Half Marathon

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2017 Steel Rail Half Marathon Race Recap

I signed up for this race for several reasons:

  • It was local and I could sleep in my own bed the night before.
  • I would be mostly trained since I ran a half three weeks before this race.
  • It is a flat course.
  • I PR’d on this same course back in October.

Half Marathon Training:

If you read my blog, you know that my training included ZERO long runs but lot’s of races and a vacation in Florida.

Yes, I got some miles on the legs. I ran a slow half marathon (due to the fact that I didn’t train well), ran a 5k instead of my 12 mile long run, and then tapered with a 8 miler. And that’s it.  So be it.

Not what you’d expect for a runner wanting to get a PR.

I was still excited to run the race. I knew that I didn’t deserve to get a PR and I was hoping that I wouldn’t be too disappointed with a mediocre performance.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

I reached out to FB friends who ran the Steel Rail Half Marathon last May and here’s what they said:

  • I loved it. Nice flat, downhill course.
  • The course is great!
  • Loved the course! It’s fast!

I also found some more info by searching online for reviews of the race.

The course is wonderful. It runs point-to-point from Lanesborough to Adams. It starts with two loops around the Berkshire Mall … then goes onto the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail for ten miles. The scenery is lovely. .. you can enjoy views of Mt. Greylock, lakes, and woods. And by the time you’re really hurting at mile ten, the trail starts gently sloping downhill, for real. If you want a half marathon PR, this is the course…

Amenities included easy parking, plenty of porta-potties, a post-race massage tent, food, and beer. The tech race shirt was nice and offered women’s sizing. Prizes ran deep; Kent gave out generous checks for the top three overall winners and the top three masters, plus merchandise from his running store, Berkshire Running Center in downtown Pittsfield, for the top three age group winners… After the ceremony, buses delivered participants back to the start. I’d highly recommend this race…

Here’s the course map:

And the map of the elevation:

downhill at the end…sweet!

No 12 miles of walking the day before this half marathon!!! But I did do a lot of gardening. I decided against driving to Mass to get my bib (as I did in October) and instead spent a relaxing afternoon on the lake..

To celebrate both my birthday and the hubby’s, we went out to dinner. Carb loading to the max but no alcohol this time!

dinner view

I hardly ever get much sleep the night before a big race. And this night, it was no different.

Race Day:

So 6:30 am came early on Sunday morning. Wouldn’t it be nice to sleep in on a weekend??

The race was scheduled to start at 9:30 am. I was happy about the late start except for the fact that it was May not October and the temps could have been really warm.


Luckily the 90 degree temps left for awhile. And it was actually pretty chilly. I wore my usual half marathon outfit of a tank and skirt. Just added my DIY sleeves to discard when I warmed up.

According to Google, it should have taken about 1h 15 to get there.  So I left my house at 7:15 am.

My GPS took me on the back roads and it was a really gorgeous ride.

I got there plenty early. The race started in the parking lot of the Berkshire Shopping Mall.  Easy to get to and lots of parking.

gender-specific race shirt 🙂

I picked up by bib and race shirt. The bib had two timing chips that you have to attach with safety pins to your shorts or front of your shirt.  Then you return them at the end of the race. Weird, right?

Since the race ended in Adams, MA, they gave you a bag to check stuff which would be available at the finish line.  Very convenient. I packed flip flops, a dry shirt and a jacket in it.

It was quite chilly – about 40 degrees colder than Thursday and cloudy. I shivered but knew that I would warm up once I started running. I stayed in my car for a while but eventually got out to mingle with the other runners. I didn’t see anyone that I knew but instantly made some new friends.  The runners were so friendly.

Since I had eaten breakfast three hours ago, I was hungry so ate a GU before the start.

Soon it was time to head to the start line.

The race is a blur as usual but here’s how I remember it:

Miles 1-3:

9:02, 9:17, 9:23

Image result for steel rail half

The starting line was in the parking lot. I wasn’t sure if there were chip timing or gun timing. And I didn’t start as close to the front as I usually do, though.

For the first two miles, you ran around the parking lot. Like any race, the first mile/mile-and-a-half, was a big congested.  This was the hilliest part of the course (and it wasn’t that hilly.)

This also was the only part of the course where you could somewhat attempt to run tangents (Of course, I did.)

pic from FB

As usual, I got caught up in the excitement and when I glanced down at my Garmin, I saw that I was running 8:XX pace during the first mile. I quickly slowed down.  I knew that continuing to run that pace would be deadly.

I left on my DIY warm warmers but rolled them down but by the second time around, I tossed them (by the start line but forgot to pick them up after the race, anyway.)

Anita Louise Photography

pic from the web site

After mile 2, we left the parking lot and entered the trail.

A little while after we entered the trail, there was the first water stop.  I always stop at ALL water stops during a half marathon and even though I wasn’t warm or thirsty, I did so during this race, as well.

The trail was beautiful.  River at first on the right side, then also a lake on the left side.  Then eventually, the river was on the left side. I wish I could have gotten out my phone from my race belt more easily so I could have taken some photos.

pic from the website

I was still running at a decent pace and was in the zone. Of course, that pesky foot problem existed the whole time. (My bunion causes my big toe on my left foot to overlap the next toe causing toe pain and often sorenes on the bottom of my foot…ouch!!!)

Early on, a runner in pink asked me what my pace would be since she hadn’t run a half in many years.  I replied that I hoped that it would be around 10. To which she replied “I’ll try to keep you in my sight.”

She looked very fit and I was slightly ahead of her at various times during the race but at the water stops when I walked, she got way ahead.  Still it was nice to have someone to chat with so I tried to keep her pink shirt in my sights.

Miles 4-6:

9:55, 9:28, 9:30

As usual, after the first few miles, I started slowing  a little.  But I was still running at a decent pace (for me.)

There another water stop at almost mile 4 and I walked for a while. (I didn’t really need to but I am so used to walking when there is water.) I debated about eating a Gu but decided that I didn’t need it yet.

pic from Andrea’s FB)

We continued on the same trail and I just focused on the scenery.

The temperature was perfect for running.  Even a little chilly when we were running along the lake and could feel the cool breeze.

Then all of a sudden, maybe at almost mile 6, at another water stop, I realized that I was ahead of my time from the Ramblefest. Should I start thinking PR?

