November 4, 2015 by Darlene

NYRR Dash to the Finish Line Race – Before, During & After

I witnessed the end of this race on a trip to NYC in 2013.

near the marathon finish line (2013)

That day, I knew that I wanted to run this race. It didn’t work out last year but this year, I signed up.

I reserved a room for the night before the race in an AirBnB apartment – not as nice as the one in Brooklyn but since it worked out well then, I wasn’t nervous about it this time.

I again took the $5 megabus to NYC on Friday. Unfortunately my host wasn’t as flexible as the last and I couldn’t check into my room until 6 pm.

So I checked my bag at Macys (it’a free) and then took the subway to Little Italy.

I had booked a Italian Food Tour from 12-2 pm.

It was so enjoyable. I got to see and visit some of the colorful and historical sites of this old Italian neighborhood (My hubby is Italian and he would have loved it.) such as, Parisi Bakery, Alleva Dairy, Lombardi’s Pizza, Ferrara Bakery, famous movie locations, the Curb Exchange, Petrosino Square, Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral. I also got to sample some great Italian food – fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, bread, pizza, cannoli (Carb loading, right?) There were only 5 people on the tour (a group of 6 cancelled at the last moment) so we had double the food (and had to eat it 🙂 ). The other 4 women & I bonded immediately and had a great time. They even convinced me to stay in Ferrara’s to have coffee with them after the tour.

Christmas decorations up already?

former police station – now expensive apts (Steffi Graf lived here)

Allevas – old cheese store in the US

Lombardi’s = best pizza ever!!!

I ate the cannoli too fast to take a pic

Next, I had buy some homemade gelato (you have to when in Little Italy) and took the subway back into the city to the Javitz Center where the NYC Marathon expo was being held.

Of course, it was huge and crowded. Most people who were there were running the Marathon. I picked up my race packet for the 5k and walked around checking out the booths. I was supposed to meet Pam from We Run Disney but I spent time fixing the age on my bib and we just missed each other. Well, though tempted, the only thing I bought was some Gu (cuz it was only $1)

After the expo, I walked back to Macy’s to pick up my bag. I had been walking straight since 10 am and now it was 5 pm so I stopped to have a light dinner and put my feet up. Then finally I left to check into my room.

the apt on 39th (bet 8th & 9th)

Marilyn & Michelle, my hosts, didn’t live in the apartment (which was different than the situation for the one in Brooklyn). She rented all 4 bedrooms – 2 being real rooms & the other 2 (like below) being makeshift. It was fine but I would have preferred the real bedroom (…next time).

practical but not ideal

After settling in, I had planned to check out TKTS and get a cheap ticket to a Broadway show but I was too pooped. So I stayed in and finished a book.

The next morning, I got up early and had my usual breakfast (oatmeal & tea) and took a cab to the race start. I didn’t want to mess with subways and crowds at this hour. The cab driver was nice and asked me what I wanted to pay rather using the meter. I didn’t know what to say (according to Uber it would cost $22.50) so I said $10 and he said ok. Then I realized I only had a $20 bill with me. He actually let me stop and get change. He took me to the UN (42nd & 1st) and when it wasn’t the start, he took me to 49th (The start was on 47th but close enough).

the start line in front of the UN

the large group from France ran from where I took my cab (almost 2 miles) to the start

I got there plenty early, actually too early (7:15 am). It was cold!! Probably in the 30s but scheduled to warm up to the 40s by the start.

I was really lucky. I spotted 3 ladies (from Toronto) in a doorway. It turned out be UN ambassador headquarters and there was doorman and a overhead heater. (The UN ambassador from the US was actually running the race). The 4 of us hung out there until it was time to line up in our corrals. The ladies were running the 5k and their husbands the marathon the next day.

The corrals were lettered A-Z depending your pace. I was in G (10 minute pace.) One of the Canadian ladies was in corral A because she put her time in kilometres not miles LOL.

So I took of my throw away shirt and tied my jacket around my waist (for later) and wandered about 7 blocks to my spot.

There were over 10,000 runners from 130 countries. The energy was so contagious. Some runners were there to have fun and dressed up in costume. Others were warming up for the marathon the next day and there were also runners like me who couldn’t run 26.2 miles so ran 3.1 instead.

Finally it was time to start but of course, it took a while for me to cross the start line. It was slow going at first but I just tried to enjoy the experience and pick up some speed at the same time. I knew I would slow down when I met the hills of Central Park.

