Peter's Team Diabetes Triathlon (and formerly Marathon) Blog

Gorgeous day but terrible run. Got about halfway on my 5k route and realized that I was lacking energy, desire or both, Return trip was a combination of walking and running. Oh well, one bad run is not the end of the world. Off to Ottawa today for meetings of the Canadian Diabetes Association plus a couple of extra days for family visits.

Ever have one of those days when you were feeling like you just didn't measure up? Last week I arrived home and in the mail was a flyer from the Royal Canadian Mint advertising, amongst other things, the issue of a special coin celebrating the accomplishments of Canadian astronaut Colonel Chris Hadfield. As wonderful (and well deserved) as this is, it made me feel somewhat inadequate. You see, Chris was a college classmate of mine. A super guy but how can we mere mortals ever compare? I mean, the guy's been on the space shuttle twice !!!!

To cheer me up, my colleague Niki presented me with a coin of my own. How cool was that?! I am going to carry it with me (along with a Terry Fox loonie, a Pink Ribbon quarter and a Poppy quarter) as inspiration during the NYC marathon.

Today I had a most pleasant lunch meeting with a friend, Terry F., who I have gotten to know over the past few years through a mutual interest in professional development, goal setting/achievement and numerous other topics - including music. As we arrived back on campus, Terry made a very generous donation in support of my fundraising for Team Diabetes. He also supported me when I did the Dublin in 2002. Thank you very much Terry!

Also today, I received notice of an on-line donation from one of my dearest friends, Dave P., in Toronto. Dave was in fact the first person to whom I confided my hairbrained idea of running a marathon back in 2001/2002. He offered me the single largest donation towards my Dublin campaign on the condition that I went for a run with him (he is an ex pro football player, university track & field competitor and all-round super jock). I lived up to my part of the bargain and he lived up to his side. Now, four years later he has stepped up again with another amazing contribution. Thanks buddy, I truly appreciate it and the Canadian Diabetes Association does also.

So, there you have it, my Magical Monday.

Just realized that I forgot to post about my Sunday LSD. I planned to do an 8-9k route by doing a loop around the bridges meaning that I would pass through downtown Fredericton. As I came by the Beaverbrook Art Gallery I could hear the "skirl of the pipes" and, like a moth to a flame, was drawn to where the Society of St Andrews junior pipe band was putting on a concert. After listening for a while I continued on, only to meet up with fellow Team D-er Lloyd Chambers as he was helping to set up for the JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes. I felt bad that we had forgotten it was on - this is the first year sinve they've been held in Fredericton that we hadn't helped out and/or participated. At any rate, after a few minutes of chatting I set off to finish my run. Turned out not to be the most productive training run but it was certainly enjoyable!!

Chris and I were fortunate to be given a pair of tickets for the semi-final of the Memorial Cup. The Moncton Wildcats played the Vancouver Giants. I have never been at a game where the crowd was as LOUD as at this one. Happily, the Wildcats won 3-1 but sadly they lost the final to the Quebec Remparts. Here are are a couple of pics. The first is outside the rink, the second is Chris with the actual Memorial Cup trophy and the third is taken at the start of the game as teh Cats made their entrance. Thanks to my buddy "Peter Mac" who scored the stubs for us.

This weekend is the National Capital Race Weekend in Ottawa. My brothers Bill and Steve and my sisters-in-law, Kristy and Tara, all completed the 5K event. Even baby Gavin took part in his high-performance stroller. Here's their official results:

TARA MCDOUGALL # 21118 28:21
KRISTY MCDOUGALL # 16181 30:20
BILL MCDOUGALL # 19107 37:01
STEPHEN MCDOUGALL #21119 37:00

Way to go everyone!!

Also, congrats to Mike the Tyke for completing the ING National Capital Half Marathon in 2:24. Great performance!

It's been a while since I was able to post an update about donations received. I would like to thank Mary and Alan for a donation made in memory of my recently deceased Aunt Sylvia. I have also received generous donations from Shawn G. and Richard S. Thank you gentlemen.

For any reader interested in supporting me by making a donation directly online, it can be done through the Canadian Diabetes Association's secure portal. Follow these instructions:

1. Copy this link and paste it into your browser:
http://www.diabetes.ca/section_donations/TeamDiabetesIndex.asp

2. Clink on Pledge a Participant

3. Fill in your contact information so that the CDA can send you a tax receipt for the donation.

4. Choose the "New York City Marathon" event from the list.

5. Enter my first name - Peter - and my last name - McDougall - where indicated. Spelling matters!!! My city of residence is Fredericton.

6. On the next screen enter your donation amount, credit card details and click on Submit.

Follow the instructions to immediately print your tax receipt or it can be sent to you by mail.

This is, as far as I know, the last post in my series introducing my Team Diabetes Canada New York City marathon 2006 mates.

