Author: Saab

  • Old School not the best, but the best choice…

    12 descended upon Mary to pound out varying degrees of miles.  This is more or less what transpired (probably less)…

    Having spotted a late night text from Lockjaw stating he was under heavy sedation from Nyquil, YHC leaped from his Sir Harington and raced to MM to ensure the route was secured.  Having agonized at great length (< 1 minute), the state of the PAX (ankle injuries, pending renal deliveries, flu) drove the decision to choose the proverbial Old School route.  (This involves up and down routes along Grove of varying lengths….I’m sure there’s a TYA back blast out there that describes this route in more detail…feel free to read it.)

    NMS:  Nostalgia aside, Old School has never been a favorite of YHC for the simple reason that one has to pass the starting point and keep going.  Compounded by the fact that I was low on energy and enthusiasm, it would have been too easy to just stop at MM during the first pass had Sippy not been holding the bar so high – as he is often prone to do.

    Other observations and useless thoughts:

    • Apparently it is possible to run either while expecting, or while dealing with a severe ankle injury.  Highly impressive effort on the part of both those gents (you know who you are)
    • A little trash talk will get even the most fatigued and miserable PAX moving…thanks Honey Do for making me step it up.
    • Tomato in a ski hat with a large pom-pom, just sayin’
    • Speaking of tomatoes, Splinter and I glanced over with envy at the instructor who was leading the tomatoes in a series of stretches.  This prompted Splinter to recall a very humorous scene from the movie Couples Retreat…I’m sure he’d be happy to share the link

    Saab abides

     

  • This too shall pass…

    One shy of 11 PAX arrived for a trail run along the scenic James.  Here is the rundown:

    Route A:  North Bank, cross at the new bridge, then take Buttermilk trail on back.

    Route B:  Above, but add-in Forest Hill loop

    Route C:  Above…repeato

    YHC can’t begin without making mention of TYA who is on the DL today, and thus the inspiration for today’s BB title.  Get well Brother.

    Most of the PAX opted for option A, while Lab Rat, Hat Trick, and Saab ventured off through Forest Hill.  TClaps to HT for both pushing through the miles and expressing his plans to attend future trail runs as often as he can…Helix’s 2.0 is clearly a committed runner.   Hat Trick also brought his friend Jacob who will be named the next time he posts.

    A few other observations:

    • Phonics demonstrated his appreciation for the trail on numerous occasions by getting down and as close to it as possible.  The man recovered well after each spill and maintained his usual positive demeanor.
    • On the topic of Phonics, the guy is quick…whether it involves catching up to the PAX due to a late arrival, or taking a speedy pit-stop that would make a NASCAR crew blush with envy
    • Enjoyed the company and conversation as usual.  No shortage of entertaining topics when LR is in the house
    • Happened to meet up with Taxi Cab and Mile High near the end of my run.  It was nice to chat with them and YHC hopes they can advance their alarm clocks a bit earlier next time and join the rest of the PAX.

    Saab abides

  • Beatlemania has bitten the dust…

    It was a cool yet comfortable 50 degrees as 10 PAX arrived for the day’s run around UR.  Some arrived by car while others arrived on foot.  YHC arrived with a route that was accompanied by little instruction nor variability to accommodate alternate distances.  Not to worry, TYA jumped in and took the lead on a route for those in the PAX who were looking for slightly shorter mileage.

    Since YHC was offering little in terms of useful directions today, initial conversation pointed toward everyone’s ability to wear lighter clothes in such balmy weather.  Corporate, pulling a page from Wilson’s playbook, was hearing none of it.  Outfitted in double layers and a wool hat, Swirly promptly reminded the PAX they were a bunch of morons and it was February for cripe-sakes…duly noted…

    Other Considerations:

    • If you ever show up late to a Q you best hope to have TYA there who will either back you up or wrestle it from your hands.
    • Bleeder’s biking outfits are beginning to resemble the discount table at Peter Blair
    • Exercise caution when dealing with a PAX who carries a concealed weapon…just sayin’

    Announcements and Contacts:  Suicide Prevention Fundraiser (Fudd).  Smoke Mountain Relay (TYA).  Ragnar (Toga), Tapering-to-Win (Lockjaw)

    Saab abides

     

  • Kids, don’t try this at home…

    Eleven intrepid men – which included two south-siders (south to DaVille that is) – presented themselves on a dark frigid morning for YHC’s first DaVille Q.  This is more or less what transpired…

    COP:  SSH, DQ, Merkins

    Red Barchetta:  Flutter kicks (100), LBC (75), Mountain Climbers (50), Merkins (25).  Perform each at corresponding yard-line after out and back suicide run.

