tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-399694565421583902024-02-19T02:12:53.669-05:00TEAM #Run3rd“I run 1st for myself, I run 2nd for my family, I #run3rd for you.” —Sean Astin, running, marathon, 5K, 10K, dedications.Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.comBlogger146125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-60417374161092266502021-05-07T16:07:00.004-04:002021-05-07T16:22:23.302-04:00Run3rd Alliance Virtual 5K Signup<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b> Visit: "<a href="https://run3rdalliance.com" target="_blank">Run3rd Alliance Website</a>" to sign up for May 8 Virtual 5K! </b></span></p>Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-7577261358022238042017-05-17T05:44:00.000-04:002017-05-17T05:53:03.838-04:00Wristbands & tattoos & running oh my<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhahZoa7Svb46Owk7apUmw_ym89slUigo_dx0fM8XPZ2ldpstPSYCH9OGV28NlvmimcYhtkLgWkTwFVVbdR0uaGwaupygcHfA1sxIZFAPBjIrtU3OU8sGRnpwokjs0PiHlNHwNKNMY/s1600/18527677_10211429547968754_5434816555278542987_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhahZoa7Svb46Owk7apUmw_ym89slUigo_dx0fM8XPZ2ldpstPSYCH9OGV28NlvmimcYhtkLgWkTwFVVbdR0uaGwaupygcHfA1sxIZFAPBjIrtU3OU8sGRnpwokjs0PiHlNHwNKNMY/s400/18527677_10211429547968754_5434816555278542987_n.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">Too lazy to go into the other room to get my #Run3rd </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">Hat. So hat hair... oh well... </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">Here is a stack of #Run3rd Wristbands that are always on my shelf. Probably should be on people's wrists, I'll get to that. My temporary #Run3rd tattoo wore off. It was a little too big, but I miss seeing it every day. Perhaps I shall order more—where did I put that info? Hmmm, oh well, after a wildly cogent if not succinctly <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/run3rd/permalink/1305261162926748/" target="_blank">rambling post</a> on the Run3rd FB page earlier, I thought I'd share a little of the #Run3r</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">d panache.</span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span>
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">I'm totally dreading tonight's run. That usually means it's gonna be great. But, now that I say that the law of opposites, or is it murphy...? My last two runs were bloated train wrecks. I think fondly of 5 days ago when I powered through that 11 miler... or was that yesterday... or February...</span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span>
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">#Run3rd for my brother-in-law Dave who is in town and my brother David Astin who is also in town and named David. RAMBLING....</span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span><span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">Much love always,</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">Sean </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">via <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/run3rd/permalink/1305861846200013/" target="_blank">Run3rd Facebook page</a></span></span>Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-47788991550031423232016-10-09T20:14:00.000-04:002017-05-18T18:49:58.208-04:00Sean Astin's Portland Marathon Race ReportSubmitted by Sean Astin, <a href="http://twitter.com/seanastin" target="_blank">@SeanAstin</a><br />
<br />
<div class="_5pbx userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="js_3f" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.38; overflow: hidden;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px;">
Finished my 12th full Marathon. The weather in Portland was Perfectly Portland...Rainy and Chilly with occasional Wind. Loved it!!!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px;">
At the expo yesterday, I made the point that, "you can't fake a Marathon." It's so true. 26.2 miles is a no joke distance. You can suck in your gut for a selfie, but today, the Marathon knew exactly how much I weigh. It's one thing to know that I'm carrying an extra 30+ pounds. The road is...unforgiving. I've been a long distance runner for most of my life. Today, I had to pay the piper :-)))</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPaRE_7KNiK_hQ12Mb6kSt0RGAPXg-Lyv6W_xZtxU8yVetdZnpZguoajmVsd49glhYfV8NNPnfIY1TwPITUlpN0ixYY9cPpOUghnEquMzXiyF3Eh2tsTCYD2Jf6wqtTGluCLoRJUE/s1600/finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPaRE_7KNiK_hQ12Mb6kSt0RGAPXg-Lyv6W_xZtxU8yVetdZnpZguoajmVsd49glhYfV8NNPnfIY1TwPITUlpN0ixYY9cPpOUghnEquMzXiyF3Eh2tsTCYD2Jf6wqtTGluCLoRJUE/s640/finish.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a>I expected to run the race in 5 hours and 30 minutes. Pretty modest goal, but given my current body composition, the limited amount of training miles and my primary goal of arriving today uninjured (slow training miles) it was an experienced target.<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
My friend Jeff Galloway has a tried and true race technology for "average" runners...runners like me. I observed consistent Walk/Run intervals (30 seconds run - 30 seconds walk). Things were going great for the first 15 miles. I wasn't setting any land speed records, but my splits were consistent. Then came the 150ft climb to the St. John's bridge. My plan broke down. I had been occasionally breaking the intervals and would "run the course." Meaning, if I had a long downhill grade, I'd run through the walk breaks. The hill got me. I didn't want to walk the whole thing and drop my average mile per hour rate. So, I chugged up it. My legs were burnt out by the time I crested the not-very-big hill. Having dropped a few seconds (overall average per mile), I tried to hustle and make it up on the downhill. Errrrzzz (buzzer sound)... That mile compromised the rest of the run for me.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
The good news was that I made lots of friends as I walked/ran through the beautiful Portland neighborhoods.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
There is one really special moment to share. My Step-Dad tweeted some encouraging words to me before the race. He has maintained my Mom's @PATTYDUKE_ID handle. He signs his tweets with his name, to make sure that no-one mistakenly thinks that she is Tweeting from beyond. I've attached his tweet here. Basically, he said that my Mom was watching over me today and if I felt a nudge, it was her.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxdpTP5VD7m7UFOufVPXzjCKugjVdi7CFuQ0hoT9MOGigXgSyJ99yWS0HO9YgEWWM6famLOEwPfK4sTVzcrE6F1OZFmxHcb7QA6bVwwl81VJNGSbUUq0bS2yXQ5N8N5uzLf_z9MlM/s1600/Mike+%2526+Anna.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxdpTP5VD7m7UFOufVPXzjCKugjVdi7CFuQ0hoT9MOGigXgSyJ99yWS0HO9YgEWWM6famLOEwPfK4sTVzcrE6F1OZFmxHcb7QA6bVwwl81VJNGSbUUq0bS2yXQ5N8N5uzLf_z9MlM/s400/Mike+%2526+Anna.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
So, around mile 12 or so, I look up at the little mountain to my left. It was raining and clouds were kissing the pine trees on the hill. Wow! It looked exactly like the mountain behind my Mom's house in Coeur 'D Alene, Idaho. I mean...exactly alike. It is all the pacific north west, so, that makes sense. I thought about Mike's tweet. I looked to the heavens and thought, ok Mom, are you with me? I could use that nudge. I smiled at the thought and opened my heart to the possibility. Suddenly, shockingly, as if dropped by angels onto the course in front of me, 8 Scottish men, clad in their Kilts, blew their pipes. You have to understand, Bagpipes were my Mom's spiritual touchstone. We come from Country Cork or is it County Longfellow...whatever... Our Irish heritage (different country but just go with...she did). At my Grandmother's Funeral, Her Mom...she had a man play the pipes. She sobbed. We all did. At my Moms funeral this year, the service ended with a traditional BagPipe Player, leading the procession. BAGPIPES. RIGHT THERE AT MILE WHATEVER...12, 13...can't remember... On cue, right when I looked to the heavens to wink at my Mom and have her wink back.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
I'm old enough now, and in touch with my spiritual core that I didn't question the dynamic for a moment. Just smiled, touched my heart and thanked God for that grace.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
Then came the pain. Step by step, my legs became heavy, and the sharp shooters as I call them (pain spasms, not snipers) progressed. I smiled at 17 remembering that I choose this pain and a little chuckle goes a long way.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
Someone saw me grimace and asked how I was doing. I told him that we don't speak of anything that may be going wrong until after the finish line. He smiled.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
Around 20 miles this lady started screaming...proper, loud, tail gate at a Ducks Game screaming...AT ME!!! Her husbands favorite movie is Rudy. We took a selfie. Her friends and I took selfies. When you are chugging along at the pace I was running, lots of people come up for selfies. We dosey-doe'd with screaming gal for a mile or two. I don't know from where her energy sprang, after 5 hours of hard labor. "I just love running" she answered. At one point, she sees a friend and starts screaming again that <span class="highlightNode" style="background-color: rgba(88, 144, 255, 0.14902); border-bottom-color: rgba(88, 144, 255, 0.298039); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; padding: 0px 1px;">Sean Astin</span> is right back there...she was "winning" in our little pack. I trotted up to her and pointed my bony finger at her and said, "so help me, if you draw a bunch of attention to me and I don't finish under 6 hours, I'm coming to your house!!!"</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuttxkfkTeNIQAhbmkfzJ_V_760GHsH8u7v_L_lgeYuUdaq5XPkB4HXMEYDFNzFCDPq_-XD7vVkzWmWe9NHaf23ZaWb6V-24w-d1KCsjCc9Stx_hyumj12tSfiMGcjo6yPLLpbHc/s1600/times.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuttxkfkTeNIQAhbmkfzJ_V_760GHsH8u7v_L_lgeYuUdaq5XPkB4HXMEYDFNzFCDPq_-XD7vVkzWmWe9NHaf23ZaWb6V-24w-d1KCsjCc9Stx_hyumj12tSfiMGcjo6yPLLpbHc/s320/times.jpg" width="237" /></a>I hadn't thought through that threat. She was like, "cool, I have beer." I finished at 5 hours and 55 minutes and 56 seconds. I'm not sure if I'm supposed to head over to their place. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
A nice gal whose name I can't remember now (shame on me...Christina, Kelly...can't remember)... She asked if she could run with me to the finish. Yikes, my legs were in so much pain, I think I was going to start fudging my intervals and now she was going to keep me honest? Ok, I said. And we ran the last 10k...at least that much, maybe more. She was really nice and we talked about all kinds of stuff. I can't remember what, because I'm pretty sure I was hallucinating the last few miles.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
Another gal came up after mile 25 and said that her Dad just died and he made her watch Rudy a lot. The three of us and this big dude, made up our minds to cross the finish line together. I think we did. The finish line picture isn't clear...they were just off to the right.<br />
<br />
There it is. I'm back. I can't walk now, but I'm back. All things considered, it was another magical day of long distance running. Remember, Oregon is the Rose City. The Finisher Medal and the Event Coin (loving that new trend) have an elegant Rose. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpIjRd-ekVzluJDNn-HXlTUtjOIa2KZFpnYQ1RM468JGVZJaNMdD2yTugT6Slxn_O0_lGEtQq_LmnG-UrK02w6hw3FKixgFodk1JK1cslsS5ubRszoqTuGVq_wYHv5zJICDruEd2o/s1600/just+resting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpIjRd-ekVzluJDNn-HXlTUtjOIa2KZFpnYQ1RM468JGVZJaNMdD2yTugT6Slxn_O0_lGEtQq_LmnG-UrK02w6hw3FKixgFodk1JK1cslsS5ubRszoqTuGVq_wYHv5zJICDruEd2o/s640/just+resting.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
I'd offer special thanks to Les, the Race Director and everyone who welcomed me to the event. Thanks to the people of Oregon who came out and performed music, cheered, volunteered and made the whole day possible.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
A lot of people responded, here on Facebook and on Twitter and Instagram, to my request for <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/run3rd?source=feed_text&story_id=1313651475322638" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;"><span class="_5afx" style="direction: ltr;"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl _5afz" style="color: #4267b2;">#</span><span class="_58cm">Run3rd</span></span></a> dedications. I read them before I raced, and many of them flashed through my heart as I raced.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxbA7RifgbwADLZTEl06NIFKt_8IfsqSmEp9cue3ysqxpUthRML1JSSajX3Sf7dfDslCLMvsYiYwDuJU8rp8jnYMowTTaawLg_CsrxkhUsHv2OQKQc6ilWUHwJh6QTWw_5psmZYjE/s1600/medal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxbA7RifgbwADLZTEl06NIFKt_8IfsqSmEp9cue3ysqxpUthRML1JSSajX3Sf7dfDslCLMvsYiYwDuJU8rp8jnYMowTTaawLg_CsrxkhUsHv2OQKQc6ilWUHwJh6QTWw_5psmZYjE/s320/medal.jpg" width="320" /></a>Thank you all for keeping my #Run3rd inspirational DEDICATIONS campaign alive. I hope you ask your friends, family and social media peeps to make Dedications that you can hold in your heart when you run.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
Today's Portland Marathon is actually my Long Training Run, just a month before the New York City Marathon in November. Hopefully, I'll heal quickly and train (TAPER) for the next few weeks.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
Until then, I #Run3rd for YOU!!!<br />
Much Love Always,<br />
Sean</div>
<div style="display: inline; margin-top: 6px;">
Also, not for nothing, if you remember that my Mom, Patty Duke was a champion for Mental Health issues, we are starting a foundation to continue her work... you can donate at <a href="http://inmemoryofpattyduke.com/" target="_blank">InMemoryofPattyDuke.com</a></div>
</div>
<div class="_3x-2" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
<div data-ft="{"tn":"H"}">
<div class="mtm" style="margin-top: 10px;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-44980406129888659532016-04-29T13:23:00.000-04:002016-04-29T17:15:40.885-04:00Tracy Burwell's 2nd Run3rd 5K Race ReportSubmitted by Tracy Burwell, <a href="http://twitter.com/ATurtlesPace" target="_blank">@ATurtlesPace</a><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxLXdQT_aFk6wv-h-ODMh7ckq7djlP0vbYbjXhxv5qxfSkoaaMJ5_m9wRkE2S80a70jO7_EVrX4lWWzsFlbFVCqNdUoEh9mjCKQCASC-xBUpkuDXdHmbW9W81N9abTm1OHmlw8mI/s1600/IMG_2981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxLXdQT_aFk6wv-h-ODMh7ckq7djlP0vbYbjXhxv5qxfSkoaaMJ5_m9wRkE2S80a70jO7_EVrX4lWWzsFlbFVCqNdUoEh9mjCKQCASC-xBUpkuDXdHmbW9W81N9abTm1OHmlw8mI/s320/IMG_2981.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tracy Burwell and Sean Astin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It was no surprise that the #Run3rd 5k was once again such a huge success!<br />
<br />
As I stood on the field on race day just as the sun came up, it was clear that #Run3rd was no longer just an idea. #Run3rd had become a living, growing, breathing thing, flourishing with every step and dedication. Hundreds of people of all ages traveled from miles around to the 2nd Annual #Run3rd 5k. Inspiration and dedications were everywhere! The #Run3rd message was ringing out loud and clear, from the very first runner to the final finisher! It was such an honor to be even a small part of such an incredibly special day.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Kris and Mindy managed once again to organize a flawless event. I’m not sure how they manage to make it all happen, but I think there may be some magic involved! Speaking of magic, as I stood with my daughter Dawnley Raices, attaching our patches, I looked up and there was Sean Astin standing next to me! I immediately removed my patch and pinned it over his heart in honor of his mother. Running has always been our happy place so I was glad he was able to run with all of us that day after all. It was touching to watch him write “My Mom” on his visor as he dedicated his race to her. He spoke to the crowd and held a moment of silence for his mother just before the start of the race.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiinXPQkDU6xD-DxhOj-8PVemA_fgrXQvDpj3PsUefacPdQM9cCi42fciy-D0uOAd1KkjyQO07ISpkiOSgaUAqBtGSR-sYI9o61TRxriShLAPMSoO9I9SFjFvxy6-vnVdEUnL7S4RM/s1600/Run3rd5k2016-307-X2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiinXPQkDU6xD-DxhOj-8PVemA_fgrXQvDpj3PsUefacPdQM9cCi42fciy-D0uOAd1KkjyQO07ISpkiOSgaUAqBtGSR-sYI9o61TRxriShLAPMSoO9I9SFjFvxy6-vnVdEUnL7S4RM/s400/Run3rd5k2016-307-X2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
We all took off at the sound of the horn with our dedications and goal to complete the 3.1 mile course. Along the way I had the pleasure of running with a couple of little girls that Lupe Steele and I found huffing and puffing along the way. Together we were able to teach them the fine art of the 1:1 interval run/walk. They were amazed how well it worked and made it to the finish without a problem! Another inspirational moment was found while walking in with a group of captains as we encourage the final runner to the finish. Fast or slow we are all out there together. We start together, so we finish together. I have always felt compassion for the individuals at the end of the pack. No one should ever finish a race alone. Incidentally, the runners towards the back of the pack, often have the best stories of courage and determination.<br />
<br />
The race day ended with a much unexpected surprise! Sean and the Team awarded me the #Run3rd Hero award. It is a beautiful crystal sculpture that makes rainbows when the sun shines through it. To me it represents every one of you and the love and support you have shown me, especially over the past year as I have struggled to keep running with my Meniere’s disease diagnosis. Thank you one and all Team #Run3rd for never giving up on me. What amazes me the most about #Run3rd is that 3 years ago I set out to encourage and inspire all of you! But as it turned out, you all are the ones that encouraged and inspired me!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MbzvJHeayCk?list=PL9p-adIslbSsPSQlCHJ6ag93jfRBrglhG" width="640"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
I hope to see all of you again next year at the 3rd Annual #Run3rd 5k! Until then, let’s keep inspiring one another, remember iron sharpens iron! And make every step count, for even the smallest step will move you forward!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-13386323327019605522016-04-28T13:00:00.000-04:002016-04-28T13:00:03.851-04:00Dawnley Raices 2nd Run3rd 5K Race ReportSubmitted by Dawnley Burwell Raices, <a href="http://twitter.com/Hipster_Runner" target="_blank">@Hipster_Runner</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyRDUqIPbkz-1iYiLsUzEkiHD1jtR09A-7sAdC-uZmW40UKkq0JanzRCM8COn6O_3NqKCODsjAt_MgE4gx6-y5D96k8Vm5fEbow-bOcIMgD0x-RQ644Ba0NgzYiMINSNY0AuFMrE/s1600/IMG_1069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyRDUqIPbkz-1iYiLsUzEkiHD1jtR09A-7sAdC-uZmW40UKkq0JanzRCM8COn6O_3NqKCODsjAt_MgE4gx6-y5D96k8Vm5fEbow-bOcIMgD0x-RQ644Ba0NgzYiMINSNY0AuFMrE/s320/IMG_1069.jpg" width="304" /></a></div>
No sleep, two overnight shifts at work and quite a few hours of driving… #RUN3RD 5K, LETS DO THIS!!!<br />
<br />
We arrived a day early to help with packet pickup, which is one of my favorite parts! It's wonderful meeting the participants, especially the younger ones who have so much enthusiasm when sharing the message of #Run3rd! I met some incredible pint-sized athletes as well as heard stories of how they encouraged their parents to run, or people that have lost large amounts of weight because they started running. I could make this whole report about them, just know they are amazing humans and I’m so lucky to have been able to chat with them for a few moments while grabbing their race bib.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Race morning was full of laughs with friends and captains that came in from out of town for this race, lots of running around before the real “running” part even started and a little bit of periscoping. I was chatting with my mom and turned to see Sean Astin standing there… What was he doing here? He had told us months ago he wouldn't be here, not to mention he had been dealing with a lot that week due to the passing of his wonderful mom, Anna, aka Patty Duke. He was here because this is his cause, and sometimes when you're in mourning, being around those that care about you is the best medicine. I couldn't agree more. We said our Hellos, and without missing a moment he gives me his phone and says, “You Periscope, right?” Yup, I do… and that was my job for the next hour. [<a href="https://youtu.be/K5N6NK2ZYeY" target="_blank">Watch the Periscope video here!]</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNHlx94pDBhN13iadmgmVDEvGI_0iDMRqpqFTz1adOoV3xDRbWvSLye5kmRFddmy3sivcyWOBmsvzOePC3ipfW-b6ZylvPUAnbn56BYT0U0eIocvA80MOIoe8dIUUhBY32On_Jx-o/s1600/12952900_1001282133261128_1631396202_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNHlx94pDBhN13iadmgmVDEvGI_0iDMRqpqFTz1adOoV3xDRbWvSLye5kmRFddmy3sivcyWOBmsvzOePC3ipfW-b6ZylvPUAnbn56BYT0U0eIocvA80MOIoe8dIUUhBY32On_Jx-o/s320/12952900_1001282133261128_1631396202_o.jpg" width="320" /></a>
Sean cares so much about this group and wants to share the message of #Run3rd with the world.. which is exactly what we did at 7:30am on a Saturday. Not going to lie, it was pretty fun! Not as much fun as running the race and seeing so many familiar faces though! I cheered the whole time, ran with some of Mindy’s students, one of whom was ahead of me and said, “Oh there you are!” as if she had been waiting for me to catch up. We ran together for a bit before we parted ways to cheer on other runnings. Its moments like that one that will always stick with me from the race. Fast, slow, young, old, were all here for the same reason. Not to win, but to have fun and be healthy.<br />
<br />
Last year, a few of us after finishing went to find the last runner and walk in with them. We did this again this year, not for us to feel good about ourselves, but to show them that they are so much more powerful than they know. We played “Eye of the Tiger” as she rounded the final corner, and she was met by Sean at the finish line to give her a well-deserved hug and medal!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDNLnxLoXukeDZlPCSLGjjTqgyo71giAHh2ZnJj3euoQt8mILnyqfXrQCSB6HCLtsj2SJINyXIBpx368l3ZFMyY1utqbwZ9u5laNdXrnnWR1LSYIs4_ziRVPBSUTHdNfVWgbZaeCg/s1600/IMG_1101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDNLnxLoXukeDZlPCSLGjjTqgyo71giAHh2ZnJj3euoQt8mILnyqfXrQCSB6HCLtsj2SJINyXIBpx368l3ZFMyY1utqbwZ9u5laNdXrnnWR1LSYIs4_ziRVPBSUTHdNfVWgbZaeCg/s320/IMG_1101.jpg" width="320" /></a>After the running portion was over, awards were being given out and Sean called all of his Captains and Loyals up to the front. He gave a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbzvJHeayCk" target="_blank">beautiful speech talking about power through life obstacles and what it takes to be a Hero</a>. He presented the very first #Run3rd Hero award to my mom, Tracy Burwell!! Not many of us knew about , because, let's be honest, a few of us wouldn't have been able to keep the secret. Sean and Mom hugged, the rest of us cried… I was so proud of my mom and to see how much she affects those around her. I mean, I know she is a Hero, but I’m glad it is now official.. Looks like she is going to need a cape next. :)<br />
<br />
Laughs, high fives, sweat, sun…so much sun…a few happy tears and encouragement for all! That pretty much sums up this race for me. Already looking forward to next year!<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D39969456542158390%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dheader&media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-Y3wAb2XHauo%2FVyETxHguXAI%2FAAAAAAAAOYo%2FoqiscuFxgQs9V7jtiRyMWeLv2tigmMJEgCLcB%2Fs320%2FIMG_1069.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=KG6fAi7f3eGg&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 375px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 54px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D39969456542158390%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dheader&media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-Y3wAb2XHauo%2FVyETxHguXAI%2FAAAAAAAAOYo%2FoqiscuFxgQs9V7jtiRyMWeLv2tigmMJEgCLcB%2Fs320%2FIMG_1069.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=KG6fAi7f3eGg&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 375px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 54px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-18447412731680603992016-04-27T13:15:00.000-04:002016-04-27T13:15:45.541-04:00Brandy Placencia's 2nd Run3rd 5K Race ReportSubmitted by Brandy Placencia, <a href="http://twitter.com/anjenaca" target="_blank">@anjenaca</a><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_z4ltdDTk_rtVTY93A-VtWri5MAxx1DiknsP9ltqYAt718F1trscvnpgUypCdf5PEDtAg16HjBy94qY53nG5utkWqrreEPzuXf6bi-qO2GgDiDatEOAJXhvZ0aHashXtmX3goyg8/s1600/Run3rd5k2016-BrandyGabriel.FinishLine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_z4ltdDTk_rtVTY93A-VtWri5MAxx1DiknsP9ltqYAt718F1trscvnpgUypCdf5PEDtAg16HjBy94qY53nG5utkWqrreEPzuXf6bi-qO2GgDiDatEOAJXhvZ0aHashXtmX3goyg8/s400/Run3rd5k2016-BrandyGabriel.FinishLine.jpg" width="337" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brandy & Gabriel Placencia at finish line!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I almost didn’t go to the 2nd #run3rd 5k in Arizona. I was extremely burnt out from Girl Scouts and just did not have much energy. When I heard of Anna "Patty Duke" Pearce’s passing I knew I needed to be there. She meant so much to all of us. I have been a fan of hers for as long as I can remember and read her book “Call Me Anna” a few times. Suffering from Severe Social Anxiety that also causes bouts of depression, her book helped me feel like I wasn’t alone back before the explosion on the internet.<br />
<br />
After getting to Mesa and seeing everyone, I was so happy that I had made the trip. This was the first time getting to see the other #run3rd Captains that I didn’t have an anxiety attack. I am so happy that my sister Cheyanne got me into this a few years back.<br />
<br />
Race morning was perfect weather although I would have preferred some clouds to block the sun. We were pleasantly surprised when we saw that our fearless leader Sean Astin had made it to the race that morning. After a bunch of picture taking and a speech from Sean, the race was on.<br />
<br />
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect since last year I had walked the entire race with my sister, but I had brought my Jeff Galloway Run/Walk timer, and with the flat course was excited to get a good time. Unfortunately, thanks to 3 months of Girl Scout Cookie Hell, lack of training and a higher altitude than I’m used to, I felt exhausted from the start. In the last mile I almost quit to a slow walk when I realized I was actually about to catch up with Sean so I pushed harder.<br />
<br />
I finished with a time of 45:49 which wasn’t my best but also wasn’t my worst. Overall even though it was the worst I felt during a race, I had a great time and look forward to the next one.<br />
<br />
Brandy Placencia<br />
April 19, 2016Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-56560555641726755022016-04-25T13:01:00.000-04:002016-04-25T13:01:59.193-04:00Mindy Przeor's 2nd Run3rd 5K race reportSubmitted by Mindy Przeor, <a href="http://twitter.com/RaceEveryStep" target="_blank">@RaceEveryStep</a><br />
<br />
Any time I take a moment to reflect on our 2nd annual #RUN3rd 5k, I am overwhelmed by feelings of gratitude, love and pride. When we decided to make this an annual event, I was worried about how our 2nd year would compare to the first. There were so many special things about the inaugural event that we wouldn't be able to duplicate or compare to. We knew our challenge this year would be to keep the momentum going and grow our local #RUN3rd community with the help of our amazing Captains and Loyals from around the world.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVcJnbNPaNxPdkvSI_wZXEzGCCZnDJOvxZUeLdZNni41AOlEsWFOT-IqxRk71Pb4b0x6H1VpcuENywwWvso4Lhax8nbxFXCw01XLpWEU0Gs3xau43bW32Nacj5M_dr-yEbzQnbNBY/s1600/image1+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVcJnbNPaNxPdkvSI_wZXEzGCCZnDJOvxZUeLdZNni41AOlEsWFOT-IqxRk71Pb4b0x6H1VpcuENywwWvso4Lhax8nbxFXCw01XLpWEU0Gs3xau43bW32Nacj5M_dr-yEbzQnbNBY/s640/image1+2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sean Astin and the Brinton families</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a name='more'></a>One thing I'm grateful for is the effect our inaugural event had on our Brinton community. Thanks to the positive experience our crew has last year, our running club doubled in size this year, and we tripled the amount of Brinton community members participating in the 5k. In addition, thanks to our past success and positive reviews, we had a much bigger turnout from other Mesa schools and local community members. It's working: we are reaching more after-school running programs and we can't wait to continue the growth next year!<br />
<br />
