Martin Parnell Finish the Race Attitude

Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #031
• Date: Monday March 1st  2010
• Course: Cochrane West Point marathon
• Run time: 8hr 18min 28sec 
• Aver. Heart Rate: 81 BPM
• Temperature C: -10C
• Distance covered to date: 1308.2km (812.2m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Cheyenne, Wyoming, USA
• Total number of runners: 10

Albert Einstien said that the denfinition of insanity was "doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result". My repetitive strain injury, of the muscle next to my shin, had been caused by overuse (30 marathons in 41 days). So, if I was to go back out, something had to change. I decided to walk the first marathon and see how things would hold together. I used walking poles to try and take some of the pressure off the muscle. I changed shoes. I had been using several old pairs and the folks at Impact Magazine gave me three new pairs to use (thank you).

I switched routes. The Cochrane Foothills Marathon course is beautiful but extremely hilly. Serge, at Cochrane Physio, had identified an inflexibility in my left ankle that could be causing a pressure point on the muscle in question, when climbing hills. The Cochrane West Point Marathon course, on the other hand, is along the Bow River and relatively flat. The outcome: I made it around in 8hrs 18mins. The shin feels pretty good, it twinged around the 30km mark but didn't deteriorate. After the marathon, I did the ice bath / hot tub routine and that helped. So, time for a good night's sleep and see what tomorrow brings.

Martin's play list

Neil Young - Long May You Run
Vancouver Olymipics Closing Ceremony

Quote of the Day

"Good judgment is the result of experience, experience is the result of bad judgment."

Mark Twain

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #032
• Date: Tuesday March 2nd  2010
• Course: Cochrane West Point marathon
• Run time: 8hr 18min 04sec 
• Aver. Heart Rate: 96 BPM
• Temperature C: -8C
• Distance covered to date: 1350.4km (838.4m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Reno, Nevada, USA
• Total number of runners: 1

The shin felt good this morning and I was keen to see how it would stand up to another "Walking Marathon". I find that I have to add a couple of extra layers for  walking versus running. I'm just not generating the same body heat and my feet and hands have been cold. The route is 880m along the edge of the Bow River and 880m back. In the early morning there's a single goose that patrols up and down the river, honking as it flies along. In the afternoon, there's a pair of geese which sit on an ice shelf on the other side of the river. A couple of times, walkers with dogs have passed them, but they don't back off, they just stand tall and honk. In the late afternoon, a follicley-challenged eagle (politically correct term) hovered over the river and made a couple of dives.

Meanwhile, in a town not 1,500km from Cochrane, Avatar "Marathon Martin" has said goodbye to his new friends in Portage la Prairie in Manitoba. He's had a wonderful time and has spent 2 1/2 weeks at the Little House on the Portage la Prairie B&B. During his stay, he visited the world's largest Coca-Cola can and the  potato processing plants for McCain Foods and Simplot, which provide french fries for McDonalds, Wendy's and various other restaurant chains. His next stop, Winnipeg.

Llama Facts (This is no Joke)

Llamas make very good pack animals. They can carry 25-30% of their body weight and travel up to 32 km each day. They are very sure-footed on all types of terrain.

Research Assistant Level II Karen

Quote of the Day

"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall"

Confucius

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #033
• Date: Wednesday March 3rd  2010
• Course: Cochrane West Point marathon
• Run time: 8hr 8min 40sec 
• Aver. Heart Rate: 108 BPM
• Temperature C: -7C
• Distance covered to date: 1392.6km (864.6m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Grand Junction, Colorado, USA
• Total number of runners: 2

Another good-looking day and a 7.30am start, with a beautiful sunrise. The lonesome goose did it's dawn patrol just after 8.00am. A couple of laps up and down the river, then off to where lonesome geese go. Mid-morning I was joined by Walker Lois. She lives just down the road from me and has been in her present residence for about a year. She said that she had read about me and thought that my marathon target was too aggresive as I wasn't a "spring chicken".........ok. After that, I thought I should have told her that, at my age, I couldn't remember the marathon I did the day before, so every marathon seemed like the first. Later on, I was joined by CBC Radio Reporter Judy and we had a good old chat. My friend Andrew joined me towards the end of the day. He's been injured and is now getting back to running.

Yesterday, I received a somewhat disturbing email. It was from Dr. Randolph Randolph (see Feb blogs: Dr Randolph Randolph, Pushmi-Pullyu and Burning down the house) who is now operating from a research facility in the Himilayas, just north of Katmandu. It said "My Dear Martin, I have been following your progress closely and feel that all the advice you've been getting on your injury is nonsense. You know in your heart that there is only one solution: muscle-splicing. After extensive investigation there is only one animal that meets your needs and you've probably guessed which it is. Yes, the Llama. I will send you a two page pdf. of instructions. Take this to any qualified doctor, veterinarian or seamstress. My friends in Cochrane will continue to keep me informed of your progress. Yours in perpetuity, Dr. RR". Very strange!

Llama Facts (This is no Joke)

Llamas only have teeth on the front bottom. The top is a soft, rubbery palate. They do have molars on the top and bottom in the back, to chew their food.

Research Assistant Level II Karen

Quote of the Day

"Whether you believe you can or believe you can't, you're probably right."

Henry Ford

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #034
• Date: Thurssday March 4th  2010
• Course: Morley Community School
• Run time: 7hr 57min 13sec 
• Aver. Heart Rate: 78 BPM
• Temperature C: -10C
• Distance covered to date: 1434.8km (890.8m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Denver, Colorado, USA
• Total number of runners: 60

These walking marathons take a long time. Normally when I go to a school I can complete the marathon with-in the school day, 9.00am to 3.00pm, but not now. This morning I headed out at 6.30am, knocked off  9kms then jumped in the car and headed 35km west to Morley Community School. Teacher Adrienne had asked me to come and talk to her grade 3 class. She had also asked me to bring a spare Avatar "Marathon Martin" for the Virtual Map. No problem, I have a box of them. I met Teacher Adrienne at 8.45am and explained to her class of twenty grade 3ers what I was doing and why. We all headed out and the walk began.

