2009

9 PRs may sound impressive… so may running my two fastest marathons, ever, within 3 weeks of each other… or maybe the 10th consecutive USATF-NE Ironrunner. But the impressive numbers only tell part of the story.

2009 got me away from MVS stress, club politics, extensive array of meetings, committees, volunteer expectations, pressure regarding my personal choice of crosstraining. We could just run with Goon Squad and GTD... and that is what we did... hard, fast, focused & passionately.

I was secretly attempting to pull off my first sub 3:30 marathon and asked PRof to put together my program. Doc jokes that there is GTD Level 1 and Level 2, but I get "Goat Level" program. In other words, Goatie doesn't time daily runs, tries to tack on extra miles, needs a kick in the a$$ for secondaries, does long runs too close to track workout... did I mention Goaties devise their own secondaries, pick-up sessions and try to run Mt Washington too?

To PRof, it's no problem at all.

With the aggressive marathon goal, PRof began putting the components in place early in the year... then, a whole bunch of PRs started happening. Derry, Amherst, Mt. Washington, Hollis 5K… there were big deal, surprising breakthroughs. Here's a look at some of it:

PR’s
Boston Prep 16 miler, 7:54 pace (10 minutes faster than previous best)
Amherst 10 miler 1:14:53 (previous best 1:15:16)
Bedford 12K 54:10 (previous best 55:10)
Hollis Fast 5K 19:58 (previous best 21:04 at Hollis course)
Mt Washington 1:41:03 (previous best 1:43:28)
Yankee 10 miler 1:14:09 (previous best 1:14:53 Amherst above)
CHaD Half Marathon 1:35:41, 3rd master, 6th woman (previous best 1:40:44)
Lone Gull 10K 43:04 (previous best 47:15)
Clarence Demar Marathon 3:27:32, 3rd master, 7th woman (previous best 3:31:59)

Other Good Races, but not PRs
SEA 5K – 7th woman, 3rd division
Rhody 5K 21:16 (previous best 21:57 non-Hollis 5K)
Baystate Marathon 3:31:35 (second fastest marathon ever)

(Photo from CHaD Half Marathon finish)

17 degrees, feels like 4

Just got back from 8 miler... 17 degrees, feels like 4 degrees... but it wasn't too bad. Wore the right layers, found my form and had David Bowie purring in my ears.

Growing up, I had a goat who looked just like this one. I'd put a harness on him, take him for walks and try to teach him how to go over horse jumps.

Goon Smash & Bash Awards Party

(Photo with GTD trackmates, Tom Kinneman and Carmela Taveras)

Almost any other Tuesday night, we'd be taking pleasure in our time with GTD trackmates... so why should last night be any different?

The 1st Goon Squad Awards night reminded us that we take our running as seriously as we take our amusement... hilarious fun, glamour, extravagance... combined with genuine & earnest feelings which run deep for our coach and for each other... and of course, the passion we share for simply doing what we love.

Winners of awards:

MOST VALUABLE GOON FOR 2009

Sarah "Mountain Goat" Prescott & Dan "Hill Checker" Hill

THUGIEST GOON: Dan "Hill Checker" Hill

CRAZIEST GOON: Michael "Whacko" Bower

WHINIEST GOON: Jim "Taz" Johnson

GOONIEST GOON: Christopher "Doctor Death:-/" Chetsas CHEERLEADING GOON: Glenn "Mr Gambino" Simm

TOUGHEST GOON: John "Pusher" Murphy

MOST CONTRIBUTING GOON Gina "OCG" Newton & Christopher "Doctor Death:-/" Chetsas

HARDEST WORKING GOON: Sarah "Mountain Goat" Prescott

MOST IMPROVED GOON: Dan "Hill Checker" Hill & Hank "Spanky" Wilder

HONORABLE GOONS: Jay "Brewski" Newton, Jim "Taz" Johnson, Peter "Sticks" Chetsas & Mike"Kingpin" Colizzi

MOST HONORABLE GOON: Fernando "Professor" Braz

MOST WORTHY GOON: Little Pusher (John Murphy's Son)

USATF, NE Grand Prix 2010 Races

Results are in... check races selected at Goon Squad website

PRofessor in Ice Bath

We GTD runners of PRofessor Braz know the ice bath. The theory is to speed recovery.

Goatie tries to do an ice bath every week after long run... also after races.

Yesterday reminded me that winter ice baths are less enjoyable, but need less ice. Doc D fortunately pointed out that they don't need to be -50 degrees. Tina the Machina's tip is wear socks & a hat during winter ice baths. Other creative ideas include the Triages who have a special system rigged up; Psycho did also, plus Punisher's kiddie pool.

Personal ice bath record: 4 ice baths in one week... the week between Lone Gull 10K and Baystate Marathon. That's nothing compared to an elite marathoner who I heard was doing 2 a day.

