Weekly Run Down for 4.24.22-5.1.22: Just More Races

Another week, another race. LOL.

Last Sunday I ran a local 5 miler

and today I ran a local 5k.

Last Week:

  • Sunday – Delmar Dash 5 mile Race. Unfortunately not a lot of runners ran the race but it was still fun and the weather was perfect. (You can read the recap here.)

I even won my age group (my competition did not show up lol)

After the race, I ran 5 more miles so I could count it as my 10 mile long run.  That run was miserable but it’s done.

lots of walking but listening to a podcast interview with Adrianne Haslet (lost a leg in Boston bombing & hit by a car in 2019) made me forgot about my blisters…

  • Monday – #neveramonday. First the gym…

Then I joined the FTC group run after work…

I left the Advanced  group and ran on my own… too pooped for a fast 4 mile loop tonight

  • Tuesday – Rest Day.  Busy work day and a rainy one so just a walk after work…
  • Wednesday – Another gym morning.

and no, I do NOT use the treadmill… just the machines

After work, I again volunteered with the STEM runners. I arrived early to run a little… It was insanely WINDY!!! And cold!!

Back in the winter garb -beanie, gloves etc

  • Thursday – Back to the gym for day #3 but no running or walking today since I had a hair appointment after work.

I saw snow flurries!!!!

Winter has made a return…

This was around 9:30 am. It was colder when I went to gym but did warm up a little later in the day and again the WIND was insane.

  • Friday – Believe it or not, I took the morning off from work so I could do my 11 mile long run. I had planned to meet up with Stan but he had to leave early for NYC. (I am training for a half on 5/22 and he is training for one on 5/21). So I was left to run alone.

I chose a different route and started earlier..  I ran from the 11m point of my last half marathon uphill 5.5m and then back again.  I was overdressed (due to the sunshine) and it didn’t feel downhill this time.  Thanks to Ali’s podcast for keeping me sane.

it was in the 30’s but somehow felt a lot warmer…

But since I was able to finish my run earlier, I had time for a bucket list trip to Stockbridge, MA.

at Naumkeag

I wish I could have stayed longer but work was calling…

It was a beautiful weather day for tiptoeing through the daffodils (More pics on FB and IG)

In the evening, as usual, I played mah jongg.

  • Saturday – Instead of running, I met my running friends for a walk followed by brunch.

I took advantage of the new hours at the gym and worked out first…

I spent the rest of the day gardening… weeding and trimming bushes were more tiring than my long run.

  • Sunday –  Race Day!  Sasha’s Super Hero 5k – a new race for me and one that raises money for Ukraine.

The weather was perfect and over $30,000 was raised. It wasn’t an easy course but I did win my age group.

After the race, I plan to do some hiking or more gardening.

This Coming Week on the Run– 

  • Monday – gym, Freihofer Training Challenge Run (FTC)
  • Tuesday – rest day, walk
  • Wednesday – gym, STEM run
  • Thursday – run, walk
  • Friday – gym, rest day, mah jongg chez moi.
  • Saturday Prospect Mountain Road Race + 6 miles running down
  • Sunday –  Mother’s Day – Tulip Fest, dinner with fam, packing

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Sasha’s Super Hero 5k Race Recap
  • Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

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? Have you had any spring temps yet? Please share.

Weekly Run Down for 3.27.22-4.3.22: Just Running… into April

Yes. Just Running.

That means that I had no race this past weekend.

(Spoiler Alert: I will most likely racing on 4/10, 4/16, 4/24, 5/1, 5/7, 5/14, 5/19, 5/22, 5/29, 6/4, 6/5, 6/11, 6/25, 6/26, 7/4, 7/15 … Pretty crazy, right?)

Last Week:

  • Sunday – A 5 mile St Patrick’s Day themed race followed by extra miles.

The race was fun though I was crazy slow due the wind and being tired.

it started with bag pipe entertainment and I hooked with many new and old friends

The miles after the race were torture.. It was even windier and I was even more tired.

even the trees questioned what I was doing out there… lol

But 11 miles got done and that’s all that matters with a half marathon in 3 weeks!!

  • Monday – I started the day at the gym..

After work, I had to skip the FTC run in favor of a night out. But it was worth it!

Dinner first..

 my hubby took the pic

Then lots of laughs… (tix from cancelled 12/31/21 show)

15,000 attended… who knew he was so popular?

  • Tuesday  – Winter has returned along with March winds. I was planning on a lunch run. But the winds were howling and the feels like temp was still in the teens so I waited and drove to UAlbany after work to run.

don’t let the blue skies and sunshine fool you.. it was plenty windy!!

Afterward, I met my BFF for a long walk in the mall.

  • Wednesday –  Believe it or not, I again dragged myself to the gym before work.

Then I went to the FTC run after work.  It wasn’t my normal group (but actually closer to my home) but I had my missed my group run on Monday evening.  I really didn’t feel like waiting until 6 pm to run but it is so much more fun running with others.  I am glad that I waited.

ran with two really nice ladies… faster and longer than I would have if I had run solo.

  • Thursday – With rain in the forecast and an appt after work, I squeezed in my run before work. And it was actually a nice day to run… if only I had more time (and energy).

no leaves on the trees yet but I found Easter decorations…

  • Friday – Morning 3 at the gym. And finally a rest day (after three days in a row of running.)

Instead of mah jongg, after work, I went out to dinner to celebrate two friends’ job promotions. Too much food and drink but we had a great time.

  • SaturdaySaturday Long Run returned!! 12 miles was on the plan.  Glad to have company on the Zim Smith bike path followed by a lovely brunch at Leah’s.

so grateful for the sunshine and Leah’s chocolate milk

Then I got my second booster shot!! Very happy to have this option (even if I get a reaction, I want to protect my loved ones.)  Feel ok so far…

  • Sunday – I would have liked to go to the gym, but it is CLOSED on Sundays… Boo!

