Something Stupid

Small announcement: I'm going to attempt something stupid this weekend. Saturday. This should prove to be a foolhardy attempt at either killing my running, or boosting my low motivation. I'll start at noon and run the 6 hours, that's all. All I want to do is run for six hours, that's the only real goal. If I can run for six hours, I'll probably get a nice long run in. If not, I'll still get a long run, and then a long walk.

Anyhow, I know it's stupid. I'm admittedly not in the best shape, but I'll go do it anyway. 6 hours is not quite as pointless as running on a one-mile concrete circle for 12 or 24 hours, though. So there's that.

Why am I doing it? Couldn't tell you. Originally, I had some stupid idea about running a bit over 52.44 miles, just to say I did it. But I don't think I am in that kind of shape right now.

Anyhow, come out to the Bluff Creek Park just north of Lake Hefner and you can watch me, and a bunch of other people who are similarly mad, run a few laps. I am hoping for hecklers after the first 3 hours. Not sure how I'll keep running, otherwise. Heckle, jeer, threaten, anything.

Fat Don't Fly

I gained a few pounds in my latest slow-down or lay-off. Whatever you want to call it. I am about 13 lbs over the race weight I'd like to be. Why? Because I am stupid and lack self-control. That's the short answer.

This said after a morning of animal crackers and peanut butter. Fat don't fly. Or so I heard one day when I was watching this stuff:

And now I remember. Remind me next time you see me pounding the round food* - running big miles and weighing a few extra pounds is a recipe for sore joints and additional pain. But I just like eating too much.

*Round foods are doughnuts, pizza, bagels, sausage patties, hamburgers, cake, pie, cookies, ... you know, round food.

Spotted

In New Jersey

Shifting Gears

Out with the old, in with the new. This marks a change in the blog. And a change in our training. We've been slacking. Before we can run like Valentino Rossi, we need to put in the work. And we got off track. Not far, but a little.

Do you think Mr. Rossi spends any time on the track? Does he work on his fitness a little? Does Tiger Woods hit a few golf balls? Did Sergei Bubka rest? How many days off did Ted Corbitt take? And we are done resting.

If you want to be good at running, you have to run. You have to practice. You have to run A LOT. We know what we have to do, and we have not done it. You know what you have to do, and you have not done it. It's a common malady. Let's go out and hit the roads, and cure ourselves.

So, now, to get fast, we must shift into a lower gear and pull for the long haul. Get your tractors running, and start pulling, rain and shine, like it's your job. That's the first step.

Survey Results - Disorganized other stuff.

Over Half of our participants took the quiz, ... I mean the survey, and so we should start to give some results. But keep your responses coming. I'll update this as more responses come in, so check back with us. If you were at the race, we would like to hear from you!

Q1. How long ya been runnin?

A1. It's a split. Most of you are either 1-2 years, or 10+ years, with few in between

Q2. How many races do you participate in each year?

A2. Three to ten was the most popular answer. But 22% are 10-20, and 17% were more than 20 races a year

Q3. What distances do you race?

A3. The big ones are 5k, 10k, Half-Marathon and Marathon, at 88, 65, 63, and 45%, respectively. Looks like 7 ultras, too. Hmmmm. Some of you might have to make room for another event of ours, late October, 2011. (tentatively - Stay Tuned)

Q4. What do you like to race on? Preferred racing surface:

A4. Most popular order: Road, Trail, Cross-Country, Multi-surface and Track. We forgot to ask about Rock, cactus, dirt, paved, and sand, with some water, grass, and other stuff mixed in. I guess that's multi-surface?

Q5. We wondered if anyone got lost, and how you got to the start.

A5. No one admitted to getting lost. Not sure if I believe you. I got a few calls race morning, but I'm not telling who you are. You know who you are.

Q6. Rate the course!

A6. Difficulty: 5 is most difficult, 1 is least. Most popular answer was 4. Great! Just what we were aiming for. Difficult, but achievable.

Condition of road. 5 is perfect: Most answered 4. Good! It's better to run than to drive, though.

Scenery: 5 is Southern France, 1 is the Southern Plains Landfill. Most popular answer was 4. Awesome!

Traffic/Safety - 5 is Super-Safe: Most answered 4. We're glad. I guess we were worried about traffic, and we know we wanted you to run on the right to make our sweeper vehicles more effective. We worry so you don't have to. Nevertheless, next year it will be better.

Signage/Course Directions - We got a 5 on this one. Which shouldn't be too hard since there was only two turns. But we'll have some maps available on site for those that need them next year.

Q7. We asked for a rating for ourselves.

A7. Most of you thought we should get married. You overwhelmingly thought we were both helpful and happy, (yea!) but one of us got one more vote than the other, and I ain't saying who. A few thought we were disorganized and that they deserved more and did not get their money's worth. We are sorry. We think we were disorganized, too, but Len and Hannah saved the day, so no worries. Maybe I just feel more disorganized than I actually am. Maybe i can't live up to my own standards. Not sure. We also thought it was a bargain of a race. These things cost money! But that's up to you all to judge.

Ok. You thought the prizes were awesome. We did too.

Here are some of the prizes you missed, if you weren't there:

• The Open Trophies were real roadkill skulls of coyote, red fox, and raccoon, mounted on burned reclaimed Appalachian no. 1 white oak. The skulls were fully cleaned and "bleached" of course. (as described in my last macabre post.) They were secured with copper wire. They have a lifetime guarantee - as long as those critters live, so will I service those trophies.
• The Masters Woman winner received a very nice bottle of red wine (a California Pinot Noir), a brass vase, and a flower bouquet.
• 2nd Masters Woman got a painted cowbell trophy and an Argentinian Malbec (which she was not there for, and we did not ship. It was good, though).
• 3rd Masters Woman got a bottle of California Merlot, and a brass armadillo.
• The Masters Men got the same bottles (Thank you Bombay Liquor!) and, in order: a stag-horn knife, $30 gift certificate at H&H gun range, and elk skin gloves.
• Two 12-packs of cheap, awful beer were given away.
• 10- $10 gift Certificates to Bombay Liquor were given away.
• Several $10 off coupons to Sports Authority were given away.
• A sleeve of Styrofoam cups.
• 2 free car washes at Mojo's Car Wash. (Thank You Mojos!)
• 5 - gift certificates to Braum's. (Andreia loves Braums.)
• A quart of honey.
• Candy.
• Chocolate
• A t-shirt for the Chief Drive-In (thank you!)
• 3 "Get Out Of Jail Free" t-shirts from Joe Bob's Bail Bonds (thanks Joe Bob!)

Q8. How was the beer?

A8. Only 60% of you had the beer, but of that number, 80% of you liked it and will be asking for it by name. That is good. (And hey, Coop Ale Works, I am sure you know, but the Native Amber was more popular than the Wheat. But we were happy to have the Wheat!) We hope you come back next year, Blake!

Q9. Rate the food.

A9. The most popular answer was "Jake's is my favorite!" closely followed by "I didn't eat anything." We should have a little more variety next year, with lighter after-race fare in addition to the beer and BBQ.

Q10. Are you going to run The Road Kill next year?

A10. 0% said no. 5% maybe, and the rest: Yes. That's pretty good. But if you could bring a few more of your friends, we sure would appreciate it.

Congratulations!

Today, Scott Downard of Norman, Oklahoma placed 50th at the Chicago Marathon in a time of 2:26:52. A pace of 5:36/mile was none too shabby

Not coincidentally, Scott was our 2010 Road Kill overall champion, with a time of 56:58. Sounds like The Road Kill is an excellent springboard for a good fall marathon.

