May 30, 2023 by Darlene

Miles On The Mohawk 10 Mile Race Recap

May 28, 2023 8:30AM

With most of the local races either cancelled or virtual in 2020, Albany Running Exchange (ARE) began scheduling COVID Safety Plan approved races in 2021. This was one of them and unfortunately, it POURED the whole race.

In March of 2021, I ran their five mile race (Electric City) which ends in the same location as this race.

Last year, it SNOWED the entire Electric City Five Miler. And this March, I was injured and only volunteered for the 5 miler. The weather was awful too!!

Last May I ran this 10 miler on a very hot day. I did it with several friends and had fun.

The race is advertised as “a very fast, point-to-point course.”

As you can from the elevation chart below, it is not exactly what I would call fast (I see hills!!)

The logistics were also 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).

My preference was to park at the finish (even though that meant getting up earlier.)

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

I have run several 10 mile races. My slowest was in 2014: (1:49:55), my first one, and my PR was my third in the same year (1:38:45). All the others were somewhere in between as well as last year’s at 1:43:56.

Usually on the weekends this time of year, I run short races (which helps me work on my speed.)

This year, because of my foot injury, I choose to just run long slow runs and train for the Brooklyn Half Marathon.

With Brooklyn being the weekend before, I almost DNSed this race.

But I had already paid for it so I decided “What the heck?” And the next day was a holiday so I could relax at the lake.

I fully expected a PW and just wanted to enjoy another race but stay healthy so I could begin training for the NYC full marathon in July!!

I opted to not pick up my bib on Thursday or Friday. Neither location was convenient. I decided that I would just pick it up before the race on Sunday.

I met my running friends Saturday morning to walk and after have brunch.

Then I did some errands, gardening and carb loaded on Saturday evening. I debated about what to wear the next day. I was hoping that it would be cooler than last year.

done and sweaty!

Forecast:

#flatme:

similar outfit to last year

Race Day:

Race morning was my worst nightmare. My alarm never went off…. why? No power!!

I woke up at 6:10 am and was planning to leave at 6:15!! Yikes.

No power meant no coffee and no oatmeal breakfast. Luckily we have a generator but it doesn’t go on automatically.

Well, by the time my hubby got everything going, I ate breakfast and was ready to leave, I thought that I might miss the shuttle bus to the start. So I decided to drive straight to the start. Of course now I would after the race need a ride back to my car.

I did arrive with plenty of time to pick up my bib, walk around, visit with the animals and use the (real) restrooms. (Still it was a stressful morning to say the least.)

baby goats

restrooms

As you can see from the photos, there was not a cloud in the sky!! A beautiful day. And the conditions seemed perfect early that morning.. I was even a little chilly.

Though my running friends did not sign up for the race, I did connect with quite a few runners that I knew.

I had to take a picture because we were wearing the same skirt.

another Skirt Sports ambassador

I decided to leave my throwaway shirt and DIY arm warmers in my car….

The race started at 8:30 am. So soon it was time to head to the start area.

There were no corrals so I just entered into the crowd somewhere in middle or perhaps closer to the front. I chatted with friends until it was time to move.

Sorry to be a broken record but my goal for races these days is FINISH happy (that is not injured and ready to do another.) Throw those time goals out the window!! Especially for race with those predicted warm temps

Miles 1-3:

The race began near Mabee Farm 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.

In other words, the canal was on our right and most of the race was run on the path with water views. As I ran the first mile, everyone appeared to be passing me by. But I didn’t look at my watch, just kept going with the flow.

The scenery was pretty. Unfortunately there was little if any shade! Of course, my pace was decent at first. I was feeling good… until I wasn’t.

The Mohawk river changed to being on the left. And the temps started warming up quickly.

The first water stop was at mile 3.3 (Kiwanis Park) Dying at this point. I was used to from the last race, water at every mile! Because there were so few water stops, I ate my first GU at this one… a new flavor (raspberry lime?) UGH!! Nauseating!

Miles 4-6

Most of the race is a blur. I walked and ran. Those runners around me were doing the same. I tried to run more than walk. Not sure at times if I did or not. Some runners did continue to just run. But we played leap frog as I passed them when I ran and they passed me when I walked.

There was finally a second water stop at mile 5.6 (Lock 8 Park). More water but I wasn’t really hungry so I just ate half a GU.

Miles 7-10

The temps were rising. I wished I hadn’t worn my calf sleeves. The third water stop was around mile 8.1 (SCCC Bike Path Parking Area). I finished the other half of my GU and gave myself a shower of water.

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.

At this point, my lower back started to ache. Why? My form? My shoes? (Who knows?) My feet did not hurt much (and no blister) so there’s that!!

The crowd was also thinning. And I was walking more and running slower.

But eventually we headed toward Mohawk Harbor where you could hear the roar of the crowds.

As I headed toward the finish line, I got one last burst of energy.

I crossed at 1:43:XX . Happy to done and upright.

Post-Race Activities

I got my medal and some water.

I was excited to see that my running friends Sherry, Heidi and Stan showed up to cheer me on!!

Next, I grabbed my lunch (that I would give to my hubby when I got home.)

turkey sandwich, chips, fruit and a brownie

I stopped by the results table and surprisingly I did win an age group award. 2nd! You had a choice of shirts, and other stuff but instead I opted for a $10 coupon for a race registration.

I’m not a beer drinker but I would have loved something cold to drink. We got a ticket for a free one but this year, the restaurant didn’t open until noon!!

Instead, my running friends and I decided to go out to brunch.

very yummy!!

Remember my car was at the start… luckily one of my friends agreed to drive me back to pick it up.

Additional Race Reflections:

So yeah, I finished slower than I wished. But hey, it was much hotter than I had hoped. Actually I realized later that it was a little faster than this race last year!

It was also fun to see the many running friends (that I missed when I skipped so many races this spring.)

I never regret a race that I’ve run. I bet I run this one again next year.

Positives:

Ample parking at the start and finish.
Real restrooms at Mabee Farm
Bag check
Well marked course.
Varied scenery including river views
Lots of course marshals
Shuttle to the start (if needed).
Well organized.
A lot of pre-race information.
Familiar faces
Decent Post-race food.
Race shirt optional for more money
Cool medal.
Free Beer (in Druthers) after noon
Free photos
Immediate results (and live tracking)

Negatives:

HEAT
More water stops needed (for this weather)

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes.

It was super well-organized. Special attention was paid to EVERY detail. It will be even more fun when the weather is cooler.

Final Stats:

positive splits! AGAIN!!

Walking after mile 3 definitely slowed down my pace:

Next Up:

My favorite 5k

June 3, 2023

Happy Running! Have you run a race yet in the summer heat? ? If so, how did go? Are you planning to run a long race this summer? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

May 23, 2023 by Darlene

2023 RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon Race Recap

MAY 20, 2023

This was my 2nd 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.

