Trained and ready for the big event

Grant Dunning marathon training columnEDITOR’S NOTE: This is the latest entry in Grant Dunning’s training diary as he pepares to run his first marathon -- the Orange County Marathon on Sunday in Newport Beach.

Less than one week until the big day -- the 2006 Orange County Marathon. Over the past two weeks, the training has become easier as the schedule tapers.

The week before Christmas, our program peaked with a 20-mile run. I am proud to say that after the 20-mile adventure, my body was still intact. No damaged knees, no shin splints and no stress fractures.

Considering I still have more weight pounding my joints than the majority of other runners competing, I feel fortunate. So far, so good.

To date, I have logged more than 430 miles since August. That is more than I have run in the last 20 years.

Although I have completed the training necessary for me to finish the marathon, I have not been doing any substantial training pushing my daughter, Paige, in her stroller.

The longest run on which I have pushed Paige is only four miles. This will prove to be the wild card Sunday.

I figured if I attempted to do a long training run with Paige, I would realize how hard it is and get discouraged. Instead, I will show up on race day without any preconceived ideas and make it happen.

Since the 20-miler prior to Christmas, the runs have tapered to 12 miles and six miles, respectively. Surprisingly, I am enjoying this whole process. Believe it or not, I have actually started researching the internet for other marathon races and I haven’t even completed the first one yet.

On race day, I have a large group of family and friends who will be competing in one of the many races.

My oldest daughter, Brooke, along with many of her friends, will be competing in the Coach’s Kids Marathon Race.

I have approximately 10 friends committed to running the full Marathon along with a large group competing in both the Half Marathon and 5K in support of my efforts.

In addition to the participants, we have created a Team Dunning Water Station on the course that will have a large group of family and friends volunteering to help all racers and cheering all of us on.

I am fortunate to have both friends and family flying in from other parts of the country to support my efforts.

After the race, I am looking forward to spending time with family and friends at our post-race Jacuzzi party at my home. Time to soak those sore bones and share stories.

To date, I am grateful to have raised more than $10,000 for United Cerebral Palsy of Orange County. I have committed to completing this Marathon pushing Paige to raise both awareness and money for this great organization. In addition to UCP of Orange County, there are 10 other great children charities that will benefit from the proceeds of the Orange County Marathon. If you want to make a difference in our community, I encourage you to support this special event. Wish us luck!