Last month I was injured for about 3 weeks ... this month I was sick for about 3 weeks. Do the math: in the last 2 months I have managed to put in 2 weeks of running.
To tell you the truth it's all part of my secret project. I have a hypothesis: to run a fast marathon all you need is an average of 5 km per day. That's all you need. Zero long runs, and 100% extreme short runs at easy pace ... running a marathon is easier than boiling water.
I shall have my results in February ... unless I sell my marathon number (again).
December
1.- Rest
2.- Rest
3.- Jog 10 km
4.- Jog 10 km
5.- Jog 12 km
6.- Sick
7.- Sick
8.- Sick
9.- Sick
10.- Jog 10 km
11.- Jog 12 km
12.- Easy 1600 +(800x5) - Total 15 km
1600 in 4.57
13.- Jog 10 km
14.- Jog 10 km
15.- Jog 7 km
16.- Ota-ku 10 km - 35.58
17.- Jog 13 km
18.- Jog 11 km
19.- Sick - Deadly influenza virus
20.- Sick
21.- Sick
22.- Sick
23.- Sick
24.- Sick
25.- Sick
26.- Sick
27.- Sick
28.- Sick
29.- Sick
30.- Sick
31.- Sick
Total running: 137 km
Monday, December 31, 2007
Saturday, December 22, 2007
I think God wants me to quit running
I have spent the entire summer and fall running hard waiting for the winter races and for what?
I get a 3 week injury while shopping! Losing chances of running Ageo Half ...
But that's okay, I mean, I needed some time off anyways ... plus I still had a 10km left in December to end the year with a good personal best. However ... I get sick for about a week just when I had began running again.
But that's okay too, I mean, there is always next year ... plus I got back on my feet a week before the 17th leaving me with just enough time (actually less) to prepare for my first marathon in February.
But a few days ago I was diagnosed influenza type A.
A step back: Takako actually warned me about it, urging me to get a vaccine quick and to take the appropiate precautions. Instead I decided to leave that for when the holidays came. What are the chances of catching it? And how bad can it be? (No influenza in Lima as far as I know due to the all year round warm weather).
Now that I have it ... man does it suck.
So I went to work with high fever and was sent back home. From home I was sent to the doctor and the doctor stuck a long cable up my nostrils (now that was an awful feeling). The result: Influenza type A.
I left the hospital with 5 different pills, some garggle thing and some liquid medicine. And with a letter saying I was not allowed to work or have contact with others as I was too contagious ... for 10 days. TEN DAYS ! That means not even Santa Claus will approach me this Christmas.
10 days locked up in my room wearing a mask and receiving my food through a small opening on my door. 10 more days with no running ... with that said ... bye bye good first marathon debut.
Well at least I am not starting the year bad ... this should end December 29th ... I hope.
I get a 3 week injury while shopping! Losing chances of running Ageo Half ...
But that's okay, I mean, I needed some time off anyways ... plus I still had a 10km left in December to end the year with a good personal best. However ... I get sick for about a week just when I had began running again.
But that's okay too, I mean, there is always next year ... plus I got back on my feet a week before the 17th leaving me with just enough time (actually less) to prepare for my first marathon in February.
But a few days ago I was diagnosed influenza type A.
A step back: Takako actually warned me about it, urging me to get a vaccine quick and to take the appropiate precautions. Instead I decided to leave that for when the holidays came. What are the chances of catching it? And how bad can it be? (No influenza in Lima as far as I know due to the all year round warm weather).
Now that I have it ... man does it suck.
So I went to work with high fever and was sent back home. From home I was sent to the doctor and the doctor stuck a long cable up my nostrils (now that was an awful feeling). The result: Influenza type A.
I left the hospital with 5 different pills, some garggle thing and some liquid medicine. And with a letter saying I was not allowed to work or have contact with others as I was too contagious ... for 10 days. TEN DAYS ! That means not even Santa Claus will approach me this Christmas.
10 days locked up in my room wearing a mask and receiving my food through a small opening on my door. 10 more days with no running ... with that said ... bye bye good first marathon debut.
Well at least I am not starting the year bad ... this should end December 29th ... I hope.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Ota-Ku 10k/10mile Roadrace report
On December 16th I ran the Ota-ku 10km road race. I didn't really know if I would run it until the race day morning as I didn't want to interrupt my comeback into running with a hard 10km.
Due to injury and sickness (read previous logs) I haven't really been able to set foot on the road. Between Nov. 9th and Dec. 9th I managed to run only 5 days of very easy and low mileage. Last Monday I actually jogged my first 10km and finished exhausted (45min jog).
Woke up and decided ... why not? I'll just keep it easy on the legs.
Plus I had ran this event last year and really enjoyed it (below find my 2006 race report with details on the venue and race).
Got there and to my surprise ran into Gerard (a new running mate) during my warm-up. Right there I knew what my strategy should be. Run behind Gerard all the way as he has been training and doing 10km races recently (no km marks at this race so it's difficult to keep an even pace if you haven't been running).
Just like planned stayed right behind him for the first two laps of the three lap course ...
At the start of the third lap (each lap consisted of first a lap in the track and then a lap around the park) Gerard picked up the pace and in a few seconds had a 100 meter lead. For a second I thought about going after him, but decided to stick to my plan and make no crazy moves. Kept the same pace ending with a 35.58. Almost 90 seconds slower than last year, but I was happy and surprised I could break 36 considering the conditions this year.
Apparently I finished 6th in my age group. The medals here are pretty fancy so might try to get one next year.
Back in time: 2006 Ota-ku race report
Today I ran the Ootaku road race. The race took place inside a park at a track and consisted on laps around it (3 for the 10km). I thought it was quite difficult to find the race place. One of the closest stations, tachiaigawa, is 15 - 20 min away by foot.
There were 3 events: 3km, 10km and 10mile run. Apparently the 10 mile was the main event. The top 6 athletes went under 49 minutes and I think the top 15 were under 50. All first 20 athletes or so were athletes form Keio University and Touyou, probably their hakone ekiden team.
I took part in the 10km event. This was my second 10km and I was going for a great result, as my first 10km was terrible, slower than both the first and 2nd 10km in the half marathon I ran last month. Unfortunately I arrived really late, 10 minutes before the race, with enough time to sign up and change. Also not a single mark except for the last 1km and well you could sort of calculate the first 1km as well. Many university students as well, but their team B and C. After the first 10km I was 4th at a 3.12 pace, after that it all went bad. I got surrounded by the Keio team and thought I was probably going to fast so slowed down. At around the third km there was a pack ahead and me with two Keio athletes way behind. At around this mark came a 90 degree turn (I make my turns really tight) and I accidentally closed the guy behind me, which isn't really my problem as he is behind me. I guess he didn't like that because he grabged my shoulder and pulled me back and accelerated leaving me angry and wanting reveange totally forgetting about the race. The 2nd lap I was just tired and upset, when I did track in Peru this kind of thing happens often, but I was caught by surprise in Tokyo. The third lap came and realized I was full of energy so accelerated. Last 1km was a bit slower than the first, around a 3.15. Ended 8th £¨7th actually since the first place was a coach that was pacing), with 6 Keio athletes ahead. Time was 34.33, a 50 second PB but far from my 33.50 goal.
Overall I was satisfied with the result. Ended and began strong, and felt genki at the end of the race. I am sure I will break 34 next time...hope so at least.
I would recommend this race for anyone who wants a fast race.
In the 10mile you get to run shoulder to shoulder with hakone ekiden athletes and in the 10km you can measure yourself against the B teams (2nd place did 33.02, the coach of like 50 years old, ex olympic did a 31.43).
I will definetely run it next year.
Everyone gets a shirt and the winners get a nice medal/trophy.
...still thinking about that guy that pulled me ... made the race ... interesting.
Due to injury and sickness (read previous logs) I haven't really been able to set foot on the road. Between Nov. 9th and Dec. 9th I managed to run only 5 days of very easy and low mileage. Last Monday I actually jogged my first 10km and finished exhausted (45min jog).
Woke up and decided ... why not? I'll just keep it easy on the legs.
Plus I had ran this event last year and really enjoyed it (below find my 2006 race report with details on the venue and race).
Got there and to my surprise ran into Gerard (a new running mate) during my warm-up. Right there I knew what my strategy should be. Run behind Gerard all the way as he has been training and doing 10km races recently (no km marks at this race so it's difficult to keep an even pace if you haven't been running).
Just like planned stayed right behind him for the first two laps of the three lap course ...
At the start of the third lap (each lap consisted of first a lap in the track and then a lap around the park) Gerard picked up the pace and in a few seconds had a 100 meter lead. For a second I thought about going after him, but decided to stick to my plan and make no crazy moves. Kept the same pace ending with a 35.58. Almost 90 seconds slower than last year, but I was happy and surprised I could break 36 considering the conditions this year.
Apparently I finished 6th in my age group. The medals here are pretty fancy so might try to get one next year.
Back in time: 2006 Ota-ku race report
Today I ran the Ootaku road race. The race took place inside a park at a track and consisted on laps around it (3 for the 10km). I thought it was quite difficult to find the race place. One of the closest stations, tachiaigawa, is 15 - 20 min away by foot.
There were 3 events: 3km, 10km and 10mile run. Apparently the 10 mile was the main event. The top 6 athletes went under 49 minutes and I think the top 15 were under 50. All first 20 athletes or so were athletes form Keio University and Touyou, probably their hakone ekiden team.
I took part in the 10km event. This was my second 10km and I was going for a great result, as my first 10km was terrible, slower than both the first and 2nd 10km in the half marathon I ran last month. Unfortunately I arrived really late, 10 minutes before the race, with enough time to sign up and change. Also not a single mark except for the last 1km and well you could sort of calculate the first 1km as well. Many university students as well, but their team B and C. After the first 10km I was 4th at a 3.12 pace, after that it all went bad. I got surrounded by the Keio team and thought I was probably going to fast so slowed down. At around the third km there was a pack ahead and me with two Keio athletes way behind. At around this mark came a 90 degree turn (I make my turns really tight) and I accidentally closed the guy behind me, which isn't really my problem as he is behind me. I guess he didn't like that because he grabged my shoulder and pulled me back and accelerated leaving me angry and wanting reveange totally forgetting about the race. The 2nd lap I was just tired and upset, when I did track in Peru this kind of thing happens often, but I was caught by surprise in Tokyo. The third lap came and realized I was full of energy so accelerated. Last 1km was a bit slower than the first, around a 3.15. Ended 8th £¨7th actually since the first place was a coach that was pacing), with 6 Keio athletes ahead. Time was 34.33, a 50 second PB but far from my 33.50 goal.
Overall I was satisfied with the result. Ended and began strong, and felt genki at the end of the race. I am sure I will break 34 next time...hope so at least.
I would recommend this race for anyone who wants a fast race.
In the 10mile you get to run shoulder to shoulder with hakone ekiden athletes and in the 10km you can measure yourself against the B teams (2nd place did 33.02, the coach of like 50 years old, ex olympic did a 31.43).
I will definetely run it next year.
Everyone gets a shirt and the winners get a nice medal/trophy.
...still thinking about that guy that pulled me ... made the race ... interesting.
Monday, December 3, 2007
November running ... if this actually counts as running.
November stands out as my comeback into sports. I usually run my main event of the year in this month. 2007 was no different ... or was it? (ooo trying to make the blog exciting). I signed up for Ageo Half Marathon, one of the most elite races in the country, in search for a personal best. Did all the right moves, but on the last preparation training day I got injured badly ... had to sit on the sideline for 3 weeks, making November my lamest month so far.
Now let's remember ... the 9th of November ... No, let's remember I am training for my first real FULL marathon. I now have some 11 weeks left, but starting from 0. That is just too short ... so wait for the Tokyo Marathon report ... it should be terrorific.
