So its now almost been 3 months since I made the biggest decision of my life and moved across the country out here to Flagstaff.
Sometimes it still seems really surreal, especially when I'm out on a trail, busting through another 60 min. run, and a view of the mountains comes in through the trees. Sometimes its hard to believe that I'm really here doing this.
A wise man once told me that "It's a dangerous business going out your front door." implying that the road ahead is not going to be easy. And it certainly has not been easy. It has been an incredibly tough process. I'm working my ass off, both in the workplace, and on the roads, and sometimes the weight of it all can be a bit heavy.
But I wouldn't change a thing.
I'm honestly happier now than I have been in a long long time.
My life is entirely focused on the task at hand. Everything revolves around becoming the best runner I possibly can be, and I realize now, that this is what I've been missing from my life these past few months.
I haven't had that focus, that single minded drive towards one goal, and I think that was part of what made me so unhappy at times.
And with this focus comes lessons, growth, and realizations.
Since I've been here I've learnt more, and grown more as a person and runner than in the past 3 years combined. I'm more responsible and more accountable for my actions than at any point in my life previously. I'm on my own, on my own two feet, and excelling, and its a wonderful feeling.
And because of these lessons, I'm done putting limits on what I can accomplish. For too long I have limited myself as to what I can do.
In high school it was just getting a state medal, not competing for a title.
In college it was getting to NCAA's, or getting All-American. Until at one point I aimed for a national title, but the road got bumpy, and again I got scared to dream.
Post-college, for awhile, there were no goals. Maybe get to the trials? Run half decently? That was where I put my limits.
Enough of that.
I'm coming to realization that maybe I'm more talented than I originally believed. The limits of this I do not know, so why put limits on where I can go and what I can accomplish.
Someone once told me prior to my coming out here to "Go be great". Well damnit, that's what I'm going to do.
No longer is it "just trying to make the trials".
I want to make the damn team. I want to win a US title at some point. I want to don the USA uniform.
I want to run 2:10 in the marathon, Sub 8:20 in the steeplechase, Sub 4 for the mile, 13:30 for 5k, 28:00 for 10k.
I want to do the work to make these things happen. I want to run the miles. I want to grind out the workouts. This is the life I want to live.
I may not make a ton of money in my life, but I'll have more than 99% of people who do. Once I hang them up for good, I want to look back and smile at the things I did and be glad I did them, with nothing held back, and no regrets.
And with that, I'll be happy. Which, in the end, is all I want.
Nick Hilton: The Maybe not so Moderately Talented Distance Runner
Friday, November 30, 2012
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Belated Thankfulness Post + Race Results!!
So Its a few days after Thanksgiving, but I still have a ton to be thankful for and a ton of people to recognize for impacting my life in an incredibly positive way. Its been a bumpy road to get to the place I am now, but I am happier than I have been in a long time, and there are a lot of people who are responsible for that so here comes the thank yous!
So I think the best way to this is a list.
People Nick is Thankful for:
The Entire ARS Staff (Joel, Alicia, Dee, June, Sorita, and Lauren): Your support and friendship during my time at home was crucial at a time when I was a pretty lost soul. During my time at ARS you guys (whether you realized it or not) helped me find myself once again, and rediscover my love and passion for the sport of running. I don't think I've ever enjoyed a job more, and working at the store was never really "work" for me, I enjoyed coming in everyday and seeing you guys. It was a fantastic experience.
My Lock Haven Family: (Coach Russell, Mazur, Muff, and all the rest of the guys) Always being positive and supportive through some rough days, and being there for me even though I certainly didn't always deserve it. You've done some things for me which I'll never be able to repay, and will always remember.
My New Flagstaff Family: (Matt Walsh, Julian De Rubira, Adam Vess, Steve Soprano, Alicia Shay, Matt Llano, Vince Sherry, et al) You guys make Flagstaff fun and a place that I can certainly now call my home. To the guys that I run with: We're gonna make some waves in the near future, that's for damn sure. Keep putting in the work and we will be bashing some skulls and bringing back scalps in no time.
Ryan Blood and Ryan Mulchahy: You guys are the reason I'm out here living my dream right now. My appreciation for your help and friendship can't be understated in the slightest. Keep on plugging, and good things will happen.
The Crew: You guys are the shit, no other way around that. Can't wait til we are all reunited and can all make fun of Ross once again for being the Queen of the Maids. Good times certainly await us in the near future.
Melinda: Just thanks for being an awesome friend through many bad days. I don't think I've ever deserved you as a friend or anything else, but you always lend a hand and tell me how it is, and I certainly need that. The words Thank You will never suffice, but at least its something.
Last but Certainly not Least: My Family: The people that have put up with everything, and support me through it all. When I said I was moving 2000+ miles away, they never flinched, but supported me and my dreams, which is all I can ask for. Not a day goes by without me appreciating every little thing they've done for me. So thank you, and I'll see you soon.
Sorry if I forgot anyone, I tried to give shoutouts to as many people as possible. Thank you to everyone who reads this thing and supports what I'm doing out here. The thought of all of you helps me get through some of those bad runs at 10 pm at night.
So If you got through all that and are still reading, its time for Race Results!!
Ran the Dana Point 10k turkey trot on Thanksgiving day and actually had a positive result!!!
