October 16, 2016 by Darlene

2016 Great Pumpkin Challenge 10K Race Recap

October 15, 2015 – 9:30 am Saratoga Springs. NY

Running a 10K a week after a half marathon? Crazy?

I did a easy run on Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday and rested Friday in hopes that my legs would not be cranky

I ran this race the last two years and really enjoyed it (even 2014 in the rain.)

: 2015 – 59:19

: 2014 – 58:28

My 10K PR is 57:03 and as you can see, I’ve gotten slower each year. But I was still on a PR “High” so I had no expectations for a fast time.

I was very tempted to switch to the 5k course which is flat. The 10k course continues from the 5k and there are several big hills.

I may have switched so I could try for a 5k PR but after running 13.1 miles less than a week ago, it seemed unlikely that this would happen.

The race takes place in Saratoga State Park which is a beautiful place to run especially in the fall.

The weather in the Fall is very unpredictable. It could be warm and then it could be cold.

Not knowing what the weather will do makes it hard to dress. I’m not ready to dress for winter. (I am wearing that skirt as long as I can stand it.)

I planned to wear that same orange race shirt, a skirt and compression socks and then wear sweat pants, a jacket and gloves to leave behind and put on after the race.

When I got up it was 30 degrees and frost on the ground!!!!!!!!!!! But I stuck to my guns and wore that outfit.

This is a very popular race. They usually get about 1500 runners. So I left for the race early in case I had to park where I needed to get a shuttle to the start. The race was to start at 9:30 and I got there at 8:30 am. I got a parking spot right next to the finish line and was thrilled. (Why does someone who runs 13 miles look for the closest parking space???)

As soon as I got out of my car, I realized how cold it was. I decided to add a pair of capris under my skirt and another shirt under my jacket.

purple long sleeved tech shirt

I picked up my race a packet, entered my raffle ticket in one of the raffles and used the restroom. (Yes, there were real ones.) I also voted for my favorite in the pumpkin decorating contest. It was tough to choose.

: my favorite

Then I hung out at the fire pit and chatted with the other runners. I didn’t find any of my friends but I did get to talk to and shiver with many of the runners that I see at local races – most of them are very speedy too.

Finally it was time for the race to start. It was cold but I decided to leave my jacket and pants at the bag check. I put my DIY arm warmers on under my shirt and kept on my gloves. Many of the runners were in costume. I thought about it but it was too cold.

I may not look cold but I was.

I started not too far back because I was with those fast ladies. (and two of them were in my age group.)

This race for me can be divided into two parts: The first 5K and the second 5k.

Miles 1-3

9:58, 9:07, 9:02

Both the 5k and 10k runners start together and run the same course. So it was very crowded at first. Since I was near the front, everyone was passing me by. I was trying to run fast but my legs just wouldn’t go. Those ladies that I mentioned, they quickly left me in the dust.

The 5k had a few inclines but was basically flat. I didn’t even have to walk.

I love running in this park. It is so pretty.

And the sun was shining brightly so I quickly warmed up. I was happy that I had taken off my jacket and extra shirt.

The 5k ended and my time was 27:xx. Crazy! I didn’t feel like I was running fast. It could have been a 5k PR!!

Of course, that exhausted me and we hadn’t hit the hills yet.

Miles 4-6.2

9:38, 9:52, 9:24, 8:31

At this point, I was too warm for those DIY arm sleeves. But did you ever try to get arm sleeves off under a long sleeved shirt? Yeah, pretty difficult. But eventually I had to stop and I got them rolled down.

The rest of the course was filled with hills. I tried to run up them but was pretty unsuccessful. So I walked many times during the second half of the race …during every hill.

I didn’t stop at any of the water stops. I wasn’t thirsty. But by mile 5, I was ravenous. I usually take a GU every 4 miles of a race. But without any water, I decided to see if I could get by on no fuel.

Well, by the end I had no energy..at all… and the biggest hill was 1/2 mile before the finish line…GRRR!!!

I really wasn’t paying attention to the time on my watch and I walked one last time on the last turn and was shocked to see that the clock said 57:xx!!

I booked it but it was too little, too late, I crossed at 57:28 (57:22 chip time).

My first thought was “Could I have PRed if I didn’t walk up all the hills?!”

