Tuesdays on the run

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Fall Running/Racing Plans

It’s Tuesday so I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

Today’s Topic is: Fall Running Plans

Fall in the NE is a great time to run. It is cooler and the foliage views are awesome.

I normally have quite a few favorite races on my schedule but this fall, five weekends will be taken up by race-cations to Montreal and France so I will miss some of my favorite races.

Not complaining. I can run them next year.

So here are the races that I am looking forward to this fall – 3 half marathons and a 15K

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Sept 23, 2018

This is my first race as a Rock n Blogger as well as my first international race. I am running 5k AND the half with a few local friends and I hope to meet some other bloggers there.

Oct. 14, 2018 20K not a half but close enough

This is a dream come true. As a former French teacher, I’ve always wanted to run a race in Paris and now I am.  The race comes at the end of a vacation in Sanguinet (Bordeaux region.)

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A local 15K that I always try to run.

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Another new race and my last half marathon for 2018. A great way to run off all that turkey. And I will running with running buddy Alyssa. (We haven’t raced together in a long time.)

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

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Happy Running! Which fall races are you looking forward to??

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August Report Card

Good-bye August Hello September

This month was very rainy and humid. Glad it’s over.

Here’s how the month went:

Weekday Runs:

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

I ran a few times while on working in Liverpool and while working in NYC. Otherwise I ran locally. My weekday runs were usually around 3 miles (occasionally more and occasionally less). Heat, humidity and rain made it tough to get it done.

Long Runs:

Boating, friends and work have sometimes made it tough to get in my weekend long runs. The month started out well but then I skipped the weekend that I was in NYC.  No excuses about not having a big race on my schedule. My half is in 3 weeks.

Total Mileage:

I ran 75 miles so far this month. At least it was an improvement over last month. I am still behind on my 1000 mile yearly goal. But the important thing is that I am feeling healthy so all is good.

to get to1000, I need to run 84 miles each month

Races:

I tentatively had several races on my schedule this month. Race the Train and its replacement were cancelled. So I decided to run Governor’s Island 5k in NYC and the after work Hump Day 5K.  Governor’s Island 5k was cancelled the day of. Hump Day 5k was a tough one but at least I won my age group.

Cross Training:

Due to my work schedule, I only played tennis outdoors once this month during the week but I did play during my weekend at Schroon River.

I also worked out once at the gym. (I just used the arm machines.)

I did walk at lunch once or twice. I also went for walks in the park after dinner when I was working in Liverpool. Of course, I got a lot of steps in during my time in NYC.

Other News:

Despite all my work travel, I was able to squeeze in some friend and hubby time. 

annual day at the race track

The hubby and I took our boat out on the lake on the weekends that I was in town.

I was away two weekends. The first one to meet up up with my friend Anna who was visiting from Russia. We were supposed to run a race together. But that didn’t happen but we still had lots of fun.

The second was for my monthly gathering with the tennis ladies which was held at a house on Schroon River. This is a annual event and always a great time. I did two hikes, a nature walk and played tennis. Normally I would stay the whole weekend but I needed to run and pack for trip to NYC (yes again!) the next day.n

I also got to meet up with a fellow runner/blogger while I was in NYC. We ran, talked, walked, took pics and ate ice cream together. I can’t wait to do it again.

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

Half Marathon #32 is September 23 and 20K is October 14.

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

  • 9-08-18 – Malta 5k or Teal 5k 9-9-18??
  • 9-15-18 – ADK 5k or 9-16-18 – Palio 5K or Dunkin Run??
  • 9-22-18 – RnR Montreal 5k
  • 9-23-18 – RnR Montreal Half Marathon
  • 9-29-18 – Governors Island 5k
  • 10-14-18 – Les 20km de Paris

I am linking to Deb at DebRuns for herAugust Race Linkup:

No monthly goals.

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

I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

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

I’d say overall a B+

Despite the work travel, I did my best to get in my weekday runs in. But I skipped one weekend long run. I did play tennis a few times and went to the gym maybe once. I ran only ONE race but not my fault that several were cancelled. I did win my age group in the only one I ran.

I’m not giving myself a lower grade because hey, it is summer and quite a hot and humid one.  But I better get my a$$ in gear if I want to run my fall half marathons pain-free.

