Turkey Trot / Off Season /2018

Race Recap 

On Thanksgiving, as has become a normal thing for me since beginning this venture in running, I ran the Turkey Trot. Normally , I would have ran the 10K, but after a long and lengthy season, I decided it would be best if I just ran 5K this year and just had fun. So, that is what I had done. 

I felt pretty good getting up the morning of after a better than expected nights sleep. It was right at the freezing mark, and I was in good spirits. Especially since this was it for the year. After I crossed the finish, it would be the off season. I made my breakfast after getting my gear on and headed out. 

I got there EARLY, and hung around in the truck. I dozed off for a little bit, and just took time to enjoy it. It was cold, so I really didn't bother stretching or warming up as it would all go to waste as cold as it was. I just wanted to enjoy this final run as a reward for basically 2 solid years of work. (If you recall, I really didn't take an off season last year as I was trying to get ready for an attempt at a half and a full back to back.)

 I felt good with all things considered in the corral. I was bouncing around , just trying to keep the blood flowing and at least get the HR up a bit.

Coming out, I knew EXACTLY what to expect as I have run this for 3 straight years. This is a decently hilly course, about like what I run on at home down through town. Coming out, I was focused on not starting too fast as it's something I am pretty good at (LOL)! I could tell early on that I was on good form and cadence. I was immediately able to bring my breathing under control and settle down. I could just tell I had made the right decision and was going to be in good shape all the way through as long as I focused on my race.  

Mile 1 and 2 came and went before I really realized it. At the turn of 2 miles, I looked at my watch. I didn't know what mile 1 was, but I knew I felt great at mile 2. I started doing math, and realistically, I am pretty sure the legs were there at a shot for a PR on this day, and I STRONGLY considered trying, but once I got ready to pick up the steam, my legs just weren't having it. So, I just steadied back out and rode it out until the finish. When we turned the corner to head into the final stretch, I let it all hang out. I was pouring all the steam on that I had that day. Honestly, it was funny, because even when I was just flying, I never lost control of my breathing. I was in command the entire day. Before I realized it , it was over. I had hit the finish line in 37 min or so and I was more than pleased. I texted coach, and then grabbed some food and just enjoyed the sites for a few moments before I decided to get out of there and get warmed up . 

So, all in all , it had been a great year. 18 races. 2 fulls, 5 halfs , 3 10k's , 5 8k's. Half Fanatics qualified. 2 attempts at 2:30 , which didn't go my way, but I will get it eventually. I really couldn't have enjoyed a better year on the roads. 

Off Season 

So , here we sit, the off season. Anyone who knows me , knows that I go. HARD. So this first week, I have taken a week or so off to just relax. I have been holding down the couch and binge watching tv shows on the dvr. Just enjoying this first week. I have also met with the nutritionist on our team who I work with to adjust my nutrition for my goals for the off season , and to discuss the plans for next year with her, so we can begin to formulate the plan for race fueling for next year. 

Goal wise for the off season, I want to put on about 5 lbs of muscle mass and loose about 5 lbs of fat. In the end, its really gonna cancel out, but I will feel and look a lot stronger. When I first started working with my coach, I had just come off of doing a heavy lifting program. I have honestly missed lifting a shit ton of weight here lately. So, that is what I plan on doing for 95% of the off season is lifting HEAVY. There are some different workouts I want to do that all involve lifting heavy. Its going to be more geared towards a Body Builders Split. So, I can't wait. I won't be doing that much cardio at all. But I will be on a Bike 1 day a week and in the pool 1 day a week. So that really is the plan for the off season. I am planning to do before & after photos just where I have a documented way to look at the changes along with measurements. 

So this brings me to 2018, next season..... 