Instead, my plan was to go hiking (after tracking my friends running the Cherry Blossom 10 miler)

found a new place to hike… it was lovely and I got it done before the rain

and then catch up on Bridgerton…

what do think of season 2?

This Coming Week on the Run– 

  • Monday – gym, Freihofer Training Challenge Run (FTC)
  • Tuesday – gym, rest day
  • Wednesday – run, volunteering with STEM
  • Thursday – run
  • Friday – gym, rest day, mah jongg
  • Saturday – rest day – train to NYC
  • Sunday –  Shape 5.8m Race (in NYC)

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Embracing Old Age
  • Friday – Reasons to Race 

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? Have you gotten the second COVID booster (those of you who are over 50)? Please share.

Shamrock Shuffle 5 Mile Race Recap

March 27, 2022

I signed up for this race weeks ago because it’s a nice local race (actually an hour away but that’s local enough).

This was my sixth time running this five mile race. But it was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 so I haven’t run it in 3 years.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Now that I’ve run the race five times, You would think that I would be at least prepared on how the course went uphill for the first mile, some rolling hills before it went downhill and then flattened out  See below:

ss15

according to my Garmin

Race Day:

I was hoping that the weather would be a little more spring-like and I could wear a green skirt. But it was not. It was not really cold but it was cloudy and windy. So I just wore capris & compression socks with a long sleeve shirt and brought another shirt, gloves, beanie, jacket and a vest.

The race was about an hour drive from my house.  But it had a late start of 11 am so I was able to sleep in.

When I arrived, the parking lot was already full, but I found a spot on a nearby street and went into the gym to get my bib and race shirt.

cotton uni-sex again!!

I chatted with some runners that I recognized.  I also met some new faces.

re-united with my friend Sue and a new friend

Anyway, I talked to my friends for a while while being entertained by bag pipes.

With such a late start (11 am), I was already hungry for lunch by the time the race began. Luckily I had brought a GU and ate it before the race.

Soon it was time to head to the start. We waited until the last minute so we didn’t have to stand outside long in the cold. I didn’t wear my vest or jacket but added my DIY arm warmers and hoped that I wouldn’t be too cold.

There were over 300 runners for this race.  It was not run by ARE or HMRCC (my local running orgs) but Adirondack Runners… a smaller but very friendly group.  I did recognize some runners from my area though.

Since I knew that the race was not chip timed, I should have lined up closer to the front. But I was chatting and then all of a sudden, the race started.

a previous year

As I mentioned, the beginning of the race went uphill. I took it slow. But I refused to walk and tried to keep an even pace.  The wind was crazy and of course, we were running INTO it!

image

over the highway bridge (also a previous year)

But I just slogged along although it felt like everyone was passing me by.

After going over the bridge, about 1 1/2 in, we turned into the neighborhoods to some rolling hills. Phew! No more wind for awhile!!

image

no snow this year – a previous year

There was a water stop around mile 1.75, I usually stop but not today.  I was going to push it and try and run the WHOLE race.

The sun came out and now I was getting warm!! I took off my gloves and arm warmers….

Finally mile 3 arrived and that was the downhill portion of the course. I knew here that I could pick up the pace.

The second water stop was around mile 4. I was so tempted to walk a bit.  I did not but probably should have since I knew that my pace was now slowing. (Walking always gives the boost I need to finish strong.)

But I just plugged along and refused to walk until I was done. It didn’t help that we were now running INTO the wind AGAIN. How cruel…

Finally, I saw the finish line and gave it everything I had. Unfortunately, I had NOTHING left. lol

I crossed at 48:XX. I was happily surprised.  I was not expecting much under 50 minutes but I was pretty sure that I would be faster than running 5 miles in a blizzard. LOL

Post Race Activities:

Normally I would have waited for my friend, Sue but I was sweaty and getting chilled. The temperature had definitely dropped since the start of the race.

So I went inside. As soon as you entered, they had a screen with the live results.  I saw immediately that I had placed 4th (in the 10 year age group.)

10 year age groups are tough when you are at the top of the group… or if your pace has slowed to a crawl

I took off my sweaty shirt and put on the race shirt, then went into the cafeteria for refreshments. There were not much to speak of. I had a water, a brownie, a cookie and a banana.  The pastries were homemade and individually packaged. I chatted with some guys wearing Delmar Dash shirts (that’s a local race in my town.)

So no age group award for me today. But to support the other runners, I stayed for the awards ceremony.

Unfortunately, I had 6 more miles left to run after the race.  The temps had dropped and the wind picked up.  But I drove to the Zim Smith bike path (about 1/2 hour south) and dragged myself 3 miles out and 3 miles back (listening to Ali on the Run’s podcast with Betty Lindbergh. 97 year-old world record holder… so inspiring)

Additional Race Reflections:

This year with all the local races returning may be the YEAR OF THE PW!!

My current Five Mile PR is 44:53 from the Delmar Dash (2019).  But that was on a FLAT course.

My course PR (2018) for this race was 45:42.  Not even close today!

Nevertheless, I am happy with how I ran the race. I didn’t walk (which is rare for me.) I do not do ANY speed work. And I am 3 years older!!

There’s always next year (or most likely the year after) to gun for the glass.

An interesting note is that Jill (on the right), who finished in 49:25, set a course record for her age group – 70-79!! (A new goal in 2 years???)