This was the course:

Mile 1: We started at Dag Hammarskjold Plaza on 47th Street between First and Second avenues and headed south. Then we turned right on 42nd Street and headed west. We passed Grand Central Station, the Chrysler Building, Bryant Park. Next we turned right onto Sixth Avenue.

can you spot me? (On the left – orange shirt)

Mile 2: We proceeded up Sixth Avenue toward Central Park. We passed Radio City, the Plaza hotel and lots of screaming spectators and then turned right on Central Park South/59th Street. Finally we turned left into Central Park at Grand Army Plaza.

Mile 3: We entered the park, then turned left onto West Drive. We ran those rolling hills and curved around the bottom of the park eventually finishing at the NYC Marathon finish line, on West Drive at 67th Street.

This was probably the most fun, I’ve ever had at a race. I never looked at my Garmin. I knew that my first mile was slow because you just couldn’t start running for a while. Even then, I had to weave through the crowds at many points. (The serious runners were obviously faster than me). Plus, my legs just felt like lead after standing in the cold for over an hour. I felt perfectly dressed, even a little warm at times. At the water stop (which I didn’t stop at), there was a wall of people just stopped but I just smiled and weaved around them. The hills in Central Park slowed me down but I didn’t walk and they weren’t as bad as I had feared. I was thrilled to see the finish line but I just couldn’t muster up a sprint (??).

was I walking across the finish line??

I couldn’t tell by the clock at the finish line but I checked my watch and I did finish in less than 29 minutes!! So I was happy!

Once you crossed the finish line, they handed you a bag of food and ushered you along.

I’ve never been at a race this big that was so organized. There were volunteers everywhere.

I texted Pam again hoping to meet up but she had already finished her shakedown run in the park so we planned to keep in touch for the rest of the day.

Spike Lee’s car for the next day

brand new pavilion – I didn’t make it on Friday and they were closed today.

After following the path out of the park, I had to wind my way back because I had brunch reservations at Tavern on the Green.

I was too early but they were nice enough to give me a table anyway.

they didn’t even mind that I was sweaty

The food was expensive and but tasty (and something you only do once.)

Next on the schedule was sightseeing, leaf peeping and running 5 miles in Central Park.

I planned to head North on the west side, run around Jackie O’s reservoir and then run back on the east side.

It amazed me how many people were running in Central Park. At times, it felt like a race.

Jackie O Reservoir

And that’s what I did (I didn’t connect with Pam – she was on the east side when I was on the West side & vice versa). I ran and took photos (lots) and although I may have walked more than ran, I covered my planned distance.

still a lot leaves on the trees down here

took a break and climbed to the top of Belvedere Castle

at the Water Consevancy

I stopped at the Plaza on my way back to my room (checkout was 3 pm) and found a food court on the lower level (tempted to have a treat but abstained.

this reminded me of my racecation in Philly

I also stopped at Bryant Park.

ice skating in Oct??

I walked through Times Square before arriving at my room – pooped again.

I still had time to kill before my bus. I stopped for dinner

NYC – matzoh ball soup – what else?

and made a 2nd trip to expo.

the expo was closing so 20% off – had to buy, right?

Yes, a full 2 days in the Big Apple!

I had great weather and everything went perfectly!

The highlight, of course, was the race even though it only took a half hour.

I finished 17th in my Age Group out of 110 runners – Not too bad considering the crowded conditions.

Splits:

mile 1 – 9:41 (slow start)
mile 2 – 8:23
mile 3 – 9:15
.14 – 9:05 (slowest finish ever!!)

28:37 (Garmin time)
28:59 race time

I may have to do this one again!! Who wants to do it with me?

Happy Running! Did you run or race this past weekend?

November 2, 2015 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday– I squeezed in a short walk at work and then after work, went to my 6th Troy Turkey Trot training group run. The hills still kill me and the slower runners didn’t come so I was struggling to keep up.

it was actual 3 fast miles

Tuesday – Just a normal work day with a lunchtime walk and then 1 1/2 hours of tennis after work and dinner out after.

Wednesday – My walk was rained out and my STEM client had a dentist appt. So I was forced onto the treadmill. I haven’t watched any TV since last winter so watching Nashville on my iPad was the only good thing about the run. After my run, I rushed off to my monthly dinner out with the tennis ladies.

3 miles

steak, pasta & pumpkin cheese cake…oh my!

Thursday – Had a busy work day but walked during lunch. After work, I met a running friend, Barbara, for a short run on the rail trail. That was nice to have the company and though I was tired, I ran faster than I would have if I were running alone.