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

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

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Summer Bucket List Update

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

Today’s topic is: Summer Running Goals Update

Wow! Where did the summer go??

I don’t make running goals. But back in June, at the beginning of the summer, I listed 5 things that I wanted to do this summer. I hope I still have time to complete them all:

1. Go Hiking

2. Play Tennis

3. Eat in an Outdoor Restaurant

4. Go to the Race Track

5. Run a New Race

So here’s how it is going so far:

1. I have not really gone hiking yet. I did go on a walk on a trail to a waterfall.  But I hope before summer’s end to go on a real hike in the Adirondacks.

Shelving Rock Falls

2. I did play tennis on several Tuesdays after work.  I also played during a getaway weekend in July. I have another one planned for this coming weekend.

tennis in CT.

3. I did eat outdoors at a local restaurant and one overlooking the Mohawk River as well as one overlooking Lake George.

4. My friend and I did get to have breakfast at the Saratoga Race Track and then stay for the races.

5. I ran one new race, the Adirondack 15K Race to the Lakes and it was lots of fun. I had also planned to run the Governor’s Island 5K but it was cancelled.

So not a bad summer considering all the traveling I have had to do for work.  I hope to add some more fun activities next summer like SUP, kayaking, outdoor yoga, trail running, etc.

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

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Happy Running! What was your summer bucket list? Did you do any of these activities? Which ones? Did you make running goals? If so, where do you stand with those?

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Governors Island 5k Recap of the Race That Wasn’t

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August 11, 2018 – 9:00 am

I was planning to race today as I usually do but this race was not the one on my plan. I usually run the HILLY Camp Chingachgook Challenge 10K.

After I ran a HILLY 15k back at the end of June, I was planning to switch and run the Half Marathon.

However, my friend Anna from Russia saved the day.  She informed me that she was coming to the US and would be in NYC that same weekend.

You wouldn’t expect me to go to NYC and not a race, would you?  Actually, it was Anna’s idea not mine. She wanted to run a race with me again and this race was happening on Saturday.

I’ve visited Governor’s Island once and I’ve always wanted to run there.

So we both registered even though I didn’t know much about the race besides what was on the website:

THE RACE – This great midsummer’s race features a great course with world class views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Statue of Liberty, starts off with a ferry ride and features a great post-race party.

COURSE – We have an exciting new course planned that improves on the one we used last year. The 5K is one loop and the 10K is two loops.

AMENITIES – Bag check and toilets will be provided. Water and Gatorade will be available on the course, and bagels, spreads, fresh fruit and more will make up the usual great NYCRUNS post race spread to greet you at the finish line. Free finish line photos and video will be available on the results page. The giveaway for this race will be a great tech t-shirt*. *Sizes are guaranteed – if we don’t have your size at the race, email theteam@nycruns.com within two days of the race and we’ll ship your shirt to you a few weeks later.

RESULTS, AWARDS, FINISH LINE PHOTOS & VIDEO – Awards will be given to the top three male and female runners overall in each race. Age group awards in the 5K will be awarded to the top three in each the following age groups: 9 and under, 10-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 and 70 and over. Finish line photos and video will also be available on the results page.

DIRECTIONS – There’s only one way to get to the island – the Governors Island ferry, and your ferry ride is included in your race registration.  You must arrive at the Battery Maritime Building at 10 South St. no later than 7:30 AM to check in and you must have your race bib.  The 4,5, R, and 1 trains are closest to the ferry terminal.

This was the same group that organized the Brooklyn Ice Cream Social 5k that I ran back in June and that was well-organized. So I was pretty psyched for the race.

I couldn’t arrive in NYC until Friday night so Anna was supposed to pick up our race packets. Then she couldn’t get an early train so I changed my train, rushed to Paragon Sports (on the other side of the city) and made it just in time.

I then met Anna at the train station, walked to our hotel, and made plans on how to get to the ferry and to the race. Then we went out and explored the city.

We walked around Bryant Park, had drinks and dinner in Rockefeller Center and then walked around some more

Of course we went to bed too late but I hadn’t seen her in almost 2 years so lots to chat about.

rain was predicted so I brought a jacket and umbrella along

I picked out my outfit the night before.  I planned to wear my Skirt Sports race favorites – gym girl ultra skirt which is a perfect length for running and its pockets hold my fuel and other essentials AND wonder girl tank, also with a pocket (in the cleavage) and a very stylish comfy fit. (Use my code 128card to get 15% off these other Skirt Sports items.)