So I signed up to run Brooklyn in 2023 for several reasons:

I love NYC (and Brooklyn).
I surprisingly got a guaranteed entry.
My two local running buddies were running it too.
~~We all ran a local half marathon a month before so we were 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 this race after the wet one in 2018.
I had to DNS on all my 2023 half marathons so I was super excited to give this one a try!!

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 15~~ November 20, 2022. I broke my foot and had to DNS my half marathons in February, March and April.

Since March 20, I have completed easy SHORT weekday runs and a few longish runs on most weekends.

the plan though I admit it got altered quite frequently

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.

Thanks to support from my running friends, I used run/walk intervals and got those long runs done.

They were slow and they all felt very hard.

After the 12 miler, I went to Florida and skipped my long run in favor of a short easy run (in the heat/humidity.)

So I tapered with another SLOW (hard) 10 miler.

refueled with birthday cake!!

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 back out there racing.

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.

thanks to my broken foot, they are now a “couple” – long story

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 Friday morning. While on the train, I decided to use my app to check into our hotel. Well, the reservations had disappeared!! What? So I called the hotel, they gave me some bogus stories about me cancelling my reservations. Long story short, it appears that the hotel had closed and they didn’t notify anyone. Luckily we were able to find another hotel (although it cost a lot more and it wasn’t within walking distance of the race start).

Once we arrived in Manhattan, we took the subway to our new hotel, left our bags and started carb loading at a nearby restaurant.

After lunch, we took another subway to Pier 2 (near the Brooklyn Bridge) Pre-Race Party location to get our shirts and bibs.

not a fan of the design or color

I didn’t buy anything at the expo although I was tempted to buy another pair of Goodrs.

We took the prerequisite photos

and then headed back by subway to check into our hotel.

As you can tell by the photos, it was a beautiful day (perfect for a race… LOL).

After we checked into our hotel and unpacked, it was time to head out again (by subway) for dinner.

pizza, of course

There was a lot of stress due to the weather predictions for race day:

I laid out my outfit:

Of course, I needed to add a rain poncho, throwaway shirt, etc.

Fortunately, our friend Lisa agreed to meet us at the finish and carry everything we would need for after the race: umbrella, dry shirt, oofos, race jacket and more!! For all three of us.

Race Day:

Alarm set for 5 am. After much debate, we decided it was too far to walk, too complicated to take a subway and so I had ordered an Uber to leave for the race at 6:15 am.

Minimal sleep, if any.

I brought my usual race breakfast of oatmeal and coffee with me and ate in the hotel room.

At least it was not raining when we left the hotel.

We were all in Wave 2 and so we didn’t started until 7:45 am.

The Uber left us off near Grand Army Plaza. I think we were there by 6:30. Everything was very organized… the security line moved very quickly.

Of course, it started to drizzle (just like the forecast said.)

staying dry until the race started

There was an abundant number of porta potties and minimal lines.

We decided to all wait in Sherry’s corral (J).

I considered doing run/walk intervals with Sherry (since we did ALL our long runs like that) … but in the end, I decided to move up (to corral D) and do my own thing. Stan did the same (in corral G)

My plan for the race, 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 at every 4 miles or so. And then basically walk whenever I needed to. Based on my training runs, that would be pretty often.

Lisa, Sherry, Stan and I planned to meet at the finish and then hang out. Of course weather permitting.

Anyway, here’s how the race went (photos courtesy of the NYRR/Cheer Everywhere/ FB websites):

Miles 1-3:

Eventually we started to move. I immediately ditched my poncho. And long walk it was to the start line (and I was only in D). Some runners actually ran but nope, I walked until I hit the start line. It was drizzling but with the humidity, it felt very comfortable. I was secretly hoping that this light rain would last until I was done with the race. It was warm enough that I threw away my long sleeve shirt right away.

NYRR photo

As you can see, it was quite congested in the beginning of the race. Did I mention that almost 26,000 started this race and half were in Wave 2? I may have started middle of the pack but moved into BOTP by the 2nd half of the race.

For the first 3 miles, you ran outside of Prospect Park and there were minor ups and downs in the elevation.

(Photo by NYRR)

Of course, I had amnesia thinking that the hills weren’t bad at all. (LOL I hadn’t hit the hills yet.)

(Photo for NYRR)

My plan to stop at every water stop slowed me down because in this race, they were at every mile (not every 2 miles as I was used to.) I stopped anyway even though I wasn’t thirsty. They were a tempting opportunity to walk and so that’s what I did.

NYRR photo

By the 5k point, I was getting hungry (since I had eaten breakfast at 5:30 am) and ate my first GU.

NYRR photo

I tried not to look at my Garmin at all because it would make me stressed… but every mile, my pace would pop up. I was shocked at my pace for the first few miles… I didn’t feel like I was running that fast. But based on my training, I knew that I would slow down but I decided to just continue at this pace until I couldn’t.

Miles 4-6:

NYRR photo

At mile 4, you headed into the park. It started off flat and just before Mile 5 comes the biggest hill on the course which is not as steep as some of those Central Park hills, but seems like it will never end. I continued my water stop walking and used the one at hilly 10k clock to eat my second GU. Thankfully as you loop around the park, you discover what goes up must come down and you get to enjoy a nice downhill. This was my favorite part of the race. At this point, I actually felt warm (due to the humidity).

NYRR photo

The downside was that it was raining more steadily, there were puddles and my feet were getting very wet. Wet sock + bunion = BIG painful blister.

I got one on my right foot and it hurt with every step. I tried to figure out how to step without the pain but there was NO WAY!

Then I passed this runner:

Yup, I told myself to “Suck it up.”

Miles 7-9:

Finally, the part of the race I was waiting or… No more hills!

from FB – recognize these celebrities??

As you come through Mile 7 just outside the park, you head to Ocean Parkway with a quick dip down and a steady bump in elevation on the entrance ramp.

I tried to think of this as my final stretch to the finish line. But it felt like Ocean Parkway would never end. Until this point in the race, I was really feeling strong. My injury layoff and it being my first half marathon in a long time really reared its ugly head at mile 9. My lower back starting aching. As a result, walks at the water stops were getting longer. To make things worse, it was raining even harder. Believe it or not, there were lively crowds all along the course…even in this weather. That helped a lot.

The volunteers at all the water stops were so supportive too.

Miles 10-12

Still running down that endless Ocean Parkway. At the 15k clock, I ate my third GU and walked what seemed like forever hoping to get some zip in my step. But now it was POURING!!! (Those Wave 1 runners lucked out.)

Finally as you ran South, the Avenues go in order from A to Z then you make a right hand turn onto Surf Avenue where you can see the roller coasters up ahead. But by mile 12, I barely had any energy. I just willed myself to continue. I knew the end was near.

Run…walk… run… walk….

