Author: The Running Griffin

If you are hoping for miracle running tips about how to go out and win the next Boston Marathon, then this website is not for you. I am in no stretch of the imagination an elite runner but then again not many of us are or they wouldn’t be called “elite.” What I am is a runner who has realized the joy of running. Whether it be a 5k race in support of a local cause or a half-marathon or full-marathon with the finish line seeming at times to never be in sight, running allows each of us the ability to sort of leave behind the rest of the world and focus on simply getting to the finish line. We might not win a trophy and we might not make a career out of running but what we are guaranteed is a certain friendship among running friends, better health and the endorphin filled pride each time we cross a finish line. This website will allow me to highlight different races that I have done, perhaps some that I plan on doing and maybe other running stories that I hope to share with runners like myself.

Sub 8’s the same week as the Boston Marathon at Scott Carlson Memorial 5k!

On April 21, 2012April 21, 2012 By The Running GriffinLeave a comment

Today it was off to the Warwick, Rhode Island area for the Scott Carlson Memorial 5k. This race is held in memory of Scott Carlson and all of the money from the race goes to the ALS Society’s Rhode Island Chapter to provide support to individuals and families struggling with the ALS disease and to work to find a cure for the disease that affects so many people.

The 5k was held on the absolutely beautiful grounds of the Goddard Memorial State Park. The park hugs the water and is a sensational place to hold a race. For the most part the course was pretty flat and kudos to the race staff for having volunteers out in force. Each mile had a time split, there was a water stop 1/2 way through and the post-race amenities were great. The bouncy house was a great addition to the race and since the whole family headed down for this race, our four year old greatly appreciated this touch!

Having done the Boston Marathon in the record heat on Monday, all week I struggled with some blisters and foot pain however was determined to go out and run this race. I was going to be happy just crossing the finish line but while I was out there felt really good! I finished up the race with a time of 23:46 good for a 7:39/mile pace!

This is a race that would certainly be one to make sure you put on the calendar for next year! See you then!

Boston Marathon Weekend Is Here!

On April 14, 2012 By The Running GriffinLeave a comment

Boston Marathon weekend is here! In two days, Beth Ann and I will be heading out to Hopkinton to cross the starting line and make our way along the 26.2 miles of road ending in downtown Boston. The experience is sure to be one we will never forget and both the nerves, anticipation and excitement are all starting to really kick in.

To all the other runners out there, please be safe. To fans along the course, please support runners with water, ice, cold towels, whatever you might be able to do. If you see a runner struggling, ask if they are okay. The anticipated heat is going to be intense and below is a message from the Boston Athletic Association.

Advisory From Boston Marathon Medical Directors to Entrants in the 2012 Boston Marathon
Saturday, April 14, 2012 as of 11:30 a.m.

We are looking closely at the current weather situation which is projected to be quite warm. The B.A.A. is closely monitoring this situation for for race day decisions. If the temperatures reach certain levels, running will put even the most fit athletes at risk for heat injury.

We are now making the recommendation that if you are not highly fit or if you have any underlying medical conditions (for example-cardiac disease, pulmonary disease or any of a number of medical problems), you should NOT run this race.

Inexperienced marathoners should not run.

Those who have only trained in a cooler climate and who may not be acclimated (for at least the last 10 days) to warm weather running conditions should also consider not running.

For those very fit athletes who decide to run, you should take significant precautions:

Run at a slower pace and maintain hydration.
You should frequently take breaks by walking instead of running.

This will not be a day to run a personal best. If you choose to run, run safely above all else. Speed can kill.

Heat stroke is a serious issue and is related to intensity of running as well as the heat and humidity.

Good hydration is important but over hydration can also be a problem. Thirst is an indication that you are under-hydrated. You should maintain hydration levels slightly greater than your hydration program in your training, but not excessively so.

Even the fittest athletes, that take precautions can still suffer serious heat illness. Recognizing symptoms of heat illness in yourself and others is critical , this may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, fatigue, nausea and vomiting. If you experience any of these, stop running immediately and if symptoms persist seek medical attention.

Boston Marathon Co-Medical Directors,
Dr. Pierre d’Hemecourt and Dr. Sophia Dyer

On April 9, 2012 By The Running Griffin1 Comment

Please consider supporting this awesome cause and get a great tech shirt to train in, as well!

Cape Cod Highland Lighthouse Annual Road Race: Register Today!

On March 31, 2012March 31, 2012 By The Running GriffinLeave a comment

One of the best things about the summer is being able to head down to Cape Cod and race along the Atlantic Ocean. The Cape has several amazing road races and this year I am heading down to Truro to take part in the Cape Cod Highland Lighthouse Annual Road Race for the first time ever.

Cape Cod’s oldest lighthouse, locally known as the Highland Light, is officially named “Cape Cod Light” on the NOAA nautical chart for the region. It sits perched 120 feet above the ocean in the Highlands of Truro. Its beam shines 174 ft. above sea level to give mariners warning of the treacherous sandbars off this shore. The Cape Cod Highland Lighthouse is a major attraction for visitors to Cape Cod.

The race takes part on Memorial Day weekend on Saturday, May 26th and has a nice early start at 9AM which allows you to enjoy the rest of the day. Included in the race fee is a free tour of the historic lighthouse.

Register today for the Cape Cod Highland Lighthouse Annual Road Race today by clicking here or online here and I will see you there on race day.

Marathon Training Proves that Feet Matter: Welcome FootMatters!

On March 26, 2012March 26, 2012 By The Running GriffinLeave a comment

If you have ever trained for a marathon you likely have noticed that you start to feel pain in new spots that you didn’t previously notice pain creeping in. After a long run, perhaps your back or hips might bother, your knee might feel a little tender after running 18 miles or perhaps your feet are just plain old tired after pounding on the pavement for a while. While having a good pair of sneakers is essential, having proper orthotic inserts also can go a really long way. I recently came across the brand FootMatters and have noticed some marked improvements in my during-run gait, less pain while out on the run and quicker recovery time after my long runs.

The FootMatters orthotics prides themselves on providing the right arch stabilization to provide runners with better in-run impact and thereby resulting in less pain. Whether you are training for a 5k or a marathon, these orthotics are comfortable and effective and provide great support. Having previously completed a marathon, I truly feel as though my training this time around has been improved thanks to the utilization of FootMatters.

FootMatters are quite reasonably priced and I can assure you that for the asking price it is far less than the deductible I paid when I had an arthroscope done on my knee a few years back. Do yourself a favor and listen to your achy back, sore knee or tired feet and purchase a pair of FootMatters today. You won’t be disappointed!