 40 (let alone 20), I have decided to make it quite special by running 39.3 miles (and then some) at the Disney World Marathon Weekend.

While good reasons to be excited, I have one greater reason. I will be reunited with my good friend, Goofy. You see, we go way back. My first trip to Disney was in the early 1970's, and during multiple visits since then, the big fella and I have renewed acquaintances and swapped stories. In 1990 (left photo), I was working out regularly and Disney hadn't even held their Marathon Weekend. At that time, we discussed the possibility of a footrace throughout the Magic Kingdom, but lets face it, it is difficult to have a deep conversation while racing down the water slides. However, Goofy eventually agreed to discuss my thoughts with his good friend, some mousy guy named Mickey. Wouldn't you know it, three years later the Walt Disney Marathon was born (and I had a hand in it)! When I returned in 1998 (center photo), I had gained a little weight, and so had Goofy. We were both a bit mad that this Mickey dude had a 26.2 mile race, and his pal, Donald, had a 13.1 race that same day. Goofy was concerned that freakin' Pluto was going to get his own race soon.

To make a long story short, we brainstormed many options, but settled upon putting the two races on back-to-back days, and because it was such a "crazy" notion (running 39.3 miles in about 28 hours), it would be called the Goofy Challenge. The rest is history....almost.

The last time Goofy and I crossed paths was during a trip in 2003 with my daughter, Erika, where we discussed his "little race Challenge", and my ability to do it. Oh, you had to be there as we ribbed one another! He questioned whether I was fit enough. I reminded him what great shape I was in back in '90 during one of our previous reunions. Buff... But then he issued the ultimate challenge...through Erika. Whispered in her ear that I couldn't do it. Getting old. Slow. Since that day, I have been hearing it from her for the last 5 years. So...now you know the history of the Goofy Challenge, and how I got sucked into participating this year. Have to show the big-boy that I still have it!

I am sure we will cross paths again next weekend...he'll be laughing at me and questioning my ability, and I'll be looking to capture the moment on film when I cross 2 finish lines, with arms raised in triumph. A Goofy Challenge success story.

Special moments, a special bond. Based on our relationship, I sometimes I think I could be Goofy's long-lost little brother...Goofus...

Confucius Says...

"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." Blah, blah, blah...

My running journey in 2007 began on January 1st, at 11:30 a.m. with a 4 mile, 34:42 outdoor run in 65 degree weather (it pays to journal). It concluded today, December 31st, at approximately 4:02 pm with a 4 mile, 38:26 treadmill run (tapering, remember - going slower!), as I completed my 1,000th mile of running for the year. Quite a year! Figure a conservative 9:30/mile average over the year, and I ran for 6.6 days, or over 158 hours. Not quite Forrest Gump-like, but good enough. I have been fortunate to have good health for the year, an understanding family, and the determination to keep going. Even accomplished a "double-double" - like an NBA player - with another 1307 miles logged on the bike. Ok, so this probably isn't that rare, but for me, it will probably not happen again. The year of Ken is coming to an end - fitness, fundraising, friends and fun were all a part of 2007.

What will 2008 bring? I doubt another 1,000 miles running. But as Confucius, that wise old Chinese philosopher says, it all begins with a single step. So tomorrow I will rise (hopefully later than usual and without a headache or bellyache), put one foot in front of the other, and see where my Nike's might take me. And I hope the journey is just as special as it was in 2007!

Dream A Little Dream With Me

With 2007 coming to an end, I thought I'd share a true story from this past July. While this story isn't about running, the plot line could easily apply to the upcoming Goofy Challenge. It may make you laugh, it may make you cry. I probably did both, and soon you'll know why. Pull up a chair and take 10-15 minutes to enjoy. Happy New Year!!

My Day as an “A” Rider

Everyone should have dreams. Hopes of accomplishing the impossible. My lifelong dream is (note – not was) to play centerfield for the Chicago Cubs. Someday. Being a longer-distance runner for the past 7 years, I have entertained the thought of finishing on “the podium”, a recognition fitting only to those that finish as the top 3 runners of a race. Of course, let’s face reality. I really don’t work that hard in my training for that to ever become a reality. Oreo’s and M&M’s do put a damper on one’s training plan. However, in one’s lifetime, it would be nice to have a podium finish in something. Like competitive eating, the Mr. Universe contest, or the best yard in town. So far, none of those have bestowed upon me either.

