November 24, 2022 8 am

This was my 7th time running the Troy Turkey Trot 10K.

I really enjoyed this race my first time I ran it in 2014 (in spite of the snowstorm) and now I look forward to running it every year.

happy because it was and still is my 10K PR (check out all the snow!)

In 2018, it was FREEZING and I DNSed the race partly because of the weather but mostly because I was going to be running a hilly Half Marathon 2 days later (which seemed more important.)

In 2020, the race went virtual and I did not run it.

In 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, I even ran both races – the 10K followed by the 5k.  Why not? I was already dressed and ready to run. Last year and this year, I was not as crazy. Just the10K as in my first year.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

I did not sign up for the Turkey Trot Challenge this year. So there was no real training for this race.  I considered it just a fun event to get outdoors and justify all the food that I would consume later in the day.

Previous Troy Turkey Trot 10K times:

• 2014 – 57:03 (PR)
• 2015 – 59:33
• 2016 – 57:51
• 2017 – 57:42
• 20:18 – DNS
• 2019 – 59:06
• 2:20 – cancelled
• 2021 – 59:49 (PW)

However, I ran a hilly half marathon just four days before the race and did a very short run on Monday and Tuesday. During those short runs, my legs reminded me that they were in recovery mode.

So I guess my goal for this year’s 10k could be sub 1 hour but really just being out there and running with friends would make me happy!

2021 peeps

I picked up my bib/race shirt the previous Saturday so I didn’t have to rush on race morning. It was just a drive thru at a local high school… and it went so smoothly!!

On Wednesday evening, I planned my Thanksgiving running outfit. I tried to be festive but also comfortable for the running weather that day. I was very excited that it would not be as cold as the weekend prior and not windy!!

very similar to the previous year but I bought a new shirt (Run the race/Stuff your face)

Then I completely forgot about the race.  So much so that I had chili for dinner followed by a glass of wine.  Oops and ice cream for dessert.

Race Day:

I woke up with a headache and upset stomach but not feeling bad enough to DNS. I choked down my coffee and oatmeal and checked the weather. Clear, calm but in the 20s degrees. I added another layer under my shirt, my DIY arm warmers, grabbed a down jacket and sprinted out the door at 6:30am.

I was treated to a beautiful sunrise.

There was no traffic and I found parking in a lot across from a bowling alley where I parked in previous years. I was still early so I waited in my car until I saw some runners heading out.

I walked a few blocks to the Atrium where we used to wait indoors for the race to begin.

Unfortunately, the Atrium was closed this year but we were allowed wait indoors in the office space next door.  However, no coffee shop, no two floors of space and NO rest rooms.

At least bag check was back. I left my jacket there for after the race. Lots of runners were hanging out. It was nice to talk with runners whom I had not seen in awhile.

This is a very popular local race as I mentioned so I always bump into so many runners that I know. I chatted until it was time to brave the temps.

I seem to run every race with Linda

The 10K started at 8 am followed by the kid’s one mile race and then at 10 am, the most popular event, the 5K.

The 10K course this year was the same as previous years.

Elevation:

according to my Garmin – I think it lost a signal going over the bridge

As someone was singing the national anthem, I squeezed into the crowd with the 10 minute pace group.

My plan for the race was to not to start out too fast and to run at an even pace and to save some for the last mile. (I know. I say that for every race. LOL)

Obviously this race was a lot less crowded than before the Pandemic (since there was also a virtual option). But for my pace, I was running with others the whole race. Though, it seemed that they all were passing me by.

Miles 1-3.1:

The course is fairly flat. You start running down Broadway and then over the Green Island bridge, turn around and run back into the city. I knew from my first few steps that the legs were still tired from those hilly 13.1 miles on Sunday. I tried to pick up speed but the legs were begging me not to try. And I felt nauseous (from the previous night’s dinner.)

I enjoyed seeing the fastest runners sprint by, as well as, those behind me.  I tried cheer both groups on.

can you spot me in the crowd?