After a late night and not much sleep, I was glad that we decided on an Uber to get to the ferry rather than relying on the subway schedule. I ate my usual hotel breakfast (oatmeal & coffee) in the hotel room and left later than I would have liked but arrived to the 7:30 ferry (the last one!) with plenty of time to spare.

waiting to board the ferry – no rain yet…

The ferry ride was short and sweet. The views were pretty even with the cloud cover.

As we arrived on the island, it started to rain.

pretty ominous

But just drizzling.  We hoped that it would stay that way.

But it didn’t. Shortly after we arrived, we started to hear thunder and then see lightning. Everyone ran for cover as soon as the skies opened up.

There were little houses with screened in porches. We squeezed into the first one we saw.

It was raining so hard and so windy that it was raining actually sideways.  We put our umbrella up in front of the screen to stay dry. We stayed there listening the thunder for quite awhile until we started to see runners heading back to the ferry.

They told us that it was too dangerous and to seek shelter in the ferry building.

Then we got the bad news.  THE RACE WAS CANCELLED!!!

And back on the ferry all the runners went.

Boo!!!

Of course by that point the rain had let up but storms were predicted to come and go.

We were bummed but since the rain had now stopped, we decided to make the best of the day. We thought about heading back to the hotel to change our clothes but why waste the time.  My racing outfit was perfectly suitable and comfortable for all our planned activities…until dinner.  (Thank you, Skirt Sports.)

First we headed to the Brooklyn Bridge and We walked/ran over it and then back.

Then we had brunch at restaurant along the water at the South Street Seaport. Then we took a tram to visit Roosevelt Island where it rained on and off.

Finally it was time for dinner and to change out of our running clothes.

Since we still had not run together, we got up the next morning and walked to Central Park so we could go for a run. We bumped into runners competing in a 15 mile race and had a nice leisurely 5k run, followed by breakfast.

So there was no race and it was sad.  There is nothing you can do about the weather.

However, I was hoping for a refund. $40 for me and $50 for Anna or at least a credit.

Nope, the race is re-scheduled for September 29. (I do understand that money was already spent on this race.) Unfortunately, I doubt that I can afford to go back then and Anna lives in Moscow.  😦

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

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

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Happy Running! How is your running going this summer? Any recent races? Ever had a race cancelled due to weather?

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How Has Running Changed Me?

It’s Tuesday so I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

Today’s Topic is: How Has Running Changed You? (Sorry I’m a week early.)

As I commented on another blogger’s post on this topic, it wasn’t actually running that changed me, it was tennis.

  • Tennis was the first sport that I ever participated in (and I was in my 40’s)
  • Tennis was the first sport that I ever competed in. I played on several teams and some even qualified for State and National competitions.

  • I bought many different tennis outfits and tennis sneakers.

  • I played tennis almost everyday.
  • I thought and talked about tennis constantly.
  • I took tennis lessons and participated in tennis clinics so that I could become a better tennis player.

  • I watched the Pros play in person and on TV.

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  • My closest friends were those that I have met while playing tennis.

  • I took many tennis vacations.

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  • My tennis friends and I did many things together besides playing tennis.

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  • Tennis kept me active, healthy and physically fit.
  • Tennis gave me confidence.
  • Tennis made me feel younger.
  • My tennis friends talked me into becoming a runner.

So you can probably see a lot of similarities about how running may have changed my life. In fact, I can just substitute the word running above.

I now spend a lot (too much) money on racing, running clothes and shoes. I run often and talk about running to anyone who will listen. I take race-cations and sign up for running groups to improve my running. I have awesome friends that I have met through running.

How is running different from tennis and how has my life changed differently by becoming a runner?

  • I have a blog and as a result, I have a lot of virtual running friends (and even have met some in person).

blogger meet-up in Panama City, FL

  • I have a lot more flexibility in my active life. I can decide where and when I run and whom I run with.

running after work in Liverpool, NY

  • I set my own individual goals. My running goal or challenge does not impact anyone else.

5k PR

  • I am compared to other runners who are the same age. This has helped me feel successful and proud.

getting my 1st place medal from the race founder, Al Goldstein

  • I feel supported by other runners.