I have so much love for #RUN3rd and this community that has become our family, and this event magnifies that emotion. I love that we had 150 kids out there running the 5k, and even more, I love that parents felt safe letting their kids participate. Thank you for creating a welcoming, friendly and safe environment for our kids! I love that we had 400 people come out to participate because they wanted to be there supporting the event (even though we thought Sean Astin wasn't going to be able to make it). Everyone was there for the right reason and some people traveled a long distance to show their support. Thank you! I love that hundreds of people support us virtually from around the globe even though they can't be here in person. Thank you virtual runners—you have no idea the impact you have on all of us! I love how positive the event is. You can see it in the smiles on everyone's faces in the pictures. You can see it in the way people interact with one another and the number of hugs that go around. You can see it in the generosity towards the fundraising effort. And most importantly, you can see it in the group effort to get everyone across the finish line. Thank you for being kind and supportive to EVERYONE!!! And I love that this event means so much to Sean that he makes every effort to join us. It was an awesome surprise when he showed up, despite all he had going on. Thanks Sean!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUQALA5lNg4ViXJOg3VxTsECkGilbWSmk2qweyJbwTVT4_woWXc7S0ERx3Kkrtr1aUoMoDf4QQJ3SWmCfhncH4qUbZ9C53vzgTkcF-2IJC1ftOGWI1hKnGi4l5mrS7MuIEd_3AW2A/s1600/image2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUQALA5lNg4ViXJOg3VxTsECkGilbWSmk2qweyJbwTVT4_woWXc7S0ERx3Kkrtr1aUoMoDf4QQJ3SWmCfhncH4qUbZ9C53vzgTkcF-2IJC1ftOGWI1hKnGi4l5mrS7MuIEd_3AW2A/s320/image2.jpeg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mindy Przeor & mom, Marilyn Enloe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This was a super special moment for me with my mom, Marilyn Enloe. Last year's event was her first 5k ever—she walked it with her friend. This year her friend was unable to join her due to a recent foot surgery so my mom came to donut on her own. She cut over 5 minutes off her time and come in 2nd in her age group. Our phenomenal emcee, Richelle Melde, had us tearing up as she spoke about mothers and had me join my mom on the podium.<br />
<br />
I'm so proud to be part of the #RUN3rd community and honored to be able to host this event with Kris. We definitely couldn't do it on our own, and truly hope we can continue to make it something you are proud of as well!<br />
<br />
Words can't express the gratitude I have for the support we get from all of you. #RUN3rd has changed my life and created an amazing community for our kids to grow up in and learn from! From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!<br />
<br />
#RUN3rd!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3YTwjKUvehmrBCfhCcLmlwIscXYGmQ0pkc8-N39K2YODmUDQ4HcaCMHEHog5GTGnmYTBidgjQl2q10lz2LUBDTBbFPMZ9kO29Q0pEzZiKtvErBY-gOZA8gLm0im-Yc2W_xUxGbo/s1600/image1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3YTwjKUvehmrBCfhCcLmlwIscXYGmQ0pkc8-N39K2YODmUDQ4HcaCMHEHog5GTGnmYTBidgjQl2q10lz2LUBDTBbFPMZ9kO29Q0pEzZiKtvErBY-gOZA8gLm0im-Yc2W_xUxGbo/s640/image1.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">❤️ this and greatly appreciate all </span><a href="https://bertjonesphotography.smugmug.com/Sports/Run3rd5k-2016/" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">Bert Jones Photography</a><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> does for us on race day!!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-65154665064996651602016-04-24T16:22:00.000-04:002016-04-24T16:22:05.586-04:00David Hearn's 2nd Run3rd 5K race reportSubmitted by David Hearn, <a href="http://twitter.com/davidhearncsi" target="_blank">@davidhearncsi</a><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Q6XdoXSmRwKZVaM978qzhqweuWlVtxOIKZXOCsZQtcSi9wlVjn7hsKHYdiwFVSWnBrRnDakdLapH_bS4J-74hrN3DEWlaRilNP8mZlI0Lb4an8RnfOM4JcvZ-UTRhWeA0Bmgb8Y/s1600/Sean+%2526+David.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Q6XdoXSmRwKZVaM978qzhqweuWlVtxOIKZXOCsZQtcSi9wlVjn7hsKHYdiwFVSWnBrRnDakdLapH_bS4J-74hrN3DEWlaRilNP8mZlI0Lb4an8RnfOM4JcvZ-UTRhWeA0Bmgb8Y/s320/Sean+%2526+David.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">David Hearn and Sean Astin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The sun was up the sky was blue the drive was long.<br />
<br />
As we pulled up to Red Mountain High School for the 2nd Annual #Run3rd 5k on April 2, 2016, you could feel the energy of the crowd who had come out to participate in this wonderful event. As we worked our way onto the field to pick up our race packet, we were greeted with happy smiling faces, vendor booths, raffle prizes, and most importantly, the school kids. The kids all had their Run3rd shirts on; many had their Run3rd dedications pinned to their backs. You could see their anxious, nervous faces filling with excitement as we got closer to the start of the race.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
For many of the kids this was their first structured running event and our founder Sean Astin spoke to the crowd, with a focus on the kids. It was great to see the excitement on their faces as Sean gave them some pointers on how to complete their first 5k run. With the national anthem beautifully sung, the run was on and the kids were off!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbh1su1np3eGxyQNRhrwSPJVjgDrm5ZUZXuYwau2sMdffEv5DVHUB_35Xyapo5bMJEF65VKszsBZyCMEabZdMmNZ1i4uespWD5e2FemdVrfkjd62pSv9Ng0Gr9OyAp0Ty-pytKZTY/s1600/Tracy+Hero+Award.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbh1su1np3eGxyQNRhrwSPJVjgDrm5ZUZXuYwau2sMdffEv5DVHUB_35Xyapo5bMJEF65VKszsBZyCMEabZdMmNZ1i4uespWD5e2FemdVrfkjd62pSv9Ng0Gr9OyAp0Ty-pytKZTY/s320/Tracy+Hero+Award.JPG" width="278" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our first #Run3rd Hero Award winner, Tracy Burwell</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The course was well laid out and the volunteers made sure you did not get lost and the sun was starting to heat things up. As we completed our run the crowds formed close to the finish line cheering and giving words of encouragement to all those who were getting close to the finish line.<br />
<br />
What a great event! What a great cause! I am so happy that my wife and I took the time to come to Mesa AZ to experience this event first hand. Meeting the #Run3rd team members, meeting Sean, celebrating the first #Run3rd Hero with Tracy it just doesn’t get any better than this.<br />
<br />
You meet the nicest people in the desert.<br />
<br />
Captain David<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-971387491281882702016-04-23T20:19:00.000-04:002016-04-24T06:28:44.565-04:00Laura Lawson's 2nd #Run3rd 5K Race ReportSubmitted by Laura Lawson, <a href="http://twitter.com/gramma_laura" target="_blank">@gamma_laura</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_TaXlsVwMylC0ctXWpFp7ZSBUaYPcUanHzzLeqTD8tveFqoDbdpL4810iNTQiaz9SGSqOj8hwTHPwI7O52UIjtk_lVDsH75MxAI1Zu_C3DjDgb2laVeh_f_jMxjEC4BGXSsii9Y/s1600/IMG_2863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_TaXlsVwMylC0ctXWpFp7ZSBUaYPcUanHzzLeqTD8tveFqoDbdpL4810iNTQiaz9SGSqOj8hwTHPwI7O52UIjtk_lVDsH75MxAI1Zu_C3DjDgb2laVeh_f_jMxjEC4BGXSsii9Y/s320/IMG_2863.JPG" width="315" /></a></div>
<br />
Two and 1/2 years ago, I was diagnosed with Stage 3C Ovarian Cancer. Prior to that I had started walking 5ks on a regular basis, but my surgery, chemo treatments and ongoing recovery put an end to that. I have struggled to get back into walking, but have felt discouraged by not being able to make much progress either in speed or distance.<br />
<br />
I decided to attend the 2nd annual #Run3rd5K in Mesa, AZ, April 2, 2016, with the idea of supporting others, and walking what I could. I was at peace with this and very happy just to be there. Sharing the event with friends, old and new, is one of the great pleasures of Run3rd!<br />
<br />
Race day was warm with a clear sky with a light breeze. Participants wrote down or in some way assembled the dedications that they would carry. Green ribbons worn in memory of Anna "Patty Duke" Astin and Mental Health Awareness were pinned on.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEini8OFw_Q9mLJLVjZ1spU0AVsvhsuH9JKeseqt1l1SLbQmvTRWgjDbgZxppnGl4wmhlHFmjM-7AhDTPAs1TWmc2dkN45vPRZ0MLwBYO1An2rcjdjfUDQkIDJrsfY7PZbG1uiKINWA/s1600/IMG_2874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEini8OFw_Q9mLJLVjZ1spU0AVsvhsuH9JKeseqt1l1SLbQmvTRWgjDbgZxppnGl4wmhlHFmjM-7AhDTPAs1TWmc2dkN45vPRZ0MLwBYO1An2rcjdjfUDQkIDJrsfY7PZbG1uiKINWA/s320/IMG_2874.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best buds Laura Lawson and Sean Astin!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A ripple of excitement passed through the crowd of friends, Loyals and Run3rders as we realized that our Captain Sean Astin was there. I can't find the words to express my own feelings and experiences with this part.<br />
<br />
Pep talks, intros, a moment of silence in Anna's honor, the National Anthem, and then it was race time.<br />
<br />
My friends, Linda Iroff and Yasmine Matar, had decided to walk with me, sacrificing their own chances of Personal Bests. After watching everyone else start and seeing Sean off to run, we started out on our own no-pressure, comfortable stroll along the course. I gave myself permission to abbreviate the route at whatever point I needed to, and accepted that I would probably be last to finish, if I even did.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcFmWg22wRUgIWZ3jbCUkrJWB-ELIgT6AV5k4G7XXPqxSZU4ijH6VYgBL8gdmXfeBlOpFUE3Vnu501f-cy3fHsyuFhUTa2q7feRZU6keYY9dsBO-WvNOa2xcwdw58NVQlM43lBT0/s1600/IMG_2918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcFmWg22wRUgIWZ3jbCUkrJWB-ELIgT6AV5k4G7XXPqxSZU4ijH6VYgBL8gdmXfeBlOpFUE3Vnu501f-cy3fHsyuFhUTa2q7feRZU6keYY9dsBO-WvNOa2xcwdw58NVQlM43lBT0/s200/IMG_2918.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Directing traffic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As we made our way along the well laid out course, we cheered on others, including the wonderful volunteers! We danced. We took photographs. In general, we enjoyed our trek! Some highlights were the water-distributing robot, the two enthusiastic young men who struck fun poses to point out the way to go, and the "Falcon."<br />
<br />
Excitement built as friends who had already finished started coming back and cheering us on. At one point, close to Mile 3, I realized that I was really going to finish! I was amazed. The energy and outpouring of love on this day had carried me along.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Xl6ji-OTWEcZws6ieqB2_EBtu7BEkeuTOUdAoYN8PJVN7zKKSOlNM9RDao5lPGTGI6fpBrUqbhFxEtnfRmuu-9ZpCZA-x20M3QOKn4-8R5O6NDwV1q-D8RMK-LeF2x2DfFSI7-4/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Xl6ji-OTWEcZws6ieqB2_EBtu7BEkeuTOUdAoYN8PJVN7zKKSOlNM9RDao5lPGTGI6fpBrUqbhFxEtnfRmuu-9ZpCZA-x20M3QOKn4-8R5O6NDwV1q-D8RMK-LeF2x2DfFSI7-4/s200/photo.jpg" width="200" /></a>My emotions in that "home stretch" are indescribable. There are a handful of moments in life that seem to stand still, and forever stand out. That finish with friends is one of those. That moment of Sean Astin putting the finisher medal around my neck…<br />
<br />
My finishing time? 01:05:41.4. I am happy.<br />
<br />
I love the #Run3rd Spirit, and I love my #Run3rd family.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXblLKODRKwdmuYW0DDBUNZhfavqJ51q7UBU3X0hScwJaWErYaq91fr6K-6TqLV2m6HtS-SH6kzdB1IyOjPQFleO1pQ7ptBjIpW_9uwumfHQgh1QQ8GsTUVCSxCpWQ_B2TdxKE4Nw/s1600/Run3rd5k2016-929-X3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXblLKODRKwdmuYW0DDBUNZhfavqJ51q7UBU3X0hScwJaWErYaq91fr6K-6TqLV2m6HtS-SH6kzdB1IyOjPQFleO1pQ7ptBjIpW_9uwumfHQgh1QQ8GsTUVCSxCpWQ_B2TdxKE4Nw/s640/Run3rd5k2016-929-X3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sean Astin accompanies Linda Iroff, Laura Lawson and Yasmine Matar to the finish line.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-53585415489552821442015-10-31T17:17:00.000-04:002018-03-03T05:18:01.225-05:00Sean Astin's Ironman World Championship Triathlon Race ReportSubmitted by Sean Astin <a href="http://twitter.com/seanastin" target="_blank">@SeanAstin</a><br />
<br />
<b>Beyond Victory: The DNA of an Endurance Everyman.</b><br />
<i>A tough look at the guts, gristle and mechanics of my drive to do more.</i><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ3qiL6spBEnJLKMh61SPZjK2kjR6QvHGzxZL1jYK7cQSIgAxpLfatF4xpKe073Nt4hVOQQxmb_S1Nw9ggOIAy7IWXGj2YTESbM8O3sPWuV49IJVRTdg8RETsp2mLifxSLqlJ3p3w/s1600/IMG_8380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ3qiL6spBEnJLKMh61SPZjK2kjR6QvHGzxZL1jYK7cQSIgAxpLfatF4xpKe073Nt4hVOQQxmb_S1Nw9ggOIAy7IWXGj2YTESbM8O3sPWuV49IJVRTdg8RETsp2mLifxSLqlJ3p3w/s320/IMG_8380.JPG" width="320" /></a>Ok, that's a bit of a heavy opener, but I've been dragging my heels on posting a race report for my epic Ironman Championship Triathlon in Kona, Hawaii on October 10th, 2015.<br />
<br />
Why? Well, I've been incredibly focused on the minutia and often esoteric athletic details in my mind and spirit. It will seem silly to many that the impression I give focuses on my feelings about the physical stuff, when I should be happy with having achieved something wonderful regardless of where I "stack up" in the 2000+ field of participants (for the record, at the very bottom—no matter, I FINISHED yaaayyy!!!), or anyone in the sport for that matter. But in a real way, I want to honor the fact that I've earned my way into a legitimate conversation on the topic, and therefore it does matter to me.<br />
<br />
So, for those of you interested in wading into the deep recesses of my post race analysis, please understand that I am forever grateful for all of the joy, health and success that I experienced. My desire to offer encouragement to others, particularly those who don't have athletic ambitions beyond perhaps common sense fitness is in no way diminished. In fact, I hope that people at any phase of health in their life can appreciate that I wish to explore my "failings" (of course they aren't actual failures). I shudder to think that sharing any of my "harsh" self analysis might be construed as anything other that a celebration of my limitations and my earnest desire to understand them better. In the final analysis, I will triumphantly return to my more enlightened modality. I trust that I will gracefully transition into a perspective that understands the context of my experience within a broader social and cultural reality. Meaning, most people don't and won't do Triathlons, and I have much more in common with "normal" exercisers than I do with disciplined and regular endurance athletes. It's all relative, and I promise I have no intention of going too far down the rabbit hole and obsessing needlessly about my performance or consigning my future to a more ludicrous ambition than I or my supportive wife and children think is healthy.<br />
<br />
Without further ado, I hereby stream some consciousness flowing from the first few weeks after becoming an Ironman!<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
It takes a lot of heart to complete an Ironman triathlon. I know, because I left most of mine strewn across the Queen K. highway at the 2015 Kona Championship. Throughout the 26.2 mile Marathon run, a conservative mathematical estimate would allow for 28,800 beats of my 44 year old cardiac pump. In the interest of full disclosure, my heart rate did not beat in a sustained manner as I moved along the run portion of the event. Rather, I would accelerate to an occasional sprint or more often trot, and decelerate to a brisk walk or more often sluggish shuffle every 30 seconds. This pattern truly represented my absolute best effort that afternoon and night. Having run 10 full marathons in my adult life, it is curious that I couldn’t manage a more durable athletic production. The obvious factors affecting this compromised performance include age, weight, nutrition and training. I emphasize this aspect of my journey, because it is the best prism through which to honestly analyze and fairly celebrate the impressive nature of my accomplishment.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLJ-d4QJC9VSn0UF49QT3WMJ2bSqFwiJJZrnqtw3sVRP2WFTBPpotvmK8QyqVatIL2lwRMayOEbZDKL1V-MxKNjUPVh7B6uWcc6kM6OnhARYr5jtnqFIYVsYfFnxFfLk3GR6_MWoI/s1600/Unknown-5.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLJ-d4QJC9VSn0UF49QT3WMJ2bSqFwiJJZrnqtw3sVRP2WFTBPpotvmK8QyqVatIL2lwRMayOEbZDKL1V-MxKNjUPVh7B6uWcc6kM6OnhARYr5jtnqFIYVsYfFnxFfLk3GR6_MWoI/s400/Unknown-5.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
Race week was typically thrilling and nerve wracking. Race day was pure magic. I either met or exceeded the lion's share of own expectations. In particular, I bravely faced my genuine terror of the open water, posting a swim time that no one would have predicted based on my 3 time trials. I accidentally turned in a cycling time that was vastly better than I considered likely or even possible. The run sucked. My finish time for the 140.6 mile challenge was 15:30:31. This is 15 minutes faster than the range I quoted to most people who asked what time I was shooting for (15:45-16:15). Yet, it’s at least an hour slower than I should have been able to finish given my level of fitness at the time of the race. Who cares? What does it matter? Finishing 90 minutes before the 17 hour cut off time places me at the very bottom of the finishers list. I was not just slower than almost everyone in my age group, I was in fact slower than almost everyone, including amputees and other challenged athletes, including a racer who was running with a transplanted heart. No joke. Talk about inspiring!!!<br />
<br />
I trained alongside professionals and age groupers who finished nearly twice as fast as me. What does that say about me? Well, it says many things. I do not have any triathlon experience. I am not a high caliber athlete. The amount of time that I trained was substandard. Everything about my output was substandard. My capacity to absorb information and translate what knowledge I did have into quality training was substandard. I wanted to lose 2 lbs per week over the course of 18 weeks. I failed. Instead of losing 36 pounds by race day, I was only 14 pounds lighter than when I started. Given the countless hours of running, cycling and swimming, it seems impossible not to have shed more weight. I made a concerted effort to improve my nutrition. The weak link in that endeavor was refined sugar. Dammit. How could I let that happen? Why wasn’t I more disciplined? What self destructive streak in my nature compromised my commitment? Serious sugar addiction? Inexplicable incapacity for eating restraint? Recurring loss of focus? All of those reasons, some of those reasons, none of those reasons and more, clearly account for my qualified "readiness" on race day. According to my coach, I was ready in terms of my stated goal of successfully completing the event in the allotted 17 hours. I most certainly was not ready to compete anywhere near what I am capable of.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7EKN6Yc7VbtLGz9jYGRUVus8mEkE9lUwC5RA2DR8OtAQx0MnBxhz7ga-Etv-mhUE8osL2KHLS5a_ABW9GGDLuD_v-sK3IVTWsKoKll8oKzNwihxZaQbUYrtOSGwW8otjsYva3kpY/s1600/Unknown-9.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7EKN6Yc7VbtLGz9jYGRUVus8mEkE9lUwC5RA2DR8OtAQx0MnBxhz7ga-Etv-mhUE8osL2KHLS5a_ABW9GGDLuD_v-sK3IVTWsKoKll8oKzNwihxZaQbUYrtOSGwW8otjsYva3kpY/s640/Unknown-9.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Who cares? I never intend to become a professional triathlete. I will never win my age group at an Ironman event of any length. For that matter, I may never participate in another triathlon again. So, why focus on all of these critical aspects of my experience? Why belittle what I did? Why give voice to any disappointment? Because, given all of these inadequacies, I am still incredibly proud of myself. The joy and thrill I have at finishing means even more when placed in the context of my own sober understanding of just how objectively badly I did compared to virtually everyone else in the race, certainly in light of how much better we know I could have done.<br />
<br />
Did I do what I am capable of? No. I know that my potential is so much greater. Does this fact diminish the nature of my accomplishment? Of course not. I did something that most people on planet earth will never attempt. People are impressed beyond words at what I did. That is fun and feels pretty great. But, being honest with myself and you, it's not completely satisfying. People who know me well understand my determined nature, but becoming an Ironman captures their imagination on a whole new level. But I know that I’m better. I know that I’m a stronger athlete and a more effective person than this effort shows. The fact that this is how I feel means something important. I am one of them. I’m not just a member of the Ironman club because I finished, I’m a part of the endurance community because in the pit of my stomach, I know that it’s right to demand more of myself.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg76q22NjwFIzKdR1MSLbOLLRgnkGOmONKy_GSi6BsSk1dIQo2gsiSunpPrfFgVhoW0GfKj-Vw9t3nrDxp6Ape7ati2GZ-yOFkvvA3FkoGGNWbJcw_OucNU3V8SqtQjuXGJbyU3LGo/s1600/12011272_10154050135581729_2336027813456169899_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg76q22NjwFIzKdR1MSLbOLLRgnkGOmONKy_GSi6BsSk1dIQo2gsiSunpPrfFgVhoW0GfKj-Vw9t3nrDxp6Ape7ati2GZ-yOFkvvA3FkoGGNWbJcw_OucNU3V8SqtQjuXGJbyU3LGo/s320/12011272_10154050135581729_2336027813456169899_n.jpg" width="261" /></a>I was given every advantage this year. <a href="http://www.quintanarootri.com/" target="_blank">Quintana Roo</a> gave me two fantastic bikes. <a href="http://www.rokasports.com/" target="_blank">Roka</a> gave me wetsuits, goggles and other product. The <a href="http://www.rudyprojectusa.com/" target="_blank">Rudy Project</a> gave me helmets and glasses and other great stuff. The world class training organization <a href="http://www.teamexos.com/" target="_blank">Exos</a> did a complete physiological and body composition breakdown. They designed a great strength and resistance regime. Most importantly, I was provided with the most expert coaching team imaginable in <a href="http://www.purplepatchfitness.com/" target="_blank">Purplepatch</a>. Founder Matt Dixon dedicated his full attention to designing my training schedule. He coached me in the pool. He created the opportunity for me to train with the storied swim club <a href="http://tower26.com/" target="_blank">Tower 26</a> and the legendary Gerry Rodriguez. The incomparable Paul Buick worked tirelessly to impart his lifetime of experience and wisdom in cycling. Sarah Piampiano was a generous source of guidance and support. My trainer Eli was a constant companion and resource throughout my training. <a href="http://zenfoods.com/" target="_blank">Zen Foods</a> delivered meals to my home in accordance with the Exos prescribed diet parameters. My wife and children were perpetually supportive and helpful every step of the way. The <a href="http://www.ironman.com/" target="_blank">Ironman</a> organization was constantly available with information, contacts, resources and help of all kinds. Dave McGillivray was a benevolent and generous source of guidance and support. Many other friends, colleagues and people in the community offered sustained support and aide all along the way.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb7rgunvQY-IMRtuoDaD8hEiTJXyX560BgNIcXYQDsQokj2WZsUbAcOWD9hnu2arQ-it7rUNcUXmb0LVop81aoMeiAS1IUXbnS8i1fzAhR_EI0hkqipz-ukgsddXacZL1TAdtWHeM/s1600/1782061_910660955656580_5185227060250981810_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb7rgunvQY-IMRtuoDaD8hEiTJXyX560BgNIcXYQDsQokj2WZsUbAcOWD9hnu2arQ-it7rUNcUXmb0LVop81aoMeiAS1IUXbnS8i1fzAhR_EI0hkqipz-ukgsddXacZL1TAdtWHeM/s200/1782061_910660955656580_5185227060250981810_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The public’s support of my <a href="http://run3rd.com/" target="_blank">#Run3rd</a> charity provided an incalculable amount of inspiration and motivation. Kris and Mindy Przeor's steadfast support of the "Run3rd" charitable mission provided a steady reminder of the immediacy of our efforts to impact the lives of middle schoolers, their lives, dreams and futures. Remove any single piece of this elaborate and overwhelming team of helpers, and the odds of my completing the triathlon in Kona would have been greatly reduced.<br />
<br />
An unforgettable week leading up to the race. One hour and forty five minutes of heart pounding, fear challenging time in the open ocean. Just over seven hours of high temperature, gusty winds on the bike. A brutal 6 hours and six minutes of a blister laden painful run. I never wanted to quit, but I did did seriously consider the possibility at miles 3, 9, 12, 16 & 19 of the marathon. Every step of the run after mile 2 sent sharp, shooting pains up my legs. I kept a smile on my face and didn't let on to anyone that I was suffering in this particular way until 20 minutes after the race, when I sat down and finally removed my soaking wet shoes and socks. The skin on the bottom of my feet had been drenched and soggy for almost 16 hours. The nerve endings were exposed and even the slightest puff of wind had me clenching my fists, my entire body actually. Three days later, I took a trip to the emergency room because the right foot was swelling in a disconcerting manner, and my right leg was bruising up to the calf. I'm proud of what a super tough hombre I am because at each moment, I would look at my girls and smile with the constant refrain, "totally worth it."<br />
<br />
In truth, I felt absolutely perfect in the days after. My legs felt fresh and I was good enough to take a red-eye and head directly to work on a film 36 hours later. Hobbling and wincing each step made it look pretty gnarly, but it was just the blisters, nothing else. I was mostly fine four days later. As of this writing though, my right foot has grown a minor cluster of blisters in the center of the foot pad, making it completely inadvisable for me to run in the New York City Marathon on November 1. BUMMER. I pray that I'll be able to participate in that Classic event in a year's time.<br />
<br />
For anyone curious about the lead up to my preparation for the Ironman Championship in Kona 2015, here’s the background. I trained very diligently, if not properly, for four months in advance of the Marine Corps Marathon in October of 2014. I went into that event with serious inflammation of both achilles tendons. In an ill advised and impulsive gesture, I flew across the country three weeks later and ran the Rock N’ Roll Marathon in Las Vegas. My achilles/calf issue had been exacerbated during training in the ice cold conditions in Alabama during the <a href="http://woodlawnmovie.com/" target="_blank">Woodlawn movie</a> shoot (FYI it's in theaters right now).<br />
<br />
Despite this injury status, I “did the Dopey” RunDisney event at Disney World in Orlando in January (5k, 10k, 1/2 Marathon & Full Marathon in 4 days) followed a few days later by the 3 day test at Disneyland California (5k, 10k & 1/2 Marathon). My weight/nutrition and achilles issues were a constant impediment to quality training. I had a dead February. Preparing for the Boston Marathon in April was plagued with these recurring health issues. That said, just as with my <a href="http://run3rd.blogspot.com/2014/11/sean-astins-marine-corps-marathon-race.html" target="_blank">Marine Corps Marathon experience</a> last October, my <a href="http://run3rd.blogspot.com/2015/04/sean-astins-boston-marathon-report.html" target="_blank">Boston Marathon experience</a> was profound, heart warming and among the greatest privileges of my life. Regardless, my conditioning was terrible and the time result was quite poor relative to my other 8 Marathon experiences to date (including Los Angeles 4 times, San Francisco, Chicago & Disney World).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ46Ww0TUmJnKv3EdqFXWpTeMWbDMB6-dJ49Jdokiuw1cjbHudFhPexcMe5282Eh1e_3KbBhjtYfomqTZ9SEfZkzDlaTRbRoNxihnX2Yjte5MhtH6J2D-PfSodtwmjU5sBVpP8yl8/s1600/12032785_1093869660634155_7887855615160115824_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ46Ww0TUmJnKv3EdqFXWpTeMWbDMB6-dJ49Jdokiuw1cjbHudFhPexcMe5282Eh1e_3KbBhjtYfomqTZ9SEfZkzDlaTRbRoNxihnX2Yjte5MhtH6J2D-PfSodtwmjU5sBVpP8yl8/s400/12032785_1093869660634155_7887855615160115824_o.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
This was the state of affairs leading into the 5 months of training for Kona. Many miles of low quality training and passionate but diminished athletic status left me nervous about further injuries and skeptical of my own capabilities. I speak to many audiences about my love of running and the bliss I experienced throughout this period. My health and fitness challenges are profound obstacles. On a great note, when I share my approach to dealing with these problems, the best qualities of my personality and character are revealed. The frustrating reality is that I constantly fail to show sustained improvement regarding the basic foundation of my nutrition and training. I’m a busy guy with a loving family and exciting work and travel demands. Finding balance in life should always be the goal. In that regard, I have many miles to go to achieve that dream. The allure of Marathons will likely never be far from my heart. I've declared a goal to run a full Marathon in all 50 states and 7 continents. I only 43 more states and 6 continents to go. At age 44, I have more than enough time to get it all done. Of course, I may not get anything else done if I proceed on this course, but for a lot of reasons, I like having impossible goals.<br />
<br />
That was my year leading up to Kona. It was fun. It was hectic. It was sometimes painful and fraught with worry. But, ya know what... I did it. Many dynamics threatened my success, but I did it.<br />
<br />
There is so much more to share, but (until I write a book about this stuff) I'm struggling for a way to share the details of the event that isn't purely chronological. So, in the interest of clearing the barrels and leaving as much of it out there for people's consumption for the time being, here is a list of some of the seminal moments in my journey to Kona starting in May, just 6 months before the event, and impressions of my hellaciously wonderful competition day as well.<br />