Nevertheless, I was content that I ran the first half very well on tired legs and nothing was hurting!!! Besides it was course PR!

I quickly headed to get food. Priorities! The line was long but moved quickly. There was fruit, bagels, lots of delicious homemade goodies (cookies, apple, pumpkin, zucchini breads, etc.) and hot chocolate. Everything was so good!

It was getting late so I retrieved my checked bag and looked for the race results.

Though I was almost 2 minutes faster than last year when I won an AG award, this year I did not. (And they gave out insulated coffee travel mugs. Darn!)

I should have waited around for the awards ceremony but I didn’t because I wanted to get up to the lake. Today was going to be my last day there until next May 😦

Many of our friends had put their boats away for the season but one of our friends from NJ just got a new (bigger) boat and they were anxious to use it.

The weather was absolutely perfect. And we spent a glorious day on one of the islands: wine, steaks, sunshine, good friends. What more could you ask for?

: campfire to stay warm but it really wasn”t necessary so we used it to bake potatoes & sweet potatoes

: Robert, the master chef – kieblasa, steak

: Frank Sinatra was playing and they were drinking scotch and smoking cigars (not our friends)

: sun setting on the lake so we had to leave

: back at the marina to see the moon rise

My hubby and our friends stayed overnight but I had to go home because I promised my friend AJH from VT that I would watch her race in a local duathlon.

This was my 5th time as a spectator and I always enjoy it. The weather, however, wasn’t as nice as the day before. It was warmer but windy and cloudy so it felt colder.

While Andrea ran the first 2 mile leg, I had hot cider and a freshly made cider donut. During her 17 mile bike leg, I ran the 2 mile course. By the second 2 mile leg, the sun finally came out. Andrea took off after the race (to hit Target and the outlets. They don’t have Target in VT!!!) I stopped at Target too, then got my nails done and finally arrived at home to get all those things done that I don’t have time to do during the work week.

So a busy weekend has come to end. Another race done and another one coming next weekend (a 5k this time.)

Happy Running! Did you race this past weekend? Is it getting colder where you live? What fall activities do you enjoy?

September 1, 2016 by Darlene

TOLT: August Recap

Image result for august

Wow, the summer is flying by… Pumpkin lattes will be here before you know it…

So here’s how August went…

Weekday Runs:

Like July, August was HOT and humid most days and we had very little rain. I was able to run at least 3-4 times each week. But I do not have a treadmill at home so they were mostly slow sweaty ones.

Because I was not working, I was able to run wherever. I was not forced to run near home or near work. So I tried to do my runs in many different places – Chestertown, Crossings, Corning Trail, Colonie Town Park, Nisky Trail, Zim Smith Trail, Rail Trail, UAlbany, etc.

I also ran with Alyssa 4 times. I met her on FB. These were, no doubt, besides my 5k races my faster runs. I struggle when I run with her but she gets me to run faster. She says that I make her faster . Win-Win.

I re-connected with Barbara and Judy and ran with them each once. It’s more fun running with friends.

: with Judy

Long Runs:

There were TWO!!!. I ran races or went boating on the weekends. So I managed to move these runs to Monday.

Total Mileage:

I ran 89 miles this month – finally some improvement.

aug

Races:

I ran three races this month – a 8.4 miler, a 10K and a 5K.

: Aug 20

: Aug 13

: 2016

I was generally happy with how they went. I did not have PR goals and of course, they could have been faster. I won age group awards in all three. That’s an achievement. The 8.4 and 10k races were very HILLY! The only one I felt could be better was the 5k. We are, though, our own toughest critics.

Cross Training:

I was STILL unemployed and I played tennis. But not as often as in the beginning of the summer.

I DID NOT go to a single yoga class!! Someday I will do, I promise.

lheartspaceogo

I did workout at the gym at least three times. I know that I could go more often but it’s better than nothing.

I walked to the tennis courts when I played nearby and occasionally did go for a walk. But not as often as when I worked. I think that the tennis and the hiking (see below) made up for it, though.

my favorite place to walk – rail trail

Other News:

I went hiking again…by myself and with some friends. Love it. Once to Pinnacle Point in Bolton Landing and then on four trails in Chestertown.

I took a trip to NYC with my two of my friends. We listened to Broadway tunes in Bryant Park and then walked to the Metropolitan Museum of Art to see the Costume Institute. What a full but exciting day!!

