July 27, 2021 by Darlene

TT: Running Solo

The topic for today is: Benefits of Running Solo

Although my preference is running with a group, it is not always possible.

There are some benefits to running alone too:

You choose your pace.

You can run slow or push the pace. You can walk when you feel like it or just stop and take photographs. No pressure.

You can be flexible with regard to time and distance.

You can wait for the rain to stop or change your mind and run in the evening rather than the morning, You can cut short your run or if you feel like it, you can extend it.

too hot for 3 miles

3 mile planned run but too pretty to stop

You choose the location.

You can leave for a run right from your house or from your workplace. No driving to a scheduled location is necessary.

just running in the ‘hood

at Ualbany which is near where I work

You can be spontaneous.

You can decide to go for a run on a new route

or do speed drills at a track.

You can listen to music or a podcast or do a Peleton workout.

Just put on your headphones and zone out to your favorite tunes or podcaster or Peleton instructor.

You can just be alone with your thoughts.

or just plan your day or figure out a solution to a problem or maybe just appreciate nature

Happy Running! Do you often run solo? If so, what benefit(s) does it offer you as a runner? Please share.

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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.

July 13, 2021 by Darlene

Firecracker 4 Race Recap

July 4, 2021 9:00 am

Most of my weekend running friends usually run this race.

if you read my weekly run downs, you may recognize a few of these runners

I never have joined them because it’s always hot, the race is crowded and I’d prefer to head up to the lake early.

For some reason, when I went to Fleet Feet to pick up new shoes, they offered a $5 discount for the race and $5 coupon for the store.

I’m a sucker for discounts and I signed up!! I also have not run in Saratoga in a while and I’ve always enjoyed running there.

I was hoping that some of my running friends would sign up too but if not, I knew there would be many others there who I knew.

Then I had to break it to my hubby as it would interfere with our lake plans.

pic from 2018

It wasn’t exactly boating weather so he was cool with me racing.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

It was fun to plan a patriotic race outfit (and hope it stayed warm and dry.)

red white and blue tank, skirt and socks

To save time on race day, I picked up my race packet at Fleet Feet on Thursday before my evening trail run.

The weather during week preceding the race was crazy – oppressive heat and humidity and then rain rain rain rain. Who knew what race day would bring? The forecast was for cool and rainy….

It was weird to run on a Sunday instead of a Saturday and to not do a weekend long run.

I actually walked on Saturday while my friends ran

The only constant was pizza the night before the race lol.

Race Day:

My last race was also a 4 miler (I won my AG and had a PR).

But this race was going to be more crowded, more competitive, and hillier. I was only planning to enjoy running with others and the excitement of a live in-person race. No finish time and award goals at all!!

I ate my usual oatmeal and coffee breakfast. Thankfully, the heat wave had ended (and hopefully all the rain).

I planned to leave early because I had no idea where to park. But my friend Heidi offered to meet me and drive us. She wanted to leave from Leah’s Cakery (4 exits before the race) at 8:10 am. Of course, if you know me, I like to get to races early. I was planning on being at the race by 7:45!! But I agreed and hoped that we would not be sprinting to the start line.

It was raining lightly on my way to meet Heidi. But she was right. We easily found parking on the street and arrived in plenty of time for the 9 am race.

We walked toward the start…

We passed the finish line and made plans to meet there after the race.

Then of course, we took our obligatory pre-race photo.

glad that I wore a tank since it was quite humid. Those DIY arm sleeves did not last on long.

And then we mozied on down to the start area. It was cool to see how creatively everyone was dressed for this July 4th holiday race.

Although the race director had hoped to get at least 3000 runners, there were only about 2000. Still it was my largest post pandemic race. And the first one without anyone wearing a mask or social distancing rules enforced. There was not even a staggered start.

Everyone just lined up together. There was so much excitement in the air. Live racing rocks!!

Heidi headed toward the back since she was recovering form an injury and running slower. I stayed toward the front and chatted with some runners that I knew.

As I mentioned, I had NEVER run this race so I was planning on going with the flow. The only thing I remembered hearing was that there was a BIG hill during mile 4.

course map

elevation according to my Garmin

Mile 1:

As I mentioned, this was a crowded race. The bottleneck at the beginning slowed me down which was probably a good thing as I always start out too fast.

We began running down Broadway which was a slight downhill but eventually we did hit a hill before we turned left and ran past Congress Park.

It seemed like everyone was passing me by but when I glanced at my watch, it showed that my pace was under 9 minutes!!

Mile 2:

I was surrounded by runners the whole race. Several times I bumped into runners or they bumped into me. Maybe I forgot what it was like to run a big race.

As we ran through neighborhoods, spectators enthusiastically cheered us on. One group sprayed us with a hose. I wasn’t super hot but it was humid and so it felt good.

There was a water stop and I did stop at it. They gave you a bottle of water. I and most runners, drank a little and then threw the bottle away. Volunteers had to spill out the water from each bottle. Such a waste but hey at least we didn’t have to carry our own water.

mile 2- never saw that photographer

but at least I WAS running lol

Mile 3:

We ran into a few rolling hills during this mile but none too bad. There were many different groups playing music. That was a nice distraction.

Saratoga is such a pretty town. I enjoyed running through its streets.

I was surprised that there was a second water stop since the race was only 4 miles. I did appreciate it and I took a bottle of water again. This time I walked longer. I felt a little dizzy and so I took a Gu (not for hunger but for the electrolytes.)

Mile 4:

I was warned about the steep hill in the last mile. And it did not disappoint. I was wishfully thinking that I could run up the whole thing.