<br />
In May, on my own, I pedaled my 2 year old Trek Madone 112 miles from one end of Los Angeles to the other (San Pedro) and back again. It took 11 hours. I got a bad sunburn and the confidence that I could survive the miles required.<br />
<br />
In the weeks before the Vineman 70.3 (Half Triathlon in July in Sonoma, CA), I had a training breakthrough one night (in Calabasas, my home town). I did a swim, then a good 20-ish mile ride followed by a 5k. It was the first mini-triathlon that I’d done and my legs felt awful throughout the run. I was defeated and feeling terrible at the end, but I decided that was unacceptable. I spontaneously added a second 5k. I pushed through the pain and emerged feeling excited and triumphant. I missed being with my family because of the extra half hour. This dynamic happened a lot. Because I would be working during the days, often my training started in the afternoons. The sessions would last 3-7 hours. When we talk about how much our families sacrifice, this is the kind of thing we mean.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgbmRji-arlqrmpZJ3CYizzj92IG_jKNVdGz8vFUMFVGMYSSMtzLRh3-omuWjICLX4wgihL-4k-IpOqLZVOYADQFQd65eFEot2AyyFcY1wUMhdA1wtyHwOtWY4Mkh9WMFWx7jbHs/s1600/+CJuTMTnUwAIxsEX.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgbmRji-arlqrmpZJ3CYizzj92IG_jKNVdGz8vFUMFVGMYSSMtzLRh3-omuWjICLX4wgihL-4k-IpOqLZVOYADQFQd65eFEot2AyyFcY1wUMhdA1wtyHwOtWY4Mkh9WMFWx7jbHs/s320/+CJuTMTnUwAIxsEX.jpg" width="230" /></a></div>
I completed the Vineman 70.3 in, for me, a great time of 7:25.<br />
<br />
I did the swim in a wetsuit that I had only tried on once the day before. The gross neck rash was no big deal compared with the claustrophobic panic attack that I suffered at the start of the race.<br />
<br />
Learning on the job about the complexity of transitions was harrowing. My transition times were impressive, in the wrong way.<br />
<br />
I was forced to apply the lesson I learned on that 2nd 5k during the 1/2 Marathon. I felt great at the end. Serious confidence builder.<br />
<br />
I ran a ton of 1/2 Marathons: Annapolis MD, Tobbacco Road NC, other states and even Niagara Falls in Canada. Each run was a risk to my achilles, but helped a little with my weight and gave me confidence that I was moving in the right direction.<br />
<br />
Matt Dixon of Purplepatch started downloading all kinds of information about triathlons: tips, best practices and the beginnings of instruction. I instantly trusted him and the confidence in his expertise of telling me what, when and how to do training was a relief.<br />
<br />
The Exos body composition revealed that I was critically dehydrated. The gallon of water per day order changed the complexion of my days and nights. The strength and conditioning program instantly started transforming my body from fragile to strong. In the 6 weeks leading up to the event, I stopped following the program, which was self destructive. Time consuming, but essential. Big mistake to omit it from my routine.<br />
<br />
Matt threatened me at one point about the need for restorative sleep. I give myself a B- at responding to his mandate. The only harsh text he sent was in the 10 days before the event when I wanted to lengthen the duration of a couple of the exercises. He had warned me that every athlete, feeling strong because the miles would be a little reduced, feels unprepared and wants to increase the load. This is a big mistake. He told me he'd fire me if I didn't listen. Of course I did. He smiles at the recounting, I shudder.<br />
<br />
Training with Gerry in the pool in Pacific Palisades opened my eyes to what was possible and just how terrible a swimmer I am. The other swimmers were incredibly gracious, sharing tips and trying to reassure me, in particular about the big bad open water, and also about the curious and impossible to grasp clock management in the pool. Seriously, coaches must be pretty bored and a little masochistic in how they command attention to the seconds.<br />
<br />
Quintana Roo’s training bike takes my cycling to a new level.<br />
<br />
Training in the pool with Matt in San Francisco lurched my progress forward.<br />
<br />
Eli, my trainer, massage guy, all purpose bike and equipment wrangle and super-aid and I try to learn the Exos method. My balance goes from appalling to passable in 2 weeks.<br />
<br />
I create an auto-reply on my email account announcing to all that I was in training. Important statement of purpose and prioritization.<br />
<br />
Matt proscribes much swimming and cycling and little running in an effort to prevent injury. The plan works. I arrive at Kona injury free. In 4.5 months, this was the best we could do.<br />
<br />
Gerry finally tells me that I’m ready for open water swimming with the Wednesday group. I begin my deteriorating confidence about the ocean. Panic attacks and literally sleepless nights ensued.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhp10wdzmxYE28Fpe2ESzv5rzgUP8ja63w9wQAbL5BatX0ffbZjy-baDhMTHExYGdH9ugKHh1p3htUwjqPpMQCjGCULiEP3kCos5ncZCCTMEWsMEGnleVmd6z78OTY7sL5OlLyOF8/s1600/11873405_10206552845571217_2846003428894732265_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhp10wdzmxYE28Fpe2ESzv5rzgUP8ja63w9wQAbL5BatX0ffbZjy-baDhMTHExYGdH9ugKHh1p3htUwjqPpMQCjGCULiEP3kCos5ncZCCTMEWsMEGnleVmd6z78OTY7sL5OlLyOF8/s320/11873405_10206552845571217_2846003428894732265_n.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
Low water mark, I fail to make it past the waves on open water day. I was nearly reduced to tears and anger at my fear and inability. Gerry makes a rare phone call to warn that I was way too far behind and that my ability to finish the swim at Kona was in great peril. He doesn’t say I can’t do it. He calls Matt. Matt commands a huge infusion of swimming in my program.<br />
<br />
Eli rents a kayak. With a wetsuit, I force myself into the ocean in Malibu. A triumphant moment. The next week, I make it out into the Pacific in Santa Monica. Gerry’s confidence improves.<br />
<br />
I sustain an foot injury running. The miles had been increased and my typical pattern of injury returned. I got an MRI. Results were negative. I got a foot brace and ran carefully every subsequent run, continuing through the race.<br />
<br />
Eli ups the stretching and massage regime. Eventually, we'd fall off on that score and I'm sure it cost us.<br />
<br />
I fail for the 2nd time in the water in Santa Monica. But, in the biggest swim accomplishment to date, later that day, I go with Eli in a Kayak, to swim a full time trial, without a wetsuit in Malibu. For the record, Eli and I did the kayak routine several times. I never actually touched the kayak, but the psychological impact of knowing he was close made the difference.<br />
<br />
On the day of the last open water trial, we are prohibited by the lifeguards from swimming because an 8 foot hammerhead shark was observed that hour under the pier. My panic attacks resumed. These episodes were characterized by shortness of breath and headaches with sweating palms and forehead. No joke, these were full blown panic attacks.<br />
<br />
The high water mark was a trip to Hawaii to train with Paul. This was a journey that Matt near insisted that I take. Paul and I spent 4 days of professional caliber training. My cycling was alternately poor and impressive. I certainly gained the confidence to do well on the race those days. The running in the 110 degree heat was ok but not impressive. I panicked during the swims, quitting from fear twice. All in though, take away those four days, I probably don’t finish the event in time.<br />
<br />
My long long rides on Pacific Coast Highway from Malibu to Camarillo were a strain, but also fantastic accomplishments as I put my Kona training into action…<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPNb11o_Nj03Eo1X1s6-db-ZJIzk7lWXvzTTM2drs_MSnwROjbqIxxyMBoMTwN5uogF5hxrjBWPtaP_aAaU910GSurt8Vyeur72rDf9AI7YVrlrrW3DOJBPw9ST3bpDDQQUc5Rr0/s1600/12010501_1082679785086476_9193827786164224108_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPNb11o_Nj03Eo1X1s6-db-ZJIzk7lWXvzTTM2drs_MSnwROjbqIxxyMBoMTwN5uogF5hxrjBWPtaP_aAaU910GSurt8Vyeur72rDf9AI7YVrlrrW3DOJBPw9ST3bpDDQQUc5Rr0/s640/12010501_1082679785086476_9193827786164224108_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
As I said, many of my training days went into the night. My wife rescued me in the mountains a few times. On one event I had a double tire blow out. These rides were dangerous on a number of other levels, not the least of which was traffic.<br />
<br />
Some days were great “training nutrition” days, some were terrible. By race day, I was still unsure of what to eat. But Matt’s instructions on the nutrition timing during the event were clearly the difference between finishing, and dropping out and possibly needing the medical tent.<br />
<br />
In the weeks leading up to the race, I was plagued with a series of 5 trips for appearances and other work related obligations that compromised my ability to follow the training plan. In various cities I found aquatic centers or pools. Some were perfect others were disastrous. One hotel roof top pool was particularly absurd in terms of the families sharing the space with drunken incursions into my lanes, etc…<br />
<br />
My foot injury and achilles concerns persisted until the end. The “taper” days/relaxed miles did allow for a moderate improvement with those problems.<br />
<br />
My nutrition during travel was terrible.<br />
<br />
Occasionally, I would find time to put in 14+ hours of sleep at a stretch. Those coma times usually meant missing out on group swimming sessions or family time, but I remember feeling restored by them.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGC8pAw3J1yCthWRGmBFlV01NnWmGU4hR2RvHQJoLmw9jPaZeuOurygfJJqrDkHGP9rkAP3gpdy42lPY01X7AC8Wtk6BYurjZ2B3t4iPbgcbaMqPoFe6beHHm-1fvYVr9JIvBx1L0/s1600/12087248_1008179462536541_918412075296011947_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGC8pAw3J1yCthWRGmBFlV01NnWmGU4hR2RvHQJoLmw9jPaZeuOurygfJJqrDkHGP9rkAP3gpdy42lPY01X7AC8Wtk6BYurjZ2B3t4iPbgcbaMqPoFe6beHHm-1fvYVr9JIvBx1L0/s320/12087248_1008179462536541_918412075296011947_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Press opportunities and responsibilities in the lead up to race week and during race week created a mixture of emotions. As a contracted “ambassador” for the Ironman event, I had certain press requirements. I was thrilled to share my training results and begin to feel like a pseudo expert relating my story. I had learned enough during my process, both as a longtime fan of the Kona broadcast, but also as a newly immersed competitor, that I also felt squeamish holding myself as in some way more worthy of being singled out than the 2,000 competitors who legitimately earned their coveted spot on the starting line by winning their age group in some Ironman qualifier. I felt a little better about having been invited to have a so called “celebrity” slot when I understood that some people had won their place in a lottery. I determined to always express my respect for the sport, its history and all of the competitors who were so gifted and so dedicated to their efforts. So, I got the best of the world of celebrated participant and the worst of not being able to hide from the attention when it felt awkward. Ultimately, I believe that my inclusion in the event is “good for the sport” because some people may become interested in triathlons who might not otherwise pay attention to it. For sure people will watch the NBC broadcast in November, if only to see if the Hobbit made it up another couple of volcanoes. Mt. Doom, they say was nothing, surely he can conquer the Big Island. People chanted Rudy all along the route. They held up Goonies signs, made 50 1st Dates jokes and yelled out encouragement. All of the competitors have our names on the bibs, making it easy for people cheering to be specific. I had done a couple of local interviews to offer my respect to the people, the land and the unique Aloha magic on the Island. Lots of people yelled out how much they appreciated the words. After awhile, I was too tired to offer more than a light flick of a finger in grateful reply. It would have taken 8 hours to finish the run if I made eye contact and waved appropriately. Anyhow, I expect to bring a few new eyeballs to the telecast. People will be stunned, thrilled and amazed to see what Kona means. The various stories are so compelling, it takes your breath away. Like I said, with the right amount of humility, I think it was good that I participated. Thank you all Ironman and the Tri-community for accepting me!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwFyuE60tJ7wJi8muDDTyDZeymUKUTvUJ47VoL3NzF6ADWx1IIcc0Hqy_K9Q_FYXpyqxCBqT1T38G3Wfg21CGmn70dAZnTnZZNrqLZYEtlZI-_GOzuYYHwn218h4VykN2B_UZwKPE/s1600/Unknown-2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwFyuE60tJ7wJi8muDDTyDZeymUKUTvUJ47VoL3NzF6ADWx1IIcc0Hqy_K9Q_FYXpyqxCBqT1T38G3Wfg21CGmn70dAZnTnZZNrqLZYEtlZI-_GOzuYYHwn218h4VykN2B_UZwKPE/s640/Unknown-2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Race week started with the flight. My wife and two of our three daughters landed in Kona with a rush of excitement and appreciation for the beauty of the island. They reveled in their time at the Four Seasons Hotel. It was expensive but totally worth it. They snorkeled and swam and did wonderful activities, the Hula, making jewelry and other great stuff. They also learned just what all of Dad’s training was all about. They were genuinely impressed when they saw the distances and weather elements we would face. That feeling of capturing their imagination was the most satisfying part of the whole thing.<br />
<br />
I loved participating in the Expo. I bought stuff, I was given things, I enjoyed my sponsors and preparing the rest of my equipment etc… I did ‘overdo’ it during the week a few times. The advice was always to relax, but I had lots to do and found other fun. I did train during the week.<br />
Matt Dixon from Purplepatch held a team meeting at the house the night before the event. I was with 20 other competitors. Most had earned their slots, I believe a couple got in by lottery. I was the token Celebrity non-triathlon guy. Being on a team made the whole thing worth it. Thanks everyone from Purplepatch!!!!! Matt, you are a steely eyed warrior with a gentle spirit and brain sharpened to perfection. Thanks mate.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGJW1Wy2gcxOGxNyUEaUwCxGcxIRU5EDx341JI2fgN_ljkOyLpfjb358NOgZCK-_ey09hNI2SwioQ_Yo4q4VLZz-HYkWPZZBBekcaV-KJbFy_bl5J-SF26oC85uSwv1eH6jUf9iY/s1600/12186550_10206739410158240_341786281677934980_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGJW1Wy2gcxOGxNyUEaUwCxGcxIRU5EDx341JI2fgN_ljkOyLpfjb358NOgZCK-_ey09hNI2SwioQ_Yo4q4VLZz-HYkWPZZBBekcaV-KJbFy_bl5J-SF26oC85uSwv1eH6jUf9iY/s320/12186550_10206739410158240_341786281677934980_o.jpg" width="320" /></a>As for the race, the biggest issue was the swim. I had been obsessing about the duration of the 2.4 <br />
mile journey and endured several more bona fide panic attacks. On two of the mornings, I went out and pushed myself to swim alone. The first day I held onto floating markers. The second day, I found myself panicking all alone a mile out to sea. I recovered from it and pressed backed to shore.<br />
<br />
By race morning, somehow, probably based on the favorable weather conditions, I knew I was ready. I wasn’t nervous. I didn’t panic. I had developed a strategy that was doable and within my control.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lOF2By1oV982E0E0xl-aIHjqZDex-4rKG8JdCfGO7990K4b6zLZjdDPji-s9bqRwaG2MFuhkqQFLMY-VAwne7Knrzh_N7mlNdkjYdtvxpZROX2JLV5tzVuLO21Ba0q0BuoEPt9E/s1600/12004002_10206739410718254_1723073855603526628_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lOF2By1oV982E0E0xl-aIHjqZDex-4rKG8JdCfGO7990K4b6zLZjdDPji-s9bqRwaG2MFuhkqQFLMY-VAwne7Knrzh_N7mlNdkjYdtvxpZROX2JLV5tzVuLO21Ba0q0BuoEPt9E/s320/12004002_10206739410718254_1723073855603526628_n.jpg" width="212" /></a>The crazy thing about the bike ride was not that we had massive heat and a strong headwind in both directions of the 112 mile journey. I was pouring ice water on my legs like they were overheated pistons through each station. No, through the sweat, water and wind, I couldn't accurately see (I wear 20 dollar cheaters from Rite Aide) the small hour digit on the right bottom corner of my Garmin computer. I thought I was moving at a 8 hour 30 minute pace. That would have put me dangerously close to missing the 5:30pm bike cut-off time. Matt had given the team explicit instructions that when we saw the airport come into view, to back off a little, stretch, hydrate and start preparing our minds for the Marathon run we would be about to commence. BUT, he looked at me specifically and said, unless you are faced with a cut-off issue Sean... then that goes out the window and you pedal for as fast a time trial race as you've ever done in your life. That was plan B. When the airport came into <br />
view, I misread my clock. I panicked and put plan B into action. I pedaled my heart out. I was head down into the strong 30+ mile per hour head wind. I was passing people going up hill. As I raced through the transition, just behind a blind competitor on a tandem bike, I struggled to pull my Garmin computer off and replace it on my watch (neat toy). I unclipped from the pedals and handed the bike to a volunteer. I started running in my bike shoes, even though I knew it could enflame my achilles, because I wasn't sure where the LINE was saying you'd made the cut off. Someone said, relax it's 4 o'clock. Holy Crap!!! I crushed the ride. Holy Crap!!! I've destroyed myself for the marathon. A classic rookie mistake to make, usually based on hubris and a lack of respect for the course. Nope. I just couldn't tell time.<br />
<br />
While my first transition was 9 minutes (1 minute slower than prescribed by Matt), the transition to the run took 17 interminable minutes. The guys in the changing area were so nice. They kept pulling towels out of ice water filled trash cans and draped them over me. My core temperature was way too high. I went to the bathroom. I never wanted to leave it. It should be the faster transition, there are no gloves, bike shoes, helmet etc... to put on... just shoes, a belt and go... or I don't know what and go. I swear I didn't order a pizza. Anyhow, I felt pretty good my the time I left the tent. I didn't realize that in 20 minutes, the blister agony would kick in.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEgHGf7pk8LbMULKPuqAILCzCx5qpiau3dOJRZPmTA_rz6BX4bcgE54WIEamVbIMMn3WyfhfbdO7bLCebyRj97gmCcls5B0DqGS4nkEP4gkrzih8q9OX_lg8cHV3mWPbpIspPk634/s1600/12032929_10156791586895377_3913478043661582771_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEgHGf7pk8LbMULKPuqAILCzCx5qpiau3dOJRZPmTA_rz6BX4bcgE54WIEamVbIMMn3WyfhfbdO7bLCebyRj97gmCcls5B0DqGS4nkEP4gkrzih8q9OX_lg8cHV3mWPbpIspPk634/s200/12032929_10156791586895377_3913478043661582771_n.jpg" width="169" /></a></div>
Christine, Elizabeth and Bella were waiting with signs on the right side of the road. I stopped for 45 minutes to visit with them. Ok, it was more like 4, but I also never wanted to leave. Bella had written something on her sign about me being an IronDad. Eli gave me a strong Bear Bro hug. He knew I was in deep doodoo... I saw Kevin Downes, my friend and producer of the Woodlawn movie. Did I mention it's in theatres now? He had flown the whole way, with his cousin to support me. Wicked awesome cool. Laura, one of the truest fans an actor can have, came out too. She was representing the broader "Run3rd" community. Did I mention we have the 2nd annual <a href="http://run3rd5k.com/" target="_blank">Run3rd5k</a> coming up in April? Even if you can't come in person, you can do the virtual run. Those entrance fees will help some kids.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig25ixf3ARaOI2-s8pXds05hHjY3vmAz0icHRTHxvzdFp_YwHlqXN4kk41w_rZrWqFGtWgvN5hD3GjYGxb4lEMMPOhl5Z3pyu2oWRiTKVLX_u1a7VnxKo3Zh4GbfEZ3Inh87IXUB0/s1600/11063822_10206739415318369_3761132163526514642_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig25ixf3ARaOI2-s8pXds05hHjY3vmAz0icHRTHxvzdFp_YwHlqXN4kk41w_rZrWqFGtWgvN5hD3GjYGxb4lEMMPOhl5Z3pyu2oWRiTKVLX_u1a7VnxKo3Zh4GbfEZ3Inh87IXUB0/s320/11063822_10206739415318369_3761132163526514642_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
Throughout the run, Paul would ride up on his moped and offer some encouraging demands. How you doing? Great! We both knew I wasn't great, but he admired the moxie. Actually, Matt rode up too several times. His word, the Purplepatch word is "gumption." He says I have it. After reading all of this, what do you think? You're dang right I have gumption.<br />
<br />
I should mention that I had to wear an electronic leash for the event. This was NBC's way of tracking me so they could send out their field team to record me. I was one of several people in this category. I think they sat at the computer and waited to see my pace wane. Knowing this meant I was suffering, they dispatched a crew. This happened a couple times during the cycle and then a couple times during the run. I was a pretty good actor for the first few. I gave up trying later. It's good TV I thought. Crap. I hope they use the most flattering looking suffering. I actually can't believe when I see pics and tape just how bloated and fat I look. I don't think it's representative of my true body image right now. I keep thinking, well if people see that a short fatty can do it, maybe they'll feel encouraged. I just hate it. We couldn't focus on weight loss in such a short time. If we did really seriously prioritize it, then I would surely have been injured during the long miles. We sacrificed weightloss for endurance training. Matt says that if we had a year, which would be much more appropriate for the gargantuan task we were attempting, the first four to five months would be weightloss. I did add the water weight so I wouldn't be dehydrated, and I did put on a ton of muscle. But, the fat looks so fat. So so fat. No matter... we come to the finish.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakRcfrOdzYxjEA_aeVSBIvmdHLNUSn5p6ZnGiCL3eW13oC6zFRMRC1B2hsg1Otn3Wmevg_sHx-nmTo0EvU7szXlI4TcTQS1rGyrRm4hLrys6rjaQrZjzHVpKquyIDXjqtRaitRtI/s1600/10455568_10205120345436720_8369186020350586001_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakRcfrOdzYxjEA_aeVSBIvmdHLNUSn5p6ZnGiCL3eW13oC6zFRMRC1B2hsg1Otn3Wmevg_sHx-nmTo0EvU7szXlI4TcTQS1rGyrRm4hLrys6rjaQrZjzHVpKquyIDXjqtRaitRtI/s320/10455568_10205120345436720_8369186020350586001_n.jpg" width="202" /></a></div>
Matt, Paul & some Purplepatch teammates found me at mile 20. My Garmin had quit around mile 17. A fully charged watch had died. Sucks. I was doing the 30/30. The watch would chime every 30 seconds, cuing me to walk then run etc... Now, I had to do what Matt had been instructing. Puzzles. Find ways to keep the mind invested. Don't think of the macro or you'll stop. How ya doing? he asked at 20. I'm playing the line game. Walk one yellow painted lane line on the highway and run 2. Or walk 2 lines and run 4. I liked the doubling concept. He encouraged me to take advantage of downhills. I did, but it messed up my brain's little game. He and Paul were starting to lighten up. They knew I'd made it. I remember in little league, in high school on the jv baseball team and on the cross country team the distinct feeling of joy that comes from making your coach proud. Matt shook my hand from the moped as I made the second to last turn before the finish. A compact fulfilled.<br />
<br />
Bryanna from Quintana Roo was waiting on the last little downhill before the final turn onto Alihi drive. She was so proud. I walked much longer at that point. I was conserving energy for the finish chute. I knew I had an hour and a half to spare and I wanted to make the last few hundred yards count. Everyone talked about what a special feeling it was. I think I saw Ryan Dolan from Roka or was it Devin Johnson from the Rudy Project...maybe I saw both of them, it was a blur. I know I saw Sarah Piampiano my friend and pro Purplepatch teammate... I think I gave her a hug. I had asked Paul how she did when I saw him on his moped for the first time at mile two of the marathon. I wanted her to win so badly. She came in 7th I think. I yelled out SEVENTH to her and pumped my fists... She looked so fresh, like she hadn't even competed yet.<br />
<br />
Then I opened up the throttle. I had been teasing everyone when I talked about my "finish" moment... that I would just slow across the line as I do in every run 5k to Marathon and click my watch. This did not make my Ironman hosts happy. They wanted a SPRINT or a CRAWL or stopping to shake hands or turn around and salute the 140.6 miles that I had just finished. There is this idea of treading water at the start and looking into the beyond and then turning at the end to say back through the miles, I see you, I traversed your every challenge... the book ends... But no, I determined that I would have a strong run at the finish, fist or fists in the air. I thought I'd have a confident and relaxed look on my face. It's funny, because if you have taken 15 and a half hours to get there, you clearly were not running at your hundred yard dash pace at the finish. At that pace, you would have set a course record. But, it's a trope of the finish line to muster whatever you've got left to put on a great show for the spectators that have been screaming and yelling for 15 hours straight.<br />
<br />
Here's the thing about Ironman Kona. Mike Riley coined the phrase, many years ago at, I believe, the inaugural Ironman event right at the birthplace here in Kona... in his distinctive way, he yells.. for each and every single competitor who makes it across before midnight and not 1 second after, no exception... CONGRATULATIONS (NAME) YOU ARE AN IRONMAN. If you've ever heard him say it, you'll never forget the exact manner of his delivery. It's like "Let's get ready to rumble" in boxing or "Are you ready for some football?" in the NFL.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2AQjtdHdQW-_m8RN9GtNKUGc9nVZ4Yr1ERplvVy6WcT2ud2SVKvZbMuDG-69eW_kVkcNlRel-qAFDPzJToGb2zJ3GKNQ56d11cs9PcZ0nV_tixWI-i0-Zf-kDLLqsbxkZiIQE_Bg/s1600/12106181_1670217873246456_158548309_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2AQjtdHdQW-_m8RN9GtNKUGc9nVZ4Yr1ERplvVy6WcT2ud2SVKvZbMuDG-69eW_kVkcNlRel-qAFDPzJToGb2zJ3GKNQ56d11cs9PcZ0nV_tixWI-i0-Zf-kDLLqsbxkZiIQE_Bg/s200/12106181_1670217873246456_158548309_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Something about me. I LOVE finisher medals. If I compete in any race without a finishers medal, I feel bummed. In preparation for certain events, like the LA Marathon in 2010, I'll print out a picture of the medal or make it my screensaver. I literally run towards the medal. It becomes my focal point. I have a gorgeous collection of finisher medals at home. I will leave them to my children when I die. That's how much they mean to me.<br />
<br />
When it came to competing in the Ironman Championship in KONA, I didn't think about it once except for a fleeting thought not more than twice, that thought, hmm, I haven't thought about the medal, I have no idea what it looks like.<br />
<br />
In fact, I never saw a picture of it and I had no idea what it looked like until they put it around my neck.<br />
<br />
No. What mattered to me, was hearing Mike say those words. At one point, David Cooper sent me a quick video of him saying it, to inspire me. I instantly started crying and that was four months before the race. If I tried to explain to someone about it, I couldn't get through it, because I'd start crying. It sounds stupid, it probably is stupid. But, if you've never been terrified of going hundreds of yards out to sea and done it anyway. If you've never been alone for 11 hours as you get sunburned and lost and having your tires explode from glass on the road. If you've never felt a pain in your foot so sharp that it stopped you cold in your tracks 11 miles from your parked car. If you've never doubted that you could do something, even after you've told everyone you love and know that you could. If you never tried to lose weight and failed. If you've never risked your life in pursuit of a dream, than you might have no concept of what I'm talking about. Those two words, Iron...reserved fore people like Iron Mike Tyson, or steel workers or soldiers... and Man, it's a conundrum for the organization as women are becoming increasingly dominant in the sport... but for ME... what does it mean to be a Man? To be a man for my wife and children. To be a man as we are expected to manage tragedy and gallantry in equal measure... To be an IRONMAN... it's just the name of a company... it's a marketing term... but just as my father taught me about a hundred dollar bill. It's just a piece of paper. No, it's what stands behind it. IRONMAN. What stands behind it is everything I've said and so much more that is unsayable.<br />
<br />
I decided early in the race, that if and when I crossed the line, I would NOT cry. I know it makes for solid television, but I pride myself on always questing for authenticity. To sob would be predictable. Plus, if I started crying, I might not be able to stop.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCogAErp9O77yZhBdMhO80wj5blfF2b3I4xOm6Fs-EYdLaKI1ofLCYgJHiS8F4AAzTl97YNZuLLRaslbSxg6D6-eeqFnQuq2ED0q3M0IUfUbTKpsynQVuaRD4cz4iRCfBqKrbU-_g/s1600/12195029_10206739407358170_1600752999813798954_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCogAErp9O77yZhBdMhO80wj5blfF2b3I4xOm6Fs-EYdLaKI1ofLCYgJHiS8F4AAzTl97YNZuLLRaslbSxg6D6-eeqFnQuq2ED0q3M0IUfUbTKpsynQVuaRD4cz4iRCfBqKrbU-_g/s640/12195029_10206739407358170_1600752999813798954_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The picture of my finish here shows the fleeting second where I just about lost it. But, I didn't. I executed my plan, my way.<br />
<br />
<i>SEAN ASTIN YOU ARE AN IRONMAN</i><br />
<br />
