Twice As Nice

     Here were are a week from the Pittsburgh Marathon of 2017.  Like last year, it pretty much has taken me a while to process all that has happened leading up to race, as well as the race itself.  My emotions have definitely been running high since then, but I think I'm finally able to settle down.

Myself, Amy, and Sara

     The week leading up to the marathon, everyone I know that was running checked the weather non-stop.  In true fashion, the weather was unpredictable.  Sure, news channels pay people to do that, but we all know far too well that the weather can change at any minute.  One day it was going to be seventy degrees.  The next day it was going to be 35 and rainy.  But, what we got, was the perfect day.

     As calm as I kept telling myself I was, it was very apparent that I was pretty excited.   The day before the race I volunteered to help the Steel City Road Runner's both in the earlier part of the day.  I was told numerous times by Coach Betsy that I needed to just sit down and relax.  I couldn't though.  I was in such a good mood. After I was done with my shift, I picked up my bib and race packet, and then I walked around a little bit.   I checked a few vendors out, grabbed some gels, and then just happened to glance over at these video screens that Dick's had showing pictures from past races.  As soon as I looked at the screen I saw none other than myself...running in a tutu from 2014.  I stood there and bust out laughing,   Of all pictures to use in their rotation, they happened to find that gem!  It was a nice laugh to have before I headed home.

Look who made the 2017 Marathon program.
I'm in green and Kim Jurica next to me in the
blue tank top.

     As I relaxed at home and got my dinner ready, I felt myself becoming tired.  This was good.  I thought that if I was feeling tired, I would be able to sleep prior to the race.  But, when I finally crawled into bed sure enough I could feel my heart beating as well as the blood flowing.  It looked like I was in for a long night.  I kept checking the time, getting up to use the rest room, and the last thing I remember was it being just past 11:00 PM.  The next thing I knew, my alarm was going off at 4:00 AM and it was time to get ready to run.

     I got down to the Westin hotel where there was a waiting area for members of the Steel City Road Runners group.   It was nice to be able to get something to eat prior to running, as well as a place to keep warm on that chilly morning.  I kept texting my friends to see where they were at as well as how they were doing.  I really wanted to be sure I got to see everyone prior to the start of their races.  I did get to see half of them, but not all, but that didn't change the fact that we were all encouraging each other as much as possible.  All I wanted for everyone was to have a good time and a good day, and it looked like we were about to do just that.

Sara, Chad, Marty, Kim Kirsten, and I

Steph, Amy, and Sara

All of my dedications

The Steel City Road Runners Group
Photo Cred: SCRR

     I said in my previous post how there seemed to be something in the air, a special buzz.  That didn't change on race morning.  You could feel the excitement in the crowd.  Everyone was smiling and laughing, taking pictures, and just plain ready to go.  I was able to meet up with a few of my friends prior to heading to the corral which I really wanted to do.  There were a few others who were already in their corrals, but again the texting made us all feel a little more at ease.  But now it was time to head to the coral, and before I knew it, I was running.

     Within the first mile we came upon the SCRR cheer station where coach Suzanne and Coach Betsy excitedly told us they would see us at mile 25.  I was looking forward to that, but mainly because they had margaritas and I would be very thirsty by that point in the race.  The first few miles in the city were going great.  I was running with two folks from the group, Ryan Walker and Adrienne Tolentino Essey, and we were having a really good time.  We were chatty.  We were goofy.  We were not really bothered by the fact that we were about to spend the next 4 hours together doing nothing but running.  Well, that soon changed.  About mile 5 it was down to two of us as Ryan had to take care of personal business (sorry Ryan.)  A short time after that, Adrienne told me to just go ahead and not worry about her and to have a great race.   So, I did.

Coach Suzanne and Coach Betsy ready to cheer
Photo Cred: Coach Suzanne

     I passed the 4:30 pacer on the West End bridge and I'd be lying if I didn't have a smile on my face at that point.  I knew I was running well, and I knew I felt well.  Even with the cloud cover going away and the sun pounding my face, the temperature was still very cool.   Compared to the previous year, this was my kind of running weather.  On a recommendation from Ryan, I protected myself with this liquid band-aid stuff.  He told me how well it worked for him so I figured I'd give it a shot.   Bad move on my part.  Around mile 8 I noticed the discomfort and when I saw the aid station volunteers with sticks of Vaseline, I bolted towards them.  TMI?  Maybe, but my nipples were in bad shape.  The rest of me wasn't.  My legs were moving and I was still smiling.

Mile 1 done! Photo Cred: Coach Suzanne

Steel City Cheer Section. Photo Cred: Coach Suzanne
and SCRR

     I was approaching the South Side when I heard someone yell my name.  I turned around it was my friend Sara.  Sara was doing great.   She told me that she was tired but I knew she was making good time.  This was her second year doing the half, and seeing her made me proud knowing how far she and some of my other friends have come since they took up running.   We stopped for a quick picture and again off I went.

Sara and I in the South Side

I know her! I know her!

     The most treacherous part of our course was just ahead: Forbes Avenue.   As I ran across the Birmingham Bridge I knew what was looming, but, if I could get up the hill last year, I could do it again this year.  It's such a huge relief when you get to the top of that hill.  However, another mile and a half later I felt it.  It was about this time last year when I started to get tired, also.  I told myself to keep going but once I got to mile 16 I began to walk for a little bit.  But you know what?  That didn't bother me at all.  It actually helped me a lot.  Sure my miles would be a little slower, but I was running my second marathon, and I was going to finish yet again.  This time though, it didn't seem so crazy.

Joe Glozzer and I after 22 was in the books.

   
     At the mile 21 marker I heard my name again and there was my buddy Joe.  I stopped and gave Joe a hug and told him how good it was to see him.  I only had 5 miles to go, and I was exhausted so Joe being in the right place at the right time truly was what I needed.  He asked me why I was stopping and I said to say hi to him.   He looked it me and said, "but I'm going to run with you for a little bit."   I looked at him and said, "really?  That's awesome!"  I asked him how far he was running and he told me just to the mile 22 marker.  I made sure to take a quick picture with Joe at the end of the mile and with another hug I kept at it.  Funny story though, is that it wasn't until later in the day when Joe posted the picture that it hit me why he ran that mile with me.  That was the mile that I dedicated to his late father in law.  He told me he was honored to run that mile with me, but it was really my honor.  When I told him that he just laughed and said, "if I ran the first 21 miles I would have been in the hospital so I'll let you slide on this one."  Hey, after running 21 miles, you tend to forget about everything except how to put one foot in front of the other.

