October 4, 2016 by Darlene

Apple Run 5K Race Recap & TOTR

apple5k

I ran this race in 2014 because 2 ladies whom I met at a previous race raved about it. Now it’s become one of my favorite races.

: Apple Run 2014

: Apple Run 2015

It didn’t hurt that in 2014, I finished this race in 27:47 and won 1st in my age group and in 2015, I finished in 28:01 and won 2nd.

That being said, on a weekend where there was good number of local races (including the Susan Komen Race for the Cure), I chose to drive 45 minutes to run this race.

According to the website, it is a looped, flat course. Even though I ran it twice already, I didn’t remember much about the course. I run so many races, they all blend together sometimes.

Apparently we quickly switched from summer to fall in a few days. But at least the predicted rain did not come. It was when I left the house pretty chilly and damp.

I am the crazy person who refuses to wear capris or tights before Thanksgiving. But I decided for some strange reason to change from my tank to a long sleeved shirt today (Big mistake!!)

I arrived about 30 minutes before the start of the race which starts and ends at the middle school in Burnt Hills.

sporting my Skirt Sports running attire, of course

You’ll notice in the above picture that I have my Garmin on my right wrist and that’s my new Apple Watch on the other wrist. I usually have my Garmin on the left wrist but I switched them. I planned to use the Garmin for the race since I hadn’t tried the GPS functionality of the watch yet and then later try out the Apple watch.

In the gym, I picked up my race packet and was surprised that they had chips for your shoe. I almost forgot to get one. It’s been awhile since I have had to use one.

: a cool backpack filled lots of goodies

I bumped into the 2 older ladies that I see at most races that I run. We chatted for awhile before the race.

Then I saw Tom, the crazy guy that I see at most of my races. We posed for pics.

apple-run1

apple-run2

Finally I spotted Sue who had recommended this race. (Her Connecticut friend Ilsa couldn’t come.) We started together and she’s my competition (but she hasn’t been racing much.)

Ilsa, Sue & I

Soon it was time to head outside. It was then, looking at what other (serious) runners were wearing that I realized that the shirt I had on might have been the wrong choice.

Tom was running with this charity group

I lined up in front because there were so many kids running this race (The whole girls hockey team and cross country team, I think). Then Sue shouted out to me and we started talking. She was back a ways and then all of a sudden, the race started. With no chip timing, this was Race Fail #1.

Runners head up Lake Hill Road for the 22nd Annual ...

photo from the Gazette

I started to make up for my slow start but with all those kids in the way, it was impossible. I also noticed up ahead was my age group competition. She beat me last year but she is super fast and was slowly disappearing from my view.

So I just decided to enjoy the race. Then I noticed that my Garmin was still on 0. I must have pushed the wrong button. It was confusing wearing it on the other wrist. So I started it about 1/2 mile late. Race Fail #2.

As a result, my Garmin was pretty useless and I didn’t look at it for the whole race.

I love the course although it does feel like you’re running on a slight uphill the whole time. There are only 2 short downhills and they’re during the last mile.

The race course is a loop first through country roads and then around a residential neighborhood and then back along a different country road.

There was someone calling out times at mile 1 which for me was between 8:55 and 9. At least that was better than last week. At the halfway point, there was a water stop but I chose not to stop.

That’s when I decided to see what would happen if I ran the whole race without stopping to walk. I can’t remember the last time I did that…it’s been years.

Though the temp was in the 5o’s, it was humid. It had rained all night and looked like it may start again. I was getting increasing warmer and warmer. I regretted not wearing a tank. I was sweating and very uncomfortable. Race Fail #3.

Finally, I came to home stretch. When I saw the clock, I wasn’t surprised that I wasn’t close to a PR but I did want to finish under 28 minutes. I ran as fast as I could and crossed at 27:48.

I was happy. Not as fast as my first Apple Run but faster than last year.

I waited for Susan to finish. She hadn’t run a race since this race last year so she did great.

Then I had to wait a while for Tom to cross with his group.

the race raised $2000 to buy 2 more wheelchairs like Seamus’ here

Inside there were pizza, bagels, fruit, etc. I had 2 pieces of pizza and a bagel and waited with my friends for the awards.

The results were the same as last year. I was 2nd and Sue third.

As always, I enjoyed this race and plan to run this one again next year.

