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2014 or Bust
The 2013 ING NYC Marathon came and went. And needless to say, I was jealous. But then again my jealousy began the moment I entered the Marathon Health Expo at the Javitz Center earlier this week.
The NYRR organization welcomes all the participants to the Marathon Health Expo.
I should have ran in my first marathon today. What would have been three years in the making has to be put on hold until next year. The final chapter in my 100 pound weight loss is to run in the NYC Marathon. Unfortunately, two congenital hip conditions postponed those aspirations. Two years and two hip surgeries later I am healthy and ready to begin my journey.
I have come a long way to just stop and permanently end this dream. Truth be told the NYC Marathon has been my obsession since 2010. And no medical condition or any obstacle will come in my way. I have overcome a lot before undergoing two hip surgeries, so what is one more year…right? Patience is a virtue. And my body is a temple.
At the start of the new year I will begin my training. I am giving myself 10 months to prepare for the race. Through the grace of God and the support of my family and friends, this destiny I will share with them. My glory will be there glory.
I race not to finish first or last. I race because I am happy and able. I do not take one thing for granted.
With that said between now and next years NYC Marathon be prepared for blog entries about my training and some surprise entries.
By the way if you are wondering how I am sure about running in the 2014 NYC Marathon well let me give you a crash course on guaranteed acceptance:
- 9+1 — A member of the New York Road Runner’s (NYRR) organization must participate in 9 NYRR qualified events and volunteer in one event in one calendar year.
- Joining an NYRR sponsored charity.
- Entering the general lottery. Registration for the general application process will take place on December 2, 2013. Winners are generally notified late spring.
- Winning one of 44 spots in an NYRR contest. I entered the contest earlier this afternoon. 22 winners will be notified on November 5, 2013. And on November 22, 2013 another 22 winners will be notified.
I immediately crossed item #1 off my list. There is no way I am joining NYRR in 2014. The chances I win either #3 or #4 are slim. I would be surprised if I won either. My best bet is to join a charity. Ideally I would like to join a charity that supports our military.
My off season started after the Rock N Roll 10K last month. But that does not mean I am not working out.
My goal…my motivation. 2014 or Bust!
A Personal Best
More than 30 hours have passed since I participated in the MLB All Star 5K Run. And while I am sore all over, I feel great. After having hip surgery last December, I re-joined the competitive realm of running.
The MLB All Star 5K Run was a treat.
As I made my way to my assigned “heat”, I noticed the stage was filled with baseball greats and representatives from the New York Road Runners (NYRR) Club. Mascots from the baseball world greeted runners with high fives and photo opportunities. Sadly, I did not get the opportunity to get a photo opp with Mr. Met. Oh well there is always Citi Field.
Prior to the horn, a young girl was chosen to sing the National Anthem. The girl had a beautiful voice; however, she was nervous. She stumbled. Despite that she continued. As she continued to be nervous, all of us (runners), joined in the singing. We helped her through it. After she sang, “…And the home of the brave”, we all cheered her on. She did a great job. And that is one moment I will never forget.
Once John Franco blew the horn, we were underway. I crossed the start line and ran with the crowd. Getting out of the gate I felt great. After one mile I ran a surprising 7:55.
With one mile down I felt motivated to keep up the pace. Unfortunately, that was short lived. With humidity rising, my lungs began to tighten. I was short on breath. Nevertheless, I continued. My biggest mistake, similar to any of my previous races, I did too much too soon. I am in a race and not in a sprint. Hopefully, I will eventually pace myself as I train for the NYC Marathon in 2014.
Struggling and wanting to stop, I carried on. What motivated me to go on was the long road I took to get to the present. I did not have two hip surgeries to prematurely end this 5K. Then as I continued I began to observe the crowd. They were there to root for their runner. That motivated me to continue on.
