Author: Saab

  • 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.

  • One for the thumb!

    7 intrepid men showed in various types and layers in the hope of shielding themselves from a very cold and rainy run.  This is what transpired.

    As a extension to the “four finger” route introduced a few weeks ago, YHC wanted to add another digit.  Thus we added Boatright Drive to the mix making it a full-fisted route of hill-work (effectively 5 out and back routes – all of which extended to Three Chopt).  In the interest of squeezing in the fifth finger, YHC had those in the front who first reached the top of each hill (Three Chopt), run back and scoop up all remaining runners who would then all turn around.  This kept the PAX reasonably together while ensuring everyone had time to traverse most or all of each leg.

    Regarding the weather, one can guess how nasty it was to run in cold, saturating rain.  YHC personally felt miserable and did not have a dry piece of clothing or skin by the conclusion of the run. (There is a significant difference between a “wind” and “rain” jacket as Saab and Swirly quickly learned.)  Marv appeared to have the all-weather gear from head to toe, while BT opted-out for the ninja look and instead chose to express himself in rainbow colors (not quite LTBT however).

    Although it may be fleeting, YHC felt better physically than he has in a long time.  I really appreciate everyone of you gents for coming out in such miserable weather.  Once through it, it made for a great start to my day.

    Note:  On my run home, not a sign of Seal Team in the parking lot nor anywhere on the grounds….just sayin’

    Saab abides

  • Only one frozen bird and a lost nut…

    10 enthusiastic gentlemen presented themselves for morning calisthenics and a jaunty shuffle around Linwood Elementary…This is what transpired:

    COP:  SSH, Arm Circles (big ones only!), DQ’s, Merkins, LBC’s

    Doras:  Flutter kicks (100), Rosalitas (200), LBC (300).  Partner runs to end of b-ball court and back.

    11’s:  Derkins (off picnic bench) and Burpees. Run to/from bench to wall in between.  B-to-wall when done.

    Lindsays:  Dips off bench (35 to start…descend by 5), WWII’s (5 to start…ascend by 5).  Run across b-ball court in between.

    Polar bear crawl:  (a quickie) Complete 10 merkins once done.  Back to flag

    NMS:

    YHC’s (selfish) approach to cold weather is to maintain as much continued movement as possible.  In the hope this was achieved at some level, he was impressed how well everyone performed.  Not too much mumble chatter heard aside from the soothing din of Lab Rat conversing through the Lindsays, and BT and Toga discussing sports-team stuff…about which Saab had nothing to contribute.  The wind this morning kept us moving and was a continuous reminder not to be downwind from Fudd during an unannounced release.  YHC also enjoys Toga’s continued critique of said-person’s form and follow-through – particularly on any exercise that is named after a global conflict.  Application of Burpees in the 11’s was partially inspired by Toga’s beatdown last week…although not a complete payback, hopefully it placed a dent in Toga’s light fluffy shell.

    It was great to have the folks from the North (Lab Rat and Opus) make the trip.  YHC now has to return the favor now that he has his DaVille shirt.

    Announcements:  HDHH this week, and looking forward to CSAUP next month (along with an LBC challenge perhaps), BT has a new (retro) ride, and Toga is missing a nut (please contact him if you stumble upon it)

    Saab abides

     

     

  • Five fingers should do it…

    9 men arrived in the gloom to take in a morning run in only slightly damp and chilly whether…

    Route:  Progress out and back through a 5 roads leading from UR to Three Chopt (Robin, Iris, Tapoan, Ridgeway, Old Mill).  Mother-goose approach where leads circle back until last has reached the top (i.e. end of each road).

    YHC enjoys his hills and, despite residual pain from this past weekend’s trail run, he wanted to offer a sampling of the various ascents surrounding the campus.  Five out-and-back legs were chosen (or what was later dubbed “5 fingers”).  The entire PAX performed extremely well on all fronts, grinding out some very steep hills.  There was mumble chatter along the way such as “remnants of the BRR”, to “which leg represents the middle finger…”.  Overall, YHC appreciated everyone’s effort given either their participation in this past weekend’s trail race, continued running and/or training for a future event or goal, or just running to and from the AO like Marv and Sippy are always prone to do. (Respect to all of you guys!).

    Announcements:  Please offer up or help support a 3rd F for this month.  Given the holiday season, it is easy to forget those for whom this time of year is simply a reminder of their ongoing struggles.  Case in point, TYA will be sharing information regarding an organization that offers meals to homeless high school students (one of which works at our stomping ground ET).  DK is also working on an event so please reach out to him.