Mile 13- 13.25

from FB

Soon I saw the sign that said “800 meters to go” and then I was finally on the boardwalk.

400 meters… then 200 meters.

NYRR photo

It was SO SLIPPERLY that I had to walk several times to make sure I didn’t fall.

The finish line seemed so far away but all of a sudden, the race was over. I crossed…. (LOL… I thought I sprinted but maybe not…)

chip time= 2:21:41

Post Race Activities:

NYRR photo

I pushed through the runners finishing to get my medal and then was handed a bag with boxed water, Gatorade and some snacks.

wet but happy

I followed the crowd to exit and walked and walked to eventually get into the park/stadium.

NYRR photo

Our original plan was to hang around, go to the After Party (where you got beer, pizza, Nathan’s famous hot dogs, etc.) and even walk along the boardwalk (dip our feet into the ocean, etc.)

Not into this weather, our friend Lisa has texted us that she would be on the bleachers where families were directed to wait (and in section R).

The sections started with A and so I limped to R and finally found her. I was soaked and FREEZING and glad to put on my rain jacket.

in hindsight I wish I had changed into a dry shirt… brrrrr

Stan had finished just after me followed by Sherry. We walked toward the exit to find them.

They both exceeded their time expectations and were cold, wet but happy, as well.

We quickly headed to the subway where we shivered for 16 stops before arriving at our hotel.

I took the longest HOT shower ever, changed into dry clothes and bandaged up my blood blister. We were all starved and I hoped that Lisa had found a nearby restaurant for lunch.

Luckily the food was delicious because we walked several miles in a monsoon there and back.

Then we had to shop for Stan’s birthday celebration (more walking in the rain.)

Will this day ever end?

Nope, we hopped the subway and headed to Manhattan for an recovery/celebration Italian dinner…

It was sooo delicious (sorry no pix).

Finally back to Brooklyn for dessert and champagne.

My bed that night never felt so good.

Additional Race Reflections:

Though there were timing clocks at every mile during the race, they started when the elites of wave 1 started so I really wasn’t sure how I was doing. I kept thinking that I was about an hour less than the displayed time.

So I was really pleased at my time. I thought I would finish much slower. I knew I would not come close to my 2018 time of 2:11:23 but secretly, I wanted to finish faster than 2:27. That was the qualifying time for my new age group for the NYC Half, Brooklyn Half and NYC Full Marathon in 2024. (I may not run them all but it’s nice to have that option.)

Well, this was a bucket list race for me. Since I couldn’t train hard, I was expecting to completely enjoy my experience, take lots of photos, hang out at the beach, etc.

All of this impossible in such miserable weather conditions.

But no, I don’t regret running the race. I actually liked the course more than I thought I would. The hills weren’t as bad as Central Park. More than 25,000 excited runners. So much energy. NYRR puts on a first class event.

And running a race with friends made the experience even better.

The Good:

Easy organized packet pick-up.
Lots of information from sign up to race day
The excitement and energy
Prospect Park part of the course
Ending on the board walk of Coney Island
Hot Dogs and Beer at the Post-Race Party (even though I didn’t have any)
Water & Gatorade Stops at every mile (many tables of cups and many enthusiastic volunteers)
Crowd Support (even in the rain)
Having friends to train with and spend the race weekend

The Bad:

Running down Ocean Ave for so long was a little boring
Pre-Race Party was disappointing – very few vendors
Prospect Park Hills (since I didn’t train on hills)
Slippery Boardwalk at the finish
DOMS two days after.

The Ugly:

The Weather!!
That blister!

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Definitely.

And my finish time will give me a guaranteed-entry into this race for 2024.

Though I wish that I could wait to see the weather forecast before I sign up again.

Final Stats:

It was not my slowest half marathon. And as I mentioned above, it was faster than I expected (based on my long run pace).

I’m pretty sure than if I didn’t take 5 weeks off from running due to a broken foot and have to skip THREE half marathons, I would have run this race more confidently and had a better finish time.

But it is what it is and I am truly grateful to to able to race again.

I retain my title as “queen of the positive splits”

well, at least no 12 minute miles

I didn’t use run/walk intervals but I did stop and walk at EVERY water stop and the 2nd half of the race, I walked several times between water stops.

Next Up:

10 MILER – May 28, 2023

Happy Running! Have you ever run this race or any NYRR races? Do you prefer large races or small ones? Do you enjoy running in the rain? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

April 18, 2023 by Darlene

Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon Race Recap – Again as a Spectator

Image result for helderberg to hudson half marathon

***************April 15, 2022******

As with all my big races, I impulsively sign up way in advance (and then often regret it LOL).

I ran the first annual H2H half marathon in 2019. Due to COVID, in 2020, I ran the race virtually and in 2021, I ran it on a completely different course (a hilly one). Last year, it returned to its original course

: 2019 – First H2H HM

: 2020 – Virtual H2H HM

: 2021- H2M HM (on a revised course)

: 2022 – Second H2H HM

So I signed up for 2023 Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon for several reasons:

FOMO. Many of my running friends were doing it.
It’s local. I can sleep in my own bed.
I am familiar with the course. I run on it often.
It’s a downhill course. (470 ft elevation loss)
~~I was already sorta trained from my March 19 Half.~~
It was part of a challenge with the Miles on the Mohawk race that I had also signed up for.

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I broke my foot on Feb. 14 while on a vacation in Florida and I had to DNS TWO half marathons (Fort Lauderdale and NYC).

I casually started running again after a month but really started after my 5 week x-ray revealed the the fracture has fully healed.

March 20

I debated over and over again on what to do about this race:

Transfer my bib and volunteer or spectate
Walk 13.1 miles
Run/Walk 13.1
Go for it… Run it!

The complication with the transfer was that I registered for the Challenge and it included TWO races – this half and a 10 miler on May 28. So I would be transferring both.

So I contacted the Race Director and they said that they would be able to separate the registrations.

I had started running short and slow distances and gradually increased my weekend runs from 4 to 6 to 8 miles Using run/walk intervals).

Could I run 13.1 miles???

Ultimately, pride aside, I opted to skip the race, not risk injury and concentrate on being prepared for my May 20 half marathon.

And my running friend Barbara bought my registration to this race but I kept the one for the May 28 Miles On The Mohawk 10 miler (for now.)

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

thumbs up in 2019 as my 2:11:15 finish time qualified me for the 2020 NYC Half Marathon. & Marathon

last year, 2022, my finish time of 2:12:24 was my fastest of 9 for the year

So before my injury, I was hoping that again this race would be my fastest of the year.

Today, I could just watch.

Several of my friends were running this race so I decided to volunteer to help in the finish area.

Race Day:

Since I had run this race before, I was familiar with the start and finish logistics.

Course Map:

My assignment was to help set-up at the finish line which was at Jennings Landing in Albany (along the Hudson.)