After reaching the final mile I smiled and proceeded to the finish line. Funny when you hear people cheering that makes you want to finish on top. And once again as I saw the finish line up ahead, I gather whatever adrenaline I had left and crossed the finish line. I thanked the heavens for allowing me to not only run but to complete the race.
Unofficially I completed the race with a new personal best of 25:30. I was proud of the results…unofficially. I met up with my father and brother, both of whom have supported me from the very beginning. With sweat running down my face and my shirt drenched in my sweat I high fived both of them. And began to stretch. Now that was the way to celebrate. Stretching has been a key cog since my second surgery.
Later that day, I logged on to the NYRR website and found my official results. I officially finished the race with a time of 25:34. That’s right I set a new personal best. I beat my old personal best by 31 seconds, which was set last September at the Tunnel to Towers event.
Here are the results:
– Out of 4,754 runners, I finished 1,151st.
– Out of 2,434 men, I finished 876th.
– Between the ages of 30 and 34 a total of 500 men completed the race. I finished 207th.
Overall that was not too shabby. Thoughts?
Heading into the event I expected to complete the race between 26 and 28 minutes. To set a new personal best my first race back is a humbling and amazing accomplishment.
I am already looking forward to my next race. Damon Runyon 5K you have been put on notice. Unlike last year, I will complete the race.
For those wondering, I woke up sore from head to toe. But I still managed to get to the gym this morning and do some cardio. Afterwards, I stretched like never before. It was all fun.
I Am Ready
It has been close to ten months since I last ran competitively. That road has taken me from the highest of highs. However, I cannot say I have seen “the lowest of lows”.
Since I last ran the Rock N Roll : New York 10K in October, I had my second and final arthroscopic hip surgery. The recovery had some setbacks. But those setbacks were expected.
After my second surgery I began planning the races I wanted to participate in 2013. Three of the races I considered were three races I participated in 2012. My first 2012 race was the Damon Runyon 5K race at Yankee Stadium. Due to embarrassing circumstances, I did not complete the race. I did, however, receive my medal. The medal is nice but I have it hidden. I did not deserve it. After discovering why I did not complete the race, I promised myself to race the event in 2013. That race is scheduled for August 12. I will be there.
The second race I vowed to participate is the Tunnel to Towers 5K. This is by far a race that I am passionate about. I am running for our first responders and men and women serving our country. Many of whom do not return the same. By raising money I am helping their families. I am helping wounded veterans. I am doing my best to give back. This race is not about medals or recognition. It’s about giving back. And I am doing just that. This race will be penned onto my calendar each year. Rain or shine I will participate in this event.
If you want to help in this cause, donations could be made at the following link, http://www.t2trun.org//campaign/display/profile.do?campaignId=15986. I am on a mission to raise $1,000 by August 1. I am almost there. Can you help?
In October I am registered to once again participate in the Rock N Roll 10K at Prospect Park. This race is a race for me to enjoy. There is no back story to it. Similar to the Tunnel to Towers, this race will penned onto my calendar each year.
However, I am scheduled to race in my first 5K of the year tomorrow. In 2012, the New York Mets were awarded the All-Star Game. I am a big Mets fan. However, what made me excited about the All Star Game were the festivities leading up to the midsummer classic. One of the festivities is a 5K race benefiting a charity. This year the charity benefits Superstorm Sandy relief. As a proud New Jerseyan, my home state was decimated after Sandy. I helped out in every way possible last year. I am humbled and proud for the cause.
This race will also be my first competitive race since last October’s 10K in Prospect Park. Am I nervous? I am not as nervous as I am excited. Physically I feel great. While I am not at a 100%, my body is more than ready. I have been preparing for this since Dr. Bryan Kelly cleared me to return to the gym.
I cannot wait. My running gear is ready. I am about to buy some songs of iTunes for my iPod. Now where did I place my Garmin watch?
While I search for the watch, please wish me luck. It’s (almost) go time!
Stay tuned for my final results tomorrow.