Nope! I had to walk at least twice.

The best part was the ice pops that were handed out. I ate one as I continued to run up the hill very slowly.

Finally I spotted that big American flag which meant we were approaching the finish line.

I sprinted as fast as I could at this point. I saw 36:xx on the clock as I crossed the finish line and was pleasantly surprised.

I do remember trying to beat the guy with the stroller. Did I stop my watch too soon??

Done!!!

Post Race:

I immediately went to grab a bottle of water. The only refreshments were bananas and so I grabbed one and ate it while I was waiting for Heidi to finish.

I really enjoyed watching so many of the runners finish, especially those that I knew. I also got to admire all the patriotic outfits.

I chatted with a Holly, a runner that I used to race with all the time. (She ran the race but is suffering from a congenital blood disorder 😦 )

Eventually Heidi did arrive and she did much better than she hoped as well.

I checked the website to see if I won an age group award. Nope. 4th. Not disappointed at all. In fact I beat Carolyn for the first time EVER in a race.

It was now starting to rain so we headed toward the car.

We decided to have brunch back at Leah’s where I left my car. But it was closed for the 4th. Plan B was Lakeside Farms and a scrumptious lunch!!

On the way home I was feeling a little energetic or so I thought. I stopped at the Zim Smith bike path to see how many more miles my legs could still go.

The sun came out and my legs protested so I quit.

Additional Race Reflections:

I didn’t expect to enjoy this race as much as I did. I also didn’t think I could run as well as I did.

I felt that I could have done better if I didn’t walk as much(but I always say that AFTER the race.)

But probably the most important factor was the weather. Not much sun, a misty rain on and off and temps in the 60s. Pretty perfect for running on a July 4th.

Positives:

Ample parking (parking garage and street parking)
Well marked course.
Lots of familiar faces.
Interesting course.
Friendly volunteers.
Music entertainment along the course.
Volunteers calling out times at each mile.
Enthusiastic spectators (sprinklers and ice pops)
Easy and organized packet pick-up on Thurs, Fri, Sat and Sun.
Real restrooms before and after and ample number of port-potties
Two water stops for a 4 mile race.
Free photos.
Awards (3 deep) for 5 year age group awards
Weather (not as hot as earlier in the week and fairly dry)
A real race.

Negatives:

Bottled water at the water stops (COVD safe but most was wasted)
Post-race refreshments (again COVID safe – but just bananas)
Steep hill at mile 4

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes. Yes. I loved it. I hope that I can make it work and run it again another year.

Final Stats:

It was a 12 second PR!!!!!!!!! And the course was longer and hillier than the Rabbit Ramble.

As you can see below, I’m still the Queen of the Positive Splits.

At least my pace was more consistent than the last race.

2 waterstop walks and two hill walks.

Next Up:

A new 5k on July 25,

2021 FASNY Hudson 5K Run/Walk

then another new 5k on August 8,

and a 10k on August 14.

I ran the 5k in 2017

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.

Happy Running! Did you race on July 4th? Did you run or race this past weekend? Any in-person races on your schedule yet? Please share.

July 6, 2021 by Darlene

TT: Hiking 2021 – Mid-Year Update

Photo by Nina Uhlu00edkovu00e1 on Pexels.com

Once the Pandemic hit in March 2020, I knew that running 30 or more races including one half marathon each month would not likely happen.

I planned to continue to run hoping that the Pandemic would end but just in case, I knew that I needed an additional goal to stay active. Since I was working from home with no travel plans, I would have extra time.

In April, I decided that in addition to running, I would visit 25 trails in my area.

Before 2020, I had NO idea how many nearby opportunities there were for hiking. I wound up enjoying my trail walks, both solo and with friends, even more than my runs.

So I made the effort to visit as many trails each week as I had time for. Both after work and on weekends. By June, I changed my goal to 50 trails and to also re-visit the ones I liked and in different seasons.

And at the end of 2020, I had visited 72 different trails!!!!

2021 began and the Pandemic continued. And even when things started opening up and races being held, I vowed to continue my hiking adventures. No goals other than re-visit trails that I enjoyed plus discover some new ones.

So here’s a list of the NEW trails that I have visited so far in 2021:

Indian Kill Preserve
Burden Pond Preserve (2)
Sanders Preserve
Plotterkill Preserve (2)
Secret Woods Preserve (Ft Lauderdale, FL)
Grafton State Park
Ooms Conservation Area
Hand Hollow Conservation Area
BeeBe Hill Forest Trails
Cohoes Falls Trail (Waterford)
Owen D. Young Nature Trails
Wintergreen Park
Buttermilk (Yatesville) Falls (Montgomery Cnty)
Paint Mine Trail (Thacher Park)
Escarpment Trail (Thacher Park)
Barbersville Falls Ridge Trail (2)
Barbersville Falls – Creek Trail
Ferncliff Forest Fire Tower
Poet’s Walk
Myakka State Park (Sarasota, FL)
Falling Waters Preserve
Saugerties Lighthouse Trail
Postenkill Gorge Trail
Dionondahowa Falls
Hudson Crossings Park Trails
Kaaterskill Rail Trail
Kaaterskill Falls (lower falls)
Kaaterskill Escarpment Trail
Lawson Lake Trail
Indian Ladder Farms Trail
The Pinnacle

High Falls

Cohoes falls

Paint Mine

Indian Ladder

Barbersville Falls

Indian kill

Lawson Lake

Owen D Young

Kaaterskill Falls

Plotterkill

Postenkill Gorge

Beebe Hill

The Pinnacle

Falling Waters Preserve

Ooms

Hudson Crossings Park

Poet’s Walk

Saugerties Lighthouse Trail

Ferncliff Forest

Myakka St. Pk

Wintergreen Pk

Burden Pond

Secret Woods

Diondondahowa Falls

Buttermilk Falls

Escarpment

GRAND TOTAL = 31

That doesn’t count the times that I have re-visited many of the trails.