Nah!  Anything can and usually does happen during the second half of a half marathon.

So I walked and ate a GU.  (I wish I could eat them faster but I never can.)

Then it happened again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My Garmin reset to zero!!! (It happened during my last 2 marathons.  There’s nothing to change in the settings!?)

So no idea of my current time. No idea of my current pace!! Pissed me off………..

Miles 7-9:

10:19, 9:41, 10:06

What could I do?  Nothing.

So I just continued piggy backing with the runner in pink and enjoying the FLAT course.

pic from Andrea’s FB

There was another water stop around mile 8 and I walked through that one too.  Again, I was amazed at how fresh my legs still felt.

I wasn’t sure what my average pace was. However, I knew that I was running slower than the first half but not too slowly. Since I don’t run by pace, it didn’t matter.  I had NO IDEA how much time had elapsed in the race. That would be how I would determine my finish time and if I were on track for a PR.

Such is life…

Miles 10-12

9:54, 10:42, 9:13

pic from Andrea’s FB

A little past mile 9, there was the next to last water stop.  I walked through it and ate my second GU.  I forgot to buy more so I was stuck with Chocolate and I instantly got stomach cramps…UGH!!

I was determined to muscle through them.  At least, the made me forget about my sore foot.

At mile 10 along the side of the road, I spotted Andrea, my roommate from the Philly Love Run.  We hugged. It was a great boost when I needed it.

She told that I looked strong and at that point, I decided that I wanted that PR…

Mile 13- 13.2:

8:47, ?? (My Garmin recorded the course as long.)

So I ran faster and caught up to the runner in pink and even passed her.

Believe it or not, my Garmin reset itself to zero again… it didn’t really matter since I hadn’t used it since mile 6.

Finally we left the trail. The race ended with a series of 2 left hand turns. We turned left onto Hoosac St. and left onto Depot St. and the finish line was on Depot St. in front of the Adams Visitor Center parking lot.

It seemed to take forever….

I wasn’t sure that I was going to PR.

But anyway as I made the last turn, I gave it everything I had.

I crossed under 2:07 and IT WAS A PR!!!!!!!!!!! (My previous PR was 2:08:59 in October on this same course.)

Gun Time: 2:06:52 Chip Time: 2:06:47

A 2 minute 12 second PR!!! Almost 14 minutes faster than my last half marathon! I’ll take it.

I was on cloud nine.  A PR is great but one that you didn’t plan for is even better.  It was the first half marathon where  I didn’t struggle to complete it. My legs never felt tired. In fact, mile 13 was my fastest mile.  I’m not sure exactly why but I think at my age, the 4 rest days and the long taper (5ks rather than long runs) helped.

Post Race:

I got my medal, some water, a bagel, and a banana. Then I headed to get my free beer.

I’m not really a big beer drinker but this tasted good

With our food ticket, we could get anything that cost $3 for free. Believe it or not, we could have had a hamburger, chili, hot dog, sausage, fried dough but I chose a hot dog. And it was yummy!

I wandered around waiting for the results.

They gave out cash and pottery for top awards and a coffee tumbler for AG awards.

I also bumped into a former student of mine and her mom.  She won the Masters.

Congrats Michele! You are speedy!

I came in 5th or 6th in my AG, I think.

So I headed toward the buses. On the bus back to the mall, I chatted with some runners who are planning to run Wine Glass. We hoped to meet again.

My last stop before heading home was Target to do some shopping and get my post-race Starbucks.  Coincidentally, in Target, I ran into a law professor whom I used to work with. She had also run the race.

Additional Race Reflections:

The Good:

  • Close enough to be able to sleep in my own bed the night before.
  • Organized packet pick-up.
  • Lots of parking and easy to locate.
  • Real bathrooms after the race.
  • Enthusiastic volunteers and crowd support.
  • Scenic course especially with the foliage and water views.
  • Flat course!!
  • No major injuries. (just the usual foot pain and some stomach cramps)
  • Gender-specific shirts
  • Decent selection of refreshments (free beer & $3 food coupon)
  • The post race music, massages and food stands were nice
  • PRed!! Woot! Woot!

The Bad:

  • The two laps around the parking lot were boring. (It did save the expense of closing roads to make up the 13.1 miles)
  • The late start for a May race.
  • No professional race photos (just a few on the newspaper website and on FB)

The Ugly:

  • Nothing really.

It was a great race. I loved it! I would have enjoyed it even if I didn’t get a PR!  But that made it just sweeter.

one last look at my PR medal

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes. Yes. I don’t usually repeat half marathons but if I did, I would run this one again.

Final Stats:

Next Up:

Oct 1 – Wine Glass Half Marathon in Corning, NY. (or possibly the Maple Leaf Half in VT on Sept. 9.)

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 with Susie and Rachel and Debbie and Lora for the Running Coaches’ Corner

Happy Running! Do you have a favorite Half Marathon? Do you train to PR? Or does it happen by surprise?

 

 

 

 

 

 

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TOLT: Half Marathons. What else?

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

thinking out loud

Here’s what I’m thinking about today:

My Last Half Marathon.

If you read my race post, you know that it was a difficult race for me.  Some things were out of my control but as I prepare for my next one, I am also thinking about things I can control.

Things you cannot control:

  • Weather – temperature, wind, humidity, etc.
  • Course – hills, loops, etc.
  • Injuries – unforeseen
  • Porta Potty stops

Things you can control:

  • Clothing – do not wear new items
  • Training – doing the work (drills, long runs, etc.)
  • Food – before and during
  • Pacing (don’t go out too fast)

Things you could control but can’t:

  • Clothing – when you have to wear a new item (for many reasons)
  • Training – when work, family, illness, vacation interrupts your training
  • Food – when you cannot eat what you want to eat (for whatever reason)
  • Pacing – when you run with a slower friend or with an injury or lack of training

The important point to remember and I have to remind myself of this often is that even if things go wrong and you don’t have the race that you want for a variety of reasons (things that you can or cannot control), you still can enjoy the experience and be proud of what you’ve accomplished.

My Next Half Marathon.

I’d love to say that I learned from all my recent pre-race snafus. But not quite.  I think I have the outfit and pre-race meal under control.  We’ll see about the weather.  And the course is pretty flat.