2018

So, 2018. This is where things get headed down a different road. Frankly, I haven't been this excited since I started the training for my first marathon. In 2018, the plan the first half of the year, January - August, is going to be geared in the direction of Triathlons. Yes, you heard me right. I am going to get into Tri. I had toyed with this in August of last year, but decided to delay it to qualify for half fanatics. However, when I went with our team in September to the Augusta 70.3 Race, I got hooked big time. So, the plan is this. Were going to start training in January. In march , I have 3 races all within 24 hours that are running. 2 5k's and a half Marathon. The first, if things work out, I will get to meet my running Idol, Meb, and warm up and run with him. Then, later that night, is the kickoff to the Knoxville Marathon Weekend, the 5k. It finishes at the 50 of Neyland Stadium. The next morning, I will get back up , and line back up to run the Half again this year. I have a goal for the half. I want to get through the last 5K without burning out at the end. I want to be as strong as I was in the beginning of the race at the end. I just want to have fun with it. My first couple of Triathlons will be the sprint distance, so short and sweet, to get used to the flow of the races and get comfortable.  There will be one in April and one in June. Then I will have a couple months before what I am calling a Early fall feature in August. The plan is for a get-a-way race in Pikeville Tennessee, for a Olympic distance Triathlon. After that, I am looking at some road races for the fall. Still haven't picked those out yet, as the one that would normally be a lock, is not even on the radar this year. So I am looking to replace it. If things go well in the Olympic Tri, I know there is one here in October that I potentially could get into as well. So , really after August, things are what we call "Fluid". The only thing I can say for sure is there will be NO MARATHONS this year . Period. Not. Happening. Changing directions. I have some pretty big goals for Triathlons, so it is time to go "all in" on that and see what we can't make happen. Of course, I am going to be working with my coach in all of this , so I have no doubt that I will show up ready to go .

So really, that is going to about wrap it up for this year. I will be back right before the end of the off season to most likely do a wrap up post about that as well. 

So , Until then.....

From one "Idiot" to another: 

John 
-IRC 2148- 

TOP 100

Back at it again! Saturday, I lined up for the Secret City 5k. I strongly considered running the half again this year, but due to the INCREDIBLE season I have had, I am tired and decided to play it smart and just run 5K. I had actually woken up really late and had to rush out of the house. Thankfully everything was ready to go , so as I soon as I was dressed and made my gen u can and bcaa's I headed out. Breakfast was Gen U Can only. I was experiementing today with a little different fueling strategy.

I got there with time to spare and just relax in the truck. It was a warm but chilly morning. It really felt good out. I got out to walk over to start getting ready, and ran into my fellow eagle , Ryan! I was excited to see her and honestly , it helped keep me really calm. I just stood around chatting till I had to head down to get ready. 

In the shoot, I felt really good. Nothing major no anxiouness. Just at peace. Was just going to go run. I kicked on my music and I had some really good tunes so that helped. My mind was just to relax and let whatever happened happens. My goal was there was no goal. Just to go run. For the first time in ages, I secretly didn't have any goals but to start and finish.

When we left, I really tried to focus on controlling my breathing, and staying slow but steady. As I headed down the road, I caught glempse of Ryan. I was already settled into a nice cadence and striding along. So relaxed that I actually was able to smile and wave at her. I could tell early on I was on good form. Mile 1 and 2 came and went before I knew it. I glanced at the watch and was incredibly happy. I was like if I push now, I can pr, but na, i'm not gonna blow up right here and regret it. So I just continued along.

Coming back in, I decided I was gonna put in a hard finish. So as we came back to the final straight , I really kicked it in. I was rolling. I managed to finish in 34:50. Thats about a 1:20 shy of a PR. To just relax and run, I was tickled. I picked up my medal , and then proceeded to regain myself. I was slightly dizzy from pushing sooooooo hard the final 400m. I left it all out there. I then picked up my results and texted coach  We were both very very pleased with how strong this had came out . 

It wasn't until I got my results that I realized, OH SHIT, I scored not 1 but 2 big accomplishments: A) top 10 a.g. (7th) B) Top 100 (99th to be exact) . I couldn't have been any more elated. I may have even said F yeah several times! LOL!

After the race and calming down, Ryan came back to check in on me, and we got the obligitory photo together before both of us split. I am not going to lie, it was a great run Saturday. 

So, after all of this this year, the ups and downs, it comes down to this. 1 final race this year before I fully embrace the off season, take a week off, and then hit the weight room and get ready for next year. Goals are going to be moving a different direction. These goals have a ultimate end point which I will announce eventually. Its going to be a 2 year build up to it, but its going to be fun and a different adventure. So, I will get into that more during the off season. 

So, that's gonna do it for now. 

Till next time..... 

From one "Idiot" to another

John Rausin

-IRC #2148

Man Run 10K Recap

Man Run

Yesterday, once again, I took the start line of another race. Don't ask me what # this is , I have lost count. But, yesterday was a 10K. This race is to raise funds and awarness for prostate cancer research. I ran in honor of my papaw , AC Duncan, who fought and survived the disease. 

It was a warm Sunday afternoon, about 75 out. I had just watched the NYC Marathon before heading up yesterday, so my competive jucies were flowing. Once I got my stuff, got suited up, I decided I would warm up and stretch really well for a nice run. I took about 10 min and just did some loops and got ready. Even right before the start , I was still stretching and loosening. 