Great Job, Scott!

In Case You Missed IT

1st - Coyote

2nd - Red Fox

3rd - Raccoon

The open trophies were a good part of the inspiration for the name of the race. First the coyote, then the raccoon, were genuine "roadkill finds" that we made while on runs before we were really looking. Otto, our dog, was happy to help us find these dead animals. We moved them off the road a bit and tried our hardest to keep him from rolling in it. Meanwhile, the bugs did their work.

The most common finds are skunk, armadillo, opossum, frog, and raccoon. Things that creep at night and are blinded by your headlights. Deer and cats are fairly common, too.

We (and by this, I mean, "me," more than I mean, "we.") wrapped the skulls in cloth and plastic and collected the loose teeth from the side of the road and trucked them home while on the run. Nature does some amazing work. Bugs did most of the work of naturally cleaning the carcasses. The sun did a lot of the work, too. Wait too long and even the bones start getting chewed by rodents and insects. But if you retrieve the bones at the right time, a small amount of hydrogen peroxide solution and patience will do the rest. Getting the teeth back in their spots was a bit of a trick. They get loose and fall out. It's like a little puzzle.

For the record, boiling the bones is not the most efficient thing. It takes many hours. It causes nausea while you do it, and makes it difficult to use your pans for other purposes, if you enjoy retaining your victuals. I Don't recommend it. Rather, if you find a Fantastic Road Kill Specimen - do this:

1. Take some photographs.

2. Get it off the road, somehow, and outside the mowed right of way.

3. Note the location.

4. Wait about 2 weeks, in warm weather. Then check on the progress.

5. Turn it over if you need to.

6. Let it go until it looks really clean, and mostly white.

7. Bring it home. Be careful and get all the teeth.

8. Leave it outside, perhaps in a shallow grave, and the bugs will do more work.

9. Soak it in a light 3% Hydrogen peroxide for 1 to 2 weeks.

10. Let dry and whiten in the sun.

11. Glue the parts together.

That's it!

Next year will be more impressive. Let me know if you have, or if you find, any of the following:

Whitetail Deer.

Mule Deer.

Black Bear.

Beeves.

Wild Hogs.

Coyote.

Pronghorn.

Antlers, horns, tusks, and big teeth are all appreciated.

(Slightly More) Readable Results - 2010

Women's Results
place , name , age , city , state , time , pace/mi. , bib. ,
1 , McKale Davis , 26 , Stillwater , OK , 1:02:12 , 06:13 , 91 ,
2 , Jenny Graef , 25 , Norman , OK , 1:05:19 , 06:32 , 101 ,
3 , Katie Kramer , 30 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:06:48 , 06:41 , 49 ,
4 , Sarah Hunt , 24 , Norman , OK , 1:18:53 , 07:53 , 104 ,
5 , Jennifer Phillips , 30 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:21:48 , 08:11 , 61 ,
6 , Amy Pannell , 39 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:30:00 , 09:00 , 22 ,
7 , Jennifer Crow , 29 , Norman , OK , 1:34:21 , 09:26 , 106 ,
8 , Marta Speakmon , 40 , Lawton , OK , 1:35:15 , 09:31 , 70 ,
9 , Carol Brantley , 47 , Fayetteville , AR , 1:37:32 , 09:45 , 60 ,
10 , Tiffani Dragg , 33 , Norman , OK , 1:37:52 , 09:47 , 50 ,
11 , Shelly Mack , 43 , Lucien , OK , 1:38:19 , 09:50 , 27 ,
12 , Kathy Thomas , 53 , Stillwater , OK , 1:40:56 , 10:06 , 66 ,
13 , Suehzen Mosley , 43 , Chickasha , OK , 1:42:40 , 10:16 , 117 ,
14 , Kari Duvall , 28 , Norman , OK , 1:42:50 , 10:17 , 31 ,
15 , Donna Lenz , 55 , Prarie Grove , AR , 1:43:02 , 10:18 , 45 ,
16 , Laloni Baca , 29 , Covington , OK , 1:43:41 , 10:22 , 98 ,
17 , Rhonda Wiles , 44 , Stillwater , OK , 1:44:12 , 10:25 , 72 ,
18 , Carolynn Parker , 51 , Harrah , OK , 1:45:02 , 10:30 , 29 ,
19 , Shilpa Abbitt , 40 , Edmond , OK , 1:45:05 , 10:30 , 73 ,
20 , Michelle Long , 45 , Moore , OK , 1:49:44 , 10:58 , 71 ,
21 , Amber Brandt , 26 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:49:55 , 11:00 , 56 ,
22 , Kathy Phillips , 37 , Duncan , OK , 1:54:19 , 11:26 , 69 ,
23 , J'Nell Ash , 47 , Duncan , OK , 1:54:20 , 11:26 , 79 ,
24 , Melissa Kohout , 41 , Duncan , OK , 1:54:21 , 11:26 , 68 ,
25 , Natalie Brand , 43 , Duncan , OK , 1:54:22 , 11:26 , 77 ,
26 , Desiree Powell , 49 , Enid , OK , 1:55:03 , 11:30 , 96 ,
27 , Ashley Herrin , 27 , Lawton , OK , 1:56:37 , 11:40 , 74 ,
28 , Dorothy Nichols , 36 , Chickasha , OK , 2:13:40 , 13:22 , 52 ,
29 , Natalie Graham , 33 , Amber , OK , 2:13:42 , 13:22 , 108 ,
30 , Michelle D. Smith , 47 , Norman , OK , 2:15:39 , 13:34 , 30 ,
31 , Toni Merren , 34 , Lawton , OK , 2:17:02 , 13:42 , 67 ,
32 , Donona Bryant , 36 , Purcell , OK , 2:22:16 , 14:14 , 48 ,
33 , Joann Doleman , 63 , Lawton , OK , 2:22:23 , 14:14 , 25 ,
34 , Lydia Durington , 30 , Tuttle , OK , 2:27:00 , 14:42 , 87 ,
35 , Laura Ward , 52 , Yukon , OK , 2:27:06 , 14:43 , 47 ,
36 , Carol Cobb , 57 , Broken Arrow , OK , 2:37:04 , 15:42 , 37 ,
37 , Magan Aldridge , 24 , Chickasha , OK , 2:40:03 , 16:00 , 119 ,
38 , Leslie Ledford , 41 , Ninnekah , OK , 2:47:16 , 16:44 , 85 ,
39 , Maryann McLemore , 51 , Ninnekah , OK , 2:47:18 , 16:44 , 109 ,
40 , Donna R Smith , 44 , Elgin , OK , 2:54:29 , 17:27 , 116 ,
41 , Michelle Pangle , 26 , Oklahoma City , OK , 2:58:19 , 17:50 , 83 ,
42 , Ashley Rayburn , 27 , Chickasha , OK , 2:58:22 , 17:50 , 107 ,
43 , Bethany Rush , 22 , Chickasha , OK , 2:58:23 , 17:50 , 118 ,
44 , Linda Plummer , 57 , Wichita Falls , TX , 3:15:27 , 19:33 , 94 ,

