May 30, 2023 by Darlene

Miles On The Mohawk 10 Mile Race Recap

May 28, 2023 8:30AM

With most of the local races either cancelled or virtual in 2020, Albany Running Exchange (ARE) began scheduling COVID Safety Plan approved races in 2021. This was one of them and unfortunately, it POURED the whole race.

In March of 2021, I ran their five mile race (Electric City) which ends in the same location as this race.

Last year, it SNOWED the entire Electric City Five Miler. And this March, I was injured and only volunteered for the 5 miler. The weather was awful too!!

Last May I ran this 10 miler on a very hot day. I did it with several friends and had fun.

The race is advertised as “a very fast, point-to-point course.”

As you can from the elevation chart below, it is not exactly what I would call fast (I see hills!!)

The logistics were also complicated. Either you parked at the start and got a ride back to your car after the race or you parked at the finish and got a ride to the start (or pay for the shuttle).

My preference was to park at the finish (even though that meant getting up earlier.)

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

I have run several 10 mile races. My slowest was in 2014: (1:49:55), my first one, and my PR was my third in the same year (1:38:45). All the others were somewhere in between as well as last year’s at 1:43:56.

Usually on the weekends this time of year, I run short races (which helps me work on my speed.)

This year, because of my foot injury, I choose to just run long slow runs and train for the Brooklyn Half Marathon.

With Brooklyn being the weekend before, I almost DNSed this race.

But I had already paid for it so I decided “What the heck?” And the next day was a holiday so I could relax at the lake.

I fully expected a PW and just wanted to enjoy another race but stay healthy so I could begin training for the NYC full marathon in July!!

I opted to not pick up my bib on Thursday or Friday. Neither location was convenient. I decided that I would just pick it up before the race on Sunday.

I met my running friends Saturday morning to walk and after have brunch.

Then I did some errands, gardening and carb loaded on Saturday evening. I debated about what to wear the next day. I was hoping that it would be cooler than last year.

done and sweaty!

Forecast:

#flatme:

similar outfit to last year

Race Day:

Race morning was my worst nightmare. My alarm never went off…. why? No power!!

I woke up at 6:10 am and was planning to leave at 6:15!! Yikes.

No power meant no coffee and no oatmeal breakfast. Luckily we have a generator but it doesn’t go on automatically.

Well, by the time my hubby got everything going, I ate breakfast and was ready to leave, I thought that I might miss the shuttle bus to the start. So I decided to drive straight to the start. Of course now I would after the race need a ride back to my car.

I did arrive with plenty of time to pick up my bib, walk around, visit with the animals and use the (real) restrooms. (Still it was a stressful morning to say the least.)

baby goats

restrooms

As you can see from the photos, there was not a cloud in the sky!! A beautiful day. And the conditions seemed perfect early that morning.. I was even a little chilly.

Though my running friends did not sign up for the race, I did connect with quite a few runners that I knew.

I had to take a picture because we were wearing the same skirt.

another Skirt Sports ambassador

I decided to leave my throwaway shirt and DIY arm warmers in my car….

The race started at 8:30 am. So soon it was time to head to the start area.

There were no corrals so I just entered into the crowd somewhere in middle or perhaps closer to the front. I chatted with friends until it was time to move.

Sorry to be a broken record but my goal for races these days is FINISH happy (that is not injured and ready to do another.) Throw those time goals out the window!! Especially for race with those predicted warm temps

Miles 1-3:

The race began near Mabee Farm Historical site. The first mile headed west, mostly on Route 5S. We ran along the road and fairly soon connected with the Erie Canal Bike Path.

In other words, the canal was on our right and most of the race was run on the path with water views. As I ran the first mile, everyone appeared to be passing me by. But I didn’t look at my watch, just kept going with the flow.

The scenery was pretty. Unfortunately there was little if any shade! Of course, my pace was decent at first. I was feeling good… until I wasn’t.

The Mohawk river changed to being on the left. And the temps started warming up quickly.

The first water stop was at mile 3.3 (Kiwanis Park) Dying at this point. I was used to from the last race, water at every mile! Because there were so few water stops, I ate my first GU at this one… a new flavor (raspberry lime?) UGH!! Nauseating!

Miles 4-6

Most of the race is a blur. I walked and ran. Those runners around me were doing the same. I tried to run more than walk. Not sure at times if I did or not. Some runners did continue to just run. But we played leap frog as I passed them when I ran and they passed me when I walked.

There was finally a second water stop at mile 5.6 (Lock 8 Park). More water but I wasn’t really hungry so I just ate half a GU.

Miles 7-10

The temps were rising. I wished I hadn’t worn my calf sleeves. The third water stop was around mile 8.1 (SCCC Bike Path Parking Area). I finished the other half of my GU and gave myself a shower of water.

Around mile 9, some annoying hills appeared. Maybe there weren’t big hills and I was just getting tired. I tried to run up them but it was more like a slog.

At this point, my lower back started to ache. Why? My form? My shoes? (Who knows?) My feet did not hurt much (and no blister) so there’s that!!