My splits for 2.94 mi

mile 1 – 9:05
mile 2 – 8:49
mile 3 – 8:42
26:07

Could that be negative splits? How did that happen? Without walking, I really felt that I was running so much slower each mile. Without a watch, I had no idea of my pace.

My running, however, was not over for the day. 10 miles was on the schedule in preparation for next Sunday’s half marathon. So I drove to the Zim Smith Bike Path. It has become one of my favorite running routes.

Unfortunately, I had to run in my sweaty shirt. I was chilled at first but then warmed up.

the leaves are beginning to drop and turn orange. this will be a pretty trail in a few weeks

My legs were definitely tired. This always happens when I run a race for my first few miles of a long run. But I was excited to try out my new Apple Watch.

I set the Activity App for 7 miles and ran to the end of the trail and then turned around.

I didn’t have the watch do anything fancy. I’m not sure yet if it can but it shows your heart rate, distance, current pace and average pace which is all I need. I have never used intervals even on my Garmin.

I was walking at this point

It was a nice run. Lots of of running and walking when I felt like it. Nothing to write home about. My pace was very slow but I’m fine with it. All I cared about was that my last long run was DONE!!

Hip Hip Hooray

The best part was that I parked my car at Leah’s Cakery. I planned to have lunch there as a reward for having completed 10 miles!

The food there is great and the people who run the restaurant are so nice.

I had a portobello mushroom, tomato, cheese sandwich with the best chocolate milk ever!

You didn’t think I’d skip dessert, did you? It was a tough decision but I chose the cranberry apple pie.

Back to my Apple Watch, I am pleased so far. It syncs with my iphone and gives you stats on your run.

I delete my info right away and I probably wouldn’t even ever look. I am only interested in my pace when I am running a race.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with Erika @ MCM Mama Runs, Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice and Patty @ My no-guilt life for

This week’s topic is Bucket list race: Where do you dream about running?

So we have the unrealistic bucket list race:

Running in France (remember I used to be a French teacher)

either in Paris:

or the south of France:

For both I would need more $$$ and more time off.

Then we have the realistic bucket list race:

Running in NYC (my second favorite city after Paris)

either the NYC Half Marathon

Image result for NYC Half

or the Brooklyn Half Marathon

Image result for Brooklyn Half

Both are lotteries so I can hope…

I have a few more on my list:

Happy Running! Which race(s) are on your bucket list?

October 3, 2016 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday – Tonight was our second Troy Turkey Trot Training group run. Again my legs were tired from the running that I did on Sunday. When this happens, I can’t take full advantage of the training group drills. But I did my best but it was tough. Thankfully, it got dark before we could run another hilly loop.

Tuesday – Just work with a short walk at lunch and tennis in the evening. We went out to dinner after and I shared a pizza. No dessert!
Wednesday – I met up with Alyssa for a run before my STEM volunteering. The weather was perfect. I am still dragging. Luckily, Alyssa continued on her own for another loop and my STEM group is doing the Couch to 5k walk/run.

Afterward I met my BFF for some steps in the mall.

Thursday – My hair appointment interfered with my planned run. (Hair color is important!!) Afterward I wanted to squeeze in a short run before it got dark but it was my MIL’s 91st birthday and I had to stop by for dinner & cake. (Another skipped run! Grrrr!)

ziti, meatballs, lasagna, rum cake – Oh my!

It was nice having all the family together – my MIL, BIL & his son, SIL, 2 stepsons & their girlfriends & my hubby (In the picture above are my MIL, nephew, BIL, sons’ girlfriends)

Friday – Rest day but at least I walked at lunch. In the evening, I had my weekly mah jongg game (at my house)

Saturday – I ran a 5K race. No PR but 2nd in my AG. This is one of my favorite 5ks.

Afterward, I ran almost 7 more miles. I drove to the Zim Trail which has become my favorite place to do a long run (Could it be Leah’s cakery?)

Sunday – I thought we’d go boating today but the weather was iffy so my hubby signed up for two tennis tournaments. I did lots of cleaning up around the house and went for a walk in the mall. (There may have been some retail therapy involved too.)

18 miles done with 3 runs and 4 rest days.

This Week:

Monday – Turkey Trot Training group run (3 miles)
Tuesday – rest, tennis
Wednesday – 4 mile run with friends+ volunteering with STEM group
Thursday – 4 mile run, dinner out some former co-workers
Friday – rest, mah jongg
Saturday – rest, boating ??
Sunday – Ramblefest Half Marathon!!

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? Any races?

