Looking Back on '21: Pandemic to Peaks

Running in 2021

The key event for my running in 2021 was around the ninth mile of the Drake Half Marathon. I was on PR pace for that race when my left knee began to hurt. Adhering to the notion that I could recover later, I pushed through this pain for the remainder of this race. The final results were a personal best on the course along with a top 20 finish. But that decision also led to lingering injuries that had a detrimental impact on training and races for the next three months. More important was that I did not realize that the sore knee stemmed from my IT band and a lack of conditioning. Had I been more knowledgeable about running, I could have possibly avoided that injury and certainly the ones that followed.

That led to the realization that if I’m going to continue to race competitively, I needed to treat running with the same attention to detail and preparation as I do in my profession. I don’t go into hearings, negotiations or important meetingsunless I’m fully prepared and have researched what I need to know. That’s what I needed to do with running.

Exercises and stretches required proper form with adherence to detail. New warm-up and cool down stretches replaced ones used as a habit. It also meant keeping “easy” days just that – don’t worry about the Garmin, just have a comfortable run. Avoiding “tired legs” improved my workouts. I’m pleased with the results of this new approach. Both the IMT Half Marathon and Capital Pursuit were races where I exceeded my personal goals going into them.

Reflecting back over this past year, the following stands out:

· In-Person Racing Rules! A year ago, I embraced virtual racing. I was able to push myself into paces that I believe were consistent with I’d have run for an in-person race. Since most of my running is solitary, doing races on my own was not as daunting. That said, once I ran the St. Paddy’s 5K in March, I suddenly had zero interests in anymore virtual races. Although I still ran three more virtual events after that race, I confess that it became more and more difficult to find the same enthusiasm. Simply put, there’s nothing like a true race with other people.

· Other People Rule!Whether FB or Strava or at races, it’s been an absolute pleasure to connect with everyone. I’m continually amazed at what everyone has done, from incredible performances at key races to overcoming injuries to sharing inspiring experiences. I’m thrilled to be part of this world.

· Favorite Race. Tough call, but I’m going with this year’s Capital Pursuit. Despite cold November winds, I was able to run 5 seconds per mile faster this year than my previous best in 2019.

· Least Favorite Race. That would be this year’s Fueled by Fine Wine. This Oregon race used to be my favorite and a highlight of the summer. But with different management, a new and less appealing course (with more gravel roads and fewer trails through Oregon wineries), fewer wineries participating, this event was a far cry from what I’d experienced before. Since it was also moved from early to late July where it’s too close to the Bix 7, I’ve no idea when or if I’ll so this one again.

· Trail Running is Tough! This was the first time since 2017 that I’d ran the Sycamore 8 on trails. Talk about taking me out of my comfort zone. I had to start fast, pass with near abandon and watch my footing the entire time. It was fun and I’m happy with the outcome. But I also came away with even more respect for trail runners. I’ve no idea how you do it!

It goes without saying that I’m looking forward to this upcoming year. I know there will be some injuries and unanticipated setbacks. But I also know I will be in a better position to address those challenges. On that note, I want to thank several special individuals who have and continue to help me with running. Tim Ives for his outstanding coaching that truly “saves me from myself.” James S and Todd at Kinetic Edge who had guided me through my injuries with patience, skill and support. Sarah at Hands On Sports Medicine for the massage therapy that keeps my muscles moving. And most important, I want to thank, Amy, my wife who puts up with all of this. (And she’ll attest, it ain’t always easy. J)

My thanks to all of you!

Goals for 2022

Improve speed

Improve endurance for heat and humidity

Lessen injuries