I also took a day trip to the Saratoga Race Track with a friend. We had breakfast, watched and bet on the races and then stopped by the Casino (where I won $77).

I spent two wonderful weekends with my knitting and mah jongg friends on the Schroon River. I did some running but mostly played tennis, knit or played mah jongg and ate.

Boating season continued and the weather was great. I love it at the lake. It’s my “happy place.”

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

And I HAVE A NEW JOB!!!!!!!!! I will be working starting Sept.7.

Looking Ahead:

My next half marathon is September 18 and I am excited.

I do have a bunch of races coming up. This is my list so far for the next 2 months:

9-5-16 – Sefcu 5K
9-10-16 – Malta 5k
9-18-16 – Saratoga Palio Half Marathon
9-25-16 – Arsenal City 5k ???
10-01-16 – Apple Run 5K
10-09-16 – Ramblefest Half Marathon
10-15-16 – Great Pumpkin Challenge 10K

No monthly goals.

my motto for 2016

Since it is Thursday, I’m linking up today with Amanda for Thinking Out Loud Thursday.

thinking out loud

Happy Running! How did your August turn out? Anything exciting planned for September?

August 30, 2016 by Darlene

TOTR: Fall Races

This week’s TOTR topic is Fall Race Schedule

Here’s what I have planned so far…

9-10-16 – Malta 5k

I’ve run this 5k several times. It’s pretty flat and I usually win an AG award.

malta5k

9-18-16 – Saratoga Palio Half Marathon

2008 Saratoga Palio Poster (Palio!) Tags: race poster memorial compassion run promotional legacy scholarship palio halfmarathon 5k fund mentalhealthcare melaniemerolaodonnell

This a first for me. I’ve heard good things about it so we’ll see. I am using it as a training run for my next half.

10-01-16 – Apple Run 5K

This is a fun local race with good swag.

10-09-16 – Ramblefest Half Marathon

facebook_event_236824593361349

Another new race. It follows the same course of the Steel Rail Half which had favorable reviews.

10-15-16 – Great Pumpkin Challenge 10K

I have run this race a few times. There will be many runners there that I know so it should be fun. Plus running around the park is beautiful this time of year.

11-05-16 – NYRR Dash to the Finish Line 5K (in NYC)

My second time running through the NYC Marathon finish line. What can I say? You know I love NYC.

11-13-16 – Stockade-athon 15K

There aren’t many 15ks so I like to run them. This one is a very popular and lots of fun.

11-19-16 – Girls on the Run 5k

This is the 2nd year for this race. Most likely I won’t be running the race for myself but volunteering and helping one of the STEM runners finish her first 5k.

11-24-16 – Troy Turkey Trot 10k

70th this year

I plan to participate in the training group for this race. It’s the most popular race in our area and a great way to start Thanksgiving Day.

11-24 -16 –Troy Turkey Trot 5k

This race happens right after the 10k. I’m dressed to run so why not do it too??

12-03-16 – Panama City Half Marathon (in FL)

the Half!

A race-cation!! Can’t wait!! In addition I get to meet my favorite fellow bloggers! This will just be a fun one!!

I’m linking up with

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

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

August 16, 2016 by Darlene

Camp Chingachgook Challenge 10K Race Recap

ccc

I was looking forward to another Lake George race because I love the scenery. This race is even more scenic than the Adirondack Distance Run and just as hilly.

I ran this race in 2012 as my first 10k ever. I finished it at 1:09:07 but I was still recovering from ankle surgery.

After that, I ran more 10ks and this race again in 2014. I finished in 1:04:54 (A big improvement).

This year, I hoped to improve upon my Camp Chingachgook Challenge time but not to PR due to the hills. (My 10K PR is 57:03). I suck at hills.

The course is out and back – which means hills both ways.

10473168_305908679574878_277771612731589142_n

along the lake most of the way

no flat sections!

We’ve had an awfully hot, humid summer. Today was no exception. 99% humidity and close to 80 degrees at the start. There was a threat of rain and thunderstorms. Normally I hate to run in the rain but rain today would actually make things bearable.

I had my usual breakfast of hot cereal and left around 6:45 am. I got there with no problems around 8:15 am, found parking, used the (real) restrooms and wandered around for a while exploring the grounds. I chatted with many runners who asked about the course. I felt like an expert since I had run it twice already.

