Wetmore Trail Run

I was so proud of myself yesterday...for most of the run I kept up with the gazelles. It was a great run...until this mornings run. My legs were screaming at me to stop, my back hurt, and I had one of those pulled ass-muscles...I was a mess. Don't get me wrong I had a good time running...as long as I ran slow. Part of the group (Jamie, Matt, Marta, and Brett H.) ran an hour, it was tempting to run back with them but I needed some miles. LOOK EVERYONE JAMIE'S RUNNING FASTER THAN BRETT H.

Oh No Water Crossing......
"What in cornbread do we do now?"

The pack was Trail-cheetah, Bob Clark and Lindsey (and another fast guy I just met that day). The last time I ran Wetmore, was last year. I went out for an hour run and end up lost for 3 hours. Very easy to get turned around, run the wrong trail. The Pack would turn around and make sure I was OK. They didn't want me to get lost again, they know I had to get make to bake more PURE FUEL ENERGY BARS.
Thanks For not leaving me out there!!!! We were out for about 2 hours I'll count it as 12 miles for today.

Water Falls Trail Run

Nick Billock came up with a great trail run to wrap up 2007. The 17 mile 3 hour 15 minute trail run covered the BT Winter 1/2 Marathon Course, up to Blue Hen Falls then to Buttermilk Falls.
Here we all are bright eyed and bushy tail at 6:30am ready to run from Lock 29. There were a few of us who forget the sun doesn't come up for quit some time. This would include myself, I forgot my headlamp. The group split into two groups. We headed up to Pine Lane to start out the run, which was good for me, I've ran this trail in the dark a number of times. I stuck with Mel, she had a lamp and was running at a good pace for me.

I had to get the camera out for the water crossing just in case someone fell in.
Had to get some muddy shoe shots. we were all covered in mud.

Our first stop Brandy Wine Falls

(Nick B., Vince R., Stephen, Arron, Bret H., Mel, & Chef Bill)

Our second stop Blue Hen Falls

Mel turn back, and we pickup two more late arrivals

My camera is up on top of a cliff, I had to setup the timer and jump down and over huge rocks to get to the spot I'm in in 10 seconds. That's way I look blurry.

(Brandon, Stephen, Bret H., Nick B. Vince R, Arron, Mike, & Chef Bill)

What a great picture!!!!

Vince Rucci's favorite hill. It's the Bridal Trail next to the turnpike. This took us up to the Bridal Trail heading back to Pine Lane Parking Lot.

What a great way to retire a pair of shoes. Time for a new pair of shoes.

I wish everyone a Happy New Year

The Top Ten Reasons I Like Running Trails With Monet

FYI (MONET IN MY TRAIL RUNNING DOG, Shes an all black Miniature Schnauzer and loves to run. I'll post tonight's picture later.)

Tonight Monet & I ran Pine Lane to Boston Store then back on the towpath. I thought we would have some light but we ended up running in the dark. She spotted several deer but was very responsive when I shouted out commands to follow me and leave the deer alone. Very muddy trails tonight. My shoes were very heavy with mud.

10. She loves the mud.
9. She doesn't mind peeing in the woods.
8. She's a great listener.
7. We get to shower together after our run.
6. NO SHOES TO BUY!!!!
5. After 7-8 miles it makes for a calm & quit ride home.
4. She's always ready to run, not prep, no schedule issues.
3. She never whines or complains about the hills.
2. She loves Pine Lane.
1. She never quits.

Water Falls Trail Run

17-18 miles. Bring your party hats!!!!
We are going to party like rock-stars>>>>>

Water Falls Trail Run

Saturday December 29th

Special Addition of the Saturday Morning Group Run to close out 2007:Begin at Lock 29 at 6:30amHead up the "Brick Hill" to Pine LaneVia the Buckeye Trail to the Boston StoreLoop the Winter 50K Brandywine Falls LoopThen take the Buckeye Trail north to Blue Hen FallsNext we will head on the trail to Buttermilk FallsPop out behind Boston Mills Ski ResortTake Riverview Rd back to the Boston StoreFinish up the run by taking the Valley trail back to Pine Lane

Enjoy the downhill finish back to Lock 29Total Run Time = 2.5 to 3 Hours

MUDDY TRAILS

I chucked my training schedule out the window this week (Sorry Vince). My schedule had me running 50 miles with a 22 mile long run. With all I had going on this week I couldn't get it done. Not to fear I still ended up with 48 mile week.
Sat. was going to be a 6:30am run with Mr. Rucci then hook up at 7:30am to run with the Lock 29 group. I ended up snoozing the alarm to many times and got to lock 29 by 8am for a solo Pine Lane & Brandy Wine Loop run. 13 miles...The trails are muddy!!!

Sunday's AM run started at Boston Store to Ottawa. The Group (Cinda, Kirt O, Jim Chaney, Maria, Don, Melissa, The big bald guy, Debbie, and a few others). Brett was MIA.
It was around 51 degrees, rainy, very muddy, wet. I was the smart one...All were bundled up for a hike in the Arctic, I wore shorts and a long tech. I didn't think it was going to get cold just wet. everyone was shedding jackets left & right. Jim & I headed back from Snowville. 10 miles.

Soup On

It's cold out and what better way to warm your body after a run.
This recipe is from my favorite recipe website http://www.epicurious.com/
Red-lentil soup
Red lentils, faster-cooking than other varieties of the legume, are the foundation of this earthy, rustic soup. Light but satisfying, it's a wonderful (and easy) start to an autumn meal.
Makes 4 to 6 servings (makes 6 cups)

1 large onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1bay leaf
1 sprig fresh thyme
1 cup red lentils (7 ounces), picked over and rinsed
3 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
3 cups water2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley
Accompaniment: lemon wedges

Cook onion in oil with 1/2 teaspoon salt in a medium heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 8 minutes. Add garlic, cumin, bay leaf, and thyme and cook, stirring, 1 minute more. Add lentils, broth, water, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper and simmer, partially covered, stirring occasionally, until lentils are very soft and falling apart, about 30 to 45 minutes. Discard bay leaf and thyme sprig, then purée 2 cups of mixture in blender (use caution when blending hot liquids) and return to pan. Stir in parsley and season with salt.

BRRRRRR

24 degrees this morning.
While all of you where snoring, scratching and creating the goo that stick in the corner of your eyes; I was out running.
Up at 4am armed with my winter gear, a garmin, and PURE FUEL ORGANIC ENERGY BAR, APPLE-CINNAMON. I headed out towards Downtown Akron OH. My plan was to run to GOJO Plaza. My wife, Jen works in the Marketing dept. there. It's about 14 miles round trip. I say about because the 24 degrees wasn't nice to the garmin. I think it got to cold and shut down. I got right back into the groove, the only thing I noticed was my legs ached at the end of the run. Other than that I was fine.
Sidewalks were very icy streets were OK but had some patches of black ice.
Monday was a 5 mile run around Silver Lake, then a 6 mile run in the neighborhood on Wednesday Night.
I'm back on track with my training schedule. Next week Jen will be home so I can run during the day on trails.

50K Training

My training has slowed down this week because of a busy work & family week. My 50K training plan was to run ALL trails NO PAVEMENT!!! This plan isn't working. My new plan will start Monday 12/11. For my weekday runs I'm going to start at 5am and run from home. Some days pavement and some days I'll run to Glens/High-bridge/Gorge trails.
Saturday long runs I'll head back to BT50K training grounds.

Training this time of year gets challenging. Not because of the cold, snow, or ice. The holidays!! Running around doing cheery joyfully stuff. That's why I want to running in the morning. I can get it out of the way.

I did get my new camera but I've been afraid to take it out in the cold. Once I get a pouch to keep it warm I'll get it out.

