May 2, 2018 by Darlene

Cherry Blossom 5K Race Recap

April 29, 2018 10:15 am

This was the fourth year that I have run the Cherry Blossom 5k. It is a fun local race, raises money for a great cause (ALS) and I really like participating in it.

The first two years, I won 2nd in my age group. The third year, I did not win anything but I had run a 10k the day before and I didn’t run it last year. I seem to be on a PR roll for some unknown reason. But who knows? Anything can happen in a race on any given day.

: 2014 – 27:51

: 2015 – 27:56

: 2016 – 28:24

The course is very winding. Someone said that there were 20 turns. But it is also pretty flat except for the last mile which is uphill.

As you can see, my times on this race course have been pretty speedy (until 2016). Could I beat my 2014 time??

And should I try? After all, I just ran a 5k PR last weekend and I have a half marathon in a few weeks.

Nevertheless, I was determined to give it my best shot and not to be disappointed if I sucked.

They always have a short sleeved race shirt. One of these years, it’ll be warm enough to wear one of them. Instead, I wore a long sleeved shirt, a vest, a skirt (yes, this was risky), compression socks and a cap. I brought 2 jackets, capris and gloves for before and after. It was near 40 degrees but the wind made it feel colder and it was raining! A miserable day!! Not one that I wanted run on. The crowd was smaller than previous years but still there was over 300 runners.

The race started at 10:15 and I got there around 9:15 and parked in a bank parking lot across the street. I had picked up my bib on Friday after work so I could relax in my warm car. The other Wineglass ladies running the race were parked nearby so I headed to their car. I wisely added my capris under my skirt, my jacket and my gloves. It was drizzling then raining and then drizzling. We all stayed in the car until the last minute.

only Chris came prepared for the rain

Unfortunately at this Cherry Blossom race each year, there are never any cherry blossoms. (Maybe next year!) There is also usually a Cherry Blossom Festival, as well. I didn’t see one this year.

2015 but similar to this year

You were supposed to line up by pace. I moved up with the 8 min milers and shivered until the race finally started.

pic from the Gazette (I’m in the front)

I usually have a pretty fast first 2 miles and then slow down but I was dragging even during the first mile. My legs were stiff. It was windy and I was cold!!

There are no clocks on the course so I had no idea what my pace was but I was pretty sure that it was slower than my PR pace of last weekend.

The course is nothing special. You just wind your way around the neighborhoods. I tried to run the tangents as much as possible. And make sure to avoid the puddles and not slip on the wet ground rounding the turns.

It rained lightly during the whole race. But I actually got warm and unzipped my jacket and took off my gloves.

There was a water stop at the halfway point. I ran through it since I was not thirsty and wanted to finish and get dry.

Eventually that dreaded third mile came and the uphill was a struggle as it is every year. This year, however, I did not walk. But I definitely felt like I was slowing down.

pic from the Gazette

pic from rainy 2016

Finally we headed toward the finish line. I had no energy left but did my best to sprint across the line.

I crossed at 27:XX. My PR streak has been broken.

I was slower than my last 5K but it was my fastest time on this course. I was content.

I had some refreshments (bagel, banana and chocolate milk) while waiting for the results and my friends to finish.

cold, wet but happy

They all headed to their warm car and I chatted with other running friends and waited for the results.

I was shocked to come in first. I have never won my age group in this race and the runner in third is way faster than me (However she is apparently coming back from an injury).

Race Splits:

mile 1- 8:42
mile 2 – 8:57
mile 3 – 8:47
.14 – 7:51

27:17

So those splits don’t reflect how I felt while I was running. I didn’t feel like I was running my best. To me, that is good news. There may be a faster 5K time in me…

The wineglass ladies headed off to Dunkin Donuts. I thought about it but I had been planning to run 9 more miles after the race. I was cold and grumpy and did not want to run any more so I drove home.

Once I got home, the rain had stopped and it was in the 40s and less windy. With work and my upcoming vacation, I knew that I should try to run some more so out I went. The conditions were better than during my run but my heart was not in it. I walked a lot and quit after almost 8 miles.

Upcoming Vacation –

14th trip to Naples, Florida. Lots of tennis, sun and beach time. Maybe some runs (and don’t be surprised if I squeeze in a 5k race)

11270392_654391348028491_7891947832278018232_o

I leave on May 3 and return on May 10 (9 days before my next half marathon). Can’t wait!!

