We occasionally receive some kind words from our running clients and audiences. We hope you don't mind our sharing them with you. Hopefully in reading them you can gain a little more insight as to the kind of relationships that we enjoy - and we really do mean enjoy - with our clients.

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All have been reprinted here with permission from the authors.
 

2010 Team Boomer New York Marathon.

GP,
I love you man!
I made some mistakes yesterday, 1st one was not entering my finish time when I had a chance. I did too much weaving first couple of miles wasted too much too soon. At 20 I got a bad cramp in my right side, 1st time that happened, I still feel it. But I listened to your words, I believed in my training, I found my cadence and used my inspiration to get through the last 6 not feeling good. I came in at 4:19, off my 4 hour goal, but that gives me something to strive for next year.
I just enlisted a friend to do the same and we will be back with team boomer to achieve our goals and that of the cause.
I also wanted you to know that the gift cards came from a bunch of us who
really understood how much of you, was given to the cause. After a few
conversations that you and I shared, I thought it would be best to let you
decide how to accept our thanks rather than us try and figure out what you
would enjoy more. I know a money card is a bit impersonal, but I am sure you will find something great to do with it.
We are forever linked and I could not be more pleased. When I first started this I was 38, suffering from high-blood pressure, and a few other auto immune issues. I beat them all by getting back in shape. With your guidance I did something I would never have dreamed even possible. Today I am a better man, I will be a better husband and a better father to my children because of what you helped me to believe in myself.
I will be a chariot for your cause as long as I live.
Thank you a million times over.
Your friend
Dave



Coach GP,
I really want to thank you for helping me through my first marathon.
I am thrilled with my time of 4:01:53, which is a half hour better
than I thought I'd do! Since I'll be 50 next year, I've been told
that I qualified for Boston which would be cool if that's true.
I kept thinking about everything you told us - and paid attention to
my breathing, where my hands were, running tall, listening to the
crowd but not high fiving etc. All of that really added up for me.
I loved the whole Team Boomer experience and think there's a very good
chance I'll be back runnng with the team next year.
I hope you were happy with your race. Have fun running this winter.
I can't wait to get back to a running schedule again!
Lissa Short



hi gp! can i tell you how much your speech at the dinner on saturday inspired me?? it actually came into my mind on the 59th street bridge believe it or not. i never actually got to meet you, but i did manage to meet your wife. we were sitting at the table behind you next to boomer's table. in any event, i saw your time and my jaw nearly dropped on the floor. i was still in brooklyn at 2:55. congrats to you although i'm not surprised. considering my status entering this race, and declaring my intention all evening of my 4:30, i ended up at 5:10. BUT a finish nonetheless. it is now my intention to incorporate much of your book's advice and come back again next year to snag my 4:30!!! sidenote: i had loaded my ipod playlist and never noticed til i got home yesterday that i had loaded 5:15 minutes worth of music. i remember thinking "this should be enough". something tells me mentally i should have loaded 4:30 hours of music!!!!!
again, you've heard it many times from others and i can't seem to get my emails to go to "reply all", so thank you so much for all that you've given of yourself to the team and to me personally. i feel so enriched knowing you, jerry and everyone at team boomer. i wish you and your family the best of health and i will be looking for you again next year!...cheers!!....anne

Coach,
Congrats on a great run, although from your blog it wasn't an easy one. I am not sure if I will attempt another marathon, but then again I said that last time :) I will always be a runner, I plan on studying your book and trying to improve my speed and technique. I enjoyed the entire experience and all of the support that you gave us along the way, thank you very much for making the experience a memorable one for me and for your excellent advice every step of the way.
Jenn Crean

Hi Coach GP - Just wanted to individually thank you again for ALL of your help and guidance throughout this training process! It was an AMAZING experience for me and we had a perfect day!
The last 6 miles were definitely a challenge for me but I pushed thru and finished injury free. The group runs were great and I couldn't have done it without all your tips and recommendations.
Thanks again and take care!

All the best,
Kelly Wood


To all,
It was great meeting you all and being part of a great team for a great cause. I commend everyone's efforts and want to thank Jerry and his team at BEF as well as Coach GP. Thank you all for a wonderful experience, one that I will never forget.
Peter G. Politi

Hi all,
I also want to extend my congratulations to all of the team, and my thanks to all of the faces behind BEF. Solely in attempting such a feat, we have experienced something that most will only ever hear or read about. The event exceeded my greatest expectations, and I surpassed my expectations of what I thought I was capable of at this point in my life as well.
I wasn't able to make it to the Team Boomer tent marathon morning, as my bus from NJ didn't arrive until about 8:00, and so with the exception of seeing one fellow team member along the way, I didn't see any of the team on race day. But, although weary of trying out new clothes on race day, I wore my Team Boomer uniform with my name proudly written across the front, and I would be foolish not to believe that the resulting support I received along the way accounted for the difference between having a good race, and having an amazing race and a true experience of a lifetime.
I hope that you are all reveling in and reflecting upon the positivity and great accomplishment that has been this experience. And to our CF'ers who ran, a BIG kudos. An amazing and inspirational human being whom I met earlier this year (and lucky for me, he's my boyfriend too) has CF, which was my motivation to run for Team Boomer. With my commitment to a marathon, he committed to a half-marathon, which he completed in October (in under 2 hours) - something he wasn't sure he could do. Now, after telling him about all of you, the realm of impossibility is diminishing further, and I think we can both see a marathon in his future.
Great job everyone, and best of luck in your future endeavors.
Ashley Gorr

I feel terrible for having left out what made Team Boomer one notch above the rest - an amazingly impressive and incredibly generous coach! A true role model and inspiration. I hope to find a way to adequately express my gratitude. Until then....
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ashley

Hello Team Boomer!
I want to thank you for the resources you have provided me with as a member of your team. Coach GP is an amazing asset to your team! I have never thought in a million years that I would not be running this race this year, please note I am now saying this year because there is always next year, right?
This has been a struggle for me. A decision that I did not want to make on Sunday morning after my test run. Coach GP was there for me, a call I did not want to make, however he helped me make the right decision for my long term health. If it wasn’t for him, I would have made the wrong decision. As I prepared in my mind and ran for the past 5 months, “You can do it. You can run for 26.2 miles.” Running one of the 20 milers I knew I could do it. I didn’t want to give up.
My body is not there right now and I didn’t want to accept that fact. Coach GP helped me with the facts and with making the right decision. He is a professional and I thank you for that resource.
I can’t wait to see you all on Saturday. You are all amazing and Natalie – thanks for the invite to be part of this unforgettable journey.
All the best,
Kate
 

 Hey GP,
You have made such a mark on our lives.  You took a bunch of fledgling
runners and treated us like athletes, making us believe that this was really
going to happen.  After reading your blog Janine and I felt much better
considering we lost over 30 minutes waiting in bathroom lines.  Needless to
say we weren't thrilled with the official time considering we really ran so
much stronger than the time reflects.  It was the 5th best day of my life;
behind my wedding to a great guy, and the birth of my three children.
Life-changing from start to finish.   You were with us through the streets
of NY as we reminded each other to run tall and easy as the miles started to
become challenging.  Because of all we learned from you, I am proud to say
that I didn't feel really challenged until after about 21 miles in.   The
best GP moment we shared though was in that last 300 yards where we laughed
as we approached the magical finish line, following your expert advice to
forget everything you ever taught us and run like hell!  We did!  Glad you
liked the keychain.  We just wanted to give you something to commemorate
your 20th anniversary as a maniac marathoner and something to remind you of
how much you have meant to us.  Post anything you want on your fan page
considering I'm one of your biggest. It really has been an honor and you can
tell Kathleen I said so!  Now...how to tell my husband that I may need to
try this again in 360 days....any thoughts?  :) Talk soon.  -Lisa
Lisa Tacca
 
“NY Marathon 2010
I finished w/ a 4:06:34 time.
Not too shabby for a 50 year old after a 28 year running hiatus. I made it to the NY Times (cutoff of 4:30) on Monday, beat Amani Toomer (former Giants) and only slower by less than 30 minutes from my first NYC Marathon in 1982 (was 22 then). I also give thanks to my Point Pleasant track club headed by GP and Tom! Thanks GP and congrats to you too for the fabulous 2.55 time. You've been an inspiration to me and a million thanks to you and Tom for introducing me to your athletes at the track.
 