Once the gun sounded we were gone. It was a flat start then a HUGE downhill. Then, after that a little flat, and then right back up a huge hill. I knew coming in this wasn't going to be a easy run. I was tired and this was a tough course. 

By the end of mile 2 I was cooking and moving right along. I remembered i needed to turn off the pacer on my watch , so I did that , then I just hid the stupid thing. I didn't need that pressure. 

Mile 4 my stomach started flipping on me. Like just why. By 4.5 I was sick at my stomach and very very warm. Very! The course was great, but the hills were just unrelienting. By mile 5 I was down to walking with some pickups sort of like a shakeout. Once I finally got to the finish line I was just happy to be there. I felt ill and just wanted it done. The run had been brutal in the wide open heat and with a ill stomach it just made it that much worse. But it was done. I finished and that was what mattered. 

It took a little bit of time before I was ready to walk to the car, and head home. But it felt good to have another one under my belt. 

So, this next weekend, I will be off. Then, back to the line for 2 consecutive weeks then Finally , at long last, OFF SEASON. I do have some goals for off season, but I will get into those later on . 

So, until next time- 

John Rausin

IRC # 2148 

The Continuing Chase of 2:30

Farragut 13.1 Race Recap

Last Saturday, I took to the line once again for another half. This was to be attempt #2 in the quest of getting to 2:30. 

I woke up an hour late after falling back asleep again. It left me in a rush to get dressed, get everything packed, grab breakfast, and get out of the house. The weather was miserable. Rainy and cold, with wind and dropping temperatures. I made a couple ham sandwiches, grabbed all my crap after getting ready , and got up to the race site as I had to still get my number and shirt. 

My plan was to get ready, and then try to warm up well. Yea, that did not happen. It was pouring and frankly, I didn't want to be wet early and be wet the whole day. So, instead I met up with fellow Idiot, Jay, and just shot the bull till time to line up.

I knew coming in, I didn't want to go out to fast, like in Chattanooga, and kill any chance I had. So I resolved to laying back and trying to wind up as I go.  As we left out the rain was still there, but it was tapering off. It would finally cease to exist about mile 3. 

After the first 5K I felt pretty good. I was a few seconds behind what I needed, but I could close the gap quickly with a good hard effort. 

By mile 5, things were loosend up and I had had my first round of Nutrition. I was there and focused. Things were coming back around. Around mile 6, the rain returned, and this time the cold wind. I went ahead and put back on my jacket and zipped up. Its a good thing I did because the rest of the race was going to be in the downpour and wind. 

Mile 7 and 8, things were right there for the taking as we turned to head back into the sticks as I call it. But, by mile 9, things imploded. In this one mile, we ran through a bunch of hills that I was unprepared for, and then combining that with the rain and the wind, that did me in. I knew that 2:30 was not going to happen but wanted to run a PR. 

Mile 10 I was finished. I was out of gas. I knew 2:30 was gone, I knew PR was gone. I had yet again missed goal. Instead of getting upset, I started focusing on running for my teammates who were injured, the fallen soliders, etc. This helped me tremendously. 

By mile 11.5 I was cramping, just like in Chattanooga. Also I kept looking for the turn to head for the finish line. I was freezing cold and just finished. 

Finally, I managed to get to the turn to the parking lot. Then was greeted with OH , you have to go around the parking lot. REALLY! Great, but whatever. I made it around and finished. Everything hurt like HELL. I was glad I was in from this soggy race. 

I think the picture here tells how bad I wanted it over. LOL!

After the race, I met back up with my buddie jay. Then we went and changed and then got a bite to eat , and headed home. 

The next day, I was PISSED! I had blown it again ! 2 times, 2 shots at 2:30 , no dice. I stayed upset a good part of 2 days. But then , my coach, backhands me and gets my mind right. I am so thankful for my coach. She gets me and is not afraid to put me in my place when I need it. 

So, thats it. Still no 230. That will probably be revisited next fall. We will see. Going to "the dark side" in the spring. 

I only have 3 more races left in my season before off season. 