24. Arlene and Mark S – Red Deer Alberta – mother and son are running the New York Marathon together as part of Team Diabetes Canada. Mark has lived with Type 1 Diabetes since age 17. He is now 22 and has recently completed his degree in Mechanical Engineering at U of A. They completed the Rome Marathon (even crossed the finish line hand in hand!) on March 26. Rome was the 12th marathon for Arlene and first for Mark. Arlene has been running for over 20 years and was to do the Red Deer Marathon on May 21st.

25. Alex N. - a fit 71yr.old Can/Swede living in Creston, BC. This will be his 13th or 14th marathon (having done 6 already but with plans to run one a month between now and November!!). Guess he needed to relax after last year when he Rollerskied Across Canada. Started in Victoria BC on June 24/05 and finished October 4/05 in St. Johns NL, all in support of diabetes. His wife Nicole was support team / manager / chief cook / RV driver. Son Nick maintained the website from Chicago. It is still up if you want to find out a bit more about this super senior: www.skiacrosscanada.com. Alex is a retired Environmental Health Officer and Nicole is a semi-retired RN, Diabetes Nurse Educator.

Just returned from several days in Ottawa and had a chance to do a couple of lovely runs along the Rideau Canal.

Unfortunately, the reason for the trip was a sad one - the death of my very special aunt, Sylvia Bredeson. "Auntie", as she was known to almost everyone, was an amazing lady and will be missed greatly. The last time I visited with her (in March) we spent a lot of time talking about my involvement with the Canadian Diabetes Association, my running adventures with Team Diabetes Canada and, in particular, about my upcoming NYC marathon. She will be in my heart always but particularly when the going gets tough in New York. In the picture above, Sylvia is on the right and my mother is the great looking lady on the left.

Earlier today my wife Jill and I drove to Grand Bay-Westfield, near Saint John NB, so that she could partcipate in her first 5k race, the River Valley Rave Run. She has just finished her Running Room "For Women Only" learn to run program so this was like her graduation exercise. She did awesome - finished in just over 33 minutes. Way to go Jilly!!

22. Jodi M. - Edmonton, AB. 23 yrs old. Works as a bartender/cocktail waitress at the Baccarat Casino. In December of 2005 completed the Honolulu Marathon with Team Diabetes and had a finishing time of 4:53:26. Was not a runner at all until she decided to run the marathon. Inspiration for running with Team Diabetes was her grandmother who lived with Type 1 diabetes for over 45years. She was able to see Jodi complete her fundraising and finish the run before she passed away in February of this year. Doing this marathon in memory of her grandmother.

23. Sue B – Halifax NS. Works at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) as an Instructional Designer. Was diagnosed with Type I diabetes when she was seven years old. Turns 36 this year which means she’s been living with the disease almost 30 years Loves to run, so TEAM Diabetes is something that means a lot. Through TEAM Diabetes I get to raise funds for a cause that is very close to heart, plus train to run marathons which she loves. Trained for and completed the TEAM Diabetes Dublin 2002 Marathon. Since then she and husband Mike have welcomed a daughter Anastasia. Anastasia is now two and is along for the ride in a jogging stroller when Sue runs. Ana and Mike will be accompanying to NYC to help cheer me on. Had been training for the Rome 2006 marathon when she ran into complications with diabetes and ended up needing a series of 13 laser surgeries due to diabetic retinopathy. Disappointed to have to change marathon plans but realized that the NYC marathon date would be a viable option. At the time I ran the Dublin Marathon was on four injections of insulin per day. Since that time, has started on the insulin pump and really enjoys the tighter level of control the pump affords.

19. Jenny - 28 years old from St. John's, Newfoundland but living on the west coast of the province for a few months. Working towards a Dietetics degree (my 3rd degree) and so currently working in Nutrition Services at the hospital in Corner Brook for the summer. In her “previous life” worked as an event manager in Ireland. First heard about Team D from a friend 5 years ago, when she was 100 pounds overweight and in no shape to run a marathon. Got interested in health, fitness and running over the past few years, dropped 80 pounds, completed a few 5Ks and 8Ks, the Bluenose Half Marathon and the Tely 10 in St. John's last summer and then Team D popped into her head again. Originally signed up for Reykjavik, but when New York was added, switched over immediately.

20. Karen and Will B (both 43 years old). Live in Oakville, ON and have 2 children, Victoria (12 years) and Conor (10 years). Conor was diagnosed with Type 1 two years ago. Joined Team D in Jan 2005 and ran the Honolulu Marathon in Dec 2005. It was a first marathon after completing 2 half marathons (in 2003 & 2004). This year, Will & Karen decided to do the NY marathon together but Karen has developed a severe case of plantar fasciitis and has not been able to run or walk long distances for over 4 months. Rollerblading hoping to maintain a level of fitness just in case... If she can’t run the marathon she’ll be on the sidelines with her kids cheering everyone on!

