August 23, 2017 by Darlene

France Run 8K Race Recap

If you read my blog, you may know that I LOVE anything French!!!!

Well, I was a French teacher for over 20 years, spent my junior year of college studying in Nice, France and have visited Paris many many times (but not since 2000 😦 )

Anyway, I also love NYC and running in Central Park.

So it was a no brainer to sign up for this race. I mentioned it to Sue who ran the Shape Half with me in NYC and she agreed to come along.

me & Sue the day before the Shape Half

Thank to numerous trips to NYC for work, I had enough points for a free train ticket and a hotel room for $99. Sweet!!

Of course, I knew that the race would be a hilly one (see map below) but at least I would only have to run 4.9 miles since the race was only an 8K.

yes, there are hills!!!!

We decided on an early train on Saturday so we would have a full day in the city.

As soon as we arrived, we headed to the hotel to drop off our bags and then to pick up our race packet. We walked, of course, and I didn’t wear flop flops this time.

I did wear sandals that are normally sooo comfortable and they were for a few miles until the blisters set in!!!

Packet pick up went smoothly and when we were done, we walked/limped back to the hotel. (a mere 30 blocks).

As we checked into the hotel, a couple who was leaving gave us two unlimited subway passes. Score!

I changed into my race sneakers (reluctantly) and we hopped a subway to City Hall Park where we ate lunch and then walked across the Brooklyn bridge. (If you never have, you should!!)

After our leisurely walk across the bridge, we walked around Brooklyn Heights and stumbled up the ferry to Governors Island. It wasn’t part of the plan (actually we didn’t have a plan LOL) but for a $1, why not?

It was a great decision and I definitely want to return and rent a bike and see more of the island than we had time for on foot. (The last boat to return to Manhattan was at 6pm.).

notice that we both had changed into running shoes

Rather than returning by boat to Brooklyn, we took the boat to Manhattan and walked back to our hotel.

can’t complain about this view…

We had already walked 13.1 miles (on the day before a race) so we opted to stay near the hotel and found an awesome Italian restaurant to carb load (Yes, I carb load for 5 miles!) I had beet salad and pasta – both were yummy!!

It was such a warm evening that we sat outside until it was bedtime.

Flat D is ready to go

We got up the next morning around 5:30 am. Breakfast at the hotel did not start until 7 am. Too late for us since we were planning on leaving the hotel at 6:30 am for our 8 am race. Our hotel was so sweet that they packed us a breakfast to go – bagel, cream cheese, yogurt and an orange.

Don’t worry. I didn’t eat it and had my usual oatmeal and coffee pre-race breakfast. We wisely decided to save our legs and grabbed a subway to the start. Plus, it was already 73 degrees at 6 am and HUMID!!!!!!!!!!!

we were quite early

We got there early, walked around the park and met so many friendly runners.

There were almost 5000 racers and the air was buzzing with excitement.

We used the porta-potties and eventually headed toward the corrals.

some runners did warm-up exercises – not moi!

They started at AA and we were I and K but we both decided to line up in I. We made a plan to meet after the race by the volunteer check-in (Sue does not carry her phone.)

The race began with La Marseillaise (loved this) and then our National Anthem. It took us 8 minutes to get to the start line and we immediately got separated. Sue used to be faster but now I run faster than she does.

My plan was … no plan. Finish strong. Not get injured. Walk on the hills. Have fun! (Spoiler alert – I did all of these.)

Mile 1: We started on East Drive near East 67th Street and ran north, running UP Cat Hill. It was steep and I walk/ran it. This was a good thing because having a hill in the first mile, made sure that I didn’t start out too fast and die. It was warm and I was sweating. But at least, the route was shaded by trees. I almost always made sure to run all the tangents. Although, this was a big hill, it didn’t seem as intimidating as when I ran it as part of the Shape Half. Even with walking, when I ran I was passing runners all the time. Maybe because I started in corral I and was running with slower runners. But it felt good.

Mile 2: Then we continued along East Drive and passed the Reservoir on our left. (one of my favorite places in the park to run.)

This mile wasn’t as hilly but it certainly wasn’t flat. Again, I was able to pass runners. I think I missed the first water stop, but I made sure because of the humidity to stop and walk at every water stop after mile 1. And there was one at every mile.