  • Even a bad run can have positive effects on my mood or day.

I am so grateful to tennis because it introduced me to running.

And I can’t imagine my life without running.

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

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Happy Running! How has running changed you?

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Silks and Satins 5K Race Recap

July 21, 2018 – 8:00 am

When I first started running, this race was one of my favorite 5ks. I ran it in 2008, 2009, 2010.

in 2008 – my first year of running

in 2010, this is where I met AJH for the first time (I was wearing shorts back then.)

It’s funny how things have changed. AJH was trying to convince me to run a longer race. Since then I have completed 31 half marathons.

My 5k time back in 2010 was 29:34.

After 5 years off (from this race), I ran it again in 2015. And my time was 28:41. So things hadn’t changed that much (but I started to wear running skirts instead of shorts).

I enjoyed this race so much that I re-added to my summer racing list and ran it again in 2016 and 2017, lowering my finish time each year. (28:27, 27:37)

WouldI again this year???

Here is the map for the course that I ran the past 3 years:

15 turns in this course!!

Due to construction, it was changed slightly this year: The finish line was changed to 80 yards west on George St. so the start was re-located to 80 yards south on East Ave.

The race started at 8 am. That meant that I had to get up at 5:30. (And I was out late with friends the previous evening.)

This being the opening weekend of the Saratoga Flat Track, believe it or not there was already a lot of traffic at 7 am. I was glad to have left early and found parking in a nearby lot. (I was careful this year to park in the correct lot.  Three years ago, I almost got towed.)

unisex shirt than even a XS was too big 😦 We did get free tickets to the track which I plan to use later in the summer!!!

The new pick-up area was moved to behind the barn on the corner of Case & Mitchell, not too far from the old location. I picked up my bib and shirt and then went back to my car and watched the horses work out for a bit.

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There were close to 1000 runners at this race. So I bumped into quite a few familiar faces: Sue, my Shape & Brooklyn half roommate, Holly and Nancy from the Freihofer’s group and Judy, my current Sat. runny buddy., Patrick, the director for this race and coach for my running groups, to name a few.

The weather was warm … around 70 at the start and HUMID but not quite as warm as it has been in past weeks.. I just hung around and chatted until it was time to head to the start.  I continued to hang out and chat with Nancy, Holly and Judy and should have lined up closer to the start line since it wasn’t chip-timed. But I just wasn’t paying attention or cared at the time.

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And so we were off.

pic from the Saratogian

 

Nancy is super fast and Holly is fast as well.  Nancy took off and just disappeared, I tried to keep Holly in my sight during the first mile but then I lost her.  I wasn’t sure if she was ahead or behind.  I lost track of Judy, as well, who was behind me.

It seemed like everyone was passing me by…because they were. But as usual, my first mile was too fast. My plan was to have negative splits and but that never happened.

By the second mile, I was starting to struggle with my breathing.

It was warm but I have run in higher temps.  It was the HUMIDITY.  And it was sucking the life out of me.

nothing exciting about the course…just around the neighborhood – pic from the Saratogian

I tried to run in the shade when there was shade and run the tangents (all 15 of them). I had planned to walk at the one water stop at the halfway point but I was looking ahead at the tangent and totally missed it because it was on the other side.

And as it turned out, my legs were tired, I was thirsty and I probably should have walked a little to catch my breath.  I wasn’t looking at my Garmin at all but I could tell that I was getting slower at each mile.

pic from the Daily Gazette

By mile 3, I was fading.  I think I say this during every 5k race recap.  I guess that means that I should either start out slower or do speed drills to build up my endurance.

Anyway, I tried to get up enough energy to sprint through the finish line.

I crossed at 27:XX (Gun time).

It was actually a few seconds faster than last year which was shocking.

Judy & I – sweaty but happy

Then I searched for my friends and found them on the food line.

Several years ago, the refreshments consisted of bagels & chocolate milk. This year like last year, there was only watermelon & bananas. I had several pieces of watermelon, a banana and a granola bar.  And I felt much better.

pic from the Saratogian

They posted the results pretty quickly. I was shocked that I won in my NEW age group. Unfortunately, Holly was 5th but Nancy and Judy came in 2nd in their age groups.