Positives:

  • Well organized
  • Warm place to wait before and after the race.
  • Indoor restrooms
  • Charity = Special Olympics
  • Entertainment (Bag pipes before the race)
  • Many familiar faces.
  • One loop course
  • 3 water stops
  • Awards (sweatshirts, soda bread, glasses)
  • Immediate results (on a screen)
  • A LIVE race

Negatives:

  • Gun timed instead of chip-timed (from the start)
  • 10 year age groups
  • Cotton shirt
  • the wind!!
  • long drive

Final Stats:

Race Splits:

NO walk breaks!!

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. A well-organized small local race!!

Next Up?

There could be a few shorter local races but definitely this one (on the original 2019 course):

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April 16, 2022

Happy Running! How was your weekend? Any running or racing? Is it spring where you live?  Have you run any St. Patrick’s Day-themed races in March? Please share.

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So it’s Tuesday and I am linking up  with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner) for Tuesday Topics.


I’m also linking up here:

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

Weekly Run Down for 3.20.22-3.27.22: Let Them Eat Cake…

A 5 mile race belatedly to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

There was a dinner to celebrate my stepson’s and his wife’s anniversary and also a farewell dinner for a tennis friend (who’s moving). I did NOT run enough miles this week to burn off all those extra calories…

The pics above explain the title of this post. LOL

Last Week:

  • Sunday – A relaxing day (post virtual half marathon)

the day before…

After tracking all my friends who were in NYC running the live NYC Half Marathon, I drove to Saratoga Springs

 I was scheduled to volunteer for the Freihofer 5k at the Adirondack Sports Expo.

Expo REGISTRATION OPEN — Adirondack Sports

I got there early and had some delicious donut holes & spicy mocha while I strolled around Congress Park and downtown.

Then I got to hang out with some and old new friends while promoting this race (you can run it live or virtually for only $22 – that includes a shirt and a medal – AMBDC is the discount code)

I gave out free shirts and free cookies

  • Monday – I actually worked at an in-person training today (yup wore real clothes and make-up).  Then after work, I participated in the first of 11 Freihofer Training Challenge (FTC) runs.  As a Ambassador for the race, I was just there to support and to have some friends to run with. (Admittedly it is a pain to drive there and wait until 6 pm to run).

lots of familiar faces – ran with the “advanced” group – so so windy!!!

  • Tuesday  – I was able to squeeze in a run at lunch

don’t let the sun fool you, it was windy!!

Well, I went to the gym … to pick up my membership card.

Bethlehem YMCA - Capital District YMCA

I have FREE 12-week membership at the local YMCA as part of the FTC.  Now I just need to go…

  • Wednesday –  I waited until after work to run.  I wanted some different scenery so I drove to the Albany end of the rail trail.

It was awesome which meant I kept stopping to take pics lol

  • Thursday – I started the day (6:30 am) with an orientation at Y. A perfect activity for a rainy rest day.

Now I need to commit to 6:30 am workouts here on non-running days… 3x week!!

After work, I went out to dinner for a farewell party. One of my tennis friends is moving to NC.

  • Friday – A busy work day but I managed to squeeze in a short run at lunch.

50s – perfect weather for a run… wish I had more time

After work, another dinner.  This time at my MIL’s to celebrate my stepson and his wife’s 3rd wedding anniversary.

  • Saturday – Started the day at the gym!

My plan was to work out at 6 am, then meet friends at 8 am followed by brunch.

Only the Y opens at 8 am on Saturdays not 5:30 am (as it does on weekdays).  D’uh.

Since I had a race the next day, I only walked 3 miles and obviously not as far as planned. Still met at 10:30 for brunch.

  • Sunday –  Race Day. Shamrock Shuffle 5 Miler. 

 during a rainy 2019 Shamrock Shuffle

This is a race that I’ve done many times in the past but not since 2019.  The plan is to have fun and have enough energy left to stop on my way home at the Zim Smith bike path and run 6 more miles…

windy but fun

not fun!! but done…

This Coming Week on the Run– 

  • Monday – Freihofer Training Challenge Run, gym, dinner out and tix to a comedy act with friends & hubby
Sebastian Maniscalco Coming To The UBS Arena - The Wave

re-scheduled from 12/31/21

  • Tuesday – rest day, run
  • Wednesday – run, dinner out with friends
  • Thursday – run
  • Friday – rest day, gym,  mah jongg
  • Saturday Long Run (12 miles)
  • Sunday –  rest day, gym, hiking

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday –Shamrock Shuffle Race Recap
  • Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

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

Electric City Five Miler Race Recap

Run 2022!! Events Calendar for the Year! :: Hudson-Mohawk Road Runners Club

In 2021, this inaugural race was my second local Pandemic race, It was run by ARE, the same company as the previous race I ran (and the following half marathon).

yes in 2021, you had to wear a mask at the start and finish.

I signed up again for this 5 mile race because I am a sucker for a race, any race.  Many of my friends have lost interest in racing but I knew that I would know many of the runners at the race from past races. It would be fun to re-connect.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

My speedwork has been non-existent and my pace has slowed to a crawl.  So I entered the race will zero expectations other than being out there running with other runners.

After running THREE half marathons in 5 weeks, I was kinda glad to run a shorter race and cut back on those long runs.

Here was the snag:

Yes, I wavered back n forth. Should I stay home or should I run the race? Will the paths be slippery?  Will the drive home be treacherous?

Although this race was the FIRST big local race of 2022, for me, it was not a big deal.  I had already, as I mentioned, run THREE big races already this year.

I picked up my race packet on Thursday, just in case.

This time of year is tricky to decide what to wear. It could be winter frigid or what they call in “fake spring.”  I tried to remember what I used to wear to race at this time of year.  (I seems to have dressing amnesia.)

Past March 5 mile races:

This is what I wore to this race last year (on a cold March day):

In the end, I decided on something very similar:

in hindsight, I should have worn trail shoes (for better traction)

But of course, with rain/snow in the forecast, I needed to being a rain jacket for before and dry clothes for after.