The one thing about walking is that the kids can join you and they love to chat. To complete my marathon I had to do 50 laps around the school and all through the day, students from various grades joined me. Some would do 1 lap, several others did 5 plus. Grade 3 student, Brody, kept coming back and he must have completed 10 laps. Grade 4 student Ivana, had lots of questions about what I was doing and what food I liked but she also had some other interests. She wanted to know "as a child did I now what I wanted to do when I became an adult?". I told her that I had always wanted to travel, to see other lands and people. Later, a group of Grade 2's came along and we told knock-knock jokes. I met Principal Laura and several other teachers as I went round and round. At 3.15pm the school busses rolled in and the marathon was done. Thanks everyone at Morley Community School for making me so welcome.

Llama Facts (This is no Joke)

Most common noise made by llamas is a hum - both when happy or stressed. It's also how they communicate with their babies.

Research Assistant Level II Karen

Quote of the Day

"When you dance, your purpose is not to get to a certain place on the floor. It's to enjoy each step along the way."

Wayne Dyer

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #035
• Date: Sunday March 7th  2010
• Course: Cochrane West Point Marathon course
• Run time: 7hr 25min 37sec 
• Aver. Heart Rate: 86 BPM
• Temperature C: -6C
• Distance covered to date: 1477.0km (917.0m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Dryden, Ontario, Canada
• Total number of runners: 8

Another beautiful day in the Foothills of the Rockies, clear skies but nippy. Sue started out with me at 7.30am and, as always, we had to bundle up. I'm suprised how cold I get at -5C to -10C when I'm walking. If I was running I'd pop on a couple layers on top and some running tights but when I walk I've got five layers on top, crazy. Also my hands and feet are freezing. Even when I run in -30C my feet were fine but now it takes me ages to get them warm. I guess I'm just not generating much heat. Bring on the +0C weather. The shin's feeling better and better but I'm not going to start running until all the muscle pain has gone. I figure I'll walk this week and then start a walk-run program to get back up to where I was. I've started looking at different routes, I won't be running the Cochrane Foothills Marathon course for a while, too hilly. Tomorrow I'm off into to Calgary to walk the Bow River.

Meanwhile, 1477km to the East of Calgary, Avatar "Marathon Martin" left Winnipeg this morning. His departure was photographed by a local reporter and the picture is posted on my Flickr gallary on the MQ 250 Home page. He made good progress last week and should be in Ontario by Wednesday. People have said to me "Martin those special effects you do with "the Martins" and Avatar "Marathon Martin" are brilliant, and must have cost millions!!" Surpisingly, no. The Zoo Animal set cost $8.50, the toy RX8 $4.99 and the laminated Marathon Martin $0.22. In total $13.71. I will have to make a new laminated Marathon Martin as he's getting a little curly around the edges.

Llama Facts (This is no Joke)

Llamas have two-toed feet with a leathery pad on the underside. They have a curved toe nail sticking out the end of each toe.

Research Assistant Level II Karen

Quote of the Day

"Jogging is very beneficial.  It's good for your legs and your feet.  It's also very good for the ground.  It makes it feel needed."

Charles Schulz, Peanuts

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #036
• Date: Monday March 8th  2010
• Course: Calgary Bow River Pathways Marathon course
• Run time: 7hr 53min 08sec 
• Aver. Heart Rate: 78 BPM
• Temperature C: -2C
• Distance covered to date: 1519.2km (943.2m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Sacramento, California, USA
• Race in the World today: 100km Del Sahara, Tunisia
• Total number of runners: 1

It was time to head to the Big City. I had been walking the Cochrane West Point Marathon course (880m one way) for several days now and, truth be told, it was getting a bit repetative. Runner Wayne had suggested heading into Calgary and Runner Leslie said to park at Shouldice Aquatic Centre. From there, I could follow the pathway system East along the Bow River and travel through the centre of the city. I arrived at the pool at 7.30am and found the pathway signs right away. I'm still finding the mornings cool so I started off at a good pace. The river is full of ice with huge chunks thrusting up at all angles along the bank. After 12km, my first stop was at Eau Claire Market for a coffee and a muffin at the Good Earth cafe.

I hadn't realized but my route took me through the Calgary Zoo. On my left was an 8 foot chain fence with barbed wire at the top. As I rounded a corner I suddenly heard a tremendous roar and there, staring at me, was a Tyrannosaurus Rex (shades of Jurassic Park). Further down I saw a Velociraptor and a Triceraptops. The Zoo has brought in an exhibition of Animatronic Dinosaurs and these things are amazing. I continued east and, at 21.1km, turned around and headed back. I arrived at the pool at 4.30pm and decided to have a chocolate bar. As I was preparing to leave a young fellow came in and said hello. I said hi and asked his dad which school he went to, he said Marion Carson. That was the last marathon I had done before my injury. I said cheerio to Daniel and told him that I would see him on Friday, when I was going back to the school for a cheque presentation. I'll return to Calgary on Wednesday and do some more exploring.

Llama Facts (This Is no Joke)

The yearly wool harvest per llama will produce a grease free fleece weighing three to eight pounds with a fibre length of four to seven inches.

Research Assistant Level II Karen

Quote of the Day

"Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity."