    Donkey Kicks (10, 20, 30):  After each set Polar Bear crawl out, then crab-crawl back.

    Catch Me If You Can:  Partner runs backwards around bus loop while partner does 5 burpees, run and tag partner then swap. Two laps around.

    Jacobs Ladder:  1 merkin, 1 J-Squat, 1 Burpee.  Ascending to 7 for each.  Perform across 3 alternating points across b-ball court….running from point to point.

    Mary:  LBC’s (30), Rosalitas (30), Box-Cutters (20)

    Moleskin:

    YHC wanted to end the month with a bang, which thus led to his innaugural Q at DaVille.  Having posted there only once before – in the dark – he required occasional orientation.  This was evident as he prepared for the Red Barchetta, where the PAX had to confirm for him both a) they were truly standing on a soccer field and b) the true direction of the goal line.  Having that settled, YHC expressed his disdain for the band Rush as he went through the details of the exercise.

    Having remembered it was too cold for fireflies, YHC realized the periodic glow of lights he witnessed was from those checking their wristwatches.  Concerns then arose that the PAX was growing bored and feeling un-challenged.  To hopefully remedy this, he threw in his beloved Jacobs Ladder at the end…in the hope it would fill the void.

    On a more personal note, after posting 30 days this month, this concluded YHC’s own personal csaup for the month of January….one cannot stress enough how stupid and utterly pointless this was – thus the title of today’s BB.

    Announcement:  Lab Rat has one more DaVille shirt to unload at a bargain price.

    Saab abides

  • Looking at your watch won’t make it end any sooner…

    18 unsuspecting gents descended upon Dogpile for light calisthenics and a round of Tai Chi.  This is what actually transpired…

    COP:  SSH, DQ’s, and Arm Circles

    Dora’s:  Merkins (100), Leg Toss (100)/Flutter Kick (100), LBC (300).  Partner runs up hill (the very steep one with fencing at the top.

    Run to (Golden) Triangle…there’s a dirty joke there somewhere. Bear Crawl, 10 Merkins, Run, 20 Burpees, run (backwards) up hill, 30 WWII’s.

    Wheelbarrow’s up carillon steps.  Perform Merkin at each step.  Each partner does one round.  Alternating leg tosses (10) once done.

    Jacob’s Ladder: Starting at top of hill perform first of the following, advance to bottom perform second, advance to top on other side complete 3rd, then increment:  For example 1 merkin, 1 J-Squat, 1 Burpee, 2 Merkins, 2 J-Squats, 2 Burpees, etc.  All the way to 7

    Amphitheater:  5 dips then 2 merkins.  Alternating steps all the way to the top

    COP:  Freddie Mercuries, LBC’s, Rosalitas, Merkin ring of fire

    Moleskin:

    Since YHC has logged almost daily posts this month he wanted to end the month right.  As such he chose one of his favorite AO’s, selected some of the most punishing exercises hatched by other sadists in the group, and took the opportunity to try something new.  As one who likes a workout that leaves folks a bit fatigued at the end, he hoped he succeeded in this regard.

    Having not been privy to much mumble chatter, YHC will just list the fond observations and revelations he gleaned from today’s workout:

    • There was apparently a fair amount of watch monitoring today.  This could be chalked off to either boredom or a desire to see if there was still time to attend another F3 workout in RVA.  YHC will work harder next time to keep the PAX better occupied.
    • If you see something that resembles chocolate soft-serve, don’t touch it…it may have been skillfully placed there by Fudd
    • Speaking of Fudd, Lab Rat loaned him a new personal entertainment device. Still not certain what it’s exact use is, nor the legality of it’s implied use in all 50 states

    Announcements:  Fudd will be sending more information regarding an upcoming fundraiser (golf tournament) to benefit suicide prevention.  The PAX appreciates his dedication to this cause.