Official time was 30:34, which was my original goal, so I can say it was a good day. I went out hard again, but was conservative through some of the middle miles, to make sure that I didn't bonk the last few miles. I definitely feel like 30:15 could have been possible if I was a little more aggressive.
So considering what kind of workouts I've been doing, this is a very big step and bodes very well for the future.
Resultfs are here --> https://www.runraceresults.com/Secure/RaceResults.cfm?ID=RCEL2012
Next up is the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run on New Years Eve!!
Welp, see you all later!
Nick: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner
So I think the best way to this is a list.
People Nick is Thankful for:
The Entire ARS Staff (Joel, Alicia, Dee, June, Sorita, and Lauren): Your support and friendship during my time at home was crucial at a time when I was a pretty lost soul. During my time at ARS you guys (whether you realized it or not) helped me find myself once again, and rediscover my love and passion for the sport of running. I don't think I've ever enjoyed a job more, and working at the store was never really "work" for me, I enjoyed coming in everyday and seeing you guys. It was a fantastic experience.
My Lock Haven Family: (Coach Russell, Mazur, Muff, and all the rest of the guys) Always being positive and supportive through some rough days, and being there for me even though I certainly didn't always deserve it. You've done some things for me which I'll never be able to repay, and will always remember.
My New Flagstaff Family: (Matt Walsh, Julian De Rubira, Adam Vess, Steve Soprano, Alicia Shay, Matt Llano, Vince Sherry, et al) You guys make Flagstaff fun and a place that I can certainly now call my home. To the guys that I run with: We're gonna make some waves in the near future, that's for damn sure. Keep putting in the work and we will be bashing some skulls and bringing back scalps in no time.
Ryan Blood and Ryan Mulchahy: You guys are the reason I'm out here living my dream right now. My appreciation for your help and friendship can't be understated in the slightest. Keep on plugging, and good things will happen.
The Crew: You guys are the shit, no other way around that. Can't wait til we are all reunited and can all make fun of Ross once again for being the Queen of the Maids. Good times certainly await us in the near future.
Melinda: Just thanks for being an awesome friend through many bad days. I don't think I've ever deserved you as a friend or anything else, but you always lend a hand and tell me how it is, and I certainly need that. The words Thank You will never suffice, but at least its something.
Last but Certainly not Least: My Family: The people that have put up with everything, and support me through it all. When I said I was moving 2000+ miles away, they never flinched, but supported me and my dreams, which is all I can ask for. Not a day goes by without me appreciating every little thing they've done for me. So thank you, and I'll see you soon.
Sorry if I forgot anyone, I tried to give shoutouts to as many people as possible. Thank you to everyone who reads this thing and supports what I'm doing out here. The thought of all of you helps me get through some of those bad runs at 10 pm at night.
So If you got through all that and are still reading, its time for Race Results!!
Ran the Dana Point 10k turkey trot on Thanksgiving day and actually had a positive result!!!
Official time was 30:34, which was my original goal, so I can say it was a good day. I went out hard again, but was conservative through some of the middle miles, to make sure that I didn't bonk the last few miles. I definitely feel like 30:15 could have been possible if I was a little more aggressive.
So considering what kind of workouts I've been doing, this is a very big step and bodes very well for the future.
Resultfs are here --> https://www.runraceresults.com/Secure/RaceResults.cfm?ID=RCEL2012
Next up is the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run on New Years Eve!!
Welp, see you all later!
Nick: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Trial of Miles, Miles of Trials
Just plugging away here in Flag. Definitely starting to feel the buildup of miles from over the past 10 weeks or so.
Being moderately talented means that I also need to work to be able to keep training. So the combination of 45 hour work weeks and 90+ miles can get you a bit run down. Through it all though, I remember why I'm doing this, and how good I want to be.
Days get long, (even though they're actually getting shorter and colder), but I know the work will pay off.
Everytime I start to struggle and find it tough, I just think about how good it would feel to come down the homestretch of the U.S. Championships in the steeplechase final, battling some of the top guys in the country. That thought keeps me going through a lot of cold dark runs.
And I know the only way that I'm going to find myself in that position is to keep on logging the miles, putting in the time on the roads and trail.
So on the roads and trails I will stay, with that thought in mind, focused and rolling no matter how cold.
You'll also find me selling shoes, and making up some coffee and burritos, cause a man needs to earn some dough in order to keep chasing the dream.
Having a great group around is also essential and makes those workouts and long runs go by quicker and more pleasantly. Guys like Ryan Blood, Ryan Mulcahey, Julian de Rubira, Adam Vess, Matt Walsh, and Steve Soprano make training in Flagstaff even better, and I can't wait until we start laying down the performances that we're capable of.
Looking forward to racing on Turkey day at Dana Point!
Much Love to All
Nick Hilton: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner
Being moderately talented means that I also need to work to be able to keep training. So the combination of 45 hour work weeks and 90+ miles can get you a bit run down. Through it all though, I remember why I'm doing this, and how good I want to be.
Days get long, (even though they're actually getting shorter and colder), but I know the work will pay off.
Everytime I start to struggle and find it tough, I just think about how good it would feel to come down the homestretch of the U.S. Championships in the steeplechase final, battling some of the top guys in the country. That thought keeps me going through a lot of cold dark runs.
And I know the only way that I'm going to find myself in that position is to keep on logging the miles, putting in the time on the roads and trail.
