You Show Up and So Do I…

/in /by

Remember those episodes of Mr. Rodgers we used to watch as kids? They had a magic word with every episode. Later through mainstream TV in the 80’s and 90’s, shows like Saturday Night Live and Nike commercials featured Eddie Murphy and the “Admiral” David Robinson, providing parodies like Mr. Robinson’s neighborhood, where each provided comedic satire mimicking Fred Rodger’s word of the day. Well, Southwake….Today’s word of the day on this Sunday was…Ready?….ACCOUNTABILITY.

Full disclosure in this backblast in an effort to be completely transparent with PAX who continue to inspire me on a daily basis. YHC put up the pre-blast yesterday afternoon advertising a 5mi EC with a 6mi Main Event. The alarm was set for a 4:20am rise. Hit snooze twice.. Something about those 18 minutes, made YHC feel a false sense of security, knowing that I had enough time to make it to Womble in time to plant the flag and get PAX started for this morning’s run(s). As YHC finally woke, the back wasn’t feeling right. Same feeling from the week before. Surely PAX would understand if I ‘mailed it in’ this morning and decided to stretch instead of running EC. Last week I got a mile in and had Maybelline lead PAX on the designed route. In retrospect, stretching was the logical option, but after reading Aquaman’s FB post on discomfort this week, I should have planned better and ultimately would have been fine continuing on the route.

Arrived late to EC- about 4minutes. As I drove down Stinson across that set of speed bumps I know all too well from Cletus and Ivan EC, I had convinced myself that I’d plant the flag and tell LED and H1N1 that I just didn’t have it this morning.  They were the only PAX with an HC and a planned route that started at 5am heading into this morning. I had convinced myself that I would save it for the main event and even had a line…”You guys go ahead on your route. I’ll stay back and stretch and prepare for the PAX at 6am.” As I made the right into the Womble lot, I see the light up vests and headlamps. “Damn it, Mookie…If you can’t Q it, don’t do it.” And with that gentle reminder, YHC mumbled, “If you are showing up, so am I..suck it up” and pulled into the parking space next to LED’s truck. No more excuses… These guys were now waiting on YHC. It wasn’t just H1N1 and LED. We had Pikachu, Bernie, and Cupid, making a 6 pack for this morning’s EC run.

Asked LED if he had a route. He and H1N1 were doing the escape route to Ting for around 7-8 miles. Perfect. The remaining 4 would follow and circle back when we got to the Paradise City EC neighborhood. I think the last time I saw LED and H1N1 all morning was in that parking lot. Those dudes exited Stinson with a purpose and as we reached Jones onto Veteran’s Park, those light up vests faded to black. Cupid, Bernie, and Pikachu kept YHC honest. As I sat back in a comfortable 9:10 pace, I could still see them and knew if I kept them in sight, I’d be holding my own on the run. As we made our way out of Veteran’s, YHC lost them them on the ‘Boardwalk’ into the PC neighborhood. Light up vests then proceeded back toward YHC and at that point knew they reached the turn.

Made it back on the ‘Boardwalk’ and on to Veterans. Pikachu called an audible and indicated that we could bypass Veteran’s and venture toward Holly Springs Road by way of Rhamkatte Village. Also determined at that juncture to ride on the left side of Pikachu instead of behind, while also picking up the pace to be in front. Something was brewing inside of Pikachu and had enough wits to be above the fray instead of below…At that point, YHC’s back issues from earlier subsided. Guess its a part of getting older and just takes longer to warm up. Made our way through Rhamkatte and onto Holly Springs Road. Asked for a route confirmation… Do we go straight down Bass Lake to Stinson or do we get back to Womble via Holly Springs Road-Raleigh, Grigsby-Stinson?….

Neither. We ended up going Bass Lake to Earp, Left on Raleigh and then Grigsby and onto Stinson. All EC PAX arrived back to the lot and were greeted by an AGS regular- Master Shake. While YHC switched out Hokas, Pikachu made a pit stop, Cupid did some stretching, Bernie adjusted his earbuds.

And….then here it is.. just what in the hell is going on here at AGS?  In rolls DoubleD, followed by 187, Lipstick, SkidMark, Pablo, and an FNG UTI headlocked at Dunkin Donuts after the Saturday Dad’s Workout. Second FNG in 4 weeks at AGS.. Honestly, only in F3-Southwake do we see FNG’s showing up to first workouts getting 6 miles, having only run 3mi ever as their longest run prior. What’s even more impressive is that they keep showing up after and in impressive fashion.. Look at Master Shake- think he is on 4 straight weeks of AGS.

Walked over to greet Skidmark and mistakenly asked if he was ‘Getting 10mi this morning.’ His standard was vastly different than YHC’s standard this morning as he replied with a, “No Mook, I’m getting 18.” Yeah- note to self, next time YHC asks how many miles Skidmark, 187, Bernie, Pikachu, Lipstick, and Cupid are getting on a weekend day, just take the number YHC has in mind and multiple by 2….or in Pikachu’s case..muliple by 3. Good Lord, Pikachu…31 miles at 8:40 pace? Seriously? #Respect

6:00am hit and we were off with the following workout.

FNGs: Welcome, Juul!

Warm Up: Light jog around the tennis court lot. Circled up for Imperial Walkers X12, Hillbillies X12, Good Morning’s X12, Fazio Arms 12F\12B, Prison Squats X12, One extra Prison Squat with a hold for Morocan Night Clubs. One final squat hold to explain the route.

