April 18, 2023 by Darlene

Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon Race Recap – Again as a Spectator

Image result for helderberg to hudson half marathon

***************April 15, 2022******

As with all my big races, I impulsively sign up way in advance (and then often regret it LOL).

I ran the first annual H2H half marathon in 2019. Due to COVID, in 2020, I ran the race virtually and in 2021, I ran it on a completely different course (a hilly one). Last year, it returned to its original course

: 2019 – First H2H HM

: 2020 – Virtual H2H HM

: 2021- H2M HM (on a revised course)

: 2022 – Second H2H HM

So I signed up for 2023 Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon for several reasons:

FOMO. Many of my running friends were doing it.
It’s local. I can sleep in my own bed.
I am familiar with the course. I run on it often.
It’s a downhill course. (470 ft elevation loss)
~~I was already sorta trained from my March 19 Half.~~
It was part of a challenge with the Miles on the Mohawk race that I had also signed up for.

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I broke my foot on Feb. 14 while on a vacation in Florida and I had to DNS TWO half marathons (Fort Lauderdale and NYC).

I casually started running again after a month but really started after my 5 week x-ray revealed the the fracture has fully healed.

March 20

I debated over and over again on what to do about this race:

Transfer my bib and volunteer or spectate
Walk 13.1 miles
Run/Walk 13.1
Go for it… Run it!

The complication with the transfer was that I registered for the Challenge and it included TWO races – this half and a 10 miler on May 28. So I would be transferring both.

So I contacted the Race Director and they said that they would be able to separate the registrations.

I had started running short and slow distances and gradually increased my weekend runs from 4 to 6 to 8 miles Using run/walk intervals).

Could I run 13.1 miles???

Ultimately, pride aside, I opted to skip the race, not risk injury and concentrate on being prepared for my May 20 half marathon.

And my running friend Barbara bought my registration to this race but I kept the one for the May 28 Miles On The Mohawk 10 miler (for now.)

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

thumbs up in 2019 as my 2:11:15 finish time qualified me for the 2020 NYC Half Marathon. & Marathon

last year, 2022, my finish time of 2:12:24 was my fastest of 9 for the year

So before my injury, I was hoping that again this race would be my fastest of the year.

Today, I could just watch.

Several of my friends were running this race so I decided to volunteer to help in the finish area.

Race Day:

Since I had run this race before, I was familiar with the start and finish logistics.

Course Map:

My assignment was to help set-up at the finish line which was at Jennings Landing in Albany (along the Hudson.)

I arrived around 8:15 am and got a great spot in the parking lot by the boat launch and walked to the finish.

My first job was to help unload the bus with the checked bags.

I wanted to hang around and wait for runners to finish.

So I had also volunteered to hand out medals to the finishers.

I was fortunate to see the winners…

under 5 min pace for 13.1 miles (on a hot day.)

and of course, I got to see so many of my local running friends.

a former French student of mine

Soon some other friends who were course marshals joined me.

And we anxiously awaited our friends Sherry and Stan,.

They finally did and I was able to give them their medals.

And then we headed to get our boxed lunches (but skipped the beer tent.)

meeting more friends along the way

Post Race Activities:

And since it was Saturday I met my running friends for our usual brunch date.

And on Sunday, I ran 10 miles and 5 with my friend Barbara who ran this race virtually…

Additional Race Reflections:

The temps were warmer than usual for this time of year. I think I made the right decision not to run the race.

We’ll never know.

Hopefully, next year, I will be healthy enough to train for the race.

The Good:

Lots of race info emailed and on website including runner guide and spectator guide.
Easy packet pick-up. Neat race-related items.
Registration options – cheaper without a shirt
Free bus from the finish to the start.
Many porta potties at the start and finish.
Bag Check. Well organized before and easy pick up at the end
Downhill course (except for first and last 2 miles)
Water and Nuun stops.
GU available at several water stops (even salted caramel)
Great crowd support
Well marked course for each mile
Clocks at 5k, 10k, 15k, 20k
Very cool medal.
Great post race refreshments (boxed lunch)
Immediate electronic race results
PR bell
Free photos
Nearby – no transportation or hotel costs.
Support from friends

The Bad:

The boring, unscenic last 2 miles.
Fat-free chocolate milk (I deserve the real thing after 13.1 miles)
This year, it was very warm!!