Happy Running! How was your weekend? Any races or runs? Any races coming up? What are you looking forward to? Please share.

May 1, 2018 by Darlene

April Report Card

April started out just like March – Cold and windy. Then there was rain, snow… There was NO cherry blossoms for my race at the end of the month. We did squeeze in a few nice days here and there.

Anyhow, here’s how April worked out for me:

Weekday Runs:

I was able to run at least 3 times outdoors most weeks which is great because I HATE the treadmill. As I mentioned April was a windy, rainy, chilly month.

: The Crossings

: Elm Ave Park

: UAlbany

I ran locally a few times after work. The good news is that I was able to run while working in NYC and while in Buffalo, Rochester and Liverpool. The best thing about my job is running in different places. My weekday runs were usually around 3-4 miles (occasionally more and occasionally less).

: NYC

: Buffalo

: Rochester

: Liverpool

Long Runs:

Work and the weather has made it tough to get in my weekend long runs. This is peak racing seasons so I usually just add miles to my races.

: 5 FTC miles + 3 = 8

: Delmar Dash ’18

: 5k + 7 = 10

: 5k + 8 = 11

Total Mileage:

I ran 80 miles this month. An decrease in miles basically because April is a shorter month and I did not run half marathon this month. The important thing is that I am feeling healthy so all is good.

Races:

I had several races on my schedule this month. I ran two local 5ks and a local five miler. All were fun and I met up with several friends at each. I also had a PR at the Delmar Dash 5 miler and came in a surprise 3rd in my age group. I also had a surprise PR at the Bacon Hill 5k and won my age group. I didn’t PR at Cherry Blossom 5K but it was a course PR and I surprisedly won my age group

: Delmar Dash – 5 Mile PR

: Bacon Hill – 5k PR

: 1

Cross Training:

Due my work schedule, I did not play tennis at all. I miss it and my friends.

I did work out at the gym once. Shocking. I know.

I did not attend a yoga class. Someday….

The month just got away from me and I was hardly home during the week. Then on the weekend, I was playing catch up.

I did not walk at lunch. But working in NYC does get me a lot of steps.

Other News:

Despite all my work travel, I was able to squeeze in some friend time and hubby time. These are usually spent with dinners in a restaurant.

The Freihofer Training Challenge began last month and goes for ten + weeks and I was able to go only twice. I guess I shouldn’t have signed up this year. (Miss my coach and my running friends.)

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

Half Marathon #31 in May.

It’s a big one and it’s been on my bucket list for years.

Image result for brooklyn half marathon 2018

May 19, 2018

I have some shorter races planned as well. My racing schedule picks up in the spring.

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

5-06-18 – Tropicool 5k (in FL)
5-12-18 – Summer Smith Memorial 5k
5-17-18- Workforce Challenge (3.5 m)
5-19-18 – Brooklyn Half Marathon
6-02-18 – Freihofer’s Run for Women 5k
6-10-18 – Run for Help 5k
6-17-18 – Finest Memorial 5k
6-30-18 – Adirondack 15K Race to the Lakes

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

No monthly goals.

This motto worked for 2016 & 2017 so I’m sticking with it in 2018!

I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

My Topic is: Give your running month a letter grade.

I’d say overall an A-

Despite the work travel and crazy weather, I did my best to get in my runs. Strength training just never happens so I’ve decided not to beat myself up about it. I ran 3 shorter races and had PRs in two of them. I also won an age group award in each. 🙂

Real spring can’t come soon enough for this fair weather runner. I want to see flowers and leaves on the trees!

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

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

What grade would you give your running month?

April 29, 2018 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap Up for 4.23.18-4.29.18 – Another Week , Another Race

Last week –

Monday – No travel today so I was able to attend the Freihofer Training Challenge run (for the 2nd time although they are on week 6.) As usual, it’s a workout that you love to hate. We did do six 800m repeats at 5k pace. My splits ranged from 4:24 to 4:15 and got progressively faster so I was pleased (even though I lagged behind my friends LOL).

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

Tuesday – Off to Liverpool for work. I was able to get a run done before dinner and the predicted rain. Who knew it would be 75 degrees. Thank God for clouds and lake breezes.