PURE FUEL ORGANIC ENERGY BARS

Pure Fuel Organic Energy Bar website is ready

http://www.purefuelenergy.com/

Order on line or

at

Downtown Hudson OH

Choice from 5 great flavors

The Blue Blaze (blueberry)

named for our stomping grounds, Buckeye Trail

Carob- Peanut Butter

Oatmeal Peanut Butter

Cranberry-Orange

Apple Cinnamon

New products in development:

Chocolate Chip, Chocolate, Fuel Cell Bites, Banana-Vanilla Fuel Recovery

Press Release
Revere Middle School Health Safety and Welfare- PTA Event
Date of event: December 14th, 2007-

In an effort to promote increased fruit and vegetable consumption amongst young people,
The Revere Middle School PTA presents: “Iron Chef Revere – Healthy Cook Off”
to all 750 Middle school students on December 14th.

The Battle will begin at 10:50am at Revere Middle School.
The Chefs: Principal, Frank Surace and Chef Bill Bailey of Playing With Knives And Fire.

Their mission: To create a vegetable dish, that is good for you and tastes great!

All 750 students will be encouraged to taste the entrees and vote for the dish they like best!
The winner will be .... The first.... IRON CHEF REVERE!

We are grateful for Mr. Suraces support and enthusiastic participation.
We are indebted to Chef Bill Bailey and his efforts to make this event exciting and close to the
“authentic Iron Chef ” programs. Chef Bailey's skills as a chef for over 20 years and education
in nutrition , hospitality management and “serve safe certification” will help us efficiently
prepare large quantities of food in a safe and efficient manner.

Let The Battle Begin !

Chef Bill Bailey Frank Surace
Owner: Principle:
Playing With Knives And Fire Revere Middle School

One Month + One Day

It's been a month & a day since my last blog, and boy has MR. KELLER let me know. Just small little reminders, "Did you read my blog?" "Josh has got a great race report." "Why do you need a camera, you don't blog anymore?"

Well just for that... "Mike (Mr Keller) want to run at 5:45am Thurs?" Bring your camera I don't have one.

OK enough razzing Mike...I'm still running; this passed week was only 20 miles, because of the Holiday, and getting our new website up www.purefuelenergy.com
My average mileage has been 35-40. I'm training for the Winter BT50K Jan. 26, 2007. The last two Saturday morning runs have been the 13 mile loop of the 50K. It's 8 miles of Pine lane and 5 miles of Brandy Wine Falls loop.
This week coming up Nov. 26-Dec. 2 will be a 44 mile week.
I did buy a new camera but I have to return it. It only took two pictures before the battery died. I'll get a new one before Saturday.
I'll try to blog more. I've just been really busy.

Blog Slacker II

I figure I'd better find some time to sit and write a blog before they shut me down.

I took a little time off after Akron. I ran a day or two the week after the Marathon, then I was busy with work & family. I also wanted to plan my up coming races and figure out if I can truly training for a 50 miler and stay married.

The 50 miler is still up in the air but I am running Home Run For The Homeless, Winter BT50K, Cleveland Marathon 2008, Michigan Trail Marathon 2008.
I got a training schedule fro VR Training so I can get back into a groove. I've been hitting the trails Pine Lane, Happy Days, The Metro Park Gorge by my house.

So I'm back on track with a five day a week running schedule 40 to 46 miles a week, then up to 50 to 55 towards my peak mileage.
I'm looking forward to running with Mike Keller(fitfromfat) sometime next week.
We are going to plan our two annual Indian Run. This your your invited and we will run during the day.
Our Night Crawler group will get back together soon I think we will run on Tuesday Night 9:00pm 8-10 miles Trails.
We are still working on the PURE FUEL Energy Bar. The Web Site should be up and running by the end of the month. I'm working on new bar favors and a trail mix to add to the line.
YOU CAN FIND PURE FUEL At Vertical Runner In Hudson or email me and I'll send you some.
That's it for now I'll blog sooner this time I promise.

Akron Road Runner Marathon 2007

What a great day for runners; cool crisp morning followed by sunny day. My plan for the marathon was to run with the 4 hour pace group. I got to the start at 5:45am to get motivated, a parking spot near the stadium and first in line at a pot-o-potty. I mingled around talking to other runners, then I saw this guy speed walking to get something from the relay table. I reached over and socked him in the arm...He asked, "Hey!!!Do I Know You!?" "Jeff It's me Bill Bailey!" "Remember we worked together 15 years ago!!!" We chatted for a minute then he had to get going. I go a phone number to so I could call him later.
Mike Keller & I talked about running together with the 4 hour group....but there was a catch...We were not going to talk to each other during the race, so we wouldn't waste energy and focus on running.
(click on mike's name and read his blog).
We were off and running in no time. I started to stick with the pacer then I moved up to run with Mike, who was ahead by a little. Then I would move back to the pacer, thinking I was running to fast...I was confused!!! So I got into my own grove and ran my race with the same thoughts I had at the BT50K. I need to use it or loose it. Use the energy I had to keep myself going or loose it by running to slow. I got through the Y-Bridge, Firestone Park & Akron U on my own. Once I hit the towpath I was at a good pace and caught up with the Canal River Rats. They are a group of West Akron Guys who run the towpath & Sand Run. Who better to run with at this point of the race. I was 3-4 minutes a head of the 4 hour group. A nice cushion to have because of the "HILL" that was coming up. The Rats were great. They got me through Sand Run. I started to slow down a tad in the West Akron area near Firestone High School. I sucked down some Gu's. It got a little warm,but I was well hydrated. I stopped at every water stop. I took 20 seconds to drink and walk, then off and running again. Right before the HILL I looked to my side and there was a girl with a 4:15 pace on her back and next to her was a pacer. I freaked out. I was thinking I lost some time and was at a 4:15 pace. But the pacer was the 4 hour guy. Our pacer was awesome; I stayed with him up the HILL into Stan Hywet. Once we got to Portage I sucked down two GU's. I asked the pacer if we would continue this pace he said yes.
My thoughts were I got 4 hoursbeat!, but can I get sub 4? Let's see what Market Street brings me. My plan for Market Street is to let the street carry me to Main Street. Market Street has a nice long hill. "Gravity do your job."
I'm still with the pacer on Portage and as we come around to get to Market I make my move. Not all at once but I slowly move ahead, my music blasting, but I can hear the crowd, I can see Main Street then I look over and see Vince in his car (Stuck in traffic) He's cheering me on, I flash him the VR Peace Sign & a number 4 sign. Seeing Vince gave me more motivation to move ahead at a faster pace. I got to the bottom of Market and remember the little incline that was waiting for me right before Main Street. I slowed down to get up the hill, then running down Main Street my leg started to cramp. I slowed a little then seeing the crowd and having the stadium in sight I had to run through the pain. Run Bill Run....I'm focused on my time, I'm passing a bunch of pink relay tags, I almost knocked some lady over. I kept repeating SUB 4....SUB 4....SUB 4
Chip Time 3:57:47

Blog Slacker

Sorry I've been such a blog slacker lately. I've been really busy creating, buying ingredients, mixing and baking a new energy bar called PURE FUEL. I've also been busy training for the Akron Marathon, Sunday Brunch at our Church and two up coming catering gigs I have planned for next week. Then there are those little people, Tori & Collin, that take up space in my home. I have to make sure they eat sleep & fight without killing each other or flushing things down the toilet that shouldn't be flushed.
I will soon be back on track to blogging and soon I will get a new camera to get me motivated to blog more.

In Memeory of Sara

In memeory of my dog

Sara

Dec. 3 1998

Sept. 22, 2007

Sara's the Black & Sliver Schnauzer

Monet is the all Black Schauzer

5:30 AM Run

This morning Nick & I met in the Valley and ran the towpath. I called Nick and told him I wanted to be "The Fastest Man In The World" again. Nick's job was to pace me at a fast speed. Our workout; the first mile was our warm up, then 4 miles at 7.30 pace then a mile cool down. Our plan looked better on paper. We start our warm up to fast. We did hit some 7.0 min/miles for some of our laps. Our final time was 8:33 min./mile for 6 miles. Still very good pace for me at flippin 5:30 am.
Thanks for the run Nick see you later.

Bark At The Moon

Just wanted to post this note.....