I wonder how long I was running with my skirt tucked into my belt???

Mile 3: We passed the 102nd Street Transverse on the left and ran down, then UP Harlem Hill. Holy cow! What a hill! I walk/ran this one too. Then we continued past Lasker Rink. This mile was similar to the first mile – walk/running the hill, walking at the water stop and running and passing runners when able.

Mile 4: More rolling hills as we headed south on West Drive. My legs were ready to be done! But there was a lot of crowd support throughout the course. And because the trails in the park are open for runners that aren’t part of the race, they were running on our right (there were cones separating us) and often yelled support. I was hungry at this point so ate the Gu that I had in my pocket.

Mile 4.97 (8K): We enjoyed too short a downhill, then a flat section. Finally we turned left onto the 72nd Street Transverse and finished just west of Bethesda Terrace. I gave it all I had (which wasn’t much at this point) as I crossed the finish line.I know they said it was only a 8k. But I ran ALL the tangents and my Garmin registered 5.05 miles!!!!

a sweaty mess (and my skirt still tucked into my belt!!)

I really didn’t care about my time. I knew that it was a lot slower than other 5 mile races that I had done. And there would be no age group awards anyway.

5m PR is 45:26 but I am very happy with this time!!

Race Splits:
Mile 1 – 9:14
Mile 2 – 9:04
Mile 3 – 9:35
Mile 4 – 9:38
Mile 5 – 9:18
.05 – 6:40

7th out of 62 isn’t too bad (would have been 3rd for age 65)

So I just grabbed water and a bagel and headed toward the Nuremburg Shell (entertainment, booths, etc.)

The lines were long but I did decide to wait on one to get some French cookies before I went off to find Sue.

After Sue and I met up, we were disappointed to find them calling out numbers for the raffle prizes. I mean, it was still early and many many runners were still on the course. You couldn’t put your ticket in until you finished so I guess if you are slow, you can’t win. They had also ran out of some of the other food samples.

No other complaints. It was a fun and well- organized race. Would I recommend this race? Oui. Oui.

Of course, we couldn’t wait to re-fuel so we left the park and started walking back to the hotel. We stumbled upon a French restaurant so we stopped. It was perfect!!!!

: cafe au lait

: lemon pancakes

After a shower and change of clothes, we were back on the streets of Manhattan. Sue had never been to the High Line so we decided to go there, walk the whole thing and then go to Chelsea Market. One of the highlights for me was on our walk back to the hotel (yes we were STILL walking), we found a milk bar (cereal milk is the best tasting soft ice cream ever)

Finally we grabbed our bags but still had time to kill before our bus back home. So we took the subway to Bryant Park and had a snack for dinner. Our last excursion for the day was a subway ride to the bus stop (leaving our subway passes off with 2 happy teenagers!)

15.3 miles for day!!!! Whoa! Tired legs!

We spent the bus ride home trying to figure out our next NYC race adventure – NYC Half in March or hopefully the Brooklyn Half in May????

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

coachescorner

Happy Running! What is your favorite city to race in?

April 25, 2017 by Darlene

TOTR: April Report Card

So spring finally did arrive. Although it did waver back and forth throughout most of the month.

Here’s how April turned out:

Weekday Runs:

Although we had quite a bit of rain. I was able to run at least 3 times outdoors each week which is great because I do not have a treadmill at home.

I ran at UAlbany (near work), at the Crossings, near home, in a local park and even at the Corning Bike Path.

The good news is that it stays light out longer so I don’t have to run in the dark and can run longer after work. Since the snow has melted, I also have more choices of places to run.

I ran alone some of the time. But Alyssa was able to accompany me once a week. It’s definitely more fun running with friends.

I continued to attend the Monday sessions of the Freihofer Run for Women Training Challenge. Coach Patrick put us through those speed drills that I normally would never attempt on my own.

: week 5

I also started my volunteering stint with the STEM runners this month. The clients run three time each week. I attended two Wednesday sessions. May will be our big month since the race is in early June.

: week 1, day 2

Long Runs:

I will end the month with a half marathon and so I tried to squeeze in some miles on the weekends to prepare for it. There were no uninterrupted long runs so my training definitely was lacking.