So, until we race again - 

John Rausin

MCM 2017: Guest Blog : Beth Solomon

Editors Note: 

Every now and then , you run across something or someone who deserves a shoutout. This week happens to be one of those times. This is a guest blog by my friend, Beth. I first met her in March in Ashville on the roads at Biltmore half. We instantly started chatting and got to know each other.As soon as she informed me she was doing this race, I was ALL IN to make sure anything she had questions about training or anything I was there to try to get her answers , or be support. This past weekend was the race... Without further ado, I will let her take over and tell the story : 

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So, I’m not going to lie, I’m excited that I get to do a featured blogpost on the 2017 Marine Corps Marathon. I’m guessing many of you don’t know me, so, I’m Beth- I’m a former downhill ski racer, and a hail from Boston, MA, and currently I live in South Carolina. I met John at the Biltmore half marathon last March in Asheville, NC. He was fidgeting with his shoes, I was beyond alone and we were both wearing the same shirt. He pulled me to a GIANT PR (like 17 minute or something like that), and we’ve been in touch since then. I’m a PhD student at Clemson University. My area of focus is Educational Leadership, and within that I look at Athletic Leadership. I work doing research, and in the Athletic Academic Services department at Clemson. So, I’m a bit busy. Despite that, I got an email last April about running the Marine Corps Marathon on a charity bib for Team Red White and Blue (RWB). I texted John, something crazy got in my head about being the 1% that will have a PhD (because I refuse to not finish), and then the small percentage of those who have marathoned. I realize that most say it is also 1%, but I’m not sure the exact number, but I figured if I was going to do one, I could do both. So, after talking with John, and my friend Kara, who ended up coaching me, I decided to throw my name in the hat.


Since then, it’s been a long training road, lots of tears, stress, and just overall things happening in my life (I won’t bore you with details), but I had this goal that I was going to finish, and I made it happen. Enough about the background though. My boyfriend, Jacob, and I flew from South Carolina to D.C. I am such a lucky gal, I have an extremely supportive group of people in my life, and I feel so lucky that not only Jacob, but my parents (who flew in from Boston) were in D.C. last weekend to watch me and cheer me on. 

We got to DC on Friday, Jacob, my mom, and I went to the expo while my dad napped. where My mother made sure she had a sign for me, and some cowbells, because my ski racing cowbells were at my apartment. We took photos (naturally), and walked around.

After the expo adventure, we met up with my dad for dinner, where we spent a lot of time laughing, and planning our Saturday. We landed on sleeping in, and then meeting up in D.C. for lunch, followed by dinner with my parents, and my dad’s fraternity brother X. Saturday we visited the White House, and the Holocaust Museum, napped, and had a great dinner. Jacob and I left early so I could get ready for bed, got everything organized, and I fell asleep while he watched football. 

Sunday morning was early. I woke up before my alarm clock, made my oatmeal with the coffee maker, and headed out to meet my pre-scheduled Uber. Got to the start, and met up with some other RWB Eagles, and just let it all sink in. I stripped off my sweats with 5 minutes to the start, and then boom, 10-minute delay so a band could finish setting up and get out of the road. I shook if off like ski race delay, and just focused on the end goal. I took off, probably faster than I needed too, and promptly slowed because of an issue on the outside of my calf. At mile 8 or 9 things finally started to feel good, and I ran into my parents, Jacob, and X. I grabbed another packet of Honey Stinger gummies from them, and proceeded on. 

Things were going, and then we got to the blue mile. This was something I knew was going to be emotional- I had submitted my friend’s name to honor him, (1LT Dimitri A. DelCastillo), and I started to sniffle as we got closer to the date he was killed in action. I had strangers hold my hands, and as I knelt to say hi to his photo, they rubbed my back, we picked up, continued, and were carried on through the cheers of those carrying the flags honoring the soldiers we have lost. In addition to honoring Del, I ran with my friend Taylor Allen Force’s name on my back, and on a bracelet on my wrist. Both are West Point graduates, and were taken from us too soon. Taylor was killed by a terrorist in Israel while on a trip with his MBA program, and Del was killed in action, while calling for more support for his soldiers. 

The rest of the race went. My stomach soured, and I did my best to keep going. When I ran into my family again, Jacob could see that I was not doing well, and he ran (well walk/jog) across the bridge with me. He was a great support, and I dropped him back off with my parents and X at mile 23 or so, which I am sure he was happy about, as he really wasn’t in running clothes, and had just eaten a fried chicken sandwich with my dad before hopping on the course with me. That’s true love. I tried to not beat myself up about the time, as honestly, I wasn’t happy with it. My feet hurt, I could feel blisters on my feet getting bigger, and my stomach was angry. I finally got to the last little bit of the race- I met up with a coach from another team, and he was walking/running with me. He finally got me to understand that I shouldn’t beat myself up. For those of you who don’t know, I’m a recovering perfectionist, and I was upset about how things were going. He finally got me to realize that I balanced everything, and just helped me get to the finish line. I don’t even know his name, but he made it in a few of my photos (wearing a winter hat at 86 degrees out), so huge shout out to him. He carried me to where my family was, (you can see me looking over to them in the photo) who then pushed me up that last hill, where I got some sweet finish line air time, being announced that I was a finisher of the Marine Corps Marathon. Everything hurt. I was so happy, I cried- you can see tears in my eyes in some finish photos, and I slowly made my way to get my stuff. It’s honestly still a blur to me. I really don’t know how I did it all, and my body held up, because honestly two days after, I came down with a nasty case of strep throat, so thank you to my body for holding up long enough for me to finish. 