Jorge
Returning to My Old Self
The last time I posted an entry I was two months removed from my second and final arthroscopic hip surgery. Since that last entry, a lot has happened in my recovery.
In February, I struggled. Setbacks was the norm. But I overcame those setbacks.
Since those setbacks I slowly returned to my old self.
On March 12, I saw Dr. Bryan Kelly for my three month post-op follow up. To no surprise they were content with my range of motion and quick recovery. The only difference this time around was the amount of atrophy I sustained in my left hip. Dr. Kelly acknowledged I need to build strength and muscle. It was also on that date where I was cleared to return to the gym and resume a limited running plan.
Life is good.
Since that date I have returned to the gym. With the exception of physical therapy, I ran once on my own. If you follow this blog you know how much running means to me. Just last week I signed up for a 5K sponsored by the company I work for. I am ready. But since the event is a week from this Wednesday, I will participate with caution. My body is not where I want it to be.
Hopefully July, I will have the stamina and strength I desire.
It is only April and already I am planning for three to five running events this year. I am excited.
To avoid injury I am actually learning new stretching techniques. My lower body is tight. And the last thing I need is an injury. I am using tools such as the foam roller, balance board and even a towel. Since the two surgeries I learned how vital stretching is for the success and overall health for an active individual.
I look forward to what my running future holds. After all, all I ask is to run in one marathon. Once I begin and end that 26.2 journey, I plan on retiring from long distant running. I just need to get through this year and next year. My goal is to run the NYC Marathon in 2014.
I am looking forward to this journey.
8 Weeks Ago
The last time I submitted an entry I was preparing to return to the office after recovering from my second hip surgery. That was about a month ago. One month later I physically feel great.
Being diagnosed with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) in the spring of 2011 has taught me a lot about my physical fitness and in a way about life.
Two surgeries later I have lot to look forward to. My hips have never felt this good in such a great period of time. Eight weeks ago I had my second hip surgery performed by Dr. Bryan T. Kelly.
The minute I woke up from my medically induced sleep I knew I would return to my old fitness levels in due time. Compared to my first surgery I recovered in a quicker pace. Now I am not saying I am ready to run. Would I like to run? Of course. Those who know me, know running is my drug.
But for now I am enjoying the freedom of being able to walk around without the assistance of crutches. Walking is something many of us take for granted. But being unable to walk can be a hindrance.
Eight weeks have gone. And slowly I am ready to return to the gym. I am basing my return off of last years surgery. I was cleared to return to the gym in March. Unlike last year though, I plan on mixing my routine. No longer will I focus my workout solely on cardio. I will do a hybrid of workouts ranging from cardio to swimming and yoga. This is something I look forward to.
Two weeks ago I met with Dr. Bryan T. Kelly for my six week follow up. I went in for the routine post-op x-rays and consultation. To my amazement he gave me one of the best compliments. After six weeks my range of motion was better than what any of us had expected. He joked, “I would love to clone you.” The thought about wanting more patients who quickly heal was a tremendous compliment from a surgeon who has done the same surgery on athletes and regular patients.
I credit my quick recovery to my workouts and the tremendous staff at STAR physical therapy. Jeremy Crowe deserves a lot of credit for getting me back to my feet.
My therapy has greatly improved my hips. Last year I did my therapy but at times took it for granted. In time I healed. But this time around, my mindset was on getting stronger and faster. In order to get there I need to stay focused on my physical therapy. Each visit to STAR I go with the mentality of doing better than the previous day.
And guess what…I do. I went from 10 seconds on the balance board to two minutes. I still can’t believe that. Balancing for two minutes is not easy. But focus is the key. And so is music. If you do not have your iPod, time will not be on your side. That’s just one of the many workouts I do at physical therapy. It feels great.
I do suffer from tightness but that’s why I stretch often at home and at work. If there was one thing I learned in the last eight weeks, it was the value of stretching. I not only stretch my hips but I also stretch my upper body and lower body. Apparently I am flexible. So I am going with it.
