As veteran runners our training methods tend to vary amongst us, but, our general goal is the same. We continue to build the strong endurance base that we have developed over the years. Some team members ski or bicycle, as well as strength train by weight lifting. Three of our team have included in their training a 100 mile trail race in North Carolina & Virginia in February and May; while another two have committed to run a marathon a month beginning with the BAA Boston Marathon in April 2003 to the start of TREK USA in May, 2004. 

As we approach the start date, the team is beginning to up the daily training mileage.  Preparing to run 15+ miles per day means that we will often be running 2-3 times each day.  Therefore, training must reflect the challenge.  Our training regime now includes many "doubles" and soon we will begin incorporating "triples".  Though high mileage weeks is something all the team members have done in the past, we're all a little more "seasoned" now, so caution is the key ingredient!

Relay director, Ron Kramer, has completed the full course description, and we know the length of each day's run. (See http://www.dmsesports.com/trekusa/course.aspx) We also must take into account that on any given day a team member may be injured, and that we will probably loose the services of our founder, Dave McGillivray, for three days when the "baby call" comes.  It is conceivable that we could be running 17-20 miles per day. 

Though we don't have many opportunities to train as a full team, we have begun to notice the effects of our individual training.  No longer does a 15 mile training run seem very far; no longer do two runs in one day seem overwhelming; no longer do 70 to 80 mile training weeks define training schedules we "used to do when we were young".  Pounds are being shed, jeans are fitting loosely, and we are beginning to realize that we will, in fact, be physically prepared to meet the challenge.

Each team member has recognized how critical our training is to the success of TREK USA.  We will be relying on each other, and that responsibility is not being taken lightly.  More importantly, we know we have a responsibility to our Charities, our Sponsors, and especially to the many of YOU who have so generously donated to our foundation.  We take our jobs seriously, and we promise to represent you well!

Follow along as team members Paul McGovern and Tom Licciardello run a marathon a month in preparation for the run across America.  It's March, and that means their goal is within sight. Read more in Tom Licciardello's journal.