While waiting for the awards ceremony, I bumped into more runners that I knew (Michele, Judy) and they all got awards, as well.

I got a nice medal. It always feels great when you win an award.

All in all, this was a fun race. Besides all the turns, the race course is pretty flat. It is well-organized. Plus it raises money for a great cause (Special Olympics). So I plan to run this race again next summer.

Splits:

mile 1- 8:27
mile 2 – 8:46
mile 3 – 9:12
.14 – 7:44

27:28 (Garmin time)

positive splits again!!!

I’m a sucker for swag and anything Central Park:

I get a tech shirt and an awesome medal.

So this race will count but I will do the real thing in August when I am actually in Central Park.

Since this was Saturday and I usually do my long run on Saturdays, I had planned on adding 6 more miles after the race.  But I was too hot and tired so instead I spent the day on our boat.

post race relaxing

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

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

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Happy Running! How is your running going this summer? Any recent races?

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Running on Vacation

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

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

Today’s topic is: Running on Vacation

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And my answer is OF COURSE!!

Some folks may go on vacation for a break in their training cycle or just to run a race. Some may only run during vacation because they are training for a big race and it’s on their plan.

I ALWAYS make sure I run when I am on vacation.  It’s kinda a priority for me.  I would have fun if I didn’t run but running makes it an even better vacation for me.

In this post I’ll talk about my last vacation – my annual TENNIS vacation in Naples Florida.

The schedule was that every morning we play doubles for 1.5 hours and then have a tennis lesson for 1.5 hours or vice versa.

Did I run?

Yes! I made it a priority to do so.

In order to run, I might skip part of the doubles play and run.  After my run, I would change my clothes and join them to play. After playing we would have our lesson.

After the first 2 days, I realized that it was faster to run in my tennis clothes and have someone bring my racket & shoes to the court. I would do that sometimes or just play tennis in my running clothes.

Did I run often?

Yes! 6 times.

  • Friday before tennis- 3.5 miles
  • Saturday before tennis – 3 miles
  • Sunday – 5k race
  • Monday before tennis – 3 miles
  • Tuesday before tennis – 3 miles
  • Wednesday before tennis – 6.5K (My birthday run)

I did not run on the day we arrived or the day we left.

in Naples, FL

Were they good runs?

Nope.  None were.

It was very humid on the first few runs and of course, much warmer than I was used to.  Then it got even warmer.  It was tough to breathe and run.  My running got to be walking/running and slower and slower.

I also found for the first time that I was missing tennis.  Everyone else was playing tennis. I wanted to be with them And I wanted to be warmed up before our lesson.

In past years, I just ran fewer miles. This year I either started out running earlier or if it wasn’t a lesson, I arrived at tennis later (and rotated into the doubles).

Did I enjoy my runs?

Yes. Immensely.

I loved the scenery – the trees, flowers,etc.  I loved the sunshine and even the heat.

During each run I took a different route. I ran around the neighborhoods of World Tennis Center (WTC).  I ran around the pool area and tennis courts.  I ran outside the WTC along the main road in one direction and then another day in the other direction.

What will I do differently next year?

I could get up earlier.  But it’s hard when you go out to dinner late and you are hanging out with friends after that.

I could run every other day. But you never know in Florida when it will rain. You have to take advantage of the beautiful weather.

I could just play tennis but I would have been upset with myself for NOT running.

I could run after tennis but I know I would have been too tired and would be making others wait for me to go to the beach.

So next year, I will probably do nothing different from this year.

Views from my Naples runs:

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one of the bridges along the main road

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path at WTC to the tennis courts

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another bridge on the main road

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in WTC

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our villa in WTC

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one more bridge along the main road

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the main road in the other direction

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more views of WTC

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thought the SLOW sign was meaningful

Suggestions for running on vacation:

  • Be prepared.  Bring clothes for all weather conditions.
  • Schedule your runs. If you leave it to chance, it won’t happen.
  • Be flexible.  Sometimes other persons’ needs or desires will come before your running.
  • Find a scenic route.  Pretty views make all the difference.
  • Lower your expectations. Distance & speed goals will probably not happen.
  • Register for a race in the area, if possible. Then you will definitely run.
  • Have fun.

vacation 5k

I’m also linking this post with Susie and Rachel and Debbie and Lora for the Running Coaches’ Corner.