Image result for steel rail half

mostly on the bike path

But my training is even worse.  I missed my 12 mile run while on vacation in Florida. I ran a rushed 5k and spent the rest of the day like this: driving to Cape Haze, lunch on the river, driving to Fort Myers, visiting the Ford & Edison Winter Estates, dinner & drinks during sunset at the Ritz back in Naples.

And I don’t regret it.

The next weekend, I ran a special 5K and skipped the extra miles due to the rain. Then spent the afternoon with my mentee and her sons.

So what could have maybe been a half marathon PR most likely will not be. (Remember this same course was my half PR back in October.)

2:08:59 – PR!!!!!

Again.  Finishing=Winning.  That is my goal.

I am not that runner who puts in the work.  I am that runner who has a non-running life that often takes precedence. C’est la vie!

love my friends

 

and the hubs too

Happy Running! What’s going in your life?  Please share.  Are you serious about your half marathon times?

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Running Update: 5.8.17-5.14.17

ru

Last Week:

  • Monday – Another day in paradise.  3 mile run followed by a tennis lesson then doubles play.  Then off to the beach.  Ended the day with dinner out ❤

Lino is our cute instructor

  • Tuesday – It was my birthday but the day was not too much different than the previous day.  I did all my favorite things: running, tennis, reading & Scrabble on the beach, dinner, drinks, dessert with a sunset view.  Awesomeness!

oops – 6.4K not miles (not enough time)

at Vanderbilt Beach

dinner at the Turtle Club

  • Wednesday – Last day of vacation.  I packed, had a tennis lesson but instead of playing tennis, I went to a Wildlife Sanctuary.  We had a nice 2.5 mile walk but because of the drought, we only saw an alligator and no birds (no water in the lakes).  We had our last Florida meal out and headed for the airport.

Corkscrew Nature Sanctuary

  • Thursday – Back to reality – cooler temps and WORK! Ugh! The highlight on my day was getting to run with Alyssa and we chose to run in the park to view the tulips.  (Rain is predicted for the Tulip Fest this weekend.)

  • Friday – Rest day but did squeeze in a trip to the gym before mah jongg.

empty on a Friday after work??

  • Saturday – Rain was predicted so I wasn’t looking forward to this 5k race. But it is an important cause (memorial to a former STEM runner) so I was planning on going no matter what. And it poured!!!

27:26 – 1st in my AG

I had hoped to run 7 more miles after the race but I was too wet so I bailed on my long run. Instead I went to the movies (Boss Baby) and dinner (milkshakes and burgers at Johnny Rockets) with my mentee and her sons.

my favorite super heroes

  • Sunday – The forecast was for rain so I didn’t sign up for a race. But it never rained. So instead I celebrated Mother’s Day with a run on the unpaved rail trail followed by a big dinner at my MIL’s.

23 miles done with 5 runs and 2 rest days

This Week:

  • Monday – FRW Challenge (3-4 miles)
  • Tuesday – rest, work travel (to Buffalo)
  • Wednesday – rest, out of town work and travel home
  • Thursday – Corporate Challenge race (3.5 miles)
  • Friday – rest, hair appt, mah Jong
  • Saturday – rest
  • Sunday – Steel Rail 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.

http://hohoruns.blogspot.com

Happy Running! How is your running going?

runner-sig

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Shape Women’s Half Marathon Race Recap

Image result for shape women's half marathon

I had always wanted to run a half marathon in NYC.  Every year, I enter the lottery for the NYC Half but so far, I have not gotten in.  So my running friend, Alyssa suggested that we instead run the Shape Women’s Half Marathon. I don’t like loops and this race has two plus I didn’t want to limit my running to just Central Park. But I gave in and signed up.

We had planned to share a hotel room and spend the weekend together. Then several months ago, Alyssa found out that she couldn’t go that weekend.  Luckily, I found two other runners (Sue and Ginny)who nicely agreed to letting me crash in their hotel room.

Half Marathon Training

If you read my blog, you know that my training included ZERO long runs but lot’s of races.

Yes, I got miles on the legs but for the first time, I didn’t get my 12 miler done and the longest continuous run was 6 miles.

I was still excited to run the race but I was not expecting to have a fast time and was hoping that it wouldn’t be too painful.

I had only heard good things about the race so I tried to be optimistic about running two loops of the park and about the ginormous hills.

The Shape Half Marathon is billed as “one of the largest women’s-only half-marathons in the country.” Amy Robach, News Anchor of ABC News’ “Good Morning America” was scheduled to host and participate in this year’s race. She was supposed to split the 13.1-mile course with Sara Haines, Co-Host of “The View” and ABC Correspondent. (I usually watch the Today show on NBC.  NBC’s Natalie Morales hosted last year and ran the whole thing.)

According to the website, the race started on West Drive at 63rd Street, and then looped counterclockwise twice around the Park and ended around 72nd.

This was the course:

And this is the elevation map:

yikes!!

Hills or no hills, I planned to enjoy the views and scenery in Central Park and drag myself to the finish line.  Walking up Cat and Harlem Hills would probably happen.  I was ok with it.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations

Sue, Ginny and I debated about how to get to NYC, –  bus, drive/MetroNorth or Amtrak.

Since it was cheaper, Sue wanted to drive 1 1/2 hours and then take MetroNorth right to our hotel.  At the last minute, Ginny decided not to come since she was injured and could not run the race.  So it was just Sue and I.  She picked me up at 7 am and we drove to Beacon (was supposed to be Poughkeepsie but we missed the exit).  From there, we took the MetroNorth train to 125th St., Harlem where Sue had booked a hotel room.

hanging with my Starbucks & Fredrick Douglas in Harlem wearing my Crocs

We finally arrived around 11 am in NYC and had to walk almost a mile to our hotel.  We left off our bags there since our room wasn’t ready and decided to walk to packet pick-up. It was such a beautiful day so I thought why not? (I stupidly changed from my sandals to my Crocs flip flops because they are usually so comfortable.)

Remember our hotel was located on 124th St and packet pick up was on 57th street. That was about 5 miles and about half way, my heels were screaming.  Who wears flip flops to walk around Manhattan?  This idiot!

just love some the buildings on Central Park West

When we arrived at Columbus Circle (59th St), I begged to go to a running store to buy some shoes.  Best decision ever.  They gave out free delicious cookies and mimosas plus everything was 15%.  But even better was that the new version of my running shoes (Nike Zoom Vomero 12s) fit just like the 10s that I love.  My feet were happy.  (Sort of.  The damage to my heels was already done unfortunately).