Seneca

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #037
• Date: Tuesday March 9th  2010
• Course: Cochrane Town Marathon course
• Run time: 7hr 16min 35sec 
• Aver. Heart Rate: 81 BPM
• Temperature C: -15C
• Distance covered to date: 1561.4km (969.4m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Little Falls, Minnesota, USA
• Race in the World today: Antartica Marathon
• Total number of runners: 1

This morning I was greeted with a skiff of snow on the ground and the lowest temp I've had for a walking marathon. I've learnt that, to figure out what to wear for walking, just take the temp and double it. At -30C I'd put on two pairs of running tights, five layers on top and a mask. So for walking at -15C that's what I put on. My plan today was to walk the West Point loop for 2 x 2 hour stints, then head into Cochrane to finish off the marathon. I covered 24km in 4hours and felt pretty good. After a light lunch I made my way along the Bow River as far as the path would take me, which is the Spray Lake sports complex. The day warmed up a bit but I thought I'd treat myself and go to Tim Hortons.By the time I'd got there I'd completed 38km and the coffee and donut went down a treat.

I've received a number of questions about the special effects I use on some of my photos. Sam Sung asks " I think the effects you've created with The Martins and Avatar MM are amazing. Did you get help from James Cameron, Peter Jackson or Tim Burton?" Surprisingly, No. The effects I've developed have never been used in film before. They are a combination of Super Lamination / Real 3D and you feel like you're in the picture. It may shock you to learn that a computer was not used in the development of these effects. In the coming months I plan to fine tune these techniques and add the holy grail of special effects, smell-a-rama.

Martin's Play List

• Run to the hills-Iron Maiden Lisa Benz
• Running scared-Roy Orison Annie Locke-Pope
• Walking in the rain-Walker Bothers Sue Carpenter-Parnell
• Walk on-Kellie Coffey Petra Riemer

Quote of the Day

"I'm never going to run this again."

Grete Waitz after winning the first of her nine New York City marathons

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #038
• Date: Wednesday March 10th  2010
• Course: Calgary Bow River Pathways Marathon course
• Run time: 7hr 47min 19sec 
• Aver. Heart Rate: 76 BPM
• Temperature C: -11C
• Distance covered to date: 1603.6km (995.6m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Berkeley, California, USA
• Race in the World today: 100km Del Sahara, Tunisia
• Total number of runners: 1

I wanted to do some more exploring on the Calgary Bow River Pathways system, so I parked at Shouldice Pool and headed west towards the mountains. On Monday, I hadn't been too impressed with the start of the route as I had to go up a side street. However at the top of the road a small path opened up a panoramic view of the river and Bowmont Park. For the next 8km I followed a terrific route through the valley and along the river. There were several wildlife sanctuaries and ecological reserves. The path took me to the base of the Stoney Bridge over pass. I followed the trail for a while, but it took me into a bunch of houses so I doubled back. At the pool I took a break and had a bag of Hickory Sticks (crunchy, munchy, yummy!). Then it was off to Eau Claire market. The day grew warmer and warmer, and by the time I had finished the marathon I was cooking.

A number of people are helping me with the Quest. One of those is Ferg Hawke. Ferg is a Canadian ultramarathoner and has given Dean Karnazes and Scott Jurek, two top USA ultramarathoners, a run for their money at the world's toughest event, Badwater. Check out the DVD of his endeavours "The Distance of Truth", one of my favourite movies bar none. Ferg is also the distributor for CarboPro, a liquid energy product I use in my hydration pack. One bottle of CarboPro 1200 (calories) with my 3 litres of water gets me through a marathon. Ferg and his boss GR, owner of Sportquest, have been good enough to supply me with 250 bottles of the mix plus electrolytes. At a cost of $14.95 per bottle, they're really helping me out, thanks guys, very much appreciated.

Martins Play List

• Keep on Running-Stevie Winwood Sue Carpenter-Parnell
• Running on Faith-Eric Clapton Anne landry
• Walk on by-Susan Ashon Petra Riemer
• Walk Tall-Val Doonican Peter Parnell

Quote of the day

"Seek the very best in everything. If you bow your head, let it be to a great mountain."

New Zealand Maori proverb

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #039
• Date: Thursday March 11th  2010
• Course: Elboya School Marathon
• Run time: 6hr 04min 19sec
• Aver. Heart Rate: 107 BPM
• Temperature C: -6C
• Distance covered to date: 1645.8km (1021.8m)
• Number of steps to date: 2,025,022
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Fresno, California, USA
• Race in the World today: 100km Del Sahara, Tunisia
• Total number of runners: 250

Today, I was running at school number seven, Elboya in Calgary. I was a little concerned that I wouldn't be able to finish the marathon within the school day so I arrived at the school at 7.00am and immediately started walking. The route was a square around the buildings and fields and two sides were flat with a grass verge. I felt good so I started running two sides and walked the other two. At 9.00am I went in and met Teacher Danielle, Vice-Principal Heather and Principlal Linda. Elboya goes from kindergarden to grade 9 and they were all packed in the gym for assembly. I gave a short talk to the students and as I was about to head out, Teacher Danielle and two students Bronwyn and Tedi brought out a giant cheque for $1,510.50 for Marathon Quest 250. I was flabbergasted.

We all headed out and I ran with the young kids around the sports field then joined the older ones for a two km mini-marathon. During the day kids joined me on the run. As we walked along Maxime, Jeremy and Tim gave me $12.25 for the Quest "To help the other kids". At lunch time, three grade 6 girls fed me chewy bars, much appreciated. The run ended at 3.15pm, the end of the school day. Two hundred children were lined up along the front of the school cheering me in and I spent 15mins signing autographs (hang on to those!).

Later, in the staff room, Teacher Danielle told me that the students had had a huge Garage sale and cleaned out the phys ed locker of all its old sports gear. They also had bake sales, pop corn sales, candy and flower grams, and the band students busking at lunchtime playing for donations in the hallway. Another young fellow had come up with the idea of "Change for Change". The students and teachers had been collecting pennies, nickels and dimes since January. Teacher Danielle also said that because MQ 250 was going all year then the students wanted their fundraising to continue all year. I'm very impressed with the next generation!