Friday – Today I had the day off from work so I could take the bus down to NYC. After checking my bag at Macy’s, I took the subway to Little Italy for my Italian Food Tour of NYC. After the 2 hour tour, I headed to the expo to pickup my race bib and soak up some NYC Marathon energy. Finally I checked into my room and called it a day.

Saturday – I got up early to get to the start of my 5K. I ran 3.1 miles from the UN and through the NYC Marathon finish line. It was so cool. Then I had brunch at Tavern on the Green. Since it was a beautiful sunny, cool day, I continued running 5 more miles in Central Park – Heaven! After checking out of my room, I had diner & then went back to the expo before catching my bus home.

28:59 – 17 out of 110 in my AG

5 more miles

Sunday – A well deserved rest day but really so much to do around the house.

17 miles done with 4 runs and 3 rest days.

This Week: (4 weeks until Half Marathon)

Monday- 3 mile run (with the Turkey Trot Training group), mall walk with my BFF
Tuesday – tennis
Wednesday – 2 mile run during work, 2 mile walk/run with STEM client
Thursday – rest
Friday – 4 mile run, mah jongg
Saturday – proctor MPREs, race packet pickup
Sunday -15K race, anniversary mah jongg dinner

I am linking up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by Holly @ HoHoRuns and Tricia @ MissSippiPiddlin. See rules here.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any races ?

November 1, 2015 by Darlene

October Recap & Runfessions

OCTOBER GOALS:

Run 3-4 times each week. YES!

I continue to run 3-4 miles during the week trying to vary my running courses.

near work

on the new rail trail

Continue the long runs on the weekend. YES!

But not as long since I was tapering and then just beginning to train for next one.

10/3 – 9.2 miles

10/17 – 6.2 miles (10K race)

10/25 – 7 miles

109/31 – 5 miles post 5K race

Run a 5k race under 29 minutes. YES

It wasn’t a PR but it was faster than my last few 5ks.

28:01

I just ran this one for fun and it was.

28:59 (28:37 – Garmin time)

Run a 10K race under 60 minutes. YES!

59:19 – 3rd in AG

Finish a half marathon under 2:25:00 NOPE! But close.

2:25:47 – stupid lower back pain

Do some yoga. NO! 😦
Start doing planks again. Not really. 😦
Continue running with a group. YES!

every Monday (I skip the Saturday runs though)

Walk 70,000 steps each week. YES!

Oct 10 – new record high

My FitBit has motivated me to take the stairs at work and walk at lunch most days.

park is beautiful this time of year

Pick a spring half marathon. NO!

But I did register for another winter one (EAU Palm Beach on Dec 6).

I registered for NYC on March 20 but I don’t know if I’ll get in.

I will also try to get into Brooklyn on May 14 (registration doesn’t open until Jan) as well as VCM (if AJH wants to run the relay again.)

Run at least 85 miles. Nope! But close.

Start a knitting project. Nope not yet.

What else?

Went to NYC with my tennis friends.

We walked the High Line and saw the Carole King musical Beautiful.

Had a nice time touring Brooklyn before and after my race.

I walked over the Brooklyn Bridge and visited Prospect Park on Saturday.

After the race, I spent the afternoon on Coney Island.

Volunteered with the STEM program again.

I run with Kelly after work on Wednesdays. She is going to do great in her first 5K.

Spectated at a Duathlon.

I was my 4th time watching AJH compete in this race and I enjoyed it. If it were warmer, I would have enjoyed it even more 🙂

Walked over the Walkway Bridge with my college BFF.

After meeting at the Clark Institute in September, we decided to get together more often. Unfortunately, my other college friend fell and broke her ribs & collar bone biking and couldn’t come. I’m glad we chose to walk instead of bike. The day turned out great.

Saw my Mentee’s son.

We went to Ellms Family Farm which has become an annual fall tradition for us. (Unfortunately his mom had to work.)

Ran a race in NYC…finally!

Dash to the Finish 5k

It started at the UN and 3.1 miles later, I crossed the NYC Marathon finish line. What a great experience.

Took a Food Tour of Little Italy the day before the race.

And got to run around Central Park on a beautiful fall day after the race.

November Goals:

Run 3-4 times each week.
Continue long runs on the weekend.
Run a 5k race under 29 minutes.
Run a 10K race under 60 minutes.
Run a 15K race under 1:35.
Start going to the gym once a week.
Do those planks!
Continue running with a group.
Walk 70,000 steps each week.
Run at least 80 miles.

This month I’m linking up again with Marcia’s Healthy Slice for Runfessions.