There were many posts on FB assuring us that things would be safe – ice cleared from the paths, puddles drained, a dry area to gather before and after.

I was not nervous about running the race but I was about driving. So I contacted my friend Lara and asked her if she wanted to carpool.  She accepted and has a large truck and so she agreed to drive, as well.

Race Day:

I got up early, had my habitual race breakfast (oatmeal & coffee) and met Lara at 8am at a nearby park n ride. It was raining and had just started to snow lightly.  Fingers crossed that it wouldn’t be too bad until we got home.

I had been to Mohawk Harbor (where the race started) before but I still wanted to leave early. We arrived around 8:30 and parked in casino hotel parking garage. (The race didn’t start until 9:30.)

Lara picked up her bib in the first floor of the parking garage. We chatted with some other runners.  There were many (like over 300) crazy runners like me. We were allowed to wait in the casino hotel and use their restrooms.

So we were nice and toasty warm… little did we now what was happening outside.

 We hung out until the last possible moment.

Around 9:25, I had to head to the race start area and shiver with all the other runners. It was snowing and very windy. I was glad that I decided to wear my rain jacket.

Course Map:

It was advertised as “mostly flat and relatively fast course uniquely includes 2 crossings of the Mohawk River.” But we all know that means there are hills. Ii really did not remember the course from last year.

Believe it or not, I actually wore my Garmin, I didn’t look at it at all during the race since it was only 5 miles and there were mile markers but no water stops.  But I wanted to see my splits afterward.  My goal was to run consistently but not hard. Not slip and fall!!!

I don’t remember the course in detail since it was snowing the whole race and quite slippery.  At times, I just wanted to get done. But it was varied and lots of river views.  If it weren’t for the weather, I would have enjoyed the scenery even more.

Mile 1:

I started with Lara and two of her friends.  I ran with them most of the race.

You’ll notice in the FB pics below that the faster the runners were, the less clothing they wore…

I must admit that I was cold.  My hands and feet were numb and I didn’t warm up until mile 3. I am rarely cold when I run but it was so windy and snow was blowing in my face.

We started out near the water and I think that made it feel even colder. We even crossed the river during this mile.  I made sure that I didn’t start out fast. That was very easy since it was slippery and I wanted to make sure that I didn’t wipe out.

Mile 2:

It was still windy but not as cold during this mile since we were no longer running along the water.  Of course, there were some hills during the race but nothing that was so steep that I had to walk.  Remember I rarely do any running on hills (except in races, it seems).

And it was snowing harder. I had to run with my eyes closed most of the time since it was stinging my contacts. (I tried wearing my sunglasses but they got covered with snow and that was worse.)

Mile 3:

At one point, we were running on a path and there were big potholes full of mud. The court marshals had thankfully warned us all about it.

This mile has a few downhills and again we headed toward the river. In fact this mile ended on the bridge going over the Mohawk River. I continued running slowly and there were a few times that I almost fell but caught myself.

Mile 4:

The bridge was uphill but then there was a nice downhill.  We were also finally running with the wind at our backs.  I almost warmed up.  (I may have taken off my gloves at this point.) Of course, one of the course marshals announced that “it was downhill from here.” Not true. It’s never true. Next we ran through the old Stockade area before we hit riverside again.

At this point, there were actually runners who had finished and were re-running the course in the opposite direction (Huh?!)

Mile 5:

I felt like I was getting slower but I hadn’t walked yet. There were no water stops so no temptation to walk. I considered walking for a bit now since it might have given me a second wind. But I wanted to get to the finish line and get out of the miserable weather so I just kept going.

Finally the finish line was in sight. I ran as fast as I could in the slippery icy snow.

As I crossed, the RD, Josh (who knows everyone’s name) announced my name and said he hoped to see a recap of this race on my blog!?  (I really didn’t think most people knew I have I blog, not even my hubby is aware.)

Post Race Activities:

It was too nasty to hang out and cheer on the other runners so I took a quick pic of Lara and her friends

and we went inside the parking garage to take some goofy pics

and get some refreshments.  Last year at this race, you were given a boxed lunch but today instead, there were tables of pastries, muffins and quiches

refueling with carbs

We headed back inside to the casino hotel where it was warm so we could to eat and chat about the race.

Lara was excited that one of volunteers did not want the shirt and gave it to her

We all agreed that it was fun in spite of the weather.

Additional Race Reflections:

This was the first local race of 2022.  Most of our races are coming back.  There is still some hesitation by some runners.  It was so fun to be out there and soak up the racing atmosphere again. Now if only, we could get some mild sunny temps for a race…

Positives:

  • Discount to ARE members
  • Optional race shirt.
  • Participant manual and lots info before the race
  • Ample parking.
  • Real restrooms (in Casino Hotel)
  • Dry, warm place to hang out before and after the race.
  • Well marked course.
  • Varied scenery including river views
  • Lots of course marshals
  • A real race.
  • Well organized.
  • Familiar faces
  • Free photos
  • Post-race food

Negatives:

  • No water stops (in this weather though, it was not necessary)
  • The Wind!
  • The Snow!
  • No age group awards.
  • Post-race food (my preference would be bagels, fruit & chocolate milk)

Would I recommend this race?

Yes.

It was super well-organized. Special attention was paid to EVERY detail. It will be even more fun when there are nicer weather conditions.

Final Stats:

first negative split race, I believe!

slow day even for the oldies

Obviously this was a 5 mile PW. Almost 4 minutes slower than last year and about 7 minutes slower than my PR.  I blame mostly the weather.

Splits:

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

No walk breaks!!

The drive home was pretty scary.  I was relieved that I was not driving.  We passed many cars that had gone off the road.