I glanced at my watch (because I wanted to keep a slower pace the first few miles) and I noticed that I must have changed the display. It only showed the current time.  No miles, no pace, nada.  I tried to play around with it but it was hard to do while running.

my neighbor Kathy coming off the bridge

So I guess you could say I ran without a watch. Although there was a clock at each mile, I wasn’t sure how long it took me to cross the start line.  I kinda enjoyed not having the stress of knowing my pace.

After the bridge, we took a left and ran along the city streets for few miles. The roads were closed to traffic which was nice. The sun was shining and I was getting warm. I regretted that extra layer, took off my gloves and rolled down my DIY arm warmers.

I didn’t have to look at a watch to know that I was running too slow to PR. I wasn’t sure if I would even finish under one hour.

I started having to walk at mile 2 and then that need to walk frequently continued until the end of the race.

Miles 3.1-6.2:

Around this point, we again turned around and headed back toward the start. There a water stop but they were giving out bottles (due to COVID), It seemed like such a waste and since I wasn’t that thirsty, I skipped it.

There was great crowd support.  Better than normal since the weather was perfect. There were even tables passing out beer. LOL

And again since it was an out and back, you got to see both faster and slower runners.

I was running with other runners but as I mentioned above, most kept passing me by. Eventually my friend Carolyn caught up to me.  I was surprised because I am always behind her trying to keep her in my sight.

We ran together for a short time but I was struggling to keep a decent pace and she was not. I guess it pays to start out slow. Then my friend Linda  came up behind me.  She also seemed to have a lot of speed left in her legs.

I lost them both. I decided not to eat my GU and but finally did grab a bottle of water at the 2nd water stop.

With the Hudson river in view, I knew that I was getting toward the end. Then I spotted my friend Elisa cheering on the sideline (and she snapped of pic of me as I ran by.)

Finally I could hear the finish in the distance. I wanted to at least sprint through the finish line.

Another friend Holly was on the side line yelling my name but I had a hard time mustering up any real speed.

I crossed at 59:XX.

Almost a course PW but under 1 hour.

GOAL ACHIEVED!

Post Race Activities:

I grabbed a bottle of water and they gave you a medal.  The only refreshments were packaged nuts, bars, cookies and other snacks.  No chocolate milk. Boo!

I hung out for awhile chatting with my friends.

Then I checked out the results and found out that I came in 3rd in my age group.

For 1st you got a blanket, 2nd, a fuel belt and 3rd, gloves.

I can add them to my outfit next year.

I was used to hanging around to run the 5k so it was strange to be done running. But I was getting chilled (from sweating) and headed back to my car (but almost forgot to pick up my jacket from bag check.).

Additional Race Reflections:

No matter what my finish time was, I was glad that I decided to run this race.  I love the atmosphere of this race. I enjoy the challenge of a 10k as opposed to a 5k. It’s a great way to start off Thanksgiving Day.

Positives:

• The weather
• Race organization
• Easy packet pickup
• Race location – place to stay warm indoors
• Bag Check
• Mostly flat course
• Two distance options – 5k and 10k
• Virtual option.
• Knowing lots of runners.  Racing is fun with friends.
• Ample parking
• Well marked course.
• Varied scenery including river views
• A lot of pre-race information.
• Timing clocks at every mile.
• Three water stops.
• Enthusiastic spectators.
• Cool medal.
• Lots of media coverage.
• Instant results
• Cool age group prizes

Negatives:

• Bottles instead of cups at water stops.
• Unisex shirts
• No indoor restrooms
• No post race chocolate milk or bagels
• You have to BUY the photos
• Wrong pre-race meal (my fault)
• No speed work (my fault)

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Definitely.  It is well-organized and there’s a distance for everyone. Many runners are in costumes.

(However, if I run the half marathon the weekend before again, I may sign up for the 5k instead of the 10k. And there is also now a 5k right near my house.  We’ll see. I have a whole year to think about it.)