The crowd was also thinning. And I was walking more and running slower.

But eventually we headed toward Mohawk Harbor where you could hear the roar of the crowds.

As I headed toward the finish line, I got one last burst of energy.

I crossed at 1:43:XX . Happy to done and upright.

Post-Race Activities

I got my medal and some water.

I was excited to see that my running friends Sherry, Heidi and Stan showed up to cheer me on!!

Next, I grabbed my lunch (that I would give to my hubby when I got home.)

turkey sandwich, chips, fruit and a brownie

I stopped by the results table and surprisingly I did win an age group award. 2nd! You had a choice of shirts, and other stuff but instead I opted for a $10 coupon for a race registration.

I’m not a beer drinker but I would have loved something cold to drink. We got a ticket for a free one but this year, the restaurant didn’t open until noon!!

Instead, my running friends and I decided to go out to brunch.

very yummy!!

Remember my car was at the start… luckily one of my friends agreed to drive me back to pick it up.

Additional Race Reflections:

So yeah, I finished slower than I wished. But hey, it was much hotter than I had hoped. Actually I realized later that it was a little faster than this race last year!

It was also fun to see the many running friends (that I missed when I skipped so many races this spring.)

I never regret a race that I’ve run. I bet I run this one again next year.

Positives:

Ample parking at the start and finish.
Real restrooms at Mabee Farm
Bag check
Well marked course.
Varied scenery including river views
Lots of course marshals
Shuttle to the start (if needed).
Well organized.
A lot of pre-race information.
Familiar faces
Decent Post-race food.
Race shirt optional for more money
Cool medal.
Free Beer (in Druthers) after noon
Free photos
Immediate results (and live tracking)

Negatives:

HEAT
More water stops needed (for this weather)

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes.

It was super well-organized. Special attention was paid to EVERY detail. It will be even more fun when the weather is cooler.

Final Stats:

positive splits! AGAIN!!

Walking after mile 3 definitely slowed down my pace:

Next Up:

My favorite 5k

June 3, 2023

Happy Running! Have you run a race yet in the summer heat? ? If so, how did go? Are you planning to run a long race this summer? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

May 27, 2023 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 5.21.23-5.28.23: Another Race?

Sure. Why not?

Well, I waited until the last minute to register. I wanted to see how I felt after the Brooklyn Half Marathon.

I had already paid for the race (as part of my H2H registration.)

There seemed to be no serious lingering pain from the weekend before.

So a 10 mile race today!! No rain but warm temps instead…

Last Week —

Sunday – Lisa and I got up early and went for a LONG walk exploring Brooklyn. When we got back, we checked out of our hotel and took the subway to Penn Station where we checked our bags.

We then walked to a nearby restaurant for brunch (of course, today the weather was perfect for a race…)

it was longer than we planned because we got lost. lol (and at least my blistered foot felt so much better)

After lunch, we did dome strolling, hung out in a park until it was time to return to Penn Station to catch a train back home.

required race medal selfie (too wet to take it the day before)

Monday – Ugh! DOMS. My quads were crying as I walked down the stairs. Worse than when I ran a full marathon,

I still headed to the gym first thing.

like my shirt?

And then after work, I went to the FTC run…

I stayed with the slower beginner runners… they ran… I walked/ran

Afterward, I hit TJ’s.

Tuesday – Again I started out at the gym…

Today was supposed to be a rest day but since my legs felt a little better, I switched it until Wednesday.

So after work, I ran/walked slowly and then met two friends for a long walk on the rail trail.

the weather was lovely… but the legs were still tired

Wednesday – I had to work at an in-person training so no time for the gym.

Instead, after work, I joined a running friend to walk nearby. It started to rain so we decided to go to the YMCA to walk on the track. Track closed!! We had to walk up and down the halls to get our 3 miles done…

Thursday – Back to the gym. And after work, I met my two race buddies for a run at UAlbany.

after the run, we went out for dinner and drinks

Friday – Another rest day.. starting out at the gym and mah jongg in the evening.
Saturday – Normally a long run day with friends but instead, some of us walked while some ran and then we all had brunch.

Heidi & I twinned by accident

I came home to do some gardening and stress about the weather for the next day.

I think I’d rather it rain….

Sunday – Miles on the Mohawk 10 Mile Race.

ready to sweat…

Pre-race was rocky (power outage at my house) But I survived the HEAT!!!. (Pics on IG and recap to come…)

This Coming Week on the Run–

Monday – Memorial Day – DAY OFF – GYM, boating?
Tuesday – GYM, rest day, belated birthday dinner with BFF
Wednesday – run
Thursday – run, ARE trail walk
Friday – GYM, rest day, volunteer at packet pick-up
Saturday – Freihofer Run for Women 5k Race
Sunday – rest day, boating?

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Miles On The Mohawk Ten Mile Race Recap
Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races? Have you run any so far in 2023? How did you spend Memorial Day? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

I encourage you to do the same. Grab the graphic, drop your link on the host blogs and play along! Please be sure to always comment on the HOST’s blogs, as well as visit and comment on as many other blogs as you can.