I arrived around 8:15 am and got a great spot in the parking lot by the boat launch and walked to the finish.

My first job was to help unload the bus with the checked bags.

I wanted to hang around and wait for runners to finish.

So I had also volunteered to hand out medals to the finishers.

I was fortunate to see the winners…

under 5 min pace for 13.1 miles (on a hot day.)

and of course, I got to see so many of my local running friends.

a former French student of mine

Soon some other friends who were course marshals joined me.

And we anxiously awaited our friends Sherry and Stan,.

They finally did and I was able to give them their medals.

And then we headed to get our boxed lunches (but skipped the beer tent.)

meeting more friends along the way

Post Race Activities:

And since it was Saturday I met my running friends for our usual brunch date.

And on Sunday, I ran 10 miles and 5 with my friend Barbara who ran this race virtually…

Additional Race Reflections:

The temps were warmer than usual for this time of year. I think I made the right decision not to run the race.

We’ll never know.

Hopefully, next year, I will be healthy enough to train for the race.

The Good:

Lots of race info emailed and on website including runner guide and spectator guide.
Easy packet pick-up. Neat race-related items.
Registration options – cheaper without a shirt
Free bus from the finish to the start.
Many porta potties at the start and finish.
Bag Check. Well organized before and easy pick up at the end
Downhill course (except for first and last 2 miles)
Water and Nuun stops.
GU available at several water stops (even salted caramel)
Great crowd support
Well marked course for each mile
Clocks at 5k, 10k, 15k, 20k
Very cool medal.
Great post race refreshments (boxed lunch)
Immediate electronic race results
PR bell
Free photos
Nearby – no transportation or hotel costs.
Support from friends

The Bad:

The boring, unscenic last 2 miles.
Fat-free chocolate milk (I deserve the real thing after 13.1 miles)
This year, it was very warm!!

The Ugly:

Not being able to run the race (due to recent injury (broken foot)

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes. Yes. ARE did a fantastic job attending to every detail. I hope actually race it again next year.

Next Up:

May 20, 2023

and finally:

May 28, 2023 – I’m running the 10 miler

Happy Running! Did you race this weekend? Do you have a big race coming up? Ever do a half marathon not properly trained? Do you volunteer often at races? Please share.

There is now a new link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

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

I’m linking up also with this link-up:

and co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

April 15, 2023 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 4.9.23-4.16.23: Race Week

Yes, Saturday was one of my favorite local races: Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon.

It has a downhill course so as a result it has been one of my fastest half marathon each year that I’ve run it.

: H2H Half 2019

: H2H 2022

Unfortunately, this year I was laid up with a broken foot for many weeks.

I had the option of losing the money and just volunteering or spectating (since my friends were running it) or just run/walking it slowly.

Not an easy decision.

Last Week:

Sunday – Easter Sunday but unexpectedly I had to go to NYC for work.

Before I left, I had plans to go to the gym… but it was CLOSED. Boo!

So I decided to hike a bit to check out the spring blooms.

ZERO blooms but lots of reflections and mud at Pine hollow Arboretum

Once I arrived in NYC, I made sure that after I checked into my hotel to get out for a walk.

I headed to Central Park where EVERYONE else was and spent hours there (9 miles walking) among the flowers and cherry trees. I was in heaven.

many more pics on FB.

Monday – Since I didn’t set up for my class the day before, I had to take the subway extra early.

After work, I quickly changed my clothes and headed out for a walk/run.

Because I had spent so much time the day before in the park, I decided on the Hudson River Greenway heading toward the World Trade Center.

such a beautiful day and so after my run, I walked back on the High Line.

Tuesday – No time for anything but work as I had to head home by train in the evening.
Wednesday – I hadn’t been to the gym since last Friday but I couldn’t drag myself there early enough so I went at lunch time. (sorry no time for a selfie)

And because I missed my mentor assignment on Monday, I joined them for a run today… this time at a location near my home.

omg… so warm out but the beginner group was up to 5 min. running

I had to rush home since my college friends wanted to ZOOM tonight.

Thursday – Getting more spring-like everyday… or should I say SUMMER-like.

Thursday after work runs have become a thing so I joined my friends at UAlbany this week.

90 degrees with zero energy.. it would be an exaggeration to even call this a run… Stan took the pic of me with my running buddies (check out my shirt)

When I was done, I was supposed to meet my BFF for a walk in the mall (but she had to cancel) so I went out to dinner (and then ice cream) with my friends.

Friday – OK, definitely summer!! I started the day at the gym. I bumped into an old friend and we chatted (no time now for a pic.)

I hosted mah jongg tonight at my house.

Saturday – Volunteering at the H2H Half Marathon.

And no, this time I was sad but I didn’t cry. I am running again and I know I could have done the race, I decided instead to focus on my training for the Brooklyn Half.

My assignment was finish line set-up. So first I helped unload the bus with the checked bags.

And then I stayed around to cheer runners on and give out medals (on a very warm day.).

It was cool to see the winners as well as the many local runners that I knew.

And then since it was Saturday, I went out to brunch with my running friends.

Sunday – Long Run? 10 miles?

My friend Barbara bought my bib and was planning to run the race virtually. Since I planned to do a long run, I said that I would run some miles with her. Fingers crossed that we don’t have to do it in the rain or heat wave.

This Coming Week on the Run–

Monday – Day OFF – GYM, hike, FTC run
Tuesday, GYM, rest day, walk w/BFF
Wednesday – DIL’s 20 week prenatal visit, train to NYC for work, BBG visit, run
Thursday – short run, Broadway show
Friday – rest day, train home
Saturday – Long Run (11 miles)
Sunday – GYM, rest day, hike

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – H2H Half Marathon Race Recap – as a Spectator Again
Friday – 5 Ingredient Dinners

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big races? Ever run a big race undertrained? Do you like to volunteer at races? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

I encourage you to do the same. Grab the graphic, drop your link on the host blogs and play along! Please be sure to always comment on the HOST’s blogs, as well as visit and comment on as many other blogs as you can.

March 21, 2023 by Darlene

TT: Spring Racing Plans

Most of the races that I planned on running this spring were ones that I ran last year and all but one are local.

Of course, I wrote this post before my injury.

03-26-23 – Shamrock Shuffle (5m) – 2022 recap

04-15-23 – Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon – 2022 recap

04-30-23 – Sasha’s Super Hero 5k – 2022 recap

05-07-23 – Tropicool 5k (in Naples, FL) – 2022 recap

05-13-23 – Prospect Mountain Road Race (5.7m up a mountain) – 2022 recap

05-18-23 – CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge (3.5m) – 2022 recap

05-28-23 – Miles on the Mohawk 10 miler – 2022 recap

06-03-23 – Freihofer Run for Women (5k) – 2022 recap

06-18-23 – Valley Cats Father’s Day 5k – 2022 recap

I’ve only added new one (of course, that could change):

05-20-23 – Brooklyn Half Marathon – 2018 recap

Due to a date change, I could not run this race but planned to volunteer:

04-16-23 – Delmar Dash (5m) – 2022 recap

So what are my updated plans? Which races will I run this spring?

