Matt Gabrielson's Journal

May 8, 2008 (Posted May 15, 2008)

So old Gabrielson has been busy as of late with travel, high school track and field, the part, part-time running store gig, and of course training.

I have taken on a new responsibility as track and field super meet announcer. Last night was the Classic Lake Conference Championships hosted by none other than the Edina Hornets. It went as smooth as silk. I tried to implement some of the delivery techniques that Tom Kroeschell did when he announced the Iowa State meet for a number of years. I distinctly remember his voice and the catch phrases he would use and quite simply he was an awesome announcer. I am not saying that I am at that level (although close), but I did get quite a few compliments including one from a Minnetonka young lady who made her way up to the press box following the meet and proceeded to tell me that it was the most fun meet she had been to in high school because of the announcing. Boo yah!

During the past week I have been taking a different approach to training during the days between hard workouts. Dennis has been telling me for years to take it easy running on the days between hard sessions. Rarely have I done that and the effect has been one of hit or miss on the workout days and even on race day. So I have strapped on the heart-rate monitor and will not go over 145 BPM on these days.

I read a quote once by Mottram’s coach about the grey zone that a lot of runners train in on what are supposed to be recovery days. There is a negative effect if you run in this zone on these days because a runner is not running fast enough to achieve a high end aerobic stimulus, but at the same time is running too hard thus not allowing the body to recover from the previous day or also for the next day. Or something.

Anyway, this makes sense, and I am implementing it. God if only I would have been listening to what Dennis was trying to convey about the easy day over the last six (yes, that’s right six) years. He’s pretty much a frickin’ genius. Hate to say it. Lehm also reminded me that you can’t try to mimic Brian Sell’s day in day out training because there is only one Brian Sell. So easier easy days for everybody - on the house.

Six weeks to go until Eugene and the Olympic Trials. For me, racing has always been a building process particularly with the 5K. The first 5K for me in Palo Alto was too fast for what I was ready for at that time, but the next one will build on that, and the following one on that. Throw in some 1500s and maybe a road 5K and you’ve got the right mix of stuff to be ready to run GREAT races on June 27 and 30. I would bet my left baby blue eyeball that nobody has me on their radar. That’s fine. I always have thrived on being the underdog. Anything can happen on any given day.

Quote of the week:
Don’t take life too seriously. Nobody gets out alive anyway.
-No idea who said this, but so true nonetheless

Album of the week: Unknown Prophets – The Road Less Traveled

Most over-rated NBA player of the week: Of course Kobe Bryant

March 21, 2008 (Posted March 25, 2008)

I’m just sitting here in Minneapolis, Minnesota, waiting for the 11:30 a.m. start time for the Drake - Western Kentucky matchup in the NCAA bball tourney. I’d venture to guess that I am probably a top-10 lock for biggest Drake BBALL fan – I’ve got them winning in four of my pools. It just feels so good to think about the season they’ve had and that they made the tourney for the first time since 1971. They’ve come out of nowhere after being the perennial MVC (Missouri Valley Conference) doormat.

The theme for the season has been ‘believe’ – they certainly have done just that and look where it’s gotten them. This is the greatest thing to happen to Drake University since the 1999 MVC cross country championship was brought back to campus. GO BULLDOGS.

So I have elected to take a chapter out of their beautiful manuscript. ‘Believe’ is the current theme for MG (I have a button on my coat to prove it). This word is engraved on the inside of my forehead. Whenever I blink it is staring at me. I ‘believe’ in what I know will be the end result. I will continue to ‘believe’…when running goes the way I have envisioned or when I absolutely despise it as I did broccoli when I was a little kid. If I ‘believe’ - in myself, my coach, my training, my mental toughness, my teammates, my family, my friends, my faith – things will happen the way they happen.

Andrew also proved this to me recently with his championship run at the Gate River 15K as well as during a NYRR 8K jaunt through Central Park. His season last year was up, down, and down. He will admit this. But he took a step back, woke-up, regrouped, and is reaping the rewards from ‘belief’ (and some seriously hard-core training). He’s a true testament to how much ‘believing’ in oneself can get you where you should be.

So ‘believe’ in yourself dang-it. Who cares what anyone of zero consequence to you thinks? This sport is so much a mental game that I can’t even explain it. Whatever you want to do just ‘believe’ you will and you will. Let me know how it turns out.

January 17, 2008 (Posted January 21, 2008)

I’ve spent a large majority of the past four days trying to figure out what happened last Sunday in Houston. I felt so good through 10K and then really fell apart the last 5 and a half miles - especially mentally. I’ve gone through a variety of emotions, and really was searching for answers when in all reality there probably aren’t any good ones.

Then good old Mackenzie sent me this email and I forgot about everything and anything in this race and started dreaming about the future and what I still have left to accomplish over these next few months. You win some, you lose some, and I’ll get the next one.

From Mackenzie Y. Lobby to Matthew E. Gabrielson:

One of the things I love about running is the risk. For instance, I might devote my entire summer to training for a marathon, sacrificing my favorite pallet neutralizers and saying no to fun social stuff. Then I get to the race and a long list of things can happen......I get a stomach ache, or I fall apart mentally, or the weather isn't ideal, or for some unexplainable reason I just don't do as well as I would have liked (or, say, I fall walking Up some stairs a week prior haha).

