2025 Firecracker 4 Race Recap

              July 4, 2025 9:00 am

Many of my weekend running friends used to run this race every year.

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

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

Then in 2021,  I decided to do the race for the first time. And I loved it

So I signed up in 2022 and more of my running friends joined me

Two years ago, I convinced a few more friends to join me.

And last year, I also had company:

The group grew to 6 (Denise was there too but missed the photo)

I was hoping that they would sign up again this year but if not, I knew there would be many others there whom I knew.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Since the race was on a Friday, I was still able to get in a few short runs earlier in the week.

To save time on race day, I picked up my race packet at Fleet Feet on Tuesday.

Well, I wasn’t successful in getting the friends above to race but a few did agree to come and walk the 4 miles.

so at lunchtime I picked up everyone’s bibs and shirts.

The weather forecast:

Thursday Night -A chance of thunderstorms, mainly before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 57. Northwest wind around 6 mph becoming calm in the evening. Chance of precipitation is 30%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Friday – Sunny, with a high near 81. Calm wind becoming northwest 5 to 7 mph in the morning.

I hoped that they were correct and that it wouldn’t be too humid and we’d be done it got warm… This might have been my FIRST dry, non humid race of 2025.

As I’ve said in most of race recaps, my goal in racing these days is to do my best but more importantly, have fun and not get injured.

Race Day:

I ate my usual oatmeal and coffee breakfast and checked the weather – it seemed perfect!!

Similar race outfit since I needed to wear red, white and blue. I think I changed my shirt for this year:

The past few years, I carpooled with Heidi and she knew exactly where to park.  I was thrilled when she again offered. Deb and I carpooled and met the others  at Target (which was only a few miles from the race) at 7:45 am. Judy (former blogger) decided to come and so there were 5 of us and Denise drove instead.

We usually found parking on the street but it seemed much more crowded this year and so we had to park in the parking garage.

Then we walked toward the start…

We passed the finish line passing many runners that I knew.

Then of course, we took our obligatory pre-race photos…

And we made plans on where to meet after the race. It was cool to see how creatively everyone was dressed for this July 4th holiday race.

I was happy to see so many people racing… even more than last year (although I think they still offered a virtual option.)

There was so much excitement in the air. Live racing rocks!!

Eventually it was time for the race to start (9 am).

Heidi, Deb, Denise and Judy headed toward the back since they were walking.

I stayed toward the front and chatted with some runners whom  I knew.

Though I had run this race 4 times already, the only thing I remembered was that there was a BIG hill during mile 4.

course map

elevation according to my Garmin

Mile 1:

As I mentioned, this was a crowded race.

The bottleneck at the beginning slowed me down which was probably a good thing as I always start out too fast (and still did.).

We began running down Broadway which was a slight downhill but eventually we did hit a hill before we turned left and ran past Congress Park. I already felt the need to walk… I started thinking that this wasn’t going to be a good race…

And it seemed like everyone was passing me by but when I glanced at my watch, it showed that my pace was 9:XX minutes!! WTH?

Mile 2:

I was surrounded by runners the whole race. Several times I bumped into runners or they bumped into me.  Then again, it was a big local race with over 2300 finishers.

As we ran through neighborhoods, spectators enthusiastically cheered us on. There were musicians or bands throughout. (I borrowed some photos from FB. I hope Judy doesn’t mind).

The best part was that there were many folks spraying the runners with water as well as sprinklers set up.  I made sure that I ran through each one.

There was a water stop during this mile.  I did stop and walked for a bit to catch my breath.

I did feel a little stronger during this mile (but that was short-lived.)

Mile 3:

We ran into a few rolling hills during this mile but none too bad. As I mentioned above, there were many different groups playing music. That was a nice distraction.

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

But I started tiring and decided to just walk if I needed to.

I was surprised that there was a second water stop since the race was only 4 miles. I did appreciate it and I stopped again.

In addition to the official water stops, there seemed to be many spectators giving out bottles of water.  I did not stop at any of those since I didn’t want to carry a bottle of water or waste it.

Mile 4:

I think there was one more water stop… I was getting dizzy so I don’t really remember.

I was expecting the steep hill in the last mile. And it did not disappoint. I was wishfully thinking that I could run up the whole thing and finish strong (for once.)

Nope! I had to walk many many times.

Again this year, they gave out ice pops. I remember that it made me nauseous and I threw it away so this year I didn’t even take one.

I continued to run/walk up the hill very slowly.

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

I sprinted as fast as I could at this point.

I saw 40:xx on the clock as I crossed the finish line and was a little disappointed. I knew I was running slower and walked a lot more than the previous year but I hoped to at least finish under 40 minutes (No biggie.).

Post Race:

I wanted to watch my friends finish

First came Heidi (she had walked the first 3 miles but then ran the last one!!)

Finally the other 3 crossed…

I checked the website to see if I won an age group award. Three years ago, I came in 2nd.  The past two years, in my new age group, I came in 5th (no surprise since I had slowed down…)

Nope but I did finish ahead of Martha (but barely). 25 in my AG.

