Yes. Heat, humidity to start the week but then we got a break…
Running continued but with an added 5k thrown into the mix.
Last Week:
Sunday – Boating Sunday.
An oppressively hot day. Luckily I had lake breezes and shade (and no rain.)
Monday – It was #nevermissamonday but I stayed in bed instead of running. No regrets.
I had the day off (as I do every other Monday) and a running friend suggested a day at Emerald Lake in VT. So I grabbed my SUP and we had a wonderful time. A long drive but so worth it. (And again missed the rain.)
Tuesday – Back to work and I did drag myself out of bed early to get my run done. But Holy Humidity!!!
It warmed up but I think the humidity decreased. Anyway, it felt that way during my post-work walk with a friend.
Wednesday – Day 2 of the early morning runs. Whoa! About 10 degrees cooler than the previous morning! I’ll take it.
always taking different neighborhood routes and always looking for flowers…
I met my friend again for a post-work walk (but we went in the opposite direction.)
Thursday – Rest day because I had a trail run scheduled for the evening. As usual, I met my running friends and we walked, chatted and had a blast.
love those cloud formations
Friday – Normally Friday is my rest day but since I had a race on Sunday, I would be taking Saturday off (which is ordinarily my long run day.)
I had more time so I drove for my early morning run.
why yes, I do match everything
Saturday – Long Run Saturday for everyone else but for me, it was just a walk and brunch.
long runs, short runs, walkers and bikers – all on the rail trail supporting each other… so fortunate to be part of this group. No one ever has to be alone!!
Sunday – Race Day! I ran the Run for the Roses 5k for the 2nd time. I met up with old friends and somewhat conquered the hills in Grafton Lake State Park.. (Recap on Tuesday…)
Sunday in the summer is for boating so I plan to join my hubby up at the lake for the rest of the day.
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.
Happy Running! How is your running going? Any in-person races run or planned? Has the weather been warm where you live? Please share.
If you follow my blog, you know that I often got sent to NYC for work.
Usually, I just tried to squeeze in a run along the East River, along the Hudson River or in Central Park.
NYC – East River
NYC – Hudson River
NYC – CP
Well several years ago, I found a race!!!!
Apparently during the summer months on alternating Wednesdays at 7:10 pm, there is a cheap ($7.50 – if you sign up for the whole series, each race costs only $5) 5k in Prospect Park, Brooklyn. These races are organized by the Prospect Park Track Club (PPTC).
I ran one 5k in July 2017 and had a great time.
Age group award and meeting “Al Goldstein”
I was excited that when they were scheduled again in 2018, two of the 5k races coincided with the dates that I would be working in NYC. I ran both of them.
In 2019, I was only in NYC to run one of this 5K racing series.
met someone from my hometown
And in 2020 and 2021…. there were no NYC work trips (due to COVID).
My trips to NYC this year are limited so I was very fortunate to be in NYC on a Wednesday when one these 5ks was happening.
You know I can’t resist signing up for a race. Besides, I needed to run 3 miles anyway.
Pre-Race Preparations and Activities:
This race was a spur of the moment decision. I mean I’d run a 4 mile race two days before
and then hiked up a mountain the day before.
Yes, I am crazy!!
Obviously, this was just for fun and an opportunity to run in Prospect Park with other runners..
Race Day:
I arrived in NYC around 11 am, checked into my hotel, and headed by subway to Queens to set up for my job the next day. I had some lunch and then headed back to Manhattan to change into running clothes.
The race didn’t start until 7:10 pm so I still had time to kill. I decided to visit the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens since it was across the street from the park where the race would be held.
I spent several hours wandering around the gardens and loved every minute. The gardens closed at 6pm so I headed over to the Prospect Park.
Luckily there were signs and I followed them to LeFrak Center at Lakeside (where the bib pick up was). I had a scenic walk through the park. I passed the race start and end.
As I got closer, there were many signs pointing you in the right direction.
I was pretty early and it wasn’t crowded at all.
It was strange to be at a race where I didn’t know a soul. But there were real restrooms, water and tables in the shade so I just hung out.
Eventually runners started arriving. There were probably close to 500.
Soon it was time for everyone to walk down to the start.
The photographer caught me on the way.
There were no corrals so I just pushed into the crowd.
The important thing to note about this race was that it was HOT!!!!!!!!!!! Like 90 degrees!!
I was familiar with the course. I had a bottle of water before the race and there was usually one water stop at mile 2 and then water at the finish.
Right before the start of the race, they announced that “one of their water stations has gone missing and if anyone’d seen or happened upon their water, please let them know or give it back!”
What!? That of course made me nervous even though I wasn’t planning to “race” it. It was extremely warm out… No breeze and humid, as well.
As I mentioned above, I had run this course several times in the past. On the whole, although it was not an easy course, I always did fairly well and since it attracts a younger crowd, I usually won my age group.
Al Goldstein 5Ks:
2017 – 27:52
2018 – 28:24, 28:02
2019 – 28:48
Same course:
Building Brooklyn 5k: 2019 – 28:05
Brooklyn Ice Cream Social 5k: 2018 – 27:30
However, in 2022 on a very hot evening, anything could happen but I was NOT expecting any blazing speed.
I knew about the big LONG hill during mile 1 as well as some rolling hills the last mile.
I also remembered that there were usually runners of all ages who all looked like “runners” and the finish times were incredibly fast. A little intimidating. but it is what it is. What else was there to do on a nice warm evening in NYC??