I think I may have to make these yearly Runfessions rather monthly because they repeat.

I runfess..,.

I am still in weight la la land. I have no idea how much I weigh since my scale STILL has no battery.

I runfess…

I have not gone to the gym or signed up for a yoga class.

I want to but things get in the way (mostly running.)

I runfess…

I have only run once with my STEM client (victim of Domestic violence.) She has cancelled and I haven’t been able to reschedule . Each time, I am secretly happy because that means I can run on my own nearby.

I hope it works out for the next few Wednesdays because she is very sweet and a good runner.

I runfess…

On my training group runs, I walk up the hills and I do not run fast on the speed drills.

I am either too tired after work or did my long run the day before. I better get it together or my Turkey Trot 10k will suck.

I runfess…

I love taking pictures when I run. This means that I stop and walk … A LOT. I should leave my phone home but fall is so pretty.

I runfess…

My fitbit excitement is wearing off already (after one month.)

I am sitting more at work and now it doesn’t bother me when I don’t hit 10,000 steps.

I runfess…

I don’t drink anything caffeinated. I drink herbal tea in the morning. But I think I use sweets for energy.

Yup, cider donuts, pumpkin poptarts, etc … If I am tired, I eat.

I runfess..

I jump into things without thinking them through.

So I signed up for a half marathon on Dec 6 in Florida. It’s on a Sunday and I arrive on Friday. Though I have friends to stay with on Friday & on Sunday, it’s going to be inconvenient. The Race is in West Palm, one lives 1/2 hour north and one lives 1/2 hour south. Last time, I arrived the day before the race and stayed for a few days after. It worked out well but this time, I was afraid of transportation snafus.

Happy Running! How was your October? Anything interesting planned for November? Do you have something to Runfess?

October 29, 2015 by Darlene

Thinking Out Loud Thursday: So much to do & so little time

So I’m linking up today with Amanda for Thinking Out Loud Thursday.

Here’s what I’m thinking today…

I am going to NYC early tomorrow and coming home late Saturday.

The purpose of this trip to NYC is to run the NYRR Dash to the Finish Line 5K on Saturday morning.

8:30 am Oct 31, 2015

Originally, I thought that I had so much time….

I was wondering what I was going to do all day Friday and then all day Saturday… by myself.

Now I have so many things planned that there isn’t enough time…

FRIDAY:

Check my bag in Macy’s. (~9:30 am)

If you ever go to NYC, there is a free bag check in the basement at 34th & Broadway. Of course, I’ll want to leave Macy’s right away and not be tempted to shop.

Italian Food Tour of NYC (12- 2 pm)

I found a great Groupon for this…

Immerse yourself in the food and culture of one of New York’s most colorful neighborhoods, Little Italy, and sample some of the best Italian food in NYC. Hear the stories behind the historic Italian landmarks that defined the immigrant experience at the turn of the 20th Century. Every delicatessen, bakery and pizza shop on The Italian Food Tour Of New York is over 100 years old! (All food is included, 4 course lunch on the go.)

ITINERARY:

Parisi Bakery Frank Sinatra considered himself addicted to their prosciutto infused bread, as have many others over the past 103 years since this bakery opened!

Alleva Dairy The oldest cheese shop in America, this still family-owned and operated shop whips up 4,000 pounds a week of the freshest mozzarella and ricotta you’ll ever taste!

Lombardi’s Pizza America’s oldest pizzeria! Their 106 year old coal oven still impresses locals, tourists, and international foodies alike

Ferrara Bakery Lucky for you, your tour guide has line jumping privileges. The line to this bakery has been one of the longest in New York since 1892!

Movie Locations Being Little Italy you’ll recognize locations from films like The Godfather, Donnie Brasco, Mean Streets, Serpico, and even Sex and the City!

Curb Exchange The bootlegging depot of New York during the Prohibition era. See where all the deals went down, and find out what happened when they fell through…

Petrosino Square The public space named after New York’s first Italian detective, who took on the five points gangs in a fight to the death!

Old St. Patrick’s Cathedra The first Catholic Church in New York, this 200 year-old has hosted many high profile film productions, weddings, and memorial services. Take a look inside, you’ll be wowed!

Get to the NYC Marathon pavilion (at some point, maybe??)

The brand-new TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion will be open to runners, race supporters, and the public. It’ll serve as an entertainment hub and welcome center for this incredible race. The state-of-the-art space, located at Tavern on the Green, features a beautiful glass structure with a bar and café catered by the wonderful chefs of the Tavern on the Green. It also includes official TCS New York City Marathon merchandise and lots of running-related programming.

