It takes Dedication – A Swift Backblast

It takes Dedication – A Swift Backblast

At 4:55 am, 3 cars sat in the parking lot of the Vine with engines idling and the occupants eyeing each other to see who would make the first move.  Strange Brew was first but quickly withdrew and put back on his seatbelt (bad sign).  Next was YHC to step out into the downpour.  SB took this as an opportunity to announce his intent to fartsack and left. (he later returned once he had a change of heart)

The pre-run was executed flawlessly with 7 in attendance where Madame and Outback peeled off for more and Haggis and Tolkien were gathered to keep the number at 7 for the main event.

After reaching the corner of “that road and the other road”, Haggis led us in some dynamic stretches including skipping during which Tolkien had the best form.  Then the main event began.  Here’s the synopsis:

1. 2 x 10min at Threshold pace w/ 2 min rest
2. 2 x 3min at Interval pace w/ 2 min jog rest
3. 2 x 400m at Repetition pace w/ 400m jog rest

What easily fits on 3 lines of text, does not feel nearly as easy.  This workout even claimed one of our own with a hamstring flare-up (Mr. Bean).  Ice up those hammies before you hit the beach this weekend!

Tolkien who, as already stated has strangely artistic skipping form, was fully outfitted for the rain this morning with full poncho and what appeared to be waterproof pants.  Hopefully the goal of no sickness was achieved.  He may even find he lost about 10 pounds of water weight if he tests the scales this afternoon.

Fire Hazard is continuing his streak of running workout greatness.  That guy is a #runner even if he won’t quite admit it yet.  He was also easy to spot in his fluorescent orange knee high socks.  Maybe they are warm as well as safe.

Wild Turkey was with us today.  Not sure if it was a first Swift appearance or not, but he looked right at home.  I didn’t know turkeys fly in the rain but it seemed possible today as he worked through the intervals.

Strange Brew made the right decision after guilting himself at the light to turn the car around and come back to the PAX.  Also, it seems like it was the perfect day for the board shorts.  #swimming

Haggis continued practicing his “kick” by going slow on the “out” and really fast on the “back” of each interval.  Perhaps it is self control or perhaps the competition of being the first back.  Whatever it is, it is commendable as not even Frasier could reel him in on the returns.

Speaking of Frasier. He did not seemed hampered by being soaked in rain and must have maintained optimal wrist temperature, because he was lightning fast out there today.  Couldn’t tell if it was swish-swish or squish-squish today though.  YHC was too far away to tell.

At COT, Ice-9 strolled in.  Apparently he got here a little late and couldn’t find the group.  He got in a good workout in the Premier deck though so it was not a loss.  Welcome any time brother!

It was hard to get out of the car this morning, but it turned out to be a great day of running.  Thanks for your dedication men!

Announcements:

• January 1 16k race – talk to Haggis
• Devil’s Turn is on for Thursday 5:15 am – normal location
• Rebel Yell is on for Thursday 6 – 7
• Have a Merry Christmas!