Like last year, we decided to stay in Saratoga to have brunch.  First we walked back to our cars to change into dry shirts. We also knew from previous years that the restaurants would be crowded.  So on Tuesday, I had made a reservation for 11:15.

The Merc | Saratoga Springs, NY | Brunch, Dinner, Drinks

We were early so just waited and chatted…

matching race shirts…

Worth the wait… Brunch was excellent!

Additional Race Reflections:

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

But probably the most important factors why I enjoy running this race are connecting with friends, challenging myself and the feeling of normalcy on this national holiday!

Win. Win. Win.

Positives:

  • Ample parking (parking garage and street parking, if you get there early)
  • Well marked course.
  • Lots of familiar faces.
  • Interesting course.
  • Friendly volunteers.
  • Music entertainment along the course.
  • Enthusiastic spectators (sprinklers and ice pops)
  • Easy and organized packet pick-up on Tues-Thurs and race day
  • Real restrooms before and after and ample number of port-potties
  • Two or three water stops for a 4 mile race.
  • Additional unofficial water tables.
  • Awards (3 deep) for 5 year age group awards
  • Photo Booth
  • 15% discount at Fleet Feet with your bib

Negatives:

  • Steep hill at mile 4
  • Late start – 9 am for a July race?
  • $$ for race photos

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. I enjoyed it.  I hope that I can make it work and run it again next year.

Final Stats:

2021 –36:26 (PR)
2022: 36:37
2023: 38:49
2024: 40:09
2025: 40:04

Wait!! I beat last year’s time?  Woo Hoo! (Though it was a scorcher last year..)

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

A 10 minute pace is not bad, in my mind, for a 72 year old runner who never does speed work.

No more complaining…

Next Up:

July 12, 2025

Happy Running! Did you race on July 4th?  Any summer races on your schedule? Please share.

runner-sig

 

 

 

 

 


Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).


and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

 

Weekly Run Down for 6.29.25-7.6.25: A Two Race Week

TWO races!! Crazy, right?

Well, one was Friday, July 4th, a 4 miler that I do each year.

The other was yesterday. A new fun one that I planned to run on June 21.  Date changed…

Last Week –

  • Sunday – I started the day at the gym.

The rest of the day was filled with stuff that needed to get done like grocery shopping, nails, helping my SIL with a computer project, etc.

Boating has slipped off our radar.

We did have our first BBQ on our new deck using our new grill – STEAK!!

  • Monday – A WFH week. Yay!

I got up early and went for a short run… in the ‘hood. School’s out so no buses and less traffic.

always time for flower pics…

In the evening, I had my first of 7 pickleball lessons.  I can’t say that I have any talent but I had fun…

forgot my phone so no selfie. It was harder than I thought and I’m a slow learner

  • Tuesday – Before work today, I met up my new running friend to work on speed…

I got up at 5;45 to meet her at 6:00am.  Yikes. So coffee. No breakfast =  No speed.

Actually it was soooooo humid that we walked to and from the track. Then I sorta got in 2 miles of speed drills although I doubt there was much speed.

Then I actually went into the office today and picked up bibs/shirts for Friday’s race.

I am running the race and 4 friends are walking it…

  • Wednesday – I decided to run after work today… and go to the gym before work.

Too hot! Too sunny! I Quit…

and then I met up with my BFF after dinner for a walk…

  • Thursday – REST day but finally available to participate in the ARE  Summer Trail series… but I decided to skip it and do some errands and have pizza at home.
  • Friday –   Firecracker 4 Race. I’ve run this race several times and I love it. This year as I mentioned above, my friends came to walk it.  We carpooled.

It is a very popular race and I connected with many runners that I knew. That made it fun and the hill on mile 4 was just as torturous as I remember.

After I was done, I waited for my friends and then we went out to brunch.

I spent the rest of the afternoon hanging out on our new deck with my hubby and his sister.

And it’s not July 4th without fireworks, right?

at a park just a mile from my home

  • Saturday – Indian Ladder Farms Spiked Apple 5k Race – except that being the day after a 4 mile race, I only considered it a fun run so I could enjoy the donuts and the cider.

And that was exactly what happened.

It was advertised as a 2 lap course through the farm & vineyards with both grassy and paved surfaces. Though I race often, I only recognized one person!  And the course was very confusing and 3.6 miles (LONG!).  Mostly on grass and some dirt… and you got the medal before the race!?

The donut was delish as well as the cider and I won my age group (but I was the only one. LOL).

In the late afternoon, I had my first babysitting assignment.

3 hours and no meltdowns= success!!

  • Sunday – gym, house stuff, boating??