9:00–11:00 a.m. Kathrine Switzer Book Signing Meet the author and purchase Marathon Woman in the book signing area.

2:00 p.m. Movie Trailer Screening: Tracktown Including a special appearance by filmmaker and famed runner Alexi Pappas.

Go to the EXPO to get my race packet.

It’s at the Javits Center and it’s for the NYC Marathon, as well. I need to hold back on the buying but we’ll see what I find that I want and don’t need.

Pick up my bag at Macy’s
Check into my room. (6 pm)

It’s on 38th & 9th. I reserved it through AirBnB. Since it went so well when I ran the RNR Brooklyn Half, I am not nervous about this one.

Pre-race Dinner nearby

SATURDAY:

Get to the race start. (7:30 am)

It starts at the UN and there will be probably around 15,000 runners. Unfortunately, bag check is at the end (Central Park) so I guess I will not be checking anything.

The RACE (8:30 am)

I am very excited about it. Hopefully it will not be raining or cold. I am asking for sunshine.

Brunch at Tavern on the Green (10:15 am)

I’ve eaten here years ago but then the restaurant closed. Now it’s open and I made reservations. So I will be eating in a fancy restaurant in my sweaty running clothes… How cool is that?

Run in Central Park

I plan to do at least 5 miles (along side all the marathoners doing their last pre-race run.) It will be a slow run since I will have just had a big meal but I looking forward to seeing the fall foliage in the park.

a photo that I took 2 years ago when I was there on this day

Hit the Pavilion?
Check out of my room (3 pm)
Have lunch/dinner
Walk the High Line or visit the Expo again

12118644_10154215210414428_1627727888156201846_n

picture from October when I was on the High lIne

Catch my bus (6:15 pm)

The bus leaves from the beginning of the High Line and across the street from the Expo. Very convenient for last minute strolling or shopping.

Wow…I am going to be busy. Remember this is NYC…things are not close by. I’ll be a pro at riding the subway in Manhattan by the end of my visit.

Of course, I would make room for any blogger meetups so you are in NYC tomorrow or Saturday, please let me know!

Now it’s just thinking about what to wear.…

Weather Forecast:

I will probably wear this shirt (since it is Halloween)

and these capris

I can wear throw away stuff before the race but the problem will be afterwards if I am cold and have nothing to wear…

Race Goals:

Nada. Nothing. Just have fun!!

Happy Running! What are you thinking about today?

October 26, 2015 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday– I squeezed in a walk at work and then after work, went to my 5th Troy Turkey Trot training group run. The hills killed me, as usual. We did intervals this week – 3 minute sprints 2 minute recovery (well, I didn’t actually sprint.) Afterwards, I met my BFF at the mall to walk and chat.

3.5 – intervals

Tuesday – Just a normal work day, but my lunchtime walk was postponed by rain until after work when the sun came out. Then I rushed to play 1 1/2 hours of tennis followed by dinner out.

Wednesday – I squeezed in a walk at work and my run with the STEM program (a Couch to 5k program for survivors of domestic violence.) was cancelled so I met Judy at the Crossings to run with her. It’s always fun to have company and to enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Thursday – Had a busy work day but still got in a late walk to the park at lunch and then after work, it was raining and I was REALLY tired so I bagged my run. (I hate when I do that!)

Friday – Today was supposed to be a rest but I decided to run at lunch. It was chilly and windy but was happy to get it done.

Saturday – Met one of my college friends in Poughkeepsie to walk over the Walkway Bridge and stroll on the scenic bike path.

Sunday – Didn’t have to get up early to squeeze in a 7 mile run. My mentee had to work so I took one of her sons to Ellms Family Farms in the afternoon – went on rides, mazes, picked pumpkins, ate cider donuts, had a great day!

rained before & after my run

colder and windier in the afternoon

17.5 miles done with 4 runs and 3 rest days.

This Week: (5 weeks until Half Marathon)

Monday- 3 mile run (with the Turkey Trot Training group)
Tuesday – tennis
Wednesday – 2 mile run during work, 2 mile walk/run with STEM client, dinner with tennis ladies
Thursday – 3 mile run during work
Friday – DAY OFF, rest, bus to NYC, Italian Food Tour of NYC, expo to pick up race packet
Saturday – 5K race in NYC, run 5 more miles in Central Park, hang out in Manhattan, bus home
Sunday – rest day

I am linking up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by Holly @ HoHoRuns and Tricia @ MissSippiPiddlin. See rules here.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any races ?

