2012: A Year In Review

I don't even know where to start with this one, it has been quite the year for this lil' ole barefoot runner from Winnipeg, Canada. I started off with some basic goals which included running 1,000 barefoot miles, finish a Half Marathon in under two hours and continue to push myself to further distances, I had wanted to run my first 50 miler (boy did I miss that target).

My biggest intention was to just go out and run, have some fun and hopefully help some other runners along the way. I quickly realized that I am not the fastest runner and will never compete for to many first place finishes. But that being said, my philosophy has become, start with a smile and finish with a smile, if I can do that they I have won.

Here is a quick recap of the year that was 2012:

January:

1. Polar Bare Run: A 650m dash around the Formal Gardens at Assiniboine Park in Winnipeg with a twist. The twist being this is the Polar Bare Run. My running attire for this one was a kilt, hat and gloves. Yes I barefooted it and I am Scottish so you can fill in the blanks. It was a great run until we turned the corner and hit the wind (-30ish with the WC). It was a little nipple-ly for sure. See link here, Polar Bare Run
2. I started my strength and core training with my personal trainer Carolyn. Basically she kicked my rear end into submission and made me all the more stronger for it. How I was going to need all of that later on in the year.

February:
This was where all the craziness started, and I can either blame my wife or thank her profusely, I am not sure which.

1. Registration for the Canadian Death Race: I almost fell out of my chair when Nicole asked me if I wanted to put together a relay team for the 2012 race. After I put my jaw back into place, I went into hyperdrive to find a couple of other crazy runners who would want to do this with us. Well I found one, my buddy Dan had wanted to run this as well for years but could not find anybody who was willing to run it. Well that was it, I registered us as a 3 person team and 'Up A Mountain With No Shoes' was born. You could not wipe the smile off of my face for a week. At least until I started trying to figure out how to train for this being flatlanders from Manitoba. See link here CDR Training and CDR 2012
2. The 120 Day Running Challenge: I started a challenge to run 120 straight days with logging at least a mile. This does not sound like much but it was really not easy to do, there are just some days when you just don't want to run. But that being said I started and I finished. 120 Day Challenge

March / April:

1. March and April were event free months, just CDR training and logging more daily miles. The real fun began in May.

May:

1. The Winnipeg Police Service Half Marathon: This was suppose to be my first sub 2:00 half mary, well it was and it wasn't. But I am ok with that see link WPS Half Mary
2. The Manitoba Trail 50km Ultra: This was the long overdue event from the previous year that unfortunately got cancelled due to all the flooding out at Spruce Woods. Dwayne Sandall put on a great event, and one that I will definitely be back to run again. See link here, Spruce Woods 
3. Med City Marathon: This was a great event, Nicole and I travelled to Rochester, MN to run this one. We met some great people, had a lot of fun. We got to run with some awesome barefoot runners including Christian (Maple Grove Barefoot Guy), Katey and Andrew. This was my first above 90 degree F race, it was so hot, I had to be careful not to burn my barefeet. No PB for this one, it was all about the fun.

June:

1.  CDR Training Camp: This was our first look at the CDR course. An absolute must for runners who seriously want to run The Death Race. Not only do you get to run or bike the entire course over the weekend, but you get to meet other runners who are also running and those that have run it before. Valuable experience to be tapped. Further to this the camp is ran by Dale Tuck the creator of the Death Race with the help of Tracey Garneau, expert advice for sure. Some great friendships were developed at this weekend. See the following links, CDR Day One ; CDR Day One Part Two and CDR Day 2 .

July:

1. Where's The Beach? Stead MB: A unique event with a 33km running trail race running the same course and time as a 33, 66 and 100km mountain bike event. Of course I ran the event, because my biking skills suck. It was a blast, and I am definitely looking at doing it again. See the following link, Stead, MB.

August:

1. The Canadian Death Race: All I can say is this was bloody awesome, Team Up A Mountain With No Shoes' finished the race, and we all did fantastic. Check it out at the following link: CDR, 2012.
2. Dirty Donkey 5km Obstacle Race: This was a blast, my local Hash House Harriers run group put together a team for this and we ran it hard and had a fun time completing it. Basically a local version of the Tough Mudder series put on by our Adventure Racer extraordinaire John Ford of the Swamp Donkey racing events. I had a blast doing this barefoot and without my glasses (if you know me I am virtually blind without my glasses), so my teammates had to call out all obstacles and other areas of concern to me so I could make it safely through. Somehow I did make it through just in time for the beer.