In pre-COVID years, 10,000 participated in these races. The attendance was still over 6,000 this year. A very fun way to start the holiday.

Final Stats:

Splits:

pretty even considering I couldn’t look on my watch ( but as always positive splits)

Then later that afternoon, I ate back all the calories that I had burned off. LOL

Next Up:

A fun 15K in NYC

Dec. 3, 2022

Happy Running! Did you run off that turkey? If so, how did it go? Please share.

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

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these ladies and you should too.

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.

November 13, 2022 –  8:30 am

This is my 8th time running this popular local 15k race.

I ran it for the first time in 2011 and it was my FIRST 15k race ever. I was glad to just finish and I did in 1:36:08. I was injured in 2012 and then I ran it again in 2013.

“fake” happy in 2013

With 1500-2000 runners in this race, they were forced to make some changes to the course.

It no longer starts and ends in Central Park. It also starts earlier – 8:30 am

Well, I loved the new course and my finish times improved for the most part (except for 2019 since the race was held a week after my first FULL marathon and then last year):

2014 – 1:33:23
2015 – 1:31:23
2016 – 1:32:49
2018 – 1:30:15 PR
2019 – 1:36:37 PW
2020 – cancelled
2021 – 1:35:11

In 2019, they modified the course slightly. They eliminated the bike path at the beginning of the race (which I did like because you ran along the Mohawk River and it was dirt so easy on the feet).)

Pre-Race Preparations and Activities:

My last long run felt hard… That did not make me feel super confident for this race.

maybe it was because I ran 12 miles and it was 70 degrees

During the week before the race, I just ran my easy short runs… on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday:

This race was supposed to be a taper for a half marathon that was scheduled for the next weekend. I even skipped my long run with my running friends and just walked and then met the others for brunch.

So I didn’t expect to race this 15k. I just wanted some exercise and to hang out with 1000 of my running friends.

I picked up my bib and race shirt at Fleet Feet the day before (although it really wasn’t necessary.)

Instead of my pre-race pizza that night, I had pumpkin and squash ravioli (mistake?) and got together my #flatme.

still in a skirt!!

Race Day:

The temps were in the 30s when I got up on race morning and it was forecast to only warm up to high 40s and be cloudy. I hate this time of year. It’s so difficult to dress correctly.  I was glad bag check had returned, so I could bring extra clothes for after and in case I changed my mind.

Even though I’ve been to this race several times before, I decided to carpool with Stan and Sherry. We left extra early and found a spot in a parking lot a few blocks from the start of the race. We walked over to the YWCA where on two floors you could wait inside, check a bag and use the “real” restrooms.

There were over 1000 runners on those two floors in addition to outside so I didn’t connect with as many friends as I normally do.

So we stayed downstairs to keep warm until the race start.

I recognized a few runners so I lined up with them.  Sherry moved further back.  We agreed to meet after at the refreshments area.

The 2019 course map:

I believe that it didn’t change for this year.

The course starts near Veterans Park in downtown Schenectady. The course travels west on State Street for 1K before entering the historic Stockade District and proceeding on a scenic bike path in Riverside Park along the Mohawk River. The course exits the Stockade District after crossing Erie Blvd. The course then proceeds east on Nott Street past Union College before entering the historic GE Plot residential neighborhood via Lenox Ave, Douglas Rd and Rugby Rd. The course exits Rugby Road and proceeds north on Waverly Place near the 5K mark. The course turns east off Waverly and follows Grand Blvd to the city boundary with Niskayuna, then proceeds south on Dean Street to Central Parkway past 8k. After a 1K residential loop on Central Parkway, the course enters beautiful Central Park and follows a bike path around Iroquois Lake and Duck Pond before reaching its highest elevation near 12K. The final 3k is mostly downhill or flat as the course exits Central Park and proceeds west through historic Vale Cemetery and Vale Park before a final downhill section on Franklin Street to the finish at City Hall.

the elevation according to my Garmin.