: 5 mi + 5 mi = 10 mi

: 5k + 7 mi = 10 mi

: 8k + 6 mi = 11 mi

: 5k + 6 mi = 9 mi

Total Mileage:

I ran 102 miles this month. I am pleased since I increased my mileage from last month (thanks to running a half this month) and it’s my highest mileage in a long time.

April Miles

Races:

I had five races on my schedule this month – two 5ks, a 8k and a half marathon but I DNSed on one (a 5 miler)

I was sad that a backache forced me to DNS at the Delmar Dash (one of my favorite local races). However, I was generally happy with how the other races went. The Bacon Hill 5k was cold and windy which helped me run fast. The Code Blue race was quite hilly and my first 8k. I really enjoyed this race and did better than I expected. The Lake George 5k was also hilly but one of the most scenic places to run and I won my age group. The Shape Half was one of my toughest halfs to date but I finished so I was very pleased and the weekend in NYC was fun.

Did not expect any PRs and I didn’t get them.

: 27:32 – course PR & 1st AG

: 27:53 – 1st in AG

: 2:20:49

Cross Training:

I still play tennis (indoors, of course.) I am scheduled to play two Tuesdays a month but with work and other stuff, I only played once this month.

I did go to work out at the gym several times. My goal was twice a week, though. I didn’t quite achieve that.

I did walk several times a week at lunch for 30 minutes – around the outdoor shopping mall. Not everyday like I used. But more often since the weather has cooperated.

Other News:

I’ve gone out to dinner quite a few times with different friends (maybe too many times LOL). It seems to be how we make time to catch up when our lives are so busy. You have to eat, right?

I also got to hear the amazing Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor speak.

: dinner with the hubby

: seder with my mah jongg buddies

: dessert with an old friend

: movie & dinner with tennis friends

: lunch with boating friend

Running is not my whole life. I think it is important to make time for other things that bring you pleasure.

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

My next half marathon is May 21 in Adams, Mass. It is flat and on the same course as my PR (Ramblefest in October).

My annual tennis vacation in Naples, Fla is coming up. Lots of girl-time scheduled.

And it’s my BIRTHDAY month!! (May 9)

I have quite a few races planned. My race season just kicked into high gear.

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

(tennis trip to Florida 5/3-5/10)

5-6-17 – Tropicool 5k (in FL)?
5-13-17 – Summer Smith Memorial 5k
5-14-17 – Mother’s Day 5K?
5-18-17 – Workforce Challenge (3.5m)
5-21-17 – Steel Rail Half Marathon
6-03-17 – Freihofer’s Run for Women 5k
6-11-17 – Run for Hope (volunteer with STEM) or Betar Byway 5k & Moreau Mile??
6-17-17 – Run for the Ages 5k* or Good Karma 5k*??
6-25-17 – Adirondack Distance Run

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

No monthly goals.

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

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

Today’s Topic is: Give your running month a letter grade.

I’d say overall an A-. I think that I improved from last month – more miles, some drills, some gym time. Still room to grow.

What do you think?

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

April 16, 2017 by Darlene

Code Blue 8K Race Recap

I could have taken the weekend off and have done my 12 mile long run. I also could have run an easy 4 mile race that I have done before.

But no. I like a challenge so I signed up for this race. All I knew was what it said on the website:

This challenging course is intended for competitive participants. The course is front and back loaded with rolling hills as it winds through Saratoga’s east side, it evens out with just over 5K left as you approach the City’s beautiful Spring Run Trail and finishes back at High Rock Pavilion.

Here’s the Course map:

and the Elevation:

Yeah, right. Perfect for a runner who hates hills.

I told myself that it wouldn’t kill me (and hopefully not injure me) and I would be better prepared for hilly Central Park in two weeks.

What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger… And with quite a few women over 60 entered in this race, this one also wouldn’t tempt me to run for an award (and it was a medal of which I had enough…now if it were food, a different story.)

The plan was to take it slow. I’ve never run an 8k so an automatic PR, right?

How far is an 8K, anyway?

Well at least it was less windy than last weekend and this race was a little closer to my house (about 45 min.)

Again I tried to wear spring running clothes. I was determined to pretend that it is warm enough. (It was near 80 this past week.)