September:

1. Lost Soul 100 mile Ultra Marathon: This was my first attempt at a 100 miler in Lethbridge, nothing like picking a hard one first time out right. I ran this race with a good friend Scott Burton who 'convinced' me that I should give it a try by twisting my rubber arm. Anyway, I ended up DNF'ing it but I did complete 100km of the event so I was very happy with that. I am going back this fall if I get in to complete it. Let me say I am determined and my knee is not going to tell me no this time.
2. Swamp Donkey Adventure Race: The original event put on by John Ford out in the Whiteshell Provincial Park located in eastern Manitoba. This event includes a 10km plus canoe, 30ish km bike through trails and a good quantity of running (about 10km) all mixed together with orienteering. Our team consisted of 3 rookies (myself, Gail E and Peter S), who despite the weather and really not knowing what the heck we were doing finished in the Top 15 for the team event. We had a great time, and yes you will see us back out there again trying to improve on our time. Anybody who likes something a little different, this is a event worth checking out.

October:

1. Paramedic Fire Fighters Half Marathon: A race that in its first year of existence exceeded all expectations. First of all it sold out not once but twice, as there was such a response the race director, John T had to open up more spots and those quickly sold out as well. Due to this they had to redo the half marathon route to accommodate all the runners. This was a good event from start to finish (just need to make sure they have coffee next year), and I had a great time running with friends and whooping it up with the other runners and volunteers. I also was able to break the 2 hour time I was looking for, well not really just breaking it but shattering it with a 1:53:24 and that includes a good distance of gravel trail.
2. Following up the WPFS Half Marathon, I ran the Ted's Run For Literacy 10km the following day, where even with tired legs and slightly sore feet I was able to secure another PB with a 52:44. The race directors Mike, Aldo and the rest of the crew put on a great event and lots of money was raised for a great cause. I also got to run with my fellow BRS member Dutchie (Jack) as well, good times.
3. The Awesome Twosome: A 5 km with a twist, really it a 10 km race with two runners running a 5 km loop in opposite directions. My partner Gail E and I finished 12th in just under 50 minutes combined with me running another PB in the 5 km with a 23:40.
4. VP of Administration with the Barefoot Runners Society: Still not quite clear why I was chosen for this, but I was honored by them choosing me for this. I just hope that I can live up to their expectations.
5. 1,000 Barefoot Miles Ran: I surpassed the goal of 1,000 barefoot miles ran and finished the year off with 1,115 miles barefoot and 1,836 miles total.

November:

1. Selected as The North Face / Canadian Trail Running Ambassador for Manitoba/Sask: This was a great honour to receive as well, I am so looking forward to the upcoming year. See link here
2. 2012/2013 Winter Barefoot Running Challenge: Participating in this slightly crazy event that I have been involved with for the last three years. I have surpassed 200 km and have completed a 1.5 km run at -31 degrees Celsius. See link BRS Winter Challenge

December:

1. Canadian Running Magazine Online: I commenced writing a weekly blog for CRM on barefoot running and they are even paying me for it. This is the latest, Moon Joggers.

Basically it has been an exciting year and a lot of firsts, I have been involved in quite a few articles through out the year, either assisting with the article or the focus of the article. It has been a little over whelming at times but fun at the same time. I have also had the opportunity to write a guest post on a great blog called Daily Improvisations, that I am very proud of as well. As I said it has been a fun year.

I am really looking forward to all the adventures that will be taking place over the next year that is 2013, as I continue to grow and push the boundaries that little bit more.

The Winnipeg Police Service Half Marathon - Kick Ass Edition 2012

I have been a little lax at doing this write up but better a little late (ok a couple of weeks late) then never, it has taken me that long to figure out what to type, because honestly I was a little P.O'ed at the end result. No the race was great as always, a great little course, great volunteers, a very good cause, and how can you not support the hometown police force (insert plug for potential future traffic stop issue), a class act event all around. The RD, Nick Paulett puts on a great event every year, come hell or high water, or snow, sleet or what ever Mother Nature throws at us, last years event here.

This race was to be my coming out so to speak, it was suppose to be my sub 2:00 barefoot half marathon, I was feeling confident, strong and ready to totally destroy my previous personal best at this distance, it was going to wish it have given up the PB title long ago. Yes, I know this is a bit of a touchy subject for me, I thought I was going to get the elusive sub 2 hour run last year, and if you count the first half of the Bismark Marathon I ran last year, I would have it. But that is just not the way this guy's bare feet turn over, it had to be an official Half Mary, so I could get the official time, something to look back at and tell the grand kids, yes sirree, 'I ran that half marathon in under 2 hours in my bare feet cause back then I was so tough I didn't need shoes.' Hell, everybody needs a "I had to walk 13.1 miles to school when I was your age through snow and rain in nothing but a pair of rubber boots." story to tell the grand kids and that will be mine.