The Workout: Bernie and the additional gazelles (Skidmark, Cupid, 187, Lipstick, and Pikachu) had a planned 18 mi run, which would take them down and up Stinson, with a right onto Bass Lake, Left on Salem Ridge, Left on Linksland, and down Holly Springs onto Starbucks and the U-Turn route. YHC decided to change this morning’s planned route to mirror the first 3-4 miles of Bernie’s route so that PAX could run together for part of the way. The only exception to this morning’s 6 mi route was a slight detour within Rhamkatte for a lap and then back onto Holly Springs Road to Raleigh, Grigsby, and Stinson to the lot. Kudos to Pablo and DoubleD for picking up the six throughout the 6mi route.

Mary: Stretches OYO after the run.
Announcements: F3- Family Cookout next weekend. Sign up sheet on FB and Slack.
T-Claps (Recognition): All PAX getting quality miles this morning 6-18-31 mile distances. Also to Redenbacher, Full House, and UTI for completing a preview 1/2 marathon this morning. Also T-claps to FNG-Juul on his first workout and Master Shake for making AGS a ‘thang’ this past month.

Prayer: COT was conducted before the Main Event. Continued prayers for Pikachu’s friend, Josh whose grandmother passed last week. Continued prayers for Bernie and his family. YHC took us out.

Men- Listen up. I want you all to know that every one of you, those I’ve come to know well these past 2 years and those I’ve met a few times in the gloom..Whether you know it or not, you all continue to inspire YHC. Truth be told, I had no desire to run and workout this morning and is sometimes true from week to week. In fact, as stated earlier in this backblast, I am sometimes totally reserved to ‘mail it in.’ The power of ‘showing up’ is a real thing. It’s one thing to ‘show up,’ but it’s not just a matter of ‘showing up,’ its a matter of ‘showing up’ with intent. Every one of you showed up with the intent to make each other better this morning and every morning I make my way out of the fartsack and into the gloom. It’s what I enjoy most about morning’s in the gloom. You are the first faces I see, and the one’s YHC knows will be there in those times of discomfort (including rounds of DoubleD inspired Coyote Ugly’s) whether its in the gloom or in life. The Richmond Marathon and Holly Springs Half are just around the corner…. After what YHC witnessed this morning, there is no question…F3 Southwake is ‘Showing Up.’ Always an honor to lead on Sundays and looking forward to many more in the upcoming months.

Decisions…Decisions..

/in /by

For this morning’s edition of AGS, YHC sent a pre-blast full of options, which included a 5mi EC at 5am, a 6mi Main Event (complete with a Rucking Option) starting at 6am. On Sunday’s its usually a rest day for most PAX, but in late September, it becomes a redemption opportunity for those that missed U-Turn or for some, it’s an opportunity to catch up on mileage. I like to think its an opportunity to start the week off right, exchange some quality mumble, and provide some accountability. The best part about this AO is the PAX that show up. You just never know who is gonna roll in that parking lot every week. The lineup has its usual suspects with some becoming regulars, but for the most part, there are always a few surprises.

For the 5am installment, as planned both LED and Fonzie are parked and ready for their 5 (onto 7 miles). Planted the flag and as I walk back to the car for a last swig of Gatorade, headlights hit my backside. Turn around to find Maybelline, who is gonna keep me honest this morning. As I greet him, I ask, “are you getting 10-11mi today?” He replies with, “We’ll see how I feel.”

Confirmed with LED, Fonzie, and Maybelline my planned 5.0 mi route. We’d go down and up Stinson, right on Bass Lake, left on Salem Ridge, left on Linksland, left on Holly Springs Rd. Follow HS Road all the way to Raleigh St. and then back onto Stinson to the Womble tennis lot. Hills- yes, but not as many had we gone in the opposite direction. YHC and PAX proceed on the route until about a mile in. YHC is now finding it more difficult to just get up and run, now finding the importance of the need to stretch to be a necessity. For that reason, YHC held up at mile 1 feeling the back starting to stiffen up and proceeded back to the lot for some much needed stretching. Maybelline has seen the route several times and had taken the lead with LED and Fonzie to ensure they were following the route as it was drawn up.

As I walked back and proceeded to the soccer fields, a faint glow was seen in the distance. A light up vest in the pitch dark, cruising a a steady speed. Maybe Pikachu, maybe not..As 5:45am approached, Maybelline, LED, and Fonzie returned soaked. The humidity was thick this morning and was suffocating at times. LED and Fonzie proceeded forward for there final 2 miles, with Maybelline circling around the lot to get his even 5mi’s.

At that point, the 6am crew was starting to roll in. Dauber- with ruck sack, Boy George- with a breathtaker. For the 3rd week straight, a Master Shake appearance, followed by Forceps. Nemo rolling in early and then another surprise of the morning….Double D? Yep- he was there. H1N1 pulled in and then a sweaty Pikachu looking to get some extra miles with PAX. And then from the shadows emerges Yogurt for a solid 13 PAX.

6am hits and started off with the following warm-up

Warm Up: light mosey around the lot. Circle up for Imperial Walkers X12, Hillbillies X12, Good Mornings X12….”wait, why is he giving us 12 counts?” Yogurt knew why and offered that he may merlot if the Brady 12 count continued.. broke the circle and continued a light jog to the other side of the lot, with Frankensteins on the return, alternating lunge walks and butt kickers, which then morphed into a set of carioca. Circled back up for Fazio Arm Circles 10F\10B, but continued with a final set of Prison Squats X12. Squat hold while explaining the running route. Dauber and Boy George already had their rucking route solidified. Later learned it was 3.25mi filled with 4 dozen frogs and quality mumblechatter.