We all need to celebrate so see you this Sat”!
Michael
 
Coach GP,
 
I am feeling much better today and was thinking about going to the gym and riding the bike. On Monday I rested all day but I did check out the Boston Marathon for 2011. You cannot even get in from a charity for 2011, but 2012 is possible. It is sinking into me that I completed the New York Marathon and It was my first marathon, and I do feel very proud of that now.
Before coming to the Point Pleasant track workouts my running stride was long and over extended. When I was tired I would keep the same stride or even lengthen my stride because I thought that it was more efficient to keep a longer stride. I did slow my pace down when I got tired but after training with you I learned my long stride would take me low to the ground and that was a problem. Also I would lower my head and back and when I got tired , and I was told that most likely was causing my back and shoulder to hurt on long runs. I also never paid attention to my breathing before coming to the point pleasant track, but I learned how my breathing cadence can effect my pace. After the first few weeks and being told many times to keep my head up by the coaches and other runners I started to keep my head up. It was just an old habit but I now make an effort to keep my head up and run tall. Learning to shorten my stride has helped me to keep pace, run with my back straight and head tall and also run more efficient. 
Well Coach GP I know one thing, there is no doubt in my mind if I did not learn and use these 3 techniques I would have never finished the NY marathon. After feeling great for the first 15 miles it all fell apart at mile 16, my legs and arms started to cramp up and it was very painful. I remembered what you said to do when you get in trouble, shorten your stride and use the breathing cadence. I could hear you emphasizing this in a loud voice on the track, " when you get in trouble you better use the breathing cadence or your finished ". Your lesson helped me get threw the last ten miles of the marathon , it really worked. So I want to thank you GP and all the Coaches for helping me finish my first marathon, it has been an honor to be on the same track with you guys.
Thank You Very Much
Frank Pugliese
 

October 2010

Hi Coach...  Had the best run of my life Sunday!  Slightly over 20 (I had to
get home from where I was!) I could've run the 26.2 yesterday. Wish I could
bottle it up and replicate it in 4 weeks.  Just wanted to tell you since I
heard your voice in my head for about 4 hours off and on.  I couldn't have
gotten this far without you and what I've learned.  I am forever grateful to
you for volunteering your time and expertise and for being there every time
I needed you.  I knew I'd find it in me to finish no matter what, but I
never thought I'd have a 21 mile run that felt like it did.  I finally had
that feeling at mile 18, that I could run forever.  That was a first for me.
I can't thank you enough. Hope all is well.  Talk soon,  -Lisa

Lisa Tacca

 

Good morning Coach GP:
I devoured the book and I loved it. Well done Coach!
I did have one question: Regarding strength training, is your suggestion for each exercise to do 2 sets of 10-12 reps, increasing the weight once 12 reps is comfortably reached? Also, what is the max intensity that I should be shooting for on a scale from 1-10 (muscle failure = 10)?

Again, thanks for writing an accessible, knowledge-filled book!

Cheers!

John C.

July 2010

To GP and Ed Daly of Road Runner Sports

HI Ed,

I apologize for not replying sooner, my email has been down, so I have not been able to send messages for two days.
We want to thank you and GP for coming Monday night. We were greatly impressed with the lecture about the mechanics of running and the necessary “equipment” needed to get the most out of your run. The program was very informative and wonderfully conducted.
The presentation was excellent. You and GP make a great partnership. The members learned a great deal from your lecture and I am sure they plan on following your helpful “suggestions”.
We had a very good turnout and many requested a follow-up session, which The Library would like definitely extend the invitation for.
On a personal note, the lecture was geared to a vast audience, including every type of runner (from beginner to advanced), which was fantastic! The presentation was flawless in my opinion, however if I were to critique anything, I would say there was not enough time! =)
Good luck at your next lecture, which I am sure will be just as successful as it was here in East Brunswick. You may definitely us East Brunswick Library as a reference!
Thank you again, ED and GP for a great presentation. I hope to follow up in the spring for another “Running” presentation.

Have a wonderful summer!

Sincerely,

Vivian Vega

P.S. Ed I plan on visiting your store soon! Thanks for the coupons they were a perfect gift to end your session!

P.P.S. GP, I changed my style of running and I do notice my endurance rising and my time dropping- thanks for your help! =)
 

 

May 2010

Hi Coach GP,

Great to have you at The Fargo Marathon again this year!

Bought your book at the Fargo Expo last year after your speaking event.  With your help and inspiration, my daughter and I were able to count this as our first marathon.

Whenever the going got tough, our motto was "Run Tall, Run Easy". 

I wanted you to know that your passion for running does rub off and that you touch so many lives in such a positive manner.

Thanks again

Rick Monson

 

March 2010

A testimonial for Run Tall, Run Easy from two time USA Olympian, Elva Dryer (2000 & 2004) An excerpt from an e mail from Elva 03/19/10…

Hi GP,
 
How are you?  The book is great.  what I like most is you keep things simple, direct and understandable.  It is a great resource for both athlete and coach of all levels.  Well done!
 
How is Boston training going? 
 
Keep in touch!
 
Elva
 

Hi GP
Hope you are well and enjoying the pre-spring running weather. Just wanted to let you know that I read your book on my flight back from NY Tuesday (as a passenger) and thoroughly enjoyed it. It was not only educational but also fun to read. My running has really suffered between horrific work demands and some injury, but I am getting back on the wagon and appreciate so much your encouragement. Any plans to visit sunny FL ?
Regards
Ben Nemser

 

January 2010

  GP                                                                                                                                                         

Your running accomplishments speak for themselves and are certainly well earned and self satisfying.

Your manner in which you coach runners far exceed the numbers you have clocked in races. I know  there are better runners in the world than you, but I doubt there are any running coaches that equal you. As a sixty year old that has two children of my own and many years on baseball fields , I have seen a wide variety of coaching techniques --- yours are the best. And it is not just knowing about the sport and training schedules that count, it's the little things that count; like when to apply the brake peddle or step on the gas or when to verbally repromand or encourage a runner. I have been running on and off for 45 years without the luxury of a coach or the intensity to "read up" on the sport of running. I simply put on the running shoes and ran, without a plan. When I got injuried, I just simply stopped running.

     I feel very fortunate that our paths crossed and I now have the opportunity to still run. I can continue to compete in my age group with the optimism of doing better than most, all because I have a coach to draw up a plan, navigate around or through injuries, and deliver well timed words of encouragement. Without your complete coaching skills I can assure you that Feb 27th would just be another day in my life. I am looking forward to doing well with my time. Honestly, I have no clue what to expect but I know it will be my best effort that day and alot of fun.