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – tennis, hike, pickleball lesson
  • Tuesday – run. walk
  • Wednesday – run 
  • Thursday – trails
  • Friday – gym, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Silks & Satins 5k race
  • Sunday – train to NYC, Bastille Day events w/college friends

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Firecracker 4 Race Recap
  • Friday – Favorite Running Movies

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this spring? Do anything exciting on July 4th? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 


I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

I encourage you to do the same. Grab the graphic, drop your link on the host blogs and play along! Please be sure to always comment on the HOST’s blogs, as well as visit and comment on as many other blogs as you can.

2024 Firecracker 4 Race Recap

              July 4, 2024 9:00 am

Many of my weekend running friends used to run this race every year.

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

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

Then in 2021,  I decided to do the race for the first time. And I loved it

So I signed up in 2022 and more of my running friends joined me

Last year, I convinced a few more friends to join me.

I was hoping that they would sign up again this year but if not, I knew there would be many others there whom I knew.

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

pic from 2020

He went up on his own to do some repairs on the boat. Since we had planned to go on the boat after my hike the next day, he was cool with me racing today.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Since the race was on a Thursday, I was still able to get in a few short runs earlier in the week.

To save time on race day, my friend Deirdre picked up my race packet at Fleet Feet on Monday.

gender-specific tech shirt

The weather for race day: A chance of showers, mainly before 7am. Partly sunny, with a high near 84.

I hoped that they were correct and that it wouldn’t be too humid and we’d be done before the heat set in…

As I’ve said in most of race recaps, my goal in racing these days is to do my best but more importantly, have fun and not get injured. However, racing in cool dry weather, I think would be more fun. LOL.

Race Day:

I ate my usual oatmeal and coffee breakfast and checked the weather – no rain and already warm and humid… boo!

The past few years, I carpooled with Heidi and she knew exactly where to park.  I was thrilled when she again offered. Deirdre and I met her at Leah’s Cakery (which was only a few miles from the race) at 7:45 am. Stan, Sherry and Denise planned to meet us at the race.

We usually found parking on the street but it seemed much more crowded this year and so we had to park in the parking garage. Then we walked toward the start…

We passed the finish line passing many runners that I knew.

Then of course, we took our obligatory pre-race photos…

Denise was late and missed out pic

And we made plans on where to meet after the race. It was cool to see how creatively everyone was dressed for this July 4th holiday race.

I was happy to see so many people racing… even more than last year (although I think they still offered a virtual option.)

There was so much excitement in the air. Live racing rocks!!

Eventually it was time for the race to start (9 am).

Heidi, Deirdre and Sherry headed toward the back.

I stayed toward the front and chatted with some runners whom  I knew.

Though I had run this race 3 times already, the only thing I remembered was that there was a BIG hill during mile 4.

course map

elevation according to my Garmin

Mile 1:

As I mentioned, this was a crowded race.

The bottleneck at the beginning slowed me down which was probably a good thing as I always start out too fast (and still did.).

We began running down Broadway which was a slight downhill but eventually we did hit a hill before we turned left and ran past Congress Park. I already felt the need to walk… I started thinking that this wasn’t going to be a good race…

I may be in there somewhere

I was also wearing running shoes that I hadn’t worn in a while… I did wear them at this race last year and don’t remember a problem.

Blisters=big problem!!

And it seemed like everyone was passing me by but when I glanced at my watch, it showed that my pace was 9:XX minutes!! WTH?

Mile 2:

I was surrounded by runners the whole race. Several times I bumped into runners or they bumped into me.  Then again, it was a big local race with over 2000 finishers.

As we ran through neighborhoods, spectators enthusiastically cheered us on. There were musicians or bands throughout.

The best part was that there were many folks spraying the runners with water as well as sprinklers set up.  I made sure that I ran through each one.  It was very humid and very uncomfortable…

And my blisters seems to be growing…

There was a water stop during this mile.  I did stop and walked for a bit to catch my breath.

I did feel a little stronger during this mile (but that was short-lived.)

The heat and humidity was sucking the life out of me.

Mile 3:

We ran into a few rolling hills during this mile but none too bad. As I mentioned above, there were many different groups playing music. That was a nice distraction.

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

But I started tiring and decided to just walk if I needed to.

I was surprised that there was a second water stop since the race was only 4 miles. I did appreciate it and I stopped again.

In addition to the official water stops, there seemed to be many spectators giving out bottles of water.  I did not stop at any of those since I didn’t want to carry a bottle of water or waste it.

Mile 4:

I think there was one more water stop… I was getting dizzy so I don’t really remember.

And my blisters were getting more and more painful.

I was expecting the steep hill in the last mile. And it did not disappoint. I was wishfully thinking that I could run up the whole thing and finish strong (for once.)

Nope! I had to walk many many times.

Again this year, they gave out ice pops. I remember that it made me nauseous and I threw it away so this year I didn’t even take one.

I continued to run/walk up the hill very slowly.

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

a friend’s husband took this pic

I sprinted as fast as I could at this point.

I saw 40:xx on the clock as I crossed the finish line and was a little disappointed. I knew I was running slower and walked a lot more than the previous year but I expected to at least finish under 40 minutes (No biggie.).