     Another one of my friends was waiting around the corner as she lives in the area.  Little did I know was that Shelby would spell my name wrong on the sign she made for I and another friend of ours that was also running that day.  I rewarded her with a nice gross hug as I had just run through a misting station.  See what happens when you forget the K in my name?  1 point to Gryfndor.  After seeing her I knew what was coming: only about three and a half miles.   I was still smiling.  I was still feeling good.  I didn't regret this decision a second time.  I saw the clock time when I finished the mile and seeing what I saw reassured me how well I was doing over the previous year.  No matter how tired I was at that point, it was nothing like my first marathon.

     As I got close to finishing mile 24, the band entertaining everyone running was playing the Foo Fighters and a song I knew.  It only took 24 miles (and I tell you I was dying to do this all day,) so I made a straight shot over to the band and looked at their singer with my cheesy grin.  He knew what was going to happen, so he just stepped back, I belted out a lyric and then went back to running.  The whole band erupted with a cheer as I took off and I just chuckled and called myself a dork.

(enjoy this video of our coaches having fun - acquired from them)

     I decided to take another short break when two guys that I had trained with came up from behind me and passed me.  I told them they were both doing a great job, and seeing as they were running, I picked my pace back up.   I then got to the Steel City cheering station and was greeted with smiles and high fives all around.  It was pretty awesome.  Coach Betsy and Coach Suzanne were all over the middle of the street giving everyone the extra boost they needed to finish.  I gave Betsy a nice hug and thanked her for being a great coach, and still felt the need to walk just a little more.  As I did that out of no where came our friend Deanna.  She's tiny and hard to spot and kinda scared the crap out of me when she asked me how I was feeling.  I said pretty tired but she too encouraged me to keep running and walked me to to Coach Suzanne.  Suzanne grabbed my hand and ran me the next two blocks and said I was making great time and she was extremely proud and happy for me and everyone else.  As soon as she was out of ear shot I had to walk again.  That's when Tom and Kevin passed me again.

     Tom and Kevin made sure I knew I only had a half mile left so I picked it back up and turned the corner prior too Mile Marker 26.   I was so close.  I was making good time, and I was still happy.  I was tired as all hell, but I was happy.  Tom and Kevin passed me up again so needless to say they gave me another boost and they were right.  It wasn't time to walk.  It was time to finish.  I took my phone out and turned off the music.  I didn't need it as I could hear the crowd.  I also saw a text from Kim that said I was almost there and killing it (thank you Garmin Live Tracker.  And thank you Kim.)

     As the crowd grew larger, so did the noise and the cheers.   And then, there I saw it: two outstretched arms holding in the air two cans of beer.  Bryan you beautiful S.O.B.  I saw everyone there even though I was focused on the beer.  It was so awesome seeing my friends at the finish.  I've known these people for so long and being able to share moments like that with them is just something you will always remember.  I grabbed my beers, turned the corner, and just like last year I crossed the finish line.

     It's hard to believe that I ran a marathon last year, but now I've run two.  I'm still trying to wrap my head around that.  I'm the kind of person that doesn't like to give myself much credit for anything,  but I really to  here.  I've done something I never thought I would ever do, and I've now done it for the second time.  However I couldn't do it alone.  I didn't do it alone.

     I ran with Sara, Steph, and Amy.  I ran with Ryan, Adrienne, Jessie, and Diana and all of SCRR.  I ran with Kirsten, Chad, and Marty.  These people trained with me.  They sweated with me.  They shared my aches, and they shared my pains.  But, more importantly, they crossed that finish line with me.  Because of them, my coaches, SCRR, Team RWB, my friends and family, I am able to continue doing things I never thought I'd be able to do.  Every step and every mile of this and every race is something I could never do alone.  A marathon is tiring.  It's grueling.  It's mind numbing.  But, it's also amazing, and I'm glad I didn't have to do it alone.  I wouldn't have it any other way.

     God I love this town, and I love all of you.

     Thank you.

     Now, on to the next journey!  I'll see you on the trails next month, and then I'll see you in Chicago.

     Until then....keep on running Pittsburgh.


     Sinceriously,

     Chuck Hull,   The Running Jedi.

I rang the hell out of that bell, and walked away
like a champ.

Coming in 2018????  Only time will tell!

Ready For Round 2

   

Thank you to David and Bonnie for this awesome t-shirt

     Here we are 3 days away from the Pittsburgh Marathon, and I'm somehow still eerily calm.  I'm not sure why that is.   I know the challenge that running a marathon brings, especially after my first go at it a year ago.  Facebook was nice enough to remind me of that this past Monday.

     This year, I feel like I have a good idea of what to expect.  What I really should expect, however, is actually the unexpected.  Anything can happen in three days.  Heck, anything could happen in one, but I'm not going to think like that.  I've been training for months now, and there is only one goal in mind.   I'm not the only one either.

     So many of us have trained for this day.  We've trained alone.  We've trained with a partner.  We've trained in a group.  I've followed conversations online between other runners, as well those with my friends.  Everyone is nervous, and have the jitters.  But at the same time, all of us are excited.  Knowing all of this, I think I may be looking more forward to this Sunday than I was last year.

     When I lined up in my corral with my friend Kirsten and Kim a year ago, I knew there was no turning back.  I had gotten that far, and I only had a little ways to go (if you want to call running 26 miles a little way.)  I crossed that starting line and everything that I trained for had become surreal.  Seeing everyone at the finish line was nothing sort of amazing as well, and despite my brain telling me otherwise, I knew I was going to do it again.  That brings us to today, where I and so many others are at - 3 days out from the Pittsburgh Marathon and Half Marathon.

Photo cred: Coach Suzanne.  Heck all these photos
are courtesy of her unless otherwise noted. Thanks Coach!

