In the past few months, the world has witnessed one of the greatest sport athletes be beaten down by lies, fraud, and cheating. So much, that even his best sponsors have left him to hang which will probably end up leaving him with little to no money. More disturbingly, he had to step down from the Livestrong organization. The same charity foundation Lance Armstrong started from scratch using his own personal trials, tribulations, and accomplishments to benefit those that are being ravaged by cancer(1)[This is a footnote...since I don't have a fancy website or even know how to make footnotes, I will be using this for now on. They aren't necessary to the piece but simple digressions that add to the story].
(1) The Livestrong Foundation was the first organization to promote support during remission. After cancer treatment, one can be damaged goods, always thinking they are sick or will never be able to return to the person they once were. Even Armstrong had to be convinced and begged to get back into professional cycling from his friends and family. The first group of rides after treatment, he always thought he was sick when the slightest tick in his body would occur. It made him paranoid. Therefore, a big part of The Livestrong Foundation is providing psychiatric help during remission.
After the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) pummeled Armstrong with citations, forced him out of cycling, berated him, and unconstitutionally paid old teammates to testify against (2) him, Armstrong gave up the fight. He couldn't do it anymore. The money was mounting from court fees, lawyers, and loads of research to defend his case. It was enough. He knew he couldn't win. It was the only option that he had left.
(2) I can't prove USADA did this because if there was proof out there that a government agency used fraudulent tactics to strip Lance Armstrong of his accolades, there would be a much bigger story here, but numerous resources have hinted at it and the timing of old teammates coming out was more than coincidental (Tyler Hamilton, George Hincapie, Floyd Landis and many others). It is just very fishy. Even a few judges in Armstrong's case accused USADA of using unethical and unlawful means to build evidence against the 7 time Tour de France Champion.
Now, I am not writing this because I believe Lance Armstrong is innocent. Trust me, I am not. He is guilty as they come. I know he took performance enhancing drugs whether it was EPOs or blood transfers, Armstrong done them. And he did it better than any cyclist before or after. Lance has been tested over 500 times throughout his career and has never tested positive. He just found a way to cheat better than anyone else. Any cyclist will tell you that everyone does it (I have met a few professional cyclists through my triathlon experiences). It is just apart of the sport.
Cycling is a dirty, simple as that.
However, I am merely writing this because of USADA's unconstitutional witch hunt which in turn, ended a legacy that was exponentially more benign than evil just to enhance their own image and brand.
There have been plenty worse users than Lance Armstrong. He was just the biggest name. USADA had no problem with Armstrong for years after his 2009 retirement. It wasn't until Lance decided to compete in Ironman triathlons (3) in mid-2011. He started bringing popularity to an underground sport, which was fine, but it wasn't until Lance started breaking bike course records and winning a few races that USADA decided to step in. The moment after Lance Armstrong won Ironman Texas, USADA forced the Ironman Corporation to suspend Lance Armstrong from any professional competitions until the investigation and hearings were finished.
(3) As a triathlete, this is the underrated tragedy during this whole thing. Triathlons are growing around the world and Lance would have brought a whole new market in clientele into the spectrum leading to enhancing the sport and the Livestrong Foundation. Only good things would have come from this. Now, it becomes another what if.
Lance Armstrong biggest mistake was.... (come back on Thursday for Part 2)
Thanks for reading.
Don't forget to check out the site www.triforlifefoundation.com
Monday, December 17, 2012
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Life's Daily Struggles
With work, especially in this country, it can take away what you really want to do with your life.
Everyday, we all go to work for almost half of the day, 5 days a week (sometimes more) and put ourselves in positions to support yourself, family, and provide a future for your children (if you have any). We sacrifice doing jobs most of us don't like and execute them on a repetitious basis. Through this, we lose interest (quickly) because we aren't challenging ourselves and when we get home, priorities and responsibilities is pertinent to keep everyone around you happy and content, but what about you?
It is a scientific fact that 40% of happiness is defined from what you do and only 10% is received by accolades, status, financial income, and other materialistic means (Source: Happy documentary... if you have Netflix, give this movie a try).