May 26, 2023 by Darlene

FFF: Runfessions for May 2023

Runfessions

It’s that time again. Time to get things off my chest with Marcia’s Runfessions at Marcia’s Healthy Slice…

Very happy to be running consistently again. You can’t RUNfess if you don’t run, right?

But this month, I actually started racing so these will be RACEfessions instead.

1. I racefess…

I had decided to focus on recovery and training for my May half marathon.

But it sure was hard to pass up all those shorter races that I normally run each year…

Yes, I skipped 6 races.

2. I racefess…

I planned on running the Tropicool 5k when I was in Florida. I even paid for it.

It involved having a friend get up early to drive me to the start (after a late night out) and another to pick me up.

I just had zero mojo to do it this year.

So my $$ went to their charity and I ran in the ‘hood instead.

3. I racefess…

Each year, I’ve done this race, I’ve placed in the Grand Master Category.

My previous finish times have been: 29:07, 28:14, 27:28, 27:31.

No surprise that I checked the results for this year:

I guess everyone has gotten slower, including ME!!

4. I racefess…

I will have to force myself to the start line because I am so over DNSing races that I’ve paid for.

06-03-23 – Freihofer Run for Women 5k
06-17-23 – Valley Cats 5k
06-24-23 – Adirondack 7M Race to the Lakes
07-04-23 – Firecracker 4
07-15-23 – Silks n Satins 5k
08-13-23 – Run for the Roses 5k

I’m in a new age group so my finish time should be slower, right? I need to toss my ego out the door.

5. I racefess…

I said, of course, that I just wanted my foot to heal and be able to run again. And that my snail’s pace did not bother me.

That being said, I was elated to finish the Brooklyn Half Marathon fast enough to qualify for the 2024 NYC Marathon.

I finished Brooklyn HM in 2:21:41

My running friends didn’t get in the 2023 lottery but they plan to run the NYC Marathon in 2024. Now I’ll have the option to join them.

Happy Running! Anything to run or racefess this month? Please share.

It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

Join the link party!

May 23, 2023 by Darlene

RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon Race Recap

MAY 20, 2023

This was my 2nd time running this half marathon. I ran it in 2018 in the pouring rain… I definitely did not get to enjoy my post-race Coney Island experience.

So I signed up to run Brooklyn in 2023 for several reasons:

I love NYC (and Brooklyn).
I surprisingly got a guaranteed entry.
My two local running buddies were running it too.
~~We all ran a local half marathon a month before so we were sorta trained already.~~
NYRR races are so well-organized.
Who wouldn’t want to finish at the beach on Coney Island.
It was on a Saturday so I would not have to take the next day off from work.
I wanted to re-do this race after the wet one in 2018.
I had to DNS on all my 2023 half marathons so I was super excited to give this one a try!!

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. I ran my last half marathon on ~~April 15~~ November 20, 2022. I broke my foot and had to DNS my half marathons in February, March and April.

Since March 20, I have completed easy SHORT weekday runs and a few longish runs on most weekends.

the plan though I admit it got altered quite frequently

Though I don’t usually care much about my short runs, I usually like to get in a 10, 11 and 12 miler before each half marathon.

Thanks to support from my running friends, I used run/walk intervals and got those long runs done.

They were slow and they all felt very hard.

After the 12 miler, I went to Florida and skipped my long run in favor of a short easy run (in the heat/humidity.)

So I tapered with another SLOW (hard) 10 miler.

refueled with birthday cake!!

Obviously I was a little worried about my endurance. However, I didn’t expect to run the half marathon at a PR pace anyway. I was running it purely for the experience. I was very excited to be back out there racing.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

As I did for the NYC Half Marathon, I planned this race with my two local running friends Sherry and Stan.

thanks to my broken foot, they are now a “couple” – long story

Stan’s friend, Lisa, also decided to come along and support us even though she was not running the race.

We all took the train to Manhattan Friday morning. While on the train, I decided to use my app to check into our hotel. Well, the reservations had disappeared!! What? So I called the hotel, they gave me some bogus stories about me cancelling my reservations. Long story short, it appears that the hotel had closed and they didn’t notify anyone. Luckily we were able to find another hotel (although it cost a lot more and it wasn’t within walking distance of the race start).

Once we arrived in Manhattan, we took the subway to our new hotel, left our bags and started carb loading at a nearby restaurant.

After lunch, we took another subway to Pier 2 (near the Brooklyn Bridge) Pre-Race Party location to get our shirts and bibs.

not a fan of the design or color

I didn’t buy anything at the expo although I was tempted to buy another pair of Goodrs.

We took the prerequisite photos

and then headed back by subway to check into our hotel.

As you can tell by the photos, it was a beautiful day (perfect for a race… LOL).

After we checked into our hotel and unpacked, it was time to head out again (by subway) for dinner.

pizza, of course

There was a lot of stress due to the weather predictions for race day:

I laid out my outfit:

Of course, I needed to add a rain poncho, throwaway shirt, etc.

Fortunately, our friend Lisa agreed to meet us at the finish and carry everything we would need for after the race: umbrella, dry shirt, oofos, race jacket and more!! For all three of us.

