July 3, 2018 by Darlene

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.

: 2017

: 2016

: 2014

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:

: Paris 8K 2017

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.

: 1 + 6 = 7 miles

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

coachescorner

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?

July 1, 2018 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 6.25.18-7.1.18: Rain, Heat and a New Race

Back on the road for work and the new 15K that I have sorta been training for.

Monday – I ran after work today at UAlbany since I hadn’t run the perimeter and the pond loop in a while.

the weather was perfect

Tuesday – In Rochester for work and after the long drive and set up, I headed to the Erie Canal trail for a run. It was a little warm but nothing like the weather which will be coming this weekend.

I also met up with a fellow Skirt Sports ambassador which is always fun.

Wednesday – After work, although I had a long drive home, I planned to stop for my ice cream and a short run. Unfortunately it was pouring so I had to settle for just ice cream.

got a milkshake – so yummy

Thursday – A rest day because after work, I had plans to get together with my tennis friends. We try to do this once a month. It was another rainy day as well.

Friday – Another rest day (third rest day in a row) in preparation for my race the next day.
Saturday – Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k. It was a new race on the hottest day of the summer so far. I didn’t know what to expect and the hills were the worst (or maybe it was the humidity). But I just walked a lot and survived. The ice cream at the end as well as the cold lake to soak your feet helped. And I placed 2nd in my AG.

Sunday – Boating Sunday. 100 degree day and so happy to be able to spend it on the lake.

all I needed was some shade, cool water and a good book

This Coming Week –

Monday – 3 miles or rest due to the heat wave
Tuesday – 2-3 miles, tennis (maybe more rest due to the heat)
Wednesday – DAY OFF – rest day or 3 miles in the am, Boating
Thursday – 4 miles
Friday – rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – 8 miles
Sunday – rest day, boating

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Hom e

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Please share.

June 24, 2018 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 6.18.18-6.24.18: Home Sweet Home

I did only local travel so I slept in my own bed ALL WEEK. And I didn’t run a race!!!

Monday – After set up for my training the next day, I went for a run at the Crossings. With the heat index over 100, it was more like a slog. It rained a little but after the rain, it was cooler but more humid Ugh!

Tuesday – After work, I played tennis. It’s been awhile but as usual so fun to catch up with my friends.

time to kill before tennis so this happened

Afterwards, I met my BFF at the mall to walk and chat.

Wednesday – After work, I hadn’t planned to run but I realized that I wouldn’t be able to run the next two days and rain was forecast for both Saturday and Sunday so I did go for a run.

on my local rail trail

Thursday – Rest day due to an after work hair appointment. Afterward, I went to a Women’s Wellness Retreat with two friends. The grounds were beautiful but otherwise the event was disappointing since it seemed to be a way to convince you to sign up for their classes (meditation, etc.) Speakers, some breathing ex, speakers, some seated yoga, more speakers.

the gardens were beautiful also

Friday – Another rest day. Hosted mah jongg at my home. Does cleaning count as a workout?
Saturday – I was hoping that the rain would hold off so I could squeeze in a long run. I met up with 4 friends and we all had different mileage plans so although we started out together, I ended up only running with Judy (not this Judy). It was a GREAT run (she pushes me to not walk and I push her to run faster) and then we all went out to brunch.

Sunday – ~~Boating Sunday~~. Boating rained out. But it was a very productive day. I went to the gym, went for a long walk on a new trail, got my nails done, went grocery shopping and did ;laundry.

This Coming Week –

Monday – 3-4 miles
Tuesday – travel to Rochester for work, 3-4 miles
Wednesday – 2 miles, drive home
Thursday – rest day, monthly tennis friends night out
Friday – rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k
Sunday – rest day, boating

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Hom e

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Please share.

January 31, 2017 by Darlene

January Recap (& TOTR)

Image result for january

Cannot believe that the first month of 2017 is over already (and that Donald Trump is now the President)!!

Anyway, here’s how January went:

Weekday Runs:

We’ve been lucky and it’s hasn’t been cold or snowy of a January or a winter. So I was able to run at least 3 times outdoors each week which is great because I do not have a treadmill at home.