October 6, 2015 by Darlene

Apple Run 5k Race Recap

I ran this race last year because 2 ladies whom I met at a previous race raved about it.

after last year’s race

I enjoyed it so I signed up again.

Back to last year. This race came when I was running fast like finishing a 5k in 27:xx. So I finished this race in 27:47 and won 1st in my age group.

This year, it’s a different story. I am slower. Maybe it’s my age or my training. Who knows? I walk during my 5ks and my goal is to finish under 30 minutes. If I am very lucky and it’s a flat course, I can finish under 29 minutes.

But as I commented recently, I am running. I am not injured. All is good.

On a weekend where there was good number of local races, 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 last year, I don’t remember much about the course.

Apparently we quickly switched from summer to fall in a few days.

It was chilly and windy. But at least we didn’t get the hurricane.

I was the crazy person who refuses to wear capris or tights before Thanksgiving.

wearing my peekaboo skirt and top by SkirtSports

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.

nice swag – 2 pairs of sunglasses on this cloudy day. too bad we got a cotton t-shirt

I bumped into the 2 older ladies that I see at most races that I run. (They are now in the 65-69 AG). We chatted for awhile before the race. I also met some older gentlemen who were very talkative.

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.)

I should say that I was very cold. My neck, my hands… my whole body. I couldn’t wait to get started. I shoudl have started closer to the front since this race was using chips but I was talking instead of paying attention.

Unfortunately, the first mile was running into the wind…I felt like I was barely moving forward at times. It was a battle and I think the wind won. My first mile which is my fastest was not great.

The rest of the race was run around the neighborhood with quite a few turns.

I was so cold that I didn’t want to stop at any of the water stops.

I just wanted to be done.

I actually didn’t feel the need to stop. I was not tired or out of breath as usual. I was just not giving it everything I had.

I think that I was nervous about getting hurt before my half marathon that is in one week. I didn’t want to ruin what for 12 weeks I had trained for.

So heading to the finish line, we were so lucky to be running into that wind again! UGH!

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.

But I had nothing left and finished at 28:01.

Though it wasn’t the time that I had run this course last year (27:47) but it was faster than I’ve run a 5k in months.

I was happy and glad to get inside out of the cold.

Inside there was pizza, bagels, fruit, etc. I ate and waited with my friends for the awards. I won 1st last year but if you look below, you’ll see that there was a very fast runner who is now in my age group and wasn’t last year- DARN!

I didn’t win any raffle prizes but I did win 2nd.

Since they gave the awards starting with us “older” runners, I was able to head out to continue my running.

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

My splits:

mile 1 – 9:02
mile 2 – 9:09
mile 3 – 9:00
.14 – 7:29

8 miles was on the schedule. So I stopped on the way home to add 5 more.

still green – late color change in the NE

This time I decided to run on the Mohawk Towpath Byway.

I was still cold so I added a tee shirt over my long sleeved shirt.

I was definitely tired. This always happens when I run a race for my first few miles.

But I just walked and ran and got the miles in.

I wasn’t paying attention and ran too far.

So I ended up with 6 more sloooow miles.

And my last long run is done!! YAY!

I’m linking this one up with Jessica at The Silvah Lining–she hosts a Race Recap linkup every Tuesday. Please head over and linkup a race recap you’ve written, new or old. And check out some of the other posts!

I’m also linking up with MCM Mama Runs, Run the Great Wide Somewhere, and My No Guilt Life for the Tuesdays on the Run linkup;

Happy Running!

October 5, 2015 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday– I squeezed to in a walk at work and then after work, went to my 2nd Troy Turkey Trot training group run. (I had skipped Saturday.) It felt tougher this week than last. Holly was too fast to catch so I ran by myself. I had to walk many times on the hills of Prospect Park.

Tuesday – Just a work day, my lunchtime walk was rained out and no tennis this week. Had to get my steps in by grocery shopping.

Wednesday – I squeezed in a short run on the treadmill at work. (It was pouring out so I couldn’t run outside.) I wasn’t sure if I would make it to the STEM group run/walk on time after work. It’s a Couch to 5k program for survivors of domestic violence. But I could have since this new group is closer. It stopped raining 🙂 And actually, this fall, I am just running with one lady, Kelly, and her basement got flooded so she cancelled at the last minute. Since I was already dressed, I ran 2.5 more miles. After that run, I went out to dinner with my tennis friends.