You may have noticed that Hiking Sunday has been replaced by Boating Sunday.

But don’t worry. I have discovered a new love. And there are so many more places that I have not hiked yet.

And I’ll be back out there come Fall.

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

I’m also linking up here:

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

Happy Running! Any non-running goals or accomplishments in 2021? Please share.

June 29, 2021 by Darlene

TT: Mid-Year Review 2021

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

My topic, as it is the end of June, is a Mid-Year Review.

I decided to look back at my WORD for 2021 (RESILIENCE) and see how I’ve progressed.

Here’s are the things that I wanted to work on in 2021:

Prioritize relationships.

Sometimes it feels easier to run alone but being with others can help you get back on track. However, try to surround yourself with those who either share your goals or support you on your own running journey. These relationships also include your VIRTUAL running friends!

Y – As much as possible, I have tried to run with others.

long run Saturdays

and join other running bloggers!

Join a group.

As I said above, it’s often easier to just run by yourself on your own schedule. I am fortunate that my area already has many running groups formed. You just have to join them on their runs. Virtual groups count as well!

Y – In addition to my running friends, I have participated in SOAR group runs, Ice Cream group runs and ARE Trail group runs.

Summer Trail Run Series each Thursday evening

obviously an ice cream group (every Wednesday evening)

Take care of your body.

Proper nutrition, ample sleep, hydration, and regular exercise can strengthen your body and help you adapt to anything life throws at you.

Y/N – To some, I may not eat healthy or get enough sleep. I do not stretch or foam roll but I do walk, hike and run regularly. That’s something 🙂

Hiking Sundays

but I do have a big weakness for ice cream

Practice mindfulness.

Journaling, yoga, prayer, or meditation can help. And when you do any of these activities, remember to focus on the positive aspects of your life and remember the things you’re grateful for.

Y/N – The closest I get to it is during my solo hikes in nature settings.

climbing those fire towers

loving my waterfalls

Avoid negative outlets.

In stressful times, you may often turn to overeating, alcohol or even over-exercising. You may feel better but it’s like “putting a bandage on a deep wound.” Find ways to manage your stress in healthy ways.

Y – I admit that an occasional ice cream cone or a glass of red wine does make me feel better. But running/racing or hiking with friends has been my regular stress-reliever.

even in the rain, it was great to race and be with friends

fun times on the trails

Help others.

Whether you volunteer or simply support a friend in need, you will gain a sense of purpose and self-worth. Again I feel fortunate that there are many local opportunities to volunteer as a runner: being a mentor with the Frehofer Run training group, or with STEM or with GOTR. You can also informally mentor/help your running friends.

NA – Due to COVID, not many official volunteer activities. Informally, I run and walk with friends so hopefully that is helpful to them. I hope to start volunteering with STEM at the end of the summer.

does bringing your running friend her favorite macarons count?

Be proactive.

In other words, acknowledge and accept your past (unhappy) situations. But more importantly, take initiative in recognizing the strengths that you possessed and the successes you achieved during those difficult times. This will increase the likelihood that you’ll rise up again if you happen upon painful times.

Y – Not many races happened in 2020 and had to run them virtually (including 6 virtual half marathons.) I have actively signed up for many races so far this year. In fact I have already run 7 races (including two half marathons).

: Feb 14 – Ft. Lauderdale HM

: Mar. 13 – Electric City 5m

: 2021- H2M HM (on a revised course)

: May 22 – 5k

: June 12 – 4m

Move toward your goals.

You need to set realistic goals in addition to a BIGGER (possibly unachievable) goal. This goal should be something that you can do regularly. Even if it seems like a small accomplishment, it can enable you to move toward the bigger goal that you want to accomplish. Your big goal may seem unreachable but it can help to focus on smaller tasks or activities related to that goal.

Y/N – In 2019, my goal was to run a full marathon and in 2020 to complete twelve half marathons (one each month). In 2021, not knowing when the Pandemic would end, I did not set any lofty goals. If anything, it would be to keep running and to reach 1000 miles for the year.

I signed up for this challenge and I log all my runs here!

I had hoped to have completed 500 miles at this point. But I’m behind (484.5). Maybe I’ll catch up by the end of the year. Maybe not….

Look for opportunities for self-discovery.

Runners can find that they have grown in some respect as a result of having faced adversity. Maybe by running fewer miles, they have fewer injuries. Maybe by not running any races, they have improved their form or pace. Maybe by not worrying about speed, they have added endurance.

Y/N – I had hoped to improve as a runner in 2021, as well. Not sure that has happened YET. Even after many years of running, I am still trying discover what I am good at. lol

first 5k in a long time (with no speedwork to prepare)…so no PR but much faster than expected.

a 4 mile PR!!! Maybe I can run fast again??

Keep things in perspective.

“How you think can play a significant part in how you feel.” Try to be a “glass half full” or optimistic kind of runner. It’s not the end of the world if you never PR again or you do not qualify for a prestigious race or you do not win any age group awards. Focus on what you CAN do.

Y – I have tried but it has not been easy as I tend to be a competitive person by nature.

Racing up a mountain? I CAN do that.

Accept change.