Photo courtesy Dave Leonard

Track workout 10.27.09

Leaving work it wasn't raining, but during the drive to track, drizzle started. Walking towards the track I met up with Jim Vitale, who commented how many GTD runners were already warming up... regardless of time of year, weather, darkness. My group was Showtime and Punisher and the in-and-outs felt just right coming off Baystate Marathon...PRofessor knows what he's doing. Afterwards, we couldn't help ourselves and wanted to stay and run longer, so five Goons headed off the track for a cooldown in the drizzly darkness... so enjoyable, we probably would have kept going for hours if someone suggested it

USATF NE Ironunner Ceremony, 2009

I didn't dare to say it until it was done, but Baystate Marathon on October 18, 2009 marked my 70th consecutive USATF, New England Championship Grand Prix race... yes, ten years, ten Ironrunner jackets... I should get a life, huh? Wait second, this is what I enjoy.

Why was this year the sweetest?
** First year for Goon Squad Runners & escape from an evil empire
** Teammate, Smokin' Ivy led our Goon Squad Master's Women to 2nd place at Baystate, the New England Marathon Championship and I got to help us score, along with Enforcer scoring
** My Ironrunner jacket fits... size XX Small

Jacket Getting Goons 2009: Codfather, Spanky, Showtime, Doctor Death, Hill Check, Enforcer, Goatie

Thanks Jim Garcia for the photo from the Ironrunner ceremony and to USATF New England.

Clarence Demar Marathon

Nothing was going to stop us... not the moose, or the pouring rain that sent us hydroplaning, or sleeplessness or prospect of starting chemo the next day ... 3 Goons were on a mission. First GSR members at bat for fall marathon season and we wanted to start it off right for our GTD/GSR trackmates & teammates.

It was a huge success. Doc D had his 3rd Boston qualifier of the year, Pusher amazed us all given limited training & starting chemo today and Goatie finally took it under 3:30 with a 4.5 minute marathon PR! (3rd master, 7th woman) Doc & Pusher already had their sub 3:30's... Goatie wanted hers too. Goatie's parents were there which made it especially meaningful and our successful performances meant lots of celebrating... thanks so much to the wonderful Doc D!!! Minutes after we finished we went for warm, dry clothes and to phone our results of success to GTD coach, Professor Fernando. Nothing better.

Race report to come, but for now:

RESULTS

3:27:32, 7:55 pace, Goatie
3:31:41, 8:05 pace, Doctor Death
3:33:09, 8:08 pace, Pusher

Lone Gull, USATF New England 10K Championship

Sixth Race: of the USATF New England Grand Prix Series

Seven AM: rendezvous at Goon Central with expert chauffeur Doc D & Sonic Boom

Shirts: Best race shirt I've received... Nike long sleeve, perfect fit, stylin'

Scenic course: along Atlantic Ocean, Gloucester MA

Saltwater in our shoes: Doc D and I stood waist deep in the ocean (postrace icebath) watching our shoes on the beach as they began moving with the waves as tide coming in

Scrambled eggs & orange juice: exceptional post race food

Some numbers:

* 18 Goons!! Hillchecka (PR), Codfather, Professor, Taz, Animal (PR), OCG (PR), Brewski (PR), Showtime (PR), Sonic Boom (PR), Doc D, Mrs. Triage, Mr. Triage (PR), Mr. Gambino, Enforcer, The Machina (PR), Spanky, Goatie (PR), Silent Assassin (PR)

Substantial 10K PR's for Goons, thank you Professor / GTD

* Goatie Time: 43:04, 6:56 pace = PR.

* GSR masters women 4th and fantastically perfect day.

Photo courtesy of the incredible Mrs. Triage

Track workout 9.08.09

After 24 undulating miles on Sunday on a vertical course never previously attempted... which Doctor Death was crazy to come up with... thankfully, Professor's expertise and fine-tuning my "mile repeats workout" brought success yesterday.

Plus, Goatie fortunately had Pusher and special guest pacer, legendary Matt Pimentel (Psycho) with her on the oval for this "hands on the knees" night. There was inexorable effort on the track for marathoners and roadies alike... congratulations to all on a job well done.

Track workout 9.01.09

Group 3B... Pusher, Goatie and Doctor Death... Hillcheck missing from photo... probably making up laps he missed... our group was 3 of the GSR founders and GSR teammate Pusher... group of all Goons!

Did you see the article in New England Runner Magazine, page 55 regarding Goon Squad Runners? We most certainly are a group of running friends. Newest Goon Squad member Dan Frank said eloquently following the overwhelming response he received from his fellow teammates, "nice to be a member of an club you want to be a member of."

p.s. Pusher is scheduled to start chemo the day after our marathon... he's such a freakin' trooper.

