Track and Field Blogs - David Flaugher

If youre like me (and unfortunately many of you are), you probably like many of the shows on the Discovery Channel. One of the shows that you may have seen is "Future Weapons". Its a pretty cool show hosted by a guy named Richard Machowicz. "Mack" is a former Navy SEAL and by all accounts a pretty tough dude. He is also the author of a book called "Unleashing the Warrior Within". When Richard was training for becoming a Navy SEAL he went at it full blast. He knew that one of the tests would involve extreme cold in water.… more »

Tonight I installed Picasa on my laptop. After the program installs it looks for all the pic's on the machine then makes them into catalogues. Man, I have some old photos. This is one of a girl you all know very well. It was taken at a club XC meet at Tom Sawyer. I think she would have been 10 at the time. I have several more that I will try to poat later. (there are even some of Olivia surprise surprise). more »

Thats the description of the last couple of days. Starting with bloodied. After Tuesdays run my right big toe swoll up like a giant cherry. Throbbed all night and kept me awake. The next morning its off to the podiatrist where it was time to lop off a good chunk of the toenail to relieve the infection and pain. (that parts not really THAT bad). It hurt for awhile but blah blah blah. While having my toenail amputated my phone goes bad. Completely broken and beyond repair. Off to Sprint where all of the idiocy in the entire world is… more »

Thats right meets. The first being the State HS Meet on that beautiful day at the Horse Park. It was beatiful to watch anyway. With weather like that it was great to see so many of you eager to go. Thats the absolute best approach to bad weather. Saying "Bring It!", "let go do this right now". Thats what I saw time and time again. The kids who we deal with on a regular basis showed tremendous grit and understanding of the nature of the sport. By that I mean its really about competing against the other runners. Not a… more »

Back from Gotham. It was an incredible experience. So get something to drink and settle in while I tell you the story. I passed through the seven layers of the candy cane forest, through the sea of twirly, swirly gumdrops, and then I walked through the Lincoln Tunnel. No wait, that’s not the right story. Many of you sent me cards, email and messages of encouragement. They all meant a lot, and believe me you actually think of them while running. It helps strengthen your resolve. Many of you also asked what I wanted to run (time). To nearly all… more »

Okay, one of you Derby City running geeks tell me where this quote is from. "Thing is that in track we are painfully and constantly are of how we stack up, not just with our contemporaries but historically as well. In that regard its different even from other sports. A basketball player can go out and have a great day and tell himself he's the greatest rebounding forward to ever hit the hardwood, but he'll never really be troubled by the actual truth, will he? ?In track you see it's all there in black and white. Lots of people can't… more »

Some people refer to the last really long training run (in a marathon training cycle) as the Champage Run. You know, pop the cork on the bubbly to celebrate the last 20 miler. Today was a Champagne Run. But since I never really liked champagne anyway, it turned out to be a Chocolate Milk Run. I dont really feel like celebrating anyway. I dont feel any real sense of accomplishment in completing anotherr training run. But it was a nice (if not a little too hot) day and there is something to be said for that! I dont look forward… more »

I really do. I have 2 and they are awesome. Big, small doesnt matter. Think they are just great. Dog owners on the other hand are often idiots. Take today for example. Im cruisin through Seneca right by the tennis courts with my homies. Rinning down the path enjoying a pretty day. In the other direction walk a lady and a rat on a leash. The rat apparently thought that my little group was interesting and decided that dashing between my legs while I was running would be great fun. I stumble, curse (sorry for those of you who heard… more »

... that someday we will be able to put away our fears and prejudices and just laugh at people.” more »

And probably couldnt do again if I tried. This mornings long run was a nice day. Cool start, good company :) and something Ive never done before. From miles 10-21, I ran every mile faster than the one before. Some by less than one second, but faster. I had no idea it was going on at the time. I was trying on the last couple of miles to get to tempo pace. But beyond that it pure happenstance. I am not sure that its completely accurate. We ran a section of paved trail along Beargrass Creek where my Garmin had… more »

This afternoon I left the office a little early and went to Bernheim. Its amazing that the leaves are already starting to change. If you have never run there take my advice and give it a try. Especially in the fall as the trees start to change. It has to be one of the prettiest places in our region. On a weekday afternoon there is hardly another sole in sight. The solitude of the run is beautiful in itself. Your footfalls and breathing can be all that you will hear for long periods of time. At one point I was… more »