Possibly Delmar Dash instead of H2H half marathon.
Optimistically Brooklyn Half Marathon and Miles On the Mohawk
Probably the Freihofer Run for Women 5k and Valley Cats 5k

Time will tell…

Big Goal:

Finger Lakes Half Marathon in September!
NYC Marathon in November!

Happy Running! What races do you have on your spring schedule? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

March 20, 2023 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 3.12.23-3.19.23: NYC Bound

Today I was supposed to run the NYC Half Marathon (for the 2nd time)… with two local running friends.

And also to meet up with some awesome bloggers who ran it as well.

Instead of sitting home brooding, I decided to go to NYC anyway and cheer on my friends.

I cancelled my 2023 race entry and so I now have a non-complimentary guaranteed entry for:

in 2024

I also have to return to NYC for work on Tuesday (and stay there until Friday night).

Last Week:

Sunday – I started the day with a stationary bike ride.

That podcast made to realize that a broken foot is pretty minor compared to what other runners deal with. (https://anothermotherrunner.com/runners-dont-let-cancer-steal-your-joy/)

It was beautiful day – perfect for running or hiking. So I drove to some nearby trails. Unfortunately it was too snowy/icy for someone with a broken foot so I just walked on the roads…

Monday – It was the calm before the storm so I took advantage and went for a lunch walk.

I had to go into the office and it was raining so I walked at the nearby outdoor mall… this sign made me smile..

Tuesday – Nor’easter in March? Sure why not?… even my hair appt. got cancelled.

it snowed ALL day…we got close to a foot of snow

Wednesday – Getting unburied… The snow stopped but it was insanely windy.

I was working remotely (and the power stayed on) and then I went for a long mall walk with my BFF after work.

Thursday – As I did last Thursday, I met some running friends after work at UAlbany.

they ran… I walked (but I admit I did do a little running and it felt good!!)

Friday – The usual remote work from 8-4 followed by an evening of mah jongg. In between I packed for the weekend and bought a new iPhone.
Saturday – I took the train to NYC with my 2 friends who were running for NYC Half Marathon. Our rooms weren’t ready yet so we got a bite to eat and then headed to the expo (so they could pick up their shirts/bibs).

The highlight of the day was meeting up with some bloggers who were in NYC to run the race.

For dinner, my local friends and I took the subway to Brooklyn so they could carb load on pizza.

bagels n lox is a must when in NYC..

Sunday – Race Day as a spectator!

Sherry had to get up early to catch a bus to Brooklyn… I tried to sleep but decided to get up and RUN to catch the elites in Times Square. I was freezing so I ran back to my hotel and dressed in spectator layers.

It was still early so I took the subway to Central Park and strolled among the cherry blossoms, then took the subway back to Times Square to watch the runners and try to spot my friends.

Did I mention that it was COLD and WINDY!!!

Eventually I did spot Sherry and Stan and then Cari (None of them saw me!!)

Then I RAN along 8th to Columbus Circle to meet them when they finished.

We were all too cold to walk back to the hotel so we hopped a subway.

upper left is the winner (1:01!)

After a very long HOT shower, we relaxed and then walked to a restaurant to have an early dinner.

refueling (spectating is hard work LOL)

My original plans were to stay another day and do some things in the city but I changed my train and headed home that evening.

This Coming Week on the Run–

Monday – ortho appt and hopefully a run
Tuesday-Friday – working in Jamaica, Queens

As time allows, some hotel biking, walks, meet-up with friends and hopefully, some runs after work

Saturday – Brunch with running friends, re-scheduled hair appt.

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Spring Racing Plans
Friday – 5 Sources of Mental Clutter

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big races? Do you enjoy spectating races? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

March 11, 2023 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 3.5.23-3.12.23: Status Quo

No Running, No Races.

Working, drinking lots of wine (kidding).

But I did volunteer at a 10k yesterday.

Electric City 10K

Last Week:

Started the week (Sunday) by brunching with my running friends (The storm postponed it from Saturday.)

Then I took my first outdoor walk since I broke my foot. I drove to UAlbany because I knew the path would be clear.

I walked about 2 miles… I had considered doing the whole 3m. loop but I decided to play it safe.

Taught remotely (Tues-Fri)
Rode my stationary bike every day (binge watching Ginny & Georgia)
Went for a few more walks (Mon, Tues, Thurs)

new shoes + Shamrock shake

I walked, they ran but nice to have company

Signed up with a friend for our 3rd year at the Lake George Hike-a-thon

Had Indian food with a former co-worker (I have lots more free time when I can’t run.)
Hosted mah jongg (postponed from last Friday evening).
Volunteered at the 10K that I had signed up to run. It was a very cold snowy morning but so many runners did show up. I worked at packet pick-up. When I was done, I drove to where my friends were running, walked a bit and then went out to brunch with everyone.

This Coming Week on the Run–

The same ~~boring~~ routine (daily walks and stationary bike rides) with an added hair appt and:

Traveling to NYC on Saturday to support my local running friends who are running the NYC Half Marathon, visiting the expo and meeting up with a few bloggers.
Cheering and spectating my first race ever on Sunday (and then returning home a day earlier than planned.)

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – ~~Electric City 10k Race Recap~~ Runners’ Wish List
Friday – Five Running Superstitions

A clean house is a sign of an injured runner | Running humor ...

Happy Running! How is your year of running so far? Training for any big races? Do you enjoy spectating races? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

February 14, 2023 by Darlene

Winter Series Race Recaps

the original shortest distance has been changed to 5.5K

As I have mentioned in previous years, the Hudson Mohawk Runners Club sponsors FREE races throughout the winter for its members. The course is pretty boring but free is free. Usually, I try to run 4 of the races and volunteer at one. That gives you Winter Warrior status and a prize. In 2020-1 of course, the series was cancelled. So I was very excited that last year (2021-2) they decided (with some restrictions) to offer the five races again. Unfortunately, I had to be out of town for the last two dates and and then one was cancelled so I only ran two of them.

This year, COVID restrictions have been removed and I signed up for ALL ~~five~~ 4 races.

Winter Series #1 – 12/11/22

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

There was a choice of a 5.5k race or a 15K.

I had 6 miles on my training plan and so I ran that the day before with two friends

and attended my running group holiday party that night.

You can see why I signed up for the 3.4 miler (not the 15k).

Race Day:

I was happy after a late night and SNOW on the ground that the race did not start until 10 am. I arrived around 9:30 and signed in. I was greeted by so many familiar faces.