I made a fun collapse on Mike's shoulder. He had to move to his next athlete. Christine, Elizabeth and Bella were there for an embrace and some pics.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Dq23HotQ1Drrf1fnv8dqEM01Szy2yB64Z-bi_KJHqBuMgfn8dL14lJSx6mrbjvYOMsdIwG7MCUN8BumHbbqigczhWWZ_JVDTxCElPQaSlGW_rHuNvjMBVwv3EFpoWm81VNZigOE/s1600/12144721_1095430510478070_3952945740386257592_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Dq23HotQ1Drrf1fnv8dqEM01Szy2yB64Z-bi_KJHqBuMgfn8dL14lJSx6mrbjvYOMsdIwG7MCUN8BumHbbqigczhWWZ_JVDTxCElPQaSlGW_rHuNvjMBVwv3EFpoWm81VNZigOE/s320/12144721_1095430510478070_3952945740386257592_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I couldn't see Matt where he was supposed to be.<br />
<br />
They ushered me along. They hung the medal around my neck. HUGE and impressive. It was not specific to the year, but the neck ribbon is. Such a wonderful treasure.<br />
<br />
Eli and I connected. Man I couldn't have done it without him.<br />
<br />
Kevin was there.<br />
<br />
More pics.<br />
<br />
Shoes came off and the story of the blisters came out.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdadUibJp5-3JPDGTKIKoceLCsG4KQ3R0fahwS1DuLym5xUGl_ha1jYBG-RRqib0Rm7O5lpn47uXMh0XwkMQq2HgrIsAyj6yDaEhDaGevKWkwRgU0o7eA41SGkjWNEcpSjIQMyFLA/s1600/CRGIDk-UsAEBHJb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdadUibJp5-3JPDGTKIKoceLCsG4KQ3R0fahwS1DuLym5xUGl_ha1jYBG-RRqib0Rm7O5lpn47uXMh0XwkMQq2HgrIsAyj6yDaEhDaGevKWkwRgU0o7eA41SGkjWNEcpSjIQMyFLA/s200/CRGIDk-UsAEBHJb.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
The next day was spent poolside with my FINISHERS Hat on proud display.<br />
<br />
24 hours later, we were on a red-eye home. As I said, I had work monday morning. Thank goodness I was playing a chopper pilot who is sitting the whole time.<br />
<br />
And that's it. That's all the news that's fit to print and a bunch more that would be wasted ink and paper.<br />
<br />
If you've read this far you deserve a medal. It means so much to me that you have taken an interest in my Kona adventure.<br />
<br />
As time passes now, I expect a return to normalcy... ha!<br />
<br />
I wish you all GODSPEED with your dreams and triumphs. If anything, I've spent so much time thinking about my dream and working towards it and achieving it... everyone I know gets told about it... the conversations always focuses on what I've done. Because it feels so good and because I don't want to be too selfish, the lesson I take is that dreams are worth having, worth working for, worth realizing. I've got another one under my belt. Now you go get yours!!!!!<br />
<br />
Much love, respect and gratitude,<br />
Sean<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0rKNVp3ZEb0?rel=0" width="640"></iframe>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>First published on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SeanAstinPublic/posts/1101404249880696" target="_blank">Sean Astin's Facebook page</a></i>Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-70185098108873702942015-10-05T13:16:00.000-04:002015-10-11T17:03:14.939-04:00Ironman Kona #Run3rd Dedications<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7TzQY5N_0kKG4MZ-G3fcR_aHBrRJLM7PJTTFDjkEApRIBJYMuxVVruAmE1IOlDLo0p6s07TnpuOtVfZPT1mkwEZeFzZVsQeM-fnXAXSYmqQb-QemOalHfrQiOmj62k4y0E9qeZOo/s1600/12138497_10207640574356780_3749756760179043010_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7TzQY5N_0kKG4MZ-G3fcR_aHBrRJLM7PJTTFDjkEApRIBJYMuxVVruAmE1IOlDLo0p6s07TnpuOtVfZPT1mkwEZeFzZVsQeM-fnXAXSYmqQb-QemOalHfrQiOmj62k4y0E9qeZOo/s640/12138497_10207640574356780_3749756760179043010_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>On October 10, 2015, I will participate in the Ironman Championship Triathlon in Kona, Hawaii. I will wear the #Run3rd logo all 140.6 miles of the journey. As I swim, cycle and run, the dedications that you all have made and continue to make will come with me. Thank you all so much. I #Run3rd for you.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Much love and respect,</i><br />
<i>Sean</i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
~~~</div>
<br />
kstevens73 Please #Run3rd for my niece, Mara, who has Downs Syndrome and is on the Autism Spectrum. She turns 13 this month.<br />
<br />
wendylynnes Please #Run3rd for my strong & incredibly brave Mom who is fighting breast cancer. And all who are fighting breast cancer.<br />
<br />
kaysifajardo Please #Run3rd for my best friend with Leukemia<br />
<br />
carachapel Please #Run3rd for all the poor families and friends of the people killed at Umpqua Community College.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
danielle_dunn04 Please dedicate this #Run3rd to my sister @sallycarswell02! She lost her very long battle with cancer almost 2 years ago and her passion in life was helping children! Even when she was in horrible pain she was planning ways to get toys to sick kids at local hospitals! ♡♡♡♡ #Run3rd<br />
<br />
bexoutdoors Please #Run3rd for my brother @thebatsam who we lost two years ago to heart failure. Even though he spent his whole life being disabled , he never once complained and ALWAYS thought of others first.<br />
<br />
maddie.harnden please #Run3rd for my mom, who is going through a rough time right now<br />
<br />
dlubunyz #Run3rd for little man Gage<br />
<br />
jaysnacks #run3rd For autistic persons everywhere. Both my boys are autistic and face new challenges all the time. Thank you, @seanastin xx<br />
<br />
shainamarie531 Please #Run3rd for my mom who was diagnosed with cancer a month ago.<br />
<br />
carolinewrites Please #Run3rd for my aunt with multiple myeloma.<br />
<br />
balancingmommy Please #Run3rd for an Ironman friend recovering from a serious bike accident. Please #Run3rd for a young teen friend battling leukemia.<br />
<br />
rningrid Please #Run3rd for all of my pediatric oncology patients and their families who go through more struggles than we will ever know.<br />
<br />
cswanfitness Please #Run3rd for those who battle type 1 diabetes. Thank you @seanastin God bless you:)<br />
<br />
nickibugg Please #run3rd for my mom starting her 3rd round of chemo @seanastin you're truly amazing<br />
<br />
iaiavzla Please #run3rd for my friend who had her baby at 27 weeks and are fighting strong at the hospital. @seanastin good luck!<br />
<br />
noelledawes Please #run3rd for the March Of Dime thank you @seanastin love you and God bless you<br />
<br />
tiggerwannabe #Run3rd for Ilse...my crazy strong mother in law that has been battle different bouts of cancer for almost ten years now<br />
<br />
jtsanders #Run3rd for my aunt Gail with ocular melanoma<br />
<br />
Loreen Pantaleone #Run3rd for The K9 Hero Portrait Project - this organization was founded on the principle of painting portraits of K9 Heroes with the emphasis on those killed in the line of duty. The portraits are given to the partner at no charge. Thank you.<br />
<br />
Carmen Pedroso #Run3rd for me! It's my birthday today, and one of my birthday presents will be to meet you next month at MegaCon.<br />
<br />
Danika Taylor Amott Really? You're the best ever! I have two...one is for Alden Amott who is our little "Rudy", we just adopted him two years ago and he has been through more abuse than we can imagine, then 12 different foster families. He can't put 3 plus 1 together but, he can tell us every rule of football and wants to play so badly. Please #run3rd for healing his heart and hoping that he can get on to help a team somewhere as a helper. This is him at last night's game.<br />
<br />
Danika Taylor Amott And, my next is for my Ana. She has a rare, life threatening disease and we're finding out more as we go. http://www.smallsizebighope.com/.../meeting-her-brother.html is our little blog for her friends and neighbors who ask about her. Please #run3rd for her. And, healing her heart is physical, rather than emotional.<br />
<br />
Kimi Shields #Run3rd for me and all those suffering from one of the rarest and most disabliing conditions in the world. Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva. It's one in two million. There are only around 800 known cases in the world. I haven't let it stop me though. I am a college graduate seeking employment despite my limitations<br />
<br />
Kim Matis Friedlander #Run3rd for Liam and his family<br />
<br />
Renee Lillie #Run3rd for UCC - the victims, their families, their community #UmpquaStrong #IamUCC<br />
<br />
Tammy Spence Trauger #Run3rd My name is Tammy Spence Trauger, In memory of my beautiful sister, Natalie Stephens who passed at the tender age of 42. A wonderful mother and wife, will always be in our hearts. Thank you very much Sean Astin.<br />
<br />
Jennifer Batchelor DeFranco #Run3rd for Michelle Nuckles who is a 35 year old friend of ours who was recently paralyzed from shoulders down after an accident. They were set to adopt a second baby the week after the accident. Please also include her husband and their 3 year old adopted son.<br />
<br />
Laurie Weiner #Run3rd, Sean you are the dedication. You give so much back to society, this Ironman is for you! Have an amazing time. I will be cheering for you from Ohio! Show them how it is done!<br />
<br />
Becca Crowley Please #Run3rd for the cancer patients I treat. Some we put through hell to try to save their lives and some we can only hope to reduce symptoms. They are an amazing group and I wish people knew some of their stories but it would be morally wrong (and illegal!) to tell. And if you have another spare moment please run for my colleagues as well. It can be a tough job, especially treating kids. Thank you! I will be thinking of you next weekend.<br />
<br />
Arianna Caponi Ben This is a beautiful thought, dear Sean,so thank you indeed. Could you please add, if it's possible,for the people in need which i work for : #Run3rd for every people in needs, strugglin' their battle not only for their life, but also against bullying. A giant battle, and a bright victory on Life. Thank you Sean, you are really a beautiful person and i wish you the best and also..Run3rd for you! Best of luck<br />
<br />
Megan Crawford Hi Sean, please run for our son little John. You know my husband John, he was Beecake's drummer until he moved here to the States from Scotland after we married. Little John is 3 years old & at 9 months he was diagnosed with a spinal condition called Transverse Myelitis. This was brought on by the flu virus. He went from being paralyzed from the neck down to what you will see on Sunday in Fort Lauderdale, as we will be there. He doesn't walk (yet!) but his neurologists believe he will with time and physical therapy. You have been an inspiration to me for many years & admire all you do<br />
<br />
Rachael Bird #Run3rd for Rachael Bird and her son Coby who had Autism. He has had challenges beyond what I can comprehend and I'm so proud of him and he is who I Run3rd for!! He is 13 and you met him at the Disneyland 1/2 weekend. Thank you for being so open and willing to take your time to talk to everyone, Run for us and our causes and show us how to make others a priority as well as our families!!!! We will be praying for you and your amazing accomplishment<br />
<br />
Shiloh Strawn #Run3rd If you would, please run for the memory of my grandmother, Marjorie Ledbetter. She passed away last month due to vascular dementia. She was a strong-willed woman who loved her family to the very end. It was hard to see her go downhill so quickly, but I know she's in a better place now. She would have been 86 this month.<br />
<br />
Shanan Davidson Sean, will you please #Run3rd for Carolyn Rimpson and for the people who knew her, loved her, and called her friend. Carolyn was 61 and had some disabilities, but it did not stop her from loving her job & caring for her elderly mother before she passed. My step-daughters worked with Carolyn and along with other coworkers became concerned that she did not show up to work. She always called her job a few hours before and never missed a day. Sadly, everyone's worse fears were realized when her body was found a few days later in an abandoned house, two blocks away from her home. If the ability to inspire others would help you during this triathlon, I guarantee that you would be moving at the speed of light. Do doubt about it..YOU GOT THIS! Thank you!<br />
<br />
Amanda Fincham #Run3rd for my mom, Joyce Fincham. ..she's battling lung cancer and is recuperating from major surgery. ..she had part of her lung and part of her paricardium (around the heart) removed too. She'll start chemo soon as well. Thank u and good luck Sean!<br />
Penny Fay #Run3rd please run for me Penny Fay and my family. We have tough times ahead for us. Thank you, you are an amazing man.<br />
<br />
Dawn M. Nelson #Run3rd for the amazing Sean Astin I love your strength and power. #Run3rd for my sister Beth. Breast cancer. #Run3rd for Lillian Nelson just diagnosed at the age of 8 with type 1 diabetes<br />
<br />
Maile Alegria #Run3rd for you, Sean Astin, for your tireless dedication to others and things you believe in. Take time for yourself and good luck!<br />
<br />
Ravenna Neroon Sean. Please #Run3rd for our First Responders. You know me. My shield brothers and shield sisters are hurting. We just lost another one of our own. It would mean a lot if you kept us in your thoughts. Be Well. I know you'll rock this.<br />
<br />
Jenine Bell #Run3rd Jon Lavallee, my uncle, who died from complications of Lyme disease. My mother, another uncle and grandpa have also been diagnosed. There are many undiagnosed cases and many suffering due to this disease. It is very hard to diagnose and is a great pretender. It can mimic so many different diseases. Thank-you!<br />
<br />
Allison Steinberg #run3rd for all who participate in Team in Training to fight cancer, all those who can't participate because they are fighting something, no matter what it is, and for the Goonies who never say die!!! GOOD LUCK IN KONA!!!<br />
<br />
Gabrielle Burong #Run3rd for YOURSELF!! All the best for your big day. As you take time to reflect on others I too will take time the night before your race to pray for you x<br />
<br />
Deborah Andoetoe Sean, please #run3rd for my daughter Krystin who is having cervical fusion surgery on the 13th of October. This is the result of severe whiplash (car accident) on a person with genetic hypermobility (Ehlers Danlos Syndrome) often referred to as being double jointed.<br />
<br />
Susan Haskett Glover #Run3rd for Team MR8!<br />
<br />
Shirley Newman #Run3rd for my teammate and friend Rob Winter who is fighting colon cancer with everything he has in him.<br />
<br />
Heather Niles Children's Tumor Foundation Massachusetts Neurofibromatosis. This is the disorder I was born with. #Run3rd<br />
<br />
Angeca Jolley #Run3rd for my dear friend Kathy who passes one week ago from cancer and to all of your fellow Goonies who adore you!! You got this!!!<br />
<br />
Andrea Milman #Run3rd. Please run for everyone here in NC and our neighbor state, SC for all those who will be affected by the historic rain event we are experiencing right now, and the effects of Joaquin have not even started. Thank you! Kick butt!<br />
<br />
Bethany Proudfoot #Run3rd for all those children who are in slavery, sex trafficking and abusive situations. Run for those who are in the field actively helping rescue those out of these situations.<br />
<br />
Christina Spindler Berta #RUN3rd for me and have a wicked awesome time!<br />
<br />
Teresa Maher #Run3rd for one of my dearest friends who lost her husband to cancer this past Wednesday. We will be attending his funeral on the 10th. Will be praying for strength and endurance for you Sean!!<br />
<br />
Rebecca Kane Carrell #Run3rd for my dad Tom Kane. A good man in every sense of the word. Heart disease took him too early, but he is by my side in everything I do.<br />
<br />
Kelli Gartner #Run3rd for the Root River Rollers who are with you in spirit!<br />
<br />
Carrie LeBrescu Ross #Run3rd in memory of my mom, Cathy LeBrescu, who lost her battle with cancer in April 2010<br />
<br />
Carol Perry #Run3rd Sean, please run for those suffering from Huntington's Disease as many in my family have.<br />
<br />
Anne Darnell-Ashburn #Run3rd for the women of Pink Phoenix Breast Cancer Survivor Dragon Boat Team from Portland, Oregon.<br />
<br />
Julie Lewis Richardson #Run3rd in memory of our brave daughter, Jennifer Nigro, who passed away last Nov. from pancreatic cancer. #Run3rd for my mom in law Carol Elgin who is battling esophageal cancer. Thank you, Sean. Have a great race!<br />
<br />
Nicole Wangen Sean...I am in my 19 year fighting Lupus (SLE). Please run for Lupus. This horrible disease can attack anytime, anywhere. Been hospitalized enough times for my whole family. Not to mention the number of times I was close to death. Good luck on this amazing journey & keep us posted!<br />
<br />
Sarah Hanisko #run3rd for our military spouses. We always need the support of our neighbors and right now one I assist with the Red Cross is dealing with a massive post surgical infection, a 2 year old and her husbands command will not release him from deployment.<br />
<br />
Elizabeth Tom Stuart #Run3rd October is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss awareness month - so, for all the couples and families who have had to endure this grief and loss, that they may receive comfort, peace, and hope. Thanks, Sean, for bringing us into your personal journey through this time!<br />
<br />
Wendy Morgan #Run3rd for all that are battling cancer. Thank you. God bless<br />
<br />
Molly Maka Please #Run3rd for my friend Barb who was diagnosed with cancer. Good luck! We will be cheering you on from here!<br />
<br />
Justen Staudinger My Sister Amanda Staudinger Just finished her last radiation treatment this past week<br />
<br />
Kirsten Bartlett #Run3rd please in memory of my daughter, Zoe, and for all the children fighting cancer. Sept was childhood cancer awareness month. But I'm not sure many were aware of that.<br />
<br />
Laura Crouch #Run3rd Please run for me Laura Crouch and my grandfather Don Crouch, I was diagnosed with Autism since the 1st grade and I have to face this problem every day of my life, also my grandfather had passed away 4 years ago and I hope you will pray for him during your triathlon please. Thank you so much Mr. Sean Astin! I will root for you the entire run and hope you can exceed past you're expectations!! With love from your friend, Laura Crouch aka Bebe<br />
<br />
Jennifer Hovelson-Albrecht #Run3rd for a continuously kind and giving world to be filled with love and joy for all. My continued hope and prayer daily for a kinder world.<br />
<br />
Michelle Crouse #Run3rd for my daughter Keara the day you run is her 15th birthday. Good luck<br />
<br />
Shawna Kaiser Cottrell #Run3rd for Amy Lavore Elliott and others that have passed away from rare cancers like LMS. Never forget the rare cancers!!<br />
<br />
Tina Larson-Fugere #Run3rd for all our brave men and women serving our country!<br />
<br />
Anna Carlson #Run3rd I ask only for awareness for the LGBT community, and for those who (for lack of a better word) have a lack of sexuality...so many people hate and dismiss those who are part of the community, and there's so many more that don't fall under the LGBT title - including gay TG, pansexual, genderqueer, etc - and I just want the hate to end. Thank you so much for doing what you believe in, and for being amazing. Much love, goonies never say die!<br />
<br />
Joy Dieguez My dad who is having a painful neck recovery from neck surgery.#run3rd. And if it's not to much to ask, could you also #run3rd for an epic Star Wars movie?<br />
<br />
Laurie Krebs #Run3rd for Tammy Payne Church and her for her son Travis who has been battling cancer. They're BOTH so strong and amazing!<br />
<br />
Manda Lujan #Run3rd Manda Childrens Cancer and Heart foundations to help the children.<br />
<br />
Marina Marquez-Corado #Run3rd Please run for my father in law who is in the hospital. Hopefully he will be out soon<br />
<br />
Jennifer Larson #Run3rd for everyone impacted by the school shooting yesterday at Umpqua Community College. Our state needs all the love and support we can get.<br />
<br />
Jill Ann Marie #Run3rdforyourrundisneyfamily<br />
<br />
Karen Evans Padua #Run3rd for Brendan Padua and Autism Awareness. Thanks Sean for you do!<br />
<br />
Janet White please dedicate this to all of the individuals who do not have the physical ability to even stand on their own, let alone do something we all take for granted such as being able to walk - God be with you Sean, and keep you safe through this amazing journey - thank you<br />
<br />
number1raphfan @seanastin how'd you know I have...had...an aunt with breast cancer? @bexoutdoors that was my aunt… Please #Run3rd for my grandma who's in the hospital and for my grandparents who just got out of the hospital,and for me because I have Cystic Fibrosis.Please do it for my aunt who died with breast cancer. Thank you. Please also #Run3rd for @tmnt.gravityfalls_4_life 's cousin Jamie, who has cancer.<br />
<br />
polgaracat Please #Run3rd for those who lost lost their lives and those who were injured in the shooting at Umpqua Community College in Oregon.<br />
<br />
Michaela @kildenree @SeanAstin #Run3rd for chronic illness awareness!<br />
<br />
Erin D @TheMightyErinD @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for my son. He lives with #epilepsy. Good luck in Kona!<br />
<br />
Cheyanne Witte @CheyGirl1 Hey all #Run3rd team captains, let's all #Run3rd this week for @SeanAstin to do well in Kona!<br />
<br />
Maddi C @mads_107 @SeanAstin #Run3rd run for the innocent cops that have been shot and killed this year<br />
<br />
Rhi Anderson @anderson_rhi @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for one of our Rugby League guys learning to walk again after becoming a quadriplegic<br />
<br />
Crispi-Chan :3 @Crispitina30 @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for my grandpa who was diagnosed with Alzheimer three years ago, and for all of us who take care of him. Thanks <3<br />
<br />
Robert Cook @brewdah #Run3rd for my wife Heather and others with Rheumatoid Arthritis who had their love of running stolen by this rotten disease<br />
<br />
Pablooo Seguraaa @pablosegura2002 @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for my cousin who has brain disease. Love you sean<br />
<br />
Samantha Smith @sammy250676 @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for my mum who died of cancer 5 years ago who I miss every single day. And for those who are fighting it today.<br />
<br />
Jill Li @j1ruchan @SeanAstin Pls #Run3rd for 2 brave ladies: my bff @ckmyuen, who survived breast cancer, & Cristina, who is battling St 2 metastatic cancer<br />
<br />
Laccie @Lacciea24 @SeanAstin #Run3rd for my grandparents that have had cancer<br />
<br />
берти и крышечка @rina_aronde @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for my brave father who lived for 10 years with incurable form of cancer&was defeated by it last year.Thank you.<br />
<br />
confy jess @ARNlEGRAPE @SeanAstin #Run3rd FOR THE GOONDOCKS<br />
<br />
Sue @Morgans_Circus @SeanAstin #Run3rd for the children that no longer can. @FightDMD<br />
<br />
Angela Green @chasingmiles @SeanAstin Pls #Run3rd 4Lucas who was just diagnosed w/brain cancer 2wks ago #ThumbsUpForLucas http://bit.ly/lucasfish <br />
<br />
Micah Stover @StoverMicah @SeanAstin #Run3rd for God's glory!!<br />
<br />
confy jess @ARNlEGRAPE @SeanAstin #Run3rd for the death of Joey Trotta<br />
<br />
Cindy Changyit Levin @ccylevin @SeanAstin please #run3rd for victims of gun violence<br />
<br />
Eve @evelienh @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for my my grandmother who has Alzheimer's, may we still have many beautiful moments with her<br />
<br />
Eve @evelienh @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for my cousin who had a gorgeous baby girl last week but has just been diagnosed with prenatal depression<br />
<br />
RESULTS St Louis @RESULTS_STL @SeanAstin please #run3rd for all the @RESULTS_Tweets advocates lobbying to #savemomsandkids<br />
<br />
ChristopherStargazer @ChrisStargazer @SeanAstin Please #Run3rd for everyone fighting Barret's Esophagus, for everyone fighting to hang on longer and.. well you know what to do.<br />
<br />
Claire Marie @schaeferbear031 @SeanAstin #Run3rd for my grandma, dealing with her second tumor w/in the past few months.<br />
<br />
Lisa Dunster Moeller @lldmoe @SeanAstin #Run3rd for Umpqua victims and heroes and to refuse the shooter the fame he sought #refusethemfame<br />
<br />
Kim Miller @Kimberly9573 @SeanAstin #Run3rd in honor of my sister in law Rochell and all the others battling breast cancer. Thank you! You got this Sean!<br />
<br />
!!! @lrhswish @SeanAstin #run3rd for my constant battle with epilepsy since i was 3 and continuously pushing through all the hard times because of it<br />
<br />
Susan @sadrian0916 @SeanAstin run for my daughters and all other survivors of PTSD it's so difficult to live life with it #Run3rd<br />
<br />
ChickenHatCheerer @ChickenHatCheer 18 @SeanAstin #Run3rd for Give Kids The World. Make dreams come true!<br />
<br />
Maddi C @mads_107 @SeanAstin #Run3rd Sean run for my grandmother who died of cancer<br />
<br />
Marina mechell @Marinamechell @SeanAstin #run3rd for my father who is battling bone cancer, please<br />
<br />
Faith McDonnell @Cuchulain09 @SeanAstin Please #Run3rd for Christians in Iraq trying to survive ISIS and for ppl in Nuba Mts. of Sudan being killed by their own govt. TY<br />
<br />
♡Karissa♡ @KarissaMurr @SeanAstin #Run3rd for anyone who has lost their life due to gun violence in America<br />
<br />
rhiannon @dixongrimes_ @SeanAstin #run3rd for my godfather who we buried today who died of lung and brain cancer<br />
<br />
Leila Soffen ♜ @bigfogiefan @SeanAstin please #run3rd for my friend fighting cancer<br />
<br />
Jimi Wolfe @CaptainJimiPie @SeanAstin I'll be amazed if I'm the first person to tweet this to you! #run3rd but seriously, do it for everyone :)<br />
<br />
Greaser @_80s_Obsessed_ @SeanAstin #Run3rd for my cousin who has acute leukemia<br />
<br />
Stim Soup @StimSoup @SeanAstin Could you #Run3rd for my youngest son Brendan? He is 13 with #autism. Thanks for all you do! Karen @StimSoup<br />
<br />
Jaymi @jaymi_c #run3rd for everyone that needs the extra love and support in their lives. @SeanAstin<br />
<br />
CG Galpal @CGalpal Hi Sean! Would you #Run3rd for anyone who needs help but doesn't know how to ask for it?<br />
<br />
Rich Nagle @ohbuckeyenut @SeanAstin please #run3rd for my friend just diagnosed with cancer. Goes for surgery in a few weeks.<br />
<br />
Tracy Burwell @ATurtlesPace @SeanAstin this outpouring of #Run3rd dedications is simply beautiful! U have provided hope and love w/ this simple act of kindness!<br />
<br />
Jimi @everydaymycroft @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for my mother who has her cancer check up this month<br />
<br />
dorian @euphoricphoenix @SeanAstin #run3rd for all of those who are battling cancer, my mom passed from it<br />
<br />
Joy @bugnjoy @SeanAstin please #run3rd for a @Cubs World Series<br />
<br />
confy s @RIVERSDARLING @SeanAstin #Run3rd for those who are suffering from depression and anxiety daily<br />
<br />
Tim @txbrutus @SeanAstin #Run3rd for my dad and all others enduring long struggles with cancer and the treatments that physically/mentally exhaust them<br />
<br />
♡Karissa♡ @KarissaMurr @SeanAstin #Run3rd for my Aunt who is currently battling leukemia, and for her newborn son too <3<br />
<br />
Annie✨ @TheBoudicca @SeanAstin #Run3rd for what is closest to,your heart.<br />
<br />
Stacy Dillon @mytweendom @SeanAstin #run3rd for all of those dealing with #Lyme and the politics preventing care.<br />
<br />
Will Fredericks @Bigwill619Will For a cause like #Run3rd I would also say 4 my Brothers & Sisters in arms abroad a safe a speedy return home. PLEASE<br />
<br />
Clementine @19Clementine76 @SeanAstin #Run3rd for my 14 year old daughter who fights a battle every day not to self-harm.<br />
<br />
Heidi @praeriedikter @SeanAstin Please #Run3rd for your #Loyals They are my family by choice & the most bestest people you can have in your life!!<br />
<br />
Heidi @praeriedikter @SeanAstin Please #Run3rd for our beloved @LindaofNote who is fighting some kind of a virus & laryngitis. Thank you so much!!<br />
<br />
Tracy Burwell @ATurtlesPace @SeanAstin Please #run3rd for those battling Meniere's disease! #NoMoreWhirlie #Run3rd for #MoreGoodDaysThanBad<br />
<br />
Nichole deSnark @LostTeleri @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for those disabled by chronic pain, who can't run for themselves!<br />
<br />
MaryEllen #Loyals @MaryEllen9064 @SeanAstin :Please #Run3rd for my friend Bill who is battling bladder cancer.<br />
<br />
The Peachy Geek @MamaPeachyKeen @SeanAstin #Run3rd for everyone like myself living with multiple sclerosis.<br />
<br />
Kelli Shrewsberry @RunwithTLC @SeanAstin I'm looking thru the #run3rd feed feeling so proud 2b a Team captain. Some powerful dedications!<br />
<br />
JT @The_Technician1 @SeanAstin #Run3rd for my 2 boys w/Autism, and all the other families that have been affected…<br />
<br />
Becky A @beckya75 #run3rd for @ParkinsonCanada @SeanAstin<br />
<br />
brenda @BILLYTEPPER @SeanAstin #run3rd for Shawn Phelan<br />
<br />
confy jess @ARNlEGRAPE @SeanAstin #run3rd FOR A GOONIES 2<br />
<br />
Cheyanne Witte @CheyGirl1 @SeanAstin Please #run3rd for my BFF/brother @Leosavesyou who lost his beloved husband just a couple months ago.<br />
<br />
darrowbythirsk @darrowbythirsk @SeanAstin #Run3rd for me, if you're willing. I have a lump in my leg, and get a biopsy on Tuesday.<br />
<br />
brenda @BILLYTEPPER SeanAstin #run3rd for jilly !!<br />
Johanne Brøsted @JBrsted @SeanAstin please also #run3rd for Geoff Murrin, who had a tumor surgically removed from his brain yesterday.<br />
<br />