One of my trail buddy's, 9 year old Sara (she's on the right in the picture), has been at the Vet's office since Monday morning. Thursday night she got sick, and the last day she ate anything was Friday at breakfast. They have her on IV fluids for now and are trying to get her to eat.

I don't want to go into all the vet and medical problems, but she' really sick and I'm hope she can come home soon to run Pine Lane with me & Monet (she's on the left in the picture).

FOR SALE

This morning I had to kill two birds with one stone. I needed to drive my car to an empty lot near Silver Lake. I'm selling my Honda so Rt. 59 is a great busy road to try and sell a car. I also had to get a few miles in today. So I drive the car the the lot and started to run. I could repeat my pace from Monday Night, but I kept a 9.26 min./mile for 3.6 miles. I'll get out later tonight to run another 3 miles.

THE FASTEST MAN IN THE WORLD!!!!

Monday Night 9/17/2007
Tonight I was the fastest man in the world!!!!
OK maybe not the fastest. The plan was to run 5-6 miles with Vince at his house(no trails until after Akron Marathon). Once there one of the gazelles (Arron) from the Sat. AM group run shows up. My thoughts..."Great I'll be running alone." Then I thought I try to keep up with them and see how far I get. I know the neighborhood so it doesn't matter if they loose me I'm just without and ipod.
The first mile I know I would be bailing out a 3 miles. But what really happened was I stuck with them.
I felt really good, no pain, no stomach issues, I drank(water) all day. I was right with them. I wish I would have brought my Garmin. Vince said I would have my PR for my 5k, 4 mile & 5 mile runs. At the end Arron was pushing & coaching me a long. I was determined to stick with them all the way. Vince's Street has a nice down hill run. I started to fad but thought I would run my hardest back to his house. I thought for sure I was gazelle material, and I was for a few seconds...then they reminded me why I call them gazelles to begin with. The hammer came down and they were strides ahead of me.
Vince said we were sub 7 min./mile coming down his street and avg. 7.3-8 min./mile for the run.
THANKS GUYS GREAT RUN, I NEEDED THAT....

running with knives & fire

Sat. 9/15/2007
Group run our last long run before the marathon. It looked like about 15-20 people running with us. I stuck with Melissa & her Dad John. I wore my garmin, I thought for sure it would stop working. Our route today was North on the towpath then loop carriage trail and back. 14 total miles. The garmin kept a signal the whole time. Our avg. pace was 9.30 minute/mile.

SOUZOUKAKIA (meatballs in wine sauce)

Akron's Greek Festival is coming up soon. I thought I would share one of my favorite Classic Greek dishes with you.

Chef Bill Bailey version of
Souzoukakia (Meatballs in Wine Sauce)
1 1/2 pounds ground meat (ground twice)
4 slices white bread, crust trimmed
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 cup dry red wine
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 egg
2 8-ounce cans tomato sauce
1 cup water
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying
Soak bread in cold water and squeeze out the excess.
In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the meat, bread, garlic, cumin, onion powder, wine and egg by hand.
Shape into long meatballs (football shape), about 3 inches in length.
In a deep pot, add tomato sauce, water, salt and pepper. On medium heat, bring sauce to a gentle boil. Reduce heat.
In a large frying pan, heat enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Fry meatballs until brown on all sides. Remove from pan with a slotted spoon and place meatballs in the tomato sauce. Simmer until sauce looks thickened and meatballs are completely cooked.
Serves 6.
Note: Souzoukakia are typically served over long-grain white rice in Greek homes, but they can be also served on a hard roll with a little sauce.

Akron Marathon Training 2007

I'm still getting behind on my blogging. I'll see if I can get some time back in the computer room...I need a laptop that would make things easy. I think Santa reads my blog :)

Monday I ran with Hob-a-long Rucci. He was hobbling on sore legs from his 50K he ran on Sat. We ran a 5 mile loop around Silver Lake.

Tuesday I met Vince & Mike "the mailman" for an 8 mile run in Sand Run. Boy was it crowded. All the parking spaces were full. I said to Vince "what are all these ya-hoo's doing out here training for a marathon?" "Where are the all in January when were out training for BT50K?"
The Ya-Hoo's were all on the parkway path and we hit the trails.

Thursday AM I met Nick to run a 10 mile there & back route on the blue line from Sand run up to the west Akron neighborhood we will be running in the Marathon. I had some problems with my hip & IT. I got it stretched out after getting home seems to be OK.

Today I ran a 6 mile neighborhood run down around Mike (fitfromfat) & Tony's house.

FYI: Akron Life & Leisure write an article about VR Trainings running group. It's in the Sept. 2007 issue. There's a great picture of the group run and A few of us have some quotes. Pick up a copy or just read one while sipping a cup of joe at boarders book store.

Sat. will be a 14 mile long run with the group.

BLOG BLOG BLOG

I'm still training, I'm still cooking, I'm still PIC (Parent In Charge)!!!
I've been very busy. I haven't have any time to blog...as you can see. I wanted to take a few minutes to say I ran the buckeye half today 1:54:46. My PR is 1:52. Not a good day. It was rainy, I was tired...I could go on and on with other excesses but I'll stop there.

I've been working on a project some of you know about; I've been testing an energy bar calling PŪR Fuel. They were featured at the Buckeye 1/2 today and were a big hit. I got a lot of feedback and great commits. If you missed them today or want to buy more, you can purchase them at Vertical Runner. I'll post more about them later. I'm still working on some of the details and fine tuning. I can tell you they are delicious!!!

I'm still training for Akron...I am going to try to run just under 4 hours.
I'm also going to post more recipes for you on this blog and on my website www.playingwithknivesandfire.com.

Chef Bill Bailey's Recipe

Chicken Stir-Fry with Noodles
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 teaspoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon ground Szechwan pepper
Wide rice-stick noodles
1 teaspoon sesame oil 2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon minced gingerroot
1/4 cup sliced thinly green onions
3/4 cup chicken stock
2 tablespoon sherry
3 tablespoons soy sauce, or more to taste
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
3 tablespoons peanut or vegetable oil
1/2 cup chopped yellow onions
1 carrot, thinly sliced
1/2 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 small zucchini, cut in
1/2 lengthwise then into 1-inch pieces
1 stalk celery, cut into 1/2-inch slices
1 bunch baby bok choy, bottoms trimmed, rinsed well, and cut on the diagonal
3 ounces shiitake or button mushrooms, thinly sliced
1/2 cup mung bean sprouts
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
In a bowl, toss the chicken with the sugar, red pepper flakes, and Szechwan pepper. Let sit.
To make the rice noodles, place 1/4 pound of rice stick noodles in a bowl, cover with boiling water and let stand until softened. Drain, cover, and set aside until ready to serve.
To make the seasoning blend, in a blender or small food processor, combine the sesame oil, garlic cloves, ginger, and 2 tablespoons of the green onions, and puree on high speed.
To make the cooking sauce, in a small bowl, combine the chicken stock, soy and hoisin sauces. In another small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in the sherry. Set aside.
Heat 2 tablespoons of the peanut oil to smoking in a wok or very large skillet over high heat. Add the pureed seasoning blend and cook for 15 seconds. Add chicken and stir-fry until mostly opaque, but not cooked through all the way, about 2 minutes. Remove to a plate. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil, then the onions, carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, and celery, and cook, stir-frying for 30 seconds. Add the bok choy and mushrooms and cook for 1 minute. Add the reserved cooking sauce and return the chicken to the wok. Stir and toss until the sauce glazes the food and the chicken is cooked through, about 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Return to the heat and return to a boil. Cook, stirring, until thickened, about 1 minute.
Remove from the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of green onions, and cilantro. Adjust seasoning to taste, with additional soy sauce, if desired.
Serve immediately over blanched rice noodles.