     Everything about this year's race seems....different.   I don't mean that in a negative way either.  There seems to be something in the air, like this vast wave of positive energy and good vibes.  My closest friends, the people I've trained with, all of us really, truly are getting more and more excited for Sunday.  Sure, we have jitters like I've already said, but you can still sense the excitement.  We're all making our plans to meet at the starting line, stay together, and provide the support that we've grown accustomed to having since we began our journeys in January and February.   That is a truly wondrous thing.

   

My longtime friend Stephanie Haas
who is probably going to kill me for sharing
this pic.

My lifelong friend Sara Majetic's Race attire.
All races are for her brother Lou.  RIP.

     In my spare time I've kept on top of training tips from those that have run countless miles on the road.   I've spent time reading articles from running magazines that I've never bothered to so much as glance at before.  I feel as though I'm more focused than I was a year ago, and yet that was the first time I took a shot at something this big.  I not obsessing over my finish time, my pace, or trying to beat someone.  I'm just focused on the task at hand, just like everyone else.

Coach Betsy happy to be back in action!

     Most of us have always had a vague picture of what we felt a runner should look like, and it's just like any other stereo type.  But really, what is a runner supposed to look like?  What I've learned since I began running is that runners are nothing more than this beautiful melting pot of people, each one so different, yet also the same.  A runner looks like him and like her.  A runner looks like me.  A runner looks like you.

     Our sizes and our shapes do not determine whether or not we can or cannot run.  It also doesn't determine what we can and cannot do.  So what is it that makes all of us runners?  That's easy.  It's our heart and it's our soul.  Those the two things that have gotten us this far.  We just now have to go a little bit further (you know, if you want to call 13 or 26 miles a little further to go.)

     Have a great time Sunday morning Pittsburgh.  I'll see you all at the finish line.

Sinceriously,

Chuck Hull,     The Running Jedi

Oh, and May the 4th be with you.... (you knew I was sneaking this in here.)

STILL TIME TO DONATE AND ONLY $570 from goal!!!! If I get $500 today, I'll put in the last bit my self!

https://www.crowdrise.com/MarioLemieuxPitt2017/fundraiser/chuckhull  

26 Miles, 26 Dedications Version 2.0

     Last year, as most of you know, I was at about mile 20 when I was telling myself how crazy I was for running a marathon.  I hit the wall and I was tired.  I said I would never do something like that ever again.  I'm a big fat liar.

    I wanted to do something special while I ran, so when I set out on my quest, I led with a theme, a mission so to speak: 26 miles, 26 dedications.  So many people can have an affect on our lives.  We look up to some of those people.  We admire them.  We get inspired by them.

     When I was growing up, I always saw myself as this type of person.  I remember my mother had went to see a psychic with some friends for fun, and when asked for a picture of her children, the woman pointed to me all freaked out saying I was going to save the world.  Apparently this women knew somehow that I loved comic books and lived on plant Chuck.   Even at a young age I got a huge laugh when my mom told all of us that little story.  I'm 44 years old and I haven't quite saved the world.   However, it doesn't mean that I never thought I would do something important.  I'm still trying to figure out what that is.

    I always envisioned myself as an actor, or a singer.  I even took a small acting class in high school, but when I had to put my arm around a female class mate I found out that was not going to happen.  I pretty much fell apart blushing.  I was just a bit shy back then (far from it now.)  I never knew I could sing until well into my 20s but again it wasn't anything I would pursue.  I was just Chuck - your average Joe, blue collar guy working like everyone else and just living life.  But the older I got, the more I started to change.  Could I do something important that would mean something to someone, even if we didn't know each other?  Well, sure I could.   That's why I've chosen to run for the Mario Lemieux foundation these last few years, and why I chose the theme that I did for my first marathon.  It's my way of giving back and trying to make what I was doing more meaningful.

     I wanted my biggest achievement to mean something to not only me, but to other people as well.   I wanted to honor those that may have fought the good fight and were no longer with us and those that were still fighting.  I wanted to honor those that had an impact on my life, even if they were a perfect stranger, even a celebrity.  Sure we may have never met, but that doesn't mean they hadn't touched my life in some way.  These people inspired me to do good so I wanted to return the favor.

     When registration for this year's marathon opened up at the end of last year, I signed up ready to fight round two with the pavement all throughout Pittsburgh.  I wanted to dedicate my miles once more so that my run would mean something more to not only me, but to others as well.  Some of this list will consist of those I've dedicated miles to last year, but that's because I want them with me a,second time.  Some of this list will have names of people I do not know and have never met, but some of you might.  These people inspire us all, and this year's race is for them.

This may be a long post, but I hope you'll stick around to the end. (I would have loved to use more pics but did not want to do so without permission.)

Mile 1 - Kathy Jane Westfall.   Kathy Jane worked with us but had been going through cancer treatments for quite some time.  She came back in the middle of last summer but could only work a shortened schedule and around the end of the year she had to leave us again for treatment.  We did find out around mid February that she would not be able to return to work, and two weeks ago, she was taken from us.  One of the nicest and sweetest women you could ever meet, she is missed by all of us at BCD Travel.  RIP Kathy Jane.

Mile 2 - Donna Koffler, "Mrs. K"   I still think of you often and will never not.  You were a big part of my life growing up, and I cherish all the memories I have of you.  You will always have not just this mile, but many miles dedicated to you.

Mrs. K.

Mile 3 - Cy Clark and Lou Majetic.   I dedicated miles to them last year, and still wanted to honor them again this year.   RIP.

Mile 4 - The yet to be born child of Gerard and Kara Schaefer.  You're going to be joining this world soon, so I wanted to warn you ahead of time: your parents are NUTS when it comes to the Pens and hockey.  You will be too. You just don't know it yet (but we do, and trust me, it's gonna be fun!)

Mile 5 - David And Bonnie Hamsteads's unborn child.  You are going to be their third little one.  You are going to have two big sisters.  If you are a boy, they are going to torture you (I know this for a . fact.)  If you are a girl, they still might, but chances are you three will be an unstoppable force of nature.  We can't wait to meet you in October.

Dana Zinsner Miara

Mile 6 - Dana Zinsner Miara.  No matter what you are going through, or what treatments you may need, you still show a smile that stretches across the universe.   Don't ever stop.  #teamdana #moonclassof90

Mile 7 - Traci Foley, Lisa Swanson and Alyson Patsilevas.  I've never met these three ladies, but they were Dana's "pink sisters" and meant the world to her.  They were taken from us too soon.  RIP Traci, Lisa, and Alyson.

