Race-cations have been an annual tradition with my running friends since 2017. We started in Corning, NY and then traveled to Montreal, and Brooklyn, NY. We’ve also rented houses in New Hampshire (2x), Maine, Finger Lakes, Cape Cod and this October, it will be in Lake Placid.

However, this race-cation came about by accident. I was having a beer with a former co-worker and a runner that I recognized was seated at the next table.  She asked me what race I was training for and I replied: “NYC Marathon.”  She said that she wanted to get into the lottery for the NYC Half in March but if she didn’t she was considering the Rock ‘n’ Roll DC Half.  I replied: “Let me know because I’d never run in DC.”

To make a long story short, she didn’t get in and texted me that she (Gail) and two other runners (Val & Ginny) were going to run the DC race and asked if I would want to join them.  I, of course, said: “Sure” without even thinking.

A few weeks later, I mentioned this race to a friend (while volunteering for STEM) and she (Sue) said that her brother and sister lived there and she liked to go.  The more, the merrier I thought. And a local running buddy, Jenn, who had moved to the DC area, said that she planned to run it, as well.

Val, Ginny & Gail planned to take the train to DC & back.  That didn’t appeal to me at all since most of the weekend would be riding in the train. I mentioned this to Sue and she agreed with me and we booked airline tickets to DC.

So I signed up for the Rock ‘n’ Roll DC Half Marathon for several reasons:

• A race-cation.
• “New” friends would be racing with me.
• A New Race.
• A New City
• After the Feb. 15 HM in Florida, I’d be mostly trained already.
• Carpe Diem

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. But I do run shorter distances several times during the work week. My weekday runs are often solo but lately I’ve convinced Deb to join me.

And on the weekends, I try to do my Long Run. Usually most of my miles are with one or more of my running friends.

For this race, however, I felt like I was just on recovery mode from my last half marathon due to the cold temps and winds.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

I may have spent more time thinking and planning meet-ups than training. LOL.

Yes, I wanted to meet Coco for the first time and also see Deborah again as well. as, catch up with local friend Jenn.

Sue and I took an early fight on Friday and arrived without any snafus at DCA around 7:30 am.

We ubered to Georgetown and had breakfast with Coco. It was still early so we walked around the area.

Then we took the metro to the expo, got our bib/shirt and walked to our nearby hotel to check in. Of course, we had to start carb loading so we had pizza for lunch.

What does a runner do the day before a half marathon… walk 12 miles!!

Yup, since the weather forecast was iffy, we decided to see as much as the city as we could fit in.

We ended the day at a Mexican restaurant with my Sue’s nephews. I would have preferred Italian but I didn’t choose the restaurant.

Race Day:

As usual, I didn’t sleep well but had my standard race breakfast of oatmeal and coffee in my hotel room.

It was chilly but looked like it would warm up so I wore my usual race outfit and added a throw away.

We met the other three local runners in the lobby and we all walked to the race start (just following all the other runners…).

With about 15,000 runners, it was crowded but very organized.  We found bag check and I checked a jacket for Sue & I.

Sorry to be a broken record about not having a time goal. But my goal for races these days is to FINISH happy (that is not injured and ready to do another.)

So if I had to guestimate my time, it would have been between 2:30 and 2:45 but hey, it could be in 3 hours if my foot hurt or the hill killed me or I decided to walk it.

Miles 1-3: 

Though I was scheduled to start in corral 12 and Sue in 18, we all squeezed into Corral 15 and started running together.

It took us about 30 minutes to get to the start line.

It was crowded but Sue & I tried to stay with the others and run slow and enjoy the sights. We started on Constitution Ave passing the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial.

Then we ran over the Arlington Memorial Bridge and back along the Potomac.

Miles 3-6:

By mile 3, Sue and I were tiring and decided to let the others go ahead. Water stops were frequent enough and even if I wasn’t thirsty, I always stopped for water.  I had my first Gu around mile 4.

I took off my throw away and was going to toss it but I like it so I just tied it around my waist. My arm sleeves didn’t last long either. And I think I held my gloves in my hands the whole race. The temps was actually perfect. I never felt hot or cold throughout the race.

Sue & I continued together chatting and taking in the scenery.

She often told me to run ahead but I said that I wanted to run the whole race with her.

Miles 6-9:

Around this point, we running along Rock Creek and Potomac Pkwy. I found it hard to run at Sue’s pace so when I got ahead, I just stopped and waited for her at the next water stop.

I realized that since I was walking with Sue, I could for the first time ever take photos during a race.

Around mile 8 came to BIG hill.  I ate another Gu and we walked up it.