Well, when I arrived, it was in the 30’s so very chilly. I wore a shirt under my long-sleeved shirt, had gloves and a jacket. But there was no wind and it was sunny. That would make a huge difference over last weekend.

I got there pretty early, found parking in the hotel parking lot and went inside the hotel to pick up my race packet. (Real bathrooms, yay!)

short-sleeved tech shirt but it is uni-sex so too big 😦

I went back to my car to stay warm. At the last minute, I decided to shed my jacket and walked to the starting line down the street in front of the Farmer’s Market location.

In honor of the race’s charity (Code Blue Saratoga offers emergency shelter to individuals who are street homeless or might otherwise remain unsheltered during nights of extreme cold and heavy snow), I did wear blue.

I also bumped into some familiar faces from previous races but not as many as usual because this race was far from where I live (and many of my friends were running the local Rabbit Ramble race.)

My friend Tom (4th from left) was running with this group

I did eventually find Judith and we started together as we did last weekend.

I was warned about the hills in this race plus I didn’t want a repeat of last weekend’s performance (no energy for my extra post-race miles.)

I made a conscious effort to run the first mile slow. After that I didn’t have to try since there would be numerous water stops and several steep hills to slow me down.

photo from the Daily Gazette

As soon as we started, I lost Judith in the dust. That was expected. She is super speedy. We started with a slight uphill but nothing steep. I’ve become lackadaisical about my running, I think. I never double-knotted my shoes and even before we finished the first mile, one came untied and so I stopped and re-tied both of them.

Mile 2 arrived with our first big hill. I managed to shuffle my way up it without walking. The rest of the race continued with uphills and down hills. There were many twists and turns which made it interesting.

Toward the end of mile 3, we ran on a paved bike trail and then one more hill before we ended up right where we started.

photo from the Daily Gazette

There were many water stops and I quickly stopped at a few but the amazing part was that I ran up all the hills (a first, I think for me). And I had a lot of energy during the last mile.

So it turns out that an 8k is almost 5 miles.

I didn’t look at my Garmin at all during the race so I was surprised that it was almost 45:XX when I saw the finish line.

Official stats say, I crossed at 46:26 (but my Garmin says 46:01). I was happy. It was much faster than I expected especially since I was trying to run slow.

I quickly made a beeline for the food. There was the usual energy bars, bagels and fruit but also rice and beans and chocolate milk (I had 2 of each).

Judith and I hung out waiting for the awards. She won 2nd but I was 4th. I guess you can’t always win (besides it was just a medal.)

I was too sweaty to wear my long-sleeved shirt

some speedy old ladies that I don’t recognize

This race is definitely on my to-do list. I enjoyed the challenge of the hills (and they’re weren’t as bad as I feared). I liked the variety of the course, as well.

Splits:

mile 1 – 9:08 (much slower than last week’s 8:30)
mile 2 – 9:22
mile 3 – 9:29
mile 4 – 9:38 (positive splits 😦 )
mile 5 – 9:14 (better!)

46:01 (Garmin time) My most recent 5 mile race time was 46:10 and my PR is 45:26 (on a flat course)

Of course, after a race, no one wants to go back out there and run 7 more miles. But I was determined to get the miles in. My run was so horrible last weekend that I did not have high hopes for this week’s.

After a long chat with Judith, she recommended that I run at Saratoga Spa State Park. So I headed there.

I parked by the Gideon Putnam hotel so it would be easy to find my car again. It’s a big park and I don’t know it well.

My plan was to run 7 miles. I stumbled upon a 5 mile trail and decided to run that first. It was really nice and I tried to follow the red signs so I wouldn’t get lost.

Around two miles in, I took a detour because I saw an interesting spring and another trail.

Well, I got too cocky with the trail running and down I went…HARD. Lots of folks around the spring offered their help. I was bleeding badly and it covered my nice white socks. But I fell right near the fountain from the spring. I rinsed my knee and my socks. A nice passer-by gave my tissues and another band-aids. So I was good to continue my run. Even if I couldn’t, I still had to get back to my car.