    Saab abides

  • The exercise that shall not be named…

    16 (+/-) arrived in unseasonably warm weather to get their day off to the right start.  This is what transpired:

    COP:  SSH, Imperial Walkers, DQ’s, LBC’s

    Red Barchetta:  Suicides to 100, 75, 50, 25 yard lines.  Perform the following all single count, respectively:  100 flutter kicks, 75 Mountain Climbers, 50 LBC, 25 Burpees

    Crawl across (4) tennis courts:  Bear Crawl, Crab Crawl, Crawl Bear, and Polar Bear.  Repeat going back.

    Catch Me if You Can:  Partner up.  Partner 1 runs backwards on track while partner 2 performs 5 burpees and then runs (facing forward) to tag partner, then switch.  2 laps

    Triple Check:  Balls to Wall, WWII, Run to other side of court, perform 5 high knee jumps, then return.  Person doing B-to-Wall bear crawls to WWII station.  4 rounds

    Circle of Fire:  Burpee shuffle, then a few minutes of Mary:  Rosalitas, Hello Dollys, and Superman

    NMS:

    To celebrate the conclusion of last month’s challenge (that shall not be named), YHC made an effort to avoid the not-aforementioned exercise.  For the most part he was successful with exception of including the beloved Polar Bears.  Furthermore, when some inquired about how to perform the exercise, YHC declined full explanation and left it to others to elaborate on what to perform every 5 steps.

    Cautions were laid out in advance of the Catch Me If You Can and, as far as YHC knows, obstacles were avoided and all the backwards runners stayed upright.  One can only imagine what the couple walking their dogs thought (or their dogs for that matter) as they were passed by those running backwards and hitting the ground for burpees.

    YHC did not hear much mumble chatter.  He chalked that off to his distraction as the Q, the high amount of aerobic activity, and the absence of TYA who showed at the very end.  Credit to TYA for at least showing up at the end and explaining the legitimate reason for his absence.

    Further thoughts were expressed regarding the passing of Toga’s father.  We look forward to him getting back to Richmond.

    Announcements:  Bear Creek this weekend.  Some were quick to (still) offer up Lab Rat’s back door, which raised concerns his back door was getting an awful lot of use.  But as Swirly rightly stated:  “not that there’s anything wrong with that.”

    Saab abides

  • It’s better in the Bahamas…

    6 intrepid gentlemen arrived at University of Richmond commons for a post-holiday run.

    Route (Splinter Special): Take university entrance, run through river road shopping center and head toward bridge.

    4 milers:  traverse bridge and cloverleaf, then return.    5 milers:  head East, turn around at Rock Falls.  6 milers:  go past z-dam…to somewhere (or turn around at z-dam if you want a slightly shorter run – which is what we did).

    NMS:  Whether it was illness, copious amounts of food and spirits, or a trip to a resort in the Bahamas, it was clear the PAX was still shaking off the long holiday.   All mile options were covered by at least one.  Those who targeted the 6 mile made a deliberate decision to turn early given aforementioned recoveries.  Otherwise it was a solid run in unusually warm and only slightly damp weather.

    Chalking it up to distraction, YHC completely bypassed the name-o-rama (sorry guys).  Marv took us out – which was uplifting as usual.

    Announcements:

    There is one more contingent headed to Virginia Beach.  See Rosie for details (there was debate as to whether it was this Saturday or next)

    There are still a couple of t-shirts options available (DaVille, Circus Maximus).  Purchases are still needed to meet the minimum.

    Saab abides

  • Since its cold, we’ll just have to run faster…

    4 gathered at UofR on a (very) frigid morning to take on various hills in and around the campus and surrounding neighborhood.  Total distance was between 5 and 6 miles – coupled by some obligatory merkins in the beginning and end.

    Moleskin:

    With TYA off running a 20 miler in the mountains with Lab Rat, Marv in the Bahamas, and other regulars among the missing, it was a fairly light crew but we made the best of it.  Since Swirly was elsewhere (No Toll), YHC took it upon himself to crank out some solo merkins – many of which were performed in the comfort of the Student Commons.  Other than that, it was great to be running along with Sippy again and catching up on things.  Through this, YHC learned that Marv is currently in the Bahamas with the VCU Rams.  Assuming Marv will post some runs down there, let’s hope he experiences some weather in the low 70’s, so he can (almost) know what we are going through up here.