Mile 1-3.1:

The race started running down commercial State Street.

from THE DAILY GAZETTE

It was fairly flat but very crowded. I quickly lost my friends and just weaved my way through the crowd.

Soon, we turned and entered the Stockade (oldest) section of town.

Although it was chilly, I instantly warmed up and even felt overdressed.  I eventually took off my gloves and rolled up my DIY arm warmers.

photo by David Giacalone (2015)

After the Stockade area, we ran past Union College and around various residential neighborhoods. I also stopped at the first water stop even though I was not thirsty at all. (Yay for a walk break).

photo by David Giacalone (2015)

The hills were relentless. Why do I not remember them from previous years? Not rolling hills, just running up, it seemed.

I knew a lot of runners in this race. They kept catching up to me, we’d chat and then they would go on ahead. That was ok with me. I was determined to run at my own pace and have a stress-free race.

I remember there being a water stop early on. I wasn’t thirsty yet but I did stop and walk.

There was clock at the 5k point and I was surprised that I was under a 10 minute pace. However, I doubted that it would last.

There was a group of runners (including my friend Karen) dedicating their race to the US Olympic hockey team.

Mile 3.1-6.2:

By mile 4, I was getting hungry. We were still circling the neighborhoods. There were lots of course marshals directing throughout the course and many enthusiastic spectators.

I recognized one of my running friends who was course marshal… she yelled my name and took the  picture above.

But the second water stop was not for a while but I finally decided to choke down my Gu (without any water).

Around mile 6, we entered Central Park with its rolling hills, lake, and pretty foliage. More hills, of course, but not too bad.  The worst was yet to come. And finally a second water stop!!

There was another clock at the 10K point.  I had slowed down but I was still happy with my conservative pace.

Mile 6.2-9.4:

Between mile 7 and 8 is where the BIG hills were. I walked up them for the most part. They were steep but at least short. Many of the runners at this point were struggled up these hills or walking.  We laughed/groaned together.

There was a third water stop but much too late in the race.  I never ate my 2nd Gu and just took a quick drink.

from THE DAILY GAZETTE

We proceeded to run through the cemetery.  For the first time for this race, there were drummers encouraging us on… a very welcome sight. I was tired at this point… the usual foot pain, etc.  I just wanted to be done. But I didn’t have the energy or desire to push it.

from THE DAILY GAZETTE

Eventually we left the cemetery and ran through Vale Park before heading DOWNHILL on Franklin St to the finish line at city hall.

from THE DAILY GAZETTE

from THE DAILY GAZETTE

One of reasons I love this race is that finish.

I ran as fast as I could but I had lost quite a bit of time with the walks and the hills.

I barely crossed the finish line under 1:35.

I admit that initially I was disappointed…almost 5 minutes off a PR and one of my slowest times for this race

But hey,  I wasn’t trying for a PR.  It was supposed to just be taper run for next Sunday’s half marathon.  (I know you all get it…)

And I discovered later that it was a little faster than 2021 and 2019… Win. Win.

Post Race Activities:

I was now sweaty and chilled so I immediately walked back the YMCA.

This year, the food was again inside at the YWCA, the same area as bag check. I didn’t mention above that my stomach felt off the WHOLE race and I really did not feel well right after.

Although, there were many food options such as fruit, pastries, hot chocolate, pizza, soup, I did not eat a thing.

I checked the results and as expected, I did not win anything.

even a PR would not have helped… these are speedy old ladies

I grabbed my bag and found Stan and Sherry.  We decided to head out to a nearby diner.  By that point, I did feel a lot better and we had a delicious brunch (and lots of race talk.)

Additional Race Reflections:

Sure, I’d love to have those speedier legs return. I’m not sure they ever will but I do not plan to stop racing because my finish times are slower. I loved seeing all those runners that I only chat with at races.  I love the racing atmosphere and the challenge it always brings.