That was a hard three days. Set up began on Thursday with course striping and other markings. Then Friday it was time to put up the ropes before the evening races. There really is a tremendous amount to be done before such a big race. I always ask myself, " is it worth it?". With Andy out of Trinity I have no direct attachment to the team. So it is a very valid question. After its all over and I have had time for my feet to stop hurting, I always come back to yest. Its definitely worth it. It… more »

I couldnt come to practice yesterday. We were having meatloaf. more »

Haul, run. Whatever. On a really long run today it came to me. The importance of patience. When you are working on the early miles of a long training run, its easy to get rolling too hard. You may just want it over with, and start trying to get there just a little quicker. You usually pay the price. This also applies to many of you younger runners, on a larger scale. Many of you have entered HS or even College and are in new programs. Most of you are now out of the base phase of training and are… more »

Sounds like some of you have heard about my incident at Iroquois Park today. Before I give you the details, I am physically fine. Like many days, I decided to go for a run at lunch. My office is nearest to Iroq, so I headed for the amphiteatre parking lot. I was running along the asphalt sidewalk that is parallel with New Cut Rd. I had passed the basketball courts and an older couple that were walking in the opposite direction. As I came over one of the little hills I saw a guy walking towards me on the same… more »

The day of the 13th St. Edward Meet started with rain. Not something that any of us were hoping for, but you work with what you are dealt. The one good thing about the rain was that it slighthtly softened the ground, making it just a little easier to get stakes in the ground. The rain continued much of the day, but in the end it was the usual result. THe best MS meet in our area, hands down. John Haley has pointed out to me several times recently how our little club has now begun to span generations. There… more »

Should I, or shouldnt I ? more »

Yup. Boom, Outta Here. more »

Today I was at therapy again, but this time with a new PT. After working on me she said "you weren't going to run today were you?" When I told her that I was planning on running she said "you guys aren't normal" (I guess normal people dont lock their keys in the car and then show up for a meeting with no shirt on, but thats another story). Of course "you guys" meant runners. I guess you can take that two ways. 1) I'm weird. (go ahead and post your comments now)2) Yeah, so what? Ill take the "Yeah,… more »

I went to my second physical therapy apppointment yesterday. (Do you see a theme here?) I don't think there is anyone in the medical field that I have not asked about making my foot stop hurting. The latest thing is called ASTYM . Not sure what that means other than ouch. The basic idea is to hurt it worse so that your body gets the message and starts healing quicker. Picture a very hard piec? of plastic. Now picture me prone on a table (flab spilling over the sides). Got it? Ok now see this little guy taking this piece… more »

OK, so Im not supposed to run (as directed by a DR), but I did anyway. Please dont do as I do. But I ran tonight and it wasnt nearly as bad as last night. I still have the MRI coming up. But my new thought is "go until I cant go". Ran the Tempo run with AHS tonight and it wasnt all that bad, It only hurt half the time (when my right foot hit the ground). But it felt pretty good to see Olivia run so well. (over 2 minutes off her previous best Tempo Run). Maybe that… more »

Last Thursday evening was the annual Trinity HS Alumni Run. This years version was again a 3K, pitting the Varsity XC Team against the Alumni. It was also the first year that Andy and I were on the same team. Before the race starts there are the usual team cheers. The Varsity doing the usual Hoo-Hah, and the Alumni doing something that is impossible to describe. I cant help but wonder what this would look like to someone from a foreign country. The smiles and felllowship would stand out, I think. Could the specatators see the bond that this group… more »

First of all I would like to apoligize to Olivia (and her family) for the damage caused to her toe by my dog Penny. Sunday after practice, Olivia stopped by to pick up a copy of the Camp Video. As many of you know, she had a pretty good blister on her foot. Something about it bothered Penny (a two year old Black Lab) and she bit her on the foot. As bad luck would have it, most of the damage occured on the toe that was already hurt. After the doctors cleaned the wound and stitched it up, they… more »

CAMP
Thank you.
Thank you to all of the parents for all of your hard work (and gas).
Thank you God for giving us the wonderful weather and the beautiful surrounding..
But the biggest thanks goes to the campers.

Thank you for being an incredible group. You are:
Hard working.
Kind.
Patient.
Obedient.
FUN LOVING.

