Ross: Running A Marathon

Four Years of Marathons

2011-11-23T17:07:00.013-06:00

By Ross Forman

I remember sitting at my parents’ kitchen table about 4 ½ years ago. It was May or June, 2007, and I was there to tell them that I wouldn’t be joining the family that year for Thanksgiving dinner, which my mom always cooks.

I was, instead, going to be in Florence, Italy, to run my first marathon.

I’m sure they thought I was crazy. In fact, I thought I was crazy for even thinking I could run 26.2 miles.

But, I had registered with the endurance-training program that supported the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) and was determined to cross that finish-line in Florence – and not just because my friend Chuck bet me $1 that I wouldn’t make it, which he did pay.

Well, I crossed that finish-line in Florence – and have run 14 total marathons in four years.

Yep, the guy who once said, and still kind of believes, that the best way to go 26.2 miles is in a car, ideally with a chauffer, is a 14-time marathoner.

I never thought I could run one marathon, let alone 14 – with No. 15 right around the corner and No. 16 already planned.

Clearly, running is an addiction.

Even my distain for pasta hasn’t slowed my passion.

I think about Florence every Thanksgiving time, and when I’m officiating high school hockey games this weekend, my mind will, at times, drift back to Florence.

My next marathon is Sunday, Dec. 9, when I run the Honolulu Marathon for the fourth consecutive year. One thing that really means a lot to me about this marathon is that both my mom and dad will be in Hawaii, cheering as I run through Waikiki at about Mile 5, and then again in Kapiolani Park, when the Puka shells are placed around my neck, signifying I finished the race.

I’ve made so many friends through running, particularly this summer when, for the first time, I was a Coach for the Team To End AIDS (T2) endurance-training program.

There will be T2 runners from Chicago and Los Angeles participating in the Honolulu Marathon, which certainly makes the event extra special. I hope the rookie T2 runners in Hawaii will have the same overwhelming emotions that I enjoyed in Florence – and I know they will.

There’s something about running a marathon, as I know 14 times. The emotions run the gamut. From pure joy to what-the-$%^-am-I-doing?

I couldn’t be happier, or more proud, that I skipped Thanksgiving dinner 2007 to become a marathoner.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Ross

Two Marathons in Two Weeks

2011-11-08T10:23:00.012-06:00

By Ross Forman

What a run the past month or so has been.

On Sept. 23, I flew to Montreal for the city’s annual marathon, which was two days later. I stayed at the Candlewood Suites Hotel which was a great hotel, circa 2001. No comment about this property circa 2011. I’ll never forget the hotel guests who were literally yelling – and I do mean yelling – in the hallway at midnight on Saturday night. Normally, I wouldn’t care too, too much, but having to run 26.2 miles in a matter of hours, I thought a call to the front-desk was necessary. OK, I had to call three times over a 30-minute span before security did anything, but that’s beside the point.

Thankfully, they eventually stopped yelling and I was able to sleep … until about 3:30 a.m., when the fire alarm went off.

I first thought it was simply a prank. But no. I called the front-desk and was told, yes, it is a real fire-alarm and that I had to evacuate my 11th floor room immediately. (I’ll skip the comments I made at that time, but you can believe there was an F-Bomb or two, or 20.)

About 30 minutes later, we were given the all-clear and allowed back into the hotel. Nothing like walking up 11 flights of stairs at 4 a.m.

The marathon itself was uneventful in comparison to the hours before the event. I ran my second-best marathon and was, for the most part, happy. But I realized at, oh, about Mile 18 or 20, that the plyometric training in the Insanity workouts that I used diligently to train for the Tel Aviv Marathon last April was greatly missed; my quads were rather tight in Montreal, but felt fine after Tel Aviv.

On Wednesday, Oct. 5, I got an email from CC with the Team To End AIDS (T2), the endurance-training program I have been a Coach for this year. She had my duties for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday morning, Oct. 9.

They wanted me to “essentially” run the whole marathon, pacing T2 runners who wanted to reach a certain time.

I immediately asked what her definition of “essentially” was and she told me to, well, run the entire 26.2 miles.

That meant two marathons in two weeks.

Hesitation? Not for a second. It was, instead, a challenge for me personally and I really wanted to be out on the course with the T2 runners.

I started with about 15 runners and, for the first 13.1 miles, I really was having a good time. Sure, some of the 15 dropped back and some sped up, but I was thrilled that I got the runners still with me at the half-way point to within one minute of where they needed to be to hit their pre-race time goal.

The second half of the Chicago Marathon was, though, spent dealing with injured or aching T2 runners. Not sure if it was my words of encouragement, a suggestion for eliminating their painful cramps, or a simple re-assuring hug that, yes, you will finish. Ultimately, each one of the T2 runners who endured problems on the second half crossed that finish-line. And each, as I made them promise me, ran across the finish-line.

The 2011 Chicago Marathon wasn’t my marathon. It wasn’t my finishing-time, per se. It was, instead, all about the T2 runners. It was their moment, their day to shine. (See the special video at the end in tribute to all the T2 runners.)

But for me, as I crossed the finish line in my 13th marathon, it was my most rewarding marathon ever, without question. I’m not sure if the T2 runners, as well as T2 staff (including AFC president and fellow runner David Munar, plus CC, Dan, Teddy, Maryann, etc.) and fellow coaches (Katie, Dan, Jamie, Laurin, Emilio, Jim, Bill) know how much joy (and a little pain) I had sharing in their day.

The post-race hugs, celebratory drinks, and the day-after thank-you emails from runners made the 2011 Chicago Marathon a memory I’ll never forget.

I ran with T2 runners along the lakefront on Oct. 15 and Oct. 22 in preparation for the annual Monster Dash Half Marathon on Saturday morning, Oct. 29. Dan and I ran this 13.1 mile ran at a pretty fast clip, and ultimately he finished a few minutes before me, but we both had a great time.

The weather has started getting cold in Chicago, so that means the annual Honolulu Marathon is rapidly approaching. I am super excited to step to the starting line, at 5 a.m. local time, for my fourth consecutive Honolulu Marathon and my 14th overall marathon. I’ll be running with Dell, as always on this race, and perhaps CC, Disa and others from T2.

What a month of running memories it’s been.

Ross.

Summer Running ... It's Insanity!

2011-07-27T10:54:00.015-05:00

By Ross Forman

Two months to go, so it’s time for Round 2.

The Montreal Marathon – my next 26.2-mile adventure – is Sunday morning, Sept. 25, so that means it’s time for some serious Insanity.

I used the popular, high-intensity Insanity workout, run by Shaun T, to score my Personal Record (PR) time at the Tel Aviv Marathon on April 8. I felt great before, during and after that race, and I attribute a large portion of that to Insanity. Beating my previous PR by 31 minutes was really cool.

So let’s see what happens in Montreal.

Then, on Sunday morning, Dec. 11, it’s back to Hawaii to run the annual Honolulu Marathon.

As most know, Bob Knight is the Greatest Basketball Coach, Ever … at least in my eyes. One of my favorite Knight clips was when he talks about a game-face, and his lack of knowledge of what a game-face truly is.

That said, I’m truly bringing my game-face to Insanity this round. When I first ran through Insanity, I brought it, but truly wasn’t sure what the results would be. Now for Round 2, since I know the moves, know what to do, know what hurts, know what really hurts … I’m going for it! I’m optimistic that, in Montreal, I can trim a few more minutes off my PR. Who knows.

Running, you see, is a funny thing. Sometime you have it and can run forever without any pain or problems. Other times, running across the street can feel like a near-impossible task.

I’ve had a lot of fun coaching with the Team To End AIDS this spring and summer, and am particularly happy the weather has warmed up. We trained in May and I was bundled up like an Eskimo, which is no fun at all.

This past Saturday, I ran with most of the T2 pace-groups, and I hope they had as much fun as I did. The Chicago Marathoners ran 16 miles. Those training for the Half Marathon ran 10, and those training for the Honolulu Marathon ran 8. I probably ran about 12, give or take, and it sure was interesting running at so many different paces. We have some fast runners at T2 and just about every other pace, too. We have groups that talk throughout their run. We have other groups that, well, don’t seem to talk much at all. And it’s always interesting and entertaining to hear what some groups are talking about.

On race day, I’m a talker. I often will comment about a runner’s attire, their shoes, their motivation for going 26.2 miles by foot, or to spectator’s about their signs. I talk to anyone and everyone, even if they don’t reply. I guess I do it to entertain myself; I guess the music in my iPod just doesn’t cut it.

In closing, I want to share a shocking, emotional email I received in late-June from Cheryl McKenzie, who I met while running the 2008 Amsterdam Marathon and have not spoken to since by any format (phone, email, etc.). Heck, we never even traded contact information that day. Still, she wrote:

Enjoy the rest of the summer, my favorite season. And if you want to join me on the Insanity trail, or with P90X, let me know. They both deliver results!

Ross.

PS ... Kudos to Michelle Roache for her new book 2011 Run USA Marathon Planner, which offers a weekly listing of races -- and not just marathons, but also half marathons, and some 5K, 10K and even 50K races. The soft-cover book also has an area for a Weekly Training Log, which includes Activity Type, Total Duration, Total Distance and many more areas to chronicle your training. For more information about the book, or to order, write to:

Possum House c/o M Roache
1317 N. San Fernando Road, # 136
Burbank, CA 91504

4 Years & 11 Marathons Later....

2011-05-18T10:05:00.019-05:00

By Ross Forman

Four years ago almost to the day, I went to an information meeting for the National AIDS Marathon Training Program (NAMTP). John Beach, who lived in Chicago at the time and has since moved to Las Vegas, ran the hour-long session, held in Evanston, Ill.

The thought of running a 26.2-mile marathon was intriguing at the time, but I never truly thought I could run one. However, I knew others who had run marathons, so they were part of my motivation. My thinking was: if they could do it, so could I.

I ultimately registered with the NAMTP and was determined to start and, more important, finish the Florence (Italy) Marathon on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, 2007, which was my first-ever marathon.

I did just that.

Well, it’s now Running Season once again in Chicago and I’m back running along Chicago’s lakefront, but with a slight twist.

I am now Coach Ross for the Team To Ends AIDS (T2), arguably the best charity-driven marathon training program in the city.

Eleven marathons later, I sure have come a long way since that meeting in Evanston … John and I still joke about that meeting to this day.

I’m part of the T2 Coaching Staff, focused on the finish-line for others. T2 runners will be hitting the course in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, the Honolulu Marathon and the Chicago Half Marathon. And I’m really looking forward to helping the T2 runners reach their goals and beyond.

It was a 4-mile run this past Saturday and Sunday for the T2 runners, and they certainly braved Mother Nature’s wrath as the temperature was in the mid-40s, with stiff wind and rain. Not too fun to be outside, but there we were, starting at Foster Avenue and heading south along the lakefront path.

Hopefully the T2 runners are having fun because Coach Ross certainly is.

And I’m not just a coach in title. I am certified by USA Track & Field, as are all T2 coaches. (I can’t wait to get my official certification in the mail, which I will frame and will share it in a future post.)

I’m running my next marathon on Sunday, Sept. 25, when I head north of the border for the annual Montreal Marathon. Can’t wait as I look to surpass my Personal Record (PR), set at the Tel Aviv Marathon on April 8. So yes, that means more Insanity workouts with Shaun T starting in late-July, which is about the time I’ll be wrapping up my current cycle of P90X.

If anyone is considering the health and fitness offerings from Team Beachbody, such as P90X, Insanity and its once-a-day meal-replacement Shakeology, go for it. They work!

I of course want to set a new PR in Montreal, but also want to see my all-time favorite hockey player: Yvan Cournoyer, who played his entire Hall of Fame career for the Montreal Canadiens and now serves as an official ambassador for the team.

And how fitting it would be … Ross The Runner in Montreal with the Montreal icon nicknamed, “The Roadrunner.”

Can’t wait for summer to get here in full,
Ross.

P.S. For my current favorite song, see below.

Tel Aviv - A Place to Achieve!

2011-04-14T21:52:00.012-05:00

By Ross Forman

I didn’t want to make eye-contact with anyone as I crossed the finish-line of the Tel Aviv Marathon on Friday morning, April 8.

In fact, I’ll admit that I rubbed my forehead seconds after ending the 26.2-mile run through this magical Israeli city just to hide my eyes – much how baseball players always put their glove up to their face when they talk to a teammate, so others can’t see what they’re saying.

I didn’t want anyone to see what my eyes were saying – tears of joy!

I was proud, incredibly proud. I was amazed, astonished, elated – as much as that November day in 2007, when I finished my first marathon.

This time, though, I hadn’t just finished my 11th marathon, but I did it with an exclamation!

I had multiple pre-race time goals and I didn’t surpass each, I crushed them!

I had run 10 marathons before I crossed the starting-line in Tel Aviv. When I crossed the finish-line in Tel Aviv, my time was better than any of the previous 10 marathons by an amazing 31 minutes.

Yep, I set a Personal Record (PR) in Tel Aviv my 31 frickin’ minutes!

The tears of joy were expected because I never, ever, EVER thought I’d do as well as I did.

I knew going into the Tel Aviv Marathon that I was mentally and physically ready, no doubt stronger all around than any other marathon – I just never expected to cut 31 minutes off my best time.

As many know, and I have written about it multiple times, I started the popular, high-intensity Insanity workouts in 2011 that are cardio-focused and led by Shaun T. No doubt you’ve seen Insanity featured in TV infomercials. I was, I’ll admit, skeptical of Insanity last December. But I was hooked on Insanity in January; and overjoyed with Insanity in April.

In a little more than three months of unwavering commitment, and puddles of sweat, Insanity led me to one of the greatest days of my life.

The first phone call I made from the VIP finisher’s area in Tel Aviv was to my friend Dell Brooks in Hawaii. We’ve run the Honolulu Marathon together for the past three years, and I knew he’d want to know how I did and I knew he’d be proud, and no doubt shocked. He was.

Then I called Fran Patoskie in Hawaii. She was the one who, last December, got me hooked on Insanity. As I told her by phone from Israel, if she said in mid-December that Insanity would help me cut 31 minutes off my best marathon time, I would have asked if she was insane or smoking some illegal drugs.

I then called Katie Schmid, my marathon coach, but quickly hung up the call when I realized it was about 4 a.m. back in Chicago. I didn’t think the call had actually gone through, but it had. Katie later said she thought it was some drunk calling her, so she didn’t answer, though she said she wishes she had – if she knew who and why I was calling.

Two hours after finishing, I went into the Mediterranean Sea – and boy was it cold! But it served its purpose – no need for an ice bath back at the hotel.

And the next day, I felt better than I had after any previous marathon. I truly felt I could run the day after without any problems or pain. Insanity was the reason!

I will be running two more marathons in 2011. No doubt the Honolulu Marathon in mid-December, and another in September or October. Regardless, my plan is, 10 weeks of Insanity before each, especially since Dell and I are shooting to cut 16 or 17 minutes off my Tel Aviv time and set a new PR.

Now that truly is Insanity.

Ross.
PS … If you want to learn more about Insanity or P90X, which also is produced by Team Beachbody, go to my website: http://www.runwithross.com

PSS … This column of personal joy is dedicated to the deep sadness I feel over the news that a 42 year-old runner died from dehydration suffered during the Tel Aviv Marathon.

Drop and Give Me 50 Pushups!

2011-03-29T22:43:00.025-05:00

By Ross Forman

Brad Cain is an honest, hard-working, motivating friend of mine. Known worldwide by his alter-ego, Lodi, Brad is a pro wrestler who made a name for himself in World Championship Wrestling (WCW).

One of my favorite Brad stories dates back to January, 2009, when I was in Brad’s hometown – Charlotte, N.C. – for about a week in conjunction with a Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling show.

I went to Brad’s gym (shameless plug: http://www.yourflexappeal.com/) for a few workouts under his watchful eye.

I had, at that time, already run several marathons, and since Brad had not run any at that point (and still has not), I was quick to brag. Probably not a good move on my part.

Naturally, Brad abused me with some strenuous leg workouts. He also got me good with some upper-body workouts … and then the pushups.

Yep, the simple pushup. Brad told me to do 50 pushups at one point, so I dropped into position.

And did, oh, about five.

Brad laughed. He’s probably still laughing at the memory.

To this day, Brad hasn’t forgotten, and has reminded me way too often about my atrocious pushup performance.

Fast forward to New Years Day 2011, I started the Insanity workouts, run by Shaun T, as part of my training for the Tel Aviv Marathon on Friday morning, April 8. Insanity is cardio-based, with plenty of plyometrics, jumping, squatting … and pushups.