I like the risk, though, because the days that everything does fall exactly into place are that much more rewarding. And as for the days and races when things don't go quite right, I still don't regret the journey that took me to that place....the miles of running by myself reflecting on the day ahead of me, the miles of running with other people and enjoying their company, and just the feeling of being outside and feeling healthy and energized.

Those races where the stars don't quite align give me new information as to what to do differently next time. Those races are important and will lead to more successful races in the future. (I don't mean to say our situations are the same, as there is more at stake in your position, I guess I'm just trying to say why I personally love to run......bear with me ;))

As for these cold winter days when you're feeling stuffed up and tired and frustrated, I think these are the times when you have to get back to basics and figure out why you do what you do and why it's important. Running has allowed you to challenge yourself in ways that most people never experience. It has brought you around the world. It has given you incredible relationships with your coaches and teammates. And it has allowed you an outlet for your competitive spirit. It doesn't need to be some deeply fundamental thing about running itself that keeps you coming back for more.....it can be the residual benefits of professional competition that motivate you.

Regardless of what it is, you are great at what you do....maybe not every day, but in the scheme of things you are great. And whenever you begin questioning what you do, think of the things that running has given you, but also the person it has allowed you to become and the experiences it has prepared you for in the future. Your time as a professional runner will leave its mark on everything you do in the future. It shapes you and makes you into a hardworking, ethical person and those are two of the most important things you can be.

I guess I'm just saying these things because I've heard you say that running professionally is a selfish endeavor and you aren't sure why you run. All of the good things that you do in your life and all of the people that you influence will be directly related to your character.....and running has had a big hand in the development of that character. I guess I just don't want you to underscore the importance of what you are doing because it has and will continue to make you who you are.

The best part of that is the road ahead of you. While there will be more days of running in subzero temperature with a nose full of snot and a plugged-up head, there will also be more races where you feel goals have been met and ideas of what you saw as your future in the sport will be realized.

December 15, 2007 (Posted December 17, 2007)

When I was a little guy, I definitely was one of the most competitive people in the United States. I can remember playing two-on-two baseball (using tennis balls) in the backyard with my two brothers and our neighbor Ryan Paulsen. We built this mini baseball field complete with sand at each of the bases and a home run fence. My dad was even able to obtain a huge light from the old high school football field set that was being replaced at the time. It was a glorious field.

Anyway, we always intended to play five-inning games. I would venture to guess that we finished about five percent of those games. The other 95 percent of the time, the games were not completed due mostly in part to the tirades I would go on if my team was not winning. I still can remember vividly how much I wanted to win these games. Usually by about inning 2 ½, I was beating the heck out of whichever one of my brothers was on the opposite team. This probably happened for a variety of reasons be it not making a play, or wearing the wrong colored shirt. Needless to say the games would end with both of my brothers hating me, and poor Ryan going home confused and wondering what just happened. After, I would end up having to play one on one baseball sometimes hitting the rest of the tennis balls we had onto the neighbor’s roof. Most likely, it would have been more fun to not get mad, keep everyone around, and try to win (or even complete) a few games.

Fast forward to 2007-2008…I am in my late 20s, I am closer to the end than the beginning of my racing career, and in running circles the most important of years is upon us with the Olympics happening in Beijing. I often wonder if I have lost a little bit of the competitiveness that used to flow through my veins at a younger age. I’m pretty certain that I do not want to go off the deep end as I used to in the backyard, but I really want that competitive, need to win at all costs mentality to rear its head a lot this next year. I want to race faster; I want to gun for the win(s) (though sometimes third is just as special), and I want to end up saying I attempted to race as strongly as I possibly could.

Coach DB always says that running is NOT 90 percent mental and 10 percent physical (or whatever percentages) as some contend. Dennis believes and instills in me that racing is 100 percent MENTAL AND 100 percent PHYSICAL. There is a crucial point in every race when one must attempt something the mind is ok with, but the body isn’t fond of doing or vice versa. At this point, a high probability exists for the race to be made or broken. This is the time to talk the talk and reach for the stars.

I’ve been training hard, fast, and long for the better part of the last decade. Along the way, there have been ups, and Lord knows, there have been downs. It is time to do everything in my power over this next year to bring out the competitiveness that rests deep within and to get 100 percent out of myself PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY in races. Undoubtedly, that will allow me to reach my goals. My teammates here in Minnesota will be doing the same and I truly hope you will be as well. Believe, believe, believe. Here’s to a heck of a 2008!

October 19, 2007 (Posted October 24, 2007)

This tune below pretty much describes how I’ve attacked my running career. What the future has in store for me beyond next year I am not certain. Nevertheless, I am willing - more than one can imagine – to give myself the chance to continue to rise up in this sport! All the best, my friends, may the days ahead be full of life.

RISE by Eddie Vedder

From the motion picture Into the Wild

Such is the way of the world

You can never know

Just where to put all your faith

And how it will grow?