Why do you think the saying, "Money doesn't buy happiness" is stated so frequently? It's because it's true. Money can buy nice things, supply a healthy, comfortable lifestyle, and relieve stress when dealing with bills but it is doesn't make anyone happy. Yeah, someone buys a new car, 60" TV, or new shoes and it feels great, but how long does that satisfaction last? A few weeks, hopefully, a few months but that content quickly dissipates and then you are finding something else to purchase to fill the void. It is a self-fulfilling monster and it compounds itself.
Once one realizes they aren't happy, most look at others or outside forces besides looking at what they are doing. We all blame others before we blame ourselves, it is just the society we live in today. That's the problem. By blaming others, we create unfortunate situations with loved ones, co-workers and most importantly, ourselves besides looking at the source and making the necessary changes to better our lives.
We create constant and consistent excuses on why we can't do what we want to do. It can be work, kids, family, living situation, and significant others, it's endless.
It doesn't get you anywhere...does it?
We always talk about things we want to do and most of the time that's all it becomes...things we talk about. Then, in a flash, we are old, wondering what we did with our lives (Ever heard of the mid-life crisis... ironically, what do most people do when they go through this...they buy something...and it doesn't solve anything) leading to rash decisions that hurt others and eventually ourselves (affairs, quitting jobs, unnecessary purchases..etc.)
It's comes down to perception.
You know where the other 50% of happiness comes from? Perception. The way you view things is paramount. That's why it is so pertinent to look at what you are doing and how you see things. It can change your life for the better. There may be some bumps along the way because some unfortunate truths become relevant in your search for happiness but the end result is for the better.
We are all extremely busy with work and taking care of others, but take some time to find out what is causing that void in your life and do something about it. It not only makes thing better for you, but everyone around you. Trust me, they will know the difference.
Or you can just watch this
Everyday, we all go to work for almost half of the day, 5 days a week (sometimes more) and put ourselves in positions to support yourself, family, and provide a future for your children (if you have any). We sacrifice doing jobs most of us don't like and execute them on a repetitious basis. Through this, we lose interest (quickly) because we aren't challenging ourselves and when we get home, priorities and responsibilities is pertinent to keep everyone around you happy and content, but what about you?
It is a scientific fact that 40% of happiness is defined from what you do and only 10% is received by accolades, status, financial income, and other materialistic means (Source: Happy documentary... if you have Netflix, give this movie a try).
Why do you think the saying, "Money doesn't buy happiness" is stated so frequently? It's because it's true. Money can buy nice things, supply a healthy, comfortable lifestyle, and relieve stress when dealing with bills but it is doesn't make anyone happy. Yeah, someone buys a new car, 60" TV, or new shoes and it feels great, but how long does that satisfaction last? A few weeks, hopefully, a few months but that content quickly dissipates and then you are finding something else to purchase to fill the void. It is a self-fulfilling monster and it compounds itself.
Once one realizes they aren't happy, most look at others or outside forces besides looking at what they are doing. We all blame others before we blame ourselves, it is just the society we live in today. That's the problem. By blaming others, we create unfortunate situations with loved ones, co-workers and most importantly, ourselves besides looking at the source and making the necessary changes to better our lives.
We create constant and consistent excuses on why we can't do what we want to do. It can be work, kids, family, living situation, and significant others, it's endless.
It doesn't get you anywhere...does it?
We always talk about things we want to do and most of the time that's all it becomes...things we talk about. Then, in a flash, we are old, wondering what we did with our lives (Ever heard of the mid-life crisis... ironically, what do most people do when they go through this...they buy something...and it doesn't solve anything) leading to rash decisions that hurt others and eventually ourselves (affairs, quitting jobs, unnecessary purchases..etc.)
It's comes down to perception.
You know where the other 50% of happiness comes from? Perception. The way you view things is paramount. That's why it is so pertinent to look at what you are doing and how you see things. It can change your life for the better. There may be some bumps along the way because some unfortunate truths become relevant in your search for happiness but the end result is for the better.
We are all extremely busy with work and taking care of others, but take some time to find out what is causing that void in your life and do something about it. It not only makes thing better for you, but everyone around you. Trust me, they will know the difference.