21. Robert L - also in the 40's group (46). This will be 2nd run with Team D, was at Honolulu in Dec 2005. Enjoyed meeting all 250+ members that went to that fun-run-in- the-sun. Wasn't planning to do a fundraising race so quickly after Hawaii, however, when New York was available, jumped at the chance. Works at AIM Trimark Investments in Toronto, in the backoffice Accounting area. Been running since 1986.

16. Lindsay - 23 years old. A Chemical Engineering student at the University of Saskatchewan currently on an internship in Edmonton. Never run a marathon before, but been a sports nut all her life. Enjoying the physical aspect of training. Also, great to have something to work hard towards besides final exams especially for a cause as significant as this. Aunt (see Dolly’s write up) ran in Iceland last year. She's been a huge inspiration will be with her for support.

17. Deb G – a 43 year old wife and mom of two teenage kids. Started running about three years ago and has really enjoyed it. Ran the Rome 2005 Marathon with CDA and found it to be a wonderful experience. Connection to diabetes through an Uncle who died of the complications that it causes. Wanted to do something positive with her running and this was the inspiration.

18. Dolly H - a 44 year old Hair Stylist from Battleford, Sask. This will be her 2nd Team Diabetes run. First was Iceland in 2004 and it was a wonderful experience. Lots of fun and a great and friendly country. Did the Half because of a nagging knee injury. Training partners are two miniature Schnauzers, Smokey and Bandit. Reason for choosing Team Diabetes , is because her father has type 2 and one of her very good friends has type1. Has seen them battle controlling the disease, and decided she would try to help in her own way. Husband Tom has been a great supporter. He is a mountain bike competitor. Will be attending NYC with niece Lindsay.

13. Paul R. – London ON. (home of Sir Frederick Banting!) - daughter developed type 1 diabetes when she was eight, she is now sixteen. 45 years old, disliked running but found himself in a Running Room 10k clinic about two years ago. After some prodding from other clinic members who had progressed to marathons, decided to try one, even though he didn’t like running. Set his goal to complete first marathon with Team D in Honolulu with daughter along as a spectator. Set his next goal to do NYC. To break up the running thing convinced some of my running friends to try triathlons. Completed three last year and is training to complete a 1/2 Ironman this year.

14. Corrine Cash - 33 yrs old - resides in Fredericton NB – originally from Cape Breton. Ran with the very first Team D. Honolulu Team. Works in Medical Sales (a device primarily surgeons use). Loves all sports. Not sure how she got into this: saw a poster and have seen the negative impacts of diabetes through professional experience. Also wanted a challenge I suppose-and like doing "do-good-er" stuff to feel a sense of purpose perhaps to life. Ran one half marathon and is running the Bluenose Half in Halifax. Also runs the Cabot Trail relay ever year (which is a hoot) www.cabottrailrelay.com Loves all outdoor sports from skiing to surfing and loves to travel.

15. George – Thunder Bay ON. Chev Caddy dealer. Got the idea for this a couple of years ago while reading a magazine on a flight. Wanted to go to Iceland had missed the deadline-next one was Dublin so signed up and ran it in 04. He and daughter have both survived cancer. Turning 49 soon, 2 kids (boy 13 and girl 7), and of course a understanding wife who may even come and watch.

This is a story provided by one of the team members. I am reproducing it in its entirety:


12. Sheila M - White City, SK

NOT IN MY WILDEST DREAMS
AN INSPIRATIONAL STORY

It was 9 months ago, I found myself very down and unhappy with what I had let myself become. I did what I had to do to keep my family happy and healthy, but for me, I spent my free time on the couch in front of the TV watching the talk shows and eating pretty much non stop. Then one morning in May 2004 I got out of bed feeling different that day. It was about 7:30AM and as I sat sipping my coffee and listening to the radio as I do every morning, I heard CC, Marilyn & Buzz on Z99 mention something about a walking marathon. I thought to myself, I love to walk. I wondered at this time what this was all about. I immediately thought what a great way to get into shape and meet people. As I continued to listen, CC mentioned that there would be an information night that evening. The little bit I knew at that point, was enough to get me off my duff that evening and head to the meeting. Well, not only did I learn that this walkathon was a great way to give a little of myself by raising money for a cause very near and dear to my heart “The Canadian Diabetes Assoc” but it was called “The Great Bermuda Walking Marathon” which meant of course that this marathon was in Bermuda. I was hooked from that point on. The rest of the story goes like this:

I made a commitment not only to myself to be the best that I could be while I trained to prepare for this big event but also to the Canadian Diabetes Assoc. to raise a minimum of $5500.00 by October 1st. While both of these endeavors were a great deal of hard work, they were also fun and rewarding at the same time. My training was successful due to a rigorous schedule that was followed to a “T” given to us on info night. The fund raising began shortly after I got into the training program. I raised funds by sending out 150 letters to family and friends requesting their help to find a cure for diabetes. This fund raiser was important to me because my step daughter, my father, my brother, my sister-in-law, my brother-in-law, my uncle and a very dear friend of mine were all insulin dependant. There was also a garage sale, the sale of some of my antique treasures and a great Pasta Night with silent auction and door prizes. I successfully completed my fund raising three weeks ahead of schedule, which meant more time to go hard with the training, and go hard I did.