Martin Play List

• I'm going to run away-Broski Beat Sue Carpenter-Parnell
• Run to him-Bobby Vee Helen Parnell
• Run-Snow Patrol Anne Landry
• I run for life-Melissa Etheridge Michele Broadhurst

Quote of the Day

"Begin at the beginning and go on till you come to the end: then stop."

Lewis Carroll, from Alice in Wonderland

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #040
• Date: Sunday March 14th  2010
• Course: Calgary Bow River Pathways Marathon
• Run time: 5hr 51min 22sec (See Garmin Connect)
• Aver. Heart Rate: 106 BPM
• Temperature C: -10C
• Distance covered to date: 1688.0km (1048.0m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada
• Race in the World today: ABC 7 Sarasota, USA
• Total number of runners: 1

Yesterday was my sister Jan's birthday. This marathon is for you, sending all our love and prayers. On Friday, I made a return visit to Marion Carson School, in Calgary. The last time I was there was on Feb 10th when I ran my last marathon, before the injury to my shin which put me down for 2 1/2 weeks. I wasn't returning to the school for revenge, but to receive a cheque for $1,182.70 presented to Marathon Quest 250 for Right To Play. I entered the gym to a rousing chorus of "If I could walk 500 miles" by the Proclaimers, with the kids clapping along to the beat. Over the past three months, the students had collected change and fundraised with winter games and intermeral sports. Global TV caught all the action and I hope to put the video clip on the Home Page when I get it. Great work kids.

Today I headed into Calgary to run the pathways. It was a bit nippy but the sky was crystal clear. I had decided to try 5 and 5's, walk 5mins then run 5mins. The route along the river to Eau Claire is 10km and at the market I picked up a cup of high test to go (walk 5min works well). In the market, they had cleared the central meeting area of all the chairs and tables. People were asking what was going on. I didn't wait to find out but headed out. I followed the pathway along the Elbow River and ended up back at the market at 1.30pm. I walked into the covered area and the place was full of stationary bikes. It was a spin-a-thon for Cansurvive. I got back to Shouldice Pool in just under 6hrs and the leg felt good.

Dr. Randolph Randolph's Book of Animal Jokes

• Q. What is the difference between a Buffalo and a Bison
• A. You can't wash your hands in a Buffalo!

Quote of the Day

"When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on."

Theodore Roosevelt

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #041
• Date: Monday March 15th  2010
• Course: Vista Heights School
• Run time: 5hr 27min 14sec (See Garmin Connect)
• Aver. Heart Rate: 113 BPM
• Temperature C: -2C
• Distance covered to date: 1730.2km (1074.2m)
• Total number of runners: 120

This morning I drove to Teacher Dan's house and he gave me a lift to Vista Heights School in Calgary. I arrived at 8.00am and Principal Sue told me that assembly was at 9.00am. I decided to get a few laps in before talking to the students, so I changed and headed outside. First light had come up and the huge palying field was clear of snow. We've had great weather the last two weeks and the snow has really taken a beating. It's was great to be running on grass again and, as I rounded a group of trees, there was a huge white.....rabbit. Or was it. It was much larger than a regular rabbit and moved at tremendous speed. I managed to get a photo of it and I've posted it in the Flickr gallery on the Home Page. What do you think? is this the arrival of the Urban WereRabbit?

At 9.00am I chatted to the kids at assembly and we all headed outside. The children formed a line and gave me high 5's as I set off on my marathon. All during the day groups of kids joined me. We ran and discussed many things, including pets, favourite food, number of brothers and sisters they had. One group of grade 4 girls wanted to know if I believed in psychics, that's a tough one. A little kindergarten girl, Tina, came up to me and said "Marathon Martin, I want to give you this for the children". She gave me 2 cents. I said thank you very much and put it in my pouch. I've added it to my schools cash envelope which was $62.80 and is now $62.82.

Martin's Play List

• Where are we Running-Lenny Kravitz Anne Landry
• Keep on Running-Stevie Wonder Petra Riemer
• Run, Run, Run-Joel Plaskeh Lisa Benz
• One last Run-Nickelback Calum Carpenter

Quote of the Day

"Run like hell and get the agony over with."

Clarence DeMar

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #042
• Date: Tuesday March 16th  2010
• Course: Cochrane Town Marathon
• Run time: 6hr 6min 12sec (See Garmin Connect)
• Aver. Heart Rate: 97 BPM
• Temperature C: -3C
• Distance covered to date: 1772.4km (1100.4m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Flagstaff, Arizona, USA
• Total number of runners: 1

On February 22nd, Elaine Kupser, publisher of Impact Magazine, very graciously gave me three pairs of running shoes to help me along the way. I've been very pleased with two of the pairs but one pair has been nothing but trouble. The first time I wore them I got blisters on my two little toes. In the prevoius 30 marathons I had only got one blister and that was my fault. Today, I decided to give them another shot. I started along the Cochrane Red Rock shale pathways and several times my left foot jammed. As I approched 20 km, I felt a blister coming on the big toe of my right foot and I had had enough. I went home and took them off . I don't want to mention the name of the manufacturer but it rhymes with bike, hike, like, pike and mike. Now I don't want to show any disrespect to this company, I've worn many pairs of their runners and have been totally satisified. I just think that these runner had bad karma, we just didn't get on. I'm never going to wear them again but I'm in a quandary as to what to do with them. Sue would like to plant daisies in them, any other thoughts?

Meanwhile, Avatar " Marathon Martin", on his virtual route across Canada, has passed through Kenora, Ontario. While he was there he came across "Husky the Muskie", a 40 foot tall sculpture of a Muskellunge located next to the Trans-Canada Highway. A tourist took a snap of MM and the big fish. You can find it in the Flickr Gallery on the Home Page. This experiance gave Avatar "Marathon Martin" an idea. He's going to visit as many "Big Things" as he can along his virtual route across Canada and back along the northern States. If you know of any "Big Things" that he should visit on his travels then drop us a line.