I also noticed when I looked at the course map that they changed the start from previous years and now it was a 5.5k or 3.4 miles rather than the advertised 3 miler..

Elevation according to my Garmin:

The temperature had dropped from the night before, the roads were slippery due recent light snowfall. It was also windy and snowing…

My friend was recovering from an injury and asked me if I would run with her… I gladly accepted.

This was not the time or place to do anything crazy. It was just a fun race.

Many of my friends were running the 15k and we all walked to the new start (the 15k racers started in the same location but headed in the opposite direction) and off we went.

The course was just a loop starting and ending at the college campus. In the middle, you were running around a NYS Office campus. There were rolling hills here and there and lots of wind.

I ran almost the whole race with my friend… using intervals, as well as, walking when it was too slippery to run.

we had fun!!

When we hit the last mile… she told me to run ahead… and so I did.

When you crossed the finish line, there was a clock and they handed you a piece of paper to record your time.

My finish time was 48:00. (PW. LOL)

Post Race:

I waited about 2 minutes for my friend to cross and then we went inside to get something warm to eat.

we weren’t even last!!

The best part of these races were the refreshments. I had some delicious soup, some cookies, chips and then some hot chocolate.

There were awards but for 10 year age groups and with only 1st and 2nd place given, I rarely win and wouldn’t have even I ran my best time.

I was so glad that I had done my long run the day before and I could head on home….

Final Stats:

None! I never started my watch! Oops!

Winter Series #2 – 1/1/23

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

This week, there was a choice of a 5.5K race or a half marathon. I had run the half marathon one year and it was deadly (4 loops!!) And besides I had done my 7 mile long run the day before.

Normally the hubby & I go out for New Year’s Eve but this year, we stayed home… I did stay up until midnight and indulge in a little bubbly.

Race Day:

I was happy after a late night that the race did not start until noon!!. I arrived around 11:30 and signed in. I was greeted again by so many familiar faces and more than I had expected. There was a new 5k in Saratoga at the same time so I thought many runners might have gone there instead (Not so!!).

It seems although they advertised the race as 5.5k (the same course as Winter Series #1), it was indeed the same course as last year’s New Year’s Day race (3.5m). And I did remember that it was usually 3.75 miles NOT 3.5!!

Hangover_Half-002-L Elevation according to my Garmin:

Although there was both a 3.5 miler and half marathon, they started at the same time and location.

The course was similar to the last race but started in a different location so it was longer. I made sure this week that I started my Garmin. I don’t care about my pace at all but there are no mile markers so it helps to see which mile you’re in.

As I said, all runners started together. Some of my friends were running the half. Shortly after we started running, we had to either turn left or right. (I hesitated but got it right this year.)

I had planned to run/walk intervals with my running friends. But after a mile, I was just too cold to stick with them. It was very windy (a light jacket and gloves would have helped).

So I left them and ran on my own. I did my best to run at a nice even pace but it felt harder and harder to speed up… so I didn’t. It seemed like runners were passing me by and those half marathoners sped by at incredible speeds (some even twice!!)

Since I wasn’t running that fast, I didn’t need to stop for water but still had to walk a few times. Toward the end, I did pass a few runners… but it was too little, too late.

Finally, the finish was in sight, I gave it all I had. As I mentioned above, there was a clock and they called out times but you recorded your own time on a piece of paper. Mine was 42:03 (but 41.41 according to my Garmin).

And yes, it was 3.75 miles!!

I waited for some friends and took their finish line pics.

This guy always races in a tuxedo each year … isn’t he cute?

Post Race:

We all went in to get something to eat. There was the usual delicious soup, lots of bagged snacks and coffee and hot cocoa. That hot soup really hit the spot!!

There were also the awards… Not a chance even I raced this race with 10 year groups and only 1st and 2nd places.

Final Stats:

Splits:

Initially, I was a little disappointed with how slow I was running compared to a year ago.

2022 – 6 minutes faster plus no walks

But then I remembered that I had run 7 miles the day before this year and last year, I added on 7 extra miles AFTER the race.

It’s all good!! I had fun and that’s the most important part of running.

Winter Series #3 – 1/15/23

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

This week, there were 3 choices: 5.5K, 10k or 25K.

My half marathon plan had me scheduled for 9 miles. I was lucky to a have a friend join me on the cold icy roads the day before

That meant that like the previous races, I would choose the shortest distance and run/walk it for fun.

Race Day:

It was cold and windy… In fact the feels like temps were around 10 degrees.

At least I dressed warmer than last time.

I arrived early enough to get parking for this 10am race. I was surprised that it didn’t seem as crowded as previous ones. Perhaps it was because it was a 3 day holiday weekend.

I chatted with all the runners that I knew and soon it was time to head outside.

Brrr…

All three races started in the same location (by the tennis courts). However, it was a different location than the first in the series. I was wondering whether or not, it would be a 5.5k or shorter or even longer.

Since it was long walk to get to the start, my friend Heidi and I started running right away

always look goofy when you see a camera

and I ran her 1:1 intervals.

It was cold and windy but we chatted to keep our minds off the weather.

Finish time didn’t matter. I didn’t even bring a watch. But I was secretly hoping that Heidi would have a faster finish time than the previous 5.5k.

I ran/walked the whole race with her until the last 3/4 of mile when I took off on my own.

I waited at the finish line for Heidi.

I was thrilled that we were both 2 minutes faster that our first 5.5k race.

Post Race:

We rushed inside to get warm and have some hot soup and snacks.

I had to go to work so we didn’t stick around for the awards.

Final Stats:

None!!

I think I finished somewhere around 46 minutes (just beating the 10k winner.)

Winter Series #4 – 1/29/23

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Three choices again but this week: ~~5.5K~~ 3.75m, 15K or 30K.

11 miles done the previous day so I definitely planned on run/walking the shortest distance.

Race Day:

As always, I try to arrive early to get parking and have time to chat with my friends.

Most of my racing friends (including Karen to my right) were running the 15k. I said that I would wait after my race to cheer them on.

All the runners started together. I told my friend Heidi that I would do her 1:1 intervals with her until mile 3.

one glove? I think I was getting ready to take the next pic.

Eventually Chris decided to go slower and did her own thing.

It was very chilly when running INTO the wind but actually a lovely day to run. Today I found it hard to run at Heidi’s pace so I did run ahead but waited for her on the walk intervals. I also think it helped her to pick up the pace on her runs. (and she had a 4 min PR!!)

There were a couple of ladies who we were leap frogging with. I’m pretty sure we did the same at the last 3 races. They ran slow but never walked. We had a discussion about intervals… not sure they were convinced they worked.

Eventually, we got to the mile 3 point and I took off. Mind you, I thought it was 5.5k or 3.4 miles. And it took me forever. Probably because I was too tired to run fast.

But actually, it was 3.8 miles. They changed the race to the January 1 course.