Two years ago I started biking with a group called the Mojo’s. No, this isn’t a group of bikers like Hell’s Angels. We ride road bikes (fancy, expensive bicycles), and wear neon pink and green spandex uniforms. Even Hell’s Angels don’t want to come near us! When I first started biking, going 30 miles in one stretch was unimaginable. Now it is a warm-up. The Mojo biking team has brought many moments of laughter and excitement to what used to be drab weekend mornings for me. Since this group consists of riders of all levels, we have affectionately been split by our sometimes over-zealous captain into “A”, “B” and “Lite” riders. I fall into the “B” ranks, which is somewhat difficult to take for a person who always has considered himself in the “A” ranks in whatever I did – sports, spelling bees, academics, and channel surfing to name a few. “A” riders are fast. Really fast. Sometimes affectionately called “Hammerheads” for their ability to put the pedal-to-the-medal. “B” riders are always a step behind, able to see the “A’s” in the distance, but never able to keep up the pace for a sustained period of time. “B’s” are cool, not fast. We are able to carry on conversations about the “A’s” with each other while riding, rather than just sucking wind. I cherish my role as a “B”.

It happened to be last month that I was heading out-of-town on a prolonged business/personal trip that would have me away from home for nearly 3 weeks. Since I was going to miss the weekend Mojo team rides, and important training for an upcoming 150-mile bike ride to benefit Multiple Sclerosis, I decided to bring my bike with me nearly 700 miles to Bass Lake, Indiana, where I would be staying for 4 days. And yes, I packed the pink and green spandex as well. Gotta look good at the lake. The ladies would be watching!

Friday, July 27th: I knew, at this lake, 8-miles in circumference, that I could get in some quality early morning distance rides. So it was an added bonus when our family arrived on a Friday afternoon, that we learned it was “Bass Lake Summer Festival Weekend”. Activities for all ages, the signs proclaimed. A carnival for my kids, a parade, pancake breakfasts, and wouldn’t you know it – the Bass Lake Bike Race on Sunday morning. I was excited, not because it was a race, but because it would allow me to ride with a group of people, just like the Mojo’s. I quickly located a registration form in what barely passed for a local newspaper. This is Bass Lake, Indiana people – population of like 46. But in the summer, and on Bass Lake Summer Festival Weekend, the population soars into the millions. I was so happy to know I could proudly wear my Mojo colors on race morning, and stretch my legs, that I set out to do 4 loops around the lake on Saturday.

Saturday, July 28th: That Saturday morning was the prestigious Bass Lake 5k Run/Walk race. As a runner, I contemplated entering. But I knew I had a mission. I dragged my bike 700+ miles, so I was going to ride! And ride I did Saturday – a total of 4 loops around the lake, passing the same traffic officer 3 times who was tending to the tremendous amount of Bass Lake traffic (basically me at 7:00 a.m.). I was flying, head down, really trying to get in a good workout. On the 2nd loop, I shouted to him, “Am I winning?” He responded with a hearty “Race is tomorrow”. Duh – I was joking (I guess to myself, apparently). On my next loop, he shouted “Save it for tomorrow.” Save what? I am no Lance Armstrong, and sprinting once around an 8-mile lake wasn’t my idea of fun. Remember, hard training is for podium finishers. I was there for a casual workout.

That evening, my wife (Brenda) and I were discussing the race. We happened to be staying at a lake house of some family friends. The house also happened to be on the route which the bike race would be coming by – at approximately mile 6 of the 8-mile race. So when she nonchalantly asked when the race would start, I casually responded “8:00 a.m. But since this is Bass Lake time, more like 8:26 am.” Now I had a good reason for being flippant. During my Saturday morning bike ride, I was expecting to get stopped by officer-friendly due to the throngs of runners/walkers from the 5k. However, I didn’t see them until about 7:30 a.m., so I figured they started that race late.

Race Day, Sunday, July 29th: Sunday morning rolled around much too early for this “B” rider. After all, I was on vacation, and sleeping in is something normal folks would do. But being a “true Mojo”, I got up early and decided to warm up with a lap around the lake before checking in at the Community Center for the race. By 7:30 a.m., I was ready to go, decked out in my team colors and beginning to size up the competition. I am sure they were doing the same of me, since I stood out in the crowd. After all, I exuded “manly-ness” in my uniform. I learned that fellow competitors had come from all parts of the country for the opportunity to compete in this prestigious one-lap sprint. Al Hortford came from Phoenix, Arizona, and I came from Charlotte, North Carolina. Since this was in Indiana, you can see how I came to the conclusion that people came from “all parts of the country” for this race. As for prestigious, I also learned that this race originated way back in the mid 1930s – a very long standing tradition at the Bass Lake Summer Festival.