I ran mostly at UAlbany (near work). It’s easier than driving to run. But I’ve been getting bored and have been also running in the town where I live.

I ran mostly alone. Barbara was still injured. Alyssa was busy until the last half of the month.

: in Delmar

: at the Corning Bike Path on a day off

: at UAlbany

It’s definitely more fun running with friends. I hope I get to do that more next month.

Long Runs:

They have begun. They are not double digits yet but it’s coming.

: + 3.5 miles = 6.5 (at Ualbany)

: on the Zim Smith Bike Path

Total Mileage:

I ran 85 miles so far this month – an improvement over last month (69). .Although last January, I ran 101.

jan17

Races:

I ran three races this month – 3.5, 10k, 15k. They were all free and part of the HMRRC Winter Series.

I was generally happy with how they all went. I won my age group in the 3.5 miler and the 10K and 15K were just fun training runs.

Cross Training:

I still play tennis (indoors, of course.) I am scheduled to play two Tuesdays a month but do get called to sub on some of the other weeks.

I NEVER went at all to work out at the gym but I did plank a few times at home!

I did walk almost every day at lunch for 30 minutes – Either around the outdoor shopping mall or to get a Starbucks coffee.

Other News:

I signed up for three more Half Marathons – April and October are with other ladies (Girls Weekend!!). We even have our hotel rooms booked.

Shape Women’s Half Marathon – April 30 in NYC
Steel Rail Half Marathon – May 21 in Adams, MA
Wineglass Half Marathon – October 1 in Corning, NY

January was not an especially busy month.

I attended a post-inauguration march where I live. It was a great experience. Though, I wish that I had gone to NYC or Washington.

We had a surprise 70th birthday party for one of my tennis friends.

I got to see a few more movies – Lion, LaLa Land, Hidden Figures and Twentieth Century Century Women. I loved Lion and Hidden Figures. All the good ones seem to come out before Oscar time.

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

My next half marathon is March 5 in Florida where I will be visiting a few friends.

I only have a few races coming up. Things slow down around here in the winter.

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

2-04-17 – Polar Cap 4m
2-12-17 – HMRRC Winter Series #5 10m
3-05-17 – Treasure Coast Half Marathon (in FL)
3-11-17 – Runnin’ of the Green (4m)
3-26-17 – Shamrock Shuffle (5m)

No monthly goals.

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

Since today is 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: Give your running month a letter grade.

I’d say a B+

What do you think?

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

January 29, 2017 by Darlene

Winter Series #4 15k Race Report

This same race in 2015

Once again the Hudson Mohawk Runners Club sponsored a FREE race for its members and this weekend, they offered distances of 3M, 15K and 30K.

Since I have a half marathon in 7 weeks, I chose to run the 15K since 9 miles was on my “schedule.”

I have run several 15Ks (including 4 on this same course):

2016 – 1:33:13, 2015 – 1:34:29, 2014 – 1:34:55 & 1:42:40 (At least I’ve gotten faster.)

My 15 PR on a harder course is actually 1:31:25.

But I was continuing with my “relaxing” and go with the flow race plan – run and enjoy. Besides, this race was just part of my training for my March 5 Half Marathon.

These Winter Series races start at 10 am so you don’t have to get up at the crack of dawn. I always leave early to get parking since these races are often crowded and there may be other events going on at UAlbany at the same time.

I was surprised when I got there that the parking lot was empty. The weather was perfect for racing. Sunny for the first time in over a week, 30 degrees or so and a little breezy.

What I love about this local race is that you get to see a lot of people that you know.

last year meeting up with Judy & Barbara

And I immediately bumped into many different running friends.

My two age group competitors were there. Oh well.

Anyway I hung indoors until the last minute and then made out way outside.

basically a few loops around parking lots

This week I made sure that my Garmin was charged and got a signal.

All three distances started at the same location this week. As usual, I started pretty close to the front and let the speedy runners pass me by.

For most of the race, I felt overdressed. I unzipped my jacket and took off my gloves but my turtle neck was a mistake. (Of course, the wind picked up toward the end and I was happy to have worn the jacket.)