Anyway, I digress...........

It was a dark and stormy night........... no that's not right,

Let's try this again........

This was going to be a special event, a friend was running her first half marathon, I was going break the 2:00 hour mark, Nicole and Gail were going to run their longest run in a month, some of my Running Clinic peeps (Ramona and Sarah) were going to surprise themselves with a fantastic run and finish and some lucky female runners got a sneak peek under my kilt as the wind flipped it up while I was going over the train bridge, oh yeah it was also my last race as a 40 year old. All and all everybody got what they wanted and some got a bit more than they bargained for except for maybe one item (officially and no I not talking about the kilt).

There was a great turn out for the race, as per every year it sells out usually around the February or March area, now not everybody shows up but there was between 1900 and 2000 runners this year. The weather was perfect for this type of event, overcast with a light wind and about 10 degrees, great running conditions and primed for some PB's to fall for sure. We got the customary fly by, by the Canadian Forces Hercules, and it was timed out perfectly for the start of the race, also a sign of a good race director, attention to details.

A Canadian Forces Hercules does a fly by to signal the start of the race

As I noted above, a good friend was running her first half marathon, it was also her longest run ever, she had never gone over the 9 mile mark (and this was done on a treadmill), so this was going to be  an event to remember for her. Way to go Les.

Gail, Nicole and Leslie before the run posing in front of the WPS Chopper, Air Wolf bite my dust

As per my typical fashion, I started at the back of the pack which ensured me going out slower at the start so I can get my legs warmed up. Without the blood flowing freely through my legs and feet, I have a hard time maintaining a quicker pace. Basically I start slow and ramp up to my 8:00 to 9:00 min/mile pace so I can maintain it, if I start out at the quicker pace my legs just don't respond as well and my time suffers. Of course, I was getting a few looks and comments with my attire, I guess my blue City Park Runners Singlet was clashing with my red kilt and bare feet, I didn't think so but obviously with all the whispering and pointing going on that supposed fashion faux pa must of been it. I zigged and zagged through the slower runners, getting myself bottle necked a few times but was able to get clear by the time we reached the back half of the Formal Gardens and the exit from the park. I ran with Julio for a couple of minutes, said hi to some other runners that I knew and ran behind the 'Super Friends' prior to ramping up to my 8:45 comfortable pace and heading out onto Wellington Crescent. I was feeling very comfortable as I continued to pass other runners, answered questions like, "What ya wearing under that kilt?", "Holy crap how can you run without shoes?" and my favorite, "Where are you hiding your bagpipes?" Of course the answers flowed out to the tune of, "Regimental, baby, regimental", "Holy crap, how can you run in those shoes?" and "Only the wife will find that out, sorry"

I guess I was creating a bit of a stir out there on the course, not quite sure why, I was just running my race, and hoping that the running gods were on my side this time. Everything felt fantastic as I passed by another runner in a kilt (he was wearing shoes though), my feet were responding well, my breathing was good and steady, everything was just falling into place. I turned up towards the train bridge and across the Assiniboine River on the gravel path to some ooo's and ahhhs and Kim yelling 'Go Barefoot Bob', I guess this caused a bit of a reaction from the other spectators around her, I just waved, fist pumped and carried on. There was a Military Band playing the bagpipes and drums at this point and I start hooting and hollering that they rocked as I went by. I was in front of a group of women runners as I hit the train bridge and just as I got to the middle, a nice gust of wind took my kilt and lifted it above my waist. Well I am quite sure they got a good view of my bare buns of steel before I was able to corral it back down. If anybody was looking behind them who was in front of me at the time, they would of gotten a real sight for sore eyes. Had to slow down a bit going over the bridge to hold my kilt down, but once I was over it was off to the races again. Going through the neighbourhoods is always a lot of fun as people come out of their houses to cheer the runners on, this always brings a smile to my face. I got quite a few great comments through this area, especially from a older gentleman (must of been at least 70), who yelled out "Now that's the way to run, bare feet, that's the way i used to run." I gave him the thumbs up and sped up with a little more gitty up in my step than before.