Masters Women - 45 and older
place , name , age , city , state , time , pace/mi. , bib. ,
1 , Carol Brantley , 47 , Fayetteville , AR , 1:37:32 , 09:45 , 60 ,
2 , Kathy Thomas , 53 , Stillwater , OK , 1:40:56 , 10:06 , 66 ,
3 , Donna Lenz , 55 , Prarie Grove , AR , 1:43:02 , 10:18 , 45 ,
4 , Carolynn Parker , 51 , Harrah , OK , 1:45:02 , 10:30 , 29 ,
5 , Michelle Long , 45 , Moore , OK , 1:49:44 , 10:58 , 71 ,
6 , J'Nell Ash , 47 , Duncan , OK , 1:54:20 , 11:26 , 79 ,
7 , Desiree Powell , 49 , Enid , OK , 1:55:03 , 11:30 , 96 ,
8 , Michelle D. Smith , 47 , Norman , OK , 2:15:39 , 13:34 , 30 ,
9 , Joann Doleman , 63 , Lawton , OK , 2:22:23 , 14:14 , 25 ,
10 , Laura Ward , 52 , Yukon , OK , 2:27:06 , 14:43 , 47 ,
11 , Carol Cobb , 57 , Broken Arrow , OK , 2:37:04 , 15:42 , 37 ,
12 , Maryann McLemore , 51 , Ninnekah , OK , 2:47:18 , 16:44 , 109 ,
13 , Linda Plummer , 57 , Wichita Falls , TX , 3:15:27 , 19:33 , 94 ,

Men's Results
place , name , age , city , state , time , pace/mi. , bib. ,
1 , Scott Downard , 28 , Norman , OK , 0:56:58 , 05:42 , 110 ,
2 , Matt Aguero , 30 , Lawton , OK , 0:57:25 , 05:45 , 82 ,
3 , Charles Billi , 29 , Lawton , OK , 0:58:34 , 05:51 , 88 ,
4 , Billy Brewer , 36 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:05:54 , 06:35 , 44 ,
5 , Jason Tilton , 37 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:06:34 , 06:39 , 114 ,
6 , Timothy Jo Woelk , 28 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:07:53 , 06:47 , 112 ,
7 , Russell Allison , 46 , Norman , OK , 1:08:23 , 06:50 , 81 ,
8 , Theodore Sager , 39 , Sterling , OK , 1:08:38 , 06:52 , 99 ,
9 , Steve Livingston , 43 , Lawton , OK , 1:11:14 , 07:07 , 92 ,
10 , John Wilp , 49 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:11:41 , 07:10 , 54 ,
11 , Pascal Demeyer , 45 , Edmond , OK , 1:14:09 , 07:25 , 100 ,
12 , Jesse Brown , 41 , Lawton , OK , 1:15:37 , 07:34 , 89 ,
13 , Paul Friese , 54 , Mustang , OK , 1:15:58 , 07:36 , 33 ,
14 , Wilbur Sauerbry , 38 , Lawton , OK , 1:17:23 , 07:44 , 78 ,
15 , Jason Poudrier , 27 , Rush Springs , OK , 1:19:30 , 07:57 , 95 ,
16 , Nathan Taylor , 35 , Broken Arrow , OK , 1:26:23 , 08:38 , 84 ,
17 , Larry Rubenstein , 61 , Los Angeles , CA , 1:28:27 , 08:51 , 113 ,
18 , John Hughes , 55 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:29:23 , 08:56 , 103 ,
19 , Jason Rickman , 35 , Edmond , OK , 1:32:08 , 09:13 , 28 ,
20 , Leon Curry , 52 , Lawton , OK , 1:32:37 , 09:16 , 35 ,
21 , Ronnie Varva , 62 , Chickasha , OK , 1:33:57 , 09:24 , 55 ,
22 , Wesley Moulton , 39 , Jones , OK , 1:36:39 , 09:40 , 76 ,
23 , Pete Richardson , 39 , Piedmont , OK , 1:37:03 , 09:42 , 40 ,
24 , Bayand Godsave , 35 , Elgin , OK , 1:38:23 , 09:50 , 38 ,
25 , Michael Parker , 50 , Harrah , OK , 1:40:01 , 10:00 , 105 ,
26 , Steve Smith , 44 , Edmond , OK , 1:45:06 , 10:31 , 23 ,
27 , Tyrone Richardson , 31 , Piedmont , OK , 1:47:31 , 10:45 , 97 ,
28 , Paul Crowl , 47 , Chickasha , OK , 1:49:56 , 11:00 , 51 ,
29 , Jay Davison , 31 , Chickasha , OK , 1:56:18 , 11:38 , 102 ,
30 , Colten Kennedy , 22 , Elgin , OK , 1:56:37 , 11:40 , 57 ,
31 , Ralph Breckenridge , 45 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:57:34 , 11:45 , 43 ,
32 , Tommy Stewart , 45 , Chickasha , OK , 2:00:20 , 12:02 , 111 ,
33 , Robert Doleman , 74 , Lawton , OK , 2:08:57 , 12:54 , 24 ,
34 , Buddy Jones , 72 , Oklahoma City , OK , 2:14:48 , 13:29 , 115 ,
35 , Ron Cobb , 60 , Broken Arrow , OK , 2:37:05 , 15:42 , 36 ,
36 , Don Plummer , 55 , Wichita Falls , TX , 3:15:21 , 19:32 , 93 ,

Masters Men - 45 and older
place , name , age , city , state , time , pace/mi. , bib. ,
1 , Russell Allison , 46 , Norman , OK , 1:08:23 , 06:50 , 81 ,
2 , John Wilp , 49 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:11:41 , 07:10 , 54 ,
3 , Pascal Demeyer , 45 , Edmond , OK , 1:14:09 , 07:25 , 100 ,
4 , Paul Friese , 54 , Mustang , OK , 1:15:58 , 07:36 , 33 ,
5 , Larry Rubenstein , 61 , Los Angeles , CA , 1:28:27 , 08:51 , 113 ,
6 , John Hughes , 55 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:29:23 , 08:56 , 103 ,
7 , Leon Curry , 52 , Lawton , OK , 1:32:37 , 09:16 , 35 ,
8 , Ronnie Varva , 62 , Chickasha , OK , 1:33:57 , 09:24 , 55 ,
9 , Michael Parker , 50 , Harrah , OK , 1:40:01 , 10:00 , 105 ,
10 , Paul Crowl , 47 , Chickasha , OK , 1:49:56 , 11:00 , 51 ,
11 , Ralph Breckenridge , 45 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:57:34 , 11:45 , 43 ,
12 , Tommy Stewart , 45 , Chickasha , OK , 2:00:20 , 12:02 , 111 ,
13 , Robert Doleman , 74 , Lawton , OK , 2:08:57 , 12:54 , 24 ,
14 , Buddy Jones , 72 , Oklahoma City , OK , 2:14:48 , 13:29 , 115 ,
15 , Ron Cobb , 60 , Broken Arrow , OK , 2:37:05 , 15:42 , 36 ,
16 , Don Plummer , 55 , Wichita Falls , TX , 3:15:21 , 19:32 , 93 ,