I quickly bumped into Lara, a fellow runner and former tennis teammate.

our power pose in honor of our friend Tom who was not running the race

As I mentioned, although you run along the lake for the whole way, it is HILLY, I mean very HILLY. I have run 2 races on the other side of the lake and this side, the hills are a lot steeper.

Lara and I run around the same pace. Sometimes she beats me and sometimes I beat her. So we started out together and stayed together for awhile.

I started out too fast, of course, and I even tried to run up the hills. But since I don’t train for hills and hate them, I soon tired and realized that if I wanted to finish upright, I better walk them and so I did.

Lara continued to trudge up the hills without walking.

Walking during a race does not make me happy but at times, the hills were so steep that I had trouble walking up them. The only good thing was that many runners were walking and even those who did not, were running slow and I could pass them on the downhills.

So I used the same strategy as last week. Walk, run, walk, run, walk up the hills and run fast down the hills.

It seemed to work. I got way ahead of Lara and many other runners that I started with.

What was strange was that since this race was also a half marathon that started an hour before but had the same finish, you saw the fast runners heading to the end when we slower runners barely started. (The half marathon winner finisher in 1:11:xx!!!)

As with all Lake George races (this being my 3rd this year), the road was not closed to traffic. You had to move over to let cars go by and sometimes they were going in both directions and there were runners running in both directions.

The views were decent. You had the lake on the right the first half and on the other side the second half.

I got to the turn around with a decent time – under 30 minutes but I had to battle the same hills to the finish line.

Now I was running with the faster very sweaty half marathoners. I am not a sweater but the sun kept peaking out (I could wear my sunglasses because they kept fogging up due to the humidity) and it seemed that it was not going to rain. So I was dripping in sweat.

Around mile 4, at only the 2nd water stop, I took a gu and a long walk and then continued my run/walk the uphills and sprint (if you can call it a “sprint”) the downhills.

Finally we turned left toward the lake and the race ended. I was happy that it was on a downhill. I even mustered up enough strength to sprint past a few runners. I crossed at 1:02:23 (gun time)

Yes, this was over 5 minutes slower than my 10K PR, but considering the conditions, I was pleased. It was actually a course PR – over 2 minutes faster than the last time.

I got my medal and just walked around near the water. Believe it or not, I was too hot to eat right away.

Then I went to get my shirt. (They didn’t have small sizes when I check in.)

I waited for Lara to finish (She was about 4 minutes behind me.)

Then I played around getting medal pics while waiting for Alyssa to cross the finish line. The poor girl was running the half marathon.

Finally I saw her. Like everyone else, she had a slow race.

She jumped into the lake and then headed to take the shuttle bus back to the start.

looks like a storm’s a comin

By this time, I was getting hungry and sat down with Lara and some other runners that I knew.

I got some food…there were hot dogs, chicken, potato salad, cole slaw, bagels, and watermelon – quite a spread.

While we were waiting for the awards, it started to thunder and the skies opened up. Good thing, we were under cover.

food pavilion

I did come in first in my age group.

Normally they give out cool prizes and only to the winner. This year, they gave 3 deep and your prize was food.

I won a chocolate muffin and it was delish.

It continued to rain so I decided to forgo my plans to get in more miles. My legs weren’t tired (thank you compression socks) but I was so sweaty. Those 2.8 miles would have to wait until the next day.

Splits:

mile 1- 9:36
mile 2- 10:25
mile 3 – 9:41
mile 4 – 11:01
mile 5 – 9:58
mile 6 – 10:10
.2 – 7:59

1:02:16 (Garmin time)

In looking at last year’s stats, the difference in the race was the last 2 miles. I had a faster first half but slowed down more the second half.

So was I disappointed? Not really. I don’t train on hills. And walking on the hills saved my legs. I beat my time on this course from two years ago but I know I can do better.

I used to walk up the whole hill. Now I walk and run. Maybe someday I’ll have the strength and/or confidence to run up the hills.

I did enjoy the race. I never regret a race. And my legs felt fine after. I was even able to run the next two mornings.

The race was the beginning of a weekend with friends – we ate, chatted, knitted, hiked, watched the Olympics, saw a movie (Pitch Perfect)…

Since this is Tuesday, I am linking up with:

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

Happy Running! Any advice for running hilly races? How was your weekend?