Gonna rise up

Burning black holes in dark memories

Gonna rise up

Turning mistakes into gold

Such is the passage of time

Too fast to fold

Suddenly swallowed by signs

Lo and behold

Gonna rise up

Find my direction magnetically

Gonna rise up

Throw down my Ace in the Hole

The fall has been good to Old Gabrielson. My past week of running has been solid, so I really hope you take something away from the sample of training I have included in this entry.

Also, don’t be fooled by some of the Dennis Barker interviews, articles, etc. being done for the upcoming Marathon Trials. Dennis may come off as a very soft-spoken, meticulous, patient, trustworthy, kind, caring man and coach. Well, there’s more to it than what is being portrayed . He’s more than willing to take an athlete out back behind the woodshed and smack ‘em around if necessary. He wants what we all want...for people to realize that Minnesota is THE training Mecca.

Monday - in the AM 3 up, 3 down, 32 minutes or so of “threshold” running on undulating, soggy, twisty, grassy, muddy terrain. AKA running in the park. It’s processing nicely, processing nicely. PM 6 EZ with Lehm

Tuesday - from the Cross-town Lifetime Fitness to the LRT. 15 miles with the middle fast.

Wednesday - 11 miles feeling like 140 pounds of fecal matter in a 50 pound sac. Dr. Scott Ellwanger at the Brost Clinic in Wayzata put my frail self back into alignment later on. PM 6 miles again with Lehm, A night and day difference between morning and afternoon training.

Thursday - 3 up, 5 down. Lots of short hill repeat running. Lacking the normal explosiveness on these babies. Must be the 29 year old in me.

PM 7-8 miles EZ around Calhoun. Good eye candy out there tonight.

Friday - AM 10 followed by eating an entire box of blueberry Trader Joes Waffles. PM 5 with strides.

Saturday - Hammered 18 at Hyland Park in 1:48. This is great, great training out here. The best is Lebanon Hills though.

Sunday - EZ 10. And by easy I am talking easy. Now must get ready to watch the Vikings prepare to win the Superbowl. Hopefully, I don’t fall asleep during the game.

August 22, 2007 (Posted August 23, 2007)

Ol’ Gabrielson has lost a bit of fitness and gained a bit of fatness over the past three weeks or so. This is due in large part to not running a whole heck of a lot after taking a hiatus from training to recharge the batteries (mentally and physically). After returning home from Belgium where I spent the month of July, I decided that now was the time to lay low for a bit in order to spend the next few months getting myself ready for ’08.

In Brasschaat I finally PRd at 5K after a less than stellar track seasons the last couple years (which I attribute to training way, way too hard at altitude with Andrew). I regained some confidence in my training and racing after a few decent races over there. I feel like more than ever that everything counts – EVERYTHING.

It’s amazing what one race can do for your entire mindset. Even though I ended up running 13:30 and change and had a feeling of satisfaction after that race, I just feel like there is so much more there. In the back of my mind, I must remember that I am training to run the A-standard next year and racing to gain one of the three coveted spots at 5K for the Beijing games. I really believe that anything can happen and I can be on that team. Why would I think any other way? I pay no attention to anyone thinking my goals are crazy, as long as Dennis and I believe in them that is really, truly all that matters.

On a different note, I am writing this having recently learned that Jenny Crain is in critical condition after being struck by a car while running. I have gotten to know Jenny over the past few years - she is a wonderful person with a huge heart, always ready to offer a word or two or three of encouragement. Please keep Jenny and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

I sign off wishing you all the best.

May 16, 2007 (Posted May 17, 2007)

So I took a little trip over to Mombasa, Kenya, a few months back. Nothing could deter me from representin’ the USA at World Cross – not the thirty-seven vaccinations, malaria pills, typhoid pills, jet lag, security threats, nor even my Grandma’s warnings about violence. I understand why some would choose not to go, but for me it was a no-brainer. The opportunity to compete for Team USA in a world championship of any sort is a big deal plus making the team will become increasingly difficult each year from here on out. Daaaaaaaang, people are running fast in this country.

There is so much I want to write about the trip, but I will leave it at what truly hit home. Visiting Kenya didn’t exactly remind me how fortunate I am, because I already realize I am indeed one lucky human being. I mean I have such a close family, awesome friends, an unbelievable support system, comfortable dwellings…you can’t really ask for much more.

Traveling to Kenya, experiencing the culture, and meeting all the people I was fortunate enough to meet (including those in the USA contingent) simply reinforced that America is a country of blessings. We as Americans have unlimited opportunities to do whatever the heck we want to do and this should never be taken for granted. For the most part in this country one’s success or failure rests solely on one’s own shoulders.

As for the recovery after Kenya – it was a beast due to a combo of things ranging from jet lag to the extremely uncomfortable hot, humid race conditions. It was like a sauna out there. A picture will forever be engraved in my mind of post-race Ryan Shay out cold in the medical tent.

It took me three weeks of just running easy mileage back home to feel normal again. Things are coming along now and I am looking forward to making some noise in the 5K at USAs. Like I mentioned, it seems like everybody and their brothers and sisters are running fast and so I just wanna be like the cool kids.