November
1.- Jog 10 km
2.- Jog 17 km
3.- Rest
4.- Jog 16 km
5.- Jog 19 km @ 4.15 down to 4.10 pace
6.- Jog 17 km
7.- Jog 19 km @ 4.10 pace
8.- Jog 13 km
9.- Jog 3 km AH INJURED ... OUCH
10.- Injury
11.- Injury
12.- Injury
13.- Injury
14.- Injury
15.- Injury
16.- Injury
17.- Injury
18.- Injury
19.- Injury
20.- Injury
21.- Injury
22.- Injury
23.- Injury
24.- Injury
25.- Injury
26.- Injury
27.- Easy 6 km jog
28.- Easy 6 km jog
29.- Injury
30.- Injury
Total running: 126 km
Now let's remember ... the 9th of November ... No, let's remember I am training for my first real FULL marathon. I now have some 11 weeks left, but starting from 0. That is just too short ... so wait for the Tokyo Marathon report ... it should be terrorific.
November
1.- Jog 10 km
2.- Jog 17 km
3.- Rest
4.- Jog 16 km
5.- Jog 19 km @ 4.15 down to 4.10 pace
6.- Jog 17 km
7.- Jog 19 km @ 4.10 pace
8.- Jog 13 km
9.- Jog 3 km AH INJURED ... OUCH
10.- Injury
11.- Injury
12.- Injury
13.- Injury
14.- Injury
15.- Injury
16.- Injury
17.- Injury
18.- Injury
19.- Injury
20.- Injury
21.- Injury
22.- Injury
23.- Injury
24.- Injury
25.- Injury
26.- Injury
27.- Easy 6 km jog
28.- Easy 6 km jog
29.- Injury
30.- Injury
Total running: 126 km
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
12 days and counting
Just like I imagined: 3 weeks with no physical activities. 12 days have already gone by and I have gained about 4 kilos. Well the extra weight is welcome ... as long as it doesn't affect my results.
The plan now: to swim for the remaining 10 days in hope to keep my stamina. Plus it'll give me some workout for my skinny arms ... which is needed.
This will leave me with a little over two months to prepare for my first full marathon. And considering the week of easy jogging when I get back on the road, the holidays (which will of course include partying) and the tapering week, those two months will be not enough. Looking forward to the 3 hours of pain.
woohoo
The plan now: to swim for the remaining 10 days in hope to keep my stamina. Plus it'll give me some workout for my skinny arms ... which is needed.
This will leave me with a little over two months to prepare for my first full marathon. And considering the week of easy jogging when I get back on the road, the holidays (which will of course include partying) and the tapering week, those two months will be not enough. Looking forward to the 3 hours of pain.
woohoo
Saturday, November 10, 2007
WHYYYYYYY!!!!!! - a stupid post because I have nothing to do
November began quite good. Cool temperatures and few rainy days allowed me to make long comfortable runs in preparation for this year's main event: Ageo half marathon.
Injury free (no more left calf or right knee pains), I set off for a final run before tapering on Friday. The menu: 6 x 2000 at 3.30 pace.
BAM I twisted my fucking left ankle 500 meters before arriving to the track. Fortunately I was walking when it happened (won't go through it as it is retarded) ... but it was still extremely painful as I fell from a step.
I have weak ankles that are easy to sprain. I have probably twisted my ankle an average of one time a year. And it has become a phobia since I twisted it really badly in 2001.
A Friday 13th in 2001 (real date)
I was walking the dog and it just happened ... twisted my ankle trying to pull my dog - somehow jumped (after twisting it) and landed on that leg again while the ankle was twisted making the sole of my foot face upwards completely.
Blacked out for a second or two due to the pain and stayed there on the street first biting hard then laughing like a madman (I laugh when something hurts) for at least 30 minutes. Of course nobody approached the laughing madman.
Went to the hospital some days later (like I said I sprain my ankle often so thought it would go away like always) after my ankle had gotten thicker than my thigh ... You have two options, the doctor said, put a cast on it now and never run again or go through surgery fix the mess and hope for the best.
WHOA I thought ... say WHAT!
So yes I went into surgery. What began as a minor surgery became a major 7 hour operation where the doctor had to rebuild part of my ankle and place a small piece of metal (that is still in there) in it. 6 months of rest ... about a year before I both my legs had the same strength again.
Since that day I always run looking at the floor now and then and rarely play futbol seriously as I am afraid it will happen again.
It has happened about 3 times since then (all minor).
Friday 9th 2007
Like I said I won't go into details - it would be ridiculous mentioning I was distracted by putting a band aid over my nipple (runners do that by the way, for those who do not run) and missed a step, thus spraining my ankle.
But yes, it hurt bad and I looked at the sky and screamed "fuuuccckkk why now" scaring the people around me and then just sat there waiting for the pain to cease for 20 minutes (man it was cold and rainy).
Took a taxi and went home to follow the rest-ice-compress-elevate procedure in hopes of miracolously make it better.
Now Saturday I can at least step on it and move it a bit, but it is still thick and has some red stains ... which in my experience means that something inside has popped.
Tomorrow I will get a check up and see what's up down there.
My guess: The doctor will tell me to rest for about 10 days or more ... aka missing the most important race I've got this year ... missing 10 or more days of running which would mean my current endurance decreasing big time ...
And the worst part is I cannot go out and have some wild fun (now that I cannot run) because I cannot even walk.
I guess it's time to open those Japanese textbooks and study for the coming exam.
Injury free (no more left calf or right knee pains), I set off for a final run before tapering on Friday. The menu: 6 x 2000 at 3.30 pace.
BAM I twisted my fucking left ankle 500 meters before arriving to the track. Fortunately I was walking when it happened (won't go through it as it is retarded) ... but it was still extremely painful as I fell from a step.
I have weak ankles that are easy to sprain. I have probably twisted my ankle an average of one time a year. And it has become a phobia since I twisted it really badly in 2001.
A Friday 13th in 2001 (real date)
I was walking the dog and it just happened ... twisted my ankle trying to pull my dog - somehow jumped (after twisting it) and landed on that leg again while the ankle was twisted making the sole of my foot face upwards completely.
Blacked out for a second or two due to the pain and stayed there on the street first biting hard then laughing like a madman (I laugh when something hurts) for at least 30 minutes. Of course nobody approached the laughing madman.
Went to the hospital some days later (like I said I sprain my ankle often so thought it would go away like always) after my ankle had gotten thicker than my thigh ... You have two options, the doctor said, put a cast on it now and never run again or go through surgery fix the mess and hope for the best.
WHOA I thought ... say WHAT!
So yes I went into surgery. What began as a minor surgery became a major 7 hour operation where the doctor had to rebuild part of my ankle and place a small piece of metal (that is still in there) in it. 6 months of rest ... about a year before I both my legs had the same strength again.
Since that day I always run looking at the floor now and then and rarely play futbol seriously as I am afraid it will happen again.
It has happened about 3 times since then (all minor).
Friday 9th 2007
Like I said I won't go into details - it would be ridiculous mentioning I was distracted by putting a band aid over my nipple (runners do that by the way, for those who do not run) and missed a step, thus spraining my ankle.
But yes, it hurt bad and I looked at the sky and screamed "fuuuccckkk why now" scaring the people around me and then just sat there waiting for the pain to cease for 20 minutes (man it was cold and rainy).
Took a taxi and went home to follow the rest-ice-compress-elevate procedure in hopes of miracolously make it better.
Now Saturday I can at least step on it and move it a bit, but it is still thick and has some red stains ... which in my experience means that something inside has popped.
Tomorrow I will get a check up and see what's up down there.
My guess: The doctor will tell me to rest for about 10 days or more ... aka missing the most important race I've got this year ... missing 10 or more days of running which would mean my current endurance decreasing big time ...
And the worst part is I cannot go out and have some wild fun (now that I cannot run) because I cannot even walk.
I guess it's time to open those Japanese textbooks and study for the coming exam.
Friday, November 9, 2007
October running: back to the 400 km
Hard month, running 3 races, with unfortunately no PB’s (ran two injured) and 1 time trial (PB). However, although I had to take off 6 days due to my knee pain I still manage to run over 400 km in the month. Best daily mileage average per training day so far. Also did my first 30 km run: It was difficult, but not as tough as I thought it would be. Managed to run the last 5 km under 19 min. Gotta thank Jason for that.Next race … Ageo half marathon.
October
1.- Morning: Jog 10 km
Afternoon: Hard ladder workout – 3 min 200 meter recovery jog (12 km)
1000 (2.54) – 800 (2.15) – 600 (1.41) – 400 (1.04) – 200 (28)
2.- Jog 14 km
3.- Jog 18 km @ 4.07 pace
4.- 15 x 230 meters – average 41 seconds – Total: 18 km
5.- Jog 13 km
6.- Rest
7.- Track race at Aoba no mori park (Chiba)
1500 meters: 4.15.51
800 meters: 2.09.42 (*20 min after the 1500)
8.- 30 km tempo run
Starting at 4.25 pace and ending at 3.35 pace (2.03 total time)
9.- Jog 17 km @ 4.22 pace.
10.- Hard ladder workout - 400 meter recovery jog 5-4-3 min rest respectively.
800 (2.09) – 600 (1.37) – 400 (1.03) – 200 (29) (15 km)
11.- Jog 15 km
12.- Jog 18 km (10 km @ 4.15 pace)
13.- Rest
14.- Track race at Tokyo National Stadium (1500): 4.14.59
15.- Knee injury - rest
16.- Jog 21 km
17.- 6 x 1000 – 2 min 400 meter recovery jog: Total 17 km
3.36 – 3.31 – 3.22 – 3.20 – 3.16 – 3.07
18.- Knee injury - rest
19.- Jog 18 km (easy)
20.- Jog 10 km (easy)
21.- Takashimadaira 20 km - 1.13.54
3.28 – 3.30 – 3.24 – 3.30 – 3.29 > 17.22 – 5 km
3.35 – 3.37 – 3.30 – 3.35 – 3.38 > 35.18 – 10 km
3.47 – 3.48 – 3.40 – 3.48 – 3.54 > 54.16 – 15 km
3.56 – 3.56 – 3.53 – 3.56 – 3.56 > 1.13.54 – 20 km
22.- Knee injury - rest
23.- Knee injury – rest (doctor check)
24.- 9 x 800 – 3 min 400 meter recovery jog: Total 19 km
2.56 – 2.57 – 2.59 – 2.58 – 2.56 – 2.58 – 2.59 – 2.58 – 2.56
25.- 3 km Time Trial: 9.13.82 PB
26.- 4 x 5000 – 5 min 1000 meter recovery jog: Total 27 km
18.43 (3.45 pace) – 18.18 (3.40 pace) – 17.52 (3.35 pace) 17.23 (3.30 pace)
27.- Knee injury - rest
28.- Jog 15 km
29.- Knee injury - rest
30.- Jog 19 km (easy)
31.- Jog 19 km
Total running: 404 km
October
1.- Morning: Jog 10 km
Afternoon: Hard ladder workout – 3 min 200 meter recovery jog (12 km)
1000 (2.54) – 800 (2.15) – 600 (1.41) – 400 (1.04) – 200 (28)
2.- Jog 14 km
3.- Jog 18 km @ 4.07 pace
4.- 15 x 230 meters – average 41 seconds – Total: 18 km
5.- Jog 13 km
6.- Rest
7.- Track race at Aoba no mori park (Chiba)
1500 meters: 4.15.51
800 meters: 2.09.42 (*20 min after the 1500)
8.- 30 km tempo run
Starting at 4.25 pace and ending at 3.35 pace (2.03 total time)
9.- Jog 17 km @ 4.22 pace.
10.- Hard ladder workout - 400 meter recovery jog 5-4-3 min rest respectively.