October 2, 2016 by Darlene

September Recap

Image result for september

So Fall has finally arrived!! And very recently, we’ve even experienced some cooler temps.

So here’s how September went…

Weekday Runs:

Like the summer, the beginning of the month was still warm and humid and we had very little rain. I was able to run at least 3-4 times outdoors each week which is great because I do not have a treadmill at home.

Since I finally started working after 12 weeks off, I was limited to where I could run. I ran mostly at UAlbany (near work) or the Delmar rail trail (near home).

I ran with Alyssa several times. Like Barbara I met her through FB. These were, no doubt, besides my 5k races my faster runs. I struggle when I run with her but she gets me to run faster. She says that I make her faster . Win-Win. I also ran with Barbara a few times and she is even faster than Alyssa. In addition, I shared a run with Natalie (my mah jongg buddy) who is a beginning runner.

It’s definitely more fun running with friends.

Long Runs:

There were three of these!!!. One was a half marathon and one was just added miles to a 5k race.

: Sept 3

: Sept 10

: Sept 18

Total Mileage:

I ran 83 miles this month – 6 miles less than last month even though I ran a half marathon and am training for another this coming Sunday!! I guess I was slacking off. (I’ll blame it on work and my social life LOL)

sep16

Races:

I ran four races this month – a half marathon and three 5ks.

: Sept. 5 – 1st AG – 28:35

: Sept 10 – 2nd AG – 27:30

: Sept 18 – 3rd AG – 2:11:56

: Sept 25 – 1st AG – 28:39

I was generally happy with how they went. I did not have PR goals and of course, I would have been thrilled if I got one. I won age group awards in all three. I guess that’s an achievement.

For a change, none of the races were super hilly. I knew runners at all of them and they were all super fun. As you can guess I LOVE RACING!!

Cross Training:

The tennis season has moved indoors and that means that I have be a member of a club and join a contract. $$$$$ So I don’t play as often as I did in the summer (when it was free and I was unemployed.) I am scheduled to play two Tuesdays a month but do get called to sub on the other weeks.

I DID NOT go to a single yoga class!! Someday I will do, I think.

Miss you, Maria!

I did NOT workout at the gym at all. Total slacking here!!

I did not go hiking. I hope to do some this month. It is so beautiful around here in the fall. But fitting it in (now that I work) is very challenging.

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

Other News:

My favorite running groups started up again. The Troy Turkey Trot Challenge group meets on Monday evenings and Saturday mornings. I only go on Mondays. I am running with my friends in the 10k group. It will be the one day of the week where I may have to do speed drills.

The STEM group meets on M, W, F and I volunteer on Wednesday evenings. We are doing the Couch to 5K program with some new and returning runners (who are domestic violence survivors). We are training them for a 5k race on Nov. 19.

I took a day trip to NYC to meet up with my Russian friend, Anna, who stopped off there on the way back from Maine. We had lunch on a lobster boat, walked the High Line and then had drinks on the top of the Standard Hotel. What a full but exciting day!!

I took one last visit to the Saratoga Race Track with a former co-worker. This time, we only went for the last few races (and I won at each one), headed to the Casino and then out to dinner.

I spent a lot of time (maybe too much) going out to dinner and meeting up with friends and family.

: out with a former co-worker

: MIL’s 91st b-day

: monthly tennis friends meet-up

Boating season continued and the weather was great. I love it at the lake. It’s my “happy place.” I am sad that it will be ending very soon.

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

I am now employed so I guess I have $$ to sign up for more races!!

Looking Ahead:

My next half marathon is October 9 and I am (slightly) excited. Is the thrill gone???

I do have a lot of races coming up. Fall is my favorite time to race. This is my list so far for the next 2 months:

10-01-16 – Apple Run 5K
10-09-16 – Ramblefest Half Marathon
10-15-16 – Great Pumpkin Challenge 10K
10-22-16 – L.L.Bean Bright Night 5K
10-29-16 – Monster Dash 10K???? (not signed up yet since I am out of town for work Oct 24-28
11-05-16 – NYRR Dash to the Finish Line 5K (in NYC)
11-11-16 – Veteran’s Dash 5K
11-13-16 – Stockade-athon 15K
11-19-16 – Girls on the Run 5k (STEM volunteer which is good because I’m out of town for work Nov 14-18)
11-24-16 – Troy Turkey Trot 10k and then the 5k

I may have a racing addiction!!!