So on the roads and trails I will stay, with that thought in mind, focused and rolling no matter how cold.
You'll also find me selling shoes, and making up some coffee and burritos, cause a man needs to earn some dough in order to keep chasing the dream.
Having a great group around is also essential and makes those workouts and long runs go by quicker and more pleasantly. Guys like Ryan Blood, Ryan Mulcahey, Julian de Rubira, Adam Vess, Matt Walsh, and Steve Soprano make training in Flagstaff even better, and I can't wait until we start laying down the performances that we're capable of.
Looking forward to racing on Turkey day at Dana Point!
Much Love to All
Nick Hilton: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Results and More!
So, again, its been awhile. Sorry about that, I'll try more to be better at this whole blogging thing.
The Phoenix 10k, was another not stellar result, but, this is a result I learned from for sure. I ran 31:33 for 7th place, which was about a minute off of my goal time. Results here --> http://www.ceptiming.com/2012/misc402/12Phoenix10K-10k-All.txt
2 things that I learned:
1: 4:42 pace feels too easy when you're coming down from 7000 feet, but it catches up with you VERY quickly.
2: With my work being almost entirely aerobic, I had some difficulty walking the anaerobic red line, and found myself crossing over very easily.
2(a): With that said, I feel like I can hold 5-5:10 pace for a good amount of time, but just am not at the point where I can hold a faster pace for any period longer than a mile or two. But that will come with time and more preparation, that just hasn't been the focus in this first phase of my altitude training.
So, overall, while disappointed with the finish, it definitely could have been worse, and I did in fact learn something. Which is always good.
Next race coming up is the Dana Point Turkey Trot 10k, on Thanksgiving day. I WILL hold back and run more conservatively early on, and will hope to negative split and run around 30:30. That would be a good improvement curve and would set me up well for the remainder of my road racing season.
Training is still consistent and going well. Officially logged my first two weeks over 90 miles at altitude, which is certainly exciting!
Still confident about my fitness right now, and know that will racing will come around. Last night in Sedona we did a workout consisting of 2x 2.2 mile hill climbs at 5:50 pace, followed by 4 sets of 3 200's with 200 rest working down from 32 seconds to 29 (Sedona is still at about 5000 ft). I hit everything dead on and felt very strong , so its coming. Just need some patience (not always my strong suit).
Booked my tickets home to PA for the holiday season yesterday! So for all my peeps in the keystone state, can't wait to see you all and share some good times! (maybe a redux of dec. 23rd of last year, without being punched by a panda).
At the tail end of my journey home I will compete in the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run in Central Park NYC on New Years Eve, my first time racing in the big apple. That's going to be an epic run, have heard its one of the coolest out there.
Thats all for now, Take care and thanks for the support! Love you all.
Nick: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner.
The Phoenix 10k, was another not stellar result, but, this is a result I learned from for sure. I ran 31:33 for 7th place, which was about a minute off of my goal time. Results here --> http://www.ceptiming.com/2012/misc402/12Phoenix10K-10k-All.txt
2 things that I learned:
1: 4:42 pace feels too easy when you're coming down from 7000 feet, but it catches up with you VERY quickly. 2: With my work being almost entirely aerobic, I had some difficulty walking the anaerobic red line, and found myself crossing over very easily.
2(a): With that said, I feel like I can hold 5-5:10 pace for a good amount of time, but just am not at the point where I can hold a faster pace for any period longer than a mile or two. But that will come with time and more preparation, that just hasn't been the focus in this first phase of my altitude training.
So, overall, while disappointed with the finish, it definitely could have been worse, and I did in fact learn something. Which is always good.
Next race coming up is the Dana Point Turkey Trot 10k, on Thanksgiving day. I WILL hold back and run more conservatively early on, and will hope to negative split and run around 30:30. That would be a good improvement curve and would set me up well for the remainder of my road racing season.
Training is still consistent and going well. Officially logged my first two weeks over 90 miles at altitude, which is certainly exciting!
Still confident about my fitness right now, and know that will racing will come around. Last night in Sedona we did a workout consisting of 2x 2.2 mile hill climbs at 5:50 pace, followed by 4 sets of 3 200's with 200 rest working down from 32 seconds to 29 (Sedona is still at about 5000 ft). I hit everything dead on and felt very strong , so its coming. Just need some patience (not always my strong suit).
Booked my tickets home to PA for the holiday season yesterday! So for all my peeps in the keystone state, can't wait to see you all and share some good times! (maybe a redux of dec. 23rd of last year, without being punched by a panda).
At the tail end of my journey home I will compete in the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run in Central Park NYC on New Years Eve, my first time racing in the big apple. That's going to be an epic run, have heard its one of the coolest out there.
Thats all for now, Take care and thanks for the support! Love you all.
Nick: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
3-2-1 Feeling Strong!
I am absolutely pumped to be in full swing of workouts yet again. Today was 3x 3-2-1 fartlek with 2 min. rest between each on a nice grass field. Got to throw on some spikes for the last set which was good. I was in control and feeling strong, not killing myself and visiting bonk city (my name for where you go when you bomb a workout at altitude). My form is also starting to round into shape, my hips are forward, fairy leg practically eliminated, relaxed arm carriage, and forward body.
