June 1, 2018 by Darlene

Al Goldstein Summer Speed Series 5K #1 Recap

Image result for al goldstein summer speed series

Al Goldstein Summer Speed Series #1 – May 23, 2018 – 7:10 pm

If you follow my blog, you know that I often get sent to NYC for work.

Usually, I just try to squeeze in a run on the East River, Hudson River or in Central Park.

Well last year, I found a race!!!!

Apparently during the summer months on alternating Wednesdays at 7:10 pm, there is a cheap ($7.50 – in past years it was $5) 5k in Prospect Park, Brooklyn. These races are organized by the Prospect Park Track Club. I ran one last July and had a great time.

I was excited that they were scheduled again this summer and the first two races coincided with my the dates that I would be working in NYC.

Here’s the info from the NYCRuns website:

We’re gearing up for another great summer of evening 5K races! You don’t have to be fast to enter, but these races will help you find out how fast you can be!
Big news for 2018: we have chip timing! All runners will receive their actual race time.
Races will start and end at the Bluestone Cafe at Lakeside Center.
There, we will offer:

Bib pickup starting at 6pm

Bag check

Lockers available for a fee

Bathrooms (real ones!)

Water after the race

5 year Age group awards ceremony after the race

There are also water stops during the race, mile markers, lots of volunteers, results immediately emailed to you and free photos,

So it seemed like a no brainer to run some of these races if I could.

Except for the fact that I had to work all day in Queens (getting up at 5:30 am and being on my feet until 4 pm). I would have to rush to take the subway, then the LIRR, walk to my hotel and change my clothes and then take a LONG subway ride to Brooklyn.

However, a bigger problem was that my foot (specifically the arch) had been sore since my vacation in Florida (Maybe playing tennis 7 days in a row wearing old sneakers??) I could run on it but it was painful afterward. It hurt after my half marathon and after my run on Monday (two days before this race). I wondered if I had PF? I contemplated taking time off from running. A normal person probably would have. But running keeps me sane and I NEED to run.

So I decided to go for it hoping that this decision wouldn’t backfire and I would damage my foot and put myself out of commission.

As I mentioned above, I rushed back to the hotel from work and hopped the subway to Brooklyn. Thanks to Google, I figured out which one to take and which stop to get off at.

However, when I exited the subway station, as I did last year, I did not exit at the exit for park entrance closest to the race start. Luckily there were signs and I followed them to LeFrak Center at Lakeside (where the bib pick up was). II had a scenic walk through the park. I passed the race start and end.

As I got closer, there were many signs pointing you in the right direction.

I was pretty early and it wasn’t crowded at all.

It was strange to be at a race where I didn’t know a soul. But there were real restrooms, water and tables in the shade so I just hung out.

Eventually runners started arriving. There were probably close to 500 hundred.

Soon it was time for everyone to walk down to the start.

Before the race began, there was a memorial service for one of the track club members who had died..

Then we all lined up. No corrals or pace signs. Just everyone all together. It didn’t matter because believe it or not, this small local race was chip-timed.

Below is the course map. I didn’t really remember the course from lat year but I did just run the Brooklyn Half Marathon several days before. So I knew about the big LONG hill.

As I mentioned, there are usually 400-600 runners signed up of all ages. The runners all seemed to look like the stereotyped “serious runner”. You know what I mean. (Last year, I noticed that 25 of them finished with less than average 6 min pace per mile!!)

It was also very warm – in the 80s and humid. That and my maybe injured foot, led to me to want to run a very cautious race.

I started running the first mile and I just couldn’t get going. I had to walk a 1/2 mile in and then again at the water stop. It didn’t help that the big hill was in mile 1.

Mile 2 was better but there were no water stops. You had to stop at a water fountain in the park. I did not and by mile 3, I was crashing.

smiling for the camera, of course

I forgot about my foot and the competitive me was determined to pick up the pace.

I barely had enough energy to sprint and finished at 28:XX.

the last ones to cross the finish line

I was a little dizzy so I had some water and just sat in the shade for a while to catch my breath.

Once I felt better, I started walking back to LeFrak Center.