As YHC explained the route, LED and Fonzie had just finished up their 7 mi run and would proceed with COT following the running route description.
The Workout:

For this morning’s Main Event, we’d peel out of the lot heading left onto Stinson and then a right on Raleigh all the way to Earp St. At Earp, we’d proceed right to Bass Lake and then all the way down to the lake. When we reached the lake, we’d proceed straight up the Bass Lake killer hill and do a semi-circle around the lake and back onto the greenway until we emerge adjacent to the baseball fields. From there, PAX would proceed down Grigsby and then a right on Stinson back to the lot.

Strong paces by the lead PAX, H1N1, Maybelline (who apparently was feeling good 10mi run today!), Yogurt, Pikachu, Nemo, and Double D. Later discovered that there was a slight misinterpretation of the route and were short changed by missing the Bass Lake Killer hill. No worries though as all PAX got their 5-6mi monies worth this morning. It is also important to note another improved run by Master Shake and Forceps, who decided 5-6 miles wasn’t enough. He wanted 7 and that’s what he got. Also big shout out to Nemo, who reached 100mi mark for the 3rd consecutive month.  Great work by all this morning!

Mary: Stretches OYO
Announcements: F3 Family Cookout.
T-Claps (Recognition): Nemo 100mi mark reached for 3rd consecutive month. Maybelline and Pikachu getting 10 and 15 miles within the stale fart humidity this morning. All PAX making this morning count despite the unfavorable running conditions.
Prayer: Pikachu’s friend Josh, who’s grandmother is challenged with health issues. YHC took us out.

A Tale of Two Runs..

/in /by

Here it is, Fellas… It’s late September. Temps are starting to drop in the morning. The leaves are starting to change. Holly Springs Half Marathon is 9 weeks away… Over these next 9 weeks, decisions are being made. Maybe you are not signed up yet. Maybe you are signed up, but you haven’t yet fully committed to the training, or maybe you are thinking about it, but the longest you have ever run is a 5k or 10k.  Maybe you have signed up and you are know starting to really focus on the training regiment. Whatever your situation may be, there is always a certainty in SouthWake at this critical juncture in the calendar….Accountability.

If you are on the fence about doing the 1/2 or even starting your training, my advice is to ‘just show up.’ Put your stamp on it. Sign up\Show up. Make it official. Lock it in. Put the date on the calendar. You want to know why? Here it is…. There are guys in your F3 brotherhood that want to see you complete this thing you didn’t think possible. They want to see you succeed. They want to see you hit that goal time, and in the end, they want you to experience this Holly Springs signature event together with them.

For that reason, this is the one event that is on YHC’s calendar every year since starting F3. Its on the calendar. It’s on there the day the following year’s race goes on sale, and stays there for the entire year as a constant reminder of an agreement you make with yourself. This is the time of year where mileage continues to increase, a seamless transition for those fresh off of BRR, but for those that didn’t participate in BRR, a time to focus.

Last week’s AGS run focused on the escape route out of Womble. This week’s would focus on the Bass Lake entry route from the new greenway. YHC’s pre-blast provided 3 options for this morning’s run. A 5:05am 5mi EC, a 6am 6mi Main Event Lake Run, and a Rucking option, for those with a ‘Breathtaker’ to soak in this morning’s sunrise.

YHC rolled in at 5am and was quickly greeted by LED, Fonzie, and UTI, who were ready to roll. Planted flag and gave out 2 options. The ‘escape route’ through Jones Park and Veterans or the Rhamkatte\Holly Springs\Linksland\Salem Ridge\Bass Lake Hill route. LED and Fonzie leaned toward the less hilly option. 5:05am hit and we were off.

Proceeded out of Stinson and then onto Raleigh St. as we made our way onto Jones and Veterans. YHC was the six during these 5mi as LED, Fonzie, and UTI were taking full advantage of the weather change, running at a brisk pace. Great work by all PAX picking up the six several times during the run. As we made the final push back to Womble, YHC started to see some cars cycling in to Womble.

As we made it back to the parking lot, YHC sees Master Shake rolling in.This guy is on fire this week, selecting mostly run-centric AO’s- AGS, PC, and R4TJ. Not too shabby for a guy who’s longest distance was a 5k before joining F3 a week ago.

In the near distance, the Cupid mobile sat unoccupied. Forceps next comes rolling in, followed by Nemo, who has effectively EH’d cotter, Bullwinkle, who had just pulled in. Bobby Dall, then Full House. Yep… even an Oboe appearance.

A dozen PAX, not a 1/2 dozen… A Full Dozen, who were all treated to a great run, amazing sunrise, and quality fellowship. 6am hit and we were off with the following warm up.

Warm Up: Light jog around the lot. Circle up for SSH X12, Imperial Walkers X12, Hillbillies X12, Prison Squats X12, Good Mornings X12 IC, Fazio Arms 10F\10B, Standing Frankensteins X12 IC. Squat Hold while YHC explained the route.
The Workout: Standard Half Marathon Greenway, Bass Lake (counterclockwise), Sugg Farm exit to Womble.
Mary: COT conducted before Main Event run to include LED and Fonzie, who had just finished up their 5mi earlier with YHC and UTI.
Announcements: F3 Family Cookout. UTI has BreathTaker. Encourage PAX to bid to ‘Bring the Pain to Crain’ and determine where he posts with Breathtaker this week.
T-Claps (Recognition): Cowboy and Forceps for donating and getting UTI to post as AGS. UTI for a strong 5mi EC run and follow up Ruck this morning. All PAX getting it down this morning and holding each other accountable throughout the run.
Prayer: Prayers for Shredder and his family. Continued prayers for Bernie and his family. All PAX on IR and those returning back to the gloom for continued health. YHC took us out\’in’ before the run.