As I worked my way onto Portage Avenue, getting closer to the half way point, I took a quick look at my Garmin, and I was still under a hour, 55:24 to be exact, my only thought was here comes my goal time, and that smile creeped across my face once again. I saw Karen and Vicki cheering everybody on along Portage and Vicki got this photo of me

About the half way point of the WPS Half Marathon, I was having a great time

I was making pretty good time and as we swerved back into the neighborhoods just south of Portage prior to heading over the Moray Bridge to Charleswood and I was feeling good, too good in fact. It was just going so well, that you knew something was going to happen to say hello, are you with me. Well it happened, just as I got over the Moray Bridge, my stomach started to cramp and my bowels (I know too much information, but I'm going to say it anyway so you get the whole experience) started to rumble. First is was a little bit, then the tremors turned into full blown volcanic explosions of gas. I had to stop running for fear that my bowels would just let go.... Luckily I didn't have to worry about messing up my shorts, because I wasn't wearing any. So I walked for a minute or two to get everything back under control, and when I was sure I had just that. I started running again in search of the elusive and recluse port-a-potty. Did you ever notice when you really need one, there is none to be found, I was hoping that there would be one stationed at the turn-a-round on Roblin, but of course there was not. I had to run fast and quick all the way back across the bridge and onto Portage and west to just past the Robins before I found one. To make matters worse, it was occupied, seriously of all the luck. So there I was, dancing around in my bare feet and a kilt like a Highland Dancer on crack, waiting for the nice runner to finish up before I could get in. While I was waiting, I had a great conversation with some of the volunteers about my running style and this helped take my mind off the 'Thing That Should Not Be Talked About', oh ok my EBS (Erupting Bowel Syndrome).

After perfecting some pirouettes, side leaps and chassa's (those would be ballet terms for the uncultured or those that do not have access to Google), the bathroom door opened up and I sprinted in before she could let go of the door with a quick thanks.

It was a 'lightening' experience as I finished up in there as quickly as possible. Damage included over 4 minutes of non-running or non-moving forward time plus my unwanted walk break earlier. How the hell was I going to make up over 5 minutes of unexpected delays and still make it in under 2 hours. Well, I figured I would have to pick up the pace and see what my legs had left in me. So I straightened my kilt, brushed the gravel off my feet and set out with a determination I don't remember having for quite a while. I took off down Portage to the turn off into Woodhaven and screamed by a couple of really surprised police officers who were directing traffic and cheering on the runners. I must of looked quite interesting running towards them with a scowl on my face and dressed in a kilt. I smiled quickly said thanks for coming out and made the tight turn into Woodhaven. I will be blunt, the streets of Woodhaven suck, the asphalt is all broken up, there are more uneven surfaces and the roads don't look like they are ever cleaned or swept. Basically a runners potential nightmare for sprained ankles or twisted knees, but to run barefoot through here is so much fun but dangerous. You have to be on top of your game and be able to change direction at a moments notice to avoid a crumbling piece of asphalt. So as I sprinted through the mine field affectionately called Woodhaven Blvd leading to Assiniboine Avenue where my hasher friend Chilly is waiting with his ever present Beer Stop. Well let me say, I felt like a quick chug of beer would give me that extra bit of umph to get the rest of the race done, so when I saw Chilly in the distance my spirits picked up. Then I realized he didn't have his cooler out, I did not see any beer just Chilly standing there with a Beer Stine filled with 'TEA', what the hell is that...... wait is that a police officer just standing down from Chilly........ oh, this could be why there is no foamy nectar of the gods present today. Oh well, On On. So with a quick hello to Chilly, I turned left onto Assiniboine and tore up the road towards the last few miles of the race.

Me on the return trip up Portage Ave to the finish

I was still feeling good when we crossed under the Moray Bridge and through the curvy wall thingy that lead back to Pinewood Drive and then back onto Portage for the last sprint to the finish at Assiniboine Park. This was where I met up with Connie (who I had the pleasure of running with last year at the Ted's Run For Literacy which is taking place again this year see here) and her friend and for some reason her name is not coming to me. We went back and forth with them in the lead and then me passing them and then back the other way for most of the way down Portage. At this point I let them go with a quick 'Don't let the barefoot runner beat you now' comment. They both had picked up their pace and I was wavering a bit, not a lot but enough. I did have enough to kick it into another gear once I got to the foot bridge that crossed to the park and made the last turn and .10 miles to the finish line. I am sure I looked pretty determined as I crossed the line. I looked at my Garmin and it read 1:58:36, woo hoo I did it. But wait, I needed to check the official time when they print it off and set it up at the Duck Pond. So now that my race was over, I waited for Nicole to come across the finish line and hopefully get a good picture. But as luck would have it, I missed her somehow in the throngs of runners and spectators so the picture was not to be. But Nicole had a great time at just over 2:11:23 just a few seconds off her personal best, Gail ran it in 2:10:51 and Leslie who was running her first half marathon finished in a quick 2:52:00, not bad for someone who could barely run a year ago.