We were run/walking with a lot of the same runners.  Many were walking as we were.

Although there was one lady walking that kept walking faster than us.  We read the back of her shirt: 3x & a map of all 50 states.  It turns out that she was on her 3rd round of a half marathon in every state.  We chatted with her asking her about her favorite races.

She walked the whole race (at a pretty fast pace).  I told Sue that I wanted to beat her. LOL. (We did!!)

Miles  9-13.1:

We left Georgetown and passed by Howard University and headed back toward the National Mall….

Around mile 11, I lost Sue. So I just ran the rest of the race by myself.  I felt GREAT!!

It was amazing how much energy you could have at the end of a race if you run slowly (or walk a lot.)

 I ate my last Gu (I never ate any salt chews.)

You knew that you were getting close to the finish line when you saw the Capitol building in the distance.

Eventually we turned and ran toward it.

I tried to run as fast as I could!

Post Race Activities:

As soon as I crossed the finish line, I grabbed my medal and waited for Sue.

I grabbed some snacks but didn’t eat anything since we would be going out to lunch and then headed to bag check to get our jackets.

Our local friends had left since they were cold and my friend Jenn (and her fiancé) were waiting for us on our hotel.

After a quick shower, we enjoyed a delicious lunch with them.

One good thing about taking it slow in a race is that nothing is sore and you still have plenty of energy for the rest of the day’s activities. I think we walked about 10 more miles.

We finally caught up with our local friends for dinner and gelato.

Additional Race Reflections:

It was so fun to be out there and soaking up the racing atmosphere. It was even more fun to run a race with friends.

Of course, initially I may have wanted a faster finish time…

I am competitive but I realized quickly that it was much more important enjoy this time with my friends and also not to be in pain.

I felt great during and after the race.

Positives:

• Part of a 3 day race-cation with friends.
• Well-marked course.
• Easy packet pick-up.
• Tech shirts (gender specific)
• Lots of volunteers and crowd support
• Instant race results
• Nice medal provided to all runners.
• Adequate number of water stops.
• Lots of good music (heard American Pie twice)
• Age group awards
• Free beer and music after.
• Perfect weather
• Friends to share the race experience.
• A varied course…

Negatives:

• That hill in Rock Creek Park
• No pacers (at least I didn’t see any.)
• Disappointing expo.
• Expensive photos.
• Garbage truck blocked the view of the Capitol at the finish.

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. yes. For all the reasons mentioned above.

But truthfully, I probably will not run any more Rock ‘n’ Roll races as they are overpriced IMO and there are many other races in the same city to choose from.

Final Stats:

All in all, I was happy with my results. Yes, it was the slowest half marathon I’ve ever done (by a lot). I think it was slower than my marathon pace.

My expectations have dropped significantly and I ain’t getting any younger.

It was my decision to stay with Sue and I don’t regret it.

And when I checked the age group results:

3rd place!?  They mail you your award. Cool.

Next Up:

Half Marathon #3 of 2025 and #73 lifetime. #6 for this one (but #4 on this course).

Happy Running! Have you run a 2025 big race yet? If so, how did go? Are you planning to run one? Any race-cations planned? Been to DC? Do you like Rock ‘n’ Roll races? Please share.

 

 

 

 

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Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

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and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

 

It seems like I’ve been planning this race forever (since February 2022, I believe).

In fact, I registered for the 2023 race and I was meeting up with fellow blogger Jenny and her hubby.  But several days before the race, I fell and broke my foot.

So I did not run and signed up again in 2024.

I badly sprained my ankle at the end of of 2023 and although I was running again by race day, I was not trained for 13.1 miles and deferred my entry.

I ran a 5k instead that trip.

This year, I did sign up to run the 2025 Publix A1A Fort Lauderdale Half Marathon for these reasons:

• A warmer weather race-cation opportunity
• I had enough miles for a free flight.
• I had already paid $40 to defer and would not have to pay to run it this year.
• It was held on Presidents Day weekend (one less day to take off from work)
• It was advertised as a scenic course with ocean views.
• I had four friends that lived nearby (for the winter.)
• A redo from the sweaty 2021 race and DNS of the 2023 and 2024 races.
• Blogger Jenny (and her hubby) had promised to sign up too.

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan.  I ran my last half marathon in October and then I ran a full marathon in November.

As with all my half marathon training, I do not really care about my week day runs. They were usually an easy 3 miles.

However, I do try to do longer runs on the weekend. Even when not training, I try to run 6-8 miles.