No monthly goals.

my motto for 2016

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

Happy Running! How did your September turn out? Anything exciting planned for October?

September 27, 2016 by Darlene

Falcon 5K Race Recap & TOTR

So many races to choose from this weekend but I chose this one.

Not for the course but simply because it was on Sunday and my tennis friend (the one who started me running) was going to do the race and we hardly ever run together.

racing together back in November

I am familiar with the course. I used to run in this park quite often. It is pretty but hilly. What I do not like about this race is the fact that you repeat the loop. I always want to done after the first time around.

falcon5k

I ran a race on this course a few years ago and my time was 28:16. So I guess that was the time I was aiming for. The big difference is that I didn’t have any half marathons on the schedule that fall. I ran one a week ago. I also have another in 2 weeks!! That meant that I needed to add more miles after the race.

I woke up not in the mood to race.

I had a very frustrating Saturday. I had planned to help out a friend and proctor the LSATs, then drive to a former professor’s house to help her with her computer and then in the evening, go to the movies with friends.

I didn’t realize that I would be proctoring special accommodations and that I would be there for 7 1/2 hours. At that point, I wasn’t sure that I would have enough time to visit the professor and get to the movies. So I postponed the visit until Sunday.

I had thought about going up to the lake on Sunday after the race but now that wouldn’t be possible.

Anyway, the weather couldn’t have been more perfect. Finally we had some cooler weather. When I left my house, it was in the 40s but with bright sunshine. I refuse to dress as if summer is over. I’ll be wearing those capris and tights for many many months. So I shivered in a skirt and wore a jacket over my short sleeve shirt until the start of the race. (I almost wore a tank.)

I parked about 1/2 mile away and ran slowly to the start.

When I arrived, I got a text that my friend had decided to bail on the race. I was disappointed but I immediately found some runners that I knew. I also ran into some people that I used to work with.

with Tom & Sherry

We hung out and chatted for a while. It warmed up quickly and I shed my jacket.

sleeveless tech shirt

It was soon time to start but we realized that we were at the finish line not the start.

So we walked up a hill to the start.

I should mention that this race was run for the high school booster club. So there were a lot of kids running the race.

Were you Seen at the Albany Booster Club's Falcon 5K & Fun Run in Washington Park in Albany on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016? Photo: Diane Wilson

photo from the Times Union

The start was tricky….trying to run around the kids plus not getting run over by any. I knew right away that this was not going to be a good race. I was running as fast as I could and I was not moving. My first mile is usually in the 8’s but it was 9:22. Yikes!

photo from the TU

I love the course. It is very pretty especially when you run around the lake. And this time, the second loop didn’t even bother me. But there are hills. I was determined not to walk. I even passed the water stops.

I was not getting any faster so I finally gave up and walked during the 3rd mile. Luckily the finish was after a downhill so I sprinted as fast as I could so I would not finish over 29 minutes. And I crossed at 28:39.

Splits:

mile 1: 9:22
mile 2: 9:24
mile 3: 9:21
.1 – 6:50

28:36 (Garmin time)

Tom and Sherry had already finished so we hung out and got some food while waiting for the results.

found my friend’s granddaughter & boyfriend

photo by the TU

It seemed to take forever but I guess it was worth the wait since we all won.

I came in first, got my medal and had to rush off.

abcf5k

2 professors from where I used to work (the one taking the photo and the one with the medal)

It was much later than I realized so I had to run back to my car. I rushed to Best Buy to pick up something I had on order and then stopped on my way home to run. I had already run 1/2 mile to and from the race so I needed to run 5-7 more miles…. in a half hour. Ha ha ha!!

I got in two miles and called it a day. 6 interrupted miles for my last long run….it will have to do.

I was able to get to the professor’s house and help her. It took no time at all (if I had known, I could have done it on Saturday.) Then I went grocery shopping, weeded and finished the laundry.

I was sad to miss out on a beautiful boating day. There may not be many more this season.

our friend Ron with my hubby

Next weekend, I get to do it all over again.

apple5k

A Saturday 5K and hopefully some extra miles to prepare for my October 9 half marathon. And I am leaving Sunday open for boating.

And since it’s Tuesday, I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

for

Today’s topic is The most challenging aspect of running right now is _______.

My answer is FITTING IT ALL IN!!!!

Family, friends, work, housekeeping, training runs, races, tennis, gym (yes, order here matters).

