RIVALRIES AND EGOS

It's been a while: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8eC1dM_s2js&feature=related

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The sports world needs rivalries. Some rivalries may be friendly, some may be cut throat and vicsious. Regardless, it is rivalires that fuel the sports world. This occurs on the professional level, all the way down to the lowest level... 'golf', joking... mostly.

As I've had a 9 year long running career, I've encountered a few rivalries. Most them have been just something I've created in my own head, but one rivalry was quite evident to many. As a young freshman, I was pertty cocky, "still am". Not outright and noticeable to anyone I talked to, but to me, I felt I deserved to win any race I ran. "I worked harder, why not?!" Unfortunatly, it does NOT work that way.

As I competed against small school classification kids, this mindset was reinforced when I raced. "Yes", I won the majority of my races, again... "small school classification kids". All this fueling my ego, as does most athletes having a rather large ego in tact. If oneself does not think they're better than the other guy, then one certainly isn't going to 'foam at the mouth' to beat the guy next to him. A big ego is crucial to have in being competitive in sports. How one conceals it, is another thing.
Regardless, let's get to the point! After pulling a rabbit out of my hat freshman year at pre-state, I won going from 21st at 1k to 1st by 4k and then holding on. A very calculated and executed race to the T to pull off the win, but none the less, "It happened". As Sophomore year came about, a much stronger runner, I won pre-state yet again. Althouh it was a close battle coming down to the homestretch. As my junior year came, I was a new runner. I wasn't 'half-bad', in which, at that pre-state race of my junior year. I pulled away early, as I stomped the field, and won in a very convincing 47 seconds. "No Sweat".

Let me tell you, "He was in the race". "Yes", the same race I won by 47 seconds. Who's "He?", you will later learn. Keep reading.

As state came around, I proceeded to do my typical crash and burn from allergies, and 'more excuses galore' and so forth. As I ran into a spectactor and just being a bag full of problems that day at xc state my junior year, "He" beat me there.

So, "Let it Begin!"

Limping through track, I made my way. Eventually getting to mid-summer, I started to roll in my training. As I entered my senior season, I felt I would not be challenged, ever. Again, let me re-instate the point all driven athletes have ego's when it comes to their sport. It is not a questionable thing... it is a must to compete in the sports world around us. A MUST!

As it was 95 degrees and early October of my senior year, and at a meet two weeks out before pre-state... You know, "My" pre-state, I have won it 3 years in a row! And "Yes", 95 degrees is seasonably warm. The second, "so-called fastest kid in the state/A big school classification runner" was there (this included all the classifications in the state of Oklahoma). As this race also inlcuded, "Him/He" as well. But let's be honest, I was more worried about the big school kid, who was 'famous' for having a great kick. As he would classically do the 'sit and kick' method against runners like me. So I thought, "Fine... I'll make a show out of it today". As the race went off, so did I. Coming through the 800m in a brisk 2.20, I continued to push. As Mr. Big school kid sat on my shoulder, we continued to glide along. My thoughts, "It's cool".

I proceeded to speed up, no worries, it is only a 5k after all...

Coming through the mile in 4.37 and the screaming words from his coach, "HE'S GOING TO BLOW YOU UP, BACK OFF... BACK OFF!!!"

And let me tell you, as a scrawny 116 lb kid at the time, that was the plan. And I did.

As we rolled along and only a 1/4 mile later, I would run alone. No longer hearing the footsteps behind me, I pushed on. Knowingly, the wall was coming, I did only have a 4.29 mile pr at the team. And in some sense, I was all for it. Well, so long as I didn't hit it first. Hearing the screams for my competitor, as his fellow teammates and cheer group yelled along the course, in which, he lagged just beyind. Yelling came in all directions, "IS THERE REALLY PEOPLE IN THE TREES CHEERING/YELLING TOO?!"
Just as I stared the last lap, consisting of a 2k, and no longer hearing my competitors named shouted, and seeing that of only solomn faces as I darted along turns, chopping around the turns, I tried hard to hold off my trademark smirk... well... the best I could.

And perhaps, this race was a bit too much for my ego.


Blog break!!!:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFubzSu2AOE&feature=related

Winning the race was only a simple matter of pride, as it held no real value. And "No" I did not forget, about the kid, who shall be known thus far into the story as "He", in which, "He" got 3rd place in the race... almost a womping minute behind. As "He" would be at my pre-state meet in just a week. Nor, did I even question being challenege by him, to me, this was going to be a massacre.

Training through, to the point, the warmup at pre-state was "rough", I did not care. I wouldn't need to be at the top of my game anyways.

With the simple sound of the gun, "BANG", the race was underway as 200 hundred kids battled and jostled for positioning. As it immediately became evident in the race "He" was out front, and not only was he out front, but he was 'way' out front. My thoughts, "He'll come back, they always do."

Please right click and make this your background music: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uDMw9kpRWg

Did I tell you 'his' school was across the street? Well, it was.

A little before the mile, and a good gap behind, people were yelling as if the race was already over. As I trudged along the course, legs heavy, a slight sense of panic amongst my heavy breathing. I began to wonder if I was going to catch him, as he did not hesistate and dropped the hammer from the get-go. Swinging around a large Oak tree, just beyond the mile mark, I began panic. Screaming to my left, screaming to my right, people were going crazy. And so I began to.
As all fans know, Cross country really does bring out quite an enthused and energetic crowd of people. God knows why people get so into it. Perhaps, witnessing the looks of death amongst the runners, as each, whether fit, fat, or being forced to run for their school, each kid would ran hard regardless of the circumstances. As I said, "Everyone has an ego when it comes to sports". Regardless, people LOVE it when they get to witness this sport known as cross country. Hearing people tell me, "Watching cross country is like crack for their eyes"... That being said, I also began to wonder where these people come from...

As I can no longer take it, and aisde from feeling like death, I surged. Closing the 30 yard some gap quickly, I couldn't take not being in the lead! As I pulled up aside from competitor, who kept an intense focused look, he was unphased. My thoughts, "Huh". Hurting from the surge, I did not care. As we just passed the 2k, I pushed forward. I wanted the lead, I needed the lead, I WAS SUPPOSE TO LEAD! As I took the lead, my thoughts, "Anytime now, he should be falling off".

Well, in actuality, he proceeded to take the lead immediately back and put forth his own surge. As I begin hating my existance, people screaming for my rivil, chanting "YOU GOT HIM!!! YOU GOT HIM!!!" As if to say, the race was over. It seemed like there was an ongoing theme here. Let me tell you, people really aren't afraid to insult your own physical ability in the sport known as cross country. I mean, if you have a wound, people will pour salt in it, and proceed to insult your good-hearted mother in the process... Pressure can build from this atmosphere, trust me.

As we both continued to stick to each other, neither of our egos giving in, switching off leads, surge after surge, neither of us broke. As we came upon the finishing straight, along the starting line, in which, was the last 1 mile loop of the course, we were completely in the crowds eyes for almost all of the last 2k. Knowing people were going to see this, I panic... again. Re-surging to take the lead, legs dead, eyes rolling to the back of my head, I would not let this happen... I WON'T!!! Taking back the lead, to which, I thought was rightfully mine. I thought I can now pull away now. As we passed right by the finish line, to start the last 1 mile loop, we circled around up an infamous hill. The same hill I broke away my freshman and sophomore year to win this race in an surprising upset, this was my hill!

You know what? History did not repeat itself, as my rival began his own surge up the hill, and not only took the lead, but opened up a gap. People began jumping up and down, as they were going crazy, in which, one cocky kid from no-where Oklahoma was falling off... "Awesome". As the gap grew to 5 yards... to 10 yards, and then opening up to 20 yards... It was becoming quite evident who was controlling the race. As I still loosely held on, form beganning to faulter, as I broke down... I couldn't help, but take notice of everything. How well my season was going up till then, how important this race was to me, after all I won it the past 3 years, and now people critiqueing (screaming/taunting)  my own self worth. As my blood boiled, shooting to the tips of my fingertips, my teeth gritting... "No, it's not over!" As one coach yelled to my rival when he was cresting a small hill, "HE'S fallen off! Just like that, I made a push... "Looks like someone spoke to soon"...

As we were going into the trees, only to be hidden for 200 meters, and then coming out of the woods, to an open 1/2 mile straight to the finish... I began to reel my competitor back in. And let me tell you how much I regretted giving him every little inch I gave him at that point. My body ached, arms, legs, and even my back felt chocked full of lactic acid, as I weezled my way back up to my rival, I was determined.

Finally closing the gap, to the extent, I was just a few yards checked off him... I began to plot my move. This was a hard enough task, as 1.) I felt like crap. 2.) He was famous for splitting  51 in the 400m 3.) I was infamous for a lack of having a kick. 4.) Barbara Streison is a no talent ass clown!

As I quickly decided, I would make the move/the push 400 meters out. As it was right at the point, were the runners go up a really steep incline onto the road, in which, we crossed it, and then proceed to drop 10 yards down a decline, this is where I would get my momentum for "The Kick". As we were coming up onto the road, blood boilding, adrenline pumping for one last hoorah... charging up the incline, striding over the road, and throwing myself in a downward push of momentum coming off the decline... I shot out

And so the real race begun.

As I darted past my competitor, noticing his eyes immediately opening up in shock (his thoughts: "HE'S BACK?!), I did not hesitate. I charge forth with all my might, feeding off the momentum I gained, I would not be denied a win without an honest fight! I WOULD NOT!

Quickly realizing how far kicking out from 400 meters is, "It hurt".

300 meters left, still holding on, grimacing, eyes closed, arms, legs driving forward.

200 meters out, "WHERE IS HE?!"

100 meters out, people jumping up and down, others holding their hands over their mouths in aspirations of who would win this death match, two runners continued to volley for that front spot as we closed down the last bits of the course.

