Last week I managed to get in 4 outdoor runs and today was the 3rd day in a row where I ran outside. Distances are gradually increasing to an average of about 4 miles and my body seems to be handling it ok. This is encouraging and longer runs are hopeful. Its great to be running outside, regularly, again. Feels so good. I still keep wondering how am I ever going to do a marathon in the fall! One step at a time. Next Saturday is the Aspire 10K race. That should help boost the confidence factor for a summer of serious training.

The temperatures yesterday at around 11:00 am were approaching 50 degrees. It was a cloudy day with the sun begging to come out. I wanted to get a 5 mile run in as a confidence builder for Aspire in 3 weeks as well an overall metric for the shape I am in.

Happily, I made it and am feeling pretty good today the day after. Of course the Aleve probably helped but during the run I felt real good. Compared to the treadmill, I feel better on the road - I hope this continues.

During my run I came up with the idea of writing a short story called "The Big Race" to chronicle my preparation and training for the 2009 NYC Marathon. This should help keep me motivated and on a reasonable training plan. I am also giving serious thought to making NY a fundraiser ~ more to come on that.

Now that its EDT and Spring is springing, the idea of running outside is intoxicating. Got to get to work, now; but I'll be back, soon!

Spring is Here!
Yesterday was the first day of spring for 2009; not according to the calendar, but as far as I am concerned, it was - a perfect lovely early spring day to go out for a run and that's exactly what I did! The start was labored but I was able to complete 4 miles and thoroughly enjoyed being out. I felt left side soreness on my inner ham and was not affected by it, just mindful. Today I am sore but will attempt another run later.

My plans for the NYC Marathon are taking shape; well, at least I am becoming much more open to it. The keys are to get the distance up and drop some weight. Between treadmill, elliptical and outdoor running, I am logging now, 18-22 miles a week. I'd like to get this up to about 25 miles within a month. Yesterday, I registered for the Aspire 10K on April 4th and plan to register for the LI Half Marathon on May 3rd. Sometime between now and May 1st, if I am feeling ok, I will register for NY and really step up the training. This year, I intend to cross-train with swimming at Piquets in the new pool.

Guaranteed Entry NYC Marathon 2009

Below is an email informing me of my acceptance into the NYC Marathon for 2009, if I apply.

So I finally get to the point where I have reconciled that maybe its time to hang up the marathon running, and here I get this email telling me I can have the NYC Marathon, if I want it.

Every morning when I get out of bed, my body gives me a loud reminder that my bones and muscles have aged. Common sense tells me to let this running opportunity slide; especially since I have done 2 NYC Marathons before, 2004 & 2005.

But on the other side of my brain, I hear these tempting thoughts: "If you train smart, drop a few pounds and by the way, you do have 8 months to prepare ..."

Friends are a rip. They will say: "go ahead, do it!" Of course they don't even walk much more than a couple of miles, let alone, have ever done a marathon.

This is not going to be an easy decision. I'm not even sure I have what it takes anymore. It's the kind of challenge, though, that might have value for me and those around me in dealing with these tough times. On the other hand, don't I have enough to deal with as is? The other thing is I am just getting back to 100% from injuries and know how too much training could bring on more injuries again.

I also don't want to lose the joy and pleasure I get from my running; training can really take the fun out of running. I am going to really have to think this one through carefully. And may need a lot of support from my friends. Fortunately, I have some time to make up my mind.

February 25, 2009 Congratulations IRA BELLACH! You're eligible for guaranteed entry to the most spectacular marathon in the world, the ING New York City Marathon 2009, on Sunday, November 1. To claim your guaranteed entry, you must apply. For complete instructions to guide you through the application process, click here. To claim your guaranteed entry, apply by May 1, 2009. Click here to apply online now. If you've already applied to the 2009 marathon, there is no need for you to apply again. Unable to Compete? If you know you can't make it on November 1, and you want to extend your guaranteed entry to 2010, please follow these steps: Apply and pay for your guaranteed entry by May 1, 2009. Once you've applied to the 2009 race, you can cancel your entry by following the instructions on our website. If you cancel your entry by October 31, 2009, you'll be eligible for guaranteed entry next year. You will not be guaranteed a spot in the 2010 marathon unless you follow the correct application and cancellation process this year or qualify for guaranteed entry by another official method. Contact reghelp@nyrr.org with your questions or concerns, and include your name and date of birth in the e-mail. We look forward to running with you on the streets of NYC at this year's marathon and in the future! To make travel arrangements for the 2009 marathon, click here for information from Anthony Travel or call 800.736.6377 to speak with a travel expert. To join NYRR, or renew your membership, visit nyrr.org/membership. As always, we welcome your input about all NYRR programs; please see nyrr.org/contactus for contact information. Copyright ©2009 New York Road Runners, 9 East 89th Street, New York, NY 10128