Ultimate runner…the event that gets my heart pumping. The race that tests all parts of a runner, endurance, raw speed, the guts to push through 5 races, the mile, the quarter, the half mile, 100 meters and a 5k. I dream about this race!
June 28, 2008, it was 91 degrees with a light breeze on the Hanes Park track. The first race is the mile. My goal, break 5 minutes and save my legs for the quarter and 100 meters. Off we go…stay smooth…stay focused. I cross the line in 4:55. Good effort, worked hard but I was ready for the next four events.
Next is the quarter mile. Goal is to keep the leaders close and drop the hammer in the last 100 meters. The start is really congested and I find myself boxed in…not where I want to be. After some pushing and shoving I see some open space and move to the outside of the pack. As we round the last turn and head for the finish I’m right where I want to be. Third place and gaining on the leaders…It is go time!
I dig deep and search for that last gear. No gear just a huge SNAP in my left leg. My day was done.
After several doctors visits and an MRI… the diagnoses was a ruptured Achilles tendon. It has been two weeks since the race and I’m quickly learning to navigate life on crutches. I will be in a cast for at least the next 8 weeks. Rehabilitation will start when the cast is removed and the doctor says it will be good as new by late Fall.
In September I will take part in the Blue Ridge Relay in a new capacity…van driver. I have a huge seat to fill. Slacker will hand over the keys and run the race this year. I will have to pick up the Slack…literally!
I’m excited to take over this new role on Team Little Guy. The team is in full blown training and we are working hard to raise over $100,000 for the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation this year. I will keep you posted on my recovery and my progress on the van driving training. Jeff and Slacker have built a brutal 8 week program for me. I will be ready!
Run Little Guy Run!
Eman
July 15, 2008 at 5:36 pm |
E-man –
It stinks that you will be laid up for the race, but it’s great that you’ll be joining us for the race in September.
To adequately prep for the van driving extravaganza, get plenty of rest, drink plenty of liquids … and look for the junkiest junk food you can find.
July 15, 2008 at 5:59 pm |
Eric,
Sorrry that you will be “out of the race” for awhile. However, I wanted to caution you on the “plenty of liquids” suggestion that Jeff gave you. The Blue Ridge Relay is in the MOUNTAINS – curvy, hilly, ups and down – bad for runners but worse for drivers who have indulged in any of the local “liquids.” While you are driving the van, please don’t plan to accept the hospitality of any of the locals – especially if it is clear liquid in a Mason jar! Good luck on yor rehab!
July 15, 2008 at 6:09 pm |
Ouch! Get well soon, man. What a bummer…
July 18, 2008 at 4:05 pm |
Sorry about the achilles Eman. I’m sure the initial injury was painful, but for you not being able to run has got to be agony. I know you’ll work the rehab like a pro and be back on the asphalt beforeyou know it. Thanks for all you do to support the cause. Go TLG!