As in all my recent races, I tried to relax and run at an even pace. But as usual, my first mile was the fastest and I fizzled with each mile after.

I walked through the first water stop around mile 3.5 and took a Gu as well as the second water stop. I ran most of the rest of the race.

This was due to fact that Alyssa caught up to me around mile 5.5. We chatted the whole time. I’ve never run a race with someone before.

Did it slow me down? Probably. Alyssa is a faster runner for the early miles. In long races such as a half marathon I’ve finished 20 minutes faster.

Nevertheless it made the miles go by faster. I didn’t walk where I normally would. I just ran at an easier pace. But it certainly was a lot more fun having company.

Eventually as we neared the finish line, I took off and finished at 1:34:00 (25 seconds ahead of Alyssa.)

A happy runner

Alyssa left to run a few more miles and I waited around for Judy to finish.

After Judy finished, we went inside had some refreshments. There was vegetable chili, bread fruit and hot cocoa. Free race..free good food. Win-win.

The awards were for 10 year age groups and just top 2.

I finished 128 out 174.

After the awards, I changed my clothes and Judy, Alyssa and I headed to the mall.

stem

The Athleta store was holding a clothing drive for participants in the STEM program. It motivated me to clean out my closets and get rid of any running clothes that I no longer wear.

I was very happy with how I ran this 15k race as a training run – I pushed myself just enough but not too much. It wasn’t a PR 15K and not even a course PR (1 minute slower than last year.)

Race splits:

mile 1 – 9:09
mile 2 – 9:34
mile 3 – 9:42
mile 4 – 10:13 (water & Gu)
mile 5 – 10:15
mile 6 – 10:32
mile 7 – 10:38 (water)
mile 8 – 10:34
mile 9 – 10:42
.3 – 8:39

Finish Time – 1:34:00

So obviously the second half of the race was much slower than the first. It always is for me so I won’t blame Alyssa. But it is hard to run your own pace when you are running with another runner and you are talking. However, it made the race more enjoyable and “relaxing.!!”

Next weekend, I signed up for a 4 mile race in Lake George. It should be fun. Fingers crossed for no ice or snow.

AJH (from VT) & I at this race in 2015. We try to do this one together every year.

I am sharing in the support love by linking up with a Sunday Fitness and Food Linkup hosted by

Ilka from Ilka’s Blog and Angela from Marathons & Motivation

Happy Running! How you are enduring the winter? Did you run this weekend?

December 1, 2016 by Darlene

November Recap & TOLT

Image result for november Time has just flown by. I can’t believe that it is now December. I feel like I just wrote my October Recap.

Anyway, here’s how November turned out:

Weekday Runs:

We’ve been lucky and had a pretty mild November with very little rain or cold temps (until the last week.) So I was able to run at least 3-4 times outdoors each week which is great because I do not have a treadmill at home.

I ran mostly at UAlbany (near work). It’s easier than driving to run. Plus, it’s now dark when I get out of work.

I ran mostly alone. Barbara was injured. Alyssa was busy and I was in NYC one week.

It’s definitely more fun running with friends. I hope I get to do that more next month.

Long Runs:

There were a few of these! One was a 15k race race, one was miles added to a 5k race and one was actually 8 uninterrupted miles.

: 11/2

: 11/20

: 11/26

: 15k – 11/13

Total Mileage:

I ran 90 miles this month – 6 fewer than last month (cuz I missed a long run) but I should definitely hit 1000 for the year next month. (After Saturday, I will be at 993!!)

nov16

Races:

I ran six races this month – a 15k, a 10K and four 5ks.

Yes, 6!!!

: Dash to the Finish 5k

: Veteran’s Day 5k – 27:51

: Stockade-athon 15k – 11/13

: GOTR 5k (STEM mentor)

: Turkey Trot 10k and 5k

I was generally happy with how they all went. I did not have PR goals but my finish times were not far off. I even won an age group award in the Veteran’s Day 5k.

14976488_773584866112521_935004535777035098_o

I knew runners at all of the races and they were all super fun. As you can guess I LOVE RACING!! I wish there were more races during the winter months.

Cross Training:

I still play tennis (indoors now.) I am scheduled to play two Tuesdays a month but do get called to sub on some of the other weeks.