All Participants
fin_ord , name , age , city , state , time , pace/mi. , bib. , sexPl ,
1 , Scott Downard , 28 , Norman , OK , 0:56:58 , 05:42 , 110 , 1 ,
2 , Matt Aguero , 30 , Lawton , OK , 0:57:25 , 05:45 , 82 , 2 ,
3 , Charles Billi , 29 , Lawton , OK , 0:58:34 , 05:51 , 88 , 3 ,
4 , McKale Davis , 26 , Stillwater , OK , 1:02:12 , 06:13 , 91 , 1 ,
5 , Jenny Graef , 25 , Norman , OK , 1:05:19 , 06:32 , 101 , 2 ,
6 , Billy Brewer , 36 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:05:54 , 06:35 , 44 , 4 ,
7 , Jason Tilton , 37 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:06:34 , 06:39 , 114 , 5 ,
8 , Katie Kramer , 30 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:06:48 , 06:41 , 49 , 3 ,
9 , Timothy Jo Woelk , 28 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:07:53 , 06:47 , 112 , 6 ,
10 , Russell Allison , 46 , Norman , OK , 1:08:23 , 06:50 , 81 , 7 ,
11 , Theodore Sager , 39 , Sterling , OK , 1:08:38 , 06:52 , 99 , 8 ,
12 , Steve Livingston , 43 , Lawton , OK , 1:11:14 , 07:07 , 92 , 9 ,
13 , John Wilp , 49 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:11:41 , 07:10 , 54 , 10 ,
14 , Pascal Demeyer , 45 , Edmond , OK , 1:14:09 , 07:25 , 100 , 11 ,
15 , Jesse Brown , 41 , Lawton , OK , 1:15:37 , 07:34 , 89 , 12 ,
16 , Paul Friese , 54 , Mustang , OK , 1:15:58 , 07:36 , 33 , 13 ,
17 , Wilbur Sauerbry , 38 , Lawton , OK , 1:17:23 , 07:44 , 78 , 14 ,
18 , Sarah Hunt , 24 , Norman , OK , 1:18:53 , 07:53 , 104 , 4 ,
19 , Jason Poudrier , 27 , Rush Springs , OK , 1:19:30 , 07:57 , 95 , 15 ,
20 , Jennifer Phillips , 30 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:21:48 , 08:11 , 61 , 5 ,
21 , Nathan Taylor , 35 , Broken Arrow , OK , 1:26:23 , 08:38 , 84 , 16 ,
22 , Larry Rubenstein , 61 , Los Angeles , CA , 1:28:27 , 08:51 , 113 , 17 ,
23 , John Hughes , 55 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:29:23 , 08:56 , 103 , 18 ,
24 , Amy Pannell , 39 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:30:00 , 09:00 , 22 , 6 ,
25 , Jason Rickman , 35 , Edmond , OK , 1:32:08 , 09:13 , 28 , 19 ,
26 , Leon Curry , 52 , Lawton , OK , 1:32:37 , 09:16 , 35 , 20 ,
27 , Ronnie Varva , 62 , Chickasha , OK , 1:33:57 , 09:24 , 55 , 21 ,
28 , Jennifer Crow , 29 , Norman , OK , 1:34:21 , 09:26 , 106 , 7 ,
29 , Marta Speakmon , 40 , Lawton , OK , 1:35:15 , 09:31 , 70 , 8 ,
30 , Wesley Moulton , 39 , Jones , OK , 1:36:39 , 09:40 , 76 , 22 ,
31 , Pete Richardson , 39 , Piedmont , OK , 1:37:03 , 09:42 , 40 , 23 ,
32 , Carol Brantley , 47 , Fayetteville , AR , 1:37:32 , 09:45 , 60 , 9 ,
33 , Tiffani Dragg , 33 , Norman , OK , 1:37:52 , 09:47 , 50 , 10 ,
34 , Shelly Mack , 43 , Lucien , OK , 1:38:19 , 09:50 , 27 , 11 ,
35 , Bayand Godsave , 35 , Elgin , OK , 1:38:23 , 09:50 , 38 , 24 ,
36 , Michael Parker , 50 , Harrah , OK , 1:40:01 , 10:00 , 105 , 25 ,
37 , Kathy Thomas , 53 , Stillwater , OK , 1:40:56 , 10:06 , 66 , 12 ,
38 , Suehzen Mosley , 43 , Chickasha , OK , 1:42:40 , 10:16 , 117 , 13 ,
39 , Kari Duvall , 28 , Norman , OK , 1:42:50 , 10:17 , 31 , 14 ,
40 , Donna Lenz , 55 , Prarie Grove , AR , 1:43:02 , 10:18 , 45 , 15 ,
41 , Laloni Baca , 29 , Covington , OK , 1:43:41 , 10:22 , 98 , 16 ,
42 , Rhonda Wiles , 44 , Stillwater , OK , 1:44:12 , 10:25 , 72 , 17 ,
43 , Carolynn Parker , 51 , Harrah , OK , 1:45:02 , 10:30 , 29 , 18 ,
44 , Shilpa Abbitt , 40 , Edmond , OK , 1:45:05 , 10:30 , 73 , 19 ,
45 , Steve Smith , 44 , Edmond , OK , 1:45:06 , 10:31 , 23 , 26 ,
46 , Tyrone Richardson , 31 , Piedmont , OK , 1:47:31 , 10:45 , 97 , 27 ,
47 , Michelle Long , 45 , Moore , OK , 1:49:44 , 10:58 , 71 , 20 ,
48 , Amber Brandt , 26 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:49:55 , 11:00 , 56 , 21 ,
49 , Paul Crowl , 47 , Chickasha , OK , 1:49:56 , 11:00 , 51 , 28 ,
50 , Kathy Phillips , 37 , Duncan , OK , 1:54:19 , 11:26 , 69 , 22 ,
51 , J'Nell Ash , 47 , Duncan , OK , 1:54:20 , 11:26 , 79 , 23 ,
52 , Melissa Kohout , 41 , Duncan , OK , 1:54:21 , 11:26 , 68 , 24 ,
53 , Natalie Brand , 43 , Duncan , OK , 1:54:22 , 11:26 , 77 , 25 ,
54 , Desiree Powell , 49 , Enid , OK , 1:55:03 , 11:30 , 96 , 26 ,
55 , Jay Davison , 31 , Chickasha , OK , 1:56:18 , 11:38 , 102 , 29 ,
56 , Ashley Herrin , 27 , Lawton , OK , 1:56:37 , 11:40 , 74 , 27 ,
57 , Colten Kennedy , 22 , Elgin , OK , 1:56:37 , 11:40 , 57 , 30 ,
58 , Ralph Breckenridge , 45 , Oklahoma City , OK , 1:57:34 , 11:45 , 43 , 31 ,
59 , Tommy Stewart , 45 , Chickasha , OK , 2:00:20 , 12:02 , 111 , 32 ,
60 , Robert Doleman , 74 , Lawton , OK , 2:08:57 , 12:54 , 24 , 33 ,
61 , Dorothy Nichols , 36 , Chickasha , OK , 2:13:40 , 13:22 , 52 , 28 ,
62 , Natalie Graham , 33 , Amber , OK , 2:13:42 , 13:22 , 108 , 29 ,
63 , Buddy Jones , 72 , Oklahoma City , OK , 2:14:48 , 13:29 , 115 , 34 ,
64 , Michelle D. Smith , 47 , Norman , OK , 2:15:39 , 13:34 , 30 , 30 ,
65 , Toni Merren , 34 , Lawton , OK , 2:17:02 , 13:42 , 67 , 31 ,
66 , Donona Bryant , 36 , Purcell , OK , 2:22:16 , 14:14 , 48 , 32 ,
67 , Joann Doleman , 63 , Lawton , OK , 2:22:23 , 14:14 , 25 , 33 ,
68 , Lydia Durington , 30 , Tuttle , OK , 2:27:00 , 14:42 , 87 , 34 ,
69 , Laura Ward , 52 , Yukon , OK , 2:27:06 , 14:43 , 47 , 35 ,
70 , Carol Cobb , 57 , Broken Arrow , OK , 2:37:04 , 15:42 , 37 , 36 ,
71 , Ron Cobb , 60 , Broken Arrow , OK , 2:37:05 , 15:42 , 36 , 35 ,
72 , Magan Aldridge , 24 , Chickasha , OK , 2:40:03 , 16:00 , 119 , 37 ,
73 , Leslie Ledford , 41 , Ninnekah , OK , 2:47:16 , 16:44 , 85 , 38 ,
74 , Maryann McLemore , 51 , Ninnekah , OK , 2:47:18 , 16:44 , 109 , 39 ,
75 , Donna R Smith , 44 , Elgin , OK , 2:54:29 , 17:27 , 116 , 40 ,
76 , Michelle Pangle , 26 , Oklahoma City , OK , 2:58:19 , 17:50 , 83 , 41 ,
77 , Ashley Rayburn , 27 , Chickasha , OK , 2:58:22 , 17:50 , 107 , 42 ,
78 , Bethany Rush , 22 , Chickasha , OK , 2:58:23 , 17:50 , 118 , 43 ,
79 , Don Plummer , 55 , Wichita Falls , TX , 3:15:21 , 19:32 , 93 , 36 ,
80 , Linda Plummer , 57 , Wichita Falls , TX , 3:15:27 , 19:33 , 94 , 44 ,