I went back the original trail and tried to continue but somehow, I never got to 5 miles. Only 3. But I decided to stop in the park office since I was still bleeding and the band-aids were not doing their job. They gave me alcohol to sterilize my wounds and more band-aids.

and I’m ready to run

I wasn’t lethargic like last week but it was getting rather warm and my leg was still bleeding so I continued running on the park roads, the bike path and made a loop back for only another 3 miles.

So not the 7 miles that I planned but considering the circumstances, I was happy to have 11 (interrupted) miles on my legs. (I WILL NEVER DO A TRAIL RACE!!)

After a nice long shower, I got my nails done, went grocery shopping, had dinner and then went out for drink and dessert with a friend.

I think this is appropriate for the day 🙂

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

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

Happy Running! How was your weekend? Any running or racing? Ever run an 8K? Anyone combine their long runs with a short race? Have you ever fallen while running on a trail?

April 3, 2017 by Darlene

Running Update: 3.27.17-4.2.17

Last Week:

Monday – Tonight was the second Freihofer Challenge Group run. It rained all day but luckily it stopped by the time of our workout.

Nice 5 mile run with friends.

Tuesday – Another rainy day but it was a rest day. I did play tennis after work and of course, went out to dinner afterwards.
Wednesday – I took the day off and caught up on things at home that I have been neglecting and as soon I saw a bit of sunshine, I took off to squeeze in a short run and then hit the “free” gym. I needed it since that evening I had my monthly dinner out with the tennis ladies (and we went Italian!!)

it was only in the 40s but was tired of waiting to wear a skirt.

Thursday – Again this week, I met Alyssa for a run at the Crossings. She had already run 10 miles by the time I got there so we were only able to run 4 together and then I ran 2 solo. Not one of my better runs but got it done before the predicted storm.

did you notice how Alyssa’s shirt matches my socks?

After the run, I met my BFF who has been on vacation for a few walking laps around the mall to catch up.

Friday – Again a rest day (and a snowy/rainy one, yes, I said snow!!) since I was hosting mah jongg and I needed to shop and clean.
Saturday – I had planned to go to the gym twice a week but this was my first time this week at this gym. I worked out on the machines and it was pretty painless.

I wanted a spring cup 😦

Then I did some retail therapy and picked up my bib for Sunday’s race.

And of course I had to carb load.

Sunday – I planned to race the Delmar Dash today. It’s one of my favorite local races because it’s near my house and I know so many of the runners. But my lower back had been achy for 2 days so I made the tough decision to DNS. I ran the course slowly after the race had started, visited with friends, ate cake and then ran 5 more miles. I was solo so it was not much fun. But the weather was perfect. My back is still sore but not worse, I hope.

sometimes you have to listen to your body….

4 more weeks to go!!

24 miles done with 4 runs and 3 rest days

This Week:

Monday – FRW Training Group Run (4 miles)
Tuesday – rest day, gym?, Judge Sotomayor event
Wednesday – 6 miles with Alyssa
Thursday – 3 miles
Friday – rest day, gym?, mah jongg
Saturday – Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k + 8 miles
Sunday – rest day, gym?

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

Happy Running! How is your running going? How is your running weather?

April 2, 2017 by Darlene

Delmar Dash 5 Mile Un-Race Recap

If you look at the title, you’ll see that it says UN-RACE. That’s because I ran the course but I did not run the race.

This is one of my favorites courses because I am familiar with the streets, it is flat and it is only 10 minutes from my house.

This would have been my 6th time running this race.

: Delmar Dash ’16

: Delmar Dash ’15

: Delmar Dash ’14

: Delmar Dash ’13

: Delmar Dash ’11

But I didn’t. Saturday morning when I got up, my back was really painful. I thought that it was odd since the only thing I did on Friday was sit, sit at work, sit at mah jongg. (Too much sitting??)

I went to gym and only did the arm machines, went shopping, etc. My back continued to ache.

I still planned to run the race. I picked up my race packet and even went out to dinner.

long sleeved women’s tech shirt 🙂

I got up Sunday morning and my back was even more sore. It hurt to stand and walk.

So I got dressed, had my pre-race breakfast and contemplated what to do.

I knew that I should not run the race and potentially make it worse (and maybe interrupt my half marathon training.)

I could have just run it and not race it.