I went back for a walk after dinner but no sunset due to the clouds.

Wednesday – Another rest day due to having to drive home after work. It was another rainy April day anyway.
Thursday – Back home and hoping for no rain and an outdoor run. No rain but clouds and WIND!!!

Friday – Another cool rainy day. Hopefully April showers will bring May flowers. I wanted to run but my backup plans were to pick up my race bibs, go to the Spring Run Off pasta dinner and then play mah jongg.

: awesome pasta dinner that included salad, wine and dessert – wish I could run this race

Saturday – Rest Day. I had signed up for a race (Spring Run Off 10k) but family comes first. My stepson is getting married and my daughter-in-law to be asked me to help her bridemaids pick out dresses (Her mother had knee replacement surgery and could not come.)

: 2 of the 4 Bridesmaids -Say YES to the Dress

: the wedding colors are plum and grey

Sunday – Race Day. Cherry Blossom 5K. Of course Saturday was a beautiful morning for a race. Today, it was COLD, windy and RAINY. A miserable day to run, Many of my friends did run it so I am glad that I didn’t bail and I had course PR and won my age group.

I was cold and grumpy so I went home after the race. The rain stopped and it wasn’t as cold and windy so I sucked it up and went back out to finish my “long” run for the day.

There was a lot of walking but it is done and I can relax.

This Coming Week –

Monday – Train to NYC, 3 miles
Tuesday – 4 miles
Wednesday – rest day, train home
Thursday – rest day, fly to FLORIDA!!!!
Friday – 3 miles, tennis, beach, sun & fun
Saturday – rest day, tennis, beach, sun & fun, theatre
Sunday – Tropicool 5k, road trip

The Week After –

Monday – 3 miles, tennis, beach, sun & fun
Tuesday – 3 miles, tennis, beach, sun & fun
Wednesday – 3 miles, tennis, beach, sun & fun – MY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!
Thursday – 3 miles, tennis, fly home
Friday – rest day,mah jongg
Saturday – Summer Smith Memorial 5K + 7 miles
Sunday – rest day, dinner out for Mother’s Day

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

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Has spring arrived where you live? Please share.

April 25, 2018 by Darlene

2018 Bacon Hill Bonanza Recap

Every year, I plan to sign up for the 10k and then I chicken out.

10 K

I know that the hills would be good training but… the 5k is an out and back and mostly flat.

5k – not as flat as it looks

So I changed my mind again and registered for the 5k and then planned to run 7 hilly miles after.

I ran this race for the past four years and loved it. They had great food – the usual food but also chili and homemade muffins & cookies (including gluten free ones).

And there was chocolate milk, fresh from the dairy.

Plus, I won a homemade pie as first in my age group for the past four years. 28:56, 28:01, 27:54, 27:32. Yes, it seems that I am getting faster but not sure about this year??? Lately I don’t feel very fast.

The race started at 10 am which was good since it would be an hour drive from my house.

But I woke with a horrendous headache and an upset stomach. I thought about an DNS for about a second. Anyway it was only a 5k and I knew that running could make me feel better.

Again the weather was tricky. What to wear? I was brave the first two years and wore a skirt, a baseball cap and no gloves. It is April, right? Then the past two years, it was cold and I resorted to capris. This year, the race was scheduled at the end of April instead of the beginning. So you would think that it would be warm out already …NOT!!

This year I decided to continue with the capris. Although it was chilly (30s) in the morning, I hoped that it would warm up by the time I raced (and after). But I did bring along gloves and a jacket. (Spoiler alert: it did warm up but the wind made it feel cold.) The best part about today’s weather was the sunshine. It had been days since we had had any.

I got to the race early and found a parking spot in a (muddy) field next to the church. The race started at the church in the town of Bacon Hill, a small farming town with awesome scenery. (It reminded me of Vermont.)

these pics are from other years…everything still looked the same)

It was chillier than I thought. It was in the 30s but windy… Brrrr!! I quickly put on both of my jackets and got my shirt and bib. I also dropped off my free raffle ticket. (They had some really great prizes.)