Yep, those damn pushups, again.

I’ve done more pushups in 2011 than at any time in my life, though that's my choice. I do them in Insanity workouts and also do them on my own. I focus on perfect form, and while I do the set number each Insanity workout, I also do varying numbers on my own – at Bally’s Total Fitness, in a hotel room while traveling, or at home.

I want to do 50 pushups in a row, with no stops, and most important, with perfect form. Might not happen today, or tomorrow, but soon, very soon – and Lodi then better carry a sign to his next match boasting my feat. And yes, the pushups help the running.

It’s now a matter of days before I head overseas for the Tel Aviv Marathon. I can’t wait. I’m super excited, even though I really know nothing about this marathon – the course route, the expected weather, the number of participants, etc. I haven’t seen much in English about this marathon, unfortunately.

But, I know I’m ready – Shaun T and Insanity made sure of that. Shaun T was my coach, of sorts, for Tel Aviv, and when I return to the U.S., I will begin coaching marathoners through the Team To End AIDS (T2) endurance-training program. I know it will be a difficult task for many T2 participants, but we will Dig Deeper all summer long while running along the lakefront in Chicago … and then rock it on race day!

Can’t wait to report from Tel Aviv … and do more pushups, believe it or not. Shalom!

Ross.

PS … If you want to know more about Insanity, P90X, Shakeology or any of the other Team Beachbody products, please visit my website: http://www.runwithross.com/.

PSS … And if you want to know my current favorite song, see below.

Next Stop: Tel Aviv

2011-03-18T01:56:00.009-05:00

By Ross Forman

I have a mix of emotions heading into the Tel Aviv Marathon on Friday morning, April 8, which will be my 11th marathon over about 3 ½ years. Let’s see:

* Excitement. Just the fact I’m traveling around the world for my next 26.2-mile journey has me super excited. It’s Lufthansa going via Frankfurt and LOT coming home via Warsaw. Sure, I’m not too thrilled with my flights, but hey, how bad can LOT’s business class truly be?! (United doesn’t fly from Chicago to Tel Aviv, or you can bet I’d be flying on United.)

* Optimism. I have a feeling that I will run a PR in Tel Aviv – that’s Personal Record to you non-runners. Just a hunch, but I’m feeling it, probably more than before any marathon. Credit goes to Shaun T and his Insanity workouts. You know, the high-intensity, seemingly-impossible workouts from the same people that produce the super-popular, always-on-TV P90X. I’ve been digging deeper with Shaun T daily in 2011. Yes, Insanity was part of my New Year’s Resolution – and I’ve stuck to it. It’s a 60-day cycle that I carried through relentlessly. My 60-days ended in early-March, yet I’m rockin’ Insanity for the next month or so en route to the starting line in Tel Aviv.

* Nervousness. Let’s face it, anytime you’re going to the Middle East, I think there are natural nerves.

* Prepared. This actually is an extension of Optimism. I’ve already run two races in 2011, and had great results in both. I set a PR at the ING Miami Half Marathon on Sunday, Jan. 30 – by more than 10 minutes over my previous best time over a 13.1-mile course. I also surpassed my rapid, pre-race goal for the 8.15-mile Great Aloha Run on Feb. 21, through the streets of Honolulu – by almost 4 minutes. Again, I’m giving credit for my running success this year to Shaun T. Losing weight, tightening up my core and a strict, healthy diet are the reasons for my running success so far in 2011. I’ve lightened the training for Tel Aviv, in terms of the number of training runs, but certainly not the amount of cardio and plyometric conditioning that I’ve done.

I will be coaching for the Team To End AIDS (T2) endurance-training program this summer, and was in St. Louis March 4-6, to attend the three-day, 22-hour USA Track & Field coaching certification course. I’m sure the training will help the T2 runners this summer – and also in case I decide to look for a job coaching the discus, pole vault, high jump, or any other track & field/cross-country activity. But I don’t see that happening. T2 training for the sold-out Bank of America Chicago Marathon (Oct. 9) kicks off April 30 – and, yes, you can still register for the Chicago Marathon through T2. I’m super excited!!

I also have joined the list of Coaches for Team Beachbody, thanks to my success with Insanity. Please check out my website, http://www.runwithross.com/ for full information. It’s great working with, and getting to know, so many other dedicated individuals through Team Beachbody, where success stories abound thanks to Insanity, P90X, Shakeology and the other motivating fitness formulas. Yes, they do work!! Give it a shot. You will be pleased; I know I am. And let me know how I can help you!

I’d love to tell you all about the Tel Aviv Marathon. In fact, I’d love to tell you, ugh, almost anything about this race beforehand. From the expected race-day weather to the course route. But that’s not going to happen. Sure, event organizers send out a regular e-newsletter, and it looks great. Problem is, it’s all in Hebrew. At least the photos look nice. Requests for an English version have not come yet. Suggestions for things to see and do in Tel Aviv?

That’s about it for now. Here’s hoping spring weather comes and stays. Bye-bye, winter!

Ross.

Miami: Half The Marathon, Not Half The Fun

2011-02-02T12:10:00.011-06:00

By Ross Forman

The more races I run, the more I know … that I never truly know what to expect on race-day.

Maybe that’s what keeps driving me back to the starting-line, among other reasons.

On Sunday morning, Jan. 30, I took to the streets of South Florida with about 21,000 of my closest friends for the 9th annual ING Miami Marathon & Half Marathon, of which I was only running the 13.1-mile version. I say “only” because this was my third Half Marathon ever, to go with 10 full 26.2-mile marathons – all 13 completed in just over three years, dating back to November, 2007.

I wasn’t too sure what to expect in Miami. Oh sure, it was only 13.1 miles in comparison to a marathon, but 13.1 miles is still a good distance, and 13.1 miles certainly can – and does – impact the body. First, I don’t run outdoors in the cold; just not my thing. And Chicago is cold nowadays, and has been for months. So training for this race – meaning, running – was limited to whatever I could do at Bally’s Total Fitness. And running was almost non-existent in January, though by choice.

Instead, my training in 2011 has been Insanity.

As in, Shaun T and the countless TV infomercials for crazy cardio and plyometric workouts, from the same people that bring you P90X.

I was skeptical at first, but I know Insanity and P90X work – I’ve seen the results, friends who have done one or the other, or both. So, I’ve spent January jogging, kicking, punching, jumping, doing pushups and more to strengthen my core.

I was committed to Insanity for 29 days, and on the 30th day of January, I ran my best race ever. Explain that?!?!?! I felt strong throughout, and great after. I even set a Personal Record (PR), beating my previous best Half Marathon time by almost 10 minutes.

I might have been happier at the end of the Miami race than any other race I’ve ever run. Talk about Lucky 13. Thanks Shaun T, Fran P, and Denny’s R. As in, Denny’s Restaurant. The night before the race, I opted for Denny’s $4 all-you-can-eat pancakes as my carb-of-choice since I’m not a pasta person. The pancakes seemed to do the trick; I felt great throughout the run.

Sure, I’ve felt great before other races, but then just had an OK showing on race-day. Miami was the opposite: I felt OK going in, great as the bling was placed around my neck.

Now it’s on to Tel Aviv. Well, in early-April to be exact, when I return to the full marathon route. I’m excited for the trip, especially after the Miami showing. In fact, my only real concerns for the Tel Aviv Marathon are the logistics – hotel, food, communication, and dare I even mention the normal fears of traveling to the Middle East, which now are heightened by the goings-on in Egypt. The running and training parts, those aren’t a concern, even in Chicago’s cold.

My running slate for 2011 post-Tel Aviv is a green-state, so to speak … still undecided. I definitely will be re-joining the great endurance-training program at Team To End AIDS (T2) this summer in a coaching role, and couldn’t be more excited to work with Katie, Dan and the others as we help runners achieve lifelong goals, and of course help support the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) in the process.

So, as I’ve said before, if you’re even remotely thinking about attempting a Half Marathon or Marathon, or running another, yes, you can do it, and should … and why not join T2 (http://www.t2ea.com/).

See you along the lakefront in Chicago, if it ever warms up,

Ross.

1st Stop in 2011: Tel Aviv

2011-01-06T17:54:00.015-06:00

By Ross Forman

The plan was Paris in the spring – for the 35th annual 2011 Paris Marathon.

So, on Thanksgiving Day 2010, I looked at the event’s website and thought, yes, that will be my next marathon. The following Wednesday, while at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, I got my airline ticket to Paris.

I was excited, but realized I needed to actually register for the event. So I went back online Dec. 2 – yet quickly learned that the Paris Marathon already had reached 37,000 entrants, thus, if I still wanted to participate, I had to do so through select travel agencies or charities.

Talk about a buzz kill.

I was back to square-one, where to run in the spring, since I didn’t want to go the travel agency or charity route.

I went back online, searching upcoming marathons, and the finalists were Barcelona, Madrid, Rome, Milano, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Seoul, Dallas, Atlanta and Los Angeles. Each was picked strictly on the date of their marathon and what I predicted my March-April would be like.

I was told to skip Seoul and Milano – not much to see there. So they were eliminated first.

I heard Jerusalem would be very hilly, an up and down course, so it then was eliminated.

Los Angeles was looking like it was the one, but LA’s $140 registration fee was too high, in my opinion.

I feared Dallas could be really hot, so no Big D for me.

I kept coming back, er, going back to the website for the Tel Aviv Marathon … and after my friend Robin Lee encouraged me, I finally pulled the plug.

I registered for the annual Tel Aviv Marathon on Friday, April 8. Yes, I did say Friday.

I’m really not sure what to expect in Tel Aviv. Heck, there’s a lot on the event’s website that I can’t even read. In fact, when organizers emailed my registration confirmation, everything was in Hebrew; the only thing I could read was my name. Good thing a local rabbi confirmed it was my confirmation.

One thing I do know for sure is, after I finish the Tel Aviv Marathon, I’ll be running, although no doubt slowly, to the beach. (Please, Mother Nature, cooperate with me.)

My 11th marathon will be in the Middle East. Wow, I never in my wildest imagination, ever thought I’d be saying that.

Then what?

Don’t know, but no doubt another in the fall, and then back to Honolulu for its race on Dec. 11, 2011.

Am very optimistic that 2011 will be my best, most memorable running year. And for anyone even remotely thinking about a marathon, yes, you can do it! Go for it, dig deep – I am! Hope you’re listening, or reading, Shaun T.

Until next time,
Ross.

Nothing Better ... Hot Chocolate & Pumpkin Pie

2010-11-08T16:59:00.013-06:00

By Ross Forman

When I got in my car this past Saturday morning, the thermometer said 29 degrees. Yes, a wee bit chilly, but perhaps fitting for a race called the Hot Chocolate 15K.

The temp rose into the 30s by start-time and, heck, three minutes before the start, the sun came out.

Chocolate always brings smiles!

Especially Ghirardelli Chocolate, which was the main sponsor for this annual run along the lakefront near Soldier Field. The Hot Chocolate 15K is best known for its sweet-looking brown (think chocolate) jackets given away to all entrants.

And I must confess, the main reason I registered was, for the jacket. Will admit, though, this year’s hooded jacket wasn’t as nice as past years, at least in my opinion.

As for the race, I used it as a training run for the Honolulu Marathon, which is next on my running slate – on Sunday, Dec. 12. And I changed my race-day strategy, oh, minutes before the start. I just figured, what the heck, I’m gonna try to run the 9.3-mile course a bit faster than I normally would for longer distances.

By the time I finished the Hot Chocolate 15K, about 90 minutes after starting, I was feeling good – and ready for the chocolate fondue dish, with apple and banana slices, pretzels, Rice Krispie treats and more, ready for dipping.

I also downed a cup for hot chocolate – with marshmallows, of course.

After running, and enjoying the chocolate, I raced back to the suburbs to officiate some hockey games. I worked eight games on Saturday and Sunday after the run.

My quads are feeling it, as always.

That leads me to Greater Than, which boasts to be The World’s Greatest Sports Drink, powered by coconut water. Give it a try – I have, others have and it’s good, well worth it.

I’ll go with Greater Than, Cytomax, Gatorade or even more chocolate to reach my goal in Honolulu which, thanks to two trips up Diamondhead, is a very difficult course. This is my third run at the Honolulu Marathon and am confident it will be my best. I’ll be running again with Dell, and I know he’s gonna push me to my Personal Record (PR) … even if he has to pull me. Dan, Richard and others from Chicago are also making the 4,200-mile trek to Hawaii for the
marathon, so that will be fun, and no doubt extra motivation.

Then what? Well, I’m not too sure what 2011 holds for this runner. (Much less 2012, thus my 'song of the month' selection below.) I decided that the Goofy Challenge, which consists of running a Half Marathon (13.1 miles) on Saturday and then a Full Marathon (26.2 miles) the next day in early-January in Orlando was just that, goofy. Or maybe I should just say stupid, crazy, and insane for me to have even thought about it. I’m not doing that, at least not now. Maybe someday, but not in 2011.

So instead I’m looking at spring marathons, or a Half, though not sure where. Perhaps Paris. France, that is. Not the booming metropolis of Paris, Illinois. Yeah, there really is a Paris in Illinois, located in the middle of the state along the Indiana border.

Hope everyone, including my best bud Chuckie, has a pumpkin pie-filled Thanksgiving … with some chocolate, too, of course.

Ross.

Who's Next? Long Beach!

2010-10-01T19:18:00.007-05:00

By Ross Forman

How fitting, my next marathon is Sunday, Oct. 17: the International City Bank Long Beach Marathon, and the Starting Line is, oh, about an hour northwest of the home of my good friend Bill Goldberg.

Yeah, he’s simply Goldberg to his loyal legion of worldwide wrestling fans; that one.

Goldberg (shown to the right with my good buddy, Chuckie) has long run with the motto Less Is More, and what a perfect slogan for me for this marathon.

The Long Beach Marathon will be my ninth marathon over the past three years, and as I also did for the Vancouver Marathon last May, I have cut down the number of training runs in advance of Race Day. This is a planned approach, with extra time instead spent riding the bicycle at Bally’s Total Fitness, as opposed to grinding out mile after mile in my Brooks running shoes. No doubt my knees are screaming, “Thanks!!” This version of “less is more” might not work for everyone, but it seems to work for me – Vancouver was my second-best and only two minutes behind my Personal Record.

Second, I head to Long Beach with less baggage, so to speak. I’ve dropped weight, intentionally, over the past few months. Close friends have noticed. So have casual friends. Now I want to see how fewer pounds translate over the 26.2-mile journey, and I’m confident this version of “less is more” definitely should help.

I thought about doing my 20-mile training run for Long Beach on Saturday, Sept. 18, but, since that would be my last long run, I changed my course, so to speak, since I thought a month out was too long before Race Day.

Then the plan was for Saturday morning, Sept. 26, but I was sick for a few days before that, so that killed the 26th.

So, my final long run before Long Beach will be two weeks before Race Day – and that’s the exact strategy (timing and mileage) that my friend Dell in Honolulu incorporates, and he’s been running the Honolulu Marathon for 23 consecutive years.

I’m excited for Long Beach and then the Honolulu Marathon on Sunday, Dec. 12. I’m just not excited for the cool, and soon-to-be cold temperatures that I’ll battle in Chicago. Bally’s will see me more and more as the temperatures drop. Sorry, I don’t do outdoor running in the cold.

I did, though, register for the Hot Chocolate 15K on Saturday, Nov. 6, held in Chicago. Can I, or should I, start my complaining now? I know I’ll be miserable running outside that day. But, several friends also are doing it, too, and the race boasts, “The Best Goodie Bag In The Country,” including a sweet-looking chocolate brown technical zip-up runner's jacket to keep warm on race day. No doubt I’ll wear it!

I’m still undecided on the Goofy Challenge for January, which is a Half Marathon (13.1 miles) on Saturday and then a Full Marathon (26.2 miles) on Sunday. Yes, that’s back-to-back days. Sounds insane, sounds stupid, sound like something I shouldn’t even consider. But I am. I need to make a decision on this one soon.

Best wishes to all running the Chicago Marathon on 10-10-10. I’ll be in Daytona Beach that day, but my thoughts will be running with you.

Ross.

PS … I will be flying to the Long Beach Marathon on United Airlines, of course – Chicago O’Hare International Airport non-stop to Los Angeles. And I’m proud to say, check out United’s in-flight magazine, Hemispheres, in October. The last page, to be specific.

PSS ... In tribute to the Long Beach Marathon, check out my current favorite song below.

