“On your Leeeeeft”

I had great intentions to write a post on last Saturday’s workout earlier this week; however I injured my eye during a company softball game on Tuesday (6/30) night and well between the ER and trying to work with one eye – the time to write escaped me.

I would still like to give a small update from last week though.

Reeewind to Saturday, June 27.

The morning started off far too early (See: Early Morning Productivity). The group ride started at Fletcher’s Boat House in D.C. at 7:30 a.m. and there were more approximately 300-400 people around. All of the Team in Training groups (half-marathoners, marathoners and century riders) were going to use the same trail that day for their workouts.

• Before I tell you about the workout – there was a storm on Friday (6/26) night. The storm did a lot more damage than I thought. There was a downed tree in the bike path and large amounts of debris along the way to the meeting spot. Try straddling a tree with cycling shoes – not so much fun.

The workout (60 minute bike and 20 minute run) went well though the Capital Crescent Trail was PACKED. I am sure I set a record for saying, “on your left” while I was on my bike. With so many athletes and normal joggers, cyclists many of us were constantly trying to go around others on the trail. I hope we don’t have to have a packed trail like that in the future. (On the bright side – I’m sure anyone looking to learn how to use their gears learned pretty quickly.)

There were loads of people on the trail, but it was still a lot of fun.

There was a short and fun picnic at the end of the workout where everyone was able to get together and listen to cancer survivors that wanted to show their appreciation for the work and the fundraising we were participating in.

P.S. Update to come on the lack of training this week due to the softball injury.

Training run deemed “not that bad”

Running – The act of putting one foot in front of the other until (A) you sweat-out like a block of cheese in the sun and crack, or (B) need to tie your shoe laces.

…there may be other options; I chose not to indulge you with such things.

Runners abound

Hmmm…how do I start a conversation…“You look different without your swimming cap, maybe it’s the hair?”

Our group begins to grow. Triathlon participants are arriving one by one to join in the morning’s first group run. Collectively we number approximately 200 people. Rest assured, those 300 Spartans would find that our group could dispatch them with ease…after we finish eating our Powerbars.

You go first, I’ll catch up

Tough choices in life include where to live, who to date, what to eat, but at this moment in time – should I run for 40, 45, or 50 minutes? Ambition takes hold, but settling for 45 minutes will do. The 50 minute group leaves first. I will show off for the ladies at a later time.

We join the Custis Trail and find hills, oh they may have been short and sweet, but like an attractive person that glances at you as they pass by, a lasting impression is quick to form. This lasting impression burns.

Runners reach their time and turn around for the run back. The hills are unquestionably more downward than up.

Clinic 1: This is a bike

Shimano 105s (and above), shoes, cleats, and a helmet capable of shattering – all good things that any self respecting tri-athlete must consider owning.

Here is my bike! I love it. I bought it approximately two months ago.

Do you own a road bike?

Conte’s has regular Tuesday night rides. [Link]. Consider joining them, but be warned that there are some hills involved.

Team in Training Members

How was practice for your first running practice?

Family, Friends and Random Readers

I am racing the Nation’s Triathlon on Sept 13 and raising funds with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Please sponsor me by clicking on this LINK and make a donation. Any amount is greatly appreciated, makes a world of difference and is fully tax-deductible.

Area Resident Will Conquer the Tri

I am a member of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training program and I will participate in the Nation’s Triathlon on September 13.

The Journey Starts

Sleep in the corner of my eye. I wake up…though the alarm’s repetitious pulse and unnatural racket that commonly signals a day’s beginning hasn’t sounded yet. A sixth sense tells me that I should be alert because it has happened again. I didn’t pay enough attention when setting the time. The alarm was set for 4:45 p.m. instead of a.m. It is now 5:05 a.m.

A car deserves a gold star

I run a mental check, swimming trunks on; farmer’s tan, yes; morning sprint to the car – no problem.

The directions – I’m thankful I used Google Maps last night to glance at the directions to the swimming pool. Mental dialogue ensues as my aged car turns on like a grumpy old man woken from a nap, “Exit 17, wait – are you sure it was 17…something hill road right?”

Arlington to McLean, Spring Hill in fact – that was quick. It is now 5:28 a.m. Well done car.

Thursday Swim Practice Begins.

Introductions and pleasantries are over. The first Thursday swimming practice quickly commences. Another mental check, make sure swimming trunks are tied tightly, mooning the swimming coach is not a good idea.

The trunks are tight. Swimming laps and listening to feedback are my priorities. Rotate hips and turn your head to the side to breathe properly. Breathe on every stroke or at most, every third. I have work to do.

Practice is over – time to go home and shower for work. It is 6:30 a.m.

—————–

Today was not a normal day when I look back at the recent or distant past. I am participating in the Nation’s Triathlon in support of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society on September 13, and my official team training started this morning.

Looking forward, I have embarked on a journey where I will undoubtedly swim, bike and run many miles in preparation for my first triathlon. I have run distance races including a marathon and learned that the feeling of finishing an endurance event is amazing. The sense of pride in you can often become overwhelming, surprising and a thrilling chapter in a storied life.

I will update this blog often with my training progress. I hope you find something worthy of reading, or perhaps commenting on.

I look forward to hearing from you.

- Matt

Make a difference in the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans currently facing a blood cancer by funding research, treatments and support. Please donate to support this cause.

http://pages.teamintraining.org/nca/nattri09/mingram

Update: 2008 National Memory Walk

Here is an update on my attempt to help Fight Alzheimer’s disease.

I signed up to participate in Booz Allen’s team for the annual Alzheimer’s Memory Walk on July 30, 2008. Read my first post about it [Here].

Since I signed up to help out with this walk taking place on October 18, 2008 I’ve raised $95 so far. Woot!!! If you read my original post, I was only looking to raise $50 and I was going to match that $50 for a total of $100. Now with the generosity of one family in particular I am going to walk in honor of their family member…lol I still need to write a thank you letter to the family for their generous support. With my donations included, I’ve helped raise $145. Thank you!

To be honest I never knew Alzheimer’s had touched the lives of many of my friends until I started asking for donations. I’m sure if you asked some of your friends, you might see how it has impacted their lives. If you’re able, please donate $5 to the cause of Alzheimer’s research. This is a disease that will impact those we know. Even if you happen upon this blog from a random search on the Internet, please consider helping this worthy cause. To offer a donation of any size, please click here for my personal page: Matt’s Page

Thanks all.

Matt

Fight Alzheimer’s: 2008 National Memory Walk

Can you help? I’m participating in the National Alzheimer’s Memory Walk around the National Mall. The walk takes place on October 18, 2008. To date the charity has raised over $100,000. My team within my firm, Booz Allen Hamilton is looking to help raise $10,000.

For the time being I’ve committed to helping our group raise $50 and I’ll match donations up to $50. I’ll raise the outlook if many of you have a generous heart. Do you have $5 you would like to commit to a worthy cause?

Sponsor me for this walk by clicking [here]

Thanks everyone

Matt