I checked the results and was surprised that I was FIRST in my age group. This is my first award in my NEW age group. (I would not have won in my previous age group.)

I didn’t have to wait long before they started the awards ceremony. The finish times were amazing!!

As I was leaving, I asked a runner for the way to the closest subway. He said that he’s walk me since he was headed to Manhattan as well. (A much shorter walk if you entered at the right entrance.)

We chatted about racing, of course. Turns out that he went to UAlbany and works for the same company that I train for in Queens. Small world.

It was late by the time I got back to my hotel.

dinner (shake at Shake Shack) – don’t judge

I did enjoy my second Brooklyn 5k!! I plan to do it again on June 6 (weather permitting.)

Race Splits
mile 1- 9:34
mile 2 – 8:54
mile 3 – 8:58
.14 – 7:58

as soon as you finished the race, you got an email with your results.

So I haven’t seriously raced a 5k and finished over 28 minutes in a long time…maybe 2016. But I was elated that my foot didn’t hurt…at all. This sounds crazy but the race seemed to heal whatever was wrong. Phew!!!

yes, faster last year. we’ll see how I do next time.

Since it’s Friday, I’m linking up with Running on Happy & Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

My topic for this Friday is: Why Run an Impromptu Race is a New City

It gets you moving (running.)
You don’t have to figure out a safe running route.
You run in a new place.
You meet new people.
It gets you out of your comfort zone.

Of course, I was tempted to relax in my hotel room, enjoy a nice meal in a restaurant, visit a museum or even take in a show.

But I am glad that I took on this adventure. (Nothing ventured, nothing gained, right?)

Happy Running! Ever run a race solo in an unfamiliar place?

May 29, 2018 by Darlene

May Report Card

Image result for bye bye may

May was a great month for many reasons…my birthday, girls trip to Florida, many races.

But too much rain!! Looking forward to a sunny June.

Anyway, here’s how the month went:

Weekday Runs:

I was able to run at least 3 times outdoors most weeks which is great because I HATE the treadmill.

: in Naples, FL

: in NYC

: in NYC – Eat River

I ran many times while on vacation. I was able to run while working in NYC and while in Rochester.The best thing about my job is running in different places. My weekday runs were usually around 3-4 miles (occasionally more and occasionally less).

Long Runs:

Vacation, work and the weather has made it tough to get in my weekend long runs. This is peak racing season so I usually just add miles to my races. But I was in Florida and it was too hot so I skipped my 12 miler. I only ran ONE long run and it was 9 and then I ran a half marathon. But on Memorial Day, I found some new friends to run with and we did 6.2.

: Mother’s Day on the rail trail

: 13.1 miles in Brooklyn

: 6.2 to honor those that served our country.

Total Mileage:

I only ran 73 miles so far this month (I may run some more Wed and/or Thurs.). An decrease in miles basically because of vacation and weather. But that’s pretty low mileage for a half marathon month!! The important thing is that I am feeling healthy so all is good.

and so I am way behind on my 1000 yearly goal

Races:

I had several races on my schedule this month. I ran a humid hot 5k while on vacation, a local 5k in the rain when I returned and a 5k in Brooklyn (while working in NYC.). I also ran the Workforce Challenge with co-workers (as a taper run) and then ran a cold rainy Brooklyn Half Marathon. All were fun and I met up with several friends at each. I was the Senior Grand Masters winner at the Tropicool 5k in Florida, 2nd in my age group at the Summer Smith Memorial 5k and 1st in my age group at the PPTC Summer Speed Series #1 5k.

: 2018

: 5-12-18 – Summer Smith Memorial 5K

: 5-17-18 – Workforce Challenge 3.5 m

: 2018

: 5-23-18 – Al Goldstein Summer Speed Series 5k #1

Cross Training:

I went on a tennis vacation so I played tennis 6 days and took lessons 4 times. It was wonderful to get back into the sport.

I did NOT work out at the gym at all.

I did not attend a yoga class. Someday…. really I do plan to.

I did not walk at lunch. But working in NYC does get me a lot of steps.