    Saab abides

  • Inaugural F3 RVA CSAUP…”and it’s not even noon yet…”

    44 intrepid gents presented themselves for the first F3 RVA CSAUP.  The following is just some of what transpired and YHC has no doubt there are countless other stories to be told here…

    Swirly Q (Dogpile):  COP in amphitheater.  Perform the following on each step (18 steps total):  10 Merkins, 15 Dips, 25 LBC’s.  Run (3.3 miles) to next AO – Punisher

    Circle K (Punisher):  COP.   Perform exercise at 3 points…25 LBC, 25 WWII, 10 Burpees.  Three rounds…first round, Lunge from point to point, second, Kerioke, third round, bear crawl from point to point.  Quick COP at end and then run (3 miles) to next AO (Mary Munford)

    Sippy Cup (Mary Munford):  COP.  First round:  Person throws frisbee.  PAX runs until frisbee lands.  Perform 5 merkins and then “crawl” to frisbee (alternating bear crawls, crab walks, broad jumps, one legged bear crawls, others?).  11’s:  Jump Squats and LBCs.  6’s:  Burpees and Merkins.  Run back to original AO beginning at Grove (2.5 miles).

    Swirly leads COT.  Adjourn to cookout thoughtfully prepared by Circle K.

    Moleskin:

    Beginning the first workout in the pre-dawn hours, the PAX appeared to fill the entire space of the amphitheater.  After a few disclaimers and a warning to “pace yourselves fellas” for the long morning ahead (i.e. 3 hour workout) Swirly began the COP.  Given the large number of PAX, the outright enthusiasm shown by all – the sound of Swirly and the PAX hitting their cadence resonated throughout the park…It was all the Q and PAX could do to keep chubs from forming and continue the work at hand.  As everyone began the first exercise and advanced up the steps, initial concerns regarding the lack of mumble chatter were quickly laid to rest as the-usual-suspects made their presence known.  Once everyone advanced to the top of the amphitheater, the PAX proceeded to run through the city toward the next AO with at least half a dozen flags in hand.

    As the PAX began to filter in to Punisher, they were greeted by Circle K who had a full set of provisions available for everyone to refuel.  Once everyone was  accounted for, Circle K took the Q and led us through the aforementioned beatdown…It’s a frickin’ triangle people!  It was about that time that YHC realized this was no ordinary workout and we weren’t even half way through.  The mumble chatter of surrounding PAX was alive and well, however, which made the call to advance toward our next AO seem to come somewhat sooner than expected.

    It was during the run to Mary that YHC extended an offer to carry Hampton Roads flag being carried by Dreamliner.  Having carried a flag during prior run, little thought was given to the fact that this was  a) a different flag and b) an industrial grade flag built by RVA brethren.  It was at that point that YHC’s pace slowed considerably and he began imagining running with one of Honey Do’s sand bags as a mild form of relief.  Tclaps to Dreamline and the rest of the H.R. contingent for carrying that flag through all three legs!

    As the PAX filtered in to Mary they descended upon the provisions which were well received by all.   Doner Kebab, who was experiencing a bit of chafing, began polling the PAX for some form of lube to ease the friction.  Although no one seemed to carry DK’s preferred brand, Big Tennessee (BT) did offer up a pack of his “One Wipe Charlies”.  Not knowing if the wipes were suitable for the area upon which DK was looking to apply them did not stop him from giving it a go.  YHC learned later that DK was demonstrating odd contortions during the COP due to a burning sensation brought about by the Charlies-wipes.

    Sippy led the 3rd Q with his usual precision and timing.  Despite leading a PAX which had been moving for over 2 hours, he brought a workout that was diverse and kept everyone on their toes, if not knees.  (YHC personally did not have any ability to perform one-legged bear crawls…on a good day they represent a challenge…after running several miles they were fairly impossible.)  Sippy then gathered us up at Grove and gave final instructions on how to get back to the starting AO and conclude the workout.  Offers were extended to “race” for those who were willing – a challenge taken up by some…not taken by YHC by the way.

    As we circled-up we took inventory of those who were there throughout the morning and present.  Marv took us out with some highly inspirational words.  Many then adjourned to the tailgate where Circle K already had a fire going with his weenies roasting.

    Acknowledgements:

    Extreme thanks to Circle K, Sippy Cup, and Swirly for pulling this together.  Provisons, logistics, and leadership were outstanding!

    Particular thanks to Circle K for purchasing all provisions, ensuring proper provisions were available at each AO, and for pulling together an awesome tailgate.  IMPORTANT:  If you haven’t already, PLEASE throw some deceased-presidents Circle K’s way – in whatever amount you feel appropriate.