Happy Running! Do you always run on vacation? Would you run on vacation even if it weren’t part of your training plan?

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Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k Recap

The race begins at SUNY Adirondack, works its way to the Warren County Bikepath and ends at Battle Field Park in Lake George. Rolling course with a long down hill finish. 

This is the first year for this 15k race.  It replaces one of my favorite races – Adirondack Distance Run (10 miler).  That was the one that starts in Lake George Village and ends in a park on the lake next to the marina where we keep our boat.

I was very disappointed that they cancelled this race. (After 40 years, they decided that it was dangerous to run on the road.)

My friend Sue and I have had many running adventures together:

Since Sue was the organizer of this new race, I felt that I should at least run it the first year.

In preparation for this race, I actually got in some long weekend runs.

The biggest challenge probably would be the hills. I knew that it would be hilly but I wasn’t sure how hilly. And we all know that I do not train on hills or do hill repeats. (Hopefully, there would be some muscle memory from those Prospect Park hills a few weeks ago.)

We have had some perfect racing weather but for this race, the forecast was for HOT. I mean, real hot!

and oppressively humid

Anyway, I had no goals besides finishing unhurt.  I haven’t run many 15ks and my PR is from 2015 (1:31:25) but with the hot weather, I planned to be cautious.

There were four water stops along the route: one at mile 2 (which served runners on the way in and out) and then along the bike path at approximately miles 4.2, 6.2  and 8. I would be stopping at each one and hoped that this would be enough.

Due to work, rain and other factors, I had not run since Tuesday.  Fresh legs is always good, right?

So what to wear?  As little as possible. I even skipped my usual compression socks.

the shirt was in honor of the Distance Run that this race replaced,

My new running shoes went on their maiden voyage (because they matched lol)

The race started at 8 am which seemed fine until this heat wave arrived. I left around 6:15 am since I had over an hour drive. The race began at a college so there were real bathrooms and comfortable places to hang out before the race.

In lieu of a medal, each runner received a car magnet and a tech shirt (blue must be the color of the year).

None of my close running friends were running the race but I was surprised at how many runners I did know.  I hung out with them until the race began.

Yes, that was the start line. No chip timing for this race.

I lined up with some friends but unfortunately not as close to the start as I should have.

So here’s how the race went: (The photos are courtesy D. Yeaton)

Miles 1-3: 9:30, 9:38, 9:56

I had no idea what the course was like.  There was no elevation chart and that was probably a good thing. As I mentioned, I expected hills. I mean, it’s the Adirondacks so it is hilly everywhere.

One of the volunteers we passed said “Enjoy the roller coaster!”  Yup, huge hills…up and down.  Just past the water stop at mile 2, you turned around and repeated those crazy hills.

I started slowly and tried to run up them.  After two hills, I realized that that was a mistake, I just walked up them.  No sense killing my legs. I ran most of the race around the same women.  Piggybacking with them. They ran slowly and passed me on the hills and I got closer to them on the downhill and sometimes even passed them.

Miles 4-6: 10:00, 9:59,11:29

After the first 5K, we headed to the bike path. The steep hills disappeared but it was a steady incline.  I kept hoping for a downhill but it never happened (until mile 7). At least, most of the path was shady.

At the next water stop, I decided to take a GU.  Well, see my time for that mile, this was a GU disaster. It was so warm that the gel had melted and when I opened the package, it dripped all over my hands, down my leg and onto my shoe.  And it was chocolate!! You get the picture.  I had to pour several cups of water on myself to wash it off and I, of course, wasted some time. Plus, I was now still a sticky mess.

The hills on miles 1-3, definitely tired me out.  My plan changed from just walking at the water stops to walking up the hills to finally just walking whenever my legs were too tired to run.  That seemed to be very often.  Still I was keeping up with the same ladies.  Perhaps I was running fast when I was actually running.

Miles 7-9.4 –10:29,  9:58, 9:42 (.4 – 8:15)

The rest of the race on the bike path and the part of the path that went downhill right into Lake George Village (opposite the lake).  Finally running downhill!! Though, it seemed too little, too late to make up for the slow middle miles.

I did the best I could to sprint on my blistered feet (yes, of course, I got blisters.)

The path to the finish line was on grass – soft but difficult to run fast on.