Despite the frigid winter weather in the NE, I did run 2 double digit runs but unfortunately, the 12 miler turned into only 9 miles. I hate when that happens but it is what it is. And my taper 10 miler also was only a 9 miler.

Though I did feel somewhat prepared to run 13.1 miles, my goal for this half marathon was still to just finish and to ENJOY RUNNING A LONG SCENIC RACE!!!

I mean, I trained in temps below freezing and this race was in Florida.  There no way that I’d be acclimated to the warmer temps and humidity and I didn’t want to wind up in a medical tent and spoil the rest of my vacation.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Although the half marathon was scheduled for Sunday morning, I arrived (with no flight drama) in West Palm Beach the Tuesday afternoon before. I rented a car there and spent the next six days staying with two different friends.

I got to hang out with them (and a few others) while visiting the beaches, bird sanctuaries, tennis tournaments and restaurants. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there.

Previously I had picked up my race bib/shirt on Saturday, stayed in a nearby hotel and purchased VIP parking for race day.

With Jenny (not her hubby who hurt his foot) running the race as well and that she lives in the town where I was staying, I was able to catch a ride with her. She even picked up my shirt

and bib the day before.

They had also changed the course and so there would be a shuttle bus because the start and finish were in now different locations.

looks flat enough…

Race Day:

I got up at an ungodly hour and had my oatmeal and coffee that I had brought from home with me.

They had recommended that you arrive by 4:30 am and the race started at 5:50 am.

I had decided to buy the VIP parking pass so that hopefully things would be smoother in the morning.

And Jenny even picked me up. She’s the best!

We arrived and found VIP parking (at a nearby hotel) easily. We even had time to use the hotel restrooms.

We walked aimlessly (lol) to the shuttle buses and boarded. Jenny, who was going to run some miles before the race, decided to do them near the start.

The marathon had already started and the half was only about 15 minutes from starting. I was surprised at how many were running it. About 3500.

I just squeezed into the crowd. I saw 3:00 pacer nearby. That seemed about right.

Why? The weather. Hot and humid. No need for those throwaways that I had brought. lol.

There was the national anthem and soon we all moved forward together to start.

I’ll do my best to recap the race below. (Warning: it’ll be long… and the photos are often inserted randomly)

My plan, as usual, was to stop and walk briefly at every water stop (so I wouldn’t get dehydrated) and to stop and walk longer to eat a GU around every 3-4 miles.  I also planned to walk whenever necessary and NOT RACE it.

I will also try to put a positive spin on my recap. Honestly, it felt harder than it should have.

Not necessarily the hot weather as I knew how that would affect me but my FEET.

My neuroma bared its ugly head for the first time in 5 years. Then a blister formed on the other foot. When things were going from bad to worse, the last 3 miles or so were running into crazy wind gusts.

Positives. I enjoyed the course, its views and it was for the most part flat. And I loved sharing the excitement before and after the race with Jenny!!!

We started running in town heading east toward the ocean. I recognized the landmarks from my visit the day before.

We ran over a bridge (or walked over as I did) for the only hill on the course.

We didn’t get to route 1A until around mile 3 where we viewed the sunrise.

At first we ran south and then turned around and headed north until around mile 9.5. At least the wind was at our backs though it really didn’t help.

As always, I felt more energetic during the beginning miles.

I stopped at each water stop as planned. They were at about every 1 1/2 miles which normally would be frequent enough but not when it is almost 80 degrees and humid.

Miles 4-6

We continued running north along the water.  I was desperately trying to focus on the beautiful views and not on how warm/sunny it was. Instead of a Gu, I took a salt chew. Blech.

I continued slogging along, running until a water stop.  But my running felt like a crawl. I used my watch to see what mile we were on. The mile markers were non-existent – most likely because there were two different courses. A Half and a Full Marathon.

Though I had downloaded the course map (above), I never looked at it.

So I was pleasantly surprised when we entered a park around mile 5 and looped around it for several miles. A welcome diversion from the ocean but SHADE! That was the good news. Stifling because well, no breeze.

Miles 7-10:

Eventually we exited the park (where I found out Jenny had gotten married 25 years ago) and turned left and ran north again.

I just continued putting one step in front of another. I was determined to finish even if it meant walking the rest of the race.

Around mile 8, we continued north but not directly on the water. It was a nice change in scenery.

The turn around which seemed like a marathon away finally arrived around mile 9.5.

Then a mile later or so, we returned onto 1A heading back south along the water.

I was pleasantly surprised at how many runners around me were doing run/walk intervals and how many runners were walking the whole course.

Around this time, I ate another salt chew (still blech) and started drinking more water and walking longer at the stops.