But getting back to my time, it was not posted at the Duck Pond in the results when I checked later, could not figure that out but assumed there had been a problem with my timing chip or something. Oh well, I guess I would have to wait for the website time to see what I ended up with. Well I found out later that night and I was not to impressed, the final official results had me listed at 2:00:54, all I could think was WTF. My Garmin had me at just over 1:58 and they had me listed at over 2 minutes more. The only thing I could assume is that the time they gave me was the time I finished at when I crossed the line. That would make sense because it was about 2 minutes before I got to the start line by starting at the back. Son-of-a-bitch, so close to that elusive sub 2:00 official time, I guess I will have to give it another go in the fall at the WFPS Half Marathon.

Once again, another great event by the WPS organizers, hats off to them and looking forward to next year.

On On.

Journey of 1,000 Barefoot Miles - Week Ending May 1st, 2011

Nicole and I prior to the WPS 2011 Half Marathon at City Park Runners

All I can say it was an experience. (Photo credits: Cheryl/CPR)

I decided that I would be including the mileage from Sunday, May 1st in this weeks count because it was Race Day for me, and my mileage was a little limited last week due to tapering and a nagging boo boo that my hip was experiencing. But enough whining (for that I will probably pay for dearly tomorrow night at the weekly Hash Run), here is my week in numbers and commentary.

Sunday April 24

Barefoot: 0.00

Vibrams: 0.00
Total: 0.00

This was Easter turkey fest, the only running I did was to the dinner table for more turkey and pumpkin pie (I was barefoot, I wonder if that counts).

Monday April 25
Barefoot: 9.43 miles
Vibrams: 0.00 miles

Total: 9.43 miles

Once again this seems to be my Monday routine, a run at lunch and a HHH run in the evening. A quick breakdown is as follows:

6.5 miles at lunch at a moderate pace, just trying to ensure I get some mileage on my taper week to keep my legs loose. Was really hard keeping the pace down, but I have been fighting a muscle inflammation by my hip (not that muscle get your mind out of the gutter) so I was really trying to keep the speed down, and hope it heals up by Sunday (a little foreshadowing). As always it was a interesting run, lots of weird looks, a lot of finger pointing, you know the usual.

The HHH run was a little more interesting, DDC was hosting from her docile and she organized a great little Trivial Pursuit Hash. Since one of our group was leaving for Denmark (you will be missed BM) and this was to be her last hash with us, DDC decided Danish Trivial Pursuit questions were in order. Not to be outdone, one of our elder statesman decided to crash the party literally, sending one runner screaming away from the sight of blood and in search of a EMT, DDC is married to one. This also resulted in the calling of 911 by a concerned neighbor (thanks alot for that, glad there are some people out there that still care), and the arriving of a ambulance and 2 of Winnipeg's finest paramedics. So after a short break to ensure that TM was ok and an encouraging On On from him as he headed back, the rest of us were off to finish the trail that we started. Once it was all said and done it was another 2.93 miles to the daily total, and some more stories to relived over and over again, I am sure.

Wednesday April 27

Barefoot: 2.57 miles
Vibrams: 0.00 miles
Total: 2.57 miles

This was video shoot day with Shaw Cable, over lunch I did some running on camera, and a very interesting and informative interview (at least I hope I didn't sound too much like an idiot) with Jessica and John. Of course, this drew a little bit of interest and curiosity from some of the locals that were passing by. They are expecting it to be ready for airing this upcoming week, and will also run it before the Manitoba Marathon (which I plan to run of course). Hopefully they got my good side (I'm not sure which side that is, but hopefully they got it!), in the over an hour of footage and 2 hours of overall time for the shoot. I am super excited to see how it turns out (I am sure my form was not good because I was having a hard time keeping my adrenaline in check), and once I got my copy from them I will download it onto the blog. Thanks again Jessica and John for all your hard work keeping me in line, and the good questions that you presented to me.

Thursday April 28

Barefoot: 4.33 miles

Vibrams: 0.00 miles

Total: 4.33 miles

This was just a quick run around the neighborhood to keep me loose. Nothing exciting, just tried to keep the pace slow and even. Could not even say if any comments were made, I was in my own little world thinking about the weekend. The one piece of bad news (or could of been good news) that I got that day was that the 50 km Ultra that was scheduled for May 14th was being postponed until August 20th due to the park venue being closed to flooding. This I think would become to be a blessing in disguise once Sunday came around.