Or you can just watch this
Sunday, December 2, 2012
The Power of the....Heart
I wanted to say power of the legs in the title but that's not how the saying goes even though it has revealancy.
Another reason is I love how soothing running is.
Even though, I hate running in the cold. Crazy enough, I'd rather run in 95 degree heat than in 35 degree winter weather. It sounds weird and stupid, but I just hate running the first two miles in the freezing, uncomfortable cold weather. Your body does warm up and sometimes you don't even sweat because of the cool brisk air relegating your body temperature. It just that first two miles that I always think about and it stops me from running.
Nevertheless, I have been putting off running for a few days until I finally pulled off a 5 miler late Thursday night after watching Rutgers choke away their best chance to win a conference title (and a BCS bid) in over 130 years. So naturally, I hated the first couple miles, however, after, it was pure bliss.
I felt great afterwards, got 5 hours of sleep and felt more enegrized and relaxed the next day at work. It's amazing how strong running is in mood elevation. It's scientifically proven to cure depression. It gets you in shape. You are outdoors. I could go on...
Backtracking a bit, in reference to this post's title, "The Power of the Heart", I traveled down to Virginia and hand delivered a check of $4500 to both of my cousins, Robb and Kathleen to help promote a healhty lifestyle and fight cancer. They were beyond shocked. None of the Kluxen family had any idea I was raising money trying to make a small difference. They were speechless and I didn't even know how to react. I guess I was to close to the situation.
During the weekend, the feeling of humility grew and the importance to continue helping others created clarity. There is much work needed to be done and I will work to help those in need.
On December 19, the Tri for Life foundation will be working along with TGIF Friday's in North Brunswick to help raise money for a Hurricane Sandy family in need. Friday's helped raise $700 for the Kluxen family and I am hoping we can produce similar results.
So if you aren't doing anything on Wednesday night, come on out to Friday's in North Brunswick and support a great cause.
Another reason is I love how soothing running is.
Even though, I hate running in the cold. Crazy enough, I'd rather run in 95 degree heat than in 35 degree winter weather. It sounds weird and stupid, but I just hate running the first two miles in the freezing, uncomfortable cold weather. Your body does warm up and sometimes you don't even sweat because of the cool brisk air relegating your body temperature. It just that first two miles that I always think about and it stops me from running.
Nevertheless, I have been putting off running for a few days until I finally pulled off a 5 miler late Thursday night after watching Rutgers choke away their best chance to win a conference title (and a BCS bid) in over 130 years. So naturally, I hated the first couple miles, however, after, it was pure bliss.
I felt great afterwards, got 5 hours of sleep and felt more enegrized and relaxed the next day at work. It's amazing how strong running is in mood elevation. It's scientifically proven to cure depression. It gets you in shape. You are outdoors. I could go on...
Backtracking a bit, in reference to this post's title, "The Power of the Heart", I traveled down to Virginia and hand delivered a check of $4500 to both of my cousins, Robb and Kathleen to help promote a healhty lifestyle and fight cancer. They were beyond shocked. None of the Kluxen family had any idea I was raising money trying to make a small difference. They were speechless and I didn't even know how to react. I guess I was to close to the situation.
During the weekend, the feeling of humility grew and the importance to continue helping others created clarity. There is much work needed to be done and I will work to help those in need.
On December 19, the Tri for Life foundation will be working along with TGIF Friday's in North Brunswick to help raise money for a Hurricane Sandy family in need. Friday's helped raise $700 for the Kluxen family and I am hoping we can produce similar results.
So if you aren't doing anything on Wednesday night, come on out to Friday's in North Brunswick and support a great cause.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Good Times...
Whew... it feels like yesterday when I lasted posted but it has already been 12 days. Almost two weeks, and no posts.
This actually leads into the releavancy of blogging.
Blogging givesme everyone the opportunity to reflect on recent events and document so I anyone can return to it later if need be (I am acting like this is historic or something).
I am very nostalgic by the way.
But the more pertinent issue is reflection. We always get so caught in our own lives we miss so much of the little things (insert Ferris Bueller's famous quote).
So let's get caught up on a nice and easy bullet and numbering system (Thank you Bill Gates):
All and all, a fun filled day...I am the one on the left by the way
So, to leave everyone on a good note... I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend and have fun getting back to the ole grind.