Next stop was lunch at Whole Foods.  I would have carb loaded but Sue had a salad so I felt guilty and had one too.

Finally we arrived at the expo which wasn’t really an expo.  We just got our shirts and bibs and snapped a picture.

with my new running shoes…

You’d think that we had done enough walking but no, we decided to walk back to the hotel but through park rather than on Central Park West.

notice the sign!

At least, I was wearing better shoes for walking and the weather was gorgeous.  We were hoping that it would not be 80 degrees the next day for our race.

Finally we arrived back at the hotel to check in and only had a little time to relax since we had planned to meet Sue’s running friend Maureen and Maureen’s two daughters for dinner.

And no we didn’t walk to the restaurant.  We took the subway to Columbus Circle.  Well, it turned out that the restaurant was on Columbus Ave.  We quickly called an Uber and still arrived in plenty of time.

The restaurant was Italian (Osteria Cotta) and recommended by Maureen’s daughter who lives in Manhattan.  And it didn’t disappoint.  The food was amazing as well as the wine.  (I normally don’t drink the night before a race but I just got into the spirit.)  It was such a fun evening.  Of course, we talked about the race since all 5 of us women were running it.

After dinner we went out for an amazing dessert – cereal milk at Momofuku Milk Bar.

this was HALF of a small dish

No more walking for me.  We took the subway back to the hotel.  Over 11 miles walked for the day!  The day before our half marathon!!!

So we laid out our clothes and tried to get some shut eye.

everything had already gone wrong so why not wear a new top and new shoes??

I hardly ever get much sleep the night before a big race.  And that night, it was no different except that in the middle of night, I started to get a painful sore throat and was feeling feverish.  Yes, I was getting sick.  Ugh!

Race Day

So 5:30 am came early on Sunday morning. I felt like crap but it was race day.  And inspite of my sore throat and heels that were painful to walk on, I was excited to run. I brought my breakfast from home (oatmeal) so I was content.

We grabbed a Uber to the race start (64th St.) and got there around 7 am.  The race was not scheduled to begin until 8 am so we had plenty of time to hang out. It was quite chilly – about 30 degrees colder than Saturday.  I shivered but knew that I would warm up once I started running.

my DIY sleeves at least kept me a little warm

Soon it was time to head to the start to line up. I was supposed to start in Corral I and Sue in Corral L but Maureen and her daughters asked us to meet them in Corral H so we waited for them there.  They apparently arrived at the last minute and we never connected before the race.

aren’t they are cute family?

The race is a blur as usual but here’s how I remember it:

Miles 1-3:

9:51, 9:48, 9:42

Like any race, the first mile/mile-and-a-half, was a big congested. My heels were hurting but I was still able to run at a decent pace. It didn’t take me long to get warm and roll down my sleeves.  The hills were rolling but they didn’t seem too bad. The weather was perfect.  When the sun came out, I was glad that there seemed to be water stops at every mile.  I stopped and walked at each one as per my plan.  During this stretch, I caught up to Maureen and her daughters.  We ran together for a while.  They said that they were taking it easy but I knew that their slow pace would in no time be too fast for me. So at the second water stop, I waved good-bye and said that I’d meet them at after party by the band shell.

So the first few miles were wonderful. All the trees had blossomed and it was just a picture-perfect day. I started looking around at all the women around me and felt so inspired. This is an all women’s race which makes it special. There were tutus and bright colors and women cheering on other women. It was just so upbeat and empowering!

Miles 4-6:

10:30, 11:33, 10:15

As usual, after the first few miles, I started slowing down. The first big challenge, Harlem Hill was no joke – about a half mile of steepness. All the volunteers along the hill were great, though, cheering us on and telling us we were almost at the top (I appreciated their lies LOL). It was nice to know that once I reached the top of the hill, the hardest part of the course was over. Until, of course, I had to conquer it again on the second lap.

During this stretch, a runner trying to clip the tangent, tripped another runner in front of me.  She went down hard and almost took me down.  But I stayed upright. I helped her up. She was scraped up but ok to continue running. I took advantage of this long break to have my first GU.  (Chocolate which is not what I  wanted.  What happened to salted caramel?? And my faux pas keep coming… it made me feel sick.)

I finally removed (with lots of difficulty) my sleeves and continued to pick up my skirt which was always falling down.  At least, I was half done.  One more loop to go…

Miles 7-9:

10:25, 10:52, 10:46

At this point in the race, my legs told me that I should have trained better.  They were tired.  But my heels stopped hurting and the balls of my feet ached especially the the left one that always seems to bother me. (It’s bunion related.) I think I was putting more pressure there to avoid the heel pain.

So I was now obviously starting the second loop of the course. Let me tell you, I noticed a lot of smaller hills that I did NOT notice the first time around. There were the same big hills as the first loop and I did the same – run, walk, run walk. The downhills were great but there always seemed to be another hill…the hills would not stop!!

Also I wore my new Garmin that I hadn’t worn since my last half marathon.  And the same thing happened.  It restarted at around mile 6 so it was no use.  I knew roughly where I was since there were clocks at 5k, 10k, 15k markers and I knew I was running at a slow pace – at what pace, I had no idea.  Good thing, this wasn’t a PR attempt. (Yes, I know that I should have tested it out before the race..)

Miles 10-12

11:40, 11:44, 11:04

Slow, slow, and even slower. I probably would  have run faster if I actually knew my pace.

I took one more Gu (chocolate peanut butter)…yuck!  Now I had a stomach ache for the rest of the race.  (More like a side stitch.)  But at least I never got my usual late mile back ache (Thanks Nike!)

After the second time up Harlem Hill, I told myself that it was almost over and then it was only 3 miles to the finish.  But it was the longest 3 miles ever and I walked more than I usually do in a half marathon. And not just the water stops.  Mile 11 felt 5 miles long (obviously, it was only 1 mile long). I just kept waiting for the 12-mile marker and it just wouldn’t come. I kept my spirits up by high-fiving every little kid that reached out on the sidelines. Thanks for the energy, kiddos!  The crowd support for the race was great.

Mile 13- 13.2:

11:01, ??