Friday and Saturday (April 29/30)

Barefoot: 0.00 miles

Vibrams: 0.00 miles
Total: 0.00 miles

Once again this was a taper week, so I was trying to take it easy to rest up and be ready for Sunday and my first barefoot race of 2011. Little did I know Mother Nature wanted to play a little trick on us. As everybody knows being the weatherperson (need to be politically correct you know) is the best job in the world, you even get paid when you are wrong, which seems to be quite often. So when the weather forecast called for a crappy Saturday and Sunday, I was not to concerned, because there was a good chance it was wrong. Unfortunately, this time the forecast was right, the temperature went from 22 degrees on Friday to -4 on Sunday with a -13 degree windchill, it rained then snowed and the wind was down right nasty. We were even warned that the race might be cancelled Saturday night if freezing rain fell over night.

Sunday May 1st (WPS Half Marathon)

Barefoot: 0.00 miles
Vibrams: 13.1 miles
Total: 13.1 miles

I figured I would start this off with a picture, as they say a picture says a 1,000 words, well I would tend to agree.

The start of the 2011 WPS Half Marathon May 1st

This was a run for the books, the weather was unbelievable, and yet there was 2000 plus runners, numerous volunteers and other hearty individuals that came out to cheer us on. This is what Winnipeg spirit is all about in a nut shell, the race could of been cancelled, the runners could of not showed up, the volunteers could of packed it up before it even started. But no, Winnipeggers are a robust and proud bunch, when we take on a challenge, we see it thru to the end. This run was for a great charity. "Cops for Cancer", and nothing was going to keep us from showing our support, not sleet, nor snow, nor rain, nor wind (I feel like a postal worker). Anyway it was a great day for a run, unfortunately not a barefoot run, but at least we were running. Now don't get me wrong, I was disappointed that I could not go barefoot (it being International Barefoot Running Day and all), but it would not damper my spirit to much. With the snow on the ground, and the wet conditions it would be the Vibrams for me, because there is nothing worse than a cold and wet run for a barefoot runner, your feet will freeze instantly, and I've had enough frost bite this winter.

It was not the greatest run for me, no personal best, and I didn't come out unscathed, my hip had been bothering me for the last week or so, and with the cold today, it was acting up from the get go. I struggled thru the run, trying to keep up with my wife (who bested her PB by a whole 10 minutes, wooohoo!!), until something in my hip area popped at about mile 12. This forced me to stop and walk for a couple blocks until the muscle relaxed and shifted enough for me to shuffle run into the finish. But at least I finished, I am stubborn, and pig headed sometimes but I was not going to let my hip keep me from finishing this run. I would of crawled thru the slush if I had too, and I was almost thinking I was going to, as my hip was screaming and complaining the rest of the way. But as I said I finished and that was enough of that. It was a trip to the Pan AM clinic in the pm to make sure I did no real damage.

But first kudos to the Race Director, Nick P, his numerous selfless volunteers, the great officers, cadets, EMT's and military personal who braved the cold and nasty conditions to ensure this race went off without a hitch. Great job everybody, this is why this event is so great every year and I intend to run it every year for as long as I am able.

Regarding the Pan AM clinic trip and my cranky hip, it appears that I aggravated one of the muscles that runs by the hip bone, which caused some inflammation. So I am not allowed to run for a week, to give it time to heal properly. Hmmm, I guess it will be some barefoot walking for me to get some miles this week.

I will leave you with some more pics from the WPS run today, to hopefully inspire you as well as to show the heart of the Winnipeg spirit.

A very inspirational runner who does not let his blindness stop him from achieving his goals. Congrats to a great run and finish.

Off to the races, Mike Booth (2) leading the pack out.

The half way point and the two lead runners

Erick from City Park Runners waving as he sprints by the mid point

Who is that masked man?
(All photo credits to Cheryl of CPR)

Week Total
Barefoot: 16.33 miles

Vibrams: 13.1 miles

Total: 29.43 miles

Year To Date:

Barefoot: 73.49 miles

Vibrams: 34.93 miles

Total: 108.42 miles

On On

Journey of 1,000 Barefoot Miles - Week Ending April 23, 2011

Well this has been an exciting week for me, not only have I had the good fortune to run almost everyday (just missed Tuesday) this week. I have had the chance to run with some great friends, surprise myself a little bit with some good time intervals and experience some new running routes to boot.

On top of all this, I have had some other great happenings as well, and to create some unnecessary suspense, bum-bum-pada, I will make you wait until later to find out what exactly that was. Believe me its exciting, at least I am excited, and a little nervous as well. Anyway, a quote from one of my favourite bands, "On With The Show", here is how my week has broken down.