Dr. Randolph Randolph's Book of Animal Jokes

• Q. Why are Elephants wrinkled?
• A. Have you ever tried to iron one?

Quote of the Day

"Running is the greatest metaphor for life, because you get out of it what you put into it."

Oprah Winfrey

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #043
• Date: Wednesday March 17th  2010
• Course: Calgary Bow River Pathways Marathon
• Run time: 5hr 56min 46sec (See Garmin Connect)
• Aver. Heart Rate: 104 BPM
• Temperature C: -5C
• Distance covered to date: 1814.6km (1126.6m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: WhaleCove, Nunavut, Canada
• Total number of runners: 1

Eddie Izzard is one of my favourite comedians and now is one of my running inspirations. On July 27th 2009 Eddie started off on a four country tour of England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. By the time he arrived back in Trafalger Square in London, on September 15th, he had completed 43 marathons in 51 days. He helped raise over $500,000 for Sport Relief, a group which helps vunerable people in the UK and some of the poorest countries around the world. Eddie is now preparing to participate in his first Ironman Triathlon, as he puts it "I have become fascinated with fitness because there's no point in throwing away all that training". Great stuff.

My 43 marathons have taken me 76 days and it's still only March 17th! Today I headed back into Calgary to tackle the pathways. I wanted to explore northwards, along the Nose Creek paths and see if I could establish an out and back from the Shouldice Pool. The ankle was feeling a little fragile, so I popped a couple of Advil and started tentatively along the paths. The weather's been excellent the last two weeks. The only problem is that it still starts off cool but then quickly warms up. So, after 20 mins, I stripped off the tights and shirt then stowed them away in the back pack. The Nose Creek route worked well and at the 21km mark found a Quailty Inn. I grabbed a bowl of soup and headed on home.

Dr. Randolph Randolph's Book of Animal Jokes

• Q. What do you get when you cross a parrot with a centipede?
• A. Walkie talkie!

Quote of the Day

"If God invented marathons to keep people from doing anything more stupid, the triathlon must have taken Him completely by surprise."

P.Z. Pearce

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #044
• Date: Thurssday March 18th  2010
• Course: Cochrane Town Marathon
• Run time: 6hr 42min 30sec (See Garmin Connect)
• Aver. Heart Rate: 88 BPM
• Temperature C: -6C
• Distance covered to date: 1856.8km (1152.8m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA
• Total number of runners: 1

WARNING !. I'm usually not a Moaning Minnie, but today's blog is going to be a huge whine fest. I had a terrible night's sleep with lots of weird dreams, my throat felt sore and my stomach was churning. I had my usual breakfast of cereal and berries, then a cup of piping hot coffee to cauterize the throat. After clambering into my Arctic ensemble, I was out the door. I realised my mistake almost right away, I was cooking. Back home, off with the tights and top, then out again. By km 16 the clouds had come over and the wind picked up, I was freezing: time for 2nd breakfast and more clothes. My stomach wasn't good so I stayed close to the house. By km 26 it was time for lunch. My motivation was dropping rapidly so I figured I'd better get out and finish this off. The wind was howling and I finished the marathon doing the "Siberian Death March".

Yesterday, I went to see my doctor to go over the results of the monthly blood tests. He told me that my Sodium and Chloride levels were low and that I needed to increase my electrolyte intake. I've become a little lax at popping the tablets during the runs, so I'd better get on it.

Enough of the complaining big baby. It's Thursday evening and time to relax. After todays activities, I had a hot tub to get some heat into these old bones.  Later on I'm going going to put on my Kermit slippers, dressing gown and watch some TV. It's time to catch up on a few episodes of 24. That Jack Bauer, is there nothing that can stop him? Apparently not!

Dr. Randolph Randolph's Book of Animal Jokes

• Q. What is the difference between a flea and a wolf ?
• A. One prowls on the hairy and the other howls on the prairie!

Quote of the Day

"It didn't matter if people thought I was crazy, because whose life is it, theirs or mine?"

Marta Becket, Amargosa Opera House

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This morning Sue and I headed over to meet with Harley Stewart, Vice Principal of Marion Carson school. Harley has shown great enthusiasm and support for this project. This was my third visit to the school. The first was on Feb 10th when I ran a marathon. It was my 30th and the last before an injury put me out of action for 2 1/2 weeks. The next visit was on March 12th when I was presented with a check for $1,182.70 for Right To Play. The students had fund-raised for two months, collecting loose change for the cause.

Today, Harley presented me with a cheque for $5,000 from the Marion Carson Parents Association, incredible. He also told me that because Marathon Quest 250 is a one year endevour then the school intends to raise funds all though 2010, for Right To Play.

I can only say how appreciative I am of these efforts.

Teachers, Parents and Kids helping Kids.

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #045
• Date: Sunday March 21st  2010
• Course: Calgary Bow River Pathsways Marathon
• Run time: 6hr 18min 40sec (See Garmin Connect)
• Aver. Heart Rate: 113 BPM
• Temperature C: 8C
• Distance covered to date: 1899.0km (1179.0m)
• Marathon run today in the World: Rome, Italy
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Albuquerque,NewMexico,USA
• Total number of runners: 1

I decided on Friday that I would not go to Yellowknife for the Rock and Ice 50km snowshoe ultra. My shin's been feeling pretty good but I just couldn't see myself doing that distance, in -30C, with a good chance of a recurring injury. I was pretty disappointed, so to cheer myself up I waited by my computer and 10.01am, Saturday morning, I snagged 2 tickets to see Eddie Izzard when he visits Calgary on May 14th. Maybe we can run a marathon together?