The Ugly:

Not being able to run the race (due to recent injury (broken foot)

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes. Yes. ARE did a fantastic job attending to every detail. I hope actually race it again next year.

Next Up:

May 20, 2023

and finally:

May 28, 2023 – I’m running the 10 miler

Happy Running! Did you race this weekend? Do you have a big race coming up? Ever do a half marathon not properly trained? Do you volunteer often at races? Please share.

There is now a new link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these ladies.

I’m linking up also with this link-up:

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

April 15, 2023 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 4.9.23-4.16.23: Race Week

Yes, Saturday was one of my favorite local races: Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon.

It has a downhill course so as a result it has been one of my fastest half marathon each year that I’ve run it.

: H2H Half 2019

: H2H 2022

Unfortunately, this year I was laid up with a broken foot for many weeks.

I had the option of losing the money and just volunteering or spectating (since my friends were running it) or just run/walking it slowly.

Not an easy decision.

Last Week:

Sunday – Easter Sunday but unexpectedly I had to go to NYC for work.

Before I left, I had plans to go to the gym… but it was CLOSED. Boo!

So I decided to hike a bit to check out the spring blooms.

ZERO blooms but lots of reflections and mud at Pine hollow Arboretum

Once I arrived in NYC, I made sure that after I checked into my hotel to get out for a walk.

I headed to Central Park where EVERYONE else was and spent hours there (9 miles walking) among the flowers and cherry trees. I was in heaven.

many more pics on FB.

Monday – Since I didn’t set up for my class the day before, I had to take the subway extra early.

After work, I quickly changed my clothes and headed out for a walk/run.

Because I had spent so much time the day before in the park, I decided on the Hudson River Greenway heading toward the World Trade Center.

such a beautiful day and so after my run, I walked back on the High Line.

Tuesday – No time for anything but work as I had to head home by train in the evening.
Wednesday – I hadn’t been to the gym since last Friday but I couldn’t drag myself there early enough so I went at lunch time. (sorry no time for a selfie)

And because I missed my mentor assignment on Monday, I joined them for a run today… this time at a location near my home.

omg… so warm out but the beginner group was up to 5 min. running

I had to rush home since my college friends wanted to ZOOM tonight.

Thursday – Getting more spring-like everyday… or should I say SUMMER-like.

Thursday after work runs have become a thing so I joined my friends at UAlbany this week.

90 degrees with zero energy.. it would be an exaggeration to even call this a run… Stan took the pic of me with my running buddies (check out my shirt)

When I was done, I was supposed to meet my BFF for a walk in the mall (but she had to cancel) so I went out to dinner (and then ice cream) with my friends.

Friday – OK, definitely summer!! I started the day at the gym. I bumped into an old friend and we chatted (no time now for a pic.)

I hosted mah jongg tonight at my house.

Saturday – Volunteering at the H2H Half Marathon.

And no, this time I was sad but I didn’t cry. I am running again and I know I could have done the race, I decided instead to focus on my training for the Brooklyn Half.

My assignment was finish line set-up. So first I helped unload the bus with the checked bags.

And then I stayed around to cheer runners on and give out medals (on a very warm day.).

It was cool to see the winners as well as the many local runners that I knew.

And then since it was Saturday, I went out to brunch with my running friends.

Sunday – Long Run? 10 miles?

My friend Barbara bought my bib and was planning to run the race virtually. Since I planned to do a long run, I said that I would run some miles with her. Fingers crossed that we don’t have to do it in the rain or heat wave.

This Coming Week on the Run–

Monday – Day OFF – GYM, hike, FTC run
Tuesday, GYM, rest day, walk w/BFF
Wednesday – DIL’s 20 week prenatal visit, train to NYC for work, BBG visit, run
Thursday – short run, Broadway show
Friday – rest day, train home
Saturday – Long Run (11 miles)
Sunday – GYM, rest day, hike

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – H2H Half Marathon Race Recap – as a Spectator Again
Friday – 5 Ingredient Dinners

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big races? Ever run a big race undertrained? Do you like to volunteer at races? 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.