Cheyanne Witte @CheyGirl1 @SeanAstin Please #run3rd for me to get a final offer to get into the Sheriff's academy this month! All tests done and passed!<br />
<br />
Ashley S @ilonikash420 @SeanAstin #run3rd for every family effected by war/ domestic terrorism<br />
<br />
EvilBeastMonkey @Reverend_Ruth @SeanAstin Please #run3rd for my father in law, who has dementia, and all of us who are trying to care for him.<br />
<br />
Heidi @praeriedikter Run(bike&swim) safe, run (bike&swim)strong<br />
<br />
confy jess @ARNlEGRAPE @SeanAstin #run3rd for my battle with diabetes<br />
<br />
Sarah Ferreira @sarahf2525 @SeanAstin #Run3rd for those of us who live with aspergers everyday<br />
<br />
mikey @MikahJenkins @SeanAstin #run3rd for my biology grades bc they are slacking<br />
<br />
Macie A Carter @MacieACarter @SeanAstin please #Run3rd to #EndHatred<br />
<br />
Will Fredericks @Bigwill619Will @SeanAstin Run for my fellow Disabled Vets.. #run3rd I wish I could run with you Sean<br />
<br />
L i z ✨ @lilredlizzie @SeanAstin Please #Run3rd to end the stigma of mental illness<br />
<br />
Johanne Brøsted @JBrsted @SeanAstin Please #run3rd for my friend @FabianBolin who is fighting Leukemia, at present in hospital with an infection and no immunesystem.<br />
<br />
Linda Iroff @LindaofNote @SeanAstin Please #run3rd for Sean Astin, whose open heart & determination inspire so many.<br />
<br />
CFMNews Taffy @lijeyeshaveit @SeanAstin please #run3rd for @Catherine_17 who can't eat due to her multiple mystery illnesses.<br />
<br />
*Paula* @Mominkyle @SeanAstin #Run3rd for Laura Mayes who is battling metastatic melanoma like a boss.<br />
<br />
Linda Iroff @LindaofNote @SeanAstin Please #run3rd for my 2 dears friends @praeriedikter & @ATurtlesPace<br />
<br />
bella @BellaLeitch @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for my little brother who has been struggling with autism. My family and i would really appreciate it<br />
<br />
Teresa Wong #Run3rd for all those battling cancer and those that have lost the battle to it. Thanks!<br />
<br />
Sean Shurtleff #run3rd for the hartle family!! They recently lost their 8 year old son to cancer! They are absolutely amazing people and have always kept a positive attitude! It was a hard loss! THANK YOU SEAN ASTIN!! The kids name is OWEN! He was an amazing young boy! :)<br />
<br />
marianelisa You are amazing! Please #Run3rd for @radcampoc #Run4Rad<br />
<br />
mollieowl #Run3rd for @meagainoneil who started her 6th round of chemo this past week, hoping it's her last. #meganselves<br />
<br />
RESULTS St Louis @RESULTS_STL @SeanAstin pls #run3rd for these passionate @RESULTS_Tweets volunteer advocates working together to #EndPoverty<br />
<br />
Linda Iroff @LindaofNote @SeanAstin Please #run3rd for my 94 yr old mom, just admitted to hospital with heart arrhythmia.<br />
<br />
valdislongbeard Please #Run3rd for my dad who started chemo this last week.<br />
<br />
Leslie Perrin Sean please run for all those who have passed away with breast cancer and those who survived this horrible illness. Run for my Aunt Lucy that passed away 3 yrs ago from ovarian cancer. There is not a day that doesn't go by that I don't miss her terribly. She truly was an angel on earth. She touched so many.<br />
<br />
Maureen Aranda Sean please #Run3rd for Tressie Hallisey, my mom who was just laid to rest with my dad yesterday. She had heart disease and kidney failure. I am Maureen Aranda, Sue Friend that works at Goofy's kitchen, we have talked a few times. Thanks for being so kind!<br />
<br />
Scottie Good Mattausch #Run3rd For those of us with PCOS please. Always<br />
<br />
Carrie Dean Dunagan #Run3rd for the Rudy's out there!<br />
<br />
Rachel Nash Please #Run3rd for the people of Charleston. "We're gonna wash away,"<br />
<br />
Tara Young Landis #Run3rd for my mom Sharon who is fighting breast cancer. #Run3rd for those affected by Autism<br />
<br />
noelledawes #run3rd for more love then hated<br />
<br />
Pablooo Seguraaa @pablosegura2002 @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for muy cousin who has a mental illness, and for all children in Africa who are struggling against Ebola<br />
<br />
Sara @sarastrigoi @SeanAstin #run3rd For my Mother who passed away in January from Ovarian Cancer. and Myself who was diagnosed with Cervical cancer in May.<br />
<br />
Yasmine Matar @yasminematar @SeanAstin Pls #Run3rd for every individual affected by #musculardystrophy incl. my friends Anthony & his devoted mother @caroleauclair<br />
<br />
Notorious V.E.L. @Dat_Khaleesi @SeanAstin Run for the understanding and acceptance of Autism, and to remove the stigmatisms of mental illness. Please <3<br />
<br />
Sarah Diamond @Voxpax2 @Run3rdSean @SeanAstin pls run for #SPNFamily especially for those dealing with depression #AKF @jarpad<br />
<br />
Shel Asher Run for me Shel Asher. I was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer in June. There is no cure. I have a 7 yr old daughter, Eliza. She is an amazing kid. My husband has been an emotional rock through this. Run for us. We will cheer from Kansas City! Thanks so much.<br />
<br />
Karen Lee @Esmerelda555 @SeanAstin #Run3rd for Umpqua Community College #RoseburgStrong<br />
<br />
Carolee Davis Eubanks Please #Run3rd for the people who would never dream of participating in such an event, but will see you and by your example be inspired to start trying. Someday they might #Run3rd for you.<br />
<br />
ChristopherStargazer @ChrisStargazer @SeanAstin #Run3rd to help to shine a light on abuse. Trying to fight a place condemned by the UN that people have fought for 40 years.<br />
<br />
Meggie G @Ohcomeonnow @SeanAstin #Run3rd For Major Justin Fitch. Here's his story: thechive.com/2015/10/04/ame…<br />
<br />
Rachel @themadhobbit @SeanAstin Sean, could you please, please #Run3rd for the people of South Carolina? I am away from home and unable to get back. #luckyone<br />
<br />
David Day @dday247 @SeanAstin Please add Columbia, SC & this whole area to your #Run3rd list. We got hit incredibly hard with historic flooding.<br />
<br />
L i z ✨ @lilredlizzie @SeanAstin Could you please #Run3rd for the all victims & families of the shooting in Oregon?<br />
<br />
Megan @PhickOTM @SeanAstin please run3rd for me. Got diagnosed with two diseases today. But I'm gonna keep on being positive.<br />
<br />
Nathan Lee @bekindtobignate @SeanAstin can you please #run3rd for my friend Jessica and her family who lost their home to a fire over the weekend<br />
<br />
CG Galpal @CGalpal @SeanAstin Thought of you while watching a swimmer push along past the buoys this a.m. I will #Run3rd (walk) to change "I can't" to #ican.<br />
<br />
Cheyanne Witte @CheyGirl1 @SeanAstin #Run3rd for me to do well with this huge career change I am about to embark on!<br />
<br />
Jodi Scott @jolysco @Run3rd5k @SeanAstin #teamrun3rd - Please #Run3rd for #mckenzie who is started chemo today. Thank you!<br />
<br />
V @MsVifUplz @SeanAstin plz #Run3rd for Alzheimer's cure. I'm running the Chicago Marathon Sun10/11(my1st marathon)4 my Aunt who passed from it last Dec.<br />
<br />
Cindy Overton @cinderlins @SeanAstin Any chance you could #run3rd for me as I embark on a new challenge? Started exercising so I can hopefully run a marathon one day!<br />
<br />
Marilyn Sehn @121bombero @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for me. I had a stroke and need healing. I am 68 same as your mom. Thank you.<br />
<br />
Leah @Leahmari11 @SeanAstin pls #run3rd for me...my bday is this weekend. Wish I was still in Hawaii to celebrate & cheer you on.<br />
<br />
Molly Maka Sean, if it's not too much trouble, I had one more dedication. Could you #Run3rd for my brother, Evan. He was diagnosed with diabetes. We don't know much more at this point. Thank you!<br />
<br />
Aniko Pusztai @pofallgalaxies @SeanAstin please #run3rd for the hundreds of children in need, the real victims of war #Syria #refugeecrisis #Europe<br />
<br />
Marianne Schwab @TravelProducer @SeanAstin #RUN3rd in memory of those who lost their lives last week in Oregon. #UCC You're the REAL IRON MAN.<br />
<br />
Krista Maxwell #Run3rd for my brother, Brian Martin, who died too early from complications from Neurofibromatosis and for all those who are living with NF<br />
<br />
Alex Kallio @DrAlexKallio @SeanAstin #run3rd for my 7 year old daughter Maya who has autism. Someday I hope to race #IMKona myself for her! #goodluck<br />
<br />
Marcus Finch #Run3rd for anyone who has ever been ridiculed for being different.<br />
<br />
Leah @Leah_Cevoli @SeanAstin #Run3rd for our planet! #Run3rd for my kitty Keifer currently at the treatment center!! :) #Run3rd for my brand new nephew Max, born 13 weeks early and holding on like a champ!<br />
<br />
Brinton Running Club @BrintonRunners Our thoughts go out NAU - @SeanAstin please #Run3rd for the victims of the shooting this morning their loved ones. #stopshootingpeople<br />
<br />
ashleywiththecaramellatte #Run3rd run for those who have forgotten what the spark of inspiration feels like.<br />
<br />
Jamie Stephen @mordsithangel @SeanAstin #Run3rd For my son with ADHD who fights every day to learn and my preemie who beat all the odds!<br />
<br />
Wendy Gibson @wendster73 @SeanAstin Please #Run3rd for a quick rehabilitation for my mother in law who just had spinal surgery. Run strong, I'll b thinking of u!<br />
<br />
Linda Iroff @LindaofNote @SeanAstin You’ve done the hard work. You’ve put in your training. You have the heart and determination (or gumption as @purplepatch would say). You are ready. Your family, friends and fans know you will do this. We #run3rd for you.<br />
<br />
Lupe Steele @LupeSteele @SeanAstin #Run3rd for the #Loyals! Without you we'd be aimlessly wandering this planet. We thank you & love you for bringing us together<br />
<br />
MaryEllen #Loyals @MaryEllen9064 @SeanAstin We, #Loyals love you, we stand by you and with you! You are ready. You will ace this! #Run3rd for YOU!<br />
<br />
MaryEllen #Loyals @MaryEllen9064 @SeanAstin #Run3rd for a classmate of mine: Deanna and her family. She passed away today from renal failure.<br />
<br />
Lupe Steele @LupeSteele @SeanAstin #October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. #Run3rd for awareness, early detection and a cure. Please #Run3rd for Jill and her family. Their cat past away this morning. #Loyals<br />
<br />
Selena Salisbury @lilbirdnbranch @SeanAstin pls #Run3rd for my friend Shel. Run for her relapsed breast cancer.<br />
<br />
Yasmine Matar @yasminematar @SeanAstin Pls #Run3rd for the courageous men, women & children who are trying to break & are breaking away from #domesticviolence #Loyals<br />
<br />
Leah @Leahmari11 @SeanAstin One more #Run3rd to add...Merv's aunt had surgery today & unfortunately it left her blind in one eye.<br />
<br />
Michella Flores @Pilotgal Run third for my sister Krista, who has Muscular Dystrophy and her service dog Nin #Run3rd<br />
<br />
Izha Sommar @IzhaSommar @SeanAstin #Run3rd like the wind! Pls also for my wonderful, awesome, strong grandmother, 91 yrs, with cancer. She will beat this!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Updated 10/10/15 7am ET</span></i></div>
<br />
<br />Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-6061492672076523112015-09-30T16:26:00.000-04:002015-10-05T11:39:44.920-04:002 Rudy’s Together – Star of Rudy, Sean Astin, Partners with Rudy Project<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/2rudys" style="border: 0px; color: #336699; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="sean1" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6981" src="http://www.rudyprojectusa.com/press/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/sean1.jpg" height="246" scale="0" style="border: none; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" width="619" /></a></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Star of <em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Rudy</em>, <em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Lord of the Rings</em> and <em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Goonies</em> Partners with Italian Sports Brand Rudy Project to Support His IRONMAN World Championship Race & Raise Funds for After School Running Programs Through the IRONMAN® Foundation</strong></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</strong></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Denver, CO (September 30, 2015) –</strong>Rudy Project, crafters of the #1 Most-Worn Aero / TT Helmet at the IRONMAN® World Championships for the last four consecutive years, is thrilled to announce a partnership with Kona-bound athlete and world-renowned actor <strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Sean Astin</strong>. Already accustomed to identifying himself with the name Rudy, Sean’s leading role as Daniel Ruettiger in the award-winning 1993 film <em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Rudy</em> made him a household name, but today, with the help of Rudy Project, he is using his celebrity status to inspire others with his global<strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> #Run3rd®</strong> campaign.</div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/2rudys" style="border: 0px; color: #336699; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="sean6" class=" wp-image-6982 alignleft" src="http://www.rudyprojectusa.com/press/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/sean6.jpg" height="279" scale="0" style="border: none; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" width="222" /></a>“Cycling is a thrilling sport and every time I climb on my bike, I know that it can be dangerous,” Sean shared. “I feel more comfortable on the streets and biking down hills knowing that I’m protected by the best technology in the field. The helmets all fit perfectly. I wear several different models depending on the day, terrain and whether I’m on my road bike or tri bike. One day I started to pedal but was in too low a gear and fell over and hit my head hard on the cement. I took off the helmet and wiped off the scratch. I stood embarrassed in the street staring at the helmet and realized I probably would have had a concussion or worse if I wasn’t wearing it. The point is that it worked. I love that I’m working with such a solid company. In the movie Rudy, Rudy follows his dreams and never quits. In my pursuit of Kona, I’m following a dream and I will never quit. I’m proud to have the Rudy Project on board to support this dream.”<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
“When Rudy Project first came to North America 17 years ago, there was sometimes confusion between our company name and the movie Rudy,” said President and Co-Founder of Rudy Project North America, Paul Craig. “I can’t believe it’s now come full circle and we’re actually partnered with the legend that played that role. I’m elated that IRONMAN chose Sean to race this year for his charity, and am proud that Sean chose Rudy Project to elevate his performance and keep him safe while racing. As the Official Helmet of IRONMAN for North America, it makes a natural pairing for both Rudy Project and IRONMAN to help Sean’s charity cause in every way possible. To this end, Sean will be speaking at our exclusive party in Kona on Tuesday, October 6, relating his passion for athletics, running and triathlon, and helping to inspire kids to a crowd of editors, top pros and VIPs from around the world. I can’t wait to cheer him on as he crosses the finish line on Saturday in Kona!”</div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Even though he is highly recognized for his role as Rudy, Sean initially made his film debut at age 13 playing Mikey in Steven Spielberg’s <em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Goonies</em>. Sean also experienced a career breakthrough in the early 2000s, when he played Samwise Gamgee in <em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Lord of the Rings </em>blockbuster trilogy. To date, Sean is using leveraging his success as a star in Hollywood to initiate the global athletic movement – #Run3rd®.</div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="https://www.crowdrise.com/2015IronmanWorldChampionship/fundraiser/seanastin/donate/85" style="border: 0px; color: #336699; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="sean5" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6983" src="http://www.rudyprojectusa.com/press/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/sean5.jpg" height="191" scale="0" style="border: none; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" width="619" /></a></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
#Run3rd is an inspirational social media campaign, which aims to inspire runners by dedicating their races to loved ones, causes, and ideas. It was started by Sean in January 2012, and has grown to encompass thousands of runners, walkers, and others around the globe who have taken its meaning and mission into their hearts:</div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“1<span style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">st</span> I run for me. 2<span style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">nd</span> I run for my family. 3<span style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">rd</span> I run for YOU.”</em></strong></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/2rudys" style="border: 0px; color: #336699; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="sean4" class=" size-full wp-image-6984 alignleft" src="http://www.rudyprojectusa.com/press/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/sean4.jpg" height="297" scale="0" style="border: none; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" width="188" /></a></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Using the hashtag #Run3rd, the initiative asks these everyday athletes to tweet a dedication for someone they love, a cause they believe in, or any positive statement. Since its inception, #Run3rd has developed rapidly into a major online campaign, and in April of 2015 held its <a href="http://www.run3rd5k.com/" style="border: 0px; color: #336699; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">first official 5k run in Mesa, AZ</a>. Today, Sean is focused on taking #Run3rd to the next level by personally competing in one of the world’s most recognized and grueling full-distance triathlons to raise funds for after school running programs, and Rudy Project will help him.</div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
The IRONMAN® World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii is a 2.4 mile swim, followed by a 112 mile bike race and then a full marathon. Sean was chosen by IRONMAN® as an ambassador this year as he races for his cause. By doing so, Astin will raise $25,000 for #Run3rd to help grow and fund afterschool running programs, but he isn’t finished there.</div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Sean is working with the IRONMAN Foundation to support the fundraising for #Run3rd. A <a href="https://www.crowdrise.com/2015IronmanWorldChampionship/fundraiser/seanastin/donate/85" style="border: 0px; color: #336699; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Crowdrise campaign</a> has been set up to raise funds to help provide kids an opportunity to get involved in running and to #Run3rd. There are multiple rewards in place for donors, including the first 25 people to donate $1,000 or above to this movement will automatically be sent a <a href="https://www.e-rudy.com/en/products/detail/HL530051US" style="border: 0px; color: #336699; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Rudy Project Wing57</a>, the same Aero / TT helmet Sean will be rocking in Kona. You can visit the Crowdrise page to support the movement.</div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Rudy Project has also created a unique discount code for those who wish to give back to this inspiring charity movement, as well as race in the fastest gear in the world. <a href="http://bit.ly/2rudys" style="border: 0px; color: #336699; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Head over to www. e-rudy.com using this link, and percentage of all purchases will go towards the #Run3rd global initiative.</a></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> <a href="http://bit.ly/2rudys" style="border: 0px; color: #336699; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="sean2" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6985" src="http://www.rudyprojectusa.com/press/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/sean2.jpg" height="318" scale="0" style="border: none; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" width="619" /></a></strong></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">About Rudy Project</strong></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Performance Italian Sunglasses, Helmets, Goggles + Rx/Prescription Eyewear Solutions • Unbreakable ImpactX-2 Lenses • Designed + Crafted in Italy for over 30 years • Family Owned Since 1985 • Official Helmet of IRONMAN for North America • #1 Most-Worn Aero / TT Helmet at the IRONMAN World Championships in Kona, Hawaii for the last four consecutive years • #1 Gold Medal Winner in Winter Olympics (Torino). • Over 100,000 sponsored athletes and ambassadors • Replacement Lens Guarantee, even against scratches • <a href="http://www.e-rudy.com/" style="border: 0px; color: #336699; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">www.e-rudy.com</a></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Media Contacts:</strong></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Devin Johnson – <a href="mailto:djohnson@gorace.pro" style="border: 0px; color: #336699; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">djohnson@gorace.pro</a></div>
<div style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Teri Weigel – <a href="mailto:teri@thecreativegrouppr.com" style="border: 0px; color: #336699; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">teri@thecreativegrouppr.com</a></div>
Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-89197435443860093902015-09-16T07:09:00.001-04:002015-09-30T16:27:23.962-04:00Sean Astin Launches #Run3rd Fundraising Campaign<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://gofundme.com/run3rd" target="_blank"><u><b>#Run3rd Fundraising Campaign</b></u></a></h3>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>"Fitness combined with a structured emphasis on community should be available for every student.”</i> —Sean Astin</blockquote>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gofundme.com/run3rd" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="http://gofundme.com/run3rd" border="0" height="347" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB6pcbpOG_tyEvWSZmVT0-BTkC7IQ8eEYkfr4uKUPqubGZZW7Dqu7B9nNe1nZl6dSfl10KcGnzLRqYB4oU8GOKUD_tB_1EMRVudGQmOnWLT6raJPiGL5NRx70wom7HUFijmtleX5I/s640/Sean+and+kids.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sean Astin with kids at the Inaugural #Run3rd 5K in Mesa, AZ, April 11, 2015.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
From <a href="http://ironman.com/" target="_blank">IRONMAN</a> - <i>"Sean will be in for one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of his life! It will inspire people and show them that anything is possible (who better than RUDY!). His background, commitment to competition and eagerness to immerse himself in philanthropic activities makes him a great ambassador for the sport. We are thrilled to welcome Sean into the IRONMAN family in October.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DTSy4kjNy2sa_MiR8khriArPDJFII0H94Eo8yd8hIxoqlE9i8_FZcwRAIeRTnLwX1L_6vrAeLcdM8UnHuaOmfSxRA-mLzGJU69oeLxZsAigkSH38S8X7fqrtd5wu2XNlh3-eSww/s1600/12010501_1082679785086476_9193827786164224108_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DTSy4kjNy2sa_MiR8khriArPDJFII0H94Eo8yd8hIxoqlE9i8_FZcwRAIeRTnLwX1L_6vrAeLcdM8UnHuaOmfSxRA-mLzGJU69oeLxZsAigkSH38S8X7fqrtd5wu2XNlh3-eSww/s320/12010501_1082679785086476_9193827786164224108_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i>"The IRONMAN World Championship is a 140.6-mile swim-bike-run event on October 10, 2015, on the Big Island of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. The “Super Bowl of Triathlons” will provide Sean a global platform to promote his philanthropic passion. He will be competing among professionals, amateurs and everyday athletes."</i><br />
<br />
Soooo, after close consultation with my family, I decided to give it a go. The Ironman organization will donate $25,000 to my #Run3rd charity upon completion of the race. I’ve created this crowdfunding platform to make it easy for people who are watching me pursue this dream help student/runners follow theirs. I’ve set an extremely ambitious goal of $50,000.<br />
<br />
The fundraising page <b><a href="http://gofund.me/run3rd" target="_blank">gofund.me/run3rd</a> </b>explains the basic premise of how I will manage the distribution of the funds.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://gofundme.com/run3rd" target="_blank"></a>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://gofundme.com/run3rd" target="_blank"><img alt="http://gofundme.com/run3rd" border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75c9ZgWrYG1Zn27XqDWE2MtO_tI7iJyMH-TVKi6y3fNfT2V0M_xeEq8WSWVCUmK4EXumzogE3PzcfmgrWEF_hogvuZDWc9aBUjdXYuPt91Y4YI4TI_6H0oubv_uyFZpKlRbcsbGQ/s400/Screen+Shot+2015-09-16+at+5.16.16+PM.png" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<b>The #Run3rd Story:</b> #Run3rd has grown from an idea and this blog to a community and a mission. A <a href="http://facebook.com/groups/run3rd" target="_blank">Facebook group</a> blossomed. <a href="http://run3rd.blogspot.com/p/team-captains.html" target="_blank">Team Captains</a> volunteered. There were "meet ups" at race events. Signs and banners were crafted. A <a href="http://armorgames.com/play/15232/run3rd-the-game" target="_blank">video game</a> was made. All the while, we asked for people to make dedications for their loved ones and causes, and when they did, we embraced them into our hearts; we most certainly did #Run3rd for all of them. With Linda Iroff’s (creator and manager of this official run3rd.com blog) passion and dedication, the message of run3rd was consistently nurtured. She made sure that many practical issues were handled and much creativity was unleashed. She trademarked "run3rd" and worked with a designer on the <a href="http://run3rd.blogspot.com/p/run3rd-logos.html" target="_blank">logo</a>. A virtual 5k was held.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhDogbRbY_Cqgqg8NM7sMvaW6xvaFCyPwpL6YzfoU2gQwiF2ea9n3OW_Zc_y1VcFpuCLf8n9uRSaNxf5-P6He_tDZ5IGSnGAokNS55eRgUKg17WddGxd90mTMsgzebIP8p4xU13HY/s1600/run3rd_colour1_500px.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="98" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhDogbRbY_Cqgqg8NM7sMvaW6xvaFCyPwpL6YzfoU2gQwiF2ea9n3OW_Zc_y1VcFpuCLf8n9uRSaNxf5-P6He_tDZ5IGSnGAokNS55eRgUKg17WddGxd90mTMsgzebIP8p4xU13HY/s320/run3rd_colour1_500px.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Then, earlier this year, the #Run3rd concept took a major step forward with the running of the <a href="http://run3rd5k.com/" target="_blank">Run3rd5k</a> in Mesa, AZ. Mindy and Kris Przeor demonstrated vision and professionalism in organizing the race. It was a massive success on a financial level, but it was also a wonderful community gathering with students, families, run3rd supporters, school administrators, local political leaders and a wonderful array of sponsors. Together, we all raised enough money to donate $10,000 to the after school running programs at Briton Elementary and other schools in the district.<br />
<br />
Combining the $25k from Ironman and the money raised through the<b> <a href="http://gofundme.com/run3rd" target="_blank">GoFundMe campaign (gofund.me/run3rd)</a></b>, I intend to continue the great example from throughout the history of #run3rd, and specifically building on the run3rd5k success, proudly supporting other Elementary After School Running Programs that incorporate the #Run3rd value of selflessness and compassion.<br />
<br />
Thank you so much for learning about the campaign. I hope you are able and willing to pitch in.<br />
<br />
Respectfully and gratefully yours,<br />
Sean Astin<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=39969456542158390" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=39969456542158390" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D39969456542158390%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D8919743544386009390&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-QHvyVd4lbGw%2FVflG9kLzOuI%2FAAAAAAAAOKU%2FnsNGWDWeFT0%2Fs640%2FSean%252Band%252Bkids.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=AzEgCEEW1Nbm&description=http%3A%2F%2Fgofundme.com%2Frun3rd" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 33px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 129px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D39969456542158390%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D8919743544386009390&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-QHvyVd4lbGw%2FVflG9kLzOuI%2FAAAAAAAAOKU%2FnsNGWDWeFT0%2Fs640%2FSean%252Band%252Bkids.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=AzEgCEEW1Nbm&description=http%3A%2F%2Fgofundme.com%2Frun3rd" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 33px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 129px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D39969456542158390%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D8919743544386009390&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-QHvyVd4lbGw%2FVflG9kLzOuI%2FAAAAAAAAOKU%2FnsNGWDWeFT0%2Fs640%2FSean%252Band%252Bkids.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=AzEgCEEW1Nbm&description=http%3A%2F%2Fgofundme.com%2Frun3rd" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 33px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 135px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D39969456542158390%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D8919743544386009390&media=https%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-QHvyVd4lbGw%2FVflG9kLzOuI%2FAAAAAAAAOKU%2FnsNGWDWeFT0%2Fs640%2FSean%252Band%252Bkids.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=AzEgCEEW1Nbm&description=http%3A%2F%2Fgofundme.com%2Frun3rd" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 33px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 135px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-15886142379625505022015-09-03T21:30:00.000-04:002015-10-09T13:23:26.181-04:00Sean Astin: Training for the Ironman World Championship TriathlonEarlier this year, Sean Astin was invited to take part in the <a href="http://www.ironman.com/triathlon/events/americas/ironman/world-championship.aspx#axzz3kig53ChD" target="_blank">Ironman World Championship Triathlon</a> in Kona, Hawaii, on October 10, 2015. The event consists of a 2.4 mile swim in open water, a 112 mile bike race, and a full 26.2 mile marathon.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sean has been training in earnest for several months, and has already participated in two shorter triathlon events: the Ironman Vineman 70.3 Triathlon in Sonoma, CA, on July 12, and the Cranberry Trifest Olympic in Lakeville, MA, on August 23.<br />