Thank you again and again for your interest and professionalism.

Your friend and student

Nick  Condon

November 2009

Coach GP,

I see from your website that you are a running coach, so I feel it only appropriate to address this email to "Coach GP" even if we only know you as GP.  It was extremely fortuitous to bump into you on the roads of NYC this morning.  I'd like to thank you because I know that Cara and I would not have made it to the line without your experience, wisdom, camaraderie, encouragement and dearth of running  knowledge.                                      Conserving on the uphills, building up a slight reserve and holding serve on the flats were all instrumental in our success.  We are both thrilled with our 2009 NYC marathon experience and we owe a large part of that to you.  I hope our company helped you reach your goal as well even if it was a small bit.                                                       

Congrats on all of your successes in the coaching and running world.  You have quite a resume and it was really cool to run with someone as accomplished as yourself.  I'm sorry to hear about your father but he raised a great man and I'm sure that he was smiling down on you and us today.  Cara and l will never forget this day and I'm amped that all three of us made it under three hours. We are both really glad that you nailed your goal while running in your Dad's memory and we were there to share in that experience.                                                          

Cheers,                                                                                                                      Joe F

GP,

Cara and I can make a trip to Brielle easily.

   After reading your bio I noticed some funny parallels. I, too, am a surfer but have been surfing less and less over time. Do you paddle out in the winter? I used to make it out every month back in high school but my time is so limited now and I rarely get out with a few weekends in the summer being the exception. I did manage to catch 2 full days of hurricane Bill this summer which was incredible. I could see investing in a new suit for a couple winter sessions. The second funny thing is that Cara, Like your wife is a dancer herself although not at the professional level but did it throughout high school and college.

On going forward with running I'm not really sure what I'm going to do. I love working out and running is fantastically primal and simple  so I'll probably do a workout here or there which would fit nicely in with a trip to your place. I don't know if the marathon distance is right for me. I spent about ten years rowing and even made it to England to compete twice. The training is similar but different. Since rowing involves moving weight, you simply can't do it as long with high intensity. 3 hours versus 6 minutes is a world of difference. I don't find the 2-3 hour training runs enjoyable in the least unless it's a race. I foresee myself running another marathon but right now I'm de-compressing from this one.  After training for the Henley Royal Regatta beginning in February/March  and the NYC marathon I need a rest.

I cannot reiterate the point enough that our pack of four with you as commander enabled us to finish in the fashion we did. I'm forever grateful for that.  Let's set something up for a workout with your group before it gets too darn cold.

Joe F

 

Hi GP,

Echoing Joe, I also received your fantastic email. It would be wonderful to join you on the Jersey shore for a track workout and brunch with you and Kathleen, Luke and Sam.  I can't wait to start running again as soon as we are all rested and rejuvenated from the marathon. Your family is very lucky to have you, did they come to watch you in the marathon?

Joe and I were talking about how we never would have made it through the marathon and under three hours without you. We truly believe that - it was incredibly fortuitous and we are so thankful we were able to run with you. Your steady pace, positivity, and strategies of putting time in the bank and focusing through mile 20  were so helpful. I was already struggling at mile 6, and seeing you and Marty across the barrier helped me keep going. Running with you, Joe and Marty was incredible and I know I would not have been able to go on if it hadn't been for the three of you.

Breaking 3 hours for the first time was so special, and I hope it never loses it's magic when you cross the finish in under 3 hours, no matter how many times. And I'm glad you could do it in honor of your father. What an amazing day and amazing experience, and I'm glad we could share it together.

I hope we all keep in touch and I'm excited to continue running and seeing each other.

Where are you headed next for racing?

Wishing you all the best,

Cara K

 

Coach GP

 

GP, I know I have already thanked you for all your help and assistance in my journey to prepare to run a marathon, but I must one more time repeat the words "Thank You so Very Much! You have been tough when needed, but mostly very gentle and careful to gradually build my physical strength - endurance and mental confidence to finish the deal ! WE DID IT, BOSS!!   

    It's been a few days now since the marathon and I'm doing quite well, I think. My legs feel almost completely normal - it will be interesting to do that little 20 minute light jog on Saturday // b-4 I go to the Michigan - Penn State Game! I have also noticed that I seem very tired and am resting quite a lot. I'm just going with the flow here and not worrying at all about needing extra rest. In addition, I've been quite emotional thinking back over the entire experience. I've always been a guy who wears his emotions on his sleeve, so to speak, so I figure this is somewhat normal after making it thru your 1st marathon. The feelings have been pretty strong occasionally the last few days I must admit. Feelings of relief, mixed with sadness, also pride, gratitude, joy ......... I've been all over the place with feelings and emotions - - I'VE BEEN FOCUSED FOR SO LONG and now everything is just letting loose, I guess? 

      So, what have I learned? Well, 1st of all the human body is an amazing machine - - even at 65 years old !! I hope I never again doubt the power of dreaming BIG .... if it's something you want, whether you're young or old, if you're willing to make the sacrifices you can and will make it happen! I also learned that the journey is at least as important as the race or it's outcome. I'm probably more proud of the fact I never missed a training run our entire time together than the fact I completed the marathon, as huge as that was<.> I also learned a lot about running / training, etc. Stuff I will surely use as long as I'm out there doing it !  I think this brings me to the question, "Where do we go from here?"

Jack Hanna

 

June 2009

Hi GP,

Just a few quick comments about your book. I've read it twice now during my commute on the train to work and it goes without saying that it's not only informative but insightful and entertaining. The FAB 4 is engrained in my brain and I plan to incorporate some of your top 20 training exercises into my next strength training plan. A special mention goes to your "Fire Within" chapter which really hit home, in particular, the "Ultimate Training Partner" section. I usually run alone and now I have some additional thoughts and wisdom to get me out the door.

Thanks,

Tony
 

May 2009    

Dear Coach GP,

I would like to order an additional book and, if possible, I would greatly appreciate if you could inscribe it to my friend and running partner, Jeff.  He, too, is a psychologist as am I.

One of my keen interests in the idea of "mindfulness".  I am especially interested in how it applies to running and the "mental" issues that arise when running, especially long distances.  It is interesting how much "intention" it takes to focus on something like form, cadence, etc.  Hopefully, the form corrections will become automatic and a sense of muscle memory will develop.

I finished your book in two settings and found some of the advice to be very helpful, particularly with my particular issues.  I am also trying to use some of the exercises that you recommend.  I used to be a zealot about sticking to my training schedule and, admittedly, have gotten pretty sloppy in the last year or so.  I am in total agreement with you that the core is the source of running energy/power and that is probably what I have neglected most.

If there is a form for ordering the book and paying for it please let me know and I can get it taken care of.  Thanks for you help.

Rick Mangold

P.S.  What a snappy webpage!

 

Coach GP,

You sure can add my testimonial to your website.  I would be glad to give you any additional information if you would like.  I will contact you next week about an additional book but I will wait until next week.

I agree that I should be careful about too many marathons.  I try to use some of them as "long runs" so I don't really push it too much.  I am only trying to run competitively twice per year, at least in the marathon.  That is one spring and one fall race.  It is just too hard to run fast every race.  My best time, by the way, is not nearly as impressive as yours, a mere 2:56 but that's not too bad for 54 years old.  This, incidentally, was the tip off that something biomechanically is wrong since my time has plummeted nearly 30 minutes from only a year ago.  I feel optimistic that I can fix this.  I also decided to run a series of shorter races (5K & 10K) to help me focus on form issues and to build my anaerobic capacity. 