Sunday, April 17th, 2011

Barefoot: 5.88 miles

Vibrams: 4.92 miles

Total: 10.80 miles

This was an interesting run, the weather was cool, off and on gusting wind, and I was really not sure how my feet were going to react. Started out with the Vibrams until my feet warmed up, not sure why, but I had a gut feeling this was the way to go. Started out fast, really fast for me, the first mile was a 8:49 pace, I had to force myself to slow down I felt so good, but I knew I was trying for at least 10 miles, so I didn't want to burn myself out. It was hard to slow down, I had to focus really hard, and I kept looking down at my Garmin, to try to regulate my pace. If I could keep that pace for 13.1 miles, that would be under a 1:56 half marathon, I just remembered telling myself. Then reality set in, I'm just not ready for that yet. Anyway I was able to get my pace down to a modest 9:28 min/mile over the next couple of intervals, I was very happy to maintain that pace.

I decided I would run in the Vibrams till I got to Assiniboine Park, then once I crossed the foot bridge and reached the duck pond I would shed the shoes. That would be not quite 5.0 miles with the Vibrams, then I would run the balance back barefoot utilizing a different route. Remember when I mentioned, I had a gut feeling that I should wear the Vibrams to start? Well I was glad I did, I rounded a corner of a building and ended up right in the middle of a big pile of freshly broken glass. There would of been no way to avoid it and I would of filleted my feet, without the Vibrams, I still had to pick some pieces out of my shoes once I crossed the area. Whoever said, listen to your gut, I owe you one.

I finished at the duck pond with a distance of 4.92 miles in under 45:00, not to bad. After a quick drink of water, the shoes came off and I started thru the park towards the Moray Bridge. Running gravelled asphalt roads and paths, chip and seal roads, concrete sidewalks and dirt paths barefoot is like a concoction of different senses for the feet, this is the best way I find to build up the layer of skin on the sole of your foot. But note, beginners should not start with the amount I do, I am a bit of a sadist, building up slowly is the way to go.

Finished the balance of the run up to Portage Ave and headed west towards home. Finished up with 10.80 miles in just under 1 hour 45 minutes for a average pace of 9:45. I cannot wait till all the winter gravel (small and pointy) gets cleaned up, my pace slowed accordingly while trying to avoid the majority of this with my bare feet. But overall, a good run none the less.

Monday, April 18, 2011

Barefoot: 5.35 miles

Vibrams: 2.10 miles

Total: 7.45 miles

Monday was a two run day, I completed a quick barefoot 5 mile plus route during lunch hour, concentrating on rougher terrain to help condition the feet. Ran by 3 construction sites and thru all the limestone and gravel that was spilled all over the roads from the dump trucks. Also did not avoid all the winter gravel on the sidewalks this time by plowing thru the majority of it the rest of the route. I have a 50km ultra marathon trail run in a couple of weeks and the intent is to complete it Au Natural, so this abuse is necessary so my feet are prepared. Needless to say my feet were seriously tender once I got back to the office.

The second run consisted of my HHH run, and since my feet were still a little tender, I did this in my Vibrams. I am finding that I need about a day, to have my feet rebound from a abusive run like I did at lunch. It was a good short run, perfect to loosen up my stiffening muscles, and of course there is beer at the end, what more could you ask for.

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Barefoot: 0.00

Vibrams: 0.00

Total: 0.00

Tuesday was a rest day for me, I had a very important appointment in the afternoon, and I figured my leg would be a little to sore to go for a run. My niece, who works out of Living Canvas Tattoo in Winnipeg, was scheduled to put a new piece of art on my lower right leg (barefoot theme of course).

The script reads, "I RUN" and as I finish my Barefoot Events I will be adding the Mileage to the Feet Starting With 13.1 Miles at the WPS Half Marathon next week.

I will say I have had a few tattoos done over the years (this was number 9), but the top 2 bare feet and the script hurt like a son-of-a-gun being right on that muscle. My muscle was doing involuntary convulsions while Candace was inking, it was kind of interesting.

The second part of my day was a trip to City Park Runners, Nicole has been complaining that I have been stealing all her running jackets, so she felt it was time I got my own. I had seen this great jacket that City Park has that I really liked that also advertised the store that I have become so fond of. So by the end of the trip I was up a tattoo and a very cool jacket, that I will be proud to wear. Thanks honey, for all your support and I love the jacket.