I wasn’t sure that I would know anyone at this race since the runners that I usually run this race with were not coming (Holly who was in the Turkey Trot training group and now the FRW training group said that she had to work this year. Another runner friend, Sue, whom I am running Brooklyn with was in Florida and my friend Judith just ran the Boston Marathon.) So I just stopped by the timing truck to say hello to my FTC coach who as usual asked me if I was going to PR. I replied: “I doubt it but it’s all about the pie.” You get a pie if you win your age group. And I wanted to keep my pie streak going.

Then I ran back to my car to keep warm until almost time for the race to start.

At the last minute, I decided to shed my jacket and tossed it under a tree.

Although I prefer to start most races near the front, there were sign with paces. I was embarrassed to stand with the 7 minute runners so I moved back to the 9 minute mile sign. That’s when someone tapped me on the shoulder. It was Maureen, a friend that I ran the Shape Half with last year. She is in my age group and a lot faster. Fortunately for me, she had decided to run the 10k. We chatted until the race began.

The pastor read a prayer, the church bells rang and we were off.

The 5k was an out and back. The 10k veered to the right and supposedly had killer hills but breath taking views.

I decided to go out fast. I always have positive splits so why try not to. It isn’t as flat as the map shows. The hills are rolling throughout but not that bad. Even I could run up them.

Unlike last weekend, I really slacked off on my weekly runs. In fact, I didn’t run Wed, Thurs, and Fri – yes three days in a row without running which is so unlike me. Part of it was weather-related but mostly I just didn’t feel like it.

I loved all the signs along the route. Many of them were riddles. I wish I could remember them but they were a nice distraction.

the cloudy sky pics are from last year

This one as my favorite:

14002247934_c17e330207_z

The wind was annoying. It was at times hard to keep moving forward. And my legs really protested my attempt for speed. I felt my short lay-off.

There were volunteers on the course calling out times. I was shocked at how fast my first mile was because I was really struggling.

Eventually we turned around and headed back… It would seem natural that now the wind would be at our backs. But no, it seemed to be blowing from the side.

There was a water stop but I wasn’t thirsty and just wanted to get to the finish and warm up. I realized quickly that I had gone out too fast. I could not keep up that pace but may be just maybe I could finish fast enough to win that pie!!

the finish line is right next to the cemetery

As I approached the finish line, I realized that I may even PR!! Holy Cow!

I crossed at 27:04 Gun Time. I beat my 2014 5k PR time by 7 seconds!! I was in shock.

I glanced at my Garmin which would have been chip time and it said 27:01. I ran to tell Patrick. He grinned that “I told you so grin.”

I grabbed my jacket, put up my hood and immediately made a bee line for the chocolate milk. Boy, was it good. I had 3 cups.

They had the same great food (chili, muffins, cookies, fruit) like last year but no vegetarian dish and no pizza. I had some cookies, chili and a corn muffin.

PR + chocolate milk makes a happy runner

I hung around the finish line though I was pretty cold (because of the wind). I did bump into another runner that I knew. She was waiting for her husband to finish the 10K so we waited together.

Here comes Maureen with a great finish time as well.

Finally they posted the results. Mine was listed as 27:04 and I was first in my age group. Maureen was first too. We were both glad that we had chosen different distances. That way we both won our age groups.

Two years ago, it was so cold that they let you just get your award and leave but this year, we had to wait and they announced them one by one. Brrrr…

I waited with Maureen and her friends. And I won a pie again!

Check out those race times. If I had not Pr’d, I would not have won this year. I always say that it’s not your time but who shows up. (Everyone in this group is new to this age group. I age up in a few years!!)

Race Splits:

mile 1- 8:44
mile 2 – 8:56
mile 3 – 8:56
.11 – 8:30
_________________

27:01 (Garmin time)

fueled by sunshine!

All in all, I loved this race. I will definitely do it again…maybe even the 10K someday. I was thrilled with my time. A course PR. A 5k PR. What could be better? More importantly, I felt like I didn’t go all out and who knows maybe there is a sub 27 5k in my future???

I put the pie in my car and contemplated my planned 7 additional miles. The scenery is beautiful here but with the wind, I decided to drive to some place where I would be more sheltered from the wind and where it would be flatter.

2016 pic

So I drove to the Zim Smith Trail. It is lined with trees, flat, gravel coated and there’s the incentive of a post run treat at Leah’s Cakery.

Scenes from my run:

It was tough. My legs were tired and stiff so this was a walk/run at best.

10 miles done! Hooray!