I am content with my recovery. But I could not have done it without the love and support of family and friends. If you are reading this I thank you. I would like to name each of you but I would need a lot more time. But you all know who you are. Whether you are my blood, my coworkers, high school friends, college friends or twitter friends. You know who you are. Gracias desde el fondo de mi corazon! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Eights have gone by. What do the next eight weeks have in store? Let’s wait and see.
Until next time.
Jorge
My Physical and Emotional Recovery
When I last entered an entry, I was a day away from my second arthroscopic hip surgery. I was nervous. But I knew what to expect.
The day of the surgery I was upbeat. I was energetic. I was vigilant.
Upon leaving the house I received wonderful messages from my loved ones. Truth be told I will forever be grateful for their love and support. Consequently, our bond would ultimately be put the test a few days after Christmas. It was something that shook the foundation of our family.
Before I discuss on my second hip surgery. I want to mention what happened two days after Christmas.
I had just returned from physical therapy. My mother, who was not feeling well, had told me she was going to the hospital with my brother. For a few days she suffered from numbness, headaches and disorientation. It scared us. After a few hours she was admitted for an overnight stay. What should have been an overnight visit turned into a five day stay.
And not being able to do a thing hurt me. At that point I was a week and a half removed from surgery. And now I am finding out my mother suffered “Transient Ischemic Attack” (TIA). TIA is often considered a “mini stroke”. The symptoms she endured could have progressed into a major stroke had she ignored the symptoms.
For five days she lied in a hospital bed. That Saturday, the whole family visited her at the hospital. My mother was connected to a heart monitor, an IV, and an oxygen tube. The strong woman that I know and love was now in a bed. She put on a brave face. Who wants to spend any time, let alone the holiday season, in the hospital?
Thankfully, by New Year’s Eve she was medically discharged. Her MRI, ECG, EKG and any other medical examination she went through came back without any problems. She was put on some medication. Of course she has to change her diet. She has to see a specialist in the coming weeks. But overall we are confident she will beat this.
My mother received a wake-up call. She knows it. My siblings know it. My fathers know it. And since her scare, she does not take a thing for granted. I know speak for my siblings when I say, “We are glad to have her around. We are glad to see her happy.” I will keep you posted on her upcoming visit to the specialist. We love you mom.
As for me…tomorrow I return to work. After a one month lay-off, I am eager and ready to return. This past weekend I have been up and around. I am able to get around without my crutches. But I think it would be best I use my crutch(es) to maintain my stability. In one month I suffered atrophy.
I am able to get around inside my home without a problem. But outside my home, my left hip is tight.
Compared to last year’s surgery I feel great.
After the surgery, I was in a haze. But I do remember talking to Dr. Kelly afterwards. It turned out I had a significant labrum tear, which required four anchors. An anchor is similar to stitches. The anchors stitch the labrum back onto the acetabulum. I had the same amount of anchors placed in my right hip last year. Interestingly, my left hip was not as discomforting as my right hip.
I will admit I had a little set back a week and a half ago. I strained my right hip flexor. Talk about doing too much in little time. The strain, while nothing serious, scared me. In the few days before seeing my physical therapist, I knew what to do.
When I saw Jeremy, my physical therapist, he diagnosed me with a strained hip flexor. He suggested I continue with my stretches. What he did next is exactly what I had hoped. He applied acupressure on my hip flexor. I knew what to expect. It hurt. But damn it felt good. In a few days, with the combination of stretching and ice, the acupressure healed my strained flexor.
One month ago I had surgery. My recovery has been a treat. How many people would say that their recovery has been a treat?
As I return to my life, I have to regain my physical fitness. It will not be easy, but I am ready.
I look forward to this new challenge.
This is a mission I will document. My road to the 2014 NYC Marathon has begun. I am so focused that I have already signed up for a 10K race in October. Of course I will do a lot once I am cleared to resume. I will prepare myself for my running season. Join me on this race.