Dennis has been reinforcing the point that Matt doesn’t have to have the world’s greatest workout each time out. He keeps reminding Matt that it is all about being consistent in sessions and that once in awhile a day will come along when Matt just feels like he’s floating on air. Same thing with the racing…it’s virtually impossible for Matt to PB EVERY time he competes, but Matt will have that GREAT day where all the grueling work and living the lifestyle is justified. Perhaps this happens at the Olympic Trials. Perhaps it happens at the Belmond Fourth of July 5K. Who knows? Wherever and whenever it happens, Matt will be VERY thankful that it does. Possessing this mentality simply makes everything less stressful and puts less pressure on Matt as an athlete. It then becomes that much easier to run fast. After all, relaxation plays a huge role in running fast.

I’ll leave you with a sample of last week’s training. Also, if you happen to read Carrie’s latest thoughts, I apologize to her for leading the charge over that dang snow bank.

Saturday
3wu, 2cd
Fifteententenfive with easy running between…best ever for this workout at the Luce Line.
Thanks to Andrew for showing me what possessing brass really means.

Sunday
3wu, 2cd
Easy 12 miles at the MN River Trails. Beaut’ Clark. Some days it seems like from May to October there is no better place to train in the world than Minnesota.

Monday
AM Easy 10. Bumped into Katie at the Lakes and ran with her for a bit. I felt pretty crappy, but that was probably because it was 90 out. Keep in mind this is May in Minnesota and it’s morning.

PM 5 miles felt frickin’ great
Man, there are some hot chicks at the Lakes when it gets to be 90 degrees. Very happy with the decision to move over this way.

Tuesday
3 wu, cd
Lots and lots of 200s on short rest, in the wind, with the boys. Dear Canada and the Dakotas, Please keep the wind (and cold after March 23) to yourselves!

PM Easy 6 miles. “Minnesota Nice” …sometimes I think this is a myth. Let’s keep the lameness chargin’ yo (I can’t take credit for this).

Win Twins.

January 2007

Happy New Year!!! Here’s to a year full of discovery and optimism.

It has been eight weeks since I attempted to run 2:15 at New York. I did absolutely no running for the 10 days following the marathon and instead got fat and traveled throughout the greatest state in the Union – Iowa.

I ended up running 20 and 30 minutes respectively on the 11thand 12th days after NY. On the 13th and 14th days Gabrielson rested and then hit weeks of 40, 65, 75, 100+ back to back, and then recovered a bit with a low 90s week. This week I am trying to hit 100+ miles with the majority of that at 7000 ft. in Flagstaff, Arizona. Then, it’s time to get to work.

My fitness is coming around slowly, but surely. I have been very patient with my training following that marathon. Over the next 5 weeks, I will try to get into as good a racing shape as possible for the February 10 USA Cross Country Championships in Boulder. I aspire to make that dang team and be the ONLY person in the entire United States to run the 12k at the World Cross Country Championships for three straight years. My first two attempts have not been exactly up to par for me so I yearn to make the third time really count.

Regardless of how hard I am on myself sometimes with race results, I have enjoyed the past year immensely. I traveled all over the world for crying out loud. I have been fortunate enough to meet people with all sorts of different life philosophies. These opportunities have created chances for me to really think outside the box. Steve Plasencia once told me that the running lifestyle is fleeting so always prepare yourself the best way you can for what comes after. I feel that experiencing everything I have these past couple of years has really helped me to decide what I wish to do when it’s time for me to take the next step in my life. Until then, I will just keep plugging away and keep trying to race fast.

Once in a great while, getting out the door for a run is a gigantic task in and of itself. I find this to be especially so following the marathon having spent such a long period of time preparing for the race and then all of a sudden it being done. It created a void, almost like getting released by a girlfriend. So, I am always looking for unique ways to motivate myself. One particular Christmas gift from a special young lady has really created an urge within to go out and just dominate. I was given the Dick Beardsley biography STAYING THE COURSE: A RUNNER’S TOUGHEST RACE with an inscription from Mr. Beardsley himself. If I ever need a kick in the booty to get it going, I will definitely open up this book and read:

To Matt,

Congratulations on a great race at the 2006 NYC Marathon. Keep up the awesome running! Hope you enjoy the book. Take care and God bless.

Dick Beardsley
2:08:53
Boston ‘82

So it’s on to Flagstaff, Arizona. with Kucks, Cash, and #4 for the next few weeks. I’ll be sending updates. I’m really looking forward to altitude headaches to help me become tougher. Best.

November 10, 2006 - Reflecting on the ING New York City Marathon
(Posted November 15, 2006)

Editor's Note: This is a detailed account of Matt Gabrielson’s experience at the ING New York City Marathon 2006, from the Thursday before until the Monday after. Though it is long, it is amazingly moving, inspiring, and honest. Perhaps the most riveting quality of this entry is the way that Gabrielson draws parallels between the marathon and life. He provides his email address at the end for anybody who would like to send him questions or comments.