Post Race:

I wanted to watch my friends finish

but it was getting too arm so I grabbed some water and headed to our meeting spot.

Stan finished around my time and Sherry finished soon after.

Eventually Heidi and Deirdre arrived and only a few minutes later, Denise who had walked. (She is a fast walker!!)

I checked the website to see if I won an age group award. Two years ago, I came in 2nd.  Last year, in my new age group, I came in 5th (no surprise since I had slowed down…)

5th again!

Like last year, we decided to stay in Saratoga to have brunch.  First we walked back to our cars to change into dry shirts. We also knew from previous years that the restaurants would be crowded.  So before the race, I had made a reservation in the restaurant where we ate last year.

I made it for 11 am… oops, they stopped serving breakfast at 11 am… and so lunch and drinks it was.

Additional Race Reflections:

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

Of course, I think the weather had a lot to do with my pace.  I suck at running in the heat and humidity.

Then there was the painful blisters!!

Lots of excuses. LOL

But probably the most important factors why I enjoy running this race are connecting with friends, challenging myself and the feeling of normalcy on this national holiday!

Win. Win. Win.

Positives:

  • Ample parking (parking garage and street parking, if you get there early)
  • Well marked course.
  • Lots of familiar faces.
  • Interesting course.
  • Friendly volunteers.
  • Music entertainment along the course.
  • Enthusiastic spectators (sprinklers and ice pops)
  • Easy and organized packet pick-up on Mon-Wed and race day
  • Real restrooms before and after and ample number of port-potties
  • Two or three water stops for a 4 mile race.
  • Additional unofficial water tables.
  • Awards (3 deep) for 5 year age group awards
  • Photo Booth
  • 15% discount at Fleet Feet with your bib

Negatives:

  • Steep hill at mile 4
  • Weather (hot, humid)
  • Late start – 9 am for a July race?
  • $$ for race photos

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. I enjoyed it.  I hope that I can make it work and run it again next year.

Final Stats:

2021 –36:26 (PR)
2022: 36:37
2023: 38:49
2024: 40:09

Do you see a trend?

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

A 10 minute pace is not bad, in my mind, for a 71 year old runner who never does speed work.

No more complaining…

Next Up:

Maybe a July 5k or two

July 13, 2024

and in August, a 10K and possibly a 5k before the half marathons and full marathon arrive in the Fall.

Happy Running! Did you race on July 4th?  Any summer races on your schedule? Please share.

runner-sig

 

 

 

 

 


Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).


and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

 

Weekly Run Down for 6.30.24-7.7.24: Welcome July!

The summer is flying by…

Last Week –

  • Sunday – The early morning rain stopped after I came home from the gym and we had a lovely day on Lake George.

sunshine, little breeze, lunch/beer and I read a whole book= 🙂 (and ice cream after. LOL)

  • Monday – I woke up to rain (again) so I postponed my run until after work.

a sweaty one… I so wish I had run in the morning

  • Tuesday – Too busy to run before work… but then my Internet went down so I had to race to work.  As a result, I had no time to pack running clothes.

After work, I rushed home to change clothes and meet friends to walk on the rail trail.

No RUN!!!

  • Wednesday – Rest Day before tomorrow’s race. I did go to the gym for a quick run before work (to make up for the skipped run the day before)

brought to you by flowers and cooler temps

and then met my BFF for a walk after work after a quick visit to see my granddaughter.

walking soon?

  • Thursday – For the 4th year in a row I ran the Firecracker 4.  

It was great to have a few friends join me and to see so many runners that I knew there.

The race was followed by drinks, lunch and great conversation.

  • Friday – Day Off so I could also participate in the Lake George Hike-athon again.

in the rain in 2022

This year, I invited Deirdre and Kevin and I chose Cat Mountain. It was longer and more challenging that previous hikes. and then we would join my hubby for some boating on Lake George.

Well, unfortunately Deirdre got sick and they cancelled.

I was tired and had climbed Cat Mountain many times so I decided to skip the hike and just drive up to the lake.

We barbecued, swam, napped and had a relaxing day.

  • Saturday – Long Run Day. My last week of only 6 miles.

We woke up to thunderstorms… but they were short-lived and I’ve never sweat so much during a run.

sooo humid!!!!

  • Sunday – Again the gym… not sure what is planned for the rest of the day…

This Coming Week on the Run – 

  • Monday – DAY OFF, run, hike w/friends
  • Tuesday – GYM, run, walk
  • Wednesday – run
  • Thursday – trail walk
  • Friday –  hair appt.
  • SaturdaySilks & Satins 5k, boating
  • Sunday – Train to NYC (for work), run?

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday –  Firecracker 4 Race Recap
  • Friday –  5 Fitness Goals for the Last Half of 2024

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this summer? How’s the weather been for running? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 


I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

I encourage you to do the same. Grab the graphic, drop your link on the host blogs and play along! Please be sure to always comment on the HOST’s blogs, as well as visit and comment on as many other blogs as you can.