Positives:

• Ample parking.
• Well marked course.
• Great running weather.
• Lots of familiar faces.
• Bag Check.
• Interesting course (through the historic part of the city, neighborhoods, park, cemetery).
• Downhill finish.
• Friendly and abundant number of volunteers.
• Chocolate Milk, soup, pizza among other staples post-race
• Crowd support
• The electric atmosphere.
• Instant results
• Free photos
• Indoor place to gather before and after.
• Gender-specific shirt

Negatives:

• Hills during miles 7-8
• Big gap between water stop 1 & 2.  Water stop 3 too late.

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. It’s a great way to see this city…a little bit of everything.  I would recommend that you train on hills. lol

Final Stats:

My Splits:

I did enjoy this race. The course was so varied that it also took your mind off the hills. With the large number of runners (1000+), I felt like I was always running with others and it kept me going.

Yes, it was hilly. The first half had a lot more hills but they were manageable. The second half had fewer hills but they were steeper.

The best part of the race was that I didn’t put it all out there. I walked when I was feeling tired and tried to remember to treat it like a taper run. And nothing hurt after!!

This race is definitely on my must-do list. It was very well organized. Maybe all the stars will be aligned next year and I’ll get a faster finish time … (but probably not. LOL)

Next Up:

A Half Marathon on Nov. 20!!!

Happy Running! Did you race recently? If so, how did it go? Do you ever run 15ks? Do you like them? Please share.

October 22, 2022 – 10:00 am – The Crossings

This was the 7th year for this 5K race which is organized by the mother of one of the STEM runners who died of an overdose after completing her first 5k. This is her story – https://www.summersmith5k.com/summer-s-story

I was in the middle of training for a November 15k race and a half marathon…

However, I just had to do this race. I knew that there would be many other runners and volunteers from the STEM program. I wanted to support this cause and I am fortunate to have known and run with Summer.

The first 4 years that I ran this race, it was held at the end of May and started at a local High School.

Due to COVID, the 2020 race was cancelled (but run virtually) and in 2021, the date was changed and the location was switched to The Crossings.  The Crossings is not my favorite place to race. I have run there so often but it is what it is.

2021

I guess they decided that this was a better date and location since this year’s race was held again in October and at The Crossings.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

It was a few weeks after a half marathon (Oct. 2) and a few weeks before another half marathon (Nov 20).

So I’ve done the short runs on weekdays. It was a little challenging this week since I was in NYC and then Rochester.  But I got it done.

And long runs on the weekend? 13.1, 8, 3.1 miles…

I carb load with pizza whether it is 13.1 miles or 3.1.  I also wear a similar outfit:

always a skirt and compression calf sleeves!!

Race Day:

The race, as previously mentioned, started at The Crossings where there are real bathrooms, easy parking, and ample room to hang out before and after the race.

I arrived early just to make sure I got parking. I had already picked up my race packet on Thursday after I returned from Rochester.

Honestly, I didn’t really want to run a race.  I know, that sounds strange coming from me.  But I was pooped having spent two days in NYC and two days in Rochester this past week.  (I don’t sleep well and even worse in hotels.)

I knew once I got there, my mood would change.

Several who were in Summer’s STEM group (that I had mentored) were there. It was pretty emotional. I still get teary-eyed when I think about her.

Unfortunately, for the first time, there were no STEM participants running this race as their first 5k.  That was disappointing. I hope the program resumes in the spring.

This race is always one of the most organized races I’ve run. After you got your bib, you got a bag labelled with your name with a shirt and other swag. (There was also packet pick up two days before at Fleet Feet which I had taken advantage of.)

There were tables with representatives from relevant organizations (alcohol & drug abuse) also giving out freebies.

There were also many many raffle items and this year, I remembered to bring $$.

Before the race (at 9 am), there was a prayer, dedication ceremony and many speeches.

followed by a balloon release.

31 balloons were released for Summer (that was her age when she died).

