Gene Chavez's Posts - Pikes Peak Sports2024-03-28T11:55:31ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavezhttp://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2797455473?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1http://pikespeaksports.us/profiles/blog/feed?user=0r7gtl7iz2trx&xn_auth=noPikes Peak Ascent – Race Daytag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-08-19:5021591:BlogPost:5877652014-08-19T01:58:22.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>Race and the alarm was set for 4:15. I went to bed around 9:30 and woke up around 1:00, again at 3:00 and then the alarm rang at 4:15 as scheduled. I felt good, I felt refreshed and surprisingly I wasn’t nervous.</p>
<p>Breakfast was my normal oatmeal. I doubled checked my sweat check bag and all my other supplies and headed out the door at 6:00. Start line was already crowded and after some scouting by our awesome driver we had a prime spot and its 6:15, plenty of time before the…</p>
<p>Race and the alarm was set for 4:15. I went to bed around 9:30 and woke up around 1:00, again at 3:00 and then the alarm rang at 4:15 as scheduled. I felt good, I felt refreshed and surprisingly I wasn’t nervous.</p>
<p>Breakfast was my normal oatmeal. I doubled checked my sweat check bag and all my other supplies and headed out the door at 6:00. Start line was already crowded and after some scouting by our awesome driver we had a prime spot and its 6:15, plenty of time before the race.</p>
<p>Now the nerves were starting to kick in but seeing all my friends and taking a few pictures and all of the sudden it is time to start. The run through Manitou and up Ruxton was nice. Many people along the way cheering and shouting “go” to all their friends. It made that part of the race super fun.</p>
<p>I start heading up Barr and get some decent running in. There were spots I wasn’t running but I never felt like I was losing time. I hit No Name Creek 6 minutes over my scheduled time but I felt confident. Next up Bob’s Road and I was moving pretty good. Next stop is Barr Camp. I am over the time I wanted but I was feeling exceptionally good. In fact, I was thinking I would love to do a Barr Camp 10k race and take a Gondola back down. Someone needs to finance that awesome idea!</p>
<p>Next up is Bottomless Pit. Still feeling good I was thinking I could get a 3:45 time on this race. Then came the hill after Bottomless Pit. I could feel the time slipping away especially with every racer that passed me. All I could think was “where is A-Frame? I need to get to A-Frame.”</p>
<p>With all the energy I saved getting to A-Frame I should be able to make up some time above tree line! I passed tree line and the energy I thought I would have was not there. I gave it all I could. I pushed it as much as my body would let me. My mind was saying “go” but my body wasn’t listening. </p>
<p>The last three miles went like this, 26:57, 23:19 and 28:12. About 10 minutes longer than I had hoped. The last mile was awful and I still don’t see why they call it 16 Golden Stairs because it feels like a lot more than 16, they are way hard and they are not gold in color.</p>
<p>Total time was 4:05:20. Longer than my two goals I set. I wanted a 3:46:59 to take a minute off a mile from last year and at the least I wanted 3:59:59 so I could be sub 4:00. I didn’t get my goals but I did finish. In this race that in itself is a huge accomplishment. As I was doing the final 3 miles I was thinking “I am never doing this again.” It’s a good thing I have a short memory and forgot I had that thought because I am already thinking about how to change my training and how I can improve.</p>
<p>Hanging around the top was awesome seeing all the incredible runners as they crossed the line and ducked their heads to have their medal placed around their neck. It was also great seeing all the awesome people that had already finished. The ride down was one to remember as there was lots of joking, laughing and teasing. I think I was teased the most and all the teasing came from me. The bottom was epic! I know the best people in the world and they make running so much fun. BRT, you all rock! Thank you for an awesome day.</p>
<p>I know I could have never done this without the other runners in COS. My fellow runners keep on running because you inspire me. GO BRT!!! </p>Inspirationstag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-08-15:5021591:BlogPost:5851152014-08-15T02:22:06.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>With the Pikes Peak Ascent here it has made me reflect on the people that got me where I am. I have so many people that have inspired me but I want to take this opportunity to give some love to those that have had the biggest impact on my life.</p>
<p>My mom does not run but has had a tremendous impact on my running. She taught me that nothing is easy and if you want it you need to work for it. Thank you for instilling this drive in me when I run mom. I love you.</p>
<p>My dad does run…</p>