Accept that change is a part of life. As runners get older, they get slower. This is often hard to accept but it’s a fact. After a year of not racing, our finish times may have declined at an even faster rate. And even when in-person races return, they will probably be different.

Y – I have run many races with staggered starts, mask mandates, no water stops or post race refreshments or age group awards. However, racing with restrictions is better than not racing at all.

maybe a PW due to the heat and humidity but I finished with a smile

Maintain a hopeful outlook.

Expect that good things will happen to you in 2021. Visualize what you want, rather than worrying about what you fear.

Y – I may be afraid to run on trails. Instead I continue to walk on them and attempt longer and more difficult hikes. My reason for visiting the trails is for the views. In other words, I have had to get out of my comfort zone from time to time.

sometimes you have to take risks in order to get pictures of waterfalls…

or climb to the top of very high fire towers to see an amazing view…

Learn from your past.

What did last year’s negative experiences teach you? What strengths did you discover that helped you deal? Use them to make this year your best running year ever. (Best does not have to mean fastest, most races, most PRs, most awards.)

Y – I learned that consistently is key. I thought that I would only be motivated run if there were races and yet in 2020, I ran over 1000 miles with very few races on my schedule. I started out this year well (even in the coldest temps).

long runs (10 miles) each weekend no matter what the weather

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.

Happy Running! How are you doing so far in 2021? Did you set goals? If so, how is your progress going in meeting them? Please share.

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June 22, 2021 by Darlene

TT: Your Initials and Running

Let’s have some fun today.

What do your Initials say about your running?

D = Difficult

I know if it weren’t hard, everyone would do it.

But no matter what the distance is, it is “hard.” At least it is for me.

Of course, it is hard in different ways. Weather conditions? Injuries? Hills? Speed? Endurance?

I do not consider this a negative. My motto has been “I can do hard things.”

S = Social (I usually use my maiden name as my middle name)

It’s no secret that I prefer to run with other runners.

I like races. I like joining running groups whether they be in-person or virtual ones.

I have met so many wonderful person through running.

Running with others is just more fun (for me.)

C = Consistent

Unless I have a serious injury (like a broken bone), I have never taken time off.

For me, consistency is key to my running.

I always try to run 4 times a week. Three short runs and one long one.

And for quite awhile, my long run has been an easy 10 miles (even if I am not training for anything.)

I aim for 1000 miles a year. If I run consistently, I reach that number or am fairly close.

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.

Happy Running! So what do your initials say about your running? Please share.

runner-sig

June 18, 2021 by Darlene

FFF: Social Networking for Runners

Social Networking.

It is so time-consuming, how does a runner keep up?

So here’s my two sense:

1.Blogs

- Positives
  - A great way to make connections.
  - Commenting allows for feedback.
  - Link-ups exists to help attract traffic.
  - An alternative to a Running Journal or Log.
  - Share your race reviews and read others’.
- Negatives
  - Time consuming.
  - So many running blogs already exist.
  - Repetitive Content.
  - Non-experts posting expert advice.
- Me
  - I try to post a few times a week. But lately, my time has limited me to only link-ups.
  - I try to read those in the link-ups but not all and though I read them, I do not always comment on all those I read.
  - I read and comment from my phone which has its limitations.

2.InstaGram

- Positives
  - It’s quick and easy.
  - It’s happy for the most part: running selfies, scenery, etc.
  - Quick and easy to add up to 10 photos and hashtag as desired.
  - Can link to your blog, FB, Twitter.
- Negatives
  - Long posts and a zillion hashtags.
- Me
  - My favorite.
  - I post many of my pics here and a smaller selection on FB and even fewer on the blog.
  - I may “like” a lot of the posts but do not comment often.

3.Facebook

- Positives
  - A great way to stay up-to-date with those you do not see in person.
  - Can use for your personal profile as well as your blog.
  - Can be part of groups.
  - Tagging for sharing photos and posts.
  - Find out about events and products.
- Negatives
  - Too many posts with annoying memes and political views.
  - So many posts that you can easily miss those that are important.
  - Annoying Ads.
- Me
  - For my blog, I only link the posts to FB.
  - For my personal profile, I post selected photos for those friends I do not see in person.
  - My running friends and I have a group where we organize our weekly runs and race-cations.
  - I also belong to other groups that interest me i.e. hiking, waterfalls, etc.

4.Twitter

- Positives
  - Short and sweet.
- Negatives
  - Limited to a small number of characters.
  - Over used (how many times a day do some people have to tweet?)
- Me
  - I rarely go to Twitter unless directed to.
  - I only link my blog posts to my account. Otherwise I rarely post here.

5.Strava

- Positives
  - Can track your mileage and pace.
  - Can connect with and follow other runners.
  - Syncs to your devices such as Garmin.
  - Lots of challenges.
- Negatives
  - Another account!
  - Have to connect your tracking device to it or upload the content.
- Me
  - I rarely go to Strava unless I have to…ie a virtual race or challenge.
  - However, when I do use my GARMIN (races only), it syncs here.

No matter which one or ones you use, here’s some advice on how to deal:

- Be prepared for negative people.

Either ignore them or unfriend/follow them.

- Find the right balance.

Do not spend so much time on social media and neglect others things that may be more important.

- Know when to take a break.

Sometimes, you just have to shut it down for a few days or even weeks.

Happy Running! Which social media do you use? Which one is your favorite? Please share.

June 15, 2021 by Darlene

Rabbit Ramble 4 Mile Race Recap

June 12, 2021 – 9:00 am

Another in-person race. Very exciting.

Of course, FOMO has started and several of my running friends were going. Plus there was BRUNCH mentioned for after.

So I signed up!