It’s Time
Monday morning I will be at The Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City. Like last year, I will have my hip scoped for FemoroAcetabular Impingement (FAI) and a partially torn labrum. Last year I had my right hip scoped this year it will be the left side. Since starting the whole process in early 2011, I knew I was in good hands with Dr. Bryan Kelly.
Today being my last day walking without the use of crutches happened to be a great day. Despite not visiting the gym today, I spent a lot of time with my family. The bond I have with my family is what keeps me composed and focused, not just for the challenge I will face but in life. Good times was had. And a lot of laughing is the cure for any ailment. Trust me.
In the last few weeks I have taken my workouts to another level. I used the stair master on a frequent basis. The perspiration dripping off my face proved that I can still be active on a high level. I am proud to say that when I return to my active life, I will pick up where I left off. And whatever weight I gain between now and March/April will not affect me as much. I have been down this road before. And I refuse to regress into old patterns.
My motivation has allowed me to think about the future. Earlier this week I registered for the 2013 Rock N Roll – New York 10K in Brooklyn. Running has allowed me to break free and enjoy being healthy.
As I prepare for surgery I cannot help but think about the great times I had running. Between August and October I ran three races. Each race will hold a special place in my heart. In August I ran the Damon Runyon 5K at Yankee Stadium. That race was my first competitive race. But what made that race far more special and memorable was due to my gaffe. I ended up with a medal I did not deserve. I hit the finish line when I was supposed to go around the final course a second time. My bad.
In September, I redeemed myself when I ran the Tunnel to Towers 5K. I completed the race with a decent time. And above all I ran for those first responders who gave up their lives on 9-11. It was a treat and a complete honor.
This past October I ran my final race. The Rock N Roll 10K at Prospect Park was amazing. It was a cool October morning and I was excited to have participated in the event. The race was far more special as I did it for me. I know that sounds shallow but I wanted to prove to myself that I can stick to my goals. Sure enough I did. And in the process established a new personal record. I completed the race in 51 minutes. Not too bad if I say so myself. I literally shaved off 6 minutes from my own 10K race in Central Park.
I look forward to what will be in store for me come 2013. Stay tuned.
Emotionally, physically and spiritually I feel great. With that said I will enjoy these last hours with family.
Until next time. We’ll chat. Be safe and well. Tomorrow I will be on the road to recovery.
2012 Rock N Roll : New York 10K
In what turned out to be a bitter sweet morning, I started and completed my final race of the year. The Rock N Roll : New York 10K (RNR) was indeed my final race of the year but it was also my BEST race.
In the days leading up to the race I had one issue after another. Last week I sustained a minor injury that forced me to decrease my training. Last Sunday, I slipped hurrying down the escalator, while trying to catch my train. I landed on my butt and bruised the back of both knees. The injury was not too disconcerting but I acted cautious. Between Sunday and this morning’s race, I worked out two days. The back of my knees were sore and bruised. But the extra time away from the gym allowed me to rest the knees.
I woke up this morning with so much enthusiasm. At five this morning I got up out of bed, showered, dressed and stretched. While I am used to running a 10K on my own, the event was my first 10K and it was also my first race in cold conditions. The cold weather forced me to change my wardrobe. Instead of wearing running shorts, I wore sweat pants. I underestimated the wardrobe issue. Thus I live and learn.
My brother was kind enough to get up and drive me to Prospect Park in Brooklyn. In all of the races I participated I had a great support group. My biggest fans were the members of my family. Starting with my parents – they have provided me with all of the love and support. They have seen an overweight male with no athletic bone in his body, to a healthy male with a passion for running. Their love and support has been special. My siblings are the best. My older brother became my official photographer. His great photography in each race has been great. But most importantly, his decision to see me run will always stay in my heart. Luis you are a great man and a great brother. I couldn’t have done it without you. My brother and sister have always cheered me on even if they were unable to attend my races. They are great. I love them all. Thank you for the support.