800 (2.09) – 600 (1.37) – 400 (1.03) – 200 (29) (15 km)
11.- Jog 15 km
12.- Jog 18 km (10 km @ 4.15 pace)
13.- Rest
14.- Track race at Tokyo National Stadium (1500): 4.14.59
15.- Knee injury - rest
16.- Jog 21 km
17.- 6 x 1000 – 2 min 400 meter recovery jog: Total 17 km
3.36 – 3.31 – 3.22 – 3.20 – 3.16 – 3.07
18.- Knee injury - rest
19.- Jog 18 km (easy)
20.- Jog 10 km (easy)
21.- Takashimadaira 20 km - 1.13.54
3.28 – 3.30 – 3.24 – 3.30 – 3.29 > 17.22 – 5 km
3.35 – 3.37 – 3.30 – 3.35 – 3.38 > 35.18 – 10 km
3.47 – 3.48 – 3.40 – 3.48 – 3.54 > 54.16 – 15 km
3.56 – 3.56 – 3.53 – 3.56 – 3.56 > 1.13.54 – 20 km
22.- Knee injury - rest
23.- Knee injury – rest (doctor check)
24.- 9 x 800 – 3 min 400 meter recovery jog: Total 19 km
2.56 – 2.57 – 2.59 – 2.58 – 2.56 – 2.58 – 2.59 – 2.58 – 2.56
25.- 3 km Time Trial: 9.13.82 PB
26.- 4 x 5000 – 5 min 1000 meter recovery jog: Total 27 km
18.43 (3.45 pace) – 18.18 (3.40 pace) – 17.52 (3.35 pace) 17.23 (3.30 pace)
27.- Knee injury - rest
28.- Jog 15 km
29.- Knee injury - rest
30.- Jog 19 km (easy)
31.- Jog 19 km
Total running: 404 km
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Takashimadaira 20 km
On October 21st I took part in an elite road race in Takashimadaira.The race was very well organized with volunteers blocking every corner to avoid the athletes from making wrong turns, kilometer marks, water stations, and some other necessary details to make it flawless.
They even pulled out a piece of garden (those gardens that run in the middle of a road) to make a passage for the runners, which was placed back once the race was over. It reminded me of the 1994 World Cup (for some reason) when a goal broke and they brought in a new one instantly.
The course, totally flat, consisted on 4 laps around a residential area running from Takashimadaira station to Nishi-Takashimadaira station. With Kilometer marks signaling the 2nd, 3rd and 4th kilometers.
Unfortunately the weather was not in our favor that day. It was a bit too sunny and very windy between the 4th kilometer mark and the finish line.
Like always, my physical condition was not optimal either. I still had my knee and back injuries, some lack of sleep and the worries of life we all carry on our shoulders. Not to mention the pain in my eyebrows, which had a direct effect on my bad result.
Now to the race performance, by that I mean the bad part.
Goal time was 70 minutes, running at an even pace of 17.30 per lap.
First lap was comfortable, cruising at 17.25 or so. Second lap, was not as wonderful, but still managed, going through the 10km mark at 35.15 (those hairs in my eyebrow were starting to hurt). From this point on, things began to crumble down. I slowed down to 3.50 per km and kept slowing finishing with a 3.55 pace.
Total time: 1.13.54. Four minutes off my target time.
Why did this happen? Who knows … I guess, let’s hope at least, it was just a bad race day. I felt pretty comfortable throughout and most importantly the 20km felt short and not long and tedious like my previous over 10km races.
Now I have 5 weeks with no races to prepare for Ageo, an even more elite race that takes place in Saitama.
(Hopefully my knee and nipple – had a major nipple injury – will feel better soon. Knee injury though seems bad. Had to take Monday off, maybe an easy jog today)
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Last track race of the year
On October 14th I took part in a track race in Tokyo National Stadium. This was my last official track race this year and my last chance to break 4.10 in 1500.
There were 103 runners divided into 4 groups (26) registered for the 1500. Usually the fastest group is last, rarely first. This time however it was the 3rd group, mine, the one with the fast times.
Excellent start, locating myself among the top 5 runners. Kept going at pace for the first 600 meters. Messed it up in the middle 600 meters and recovered lost terrain in the last 300 meters.
Finished 4th with a time of 4.14.
No PB and no goal accomplished, but a good run considering I had an injured knee.
I guess I will have to wait until April for another shot to break 4.10.
There were 103 runners divided into 4 groups (26) registered for the 1500. Usually the fastest group is last, rarely first. This time however it was the 3rd group, mine, the one with the fast times.
Excellent start, locating myself among the top 5 runners. Kept going at pace for the first 600 meters. Messed it up in the middle 600 meters and recovered lost terrain in the last 300 meters.
Finished 4th with a time of 4.14.
No PB and no goal accomplished, but a good run considering I had an injured knee.
I guess I will have to wait until April for another shot to break 4.10.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Two track races within 30 minutes
On October 7th I took part in Chiba's 43rd Sport's tournament Track meet (no idea if this is translated correctly). It took part in Aoba no mori park, a beautiful green area similar to Tokyo's Komazawa park.
To get to the venue was harder than expected. It took me about an hour to reach Chiba station from Shinjuku and some 20 minutes to find the bus to take me there.
For anyone who decides to visit the park, take bus number 2.
I took part in 1500 and 800. The 1500 was scheduled for 11:20am and the 800 for 12:05. Lucky me (irony here) I was placed in the last heat in the 1500 so began near 11:30 and in the first heat of 800 which began at exactly 12:05.
The 1500
For some reason, here, like in my previous 1500 I had a bad start (I usually have a good start and a bad finish).
I wonder if it's because I began inside (both times in lane 2) or because of the false start (both had them).
The judge called us in ... on your marks ... GET SET ... poof air - the gun had no bullets ... oops sorry everyone take a step back.
On your marks - get set - bam ... I find myself in the back of the pack.
First 200's were slow, probably around 35 ... catched some runners and placed myself 2nd before entering the curve again. Lap split 1.08 ... slow for a first lap.
Everyone kept their place for the next 50 meters. Nobody making any moves.
Decided to spice things up and took the lead ... 2nd lap split 1.08 again ... slow but at least at an even pace.
Still first with nobody to pull me along ... third lap split again 1.08.
Finished first with a 4.15.6 or so. My first official win in Japan, but far from a PB.
The 800
It took me about 10 minutes to pick my stuff from the 1500 start line, catch a breathe and change into jogging shirt. It took me another 15 minutes to cool down and stretch for a bit.
10 minutes to go before the 800 start and I was dead tired.
I was running this pretty much as an interval as there was no way I was getting a PB ... but I did not want to finish last.
BAM! The race began and I took a comfortable 3rd position keeping the 1st place on sight. First lap a not so comfortable 1.05. The first place 4 seconds ahead seemed to by dying by the second. Began my move with 250 meters to go. Got in 2nd and went took the lead with 50 meters to go winning with a 2.09 (I only won my heat though ... placed 5th in general).
Negative splits ... good run.
For anyone looking into taking part in this event next year, the race is very local. I was probably one of the few runners that came from Tokyo - represent!
Also it was quite small ... about two heats per race ... and with no elite athletes ... thus I won.
In addition they have a masters division as well as a Junior HS class.
I'd say good for a time trial and a reason to go out for a lunch in Chiba (The outlet is very near).
What else is up ...
I got in Tokyo Marathon!! OH YEA BABY (once again irony)
I am not excited at all, and not really sure if I should consider this good news or bad.
People do ask when I tell them that I run ... have you ever done a marathon? And my answer is always no ... I guess from March 2008 I will say yes.
In preparation for this, yesterday Monday I did a 30km with Jason in Yoyogi. My first 30km, in fact my first time running over 21km non stop.
Of course it was raining
We began at an "easy" pace of 4.25 ending with a 43 min first 10km. Moved up to under 4.10 pace for the next 10km ... I was about to enter unknown terrain.
After the first 20km it was all under 4 min pace and the last 5 km under 3.50 pace.
Easier than I thought ... but I got really tired. 30 km (2 hr 03 min) is no joke even if it is just a "tempo run" ... many months for my first marathon and I am already not looking forward to it.
fun fun fun running around and around yoyogi park at 8am on a holiday under the rain
... It actually was not that bad ... had a nice talk with Jason for the first 20 k ...
To get to the venue was harder than expected. It took me about an hour to reach Chiba station from Shinjuku and some 20 minutes to find the bus to take me there.
For anyone who decides to visit the park, take bus number 2.
I took part in 1500 and 800. The 1500 was scheduled for 11:20am and the 800 for 12:05. Lucky me (irony here) I was placed in the last heat in the 1500 so began near 11:30 and in the first heat of 800 which began at exactly 12:05.
The 1500
For some reason, here, like in my previous 1500 I had a bad start (I usually have a good start and a bad finish).
I wonder if it's because I began inside (both times in lane 2) or because of the false start (both had them).
The judge called us in ... on your marks ... GET SET ... poof air - the gun had no bullets ... oops sorry everyone take a step back.
On your marks - get set - bam ... I find myself in the back of the pack.
First 200's were slow, probably around 35 ... catched some runners and placed myself 2nd before entering the curve again. Lap split 1.08 ... slow for a first lap.
Everyone kept their place for the next 50 meters. Nobody making any moves.
Decided to spice things up and took the lead ... 2nd lap split 1.08 again ... slow but at least at an even pace.
Still first with nobody to pull me along ... third lap split again 1.08.
Finished first with a 4.15.6 or so. My first official win in Japan, but far from a PB.
The 800
It took me about 10 minutes to pick my stuff from the 1500 start line, catch a breathe and change into jogging shirt. It took me another 15 minutes to cool down and stretch for a bit.
10 minutes to go before the 800 start and I was dead tired.
I was running this pretty much as an interval as there was no way I was getting a PB ... but I did not want to finish last.
BAM! The race began and I took a comfortable 3rd position keeping the 1st place on sight. First lap a not so comfortable 1.05. The first place 4 seconds ahead seemed to by dying by the second. Began my move with 250 meters to go. Got in 2nd and went took the lead with 50 meters to go winning with a 2.09 (I only won my heat though ... placed 5th in general).
Negative splits ... good run.
For anyone looking into taking part in this event next year, the race is very local. I was probably one of the few runners that came from Tokyo - represent!
Also it was quite small ... about two heats per race ... and with no elite athletes ... thus I won.
In addition they have a masters division as well as a Junior HS class.
I'd say good for a time trial and a reason to go out for a lunch in Chiba (The outlet is very near).
What else is up ...
I got in Tokyo Marathon!! OH YEA BABY (once again irony)
I am not excited at all, and not really sure if I should consider this good news or bad.
People do ask when I tell them that I run ... have you ever done a marathon? And my answer is always no ... I guess from March 2008 I will say yes.
In preparation for this, yesterday Monday I did a 30km with Jason in Yoyogi. My first 30km, in fact my first time running over 21km non stop.
Of course it was raining
We began at an "easy" pace of 4.25 ending with a 43 min first 10km. Moved up to under 4.10 pace for the next 10km ... I was about to enter unknown terrain.
After the first 20km it was all under 4 min pace and the last 5 km under 3.50 pace.
Easier than I thought ... but I got really tired. 30 km (2 hr 03 min) is no joke even if it is just a "tempo run" ... many months for my first marathon and I am already not looking forward to it.
fun fun fun running around and around yoyogi park at 8am on a holiday under the rain
... It actually was not that bad ... had a nice talk with Jason for the first 20 k ...
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
September running: Injury, lazyness ... no good
September was a month of low mileage due to lazyness, races and on the last week, injury.
I did manage to finally get a 5km PB, although not under 16 minutes, a PB is still a PB.
Planning on doing 450 km in October as preparation for Ageo Half Marathon.
Below are this month's numbers.