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

I had done this race several years ago but in recent years, the dates conflicted with other things.

Due to COVID, they kept the 4 mile distance but changed the course. It was also re-scheduled from April to June.

This is not a popular distance but I have done quite a few races at this distance (Of course, not recently due to COVID).

my last one was in Feb. 2020.

My PR was 37:21 at the Polar Cap Run in 2017. Most of the 4 mile times were between 37 and 41 minutes.

I had no PR aspirations. Racing for me is just about running with my friends and doing my best while staying uninjured.

The in-person version of the race was only open to a limited number of participants due to COVID restrictions. The in-person race had a staggered, socially-distanced start to the race.

This year since the race was later in the year, the weather was more summer-like but nothing like last weekend’s record high temps. The wrench was that rain was in the forecast. I was hoping it would not be a washout.

I decided to wear my usual summer outfit:

skirt, tank with possible change of shirt and addition of diy arm sleeves

Of course, I had pizza for my race carb loading (yes I carb load for all races not matter the distance. lol)

The new course was supposedly similar to a previous 5k. My friend remarked that it was “mostly flat with a few not too bad hills.”

Race Day:

The race started at 9 am which was great since it would be a 30 minute drive from my house.

And finally the heat wave ended so I was not disappointed in the later start. Unfortunately I woke up to pouring rain!!! According to my weather app, it was supposed to end by rain start. Finger crossed that I did not have to run another race in the rain.

I changed from my tank to a tee and grabbed a rain jacket.

After my race breakfast of oatmeal and coffee, I left to carpool with Barbara whom I met around 7:45 am.

The race started and ended at Bozenkill Park on Gun Club Road in Altamont. We arrived around 8:05 to pick up our bibs. We parked in a big grassy (wet) parking lot and as soon as we arrived, the rain let up. Sherry arrived soon after.

We walked over to the pavilion to get our race packet

which was a cotton tee shirt, a bottle of water and a banana. This was the first race that there was no sign of anyone wearing a mask!? It didn’t bother me since I was vaccinated and we were outside. Still, it felt weird.

We returned to our car to stash our stuff and bumped in Judy. Now our group was complete . The others (Debbie, ~~Jan~~, Deirdre, Heidi & Chris) had decided to skip the race and cheer us on and then meet after for brunch.

It was perfect running temps (60s) but with the humidity and the sun peaking out, I had wished I had worn my tank.

Soon it was time to head to the start. As you can see, there was no official start line.

It was so nice to be running a shorter race because I bumped into many runners that I knew whom I had not seen in ages. I used run 5ks every weekend and you would see the same people.

It was supposed to be a staggered start. But it was more like people separated and then they just started running. I wasn’t in the front but had moved ahead of my friends because I was chatting with some other runners.

Mile 1:

I should mention that my legs should have been very rested. There was a lot of walking this past week but barely any running since last Saturday. As you can see above, the first mile had an uphill. It wasn’t that steep and I was able to run the whole thing. I’m sure I started out too fast but that’s what I always do.

Mile 2:

After the first mile, it was rather flat and just a little rolling. I was getting tired but tried to keep going until the water stop.

I actually wore my Garmin which I only wear for important races. But somehow, the settings changed because it showed me the time elapsed instead of my pace. Very confusing when I saw “13:xx”. I felt like I was definitely running fast and then I realized that it was NOT my pace showing.

During this mile, we entered a neighborhood. There was point where we ran in a cul-de-sac which gave me the opportunity to see and cheer my friends who were a little behind me.

Eventually I passed my running friends who were there to cheer us on. Definitely a morale booster.

Mile 3:

Finally there was a water stop. I was so glad to have a drink and to walk for awhile.

Of course I felt guilty for walking so long that I tried to speed up and make up some ground.

After the water stop, we left the neighborhood and headed back on the road toward the start.

I was surprised and elated that I passed my cheering running friends for the second time. They reminded me that bagels were awaiting me.

Mile 4:

Just trying to keep up the pace and finish strong. It was all a blur at this point. Short races are hard!!

I saw a runner who worked at our local Fleet Feet. She was ahead of me the whole race. But somehow I was able to pass her.

As we crossed the finish line, they pulled off the bottom of our bib so they could record the your finish time. I never looked at the clock but according to my Garmin, it was 36:38. It was very happy!

Not far behind me was Barbara.

Next came Sherry.

Then Judy raced this older guy and almost beat him.

We hung around for a while. They were giving 5-year age group awards. But since it was not chip timed, they had to figure things out manually, It was taking forever and our friends were waiting for us at the restaurant. So we left.

Actually got it in the mail a few days later.

The best part of the day was actually after the race. We met the others for brunch. I had chocolate milk and bagel, cream cheese n lox. We chatted and laughed for hours.

I found later that we all won age group awards.

Additional Race Reflections:

Positives:

Safety restrictions in place (outdoors, no food, no award ceremony).
Ample parking.
Well marked course.
Lots of familiar faces
Interesting course
Friendly volunteers
2 mile walk option.
Medals (3 deep) for 5 year age group awards
Weather
A real race.

Negatives:

Not chip timed
Cotton shirt
No post-race food (due to COVID?)

Would I recommend this race?

Yes.

It was well-organized. It will be even more fun when there are no COVID restrictions and it is scheduled in April when the weather is cooler.

Final Stats:

Probably the most consistent splits I’ve ever had.

Although it doesn’t look that way above.

I felt pretty strong the whole race. I didn’t push myself as hard as I could. I also did not do any speedwork to prepare for the race. So I was pretty satisfied with how things went.

Believe it or not. It was a PR!