 As I glanced at the ground, using my rival's own shadow to guage how close he was, I continued to dig. A shadow approaching, my fists clinched, and as I continued to hold my form together... well, the best I could...

And as the last steps towards the finish line were just strides away....



I watch my opponents shadow disappear... a sense, a euphoria overwhelmed me, as I held my head high coming acroos the line. Exhilarated by my win, there was no denying what hit me next... as it was the ground when I came crashing down from exhaustion. As it felt like I was dying, I did not care. To me and my ego, it would be a much better path than losing a race.


What happened when I recovered? Well, I asked my rival to join me in training (as others wondered why in the damn pickens hell, "I asked" my competition to train with me, to which, I gave a simple response, "Let the best man win". As that winter came along, we became good friends as we trained together and proceeded to represent our track club quite well.

My conclusion:

A lesson can be learned from this.


ALSO: I WILL MAKE ANOTHER BLOG POST IN THE NEXT WEEK AND GIVE EXTENSIVE DETAIL OF WHAT'S GOING ON. AS I ALWAYS SAY, "IT'S A LONG STORY".

Comeback kid

Okay, long story short, I have been guilted into making yet another post.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TL1uFjSbvnA


That being said, "Update."



As it's late, I refuse to say how late it actually was, let's just say... ' it's late.' Regardless, I'm back to running. Here I am, enclosed in a rather large building that contained the turf indoor football field, as I glide along. As I'm chopping along, a little heavy breathing from being a bit out of shape, a small, yet still noticeable twitch in my running stride, sweat continuing to build, as I 'only' sported yellow running shorts (I know right?! ;), as I continued to stide along. As my bare feet stuck the turf, "digging" into the mounded up rubber, topped with a layer of synthetic grass, and the simple "BEEP BEEP BEEP'ing" sound of my watch, my stride opened up as I transgress into a more uptempo pace. Hardly back to my old form, metaphorically, and to some extent, litterally, I'm not bothered by being 'fat'.

Background music: please right click and add into an extra tab! thank you and have a nice day! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kb0Y7WKETbs


"BEEP BEEP BEEP," as I now regress back to my short and choppier stride, to which, I obviously slowed it back down. I am doing what is known to runners as a "Fartlek." Simply because it is easy on my hip flexor, because I don't have to stop and start repeatedly like I do in intervals. Today's fartlek was relatively simple, 14x60 seconds at an uptempo pace, and a 60 second jog in-between. Hardly anything like what I used to do, it was a start.


I probably should start from the first day of practice, to let you know my current mindset, rather than let you 'guesstimate' how i felt. So, as the first day, to which is also known as, "Gear day"... a.k.a. "Christmas for us runners in college," thousands of dollars of gear is given out to each runner/person, some specifically made from Nike given to the OU runners. As I gather up all my gear, I realize something's missing...Cross country spikes.



As I mention it, as well as a few other guys missing 'this or that,' they say, "What model of spikes do you want? We'll order them now."



"Actually, it doesn't matter, I won't be racing till indoor..." nor was I running at that current time. Due to injury, I was unbothered, so I acted at the time. Ironically, that same day, an old friend called, that was also in the Big 12 conference meet, and was asking when they were going to be able to see me. As they knew about my current situation, intially thinking they would not see me, "Wait a minute!... You're going to come 'watch' Big 12's right?!" A bit, "Oh ya, I'm not going to be able run it" thought crosess my mind, as I chime back, "No way I'm missing that!"

As a week or so passes, and by the grace of god... AND the 'fun' therapy I mentioned in my last post... I was able to get back into running.



A couple weeks later, and trying to make... what I'd like to call a comeback, and my hopes that were intially thoughts of only failure, turned into hopes of "what if's."



As the 10th repition of my uptempo fartlek workout comes about, my breathing picks up, as does my stride. As the janitor comes onto the indoor turf field through the doors, in which, were combined with the complex... I darted by him unphased as he spoke up, "Hey buddy! As usual... make sure the doors are locked when you're heading out, no rush though!"



As I gathered myself and the energy required, I yelled back, "Ya, no problem!.... Preciate it!" This was now becoming a routine from the past 9 days of running.

As I see through the clear doors, the lights are now all turned out from all directions, as the dim lights from the indoor football field are the only thing guiding me along, step after step, minute after minute, lap after lap, I pushed forward. As this continued, I forgot how good it felt to hurt. Odd... I know. Whether it's an addition to pain, or a simple love of knowing that I'm doing "something" with my current day to day life to which, I'd like to say I'm moving forward in, regardless, I was comforted by hurting.



As I am now in the cooldown phase, trotting a couple miles to shake out the junk from the uptempo workout, well... 'That felt good.' Not only did I think that, I litterally said that out loud, and "Yes," I will remind you, I was by myself. And Yes, I know... I'm too cool sometimes.



As I now relax my thoughts, and drop the intense mindset that accompanies every good runner during a workout, I think of my current day. Well, heck... I'll tell you! As I awake that morning, at a ridiculous early time of 11 a.m. I make my way through my daily errands. First getting back to all the jackass'... I mean, "friends" that texted me so freaking early, "Caleb, I'm talking about you." SERIOUSLY YOU TEXTED ME AT 9 A.M., TO TELL ME YOU TALKED TO A GIRL?... AND SHE WAS ONLY A 7?!"..... "AND NO," I won't forget about you Nicole, who has to tell me, "She has shin splints and needs my advice"... Nicole, you're a freaking doctor, literally. I am a punk ass kid who makes straight C's in college. Do you really want my advice?!


Let's not forget Sara, who tells me happy birthday, let's just say, "Sara's not all there... bless her heart..."



DAMN IT!!!



Okay, I was just joking about that... perhaps.



As I walk over to the training room to do drills, I now have a new friend. A trainer... to which, I tell her all the team gossip... "ALL OF IT." As her eyes light up, wondering what soap opera related stuff happened within the past day, she shares her thoughts... after she hears everything she wants. "Ya Clay, if you really like K.W.'s mom, and seeing how she made a pass at you... You should go for it!"... "Also, (name) they'll come around!"



Well thanks, "trainer's name."



As the day passes, and dinner comes about, I enter the cafe, which is dominated by a lot of athletes. I hand the cashier my money, and with the non-chalant words in addition, "Here's my drug money"... A bit baffled, and odd stares from random people that were lined up behind me.... "Drug money?!" As I just smile and walk on, I proceeded to stuff my 'fat face' in every dessert that is offered... cookies, cake, and my favorite meal, salad... KIDDING! My favorite meal is actually, raw sugar.... YOU THINK I'M KIDDING?! I'm not.



As 6:15 rolls around, I make my way over to the track, I have a group of 4 kids I legitimately help coach... for free. As a few teammates/friends come to join/watch, I give instructions on what today's workout is, and all runners nod their head and start their routine warm-up. As this was the 3rd workout on Monday, a friend paid half attention to the runners I have been coaching and pipes up... "Who's the 5th guy? I don't remember him from the past two weeks." My response, "Beats me... randoms just show up... and usually stay too."



A little bit later, one kid chimes in, "What mile pace, is a 5 minute mile"... As I chime back, "Well, let's see here... a 5 minute mile pace... is well, 5 minute mile pace." The kid nods his head... "Oh okay!"... Then proceeds to ask, "What mile pace is a 10 minute 2 mile?" As I don't answer and blankly stare into the sky, and talk to myself, which, as you should know by know, was out loud.... "I don't get paid enough to do this." One of my kids who is still running around the track for their warmup, runs by as he hears this, "HA, that's funny, because you don't get paid at all to do this!", and... my butt is slapped. Thoughts, "Dear Jesus, how did I end up in the situation... Sincerely, your loyal friend....-clay." Personally, I just wanted to be in a gang, and do 'stuff', and then do more 'stuff'. But no, I wanted to be a good samaritan? Who knows.


Workout done, and calculating the response the kids had from the 1st workout to the current one, "Yep, looks like they're all responding nicely!"



Then, the current activities of the evening take place, activites end, run, and now I sit here writing this....

Night y'all!


And here's your vids, you vultures: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-kZ9YfB9Q3U


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0A2moFdM1Yo


-clay j mayes the 3rd

As of Lately?

I haven't put up a post in a while, but ya, there's some things I'd like to share, as there has been a transitioning of my mindset these past two weeks:

As of lately, things have been... well, 'different' for me.


After my first few weeks of not being able to run, things changed. It's human nature to tell the truth.

AS USUAL, PLEASE RIGHT CLINK THE LINK, AND ADD AS YOUR BACKGROUND MUSIC. PLEASE AND THANK YOU :)!-- www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBiyiU5Blm8


Aside from being more-so ADHD from the lack of running to mellow me down, I went about everything in a very non-chalant way.
As each day of not being able run went by after the first few weeks, I didn't think anything of it. At that point, my body was still damamged, to the extent that I could not even hold up-right while trying to run, let alone walk completely normal. Of course, I cross-trained hard, as ellitptical and aqua jogging beaome my new found niche for 'breaking a sweat'. Let me tell you, I OWNED and put to shame any person that would elliptical in my presence.
As some people don't realize, most people go through the motions in their life. Personally, I am no fan. Think about it, what fun is it subconsciously going through your day without appreciating what you do, what kind of person you are, or perhaps enjoying the true simple things in life. Still lost? Okay, Have you ever drove somewhere, got out of your car and been like, "Wait... I drove, I don't even remember it.... "Well, a lot of people go through motions in their daily lives. And In my instance, it dealt with my mentality of running, or current lack there-of.