September
1.- Rest
2.- Track race at Kounosu (1500): 4.13.9
3.- Jog 17 km
4.- Jog 17 km
5.- Jog 18 km
6.- Rest
7.- Morning: Swim 2000 mts
Afternoon: 6 x 400 - 90 sec 200 mt recovery jog
1.10 - 1.08 - 1.10 - 1.08 - 1.09 - 1.08
3 x 200 - 60 sec 200 mt recovery jog: Total 15km
32 - 33 - 30
8.- Rest
9.- Komazawa Aquathlon (300 swim - 4.3 km run)
Afternoon jog: Total 18km
10.- Rest
11.- Rest
12.- (1600+1000) x 3 - abt. 2.10 min 400 mt recovery jog
5.10 - 3.08 - 5.09 - 3.15 - 5.17 - 3.05
13.- Jog 18 km
14.- Jog 15 km
15.- Rest
16.- 5 km Tempo Run: 17.40 - Total 14 km
17.- Hill workout- bounds / Jog - Total 17 km
18.- Rest
19.- 3 x 1000 - 2 min 400 mt recovery jog
3.06 - 3.07 - 3.06
5 minute break
4 x 400 - 2 min 400 mt recovery jog: Total 17km
1.12 - 1.09 - 1.11 - 1.07
20.- 1500 mt swim
21.- Jog 17 km @ 4.08 pace - Total 18 km
22.- Shibuya Aquathlon (300mt swim - 1500mt run)
23.- Rest due to injury
24.- 7 x 1000 - 90 sec 200 mt recovery jog: Total 17km
3.14 - 3.14 - 3.13 - 3.14 - 3.14 - 3.14 - 3.08
25.- Easy jog 15 km
26.- Rest due to injury
27.- Atomi 5 km time trial: 16.10 PB
28.- Bike 9 km + jog 15 km + bike 11 km
29.- Rest due to injury
30.- Rest due to injury
Total running: 281 km
Total swim: 4,100 meters
Total bike: 29 km
With the aquathlon season over I should be able to put in more running days (18 this month ... very very lame).
I guess that is all for this not so interesting post.
;-)
I did manage to finally get a 5km PB, although not under 16 minutes, a PB is still a PB.
Planning on doing 450 km in October as preparation for Ageo Half Marathon.
Below are this month's numbers.
September
1.- Rest
2.- Track race at Kounosu (1500): 4.13.9
3.- Jog 17 km
4.- Jog 17 km
5.- Jog 18 km
6.- Rest
7.- Morning: Swim 2000 mts
Afternoon: 6 x 400 - 90 sec 200 mt recovery jog
1.10 - 1.08 - 1.10 - 1.08 - 1.09 - 1.08
3 x 200 - 60 sec 200 mt recovery jog: Total 15km
32 - 33 - 30
8.- Rest
9.- Komazawa Aquathlon (300 swim - 4.3 km run)
Afternoon jog: Total 18km
10.- Rest
11.- Rest
12.- (1600+1000) x 3 - abt. 2.10 min 400 mt recovery jog
5.10 - 3.08 - 5.09 - 3.15 - 5.17 - 3.05
13.- Jog 18 km
14.- Jog 15 km
15.- Rest
16.- 5 km Tempo Run: 17.40 - Total 14 km
17.- Hill workout- bounds / Jog - Total 17 km
18.- Rest
19.- 3 x 1000 - 2 min 400 mt recovery jog
3.06 - 3.07 - 3.06
5 minute break
4 x 400 - 2 min 400 mt recovery jog: Total 17km
1.12 - 1.09 - 1.11 - 1.07
20.- 1500 mt swim
21.- Jog 17 km @ 4.08 pace - Total 18 km
22.- Shibuya Aquathlon (300mt swim - 1500mt run)
23.- Rest due to injury
24.- 7 x 1000 - 90 sec 200 mt recovery jog: Total 17km
3.14 - 3.14 - 3.13 - 3.14 - 3.14 - 3.14 - 3.08
25.- Easy jog 15 km
26.- Rest due to injury
27.- Atomi 5 km time trial: 16.10 PB
28.- Bike 9 km + jog 15 km + bike 11 km
29.- Rest due to injury
30.- Rest due to injury
Total running: 281 km
Total swim: 4,100 meters
Total bike: 29 km
With the aquathlon season over I should be able to put in more running days (18 this month ... very very lame).
I guess that is all for this not so interesting post.
;-)
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Shibuya Aquathlon: The end of the curse
On Saturday 22nd I took part in Shibuya Aquathlon. The third part of the Setagaya Aquathlon tournament.
This race took place in the 25 meter pool of the Shibuya sport center near Hatagaya Station. The distance: 300 meter swim + 1500 meter run.
This time I wouldn't let bad luck or bad performance defeat me. I woke up early and arrived 2 hours before my race, giving me enough time to warm up and stretch.
Little did I know that university triathlon teams were also present, spicing up the competition.
The swim part was about to begin. Me and 5 guys lined up in front ready to fight (literally) for the first position. I swam hard for the first 20 meters and when I looked up I realized that I had closed too much and was about to pass by the left side of the first pole (person) when rules say I must pass on the outside (it's a square and we must swim on its perimeter).
I did what I had to do and sumerged under one of the guys popped up headbutting him and with an arm covered another guy. This created a mess in the corner ... in a few seconds I had taken down 3 guys and had only a few bruises on me (man am I bad ... yea right)
Not on purpose of course ... just an accident :)
The first position was mine.
The swim continued and I was literally ranned over by those 3 guys plus 2 others ... the party was over. (not on video unfortunately).
Out of the pool it was time to play my game.
I went pass by 4 guys capturing the 2nd place and was then passed by a guy ending up third in my heat. I was pretty satisfied with the run. The course was 3 laps on a zig zag loop making it very difficult to reach good speed.
I guess the swim could have been better.
I ended up 5th in general.
The first two guys were very fast. Even with an impeccable performance I don't think I would have had a chance to beat them.
I guess there is no way I can win the tournament this year ... next time I guess.
Video links below:
Swim part 1
Swim part 2
Run part 1
Run part 2
(Thank you Shoji-san for the pictures and video and cheering)
In other news
I ended with an inury after I paced a friend for a fast 1000 meters the evening after my race. I don't know how I did it, but after the run my calf felt strange.
I took Sunday off, practiced on Monday and Tuesday and now my calf feels even worst.
Hopefully it feels good enough tomorrow to run the 5km time trial with the Atomi club.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
The weather
The weather in this country is terrible ... why? Because there are four seasons.
In Lima it is always fall / spring kind of weather. It never goes below 11 and definitely never goes above 30. However in Tokyo this summer it went over 40 and in winter it can go a couple of degrees below 0. In addition to that we have rain, (non of that in Lima), wind, super humidity and typhoons.
Doing sports under this conditions is a real challenge.
Recently I went through a general body check up to make sure my protein, blood cells, calories, and other data were all in order. Apparently I was taking a little too many naps and that got some people here concerned.
Just like I thought: I had a perfect health. The doctor was really surprised that a person with such perfect data existed still in the world.
Why the naps then? Well it's too hot in June, July, August and September and too cold in November, December, January and February. I guess once I get used to it in some 10 years things will be fine.
Something worth sharing I got from the hospital was the secret to a long life:
Low salt
Omit sugar
No smoking
Good sleep
Low fat
Increase of interests
Fiber
Exercise
In Lima it is always fall / spring kind of weather. It never goes below 11 and definitely never goes above 30. However in Tokyo this summer it went over 40 and in winter it can go a couple of degrees below 0. In addition to that we have rain, (non of that in Lima), wind, super humidity and typhoons.
Doing sports under this conditions is a real challenge.
Recently I went through a general body check up to make sure my protein, blood cells, calories, and other data were all in order. Apparently I was taking a little too many naps and that got some people here concerned.
Just like I thought: I had a perfect health. The doctor was really surprised that a person with such perfect data existed still in the world.
Why the naps then? Well it's too hot in June, July, August and September and too cold in November, December, January and February. I guess once I get used to it in some 10 years things will be fine.
Something worth sharing I got from the hospital was the secret to a long life:
Low salt
Omit sugar
No smoking
Good sleep
Low fat
Increase of interests
Fiber
Exercise
Friday, September 14, 2007
Komazawa Aquathlon: The aquathlon curse continues
Three weeks three races.Sunday 9th was the 2nd part of the Setagaya Aquathlon tournament. This time a much bigger event and of course a lot more competitive.
It was held in Komazawa park. The swim (300 meters) in the olympic outdoor pool and the run in the running course of the park (1 lap 2,150 meters ... total of two laps: 4.3km).
Many athletes attended, just in the men's group 106 people. All looked very well prepared and really professional, some wearing their full body swim suits and Iron Man swim caps.
If you read my previous report ... I already had 10 points in the tournament as I was 2nd place in Nihon Gakuen Aquathlon by less than 1 second (damn).
Yusuke (the guy I lost against) was taking part in this race as well.
Let's take a step back in time ...
The race began at 9:45 ... that is all I read in the paper I got ... I missed the part that said that registrations closed at 9:15. And waking up at 7am the one day I don't have to (I work 6 times a week) can be hard at times ... but I usually get away with just on time entries in this country. This time though they did not buy it ... "I am
sorry," they said, "you cannot participate".So I put on a sad face like the cat in shrek, and told them, "but I will win this race, how can't you let me participate...it's 9:30 I have 15 minutes".
So they made a brief meeting and decided to let me go ... but with the condition of no registration. If I won like I said it would not count.
I then went down to the meeting area and saw the competition and the amount of people ... man I thought ... this is going to be hard to proof.
The race:
Men were divided in 3 groups ... each group with about 35 athletes ... after the last swimmer of each group finished then next group began. I was in group C (so actually I had like 30 - 40 minutes before the start ... JTU people are so damn strict) and Yusuke in group B ... with no registration my only goal was to beat his time.
We had a talk before the race and he was actually happy that I missed the registration as now he had big winning chances.
Groups A and B looked really strong. The swimmers were definitely triathletes and fast ones.
My group came up and the swim part began ... I sprinted the first 25 meters to not be caught in between people like before and got a comfortable second spot. The first place was really fast ... he was going at under 1.10 / 100 meters pace (if there were no turns). By the time he finished I still had 30 seconds left of swimming ... but had managed to keep the 2nd spot.
Takako said the swim was funny because some of the judges did not know I was swimming unregistered (thus no numbers on my arms) and were wondering and asking each other who is that swimmer there without number...how did he get in there!!!
The run began ... 4.3km that I was going to do hard this time.
Again I catched the 1st position within the first 500 meters this time keeping the pace ... catching people from group B every second that went by.
When I finally saw the finished line I made a final sprint to pass the bycicle guide and finish first (in my group at least). I ended with a YAPPARI KATTA to the judges faces.
You could see they were surprised ...
It was not over yet though...group B's winner had been Yusuke ... he got out of the pool 9th or something and once again had catched everyone.
We waited for the results and he was absolute champion of the race ... his time 21.01
My time ... not official ... 20.29 ...
So I am the non official meguro aquathlon champion and by FAR. I could have stopped to take a quick pee and still win the race.
It is ironic and sad ... finally got my first place in an individual event in Japan and it was a quite competitive one as well. However it did not count.
Well at least all the judges and the winner know who had the better time. Next year I guess.
Things learned:
1. Wake up early and get there ON TIME
2. I am quite good at this aquathlon thing, who knows maybe I could end up been a good triathlete ... won't do one this year unfortunately.
Oh if anyone is interested the awards to this are a trophy and a 2000 yen gift certificate.
For a video of the swim part click here
Monday, September 10, 2007
August running: back to the pool
I was determined to do a triathlon this year so I spent August preparing for it, swimming in the mornings and running in the afternoons. I think currently I am fit enough to finish an olympic distance triathlon in an acceptable time. Unfortunately I was not able to sign up, so no tri for me this year ... bummer.
I guess it is for the best as a tri might get me too tired for the upcoming racing season in the fall.