    BackBay and TwoCan did a great job today.  We stayed together as a pack and knocked out some really good hills.  YHC first wondered why he didn’t encounter Seal Team anywhere on the campus, but then he remembered that the temperature was below 35.

    The COT was brief considering the loss of feeling in various extremities.

    Saab abides

  • Steady is the drip that wears the rock away…

    12 intrepid and burgeoning leaders – including 3 FNG’s – descended upon Mount Trashmore for what has now become a hallmark AO for the steadily growing Hampton Roads F3 site.

    The Thang:

    Bleeder Q:  Mosey to steps and perform Step Lunges to the top of MT. Mosey to other side of MT for COP:  SSH, LBC, DQ, Merkins, Imperial Walkers.

    Swirly Q: At the top of the hill, perform Polar Bears from one point to the “Pole” (more about that later).  Perform 20 WW2 situps, and run back.  Al Gore until all were done.  Run to bottom of hill near parking lot for a Triple-Check (2 rounds).  One partner runs up (stairs) and down hill, while other 2 perform Pole Smokers and Merkins.  Runner returns and everyone advances to next exercise.

    Saab Q:  Jacobs Ladder up/down MT.  Ascending Burpees up to 7.  Perform 5 WWII situps each time one passes the midpoint (level area) of the hill.  Hold legs 6 inches until all are done.

    TYA Q:  <start by reminding everyone the importance of his role as Q and how they must all do what he says>.  Perform 11’s from starting point to “TYA’s Pole”.  10 Merkins, 1 Flutter Kick (2 count).  Perform one more round of (10) Merkins and then mosey back to flag for a few minutes of Mary.  Mary:  Rosalitas, Hello Dollys, American Hammers, LBC’s, Superman.  TYA then took us out.

    Moleskin:

    With Bleeder’s “Jack-Bag” in hand, the Richmond PAX departed for Mount Trashmore several hours before dawn.  As one gets to know each PAX, you learn such things as their “density,” one’s preferred temperature (every 15 minutes), and the precise times one’s GI tract come to life each morning.  One also learns that banging on the doors of a convenience store that has not yet opened is acceptable and explainable behavior when one finds it is owned by Bleeder Enterprises, LLC.

    Upon arrival at MT, the PAX was quickly impressed with the size and area of the park and quickly named off a litany of potential drills.  TYA was convinced that, given his commanding leadership as a Q, no PAX would question swimming the lake if directed.  It was at this point YHC questioned that assertion and weighed his respect for a pillar of F3 RVA, with the health risks associated with swimming in a lake located at the foot of a former trash dump.

    There was some initial debate on where to park – either where F3 RVA was previously instructed to park, or elsewhere.  The Richmond PAX chose elsewhere.  It was at that time we had to regroup and mosey to the proper location where the Hampton Roads PAX had already planted their shovel flags.

    As we proceeded through the workout, TYA felt compelled to profess his knowledge of science and engineering by quizzing the PAX on the purpose of the “pole” potruding from the top of the mountain.  Knowledgeable responses were swift, however, and thus “TYA’s Methane Gas Pole” was anointed…”TYA’s Pole” for short.   During the Triple-Checks, one of the PAX remarked on Swirly’s slow, steady, and textbook-form when performing the Merkins.  Swirly’s commanding reply was “Steady is the drip that wears the rock away…”.  It was at that point the PAX were rendered speechless by Swirly’s poetic prowess.

    Also observed was the distribution of custom t-shirts off a (tiny) truck to the “Campos” contingent – which reportedly read “Campos owns Mount Trashmore” on the back. It was all Swirly could do to restrain himself. There was also brief discussion surrounding the number of times the PAX went up the hill during the course of the workout (7)…or 11 by Swirly’s math. (In fairness, one must qualify whether merely “Traversing” a hill counts, and if there is a break in the ascent (e.g.to perform WWII’s) it almost feels like two climbs.  Interesting that one of the PAX pointed out…”we only went up the hill once last week”.

    We welcomed 3 FNG’s (LN2, Sheldon, and Lance). They worked hard today and I hope they continue to post and bring in others.  TClaps to the following: Lance…for choosing to take a morning run before the workout (because 1 hour is not enough), Priorities…for having a baby last Tuesday, and still making the time to post, and Dreamliner for his ongoing enthusiasm and effort to make F3 Hampton Roads a reality.