Michelle Beck and her daughter Maddie

Mile 8 - Michelle Beck.   I know the struggles you've been facing for the last few years, but that doesn't stop you from doing anything and enjoying life.  And it shouldn't.  This mile's for you. (There is usually someone here with beer, so...cheers!) #teambeck

Mile 9 - Sari Oister.  Sari, I graduated high school with your mom.  We never hung out or anything like that, but she was always one of the nicest people growing up and always treated me with kindness.  She is one heck or a role model for you, but now you are a role model for us.  The road ahead for you may be long, but at this point in the race, so is the road ahead of me.  I know you'll keep on going, so I will, too.  #teamsari

Marissa and our friend Carie

Mile 10 - Marissa Stout.  Marissa, it's been a long time since I've seen you or Mike.  I know there is no way I'll fully understand what you have to go through right now, but I know you're not giving up, and you never will.  As long as I'm still running, I'm running as part of #teamstout.

Mile 11 - Janice Fife.  Janice was the mother of my friend Karyn.  I've known Karyn for many years now thanks to the power of the cheese (Velveeta - The State College band and not the actual cheese.)   I saw of her passing back in January right before Karyn's birthday.  It was unexpected, as sometimes with Cancer if not most times it usually is.  I had never met her mom, but I'd still like to honor her memory.

Mile 12 - Tiffany Boehme.  Hi Tiffany.  I don't know you, but I do know you are a friend of Kim Jurica's.   One day she simply said to me "cancer sucks."  She had told me of you, and spoke fondly of you.  I can't even begin to imagine what is going through your mind, or what you may be thinking, but I do know of one thought: keep going.  This is the toughest part of the course, an uphill battle with Forbes Avenue.  I know you have a tough hill to climb as well and way tougher than mine.  I know you'll keep on climbing.  So will I, and it's because of you.  #teamboehme

Mile 13 - Kelly Frey.   Of course I don't know her, but we all know who she is.  We've all watched her for years, and she chose to share her story with the entire city of Pittsburgh.  That is no small feat and I'm sure it took a long time for her to talk about this with us.  She's not done sharing stories either, whether they are hers or someone else's.  I'm not done either.  I'm halfway there, and this mile is for Kelly.  #teamFrey #wtae

Mile 14 - Darran Dunlap.  Most of us sports fans know who Colin Dunlap is.  A well respected sports radio host and sports journalist in Pittsburgh, Colin too shared with the people of Pittsburgh his young daughter's story and how she was diagnosed with cancer.  No adult should ever have to go through this, let alone a young child.  This is another reason why I run for the Lemieux Foundation.  Some of the money raised helps support Austin's Playroom at Children's Hospital, which benefits children like Darran.  Colin keeps us updated on Darran's status when he can, and shows us how strong she is each and every day. He tweeted a picture of her just yesterday showing her resolve.  She is the toughest kid I don't know.  You are amazing Darran, and I can't help but look up to you.  #teamdunlap

Mile 15 - Eric Myers.  Eric was the husband of a women I graduated high school with, author Colleen Myers (back then it was Laughlin.)  He was taken too soon, like so many others.  He had passed a few weeks before last year's marathon, and I had my dedication list written up by then.  I haven't seen Colleen since high school, and I think it's so cool that she is an author.  I hadn't forgotten about her husband's passing, and wanted to honor his memory as well.  Mile 15 is in your memory Ssgt. Myers.

Mile 16 - Lisa Richetti.   Lisa posted online just the other day that she was 7 years cancer free.  What an awesome and incredible thing to read.  It's also something we all want to read and see.

Mile 17 - B.E. Taylor.   Most of us Yinzers know who this is.   For a few years, I lived next door to his brother but did not see him very often.   When I heard of his passing a friend of mine from high school, Pete Cardimen, reached out to me and sent me a message about B.E.  "Chuck - Saw your comments earlier.  Spoke to my mom today who is a neighbor of BEs brother.  They have been the best of neighbors to our family.  Going back years to when my dad was suffering with the complications of COPD and were there for my mom and us at one of the darkest times, always with love.  Thought you might want to see (and share) this video from his son."  I didn't get back to you on this one just yet Pete, but that's because I was saving what you sent for this blog posting.  And, yes, I do want to share that video.   It can be viewed below.  I encourage everyone to click the link and watch.

https://www.facebook.com/betaylormusic/videos/1149690898402474/?autoplay_reason=user_settings&video_container_type=0&video_creator_product_type=2&app_id=2392950137&live_video_guests=0

Mile 18 - Dr. Joseph Udvari.  Dr. Udvari passed away a few weeks ago due to complications with his cancer.   He had been my eye doctor since I was 10 years old.  He knew my family mostly from our visits.  I was DJing the wedding of a co-worker's son and was surprised when he came up to say hi.  He had no idea I was a DJ and a few years later hired me for his 40th class reunion.  He was so fascinated by this and  talked to me all night and made sure I was OK and had everything I needed.  I didn't realize last year when I had my eye exam that he was sick.  You were a good man Doc, and I'll miss our yearly chats.  RIP.

Mile 19 - Franklin Foley.   It's been close to 9 years since you have passed Mr. Foley.  I know Doug, Erin, Kelly, Liz, and Mrs. Foley miss you dearly, and I'm glad to have met you when I did.  I know you're looking down upon them all the time, and so do they.

Mile 20 -   Dorothy Martoia.  She was he grandmother of one of my close friend, Shelby.  We had never met, and she would have been 91 the other day.  She had a great and happy life, and mile 20 will be in the books with her spirit leading the way.

Shelby, her mom Diane, and her Gram Dorothy

Mile 21 - Charles O'Malley.   Charles was the father of my friend Cathy, and father in law to my buddy Joe.  He passed away on Sept 4th, 2015.  I wanted to honor him this year, as well.

Mr. Ervin

Mile 22 - Lawrence J Ervin Sr.  Father of my friends Larry and Chris, Mr. E has passed last August.  Always one that when he saw you he would always take time out of his day to say hello and chat, no matter what he had to do.   RIP Mr. E.

Mile 23 - Dan Rooney.   Do I really need to say anything here?  Thank you Mr. Rooney, for all you meant to the city of Pittsburgh.