Weekly Run Down for 7.2.23-7.9.23: And so it began…

Last Monday started week 1 of 18… Marathon Training!

I will switch Mondays and Tuesdays and cut back when Wednesdays go over 4 miles…

And my YMCA membership also began!! My goal is to workout 3x a week and run 4x a week.

Last Week —

  • Sunday – Boating cancelled due to monsoon rains… Boo!

My only option was the gym and as you read above, I did join!!!

So I did my machines and because I was not in a rush, I walked a mile on the track.

yes 14 times around = 1 mile which is why I will NEVER run here… it was above a very loud and popular Zumba class. Anyone do Zumba?

  • Monday – Normally a run day but I had signed up a race the next day so I hit the gym again before work.

After work, one of my running friends (who lives on a lake) hosted a FULL MOON party…

Well, it poured so no kayaking and then cloudy, so NO FULL MOON!

lots of good food and conversation so we still had fun

  • Tuesday – Firecracker 4 Race!

I was successful in talking 4 of my running friends into joining me (even after a late night!!)

It threatened rain but then it didn’t rain at all and the sun even came out to make this a sweat fest.

I definitely struggled but the mimosas after made me forget about my finish time…

  • Wednesday – Hike-a-thon!

This was my 3rd year participating.

My friend who usually accompanied me had to cancel but another friend agreed to come.

This year, I chose Thomas Mountain.

it was very hot but we made it up and back (3 miles).

My hubby took the day off from work and took us out on the lake.

we spent a lot of time cooling off in the water and of course, we stopped for ice cream on the way home.

  • Thursday – I started the day with a 4 mile run before heading to a funeral and then the office.

glad I did this very early and glad to have company…

I ended the day with my weekly 3 mile trail run/walk..

it continued to be hot and humid but we cooled off at a new dinner place and then ice cream…

  • Friday – Finally was able to get to the gym.

A rest day (raining on and off) with mah jongg in the evening

  • Saturday – Long Run Day!

I planned on 8 miles this week. I started running with Barbara and Stan… after 3 humid miles, I deferred to a slower pace with Heidi and Deirdre (until the last mile) and then we all had brunch.

  • Sunday – I plan to start the day at the gym and hope for a dry day to go boating…

This Coming Week on the Run (17 weeks until NYCM)– 

  • Monday – DAY OFF – run, hike
  • Tuesday – GYM, rest day
  • Wednesday -run
  • Thursday – run, trail run/walk
  • Friday –  GYM, rest day, mah jongg
  • Saturday Silks and Satins 5k (+ more miles)
  • Sunday – GYM, rest day, boating?

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday –  Firecracker 4 Race Recap
  • Friday –  Sometimes Once is Not Enough (Part 1)

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big or small races?  How are you dealing with the humidity or heat or both? Do you belong to a gym? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 


I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

I encourage you to do the same. Grab the graphic, drop your link on the host blogs and play along! Please be sure to always comment on the HOST’s blogs, as well as visit and comment on as many other blogs as you can.

Firecracker 4 Race Recap

              July 4, 2022 9:00 am

Many of my weekend running friends used to run this race every year.

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

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

Then last year, I decided to do the race. And I loved it

So I signed up again.

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

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

pic from 2018

But we went up on the lake on Sunday (the day before) so he was cool with me racing. (Plus our boat was on the DL.)

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

To save time on race day, my friend, Deirdre, picked up my race packet at Fleet Feet on Friday.

Since the race was on a Monday, I was still able to get my long run done on Saturday.

As I mentioned above, Sunday was a rest day with lots of sun and relaxing on the lake.

The weather for race day seemed great – not as cool as the year before but also not as warm as it could have been this time of year.

As I’ve said in most of race recaps, my goal in racing these days is to do my best but more importantly, have fun and not get injured.

.Race Day:

I ate my usual oatmeal and coffee breakfast and wore a tank and skirt (while trying to look as patriotic as possible)

I won the race cap in a raffle

Last year, I carpooled with Heidi and she knew exactly where to park.  I was thrilled when she again offered to meet me, Deirdre, Denise and drive us.  We all met at Leah’s Cakery at 8am (which was only a few miles from the race.)

We easily found parking on the street and walked toward the start…

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

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

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

I was happy to see so many people racing… many more than last year (although I think they still offered a virtual option.)

more friends!

No more staggered starts. Everyone just lined up together. There was so much excitement in the air. Live racing rocks!!

There was a flag from Ground Zero and a color guard in addition to the national anthem.

Heidi, Deirdre and Denise (who was walking) headed toward the back. I stayed toward the front and chatted with some runners whom  I knew.

Though I had run this race the year before, the only thing I remembered was that there was a BIG hill during mile 4.

course map

elevation according to my Garmin

Mile 1:

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

We began running down Broadway which was a slight downhill but eventually we did hit a hill before we turned left and ran past Congress Park. I already felt the need to walk… I started thinking that this wasn’t going to be a good race…

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

Mile 2:

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

As we ran through neighborhoods, spectators enthusiastically cheered us on. There were musicians or bands throughout out.  I think almost 20 (quite a few for a 4 mile race.)

