Program Director’s Update for 7/19/2008

Oh yes, the miles are creeping up there.  As the temperature and humidity rise, so do the miles.  This weekend, and the next several, we're heading toward those long miles.  Chicago and Marine Corps are both boasting at least 13, and Chicago as high as 17 depending on which end of the scale  suits you.  MCM 13-15 miles.  Chicago 15-17 miles.  And there are other mileage options available; for those, get on www.tampa262.com and see who's going where and doing what.

Since we're getting into the toasty season, make sure that you are hydrating during the week.  Not just with water, but get some electrolyte beverage of choice in there too.  Eat right, and get some sleep if you're going to hit the road on Saturday looking for some higher mileage.  Be ready.  You are training for a marathon.

If you are needing a schedule adjustment or help with those long miles, please let Linda and I know.  If we don't know the answer, we will find it for you.  We're here to help you get across that finish line.  Stay in touch with your group leaders.  Get cell phone numbers and be sure you know who is going to be out in TT doing long miles at what time.  Give yourselves a grace period so no one is standing around waiting on you if you can't make it or are delayed.

No matter what mileage you're hitting right now, it pays off big time to be ready for our summer heat and humidity.  Add miles slowly.  Be a buddy and watch out for your running buds.

Which brings me to:  Most groups are arranging to meet earlier to get in long miles before Mr. Sun makes his appearance.  Hit www.tampa262.com for the latest news on when, where and who is meeting at what time.  Be on time.  Verify with your group leader that you'll be there.  So all these early morning miles mean there will be many runners who will not be meeting at 5:50 in the parking lot, but meeting at the 10 mile mark, refueling and heading out again.  I will be in the parking lot at 5:50 with the 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1 groups.  If you are not, be sure you know you're meeting spot.

Leo will be providing beverage support this weekend.  Thank you , Leo!

For your safety, if you're running in those early morning dark hours, be sure to wear a light and reflective gear.  If you're going to be needing beverage, it would be great to take some with you as sometimes those coolers just aren't out there at 4 a.m.  You are a runner, you face the traffic.  Single file when traffic approaches.  You really don't want someone else's happy hour to turn into your last hour.  Ouch!  Did I say that? 

I have a limited number of XL and XXL singlets.  Whooohooo...And I am happy to share.  I have one for Jeff already tucked neatly into a Wal-Mart bag.  And you can pry some from my fingers with a little coaxing. 

What if???

If the school parking lot is closed, and it may well be, park in the library parking lot or the street in between.  If you bring someone new, be there or be square.  And if you're running with someone who isn't familiar with TT, hang with them.  And if you're going to ask someone new to meet up with us, please do let me know.  For this weekend, I will be in the parking lot at 5:50, but many runners will not.  We want to be good hosts.

And have a great run! 

Iris and Linda