       

Finishing with a work in progress behind me. Pretty much how I see myself as a runner- a work in progress. So that’s my story- I refuse to focus on my time because I met my original goal of finishing. I’m not sure what my next move is. I’m still waiting on finish photos with my family, but this will have to do for now. It was a blur, it was painful, it was emotional, and it was LONG. But I did it- and I’m just going to ride that feeling for a little bit longer. 

Thanks to John for the support along the way, and letting me post a celeb post in his blog, Kara for the training plans, Jacob and my family for the love and support, and I’m going to thank myself, for realizing that what I did was enough for this first go around. It’s a great race for those wondering, and I’ll see what my next steps are!

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Editors Closing Thoughts: 

Goodness gracious. Now if that don't inspire you , you need to go check to make sure your alive! Seriously, what a warrior this woman is ! Amazing Job!!!

Beth, I know I have said it before, and I'll say it again publicly : You are a ROCK.STAR! Anyone who can balance getting your PHD, Life, and the riggors of Marathon Training deserves all the regognition and glory ! I am so stinking proud of you! I knew the day I met you in Ashville, you were destined to join that marathon club. It's just something about people you could tell. I knew right off, this girl has the guts to do this. Thank you for letting me ride this rollercoaster with you . All those late night talks of getting out of your head worked! See what happens when you just go! You amaze yourself! I have never been prouder of you! I can't wait to see what the future holds ! One day, were gonna get to share the roads again, and I am almost willing to bet that when we do , chances are it will probably be 26.2 . 

HOORAH! And MISSION. ACCOMPLISHED!

To my readers: 

Thank you for taking time to stop by and check this out. A little out of the ordinary, but like I stated earlier, when I find someone or something that deserves a space to write , then by golly , I am gonna let them have their moment! Thank you all for your continued support. 

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Race Report & Honest Review 

(Editors Note: Normally, I do not do these type of blogs. You all are used to and VERY Supportive of my normal race reviews, which means the world to me. So thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Occasionally though, things strike me as something to avoid. At the very end of this, you will find a 100% honest race review from me. If you do not want to read it, that is no big deal. But I want to provide my honest opinion of this race this year.) 

This weekend was IT! FINALLY ! Time for my Fall "A" race. The 4 Bridges Half Marathon. I had a BLAST last year as I ran this for my last long run leading into taper for the Marine Corps Marathon. When it came time to pick a fall "A" race, this race was a no brainer for me. It would be this race. I could go spend time with my sister & her husband & really enjoy my time. 

I left Saturday Afternoon after getting some last min pt in, and got on the road. Saturday was packet pickup. I grabbed my stuff , browsed through the thrown together expo (more on this later), and got out of there. I then grabbed my shoes and stuff and did my shakeout run. I felt great. I was solid as a rock with tempo and I knew I was ready to rock & Roll. It was all hands on deck time. 

After packet pickup & shakeout, I had some time to kill before seeing a special screening of the Barkley's Marathon movie & then yes, getting to meet race Director, Gary "Laz" Cantrell. I had seen the movie before, but before a race, it was heck of an encouraging and inspiring thing to see. Even cooler after that was getting a Q&A time with Laz. That stands out as something I won't forget. But, the highlight, for me, after the film & Q&A was being able to meet Laz. As soon as I asked him for a picture, he was like HELL YEA! So, I got to take a picture with him. This guy is as cool as they come & just like myself, a Redneck. He was so fun to talk to and just hang with . 

After this was over, I then made my way over to my sisters house for some dinner & to turn in for the night after watching a little football. Tomorrow was to be the day. Finally, I was going to take my 2:30 and make it mine. 