Thanks again and I will contact you next week.

Richard Mangold

 

Coach Pearlberg,

I'm sure you meet too many people to remember but I wanted to pass along my post-race experience following our "clinic" at the University of Illinois expo.  I talked with you for about 15 or 20 minutes and you gave me some pointers to help me improve my form especially as the marathon draws to a close.  It was too late to do anything at the U of I race but, since then, I have had three weeks to recover/train and eventually run the Lincoln Marathon.  Here's what happened.

I have focused on running tall, moving my arms, and improving my cadence by driving my knees a bit (not a lot) more.  I immediately noticed that I was experiencing soreness in my ankles, of all places, and that I was sore in muscles I am not usually sore in.  I suspect these are the accessory muscles that I am using to maintain posture and run with better form.  Subsequently, I ran the Lincoln Marathon and finished in about the same time as U of I (3:37) however, following the race I experienced very little soreness and was back running pain free in two days.  I think the form tweaks have been helpful, so far, but I suspect that I have spent so much time running with bad form (or poor form) that it may take me many months to really fix the problem.  I try to be mindful of my form and run easy.  Additionally, I had a lot of soreness and tightness in my Achilles tendon before the form correction and, after the race, I had very little.  Again, I have practiced poor form for so long it may take some time to fix it.

I cannot run 26.2 miles with a forefoot strike but I can easily midfoot strike and I think that this may be why my tendinitis has subsided.  I truly was a heel striker....but, never more!

Will you be at any expos in the Midwest during 2009?  I would like to pick up another copy of your book for a running friend of mine.  I really appreciate your help and feel like I am breaking out of my running rut!  Sometimes going back to the basics is the best thing to do.

Dr. Richard Mangold

 

From Jack Hanna,
Getting faster at 65 years old !~
Thank you, GP, for your encouraging words this AM via
e-mail and for letting me gloat a little over the phone post race. It was a truly great experience for me and surely a testament to all the hard winter training. No doubt in my mind that I would not have won my age group without your help.... so take a bow, Coach.... You were there with me at the finish!

                                                                        

Coach,                                                                                            I am glad you are so busy, and I am doubly reluctant to take up your time. I think you know me well enough to know that while my running knowledge is severely limited, it is not so limited that I am unable to discern the profound nature of your knowledge and the value of seeking your advice.  Every time we come down to Brielle, we spend an additional 3 hours commuting (and associated costs), which, believe me, we would not do if we thought we were receiving anything but world class advice. Between you and me, I think it would be a miracle for Joe to break 5:00 under the circumstances and I would be happier to end his season right now, get him healthy, and have an additional couple of weeks to address his weaknesses and prepare for X-C.  While being careful not to tell him that I think his chances are too remote to justify this effort, I have given him every opportunity to shut things down, but he just refuses to even consider it.  Yesterday, on the track, I saw a kid whose fitness is barely at the 5:00 level on a good day, but I was amazed how he took what you asked him to do and plugged on as best as he could. That was a nasty way to run 3x400m, especially for someone in his condition.  Today, he got on the bike (which he never rides) and said "Wow, this is going to be painful", but when I said just do the best you can, he said "I am going to complete this workout if it kills me!"  That is a completely different kid than he was even a couple of weeks ago, and I just hope we can get through this with his new attitude in tact.  I would trade that for a 5:00 (which I am sure we can blow right through with a good summer of steady work) mile in a heart beat.                                                                                           We will keep you posted.                                                                                                              Regards and thanks,
Bob

The names in the above have been changed for confidentiality…        

April 2009

GP,
It was great to catch up with you last night after my amazing Boston experience.  I followed your guidance as best I could.  I really felt relaxed and in control through 16 miles then the hills came.  I truly believe I was well prepared considering my setbacks to run a great race.  I am very happy with my results.  I know if I did more hill training (given better health and no injuries) that I could have gone faster.
The whole experience was unlike anything I have done before- the course, the awesome crowds, the # of runners, the quality of runners, the organization, the entire experience is something I will never forget.  I only wish I started when I was younger but I will do the best with what I have now!
Of course I am very sore now but will consider my future marathon plans when I recover.  Thank you so much for everything you did for me- from teaching me restraint at the beginning and training smart to the whole program.  All of your dedication and guidance are greatly appreciated! 
I’m still learning after having trained on my own for so long.  I enjoy the camaraderie with the Stingers and the Saturday morning track club.  You are passionate about running and teaching others.  I’m glad I met Steve Ludeking and he introduced me to you, Tom and the rest of the running folks.  I’ll follow the post race schedule and ease back into training.  I will need a new goal though and we can discuss that when we catch up to talk about my “Boston Experience”!
 
Thanks, Doug Twyman
 

Hey Coach GP;

Rolla, the Golf Pro (and part time runner) here...just a note to thank you for your words at the seminar at the Illinois Marathon.  I read much of your book the night before the race and focused on running tall for the entire 13.1 miles and with very little training, finished in a respectable time and felt in control all the way.  It was a good weekend (even though Kenny Perry couldn't hold on at the Master's) and your words of wisdom helped me to run faster than I thought I would and gives me hope to improve in my upcoming races, in my attempt to run in every state.  Thanks again and good luck with your coaching!!!

Rolla N. Frisinger
PGA Golf Professional
Golf Club of Coldwater

 

October 2008

Coach,                                                                                                                Just received your book…I have not put it down yet!  I won’t bore you with a whole bunch of stuff but here goes.  I ran XC from 72-76 in high school and quite frankly I stunk, loved to run my best time 15:30 for a 5k that was in my junior year.  College came and I dropped out and became an addict.  Spent some time in Colorado got charged with a federal offense. Did my time and cleaned myself up, got married we just celebrated 27 years I was fortunate and blessed to have 5 children one is not with us as the Housatonic River here in CT took him.                                                                           In March I turned 50 and in February I started walking/running again after all these years.  It felt great to be running again and after abusing the body for as long as I did I felt I owed to myself to treat it accordingly. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would ever “race” again but…every Tuesday night in the summer in New Canaan CT at Waveny Park there are 5k XC races through the woods and fields.  I then raced the 4^th of July 4 mile race in New Canaan, the 20k in New Haven and I just finished the Hartford ½ marathon. One problem coach even though I have gotten in great shape I am still running 10 minute miles and its killing me. I mean I do workouts on the track, tempo runs etc etc.  I am hoping that as I read your book the light bulb will go on and I will finally understand how to run properly. It has gone full circle and now I am determined to get it right.  Some of the more veteran runners tell me Mark you haven’t run like this is 35 years what do you expect it will come back. I am not convinced that I am running properly has I have run and trained for races since the beginning of  Feb and I see a great improvement in my conditioning etc but no improvement in my times.  Anyway I am grateful for the book now I just need to apply what I read.  Sorry for the long post.                                    Mark Bonitatebus                                                                                        I forgot to mention that I have been given an opportunity to help counsel other heroin; cocaine addicts something I wish I had when I went through that horror show.  Thanks again Mark