Miles 10-13.1:

By this point, I was struggling big time. Not sure why. The course was flat!

Too much activity on previous days? Not enough sleep?  The heat?  The humidity?

Whatever the reason, I knew that it would NOT prevent me from finishing.  I kept thinking that there were marathon runners completing the course TWICE!!!!!!  I certainly can do it once.

Then all of a sudden around mile 11, Jenny ran up beside me. She looked fresh as a daisy. I wish I could have joined her through finish line. But I was spent and told her to go ahead.

One last GU and I was able to re-energize and limp/ sprint toward the finish line.

I crossed around 2:40. 

A PW and even slower than 3 years ago  No matter what the time, but I was thrilled to have finished and have finally “run” this RACE again.

Post Race Activities:

I was immediately handed a bottle of water and the HEAVY finisher medal.

It took me a while to get up enough energy to move from sitting on that wall.  I first headed to get some chocolate milk and then sat again and chatted with a few runners (all happy but very very hot and sweaty.)

There were ice bath which were tempting but no

and many photos ops.

I even scanned my bib to see if I won an age group award. Nope (not today!)

Jenny had already finished and gone to her car to change. She was nice enough to bring my bag with my Oofos. Ahhh!

Then I decided that I needed to eat. Nothing really appealed to me though there was quite a variety but my stomach felt too queasy for hotdogs, tacos, burritos, refried beans…

I opted for an ice pop which was just what I needed and a banana.

Can’t believe I passed up muffins, bagels, and cookies plus free beer.

Eventually, we headed back to Jenny’s car in order to get back to Boca where I was staying with my college roommate for the next two nights.

After a long shower, I vegged out at the beach and soaked my aching feet in the ocean.

Additional Race Reflections:

The Good:

• A good number of booths and food/drink samples at the expo.
• Excellent communication about every aspect of the race before, during and after the race.
• Easy packet pick-up
• VIP parking available and city lots and public lots
• Sufficient number of port-a-potties at start/finish and along the course
• Water stops 1.2-1.5 miles apart
• Volunteers/police directing traffic.
• Pacers.
• 6.5 hour time limit for the race (since it included a marathon)
• Lots of crowd support,
• Awesome selection of post race food.
• Music (Band) in the finish area
• Custom Sand Castle,
• Lots of photographers on the course,
• Shuttle before and after, as needed.
• Sunny weather,
• Less congestion with different start and finish areas.
• Beautiful course. Water views throughout.
• Addition of the park loop in the course.
• Friendly staff, participants, volunteers, residents.
• A large variety of post race food (tacos, burritos, hot dogs, fruit, ice pops, cookies, beer, chocolate milk, cold brew, etc.)
• Ocean near the finish area (to go wading/swimming)
• Ice bath tubs
• Massages
• Age groups awards.
• Live tracking and immediate results
• Bag check.
• Multiple distances. 26.2, 13.1 and 6k (5k the day before)
• Jenny running this race.

The Bad:

• Early 5:50 am start time (but probably necessary due to warm temps)
• $50 for VIP parking (yet it sold out quickly)
• Cooler and less humid temps and cloud cover would have been nicer.
• Expensive photos.
• My foot pain!!!!

The Ugly:

• Nothing 🙂 or my pace.

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes. Yes.

It was super well-organized. Special attention was paid to EVERY detail.  The course was scenic.

Final Stats:

I am so proud that my body can run even when the conditions are not optimal.

Yup, pain is temporary. I quickly forgot the next day how much it had hurt.

A far cry from my 2:06:52 PR in 2017 and 2:12:24 finish time in 2022.

This old broad will just have to be content finishing upright from now on, I guess. 🙂

Next Up:

Happy Running! Have you ever been to Fort Lauderdale? Ever run this race? Any big races planned for 2025? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Race-cations have been an annual tradition with my running friends since 2017. We started in Corning, NY and then traveled to Montreal, and Brooklyn, NY.

In 2020 and 2021, my friends and I rented a house for 3 nights in Hampton Beach, NH and ran a half marathon (among other fun shenanigans.)

It was so much fun that the next year, we rented in Old Orchard Beach, Maine and we ran the Portland Half Marathon or Marathon Relay.

Last year, we stayed in NYS but rented a house in the Finger Lakes Region. We all raced different distances (5k, 13.1, 18 mi) and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves (despite some rain.)

We rented a house on Cape Cod this year.

So I signed up for the Cape Cod Half Marathon for several reasons:

• A race-cation.
• My friends would be racing with me.
• Ocean views.
• There was a 5k option in addition to a half marathon
• The distance fit right into my marathon training plan.

