Soldiering on

I ran my first 10-miler of the year this past Memorial Day weekend. I love this race because it's my own official and unofficial kick-off to birthday celebrations. Going into it I wasn't feeling prepared, physically or mentally. My running for the three weeks prior to race day consisted of a handful of 4-5 milers. Not quiet the training for a 10mile race, or is it? There's so much to be said for the power of momentum. It was an awesome race! While I wasn't feeling the most prepared it was very important to show up and run this race. It's a favorite, and because I missed it last year I soooo wanted to run it this year.

My strategy was to take it nice & easy. Well, that, and to trail other runners for inspiration. It worked! For the first 3-4 miles a woman wearing a gray t-shirt carrying her own water bottle became a pseudo pacer for me. I lost her when I walked through an aid station. For the rest of the race I trailed a women who was wearing blue shorts. She was running with a friend, and it looked liked she was pacing her friend too. Did I mentioned that it worked?! My pace was super consistent the entire race, I didn't even stop once except for walking through aid stations. I will have to employ this strategy for longer races, my final time was almost 2 minutes faster than when I ran this race 2 years ago, woo hoo! I hope to have some pics up soon.

Made in Puerto Rico

I love this show. Don't miss your chance to experience this hilarious one-man show! Final 9 shows this June at the CCPA. Here's the info:

“Made in Puerto Rico"
written, directed and performed by Elizardi Castro
executive producer, Mike Oquendo

Mikey O Comedy Productions proudly announces the encore presentation of “Made in Puerto Rico” for June 2009. Puerto Rican actor and comedian Elizardi Castro returns to the stage with his one-man show for a final engagement of 9 performances. This marks the third time Elizardi Castro takes centerstage at the Chicago Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 the night of the performances at the Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, 777 N. Green Street, Chicago. For tickets and schedule visit www.theaterland.com.

Don’t miss this hilarious theatrical experience for the entire family!

June 5, 6, 7
June 12, 13, 14
June 19, 20 and 21

“Made in Puerto Rico,” previously sold-out in February and March, is Elizardi Castro’s commentary of his Puerto Rican experience. Elizardi uses his collection of stories and memories to share his experience of a Puerto Rican living in the United States. His first one-man show “Malcria’o” gave him the opportunity to follow through on his dream to tell the story of who he is. “Made in Puerto Rico” continues the storytelling with a bolder sense of culture and the importance of passing on those traditions that make up the Puerto Rican experience. Elizardi Castro shares being made in Puerto Rico with candor and expressive humor.

Tix at www.theaterland.com
$12 in advance ($15 at the door)
For info: www.mikeyocomedy.com or 877-70-COMEDY

Chicago Center for the Performing Arts
777 N. Green Street, Chicago

Can't wait!!