The Windy City

10 Miles

     Yesterday, winds were estimated at up to 60 mph along Lake Michigan in Chicago.  This afternoon, I was able to go out for a run along the lake after the winds calmed down.  Reports of the Lakefront Trail being closed between Ohio St. and North Ave. forced me to head south.  45 degrees, 15-25 mph winds, and slight drizzling kept my run interesting and challenging.  When passing Museum Campus, I saw at least two boats wrecked in the water near the aquarium, part of the aftermath of yesterday's weather.  All I can say is, if it was my boat that sank, I'd cry.

     Good running everyone!

Gear Geek: The Homage in Columbus, OH

     If you happen to find yourself in Columbus, Ohio, I recommend stopping by a small shop called Homage.  In their own words, "Homage turns back the clock with shout outs to eclectic moments and personalities in sports, music, politics and popular culture."  They do this through a wide selection of t-shirts, hoodies, bottoms, and accessories.  Though located firmly in Buckeye territory in the popular Short North area, Homage has products giving props to many sports, cities and colleges.  I was able to pick up a sweet Baylor University t-shirt for myself and a University of Houston shirt for my brother-in-law.  For other U of H fans, there's a prize PHI SLAMA JAMA shirt still available on sale but in limited sizes.  And for Chicagoans, there's a nice shirt that reads, "CHICAGO AIN'T NO SISSY TOWN."  If you browse their website, product details include fascinating stories behind many of their t-shirts.  FYI, t-shirts are 50% polyester, 25% cotton, and 25% rayon and run a little small.  It's a vintage fit, so you may want to consider ordering a size up if you prefer a looser fit.  Hoodies and raglan shirts felt true to size.  The material of my t-shirts and hoodies feels great!  In fact, the hoodie is the softest I've ever had!  If you do happen to make it to the shop, pick up a complementary Coke with your purchase from their old school bottle machine.  Coke definitely taste better from a glass bottle!  Below are a few goods I picked up from my visit.  Cheers to A FINANCIAL STATEMENT of THE CLASS ROOM for recommending Homage!

WWW.HOMAGE.COM

Getting Back to Business

Night Run

     Injury, sickness, weather, work -- any one of these can ruin training.  Even a few days away from the run makes it hard to get back into a routine.  Though I've been able to get in a few runs after being sick, I just don't feel the same drive to get out and run.  Before, I was starting to get use to waking up at 5 A.M.  Some mornings, I could  even wake up without my alarm.  Now, getting up at 6:30 A.M. sucks.  What keeps you from running?  Whatever it may be, take your time getting out there.  Don't try to do too much too soon after being sick or injured.  You'll get back into rhythm again. I hope I do soon.  Though it's 80 degrees again here in Chicago, I know winter is just around the bend, and training for a marathon won't always be favorable in winter months.  

     The Chicago Marathon is this weekend and though I won't be running, I'll be checking out the expo.  Tonight, Niketown Chicago will have something special for Run Club as a jump-off for the weekend events.  Expect a good party.  Also, Olympian long distance runner Ryan Hall will be at the expo signing autographs and running in Sunday's marathon.  For more information on events this weekend, go to www.chicagomarathon.com.  Good luck to all the runners on Sunday, and good running to everyone.

     

Gear Geek: Nike Chicago Marathon T-Shirts

Available at Niketown Chicago