A few of my memories are:
Wake Up Music.
Watching the Brat Pack dance their way out of the car after every drive.
Hannah Rucker eating ice… more »

No not Pikachu. Today in my continuing quest to make my heel stop hurting I took another step (and yes it hurt). Acupuncture. Thats right. Sticking sterilized needles in variuos body parts to help my foot. Makes perfect sense right? So my right heel hurts. Naturally you would stick the pins in my left palm and the top of my head. And then you would wave magic tuning forks over me, right? I mean there has to be some great science in there. The tuning forks would have to fix it. Not so much. So yes, I am a skeptic.… more »

How did they manage to pack so many bugs into one secluded area? I hope I didnt get malaria! (hey that rhymes). Thank the Lord above for tree lifter extaorinaire - Barry Haworth. We would probably still be out there if not for the physical prowess of the Professor. But there were Popsicles! more »

As my regular readers know, I like to run at Bernheim Forest. What many of you may not know is that normally means a road run. Sometimes a gravel path run, but mostly just on the asphalt roads inside the park. The trails at Bernheim while beautiful are very challenging. Technical footing and some very steep sections are what you expect. Today, Ashley, Andy, Catie ,Olivia and myself ran a few miles of trails that I had never run on. Our first quarter mile was up a pretty darn big hill. A hill that looked (and felt) like it would… more »

About 6 weeks ago I went to the podiatrist to get my heel pain diagnosed. My Dr. (who is also a club sponsor) confirmed what I thought, Plantar Fascitis. What followed was a painful probing of my heel with a foot long needle. OK maybe it wasnt a foot long, but it hurt. Bad enough that I swore I wouldnt do it again. Fast forward to today when my heel pain took be back in. This time ASKING for another heel shot. I ASKED for it. What an idiot. During the probing of my heel with a 24" needle I… more »

I have missed you so much. While you were gone I... well I just felt like part of me was missing. You disappeared so quickly. No notice. Not an "I am going to run up to the store" or "I might be late tonight". Nothing. Just gone. As Jim Rome would say "Boom, outa' here". But absence makes the heart grow fonder. I thought of so many clever things to write. I would giggle to myself at my witty internal banter. Make mental notes to inform my public of the light that I could shed on cultural issues. But like… more »

I want to first point out how fun the "O" meet at Cherokee was for those who could make it. Relaxing and different.

I also want to point out that I know I would have won had it not been for the team that I was on. Read the map, drag my team, read the map, drag my team L:) Even with that I think we could have won had Emily Bean not made me twist my ankle !

OK, the truth is that if Olivia had not pointed out one of my map… more »

Over the last couple of days, Andy and I went down to the XC Camp area to scout some running trails. Its easy to forget some things when you are not in the mountains on a regular basis.

It is really beuatiful.

It is REALLY hilly.

The cicadas are in one of the seventeen year cycles (broods) and they sound like a constant hum. Really cool. Funny thing is we never saw any of them.

Its hot in the trails. Not much of any breeze makes it through… more »

The 4x8 is my favorite of the relay events. In fact it could be my favorite track event. There is something special about the commitment required to your teammates in a race that is as grueling as that. Runners in the 8 don't excel by accident. It is a mix of desire, genetics and not being quite right in the head.
To Olivia, Cat, E and Hannah: You truly earned your state championship. Blood, sweat and tears. Great job girls.
more »

that Sundays weather was too wet.

Just ZacK, Connor and me sloppin in the cold cold mud (and rain). more »

Have you ever been to the PT and had them zap the area that hurts with elictricity. They call it Electro-Stimulation, or E Stim. It always seems to make me feel better. Maybe its because its such an impressive machine with all those electodes and stuff.

But now, thanks to the fine people at RONCO (thats a joke), I can zap myself in the comfort of my own home. Thats right, I bought my own zapper. Complete with its own 9 volt battery and electrodes. So right now I am zapping my foot. Dont be jealous! more »

Came together pretty good at CSAA's. EVERYBODY ran well. Pretty cool when you think about how many top finishes came from you guys and girls.
Too many to list, but the distance events (400 and up) were dominated by DCAC kids. All four mile events, and most of the 400's and most of the 800's. (not to mention St. Edward goind 1,2,3 in the 8). Special props to E for winning the shortest race and the longest race. Sort of like winning the 100 and then the Marathon :).

Then some of the DCAC boys win… more »

"Your sure this will help?" I said. "Yeah, it should help. The pain in your heel has steadily gotten worse. You need to do something" replied the podiatrist. "But everyone I know that has had a cortizone shot in their heel says its really painful. Maybe worse then the injury".
"Nonsense" said the liar (I mean Dr) "Its not that bad and in a couple of days you may thank me".

"OK, lets just do the foot thats the worst. Then we can talk about the other one" I said.