At the starting line, we were informed that a number of “Barney Fife’s” would be monitoring traffic on the side streets, while the competitive riders would follow a squad car of one of Indiana’s finest state troopers. No issues there. Being a “B” rider, unless he was pulling me with a tow rope, I wasn’t planning on getting near his bumper.

“Bang!” The gun went off. Ok, that sounds quite dramatic. Rather, it was some dude yelling “ready, set, go.” Time-keepers were in place with stop-watches at this non-Tour-de-France qualifier. Now, I should mention that you needed to be 15 years or older to “compete” in the Bass Lake Bike Race. That meant many non-competitive riders lined up at the back of the pack, and I suddenly found myself near the front when the “gun” when off. Not wanting to get run over, I quickly made a “slow” get away from the start and settled in behind some of the more experienced “A” riders, who were also decked out in their multi-colored riding tights (not that I was looking at their tights). In the first ½ mile, I anxiously waited for someone to sprint away, so I could settle into my 27-minute loop around the lake, just like I did four times the day before.

Two miles in. The first attempted burst ahead was from a rider that was with the Murphy Family Reunion that weekend. No tights. Just a Murphy Family Reunion shirt to identify him. Not a serious threat to the group I thought, and all the riders quickly put on a burst of speed to stay with him. Hey, I was in that group too! Ridin’ with the pack. What a fun feeling! So this is what the peloton feels like at the Tour-de-France – able to catch any rider that tried to pull away from them.

Four miles in. Strange thoughts began to enter my mind as I was still in the middle of the pack following Joe Trooper. No, not thoughts about winning the race – winning is only for hammerheads. Instead, I began to get excited that if I could hang with the “A” riders for 2 miles more, I could possibly be in the lead when we passed the lake house where my family was staying. I knew they’d be outside watching on this beautiful day. It would be a hoot to have their very own Mojo in the lead, incredibly special and have my kids cheering me on. My heart started beating faster.

Five-and-a-half miles in. I made my move to the outside of the pack and sprinted to the front. I think I had everyone intimidated, as they quickly followed suit. Perhaps my nice bike, fancy shades, and a uniform unlike any other this town had ever seen, had them worried that I was going to sprint for the next 2.5 miles to the finish. I guess it was my own little joke, as I was only sprinting to the lake house. “Ha!” I thought. Around the curve in the road I came. Whooo-whooo-whooo went the officer’s siren announcing to all that the racers were coming. Up ahead, I could see my father-in-law on the side of the road leaning out to get a good look. Naturally, I assumed everyone else in the family was behind him. I had a good look too, because at that moment, this “B” rider was IN THE LEAD!!!

Six miles in. As I passed by the lake house, I quickly glanced to the front door, and saw my wife coming outside. If anyone ever doubted that I was racer, those thoughts were being wiped away at this moment. I rode by with an ear-to-ear grin, and flashed each of them a “hang-loose” sign. Now it may not have been the proper thing to do, but heck, I was IN THE LEAD. I must’ve had everyone else in the racing pack pretty worried at that moment, because they were glued to my back wheel, making sure I didn’t get away from them. Or as smart riders would call it, drafting off the stupid guy exerting energy while IN THE LEAD.

Six-and-a-half miles in. For the next ½ mile or so, I remained IN THE LEAD, smiling in case Poncherello was taking pictures out the back window of his squad car. The finish line was rapidly coming closer, and at that moment…”whoosh”, the “A” riders decided to show who was the boss and blew by me for a sprint to the finish, leaving me in their dust.

Seven-and-a-half miles in. However, I wasn’t defeated. I knew I wouldn’t finish last in the pack of lead riders. How did I know that? Because as a fresh faced 18-year old was racing with me side-by-side, I heard him shout behind us, “c’mon grandpa”. That was music to my ears. I was going to beat grandpa. And I did, crossing the finish line in an amazing 22:14! Unfortunately, I wasn’t good enough for a podium finish in the overall race classification, and I settled for an approximate 10th place finish.

But wait! They were doing 1st place awards for age group finishers. Might I have been good enough to win in the 35 – 39 year old group? I shuffled on over to the “official scorers” table to check out my chances. Hmmm, I thought – definitely some competition based on the age group sign-in sheets.

