VIRGIN LONDON MARATHON

A weak first day

2012-01-29T23:32:00.002+01:00

stats of the week: run 38km, cycled 75km, indoor cycled 45km, gym 2hrs

Today I had to learn that outdoor cycling for 3 hours is quite a different thing after just a few sessions of one-hour-indoor cycling ... Legs are weak and whole body is exhausted after the first day on the windy island of Lanzarote. I'm now curious about tomorrow's performance and rather sceptic facing 9 days of cycling.

Run and Nap

2012-01-23T00:21:00.002+01:00

stats of the week: run 51km, cycled 25km, gym 2hrs

Our usual Sunday's morning run has 16km with around 300 vertical meters and I have trotted it for more than 20 years. I am glad to be still able to do it but now the time has come I need a nap on Sunday afternoon to recover from the load.

After 10 years of publishing www.london-marathon.de I today relaunched the website. The content is just slightly updated but hopefully it's more clearly laid out now. However, only the new German version is ready. It will take 3 more weeks for the English one to come.

Feeling better being worn out

2012-01-15T23:04:00.000+01:00

stats of the week: run 45km, cycled 45km, gym 4 hrs

It was a fairly busy week, at least enough to let an elderly man feel being tired. Indoor cycling was less exhausting now and running had reasonable speed but overall feeling was like being rather worn out.

It's less than 100 days to London Marathon 2012 but still time to build up the mileage. This year's idea is to focus a bit more on speed between long slow runs.

The photo shows me worn out just about finishing New Year's Eve race which was 2011's best running performance by an age grade of 72.5.

Indoor preparing

2012-01-08T21:56:00.001+01:00

stats of the week: run 35km, cycled 40km, gym 4hrs

It wasn't a lazy week but a somewhat non-satisfying one. Running was too little, indoor cycling was too exhausting, gym was fairly ok.

However, I should feel fine with this kind of load as I usually prefer to have a rest during the first two weeks of the year. Indoor cycling isn't my favourite sort of sports but I do have to prepare now for a private 10-day training camp on the Canarian island of Lanzarote in 3 weeks.

Busy year with speedy finish

2012-01-01T22:35:00.001+01:00

stats of the week: run 45km, gym 3hrs

I didn't dare to hope it after recent races experienced. But finally and to my own surprise I did it. 26 years after my first new year's eve race, once again I ran faster than I finished my first one. 1985 I clocked 1:08:33 hrs for the 15K, yesterday it was my 20th appearance and I finished after 1:07:50 hrs. It was a tough fight and I really couldn't expect this level of performance. 5 weeks ago I only was able to keep the same speed at half the distance.

The photo shows my own medals exhibited by the organisers at the race's expo.

Surprisingly 2011 was my busiest sports year ever if you add running and cycling load.

Hawaii running experience

2011-12-24T00:02:00.000+01:00

stats of the fortnight: run 82km

Watching Honolulu Marathon was a very special experience as this is a really unusual event. Imagine that you'll have half of the participating 20,000 runners behind you when you finish after 6 hours! Official marathon terms assure that the finish will close not before the last runner has arrived. He did after more than 14 hours.

A further speciality is that there is no age limit for young runners. Japanese runners could be seen not older than around 10 years! There is even a separate age group for 15 to 17 that was won by a 15-year-old Japanese boy in 3:00:02 hours.

See Top 20 photos at picasa

Las Vegas Heli Roulette

2011-12-10T10:49:00.001+01:00

stats of the week: run 40km, gym 2hrs

Regards from my journey to the Las Vegas Marathon that showed typical development: The full distance went down from 5,000 to 3,700 runners, while the half marathon growed from 20,000 to 33,000! However, the organizers were not prepared to handle the masses. Big problems at the start to get through to the right pens, later slow half runners blocked fast marathon runners. It's a fancy race but recommended just for those who don't take it seriously.

Las Vegas strip is quite an experience for European souls. Gambling 24 hrs and an artificial world inside the hotels:

My special experience followed. After I enjoyed a helicopter flight to Grand Canyon on Monday I heard the news that just 2 days later a heli of the same company on the same route crashed near Hoover Dam with all 5 passengers perishing. That's what I ever said. Getting old is just luck.

Slowing down to year's end

2011-11-28T00:02:00.001+01:00

stats of the week: run 48km, gym 4hrs

I am not quite sure why I am significantly slower now compared to beginning of the year. I won't be able to run a 10K sub 45min right now. Maybe the year's load was just too much. Maybe it's just another step towards age. And probably I am not completely recovered from the marathon 3 weeks ago.

Today's short double race of 7.5K and 5K let no wonder happen. Sanity suggests to have a couple of weeks for recover and cautiously build up the new year's schedule. Alas - there is another wearisome journey coming and then there's the always prominent New Year's Eve Race. The break has to wait until January.

Top 100 in New York City

2011-11-23T14:34:00.001+01:00

stats of the week: run 41km, cycled 25km, gym 4hrs

Although not running myself the New York City marathon, I had a great time photographing the runners and seeing all the happy faces.
At least I was able to take part in a real race - the inaugural "5K dash to the finish line". Actually it is quite sad that organisers abandoned the traditional friendship run on Saturday morning. Instead they set up a 5K race which was a success if you see more than 5,000 participants who paid at least 25$ while the former friendship run was free for marathoners. But the new 5K race cannot make up for the good atmosphere of the friendship jog. And the new "Parade of the Nations" on a very cold Friday evening wasn't real fun for spectators.

Just six days after Dublin Marathon I was happy to do a proper 5K race in 22:21 min without any pain. This let me be placed 7th of 114 in my age group. The official result list also shows age grade times and places which is very nice for the elderly like me. Taken age graded times (18:17) I made it into the Top 100 of the 5,000 runners field!

Manhattan Premiere

2011-11-16T14:46:00.001+01:00

stats of the fortnight: run 10K

It was my 7th trip to the New York City Marathon - with the first time not running myself. However, it was also the first time I learned to sort of love Manhattan. Saturday afternoon I rented a bike and cycled all along Hudson River to Battersea Park, crossed Brooklyn Brigde, rested on Brooklyn Heights, back over Manhattan Bridge and right through China Town and Greenwich. For the first time this sunny autumn day showed me an inviting city of Big Apple.

People listening to a voluntary piano player on Washington Square:

Resting on Brooklyn heights with a view of Downtown Manhattan:

Friendly weekend

2011-11-05T04:12:00.001+01:00

The friendly marathon at Dublin was really enjoyable like the entire weekend was.
My personal race had a reasonable start but due to cramps and exhaustion I lost 5 minutes on the final 5km. Once crossed the finish line I doubted that I would make it back to the hotel but within minutes a bottle of coke set me back alive. I think that the lack of salt was the main reason for my problems because I sweat a lot and lost to much fluid and minerals.

Both my marathons this year ended up with disappointing results. However I am still grateful for all the adventures I am able to undergo.

I bashfully forgot to publish my time: 3:48 hrs.

Final Fluid

2011-10-31T00:14:00.000+01:00

Stats of the week: run 32km, gym 2hrs

This is my personal preparation for tomorrow's Halloween Marathon at Dublin.
After a week of missed training it's time to keep to the most promising items.

Keep your fingers crossed. Your support is highly appreciated - in fact it's necessary.

True Saying

2011-10-23T22:16:00.000+02:00

stats of the week: run 16km, gym 4 hrs

It's one week to go till Dublin Halloween Marathon and I've lost a whole week of training due to a strained hamstring. I am not really concerned about the missed workouts but getting free of pain in time. Usually a slightly strained muscle should be fit again within 3 or 4 days but this time 6 days are already gone without a full recovery.

One of my repetitive sayings proves true again: It's more difficult to get to the start line than to the finish line.

Competing with last year

2011-10-17T19:08:00.000+02:00

stats of the week: 52 km, gym 5 hrs

Luckily the knee recovered along the week and I decided to do my long run within a hilly race called Teutolauf which I took part in for the 5th time. Like previous year I got caught by the competition and ran faster than planned. In the end I finished the 29km distance after 2:29:40 hrs - surprisingly 7 minutes faster than last year what is quite a difference.