But I know myself (hey, I raced on a broken foot, stress fracture, etc.). I knew if I started the race, I would run it as fast as I could…trying to PR and win an age group award.

So I made the tough decision – NOT to run the race!!

I’m even in the FB cover photo. 😦

It was hard. You know how I love to race. This was a flat course. And to make matters worse, for the first time in weeks, it was a perfect racing day. 40’s and sunny!!

With weather that awesome, I could not sit home so I drove to the race start but arrived about 1/2 hour after it started. That way, I would not be tempted to run it. I parked on the street and started to run the course.

The race started on the street but ended in front of the school entrance – previous year’s pic

I ran it slowly. Chatted with all the volunteers and tried to stay on the course. Since I was last, they had started removing the signs. I didn’t wear my bib but I wasn’t even last. One very very old guy finished after me.

That’s me. I think I stopped to watch the kids racing

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to run with Barbara but I did see her as she was leaving. I am so happy that she is healthy again.

I did stop inside to chat with all my friends who had just finished. I even had cake and hot chocolate. (I mean I did pay for the race.)

Of course, I checked the results. Darn, those usual speedy ladies didn’t run and for the first time, I may have won an award in this race. (I finished a hillier 5 mile race last week at 46:09.) But then again, you never know.

Anyway, I still needed to run 5 more miles…ugh!!

Last year, Judy and Barbara kept me company. But this year, I was solo.

I left my car where it was and headed into town. Then I cut over to the rail trail.

My run was slow but I listened to some podcasts and eventually completed 5 miles.

Yes, my back continued to ache but the pain was bearable and felt better the more I ran. (Soaking in the hot tub later helped too!)

10 miles done… 4 weeks until my next half marathon.

Let’s hope I don’t have any more setbacks.

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

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

Happy Running! How was your weekend? Any running or racing? Ever DNS in a race? Back pain anyone?

April 1, 2017 by Darlene

Ultimate Coffee Date – April

Confessions of a Mother Runner

Since today is the first Saturday in April, I am joining up with Coco & Deborah for their ultimate coffee date.

Over coffee or tea…

I’d tell you that I signed up for my free 6 month gym membership. My goal of using the machines twice a week hasn’t happened yet but I did go last Saturday and I plan to go today. It’s a start.

6 mos free gym – but their selection of classes is lacking and my membership does not include the pool, hot tub & sauna 😦

Over coffee and tea…

I’d tell you that the gym mentioned above offered a free fitness analysis (E3) so I signed up for it. They test for strengths and weaknesses, etc. Well, I have weak hip flexors. No surprise. But I have a strong core. They were surprised that I could plank for one minute. LOL.

Over coffee and tea…

I’d tell you that that part of the E3 analysis was a body analysis. Green is normal so I guess I should be happy there.

But here’s the bad part, I got WEIGHED! My scale has not had a battery for a very long time so I can’t weigh myself. I like it this way. Ignorance is bliss.

But now I know. And I don’t like it!!! I’ve never weighed this much!

The guy who weighed me said that I don’t look like I weigh that much. It must be muscle. He was being nice.

Over coffee and tea…

I’d tell you that I was a little upset about my weight gain.

Don’t worry. It didn’t last long. That same day, I had popcorn at the movies and went out for pizza.

I went out the next night (for shrimp & hard cider). Tuesday after tennis, I went out and had salad & pizza and then on Wednesday, I went out and ate pasta and birthday cake.

Life’s too short. A girl’s gotta have fun.

Over coffee and tea…

I’d tell you that I have a race scheduled for EVERY weekend. I know I am supposed to be training for a half marathon on April 30. But I can’t help myself.

It’s not a good way to get in those long training runs.

Tomorrow and next weekend, I am running two of my favorite races – Delmar Dash (5 miles) and Bacon Hill Bonanza (5k) instead of 10 and 11 mile long runs. So I just have to add more miles after the race (and eating and standing around). Not ideal, coach!

Over coffee and tea…

I’d tell you that I almost left April 15 open for a long run and to do my taxes but I found a new race – an 8k.

its a challenging hilly race and automatic PR 🙂

Happy Running! Got anything to spill?

March 27, 2017 by Darlene

Running Update: 3.20.17-3.26.17

Last Week:

Monday – Tonight was my first Freihofer Challenge Group run. It was fun to see everyone from last year’s advanced group. We hugged and chatted and then just ran 30 minutes easy.