<br />
Here are some postings, videos and photos from Sean about these events and his other training regimen as he prepares for this incredible challenge.<br />
<br />
<b><i>July 12, 2015:</i> Ironman 70.3 Sonoma, CA</b><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoY3qKGAHd7lOMPCpFMuAeOL4EprWkOqk01BrKU4KW5iwu7kO_nRmQAW2DLbHN0THDhx48s_jUPlWiaiAJ0hTlj07DjMDR3PXv1xwXwqClL4bL_JqP6kRjAVPrketJbw86ZCfgcyw/s1600/+CJuySj-UMAQ4YwN.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoY3qKGAHd7lOMPCpFMuAeOL4EprWkOqk01BrKU4KW5iwu7kO_nRmQAW2DLbHN0THDhx48s_jUPlWiaiAJ0hTlj07DjMDR3PXv1xwXwqClL4bL_JqP6kRjAVPrketJbw86ZCfgcyw/s400/+CJuySj-UMAQ4YwN.png" width="400" /></a>Who's that guy in the California jersey? Wait a minute. It's me!!! This Sunday, I completed my first Ironman 1/2 Triathlon. That's right folks, I'm Half an Ironman, or a Halfling if you will…<br />
<br />
It was called the Vineman 70.3 in Sonoma.<br />
<br />
Here's the math: 1.2 mile swim -- 56 mile cycle -- 13.1 mile run. I completed it in 7 hours and 25 minutes and felt great afterward.<br />
<br />
Have a gander at some pics taken by my friends Kris, Mindy & Eli:<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>So much fun!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJSuD1XKzOE-LP5ZzfyiEKO3oe2U6HFHjblb5anwrjmBj3P77iy4Lic6434Inae5Qpa8KP15ELzPyN5ty2dCGaDAweiK8B2zaUdZWqb3Deax0PmzfszjF-AFPrimxiw3AGzjZ22M/s1600/+CJuTMTnUwAIxsEX.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJSuD1XKzOE-LP5ZzfyiEKO3oe2U6HFHjblb5anwrjmBj3P77iy4Lic6434Inae5Qpa8KP15ELzPyN5ty2dCGaDAweiK8B2zaUdZWqb3Deax0PmzfszjF-AFPrimxiw3AGzjZ22M/s320/+CJuTMTnUwAIxsEX.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1GWSx950GhoRMlhnyf6b1TgJEvIVnh8hPZWd_48u50v8Zxnft24TnTgXl0Cx0mZ2pRnUGzlUZxnR1QCFeHZrWR3Jc-HLVqPuFRfdjR90edisFYJSyJr5COU17EFwNO3-w9F5xwDY/s1600/+11539090_1052656238088831_2035117078213555084_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1GWSx950GhoRMlhnyf6b1TgJEvIVnh8hPZWd_48u50v8Zxnft24TnTgXl0Cx0mZ2pRnUGzlUZxnR1QCFeHZrWR3Jc-HLVqPuFRfdjR90edisFYJSyJr5COU17EFwNO3-w9F5xwDY/s320/+11539090_1052656238088831_2035117078213555084_o.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8AsXFAgrbvlAU-irxGc_57bD7YtHEDTHbMoFbpdECEHosp1mCqEBM-4oJrZigJjQ8gNkXnT8EHqtsAVDEa5q1-hQ1CLBROlojrRNygKdEs_A7bhHApTJ8X3QlvDmEuwEgS4C1V4/s1600/+sean-astin-03-600x800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8AsXFAgrbvlAU-irxGc_57bD7YtHEDTHbMoFbpdECEHosp1mCqEBM-4oJrZigJjQ8gNkXnT8EHqtsAVDEa5q1-hQ1CLBROlojrRNygKdEs_A7bhHApTJ8X3QlvDmEuwEgS4C1V4/s640/+sean-astin-03-600x800.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b><i>August 7, 2015:</i> Over Hawaii</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuoWUteofe3mdfjNIi_8TYRYIfRxpNKQcgKqxv_dcIP2YLE-KU-5SnUjNmOxXUk35qUuT9evlnw_SuspzIG7qJZaBJ73LTqCIGPJlH70oDVjifPX291brrVgrujMEyjVf15NiBUI/s1600/11807713_1062354067119048_7578687260242124159_o.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuoWUteofe3mdfjNIi_8TYRYIfRxpNKQcgKqxv_dcIP2YLE-KU-5SnUjNmOxXUk35qUuT9evlnw_SuspzIG7qJZaBJ73LTqCIGPJlH70oDVjifPX291brrVgrujMEyjVf15NiBUI/s640/11807713_1062354067119048_7578687260242124159_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The Field of Battle… </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
My quest to complete the World Championship Ironman Kona, Hawaii Triathlon this October 10th, within the allotted 17 hours has reached a fevered pitch. Just around 60 days left to train… </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
I took this snap last Sunday flying into Kailua-Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, then I spent 4 days cycling up and down the so called "Queen K" that loooong and undulating road you can see stretching the length of the horizon. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
This week, Paul, my bike guy from Purple Patch (more on that company and my Uber Coach Matt Dixon later), Paul, my cycling guru took me through the paces of all three disciplines, the swim, the ride and the run... Getting to train in the actual water and the very roads of the event will most certainly make the difference in my chances to succeed. He told me that temps got above 110 degrees on a run or two and on the 3 then 7 hour rides...the winds would gust hard enough to shove our bikes back and forth across the road...exciting and dangerous, but par for the course apparently. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Well, Paul whose day job is to coach dozens of professional Triathletes into winning careers, worked really hard to help me try and discover some measure of what I'm capable of, one gem was that he gave me a key word to focus on as I approached my work, "relentless." It worked. He tried to make me smarter and tried to get me comfortable in a decidedly uncomfortable universe. Through the pains and frustration, I actually loved every second of "Hell Week." </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The word I think of now, looking at this picture, which represents a nice chunk of the 56 miles of road, that prayers be answered, I'll see every inch of twice on the out and back...the word that blankets my entire being as I take a thousand deep breaths a day contemplating the test, summoning whatever strength of body and mind I can in preparation for this 2.4 mile swim, followed by a 112 mile bike ride and topped off with with a full 26.2 marathon is… </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Humbling…</blockquote>
<b><br /></b>
<b>August 19, 2015: Redondo Beach, CA</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh1lXQzh8zXm5h1giD96n7_tDo9fM0p4a2_d38tPtGJkw0YIWgHlkncqcqU1cLY9anR2I5oWDZNE00YzEYJSuTi-zfFRPKpA0VAA53W9Os15lO2TRdDb8WItge26Ftj2oGa6w7i4w/s1600/11873405_10206552845571217_2846003428894732265_n.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh1lXQzh8zXm5h1giD96n7_tDo9fM0p4a2_d38tPtGJkw0YIWgHlkncqcqU1cLY9anR2I5oWDZNE00YzEYJSuTi-zfFRPKpA0VAA53W9Os15lO2TRdDb8WItge26Ftj2oGa6w7i4w/s1600/11873405_10206552845571217_2846003428894732265_n.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
"While this may not be the most flattering pic, it represents a truly triumphant moment for me. I've been training hard in the pool for months, but the open water has been giving me da nerves… On this day, I beat back the demon and got it done! Special thanks to Coach Gerry and everyone at Tower 26 for taking great care of me!!!"<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><i>August 23, 2015: </i>Cranberry Trifest, Lakeville MA</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhofa3Z1eF_W8VvL3o2rVwfqzqFoW2MU0GNQJEqJ8iWWT6XmNv1db-G5AJZ80B-bSmuvRCxViD67TTDLG129eZTHt6_nJ9afgearuqDjhVyeANVLP0nv6sImHH2kQ0_tQcPxKGtS4c/s1600/AR-150829589.jpg%2526MaxW%253D650%2526MaxH%253D650.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhofa3Z1eF_W8VvL3o2rVwfqzqFoW2MU0GNQJEqJ8iWWT6XmNv1db-G5AJZ80B-bSmuvRCxViD67TTDLG129eZTHt6_nJ9afgearuqDjhVyeANVLP0nv6sImHH2kQ0_tQcPxKGtS4c/s1600/AR-150829589.jpg%2526MaxW%253D650%2526MaxH%253D650.jpeg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUi4uNMC4GP0S60B8Fbj0n5pCO7k_Kn0ZCF1wvDbAE_mRUup2rsOb9O1K9WD82PMQlHBcqmcfwPxiG0EBbkTBHsCI-tyxrrH0LTS3VpP_AFxJIWbK_3I9b288VTziQLrMp4IbN0Zk/s1600/EP-150829589.jpg%2526MaxW%253D650%2526MaxH%253D650.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUi4uNMC4GP0S60B8Fbj0n5pCO7k_Kn0ZCF1wvDbAE_mRUup2rsOb9O1K9WD82PMQlHBcqmcfwPxiG0EBbkTBHsCI-tyxrrH0LTS3VpP_AFxJIWbK_3I9b288VTziQLrMp4IbN0Zk/s320/EP-150829589.jpg%2526MaxW%253D650%2526MaxH%253D650.jpeg" width="216" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj93Vglub3t97sey0u7VzQS9t-5JSWS9Z12AgrfiZekgBwoP7SJzrD_598CbC_x54nWQeWiXZ1J4cH2wqwpJX-HnZScP3SZpawSvMVFx9HwXf5wdjR_bBuzDrLxEf5J8d906zBPuwE/s1600/CNIZ6-AWcAA7u3-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj93Vglub3t97sey0u7VzQS9t-5JSWS9Z12AgrfiZekgBwoP7SJzrD_598CbC_x54nWQeWiXZ1J4cH2wqwpJX-HnZScP3SZpawSvMVFx9HwXf5wdjR_bBuzDrLxEf5J8d906zBPuwE/s320/CNIZ6-AWcAA7u3-.jpg" width="201" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><i>September 2, 2015: </i>Malibu, CA</b><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/RwxwgTD9OSU/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RwxwgTD9OSU?feature=player_embedded" width="640"></iframe></div>
<i><br /></i>
<i>"</i>T-Minus 37 days until I compete in the Ironman World Championship Triathlon in Kona, Hawaii. I haven't been sharing much of my training, because I've been too busy training. But, today was a milestone, so I just uploaded this update video. There is a hypnotic quality to watching nothing but a guy swimming, I chose not to add music or anything. Anyhow, I hope you like it. <br />
<br />
#Run3rd for believing in yourself and dreaming big!!!"<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><i>October 7, 2015:</i> Kona, Hawii</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAa0Kw_p9WMYeffG_DUQGR3-x0lU3_UyPiNYGfRB3Ydf6_DwYu7E4MNtVYvaU-uIny-_v6Px8xtrXRzW96uKNrS9iiPwdzZgxCcQFrMkGwCtQIHIOHYcs9I-bB5RTEDEK-SucV2Zs/s1600/12087860_1092790087408779_6350124886006741343_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAa0Kw_p9WMYeffG_DUQGR3-x0lU3_UyPiNYGfRB3Ydf6_DwYu7E4MNtVYvaU-uIny-_v6Px8xtrXRzW96uKNrS9iiPwdzZgxCcQFrMkGwCtQIHIOHYcs9I-bB5RTEDEK-SucV2Zs/s640/12087860_1092790087408779_6350124886006741343_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
"Finally, I'm in Kona, Hawaii. My Ironman Championship Triathlon is just 4 days away. This morning's workout with Team Purple Patch wasn't easy. But, I'm feeling pretty determined. #Run3rd for readiness…"<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-18361671050972644522015-05-29T06:16:00.000-04:002015-06-02T22:06:03.645-04:00Sean Astin's Bolder Boulder 10K Report<div style="margin-bottom: 6px;">
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Submitted by Sean Astin, <a href="http://twitter.com/seanastin" target="_blank">@SeanAstin</a></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">May 25, 2015 - Memorial Day</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Today, I ran the Bolder Boulder 10k. It was the best produced event of that length that I've ever participated in. Congratulations to the event organizers!!! Thanks to Colorado University Boulder for your hospitality. To the dedicated community (including those handing out beer to daring slip and sliders on your lawns, the several people handing out bacon {weird}, all of the volunteers and the many many bands and musical acts: 2 belly dancing troupes, a Operatic performance (Magic Flute?), an Aerosmith cover band with-musta been an 11 year old girl playing Steven Tyler, the animal frat looking house screamers and on and on… WICKED COOL FUN BLAST!!!</span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ciD-o0DmlegEZdUYFkDEoWyfyTyHeDrJ3MijcjABADbEKqcBuhTVSPN9ni0mQFNGsZ86PMPZj7XJxXiR8MsvIWjhmiaqTSupuh0asQnIb8NXnASuG79os4IO1h1e9O-bITKiR0U/s1600/11032589_1023323247688797_2989248122020379049_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ciD-o0DmlegEZdUYFkDEoWyfyTyHeDrJ3MijcjABADbEKqcBuhTVSPN9ni0mQFNGsZ86PMPZj7XJxXiR8MsvIWjhmiaqTSupuh0asQnIb8NXnASuG79os4IO1h1e9O-bITKiR0U/s640/11032589_1023323247688797_2989248122020379049_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Folsom Field, Colorado University Boulder</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, 'lucida grande', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, 'lucida grande', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Boulder CO, you are a gorgeous town, if I wasn't married to LA, I'd seriously love to grab a drink with you.</span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">The story goes like this, I went to Denver ComiCon Friday through Sunday. The energy at the convention was electric. People were totally into it, costumes and laughter from the opening to the closing bells. I had a great time meeting fans, taking pictures, signing autographs, doing a couple of generously attended panel discussions. Awesome!!!!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">My last flight out Sunday night to LA was Cancelled, doh!!! Well, I had given fleeting consideration to staying an extra day to run the Bolder Boulder. But, my family is in LA waiting for me, so there's an experience deferred. OR NOT!!!! If I have to stay the night anyway... Well, the mad scramble to the Customer Service Desk was on so people could get their vouchers and rebook for tomorrow.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Not Seany-Boy… This is how I roll: "Honey, can you book me a car and a hotel in Boulder really quick, I'm gonna try and talk the airline people into pulling my bag off of the plane instead of just checking it onto the first flight in the AM." —PAUSE— "I wanna run in the Bolder 1/2, the altitude will be great training and the unplanned 1/2 will test me. It'll make me a few hours later, but I wanna do it." Her immediate reply came in the form of a vibration on my phone, an Avis rental car reservation confirmation." To say she's cool, is to give that word a major upgrade.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Smiles and Pictures with the United Baggage Claim team and I'm off to the Rental Bus. Oops, it's not a 1/2 it's a 10k. Well, I've come this far, I might as well jump into the Kia boxy thing, and check out this much ballyhoo'd 10k (6.2 miler).</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Man, what a treat. These folks had their s*#% down to a science.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">I ran anonymously except for one young lady who shook my hand and told me I made her Bolder. I replied, "that's awesome thank you" and then tried to wrap my head around what she meant.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">But, here's the thing that I want to highlight, that should be the real take away from this day… Well, it was the 2nd event this weekend for me, whose premise was to celebrate/honor Memorial Day.</span></span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLTjWL_N9-7nvpQwjfXDAZbkQVwlXxVDS9BgJ_0Lap8s_0bPlNOy3DOJiHCeQhec5V6h8C0nfwuEh371TWjuzoXABHw0gtmKRCwiTzzn4ucG-8gWHTl-Rk25qhnkI0exo19UpKWkY/s1600/11249761_10203473270187185_5718055753438909270_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLTjWL_N9-7nvpQwjfXDAZbkQVwlXxVDS9BgJ_0Lap8s_0bPlNOy3DOJiHCeQhec5V6h8C0nfwuEh371TWjuzoXABHw0gtmKRCwiTzzn4ucG-8gWHTl-Rk25qhnkI0exo19UpKWkY/s400/11249761_10203473270187185_5718055753438909270_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Colorado Veterans Project Memorial Day 10K</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">The Saturday before this, I ran in the Colorado Veterans Project "Memorial Day Run & March to Feed Homeless Veterans" in Castle Rock. This was a humbling 10k out and back run. On the way "home" I was seriously feeling the altitude, but dozens of soldiers with 25lb ruck sacks were just heading out on their 100 year Norwegian Tradition 30k trek. If they did it swiftly enough, they could add that badge to their uniforms. Needless to say, I tried to smile, nod, gesture, grunt my gratitude and try not to look like I was going to throw up as they passed. Truly an honor to participate with them on Memorial Weekend. The Chaplain made some lovely remarks, but he said something I disagree with. He said that this Memorial Day is not for saying Thank You For Your Service to our Service Members, it's for remembering the ultimate sacrifice that has been made by (I think he said 5 million-mighta heard it wrong) military persons over the couple hundred year history of our Nation. Of course, he's right, but I wouldn't have communicated it that way. It's ALWAYS a good day to thank Soldiers and their Families for the sacrifice they make on a daily basis. I mention this because I know that the phrase "Happy Memorial Day" buzzes as disrespectful. I'm pretty sure that the Chaplain meant that reverence and perspective are the right mixture for observing this National Holiday.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Then today, I had climbed to the top of the bleachers at Folsom Field, the home gird iron at CU Boulder. That's where I took the picture at the top of this post. The moment depicted is a standing ovation that spontaneously erupted when a group of Marine's carrying their Standard and Old Glory marched into the arena. It put a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes. Later a man in his sixties, hobbling and leaning heavily on his crutches, brought the 20,000 runner crowd back to their feet.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Awesome.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dwmB0KW90qOWjCuxbh2joR3yJ0Xa1ZDhqRDcdt2FvO-b-sIoJfaeKtCWOQBWtCj-Rk80JB-8C3064O4d9rF91Zn8By_xNUUxyJR8itFRvSnJ5jmheBIE0yDc_dieB1aJAXLFQpE/s1600/race_681_photo_18505896.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dwmB0KW90qOWjCuxbh2joR3yJ0Xa1ZDhqRDcdt2FvO-b-sIoJfaeKtCWOQBWtCj-Rk80JB-8C3064O4d9rF91Zn8By_xNUUxyJR8itFRvSnJ5jmheBIE0yDc_dieB1aJAXLFQpE/s400/race_681_photo_18505896.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">I am a runner. In recent days, that's been easy to remember and hard to live. But, today... Having substantially adjusted to the 5,200+ feet of altitude and found myself on slightly sturdier legs, I look to the Ironman Kona Triathlon on October 10th, just 4 months away, and I know that, when I've finished the cycle through the lava fields and I'm once again back in my shoes and following the long ribbon of asphault, I will journey back to today… the mountains, the cool breeze and welcome sunshine, the silliness and sober reflection… I will draw inspiration from the Bolder Boulder 10k…</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">I will remember the joy, the return of endorphins which have eluded me for awhile and the sense of peace that was a gift to this runner on this day.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">A Prayer of Gratitude for All of Our Service Members and Their Families, Living and Passed, and My Prized Freedom that They Dearly Paid For.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Much Much Love,</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Sean</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23run3rd&src=typd&vertical=default" target="_blank">#Run3rd</a> for Our Service Members & Their Families.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">PS My "anonymity" gave way to enthusiastic tweets with the media after the run. Below are a couple stories they published. LOVE IT....</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
• <a href="http://www.thedenverchannel.com/sports/actor-sean-astin-impressed-by-bolderboulder-after-deciding-to-run-at-the-last-minute" target="_blank">http://www.thedenverchannel.com/sports/actor-sean-astin-impressed-by-bolderboulder-after-deciding-to-run-at-the-last-minute</a><br />
• <a href="http://www.9news.com/story/entertainment/2015/05/25/racing-tradition-continues-with-bolder-boulder/27908899/" target="_blank">http://www.9news.com/story/entertainment/2015/05/25/racing-tradition-continues-with-bolder-boulder/27908899/</a><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">PPS This is a grab of me entering the stadium. If you can't find me quickly, picture Mikey from the Goonies, 30 years older, many pounds heavier and internally jumping for joy, while externally sucking wind. Oh… there I am!!!!</span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1OlasWo3mhRqKO1YZp1ax3GUEs530BKdawj66Paw65pFyk-hF9JcbmQdqftSPYqrtSsN6VNystfwrs5zyidzYJFGIDYVByIQEjvtmuxbwB-aYoOI7Lp3PcC53Ltl_ywUP7O5j68/s1600/11337038_1023323464355442_2464369142303851660_o.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1OlasWo3mhRqKO1YZp1ax3GUEs530BKdawj66Paw65pFyk-hF9JcbmQdqftSPYqrtSsN6VNystfwrs5zyidzYJFGIDYVByIQEjvtmuxbwB-aYoOI7Lp3PcC53Ltl_ywUP7O5j68/s640/11337038_1023323464355442_2464369142303851660_o.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy The Denver Channel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7FxHAcb0TZWufQdVaaZGG8Lsdi2xfH7ui_gexGmSFBM3nB_n5ZHlDZpwvg7uXKzSc7xcpbxDvpfaJDUniD0G9cz37lstQpOSI9HPOqFsEX0hsdqNcUZWWrQvFbvF58ZA0UNkVXQ/s1600/race_681_photo_18986432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7FxHAcb0TZWufQdVaaZGG8Lsdi2xfH7ui_gexGmSFBM3nB_n5ZHlDZpwvg7uXKzSc7xcpbxDvpfaJDUniD0G9cz37lstQpOSI9HPOqFsEX0hsdqNcUZWWrQvFbvF58ZA0UNkVXQ/s640/race_681_photo_18986432.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, lucida grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div>
Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-33603388473755465372015-04-22T10:24:00.000-04:002015-04-24T14:26:47.964-04:00Sean Astin's Boston Marathon ReportSubmitted by Sean Astin, <a href="http://twitter.com/seanastin" target="_blank">@SeanAstin</a><br />
<br />
<b>Boston Marathon 2015. Finish Line.</b><br />
<br />
Denise and Jane Richard are cheering and smiling as each of the 73 members of their Team MR8 come across.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBAVoANnAfaakXRhlZkvr6VlIsuWPWGRPuukixHHmLgAMPT8LXVcAas_SeghNmIX-CrtQZtOip0aRduV4Bt4y7UN8SC2pTICLqO2IySiKSyDdij9YYFFlixbvOAm5EJck94olnMl8/s1600/MG_2048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBAVoANnAfaakXRhlZkvr6VlIsuWPWGRPuukixHHmLgAMPT8LXVcAas_SeghNmIX-CrtQZtOip0aRduV4Bt4y7UN8SC2pTICLqO2IySiKSyDdij9YYFFlixbvOAm5EJck94olnMl8/s1600/MG_2048.jpg" height="584" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I did what I said, and tried to honor young Martin Richard (8yrs old) as I passed the site of the tragedy by reflecting on everything that happened that day and since. After 4 hours and 49 minutes of cold and rainy 26.2 mile crowd fueled, leg demolishing awesomeness, I had prepared myself to end the run on a note of reverence.<br />
<br />
Then there they were, Jane (9 years old), standing, jumping up and down with her prosthetic leg, courtesy of that awful day, and Martin's mom, Denise with a huge smile of, can you believe it, gratitude of all things. A smile back and a kiss on the hand later, I turned and lost it.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyifNvRBRX-HutDzR1griwhJUuZnZrdQ2S41qYcPbxsMyNeBZFKiPnK1ylibZE12wmifDW9vtW-n9xXDoCAdn_0mRq-gIkDTCYYrewHwT6vc4JfYzOUjISHyAS_NLFGcqbidnWFqE/s1600/7512964_G.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyifNvRBRX-HutDzR1griwhJUuZnZrdQ2S41qYcPbxsMyNeBZFKiPnK1ylibZE12wmifDW9vtW-n9xXDoCAdn_0mRq-gIkDTCYYrewHwT6vc4JfYzOUjISHyAS_NLFGcqbidnWFqE/s1600/7512964_G.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
News media and others were around, so I bottled it, but something wonderful happens inside when the electricity of greatness visits you. This family showed no fear, not a shred of perceptible anxiety, even if they privately had some. They were enjoying themselves. What a lesson. What an incredible demonstration, not just of resilience and faith and goodness, but of grace and wisdom. It's people like this that are the best hope for advancing our too often beleaguered civilization. This is what progress looks like.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWm_Dj5LwS7BUwUDlIKZ_MrNsVJ5xQ6yLvSTnYmUeY3rv1TedssfNyzvlk0YwjFe48l_lJ49T-F8yPpWDUvzY4QSekdxse5xDT7boTBq6qrxN5_2CgLfRfvwL7ceKwDFLlFxl6FjA/s1600/042115SeanAstin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWm_Dj5LwS7BUwUDlIKZ_MrNsVJ5xQ6yLvSTnYmUeY3rv1TedssfNyzvlk0YwjFe48l_lJ49T-F8yPpWDUvzY4QSekdxse5xDT7boTBq6qrxN5_2CgLfRfvwL7ceKwDFLlFxl6FjA/s1600/042115SeanAstin.jpg" height="216" width="320" /></a></div>
My answer was to race back to the starting line in Hopkinton and, alone in the dark and comically stormy night, cycle my way back across the 26.2 mile Marathon route. Even though they had a 2.5 hour head start, I caught up with race director Dave McGillivray and his intrepid amphibious running mates and their motorcade, 800 yards from the finish line.<br />
<br />
Unreal.<br />
<br />
That duathlon was the official kickoff to my Ironman Kona training. October 10th on the Big Island of Hawaii, I'm gonna test myself again.<br />
<br />
But for now, I'll simply saturate in yesterday's overwhelming and gratifying experience.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji1ZBj7deHIH09-Vdq_o5C3uSuu_akitwoTYkxq21xjBORbNxLpZ5AR1dX8u-Z0GBWF7DGNpiuOv2fqn-Hc6Co1bI_783Y2R1P6JY6BOpckfpXcBZkEYq1PB-0C2Y1o2S3oQFx9Qg/s1600/11181812_1009101555777633_3148333416340842893_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji1ZBj7deHIH09-Vdq_o5C3uSuu_akitwoTYkxq21xjBORbNxLpZ5AR1dX8u-Z0GBWF7DGNpiuOv2fqn-Hc6Co1bI_783Y2R1P6JY6BOpckfpXcBZkEYq1PB-0C2Y1o2S3oQFx9Qg/s1600/11181812_1009101555777633_3148333416340842893_o.jpg" height="400" width="297" /></a></div>
Our Team MR8 raised over $770,000. My friends, family, colleagues, supporters, fans and all of you here on social media, sponsored my run and raised $23,000. There were, I believe 450 of you, and I estimate that the average donation was between $25 and $50, with a few people putting in $1k or more that jacked the number up a little higher.<br />
<br />
You all gave the Richard Family and the foundation they established in their late son's honor a financial boost. This money equals just a little more power to help a bunch of people. Good work, everyone! I thank you with every fiber of my being.<br />
<br />
As for all of you who made personal #run3rd dedications for your loved ones and causes close to you, I read them all and I carried them all in my heart as I ran. As predicted, Team MR8 and your trust bolstered my run so so much. So, thank you for those.<br />
<br />
You can still donate to the Team so if you feel like it, here's the link: <a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/SeanAstin/bostonmarathon2015" target="_blank">firstgiving.com/fundraiser/SeanAstin/bostonmarathon2015</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Much Love, Respect & Gratitude Always,<br />
<br />
Yours,<br />
Sean<br />
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmbUsE2AcZEigizJtCYW64YH9nRaPUOjH98IT30bnpbsfCbJmcFIYsrVbLcT-LYG2PMqaloDWyArIRtaZnXpKeQ8OwDTSXq0uxAGNy81mOL3jQ6dfv_3-1ZgkITn1KAutAAMpt2k4/s1600/MG_2054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmbUsE2AcZEigizJtCYW64YH9nRaPUOjH98IT30bnpbsfCbJmcFIYsrVbLcT-LYG2PMqaloDWyArIRtaZnXpKeQ8OwDTSXq0uxAGNy81mOL3jQ6dfv_3-1ZgkITn1KAutAAMpt2k4/s1600/MG_2054.jpg" height="520" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ehbtWLJ0yjCKXPu3dYjULFYY_TC-p29vtXvOx35RhOWFVkTvb7FhM3Y3iOqtvkN8ek_SG0gWSihNoCaEz_ss4ghn4bdiMm7v2zOWBwwx0UGYbeY6i6o6lArKLBphxC86ohNi7cg/s1600/sean-astin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ehbtWLJ0yjCKXPu3dYjULFYY_TC-p29vtXvOx35RhOWFVkTvb7FhM3Y3iOqtvkN8ek_SG0gWSihNoCaEz_ss4ghn4bdiMm7v2zOWBwwx0UGYbeY6i6o6lArKLBphxC86ohNi7cg/s1600/sean-astin.jpg" height="640" width="411" /></a></div>
<br />
Originally <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SeanAstinPublic/photos/a.342798179074644.78267.206339316053865/1007735692580886/?type=1" target="_blank">posted on Sean Astin' Facebook page</a>. </div>
Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-13580388404525899902015-04-14T15:54:00.000-04:002015-04-24T14:28:39.622-04:00Sean Astin's Inaugural Run3rd 5K Report<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifQbUHyKccrrHYVQQel8EVAFzXVk2li8FK3CcOiIEIr2I7DD8kh8XI9R6HSt62lNIIqO4raxo0q5Q9LfD0HOZPPMYa30TLGVeVouu6NeK6jsfNOCuwV-GAZWDkobI1zHxSBcwwsh0/s1600/10687326_1003065516381237_6854553043633026091_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifQbUHyKccrrHYVQQel8EVAFzXVk2li8FK3CcOiIEIr2I7DD8kh8XI9R6HSt62lNIIqO4raxo0q5Q9LfD0HOZPPMYa30TLGVeVouu6NeK6jsfNOCuwV-GAZWDkobI1zHxSBcwwsh0/s1600/10687326_1003065516381237_6854553043633026091_o.jpg" height="400" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_552d5e24664f80096547291" style="display: inline; text-align: start;">
Photo by <a href="http://bertjonesphotography.smugmug.com/" target="_blank">Bert Jones Photography</a></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Submitted by Sean Astin, <a href="http://twitter.com/seanastin" target="_blank">@SeanAstin</a><br />
<br />
Oh, What a day. Our Run3rd 5k on April 11 was a bona fide, legit, 100% success. Race Directors Mindy & Kris Przeor have shown their quality, and it is the very highest. Industry leaders take notice, these two rookies delivered a world class event right out of the chute!<br />
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_552d5e24664f80096547291" style="display: inline;">
<br />