I arrived home safely.

and enjoyed a nice long shower and some hot chocolate in front of the fireplace.

I obviously would not be running more miles for a long run.  That would be postponed until the next day when hopefully, it would be warmer, less windy and the roads cleared.

Next Up:

I plan to run a Virtual Half Marathon next weekend.

Then another 5 miler in two weeks and a 5 miler a month later (both were cancelled in 2020 and 2021 so this is very exciting).

Then in between, there’s the Druthers Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon (on its original downhill course).

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April 16, 2022

Happy Running! Have you run a 2022 race yet? If so, how did go? Are you planning to run one soon? Would have run this race in the weather than I mentioned or would you have DNSed? Please share.

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


I’m also linking up here:

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

Weekly Run Down for 3.6.22-3.13.22 – Springing Ahead

Not Spring yet (two days of snow this week):

but we did gain an hour of daylight. Woo Hoo!

Grateful that Trader Joe‘s can provide me with some joy during weeks like this…

Last Week:

  • Sunday – Re-scheduled Long Run and we actually enjoyed spring-like weather.

and yes I celebrated post run with ice cream and yes, I was over dressed. There were runners shirtless today. Check out that cute snowman on the bottom left.

  • Monday – #nevermissamonday became a rest day and a rainy one.

pre-knitting lunch – tasted as good as it looked

Perfect weather for spending the afternoon knitting with friends.  I worked on this hat in support of Ukraine:

It’s not finished yet and I’m adding some accents with gold yarn.

  • Tuesday  – Busy work days mean post-work runs. I try to vary my location each day. Today was on the rail trail (whose snow had finally melted on part of it) But what a windy day!!!

got 1 1/2 miles in before the path turned to ice

  • Wednesday – Another after work run was planned.  The weather did not get the message, Snow/sleet predicted for the evening so I had to run during lunch.  Snow blowing in my eyes… roads getting more slippery by the moment..

the good news was that I stayed upright and it was way worse after work

  • Thursday – Since I planned to meet my BFF for a walk, I ran after work at UAlbany. Fortunately, they do clear and salt the paths.

made a new running friend.. and we planned some more runs together

  • Friday – Rest Day since I had a race scheduled for the next day and mah jongg in the evening.
  • SaturdayElectric City Five Miler – Did I DNS? 

Rain. Snow. Gusty winds. Slippery paths. Oh, my!

I’m not a wimp.  I have run in many a half marathon in the pouring rain.  This was the first local race of 2022. Many runners I know were so anxious to get out there and race.  But I had already run THREE half marathons this year.  And I had a 10 mile training run on my plan.

If the weather were nice, I would not have even hesitated and I would have added on 5 miles afterward.

Yes, I ran it. I convinced my friend Lara to drive. It was lots of fun. The drive home was the worse part.

the finish line!

 After a long hot shower and hot chocolate, finished my hat in front of the fireplace:

  • Sunday – Hooray for an extra hour of daylight each day. This will be greatly appreciated as I do many of my runs after work. (Though I didn’t enjoy losing ONE HOUR of precious sleep last night.)

Since I did not do my long run due to the weather, I planned to run today. It was cold and windy but at least the sun was out.

The problem was that the streets were full of slush, puddles and black ice.  So frustrating. I zigzagged in the roads looking for dry footing but finally quit after 5 miles.  5 miles on Saturday and 5 miles on Sunday = a 10 mile long run, right?

I spent the rest of the day doing errands that did not get done the day before…

This Coming Week on the Run– 

  • Monday – run, Zoom w/college friends
  • Tuesday – run, Zoom w/running friends
  • Wednesday – rest day, hair appt
  • Thursday – run
  • Friday -rest day, mah jongg
  • Saturday Runnin of the Green (4 miler) + 7 miles) Virtual NYC Half Marathon (if weather cooperates)
  • Sunday – rest day (unless it is raining on Saturday), volunteer for Freihofer 5k at the Adirondack Sports Expo

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Electric City Five Miler Race Recap
  • Friday – Things I’m Loving Lately

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?  Has your weather warmed up? Ever DNS a race due to weather? Do you ever split up your long runs into two days? Please share.

Electric City Five Miler Race Recap

Image result for electric city 5 miler

March 13, 2021

This was my second local Pandemic race, It was run by the same company as the last one I ran (and my next half marathon).  So I was familiar with all the restrictions – masks at start and finish, no water stops, staggered start, etc.

Nov 2020

I signed up for this 5 mile race because I am a sucker for a race, any race.  Most of friends have lost interest in racing but I knew that I would know many of the runners at the race from past races. It would be fun to re-connect.

the good old days – no masks and standing close together

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

My speedwork has been non-existent and my pace has slowed to a crawl.  So I entered the race will zero expectations other than being out there running with other runners.

I picked up my race packet on Thursday (in the rain) after work but then was treated to a rainbow.

This time of year is tricky to decide what to wear. It could be winter frigid or what they call in “fake spring.”  I tried to remember what I used to wear to race at this time of year.  (I seems to have dressing amnesia.)

Past March 5 mile races:

In the end, I decided on this:

possible additions were a shirt underneath, calf sleeves, DIY arm warmers and maybe a vest or jacket

Race Day:

So I got up early, had my habitual race breakfast (oatmeal & coffee) and hit the road.  I had never been to Mohawk Harbor where the race started so I left early. I arrived around 8:15 and was able to find a parking spot on the street instead of in the parking garage.  I was going to walk to the start and hang out but it was freezing!!! And windy!!

probably should have checked the weather before I left my house

So I just sat in my car to stay warm and watched many of the crazy runners who was doing their warm up runs while I finished a book that I was reading:

Bravey by Alexi Pappas: 9781984801128 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

Loved it!! if you haven’t read it yet, you should!