August 15, 2016 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday – For the past 33 years, my friend (former co-worker) & I had gone to breakfast at the race track.

Sometimes after breakfast and watching the horse warm up, we stay for the races. We did this year and had a lot of fun betting – mostly successfully but I don’t bet a lot of money so I don’t win a lot of money.

Afterward we decided to stop off at the casino cuz I had never been. Beginners luck had me winning $77. We celebrated with ice cream.

Tuesday – After another day of car shopping, I ran at the Colonie Town Park and then played tennis.

unfortunately I waited until 4 pm when it was 90 degrees! At least there was shade.

Wednesday – We finally got the rain that we needed but the result was oppressive humidity. I was running with a friend which made it more bearable.

at the Corning Bike Path

Thursday – I played tennis in the am and I couldn’t believe how humid it was!!! (I don’t know how you Southerners do it.) Since they predicted a heat index of 100 degrees, I reluctantly ran (3 slow miles) on the treadmill at the gym. Then worked out with a friend, went out for dinner and a walk on the rail trail.

Friday – AM tennis was cancelled so I did stuff around the house. Then I went with my hubby to pick up his new truck. We had two parties to go to – one at our marina and one for the hubby’s tennis team. Yup, we managed to go to both. (carb loading for my race the next day, right?)

Saturday – Ran a HOT, HUMID, HILLY 10k.

a course PR and won my age group

After the race, I headed up to spend the rest of the day at my friend’s house on the Schroon River. This was a “knitting” weekend. Rained on and off all day so only managed a walk. Perfect knitting weather.

Sunday – I got in a run before everyone got up. After breakfast, I talked them into 2 hikes.

Then there was lunch, more knitting and some swimming.
20 miles done with 4 runs and 3 rest days.

This Week:

Monday – 4 mile run, hiking
Tuesday – AM tennis, tennis pizza party, PM tennis
Wednesday – 4 mile run with a friend, mall walk with bff, mini golf /dinner
Thursday – AM tennis, pool party, 4 miles with a friend
Friday – AM tennis, rest, mah jongg
Saturday – 5k race + 7 more miles
Sunday – boating

Once again, I am linking up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Tricia @ MissSippiPiddlin. See rules here.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any races?

May 17, 2016 by Darlene

TOTR: Picking your races

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

This week’s topic is: Racing. Are you a one-and done type? Or do you run the same ones over and over?

Well, both.

For half marathons, I have decided not to repeat. There are so many to choose from. I don’t feel the need even though I am tempted to re-do the ones I’ve loved. There are still many local ones that I haven’t run.

my favorite destination race

my favorite local race

For other distances, if I like a race, I do run it every year. I won’t list them all since as you know, I run a lot of races. The ones below, I try to put on my racing calendar every year.

I will be running the Freihofer’s 5k for the 9th time this year.

the Spring Run Off is my favorite 10k

I love the Stockadeathon 15K

Delmar Dash wins for a 5 mile race

and the Polar Cap for 4 milers

My favorite 10 mile race is the Adirondack Distance Run

Happy Running! Do you repeat races?

May 4, 2016 by Darlene

Spring Run Off 10K Race Report & Being Fearless

sro16

I almost didn’t sign up for this race since I had already signed up for a 5k the next day. Normally these two races are not on the same weekend.

But I have run this race twice before and I have enjoyed it.

2014 at the 10K

Plus I’ve always won an award.

: 3rd

: 1st

I am familiar with the course. It is where I do a lot of my long training runs.

running here with Denise a few weeks ago

I tossed around the idea of running the 5k but in the end, I decided to do the 10K (even though it meant that at the race the next day I would not be in top form.) Basically because even if I am NOT doing my long runs, I need to keep my mileage up for my May 29 half marathon – the VCM Relay.

No goals for the race but since it was my third time, I expected something like the past two years:

2015: 58:19
2014: 1:00:51

My 10K PR is 57:03

The night before the race, there was a free pasta dinner at packet pick up.

another unisex tech shirt that it is big!

The food was really good. It was catered by D’Raymonds, a local Italian restaurant. There was salad, bread, pasta, wine, and lots of homemade desserts. It wasn’t a buffet. They actually served you. I ate A LOT!!