My biggest fan, my father, was unable to see me race. I spoke with him yesterday and unfortunately he told me that he was unable to attend due to the flu. It hurt him to say that. But I really understood. His health was far more important than a race. On Facebook this morning, I dedicated my run to him. I know he wanted to be there. Dedicating the race to him was a no brainer. The medal I earned dad is half yours.
Preparing for the Rock N Roll 10K
My older brother, Luis, woke up early to drive me to Prospect Park. We left our residence in Jersey City around 6-ish. He was happy to drive me to the Park in Brooklyn and cheer me on. It’s the little things I that makes me happy.
Upon arriving in Brooklyn, our next step was finding parking. After a few minutes, finding a spot was not as bad as originally thought. We found a parking spot and began our way to the starting line. As the night sky made way for daybreak, the starting line was filling up with participants. Weeks before the event the organizers put participants in corrals (heats). Based off my submitted time, I was placed in the middle of the pack (Corral 6). Although RNR gave me an estimated completion time of one hour. After reading the estimated time, I had motivation to beat the time.
About 715 this morning, the organizers announced that each runner proceed to their assigned corral. I said good-bye to my brother and made my way to the corral. He wished me luck, hugged me and I proceeded to my corral. As we waited for 15 minutes, I was mentally preparing myself for this challenge. Music was blaring from the stage, music from iPod was blaring. My thoughts spread out. I stared to my left, then I stared to my right. I prepared my Garmin watch. I allowed my mind to wander as I mentally focused on what stood in my way.
PreRace
After the national anthem was sung. Each corral started their race in intervals of one minute. It was our time to run. The minute the announcer counted down to 10, we were on our way. I started my Garmin watch and started my 6.2 mile journey. Weather wise I did not feel the cold weather. Adrenaline took over and started weaving other runners. Moving ahead was a great tactic.
The view at Prospect Park is similar to Central Park. I felt at ease. However, I did realize the park is not as steep as the loop in Central Park. But then again the RNR course was not a loop. Overall I enjoyed myself. I surpassed other runners. Other runners surpassed me. I saw runners of all types of races, sizes and athleticism. I even saw runners dressed in early Halloween costumes. Talk about a fun event.
After 3 miles, I was getting a bit winded. But I marched on. Prior to the race, I felt intimidated. All week I was fixated on the course map. I have done a 10K on my own around the Central Park loop. The map for the Prospect Park 10K seemed a bit too intimidating. Add on top of that, I asked other runners what was it like to run in Prospect Park. Needless to say, I received mixed reactions. With that said, my apprehension deepened. The only way I could ease that apprehension was to actually run the course.
Well here we are, 3 miles in and I feel a bit winded but great overall. For those wondering I had one song on my iPod playing on a constant loop. The song “So Jersey” by The Bouncing Souls played over and over along the course. I rocked out. And even at times I pointed in the sky when lead singer Greg Attino sings, “Don’t forget we’re all one family”. That line gives me the energy to continue.
After getting familiar with the streets of Prospect Park, we rounded for the home stretch. Breaking into a sweat, I knew I was getting close. The joy of completing was unbearable. For a moment I lost focus. I began to slow down, but immediately I regained my composure. Mile 5 soon turned into Mile 6. I was two tenths of a mile away from completing the race.
In the distance I saw the finish line. And similar to the Tunnel to Towers event, I began to speed up. That finish line was mine. And I could taste victory. For an instant I heard my heartbeat. 100 feet turned into 50 feet, which turned into 40 and so forth. I was closer to my ultimate goal. And just like that, I crossed the finish line.
I did it. Unofficially I completed the race 51:20. I set a new personal best. I was overcome with joy and emotion. Running on one good surgically repaired hip all summer long allowed me to do this. After stumbling a bit, I grabbed a bottle of water and two banana’s. I then received the best medal I have received to date.
I Ran 6.2 Miles For This Medal.