I texted my friend Karen and she was doing the same thing, staying in a car until the last minute.

Around 9:00, I had to head to the race start area. On the way, I bumped into Karen.

obligatory pre-race photo

She headed to the restroom and I shivered with all the other runners waiting for my corral to be called.

courtesy of The Daily Gazette

At 9:30, corral 1 started.

and yes the fast runners did wear shorts…

Things moved so quickly that I almost missed my start. I was in corral 4 and ran over just as they were saying: “Last call for corral 4!”  In each corral, you lined up by your letter – 6 feet apart and 6 feet from the runner in front and behind you. Masked had to worn all the time except when you were running (if you were not within 6 feet of someone else).  Every 10 seconds, another group of 6 started. I was in position F and started around 9:37.

Course Map:

It was advertised as “mostly flat and relatively fast course uniquely includes 2 crossings of the Mohawk River.” But we all know that means there are hills.

Believe it or not, I actually wore my Garmin, I didn’t look at it at all during the race since it was only 5 miles and there were mile markers and no water stops.  But I wanted to see my splits afterward.  My goal was to run consistently and not hard.

I don’t remember the course in detail since I had never run here. But it was varied and lots of river views.  If it weren’t for the insane wind, I would have enjoyed the scenery even more:

Mile 1:

and I’m off…

I must admit that I was cold.  My hands and feet were numb and I didn’t warm up until mile 4. I am rarely cold when I run but it was so windy.  We started out near the water and I think that made it feel even colder. We even crossed the river during this mile.  I made sure that I didn’t start out fast.  Actually I’m not sure I remember how to run fast.  So I just sauntered along enjoying the sunshine and views of the Mohawk River.

Mile 2:

It was still windy but not as cold during this mile since we were no longer running along the water.  Of course, there were some hills during the race but nothing that was so steep that I had to walk.  Remember I rarely do any running on hills.

Mile 3:

I didn’t see this photographer so I’m surprised that my form isn’t too bad lol

This mile has a few downhills and again we headed toward the river. In fact this mile ended on the bridge going over the Mohawk river.

Mile 4:

The bridge was uphill but then there was a nice downhill.  We were also finally running with the wind at our backs.  I almost warmed up.  (I may have taken off my gloves at this point.) Of course, one of the course marshals announced that “it was downhill from here.” Not true. It’s never true. Next we ran through the old Stockade area before we hit riverside again

Mile 5:

I felt like I was getting slower but I hadn’t walked yet. There were no water stops so no temptation to walk. I considered walking for a bit now since it might have given me a second wind. But I wanted to get to the finish line so I just kept going.

Finally it was in sight and you had to put on your mask.  My gaiter was all twisted in my hair so I did have to stop and try to pull it up over my month and nose (not sure if I succeeded lol).

very excited to see that finish and maybe chick that guy!

priorities … gotta stop that watch!

done!!! smiling under my mask!

I bumped into a few runners that I knew and we hung out cheering the other runners on.  I wanted to wait for Karen anyway.

cute outfit and probably kept him warm.

Finally she was in sight.

We even made the highlight video!!

One of her friends handed me this since it matched my outfit, she said:

it was yummy

I was getting pretty chilled so I proceeded to get my food (which was a bagged lunch of a turkey/cheese sub, potato chips, cookies, and fruit) and headed to my car.  It was just too cold to eat outside or to go have a beer.

There were no age group awards so I didn’t need to stick around for those either.

On the way home, I decided that I had enough energy to run 5 more miles.  That’s crazy.  But I did it on the “flat” rail trail with lots of walking and a stop to eat my post-race lunch.Additional Race Reflections:

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

Positives:

  • Safety restrictions in place (staggered starts).
  • Ample parking.
  • Real restrooms (in Druthers restaurant)
  • Well marked course.
  • Varied scenery including river views
  • Lots of course marshals
  • A real race.
  • Well organized.
  • Familiar faces (under the masks)
  • Post-race food.
  • Free Beer (in Druthers)
  • A real race.

Negatives:

  • No water stops
  • The Wind
  • The Cold Temps
  • The shirt (white cotton blend)
  • No awards

Would I recommend this race?

Yes.

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

Here’s some media coverage of the race:

MacAdam: Electric City 5 Miler was a breath of fresh air

Final Stats:

 

My finish time was more than 2 minutes slower than both 5 milers that I ran two years ago. In fact, this was a PW for this distance. It was slower than my first 5 mile race in 2010.

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

and he didn’t run ten miles!!

Next Up:

There is a local 5k but I have not registered so as of today, it’s the Druthers Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon. (on a revised course – same course as the Fall Classic)

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April 17, 2021


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


I’m also linking up here:
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with co-hosts Coach Debbie RunsConfessions of a Mother RunnerMile by MileRuns with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

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

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Delmar Dash Race Recap

It is nice to run a race that is only 10 minutes from your house.

This is my 7th time running this race. In 2017, my back was bothering me so I didn’t run it and in 2012, I had a broken ankle. Otherwise, I try to run it every year. If you notice by my clothes, the weather has gotten colder every year.

It is a flat course so my times have been fairly decent:

2019 – ??
2018 – 45:09
2016 – 47:14
2015 – 45:26
2014 – 48:14
2013 – 47:39
2011 –  47:08

Now only if spring would arrive. We’ve had a few warmish days but not today (but not as cold and windy as it could have been.)

It’s always hard at this time of year to decide what to wear.  Too cold for spring clothes but I am tired of jackets and tights. I opted for a DIY arm warmers with a short sleeved shirt, a skirt with compression socks, a cap & gloves and hoped that it would be enough.

I got there early. I knew a few people doing this race so I went inside the school to look for them.