Finally Remembrance Day 2004 had arrived and it was time to board the plane to start the trip of a lifetime for me. The 15 Regina team members and 4 Saskatoon team members (one of which was my sister Terri) made up “Team Saskatchewan”. We all arrived in Toronto late afternoon where we were on our own for dinner and sightseeing. The next morning at 5 AM, 79 members from all over Canada flew into Bermuda early afternoon. After a few hrs of mingling and socializing with Team Canada teammates, we were off to a welcome reception at our beautiful "Pink Hotel” called the Fairmont. This was no ordinary hotel but a 4 ½ * hotel that was fabulous and we were continually treated like royalty. After having to be up at 3:15AM Toronto time we headed to our rooms for a good night sleep. We were only in Bermuda for a few short days so it was up early Saturday morning and off to do some sightseeing and shopping. We were having such a great time in this beautiful little city which is only 21 sq miles. That afternoon, a glorious sun filled afternoon was spent sitting poolside enjoying a fabulous lunch and sipping margaritas. It was nearing 4 PM and it was to check in with our sponsors and pick up our race #’s and T-shirts. I was very proud to wear #20, which I was assigned. It was shortly after that we were already meeting up with our new found friends from other parts of Canada to make arrangements to meet for our pre race Pasta Dinner night. No liquid refreshments allowed that evening for us athletes. Just lots of pasta, protein and water to prepare for the big day which started at 4:15 AM Sunday November 14/04 (that is 2:15 AM Regina time). Breakfast, which consisted of lots of carbs, lots of fruit and of course protein, was served at 5:45 AM. After a quick breakfast the 79 team members met in the hotel lobby for Team pictures. Then it was a jaunt out the front doors of the hotel straight done Front St in Bermuda where we met up with all other participants from other countries (150 athletes) in all to prepare for the big race. Reality had just set in at this point and I realized the day I had been looking so forward to for the past 5 months was finally here. It was about 6:55AM and I took a few deep breaths, did a few stretches to prepare for the event and said a little prayer to just finish the race healthy and with a smile. That was my only goal at this time as I had already accomplished so many personal targets along this journey.

It was now 7AM and the starting gun has just gone off. My partner whom I had trained with for the past few months were quick to get out of the starting gate. The day was sunny and the temp was about 69 degrees F. How perfect we thought!! We were certainly enjoying the beautiful Bermuda scenery at a fairly brisk power walk when at about mile 10, nearing the end of the North Shore, the wind got so brisk I had to put a mask over my face as breathing was getting very difficult. I refused to give up; I could see the end of the shore, which meant I was heading back into the city of Bermuda. Straight ahead was the ½ marathon mark, which I crossed at 3 hrs 11 min. I was looking good again and feeling better now that I was out of the wind but now the sky had turned very dark and the rain drops were getting bigger and bigger. By mile 16, the rain was so hard, I was getting wet and very cold and my shoes were full of water. By this time, I had pulled out ahead of my partner and had lost sight of her when looking back. There was no one I could see at that time. About mile 22 the rain continued in sheets and nearing the end of the North Shore for the second time round I thought I can’t do this anymore but no one came to check on me. At mile 23, I was so cold, so wet and I was having a mental break down, the crocodile tears started to flow. It was about then that I lost my momentum for about 30 seconds and that was when I slid on a stone and went over on my ankle and foot. I guess that was meant to be because then I had to talk myself into continuing on a very painful foot but at least it took my mind off how cold and wet I was. I just kept telling myself for the last 3.2 miles that my vision and my dreams were to finish this marathon healthy with a smile. It was now 12:45 PM and I could see our pink palace, which meant I was nearing the finish line. I really was going to do this. Again the tears came but they were tears of joy and happiness not pain and cold and wet. Amazing, how when I saw the hotel the pain was totally gone and I poured on the speed like the shetlon pony heading for the barn. Now my only vision was the finish line with so many people and well wishers congratulating me as I crossed the finish line in 5 hrs 55 minutes and 11 seconds. It wasn’t until a few seconds later everyone was yelling your 1st!!! You’re 1st and have broken a record. From that moment on, the celebration just went on and on. However, the pain did return about 4AM the next morning but hey whose complaining after a personal challenge not only completed but completed as an International Marathon Winner. This amazing experience has given me the encouragement to continue in life with an only positive attitude in anything I choose to do because never in my wildest dreams did I even think at 51 years old I would be the athlete and person I have become.