<p>With the Pikes Peak Ascent here it has made me reflect on the people that got me where I am. I have so many people that have inspired me but I want to take this opportunity to give some love to those that have had the biggest impact on my life.</p>
<p>My mom does not run but has had a tremendous impact on my running. She taught me that nothing is easy and if you want it you need to work for it. Thank you for instilling this drive in me when I run mom. I love you.</p>
<p>My dad does run and you all know him. I call him Homeslice. When I was young he ran and I didn’t even know he ran. Looking back I remember it and it was indeed the first piece of the puzzle to my running journey. These days he is out there every Tuesday inspiring me. Thank you for a lifetime of inspiration Homeslice.</p>
<p>My Uncle William is a huge inspiration to me. He has run the Pikes Peak Marathon 25 times! I hope I can run the Ascent 5 times. When I was young I would ask my Aunt Gwen “where is Uncle William?” She would tell me is running and will return in about 4 hours. I thought “who runs for 4 or more hours.” Now I understand all the training and how much work he put into his training. Uncle William, thank you for teaching me about perseverance when running up Pikes Peak and thank you for letting me run with you and for all the support you give me.</p>
<p>My Uncle Patrick, aka Running Hawk. He is not a runner nor does he know any runners. My Uncle Running Hawk has had both legs amputated. Every day I am able to stand up, walk, and especially run he is on my mind. He is a fighter and inspires me daily. Thank you for inspiring my by teaching me toughness and keeping you strong will to live Uncle Running Hawk. </p>
<p>My sister Nadine, you all might know her as Champ. She has been running for years and I didn’t understand why but now I understand. She has taught me how to enjoy running and recently she has taught me how to manage it. Champ, thank you for always being there for me when I run and when I don’t.</p>
<p>Of course I need to tell you about BRT. This awesome group of runners are the absolute best. They are the best runners, have the best hearts, and are there for me every step I take. They have been with me through thick and thin to encourage, support and inspire me. The best part is BRT will be running up Pikes Peak with me. Even though they will be ahead of me they will still be with me. The members of BRT that are not running up the mountain will be at the bottom taking care of business so when I get down I can celebrate. BRT, thank you for always being there and inspiring me.</p>
<p>Finally, I need to thank every runner in this community whether I know you or not. Every time I am running and I see you on the trail you totally inspire me. When I see you run I want to be as awesome as you. Colorado Springs has the best running community in the USA and some of the best runners in the USA. Keep running COS because you inspire me!</p>Final Training Runstag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-08-07:5021591:BlogPost:5831602014-08-07T03:22:11.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>The last couple of weeks I really wanted to pick up my training. I wanted to increase my mileage and continue getting some altitude training in. Mission accomplished!</p>
<p>Three of my training runs went something like this: I took the cog to Mountain View and ran to the summit. It was a first for me as I have never rode the cog and ran from there. As I started running I was thinking this is a small trail. Then suddenly there was no trail. I stopped looked around and luckily there…</p>
<p>The last couple of weeks I really wanted to pick up my training. I wanted to increase my mileage and continue getting some altitude training in. Mission accomplished!</p>
<p>Three of my training runs went something like this: I took the cog to Mountain View and ran to the summit. It was a first for me as I have never rode the cog and ran from there. As I started running I was thinking this is a small trail. Then suddenly there was no trail. I stopped looked around and luckily there were others that knew what they were doing so I followed them. They had to be thinking I was not very smart trying to run on a rabbit trail. The run went well but I didn’t do as well as I wanted above A-Frame.</p>
<p>The next weekend I drove to Elk Park and ran down to Barr Camp and then back to Elk Park. I saw the Baca family and ran down with them. It was fun and I really enjoyed running with them. Thank you Baca’s. On the run back to the top I was feeling pretty good until I hit the hill before and after Oil Creek Tunnel. Those hills felt extremely long and brutal. As I was struggling and walking very slowly many of my friends went flying by me. They are great runners so when they pass you it is not at all disappointing. They encouraged me as they always do. I appreciate the help Neil, Peter and Simon.</p>