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

Happy Running! Did you run or race this weekend? Do you have spring weather yet?

April 22, 2018 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 4.16.18-4.22.18 – Recovery

Recovery in the sense of recovering from the sudden loss of my favorite cat (Still feel like crying All.The.Time).

Last week –

Monday – I drove to Rochester today for work . It was a miserable, cold, windy rainy day (The weather here will not let up !!) My only resort was the hotel treadmill and it was not fun. (I wish that I were as tough as the runners in Boston! Yay Desi!!)

Tuesday – Yes, woke up to snow! Worked all day hoping for a light at the end if the tunnel and not have to run in the treadmill again. It was snowing lightly but not sticking so I headed to the trail along the Erie Canal.

3 miles – not bad on the way out but the wind killed me on the way back. When will spring be here?

Wednesday – Another rainy dreary day. I had to drive home after work but I thought I might stop and squeeze in a quick run followed by Abbott’s Custard like I did last fall:

Well, the bridge to run over to get to the trail along the canal was under construction. I drove around a bit but then parked and tried to find access to the trail but I was on the wrong side. I couldn’t even find Abbott’s Custard. It was COLD so I gave up. I ran maybe a mile and then headed home.

Thursday – The same lousy weather continued and maybe this affected my running mojo but I decided to skip my run and instead I went out to dinner with my tennis friends. We try to get together monthly with whomever is available.

Friday – Still did not feel like running and rested for third day in a row. I did play mah jongg in the evening.
Saturday – Race Day. Bacon Hill Bonanza 5K. I wasn’t sure how it would go since I had a lackluster running week. But racing always helps me get back on track. I woke up, however, with a headache and upset stomach. Thought about a DNS (for about a second LOL) and then drove an hour to the race. My FRW coach was there and asked me if I was going for a PR. I laughed and said “No but it’s all about the pie.” If you win your age group, you get a pie and I have a pie streak going. It was chilly and pretty windy but believe it or not, I RAN A PR! Good thing because if I didn’t, I would not have gotten my pie.

fueled by sunshine and post race chocolate milk

Afterward the race, I still had 7 more miles on my schedule. But I left and drove to the Zim Smith Trail where I thought that I would be more sheltered from the wind.

This was not easy and involved quite a bit of walking but the scenery is pretty and I parked at Leah’s Cakery (enough said)

Sunday – My friends were racing but after 10 miles the previous day, even I decided that it wouldn’t be smart. Instead I went to the gym, then for a walk before I did join the racers for lunch.

This Coming Week –

Monday – 4 miles FTC, mall walk with BFF
Tuesday – drive to Liverpool, 4 miles
Wednesday – rest day, drive home
Thursday – 4 miles
Friday – 3 miles, mah jongg
Saturday – rest day, bridemaid dress shopping trip
Sunday – Cherry Blossom 5k + 8 miles

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

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Has spring arrived where you live? Please share.

April 10, 2018 by Darlene

Ice Breaker Challenge 5K Race Recap

The Ice Breaker Challenge is a one of a kind Capital District running/walking road race challenging runners and walkers against rowers from the Albany Rowing Center. Runners/walkers will travel along the Corning Preserve Bicycle Path while rowers from the Albany Rowing Center will race along side in shells on the Hudson River.

This was my third time running this race. I ran it in 2013 and then again in 2016. I often do my long runs on this bike path so I am very familiar with the course.

: 2013

: 2016

This year, I mentioned it to some of the Wineglass ladies and Barbara, Heidi and Sherry decided to sign up and join me for the race. Alyssa say she would join us after to run more miles and Jeri and Chris (who were part of the Freihofer Training Challenge) planned to join us for brunch.

Barbara and I carpooled and arrived plenty early to pick up our bibs and race shirt.

We were lucky with the weather too. Sunny, cold but not too cold and just a little breeze.

from 5 years ago

So we sat in Barbara’s car (with Heidi and Sherry) until it was time to line up.

rowers getting ready to race (again from 5 years ago)

Eventually we had to head to the start. This week, I tried not to overdress and left my jacket behind. I had on 2 shirts and capris. I was cold at first but in the end, my outfit was perfect.

It was a little confusing because the start was not in the same place as the finish and there was no start line.

Soon everyone figured things out and I tried unlike last week to stand in the front but runners at the last minute just shoved in in front of me.