I Read the Article, So I Decided to Try It….

/in /by

Pre-Blast advertised a 2+ mi EC, leveraging the new greenway behind the newly developed homes along Grisby. It’s time to up the mileage being offered at AGS with HSHM just around the corner. Today’s Main Event would be a review of the Womble escape route along the 1/2 Marathon Course, were YHC would be taking PAX through Jones and Veteran’s Park, including the neighborhood that encompasses part of Monday morning’s Paradise City EC route. 3 out and 3 in….

Rolling in for EC, I see a dry UTI parked and ready to go. I stress the ‘dry,’ as what I witnessed today after the run may have been quite possible the most unbelievable display of ‘ringing out your shoes and socks. Could have filled a kiddie pool, no joke. The man works hard out there, that is for sure. EC was a nice even paced route along the new greenway. Halfway in, YHC forget to press play on his Garmin, but after everything was said and done, 2+ miles as promised. Did some light stretching as PAX started to roll in. We had DawgPound with Cowboy riding shotgun. And then a car I had never seen before….

Out of the car emerges an FNG, who had read the recent article in Holly Springs Magazine. He said, “I read the article and figured I’d try it to see what it was all about. I figured if I didn’t show up today, I may never try it and this morning was as good a day as any.” As we were getting to know the FNG a bit better, in rolls Oboe and then followed by Nemo. With a few minutes before 6, YHC delivered the disclaimer. All signed sealed and delivered were were ready to go with 25 seconds left.

6 o’clock hit and we took off with the following warm up.

Warm Up: Light job to the back of the lot. Lunges to the middle of the lot. Circle up for the following…. GM’s X10, Hillbillies X12, Imperial Walkers X10, DawgPound Mountain Climbers X10 (as re-learned at Ivan this week…YHC still did them wrong according to Dawg), Fazio Arms 10F/10B, Prison Squats X10. Squat Hold, while explaining the route.

The Workout: Womble Holly Springs 1/2 Marathon escape route, with slight Main St.\Raleigh St. detour. PAX headed out of with a left on Stinson, followed by a right on Raleigh St. Followed that all the way to Holly Springs Rd, where we headed through Jones and then onto Veterans Park. As we ventured out and into the Paradise City EC neighborhood route, PAX were seen periodically picking up the six. Did a quick loop, and DawgPound, FNG, and YHC exchanged some quality mumblechatter. During the run we learned that the FNG is an avid reader, works for the same company as Cowboy as a Technical Developer for Flu Vaccines. Additionally, we learned that his longest run prior to today was a 5k a few years back. Well today, he got his money’s worth and put in a solid effort. At the conclusion of the run, he even indicated interest in running the 1/2 as his company is a sponsor. He now has plenty of instant accountability. Whether he knew it or not, he had it the moment he stepped out of his car this morning. Strong finish at the end by PAX picking up the 6 and remaining PAX as we entered back on Stinson. DawgPound and I trailed a bit behind as we were confirming characters from Aqua Teen Hunger Force. YHC had never seen it before, but apparently since our FNG’s name is Carl, this triggered recall for Dawg specific to this cartoon. Hence, the makings of another quality name in F3-SouthWake.

Banana Seat, Princess Cut, Oboe are some of my favorite names ….but this one this morning from Dawg may be up there….Welcome- Master Shake.

As we arrived back, circled up for COT and watched in awe as a now very saturated UTI began ringing out his socks and shirt. It was a humid morning, but a solid run and can’t wait for the upcoming Fall training runs to start. Today was the first of many tours of the route as we set our focus on November’s Half.

FNGs: Master Shake
Mary: Stretches OYO as we did count off and name-o-rama
Announcements: Paradise City tomorrow 5:45 Fitness Test
T-Claps (Recognition): All PAX, especially our newest member Master Shake, showing for his first workout getting a mileage PR.
Prayer: Prayers for Shredder and his family. Additional prayers for UTI’s co-worker, Carolyn who is battling cancer. YHC took us out.

Broken Promises, Re-Runs, No Regrets….

/in /by

Pre-Blast the night before offers up an ‘easy’ run for Sunday’s edition of AGS. YHC sends out early knowing that Bender Street is in play Saturday night at Bombshell. Midget SC’s and YHC knows what’s up. There will be some Billy Jean choreography playing on FB before the night is over…and yes- no Midget come 6am.  The thing is, YHC sends these pre-blasts for a reason. They may not resonate with all PAX, but they have meaning to what the workout will be the next day. The picture depicts a solitary sad clown flying a kite. For YHC it has meaning. This was the last picture taken before making the decision to hit the reset button… A do-over of sorts.

Every time I roll into that parking lot at Womble, I hit the reset button. I reset what happened the week before and I prepare for what is coming at me in the week ahead. The intent is always to advance forward. When I roll in, I know I’m getting at least 6mi as Redenbacher is parked. No signs of life, but I know he is there somewhere getting 3-4. Plant flag and Boy George Rolls in. He already has scheduled run. Unaware, he has 10 miles lined up and asks if I’m considering Soul Crusher. I reply with an unfortunate no. The rain from the prior days cancelled out that option and we’d be taking it to the streets for hill work. Just as I finish up that dialogue, DawgPound quickly inquires, “Are we really doing Soul Crusher? …because if we are, I’m getting in my car and leaving.” I’ll admit, I don’t know everything about running, but I do know that muddy trails make for injuries and with 2 weeks to BRR, none will happen on my watch. With that, YHC already had an alternate plan. Unfortunately, this may very well be the 4th week in a row we couldn’t put the lake in play due to rain, but given the upcoming BRR, hills would be the perfect formula for this morning’s run. UTI and Oboe quickly join and Cupid rolls in with Backstroke (canine 2.0), who does a perfect Lipstick impersonation 2 minutes before the start. Now its a Sunday as Maybelline and Nemo emerge.