August
1.- Jog 17 km
2.- Jog 19 km
3.- Rest
4.- Jog 13 km
5.- Rest
6.- Jog 21 km
7.- Morning: 1900 meters swim
Afternoon: 6 x 400 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog: total 15km
1.06 - 1.06 - 1.06 - 1.06 - 1.06 - 1.06
5 min break
3 x 200 - 2 min 200mt recovery jog
28 - 29 - 30
8.- Morning: 1850 meters swim
Afternoon: 4 x 200 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog: total 15km
31 - 32 -32 - 31
9.- Tempo Run 10 km. Total 17 km
10.- Rest
11.- Jog 18 km
12.- Jog 17 km
13.- Morning: 2000 meters swim
Afternoon: Jog 13 km
14.- Cycling 40 km
15.- Morning: 1800 meters swim
Afternoon: Jog 15 km
16.- Morning: Jog 9 km
Afternoon: Jog 10 km
17.- Jog 10 km
18.- Rest
19.- Jog 17 km
20.- Jog 18 km
21.- Morning: 1900 meters swim
Afternoon: 5 x 1000 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog: total 15km
3.09 - 3.09 - 3.10 - 3.13 - 3.10
22.- Morning: 1850 meters swim
Afternoon: Jog 17 km
23.- Jog 17 km
24.- Morning: Jog 12 km
Afternoon: 1200 meters swim
25.- Rest
26.- Nihon Gakuen Aquathlon : 11.54 - 2nd place
27.- 11 x 200 - 60 sec 200mt recovery jog: total 13km
32 - 33 - 33 - 32 - 32 -32 - 32 - 32 - 31 - 32 - 29
28.-Morning: 1650 meters swim
Afternoon: Jog 20 km
29.- 5km TT - called it a day on 4.2km ... too tired: total 16km
30.- Rest
31.- Morning: 2200 meters swim
Afternoon: Jog 24 km
Total running : 372 km
Total swim : 16.7 km
Total bike : 40 km
*During most of my swims I did intervals of 5 x 100 at 1.28 pace
I guess it is for the best as a tri might get me too tired for the upcoming racing season in the fall.
August
1.- Jog 17 km
2.- Jog 19 km
3.- Rest
4.- Jog 13 km
5.- Rest
6.- Jog 21 km
7.- Morning: 1900 meters swim
Afternoon: 6 x 400 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog: total 15km
1.06 - 1.06 - 1.06 - 1.06 - 1.06 - 1.06
5 min break
3 x 200 - 2 min 200mt recovery jog
28 - 29 - 30
8.- Morning: 1850 meters swim
Afternoon: 4 x 200 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog: total 15km
31 - 32 -32 - 31
9.- Tempo Run 10 km. Total 17 km
10.- Rest
11.- Jog 18 km
12.- Jog 17 km
13.- Morning: 2000 meters swim
Afternoon: Jog 13 km
14.- Cycling 40 km
15.- Morning: 1800 meters swim
Afternoon: Jog 15 km
16.- Morning: Jog 9 km
Afternoon: Jog 10 km
17.- Jog 10 km
18.- Rest
19.- Jog 17 km
20.- Jog 18 km
21.- Morning: 1900 meters swim
Afternoon: 5 x 1000 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog: total 15km
3.09 - 3.09 - 3.10 - 3.13 - 3.10
22.- Morning: 1850 meters swim
Afternoon: Jog 17 km
23.- Jog 17 km
24.- Morning: Jog 12 km
Afternoon: 1200 meters swim
25.- Rest
26.- Nihon Gakuen Aquathlon : 11.54 - 2nd place
27.- 11 x 200 - 60 sec 200mt recovery jog: total 13km
32 - 33 - 33 - 32 - 32 -32 - 32 - 32 - 31 - 32 - 29
28.-Morning: 1650 meters swim
Afternoon: Jog 20 km
29.- 5km TT - called it a day on 4.2km ... too tired: total 16km
30.- Rest
31.- Morning: 2200 meters swim
Afternoon: Jog 24 km
Total running : 372 km
Total swim : 16.7 km
Total bike : 40 km
*During most of my swims I did intervals of 5 x 100 at 1.28 pace
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Deadly Earthquake hits Peru
Some weeks ago various cities in Peru were affected by a 7.9 (ritcher scale) earthquake that shook the country violently for over 2 minutes.Over 500 dead, 1000 wounded, 35000 families with loses, 33000 homes destroyed. These are some of the numbers this disaster left.
Economists estimate it will cost the country over 250 million dollars to rebuild what was destroyed.
These deadly natural disasters occur often in countries like Japan and USA, unlike them however, Peru is not economically prepared to confront this situation.
A simple example ... for each household destroyed each family will get about $2000 (best case scenario, so says the news) in aid. $2000 dollars is suppose to help them rebuild what took their entire lives and savings to construct. That without mentioning the fact that these people have lost their jobs and after a few months will be forgotten by the government.
How can you help? The embassy of Peru in Tokyo has opened two accounts (with just 500 yen an entire family in Peru can eat all their meals ... the affected areas were very poor)
________________________________________________
BANCO DO BRASIL - TOKYO BRANCH ACCOUNT NUMBER: 314555 - 4 (NAME)SISMO PERU 2007 - EMBASSY OF PERU
___________________________________________
MIZUHO BANK - KAMATA BRANCH ACCOUNT NUMBER : 1195505 (NAME)PERU DAIJISHIN GIENKIN GUCHI - SISMO PERU 2007
.
I was thinking on organizing a charity race ... but have no idea where to begin. I guess with all the races going on this fall it might be hard to find a place available.
This is an article from Reuters from the day after the disaster. The exact numbers are larger.
Peru earthquake kills 450, bodies in streets
Peru earthquake kills 450, bodies in streets
By Jean Luis ArcePISCO, Peru, Aug 16 (Reuters) -
Peruvians pulled hundreds of dead from the rubble of homes and churches on Thursday and bodies piled up on street corners after a huge earthquake ravaged the country's central coast.
Firefighters, civil defense officials and the United Nations said about 450 were killed in the 8.0-magnitude quake on Wednesday night. Some 2,000 people were hurt and the death toll was expected to rise, with local media reporting more than 500 dead.
As rescuers scrambled through the debris in search of survivors, dazed residents guarded bodies on the street, unsure where to take them. Many of the victims were poor and were trapped after their traditional adobe-brick homes collapsed.
In the hard-hit town of Pisco, south of the capital Lima, at least 50 bodies were laid out in the main square, where a church caved in during a service.
"They had gone to the church for a mass to commemorate a dead loved one," said Enrique Gonzales, 48, sobbing as he searched for his wife and three sisters-in-law. "They never came back."
The rescue of a man from the ruins of the devastated church brought some hope to rescue teams battling into the night to find survivors amid the rubble.
The U.S. Geological Survey upgraded the quake's magnitude to 8.0 from an earlier 7.9 measurement, and powerful aftershocks rattled the country on Thursday.
Hospitals were overwhelmed with the injured and morgues with the dead, forcing Peruvians to place dead bodies pulled from crumbled mud-brick houses on city streets.
In the town of Chincha, wounded people lay on the floor in San Jose hospital, where walls were destroyed by the quake.
"We don't know what to do. I don't know where to hold a wake for her," Jose Flores, a boy about 12 years old, said as he stood near the body of his dead mother outside their destroyed home in the city 125 miles (200 km) south of Lima.
"The wall just came down and crushed her when I was outside," he said.
PRISON ESCAPE
Hundreds of prisoners ran out of Chincha's Tambo de Mora prison after the earthquake ripped the old building apart.
"The authorities couldn't do anything. It was really hard to control all the prisoners," said Manuel Aguilar, vice president of Peru's prison authority. He said 29 prisoners stayed behind.
In the San Juan de Dios hospital in Pisco, doctor Ricardo Cabrera said staff was struggling to cope with 200 wounded, more than 40 dead and no power.
Many people were left homeless around Pisco and Chincha, where the huge tremor was felt the strongest, cracking highways and cutting power and telephone lines.
The Red Cross said it would send planes with tents, blankets and other aid from Panama.
With a major highway ruined, Peruvian rescuers airlifted victims by helicopter and aircraft to hospitals in Lima. Officials appealed for blood donors to come forward so they could treat the injured.
President Alan Garcia visited rubble-strewn towns and sent condolences to the families of the quake's victims.
It was one of the worst natural disasters to hit Peru in the last century. In 1970, an earthquake killed an estimated 50,000 Peruvians in catastrophic avalanches of ice and mud that buried the town of Yungay.
The USGS said the quake on Wednesday was centered about 90 miles (145 km) southeast of Lima at a depth of around 25 miles (40 km) and was closely followed by nine aftershocks.
Peru is a leading minerals producer, but many of its major mines sit far away from the quake zone. The Cerro Lindo copper, zinc and lead mine near the zone suspended operations due to power cuts but its structures were not damaged.
In the central square of Lima, the Peruvian flag flew at half-mast as Garcia declared three days of national mourning.
Peruvians pulled hundreds of dead from the rubble of homes and churches on Thursday and bodies piled up on street corners after a huge earthquake ravaged the country's central coast.
Firefighters, civil defense officials and the United Nations said about 450 were killed in the 8.0-magnitude quake on Wednesday night. Some 2,000 people were hurt and the death toll was expected to rise, with local media reporting more than 500 dead.
As rescuers scrambled through the debris in search of survivors, dazed residents guarded bodies on the street, unsure where to take them. Many of the victims were poor and were trapped after their traditional adobe-brick homes collapsed.
In the hard-hit town of Pisco, south of the capital Lima, at least 50 bodies were laid out in the main square, where a church caved in during a service.
"They had gone to the church for a mass to commemorate a dead loved one," said Enrique Gonzales, 48, sobbing as he searched for his wife and three sisters-in-law. "They never came back."
The rescue of a man from the ruins of the devastated church brought some hope to rescue teams battling into the night to find survivors amid the rubble.
The U.S. Geological Survey upgraded the quake's magnitude to 8.0 from an earlier 7.9 measurement, and powerful aftershocks rattled the country on Thursday.
Hospitals were overwhelmed with the injured and morgues with the dead, forcing Peruvians to place dead bodies pulled from crumbled mud-brick houses on city streets.
In the town of Chincha, wounded people lay on the floor in San Jose hospital, where walls were destroyed by the quake.
"We don't know what to do. I don't know where to hold a wake for her," Jose Flores, a boy about 12 years old, said as he stood near the body of his dead mother outside their destroyed home in the city 125 miles (200 km) south of Lima.
"The wall just came down and crushed her when I was outside," he said.
PRISON ESCAPE
Hundreds of prisoners ran out of Chincha's Tambo de Mora prison after the earthquake ripped the old building apart.
"The authorities couldn't do anything. It was really hard to control all the prisoners," said Manuel Aguilar, vice president of Peru's prison authority. He said 29 prisoners stayed behind.
In the San Juan de Dios hospital in Pisco, doctor Ricardo Cabrera said staff was struggling to cope with 200 wounded, more than 40 dead and no power.
Many people were left homeless around Pisco and Chincha, where the huge tremor was felt the strongest, cracking highways and cutting power and telephone lines.
The Red Cross said it would send planes with tents, blankets and other aid from Panama.
With a major highway ruined, Peruvian rescuers airlifted victims by helicopter and aircraft to hospitals in Lima. Officials appealed for blood donors to come forward so they could treat the injured.
President Alan Garcia visited rubble-strewn towns and sent condolences to the families of the quake's victims.
It was one of the worst natural disasters to hit Peru in the last century. In 1970, an earthquake killed an estimated 50,000 Peruvians in catastrophic avalanches of ice and mud that buried the town of Yungay.
The USGS said the quake on Wednesday was centered about 90 miles (145 km) southeast of Lima at a depth of around 25 miles (40 km) and was closely followed by nine aftershocks.