To improve a last year's time has been an unknown experience for years. Therefore my face matched the day's sunshine. Last weekend someone blamed me for never being happy after a race. This time I was.

Setback by Mail and Knee

2011-10-10T00:03:00.003+02:00

stats of the week: run 61km, cycled 70km, gym 1.5h

London Marathon 2012 ballot results have been sent out recent week. Same procedure as every year since 2000. For the 13th time I have been rejected by the international lottery. For Germany there are very few entries available via the ballot. No official figures are published, I guess there are about 20 bibs for us per year. Needless to say that the additional 300 entries via travel agency are already sold out (one is for me).

I was able to do my first long run in preparation for Dublin. 30K on Tuesday went well but I faced a setback yesterday. While properly running our local half marathon I felt a strong meniscus pain during the final 3k and I had to limp to the finish. Now I'm slightly concerned how this problem will develop while more training for Dublin is to be done.

Breathless work

2011-10-03T23:05:00.001+02:00

stats of the week: run 54km, gym 2hrs

Despite the work for our Sunday charity run Sterntaler-Lauf I managed to do the scheduled mileage. On most of my runs I felt breathless with some pain around the lungs but it always got better while slowly running longer.

Our charity run was still a success although numbers were down from 900 to 700 applicants compared to last year. Notably the walking boom - a German speciality - seems to settle now. However, we were very happy with a busy day and the visitors' good mood.

Coming to terms with past records

2011-09-27T00:39:00.001+02:00

stats of the week: run 54km, gym 3hrs

By the way did you notice that according to new IAAF rules men are still allowed to set world records by the help of male pacemakers while women are not?

8 years ago Paula Radcliffe behaved according to valid IAAF rules and ran a fabulous 2:15:25 world record. Now some elderly so-called officials write backdated laws and cancel her performance. Athletes should in return retract these officials' salaries for the past 8 years.

My personal previous week's performance was somewhat disillusioning. Taking part in the traditional Bertlich road races I tried to do my very best on the 15K distance. I had to face that my speed was lower than at the recent double 10K race. It was one of the days you realise that running could be more enjoyable without competitions.

However, after 11K I had to take a very deep cough of the ugliest kind - and a minute later I could breath again and increase the speed for the final 3K to finish after still disappointing 1:10:20. I found myself aware that I had not yet recovered from the recent infection.

Time Out

2011-09-19T00:19:00.001+02:00

stats of the week: run 20km, cycled 114km

Last Sunday's malaise developed to a mild illness probably caused by a foodborne infection I caught in a Dortmund snack bar. At least I was finally able to do a season closing bike tour today.
Six weeks to go until my autumn marathon in Dublin/Ireland. I feel I should now think about setting up a training schedule and build up the mileage. Program is to do two long runs of 30km. I hope this will make me finish well clearly sub 4 hrs. To be honest I hope to run 3:45 hrs. I know it will be tough as my season was long and hard and it will be difficult to build up another peak of performance.

16 laps down town Dortmund

2011-09-12T23:13:00.000+02:00

stats of the week: run 54km, cycled 96km, gym 3hrs

A proper training week ended up with an unscheduled double 10k race! Now I know I shouldn't have done it. Performance was fine, determination was too high. As planned I ran the 10k aside of B. Like always her speed was impressive and we finished after 49:30 min.

I had already carried this spleen in my mind - to run the following 10k, too, which was open to runners sub 50 min. It would have been okay if I had slowed down to around 48 min but once started my determination developed. I clocked the first kilometer in 4:26 min and now tried to keep the pace. Finish time was 45:03.

2 hours later I found myself in breathlessness, high heartrate, nausea and stomach problems. The symptoms still stay the following day what let me accept a low key week now.

Smiling only after request:

It's not as easy as it looks:

My typical finish, this time too hard:

Sunday Suffer

2011-09-06T00:28:00.000+02:00

stats of the week: run 47km, cycled 313km

On Sunday morning I had to learn that my legs and lungs had not yet recovered from the midweek bike tour. Right from the start I suffered running the Bochum Half Marathon.

After half the distance I had to let fellow G run ahead and what was left ended up in a struggle to get to the finish in sort of style. Everybody was affected by the humid and hot weather conditions but for me it was mainly the self made fatigue that made me slow down seriously. During the final 5km I was overtaken by at least 50 runners. Having crossed the finish line after 1:45:35 I felt like I had done a full marathon.

Photo shows me still alongside G before soon falling back.

Trans Sauerland

2011-09-02T22:38:00.003+02:00

After I had to cancel the cycling marathon Dortmund-Winterberg a fortnight ago, the idea didn't let me go. This week I decided to do it on my own - eased on two consecutive days but with a longer distance as I started and finished at home in Witten with an overnight stay at Altastenberg which is Northrhine-Westfalias highest village at 790m.
First day had 149km and 1730 vertical meters, second day summed up 163km and 1560 vm.

Lunch stop at Möhne Reservoir. It is famous for its war history when the dam was destroyed by British Bombers in 1943 and about 1,600 people lost their lives.

The beautifully placed village of Hirschberg is known for its medieval witch hunts.

One has to climb the tower of the Kahler Asten to get to Westfalias highest point. The peak itself (841m) is only second highest while nearby Langenberg is 2m higher.

The route is a chain of short ups and downs. Below is the touristic village of Wenholthausen.

Sauerland is a low mountain range with extensive forestry industry and tourism in winter and summer. This is the view close to the village of Hövel.

I have to admit this tour was'nt the best preparation to run a half marathon in Bochum next Sunday. But this one must not be missed as it takes place on the streets of my childhood. I have ever thought about dying while running - this one would be one of my favourite events to pass away.

London 2012 calling

2011-08-28T23:03:00.000+02:00

stats of the week: run 37km, cycled 181km, gym 2hrs

It's still 237 days to go until London Marathon 2012 but German travel agency interAir has already sold out its tickets! Obviously this is caused by the hype around the 2012 Olympics. Everybody seems to want to run London in the Olympic year. Alas, the traditional London Marathon will be held as usual and its route is totally different. The only similarity is the finish on the Mall - reason enough to feel like an Olympic runner on April 22.

Considerate disease

2011-08-21T23:03:00.000+02:00

stats of the week: run 45km, cycled 180km, gym 1hr

Still suffering from lumbago but the physiotherapist assured that it always is healthy to move ... So I did and was very happy that pain only occured when resting!

The week culminated in a surprising 20km hilly trailrun where I luckily won my age group. I not only felt happy about my unexpected performance but just as well to receive a bottle of sparkling wine - although I prefer the red still option.

Less enjoyable was the repeated experience when a 67-year-old asked me whether I'd share his age group ...

Modest times

2011-08-16T22:05:00.000+02:00

stats of the week: run 22km, cycled 86km, gym 2hrs

After all the successful days of recent weeks it was time to become modest again. I was struck by another lumbago problem - the 2nd this year. No more thoughts about doing a cycling marathon ...

However, there is a way to stand days without sports: red wine and salty crisps.

Long end of cycling season

2011-08-07T23:42:00.004+02:00

stats of the week: run 36km, cycled 246km, gym 3.5hrs

Those who know the Sauerland - a hilly freshwater area nearby - would think that "extreme" is not the proper adjective to be connected with this part of the country.

The subtitle sounds sort of bloody-minded but don't be fooled. It's just a bike tour for everybody - a bit longer than usual I have to admit. Actually it would make my longest bike ride ever: 253km! - if I really will make the attempt next Saturday. Start is at 6am, finish closes at 8pm. I like this kind of long days.

Too many tempting challenges

2011-07-31T23:46:00.004+02:00

stats of the week: run 22km, cycled 326km, gym 2hrs

Somehow this week developed the other way round. Lots of more cycling and too little running. Actually I couldn't resist to do another local bike event today. 150 km of hilly cycling in a lovely green area between the towns of Bonn and Siegen where I have never been before although it's just an hour's drive from home.

However, I have entered a half marathon on Sept 4. That should force me to turn to running now. Otherwise there is a very tempting local cycling event in mid August ...

Old boy - I am 58 and there should be some more things in life than just sports ... those things will come up anyway I guess.