I DID NOT go to a single yoga class!! Someday I will. I hope!

Miss you, Maria!

I did NOT workout at the gym or at home at all. Total slacking here again this month!!

I did walk almost every day at lunch for 30 minutes – Either around the outdoor shopping mall to get a Starbucks coffee or around a short nature trail. When I was in NYC, I walked everywhere!!

what’s not to like about working near here for 5 days…

Other News:

My running groups ended this month.

I ran with the Troy Turkey Trot Challenge advanced group several Monday evenings. Those were the only times that I did any speed workouts. I hope to see these women (and do drills) again in the spring for the Freihofer Training Challenge group runs.

I volunteered with STEM group on most Wednesday evenings. Their 5k race took place on Nov. 19. It was a tremendously rewarding experience. I plan to volunteer again with this group, as well.

Jenn on the left is the founder of the group, Kim in the middle is our success story

I extended my race trip to NYC because my friend Anna from Moscow flew in and invited 2 of her Russians friends (now living in DC & Chicago) to join her. We had a busy time yet fun time together. And I got to meet fellow blogger, Karen, again.

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

My next half marathon is December 3 and I am very excited. It will also be a blogger meet-up!! I’m actually more excited about this than the race itself.

I do have a few races coming up. Things slow down around here when it gets cold.

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

12-03-16 – Panama City Beach Half Marathon (in FL)
12-10-16 – Albany Last Run 5K
01-01-17 – HMRRC Winter Series #2 – 3.5M
01-15-17 – HMRRC Winter Series #3 – 10K
01-29-17 – HMRRC Winter Series #4 – 15K

No monthly goals.

my motto for 2016 & I’m sticking to it!

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

thinking out loud

Happy Running! How did your November turn out? Anything exciting planned for December?

November 14, 2016 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday – I was so tired after my weekend but I dragged myself planning to go to my Troy Turkey Trot training group run after work (We are now at a new location – RPI campus). We did 8 X 1 min at race pace. It was tough but as usual, I am glad I went.

I think we only did 3 miles this week.

Tuesday – After work I voted and then played tennis and went out to dinner. I hate that it gets dark so early!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday – With Barbara injured, Alyssa away and STEM cancelled, I had to run solo. It was cold and raining so I could only motivate myself to do one loop of the campus.

Thursday – A scheduled rest day so I walked at lunch and then in the mall after work with my BFF.

my first holiday cup of the season

Friday – I had the day off from work so why not a 5k. It wasn’t that cold but the nasty wind made it feel that way. Still had fun running with friends and winning my age group (a glass & $15 gift card to Fleet Feet.)

27:51 finish time with an untied shoe and wind in my face 🙂

Saturday – Another rest day and time to catch up on the household chores that got ignored last weekend. I also picked up my bib for the race the next day and spent all my race winning gift cards ($25 at LL Bean, $10 at Fleet Feet & $50 at Recovery Room restaurant.)
Sunday – My favorite 15k race – the Stockade-athon. I ran it for 5th time. Stomach issues during mile 3-4 prevented me from a PR, but still enjoyed the race. I met so many friends as well as, Ed Whitlock!!!

1:32:49 ( I plan to stick to pizza for my pre-race meal)

18 miles done with 4 runs and 3 rest days.

This Week:

Monday – train to NYC, run when I get there?
Tuesday – work in NYC (rain predicted)
Wednesday – work in NYC, run before work?
Thursday – work in NYC, run during lunch?
Friday – work in NYC, train home
Saturday – 5k race with STEM + more miles
Sunday – Turkey RaffAl Run?, mah jongg anniversary dinner

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?

November 13, 2016 by Darlene

Stockade-athon 15K Race Recap

This is my fifth time running this 15k race. In 2011, my first time, I finished in 1:36:08. I was injured in 2012 and then I ran it in 2013 and finished with a disappointing 142:22.

“fake” happy

With over 2000 runners in this race, they were forced to make some changes to the course two years ago.