Then purple balloons released for the others who also lost their lives due to drugs or alcohol.  Probably not a dry eye in the crowd.

The ceremony was followed by music and a kids race.

I waited around and chatted with many of the runners that I knew and two whom I haven’t seen since the last STEM race.

Kim (center) was a participant and Annette a mentor.

The race’s start was delayed until 10:15 so I had some coffee and something to eat (my breakfast was at 6 am)

I also talked to my former Freihofer & Troy Turkey Trot Training Challenge coach (who was timing the race.)

As you can see, it was very cool (low 40s) before we started the race. I had on a jacket, two shirts, arm warmers and gloves.

Then the sun came out and I wisely took off my jacket, arm warmers, gloves and even my long sleeved shirt.  There was no bag check so I just hid them under a tree.

The course:

a 3.2 loop around the park

Elevation according to my Garmin:

looks hillier than it was… mostly flat with some rolling hills

I have run this 5k route for several races … and it’s never been one of my better 5ks. But you never know.

Mile 1:

I lined up pretty close to the front since there were many slower runners and walkers in this race. It was not chip-timed (from the start) either.

I just did the best I could.  Not PR fast but I wanted to finish with a respectable time.  With the chilly temps and no warm up, my legs felt like lead at the beginning.  There was a lot of support along the course.  Friends of the families who lost loved ones to drugs were holding signs in their memory.  I was glad that I was running to support this charity.

It felt really hard to breathe. I thought it was the cold air.  But probably when I look at my pace, as usual I started out too fast. The course was a loop and the trees were at peak color.  Running into the wind was a bit annoying.

Mile 2:

The rolling hills started during this mile.  I slowed down and I felt a lot better  The crowd also spread out and I was following a women in red most of this mile. She kinda acted as my beacon.

As per usual, I stopped to walk at the beginning of this mile.

This was a water stop so I stopped again and grabbed a cup.

The crowd support was great.  Every volunteer that I passed who carried a sign (for a loved one lost to drugs/alcohol), thanked me for running the race.

Mile 3-3.1:

Ok now I was getting tired.  I probably could have dragged myself through the last mile and not walk. But I always felt energized after a quick walk and I did.

But as I got closer to the finish line, I walked one more time.

Finally the finish line was in sight, I gave it all I had (which wasn’t much at this point).

I looked at the clock and it said 28:XX. Phew!

I was pleased. I knew all the walks would definitely prevent me from having a sub 28 finish. I never considered a PR.

Post Race:

I hung around for awhile, chatted and then looked at the results.

I was starved since I had eaten breakfast 5 hours ago so I had some chocolate milk, a brownie and pizza.

I did win my age group. I was surprised because it was 60-69 (and I am 69.)  And the lady in red who was ahead of me?  Apparently I passed her at the finish line and she was in my age group!  (And yes, she pointed that out to me!)

By the time, I got back to my car, changed my shoes, it was almost noon.  I really did not feel like running anymore… but I did drag myself around the park and a trail to add some more miles to my legs.

Additional Race Reflections:

I was happy to support this charity. Plus the race was so well-organized. There were over 200 participants. Many who have overcome drug or alcohol addiction.

I am so humbled by the STEM women and others who have overcome adversity. And I am glad to have been a part of their lives.

Tyler has WON this race 6 years in a row honoring his brother. 

Positives:

• • Ample parking.
  • Well marked course.
  • Varied park scenery.
  • Indoor restrooms
  • Flatish course.
  • Immediate results.
  • Chocolate milk.
  • Many familiar faces.
  • Crowd Support
  • Great Post-race Refreshments (pizza!)
  • Important cause.

Negatives:

• • Too familiar a course
  • Annoying uphills and WIND
  • No photos
  • Same medal as previous years (and no date on it)
  • No speedwork to prepare (my fault)

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Great organization. Great cause!!!

It will in the spring again (I believe) and back on its original course.

Final Stats:

Splits:

4 walks in a 5k?? Geez…

Next Up:

a 15k  on November 13 and another half marathon on November 20.