<p>Last weekend I drove to the top of the peak and ran 4 miles down and then back to the top. Going down didn’t take long and felt much better than I thought it would. Going up felt good until I hit the last mile. I would bet money it is more than a mile. I saw so many great people training that day. They were all very encouraging. Loved seeing you Peggy, Julius, Gladys, Kari, Mary, Jody and Bill. If I forgot to mention anyone I will blame the lack of oxygen and age.</p>
<p>Training for the Triple Crown of Running Series and being a part of the Pikespeaksports.us Triple Crown Running team has been a pleasure and honor. I have enjoyed sharing my journey with you and I appreciate you reading my blogs. I will do one more good training run and then taper and rest for race day.</p>
<p>Keep running my fellow runners because you inspire me. GO BRT!!!</p>Sacrificestag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-07-28:5021591:BlogPost:5810132014-07-28T03:19:51.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>We all know when training is involved there are so many sacrifices that are made. The event really dictates the sacrifices involved. 5k’s are different from 10k’s, from half marathons and even more different than the Pikes Peak Ascent. This particular event is the sacrifices while training for the Pikes Peak Ascent.</p>
<p>The training for the PPA really began back in March when some runs went to North Cheyenne Canyon and the Chutes. From there it was Section 16, Garden of the Gods, Barr…</p>
<p>We all know when training is involved there are so many sacrifices that are made. The event really dictates the sacrifices involved. 5k’s are different from 10k’s, from half marathons and even more different than the Pikes Peak Ascent. This particular event is the sacrifices while training for the Pikes Peak Ascent.</p>
<p>The training for the PPA really began back in March when some runs went to North Cheyenne Canyon and the Chutes. From there it was Section 16, Garden of the Gods, Barr Trail and runs on top of Pikes Peak.</p>
<p>However, this is not about the sacrifices for me, the runner. These sacrifices are the ones made by my friends and family. Most of my major training occurred on Saturdays. This meant on Friday nights I was not able to do many of the things that they wanted to do. I needed to be home early or not go at all. I wanted to get some rest so I would feel decent on Saturday. </p>
<p>Then on Saturday it was an early and long day. Up before the sun, getting ready, making sure I didn’t forget anything and out of the house normally around 6:45 a.m. Depending on the agenda it was going to take 4, 5, 6 hours. Then when I arrived back home it was time to relax and not do much of anything else for a couple of more hours.</p>
<p>Sunday was a recovery and catch up day. My body need to recover from Saturday and I needed to catch up on all the things I didn’t do Friday and Saturday. This mean most my Sunday activities were at the house with little other things happening.</p>
<p>I want to thank all the wonderful people in my life that have sacrificed for me to do my training for the PPA. Not just the weekend trainings but the everyday of trainings you sacrificed for me. I especially want to acknowledge and thank my kids Anthony, Alexandra, Thomas and Genevieve for allowing me do my trainings and never complaining about the sacrifices you had to make. Your sacrifices and support have helped me and will get me to the top. Thank you to all my friends and families for your sacrifices.</p>
<p>Remember, keep running my fellows runner because you inspire me. GO BRT!!!! </p>Bottom to Top???tag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-07-15:5021591:BlogPost:5778852014-07-15T02:56:24.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>The Saturday before the Summer Roundup I went to the top of Pikes Peak and sat up there for a couple of hours. Normally I would have ran down some and then back up for some Pikes Peak Ascent training. However, with the Summer Roundup the next day I just wanted to be on top for some altitude time.</p>
<p>As I sat on top and watched runners going up and down I was sad for a second that I wasn’t running. Yes, it was only for a second and then I was actually happy I wasn’t running, haha. As…</p>
<p>The Saturday before the Summer Roundup I went to the top of Pikes Peak and sat up there for a couple of hours. Normally I would have ran down some and then back up for some Pikes Peak Ascent training. However, with the Summer Roundup the next day I just wanted to be on top for some altitude time.</p>
<p>As I sat on top and watched runners going up and down I was sad for a second that I wasn’t running. Yes, it was only for a second and then I was actually happy I wasn’t running, haha. As I watched I did feel like a slacker. I decided at that point next week I am going bottom to top!</p>
<p>Friday evening I went straight home from work and rested to I would feel good on Saturday morning. 5:00 a.m. the alarm rings and it’s time to get up because I wanted to get started by 6:00. My first thought was why did I want to go so early. I felt confident and was ready to go heading out the door at 5:45. I pulled into Memorial park grabbed my stuff and was ready to roll.</p>