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. But I do run shorter distances several times during the work week. My weekday runs are usually solo.

And on the weekends, I try to do my Long Run. Usually most of my miles are with one or more of my running friends.

13, 16, 18!!

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

My taper consisted of  a 18 mile marathon training run and two short runs during the work week:

We carpooled and left for Cape Cod early on Friday morning. Our first stop was lunch.

Next we checked into our VrBo in Falmouth, MA.

Then we headed to get our half marathon bib/shirts and check out the race start and parking.

Some of us signed up for the half and those who signed up for the 5k would pick up their bib/shirts on Saturday.

We walked around the expo (I didn’t buy anything.) but Sherry did buy Frank Shorter’s book and had him sign it.

By the time were were done, it was time for an early dinner. We ordered pizza (of course) and ate at our house.

Finally #flatmes were organized and we headed to bed early (though I never can sleep the night before a race.)

Race Day:

Sorry to be a broken record about not having a time goal. But my goal for races these days is to FINISH happy (that is not injured and ready to do another.)

For this race, however, due to the date, it would actually be a training run for the NYC Marathon on Nov. 3.

So if I had to guestimate my time, it would have been between 2:30 and 2:45.

Actually, even more important would be to run a smarter and less painful race than my last half marathon Labor Day weekend. Slower the first half so that I can enjoy the second half of the race…

The race was advertised as follows:

The race starts and finishes at the Mullen Hall School (130 Katharine Lee Bates Road, Falmouth, MA).

The Cape Cod Marathon Half race course is a fast and scenic route that hugs the Falmouth coastline of Nantucket Sound. Designed to maximize runners’ view of Martha’s Vineyard and the beautiful waters of the Sound, this out and back course is limited to one hill, the famous final hill for the Falmouth Road Race located in the Heights of Falmouth Heights. But don’t be alarmed – this one hill occurs at miles 6.6 and 10.5 and is over before you know it.

There are 6 stations total plus pre and post hydration at the start and finish line. All water stops will have water and Gatorade.

Portable restrooms will be at start/finish area, as well as at each water station along the course.

Included in entry fee:

• Long sleeve shirt
• Customized bib
• Secure gear check
• Unique coastal medal
• 6 water/Gatorade stations with Port-a-Johns at each location on the course
• Hot clam chowdah and soup station with vegan, gluten free and dairy free options at the finish line!
• Apple cider donuts!
• Changing tents at the finish (NEW)
• The best town, volunteers and committee to answer any questions you may have!

Four of us were running the half which started at 8:00 am.

There were close to 2000 runners in the half marathon which was the most popular of the 3 races

The runners left at 6:45 and we easily found parking. The others would arrive later and cheer us on.

I was definitely overdressed and took off most of my throw aways and hid them in the school. It was nice to have a warm place to wait.

I checked a bag with shoes and jacket for after the race. It turned out to be totally unnecessary.

Barb, Deb and Sherry left in search of the porta-potties. I waited inside for them.

Eventually they were starting the race. I guess the porta-potties lines were very long and so I left and headed to the race start.

They announced that they were starting in waves which was confusing since everyone just entered and started running when they crossed the start line.

Miles 1-3:

We started at Mullen Hall School and then headed toward the water (actually Salt Pond not the ocean yet). It was sunny but very WINDY.

I had decided to only walk at each mile until I needed to walk more often.  I made sure to drink at all water stops. I think there were at least 6 and eat a GU at every other or every 4 miles.

Miles 3-6:

We turned left onto a Bikeway which was really nice. Shady and less wind… but soon we were back along the water (now the ocean). It was again sunny but the wind seemed to be at our backs for a while. At mile 5 we turned onto Scranton Ave… still along the ocean but an inlet lined with restaurants and marinas.

Miles 6-9:

It was a beautiful course and now for several miles were running along the ocean.

The race advertised it as having one big hill… at mile 6.6.  Yup. It was steep and annoying and so I walked up it. There were also some smaller hills so not as flat as I had heard. A little past mile 8, we turned into the neighborhood and circled around heading along the ocean in the opposite direction,  Holy WIND!!!  So hard to move forward…

Miles  9-13.1:

We got a little reprieve from the wind around mile 9.5 when we turned and ran about a mile around a neighborhood.

But soon we were back along the water running into the wind. And at mile 10.5, we hit the big hill again. Of course, it was worse this time because the wind was in our faces.

As the miles went on, I struggled more and more. I walked more often. Miles 9-12 were pretty ugly. Nothing major hurt, just the usual aching lower back and sore left foot.