Race Day:

Alarm set for 5 am. After much debate, we decided it was too far to walk, too complicated to take a subway and so I had ordered an Uber to leave for the race at 6:15 am.

Minimal sleep, if any.

I brought my usual race breakfast of oatmeal and coffee with me and ate in the hotel room.

At least it was not raining when we left the hotel.

We were all in Wave 2 and so we didn’t started until 7:45 am.

The Uber left us off near Grand Army Plaza. I think we were there by 6:30. Everything was very organized… the security line moved very quickly.

Of course, it started to drizzle (just like the forecast said.)

staying dry until the race started

There was an abundant number of porta potties and minimal lines.

We decided to all wait in Sherry’s corral (J).

I considered doing run/walk intervals with Sherry (since we did ALL our long runs like that) … but in the end, I decided to move up (to corral D) and do my own thing. Stan did the same (in corral G)

My plan for the race, as usual, was to stop and walk briefly at every water stop (so I wouldn’t get dehydrated) and to stop and walk longer to eat a GU at every 4 miles or so. And then basically walk whenever I needed to. Based on my training runs, that would be pretty often.

Lisa, Sherry, Stan and I planned to meet at the finish and then hang out. Of course weather permitting.

Anyway, here’s how the race went (photos courtesy of the NYRR/Cheer Everywhere/ FB websites):

Miles 1-3:

Eventually we started to move. I immediately ditched my poncho. And long walk it was to the start line (and I was only in D). Some runners actually ran but nope, I walked until I hit the start line. It was drizzling but with the humidity, it felt very comfortable. I was secretly hoping that this light rain would last until I was done with the race. It was warm enough that I threw away my long sleeve shirt right away.

NYRR photo

As you can see, it was quite congested in the beginning of the race. Did I mention that almost 26,000 started this race and half were in Wave 2? I may have started middle of the pack but moved into BOTP by the 2nd half of the race.

For the first 3 miles, you ran outside of Prospect Park and there were minor ups and downs in the elevation.

(Photo by NYRR)

Of course, I had amnesia thinking that the hills weren’t bad at all. (LOL I hadn’t hit the hills yet.)

(Photo for NYRR)

My plan to stop at every water stop slowed me down because in this race, they were at every mile (not every 2 miles as I was used to.) I stopped anyway even though I wasn’t thirsty. They were a tempting opportunity to walk and so that’s what I did.

NYRR photo

By the 5k point, I was getting hungry (since I had eaten breakfast at 5:30 am) and ate my first GU.

NYRR photo

I tried not to look at my Garmin at all because it would make me stressed… but every mile, my pace would pop up. I was shocked at my pace for the first few miles… I didn’t feel like I was running that fast. But based on my training, I knew that I would slow down but I decided to just continue at this pace until I couldn’t.

Miles 4-6:

NYRR photo

At mile 4, you headed into the park. It started off flat and just before Mile 5 comes the biggest hill on the course which is not as steep as some of those Central Park hills, but seems like it will never end. I continued my water stop walking and used the one at hilly 10k clock to eat my second GU. Thankfully as you loop around the park, you discover what goes up must come down and you get to enjoy a nice downhill. This was my favorite part of the race. At this point, I actually felt warm (due to the humidity).

NYRR photo

The downside was that it was raining more steadily, there were puddles and my feet were getting very wet. Wet sock + bunion = BIG painful blister.

I got one on my right foot and it hurt with every step. I tried to figure out how to step without the pain but there was NO WAY!

Then I passed this runner:

Yup, I told myself to “Suck it up.”

Miles 7-9:

Finally, the part of the race I was waiting or… No more hills!

from FB – recognize these celebrities??

As you come through Mile 7 just outside the park, you head to Ocean Parkway with a quick dip down and a steady bump in elevation on the entrance ramp.

I tried to think of this as my final stretch to the finish line. But it felt like Ocean Parkway would never end. Until this point in the race, I was really feeling strong. My injury layoff and it being my first half marathon in a long time really reared its ugly head at mile 9. My lower back starting aching. As a result, walks at the water stops were getting longer. To make things worse, it was raining even harder. Believe it or not, there were lively crowds all along the course…even in this weather. That helped a lot.

The volunteers at all the water stops were so supportive too.

Miles 10-12

Still running down that endless Ocean Parkway. At the 15k clock, I ate my third GU and walked what seemed like forever hoping to get some zip in my step. But now it was POURING!!! (Those Wave 1 runners lucked out.)

Finally as you ran South, the Avenues go in order from A to Z then you make a right hand turn onto Surf Avenue where you can see the roller coasters up ahead. But by mile 12, I barely had any energy. I just willed myself to continue. I knew the end was near.

Run…walk… run… walk….

Mile 13- 13.25

from FB

Soon I saw the sign that said “800 meters to go” and then I was finally on the boardwalk.

400 meters… then 200 meters.

NYRR photo

It was SO SLIPPERLY that I had to walk several times to make sure I didn’t fall.