Blood said that he wouldn't have guessed it was me running by my form. Which is a good thing, cause I was never a pretty runner. Except for that one time that I was the prettiest girl in the PSAC.
I'm getting really pumped for my next race. I can just feel how much more fit I am compared to a month ago, and really can't wait to test it out. But, gotta take it one week and one workout at a time. Got an 8 mile progression run on friday down at 4000 feet, which should be a good indicator of fitness going into this 10k on the 4th.
In other exciting new, I GOT MY FIRST PARKING TICKET. eff. 33 bucks. I solemnly swear to pay it within 15 days so as to prevent any raise in cost or subsequent parking ticket fiascos.
Congrats to the Haven runners for their performances at PSACs this past weekend. Especially Monny for his 2nd PSAC xc title and Dylan Mountain for his all-psac and top freshman performance! Solid work.
21 miles on sunday on the most gorgeous run i've ever experienced. I can't say that i've ever been this pumped to run that far for a long run. Should be good.
BLOOD UPDATE: Ryan is back running almost 40 miles a week and is slowly getting there. He was allowed to do a 3 mile hill climb on Friday and in true Blood form, he crushed it. He said it was easy. Hoping for maybe a turkey day 5k as his first race. Cross your fingers, we all want to see this guy back in crusher form.
Thanks again for the support, we miss all our family and friends from back east!
Much Love,
Nick: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner
Blood said that he wouldn't have guessed it was me running by my form. Which is a good thing, cause I was never a pretty runner. Except for that one time that I was the prettiest girl in the PSAC.
I'm getting really pumped for my next race. I can just feel how much more fit I am compared to a month ago, and really can't wait to test it out. But, gotta take it one week and one workout at a time. Got an 8 mile progression run on friday down at 4000 feet, which should be a good indicator of fitness going into this 10k on the 4th.
In other exciting new, I GOT MY FIRST PARKING TICKET. eff. 33 bucks. I solemnly swear to pay it within 15 days so as to prevent any raise in cost or subsequent parking ticket fiascos.
Congrats to the Haven runners for their performances at PSACs this past weekend. Especially Monny for his 2nd PSAC xc title and Dylan Mountain for his all-psac and top freshman performance! Solid work.
21 miles on sunday on the most gorgeous run i've ever experienced. I can't say that i've ever been this pumped to run that far for a long run. Should be good.
BLOOD UPDATE: Ryan is back running almost 40 miles a week and is slowly getting there. He was allowed to do a 3 mile hill climb on Friday and in true Blood form, he crushed it. He said it was easy. Hoping for maybe a turkey day 5k as his first race. Cross your fingers, we all want to see this guy back in crusher form.
Thanks again for the support, we miss all our family and friends from back east!
Much Love,
Nick: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner
Saturday, October 20, 2012
So its been awhile...
Well, it's been quite some time since I've put up any kind of post at all. Sorry about that. Lots of exciting things going on! By that I mean, working 45 hours a week, and running some solid mileage.
On the running end of things, things are starting to go pretty well. I'm definitely starting to feel much fitter than I have in a long time. Workouts are in full swing, and mileage has topped out around 90. Pretty solid for a sea level boy at 7000 feet. Recently I was allowed to progress at the end of a long run and get a little aggressive, which felt good. Ran 5:33, 5:24, 5:16, 5:20, at the end of a 16 miler, with the last mile after that 5:20 up a hill. Good things are certainly a-coming. Even my speed feels good, all we've been pretty much doing has been hill oriented, which has fantastic for the ole' speed. Yesterday completed a 5 mile hill climb from 7500 feet up to 9500 feet. I kinda got a little weak at the end, where I should have been aggressive. But I'm learning.
Ryan Blood is starting to come around, his mileage is slowly slowly climbing, but he's feeling better, and even did 3 miles of the hill climb. He's turned into a coffee shop master, and knows how to make drinks like a boss.
Along with my running re-education at altitude, I'm also getting an education on what the pro scene is like. Sometimes it seems a little disheartening, because overall, doping seems to be much more widespread than originally thought. Maybe when I was in college or high school I was purposely naive of what really goes on, or maybe i just honestly believed doping wasn't as prevalent. Maybe I'm wrong, but to me, whether you're taking EPO or in the gray area of being ahead of the scientific curve, you're in the wrong. One of the reasons I love running, and have kept at it for so long is that its all about the pure gutsy effort and getting the best out of yourself. And when I say pure, I mean that its YOU doing the running, you're body, without performance enhancers. I don't know, maybe i'm exaggerating, maybe its not as bad as I think. But its certainly not good. How can a guy like me, even after working my ass off, expect to beat a guy whos able to run 3 workouts a week while doing high intensity mileage, because he's recovering twice as fast? Its just frustrating. I will NEVER dope. I will get the best out of myself, doing it the right way, and will surround myself with people who are doing the same thing.
Anyways, enough of the rant. Racing continues on 11/4 at the PHX 10k, hoping to make a big jump compared to my last effort.
Nick Hilton: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner
On the running end of things, things are starting to go pretty well. I'm definitely starting to feel much fitter than I have in a long time. Workouts are in full swing, and mileage has topped out around 90. Pretty solid for a sea level boy at 7000 feet. Recently I was allowed to progress at the end of a long run and get a little aggressive, which felt good. Ran 5:33, 5:24, 5:16, 5:20, at the end of a 16 miler, with the last mile after that 5:20 up a hill. Good things are certainly a-coming. Even my speed feels good, all we've been pretty much doing has been hill oriented, which has fantastic for the ole' speed. Yesterday completed a 5 mile hill climb from 7500 feet up to 9500 feet. I kinda got a little weak at the end, where I should have been aggressive. But I'm learning.