So here’s how it went down:
Mile 1:
starting my Garmin lol
and off I go…
I started running the first mile slowly. My legs felt like lead and I was already sweating.
don’t I look happy?
And then I got to the hill, I tried to run up it but it definitely wasn’t happening. I did my best…
Mile 2:
Mile 2 was better but I was so hot AND thirsty.
Every who passed me by looked they had gone swimming. Even I was dripping wet from the humidity.
And so I ran then I walked and ran and then walked. I hoped that I was running more than walking but I wasn’t sure. And when I was running, I suppose I was running fast…
Mile 3-3.1:
By the end of mile 3, I was crashing. I tried to finish strong but I just had to walk. And walk again.
Hooray! I see that finish line!
I did not have enough energy to sprint and finished over 29 minutes. My slowest 5k this year.
But under the those miserable conditions, I was not disappointed in the least.
Post Race Activities:
I was a little dizzy and went directly to get water and sit down.
We did hear ambulances. Apparently someone went down during the race. (Unfortunately, I found out later on FB that the runner DIED!!! More info here.)
They quickly posted the results. I did win my age group (as I was the only one in my age group. LOL)
Additional Race Reflections:
Yes, it was a course PW.
But you can’t control the weather. And I’m happy that I ventured out to Brooklyn.
Unfortunately when I think back to this race, I will be thinking of the runner who died. He was only a few years older than I was, a NYRR coach who had completed 19 marathons and won his age group at the previous Al Goldstein 5k. But as some runners mentioned… he died doing something he loved. Still, very sad 😦
Positives:
Price – $7.50
Vaccination required for all runners.
Bag check
Bathrooms (real ones!)
Water before and after the race
Decent turnout (450 runners)
Chip Timing
Marker at each mile
5 year Age group awards ceremony after the race
Results immediately emailed to you
MANY free photos
Negatives:
Travel time to Brooklyn
Evening Race
Hills
NO WATER stops
Death of a runner
Would I recommend this race?
Yes. Yes. It’s a nice local race. It was definitely worth $7.50. And if I am ever in NYC at the same time as one of PPTC’s races, I plan to sign up again.
Final Stats:
Splits:
I was not kidding when I said I walked most of this race!! No regrets!
Next Up:
Possibly another July 5k and definitely a 5k in August before the THREE fall half marathons arrive.
Happy Running! Ever run a race while you are traveling for work? Do you try to improve your times on the same course? How does the heat affect your finish times? Please share.
Since it’s Tuesday, I’m joining the link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner)
Many of my weekend running friends used to run this race every year.
if you read my weekly run downs, you may recognize a few of these runners
I had never joined them because it was always hot, the race is crowded and I’d prefer to head up to the lake early.
Then last year, I decided to do the race. And I loved it
So I signed up again.
I was hoping that some of my running friends would sign up too but if not, I knew there would be many others there whom I knew.
Then I had to break it to my hubby as it would interfere with our lake plans.
pic from 2018
But we went up on the lake on Sunday (the day before) so he was cool with me racing. (Plus our boat was on the DL.)
Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:
To save time on race day, my friend, Deirdre, picked up my race packet at Fleet Feet on Friday.
Since the race was on a Monday, I was still able to get my long run done on Saturday.
As I mentioned above, Sunday was a rest day with lots of sun and relaxing on the lake.
The weather for race day seemed great – not as cool as the year before but also not as warm as it could have been this time of year.
As I’ve said in most of race recaps, my goal in racing these days is to do my best but more importantly, have fun and not get injured.
.Race Day:
I ate my usual oatmeal and coffee breakfast and wore a tank and skirt (while trying to look as patriotic as possible)
I won the race cap in a raffle
Last year, I carpooled with Heidi and she knew exactly where to park. I was thrilled when she again offered to meet me, Deirdre, Denise and drive us. We all met at Leah’s Cakery at 8am (which was only a few miles from the race.)
We easily found parking on the street and walked toward the start…
We passed the finish line and made plans to meet there after the race.
Then of course, we took our obligatory pre-race photos.
And then we mozied on down to the start area. It was cool to see how creatively everyone was dressed for this July 4th holiday race.
I was happy to see so many people racing… many more than last year (although I think they still offered a virtual option.)
more friends!
No more staggered starts. Everyone just lined up together. There was so much excitement in the air. Live racing rocks!!
There was a flag from Ground Zero and a color guard in addition to the national anthem.
Heidi, Deirdre and Denise (who was walking) headed toward the back. I stayed toward the front and chatted with some runners whom I knew.
Though I had run this race the year before, the only thing I remembered was that there was a BIG hill during mile 4.
course map
elevation according to my Garmin
Mile 1:
As I mentioned, this was a crowded race. The bottleneck at the beginning slowed me down which was probably a good thing as I always start out too fast.
We began running down Broadway which was a slight downhill but eventually we did hit a hill before we turned left and ran past Congress Park. I already felt the need to walk… I started thinking that this wasn’t going to be a good race…
And it seemed like everyone was passing me by but when I glanced at my watch, it showed that my pace was under 9 minutes!! WTH?
Mile 2:
I was surrounded by runners the whole race. Several times I bumped into runners or they bumped into me. Maybe I forgot what it was like to run a big race.
As we ran through neighborhoods, spectators enthusiastically cheered us on. There were musicians or bands throughout out. I think almost 20 (quite a few for a 4 mile race.)