This is the only finish line pic – guess I was running too fast for the photographer LOL

I crossed officially at 1:33:54  (1:33:15 Garmin Time) and I was happy.  I expected worse from this course and the weather.

Refreshments included watermelon, bananas, home made cake, ice cream provided by Ben & Jerry’s, water and Gatorade.

I headed right for the watermelon and then the ice cream.

There was no formal Awards Ceremony. Instead there was an Awards table next to the Finish Line where 5 year age graded award winners could pick up their medals.

My friend Maureen won in my former age group and I came in (a distant ) second in mine.

We then all headed to lake to soak our feet in the cold water  (I wished I had used the bag check and had my towel and flip flops). It was heavenly!!!

I was cursing at those hills as I was running the race. Now that’s it’s over, I am thinking about a repeat next year.

Since this was a point-to-point course, you had to board the school bus to get back to your car. It seemed to be a really long ride but a fun one as I got to know even more runners.

The Good:

  • Easy organized packet pick-up.
  • Lots of parking
  • Real Bathrooms at the start and near the finish
  • Nice Swag – tech shirt, bag, car magnet
  • Adequate water stops (5)
  • Excellent post race food – bananas, watermelon, cake, ice cream
  • Bag check and bags transported to the finish
  • Ended at the Lake
  • Photographer at the finish line

The Bad:

  • Not chip-timed
  • No port-a-potties along the course
  • The hilly looped portion of the course
  • Would have preferred a medal for everyone who finished and the car magnet for the AG winners.
  • Heat, humidity and blisters (and lack of hill training)

There are always glitches with a first annual race but there really weren’t any big ones.

Next Up:

I thought I might run a 5k on the next two weekends but instead, I think I am going to just run for fun with my friends. So my next scheduled race is a 5k on July 21.

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

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

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Happy Running! Any exciting plans for July 4th?  Do you enjoy running new races or do you prefer ones that you have already run before?

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June Report Card

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June was a great month for many reasons… beautiful running weather, boating, runs with friends and races.

Here’s how the month went:

Weekday Runs:

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

I ran many times while on working in NYC. I also ran while working in Rochester. I even ran local a few times. My weekday runs were usually around 3-4 miles (occasionally more and occasionally less).

Long Runs:

Boating and work have sometimes made it tough to get in my weekend long runs.  I added some miles to one 5K, I ran 3 long runs with friends and will end the month with a 15K race. I must say that this month was better than most for long runs. (Too bad I’m not training for a half.)

Total Mileage:

I only ran 62.5 miles so far this month (I will run more by the end of the month.) I think I am way behind on my 1000 mile yearly goal. The important thing is that I am feeling healthy so all is good.

Races:

I had several races on my schedule this month. I ran my favorite 5k, Freihofer Run for Women and had a course PR. I ran 2 races in Brooklyn while scheduled in NYC for work.  In the PPTC Summer Speed Series #2 5k, I beat last month’s time and won my age group.  At the Ice Cream Social 5k, I had a course PR (same course as the PPTC races) and won my age group. I plan to run the Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k on Saturday.

Cross Training:

I actually played tennis outdoors once this month.

I even worked out twice at the gym. (I just use the arm machines.)

I did walk at lunch once or twice. But working in NYC does get me a lot of steps.

Other News:

Despite all my work travel, I was able to squeeze in some friend and hubby time. These are usually spent with dinners in a restaurant. 

We have taken our boat out on the lake every weekend but one!!! Woo Hoo!!

The Freihofer Training Challenge ended but I hope to run into my friends at races or on Saturdays.  They have a group run at Peeples Island State Park on Saturdays so I may squeeze in some runs there, as well.

my FTC peeps minus Barbara

I feel very lucky to have a wonderful group of friends to run and brunch with on Saturdays!

 

Sat group minus Judy and Heidi (and Barbara who is injured)

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

Half Marathon #32 is not until September 23.

But I do have some shorter races planned .

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

  • 7-08-18 – Saratoga Springs 5k?
  • 7-21-18 – Silks & Satins 5k
  • 8-04-18 – 1st Monster Mountain 10k?
  • 8-11-18 – Camp Chingachgook Challenge 10k or Half Marathon? NYC trip to see my Russian friend
  • 8-11-18 – Governor’s Island 5k or 10K?
  • 8-18-18 – Jailhouse Rock 5k?
  • 8-22-18 – Hump Day 5k

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

Deb Runs
No monthly goals.