What was my plan for the race?…the usual..no real plan. I was tired from working in Liverpool and NYC all week, I had gotten home late the night before. So I was just playing it by ear and would see what my legs had to give. At least this was a flat course.

The first half of the race was running into the wind. But it wasn’t as bad as it would get later in the day. I recognized one runner and again she was fast. I couldn’t keep up and she got farther and farther ahead of me. (She wasn’t in my age group anyway LOL)

With the changing of my clothing layers, my Garmin was now too loose. It was very annoying!!! I tried to fix it but it was hard to do while running. (I eventually did during the 2nd mile.)

There was someone calling out times at each mile but either the markings were inaccurate or the times weren’t right. At mile 1, someone said 8:32 – NOT SO!!

There was a water stop near the turn around. I wasn’t really thirsty but I was tired but like my last race, I decided to push myself and keep on going.

I tried to focus on the scenery and look at the rowers but they were so close to the opposite shore that I couldn’t really see them.

At least on the way back, the wind wasn’t a problem. Although, it didn’t appear to be at our back either. Being an out and back course, after the turn around, I was able to see Barbara, Sherry and Heidi. They were all running well. (For Sherry and Heidi, this was their first race of the year!!)

At mile 2, someone held up a tablet and it said 19:XX – also not accurate.

I did glance at my Garmin several times and it appeared that my splits were under 9 minutes. (PR?? Nah… Course PR? I forgot to look at my 2016 time before the race)

heading home…

I crossed the finish line at 27:XX.

done!

I got a text with 27:52 and it was posted with that finish time (Later they changed it to 27:48)

Splits:

mile 1: 8:45
mile 2: 9:00
mile 3: 8:50
.16: 7:21

Garmin time: 27:46

Not a PR but I was very happy because it was indeed a 7 sec. course PR (2016 – 27:55).

I waited at the finish line for the others to finish.

Then I had some food – There were cookies, bagels, fruit, etc.

Having another half marathon to train for, I was pleased that Barbara agreed to run more miles with me. (Alyssa did, as well.)

We ran in the other direction since the race was still happening.

And then we turned around.

I knew that I had won FIRST in my age group and arrived just as they were calling my name.

We continued onto the race route and ran for awhile and turned around.

We had to stop to meet everyone for brunch but at least I was able to add almost 4 miles to my 5k. 7 miles for the day. Long Run accomplished.

Brunch was fun, as usual. Racing (and eating) with friends is the best way to start a weekend.

I ended the day with a Passover seder. (#holottaeating)

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

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

Happy Running! Did you run or race Easter/Passover weekend? Are you training for anything?

April 3, 2018 by Darlene

March Report Card

Image result for welcome april goodbye march

Spring did not arrive in March. There was a lot of snow but I was lucky to escape for a few days to sunny Florida.

Anyhow, here’s how March worked out for me:

Weekday Runs:

I was able to run at least 3 times outdoors each week which is great because I HATE the tradmill. As I mentioned March was a snowy month. Four nor’easters in 3 weeks!!!!

I ran at UAlbany (near work) or near home. Unfortunately, my preferred routes don’t have lights but the good news is that it is staying light longer since we moved the clocks ahead one hour. I did run while working in NYC and in Liverpool. The best thing about my job is running in different places. My weekday runs were usually around 3-4 miles (occasionally more and occasionally less).

: UAlbany

: NYC

: Liverpool

Long Runs:

Work and the weather has made it tough to get in my weekend long runs. But since I ran a half marathon in the middle, I did get a few in before I left. Then I took a break but continued with some extra miles after a race at the end of the month.

: 3.5 + 9

: 8

: 3.1 + 3.9 = 7 (with NO snow)

Total Mileage:

I ran 92 miles this month. An increase in miles basically because March is a long month and I ran a half marathon this month. The important thing is that I am feeling healthy so all is good.

Races:

I had several races on my schedule this month. I ran the Brew 2 Brew Half Marathon during my vacation in Florida. When I returned, I ran two local races, Shamrock Shuffle, a 5 miler and the Ice Break Challenge, a 5k. Both were fun and I met up with several friends at each. I also had course PRs and won my age group in both races. A nice perk!

: March 2018

Cross Training:

I only played tennis once indoors. It’s doubles so not a great workout but better than nothing. I wish I could play more but …WORK WORK WORK!!!