I don’t know how you working moms do it. I just have to take care of myself (My hubby is pretty self sufficient) and I struggle everyday to fit in my runs and not neglect the rest of my life. In the scheme of things, running is not a priority. But I do want to train adequately for my races.

Any advice, you superwomen?

The second most challenging thing (because I can never stick to one thing) is improving BOTH my 5k and my half marathon times.

When I race and train long, I run slower, of course. I haven’t figured out how to get faster on those short races. But I don’t want to give up half marathons. So the answer may be that I can’t run faster 5ks and faster half marathons at the same time.

Any advice?

Happy Running! What challenges you the most in your running?

September 26, 2016 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday – Tonight was our first Troy Turkey Trot Training group run. So even though I ran 13.1 miles the day before, I had to go. It was a kind of reunion with the 10K runners. I just took it very slow. My favorite coach Patrick was leading the intermediate group so we had a new guy. He had up run outside the park and UPHILL for the first half of the run.

Tuesday – First night of indoor tennis. Since I started back at work, I haven’t played at all. Glad to get a little exercise and meet up with friends.

Wednesday – Unfortunately I had to miss my STEM volunteering since I had dinner plans with my tennis friends. I also had to work late so I had to skip my run.

always fun with these guys

Thursday – I discovered a walking trail near where I work so I don’t have to walk around the shopping mall.

Processed with Snapseed.

I met Alyssa and Barbara for a run after. It was warm (again!) but we had a pretty good run.

Afterwards, I met a friend for dinner and drinks at an Irish pub.

tart cheery hard cider, curry chicken salad & split the Guinness cheescake

Friday – Since I skipped my run on Wednesday, I decided to run today. Natalie agreed to accompany me.

Afterwards, I had my weekly mah jongg game.

Saturday – Today I proctored the LSATs (where I used to work) for 7 1/2 hours. (I had thought it would be only 3 hours and I would have time to visit a former professor to help her on her computer but I did not have time so I postponed it until Sunday.)

no exercise but i finished knitting a sock snd read a great book.

In the evening I went to the movies with friends.

so fun – really enjoyed it!

Sunday – Albany Booster Club Falcon 5K race. I had planned on another flatter course but got talked into this one by a friend. My friend did not show but it was still a fun race. The weather was perfect. However my legs were more tired than I expected (from those 13.1 miles last weekend?) so this was one of my slowest 5ks this year.

still won 1st in my age group

Afterwards I had planned to run more miles and make it my long run. However, I had to go to a former professor’s house to help her with her computer. I had stuff to do around the home. I had to go grocery shopping, etc. So it didn’t happen. I ran 1/2 mi to and from the race and 2 miles after. 6 miles for the day instead 11. C’est la vie!

15.4 miles done with 4 runs and 3 rest days. (recovery week)

This Week:

Monday – Turkey Trot Training group run (3 miles)
Tuesday – rest, tennis
Wednesday – 4 mile run with friends + volunteering with STEM group
Thursday – rest, hair appt
Friday – rest, mah jongg chez moi
Saturday – 5k race + 7 more
Sunday – boating?

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? Any races?

September 12, 2016 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday – It was a holiday and I signed up at the last minute for a 5K race. Not my best nor my worst. Scored 1st in my age group and met up with a lot of runners that I knew. But missed a day on the lake. Can’t have it all.

Tuesday – I took a trip to NYC because my friend Anna (from Russia) was going to be there (on her way back from a Maine wedding). Unfortunately the early trains were sold out so I took the bus and arrived around 1:30 pm. We walked to Pier 81 and had lunch on the North River Lobster Boat. Then we walked on the High Line and ended the day with drinks and crepes on the rooftop of the Standard Hotel. The weather was windy, cloudy and drizzly but still a wonderful day.

Since I saw her 3 years ago, she has taken up running. So proud!!

Wednesday -First day on the new job. Took a walk to Starbucks at lunch. (Yes I work near Starbucks again!!) Both Alyssa and Barbara had to cancel so I had to go it alone after work at UAlbany. It seemed that summer’s humidity had returned. Ugh!!

Thursday – Today was even hotter and more humid than yesterday. Another solo run on the rail trail.

Friday – a real rest day. I was supposed to meet a friend at the gym and I didn’t even do that. Mah jongg with my friends in the evening was fun.