Mile 24 - Carrie Fisher and Kenny Baker.  Yes they are celebrities and very well known, and part of the biggest movie franchise that ever existed.  But they were so much more than that.  Kenny never let his size stop him from doing great things in Hollywood and being R2D2 is how most will remember him.  Carrie was so much more than Princess Leia.  She had her struggles in life, but she taught us so much because of them.  She was blunt.  She was honest.  She was freaking hilarious.  May the Force be with your both, always.

Coach Betsy (Photo Credit - SCRR)

Mile 25 - Coach Betsy Magovern and Coach Kim Lambert.  Coach Betsy suffered and injury and was not able to join us on the pavement this year for our training, but she has still been with us every weekend guiding us in other ways.   She's on the road to recovery and will be back soon, but I wanted to let her know we still listen to her, and come race day, what's she's taught us this year will come in handy.  Coach Lambert suffered a stroke after a race approx 6/7 months ago.  She then ran and finished the Boston Marathon after recovery and a doctor's OK.   That is nothing short of amazing.  Congrats Coach.  Keep on running!

Coach Kim at Boston 2017 (Photo Stolen From a SCRR post. Sorry!)

Mile 26 - Mile 26 updated due to life changes.

     Wait a minute!  There are still .2 miles to go!  And with that, Kirsten, Marty, Chad, the 10:00m training pace group from SCRR, my run buddies (Sara, Amy, Stephanie, and Dana) my family and my friends (Bryan beer me again this year, maybe twice.)  We made it this far, and the finish line is within sight.  Let's hoist another beer like we did last year, and lets cross that finish line together!  (Also, thank you Coach Suzanne for helping us all get there.)

Until next time Pittsburgh....keep on running.


Sinceriously,

Chuck Hull     The Running Jedi

#pghmarathon #runpgh #lovetherun #teamlemieux


PS - There is still time to donate to the Mario Lemieux Foundation.  Only $1225 to goal.

https://www.crowdrise.com/MarioLemieuxPitt2017/fundraiser/chuckhull

Paws Over Pittsburgh:

https://www.crowdrise.com/AnimalRescueLeaguePitt2017/fundraiser/kimberlyjurica

Team RWB

https://www.crowdrise.com/TeamRWBPitt2017/fundraiser/stephaniehaas

Easter weekend....the heat has risen.

Photo credit: Adrienne Tolentino Essey

   

Photo Credit: Coach Suzanne

     This past Saturday's run was a tough one.  Not just for me, but for everyone.  You can prepare for a lot of things when it comes to running, but one factor that is always unpredictable is the weather.   Sure, we look at the forecast a week in advance and even every day leading up to a race or a big training run, but the weather can change at any moment.  When I looked at the weather first thing Saturday morning, the high temperature was supposed to be somewhere in the mid 60s.  By the time we were done running, it was almost in the mid 70s.  The sun was our greatest threat.

     The course preview run had started from Market Square and was hosted by Steel City Road Runners group.   Pro Bike And Run as well as Fleet Feet Sports were also assisting in the days festivities.  A few of us arrived early as we had 22 miles on our training schedules, and the course preview had us running 20.  We knocked those two miles out quickly, and anxiously awaited the big run to begin.  When we took off for those two miles, some of the registered runners were beginning to arrive, but by the time we got back, Market Square was flooded with over 700 excited runners ready to go.  There was a buzz in the air, too.  Everyone was brimming with excitement, and with the blue sky above, we couldn't have asked for a better day.

Photo Credit: Coach Suzanne

     Then, we were all off and running (literally.)

     By the time we got to the West End Bridge, everything was going great.  All the runners in our pace group (over 80 strong) were chatty, smiling, and having a fun time.   We could feel the sun beaming down on us, but the clouds had started to roll in and the temperatures remained cool.  By our 7th mile, a few of us decided we were treating ourselves to the Milkshake Factory when we were done.   I mean, why wouldn't we?  I couldn't think of a better way to start the tapering.  By mile 11, the clouds had moved on, and the sun was shining bright.  The temperatures were also climbing.

Photo Credit: Coach Suzanne

     You could tell that the heat was starting to take it's toll on a lot of us.   We went from talking about milk shakes, to trying to figure out how far we had until the next water station.  I know for me, at about mile 12, I needed to cool off in a bad way.  I desperately wanted to dump water over my head, but since I was wearing my camel back I had to wait until we reached the water stop.  I knew it was close, but it seemed like it more than miles ahead.  When we arrived, I couldn't help but dump enough water on my head as well as on my wrists at it's pressure points.   Man did that feel good.  It as just what I needed as I was able to power through the next few miles with the group.  The sun was relentless however, and there was no shade to be had anywhere.  The heat was heavily affecting me.

     I took about a 2 or 3 block break and walked just a bit, but kept telling myself I only had a few miles to go.  If I could, I should power through to the next aid station.   I was a little bit behind the pace group at this point, but I started to gain a little ground running down Liberty Avenue.  By the time I got to the final water stop, I was back with the group and ready to cool off some more.   It was getting hotter and I could tell I was pretty exhausted.   I told myself the end was near and pretty soon 20 miles would be in the books.  (I kept forgetting that I had already run 2 miles before we began.)  I poured more water on my head, down my back, on my wrists, pretty much anywhere that would cool me off.   What I really wanted to do was make a break for it and jump in the river.  I'm pretty sure I was not alone in that thinking.

Photo Credit: Diana Cannon

     At this point in the day and only three more miles to go, our pace group was being led by a woman named Alyssa Cammarata Chance.   I don't know her personally but what I do know is that this woman is an absolute beast and nothing short of a machine.  She helped a lot of runners get through the final stretches of the morning.  Full of energy, she looked at the group and asked everyone if they were ready to go.  OK, she didn't really ask; she more or less cheered it out.  With everyone answering the same way, she belted out a "let's go" followed by about 40/50 cheers of excitement.  Me?  I just half smiled trying to figure out of I could keep up.  I couldn't, but, I thought as long as everyone was within eye sight, I would just keep on going.