Peru is a leading minerals producer, but many of its major mines sit far away from the quake zone. The Cerro Lindo copper, zinc and lead mine near the zone suspended operations due to power cuts but its structures were not damaged.
In the central square of Lima, the Peruvian flag flew at half-mast as Garcia declared three days of national mourning.
Monday, September 3, 2007
Bullied by High School kids: Race report
This race report begins with the jumbi (japanese for preparation) of the previous day.
Saturday/Sunday schedule:
10am - 5pm: Work
6pm - 7pm: Shopping
8:30pm - 10:30pm: Dinner/Flamenco show and of course drinks.
12:00 - 3:30am: Farewell party with lots of crazyness and of course drinks.
7am - 9am: Watch the Marathon on TV
12:45: The train I am on stops for 20 minutes due to an accident.
1:30pm: My race !!! (biggest hangover/body pain/nausea ever).
In search for a 1500 meter PB I signed up for a race in Kounosu City (Saitama). It was a local race in which most participants were high school / university club students.
I was placed in the first heat (usually 1st heat is the slowest but in this event they did it the other way around).
I got there with just enough time to jog 5 minutes, stretch and compete ... I had the biggest hangover ever.
The race was about to begin and we lined up waiting for the GO. Wierdly we had a false start ... high schooler's pfff.
The first 200 meters were terrible. I consider my start one of my strengths, but in this race it was so slow. I guess I was still sleeping as I found myself in the very back of the pack running at 5km pace. I tried to move forward after the curve but I kept been pushed around by the evil high schoolers.
I have never been touched so much during a race (yea that doesn't sound right). These kids would lock me up in a box, grab my waist from behind and kick the sole of my shoes.
At a certain point I managed to grab 2nd place but felt too tired from all the speed changes to take the lead.
Finally the last lap came ... looked at my stop watch and finally woke up.
I came in 4th in my heat, 6th out of the 5 heats.
No PB, but a good race considering the conditions I was in and my bad start.
I think that if I can add the start from my previous races and the end of this race I can manage to go under 4.10, which would make this a successful year ... next 1500 race scheduled for October ... gambarou.
Click here for a video of this race
Saturday/Sunday schedule:
10am - 5pm: Work
6pm - 7pm: Shopping
8:30pm - 10:30pm: Dinner/Flamenco show and of course drinks.
12:00 - 3:30am: Farewell party with lots of crazyness and of course drinks.
7am - 9am: Watch the Marathon on TV
12:45: The train I am on stops for 20 minutes due to an accident.
1:30pm: My race !!! (biggest hangover/body pain/nausea ever).
In search for a 1500 meter PB I signed up for a race in Kounosu City (Saitama). It was a local race in which most participants were high school / university club students.
I was placed in the first heat (usually 1st heat is the slowest but in this event they did it the other way around).
I got there with just enough time to jog 5 minutes, stretch and compete ... I had the biggest hangover ever.
The race was about to begin and we lined up waiting for the GO. Wierdly we had a false start ... high schooler's pfff.
The first 200 meters were terrible. I consider my start one of my strengths, but in this race it was so slow. I guess I was still sleeping as I found myself in the very back of the pack running at 5km pace. I tried to move forward after the curve but I kept been pushed around by the evil high schoolers.
I have never been touched so much during a race (yea that doesn't sound right). These kids would lock me up in a box, grab my waist from behind and kick the sole of my shoes.
At a certain point I managed to grab 2nd place but felt too tired from all the speed changes to take the lead.
Finally the last lap came ... looked at my stop watch and finally woke up.
I came in 4th in my heat, 6th out of the 5 heats.
No PB, but a good race considering the conditions I was in and my bad start.
I think that if I can add the start from my previous races and the end of this race I can manage to go under 4.10, which would make this a successful year ... next 1500 race scheduled for October ... gambarou.
Click here for a video of this race
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Nihon Gakuen Aquathlon
Last summer, while looking for new races to participate in I discovered the sport Aquathlon. A triathlon without the cycling part. This got me very interested as runners usually do not swim and swimmers usually do not run (competitively that is), I however do (did) both.
I was only able to put in a few swim sessions in and 6 years of no swimming were really noticeable.
I got 2nd place in my first aquathlon (a really small race in Hachijoji) and 5th the second time (a bigger event in Komazawa).
This year I was not going to miss out on these fun events and signed up on the Setagaya Aquathlon championships: A tournament composed of 4 aquathlons. Nihon Gakuen, Meguro, Shibuya and Setagaya.
Top 10 of each event get points, the tournament winner is of course whoever gets the most points.
Race Report
Race Name: Nihon Gakuen Aquathlon
Location: A few minutes from Medaimae station on the Keio line (click for map)
Price: 1000 yen
Distance: 300 meter swim / 1500 meter run .... really short!!
Age groups: men under 39, men over, women and elementary kids.
Sponsor: Nike and artsports
Prize: For the first place a pair of running nike shoes of your choice (no flats it seems).
As this was my first aquathlon I wasn't really looking for much other than warm-up, place high and have fun .... LIE ... I went there to win it (I did not know what the prize was).
In the amateur aquathlon scene of Japan it is very hard to find someone who is fast in the water and on the ground. The best you can get are triathletes who are usually great on the swim but not as great on a short runs.
This race had a 1500 meter run AKA my favorite and for the time been, best event. The swim part was not crazy long and I was sure I could fight my way through.
10 minutes before the start all participants in my age group gathered around the pool to prepare their shoes, etc for the transition. The guy next to me asked me if I was a track athlete, to which I replied, "Yes, in fact my favorite race is the 1500, I can run it in about 4.10" (a little white lie right there). He said, "oh really? I run too, I run 1500 in about 4.09, but I cannot swim at all."
If there was a guy to beat it was him ...
We all got in the pool and the race began ... man was it a tough swim. Punches, kicks, grabbing, pulling. Some 20 guys in a 25 meter pool trying to get the first position, this was the obvious result. After the first 30 meters I was in the front pack with 5 swimmers and could focus more on my stroke ... peace did not last long. Three swimmers infront began to slow down after the first 75 meters and at the same time we were catching up to the slow people. Once again I was trapped between punches, kicks, etc.
Why would you swim breast stroke during a swim meet??? In a lane with 15 guys all around you ... breast stroke kicks can be a dangerous weapon.
By 200 meters I was not sure which position I was anymore, I was not even sure how many laps were left.
300 meters were done and I left the pool 2nd and in one piece ... the 1st place, a triathlete, with a 10 second lead(I had a super slow transition after).
The swim was actually about 350 meters as we had to swim the perimeter of the pool.
The 1500 (actually 1600) run began: 2 small loops around the school ground and one big lap covering all of the school ground.
Within the first minute I quickly catched and passed the first place. By 500 meters I had a huge lead with nobody to be seen behind me.
Now ... I began slow ... after a 300 meters swim I needed a few seconds to catch my breathe. Why oh why didn't I bring up the pace to 1500 meter speed?? Why didn't I take it up to at least 3000 meter racing pace? I tured around and there was nobody, but does that mean I can just jog and wave to the crowd taking for granted my victory? I have never seen the leading man raise his arms during a full marathon race at the 25 km mark.
I am no olympic runner ... these races are my own personal olympics and I should try 100% in all of them (unless there is some tactical / experimental plan going on). What was I thinking ... or to better state that ... why wasn't I thinking!
Back to the race.
400 to go I turn around and I see the track runner a few meters behind me coming at full speed. By the time I was running at 1500 race pace he was next to me. 100 meter to go he was infront of me. 50 meter to go I took the lead ... 10 meters to go he catched up, and well he is a faster runner and of course won by a few centimers.
I had a huge lead on this guy ... like having a 10 km lead during a marathon ...
5 days after and this race is still in my head. How did I finish second place?
I will have another chance. He will race meguro on September 9th. Once again I will have a 40 second lead (maybe more as the swim will be in a 50 meter pool). The run will be 4 km so he will have a better advantage in the run.
I guess I should try to concentrate on getting the points more than taking it personal ... And to remember to focus on my stroke rather than moving my arms quickly.
For amateur athletes these small races are their own personal big events and should be treated as such ... A cocky attitude like the one on Sunday will only give me disappoinments.
Click here for the swim part of the race
Anyways ... I really recommend this race. The distance is short enough for beginners and there is not much competition. Also the place is easy to get to. Most importantly the first place gets a pair of nike running shoes of their choice.
Results:
Men 40 up (1st - 3rd)= 12:23 / 13:00 / 13:41
Women= 13:06 / 13:24 / 14:58
Mine: 11:54
I was only able to put in a few swim sessions in and 6 years of no swimming were really noticeable.
I got 2nd place in my first aquathlon (a really small race in Hachijoji) and 5th the second time (a bigger event in Komazawa).
This year I was not going to miss out on these fun events and signed up on the Setagaya Aquathlon championships: A tournament composed of 4 aquathlons. Nihon Gakuen, Meguro, Shibuya and Setagaya.
Top 10 of each event get points, the tournament winner is of course whoever gets the most points.
Race Report
Race Name: Nihon Gakuen Aquathlon
Location: A few minutes from Medaimae station on the Keio line (click for map)
Price: 1000 yen
Distance: 300 meter swim / 1500 meter run .... really short!!
Age groups: men under 39, men over, women and elementary kids.
Sponsor: Nike and artsports
Prize: For the first place a pair of running nike shoes of your choice (no flats it seems).
As this was my first aquathlon I wasn't really looking for much other than warm-up, place high and have fun .... LIE ... I went there to win it (I did not know what the prize was).
In the amateur aquathlon scene of Japan it is very hard to find someone who is fast in the water and on the ground. The best you can get are triathletes who are usually great on the swim but not as great on a short runs.
This race had a 1500 meter run AKA my favorite and for the time been, best event. The swim part was not crazy long and I was sure I could fight my way through.
10 minutes before the start all participants in my age group gathered around the pool to prepare their shoes, etc for the transition. The guy next to me asked me if I was a track athlete, to which I replied, "Yes, in fact my favorite race is the 1500, I can run it in about 4.10" (a little white lie right there). He said, "oh really? I run too, I run 1500 in about 4.09, but I cannot swim at all."
If there was a guy to beat it was him ...
We all got in the pool and the race began ... man was it a tough swim. Punches, kicks, grabbing, pulling. Some 20 guys in a 25 meter pool trying to get the first position, this was the obvious result. After the first 30 meters I was in the front pack with 5 swimmers and could focus more on my stroke ... peace did not last long. Three swimmers infront began to slow down after the first 75 meters and at the same time we were catching up to the slow people. Once again I was trapped between punches, kicks, etc.
Why would you swim breast stroke during a swim meet??? In a lane with 15 guys all around you ... breast stroke kicks can be a dangerous weapon.
By 200 meters I was not sure which position I was anymore, I was not even sure how many laps were left.
300 meters were done and I left the pool 2nd and in one piece ... the 1st place, a triathlete, with a 10 second lead(I had a super slow transition after).
The swim was actually about 350 meters as we had to swim the perimeter of the pool.
The 1500 (actually 1600) run began: 2 small loops around the school ground and one big lap covering all of the school ground.
Within the first minute I quickly catched and passed the first place. By 500 meters I had a huge lead with nobody to be seen behind me.
Now ... I began slow ... after a 300 meters swim I needed a few seconds to catch my breathe. Why oh why didn't I bring up the pace to 1500 meter speed?? Why didn't I take it up to at least 3000 meter racing pace? I tured around and there was nobody, but does that mean I can just jog and wave to the crowd taking for granted my victory? I have never seen the leading man raise his arms during a full marathon race at the 25 km mark.
I am no olympic runner ... these races are my own personal olympics and I should try 100% in all of them (unless there is some tactical / experimental plan going on). What was I thinking ... or to better state that ... why wasn't I thinking!