My motto for life “Follow My Dreams, Wild or Not” Follow My Heart”

10. Bill G. - 44 year old pharmaceutical rep from Saskatoon, SK. NYC will be 4th marathon with Team D (Dublin-Oct/04; Rome Mar/05; and Amsterdam Oct/05). Has dine a few other (non-fundraising) marathons as well (Saskatoon-May/05; and Phoenix-Jan/06) . The Team Diabetes marathons were awesome experiences and obviously addicting. He has been blown away by the quality of individuals met through TeamD travels-some very inspiring people and their stories. A few other links to Team D: his company, Sanofi-Aventis, is one of the national sponsors of Team Diabetes Canada. Regularly talks with healthcare professionals about treating and preventing diabetes and its complications. The 9-year-old son of a co-worker has type 1 diabetes, since birth and is undergoing heart surgery in Edmonton to help correct some complications that were brought about by his diabetes. He has been the 'poster boy' and source of inspiration for fundraising and training efforts.

11. Lesley P. – Collingwoood ON. First marathon ever and has team member David F. to thank for bringing on board. For the last year David has been bugging her to run a Team D marathon, since her group of running mommies helped him train for Iceland! Has run 2 half marathons, and doing a third in Ottawa at the end of May. She is a pharmacist and runs an independent pharmacy in Collingwood, Ontario (just past the longest fresh water beach, Wasaga Beach!). Pharmacy has a large diabetes population and has a full time nurse on staff who works with many of these patients. Husband and two sons (10 & 7) will be joining her in New York as a great cheering section! Running with her will be her host father from a one year long Rotary exchange to Sweden nearly 20 years ago.

7. Patty W-B - Payroll Administrator at PCS Potash in Rocanville, Saskatchewan. 2nd marathon with the CDA. Did Amsterdam Oct. 05 and had a blast. Originally signed up for the full but injuries and flu required a change to the Half. Wasn't a runner until 1 ½ years ago but was a cyclist. Has done the RONA MS Bike Tour @ Riding Mountain National Park (170 kms in 2 days). Someone at work dropped off the CDA flyer for the marathon. Thought nothing tried nothing gained. Plus, a great way to stay motivated, a challenge and raise money for a very important disease that looms around in hundreds of households in Canada. Goal is to surpass the fund raising target and complete the full marathon.

8. Tas M - Compliance Specialist, Aecon Group (Toronto area?). Came to Canada 6 years ago from South Africa with family (husband & kids). Never enjoyed running and always belonged to a gym. Wanted to continue with fitness regime, but didn’t want to incur any additional expenses. The first time running barely made it to the end of the block, but through persistence, eventually managed first 5km. Has run 10km races, half marathons and three marathons since then. Decided that each year, would do one new marathon, preferably in a different city, that way we get to see many different places too. Joined Team Diabetes because running a marathon with a specific cause, will make it much more special, and doing this in New York.... well that's a double bonus!

9. Denis M – Halifax NS - son was diagnosed with type 1diabetes almost 7 years ago. The CDA was there to help educate, organize a camp for kids with diabetes and provide needed supplies. In 2003 heard about Team Diabetes – the chance to raise money, get in shape and travel - and signed up for their inaugural Reykjavik marathon. Brought the entire family along for the experience - 6 degrees, rainy, and blowing a gale – but still a great experience and raised a lot of money for the CDA. Looking forward to getting back in shape, doing some good, and running with a lot more people. Iceland had 500 runners…I think NYC will have a few more…maybe it will even be warmer.

4. David F - Wasaga Beach, ON (The worlds longest fresh water beach!). Had a friend run for Team Diabetes (Rome 2001). Thought he would like to do it some day. Saw an ad for Team D Iceland in Sept 04, started running that day and ran it in Aug 05. Needed a good public goal for another marathon and NYC seemed like a good idea! Wife and daughters will also be there to watch the race (and shop!). A banker most of the time, a municipal politician part of the time, and a regional delegate of the CDA in his spare (??) time. Will be 47 at the time of the race. One of his fellow Rotarians, Lesley P will also be joining the group for this run.

5. Tania T - Thunder Bay ON. January 2005 was trying to think of something spectacular to do for 30th birthday that year. A co-worker was talking about running a marathon in Hawaii for Team Diabetes and I thought that was a fantastic idea. Not only was the marathon 1 week after her 30th birthday (perfect timing) but would also raise money for a great cause. Hated running but decided to jump in and suck it up. Had FUN doing the fundraising with help from a friend who had moved back to Thunder Bay and who has diabetes. Off to Honolulu Hawaii where she had the best experience of her life - met great people and ran the most difficult challenge she had ever faced. When NYC came up she jumped at the chance to start the whole process all over again. She’s “… 30, single and loving life”.