     I got about a half mile from the water stop and I felt a little light headed and a little queesy.  So, I did what I hate to do.  I stopped and I walked.  I wasn't ashamed of doing so, because I knew that I had no choice.  My mind knew I needed a break, and so did my body.   I had already run just over 19 miles that day and the sun was not going away any time soon.  Plus, I walk fast so there's that.  I did catch up to another runner from our group who also needed to stop so we kept each other company for about a mile.  I'm glad I chose to stop and walk because after that 15 minute walk I was feeling better and figured I could tough it out to the end.  So with the energy I had left, I picked up my pace knowing that the end was near (and so was the shade.)  And, just like that, I was done.

    Thank.....GOD!

Photo Credit: Coach Suzanne

     It was over.  I was beat, but I was happy.  So was everyone else.  There were plenty of high fives to go around after that run.  There were also plenty of mimosas courtesy of our run coach Suzanne, and Coach Betsy brought us Easter Candy.  (They do say you should be sure to get enough protein back in your body within 45 minutes after you work out.  Peanut butter has protein.  Reece's Easter Eggs have peanut butter.  'Nuff said.)  We earned every bit of every treat that day, including those milkshakes.  Come May 7th, we'll earn those finisher medals.

     Let the tapering begin.

     Until next time, keep on running Pittsburgh.

     Sinceriously,

     Chuck Hull,      The Running Jedi


PS - There is still time to donate to the Mario Lemieux foundation.  Only $45 away from the half way mark, and only $1295 from the over all goal for our fourth and final charity run.  Once $2500 is raised, I'll be able to raffle off a signed Mario Lemieux Jersey.

https://www.crowdrise.com/MarioLemieuxPitt2017/fundraiser/chuckhull

I'm pretty tired, yet getting excited

Coach Suzanne's group from last year's preview run.  All of our
goals have been met in 2016, and we are all still working
on 2017.

     Last year at this time, we had tackled the Marathon Course preview run.   It just so happened that is was also at this time last year where I had broken out into a really bad case of hives all over my legs.  I had to take two weeks off from running after that incident, but I still somehow managed to push through 22 miles that day.  Tomorrow, we are gearing up for the same run.   I do not have hives this go round (thankfully) but I am a little tired.   And yet, even so, I can't wait for tomorrow.

     The last few weeks, I've felt really good.  Heck, I've actually felt really great.   There were a few weeks where things just didn't seem to be going well.   My legs have felt really heavy, and it took everything in me to just keep running.   I never gave up, though.  I powered through everything and I just kept running.  I only stop when the job is done.  But, the last few weeks, something had changed.  I wasn't quite sure what, but after some thinking I may have finally figured out what works for me.

Liberty Avenue, brutal but it can be done.
Photo Credit Coach Suzanne

     One thing I've learned the last few years is that you always carb up before a long run.   I'll admit that I didn't always follow that as closely as I should have, and it probably showed.  This year I made sure to follow that regimen as much as possible and being Catholic no meat on Friday's during lent makes it a little easier.  I've made sure to have some nice spaghetti dinners at home, and even a late night bowl of cereal.  As full as I made myself (not overly stuffed, however) I still managed to not be able to sleep all that well.  I've gotten an average of 6 hours of sleep, but I usually wake up once or twice and still manage to wake up way too early before the start of a training run.   Since I couldn't sleep, I figured I might as well eat some breakfast.

     I'm really bad at breakfast before a training run.   I'll usually eat a banana and granola bar, or just a banana before a run, figuring I'd be fine.  I can tell now that I wasn't.  I needed that extra boost in the morning.  What I was doing wasn't really cutting it, nor was it helping me at all.  Now eating an egg sandwich and some potatoes, or something similar was what I've been missing.  I've felt energized.  I've actually felt awake.  It's definitely showed.

Photo Credit: Coach Suzanne

     This past weekend was no different.  Up earlier that I wanted to be, I made myself a nice breakfast and headed down to the Waterfront ready to tackle 19 miles throughout the city.  The run started along the trail, into the South Side, then Oakland, etc.   We tackled a a  ton of hills (despite all of our moans and groans) and even spotted a Bald Eagle up in the trees along the trail.  The sun was shining; the temperatures were perfect.  Everyone was smiling.  You just can't beat that for a training run.

Photo Credit: Coach Suzanne

     I feel like I keep repeating myself when I've said that the last few weeks just seemed to go really well.  But, it's so much more than that.  I didn't want to stop after I finished what I set out to do.  I've felt that I had it in me to keep on going, and if the marathon were on any one of those given days, I could have crossed the finish line.

     The Marathon is only a few weeks away.  Tomorrow is the course preview run.  I've logged in 468 miles of training so far, with 22 to be added tomorrow.  I'm starting to get really pumped about this race.  Sure I'm pretty tired, but it's totally worth it.

Until next time, keep on running Pittsburgh.

Sinceriously,

Chuck Hull,   The Running Jedi

Worst attempt at Jazz Hands ever.....

PS:  There is still time to donate to a good cause!

The Mario Lemieux Foundation for Chuck Hull:

https://www.crowdrise.com/MarioLemieuxPitt2017/fundraiser/chuckhull

Team Red White And Blue for Stephanie Haas:

https://www.crowdrise.com/TeamRWBPitt2017/fundraiser/stephaniehaas

Like James Brown, I Feel Good

The Brave American Classic in Sewickley

     The last few weeks have been a little rough.  My long runs have not gone as well as I planned.  A few weeks ago, I ran the "Brave American Classic" in Sewickley (10k option.)  It's a nice, smaller race, and some use it to kick off their race season.   I had 15 miles scheduled for training that day, and decided to try something different.  I figured I could run from my house to the starting line, run the race, and then run home.   It worked out mileage wise, but was it a good idea?  Seemed like it at the time.  It wasn't.

     Running to the starting line was great.  The sun was shining bright and reflected beautifully off the river, and the cold didn't seem to bother me at all.  Once I got to St. Stephens Church, I met up with my friends and listened to the guest speakers prior to race start.  I was able to rest for about 20 minutes before everyone headed to the starting line.  When it was time to run, I tried to remind myself that I was in training mode.  However, once they said "go" my brain said, "nope, time to race!"  I ran way harder than I should have.  I wasn't sprinting by any means, but I was still running harder than I should, and I was trying to convince myself to slow it down a bit.  56 minutes later, I crossed the finish line and had another 20 minute rest before I headed home.   That's when things started getting a little more difficult.  Around mile 12 all I could think about was being done.  I could feel a blister on my foot and my legs felt heavier than they normally do.  Everything at that point hurt and I was feeling it.  I'm not sure if the two long breaks or running the race itself was what affected me the most.  I've never broken up a run like that before, and I probably shouldn't have.  Even though I did what I was supposed to do that day, I was not happy with how things worked out.   I was exhausted.  Looking back, the way I tackled these 15 miles was one of my worst ideas.