Finally, I was turning the corner to the last mile leg of the race and then the finish line was in sight.  I saw the clock in the distance and sprinted as fast as I could. I crossed around 2:23:xx which turned out to be 2:20:49 chip time. Not the time I am capable of but considering everything working against me, it was a solid effort and I was pleased.

I got my medal and my heat sheet. I didn’t really need a heat sheet because it was so nice out but took it as a souvenir and headed to find friends and food.

Post Race:

At the food area, there wasn’t much that interested me. I took a bagel and headed toward the band shell to wait for Sue and find Maureen and her daughters.

There were some food samples and a band playing.  I had some grapefruit juice and hung out as they announced the awards.  Deena Kastor won again with a 1:16:xx time.  Amazing!!

I kept texting Sue so we could meet up and to back to the hotel.  Well, it turned out that she didn’t bring her phone.  Duh?

But I did connect with one of the former STEM participants who had run the race. So happy to see her!!

Eventually, I left and took the subway solo back to the hotel.

After a long, hot shower, Sue and I went out for a delicious brunch before we took that long walk to the train station and headed back home..

yummy!!!

Additional race reflections:

The Good:

  • Organized packet pick-up.
  • Lots of porta potties at the start and throughout the course
  • Beautiful course through scenic Central Park
  • Lots of water stops (almost every mile) and all had Gatorade.
  • The runners and their contagious excitement.
  • Great crowd support along the course.
  • No major injuries (just the feet!)
  • Perfect weather.
  • Love my new running shoes.

The Bad:

  • Two Loops – just not a fan
  • The Hills.
  • No expo.
  • My skirt kept falling down.
  • My training was lacking.

The Ugly:

  • Cat and Harlem Hills and having to run up them TWICE

Would I recommend this race?

Yes, definitely.

Overall, I really loved this race. The course was beautiful yet challenging. The day was beautiful. The energy of the volunteers and all the women running was spectacular.

Final Stats:

out of 6,983 finishers

Next Up:

May 21 – Steel Rail Half Marathon in Adams, MA

So no break in my training,  This one will be flat and on the same course as the Ramblefest Half Marathon that I ran in October. I am looking forward to it.  A nice (but not too warm) day would be welcomed.

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

Happy Running! Do you have a favorite Half Marathon? Have you ever run the More/Shape Half?


 

 

 

 

 

 

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Running Update: 4.24.17-4.30.17

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Last Week:

  • Monday – Our good weather continued for one more day. It was even warmer than Sunday. Tonight was week 5 of the Freihofer Challenge Group run and the plan called for 10 min. warm-up, 4-6 800m sprints at 5k pace, 400m recovery after each, cool down. The day after a 5k race plus 6 additional miles?  Could I do it?  Patrick allowed me to back off and do them at 10k pace.  I actually felt stronger after each one. My first and last were my fastest at 4:10. (He let us stop after 4 repeats. 🙂 )

4 tough miles

  • Tuesday – A nasty rainy day. My run got replaced by (indoor) tennis. It was fun since I hadn’t played in weeks and of course, we went out to dinner afterwards.
  • Wednesday – Another dreary day but the rain stopped by afternoon and it warmed right up. I managed to squeeze in a quick sweaty run before meeting my tennis friends for our monthly dinner out. (Unfortunately I had to skip my STEM volunteering.)

The first tulips I’ve seen

  • Thursday – Today Alyssa and I decided to run on the Corning Bike Path since we hadn’t been there in ages. As usual it was a good one.

  • Friday – I decided to stop at the gym then stay home and pack for my weekend in NYC. (I even skipped mah jongg 😦 )
  • Saturday – I headed to NYC with fellow runner Sue. I only knew her a little but we got along great. (Runners always seem to.) After leaving our bags at our hotel, we headed to the expo to get our race packets, had lunch and then went back to our hotel to check into our room. Yes, we walked over 11 miles the day before our race on a very warm day. We carbloaded at a nice Italian restaurant with another local runner and her daughters. Eventually we returned to the hotel to try to get some sleep before rising early the next day.

  • Sunday – Today I ran the Women’s Shape Half Marathon in Central Park, NYC. It was tough. Maybe my toughest half. Those hills are no joke but I finished and had a fun day.

poor training, sore throat, aching feet, stomach cramp – nevertheless, she persisted!!

24. 6 miles done with 4 runs and 3 rest days

This Week:

  • Monday – FRW Training Group Run (3-4 miles)
  • Tuesday – 3 miles, tennis
  • Wednesday – rest, fly to Florida
  • Thursday – Sunday – running, tennis, hanging out at the beach, dinner out and lots of fun.

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

http://hohoruns.blogspot.com

Happy Running! How is your running going?

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TOLT: It’s Half Time, Vacation Time, etc.

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

thinking out loud

Here’s what I’m thinking about today:

  • Half Time:

And I’m not talking about football. This weekend I am heading to NYC to run the Shape Women’s Half Marathon.

Image result for shape women's half marathon

I am, of course, weather stalking:

Glad the race isn’t Sat…

My preference would be weather like this past weekend – sunny and cool but as long as it doesn’t rain, I’ll be happy.

What to wear is pretty easy since I always wear a SkirtSports skirt and tank. I’m going purple for this race.

The logistics and weekend events are still up in the air and it’s Thursday.  I may be going and staying in a hotel room with two other women or maybe only one.  One is injured and can’t decide if she wants to walk or stay home.  We may be driving 1 1/2hrs and taking the train to the city or taking the train from Albany and taking the bus back.  I’m thinking the first option since it is cheaper.

We are staying in a hotel in Harlem on 124th St.  Tentative plans are drop off bags, bib pick up (57th), hotel check in, new Whitney museum (13th St) and dinner.  We are having dinner with another local runner.  There’s another STEM graduate who running the race.  I need to try to plan a meet-up with her as well as another blogger.

Race-cations are always exciting even if they are short.

  • Freihofer Run for Women Training Challenge:

Image result for freihofer's run training challenge

This is the 7th year of this program and my third year participating. I signed up for the Advanced group again and we already had 6 weeks of training.  We have a great group of new and returning runners. I only go on Mondays but I actually like the speed drills this year.  They seem to be less painful than previous years (or maybe I’m just more relaxed and not trying to be the fastest.)

Patrick, who is young and cute, is still one of our coaches. He is constantly scolding me for not running as fast as he thinks I am able and mostly for racing every weekend.  However, I am able to ask him questions and he gives me useful advice (that I may or may not follow LOL).