The finish line seemed so far away but all of a sudden, the race was over. I crossed…. (LOL… I thought I sprinted but maybe not…)

chip time= 2:21:41

Post Race Activities:

NYRR photo

I pushed through the runners finishing to get my medal and then was handed a bag with boxed water, Gatorade and some snacks.

wet but happy

I followed the crowd to exit and walked and walked to eventually get into the park/stadium.

NYRR photo

Our original plan was to hang around, go to the After Party (where you got beer, pizza, Nathan’s famous hot dogs, etc.) and even walk along the boardwalk (dip our feet into the ocean, etc.)

Not into this weather, our friend Lisa has texted us that she would be on the bleachers where families were directed to wait (and in section R).

The sections started with A and so I limped to R and finally found her. I was soaked and FREEZING and glad to put on my rain jacket.

in hindsight I wish I had changed into a dry shirt… brrrrr

Stan had finished just after me followed by Sherry. We walked toward the exit to find them.

They both exceeded their time expectations and were cold, wet but happy, as well.

We quickly headed to the subway where we shivered for 16 stops before arriving at our hotel.

I took the longest HOT shower ever, changed into dry clothes and bandaged up my blood blister. We were all starved and I hoped that Lisa had found a nearby restaurant for lunch.

Luckily the food was delicious because we walked several miles in a monsoon there and back.

Then we had to shop for Stan’s birthday celebration (more walking in the rain.)

Will this day ever end?

Nope, we hopped the subway and headed to Manhattan for an recovery/celebration Italian dinner…

It was sooo delicious (sorry no pix).

Finally back to Brooklyn for dessert and champagne.

My bed that night never felt so good.

Additional Race Reflections:

Though there were timing clocks at every mile during the race, they started when the elites of wave 1 started so I really wasn’t sure how I was doing. I kept thinking that I was about an hour less than the displayed time.

So I was really pleased at my time. I thought I would finish much slower. I knew I would not come close to my 2018 time of 2:11:23 but secretly, I wanted to finish faster than 2:27. That was the qualifying time for my new age group for the NYC Half, Brooklyn Half and NYC Full Marathon in 2024. (I may not run them all but it’s nice to have that option.)

Well, this was a bucket list race for me. Since I couldn’t train hard, I was expecting to completely enjoy my experience, take lots of photos, hang out at the beach, etc.

All of this impossible in such miserable weather conditions.

But no, I don’t regret running the race. I actually liked the course more than I thought I would. The hills weren’t as bad as Central Park. More than 25,000 excited runners. So much energy. NYRR puts on a first class event.

And running a race with friends made the experience even better.

The Good:

Easy organized packet pick-up.
Lots of information from sign up to race day
The excitement and energy
Prospect Park part of the course
Ending on the board walk of Coney Island
Hot Dogs and Beer at the Post-Race Party (even though I didn’t have any)
Water & Gatorade Stops at every mile (many tables of cups and many enthusiastic volunteers)
Crowd Support (even in the rain)
Having friends to train with and spend the race weekend

The Bad:

Running down Ocean Ave for so long was a little boring
Pre-Race Party was disappointing – very few vendors
Prospect Park Hills (since I didn’t train on hills)
Slippery Boardwalk at the finish
DOMS two days after.

The Ugly:

The Weather!!
That blister!

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Definitely.

And my finish time will give me a guaranteed-entry into this race for 2024.

Though I wish that I could wait to see the weather forecast before I sign up again.

Final Stats:

It was not my slowest half marathon. And as I mentioned above, it was faster than I expected (based on my long run pace).

I’m pretty sure than if I didn’t take 5 weeks off from running due to a broken foot and have to skip THREE half marathons, I would have run this race more confidently and had a better finish time.

But it is what it is and I am truly grateful to to able to race again.

I retain my title as “queen of the positive splits”

well, at least no 12 minute miles

I didn’t use run/walk intervals but I did stop and walk at EVERY water stop and the 2nd half of the race, I walked several times between water stops.

Next Up:

10 MILER – May 28, 2023

Happy Running! Have you ever run this race or any NYRR races? Do you prefer large races or small ones? Do you enjoy running in the rain? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

May 21, 2023 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down: 5.14.23-5.20.23: Race Week!

Finally, a race in 2023!!

It was emotional due my injury that resulted in 3 missed half marathons (as well as a 10k and 5k)..

But I felt sorta ready for this race and I ran it in Brooklyn with two of my running friends, Stan and Sherry.

The race was held on Stan’s birthday so we had a double celebration.

I made him a a photo card and we also got him a cake and champagne…

Last Week —

Sunday – I was surprised how Saturday’s long run tired me out… but I was determined to make myself active.

So I got up early and went to the gym.

Then I went for a nice long hike..

not much elevation but beautiful scenery… just what the body needed.

Afterward my hubby and I went to my MIL’s for lunch

and then I came home to tackle the garden…

Monday – I only had to work in the morning…

First thing, I went to the gym and after lunch, I got my nails done and then drove to Washington Park to catch a one last glimpse of the tulips.