6. Barry D - Burlington, ON. For his 40th birthday climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. Now looking at the NYC marathon as a bigger mountain. Always liked a challenge and raising money for CDA and running a marathon seem like a great one. This will be his first marathon. Goal is to run it under 4 hrs

Last week I initiated an email to other members of the Team Diabetes New York City Marathon contingent. I told them a little bit about me and invited them to likewise “introduce” themselves. I’ve now heard back from most, if not all of them and thought that readers of my blog might be interested to know a little bit about my team mates. Since this is likely to be a long post I’m going to break it up into several separate entries.

1. Lisa C - 27 years old from Thunder Bay, ON. An insurance broker. Originally from Newfoundland. Got involved with Team Diabetes because a client did Rome 2005 and sounded like an amazing experience. Was not a runner but signed up for Team Diabetes in Jan. 2005 and completed the Honolulu marathon in Dec 2005.

2. Will & Karen B- lives in Oakville, ON with 2 children Conor (10) & Victoria. Conor was diagnosed with Type 1 at age 8. Became involved with Team Diabetes last spring. Both are registered for NY but Karen not sure if she can do it after a torn tendon in her foot at the Honolulu Marathon (her first marathon and first with Team D). Will is still planning on doing NYC.

3. Louise G - Timmins, ON. 47 years old (and proud of it), two children 24 and 20. A business owner, college professor (for both the English and French community colleges), a certified Life Skills Coach, and a contractor to local businesses and govts providing individual and group training. Spring 2003, participated in a learn-to-run program and ran first race (5k) in Oct that year. In January 2004, ran the Half in Las Vegas and in Oct 2004 was part of Team Diabetes in Dublin. Ultimate running goal is to qualify for the Boston Marathon by age 50. In the meantime, will continue outdoor expeditions with Wild Women Expeditions. Planning to kayak and hike the Pacific Rim next year and has registered for the Northern Manitoba Dog Sledding expedition in the winter of 2007. Another group that she’s associated with - Alala Women's Adventure - is planning a mountaineering adventure in New Zealand some time next year.

As promised, here are a couple of picture from the "Freddy Beach Half". First is at the start line just before we lined up. Second picture was taken just after the 5k point in Marysville. Third pic is at the finish line (Note: the time showing is for the full marathoners!!). Last is the cool medal that you receive as you finish.

On several of the web discussion boards that I follow and on some other runners' blogs it is common to post a Race Report so thought I would add one here.

This is the second time that I have participated in the Fredericton Half Marathon. First time was in May 2004 when I finished in roughly 2:20. This time I had hoped to beat that time.

The race is relatively small with about 600 total particpants in one of the three distances - full marathon (42.2k), half marathon (21.1k) or 10k.

Saturday evening I attended the pre-race pasta "carbo loading" dinner that was held at a local restaurant. The price of the meal is included in the registration fee so even though it wasn't the greatest, no complaints. I met some out of towners at the dinner, including a brother/sister from New Jersey (they work in New York City) who were really nice.

Race day was beautiful and sunny. Start/finish was at Queen's Square Park in downtown Fredericton. From there we ran along the trail system to a turnaround point near the Penniac bridge and back. The course was well signed and there were lots of people helping at water stations and doing traffic control at the dozen or so road crossings.

Just before the start I was chatting with Lloyd, a chap I know through Team Diabetes who is running the Dublin marathon in October 2006. His son Cody is a Type 1 diabetic. Also met fellow "bloggers" Christine and Danielle (Team D Honolulu 2006) who came to Fredericton to run the Half/10k respectively.

To keep me on track for a good finish time I was wearing a pace band that showed split times for each kilometer. I tried to keep my pace slow at the start but within a couple of kms I was about 1 minute ahead of pace time. The first 10 km went by very easily. I got to the halfway turnaround point and decided that I should test my blood sugars. I was a little low (4.6 mmol) so I ate one of the gel packs I was carrying and drank some extra gatorade hoping that this would be enough to sustain me as I started for home and as the temperatures started to rise. It was just before noon and the temps were forecast to get to 22c.

Chatted with some great folks along the route. One was a guy wearing a Dublin marathon hat. I mentioned that I had done Dublin a couple of years ago and we agreed that the Guinness tastes pretty good after that race! Ran for a bit with a Frederictonian now living in Toronto. He was doing the Half as part of a "home-and-home". His friend had come to T.O. to run a marathon last fall and this was the return visit. I saw a woman wearing a Team Diabetes jersey who was smokin' fast, running the Full marathon event. Saw her at the finish and found out she is from Perth-Andover NB and had run the Honolulu marathon in December 2005 as a part of Team D.

The second half of the run was a little tougher. I hit a bad patch somewhere around the 15k mark and had to really push myself psychologically to keep going at a reasonable pace. To that point I was still a minute ahead of schedule but after a couple of tough kilometers I had fallen a minute behind pace. Experienced runners say that in every race you always hit some tough sections and that you need to fight through them. To do that, having a mantra can be helpful. In my case, I kept saying, "I am fit, I've trained hard and this is just like any Sunday run in preparation for NYC".