Now, if you forced me to pick from the dozens of life memories we created this morning, this would have to be the moment of the day for me.<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"> Kaleb is a very special boy with special needs.<br /><br />Halfway through 5k run along the nicely appointed desert scape surrounding Red Mountain High School in Mesa, Arizona, young Kaleb (9 years old), was running in the wrong direction.<br /><br />We got to know each other a little before the run, when I was chatting with a bunch of the elementary school students who'd come out to run. He was always the first to raise his hand and his answers were razor sharp and imaginative. In a word, Kaleb was memorable. I did not however, expect to see him running the wrong way, well over a mile into the race. He had to have run the 1st mile in under 8 minutes.</span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br />"What's wrong Kaleb?" I am terrible with remembering people's names, but for some reason, not with his.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjomtf4UV67EKD7DiDttUkWAn92J3abR6p9jb0EMbSu48TTYRMvFRh2YDm_mI7ohaEQXAONQfbnwKkt5w7RC061zu5oA08mIWvYxZIBLBplCrid4K4xOg4JzXM6a4E78VzXXvOcgI8/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjomtf4UV67EKD7DiDttUkWAn92J3abR6p9jb0EMbSu48TTYRMvFRh2YDm_mI7ohaEQXAONQfbnwKkt5w7RC061zu5oA08mIWvYxZIBLBplCrid4K4xOg4JzXM6a4E78VzXXvOcgI8/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" height="188" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="http://twitter.com/lindaofnote" target="_blank">Linda Iroff</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Through tears and a little genuine panic, he replied "My heart feels like its going to explode." I'm not sure where he thought he was going for help. If he retraced his steps exactly, it would be maybe 9 minutes back to the water station. He wasn't in analytical mode though, he was a little kid, whose native confidence and fearlessness drove him into this tough spot.</div>
<div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="display: inline;">
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br />Full disclosure, Kaleb was not the only person to fail to heed my pre-race warning about not starting out too fast. Once again, I broke my own rule and hit a 8:29 first mile. Too quick for me these days. Bonk. Well, not bonk (new word for 'hitting the wall'), but breathing way way to hard. I've got the Boston Marathon next week, should I hit the panic button? No. Long distance runners are a savvy bunch, just breath, think about the future and your breathing will find its comfort zone.<br /><br />So there we are, Kaleb and me, stopped on the 3.1 mile track catching our breath. A hard lesson I've learned too many times. But, the kid was providing me cover to take a 30 second reset, so under the guise of responsible grown up behavior, I snuck in a few deep cleansers. I don't think anyone saw.<br /><br />Reassured that the Run3rd man from that movie was standing with him and talking to him, Kaleb stopped looking around feverishly for someone, anyone that wasn't me. Don't let me overhype it, people were passing us and wishing us well, no drama, just a scene played out on 5k routes all over the world. I don't have a son, but if I did, this would be one of those unforgettable, indelible memories.<br /><br />"Let's do this together," I say, turning and starting back up. Not a slave to the power of suggestion, Kaleb considered and consented. Off we went. After a minute or two of trying to gauge what the heck we were gonna be able to pull off here, I rotated my wrist, fired up my Garmin satellite watch and set it for Galloway. Of course, I'm talking about the walk/run technology that Jeff Galloway pioneered.<br /><br />"Ok Buddy, we're gonna run 30 seconds and then walk 30 seconds, does that sound ok? Can we do that?"<br /><br />Not a quick answer. Again, through delivery room sized heaving, he evaluated the question. It became clear to me once again, that if people who don't have special needs took a page out of Kaleb's playbook, this ol' world would probably be in even better shape.<br /><br />"Ok. Yes. We can," he said, and that's it. That became our pattern for the next 1.5 miles. The books all say that you should be able to carry on a light chit chat as you run. I never can, until today. Here's how some of it sounded…<br /><br />Kaleb: Wouldn't it be great if a Robot could run instead of us?<br />Sean: Yeah, then the Robot would get the medal<br />Kaleb: Yeah.<br />Sean: Do you think Robots want to win medals?<br />Kaleb: I don't know.<br /><br />Kaleb: My feet hurt. Why do they have to make a 5k so long? You know what would be great? If they had hover boards. Wouldn't that be great?<br />Sean: That would be awesome. You know what I would do if they had real hover boards that really worked?<br />Kaleb: What?<br /><br />Sean: Ok buddy, let's pick it up. We gotta earn those walks. It's gonna take way too long if we trot. No no no, don't sprint, just a.... perfect, we can hold this pace right?<br /><br />Kaleb: (totally in the running groove now) Yeah.<br />Sean: I would take my hover board and ride it from my house to the stadium. Then I'd get off of it and run the race. Because, I love running.<br /><br />Looooonnnnggggg pause....<br /><br />Kaleb: You know what I'd do If they made a real hover board?<br />Sean: What big guy?<br />Kaleb: I'd ride it right now.<br />Sean: Yeah?<br />Kaleb: Yeah, I'd right it right now, until my feet stopped hurting and then I'd run again.<br /><br />It went on like this until we stepped off of the pavement and onto the track within sight of the Finish Arch.<br /><br />Well, guess what? It turns out that Kaleb has that same thing that all real runners have, a burning fire in the belly to blaze across the finish line and obliterate any competition crazy enough to stand between us and glory.</span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRw08vHUXNzUXvjK09js9aUAdeFAUYDfXGnZg0ruyJ4JAXGMfKeI77sRlYRyXVpZ_rZMvFRcAvUWGoAkb-ryjfkilqzMkbQaxabUv2Zf2iSCPoIaYUuIlWsThK18r6kfbMS7Ios0k/s1600/Final-0303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRw08vHUXNzUXvjK09js9aUAdeFAUYDfXGnZg0ruyJ4JAXGMfKeI77sRlYRyXVpZ_rZMvFRcAvUWGoAkb-ryjfkilqzMkbQaxabUv2Zf2iSCPoIaYUuIlWsThK18r6kfbMS7Ios0k/s1600/Final-0303.jpg" height="320" width="304" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="http://bertjonesphotography.smugmug.com/" target="_blank">Bert Jones Photography</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Kaleb lowered the boom, dropped the hammer, hit the after burners… This special 9 year old boy, who's thinking is as clear as Stephen Hawking and his heart as big as those breathtaking mountains in the distance, finished his last one tenth of a mile in olympic fashion. </div>
</div>
I matched him measure or measure, but I'm pretty sure his hand, nose and feet crossed the finish line before me.<br />
<br />
Not one to stand on ceremony, Kaleb made a beeline for his Dad I think. I had a great chat with him before the race, coincidentally, or not, depending on how you feel about these things.<br />
<br />
But, I reached out and grabbed him. "Oh no you don't, we ran this thing together pal, you better look at me for a second."<br />
<br />
That's the moment you see above. I will treasure it always.<br />
<br />
All in. Knowing that many people ran their first 5k today, for some, the first organized race of any kind today, creates of feeling of such deep fulfillment that it's hard to put into words.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd5HdkAl8DzsOaHwYdPbIaKPVd8TJtofpTiimzO152Nmyo5G70bxhXRZi8MD5aQbbt0jFEOSdke7SyZ81jiG_HS9gIS69hsq1D3Q6Uq3K4NmvmHl1TPIBuzyHIc4cHWVCGEtUa8uc/s1600/run3rd_colour_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd5HdkAl8DzsOaHwYdPbIaKPVd8TJtofpTiimzO152Nmyo5G70bxhXRZi8MD5aQbbt0jFEOSdke7SyZ81jiG_HS9gIS69hsq1D3Q6Uq3K4NmvmHl1TPIBuzyHIc4cHWVCGEtUa8uc/s320/run3rd_colour_.jpg" height="98" width="320" /></a></div>
I had an idea. Many people breathed life into it. Today, 400 people were walking around with #Run3rd shirts on. Many people didn't know it's my silhouette on the logo. They just know the concept. Totally surreal to see that take place. And yet it was real. I'll post more pictures in awhile, but to the supporters, to the volunteers, the sponsors and the runners themselves, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart.<br />
<br />
I really really do #Run3rd for YOU!!!!!<br />
<br />
Respectfully and excitedly yours,<br />
Sean<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuMF-e5F0BCWNGuQV8UDSQ9246vTQ5h450iuIA3RmdVxZKret4hEWz0RZSbRArA4aZdrBxBsbTpBdBXSUeSeGh5oxJDJXwZsf05xmyFm_TMDaaCf39WqnBJgQXRl9F_8U_XNV9l2U/s1600/10998003_1039981876016475_3396539074880379551_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuMF-e5F0BCWNGuQV8UDSQ9246vTQ5h450iuIA3RmdVxZKret4hEWz0RZSbRArA4aZdrBxBsbTpBdBXSUeSeGh5oxJDJXwZsf05xmyFm_TMDaaCf39WqnBJgQXRl9F_8U_XNV9l2U/s1600/10998003_1039981876016475_3396539074880379551_o.jpg" height="384" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="http://bertjonesphotography.smugmug.com/" target="_blank">Bert Jones Photography</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
</span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">Originally <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SeanAstinPublic/photos/a.342798179074644.78267.206339316053865/1003065516381237/?type=1" target="_blank">posted on Sean Astin's Facebook page</a>. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">
</span>Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-22981466277752436332015-03-19T09:52:00.000-04:002015-04-24T14:31:40.261-04:00Sean Astin: My Team MR8 JerseySubmitted by Sean Astin, <a href="http://twitter.com/seanastin" target="_blank">@SeanAstin</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAHRNWiH-6DmWjdh9d_v1FMgCUz3pOspULy9FOZ3V641-XuPTUWsYexsqrLEuibKyLZE5ut3AGinhtNaKZ_wZF0_vBYBisuBY8gJU_4hNqhfWz9iWAzks8NsytXQ_ckkA4bc8bUI/s1600/11078229_987991191222003_966388359487499999_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAHRNWiH-6DmWjdh9d_v1FMgCUz3pOspULy9FOZ3V641-XuPTUWsYexsqrLEuibKyLZE5ut3AGinhtNaKZ_wZF0_vBYBisuBY8gJU_4hNqhfWz9iWAzks8NsytXQ_ckkA4bc8bUI/s1600/11078229_987991191222003_966388359487499999_o.jpg" height="400" width="311" /></a>
Look what came in the mail today. My Team MR8 Jersey.<br />
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
{I have to raise $3,000 more to reach my fundraising goal. Please Sponsor MY Boston Marathon. It's only 32 days away. Every $10 gets me closer. <a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/SeanAstin/bostonmarathon2015" rel="nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Boston Marathon Team MR8 Fundraising</a>}</div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
It's been a long time since I earned my way onto an athletic team. In fact, the last running team I was on, was the Crossroads High School Varsity Cross Country Squad, Santa Monica CA 1989. </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
Whew, that takes ya back. 26 Years. Give me a sec. I have to sit down on the couch to finish writing this. I don't even want to think it, but it may be a full 2 pounds for every year. Ugh. Now I'm sitting on the floor. </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
I wore a size 8 in High School. Now I wear a size 9. Then, I could run three 6 minute miles. Now, I can run six 9 minute miles (almost). Back then, I felt alone a lot. Now I don't. My High School Cross Country Team had less than 15 people. Team MR8 has 73. In my youth, I tried my very best. In that department, nothing has changed.<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
My wife and daughters admire the jersey for all that it stands for. Their question reveals a more complete story. Are you going to wear an undershirt Dad? </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
It's a strange mixture of feelings that every kid in little league must feel. Awesome, I'm a part of something so cool, tinged with a little bit of anxiety, am I worthy, will I let anyone down? Funny to be in my mid 40's and still worry that I might let someone down on a totally discretionary activity, where literally no one can be adversely affected by my performance. Well, I suppose if I got hurt and couldn't finish, people might think it was a bummer to have sponsored a runner who didn't finish. But, in the big picture, it doesn't really matter. Except that it does. It matters during training runs, to think that the Martins will know if I finish and when. My team members will know if I lag behind, which I most certainly will. Is it possible to raise people's hopes and lower their expectations? </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
Hmm. these are fun questions to ponder but there is a fundamental problem with all of them. They are all about me. When I lifted this jersey out of the box I got jitters of excitement. Then I read the handwritten card inside. Bill and Denise Richard had taken the time to thank me for becoming a part of their team. They included a great picture of Martin. The jersey in my hand carries just a little more weight now. The Boston Strong Colors, the red letters TEAM. The word Peace written by a child's hand. Wow. I am a part of a team.</div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
When a beauty pageant contestant says she wants world peace, the world kinda laughs. Probably shouldn't, but they do. Well, take a close look at my jersey. Read that single word, Peace. Not laughing now are we? </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
The violent death of a child. That single word, Peace.</div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
It's been 2 years since the bombing in Boston. The trial is bringing the pain of that day to the surface again. The ritual running of the marathon draws near again. </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
Why me? Why now? To what end? </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
The odds are extremely small that I might ever actually qualify for the Boston Marathon. But, the Race Director invited me to join Team MR8 this year. It's a dream come true to participate in this extraordinary American tradition. If I ever dared to picture myself running it, it would have been in a plain shirt. Now, the reality is that I will be in Boston in one month. I have been welcomed onto a team. I am running in honor of a boy I never met and a family I've come to admire. </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
I must earn my way onto this squad. My compassion and my earnest determination to work for Peace in this life have made me eligible. My desire to share Martin's story and willingness to ask for help has secured my spot. </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
YOUR HELP. YOUR SUPPORT. </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
Your decision to SPONSOR MY BOSTON MARATHON.</div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
YOU are the actual currency, the inspiration and the will...</div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
Thank you so much for every $1, $10, $25 and more...</div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
Thank YOU for putting this jersey on my back and pushing me every step of the way. </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
<a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.firstgiving.com%2Ffundraiser%2FSeanAstin%2Fbostonmarathon2015&h=dAQFaA6W0&enc=AZMK-t3AZdIxeusWl9mOBXBdtBYIYTCImxkQPP48k-XTGg8lt0n8WuwhgXHZyQv7jZPvcJB7lXJfekoovwS6OGbgjnBzJvR13lUgd00kUs1rQZUXa6N_wibLU1OfVrR73FhMoZPcu8Pk4fF1xiaMghmNYTzh9m9L8-2Qkm44LWG8Ow&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/SeanAstin/bostonmarathon2015</a></div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.</div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
$3,000 to reach my goal. Every $10 gets me closer.</div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
I'm going to stand up now, put on my running shoes and work for it a little bit more, a little bit harder before turning in. </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
Like a little kid, I'm keeping the jersey where I can see it when I sleep. </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
It's good to be a part of a team. </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
Much Love and Respect,<br />
Sean </div>
<div style="margin: 6px 0px;">
I <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/run3rd?source=feed_text&story_id=988007204553735" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl" style="color: #6d84b4;">#</span><span class="_58cm">Run3rd</span></a> for YOU!!!</div>
<div style="display: inline; margin: 6px 0px 0px;">
**The Logo on my hat is #Run3rd<br />
**The Shirt I'm wearing is <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FFootStomp.com%2F&h=HAQHVkNgv&enc=AZMdBopEuAgzx74OAcTb02nr_23HmlTy04OEXrrV8rI8jHrljO2iaZS4i9mh_9RH9vXWFBI6_mpnX8HWywcMyQEgr3QJ5eKfnYum2uUrMV8EvZQUowYCST-2zS-giLfvOB-wx6n7Y6vfGKeNbKOi7oIxw81XS2YkEfGPbde5I3m8zw&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">FootStomp.com</a> Wounded Warrior Support Organization, an Official Sponsor of MY Boston run.<br />
<br />
<br />
Originally <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SeanAstinPublic/photos/a.342798179074644.78267.206339316053865/987991191222003/?type=1" target="_blank">posted on Sean Astin's Facebook page</a>. </div>
Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-32016489749080629312015-03-05T14:39:00.000-05:002015-03-05T14:43:04.862-05:00Sean Astin to run Boston Marathon for Team MR8Submitted by Sean Astin <a href="http://twitter.com/seanastin" target="_blank">@SeanAstin</a><br />
<br />
Hey everyone,<br />
<br />
THANK YOU SO MUCH for visiting my <a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/SeanAstin/bostonmarathon2015" target="_blank">2015 Boston Marathon Celebration of Martin and his message of PEACE fundraising page</a>!!!!!<br />
<br />
I never could have imagined that I'd get to run Boston. In order to qualify, I'd have to shave over an hour off of my best marathon time. Eeeek! As fate would have it, Dave McGillivray, Boston Marathon Race Director, invited me to join Team MR8 and run on behalf of young Martin Richard and the amazing <a href="http://teammr8.org/" target="_blank">foundation</a> that his parents established in his honor.<br />
<br />
For those of you who know about my #Run3rd Inspirational Campaign, you can see that I'm taking the next step and actually trying to encourage charitable giving. Education, Athletics & Community make perfect sense!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBbV91P2CFcy6D7CXODWf8dMvqDJnwU2Ozqa1-7hrxfD5s0j4CBX-KIJ652L0oReFsi5G3I-Gzc85gYkbFE2cDD1vngTehoI78tLwlsFr5VD4hM2bZHeSjeBsmZ3EBaTGt78-D5Qs/s1600/yachtgirl25.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBbV91P2CFcy6D7CXODWf8dMvqDJnwU2Ozqa1-7hrxfD5s0j4CBX-KIJ652L0oReFsi5G3I-Gzc85gYkbFE2cDD1vngTehoI78tLwlsFr5VD4hM2bZHeSjeBsmZ3EBaTGt78-D5Qs/s1600/yachtgirl25.jpeg" height="320" width="187" /></a></div>
I wore the Boston jersey, with a Boston Strong Ribbon, and embroidered with #Run3rd and my wife and children's names in the days after the April 2013 events, to demonstrate my solidarity with the victims, their families, the people of Boston, the peace loving running community and our nation.<br />
<br />
With <a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/SeanAstin/bostonmarathon2015" target="_blank">this page</a>, I continue in that spirit and ask you to help me turn my hope and passion into action!!!!<br />
<br />
Donating through <a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/SeanAstin/bostonmarathon2015" target="_blank">this website</a> is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts.<br />
<br />
Again, many thanks for your support—and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to <a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/SeanAstin/bostonmarathon2015" target="_blank">donate</a> too!<br />
<br />
Much Love and Respect,<br />
Sean Astin<br />
<br />
I #Run3rd for YOU!!!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UG5-p5XK65o?rel=0" width="640"></iframe>
Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-30964506793964772432015-01-27T17:05:00.002-05:002015-04-14T15:55:35.721-04:00The Inaugural #Run3rd 5K and Our Schools<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidf6i68u1hUZgS78G3z706g1L5Rt-HIQVI7iDwdDZR0RDGIxnTD6U-xzQxfRBDVieZZktjc4x_C-Z6SQaj325xgIgW7DKB8zZqVwYkfADhHkfkkFbFWxBlpWmgDUx1N4A_8odbIGM/s1600/Star-Wars_Half_Run3rd_021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidf6i68u1hUZgS78G3z706g1L5Rt-HIQVI7iDwdDZR0RDGIxnTD6U-xzQxfRBDVieZZktjc4x_C-Z6SQaj325xgIgW7DKB8zZqVwYkfADhHkfkkFbFWxBlpWmgDUx1N4A_8odbIGM/s1600/Star-Wars_Half_Run3rd_021.jpg" height="252" width="320" /></a>Submitted by Sean Astin <a href="http://twitter.com/seanastin" target="_blank">@SeanAstin</a><br />
<br />
#Run3rd is an idea. It's a very special act of thinking about other people and their loved ones and causes. Over the years since its creation, #Run3rd has inspired people, moved people, helped create lasting friendships and been a source of good feelings and wishes for all who happen upon it. Now, it's becoming something more…<br />
<br />
On April 11th, I will be in Mesa, Arizona, running in the <a href="http://run3rd5k.com/" target="_blank">Inaugural #Run3rd 5k race</a>. Mindy and Kris Przeor (good luck pronouncing their last name!) came to me with the idea to host an actual #run3rd sanctioned 5k. There had been a successful Virtual #Run3rd 5k, hosted by devoted #Run3rd advocates. This was not the first time and hopefully won't be the last time that the idea of an actual run had been floated. After getting to know Kris and Mindy, running in a few races together and seeing how committed they are do doing something special and doing it well, I decided to let #Run3rd become a Terrestrial event. Once you watch the piece that my friend Bob Hitchcock is producing with @RunDisney you'll see why.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
The proceeds from Registration Fees, T-Shirt Sales and other related items will go to support the Mesa Schools After-School Running Program.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/KSkpOjMqmDo?rel=0" width="640"></iframe>
<br />
#Run3rd has never been about money. If you watch the <a href="http://run3rd.blogspot.com/p/press.html#angle" target="_blank">FoxNews Interview I did in Los Angeles with Steve Edwards</a>, he kept asking me what the "angle" was. I assured him that there was NO angle. Well, Steve, you were right, and now #Run3rd <i>does</i> have an angle.<br />
<br />
The primary inspiration behind the #Run3rd concept was that I didn't know how to choose just one Charity, Cause or Issue to support. Instead, I concocted a plan that would emotionally support ALL people and any and all of their wishes, dreams, hopes, struggles, fears, prayers etc...<br />
<br />
This will always be the driving force behind the #Run3rd movement. Today, I'm announcing an important new development. I've decided that Schools whose running programs are underfunded or under-supported or who have no afterschool running program yet, but wish to, are conceptually a perfect fit for the #Run3rd message. This Mesa, AZ #Run3rd5k will demonstrate that the great goodwill of such an event, the people who have shared and opened their hearts to include the world with a piece of themselves as they make dedications, can be honored anew.<br />
<br />
As members of their community learn of what's happening, they will be invited to support Students in their school system who are interested in being active and exploring the role running can play in their lives. They will be prompted, just as the parents, teachers, administrators and students will be, to make dedications of their own. They will be encouraged to take people's dedications into their hearts.<br />
<br />
When we read the <a href="https://twitter.com/search?f=realtime&q=%23run3rd" target="_blank">#Run3rd Twitter strand</a>, we glimpse into the lives of other people, many of whom have serious struggles and concerns. The simple act of reading other people's words and for a moment taking other people's existence into consideration can be a vital component to personal growth and development.<br />
<br />
This is about caring for other people. In an age when social media and technology allow us to bounce in and out of each others awareness, I like the idea that #Run3rd is both a selfish and selfless moment in the day. The feeling of wearing the #run3rd symbol as you run charges you with a sense of pride, giving, compassion and connectedness to people who you may only know from a short tweet. But, those people are real and your gesture of support is fueled with meaning.<br />
<br />
As people look to help themselves, their loved ones, or others in untold ways, from simple kindnesses to lifetimes of service, it's never too much to think about, pray for or otherwise consider the plight of our fellow humans. #Run3rd makes that gesture, by degrees, a little bit specific.<br />
<br />
When someone's child or parent is suffering, or a loved one's spouse is serving somewhere in the world, and they make a #run3rd dedication, or anyone does for that matter, they give a piece of themselves, of their pain perhaps, to the ether, trusting that people, even for a moment, are listening. They are operating from the position that strangers, at least some people of good will, are taking a moment to think about them.<br />
<br />
I always used to wonder, when people would offer to "keep me in their prayers," how long the list must get as they go along in life, as they kneel before their bed and actually says the name of each and every person who has touched their lives. Maybe for me, the list of #Run3rd dedications functions in that way. When I #Run3rd for others, I mean everyone on the list and everyone they've talked about, from its inception and for all time. It's my sense that many others feel this way too. #Run3rd is not about me. Well, it is, but no more than it is about you. I've loved seeing people wear a #run3rd sign and share its meaning with someone else when they don't know I'm watching and when we've never meant. That spirit is embodied with the #Run3rd Team Captains and with everyone who participates.<br />
<br />
So, in order to keep the mission of #run3rd global, Kris and Mindy have arranged for #run3rd5k in Mesa to offer a virtual component. They are about to share their medal design. I can't wait to run the race and have one of my very own. Everyone who participates in the Virtual Run3rd5k can expect a package from the Przeors with their own medal. We've set the goal of making sure people from all 50 States are Registered. As of this post, we have 33.<br />
<br />
Whether I see you in person on April 11th or virtually, I thank you so much for your support and participation. At the very least, if any of this has meant anything to you, why not make your own #Run3rd Dedication now.<br />
<br />
Warmly & Respectfully Yours,<br />
Sean Astin<br />
Founder #Run3rdLinda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-60747510657658011942015-01-15T11:08:00.000-05:002015-01-15T11:08:30.410-05:00Sean Astin's WDW Marathon 2015 Report<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-61LH0JWmORNHXTXM89EtTOjmiXlgvhxqQZKIp0rqn-dzeRSIRBkU6ib6bmPgvx2ljW48RE7IGcxiqtA6rjIetPfF2nCy7LNzZZ5XnWDaQWNCy6hPF8zlj73P2jpmEmwTUOR_bPc/s1600/10917335_948728565148266_2185135016679940131_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-61LH0JWmORNHXTXM89EtTOjmiXlgvhxqQZKIp0rqn-dzeRSIRBkU6ib6bmPgvx2ljW48RE7IGcxiqtA6rjIetPfF2nCy7LNzZZ5XnWDaQWNCy6hPF8zlj73P2jpmEmwTUOR_bPc/s1600/10917335_948728565148266_2185135016679940131_n.png" height="400" width="388" /></a>Submitted by Sean Astin, <a href="http://twitter.com/seanastin" target="_blank">@SeanAstin</a><br />
<br />
I love this image. It's a classic case of how I felt not quite matching the way I looked. As far as I'm concerned, at this moment I was experiencing Nirvana.<br />
<br />
Here, at mile 24, I'm running faster and with more energy, passion and fire than at any point in the previous 44 miles of road fun. I get that by the looks of it, I could be power walking, preparing to blow out candles, or just getting excited that I'm close to home and there may be a life altering letter from the sweepstakes people waiting for me. But your eyes are deceiving you. What's happening in this picture isn't what it seems, for 2 miles earlier I had experienced an earth shattering breakthrough.<br />
<br />
Without getting too technical, I'd elected to do <a href="http://www.jeffgalloway.com/training/run-walk/" target="_blank">Jeff Galloway's run/walk/run</a> method for this race, due to my previous day's calf strain. The green KT tape on my leg did its job well though and the injury was a total non-factor. Praise! Oh, due to a flap flap flapping piece, I pulled off the 3 stripes on my right leg around half way. Nothing like ripping the hair down the length of your leg to remind you what kind of pain you can endure on a journey like this. Anyhow, I got to the 13 mile marker comfortably, at roughly the same pace as the previous day's 1/2 Marathon.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
As happens in most of my Marathon runs (9 total as of today), the dog day miles 15-20 were fine, legs and trunk feeling pretty laden. I was in uncharted territory with this walk/run strategy. Because I slowed my gate every three minutes, I had the opportunity to meet with dozens and dozens of fellow runners, taking selfies and swapping stories. Usually, I'm in a run flow that doesn't lend to easy patter. At this point though, I feel as though I'm doing a serious public service. Folks yell, "hey Rudy" or "SEAN ASTIN" or even the inspirational phrase I coined "run3rd" (if I'm being honest, they yell other stuff too, Encino Man & 50 First Dates are crowd pleasers; occasionally a spectator or runner will dig deeper into the catalogue), but hands down the most exuberant cry I hear along the route is "GOONIES NEVER SAY DIE!" So as not to break stride I have some classic replies, everyone is brother or man to me at that point: knock 'em dead, go get em, yeah baby, are a few of the standards. Finish strong is a welcome change of pace, I get to start using that after mile 18. Anyhow, the public service is that I can clearly perceive a thought in these folks. Generous, excited, happy and fun are they. After a few steps they realize, I'm about to destroy Rudy in this race. Take care man, good luck, stay strong—that's what I hear when they pull away, never to be seen again, until we meet in the parking lot three hours later and pose for more snaps.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXOSKXYW02x7vRQgv7sPz9Mj2Whhc6Wy_nph2IXodNOyYqQS3E8WiWj1PAb9JAbjb-Yjdew5oJfR6Zd9OWhSvvwJTzsl-W-rtuNfsQGtgjDhMJ5auXJO8R-oagw4GqqJTfq8YFl7s/s1600/10689657_10204730835566287_1717752221374883691_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXOSKXYW02x7vRQgv7sPz9Mj2Whhc6Wy_nph2IXodNOyYqQS3E8WiWj1PAb9JAbjb-Yjdew5oJfR6Zd9OWhSvvwJTzsl-W-rtuNfsQGtgjDhMJ5auXJO8R-oagw4GqqJTfq8YFl7s/s1600/10689657_10204730835566287_1717752221374883691_n.jpg" height="400" width="291" /></a></div>
