AM - ran 5 miles in SLC with Mike K. at 6AM. 7:06/mile pace. I felt really good. PM - a quick half mile on the treadmill at the hotel after my chiro adjustment to shake a little bit of the travel out of me. (Elite: 34 miles) Today was a long travel day. Fortunately, we did not have to get up too early, thanks to Mike's hospitality (and great pancakes too). We made our 8:50AM flight to CIN no problem, no delays, likewise for our 3PM flight to NY. Upon arriving in NY, we were greeted by a NYRR volunteer, who took us to a transport van after we got our luggage. At first it was just Stacy and I, but then we picked up what felt like 20 more runners at another terminal. It was tight, but fortunately we were all very very skinny. Talked to James McGown most of the ride, which consisted of several near crashes. I am sooo glad I do not live in NY, and also very glad I do not have to drive anywhere!
Everyone I've met has been very nice, and I've already bumped into several other former D-III runners that I ran against back in the day. I also bumped into Shane Clinger, who is Hobie Call's "agent", but haven't seen Hobie yet. Apparently he is on the same floor as me. I think the Culpeppers are on our floor as well, as I've seen Shayne walking around a bit. Made idle chit-chat with Mbarak Hussein, who is an extremely nice guy, on the elevator. So it's been fun. I'm already really enjoying it, and being in this environment. I feel pretty relaxed, and am getting over the whole "famous runner aura" thing I was talking about the other day. We're all just here to race. I was not able to get my bib and chip tonight, but I think I am Bib #36. Not certain on that though. I was able to pick up my other "goodie stuff". More importantly, I got a killer chiro adjustment that was probably one of the best I've ever had. I guess these guys in NYC are pros! After that, I am feeling quite loose. I am tired from travel, but the legs and core feel good. The only thing left to do tonight is eat. Speaking of which, time to go!
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