Photo credit, Dave Smith

What does this photo have to do with running? After 22 miles with speed on a hot, humid August day, it sometimes equals a Goon Quality "emergency stomach evacuation"... this photo also that day, represents not allowing it to get you down. But, next time Goatie is connecting with Mrs. Triage's old work buddy, an EMT, who on the weekends used to hook himself up to an IV when necessary. Please give me an IV ! Cougar wants one too!

Track workout 8.18.09

Thank you group, Punisher, Pusher, OCG, Carmela & Tom, for pulling Goatie through workout last night... as Professor F explained, the session tested our will, patience, execution and humor. F knows so much about coaching... just listen to him and follow the program

Plus - Pusher back on the track last night... for the entire workout

Photo credit, Dave Smith

Move up to 50 laps

Moved up from a 30 lap watch to a 50 lap this weekend... Professor F's GTD training! Timex... always the same button set-up and this is an attractive match to the uniforms, huh?

Track workout 8.05.09

First night of 'fall' track session was warm, not hot, besides we're acclimated by August. Turnout for GTD was phenomenal... people know a good thing. What Professor F does, works. My track partner, Will, noted the impact of following F's program... he did 6:52 pace at Yankee Homecoming 10 miler last week!

My group of 'boys', Will & Tom, were exceptional trackmates... plus seeing friends... plus warm-up/cool-down with elites Taz, Kara, Codfather, Machina, Mr. T... no question, nothing better

Flotilla of Bodyguards

New England Runner Magazine, Sept/Oct 2005

Pulled out this photo... Doc D and Pusher on my immediate sides... I still have my flotilla of bodyguards in our new GSR team.

Race: Whirlaway 10K/USATF-NE Grand Prix

Pusher reports that, "Surgery went as expected, will take a little while to mend because of where the incision is... but I will be up and Gooning in no time!"

Yankee Homecoming, Newburyport

Doc D said I have to reveal that I was so tired after we got back in the Goon limo, I got in my car and went the wrong way, getting stuck in the bumper-to-bumper traffic on 495 AGAIN... I think it just means that I raced my ass off and I was totally spent.

Here's my race report on the GSR website... check out my teammates Yankee Race Reports too, fantastic.

NUMBERS:
** 3rd consecutive Yankee Homecoming
** 12 second PR for 10 mile distance
** 1:14:49 7:29 (8/105 division) watch time: 1:14:37, 7:27
** GSR women’s masters team, 2nd overall

"the Pusher"

Trumpets Sound!!!!

Welcome to GSR, John Murphy, Official Goon Name “the Pusher”… nope, it's not lack of track etiquette, it’s his profession… drug pusher… and, ahhhh maybe pushing the accelerator on the Mustang.

We've always enjoyed Pusher’s humor, loyalty and fun attitude, he’s hung with the GSR circle for years… many miles together, Olympic Trials, helping Goatie over chain link fences, sliding dives, Boston on a stress fracture, with no whining... he's true GSR material.

Tomorrow, Pusher has non-running related surgery... so prayers and thoughts are with him. He said, "about 15 years ago I was diagnosed with testicular cancer. I had surgery, radiation etc and was clean as a whistle until about 10 days ago. The urologist found a mass and it needs to be removed. Depending on what they find, it'll be radiation, chemo or a combo of both. But, I'm not whining. One of the first questions I asked was 'when can I get back to running?' So I will be back at the oval with you Goons soon. I will keep you all up to date ."
-Pusher

PS, don't worry. I got through this once before. It won't stop me this time either.

USATF, New England Ironrunners, 2008

Jacket ceremony, October 2008... where are they now? I just found 7 GSR runners and at least 8 GTD runners

Am I right?

Hockomock Swamp Rat Profile

Hockomock Swamp Rat is a ridiculously hilarious underground running magazine... 'head rat' must have felt sorry for me... put my profile in a few years ago. Runners I had never met still mention the profile and know me from it. Nothing cooler, huh?

Link below is more about the Swamp Rat... it is absolutely worth the subscription. Hockomock Swamp Rat

USATF Exchange Zone Magazine

Photo: Bedford, USATF, New England 12K Championship, Sonic Boom, Doc Death, Hillcheck, Spanky, Enforcer, Silent Assassin, Goatie in front.

The article below appeared in recent USATF Exchange Zone Magazine and was written by a member of USATF-NE Board of Governors, Lisa Doucett, who serves as Women's Long Distance Running Chair... she's hard core, old school, no nonsense, serious athlete... we shared lots of time on trails and hills during the USATF-NE Mountain Series 2007, many years of USATF-NE Grand Prix races and I recently had the opportunity to chase her up Mt Washington again, but alas couldn't catch her again.