Tuesday – I don’t usually run three days in a row, but an arctic chill was forecast so I ran a quick one near work before tennis 🎾

Wednesday – Spring but felt like winter…9 windchill!!!

Yeah, I took a rest day and went out to dinner with a former co-worker.

Thursday – I met Alyssa for a run at the Crossings. As usual it was good one.

Friday – I had planned on a short run but it was damp and rainy so I went to the gym and activated my free 6 month membership.
Saturday – I went to the gym for an evaluation, had an orientation and actually used the machines. I have no elaborate plans for working out but I am going to try to use the machine 2x a week. We’ll see.

In the afternoon, I went to the movies with friends (instead of the Hot Yoga fundraiser for STEM.)

it’s a thriller but I liked it.

Afterward, we got pizza (another fundraiser for STEM.)

carb loading for my friends running a half marathon LOL

Sunday – I ran the Shamrock Shuffle race today. The rain held off until after the race:) and it was a fun 5 miler. I even won 3rd in my age group.

a medal & Irish soda bread was the prize 🙂

After the race, though I didn’t feel like it, I ran 4 more miles so I could get in 9 for the day. And in the rain.

I celebrated my successful running day with some wine out with a friend. (No need for a reason for wine actually.)

5 more weeks to go!!

21 miles done with 4 runs and 3 rest days

This Week:

Monday – FRW Training Group Run (4 miles)
Tuesday – rest day, tennis
Wednesday – 3 miles, dinner with the tennis ladies
Thursday – 6 miles (with Alyssa?)
Friday – rest day, mah jongg chez moi
Saturday – rest day, gym?
Sunday – Delmar Dash race + 5 more miles

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

Happy Running! How is your running going? How is your running weather?

March 26, 2017 by Darlene

Shamrock Shuffle Race Recap

This was my third time running this race.

Previous finish times – 2016: 46:28, 2015: 46:29

: 2016

: 2015

So it looks like I have been pretty consistent. Not sure what this year would bring. Most likely not a PR (Delmar Dash: 45:26 in 2015). But if I finish under 50 minutes, I’d consider it a good race.

Now that I’ve run the race twice, I would be at least prepared on how the course went uphill for the first mile, some rolling hills before it went downhill. See below:

ss15

I am always a bit nervous about those hills and trying to run fast. Plus I wanted to have enough energy to run 4 more miles afterward as I am training for another half marathon in 5 weeks.

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 COLD but as cold as two weeks ago at the Runnin’ of the Green race. So I just wore tights under a skirt and several layers.

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. Everyone hung out in the gym waiting for the race to start.

another cotton tee for my running buddy

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

Then I bumped into Laurie from my Turkey Trot training group a few years ago. We talked for a 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 so I took a GU.

I was undecided about what to wear, as usual. It was cold and damp and looked like it would start to rain at any moment. In the end, I decided on a hat, 2 long sleeved shirts and gloves. (I left the jacket inside for later.)

Soon, we headed for the start. We waited until the last minute so we didn’t have to stand outside long in the cold.

It was not chip timed so I lined up close to the front.

As I mentioned, the beginning of the race went uphill. I took it slow.

I always look happy when I see the photographer. The lady behind me is one year away from my age group and is super fast.

over the highway bridge (2015’s pic)

Although it was around 30, it was humid and there was no wind, so I took off my gloves and unzipped my shirt. I could have gone with one less layer.

2015’s pic

At first water stop around mile 1.75, I walked a bit. Then I continued running until we got the downhill portion.

Mile 3’s downhills gave me a boost but again at the second water stop around mile 4, I walked again for a little bit.

After that, I just plugged along and refused to walk until I was done.

Finally, I saw the finish line and gave everything I had.

Of course, I tried to beat that young runner (18 year old) to the finish line. And I did!! (barely)

I crossed at 46:10.

I waited around for Sue and Laurie to cross and then went inside to the cafeteria.

The refreshments were not much to speak. I had a brownie and a banana and chatted with Laurie.

We then waited in the gym for the results to be posted. The previous two years, I got 3rd. I doubted that I would win again but you never know when you’re in the old ladies group. But I did!!