"Are you allergic… more »

Back to 40° rains.
Canada thinks our weather sucks. more »

But it was too hot. jk :)

Everyone thought it was nice too, Sawyer was packed. Net on stick ball catchers, picnicers, dogs (not on leashes as usual). Packed.

But it was a pleasant run with ZacK and Charlie. I think Ed Zachary was there also. more »

stop raining. more »

At least the Zebras seem to think that hes a saint. Put him on the bench with 4 fouls for a large chunk of the second half (which is where he rightfully should have been) and it may have had a different outcome. Not to mention playing UNC at HOME. I dont think it is reasonable for a team to never have to play a neutral court game prior to the Final 4. If all of this sounds like sour grapes, it probably is. I think it sucks.

The other St. of the weekend was a much… more »

Beginning last Friday morning I have done almost nothing but drive and watch basketball.

Good Friday, Emily, Andy and myself drove to Birmingham for the first round NCAA game between UL and Boise State. Nice little 5 hour drive that took 8 hours because of spring break traffic. But the Cards played well and the place was rockin' with fans of the Ville. On the way out of the stadium spontaneous chants of C-A-R-D-S would start amongst the exiting fans.

After an all to short sleep, and a shortish run it was… more »

I've always had a fondness for the Rodes 10K. I like the course and its seems like I always get to see a ton of people that I know at the start. I think because everyone is concentrated in such as small area near the hotel. I can only recall a few years that this race has enjoyed nice weather. This years was about as good as it gets. I have run it in snow, rain and fog. But never have I seen a warm day (that I remember anyway).

One thing that the Ville is missing… more »

60 degrees and sunshine. more »

In my last post I was aksing for the rain to go away.

However, I was not hoping for a foot of snow! more »

and please dont come again another day. (at least not for awhile).

Sunday morning myself and some friends (Craig, Jeff, Adrienne, Aspurger, Andy) went to Bernheim for a long run. The forecast was for a beautiful day of 64° with mostly sunny skies. So we start running and the next thing you know its drizzling. Then raining. Then pouring. Pouring a COLD rain. Good run gone bad.

Tuesday at Sawyer, same thing. Only colder and actual thunder and lightning. The streams were over my shoes. Tuesday afternoon (to finish the run). Rain again.… more »

... well I guess most people have. I always want people to "own it" when they do. So here it is. Nothing hurt. I felt fine. I was not caught in a crowd or anything like that. I dont have an answer, although I have some suspicions. Really was great to see all of the orange singlets out there representin' DCAC. It was definitely the highlight of my day. (any of you guys who want a road uniform for races let me know and I will hook you up) [Casey, Zack, JP, TC etc...]

Please post your… more »

Thank you for your recent proposal regarding a scheduled date for football between the University of Louisville and the THE University of Kentucky.

As you know we are unable to grant this request because the date conflicts with our preparation for a previously scheduled game with the intramural team of the Ky Womens Correctional Institute. Coach Brooks feels that his full attention should be given to this up and coming football power.

We feel it only fair to bring you up to date on other possible schedule problems. Please see the list below… more »

Yesterday we took a little trip over to Lessington for the UK HS Indoor Meet. I must say that it was a VERY well done meet. On time, well run. First class. Cant say that I cared for all of the UK honks that were sporting their best blue suits, but it was their place. The races went well and it was great to see our locals do so well. It was also exciting to see the out of state talent that came in for the events.

As many of you know, I am not a big… more »

After an exhausting week of voting and tabulating the winner of the DCAC Photo Contest is:
JIMMY PAUL

Jimmy deserves all the credit for making that award winning expression. JP will be presented his award at Thursdays practice.

Trenton Fryman battled brilliantly with his scary contribution of "Devil Eyes".

Great job to all those who played. Even Olivia, who had three contributions and ZERO votes. Keep making those faces Olivia. You are very photogenTic. more »

Its been an exciting contest, and after 3 solid days we have a tie. Thats right all even at six. So now we must have a face off.

We've narrowed it down to 2. JP or Dash (Trenton). Cast your vote for your favorite photo. more »

Please vote for your favorite picture. One vote per customer. You may also suggest a caption for the photo you are voting for.
There is a bigger version in my photos. more »

It was a long weekend, with much of it spent in the car traveling back and forth between Bloomington and the Ville (go cards). I am not complaining mind you.

After two straight days of indoor I can say with any doubt at all that wearing a Speed Suit does not make you fast. In fact it can make you look quite silly. Especially if you are a girl and your belly hangs out like your training diet is mostly composed of Bud Light. Not a good look for anyone.

