Two amazing things happened today. One, for the first time in nearly two years, Cindy and I were able to get track video footage during the DAYLIGHT hours. A miracle, I know. The other amazing thing, is finally, since before Runner Susan’s Great Chicago Marathon Meltdown, I’ve become excited about running. And it’s about dang time.
It’s odd how things happen so randomly. I met Cindy and her friend Doug at the track to run bleachers and do a little speed work and we met an amazing lady, Marsha, who has run 39 marathons and qualified for Boston 10 times. That alone is pretty spectacular, but when you factor in she is 65 years young and is still vibrantly passionate about running marathons, it is completely inspiring. Earlier this year she ran a 2-hour half. She even joined us for a few of 100s on the track. I hope to run with her a few days a week and learn a few things. She is a rock star for sure.
A few things to note before watching these fabulously daylight videos:
- It’s been a long time since I’ve done a good track workout, but you’ll get to watch my progress now that summer is here and we can video during daylight hours.
- It was 95 freaking degrees outside (35C) and the heat was sucking the life out of me – I am so not ready for the heat. Why do I live in Texas?
- We are running about 80% intensity – most were 17 seconds and some change, a few 18 plus. AKA: slower than slow.
- In a few videos I’m wearing my Asics and in a few I’m wearing the Newtons. Sue me, they are so pretty and pink and I wanted to give the Newtons another try. I am considering them as Runner Susan’s official track shoe. You should send them a note and tell them how much faster my feet look. I’m indecisive on the whole shoe issue right now as Kenza has lost in the black hole that is her bedroom misplaced my current pair of running shoes.
- We did bleachers immediately before and during the track workout, not that you care – but I was tired. And hot. And stinking hot some more. And a little hormonal. And hot.
- Cindy’s friend Doug is really fast and he wouldn’t slow down to make me look good. That was not very nice of him. Note to self: next week tie Doug’s shoe laces together when he isn’t looking.
- And finally, these videos are not pretty – there is plenty of junk in my trunk (and front) – that’s just the way it is – so get over it and move on – it’s obvious I haven’t lifted weights for a few months. Note to self: Don’t be a loser.
- In case you didn’t catch the 4am Track Torture in the dark videos, you can see them here and here. You won’t be disappointed, it takes talent to do what we do.
I know you’ve missed Cindy’s sweet commentary, so without further ado: Track Torture you can actually see!
Untitled from Runner Susan on Vimeo.
Track 3 from Runner Susan on Vimeo.
Track 2 from Runner Susan on Vimeo.
Track 1 from Runner Susan on Vimeo.
Track 5 from Runner Susan on Vimeo.
Untitled from Runner Susan on Vimeo.
What are you still doing up Susan?
Those were good! I liked it when Cindy said “She has real good (BLANK)”. I’m guessing ‘form’. Can’t half tell you’ve been coached. 17 and change sounds fast to me – I’d be 19 and change. And, if you did a crouch start, and had someone else timing… 15 and change.
Yes, the pink shoes look faster. Go Marsha! You can help her with sprinting, and she can help you with the half PB.
Oh yes, what are “bleachers”?
Go Susan!
you look good – i don’t see any junk – nice legs!
Great video Suz! I have missed doing all of this so much. Next up is bleecher torture video.
vid #1: did cindy say “we roo-roo’d doug” to be here?
vid #2: You DO have real good BLANK!
vid #3: You’re 39???
vid #4: sweet.
vid #5: You are kickin’ that old lady’s butt!
vid #6 we need more color commentary!
Good running!! On a side note, what’s an Argyle Eagle?
You have a good blank!
I like the videos. 🙂 But where are the bikes?
I question why I live here every freaking summer. 94 degrees at 8 pm? Why?????
Cool videos, I would want to see myself run on video, but not really because I have terrible form. Love doing speed workouts though, until I get to the point where I’m heaving and have to puke. And yeah, 94 degrees is not good running conditions at all!
Cindy outed you on your age!
It doesn’t look good to beat up on old runners, you know; but if that’s what gets you running then keep going.
Good to hear Cindy again. Bring on bleacher torrture.
Nice job Susan. Keep up the hard work.
David, this old runner can kick my marathon butt any day!
Excellent job. And it just amazing what a lot of older people can do. I see many an older man/woman at many races up here and only hope that I can be in half the shape they are when I get that age.