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

This is a description of the new course:

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

Well, I loved the new course and finished the race in 2014 with a new PR – 1:33:23

stock5

Last year, they decided to stay with the same course. Yay!! But I was training for an early December half marathon (like this year) and was shocked that I finished at 1:31:35!! Yes, a PR by almost 2 minutes …without even trying!

“real” happy

This year whose knows? Life and work have gotten in the way of my running. That means that anything could happen!!

So I didn’t expect to PR but just wanted a decent long run (and not get INJURED!!)

it’s a sleeveless cotton tank that is too big

To save time, I picked up my race packet on Saturday at Fleet Feet in Albany. I did a lot of errands and then went out to dinner with my hubby. I normally have pizza as my pre-race meal but there was none on the menu and I was starved. I had clam chowder, steak and a cronut with vanilla ice cream & salted caramel sauce for dessert – BIG MISTAKE!!

As usual, I didn’t sleep much the night before the race. I had decided what to wear but still wasn’t sure about how cold it would be. It was in the 30s when I got up but it was forecast to warm up to the high 40s. I hate this time of year. But at least there was a bag check and I could bring extra clothes for after and in case I change my mind.

My stomach was already telling me that my dinner choices were a bad idea. I was hoping that it wouldn’t affect my race.

Even though, I went to this race before, I still left extra early. I got there around 7:15 am and found a spot on the street a few blocks from the start of the race.

I walked to the YMCA to use the restroom and check my extra clothes. There I bumped into a few familiar faces. I also met someone new – a fellow Skirt Sports Ambassador and we spent a lot of time chatting.

yes, still wearing a skirt.

I used the restroom right away and was glad that I did since the line got very very long later on. It was so nice to have some place to stay warm before the race. They even had water, coffee, donuts, fruit, etc. I didn’t eat anything since I ate breakfast before I left but did take a GU.

I decided not to wear my capris nor my jacket. I kept on my gloves and throw-away shirt.

On my way out, I bumped into Judy and we walked a few blocks to the starting line. We didn’t start together but planned to meet afterwards.

during the National Anthem

The weather was actually perfect. I tossed my throw-away shirt before starting. I kept on my gloves (but they didn’t last long.)

waiting to start.

The course map:

stockade-athon

As with any big race, it was very slow going at first.

from Daily Gazette (2015)

As the map above shows, we headed west along the Mohawk River into the Stockade section of town.

photo by David Giacalone (2015)

After the bike path and the Stockade area, we ran past Union College and around various residential neighborhoods.

photo by David Giacalone (2015)

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

happy at he beginning

I was trying to keep my pace under 10 but at this point I was starting to slow down. My legs were tired. Who thought running a fast 5k two days before a big race was a good idea??!! Besides, the hills were relentless. I remember last year being able to run up them. Not this year but I gave myself permission to walk if I needed to.

still early and smiling

The worst part was my stomach. Between mile 3 and 4, I got really bad stomach cramps. I could not even run. Plus, I knew that there would not be a port-a-potty until the park around mile 7. So I walked…. and walked. (I was afraid that I would have to walk the rest of the race.)

things are starting to go south

Eventually, the pains minimized so I was able to run. I knew there would be no PR today so I just enjoyed the scenery and chatted with many runners as they went by.

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Around mile 6, we entered Central Park with its rolling hills, lake, and pretty foliage.

photo by David Giacalone

still foliage in the park – so pretty

I wasn’t concerned about my time and made sure that I stopped at all the water stops and smiled for all the photographers.

leaving the park – you can see me if you look closely

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Between mile 7 and 8 is where the BIG hills were. I ran/walked up the first one. Then I decided to run up the second because it was the last one. It was so steep that when I got to the top, my legs were jelly and I could hardly run.

At least the hills were over and I got a second wind. We proceeded to run through the cemetery and then through a park before heading DOWNHILL to the finish line at city hall.

Of course, the wind picked up and we were running INTO the wind!! But I was passing runners, even men. Pysched!

trying to pass the lady in front of me – I did not!

And when I saw the clock in the distance, I ran as fast as I could.

I finished at 1:32:49!! (over a minute slower than last year but faster than the year before)

I was happy with the results. I ran the 1st and last 5k in around 30 minutes and the middle one in around 32 minutes. That means that I was able to pick up the pace at the end.