6 o’clock hits and we were off with the following warm up….

Warm Up: Light jog around the Womble lot. Circle up for exaggerated prison squats (2 count on the down 1 count on the up) X10, Good Mornings X10, Imperial Walkers X10, Hillbillies X10, Mountain Cljmbers X10, Frankensteins to the far end of the lot with alternating Butt Kickers. Carioca to the starting point. Squat Hold to explain the route.

The Workout: With Cupid and Backstroke the only ones to Ruck this morning, YHC provided the running route for the 7 PAX looking for miles. This morning’s route would offer 3, 4, and 6 mile routes as they would be Hill segments on Library Hill, Cemetery Hill, and Bass Lake. All 7 PAX opted for the 6 mi option so were ALL IN on the 3 segments. With a sly look and shades of sarcasm, UTI opens up and says “nice to see you are original and repeating what you did last week.” SHOTS FIRED…It must be told that UTI is an avid reader of YHC’s backblasts. While a reader, he wasn’t yet a do’er so today he’d be in it for the long haul. He later proclaimed that his comments were meant to somehow talk me out of the intended route. One thing about YHC is that he is stubborn and when its layed out in the circle, it gets executed. Route would start at Womble Tennis lot and continue through the baseball fields. As we made our way out of the fields, we would advance right onto Grigsby, then Raleigh and eventually onto Main St., where we would detour to the Library. At Library Hill we would continue on the down slope all the way to the speed bump warning. With all PAX at the speed bump line, we’d all ascend at a strong pace to the top.

This is where it got interesting, as Oboe, as if shot out of a cannon, set the ‘standard’ on that segment along with strong efforts by all PAX. YHC then directed PAX to drop off their library books and advance the long way around the lot to the drop off and back up toward the DTT AO meeting spot onto Earp. As we approach Earp, we proceeded left to the Cemetery. At this point, we had Nemo, UTI, Maybelline, and Oboe ahead with YHC, DawgPound, and Redenbacher at the crossroads of really? and yep- let’s do this… Nemo came back to pick up the six and now it was on… Strong push up the hill with Redenbacher finding another gear to the top. As we all stood triumphant at the top, we looked ahead and realized… WTF.. this thing is a damn half pipe. Rolling with it, we descended and climbed to the the stop sign at Main St. Continued up Earp and then a right on Bass Lake. At that point, YHC knew his perfect 2 month streak of 1 hour 5-5+ mi AO’s was in jeopardy. With Bass Lake left, I inform UTI and Maybelline that we may be over if we make it all the way to the Bass Lake lot. We had 17 min left at that point, so we’d be cutting it close with 2 and change left. PAX continued on Earp, circled back for the 6 and then proceeded down Bass Lake. As we made our way down, DawgPound made a detour down Stinson, with remaining PAX moving forward. Told UTI, who was ahead, we’d stop at Salem Ridge and then head back, leaving us 200 yrds short of what YHC had planned. All PAX made it to Salem Ridge and extended beyond to the lot before proceeding back up Bass Lake.

At this point, I’m not sure what happened, but the push from the remaining PAX was incredible. Maybe it was the right song in a play list, maybe PAX wanted to get back to the lot before 7:15, but somehow we found a groove in that last segment and pushed each other to an 8:43 pace before hitting Stinson. Finished the route to the flag, some getting a 10K, others 7 and 9 with EC.

Overall- just flat out strong efforts.

Mary: Stretches OYO
Announcements: ShamWoW has PC tomorrow.
T-Claps (Recognition): All PAX getting miles in on a Sunday. Maybelline 2 weeks in a row putting in some quality hill work post-rehab
Prayer: Noah’s Ark and his M, Michelle. Continued prayers for health and healing. Those on IR. YHC took us out.

Pace Yourself..

/in /by

With another Derek Davis Memorial 5K in the books, it had me thinking this morning about our community. As I drove by the stop light at Linksland and Holly Springs, I glanced at the shoe tree. Amazing the outpouring of community support for this event.  Although I didn’t know Derek personally, only knowing what I know from second hand accounts of the great man he was and the  Strava records, many of which he still holds, I do know this.. His legacy is strong in this community and will regret never getting an opportunity to meet him in person. As I drove by the memorial, I made the first of many decisions…this morning’s route would be altered ensuring that PAX would run by in respect and for inspiration.

Arrived to the parking lot seeing 1 flag planted and Dauber sitting in his car waiting for signs of life to show. Exchanged pleasantries while I planted my flag. Bobby Dall comes rolling in as expected, followed by….wait a minute…Is that a ghost? No-It’s Maybelline! Great to see him back in the gloom and ready to test the legs with some mileage. Next we get a soon to be named “AGS Regular”…Oboe. Then followed by Redenbacher, who was coming in hot with 2min before start time.

6 o’clock hits and we were off with the following warm up.