<p>As soon as I turned onto Manitou Ave and looked up at the peak I thought to myself “that’s a long way to go!” I turn onto Ruxton, look at the hill and think “only 13 more miles.” Not a good feeling so early in my run. I know it’s going to be difficult and I figure once I get to No Name Creek I can make up some time. I pass No Name Creek, Bob’s Road and get to Barr Camp. Heck, I feel pretty good I can do this.</p>
<p>Next up Bottomless Pit and I knew I was slowing down but I still was feeling good. The last time I had been this far was the Ascent last year. I forgot how far it is to A-Frame and how many little switchbacks there are before A-Frame. I started to feel a little discouraged but I was anxious to hit tree line. Finally, tree line and 3 miles to go.</p>
<p>The last 3 miles were absolutely horrible. I had many thoughts and many words flying out of my mouth. “What made me think I was ready to go bottom to top! This is my last year! Why do I torture myself like this!” Then I hit the summit. A nice rest and some snacks and liquids and I was feeling much better. Heck, it wasn’t really that bad. I can do this many more years.</p>
<p>I am thrilled to be a part of the PikesPeakSports.us Triple Crown Runners team. This team is a great group and they have helped me. All the runners out there have helped so, keep on running my fellow runner because you inspire me. GO BRT!!!!!</p>Summer Round Uptag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-07-08:5021591:BlogPost:5749632014-07-08T03:00:00.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>Bubba has officially renamed this race to Summer Pound Up. I had an idea of the course because I tried to run some of it a few days earlier. I knew it was going to take my very best to conquer this course. I did all the things I normally do to insure I would give it my best but this course pounded me.</p>
<p>As I waited for the start I felt good. The temperature was just right for me. I thought I was going to get the best of this course. The first mile was congested but I knew it would…</p>
<p>Bubba has officially renamed this race to Summer Pound Up. I had an idea of the course because I tried to run some of it a few days earlier. I knew it was going to take my very best to conquer this course. I did all the things I normally do to insure I would give it my best but this course pounded me.</p>
<p>As I waited for the start I felt good. The temperature was just right for me. I thought I was going to get the best of this course. The first mile was congested but I knew it would be. I hit the mile 1 mark and I was at 8:07. This is going better than I anticipated. Just over the time I wanted to be at. I thought to myself the rest is going to get better. The next thing I knew I had a couple of bad miles. Miles 3 and 5 were horrible. I can’t even tell you the times because they took so long my battery died. Luckily I had a couple of good miles to help the bottom line.</p>
<p>The single track, the hills, the ruts and the rocks made for an extremely difficult race for me. I never was able to get in a good rhythm and struggled. I couldn’t even go fast on the down hills. My calves tightened up at one point and definitely added to the struggle. </p>
<p>The Triple Crown of Running Series is a tough one but I am extremely proud to run it and even more proud to run as a member of the PikesPeakSports.us Triple Crown of Running Team. The team performed great and picked up some hardware for their efforts. Great job and congratulations Brianne Pierson, Jill Gaebler and Sean O’Day for placing in your age groups. Bill Beagle, Marry Baldwin and Shelly Hitz congratulations to you also that was a tough race. One more huge shout out goes to my Uncle William Cordova for placing in his age group.</p>
<p>I know I have much work to do before the 3<sup>rd</sup> leg of the series…….the Pikes Peak Ascent. I need to pick up my training and get better because it is only 40 days away.</p>
<p>Keep running my fellows runners because you inspire me. Go BRT!!!</p>KISS my Cragstag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-06-28:5021591:BlogPost:5701972014-06-28T00:45:19.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>Only part of this is about training for the Triple Crown of Running Series but it does include Brianne Pierson, a fellow member of the PikespeakSports.us Triple Crown Runners team.</p>
<p>My awesome kids gave me KISS concert tickets for an early birthday gift. Since the concert was on a Wednesday night I took Thursday off work. I am heading up to Denver and I hear a couple of friends are going for a run Thursday. So I ask what time and the answer is 9:00. I think to myself, heck I can be…</p>
<p>Only part of this is about training for the Triple Crown of Running Series but it does include Brianne Pierson, a fellow member of the PikespeakSports.us Triple Crown Runners team.</p>