Then there were the… more »

I have been looking forward to a particular day for awhile now.

It really is the beginning of the College Sports new year. The beginning of College Basketball. "But Dave" you say, "College Basketball started on October 15th". Au contrair mon frere. College hoops did not start on time this season. Because............................................................

DICKIE V WAS NOT CALLING GAMES BABY!

Thats right fans, hes back. Just in time for the first clash of the Dukies and the Blue Snobs huhuhuh (said like ole' one eye). Its a big time game BABY, and… more »

Dateline Maysville Kentucky.

I am not going to take any shots at Mason County. Mostly because I am jealous. Yeah they have a rather short indoor track. But, they have and indoor track. (and we in the Ville dont). And all things being equal its really pretty nice.

So there we were proudly representin' DCAC. It was a nice job by everyone. I paricularly liked the look on Michaela Hunter's face when she lined up next to Cat. Priceless.

But the highlight of the day was the redhead kid that slipped… more »

I have to say that I really enjoyed the movie/documentary. I have never seen anything like that regarding the sport. A running movie complete with its own musical score. Pretty amazing.

I have admired Deena Kastor for a long time. (I met her in Indy several years ago and thought she was just a really nice person). She really is the queen of American distance. To watch her struggle with an injury and still stay focused on winning was amazing. I remember the whole story from Chicago that year, but did not know that she had turned… more »

After freezing my foot and ankle into submission I decided that it was time to test it out. What better way to do that then to set out on an 8 mile run in 18º weather. I dont think it was one my brighter ideas, and it would probably have brought harsh criticism from me should it have been one of you. But... there ya go. And like anyone would say - "it wasnt really that bad!". Pretty nice run culminating with Hot Chocolate served the way I like it with too high a powder to water ratio. You know,… more »

Tonight as you guys were finishing up your workout, I was starting a run with some of my friends. We were running the Dr. course bacwards. John W, Doug and myself had kind of broke away by the time we hit Grinstead Dr which is about 2 miles into the run. As we crossed Stiltz onto Frankfort we step up on the sidewalk. Probably 10' onto the sidewalk I stepped on a chunk of concrete. I never saw it since it was the same color as the sidewalk. I was down before I knew what had happened. My right ankle… more »

Thats Trenton's new nickname. Especially after today. Yeah it was about 34 degrees, and yes it had rained most of the day. I can see why that would lead to a few accidental splashes. But EVERY puddle seems excessive. Especially when you think that there is no way Trenton could muster little more than a ripple in the water with both feet. But Splash'n Dash can put out a tsunami, and his target of the day was yours truly. Good job SnD. You were the bigger man today.

On to bigger subjects. I am truly disappointed that… more »

Thursday was a club practice that only the truly goofy showed up to run. Mssr's Zack, Johnnie, Casey and Charlie. (well you see what I mean). Ducks thought it was too wet to be outside. But not the demented! On we went, straight into the eye of the storm. After a mile or so the rain came. (It be too late to alter course now, mateys!) As some of you know I sometimes like to jump into a puddle and displace the water onto other people. Splash them, if you will. But I met me match. Casey and Johnnie will… more »

So we got a Wii for Xmas. Has any else gotten injured on one of the dastardly machines? Last night I boxed and played tennis. My arms (guns to ConnOr) are sore. Really sore. I am not really sure what that means other than it is embarrasing. I think that I will have to box more. Has anyone seen Zack?

Tomorrow is the big game. Of course everyone knows where my allegiance lies. It is always difficult to go into coRUPPt arena. If anyone want to take a "run" at my team, do so now. Consider this… more »

I cant help but weigh in on this. more »

What a cold start. I ran in pretty hard snow showers and it was really windy.

Here are my New Years wishes for you. (I should have made these X-Mas wishes but I did not think of it at the time).

Connor - A years supply of HGH.
Zack - Some H's to replace those nasty K's.
JP - Subscription to Movie Director Magazine.
E- Storage cards for her new CAMERA!
Olivia - Ugg! I cant think of anything. Ugg.
Hannah - New Excuse list.
Shelby - The… more »

Today I am reviewing JP's review of the movie "National Treasure Book of Secrets.