April 14, 2023 by Darlene

FFF: 5 Words That Describe Me

This might be the most difficult post ever to write. It is hard to be objective about oneself. Do I pick good traits? Or maybe those where I need to improve?

Well, here are the first five words that came to mind:

1.Loyal

I think that this is the most important quality to have to be a good friend. I hope that all my friends think that I am. Thanks to social networking, I have remained in contact with close friends from high school, college, tennis teams, and all of my jobs, in addition to, those whom I see frequently in-person (i.e. my running friends.).

2.Consistent

I call it Consistent, others may call it ‘stubborn” or “crazy.” I usually run or walk outside pretty much no matter what. In the cold, when I don’t feel well or may be a little sore and when conditions are not optimal, I “Just Do It.” I have to say that I am “Consistent” about fitness-activities that I enjoy (walking, running, hiking, tennis,) not about all other activities (such as yoga, strength training, biking, etc.)

I am also a “Consistent” blogger… I guess it’s because I enjoy interacting with my fellow runners 3x a week.

3.Active

The hardest part about the Pandemic or having a broken foot was sitting still or being stuck indoors. Pacing in my house is not an ideal way for me to get in steps. Rest Days for me are days when I can bike, walk or hike instead of a run.

4.Introverted

As a child, I was very shy. I hated to speak in front of class. I still do. I became a teacher and learned to become somewhat comfortable in front of students. I still dreaded those observations. Still do. Yes, I am social and have lots of friends but prefer to interact in a small group. You will never see me recording myself and posting the video for all to see. Never.

5.Spontaneous

I am not sure if this quality is positive or negative. Positive – I don’t miss out on things by over thinking and hesitating. I just sign up or just go. Negative – somethings that I have done were not good choices or planned out well.

Happy Running! What words would you use to describe yourself? Do you share of these qualities? 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.

April 11, 2023 by Darlene

TT: World Majors

One down and FIVE to go…

But this has never been a goal of mine.

If, however, I had a free entry to any of the World Major Marathons, which one would I pick?

Hmmm.

While I’d love to visit Tokyo, it’s such a LONG flight.

And I’d also love to travel to Europe so maybe Berlin or London?

I’ve heard that Chicago is a great race (and it’s a short flight away).

The above marathons are lotteries so there would be a possibility of getting in.

So I would to choose Boston.

There is no lottery. You have to run a marathon qualifying time or BQ.

I would never to be fast enough nor do I plan to run many marathons.

It’s also drivable.

125th boston marathon

Happy Running! If you had a free entry to any of the World Major Marathons, which one would you pick? Have you run any yet? 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.

April 8, 2023 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 4.2.23-4.9.23: Let the Training Begin…

What am I training for?

The Brooklyn Half Marathon on May 20!!

I’ve decided to skip the April 15th local Half Marathon and volunteer/spectate my friends. (My 3rd half marathon DNS of 2023 😦 )

Last Week:

Sunday – Postponed Long Run because it was forecast to rain on Saturday (even though it didn’t). 6 miles with Barbara, Sherry & Stan… my longest run since Feb 6.

Not gonna lie. It was HARD and the insane wind didn’t help. Grateful to have friends pull me along.

Monday – On my day off, I hit the gym first thing…

it was soo windy that I took my walk in the mall (I may have engaged in some retail therapy too.)

and then in the evening, I participated in my 2nd FTC as mentor for the beginner group.

90:90; 3min:3min. Luckily the wind had died down and the temps warmed up…

The one good thing about this new location is that it is not far from Trader Joe’s.

Tuesday – Since I was working from home, I could start the day at the gym.

It was rainy in the morning but by afternoon, it had cleared up. I decided on a rest day since I had run 2 days in a row.

Instead I went for a walk.

Wednesday – Teaching live for the next two days so no time for the gym or a run until after work.

I saw this parking lot near where I was working…

not a trail… just a busy road to run on…

It used to be a tradition to have a Seder with my mah jongg friends but couldn’t coordinate it with everyone this year.

the good old days…

Thursday – Same as the day before but I was fortunate to have company for my post work run.