Hi Coach GP &Tom                                                                             Thanks for the coaching plan. I ran 1 hr 48 06 . This was better than I expected so I was very happy. The early part of the race was very congested, catching the marathon pack up having just started was not ideal .The area approaching the bridge was so narrow you had elbow through which wasn't good. I found I could adjust my pace to get around people which came in handy .Had trouble seeing many of the mile markers ,I wasn't the only one. All in all I enjoyed it .Wasn't fatigued when I got home so planted 100 tulip bulbs. Have been doing pilates as well as running, I think its a great combination.So thanks again I think the biggest part of the training was learning to run faster not just doing the long runs .I need to keep up with the short fast stuff ,it paid off. Thinking about a marathon next year .....                                                                    Thanks Karen

Hi
My friend Jan and I had a brief chat with you at the expo. I just wanted to let you know that in spite of not being as trained as I should have been, I was pretty happy with the whole event and I do think that you should take some credit! I tried to stay tall and to plant my foot so that I wasn’t “oscillating” and it really did help! I guess just having something to think about for that many miles is also a plus! J
I haven’t read the whole book (yet) but except for the “wrist flick”, the parts I’ve read so far make sense and seem pretty easy to implement. I’m having trouble picturing the wrist flick. But hopefully I will figure that out, I feel quite inspired to improve my running!
Thanks,
Beki
Rebecca Franchock

Hi GP,

I just wanted to say thank you again for the run today. I learned a lot from listening to you and getting your tips. I now know what I need to work on the next three months to attain my goal in Philly. I will concentrate on my breathing, get into a better rhythm throughout the whole course and work on some hills. I feel like I am getting closer and closer to what I want to achieve and without your coaching and the coaching of Tom and John I would not be where I am at presently. Thank you for allowing me to join the track work outs and your advice. It has all given me such confidence. You guys are all awesome. Thank you, truly!!!

 Kathleen Van Norman

Coach GP,

I wrote a summary of the day.

I started with last year, and continued it to this year’s race. 

                    Ironman challenge 2008

 There were many factors involved in successfully completing this event.

The first is having the passion and respect for the sport of triathlon. If you don't understand it, it will kick your butt; as it did with me a year ago this week.

                    I have been competing in triathlons for about 4 years and I love it. The goal for me last year was completing an Ironman distance race. After doing all the other distances this would be the icing on the cake.

So last August I decided to take the challenge. My wife and I got in the car and drove to Louisville Kentucky, were the race was being held.  I finished the race that day and I was lucky to do so.

It was very hot like it was this year. 

My body could not retain any sodium or fluids and at that time I knew nothing about nutrition or pacing myself for such a long day. The heat and lack of good training got the best of me that day. I knew I needed a new plan.  Coach GP was the answer. Confident in his long term training program I knew this is what would lead me to succeed.

         Fast forwarding to August 2008 Ironman week

     The trek from New York to K. Y. was long but we left plenty of time to rest my muscles outside of the car. As the big day grew closer I felt my nerves starting to grow. Being around other tri athletes and their families is nice because were all feeling the same; very anxious.

         Preparation is a huge part of it as well; checking your gear and equipment and then double and triple checking everything.

     For my pre race day diet I tried to eat pretty bland, a lot of carbs and salty foods.

         Race morning finally came.  I barely slept that night.  We got   a wake up call at 4:30A.M., and started to eat the first 700 calories of the day. It’s not that enjoyable that early in the morning, but necessary.

 Andrea and I left the hotel room around 5:30 to start our journey.

It was A 20 minute walk the swim start. There were lights lighting the path along the way, and then we had to search for the end of a line of about 1500 people. The start of the race was a time trial start instead of a mass start, which I preferred.

 We hung out on line stretching and talking to other athletes and their families; soon after the sun started brightening the sky.

        7:00 on the dot the cannon goes off, getting the crowd pumped up for the start.

    I jumped in the water at 7:40, feeling very excited ,but also knowing this is going to be A long and challenging day.

    My focus was on nutrition, and pacing myself. Finishing was not a big concern because I knew the training made me ready.

    The swim was in the Ohio River, A large body of water with pretty strong currents. The swim for me is the toughest of the three sports. Getting out of the water is when it gets fun for me.

         When I got on my bike, I was far behind in the pack. Trying to catch up took a while, but I did and I felt like I was with equal competition.

    Now my focus was on eating, drinking and praying the heat won't get me.

  I started to get a nice pace around mile 20 .The terrain was very hilly and I didn't want to go out to strong. I finished about 6 hours later.

 It’s a very bittersweet feeling when you come into the bike finish.

The sweet is that you just cycled 112 miles .And the bittersweet knows you still have a marathon to run in 92 degree heat.

Changing in and out of your gear is done in a large tent, set up with chairs, fans and an aid station.

 Volunteers help you change which is great. When you change into your running shoes they feel like slippers.

Starting to move from a walk to a run motion is very hard, but eventually your muscles adjust.

 Run course was a double loop with a few hills along the way.

    The first thing I was looking forward to on the course was seeing my wife. She was waiting at mile 2 holding a handmade sign that could win a creative design award.

   She gave my big kiss, words of encouragement and snapped A few pictures.

 I was then on my way. There was an aid station every mile, so my goal was to pace myself until I reached each one to refuel. Focusing on Ice water, water sponges for my head and body and pretzels, chicken broth was also important for the sodium.

  The volunteers were also amazing in so many ways. Giving the athletes everything they needed.

By the time 12 miles came around on the course, I was thinking about the rest of the race, its length, and terrain ad how I was going to reserve the rest of my fuel.

  Seeing Andrea 1 more time on the course definitely helped break up the monotone.

After holding a good pace I arrived at mile 20. Examining myself for any muscle pulls, cramps or being dehydrated was important at this point.

I'm seeing a lot of athletes fading away with only 6.2 miles to go.

 In my thoughts I am confident that I can start moving a little faster, even though my body was telling me no. It was mind over matter.

        If I could get the next 5 miles down the rest of the running fuel will be from pure excitement.

   While passing about 60 people, I was determined to finish strong.

        The last half mile arrived and the crowd in the streets started to thicken. Cheering was getting louder, and I started feeling goose bumps on my skin.

       As I rounded the last corner toward the long chute of the finish line, lights were beaming down on me and the other athletes.

     Finish line was in sight, with a sea of people screaming and cheering like I've never heard.

        As you cross the line, the announcer yells your name over the speakers.

  Saying John Paxton you are an Ironman.

   You feel like a superstar.

 A big Beautiful metal gets put around your neck.

 Then quickly your body breaks down and your muscles feel like their being torn apart. The volunteers run over to hold you to make sure you can walk, and talk O.k.  Once A few minutes goes by your body starts to get used to standing still.

 And then the best moment comes when you can share the moment with your loved ones. For me it was my wife waiting, and then I talked to my family over the phone.

        Truly amazing!

 Thanks John Paxton

 

May 2008- from Christine Clifton of Shore Runner

Hi GP!

Thank YOU!  You always add quality and professionalism to our events and we appreciate your time.  It was a fun (but COLD & WINDY) weekend and hope we can do it again soon.  Anything we can do to help just let us know! 