Saturday – 5K race and then some miles afterward. The race was good. Actually one of my fastest this year and won 2nd in my age group. The run afterward was a struggle. I had to bribe myself with food.

won a bottle of champagne & a $50 gift card to the Recovery Room restaurant

it wasn’t pretty but got it done and my reward was delish

Sunday – Spent a perfect day on the lake. It was sunny, not too warm with a breeze. None of our friends were around so we docked on an island, had champagne (the bottle that I won at my race the day before) with our lunch, I read a book and then went for a hike.

21 miles done with 4 runs and 3 rest days.

This Week:

Monday – 4 mile run, gym, dinner out
Tuesday – rest, mall walk with BFF
Wednesday – 3 mile run with a friend+ volunteering with STEM group
Thursday – 4 mile run with a friend
Friday – rest, mah jongg
Saturday – rest, boating
Sunday – Saratoga Palio Half Marathon!!

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? Any races?

September 10, 2016 by Darlene

Malta 5K Race Recap

This race is one of my favorites. Not because the director, Paul Loomis, reads my blog or that my stepson works at Global Foundaries, one of the sponsors of the race. But because of the easy parking, indoor restrooms, post race chocolate milk, generous age group awards, lots of familiar faces to run with and its flawless organization. For these reasons and more, I keep coming back.

This was my 5th time running this 5k. So you can say that I was familiar with this course.

The course itself is not very exciting…you are running around chip plants but the loops let you see the fast runners and all those runners that are behind you twice during the race. And though there are a few uphills and downhills, it’s basically flat so no complaints.

In 2012, I finished in 29:53 (recovering from a broken ankle). In 2013, I finished in 29:49 (recovering from a broken foot). In 2014, I was healthy and finished 3rd in my AG with a time of 28:47.

getting my award from Paul Loomis

Last year, also healthy, I finished in 28:56 and 4th in my age group. But like this year, I was training for a half marathon. Running slow long runs doesn’t help my 5k times.

So my hope for the race this year was to get my splits in the 9s and finish under 30 minutes and have enough in the tank to run 5-7 more miles after the race. (My half marathon is only ONE week away!!!)

Winning an age group award would be gravy!!

The forecast was for cooler weather and possibly rain. However, it was 70 when I left my house at 6:45 am and already pretty humid.

I got there early to get parking and did get a spot in the parking lot right near the finish line. This race seems to get bigger each year. There were over 800 total racers.

a nice long sleeved tech shirt

As I mentioned, it is very well-organized – signs for the race, indoor bathrooms and waiting area, etc.

I immediately bumped into some older ladies that I haven’t in a while. Then I saw Holly, a friend from previous races and the Turkey Trot and Freihofer’s training group. I was surprised because she said was going to do the Dunkin Run. I was happy to see her … sort of. But she is in my age group and usually faster than me (except for the last 5k) and you know how competitive I am…

Then I ran into these older guys and we hung out until it was time to head to the start.

Richard (84) & Paul (67)

I was hoping that they would have net times this year but I they did not. So Holly, Gary and I started near the front but not too close to the speedsters.

The race started and Holly took off. I knew that I couldn’t keep up with her but I tried to keep her in my sight for as long as I could. A very similar pattern to last week.

I was able to follow Paul more closely. He was my unofficial pacer.

My first mile is always my fastest. I don’t try to go out fast but it always turns out that way. And every time, I can’t keep up so I slow down and walk. You think I would learn how to run a race with negative splits or not walk during a 5k.

Anyway, back to the race…There were 2 turn arounds so you got to see the faster and slower runners. It was amazing to see how fast the leaders were running – 3 runners finished with a pace under 5 minutes.

The first water stop was around mile 1.5 and I couldn’t wait to walk. I walked briefly. Around mile 2, I caught up to Holly and Paul but then you passed the same water stop around mile 2.5. At that water stop I walked even longer and Paul and Holly pulled ahead again.

But the walking gave my energy that I needed to finish strong. I was determined to break 29 minutes. I even at the last minute passed Holly (but not Paul). And I crossed at 27:30!!! (over a minute faster than my last 5k! Woo Hoo!)

Holly reminded me that last week, I beat her by 15 seconds and this week only 3!! However, I know soon, she will be back to beating me!!

We went inside to get some chocolate milk, fruit & bagels and chatted while waiting for the results.

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Holly is in the green top next to me

And we both won an awards. I got 2nd and Holly got 3rd!!

malta5k

Bonus – they started the awards with the oldies! That was great as I needed to leave and get my extra miles done!