The best part was that there were many folks spraying the runners with water as well as sprinklers set up.  I made sure that I ran through each one.  It was very sunny and felt much warmer than I thought it would be.

There was a water stop during this mile.  I did stop and I was happy that they had cups of water. (Last year due to Covid, they gave out bottles)

something happened to the photographer and there were no photos this year so I am posting last year’s.

I did feel a little stronger during this mile (but that was short-lived.)

Mile 3:

We ran into a few rolling hills during this mile but none too bad. As I mentioned above, there were many different groups playing music. That was a nice distraction.

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

But I started tiring and decided to just walk if I need to.

I was surprised that there was a second water stop since the race was only 4 miles. I did appreciate it and I stopped again.

In addition to the official water stops, there seemed to be many spectators giving out bottles of water.  I did not stop at any of those since I didn’t want to carry a bottle of water or waste it.

Mile 4:

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

Nope! I had to walk many times.

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

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

I sprinted as fast as I could at this point. I saw 36:xx on the clock as I crossed the finish line and was pleasantly surprised. I knew I was running slower and walked more than the previous year but my time was not as slow as I thought.

Post Race:

I immediately went to grab a bottle of water. The only refreshments were bananas and so I grabbed one. I also spotted a Ben n Jerry’s stand and got a cup of ice cream (Oops it was for parents and kids who had run the kids race…).

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

Eventually all my friends finished and they did great.

I checked the website to see if I won an age group award. Last year, I came in 4th. I was surprised that I came in 2nd (even with  a slower time this year.)

So we all hung around longer so I could get my award.

We decided to stay in Saratoga to have brunch.  We had hoped that at this point, all the runners would have left and the restaurants wouldn’t be so crowded.

Nope, they were all full and we had to put our name on a waiting list in two places before we found a table in a third outdoor restaurant.

celebratory mimosas!!!

Additional Race Reflections:

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

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

But probably the most important factor was running the race with friends and the feeling of normalcy on this national holiday!

Positives:

  • Ample parking (parking garage and street parking)
  • Well marked course.
  • Lots of familiar faces.
  • Interesting course.
  • Friendly volunteers.
  • Music entertainment along the course.
  • Enthusiastic spectators (sprinklers and ice pops)
  • Easy and organized packet pick-up on Fri. and race day.
  • Real restrooms before and after and ample number of port-potties
  • Two water stops for a 4 mile race.
  • Additional unofficial water tables.
  • Awards (3 deep) for 5 year age group awards
  • Photo Booth

Negatives:

  • Post-race refreshments (just bananas)
  • Steep hill at mile 4
  • No race photos

Would I recommend this race?

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

Final Stats:

Last year’s race was a big PR for me – 36:26.

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

a whole lotta walking going on…

Next Up:

Possibly another July 5k and definitely a 5k in August before the THREE fall half marathons arrive.


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


I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

Happy Running! Did you race on July 4th?  Any summer races on your schedule? Please share.

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Weekly Run Down for 7.3.22-7.10.22: Back to the Big Apple

There was a race and a hike at the beginning of the week and then I traveled to NYC and spent three days there.  This may have been my last time working in NYC (but who knows??) so I tried to make the most of it.

Last Week:

  • Sunday – Boating Sunday! 

The weather was absolutely perfect and we invited my stepson, his wife and their two friends out on the lake.

we drove around more than usual to show off our favorite spots…

Unfortunately, the outing got cut short as something was malfunctioning in the boat.  Hopefully it will be a quick fix and we’ll be back out there next weekend.

  • Monday – Race Day – Firecracker 4.  It was 2nd time running this holiday race. And I again had a blast.

I had convinced more of my friends to do the race with me. The weather was great. I also came in 2nd in my age group and we celebrated with brunch and mimosas after.

  • Tuesday – Lake George Hike-a-thon 2022.  I signed up last year with my friend Meg and we had such a good time that I decided to take the day of and do it again.

I signed us up for a longer and more challenging hike (Thomas Mountain).

Unfortunately it rained… well, it poured.

not much of a view and we got very wet… still had fun!

After our 3 mile hike in the rain, we had lunch at our marina and then decided to head home rather than hiking more.

  • Wednesday – Early morning train to NYC, hotel check-in and then off by subway to Queens.  It was still early enough when I returned to Manhattan to venture somewhere for a run.  The question was where to?  So many options in NYC…

You know me. It’s hard to resist a race and there was a 5k in Brooklyn at 7:10 pm.

90 degrees (and 450 runners finished) so lots of walking but when you are the only one in your AG, you win!

  • Thursday – A long day of work but the reward at the end of the day was running with friends.

and ice cream!!

  • Friday – Another long work day and train home!! Rest Day! And no race scheduled for the next day!!