Mix season

2011-07-24T23:37:00.003+02:00

stats of the week: run 23km, cycled 42km, gym 3hrs

Getting back to running was sort of ardous after weeks of just cycling exercises. I am already missing the longer bike rides and refrain from deciding to bring an end to my cycling season and swap to running.

So I'll try to practice a mixture of 3 running and 2 cycling workouts per week. Hope this will enable me to do a couple of more bike events (there is a new dream) and soon start into the autumn running season.

L'etape du Torture

2011-07-20T23:53:00.009+02:00

stats of the week: cycled 270km
L'etape du Tour acte 2, Issoire - St-Flour, 210km, 3,800 vm, 10.38h

Regarding my 3rd L'etape du Tour my intention was not to take it as a race but to see the beautiful volcanic landscape of the Massif Central and have an enjoyable long day on the bike.

However, the story turned out to be very different. Being warned by the weather forecast 3,000 of 7,000 applied participants refrained from starting. With good cause. Strong head winds, persistant rain and low temperature (4°c at the first pass) let more than 1,000 cyclists abandon their race until the first food station after 68km. Finally of 4,053 who started only 1,982 made it to the finish line before the strict closing at 7pm.

I managed to arrive at 6.09 pm - it was an all-day-fight to get there in time after 10.38 hrs. Adding to the weather conditions the route was even tougher than I expected. 3,800 vertical meters with a steepest ascent of 20% was more than I had anticipated. Anyway - these are the kind of days one will remember forever.

Lovely Day in the Dolomites

2011-07-13T22:41:00.008+02:00

stats of the week: run 16km, cycled 288km
Maratona dles Dolomites: 138km, 4100 vertical meters, 7:51 hrs

It might sound amazing but a tough event can be lovely. The Maratona dles Dolomites is Italia's most popular cycling event, welcoming 9,000 participants. Organisation lovely, volunteers lovely, landscape lovely, race tough.

After the introductory "Kindergarden" lap around the Sella hills I was so exhausted that I doubted to make it to the finish without walking. Giau Pass is a real challenge, however in the upper part I felt stronger and finally I reached my target to finish sub 8 hours and qualify for 3rd pen next year. Alas - my speed was slower than last year. I was just faster because of less and shorter breaks at the food stations.

Now I look forward to doing the next ride. Target is merely to enjoy the beautiful landscape of the Massif Central and the L'etape du Tour Act 2 from Issoire to St. Flour. The professionals did it last Sunday and warned us by numerous accidents ... The distance is 210km and the finish closes after 12 hours. It's going to be a long day. Lovely.

Proud seniors

2011-07-06T22:19:00.003+02:00

stats of the week: cycled 917km, 19,553 vertical meters, 45:20 hrs

7 days of alpine cycling are finished! We made it. Every day we were nervous before the start, every day we were happy to arrive safely at the finish. It was tough, but not as tough as I expected it to be. However, looking at the photo presenting the finisher shirt I have to admit I looked very worn out.

Impressions are numerous! I saw beautiful areas I didn't know before: Lech valley, Silvretta High Street, Vinschgau High Street, the unique Mortirolo Pass, finally the wonderful countryside of the Italian Trentino.

I learnt that the Tour was regarded by the very most participants as a real race - even by the ones who made the middle and the end of the pack. Most of them reduced their time spent at the feed stations to the shortest needed. They stucked in the food whithout taking time to chew and jumped on the bike again.

The way the winners were celebrated was rather amazing. Senior males showed their pride like small boys. A salutary experience for a distant participant. Alas, I have to admit I looked quite similar showing my finisher shirt!

But there is some reason to be proud: We reached our target to be at least second last of the peloton. We ended up on place 71 of initially 111 senior teams (>100 years), adequately called "Grand Masters".

If you like to have a look there is a small Picasa Gallery.

Start's Eve - Ready for stage I

2011-06-25T22:07:00.005+02:00

stats of the week: run 10km, cycled 185km

Team "Ruhrtal-Renner" on the day before the start. The first stage has just one serious climb up the Hahntennjoch (1903m) but it's a heavy one. Excitement gets even too high now and we are happy to be able to get off tomorrow morning. Organisers have placed us in the 3rd of 4 pens but we prefer to start at the very end of the field. After tomorrow's 120km and 2400 vertical meters we'll see a bit further and get a feeeling if Team 352 can follow the peloton.

Daily results can be looked up at www.tourtransalp.de

Awaiting Alpine Fun

2011-06-19T23:16:00.005+02:00

stats of the week: run 27km, cycled 215km, gym 2hrs

Including tomorrow's final ride I will have summed up roughly 3,000km of cycling with 33,000 meters of height difference. According to available advice this is just the lowest reasonable mileage you should have put in to get through the Tour Transalp.

Alpine race cycling is similar to life - you need a bit of luck to survive. So many things can happen without a chance to have an impact on them. My first target is to enjoy every single day - and if don't get to the finish I will have had some fun at least.

To ensure the enjoyment I bought some buttocks salve. With 6 to 8 hours sitting on the bike I might need it. The fun starts next Sunday.

Hill of Pleasure

2011-06-12T23:04:00.004+02:00

stats of the week: run 7 km, cycled 353 km, gym 2 hrs

Today was the first day that I felt a glimpse of confidence that I could be able to get through the Alpine bike week. Two weeks to go and maybe my body is just in time to be ready. Did two very hilly workouts in a row and legs felt okay.

A medical checkup I had this week suggested that I should put in more proteins and also my ferrite level could be lifted. That's what I practised in recent days and perhaps the result is increasing power.

Yesterday I ticked off a local hill I ever longed for - the notorious Wixberg - a pleasurably 14 per cent climb.

Doubts arising

2011-06-05T22:26:00.007+02:00

stats of the week: run 14km, cycled 493km, gym 2hrs

I know there are people in town who smile at me and think I should better give away my transalp number to younger and real sportsmen. Initially this motivated me even more. But the closer race day comes the more I have to admit they might be right. I am training really hard - but without the desired result. Actually I lost 2 kilos of weight during recent fortnight. Sounds good to get to race level - but I feel the power gone with it.

Photo shows 4 of our local Maratona dles Dolomites quintet. The famous bike race celebrates its jubilee of 25 years on 10 July.

Only watching Stockholm

2011-05-31T23:45:00.007+02:00

stats of the week: run 24km, cycled 204km, gym 2hrs

Stockholm certainly offers one the world's most beautiful marathons. For any dedicated runner it can only be hard to watch it without having the chance to take part. At least I was able to do two short training runs along the coastline and rent a bike for a two-hour-sightseeing tour. It was an enjoyable weekend although with too cold temperatures.

The oncoming week now should see me doing more cycling! 4 weeks to go ...

A week to remember

2011-05-23T00:01:00.006+02:00

stats of the week: run 21km, cycled 255km, gym 3hrs

The week will be kept in mind as the one when a 3-year-old called me "old grand-pa" and a fellow runner asked if I was in age group 60. The latter has happened to me since a decade of years and is less hurting now as there are just 2 years to become a member of this club.

This also was the week when I have run my best 5K (21:37) since 4 years what is quite satisfying after I have reduced my mileage to one or two workouts per week.

Regarding cycling it is still the same thing: I haven't done enough but I have done what was possible.

All I can do may not be enough

2011-05-16T13:32:00.006+02:00

stats of the week: run 14km, cycled 377km, gym 1.5hrs

Six weeks left to prepare for Tour Transalp but I feel way off to be ready for the challenge. After a hilly ride of 120km on Friday I was still worn out the next morning. This was even less than any of the 7 stages will demand! However, I can't do more than recent week and feel satisfied with the bike mileage.

On a leisurely bike trip throug East Westphalia I passed a stork sitting in his airy nest:

Watching runners in sunshine

2011-05-08T23:41:00.005+02:00

stats of the week: run 20km, cycled 197km, gym 1.5hrs

Watching and photographing the Dusseldorf Marathon today was nearly as exhausting as running it would have been. Staying in bright sunshine all day let me come home worn out.
You might like to have a look at the gallery.

Since long I have wished to go to this landmark when passing along the motorway. A visitor from Hongkong now made me climb it finally. It was worth the visit. The Tetraeder Viewpoint:

8 weeks to the challenge

2011-05-01T23:03:00.005+02:00

stats of the week: run 10km, cycled 330km, gym 2 hrs

As expected the 2012 ballot is closed already. At least it was open for nearly two whole days this time. I once again applied for the overseas lottery - for the 13th time, probably in vain as 12 times before.