2 miles of torture

2.5 miles near work

great dinner & great company

Thursday – A busy work day but managed a walk around campus at lunch and then a run after work with Judy.

feeling like Fall

stopped at Trader Joe’s on the way home …pumpkin pumpkin everywhere you look

Friday – Another work day, with a lunch time walk and a few games of mah jongg in the evening (and I won twice!!)

Saturday – Started the day with a cold & windy 5k and then drove to run 6 more for my last long run before the half.

not a PR but No Walking for a 28:01 finish and 2nd in my AG

still chilly & cloudy at the Mohawk Towpath Byway

Sunday – Today 12 of us went to NYC. We took the bus down, walked the High Line and then had lunch in Chelsea. After lunch we went to see the show Beautiful (Carole King story) on Broadway. Afterwards, we had dinner and took the train home – long but fun day (8 miles of walking!)

19 miles for the week with only 3 rest days and 4 days of running. Half Marathon is one week away!!! Time to get nervous!

This Week: (Week #11 of HM training)

Monday- 3 mile run (with the Turkey Trot Training group), mall walk with my BFF
Tuesday – tennis
Wednesday – 3 mile run before work, volunteer walk/run with STEM group
Thursday – rest
Friday – rest, bus to NYC, subway to Brooklyn, expo, etc.
Saturday – 13.1 miles!! recovery walk around NYC, bus home
Sunday – rest, last day of boating or spectating the local marathon??

I am linking up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by Holly @ HoHoRuns and Tricia @ MissSippiPiddlin. See rules here.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any races ?

October 1, 2015 by Darlene

Thinking Out Loud Thursday: September Recap

Thursdays are for thinking… so I am linking up with Running With Spoons…

So here’s what I’m thinking…

Can’t believe that summer is over and it’s now Fall!

So how did this past month go?

September Goals:

Run 3-4 times each week. Yes.

I varied my runs and tried to run at different times of day and in different locations.

at the lake

in a new neighborhood before work

in the park after work

on the track

on the rail trail

Continue the long runs on the weekend in preparation for Half marathon #15. YES.

I have gotten up to 12 miles. None were exceptional but that’s the way they always are. Many were add-ons after races too.

Run a 5k race under 29 minutes. YES!

Just barely. But I have not done any speed work training.

28:56

Run a 10K race under 60 minutes. NO but almost.

Helper’s Fund 10K -1:00:10 – too much walking but 2nd in my AG

Take a yoga class. NO!

I now have a training group run on Mondays, tennis on Tuesday, mentor a run on Wednesdays. I guess I have to look for a Thursday class. But I did sign up for a 14 day Yoga Challenge – a video pose for each day but I only did the first 3 days.

Start doing planks again. NO!

I may have done them a few times but not often enough to call it a YES. No excuses here… just plain lazy.

Pick a spring half marathon. NO!

Still deciding. I’d like to do the Vermont City Relay again but it’s a lottery. Also would LOVE to run the NYC Half but that’s a lottery too. I am considering a few at the end of April or beginning of May as backups.

Run at least 90 miles. YES!

93 miles. Half marathon training has helped keep my mileage up. It’s the most monthly miles I’ve run since last December when I was training for half # 11.

What else?

Still lots of lake time.

We were lucky to have a warm September.

Joined the Troy Turkey Trot Training Challenge for the 2nd year.

Although I will only go on Mondays since I have races on Saturdays, I enjoy it. And it’s good for me to push myself and run hills or do speed work.

Starting Mentoring the STEM running group (survivors of domestic violence training for a 5k)

The first week, I got there late due to traffic so I switched to another group in a closer location. They meet 3x a week but I will go on Wednesdays and run with one lady.

Lots of eating out in restaurants.

Not sure if that is a good thing. There’s been the after boating eat outs, my mil’s 90th birthday party and my monthly tennis get together.

OCTOBER GOALS:

Run 3-4 times each week.
Continue the long runs on the weekend.
Run a 5k race under 29 minutes.
Run a 10K race under 60 minutes.
Finish a half marathon under 2:25:00
Do some yoga.
Start doing planks again.
Continue running with a group.
Walk 70,000 steps each week.
Pick a spring half marathon.
Run at least 85 miles.
Start a knitting project.

Happy Running! How was your September? Anything interesting planned for October? What arer your thinking about today?

September 14, 2015 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday– Day off from work and I was recovering from my partying on the lake the day before but I did drag myself out for 4 scenic slow miles before spending the rest of the day on the lake.

Tuesday – Played tennis for 1 1/2 hours indoors and then watched the USOpen on TV with friends, pizza, wings & beer.