At the 18km mark I started to perk up again and by 19km I was feeling strong. I wasn't able to make up the two minutes that I had lost between 15 and 18k but I picked up enough pace so as not to lose any more ground and got back roughly 30 seconds. I crossed the Walking Bridge (see an earlier post for a pic of the old train bridge) and on the other side there were a dozen or so people waiting and cheering on all runners. That was a nice boost.

The last 500m were great because there were a lot of folks out along the course - some just there to watch but mostly people who had finished earlier - supporting the later finishers. I could see the finish line time clock and realized that I wouldn't make it under 2:08:00 but that I would finish in under 2:08:30 so I broke into a smile and pushed hard to the line. Jill was there to snap a couple of pictures (she also was there for the start and at the 5k point) which I will be posting here on the blog. Was presented with my finisher's medal, a nice pewter momento, and then it was off to rehydrate, get some food, rejoice in the accomplishment and soak in the atmosphere. It's a really cool vibe that you feel in the air after an event like this.

After the race I tried to keep moving and stretch a bit but I ended up heading back to the sidelines just before the finish to cheer on the people who finished after me. I also tried to control my emotions because every time I stopped to think, I started to well up with tears. Not sure why, probably because I was thinking about how this is a big milestone on the journey to New York.

Thanks again to all my donors for getting me to the $5000 mark in advance of Sunday. Stay tuned to my blog for more updates.

Just arrived home after finishing the Fredericton Half Marathon. I am thrilled to report that I finished with a PR (Personal Record) for this distance. I had three goals for today:

1. Finish, upright and smiling, without injury.
2. #1 in a time of 2:20.
3. #1 in a time of 2:10 or better.

Mission accomplished.

Here's the official listing from Atlantic Chip's website:

215 1224 Peter McDougall M 44/54 M4049 2:08:27

That means I finished 215th overall, bib #1224 and 44th of 54 in my gender/age category(Men 40-49).

Watch for a couple of pictures to be added later.

I've now been downtown and picked up my bib number ("1224") and my timing chip. Standing in line I was chatting with a nice young lady from Moncton. She's running the full marathon (42.2k) while I am running the half marathon (21.1k). It's her second marathon having done the ING National Capital Marathon in Ottawa last May. Earlier this morning I met a chap from Newfoundland here for the Full as well. He was commenting upon how beautiful Fredericton is and I of course agree.

Tonight is the pre-race carbo loading dinner - pasta, bread, salad, etc. It's always fun being together with so many other runners.

Tomorrow morning I will be down to the race site early (before 8:30) to watch the start of the Full marathon. Then I will eat some breakfast and try to calm my nerves while I get ready for the 10:30 start of the Half.

Race results will be posted at:

http://www.atlanticchip.ca/events/results.php

Look for me in the Fredericton Half Marathon with a time between 2:10 and 2:30.

Since I posted a picture of my newest nephew, it's only proper that I post pics of my other niece and nephew (Kyla and Dylan), together with their cousins (my daughter Stephanie and my son Christopher).

What a feeling to have just received an email saying that I'd received an on-line donation that puts me "over the top" for my fundraising goal. Thanks to my good friend Peter Macaulay a friend and business associate (Medavie Blue Cross) for his generous contribution.

Shortly after that I received notice of an on-line donation from Ken M., a colleague of my sister-in-law Kristy. Thanks Ken for supporting me, even though we've never met in person!

I am now totally stoked for the weekend run knowing that the Canadian Diabetes Association has already received more than $5000 (with more to come I hope) through the generosity of so many great folks.

Never forget, this isn't just about me running a marathon (part 2 of the goal). It's primarily about finding a cure for diabetes, supporting people who already live with the disease and educating people about how they can reduce their risk of being diagnosed.

Today is the final Friday ... before the Fredericton Half marathon being run on Mother's Day, Sunday May 14th. I did a 5k route last night which is my final run until the event. I felt very good but struggled to ignore the little twinges - in knees, calves, hamstrings, abdomen, etc. - that I seem to notice when I'm running.

Now is the time when nerves start to set in. Not sure why, since I've done what I can to be ready and there's nothing "on the line" for this event. Still, its hard not to feel anxious and doubtful. Sleep will be hard to come by on Saturday night I expect.

On the other hand, I am really excited to be doing this race, the weather forecast is good and it'll be fun to be out participating in a race with lots (400-500) of other people - there is a tremendous spirit amongst runners, regardless of ability level. Particularly looking forward to meeting a couple of Team Diabetes alumni who indicated they would be participating as well as a new Team D member - Danielle - who I've recently met through the blogosphere. She and her sister Christine are taking on the Honolulu marathon and they have a great wesite.