Being recognized by one's peers is touching.

article ~

WOMEN'S LONG DISTANCE RUNNING PROFILE:

SARAH PRESCOTT

Sarah Prescott, a fixture at most USATF New England Grand Prix races as well as the Mountain Series is a founding member of the Goon Squad Runners, hence the "G" singlet proudly displayed in the photo. Sarah has been running for over 30 years and calls Con­cord, New Hampshire home. She prefers races over the half mara­thon length, but will compete at just about any distance. I know I am one of many women runners who watch that long ponytail disappear ahead of me in races. Since she is not only a very good runner, but also a nice person, it makes it more tolerable than usual to get left be­hind.

The Goon Squad evolved out of four friends and running partners deciding to make their dedication to running official and in­viting their colleagues to join them in a no-dues, no-frills club. All Goons must also have a nickname, and Sarah is known as the Mountain Goat, a well deserved moniker. Running in a highly competitive divi­sion, Sarah routinely places in the top spots in the USATF NE Mountain Series and at the Mount Washington Road Race. In addition to her love of steep grade climbs, Sarah has run 21 marathons, a 50K, and has been an Iron Runner in nine consecutive USATF-NE Grand Prix series. Her 3:31:59 in 2008 is her marathon PR and has logged nine Boston Marathon qualifiers.

Perpetually upbeat, Sarah arrives at races ready to go with a plan and a goal. Her focus and joy for the sport are admirable and conta­gious. Though she is racing to win, she has kind words and encour­agement for other participants, even when she is passing them (I speak from personal experience). Look for Sarah at area USATF­NE events and beyond, and especially on mountain tops.

Track workout 7.07.09

Minutes after Professor F emailed the training goals and workout objectives, Enforcer was on my case... we've done so many workouts/races together, she knows what I'd try to do at workout while she's away on vacation... so Goatie was reigned in via internet... Enforcer truly lives up to her name... love it.

Buckets of rain ended just before the workout. My group, Sonic Boom, Carmella and fast dude hit the target times, even though it looked easier on paper than it turned out to be... fellow Goons: OCG, Brewski, Spanky nailed their workouts and I chatted with Steph Triage on cell who'll do hers today. Doctor Death got sidelined by work. Any GTD runners doing their workout today, adhere to Coach Annie and Professor's email, or else you too may hear from the Enforcer

Mount Washington Road Race 2009

(photo at summit, Judge, Spanky & Goatie)


I got up at 4:00 and drove familiar route to White Mountains. I’m a Cow Hampshire native, my parents too, so it’s like Christmas morning for my GoatDad when I run Mount Washington.

MomGoat called me the night before with mental prep I could draw upon… something about a magnetic mountain pulling me uphill and also Mount Washington being sacred to Native Americans and my Native American lineage.

It was misting when I arrived, saw Judge, Spanky and Taz, then Goatie stepped into a grassy ravine filled with water… socks wet already. Judge too, we took off socks to try to squeeze out some of the water.

Judge, Spank & I warmed up then I got into an unfortunately slow line for porta-john and almost missed the start. Sprinting to the line I did glove hand off to GoatDad, high five with RD Bob Teschek, good luck hug with 3 time Mt Washington winner Dave Dunham (17 sub 1:10 finishes), quick fortuities with GTD runners Jim Johnson (Taz) & Jon Healey and lined up with Bob Hodge (13 top 10 finishes).

GoatDad and Dave Leonard stood on the rocks and yelled to me as we started the incline. It was humid and foggy and I looked around wondering if Spanky was nearby. The Goons had bet that Spanky and Goatie would duel it to the top. Spanky is two groups ahead of me at GTD track, so I feared it could be a painful duel for Goatie. As the only Goon girl racing against the Goon boys, Codfather encouraged me: “you eat men for breakfast” and “mountain goats always are at home charging straight up the mountain leading the pack of beer guzzling males.” Fearing Spank’s sneak attack like New Bedford, I pushed harder.

The miles actually went by quickly and I kept checking in on my form to reduce the hurt. I wanted to punch one dude who kept running too close to me… I’d speed up, him too… I’d go to the left, him too… I got tired of it, gave him a “look”… finally away.

Somewhere around 5-6, walking started to seem better than running, so I asked two guys near me to make me start running again. Firmly, the guy on my left said, “Let’s go, run to the bottom of that hill!!!!” I replied, “Hahahaha, it’s ALL a hill!!” But his push got me going and we ran together until a steeper incline, then we looked at each other and he was ready for me to back off, but I had found my extra gear to keep running strong.

I saw the Dunham entourage running down, but at a higher point than last year. Logically, I figured, I very well could be faster than last year… he must have spent exactly the same time at the top, right?! Given my level of exhaustion, this way of thinking made more sense than looking at my watch.

Scott Mason was a wonderful sight and I knew not far until the finish. I saw Kristin, Taz and heard lots of cheering and I smiled about the ridiculousness of the wall… it’s totally nuts. I saw the clock in 1:40:50s and knew it had been a good run… finished just over 1:41... stupid 4 seconds over, rather be in 1:40’s, but no whining, it was a 2.5 minute PR.