It was raining and I probably would have bailed if it weren’t Stan and Heidi.

a very wet run but at least it wasn’t too cold…

Friday – Home again which enabled me to work out in the gym before work.

a new photo location lol

There is finally a few signs of spring at my house … but that wind!!

After work, my friend and I battled that wind for a walk on the rail trail before going out to dinner.

Saturday – Long Run! Finally a Saturday without rain in the forecast.

And I had company from Stan for all 8 miles. He was tapering for the H2H half marathon next weekend (I’m just building back…).. and the weather was perfect!

I felt so much better than last week’s run!!

After the run, we joined the others for brunch.

Sunday – Easter morning will start with a trip to the gym.

Then maybe a quick family visit since I have to unexpectedly take the train to NYC to sub for a trainer who had a death in the family.

I hope to get in a run/walk in the park after I check into my hotel..

This Coming Week on the Run–

Monday – run in NYC, ~~FTC~~
Tuesday – ~~GYM,~~ rest day, train home
Wednesday – FTC run
Thursday – run w/friends
Friday – GYM, rest day, mah jongg chez moi
Saturday – volunteer at H2H half marathon
Sunday – LONG RUN (10 miles)

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – World Majors
Friday – 5 Words That Describe Me

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big races? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

April 7, 2023 by Darlene

FFF: Ultimate Coffee Date for April 2023

It’s that time of the month…

Unique Spring Coffee Mug, SPRING IS IN THE AIR, Floral Prints Mug, Ceramic Tea Cup

time to join up with Coco & Deborah for their ultimate coffee date.

1.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I starting knitting socks when I broke my ankle in 2012.

the first of MANY pairs

Then I started again during the pandemic

ugliest (year) socks ever (ran out of wool)

And then 3 years later, I broke my LEFT foot. LOL

I started knitting socks again but this time I bought extra yarn!!

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that when I got my first x-ray on my foot, I asked to see the x-ray. The doctor asked why? I said to post on my blog. He replied I’ll show it to you next time.

So here it is:

The most interesting thing about this x-ray was the screws from my previous ankle surgery. I knew there were 4 screws on one side but not going in different directions?!

3. Over coffee…

I’d tell you that normally I trained for a half marathon with a 12 week plan.

Of course, when I ran a half marathon every month (as planned), I just recovered between races.

After NO running for 5 weeks, I only had 9 weeks before the Brooklyn Half Marathon.

As a result, I had to come with my own training plan (by modifying a 6 week plan):

Plans are meant to be ignored: week 1- 2, 2, 2, 4; week 2 – 4, 3, 2, 6; week 3 – 2, 4, 3, 8

But I think it’ll enable me to finish the race.

The question remains… do I want to just finish or cancel and run it next year instead??

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that as you know it’s been killing me not to race and I have had to miss quite a few that I’ve paid for…

I probably shouldn’t race at all before Brooklyn…

Check out these races on my spring schedule:

- 04-15-23 – Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon
- 04-16-23 – Delmar Dash (5m)
- 04-22-23 – Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k or 10K
- 04-30-23 – Sasha’s Super Hero 5k
- 05-07-23 – Tropicool 5k
- 05-13-23 – Prospect Mountain Run
- 05-18-23 – CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge (3.5m)

A recovering runner dilemma…

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that this coming month I’ll be working in NYC for the last time this year.

(Yes, I work all day but evenings are for running, sightseeing, friend meet-ups and Broadway shows..)

The worker who has been out sick has returned. I should now only to going to NYC for fun/races.

+Over coffee…

I’d tell you that once my foot healed, I decided to again participate in the Freihofer Training Challenge. This year for the first time, not a a runner, but as a mentor.

It’s a great way to meet new people, give back to the sport, get back in shape (and receive a 12 week free gym membership).

this year’s group

I plan to mentor with the beginner group on Mondays, maybe some Wednesdays too.

Monday location…on Wednesdays, it’s near where I live

Happy Running! What’s new with you? Any signs of spring where you live? Any races coming up? 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.

April 4, 2023 by Darlene

TT: Happy National Vitamin C Day

The good news is that Vitamin C is important for runners.