The best part was that there were many folks spraying the runners with water as well as sprinklers set up. I made sure that I ran through each one. It was very sunny and felt much warmer than I thought it would be.
There was a water stop during this mile. I did stop and I was happy that they had cups of water. (Last year due to Covid, they gave out bottles)
something happened to the photographer and there were no photos this year so I am posting last year’s.
I did feel a little stronger during this mile (but that was short-lived.)
Mile 3:
We ran into a few rolling hills during this mile but none too bad. As I mentioned above, there were many different groups playing music. That was a nice distraction.
Saratoga is such a pretty town. I enjoyed running through its streets.
But I started tiring and decided to just walk if I need to.
I was surprised that there was a second water stop since the race was only 4 miles. I did appreciate it and I stopped again.
In addition to the official water stops, there seemed to be many spectators giving out bottles of water. I did not stop at any of those since I didn’t want to carry a bottle of water or waste it.
Mile 4:
I was expecting the steep hill in the last mile. And it did not disappoint. I was wishfully thinking that I could run up the whole thing.
Nope! I had to walk many times.
The best part was the ice pop that was handed out. I ate one as I continued to run/walk up the hill very slowly.
Finally I spotted that big American flag which meant we were approaching the finish line.
I sprinted as fast as I could at this point. I saw 36:xx on the clock as I crossed the finish line and was pleasantly surprised. I knew I was running slower and walked more than the previous year but my time was not as slow as I thought.
Post Race:
I immediately went to grab a bottle of water. The only refreshments were bananas and so I grabbed one. I also spotted a Ben n Jerry’s stand and got a cup of ice cream (Oops it was for parents and kids who had run the kids race…).
I really enjoyed watching so many of the runners finish, especially those that I knew. I also got to admire all the patriotic outfits.
Eventually all my friends finished and they did great.
I checked the website to see if I won an age group award. Last year, I came in 4th. I was surprised that I came in 2nd (even with a slower time this year.)
So we all hung around longer so I could get my award.
We decided to stay in Saratoga to have brunch. We had hoped that at this point, all the runners would have left and the restaurants wouldn’t be so crowded.
Nope, they were all full and we had to put our name on a waiting list in two places before we found a table in a third outdoor restaurant.
celebratory mimosas!!!
Additional Race Reflections:
I didn’t expect to enjoy this race as much as I did. I also didn’t think I could run as well as I did.
I felt that I could have done better if I didn’t walk as much (but I always say that AFTER the race.)
But probably the most important factor was running the race with friends and the feeling of normalcy on this national holiday!
Positives:
Ample parking (parking garage and street parking)
Well marked course.
Lots of familiar faces.
Interesting course.
Friendly volunteers.
Music entertainment along the course.
Enthusiastic spectators (sprinklers and ice pops)
Easy and organized packet pick-up on Fri. and race day.
Real restrooms before and after and ample number of port-potties
Two water stops for a 4 mile race.
Additional unofficial water tables.
Awards (3 deep) for 5 year age group awards
Photo Booth
Negatives:
Post-race refreshments (just bananas)
Steep hill at mile 4
No race photos
Would I recommend this race?
Yes. I loved it. I hope that I can make it work and run it again next year.
Final Stats:
Last year’s race was a big PR for me – 36:26.
As you can see below, I’m still the Queen of the Positive Splits.
a whole lotta walking going on…
Next Up:
Possibly another July 5k and definitely a 5k in August before the THREE fall half marathons arrive.
Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).
There was a race and a hike at the beginning of the week and then I traveled to NYC and spent three days there. This may have been my last time working in NYC (but who knows??) so I tried to make the most of it.
Last Week:
Sunday – Boating Sunday!
The weather was absolutely perfect and we invited my stepson, his wife and their two friends out on the lake.
we drove around more than usual to show off our favorite spots…
Unfortunately, the outing got cut short as something was malfunctioning in the boat. Hopefully it will be a quick fix and we’ll be back out there next weekend.
Monday – Race Day – Firecracker 4. It was 2nd time running this holiday race. And I again had a blast.
I had convinced more of my friends to do the race with me. The weather was great. I also came in 2nd in my age group and we celebrated with brunch and mimosas after.
Tuesday – Lake George Hike-a-thon 2022. I signed up last year with my friend Meg and we had such a good time that I decided to take the day of and do it again.
I signed us up for a longer and more challenging hike (Thomas Mountain).
Unfortunately it rained… well, it poured.
not much of a view and we got very wet… still had fun!
After our 3 mile hike in the rain, we had lunch at our marina and then decided to head home rather than hiking more.
Wednesday – Early morning train to NYC, hotel check-in and then off by subway to Queens. It was still early enough when I returned to Manhattan to venture somewhere for a run. The question was where to? So many options in NYC…
You know me. It’s hard to resist a race and there was a 5k in Brooklyn at 7:10 pm.
90 degrees (and 450 runners finished) so lots of walking but when you are the only one in your AG, you win!
Thursday – A long day of work but the reward at the end of the day was running with friends.
and ice cream!!
Friday – Another long work day and train home!! Rest Day! And no race scheduled for the next day!!
After work, it was raining but I took a leisurely stroll anyway
always something interesting to see in Manhattan
And then took the train home!
the perks of the late train home
Saturday – Long Run Saturday!
Six miles was on my plan but Sherry wanted to run 9 so I ran intervals with her and then met all my other running friends for brunch.
some friends ran longer, some shorter and some even walked…
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.