Talk to you soon and on much shorter notice.
This actually leads into the releavancy of blogging.
Blogging gives
I am very nostalgic by the way.
But the more pertinent issue is reflection. We always get so caught in our own lives we miss so much of the little things (insert Ferris Bueller's famous quote).
So let's get caught up on a nice and easy bullet and numbering system (Thank you Bill Gates):
- Workouts since my last post: 3 bike trainer workouts (watching some sports and did one while Lindsay and I were watching the show Arrow on the CW [Calling All Dorks]), 4 runs (maximum distance was 6.7 miles), and some various Wii Games (shouldn't count but I am desperate)
- Drove to Virginia to visit my family on November 16 to give a lump sump of $4500 to my cousins who are suffering from cancer. Thank you to all that have donated---Thank you cards are quickly to follow
- More on this subject in the next post
- Thanksgiving Eve: I stayed in and played video games---Yes, I am 26 and I am an adult...the last time I checked
- Thanksgiving...Felt a little empty this year and I felt like such doo doo since I ate so much crap (the point of Thanksgiving)
- Black Friday: A Racksman tradition to spend the day with drinking at the oldest pub in Manhattan, McSorley's to celebrate the mass majority of American parents killing each other (literally) for the best prices for stuff you are going to give your kids, siblings, friends, and signifcant others that they are probably aren't going to use or like after two weeks.
- The drinking at McSorley's, a festive shit show thrown with the ugliest rendition of God Bless America (See my facebook page) and due to the excessive amount of drinking (12 beers in 3.5 hours time approx.) I had a severe, mid day, wide awake hang over (So much fun)
All and all, a fun filled day...I am the one on the left by the way
So, to leave everyone on a good note... I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend and have fun getting back to the ole grind.
Talk to you soon and on much shorter notice.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Closing Time
In my previous post, I whined and complained about my body slowly decaying (even though I am in great shape) leading to a knee injury when I played some flag football with friends. I thought I would be out for a week due to the immense pain I was in on Sunday night, but tonight I couldn't help myself.
When you workout for so many years, your body and mind can go into a lull during a break, even though it's a small break. It's been three days since the injury and already I feel restless, groggy, and down. Not in a depressing matter, but my perception of things becomes altered in a negative sense.
Therefore, a good workout is in need.
So tonight, I put the bike on the trainer and watched Thunder vs. Grizzlies (NBA... just so we're clear), worked out for 2 hours and I feel really good right now. I will probably not get to sleep until around 1, which anounts to 5 hours of sleep, but I guarantee you, I will be more lively than I have been the previous three days. Now, keep in mind, I have been getting at least 8 hours of sleep the previous few days.
All of the endorphins, sense of accomplishment, and adrenaline creates abetter me (sorry, that was lame) complete me (I suck at this). You get where I am going.
Ask any hardworking ahtlete trying to better themselves in their respective sport and they will tell you that they are more alert, active, and lively when they workout consistently (and intelligently, that's an important note), even if sleep is lost (which it will be...it just comes with the territory).
I understand it sounds crazy when I tell everyone this but it is the truth. I still even don't fully comprehend it, but I follow the pattern.
The point I am trying to get to is I hear some many people make up excuses to not workout, that they don't have the time or too much to do. I am hear to tell you, you do have the time. Sleep can be compromised if you use your time wisely. There is a reason people workout continually: you feel so effin good afterwards.
Just try it.
When you workout for so many years, your body and mind can go into a lull during a break, even though it's a small break. It's been three days since the injury and already I feel restless, groggy, and down. Not in a depressing matter, but my perception of things becomes altered in a negative sense.
Therefore, a good workout is in need.
So tonight, I put the bike on the trainer and watched Thunder vs. Grizzlies (NBA... just so we're clear), worked out for 2 hours and I feel really good right now. I will probably not get to sleep until around 1, which anounts to 5 hours of sleep, but I guarantee you, I will be more lively than I have been the previous three days. Now, keep in mind, I have been getting at least 8 hours of sleep the previous few days.