Since 7th grade, people referred to me as a runner, rare in my parts of the state... perhaps country. But ya, it was what I was known for. I worked hard, had a genuine liking of the sport, was fascinated by how it worked, and so forth. And when I got hurt, I not only lost sight of what and who I was for a bit, but was no longer consciously missing running, and even failed to remember it... even purposely to an extent.
As school came around, I would do the same thing everyday. As I made my way into the training room, now becoming quite comfortable for being an elite elliptical'ist', I went through the motions.

Football guy: "What up big man!?"
Me: "What little guy?!"
As we both gave a simple handshake on the go, I was unconscious. This was my life. Pouring sweat, with the soles of my feet burning from the friction I was creating, I hammered the elliptical day in and day out. As time went on, I began to wonder from time to time, if my hip flexor and joined tendons would ever heal, nor did I worry that much anymore. Each day would be the same thing, wake up, go to the training room, do the same drills day after day, elliptical, chit chat with the other sports players in the training room, and then go about the rest of my day 'til I aqua jogged. It was life.
To be perfectly honest, I was content. So, I told myself. Well.... wait a minute, "Okay," I wasn't completely content, there were times I was scared to be in the training room during my daily routine. It was when the softball players were there. Let me tell you this, if a cage match were to break out between me and any one of them, I would be ripped in half... And that's saying a lot with my junior high wrestling resume!

The one thing that I kept buried, was that of people continually asking me, "Are you back to running yet?" Each day, the same talks in person, calls, texts, "So can you run yet?" This would include several people primarily ranging from back home, day to day life, some of the guys on the team, and so on, but the most consistent one being my mom. "So, Mud (what my fam calls me)... can you run yet?"

Me: "Let me tell you the plan, Nancy. First off, I'm waiting for the Olympics to add the Elliptical, then and certainly then, I will proceed to represent the U.S. of A. and bring home the gold."

My mom: in a broken up tone, "So, not yet?"

Me: "Perhaps tomorrow."


I proceeded to say, "Perhaps tomorrow," numerous times, and without giving it much thought.

As I went onto campus one day, and this being the only day I have been on campus, I walked along. I am still confused to this very moment what exactly happened... But I will explain it the best I can. As I was heading back home, a young girl walked up to me and simply said, "You miss running." She did not ask it like it was question, rather telling me what I was 'supposed' to be thinking. A little confused, I just gave a slight smile/smirk, light laugh and in a half heartily tone, "Ya... I do." This was the first time it was brought to my attention, my conscious reasoning, in the 3 weeks, now up to 6 weeks at this point. What I forgot, what I missed most... And... that was it. I didn't say much more, it was a simple exchange of words. And ya, I know what you're thinking, who was the girl? Personally, I do not know. I would guess it was one of the girls that ran in some track meets I did back in high school, but I am still unsure.

Regardless, I did not fully cave. I just had that feeling about running, which could be concluded with a simple and slight curious... "huh".

For whatever reason, perhaps a spark from the girl on campus, I decided to try yet ANOTHER kind of therapy, as if the deep tissue massage, stem therapy, ultra sound, strengthening drills, and acupuncture therapy... yes, the therapy where they stab you with needles... "purposely," was not enough already. So, I made the call, set up the appointment and so let it be done. I go in and the doctor explains what's going to happen... "We are going to take this metal bar and manually use it to grind up all the scar tissue that has formed in the area of your injury, and ya, it's going to be pretty painful."

The doctor was a very friendly lady, who in a sense, came off a bit 'hippi-ish.' As she examined my body before the therapy started, proceeding to feel out the injured area, as well as several other places to figure out if I was aligned properly and all that jazz, she gets quiet.

As there is a sense of erieness, I look up, she is hovering over me as I sit there, and in a sense waiting for me to take notice, she tells me, "Clay... your body misses running."



After a confused look, she repeats it again, "Your body is telling me it misses running"
A bit baffled, I begin to think, "First off, I never said I was a runner, nor suggested it (I mean, look at me, I'm clearly basketball player material... 'clearly'). And second, as hard as it is for me to say at the time, it was true." As a rush of feelings came through, I simply sat there with a bit of confusion, a small, yet, trademark smirk of mine, and after a short pause, simply said, "Ya... ya, it does."
No longer "going through the motions" from one moment to the next, I begin to remember what I appreciated. I could entail numerous pages of what all I missed and what came to mind in that instant, but in short, I wanted to run again, sincerely. Well, okay, I'll share 'one' moment: As a good friend of mine is biking beside me on a summer night run in Claremore, I ran alongside. No worries in the world, we discussed all issues that concerned our interest:
Friend: That's crazy a common ground hole squirrel can outrun the fastest man on the planet.
Me: Crazy? No. I call it simple logic, and truth. It IS a squirrel and all.
Friend: Just curious, but what is your position on the role of government in supporting innovation in the field of biotechnology?
Me: "Well, let me put it simply, recent research has shown the empirical evidence for globalization of corporate innovation is very limitied and as a corollary the market for technologies is shrinking. As a world leader, it's important for America to provide systematic research grants for our scientists. I believe strongly there will always be a need for us to have a well articulated innovation policy with emphasis on human resource development. BOOM! Thank You!"

As the run is almost done, and just half a mile away from where we're finishing up, things take a turn As a handful of random people drove by, they proceed to throw a water bottle at my friend on the bike. As they continued onward, "as if it was over:"... they came upon a stop light 200 yards down. Without consciously thinking, I snag the filled water bottle, and track them down. As an argument breaks out, yelling from both sides, I open up the water bottle and thrown it in the their vehicle. My friend arrives over on the bike, as I swiftly say, "Go back to the vehicle, I'm taking care of this."

After some more arguing and the water bottle tossed back out of the vehicle to the other side, it gets more heated... And just as it was all said and done, I was trotting away, and one of the punks chimes in, "YA! I bet you wouldn't throw that water bottle back in here!"

"Oh really?"

Without hesitation and hopping over and grabbing it, still half full at this time, I gladly throw it back in. This time, they get out of the vehicle and face to face arguing is taking fold... and ya... I will finish this story.... "Another day, Another Time" :D.

As the heated 'event' is done with, I go back over to my friend. "Wow, I can't believe that happened..."

Me: That's a weekly thing... man.

Friend: "Same people or something? What were you thinking???"
Me: "Typically, no. And I wasn't?"

Friend: "What should we do now?"
Me: "Are we human, or are we dancers?"
Back to the therapy:
As the therapy starts, it becomes evident, "This sucks." As I can literally hear the scar tissue being grinded with the bar, and the therapist saying, "Wow, this area isn't a happy camper", I begin to "half" jokingly have second thoughts about this.

I am going to cut this entry short, but to put it simply, "They say the hardest step is always the first," so let it be known, the first step has been taken.

Yes... people... I got your comedy right here-- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjGwusHrOtk and also:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8F_G2zp-opg&feature=channel

p.s. New squirrel videos will be up 'next' post :)
-clay j mayes the 3rd

Also, I would like everyone to say a prayer or two for a good friend of mine named Jared, who is having some serious heart issues and will be undergoing surgery shortly. So, if it's not too much trouble to ask, a couple prayers for a genuinely good-hearted guy would be great!

Can you win?!

Okay, so I have a full week of shenanigans, "A really busy week'. So, I would like to apologize b/c there will be no post this week.

Although, I will hold a game. Anyone can win this game with the right set of words, or best idea.

To the winner will be a prize, "A good prize". If you are a runner, it will be running-related. If you are not a runner... no worries, it will be non-running related! :)

Each person is allowed to not only enter just once, but is allowed to enter with two different entries!

The question now is, "How does one enter and what to enter?"

Basically, either send me a quote, a picture, or an essay (Roughly within a 5 minute read if that's easy to do)...of why you deserve to win this prize 'The' most! Being clever is important... If you can't tell already, I like originality!

To whatever catches my attention most, "wins".... and keep it clean.

There will be absolutely no favortism in this contest. So, if you know me... "Sorry, you're going to have to earn it :)"

Entries can be sent to mud.mayes@gmail.com or shoot me a message on facebook, whether you're a friend or not facebook friend does not matter.

Contest ends on August 27th at midnight! You got a bit less than one week, and two entries... make them count!

Everyone might as well enter, worth a shot!

-BEST OF LUCK!!!

Also...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JuPYZX2cUXE


-clay j. mayes the 3rd

"Watch it Purple!"

This post will be the second edition of, "Everybody has a Story", which the first edition of this story can be found here: www.miletomile.blogspot.com/2010/07/everyone-has-story.html (or scroll down the blog).


Now, I know what you're thinking... "WATCH IT... PURPLE?!... HUH?!"... And yes, if you want to know the meaning behind this phrase, I can certainly tell you. Obviously, I tend to expound, so let me start from the beginning.

When two people love each other... (STOP!!! *clears throat*... Let's fast forward a bit more).


CUE MUSIC!!! PLEASE RIGHT CLICK LINK (ADD AN EXTRA TAB) AND ADD THIS NECESSARY BACKGROUND MUSIC FOR SCHWABBY'S START IN RUNNING... IT'S MANDATORY: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWR0k_R6XDE

It was the year 1996 and a young man by the name, "Schwabby" was competing in his local "Elementary Mile." Basically, all the Elementary classes joined together in the school he attended. The statistics to this duel included, "Let's see who can ran the fastest mile amongst all the Elementary classes." Schwabby stood 4 foot nothing stature, sportiing a crew hair cut, and grew up on the west-side of the state (important fact to remember), and it is also important to note, Schwabby had a heart twice the size of the normal 'full' grown man. To this very day, I cannot figure out if this is just an urban legend, or fact. Regardless, Schwabby was full of positive energy and was up to any challenge that he encountered. Fun fact of the day!... Schwabby's fellow childhood heroes include Michael Jordan, Lance Armstrong, and K.W.'s mom! She was smoking (8.8 out of 10)!