Happy Running! How is your running going? Any in-person races run or planned? Do anything fun for July 4th? Please share.
The race begins at SUNY Adirondack, works its way to the Warren County Bike path and ends at Battle Field Park in Lake George. Rolling course with a long down hill finish.
This is the third year for this 15k race. It replaced one of my favorite races – Adirondack Distance Run (10 miler). That was the one that started in Lake George Village and ended in a park on the lake next to the marina where we keep our boat.
2017
2016
2014
I was very disappointed that they cancelled this race. (After 40 years, they decided that it was dangerous to run on the road.)
My friend Sue and I have had many running adventures together:
Paris 8K 2017
Since Sue was the organizer of this new race, I felt that I should at least run it the first year. It was hard especially the first 5k but I actually enjoyed it so I signed up again in 2018 and 2019.
Then the Pandemic came and the race was cancelled in 2020 and 2021.
It was revived this year and of course, I couldn’t resist signing up.
Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:
My weekend long run preparation for this race wasn’t great (5k, 7 miles, 5k +5ish more) but I felt somewhat prepared to give it my best shot. I like the 15k distance. It’s always when I am running a half marathon where I wish it were over.
Due to the weather and work, I front loaded my short weekday (3 mile) runs which gave me two rest days in a row before the race.
The biggest challenge would be those hills. I knew that it was hilly. And we all know that I do not train on hills. I expected that there would be walking on those hills. And I am totally ok with walking during races.
from my Garmin
The weather was quite comfortable all week but then it started heating up toward the end of the week. Just in time for this race!! 90 degree temps predicted…
I haven’t run very many 15ks. My surprise PR was from the Stockade-athon in 2018 (1:30:15). I ran today’s race in 2018 and 2019 and finished at 1:33:54 and 1:32:38 respectively. But I recently finished at FLAT 10 miler at 1:43:56 so I was not expecting much from this HILLY course. And I had no goals besides having fun and finishing unhurt.
There were supposed to be 4 water stops along the route: one at mile 2 (which served runners on the way in and out) and then along the bike path at approximately miles 4.2, 6.2 and 8. I would be stopping at each one and hoped that this would be enough (since I never carry my own water.)
So what to wear? The usual. Tank and skirt.
I hesitated on the compression socks due to the heat but because of the hills, I kept them on.
Race Day:
The race started at 7:30 am. (Hooray for finally an early start!) I got up at 5 am and had oatmeal/coffee and then left my house around 5:45 am since I had over an hour drive.
The race began at a community college so there were real bathrooms and comfortable places to hang out before the race.
None of my close running friends were running the race but I was surprised at how many runners I did know. I hung out with them until the race began.
not a fan of white shirts but at least it was gender-specific and tech fabric.
I asked my friend, the RD, about bag check. She replied that there was none. I was planning like last time to bring a towel, dry shirt and flip flops to change into after the race. Boo!
Everyone was looking around to find someone who was driving to start to give a bag to. I wound up giving mine to the guy in charge of the finish line timing.
We eventually all headed to the start. Again, it was just a line in the parking lot. No chip timing for this race.
I lined up with some friends but not as close to the start as I should have.
So here’s how the race went: (The course photos are mostly courtesy D. Yeaton 2019)
Miles 1-3:
I knew what the course was like. As I mentioned, I expected hills. I mean, it’s the Adirondacks so it is hilly everywhere. We left the college and ran on a main road for a while. And it was warm out already. I knew that it wasn’t going to be a good day when I had to walk during the FIRST mile!
Soon we turned into a neighborhood. One of the volunteers we passed said “Enjoy the roller coaster!” Yup, huge hills…up and down. Just past the water stop at mile 2.5, you turned around and repeated those crazy hills.
I started slowly and tried to run up them. After the first hill, I realized that that was a mistake, I just ran/walked up them. No sense killing my legs. I ran most of the race around the same runners. Playing leap frog with them. They ran slowly and passed me on the hills and I got closer to them on the downhill and sometimes even passed them.
Miles 4-6:
After the first 5K, we headed toward the bike path. The steep hills disappeared but it was a steady incline. I kept hoping for a downhill but it never happened (until mile 7). At least, most of the path was shady. And with the temps rising, that was a good thing!!
I stopped and walked at each of the 4 water stops. I took a GU at the 2nd and 4th one.
The hills on miles 1-3, definitely tired me out. My plan changed from just walking at the water stops to walking up the hills to finally just walking whenever my legs were too tired to run. That seemed to be very often. Still I was keeping up with the same runners. Perhaps I was running fast when I was actually running. The steepest hill was between miles 5 and 6 (see pace below). Ugh!
Miles 7-9.3 –
The rest of the race was on the bike path and the part of the path that went downhill right into Lake George Village (opposite the lake). Finally running downhill!! Though, it seemed too little, too late to make up for the slow mile 6.
After my 2nd GU, I got a second wind and tried pick up the pace and eventually sprint to the finish.
The path to the finish was on grass – soft but so difficult to run fast on.
I crossed at 1:36:xx and I was happy to be done!!
As you crossed, they asked your age and then handed you an age group award if you won.
2nd for me… recycling the medals from the canceled 2020 race.
Post Race Activities:
great view of the lake from the finish line
Refreshments included watermelon, bananas, home made cookies and pastries. All the baked goods were individually wrapped.
I headed right for the watermelon. No ice cream this year 😦
I got my bag (which had a towel and flip flops) and headed with the other runners to soak my feet in the lake.