Race Day : 

I woke up early to get dressed and get taped up, and to get there early. I am one that likes to be 90 min early AT LEAST to my features. It allows me to park, clear my head, get ready , and drop my bag , and warm up. I do better this way. So , it was an early day. Once I got breakfast eat, which for those of you who are interested in my nutrition, was a big peice of baked chicken, with salt, pepper, garlic , and onion, some rice, and some veggies, I headed over. Once over, I found my rwb people and hung out with them till the marathon left at 7 am. Then I had to get ready in earnest.

I warmed up by walking briskly. Ideally, I would have liked to have done a little jog to get the hr up, but I wanted to try to find the 2:30 pace team and get ready. I finally found them in line. They told us that we would try to keep around a 11 min mile to be able to pull it back around water stops and hills. This was to be a little faster than I wanted, but I had my watch setup for my goal in case I needed to drop. Pretty soon, it was SHOW TIME. 

The weather was muggy and sticky. It was going to take all of the stars aligning to do this, but I was so confident. By the time we climbed up the first hill, i knew we were cooking, but I didn't want to see my goal time fly by that fast. So I hung with them. The first mile was MOVING at a 10:15 pace. WAY TO FAST. I was like , its early race adreniline, in a min or so it will drop down. But, it never did. They kept this tempo , and I knew , I couldn't hang this way. So, I pulled it back and let them go up the road. They gave me an evil glare like are you not coming, but I just started running my race , and my race alone. This was 1.5 miles in. 

By mile 4 my body was beginning to fight me. This was NOT how this was supposed to work. I remained calm. By mile 6, I knew, 2:30 was gone. It hurt, and I took a few min to think over how I can make this a good day, and to keep myslef going. So, I was like, OK, just a PR would be cool. So, I adjusted my watch and started running that as best as I could. However, my body continued to fight me. I am not sure if it was heat, hydration, or just wasn't my day. But I continued on. 

By right around mile 8, I had to have a real long talk with myself. It looked like a general PR was not going to happen, and I really had to work through a dark moment. I then remembered I love to help others, and set out to find me someone to pace in. As it was supposed to be, I pulled up next to a girl and we started talking. She was just trying to hang on as I was. I was like , I am just trying to find someone to help out, so lets do this. This actually turned out to be the saving moment in this race to making it a good day out. 

We were chatting about everything. We would run walk as our bodies needed it. We made a pact that if one of us was ready, we could fly, but we would generally hang out and get through this. Come to find out, she knows a few of my best friends from the Pride of the Southland Marching band at Tennessee, so we had a awsome chat about that. 

Around mile 10 we hit UTC Campus on the greenway. That was a spirit booster because I knew where we were and this would soon be over. Might  I add, I was in pretty bad agony right now. I had cramps and all going on and was hanging on. Normally I can pace with the best of them around 3 hours, but for some reason, my body was fighting me. It was just not my day, and I was STRUGGLING. 

What should have been mile 10.5, we knew something was wrong,because we passed mile 11 sign in the bushes. It was WAY too soon. We both checked our watches and devices, and knew this isn't good. But we were determined. 

We hit the bridge, and it was like I was done. She took off , but kept turning back to encourage me. This was the first time I laid eyes on my sister and her husband. I was in a real spot of difficulty and was just hanging on . I finally caught my friend about that time, and felt ok. But every stride I took, I felt my calves pulse and knot up. This was the same thing that happens in a marathon. I had to work through it. I knew my girl was going to pr, and that had been my focus for over an hour. 

She flew down the hill, and I had nothing. not a thing. I legged it out and managed to finish. Here are some of the pictures from the closing moments of the race. You can clearly see how bad I was hurting. LOL!

Finally , it was over & done! 2:30 didn't happen. 2:40 didn't happen. A PR didn't happen. But I was fine. What I did do, after catching up with the girl once I located her after the race, was find out that was a 17 min PR I pulled her too. That was a W in my book. So a good day . The race , as I would later find out, and will discuss more in a few moments, was .6 too short. So, even if I had PR, I couldn't have counted it, because it was short course. Then, I find out the marathon is over a mile too long. Like I said, more on that later. 

I texted and spoke with coach and we would discuss through various communications over the next few hours what had happened , and what could have been done differently, and things of that nature. I would also ask a question , that would in turn, determine my goal for my next race ;) We now have a plan for that as well. 

I met up with my sister and her husband and got this lovely shot of us. In front of the rhino/bull. Well, because, honestly, it fit. LOL! The race had been full of it. LOL!

After this , I finally cooled down and got some food. It was not up to par with last year, at all. Again, more in a bit. But I ate, and it was good. Then I headed back to my sisters house to eat lunch, shower , cool down, and get home. I needed a NAP! LOL!