After a close study of the calendar I cancelled my appearance at today's 10K race around the local lake. I had to accept that I should concentrate on cycling now. No time to bath in disappointment any longer. There are only 8 weeks to get ready for my biggest ever challenge.

2012 race starts

2011-04-25T22:54:00.006+02:00

My stats of the week: run 13km, cycled 104km

Don't miss the opening of the 2012 ballot tomorrow morning. Unfortunately there is no information about the exact time of the opening. Last year it was around midnight. For 2011 125,000 applicants were accepted for the national ballot, 5,500 for the overseas one. 46,698 numbers were provided but less than half of them via the ballot.

Date of next year's race is 22 April. Good luck!

Black Marathon Day

2011-04-23T23:57:00.008+02:00

stats of the week: run 56km
London Marathon result: 3:57:13

I finished my 32nd marathon and 12th London. That's all to notice. It was the worst race I ever did. Don't ask me why. I don't know. I think it was just my personal black marathon day.

I started the race highly determined but had to recognise first problems after only 10km. Serious problems occurred after 25km and soon I had to stop aside to vomit. However, I never thought about giving up and walked most of the remaining miles while I anxiously watched fellow runners dropping down to the tarmac. That's how I looked during the final stage:

Nevertheless I performed a smile having received the medal.

B did far better and finished her fastest marathon for five years! She made up for my desaster.

She received her well earned congratulations by Emmanuel Mutai (KEN), winner 2011 and course record holder.

BIB age race

2011-04-10T22:45:00.007+02:00

stats of the week: run 42km, gym 3hrs

Proudly I present my bib number I wore on our local 10k race according to my birthday. The race consisted of 4 laps thereof I ran three ones at marathon pace and the final one as fast as I could. The result was 47:32 min. Next Sunday I hope to run my 12th London Marathon but I think it's the first time I was able to realise the scheduled mileage. Now I am highly scared to catch a cold or an injury during the final week. I just would prefer to stay inside all week ...

Peak week

2011-04-03T23:03:00.012+02:00

stats of the week: run 65km, gym 1.5 hrs
Meanwhile I have lived in this flat at the second floor for almost 17 years and all the time I have fed the birds in winter. Finally a squirrel discovered the peanuts I put out every morning. I could not yet see how it manages to get up to the balcony built as part of the roof.

The third week before your marathon race should be the peak of your training. So was mine. Taken the 7 days from Sunday to Saturday I gathered 86km which is among the most intensive weeks I ever ran. However, the older you get the more you have to run to keep your performance just on the same level. In vain as I had to learn. After yesterday's long run of 30km I was even more exhausted than after recent races.

More than a come back

2011-03-27T23:44:00.021+02:00

stats of the week: run 45k, gym 3hrs

Venloop Half Marathon 1:38:35

My today's half marathon race at Venlo one can simply regard as an old runner's sort of come back. To me it meant much, much more. It was not just a successful race - it was a significant step forward (and back) into life. Last time I raced in the Netherlands it was a nice weekend with A at The Hague and running the City Pier City race in March 2008. I remembered this while running and imagined how A would enjoy it to see me feeling happy again being in the race. These kind of thoughts strengthened me throughout the miles. I just imagined A standing by and photographing me like she did for dozens of races along decades. Of course she only was there in my thoughts but it helped a lot to know she'd like me to be a happy runner again. I finally just equalled my age graded PB! If I had known this I could have pressed myself a bit more ...

Struggling in vain

2011-03-22T00:02:00.004+01:00

stats of the week: run 73km, gym 2hrs

Every 5 years the finisher's medal of the Syltlauf is a piece of art:

I ran the 33K race just one minute slower than previous year. It sounds ok and is certainly an improvement compared to recent experiences. However, it was a tough struggle for the final 5K and I was totally exhausted after having crossed the finish line. In contrast to B who reached the finish only 20 secs behind me but she wasn't worn out at all and bounced around happily while I was close to a breakdown.

The dismal conclusion is that despite my workouts comply to the schedule my performance doesn't come up to the level where it should be.

Going North

2011-03-13T22:08:00.008+01:00

stats of the week: run 65km, gym 3hrs

With just 5 weeks to go to London Marathon day, time seems to be going by faster than ever. However, the recent week was the first one to let me hope for sort of a come back. A proper long run midweek and a decent hilly workout today ... that's a promising sign.

Plans for next Sunday are to take part in a 33K race along Germany's most fashionable island - Sylt. The run depends very much on the weather as the place is far north and exposed to the winds. I already did it four times and enjoyed it. So I look forward to getting back to gladsome days.

The race always is sold out about 10 months before race date. I don't tell you how to get in now ...

Turkey Trip

2011-03-08T22:06:00.006+01:00

stats of the week: run 53km, gym 2 hrs

Last weekend I made my first ever visit to Turkey where I guided a group of interAir guests around the Antalya Marathon. We had two sunny and summer like days before Sunday. The view of the Taurus mountains which rise up to 3,700m was magnificent. Open minded people and a very modern city life contradicted my prejudice of a still to be developed state of law.

Sunday's weather was different. The start line was flooded and runners had to wade across the timing mats.

Turkish Handan Eser (133) is leading the pack and finally wins her age group F50 after 3:27 hrs.

For those of you who like to see more photos there is a gallery.

Regarding my own sports week I wasn't satisfied with my workouts. My legs' muscels were still hardened and I missed the scheduled long run.

The older the slower

2011-02-27T22:27:00.004+01:00

stats of the week: run 44km, gym 4 hrs
half marathon: 1:44:38

I had to skip Thursday's workout after the treadmill intervals made my thigh harden for a couple of days. No reason to be concerned about. But today's half marathon race let me once again face that recent months left their marks on my performance. The pace of 5 min/km (8min/mile) was according to schedule but my state wasn't. It's hard to notice that I am 7 minutes slower for half marathon compared to last year. Now my London target of 3:30 no longer seems to be realistic.

Long run without choice

2011-02-20T22:09:00.007+01:00

stats of the week: run 55km, gym 2hrs

This was my afternoon meal after today's long run of 2.5 hours. It has been my longest run done since early November last year. So I am glad I was able to complete it without physical problems. It was even longer than scheduled for this week but B was convinced she had to do it and I was asked for escort. No choice!

The London Marathon is famous for the Guinness World Record attempts, runners go for every year. German born London resident Uli Kilian is going to raise money for prostate cancer while solving 100 Rubik's cubes during the marathon! See his website and think about donating.

Slow week

2011-02-13T21:35:00.003+01:00

stats of the week: run 54km, gym 4hrs

The week's mileage is fine but it wasn't more than an ardous trot all the time as I suffered from a cold. Don't worry, there was no fever and I kept my heart rate low while running - so I think I was ok with it. With 9 weeks to go to London I now hope for more quality training in upcoming weeks.

More start than finish

2011-02-06T22:10:00.005+01:00

stats of the week: run 34km, cycled 320km

Did the usual 7.5K february race today and felt it was okay. Nothing spectacular, just ordinary running only a bit slower than recent years. I really can confirm what fellow H said while running: Mental condition is vital for physical activities. I havn't yet got back the head for running close to the limit. It will take more time to run free of thoughts about how life will go on. It may sound strange but my biggest achievement today was to reach the start line.

The weekly mileage looks limping but there were also 400K of very hilly cycling added to this. So I feel confidence to equal the schedule next week.

Island report

2011-02-04T23:37:00.007+01:00

stats of the week so far: run 25km, cycled 320km

Folks,

I'm glad to report of a successful week of training on the Canarian island of Fuerteventura. I've to admit it's a rather barren sort of landscape. However, passing its central mountains I imagined it could be Northern Scotland if it would just be greener and wetter.

Our southern hotel was'nt conveniently situated for cycling as the first 17km were the same every day out and back. Therefore it was also sort of training for psychological stamina.

Regarding my personal circumstances I'm happy that I had proper week of sports what makes kind of a start to a new year and a different life.