 Thanks, Chris & Mike

Coach GP,

Hello from Fargo! Thanks so much for making the Fargo Marathon
such a blast! I thoroughly enjoyed your talk and energy.  I came to
the race as a fan.  I was there to support my Dad. 
I left the race newly inspired.  I am a runner from years ago.
I still hold my High School record in the 3200.  That was set back
in 1988. My Dad still holds the Mile record at the same school.
Which he set in 1968.  (I missed it by 2/10's)
I always keep fit with various forms of exercise.  Yoga
walking, weight training, and so forth.  I left running as it seemed
too 'hard on my body'.  Your talk resonated with me on a proper-
form level.  Looking closely at bio-mechanics makes complete
sense.
Please let me know when your book is available.  I would like to
get a copy for sure.  Does this book cover what you spoke about
at the spaghetti feed?  The part about proper breathing count, in
relation to arm movement and stride?  This really interests me,
the timing in relation to breath.  Your philosophy and ideas
make running so inviting again.  In fact I have been training every
day since I heard your wisdom.
Thanks for the Inspiration,

Shannon Just

(March 2008)

From Kevin Forde

A.S.V.P.{Another Satisfying Victory Performance}

The third of the four "Thursday Nite At The Races"at The Armory,and like a month ago it was the mile and 800m and then 3,000m,so I was looking to pull off the mile and 800m double again.Seeded 5th in heat 2 of the mile I allowed myself to be pulled along in the middle of the pack early on as I clocked opening splits of 35.73,34.61,35.61 and 35.72 for a 2.21.67 at 800m{I didn,t take my splits muchless commit them to memory but my team mate Ray was kind enough to do so for me}I was 5th or 6th at this stage holding my place on the rail and trying to run as economic a race as possible,all the while keeping an eye on the leaders who were 10 meters ahead of me.
Things began to liven up on the 6th lap as my pace dropped to 36.08 due to the runner ahead of me slowing,at first I resisted moving out from behind him as I wanted to ride the rail as much as possible,however as we came upto the end of lap 6 not only did I realize this runner was slowing but so to did the two runners behind me and as they moved by me in lane 2, I realized I had to get out from behind the runner ahead of me period but also not let the lead 3 runners open up too much of a gap.No worries,w/out ever panicing I cut my stide half way into the first turn,moved up into lane 2 and gave a short burst of acceleration to move ahead of the three runners who stood between myself and the lead 3,in one move I,d gone from 7th to 4th in 30 meters and now put myself in striking range of the leaders,not only was this the move that set me up for the kill but it was also a master stroke by yours truly if I say so myself,getting out of trouble was one thing but not showing my hand to the lead 3 was also a tactical triumph.4.02.57 at the bell I launced my kick coming off the first turn down the back straight as I moved out into lane 2 to pass my three rivals b4 cutting back into the inside lane b4 the last bend on route to a closing lap of 30.41 to win my second mile here at The Armory in 4.32.98.
Yet again negative splits like I,d managed last month,out in 2.21,2.11 back,a second up on last months time and my 2nd fastest mile to date.I had plenty to be pleased w/,obviously a victory is always welcome,the time was also something to smile about and the fact I got to do all this in front of Coach GP made it all the more sweeter.Following GP,s mile we warmed down together as I listened w/ intent to everything he had to tell me,his influence on me over the last eight months has been enormous and my recent times and performances bare that out.
And so to the 800m,seeding myself at 2.02 I was somewhat surprized to find myself in the opening heat which actually worked in my favour,in order to stay competitive in this heat I was going to have to run as hard as I could.From the brake line after 100m I tucked myself in towards the rear of the field,all the while having at least one runner behind me saving me from having to bring up the rear.Unlike a month ago when I really felt the effects of my 4.33.09 mile on lap 3 of the 800m tonite I felt comfortable and when the bell went I was able to pick off Gladstone Jones down the back straight and began a great battle w/ a Fordham runner going into the final turn and up the home straight,he held me off to claim 7th but I was far from unhappy w/ my 8th place in 2.02.91,a 100th of a second faster than my best time last year which untill a month ago was my pr till I clocked a 2.02.58 here.
Another great nite here at The Armory but sadly my last in this series,the final meet in two weeks time clashes w/ my weekend trip to Boston to run the Masters Invitational 800m,however I would fully expect to be back at my beloved Armory for a final visit this winter on March 2nd

Hi Coach GP,
I just read your recent article in the Map My Fitness newsletter, and wanted to write to you.
I'm a 26 year old female who picked up road cycling after watching a good friend (someone younger than me, who has raced semi-pro) of mine ride her way through the summer last year.  At the time that I starting working out, it was the first time in my young adult life that I had ever seriously worked out...despite the fact that I had tried many times before.  It should be mentioned that about 8 months earlier, I had been diagnosed with a kidney disease that I will live with for the rest of my life, and will need to be monitored and maintained through constant medication. 
I picked up cycling in the gym, and in early September, my partner suprised me with my very own cherry red Trek 1500 with a bright yellow bow on it....a $1200 incentive to keep working hard.
Since September, I have lost 45 pounds and am continuing to lose the weight and get in shape.  I currently sit at about 225 pounds which is still above the weight a 5'11" woman should be at, but it is the motivation to be leaner, stronger, and healthier that keeps me going.
You talked about the world record runner being your motivation to keep working harder.  My motivation is the waistline...and at some point being able to drop my good friend in a sprint on the road.  She doesn't know it, but that is my goal...and I think about it everyday.
Thanks for the article.  Even though I'm not a runner, there are many applicable things in there I am thankful for. 
mickey
________________________________________________
Mickey Fitch
Ames, Iowa 

(March 2008)

Hi
Your story is just what I needed to hear.

I have just turned 64 and I am walking my first marathon on May 3 in Rotorua NZ. Two years ago I couldn't walk one block and then I had both my hips replaced which has made an amazing difference in my whole life.

Last year in March, I went along to support my son in the Iron man event in Taupo. It was my birthday and he and his wife gave me a set of Nordic walking poles. It was then I decided that this year I would walk the marathon.

I downloaded a training plan and training has been going well, increasing my distances and decreasing my times as I go. And then last week I started battling with a whole lot of aspects - most of which mean absolutely nothing. It has been really interesting because in the last week I have had so much feedback from others who know I am doing this and who are so motivated by what I'm doing. While they've been getting motivated by me, my motivation was going downhill and just I didn't know how to get out of it.

Now I have read your story it has given me a whole new way to look at it - thank you
Regards Carol
Hamilton, New Zealand

(March 2008)

I read your inspiring article.  I am 50 years old and just beginning!  Wondering, what could it be for me in that far-off exotic place!  I walk for 3 minutes, run (or should I say job) for 2 minutes.  I have no desire to be a marathon runner.  I want to get into shape.  But I still need something in the distance! Any suggestions??????? Thank you!!!!!!!  Have a great rest of the week.

Lea Ann Ferrell

2007 Lincoln Nebraska
National Guard participant

“GP,
First, let me remind you of who I am- I was with Holly Scott (from Delaware) at the airport, departing from Lincoln Nebraska last week. It was great to meet you at the Lincoln/National Guard Marathon! Thank you for supporting the National Guard with your extremely inspirational talk. I think it helped many of us get through the marathon with minimal issues! I felt good after that race, but then I did some track work on Saturday (which I don't normally
do!) and some other events with the Fort Lee Army 10 miler team. Now, I am sore! I did out do the guys in holding the push up position for 7 1/2 minutes.

I hope that you can come to the SunTrust Richmond Marathon in November. It is the 30th anniversary. There is also an 8K event. The website is www.richmondmarathon.com. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help out with coordination if you can attend.

I may be interested in your on-line coaching, as I would like to shave some time off of my 1/2 and full marathon. I finished Lincoln in 3:55, and my best was 3:21, about 10 years ago. Recent times are higher, as I was injured last year, and I am now in the process of building my running foundation again.

Again, thank you for your support of the National Guard!!”