<p>My awesome kids gave me KISS concert tickets for an early birthday gift. Since the concert was on a Wednesday night I took Thursday off work. I am heading up to Denver and I hear a couple of friends are going for a run Thursday. So I ask what time and the answer is 9:00. I think to myself, heck I can be ready to run by 9:00 so I invite myself to join them. Then they say lets make it 8:00. Hmmm, can I make it at 8:00? Yes I can so I tell them I am in.</p>
<p>The concert was rocking. Those guys never get old, just like me, haha. They played loud, proud, flew through the air and set the stage on fire. It was an awesome concert and I loved every minute of it. I was disappointed that it ended so soon but it was already about 11:15. By the time I got home and settled for bed it’s about 1:00 am. No problem, six hours of sleep and I can run anything.</p>
<p>I get to the meeting spot at 8:00 and they say change of plans. We are running the Crags. Have you ever ran the Crags? Ummmm, nope but lets go. The Crags were more than I bargained for. It was steep and technical and most places were not running terrain. Did lots of hiking and I was thinking to myself why did I agree to this. Then a worse thought enters my mind. I need to go back down this mountain. We hit Devils Playground and start debating how far to go. One person has an appointment and one has to get ready for a trip. I tell them I am up for whatever. We start heading towards Pikes Peak Summit and decide at mile 5 we will turn around.</p>
<p>We turn around and the memory of that steep downhill enters my tiny noggin again. I tell them I am considering heading to the summit and hitching a ride down because that sounds more fun than going down the mountain. But I am not leaving my friends no matter how much it hurts. The 5 miles down were brutal but I thoroughly enjoyed hanging with them. It was worth the pain and a short nights rest.</p>
<p>Thank you Karin and Brianne for letting me invite myself and thank you Anthony, Georgia, Alexandra, Thomas and Genevieve for the KISS tickets.</p>
<p>Keep running my fellow runners because you motivate me and GO BRT!!!! </p>Traincationtag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-06-23:5021591:BlogPost:5692722014-06-23T03:49:29.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>What is a traincation? In Bubba’s dictionary it is a mini vacation from training. I haven’t blogged since the Garden of the Gods 10 mile but then again I haven’t done much.</p>
<p>I did do a little running. I did the Sailin’ Shoes 5k and set a new PR. I am extremely happy with my time and will probably have that PR for some time. The next day I did the Spring Spree 5k but the time was not nearly as impressive. I did realize two 5k races in back to back days are not good for me. I was…</p>
<p>What is a traincation? In Bubba’s dictionary it is a mini vacation from training. I haven’t blogged since the Garden of the Gods 10 mile but then again I haven’t done much.</p>
<p>I did do a little running. I did the Sailin’ Shoes 5k and set a new PR. I am extremely happy with my time and will probably have that PR for some time. The next day I did the Spring Spree 5k but the time was not nearly as impressive. I did realize two 5k races in back to back days are not good for me. I was actually sore after those races.</p>
<p>I also tried to get some hills and miles in but I struggled with it. I ran a few slow 5k training runs and I mean real slow. I will admit it felt good to go out and run with absolutely no pressure for time and just relax as I went. I can’t have many more of those days even though they were fun.</p>
<p> I did get the courage to tackle Barr Trail a couple of times. With parking tough these days I find it easier to leave my car at Memorial Park and start my run. I managed to get to No Name Creek both times. The second time I shaved a few minutes. Each time was difficult just as I knew it would be. I think I will have a few more dates with that trail in the next several weeks.</p>
<p>What’s next? Well, Summer Round Up is soon. I have work to do on the trail and with my blogs. As I continue to train this summer for the Triple Crown Series I will update you with my journey. I want to send big love to the local runners that ran in the San Juan Summer Solstice and the Mt. Washington Road Race. Keep running my fellow runners because you inspire me. GO BRT!!!!</p>Garden of the Gods 10 Mile Racetag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-06-09:5021591:BlogPost:5650122014-06-09T19:48:21.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>Thank you Garden of the Gods for letting me finish injury free. People say the views in this race are awesome. I was looking to catch my breath and didn’t see any views. Here is a recap of race day.</p>
<p>I am sleeping so well on a Sunday morning when out of the darkness my alarm rings. It is time to get up for the race. I wipe the sleep from my eye and stumble to the bathroom. A shower, a shave, some coffee and some stretching and I am ready to go.</p>