Two years ago I got invited to sit with two lovely older runners. We had some great discussions….about running, of course and have seen each other several times since.

pasta dinner before the race above

This year, these ladies couldn’t come so I sat with some runners that I know since we run many of the same races. It was fun.

I may have over indulged

After dinner, I rushed off to play mah jongg (and stayed out later than I should have.)

I was tired when I got up the next morning (and with an upset stomach) but happy that again I lucked out with the weather – sunny, no wind and cool (40s to start and 50s later). I wore a short-sleeved top, skirt, compression socks and brought a jacket just in case.

cloudy & chilly when I first arrived

I arrived early to make sure I got parking and to look for people whom I knew. I found parking in the closer lot and then walked over to the start.

I immediately ran into Lara, a former tennis teammate but now running friend.

I decided to run without my jacket and I was so glad that I did

We hung out and chatted. What was great about this race was how many runners were there that I knew. Some I hadn’t seen since last year. It was like a reunion.

This race included a 5k and a 10k. This year for the first time, both races started at the same time.

I started toward the front but not too near the fast runners.

the sun came out once the race started but it was breezy near the water

I went out fast of course because I knew that I would slow down – bad attitude, right?

The course is lovely. You run along the Hudson River.

But I was already walking through the water stop at 1.25 miles.

This was a sign that the race would be going downhill. I actually felt nauseous the whole race. And my legs were telling me that they were not ready yet for speed.

Nevertheless, I willed myself to keep up an even pace until the turn around of this out and back course. (In fact, I was at 28:xx minutes at the 3.1 mile mark but I knew that I was tired and as usual, would slow down.)

You would think that there would be water then but nope not again until about mile 4.75. It was warm and I was VERY thirsty. I complained to the volunteers like I did last year.

I wanted to eat some Gu to get more energy around mile 4 but decided against it with no water (plus my stomach was unhappy.)

I got 2 blisters during my half on Sunday. I thought they were both healed and didn’t put anything on them. Wrong! One was healed but the one on the bottom of my leg foot started to hurt…with every step.

So I dragged myself/limped to the end (which always seem to have annoying inclines.)

Lara & I run af the same pace. Sometimes I beat her and sometimes she beats me. She was behind me the whole the race until the last mile. Then she passed me by. I tried to catch her to no avail.

As I approached the finish line, I sprinted in hopes of finishing under 59 minutes but did not.

I crossed at 59:11 (gun time).

sro

Race Splits:

mile 1 – 9:02
mile 2- 9:21
mile 3 – 9:31
mile 4 – 9:41
mile 5 – 10:02 (check out those positive splits!!)
mile 6 – 9:41
.2 – 8:29

59:06 – Garmin Time

I had some refreshments and waited for the results. Homemade cookies, brownies and cakes – YUM!

My inaugural Team Badass photo

I also began to feel better about my race. My time wasn’t bad. I beat my time from my last 10K (Troy Turkey Trot) and my legs hadn’t recovered yet from last Sunday’s hilly half.

I cheered on some friends who got age group awards. This year, I did not!!

some old ladies are still speedy

So I really enjoyed the race. Although I didn’t expect to PR, I probably thought I would win an age group award. I need to adjust my expectations.

The weather was so perfect that I hung out with some older ladies for a while and went for a walk. (Especially since rain was in the forecast for the next day.)

I wound up walking 4 more miles. That was 10 miles for the day so far. (Probably not too smart with another race scheduled for the next day.)

My legs felt better as the day wore on… I even went grocery shopping and did lots of errands. Also picked up my race packet for the race the next day.

one more disappointing unisex shirt

Since it is Wednesday, I am also linking to Deb from Deb Runs‘ Wednesday Word.

This week’s word is FEARLESS.

Just look at Katherine Switzer – the first woman to run the Boston Marathon (in 1967.)

and Bobbi Gibb who crashed the Boston Marathon in 1966.

What about Harriette Thompson who ran a marathon at age 92?

Now these women are FEARLESS.

Moi?

I try to not let fear get in my way. I am a risk taker, to some degree. (At least with my running.)

Run only 5ks and then train for a half marathon? No problem.
Run a 5k as your first run after serious ankle surgery? No problem.
Run a race with a foot stress fracture? No problem.
Finish a race after breaking your foot? No problem.
Race a hilly half marathon without training on hills? No problem.
Run 2 races in one weekend? No problem.