I waited for Spanky & Judge who made me proud of their strong runs and with absolutely no whining or complaining about the challenge they had just endured. Typical Goatie made them go to the summit for a photo and then led them through wrong parking area… professing some knowledge of the location of Taz’s bro-in-law’s car.

Learning from post-mountain race lightheadness, I forced some Gatorade, put on my Goon jacket and Judge & I met up with GoatDad and Scott Mason at the bottom. No kidding, Dad was so pleased, you’d think I had won… glad he enjoyed it, all I did was run.

Judge and I phoned Doc D with our Goon update and I hit the road south.

Thank you so much to all my GTD buddies for their kind support and encouragement, Mrs T, Sonic Boom and I had worked hills together, honorary Goon Scott Mason, Professor Fernando and of course, Doc D who makes me one very lucky & happy Goatie

Track workout 6.30.09

At track last night, the Enforcer encouraged me to move up to their faster group... trusting her advice, I hopped in with them. Briefly overexuberant, I got reigned in by the bus driver arm... don't step over the line! I recoiled suitably. Execution, discipline and support of each other... plus some Goonfun... Coach Professor Fernando taught us well.

The Wall - 22%

Fortunately, no Goons tripped and fell off the side

Know the signs on the side of the road warning trucks about a 8% or 9% hill?

The Mt. Washington Auto Road is 7.6 miles in length, has an average grade of 11.5% with extended sections of 18%, and the last 50 yards is a 22% "wall" to the finish. The course rises 4650 vertical feet from start to finish.

Top photo is of my backside, no but really, you can see the clouds to the right and a bit of the incline. The second shot, look at the angle of my body. Thank you Kristin for the great photos.

Mt Washington Road Race

It was an incredible day at the rock pile

Happy goat hooves with a 2.5 minute PR... thank you Doc for pushing me through the long training runs... thanks MT, Enforcer & my buddies for all their support... couldn't do it without you... Professor, I took the GTD to the top with pride!

Ahhh, this race is so "pure" ... not wimpified, yuppified, megamerchandised.

Just before race director Bob Teschek starts the race, he always reminds you "there is only one hill." Of course that hill is more than 7.6 miles long with nearly 5,000 feet of climb, a sadistic test of running ability. It's really no mystery why there are so many runners willing to put themselves through this anaerobic hell, and why hundreds of disappointed more wish they could, but were not "lucky" enough to get picked in the lottery. It's the challenge, of course. The fact that it is so difficult is precisely the reason so many are so driven to try a race that leaves even the most accomplished runners gasping for breath. As one famous writer once said, " I don't enjoy writing at all, but I do enjoy having written." That pretty much sums up running up Mt. Washington. Courtesy Don Allison.

MG Race report to come

MG race info:

** 3rd consecutive Mt. Washington

** 1:41:03 (2.5 min PR)

** 6th in division

Thanks for the photos Scott Mason!!

GTD² Recognition

GTD² ~~ Going The Distance ~~ Getting Things Done

At the whistle, GTD runners circle around the coaches for last minute instruction. Then unexpectedly last night, the coaches also announced recognition for three GTD runners who contributed in a broader scope to our GTD family & running community... for Getting Things Done... Dave Smith, Donna Phaneuf and me.

We three were humbled listening to descriptions of ourselves, because we simply do what we do because we love running, we love Coach Fernando & we love our GTD family. It gives back to us. The handsome, limited edition black t-shirts embroidered with the Going The Distance logo were graciously presented by Fernando... they will be cherished... one, for the GTD² honor they represent and two, because we know the "gem" of what we have with GTD. Get it? GTD squared... two...

GTD wear

I'm all Goon and registered for Hollis Fast 5K race last Wednesday as a Goon, plus wanted to give my coach, friend and fellow Goon some visibility... my debut of GTD uniform... GTD is Going the Distance, Fernando's coaching service.

GTD runners from four clubs competed at Hollis... including women's winner Tammie Robie (16:54) who loved the "FB" on the back of the singlet... typical Goat move, gave it a wiggle.

Can you see the FB logo on the shorts too?
The logo reminds me of Japanese rising sun... remember Fernando was U.S.A. Coach for Women's Ekiden Team in Japan?

Race Report, Rhody 5K, USATF-NE Championship 2009

Part of me wanted to treat Rhody 5K like a “check mark” in the USATF-NE Grand Prix series… just 4 days after unfathomable 5K PR at Hollis… I didn’t feel it would be right to ask too much of the Goon Gods.

Goons - HCM, Doc D, MG, Judge, Enforcer & special guest, Codfather (see photo) piled into the Goonmobile limo and headed to Rhode Island… I knew the Goon boys were going with serious race goals, including Spanky & Brewski who met us there. Brewski sported his Big Bold G and he and OCG are true, loyal Goons already… perfect.