Your Mug (photographs)

Check it out.

A big thank you to Karen Thibodeaux and Your Sporting Image. We can't take photos like you can!

Also - SEND US YOUR PHOTOS!

I will post them here, but only with your permission.

Mr. Stewart, do we have your permission? Awesome Bib! you really captured the spirit of the race.

Have a great evening!

D.

Answers to Some of Life's Pressing Issues

Okay, maybe it's too big a promise but here are a few answers to things you asked. We really appreciate your suggestions and concerns. Keep em coming!


QUESTION: Can I still get my mug?

ANSWER: You will be getting your mug if you did not make it to the race. We trust you had an excellent reason for not coming. Acceptable reasons involved death, dismemberment and disease. Your mug will come to you via, U.S. Postal Service. Hopefully, Ronnie, BiB #55 and Chickasha's finest mailman, will deliver to you. If you happen to be the ONE person who left theirs (Godsave), you will also get your mug.


QUESTION: Can I still purchase a shirt or an extra mug?

Yep. Shirts are $17.00. Mugs are $17. That price includes your shipping. Send us an email @roadkillrace@gmail.com or you can send a check to Washita Valley Running Club 1328 W. Dakota Chickasha, OK 73018

QUESTION: Can homeowners do something about their dogs for next year?

ANSWER: All of the homeowners were notified about the race and asked to keep their dogs at bay. We are sorry that you saw some out there, but short of shooting em, I'm not sure what else we could have done. If you have any suggestions or know the homeowners in the area and can help us get the word out for next year, please let us know.


QUESTION: Will you be closing the road for next year?

ANSWER: We are going to work on this for next year. We suggested it to the authorities, but we did not make headway. Some of our support from County Commissioners came late in the process and we trust that by next year, they will have a better understanding of road racing. For next year, we want to make sure that runners and walkers stay to the right of the road if we can't get it closed. We are teaching our community what a road race is all about!

QUESTION: Will you two be married by next year?

ANSWER: hmmm.

QUESTION: Why didn't you guys run?

ANSWER: Oh, we wanted to. If we can round up a few more volunteers, you bet your shorts, we'll get in the game, but only in costume.

QUESTION: Did you guys plant those road kill  'coons?

ANSWER: Absolutely not. The Big Guy Upstairs does have a sense of humor, doesn't he?

QUESTION: Can I join the Washita Valley Running Club?

ANSWER: Absolutely! This race was born out of trying to plan some longer races for members training for the Tulsa Marathon in November and not finding those races! We would love to run and train with you. Group long runs are on Saturday am. Find the group on Facebook. We post our training runs there. We welcome anyone from Lawton or surrounding parts to join us. All paces are welcome!

QUESTION: Are you going to keep writing the blog?

ANSWER: Yup, it's too fun to stop!


QUESTION: What is next year's date?

ANSWER: October 1, 2011. Same bat channel. Same bat time.

Thank you!

We wanted to take a brief moment and thank you all for participating in The Road Kill 10 Mile Foot Race. This race was born on the exact route one early morning when Derek and I passed a poor dead soul. We felt strongly that the area needed a race that was longer in distance and more challenging than a flat and fast course. You see, we know one thing about you all. When the bar is raised, you will perform. Yes, we handed out some prizes but our hope is that rising to the challenge was your best reward. Your spirit and determination out there was AMAZING. We thank you for letting us be a part of that and can't wait to see you again next year.

Survey

We are still recouperatin' here at Race Central. We hope you are too. Pictures will be up soon, but in the meantime if you have any please send em our way! (unless they are bad ones of Andreia)


Would you, could you take a moment and answer 10 tiny questions about your race experience?

Create your free online surveys with SurveyMonkey, the world's leading questionnaire tool.

RESULTS-cause it ain't official till you see it on the web

                                                               
                     The Road Kill 10 Mile Footrace  
                            Chickasha Oklahoma 

                           10 MILE MALE RESULTS
Place Name                    Age City/state         Guntime Pace  Bib#  
===== ======================= === ================== ======= ===== ===== 
    1 Scott Downard            28 Norman Ok            56:58  9:11   110 
    2 Matt Aguero              30 Lawton Ok            57:25  9:15    82 
    3 Charles Billi            29 Lawton Ok            58:34  9:26    88 
    4 Billy Brewer             36 Oklahoma City Ok   1:05:54 10:37    44 
    5 Jason Tilton             37 Oklahoma City Ok   1:06:34 10:43   114 
    6 Timothy Jo Woelk         99 Oklahoma City Ok   1:07:53 10:56   112 
    7 Russell Allison          46 Norman Ok          1:08:23 11:01    81 
    8 Theodore Sager           39 Sterling Ok        1:08:38 11:03    99 
    9 Steve Livingston         43 Lawton Ok          1:11:14 11:28    92 
   10 John Wilp                49 Oklahoma City Ok   1:11:41 11:33    54 
   11 Pascal Demeyer           45 Edmond Ok          1:14:09 11:56   100 
   12 Jesse Brown              41 Lawton Ok          1:15:37 12:11    89 
   13 Paul Friese              54 Mustang Ok         1:15:58 12:14    33 
   14 Wilbur Sauerbry          38 Lawton Ok          1:17:23 12:28    78 
   15 Jason Poudrier           27 Rush Springs Ok    1:19:30 12:48    95 
   16 Nathan Taylor            35 Broken Arrow Ok    1:26:23 13:55    84 
   17 Larry Rubenstein         61 Los Angeles Ca     1:28:27 14:14   113 
   18 John Hughes              55 Oklahoma City Ok   1:29:23 14:24   103 
   19 Jason Rickman            35 Edmond Ok          1:32:08 14:50    28 
   20 Leon Curry               52 Lawton Ok          1:32:37 14:55    35 
   21 Ronnie Varva             62 Chickasha Ok       1:33:57 15:08    55 
   22 Wesley Moulton           39 Jones Ok           1:36:39 15:34    76 
   23 Pete Richardson          39 Piedmont Ok        1:37:03 15:37    40 
   24 Bayand Godsave           35 Elgin Ok           1:38:23 15:50    38 
   25 Michael Parker           50 Harrah Ok          1:40:01 16:06   105 
   26 Steve Smith              44 Edmond Ok          1:45:06 16:55    23 
   27 Tyrone Richardson        31 Piedmont Ok        1:47:31 17:19    97 
   28 Paul Crowl               47 Chickasha Ok       1:49:56 17:42    51 
   29 Jay Davison              31 Chickasha Ok       1:56:18 18:43   102 
   30 Colten Kennedy           22 Elgin Ok           1:56:37 18:46    57 
   31 Ralph Breckenridge       45 Oklahoma City Ok   1:57:34 18:56    43 
   32 Tommy Stewart            45 Chickasha Ok       2:00:20 19:22   111 
   33 Robert Doleman           74 Lawton Ok          2:08:57 20:46    24 
   34 Buddy Jones              72 Oklahoma City Ok   2:14:48 21:42   115 
   35 Ron Cobb                 60 Broken Arrow Ok    2:37:05 25:17    36 
   36 Don Plummer              55 Wichita Falls Tx   3:15:21 31:27    93 