Front View

Back View

Wednesday April 20, 2011
Barefoot: 6.76 miles
Vibrams: 0.00 miles
Total: 6.76 miles

This was another run at lunch, decided to take a different route, further into the heart of Transcona (insert erie sound effects here). Headed down a major route, before encountering a big accident which made me turn around and head back and devise a new route. I didn't think, the emergency crews would appreciate me running by the overturned truck that was partially blocking the sidewalk. I could imagine the expressions on their faces as this barefooted runner sprints past them as they clean up the mess. I do hope everybody was ok, I did see some ambulances scream by earlier, but I know they are good hands. Our cities front line emergency workers (all our Firefighters, Police Officers and EMT's) are fantastic and should be applauded and thanked for the great job that they do on a day to day basis.

Once I turned around and headed back I veered into the residential area of Transcona to get some additional mileage in, I might of spooked a couple of senior citizens, but I also got a lot of waves and a couple of "Wow, that is impressive" and one "Don't step on anything I wouldn't", that one make me chuckle. On the way back, I knew it was bound to happen sometime I got stopped by a train (it being Transcona and all). Very interesting feeling to be standing there with bare feet with all the vehicles waiting for a train to clear the road. All in all a great run, with a average pace of a 9:25 min/mile.

Thursday April 21, 2011
Barefoot: 6.25 miles
Vibrams: 0.00 miles
Total: 6.25 miles

Thursday night was my run with City Park Runners, always a good time, lots of great conservation and of course a good run as well. This was suppose to be a easy 10km run, of course that would usually mean about a 10:00 min/mile pace, and considering the conditions, I was ok with that. It was very wet, and this would be officially my first completely wet run of the season. Running barefoot on wet asphalt and concrete poses it own unique challenges, because if your form is not perfect, this will cause friction thru rubbing that you do not want. Also with the wetness, this will also soften up your skin layer that little bit allowing the blisters to be created easier. One other issue with wet asphalt and darkening skies is it is harder to pick up the rocks and gravel that you want to avoid. Not impossible, but one or two usually slip through. Anyway, in short I ended up with a couple of blisters by the end of the run, one on each foot (a matching pair). The one thing that amazes me is that blisters now are nothing, I just drain them, add some antibiotic cream, and they are gone the next day, like they weren't there at all.

Friday, April 22, 2011 (Good Friday)
Barefoot: 6.01 miles
Vibrams: 0.00 miles
Total: 6.01 miles

I want to start off this day report with a big congratulations to Nicole and Gail who left very early Friday morning for a small run from Westwood in Winnipeg to Oak Hammock Marsh. This small accomplishment consisted of just under 30.0 miles, Nicole was using her Vibrams and Gail was using a pair of running shoes that would of been considered new in 1985 and have travelled some serious miles. I am proud of you both for setting this goal and accomplishing it with flying colours, and no worse for the wear. The 50km trail ultra on May 14th will be no issue for either of you at all. A big Woohoo goes out to the both of you.

Friday's run was alot of fun for a couple of reasons. First of all, I got to go out with a very close friend, Gail E. (another Gail), and for the first time the both of us were able to beat another good friend's time by a whole minute. Now, there is the point that he just had major dental surgery and this was his first real run in a week, but I'm going to gloat anyway. Also we had a great time in my books, I believe running with Gail pushes the both of us to go just that little bit faster and harder. I am going to miss not having her to run with at the half marathon next week, to help spur me on. Anyway it was a great run as I said, we ran thru the Wolseley area, then over the train bridge to Wellington Crescent back towards the Miss, back into Wolseley prior to heading back. Even with my slightly tender feet from the night before, we had a great run and time of under 57 minutes for 6 miles. Thanks again Gail, we must make a habit of this, because I had a blast.

Week Totals
Barefoot: 30.25 miles
Vibrams:7.02 miles
Total: 37.27 miles

Year To Date
Barefoot: 57.16 miles
Vibrams: 21.83 miles
Total: 78.99 miles

I am a little lower in mileage that I would of preferred but I have some big races coming up in the next couple of weeks, so I do not want to go crazy with mileage and either hurt myself or burn myself out. But once summer hits, my mileage will be increasing as my feet get stronger again.

Oh yes, I almost forgot about the exciting news. Our running group was contacted by Shaw Cable last week about doing a piece on 'Barefoot Running' and my '1,000 mile challenge'. I was honoured and humbled that anyone would be interested in this, and with some thought and a lot of encouragement from friends, I have decided to go ahead and 'run with it' so to speak. So next Wednesday, they will be coming out to do the interview and film shoot to introduce Winnipeg to the Crazy Guy Who Runs With No Shoes! Wish me luck, I will probably need it.

Until next week,

On On.