Sunday, August 12, 2018

52 Years of Running. Happy Runnerversary to me.

Well, here we are again. Another year has passed and yet another runnerversary has come around the curve. 

52 years. 112,555 miles. Yikes.

I have to say that while I am extremely motivated today, the reality of this running thing is that I really don't know how it's going at this time. My knee is a definite problem. Progress is, to say the least.....S L O W.....  I might run anywhere from 3 to 7 miles on a given day but  3-7 just doesn't do it for me. 

Why? Unfortunately, I'm motivated. Really motivated.

And I know all the stuff others (including some of you) say. In fact, I was scolded by my P.A. Jenn about a month ago. Yep, I get it.

Jenn:  "So, how much are you running these days?'
Me:     "Been consistently around 50-60 miles a week."
Jenn:  "What?"
Me:     "50-60 miles a week."
Jenn:   "And you're how old?'
Me:     "66."
Jenn;  "And you're running 50-60 miles a week, on a bad knee and you're complaining?"
Me:     "I suppose. If you call this complaining....."
Jenn:  "I do. And stop it."

With all apologies to Jenn and anyone else who does not grasp my issue, but I don't remember the last time I was this psyched about running and all things running. I want to run twice a day. I want to run 80 miles a week. I want to go for an easy 20 miler right this second. I'm reading every book, trolling every website, watching every video. I'm motivated.

Unfortunately, It's Wasted Motivation......

Yesterday I was supposed to run the Georgetown to Idaho Springs Half Marathon. Didn't go. Geez, the San Francisco one a couple of weeks ago was bad enough - I don't want to do that again anytime soon; gimping around like some old man. I also have the Fortitude 10K coming up on Labor Day. Doubt it. And last but not least, the Chicago Marathon in eight weeks..... Yeah, right. No chance.

In the meantime, I want answers. My super PT, Pete and I do not seem to be able to connect for an updated knee examination and it is SOOO frustrating. Reminds me of my car mechanic, Leo, but that's a topic for another discussion.

So, in the end as it always does, perseverance and patience will rule the day. That's the way of the distance runner. Long term gratification rules. Until all is well, however, this 52nd runnerversary is bittersweet at best.

All is not lost though, my fabulous Grandchildren are beginning cross country seasons. Mason will begin his collegiate career at Colorado State University in a few weeks and is heading off to camp with his teammates. And McKenzie, a Freshman, just ran her first 5K time trial yesterday and placed second on her team. First real meet is coming up Thursday! 

See? Channeling my motivation elsewhere. Good boy!

If you have interest in how this 52 year thing actually began, some articles from past runnerversaries are below. I was more historical writing those. Today, just hysterical (pun intended). Until year 53.....

Run on.

http://runspittle.blogspot.com/2017/08/51-years-131-miles-emma-and-courtney.html 

http://runspittle.blogspot.com/2015/08/49-years-running-its-who-i-am.html 

http://runspittle.blogspot.com/2011/08/happy-anniversary-to-me-45-years-of.html 


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