Unfortunately, most of the tulips were very past bloom (even though Tulip Fest was only the day before) but still a few left to view…

And then back to weeding the garden…

In the evening, I was supposed to run with FTC, the group of beginner runners whom I help mentor. But car issues forced me to cancel a walk with a friend and this group run (and a visit to TJ’s). 😦

Instead I ran in my ‘hood. (Sorry no pix).

Tuesday – I had a terrible night’s sleep so I skipped my visit to the gym and after a long work day, I felt tired but dragged myself out for a run and then I met two friends for a long walk on the rail trail.

a warm muggy evening…

Wednesday – Since I skipped the gym the previous morning, I made sure to go (and I would not be going Fri-Sun).

At lunch, I got my last run in before the race.

breezy and chilly!!

And then after work, I participated in an historical walk.

It was really interesting to learn about the buildings that date back to the 1800’s.

Thursday – Rest Day (I like to take 2 days before a big race).

I was able to squeeze in a trip to gym before dropping my car off at the dealer.

Instead of a run, I met my running friends for a walk at UAlbany and then dinner.

I spent the evening packing for all weather conditions.

looks just like 2018 😦

Friday – Stan, Sherry, Lisa (Stan’s friend) and I took the train to NYC, hopped the subway to our Brooklyn hotel (had to choose a new one since our original one had closed 9withoutnotice), had lunch and then went to Pier 2 to pick up our race packet.

We strolled around trying not to put too many miles on the legs, returned to our hotel to check-in and finally and carb loaded with pizza for dinner. (more pics on IG)

Saturday – RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon!!

It drizzled, rained, poured!!

I finished!! More details in a future post (pics on IG).

We spent the rest of the day recovering, getting wetter, refueling and celebrating Stan’s birthday!

This Coming Week on the Run–

Sunday – More recovering and celebrating in NYC, train home
Monday – GYM, FTC run
Tuesday – GYM, rest day
Wednesday – run
Thursday – run
Friday – GYM, rest day
Saturday – rest day, walk
Sunday – Miles on the Mohawk 10 Mile Race???

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon Race Recap
Friday – Runfessions

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races? Have you run any so far in 2023? Did you do anything exciting on Mother’s Day? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

May 19, 2023 by Darlene

FFF: Tips for Summer Running

Summer is coming soon. There have even been days already that felt like summer.

Here are some of MY personal tips to enjoy running:

1. Stop complaining and posting about the temps and humidity.

Ok, I do it too. (But I will try not to…)

If the heat bothers you:

Don’t run.
Run earlier or later in the day.
Run indoors.
Run slower.
Run fewer miles.

victory for running in only a tank and skirt

2.Wear Compression Calf Sleeves.

I know it sounds crazy but it is so buggy in the summer. Besides protecting your legs from injury, it will help ward off ticks and mosquitoes. With spring rain, the bugs can be insane.

the ice cream helped as well as the socks lol

3. Wear a Baseball Cap.

It keeps you cool (if you have thick hair like me). It shields your face from the sun and most importantly, it protects your scalp from the sun. Most runners neglect to put sunscreen on their head and a visor will do zero for you there.

Image result for cap run hair don't care

4. Plan your Hydration.

That doesn’t mean that you have to carry water. I don’t usually.

I mean, how much can you really carry during a hot weather run, anyway? An everyday runner does not have to purchase a hydration vest.

an old pic (I lost that water bottle 😦 )

But you need to drink even if you think that you are not a heavy sweater.

I usually plant water somewhere on my route or loop my runs so I pass my car (where I have water). I have even stopped a local convenience store during my run and bought a bottle of water.

Or you can buy a skirt or shorts that can hold a small water bottle or two.

5. Sign up for Races.

You knew this one was coming.

The adrenaline of the race will make you forget about the heat. There will be water stops along the course and maybe even watermelon or ice cream at the end of the race.

Ok not as comfortable as sitting in your air-conditioned home or floating around a pool but better for you and much more fun.

at one of my favorite summer 5ks

Happy Running! Any other tips for enjoying the summer run? Please share.

It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

Join the link party!

May 16, 2023 by Darlene

A Successful Return to Racing

My last race was a 15k at the beginning of December. My last Half Marathon was at the end of November.

To many of you that doesn’t seem like a long layoff.

I used to run over 30 races a year and one half marathon almost every month…

So yes, I feel VERY RUSTY (and nervous.)

Here’s my advice and I hope to have followed it…

Adjust Your Mindset

For me and many other runners, it’s not that I am not physically ready. It’s my mind that is not ready.

If I go into the race with a negative mindset, I am setting myself up for failure before I even start the race.

By a negative mindset, I mean that I think I will be slower than I hope or that the race will feel harder that I’d like.

So I need focus on the positives:

- I get to race.
- I am prepared for whatever the race throws at me.
- Racing is a gift.
- Racing is an experience to enjoy.
- A bad race is only a single day in my fitness journey.
- I can learn and grow from any sub-optimal performance.

Set Non-Finish Time Goals

Obviously, it depends on how long your layoff was and if it was related to illness, injury and other challenges in your life.

No matter what the reason for your time off from racing, your finish time will most likely be slower than your times before the layoff.