Ryan Blood is starting to come around, his mileage is slowly slowly climbing, but he's feeling better, and even did 3 miles of the hill climb. He's turned into a coffee shop master, and knows how to make drinks like a boss.
Along with my running re-education at altitude, I'm also getting an education on what the pro scene is like. Sometimes it seems a little disheartening, because overall, doping seems to be much more widespread than originally thought. Maybe when I was in college or high school I was purposely naive of what really goes on, or maybe i just honestly believed doping wasn't as prevalent. Maybe I'm wrong, but to me, whether you're taking EPO or in the gray area of being ahead of the scientific curve, you're in the wrong. One of the reasons I love running, and have kept at it for so long is that its all about the pure gutsy effort and getting the best out of yourself. And when I say pure, I mean that its YOU doing the running, you're body, without performance enhancers. I don't know, maybe i'm exaggerating, maybe its not as bad as I think. But its certainly not good. How can a guy like me, even after working my ass off, expect to beat a guy whos able to run 3 workouts a week while doing high intensity mileage, because he's recovering twice as fast? Its just frustrating. I will NEVER dope. I will get the best out of myself, doing it the right way, and will surround myself with people who are doing the same thing.
Anyways, enough of the rant. Racing continues on 11/4 at the PHX 10k, hoping to make a big jump compared to my last effort.
Nick Hilton: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Just a-rollin' here in Flag
Nothing too exciting to post here. Haven't been involved in any police shootouts, no parking tickets (yet), haven't ridden any elk, or even climbed any mountains recently. I did see a tarantula though, only a baby but the thing was freaking huge. Just in the grind of training my butt off, and working my butt off to try and make that dough.
Training has been going very well, just trying to gain some strength and power, while building up my mileage. Running much slower than I did at sea level, but just working on recovering, feeling good, and getting strong. Next race comes 11/4 at the Phoenix 10k, where I'm hoping to vastly improve compared to the results from the xc race last week.
Blood update: The man is well on the road to recovery and becoming a crusher once again. He's running everyday, slow and short. But hey, time on your feet is time on your feet. He's working on breaking up scar tissue and being able to be pain free once again. Blood will be back in no time to tear it up, have no fear. I certainly don't.
Our big goal for the fall is USA Club XC Nationals. We've got a solid team down here that could do some damage if we can all stay healthy and get the work in.
Two friends and teammates, Matt Llano (who is also a housemate) and Julian De Rubeira, are right now on their way to Japan to race in an Ekiden (sort of a road race relay) as members of one of the teams representing the United States. Best of luck to them, as I'm sure they'll tear it up.
Nothing else to report, we'll just keep on keeping on.
The Moderately Talented Distance Runner: Nick Hilton
Training has been going very well, just trying to gain some strength and power, while building up my mileage. Running much slower than I did at sea level, but just working on recovering, feeling good, and getting strong. Next race comes 11/4 at the Phoenix 10k, where I'm hoping to vastly improve compared to the results from the xc race last week.
Blood update: The man is well on the road to recovery and becoming a crusher once again. He's running everyday, slow and short. But hey, time on your feet is time on your feet. He's working on breaking up scar tissue and being able to be pain free once again. Blood will be back in no time to tear it up, have no fear. I certainly don't.
Our big goal for the fall is USA Club XC Nationals. We've got a solid team down here that could do some damage if we can all stay healthy and get the work in.
Two friends and teammates, Matt Llano (who is also a housemate) and Julian De Rubeira, are right now on their way to Japan to race in an Ekiden (sort of a road race relay) as members of one of the teams representing the United States. Best of luck to them, as I'm sure they'll tear it up.
Nothing else to report, we'll just keep on keeping on.
The Moderately Talented Distance Runner: Nick Hilton
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Its a start...
So yesterdays race did not go well. 15:35 is not at all the performance I was looking for, but I guess everyone needs to start somewhere. Results posted here -->http://az.milesplit.com/meets/116609/results/216061
I've been doing well with my diet, but had a very bad stomach day yesterday, resulting in some tossing of the cookies prior to hitting the sack that night. So obviously I need to sort out some race day diet issues. Good thing I live with a nutritionist, so hopefully we can get these things hammered out. Besides the stomach, my legs felt pretty good, as did my breathing.
Definitely weird to be at sea level again, and able to take a deep breaths. The next race isn't for a month, so with some workouts and some diet experimentation, there will be improvements, and I will run better. Obviously I'm a bit disappointed, but I know that good things will come and that I need to be patient and trust my training.
My teammate Julian ran awesome, crushing the field in 14:40, in his final tune up for the Ekiden race in Japan, so thats a positive for sure.
So for now, its back to the mountain and back to the trails to get fit. Breaking 30:30 will happen in a month. Of that much I'm sure.
Club XC is in 10 weeks.
Nick Hilton: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner
I've been doing well with my diet, but had a very bad stomach day yesterday, resulting in some tossing of the cookies prior to hitting the sack that night. So obviously I need to sort out some race day diet issues. Good thing I live with a nutritionist, so hopefully we can get these things hammered out. Besides the stomach, my legs felt pretty good, as did my breathing.