Other News:

I went on an amazing vacation to Naples, FL with my tennis friends. We played a lot of tennis, ate out at wonderful restaurants, went to the pool or beach everyday, attended the theater and visited the Warhol exhibit at Selby Gardens in Sarasota. But most importantly, a lot of much needed girl time.

I entered a new age group.

Despite all my work travel, I was able to squeeze in some friend and hubby time. These are usually spent with dinners in a restaurant. I saw the movies Book Club and Tully (recommend BC!!) We even took our boat out on the lake the first time this year.

: birthday brunch

: cloudy day on Lake George

: rainy day at the marina

The Freihofer Training Challenge began in March and went for 10 weeks and I was able to go only ONCE this month. It was the week of my half marathon so I participated in the beginner group workout rather than my usual advanced. Three out of 10 is better than not at all. But probably not cost effective.

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

Half Marathon #32 is not until September.

But I do have some shorter races planned .

This is my list so far for the next 2 months:

6-02-18 – Freihofer’s Run for Women 5k
6-06-18 – PPTC Summer Series #2 5k (in Brooklyn)
6-10-18 – Run for Help 5k? or 6-9-19 – Betar Byway 5k
6-12-18 – Brooklyn Ice Cream Social 5K
6-17-18 – Finest Memorial 5k? or Whipple City 5k or 10k
6-30-18 – Adirondack 15K Race to the Lakes
7-21-18 – Silks & Satins 5k
8-04-18 – 1st Monster Mountain 10k?
8-11-18 – Camp Chingachgook Challenge 10K

I am linking to Deb at DebRuns for her April Race Linkup:

No monthly goals.

This motto worked for 2016 & 2017 so I’m sticking with it in 2018!

I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life for

My Topic is: Give your running month a letter grade.

I’d say overall an A–

Despite the work travel and crazy weather, I did my best to get in my weekday runs. Strength training just never happens so I’ve decided not to beat myself up about it. I did play tennis for 6 days while on my vacation in Florida. I ran 4 shorter races (2 in the rain) and had course PRs in two of them. I also won an age group award in THREE of the races. I completed a bucket list and 31st half marathon in less than ideal weather conditions. Three races in the RAIN gives me bonus points, right?

Happy Running! How did your May turn out? Anything exciting planned for June? What grade would you give your running month?

May 27, 2018 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 5.21.16-5.27.18 – Recovering in the Big Apple

Last week I slept in my own bed all week. Not so this week.

Monday – After a train ride to the city and set up in Queens, I took the subway to Central Park to see if I was recovered enough to run. Mentally yes but my foot still protested so I ran a little, walked a lot and enjoyed a beautiful evening in the park. Then walked back to the hotel.

2.5 miles while my medal was being engraved

Tuesday – it was a rainy day so I was not tempted to run. Instead I spent the evening with a former coworker.
Wednesday – Racing? Who me? I ran one of these summer 5ks in Brooklyn last July so I signed up again. I was a little nervous about the foot but it turned out fine. It was warm and humid and I was slow but still won my first award in my new age group. Win Win.

Al Goldstein Summer Speed Series 5k #1

Thursday – Tired from work all day and another warm humid day but with the upcoming weekend forecast, I figured I should drag myself out. So I took the bus to the East River (after a1/2 hour wait for the bus) and then ran/walked a few miles. Afterward, I had a lovely (one hour) walk back to the hotel.

3 slow run walked scenic miles

Friday – Rest Day!! Worked all day then headed home on the train.
Saturday – I wanted to run with the FRW group (and go out to brunch with the wineglass ladies) but we still haven’t gone boating yet. And though the weather did not look promising for the afternoon, the hubby and I headed up anyway. And we had a nice day. Not perfect weather but no rain. After a dinner in town with friends, we drove home.

Sunday – Since it was raining at home, we decided to drive back to the lake. It was cool and cloudy but we had fun BBQing at the marina. Yup three days in a row without running. Sometimes life gets in the way and you have to take a break.

This Coming Week –

Monday – Memorial Day, DAY OFF, 5 miles
Tuesday – rest day, movie and dinner with Bff
Wednesday – drive to Rochester, 4 miles
Thursday – drive home, 3 miles
Friday – rest day, expo, mah jongg
Saturday – Race Day. Freihofer Run for Women 5k + 4 miles
Sunday – rest day, boating?