All of the endorphins, sense of accomplishment, and adrenaline creates a
Ask any hardworking ahtlete trying to better themselves in their respective sport and they will tell you that they are more alert, active, and lively when they workout consistently (and intelligently, that's an important note), even if sleep is lost (which it will be...it just comes with the territory).
I understand it sounds crazy when I tell everyone this but it is the truth. I still even don't fully comprehend it, but I follow the pattern.
The point I am trying to get to is I hear some many people make up excuses to not workout, that they don't have the time or too much to do. I am hear to tell you, you do have the time. Sleep can be compromised if you use your time wisely. There is a reason people workout continually: you feel so effin good afterwards.
Just try it.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Nobody Beats Father Time
As some of you may know, I started this website to spread the Tri For Life Foundation brand. A program to raise money for multiple charities, communities, and those close to me in need. I also use blogging as a vehicle to promote future sponsors, races, and any other triathlon based experiences to illustrate the hard work and dedication that every triathlete goes through. What most of you don't know is, I using this a catalyst to motivate myself. To get to me to the next level. I am working towards becoming a part time professional athlete. With that, I have learn a few things, especially since I am doing most of this on the fly (numerous errors has already occurred).
Today, I was planning on throwing the frisbee with a few friends and then watch football at a local bar. However, when I arrived to the high school field, a few of friends were playing flag football, which led me to a change of plans.
And before I continue, this has to be stated. I am retardedly competitve. It's almost pathological. Compare me to Michael Jordan in that respect. I hate losing and will do anything (in the confines of the rules) to win at whatever I am playing. It could be the Super Bowl or Monopoly, I play to to be the victor.
It makes sense I want to become a part time professional triathlete.
Anyway, during the football game I had (I really didn't have to, I am just retardedly competitive... if I didn't cover that) to drive for multiple tackles and catches trying to put my team in the best position to win (the game ended in a tie by the way... figures). The problem is I dive the same way every time. I don't know any better. I land on my effin right knee every single effin time. After the third time, my knee had enough. I could barely walk without a limp. I never had this problem before but this is becoming a concerning trend. I am getting older and I can't do these type of things anymore. I always put my body to try and make the big play. My nickname in basketball was the human mop for Christ's sake, but I can't put my body through this anymore . One, I can't take the pounding like I used to (phrasing) and two and most importantly, I have to be smarter than this. I am planning on building a foundation and part time career on a perfomance base system.
I still want to compete and engage in friendly competition (who am I kidding) but I have to be smarter. Nobody beats father time and I am learning like everyone else does... When your body fails you.
Baz Luhrmann once said "You don't know the power of your youth until they have faded." Well Baz, I can't stand how right you are. That doesn't mean, I can't learn how to extend the power of my youth. I will be out for a week due to this injury. I can't find a better place to start to learn from this.
Too much is at stake.
Today, I was planning on throwing the frisbee with a few friends and then watch football at a local bar. However, when I arrived to the high school field, a few of friends were playing flag football, which led me to a change of plans.
And before I continue, this has to be stated. I am retardedly competitve. It's almost pathological. Compare me to Michael Jordan in that respect. I hate losing and will do anything (in the confines of the rules) to win at whatever I am playing. It could be the Super Bowl or Monopoly, I play to to be the victor.
It makes sense I want to become a part time professional triathlete.
Anyway, during the football game I had (I really didn't have to, I am just retardedly competitive... if I didn't cover that) to drive for multiple tackles and catches trying to put my team in the best position to win (the game ended in a tie by the way... figures). The problem is I dive the same way every time. I don't know any better. I land on my effin right knee every single effin time. After the third time, my knee had enough. I could barely walk without a limp. I never had this problem before but this is becoming a concerning trend. I am getting older and I can't do these type of things anymore. I always put my body to try and make the big play. My nickname in basketball was the human mop for Christ's sake, but I can't put my body through this anymore . One, I can't take the pounding like I used to (phrasing) and two and most importantly, I have to be smarter than this. I am planning on building a foundation and part time career on a perfomance base system.
I still want to compete and engage in friendly competition (who am I kidding) but I have to be smarter. Nobody beats father time and I am learning like everyone else does... When your body fails you.