Sunny interval

2011-01-31T23:26:00.006+01:00

stats of the week: run 34km, cycled 78km, gym 4hrs

With a little help of Diclofenac our Fuerteventura cycling week started promising. The first two days saw fellow F and me doing 180km with an ascent of more than 3,000 meters of height difference. The island offers really challenging routes, actually a bit too tough at the begin of season. So we take it easy and slow but it is still exhausting.

Anyone looking for cycling early season in the sun I still would recommend to go to Lanzarote which is more convenient to start the new year's training. However, my target is to see all seven Canarian islands and Fuerteventura was my second last to visit. The only one now missing is El Hierro, the smallest one, not a cycler's destination but good walking area.

Cautious schedule

2011-01-23T22:26:00.005+01:00

stats of the week: run 47km, gym 3.5 hrs

The week's mileage looks fine. Speed is still rather low but is improving. The only nuisance is that my back doesn't recover. For running it's okay but I doubt that I'll be able to have a good cycling week on Fuerteventura next week.

I'm going to ask the doc for another deep injection behind my spine and go for a session of osteopathy.

So far I refrain from setting a time goal for London but this is a rough schedule for the final 12 weeks:

New year with Hilde

2011-01-16T21:49:00.006+01:00

stats of the week: run 35km

The week's achievement looks better than I feel. However, it's a start at least and I'm going to set up a schedule to prepare for London. The 12-week-countdown will start next weekend.

This is Hilde. She's a lovely elderly lady and a designated new member of the family.

Sports year not yet started

2011-01-08T22:28:00.003+01:00

Sorry folks,

still no sports to be reported. Seems the recent days were too much of a load and my back reacted by suffering from a lumbago. To add to that I caught a persevering viral infection.

Therefore it's now nearly 2 months that I havn't done any proper running. We'll see how the new year goes on. It's still 14 weeks to go to London Marathon.

Personal notice

2010-12-29T22:43:00.004+01:00

Dear folks,

I've started running again. It doesn't make sense to stop it. Just like there's no sense to keep on running. Therefore the better choice is to run.

Did you ever think about the fact that every day many thousands of people and creatures pass away? Several religious theories try to help around reality. I admit faith might be helpful to cope with facts we find hard to accept. As an act of courtesy I visited a couple of religious services during recent days. I'm still convinced life is just a chemical process and soul is missionary's invention. However I can't explain feelings after suddenly having lost the person I spent half of my life with.

Those of you knowing me personally may have a look at Angelika's memorial page.

All the best for 2011. Have fun and run!

Age Group: MOM

2010-12-05T23:49:00.007+01:00

stats of the week: 2hrs indoor cycling, 5hrs gym, no running!

Wednesday noon, I'm sitting in front of the computer. I'm nervous. What I intend to do is mad. Two minutes later it's done.

I'm in. We're in. Frank and me have entered the Transalp Tour 2011.
7 days of cycling, 935km, 20,000 altitude meters. Life is best when doing crazy things, isn't it?

Our class is called "Grand Masters", for two men counting at least 100 years. Thx for this, more accurate would be "Mad Old Men".

Photo: Stelvio Pass is part of the route. I did it twice, but this time I'll have to be fit the next day, too ...

Focussing on 2011

2010-11-28T22:10:00.002+01:00

stats of the week: indoor cycling 3hrs, gym 1hr

Until yesterday I'd have said that I don't miss running. After a sunny Sunday it's a different thing. I can't stand Sundays without running.

Much the worse the pain didn't lessen as the enormous bruise has nearly disappeared what is a sign that bone or joint is damaged. I guess there will be no more running this year.

To cope with frustration I entered two 2011 bike races: Maratona dles Dolomites and the 2nd leg of L'etape du tour.

No Sports

2010-11-24T23:10:00.004+01:00

stats of the week: run 10km, indoor cycled 45min

Back home I intended to have some days of rest but not that many. Not enough I caught a cold but I accidentily damaged my toe when kicking the stubborn hoover - alas, the machine turned out to be heavier than expected.

Looks like it'll take some more days to get back to the roads. I still hope that nothing is broken.

Sunny degeneration

2010-11-17T21:37:00.008+01:00

stats of the week: run 30km

For running in shorts last time of the year I was sent to Miami Beach by interAir.

In Miami Beach everybody's main ambition is looking good. It's amazing how far people can degenerate in overdeveloped civilisation.

Nature is not too far away, a trip to the touristic Gator Park showed. A white egret.

Baby alligators measure only a few inches.

50 years later they look like this one. Adults grow up to 6 meters and get nearly 100 years old.
They always seem to be smiling. Really self-reliant animals.

A kind of swamp hen is the Purple Gallinule:

Art Deco night life at Ocean Drive, Miami Beach:

Don't worry, it's a veggie burger, of course.

A decent one

2010-11-11T05:51:00.008+01:00

stats of the week: run 63km
NYC marathon 3:41:42 hrs

New York City still is the world's runners' home. Almost 45,000 finishers on a chilly but sunny day, sadly not including Haile Gebrselassie but luckily including me! Well, I didn't need to win it, I only hoped for a decent race. It turned out to be one of my better ones. I set off on 3:40 speed and was able to keep to it nearly to the end. I only lost a couple of minutes during the final 5km.

Waiting early morning at Fort Wadsworth for the start at 9.40am:

The photo everyone takes. Run off at blue start along Verrazano bridge. Haile was just 50meter ahead - until the gun shot.

Crossing Polaski bridge at halfway point, with a view of Manhattan:

Proudly presenting my sixth NYC medal. It will be the last one for a while.

Memorial Marathon

2010-11-01T03:49:00.006+01:00

stats of the week: run 21km

After last Sunday's long run in Dublin my thigh once again hardened and forced me to rest. I don't worry any more ... I'll just give it a try next Sunday in New York City. We'll see what happens.

Regards from Washington where I again guide an interAir group of runners around the marathon. It's quite a big event with 22,000 finishers on the classic distance and additional 7,000 on the 10K. With very few people from abroad it's a very American day. The race is organised by the Marines ... I have never seen so many wheel chair participants in a marathon. It's truly the army's day.

Washington appears to me as the world's capital of heroism and patriotism. It's not a common city - it's a museum of war glorification. As a European visitor you try hard to get along with it.

Marine Corps Marathon

A friendly place to be

2010-10-25T00:02:00.005+02:00

stats of the week: run 41km, gym 2hrs

With more visits to the hospital my mileage kept rather limited. I now got the feeling I had to reduce my NYC target in direction of 4 hrs. A 10-mile-run today let my legs hurt quite a lot and I don't think I'm in the state of running a satisfying marathon. However, I'm not really focussed on running these days.

Regards from Dublin where I guide a group of interair runners doing the 31st Dublin Marathon. It's promoted "the friendly marathon" and I admit that's perfectly right. Irish people are the most friendliest at least within Europe, the event is very well organised without being restrictive in any way. From the expo via friendship run to the marathon and the post race party, it's easy going all the way. It's my 4th time to watch it. Next year I want to run it!

Is there any other place in the world but Dublin where people queue to get into a bookshop?!

Today's Dublin is modern and vivid.

Next year the marathon takes place on Halloween!

Race the training

2010-10-17T22:21:00.009+02:00

stats of the week: run 42km, gym 3hrs

It was a week of obstacles with a happy end. It took my muscles half the week to recover from last weekend's half marathon. Then I caught my first cold of the year but got over it in time to be fit again to do another race! I intended to do it as the scheduled long training run. Alas - like most times when training within a race the run resulted in higher speed than it was planned. However, I enjoyed 2.5 hrs of running through the beautiful countryside of the Teutoburger Wald.

This photo was taken after 6km. Interesting to see that the young lady to the very left is the one who finished just behind me after 29km.

Finishing 11th in my age group is nothing to be proud of ... but is reason enough to be very happy. There were just 41 chaps of my age doing the distance on a rather tough route. You are even more grateful being that fit when you see a person close to you struggling to be able to walk.

Run and move

2010-10-11T00:05:00.011+02:00

stats of the week: run 41km, cycled 118km, gym 2hrs

With 4 weeks to go to New York it was a convienent weekend to test my speed on half the distance at our home town event, the Ruhrtal-Marathon. There was even a group from UK at the start, some runners from the Cambridge area.