Thursday 11/02/06 Minneapolis-St. Paul to New York City via Newark

Awoke early to a very cold, windy, Minnesota morning, but the sun was shining which evened everything out. Warmed-up roughly 2.5 miles to the AV High track for 6x200s with a minute rest and jogged right back home afterwards to get some chai tea latte brewing. Feeling the same as I have since the shut-down began about 9 days ago. I can’t really describe the feeling, but since the shut-down started, running has felt strange - almost like an out of body experience.

Hurried to get to Lehm’s house - I was bumming a ride to the airport and also parking my car there for the next few days. Zac and Lehm, (and Kristen) were stretching after their morning run, and let me just say it was very nice to see their smiling faces. I immediately thought back to our Drake days, and realized we have all come a long way baby. Funny how the two people I began the journey with 10 years ago were right there sending me away on my latest, greatest, yet perhaps most unpredictable adventure – the ING New York City Marathon.

I was picked up by the NYRR and driven to Manhattan in a Mercedes Benz GL 450. If I had 55 grand lying around, I’d pick myself up one of these bad boys. Arrived in the hospitality suite and immediately signed up for the chiropractor to get adjusted which felt great. The feeling that I was to be running my first 26.2 mile race in a few days was beginning to sink in slowly but surely.

Enjoyed a nice meal of salmon penne with pesto and shared glorious company with Katie, Pat, and Corley whom had all arrived the day before for Katie’s press conference. I was able to have a pint with my former Drake teammate Johnny “Wesley” Crimmings after dinner. Johnny’s been out here for a year or so, and it was good to catch up and talk about where our lives have taken us. One important topic of conversation included both of us admitting being recovering letsrun.com junkies. We also both decided that we really, really miss the old tnfmedia.com days even more. Right about then the black and tan was making me sleepy so bedtime seemed to be the perfect thing.

I fell asleep quickly as usual, but 2:30 am rolled around and I woke up to a jackhammer pounding the pavement 6 floors below. That was the most annoying sound in the entire world, even more so than the sound Jim Carey’s character Lloyd made in Dumb and Dumber. It kept me up until at least 4am before I was able to fall asleep again. The only thing I could think about was the last 3 months I had spent getting ready for this thing going down the drain due to losing a good night’s sleep 3 days out. But I guess the thousands of miles will cancel out one bad night’s sleep. Regardless, I am getting earplugs for tonight.

Friday 11/03/06 Two days out…

Ran the standard 47 minutes in Central Park with my roommate Joe Driscoll, and his coach Peter Rea, as well as Brian Rosetti. They are (or were in Brian’s case) apart of ZAP Fitness in NC. I have some crazy stories from this past summer’s Belgium adventure with two other ZAP guys, but this time with ZAP influence around, it’s a bit more subdued. I threw in a surge per Dennis at the end of the run which I guess was probably quicker than marathon pace and ended exactly at the finish line. It was only supposed to be 20 seconds, but I surged for 3 minutes (I never asked Dennis exactly how long it should be until that night after…I apologize - my mistake). I will say it felt entirely different than the other running I have done recently. It really felt like I was just floating along. Also, they say NYC is a BIG place, but Central Park proved to be an ever too small world. I ran past my ex-girlfriend’s ex-boyfriend in Central Park. The thing is that the dude lives in DC. Feeling bemused, I just shouted, “Hey, Farley.” Funny things happen.

Went to hospitality for massage work and also to eat Normally, I will not spend too much time on the table two days out from a race, but this one wasn’t too deep and things felt like they were just getting flushed out. I think I might have walked past a few gold medalists, Olympians, or World Champions, but am not entirely sure. Honestly, I would have been more excited if it were someone like Meat Gilmore or Brian Sell. As I think about it, sitting next to Alan Culpepper at lunch filled my void to see celebrity American marathoners, which by the way is what I aspire to be. Anyway, I can’t even begin to explain how delicious lunch was. Lasagna, salad, bread, olives….mmmmmmmmm. This is very typical NYRR hospitality. These folks never cease to amaze me. Let me just give Jane Monti a shout-out here. Jane, you are simply marvelous and I appreciate how welcome you always make me feel in NYC. Thank you.

I was able to go to dinner with the Barkers, wannabe Barker, and AC. I tried to hold back, but the Heartland Brewery’s black and tan was just too tempting. I was carboloading - what can I say. Good convo and interesting atmosphere all around. Mainly I was really thinking about racing and was happy to be able to strategize with Dennis again for the millionth time. I realized then that it will be really nice to see Dennis, Andrew, et al out on the course when I need to dig down for a little something extra. Retired back to the room very anxious to get a good night’s sleep. Joe and Melissa were watching a pretty good flick - Unleashed. This low key movie watching fun along with the brewery’s finest shall aid in falling asleep quickly and then staying asleep hopefully. T-minus a couple hours until the earplugs are inserted.

Saturday November, 4 2006…Hay is in the barn (Pre)

It was absolutely gorgeous weather in Central Park this morning. I jogged 35 minutes and finished with a 30 second surge which I did the right way this time around. I actually am not as ticked off at the weather we’ve had back home this fall, as it’s made forty degrees and sunny in Manhattan feel like a tropical heat wave. The forecast for the 10:10 am start is 40 degrees with a light and variable wind which in my mind is pretty much ideal. I won’t be able to use the weather as an excuse now.