Warm Up: A light hot lap around the parking lot circling up for some SSH X10, Imperial Squat Walkers X10, Good Mornings X10, Fazio Arm Circles 10F/10B, Mosey’d back to the far end of the lot w\butt kickers and high knees. At that point Boy George joined the mix. He had put in a few EC miles and was going to join Dauber for this morning’s Ruck. Carioca with alternating Frankensteins on the way back. Squat hold while Dauber explained his route which would include scenic tours of Sugg Farm, complete with Soul Crusher..YHC’s route would go as follows:

The Workout: PAX would venture up Stinson and exit to Holly Springs Road via Raleigh Street. From there we would head down Holly Springs Road picking up the six before stopping at Linksland at the memorial and then continue to Salem Ridge. From Salem Ridge we would make the push down and up hill before taking a right up Bass Lake Road and then back on to Stinson. During the route, YHC inquired with PAX on upcoming races. Oboe noted that he wasn’t signed up for any, but by the end of the conversation, we had another F3 HSHM entry. He’s signing up so let’s make sure we hold him accountable to that HC, Men! This guy has been showing up consistently on Sunday’s, pacing in front and picking up the six. He’ll be one to watch in November. Great push by him and Bobby Dall this morning.

During the run, it was also great to catch up with Maybelline. Looks like he’s on the recovery path as he was solid and consistent throughout the run. Now this Redenbacher guy is the reason why I titled this backblast.. “Pace Yourself.” He shared that yesterday after some coaching about pace with his 2.0-Swish before they ran the DD 5K, young Swish did not heed this advice. He got out way too fast and by the driving range was sucking wind and wanting a water break. By miles 2 and then eventually 3, the wheels came off… As I heard the re-telling of this story, I smiled. Been there, done that and had a similar experience trying to outpace Lipstick at the Torch Run. You live and learn.

Now heeding his own advice, Redenbacher comes into mile 3.5-4 with what appears to be fresh legs running down YHC as we head down Salem Ridge. Garmin starts to vibrate and I look down to see that he is pushing YHC to 8:25 pace. Ok- It’s on with about 0.25 to the stop sign before the Bass Lake climb. We approach the stop sign with all PAX, each one looking as if this climb is gonna suck….and well, it will, and it does. Great consistent pace is carried by all PAX to Stinson with a few rounds of picking up the six. We get to Stinson and inform Bobby Dall, Oboe, and Redenbacher that YHC is gonna head to the lot with about 5.1 mi. If they want at least 6.0, they should take the long way into Womble with the route around the baseball fields. They continued and all PAX regrouped in the lot and were rejoined by Dauber and Boy George.

Mary: Stretches OYO
Announcements: YHC 2-year Anniversary Q at PC tomorrow
T-Claps (Recognition): Maybelline’s return to the gloom. All PAX putting in solid efforts on the run and on the ruck.

Prayer: Prayers for Noah’s Ark and his wife Michelle. Dauber took us out.

Give Em 4, they take 6…

/in /by

“Mook- I want to start from AGS tomorrow with a 4-mile route…you got one?” This was the text that came through on my phone Saturday morning as my 2.0- Sprinkles and I headed down Stinson already mapping out Sunday’s run. “Already way ahead of you ShamWow,” I said in a mutter that prompted Sprinkles to ask who I was talking to.  Although I was originally calculating a 6mi run, including a trips to Rhamkatte, Cemetery Hill, and Library Hill, it could just as easily be converted into a 4 mi route with just Cemetery Hill and leaving hill repeats at Library Hill for those wanting 6mi.

With the route mapped, sent a pre-blast alerting PAX of hill work with a 6am start time. Arrived to Womble to see the that Aquaman and ShamWow’s vehicles were parked, but no sign of them. Probably out getting some extra miles. Planted the flag and then see Redenbacher rolling in then followed by Oboe, and Pablo. Was a little disappointed not to see the Sir DawgPound this morning. Rumor was yesterday that he was gonna be a AGS, but I guess he was saving it for what he has planned at Paradise City tomorrow.

5:57am- No ShamWow. Specifically planned the 4mi route for him. Later learned he did the 4mi route with Aquaman, but unfortunately had the start time wrong. I guess if he showed to AGS more often, he’d know it starts at 6, but we’ll let this one slide this week.

6:00am- We start on time. YHC instructed PAX to follow with a light jog to the baseball field parking lot to circle up for the following…

Warm Up: Imperial Walkers X10 slow cadence, Good Mornings X10, Hillbillies X10. PAX continued with a light jog to the Ivan lot for some stationary high knees X10, Hacky Sacks X10, Prison Squats X10. Squat Hold while I explained the route.

The Workout: All PAX were in for the 6mi route that went as follows…took a right from the Ivan parking lot onto Stinson. Followed Stinson all the way up and headed left on Bass Lake Rd. Continued to the light and headed straight into Rhamkatte Village. Proceeded up Jones Hill Road onto Old Ride Dr and did a lap around the townhouses before heading out of the development and taking a right back onto Holly Springs Road. Proceeded toward Main Street and took a left onto Raleigh St, and then a quick right onto Earp. Yep- here it comes, Cemetery Hill. It should be noted that prior to this segment, Pablo and Oboe had been solid in picking up Redenbacher and I through the run to this point. Cemetery Hill was no exception and all PAX put in a solid effort. With the side walk construction still going on on the other side of Holly Springs Rd, YHC decided to lead PAX back down Earp and avoid traffic traveling behind us on Holly Srpings Rd and given that there was no side walk on the other side. No rinse repeat on Cemetery Hill, but would head to the library via Main Street for 2 trips up and down Library Hill.

With 2 rounds of the hill behind us, YHC instructed PAX to head back onto Raleigh St and then take the long way back to Womble up Grigsby and then around the furthest side of the baseball fields back around Womble and then around the soccer fields back to the flag.