This morning I felt good. My thoat was still a little raspy, but the stomach had settled down. I headed into Calgary and had a great run on the Bow River Pathways. Loads of runners, walkers and bikers out enjoying the spring weather. As I passed the Zoo I could hear the kids yelling as the anamatronic dinosuars roared at them.

Avatar "Marathon Martin" has been making good progress. He recently passed through Dryden, Ontario on his virtual route across Canada. At the Tourist Information Center he came across Max the Moose, the biggest moose in Canada. Some of the key details about Max are below:

• Name: Maximillian Moose
• Nickname: Max
• Height: 18' (5.6 m)
• Weight: 2 tons
• Date of Birth: July 19, 1962
• Place of Birth: A 'Dry Den' in Ontario
• General Appearance: Tall, dark & handsome - the strong, silent type.
• Education: Institute of Moosology, "Herd of his Class"

A picture of Marathon Martin and Max can be seen in the Flickr gallery on the home page.

Dr. Randolph Randolph's Book of Animal Jokes

• Q. What happens when a cat eats a lemon?
• A. It becomes a sour puss!

Quote of the Day

"Finland has produced so many brilliant distance runners because back home it costs $2.50 a gallon for gas."

Esa Tikkannen, 1979

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #046
• Date: Monday March 22nd  2010
• Course: Cochrane Town Marathon
• Run time: 5hr 58min 51sec (See Garmin Connect)
• Aver. Heart Rate: 111 BPM
• Temperature C: -7C
• Distance covered to date: 1941.2km (1205.2m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Los Angeles, California, USA
• Total number of runners: 1

In Cochrane we have two golf courses, The Cochrane Golf club, a 9 hole facility in town and Gleneagles, an 18 hole executive course on the bluffs over looking the Bow River. I've always fancied running the Eagle and today would be the day. I started off at 8.30am. It was a little misty and overcast, excellent. I made my way through town and plodded up Cochrane Hill. I hopped over the fence and started along the path adjacent to the 8th tee. I thought it would be great to do a marathon along the pathways but the vicious climbs and down hills just about did me in. It seems so easy when you're in a electric golf buggy!. I did one loop then headed back to the river, no more golf courses for me.

I've had a number of responses as to what to do with my "bad karma" runners. Below are four that make sense:

• Give them to a charity (should I really pass on "bad karma" shoes, isn't that double bad karma?).
• Make them into flower pots and plant "runner" beans!!!!
• Hang them from the branches of the tree outside my front door and make a "shoe tree".
• Give them a full Viking Funeral: stuff them with bar-b-que lighter and newspaper. Set them alight and send them down the Bow River on an ice flow.

I need to know which one you think I should do. Please send in your vote and next Tuesday March 30th I will tally the score. Which ever one wins I will do and take a picture of it for prosterity.

Dr. Randolph Randolph's Book of Animal Jokes

Q. What's the difference between an injured lion and a wet day?
A. One pours with rain, the other roars with pain!

Quote of the Day

Running is a big question mark that's there each and every day. It asks you, 'Are you going to be a wimp or are you going to be strong today?'"

Peter Maher, Canadian marathon runner

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #047
• Date: Tuesday March 23rd  2010
• Course: Calgary Bow River Pathways Marathon
• Run time: 5hr 57min 29sec (See Garmin Connect)
• Aver. Heart Rate: 135 BPM ?
• Temperature C: -6C
• Distance covered to date: 1983.4km (1231.4m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Phoenix, Arizona, USA
• Total number of runners: 1

Today, nothing happened on the run. It wasn't too cold or too hot. My shins and ankles felt fine. My nutrition worked well. So, let's talk about what I saw during the 6 hrs I was on the pathways. I headed West along the Bow River, from the Shouldice Pool. It was a tough climb to start but it opened out to a terrific view of the river valley. I came across a couple with a large group of dogs. Normally I'm very wary of dogs, but these were well behaved. Further along I spotted a baby's hat, with a bear logo, strung up on a fir tree. The turn about point is below the Stoney Trail overpass and the out and back is 16km. Back at the pool I stripped off my running tights and light coat, had a coffee and Snickers bar and headed East toward Eau Claire Market.

The ice is receding from the river and there are many more pairs of geese hanging out along the banks. They're not scared of anything and honk and spit at you if you get too close. I was soon cooking in my long-sleeve, marino wool top, so that had to go. I had a few runners say hi and wish me luck which is great. At km 32 it was time for a spiniche, cheese and bacon scone at the Good Earth cafe. On the way back to the pool, I spotted some very cool graffiti on the wall of a water pump station, by the river. Next time I'll have to scramble down and get a photo. I arrived back at the car at 3.30pm. By then I was down to a singlet and shorts. Not much to add, nothing happened today.

Dr. Randolph Randolph's Book of Animal Jokes

Q. What do you get if you cross a fish with an elephant?
A. Swimming trunks!

Quote of the Day

"I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know:  the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve."

Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Dr. Albert Schweitzer

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #048
• Date: Wednesday March 24th  2010
• Course: Cochrane Town Marathon
• Run time: 5hr 48min 24sec(See Garmin Connect)
• Aver. Heart Rate: 147 BPM ? (monitor must be on the fritz)
• Temperature C: -8C (Easterly wind)
• Distance covered to date: 2025.6km (1257.6m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Kansas City, Missourri, USA
• Total number of runners: 1

Over breakfast, I was trying to figure the route I would take today around Cochrane. The problem was if I head North, East or South there are monster hills to climb in order to get out of the river valley. The only sensible choice was West, towards the mountains. As I started along the 1A I had the wind at my back and I knew it would be a long day. I thought I'd head out 14km then turn around but, at 13km, a sign emerge out of the mist "Ghost Station". This name always reminds me of the Hayao Miyazaki animated classic "Spirited Away". A 10 year old girl, Chihiro, is sitting in a train as it crosses a lake. The train stops in the middle of the lake, at a station, and ghosts get on and off before it continues on its way. At the "Ghost Station" on the 1A I got a coffee and  Snickers bar, much more practical.

