Turkey Trot Sign-up

Wed Oct 28, 2026

It has been almost two years since I ran at all. A couple years ago, prior to my right knee falling apart (degenerative arthritis requiring a partial knee replacement in August 2025), I spent a summer running 5Ks with Ivan. Running had been a part of my life for many years. In fact, I have successfully run three marathons, several half-marathons, and multiple shorter races over the course of 35 years. My Marathon PR stands at 4 hr 15 minutes at the 1997 Chicago Marathon.

The reality is that I’m still overweight and running puts a great deal of strain on the joints and body in general. With my new knee, I might be able to get into shape quickly. Signing up for this year’s Festival Turkey Trot in Oshkosh is a way to motivate me. I will begin (tomorrow) working out on the treadmill with 1 minute intervals. The 2 mile fun run is not going to be difficult to get ready for – except I am starting from ground zero. My cardio tolerance is dismal.

I sent a text to Ted Tate, my friend and a Physical Therapist that used to do ‘Runner Readiness Screenings’ out of a health club in Appleton. He is always a good resource.

Ivan may join me. I will sign him up regardless after he gives me his shirt size. I may have a couple more sign up from the office.

Otherwise, I’m still very energetic and doing good with my conversion to keto. The hunger will subside soon. God willing.

I remember in the past when I would take long runs on the trail on the outskirts of Waukesha. It might have been the Glacial Drumlin Trail. After a certain number of miles, I would run by a sculpture of Jesus and ask his help to make it through. Running excessive miles and not knowing if I could finish forced me to ask God for help.

This is the case here. I’m humbly kneeling before God, asking for his assistance, and that of the Saints.