To the Bridge And Back

First I want to clarify sometime from Monday's blog before I get tons of negative emails. Savannah Georgia Hogs are very lean hogs, but the are very sweaty.
OK that's out of the way...Up at 4am to run solo. Today I was armed with a 201 Garmin. I'm trying to see if I can improve my pace if I use the Garmin. Today's "to the bridge & back" was 9.28 miles and my avg. pace was 10 min. miles. I don't think the Garmin help very much today. I did pick up the pace on a few spots but then the hilly section were a little slow. I'll have to test it on some other runs to see if I can increase my pace.

No Night Crawlers tonight (my wife has a meeting) I'm PIC "Parent In Charge"
I would like to run Thursday Aug. 23, 2007 at 9pm at Happy Days Anyone who wants to run with me email me at chefbill@playingwithknivesandfire.com

Monday AM 8 mile Loop

Rain Rain Rain...
We got to sleep in today, we met at 5:30am instead of 5am.
I thought it would be one of those rainy runs. I checked Dick's Doppler before leaving the house. It showed a little bit of a break in rain showers, but once I got to Canal Park Stadium we had a nice steady drizzle. Nick & Brett wore their Seattle style rain parkas, I was going to wear my Long Sleeve Vertical Runner Tech-T, but I opted for my short sleeve tech. 3 miles in I had 2 sweaty Savannah Georgia hogs squealing about how hot it was in Akron Ohio. After shedding the layers my two southern friends were comfortable enough to run at a decent pace. Nick just ran the Perfect 10 Miler on Sunday so this was his recovery run. Brett just got back from vacation on Sunday.
We ran the same 8 mile loop as last Monday. In the Marathon it's mile 3 through 11ish. We got to run through the beautiful Firestone Park Neighborhood. ( Hey anyone know why there's a scuba diving store in the middle of the city? It's on Brown St. & Stanton Ave. No where near any water.) We also ran through part of the wonderful University Of Akron Campus. Once we got to main st. I kicked it into high gear. I told Nick there are two spots on the Akron Course I want to beat. 1. I'm going to fly down Market Street Hill. This is Mile 24 in Highland Square. 2. I'm going to continue the pace down Main St into the stadium. On Main street I will still have to run about 1/2 mile before I get to the stadium. Last year I had to run these two sections really easy. Not this year. This is a section I will pick up lost time.

Akron Road Runner Marathon Training

Sat. Aug. 18, 2007
Today I ran with Melissa & her dad. We planned an Akron Marathon training run on the 18 mile loop. We met at 9am downtown Akron at Canal Park. I revised the map from last week. Route Permalink: http://www.runningmap.com?id=21382
If you run into Stan Hywet(not on the map) around the driveway it's close to 18 miles. We stopped for water along the way (Sand Run). I didn't stash any water. We could have used some at Firestone High School.
We finished 3:06 hours. We ran a slower pace, Melissa's dad had some physical training on his knee a few months again and his last long run was only 12 miles. He planned only to run 15 miles and walk the remaining 3 miles, but we in courage him to move on and run the rest of the way in. Melissa left us in the dust on Market street she took off to show us how fast she wants to run in the marathon. I in with Melissa's dad. Great run not to hot temp was around 70's.

Dawn Crawling Run

Friday Aug. 17, 2007
I know I don't have to ask the question but I will any way...Have you ever have a morning, you plan an early run, your alarm is screaming at your eye lids to get up. Your thinking... "Do I really need to run today? "I could run longer tomorrow...wait I'm already planning a 18 mile run...that won't work." Maybe I'll feel like running when I get my shoes on..."After I run another mile I'll feel better". My Morning was Crap!!! I planned to run 8 miles, my pace was 9-10 min./miles. I was tired. After running about 3 miles I know I wouldn't feel any different if I kept going. Instead I ran my 5 mile neighborhood loop. I crawled back to the house and flopped on the couch. I do have to give myself a little credit; I did get out of bed, I did put my shoes on and I did run.

Night Crawlers

Wed. Aug. 15, 2007
We're at it again Wednesday Night Night Crawlers....
If you've been following my blog you know the story, if your new to reading my blog here's the scoop...it started with Nick, Brett, Melissa and myself. We all have busy family lives and were trying to come up with a creative way to run & enjoy our time with our families without the nagging running commits from the spouse. We started a late night trail run that meets at 9:00pm (after the kids are put to bed). We usually meet at Lock 29 and run for about 1 1/2 hours.
Tonight's Night Crawlers were Chef Bill (ME), Melissa & Beth. Nick is in road running mode...He is training for the Akron Marathon and is focused on road running, no trails until after the marathon. Brett is sweating his butt off in South Carolina...On Vacation. Our evening started with a dome light problem in Beth's truck. After closing the door the dome light stayed on. I had to jimmy the switch to turn off the light. When Melissa arrived she was cursing her father for cleaning out her car and misplacing her headlamp. 3 runners two headlamps, no problem we've accomplished this before (RIGHT NICK!! Nick forgot his lamp on a previous night run.)
We ran our familiar 8 mile Pine Lane Loop. No watch, no GPS, just the moon and some freaking thing moving in the woods that scared the crap out of me. I couldn't see what is was but it sounded big and flappy, it must of had wings. This is something I'll never get use too. Things moving in the night. I've had bats fly into my lamp, deer peering at me with their illuminating eyes. I'm still waiting for the guy with an axe & a six pack of Bud Light. Now that I've planted the seed; I'll be looking for a guy or girl with an axe, maybe one beer or better yet, a New Balance water bottle, wearing a pair of Montrails and a Vertical Runner Tech-T.
Beth's training for her first 50 miler in Michigan. Her goal tonight was to blaze up all the hills we encountered. Melissa is training for the Akron Marathon.
My guess is we ran our 1 1/2 hours and we covered our 8 miles. Look for more up coming Night Crawler Trail Runs if you want to join us e-mail me chefbill@playingwithknivesandfire.com

Follow The Bule Line II

Monday Aug. 13, 2007

It's 4am again...I'm getting up to run "THE BLUE LINE II".

I met Coach Nick at Canal Park to run our 8 mile Akron Marathon Loop. This section take you South on Broadway St. into South Akron and Firestone Park then back up to Akron U to finish of the loop. Nick had this great idea to use this route for a tempo run. I agreed, but wasn't sure if I could run a tempo this morning. Armed with his trusty Garmin we headed out at a good pace. I told Nick I will run this pace until my body tells me to slow down. Nick wore his reflector vest, good thing the Akron drives this morning were ruthless. We had to run some sidewalks. We kept checking our pace & time with the Garmin. I felt great. When I felt like I slowed down I check our pace with the Garmin then pickup my pace to kept on track. I had the same feeling when running the BUCKEYE 50K. I need to get one of these GPS gadgets. I defiantly think my solo runs would get better and not to mention I would understand my track outs.

We ran 1:11 avg. 8.38 min. mile pace. Now if I can do this in the marathon I'll be set for my sub 4 hour Marathon!!!!

This is a great mid-week training run, if you can get yourself up and your shoes on you've defeated the hardest part of an early morning run.

We well plan to run this loop again next week, if you would like to join us email me chefbill@playingwithknivesandfire.com

Follow The Bule Line

Sat. Aug. 11,2007
I had one of those chaotic days where I had to be at several places through out the day. I had to run with the group in the morning, buy a van, set up & teach a cooking class and have a fun filled evening at Stan Hywet for a Shakespeare play with my wife and some friends.