I crossed around 48:XX.

Then I waited at the finish line for my friends:

Post Race:

We all went inside for some refreshments: chili, bread, baked goods, hot cocoa, fruit, etc.

required post race pic (I’m not preggo, that’s my gloves in my front pocket)

I hung around for a long time chatting with racing friends and of course, discussing our racing plans for the year.

Final Stats:

None!

I did not wear a watch.

Winter Series #5 – 2/12/23

I had planned to run this race but I changed the dates of my February vacation in Florida so I was unable.

Additional Race Reflections:

I feel very fortunate to have this opportunity. The races are fun but if you want to take them seriously, you can. And with the longer distances offered, you could use them as training runs for a half or full marathon.

And then there’s the camaraderie of the local runners and free food!

Win Win for the HMRRC Winter Series!

Positives:

Ample parking.
Well marked course.
FREE if you are a member of HMRRC. $5 if not
Indoor restrooms
Warm place to congregate before and after
Several distances to choose from.
Many familiar faces.
Awards – gift certificate for Bountiful Bread
Post race refreshments – delicious soup, snacks, cookies, hot chocolate, coffee and more
Free Photos

Negatives:

Self reported finish times (sometimes I forget to look at the clock or start my watch)
10 year age group awards and only 2 deep.
Usually windy.
Boring course.
Several loops if running more than 3 miles.

Would I recommend these races?

Absolutely. Great way to stay active during the cold winter months.

Next Up:

Feb. 19, 2023

Happy Running! Have you run any races in 2023 yet? Any races on your schedule? How do you stay motivated during the cold weather? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

February 7, 2023 by Darlene

NYC Marathon 2023: Yay or Nay?

I have a decision to make…

NAY:

1.Expensive.

Not only the race entry fee but transportation to and meals and hotels in NYC.

2.Work and Training.

I could be traveling for work which would make week day runs difficult to schedule.

3.Missing Shorter Races in the Fall.

I love to race. In our area, there are so many races in the fall (including our group race-cation.) And those long marathon training runs must be done somehow.

4.Solo Experience.

At the moment, I do not have any local running friends doing this race. Not sure how much fun it will be alone (before and after).

5.Possible Post-Race Aches/Pains.

Lower back pain? Recurrence of that awful neuroma pain?? Other pains? Will it affect future races?

YAY:

1.Guranteed Entry.

Yes, I do and I know many runners who do not and would love to run it. And I may not have the chance again.

With a 2:27 or below finish time on a NYRR race in 2022, I am guaranteed an entry.

Fred LeBow HM – just made it on this HILLY course

2.NYC!!

It’s my favorite city (next to Paris). If I run another marathon, I can’t think of another one I would like to run.

3. Weather.

Your longest runs are in the fall (not summer or winter). And the race is at the beginning of November. The odds are in favor for perfect running weather.

4.Support.

Crowds everywhere.. the entire 26.2 miles for ALL runners!

maybe lucky enough for friends to travel down to cheer me on

5.CARPE DIEM!

Because I can. Who knows what the future will bring?

Will I run this race again?

Happy Running! So what is your opinion? Will you by chance be entering the lottery or able to run this race? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

December 13, 2022 by Darlene

Ted Corbitt 15k Race Recap

Ted Corbitt 15k Classic - New York City, NY - 12/3/2022 - My BEST Runs - Worlds Best Road Races

I signed up for the Ted Corbitt 15K for several reasons:

I love NYC.
I love running in Central Park.
I hadn’t run a race there since April 2022.
I had enough pts for a free hotel room.
I had thought my NYC BRFs Cari and Elizabeth may be running it too or at least we could meet up during the weekend.
It kept me doing weekend long runs during the cold temps of upstate NY.
A chance to see NYC decorated for the holidays.
I had run a half marathon several weeks before (so I was sorta trained.)
15k is one of my favorite distances (I usually die at this point in a half.)
No Harlem Hill for this race (just Cat 2x and 3 sisters).

Training:

As I mentioned above, I had run a half marathon two weeks earlier. I love to sign up for winter races because it motivates me to keep doing those long runs in the cold weather. (And this year, the temps were COLD!!)

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. But I do try to do those weekday short runs (Tues, Wed, Thurs this week).

and get in some longer runs on the weekend..

: 2022

: 9 m.

I knew about the HILLS that would taunt me during the race. I have run in this park and I ran the Shape Half Marathon, Fred LeBow Half twice, Central Park Half and many other shorter races.

: Shape Half ’17

: Fred Lebow Half ’22

: Central Park Half ’22

: France Run 8k

: Grete’s Great Gallop 10K

: Poland Springs 10k

: Shape 5.8 mile loop

In case you have never heard of Ted Corbitt. He was the first president of New York Road Runners, the first African American to compete in the Olympic marathon, and an ultramarathon pioneer who ran more than 200,000 miles in his lifetime.

I’ve always wanted to run this race.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

I took the train to NYC on Saturday morning. I arrived at 11am and my hotel check-in time was 3 pm but luckily my room was ready. So I checked into my hotel on 39th St. and grabbed some lunch.

bagels and lox is a must in NYC!!

Then I headed to Run Center to pick up my bib and race shirt.

not an exciting design but it is comfy

Though it was chilly, it was sunny and a perfect day to stroll Manhattan. Though rain was predicted for Saturday, I hoped they were wrong. Just in case, I tried to see as many of the decorations as I could in one day!!

I started in Central Park… I couldn’t believe how pretty it was with the leaves STILL on the trees…

Then I walked down 6th Avenue, onto Rockefeller Center, then to Bryant Park and finally to 34th Street for a visit to the Refinery.

On my bucket list was to see the holiday lights at Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. So from 34th St, I took a subway to Brooklyn where I met up with a group for a walking tour.

The guide was great (and I was the only American on the tour.)

.The houses were HUGE and the lights way over the top!!

Afterward, I grabbed some pizza for dinner and took the subway back to Manhattan.

Still too early to go to bed so I continued my holiday in NYC experience. I walked back to Rockefeller Center and then watched the light show at Saks.

Eventually I returned to my hotel in order to plan my race day. So much for resting the legs the day before a race. 12 miles walked!!

I have not run many winter races so it was a challenge to decide on what to wear to keep warm but not too warm for 9.3 miles. And what to wear if it rains???

Luckily I still had gloves, DIY arm warmers to add to my outfit and there would be bag check so I could have a jacket and umbrella for after the race if it were raining.

Race Day:

I brought my usual race breakfast of oatmeal and coffee with me and got up around 6:00 am. It was warmer than expected (high 40s) but RAINING so I changed to a lighter shirt and cap (instead of a beanie), added a throwaway shirt, DIY arm sleeves, grabbed a rain poncho and called an Uber. My hotel was on West 39th and the start was near E. 66th. However, bag check was on East 72nd. I could have run there but not in this weather. I also wasn’t sure of how often the subway ran. The Uber was just so easy (though $$$).

