February 2014

     February brought the "Fight for Air Climb".  This event is for the American Lung Association and it involves climbing about 40 flights of stairs equaling approximately 900+ steps.  For this event there are two divisions.  One division is for anyone and everyone interested, this group climbs the stairs in normal clothes (some people wore shorts, some wore costumes, etc).  The other division is the Firefighter division, this group climbs in full gear ( Turnout coat and pants, SCBA pack, and Helmets).  Of course we are signed up for the latter division.  I approached this the same way I did Fenway, I trained a little but nothing huge.  I mean I've climbed a million stairs in my life how hard could it be.  The answer is very hard.  The extra weight really puts a toll on your legs, and the turnout gear keeps you really warm.  In the beginning I felt really strong.  I had a good pace going and the flights where flying by.  They had volunteers in the stair well at certain points cheering you on and to be there incase you needed to stop.   I think some of them were misinformed where they were standing as a few of them said halfway there at around the 12th and 15th flights.  Somewhere after 20 flights I started questioning my decision making process.  I tried to reason with whatever part of my brain that thought this was a good idea, but realized he was right although I am in pain now and feel miserable now it will go away.  The feeling of accomplishment and pride that will follow completing this task and the money raised and people helped will live forever.  I just had to keep pushing forward, there was no stopping.  I made a commitment and I wasn't going to give up.  I didn't have just myself to let down if I had quit.  I had a lot of people who donated showing their faith in me to finish this and I was going to.  In the end it took me 20 minutes and 22 seconds to complete this event, but it felt like hours.  I was close to the middle of the pack for firefighters times.  I am signed up to do this again.  I know I can do better but I need to get better training habits.   I'm not going to be satisfied with just beating my time from last year.  I want to break 15 minutes.  Here is a link if you are interested in donating it is a good cause or even navigate the site and sign up.  It is a great day of climbing and then the after party with music food and drinks.

     With this event behind me and February almost over the push to Amesbury continues.  August will be here before you know it.