The VR Training Group had a 16 mile run on the Akron Marathon course. We met at Canal Park, the finish line for the Marathon. I arrived early to place water throughout the course and to checkout the parking lot. We had great parking, right across from the stadium. About 30 runners(maybe more) turnout. Most of the VR Training Group, and some runners joined us to familiarize themselves with the Akron Course.
I was responsible for mapping out the course. I used www.runningmap.com . Because of mapping and operator errors I made the course 1.5 miles longer. oops!!!! Everyone made it back OK. No punches were swung at me. Next time I'll have the map edited before we post it. I was on a schedule to get to the bank to buy my new catering van, so I had to run real fast. Well that was my plan. I made the opening announcements to the group (where we were running, where I place the water, bathrooms, etc.). Our course covered miles 1 and 2, over the Y-Bridge and 11 through 26.2. I wanted everyone to see the starting line, which was fading (they will re-paint the line before the race) and the finishing leg, running down Main Street to the stadium. The course has a blue line running throughout the route, so once we got started it was easy to have everyone follow the course without getting lost.
I started to run with the Gazelles, they were avg. a 8.0 min./mile. Once we hit the towpath (Mustill Store) I lost them, or I should say, they lost me. I ran the towpath alone, then once I got to Sand Run I started to run with the second pack, Marta, Nick, Mark, Steve. Sand Run is a great place to train for this marathon. This is mile 16 and it can get ugly if you don't know the course. this section is a gradual incline. Once you think your up the hill, there's another hill.
I mainly ran with Marta. She's training for Akron, The Marine Corp. and New York Marathons.
Because of the added mileage, we didn't run Stan Hywet. It's just a little u-turn up the driveway to the mansion then back to Portage Path. Highland Square is mile 24 in the marathon. It's a nice down hill run that you can make up a lot of time, but be careful, from the corner of Market & Main Street it's still 1/2 mile to the stadium. Don't forget to run into the stadium to the finish line.
My time was 2:56 for the 17.5 mile. I would like to see if I could run the marathon in 4 hours(or less). I will be training on this section again. I have the course mapped out correctly next time. They will be 14-16 miles and maybe one 20 mile. I'll post the time & dates soon.

Follow The Bule Line

Akron Marathon Course Familiarization Run

This Saturday, August 11th we will be running 16-17 miles on the Akron Marathon Course
We will meet at Canal Park and the group run will begin at 6:30am
Water will be available along the course, but with the recent humidity and heat we have had it is suggested that you still carry your own nutrition and hydration needs
For more information on this group run visit the Vertical Runner Message Board: http://verticalrunner.com/

Thurs. AM Run With Nick

Rolled out of bed at 4am to get set for my AM run with Nick. We are running portions of the Akron Marathon. This week starting at Merriman Rd. & Portage Path (15 mile marker) heading south on the towpath. The Marathon Course will travel north on this portion of the towpath.
Nick wasn't comfortable running in the lighting, he headed into PR fitness to run on the treadmill. I headed out onto the towpath. It was dark, rainy and I didn't bring a lamp. My eye soon adjusted to darkness and the sun was on it's way up.
Well this was boring...it's dark, I'm on the towpath, no music, no killer maniacs to run from, no one to talk or make fun of. the only excitement was the lighting in the distance. my plan was to run to Mustill Store and turn back, this would have been 8 miles. I got to Memorial Parkway (3 miles out) then turn around. I thought I'd just do 6 miles. Heading back I noticed a bouncing light; familiar to the ones that were floating down Front Street towards the BR100 Finish Line. At first I thought it must be a BR100 racer on his 144th hour. It was Nick he changed his mind, well PR fitness wanted $15.95 to run a treadmill. I headed back out with Nick so head could get in his 8 miles. The rain stopped the lighting show ended, now I have someone to made fun of...Thanks Nick.

Wed. Evening Trail Run

Wed. Aug. 8, 2007

I ended Monday's blog with "Dog Tired" I stayed dog tired until Wed. morning. I couldn't moved Tuesday. My weekend finally could up to me. Tuesday was a much needed recovery day.

Wed. I met Vince & Beth at Boston Store for a Beth's trail training run. I wanted to see how my older trail shoes felt with my new inserts. They were OK for a short run, but I don't think I should use them on a long trail run. I'll need to get new shoes soon. (Shhh...Don't let Jen know.)Beth is training for a 50 mile race in Michigan some time in Oct. 2007.

Here is Beth(Right) racing Melissa to the finish line at the Buckeye 50K

Another muggy day, We headed from the Boston Store north on the buckeye trail towards Jade Trail. Vince also took us on an adventure to see a large waterfall and some trails that connect to the Buckeye Trail. We were soaking wet from sweat not the waterfalls. We ran for a 1:25 about 8.5 miles.

What am I doing????

Monday Aug. 6, 2007
Who knew when I wrote "No Rest For The Wicked" it was addressed to me. I didn't plan on staying up for 34 hours. My plan was to watch the start of the race, nap a little, prep a little, nap some more. I just got caught up in all the race excitement.
I agreed to help sweep the course, pull up the steaks, ribbons, markers, and pickup any trash left behind from the weary runners. I also took it upon myself to volunteer Vince to help me, after all we still need to get in our miles for the day, he's not going to mind.
Vince & I meet at Bolanz and swept the Covered bridge loop and the road that takes you to O'Neil woods. It was muggy, I was moving slow. A muggy day like today would have change the out come of the race. We carried backpacks to carry the steaks, markers & trash. We were out for a few hours (don't remember how long). I was dog tired when I got home.

Burning River 100

Aug. 3-5 2007

Friday, Saturday, Sunday

What a weekend!!!! History was made this weekend in Northeastern Ohio. A) Was it because Tiger won the Bridgestone Invitationals? B) Legendary Cleveland Browns lineman, Gene Hickerson, finally was inducted into the Football Hall Of Fame? C) 1,800 Twins flocked to the city of Twinsburg? D) None of the above. The answer is D.

Friday night as 1,500+ party-goers packed Cuyahoga Falls River Square for a Queen Tribute Band concert, inside the River Square Pavilion 200+ people(runners, family, friends and Volunteers) gathered for a pre-race dinner for the first Burning River 100 Endurance Race.

I was able to bring two of my favorite passions together. My love for food & running. I was honored to have my company Playing With Knives & Fire provided the catering services for the event. We all fueled our bodies on a carb loading wheat pasta, salad and 400 cookies.

Rob Buckeye Powell with me (Chef Bill Bailey)

"Rob thanks for the picture"

After cleaning up and unpacking my catering gear, I hit the hay so I could get up early to drive to Squires Castle. I wanted to see the start of the race, mingle with the racers, and wish good luck to my friends.

Saturday 3:30am my alarm alerted me to get up!!! It was very loud...I managed to get up, and head out the door on-time. I wasn't sure where I was going, I know the area but never been to the castle.

After the race started Vince, Tim the rep. from Teva and myself went for a 1:55 run. We didn't run with the racers, we didn't want to get in there way. Vince was familiar to the area so he lead us on a 10-11 mile trek to "Trailsville". I had no clue where we were going.

We talked Tim into going with us. He had the usually question we all have when your running with someone new. "Where are we going?" "How fast are you going to run?" "How many mile?" We answered his questions as any runner, we lied to him... "We are just going to loop this little flat trail, no hills..." "Don't worry Vince doesn't run fast." "We will only run about 3 miles." After our run I headed back home to prep for Sunday's Post-race Breakfast. I chopped up some fruit, shopped for last minute ingredients, staged and packed the equipment. I headed to the finish line (Falls River Square Plaza), at 5 pm.

Burning River 100 2007 Finish Line Volunteers

I staged all the equipment that I needed for the breakfast. At one point during the day I looked at the temp. 93 degrees!!!! I was thinking to myself "I hope every one's drinking plenty of fluids." I also helped Vince, Mel & Todd setup the finish line. I called Jen (My Wife) at 6pm to ask what her plans were. She wanted to go home and get some rest before breakfast. I told her I was staying at the finish line to watch the racers run through. She's done with calling me crazy, She knows by now that I come up with some off-the-wall ideas and this is just one of them.

We had cell phone communications at the last two aid stations. We were updated on who was running to the finish line. To see Mark Godale run through the finish line at 16:07:10 was awesome. I am glad to have been there for that moment. Then to see Michael Hayden, the seventeen year old, race through at 19:13:12 was equally impressive. More impressive he hung out at the finish line like he just finished a 5K. You can see all the results at www.burningriver100.org. I can't remember what time I made coffee but that's the fuel that keep the volunteers from falling a sleep.