Finishing after 1:38:35 I was just 1 minute slower than 2 years ago. Projecting this to a full distance leads to time of around 3:35 hrs. This allows another 10 min for the hills of Manhattan and my target of 3:45. I still have to build up more performance to be on a safer side.

Yesterday's photos - Fighting to the finish line (it was downhill):

It wasn't my ranking what made me standing on the podium! The audiance serenaded to celebrate 10 years of http://www.laufen-in-witten.de/! I was moved but didn't feel really comfortable ...

Preparing for the Blue Day

2010-10-03T22:47:00.004+02:00

stats of the week: run 49km, cycled 103km, gym 4hrs

Finally it was my first somewhat good week since long. Completed an interval workout on the treadmill and a long run on Sunday morning.

Only 5 weeks left until New York City Marathon! I am happy to be placed at the Blue Start, 1st wave. Blue is best, it is the one where the professionals start and where you experience the opening ceremonial at its best.

Beginner's excuses

2010-09-27T23:28:00.002+02:00

stats of the week: run 24km, cycled 100km

I'm very unhappy with this week's schedule. The kind of excuses reminds of beginners: bad weather and lack of time. Organising our charity run, helping with school homework and A still staying at the hospital, all this let me seek in vain for time to do some training.

At least I was able to adjust my new bike successfully and enjoyed a speedy ride. I was pleased to feel more safe on the new bike than on the old one. Freehand driving is much easier. The frame seems to be firmer and more smooth. I look forward now to racing the Alps next season.

Setback

2010-09-20T22:30:00.005+02:00

stats of the week: run 20km, cycled 30km, gym 5hrs

Reviewing the recent week I have to admit running a sudden marathon was a setback while preparing for New York. My muscels are still complaining and my overall fitness hasn't come back, nor has my mood recovered.

It's only 7 weeks to go and I was hoping to run a decent time on Nov 7. The 3 recent ones at NYC were 3:39 - 3:41 - 3:43. Logically I am aiming for a 3:45 this time.

It even didn't help my mood to buy a new race bike:

A first 30k-ride left me behind feeling not really happy with it. The new Ultegra Group seems to need more adjustment and the carbon finish doesn't look perfectly done. There have to come bad times sometimes ...

Neat and enjoyable

2010-09-15T22:53:00.006+02:00

Stats of the week: run 72km, gym 1hr

Running a marathon on the top of our heads turned out to be doable. Conceding a couple of walking breaks we finished after a neat time of 4:09 hours and I was happy to be able to stay at B's side. After 20 K I had to disappear for a pit stop and lost almost 2 minutes. I took me more than 2km to catch up. Then I felt better for the second half and had no problems to keep close to her heels.

We enjoyed the Muenster Marathon - a perfectly organised and staightforward event with a flat route through a beautiful city and nice landscape.

However my muscels now ask for some days to recover. I doubt this was the best way of preparing for New York.

Almost finished B is the one to keep smiling:

Michel Descombes is a familiar face along Europe's marathon routes:

Germany's fastest female boss

2010-09-10T23:00:00.002+02:00

Flying along the final lap at Berlin's Olympic Stadium:

Presenting the cup awarded Germany's fastest female boss:

I have to admit this blog is becoming a B-blog ... But there is reason to do so. B ran a fabulous race around the capital's Olympic stadium, finished 6.2 km after 27:48 min and made it 32th woman among 1,000 ladies started. Being the very first female boss she entered the stage mid of the stadium and was given this enourmous cup. A day to remember!

Still excited B affirmed to run a marathon on Sunday. A crazy idea to do without proper training. However - the more crazy the more good is life. - I won't wonder if she outruns me once more.

Onions done - Championships to come

2010-09-05T23:55:00.002+02:00

stats of the week: run 25km, cycled 130km, gym 3h

Too little running this week, having in mind that there are only 9 weeks left to New York. I'm not concerned but it was not the kind of schedule to let me feel satisfied. Expecially as it was just lack of time that kept me from training properly.

Our traditional Onion Relay Race is always good fun. The distance everybody has to cover is just 800 meters, but the veggie burden lets hurt one's muscles for a couple of days.

I am curious about my own next weekend's activities. It's going to be B's decision. She's weird ideas sometimes ...

Midweek B'll run the so called German Championships of Companies. She qualified for the final of Germany's fastest bosses. And I look forward to following her to the finish in the Olympic Stadium. An exciting week to come!

Slow Switch to Running

2010-08-29T22:41:00.008+02:00

stats of the week: run 36km, cycled 220km, gym 2hrs

Since long it has been a proper and sensibly mixed training week. I am still keen on doing more bike tours but gradually should build up more runs to get fit for autumn events.

On a very rainy Saturday I enjoyed my most beautiful tourist bike tour (RTF) ever. The route at Gevelsberg is situated at my doorstep but I finally managed to cycle it for the first time. It's green and hilly and follows lovely minor roads all the way. If I don't get a number for the Oetztaler next year I will do the Gevelsberg Bike Marathon next year which takes place at the same weekend.

Grand Prix Run

2010-08-22T23:00:00.006+02:00

stats of the week: run 37km, cycled 138km

I never intended to take part in the popular run along Germany's historic Formula 1 course at the Nuerburgring. That is because I am not a fan of any kind of "motorsports" - I only do accept moving by muscle power as proper sports.

Alas - this time I was asked by B to assist as her escort. No question I would go and enjoy the race course. Since May my longest run has been just 12km - this was a race of 24.4km on a tough route. Luckily I managed to keep close on her heels and we finished after 2:28 hrs. Grand Prix drivers made it within 6 min!

Run am Ring

More than Chemistry

2010-08-18T00:16:00.004+02:00

stats of the week: run 10km, cycled 203km, gym 3hrs

With the company of two very good friends I spent the weekend to care for Uwe's memorial plate on the Zugspitze. We were happy to find that his bronze shield was in perfect state. Just a bit of cleaning and polishing was to do to make it look like being new.

I don't believe in anything regarding religious beliefs. Technically I see any kind of life just as a chemical process. Sense and soul is just part of faith. Nevertheless there are lives which mean much more to me especially the one of those who departed this world far too early.

More Caucasian Views

2010-08-08T21:58:00.005+02:00

stats of the week: run 20km, gym 2hrs

Now back home since 3 days I'm still working on putting in my Russian impressions.

Big buildings: Living in Baksan valley

Main street at Azan: Cable car village for Elbrus

Café Svetlana: Even small Russian children keep thinker's position

Garabashi station: Snow and ice are environment's best friend

Diesel Hut: Highest welcome on Elbrus at 4,050m

Top of Europe

2010-08-06T23:28:00.007+02:00

stats of the week: no sports, just hill walking

My first visit to Russia led me to its highest point which is also the highest point of Europe.
I flew my home town's flag on the top of Elbrus at 5,642m - don't worry I took it with me on the way down.

Once you cross the mountain's snow border at the barrels huts at 3,700m the heavily littered moon like landscape changes to the vast glacial cover. The normal route is not technically difficult although long and strenuous - a whole day spent on crampons. Dangers of the weather should not to be underestimated. 15 to 30 fatalities are counted per year. As you see we were very lucky with the conditions and no problems occurred.

Let me start with the more beautiful views of Elbrus. A lot is to be told about my first impressions of Russia - ugly villages, abundant flora, meditarrenian towns, slopes of rubbish, multitude of monuments, people always ready to smile - more photos to come.

Another Tackle

2010-07-24T00:18:00.003+02:00

stats of the week: run 22km, cycled 65km

Bye for now, dear folks, I'm off for nearly a fortnight to tackle my personal mountain of the year.
On Monday, August 2nd, I hope to be swinging my home town's flag on the top of this one.
It'll need some luck to be successful ...

