The Big Miles

This time of year for long distance runners is what I can the Big Weeks. The Big Weeks are when our running mileage is at is longest and where the training is at its peak. And sometimes it is when I get a little cramby [or my family would say "crabbier than normal].

I ran a long trail run Thursday on a local trail. All in all it went well although it was very warm and humid. My body is acclimated to the heat, but I just can't keep up with the hydration on days like this. I finished looking like a wet dog.

I have a theory about long runs...there is always one and sometime two of the super long runs that are really challenging. My theory is that it happens to make sure we don't get too cocky about our training. A humble pie run has a way with making you respect the distance and prepare fully for race day. Ultimately, it is a good thing. It keeps me from dancing on tables the night before the race.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Lucky Duck

I was probably all of six or seven years old when I started organizing events. Big Wheel races down the block, hand stand contests, and of course the "who can ride their bike the longest with no hands" competition. So, as I stood next to my husband John Bingham at the start of the 2007 LaSalle Bank Chicago Distance Classic Half Marathon Sunday I was in tears.

It brought me back to what I love the most - movement and a great challenge with a few neighborhood friends. John bought the race in 2002 when there were about 2,000 runners and we've gradually built it up to over 11,800 - thanks to the wonderful Chicago running community.

I feel blessed to be able to do what I loved as a kid, share that with my husband and all the wonderful people we meet at the races. Thanks to all who have contributed to the success of this event.

Life is good.

Jenny

Tail of the Dragon

This One's For Sam...

It's been a wild and crazy few weeks. John and I took a week and rode our motorcycles out east to DC to see the grandkids [yes, I am a "grammy"], then off to ride the Blue Ridge Parkway. I just learned how to ride 2 years ago and absolutely fell in love with it. Perhaps it was due to my scootering days? I don't know...

Every summer I set out to try something "hard". That is, something that is outside my comfort zone. Two years ago it was learning to ride a motorcycle. Last year it was - hmmm, well I must have skipped last year. This year it was riding the Tail of the Dragon. The nation's best and most dangerous motorcycling road. 318 turns in 11 miles through the Great Smoky Mountains in NC and TN. The bonus is there is a tourist shop at the end so you can shop! Shirts like "I slayed the Dragon", Dragon Slayer... you get the point. Well, we didn't exactly "Slay" the Dragon but we sure got through it a few times. And we have the swag to prove it!

It's been a great summer and it's not even over yet. Who knows what next summer will bring. Right now, I'm just enjoying my Dragon Slayer shirt, pin, patch, stickers and of course my bragging rights. I believe they last for 318 days.

This blog goes out to a good friend and Chicago Endurance Sports runner, Sam Nelson. He is resting comfortably after heart surgery today. Sam, I'm counting the days until we can share the trails again. Get better soon...

Jenny