Next Stop: Long Beach (and Math Class)

2010-08-26T17:35:00.018-05:00

By Ross Forman

I went for a 16-mile training run this past Saturday morning; however, by the time I finished running and got back to my car, my high-tech Garmin watch with GPS informed that I had run 18 miles.

So much for my math skills.

I started running north from about Irving Park Road along Chicago’s lakefront, ultimately turning around and heading south while on the Loyola University campus. I then proceeded past Michigan Avenue.

I don’t know how, but I somehow miscalculated where, while running south-bound, I should turn around. Oh well, the added miles were fine, no major issue. The two extra miles gave me more time to brainstorm my plans for the upcoming week, one of my favorite running traditions. I also got the chance to see a lot of friends on the lakefront, including Rob, Otis, Katie, David, Richard, Dan and others.

I feel good heading into my next marathon – the 2010 Long Beach International City Bank Marathon on Sunday, Oct. 17.

Yep, after much debate and consideration, Long Beach won out for my next 26.2-mile journey over marathons in Albuquerque and Toronto, also scheduled for the third Sunday in October. Here’s hoping this Southern California marathon truly offers incredible views of the city’s coastline and historical landmarks, as the event’s website boasts. Not to mention spectacular oceanfront vistas, charming seaside communities, and the metropolitan start and finish, with 80 percent of the course on or within sight of the ocean.

Most important, when I hit Shoreline Drive for the slight downhill finish directly across from the Marina Green Beach Party Finish Line Festival, I want to know it will be my best marathon time. This will be my ninth marathon in just under three years, and I really want it to be a Personal Record (PR).

That’s the goal for Long Beach.

Long Beach will be followed by the Honolulu Marathon on Sunday, Dec. 12, and that will be Marathon No. 10. And I still can’t believe I’m saying that. Honolulu, as its been the past two years, will be an up-and-down journey with Dell while dealing with the drama that is Diamondhead. I’m glad friends from Chicago and Los Angeles also will be running in Honolulu, so post-event certainly will be entertaining.

Yes, the running is still enjoyable. The challenge is always there. But how much longer will I run marathons? That’s the $26.2 million question.

Part of me says it’s time to hang up the Brooks shoes after the 2010 Honolulu Marathon because I’ll be at a perfect 10 marathons completed. And if the folks at the Team 2 End AIDS endurance training program are looking for a coach, assistant coach or motivational speaker for 2011, well, I think they know my cell phone number.

But then there’s the devil in me that’s considering two final challenges.

The first is in January, 2011. It’s the Goofy Challenge in Orlando, Fla., where you run a Half Marathon (13.1 miles) on Saturday, then a Full Marathon (26.2) the next day. For some insane reason, this event has crossed my mind, and just as shocking, it’s still being considered.

If I do the Goofy Challenge, that would be 11 marathons, and I couldn’t call it quits at that point; 11 is an odd number. So I’m considering the Paris Marathon next April. That, of course, is Paris, France – not Paris, Illinois. I think Paris would be a great way, in a great city and with a great number (12) to end my marathon running career.

At least until I talk with Brett Favre; who knows what he’ll tell me to do next fall. In the meantime, enjoy my current favorite song. (See below.)

Happy trails,

Ross.

The Feat...and Feet

2010-06-14T19:48:00.020-05:00

By Ross Forman

(June 21, 2010)

Let's hear it for The Feat - and I do mean feat, not feet, which seems more fitting for a Marathon Journal.

I have to start things off with a salute to the Chicago Blackhawks, the 2010 Stanley Cup champions! As a lifelong Blackhawks fan, I couldn’t be happier.

Kudos to Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp, Coach Joel Quenneville and the rest of Chicago’s first Stanley Cup championship team in 49 years.

Now can we repeat the feat in 2011?!

When the next NHL regular-season starts in October, I will be on the home stretch for my next marathon, which I will run in mid-October.

The question is, where?

I have the list narrowed down to about 10 marathons, and am still debating which one to choose. Let’s see, the finalists include marathons in Kansas City, Baltimore, Indianapolis, Grand Rapids and Boise. Yet the leading candidates are Long Beach, Toronto and Albuquerque.

I pick one city, and then re-consider another.

Am tempted to just throw all the names in a hat and pick out the winner.

I just hope I stick with that one.

My last marathon was May 2, in Vancouver, B.C., and it was, perhaps, my best. I finished two minutes behind my Personal Record (PR), set at the 2009 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, but felt good throughout, and after.

But after the Vancouver Marathon was when disaster struck, so to speak.

The afternoon of the Vancouver Marathon, I had to drive to Seattle for an overnight flight to Washington, D.C., and then another down to Orlando. (Of course, I called United Airlines from Vancouver and asked about flying, instead, from Vancouver to Orlando. They said it’d be about $250 to change, so I stuck with my original plan, regrettably.)

The flight from Seattle was delayed about 50 minutes so, when I landed in Washington, D.C., I was sure I’d make my connecting flight, but my luggage wouldn’t. But, as I sat in seat 2D, I was thrilled to watch my bags being loaded onto the Orlando-bound flight.

Sadly, that was the last I saw of my luggage. Somehow, my luggage wasn’t on the carousel when I got there.

And when the United agent in Orlando told me that the same thing happened a day earlier on the exact same flight – a customer’s bags show scanned in Orlando, but were no where to be found – we both knew it was time to get the local police involved.

My bags have still not been found.

So, when I start the grind for my next marathon – wherever it will be – I will be wearing new clothes and new Brooks shoes.

On May 22, I ran a 5K race in suburban Chicago, marking my first race ever of that distance. It was a fund-raiser for Save-A-Pet, the former home of my buddy “Chuckie,” who ironically shares his birthday that day with my Mom. The course went through a local forest preserve and featured runners, walkers and plenty of four-legged friends along the way. It was a fun little run.

Send me your suggestions for my next marathon, please. And if you come across my sweaty, smelly clothes from the Vancouver Marathon …

Ross.

My RUN In Professional Wrestling

2010-03-16T11:58:00.014-05:00

By Ross Forman

I’ve met some amazing people over the years through my run (no pun intended) in professional wrestling. Let’s see:

- The wrestlers and broadcasters are truly an intriguing bunch and I’m proud to say some are my closest friends. Kevin Nash, Jeff Jarrett, Bill Goldberg, Mike Tenay, Lodi, Sonjay Dutt and others.

- The front-office staff at TNA Wrestling (my current wrestling federation) is a great bunch, led by Dixie Carter (not the Designing Woman), who is motivating and driven.

- The fans are truly an amazing, dedicated bunch. Such as Jackie, Ben and the crew in South Florida; David and Mark, twins in Chicago; Jeanne and her son in New York; celebrities from all major sports and the entertainment industry; and so many others. Especially Craig Majorki and his family in Vancouver.

I first met Craig and his sister, Andrea, in Indianapolis before WrestleMania VII in 1992.

Craig has Klippel, Trenary, Weber Syndrome: a rare combination of tumors. I actually didn’t know what Craig’s exact ailment was until recently; I just knew him and his family as a nice, kind, polite, caring group.

In 1990, Craig had an extremely risky, very delicate and extensive operation. After the operation, he grew weaker and weaker while trying to recover in the hospital. That’s where the Help Fill A Dream Foundation came into the picture a la the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Canada-based Help Fill A Dream granted Craig’s wish: to meet Hulk Hogan in Indianapolis.

“His wish came true and resulted in turning Craig’s life around for the better,” said Craig’s dad, Steve.

Craig’s condition sharply impedes his balance and his ability to walk or run for any length of time. But his friendship over the years is rock solid.

So, on May 2, I am taking to the streets of Vancouver – in his hometown – for the annual BMO Vancounver Marathon. It will be my eighth marathon in a 2 ½-year span, and I’m running the 26.2-mile journey for Craig.

I know Craig and his family will be out on the course, cheering and no doubt taking pictures. I’ll be the one grinding it out for, hopefully, a Personal Record (PR), wearing a black, sleeveless shirt with LIVESTRONG printed in yellow across the front, though I am tempted to wear a TNA Wrestling shirt (hint hint, Serg) because it’s through pro wrestling that I have some good friends in Vancouver.

Ross.

Las Cruces Sun-News - In lasting memory: Forman to run in El Paso Marathon to honor former Oñate football coach Tom Essex

2010-03-04T13:15:00.005-06:00

by Teddy Feinberg

LAS CRUCES — Ross Forman's first job out of college was as a sports writer for the Sun-News in 1989.

Forman moved to southern New Mexico as a graduate of Indiana University, in Bloomington. He was a stranger in a foreign town, working to make inroads in a new career.

It was at that point that he met Tom Essex, the head football coach at Oñate High School. - More -

Motivation

2010-02-10T23:50:00.013-06:00

(Wednesday, Feb. 10, in Chicago, with 15 inches of new snow today.)
By Ross Forman

Sometimes I wish I had a full-time running coach, kind of a personal trainer for running.

Sure, Katie is a great running coach and I get tips from others too, but lately I feel like I could use one of those yelling, screaming, motivating coaches. Like coaches I had during my hockey playing days.

Everyone knows those coaches; they rant and rave, yet ultimately it’s done for the best of the team.

Thing is, I’ve kind of hit a funk in my running the past couple weeks – winter weather will do that to you. Or certainly does it to me. I have yelled, ‘Enough with the snow’ and ‘Bring on spring already’ several times of late.

I don’t run outside in blizzards (as I've endured lately) or when it’s been even moderately cold (as it’s been for the past month-plus).

I could use some running motivation today, perhaps from Herb Brooks or Tom Essex.

I will be running a Half Marathon (13.1 miles) on Sunday, March 7 in El Paso, Texas, in honor of Coach Essex, a former prep football coach in New Mexico and Texas, who passed away in January, 2009. This will be the first race I’ve run in honor of anyone in particular – and I can’t imagine anyone more deserving.

I befriended Coach and his family (wife Cheryl and daughter Heather) while working in Las Cruces, N.M. He was the head football coach at one of the city’s high schools and I was a cub reporter, covering his team and more, fresh out of Indiana University.

Cheryl emailed me the other day: “To run in the El Paso Marathon in memory of Tommy is so special I can’t begin to tell you how much that means to Heather and me.”

While running in El Paso, I will be wearing a special orange bracelet that was given to Cheryl by one of Coach’s football players/track hurdlers from Alice, Texas. All of the Alice track/football players have worn similar bracelets.

El Paso is for Coach and also a training run for me for the BMO Vancouver Marathon on Sunday, May 2. Can’t wait to see Craig and his family in Vancouver, as well as Jen and my other Canuck friends.

I officiated a hockey game the other day and the other referee said he too is now training for an upcoming Half Marathon, his first ever, and he still runs outside in Chicago. But I don’t. Bally’s works for me in the winter, though it’s been tough getting motivated to run on a treadmill of late.

I can’t wait to go to Orlando, Fla., on Monday, Feb. 15, as I’ll get a few days of outdoor training.

Anyone have any motivation tips? I’m listening, just don’t yell. For now, I’ll rely on Kurt Russell as coach Herb Brooks in one of my all-time favorite movies, "Miracle"… and let's bring home the Gold from Vancouver!

Ross.

Winter

2010-01-08T13:55:00.014-06:00

(Jan. 8, 2010 … the temperature is 21 degrees and the Winter Storm Warning just ended, but there’s at least 12 inches of new, fresh, fluffy snow here in Chicago) –

By Ross Forman

I’m actually not sure where to start this first column of 2010 – and that’s not a good thing for someone who writes for a living. There are so many subjects to discuss. Let’s see …

* For some insane reason, mainly to write a first-person newspaper story and, of course, forever be able to claim ‘I did it,’ I was going to participate in the annual Polar Bear Plunge into Lake Michigan on Jan. 1. But, when I woke up that Friday morning, I saw the temperature was 3 degrees. I opted against the plunge and, instead, plopped down in front of the TV to watch the NHL’s Winter Classic. I’m thrilled with my decision.

* TNA Wrestling had a record-setting Monday, Jan. 4, with a live, three-hour special on Spike TV. Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair made their TNA debut, and several other stars also appeared, including Scott Hall, Jeff Hardy and Eric Bischoff, among others. And my brother, Edward, was watching. I actually was shocked to know he was watching, and he didn’t flip channels for most of the show, based on the text messages I received from him.

* I get it, Mother Nature … You win! Now let’s go back to normal conditions – if not in Chicago at this time of the year, certainly in Florida. I just returned from Orlando, where it was … cold. You won’t hear me complain next August that it’s too hot and humid; I’ll take that any day over winter. I didn’t even run outside in Orlando this week since I only had shorts and a t-shirt with me, and I didn’t think that’d be enough to keep me warm for 6 miles, as I had planned to run on Jan. 3. Now I’m starting my official training on Saturday, Jan. 9, a few days past when I had planned – and I’ll be doing it indoors on a treadmill at a Bally’s Total Fitness here in Chicago.

* Congratulations to Max Hamrick for running 100 miles for charity. Here’s the link to a great story about Max, if I say so myself: http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=349000 … My Illinois High School Hockey column appears every Thursday in the Daily Herald (http://www.dailyherald.com/).

* Looks like the Paris Marathon on Sunday, April 11, is going to be replaced on my running calendar due to my commitments to TNA Wrestling and a major TNA pay-per-view (“Lockdown”) on Sunday, April 18. So, as I sat at dinner yesterday, I had a print out of most North American marathons between mid-March and mid-July. With a blue Sharpie pen, I put a dot next to those races that even remotely interested in. The list included marathons in Kenosha, Wisc.; Cincinnati, Ohio;

Providence, R.I.; Newport Beach, Calif.; Reno, Nev.; Boise, Idaho; Cleveland, Ohio; Green Bay, Wisc.; Rockford, Ill.; Spokane, Wash.; Fargo, N.D.; and Calgary, Alb., among others. I narrowed it down to two: the 10th annual Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on April 25 and the 39th annual BMO Vancouver Marathon on Sunday, May 2. Now I must decide … what do you think? Let me know. I’ll have my decision here soon, but I’m looking for my passport!

All the best,
Ross.

Happy Running in 2010!

2009-12-28T00:05:00.015-06:00

By Ross Forman

(Dec. 28, 2009, in Buffalo Grove, Ill.)

I cussed out a runner this past weekend.

There, I said it; I’ll admit it.

Sure, it’s the holiday season, so I probably shouldn’t have, but running on the street in snowy conditions is not very smart … unless you want to get hit by a car.

I don’t like to run outdoors in the cold weather. The folks at Bally’s Total Fitness see me on the treadmill a lot more often once the thermometer drops below 50 degrees. And when it’s snowy, forget it, there’s absolutely no chance I’m running outside.

I just wish the runner I saw (and cussed at, though quietly) on Saturday, when we were getting hit with about 10 inches of snow in the northern suburbs of Chicago, was not running outside.

Running on the treadmill is boring; that’s for sure. But it’s a lot safer than avoiding out-of-control cars that seem to be taken over by Mother Nature.

Enough about that; let’s switch to Father Time. I can’t believe 2009 is over. Heck the first decade of the 21st Century is over. Wow, where’d the time go?! Wasn’t it just yesterday that we were all scared of what in the world would happen on the technology-front when the calendar switched from 1999 to 2000. I’ll even admit that, in late-1999, I chose to spend the New Year in Chicago – not Honolulu, where I had for several previous years – just because of that fear.

I ran three Marathons, my first two Half Marathons and a 9.5-mile race in 2009. That’s now seven marathons in just over two years – and I had my two best times ever in 2009. At the Bank Of America Chicago Marathon in October and then two months later at the Honolulu Marathon.

Now it’s time to start planning for 2010 – on the running front, that is.

My good friend Lodi, of World Championship Wrestling (WCW) fame, is going to run his first-ever Half Marathon in April. He’ll do great because no one is more dedicated to physical fitness than Lodi. And I’m sure Brandon in San Francisco will rock his first-ever Half Marathon in February, just as Dan will conquer the 26.2-mile course at the London Marathon in April.

I know many of my running friends will be on the trails again, including Richard, Dell, Katie, Hector, Ryan, Aaron, Rob and others.

What about me? Well, the last couple weeks of December have annually been my break-time. (Sure, that’s not a lot of time, but that’s how I go.) As the calendar rolls in January, I resume my training.

First goal: the El Paso Half Marathon on Sunday, March 7.

Second goal: the Paris Marathon on Sunday, April 11.