“Coach G.P,
I attended the Nebraska marathon Sunday with my brother who
is national guard. I heard your lecture and loved it. When is this
edition (2nd) of your book coming out? I can not locate an old copy at this time and am anxious to get started with the reading and applying of your techniques. Thank you

Merrily Welch”

An e mail to Jan Seeley from Sgt. Jack Murphy who is in charge of the Lincoln marathon for the National Guard

“Jan,

I just wanted to let you know that Coach GP was nothing less than AWESOME while in Lincoln...His instruction on how to be a better runner was really taken in by our runners as I received countless positive comments about him from not only the runners, but from our Adjutant General and the Lincoln Track Club as well...

His heartfelt honestly in his remarks at our social were very much
appreciated and respected by all...He spoke about his lack of knowledge about the military prior to coming to this event...He talked about the impact that being around our group has had on him, and that he will take with him a better understanding, and a much different outlook about who we are, and what we do...

He is only the second of all of the speakers that I have had who actually socialized with the runners after the awards ceremony and even went to dinner with them...

He mentioned to me that he was very impressed by the number of sub-3 hour marathoners from our team, and would like to establish a training program for our team to help them to become even greater runners...He said that he will be in contact with me pertaining to this...

I hope that you will pass on to GP that his presence this past weekend was a very positive one that we will not forget!

Thanks very much for recommending Coach GP...We hope to have him back again in the future!

Jack”

JOHN (JACK) G. MURPHY
SFC, NE ARNG
National Guard Bureau Marathon Coordinator

“From Sgt Phil Perone

Thanks for a fun time and all the biomechanics information. I thought about your talk during the race many times. I was having a hard day probably due to my schedule over the past few weeks. I knew by mile eight it was going to be a long day. I accepted the attitude to work hard but live to fight another day.

I was running with my 10 year old daughter yesterday and noticed she had the stiff wrists and crossed her arms across her body. I used your suggestions about breaking her wrists and worked with her some. She has other issues but too many things at once will confuse her.

Thanks for sharing your time and energy with me this weekend. Your passion for life and family is very contagious.

Phil”

National Guardsman
“Hi GP,
I talked with you yesterday evening at the hotel bar & at the Guard Awards ceremony. I was the guy trying to achieve the goal of bench pressing 300 pounds and running a 3 hour marathon. Crazy, hey?

Actually, I’d like to get a 2:59:59 just to say I’ve done one sub 3.

Thanks for your words of encouragement and tips. My fellow Guard runners and I enjoyed your commentary and extremely happy that you were our speaker this year.

I’m also glad you squashed a little argument my teammates and I had about training at a lower heart rate. It has been tough for me to go slow, but I’ve been keeping my heart rate between 135-140 and it has helped me. I don’t expect to see a big increase in my cardio fitness until another 3 months or so. My friends didn’t believe me in training at a lower heart rate until he asked you about it. They still owe me a beer for not believing me.

My next Marathon is Grandmas Marathon in Duluth, MN (Dick Beardsly holds the record) and Twin Cities Marathon after that. Lincoln was my 26th marathon and this will be my 11th TCM. When you get up this way for the TCM expo this fall, we’ll have a few New Castle’s waiting for you, courtesy of the MN Guard, or me (1LT Chris Grupe).

This is our team photo, I’m the guy in the back 3rd from the left (or shortest in the back row).

Thanks again & best regards,

Chris Grupe”

“ Coach GP,

Just wanted to send you a quick note to thank you for the awesome information you shared with the runners of the Lincoln Marathon.

I used every one of your "Fab 4" throughout my run of the 1/2 marathon and doing so made a big difference in how I felt during the run and after. Having the information you shared made me feel a little bit like I knew what I was doing.

I am an "almost" 40 yr. old mother of 5 and started out as an absolute non-runner. I remember serving as the student manager of my junior high track team because I wanted to hang out with my friends but hated running too much to join the team! I started seriously looking towards running the 1/2 about 14-15 weeks ago and was running about a 15 minute mile. I finished the 1/2 in 2:24:15, and felt WAY better than I thought I would at the end. "Run tall", "drive the arms",
"breathe",and "be a pusher, not a puller" is what I kept repeating to myself during the run. The funny "bop the midget" phrase also entered my mind several times!

After this first positive experience with the 1/2 I am looking forward to trying some other distances and running the 1/2 again next year. I'm also anxious to read your book and check out the DVD. My husband is a high school basketball and track & field coach, so maybe I'll even be able to teach him a few things eventually!

Again, many thanks for the positive impact you made on my first 1/2 marathon experience!!!!!!

Sincerely,
Kimberly Weeks
Beatrice, Nebraska”

 “Coach [Admiral!]:
What a distinct pleasure it was to meet and learn from you!
As we discussed after the race, my 22 minute quicker time (w/o pain!) was a direct result of your workshop.
The following is my e-mail sent to the Lincoln Track Club:

What a GREAT marathon! Well organized, super volunteers, and good weather [rain was OK; can't we do something about the WIND!!]. This was my first Lincoln, but it won't be my last!
I ran the Little Rock Marathon in March with former Arkansas Governor [and now presidential candidate] Mike Huckabee and finished with lots of hip pain in 4:22 (age 59). I attended one of the workshops put on by Coach GP and he taught me that I had been running incorrectly for 30+ years! I took his suggestions, applied them to my race, and finished in 4:00 with NO hip pain...WOW!!! I have NEVER been to a workshop where I got SO much out of 90 minutes and believe me, as a public school teacher, I have been to a LOT of workshops! Thank you for having him...I shall be eternally grateful!
CW3 Kopecky, Arkansas Army National Guard

Sincerely,
JFK
Joseph F. [Jay] Kopecky ”

2007 Fargo marathon From the race directors Mark and Cassi Knutson
GP -

“Thank you SO much for joining us again this year and for making our event SO special! We are very, very fortunate to have you "in our corner." We consider you a very good friend and a true professional in everything you do.

We are anxious to see you again! In the meantime, please do not hesitate to let us know if there is anything we can do for you.

Mark and Cassi”

“Dear Coach GP,

I would just like to express my thanks to you.

I attended your 40 minute talk on Saturday, the day before the [2005] New Jersey Marathon. I learned more in those 40 minutes on running technique than I have in all the books I have read and all the instruction that has been given to me during my running "career". This was my first marathon at 54 years of age and all through the run I remembered your 4 major points.

This enabled me to enjoy every mile and experience 4 hours and 38 minutes of the coolest time I ever had. Also, thank you for the personal tips on running into the wind and with the wind.

I will be Running Tall and Running Easy for the rest of my life.

With much appreciation,

Tom Bergman”

“Hi GP

Ray Disperati here. First off, let me say that I enjoyed your talk on Thursday. I read your book over the next day and a half. That's the first time I've read a running book from cover to cover. I kept your Fab 4 in my mind throughout the 10K I ran on Sunday. By the way, I met my goal of breaking 50 minutes (49:26), as this was my first significant effort in almost 11/2 years. I even had a negative split, although a tiny one. As I indicated at your presentation, at mile 4-5 fatigue starts setting in and I really have to concentrate on form and breathing. Your book reinforced that aspect. With this 10K completed, I'm going to use it my base and make some changes to my training routine and incorporate some of your techniques. During my warm-up run yesterday, I tried the 3-3 breathing technique. It looks like it may work given enough practice. Currently I use 2-2 to breathe, but there are times that I feel like I'm hyperventilating.