Baz Luhrmann once said "You don't know the power of your youth until they have faded." Well Baz, I can't stand how right you are. That doesn't mean, I can't learn how to extend the power of my youth. I will be out for a week due to this injury. I can't find a better place to start to learn from this.
Too much is at stake.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Need the release...
Since Hurricane Sandy hit on Monday night, it was been crazy to say the least. Actually, using the word crazy to describe the frenzied pace I have been living this past week and a half is disrespectful to the realm of chaos.
When I returned to work on Wednesday, I have not stopped. The least amount of hours I have worked in day since that time is 9 hours. No exaggeration. And the max is 16.
As anyone can imagine, I am exhausted. All I want to do is sleep. Nothing else. But as any devoted runner, cyclist, triathlete, or any dedicated athlete will tell you, working out is a must. The endorphins become such a need on a regular basis, but in extremely stressful times, you need it to free your. I know that sounds hippish (if that's word) but hear me out. Working, family, and factors that are outside of your control become a burden and can weigh you down. Many find other outlets to get away from it all. Whatever method one uses is to get through the next day. For me, I need it to thrive.
Working out becomes a double edge positive sword: On one end, you want to stay shape and the other, you need it for sanity. The latter is more pertinent. I would come home some days with a splitting headache and then I would put the bike on the trainer or go for a run and feel superb afterwards. It helped me relax so I could start the cycle all over again. It's been so time stressed, I started using Wii Fit to get a half decent workout in.
Today, I got off at four. So I am going to take a nap, go for a run, then put the bike on the trainer. Translation: It's been a long week and I am working this weekend.
When I returned to work on Wednesday, I have not stopped. The least amount of hours I have worked in day since that time is 9 hours. No exaggeration. And the max is 16.
As anyone can imagine, I am exhausted. All I want to do is sleep. Nothing else. But as any devoted runner, cyclist, triathlete, or any dedicated athlete will tell you, working out is a must. The endorphins become such a need on a regular basis, but in extremely stressful times, you need it to free your. I know that sounds hippish (if that's word) but hear me out. Working, family, and factors that are outside of your control become a burden and can weigh you down. Many find other outlets to get away from it all. Whatever method one uses is to get through the next day. For me, I need it to thrive.
Working out becomes a double edge positive sword: On one end, you want to stay shape and the other, you need it for sanity. The latter is more pertinent. I would come home some days with a splitting headache and then I would put the bike on the trainer or go for a run and feel superb afterwards. It helped me relax so I could start the cycle all over again. It's been so time stressed, I started using Wii Fit to get a half decent workout in.
Today, I got off at four. So I am going to take a nap, go for a run, then put the bike on the trainer. Translation: It's been a long week and I am working this weekend.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Sandy's Power
Yesterday, I went on a 8+ mile run through Plainfield, Scotch Plains, Edison, and South Plainfield for two reasons: relieve the cabin fever and to see the damage nearby. The trip was pretty breathtaking.
Unless a storm like this hits every year (which is possible..... Oh, God, Al Gore may be right), I may never experience a run like this ever again. I primarily run on roads, unless of course, if I go to trails.
Today, however, running on the streets was pretty much a trail run dodging branches, tree limbs, a massive amount of leaves, power line poles, and of course, trees. Well, take out the power line poles and you have a trail run. It was crazy though. It was so frequent to see power lines on the road, it felt weird when I didn't see one in a quarter mile.
The incredible and scary thing is, all of this was within a three mile radius from my home. Easily, this could have happened to me but it didn't and that is something to celebrate. Yes, I know there aren't as many trees on my street compared to Plainfield and Scotch Plains but it just makes you thankful for things breaking your way.
We, as a socitey always complain about the negative (human nature) but we never celebrate the small (or in this case, big) victories that occur in our life. I go on facebook and must of my friends are complaining about losing power. It's really not that big of deal. If anyone was that concerned about losing the ability to go on their laptop or Ipad, they would have purchased a generator after Hurricane Irene (totally indefensible if you didn't). Plus, if any of these people would go to a store, restuarant or bar and watch the news, they will see that the south side of Staten Island is almost completely gone, Manhattan is a mess, 20,000 people are STILL stranded in Hoboken, and the Jersey Shore will never be the same.