JP's review is for the most part very accurate, a bit "glowing" in nature. I must diagree with his claim that the plot was understandable. Sorry JP, your wrong on that one. :)

Next I will review Connor's new running clothing. more »

No, its not another movie review (although I thought that was great movie). Its a description of my run today. ☻♥♦♣♠

Andy, Craig R.,Ally R. and myself went to Bernheim for a cold windy sometimes snowy run. It is amazingly beautiful there in the winter. So went up the Fire Tower road, into the wind. Loads of fun. Andy attacked the hill, and it got mad and attacked me. The cafe was closed so nothing hot to drink when done. Remember that if you go in the winter Did I mention the wind. It was so windy… more »

Today I decided to give Hollywood another chance, as well as about $60 of my money.

We went to see National Treasure "Book of Secrets". I liked the first one a lot and figured I could not go wrong. I will say that this one does not suck. Its not great either, but overall it is entertaining. As long as you dont worry about little things like the "plot". I will give it ♥♥♥ out of ♥♥♥♥♥.

I am only willing to give the concession stand ♥♥'s though as the popcorn was sub-standard.… more »

Please take this the right way. Your restaurant on the Outer Loop sucks. Since you have so many of them maybe its hard to keep track. I have been to several of your pizzarie's and this particular restaurant achieves a whole new level of suckiness. If I were you I would demand that my name be taken off the sign.

You are probably not aware that our team had another mishap in a restaurant recently. Italian restaurants and DCAC dont seem to mix well. One place wouldnt let us in, and the other wouldnt let us out.… more »

Today I will review the movie "I AM LEGEND".

Let me begin with, SUCKS. Okay that may be a little harsh. But it is not whats advertised. The movie is a combination of Terminator and Night of the Living Dead. Not the last man on earth at all. I was mislead, cheated and basically I want my money back. And who kills dogs in movies? I dont want to see the dog get killed! Thats just wrong. C'mon Will you're better than that.

On the plus side the popcorn was good. There were also… more »

Thursday night with the "G's" (geezers). Actually there are a lot of non geezers in the group including a 21 year old new guy that can roll.

So we ran the Christmas light run. That is what we used to call the course that is now called something else. The new name involves a physician. (Can anyone guess). The good folks of Crescent Hill and Cherokee Gardens have done a stellar job this season with the lights. It was a beautiful run. It really puts you in the spirit of the season too, when people nearly hit… more »

Today I ran with my friends John (Whisman, hence the Wizz Man) and Gary. John is in good shape, and I paid the price for that. We were at my tempo pace before the first half mile. Then it got faster. But he is a lot of fun to run with, even if it did hurt.

I think it is very ironic that the on again off again UL basketball player is named Caracter. It turns out that he is quiet a Character. I hope Terrance Farley wakes up today and is a lot better than before… more »

It seems like all of my Sunday runs lately have been in the rain.

Yesterday Andy and I went to Bernheim for a long run. Its a different kind of beautiful down there this time of year. Very stark landscape with nearly all of the leaves down. Also very silent, with almost no other people. I like it a lot.

So we are about an hour into a 1.5 hour run when it starts raining. Not only does it rain, but it storms. Complete with lightning and thunder. But we made it to the… more »

Since most of you guys are in your forced hiatus (that means your parents wont let you run right now Hannah), I have taken the opportunity to run with my G's at Seneca. So I show up at the usual time (5:30) and the ring leader (Flat Top Fred) shows up. But nobody else. Seems they are all injured. Sometimes that happens when everyday is a race. Just sayin'.

So then tonight I thought I would run the Glenmary GC. I kind of like it because at this time of year it is entirely in the dark… more »

Dear Diary,
Here is a not so brief summary of the trip to Va. Beach.
Packed a whole lot of junk into the car, but left out the things that are really needed.
Drove like crazy while listening to UL football, talking on the phone and trying to avoid Va State Troopers.
Took wrong turn near Charlottesville and realized something was wrong when I saw the Whitehouse jk.
Drove even more like crazy to get back on the right road. Stop Sleep get up and drive.
Walk, the course, walk the course, walk the… more »

Dear Diary,

Today I went to the track. As the callers say "first time, long time". As I recall the last time I ran at AHS track my calf hurt. So today I wore my brand new super bad black compression sleeves. I looked great. I looked fast. But I ran like usual. Not real fast. What a rip off.

more »

Dear Diary,

It was a very busy day with the team today. First we went to Target and bought gifts for disadvantaged kids. It was really nice to see our kids act in such a thoughtful and generous manner. Even though Connor did suggest a Rubik's cube for a 2 year old.