Enforcer, OCG & I intended to warm up along the course while cheering for the men… but Goats are easily confused by left & right, so took the long way around the casino to the start.

Out of nowhere, striding in front of us was the stunning Smokin’ Ivy… her presence meant a complete women’s masters team… no way would I let down my Goons with a “check mark” race… Goon Gods have at me, I would be putting it on the line.

Getting serious, we stripped down to bras. Codfather came to the corral to check out tiny heinies… oh, I mean offer us water. I was uncomfortable by the first half mile and would mentally push through each mile separately… hitting the split button, but not looking at miles 2 & 3. The Goon boys were out on the course several places yelling to push us along. Onto the track and saw clock, I was well within what I had hoped to do. It was my first, ever “non-Hollis” 5K to take it into “6’s”… whatever Professor is doing, absolutely paying off.

Each of the Goon girls reported pleasure with their races… we jogged to find the Goon dudes for a cooldown to hear how their races went. Doctor Death ran the exact same time I had run four days prior!!

Their post-race food is highly regarded, but I wasn’t too hungry…. I tasted the chicken which was phenomenal… svelte Enforcer knows what to eat.

As 6th visit to Rhody, thought back to Rhody ’08 and the hugely positive changes in the past year … for our coach, trackmates & teammates… OCG has it right, it feels so good to be GOON.

MG race info
** 21:16 (6:51 pace)
** Goon Masters Women, 4th, USATF-NE 5K Championship

Special thanks to Official Goon Photographer, Scott Mason, for photos http://www.scottmasonphoto.com/

Rhody 5K, USATF-NE Championship

Rhody 5K photos by Scott Mason



My race report will be coming soon... Goons had a spectacular time in RI yesterday. Visit #6 to Rhody and a "non-Hollis" 5K PR for little Goatie. Scott Mason never fails to impress with his photos... we Goons love him!! See more of his photos here http://www.scottmasonphoto.com/


MG race info
** 6th Rhody, USATF-NE 5K Championship
** 21:16 (6:51 pace)
** Goon Masters Women, 4th, USATF-NE 5K Championship

Bad Goat

MG has been bad about keeping her blog updated... BUT, did write a race report... click link here to the Goon Squad Runners website for my race report

Bedford 12K, USATF-NE Championship

Back in early 2000, I decided to try USATF-NE Grand Prix racing, largely due to the Bedford 12k being located near home and an interesting race distance. Returning there Saturday for the 6th time, I found it better than ever.

We expect Grand Prix races to be top quality and this certainly was… Goons only found it lacking beer. The new high school facility and finishing on the track put the race over the top… as usual, the bagpipe start amuses me. Weather was superb and Dad even came to cheer…. yes!! Wait, it gets better.

As usual, the Goons had ridiculous amounts of fun before and after the race. Add in the GTD family including Glenn, Dan, Tina (“the Machina”) and Codfather joining warm-up / cool-down, plus seeing running friends from other clubs, Goats Dave Dunham and Lisa Doucett… seems like a day couldn’t get better.

During most of the race, I had Hanky Spanky in view, but couldn’t catch him… he was trying to catch unshakable Sonic Boom… who was trying to catch perfectly paced Doc… who was trying to catch possessed HCM. Silent Assassin flexed his muscles with a 6:04 pace and the stunning Smokin’ Ivy led the Goon women with 6:25 pace. Taz was just warming up for his 24K the next day. Miss Enforcer followed her plan given upcoming half next weekend.

What about Mountain Goat? Thank you, Professor Fernando… it was a PR for me! My pace averaged 8 seconds per mile faster than my previous best… done by my 5 year younger self. A PR must always be cherished, they don’t come every day… especially as we get older… and I just turned a year older 2 days before… making this day even better. Enforcer retierated the point with the birthday card she presented to me.

After grabbing some water and snacks, Doc, Silent Assassin, HCM & I were walking in the school hallway and USATF-NE director Steve Vaitones said “wait”, holding the list of USATF team finishes. Goons, recognizing we only had like 7 members racing, laughed until Steve’s finger pointed to the list showing Goon masters women won third place!!!! We were in disbelief, he was not kidding!!! I even contributed to the scoring!! Silent Assassin popped me a high five… HUGE day for Goons.

Goonmobile limo had to roll south, so Doc & I finished celebrating on Sunday, and we had lots to celebrate.

MG race info:
** 6th Bedford 12k, USATF-NE Championship
** fastest 12k (PR)
** time 54:10, 7:16 pace (avg 8 seconds per mile faster than previous best)

Track workout 5.12.09

Track partner, Steph Triage and I were back together again... enjoying the affinity that often seems to develop when runners have shared many workout miles. We agreed that we prefer our workouts on the track, where we can check our 200 splits and see the finish line... we agreed that Professor F's prescribed pace and volume felt ideal to our fitness level... we even nailed the progression properly, working together with a bit of innate communication. Thanks, Steph

Factoring in the perfect weather, amusing coaches, trackmate friends and endorphins... a flawless night "out"

How long ago? Where?