Definitely weird to be at sea level again, and able to take a deep breaths. The next race isn't for a month, so with some workouts and some diet experimentation, there will be improvements, and I will run better. Obviously I'm a bit disappointed, but I know that good things will come and that I need to be patient and trust my training.
My teammate Julian ran awesome, crushing the field in 14:40, in his final tune up for the Ekiden race in Japan, so thats a positive for sure.
So for now, its back to the mountain and back to the trails to get fit. Breaking 30:30 will happen in a month. Of that much I'm sure.
Club XC is in 10 weeks.
Nick Hilton: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Just another tuesday.
Tuesday:
7:00 AM- Wake Up
7:15 AM- Facebook and Oatmeal
7:30 AM- Shower
8:30 AM- Massage
9:45 AM- Grocery Shopping (Mans' gotta eat!)
11:00 AM- Coffee and Peanut Butter Toast
12 Noon- Run
1:00 PM- Smoothie
1:15 PM- Foundation and Core
1:30 PM- Shower
2:00-6:00 PM- Work (getting those bills)
6:15 PM- Run
7:00 PM- Power Lifting
8:00 PM- Dinner
9:00 PM- Relax
10:00 PM- Sleep
and do it all over again the next day, with some minor revisions.
Nick Hilton: Moderately Talented Distance Runner
PS: First race on friday night. Phoenix Community 5k XC Race.
7:00 AM- Wake Up
7:15 AM- Facebook and Oatmeal
7:30 AM- Shower
8:30 AM- Massage
9:45 AM- Grocery Shopping (Mans' gotta eat!)
11:00 AM- Coffee and Peanut Butter Toast
12 Noon- Run
1:00 PM- Smoothie
1:15 PM- Foundation and Core
1:30 PM- Shower
2:00-6:00 PM- Work (getting those bills)
6:15 PM- Run
7:00 PM- Power Lifting
8:00 PM- Dinner
9:00 PM- Relax
10:00 PM- Sleep
and do it all over again the next day, with some minor revisions.
Nick Hilton: Moderately Talented Distance Runner
PS: First race on friday night. Phoenix Community 5k XC Race.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Getting To Work.
The title says it all. We're getting to work here in Flagstaff, both on the roads and on the job scene. The fine dining scene, I found out, suits me pretty well, and its a pretty solid job on the whole. Mr. Blood made his debut at the Kickstand Kafe today, making drinks like a boss. After a few trips down to Phoenix, Ryan is well on the way to getting back running. The legendary Dr. John Ball will get him on the roads in no time.
On my end, the running is good. Back into my first full week since being in flag has been fantastic-although going up hill still sucks, literally, i suck a lot of air- and I'm starting to feel good and confident about the upcoming training. Through the core, lifting, running at altitude, and foundation work, I wholeheartedly believe that we'll be ready to rock and roll come race time in a few months.
Our fearless leader Ryan Mulcahey has been instilling us with a sense of team unity and confidence. As the 5 of us that make up our group are all in this together, we're all in the hunt of getting the best out of ourselves while we can. There's a synergy between everybody and a lot of good vibes, which hopefully will lead to some great things down the road.
I'm chomping at the bit to start to run fast, but am keeping things easy, as per instruction from Ryan M.
Other highlights of recent events includes some leisure time spent in the Oak Creek Canyon (pictures to come soon) with 2 new friends and one old (all are technically new to blood) who invited us to do some swimming, bouldering, and cliff jumping. Good times were had by all.
Moving to Flagstaff, so far, has proven to be an excellent decision, and I'm very confident more good things are a-coming.
Thanks for all the support, and thanks to everyone who happens to be reading this! 600 views?! Thats nuts. You guys are awesome.
We're gonna make some waves for all of you.
Nick Hilton: Moderately Talented Distance Runner
PS- For all who are wondering about the cross-country cat Kiwi (loving that alliteration), she is doing fantastic and has gotten into the habit of sleeping all day, and either treating me as a steeple barrier or jumping on my head all night.
On my end, the running is good. Back into my first full week since being in flag has been fantastic-although going up hill still sucks, literally, i suck a lot of air- and I'm starting to feel good and confident about the upcoming training. Through the core, lifting, running at altitude, and foundation work, I wholeheartedly believe that we'll be ready to rock and roll come race time in a few months.
Our fearless leader Ryan Mulcahey has been instilling us with a sense of team unity and confidence. As the 5 of us that make up our group are all in this together, we're all in the hunt of getting the best out of ourselves while we can. There's a synergy between everybody and a lot of good vibes, which hopefully will lead to some great things down the road.
I'm chomping at the bit to start to run fast, but am keeping things easy, as per instruction from Ryan M.
Other highlights of recent events includes some leisure time spent in the Oak Creek Canyon (pictures to come soon) with 2 new friends and one old (all are technically new to blood) who invited us to do some swimming, bouldering, and cliff jumping. Good times were had by all.
Moving to Flagstaff, so far, has proven to be an excellent decision, and I'm very confident more good things are a-coming.
Thanks for all the support, and thanks to everyone who happens to be reading this! 600 views?! Thats nuts. You guys are awesome.
We're gonna make some waves for all of you.