Mary: YHC lead a series of stretches inspired by his recent PT visit.

Announcements: ShamWow BRR training runs throughout today. Check Slack.
T-Claps (Recognition): All PAX tackling the hills today
Prayer: Crablegs for safe travels as he continues his inspiring journey across the country. PAX who are injured and healing. YHC took us out.

AGS…OYO

/in /by

As the saying goes, “If you can’t Q it, don’t do it.” Truth be told, YHC was not a 100% Sunday morning. Had taken the whole week off from the gloom after experiencing some hip discomfort from the 5mi run the Sunday before. Did all the PT exercises throughout the week…constant rolling and stretching, hydrating, and rest. Woke up early Sunday morning to do some more stretching and rolling at the Fern before heading into Womble. Everything felt fine for the time being.

Arrive to Womble and what do I see? A ghost pirate, Deadbolt backing his white phantom truck into a space abutting the bathrooms. He’s back and ready to burn off the week long beach vacation just in time for the final crucial weeks before BRR. Plant the flag and another white vehicle pulls in carrying Full House. Pablo now saunters in, but without Over Easy, who was expected to show this morning. Then the surprise of the morning comes in the form of one of the best named PAX in recent SouthWake memory…none other than Oboe.

As promised, Nemo pulls in after some exchange on Slack the night before. 6 o’clock hits and we started out of Womble parking lot onto the back lot behind the baseball fields, where Da’Business likes to do partner carries at Cletus. As we made our way to that back lot, PAX saw another car pull in and figured we’d circle back for the six so everyone knew where we were headed. For the second week in a row, it’s Yogurt coming in hot sans unicycle. Pick up Yogurt and then make it to the back lot for a warm up that went a little like this….

Warm Up: Circled up for Hillbillies X10, Imperial Walkers X10, Good Mornings IC X10. By that time H1N1 and Messi joined the mix. Mosey to the far end of the lot with butt kickers. Once to the far end, performed lunge walks across the back end of the lot. Continued back to the other side with a light mosey and high knees, and then Frankensteins to the point of origin. At the point of origin circled up for a final set of prison squats X10. Squat hold while YHC explained this morning’s workout.

The Workout: PAX would perform standard Bass Lake loop, but would be breaking the route up into 1 mi segments. For Segment 1, we would run our own pace, picking up the six when you reach the Sugg Farm gates on the way into the neighborhood to the right. We would then proceed with the same format onto the greenway, where PAX would proceed in single file formation into a scout run. The lead PAX in the scout run would venture ahead at a distance they feel comfortable with before circling back to the end of the line, then followed by the next, and so forth. We would then switch to an Indian Run before entering the entrance to Bass Lake. Once at the opening, PAX would proceed clockwise around the lake picking up the six and back to the greenway where we would alternate again between scout run and Indian Run format. Once out from the greenway, PAX would then continue back to Womble while picking up the six along the way.

Now about that “Everything feeling fine” statement. YHC was just kidding himself. By the time warm ups ended, I was far from feeling fine and as I progressed 500 yards further, my hip was on fire and it was time to shut it down. Informed trailing PAX to go on ahead and would meet them for COT. A lot of veteran HIM in attendance and was comforted in knowing that they not only knew the way, they would also know how to push each other. Unfortunately, I wouldn’t be there to see it or experience it. Continued to walk it off in a what I can only describe as a pathetic looking limp. As I made my way onto Sugg, a blaze of neon emerged and moved toward YHC. It was Yogurt to check to see if I was ok. We walked and exchanged some quality mumblechatter, which was mostly centered on knowing ones limits and not being stupid. All good lessons to follow.

Continued back to Womble and as I made it back to the lot, PAX arrived shortly after. Witnessed an incredible jailbreak at the end from the baseball fields in the distance among Pablo, Yogurt, and Oboe.  Heard H1N1 was the unfortunate winner of the last to complete the scout run and first to start the Indian Run lottery along the trail. Also, kudos exchanged to Messi for picking up the six along the trail.

Mary: Stretches OYO

Announcements: Shout out to those that ran the BRR Training Runs on Saturday. F3 Dad’s Workout next Saturday-Still need a Q.

T-Claps (Recognition): All PAX showing up this morning and leading in the absence of leadership.

Prayer: Prayers for those with injuries, Crablegs and the great work he is doing in sharing his journey with those with ALS and bringing awareness. YHC took us out.

A Tale of Two Q’s…

/in /by

Here’s what I like about Sunday’s… PAX show up, put in the effort, fellowship all around, and everyone closes the page on the previous week and puts themselves ahead of the curve heading into Monday. On Saturday, Dauber reaches out to YHC and asks for the Q. It’s his birthday week, and what better way to celebrate than with a Ruck at AGS. As we know there will be some PAX looking for running miles, we agree to split the Q, he’ll lead the warm-ups, ruck, and COT, and I’ll put together the run… Done.

Pre-Blast advertises the Ruck along with 3-2mi running routes, complete with a water station. Here’s the other thing I like about Sunday’s, the PAX that show and want to raise the standard. The ones that rise from the fartsack on a weekend, especially the ones bookend’ing their weekend fresh off of U-Turn and finishing with AGS. I am humbled by the efforts today of the 10 HIM who showed and helped celebrate the start of an exciting week long Dauber celebration.