Then we went to the park and had a few games. I like the human knot quite a bit. That Jesse is really flexible. I still think that my team won. Samantha cannot be trusted. The Hog Call game was worth it,… more »

Dear Diary,

I think that Hannah and her Sisters (get it?) have gotten me sick too. So, I missed the Thanksgiving Day races. I know she will do anything to keep me away from practice, but really this is ridiculous.

I hear that several people ran today, and some (Kyndel) even won a turkey!

I also changed my name at the urging of Steve Prefontaine. He and I are close personal friends you know. Pre (he insists that I call him that) was PREviously someone else, but at the urging… more »

Dear Diary,
Well, I just cant seem to make it to practice on time. Its always something. Today I had to pick up the NTN girls uniforms at 4:30. That sucks because I didnt get to run either. It was like a library without Hannah or Casey there. I dont think I like the silence. more »

Dear Diary,
Yep, its Monday. It was not good news to hear that David Padgett is out for the year. Then the squirell twins were, well they were squirelly. Then Hannah's does its pop thing during practice. (I hope she is OK.) I cant MNF on the big TV because of Prancing with the Stars. Its Monday. more »

Dear Diary,

Well, the meet is in the books. It went very well, and I had the chance to watch it all from the lead cart. Thats something I dont normally get to do and it was interesting watching the race tactics (or lack of sometimes). I wrote words on the ground to help the runners with course directions. Unfortunately Hannah and Olivia kept stopping to read them. I think Hannah took notes at one of the spots.

Connor on the other hand said "I'll just make 'em follow me".

It… more »

Dear Diary,

Today I saw the first snow flakes of the season. It probably kept Beaner away from practice. I also mowed that grass at Vettiner for the course(s). The guys who work there looked at me like I was operating an alien spacecraft. One of them told me I was mowing his field. I just said "if you have a problem, you just look me up later. My names Connor Sheryak and I aint skeered of you".

Todays run was fairly cold. Even more so when you are just standing there yelling times… more »

Dear Diary,
Today I had a spelling test err no wait that wasnt me. Conman did tell the best joke that I have heard in quiet a while. Ran on trails against my better judgement. Not too bad though. Did not get a chance to step on Conner and that was disappointing. more »

Dear Diary,

Todays workout involved 1K's in the grass. The trick was you had to start a new one every ?Minutes (do the math Olivia). But, we were able to make a fire and have smores after the run.

In other news, polling has begun on a new name for moi. more »

Dear Diary,

Today I saw a beautiful thing. I saw a team come into a race with real focus on a goal. AHS began thinking about what they could accomplish one year ago. Today after one year they took home the Team Trophy in the KHSAA State XC Championship. They got it in the most honest of methods, by working hard from Track through Nov 10th.

Since I know many on the team pretty well, I think this is an honest assesment. They are wonderful kids who you would be proud to have as… more »

errrr.... right.
Dear Diary, do you know why Cinderella couldnt play football? Cause she had pumpkin for a coach!
Anyhoo, today Hannah demonstrated an incredible feat of strength by dragging a tree branch around for half of her run. I know, it sounds like some kind of punishment but she did it one her own. Go figure. In another startling devolopment, Kasey Janes realized that he had run at Sawyer before.

I also discovered today that Nextel's technical support consists of a dozen chimpanzees. Sorry chimps, I did not mean to insult you… more »

Dear Diary,
Today at practice it rained. Then it rained, and finally it started raining harder. It was terrible, really terrible. Not the running in the rain part, but listenng to Con's, Caties and Sam's jokes. It makes me shiver.
more »

Dear Diary,
There we were heading for Sawyer (Catie and myself) when the tire indicator came on. Less than one minute and we had a complete flat tire. There was a big screw right in the middle of the tire. I know in my heart of hearts that Hannah or Olivia or Caterina did it. The extremes they will go to, to get practice cancelled. But I showed 'em. Andy brought me anyway. Then we ran leisurely for an hour. more »

Dear Diary,
Today there were a lot of stomach aches. I am thinking of filling the water cooler with Pepto instead of Gatorade. But, some new and old faces showed up. It was good to see the Brutchsers, and nice to meet Charlie.