There wasn’t much time to relax in the water as I spotted two buses waiting to take runners back to the start. I ran to the bus as I remembered that the last time, there was quite a wait until the next bus (and by now it was very warm out!!)
In past years, I stayed and visited friends in Lake George or went on our boat. This year, I immediately drove home.
Back to the race:
They say “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” And I was not sore at all the next day and back to running again on Monday. So all is good.
Additional Race Reflections:
I have to say that I’ve gotten spoiled with all the extras, my local race organization provides for its racers. So I felt a little let down but with only 118 runners, it was a small race and not an expensive one to enter.
And those hills… with the heat, I was in no shape to give 100% to this race. I was perfectly happy to just walk when it felt good to… And besides mile 6, I was running at a decent pace because by walking a lot, when I was running, I was running fast!
I think the last sentence of the first paragraph explains why I race so much!!
The Good:
Easy organized packet pick-up.
Lots of parking
Real Bathrooms at the start.
Early start time
Scenic course – especially the bike path (with running water views and shade)
Gender specific tech shirt
4 water stops
Decent selection of post race food – bananas, watermelon, home-made baked goods
Ended at the Lake
Photographer at the finish line
Shuttle back to the start
The Bad:
Not chip-timed
No port-a-potties along the course or at the finish
The hilly looped miles 2-4
Little crowd support
No Nuun or Gatorade at water stops
No bag check
No music and national anthem at the start
Recycled medals for age group awards (mug or car magnet in previous years)
No ice cream (as in previous years)
Long drive (for me)
Would I recommend this race?
Yes, if you live nearby. It was a nice small race with challenging hills.
I may run it again if I plan some nearby post-race activities. Otherwise, I may chose a closer race.
Final Stats:
Splits:
Next Up:
7/4/22
and a few more 5ks this summer before the half marathons start in the Fall.
Happy Running! Any exciting plans for the summer? Have you run a lot of 15ks? How do you feel about hilly races? How far do you usually drive for a race? Please share.
We started out with fall-like weather and then as the week progressed, the temps started rising.
Just in time for my 15k race..
Last Week:
Sunday – Boating Sunday! Chilly and windy but always better than staying home.
picture perfect day in the bay. lots of reading and relaxing accomplished!!
Monday – Juneteenth celebrated so a day off from work.
I could get used to this… Doing things on my own schedule!! FOMO on you non-working runners!!
Got my weeding, trimming bushes, laundry, grocery shopping done.. all in this cool fall-like morning.
I met a friend for a walk in the afternoon (and the temps had warmed up significantly)
Then in the evening, a group was running in the Crossings so I joined them followed by a Trader Joe’s stop.
Tuesday – Back to reality. With rain in the forecast, I squeezed in a run before work.
the cool temp was overshadowed by the humidity but glad that I got it done early.
It rained on and off in the afternoon but my friend was still game for 5 mile walk after work… and we didn’t get too wet.
Wednesday – Again rain in the forecast. So I decided to play it by ear on whether to run or not. There was a SOAR (Sisterhood Of Athletes & Runners) run scheduled after work at UAlbany. It’s always nice to have options.
It was a small group but it was fun to chat and not to run alone…
Afterwards, I met my BFF for a walk around the mall.
Thursday – Rest day finally! And rain on and off all day.
After work, I met my friends for the ARE weekly trail run walk. As usual, we had a good time.
There was yoga before (but I didn’t join)
Friday – Rest Day #2. Getting ready for the race the next day.
bib for Sunday’s race (just in case)
And the evening with the mah jongg ladies.
Saturday – Race Day – Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k.
A very early morning wake-up since I had to leave by 5:45am to get to the race. I’d like to report that I was prepared for those hills… but I wasn’t. Still I enjoyed the last two miles and the post-race dip in the lake especially since the summer HEAT and HUMIDITY had returned.
medal recycled from 2020 for my age group award
Sunday – Race Day and/or Boating Sunday!
Before Saturday’s race was announced, I had signed up for a fun trail 5k (see bib above). After having run a HILLY 15k the day before and temps in the 90s today… I decided I’d rather be floating in the lake!!
This Coming Week on the Run–
Monday – DAY OFF – hiking with friends, run
Tuesday –run
Wednesday – rest day, Van Gogh exhibit, dinner out with tennis friends
Thursday – run, ARE trail run walk
Friday – rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – Long Run
Sunday – rest day, boating
This Coming Week on the Blog –
Tuesday – Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k Race Recap
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.
Happy Running! How is your running going? Any in-person races run or planned? Any fun plans for the summer? Please share.
This race was not on my radar. I was planning a long run and taking a break from racing.
Then my friend begged me to do it with her. How could I say No?
I said that I would sign up if she ran 5 more miles after the race with me… (I wanted to be prepared for my 15k race the following weekend.)
This was not the first time I had run this race. I ran it in 2010!!
they gave out free ice cream that year,
Yes, 12 years ago! I ran with Amanda, a running friend at that time:
This is the race where I met new running BFF Mary. We ran many races together after that. When she eventually moved to Palm Springs, I visited her twice.
Kelly and Mary (on the right)
Then I ran it again in 2016. I knew a lot of runners by then. And it was even more fun.
here with my friend Tom
and my age group competition, Carolyn
My time back in 2010 was 29:40 but improved to 28:47 in 2016. Both years, I was 2nd in my age group (won a cap, then gloves).