I started to setup for breakfast at 3:30pm(my 24 hour mark) to keep myself awake. After setting up all the equipment, I left to pickup the food. I started to cook the eggs & pancakes at 6:00am. Everything was going smooth. Jen & Sara kept the food and beverages stocked I cooked the eggs & pancakes. It started to rain, just a sprinkle at first then at the end a nice little down pour. The plan was to have the award ceremony in the amphitheatre, but because of the rain we moved inside the pavilion. After 34 hours my body finally told me to take a nap.

I am so glad I was a part of this event, I'm looking forward to next year.

Training for a 100 mile run takes months of hard work. The race committee did a great planning a course that all runners in NE Ohio can be proud of. As I mentioned before, this race should be challenging to run. We shouldn't have Ultra runners saying "Lets run BR100 it's an easy course to run." It should be hot, hilly, muddy, muggy, and tough for all who dares to race it.

Please take time to view other blogs listed below.

Mike Keller http://www.fitfromfat.blogspot.com/ Mike made it 65 miles, great job Mike.

http://joshdontherun.blogspot.com/ Josh 28:24:44 and he planned to drive back home to Cincinnati after the race. I thought I was nuts!!

http://runningpains.blogspot.com/ Rob made it 65 miles, great job Rob.

http://runwithelizabeth.blogspot.com/ E-Speed spent hours ringing cow bells at an aid station.

http://ultranewby.blogspot.com/ Kim's plans were to pace Mike Keller & work an aid station.

http://rootsrunner.blogspot.com/ Lloyd spend hours manning an aid station.

http://imreallyarunner.blogspot.com/ Brett was my communication line from the second to the last aid station to the finish line.

NO 5 AM RUN MONDAY AUG. 6 2006

Great job to all the BR 100 Ultra Runners.
Do to my sleep deprived body I will be postponing the Monday 5 AM Aug. 6, 2006
Akron Marathon 8 mile training loop. I've been up for 34 continues hours.
Will be post a BR100 blog soon.

NO REST FOR THE WICKED

SATURDAY AUG. 4, 2007 STARTING TIME 5 AM

SQUIRES CASTLE WILLOUGHBY HILLS OHIO

FINISH LINE RIVER FRONT SQUARE CUYAHOGA FALLS OHIO

GOOD LUCK TO ALL RUNNERS

SEE YOU AT BREAKFAST

Thusday 5 AM Run with Nick

Coach Nick & I are training on the Akron Marathon Course today. I mapped out a "There & Back" course. We started at Sand Run Parkway and ran to Market Street and back. This section has a slight incline all the way to Market. Nick's going to set a new PR for his marathon time 3:30. I'm going to try to break 4:00 mark. Last year my time was 4:17.
We cover 8 miles in 1:19 (Including Nick's bathroom break). Map of the route we ran.

Our next Akron Marathon Training run will be Monday Aug. 7, 2007 at 5:00 AM. We will meet at the Akron Art Museum, then run south. We will run an 8 mile loop that covers Firestone Park & Akron U. Anyone can join in on the fun. Call me or email me to let me know.

Wed AM North Hill Run

I got up at 5am to get my run in before Jen headed to work. I ran what I'm calling my North Hill Run. I wasn't real sore from the track workout, but I was more tired then anything. The dogs kept waking me up to "go out". I manage to run at a good pace. I tried to stay on the road as much as I could. I was told the marathon is ran on the roads not the sidewalks.
I was tempted to run the Glen trail but I didn't have my headlamp with me. The North Hill Loop is 7 miles I ran for 1:07. Just in time for Jen to get ready for work. I'm going to work in more 5am runs for my Akron Marathon Training.
I had to get in an early run today I have been working on getting the Burning River 100 Catering together this week. Good Luck to all!!! See you at the Pre-Race Dinner and don't forget there is a Post-Race Breakfast.

Tuesday Night Track Workout

A very hot day today. I made it to the store today. Vince wasn't there to run, so we were on our own tonight. Once we got the the track Vince was there, but he wasn't running. I'm still working on what I'm suppose to do during track workouts. It's not always about running really fast all at once.
Today's workout
800m @ 5K (3:15:83)
1200m @ 10K (5:33:74)
1600m @ 1/2 Marathon (7:51:57)
1200m @ 10k (5:27:73)
800m @ 5k (3:22:13)
with 400m recoveries
Since Vince didn't run he acted as our coach. "Bill move your arms." "Didn't stiffen your shoulders."
Then the last lap he gave the slower runner a head start (I was in this group) , then he told the faster if they didn't catch us we all had to run another 800m.
We had a 16 year old kid that caught us.
Our cool down was only a lap are so, then we headed back to the store.
about 7 miles.

Sat. AM Group Run

Sat. July 28, 2007
Another big group this morning. Most of us are all gearing up for the Akron Marathon. The scheduled run was 14 miles, we have a lady running with a GPS, she said we ran 15.5 miles today. I stuck with Coach Nick today. We ran towards the back of the pack. LSD...No it's not ACID. LSD "Long Slow Distance". Our group broke into two groups again, Vince had the Gazelle running at a good clip. Coach Nick & I made sure the other runners know which way to go. We ran the towpath, roads, the Bike & Hike trail, the carriage Trail, then back to the towpath.
Nick & I are making plans to run portions of the Akron Marathon during the week. This will be Nick's first Akron Marathon. Our first run will be Thurs. Aug. 2 at 5 AM.

Akron Zoo Run

Jen (My Wife) wanted to take the kids to the Akron Zoo. I wanted to run. Then I said
"pack up the kids and I'll meet you at the Zoo." Said said, "OK"...(it was that your nutty/crazy OK). I mapped out my run to see what I was getting myself into. it's only 7.22 miles. Here's the Map . I thought it was going to be a hard run. It was pretty much flat only two major elevations. I spotted a blue blaze on a telephone pole. I found a portion of the Buckeye Trail behind the Zoo. There was no trail it was Perkins Park street. If you look at the map Perkins Park is the actual Zoo. We agreed that I would call and meet me at the gate. When I called they where still at home. I ran a few more roads then headed back to wait in front of the Zoo. What a great way to spin time with my family and still fulfill my running obligations.

Camera Update:
I got a letter today from the camera repair place. because there is a dent on the side of the camera the warranty is void. So for $163.00 I can get my $ 83.00 camera fixed.

Chef Bill Bailey's Blog

I have been really busy. Some running stuff, some food stuff and then there are those little people who live in my house that I have to take care of.

I'm gearing up for the Burning River 100 Catering. My catering company Playing With Knives & Fire will be providing the pre-race dinner and the post-race breakfast. If your at the race come over and introduce yourself and say hello.

Still waiting for my camera to get repaired from Fuji.

Sunday July 22, 2007
I met Brett, Vince, Dave Peterson, Bob Clark & George at O'Neils Woods. In the parking lot we spotted a white rabbit. Sorry no camera...trust me it was white and it was a rabbit. O'Neils is not a very long trail, I think it's about a 1 1/2 mile loop. It's hilly and very challenging. A portion of this trail is in the Burning River 100. Vince & I talked the night before about trekking up to Hines Hill to get some extra mileage. Hines is a 3.5 mile loop and a mile road run there & Back. We mixed up the trail a little bit and ended up running the Buckeye trail to Ira. From there we ran to Akron-Peninsula Rd then to Hines Hill. I want to run up Bath road, there's a nice hill to run up to get to a service entrance. We end up at the main parking lot which was OK. Mike Keller & I ran this trail a few months ago at night. It's a great trail to run at night.
We stuck together for the most part. Toward the end the gazelles got ahead of Brett & I. I expected them to take off sooner, once we caught up to them they were in the parking lot. we ran for about 1 1/2 8 miles.