What sparked his interest in running?- During his 3rd grade year, Schwabby got 2nd place in his annual school's 1 mile race that was amongst all the middle schoolers. Many people are content with 2nd. Hell! Many people just want a ribbon. Honestly, if you"ve seen the movie Ricky Bobby, the phrase, "If you're not first, you're last," did not actually come from Ricky Bobby's dad. It actually came from Schwabby as he was leaving the meet when he came in 2nd... Ricky Bobby's dad overheard it, and that bastar... I mean, "jerk"... took it as his own! The nerve!

After his 2nd place showing, Schwabby went into "training mode". With the help of his dad, also a former 'great' runner himself back in the day, they measured off 'just' a quarter mile loop in a local park behind his house. Everyday he ran that same loop running anywhere from 3-5 miles. His only days off included the day before and after road races. The most remarkable thing about this was not his consistency, but what he did during his runs. "What?" You may ask... Honestly, I'm just going to cut to the chase, 'Schwabby sang the National Anthem' as he ran... over and over again, loop after loop, mile after mile, day after day during each of his runs. For whatever reason, I do not know for sure, but damn, he was one patriotic kid! (God Bless America!).

One year of training later, "It was time."

The big day had come for Schwabby as he toed the line for the annual mile race amongst all the elementary kids of his school. With a heart twice the size of a normal person, as stated earlier, and the determination of a Samurai... yes, a DAMN SAMURAI! Schwabby took out for the lead from the gun and did not relent. As each lap passed, his lead grew. By the 4th and final lap, there would be no question of who was your, "Elementaaaaary Miiiiiile Chaaampiiiiiiioon of the Year!" As legend would have it, Schwabby crossed the line 'popping champagne. 'Yes, I know what you're thinking....

"What a badass!"

"Wait, that's not what you were thinking?"...

"Me?! Actually, I don't find it weird a 4th grader was popping champagne."

"Where do I think he got champagne during his race?!"

"Dude, beats me, I think the more important thing here is he 'looked pretty dang cool' doing it!!!"

After his race, Schwabby did not relent. Year after year, he would run that same 1/4 mile loop just behind his house. Some days it was covered in ice and snow, other times, the temps would be soaring above 100 F, by all means, he was consistent.
______

Nike Outdoor Nationals:

The day was June 14th, 2006 and today was the day. Schwabby and me went to the track together, as we were staying at the same hotel. We proceeded to start our warm-up for the Nike Outdoor Nationals 5000 meter in the town of Greensboro, North Carolina, I, for one, had many racing thoughts.



As we trotted along, there was a sense of nervousness that could be felt amongst the whole stadium, from the athletes, to the parents, to the spectators, and even the nearby public wondering what the heck was causing all the commotion!? As we trotted along in our warm-up, there was light chit chat:


Schwabby: "1-10, Blonde 40 meters to the left!?"

Me: "Hmmm, 8.2"

Schwabby: Krispy Kreme donuts, or Dunkin Donuts.

Me: "Uhg... KRISPY KREME!"

Me: "If you put a chameleon in a room full of mirrors, what color would it change?" "Does a postman deliver his own mail?"


Schwabby: "Green"... "Only on Tuesdays!"

But for the most part, not much was said...
_____

Cue music (right click and add as a new tab.. THANK YOU, and have a good day :):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eWmnhOIW0k


As for my current childhood where-a-bouts as a young kid, I was playing soccer on the EAST-SIDE of the state (important to note). I was playing (hustling) Rogers/Mayes county soccer league. I was a 'professional'. "You think I'm kidding?!". I kid you not. I always, and I mean ALWAYS, got paid with sour straws and the soda pop of my choice after each game. That was my rate, I was livin' life, let me tell you. I was a ball of energy on fields, commonly referred to as "The Energizer Bunny." I held league records of 21 goals in 10 games, and according to urban legend, that record still stands, but more interestingly...

I was notorious for playing too rough, yet, I was smaller than everyone on the field..."go figure". Known for this already, a fellow parent on our soccer team took me aside right before the start of the first indoor soccer game of the season, which is in an enclosed area. Basically, the ball could not go out of bounds because you could play the ball off of the walls and he said, "Mud (that's what people called me) this is exactly like hockey, you can play as aggressive as you want... you know.. body check people into walls." Till this day, I do not know what I replied with back, but what I do know is I went onto that indoor soccer field with a crazed look in my eyes. Athletes from other teams actually started to avoid me after several bouts and after several other occasions where I actually checked them into the walls, as we (soccer players) were going for the ball.... Looking back after all these years... and remembering the pain I caused (bringing a few kids to tears), alls I can say is, "My Bad."
______


Nike Outdoor Nationals:

As the race was drawing closer, the announcer was there to let us know,





"15 MINUTES TILL RACE TIME!"

 "14 MINUTES TILL RACE TIME!"


 "12 MINUTES TILL THE MEN'S 5000 METER!"


"PLEASE BE SURE TO BUY A POPCORN AND A POP FOR ONLY 2 DOLLARS!"


"11 MINUTES TILL THE NIKE OUTDOOR MEN'S 5000 METER RUN!"

 "WHY AM I YELLING!? WERE AM I?!"


As Schwabby and me split off in different directions to do our strides, we went into our own little world. Up-to-date, this was our biggest race we've ever done. I believe my time ranked low 20's some place overall, as Schwabby was ranked somewhere between 4th-6th overall. As we each did our light sprints in various locations, the tension was building, as the heart began to race, adrenaline pumping to such an extent, that it could be felt on the tips of one's fingers, it was easy to say, "All or nothing at the point".

_______

After a several year stunt playing professional soccer, I started to try out other sports... wrestling, football, baseball, and of course, basketball. I picked up running a bit here and there, 'for fun'. But it was not until 7th grade, that I would meet this "Schwabby". It was the Field of Dreams 5k in Tulsa (East-side)... "My hood".

Toeing the line in b-ball shorts, shoes ripped at the toe box, and in a soccer t-shirt, I had all intentions of winning my age group... 'off of talent'. Well, 'he' was there too... "Schwabby". As I walked over to the start, I was baffled. He was doing sprints... What in the world?! 50 yard sprint... 'stop', repeat... again and again!' It would not be till months later, that I would learn this is what runner's call, "Strides".

When the gun went off, I swear Schwabby dropped a sub 4 mile, okay, more like 4.05. When it was all said and done, he rolled an 18.18, as I crawled across the line in 20.22. Afterwards, "I wanted to know THE secret". Approaching him and asking, what he ran daily and to my surprise, he just smiled back and said, "I just run". As simple as it was, that's was what he did. To me, I wanted to know the tricks of the trade, the 'set' plan to success! Obviously and to what I would later figure out, running is completely based off consistency. It's something you have to routinely do, day after day, when it's dark, when it's hot, when it's cold, when it's raining, snowing, one has to do it consistently. That is what I did NOT have.

Then I started 'training'! Day after day, I would race my dad out on the country back roads. Typically, I went two miles further, as he would do a 4.67 mile run, as I did 6.67. He ran a 23 minute in the 5k, verse my 20 minute 5k. Honestly, I would tear myself apart day after day, ensuring I would beat him. Sometimes it would come down to the driveway (which is 150 meters long), sometimes I would get him a half mile out. It was after weeks, months, and then on, that I started to improve. Several months later, Schwabby and me would meet again....

During which time, Schwabby ran day in and day out, and yep, you guessed it, singing the national anthem on his runs, "OH SAY CAN YOU SEEEEEE...". Also druing this time, he would be scanning the local Oklahoma Runner Magazine with his dad, "Hey there's a night race in Tulsa! The MDA 5k run!"

As I saw the race myself, "I'm game!"

________

Nike Outdoor Nationals:

As runners are, they are competitive. This can concern anyone... ANYONE. Whether that be cross town rivalries, friends, and even family. It's just the nature to competiting when you're at such a high level of training and striving to a goal you've prepared for years. As it is known, I was relatively an underdog versus Schwabby, and for good reason! Small school vs Big school kid, 29 (okay, I think it was 11, 7 individually) time state champ verse 1 time state champ (I was excellent and notorious for choking), and so and so on.

 "ALL 5000 METER RUNNERS, REPORT TO THE STARTING GATE!"

Cue music (right click and add as an extra tab): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eWmnhOIW0k

As the time was now, there was no looking back. In a white Jenks America jersey, sporting a blue wristband, a watch, and let's not forget... blue HOTWHEEL SUNGLASSES, I was ready.

Schwabby in a Red jersey saying, "OKLAHOMA" across the front, appeared to be primed and ready to go. As each runner toed the line, jam packed, each guy vollying for a spot, there was a sense of serial quiteness, as all runners awaited the gun. The stadium was lit up to the max, as it was complete nightfall, yet, inside the stadium it appeared to be true as day.

Within one split second, the starter proceeds to raise the starting gun, to which, was pointing straight to the heavens.

"BANG!"

________

(Schwabby located far left, blonde hair, 9th grade at this time, in which, he grew literally a foot one year later)

That night of the MDA run could not have came soon enough, as it was a hot and humid night in June. After a righteous 3 minute jog warm-up... I was ready. I walk over to the line, "HE'S... HE'S HERE!... Looks like he grew half an inch too!"

Now, let me tell you the facts so far. I went from a 20.xx 5k guy to a pr (personal record) of 18.04 in the 5k at this time. This next part may sound hard to believe, but true none the less, Schwabby at this time, 'also' had a pr of 18.04 in the 5k. I figured, I would have the element of surpise and catch him off guard by my new found fitness...

To what I later found out, Schwabby knew my current 5k pr, as well as, the weather I set it in, and the place I set it at. Turns out, Schwabby read the 'Oklahoma Runner Magazine' too...

________

Nike Outdoor Nationals:

As a slight panic was put forth amonst the field of 29 runners, EVERYONE was battling for positioning. The kid that lined up to the right of me, sporting 'purple shorts' proceeded to throw an elbow across my chest. My thoughts, "You will later pay for that, 'Purple!'" "YOU WILL PAY!!!"