In addition to a medal, you got a loaf of Irish soda bread.

I’m still 63 until May.

Splits:

2015 / 2016 / 2017

mile 1- 8:55 / 9:10 / 9:13
mile 2- 9:31 / 9:30 / 9:16
mile 3- 8:58 / 8:52 / 9:01
mile 4- 9:35 / 9:24 /9:17
mile 5- 9:19 / 9:27 / 9:18

chip time- 46:09, garmin time – 46:08

I enjoyed the race (I enjoy them all) and was happy about how I did considering I do NOT do any speed work. It was not a PR but it was actually a course PR, 20 seconds faster than last year. I was expecting to be a lot slower. I was glad that I didn’t push myself because I had planned more miles for the day…

Though I was tired and cold, I drove to the Zim Smith Trail. As soon as I got there, it started to rain. I so wanted to leave but it wasn’t raining hard so I just slowly dragged myself along for 4 more miles.

: the trail is mostly clear

: just a few icy spots

: it was chillier than during the race

One of the perks of the trail is that you can park next to a bakery.

So yes, I’ll be back to the run on the trail and back to sample more of Leah’s baked goods. Today, I was cold so just had soup.

So I got my 9 mile training run done. It just had a 1 1/2 hour break in the middle.

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

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

Happy Running! How was your weekend? Any running or racing?

March 7, 2017 by Darlene

TOTR: Spring Race Plans

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

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

Today I am going to share with you my Spring Race Plans.

I mean spring will be here soon. Although we have actually had spring temps this winter LOL

I’ve already run in a skirt several times!!

I hope that you don’t expect me to discuss ALL my spring racing plans…

3-05-17 – Treasure Coast Half Marathon (in FL) – this past weekend
3-11-17 – Runnin’ of the Green (4m)
3-26-17 – Shamrock Shuffle (5m)
4-02-17 – Delmar Dash (5m)
4-08-17 – Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k
4-15-17 – Code Blue 8k
4-23-17 – Lake George 5k
4-30-17 – Shape Women’s Half Marathon (in NYC)

Tennis vacation in Naples, FL 5-03-17 to 5-10-17

5-13-17 – Summer Smith Memorial 5k
5-14-17 – Mother’s Day 5K
5-18-17 – Workforce Challenge (3.5)
5-21-17 – Steel Rail Half Marathon (in Adams, MA)
6-03-17 – Freihofer’s Run 5k
6-11-17 – Betar Byway 5k/Moreau Mile
6-17-17 – Run for the Ages 5k

Here are the highlights:

Treasure Coast Half Marathon – a Race-cation in Stuart, FL – 13.1 miles, visiting with 4 non-running friends who live nearby, my first Mets spring training game (recap coming soon!)

Delmar Dash – a local 5 miler (closest race to my house) and a popular one with the local runners

Bacon Hill Bonanza – a very scenic and well-run 5k or 10k in the country (great post-race food).

Shape Women’s Half Marathon – a girls weekend (so far there are 3 of us plus some STEM runners) in NYC and my first race in Central Park.

Steel Rail Half Marathon – in Mass and on the same course as the Ramblefest Half that I ran last October. It’s flat and scenic.

Freihofer Run for Women – I’ll join the training group again. This is my only racing streak. It’ll by the 10th year running this 5k race with 4,000 of my closest friends (ha ha).

Betar By-way 5k/Moreau Mile – another scenic 5k and 1 mile race.

So the scheduled topic is how do you create your race schedule.

I do race a lot and I am fortunate to have many to choose from between March and November. My only problem is that work and finances get in my way of running many destination races 😦

Here are some of the factors that I take into consideration when I make up my schedule:

Choose races that I’ve run before and have enjoyed
Choose new races that have been recommended to me
Choose races that are within an hour’s drive
Choose races that other friends are running
Choose destination races where I can stay with a friend (or share a hotel room)
Run at least 3 half marathons a year
In the summer, choose races that are on the way to our marina (so north)

Happy Running! What races are you looking forward to this spring? How do you create your racing schedule?

May 17, 2016 by Darlene

TOTR: Picking your races

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

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

Well, both.

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

my favorite destination race

my favorite local race

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