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Hom e

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Do anything fun during your Memorial Day weekend? Please share.

May 25, 2018 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0 – Running the Brooklyn Half Marathon

It’s Friday so I’m linking up with Running on Happy & Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

My 31st and most recent half marathon was the Brooklyn Half Marathon so…

Here’s my topic today:

FIVE REASONS TO RUN THE POPULAR BROOKLYN HALF MARATHON

Image result for brooklyn half prospect park

1. VISITING NYC AND ITS SIGHTS

I don’t have to explain how awesome it is to visit NYC. Brooklyn is just a subway ride away from Manhattan. If you run this race and you’ve never been to NYC, schedule in a few extra days before or after the race to sightsee.

I love walking over the Brooklyn Bridge

2. ORGANIZATION

I’ve run several NYRR races and the organization is incredible. Not a detail missed. Lots of info before the race, organized packet pick up, bag check at the race, etc.

Related image

3. PROSPECT PARK

It’s not a big as Central Park but it is big and beautiful. And if you enjoy hills, you’get them here too (but they’re not as bad.)

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4. SWAG

A nice gender-specific tech shirt, great medal…

: 2:11:23

5. CONEY ISLAND.

This race ends at Coney Island. There’s the boardwalk, food vendors, amusement park and the BEACH! What could be better? (except when it rains 😦 )

Image result for brooklyn half coney island

**I also need to mention that entry to this race is a lottery and it sells out in minutes.

My complete recap is here.

Happy Running! Ever run Brooklyn? Any other big race that you recommend everyone running?

May 22, 2018 by Darlene

2018 Popular Brooklyn Half Marathon Race Recap

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MAY 19, 2018

It seems like I’ve been planning to run this race forever. But actually it is a lottery and this year, I was determined to get in. I sat at the computer and exactly at noon, I clicked Register and my friend Sue and I both got in. (Sue is my partner in crime for the France 8k and the Shape Half – both in NYC)

I signed up to run Brooklyn as my 31th Half Marathon for several reasons:

I love NYC (and Brooklyn).
I had enough hotel points for a free room.
My friend Sue agreed to run the race and room with me.
NYRR races are so well-organized
Who wouldn’t want to finish at the beach in Coney Island.
It was on a Saturday so I would still have Sunday at home.

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 March 17 in Florida and since then I have completed easy weekday runs and longish runs on most weekends.

: 5k + 7 = 10

: 5k + 8 = 11

: Mother’s Day on the rail trail

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

I skipped my 12 mile long run entirely the weekend that I was on vacation in Florida. I added extra miles to my weekend 5k races. Only ONE of my long runs was completed without a break in between the miles and that was the last one of 9 miles

I am sure that this is NOT the my best way for prepare to run 13 miles. I am a coach’s nightmare. LOL.

However, I wasn’t really worried. I didn’t expect to run the half marathon at a PR pace anyway. I was running it purely for the experience.

Dealing with a crazy work schedule, travel and rain does not equal a fast finish time. The goal for this half marathon was survival and enjoyment!!

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

I learned some valuable lessons about pre-race prep on my last half marathon in NYC and Vegas– rest the legs the day before.

So we didn’t really walk that much. We took the bus to Manhattan and then the subway to Brooklyn so we could check into the hotel. Then we took a subway to Pier 2 to the Pre-Race Party to get our shirt and bib.

: Brooklyn Half 2018

The Pre-Race party was a little disappointing. Not many booths or food and there was no entertainment. But if you just wanted to get in and out, it was fine. You could also get any information you needed about the race and logistics. We asked a lot of people about what time to be at the race and got many conflicting answers so made our own decision.

: 13.1 miles in Brooklyn

While we were at the pier, we did a little sightseeing by touring an old schooner and watching a glass blowing demonstration on an Erie Canal boat. Our last stop was Coney Island where we had a delicious pasta dinner before heading back to the hotel to call it an early night.

Race Day:

Alarm set for 5 am. After much debate, we decided to leave for the race at 6:30 am.