It is a potent antioxidant that plays a crucial role in decreasing the inflammatory response associated with exercise.
It is needed for the absorption of iron, which helps boost energy.
It also helps form collagen, the abundant protein that builds your skin, tendons and muscles. This supports your body’s muscle growth and tissue repair.

How can you get your Vitamin C?

A supplement.

Nature Made Extra Strength Vitamin C 1000 mg Tablets, Dietary Supplement, 105 Count - Walmart.com

All things citrus. My favorite are mandarins.

but Navel oranges have the most vitamin C

Strawberries.

Slider_Strawberries_Panther-Media-721x400

Bell peppers

YELLOW peppers actually have the most vitamin C

Tomatoes

Do Tomatoes Have More Vitamin C Than Oranges?

sun-dried tomatoes are the richest in Vitamin C

Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower)

Brussel sprouts have the highest, closely followed by broccoli

White potatoes

I do prefer sweet potatoes but unfortunately they are not as nutritious

Happy Running! So how do you get your vitamin C? 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.

April 1, 2023 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 3.26.23-4.2.23: Mentoring, NYC and the YMCA

Most of my week was spent in NYC (working in Jamaica.) But I was able to drag myself out for two runs and a walk in the evenings while I was there. (I say “drag” because although I love Manhattan, I am usually so tired by the end of day (leaving the hotel at 7am and returning at 5pm).

This week I also added two new fitness activities.

Last Week:

Sunday – Back to my regularly scheduled program. IOW – 3 short weekday runs, a long run/brunch on the weekend and a walk/hike on Sunday (if my run was done on Saturday.)

it was quite muddy, trees down blocking the path and missing trail markers but the weather (and views) was great.

Monday – I celebrated my return to running by signing up to be a mentor. for the first time. The Freihofer Training Challenge (FTC) actually started last Monday (but I wasn’t sure I was ready…)

Unfortunately, they changed the location of the training after I signed up so I decided to get in a run at lunch.

nice to be back running on the rail trail… eagle sighting LOL

I’m definitely a work in progress… stamina and speed are lacking but I’ll be working on getting it back.

I drove to the new location after work to volunteer with the beginner group.

C25k – week 2 (90:60 intervals) and finished before the rain

On the way home, I met up with my BFF for a mall walk.

Tuesday – As I did last Tuesday, I took the train to Manhattan and checked into my hotel. Normally I immediately hop on the subway to Jamaica to set up for the next day.

I had taken a later train in the morning so as result I got back to Manhattan later that usual. I decided to skip my set-up and go earlier the next day.

That gave me some extra time to run. This week I opted instead of going to Central Park, to run along the Hudson River.

it was a little chilly but much warmer than the day I spectated there.

After my run and dinner, I quickly changed my clothes and stopped in Macys (which was nearby).

such beautiful displays pictures don’t do it justice

and then I walked to the theater to catch a show.

such a fun show to see!!!!

Wednesday – After a long work day, I decided to just go for a walk in the park. I got a late start but any time of day is a good time to visit the park. Since it was getting late, I took the subway back to my hotel. Unfortunately Cari and I couldn’t coordinate a meet-up this time.

more signs of spring than where I live

Thursday – Another long STRESSFUL work day, but because I won’t be in NYC again for several weeks, I decided to mix things up and run along the East River.

I took the crosstown bus, ran a few miles and then took the bus back.

Friday – Last day in the city so just work and the train home.
Saturday – Long Run Day – But the forecast was for rain and thunderstorms so we postponed our run/brunch until Sunday. And of course, it was not raining in the morning… GRRRRRRR! I hate when that happens.

But I made my FIRST visit to the gym.

One of the perks of the FTC is free membership to YMCA for 12 weeks. I missed last week and was working in NYC the most of this week but I plan to work out on the machines several mornings a week.

Not much rain to speak of and the temps rose to 70 degrees by the time I was done with unpacking, cleaning and grocery shopping. So I headed out for a short run (in a skirt!!)

water was flowing and the sun shining… I’d dare say it was “hot”

Sunday – LONG Run Re-scheduled.

