Running Background:

I consider myself an advanced runner and I primarily run for stress relief. I decided to run a marathon because I have CML Leukemia. Running helps my liver function at a higher level so it can handle the chemotherapy treatments I take daily. Also, running is a great stress reliever.

Training:

I somewhat followed the training program for advanced runners on the Boston Marathon Web site. I run 85-95 miles per week which is higher than what they outline. As the race approached I followed the program more closely. I don't do as much speed work as they suggest, but I run more miles. I run by myself so speed running is tough.

The best advice training advice I received was to add easy days to the tough ones.

Race Day:

The 2007 Twin Cities Marathon was worse than expected. I came into the race in good shape. I don't think I was quite at my 2:54 marathon level of one year ago, but I was close. In April I ran a 3:03 in bad conditions, and I took it easy and ran a 3:05 at Grandma's on tired legs. I drank fluids along the course and prior to the race knowing it was hot. I believe the temperature was about 85 and humid.

I was moving at a 3:00 hour pace through around 18 miles. I noticed that my sweat was no longer salty which isn't great. By mile 23 I had stopped at the bathroom 3 times and was at about a 3:05 pace which still would have put me in the top hundred or close. My hamstring started to cramp and my left leg kept shooting out. I had a sick feeling stomach. For the next two miles, I continued to stagger along at about a 3:10 pace.

Two-thirds of a mile from the finish my calf, quads, and hamstring cramped and I dropped. An older guy watching the race stretched me out, I got up, and I fell back over because my right leg went. I finally got going and picked up speed. As I gunned for the finish line, I decided to back way off thinking if I cramped again I would go sliding across the tar. After crossing the line in 3:28.31 (my worst time by 15 minutes), I tipped over and cramped for 45 minutes in the medical tent with a warm body temp.

Recovery:

My recovery wasn't too bad. I started training almost right away. Because of the cramping, I hadn't exerted myself as much as normal. I tried to get extra sleep (tough with 3 kids).

Running Gear Recommendations:

	Nike Structure Running Shoes I trained in the oldest model of these shoes. Search on YourRun.com » Search on Amazon »
	Powerbar Power Gels I used these on my long runs. Search on YourRun.com » Search on Amazon »
	Body Glide It saves my skin on the long runs. I've found all of the interesting places that the skin takes a beating Search on YourRun.com » Search on Amazon »

Tips/Words of Encouragement:

Don't try to get ready on a 16 week plan unless you are all ready in fairly good shape. I trained for a whole year before my first race. If you are ready for that 1st race, I think you will continue to run marathons.

Plans to Run Another:

I ran the Las Vegas marathon a couple months after this race. Having races planned keeps me focused. For my next marathon, I'm going to start at a leisurely pace and accelerate as the race goes on.

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