I brought my usual race breakfast of oatmeal and coffee with me and ate in the hotel room. Good thing because the hotel breakfast didn’t open until 6:30 am.

My original race outfit was going to be a tank and skirt. But with each weather forecast predicting colder and colder temps, I kept changing my mind.

So in additional to the above, I added compression leg sleeves, DIY arm sleeves, a throw way long sleeved shirt and a rain poncho.

I was very close to adding capris and a jacket but decided at the last moment that I didn’t want to be too warm. Sue and I both also decided against a checked bag based on the logistics, long bag check lines and having to wait outside in the rain even longer.

Our hotel was fairly close to the start so we would have walked if it hadn’t been raining so hard. We had planned to call an uber but two sisters outside our hotel had already called one and offered us a ride. We accepted and hung out with them for a while before the race (one was running her first half… poor thing.)

We arrived at 6:45 to cold pouring rain and wind and did our best to stay dry by standing under one canopy after another.

Unfortunately we had to eventually get to the start. We waited so long that wave 1 (we were in wave 2) had already started. That meant we had to run across the course. Just imagine how hard it is to cross between runners running at a 5-6 min pace. I almost had a heart attack but we all did it successfully.

Then we had to wait on a very long line in order to go through security before getting into our corrals.

We decided to stay under a canopy until the very last minute and it was the right decision. Then the line moved pretty fast and we pushed our way into the corrals and just moved to about the 10 minute pacer.

I kept my rain poncho on until it was time to begin. Many runners kept theirs on all or most of the race. I thought that it would be too uncomfortable. I normally take off my throw away shirt too (because it was heavy cotton) but I was just too cold. I wished that I had gloves on, as well.

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 of course, not slip and fall or succumb to hypothermia. Sue and I planned to meet inside the Coney Island subway station and go back to the hotel together.

Anyway, here’s how the race went (photos courtesy of the NYRR website):

Miles 1-3:

9:53, 9:58, 9:14

As you can see, it was quite congested in the beginning of the race. For the first 3 miles, you run outside of Prospect Park and there were minor ups and downs in the elevation. I tried not to step in any big puddles but in trying to cut the tangents, I stepped in one monster one. In addition to my feet now being soaked and sloshing around, my throw away was getting water logged and I had to stop and toss it. The good news is that it was covering my watch and I couldn’t worry about my pace. I still had on my DIY arm sleeves for warmth.

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 am used to.) I stopped anyway even though I wasn’t thirsty. They were a tempting opportunity to walk and so that’s what I regrettably did.

Miles 4-6:

9:41, 10:27, 10:01

At mile 4, you head into the park. It starts 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 mile 5 to eat my first 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 rolled down my arm sleeves. They were so wet that they weren’t keeping me warm anyway.

Miles 7-9:

8:56, 9:41, 10:09

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 lack of long runs really reared its ugly head at mile 9. I started to get a big blister on my left foot (where I always get one). It was painful and I think it made my gait awkward. My lower back starting aching and then the arch on the bottom of my right foot started feeling funky. 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.

Miles 10-12

10:35, 10:02, 10:25

Still running down that endless Ocean Parkway. At mile 10, I ate my second GU and walked what seemed like forever hoping to get some zip in my step. Finally as you run 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.

Mile 13- 13.25

9:56, 9:21

Soon I saw the sign that said “800 meters to go” and then I was finally on the boardwalk. The finish line seemed so far away but all of a sudden, the race was over. I crossed….

Garmin time= 2:11:18
Gun time = 3:09:46
Chip time = 2:11:23

I got my medal and then was handed a bag with water, gatorade and some snacks.

too cold and wet to take any fancy pix with the medal 😦

I followed the crowd to exit and my original plan was to hang around, go to the After Party in MCU Stadium (where you got beer, pizza, Nathan’s famous hot dogs, etc.) but I was FREEZING!!!!!

a friend’s pic from FB

So I made a bee line to the subway to wait for my friend Sue.

I checked my phone and saw a message from her. “DNF. Quit at mile 5. Took an early train back to Albany.”

WTF?

I had the feeling that she didn’t want to run in the rain. At mile 5 we had looped the park and it was an easy walk back to the hotel.