2022? Anything could happen… no expectations.
Pre-Race Preparations and Activities:
I had a tiring two days working in NYC before the race. And I returned home very late the night before.
At least I did get in a few short runs during the week.
Race Day:
Below is the course map and elevation:
elevation according my Garmin is below…
I was really relaxed about this race. I was soooo tired and so I had no real goals besides enjoying myself. And I also needed to save energy to run 5 more miles after the race!!
I got to the race early.. I never looked at the weather so I was surprised how windy and chilly it was. I got my bib and shirt and sat in my car to stay warm (very odd since it was 91 degrees the day before when I was in NYC).
cotton shirt but also 4 free tickets to a minor league baseball game
Eventually I did get out to hang out with friends.
Heidi (who talked me into this race) finally arrived.
There were even real restrooms
She persuaded me to do one mile before the race so we would only have to run 4 more after. It was more of a walk but still we got it done.
This race began and ended at the home of the Valley Cats, a local baseball team that plays at Joe Bruno Stadium in Troy, NY, on the campus of Hudson Valley Community College.
The finishers are captured on the large stadium screen
Reluctantly I left my jacket in Heidi’s car since I had DIY arm warmers on. Still I was COLD!!
There was no chip timing at the start line so I started pretty close to the front. Heidi moved farther back.
and took this pic of me
Mile 1:
The race began in the parking lot and then we ran around the outside of the stadium before heading into the neighborhoods.
this was in 2016
As soon as I started running I was no longer cold. I even immediately rolled down my arm warmers. And the wind was not as bad as it was at the stadium.
But I was dragging… I so wanted to be back in my bed catching up with my sleep. I was running but I couldn’t catch my breath and felt to need to walk.
I had started with my friend Carolyn (my age group rival) but she quickly got ahead and kept gaining on me as the race went on.
Mile 2:
Finally there was a water stop around mile 1.5 so I walked a bit. The neighborhoods were rolling hills but nothing too bad until one steep one during the second mile. I tried to run up it but the legs just weren’t having it. So I ran/walked it.
We repeated most of the course afterwards so here are some pics from the neighborhoods
Carolyn was still way ahead but I also knew that she was fast and if I could see her in the distance, my pace wasn’t that bad. (I don’t look at my Garmin usually until the race is over.)
Mile 3-3.1:
A few more walks, I think. And then there was a welcome downhill during mile 3.
We finished the race inside the stadium and I gave it everything (which wasn’t much at this point).
I didn’t expect a PR however I really wanted to finish under 29 minutes.
And I did – 28:43 (gun time)!! Course PR!!!
Post Race Activities:
Everyone whom I talked to before the race seemed to have a good race. Some finished ahead of me and some after.
I waited for Heidi to finish (and she did well, too.)
the happy runners with the Valley Cats mascot
We headed for the food while waiting for the age group awards to be announced. There was a decent spread: popcorn, bagels, cookies, bananas, coffee, water. I had a hot dog, coffee and cookie.
And I did win one – 2nd in my age group.
Carolyn in (orange) won a 1st)
yup, a bat.. hey, it was the “home run 5k”
We planned to run more miles after the race. Did we want to???
Nope!!
I insisted and Heidi couldn’t say No so we went back to her car to get my jacket (I was shivering…)
We sorta did intervals but mostly ran until we didn’t feel like it. We started in the stadium/college parking lots and then decided that it would be more scenic to run in the same neighborhoods as during the race.
We got it done!!! And immediately headed to Panera’s for our reward.
Additional Race Reflections:
When I dragged myself out of bed that morning, I was not feeling good about running this race.
As usually happens, I connected with some awesome people, ran a decent race and don’t regret it one bit.
Positives:
Ample parking.
Well marked course.
Lots of familiar faces.
4 free tickets to a game as swag
Interesting course (through the neighborhoods and finish in a baseball stadium)
Friendly and abundant number of volunteers.
Free photos
Interesting 5 year age group awards (a bat)
Decent post-race food
Negatives:
Cotton shirt
Gun time (not chip timed)
Hills (but don’t most races)
Windy
Would I recommend this race?
Yes. Yes. It’s a nice local race. And very well organized. Maybe someone will twist my arm to run it again next year.
Final Stats:
Splits:
5 walks!!
according to my Garmin
Next Up:
Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k
June 25, 2022
Happy Running! How was your weekend? Did you race? If so, how did it go? How did you celebrate Father’s Day? Please share.
It’s Tuesday so don’t forget to link up with these wonderful ladies: Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).
This week was rather hectic and it included a quick trip NYC for work.
I am always excited when I get to visit NYC but I wish it were for pleasure.
Last Week:
Sunday – Boating Sunday! And grateful that the rain in the forecast never materialized.
my favorite place to read and relax!!
Monday – I had the day off from work. The original plan was to meet a college friend in NYC. She had to cancel.
Plan B – meet a tennis friend to go hiking in the Adirondacks. She had to cancel.
Plan C – meet a running friend to go hiking in Lenox, MA. She did not cancel and we had a lovely time.
First we hiked in Pleasant Valley Nature Sanctuary.
Then after lunch, we went to Kennedy Park.
When I got home, I met two friends for a walk on the rail trail (with wine and snacks after).
Got my steps in today!!!
Tuesday – After two days off from running, I knew I needed to get out there (in order to get my 4 days in) so I squeezed in a short one before work.
another Broadway run 🙂
After work, again I walked on the rail trail (but a different section) with friends.