<p>I drive into Manitou looking…</p>
<p>Thank you Garden of the Gods for letting me finish injury free. People say the views in this race are awesome. I was looking to catch my breath and didn’t see any views. Here is a recap of race day.</p>
<p>I am sleeping so well on a Sunday morning when out of the darkness my alarm rings. It is time to get up for the race. I wipe the sleep from my eye and stumble to the bathroom. A shower, a shave, some coffee and some stretching and I am ready to go.</p>
<p>I drive into Manitou looking for parking and end up parking at Manitou Middle school. I am glad class is not in session because all those kids are taller than me. I take the short journey to the start line thinking to myself, brrrrr. I should have worn more clothes. I get to the Pikespeaksports.us tent and see my team mates. They make me feel better. They are a great group! Thank you Shelley, Mary, Jill, Bill, Brianne and Sean.</p>
<p> My goal is 1:20. I did a 1:25 last year so my goal is a lofty one. This means I need to average 8:00 miles. I have a plan, stay strong going up the hills and don’t let off on the downhill. Also, don’t start to fast. Anything under 7:00 on my first mile will only hurt me.</p>
<p>I creep up to the front of the pack for the start and the announcer is talking. I can’t hear him because all the thoughts going through my mind. I hear the gun sound or go or something because everyone starts moving. Here I go. 8:00 minute miles, 8:00 minute miles, 8:00 minute miles.</p>
<p> As I run I only think about the run. My strategy, my time and how I feel. In the first mile I am thinking did I hydrate enough, did I rest enough, I forgot my shot bloks and how is this humidity going to affect me? I see a hill and I manage to hit the top then I look up and see another hill, then another hill. These are not views I want to see. Screw the views, I don’t want to see any more hills.</p>
<p>Somewhere around mile 5.5 I catch a guy or he catches me. I don’t know his name or bib number. We start talking how this race is about 7 miles more than we like. The 5k races are the best! We manage to help each other as we encourage each other and go back and forth. In the end he got my by a few seconds. Thank you dude and great job! The crowd, the volunteers and most of all the runners helped me. I have so many friends in the running community and I love them all.</p>
<p>My uncle William was near the end and he propelled me. Go, go, go he yells. He has inspired me for years and I do my best to finish strong. Big Bubbs helped me too and I had enough to high 5 him! I cross the finish and it reads 1:17:41. I did it! I beat my goal. My gold and purple sling is soaked. Not because I ran fast but because of the humidity.</p>
<p>As I walk in a daze at the end there is so much running through my head. The only thing I really remember is……I think to myself, I only wanted to quit once in the race. The whole race!</p>
<p>Thank you Pikespeaksports.us and the Triple Crown of running. Tim Bergsten and Ron Ilgen you are the best. I am so proud to be a part of this team. </p>
<p>Remember keep running my fellow runners because you inspire me. Go BRT!!!!</p>A poem for the Garden 10 miletag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-06-06:5021591:BlogPost:5636042014-06-06T03:12:58.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>The Garden 10 mile race has snuck up on me. I have trained but as every race, I always wish I was in better condition. One of the ways I figured I could show my respect to the Garden is to write a poem. I don’t think I have written a poem since college so here it goes. As always, keep running my fellow runners because you inspire me. GO BRT!!!!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Garden o' Garden 10 mile race</p>
<p>Take it easy on me</p>
<p>So I can keep my pace.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Let’s play nice to each…</p>
<p>The Garden 10 mile race has snuck up on me. I have trained but as every race, I always wish I was in better condition. One of the ways I figured I could show my respect to the Garden is to write a poem. I don’t think I have written a poem since college so here it goes. As always, keep running my fellow runners because you inspire me. GO BRT!!!!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Garden o' Garden 10 mile race</p>
<p>Take it easy on me</p>
<p>So I can keep my pace.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Let’s play nice to each other</p>
<p>And be nice to me</p>
<p>I want us both to get out of this race injury free.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I have done my training</p>
<p>For all of your pain</p>
<p>Therefore I have lots to gain.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When it’s all said and done</p>
<p>This race will be fun</p>
<p>Your hills never end</p>
<p>And all my energy, I will spend.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I will worry about you until I hear the gun sound</p>