I fell asleep in the afternoon watching Wisconsin obliterate Penn St. I woke up just in time to take the bottles over to the elite drop off. There are only 4 bottles to a table so they should be easy to grab, but you gotta be prepared for anything. I will be drinking peachy keen Cytomax every 5K for 30K and then at 36K I am throwing down defizzed Mountain Dew. Dennis gave me this idea from his glory days so I tried it during a workout, and it not only sat well, it tasted oh so delicious. I wonder what my body will crave at that point in the marathon. Hopefully, defizzed Mountain Dew.

After taking a headshot for next November’s Olympic Trials being held right here in New York, I headed to the mandatory technical meeting. I must say that I do enjoy listening to David Monti’s very calm, soothing voice and deliberate rate. Nothing too important came out of this meeting except I was injected with a shot of adrenaline. All the athletes were there, and to only mention a few of the accolades of the people in the room would only serve as a huge disservice. Dinner immediately followed, and I tried to load up on carbs (I hate this word) and did a pretty good job eating. It was nice to have that done early. I learned at dinner that apparently they listed Joe and myself with the top Americans on Cold Pizza on ESPN 2. This is the best sports show out there bar none and it was definitely cool to hear that my name was flashed on any ESPN show let alone Cold Pizza.

I called my dad and bro Mike and texted Rachel to calm the nerves a bit before it was time to hit the sack. I’m typing this in bed at 9 pm just waiting to get sleepy enough to call it a night. I want more than anything to get a solid night’s sleep. 5:15am will be here before I know it, and then it’s go time. I wonder what the day has in store for me. Inevitably, I keep thinking of everyone who has been behind me in anything I have ever attempted. The anticipation of running my first marathon definitely has brought out some unique emotions I have not experienced before. That just tells me how special racing this distance is, and I will try my darn hardest not to let anyone down, especially myself. Let’s do this thing.

Sunday November 5, 2006…Race Day

Joe asked for two separate wake-up calls for 5:15 am. He also set the cell phone alarm and the alarm clock for that same time. Basically, it would have been pretty pathetic if we didn’t wake up. I slept soundly compared to the last few nights. I wasn’t sure what the day had in store for me, but I was excited to discover what would happen. I showered without soap, lubed myself up with Body Glide, and packed everything I needed all in one frantic rush.

We headed to the Hilton for breakfast prior to meeting the buses for the 7:15 am departure to the start line at Ft. Wadsworth on Staten Island. I gulped down some oatmeal, half a banana, toast with PB, and tea with sugar in the raw. I tried to note what people like Meb or Tergat or Ritz were eating. Everyone had so many different combos that I just concluded that anything would work. Practically every person in the room had tea in front of them, however.

Fortunately, on the bus ride over I had the privilege to sit by the Australian sensation Andrew Letherby. His calm demeanor about the marathon fueled my confidence and as I revealed my aspirations and first marathon race strategy, he subsequently approved and I was positive today would work out in my favor.

So, as we arrived at Ft. Wadsworth I noticed a shiny black Denali with tinted windows so black that they just had to be bulletproof, parked next to the elite athlete tent. I knew it was Lance, but the funny thing was I didn’t give a rat’s bottom if he was there or not. I was more impressed that I was in the same staging area as Paul Tergat, Culpepper, Ritz, Meb, Deena, Katie McGregor, Meat Gilmore, et al. Immediately upon seeing the white canopy, getting to the tent, sitting down, and taking one long deep breath became my number one priorities.

It was interesting to see how each athlete prepares an hour out from the start of the marathon. Dennis suggested warming up about 10 easy minutes with some stretching and easy strides about 30 minutes before. I did just this, but that didn’t stop me from asking practically everyone how far, fast, and long they go. Pretty much everyone said the same thing.

People say the warm-up before the marathon isn’t really important because you have such a long ways to go it doesn’t take much to get the body ready. I would agree with that from the physical stand-point, but the ten minutes I had to jog in my own world gave me a chance to really grasp the reality of what I was about to go through and I felt like this was a time when I became very focused on that task. My point is that I realized the warm-up for a marathon is indeed important, especially for mental focus.

What sounded like a sonic boom marked the start of the race, as the huge cannons fired two shots. The initial pace felt like a Sunday jog in the park simply because I was running 5:45 pace which was a one mile climb up the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. The second mile is down the other side so a 4:52 evened everything out. I was thankful to have Joe and PG around for so long. When Joe took off at around 10 I should have went, but I avoided the temptation and held back. It does dig at me I didn’t go, but I was scared of the abyss. In reality I should have just raced and let everything else sort itself out. I guess that’s what the marathon does to you. It makes you really question what decisions to make early in order to survive in the end- just like how life works out I guess.

I was able to hit every single water stop and gulp down every single ounce of peachy keen Cytomax every single 5K. The last stop at 35K didn’t work out as well; when I reached for the bottle and had it in my hand, I dropped the bottle and it fell to the ground. There were some oohs and aaahs from the people around, but I didn’t sweat it because I had taken each of the others nearly perfectly. The worst part was this particular bottle was filled with de-fizzed Mountain Dew and I was really looking forward to savoring all 7 ounces of it.