I did NOT work out at the gym at all.

I did not attend a yoga class. The month just got away from me and I was hardly home during the week. Then on the weekend, I was playing catch up.

I did not walk at lunch. But working in NYC does get me a lot of steps. I did go for an after dinner walk in Liverpool.

Other News:

The highlight of my month was my trip to Florida. I especially enjoyed the warm temps and sunshine. I was able to visit with five different friends and as well as my sister-in-law.

: March 2018

Despite all my work travel, I was able to squeeze in some friend time and hubby time. These are usually spent with dinners in a restaurant. I ended the month with a Passover Seder with my Mah jongg friends.

The Freihofer Training Challenge began. I have yet to be able to go since I’ve been working out of town on Mondays and racing on Saturdays. I guess I shouldn’t have signed up this year. (Miss my coach and my running buds.)

FTC – March 2016

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

Half Marathon #31 in May.

It’s a big one and it’s been on my bucket list for years.

May 19, 2018

I have some shorter races planned as well. My racing schedule picks up in the spring.

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

4-14-18 – Code Blue 8K and/or 4-15-18 – Delmar Dash (5m)
4-21-18 – Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k and/or 4-22-18 – Sasha’s Super Hero Run 5k
4-28-18 – Spring Run Off 5k /10k and/or 4-29-18 – Cherry Blossom 5k
5-06-18 – Tropicool 5k (in FL)
5-12-18 – Summer Smith Memorial 5k
5-17-18- Workforce Challenge (3.5 m)
5-19-18 – Brooklyn Half Marathon

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

No monthly goals.

This motto worked for 2016 & 2017 so I’m sticking with it in 2018!

I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

My Topic is: Give your running month a letter grade.

I’d say overall an A-

Despite the work travel, vacation and crazy winter weather, I did my best to get in my runs. Strength training just never happens so I’ve decided not to beat myself up about it. I ran 2 shorter races and without any speed drills, I had course PRs and won my age group in both. 🙂

Spring can’t come soon enough for this fair weather runner.

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

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

What grade would you give your running month?

April 2, 2018 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 3.26.18-4.1.18 – My Home is on the Road

I survived an extremely busy week- travel upstate for work, travel to NYC for work, Passover, Easter. And a race squeezed in there too. OY!!

Last week –

Monday – Today I drove to Liverpool for work. The weather was almost perfect for running (just a little windy) so I headed to my favorite running route.

After dinner, I returned for a sunset walk.

Tuesday – I might have run before my long drive home but it was raining and I was anxious to get home.
Wednesday – Back on the train to NYC. With rain predicted for the next two days, I knew I needed to run and I did. I took the subway to Riverside Park and ran along the Hudson River and then finished my run in Central Park.

Thursday – It was supposed to rain so I didn’t plan to run but then it didn’t so I decided to head to the High Line after work. It is crowded and hard to run on but always great views so worth it.

Friday – Another work day (and a rainy one) with no time to run since I had to catch a train home.
Saturday – Race Day. Ice Breaker Challenge, a local 5k. Several of my Wineglass friends had FOMO and signed up too. It was fun and afterward I ran some more miles with Barbara (and Alyssa for a bit). We also met some of the others at our favorite spot for brunch.

sunny skies, course PR and age group winner = happy morning!

In the evening, I celebrated Passover at a Seder with my mah jongg friends.

Sunday – Rest day and Easter dinner with the family.

This Coming Week –

Monday – 4 miles with FTC group
Tuesday – train to NYC, 3 miles
Wednesday – 3 miles
Thursday – 3 miles in NYC
Friday – rest day, train home
Saturday – 8 miles
Sunday – rest day, train to NYC

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

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Has spring arrived where you live? Please share.

March 20, 2018 by Darlene

TOTR: Spring Racing Plans

A great topic because I love SPRING and I love RACING.

I race often and hopefully my training miles will be filled with views like below:

in Washington Park

So here are some of the races I am planning to run:

3-25-18 – Shamrock Shuffle (5m) – I’ve done this race several times and it’s a nice local race (with some hills). I also like the 5 mile distance.

3-31-18 – Ice Breaker Challenge 5K – This race is on the bike path that I often run on so it is familiar territory and that makes it easy to add on miles before or after.