Ok, so the breakthrough. At mile 20 I turned off the run/walk feature of my Garmin Connect. All that means is that the thing beeps and vibrates when you set it to. I had been running for 3 minutes and walking for 1 minute. I glanced at the clock and realized I wouldn't get in under 5 hours if I kept that pattern. Five of my eight previous Marathons had a "4" in front. So, I just shut the thing off and figured I'd try and gut it out straight. Three quarters of a mile and my body just slowed to a walk on its own. This was a much longer single stretch of running than the 3:1s had been for 4 hours, but the sense of disappointment and foreboding couldn't be helped.<br />
<br />
Nothing much interesting happened for the next two miles, but then something did. I'd been hearing people talk about doing the whole enchilada in 30/30 intervals. Run fast for 30 seconds. Walk for 30 seconds. The tedium of this tactic seemed too much to consider for myself. Unless… I flipped back on the Run/Walk and set the dials to 30/30.<br />
<br />
Unbelievable. I skyrocketed out of my shoes. I do have a natural fast twitch thing that has seemed impressive a couple of times in my life. Not to anyone else, but I think, hmm, I'm kinda quick, just only over short distances. Guess what, 30 seconds is not too long to hang on for in a dead sprint. My conditioning (970 Miles in 2014 with two Full Marathons within the last three Months) was sufficient to have me recovered before the next 30 second interval hit. I flew. I'm not kidding I felt like a jalopy just got turned into a Leer Jet. I was passing people so fast, it looked like they were racing in reverse. I could feel the topography of the Disney World bumps and turns like the spoilers on an Indy car. Then I'd walk for 30 seconds. The more I realized that I was going to be able to finish the race with this sexy, take a look at me now, phenomenon in place, the more giddy I became. Endorphins burst like fireworks, I felt on top of the world. At the start of each interval I'd think, can I do this? Can I possibly run any faster? It was like being chased by the police or trying to make a ferry when your mom is sick at home. It must have looked bizarre to the crowd. Once I thought, ooh, don't pull a hammy like you did in Chicago, but then the beast within me was like, dude, shut up, we are in the zone, go faster.<br />
<br />
Everyone who's been at a finish line knows that even if they were crawling and puking for the last 20 miles, the last 100 yards most often looks like the starting line of the Olympic Hundred Yard Dash. Whatever energy people were conserving or didn't realize they had, releases, and with big painful smiles they sprint home.<br />
<br />
But, my thing today was different. At least, it is different from anything I've ever experienced in over five thousand miles of long distance running. Four miles is no joke. I kept this light speed 30 second interval thing up for 4 whole miles. It sounds gross, but I was sweating differently. I'd been running for over 4 hours and had sweat a ton, but now it was pure athletic sweat, not bullish endurance sweat. For some medical or scientific reason that I'll eventually figure out, I had within my body, the strength, stamina, intensity and power to, to, to… I don't even know the right word, explode, dominate, I don't know…<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJiVQSf7iRQ85iq7HXiR-aAEb6hycYAz50UU6MgNxslNtpEmwYrI3CydzzXTbw58NT9X__hyz3hATcYIwU8q2MmKS61P8es1ojTAWsrtqVWZHkGvAFMl7HTTpGJqUz4455q9kOjk/s1600/tumblr_ni3g7cS7aY1qes56io1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJiVQSf7iRQ85iq7HXiR-aAEb6hycYAz50UU6MgNxslNtpEmwYrI3CydzzXTbw58NT9X__hyz3hATcYIwU8q2MmKS61P8es1ojTAWsrtqVWZHkGvAFMl7HTTpGJqUz4455q9kOjk/s1600/tumblr_ni3g7cS7aY1qes56io1_1280.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
It was euphoric. Not only didn't my legs hurt, they felt great. I've never crossed the finish line of a Marathon (have I mentioned that as of today it's 9) like this. I could have run another 10k without even thinking about it. My legs weren't tired, they were just getting warmed up.<br />
<br />
My finish time 4:55:21.<br />
<br />
During that Disney Magical 4.2 miles, I took off (I believe) almost 2 minutes per mile from the previous miles pace, or something close.<br />
<br />
I'm forever changed as a runner. I don't know how, but I can never go back.<br />
<br />
As for that picture. I think it was 1 second into the start of the next 30 second sprint. Total Spaz? Of course. But the picture tells me a different story. I see the bliss of a 43 year old man, who just realized, he has a whole lot more gas in the tank than he could ever have imagined. I see myself. And it's making me smile.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVof1DuoC_OncMNUuVfDHrtGxsqGZQ7oc7jp4CAr77zqFv4cEBEyb8BqmbpwcnW_evePeEqo7qgJXQcbKR9ceKo4PMprEThOH_BfsdDblK3uXbvNOEsJyPJepuZHl34-CczFiclA/s1600/B7F6WNDCEAAUCl2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVof1DuoC_OncMNUuVfDHrtGxsqGZQ7oc7jp4CAr77zqFv4cEBEyb8BqmbpwcnW_evePeEqo7qgJXQcbKR9ceKo4PMprEThOH_BfsdDblK3uXbvNOEsJyPJepuZHl34-CczFiclA/s1600/B7F6WNDCEAAUCl2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-89787342353806353092015-01-07T10:54:00.000-05:002015-01-07T10:54:33.373-05:00Walt Disney World Marathon 2015 by Sean Astin<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpfJ-SooK28KPHrQiMv024LKSy7JGtLCGZ0d2u7lQbAEE-SqxQFktlrskBuGns3Bmbvrxhc6-tgOVx9n6rURzn56rn0NrY0h3gA9pxR87b0hInVS-Mu4LbdRip-T9FJGsQ9V82Ms/s1600/995072_944788408875615_2972111571974785416_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpfJ-SooK28KPHrQiMv024LKSy7JGtLCGZ0d2u7lQbAEE-SqxQFktlrskBuGns3Bmbvrxhc6-tgOVx9n6rURzn56rn0NrY0h3gA9pxR87b0hInVS-Mu4LbdRip-T9FJGsQ9V82Ms/s1600/995072_944788408875615_2972111571974785416_n.jpg" height="400" width="303" /></a>Submitted by Sean Astin, <a href="http://twitter.com/seanastin" target="_blank">@SeanAstin</a><br />
<br />
Walt Disney World Marathon 2015<br />
The Dopey Challenge<br />
48.6 Miles in 4 Days<br />
(5k, 10k, 1/2 Marathon & Full Marathon)<br />
<br />
I’m 43 years old for one more month and my passion for running has morphed into a full blown obsession.<br />
<br />
In 2013, I ran 3 full Marathons. Last year I did 2. Hmm, what craziness might I get up to this year? I hope The Dopey Challenge sets the tone. Crazy? Maybe. But, as my carbon based body proceeds along its course, I have a ticket to ride, paid for with a lifetime of long distance running. The Dopey Challenge? Bring it...<br />
<br />
First, I love Running in "Disney" events. In fact, I'm a regular, having completed 6 RunDisney ½ Marathons, with 2 Dumbo Double Dares (10k & 1/2 in the same weekend) & the prized Coast to Coast Medal (A Disneyland, CA & Disney World, FL 1/2 Marathon in the same calendar year).<br />
<br />
The time has come for me to return to the big Park in Florida. Walt Disney World, I shall tackle the biggest event your RunDisney has to offer.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Sunday, I attempt to complete my 9th Full Marathon (LA, San Francisco, Chicago and in the fall of 2014, The Marine Corps & The Rock n’ Roll Vegas). I'm no stranger to the long run, but this challenge is different. The Dopey is, well, MORE.<br />
<br />
Two days ago I was pretty freaked out thinking about it. Now, sitting on the plane I keep flexing my calf. It doesn't hurt. Yet. It will. I've been thinking about the Expo. I have the opportunity to share my thoughts and insights about running with participants every day of the EXPO. My experience is a warm blanket that I wrap around me. I think I'll share what I've been feeling the last couple of days. Having anxiety or "Nerves" looks different now, at my age, with the thousands of miles I've logged on the road. I don't have butterflies in my stomach. I have crows flying around. My stomach isn't flittering, rather my shoulders settle deep as I consider how my past might help predict the future. When there is perceptible concern, I literally have a glimmer in my eye and I smirk at the doubt in myself. I've had it before and conquered it. The gentle wave of questioning gives way to a high tide of confidence. I've been here before so many times. These are the minutes that will eventually seem so silly to have spent worrying once in the corral at the start.<br />
<br />
I can’t remember the exact year of my first 10k. I was 14 I think, certainly too young to be nervous. It was a glorious 48min 27sec's, and the very first time I'd ever run that far. Then there's the day I made varsity on my High School Cross Country squad (the slowest on the team). I felt the strongest I’d ever been. Yet, I bonked on mile two and practically crawled the rest of the race. I’ve often said that the key to managing anxiety heading into an event is to remember your training and that the mind is an incredibly powerful tool.<br />
<br />
Was I breathing hard just walking down the jetway of the plane?<br />
<br />
Nah.<br />
<br />
It comes down to this.<br />
<br />
I want to push my body and my mind. I want to test my spirit. I want to see what's possible. Mostly, I'm looking to go beyond the limits placed on me, mostly by custom. I’ve set many lofty goals and failed at many. Well, failed so far. I am actually not freaked out about this coming behemoth of a task. I'm totally stoked. Flex leg, deep breath in my airplane seat. It'll probably hold up.<br />
<br />
I’m 43 years old for one more month and my passion for running is a full blown obsession.<br />
<br />
Walt Disney World Marathon 2015<br />
The Dopey Challenge -- 48.6 Miles in 4 DaysLinda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-7225582879517210892014-11-14T16:00:00.001-05:002014-11-14T16:06:27.641-05:00Marine Corps Marathon #Run3rd Dedication Poster<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgaXJSe6jXwXDsZ2ZFO6SdjDM_zRUqPlX9VjwOPpAhUAiCILS6I2DfEF76IlMIW3AGhcYH9FCjF4Al__xJ3f-8Y0TNX8pMYxJERsdp4ry1b24CbWO8dfYAejtD7fJMOoOTK6e3i4/s1600/Sean+Poster+rev2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgaXJSe6jXwXDsZ2ZFO6SdjDM_zRUqPlX9VjwOPpAhUAiCILS6I2DfEF76IlMIW3AGhcYH9FCjF4Al__xJ3f-8Y0TNX8pMYxJERsdp4ry1b24CbWO8dfYAejtD7fJMOoOTK6e3i4/s1600/Sean+Poster+rev2.jpg" height="522" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By Matt Killinder. Open in new window to enlarge and read dedications.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Submitted by Matt Killinder <a href="http://twitter.com/mkillinder" target="_blank">@MKillinder</a><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<b><i>Run3rd.</i></b> When I first heard about its true meaning, it struck me to the heart. When I was growing up, Sean Astin was someone I looked up to. When he told me about #Run3rd at the Louisville Wizard Con, and shared with me that he was going to run the Chocolate 5K in Downtown Louisville, I knew I had to run too, thinking and feeling those same three dedications he runs for. <br />
<br />
The #run3rd is like a prayer. As you run for yourself you are believing that the training will pay off for a great run, that your joints and muscles will stay strong, and so forth. When you are running for your family, you look towards them for strength, and hope the best for their well-being and safety. Finally, running for others. Friends or strangers alike may say to you say, “My uncle just got cancer” or “I need to pass this final exam.” It’s in those times where we always hope for the best for people. It’s a subconscious prayer letting people know your thoughts are with them, and at the same time it’s a driving force that pushes you through the run.<br />
<br />
Before Sean ran the Marine Corps Marathon, he asked people for dedications. Friends, family and strangers sent dedications via Twitter and Facebook using “#Run3rd” to Sean, and he had them compiled onto one sheet of paper. He then took that piece of paper and ran with it in his pocket during Marine Corps Marathon. It was in that moment, I felt Sean deserved something for his dedication to run for himself, his family and us. I created this poster for him as a memory to our soldiers and all the people he was running for. In this picture, the silent prayer of #Run3rd is portrayed.<br />
<br />
“I run first for me, I run second for my family, and third I run for you…” —Sean Astin<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-16701506257038512742014-11-01T16:36:00.000-04:002014-11-14T16:02:24.119-05:00Sean Astin's Marine Corps Marathon Race Report<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZH4RW-rvk7NhNWe0JdYvAQoMpsyuJcAhhJCrulrWQ72Wr66oKJ9MzwvNbjNm_hv_ch8ja2mMNciEhiYqYwdrPo36gaDzgpQ_1AKcqLu1VR9CY24IMGDbu5S_ttzDYY5SDX2kzfo/s1600/IMG_4050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZH4RW-rvk7NhNWe0JdYvAQoMpsyuJcAhhJCrulrWQ72Wr66oKJ9MzwvNbjNm_hv_ch8ja2mMNciEhiYqYwdrPo36gaDzgpQ_1AKcqLu1VR9CY24IMGDbu5S_ttzDYY5SDX2kzfo/s1600/IMG_4050.JPG" height="313" width="400" /></a><b>Submitted by Sean Astin <a href="http://twitter.com/" target="_blank">@SeanAstin</a></b><br />
October 26, 2014<br />
<br />
<br />
Gunnery Sergeant Christopher Reese hung the #USMC “Eagle Globe & Anchor” Marine Corps Marathon Medal around my neck. It was a great day running 26.2 miles through our Nation's Capital. My official finish time is: 4:29:11.<br />
<br />
It's way slower than I trained for, but the Sun & Wind needed to show me who was boss. I was the Official Starter for the race, an incredible honor.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW8cbHrHto8I7GHqOnKwoQESjvtuAOKZkP9yWEixp-tAUnaHxSgAtP3_5PwrbSjw3ka5J4u7nnzKs4Yw_mhfzzHipOM2ofJw5sAqwvTfe6rkwgo_-b4UB0bsf_LGEwlZrseZgS8Zs/s1600/IMG_4068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW8cbHrHto8I7GHqOnKwoQESjvtuAOKZkP9yWEixp-tAUnaHxSgAtP3_5PwrbSjw3ka5J4u7nnzKs4Yw_mhfzzHipOM2ofJw5sAqwvTfe6rkwgo_-b4UB0bsf_LGEwlZrseZgS8Zs/s1600/IMG_4068.JPG" height="200" width="164" /></a>The shirt I wore was given to me the day before by an Army Green Beret, Travis Myers. We were visiting at the RunDisney booth during the Marathon Expo. When I mentioned that I had read in the program about his group, he literally pulled the shirt off of his back and handed it to me. It's called Wear Blue: Run to Remember. Halfway through mile 12 the Wear Blue team came into focus. On the left side of the street, there were signs, like a realtor would use, planted in the grass. On the cardboard signs were the faces and names of the fallen. Sometimes the pictures had the Marine's or Soldier's children in their arms, or their families, or their pets.<br />
<br />
They just kept coming, one after another after another after another. It went from beautiful, to poignant, to sorrowful, to deeply moving. At the end of the endless row of portable memorials, a gorgeous woman, Lisa Hallett, looking fitter than all of the runners jumped onto the "track" to jog a ways. She explained that her husband had died overseas and that she had three children, the youngest of whom he had never met. She kept thanking me for wearing blue and supporting the service members.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
It's hard be incredulous at the halfway mark of a marathon when conditions are starting to turn, but I tried to muster some reciprocal thought. I said that it's hard for people to remember when talking about politics or international affairs and what we should do or shouldn't do, it's hard to remember that it's people, real people who wind up implementing the decisions made. I said that it was the least that we (speaking on behalf of our citizenry) should do, that "we" should acknowledge with some regularity the sacrifices that those people and their families make. And then she said something that really hit me.<br />
<br />
Just before peeling off that "anyway, we make choices, and you make choices and it means a lot to us (she and a host of others who lost loved ones in battle did this living memorial to keep sane) that you do what you do." And as she faded to the side she called out, "keep making those choices." <a href="http://wearblueruntoremember.org/" target="_blank">http://wearblueruntoremember.org/</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEght9PYxuGWi1eNlcKbyvaNKmWsqRWUUzQA4POHEnRme2SX0f5V0FNtWW3U9qFC-1oDRNGttsEGsapHEuz2sz6_MxPjEHgUbl3BQwbQD-XarwgBixqi0kvfEuOXnDucij6N_-eciH8/s1600/10484950_10152850540331840_3507322636028357269_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEght9PYxuGWi1eNlcKbyvaNKmWsqRWUUzQA4POHEnRme2SX0f5V0FNtWW3U9qFC-1oDRNGttsEGsapHEuz2sz6_MxPjEHgUbl3BQwbQD-XarwgBixqi0kvfEuOXnDucij6N_-eciH8/s1600/10484950_10152850540331840_3507322636028357269_n.jpg" height="572" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The friend I was running with, Jonathan needed to throttle back at that point to protect an injury. I put in my music, tilted my head back and dropped the hammer. That lasted for 5 miles after which, I was forced to remember that I am a small in the face of nature and that this was an actual big kid marathon. When my legs felt fragile, I thought of the 500+ dedications (#Run3rd Dreams, Hopes, Wishes) that I carried in my pocket, of the Prayers and Stories of so many people and the outpouring of love they shared with me and the world, or the FB & Twitter spheres which is a start in that direction anyway. I kept remembering the wheel chair riders and the wounded warriors. My buddy Todd's social network, matching up returning vets with sports and activities they love really works (<a href="http://footstomp.com/" target="_blank">http://footstomp.com/</a>). As for me, I never had to walk, which I was grateful for and consider a blessing and an accomplishment.<br />
<br />
There's a thing in the Marine Corps Marathon called, "Beat the Bridge." I think it's the 14th street bridge (or something) that you reach at mile 20. Apparently, if you don't meet the time requirement, they "sweep" you, meaning, they open the road to the traffic and the runners left behind are picked up in tears and shuttles. Well, I reached the bridge with great gobs of time to spare, hours in fact. But, after all of the hoopla, no one had a sign that said, this is the bridge, or hey you beat it... And then it just kept going. It wasn't just one bridge, it was a succession of bridges that never seemed to end. In fact, as I type this, I'm looking around to see if per chance I'm still on the darned thing. The sun beat down hard on that endless mile. The bridge was beating me and my comrades to the left and right. Good news, a big wind kicked up, cooling things off a bit. The good, maybe not as much, news, the big wind kicked up. Sure, as we had skirted Capital hill, the wind was at our backs, so it seemed like a good idea. But, that was way back there and now I'm traversing the Potomac river and thinking this is what George Washington dreaded when planning his crossing.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88VVzLApn3NHeFWvfbIIy3FNCxQyMoHEAqhyHnCv0rkwiYtwtlsZRQkAk6fPnIIE9g-gkWlPfoI-mwbYVvwX-rVQ4damC6KDmj-rXPBHR_zV8QMO78pRfsmPx5COvZrDINIM-zaM/s1600/10410733_10152850557566840_7605423605406699216_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88VVzLApn3NHeFWvfbIIy3FNCxQyMoHEAqhyHnCv0rkwiYtwtlsZRQkAk6fPnIIE9g-gkWlPfoI-mwbYVvwX-rVQ4damC6KDmj-rXPBHR_zV8QMO78pRfsmPx5COvZrDINIM-zaM/s1600/10410733_10152850557566840_7605423605406699216_n.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a>Through the dog day miles, 22 through 25, winding our way through Crystal City and the Pentagon, the ole gams were feeling like cracked pottery, but if I felt a sting in my legs, I smiled, I remembered, I reminded myself, that I wanted this, that I trained for this, that it would be over in a blink, and most importantly that I liked the pain. Most people couldn't handle this pain, I'd brag to myself, but I crave it. That thought always took the edge off and I could trundle on a bit further. My heart was strong (ya know) but I wisely didn't strain the legs, no reason to tempt the marathon gods. I passed more than a few folks whose ambition may have gotten the better of them.<br />
<br />
Then, for the last two miles, there was this guy who looked like a yeti. I kept thinking, this dude, this teen-wolf, is drafting off of me. This was like a snail drafting off of a turtle at this point, but if I sped up, there he was, if I slowed down, there he was. I stopped for a second just to let him get ahead. I started back up and then he stopped. Naturally, I passed him, and then as if by design, he would appear two feet beside me, huffing and puffing with a thought bubble above his head that read, "boy are we tired, boy did we run out of steam, boy is it going to be impossible to accelerate these last few miles, at least I'm rolling next to this poor slob, I think I'll be his side-car." It was like something out of a movie. I wanted no part of his Sasquatch heaving and sweating and panting. It was comical. I kept thinking, I love all people, why not love this barnacle, leech, drag on my hull. This was the least generous moment I've had as a runner and I tried to clear my head. At 25.5 I made my move. Out of the corner of my eye I saw him stop. At last, I thought (ashamed then and now at my pettiness), I'm rid of the clingy, abominable albatross. Truth be told, I have no idea if the gent dropped out of the race or beat me by 3 minutes. Regardless, I will always remember my sleestak hanger-on. He held a mirror up to my self righteous face and I didn't like what I saw. Thank you my Neanderthal Alter Ego, my Simian talisman, farewell.<br />
<br />
There is much more to share. I'm really proud of what I got to say right before the start to the 20,000+ people ready to run. I woke up at 3:30am, the words and ideas had to be put on paper. Throughout the race, people, always as they passed me, kept saying thank you very much. They kept saying how much my words meant to them. I know that pride goeth before the fall, but it means so much to ME, to have the opportunity to address any group, but these race participants, these marines and coast guard members, these volunteers and spectators, it felt so moving and important. If you have never participated in an organized running event, I urge you to. The feeling before the start is electric.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN0MD6ouLn-AewFr9gSFhXkGKN7xd0km8KwD7v5P2uEn8aC6-5FUkB7Jt9_EyrVatTBSinHDDPxEzhAvi5L_U8-euZwiCuHEQt7_QtdDdEHbi9OdgVcraTiM6PjgKfDdFl9jDibQ/s1600/15594453316_76f254bd23_k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN0MD6ouLn-AewFr9gSFhXkGKN7xd0km8KwD7v5P2uEn8aC6-5FUkB7Jt9_EyrVatTBSinHDDPxEzhAvi5L_U8-euZwiCuHEQt7_QtdDdEHbi9OdgVcraTiM6PjgKfDdFl9jDibQ/s1600/15594453316_76f254bd23_k.jpg" height="235" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medal of Honor Recipient Corporal Kyle Carpenter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today, two Ospree war machines, 12 jumpers (sky-divers) with massive flags, my new friend, Medal of Honor Recipient Corporal Kyle Carpenter, who jumped on a grenade to protect his friend, this morning parachuted in and then ran his 1st Marathon. 20,000 fellow runners, 10's and 10's of thousands of people cheering the runners on, beautiful fall colors, hot sun, gusting wind, monuments, memorials, bridges, and tons of Marines handing out water... Getting to address this noble and worthy group, gave me a deepening sense of purpose. So, USMC Marathon folks (Tami that's you), thank you for having me. Thank you for giving me an experience for a lifetime.<br />
<br />
Marine's are trained to be war fighters. Today, they were peacemakers. Today, they turned their attention from the art of combat to the science of community outreach. Their leadership and hospitality is second to none. Marines, Thank you for your time, Thank you for your support and most importantly, Thank you for your service.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD5NZX4BhxdJ-gpsNtaCv45N5FGBBCOxY6gai40I6zAN3WL5jympCu5zSdzeo9FV3jE3rZIr3fjcLXO80N8sdvxDxBgy2G-mdN9Y7Ej-EXsmKA6aNVHjxm_oijVrS9aNEqZdOYT34/s1600/15016431174_7ec20dfb91_k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD5NZX4BhxdJ-gpsNtaCv45N5FGBBCOxY6gai40I6zAN3WL5jympCu5zSdzeo9FV3jE3rZIr3fjcLXO80N8sdvxDxBgy2G-mdN9Y7Ej-EXsmKA6aNVHjxm_oijVrS9aNEqZdOYT34/s1600/15016431174_7ec20dfb91_k.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39969456542158390.post-35857091869129838142014-10-16T21:44:00.000-04:002014-11-01T15:24:55.506-04:00Why I #Run3rd<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7eRvwnKmogzfur6AGu_GKwytwUeK_AyGLOrx7ozUI2180xzUUkAzqQMKWkKg5XO1RckIbB10qnjS-KjxSPtPJvvVo48iPg0Muar6SuvboPNyA741eoFwIKn-AS02UV3aNyruPGuQ/s1600/10644429_898921393462317_2205096760487330816_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7eRvwnKmogzfur6AGu_GKwytwUeK_AyGLOrx7ozUI2180xzUUkAzqQMKWkKg5XO1RckIbB10qnjS-KjxSPtPJvvVo48iPg0Muar6SuvboPNyA741eoFwIKn-AS02UV3aNyruPGuQ/s1600/10644429_898921393462317_2205096760487330816_o.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In January 2012, I chose to start thinking about other people. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; min-height: 16px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">It was a revelation for me. I’ve always cared about my fellow man, but this time I made a big temporal decision. Truth be told, this was a spiritual moment for me; I would open up my life as a long distance runner to everyone. Running had been my hobby, my sport, my passion and my salvation long enough. It was time to share. It was time to make it about other people. It was time to make a pronouncement that my life, my joy, my pain—everything about me that is summed up with running—had to be about something bigger. It was time to dig deep and decide: what do I care about enough to announce to God, the World and Everyone that I would Dedicate my LA Marathon Race to. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; min-height: 16px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv4OVMWmjXpFfM-RO9mHEZOLszf_5rJPTddTtX_S8OQThnPuyHNwEE4aCqJOoym-JWGnJmYxuuJFsAUgPwe-B61OexhmR3jkY4vxn1jOH1ORUdlQHdg_s8ODs7pjPy5SFWYjV8hdI/s1600/737345_876236022390768_443952464538783380_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv4OVMWmjXpFfM-RO9mHEZOLszf_5rJPTddTtX_S8OQThnPuyHNwEE4aCqJOoym-JWGnJmYxuuJFsAUgPwe-B61OexhmR3jkY4vxn1jOH1ORUdlQHdg_s8ODs7pjPy5SFWYjV8hdI/s1600/737345_876236022390768_443952464538783380_o.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">It came down to this: First, I had to place myself at the top of the list. It starts with me, and that matters. That is natural law. But, who would I die for, who means everything to me? My wife and children, without question, I chose them. But, my mission wasn’t over. Something was missing. Beyond myself, beyond my precious loved ones, who else could I stand up for? Who should I step out and without any doubt, fear or hesitation, exalt? </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; min-height: 16px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The answer came to me. In fact, it came through me. Who is that important to me? </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; min-height: 16px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">You. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; min-height: 16px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">My challenge, is to make you understand, make you trust that it's possible. One person can, yes in fact they MUST be able to hear about a life, and care enough to dedicate a piece of their heart, literally pumping and sweaty, gritty and determined, and offer a gift of life-giving circulation to that stranger's hopes, thoughts, prayers and feelings. There are many ways to love. This is one of mine. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; min-height: 16px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Therefore in January 2012 I wrote the <a href="http://run3rd.blogspot.com/p/real-mission-statement.html" target="_blank">Run3rd mission statement</a>. It is alive and the journey of the idea has grown wings. Today, I am asking you and everyone you know and everyone you don't to make Dedications of your own. In the spirit of unity, phrase them like this: #Run3rd for {your dedication}. I will #run3rd for all of them. Anyone who wears the symbol #run3rd will be honoring all of these Dedications. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; min-height: 16px;">
<br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">And finally, like it or not, I will #run3rd for You.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
—Sean Astin, October 16, 2014</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ9fMtbgeWqqbKJ9w2qIp5tIXkhwHNO2PWafxZTxSl5ffpFShXD_KHO34WqPQ-gD95nu3ldeqYrzzif0b-RyeXZy9nVw8PBtS4B5eQaF6KKzbGj3ajdHzQa372D_4AALjTnEHz0Co/s1600/MarathonStartLine.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ9fMtbgeWqqbKJ9w2qIp5tIXkhwHNO2PWafxZTxSl5ffpFShXD_KHO34WqPQ-gD95nu3ldeqYrzzif0b-RyeXZy9nVw8PBtS4B5eQaF6KKzbGj3ajdHzQa372D_4AALjTnEHz0Co/s1600/MarathonStartLine.gif" height="166" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br />
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
Linda of Notehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04980652133919459881noreply@blogger.com0