This year, everyone got a small bottle of champagne and a gift card to a restaurant. Mine was to the Recovery Room and for $50. (I wonder how much first place got? Something to shoot for next year.)

Race Splits: (positive, as usual)
mile 1 – 8:46
mile 2 – 8:56
mile 3 – 9:01
.14 – 7:28

Garmin time: 27:27

found these signs all along the Zim Smith trail

The predicted rain never arrived and it was getting warmer with the sun even peeking out. I drove one exit south to the Zim Smith Bike Path and parked at Leah’s Cakery. (And yes, they were open!!)

I had planned to run 7 more miles. My legs were dead and they didn’t want to move but I was determined even if I walked a lot to get it done.

I went out 1.75 miles in one direction and returned to my car for water and then the same in the other direction. I was dragging. My pace was slow. I was sweating profusely and I walked frequently but I survived.

My reward was spinach mushroom quiche. And then coffee with peach cheese crumb pie. The best pie ever!!!

perfect, right?

Believe it or not, I stopped at the grocery store, library, bank, etc. on the way home. My legs will be mad at me tomorrow!

Happy Running! How was your weekend? Anything exciting like a race perhaps?

September 8, 2016 by Darlene

TOLT: NYC, Inspiring, Working, Etc.

thinking out loud

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

Here’s what I’m thinking about today:

NYC

Image result for I love nY

I was lucky to have gone to the city for my 4th time this summer on Tuesday.

Unfortunately I was only there for 5 hours and my only reason was to see my dear Russian friend, Anna.

She was my host when I first visited Russia 14 years ago.

in 2006, my 3rd visit to Russia

We have stayed in touch and she visits as often as she can. The last time was 3 years ago. This time she flew to the US for a wedding in Maine and decided to stop in NYC on her way back so I could see her.

So I took the bus down and we spent the day together. It was wonderful.

lunch on the North River Lobster boat

walk along the High Line

went to the rooftop of the Standard Hotel

and had dessert and drinks

Inspiring

I should mention that Anna is very much into fashion. Until this visit, I have only seen her in nice clothes and nice shoes. (In fact one year, she got blisters from walking around NYC in those shoes so she had to borrow my sneakers. She made me crop them out of every photo.)

In 2012, when she came to visit, she watched me in a race. Everyone got an medal and she seemed intrigued.

Now 4 years later, she tells me that she is a runner!!!!!!!!!! I was shocked!!

And she ran 2 days in a row in Central Park!! I feel like a proud parent!!!

She even mentioned that she wants to run a race and get a medal. Maybe even come back to the US and run one with me…

Work

Yup, I have a job. I’ve only worked 2 days so I can’t say much about it. I do feel like I am in a college class where I need to work hard to learn the material and then perform at a certain level. Let’s hope my “old” brain can absorb all this new stuff.

Racing

A lot of that. Coming up is a 5k, a half marathon, 2 5ks, a half marathon…

this Saturday

Fall

There’s pumpkin everything out but today the heat index was 90 degrees!?

Image result for pumpkin latte

I am have love-hate relationship with Fall. I love the pretty colors of the leaves and running in the cooler temps.

the rail trail where I run often

But it means the days are shorter and winter will be arriving. I HATE WINTER!!

Happy Running! What are you thinking about today? Have you ever inspired someone to start running? Do you like Fall?

September 6, 2016 by Darlene

Sefcu 5K Race Recap & TOTR

Hundreds of runners and walkers participated in the 27th annual ...

Last year’s pic from the Gazette

I had no intention of running this race. But FOMO got to me and it was only $15 so I signed up.

I had to run today anyway so now I would have company. After having run 12 miles on Saturday and having another 5k this Saturday, I had no plans to do anything but run.

Since I am usually on Lake George for the holiday (and I did spend the whole day there on Sunday), the only time I ran this race was in 2008, my first year running. My time was a not very impressive 33:03. So I thought that at least I could have a course PR for the day.

I am familiar with part of this course having trained for the Turkey Troy Trot on it and many of the HMRRC Winter Series races are also run here.

All I can say is that it is a boring course. You don’t run it for the scenery. It’s just office buildings and parking lots with a view of the highway.

photo from the Gazette 2015

I spent Sunday like this:

After a long day in the sun, dinner out and fireworks on the lake, I didn’t get home until 11:30 pm. And believe me, I was regretting my decision to run this race knowing all our friends would be out on the lake the next day.