After work, it was raining but I took a leisurely stroll anyway

always something interesting to see in Manhattan

And then took the train home!

the perks of the late train home

  • Saturday Long Run Saturday!

Six miles was on my plan but Sherry wanted to run 9 so I ran intervals with her and then met all my other running friends for brunch.

some friends ran longer, some shorter and some even walked…

  • Sunday –  Boating Sunday!!

Fingers crossed that the boat is fixed…

This Coming Week on the Run– 

  • Monday – DAY OFF – hike, run
  • Tuesday – rest day
  • Wednesday – run
  • Thursday – run, ARE trail walk
  • Friday – rest day, mah jongg
  • Saturday Long Run
  • Sunday –  rest day, boating

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Firecracker 4 Race Recap
  • Friday – Five Ways to Get Faster

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

I encourage you to do the same. Grab the graphic, drop your link on the host blogs and play along! Please be sure to always comment on the HOST’s blogs, as well as visit and comment on as many other blogs as you can.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any in-person races run or planned? Do anything fun for July 4th? Please share.

Firecracker 4 Race Recap

              July 4, 2021 9:00 am

Most of my weekend running friends usually run this race.

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

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

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

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

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

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

pic from 2018

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

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

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

red white and blue tank, skirt and socks

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

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

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

I actually walked on Saturday while my friends ran

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

Race Day:

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

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

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

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

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

We walked toward the start…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

course map

elevation according to my Garmin

Mile 1:

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

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

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

Mile 2:

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

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

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

mile 2- never saw that photographer

but at least I WAS running lol

Mile 3:

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

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

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

Mile 4:

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

Nope! I had to walk at least twice.

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

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

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

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

Done!!!

Post Race:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additional Race Reflections:

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

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

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

Positives:

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

Negatives:

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

Would I recommend this race?

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

Final Stats:

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

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

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

2 waterstop walks and two hill walks.

Next Up:

A new 5k on July 25,

2021 FASNY Hudson 5K Run/Walk

then another new 5k on August 8,

and a 10k on August 14.

 I ran the 5k in 2017


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


I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

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

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Rabbit Ramble 4 Mile Race Recap

No photo description available.

                    June 12, 2021 – 9:00 am

Another in-person race. Very exciting.

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

So I signed up!

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

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

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

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

my last one was in Feb. 2020.

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

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

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

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

I decided to wear my usual summer outfit:

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

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

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

Race Day:

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

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

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

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

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

We walked over to the pavilion to get our race packet

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mile 1:

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

Mile 2:

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

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

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

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

Mile 3:

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

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

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

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

Mile 4:

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

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

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

Not far behind me was Barbara.

Next came Sherry.

Then Judy raced this older guy and almost beat him.

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

Actually got it in the mail a few days later.

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

I found later that we all won age group awards.

Additional Race Reflections:

Positives:

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

Negatives:

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

Would I recommend this race?

Yes.

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

Final Stats:

Probably the most consistent splits I’ve ever had.

Although it doesn’t look that way above.

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

Believe it or not. It was a PR!

Next Up:

???

No races on my schedule until September.


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


I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

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

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Polar Cap Race Recap

This post was hard to write and you’ll see why as you read on…

You all know how much I love Lake George (at least in the summertime).  Well, this race gets me up to the lake in the winter.  Ex-blogger Andrea (now runner friend) and I have run this race together SEVEN times. She has done this race 13 times (in a row)!!!

Polar Cap - 2nd place in AG

Here we are winning AG awards in 2011

AJH got 2nd place...we won a lunch bag which matches the race shirt

AG awards again in 2013

20140201-171907.jpg

I ran with her in 2014 but only she got an award

2nd

In 2015, another hat for Andrea but my first and I beat her for the first time

I surprisingly got a PR in 2017

Together again and freezing in 2018 

a bitter sweet AG award because Andrea who was battling cancer came but had to walk the course

And yes, Andrea’s cancer diagnosis rocked my world, for sure. But she is strong and I was pretty confident that she would beat it.

I started reading her blog when I started running. She inspired me from the beginning. We are the same age exactly!! But she has run longer, farther, faster…even has competed in triathlons.

We met face-to-face for the first time at a race in 2010 and since then we have completed many races together (in addition to this race 7 times). I have even stayed at her house in VT twice.

She has also come to my area each year to participate in a duathlon. I have always come to the race to cheer her on.

But this year, for the FIRST time, Andrea did not come to the Polar Cap race.  She valiantly lost her fight with cancer and died a few weeks earlier. So I ran this race alone with a heavy heart. I ran it for Andrea…

Back to the race recap…

The thing with this race, you never know where it’s going to start and what the course will be (besides hilly.)  Three years ago, they changed the course for the third time.

20140202-204346.jpg

during the snowy 2014 race

polarcap15-4

during the cold 2015 race

getting my PR in 2017

I have not been doing any speed work at all or running on any hills. (Um …do I ever? lol) My runs on the weekend have been longish. And I have been suffering with a sore foot for it seems like forever. So as usual, I went into this race with no expectations other than to have fun and finish standing.