Back to the race.
400 to go I turn around and I see the track runner a few meters behind me coming at full speed. By the time I was running at 1500 race pace he was next to me. 100 meter to go he was infront of me. 50 meter to go I took the lead ... 10 meters to go he catched up, and well he is a faster runner and of course won by a few centimers.
I had a huge lead on this guy ... like having a 10 km lead during a marathon ...
5 days after and this race is still in my head. How did I finish second place?
I will have another chance. He will race meguro on September 9th. Once again I will have a 40 second lead (maybe more as the swim will be in a 50 meter pool). The run will be 4 km so he will have a better advantage in the run.
I guess I should try to concentrate on getting the points more than taking it personal ... And to remember to focus on my stroke rather than moving my arms quickly.
For amateur athletes these small races are their own personal big events and should be treated as such ... A cocky attitude like the one on Sunday will only give me disappoinments.
Click here for the swim part of the race
Anyways ... I really recommend this race. The distance is short enough for beginners and there is not much competition. Also the place is easy to get to. Most importantly the first place gets a pair of nike running shoes of their choice.
Results:
Men 40 up (1st - 3rd)= 12:23 / 13:00 / 13:41
Women= 13:06 / 13:24 / 14:58
Mine: 11:54
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Running in July
Hot and humid ... running during the summer is horrible in this country. Peru can get quite humid but the weather here is sticky and even running late at night can be uncomfortable.
I spent the month of July doing track sessions and long runs with Patrick (a 3.45, 1500mt runner). Although we only spent a few weeks training together I have to admit I learned a lot from him, especially regarding pace during training. He would make 1000 mt intervals while I was doing 600 - 800 mt intervals. The idea was for me to pace him ... haha the first couple of times it was hilarious.
"Omar what are you doing!!" I could here behind me.
"Omar why are you going too fast!! no no you are going too slow now" (all this in the starting 50 meters).
"Oh my God, you are a yo-yo, pace up-down, up-down" (all while running at 3 min/km pace).
By the end of the month I could finally hold my pace ... sometimes.
July
*most if not all of the jogs are between 4.05 and 4.25 pace
1.- Jog 18 km
2.- Jog 19km
3.- 3 x 1200 - 4.30 break : total 13 km
3.38 - 3.37 - 3.32
4.- Jog 18 km
5.- Rest
6.- 5 x 400 - 60 sec 200mt recovery jog : total 18 km
1.08 - 1.08 - 1.07 - 1.10 - 1.07
7.- Easy jog 5 km
8.- Jog 15 km
9.- 6 x 400 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog : total 20km
1.04 - 1.05 - 1.04 - 1.05 - 1.05 - 1.05
4.30 break
4 x 200 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog
29 - 30 - 30 - 29
10.- Jog 15 km
11.- 4 x 800 - 2min 200mt recovery jog : total 17km
2.24 - 2.21 - 2.23 - 2.24
5 min break
4 x 200 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog
31 - 31 - 31 - 31
12.- Jog 15 km
13.- Jog 15 km
14.- Rest
15.- Jog 10 km
16.- Track race at Yumenoshima : 4.13.31 PB
17.- Jog 17 km
18.- Easy ladder workout at 1.15 pace all the way
800 (2.28) - 1200 (3.46) - 1600 (5.03) - 1200 (3.45) - 800 (2.26) - 400 (1.01)
19.- Rest
20.- Jog 18 km
21.- Jog 10 km
22.- Jog 13 km
23.- Rest
24.- Jog 15 km
25.- 10km jog in the morning and 10 km jog in the afternoon
26.- 5 km time trial : 16.19.50 PB by 0.4 seconds
27.- Morning: 1500mt easy swim
Afternoon: 10 x 20 - 60 sec 200mt recovery jog : total 15 km
35 - 36 - 36 - 36 - 36 -35 - 34 - 35 - 35 - 29
28.- Jog 10 km
29.- Jog 24 km
30.- Jog 15 km
31.- 5 x 1000 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog : total 16 km
3.13 - 3.11 - 3.13 - 3.10 - 3.00
Total km : 404km
Total swim : 1.5 km (a start for the upcoming aquathlon season and hopefully my first triathlon)
I was really satisfied with my track workouts. I think soon I will be able to run a mile under 4.20 and a 5 km under 16 minutes.
I spent the month of July doing track sessions and long runs with Patrick (a 3.45, 1500mt runner). Although we only spent a few weeks training together I have to admit I learned a lot from him, especially regarding pace during training. He would make 1000 mt intervals while I was doing 600 - 800 mt intervals. The idea was for me to pace him ... haha the first couple of times it was hilarious.
"Omar what are you doing!!" I could here behind me.
"Omar why are you going too fast!! no no you are going too slow now" (all this in the starting 50 meters).
"Oh my God, you are a yo-yo, pace up-down, up-down" (all while running at 3 min/km pace).
By the end of the month I could finally hold my pace ... sometimes.
July
*most if not all of the jogs are between 4.05 and 4.25 pace
1.- Jog 18 km
2.- Jog 19km
3.- 3 x 1200 - 4.30 break : total 13 km
3.38 - 3.37 - 3.32
4.- Jog 18 km
5.- Rest
6.- 5 x 400 - 60 sec 200mt recovery jog : total 18 km
1.08 - 1.08 - 1.07 - 1.10 - 1.07
7.- Easy jog 5 km
8.- Jog 15 km
9.- 6 x 400 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog : total 20km
1.04 - 1.05 - 1.04 - 1.05 - 1.05 - 1.05
4.30 break
4 x 200 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog
29 - 30 - 30 - 29
10.- Jog 15 km
11.- 4 x 800 - 2min 200mt recovery jog : total 17km
2.24 - 2.21 - 2.23 - 2.24
5 min break
4 x 200 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog
31 - 31 - 31 - 31
12.- Jog 15 km
13.- Jog 15 km
14.- Rest
15.- Jog 10 km
16.- Track race at Yumenoshima : 4.13.31 PB
17.- Jog 17 km
18.- Easy ladder workout at 1.15 pace all the way
800 (2.28) - 1200 (3.46) - 1600 (5.03) - 1200 (3.45) - 800 (2.26) - 400 (1.01)
19.- Rest
20.- Jog 18 km
21.- Jog 10 km
22.- Jog 13 km
23.- Rest
24.- Jog 15 km
25.- 10km jog in the morning and 10 km jog in the afternoon
26.- 5 km time trial : 16.19.50 PB by 0.4 seconds
27.- Morning: 1500mt easy swim
Afternoon: 10 x 20 - 60 sec 200mt recovery jog : total 15 km
35 - 36 - 36 - 36 - 36 -35 - 34 - 35 - 35 - 29
28.- Jog 10 km
29.- Jog 24 km
30.- Jog 15 km
31.- 5 x 1000 - 90 sec 200mt recovery jog : total 16 km
3.13 - 3.11 - 3.13 - 3.10 - 3.00
Total km : 404km
Total swim : 1.5 km (a start for the upcoming aquathlon season and hopefully my first triathlon)
I was really satisfied with my track workouts. I think soon I will be able to run a mile under 4.20 and a 5 km under 16 minutes.
Looking forward for the summer to be over. I have a busy race calendar this September / October where I will take part in about 7 races.
Patrick's (on the left) good bye night
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Training begins : June
For those who have never been to Japan, summer here can get very hot, and this season was no different. It seems that Al Gore made sure this summer was even hotter ... and with less rain in Tokyo during the first months. I couldn't let that stop me though ... training had to begin if I wanted to become a good runner. Hora de dejarse de huevadas.
June
1.- Jog 13 km
2.- Jog 10km
3.- Rest
4.- Jog 18 km
5.- Jog 13 km
6.- Jog 20 km
7.- Jog 15 km
8.- Jog 13 km
9.- Rest
10.- Jog 20 km
11.- 2 x (4x400) - 60 sec 200mt recovery jog - 4min in between : 15km total
1.06 - 1.07 - 1.07 - 1.07 / 1.08 - 1.08 - 1.09 - 1.08
12.- 9 x 300 - 60 sec 100mt recovery jog : 17km total
54 - 54 - 53 -53 - 52 - 53 - 52 - 54 - 52
13.- 4 x 200 - 2 min 200mt recovery jog : Total 18km
29 - 30 - 28 - 28
14.- Rest
15.- 10 x 200 - 60 sec 200mt recovery jog : Total 16km
31 - 32 - 32 - 32 - 32 - 31 - 32 - 31 - 31 - 31
16.- Rest
17.- SAIKO ROAD RACE - 20.5km ... no comments terrible results
18.- Jog 21 km (at 4.10 min pace as recovery jog from my shameful run the previous day)
19.- 600 (1.46) - 400 (1.11) - 600 (1.47) - 700 (2.07) - 600 (1.47) - 800 (2.25)
rest a bit and 5 x 200 - 2 min 200mt recovery jog
33 - 34 - 32 - 32 - 30 (total run 17km)
20.- Jog 24 km
21.- Jog 19 km
22.- 6 x 1000 - 60 sec 200mt recovery jog : Total 16 km
3.29 - 3.21 - 3.20 - 3.18 - 3.20 - 3.14
23.- Rest
24.- Jog 19 km
25.- Jog 16 km
26.- 5 x 1000 - 4 min recovery : Total 15 km
2.59 - 3.00 - 3.01 - 3.40 (1200) - 2.57
27.- Jog 18 km
28.- Jog 13 km
29.- 5 x 400 + 4 x 400 - 55 sec 200mt recovery jog / 3 min break : total 15 km
1.10 - 1.09 - 1.10 - 1.11 - 1.10 / 1.11 - 1.11 - 1.11 - 1.10
30.- Rest
Total km ran : 409 km
Why the sudden mileage up? Well I have to thank that to my friend Brett who constantly brought up the fact that if my mileage didn't go up there would be no more PB's for me. Also to Patrick and Jason, two really fast buddies who have helped me with my training.
Am starting to feel the pain though ...
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
2007 running: January to May
After this post I will have one more post left (June / July running) and I will have catched up with time. I will then be able to write at the end of the month or after an event, etc.
The first 5 months of this year I had a slight improvement. I ran a total of 1,189km, averaging 238km per month.
Competitevely things kicked out on the right foot. I took part in 7 events (3 ekidens), achieving personal bests in 4 of them. Out of the 3 ekidens (Japanese road relays) my team won 2, mostly thanks to my fast teammates. Although I was absent during the ceremony, I got my first gold medal in this country.
Another thing to note is that I finally broke the 300km barrier, running 311km in May.
Some highlights of 2007
Jason and I running 1500mts at the Setagaya spring track meet. One of my favorite races till now ... wish I had it on video.
Jason, Brett, Patrick and I ... a truly international team ... winners of the 2007 Inagi Ekiden.
The first 5 months of this year I had a slight improvement. I ran a total of 1,189km, averaging 238km per month.
Competitevely things kicked out on the right foot. I took part in 7 events (3 ekidens), achieving personal bests in 4 of them. Out of the 3 ekidens (Japanese road relays) my team won 2, mostly thanks to my fast teammates. Although I was absent during the ceremony, I got my first gold medal in this country.
Another thing to note is that I finally broke the 300km barrier, running 311km in May.
Some highlights of 2007
Jason and I running 1500mts at the Setagaya spring track meet. One of my favorite races till now ... wish I had it on video.
Jason, Brett, Patrick and I ... a truly international team ... winners of the 2007 Inagi Ekiden.
Monday, August 20, 2007
The beginning: 2006 running
2006 was a year of many surprises and changes. In sports, it was my warm up.
I did come 4th out of 1800 in a half marathon and 5th in an elite aquathlon competition so do not laugh too hard ... do feel free to laugh though.
However I improved all of my high school personal bests and realized that between the level of competition of Peru and Japan lies a HUGE GAP.
