Track City USA did it again -- hosted an event filled T&F Oly Trials that put track back on the everyday mind. Even the weather in Eugene cooperated -- I don't think it rained once during the competition.
NBC on the other hand, left room for improvement. From funky, overweight announcers that ask lame questions of all athletes, just seconds after completing their event -- to late night airing that only the crazy fools on vacation can watch (unless the record it of course) -- so much for early runs.
But the athletes, what incredible performances! It was very tough not being in Eugene for the 10-day showdown. We hemmed and hawed, then finally decided with all our travels this year with the marathon expos and track races, we should stay at home and hold off on another road trip. But it wasn't until last Thursday, when we actually stopped talking about jumping in the car and driving up to Eugene.
Seeing all those people that I either competed against or a few that I trained with -- I wanted to there, track side yelling at the top of my lungs and watching them putting everything on the line to run the race of their life. Locally we had 10 athletes compete in the Trails. When you know someone on the line or in a field event, it amplifies the emotional intensity of the sport.
I was so excited to see Kara June in the finals. Kara and I workout on the track at the same crazy time (6:30 am, Wednesday mornings -- until we got injured). Kara got injured early this year (stress fracture in her foot). But she was smart about it, took time off, cross trained and timed her peak performance for Eugene! Not too often you can time a comeback (both physically and mentally) for the Oly Trails!
Then there's Jordan Hasay -- don't need to say much about her. With her success in the 1500 at 16 years old, all the media followed this starlight in Eugene. But to PR in the semis and then run a great race in the finals is amazing! I don't even think the 1500 is really her race, just wait until 2012 and watch out ladies, I bet she's pulls a Rupp and is on the team in the 5000.
So bottom line -- Watching the Oly Trials on TV made me even more motivated to get out there and get busy training for the next race. Cross Country season here we come.
This is the second week of starting up for XC -- still building up my mileage. Ankle is feeling better, still swells up after a longer race, and definitely put a lot of thought into foot placement when I run off-road. But at least I'm able to run again!
So for this week, here's the plan...
Mileage target: 30 - 35 (XC season mileage will be at 50 mpw)
Running: 5 days
Core work: Friday on the track
Pool: one day at lunch / deep water running
Yoga: Monday
Dog Hikes: four days / 3 mi each
Seems very reasonable. Pretty normal work week, no travel, no crazy-busy meeting days (yet anyways). I'll keep you posted.
Hope you all have a great week. Putting in the miles, enjoying the summer! Thank for taking the time to read this entry!
aero out!
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