And the last thing you want is to be let down in your first race back.

Plus, focusing too much on a finish time could actually hinder your race performance.

Non-finish time goals could be:

- Not starting too fast and running negative splits.
- Thanking volunteers and waving at spectators.
- Experiencing zero DOMS the next day.
- Crossing the finish line with a smile.
- Running with a friend so they can run their best race.
- Sticking with run/walk intervals the whole race.
- No walk breaks.
- Successful use with a new fuel plan or new shoes/clothes.

Embrace the Experience

No matter the reason for your time off, the first race back should be a joyful occasion.

Before the race, think about what you missed most from racing:

- the spectators,
- the start line excitement,
- seeing new scenery,
- crossing the finish line.
- the bling,
- meeting other runners,
- sharing the experience on social media,
- post-race refreshments,
- the challenge

Focus on these things during the race when things get hard, especially those final miles..

Go into your first race after a layoff with an open mind and eager heart.

And don’t forget – Racing is a Gift!

Happy Running! Have you ever experienced a layoff from racing? Any advice to share regarding your return to racing? Please share.

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m joining the link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner)

I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

May 13, 2023 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 5.4.23-5.14.23: Back to Reality and in a New Age Group!!

After 8 7 days of fun and sun, I’m back.

And I’m a year older. LOL

Last Week & Before:

Thursday – The 5:45am flight got cancelled and after multiple delays we didn’t arrive until 10:30 pm. So Day 1 was a bust.
Friday – I started the day with a run, of course

and then I joined my friends (who were taking lessons while I was running) to play tennis. Thankfully, it was like riding a bike. And I had a lot of fun.

Afterward we grabbed our lunch and headed to the beach.

unfortunately the hurricane destroyed many of the beaches and our favorite was being repaired as we sat and enjoyed the sun and the water

And in the evening we had a lovely dinner out.

Saturday – This morning was very similar – a morning run

due to the heat, humidity and pretty scenery, my runs each morning were filled with walk breaks…

and then tennis

except that we hung out at the pool instead of going to the beach.

And then we drove to Fort Myers to go to a dinner theatre. We had a great time but it was a very late night.

Sunday – Before I went to bed the night before (around midnight) I told my friend that I didn’t need a ride to the 5k race I had signed up for. I knew she would be tired and I just wasn’t feeling a race.

Of course I got up early and had plenty of FOMO but just went out for a run and as previous mornings, I joined my friends to play tennis afterward.

We had planned an afternoon at the beach but couldn’t find parking so we went back to the pool.

For dinner, instead of going out, we ordered in pizza and had our book club discussion.

Monday – Another morning run

as you can tell from the pix, there wasn’t a cloud in the sky the whole vacation...

…followed by tennis and the same (noisy) beach as Friday.

In the evening, we had a delicious Italian dinner with the lady who rents to us and ice cream (next door) for dessert.

Tuesday – MY BIRTHDAY!

Of course a morning run first as I entered a new decade…

no runfie today… just beautiful flowers…

And then after some group photos, we went into town to watch our tennis instructor compete in a tournament (middle pix below)

Instead of the beach or pool today, we decided to take a trolley tour of the city. We had done it years ago. We learned so much about the city and the cool breeze was wonderful.

In the evening, I got treated to a lovely dinner.

Wednesday – Our last full day.

So I followed my same Naples vacation routine. Run. Tennis. Beach. Dinner.

views from my run…

Some ladies played pickle ball, others went to the pool or shopping.

I convinced my friend Lorraine to spend the afternoon with me at the beach…

a different beach and it was PERFECT!!

After dinner, the lady who rented to us brought over champagne for a farewell/birthday toast

Thursday – My last morning run (sigh) and then we packed up and headed to the airport hoping for less drama then the week before.

Happy to report that we had no flight delays.

Friday – Back to work…

Nothing exciting except for laundry but I did sneak out at lunch to go to the GYM.

Saturday – Long Run Day! Taper Time!

I ran 2 solo miles and then my friends joined me to run 8 more.

At brunch, they surprised me with a cake!!!

and the cake tasted as good as it look (all homemade)

I was pooped after that run but later did some gardening and grocery shopping.

Sunday – I plan to go to the gym, do more gardening and stop by to visit my MIL.

This Coming Week on the Run–

Monday – GYM, FTC run
Tuesday – rest day
Wednesday – run
Thursday – run
Friday – train to NYC, packet pick-up, carb load
Saturday – BROOKLYN HALF MARATHON
Sunday – rest day, train home

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Successful Return to Racing
Friday – Tips for Summer Running

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races? Any vacation plans? Anyone celebrating big birthday this year? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

May 12, 2023 by Darlene

FFF: Favorite Running Tunes

I runfess, it’s been awhile since I’ve run with music. I often listen to podcasts when I run alone and usually I do my long runs with friends.