Now I was stuck alone in the rain in NYC until my 6:30 pm bus home.

(In the end, it was fine. I had a nice lunch and went to the movies.)

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. It was hard to see my watch because of my arm sleeves (I had only rolled them down not thrown them away.) So I was pleased at my time. I thought I would finish much slower. I knew I would not PR but secretly, I wanted to finish faster than 2:12. That was the qualifying time for my new age group for the NYC Half Marathon next March. (I may not run it but it’s nice to qualify for something.)

Well, this was a bucket list race for me. Since I didn’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.

even Deena Kastor was not smiling

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
Water & Gatorade Stops at every mile (many tables of cups and many volunteers)
Crowd Support (even in the rain)

The Bad:

Running down Ocean Ave for so long was a little boring
Pre-Race Party was disappointing – few vendors
Congested before the start due to security check

The Ugly:

The Weather!!

: trying to look happy

: heading the finish

Would I recommend this race?

Yes definitely. Too bad, it sells out so fast. I would do it again if I could wait to see the weather forecast first.

Final Stats:

It was not my fastest half marathon. But it was actually faster than my last two half marathons.

I am pretty sure than if I had seriously trained and the weather was better (Honestly the rain just put me in a foul mood), I would have had a better finish time. But “it is what it is.” I chose to run those 5ks instead of doing my long runs (and I don’t regret it one bit). And you can’t control the weather. It was the same for every runner.

Next Up:

Image result for rock n roll montreal

September 23, 2018

It’s Tuesday so don’t forget to link up with these wonderful ladies:

Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life

I am also joining up with Running on Happy, Suzlyfe, Crazy Running Girl, and Coach Debbie Runs for the Coaches’ Corner linkup

coachescorner

Happy Running! Have you ever a big run in the rain? Do you prefer large races or small ones?

May 20, 2018 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 5.14.18-5.20.18: Race Week

Monday – I was supposed to have jury duty but I didn’t have to appear today. So I was able to attend Week 9 of the Freihofer Training Challenge group run. Being a taper week for me and having run 12 miles in the previous two days, I hesitated going and definitely about doing the Advanced speed workout. So I went and ran with the beginner group. A slow easy 3.5 miles. Just perfect. And I got to run and chat with a friend Denise who has been injured and I haven’t seen in ages.

Tuesday -Again I didn’t have to report for jury duty. So I was able to play tennis after work. Rest day for running (after running 3 days in a row and besides it was raining. My tennis lessons over vacation must have helped but we won both sets.
Wednesday – Finally reported for jury duty. I did take a long walk to the court instead of paying for parking or taking the bus. Not selected as a juror because I asked to be dismissed (chose to report again in Dec.) But no running again due to a hair appointment.

I missed Tulip Fest due to rain and these are past prime but still beautiful

Thursday – Back at work and because I was in town, I had signed up with my co-workers (as I did last year) to participate in the Workforce Challenge. Ten thousand runners in a 3.5 mile race downtown. Crazy, right with a half marathon in two days!? So to make sure that I didn’t race, I didn’t wear my watch. And I met someday who works upstairs from me who wanted a running partner to get her through the race. She’s much slower than me so it was perfect. We chatted and chatted and dodged the walkers. I may have finished 10 minutes slower than last year but who cares?
Friday – Took the bus to NYC with my running buddy Sue and subwayed to Brooklyn to check into our hotel, go to the expo and get ready for race day. That included a delicious pasta dinner in Coney Island.
Saturday – Race Day. Brooklyn Half Marathon. I had been looking forward to this race for years. Not as a goal race but for the experience. Running around Prospect Park and finishing at Coney Island. What was not in the plan was the RAIN!! Cold pouring rain and wind. It was so bad that Sue quit after mile 5 and took the train home. I persevered and finished. The last 4 miles were painful but I didn’t succumb to hyperthermia.

not my best nor my worst but at least fast enough to qualify for 2019 NYC Half.

Alone in the city on a rainy day so I opted to have a nice lunch and go to the movies.

Image result for book club movie

Sunday – Rest Day. We were hoping for boating weather but the nope, rainy Instead we did go out to a nice brunch to celebrate both of our May birthdays (and both qualifying for Medicare.)