Then 2007 came, but that is for another post as I have to make this an efficient day by getting offline.
(In the picture me and my sister at 2006 Kumagaya Sakura half marathon)
I ran about 2,164 km throughout the entire year. It may look like a big number, but any experienced runner knows that it is insignificant mileage if you are looking for something more than just burning fat. My monthly average was of 180km, again poor compared to the 600+km some elite athletes put in.
Most of this mileage was done in jog sessions going from 9km short runs to 20km long runs. A few speed and interval sessions were done at the end of the year, but not enough to have meaningful results.
I was still new in town and was more concerned in the night life scene more than the healthy sport scene this country has to offer.
I did though compete a lot.
It may sound surprising, but I am not a fan of training. Running around, doing nothing other than think and move my legs ... I actually find it a bit boring. Not to mention losing weight (I really wish I could gain weight). In the other hand, I love competing and winning. So I find myself in a dilemma. To train or not to train ... my love for victory is stronger so I force myself to practice.
In 2006 I took part in 19 competitions.
Out of these 19 competitions I won: 0 (jaja que cagada!!).
I did come 4th out of 1800 in a half marathon and 5th in an elite aquathlon competition so do not laugh too hard ... do feel free to laugh though.
However I improved all of my high school personal bests and realized that between the level of competition of Peru and Japan lies a HUGE GAP.
Then 2007 came, but that is for another post as I have to make this an efficient day by getting offline.
(In the picture me and my sister at 2006 Kumagaya Sakura half marathon)
A cold date during the hot summer
Yesterday Takako prepared a date for us. She took me to watch Friends on ice at the Yokohama skate center. I had no idea if it was going to be an exhibition, competition, free skate or ice show, but was really excited as I rarely get to go to a rink.
Friends on ice is an annual event in where former olympic, world and national ice skate champions show their routines as well as some new choreographies.
This year among the participants were:
1. Shizuka Arakawa
2006 Torino winter olympic gold medalist and 2004 world champion
2. Yuka Sato
World champion and 2 time Japanese national champion
3. Yukari Nakano
2007 Asian champion and GP final bronze medalist
4. Takeshi Honda
6 time Japanese national champion and 2 time world bronze medalist
5. Evan Lysacek
US national champion and 2 time world bronze medalist
6. John Baldwin and Rena Inoue
2 time US national champions
(by clicking on their name you can see a performance video of them)
There were about 10 other participants all of elite level. You can see more information about them by clicking on the friends on ice link at the beginning of the post.
It was really amazing for me to be so close to world level athletes (although in the winter I helped a marathon super star get back to his hotel in Tokyo lol) and watch them perform.
I probably spend an average of 90 minutes a day in sports, now in the summer vacation maybe about 3 hours. These guys probably put 6+ hours a day of training, gym, lectures, etc.
90 minutes require great sacrifice. Not only physically do you challenge yourself, but socially you have to restrain yourself from going go unforgettable parties, memorable events, important family gatherings, etc. 6+ hours a day is something to respect ... well of course sometimes you get money and fame ... but still, 4 times the sacrifice I put now ... I don't think I'd be able to do it. No tendria los huevos ... like they say in Spanish.
Anyways, the show was first class as well as the performers. I definitely recommend it.
We were not allowed to take pictures or record during the exhibition, however I was able to take a short clip of Shizuka Arakawa at the end of the evening (I almost slip at the end).
Click me
Friends on ice is an annual event in where former olympic, world and national ice skate champions show their routines as well as some new choreographies.
This year among the participants were:
1. Shizuka Arakawa
2006 Torino winter olympic gold medalist and 2004 world champion
2. Yuka Sato
World champion and 2 time Japanese national champion
3. Yukari Nakano
2007 Asian champion and GP final bronze medalist
4. Takeshi Honda
6 time Japanese national champion and 2 time world bronze medalist
5. Evan Lysacek
US national champion and 2 time world bronze medalist
6. John Baldwin and Rena Inoue
2 time US national champions
(by clicking on their name you can see a performance video of them)
There were about 10 other participants all of elite level. You can see more information about them by clicking on the friends on ice link at the beginning of the post.
It was really amazing for me to be so close to world level athletes (although in the winter I helped a marathon super star get back to his hotel in Tokyo lol) and watch them perform.
I probably spend an average of 90 minutes a day in sports, now in the summer vacation maybe about 3 hours. These guys probably put 6+ hours a day of training, gym, lectures, etc.
90 minutes require great sacrifice. Not only physically do you challenge yourself, but socially you have to restrain yourself from going go unforgettable parties, memorable events, important family gatherings, etc. 6+ hours a day is something to respect ... well of course sometimes you get money and fame ... but still, 4 times the sacrifice I put now ... I don't think I'd be able to do it. No tendria los huevos ... like they say in Spanish.
Anyways, the show was first class as well as the performers. I definitely recommend it.
We were not allowed to take pictures or record during the exhibition, however I was able to take a short clip of Shizuka Arakawa at the end of the evening (I almost slip at the end).
Click me
Friday, August 17, 2007
Here we go ... my first post
I have been wanting to start a blog for a while already but have been lazy/busy. Well finally, and mostly due to the weather conditions (too hot to do anything else other then sit near the AC), I have gotten myself to begin. It will be a blog mostly about my sport life in Japan, but maybe in the future there will be all sort of posts...or no posts at all if I get lazy/busy.
For those who do not know about me before I arrived to Japan...
I was born and raised in Peru (if you do not know where that is ... think Machu Pichu, Inkas or Nazca lines) and lived there until I turned 20. During my school years I went to the American school of Lima, a private school with all sorts of sport facilities (a couple of indoor and outdoor soccer, volleyball, basketball fields, baseball fields, 5 climbing walls, a cheap gym, a 400 meter track, amongs other). We were taught to play all sort of sports as well: lacrosse, golf, wall climbing, swimming, skating, etc. And I'd say physically speaking, the students in my school were a lot bigger and stronger than those in normal Peruvian schools.
Ironically, nationally speaking we pretty much sucked in sports. We never had a chance to play public schools, but I am sure they would have kicked our asses in any sport.
I was ADCA (the group of schools we belonged to) track champion throughout pretty much all high school ... but was a joke in any other tournament.
Before track I was in love (initially forced by my parents due to my asthma problem) with swimming. I began practicing this sport when I was about 6 years old and had my last competition when I was about 18. After my 15th birthday though I was fed up with it and my transition to track began.
I was never to crazy about practicing, always too busy with weekend parties (like everyone in school, I guess that's why we were not elite in sports) and get togethers...and of course with school work...hmm. But I did get some runs done and had a PB of 2.08 when I was 16 in the 800 meter run. PB that had to wait 8 years to break (a couple of months ago).
The month after graduation I broke my ankle real bad and was away from sports for about 1 - 2 years. That was pretty much the end of competitive sports chapter 1 in my life's story.
For those who are wondering where in the world is Omar????....
After living in NY for a while I decided to make a trip to Japan ... learn the language, culture, tradition ... I am half Japanese but had never been to this side of the globe before.
I arrived September 2004 and began working as a language "teacher" in Saitama, about an hour away from Tokyo. One of the teachers in my school participated in marathon races and now and then would tell me about how running is big in Japan. That fall I decided I would get back in shape and race again ... I thought "if I can sprint 800 meters for sure I can jog 21 kilometers ... how hard can that be??"
So I signed up for my first race: Toda half marathon Nov. 19th 2005.
I began my training early October having 6 weeks before the race ... First two weeks I think I averaged about 30 km total after taking some days off from my two first runs. By the time the race day came I had run a grand total of 150 km in 6 weeks. I was ready to rock...
I do not remember much, as it was 2 years ago...all I remember is the frustration of watching girls, boys, grandpas and grandmas passing by me while I was suffering to finish.
I finished with a 1.24 ... with a terrible back pain and an ambulance waiting for me.... and of course with the next day or two off work as I could not really move.
A few weeks after that I began jogging again ... I was ready to give sports a second chance.
Currently
I joined a team the following year: Namban Rengo, where I met many experienced and fast runners who helped me out and gave me an idea of the Japanese running scene.
After a year with them I am now more of a loner, making my own running schedules (still learning) and chosing my own races (I race about twice a month now!!).
My Pb's to the date are:
800: 2.07
1000: 2.38
1500: 4.13
5000: 16.19
10km: 34.16
21km: 1.14
My goals for what's left of this year (2007) are:
800: 2.04
1500: 4.09
5000: 15.45
10km: 33:20
21km: 1.11
Next I will be posting some boring data just as a note to myself...about my training in 2006 and the first half of this year.
For those who do not know about me before I arrived to Japan...
I was born and raised in Peru (if you do not know where that is ... think Machu Pichu, Inkas or Nazca lines) and lived there until I turned 20. During my school years I went to the American school of Lima, a private school with all sorts of sport facilities (a couple of indoor and outdoor soccer, volleyball, basketball fields, baseball fields, 5 climbing walls, a cheap gym, a 400 meter track, amongs other). We were taught to play all sort of sports as well: lacrosse, golf, wall climbing, swimming, skating, etc. And I'd say physically speaking, the students in my school were a lot bigger and stronger than those in normal Peruvian schools.
Ironically, nationally speaking we pretty much sucked in sports. We never had a chance to play public schools, but I am sure they would have kicked our asses in any sport.
I was ADCA (the group of schools we belonged to) track champion throughout pretty much all high school ... but was a joke in any other tournament.
Before track I was in love (initially forced by my parents due to my asthma problem) with swimming. I began practicing this sport when I was about 6 years old and had my last competition when I was about 18. After my 15th birthday though I was fed up with it and my transition to track began.
I was never to crazy about practicing, always too busy with weekend parties (like everyone in school, I guess that's why we were not elite in sports) and get togethers...and of course with school work...hmm. But I did get some runs done and had a PB of 2.08 when I was 16 in the 800 meter run. PB that had to wait 8 years to break (a couple of months ago).
The month after graduation I broke my ankle real bad and was away from sports for about 1 - 2 years. That was pretty much the end of competitive sports chapter 1 in my life's story.
For those who are wondering where in the world is Omar????....
After living in NY for a while I decided to make a trip to Japan ... learn the language, culture, tradition ... I am half Japanese but had never been to this side of the globe before.
I arrived September 2004 and began working as a language "teacher" in Saitama, about an hour away from Tokyo. One of the teachers in my school participated in marathon races and now and then would tell me about how running is big in Japan. That fall I decided I would get back in shape and race again ... I thought "if I can sprint 800 meters for sure I can jog 21 kilometers ... how hard can that be??"
So I signed up for my first race: Toda half marathon Nov. 19th 2005.
I began my training early October having 6 weeks before the race ... First two weeks I think I averaged about 30 km total after taking some days off from my two first runs. By the time the race day came I had run a grand total of 150 km in 6 weeks. I was ready to rock...
I do not remember much, as it was 2 years ago...all I remember is the frustration of watching girls, boys, grandpas and grandmas passing by me while I was suffering to finish.
I finished with a 1.24 ... with a terrible back pain and an ambulance waiting for me.... and of course with the next day or two off work as I could not really move.
A few weeks after that I began jogging again ... I was ready to give sports a second chance.
Currently
I joined a team the following year: Namban Rengo, where I met many experienced and fast runners who helped me out and gave me an idea of the Japanese running scene.
After a year with them I am now more of a loner, making my own running schedules (still learning) and chosing my own races (I race about twice a month now!!).
My Pb's to the date are:
800: 2.07
1000: 2.38
1500: 4.13
5000: 16.19
10km: 34.16
21km: 1.14
My goals for what's left of this year (2007) are:
800: 2.04
1500: 4.09
5000: 15.45
10km: 33:20
21km: 1.11
Next I will be posting some boring data just as a note to myself...about my training in 2006 and the first half of this year.
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