Two interesting things happened to me in the park. One, I passed Meb. I was worried about him when I figured out he was the one who was slowly bringing it in. I was hoping he would be the winner. It taught me a lesson about this dang marathon – sometimes it even swallows up the best no matter if it’s from hitting the wall or food poisoning. Second, I ran into Letherby who helped me get to the finish line under 2:20. I am grateful for his aide. You should have seen us the last 200 meters battling to the finish like a couple of boys out in the schoolyard - quite the sight.

I made it to the line barely under 2:20 which I am not too pleased with, but this was the absolute last of my goals so I’ll take it. I realize now that it takes a few times to understand what this race is entirely about. Even then, it probably still will throw you a few curveballs. Initially in the tent I was disappointed because I was thinking that the level of runner I am is way better than 2:19. I also was beaten by Joe whom I respect very much, but simply did not want to get beaten by. But then I realized some of the positives…an A Trials qualifier, top 20 which meant Tiffany’s and Co. crystal, fourth place American money when I thought before hand that I would be battling for fifth place money, I was not injured the whole training segment or during the race, and I have all that training behind me to help conquer the track this spring.

I know that in the future will be a 2:12 marathoner. I felt that in my gut after the race. When this will happen I do not know. I do know that I want to run another marathon because I feel like there is so much more there. I also wonder how many New York first-timers say that. I mean, that course was a beast. The first half not too bad, but the Queensboro Bridge, First Ave, and definitely Fifth Ave make it very difficult towards the end. It’s a man’s course that made me a little more boyish.

That night, I was able to chat it up at the dinner with all the athletes. I was also able to drink down a couple of black and tan pints with my two college teammates who were in town. Thanks to Borton and Johnny for hanging out. It was rough limping back to the hotel, but I was ready for a hard-earned night of sleep.

Monday November 6, 2006…Most good things come to an end

I would do this thing all over again if I could. It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Perhaps one of the most special things that came out of the last 14 weeks of training and throughout the race was the deeper relationship that Dennis and I developed. He taught be a lot about believing in my abilities; in fact, I pretty much felt like I could have run through a brick wall thanks to the constant attention, positive feedback, and communication that I received from Dennis. I would like to publicly thank him and let him know that there isn’t another coach out there I would rather be associated with. I feel even more confident about something really special happening up here in Minnesota.

Additionally, the NYRR and their volunteers are simply the most professional organization in the entire world. They made me feel like I belonged just as much as the #1 seed. Thanks to them for being such gracious hosts and for making the entire weekend easy.

Switching gears, on Monday morning, while still in NYC, I received a phone call from my mother informing me that my Uncle Tom had passed away from a heart attack at age 55. This news led to a rollercoaster of emotions -the ups from the marathon, the downs resulting from the death of my uncle. I also learned Monday that my house finally sold after months of showings. This brought me up for awhile, but I went back to thinking about my uncle and the rollercoaster hit a steep downhill. These situations really made me realize that I absolutely love the way my life has unfolded and I want to be doing what I am doing as long as is humanly possible. I absolutely want to continue giving my best shot at trying to become one of the country’s best distance runners.

Finally, I sincerely hope that everyone who has ever accomplished or failed to accomplish their goals, at one time or another, can find something they are passionate about and pursue it to the best of their abilities. I really think that one of the most unique things a person can do is throw all caution to the wind and chase a dream no matter the opinion of anyone else. Even if that dream eludes you at least you can look back on the hunt and know you gave something you care about very much a fair shot. I definitely owe this to myself and so do you. I truly believe that.

Please feel free to contact me at matt_gabrielson@yahoo.com with any questions, comments, or concerns. Thank you for reading my ramblings. Go Team USA MN.

August 22, 2006 (Posted August 28, 2006)

Welcome back! After a very, very disappointing spring racing season, I have regrouped and recharged and decided to take the plunge into the world of marathoning. More than likely, I will be on the starting line of the ING NYC Marathon on November 5.

The plan calls for 14 weeks (of which 10 remain) to get the big dogs ready to roll. “This is insane.” I just said – out loud in the library – to myself as I’m typing, “What am I doing this for?” It really is crazy – running as fast as you can without dying for 26.2 miles (Nate Wall would say 24). I guess I am just up for the challenge and whatever happens on that day is how it will happen. I know I’ll do everything in my power to get everything out of myself during this thing and throughout the 14 weeks, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a crazy thing to do. Whatever.

I was all over the place in July…racing in Belgium, watching the last stage of the Tour in Paris, golfing and gambling (came out ahead for once in my natural born life) in Vegas, bass fishing near Brainerd. I was able to enjoy myself for a bit to take my mind off the disappointment of not meeting any goals on the track. It was tough being so ready to run fast mentally, and having to deal with my body not cooperating at all. At least I was consistently running 13:50, even though in my book it was consistently disappointing. Honestly, I know I can run 13:20 and I will next year.