Next Up:

???

No races on my schedule until September.

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.

Happy Running! Did you run or race this past weekend? How’s your weather? Any in-person races on your schedule yet? Please share.

June 8, 2021 by Darlene

Speed or Endurance?

Obviously you may want to be successful at both.

But which is more important to you? Speed or Endurance?

Which distance race do you prefer? 5k or Half Marathon/Marathon/Ultra?

I’ve struggled with this issue for years.

For a while, I think I preferred 5ks for the following reasons:

Minimal training required.
A myriad of 5k opportunities most weekends.
Race takes up little time in your schedule.
People of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities participate.
I got increasingly faster and often won age group awards.

Once I started running half marathons, I started to question my preference. I still ran both …

but I was enjoying the longer races more.

Why?

Long runs (and brunches) with friends.
Race-cations.
Bling.
Scenic courses.
Feeling of achievement.
No pressure of a specific finish time.

Maybe because I feel less successful at the 5k distance. The pandemic or getting older???

Whatever the reason, currently I feel less motivated to sign up for 5ks.

to run o

That is the question.

I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner) 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.

Happy Running! Which do you train for – speed or endurance or both? Which type of race do you prefer – short or long or both? Please share.

June 1, 2021 by Darlene

Miles on the Mohawk 10 Miler Race Recap

May 30, 2021 – 9:00 am

With most of the local races either cancelled or virtual, Albany Running Exchange has been scheduling COVID Safety Plan approved races. I completed a half marathon in November and in April.

: Helderberg 2 Hudson HM

In March I ran their five mile race. For this race, ARE used the same course as the five miler but added a full marathon and also a point-to-point 10 miler.

during the Electric 5 Miler in March

I was tempted to repeat the 5 miler to see if I could improve my time but I decided to challenge myself and run a 10 mile race.

It was advertised as “a very fast, point-to-point course.”

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

The logistics were also complicated for the 10 mile race. Either you parked at the start and got a ride back to your car after the race or you parked at the finish and got a ride to the start (or pay for the shuttle).

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

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

I have run several 10 mile races but none lately. The last one was in 2017. My slowest was in 2014: (1:49:55), my first one, and my PR was my third in the same year (1:38:45). All the others were somewhere in between. That would be my expectation for this race but on the slower end (like 1:45:00).

Usually on the weekends, I do run 10 miles. But this month I skipped a few in favor of a vacation and racing. It’s amazing how quickly the endurance that you built up leaves.

: May 2 – 3 m

: May 22 – 5k

I picked up my race packet on Thursday evening.

very nice half-zip

and carb loaded on Saturday evening (pasta instead of pizza) and debated about what to wear the next day. I was hoping that for a race on May 30 I would be wearing a skirt and tank. But no, summer temps had decided to leave us and rain was in the forecast as well. I reluctantly picked a long sleeve shirt and hoped that I wouldn’t be too warm. I also packed a few throwaways for before and dry clothes for after.

added gloves, gaiter and skipped the sunglasses

Race Day:

I got up around 6:00 am on Sunday morning and was on the road by 7:00 for my 30 minute hour drive to race parking.

The 10 mile race started near Mabee farm and ended at Mohawk Harbor.

I parked my car at Mohawk Harbor, the finish for all races (but the start for the 5m & 26.2 m races.) I had signed up for the shuttle so I wouldn’t have to worry about getting back to my car after the race. However, my friend Sherry offered to drive to the start if I would drive her back to her car after. I accepted so that I wouldn’t have deal with masking and walking to the shuttle.

I met Sherry and Jenn at 7:45, left my car in the Golub parking lot (1/4 mi from the race) and we drove to the start which was about 15 minutes away.

There was plenty of parking in the grassy lot.

It had rained all night, our shoes got soaked walking through the high grass.

It wasn’t raining yet…but it was COLD (in the 40s and very damp). We were shivering.

smiling because we thought that the rain would hold off until we finished the race….

We headed to bag check where one of our friends was volunteering. I reluctantly handed over my bag with dry warm clothing and waited under cover.

It started to rain but then stopped so I saved this beautiful outfit for after the race.

The COVID Safety plan was identical to all 7 live events ARE had held before this one: masks required throughout your time on-site. Once you started, you could lower your mask but did need to raise it unless within 6′ of others. The significantly staggered start (ie. 8 people every 10 seconds) allowed the race to spread out quickly.

I couldn’t wait to start. I was freezing. I was also hungry. It had been 3 hours since I had eaten breakfast. I decided to eat a Honey Stinger Wafflle (I know never eat something new on race day but it did work well.)

The 10 mile race started at 9 am. I was in wave 5 and before I knew it, it was time to move into the staging area.

Miles 1-3:

My wave started around 9:11 am.

As soon as I crossed the start line, I pulled down by gaiter.

The race began near Mabee Farm Historical site. The first mile headed west, mostly on Route 5S. We ran along the road and fairly soon connected with the Erie Canal Bike Path. In other words, the canal was on our right and most of the race was run on the path with water views.

During the first few miles, the rain was only a drizzle. In fact, I took off my gloves and actually got a little warm.

That didn’t last. Close to mile 3, it started to rain. And rain hard and harder. It never stopped.

My legs were feeling good. The scenery was pretty. The Mohawk river changed to being on the left.

The first water stop was a little after mile 3 at Kiwanis Park. This was my first walk break. I used my paper cup (as I did in my previous in-person cupless races). That waffle kept me going and so I decided to wait on my Gu,

Miles 4-6

Most of the race is a blur. It was raining hard. There were lots of puddles. I was feeling pretty strong.

someone (not me) smiling in the rain

In fact, a guy pulled up next to me and said “Your cadence is killing me.” Not sure what he meant. I do try to lift my feet and have a decent cadence, but he passed me by and left me in the dust!?