I quickly tucked in and was positioned mid pack amongst the field. Schwabby positioned just a couple spots back on the outside of lane 1/inside of lane 2. Electricity coursing the the air, screaming to the right, screaming to the left, it was an enviroment that could not be matched anywhere else.
As we came through the first lap, hearing the officials shout, "72!!!" The pace was right on. Currently, not even feeling like we were running, I did what I could in staying relexed and zoned out... And at this time, was ahead of Kevo... a rare occurance. As each lap went by, "72!"... "73!"... "72!!", we came through the first mile in 4.50. All the runners bunched in together, it finally began to open up. As the defeated began to fall off the back, one by one, there was one less guy that needed to be dealt with. "Survival of the Fittest".

________The gun goes off, and this time, it would be 'different'. Taking a commanding lead over "Schwabby", as he just... 'chilled'. I continued to push forward, flying throgh the first K in 3.25 (17.05 5k pace, as I only had a pr of 18.04 at the time). I continued to push hard and not relent. By the mile marker, "I felt it". Not giving in, I did not relent, but I knew... I knew 'he' was coming. By 3k and starting to foam at the mouth, Schwabby pulls up beside me. At this point, I did not know he knew anything about me other than, "The slow kid that asked him 307 questions at the Field of Dreams 5k". Schwabby could have just passed me without saying a word, could've gave me the stare down, could have talked smack, heck... he could've threw in a surge to really show 'who was boss'!. To what happened next, caught me off guard. With an overwhelming sense of peppiness, he says, "LET'S GO CLAY!"... first thought, "He knows my name?". "COME-ON BUDDY... LET'S RUN FAST!"

As many would hope of a comradery to form with us sprinting in together, it was not so. As he began to pull away, I was 'maxed' out and could not go with him. As we came upon the last 400 meters, his dad, to which, also knew my name, "GET UP THERE... HELP PUSH HIM!!! MAKE HIM WORK FOR IT! LET'S GO CLAY!!!"

After it was all done and said, I ran 18.17 and as for my new found rival... 18.04, I kid you not. After it was all said and done, Schwabby's dad was gracious enough to come talk to me about running and give me a few pointers. By all means, he genuinely seemed interested in helping me along in my running career and as well, an all around good guy... GREAT GUY!

As the years passed, I improved, but by very little in comparison to my rival. Schwabby thrived and even was being referred to as the "Next Dathan Ritzenhein" (Former American Record holder in the 5k) as he was known amongst many runners in the state. HECK!... Schwabby was so popular he once went into Burger King and ordered a Big Mac... And GOT ONE!

We met a handful of times after the MDA run, only once cathcing him off guard before his substantial improvement. It was not until my last cross country race of my senior year, "The Oklahoma vs Arkansas Dual Meet", that there was a new found motivation in my running to put forth some sort of challenge. It was here that it became evident how dominant Schwabb was. Winning by an astonishing 2x some seconds and hearing people off the sidelines yell, "THAT'S SCHWABBY!"... I could not help but feel proud of this kid. Remembering his early days, and my early days as he was always positive, even though I currently just got CRUSHED. It did not bother me. I was happy for him. HELL... Schwabby even ignored some people and went out of his way to come over and talk to me about the race and everything as I layed sprawled out in exhaustion after the race.

Then, 'it happened'. Just as I was getting ready to head out, a random girl from the girls race comes up to me, "CAN I GET A PICTURE WITH YOU!?"... My response, "Uhg.. You sure you want one?" As the young girl was chirping away to her mom, "This... THIS IS THE KID! (Also, mentioning national rankings, to which, I could not fully understand what she was saying).

After getting hustled into taking a picture, it was not only till a few minutes later... that I realized..

My thoughts... "NO... NO, IT CAN'T BE!? SHE DID!!! SHE THOUGHT I WAS HIM! SCHWABBY!"
*MOTIVATION BACK*... CHECK

That winter, I bumped up my miles to 80 mpw, did the 12x400 meter workout and added 4 each week, up them till I hit 40 of them. I was focused and determined. A couple months later, quickly throwing down a huge pr in late January, an 8.51 3k (9.25-927 3200m equivalent), and to the extent, some Oklahoman's were proclaiming the track "had to be" short. It wasn't. Now holding the fastest time in the state for the next few months to come, I would not go out without a fight. By mid-track season, it becomes evident that Schwabby responds, running 9.22 alone (keep in mind, it's very hard to run fast in Oklahoma. It can be really windy, no competition, and so forth), and apparently, the kid popped two champagne bottles at the finish line this time. My thoughts, "Damn." AND "Impressive".

So, I continued to train. I won state and did not settle there, and I made sure to win every race I entered, aside from losing one 1600m race, to which, was b/c I got caught on the railing and went down towards the end of the race... with that loss, I still won 23 out 24 of my senior year track season races, (12 for 12 at the 3200m distance). Although, I never ran against "Schwabby" that track season, because we were different class sizes, him being 5A, the largest, and me being 3A. BUT... I did have one trick up my sleeve. I knew Schwabby was running at The Nike Outdoor Nationals 5000m this year in mid-June. As I was also competiting in....

_____

Nike Outdoor Nationals 5000m:
8 laps and still a couple strides ahead of Schwabby, there was a push made by one of the runners. This is where the field began to break up into just two handful of runners, as everyone was trying to cover the move. Falling back to 10th place sitting just behind the front pack, which now consisted of
Schwabby. As I was now just a few strides behind him as the racing was coming to a close, "There was my chance to get him, after all these years of being so far behind him. I was now within striking distance". As fate would have it, nothing goes as planned. As Schwabby was striding along, there was that one damn kid... the kid wearing purple shorts. Who proceeded to cut him off. To me, and certainly to Schwabby, it appeared to be intentional.

As I witnessed 'Purple', proceed to make it so obvious that he was doing it on purpuse and causing Schwabby to break stride and then in one instance, almost fall. I was overwhelmed with what was happening. It was then, that I knew how much I respected Schwabby, as my adrenline began to pump, I could not control what I said next, "WATCH IT, PURPLE!!!" Somewhat in shock, the kid immediately quit causing problems, and for whatever reason, fell off the pace.

As the closing laps were passing, Schwabby made a push to volly for the win, coming up just short with a 2nd place finish and earning himself a new pr in addition and the fastest 5000m run by any Oklahoman high schooler up to date! As I finished up at 6th place finish with new pr from 15.53 to 15.11... only a 42 second pr.

Overall, race could not have gone better! Top 6 was All-American, and only the state of Oklahoma had two kids earn All-American honors!

______The race was over, but was just the beginning. As Schwabby and me had a more thorough respect for each other. We each continued to train hard and help each other with running and whatever life brought. It would be a few years later, after a long and drawn out story (Another Day, Another Story), that we are now 'currently' teammates.  To get a true definition of teammates, one must view this video... to see how squirrels join together as packs, families, to defend one another from outside predators: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZp_nX3g9Ec&feature=related


Schwabby currently holds the Oklahoma high school state record in the 3200m and 5000m, as well as, earning All-conference 3 times in the Big 12. And recently placing very well amongst the top collegiates in the nation in the most recent NCAA 10000 meter up in Oregon.

-clay j. mayes the 3rd

Watch

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fk3RahPkOPw&feature=related

Top of My Game

BEFORE continuing to read, please take the time and realize squirrels are people too and perhaps people are squirrels too in some way... Evidence shown here > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wo2-FNfbqYY&feature=related

In life, we all have certain things we're proud about. As a runner, this includes personal best times in races, and/or workouts.

For me, I'm different. As a runner, and if you know me... also, as a person. I move to a different beat of my own drum. First off, I don't like following the norm of things. Rather, I will make my own way. Since I can remember, this has included wearing a ridiculously big wristband... Yes, people. I know. It's dorky wearing pink gloves at races, and at my more important meets, sporting blue sunglasses that had yellow flames on the side with the writing, "Hotwheels." My reasoning(s)... Chicks dig it.

Back on topic:

To non-runners, many just think running... is well, 'running.' It can actually be very complicated. If one sees me out and about on a run, you are not seeing the true colors to running. It is when you do not see me, when 'work' is being done. Whether it be me at the track, a race, or doing intervals at some non-populated area to keep track of splits for timed intervals, or tempos. As for the Tempo aspect of running, they can be tough for oneself to hold a particular 'high' heart rate for a fixed amount of time, which ensures you WILL suffer for that set amount time, oh... 'the joy of running'. Tempos can vary from 3 to 10 miles typically. Of course with a proper warm-up and cool-down that can sometimes add several miles to the total. Pace can range from 4.45 mile pace to 5.30 pace. As for intervals, this is where it gets complex in the running world.

Intervals among many 'elites' in the world can vary greatly. This is where my post gets going. In my training, I like to 'experiment.' I like to run up to 160 miles a week, which is rarely done, and in this case, do 'lots' of intervals.

Last winter, I was seeing the effects of doing a lot of 400 meter repeats. Simply with 1 minute of rest in-between and then proceed to start the next repeat and so forth. My reasoning for doing so is simple. Among many runners, there is a well known 'fictional' running book. It entails details of a runner by the name of Quenton Cassidy, doing crazy training of 160 miles a week (I beat him there, did a couple weeks over 160) and doing 60 total 400 meter repeats. Well, I wanted to beat him in that aspect too. So, I told a friend in 4 weeks I would destroy his workout and beat him by one 400 meter repeat! This is what entailed in our conversation when I told my friend, who was also a fellow runner:

Friend: "Clay... You do realize this is about a 'fictional' runner... right?!"

Me: "It's personal between me and Quenton Cassidy!"

Friend: "He's NOT real."