<p>Then all through the course my feet will pound</p>
<p>The finish line will be so sweet</p>
<p>So when I am done it will be such a treat.</p>Fun During the Journeytag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-05-29:5021591:BlogPost:5613992014-05-29T02:59:01.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>Since late April every run I have completed was geared towards the Garden of the Gods 10 mile race. I have done some speed work, tempo runs or hills to get ready for this race. I am very excited to be a part of the Pikespeaksports.us Triple Runners team and have enjoyed the labor I have put into the training.</p>
<p>However, on Monday I did a run/race just for fun. The Bolder Boulder is a wonderful race and the only race I do strictly for fun. This race really brings out the special fun…</p>
<p>Since late April every run I have completed was geared towards the Garden of the Gods 10 mile race. I have done some speed work, tempo runs or hills to get ready for this race. I am very excited to be a part of the Pikespeaksports.us Triple Runners team and have enjoyed the labor I have put into the training.</p>
<p>However, on Monday I did a run/race just for fun. The Bolder Boulder is a wonderful race and the only race I do strictly for fun. This race really brings out the special fun of running and makes for a great holiday. The day went something like this; wake up at 4:30 am, leave hotel by 5:45 am, hit the start line around 7:00 am, start the race around 7:30 am, get to Folsom Field around 8:20 am and then meet up with many friends and family to enjoy the elite runners and post race festivities.</p>
<p>Along the race route there are bands, snacks, fans cheering you on, beverages and a slip-n-slide. The best part of all that is the fact I get to run side by side with my sister Champ. She makes the race a ton of fun. Thank you Champ! Check out a couple of pictures from the race. Maybe next year I will run Bolder Boulder for time……..Naw!</p>
<p>Remember keep running my fellow runners because you inspire me. Go BRT!!!!</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2806508908?profile=original" target="_self"></a><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2806510057?profile=original" target="_self"><img style="width: 288px; height: 353px;" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2806510057?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="312" height="379"/></a><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2806510455?profile=original" target="_self"><img style="width: 293px; height: 313px;" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2806510455?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="293" height="289"/></a><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2806511138?profile=original" target="_self"></a></p>Training Dazetag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-05-20:5021591:BlogPost:5594612014-05-20T02:20:38.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>Training daze are here. Not sure if anyone has ever used that term before but “Bubba” has now coined it. </p>
<p>The frequency of training daze has increased. Not sure it is reflecting in the miles yet but I did get some extra days of running in. The mileage still must increase because the Garden of the Gods 10 mile race is coming soon. It is going to be a tough race but it is worth it because I am super excited about being on the PikesPeakSports.us Triple Crown Runners Team! I love the…</p>
<p>Training daze are here. Not sure if anyone has ever used that term before but “Bubba” has now coined it. </p>
<p>The frequency of training daze has increased. Not sure it is reflecting in the miles yet but I did get some extra days of running in. The mileage still must increase because the Garden of the Gods 10 mile race is coming soon. It is going to be a tough race but it is worth it because I am super excited about being on the PikesPeakSports.us Triple Crown Runners Team! I love the members I have met and am really looking forward to meeting the rest of team.</p>
<p>My training daze looked like this; speed work, or intervals, or pick-ups or something x something. Not really sure it is called, heck, not really sure what I did, haha. I do know it was tough and I was giving it a push. I did some hill work in section 16, a couple of tempo runs, a grueling 5k race and a real nice run through Garden of the Gods.</p>
<p>I am not sure if my mind is in a daze or my noodle legs are in more of a daze. I do know this week is a world of difference from last week and I feel so much better. The journey to the summit is in full force and the Garden of the Gods 10 mile race is phase 1. So remember keep running my fellow runners because you inspire me. Go BRT!!!! </p>Setbackstag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-05-11:5021591:BlogPost:5584042014-05-11T23:36:53.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>Setbacks</p>
