Almost at the starting line

October 9, 2009 

It is down to 1 day, 17 hours, 4 minutes, and a couple of seconds. 

No much going on.  I am really sticking to the tapering program for the marathon.  Tuesday, I did 3 miles and then yoga (I added this).  Wednesday did 6 miles easy run.  Thursday (yesterday), 2 miles and soak in the hot pool at the gym.  Today, I went to my PT session with Jamie, who gave my legs a good rub down and no exercise. 

Jamie notice the big rash on both side my upper legs due to roller foaming my ITB.  She asks in a scolding manner....'why?  how often do you use your roller foam, Bo?'  Well, everyday, twice a day sometimes while watching TV.  Too much?  Yeah!  Oops.   She said that's really an athlete's problem of over doing things.  Anyway, she really gave my legs a good massage.  Thanks, Jamie of Novacare...there happy now? 

She also asks, what song I will be humming (she remembers my previous blog Sept. 21 running 20 miles) and if I will be turning into a Kenyan again.  Who knows?  But the plan is;

• start with the 12 minute pace group for the first half
• chase the 11 minute pacer and hope to catch him at mile 20
• and bring on the Kenyan home....it's on, baby
• or waddle home to the finish line like a penguin and take in the experience.

I guess we will see.  Like you and the rest who have been sending me messages, greetings, and emails, many are looking forward to my post race report.  I wish I can take a video or a camera.  I got to plan this better, maybe next year.  

Tonight, my wife and I will attend the dinner by American Cancer Society for all its Charity Runners.  It will start the festivities leading to the race.  Then tomorrow, I go and pick up my packet.  Bib number 30865.   

I am almost there towards the end of my journey.  I am not sure what will happen.  But I am sooo grateful to those who have helped.  Running or cancer, whichever is the cause, has transformed me.  Maybe it will transform me to a Kenyan.  :o) Nonetheless, this Sunday is my baptism of fire and I know you are all there to witness it. 

Asante (Thank you...in Swahili-my second language) 

PS:  You can track me to the finish with this website.  It will send text or email as I cross 5K, 10K, 15K, to the finish.  For non-US resident, if your mobile accepts email you will get it.  Look for my name, Bo Alvarez, once sent you will receive confirmation which is needed to be entered back.  You need to create a username or enter your email

http://live.activeresult.com/msg/MSG-signup.tcl?event_id=37