My first job after graduating from Indiana University was as a sportswriter in Las Cruces, N.M., which is where I met Cheryl & Tom Essex. Coach, as he was known, was the head football coach at Onate High School, one of three schools in the city and the main school I wrote about. I’ll never forget the friendship I developed with Coach (and his family). Even after I moved away from Las Cruces, we stayed in contact, always laughing at memories, stories, tales and, of course, talking football.

Coach died Jan. 8, 2009, so I’m running the El Paso Half Marathon for him. I’m sure his reaction would be, ‘What in the hell are you running that far for?’

Well Coach, I’m doing it in 2010 for you.

Why Paris? Why not Paris! It’s a beautiful city, great event and it’s a perfect fit on my running calendar.

I know there will be more races in 2010, and over the next few weeks, I’m gonna pencil them in. I just had to get my first goal/resolution (a Personal Record in Paris) on the 2010 slate before Ryan Seacrest and Dick Clark do their thing in New York City.

Best wishes for a healthy & Happy New Year. And while I’m mentioning the word ‘healthy,’ I strongly endorse Kool ‘N Fit Sport, a conditioning fluid that I discovered at the Honolulu Marathon. It’s not a gimmick – it works!

Happy running in 2010,

Ross.

Next Stop: Honolulu

2009-12-11T00:01:00.007-06:00

By Ross Forman

This whole Global Warming thing is now really getting under my skin.

When I ran the Bank Of America Chicago Marathon on Oct. 11, the temperature at start-time was 33 degrees. Jump ahead to the inaugural Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon in Las Vegas on Dec. 6, and the temperature when this event started near Mandalay Bay on The Strip was also in the mid-30s – and Vegas actually felt colder than Chicago.

Now, as I’m writing this, the thermometer here in Chicago reads 3 degrees. Well, at least that’s expected.

I’m a little nervous for this upcoming Sunday, Dec. 13, when I step to the starting line at the annual Honolulu Marathon … will be it be nice weather, or super hot, or rainy (like last year’s Honolulu Marathon), or, heck, is it gonna be frozen there, too?

Work with me a little, Mother Nature, please.

The Las Vegas Marathon was good, very well organized. It attracted about 25,000 runners from around the world with about 18,000 of them – me included – running the Half Marathon (13.1 miles). I ran with Darryn and John, and though Darryn didn’t set a Personal Record (PR), he finished with a good time. And I was pretty happy with my, ugh, coaching/pacing debut. Next time, though, I will have to yell at Darryn to push it since he finished about a minute past his PR.

The post-race meal was the buffet at the Paris Hotel. The food was OK and, obviously, plentiful, but those buffets are just not for me.

The Honolulu Marathon will be another 26.2-mile journey with my good friend Dell, who will be running the event for the 21st consecutive year. This is my second Honolulu Marathon and, provided it doesn’t get too hot, I think I will set a PR. Dell knows the goal and, unlike the way I coached Darryn, I’m sure he will yell at me to push it for the PR.

I can’t wait.

I’m not sure of the running slate for 2010. That doesn’t need to be decided until New Year’s Eve. I’m just one of those people who, come Jan. 1, will want to start, er, resume my training for a spring-time marathon. And I’ll probably mix in a few Half Marathons along the way. Am thinking about two Half Marathons in early-2010 in Texas: Austin in February or El Paso in March.

Suggestions for 2010 runs? I’m listening.

And please don’t mention a triathlon. I’ve already been given that challenge, but have politely rejected it, at least so far.

Hope everyone has a great holiday season and terrific 2010. If you’ve ever even remotely thought about running a marathon, make it a resolution for 2010. You can do it! As I’ve said literally hundreds of time, I NEVER, EVER thought in my wildest imagination that I would be able to finish a marathon.

And yet the Honolulu Marathon on Sunday, Dec. 13, will be my seventh in just over two years. Yep, I first ran the Florence (Italy) Marathon on Sunday, Nov. 25, 2007. So it’s seven marathons over 749 days – and I feel great.

Best wishes,

Ross.

Viva Las Vegas ... Aloha Honolulu

2009-11-25T18:06:00.034-06:00

By Ross Forman

En route to the Honolulu Marathon, I am stopping in Las Vegas – to run a Half Marathon.

Relax, I’m not as crazy as this may sound. Let me explain …

I have had the Honolulu Marathon (Sunday, Dec. 13) on my running calendar for a year, since I finished the same marathon in 2008. I knew then that I wanted to return to Hawaii for another crack at this scenic, yet challenging 26.2-mile course. So I registered early, booked my United Airlines flight and, well, I was all set.

Then my buddy Darryn asked if I would run with him, at his pace, in the Las Vegas Half Marathon on Sunday, Dec. 6. Darryn is one of the coaches from the National AIDS Marathon Training Program, now known as the Train 2 End AIDS (T2) Endurance Training Program, and he’s a “bigger guy” ( I hope that’s the PC term these days). He’s not the stereotypical 135-pound runner, the type of runner who you’d just expect to be a runner. But that’s why Darryn is motivating to me and others, for the simple theory of, “If he can run a marathon, I can run one, too.”

Darryn’s previous best time in a Half Marathon is 3:12. He wants to break 3 hours in Vegas.

I’ve told him we’re finishing in 2:58.

I hope he knows I’m serious.

The Vegas run will be at a much slower pace than I’m used to, which is why I’m doing it a week before Honolulu.

And in Honolulu, I know my friend Dell is going to be pushing me to set a PR (Personal Record) the same way I’m pushing Darryn in Vegas.

This is how we runners work.

My last long training run for Honolulu was a 16-miler along the lakefront in Chicago on Saturday morning, Nov. 21, with Coach Katie and Coach Dan. It was a reunion of sorts as the three of us ran together in the Nashville Marathon in 2008.

Yes, I did run outside in Chicago on Nov. 21 as, shockingly, Mother Nature co-operated big time. It was in the mid-50s. Talk about perfect running weather.

I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving, filled with lots of turkey and my favorite: pumpkin pie.

Thanksgiving weekend means just one thing for me, and has for years: hockey.

I’ll be officiating high school hockey games all weekend, including the championship game of the 6th annual Stevenson Thanksgiving Tournament, which will be played at the Twin Rinks Ice Pavilion in Buffalo Grove. I was honored to be selected to work the Sunday afternoon championship game. This is the first time I’ll be on the ice for the championship game of this tournament. Last Thanksgiving, I officiated the championship game of the annual Loyola Thanksgiving Tournament, which is now in its 38th year.

I’ve been officiating a lot in November, and I’m pretty sure the skating helps my running and the running helps my skating … at least I think so.

Happy Thanksgiving to all,
Ross.

P.S. Just a reminder, Darryn: 2:58.

Chicago Marathon: Cold Hands, Warm Heart

2009-10-12T20:37:00.024-05:00

By Ross Forman

(Sunday, October 11, in Chicago)

The 32^nd annual Chicago Marathon was a case of good news, bad news for me as I was running in my sixth marathon in less than two years.

Scratch that, the Chicago Marathon was alllll good.

I had a time goal and was on pace until about Mile 23 or 24. I ultimately missed by pre-race goal by 7 minutes, so for a split second as I wrote this, I was bummed. But still, I set a PR by about 15 minutes. Meaning, it was my best marathon time of the six I’ve run.

It also was the coldest.

The temperature when the race kicked off at 7:30 a.m., was 33 degrees. The thermometer eventually hit the low-50s and the sun shined. Sure, ideal running weather, but cold nonetheless.

My finger tips were numb for about three-quarters of the race, and even for an hour or so after crossing the finish line. So much for the snazzy black cotton gloves that I bought for $10 at the Chicago Marathon Health & Fitness Expo, held Friday and Saturday at the McCormick Place Convention Center.

The Chicago Marathon was everything I hoped it would be, a weekend-long spectacle that I never will forget. Just consider:

- 19,444 registered female runners.

- 25,056 registered male runners.

- 34,792 started.

- 33,411 finished.

- There were 291 runners from Brazil – and I had to laugh at the fan, who was serving as a DJ in his area on the course, who broadcast, “Don’t trip the Brazilian; it wasn’t his fault that we lost the (2016) Olympics.”

- Among the countries with one entrant were: Albania, Bangladesh, Egypt, Gabon, Fiji, Jordan, Namibia, Qatar, Sri Lanka and Vietnam.

- 114 countries were represented, for 6,232 runners.

- Following Illinois, the most domestic runners were from Michigan, Indiana and Wisconsin. The fewest came from Hawaii, North Dakota and Wyoming (21 each).

I had an emotional, spirited Pasta Party on Friday night with the entourage from the National AIDS Marathon Training Program, held at a church located at Mile 14 on the course.

Saturday was a pasta dinner at Rob’s for my marathon group of 5, along with some family and friends. Then it was an early bed-time at the Chicago Hilton, located steps away from the Starting Line.

Come Sunday, I knew I was running solo since Chuck, David and Ernie opted for a different pace. No worries, I thought, since I train so much year-round by myself, so, I knew running the marathon by myself wouldn’t be a problem. Good thing for the iPod and the estimated 1.5 million fans who spanned the course in support of those of us willing to run 26.2 miles on a Sunday morning.

Including my dad, who I spotted at Mile 4, then Aunt Linda and Bob at about Mile 10.

What and who else did I see on my 26.2 mile journey? Let’s see …

- Signs featuring Hulk Hogan and Susan Boyle, among others.

- Cups of beer offered to runners at about Mile 20. I did not indulge.

- Music in Pilsen that was incredibly loud.

- Runners in New Mexico shirts, so I had to wonder if they were from Las Cruces, my old stomping grounds.

- Two sets of female-impersonating cheerleaders along Broadway in Lakeview.

- The United Center and U.S. Cellular Field.

- The water was ice-cold; it tasted great.

- I ran with Yurbuds earphones (http://www.yurbuds.com/) which I purchased at the Expo. I’d give ‘em a grade of a ‘C.’ Though company COO Richard Daniels gives a great presentation and I do think they work, they just didn’t Sunday for me. First, I wasn’t certain exactly how to get the fitted rubbery piece onto the ear-phone and ultimately I had trouble with the left one; I now know how to use them and look forward to using them in the future.

- Dan spotted me at about Mile 22 and ran with me for 5 or 10 minutes. I needed his encouragement at that point; that helped.

- I urinated only once, next to a tree near Mile 17 and not far from a female squatting behind a bush.

- Ryan was supposed to have Rice Krispie treats for me after the marathon. He didn’t, but hopefully because he ate all of them himself after finishing in under 3:30. Congrats, Ryan.

- Congratulations to everyone else who finished, including Joe and Carlos, and of course Rob (sub-4), David (his first), Ernie (nailing his goal time, 4:59) and Chuck. And don’t worry, Chuck, you won’t hear that I beat you by more than 30 minutes for two years, as we’ve been hearing it from you.

I’ve said it before and will say it again, running a marathon isn’t for everyone. But everyone can do one, and should. I’m a strong supporter of the National AIDS Marathon Training Program. Chicagoans definitely should give it a run – great program, exceptional coaches and a worthwhile cause.

Next up for me on the Marathon trail: the 37th annual

Honolulu Marathon on Sunday, Dec. 13. I know there won’t be any talk of cold temps at that race.

Thanks for your support,
Ross.

Chicago Marathon: It's Race Day!

2009-10-11T02:24:00.001-05:00

The day I've been waiting for has finally come - the day of the Chicago Marathon! I will post a new entry here soon with all the highlights. Wish me luck!

The Road Warrior ... Talking Road Trips, Marathons & Food-Fests

2009-10-05T17:42:00.037-05:00

By Ross Forman

When I worked for World Championship Wrestling (WCW), we had this tradition called the Monday Night Food-Fest, though it often extended into the wee hours of Tuesday. And it almost always included Twizzlers, Reese’s, Pop-Tarts and, well, plenty of other junk-food delicacies. Calories were never an obstacle.

Kevin Nash was driving the rented Cadillac the vast majority of the time as we drove to the next city, or quite often back to Atlanta, following WCW Monday Nitro. We spent countless hours on the road, telling stories, telling tales of what we’d do if we won that week’s multi-million dollar lottery, listening to rap music, quizzing each other about some of the most obscure sports trivia … and eating junk food.

OK, Kevin usually just wanted cashews and an ice-cold Coors Light, but I ate just about anything and everything.

I think Monday, Oct. 12 will be my next official Monday Night

Food-Fest. Or maybe I’ll wait until Sunday, Oct. 18, if Kevin and Mandy from Tristar Productions – since the three of us will be together in Southern California – are willing to indulge in some high-calorie desserts like the old days.

The annual Bank of America Chicago is Sunday, Oct. 11, and I’m super excited for my sixth-ever marathon. Yep, this is my first time running the Chicago Marathon, but my sixth time lacing up my Brooks Beast shoes for the 26.2-mile journey – and my fourth marathon as part of the National AIDS Marathon Training Program. My first marathon was in Florence, Italy, on the Sunday after

Thanksgiving, 2007. And for those scoring at home, here’s the break-down since that first marathon on Nov. 25, 2007, right up through

Oct. 11, 2009.

- 687 days.

- 1 year, 10 months, 17 days.
- 59,356,800 seconds.
- 989,280 minutes.
- 16,488 hours.
- 98 weeks (rounded down)

I have a time goal for the Chicago Marathon, but really am not too concerned if I hit it. I think I can, though. I really feel strong and have had good runs over the past couple months. I ran 6 miles on Saturday, Oct. 3, along my normal part-residential, part-industrial route through

Buffalo Grove. I finished strong, which has been my standard practice over the past few months, at least as much as possible.

I’ll probably start the Chicago Marathon with Chuck, David, Ernie and Rob. Who knows when we’ll all finish. But we will finish. That’s second-most important on the marathon slate, behind our health.

The five of us have run hundreds of miles in training, as have the other 45,000 marathoners.

Yep, I’ll be running the streets of Chicago with some 45,000 of my closest friends, while thousands of others will stand along the course cheering. They also will be dispensing water and Gatorade. Or in bands. Or in cheer groups.

The Chicago Marathon is a spectacle; that’s why I’m really looking forward to it.

I’ve done the training, and with five marathons under my belt already, the nerves are somewhat gone. This time, I really want to have fun, enjoy and experience everything that is the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. I got a text today asking if I was going to run with a camera. I’m sure the sender was joking, at least I think she was. I’m not going to have one with me, though kind of wish I did.

I’m not sure what my first big post-marathon meal is going to be. After the San Diego Marathon in late-May, I had a steak and mashed potatoes, certainly nothing Jenny Craig would yell at me for.

Next Sunday night, believe it or not, I’m flying from Chicago O’Hare to John Wayne Airport in Orange County, Calif., in preparation for “Bound For Glory” from Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling on Sunday, Oct. 18. I really hope I can get a first-class aisle seat on my United Airlines flight, and hopefully my main post-marathon meal is not catered by United. (Sorry, United.)

That’s why I’m thinking about indulging in a Monday Food-Fest on Oct. 12, or maybe I’ll wait till Nash comes to California … for old-time sakes.

The Chicago Marathon is my major fund-raiser for 2009 to support the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Please consider donating to support this worthwhile cause as I push my body on yet another 26.2-mile grind – my 6th marathon in less than two years. Click here to donate and all tax-deductible contributions are sincerely appreciated.

Thanks,
Ross.

Chuckie is going to sit this marathon out. Maybe next time.... But it's good to see that he's already enjoying pumpkin season!

A Run For "Sweetness"

2009-09-13T01:07:00.007-05:00

By Ross Forman

(Sept. 12, in Arlington Heights, Illinois) – Walter Payton is my all-time favorite football player, so running the 6th annual Walter Payton Run today was an honor, emotional and certainly a run down Memory Lane.

The 16,726-yard race equals Payton’s career rushing total for the Chicago Bears, which equates to 9.5 miles. The event is a fund-raiser for the Walter Payton Cancer Fund, and it also features a 5K Run/Walk and a 3-person 9.5 mile relay.

I ran the 9.5 mile race and though I did not know any other runners, nor did I run with anyone else, I still had a great time.

Especially since I finished with a great time, and, about 45 minutes after crossing the finish-time, it was announced to the hundreds of runners and supporters milling around that I finished in 3rd place in my division.

Event organizers then took my photo alongside Connie Payton, his former wife. That was pretty cool and, yes, I did have a tear in my eye.

Let’s jump back a week, to Sept. 5. I was doing a 10-mile training run in preparation for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, Oct. 11. As I was about to start, I figured I would instead go 9.5 miles, to see what time I could possibly do in the Walter Payton Run. My goal was 1:40 which I wasn’t sure I could hit. I was just planning to run normally since, ultimately, this was just a training run.