SEPT. 24, 2022

A brand NEW race.  A downhill course.  A familiar route!! Only several miles from my home.

How could I not sign up??

The only negative was that I should have been running a long taper run (since my half marathon was in ONE week.)

It would only be a fun run since I haven’t trained for speed.

At least, I did run two 5ks in May and June, one 5k in July, one in August and one 2 weeks ago.

But anything could happen… I mean it’s my FIRST downhill 5k!!

No pressure…

Here’s some stats on my 2022 5ks (pretty consistent but far from a PR.):

• 05-01-22 – Sasha’s Super Hero 5k* – 28:40
• 05-15-22 – Tropicool 5k – 29:07
• 06-04-22 – Freihofer Run for Women 5k – 28:24
• 06-18-22 – Valley Cats Father’s Day 5k – 28:43 (GT)
• 07-06-22 – Al Goldstein 5k (in Brooklyn) – 29:11
• 08-14-22 – Run for the Roses 5k – 29:20 (GT)
• 09-10-22 – Malta 5k – 28:46

PR = 27:04 – Back in 2018.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Not much preparation for a 5k… my usual 3 mile weekly runs plus a longer run on the weekend in preparation for my next half marathon.

Here is the description of the race from the website:

The race extends from the Hilton Barn area of New Scotland to the finish line across the bridge in Slingerlands. The race kicks off the Fall Fest at the Slingerlands trailhead that will feature live musical performances, food trucks and vendors, as well as fun games and activities as participants come down the home stretch. Shuttle service will be available. T-shirts and one free meal ticket for all participants. Awards for top 3 overall Male/Female. Medals for Kid’s Run participants

the “Barn”

the rail trail

the “bridge” (not really but I love this one) .25 mi. past the finish line

Slingerlands parking lot and the race finish!

The weather forecast seemed to be perfect – a little chilly, a little windy wind but sunny.

the usual… it may be fall but I’m not giving up on the tank yet! (I’ll add my DIY arm sleeves if I have to)

I ate pizza for dinner as I do for any race (even though it was only 3 miles. lol)

Race Day:

I also had my standard breakfast of oatmeal and coffee. I guess I’m a creature of habit.

But the race didn’t start until 11 am.  Quite an adjustment for my usual 6 am meal.

I was hungry again by the time I left for the race.

It was a point-to-point race. So I could have taken the easy way out and park at the start and then take a shuttle back to my car after the race.

But I decided to park in a lot 1.5 miles from the start and then after the race run 4 miles back to the start.  That way I could get my 8 miles in as my last long run before the half marathon.

wore a throw away shirt on my run to the start

Bib/shirt pick up was at the Barn (near the start.)  Since my car was more than a mile away, I had no place to store my shirt or throwaways and no place to wait and stay warm.

I got there pretty early.  But I immediately bumped into an old friend.

We used to play tennis together before I became a runner

Being an inaugural race, bib pick up was pretty unorganized.  I got my shirt and bib but those who didn’t get there as early had to wait in a very very long line.  They also allowed day of race registration even though it as supposed be capped and sold out.

Luckily my neighbor showed up and she put my shirt and throw away in her car.

Even though it was breezy and in the 50s, the sun made it feel warmer.  I was perfectly dressed with a tank and skirt.

Soon it was time to head to the start.

Since this race has never been held before, I had no idea what the course was except by the map (below).

Race Course (according the web site):

There was no elevation chart but now I have one from my Garmin:

actually a very gradual downhill  -100 ft total descent from beginning to end.

There’s not much to tell with only 3.1 miles but here’s what I remember:

Mile 1: 

This race was chip timed so it didn’t matter where I started.  And there were not going to be any age group awards.

So I stood just behind my faster friend Carolyn (though I knew she would quickly leave me in the dust.)