Three races have come and gone. From embarrassment, to patriotism and to redemption, I did it. I accomplished what I set out to do. One bad hip did not stop me from achieving this moment. While today’s Rock N Roll race was my last race for 2012, I am far from retired. I have more juice and energy to race more events. My ultimate goal is to conquer the NYC Marathon. I hope to get that opportunity in 2014. But for now I am enjoying this moment and preparing for my next surgery.
For those keeping score at home here are my final numbers:
– I completed the race in 51:16 (OFFICIALLY).
– Out of 4171 runners, I finished 606th.
– Out of 322 male runners between the ages of 30 and 34, I finished 91st.
– Out of 1412 male runners (overall), I finished 419th.
– Pace : 8:15 (That’s a borderline pace. But it’ll do.)
I could not be happier and prouder. Thank you all for supporting. This is not the end…this is only the beginning. Stay tuned for more entries. Just because I will not run competitively until next summer, means I will give up on the blog. The fun is about to start.
Until next time…THANK YOU.
Jorge
My Next 5K
You : Where have you been?
Me : What do you mean?
You : You have been M.I.A. since your first 5K. You have a lot of explaining to do.
Me : *sighs* You are right. I do have a lot of explaining to do. Where do I start.
***Flashback Sequence***
Two days after the Damon Runyon 5K at Yankee Stadium, I discovered that I did not finish the race. I refuse to point fingers, but in actuality I am to blame. The course was not your typical 5K (or 3.1 Mile) race. To complete the 5K a participant had to run the through certain levels around Yankee Stadium more than once. While I started the race a bit too eager, I ultimately made up my time. But as I neared the end of the race, I had to run from the Grandstand Level to the main level through their ramp. As I approached the main level I noticed a fork in the road. At the center of the course stood a sign. The left side said, “Finish” while the right said something that I still cannot make sense of.
Now I am not saying the organizers or volunteers are to blame. I blame myself because I was focused on the finish line. And instead of asking I crossed the finish line. I bet you are asking yourself, “Yeah so what?” Well it turned out the sign I could not make out was to tell me that I had to run through that portion again. Once I completed that portion a second time, then, I can cross the finish line.
Unfortunately, I prematurely crossed the finish line. I received a medal that I did not deserve. While the medal was nice to receive, I have yet to leave it out for others to view. My goal this year was to run the event as a competitor and participate in the same event for fun next year. Well after receiving a “DNF” (Did Not Finish), I am too embarrassed and proud to allow that to happen. I have come too far to allow that to happen.
With that I am putting the Damon Runyon 5K on notice for 2013. Watch out Yankee Stadium, Jorge will redeem himself.
With that embarrassment out of the way, I can now discuss my next race. Tomorrow morning, I am participating in the 11th Annual Tunnel to Towers 5K race. I am excited and elated about participating in this wonderful event. Last year, while unable to run due to femoroacetabular impingement, the area’s local CBS affiliate (WCBS) aired the event from beginning to end. As media partners WCBS interviewed participants, first responders and everyone in between. I vowed to myself on that rainy, overcast September morning to run the event in 2012. I never imagined to myself that I would actually run the event one year later. Despite discomfort in my left hip, I am very passionate about selecting running events.
The Tunnel to Towers event is one of those events I am passionate about. Now in its 11th year, the organizers dedicated the event to Stephen Siller. Stephen Siller was a member of New York’s Bravest. He was a member of the FDNY brotherhood. On September 11, 2001, Stephen had just ended the late shift. While heading to meet up with his brothers for a game of golf, he heard on his police scanner that a plane hit the World Trade Center.
Upon hearing the news, he returned back to the firehouse and picked up his gear. Heading to Lower Manhattan proved to be a big obstacle. The city closed the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel among the other local bridges and tunnels. He picked up his gear, which totaled close to 60 pounds, and ran to Lower Manhattan via the tunnel. Sadly, that was the last time he was seen or heard of. He became one of the many first responders who gave up their lives to save the lives of others.