But I do have my “old” favorites still on my phone:

Fight Song – Rachel Platten

One Step at a Time – Jordan Sparks

Stronger – Brittney Spears

Don’t Stop Believin‘ – Journey

I Run for Life – Melissa Etheridge

Edge of Glory – Lady Gaga

Stronger – Kelly Clarkson

Yes, there’s a theme here…

Happy Running? Do you run or work out to music? If so, what are your favorite songs? Please share.

It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

May 9, 2023 by Darlene

What Happened From Ages 65-70?

I borrowed this idea from Judy and Donna when they turned 60 and 50, respectively.

I have already posted about ages 60-64. (You can read it here.)

Now I’ll talk about the last 5 years of this decade:

Age 65 (May 2018)

In May, I ran one of my bucket list races – Brooklyn Half Marathon. It rained but it was important because my finish time from this race qualified me for another bucket list race – NYC Half Marathon (and also NYC Marathon but I didn’t realize it at the time).

hoping the rain would stop… it never did!

In June, one of my favorite races got replaced (after 40 years) with a new 15k.

lake finish, ice cream, age group award!!

In September, we took our 2nd Sole Sisters race-cation.

I did the 5k and the half.

I also ran a 5k PR at a race on Governor’s Island.

hanging with Cari post race

In October, I finally ran a race in Paris (my favorite city in the world!!)

a dream come true!

I also ran a 10k in Central Park, NYC.

I had no idea that I would actually get into this race…

In November, I ran the hilliest half ever with Alyssa.

In February, I ran a rainy half marathon in Florida and injured my calf afterward.

In March, I ran the NYC Half Marathon (and hooray, I was pain-free).

In April, I ran the first annual local (downhill) half marathon. And my finish time qualified me to run the 2020 NYC half and full marathons. (Neither one happened due to COVID).

Also in April, the Sole Sisters took over NYC. And we ran a fun 15k in Brooklyn.

Age 66 (May 2019)

In May, I ran a fun new half marathon near an upstate lake.

won my first (and only) trophy

In July, I started training for the NYC Marathon. Lots of miles mixed in with lots of work travel.

In September, I visited a college friend in RI and completed a (training) half marathon while there.

so fun meeting Michelle and Kim G. at the race

In October, I ran a local half marathon as part of my 20 mile training run.

Did it!! Now taper!

In November, I completed my FIRST (and only) MARATHON – NYCM. It was an amazing experience. And I’m so happy that I took the plunge.

celebrating after with blogger Lacey.

In January I ran a frigid (and painful) half marathon in Central Park. I also met up with Cari and Deborah the day before the race.

I may have been smiling but my foot HURT!!

In February, I ran my first ZOOMA race. It was so fun and what made it even more special was that racing ended for a long time after that race (due to COVID).

Bloggers can jump!

March-April – Race after race was cancelled. Some races were completed virtually.

NYC Virtual Half Marathon

Age 67 (May 2020)

May- September- Races still cancelled.
In October, my running friends and I had already rented a house in NH and even though our half marathon was cancelled, we decided to go anyway and run it virtually.

matchy matchy in our post race shirts

Finally, in November, with many Covid restrictions, a local half marathon was held.

so happy to race again!!

I missed NYC so much that I decided to go there for the weekend in December and run a 5k.

My first plane trip in a year was in February to visit friends in Florida and run a half marathon.

with all the precautions and a heat wave, I still enjoyed it

Age 68 – May 2021

In July, I ran a fun July 4th race for the first time and it was a 4 mile PR!

In August, there was a surprise meet-up with runners whom I ran a half with in Philly back in 2014.

In October, my running friends and I decided on a re-do race-cation in NH.

wearing matching shirts has become a tradition and as is a jumping pic

In December, I ran the Albany Last Run for the last time. They discontinued this 5k around the holiday lights in the park. 😦

January – April. Obviously trying to make up for lost COVID racing time.

Three NYC races!! A Florida race and a Local Half (and too many others to mention.)

Fred Lebow Half (NYC)

post-race meet up with blogger, Jenny (in Fla.)

Central Park Half (NYC)

H2H Half

In early May, I ran a 5k in a costume!

Age 69 – May 2022

In June, I participated in my favorite local 5k for the 15th time.

Slowing down didn’t prevent me from participating in several 5k races. I even won an age group award in each (which is easier when you are my age!!)

In September, October, and November I ran a half marathon.

In October, the half marathon was part of another fun race-cation with my running friends. This time in Maine.

You know I couldn’t resist a trip to NYC so I ran a RAINY 15k there in December and ran with Cari in Central Park in January.

There was also a winter escape to Florida in February where I was supposed to run my first of FOUR scheduled half marathons.

Instead, I fell and broke my foot.

Running and racing came to an abrupt halt.

Not the best way to end this decade…

Age 70 – May 9, 2023

Who knows?

Hopefully a lot of races and runs and race-cations (and age group awards!!) … and most importantly good health and good friends!!

And NO MORE INJURIES!!

**Just re-read my post about Ages 60-64 and realized that I started and ended the decade with a broken 5th metatarsal of my left foot!!!! What are the odds?

Happy Running! Do you have a milestone birthday coming up? If so, what has been the “running” highlight of the last decade? Please share.

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m joining the link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner)

I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.