Tuesday July 24, 2007
Track workout
I got to meet everyone at the store this time. Jen (my wife) is on vacation this week, so I got there on time. Our workout this week was 16 x 400m with 200m recoveries. I wont list them all but
My 400m's were 1:34 to 1:47. It was a rainy day, we didn't get rained on, but the track was wet.
Wednesday July 25, 2007
I met Vince, Wild Bill Wagner & Bill's friend Patty at Happy Days. We ran part of the Burning River 100. Vince, Wild Bill and myself head into "The Hole". You know which one, the cave that you climb into then you pop back out on the top of the rock. We were telling Patty this was the only way to get to the trail. Once we were done we could find Patty. we were yelling for her, we thought she got mad and headed back to her car. We cut off some of the trail to see if we could find her. We found her over by the octagon trail. We were glad, we could have been running around for hours trying to find her. We ran this trail camera-less for about 1 hour 30 minutes. 7-8 miles tonight.

Soon I will have my camera back taking those great pictures you've been accustom to seeing on my blog.

Chef Bill's Week in the Running World

What do you do when you crush you 50K PR by an hour and twenty minutes? Wake up early and go running with Vinnie "The Hill" Rucci. That was Sunday...I ran 7 or8 miles with Vince to collect the signs & TRASH from the trail. Monday I ran again with Vince; a five mile neighborhood run around Silver Lake.
Tuesdays plan was track workout. I woke up and all my energy was drain from my big toe spilling all over the floor. I was a mess. I felt better as the day moved along but then I remembered my wife had to work late, so no track workout.
Wednesday was a mini Night Crawler. Mike Keller & I test out his night lights. Mike's training for the up coming Burning River 100.
We met at Mike's house at 10:00ish PM then head down to the gorge. Before heading out we stop to talk with Mike's neighbor, Tony. I've only met tony through "Blogland".
Mike showed me a trail head I didn't know about that runs off of 18th street. We only ran 4 miles. We were not out long, just enough to get our blood pumping.
Sat AM I ran with the VR Training Group from Lock 29. I ran with Coach Nick and some of others from the group. Nice slow 12 mile run on the roads. Good running day, nice & cool.

Buckeye Trail 50K

Sat. July 14, 2007
Sorry for the delay, here's my BT50K Post.....

I had one of those night where I didn't sleep but I was well rested. I got to Pine Grove a little after 6am. The first thing that caught my one was the Men's bathroom had a line. Only one reason for a line there...The stall with the paper. After getting my bib number pinned to my shirt, getting my shoes and socks on, I was ready to go. I mingled the parking lot with fellow bloggers E-speed, Sensationally Red, Maria, and Brett. I spotted a blogger that I've only seen pictures of KIM. Kim came up to volunteer at an Aid Station. She just ran Mahican 100 miler and will be pacing Mike Keller for his Burning River 100. We talked for a few minutes then Josh (another blogger from Cincinnati) shows up, Josh is running the race. Again another person I've only met in blogland.

After mingling and saying, "Hello", "Hi", "Ready to Go?"...I got my place. I'm running with Brett & Nick the training coach from the VR Training Group. We got a place somewhere in the middle of the pack. It was very loud, I was trying to listen to the very important announcements over all the pre-race chatter. I was scanning the crowd looking for Melissa & Beth (Two runners from the Sat AM group) They had to use the facilities and started at the back of the pack. Both are running their first 50K. If you remember from previous blogs I talked Brett into running his first 50K. Although it was quit noisy for the announcements I did get to hear Mr. Rucci say, "Gentlemen Start your Engines!"...or something like that may he said, "GO!!" We where off and running right at 7am on the dot. We picked up another runner from the Sat AM Group Runs, Nick (Now we have two Nicks running with us this will be fun trying to talk to the both of them).


My goal was to stick with Brett to help him run a good 50K. Brett was pumped full of Adrenalin ready to run and so was I. There was no leader or pacer of our pack we were just all running taking turns running in front. Coach Nick, Nick & Brett all had the GPS monitors. I kept checking our pace & mileage to make sure we were not running to fast. I also kept asking Brett if he was comfortable with the pace. We were averaging a 11.30 pace. At times we were at a 10 min. mile pace. we were all doing quit well. The weather was nice and cool; the trails were dry and some spots dust. Great running weather. The Roots, Rocks, Fallen Trees, and Hills were all place just right...Good Job Vince.

Nick & I started talking about what time we would finish, we all want to run 7-7.5 hours. I didn't want to run to fast, from our previous training runs I know running to fast will come back to haunt me.

I stuck with Brett and the two Nicks ran together. We got to our first aid station at Snowville, but didn't need anything. Our water was fine, we had gels; we decided to keep running and stop at Boston Store Aid Station. We were still running at a good clip, 11.5 min. miles maybe a little faster at times. Brett & I caught up to Nick & Nick, we all ran together from Columbia Rd. through Blue Hen Falls trail. When we got to Boston Store we re-fuel. I got PBJ, and topped off my water. I was set to go again. Kim was at the aid station cheering me on. There was a small crowd of people clapping and cheering. It ready feels good to have people cheering when your out there running. Even though I didn't know the people cheering, it gave me a boost of energy I can't explain.

Next stop Pine Lane. OK this is the section of trail we've been training the most on. We've ran this at night, in the morning, in the rain. I've ran it in 90 degree heat. We know this section trail very well. We were all running at a good pace, again I wanted to check on Brett to make sure he was doing OK. He wasn't. I hexed him... I asked if his stomach was OK. He slowed down to deal with some of his stomach issues, I was a little ahead of him but not by much. I turned to ask if OK. He stopped and said to go head he'll be with me in a minute. At that point I know he was going to have issues. I ran a slower pace for a while to see if he was going to catch up to me. At this point I thought Brett was just going to run a slow pace to finish the race. When I didn't see him for a while I picked up my pace to catch the two Nicks. Brett made it to Boston Store to end the race. I felt bad knowing I talked Brett into running a 50K. He only been running for seven months.

I caught the Nicks; told Coach Nick Brett wasn't feeling well, then we started to talk pace and time again. Coach Nick said if we keep our pace we could crush 7 hours and roll in at 6.5 hours "6.5HOURS!! I was floored. After hearing this I didn't have any bad feelings about Brett anymore. I began to feel very selfish think about the only person running with me....ME! (SORRY BRETT). I would have be happy with 7.5 or 7.25. This got my blood moving. I was so excited when he said that. This was a feeling I can't explain. We back to the Boston Store re-fueled (Just water for me) I was munching on my Clif bars and gels on the trails. Oh but I did drink Coca~Cola. Once back on Buckeye Trail, we had that big hill that is so fun to run down. I was getting tired but managed to power walk up the hill. Once we got to Blue Hen I ran what Vince & Wild Bill refers to as a "suicide run", run as fast as you can down hill. This is where I left the Nicks behind. I kept looking back to see if they were going to catch up. No sign of them. I kept running my pace and found another running, Dave, he ran some BT50K training runs with us a few week ago. We stuck together motivating each other to keep running. At this point my legs where screaming. My IT band kicking me in the ass. I wasn't going to let pain get in the way of my 6.5 hour finish time. Dave had a GPS. "Dave what's our pace, How many miles left." We calculated we were going to finish in 6:10. I was on cloud nine. Trying to figure out how I was running so well. Why is my 50k time an hour and twenty minutes less? When we were run the Bridal Trail, just pasted the stables, Vince was running towards us. "Where's Nick?" He Asked. "He's way back there." Vince said if we kept running we could have a 6 hour finish. We started to run hard again. Then I looked at my watch, we are not going to make 6 hour. We slowed down to our 12 min. mile pace. We got to the driveway I was running slow but it was the fastest I could get my body to run. I could heard e-speed yelling & cheering, but I could see her. She was inside the pavilion. I'm looking around for my wife & kids, they had signs made for me("Run Daddy Run" and "My Daddy Runs With Knives & Fire"). They were pulling in the parking lot when I crossed the finish line. I was so happy; it's so far the best race, the best run ever. Now time to eat!!! 6:09:45 official time.

Melissa & Beth Racing to the finish

Here's media leak...Melissa & Beth's a moment after the race, a photo that should have not been publicized.

Here's Coach Nick running to his finish followed by the Buckeye Trail Troll.