So yes, this didn't go as planned. At all. But this was still a good day. I was able to help someone to a MASSIVE PR, and to me, if I couldn't hit my goals, I wanted to help someone hit theirs. Period. Also, It was extremely good to get to see family. That is always a huge plus. To have them show up for my races is always motivating. Always. 

In 2 weeks, I will be re-lining up for another go at 2:30 . My focus now is recovery and proper nutrition to get my body healed back up and ready to push this again. Frankly, I can't wait. Things just didn't line up this time, and it's OK. That is part of this sport. It can humble you so quick. It just is what it is. I will leave it at that. 

So, back to work we go. Time to get going again. 

(for those of you wanting the honest race review , it will be below this conclusion. ) 

So, until I talk to you all again in probably 2 weeks time..... 

From One "Idiot" to another- 

John 

IRC #2148 

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HONEST RACE REVIEW 

Please understand, I don't do things like this. But when something needs to be brought to attention, or needs to be avoided, especially something that cost money, like this, I am going to let my readers know. 

Last year, I found this race as a shakedown before MCM. It was great. Amazing food, amazing swag, amazing post race, pre race, all of it. Beautiful run, full length. But this year was so much different. 

The Half was .6 too short & the Marathon was 1.22 miles too long. This not only hurts the athletes, it hurts their times. Some may loose a BQ over this. This is NOT the first time this has happend. This is the 2nd time in 3 years this has happened. This is not cool. 

Then the parking. After charging us a 100 bucks to run, they charged us 35 more for parking AT THE PARK that should have been FREE. Again. 

The T shirts were a fiasco. instead of a bad ass looking shirt, we get a last second tossed together plain tshirt with a logo due to vendor errors. No offer to make all this up. the ones that bought a extra shirt get the correct shirt mailed to them. This should have been the way it was with all of them. Period. No questions. I know tons of people were mad about this going in . The rest was the tipping point. 

The next thing is the medals. The Full and the 5k had enormus , Race specific medals. The Half, had a generic medal that was re-used from a 5k, with a sticker on it. Just ridiculous. They could give us a UNIQUE one like last year. 

The towels that we got from last year were not there this year. It was hot and humid. I was expecting a towel to wipe off with. Nothing. Absolutely nuts. 

Pacers: Last year I ran with them. They were amazing. Certified at their pace and really good. Actually learned a lot and found a love for it from them. Had their certs on display last year at the expo. This year , not so much. Horrible. Running 10 min miles on 11:25 goal pace is ridiculous. Instead of asking if I am ok when I drop, they glare like you can't hang? I am like really? I understand that this is a chance you take, and I learned a lesson, but at the same time, I really expected more out of the pacers. 

Then the post race food was AWFUL! Last year we got to make our own waffles This year we were served waffle sticks, and had to ask for more. Then the sausage was vegan sausage. I ate it because I was starving and was looking forward to this , but it was disapointing at best. 

The post race stretch tent was 30 deep with 10 therapist. I could get this 100% and honestly I expected that. 

What got me the most fired up was a combination of all of this for the price we  paid. We expect and pay for a full length race and expect great swag. and good food. we got shafted on the shirts, the medals, and the food. The experience of a great run was had, don't get me wrong, but when its all is put together it leaves a sour taste. 

2 out of 3 years in INEXCUSABLE for a short/long course. Period. That indicates a history. They announced it on facebook late yesterday afternoon, and at last check there were over 200 comments most of them not real happy. 

Would I recommend this race? Going into this race, yes absolutely. After all the issues this year, and knowing it happend year before last, I would probably not. 

I know I probably won't go back next year until its guaranteed that its fixed. They have said we should get an email about some kind of offer, but I am not sure I want to chance it again. I had a great time, but the race was just really not that well handled this year all told. If I do go back, it would be to see family. That would be a priority. 

If your looking for a East Tennessee fall run , I suggest checking out the Chikamagua Battlefield race. I haven't done it, but have read about it, and it sounds like a top notch race. 

Again, sorry for all the negatives here , but I just wanted to let you all know that this might be something to steer clear of. 

John 

Cross Knox 15K Shakeout

This past Sunday, I had the chance to get back on the starting line for another race this year. This was the Cross Knox 15K It was a point to point race from The Morningside Park back to Bearden Elementary school via the greenways. As fate would have it , I have seen these roads more than a few times. 

The weather was not desirable. Muggy , Rainy, humid. MOIST. All of it. But what had to be done had to be done. This was the last chance to make sure all systems were go before Next weekends A RACE. 