The second part of my run took me through an "off leash" park along the river. I love dogs but I sometimes have a problem with their owners. Last week I was running along this section when an Alsatian bounded over and started to jump up at me. I put my arms up and the owner yelled "don't wave your arms you're just encouraging him". OK. Today, as I ran along the path a German Shepherd loped over and started to jump up at me. I didn't raise my arms (don't want to encourage the big fella) and asked the owner to take control. He came over and I thought he was going to say "Sorry, mate" or " He's a playful pup". Instead he said "you got beef jerky in that backpack". Beef jerky in that backpack!!! Yes, of couse I do. I've got 10lbs of the stuff and I'm making a delivery. Give me a break.

Llama Facts (This is no Joke)

Llamas are the South American cousin of camels.

Research Assistant Level II Karen

Quote of the Day

"Bear in mind that the wonderful things you learn in your schools are the work of many generations. All this is put in your hands as your inheritance in order that you may receive it, honor it, add to it, and one day faithfully hand it on to your children."

Albert Einstein

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #049
• Date: Thursday March 24th  2010
• Course: Belfast Elementary School
• Run time: 5hr 18min 41sec (See garmin Connect)
• Aver. Heart Rate: 101 BPM
• Temperature C: -11C
• Distance covered to date: 2067.8km (1283.8m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: San Diego, California, USA
• Total number of runners: 220

I forgot to mention yesterday tha,t after my run, I paid a visit to the Boys and Girls Club of Cochrane. On April 25th they're holding a fundraising 5k event for Right To Play and they had asked me to talk to the kids. So, Co-ordinator Amy took me down to the basement of their building to meet the children. I was a bit surprised to see 20 kids, ages 6 to 14, jumping up and down on the the spot. Were they practicing for River Dance? Was the floor extremely hot? No, they each had a pedometer and were accumulating steps. Over the last several months, as a group, they've been collecting steps and have reached over 600,000. Their objective: to do more steps than me in a year. Brilliant.

Today, I was at Belfast Elementary School in the NE of Calgary. Principal Barb and Teacher Katie welcomed me and, during assembly, I talked to the children. I was soon doing circuits around a 480m field and at recess a group of children joined me. Jonathan, grade 2, showed me a new running technique. By keeping your hands straight and pump your arms you can run like a "Ninja". Two grade 5 girls, Kenna and Annissa, fed me Smarties for which I was very greatful. I was on my own for a couple of hours, then the gang joined me again. The "Smartie Girls" stuck with me like glue and we completed 6 loops together. Great work girls. After the run I signed autographs and 3 grade 1 students gave me $3.13 for the Right To Play children.

Dr. Randolph Randolph's Book of Animal Jokes

Q. What's small and cuddly and bright purple?
A. A koala holding his breath!

Quote of the Day

"The world belongs to the energetic."

Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Hi MQ 250 Supporters,

I would like to cordially invite you to join me for my 50^th marathon this year.

What: "The Friendship Run"  (25km) in Okotoks, Alberta.

Start: The Old Arena (Tri-plex) 9.00am, Saturday, March 27^th.

Finish: The "Carlson Café" in High River at 12.30pm

Pace: Slow

Cost: None

Registration: None, just turn up, everyone welcome.

If you can't do the run join us for tea and cake at the café afterwards.

All the best,

Martin

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #050
• Date: Saturday March 27th  2010
• Course: Okotoks to High River
• Run time: 5hr 41min 31sec (See Garmin Connect)
• Aver. Heart Rate: 100 BPM
• Temperature C: 0C
• Distance covered to date: 2110.0km (1310.0m)
• Marathon run in the World Today: Yakima River Canyon, USA
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Tuson, Arizona, USA
• Total number of runners: 101

The alarm went off at 4.00am this morning, way too early. The plan was to leave my house at 5.00am and drive to Okotoks to start the run at 6.00am. Why, you are asking, would you want to start marathon #050 at 6.00am? Well the "Friendship Run" from Okotoks to High River starts at 9.00am. The problem is the route is 23km and I need 42.2km. So at 6.00am Chuck, Art, Andrew and myself, started off on the pre-19km event aiming to get back to the old arena by 8.45am to join the participants of the "Official" run. It was a beautiful morning, no wind and 0 degrees C. As we ran along the pathways by the hay fields the sun rays caught the mountain tops to the west of the town.

The run went well and at 8.40am we arrived back at the Arena. Runners were every where and I was meet by Organizer Norm and Ultra Runner Wayne. A group had come down from Cochrane and Sue arrived just before the run started. At 9.05am I blew the whistle and we were off. A gang shot off and soon a small group of us toddled along at the back. It's a pretty straight route to High River and the majority of it was along a high way. At the half way point was an aid station and we all chowed down on some amazing double chocolate chip cookies. Ultra runner Alan had waited for us and, as we continued, we chatted about Badwater, The Comrades and running the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim-to-rim. As we approached the Carlson Cafe we got a huge cheer, marathon #050 in the bag. I want to thank the Okotoks running club for being such gracious hosts. Also they raised $920 for Right To Play and the children.

Llama Facts (This is no Joke)

Most common noise made by llamas is a hum - both when happy or stressed. It's also how they communicate with their babies.

Research Assistant Level II Karen

Quote of the Day

"Live your life each day as you would climb a mountain. An occasional glance towards the summit keeps the goal in mind, but many beautiful scenes are to be observed from each new vantage point."