4-14-18 – Code Blue 8K and/or 4-15-18 – Delmar Dash (5m)

I ran Code Blue last year for the first time and enjoyed it but it is the same weekend as Delmar Dash, the race closest to my house. What should I do??

4-21-18 – Bacon Hill Bonanza 5k and/or 4-22-18 – Sasha’s Super Hero Run 5k

I usually run Bacon Hill because of the refreshments and that you win a pie as an AG award.

But I know the organizer of Sasha’s Super Hero Run so I may run this one instead and even run both.

this would be a fun one to dress up as Wonder Woman

4-28-18 – Spring Run Off 5k /10k and/or 4-29-18 – Cherry Blossom 5k

Decisions. Decisions. I hate that these races are on the same weekend. We have very few 10ks so I like to run them but the Cherry Blossom raises money for ALS. Not sure if I will run one or both.

5-05-18 – Tropicool 5k (in FL)

I ran this race while on a tennis vacation in Florida last year. I’d love to do it again.

5-12-18 – Summer Smith Memorial 5k

This 5k is important because it is organized by the mother of a STEM runner who died. I knew her from my first volunteering with STEM.

5-17-18- Workforce Challenge (3.5 m)

This is not really a competitive race but a way to connect with your co-workers. There are about 10,000 who participate in my area. It was 98 degrees last year so I hope for a cooler day this May.

5-19-18 – Brooklyn Half Marathon

This half marathon has always been on my bucket list and my friend Sue has agreed to run it with me. With the huge crowd that it attracts, my goal for this half is to finish injury-free on the boardwalk of Coney Island.

Image result for brooklyn half finish

6-02-18 – Freihofer’s Run for Women

As I have mentioned so many times, this race is the only race that I have run every year since I started running (even with injuries.) This will be my 11th FRW.

6-09-18 – OK 5k or Betar Byway 5k and/or 6-10-18 – Run for Help (volunteer with STEM)

Several years ago, I ran the OK 5k because it was flat and a popular local race. Then I switched to the Betar Byway 5k because it was more scenic. Even if I run one of those, I may still volunteer in the Run for Help.

6-16-18 – Whipple City 5K

I ran this 5k for the first time last year because of peer pressure. I was not too impressed so this is only a maybe.

All these races may not happen or they may or I may even decide on different ones.

But I do know is that this spring, there will be a #holottaracing going on.

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

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

Happy Running! Which spring races are you looking forward to? Please share.

January 30, 2018 by Darlene

TOTR: My Favorite Hometown Race

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

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

Today’s Topic is: Favorite Hometown Race

Image result for freihofer run 2017

This is an easy one for me. It’s the only race that I’ve run every year since I started running. This year will my 11th time!!!!

FRW – 2008

FRW – 2009

FRW – 2011

FRW – 2012

FRW 2012

FRW – 2014

FRW – 2015

FRW – 2016

FRW – 2017

Here are some of the reasons why I love this race and why I run it every year:

It is ALL women – all ages – all sizes – veterans – newbies – elites – walkers
It is a real USATF race with Olympic runners in it. Joan Benoit Samuelson runs it most years. In 2017, Sara Hall also ran it and WON.

It feels so good to be a part of all the excitement.
The results are printed in the local newspaper and even though I finish around 2000, I am happy if I finish in the top half.
I always meet someone I know and someone new. I have even met the mayor and last year, a blogger friend from VT.

with the mayor

Running it in 2008 made realize that I actually was a runner.
Being part of other runners’ first 5k in 2010 made me so proud.
2011 was my first FRW PR year. There was a drought and then I course PR’d last year.

Finishing it in 2012 (after serious ankle surgery) helped me believe that I could be a runner again.
I broke my foot at the beginning of the race in 2013 and still gutted out a finish under 30 minutes!

In 2014, I ran as part of a team to raise money for a former student who was diagnosed with breast cancer. It made the race even more meaningful.
In 2015 & 2016 & 2017, I participated in the Freihofer Training Challenge Group. (And I will again this year.) It was fun being part of a group.

You run around Washington Park.

There is a lot of crowd support along the whole course.
It ends with a downhill 🙂
Everyone finishes with a smile.
They give you a free box of Freihofer chocolate chip cookies and a loaf of bread (and chocolate milk)