As I did in my previous Central Park races, I got there too early… I had hoped to meet up with Cari at bag check or worse case in my start corral. Cari had decided to skip bag check. But to stay warm and dry,, I hid out in the park restroom…. I waited there until the last moment (I even met the runner who was singing the national anthem.)

I kept on my rain poncho but had to surrender my umbrella. Well, by now, the bag check line was MILES long and getting longer by the moment (due to a security check). It moved quickly and I wasn’t worried since although there were almost 5000 runners, the race was chip-timed.

It was quite a LONG walk to the start and I had to walk to corral I. By the time I got near, the national anthem was finishing up and Meb was giving a speech about Ted Corbitt and this race.

Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to meet up with Cari but I eventually got to my corral in plenty of time for my corral’s start.

I’ll do my best to recap the race below. (Warning: it’ll be long…)

The Race Plan:

Do not get injured!! (You need to be healthy to train for the Florida half in February!) And most importantly, have fun!!

I would likely do a lot of walking… because there would be umpteen hills!! (Several Cats and many other annoying smaller ones.)

I planned to stop and walk briefly at every water stop (so I wouldn’t get dehydrated even in the rain) and to stop and walk longer to eat a gel at every other water stop.

My estimated finish time would be around 1:45 (far from my 1:30 PR at this distance).

Anyway, here’s how the race went:

2022 Course Map:

Course Description:

The race will begin on East Drive near East 66th Street and will cover almost two full laps on the lower loop in Central Park.

From the start, runners will proceed north on East Drive up to the 102nd Street Cross Drive, and will then take a left turn to follow the Cross Drive toward West Drive. Turning left onto West Drive, runners will head south, continuing past Tavern on the Green toward mile 5 and what was the start line on East Drive.

Proceeding along the southern end of the park, runners will repeat the first loop up East Drive, onto the 102nd Street Cross Drive, and turning onto West Drive. As runners approach the 72nd Street Transverse from West Drive, they will turn left toward the finish line.

Check out this elevation:

and according to my Garmin:

Miles 1-3:

It took a LONG 10 or so minutes to get to the start line.

It was slow going at first due to the crowd but soon we heading for a downhill stretch. Of course, I tried to stay slow and it felt slow .

The first hill was Cat Hill and it was the steepest. I ran up most of it thinking that it wasn’t so bad (my opinion changed by the second time around)

(In case you’ve never run in Central Park, it’s called Cat Hill because there is a statue of a cat staring down at you.)

Once I started running, I realized that I was indeed perfectly dressed. In fact during the 2nd mile, I decided to take off my throw-away shirt. But I didn’t throw it away, I tied it around my waist and kept it that way the entire race.

There were many more water stops than necessary (or what I am used to). Almost one every mile. I tried to only stop at every other one.

I always tried to pick up speed on the downhills but they were short-lived as there were always smaller hills – the Sisters, etc. According to Strava, each hill has a name.

And the rain continued… in fact it rained harder and harder, and the puddles got bigger and more numerous. (I was amazed at NO blisters and NO chafing.)

Around 90th St. & the Reservoir, we passed the statue of Fred Lebow.

We started looping around 102nd and heading to the West side. The best thing about this race (compared to Fred LeBow HM was that the course did NOT include Harlem Hill (the steepest and longest in the park.)

Since I had eaten breakfast many hours ago, I was getting hungry, I ate a GU slowly around mile 3.5 (and this was the only one I ate during the race.)

There were timing clocks at every mile. I wasn’t sure how much time had elapsed before I crossed the start line so they didn’t help much. My watch was buried under my shirt. But I really didn’t care what my finish time was anyway. (I had zero age group award expectations. NYC runners are fast!)

I just continued to run and as fast as I could and walk as often as I felt tired or there were hills (As usual, it was pretty often).

Miles 4-6:

We were still on the West side and soon we passed the finish line. Of course, I think the speedy runners were already turning in.

But there were still 5 more miles to go.

what the park looked like the day before

Around mile 4.5 we starting turning and heading toward the East side. And a little past mile 5 we were passing the start and now the course would repeat itself.

It never stopped raining. My feet started to ache (no surprise there). Of course Cat hill seemed harder the second time around as did the other smaller hills. I waved again to Fred and continued to stop at every other water stop.

The volunteers were so numerous and those cheering were awesome. Imagine spending hours in the pouring rain. I wouldn’t be happy to be out there.

Miles 7-9.4:

Finally just past mile 7, we began turning and heading back to the East side. To me, that signaled that the end was near… although it didn’t feel like it.

It was a long time getting to that Mile 9 sign!!

But I finally turned toward the finish line and I ran as fast as I could…. through those huge puddles!!

Photo by Da Ping Luo for NYRR – I’m sure Meb was not still there when I crossed the finish line

Post Race Activities:

I immediately got my medal (this was the FIRST year that medals were given out for this race), grabbed a bag of pretzels and posed for a quick pic. or two!

It was still raining HARD so I headed to bag check to get my rain jacket and umbrella. I had also put some dry clothes in that bag but unfortunately, the bag was NOT really very waterproof and everything was soaked.

I still hadn’t met up with Cari but I texted her that I would be waiting in that same rest room.

so don’t all runners do restroom selfies?

We walked out of the park together in the RAIN. (I gave her my rain poncho since I had an umbrella.)

The rain definitely interfered with my plans to hang out with Cari and another friend, Elizabeth.

Cari headed home by bus and I started walking back to my hotel. Around 59th St, I changed my mind and hopped the subway.

After a LONG HOT shower, I checked out of my hotel, had lunch and then headed home on an earlier train.

I was so glad that I had got in All.The.Miles the day before.

Additional Race Reflections:

Running in the rain may not be exactly fun. I minded more about not enjoying the pre and post-race experience.

But it was a lot better than racing into a cold WIND.

I was happy with my finish time. Yes it was like 5 minutes slower than my last 15K but it was not a PW and faster than I expected on that course and in those weather conditions.

Enough whining…I am so grateful to be able to visit NYC and run a race. And a race that honored such an important figure in NYC racing.

I am unbelievably happy that after the race, my legs/feet felt fine.. no pain anywhere (always a good thing at my age.)

All in all, I thought this was a great race.

The Good:

Easy packet pick-up at Run Center and also race morning near the start).
Bag Check. Easy pick up at the end.
Water at almost EVERY mile. Gatorade at the last few.
Many porta-potties along the course in addition to real CP bathrooms
Well marked course.
Timing Clock at every mile.
No Harlem Hill.
Great crowd support even in the rain.
Los of volunteers as course marshals and at water stops (and it was miserable out!!)
Very cool medal.
Immediate results.
Blogger meet-up with Cari
No Blisters.