              10 MILE FEMALE RESULTS
Place Name                    Age City/state         Guntime Pace  Bib#  
===== ======================= === ================== ======= ===== ===== 
    1 McKale Davis             26 Stillwater Ok      1:02:12 10:01    91 
    2 Jenny Graef              25 Norman Ok          1:05:19 10:31   101 
    3 Katie Kramer             30 Oklahoma City Ok   1:06:48 10:45    49 
    4 Sarah Hunt               24 Norman Ok          1:18:53 12:42   104 
    5 Jennifer Phillips        30 Oklahoma City Ok   1:21:48 13:10    61 
    6 Amy Pannell              39 Oklahoma City Ok   1:30:00 14:30    22 
    7 Jennifer Crow            29 Norman Ok          1:34:21 15:11   106 
    8 Marta Speakmon           40 Lawton Ok          1:35:15 15:20    70 
    9 Carol Brantley           47 Fayetteville Ar    1:37:32 15:42    60 
   10 Tiffani Dragg            33 Norman Ok          1:37:52 15:45    50 
   11 Shelly Mack              43 Lucien Ok          1:38:19 15:50    27 
   12 Kathy Thomas             53 Stillwater Ok      1:40:56 16:15    66 
   13 Suehzen Mosley           43 Chickasha Ok       1:42:40 16:32   117 
   14 Kari Duvall              28 Norman Ok          1:42:50 16:33    31 
   15 Donna Lenz               55 Prairie Grove Ar   1:43:02 16:35    45 
   16 Laloni Baca              29 Covington Ok       1:43:41 16:42    98 
   17 Rhonda Wiles             44 Stillwater Ok      1:44:12 16:47    72 
   18 Carolynn Parker          51 Harrah Ok          1:45:02 16:55    29 
   19 Shilpa Abbitt            40 Edmond Ok          1:45:05 16:55    73 
   20 Michelle Long            45 Moore Ok           1:49:44 17:40    71 
   21 Amber Brandt             26 Oklahoma City Ok   1:49:55 17:42    56 
   22 Kathy Phillips           37 Duncan Ok          1:54:19 18:24    69 
   23 J'Nell Ash               47 Duncan Ok          1:54:20 18:24    79 
   24 Melissa Kohout           41 Duncan Ok          1:54:21 18:25    68 
   25 Natalie Brand            43 Duncan Ok          1:54:22 18:25    77 
   26 Desiree Powell           49 Enid Ok            1:55:03 18:31    96 
   27 Ashley Herrin            27 Lawton Ok          1:56:37 18:46    74 
   28 Dorothy Nichols          36 Chickasha Ok       2:13:40 21:31    52 
   29 Natalie Graham           33 Amber Ok           2:13:42 21:31   108 
   30 Michelle D. Smith        47 Norman Ok          2:15:39 21:50    30 
   31 Toni Merren              34 Lawton Ok          2:17:02 22:04    67 
   32 Donona Bryant            36 Purcell Ok         2:22:16 22:54    48 
   33 Joann Doleman            63 Lawton Ok          2:22:23 22:55    25 
   34 Lydia Durington          30 Tuttle Ok          2:27:00 23:40    87 
   35 Laura Ward               52 Yukon Ok           2:27:06 23:41    47 
   36 Carol Cobb               57 Broken Arrow Ok    2:37:04 25:17    37 
   37 Magan Aldridge           24 Chickasha Ok       2:40:03 25:46   119 
   38 Leslie Ledford           41 Ninnekah Ok        2:47:16 26:56    85 
   39 Maryann McLemore         51 Ninnekah Ok        2:47:18 26:56   109 
   40 Donna R Smith            44 Elgin Ok           2:54:29 28:05   116 
   41 Michelle Pangle          26 Okc Ok             2:58:19 28:42    83 
   42 Ashley Rayburn           27 Chickasha Ok       2:58:22 28:43   107 
   43 Bethany Rush             22 Chickasha Ok       2:58:23 28:43   118 
   44 Linda Plummer            57 Wichita Falls Tx   3:15:27 31:28    94 

Results Coming Soon

As soon as Derek quits drinkin'

Register At the Race - 7:00AM

Online Registration is now Closed.

Race-Day Registration opens at 7:00AM, and ends at 7:50AM.

See you at the race!

Shotgun Start at 8:00AM CDT.

Like the World Cup, or the Stanley Cup... only not.

Memorial Services October 2, 2010, 8:00am

September 30, 2010. Uncle Jim passed today at 6:03pm. Services to be held October 2nd, 2010 on CR1400 (Quail Road). We gather to mourn his passing, and celebrate his life. As we pass his final resting place, and collectively hold our noses, (at mile 1.45, or so), we will remember why we came to run here today. Maybe.

The Money

In addition to trophies, gifts, and sundries, prize monies are as follows.

Open - Regardless of Sex

1st - $150.

2nd - $100.

3rd - $50.

Open Women (stacking with above, if 1, 2, 3 men get "chicked")

1st - $150.

2nd - $100.

3rd - $50.

Thursday: The Most Dangerous Day

Everybody and their mother knows you dont train hard on Friday, the day before a race. 

But a lot of runners will overtrain on Thursday if left on their own. 

Thursday is the most dangerous day of the week. 

Marty Stern, Villanova women's coach

 Your legs are feeling pretty good. You probably ran a few miles this week where you could feel that PR coming.  You might have even convinced yourself that the hills won't be too bad. McMillian told you that you're on track. You've got your splits all set in your mind. You're ready. 

The mystery of race day lures us all to run.  Will you perform like you should? Will you psych yourself out before you even get there? What if that chick that always nips you at the line is there? You should consider the weather and all it's glorious complexities: the dew point, the wind, the barometric pressure, the solar gain. Should I eat a bagel, drink coffee, or just water before the race? 

If you get all the pieces correct, if the planets align, and if you don't have an urgent case of the trots at the start, then you get the pleasure of pounding your body for 10 miles. 10 miles of pain. 10 miles until glory. 

Happy Thursday! 

Your Guide to Informations

This post is not fancy. It's just that we have a lot of posts, and this will help you wade your way through them all. Or it may further confuse you. Oh, and by the way, online registration ends at noon, CDT on October 1st. After that, we'll see you at the race. I'll advise you to get there early if you have not registered - an hour should do it. Otherwise, between 45 minutes and 30 minutes might work for most runners. We start at 8:00AM sharp, by my watch. Not sure if it's fast or slow. Roll the dice and show up late if you like!