The race started on the street but ended in front of the school entrance

My hubby picked up my bib the day before so I didn’t need to arrive early today.

I had to exchange it because they gave him a Men’s Small not a women’s Small.

As soon as I arrived, I bumped into Karen and we chatted for a bit.

I also chatted with several other runners that I knew. Because of the local half marathon scheduled for the next weekend,, there weren’t as many runners as usual. probably around 250.

It was chilly outside so we waited until the last minute.

My hope for the race was to have a decent finish time. That would be under 50 minutes. I had a surprise PR last year and I doubted that I could beat that especially without doing any speed work and my recent calf injury.  Besides, I wanted to stay healthy for my half marathon NEXT SATURDAY!!!!!

Thanks to the Spotlight News for these online photos

I lined up with some faster runners including Anne and Carolyn who is in my age group. But I forgot that they do not use chip time – just gun time for this race.  I should have lined up closer to the starting line.

why didn’t someone tell me the tag was sticking out from my cap??

and Judy checking her watch?

Of course waiting for the race to begin, I was cold but I was fine as soon as I started running.

SPOTTED: 2019 Delmar Dash

I tried to start out fast but not too fast.  Though I never know what this is. And I probably did since my legs seemed to have zero energy today. (Those 10 miles walking the day before may have had something to do with it LOL)

I tired with each mile but tried my best to keep it up. Carolyn was my beacon. I tried to keep her in my sight although I know I would never catch up to her. Well, I did eventually lose her.  But Karen caught up to me and then she passed me as well.

happy Karen who got a PR

There was clocks at every mile so I knew that I was probably running too fast. And the sun came out. And I was PERFECTLY dressed (for once).  I even took off my sleeves and gloves.

I also noticed Luis, whom I work with, he was ahead of me.  I tried valiantly to stay with him.

By the water stop at mile 2.5 or so, I was tempted to walk but again as I did last week, I decided to push it and NOT walk at all.

The clock at mile 3 told the bad news – a 5k PR.  To me that meant that I would probably die soon.

I saw my Freihofer coach shortly after that who yelled that I should lay on some speed since there was only ONE MILE left.  I yelled back “Very Funny…TWO miles left.”

Carolyn in pink

So I tried to chick a guy with long grey hair and a beard …and I did.

I crossed the finish line at 45:XX (Officially 45:15). 

I waited until Judy finished and then went inside to get some food. I had some soup, bread, birthday cake and hot chocolate. Judy got a massage which I never do but the line was not long and it was free ..  so I did too.

we obviously like that Skirt Sports pattern

I came in 5th (out of 9) in my age group.  Boo.. the prize was a red glass!

Splits: (according to my Garmin)

mile 1- 8:52
mile 2- 9:00
mile 3- 8:48
mile 4- 9:13
mile 5- 8:58

44:53 – unofficial PR

Since this course is flat and near where I live, it is still one of my favorite races and I will run it again next year. I am really happy with my time…because I had ZERO calf pain!!!!!!!!!!!!

As I mentioned, I have a big race on Saturday…with having only run 6.5 miles the preceding week, I felt like I needed to add some miles to the legs.

I drove to the rail trail.  Lots of runners and bikers were out on this gorgeous day.  I had thought about 5 miles but I barely completed 4 (with lots of walking).

the only flowers we see up here are painted ones…

That makes 9 miles for the day… and

ONE WEEK until my next half marathon.

Image result for helderberg to hudson half marathon

April 13, 2019


There is now a new link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with these ladies.


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

 Happy Running! How was your weekend? Any running or racing? Would you race the week before a big race? Do you add on miles to a race to make it a long run?

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Weekly Run Down for 4.1.19-4.7.19: Back to Normal

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No work travel. No funerals. No weddings. Just the normal runs and a race.

One week to go…Half Marathon #36.

Last week

  • Monday – So today was week 3 of the Freihofer Challenge Training (FTC) group.  Again, I was tired from running both Sat (6.5 miles) and Sunday (5 mile race). There was no way, I wanted to participate in the Advanced group’s speed drills. So I just ran with the Beginner Group and chatted with a friend Denise.

still cold and windy!! No sign of spring yet.

  • Tuesday After three days in a row of running, I took a rest day. I also had a follow-up appt with my Chiro. I had been going to her 2x a week for a month. Now I skipped 2 weeks and I was interested to see how my leg reacted. She said it looked good, do some more ART and we discussed just maintenance from now on (monthly/before a big race). I did stop off at the gym on my way home and used some of the arm machines (that I have been neglecting).
  • Wednesday – I took my first lunch time walk in forever.

My FTC group also runs together at various locations on Wed. I have never joined them but I decided to go to the one near my home. Holy wind!!!! I ran a mile searching for the group and then followed the Advanced group fro 4 miles around the neighborhood. I was the slowest by far but one runner slowed down to run with me. We chatted and it is good to sometimes get out of your comfort zone.

  • Thursday – Met up after work with a few the Sole Sisters, It was nice catching up since I hadn’t seen them in a while. The run was a painful one…my lower back ached with every step. (It’s always something.)

om our usual UAlbany route

  • Friday – A rest day because I was hosting mah jongg (and had to clean the house & shop LOL)
  • Saturday -. I originally thought that I may do a long run today but a young friend from Russia contacted me to say she was in NYC for a week. You can guess what happened. Two of my friends (who had gone to Russia with me) and I headed down to NYC to see her. We spent the day walking and eating around the city. First to Madison Sq Park, then to Chelsea for lunch, after lunch, Washington Sq Park & Village for ice cream, followed by a walk along the High Line, a visit to Hudson Yards.