Newsflash: the storm isn't over. The south side of Sandy carried the heavy rainfall. If that rain goes into the Delaware water basin (which it is doing right now), where do you think it will outlet to?
It's on the tip of your tongue but your afraid to say it... Go On.... The Delaware River
It will flood everything and destroy anything in it's path on both the PA and NJ side.
It's Science...
So please be thankful for what or what didn't occur instead of complaining.
Unless a storm like this hits every year (which is possible..... Oh, God, Al Gore may be right), I may never experience a run like this ever again. I primarily run on roads, unless of course, if I go to trails.
Today, however, running on the streets was pretty much a trail run dodging branches, tree limbs, a massive amount of leaves, power line poles, and of course, trees. Well, take out the power line poles and you have a trail run. It was crazy though. It was so frequent to see power lines on the road, it felt weird when I didn't see one in a quarter mile.
The incredible and scary thing is, all of this was within a three mile radius from my home. Easily, this could have happened to me but it didn't and that is something to celebrate. Yes, I know there aren't as many trees on my street compared to Plainfield and Scotch Plains but it just makes you thankful for things breaking your way.
We, as a socitey always complain about the negative (human nature) but we never celebrate the small (or in this case, big) victories that occur in our life. I go on facebook and must of my friends are complaining about losing power. It's really not that big of deal. If anyone was that concerned about losing the ability to go on their laptop or Ipad, they would have purchased a generator after Hurricane Irene (totally indefensible if you didn't). Plus, if any of these people would go to a store, restuarant or bar and watch the news, they will see that the south side of Staten Island is almost completely gone, Manhattan is a mess, 20,000 people are STILL stranded in Hoboken, and the Jersey Shore will never be the same.
Newsflash: the storm isn't over. The south side of Sandy carried the heavy rainfall. If that rain goes into the Delaware water basin (which it is doing right now), where do you think it will outlet to?
It's on the tip of your tongue but your afraid to say it... Go On.... The Delaware River
It will flood everything and destroy anything in it's path on both the PA and NJ side.
It's Science...
So please be thankful for what or what didn't occur instead of complaining.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Where was I?
After finishing Ironman Wales a few weeks ago, it's time to get back into the thick of things. I have started training again but not at the level I was. You have to give your body some time off. It's an extremely tough thing to ask of yourself to sustain the level of Ironman intensity when training.
The four week layoff I took off after the ironman was the first time I haven't done anything in the endurance game in 2 1/2 years. It feels pretty weird. My mind and body were on Cloud 9 during the break but during the tail end, I started to drive myself crazy. I started to get impatient and moody, it's very similar to drug users when they go through withdrawal after they stop using. That's the weird thing about long distance competitors, primitively, you are no different than a drug user. You need a fix. You need an escape. And only a certain level of masochism will suffice the sense of itchiness your body creates when you don't get the necessary release.
Therefore, I started where I left off, running, swimming, biking, and doing core exercises to stay in shape. I just really want to stay in Olympic shape until I start serious training in February. I have the most demanding race schedule in my short triathlon career coming up and I have to be in peak position. I want to start getting sponsored and approach part time professional level but it's going to take some hard work, luck, and determination.
This will not only help myself but the foundation. The better I get, the better the foundation gets. So, there is really only one option. Do better
The four week layoff I took off after the ironman was the first time I haven't done anything in the endurance game in 2 1/2 years. It feels pretty weird. My mind and body were on Cloud 9 during the break but during the tail end, I started to drive myself crazy. I started to get impatient and moody, it's very similar to drug users when they go through withdrawal after they stop using. That's the weird thing about long distance competitors, primitively, you are no different than a drug user. You need a fix. You need an escape. And only a certain level of masochism will suffice the sense of itchiness your body creates when you don't get the necessary release.
Therefore, I started where I left off, running, swimming, biking, and doing core exercises to stay in shape. I just really want to stay in Olympic shape until I start serious training in February. I have the most demanding race schedule in my short triathlon career coming up and I have to be in peak position. I want to start getting sponsored and approach part time professional level but it's going to take some hard work, luck, and determination.
This will not only help myself but the foundation. The better I get, the better the foundation gets. So, there is really only one option. Do better
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