I’m back there somewhere

Although it was advertised as starting at the barn and going downhill from there on the rail trail, you actually had to run around the nearby neighborhood (in order to get to 3.1 miles by the parking lot).

That was not downhill and that was not fun.

It was quite breezy too. As soon as I started running, one side of my bib ripped off (see the pics below.) I was afraid that the other side would rip too and I would lose the bib.  So I spent most of the race running and holding the bib with one hand. lol.

The only positive part about circling the neighborhood was that I could run the tangents and I did!!

Oh and that this mile would not be my fastest.

Eventually you did get onto the rail trail and yes, it was oh so slightly downhill but at least there were no uphills.

And the trees on the trail blocked the wind.  You really didn’t feel it at all.

Mile 2: 

As always I was tempted to walk as soon as I saw the mile 2 sign… but I held off.  There were no water stops so I had to decide when to walk.

Maybe someday I can run 3 miles without walking but today was not that day.

I walked around mile 1.5 and I think it helped me pick up the pace during this mile.

Mile 3 – 3.1: 

Since I ran the last 1.5 miles of this course before, I do have the photos below.

By mile 3 I was losing steam big time.

I wanted to finish strong and so again I had to decide when to walk.

And so I did walk at mile 2.5 or so and longer than my previous walk.

Eventually you could hear the crowd cheering (there was also crowd support at all the crossroads pictured above).  I could see the finish line ahead and so I sprinted across it.

not me!! (the winner) 15:xx

I forgot to look at my time but I did stop my Garmin.  In fact, I didn’t check my time until I got home that evening.

At the finish line, there were bottles of water, bars, oranges, apples, bananas, etc.

Post Race Activities:

Some my friends finished before me and some after.  But everyone was happy with how they did.

I ran into a former student…

Susan and Carolyn (my competition)

There were no age group awards and it was so nice not to talk about finish times! Everyone just ran for FUN!

the top 3 male and female finishers were recognized.

This race was part of a Fall Festival put on by the county.

In a nearby park, there were information tables (they even gave out free COVID tests and many other freebies.)

There was music, games, and food trucks.

When you crossed the finish line, you got a ticket for food from one of the food trucks. There were also FREE drinks (including chocolate milk!!)

I decided on pizza… it was quite a wait (since they made it there)

and I didn’t realize that you got a whole 6 slice pie.

Well, remember I planned to run 4 miles back to my car so today would count as a long run?

Plan B:

I decided to take the shuttle back to the start and walk (carrying the pizza) to my car.

Then I had to rush home to go to my MIL’s 97th birthday dinner party!

my SIL and the men in her life…

Luckily the weather held out and I was able to get some miles done the next day.

Additional Race Reflections:

I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this race. If I am around, I will probably run it again next year.

The past few years, I’ve mostly focused on half marathons.

Truthfully, I was a little nervous about how I would do in a 5k. Especially without doing any speedwork.

I definitely credit the weather and the course for my speedy time (faster than my previous 5ks this year.)

I have a ways to go if I want to PR. I need to either train to get faster or pace myself better so I don’t die during the last mile.

However, I am happy to be healthy, to be running regularly and interacting with others.

If my race times slow down, so be it.

Positives:

• Well organized for an inaugural race
• Participant guide provided beforehand
• Inexpensive ($10)
• Well marked course with many course marshals
• Shuttle to the start from the finish and vice versa.
• Cute gender specific race shirts
• Lots of familiar faces.
• Downhill course
• Perfect weather
• Immediate results
• One free meal ticket for all participants.
• Free drinks (including chocolate milk)
• Entertainment after.

Negatives:

• I could run here for FREE!
• No parking at the finish (but some nearby)
• Late start (11 am)
• No age group awards
• No bib pick-up before race day (leaving a bottle neck on race day)
• Long wait for food (needed more food trucks)
• No photos

Would I recommend this race?

Yes!!  A good race to try for a 5K PR.

Final Stats:

I was pleasantly surprised

OCT. 2, 2022

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

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these ladies and you should too.

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