My time on Sept. 5 was: 1:40.12.

So, I knew what my goal was for the Payton Run. Make that, goals. I chose a tiered goal plan.

First, I wanted to hit 1:40. I certainly didn’t want to be slower than a week earlier.

Next, I was shooting for 1:39.

Then, I knew I’d be really happy with 1:35.

And finally, I knew I’d be incredibly happy, though it probably was not obtainable yet for me, with 1:30.

I felt great throughout the race, which started and finished at South Middle School, and definitely thought throughout that 1:35 was possible. I’ll admit, 1:30 flashed into my head from time to time, but I didn’t want to think about it and be disappointed if I didn’t hit it. After all, this was run at basically a training pace, albeit a drop faster, because this was, in the grand scheme, just a training run for the Chicago Marathon. Sure enough, my time was 1:35.39 which, the announcer told the crowd, was only seconds behind the second- and first-place finishers in my division.

So I got the bronze medal, appropriately shaped like a football.

Seeing 1:35 on the clock as I approached the finish-time was super cool.

Next Saturday, Sept. 19, is my last long training run in preparation for the Chicago Marathon. It’ll be 22 or 23 miles along the lakefront here in Chicago.

The Chicago Marathon is my major fund-raiser for 2009 to support the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Please consider donating to support this worthwhile cause as I push my body on yet another 26.2-mile grind – my 6th marathon in less than two years. Click here to donate and all tax-deductible contributions are sincerely appreciated.

Thanks,

Ross.

Preparing for Marathon #6

2009-08-31T00:26:00.023-05:00

By Ross Forman

(August 31, 2009) - After the past two weeks, I know I’m ready for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, Oct. 11. I’m confident that Chicago will mark a Personal Record, my best time for 26.2 miles – of the six occasions that I have run that distance, dating back to my first marathon in November, 2007. That is the goal, period.

On August 22, I had a 20-mile training run. I ran with Chuck and we started at 4:30 a.m., beginning at about Belmont Avenue on Chicago’s north side. We ran 10 miles south along the lakefront, ultimately turning around at about 31st Street.

We circled Navy Pier in both directions, a new route we had never run.

We ran past Soldier Field, and I was able to reflect on the greats who have worn the blue and orange over the years for my beloved Chicago Bears.

We watched the sun rise on our left as we ran south.

We endured countless bicyclists, including many very annoying cyclists. (I’m sure they say the same thing about runners since we often all share the same, crowded trail.)

We had Gu Energy Packets … well, at least I had multiple Gu’s. Chuck doesn’t like them, but I actually look forward to Gu once-an-hour or so, and even have my favorites: Chocolate Outrage, Orange Burst and Strawberry Banana. I had my first Vanilla Bean Gu during this 20-miler, and liked it too.

We also had our Endurolytes from Hammer Nutrition, though I need to bring more since I carry the pills for both of us. Nice guy, aren’t I?! Anyone with cramping issues while running has to try Endurolytes; I’m convinced they work, though I know the ultimate test will come in about 6 weeks at the Chicago Marathon. But, I had absolutely no cramping issues on the 20-miler. I don’t have much salt in my normal diet, which I know some so-called experts say will affect cramping. I also now am running longer distances with 2XU compression calf guards and compression shorts (for the quads), and I think they work, too.

I had no problems whatsoever with the 20-miler. I felt fine – before, during and after. It was my best long training run over the past two years, and I celebrated, so to speak, with dinner that Saturday at Outback: 7-ounce filet (medium), bleu cheese chopped salad (no chives) and a sweet potato (dry). No Bloomin’ Onion or any other artery killer for me.

On August 29, I had a solo 10-mile training run in San Francisco and, again, I felt great throughout, beating my predicted pre-run time by three minutes, even though I ran without my traditional CytoMax and just water. I left my water bottle and baggy filled with CytoMax at home in Chicago, oh well. Anyway, it was a gorgeous, sunny Saturday in the City By The Bay, with bright blue skies as far as the eyes could see.

I ran on a path alongside the Pacific Ocean that led to the base of the Golden Gate Bridge. Super scenic, I will say. A lot of good scenery, too. There were a lot more memories from this fun run in the sun. Let’s see …

* I saw as many people wearing Boston Red Sox hats as San Francisco Giants hats. And none for the nearby Oakland A’s.

* I saw Duke and North Carolina basketball t-shirts. None for my Indiana Hoosiers – or even any for Texas Tech University, in tribute to Bobby Knight.

* I saw someone wearing a Detroit Red Wings shirt – not shocking.

* I saw someone wearing a Detroit Lions shirt – super shocking.

* I saw countless dogs, and always am amazed when dogs are off-leash. I’m still not ready to let Chuckie (my dog, not my running partner) off-leash in a vast, public area.

* I ran near Fort Mason … by a green plant with a world globe carved into it (pretty cool) …and, by runners with the Team In Training program (always good to see those who run for a cause).

All of my running this summer is done to raise funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. I’m very grateful to all who have – or will – sponsor me and, in the process, help the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Donations can be made at by clicking here.

Thanks,
Ross.

16,726-Yard Run for #34

2009-08-12T20:31:00.021-05:00

By Ross Forman

I’m not much of a golfer, though I do have some sweet swag from The Golf Channel. (Thanks, You-Know-Who.)

I’m not a regular on the links, though I will eat sausage links from time to time. (I usually pass on the patties for some reason.)

I’m not a fan of golf on TV. Actually, I have watched very little golf on TV; I think golf on TV has to be one of the most boring sports around.

My favorite golf is ... miniature golf, to tell you the truth. Except for that damn windmill hole.

Anyway, I think golf is a lot like marathon running, er, marathon training – sometimes you have it, sometimes you don’t.

As golf announcers Jim Nantz and Ken Venturi would say, let’s go back to the 15th. That’s the 15-miler in my world, not the 15th-hole.

I had a 15-mile training run on Saturday, August 8, in Chicago. I felt great on runs for a month-plus building up to that run; I even felt good the day before, loading up on carbs (pasta and a baked potato for dinner) and hydrating throughout the day (water, water, water).

I woke up at 4:30 a.m. that Saturday as I wanted to be running by

6 a.m. since the temp in Chicago was expected to hit the mid-90s, plus humidity. Running that early in the morning wouldn’t be too bad, I thought.

Almost immediately after getting out of bed, I just wasn’t feeling it. I can’t pin-point what it was, or wasn’t; I just wasn’t feeling it.

Still, I drove to the north side of Chicago as I was going to start at Irving Park. I’d run north for 3 miles, return to my starting spot, and then head south for 4 miles before heading back.

Unfortunately, I just never felt it during the run. Sure, I finished the run, but just wasn’t feeling it. No soreness, no cramps, nothing like that. Just mentally I wasn’t into it.

I guess I was like the golfer who normally shoots 80, but for some unknown reason shot 90. I was kind of bummed, but still returned to the road – for another run – the next day (Sunday, August 9). And also the day after that (Monday, August 10, while in San Francisco). My shorter runs (4 miles) on that Sunday and Monday were exceptional.

Perseverance is oh-so-important … in running, in golf and life overall.

As I prepare for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 11, it’s gonna be 8 miles on Saturday, August 15, and then 20 miles on Saturday, August 22. Both will be done along the lakefront in Chicago, and I’m excited for both.

I also am really looking forward to Saturday,

Sept. 12, when my training run, instead, will be participating in the 6th annual Walter Payton 16,726-Yard Run in Arlington Heights, Ill.

That’s 9.5 miles, with 16,726 representing the total career rushing yards for the greatest running back in NFL history, and one of my all-time favorites: former Chicago Bear Walter Payton. The Run is a fund-raiser for the Walter Payton Cancer Fund.

I met Walter countless times during his Hall of Fame career and it always was special. (Enjoy the vintage photo of Walter and Yours Truly above. Not certain how old I was at the time; I think about 12, and boy did I have a sweet-looking jacket?! And yes, that is my Chicago Bears hat.)

The last time I saw him before his 1999 death was a year or two earlier, at an autograph signing in downtown Chicago. I remember it like it was yesterday, and you can bet I still have the Sports Illustrated magazines that he signed for me that day.

Walter was a legend that day, and always. So I’m super-happy to do something to support and honor No. 34.

I’m running the Chicago Marathon with the National AIDS Marathon Training Program and am fund-raising for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Please consider donating to this very worthwhile cause.

Click here to donate.

Thanks,
Ross.

The Half Marathon

2009-08-05T13:18:00.012-05:00

By Ross Forman

It was late-June, or maybe early-July, when I got a text message from Matt, a good friend dating back to our days at Indiana University. He was one of the stars of the Hoosier soccer team and I was a beat reporter covering the team.

Thankfully, we have remained close friends long since our days in Bloomington. Matt is still active in soccer and I’m still writing. I also am running, a relatively new entrée on my sporting resume. So, when Matt sent me a text that he ran his first-ever Half Marathon, I knew I had a little challenge.

Matt finished in 2:20 … my goal for my first-ever Half Marathon was 2:19.

Sorry Matt, had to beat ya.

Problem was, I really had no idea going into my first Half what time was reasonable, what time was impossible, or even how to pace myself for only 13.1 miles. The Half Marathon, of course, is only 13.1-miles and though I’ve run five full marathons (26.2 miles), I really had no clue what was or was not possible.

I just knew July 26, when I approached the starting line, that I wanted to be done in 2:19.

I felt fine throughout the race and everything was working – the legs, the iPod, the Garmin watch, the energy gels, the Endurolytes from Hammer Nutrition, you name it.

The course was marked in miles and kilometers, and the latter screwed with my mind. Mathematically speaking, that is. There were times, late in my run, when I thought I only had one mile to go – according to the signs. Not so, of course.

I wish everyone in the world would just run in miles.

When I actually had one mile to go, I kicked it in. This was the home stretch, and boy was I looking forward to sending that text to Matt in Washington state. Sure enough, I did it, I crossed the finish line in 2:19.50.

I was thrilled; that was the happiest I had ever been after a race.

When I finished the Florence (Italy) Marathon in late-November 2007, that was the most emotional moment of my running career, mostly because it was my first marathon.

The time in my Half was/is nothing to brag about in the grand scheme of things. I ran at a training pace - not at a traditional, faster race-day pace. Before the race, I talked to this Israeli runner who had the stereotypical runners’ body – and the super-short running shorts too, which I never will wear. I later heard he finished in 1:29. So I guess I have my work cut out for me; I’m going to run a sub-two hour Half Marathon, someday … and still don’t ever expect or hope to see me wearing those super-short running shorts.

Now, though, I’m back into training for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, Oct. 11.

Two months to go, and I feel better than before any of the five other marathons I’ve run. Here’s hoping I stay as strong, and hopefully the folks in Kansas at the corporate headquarters for Garmin International will fix my Garmin 405 watch once and for all. I’ve had this watch since January, and this is the second time they are replacing it. Garmin might be great for others, but I’m not sold on it.
I ran 8 miles on Saturday, August 1, while in Cleveland for the 30th annual National Sports Collectors Convention. This Saturday,
August 8, the miles kick back up as I’ll be running 17.

I’m running the Chicago Marathon with the National AIDS Marathon Training Program and am fund-raising for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Please consider donating to this very worthwhile cause. Click here to donate.

Thanks,
Ross.

United, I Am - Chicago, I Run

2009-07-10T01:03:00.015-05:00

By Ross Forman

(July 9 in Chicago) – Chuck struggled early; I struggled late. Welcome to the world of running.

For my 12-mile training run on Independence Day, I ran here along Lake Michigan with my good friend Chuck, though he was only going 7 miles. Sure was nice to run with someone since the vast majority of my training runs throughout 2009 have just been me, myself and my iPod … although that often is by choice.

We ran south along the lakefront, making a quick stop to say HELLO to some friends at a softball tournament in Lincoln Park, and then turning around after about 3.5 miles. He left after his seven miles and I continued north to Foster Avenue.

Unfortunately, when I reached the mile-marker at Foster, I also realized I was tired. And boy were those last two miles tiring. Seemed like those last 2 miles took about 2 hours.

Oh well, at least I finished all 12.

My post-run holiday was playing three softball games of my own, not enjoying the beach, the Taste of Chicago or even a nearby bar-b-que. Running the bases and reaching for grounders while playing third base was not much fun for the first hour or so. At least my defense is usually pretty good and my offense is decent too as a singles or doubles hitter. My throwing is, ugh, in question. No one can turn a web gem into disaster better or faster than yours truly with some throws that, well, could end up anywhere but the first baseman’s glove.

My next marathon is three months away: the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, Oct. 18. With about 40,000 participants, this is going to be an awesome event, run through 29 historic and diverse neighborhoods. With so many family members and friends expected along the course, not to mention fellow marathoners I know, this is going to be one cool event.

I just hope it’s not hot.

The Chicago Marathon has been quite hot the last couple of years, and that’s no fun. My training actually was thrown off on June 27 by the heat. I was in Houston that weekend, and scheduled to run 12 miles on that Saturday. However, the thermometer said 87 degrees (and that’s no mention of the intense humidity) and it was just
7:47 a.m. I cannot image running 12 miles with the temp expected to hit 105 degrees. Heck, my Sugoi training shirt showed sweat just walking outside.
So instead of running 12 miles outside in Houston, I ran 8 miles on the treadmill inside at the Hilton Americas Hotel.

I’m happy to say that United Airlines is featuring me in its in-flight magazine, Hemispheres. Here’s a sneak peek at the piece.

The Chicago Marathon is my major fund-raiser for 2009 to support the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Please consider donating to support this worthwhile cause as I push my body on yet another 26.2-mile grind. Click here to donate and all tax-deductible contributions are sincerely appreciated.

Regards,

Ross.

PS … Best wishes for a Happy 50th Birthday (on July 9) to
Kevin Nash.

San Diego Marathon Memories (June 1, 2009)

2009-06-01T21:52:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

(May 31, 2009, in

San Diego, Calif.) -

What a day it was here at the Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon, one filled with emotions, laughter, pain, memories and 26.2 miles, as I ultimately finished with my second-best time. That’s now five marathons completed over a 79-week span. Or 553 days, to be exact.

Yep, it was Nov. 25, 2007, when I ran my first marathon, which was one year, six months and six days ago. I still can’t believe I’m a marathon runner.

The morning started with mist in the air and mist in my eyes. As I waited in the starting corral, minutes before the journey started, a locally-based lady from the military spoke to the runners, asking us to think and pray for the soldiers now serving overseas who are giving us the freedom to run the marathon. Yeah, I was wiping away tears as she spoke.

I crossed the starting-line about seven minutes after the gun started the race, the effect of about 20,000 others also prepped for the day, including Ronnie, who I met minutes before the race started. He was the only other person I saw all day also wearing a yellow shirt from the National AIDS Marathon Training Program, and how ironic that we were standing literally 10 feet away from each other as we were starting. I saw him again at about Mile 20, and I think he was shocked when I yelled at him. There also were two fans on the course who I saw holding AIDS Marathon “You Are Heroes” signs, so I ran to my right to give them a High-5. Had to do that.

The weather was ideal: overcast and in the 60s.

About three miles in, I was running behind a guy wearing a Phoenix Suns jersey. On the back, it said NASH, and I laughed. I doubt Kevin Nash, with his bum knees, could run 26.2 yards, let alone 26.2 miles. A few miles later, I saw a sign that said, “Way to go, Kevin.” Again, I laughed.

Shortly after seeing the NASH jersey, I saw the most surprising sign all day. It said: OBAMA SUCKS.

One of the funniest signs I saw said: Cold Corona Only 19.2 Miles Ahead.

Along the course, there were some memorable spots I saw, such as, Fred’s Mexican Café. I’m guessing it isn’t owned by my dad, but… Then there was Dirty Del’s, which made me think of my buddy Dell from Hawaii, himself a fellow marathoner. And as we ran past Petco Park, I thought about my fantasy baseball teams, believe it or not. As we ran past a Baja Fresh on Broadway, I so wanted a Mango Chicken Salad.

I ran most of the race my myself, just me and my iPod. I didn’t talk to many others and not many others talked to me either. I think my favorite iPod song of the day was This Is It from Kenny Loggins. Quite appropriate. Same for Madonna’s Miles Away. Though this was a Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon, I can’t say the bands on the course were great. Sorry. The cheerleaders, though, were plentiful. There were junior high cheerleaders, high school cheerleaders and female-impersonating cheerleaders with balloons in their shirts and many wearing blonde wigs. Ironically, we passed the female-impersonators twice on the course … at least I think it was the same ones. The Hooters cheerleaders were better … sorry, guys.

