I don't have any firm race plans, certainly none this summer. I don't like to race when it is hot. Running in the summer for me is just about putting in miles and building endurance. I ran 28 this week.
"Just how OLD are you?"
While running past a couple walking their dogs, passing them for the third time that morning, and having seen them many other times this year, he politely asked that question. How old are you?
That reminds me, has anyone else noticed the change at parks lately? They used to be filled with old people taking walks with dogs, old people sitting on benches, old people watching birds. Not any more. Nope. Now everyone is my age.
Anyway, when I answered with my age (~59), he seemed amazed at my answer. I hope that meant that they thought I was pretty darn fast for that age or at least that they were impressed with my stamina, or something.
Alas, though they may have just thought someone my age should really know better. It is crazy to run in this heat and humidity, especially for us old folks.
I am going to go with the former. They were impressed that I could do things that they couldn't, especially in this heat.
Built for Rugby
Distance running, especially for me, is all about heat transfer. When you run a long time your core body temperature rises and if you cannot get that heat out then you slow down.
It is no surprise that all the best distance runners have that classic, lithe, toothpick thin physique. They have no insulation. Their inner core body is fully exposed to the air. Heat is no problem.
Me on the other hand, I am not really built like that. I struggle in the heat. Even when I am "thin", I carry a lot of muscle and bone. I have thighs the size of tree trunks. I am built more like a rugby player.
At the starting line I always am on the lookout for the competitive guys in my age group anyway. Once I find them, maybe I should run over and tackle them, rugby style.
Then, I could take off running, just as fast as I can. I should be well motivated. I sure don't want those guys to catch up with me after tackling them at the start.
Then, when I get the to the finish, I want to make sure everyone knows I finished, right? I want them see my bib number clearly.
Dive!
You can do that!
You may be like that couple I saw this week. You don't think you can do the things I do. I disagree. I think you can.
I spent time outside this week enjoying nature. I saw the sun rise, made some deer nervous as I got too close. I listened to the creek bubbling gently over the rocks. You can do that.
I saw friendly people out walking their dogs and exchanged pleasantries with them. The people, not the dogs. I smiled and waved at kids. I gave a big thumbs up to encourage other people in their struggles. You can do that.
I was all hot and sweaty, panting and totally out of breath in the car. I was trying to put my clothes back on without drawing too much attention, flush in the face already and trying not to honk the horn with an elbow or a knee. Then smiling contently as I drove away knowing no one knew what happened.
See, you can do that!