First, we told you about the race, and gave you a copy of our registration information that is printed on the fliers. Then we gave an explanation of how the race was born.

We talked quite a lot about what we have to offer you. First we told you how we were not going to have a race shirt. But rather, a shirt-swap. We later partially recanted that statement. Instead, we offer our really cool mug. We told you about our prizes. Just a teaser. We did not tell you how we have prizes for MOST of you. Prizes for effort, place, or seemingly random. Or random. We're not sure yet. Some are special, some are ... less special. Many are inspired by "roadkill" we see on the road - the trash and refuse. Andreia wanted to buy you a few packs of cigarettes, but I couldn't quite bring myself to do that. We talked about beer - specifically Coop Ale Works, your provider of quality ale on race day. And lastly, we talked about BBQ.

We did the FAQ thing. We have a general race information post. We showed the plan and elevation, as well as a general description of the course. We spake of our announcer. There was a mention of hill training.

There is talk about where you are from, and about our town. We spoke of camping out at the Muscle Car Ranch.

There is a lot of talk about trash. We even went out and picked up a few more bags yesterday.

Hmmmm. That's about all the important stuff that you might care about.

Random RD Thoughts

GET YER RACIN FACE ON

I've only taken one good race photo.  It's not the fault of the photographer. They can't help that I look like death while racing. But then again, I am working out there and racing hurts. Plain and simple.

Good

Bad.
and a little weird
since I didn't know that dude behind me

My favorite photographer folks are from Your Sporting Image. They will be at The Road Kill.  I promise if there is any chance of taking a good shot, they will do it.  Be sure you get 'em to get pictures of you around the cool junk at the Ranch. There is a bathtub that make for some mighty interestin' shots and of course, you could pose with that LongHorn. I wouldn't; but you could.

Photo Op

THE CHIEF DRIVE-IN

The Chief Drive-In

Did you know that the LAST standing drive-in theater in Oklahoma is right here in Chickasha, Oklahoma? The good folks at The Chief will be manning your half-way aide station. They live along our route and were very excited about helping you guys stay hydrated.

Recently for my daughter's birthday, we headed down to the drive-In to watch a movie. My  kids (14, 10, 8 and 6) didn't even know what a drive-in was all about! This is a piece of Americana that we can't let slip away. It is a lovely way to spend a fall evening. Yes, they do a double-feature, so you can't beat the price!

We would love for you to enjoy a night at The Chief. Stay in town and use your coupon this Saturday night. The Chief is open YEAR-round. They can handle large church youth groups or sports teams, so remember them the next time you are planning an event.

RACE BIBS

Are you busy decoratin' yours?

By now you should have received an email with your RACE BIB NUMBER if you were early registered. If not, it's coming today.  You got this in advance so you can make your bib.

If you do not make your own bib, we will have supplies to do so at the race. Please do not fret. This was not supposed to be like the art project that you never could do in high school. The idea was to have some fun with it.  One of our runners is planning on a nice bib made from some parts of beer packaging. Should be interesting. Another has mentioned rhinestones and glitter. Some are putting their prison names on it along with their number. As long as the number is visible, it's all good.

Below is a picture of my first-run at a bib. I may go with something else by race day.

STOP YER FRETTIN

If for some reason you are afrettin about the race, the course, directions, your bib, your mother-in-law, you daughter's no-good boyfriend, pick up the telephone and give us a call. We will be happy to answer any questions. Some of the answers, especially about your daughter, may not be too good, but we will try to keep ya from worryin' so much about the race stuff.


(405) 822-9617  or (405) 816-9770  


or email us @ roadkillrace@gmail.com

Road Kill Clean Up Day

I may have mentioned once or twice that trash dumped in the country is a pet peeve of mine. In my world, people that liter on otherwise beautiful country roads,  rank high in a list of Universal Losers. Somewhere on that list between Tonya Harding and Imelda Marcos are a bunch of folks that toss out their McFatty meal bag and their Can O Calories from the car window. Of course, the greater offenders are the couch and large appliance-tossers. Who are these people anyway?

Well, I can tell you that however rotten trash dumpers are, the kids from Chickasha High School Keys Club, are on a whole 'nother list. Maybe it's Santa's Nice List. Our group of volunteers worked really hard to make your race a bit more enjoyable. They picked up loads and loads of crap. 1,440 pounds worth of crap! They braved spiders, dirty diapers and mysterious looking containers to produce a cleaner route. Thank you!

We are getting excited to show off our route to you next Saturday. We are most excited about seeing ya'll handle those hills! That's the report from Race Central. Stay tuned as there will be lots of information coming this week.

Feel free to call (405) 822-9617 or email roadkillrace@gmail.com with any questions!

The Road Kill Road Crew

Thanks in advance to all of you will be at the Trash pick-up event this Saturday, September 25th at 8:00 am.



We will meet at the entrance of the Muscle Car Ranch, 3609 S. 16th Street, Chickasha, OK.


View Larger Map

If you have gloves, please bring them. We will have some available for those that don't bring any.

Those of you looking for service hours (Scouts) will get a signed document for your leaders that will help you in tracking your hours.


We are excited to see what a difference we can make in the area! It is such a beautiful country road. We can't wait to share it with all our visitors.

Sloshability

We found this video that shows you the Super Cool Stainless Steel Mug that we have been telling you about.

See what I mean? Awesomeness in a mug. Now that's a beautiful thing. Of course, it will have our very cool logo. You're going to love it. Chances are that you'll want another one because every mug deserves a partner.  Let us know if you do. We'll probably make an extra order after the race. 

By Popular Demand

A little while back, we made a post about t-shirts. We didn't mean to upset you, but we did. We get a call, an e-mail, or a comment on this every day. People send in registrations with little notes about the t-shirt. (I want mine, please, here is my size.) I guess one of the reasons t-shirts are so common at races is that runners like their t-shirts! Who knew? We just didn't want to make something that no one wanted or needed, and eventually just threw away.

We still want you to participate in our t-shirt swap. Just bring in your old or unwanted race or running shirts, and take home a new-to-you shirt. Or simply donate your old shirts. Again, info on that is in this post.

As you may have noticed, our theme is anti-garbage. Specifically, it's road clean-up. That's our "charity" if you will. We did not know of a Put Your Trash In The Can And Make Less Waste While You Are At It organization in Oklahoma. So our race serves that function. And yet, many of you assure us that you indeed want a race shirt. We already have our giveaways, but then we thought the local high school Cross-Country and Track and Field team could use a boost, people want shirts, and so we designed and ordered a shirt for them to sell. It is a very limited run with simple artwork and is a cool and soft 50/50 blend material. For $17.00 you can take home a t-shirt and donate profits to young local runners.

In keeping with our quest to run a high-quality operation, we looked for the coolest shirts around to use as examples for our design. I googled "cool t-shirts" and came up with this (on the right.) It is a liquid cooled shirt that runs around $130. And it is really cool! Except, I suppose, for the refrigerant system you have to lug around. And the price. We wanted to hit a price closer to a tenth of that.

So I thought that maybe my lingo was a little off. It's true all the cool cats nowadays say "cool beans," but it doesn't apply to t-shirts I think. In fact, I am starting to think there is not a "cool cat" in today's lexicon. Cool is not cool. Maybe hot is the new cool. So, I googled "hot t-shirts." I was introduced to an entirely different genre of t-shirt. One that I don't recommend googling, especially with small children gamboling through the house. I should have known. Sorry about that one.