I ran for about 10 miles near a lady with her name written on the front and back of her shirt. It said MANDY. I thought of Tristar’s own and smiled.

I ran the whole race, surprisingly, behind a guy carrying an American flag. That was motivation, too.

I thought I was going to get my Personal Record at this marathon, and was on pace for it for 18 miles. I didn’t hit The Wall at that point, as they say, but I did start cramping in my calves, particularly my right one, which forced me to slow down. Heck, at one point, the pain was so severe I stopped for about 10 seconds – because I had to.

Another physical woe I endured, at about Mile 15, was wanting/needing to burp. Eventually, I did, and it must have been loud because the lady next to me looked over, smiled and actually said, “It’s better than the other end.”

At the pre-race Health Expo, I met former Olympian Frank Shorter and Dr. JoAnn Dahlkoetter, herself a marathon icon too. I saw Stan from Sugoi, who’s a pretty nice guy, not just the company president. I also spoke with a United Airlines pilot about compression socks; he strongly suggests them for running and flying, and not I’m going to start using them, for both.

Next up: the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, Oct. 11.

That will be my sixth marathon, but my first at home. I still cannot believe I’ve run one marathon, let alone five, with No. 6 set for Chicago in October and No. 7 possibly a return to Honolulu in December. With so many family and friends in Chicago, that will be a special race, especially since I’m running it to benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. So, will you please consider supporting this worthwhile cause. All donations are appreciated. Click here to donate.

Thanks for the memories, San Diego.

Ross.

San Diego, Here I Come... (May 16, 2009)

2009-05-18T16:33:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman
Pictured above with TNA Wrestling's SoCal Val (left) and Traci Brooks (right)

(May 16, 2009, in Buffalo Grove, Illinois)

WIGG … that was my theory today during my 9-mile training run, my longest before heading to the San Diego Marathon on May 31.

Let’s start with the W. That stands for Weather or, more specifically, Wind. It seemed like I was running into the wind today, regardless of which direction I was heading. That certainly makes it a bit tougher, to put it mildly. But ultimately I finished the 9 miles in the exact time I was aiming for. And was kinda happy about that, especially after taking about a week off from training to give my body some time to rest and recover.

The I is for Ipod, or lack thereof. I didn’t charge my iPod and it had no juice left, thus, I had to go to my back-up – an iPod from about five years ago. This one had been charging for a week-plus, so I thought I was good to go. But that didn’t matter – three songs in, it died. Running eight miles without music sucks! Oh well.

The first G is for Geese. And there were plenty of them along the route. That means plenty of geese droppings along the route as well.

The second G is for Garmin. Many people know (and have read) that I have been thoroughly disappointed with my Garmin 405 watch. About 10 days ago, I spoke with Adam at Garmin’s headquarters in Kansas. I told him the problems I’ve had with the watch and, without hesitation, he offered to replace it. And he did. I now have a new Garmin 405 and, most important, it seems to work. Thanks, Adam!!

I truly am on the homestretch for the San Diego Marathon, and can’t wait to board my United Airlines flight on Wednesday, May 27, bound for the land of the Padres.

After San Diego, I then turn my attention to the Chicago Marathon on Sunday, Oct. 11. That will be my sixth marathon, but my first here at home. With family and friends in Chicago, that truly will be a fun run … if 26.2 miles is ever fun.

I’m running the Chicago Marathon as a benefit for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago and hope you will consider supporting this worthwhile cause. All donations are appreciated. Click here to donate.

Thanks … and think of me in a couple weeks as I’m running through the streets of San Diego,

Ross.

Global Warming (April 12, 2009)

2009-04-12T19:42:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

Would someone please, PLEASE, explain this whole Global Warming thing to me.

I mean, seriously, what the heck is going on weather-wise?!

I umpired a high school baseball game in Chicago on Saturday,
March 21, and it was gorgeous. Sure, I was wearing a jacket, but was comfortable, actually sweating a bit.

It snowed about a week ago in Chicago. The White Sox re-scheduled their home opener due to the weather.

I ran 9 miles in Houston on Sunday, April 5, at Memorial Park, which has a nice near-3-mile loop. It was in the low-60s, what was quite comfortable for running, yet quite surprising for Houston.

Now it brings me to Saturday, April 12, a gorgeous-looking day in Chicago. Not a cloud in the sky, which I thought was perfect because I was doing an 18-mile training run in preparation for the San Diego Marathon on May 31.

I parked along the lakefront, not far from Irving Park Road, and as soon as I got out of my car, I knew it was cool, if only because I was wearing shorts, a t-shirt and my Sugoi jacket from the 2008 Nashville Marathon.

I was set to run, though a bit chilly, with the temperature probably about 40 degrees.

The first six miles were pretty uneventful, though I did see a runner wearing shorts and, well, just a training bra, or whatever the heck it was, and that was quite a site, and surprising. I saw other runners in shorts too, though not many. Others along the lakefront this Saturday were in sweatpants, some had hats and gloves on; some even wore Ugg boots with cheerleader-like pom poms. (Seriously).

As I coasted into mile 7, I realized that my Garmin watch had lived up to its billing: over-priced, over-rated and under-performing. The thing was dead; the screen was blank. I had to assume it was a battery-charging issue, but who knows.

Maybe these Garmin watches are good for some, but I certainly am not sold on them. At least not the one I have, which I’ve been using all year. I wish I was still using my $75 Timex; I never had such problems, as I do with this Garmin beauty.

Good thing I of course knew the route and the mileage, so I wasn’t relying on the Garmin for that. But I sure could have used it for the time, my interval-training, etc. Oh well.

As I reached the 10-mile mark, my left hand was cold, really cold. Like my fingers felt number. The iPod played The Cup of Life by Ricky Martin and when he counts to three in Spanish (un, dos, tres), I actually used my fingers to count – just to move my fingers.

As I said, it was frickin’ cold out there.

How cold, you ask? Well, when I got back into my car, the temperature said: 37 degrees.

Thankfully, though, the iPod survived. Here were some of my favorite songs from the 18-mile journey, in no particular order:
- Smack That by Akon.
- Amazing by Seal
- Bang The Drum All Day by Todd Rundgren, especially since this song puts me in a Hawaiian state-of-mind since the singer has ties to our 50th State.
- Dance Into the Light by Phil Collins
- Rollout by Ludacris
- The World’s Greatest by R Kelly, which actually was my go-to song for motivation with that Nike running gimmick I previously used.

Here’s hoping summer – or at least warmer weather – arrives soon, very soon.

And yes, that was me moaning how hot it was running last month in Orlando.

Must be Global Warming,

Ross.

On The Road To San Diego (April 3, 2009)

2009-04-02T23:55:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

I am officially On The Road To … San Diego, for the 12th annual Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon on May 31. Start time is 6:30 a.m. that Sunday, and this will be my fifth-ever marathon over a 554-day span; that’s one year, six months and seven days, to be exact. This will be my first marathon of 2009 and my second-ever from Elite Racing, the group that produces the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series, including such festive events as the Country Music Marathon, held annually through the streets of Nashville. I ran the Nashville Marathon with Coach Katie and Coach Dan in 2008, and that was one of the reasons I chose to kick off my ’09 marathon season in San Diego.

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon series marathons are … fun, or at least as much fun as the 26.2-mile grind can be. With bands, cheerleaders, thousands of cheering fans, these races truly are events, happenings, spectacles. Though I enjoyed running the Florence and Amsterdam Marathons in 2007 and 2008, respectively, these European races are nothing compared to the Rock ‘n’ Roll runs. It’s always great to hear and see marathon supporters, if only to help eliminate the boredom and pain along the multi-hour journey.

The San Diego Marathon also will be my first-ever all by myself, on race-day and during the five-months of training. Heck, I might not even know anyone along the streets on race-day or at the finish-line. But that’s on purpose. My last race was the Honolulu Marathon on Dec. 14, 2008, which I ran – and prepared for in the final days – with others from the National AIDS Marathon Training Program and a veteran local runner, Dell.

Now I want to see how I do all by myself, as scary and as boring that can be.

I’ve done all of the training so far by myself, though Coach Katie has offered suggestions of mileage.

I’ve trained for San Diego while on the road in Nashville, New York City, Philadelphia, Charlotte and Orlando, among other places.

Ah, yes, Orlando, where I spent countless nights for TNA Wrestling and other work-related projects. I’ve been to Orlando more often over the past five years than any other city in America, yet I still haven’t completely adjusted to its weather just yet.

We’re talking hot and humid. And unfortunately, I haven’t listened to my gut instinct on the Orlando weather, or my former colleague from WCW and TNA, Darryl, who lives there. In March, I had training runs in Orlando of 14- and 16-miles. Neither was exceptional, mainly because of the heat. It was just too damn hot while running. Still, I finished each run and followed each with strong runs in the days and weeks after.

I only have two, potentially three, long training runs before San Diego. One will be 18-miles; another will be 20. And I’ll also have a bunch of 8- and 10-mile runs before boarding my United Airlines flight to San Diego.

Also on the schedule for 2009 will be the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, which should be the complete opposite for me from San Diego. I expect to see, and know, literally hundreds of friends, family and fellow marathoners along the course, which starts and finishes at Grant Park.

And I’m thinking of returning to Honolulu in December for its marathon.

Here’s hoping San Diego delivers a Grammy-like Rock ‘n’ Roll race, as I’m expecting.

Ross.

Ready for Honolulu: December 7, 2008

2008-12-08T01:27:00.000-06:00

By Ross Forman

Let's look at things by the numbers:
* 385 Days.
* 9,240 Hours.
* 554,400 Minutes.
* 4 Marathons.
* 26.2 Miles per marathon.

I really can't believe it. I'm days away from running the annual Honolulu Marathon, without a fear in the world that I will finish the race.

When 2007 started, I never in my wildest imagination thought I could finish a marathon, let alone 3 in less than a year, or 4 within a 55-week span - with the numbers above corresponding to the dates of my first-ever marathon on Nov. 25, 2007, and the Honolulu Marathon, which is Sunday, Dec. 14. My how things change.

I joined the National AIDS Marathon Training Program during the Summer of 2007. I met new friends, trusted the program and its coaches, especially Katie, and, sure enough, I now have done something - finish a marathon - that only about 1 percent of the world does. I'm still shaking my head.

And as I prep for the Honolulu Marathon - which I will run with veteran Honolulu Marathoner Dell, and have my good friends Hector and JR also running - I am as confident as ever. I know this will be my best marathon ever, with my best time ever. No doubt better than Florence (Italy), Nashville (Tennessee) or Amsterdam, which is my marathon slate to date.

So what's next? I'm not really sure. I know I'll run somewhere in 2009. Probably more than one marathon. The question is, where? I want to run one in the spring, but I'm not sure I want to try the Nashville Marathon again in late-April, unless Jeff Jarrett or someone else from TNA Wrestling, based in Nashville, runs as well - or gives me motivation to try it again. I'd like to run one overseas as well, but where? I'm just not sure where. That's actually my biggest dilemma marathon-wise, where. Any suggestions?

If I've said it once, I've said it 100 times, or more, anyone can run a marathon, provided they are dedicated, determined and stick to a plan - be it the one offered by the National AIDS Marathon Training Program, or another training program. I know this first-hand.

So, as you start planning New Year's Resolutions, consider running a marathon in 2009 ... it can be done!!

Amsterdam Marathon: October 19, 2008

2008-10-23T04:18:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

Cheryl Ash McKenzie … I barely know her, but never will forget her.

We met Sunday, October 19, about 10 miles into the 33rd annual Amsterdam Marathon. We met as each of us was running solo en route back to the Olympic Stadium, which served as the start- and finish-line for the 26.2-mile grind. She asked about my pace and my run-walk style, and then asked if she could run with me.

Of course, I told her, thrilled to be running with someone, not just my iPod.

For the next two hours or so, Cheryl and I ran side-by-side. I pushed her to the finish line at times. She did the same for me. She struggled some; I struggled some. She saw my friends along the course from the National AIDS Marathon Training Program, such as Chicagoans Katie, Beth, Dan and Steve, and Josh from Los Angeles, among others. She shared some Ritz Crackers that Beth had been holding for me. We talked about our careers and she told me about her husband, Tim, who also was running, though at a much faster pace on this cool and mostly overcast day. We talked about her lack of interest in European soccer, which surprised me. And so much more.

Ultimately, we reached the Olympic Stadium, together. We crossed the magical Finish Line, and then hugged each other.

It truly was a moment I’ll never forget, quite possibly my fondest memory of the grueling journey, past windmills, around lakes, near some farm animals (pigs, sheep, horses, etc.) and more.

The Amsterdam Marathon was my third-ever marathon, all completed in an 11- month stretch. Amsterdam and my first marathon, last November in Florence (Italy), were fund-raisers for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Nashville last April was simply Katie, Dan and I running with a goal of finishing, nothing more.

I’m still truly amazed that I’ve finished one marathon, let alone three. And the morning after the Amsterdam Marathon, as I boarded my non-stop United Airlines flight bound for Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, I felt fine. Sure, my quads were a bit tight, but hey, I just ran 26.2 miles, so perhaps they should be.

The support I’ve received for my marathons has been incredible, truly heart-warming. From casual friends to long-time friends to people I’ve never even met yet have read my running tales and decided to support the cause. Family members and family friends also have been there. And countless business associates too, including everyone associated with Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling, starting with company President Dixie Carter, who texted me well wishes before and after the race. And countless TNA Wrestling stars also have called and/or texted me their well wishes, such as Kurt Angle, Kevin Nash, Jeff Jarrett, Sonjay Dutt, Roxxi and Jacqueline, among others. Heck, about a month before leaving for Amsterdam, TNA Wrestling stars Sonjay Dutt, Alex Shelley, Chris Sabin and Petey Williams truly shocked the shoes off me, literally. They presented me a pair of brand new Nike running shoes with their well wishes.

When the leg pain is, er, was there in Amsterdam at, say, Mile 22 or 23, it truly is amazing how the support of others helps motivate. I never once thought about stopping, knowing that so many others are, well, intrigued, if not amazed, that I have all of a sudden become a marathon runner.

And I’m not done running for 2008. Next up, it’s the Honolulu Marathon, starting at 5 a.m., on Dec. 14. This marathon also is a fund-raiser for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. And this is the marathon that, of all I have done so far, is the one I am most excited for. Sure, the first was, and always will be, the most exciting, just for that reason, but I have so many close friends in Honolulu and have spent so many days on Waikiki Beach, this one is the race I’m most excited for. Darryn and John from the National AIDS Marathon Program will be in Hawaii, so seeing – and hearing – them on the course will be motivating. Hawaiian JR also will be running, which will be cool to see. My friend Hector from Orlando will be running in Honolulu too, though I know he’ll in all likelihood finish ahead of me. Still, standing alongside Hector after the run, as we both will be wearing our medals, will be an honor. Hector, after all, has already finished an Ironman. (No, I don’t plan to train for an Ironman.) I’ll be running Honolulu with Dell, a Hawaiian friend who truly is a marathon veteran. This will be his 20th consecutive Honolulu Marathon, and though he’s a much faster runner than me, he’s agreed to do it at my best, so we can finish together.

Just like I did with Cheryl … because that’s how marathon memories are made.

The Final Countdown to Amsterdam

2008-09-22T03:32:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

I don’t like pasta. Never have and probably never will. Though I certainly understand and appreciate the nutritional value of carbo-loading, usually anchored by a plate or two of pasta, for long runs. Welcome to my world as a marathon runner.

I’ve eaten more pasta over the past 18 months or so since I’ve started training for marathons than, well, ever. It’s usually plain pasta, no sauce, or maybe with a drop of parmesan cheese. And I never truly enjoy it. It’s just food, necessary food, I know. Perhaps like a job you don’t like, but have to do.

How bad is my pasta problem? I recently picked up Nancy Clark’s Food Guide For Marathoners, published by Meyer & Meyer Sport, if only to hopefully find some pasta alternatives or some suggestions for improving my must-eat pasta. Nancy’s book definitely is a must for marathon runners as I’ve snagged multiple culinary tips from her as I head toward Amsterdam.)

Ah, yes, the Amsterdam Marathon, set for Sunday, Oct. 19. It’s the home stretch now, and I’m ready following recent memorable runs over the past few weeks in downtown Toronto and downtown Seattle. (Even when I’m out of town for work I have to find an area to run, which can be a chore unto itself.)