Wednesday – A busy work day and a dentist appt.
But Wednesday evenings there are several scheduled group runs. Tonight there was an ice cream run. You know I couldn’t resist that.
Not wanting to run late and drive far, I met up with a friend to run closer to home … and have ice cream.
and we twinned in SS skirts
Thursday – First day traveling to NYC for work since January 2020. I was subbing for another trainer. After taking Amtrak to Manhattan, I checked into my hotel, had lunch and then took the subway to Queens. Eventually I returned to Manhattan.
I couldn’t let a day in NYC go by without a run in Central Park.
loved every minute there!!
Unfortunately it is hard to coordinate a meet-up with my NYC buds. I didn’t see Elizabeth but Cari and I did have a late dinner together.
Friday – Another trip from Manhattan to Queens to work and back and then Amtrak home that night. LONG DAY!! And a hot one… 90 degrees!!! (Glad I was minimally outside.)
time to kill before my evening train… so why not?
Saturday – Race Day – Valley Cats Father’s Day Home Run 5k – I was NOT planning to run a race today but a running friend asked me to… that’s what friends are for…
It was fun!! And talk about weather whiplash… it was windy and in the 50s!!
I felt like I was sleep walking and was surprised to come in 2nd in my age group
and afterward, I talked her into accompanying me on 5 more miles (followed my brunch) and then errands.
Brrrr…. but we warmed up as we re-traced the race route
Sunday – Supposed to be sunny and warmer so the plans are to spend Father’s Day on the boat.
pic from last FD
This Coming Week on the Run–
Monday – DAY OFF (Juneteenth) – run
Tuesday –run
Wednesday – rest day
Thursday – ARE trail run
Friday – rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k
Sunday – rest day, boating
This Coming Week on the Blog –
Tuesday – Valley Cats Father’s Day Home Run 5k Race Recap
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.
Happy Running! How is your running going? Any in-person races run or planned? What is your favorite post run treat? How are you celebrating Father’s Day? Please share.
This is the only race that I’ve run every year! This was my 15th time!!!!! (In 2020, it went virtual so actually my 14th in-person FRW race.)
It is always held the Saturday after Memorial Day but due to COVID, the race was moved to September last year. This year, it has retuned to its regular date.
on their webpage…can you spot me in the pink cap?
My first FRW was in 2008 (my first year of running). At the time, it was the farthest I’d ever run:
I mentored a beginning running group in 2010 which was very rewarding:
Unfortunately, I’m the only one from this group who still runs.
In 2012, it was my first run after serious ankle surgery:
and this photo made the cover of our local paper.
I even ran it in 2013 after breaking my foot at mile 1:
And in 2019, it was the last race for my friend Andrea (who died of cancer).
As you can tell, there is a lot of history attached to this race for me.
In 2020, I was named an Ambassador. That honor has continued into this year, as well.
Believe it not, I chose to skip my high school reunion (also scheduled for today) in order to run this race!!
Pre-Race Preparations and Activities:
As with this race every year, I never know what will happen… I could break my foot again (as I did in 2013) or could have a course PR as I did in 2018. Most likely, it will just be a fun race with lots of women.
And this was also my seventh Freihofer Training Challenge.
did my green hat stand out much in 2018?!
Training is a loose term. I kinda just showed up on most Monday runs. But each Monday seemed to follow either a half marathon or a long run. As a result, although I registered for the Advanced group, I never participated in any of their speed drills. Instead I usually ran with the Intermediate group.
But I was excited to be part of it and support all the runners who would be finishing their FIRST 5k. And see my “current and past FTC” buddies who would hopefully PR.
In past years, the day before I walked to Empire State Plaza concourse at lunch to go to the expo and pick up my race packet. They used to have a really big expo with vendors and health-related exhibits. But the past few years, they have held it at a local college.
race swag = cookies, break and a shirt
As I did last year, I signed up to volunteer on Friday evening at packet pick-up and then skipped playing mah jongg in favor of a pizza dinner and time to organize my #flatme.
Race Day:
I hate parking garages and traffic so I parked on the street and walked to the start. I used to do this every year. However, with the new(er) course, it was an even longer hike. Like almost 2 miles!
It was still strange to run down Madison Avenue and not see the race banners and not see the giant poster on the bridge.
pics from 6 years ago…
Due to construction, they changed the course seven years ago.
They say that this course is faster…less congested and has a less steep hill at the start and finish.
course map
elevation according to my Garmin
I did run the new course the past seven years and I liked it better than the original..
heading downhill to the finish line
The start was near a park across from the Capitol Building. I wore a jacket because I thought it would be cool out. Nope. Bright sunshine and warming up quickly.
Soon the start line as in sight.
I ran past it and entered the City Hall park in search of the Training Challenge tent. I left my jacket there. In past years, there was water and lots of snacks. Not this year.
oops. ripped my bib
I was quite early so I continued to walk around until more runners arrived. I chatted with many of my running friends and took quite a few pics.
my tennis friend, Mary Pat (responsible for starting me on my running journey. Do you recognize her from the 2008 pic?
my “sole sister” Heidi
training challenge friends
Catching up with everyone made the time go by quickly and soon it was time to line up for our Training Challenge photo.
Though, I didn’t get much out of the training itself, I was happy to be part of this amazing group of women.