I bundled up in my usual running layers (2 shirts, DIY arm sleeves, vest, skirt/tights, gaiter, beanie, gloves).

I arrived around 9ish and got a great parking spot in a nearby parking lot.

Packet pick-up was again at the parish hall of the church in Lake George. This newer location was warm and had restrooms which is always a plus.

Instead of a shirt this year, they gave you a hat.

Eventually runners did arrive and I chatted with some whom I knew. It was strange not to be waiting for Andrea to drive in from VT. Definitely made me feel said…

Hi Don Yeaton (credit)

For the first time since startled running this race, it was not frigid…so I decided leave the vest behind.

We all waited until the last minute to go out into the cold. We had to walk quite a ways as the race started in town by the lake. (Since the race repeated its course, I will re-post some of my pics from previous years in addition to this year’s pics.)

There was no real starting line and the race was not chip timed. Even though I’ve run this course in previous years, I never really remember what the course was like so here is a map that I found online.

img_4026

I am directionally challenged anyway so it wouldn’t have meant much to me even if I looked at the map before the race.

waiting to begin (pic from D. Olden)

Before the they started the race, they had a moment of silence for Andrea and then announced that this year’s race would be dedicated to her.  I got pretty emotional but luckily, the race started quickly after and I concentrated on running.

My foot, in my mind, had gotten less painful but I realized that during this race, it really HAD NOT.  It hurt with EVERY step.  It made me very mad and frustrated but then I thought about Andrea and all the pain she had gone through this past year.  And I just ran through the pain. It was just a race…and I would finish it no matter how long it took.

A lot of the course was a blur, as usual, but here’s what I remember. Rather than taking pictures during this race again, I’m posting a previous year’s as they did not change the course.

16402575_10208876574492728_239505515196304670_o

pic from FB – cute markers at each mile

The first mile started with a slight uphill and then it flattened out.  I concentrated on the scenery and surprisingly, the ground was not as slippery as I feared. Still, I needed to pay attention.

img_3982

Mile two started where the race used to start and than meant a steepish hill.  I told myself to be smart since I had another half marathon in TWO weeks and I never train on hills.  However this time, I pushed myself to run slowly and not walk.  It was practically a crawl and I did it. At this point, I actually felt warm and took off my gloves. I was happy that I did not wear that vest.

img_3983

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The longest and biggest was at mile 3 and although it was only 1/2 mile, it seemed to go on forever. This time I walked/ran it. Afterward we were rewarded with a nice downhill. I am always hesitant to go all out on the downhills especially with the black ice.  One particular runner (in my age group) had been behind me (and always finishes after me) breezed by me.  As she did, she yelled “This downhill runner got you this time.”  The competitive part of me wanted to speed up and overtake her.  But my foot was killing me and I decided to just let her beat me.

Finally for mile 4, we ran along the lake and back into town.  At this point, I wanted to be done and picked up the pace. Luckily the hills were finally over. I didn’t care about a PR but I secretly want to win an AG award. But I had no idea where the other runners in my AG were in at this time in the course (besides the one who passed me by on the downhill).

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Finally, I saw that the clock ahead and it read 37:xx. I sprinted as fast as I could (as not to finish over 38:XX) and crossed around 37:55.

The runner who beat me was there gloating… “I’m so happy to have finally beat you,” she said.

It was too cold to wait around for others so I walked back to the church.

There was chicken noodle soup, bread, bagels, chocolate milk, fruit and baked goods – I am a sucker for home-made stuff and ate quite a few cookies and brownies (and chocolate-covered pretzels). I also had the soup and of course, the chocolate milk!

I chatted with some running friends while waiting for the age group awards.

next year Jill & Sue will no longer be in my AG.

And I did indeed win one…2nd and my friend Sue won 3rd.

we’re old but going strong

With a 12 mile long run on my schedule for the day, I had been debating about skipping this race. Once I found out that Andrea had died, I knew that I could not skip this race.  It was one of her favorites. I had to do it.

I debated about running more. My foot hurt…a lot but I had a half marathon to run in TWO weeks.  So changed my shoes, put my vest back on and I ran around the church area and then into town to the Winter Carnival.

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This was the first day of the event which is held every weekend in February.

I ran around town some more… for about 5 more miles.  I didn’t get my 12 miles in but 9 was sufficient in my book.

cooling off… ha ha

As usual, I loved doing the race (even with the hills and sore foot). Small local races are the best.

Race Splits:

mile 1: 9:09
mile 2: 9:37
mile 3: 9:54
mile 4: 8:58
.05: 7:11

Garmin time: 37:51
Official time : 37:55

The whole time I was running, I felt like I was going sooo slow. I couldn’t really push off my sore foot and I felt like my form was suffering as well. I also thought that my 4 mile PR was like 35:XX. I was shocked when I sat down to write this… and discovered that my PR was 37:21 and that my finish time was faster than the last two years 38:28, 38:47 (when I was healthy).