And yes, I am running 2 races (a 15 and a 5k) again this weekend.
Happy Running! How was your weekend? Did you run or race? Are you fearless?

May 2, 2016 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday – A cool, cloudy day. I managed to take my Starbucks walk to the park. I hope you are not tired of tulips pics because they are just beginning to bloom (and I will probably post pics everyday.)

I was secretly hoping that it might rain so I didn’t have to go to my group training run. But it didn’t rain until much later. On the schedule was 4-6 800m at 5k pace. I talked to my coach and he said not to do that but to run with the Intermediate group. Phew!!! So I did and the 8:1 intervals were perfect. I spent the first half of the run talking to one of the mentors who is also a Skirt Sports ambassador and the second half to another runner that I met during one of the Troy Turkey Trot training groups. And actually after that recovery run, my legs felt better. I even continued my walk in the mall.

Tuesday – A cold nasty day. It also poured most of the day. I was glad that a rest was on my schedule. And that I play tennis indoors.

Still went for my walk to the park. The tulips were even prettier in the rain.

Wednesday – The day started out poorly. My car battery died. Luckily my hubby could drive me to work and my friend could drive me home. Instead of my walk to the park today, I ran near work.

After work, my tennis friends scheduled a visit to the “Mystery Room” in the mall. We had a blast. Then afterwards, we went out to dinner (what else?)

we even solved the mystery!

Thursday – To celebrate Million Mile Month, my co-workers took a walk to the park at lunch. (Not so exciting for me, since I do it everyday but they enjoyed viewing the tulips.)

I went for a run after work before walking the mall with my BFF.

tired legs but ran into an old tennis friend

Friday – No running today and of course, I walked to the park to gaze at the tulips.

After work, I went to the free pasta dinner given to runners in Saturday’s race. Chatted with some nice people and ate way too much.

Played mah jongg afterwards.

Saturday – Perfect weather for a race. Unfortunately due to stomach issues, a blister and tired legs, I didn’t have my A game. Knowing so many runners at this race made it one of my favorites (despite my 4th place AG finish.)

Afterwards, I took advantage of the weather and went for a long walk.

Then drove to pick up my bib for my 5k the next day, went grocery shopping, did some errands, etc.. After a soak in the hot tub, went out to dinner with the hubby.

Sunday – I woke up to rain and contemplated bailing on the race. But I didn’t and I’m glad I didn’t. My legs were even more tired than yesterday. I gave it my best shot (but only finished 5th in my AG – those darn speedy old people!). Again, seeing familiar faces made the race much more enjoyable.

19 miles done with 5 runs and 2 rest days.

This Week: (4 weeks until Half Marathon #20)

Monday – Freihofer Challenge Group Run (3 miles)
Tuesday – Practice GOTR 5K
Wednesday – 3 miles, STEM Run
Thursday – rest, b-day dinner & movie with BFF
Friday – rest, mah jongg
Saturday – 15K race, Tulip Fest with mentee & sons
Sunday – 5K race (GOTR), dinner out for Mother’s Day

Once again, I am linking up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by Holly @ HoHoRuns and Tricia @ MissSippiPiddlin. See rules here.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any races?

May 1, 2016 by Darlene

April Recap

I can’t believe April is over already… Time is flying by!!

So here’s how things went:

Weekday Runs:

The weather was fickle – there were warm days and then there were cold days. There were even rainy and windy days. I was still able to run 2-3 times each week – mostly after work.

Long Runs:

There were a few races with extra miles added on. Then I ran a half marathon. So I continued to run higher mileage on the weekend.

: 5 mile race + 6 = 11 miles

: 5K + 3 + 6 = 12 miles

: 11 miles

Total Mileage:

100 miles this month!

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I was pleased that my mileage is back up because next month, there will be a lot fewer miles run.

Races:

I ran FOUR races this month – a 5 miler, a 5K, a half marathon and a 10K.

: Bacon Hill Bonanza – 27:44 – 1st in my AG

: Lake George Half- 2:16:56 – 2nd in my AG

: Spring Run Off 10K

I was generally happy with how they all went. I did not have PR goals and of course, they could have been faster but the shorter races were the first part of a long run. And the half marathon had hills which I had not trained for. The 10K was the week after the half.