I was glad to be finally heading back to the school and the finish line. As I approached the finish line, our friends were ringing bells and screaming my name.  It was great to have their support.  I tried to sprint and look good as I passed them.

Post Race Activities:

I got my medal and a foil wrap (that was unnecessary) and headed to bag check (also unnecessary.)

Barb had already finished (She ran a great race,) and we headed back to the finish line to cheer on Deb and then Sherry (who had walked).

Once we all had finished, I went to the food tent and grabbed some chip (Cape Cod potato chips. LOL), some soup (You had a choice of clam chowder, turkey/rice or minestrone) and a cider donut.

Eventually we all headed home to shower, relax and then head out for a celebratory meal.

We ended the day with drinks and s’mores.

Additional Race Reflections:

It was so fun to be out there and soaking up the racing atmosphere. It was even more fun to run a race with friends.

Of course, initially I may have wanted a faster finish time…

I am competitive but I realized quickly that it was much more important enjoy this time with my friends and also not to be in pain.

I felt fine the next day. We went on a hike.

I even ran Monday morning.

Guess what? We already picked our race-cation location for next October…

and rented our house:

Positives:

• Part of a 4 day race-cation with friends.
• Half marathon, 5k, marathon and marathon relay – 4 options
• They gave our group a $10 discount.
• Well-marked course.
• Easy packet pick-up.
• Frank Shorter at the expo.
• Long sleeved tech shirts
• Lots of volunteers and crowd support
• Friends cheering you on at the finish line
• Free Photos
• Instant race results
• Post race food – potato chips, apples, bananas, 3 types of soups (minestrone, clam chowder, turkey/rice and cider donuts
• Nice medal provided to all runners.
• Adequate number of water stops.
• $$ as age group awards
• Perfect weather
• Plenty of free parking
• 1.5 miles from our rental

Negatives:

• They changed the date of the 5k after we rented the house.

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. yes. For all the reasons mentioned above.

Final Stats:

All in all, I was happy with my results. Yes, it was one of my slowest half marathons.  But it was only 10 seconds slower than my last one which was on an easier course. And I’ve been training for a marathon. My expectations have dropped significantly and I ain’t getting any younger.

And when I checked the age group results:

Yes, I won my age group.  No big deal but check this out:

I WON $75!!!!!!!!!! First time I’ve ever won money for a race.

Next Up:

11-3-24

Happy Running! Have you run a fall race yet? If so, how did go? Are you planning to run one? Any race-cations planned? Please share.

 

 

 

 

---

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

---

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

 

In 2021 when most of the local races either cancelled or went virtual, Albany Running Exchange (ARE) began scheduling COVID Safety Plan approved races.

That March, I ran their 5 mile race and then in May a point-to-point 10 miler.  The courses were along the Mohawk River and the bike path, mostly flat or downhill and in Schenectady, NY. (Both these races are now part of their regular schedule.)

In September of 2021 and again in 2022 and 2023, another organization (NARK) offered a half marathon (Run 4 the River) on a similar course.  Of course, I signed up (and convinced some friends to join me.)

And I signed up for the 4th annual Run 4 the River Half Marathon for several reasons:

• It was local and I could sleep in my own bed the night before.
• It was local so I would know a lot of the runners.
• I was familiar with most of the course as I had already run this half marathon three times.
• I convinced some friends to run it too.
• It was advertised as having a Net Downhill Course and FREE BEER, Food, and LIVE MUSIC
• I could run it as a training run for my November MARATHON.

Honestly, this year, I mainly decided to run this race because my NYC Marathon plan called for 13 miles this weekend.

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a half marathon training plan. But I was in the midst of training for my marathon and so I did complete three short runs during the work week.

And on the weekends, I always try to do my Long Run. I’m lucky to have the company of several running friends.  Due to the extreme heat and humidity this summer, I have adopted my friends’ run/walk intervals.  It really helped me get through the long runs. (We have also often joked and re-labeled them walk/run intervals since we walk so often.)

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Since it was a point-to-point race, the logistics were complicated. Either you parked at the start and got a ride back to your car after the race or you parked at the finish and got a ride to the start (or pay for the shuttle).

We had several plans and they kept changing but we finally figured out the best option.

As always, I carb loaded on pizza the night before. Then I debated about what to wear the next day.

It was supposed to be little cooler than my previous long runs. But still warm and in the 70s by noon and very HUMID.  Thunderstorms were predicted for the afternoon.

Race Day:

As it did the previous three years, the race started at 8:00 am at Mabee Farms in Rotterdam. The race again ended at Frog Alley Brewing near Schenectady Community College (SCCC). The first year,  it ended right at the college.