The Hobbit ran rampant over the 5K course. I think it actually caught on fire. Hannah fell over a soccer ball that was kicked out in front of her. I told the people playing soccer that I had not idea who she was. Kylie fell too. I felt sorry for her :) more »

Dear Diary,
Today a bunch of new kids came to DCAC practice. They were all great kids and good runners. The problem begins when I have to call them by name. I think they all start with M. Mara errrrrr I dont know.... just run. On the plus side Olivia brought a watch and showed up on time. Well. she did bring a watch. ERB won the award for best costume as Cookie Monster. The other kids did not know about the contest and seem to think that he dresses that way all the time. It could be that… more »

Dear Diary,
Today started early (5am) when I had to race direct the girls scouts 5K. Although I did get to see a guy destroy 15. Pretty impressive.

Then the coup de gras. The St. Edward MS Girls team came in 2nd in State. I am not sure if they know how big of an accomplishment that is. They have improved tremendously and are now running times that would be pretty good HS times. We even went to Steak and Puke errrr, Shake. Boys ran terrific too. Kyle hammering a new PR on a hard course.… more »

Dear Diary,
It was pretty cold today. So cold in fact that JP and I spent about half the evening trying to start a fire. We failed miserably. I think we burned all of the paper towels in the rest rooms and all of the papaer products in our cars. I dont know, I never was a Boy Scout. I am bringing gasoline and a blowtorch to next practice.
more »

Dear Diary,
Today it was pouring rain again. So we ran indoors at St. Edwards Gym. 80 laps around the basketball floor. Thats right 80 laps. Olivia and Hannah got dizzy. Oh wait, the running in circles did not have anything to do with that. It may have been a little boring, but it was a lot like a Nascar race, I think. Go fast, turn left (or sometimes go fast then right) more »

Dear Diary,
Today the team had a day off, so I had the pleasure of running with the Trinity team in Indiana. Or maybe I should say watching them run from a distance. An ever growing distance. Although it wasnt really that bad, I could see most of them at the finish. We ran to the George Rogers Clark house and had time to take a look around. Pretty cool. They did not have anything that showed George's 5k times and that was disappointing. (Olivia and Hannah, GRC was an American Explorer, not a Ford Explorer). more »

Dear Diary,

Today I went to an XC meet in Versailles (rest of the world spelling). It was a darn good meet. I really enjoyed the artist previously known as Condor in his native environment. Flapping his wings up the hill It was beautiful. TC, JP and KC were right there in order. Diary its a good thing the girls can run. Because spelliing... well its just a good thing they can run. more »

Dear Diary,

I dont know how Hannah does it. But I know she does. Today we were running part of a workout, getting ready to do the hard part. We had just turned the corner into a parking lot. This is the point when Hannah usually comes up with something like "David, I have excessive ear wax. I cant run anymore.". So I am expecting something anytime. But today she surpassed even my expectations when (somehow or another) she made the civil defense (Tornado)siren start screaming. This of course immediately ended practice and everyone went home. BUT… more »

Dear Diary,
Today Hannah, Beaner, Catie, Thomas and Cat were the coaches. Overall they did a good job and there game was excellent. They really took a lot of time and thought setting that up. It did concern me that we were supposed to run 30 minutes and they did not have a watch. I also think they should be more open to suggestion. I mean I suggested and suggested, but they just ignored me. Maybe I was not LOUD enough. more »

Daar Diary,
Today I turned my ankle during a mile repeat. I stepped on a walnut that was out in a field no where near a tree. I blame a kid. I just have not picked one yet. I am leaning towards Jake Schneider.
more »

Dear Diary,

Today I learned the sound that Unicorns make. It sounded painful and I hope that the Unicorns are OK.

Hannah and I traded places (coach/runner). She is a very inconsiderate coach. I was just trying to help her when I told het that: my stomach hurt, the sun was in my eyes, I had a lot of homework and that we needed to do a roundup. She can be a real grouch. more »

Dear Diary,
Today we ran at Bernheim. Me and the Weebles. Except these Weebles wobble and they DO fall down. Hard. A lot. more »

Today I went to the Horsey Park and watched a bunch of races. I even got to run the course with the Zanimal. Those LexCather's put on a good meet. Michael Blum and the Allards ran well. New pr's I think. But I kept wondering... did they run this morning like they were supposed to? more »

Today I was pleased to discover that reading is part of the curriculum at St Edward. I believe that all of the fab five can finish a paragraph and that is good news. The bad news is that their short comings in mathematics have rubbed off on me. I was worried this could happen. Their actually have negative math skills, which result in a vacuum of knowledge thereby sucking the intelligence from other people. RATS!!! more »

Question: What has 10 ears but cant hear at all?
Answer: Kyle, Olivia, Hannah, Beaner and Caterina.
I also found out that they do not teach any math classes at St. Edward. That about SUMS it up. more »