This Coming Week –

Monday – train to NYC for work, 4 miles
Tuesday – rest day
Wednesday – 3 miles or Al Goldstein 5k (in Brooklyn)
Thursday – 3 miles
Friday – rest day. train home
Saturday – 6 miles
Sunday – rest day, boating?

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Hom e

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Anyone ever have jury duty? What about running a big race in the rain?

May 18, 2018 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0 – Racing in the Rain

It’s Friday so I’m linking up with Running on Happy & Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

Unfortunately I have too much experience for this topic. My recent two 5ks were in the rain In fact, the forecast for tomorrow’s half marathon is RAIN!!!

FIVE TIPS FOR RACING IN THE RAIN:

1. BRING A PONCHO OR GARBAGE BAG.

I don’t usually run in this but many people do. It’s for before the race and standing around in the starting corral. You can buy them in the Dollar store.

2. WEAR A CAP.

Even if you’re not a hat person, this will keep the water out of your eyes and off your face.

3. USE BAG CHECK AND BRING DRY CLOTHES.

You may have to arrive earlier or go out of your way, but a change of clothes is always welcome when you are soaked.

4. PROTECT YOUR PHONE.

Don’t leave it behind just because it is raining. Use a plastic bag or put it in your racing belt.

5. SMILE ANYWAY.

You paid for the race. You can’t do anything about the weather. So have fun.

*FOCUS ON THE POSITIVES.

friends & chocolate milk

** DON”T FORGET ABOUT CHAFING AND BLISTERS.

Water makes it worse if you are susceptible.

Wish me luck:

Happy Running! Any other tips for racing in the rain? Would you DNS? Who else is running Brooklyn tomorrow?

May 13, 2018 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 4.30.18-5.6.18 and 5.7.18-5.13.18 – Back to Reality

Two weeks ago –

Monday – Off to NYC by train. Once I had set up Queens and returned to Manhattan, I planned to squeeze in a run before dinner. But the weather wrecked my plans. Cold wind and rain. Nope. No run for me.
Tuesday – After work, I hopped on the subway to run in Central park. Finally spring like weather. Or more like summer. 80 degrees and the Park was packed with runners, beautiful flowers and fragrant smells.

Wednesday – Rest day due to having to get the train to return home, pack and get ready to leave on vacation the next morning.
Thursday – 8 am flight to Florida. We landed in Ft Myers and picked up a rental car to drive to Naples. This is our 12th tennis trip here so we have a routine and it felt like coming home – unpacking, grocery shopping, relaxing by the pool, dinner out, chatting, sleep?

Friday – My first Florida run – holy humidity! My goal was to run at least 3 miles most days before a tennis lesson and doubles play. After tennis we pack a lunch and spend the rest of the day on the beach, soaking up vitamin D, reading, playing Scrabble or strolling along the water – heavenly! Every evening we go out to dinner at a different restaurant. Tonight’s choice was the Ritz with a view of the sun setting on the Gulf.

Saturday – As I did yesterday, I went for a run, played some doubles and then had a tennis lesson. We thought it might rain (which it never did) so we stayed at the pool rather than going to the beach. Then we went out to dinner, to a play and out for ice cream. I could get used to this life.

: Our tennis instructor, Mark and a 90 year old player (my hero)

Sunday – The group played tennis and had a lesson. I instead ran a 5k race. No surprise there. The surprise was how hard it was to run in 100% humidity. Lucky for me, the older ladies from last year weren’t there so I was the women’s senior grand master champion. To celebrate we walked to the Naples Pier and then went out to brunch. Again it was a busy day (We had to record a song for the ladies who couldn’t make the trip – re-written lyric to You always on my mind) so we relaxed at the pool and then went out to dinner.

Last week –

Monday – It may sound boring but it was more of the same. A run, followed by doubles, a tennis lesson and then we packed a lunch and spent the afternoon at the beach. In the evening, we watched our tennis instructor play in a tournament and then went out to dinner.