Thanks for the book and best wishes to you.

-- ray”

“Hello Coach GP,

Remember me ... I met you at the "Stick" booth at the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon Expo ... you gave me lots of great advice on running marathons back to back?

I want to thank you for taking the time to talk to me. Your advice was invaluable and no doubt helped me run a 3:34:20 yesterday! My goal was to beat 3:40 but, given that I had run Boston less than two weeks ago, I would have been thrilled with 3:45. Needless to say, I was ecstatic to have beaten my goal time by more than 5 minutes and to come in 9/202 in my age group.

More importantly, I felt great the last 5 miles (well, not great, but stronger than I have felt at that point during any other marathon I've run). Your advice to be conservative the first part of the race and to run 10-15 seconds per mile slower than my goal time was right on... it was hard to hold back at the beginning when I was feeling so good but it sure did pay off in the end. The worst problem I had yesterday was chafing under my arm ... and Vaseline at mile 18 took care of that!

I am very much looking forward to reading your book ... and hoping it will help me break 3:30! I showed it to my husband last night when I got home and he also thinks he will benefit from it.

Thanks again and sorry I missed you at the finish line. Don't think I've ever been so cold!

Amy Hammett (name misspelled as Amy Hannett in results database)
Knoxville, TN

 ”
(May 2004 Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon)

“HI coach, Doug Fuino here met you with my girlfriend
Janet this past weekend at the expo. center, long
branch. I was the 1st time marathoner at your 11 am
speech, also spoke as you signed your book.

Well, just have to say thanks, don't know if I could have done as
well with out your lecture. Run tall, arms up, and keep up the breathing (helped me the most), was in my head the entire race. I started off running with the 4:15 pacers and six miles into said "I'm doomed" yet continued and at mile 18 was still with them. Your words "... have the will to finish" pounded with me and at mile 20 began to run past the pacers, just kept running, was determined. Began picking of runners, one by one. Mile 24 comes up and I'm so close I couldn't believe it, checked the clock, and thought I could actually maybe break 4:10 (was thinking it at mile 19, but seemed unrealistic). Just began sprinting no letting up breathing was right and arms were up.

Last mile I'm trucking passing everyone in front, the WILL once again in my head, last half mile, bamm run past 5 others in front, turn to the finish look up 4:09:26, see the 4:10 pacer (whom I thought never would catch) sprint to the line, and was now determined to beat, finished at 4:09:46. I DID IT!!!!! What an awesome, beautiful, and just amazing experience. For a 1st time marathoner and only trained 8 weeks for this, was on such a high.

Without your speech and techniques, don't think I would have done nearly as well. The "will to finish" as you said will always be in my head. Thank you for doing what you do.. god bless ya

Doug Fuino, Longbranch, NJ

P.S. Started your book and am enjoying it very much, will use your techniques to meet next goal of sub 4:00 finish.....
 ”
(April 2004 New Jersey Marathon)

“Dear Coach GP,
Honestly, there is no way I could have had such a successful weekend without your coaching. The fact that you were able to guide me to a first place finish, 3 prs, and a Boston qualifier without ever meeting me is plain amazing.
Jason Elliott (Friday Jan 30, 2004) ”

“Dear Coach GP,

After attending the Hamilton Around the Bay 30K pasta dinner on Saturday even I felt energized and ready to run, a large part of my feelings came from your energetic talk and the wonderful running tips you gave to us.

I saw you Sunday morning just outside the Sheraton Hotel, it was a pleasure to meet you and shake your hand as this added to my enthusiasm of the day.

I asked you how I could get an autographed copy of your book and you suggested I email you at this web site. So here I am, could you please send me an autographed copy of your book when it comes out as I am eager to read it and learn more about running, techniques and form.

I must add, I did not do as well as I had hoped on Sunday due to some cramping and knee problems. However, I thought of your advice from beginning to end, I concentrated on my body, its form and my breathing through out. Even if it was one of my worst races, deep down I know it was one of my best, I have never spent so much time thinking about how I was running and how I was feeling both mentally and physically. I know your advice helped me a lot and truly kept my mind off my aches and pains throughout the race, Thank You.

GP I look forward to receiving you book and gaining more knowledge and insight related to running.
Thank You once again.

Sincerely,
Kelly
”

“Dear Coach GP,
I just wanted to thank you again for conducting such an informative running camp this past weekend at the Atlantic Club. Attending this camp was one of  the best things I have ever done for myself. Your energy and love of running  just radiated throughout the room the entire weekend!
THANK YOU!
Loni ”

 

“Hi, Coach GP!

Please forgive me the delay --- I have been on a high cloud since the marathon -- but I wanted to get in touch with you and thank you for your talk on Saturday afternoon before the race. I was the one eating nachos (the best carbo I could find at that moment) while you were talking. "Run tall, drive arms" was fresh in my head and I called on it over and over during the race....

When I got onto the track at Bressett Stadium, I saw the clock at the finish, and realized I had only 10 seconds left to make my goal, so I had to sprint the finish!!! What an exhilarating feeling! AND I made my goal --- barely! 3:59:56.4!!! I ended up running a negative split of 3 minutes, AND I am going to Boston. Oh, and I finished second in my age/gender group.

Again, thanks so much for your enthusiastic, encouraging, and effective talk! Yours,

Lynn ” (April 2002 re New Jersey Shore Marathon)  
 

“GP, I heard your talk Friday evening when I picked my running bag for the Lakeshore Marathon here in Chicago. At age 57 this was my first marathon and was looking for as much advice as possible. The one thing that stuck in my head was run tall and I must have repeated that to myself many times over the run. It really helped because I made it across the finish line in good shape. My time was 4hr 43 minutes.   Thanks again,

 Jerry ” (April 2002 re Lakeshore Marathon, Chicago)  

 

“GP, It's been great knowing you for the past 2 months here on the NJ shore! I've been running for 20 years at a pseudo-competitive pace, but never before had a coach. I went from being fairly out of shape in January to a personal record as far as fitness in March. I amazing--and a lot of fun! I'm doing training runs at distances from 1 mile to 5K on the track at PR levels. I can't wait for the racing season to begin! The stretching routines introduced by Kathy have done wonders for my chronic IT Band problem which seems to have gone away despite the more rigorous work-out regime. I'm in the Air Force and was recently deployed to the Middle-East, but am keeping up with the training well, on-line, in spite of the inhospitable environment. I'm certain that without your coaching my running  and fitness would have dropped off considerably more with this deployment. I can't say enough how great it is to have a coach like GP tailoring my work-outs. The expense is well worth doing it right, considering the time I already was dedicating to the sport. Best wishes to you and Kathy, Mike O'Connor ” (March 2002)  

“GP, I just have to tell you what a great Coach you are.  Today, seriously, I was getting ready to give up and just tell you forget my training right now. 

Then, I got your email about all my effort....even though it's not been perfect and I'm not getting to all the workouts, I haven't given up.  And I think it's because of you!  Now, if any time in my life, giving up would just be wrong.  This fight against cancer is huge and it's been absorbing my life.  I've spent endless hours on the phone, at the library, in the book store and talking to everyone around to find a therapy for my friend.  I've found some really interesting things and giving up now, would just be wrong. Thanks so much for all your support.  You have no idea what an influence you have on my fight to achieve my goals, regardless of what cards are in my hands at this time. thanks I'll keep you posted and get to as many workouts as possible.   Chandra” (Feb 2002)  
   

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