    Announcements:  Workout at MT next Saturday.  Beginning the week after Thanksgiving, DreamLiner is starting a mid-week workout beginning at 5:30.  Please continue to EH others and grow F3 Hampton Roads.

    Saab abides

     

     

     

  • The theme that shall not be named…

    7 well mannered gentlemen showed for Saab’s first Q at Punisher.  This is more or less what transpired:

    Warmup:  Arm circles, DQ’s, Imperial Walkers, LBC’s, Merkins

    Triple Check:  WWII, Merkins, Run to end of court, perform burpee, and return

    Pullups (5), Diamond-Merkins (10):  4 rounds

    10 burpees, run to tree, Polar-Bear to next tree and back, return.  Repeat said routine with 30 American Hammers.

    11’s (Derkins and Jump Squats)

    Curb Crawls (Bear and Crab) to 7

    Total Merkins today:  228 (Thanks again to Bleeder for taking copious notes)

    NMS:

    At the start of today’s workout YHC felt compelled to share Toga’s prior words of encouragement when he learned Saab would be taking the Q…”Try not to be a pussy” was the directive.  Little did YHC know, that would become the unofficial theme of workout…that and avoiding exercises that involved  getting too close to TYA’s tights.

    After YHC expressed his fondness for the aforementioned body part (in the parlance of our time), the PAX proceeded to point out landmarks that resembled such a part (which shall not be named in the interest of decorum).  Who knew one would find so many on an elementary school ground.

    Anyway, the workout began and ended with discussion regarding TYA’s tights, including pleads not to let him tuck in his shirt.  YHC could only suggest he invest in a MUCH longer shirt, or a loose pair of shorts to cover what was no longer a mystery.

    Announcements:

    F3 RVA gear is available on the website.

    HDHH this Wednesday (see TYA’s back blast).

    Toga is prone to providing (classy?) pre-direction on one’s Q – particularly when he has no intention of showing up himself.

    Saab abides.

     

  • The old grey Saab ain’t what it use to be…

    17 gentlemen presented themselves in 36 degree temperatures prepared for morning calisthenics. This is what transpired
    COP: Helicopters, DQ’s, Imperial Walkers, Pickle Pounders, LBC’s
    Amphitheater: Bear crawl from top step to bottom. Perform 5 Derkins each step. Lindays: 30 dips, run to top, 10 Merkins
    Doras (Modified): Flutter Kicks (102), Freddy Mercurys (153), Merkins (204)
    Triangle: WWII’s (20), bear crawl, Merkins (20), Burpees (20). Two rounds
    Inverted pole smokers: Derkin position. Perform 3 derkins, and 1 derkin each time someone passes.
    COP: Flutter kicks (51), LBC (21), Merkin (17), Burpee shuffle

    NMS
    While most arrived appropriately suited-up for the chilly temperatures, Hardywood and Rosie came dressed in what one would normally wear to a trail-run in the middle of July (absent Wilson of course). As the PAX progressed through the Bear Crawls in the amphitheater it was noted that there was an unusual absence of mumble chatter. All was made right, however, as Lab Rat arrived during the Doras and shattered the sound of eerie silence.

    Residual chatter regarding Honey Do’s (passed) kidney stone remained, which prompted mention of having to file a harassment claim with F3 Corporate. (Corporate promptly responded with what they would do with such a claim.) Others were more inquisitive, however, asking such questions as “is there such as thing as a Kidney-Stone fairy and will he leave you something if you place it in the bottom of your underwear drawer?”

    YHC organized today’s workout with the intent to celebrate his birthday and mark his first full year of “respect” with his F3 brethren. As such, certain counts were placed at multiples of 51 throughout. The subtlety was lost on most with the exception of Lockjaw (“ABT”) and his command of the Gregorian calendar. We also took a brief pause to perform a set of merkins in acknowledgement of those running the half-marathon today (TYA, Circle K, Gumbo, others?). Way to go fellas!

    Second post at ET was a welcome treat for YHC who had not been able to attend (on a Saturday) due to his summer of running.

    Bleeder again kept copious tabs on the merkin count which was 406 today…more for those who added on the end. (Thanks to Lab Rat for the Boo-Ya merkin assists.)

    Announcements: VQ next week!, HDHH next week, Bear Creek 10 miler (see Lab Rat’s back door)

    Saab abides.