At least it’s not supposed to be humid and rainy… Just colder but sunny. We chose the Crossings. Stan and Sherry have to run 12. Barbara and I plan to join them for their last 6 miles before heading to brunch.

Since I have Monday off, I may even add a short hike to my day.

This Coming Week on the Run–

Monday – DAY OFF – run, FTC
Tuesday – GYM, rest day
Wednesday – run, FTC?
Thursday – run w/friends
Friday – GYM, rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – Long Run (8 mi.)
Sunday – GYM, Easter dinner with the family, walk/hike

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Happy Vitamin C Day
Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big races? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

March 31, 2023 by Darlene

FFF: Runfessions for March 2023

I was going to change this photo but March did look like this in Upstate NY.

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

Just because I was not running most of the month doesn’t mean there’s nothing to RUNFESS…

1. I runfess…

You may remember that I got accepted (though my time) to the NYC Marathon in Nov. 2023.

My fingers were crossed that my local running friends would get into the lottery.

But they did not!!

At least they said that they would help me train and come cheer that day…

2. I runfess…

I love to volunteer at races. I know how important they are to the success of a race.

at a local marathon/half marathon Oct. 2022

However, I’ve only volunteered at races that I didn’t sign up for.

I decided since I couldn’t run the Electric City 10k (that I registered for), I would instead volunteer.

I admit.. big FOMO (even in less than ideal weather conditions)!!

3. I runfess…

I was planning a 3 day weekend in NYC as part of running the NYC Half Marathon.

My first inclination after I got injured was to cancel the race, cancel my train, cancel my hotel…. (~~and hide in a hole until after the race.)~~

My two local running friends convinced me to come for 2 days and that it would be fun to spectate and cheer.

I admit that I agreed but with lots of hesitation.

However, I did have some fun times…

4. I runfess…

As you know I LOVE to race. I race a lot.

Believe it or not, I’ve never spectated at a race. Certainly not at a race with 25,000 runners.

Yes, I was a little nervous about the logistics and finding my friends.

taken by Cari, spectator extraordinaire

And although I thought I had it all planned out..

Well, I did see them but they did not see me… hence lousy pics:

5. I runfess…

Not running or racing has not stopped me from buying running-related items.

on sale!!

planning my comeback with run/walk intervals

This has been a hard month for me…. thanks so much for all your support!!

I really appreciate it!!

❤ U all!

Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? Anyone else get into the lottery for the NYCM 2023? Any advice for training after a layoff from running? 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!

March 28, 2023 by Darlene

NYC Half Marathon Race Recap – The Spectator Version

MARCH 19, 2023

I got a guaranteed entry by running the 2022 Virtual NYC Half Marathon last March.

Then two of my local friends Sherry and Stan got in through the lottery, as well, as several running bloggers (Cari, Erica, Zenaida, Deborah)..

I had been hoping to run the race back when the course was only through Manhattan. (Now it starts in Brooklyn.) And I had entered the lottery several times but never got in.

Then in 2019 I got a guaranteed entry (from my 2018 Brooklyn Half Marathon finish time). However, I was recovering from a strained calf muscle that year and couldn’t enjoy the race fully.

I did enjoy hanging out with Cari!!

So I signed up for the NYC Half Marathon as my 6463rd Half Marathon (5756th if not counting the virtual ones) for several reasons:

I had a guaranteed entry.
I love NYC.
I had friends running it.
There would be a blogger meet-up.
I wanted a healthy re-do of the course.
It’s such a prestigious race. How could you not?

Half Marathon Training:

I had trained for my Feb 19 Half Marathon in Fort Lauderdale, FL with several long runs of 10, 11, 12, and 10 miles

Then on Feb. 14, I fell and broke my foot. Obviously I didn’t run that race.

And, of course, training for this race was out as well.

To put it mildly, I was devastated about the whole thing.

Pre-Race Activities:

My first inclination was to cancel everything: The race, the train ticket and my hotel reservations.

But I had planned this 3 day weekend with two friends as well as meeting up with several bloggers who were in town to run this race.

My local friends convinced to come for two days and spectate the race and cheer them on.

I agreed but hesitantly.