Add caption

     The following weekend, was the weekend of Pittsburgh's Annual St. Patrick's Day parade, and I had 17 miles on my schedule.  I ran with the Steel City Road Runners for the first time since since the kick off run.  Coach Suzanne was leading us off in the 10 minute pace group and was her her normal energetic self.   It's always a bright spot to any run.  I don't know where she gets her energy that early.   If I'm scheduled to run at 8:30, I'm only getting out of bed at 7:30.  I'm still half asleep when I check in!

Amy Egan ready to finish as well

     It was a very cold morning at roughly 19 degrees, and the wind was another story.  It was brutal!   The force of the the wind gusts were enough to slow us down a little and boy could we feel it!  (In this case, we couldn't feel anything, mostly our faces.)  I swear there were times that when some of the group were talking (myself included) everyone sounded like Clark Griswold while out looking for the Griswold family Christmas tree.  "All part of the experience Russ!"

     Our run did take us down along the parade route and we got to see some of the participants lined up along Liberty Avenue.   Everyone in the parade waiting for it to start saw us running and cheered us along and there were plenty of green high fives to go around (but not one Guiness.)  It was my favorite part of the run.  But, again, my legs felt really heavy and over all I felt awful.  It just didn't feel like my best effort.  My face was numb; I was freezing; I had another blister on my foot.  For the second weekend in a row, I was not happy with how everything went.

Stephanie Haas creeping up on another runner

     This past weekend was a different story.   I had 19 miles on the training schedule, and signed up for the Montour Trail group run with the Steel City Road Runners.  I did this run last year and really enjoyed it, so taking on the trail again seemed like a good idea.  But of course, as luck would have it, mother nature decided to treat us to a quick snow storm on Friday evening.  The snow fell pretty quickly, and it covered everything.  I immediately thought the run may be cancelled as can happen due to weather events, but this is Pittsburgh and an inch of snow is practically nothing.  It's really just enough to make everything look pretty.  (Yes, I said pretty.)  I really hoped that the run would not be cancelled.  I wanted to run in the snow and the beauty that it can bring.  I know, I'm a freak and most people hate the winter and the snow, but I'm not one of those people.

Jeanann Haas crossing the finish line.

   
     We had a decent sized 10:00 minute pace group, led by Coach Suzanne once more.  Our path on the trail first led us towards Oakdale/Imperial approx. 4.5 miles up and then back to the start.  The snow wasn't even a factor as it had been beaten down pretty well by the group.  The rising temperatures were helping as well.  By the time we hit the turn around there was a noticeable difference on the trail.  Most of the snow was gone or it had turned to slush.  Things were looking pretty good.

     Through all my training last year, I learned that most of the gels and goos that runners ingest don't work for me.  They kill my stomach.  I pretty much stopped using them, however I didn't bring much of anything with me on this run.   My camelback had a leak and I was losing water at a steady rate.  All the groups runs will have water stops, and at times, gels and goos.  On Saturday, it was no different.  There were boxes of Honey Stinger goos at the water stop, and I decided I should take one around mile six.  I was worried about what it would do to my stomach but this box were packets of actual honey, which I love.  This may not have been a bad idea at all.

     At this point, we were 9 miles in and I had 10 to go.  I was feeling really good.  Since we were back at the starting point of the run, the group decided to go in the opposite direction on the trail for a change of scenery (towards the Robinson Mall and YMCA.)  The number of runners in our group had also changed as there were not as many as there were in the beginning.  The longer the miles, the less people you have to run with.  That's not really a bad thing as not everyone is on the same training schedule.  But, it does start to get a little less chatty and a bit increasingly quiet and lonely.  The next water stop was at our 11.5 mile mark so I grabbed another Honey Stinger, but held of on eating it.  I still felt really good and not tired at all, so I figured I would wait.  At mile 13.5 I lost the last two people running with me so I was on my own the rest of the way.  That's when It got really lonely.

Photo Credit: Coach Suzanne

   
     The trail wasn't as clean as the first direction we ran, so the work was a littler harder on the way back.  I could feel the difference in my stride, my steps, and overall movement of my body.  I could tell I was working harder.  Not only that, but the quiet was getting to me.  There was an active gun range nearby around mile 14 and at that particular point in time it sounded pretty deafening.  Part of me started thinking, "what if I get hit with a stray bullet?"  My mind was starting to get to me.  Here I was alone on the trail and even with my music playing all I could think about was what could go wrong.  Would I slip and pull a muscle?  Would I roll my ankle?  Would I just flop over?  At that point, it was time to stop with the negative and focus on the positive.

Photo Credit: Coach Suzanne

     I started to think of pretty much anything that would make me laugh or smile.   I thought about some of stupid things I've done or said in the past that I could look at now with a face palm and chuckle. I laughed at really bad wardrobe choices, and I laughed at really bad hair styles.  I smiled at the thought of finishing my second marathon, and even my third later in the year in Chicago.  I thought about all the fun I have with my girlfriend and her girls as well as their support.  I thought about my friends and family who've been with me since day once of these misadventures, and the continuance of them.  I thought about my fundraisers and the real reason for all of this training and for whom I run.  I can't let any of them down, now can I?  I though about my last blog post.  All of this seemed to help because before I knew it, mile 19 beeped on my Garmin, and I was done.  Not only that, but I felt really great!  Sure my legs were sore and tired, but not like they were the past two weekends.  If I had to go another 7 that day, I would have.  For the first time this training season, I felt that confident in myself and round two with the Pittsburgh Marathon.

Photo Credit: Coach Suzanne

Photo Credit: Coach Suzanne

     It really is like everyone has always told me.  Not every mile can be a good mile, and that's nothing to be ashamed of or disappointed by.  But, when you feel good, great even, you'll know it, and you'll feel like you can tackle anything that is thrown at you.   I know Saturday I felt that way, and come May 7th, I'll be damn sure I feel that way again.