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

I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

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

I’d say overall an A

Despite the work travel, I did my best to get in my weekday runs in. I also did better with weekend long runs (since my races were often during the week.) I did play tennis once and went to the gym twice. I ran 3 shorter races and had course PRs in two of them. I also won an age group award in TWO of the races.  I intend to finish an inaugural (hilly) 15K race.

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

coachescorner

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

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Al Goldstein Summer Speed Series 5k #2 Recap

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Al Goldstein Summer Speed Series #1 – June 6, 2018 –  7:10 pm

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

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

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

Apparently during the summer months on alternating Wednesdays at 7:10 pm, there is a cheap ($7.50 – if young up for the whole series,each race costs only $5) 5k in Prospect Park, Brooklyn. These races are organized by the Prospect Park Track Club. I ran one last July and had a great time.

I was excited that they were scheduled again this summer and the first two races coincided with my the dates that I would be working in NYC. I ran the 5k two weeks ago and signed up again for one tonight.

Here are some of the perks of these races:

  • Bag check
  • Bathrooms (real ones!)
  • Water before, during and after the race
  • Chip Timing
  • Marker at each mile
  • 5 year Age group awards ceremony after the race
  • Results immediately emailed to you
  • Free photos

So it seemed like a no brainer to run some of these races if I could. Unfortunately I won’t be in NYC for the next 5 races.

And coincidentally, it was Global Running Day. I had to run, right?

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

At least this time, I was familiar with the route and knew that I would make the race on time (unless there were snafus with the transportation.)

On the subway, there was young girl in running clothes. When I got off at the Prospect Park stop, she did not. Hmmmm

So I entered the park and followed the signs as I did last time.

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

I saw the runner from the train. Apparently the next subway stop would have been closer to the race start. I hope to remember that for next year.

As I mentioned in my last recap, it was strange to be at a race and not know a single person.

I just had a banana and some water, checked my bag and waited til it was time to head to the start line.

Eventually runners started arriving.  There were probably close to 650. It was around 60 degrees, breezy and even a little chilly. But actually perfect running weather.

I had a headache all day and was feeling exhausted. Sleeping in a hotel is not ideal and I had stayed out late the night before.

Still here I was running a 5k at 7:10 in the evening.

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

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

Below is the course map. Since I had just run the course two weeks ago, I knew about the big LONG hill during mile 1.

2016summer5kmap

As I mentioned previously, there are usually runners of all ages who all look like “runners” and the finish times are incredibly fast. A little intimidating.

Happily it was not as warm as last time. And I was not worried about an injured foot. But I just ran a 5k this past weekend and this is a tough course and I didn’t want an injury. Still I would try to do my best and maybe even get a course PR.

oh so serious

I started running the first mile and I just felt like crap. I had to walk at .4 mile in and then again at .6. It didn’t help that it was an uphill that seemed to never end.

Mile 2 was better and I even skipped the water stop.

But I was crashing during mile 3.

I willed myself not to walk until the mile 3 marker. Then I did and gave up on the idea of a course PR.

I did not have enough energy to sprint and finish under 28 minutes.

I was a little dizzy and was thrilled when they handed out ice pops.

I walked back to bag check to get my jacket as it was dark and I was chilled.

They didn’t post the results this week. I did get an email with my time but I wasn’t sure if I won an award.

I finished #438…I told you they were speedy runners!

As I was waiting, I bumped into the guy that walked me to the subway last time. Again we both won and were in awe of how fast the finish times were.

Though it was very late by the time I got back to my hotel, I did enjoy my third Brooklyn 5k!! And I felt better after the race than before.

I plan to run these races again next year if my work dates match the race dates.

Race Splits
mile 1- 9:31
mile 2 – 8:43
mile 3 – 8:49
.14 – 8:31

28:02

So slower than my last 5k and not a course PR but faster than the last one on this course. That’s something.

I signed up for another 5k on June 12 (Brooklyn Ice Cream Social 5k).  It is not run by the Prospect Park Track Club (PPTC) as this one was but it may be exactly the same course. So I will have another shot at a course PR.

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

Happy Running! Did you on Global Running Day? Do you try to improve your times on the same course?