Check out:

http://www.teamdiabetes.bravehost.com/

This is a pic of my newest nephew, Gavin, a.k.a the G-Unit or Golden. For some reason, when I'm looking at it I want to sing the old maritime song, "Wadya Do With A Drunken Sailor".

Arrived at the office this morning and found two on-line donation notices amongst the emails. Now that's a great way to start the day!!

Thanks very much to Heather, a fellow Team Diabetes marathoner and blogger (to whom this page is linked or you can copy and paste into your browser:

http://www.runningtonotfrom.blogspot.com/

Heather also left a comment on my blog - thanks very much for the extra motivation to do well in the Freddy Beach Half on Sunday. I will of course post my race result on this blog. Until then, if you'd like to check out the event, copy and paste:

www.frederictonmarathon.ca

The other on-line donation was from my brother Steve and wife Tara (and baby Gavin, G-Unit, Golden Child). I'm totally impressed that Steve was able to even figure out how to do an on-line donation!! Thanks bro' for the great support. My initial reason for getting involved with Team Diabetes in 2002 was because Steve and my son Chris both live with Type 1 diabetes. In the Dublin marathon I had his initials on the toe of one shoe and Chris' on the toe of the other as visual reminders to motivate me to keep going to the finish.

So, I'm now just below my $5000 target. No doubt I'll achieve it. Only question is when and who will be the donor that puts the total over the top? I am predicting that I will reach the target before Sunday ...

For any reader interested in supporting me by making a donation directly online, it can be done through the Canadian Diabetes Association's secure portal. Follow these instructions:

1. Copy this link and paste it into your browser:
http://www.diabetes.ca/section_donations/TeamDiabetesIndex.asp

2. Clink on Pledge a Participant

3. Fill in your contact information so that the CDA can send you a tax receipt for the donation.

4. Choose the "New York City Marathon" event from the list.

5. Enter my first name - Peter - and my last name - McDougall - where indicated. Spelling matters!!! My city of residence is Fredericton.

6. On the next screen enter your donation amount, credit card details and click on Submit.

Follow the instructions to immediately print your tax receipt or it can be sent to you by mail.

Just back from my lunchtime run. Beautiful sunny day with a slight breeze so perfect for the 5.5k route I planned. Took me about 35 minutes which is about my usual pace. Tomorrow will be a rest day and then I'll do 5-6k on Thursday which will be my final prep for the Fredericton Half Marathon.

Today I did my last long(ish) training run in advance of the Fredericton Half Marathon. The distance was 8 1/2 miles (13.7 km) and my time was 1:22. I'm feeling very confident that I will be able to do the Half (13.1 miles/21.1 km) in 2:15 or better.

This week is called a "taper" week so I will only be doing a couple of shorter (3 mile) runs. Theory is that you give your body a chance to rest a bit in advance of the big effort on race day.

Received a generous donation from my neighbor and fellow St Theresa parishoner, Joan and her husband Jean-Claude. Thanks very folks!!

Also received notice of an on-line donation from my friend Dave K. We met 28 years ago at Basic Officer Training (CFB Chilliwack), spent 4 years together at military college (RRMC and RMC) and over almost three decades of military and civilian life he, wife Mary Ann and family have remained wonderful friends to me, my wife Jill and our clan. Thanks "Kedder" for supporting me and, more importantly, the Canadian Diabetes Association.

Today's run went much better than yesterday's. The distance was shorter (6k) but it felt good throughout. I think my pace may have been a little too fast (for me) during the first half yesterday and that was why I felt so crappy on the return leg.

Rest day tomorrow then a busy weekend. The Fredericton Choral Society, of which I am a member, is performing Brahms' German Requiem on Sarturday night, accompanied by the Fredericton Chamber Orchestra. We have a rehearsal on Friday night, again on Saturday afternoon and then the concert on Saturday night. Somehow will have to try and find a way to rest up so I have lots of energy for my Sunday LSD.

Just back from my scheduled 10k. Covered the distance but second half was tough and I ended up taking several extra walk breaks. It added about 5 minutes to my time. Can't dwell on it though - better to look forward to tomorrow (5k) and then a couple of rest days before my 13k run on Sunday.

Received another on-line donation notice this morning. Thanks Pauline for your support. Also received some donations in today's mail. Thank you to Carey and to Joan for helping me to help the Canadian Diabetes Association.

Today is the first day of running in Week 11, my second to last week of training for the Fredericton Half Marathon. Scheduled for 4 miles at lunch today. Congratulations to my cousin Chris and wife Caroline for their awesome performance in the Winnipeg Police Service Half Marathon on Sens-sational Sunday. Chris burned up the 21.1 km course in 1:45:59 (he was probably being chased by a 'copper) and Caroline was a speedy 2:18:46. I now have my target for the Fredericton Half Marathon on May 14th - 2:18:45 or better!!