Around mile 5, I finally got hungry so I stopped to eat my Gu (trying to eat and run slowly) and walked again at the second water stop little before mile 6 at Lock 8 Park.

Miles 7-10

The course was pretty flat until the last mile or so. The path was narrow and you had to be careful because the lead marathoners needed to pass on the left. (They had started an hour earlier than the 10 milers.)

this is what it would have looked like on a blue sky day

The third and last water stop was around mile 8 at the SCCC Bike Path Parking Area. I walked again and took one more GU.

at mile 8.1

Around mile 9, some annoying hills appeared and during the last mile as well. Maybe there weren’t big hills and I was just getting tired. I tried to run up them but it was more like a slog. And the puddles were getting bigger (more like lakes). It didn’t really matter. I couldn’t get any wetter.

not me…but this is the view heading to Mohawk Harbor

We finished at Mohawk Harbor (the start and finish of the 5 mile and Marathon races).

I was so happy to have finished. Of course, at that point I ran as fast as I could.

two inspiring guys on this Memorial Day weekend.

Unfortunately once you stopped running, you were freezing and by the time I finished, they had run out of foil blankets.

So I grabbed my medal and headed to bag check to retrieve some clothes.

I found Jenn and Sherry. Both did well (Jenn had a big PR).

We grabbed our lunches and headed in the pouring rain to my car.

There was a band, beer, food, etc. So much planning goes into a race especially one during the Pandemic. Such a shame to have such awful weather conditions.

Well, I turned on the heated seats in my car and drove Sherry back to her car at the race start.

Then I spent a lot of time in a hot shower and then eating my race lunch (sandwich, chips, brownie, apple) in front of my fire place.

Ugh! On May 30? Can you believe it?

Additional Race Reflections:

This was a first annual race. Most of the other local races are still cancelled so this racing company has been trying to hold a few races. I am so glad they are. It was so fun to be out there and soak up the racing atmosphere again (even in the rain).

I wasn’t expecting to feel as good as I did. Maybe it was the cold temps.

Positives:

Safety restrictions in place (staggered starts).
Ample parking at the start and finish.
Several distances: 10 mile, 5 mile, marathon
Real restrooms at Mabee Farm
Bag check for 10 milers
Well marked course.
Varied scenery including river views
Lots of course marshals (even in the rain).
Shuttle to the start (if needed).
A real race.
Well organized.
A lot of pre-race information.
Familiar faces (under the masks)
Decent Post-race food.
Nice half-zip shirt as swag.
Cool medal.
Free Beer (in Druthers)
Free photos (start, mile 8.1 and finish)
A real race.

the middle turns and shows your distance

Negatives:

Cupless water stops
Cold temps
Rain!

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes.

It was super well-organized. Special attention was paid to EVERY detail. It will be even more fun when there are no COVID restrictions and the weather conditions are nicer.

Final Stats:

633 in the 10 mile race

No age group award. (even if I had a PR)

Splits:

Garmin= 1:39:20

Walking definitely slowed down my pace:

water stop, Gu, water stop, water stop/Gu, hills – lol

All in all, I was very happy with how I ran the race. I probably ran the first 3 miles too fast but that’s how I usually race. lol

Not expecting a PR and faster than I thought I would do. Happy Camper!

Next Up:

Rabbit Ramble – June 12. 2021

A 4 miler in two weeks and then ???

There are not many races scheduled before the fall.

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.

Happy Running! Have run a real race yet? If so, how did go? Are you planning to run one? Please share.

May 25, 2021 by Darlene

2021 Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k Race Recap

May 22, 2021 – 10:00 am

Every year, I plan to sign up for the 10k and then I chicken out.

10K

I know that the hills would be good training but… the 5k is an out and back and mostly flat.

5k – but not as flat as it looks (some rolling hills)

This year, due to COVID, the 10K race was only virtual. So I had no choice and registered for the 5k. I planned to run 7 hilly miles after (to prepare for a 10 mile race the week after).

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

This small race in the country has always been one of my favorite races. I have run it for the five years straight (2013-18) and enjoyed it each time. (I was out of town in 2019 and it was cancelled in 2020). It was always well-organized and had great food – the usual food but also chili and homemade muffins & cookies (including gluten free ones).

And there was chocolate milk, fresh from the dairy. (You know how I LOVE chocolate milk post-race.)

Plus, I also have won a homemade pie as first in my age group for the past five years. 28:56, 28:01, 27:54, 27:32, 27:01. Yes, it seems that I was getting faster but I haven’t run this race since 2018.

Lately I don’t feel very fast. In fact, I was highly doubtful that I could finish under 30 minutes.

my most recent 5k – 30:36 (Dec. 2020)

The in-person version of the race was only open to a limited number of participants due to COVID restrictions. To keep the number of people on site down for safety reasons, no spectators were able to join this year. The in-person 5k had a staggered, socially-distanced start to the race.

Packet pick-up was a drive by the night before. But since I lived so far away, I planned to pick mine up the morning of the race.

Again the weather was tricky. What to wear? I was brave the first two years and wore a skirt, a baseball cap and no gloves. It was April, right? Then the next three years, it was cold and I resorted to capris.

This year since the race was later in the year, the weather was more summer-like. In fact maybe too warm. I decided to wear:

one of my oldest tanks and skirts.