  • Upcoming Florida Vacation:

With work and this weekend in NYC, I’m not ready.  We leave on a 6am flight next Wednesday.  I’m away this weekend, have my running group Monday evening and tennis Tuesday evening.  Yikes! When do I pack for 8 days away??

But looking forward to sunsets and fun times on the tennis courts and soaking up the sun on the beach.

If you know me, you know that although there are very few races this time of year in Florida, since we are there 2 weeks earlier than usual, I thought I’d take a look.

May 7 – 7:30 am

I found one – two loops around Old Naples.  We have tickets for a show the night before so I don’t know if I can talk someone with a car into getting up early to drive me.  We’ll see.

Happy Running! What’s new with you today? Tell me in the comments.

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TOTR: April Report Card

Image result for bye april
So spring finally did arrive. Although it did waver back and forth throughout most of the month.

Here’s how April turned out:

Weekday Runs:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Long Runs:

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

Total Mileage:

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

April Miles

Races:

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

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

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

Cross Training:

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

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

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

Other News:

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

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

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

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

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

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

And it’s my BIRTHDAY month!! (May 9)

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

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

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

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

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

Deb Runs

No monthly goals.

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

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

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

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

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

What do you think?

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

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Treasure Coast Half Marathon Recap

Image result for treasure coast half

Another race-cation to visit friends and run a race.  Unfortunately, this one was shorter than I would have liked but better than nothing.

I chose this race because of the friends that live nearby.

Plus a college roommate and another friend from home wanted to accompany me so we could go see a Mets spring training game together.
Image result for 2017 mets spring training

Mets vs Cardinals in Jupiter – March 5

Oh yeah, there was an expo and a race squeezed into this long weekend.

Half Marathon Training

If you read my blog, you know that my training didn’t go as planned.  It snowed a few times and I got the flu.

For the first time, I didn’t get all my long runs in and I even skipped some weekday training miles.

I was still excited to run the race but I was not expecting to have a fast time and was hoping that it wouldn’t be too painful.

I planned to enjoy the views and scenery and drag myself to the finish line.  Walking a lot would probably happen.  I was ok with it.

Check out the video from last year’s race and you’ll see why I wanted to run this race:

https://vimeo.com/158472680

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations

Both Fran and I arrived on Friday (on separate flights).  I rented a car and we drove to Delray Beach where we had a very busy day with our friend, Fonda-  lunch, shopping and strolling, bird watching (at Green Cay) and walking, visiting art galleries, strolling and dinner before I dropped Fran off at a hotel and I proceeded to Fonda’s where I spent the night.

lot’s of interesting birds

On Saturday before driving an hour up to Hutchinson Island to the race expo, I walked around the beautiful golf course where Fonda lives.

there were so many swans in the lakes – they are so beautiful

Then Fonda and I went to Wakodahatchee nature preserve. I’ve been there before but enjoyed it as much as the first time. We saw alligators, iguanas, and all sorts of birds. My favorite part was that the birds were nesting. We even got to see some baby birds who had just hatched.

Then I had got to have lunch with my college roommate and a friend with whom I used to teach. Everyone got along great so in addition to the water view, the food, we had an incredibly fun time.

The expo was held at the Mariott. There was no parking at the hotel but instead of the shuttle, I parked in a lot across the street. It wasn’t very impressive so I just picked up my shirt and bib and we left.

I didn’t know anyone who had run this race nor could I find any reviews.

But according to the website and folks at the expo, runners start the Treasure Coast Half Marathon at Memorial Park in downtown Stuart before running west, turning on to the Boardwalk Run, and continuing east toward Sewall’s Point. After making a loop around Sewall’s Point and traversing the bridge across St. Lucie River, the finish line is just a few miles away, passing several residential streets before crossing the finish line.

Here is the map:

Half route Overview 12-31-2014 titled with elevation

Interactive Route Map – Half Marathon – bit.ly/TCMhalfRoute2015

Florida is supposed to be flat, right?  Does this look flat to you?

tchm

Spoiler alert: it was pretty flat except for the bridge…

After the expo on Hutchinson Island, we stopped by Fran’s hotel so she could check in and then drove to Georgette and her husband’s in Hobe Sound to have dinner. I would be staying with them for the next two nights.

The dinner was delicious but NOT was I would normally eat the night before a race We had salad, spicy chicken, rice and beans, cake and ice cream.  I prefer pizza or pasta but what can you do when you friend wants to cook dinner for you.  (Spoiler alert: maybe not the best choice for a meal the night before a race.)

We watched some TV before finally Georgette offered to drive Fran back to her hotel so I could get to bed.

And yes, if it seems like this vacation was already jam packed, it was. But that’s how I roll.

Race Day

So 4 am came early on Sunday morning. I brought my breakfast from home (oatmeal and tea) so I was content.

I got dressed in my half marathon uniform (skirt, tank, cap, compression socks),  grabbed some GU and my new Garmin.

Yes, my 205 died (or at least only lasts for a few miles) so I bought a cheap Garmin.  Of course, it came the day before I left and I didn’t have time to try it or even figure out how to use it. (Spoiler alert: should have tried to use before the race.)

I left around 4:45 am and I had no problems finding the race location which was less than a half hour from where I was staying.  I even found a parking spot on the street just a few blocks from the start.

It was pretty early so I just walked around the park. I met so many friendly runners who were eager to chat about racing.  (I met some runners who told me Wineglass which I am running in October is their favorite all-time race!!)

those DIY arm sleeves came off right away.

There were bathrooms in addition to port-a-potties which is always a plus and the lines were not long yet.

Eventually I checked my bag with a jacket for later (that I didn’t need) and my car keys. It was starting to get warm – probably close to 70 by start time. But the wind was crazy bad. Everyone was worried about how hard it would to run in. But there was nothing we could do about it. The only good thing about the wind and that it kept you cool.

Soon it was time to head to the start to line up. There were about 1200 runners total for both the half and the full marathon.  There were pacers for both distances so I lined up between 2:15 and 2:30.