Tuesday – It’s tough when every day it is sunny and warm. So I ran, played tennis, had our last tennis lesson and went to the beach for the last time. Tonight we had dinner but brought our desserts home because it was book club night (we discussed The Girl Before.)

Wednesday – My BIRTHDAY! And the day was absolutely perfect. I ran 6.5k and I played tennis after. Then we packed lunches and headed to Oscar Sherer State Park for a picnic and a hike. Next we drove to Sarasota to visit the Selby Gardens (and see the Warhol exhibit). We ended the day with dinner on the water.

Thursday – Last day of vacation. No running today. We played tennis instead and hung out at the pool unitl we had to leave for the airport.
Friday – Back home. Back at work. I needed a vacation from my vacation. Too pooped to even play mah jongg. Instead stayed home, unpacked and did laundry.
Saturday – Race Day. Summer Smith Memorial 5K. A cold, miserable rainy day. So tempted to stay in bed (with my headache) but I didn’t. Of course, I got soaked but still glad I ran this race.

course PR and 2nd in my AG

I spent the rest of the day (not at the Tulip Fest as planned) but with the girl I mentor and her two sons.

Sunday – Mother’s Day! Of course, I had to go for a run. It was cool and cloudy when I started but it warmed up and the sun came out. With a half marathon in less than a week and no run longer than 8 miles done, I thought I might run 12. Ha Ha! My legs said “no way” and I struggled even getting 9 miles done (with lots of walking). Let’s hope I can rally next Saturday!

50 cents ice cream cone – I couldn’t resist.

Th rest of the day was filled with laundry, grocery shopping, gardening and a late lunch with the family at my MIL’s house.

This Coming Week –

Monday – jury duty (postponed), 4.5 miles (FTC)
Tuesday – jury duty? 3 miles, tennis
Wednesday – jury duty? rest day, hair appt.
Thursday – Corpoorate Challenge Race (3.5m)
Friday – rest day
Saturday – Brooklyn Half Marathon
Sunday – rest day, boating, hubby’s birthday

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and NEW host Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Hom e

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? How did you celebrate Mother’s Day? Please share.

May 11, 2018 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0 – Running On a Non-Running Vacation

It’s Friday so I’m linking up with Running on Happy & Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

I just returned from a vacation where the purpose was to play tennis and bond with my female tennis friends. Not one of them runs but I did FIVE out of 8 days!!

Here’s my topic today:

FIVE WAYS TO FIT IN RUNNING ON A NON-RUNNING VACATION:

1. Be prepared.

Pack clothes for all weather conditions. Cool, hot, rainy, etc. Pack enough clothes to run every day.

This trip was easy for me. It was sunny, warm and humid EVERY DAY. I was also able to re-wear my skirts but the tops got pretty sweaty (but I brought many and we also had a washing machine if necessary)

2. Schedule your runs.

If you leave it to chance, it won’t happen.

I chose not to run the days I arrived and left and the day before my 5k race. All the other days, I took out my clothes the night before, set my alarm and got my run in between 7 and 8 am.

3. Be flexible.

Sometimes other persons’ needs or desires will come before your running.

Some of the tennis ladies left early so I needed to play tennis on the last day instead of going for a run. I also had a tennis lesson scheduled each day. I needed to make sure that I was warmed up before the lesson and that my friends were agreeable to me rotating into their doubles play for the last half hour.

4. Find a scenic route.

Pretty views make all the difference. If you plan to run often, you need to vary your route.

5. Lower your expectations.

Distance & speed goals will probably not happen.

With the heat and humidity, my runs got shorter and slower. I walked more often. But it was better than staying in bed.

**Register for a race in the area, if possible.

This is not required but a short race does not take any training or much time out of the day. It is a fun way to get in a run.

Happy Running! Do you run when you are on vacation?

May 9, 2018 by Darlene

The Birthday Post

Yup. It’s my birthday.

And I enter a new age group. (If you read my blog, you know my age and in the medical world, it’s a biggie.)

It won’t necessarily mean more age group awards because there are speedy ladies in this age group too (depending on the race.) But I am happy to be injury-free and running…often.

A few months, I wrote a post entitled Getting Older Rocks and I still believe it.

So what are my plans for the day?