Day of Records

2010-07-20T15:25:00.006+02:00

stats of the week: run 17km, cycled 274 km
L'etape du Tour: 181km, 10:14 h, 1060th of 1502 in age group, 5082nd of 6888 overall

As expected this year's L'etape turned out to be my toughest day ever. And it was a day of personal records:

- my longest competition ever, lasting 10 hours and 14 minutes
- longest distance cycled ever with 214km completed, included the way home to our bus
- biggest ascent ever done, Col de Marie Blanque, Col de Soulor and Col de Tourmalet added up to 4,350 meters of climbing
- highest speed ever ridden on the bike 70.1km/h (43.8mph)

Col de Marie Blanque 1035m:

Col de Soulor 1474m:

Col de Tourmalet 2115m:

On the final ascent to the very steep Marie Blanque we had to push our bikes for nearly a mile due to a traffic jam caused by walking cyclists - I lost about 25 minutes. The route was beautiful and I enjoyed every part of it. Although my performance wasn't as good as last year and I didn't feel as fit as in recent races. Anyway it was still a day I'll be dreaming of frequently.
Now I look forward to watching the professionals doing the same stage on Thursday.

Worn out by heat

2010-07-11T23:26:00.003+02:00

stats of the week: run 17km, cycled 158km

Call me crazy, I know I am, but midweek I had to squeeze in a 5km track race. Our local town championships took place so I had to be there. After weeks of long distance cycling it was no use to take part in a 5km run. As expected my performance was limited. I finished after 22:02 min, under different circumstances a disappointing time. Nevertheless I was the only finisher of my age group what let me take home a champion title ...

To keep fit on the bike I completed a popular bike event in the nearby mountain area Sauerland. It's a challenging route of 158km and 1800 meters of ascent.

It was the unbearable heat what made the day more than tough. Reaching the finish after 6:20 hours of cycling I was so worn out that I wasn't able to eat anything and it took me until Sunday evening to recover reasonably. The result is that I don't feel really fit for Tourmalet - next Sunday will be the most challenging day of my 2010 sports year.

Day of Sweat

2010-07-06T22:32:00.009+02:00

stats of the week: cycled 210km

Maratona dles Dolomites: result see below

The Maratona dles Dolomites is Italy's most popular cycling event, with this year's 24th race finished by 8,800 thrilled cyclists. More than 20,000 applied to get a bib. The whole day is broadcoasted live on TV, 140km of road are closed for the bikers - and nobody bothers. 3 routes can be chosen during the race - 55km/106km/138km, the longest distance covering 4,100 meters of height difference.

See and feel the sweat:

It was the hottest day of the year to go up Pass Giau. It made me feel my head being close to burst and I had to concentrate to stay on my bike. Smiling is just a second's window dressing.

At my third year of Alpine cycling I am still passing my apprenticeship as the result unmistakably shows:

Name Ulrich Sauer
BIB 9600
Land/Town D-Witten
Category 138km Uomini/Men 50-57 anni
Start time 6:53.42,5
Finish Time 14:55.48,3
Race Time 8:02.05,8
Ave Speed 17,174 km/h
Rank Overall 3016. M of 4151 (73%)
Rank Category 479. M50-57 of 753 (64%)

Splits on route
Place Hour Time Rank Overall
Gardena 9:53.51,0 3:00.08,5 587. 3447.
Corvara 10:08.14,2 3:14.31,7 578. 3426.
Campolongo 10:34.28,5 3:40.46,0 537. 3285.
Selva Cadore 11:38.31,0 4:44.48,5 529. 3230.
Passo Giau 12:51.41,6 5:57.59,1 496. 3131.
Falzarego 14:09.41,8 7:15.59,3 476. 3009.

Hill Time Trial Corvara - Campolongo 6.4km, Height diff 353m
Time 26.14,3
Ave Speed 14,635 km/h
Rank Overall 2179.
Rank Category 279.

Hill Time Trial Passo Giau 10.6km, Height diff 900m
Time 1:13.10,6
Ave Speed 8,691 km/h
Rank Overall 2879.
Rank Category 429.

A Biker's Smile

2010-06-30T22:42:00.009+02:00

stats of the week: run 12km, cycled 276km

3LaenderGiro (Austria-Italy-Switzerland)
168km, 3,500hm, 8:49 hrs, 1,315th of 1,681 men, 519th of 721 men aged 50-57

Being 2 years older but with 2 more years of cycling experience I managed to cut 47 minutes off my recent time on this challenging route, passing Stelvio and Oven Pass. Two years ago I had to dismount my bike with just 1km to the finish, this time I made it to the end by a constant smile. Smiling was undoubtedly increased by overtaking the unconcerned novice race biker Holger K. just at the same point where I had to walk last time.

My Local Alps

2010-06-20T22:56:00.005+02:00

stats of the week: run 22km, cycled 278km, 2 gyms

Most people who have never been to the industrial region where I live, the "Ruhrgebiet", think it's a rather flat piece of land.

However, on my Wednesday bike ride I managed to collect 970 meters of height difference over a distance of only 53 kilometers!

The surprising awareness is that it would be possible to add up the same amount of gained height like biking in the Alps. Anyway, next Sunday's elevation map is still looking more demanding:
(official pic by dreilaendergiro)

Cross Training

2010-06-13T22:43:00.007+02:00

stats of the week: run 10km, cycled 335km

Did more climbing work this week, enjoying another local pass, the one to Veserde. It's a climb which let you imagine to be in the Alps ... However, after finshing today's long ride of 160km and more than 1,500 m of climbing I felt even too tired to read the Sunday newspaper!

Cross training is highly recommended for runners. Not just cycling. Very popular here in my home town Witten is Dragon boating on the river Ruhr. The boat shown on the left is full of runners ...

Climbing Work

2010-06-06T22:17:00.004+02:00

stats of the week: run 12km, cycled 330km, 1 gym

The week taught me that a lot work is to be done to reach the cycling performance I had last year. Though it was a good week and the mileage was higher than expected. And I was able to collect some ascents like the pass of Asker Steet which I enjoyed twice this week.

Local History

2010-05-30T23:01:00.003+02:00

stats of the week: run 11km, cycled 80km, 1 gym

Downtown Ruhr valley - the area where I live - is designated European Capital of Culture. One of many projects during the year is this one:

Hundreds of yellow balloons show where forgotten coal mines existed many years ago. The woods of my home town Witten are the cradle of Ruhr valley coal mining, with all pits closed since mid of last century. The evening view from my attic window shows green surroundings and a lighted yellow point reminding of our gone industrial history.

Scotland is hot

2010-05-26T21:28:00.010+02:00

stats of the week: Edinburgh Marathon, 3.57.35 hrs

Did I say the weather was going to be perfect? It was - for the spectators. And for the runners to relax on the meadow after the race. Newspapers reported the hottest May weekend in Scotland ever! 26°c was more than Athens had to offer on the same day, the headlines claimed.

Adding to this the route turned out to be not as flat and fast as promised. The first miles were narrow and twisting, later there were a number of strenuous short climbs. Though toughest parts were the long stretches without shadow.

Even more admirable that B reached her target to finish sub 4 hours.

Drafting in her lee I felt comfortable and strong until I experienced a weak moment after around 36km. I saw her running off and felt that I won't be able to follow. But with the help of some dextrose and the view of the 25-mile-sign I managed to close the gap. Together we delivered a really strong and breathless finish.

Capable of smiling again. Well done!

Split times:
10km 52.06
21.1km 1.52.21
30km 2.44.15
42.2km 3.57.35

Happy With the Rear Side

2010-05-20T21:42:00.006+02:00

I have been to Edinburgh a couple of times. I love the place and this time it will be my first view of the city in sunshine! The weather is perfect, the ash plume is gone, I am coming.

My only target on Sunday is to follow B's footsteps. That will be hard enough. I strained my hamstring on Monday and therefore didn't do any sports since then. I don't worry - the advantage is that I can feel rested now what is more important than to train until the final minute. However, I am prepared for the feeling being let alone during the second half by B picking up her pace. Her success is more desirable than mine - I'll be happy to see her rear side.

Last time it happened in Helsinki:

More Racy Veterans

2010-05-18T20:16:00.008+02:00

Following the recent note on Charles Eugster, competing oarsman and bodybuilder at the age of 90, today I have the pleasure to allude to the oldest man ever to have finished a half marathon.

Constant London Marathon runners will already know him. Fauja Singh ran London in 2000, when he was 89 and finished his first ever marathon after 6:54 hrs. 3 years later he set his PB in Toronto with 5:40 hrs. Meanwhile he has finished 5 London Marathons, 2005 being his last one.