Cross Training:

I had taken a few weeks off from tennis to heal my sore elbow. I started back playing once a week and now it feels FINE!! Yay!!

happy to back on the court with my friends – played 3 times this month.

I DID NOT go to a single yoga class!! I planned to but something usually got in the way. Next month, I promise! (Wait, I said that last month and the month before!!)

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I continued to walk at work (around the building and to Starbucks or the park). I have also started going to the mall to get more steps in on days when the weather is lousy.

My Starbucks addiction continues!!

I did not go to the gym at all. My elbow is healed so I have NO excuses…just lazy (or have other priorities).

Sat am at the gym

Other News:

I ran 4 times with the Freihofer Challenge Training group. We started out the month with snow, then there was rain and we ended with sunshine. I enjoy running with my “advanced” group friends and coach Patrick. He has had us running 400m intervals. These are tough for me because they often come on the day after a long run.

I’ve also started my volunteering with STEM. These year’s group is so enthusiastic. It makes it even more fun. I am paired up with a lady who is very speedy, as well. No goofing off here.

The place where I work participated in the Million Mile Month for the month of April. I changed my original goal of completing 100 miles to 300. And I did it!!!!

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I’m reading a new book that I am enjoying.

I finally got together with my mentee and her 2 sons. I hadn’t seen them in months. We went to the Firefigher’s Museum and had a blast.

After missing a monthly gathering with my tennis friends, we did get together this month.

lots of laughs and we did solve the mystery.

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

I am not training for my next half marathon in May. It’s another hilly but scenic course. I am looking forward to spending time with AJH and visiting the Burlington VT area again.

May 29, 2016

I have been busy signing up for spring races. This is my list so far for the next 2 months:

5-01-16 – Cherry Blossom 5k
5-03-16 – practice GOTR 5k
5-07-16 – Mastodon Challenge 15k
5-08-16 – Mother’s Day 5K (for GOTR)
5-12-16 – Albany Law Day Against Domestic Violence 5k
5-14-16 – Summer Smith 5k Addiction Awareness Run
5-29-16 – Vermont City Marathon Relay
6-04-16 – Freihofer’s Run for Women 5k
6-12-16 – Run for Help 5k (for STEM)
6-26-16 – Adirondack Distance Run 10m

And May is my favorite month!!!

Flowers are in bloom and it’s my birthday and I go on vacation!!! Woo Hoo!!!!!!!!!

you’ll see a lot of my runs here

May 9 = annual b-day out with a former co-worker

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a week of tennis in the Fla. sunshine

No monthly goals.

my motto for 2016

Happy Running! How did your April turn out? Anything exciting planned for May?

April 4, 2016 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday – A cold, rainy, dreary day but at least the rain stopped so I decided to go to my Freihofer Challenge Group Run. Then as soon as we started running, it started to pour. It rained for the entire run and stopped when we were done.

Tuesday – No rain but lots of wind. I left work early to meet my GOTR running buddy (Jayme, age 11) & then attended the GOTR orientation. Afterwards, I walked the mall with my BFF who just returned from a month in FL. (Got my 10k steps in!!)
Wednesday – A busy work day (and giving day). Still had time for a walk and a group pic.

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My monthly dinner with tennis friends got cancelled (too many were sick ). Instead I ran in the park and yes, I ran up a hill (a few times.)

Thursday -Another rest day but I did go for a walk during work. Ate dinner out. This time Thai food with two co-workers.
Friday – We started this at work today. My goal is 100 miles this month (walking + running):

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At lunch we had a fun kick-off event.

april 1

After work, I squeezed in a run before dinner (in between the rain) and mah jongg.

Our new mah jongg cards start on April 1 each year so it is always exciting the first time you play on them. I won 2x so a good night.

Saturday – A rest day filled with all those things you have to get done because you work all week. But I did take a walk on the trail right behind my house. Believe it or not, the last time I was on it was when we moved in 16 years ago.

just missed the rain

My hubby wanted to go out to dinner so I agreed…carb loading, right?

Sunday – A wintery mix with gusty winds was not the ideal weather for the Delmar Dash 5 mile race. But actually the snow stayed on the lawns and wind was not unbearable until later on.