Nick Hilton: Moderately Talented Distance Runner
PS- For all who are wondering about the cross-country cat Kiwi (loving that alliteration), she is doing fantastic and has gotten into the habit of sleeping all day, and either treating me as a steeple barrier or jumping on my head all night.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Pictures...Can you find the goofy blood pic?
Pictures from todays hike, don't worry there won't be too many of my words.
A Damn Good Day
What a freaking thursday! Blood and I got the itch to hike, and since we're not totally acclimatized yet we decided to start our summit attacking with the relatively mild Mt. Elden, which tops out at 9300 feet. And a great hike it was. The panoramas from even halfway up were spectacular, as was the natural beauty of the mountain and the aspen trees. About 3/4 of the way up we decided to stop at this rock which offered a great view and get some pictures. As I was standing on this rock I saw what seemed like an oddly placed rock over a little hole. I picked it up and voila! We had found a piece from the global gps game called geocaching. To find out what geocaching is, check out this link --> www.geocaching.com, so we signed the little paper in the jar, and returned it to its locale for another to find.
We continued our hike into the clouds, as it was a bit of an overcast day, where it got a bit chilly. But trucked onto the summit about 9300 feet above sea level. Ironically enough, I get better cell service on top of the freaking mountain than I do in the house where I'm living. Figures. We rested at the top a bit, got super wet, made some phonecalls (found out that I got a job, Oh Yeah!), ate some food, than headed back down.
As we started our descent we noticed that the clouds were definitely lower than they had been on the way up. Which meant getting a good deal wetter on the hike down. Ok for me because I happened to remember my waterproof jacket, but Mr. Crybaby Blood didn't, and reminded me on the whole way down how damp and cold he was.
We kept our minds off the rain, though, by having good conversation which had quite the interesting flow. This is how it went: Religon-->Aliens-->Quantum Physics-->Time Travel--> Evolution-->Sharks-->Wildlife Conservation-->Wolves-->Liam Neeson being a badass. Makes sense right?
After some homemade mashed potato bowls, we're calling it a day. And what a day it was.
Nick Hilton: Moderately Talented Distance Runner
P.S. Never Forget. Saying prayers for those lost, and those still fighting.
We continued our hike into the clouds, as it was a bit of an overcast day, where it got a bit chilly. But trucked onto the summit about 9300 feet above sea level. Ironically enough, I get better cell service on top of the freaking mountain than I do in the house where I'm living. Figures. We rested at the top a bit, got super wet, made some phonecalls (found out that I got a job, Oh Yeah!), ate some food, than headed back down.As we started our descent we noticed that the clouds were definitely lower than they had been on the way up. Which meant getting a good deal wetter on the hike down. Ok for me because I happened to remember my waterproof jacket, but Mr. Crybaby Blood didn't, and reminded me on the whole way down how damp and cold he was.
We kept our minds off the rain, though, by having good conversation which had quite the interesting flow. This is how it went: Religon-->Aliens-->Quantum Physics-->Time Travel--> Evolution-->Sharks-->Wildlife Conservation-->Wolves-->Liam Neeson being a badass. Makes sense right?
After some homemade mashed potato bowls, we're calling it a day. And what a day it was.
Nick Hilton: Moderately Talented Distance Runner
P.S. Never Forget. Saying prayers for those lost, and those still fighting.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Getting started here in Flag
Today was yet another exciting day in Flagstaff for myself (they all seem exciting now, which I'm sure will change sometime in the future, but hey I'll enjoy the excitement and newness while I can!). Had coffee with an old friend of mine from back in the ol' berks county xc days, Rachel! It was fantastic to catch up, and it's absolutely nuts that there are 2 people from the same area who just ended up in the same city over 2,000 miles away from home. To add to the whole "Its a small world after all theme" we even went to preschool together. Crazy shit, I know.
A bike ride seemed like the best thing to do next, and proceeded in getting moderately lost on the trails of flagstaff (Which happened to be very well marked at the beginning, but not so well in the middle). But found my way home eventually, without experiencing hypothermia, starvation, or the need to defecate in the forest, big win for me.
The conclusion of this day was a lifting session/meeting with fellow teammates Matt, Julien, Blood, and with our "advisor" (never call him coach) Ryan Mulcahey. Definitely was an incredibly positive session, learned some new core techniques. Principally the "Foundation" core work, check out the website here--> http://foundationtraining.com/home which seems to be addressing a lot of weaknesses that I, and the other runners, have. We'll see how we progress, but really liking the theory and what the founder has to say.
Also discussed some goals and some things to shoot for in the future, look to hopefully see us at Club XC Nationals this winter. And watch for us on the track at some of those big fun western meets (Stanford, Mt SAC, etc..). And eventually, we hope to be in Europe this summer competing on the international level. We're hoping to develop my 6'3 self into a big F**king machine, which, to be honest, I can't wait for.
Checking out for the evening.
Nick Hilton: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner
 |
| Berks County Reunion |
The conclusion of this day was a lifting session/meeting with fellow teammates Matt, Julien, Blood, and with our "advisor" (never call him coach) Ryan Mulcahey. Definitely was an incredibly positive session, learned some new core techniques. Principally the "Foundation" core work, check out the website here--> http://foundationtraining.com/home which seems to be addressing a lot of weaknesses that I, and the other runners, have. We'll see how we progress, but really liking the theory and what the founder has to say.