His memory continues to live today. And because of that he has been immortalized with this 5K run from the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to Lower Manhattan. I am running to honor the memory of the many first responders who give their lives each and every day to help keep us free and safe.
I am ready for the race. I am ready for the challenge. But as I run I will honor those who keep us safe.
If any first responders are reading this blog entry, this is for you.
I thank you.
Bib # 14864 (ie Me) is ready
Until next time, hopefully tomorrow. See ya. Wish me luck.
In Two Weeks…
Welcome to the dog days of summer. In three days we welcome a new month. As soon as you know it, schools will re-open, summer slowly turns into autumn. Cooler weather also allows many to run at any point of the day.
I enjoy the later months as I am currently preparing myself for three races. On August 12, at Yankee Stadium, I will run the Damon Runyon 5K at Yankee Stadium Run/Walk For Cancer Research. For the last two months I have trained hard for this 5K (3.1 Miles) and the subsequent races I am participating. As I prepare for my second hip surgery this December, running the NYC Marathon is out of the question. However, running two 5-K races and one 10-K race in a matter of three months is reasonable. After all I did receive the blessing from my surgeon and physical therapist to get out there and run.
Just a final reminder Tuesday (July 31) is the last day I can collect donations for the charity. Up to this point I collected $330. I am appreciative to those supporting me and most importantly the cause. But I would definitely like to collect more. If you have not done so please click on the link to donate. And if I may please pass the link on to your friends.
http://runyon5k2012.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=1013719&supid=361569785
As I prepare for the race my hips feel great. My right surgically repaired right hip feels great. I have minor discomfort, which is expected since I am less than eight months removed from surgery. Earlier this week I began the journey to my second surgery by requesting and receiving an injection in my left hip. The injection, which took less than a half hour to complete, localized the discomfort in my lift hip.
Prior to the injection, Dr. Andrew Collins, documented the range of motion of my left hip. After experiencing some discomfort in various angles, he was ready to commence the procedure. In order to precisely get into the hip joint he used a “live x-ray” called, a Fluoroscopy machine. After locating the joint, he applies an anesthetic in the hip area. A few minutes after that, the needle was inserted into my hip joint. Three different anesthetics and an anti-inflammatory cortisone were used.
The only discomfort I felt was the initial pressure in my hip joint. The whole time on the table I observed Dr. Collins and even looked at the image of my hip. We even had a brief conversation. Upon completing the minor procedure he once again documented the range of motion in my hip. To no surprise (from experience), I was pain and discomfort free. He wanted me to stay off the hip for at least 2 to 3 days. Initially I wanted to refrain from working out for 3 to 4 days. But after thinking it over, I am active. The procedure occurred on a Tuesday, I returned to the gym on Thursday. I felt great.
With the injection out of the way and both hips feeling strong, I can now prepare. Preparation for these three races is crucial. To some these races are minimal. But to me these races will show how determined I am. There is no stopping me.
While I have a total of three races in three months to worry about, my main focus is on August 12. I am excited and nervous rolled all into one ball. Hell, I even purchased my first apparel for the race. What is it? Well I am going to keep you in suspense.
In preparation I have taken my workouts to another level. This morning I did an hour and a half of cardio. Typically I spend the whole time on one machine. Today, however, I spent the whole time between two cardio machines. First, I spent an entire hour on the spin bike. After re-discovering the spin bike I surely missed the workout. Again the hips felt great. Sweat streaming down my face made the workout well worth it. Once I completed the spin bike I journeyed to the elliptical for a 30 minute workout. I did not get intense with the workout. But rest assured I worked my butt off. I felt great. To cap off the morning/afternoon, I had a session with my personal trainer. We kicked ass. He complimented my look. According to Mitch, I look a bit leaner. I do not see it but I am humbled by his comments.
I am ready. Let’s do this.
runjorgerun 