I’ve been running the NY Road Runner’s club races in order to qualify for the 2010 NYC Marathon. Since my last post, I ran the Japan Day 4 miler, Chase Corporate Challenge 3.5miles, and NYRR Dash 10K. This coming Sunday, I’ll be running the Father’s Day Race Against Prostate Cancer 5 miler. These races have been great, as it forces me to get up early on weekends and do something productive and fun. I am not in the best shape of my life, but I am on the right track.
Waking up early is difficult, but I am always glad to be out in Central Park warming up for the runs while taking in the nice weather.
My time has been improving, and I’ve been feeling better both out on the RRC races and on the basketball courts. I am not sucking wind as much any more. I am averaging about 9 min miles on longer runs, and 8:30 for the 5Ks. My legs feel pretty good throughout the race, but the limiting factor still seem to be my lungs. I know that it’ll get better as I run more, so I just need to keep up with my runs. On average, I am running about twice a week, and my goal is to run 3 times a week.
Here are some pictures from the Japan Day run:
My recovering Achilles is getting stronger. I wouldn’t say that it’s 100 % as it feels “different” than my other Achilles. I don’t feel any pain or have any other issues, but it does get a little stiff in the mornings, and I need to warm up before doing any sort of exercise. I’d say that it’s at about 95%. I am not disappointed that it doesn’t feel 100%, as others who are further along in their recovery mentioned that they do see gradual improvements even after 2-3 years.
My Achilles hasn’t held me back from basketball or running, so I am more than happy with my progress.
The surgery scar is still somewhat unsightly, but I am fine with that. I just look at it as a badge of honor, and it reminds me of the trying times from a year ago. Here are some recent pictures of my Achilles:
Let’s see, what else is going on? I’ve switched jobs, and I am enjoying the work. There is always some stress involved in starting a new job as I need to learn the different ways of doing things, new projects, and getting to know the people in the new environment. Running and playing basketball have been keeping me motivated, focused, and optimistic.
I don’t think about my recovering Achilles as much as I used to. (maybe just in the mornings) Reflecting on my injury, even though it was just a year and some months ago, it’s a distant memory now. Happy healing everyone!