Also discussed some goals and some things to shoot for in the future, look to hopefully see us at Club XC Nationals this winter. And watch for us on the track at some of those big fun western meets (Stanford, Mt SAC, etc..). And eventually, we hope to be in Europe this summer competing on the international level. We're hoping to develop my 6'3 self into a big F**king machine, which, to be honest, I can't wait for.
Checking out for the evening.
Nick Hilton: The Moderately Talented Distance Runner
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Welcome! The last few weeks in a nutshell.
Well, here it is. My opening blog post to the aptly titled "Moderately Talented Distance Runner" (Lock Haven teammates will be sure to appreciate this title). I'm sure all 3 people who read this already know who I am, but in case someone happens to stumble upon it I shall introduce myself. My name is Nick Hilton, I am a runner-specifically a steeplechaser- formerly of Lock Haven University and Exeter Township Senior High School. After working a 7 month stint at the West Reading store A Running Start I have moved to Flagstaff, AZ to pursue a career as a runner. Now, someone might ask: "Why Nick, since you're admittedly 'Moderately Talented' have you decided to pursue a career in running?" My answer is simple. I believe that I have the right mix of determination, tenacity, toughness, and just enough talent to make it. It is a dream that I have wanted to pursue since I first took up the sport, and it is a dream that I am absolutely determined to make happen. Anyways, I digress, moving on.
The last few weeks have been an absolute whirlwind. Only a week ago, as a part of the life back on track relay, I helped to break the 1000 mile relay world record, an event which helped raise over 20,000 dollars for the Kevin Dare Foundation (The foundation is still taking contributions, if interested visit www.lifebackontrack.com) . Finishing the relay was an incredible high, and probably the most remarkable experience of my life thus far. And, only a few short days after, I was to depart with my good friend and comrade Ryan Blood (and my cat, Kiwi) for Flagstaff Arizona, where I am now, to pursue my dream.
The trip out here was long (almost 38 hours), but exciting. Day one we drove from Harrisburg, PA all the way to Kansas City, a trip of over 1000 miles and 17 hours of driving. Needless to say, Kiwi was not too happy about the driving, and she let me know for about the first 4 hours of the trip. Neither was she happy about being gently placed in my backpack in order to sneak her into a hotel for the night.
After some rest, we trekked across the longest state in the world (false) Kansas and reached our overnight stop in Colorado Springs. After a quick tour of the incredible Garden of the Gods we chowed down on some fish tacos made by former Adams State standout, and friend of Blood's, Matt Levassiur. Kiwi had a run in with a one eyed cat named lucy, who wasn't too fond of Kiwi, who quickly shacked up behind a couch for the night, safe from the clutches of the one eyed cat. After a good nights sleep (for me and blood at least) we hit the road once more through the majestic rockies and the deserts of New Mexico and Arizona.
After 9 hours of driving, we were able to spot the San Francisco Peaks in the distance and got real excited. The first night in Flagstaff was a whirlwind of meeting people, eating food, and having a few adult beverages. We are thankful to people like Alicia Shay and Ryan Mulcahy who have been fantastic to us on our arrival and with getting us set up and ready to roll.
Welp, that's about it for this one. I promise that this will be the longest post, as I had to squeeze several weeks worth of excitement into one.
Nick Hilton: Moderately Talented Distance Runner.
The last few weeks have been an absolute whirlwind. Only a week ago, as a part of the life back on track relay, I helped to break the 1000 mile relay world record, an event which helped raise over 20,000 dollars for the Kevin Dare Foundation (The foundation is still taking contributions, if interested visit www.lifebackontrack.com) . Finishing the relay was an incredible high, and probably the most remarkable experience of my life thus far. And, only a few short days after, I was to depart with my good friend and comrade Ryan Blood (and my cat, Kiwi) for Flagstaff Arizona, where I am now, to pursue my dream.
The trip out here was long (almost 38 hours), but exciting. Day one we drove from Harrisburg, PA all the way to Kansas City, a trip of over 1000 miles and 17 hours of driving. Needless to say, Kiwi was not too happy about the driving, and she let me know for about the first 4 hours of the trip. Neither was she happy about being gently placed in my backpack in order to sneak her into a hotel for the night.
After some rest, we trekked across the longest state in the world (false) Kansas and reached our overnight stop in Colorado Springs. After a quick tour of the incredible Garden of the Gods we chowed down on some fish tacos made by former Adams State standout, and friend of Blood's, Matt Levassiur. Kiwi had a run in with a one eyed cat named lucy, who wasn't too fond of Kiwi, who quickly shacked up behind a couch for the night, safe from the clutches of the one eyed cat. After a good nights sleep (for me and blood at least) we hit the road once more through the majestic rockies and the deserts of New Mexico and Arizona.After 9 hours of driving, we were able to spot the San Francisco Peaks in the distance and got real excited. The first night in Flagstaff was a whirlwind of meeting people, eating food, and having a few adult beverages. We are thankful to people like Alicia Shay and Ryan Mulcahy who have been fantastic to us on our arrival and with getting us set up and ready to roll.
Welp, that's about it for this one. I promise that this will be the longest post, as I had to squeeze several weeks worth of excitement into one.
Nick Hilton: Moderately Talented Distance Runner.
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