Last Saturday he ran the ING Luxembourg Half Marathon in 3:32:30 as the only member of his very own age group "M99" (certificate). Fauja: "I won't stop running until I die."

photo by alphafoto.com: Fauja even got his own pacemakers.

By the way: Let me just point out he is vegetarian ...

Tired legs in good shape

2010-05-16T20:54:00.005+02:00

stats of the week: run 39km, cycled 211km, 1 gym

Adding up the weekly stats this evening I am very surprised that the week was the most ambitious of the year so far:

Anyway, this is the mathematical result of converting cycling to running by a rate of 35km of cycling equivalent to 10km of running. This ratio obviously can be discussed. Especially for long rides it needs to be adjusted.

However, my body agrees that is was a very tough week. After a long ride yesterday my legs woke up very tired this morning. I was amazed that - after an ardous start - I was able to complete a hilly 16km run in quite a good shape.

Today all flights to Manchester and Edinburgh were cancelled! Please, volcano E..., don't cause the same trouble as with the London Marathon!! The Met Office raises some hope as it forecasts wind will change at mid of the week... My flight is booked for Friday morning.

30 years to look forward

2010-05-09T21:37:00.009+02:00

stats of the week: run 21km, cycled 144km, 3 gyms

Came across an article in the Sunday paper and have found a new hero: Charles Eugster, an Englishman, dentist, lives in Switzerland. Nothing unsual so far, alas: He is 90 and he probably is the world's fittest man at this age.

(photo: Charles Eugster website)

His story lets me hope to have still some 30 years of sports to enjoy!
Charles Eugster

Waiting for Come Back

2010-05-02T23:26:00.007+02:00

stats of the week: run 19km, 2 gyms

A whole week after London my thigh muscels are still hurting. Did I tell you that there is another marathon I have entered? 3 weeks from today on I hope to be at the start line in Edinburgh. My muscles seem to be informed and let me know they disagree.

The even bigger dilemma is that I have booked three ambitious Alpine bike races to do in summer and it is high time to start the special training. The solution would be to do just bike training from now on, hoping another sub 4 hr marathon in between can be done without loads of running.

There is just one drawback: My legs are longing for more rest to recover from recent miles.

(Wiki photo)

Brave Race - Happy Face

2010-04-27T22:19:00.007+02:00

stats of the week: run 67km, 1 gym
London Marathon result: 3:40:55

It was sort of a venturous experiment to combine my first ultra race with the compulsory London Marathon following only 3 weeks later. However, as the graph shows below I made a brave attempt.

I set out at a pace for a 3:30 finish (5 min/km). Actually I knew that this could only be too brave not to say lightheaded. Close to the finish line I still hoped to come home sub 3:40 before a hamstring cramp forced me to take a rest at km 39 opposite the London Eye. At least I can proudly claim that I have tried.

Needless to say that I am very happy with my result. Getting older means getting slower but it still means finishing and being part of it!

Congratulations to all London Marathon finishers. I had a highly enjoyable time to see so many familiar faces again. See you next year!

Irina ready to race

2010-04-23T00:16:00.005+02:00

Irina has arrived! The defending double London champion made her way from Germany by train and says she's ready to win a third time. "It will be a tough race. London always has the highest quality of elite runners at the start line. It's like a world championship!"

She's confident but has high respect for the race and for her competitors. "Every race is different. After the first 5 or 10 km I'll have to decide about my tactics."

Besides her will start: Constantina Dita, Olympic Champion 2008, Bai Xue, World Champion 2009, along with runner-up and third, Deena Kastor, London Champion 2006, Mara Yamauchi, London runner-up 2009, and Liliya Shobukhova who beat Irina at Chicago last October.

Despite Irina has'nt raced once since Chicago she's sure to be in form to win a third time in a row - only second woman to do so after German fellow Katrin Dörre in early 90s.

Volcanic and personal clouds above London

2010-04-18T22:24:00.009+02:00

stats of the week: run 32km, cycled 30km, 2 gyms

There is still some pain and strain that forced me to walk back from today's recovery run. But I still hope to have recovered until next weekend for the London Marathon - provided I can get there. At least we can be happy that we havn't planned to run Boston tomorrow! If the flight ban will persist we should manage to get to UK via train or car and ferry.

By the way: German speaking readers are invited to have a look at my Two Oceans Report.
And there are three short race videos at YouTube.

Attempt of Vindication

2010-04-11T23:16:00.012+02:00

stats of the week: recovery time! just 50km mountain bike done

Sabine, you're obviously right! I was sort of carried away to run my first ultra marathon as part of preparations for the London Marathon. I have to admit I won't even have thought of doing this in recent years. Formerly I even refused to ascend my bike to avoid any chance of being injured. But with 10 Londons put in the box things change.

Last year I did the London Marathon followed by our local Karstadt Marathon 3 weeks later. I got the feeling that my performance was better in the latter one. That let me try the double again, this time with Two Oceans first and London following.

To my excuse I point out that I didn't test my very limits on the Two Oceans. As you see I was still able to smile on Chapman's peak. Alas - the stride has got the form of a shuffle already.

Luckily there is no photo of the scene which saw me forced to stop due to a stomach upset.
I managed to get over it with only 5km to go and found back to an inside happyness, now knowing I'd make it to the finish line.

It's done:

Finsihed within Cut-off time - Bronze Medal

2010-04-03T22:33:00.003+02:00

stats of the week: run 74km (including Two Oceans Marathon 56km)

Folks,

Just a short note to let you know that my first ultra marathon was a success. For the first time ever I continued to run beyond 42km and did a further 14. It was tough and I had to walk a number of steps but without any major problems - pitstop and stomach upset not mentioning - I enjoyed most of the race and the sensational route along Chapman's peak drive.

Finish time was 5:35 hours what probably set me in the middle of the field of about 7000 finishers. I feel fine with this result and I still hope that my joints will recover within 3 weeks to carry me around London on 25th April.

Free Man and Animals

2010-03-31T23:42:00.004+02:00

Stats of the week: run 42km, 2 gyms

Regards from Cape Town where I look forward to running my longest ever distance on Easter Saturday. The race is modestly called the Two Oceans Marathon and we met a couple who entered without knowing that the distance is longer than usual 42km of a marathon...

Imagine a prison where a former prisoner gets his own statue at the entrance of his jailhouse!
That is what happened to Nelson Mandela at Cape Town:

My main reason to do a bus tour around Cape of Good Hope was to meet the penguins at Simon's Town. Notice my disappointment when our guide let us only have 10 minutes to see them and take some photos:

Walking around the cliffs we came across the little dassies which are really tame and show a cool behaviour:

Long Island Run

2010-03-22T23:32:00.007+01:00

stats of the week: run 68km, indoors cycled 1:26 hrs, 1 gym

Most of the work is done now, what my knee is likely to be happy about. To avoid any boredom at the final long run I did it by taking part at the popular Syltlauf - a 33km run along Germany's longest North Sea island. It was supposed to be a training run but as it happens often when part of a runners' crowd it ended up to be slightly too fast. Accompanied by fellow K I was tempted to keep the pace and finished after 2:55 hrs, what made an average of 5:17 min/km (8:30 min/mile). I hope my body won't take it amiss.

Now it's time to taper off for my longest run ever.

Runaway to be shot

2010-03-14T21:23:00.005+01:00

stats of the week: run 42km, 1 hr indoor cycled, 3 gyms

I skipped one of the week's running workouts due to a small foot problem that luckily seems to be solved now. Today's medium long run of 22km (14 miles) was slow and rather relaxed. I take this as a promising sign for next Sunday's long run of 33km on the North Sea island of Sylt. It's a famous event taking the runners from the Southern tip of the narrow island to its very Northern end. I'll try to calm down and do it as a training run for the Two Oceans Marathon that'll take place a fortnight later.

Regularly I read two daily newspapers but I reckon more than 90% of their content has left my memory once I close the final page. This week there was one local notice that I still keep in mind. On the streets of my home town a cattle was shot dead by a policeman. The brave and panic creature had escaped just before it could be forced to enter the slaughterhouse. It's a very short notice but reminds us that thousands and millions of animals are violently killed every day.