Running on the beach

Last weekend I was able to spend some time with a good friend that moved to Jacksonville about 4 years ago. I had a great time and was able to get some miles in on the beach on Saturday and Sunday. Both days I ran about 6 miles and it was great. The sand there is packed down because of the tide coming in and out so often. The wind was blowing and it was about 75 degrees. The ipod was stuck on Jack Johnson and Coldplay which made the experience even better. My running mates are planning for the 50 miler this weekend so I can't wait until they all finish! Even if they don't, I think it is unbelivable that they have made it that far in the sport. Unfortunately, I have been out of town the past 7 days and so I can't go with them for support but I'm sure we can party when they get back! Later

A reason for running

Well this weekend was full of surprises but one may change my life forever. First of all, a bunch of my buddies went to the Sylamore 50K and represented us very well. Even my buddies dad who is in his 60's finished at a very strong 8:26. If I can do half that when I am his age I will be ecstatic. The big thing that happened was that during a run with a "newby" at Shelby Farms, we started talking and I stumbled upon a very sensitive subject in his life. He ended up telling me about his past and how he struggled with this "something" that I never new about. He told me that his only way to beat this "problem" was to run. I can't go into detail because he asked me to keep it quiet but I can tell you that I have a new respect for the sport. Running has actually saved this guys life and I never even had a clue! I know this is all very vague to you but just trust me. It was an amazing story of survival and "replacement for addictions".
As far as my training goes, I am feeling very strong and had another great long run this weekend and I think I will increase my mileage this week.
One more congrats to the finishers of the Sylamore 50k and 25k this weekend! Later

Training PR!!

Well, in my circle of running friends, this is not a big deal but I have to brag on myself. Yesterday afternoon I ran 13 miles in 2hrs 9 seconds and broke my personal best of 10 miles. The weather was absolutely perfect with it being about 60 degrees and windy. I rant the yellow trail at Shelby farms (there and back) and then ran around the Ag center for about 20 minutes to finish. I can honestly say that I felt very strong the majority of the time except that last 15 minutes and at that point my hips started getting tight. I now feel comfortable that I will finish strong at the Gtown half marathon. Hello Ultra, I see you in my future.
Any suggestion on how I should start training to get ready for an ultra in 2 months?