Just for the sake of updating

Because this has become such a popular blog, now with 5 people reading it, I feel a sense of commitment to update, even if I don't have much to say. If you really want to read something fun, visit Sean Meissner's blog and read how he puked for 50 miles while running Western States.

As for me, training is going well. Fast Forward Andy has me putting in 70+ miles per week with many quality miles. The miles will increase after the Haulin Aspen marathon in 3 weeks as I prepare for Twin Cities in October. Last night Katie and I received an entertaining email from the elite athlete coordinator from Twin Cities in response to our plead to let us into the race. Not only did they grant us each a spot in this year's race, which is full, but they comped our entry and qualified us as elite entrants. We received another email about keeping our schedules open the day before the race for interviews etc. That will be the day! Anyhow, it was a very gracious gesture on their end, and it sets into motion our training plans for the rest of the summer.

Next on tap however is defending our Cascade Lakes Relay title. You never know who will show up, but for now, I think we are the solid favorites. I'm just looking forward to hanging out with our teammates. We all had a blast together last year. As of the date of this post we are searching for another male runner as Mike Condon had to drop due to injury. If you read this and are interested, leave me a comment.

A week after CLR is the Haulin Aspen marathon. I ran what I thought was the upper section of the course the other day and instantly became less excited about the race. What a brutal hill. For those who haven't had the pleasure, it's two miles of horrendous climbing near the top. Not only is it steep, but the footing is poor and there are like 10 false summits. Additionally, this comes after 6 miles of moderate climbing. No wonder 3:00:00 hasn't been broken. Who set this course anyway? We'll see what these aging legs can crank out.

So, if all holds well, Fast Forward Andy will get me trained for a sub 2:30:00 this year at Twin Cities. If I don't, he can consider himself fired. On the other hand, he is one of the five readers of this blog, so maybe I'll keep him. Time will tell.