Me: "You're not real."

Friend: "You're playing this game again?"

Me: "You're a game!"

Friend: "Anyways, when are you doing this workout?"

Me: "4 weeks, I'm going to do 20 repeats the first week and add 10 repeats each week." As I then proceeded to think to myself...with school and everything, and this being over winter break, this was my opportunity to De-thrown Quenton Cassidy!!! Muhahaha!!!!

Friend: "Clay, you're doing it again. You think you're talking to yourself, but you're not. You're talking out loud... again. And hey man, what's with the evil laugh. Where did that come from!?"

Me: Shut up, whore!

Friend: "Why do I hang out with you?"

Me: "GREAT question!"

FOR VIEWING PLEASURE, PLEASE RIGHT CLICK AND ADD AS A NEW TAB FOR BACKGROUND MUSIC:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4e94y4EjWGs

As the first week of 20 repeats came, no prob! It's also important to note, all repeats HAD to be 70 seconds or faster, ALL repeats had to be or they didn't count. Then came 30 repeats... in which, half the team didn't believe I was going to do them, so they came out at the local track and supported me... at 11 o'clock... at night... on a random Tuesday. All of the guys knew the statistics, 70 flat and NO MORE than 60 seconds rest in-between repeats.

Teammate just before repeat # 17: "Clay.."

Me: As I was taking a couple deep breaths, breathing in for the next repeat, "What?"

Teammate: "55 seconds rest currently...You gotta go!"

With a simple, and slightly evil stare, as if to say, "I know where you live!" I took off for repeat 17.

My teammate turns to another guy on the team... "Clay's doing it again... he thinks he's talking to himself, but he's actually saying that out loud... AND (For the record, and to what I was later told, a slight head shake in wonder)..."Clay lives with me... of course he knows where I live.."

By repeat 28, one teammate says in a stone cold face, "Clay, I believe."

To which, it was 2 degrees out, there's not much more he could say... Personally, I think he meant to say more... like,  "Clay, I believe squirrels are the greatest things ever, they ARE God's little babies! YOU WANT ONE AS A PET 'TOO'!? Why yes Clay, my mom is available this Saturday!"

The next week of 40 repeats I would be alone, except for the company of a couple kids I trained doing a fixed number of intervals with me. (BTW, ALL 3 that were there, balled it up that upcoming track season... I know my stuff, what can I say!) *cough* "CLAY, you're doing it again. You keep thinking you're not talking to yourself, but you're talking out loud," says a friend sitting right by me, as I type this current entry.

Now, as I write this to you, I've got bad news and good news... "What do you want to hear first?"

"The bad news?"

"Okay"

"Turns out Geico is totally full of shit! AND you can NOT save 15% on your car insurance!"

...Now, the Good news?

"Okay, I lied... Both things are bad news."

Unfortunately, after I did 40 repeats, I was not able to go for 61 400 meter repeats (And may I remind you, to CRUSH Quenton Cassidy's 60 times 400 meter repeat workout) the week after I 'attempted' 50 repeats. Oklahoma received a huge ice storm and I had to resort to doing an on and off type interval workout on the roads, 'Woah is me'.

But... I will discuss my 'attempt' of doing the 50 times 400 meter repeat workout.

Frist off, I was home. So naturally, I went out to my Club's track and did the workout there, as well as, having the company of the same handful of kids I was training.

With temp's in the 50's, no wind, it was PERFECT. Rocking the pink gloves, bright yellow running shorts, a long sleeve nike under armor tee, and a new addition to 'my style'... long white tube socks... I was ready to go! One by one, I lined up for each repeat. Naturally, getting this routine perfect- a few steps over to the line, left foot just two inches before the line, knees bent, a good lean forward, and a simple clicking of the watch to signal the timing of the interval, followed by striding out, as I glided around the track repeat after repeat. There was a pulse, an electric static in the cool crisp air. People from the club buzzing around, talking about life, school, and how big of a whore Suzzy Q. was.

By 26 repeats, I was alone and no longer had the company of fellow runners.

By 30 repeats, naturally, the mind starts to play tricks on you... HECK... I can barely count to 30, let alone continue for another 20 repeats... "DEAR BABY JESUS!"

Although, something was different. I was rolling off 70 flat or faster on the repeats, yet, not exerting a great deal of effort. I later figured out, after 4 weeks of 400 meter repeats... my body adapted to the new stimulus, and to what I call "fit". I love this feeling. Personally, this is one of the greatest pleasures in life.

As I kept my stern focus, solemnly running lap after lap, people finishing their cooldowns began to sit trackside and wonder,  "What the hell is he still doing?!" As another person chimed up, "That's Clay, he's weird.".... Others asking, "What do you mean?" With no time to waste, "Well, he likes long walks on the beach, bubble baths, and reads romantic novels... as well as, having an obsession with squirrels, and proclaiming, "THEY ARE GOD'S LITTLE BABIES!!!.. He also sent me this youtube clip 'randomly' about squirrels... it was WEIRD!" (--youtube clip to be included at end of post--)

With just several repeats to go, the gloves are off... literally along with my long-tee, so it now stands... I sported running shorts and righteous tube socks for the remaining repeats. As the last several repeats were coming to a close, I started rolling....running 68... 67's... and a few 66's on the last 20% of the repeats... I would not be phased by this workout. In between those intervals, I was now talking to my club coach who just got back from his cooldown and was done talking to all the parents and fan fare he receives... 'he receives a lot, let me tell you.'

As the workout is coming to a close, I finish strongly and without too much trouble. My current thoughts, Quenton Cassidy, You will be mine! Just then, on the track itself, a friend pipes up... "GEEZUS, CLAY, YOU ALWAYS TALK OUT-LOUD WHEN YOU THINK YOU'RE NOT. I REALLY DON'T THINK YOU KNOW THE MEANING OF TALKING TO YOURSELF.... with an awkward pause in time and a look of embarrassment... the convo is finished with a, "WOW."

As I grabbed my gear and headed home, I proceeded to stop by the local convenient store and stuff my face with 3 chocolate milks, a bag of peanuts, and then later on in the drive stop by Subway for a sub... Oh, let me say, I eat because I'm happy, I'm happy because I eat!


Youtube clip that was being talked about, and said to be 'weird'... it's not... it's AWESOME!!... VIEW HERE>-- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qb8JytAxLa4&feature=related


-clay j. mayes the 3rd

My True Beginning

I would like to apologize for the delay. So, here is my favorite running clip... p.s. it gets good after the first minute.... www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZHBSBG7RSs


Before I go into/write greater detail about my running and everything, I feel I should give credit where it is due.

Here's background music...leave playing while you read the rest of this post....   (cut and paste to another tab) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTQ3MNPxyfA&feature=av2e


So, in a Ron Burgundy voice: In the year 2000, the month of October, I was running the Tulsa Zoo Run 5k held at Mohawk Park in Tulsa. As a young 13 year-old kid, I sported a cheezy bead-like necklace, gym shorts, and a Race for the Cure t-shirt, in which, I thought was cool at the time and cut off the sleeves... it was 15 degrees out (Okay, perhaps it was more like in 20's. Regardless, It was cold for a young tike, like myself).

As the gun went off, I started my classical move by 1k and started picking off the local wanna-be elites. There was the idiot who always took off too fast, "When will you learn that taking off in a sub 60 400m is not going to work this time, nor anytime for that matter?!" Then came about rivilaries between two runners who would tactically surge against each other and be oblivious to everyone else, "Later, chumps!". Then there was the random squirrel that ran out in front of me, "Harold (that was his name), it's 15 degrees out! Get home and get warm!"

By 3k there was the 'stronger' of the local elites, and it included the top women of the race. Roughly 2 miles in, I spot a big red headed guy... "I'm losing to 'that' guy?!"

A sense of emergency is brought forth to pick up the pace..."I am not losing to him!"

Quickly closing the gap, I pull up beside him just before the 4k and then proceed to surge up the only hill on the course. What do you know, he sticks to me. I was starting to regret having a McDonald's breakfast at that time. A gut full of pancakes and hashbrowns, I continued to push forwad none the less... As well as my new big red-headed rival, to what appeared to be the linebacker of all runners. Coming around a turn, signaling roughly 1/2 a mile left, I continued to push as hard as my 13 year-old able body would allow, as a small cool breeze picked up, clouds covered the sky creating a solem mood...and without a hint of sweat (it was 15 degrees in all), I started to sprint (in actuality, this was only a 530 mile pace). Coming down the last straight-a-way, I looked back. Now, this wasn't a quick peak... this was the full on, Lance Armstrong look into the eyes of Jan Ulrich. "I got him!" With just a 100 meters left, the wheels started to fall off, "DAMN IT, MCDONALDS! EVERY TIME I REGRET EATING YOU!!!"

With just a short gap of 'race' left, my friend starts coming in strong! With just a small gasp of life left, a quick step in and perhaps, only beating my new found rival... by a gut full of pancakes and hashbrowns.

Delirious, as I was after every race, I thought of only one thing... "McD's was totally worth it!" 15 minutes later and hurling, "I hate you McDonalds!"

Later during the awards, as all the runners gathered inside a tent, to which, didn't have much warmth, other than the heat put off by the runners themselves... I awaited my award. I WANTED THAT AWARD! I loved medals at this time, and especially if they were unique. Not some peice of cra... excuse me... not the 'cheap' kind that you would see in your local running magazine advertising "89 cents a medal for so and so amount purchased"... they were a 'peice'.

As I waited there, all the runners waiting for the 15 minute per mile walkers to come in. I waited and waited... and froze. Being just under 100 lbs at the time, I didn't create much warmth. My rival, comes over to me, "HEY! I'm Mike! I'm with Jenks America Track Club! What's your name?!" As I stood there shivering, all I noticed was the massive hoody he had on...with the saddest face and simple thought, "That hoody looks sooooooooo warm." Perhaps reading my face, or perhaps, seeing me shiver, he quickly pulls off his triple x-large hoody (okay, it was more like a large) and says, "Here ya go, put this on!" Thank God!