The race is a blur as usual but here’s how I remember it:

Miles 1-4:

9:26, 9:40, 10:06, 9:59

The race started through downtown, onto Ocean Blvd (a main street) and made a loop so that we passed through the start again around mile 2. I tried to run conservatively and keep my pace close to 10. It’s wasn’t hard since we were running into the wind at the the beginning (and most of the race.) Plus I started h aving stomach cramps.  UGH! Around mile 2.5, there was the first water stop and I took advantage and did some walking. I considered stopping to use the port-a-potty but my stomach felt better though not great. I was getting thirsty too and was glad that the water stops got more frequent as the race went on. We ran through downtown again and turned onto the boardwalk where we ran along the water. (Gorgeous views except for the water blowing and making it slippery.)

Miles 5-8:

10:20, 11:00, 11:07, 10:47

Another water stop and I decided to also take my first GU.  My stomach was feeling better 🙂 but now my lower back started aching.  It’s always something.  It usually hurts by the end of a half marathon but never this early.  It didn’t affect my running but it was annoying. Around mile 6, we separated from the marathoners and approached the bridge.  Right as I was going to cross the street to run over the bridge, they stopped the runners to let the traffic pass.  Seriously??? It seemed like we stood there for a long time but it probably wasn’t that long but certainly a nuisance.  While I was waiting, I must have hit something on my (new) watch and it stopped displaying the time run and started at zero.  I don’t run by pace.  I like to know how much time has passed so I can gauge at what time I will cross the finish line.  Rats!

I had lost the 2:15 pacer early on so I knew my time was slow and I never saw the 2:30 pacer.  That’s all I could tell until I crossed the finish line.

So we started to run over the bridge which was UPHILL for what seemed like forever.  The wind was the worst here.  Everyone was struggling.  Most runners were walking.  It was hard to move forward but I managed to run, walk, run walk and finally get to the downhill portion. After the bridge, we entered a park and then Sewalle’s Point where there were some beautiful neighborhoods.  There were water views at all times.  My back continued to hurt and of course, as usual, my feet started to hurt.  Both were painful but not as in an injury so I was able to easily run through it.

Ebe746e2-bf80-4e46-9c0c-194b3a1b0a08

from http://www.active.com/stuart-fl/other-endurance/marathon-angel-for-the-marathon-of-the-treasure-coast-2016

Miles 9-12:

10:40, 11:24, 10:48, 11:02

We looped around Sewall’s Point and through the neighborhoods with water views.  There were water stops very frequently now…more than one during each mile.  I walked at each and every one and took another Gu during mile 9 right before we headed back over that huge bridge. Yes, it was still uphill but at least we were not running into the wind.

Miles 10-11 were the worst part of the race.  We were running on a main road with no shade and of course, at this point, the sun came out.  It was warm!!

Eventually we turned off that road and ran through another part of town.  I remember running by a church and the priest was handing out small bottles of water.

Mile 13- 13.14:

10:43, 8:50

We ended the race running through downtown again and crossing the finish line at the park, right where we began.

As I approached the finish line, I finally saw a clock…for the first time since mile 6.  It said 1:18:xx.  Of course I was initially disappointed but after a while, I realized that it wasn’t so bad considering the wind, the pain and my lackluster training.  So I proudly put on my medal and wore it with a smile!

Post Race:

from the website

The atmosphere was so festive.  There were free massages, lots of smoothie samples, a live band, etc.  The refreshments were awesome.  The Boy Scouts were serving pancakes, bacon & sausage as well as oatmeal with apples & raisins.  There was also Starbucks.  I was a happy camper.

There was also a food tent sponsored by the Olive Garden with pasta, meatballs & garlic bread, as well as, one by Moe’s which had burritos. chips, etc. There was free Heineken beer.  What more could you ask for?  (Maybe mimosas but that’s getting greedy!)

It was only 9 am so I settled for the breakfast items and strolled around waiting for the awards.

Happily ran into some Skirt Sports ladies.

The Age Group awards were trophies and it would have been cool to win one.  But I did not.  I was 8th.

Coincidentally, the lady behind me in my AG is the sister-in-law of one of my roommates for my next Half in NYC. I wish I had known at the time that she was there.

So I walked back to my car and headed to Fran’s hotel.  I quickly took a shower and changed my clothes because we had a busy day planned.

I went to my first spring training game – NY Mets vs St Louis Cardinals. Unfortunately the Mets lost 14-10 but we had a great time.

Holly, check out my shoes.

After the game, I changed my clothes again and we went out to dinner with Georgette and her hubby in a cute restaurant on the water.


Additional race reflections:

The Good:

  • Organized packet pick-up.
  • Easy to find parking at the start
  • Real bathrooms before the race.
  • Beautiful course with water views.
  • Varied course – park, town, bridge, boardwalk, neighborhoods
  • Lots of water stops (every mile after mile 5). One even had GU.
  • No major injuries (just the usual foot & lower back issues)
  • Decent crowd support along the course.
  • Friendly atmosphere of this relatively small Florida race
  • Great post race refreshments.
  • Nice medal and great AG awards

The Bad:

  • The Wind. The Wind. The Wind.
  • Having to stop for traffic.
  • Annoying stomach cramps then back ache and painful feet issues.
  • My Garmin (totally my fault in not testing beforehand).

The Ugly:

  • This didn’t affect me but 159 runners (108 half marathoners) were not properly directed at a crucial point early in the race which caused them to miss a portion of the route totaling 8/10 of a mile. This was sad because some of the marathoners might have BQed.
  • Again this didn’t affect me neither but I guess they ran out of food for the marathoners who finished after 3:30.

Would I recommend this race?

Yes, definitely.

Final Stats:

2:18:25 (2:18:10 – Garmin time)
303 out of 625 (female: 170 out of 412

AG 60-64 – 8 out 25

  • Next Up:

April 30 – Shape Women’s Half Marathon.

Image result for shape women's half marathon

So no break in my training,  But again, though this one will be tough since it is two loops of hilly Central Park, I am looking forward to it.  A nice warm (but not too warm) day would be welcomed.

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 lifefor

Today’s topic is: St Patrick’s Day

I am NOT Irish but when I run in St. Patrick’s Day races, I love to dress up in GREEN:

Happy Running! Do you have a favorite Florida Half Marathon? Do you dress up to run St Patrick’s Day-themed races?

 

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 Running Update: 2.27.17-3.5.17 and 3.6.17-3.12.17

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So since I was on vacation last Monday, this is a TWO week update.