I bumped to another Skirt Sports ambassador while waiting for Judy to finish.

two weekends in a row finding Eleonora at the finish line 🙂

I also checked the results. There was no chance of an age group award. All the speedy old ladies run this race. I think that I was 10th.

I got to see Judy finish and she PR’ed!!

another Skirt Sports photo op

Then Judy & I walked to Proctors to get something to eat. There were vegetable soup, pizza, bagels, cider donuts, fruit, chocolate milk, yogurt, and lots more.

While I was stuffing my face, I saw Ed Whitlock. At 84, he finished about 20 minutes faster than I did. (In case, you don’t know who he is – On October 16, 2016, Whitlock, aged 85, ran the Toronto Marathon in 3:56:38, setting a new world record.)

I had to pose with my idol for a pic

Before leaving, I bumped into a bunch of Strong Running Mamas and of course, we had to take another pic with Ed.

My Splits: (2014 – 2015 – 2016)

mile 1 – 8:49 – 8:57 – 9:04
mile 2 – 9:29 – 9:36 – 9:56
mile 3 – 10:03 – 10:02 – 10:16
mile 4 – 10:04 – 9:59 – 10:21
mile 5 – 9:49 – 9:33 – 9:57
mile 6 – 10:30 – 10:16 – 10:30
mile 7 – 10:35 – 10:04 – 10:19
mile 8 – 10:58 – 10:21 – 10:05
mile 9 – 10:02 – 9:38 – 9:30
.4 – 8:26 – 8:14 – 7:23

my last 5k was faster than my first 30:41 – 30:02

I really enjoyed this race (despite my wretched stomach.). The course was so varied that it also took your mind off the hills. With the large number of runners (1500), I felt like I was always running with others and it kept me going.

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

The best part of the race was that NOTHING HURT!! Not my feet, not my back…nada. I didn’t put it all out there (thanks to my stomach cramps) and I just enjoyed myself.

This race is definitely on my must-do list. It was very well organized. Maybe all the stars will be aligned next year and I’ll gun for that sub 1:30 finish.

Today I am linking up with a Sunday Fitness and Food Linkup hosted by Ilka from Ilka’s Blog and Angela from Marathons & Motivation

Happy Running! Did you run or race this past weekend? If so, how did it go?

October 30, 2016 by Darlene

Belated Runfessions – October

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

Sorry I’m a little late on this one…

I runfess…

I was in NYC for work for 5 days this past week. I didn’t bring my laptop but I did have my iPad. So I could have. But I didn’t feel like blogging. So I skipped WW, TOLT and Friday Five. Just needed a breather. Ever feel blogged out?

I runfess…

Though I was in NYC for work, my mind was fixated on “Where and when can I run today?”

It’s not easy in a strange city when you have little free time.

sometimes you just have to miss lunch

I had hoped to do the following:

run along the Hudson River
run along the East River
run to Battery Park
run in Central Park

I did accomplish the first three.

I runfess…

I ran four races this month. Remember I suffer from the FOMO disease.

even raced in these horrible conditions

I almost ran one this weekend too. But I felt guilty neglecting my mentee and her kids so I spent time with them on Saturday. I just wish my running friends would not post pix from their races on FB when I don’t run. LOL.

I runfess…

I choose my long run locations based on the post run fueling options. Don’t you?

chocolate milk and a sticky bun

I runfess…

I signed up for 6 races in November!! Yes, six! a 10k, a 15k, and 4 5ks. At least none of them is a half marathon. This just means that my long runs may be non-existent.

the Troy turkey trot 10k is one of my favorites

I runfess…

I have a 5k in NYC this Saturday. The logistics for the weekend will be crazy – getting there, checking into my airbnb apt, meeting my friend from Russia, getting my bib, getting to the race, planning a blogger meet-up, getting my luggage, getting home, etc. There’s a 5k somewhere in the mix. I haven’t given the race a second thought. It’s just for fun. I would love to spectate the NYC marathon on Sunday but I don’t have a place to stay Saturday night. (Any offers?)

at last year’s 5k

Happy Running! Anything to Runfess?

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

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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.