Wednesday – Knowing it was going to be very warm, I decided to run before work. I was tired from going to bed to late the night before but managed 3 miles in the neighborhood.

Thursday – Another warm day and forecast for storms got me and a hair appointment after work out of bed early for another before work run. This time 4 miles and I finished before the rain started.

Friday -No work today. I met my college BFF in Williamstown, MA to see the Van Gogh & Whistler’s Mother exhibit at the Clark Art Institute.

It was great and we also enjoyed a nice lunch and hike.

may have been too much walking for a day before a long run… but so worth it

Saturday – I ran one of my favorite 5Ks

28:56 – not a PR or an AG group but still fun

and then added more miles to make a total of 11.5 for the day.

may have been my slowest long run ever – tired…humid…but enjoyed the scenery

After watching a great US Open women’;s final on TV, we went out to dinner and then I ordered a new phone (iPhone 6s!!!)

Sunday – The boating season is winding down so I thought that we would drove up to spend one more day on the lake. But the weather didn’t cooperate so I spent a day catching up at home.

22.5 miles for the week with only 3 rest days and 4 days of running. Half Marathon is 4 weeks away!!! Gulp!

This Week: (Week #9 of HM training)

Monday- 4 mile run
Tuesday – rest, tennis after work
Wednesday – 3 mile run before work, yoga?
Thursday – 4 mile run before work
Friday – rest
Saturday – 12 mile run, boating?
Sunday – rest, mah jong at the Schroon River House

I am linking up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by Holly @ HoHoRuns and Tricia @ MissSippiPiddlin. See rules here.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any races ?

September 13, 2015 by Darlene

Malta 5K Race & LSD Recap

This was my 4th time running this 5k. So you can say that I was familiar with this course.

The course is very boring…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 it’s pretty 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). Last year, I was healthy and finished 3rd in my AG with a time of 28:47.

last year getting my award

So the trend is for me to get faster. However, this year I am training for a half marathon and have been doing slow long runs on the weekend. (Even my races haven’t been fast.) So my goal was to get my splits in the 9s and finish under 30 minutes and have enough in the tank to run more miles after the race.

Luckily the hot weather that we had been having took a break.

It was in the 50s when I left the house so I dressed like this:

it was a comfortable shirt that matched my shoes but I was too warm when I was running

I got there early to get parking. This race has really grown. There was 250 runners from Global Foundries alone (where the race took place) and almost 900 total racers.

It is very well-organized – signs for the race, indoor bathrooms and waiting area, etc.

As I was waiting, my stomach started to feel the effects of the spicy food that I had eaten the day before and my legs were already tired from the walking and hiking, as well.

Soon I bumped into Holly, a friend from previous races and the Turkey Trot and Freihofer’s training group. We walked to the start together. She is now in my age group and FASTER!

They had said that they were going to have net times this year but I they did not. So Holly 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.

My first mile is always my fastest. I usually give it all I got and I did today but I guess I didn’t have that much. I just couldn’t keep it under 9 minutes. (Could it be my new Nikes??)

Since I knew that I would slow that for the next 2 miles, I knew that my time would not be spectacular so I just tried to enjoy the run.

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 – 2 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 longer than I should have while drinking my water slowly and then you passed the same water stop around mile. I think I walked even longer.

But the walking gave my energy that I needed to finish strong. I was determined to break 29 minutes and I did – 28:56 (28:52 (Garmin time).

I found Holly and got some chocolate milk, fruit & bagels and chatted while waiting for the results.

And no, neither of us won an award.

Still I was nice seeing Holly and I love racing. So it was all good.

Race Splits: (positive, as usual)
mile 1 – 9:08 (8:51 last year)
mile 2 – 9:27
mile 3 – 9:33
.14 – 7:22

race swag

After a 2 hour break, I was ready to continue my long run. Since I run them each weekend in a different locale, I decided on Colonie Town Park and the bike path heading toward Cohoes.

I changed into a tank top (since it had gotten so humid) and into my Hokas and headed into the park.

and then I continued the rest of the run on the bike path.

4 tunnels like this

I already see signs of fall

I had wanted to run to the end but I misjudged the distanced and had to turn around.

view of Cohoes from the trail

No water view for this route but it was still very scenic.

I had planned on 7-8 but I didn’t turn around in time and ended with 8.5 of the slowest miles I have ever run (or actually walk/run). Nothing hurt and I didn’t get blisters. I just had no energy.

Happy Running! How was your weekend?