10 miles on the feet the day before a race but worth every step

  • Sunday – Race Day – Delmar Dash. This 5 mile race is annual for me since it is the closest to where I live. I was tired from traipsing around the city all day the day before but I do have a half marathon in ONE WEEK.  So I ran it and as usual, I was glad I did. No PR or AG award but time connecting with friends, free food and a massage 🙂

actually a Garmin PR but the race was only gun timed

After the race, I dragged my tired quad to the rail trail for 4 more miles.

Then later in the day I rested at the movies.

Image result for gloria bell

Shamrock Shuffle Race Recap

I signed up for this race weeks ago because it’s a nice local race and my running friend Laurie and I always do it together.  I wasn’t thinking about the fact that I would have run a half marathon 2 weeks before and that I would working on LI for three days before, as well.

If you’ve read my recap for the United Half Marathon, you know that I ran it but was under-trained due to nursing a calf injury.

Nevertheless, I decided that this race would be a good opportunity to test the leg and get in some speed work.

This was my fifth time running this five mile race.

Now that I’ve run the race four times, You would think that I would be at least prepared on how the course went uphill for the first mile, some rolling hills before it went downhill and then flattened out  See below:

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Last year, I had a course PR.  Of course, I forget to look before the race to see what that time actually was. I also knew that it was not a 5 mile PR.  That was done at the Delmar Dash and I also did not remember my time for that race either.

I was hoping that the weather would be a little more spring-like and I could wear a green skirt. But it was not. It was not reslly cold but it was RAINING and windy. So I just wore capris & compression socks with a long sleeve shirt and brought another shirt,  gloves and a rain jacket.

The race was about an hour drive from my house.  But it had a late start of 11 am so I was able to sleep in. When I arrived, the parking lot was already full, but I found a spot on a nearby street and went into the gym to get my bib and race shirt.

another cotton shirt to give away

I chatted with some runners that I recognized including Sue who I’ve run several NYC races with, Maureen and some others.  I also met some new faces.

I had thought about bailing on this race but went because I told my friend Laurie (who doesn’t race often) that I would run it with her.  Guess what? She bailed.

us last year

Anyway, I talked to my friends while being entertained by bag pipes.

With such a late start (11 am), I was already hungry for lunch by the time the race began. I wish I had brought a GU.

Soon it was time to head to the start. We waited until the last minute so we didn’t have to stand outside long in the rain.. But someone said the rain had stopped so I ditched my gloves and jacket (a BIG mistake).

By the time the race had started, the skies opened up and it was pouring again.

There were usually over 300 runners for this race but I guess the rain scared off about 100 (and they moved the date back a week and it clashed with several other 5ks yesterday). Since I knew that the race was not chip timed, I should have lined up closer to the front. But I was chatting with Maureen and then all of a sudden, the race started.

last year (when it was NOT raining)

As I mentioned, the beginning of the race went uphill. I took it slow. But I refused to walk and tried to keep an even pace. At first, I tried to keep up with Maureen but she was too fast and I never lost her completely but she got farther and farther ahead. My legs felt sluggish the WHOLE race. Most likely because I had run 6.5 miles the day before (3 of them uphill).

image

over the highway bridge (2015’s pic)

Although it was in the high 40s, it was raining and WINDY and I was COLD and my hands were freezing.

After going over the bridge, about 1 1/2 in, we turned into the neighborhoods to some rolling hills. I could still see Maureen way ahead. But there was no way I could catch up to her. She became my beacon for the whole race.

image

2015’s pic

There was a water stop around mile 1.75, I usually stop but not today.  I was going to push it and try and run the WHOLE race. The sooner I finished, the sooner, I could get warm and out of my soaking wet clothes.

Finally mile 3 arrived and that was the downhill portion of the course. I knew here that I could pick up the pace.

The second water stop was around mile 4. I was so tempted to walk a bit.  I did not but probably should have since I knew that my pace was now slowing. (Walking always gives the boost I need to finish strong.)

But I just plugged along and refused to walk until I was done. It didn’t help that we were now running INTO the wind.

Finally, I saw the finish line and gave it everything I had. Unfortunately, I had NOTHING left. lol

I crossed at 46.21. I was happily surprised.  I was not expecting anything under 47 minutes.

beautiful day for a race …NOT!!

Normally I would have waited for Sue but I was cold and wet. The temperature had definitely dropped since the start of the race.

So I went inside. As soon as you entered, they had a screen with the live results.  I saw immediately that I had placed 4th (in the 10 year age group.)

I couldn’t wait to change into dry shirts and socks/shoes. (I wish I had had dry pants too).

Then I went to the cafeteria for refreshments. They were not much to speak of. I had coffee, a brownie, a cookie and a banana.

So no age group award for me. But my friend Maureen did win 2nd so I waited around for the awards ceremony.

Race Splits:

mile 1- 9:14
mile 2- 9:17
mile 3- 8:51 (downhill – yay!)
mile 4- 9:13
mile 5- 9:30 (tired legs)

46:06 according to my Garmin.

My current Five Mile PR is 45:09 from last year’s Delmar Dash.  My finish time last year for this race was 45:42. So no course PR either.

Nevertheless, I am happy with how I ran the race. I didn’t walk (which is rare for me.) I do not do ANY speed work. And I ran 6.5 miles the day before. I’m glad that I decided to run the race.

My long run for the weekend was Sat -6.5 and Sun – 5 = 11.5 total miles

There’s always next year to gun for the glass and the bread…


So it’s Tuesday and I am linking up  with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner) for Tuesday Topics.


I’m linking also up with Coaches Corner–Debbie, Susie, Lora, and Rachel!

and Wild Workout Wednesday with Nicole, Annmarie, Jen, and Michelle.

Happy Running! How was your weekend? Any running or racing? Is it spring where you live?  Have you run any St. Patrick’s Day-themed races in March? How do you feel about racing in the rain.  Would you have bailed?

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