Still a bit pale from the race and the cold, "My name's Clay, people call me Mud." As for the nickname Mud, Another Day, Another Story. Mike speaks up, "You're a really tough kid! You would not give up out there!"

I was soon asked, the all too common question amongst runners, "What do you do for training?"

One may wonder what went through my mind when he asked that question. Well... let me tell you!

*clears throat*

In 4th grade, I remember stuffing my face with sour straws ( a GREAT kind of candy), to such an extent, that I got sick and then some!
5th grade I remembered drinking so much coke at a high school home football game, that I not only pissed excellence, but the coke itself too.

In 6th grade, I became a legend in dodgeball and almost went pro. Oh! and I ate a lot of candy too!

Upon those thoughts, what did I actually say, "Ugh, I just run road races here and there... and play soccer."

Mike: "That's great, I'd love to have you out at Jenks America practice. You just kept fighting today... You can do great things in running, if you stick with it!"

Well, we talked for quite a while about running and what not, but I was unsure. As the months went on, I would go to a practice once in a blue moon. Mike would call me every so often to check in, "Clay! How's running going?"

My thoughts half the time, "I 'literally' have a hangover from all the skittles I've consumed in the past 3 hours, let me tell you, this is no joking matter."

By February of my 7th grade year, Mike's persistence went through. Started the season as a 5.44 miler, ended up with a 5.10 at Hershey's National meet up in Pennsylvania. As well as going from a high 19's in the 5k, to a 17.24 from February to September. I was now a runner. Although, I let go of sports like football, basketball, and so forth, I still stuck it out in soccer.

I still trained by myself for the most part, running through town... causing mischief and mayhem, people wanting to know what I was doing... as a nice young lady pulls up beside me on a run, "Hey kid, do you need a ride home or something?"

Me: "Nah, I'm good."

The lady confused as to why I was running.... proceeds to ask, "What exactly are you doing?"

Me: "To tell you the truth, I'm going home."

Now, drawn into the matter...

Lady: "Where's home?"

Me: "New York"

On another day, and just a couple summers ago, it would be the local cop that would shoot the questions:

"Hey bud, what are you doing?"

Keep in mind, when he asked this question it was 1 in the morning and I wanted to get home... and be left alone...

Me: "I'm running from the law!"  -----      (The cops were NOT amused by my humor)

As years passed, cops become friendly and waved, rather than question me. Random people no longer questioned my running... Rather, they now threw stuff. It made running 'interesting'.

As time went on, and my club coach routinely called to, "See where I was at." I would always be glad to chime back. At different times, I was running really well, and at other times, not so much.

But Mike's persistence, kept me going. Always being positive, always expecting the best. Routinely, Mike asks me during the winter and summer break to come talk to the kids (the track club he runs). Everytime I do, as a solid 50 kids coming from all parts of the state gather, in which, they will just stare at you and expect some magical wisdom (it is also important to note...they can smell fear). Well, Mike always, and I mean always, opens up with a 30 minute speech, and if you don't know Mike... he is VERY good with words. Typically, I'm just like, "WHAT HE SAID!" Okay, I say a 'little' bit more.

Mike also instilled a very different training style and mentality into me. I know I'm not the most talented guy out there, "that is fine...  I'm content with what I've been given." But, that doesn't mean I won't do something about it. As my senior xc year was coming to a close, it was far from perfect. I did more intensity, more miles. After years of seeing me train, Mike knew what I could and could not handle. He started me off with 12x400m repeats at 70-71 (1 min. rest). I would do so regulary every monday. Each week, I added 4 repeats...until I hit 40...same day, same pace, same everything, week to week. Each time I would come back stronger, and then started the 'good' time. Going from a 15.53 5k kid to 15.11 by Nike Outdoor Nationals, I would consider that a success.


Okay, so, this post may or may not be to some people's liking. It's a bit different, I know. But it is a necessity to have before I continue to post. The moral to this is, everyone can get to the finish in their own way, and on that way, I would like to give credit where it is due... To someone that has stuck with me through thick and thin, driving me to meets several hours away...  And on those meets, griping me out for getting a C in trig. "It's important to be well rounded in life." So many people proclaim multi-million dollar athletes as their heroes, which is a complete joke. In terms of who should be dubbed a hero, It's good parents (first), then beyond that, it's people like Mike. People that don't get paid to do it, yet, give so much back to the world. Never tearing others down, but rather do what is the hardest thing to do in today's world... Leading by good example.

To clarify what I'm further going to put on here: Once the end of November comes, I will put every detail of my training on here... every detail. I plan on starting at 20 400m repeats every week and add 4 as each week passes... goal is to get above 60. Current pr is 50, which was last winter (I was suppose to discuss this today, but I'll do it another time :). During this time- till Novermber, I will share stories and where I believe my fitness to be, as well as, some training here and there.

But if anyone really wants to know of my exact training before I hit 1/2 marathon training and above come november... feel free to email me at mud.mayes@gmail.com I will be glad to answer all questions.

Oh ya...in tribute to Harold...wherever he is these days... (cut and paste into your browser)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWNDOqmYuto

Last thing to note, Mike was a baller in college. Split a 46 in the 400m (not bad for a white guy) and split a 1.46 a relay (ran 1.47.1 open 800m)... He also played collegiate football and almost went pro in the NFL. Went to the preseason training camp and made the cut, heart wasn't in it and now makes bank as Geologists and coaches over 100 kids at any point in the year. Impressive.

The secret to running is Borden Chocolate Milk.

-clay j. mayes the 3rd

I Almost Cried, "Almost"

Okay, so ya, I believe the title speaks for itself. Now, one may wonder... "Why?"

I've always been a tough-natured kid. Whether it be running a ridiculous workout (I was going to post about one workout in particular, but I decided to go with this one. I'll get to the other one in the near future), putting in 140 mile weeks, and at times, much more. Hell... I've even eaten broccoli... once.

As I've discussed in my previous post, I've been injured. Call it bad luck, or perhaps a fate to which will make me stronger in the long run... "I do not know."

So, I've been trying 'things' to get healthy as quick as possible and decrease my prescription of, "Two months totally off," says the Doc. I've been to two physicians, a couple chiropractors... I have tried everything!

Just recently, out of the blue... A 'nice' friend of mine knows 'a place'. He suggested I give it a try... (with a 'sly' smile), a physical therapy place. This place has also used by the runners Ryan Hall (2008 Olympic Marathon Trials champ), Meb Keflezighi (Olympic 2004  Marathon silver medalist). I've been through a little physical therapy in my life, "No sweat." A little stretching, throwing around a ball, and perhaps, a few jokes about what happened in our daily lives.

Me: "So at work today, a bunch of squirrels took my cookies."

Former therapist: "Dude, I'm having a hard time believeing that."

Me: "I'm telling you, THEY DID!"

Former therapist: "Says the kid who believes squirrels are on top of the food chain."

ME: "THEY ARE." Proof-  www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFWeldHtJgI&feature=related  (viewer discretion advised)


Back to the matter at hand:

As I make my call to schedule my appointment,

Me: "Hey, I hear you guys are good, can I get an appointment?"

--"Haha... Yes sir, you can. What time works for you?"

Me: "When's your earliest opening?"

--"Ive got an opening tomorrow at 5?"

Me: "Great, I'll see you then!"

As the next day comes about, with a slight hitch in my stride (thank you busted hip flexor and now IT band problems), I made the drive over to my appointment. Which is in the great city of Boulder... Yes, I gave you my location, live it up, this will be the only time.

Once I found the place, to my surprise, it didn't have flashing signs, people sprinting in and out. It just was a simple little office on the 2nd floor on top of a running store. "Huh."

As I walk up the stairs, opening the office door and greeted with a smile and the words, "Hi! You must be Clay."

My thoughts, "Wow, that's impressive! They know my name!"

My physical therapist was a very nice girl, who was also a runner herself, a good one too!

So, after some joking around, and describing the injury. I'm good to get my injury worked on.

I get stretched out for several minutes.... "Hey, this isn't too bad!"

(This part of the appointment spans over the next 45 minutes)

"Okay Clay this is giong to be 'uncomfortable'. So just let me know if you need a break when I'm working on your leg. The muscles that are damaged are beneath other muscles. So, it's going to be a deep tissue massage. It can be a sensitive area for whoever's being worked on, just letting you know."

With a smile, I say "Ya, no problem at all"  (Pfff, like 'I' would need a break)

Keep in my mind, my hip and IT BAND area were damaged and sore at this time. That being said, with all her force and weight... 'digging' in... I 'INSTANTLY', went into a unbelievable shock of pain. "BABY JESUS, HELP ME".

Within seconds, I start breaking out in a sweat. Barely able to breathe....

Therapist: "Are you okay, Clay?"

At the time, having trouble to muster words, "Ye...ah"... 'I wasn't.'

As the laws of physics are being defied by the appointment, in which, time is standing still. I swear at one point I saw the clock go backwards! I SWEAR!

As the treatment goes on, and the continued digging into my hip area proceeds, which by the way is being ripped apart... I begin to remember all the good things in life. That did NOT include 'this'.

As the almost insurmountable pain goes on, drenched in sweat, fists clinched, "Clay, do you need a drink of water?"

Me: "I... I... I'm good." (There goes my ego talking again...Man.. I hate that guy!)

Perhaps trying to make me feel better, perhaps b/c it looked like I was dying... My therapist says, "They say with this type of therapy and how sensitive it is, it's worse than child birth."

On a side note: "Thank God, I don't have child bearing hips, WHEW!"