So Stan, Sherry and I took the train to NYC together early Saturday morning. When our rooms weren’t ready, we decided to get a bite to eat.

a must eat in NYC

Afterward, we headed to the expo where they picked up their bibs/shirts.

But actually I hadn’t cancelled my race registration YET so I was able to get my ($300) shirt.

: my favorite color too

And then immediately, with tears in my eyes I logged into NYRR:

In addition to supporting my local friends at the race, another highlight of the weekend would be meeting up with some fellow bloggers, two of whom I’d never met IRL.

It was a beautiful day with signs of spring everywhere. Too bad the temps would drop and winds pick up the next day.

So we all walked to Bryant Park and I met up with Erica & Cari for coffee (Unfortunately Zenaida was at a Broadway show and Deborah on a Brooklyn pizza tour)

We chatted for a while (abut racing of course) and then I walked back to my hotel to meet up with Sherry and Stan

For dinner we took the subway to Brooklyn to carb load with Stan’s son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter.

When we got back to our hotel, Sherry excited prepared her “flatme” and we tried to go to bed early.

Race Day:

Sherry’s alarm went off bright and early (5:30am?) as she and Stan had to UBER to the shuttle bus.

The race and logistics were similar to 2019 (you can read my recap here.)

Starting in Prospect Park and ending in Manhattan’s Central Park.

I wanted to cheer on my friends as well as see the elites…

Before the race, I added all my friends to the half marathon app so I could track them:

I tried to go back to sleep but couldn’t so I put on my running shoes and headed out to Times Square in hopes of catching the elites go by.

I started off at 42nd (on the south side of the street):

Yes, I had to RUN there and barely saw Des and Molly but did get a pic of some others.

I was ok running but not standing still. It was COLD (20s) and WINDY!! So I ran back to the hotel to put on some warmer clothes.

(I have to admit that watching the happy runners go by in a race I so wanted to run finally made those tears flow…I called my hubby and then I felt better the rest of the day.. I guess I needed a good cry. LOL)

I had another cup of coffee and breakfast but it was still early and Sherry, Stan and Cari were not starting until wave 5. So I decided to take the subway to Central Park (congratulated lots of early finishers on the train) to check out the cherry blossoms…

To kill some more time, I walked around the Onassis Reservoir.

Don’t let those pictures fool you… it was FREEZING and much windier on the race course.

Now it was time to head back to my spot on Times Square to spectate and cheer.

I took the subway back to 42nd. I had texted my friends where I’d be but they never saw the text.

It seemed like forever (when it’s that cold and windy) but finally I saw them go by.

43rd & Broadway – mile 10.5ish and no they didn’t hear me screaming

And Cari was shortly behind them.

in green leggings

I definitely failed as a cheerleader/photographer but it was the thought that counts.

For some reason, I thought I wouldn’t have enough time to get to the finish so I headed to 8th and RAN to Columbus Circle.

I was way early and waited and waited (and shivered) until they were done.

Post Race Activities:

We were ALL so cold that we decided rather than walking back to the hotel, we’d take the subway (with thousands of other runners).

a subway post-race pic

After some long HOT showers, we took off by foot to an Italian restaurant for an early dinner.

We needed to re-fuel. I mean ~~running~~ spectating is hard work.

Afterward, we walked back to the hotel so I could get my luggage and take the train home.

Before I broke my foot, I had planned to stay an extra day and enjoy some fun activities.

But in hindsight, it was probably best to get home since I had to return on Tuesday for work.

Additional Race Reflections:

Since I cancelled my entry, I am guaranteed for 2024.

Until then, there’s a bigger challenge – NYC MARATHON – Nov.5!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Good:

Supporting my friends.
Meeting up with Cari and Erica
Ate some very delicious NYC food
Got a pretty purple shirt
Burned some calories walking.
Even did some sporadic running (and my foot didn’t hurt)
Feel better prepared with the logistics of the race for 2024

The Bad:

Cold
Wind
$$$ spent
NOT RUNNING THE RACE!!

The Ugly:

My Injury!!

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes. Yes.

Do it if you can. You won’t regret it.

No, it’s not an easy course. At least 25,000 runners are there so it is crowded. But running from Brooklyn to Manhattan is such a memorable experience (maybe I’m biased?)