If you are interested in supporting me with a video for the marathon, you can cheer me on at http://www.supportyourmarathoner.com via @ASICSamerica.

Sprint the Hills

I saw an interesting article about the Kenyans and why they dominate long distance running.  One of the techniques that use in training is to sprint up the hills.  When asked why they sprint the hills, their reply was that it is an "Opportunity" that they would not even imaging missing.

Often in our lives we see daunting challenges that seem too big to tackle.  I love this unique way of seeing an impediment and rushing into the storm rather than avoiding or trying to detour away from it.  It has served the Kenyans well, and can be a good technique for dealing with some of our tough problems as well.

So, the next time you get to a big hill, instead of slowing down, try seizing the opportunity and Sprint The Hill.  It might make the obstacle go by faster and give you a more rewarding outcome.

Friday Trail Run with Friends

Great run this morning on the beautiful trails at Veterans Acres. Brand and Blair set a comfortable and fun pace. Thanks for the run and the awesome views of the park.

My training is going well. My lungs are getting stronger, and I am starting to push the pace just a little. I ran with Mo down town yesterday and we started off at a slower pace. This helped us ease into the run and it became much easier to finish strong.

Go Make a Difference in the World

We're singing Steve Angrisano's awesome song "Go Make a Difference" this weekend, and it made me want to challenge us all to be the hands and feet of Christ.  Let your love shine on and know that His spirit will be with us as we go.  

Five words that I want to focus on this week:  Family, Spirit, Community, Fun and Love

Go Make a Difference in the World!

Peace,

Mark 

If you want to hear the song, here is the link where you can play it...Go Make a Difference

My Ears on the Road...Claymore

My first 4 runs after my leg injury have me feeling very optimistic about my training.  My legs are a little sore, but overall I'm doing better than I expected.  Running with Claymore and Jean (on bike) is a nice addition to my training.  Clay is a steady runner with no sign of quit.  I can't wait to start seeing my pace increase....one thing at a time.  C you on the Road.... Mark

5.43 mile run completed with Clay

Ran 5.4 miles with my buddy Claymore today. Feels good to stretch the old legs again. Only about 600 more miles to train until NYC Marathon

Recent Runs and Workouts

Date	Description	Distance
05/09	Crystal Ridge & Braeburn Loop X1 Run w/Claymore	2 M
05/09	Chicago Run with Mo	3.5 M
05/08	Crystal Ridge & Braeburn Loop X1.4 Run w/Claymore	3.2 M
05/07	Crystal Ridge Loop X2 Run w/Claymore and Jean	4.0 M
05/06	Downtown CL Run w/Claymore	3.2 M
05/04	Crystal Ridge and .81 loop Run with Claymore	3.7 M
05/03	Crystal Ridge Run with Claymore	2.01 M
05/03	Power Line and Around Braeburn with Clay	2.25 M
05/01	Ridgefield Out and Back with Clay	3.04 M
05/01	Braeburn Path Loop with Clay (3X.81 Miles)	2.43 M
04/30	Crystal Springs with Clay & Jean	2 M
04/27	Crystal Springs with Clay	1.25 M