Seeing Betty & Rich Waldman at GTD track workouts reminded me of this photo... hey , no cheating... to play, don't look at the race bibs!

Mother's Day

In photos: Uncle Bill, Mom, Eric (bro), Wendy, Me

Set my alarm... out the door... 16 miles done by 9:40... needed to get done early for Mother's Day with Mom.

I think it was in the 1960's when my grampa Perkins bought the cottages on the ocean in Rye. My Mom and her brothers and sisters spent their summers there and then my generation visited through our childhoods. Wonderful memories. Explore for sea glass, watch the tide, hunt for periwinkles in the rocks, fall asleep listening to the waves. Yesterday, we traveled back to feeling like kids when got together to celebrate Mother's Day at the beach.

Nana died last week, so the beach was the appropriate choice for Mother's Day. Uncle Bill moved to Leadville, Colorado 30 years ago and I had not seen him in more than 25 years! My running is small beans compared to his running & athletic pursuits... i.e. Leadville 100 mile trail race... but, I figured that I share genes with him and seeing the benefits of his remarkable fitness affirms that I have been on the right path for 30 years with my running.

2004 USATF New England Ironrunners

You probably recognize a few faces, even though this photo is old. I'm in the front row... I think Paul McDermott is beside me. Dave Smith, Ken, Herb, Jason, Hillcheck, Will too... everyone just finished Cape Cod Marathon, the last race of the 2004 USATF New England Grand Prix Series... all becoming Ironrunners.

Of course, the challenge is getting UP from the floor after just completing the marathon... wonder how long we just sat there instead of trying to get vertical?

Track workout 5.05.09

Huge turnout despite the drizzle... as Professor Fernando said "the session was full of energy and tremendous support for each other... the concentration and focus were not on the conditions, but the execution of one lap at a time"

Adding to the support, elite GTD runners lined the fence cheering us on and Goon Psycho received his birthday spankings. My group included, Gina, back from her Qualifier at Boston... fellow Goon, Bambam... plus new John. Ahhh, endorphin filled feeling of accomplishment as I drove home.

Postcard above was a race promo from a 2004 photo... cool down after racing in the rain. Can anyone identify the dude wearing #22 ?

Track workout 4.28.09

For me, yesterday was about "family"... my biological family... and also my family of friends... Goons... GTD... MVS, etc. all taking care of me with their thoughts and prayers.

I couldn't help but smile with 15 Goons on the track, part of the 70, or more, other enthusiastic fans of Fernando's Going The Distance program... runners of various abilities, experiences and clubs, all coming together as a GTD family.

John Murphy and newest Goon "BamBam" made for a fabulous group and tenacious Mrs. T will be back soon. On a day which could have been challenging in many different ways, nothing made it easier than being surrounded by so much superlative "family."

Thank you

Thanks very much to everyone... you have been so kind with the passing of my grandmother (Nana) yesterday. All of your thoughts, prayers, concern for me has been extraordinary and I feel blessed to have such wonderful people surrounding me in my life. I am the luckiest.

A special "wove you", Chris (Doc D) you are the ultimate in caring, love & support.

New Goon - West Coast "Whacko"

Michael Bower : Whacko

Whacko's official Goon name comes less from his recent back-to-back marathons (Salazar nixed it, Whacko did it) or his 12 month 12 marathon schedule... rather, his name comes from his whacked out obsession to become part of Goon Squad Nation. Don't get me wrong, it worked... the bribery and chanting the Goon name assured us of Whacko's deep dedication to life of Goonism.

Our West Coast Goon, Whacko: http://12months12races.blogspot.com/2009/04/goons.html

Track workout 4.21.09

it felt like we died and went to heaven last night... friends we hadn't seen all winter... our own private, cushy track... warm-up by Coach Annie Starrett (official Goon name "Poopsy")... feeling like kids who don't have to come in from playing in the rain.

Trackmate, Steph Triage, did the whole workout despite nursing a naughty, knotty calf and between sets, checking in with Professor for clearance... we were joined by Goon-in-Training, Ray Sarcione... returning to the track with form still so smooth.

The workout objective was to enhance current strength, threshold/aerobic capacity and short transition to anaerobic development. We had a little of everything... and I just listen to Professor Fernando... just like a very fast girl, Jill Gaitenby Boaz, once told me to do.

Goon Squad Runners at Boston

Doctor Death... thug pirate

Doc Death achieved his goal of 2 Boston Qualifiers in 3 weeks... plus, Silent Assassin, Cosmo and Spanky had PR's!!!! Must have been the Professor's GTD and the powerful, big, bold "G" ?