Harold B. Melchart

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #051
• Date: Monday March 297th  2010
• Course: Calgary Pathways marathon
• Run time: 5hr 42min 02sec (See Garmin Connect)
• Aver. Heart Rate: 99 BPM
• Temperature C: -2C
• Distance covered to date: 2152.2km (1336.2m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Oklahoma City, USA
• Total number of runners: 3

I had arranged to meet Runners Dave and Adam at the Shouldice Pool at 8.30am. As I pulled in I spotted Dave and a few minutes later Adam arrived. I had met Dave on one of the school marathons, in the January deep freeze. Adam and I had run together back on marathon #028, the run I had injuried myself. We headed off along the river path towards Calgary, a little mist hanging along the banks. Adam is part of the core MQ 250 team and his role is to drum up sponsorship for the marathons, not an easy task. Dave has completed many marathons, ultra's and triathlons. I was chatting to him about an article I had read in the latest Impact magazine about "Video Gait Analsis" carried out at The Tech Shop in Calgary. Dave then tells me that he works there and the route we're taking today will take us right past the shop.

We arrived at Eau Claire Market just after 10.00am and had a coffee. Adam had to leave us but Dave and I continued East and then South along the Elbow river. I explained to Dave that I had got lost the last time I had tried this route but fortunately he knew the road back onto the pathway system. Sure enough, we arrived at The Tech Shop at 12.20pm and Nolan put me through my paces for the Gait Video. He explained to me that I had a "Neutral" running gait (less than 8 degrees of varience) however I had zero shock absorption from my arches. This occurs in 2% of the population. Oh dear. He said not to worry. OK. Dave and I headed back to Eau Claire and we grabbed another coffee.  As he was sitting in the coffee shop, Dave's Garmin showed his milage increasing, very useful.

Dr. Randolph Randolph's Book of Animal Jokes

Q. Why is it hard to play cards in the jungle?
A. There are too many cheetahs!

Quote of the Day

"I believe that the Good Lord gave us a finite number of heartbeats and I'm damned if I'm going to use up mine running up and down a street."

Neil Armstrong on jogging, in an interview with Walter Cronkite

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #052
• Date: Tuesday March 30th  2010
• Course: Cochrane Town Marathon
• Run time: 5hr 49min 04sec (See Garmin Connect)
  
• Aver. Heart Rate: 104 BPM
• Temperature C: -6C
• Distance covered to date: 2194.4km (1362.4m)
• Total number of runners: 1

Today's run would take me to the west of Cochrane. The route along the 1A towards the mountains is fairly flat and, at 8.30am in the morning, not too busy. I decided to do 15km out and grab a coffee at the Ghost Station gas and convienience store. The store was quite and the owner was talking to a customer about the recession. He figures it's going to get worse and if you've got a job then keep it. He said that, before, it was the employees who called the shots but now it back with the employers. Time to get going. Back in town I stopped off at my accountants and paid the invoice for him doing my taxes. Then I stopped at the bank and paid the taxes I owed. Doesn't seem right that I have to pay both of them.

Avatar "Marathon Martin" has reached the half way point on his virtual route to Boston. Yesterday, he passed through Thunder Bay in Ontario and visited the "Big" Curling Rock (see his photo in the Flickr gallery on the Home page). He had been told it was the largest curling rock in the world but, he talked to the rock caretaker, Alf Childs, who gave him a very sad story. The Thunder Bay rock had been built in 1960, it was made of granite and stood 6' 6'' high. In 2006 the town of Arborg, Manitoba built a bigger rock but it was made out of steel and fibreglass. The City of Thunder Bay was in an uproar and Alf Childs is quoted as saying at the time "Those b!@#$%&'s in Manitoba are at it again!!!!!!"

Llama Facts (This is no Joke)

Many prominent people, including William Randolph Hearst, imported Llamas to the U.S. in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Since the mid-1970s, the animal has gained in popularity with hobbyists.There are currently over 200,000 llamas and over 20,000 alpacas in North America.

Research Assistant Level II Karen

Quote of the Day

"The new Kenyans. There are always new Kenyans."

Noureddine Morceli, 1988, when asked if he feared any other runners

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Below are the Latest Marathon stats:

• Marathon: #053
• Date: Wednesday March 31st  2010
• Course: Ecole Manachaban School
• Run time: 5hr 21min 03sec (See garmin Connect)
  
• Aver. Heart Rate: 107 BPM
• Temperature C: -9C
• Distance covered to date: 2236.6km (1388.6m)
• Equivalent Flight distance, Calgary to: Carlsbad, New Mexico, USA
• Total number of runners: 3

Today was my first school marathon in Cochrane. Ecole Manachaban Middle School has 300 plus students from grade 5 to grade 9. Teacher Marie met me as I arrived at the school at 7.45am. She told me that the children had been challanged to raise $500.00 to get two teachers to run a half marathon with me. I ran a few laps around the sports field before chatting with the kids at their 8.30am assembly. Principal Mike announced that $455.00 had been raised and could any one help to make it $500.00. By the time I had finished my coffee in the staff room, the amount was $525.00. Well done kids.

Teachers Marie and Mike set off with me and we clipped along for a couple of hours. The field loop was 600m and at recess a group of kids joined me. Two grade 5 er's Valerie and Shelby kept doing loop after loop. Other kids came and went but these two tough cookies just kept ploughing around. They told me it was "Pizza Day" and I asked if they could possibly get me a piece as it was one of my favorite food groups. By 12.30 pm I had completed 30km and was feeling a little peckish. Then out came Valerie and Shelby with a box of pizza and a chocolate milk. Thanks girls, much appreciated. On the final 1km all the kids came out and Teacher Mike presented me with the final cheque for Right To Play, $585.00. Amazing.

Llama Facts (This is no Joke)

Llamas have been recommended by psychologists and MD's as stress reducers for people with active lives. There is a something special about Llamas, if you sit and just 'be' with a llama, you can't help getting caught in the magic.

Research Assistant Level II Karen

Quote of the Day

"No one ever drowned in sweat."

Anon

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