Buckeye Trail 50K

Sat. July 14, 2006
I HAVE TWO WORDS P.R.
Well technically they are letters...I have a new PR for my 50K- 6:09:44 (By my watch). I'll have to totally race report soon. Great Day! Great Race!
How do I feel today? I woke up at 6:30am crabwalked my way to the front porch for some coffee & the newspaper, then called Vince to see if he ran yet today, then ended up calling about running today.
Vince & I ran about 7-8 mile today from Pine Grove just past Snowville to pull markers and to cleanup the trail. I felt good running. I'm ready for more anyone want to run Monday PM???

Two More Days

Two Days until Buckeye Trail 50K. As Sponge Bob would say "I'm Ready...I'm Ready....I'm Ready...."
Camera update. I called the camera repair co. Thursday, they said they sent my camera to Fuji Co. and it will take another 4-6 weeks to return. So no camera for awhile. I may use my phone again.
My wife has a new job and a new work schedule. I got of the house by 4:30pm to run
Thursday. I ran a 5 mile (47:14:08) High-bridge & Signal Tree Trail in the Cascade Valley.
Although it rained earlier in the day the trails were dry. I spent the day helping the kids make signs to hold during my grand 50k finish. I also did some scouting for Vince. He got an email stating that Riverview Rd. was closed. I drove down to check. The road is closed just before Boston Store. There is bridge work in progress. Alternate directions can be found on the Buckeye Trail website. I made my run easy to gear up for the 50K. I did run the hills. The signal tree trail has one of those hills we all love-to-hate-to-run. I must say I'm getting stronger at running to hills, not faster just stronger. Completing the full run up the hill without walking. While running this hill I thought of a project...I want to document and rate the hills in the area (when I get my camera back). Of course not ALL the hills; we do live in SUMMIT County. Just the ones we are familiar with. Initiation Hill, Oak Hill & Plateau Trail, Major Rd. Quick Rd. Just to name a few. I can only think of one man who will be willing to accomplish this task with me...MIKE KELLER
Yes the fearless ultra runner who would run barefoot through through the Burning River 100
with bricks tied to his shirtless back, sipping tomato & orange juice while eating broccoli & cabbage sandwiches with horseradish on fresh baked sourdough bread.

HEY Mike I got another Idea.....

Downtown To Downtown

Tuesday 7/10/2007
I'm hoping to get my camera back soon. My blogs aren't as fun without some photos to add to them.
I skipped track workout today to run the roads. (Sorry Vince I'll be back at the track next week). I ran a 13.32 mile route, Downtown Akron to Downtown Cuyahoga Falls. Here's the Map
I took a different route this time, I ran Sacket to Cuyahoga Street to Howard. Cuyahoga Street is a little tricky because your running on the street with the cars zooming around a blind spot corner. There is no room for error. No sidewalks, the curb is covered with over-growth & brush. Your forced to run with the cars. Is about 1/4 of a mile, you have to run it fast to get to the grass near the Valley View Golf Course. Once your past the golf course, it's all up hill then down hill to Howard street. I got into Downtown Akron all I could think about is The Pretenders song "My City Is Gone". I also had thoughts of the Akron Marathon, I'll be running again this year. Akron has a small portion of the Tow Path finished. There is a nice little walking park with a rubberized track and one of the locks. The water is disgusting!! It had a glowing florescent green color, it was awful looking. I'm hoping when the paths are connected they will clean up the water. I tried to run to Lock 3 behind Canal Park Stadium, but there was a locked gate. I had to travel up next to the stadium to get back to Main Street. Back on main I ran up hill to High Street toward the Akron Police Dept. I found some energy to pickup my speed to run towards North Akron. This turn out to be a bad mistake, I ran out of water. I only took 40 oz. of water & sports drink. I was hurting by the time I got to State Road & Broad Blvd. I thought if I could get to Downtown Cuyahoga Falls, they would have a drinking fountain. No Dice...No water until home. I took a break and walked to Schwebel Bread Factory before I started to run a slow pace back home.
I'll run a few more short runs with week before my 50K Sat.

Sat. 07/07/07

Today was the MUDDY PAWS RACE, I am volunteering my time to help with this very important race. Proceeds for the race will go towards a new Summit County Humane Society facility. I helped out at the Kendell Lake water station. I'm not sure of the official count, but I know it was well over one hundred people and countless dogs. Our water stop was very popular for all on two and four legs. After the race I helped Vince clean up then Vince, Dexter, Sadie, Jim Chaney & I hit the trail again for a five mile cleanup run. Jim is in training for the Burning River 100
I was going to continue to run with him, he needed to get in about 3 hours of running. I had some family obligations to attend too. I'll have to remember this course for a Night Crawler run.

Friday 7/6/2007
I met Vince to to help mark the MUDDY PAWS five mile course. Sure was a lot easier than last year. Last year we walked the course with a mile marking wheel, back-pack full of pie plates (with directional arrows), wooden steaks, and hammers. It was not fun, it took use 3 hours. This year we ran and marked the course with a GPS and bright sprayable chalk. We also had help from Jim Chaney, he brought his GPS. What a great course to run, the five & Ten mile courses are what trail running is all about...hills, roots, dirt, rocks. Except the weather didn't cooperate...it didn't rain we didn't have any mud. Great run thanks guys see you in the morning!!!

Boulevard To Boulevard

Thursday July 5, 2007
Saturday's your lucky day, Vertical Runner's MUDDY PAWS. Bring your dog out for a 2 mile romp in the woods. For time, course map, location visit Vertical Runner's website.

I received a call today from a writer for the Akron Life and Leisure Magazine. They are writing a story about training groups for the Akron Marathon. Vince was the first to be interviewed. He gave the writer my number. The article will be featured in the Sept. 2007 issue of Akron Life and Leisure Magazine.

Still in training for the Buckeeye 50K I ran what I call "Boulevard To Boulevard". Broad Blvd. to Chestnut Blvd. It's a nice 5.2 mile run that takes me through some residential neighborhoods. Here's the route MAP There were a lot of runners out tonight, maybe gearing up for the Akron Marathon or maybe seeing me running in the neighborhood all the time inspired them to get up and run!! (Mike I may have ran passed your neighbor TONY) I didn't take a camera today. My new camera is shipped out to the repair shop, I've be relying on my phone camera for the last few weeks. It's not as good, I can't get any good running shots. I also didn't take my tunes with me tonight. I had problems with the earbub headphones. Technology has not be good to me. I have to go out and get a new set to use in the BT 50K. I ran the 5.2 miles in 49.33. I wasn't running very hard, just enough to rid my body of all the four of July food I had to eat.

Friday PM I'll be out with Vince to mark the MUDDY PAWS Course, I'll run about 5 miles of the course. Sat. AM I'll be volunteering at MUDDY PAWS. I'm hoping to run 10-15 miles later in the day, but I have some family obligations which may cause my run to be delayed to Sunday. Hope to see everyone at MUDDY PAWS.

Recipe of the week

FYI

My website is now set up to provide recipes. The recipes will be updated weekly. If you miss one email me and I'll have one sent to you.

http://www.playingwithknivesandfire.com/Recipe.html

Running with The Dawgs

It was a nice cool evening to run with the bitches Sara & Monet.
We headed out from the Boston Store north on the Buckeye Trail. A little over 10 miles round trip. The dogs ran like it was race day. They both started out fast then very slow at the end. I kept a nice slow pace to train for my 50K. A few times they would head into the woods to case something, I think chipmunks. I got them to pick up the pace, Sara was dragging ass for a little while. Once we got to Blue Hen she was done, She talked me into talking her down the hill instead of heading back onto the buckeye trail. We were out for about 2:00.
Crossing the bridge over the Cuyahoga River we came a cross this deer that wouldn't move.
I'll run about 20 more miles this week to finish up my tapering week. Great running weather this week temps are in the 70's. I'll get the bitches out again this week but only for a 5-6 mile run.

Also keep an eye on my website www.playingwithknivesandfire.com I have a new post for all to enjoy "recipe of the week"

I'll have all your favorite recipes posted.