So I got up around 5:15 am on Saturday morning (ouch) and was on the road by 6:15 to meet Barbara and then I drove us to Deirdre’s. She would be driving us and Kevin plus Kevin’s friend to the start.

Some of our other friends would have parked their cars near the finish so I knew that Barbara & I could get a ride back.

When we arrived at Mabee Farms, there was plenty of parking in a grassy lot.

We were early so I had time to chat with other runners and use the restrooms.

We also knew that in addition to porta-potties, there would be REAL restrooms (always a great perk.)

Finally, it was time to head to the start.

First I checked a bag with a dry shirt and my Oofos for after the race and then I ate a Honey Stinger Waffle (since it was already hours since my breakfast).

The race started promptly at 8:00 am. There were no waves or corrals… They called out finish times asking the faster runners to line up first.

The NYC Marathon was my focus this fall so my goal for this race and my next race was to FINISH happy (that is not injured and ready to do another.)

All my long runs have been done slowly and with short intervals. I found out during my last race (which was a 10k) that it didn’t exactly make me slower (or maybe it did?) but I found it hard to run for more than a minute or two without walking… I used to be able to run 1-2 miles straight (not that it matters…)

Miles 1-3:

As I already mentioned, the race began near Mabee Farms Historical site. The first mile headed west, mostly on Route 5S. We ran along the road and fairly soon connected with the Erie Canal Bike Path.

I was determined this year to start out slower so I would not die at the end. (Spoiler alert: I did but I still died.)

Although many of friends use run/walk intervals, I would do what I normally do: run and then walk whenever tired.

Unfortunately I already needed to walk by mile 1. That need continued each mile and the number of times I needed to walk increased as the race progressed (Ugh!)

Anyway, there was an un-official water stop around mile 1 but I did skip it. That was the only one I skipped. I did high five my neighbor who was there (she was recovering from an injury).

The canal was on our right and most of the race was run on the path with water views.

The scenery was pretty. The Mohawk River changed to being on the left eventually.

The first official water stop was a little after mile 3 at Pattersonville Bike Path parking on 5S.  This was where my running friends were volunteering.  It was great to hear them cheering us on.

Stan passed me by there and Barbara was catching up.

Instead of eating my first Gu, I ate some salt chews (something new!).  I was hoping they’d prevent me from cramping and feeling dizzy at the end of the race.

Miles 4-6

Most of what I remember is that my feet hurt (specifically the neuroma on my left foo and then a blister forming on my right foot).

Stan disappeared quickly ahead but I could see Barbara in the distance. She was getting farther and farther ahead and eventually disappearing from view as well.

I continued to walk at least once each mile.  Running just felt HARD!

There was second water stop little past mile 5 at Iroquois St/Bike Path. Here I ate my first GU.

And I continued to add additional walk breaks whenever there was a slight hill/incline.

Around this point, the crowd thinned out a lot and I was running mostly alone. In fact I felt alone for most of the race after mile 3.  Whenever a runner caught up to me, they then passed me.  I guess I was running pretty slow!!

Besides the water stop areas, there were few spectators due it being a bike path.

What I enjoy about races are the runners, the crowds, the energy.  Since there was none, I obviously was not having fun!!

Miles 7-10

The course was pretty flat and shady for the most part.  The temps were rising, the sun came out but it was not too bad. I have raced in a lot worse conditions.

Both of my feet continued to ache. Bunion? Stress fracture? Recurrence of the neuroma? As these thoughts ran through my head, I ran slower and walked more.

There was another water stop was a little before mile 8 at Kiwanis Park. I walked again and then ate two more salt chews.  My neighbor appeared again and cheered me on.

Around mile 9, some annoying hills appeared. Maybe there weren’t big hills and I was just getting tired. I tried to run up them but it was more like a slog. Though the course was advertised as flat and downhill, there were hills (not big ones) throughout. (Aren’t there always?)

Miles 11-13.1

The final water stop was a little before Mile 11 at MH Bike Path lot. I stopped again and ate my second Gu.

The race finish was the same as last year. We headed into the city of Schenectady.

All of a sudden, a racing friend who was way behind me caught up. We chatted for a minute as I struggled and then she passed me.

I tried to pick up the pace and sprint through the finish line…

My friends who didn’t run the race were there cheering.  It was sooo nice to see familiar faces.

At least, this year, I knew that you had to turn right to get to the finish line…

I was out of gas but at least it was downhill!!

And that racing friend who had just passed me was in my age group and that motivated me to move my tired legs.