So, the lesson learned from all this is that the sun will more than likely come up the next day and the only thing you can do is keep plugging (and take iron, vitamin C, and B12 all at once). I love the sport too much and have too many people in my corner not to see if I can be the guy who is competing in Beijing who isn’t supposed to be there. Here’s a look at my third week of 14:

Sunday, Aug. 13 – The Lebanon Hills mountain biking trails are the best place to run in the entire world…12 miles easy with strides and drills.

Monday AM – long threshold reps in “the park.” I love “the park.” Running in “the park” puts hair on you where you don’t need it.
PM – 8 miles I think. I can’t remember.

Tuesday AM – 30 easy minutes on the zoo loop wondering what would happen to me if all hell broke loose in the African safari exhibit inside the zoo.
PM – 12 miles very hard run out on the Luce $#u*. I felt the best I have in a couple of years today.

Wednesday AM – Lehm came down to run 12 in Lebanon…we skipped IHOP for obvious reasons.
PM – 6 miles after practice (I coach at Edina HS now – go Hornets) with Lehm and my new boss Jamie Kirkpatrick. He does a phenomenal job with the kids by the way. I will lay off any predictions for the season because I don’t want to get in trouble.

Thursday AM – hanging on for dear life up some short hills with Klei. 3 wu and 30 min cd
PM – 8 miles with TC Lumbar and Tom Burke, two of Minnesota’s finest. These two run hard.

Friday AM – Easy 10
PM – 5 miles of pure joy on the Minnesota River Trail. The bugs are returning slowly but surely.

Saturday – 18 fast miles in 1:49. I don’t know what to say here.

108ish miles on the week. Next up 120. Thanks for stopping by.

Introductory Entry - May 27, 2006

So I guess I'm officially a blogger. I'm not following a particular format, just letting things happen. Hopefully over time, people will understand a little bit about how I got to be where I am. I think the NYRR idea of blogs is a cool way to give people a better understanding about what we are doing up here in Minnesota.

Normally, I am not a pessimist or an optimist, but a realist. I just take things for what they are worth. With that, last week was one of my worst weeks in recent memory. However, I've put things in perspective and realize it could be a lot worse.

Anyway, I spent the weekend of May 19-21 in NYC at the Healthy Kidney 10k. I love the city, the energy, the whole atmosphere. On race day, I thought I was ready to roll it out, but I struggled through the race. On top of the difficult race, my girlfriend and I decided to end our three year relationship a few days before this. Lots of emotional energy lost to that this week. No excuses though. Time to refocus, drink iron, and get ready for the Reebok Grand Prix 5000 on June 3. Back to NYC.

I've been reflecting on the positives from last weekend that make me love this sport...I got to hang out with Hartmann and BL. Also, I met a lot of cool people - Keith Kelly, Mottram, Mo, Andrew Letherby, among others. Went out Saturday night with Fam, Sam, and the ladies. Talked to Downin. Had great hospitality and meals provided by David, Mary, Sam, Jane, and Crew. Overall, a great weekend.

Training for the week of May 22:
Monday 12 miles solo from the Highland Lifetime Fitness around Pike Island. Quicker towards the end. Finally shirtless in the Great North. Dang, I'm white.

Tuesday AM ran from Augsburg to the University of St. Thomas for a track workout. Faster stuff seems simple, but anything 800 on up is a huge chore.

PM 47 min very easy from Jason Lehmkuhle's house along the Mississippi River Roads. We had Kristen Nicolini's lasagna afterwards. Another beauty out there. Last week a biker tried to knock our blocks off because we were an inch too far into the bike lane. We were on the lookout for this fool, but no dice.

Wednesday AM 10 miles solo around the Minneapolis Lakes followed by drills. Got rolling and am starting to feel a little better after beginning to take iron a few days back. The iron could be a mental thing for longer workouts and races. Weird how I PRd in the mile at the Jesse Owens meet though on May 6.

PM Ran 30 min from Runner's Edge around the State Capitol in St. Paul after locking up the store. Feeling good, but keeping it easy. Lots of stuff on my mind tonight, wanting to just hammer but stayed calm for tomorrow. Wondering how the AM session tomorrow will turn out.

Thursday AM ran from Augsburg to the University of Minnesota track. Not sure how this session would go considering my poor performance last weekend through Central Park in New York. Today I officially declared Annie Bersagel Day. Fox Sports Net was following her to the track and filming her doing strides. Being the glory hound that I am, I tried to sneak into as much coverage as possible. The cameraman was crazy running all over the place. Guaranteed he's sore tomorrow. Bersagel won some post-collegiate scholarship from the NCAA. I think that might be like 11 scholarships she's won since she got here a few months back. Good crew at least on the warm-up with McGregor, Carrie, Luke, Lundo and Annie. Carrie ALWAYS leads warm-ups like it's a pissing match. No slacking. Hit Ks in 2:41-2:44 so right in the middle. I am staying on the iron plan.

Friday AM 8 miles hot and humid. Didn't feel so well to start but good at end.

PM Drenched in sweat after 40 minutes at a decent clip from home through the Lebanon Hills Park. I was reminded that the unofficial Minnesota bug season is closing in.

Don't believe everything you think.