Of course, I had pizza for my race carb loading (yes I carb load even for 5ks. lol)

Race Day:

The race started at 10 am which was great since it would be an hour drive from my house.

After my race breakfast of oatmeal and coffee, I left my house around 8 am. It was already 75 degrees and humid. Uh oh!

I got to the race early (around 9 am) and found a parking spot in a grassy field next to the church. The race started at the church in the town of Bacon Hill, a small farming town with awesome scenery. (It reminded me of Vermont.)

these pics are from other years…everything still looked the same)

So as soon as I arrived, I picked up my shirt and bib and then went back to my car to drop off my shirt.

I wasn’t sure that I would know anyone at this race since most of the runners that I usually run this race with were not coming.

I stopped by the timing truck to say hello to my former FTC coach who usually asks me if I was going to PR. But he wasn’t there. No pressure 🙂

I walked around a bit scouting out the logistics (and fighting off the bugs).

But I did bump into a few runners that I knew and we hung out chatting. Luckily there was bug spray available since the bugs were pretty annoying.

There was music playing and a little over 100 runners. Much fewer than usual because there was a virtual option for both the 5k and 10k.

Eventually at 9:45, they directed us to our corrals. There were labelled by finish time. I think I headed to corral 4 (25-27 minutes). That was very optimistic but in that corral, I noticed some very fast runners and some slower ones. Obviously it didn’t matter since there were no awards and the race was chip timed.

Did I mention that it was HOT and humid? Usually this race is held in April hence the late start time.

I was sweating already and couldn’t wait to get rid of my mask.

Miles 1-1.5

The pastor read a prayer, the church bells rang and we were off.

I threw my mask in a trash can (since they would giving us another mask as we finished).

The 5k was an out and back.

I decided to go out fast. I always have positive splits so why try not to. Unfortunately my fast now is not what it used to be (to some I was never fast and to others, I still am fast. Remember pace is so individual.)

I laughed. They meant the turtles in the pond on the left, I was thinking “slower runners.”

The course wasn’t as flat as the map showed. The hills were rolling throughout but not that bad. Even I could run up them.

I loved all the signs along the route. Many of them were riddles. I wish I could remember them but they were a nice distraction.

the pics are from a previous year but the signs were similar

This one was my favorite:

14002247934_c17e330207_z

My legs really protested my attempt for speed. I felt my 5k racing lay-off.

There were no volunteers on the course calling out times. There were mile markers and a few scattered volunteers cheering on the runners.

A little past the one mile marker, there was a water stop. A real one with volunteers handing out water. I walked for a while (too long) here since I was very hot and thirsty.

Mile 1.5-3.1:

Eventually we turned around and headed back…. I realized quickly that I had gone out too fast. I could not keep up that pace (I was wearing my Garmin but I never looked at it until the race was over.)

I did get a breather since my left shoe got untied (yes, I double knotted it.)

I continued running at what seemed a much slower pace. Now I felt a blister forming on my right foot (or maybe both feet!?)

And then the other shoe got untied. Grrr.

Finally there was one mile to go and I couldn’t wait to finish and get that chocolate milk.

the finish line is right next to the cemetery – obviously not from this year (look at the clothes!

As I approached the finish line, I sprinted as fast as I could (and stopped my watch.)

The clock said: 30:xx but my watch said 28:20! I was happily surprised at my time.

I immediately grabbed a mask and made a bee line for the chocolate milk.

nope. this year, they gave you a bottle.

A volunteer handed everyone a bag of home baked cookies. Not the same selection of refreshment as in pre-Pandemic years.

Hey, a in-person race!! Not complaining!!

both the milk and the cookies were yummy!

I never checked the results since there were no age group awards.

I changed my shoes and shirt and waited for some friends to finish.

Then I decided to try to run 7 additional miles to be prepared the next week’s 20 mile race.

I headed out on the 10K course (which was marked for the virtual race.) Pretty scenery but tough. It was hot and still humid plus those blisters! I threw in the towel after 3 miles.

Instead of torturing myself, I opted to explore some local trails to get in the miles.

Dionondahowa Falls

Hudson Crossings Park Trails

Ten miles on the legs for the day….even though most were not done by running.

As they say “The hay is in the barn.”

Additional Race Reflections:

Positives:

Safety restrictions in place (staggered starts).
Ample parking.
Well marked course.
Beautiful countryside scenerym
Chocolate milk and homemade cookies as post-race refreshments.
Super friendly volunteers
Virtual option.
A real race.

Negatives:

No Spectators (due to COVID).
No 10K option (due to COVID).
Few food options (due to COVID).
No age group awards.
Cotton race shirt.
Late start time.
Warm and humid temps.
Untied shoes (2x)
Lack of speed work (my fault).
Bib chip didn’t register.

Would I recommend this race?

Yes.

It was super well-organized. Special attention was paid to EVERY detail. It will be even more fun when there are no COVID restrictions and it is scheduled in April when the weather is cooler.

Final Stats:

this was probably a PW for this race but I was happy to show a little speed especially with the humidity

you can see that water stop and shoe tying stops

But I was thrilled with my time. I wasn’t expecting much. I did exactly what I had planned. Just run. I wasn’t ever tired so I definitely think I could have run faster. But there didn’t seem to be a reason to. No age group award. I was just running for me and because it makes me feel good to race.

All in all, I loved this race. I will definitely do it again…maybe even the 10K someday.

On a side note:

My chip never recorded my time. This has happened before with this type of chip (due to hanging the bib from my belt.) I contacted the timing company. No biggie since there were no awards. They added my Garmin time to the results the next day (I’m pretty sure my finish time was after this …)