Take Toronto, for instance. I spent Friday night, Sept. 12, at the Sheraton Centre Hotel on Queen Street West. The following morning, I ran 23 miles along a path that runs adjacent to Queen’s Quay, enduring morning humidity that was evident from the moment I stepped outside. Queen’s Quay is a prominent street that skirts along Toronto’s downtown waterfront area. I ran about 90 minutes heading toward Toronto Pearson International Airport, turned around and ran back an hour, then went back that same hour stretch, and ultimately returned to the Sheraton in under five hours. I felt fine afterward, though the lack of water fountains along the route grinded on me mentally at times. And when I did see this one particular water fountain that I ran past multiple times, I felt like I was taking a shower in it with all of the water I splashed over me. The Friday before the 23-miler, I ate at The Keg, a popular Canadian steakhouse. Surprisingly, The Keg had absolutely no pasta, so I carb-loaded on a baked potato, a plate of garlic mashed potatoes and a plate of rice. Can’t believe I’m admitting this, I kind of missed my pasta before this long run.

On Sept. 20, I ran 10.5 miles in downtown Seattle, thanks to a perfect route suggested by John, a concierge at the Seattle Hilton Hotel on 6th Street. I ran along the Alaskan Way path, running for about 50 minutes until I turned around at the Palisade Restaurant … and, yes, I actually was curious if it offered pasta. I ran around the Port of Seattle and, at one point, near some youth soccer fields with about three or four games being played. As I watched the “yutes” kicking around, I had to think which one of these 5-, 6-, or 7-year-olds who now hates running would, in years, be a marathon runner. I know I was once in their spikes: a soccer player who hated the extra running that coaches made us do. Maybe that’s why I played goalie.

Only a few more weeks of running before boarding my non-stop United Airlines flight from Chicago O’Hare International Airport, bound for Amsterdam. I will, though, still be running in Orlando, Nashville and no doubt another city or two as well before Amsterdam … and no doubt still be complaining about pasta.

My training is through the National AIDS Marathon Training Program, which works to raise funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. I’d be grateful if you’d consider donating. Please go to my website (www.firstgiving.com/rossruns08) and help the AIDS Foundation of Chicago while I moan about eating pasta. Thanks,

Ross.

Ross Forman (pictured above with pro wrestling stars Curry Man and Tiger Mask) can be reached at: Rossco814@aol.com

Ross Runs Like Rocky? (Philadelphia Run)

2008-08-11T16:01:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman (pictured above with Kevin Nash)

PHILADELPHIA (August 8, 2008) - As usual, the first 20 minutes of my run today was the most difficult of the whole thing.

Let’s see, the iPod started with Viva La Vida from Coldplay, followed by 4 Minutes from Madonna, featuring Justin Timberlake and Timbaland. That was a dynamic duo of songs to kick off my 18-mile run; I couldn’t have been more pumped as I started running at 6 a.m., by myself along this city’s newest riverfront destination, Schuylkill Banks, home to greenways, parks, docks, the nation’s leading educational institutions, award-winning residential developments and active industrial sites.

But then the iPod’s battery went out. Ugh, to put it mildly.

About 10 minutes into the three hour run, already a wee bit ticked at the iPod, which I was certain I had charged, I came across some sprinklers. Not just one or two sprinklers, but about seven or eight, and there really was no way to run around them. So of course I ran through them. (On the way back, that was actually fun running through the water, but I didn’t really want to do it at the start. Oh well.)

Next on the hit list, the old Timex Ironman watch. As I tried to change my interval settings for this longer run, I tried to program it for four minutes, but accidentally did it for four hours. And it took me multiple attempts to figure it out, amazingly. That college degree from Indiana University didn’t seem to do much for me in my battle against the Timex watch. But eventually I fixed it, thankfully.

The three hour-plus run was scenic, but rather boring. There weren’t too many runner or cyclists out, thus, not much eye-candy to enjoy along the route. Hey, without music, ya gotta entertain yourself somehow.

I ran the entire 18 miles and only talked to one runner – a girl from Iran who told me I could get some water at the Philadelphia Canoe Club. And I did just that. Thanks!

Otherwise, it was just me, my bottle filled with an energy drink mix from Infinit Nutrition, a package of Gu (strawberry-banana) and some small bags of pretzels, courtesy of the United Airlines’ Red Carpet Club in Chicago.

This was, in the end, my best long run. In fact, it was better than my 14-miler and certainly better than my 16-miler two weeks ago, when my calves tightened up at about the 12-mile mark, giving me intense pain as I even tried to run.

The Amsterdam Marathon is Oct. 19 and I couldn’t be happier. I had a great training run today, as Coach Katie predicted, and now truly am excited – not nervous – for the last two long training runs (20- and 23-miles).

All of the running and the countless hours training are done to raise funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. I’m very grateful to all who have – or will – sponsor me and, in the process, help the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Donations can be made at: www.firstgiving.com/rossruns

I Did It Again!

2008-05-15T01:26:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

I thought the 2007 Florence (Italy) Marathon, which I finished last November as part of the National AIDS Marathon Training Program (NAMTP), would be my one-and-only marathon, ever.

Hardly.

Let’s see, on April 26, I ran the Nashville (Tenn.) Marathon, and was able to cut 25 minutes off my Florence time. And now I’m back training along the lakefront in Chicago with the NAMTP.

My goal this time: finish the Amsterdam Marathon on Oct. 19 in my best time ever, and I’m quite confident that I can do it.

I’m completely sold on the NAMTP training program, which is a mix of running and walking. I’m not winning the race, but I’m finishing. That’s most important. (And after the Nashville Marathon, I actually walked with Coach Katie and Coach Dan of the NAMTP from the finish line at LP Field to our hotels in downtown Nashville, about three miles away - after running 26.2 miles. Maybe a $10 cab ride would have been preferred, but it wasn't neccessary.)

I never was a long-distance runner. I was, instead, the one who questioned the sanity of all the marathon runners.

After training once with the NAMTP, and then training for Nashville by myself (though with the training techniques of the NAMTP), I am convinced that anyone – yes, absolutely anyone – can complete a marathon or half marathon with the training techniques of the NAMTP.

So, if you’re even remotely considering the 26.2-mile challenge, give it a run … you might actually like running.

My running and training is done to raise funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. I’dbe grateful if you’d consider sponsoring me and, in the process, helping AIDS Foundation of Chicago. So, please go to my website (www.firstgiving.com/rossruns08) and help the AIDS Foundation of Chicago while I run to Amsterdam. Thanks,

Ross.

Country Music Marathon (April 26, 2008 in Nashville)

2008-05-07T00:51:00.000-05:00

I ran the Country Music Marathon in Nashville on Saturday, April 26, 2008! Next up: Amsterdam.

Amsterdam, Here I Come! (January 30, 2008)

2008-01-30T11:04:00.000-06:00

Dear Friends and Family,

Thank you very much to all of you who supported me as I participated in my first marathon last November in Florence. It was an amazing experience, and I could not have done it without your support. Well, I'm ready to do it again and run another marathon!

That's right, I will be participating in the Amsterdam Marathon on October 19 … running 26.2 miles.

I am once again training and will be running a little farther each week as I prepare for Amsterdam. In total, I expect to log nearly 500 miles during training. Running a marathon is an amazing experience, and since, well, I'm a writer, I will be keeping this Journal to keep you updated on my training progress. It's all part of the National AIDS Marathon Training Program, which raises money for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago to fund direct medical care, food, housing, and other vital AIDS services — to help keep people with HIV/AIDS alive until there's a cure.

This is why I am committed to raise at least $8,400 (and hopefully more) … and I'm asking for your support.

I would be so grateful for any donation you can make to help me meet this goal. It's so easy to make a donation (so no excuses!). It only takes a few moments to make a contribution. Donations are tax deductible, and all contributions benefit The AIDS Foundation of Chicago, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Together, we can take pride in improving the lives of those less fortunate.

As you can probably imagine, this is an extremely physically-challenging task, but I am confident that, with your support, I can make it to the finish line.

Thank you so much for supporting me in this huge undertaking. When I cross that Start (and also the Finish) Line in October, I'll know that you helped and motivated me.

Thanks,
Ross Forman.

P.S. For those of you who are still having trouble believing that I ran (and finished) the Florence Marathon in November, the proof is below and at about the 5:50 mark in this clip.

I Ran A Marathon! - November 30, 2007

2007-11-30T02:23:00.000-06:00

Photo Courtesy: Bowdoin Su

By Ross Forman

FLORENCE, ITALY - Well, it’s over and, yes, I completed my first 26.2-mile marathon, held here on Sunday, Nov. 25.

I couldn’t be happier.

And that’s just the start of emotions I experienced during the five-hour journey along the mostly flat course that was filled with cobblestone streets.

Finishing the marathon brought pride, joy and honor, not to mention pain and a few tears.

I ran the first 90 minutes with Tim, a 45-year-old from San Francisco who I met and first ranwith in California in September. We went at a four- or five-to-one ratio, mixing running and walking. Tim then broke away, opting to jog the rest of the race as opposed to the run-walk training method that we learned during the six-months of training with the National AIDS Marathon Training Program (NAMTP).

At the two-hour mark, the outside part of my left knee started aching, forcing me to slow down to ease the pain. About two-and-a-half hours in, the knee was really hurting, forcing me, at times, to walk a little longer than I wanted to.

The rest of the marathon, I was slowed significantly by the injured knee, even though I had iced daily leading into the run.

Others, thus, passed me and I struggled. But no way was I gonna stop. Quitting was not an option. I trained too hard, for too long and too many supported me and the cause to say, ‘I’m done.’

I ran the second half of the race chatting at times with an Austrian couple, a girl from Georgia and others, including many of the 250 NAMTP runners who came herefrom Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

I saw Michelle, a Chicagoan in her 20s who I trained with extensively over the summer, struggling even more than me with, oh, about 10 miles to go. As I approached her, clearly seeing she was dealing with legs woes, I saw a man approach her from the right. As I later learned, Michelle’s near-60-year-old angel spoke barely any English, yet was driven to make sure she finished. Michelle cried as she later told the story; I was honored and amazed I saw it materialize right before my eyes.

I saw Coach Katie with about four miles to go and that brought a huge smile to my face. She ran with me for a while, maybe 10 minutes, offering encouragement and jokes the whole way. She eventually broke away to ran back to other NAMTP runners behind me, but not before reminding me that, when – not if, but when - I finish, she’ll have Rice Krispie treats waiting for me. And she did. We toasted the marathon that night with red wine and a Rice Krispie treat apiece. That was awesome!

When Katie left, I knew I was on the home stretch, that the 42-kilometers was almost done. Tears were swelling, knowing I was about to do what so few others worldwide attempt, let alone accomplish. I thought about those who have supported and encouraged me since day one of my marathon journey, including Hector, Dell, Mandy, Lodi, Kevin Nash, Jeff Jarrett and the rest of the TotalNonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling family.

With about half-a-mile to go, I caught up to Dan, a Chicago NAMTP runner in his 20s who also was struggling. I told him we had to kick it in with so little to go, that we couldn’t walk anymore, that we had to run the rest of the way home, first passing fans on our left, including many who we knew and cheered for us by name, then a throng of fans on both sides as we approached the finish line – while running on a red carpet, fittingly. It was an awesome feeling.

We crossed the finish line together. Actually, I crossed a second before Dan, on purpose, which he and I joked about later since he noticed. I got the medal draped around my neck, then a hug from a NAMTP runner from Los Angeles who, well, I don’t even know her name. But we had run together for a little with about 10 miles to go and though I made a joke about how Chicago is better than Los Angeles (which it is), I told her that, I sure hope she still meets me at the finish line with a hug. More motivation, I thought … and it was so cool that she was the first one who hugged me. I actually was shocked she remembered, but boy was it cool to see her.

All of my close friends and training partners finished the marathon,including Chuck, Rob, Dru, Bobby,Carrie, Michelle, Robert, Kevin, Janelle, Ray and, actually, everyone I can think of.

Six months ago, I never in my wildest dreams thought I could finish a marathon. Heck, I thought 10 miles would be an impossible task, let alone 26.2.

Now, though, my thinking is, where is my second marathon gonna be? The Chicago division of the National AIDS Marathon Training Program supposedly will be training runners for 2008 marathons in Chicago, Honolulu and Amsterdam. So, I guess I better get out the sunscreen and flip-flops for few days in and around Waikiki next December.

Running a marathon? That’s not a problem for me.

And it shouldn’t be for anyone. As the saying goes … if I can do it, you too can do it.

Oh yeah, the $1 that Chuck promised me lastJune if I finished the marathon, well,he came through and presented it to me that Sunday night in between sips, er,swigs of Italy’s finest red wine.

All of the running and the countless hours training was done to raise funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. I’m so grateful to all who sponsored me and, in the process, helped the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. You drove me to finish the marathon and, more important, helped me be Chicago’s top fund-raiser, at least as of race day. Donations are still appreciated for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago at: www.firstgiving.com/rossruns

Ross Forman can be reached at: Rossco814@aol.com.

Home Stretch to Florence - November 5, 2007

2007-11-05T11:49:00.000-06:00

By Ross Forman

It’s the home stretch for the 2007 Florence Marathon, set for Nov. 25 in Italy … and I feel ready.

The last major training run as part of the National AIDS Marathon Training Program (NAMTP) was Nov. 3, along the lakefront in Chicago. Some ran 26 miles, while I ran my scheduled 24 miles.

Actually, we all ran the extra .2 miles as well, naturally.

After finishing the 24 miles, I looked a little further north and spotted a balloon arch and heard the NAMTP coaches, organizers, volunteers and other runners cheering for me, by name, no less. What a cool feeling, so I ran the last .2, with cheers and ultimately hugs all around. Coach Katie hung the NAMTP medal around my neck … that was a special moment I’ll never forget.

Never in my wildest imagination did I think I’d run 24 miles. But, through the NAMTP’s training regimen, which is based on a run-walk theory, I know I’m ready for the 26.2 miles that I’ll run in Italy. No problem with that, and no worries.

After the training run, we relaxed, stretched, ate bananas, bagels, peanut butter, Rice Krispie treats and, well, just about anything and everything around. Including some Oreo cookies, my favorites.

And that was just for an appetizer. I went with fellow runners Richard and Brad, and volunteer Andrea, to Moody’s, where we all devoured cheeseburgers and fries, and a pitcher of beer. Boy did that burger taste good, and I never thought once about the countless calories and enormous amounts of grease and fat I was putting into my body.

The last major training run also was a downer of sorts. Fellow runner Rob, who is one of the top runners in the NAMTP, had to stop after 21 of his 26 miles due to a knee injury. Hopefully he’ll on the path in Florence.

I’m always asked how I feel after the long runs and, well, I feel fine. Credit the training method, or whatever, but I truly felt fine. After lunch, I drove home and just continued my day as normal with no lingering after-affects of four-plus hours of running.

All of the running and training is done to raise funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. I’d be grateful if you’d consider sponsoring me and, in the process, helping AIDS Foundation of Chicago. So, please go to my website (www.firstgiving.com/rossruns) and help the AIDS Foundation of Chicago while I runto Florence. Thanks,

Ross.

Ross Forman (pictured in the middle above, in case you were unsure) can be reached at: Rossco814@aol.com

On The Road To Florence - October 19, 2007

2007-10-19T12:59:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

SMYRNA, Ga. - My toughest challenge to date was Oct. 13, when I ran 21 miles by myself along the Silver Comet Trail, starting here in suburban Atlanta. I began at the 1.2 mile-marker and knew that, when I saw11.7, it’d be time to turn around and head back to my car.

And then go to work for Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling.

The course was perfect: mostly flat and, because of the large trees that surrounded the path, mostly shaded. There were some inclines and a small bridge that I literally had to run up and over, but for the most part, this was the second-best place to run. Behind the ever-scenic path on Lake Shore Drive in Chicago, of course.

There was, though, one major flaw: water. Or lack thereof. There was a bicycle shop about two miles after starting, but I didn’t need any water then; I had my water bottle (filled with a hydration mix) and was carrying a 32-ounce plastic bottle of orange-flavored Gatorade. (I never like carrying bottles when running, but I wasn’t gonna risk it since I didn’t know what was, or wasn’t, out there to drink.)

When I hit the 11.5-mile marker, there was a bathroom and water fountain … but the water fountain didn’t work. “Oh @#$#%” was basically what I said at that point. Luckily, though, one of the resting cyclists showed me that, to get the water fountain to work, I had to push the button three times, then water would flow. Sure enough, there was water.