Yup. I beat her!!!! (She was very gracious. “Nice kick at the end,” she said to me.)

Boy, was I glad to be done!! I grabbed my medal and went in search of my bag (so I could put on my Oofos.)

Post Race Activities:

Barbara had finished already and so had Stan. I joined my non-racing friends near the finish line to cheer in Sherry who had not finished yet.

There was a band, beer, food, etc. at the restaurant where the race finished (the sponsor for the race).

It was crowded but fortunately we got a table. Rather than a boxed lunch (as the first year), you got a free beer and a choice of the food above from a buffet or a whole pizza. I chose the whole pizza (and I ate it ALL!)

We stayed for several hours listening to the band and chatting…about running, of course.

I did check the results and noticed that I finished 2nd in my 70-99 year age group.

Additional Race Reflections:

Of course, I am glad that I ran the race. Much more fun than a boring 13 miler on the bike path… (at least at the after party!!)

Yet I was disappointed. Not in my finish time. But in how I struggled to finish 13.1 miles. I felt that I did everything right:

• Long runs on the weekend
• 3 Short runs during the week
• 3 Visits to the gym during the week
• Carb loaded the night before
• Fueled before and during the race
• The weather wasn’t perfect but not awful
• The course was mostly flat.

IOW, what should I do differently? (Wear newer shoes??)

Positives:

• Ample parking at the start and finish.
• Bag check
• Well marked course.
• Varied scenery including river views
• Shuttle to the start (if needed).
• Flatish course.
• Well organized.
• Friends supporting.
• A lot of pre-race information.
• Free Post-race food.
• Free Beer.
• Entertainment at the after party
• Cool medal.

Negatives:

• 10 year age group awards.
• No photos of everyone.
• Restrooms at Mabee Farms locked.
• Porta-potties only at one water stop.
• Running alone.
• Foot issues.

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. I liked the course. It was well-organized. The after-race party was so much fun.

Final Stats:

Walking definitely slowed down my pace. And my foot pain probably slowed down my running pace.  It just wasn’t my day!!

I finished this race in 2:20:57 in 2021, 2:20:53 in 2022 and last year in 2:19:21.  

Hooray for another course PW for 2024!!

(In hindsight, I am grateful that I completed the distance since I may not be running for a while. IOW, never take that gift for granted!!)

Next Up:

Another Half Marathon in 5 weeks.  Can I redeem myself? Due to injuries in a boating accident, will I even be able to run it???

 

 

 

 

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Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

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and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

This was my third time running this half marathon. I ran it in 2018 in the pouring rain… I definitely did not get to enjoy my post-race Coney Island experience.

I ran it again last year and the weather was exactly the same.

So I signed up to run Brooklyn in 2024 for these reasons:

• I love NYC (and Brooklyn).
• I surprisingly got a guaranteed entry.
• My two local running buddies were running it too.
• I ran a local half marathon a month before so I was sorta trained already.
• NYRR races are so well-organized.
• Who wouldn’t want to finish at the beach on Coney Island?
• It was on a Saturday so I would not have to take the next day off from work.
• I wanted to re-do on this race after the wet ones in 2018 AND 2023.

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan.  I ran my last half marathon on April 13.

Since then, I have completed easy SHORT weekday runs and a few longish runs on most weekends.

Though I don’t usually care much about my short runs, I usually like to get in a 10, 11 and 12 miler before each half marathon.

I got in a 10 miler after the half marathon but I skipped the 11 mile run in favor of a 10k race.

After the 10k race, I went to Florida and skipped my 12 mile long run in favor of a 5k race (in the heat/humidity.)

And then I tapered with a SLOW (hard) 10 miler.

Obviously I was a little worried about my endurance. However, I didn’t expect to run the half marathon at a PR pace anyway. I was running it purely for the experience. I was very excited to be out there racing with friends.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

As I did for the NYC Half Marathon, I planned this race with my two local running friends Sherry and Stan.

Stan’s friend, Lisa, also decided to come along and support us even though she was not running the race.

We all took the train to Manhattan early Friday morning.

Once we arrived in Manhattan, we took the subway to our new hotel (we decided not to stay in Brooklyn this year but in the financial district of Manhattan), left our bags and started carb loading at a nearby restaurant.

After lunch, we walked to the Brooklyn Bridge and then over it.

From there we walked to the Pre-Race Party location at Pier 2…

to get our shirts and bibs.

Of course we took the prerequisite photos:

and then headed back to check into our hotel.

After we checked into our hotel and unpacked, it was time to head out again for a pre-dinner snack

followed by dinner – carb loading on pizza at a nearby restaurant.