So rather than go back to the lake house, I decided to stick around for the awarding of the 1st place finisher medals. Of course, this did not take place until after riders of all abilities completed the bike race – which took some people nearly 50 minutes. By this time, the nervous energy coursing through my body would’ve been highly visible to others, had it not been for the Mojo uniform bringing a great sense of calm and confidence over me. You have to be self-confident when wearing pink and green in the middle of Indiana.

After graciously clapping for the overall winners, and secretly cursing them for drafting off of me, the time had arrived. The race organizer announced “first place amongst males in the 35 – 39 year old age group, Ken Bansemer”. Yeah! An inward fist-pump, who’s your daddy celebration ensued. Outwardly – a calm smile and wave to the overflowing crowd at the Community Center (I think the pancake breakfast was starting there soon). And then, the 1st place finisher’s medal was placed over my head and around my neck by none other than Miss Bass Lake 2007! My day couldn’t get any better than this!!!


Epilogue (and the truth):

None of the story above is fiction. Al Hortford (88) was in town from Phoenix, Arizona to celebrate his 70th high school reunion in nearby Knox, Indiana. He was the winner of the first Bass Lake Bike Race around 1936, and was presented a special award. He also looked intimidating in his spandex racing outfit, not that I was looking. I can only hope I am still “racing” at his age.

At the start of the race, there were about 12 – 15 serious riders lined up, out of about 75 total. I knew I wouldn’t win, and wasn’t trying to, but it sure felt good to whiz around the lake, and draft off of others in a competitive manner.

Miss Bass Lake 2007 was crowned earlier in the week. Despite the fact that getting awarded by her sounds glorious, it was a let-down as she was about 17. I would have preferred the 2nd runner-up. Pickin’s were slim at the Miss Bass Lake contest this year.

After the race, I went back to the lake house to celebrate with family. Seated around the kitchen table, which was within viewing distance of the race course, was my wife, my in-laws, and the owners of the lake house. First question out of my mouth was, “did you see me in the lead as I passed the house?” More of a statement, than a question. However, my wife’s head dropped down, and I heard the soft murmur of a “no”. “What do you mean? I saw you coming out of the house as I passed by?” It was then I learned the “rest of the story” as Paul Harvey would say. The woman coming out of the house as I passed by was my mother-in-law. (Friends – let me pass along some free advice to you. It is always a good thing to mistake your mother-in-law for your wife. Those are brownie points right there.)

In trying to understand where Brenda was during my once-in-a-lifetime moment of glory, I learned she was still in bed. Apparently, my flippant comment of the race starting at 8:26 a.m. came back to haunt me. She was getting out of bed at 8:13 a.m. and was still upstairs when I raced by behind TJ Hooker. So the actual communication chain within the lake house of my feat went something like this:

· Mother-In-Law yells from the porch to my 8-year old daughter, Erika, who is in the kitchen, “Daddy is in the lead!”
· Erika yells to my 4-year old son, Ryan, who is in the other room, “Daddy is in the lead!”
· Ryan runs upstairs to tell a sleepy Brenda, “Daddy is in the lead!”
· Brenda better have muttered, “Oh, sh*t”

No video of the moment. No cameras of the pack behind me. Only my memories of whizzing by the house, with a pack of riders furiously trying to close the distance of my lead, will sustain me in the years to come. And my medal…and Miss Bass Lake (in future stories to be 24, blond, in spandex and real fine…)

And, to assure you that there is meaning in this story beyond the podium finish, there were only three males entered in the 35 – 39 year old category. I whipped the other two but good (writer’s embellishment). Then again, there were six entrants in the 40 – 44 year old category, and they all beat me. Guess I have something to look forward to next year, when I turn 40. I am going to get better with age! Watch out Al.

I may be “B” rider, but “daddy was in the lead” and was an “A” rider for a day!

Ken Bansemer
A proud Mojo and podium finisher.

P.S. - The medal is bigger than it looks. Really.

Tricks of the Trade

I'd like to share one of the little tricks runners may use to gain an advantage in a competitive environment. No, I am not referring to HGH or other illegal enhancements. Instead, I am referring to something like "down-force" (a NASCAR term), or being "aerodynamically sound" (a biking term). "Drafting," commonly used in those two sports, uses the car or person in front of you to "break the wind" (yes, Beavis would be chuckling now...), to allow the object behind them to move forward using less energy. I am all about drafting, and I'll admit, even sometimes being the one to break the wind.