<p>I know while training for the Triple Crown Series and the Garden of the Gods 10 Mile race there will be setbacks. I do not know how many there will be or when they will happen but I encountered my first one.</p>
<p>This past week went nothing as scheduled. The week started promising with a nice run on Monday. It felt good and I set my schedule. Run Tuesday, run Thursday and then figure out if I was going to run a double on Saturday. It was looking good, an increase in…</p>
<p>Setbacks</p>
<p>I know while training for the Triple Crown Series and the Garden of the Gods 10 Mile race there will be setbacks. I do not know how many there will be or when they will happen but I encountered my first one.</p>
<p>This past week went nothing as scheduled. The week started promising with a nice run on Monday. It felt good and I set my schedule. Run Tuesday, run Thursday and then figure out if I was going to run a double on Saturday. It was looking good, an increase in runs and miles.</p>
<p>Monday after my run I remembered hearing that Peyton Manning was doing an interview on a late show. Since my blood is orange I was going to stay up and watch it. Turned out to be a later than usual night for me and boy was I tired Tuesday. I thought to myself that was a heavy price to pay for staying up late but it’s all good because I am a Bronco fan. I will get my run in Tuesday night and feel good Wednesday.</p>
<p>Wednesday came and I still felt dog tired. Then that evening the body aches and chills arrived. My daughter was teasing me that if I fell asleep at the dinner table she was posting it on FB. Thursday was worse and I had to leave work early and Friday was the worst. I couldn’t answer the bell and missed work. There went my training for the week. It was gone just like my energy.</p>
<p>Mission accomplished for team setback. Yes, I went back a few steps but when I had an opportunity to check postings and blogs I was able to see my fellow runners continue their training which was helpful and encouraging. I will be back! So remember keep running my fellow runners because you inspire me. Go BRT!!!!</p>Pre-Trainingtag:pikespeaksports.us,2014-05-03:5021591:BlogPost:5555432014-05-03T03:21:53.000ZGene Chavezhttp://pikespeaksports.us/profile/GeneChavez
<p>Here is my first blog ever. First I want to say I am honored to be a part of the <a href="http://www.pikespeaksports.us/xn/detail/5021591:Page:555530?xg_source=activity">2014 PikesPeakSports.us Triple Crown Runners</a>. </p>
<p>Pre-training……yes, exactly, I mean training to train. :)</p>
<p>I was picking up a race packet the other day and a guy asked me “How’s your training going?” Being the witty guy I am I said “I am still in pre-training”. He chuckled at me and I could see in his face…</p>
<p>Here is my first blog ever. First I want to say I am honored to be a part of the <a href="http://www.pikespeaksports.us/xn/detail/5021591:Page:555530?xg_source=activity">2014 PikesPeakSports.us Triple Crown Runners</a>. </p>
<p>Pre-training……yes, exactly, I mean training to train. :)</p>
<p>I was picking up a race packet the other day and a guy asked me “How’s your training going?” Being the witty guy I am I said “I am still in pre-training”. He chuckled at me and I could see in his face he was worried about me.</p>
<p>You know when you are thinking to yourself I need to get outside and run but it’s cold, dark, you had a long day, need to feed the kids and you don’t go run near enough? That is the pre-training time.</p>
<p>The pre-training is actually fun. Those are runs to loosen the muscles and wake up the bones. They are easy runs where there is no pressure except to stay warm because it is still only spring time. You can pick any distance and go for a time you are comfortable with. The miles are not a lot and it is more about remembering how much I love running. Don’t get me wrong, I ran during the winter but it was hard to get out in the cold as much as I wanted. I did several races in the winter one of them was the Super Half & Game Day 5K. One of the best races of the year, I love that race. Thank you Tim.</p>
<p>The other part of pre-training is the mental part. No, not tell myself I love running but remembering there is a lot of time until the Pikes Peak Ascent. Too much too fast equals injuries and burn out. I need to tell myself the training is just like a race. Sometimes it is better to pace myself and not just go out full force. </p>
<p>Wait a minute; I haven’t pre-trained properly in the liquid carb area. Must I go right into that training mode for liquid carbs? So much to ponder, haha.</p>
<p>The pre-training period goes from mid-March to early May. Therefore, pre-training is over. It is time to start the real training because before I know it the Garden of the Gods 10 mile race will be here. I am looking forward to running with my new team mates the PPSTRC Team. I know they will help me become a better runner and will bring me miles of fun. Remember keep running my fellow runners because you inspire me. </p>
<p>Let the training begin. GO BRT!!!!</p>