Started out hot. Wanted to turn a hard mile or 2. Then the heat really set in. It got so bad I took off my hat and threw it in my pocket. When the cold win blew in , it felt great. But during the heat, when it was raining, holy crap dude. It was miserable. 

By about mile 4 or 5, I was done. I managed to press on 1 more mile, and caught up with a girl I had been yo-yoing the whole way. Once i caught up with her, that was it. I was 10k into the race, and knew I would make the time cut, so I went ahead and just walked it in. 

Never have I been so glad to be in. I was hurting ALL OVER. Everything was sore, tight, and just brutal. But, the run was in the books, and that is all that it needed to be. It was feet time. 

Now, to rest, and prepare for the A RACE next weekend. I have worked so hard to get here. 230, your day with the devil is coming. Prepare to meet your maker. 

Until Next time- 

John 

IRC # 2148 

Augusta 70.3 2017: Through the Eyes of a Sherpa

L to R: Brooke Leigh , Heather Cribbs. Myself, Coach Rebecca Adamson; Sarah Cook

This past weekend, I had the honor and privilege of heading down the road to Augusta, Georgia to the Augusta 70.3 Iron-man race . I was going to be a Sherpa for the weekend. I wouldn't be racing, but I would be there for moral support and in case trouble arose. I would be on the sidelines watching, & tracking at the same time. More importantly, I would FINALLY be getting to meet some of my KREndruance teammates whom I have talked with forever and now finally get the chance to meet a few. 

I got in late Friday night after enjoying a baseball game. Saturday, I met up with the team. It was instant mojo. Like , we all knew each other. We do because we are so supportive through thick and thin. But to get to meet these folks face to face adds a different element too it. I love it. 

We went to dinner and literally sat and talked for 3 solid hours. Like family. We are a family. It was beautiful. Finally just getting to sit and talk and talk about life, ups and downs of training, etc, was just frankly , BEAUTIFUL! That's the best way I know to describe it. 

After dinner we split up , and made plans to meet back up on Sunday at the athlete village to watch our athletes take on the course. 

Sunday came early. Once we got down there the intensity was already there , but so was the excitement. We had our first teammate go out with one of the charity waves and then the others soon followed. Once our teammate was in the water, we booked it a mile and a quarter down the road to transition. For this race, there was 1 transition area for both swim to bike and bike to run. We were able to get a spot right on the rail to see our teammates , all of them come out of the water.  During the swim, I was actively tracking the athletes on the app, and then posting updates to our team page. In no way did I have much free time. I was right there keeping an eye out for our athletes, or watching trackers. We were yelling and cheering. We then moved over to the bike exit to watch them come out and head out of town on a bike ride. 

Once we cheered on everyone, we headed back downtown, to grab some food, and then to setup for the run. It was probably about 2 hours after we got downtown that we finally saw our first teammate , Coach Rebecca. She looked PHENOMENAL! We exchanged a few words, then me and Brooke split. She went over to check in on one of our other athletes, while I held the fort down and kept an eye on trackers. This would be the way things would work for the rest of the afternoon as we kept an eye on our team . We were positioned in a spot where we got to see each one on the course at least twice. and were between both sides of the run where we could run and check on them if needed. 

It was about 230 or 3 when Coach Rebecca made it down the finish shute. So proud. We were then joined by her for the rest of the afternoon. It made watching each teammate come in more and more emotional. You sit there and you watch these athletes lay there heart and soul out there. Us Athletes go through so much training, and so many sacrifices , and just to see so many get the reward, its very VERY Emotional. It leaves you speechless in many cases. It really does. 

I was able to sit and talk with the team after everyone had crossed the line. They all made it safe and sound. It was PHENOMENAL! 

One thing I can say about the weekend is the fact this did make me more interested in Tri's and the work that goes into them. I am not saying now or later, but it is something to look at. 

I did wind up taking a ton of pictures. You can follow this link to see some of those. https://www.facebook.com/john.rausin/media_set?set=a.10207764525709595.1073741849.1787389770&type=3&pnref=story

Overall I can't put into words the amount of love and pride in this team. Its beyond anything I have ever come across and I couldn't be prouder to be a part of this team. 

In closing, I want to thank Rebecca, Heather, Sarah, Brooke, & Scott for allowing me to run around with them all weekend. It made this a truly memorable 1st Triathlon experience and one I will never forget. Getting to meet everyone was truly the icing on the cake this weekend. I know I have said it before but this is the BEST. TEAM. EVER.

- John -