Gary Truce 5K Gone for Good?

I looked through the 2010 reunion schedule, and despite promies from Coach Acuff that the Gary Truce 5K would return, I saw no signs of it. They still continue to have a 5K Kristen Faust memorial run, which is fine for those that knew Kristen, but apparently, the alumni association doesnt' seem to understand the impact that Gary Truce has had on the university over the years.

I think I remember from last year, that alumni may be invited to run in one of the actual home cross country races (if there are any), but then we would be way at the back of the pack, looking a little foolish finishing several minutes behind the main pack, especially if there were only a handful of us. I wish they would bring back the Gary Truce!

Tennis, Running, and Snorkeling Update

As I suspected, while in Key Largo for a week (July 3 to 10), I only ran 2 times, about 3 miles each time, in fairly intense heat and humidity, although one run was cloudy and cooler than usual. However, I played tennis a number of times while there, and it seemed to be a good workout. I also snorkeled almost every day. Now, I'm not sure how snorkeling translates into a workout, but my style of snorkeling is to frequently go underwater for 10 to 20 seconds at a time. So, in a typical one or even 2-hour snorkeling outing, I am underwater holding my breath many times. Each time when I surfaced, especially on the deeper dives (upwards of 15 to 20 feet down), I would be breathing heavily and heartbeat was elevated. Could this potentially have a similar effect to a speed workout, or is it just plain tiring, and maybe even detrimental. Anyway, although I ate out every night, I didn't really gain weight, and felt tired out each night, so I think I was getting some exercise in. I also did more than the usual number of pushups and crunches while on vacation.

Upon my return, I have only run twice so far (about 4.1 miles each time 8:20 to 8:30/mile pace), played tennis twice, and lifted weights once. I should be running tonight and hopefully tomorrow.

On the tennis front, I played my 4.0 buddy again last night. Unfortunately, he won 6-3, 6-4. I was actually down 5-0 in the 2nd set, battled back to 5-4, but then caved and lost 6-4. I think my serve has picked up a little speed and consistency. I think I only had about 5 double faults (not bad for me), and my 2nd serve, although slower than the first, wasn't too bad, and he didn't hit many winners at all on my 2nd serve. I still don't have a true kick serve. This may take some work and even a lesson. My buddy took a private lesson from a pro just to start getting the hang of a kick serve. He didn't even try it in the match last night. Apparently, although seemingly routine, a good kick serve takes a lot of work.

That's it for now. No plans for time trials for now. Just enjoying summer in Buffalo (and Key Largo), playing tennis, and running as time permits.

Mark