    Thanks to “Lab Rat brewing company”.  I know a lot of effort goes into making what I personally view as an outstanding product…

    Thanks to the Hampton Roads PAX for making the trip and joining in our first ever CSAUP.  We look forward to attending your first someday

    I am certain there were many more achievements and stories, which I look forward to hearing about in the back blast.  Thanks for a great day gentlemen.  I am truly proud and always appreciative to be part of such a fine group.

    Saab abides.

     

  • Miracle on the Hudson (er…James)

    2 appeared in the dark today for the weekly trail run along the banks of the James River.  Other regulars who were absent today were TYA and Lab Rat, who were running the Willis Creek 35k.

    Given Offshore’s time constraints, his plan started with a straight out and back run (30 minutes each way).  Plans were thwarted, however, when he chose to stick with YHC through the south side run to Forest Hill loop – thus adding about 20 minutes extra to his run.  Upon exiting the loop, Offshore and YHC parted company, with Offshore heading back on the South side, and YHC heading East to the ‘new bridge’ with a return on North side.

    Respect to TYA and Lab Rat (and any others?) running the Willis River 35k today…a distance YHC could only cover these days if either chased by a ferocious animal, or if chasing a pair of well positioned tights (NOT TYA’s).

    On this day in history, Sully Sullenberger flew his plane into a flock of unsuspecting birds…there were no survivors.

    Saab abides

  • Figure Eight…

    5 intrepid runners presented themselves for a jaunt around UR.  Although the temperature was about 15 degrees, it seemed pleasant given the single digit temperatures we had experienced in prior days.

    Given the conditions in surrounding neighborhoods due to the recent snowfall, YHC chose to keep the run within UR grounds.  The route was essentially a “figure-eight” covering the two main loops among the campus.  Some ran two iterations while others in added one more loop at the end.

    YHC enjoyed his run and conversation with Sippy and Marv.  Not too much else to report, but YHC did take pride in being called-out for wearing shorts by some local moms walking their dogs (oh yeah)

    Announcements:  Warmer weather is on the way!

    Saab abides

  • 6 degrees and 6 miles and 6 inches, oh my…

    2 stubborn knuckleheads decided to run in single digit temperatures the day after a snowstorm.  Given the condition of both the trails and roads, location was moved to MM.  With an agreement to run 30 minutes out and back along Grove, the PAX covered about 6 miles.

    To say it was cold is an understatement.  Although YHC had no regrets wearing his shorts, he grew jealous of TYA who donned far superior face and hand gear.  By the second half of the run, YHC’s nose, fingers, and other appendages – for which nature did not allow the ability to recess themselves within one’s body cavity – were past numb and approaching frostbite.  “Coldest F3 run ever” as TYA noted.

    F3 RVA baby…where it’s always sunny and 70, and we never close.

    Saab abides

     

  • OK, this took a bit longer than expected…

    17 men presented themselves for light calisthenics and as little running as possible.  This is what actually transpired…

    COP:  DQ’s, SSH’s, and 50 LBC’s

    Suicides:  At each tree along the field (11 total) perform stated exercise corresponding with the tree number (i.e. ascending to 11).  Run back to start after each set of reps.  Three rounds…Merkins, Jump Squats, Burpees

    Crawls (Across T-Courts):  4 courts…Bear Crawl, Crawl Bear, Crab Crawl, Polar Bear.  Perform 20 LBC’s after traversing each court (80 total).

    NMS:

    YHC is a firm believer in the importance of aerobic activity.  As such a series of suicides were thrown out incorporating two exercises (Merkins and Jump Squats) and their sinister offspring (Burpees).  What he did not count on was the extensive time it would take given all the running involved, so plans for other playful drills were dashed and deferred for another day. Some of the PAX later pointed out that RAMM was tomorrow and not today…an editorial comment Goldberg endorsed when he confirmed the PAX had covered 3 miles.

    YHC was not privy to much mumble chatter but he did appreciate hearing one PAX’s occasional jokes regarding holding six-inches (hint…his name rhymes with Cab Cat).

    Announcements:  CSAUP.  Please get involved and don’t be daunted.  There are options to participate in the entire effort or just pieces and parts.  It is just important that you be there…it’s going to be a fun and rewarding day.

    Wong Gonzalez for lunch today.  It is IMPORTANT that you DRINK PLENTY OF LIQUIDS prior to and during the meal.  You won’t be disappointed.

    Saab abides.