Goon Squad Runners assaulted the course at Boston Marathon today:

Taz 2:54

Silent Assassin 2:56 (PR)

Cosmo 3:12 (PR)

Cougar 3:26

Doctor Death 3:33

Mad-Dog 3:36

Spanky 3:55 (PR)

Codfather (Don Chapelle) and Dave Smith

photo from GTD track workout 4.14.09

Codfather kept the Goon founders in tears laughing when driving to RI (Rhody 5k)... he's so off the wall. At track, Codfather is focused and intense... plus very fast. A few minutes later, cooling down, he can elicit a smile from me just using a glance or couple quick words.

See more about him here: http://www.brillianticesculpture.com/ and his First Night ice sculpture photos.

We even got Dave Smith in this photo too... as trackmate Bob Whirty correctly pointed out, it's nice to get a picture of Dave for a change, rather than the other way around.

Track workout 4.14.09

Fernando's runners have a tradition after the last track session of the season (i.e. winter, spring, etc)... get together at Bertucci's to celebrate! I must have been excited to get there, because there was little anyone could do to slow me down during the workout. Mrs. T, Ann K. and Sonic Boom all tried to keep me on pace... no luck... finally Hillcheck and Cougar wore me out and Sonic Boom was able to reign me in on the last set.

I was also trying out a brand new running bra, Moving Comfort cross-front in Goon green... it worked great!! But, since I was so excited about that, I uncontrollably flashed many trackmates.

Photo is Silent Assassin (Brian Reeves), Professor (Fernando Braz) and Tim Harris at Bertucci's. We love Fernando.

When & Where? MG & Goon in Training

Goon In Training, Ray Sarcione

Can anyone identify when & where this photo was taken?

(and don't immediately zoom in and look at the race bib)

Track workout 4.07.09

Mr. Triage thought he could run faster, like Mrs. Triage, if he wore her pants for the workout last night... similarly, I wore her gloves. Yup, we felt faster. But seriously, we're in awe of Mrs. T running her first ever 5k and winning! First woman, 6:41 pace!

There was also applause for Mr. Triage (plus some bowing down by Judge) for Sonic Boom and Mountain Goat who all picked up age division hardware at weekend races. Sure, we figured we were getting fit from Professor's GTD track sessions... well, guess we were right. Then promptly, no resting on laurels, we trotted off to execute the workout.

SEA 5k, Concord NH

Photo credit, Taz Photography, Inc.

How hard would I run for a glass beer mug? Look at my face... attention to form... no glance for Taz... all focus is on the finish line. At last year's race, Sarah Hardy and I both won great clear glass beer mugs... heavy weight... perfect for freezer... such a useful prize... we loved them! This year, I came back hoping I had it in me to earn another.

My race pace averaged 10 seconds per mile faster than last year and I felt every step of effort and discomfort a 5k brings... but, the hard work was rewarded. I scored my 2nd fastest 5k time and the glorious honor of another mug.

Here's a photo Taz got of the cool mug

7th woman, 3rd in age division (21:45, 7:03)

Sonic Boom, Mad-Dog & Glamour Hammer

THREE NEW GOON SQUAD RUNNERS!!

SONIC BOOM: LINDA JENNINGS

Like a sonic test pilot she is so cool, self-assured, fearless... she'll max the engines and make that machine perform... pushing the limits even when the wings are shaking and pieces are falling off... an awe inspiring national champion, she's the Goon Squad Runner breaking the sonic barrier

http://www.goonsquadrunners.com/bio_sonic.html

MAD-DOG: CHRIS RUSSELL

Witty, talented, nuts... and an accomplished runner... if it involves some sort of bizarre weather, death-defying terrain or anything else adventurous... he's in. Last weekend he ran Georgia ING Marathon, wrote "Mad-Dog" on his bib and made the crowds yell it, he drew blood and put his newbie into the med tent! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lb_Q2xJufiw&feature=email

http://www.goonsquadrunners.com/bio_russell.html

GLAMOUR HAMMER: MARSHA HOGAN

Even when training or racing, she looks great... her outfits match, her lipstick freshly applied, chiseled abs... watch out... next thing, she's hammering so gut wretchingly deep in a track session or race... well, yes, she's ready to toss her cookies.

The four Goon founders extend a deep, heartfelt welcome to our newest Goon teammates!!

Track workout 3.31.09

16 year old Sarah would have been quite pleased with me last night. While my 16 year old self considered herself a "runner," her best mile time was a full 30 seconds slower than what Professor Fernando had in our workout last night. Granted, I was intimidated thinking about the scary number all day yesterday... my Goon friends Mrs T and SB provided the push to get me through. Driven to execute, we even nailed the mile a little quick.

Not to knock 16 year old runner Sarah... because she certainly did not have a coach like Professor Fernando, nor her teammate friends, nor faith in the program the coach put together for her... little Sarah likely would be very, very impressed with her 42 year old self