Oh, I know this sounds all technical and stuff. But it is quite simple. Let the person in the lead do all the work, while you exert less energy. I learned a lot about drafting these past few years while riding with the Mojo's. One of my fellow riders, we'll call her Rhonda, is notorious for slipping her bike in behind a larger rider, and literally coasting for 50 miles (or maybe it just seems that way while I pedal furiously). She, being of tiny stature, makes the most of her workouts, and is always fresh at the end of the ride (she's so darn chipper!).

I sought to employ the drafting strategy a few years ago at the Las Vegas Half-Marathon. I was coming off a Personal Record (PR) 3 months earlier in Niagara Falls, and was looking to do even better in Vegas. I trained hard leading up to the race, only to find out race day that the conditions were quite blustery. Approximately 20 - 30 mph headwinds for the first 10 miles. Being a bright guy, and of small stature, I quickly decided to tuck in behind a larger runner to conserve energy during the race. While that strategy may seem good on the racetrack, or while on a bike, I am here to tell you that in running it meant diddly! The wind found me. You can't run closely enough behind someone to have it make a difference. Perhaps I didn't pick a large enough runner. Maybe I didn't sleep well enough the night before (Vegas, baby!). Maybe I wasn't hydrated enough. Or maybe it just wasn't meant to be. In the end, I may have saved a few seconds, but not enough to matter, as I finished 50 seconds too slow to set another PR.

Is there a moral to this story? Maybe. Maybe not. All I know is that wind is not my friend when it comes to running, unless it is a tailwind. However, if there is wind at Disney on race day, you better believe I am going to tuck in behind something large to shield me from the elements. I can only hope that Dumbo is registered and in the same corral as me...

You Ain't Got A Thing, If You Ain't Got That Bling

When it comes to distance running, I may be on a streak that is unmatched in history. It is difficult enough to win one race over the course of a running career. Yet, I have managed to win 11 straight (1 marathon and 10 half-marathons)! This streak has stretched from 2000 until today, and barring any unforeseen circumstances, I fully expect to chalk up two more back-to-back victories in early 2008 in Disney World.

The secret to my success rests not in crossing the finish line first and breaking the tape. Heck, any schmo can pull a Rosie Ruiz and do that. And let me tell you, I am not any schmo! Nope, I am a winner at every race because I have children who believe in me. Like they believe in Santa, the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy. Truth be told, Erika is beginning to wonder whether I am really winning. Yes, I come home with a medal from every race - and in our home, it is a FIRST PLACE MEDAL!!!

After each race, whether out-of-town, or local, I come home with "the bling" around my neck, and the kids come running up. "Did you win?", they asked. "Was there ever a doubt?", I respond (ok...think to myself). Then I flash the medal - "Yes, daddy won the race!" Hugs, kisses, great job, smiles. It makes all the hours of training worth it to come home to that reception.

I don't run for fitness. I don't run to visit great locations (Niagara Falls, Virginia Beach, Colorado mountains, Vegas, Disney). I run for the bling. And as a result, I am a winner!

It's All Downhill From Here

Today (for me) was the day that most, if not all, periodic marathoners dread. The "long-run" - 20 miles. This is the longest run we do in our training preparation prior to the actual marathon. I just completed mine not more than 90 minutes ago. This date sticks out like a sore thumb on the calendar months in advance, and it creeps closer like a pending apocalypse. There is anticipation, fear, self-doubt, and then voila...relief and satisfaction.

Two weeks ago, I did 18 miles, and was miserable. I had been fighting a cold, and came off of a 9 mile run a day earlier. Miles 13 - 18 were the absolute worst I had ever done, taking every ounce of concentration I could muster to put one foot in front of the other, and barely speaking to my running companion. I finished, but not with a sense of joy.

While still dealing with lingering parts of that same cold today, miles 13 - 18 were much better. I did 8 miles yesterday, and while I should have done 10 miles in keeping with my pattern of running 1/2 of Saturday's distance on Friday, I had visions of doubt, based on my poor performance two weeks earlier. Fear be gone. I CAN DO THIS!

I now enter the greatest phase of longer distance running. No, not the holiday season with parties, food and drink (although that might be the 2nd best phase of winter running - eating all you want while shedding calories on the weekends). I now begin "tapering" - slowing decreasing my weekly mileage, so by race day in mid-January, my legs are fresh, and any lingering pains have had a chance to recover. Therefore, you will see my weekly mileage go down over the next month, so I can hopefully finish this effort with a smile and arms raised high in accomplishment.

Yes friends - it is all downhill from here. Now if you will excuse me, I need to go rest my very tired pigs, while munching on all the holiday goodies that have arrived via mail. Guilt free, of course!