Two Weeks Ago:

  • Monday –  my legs were tired but rain was in the forecast for the next few days so I dragged them out for an after work run around campus

it was not a great one but as they say a bad run is better than no run & I listened to another podcast

  • Tuesday – It was supposed to rain but never did but I had scheduled  a rest day anyway. After work, I played tennis and attended  a STEM committee meeting
  • Wednesday -Warm, windy day.  I met Alyssa for a run.  We ran on the rail trail instead of our usual campus loop. It was a great run. Finally!

running with friends is the best!

  • Thursday – Winter temps returned. Snow flurries and insane winds.  I had planned to run at lunch but decided against and then had a hair appt. after work.  So resting for my big race began a day early.
  • Friday – 6 am flight to West Palm Beach.  Arrived, picked up a rental car with my friend Fran. We met Fonda (whom I would be staying with) in Delray Beach. We had a nice lunch, walked around town and then decided to walk around Green Cay to do some bird watching. We went back into town to visit the art gallerys (First Friday event in Delray) and the shops and eventually enjoyed a light dinner. I finally dropped my friend Fran off at her hotel and then drove to Fonda’s to call it a (long) day.

  • Saturday – Started the day off with a walk around the golf course where Fonda lives, then headed to Wakodahatchee for more bird watching. Saw alligators, iguanas and tons of birds nesting. Even saw some newly hatched baby birds. After, I picked up Fran and we had lunch with some old friends in Delray Beach.

After lunch, Fran and I drove an hour to Hutchinson Island so I could pick up my race packet. Then we headed to Hobe Sound where we had dinner with Georgette and her husband (with whom I would be staying for the next two nights). After dinner, Georgette was nice enough to take Fran to her hotel in Stuart so I could hit the hay early.

  • Sunday – Today I ran the Treasure Coast Half Marathon. It was a beautiful course and I enjoyed it even though I felt my lack of training, it was insanely windy, I had stomach cramps the first half, and sore feet and lower back the second half. Yes. I am a crazy runner.

2:18:25 – Half Marathon #24

After the race, I drove to Fran’s hotel so I could shower and change and then off we went to a Mets vs Cardinals spring training game. The Mets lost 14-10 but we still had fun. After the game, we went out to dinner with Georgette and her husband. Another busy LONG day.

20 miles done with 3 runs and 4 rest days

Last Week:

  • Monday –  Georgette and I got up early to take her dog for a walk on the beach.

I am in my “happy place.”

Afterwards, I picked up Fran at her hotel and we drove to Stuart where we had a lovely lunch with an old friend and then we strolled through the shops in town.

Eventually we dropped of the car in West Palm Beach and prepared to fly home.  As usual, it wasn’t without hassles and delays.  I won’t go into details but I didn’t get home until 1 am. 😦

  • Tuesday – I did 2 webinars at work, rented a car and then drove to Liverpool, NY.  A rest day but not a day of “rest.”
  • Wednesday -Trained all day and drove home from Liverpool.  Another day without running and without any “rest.”
  • Thursday –  Grateful to be back home and able to run with Alyssa. It was a great run.  Wish they all could feel this good.

  • Friday – Day 4 of rest from running and an evening with my mah jongg friends.
  • Saturday – I ran the Runnin’ of the Green Race (4 miler).  Winter returned with a vengeance.  It was -9 with the wind chill…BRRRR!!! I have never been so cold.

37:48 – not fast but at least I didn’t get frost bite

I had planned to run some more miles after the race but it was just too cold.

I had a lovely evening catching up with a friend – wine, food, wine, dessert. Just what I needed after a tough week.

  • Sunday – Another rest day (without rest).  Filled the day with unpacking, laundry, cleaning, shopping and lots  of cooking (yes, you heard that right) …all the stuff that doesn’t get done when you are away

10 miles done with 2 runs and 5 rest days

This Week:

  • Monday – 6 miles with Alyssa
  • Tuesday – rest day, work training
  • Wednesday – 3 miles, dinner out with tennis ladies, travel to Liverpool, NY for work
  • Thursday – 6 miles, training, drive home from Liverpool
  • Friday – rest day, 3 miles, mah jongg
  • Saturday – proctor MPRES
  • Sunday – 8 mile run

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

http://hohoruns.blogspot.com


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

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TOLT: Weather, Training, Racing, etc.

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

thinking out loud

Here’s what I’m thinking about today:

WEATHER:

Ok, the weather lately has been crazy!!

Not because I was just in Florida.  In the NE, it has been warm enough to run in a tank top several times.


So look at the forecast for the next few days:

with the wind chill, it’s supposed to be below zero 😦

Last year at this time, it hit 80 degrees!!

RUNNING:

It’s just hard to fit in.  Work will be getting in the way…more and more.  I’m trying not to be a whiner but I’m going to run whenever I can.  I am not that dedicated to get up at crazy hours or run late at night when I am exhausted.  My health and my happiness are more important than running.

So this week, it may only be just once.  And that’s ok.

And if that’s the way it’s going to be, I will re-adjust my expectations for my races.  I love racing and I plan to continue racing even if I don’t have time to train. I know that if I don’t train, my finish times will suffer.  As long as I stay healthy and can run, I’m happy.

Well, of course, I’d be happier if I could do all my runs during the week and improve my times.  But we can’t always do what we want.

This is so much better than being injured, right?

happy to run with my buddy once a week

MY LAST HALF MARATHON:

I didn’t expect to run well.  I didn’t train well.

I expected to love the race and the course and I did!!

I didn’t have an awful finish time but it was slower than the last 5 out 7 of my half marathons.

It was insanely windy but unfortunately it wasn’t only the wind.

My stomach cramped, then my back and feet ached.  No injuries and I am grateful for that.  I didn’t give up and pushed through the pain.  I am proud of how tough I am!

enjoyed meeting other Skirt Sports ambassadors

UP NEXT?

I have a frigid four mile race this Saturday and races almost every weekend.

this same race two years ago.

I am also starting my training for my next half marathon which is in hilly Central Park, NYC on April 30.

Image result for shape women's half marathon
That means that I will need to add extra miles onto my races.  This weekend, I have 7 miles on the schedule.

This is not an optimal way to do your long runs but it makes me happy to race.  Plus, I don’t have PR goals for any of my half marathons.

Happy Running! What’s on your mind today?  How are you dealing with the crazy temps?  How do you cope when life prevents you from running?  Do you do your long runs in-interrupted?