So it came down to "what would we wear?" And we came up with a t-shirt that is not festooned with ads and sponsors, but is just a simple, yet bold reminder that you came to The Road Kill. And you get to support young local runners. And so do we. Everyone is happy!

But we still think you are going to Love the Fantastic trophyesque cup you'll be getting. It is shiny, practical, beautiful, durable, and reusable. Much more practical, and more valuable than a race-shirt. They go to the early registrants, but we have a few left. First-come, first served. Reserve yours today.

Early Registration

Early Registration ends tonight at midnight. Register here to avoid a late penalty charge, and to get "the stuff."

An Announcement on Announcing

The Road Kill is proud to announce that Mark Bravo will provide announcement services for our little race. Coach Bravo is a veteran race-day announcer with experience at the Oklahoma City memorial Marathon, with KFOR-TV, at Little Rock Marathon and the Dallas White Rock Marathon, among others. We are pleased that Mark has agreed to announce our race in its inaugural year!

Coach Bravo is not just a sports announcer, he is an athlete, running coach and mentor. Mark Bravo is a respected authority on running in our state. He has earned his credentials by coaching countless runners, and continues to fill his coaching resume with more successful athletes. You can find out more about Mark's coaching here.

While Mark has helped countless athletes in their struggles with sport, he also applies the lessons learned in training to a broad spectrum of life's challenges. Not immune to such challenge, Mark Bravo underwent hip surgery and later total hip replacement in May 2007.

He prevailed with a positive attitude and the physical tenacity of a long-distance runner. Mark returned from the injury and is running again today. He can still compete, too! Mark is not one to talk endlessly about his own accomplishments; I'll just just tell you that he would indeed be in the running for an award in our race!

What amazes me is his positive attitude and lack of bitterness toward the sport of running. Mark might be puzzled that I say that. He turns adversity and challenge into a strength. It is that, more than anything, that I admire. When I look at Mark, I see someone who can be admired for who he is, who he was, and for his contributions towards the future. He lets me know that I can set goals and overcome life's little obstacles.

Coach Bravo will have available copies of his new book, MOMENTUM: 77 Observations Toward A Life Well Lived. We're sure he wouldn't mind signing a copy for you. Mark's insight and thoughtfulness as outlined in this book can be applied to so many of life's opportunities and challenges. Momentum will also make a great gift for anyone. We bought a copy, so should you.

Deadlines

I don't know who came up with the term, "deadline,"  but I sure as heck know that whoever did, must have felt the way I feel about them. I hate them. Adulthood is a slow progression of one deadline, one calendar event after another.

                                                                          April 15

Proposal due at 5:00pm 

8:00 am

Boston qualifying marathon

17:39 5K

20th anniversary

Mother's birthday 

etc.

etc.

etc.

As a precious child the first time you were confronted with the notion that a thing had to be done by a certain time, you probably reacted much like my 8 year old son does. The morning announcement of , "we will be leaving for school in 10 minutes," is ALWAYS followed by a slowing of all mental processes. His speech slurs, his motor abilities slack and confusion sets in. The intelligent boy that had been discussing who would REALLY win a modern-day battle between Zeus and Poseidon, suddenly is unaware of his last name and what is a lunchbox. 

So, resistance is innate. Perhaps it is our latent desire to cling to childhood and thus refuse impending death that keeps us from the inevitable task at hand. We are all going to die soon enough. Let' s live and be stupid while we can. Let's run and act like a bunch of kids. Doesn't that sound fun?

If you have seen The Bucket List you may remember one of my favorite lines.

While in his hospital bed, Carter turns to Edward and says,
"45 years goes by pretty fast" 

Edward responds, "Like smoke through a keyhole." 

So blow the smoke the other way.  Do like Edward and Carter and jump out of that plane, or run a silly 10 mile race. Boldly embrace your very near future. However anxious you feel now, it will get worse on that start line. Then it will be sooooo good as you turn the corner and head toward bbq and beer.  

The deadline for early registration is this 
Friday, September 17

Go ahead, click the link and register

On September 18th, we will be ordering the super special finisher's cups. Trust me, this is good stuff that you won't want to miss out on.  Please, please ensure that you receive your cup by getting your registration in EARLY. 

Like now. 

Go on.

BBQ and the Chisholm Trail

As you may have heard, Jake's Rib of Chickasha will be supplying us with some post-race food! For those who live in Chickasha, there is no need for us to tell you what good news this is. The biggest testament to Jake's is the big crowd! Every day of the week, for lunch and dinner, Jake's parking lot is crowded to overflowing. If

you don't get a seat by 11:30 in the morning, you are likely to park a block down the road, and have to wait a few minutes for your table and food. Customers don't mind, however, as they know they will be getting good service, plenty of food, and top-notch barbeque. An extended lunch rush is hardly over for an hour before folks start lining up for dinner.

We encourage all our runners to bring a chair and sit right down after the race. Cheer on our fellow runners as they cross the line, enjoy the awards ceremony, commiserate with your fellow runner, eat, drink, and have a good time. We will enjoy Sloppy Jake's sandwiches after the race, along with some chips and your choice of beverage served from your own trophy of a cup.

If you haven't had enough, you can go get a HUGE sit-down meal at Jake's. Discounts on your next meal at Jake's will be provided to all our runners. A huge THANKS! to Jake's Rib. We know there's no other 10-mile race where you can get all this. It's a steal of a deal.

There is a theme in all this, isn't there? Sometimes it seems a little vague to us. But really, there is. Look closely at this old

photograph. See the men enjoying beef, beans, and beer out of steel cups? After a long day on the trail, that's what we're going to do, too.

The photo shows an old chuckwagon like the kind that were used on the Chisholm Trail. The trail went from Texas up through Oklahoma, right through the washita valley by Chickasha, Oklahoma. You can visit the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center, in nearby Duncan, Oklahoma, and find out a lot more about the history of this area. There are still places you can still see the wagon ruts worn into the hard clay and rock. Numerous historical markers can be seen wherever the trail crosses a major road.

Beer News & Other News

A while back, we had a little post about Beer. Now, I am ashamed to admit it, but I have not had too much beer since writing that post. It's not that my love of beer has fallen off, but just that the running has crept in and displaced the beer. In a well-lived and balanced life, there should be room for both.

Now, all of the sudden, I am feeling a little thirst. Perhaps I should go for a run first, and slake that thirst as I write the rest of this post. ... Ah... Ok, that's better. Everything is better with a beer in your hand. Wait - a beer in the belly is better than one in the hand. Maybe? Or two? I forget how the saying goes. Is there a saying? Or is it the anticipation? I am not sure. I thing I feel really sleepy now. I will finish this in the morning.

OK, back to this post. We wanted to serve beer to our runners, and we wanted to serve Oklahoma brewed beer, from an Oklahoma company - and we wanted to serve the best. In that vein, we contacted Coop Ale Works. And they agreed to be involved! So hats off to Coop Ale Works. If you have not had the pleasure of drinking any of their fine ales or lagers, you should start.

We wish our local Liquor Store, Bombay Liquor, carried it. So we paid them a visit. And so they will. They will also be supplying us with a bunch of stuff. Multiple door prizes, supplies, and more beer. If you win something, you are likely to pay them a visit to pick it up. Thanks, Steve!

Steve also instantly identified the bottle in the 'possum's hand. It's Courvoisier. Is that a good way to die? I'm not going to find out.