Until next time, keep on running Pittsburgh.

Sinceriously,

Chuck Hull....The Running Jedi.

#runpgh #teamlemieux #pawasoverpittsburgh #lovetherun

Please remember you can donate to a great cause, and you have options to do so!

The Mario Lemieux Foundation (if we raise $2500, I'll raffle off another Signed Lemieux Jersey!  Only $1500 away!)

https://www.crowdrise.com/MarioLemieuxPitt2017/fundraiser/chuckhull

Photo Credit: Coach Suzanne, St. Patrick's Day Green Run

I'm Not The Same Man I Once Was

My license photos from 2009 (top left), 2013 (bottom left)
and 2017 (right)  The newest one looks like a very different person.

     It's been about a month since I last wrote anything.  March is upon us and we're roughly in the middle of our training.  It's been a busy month between work and training and every day life, but I wanted to put something together while it's fresh on my mind.

     I ran 18 miles as part of my training this past weekend.  The weather wasn't the best at the start of my run, but it did start to clear up, and the rest of the run went very well.  My girlfriend and I were able to run some of those miles together and it capped off a great workout for both of us.  We met in the middle of my schedule, and when she was done, I finished off what I needed to do.   I felt good.  She felt good.  Not a bad day at all.

     A few weeks back, I had 14 miles on my schedule, and I didn't feel quite that same way.  Things did not go as well as I had hoped or planned.  I ran in town along some of the marathon course and other sections of the city.   It was just me, my music, and the cold temps.  About 10 miles in I felt like I was out of gas and couldn't go on.  But, I knew I had to do so.  I'm too stubborn to just quit, no matter how bad I'm feeling.  I did get a text from Kim shortly there after and I replied to let her know what I was up to and how I felt.  I was just about exhausted.  Kim said not to worry because I "got this."  That little push from her always seems to flip a switch in my head and always seems to give me that extra boost I need to finish.  Even this past weekend her encouraging words kept me going.  I only had about a mile or two left and I heard the text notification on my phone.  I had it feeling it was Kim to give me that nudge, and finished strong. (It was, by the way.)

My 20 year high school reunion back in 2011.
Not setting fashion statements in this one.

     When I run, I do a lot of thinking, a lot of inner reflection (especially on the longer runs.)  Last year when I was at this point, I wasn't sure I could do it.  Before every long run, I was terrified of what I was setting out to do.   That is where a support system comes into play.  I was able to complete every mile and reach every goal.  However, even this year, I still struggle because for me, it doesn't seem to get easier.  Should it?  You'd think so, but should it get easier?  I ask myself that question a lot.  In my head I'm also asking "why are you doing this?  What makes you think you can do this?  Who are you?  You can't handle this." And, that's just it.  I can. I have.  That's because I'm not the man I once was.

     About a month ago, I pulled out an old hard drive that I used to use for DJing.   There are pictures stored on there from as far back as 2007 and older.  I've saved almost every pictures from over 10 years ago.   I started looking through some of them and I kept thinking to myself, "who is this guy?  This isn't me."  I'll be honest; I looked at every single one.  It sort of bummed me out.  Each one I clicked through I started to feel a little ashamed of my self.   I can't explain why.  I'm not really sure if there is an explanation.  It made me wonder what I've been doing for the past 10 years, the past 20.

Cleveland about 3 or so years ago,
still heavier than I wanted to be.

     I've always been the type of person that just wanted to entertain.  I wanted to be able to make everyone laugh and smile.  I never really took the time to do those things for myself, though.  I had so much running through my mind as I continued clicking.  They say a picture is worth a thousand words but I was finding it difficult to even come up with 10.  Sure there were a lot of great memories from family functions, concerts, and weddings, but there were also a lot of memories that I no longer wanted.  I may had been smiling, my smile didn't seem genuine, as least not now.  Was I truly happy back then?  Deep down I realize now that I wasn't, and I can admit that.  So with one last look I did something I didn't think I would ever do: I started to delete these pictures, these memories.  This was not how I wanted to remember myself.  I did the same on Facebook, even removing tags in a lot of shared photos.

     Flash forward again to 2013, when I ran my first half marathon.  I felt pretty good about it, and felt proud.  I smiled in way I never had before.  I never thought I would do something like that again (let alone run a full marathon) but as most runners can tell you once you cross the finish line you get an itch.  You get this little twinge on the back of your neck that screams for more.   But, I still didn't seem too focused, a least not just yet.

Stella's Christening in 2013, around 210

     As started out  and began running, not much had really changed.  I never adjusted some of my habits so I wasn't really making any progress.  In my mind I knew what I wanted, but I still sort of blew things off.  It took almost another full year to realize this when I was back up in weight.  I still wasn't the me I knew I could be.

    Now, they say that girls mature faster than boys, and that could very much well be the truth.  Why did it take so long for me to finally have things click?   I'll may never be able to answer that, but what I can tell you is that running helped save me from a lot of things,  Most of all it saved me from me.  I stopped doubting myself.  I stopped saying I can't and began saying I can.  I started to believe in me.  With that simple though everything began falling into place.  My priorities changed and so did my habits.  I dropped a lot of weight.  I became more focused.  I became more driven.

     Running has helped me gain a sort of clarity, a clarity that's eluded me for a long time.  It's helped me to see what's truly important and what really matters most.  I've been able to take a few steps forward in my career after always taking a few steps back (when I was always afraid to even move at all!)  It's helped me be a better a better friend, a better brother, and a better son.

2011 vs. 2016

     It may have taken a very long time to realize a lot of things but again I say I'm not the same man I once was, but I do like what I am now.  And,  what I am...is happy.


Until next time....keep on running Pittsburgh.

Sinceriously yours,


Chuck Hull......the Running Jedi.


#runpgh #lovetherun #teamlemieux #teampaws #pghmarathon



PS: Don't forget to donate to a worthy cause!!!!


The Mario Lemieux Foundation:

https://www.crowdrise.com/MarioLemieuxPitt2017/fundraiser/chuckhull

Paws Over Pittsburgh for Kimberly Jurica:

https://www.crowdrise.com/AnimalRescueLeaguePitt2017/fundraiser/kimberlyjurica


Let's help do some good in the world...and let's help others....be happy.