The second-half of my run was fairly, well, boring. There weren’t many people out there to people-watch, though the groups of roller-bladers who skate in a formation are kind of amusing, at least to me they are.

When I hit the bicycle repair shop with about two-miles to go, I bought two bottles of water and a energy bar.

Ultimately, I finished in, oh, about 3:45 – running about half-a-mile past the 1.2 starting marker to complete the full 21 miles. I’m actually just estimating the time since this was my first run that I forgot my watch – and was very frustrated throughout for forgetting.

The iPod is a blessing and I listen to everything from 2Pac to U2, 50cent and Eminem to Neal Diamond and Barry Manilow. I ended the run, fittingly, with Kenny Loggins’ This Is It.

I have only one more long training run: a 24-miler on the first Saturday in November. Otherwise, it’s just 8- or 10-miles on Saturdays, building up to Nov. 25 when I’ll be running 26.2 miles through the streets of Florence, Italy.

My running and training is done to raise funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. I’d be grateful if you’d consider sponsoring me and, in the process, helping AIDS Foundation of Chicago. So, please go to my website (www.firstgiving.com/rossruns) and help the AIDS Foundation of Chicago while I run to Florence. Thanks,

Ross.

Ross Forman can be reached at: Rossco814@aol.com

16 Miles In San Francisco

2007-09-10T04:34:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

I gotta admit, I was a little nervous heading into my 16-mile training run on Sept. 8.

First, it was my longest run ever, and second, I was running with the San Francisco team from the National AIDS Marathon Training Program (NAMTP) as opposed to normal Chicago crew I run with. I feared the incredible hills of San Francisco streets, and, dare I mention, Crooked Street. Plus, after running, I was gonna see all my friends from Tristar Productions at their SF Collectors Show - and they all knew I was running in the morning and would be asking how it went.

Well, 16-miles was, ultimately, no problem ... and the San Francisco crew (Todd, Tom, Joe and others) was a lot of fun to run with.

We started at Golden Gate Park, and since I'm not too familiar with many San Fran landmarks, I don't know the exact route, though we certainly ran to San Francisco State University and around Lake Merced.

The group I ran with was nice and energetic, and quite welcoming for a newcomer. We started with 12, yet ultimately, only six of us finished the three-plus hour journey due to some injuries along the way.

Running in San Francisco is nothing like running with my normal Chicago crew, where we just go south along the path that is adjacent to Lake Shore Drive, then return the same way. In SF, there were countless turns and street-lights and, well, to say I was lost about 10 minutes in would be an under-statement. Heck, I really don't know how they remember exactly where they're going. And the SF route, unlike the Chicago route, doesn't feature countless perfectly-sculpted bodies running in the opposite direction, which always is easy on the eyes.

Next Saturday (Sept. 15) will be a Recovery Run of "only" eight miles as I head into the home-stretch for the 2007 Florence Marathon on Nov. 25. We're only 11 weeks away from that big 26.2-mile trek through Italy ... I couldn't be more excited!

My marathon training is part of the National AIDS Marathon Training Program (NAMTP), to raise funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Would you please consider sponsoring your favorite writing-runner and help the AIDS Foundation of Chicago in the process. Please go to my website (www.firstgiving.com/rossruns) while I run to Florence, Italy. Thanks,

Ross.

Ross Forman can be reached at: Rossco814@aol.com

Training for Florence: Hills, Watermelon and Yvan Cournyer

2007-08-27T20:44:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

Hills, watermelon and Yvan Cournyer ... welcome (back) to my week of training for the 2007 Florence Marathon on Nov. 25.

I ran last week while out of town with my friend Dell, who will be celebrating his 60th birthday next month and has 19 marathons under his belt. His 20th will be this December in Honolulu. We ran about 6 miles in one hour, including some painful hills. OK, they weren't really hills, more like inclines, but when you're not used to them, they can be tough. And they were. Nonetheless, Dell didn't mind running my slower-than-his-normal pace, and it was enjoyable for both of us to have someone to run with.

I ran this past Saturday, August 25, in Chicago, and did my longest run ever: 14 miles, finishing in 2:36. I ran with a faster pace-group than normal and for most of the way it was just Richard, Kimberly and myself. Our coach from the National AIDS Marathon Training Program (NAMTP), Katie, joined us for the first five miles or so. And for much of that time, the four of us played the Name Game. I, for instance, would start by saying, "Frank Sinatra," and the next person then would have to name a celebrity whose name started with "S." What a great way to pace the miles ... until I got "Y." But actually it wasn't too tough, as I said, 'Yvan Cournyer," the former Montreal Canadiens hockey player who was my all-time favorite player. I'm sure the other three probably thought I was making that one up.

As I've said before, my favorite post-run snack is Rice Krispie treats. Second-place on that list is watermelon, and Richard's home-made banana bread this week was damn-good. Thanks.

I'll be running 8 miles on Saturday, then will be doing16 miles the following Saturday while in San Francisco. Less than three months to go, wow!

My marathon training is part of the National AIDS Marathon Training Program (NAMTP), to raise funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Would you please consider sponsoring your favorite writing-runner and help the AIDS Foundation of Chicago in the process? Please go to my website (www.firstgiving.com/rossruns) while I run to Florence, Italy. Thanks,

Ross.

Ross Forman (who isn't spending much time with Ronald McDonald these days since he's training for the marathon) can be reached at: Rossco814@aol.com

#12: On the Run - August 20, 2007

2007-08-20T01:03:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

For years while playing hockey and baseball, I wore uniform No. 12.

I never thought I'd run 12 miles.

But I did, without pain or problems.

I did the 12-mile journey August 18 along the lakefront in Chicago.

I'll be doing 14 miles this upcoming Saturday, then dropping down to eight miles on Sept.1 for a recovery run.

Gosh, now, eight miles sounds and seems so easy.

Well, maybe I shouldn't say that just yet.

My marathon training is part of the National AIDS Marathon Training Program (NAMTP), to raise funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Would you please consider sponsoring your favorite writing-runner and help the AIDS Foundation of Chicago in the process? Please go to my website (www.firstgiving.com/rossruns) while I run to Florence, Italy. Thanks,

Ross

Ross Forman can be reached at: Rossco814@aol.com

On the Run to Florence - August 14, 2007

2007-08-14T01:05:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

Well, I did my first double-digit run.

I ran 10-miles on Saturday, August 11, finishing in 2:02.

Only 16.2-miles on top of that and I'll have a full marathon done ... ugh.

I would have finished in under two hours had my running group - with our 12-minute-per-mile pace-group - not stopped for a couple bathroom breaks and taken a little longer at the Gatorade stops than we probably should have.

Oh well, I finished and felt great. No foot problems, no stamina problems.

I'll be running 12-miles this upcoming Saturday, August 18, along the lakefront, starting at Foster Avenue and heading south-bound.

In addition to the Saturday group-runs, I also run two or three times during the week, each time for 45- or 55-minutes, give or take.

I really enjoy the Saturday runs because someone else manages the time. I'm not monitoring the watch every few minutes, to keep on our 4:1 run:walk ratio. During the week, when I'm running solo, I'm checking my trusty Timex every few minutes, and then I actually run at a 5:1 pace.

After this week's 12-mile journey, I'll do 14 miles next week, then drop down to an 8-mile recovery run on Sept. 1, which actually could be quite a challenge since I'll be running in Denver. Actually, I'll be running in Denver with my friend Chuck, if he doesn't mind my slower pace than his norm.

Thanks,

Ross.

Ross Forman can be reached at: Rossco814@aol.com

Florence Avenue - July 29, 2007

2007-07-29T23:20:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

I don't pay too much attention to street signs when I'm running. I just know that I'll run about 20 minutes away from home, then head back about the same distance and time coming back. During the week, you see, I'm running two or three times - Mondays and Wednesdays for sure, maybe Thursdays too - in preparation for the longer Saturday runs with the group.

The other day, though, I spotted a street sign that, well, was maybe fate. About a seven-minute run from my front-door was the sign for FLORENCE AVENUE.

How fitting, as I continue my preparation for the 2007 Florence Marathon on Nov. 25 as part of the National AIDS Marathon Training Program (NAMTP).

My last group-run in July was a 7-mile journey, heading south along the path between Lake Shore Drive and Lake Michigan.

I finished in 1:21.18, which actually was about three minutes faster than my 12-minute-mile pace. I felt great after the run - no pain, no fatigue. I was among the first finished from the Florence and Las Vegas marathoners and the Vegas half-marathoners, and thus among the first to hit the post-run food table, which always is loaded with bananas, bagels, Gatorade, peanut butter and other goodies.

And I also split a Rice Krispie treat with Coach Katie ... that's our personal favorite.

I'm now less than four-months away from race-day; I can't believe it. Hopefully those who have not yet contributed in my drive to support the AIDS Foundation of Chicago through the NAMTP will do so. It's easy and helps a great cause. Simply go to: www.firstgiving.com/rossruns

Thanks again,

Ross.

On the Run to Florence - July 24, 2007

2007-07-24T01:35:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

I ran 5 miles on July 21 in 58 minutes and, sure, this is a tad less than one-fifth of a marathon’s 26.2-mile grind, but this was the first time I really felt that, yes, I will be able to do it.

Not really sure why, but just felt good out there, running along the lakefront.

The 58-minute time was slower than I could have gone, but it was right on for my training pace-group as part of the National AIDS Marathon Training Program (NAMTP) en route to the Florence 2007 Marathon on Nov. 25.

I normally run about a 10-minute mile, give or take, but am training in the 12-minute pace-group, named by the NAMTP for Alberto Salazar, the charismatic runner who won three consecutive New York City Marathons in the early 1980s.

Next Saturday, I’ll be doing 7-miles, then 8, then 10, slowly and steadily increasing my distances over the coming weeks and months.

Ross Forman can be reached at: Rossco814@aol.com

On The Run - July 16, 2007

2007-07-16T17:16:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

I ran three miles on July 14, simply for a time to be placed in a new pace-group on my road to the Florence 2007 Marathon on Nov. 25 as part of the National AIDS Marathon Training Program.

I finished the run along Lake Michigan in just over 32 minutes, though it actually would have been a drop under 32 had I not gotten lost amid construction on the path. So finishing in a 10:30-minute pace, I now will be in the 12-minute training pace-group from here on out, named by the NAMTP for Alberto Salazar, the charismatic runner who won three consecutive New York City Marathons in the early 1980s.

Next I'll be doing 5-miles, then 7, then 8, and slowly and steadily increasing my distances over the next few weeks and months.

I felt great after the three-mile run. No soreness in my previously-injured right ankle. I also didn’t have any problems with my stamina. And, having already run longer distances, the coming weeks should be fun. Wait, did I just say running these distances will be fun?

Well, they’re not really fun. But meeting the other runners and NAMTP staff and coaches has been enjoyable. There’s guys and girls, young and old, athletes and, uh, not-your-typical-athletes. Everyone out there on Saturday mornings along the lakefront is supportive and motivating. There are those who train in an 8:30-minute pace-group and they just look like athletes or career runners. Then there are those who train at the 18:30-minute pace-group. Those in the latter group are really motivating, more than those in the former … if they can do it, I can do it.

The ultimate drive of the NAMTP is to raise funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. I’m thrilled to say I’m well on my way to my goal of $3,900, but now I’d like to surpass a top NAMTP fund-raising total from last year. So, if you’re thinking of helping the AIDS Foundation through my running, I’d be grateful, especially since I’m now driven to raise $8,012. So, please go to my website (www.firstgiving.com/rossruns) and help the AIDS Foundation of Chicago while I run to Florence. Thanks,

Ross.

Ross Forman (shown above in his favorite running shirt) can be reached at: Rossco814@aol.com

On The Road To Florence - June 28, 2007

2007-06-28T00:44:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

I am now officially On The Road To Florence, having completed the first run – a 3-mile at-your-own-pace trip heading south along the lakefront here in Chicago – as part of the National AIDS Marathon Training Program (NAMTP).

There were about 120 of us, ready to embark on the experience of a lifetime – training for a 26.2-mile marathon on Nov. 25 in Italy or Dec. 2 in Las Vegas, or a Half Marathon in Vegas. There were young and old, black and white, Asians, Hispanics and others.

Regardless of athletic background, all had the same goal: start and finish a marathon (or half marathon) in six months.

I’ve been pretty dedicated in my training over the past few weeks: running regularly (running three consecutive days, then skipping a day) and eating a lot more healthy than I prefer. Skipping on the fried foods and ice cream sundaes is no fun in my book. Oh well.

I started the 3-mile run with Group 4 after predicting I’d finish at about a 12-minute-per-mile pace. Why 12? I’m not really sure. That’s just where I thought. Others figured to run 8-minute miles over the 3-mile course, while some were at 18-minutes. The great thing about the NAMTP is that it’s for everyone, not just the true runner.

I got to the half-way point, where NAMTP’s Frank stood on the side of the course in his bright yellow shirt to tell us runners to turn around and head back the same 1.5-miles we just ran, and actually was shocked to see Frank. I thought I had just run one-mile at that point, not 1.5. I was feeling great, truly shocked that I had gone 1.5 miles so quickly. I wasn’t tired or huffing-and-puffing at all.

I’m looking forward to the July 7 and July 14 runs, when, one of those days, I will be re-timed on the 3-mile course. I think then I’ll end up in the 10- or 11-minute-per-mile pace-group.

The NAMTP raises money for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago to fund direct medical care, food, housing, and other vital AIDS services — to help keep people with HIV/AIDS alive until there’s a cure. I hope you will sponsor me on this journey, if you haven’t already.

Ross.

Ross Forman can be reached at: Rossco814@aol.com

Getting Started - June 4, 2007

2007-06-04T23:12:00.000-05:00

By Ross Forman

I have long thought the best way to go 26.2 miles is by car, ideally with someone else driving. But that doesn’t mean I haven’t been, at the very least, intrigued at the thought of running a marathon. So few try it, even fewer finish.

The National AIDS Marathon Training Program (NAMTP) claims that a marathon is something anyone and everyone can accomplish, if dedicated and committed.

Well, maybe I need to be committed (to a room with padded walls) because I’m gonna give this NAMTP a run, literally. I am officially throwing my hat into the marathon ring.

In Florence, Italy, of all places.

The NAMTP’s spring training session (now underway) leads to the Chicago Marathon or the Chicago Distance Classic Half Marathon, both in October. I’m too late to start training for those. The NAMTP’s summer session, which trains potential marathoners for the Las Vegas Marathon on Dec. 2 and the Florence Marathon a week earlier, formally kicks off along the lakefront on June 9 with the group’s first official run: a three-mile journey.

And I’ll be there.

Yes, Ryan, I’m now a member of “The Runner’s Club.”

I’m actually excited for the six months of training, not too nervous. How will I feel? Will I be able to finish? What can I eat? What can’t I eat? What if I miss a Saturday morning training session? How sore will I be?

So many questions, so few answers … at least as of now.

I’ve been in and around sports my whole life – writing, playing and now mostly just officiating. Sure, there’s a lot of cardio conditioning involved in the ice hockey that I referee, but that’s nothing compared to running a marathon. Even at the high school and college level that I officiate.

When I not writing, I work in the world of professional wrestling, and there’s no business that’s more fitness-driven than pro wrestling. Many of the muscle-packed wrestlers can lift small cars, but I’m sure none has run a marathon. It’s definitely motivation to finish, to do something fitness-related that, again, none has ever even attempted. And I’m talking about some of the biggest names in the game, from Kurt Angle, Kevin Nash and Scott Steiner to Sting, Jeff Jarrett and Christian Cage.

I know several marathon runners, including Randall, a longtime friend who I officiated hockey with. Two years ago he shocked me when he said he was running the Chicago Marathon. Randall, you see, is more interested in drinking beer than training. However, he ran; I saw him running and he finished – in about four hours, amazingly.

Watching Randall run was the first time I really thought about running a marathon.

Motivation comes in many forms, too, I’ve learned over the past few weeks as I’ve contemplated this life-changing decision. Hector, for instance, is motivation. He’s changed from a fat 270-pounder to, truly, an Ironman. Then there’s Chuck, who laughs at me almost every time I mention it – because he thinks I’ll never finish. And he even bet me $1 that I won’t finish. It will be so sweet to collect that dollar.

I will document my marathon journey over the next seven months with regular updates. I’ll share my training, my ups and my downs, my concerns and my accomplishments, and more.

Until next time, I’m off to run,

Ross.

Ross Forman can be reached at: Rossco814@aol.com