After what seemed like forever, the appointment is done. I'm laying there, all self-respect lost, soaked in my own sweat... "Oh, ya, I can breathe now."

Me: "Wow, that was... to put it simply, miserably painful."

Therapist: "Ya, we are completely different from most physical therapy places. We're very hands on. Okay, treatment two."

Me: "Ugh... Treatment... TWO!?"

Therapist: "Clay, how do you feel about needles?"

Me: "Nee... nee... Needles?!"

Therapist: "Okay, what we're going to do next is acupuncture."

With no time at all, needles are being inserted 3 plus inches deep. My body is beginning to rebel perhaps because it's 'literally' being stabbed. As my therapist continues to open another pack of needles, one after another... and another... Sticking each needle in with ease, to which my muscles pull and contract in anger, as if my muscles were saying, "What did we do to you!? Why Clay, WHY!?"

After being 'stabbed' numerous times, my therapist leaves them in and says,  "I'll be right back, they need to stay in there for just a bit."

My thoughts: "A BIT?!"

As I lay there, looking to the side to witness the damage, "Wow, I can count over 20 needles jabbed in my right leg."

A little later, she takes them out and of course, my legs/muscles start to contract and pull in a painful motion... "GREAT!"

Then, as I'm lying there, a few patches that are hooked up to wires are then placed on my leg. A machine is then turned on sending strong electrical currents throughtout the whole leg. This is known as Stem therapy (I think), as my leg experiences an overwhelmingly powerful tingling feeling, to which, travels through my body for the next 20 minutes...

AND THEN...

I am finished. This... 'This' is where I almost cried, "I was happy."

As everything is being wrapped up, "So, when would you like to have your follow-up appointment?"

My thoughts, "Pssshhh... Like I'm going through this again!"

Then these words come out of my mouth, "Next wednesday at 5 works for me." My thoughts upon saying that, "Who is that guy! I certainly would not have said it... after all that!"

Therapist: "Wednesday it is."

My thoughts: " :( "

That being said, as I headed out... "Wow, I got some mobility back in my leg... did that really work?!"

I may be jumping the gun, and perhaps, it's hard to say, because I've been out almost two weeks and have not come close to being able to run... "I think I can run tomorrow." This would have been unbelievable just a few hours ago...

Stay tuned to see if this crazy therapy worked!

Also: Some people have been requesting my training to be a little more 'specific'. So...

The last 6 days have consisted of 2 plus hours of aqua jogging and biking (last two days have been all aqua jogging in which, I do hard intervals in aqua jogging... getting my heart rate even past 180 in the workout on intervals). "All Day, Every Day"

Through and through keep in mind, my primary goal is to get a Marathon Trials qualifier out of the way by next March. (Trials marathon is held January 2012 in Houston)... Another Day, Another (Aqua) Mile

Also: www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cCFn55Zxkc&feature=related  < click

-clay j mayes the 3rd

Aqua Jogging, My Low Point

At any point in an athlete's career, one is sure to have a low point. Currently, I have a torn hip flexor, and it's been borderline hell dealing with and now 'just' cross training to stay somewhat fit.

Obviously, a low point can be classified in many ways, but in my way, it's 'different'.

As I write this next entry, please be sure to take into account 'my humor'. First off, even in bad times, I can usually joke around and keep a somewhat upbeat attitude about the current situation.... That being said:

After checking my options, the best thing I can do is aqua jog. What is aqua jogging you may ask? Agua jogging is also known as hell among injured athletes, in which, one puts on a floatable foam belt (typically, in a 'pretty' baby blue color), to which, a person is then easily able to stay upright in a simming pool. "Then what?" Then you proceed to run in the water. Typically the head and part of the shoulders are above water and one must stay thoroughly focused to move your arms and legs in a runinng-like motion. And it 'can' get the heart rate up and to some degree, stimulate running. Personally, I am able to get my heartrate up to over 200 beats a minute while on hard runs, and during agua jogging, about 160-180 beats per minute... "So, this will have to do".

As I make my way down to the local pool with a fellow friend in the area, which sits at 6000 feet elevation, I begin to wonder what workout I'll do. I decide on 10 minutes warmup (like 70% running effort in the pool), then 1 minute hard, 2 minutes hard, 3 minutes hard and then repeat 5 times (80-95% effort). And in-between hard sets, 1 minute easy at 70% effort.

Upon arrival, I see it's a country club pool with a lot of... "kids", 'Great'. As we enter the pool area, this is what I see: Kids running around and yelling, lauging, mingling from all directions, moms chit chatting about local gossip, dads saying nothing, as if to say, "this... this is what my life has become?!". There's also an overabundance of lifeguards... like 15. And "No", that's not an exaggeration. As I take a deeper look, I begin to see the kids appear to have their own coalitions. The cool kids, the nerds, the rich kids, and of course, evil little 'Timmy'.

As I fully take this all in, within a matter of moments, I turn to my friend and non-chalantly say,

"This is my low point".

As my friend is used to such a setting, living in the neighborhood, he responds with, "What?"

(With half a smile) "This is my low point in my career. It can't get any worse."

As I threw on my belt, which probably looked like a heavy weight boxing belt to the kids that looked on in wonderment, wondering what the 'big' kid in bright yellow running shorts was doing.


THIS IS THE TIME IN THE BLOG WHERE YOU TURN UP THE VOLUME ALl THE WAY UP ON YOUR COMPUTER AND SPEAKERS, AND RIGHT CLICK THIS LINK AND USE IT FOR BACKGROUND MUSIC. YOUR READING EXPERIENCE WILL BE BENEFICIAL IF DONE CORRECTLY. www.youtube.com/watch?v=uY3LAFJbKyY

I proceeded to hop in the pool with one thought, "Let's go". As I start my workout (also, when one aqua jogs, they move about 1 mph forward, serious) , focusing to the best of my abilities, "SPLASH!" as a young kid jumps in front of me and I get a small wave of water splashed in my face (also known as a "bitch slap" amongst the kids in the pool). With a smile, I think, "It happens, he's just a kid."

Now, It's time to start doing my hard timed intervals, as my legs quicken, arms cutting through the water with ease, "SPLASH!", as the 'same' kid jumps right in front of me, 'again'... with a smug look, but still in my mind, "Hey, remember... he's just a kid."

As I'm now starting to become more and more used to this, "aqua jogging" thing. No longer feeling 'too' awkward. At 20 minutes, in the corner of my eye, I notice a couple little girls pointing and whispering about me... as if they've never seen an agau jogger?!

"SPLASH!"... as the same kid, jumps right out in front of me... "IS HE DOING THAT ON PURPOSE?!"... "No, no, surely, he's not... again... he's 'just' a kid."

As I come through the halfway point in my 75 minute pool workout, I can feel my heart beat increasing, my breathing is starting to quicken, "Hey this isn't such a bad workout!"... My shoulders are starting to burn, hamstrings are tightening, quads feeling like they've been put through a hard hill run... and at that moment, I notice in the corner of my eye, the 'same' kid looks at me very quickly and jumps right out in front of me, "SPLASH!", "DAMN IT, HE IS DOING IT ON PURPOSE!!!" "COME-ON MAN!!!" I can't take these kids anymore! Why do people have kids!...

5 minutes later....

"Hey, Clay, this is your conscious... just remember, he's just a kid... Okay, I'm cool... It's all good"






"SPLASH"...

"I'LL KILL HIM!"




5 minutes later, I hear the kid's mom chime in,

"Hey Timmy, it's time to go".

I think, "So, Timmy is the name of the spawn of satan."

Timmy: "But I don't won't to leave my new friends!!!"

My thoughts: "FRIENDS?!!?! THIS KID IS TRULY A MASTER OF TORTURING SOMEONE PHYSCIALLY AND 'NOW' MENTALLY!!!"... Impressive.

As Timmy is escorted out of the pool area, with his mom forcefully pulling him away, I can't lie, "It was the 4th most happiest moment of my life". As for the other 3 moments, 'Another Day, Another Story."

That being said, as I'm chopping away at my pool workout, I still notice those same girls looking at me, and whispering. My thoughts, "Whatever."

As I hear the lovely sounds of the diving board throwing kid after kid into the air, into the water, kids running, yelling, screaming in a sense of ecstasy... "3/4ths done with this workout, then I'm free... FREE!"

And then one of the girls gets the courage to come to the poolside as I passed by, at my ferocious speed of 1'point'3 miles per hour. The little girl pipes up, "Whatcha dooooiin?".

Me: "Aqua jogging."

Kid: "Why"

Me: "It's a good workout, since I can't run."

Kid: "Why?"

Me: "B/c I can't run currently."

KId: "Why?"

Me: "I injured my leg a few days ago and can't run."

Kid: "OKAAAY"

The kid runs off to her friend, to reveal all the information she just learned... "Kids."

As the workout goes on, even the lifeguard begins to wonder what I'm doing. Getting curiously questioned, "What I'm up to"... and oddly, "What I'm doing later" gets brought up.

Questions are answered accordingly.

'Again', the same young girl comes up to me, and throws me one heck of a curveball... Perhaps, THE most random question I've ever received.

Without hesistion she asks, "My friend wants to know if you want to get married?"

As witty as those little kids are, and in the midst of trying to finish a workout... I pipe back, "YA, of course I want to get married! *pause* at least a few times."

The girl doesn't say anything.... for several seconds... "A few times?"

Me: "Yep, at least a few times, it looks like fun!"

She then gives a half nod and runs back over to her friend...

My thoughts: "That should keep them confused for a while."

As I finish up the last several minutes of the pool run and get out of the pool, "I'm glad that's over!"

I quickly dry off, and head out... "What, no funny ending?", "What happened with the lifeguard?" "Did the two little girls track me down as I was leaving?"

The world is left with many unasnwered questions.

-clay j. mayes the 3rd