Dauber was first to arrive this morning. Giddiness?  Anxious?  Excitement?   Not sure.  YHC shortly rolled in after, exchanged fist bumps while both making note of the unbelievably difficult time planting the shovel flags in what seems to be concrete covered in mulch.  Usual suspects this morning in the form of DawgPound and Cowboy. Followed by Redenbacher. Anybody see this guy lately? He looks like Redenbacher’s younger brother. Red truck rolled up carrying Skidmark. YHC noted this last week when sharing the impact of DoubleD’s presence in AO’s, but it should be also noted that Skidmark’s posts at AO’s have a similar feel. Not sure what it is, but maybe its that whole Master and Apprentice thing Yoda talks about in those Star Wars flicks. Now the surprise of the morning comes in the form of an SUV carrying Yogurt.  WTH?  He usually runs or unicycle’s into Womble?  Apparently, running late this morning and opted for 4-wheels. Great seeing him. Six o’clock hits and Dauber presses play to start our morning.

Warm Up:

Warm up around the track with karaoke, Frankensteins, Bitt kicks.  Circle up with only one warmup exercise:  51 SSH.  Not sure what the connection was but PAX were griping for sure.  At one point, YHC modified with M4L-styled dirty bird hops and PAX stopped counting, but Dauber was certain he landed on 51.

The Workout:

Ruck:  Dauber borrowed a kettle bell from Sir Dawgpound and added it to his ruck pack.  Two brave PAX (Sir Dawgpound and Forceps).  Great mumble chatter while getting in over 7000 steps in one hour.  We had two sightings of Coal Ash along our trek around Sugg.  Soul crusher was in decent shape and challenged PAX with its precarious footing and arduous climb.  We survived without any misfortunes and helped hydrate a PAX on his run.  Stepped up the pace and cruised into Womble parking lot at 7:05 am.

While the Ruck was in progress, YHC had a run planned that would include 3-2 mi loops beginning and ending from the Womble lot. The first of which would focus on the entire Stinson stretch.

Stinson Segment (2.0mi)

YHC lead PAX to the top of Stinson by taking a left out of the lot to the stop sign at the top of the hill. From the stop sign, PAX let it fly down the hill and then back up to the stop sign at the intersection of Bass Lake Rd., while periodically picking up the six throughout the segment. As we made our way back to the Womble lot, YHC noted that we were about 0.25 short of 2mi, so extended the run to the playground and then back. PAX hydrated at the water station and then proceeded to segment 2- Main and Raleigh

Main and Raleigh Segment (2.0 mi)

YHC lead PAX back up Stinson and onto Raleigh. Took a left on E. Ballentine to Main and carried the remainder of Main to Holly Springs Road. Right on Holly Springs Rd. and then back onto Raleigh on our way back to the lot. Strong pushes from all PAX on this segment and T-Claps to Yogurt, Skidmark, and Nemo for picking up the six. As we approached the Womble lot, YHC took a quick look at the Garmin as PAX rehydrated and confirmed we had 10min to complete the last segment.

Fields (1.0)

With only 10 min to 7am, YHC called for a 1 mi scout run, with the PAX at the front setting the standard by running his 5K\10K pace ahead of the remaining PAX. The route took us the long way around the ball fields as we veered to the right, around the fields. As we came to the intersection toward the lot, we went right and then headed to the Ivan lot and then back around the soccer fields still holding strong in scout run formation.As we reached the last 0.15, Skidmark called for a jailbreak back to the lot. This was the strongest segment of the run, with pace hovering at 9:04-9:10. Solid work by all PAX. Later check of Strava had Cowboy pacing 42 secs faster than U-Turm the day before #Strong.

For the 4 time in a row, YHC had PAX back by 7:00am on the dot as planned. Were later joined by rucking PAX and Bernie, fresh off of 9 miles and change. Great work!

Mary: Stretches OYO
Announcements: BRR planned training runs next Saturday led by Skidmark. 2nd F at Dunkin Donuts
T-Claps (Recognition): All PAX. Strong efforts by all in attendance.
Prayer: PAX with injuries and life challenges. Bernie’s stepmom who is battling a health issue.

Great message from Dauber drawing an analogy between his ruck sack and life. Drop the bag of stuff (grudges, people who have been hurtful to you or harmed you in your past, misfortunes, etc.). Get the weight you are carrying off your back.  Go forward on your journey with a clean slate.

Dauber took us out.

Dawgpound at AGS

/in /by

FNGs: None
Warm Up:

Frankenstein Kicks
High knee pulls
High Hip Pulls
Merkin Form
  • Hands Under Shoulders not up by your ears
  • Full Range of Motion
  • Elbows Stay close to your side
  • Flat back including lower back.  This is where I struggle when I’m tired.  Your butt should be tight and you core should be engaged
  • Head up, Don’t bend your head down
10 Merkins
Squat form
  • Shoulders stay over Hips
  • Do not role lower back forward
  • Keep a straight back
  • Squat down

10 Squats

The Workout:

One Indian run team
Start at parking lot run to Y at baseball field
10 Merkins
10 Squats
Indian Run left of baseball field to entrance of Wimbledon Park
10 Merkins
10 Squats
Indian Run to Bass Lake Neighborhood Entrance
10 Merkins
10 Squats
Indian Run to Bass Lake hill loop
10 Merkins
10 Squats
Hill loop repeat until 6:45
10 Merkins
10 Squats
Fellowship Run to Bass Lake Neighborhood Entrance
10 Merkins
10 Squats
Fellowship Run to entrance of Wimbledon Park
10 Merkins
10 Squats
Fellowship run to Y at baseball field
10 Merkins
10 Squats
Fellowship run to parking lot taking a detour around the soccer fields
10 Merkins
10 Squats

Mary:

Sorry no time

Announcements:

Check Slack

T-Claps (Recognition):
Prayer:

Double D and his family
Crablegs