Why AJ matters

Great workout for the women's and men's xc and track teams at a windswept Vassar College track on Friday afternoon. (Side note to Vassar coach James Macowan: THANK YOU for letting us use your fine facility!)

The men's xc guys did a continuous interval workout that totalled 8,000 meters. Despite the wind, there was great effort and camaraderie out there. Doing a continuous jog recovery was a new twist and a variation of a workout that was brought to me by several veteran team members. I adapted it to the conditions and the needs of the entire team, and I think it worked out OK.

The women's xc ladies did mile repeats (some did 1ks) and some really fast 200s to finish up. When Chuck and the women were blasting through the 200s, the strong wind seemed to ratchet up about 10 mph more! Undaunted, they all ran great.

What made this workout memorable for me was the impromptu support crew:

--My pal Krys Wasielewski took a few minutes from his busy schedule to provide much-needed coffee, and then he rushing was off to his own XC practice at Dutchess Day School.

--Coach Emeritus Phil Kelly stopped by from the neighborhood and hung out for the balance of the workout, even helping to time one of the many guys' groups.

--Marist Alumni Marathon Record Holder Mike Rolek popped in and provided support and encouragement. Rolek will be a regular guest at practices over the coming weeks and months, and his presence is welcome any day of the week.

--And then there's AJ. Freshman Andrew James is nursing a bad Achilles. His season is done. His specialty is middle distance track events, so trying to blast through his Achilles injury for a few more weeks makes no sense at this point. Damn shame, as he was rounding into good xc shape.

Here's the thing: A few days ago, AJ asked if he could come to the workout on Friday. He wanted to help in any way possible. And he did! That kind of Team Spirit is priceless. Thanks, BRO.

Above is a picture of AJ goofing on his old and freezing coach. Nicely done.

And to the runners who completed the workout, a hearty, two-thumbs-up nicely done to you all!