But I dragged myself out of bed and drove to the race which was only 15 minutes away. I immediately ran into Holly, my friend Tom, a former student and so many more runners whom I knew.

I hung around talking to people that I hadn’t seen in a while.

another cotton shirt – ugh!

Many runners were doing their warm-up runs but I just walked around (my pre-race warm-up).

Soon it was time to begin (and I noticed the battery was low on my Garmin but it did last the 3.1 miles 🙂 ) and I lined up with Holly and Jackie (from the Turkey Trot and Freihofer’s running groups).

Holly who is in my age group and faster than me, took off and vanished. I tried to start at a decent pace but my legs felt like lead from my 12 miles 2 days before.

The course, though boring, is fairly flat – just some uphills and downhills but nothing challenging.

Though it was perfect running in temps (in the 60’s), the sun was very strong and I was HOT. I willed myself not to walk until the first water stop a little past the 1 mile mark. It helped but I still felt like I was running a lot slower.

I walked again at the second water stop for an even longer time – but it was needed. I wanted to finish strong but I was dragging.

All of sudden, I saw Holly. She had slowed down and I was able to pass her in the last half mile.

Eventually, I approached the finish line with not much left but I gave it my best shot and a even passed a guy at the last minute.

28:34 officially. A minute slower than my last 5k which I thought was a disaster. Still a course PR and lots of runners to chat with while waiting for the awards.

sefcu5k

And I won 1st in my age group, Holly second and Jackie third (in a younger age group).

I guess it pays to be old – this my fourth age group 1st place win in a row.

I was having FOMO looking at the FB pictures of my friends and hubby picnicking on Lake George but I am happy with my race.

Splits:

mile 1: 8:50
mile 2: 9:06
mile 3: 9:39
.14: 7:59

28:30 (Garmin time)

Since it Tuesday and it a “free” topic day, I’m linking up with

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

Happy Running!

September 1, 2016 by Darlene

TOLT: August Recap

Image result for august

Wow, the summer is flying by… Pumpkin lattes will be here before you know it…

So here’s how August went…

Weekday Runs:

Like July, August was HOT and humid most days and we had very little rain. I was able to run at least 3-4 times each week. But I do not have a treadmill at home so they were mostly slow sweaty ones.

Because I was not working, I was able to run wherever. I was not forced to run near home or near work. So I tried to do my runs in many different places – Chestertown, Crossings, Corning Trail, Colonie Town Park, Nisky Trail, Zim Smith Trail, Rail Trail, UAlbany, etc.

I also ran with Alyssa 4 times. I met her on FB. These were, no doubt, besides my 5k races my faster runs. I struggle when I run with her but she gets me to run faster. She says that I make her faster . Win-Win.

I re-connected with Barbara and Judy and ran with them each once. It’s more fun running with friends.

: with Judy

Long Runs:

There were TWO!!!. I ran races or went boating on the weekends. So I managed to move these runs to Monday.

Total Mileage:

I ran 89 miles this month – finally some improvement.

aug

Races:

I ran three races this month – a 8.4 miler, a 10K and a 5K.

: Aug 20

: Aug 13

: 2016

I was generally happy with how they went. I did not have PR goals and of course, they could have been faster. I won age group awards in all three. That’s an achievement. The 8.4 and 10k races were very HILLY! The only one I felt could be better was the 5k. We are, though, our own toughest critics.

Cross Training:

I was STILL unemployed and I played tennis. But not as often as in the beginning of the summer.

I DID NOT go to a single yoga class!! Someday I will do, I promise.

lheartspaceogo

I did workout at the gym at least three times. I know that I could go more often but it’s better than nothing.

I walked to the tennis courts when I played nearby and occasionally did go for a walk. But not as often as when I worked. I think that the tennis and the hiking (see below) made up for it, though.

my favorite place to walk – rail trail

Other News:

I went hiking again…by myself and with some friends. Love it. Once to Pinnacle Point in Bolton Landing and then on four trails in Chestertown.

I took a trip to NYC with my two of my friends. We listened to Broadway tunes in Bryant Park and then walked to the Metropolitan Museum of Art to see the Costume Institute. What a full but exciting day!!

I also took a day trip to the Saratoga Race Track with a friend. We had breakfast, watched and bet on the races and then stopped by the Casino (where I won $77).

I spent two wonderful weekends with my knitting and mah jongg friends on the Schroon River. I did some running but mostly played tennis, knit or played mah jongg and ate.