I was scheduled to start in corral 3 so I headed that way and bumped into a few friends there too. While I was waiting, I ate a Honey Stinger waffle (with no water … blech)
in my corral
Mile 1:
It is usually very crowded during the first mile but this year were fewer runners than in previous years (about 2500 vs 3500). I never really had to weave and had plenty of space to run comfortably.
The race began with a long steep uphill. It’s a good thing since it kept you at a slower pace.
But I did run the whole uphill… it was slow but I did not have to walk.
Mile 1 continued as we turned left and entered the park (and the hill ended).
There were rolling hills throughout the park. They were not bad and even I could run them without walking.
The worst part were all the potholes and cracks in the roads…There were cones over the potholes but you had to weaving back n forth to avoid them and you had to keep your eyes pealed to ground to make sure you didn’t trip.
I took this pic after the race a few years ago
Mile 2:
There was a water stop around mile 1.25. It was very sunny and I was getting warm so I did stop and walk.
More rolling hills during this mile as you ran around the park circling the lake. Only one of the hills was steep but it was very short.
I tried to pick up the pace for the second mile. I told myself that I would not walk until the next water stop.
Mile 3-3.1:
That was around mile 2.5. At this point, I was starting to get very warm so I stopped again for a drink and walked longer than before.
Finally we left the park and headed toward the street we started on.
It was a long downhill and I had to remember not to start sprinting too soon. I’ve made that mistake in past years.
Eventually I see the 3 mile sign and I started to run as fast as I could while posing for the photographers and running though the finish line.
I did see that the timing clock read 28:XX…. No course PR for this girl today!
Post Race Activities:
I knew with two walks and zero speed work, I couldn’t come close to a PR (and I was not expecting one). It was a decent time (even if it was slower than all my Freihofer 5ks since 2016) and I was happy!!
I grabbed some snacks (apple sauce, bar, banana). I was hoping as in past years to snag some chocolate milk and maybe a bagel. Nope!!
Then I went back to the finish line to cheer in some friends.
with racing friends Linda and Carolyn
I ran into even more runners again that I knew. Every where I turned, there was someone familiar – from a job, tennis, races, etc. That’s what’s great about running a popular local race.
with Heidi again and “sole sister” Deb
The first time runners were so excited. That put a smile on my face. I remembered why I love this race and it was never because of my awesome finish times.
Before we left, we checked out our finish times. No award for any of us but a good effort by all.
We were hungry and so we didn’t stay around for the awards. There were, however, some well-known runners in the field. (In past years, Sara Hall and Joan Samuelson ran this race).
Allie Ostrander (on right) won the race and Allie Kieffer came in 2nd. Allie O was recently interviewed on the Ali on the Run podcast.
And last but not least, this lady at age 92!!!
with her daughter and granddaughter – so sweet!!
I walked back (uphill) to my car and then met Heidi and Deb at the diner for brunch.
Additional Race Reflections:
Many runners were excited about their PRs. I may not have run my fastest time but I still enjoyed myself.
You get what you put in. I did not do all the speed workouts so I can’t be disappointed. I also recently ran a half marathon and a 10 mile race and I am no spring chicken. My time may not have been as fast as 2018 (a course PR of 27:37) but it was faster than the previous two 5ks that I’ve run in 2022.
So I was very pleased with that.
And I always enjoy running through Washington Park too.
from IG
Positives:
Ample parking.
Well marked course.
Lots of familiar faces.
Interesting course (through a beautiful park).
Downhill finish.
Friendly and abundant number of volunteers.
Two water stops (for a 5k)
The electric atmosphere.
Virtual option.
Free finish and start photos
Immediate results
Nice Swag for a 5k (tech shirt, medal, cookies, bread)
All women – all ages, all paces…
Many free photo stations
Negatives:
Uphill first mile.
Uneven pavement in the park
Sunny and warm
No chocolate milk or bagels post-race
Would I recommend this race?
Yes. Yes. It’s a great local race. And having it be ALL WOMEN makes it even more special.
Final Stats:
Splits:
Negative splits!!!! Woo Hoo!
I have a 15k is a few weeks and I thought I might run a few more miles so today could also count as a long run.
And I would have if I hadn’t had the brunch option. No will power!
So FRW #15 is in the books!
The tradition is still alive! It was again a great local race with many women running it. Can’t wait to run it again next year.
Next Up:
Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k
June 25, 2022
Happy Running! How was your weekend? Did you race? If so, how did it go? Do you have a favorite race that you run every year? Please share.
It’s Tuesday so don’t forget to link up with these wonderful ladies: Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).
The CDPHP® Workforce Team Challenge is a 3.5-mile road race open to teams of employees from corporations, businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, not-for-profit corporations, and financial institutions. Participating companies, organizations, and agencies use the event as a platform to provide health and fitness opportunities in the workplace while promoting goodwill and camaraderie among their employees.
It takes place at the Empire State Plaza in Albany on a similar course to the old Freihofer course. It usually sells out early with a cap of 10,000 runners.
At my former job, I ran this race once (in 2011), the only year I convinced them to have a team. It was fun so I signed up to be part of a team at my new job in 2017. We didn’t actually have enough runners for our own team so we partnered with UAlbany. I ran it with this team in 2018 and 2019, as well.
I enjoyed it and it was a good way to get to know others where I work. (Obviously purple is UAlbany’s color…)
2011
2017
2018
2019
Then there was the Pandemic. The race was cancelled in 2020. In 2021, it was postponed to August and moved to a new location.
a super hot and humid evening for a race… on a hilly course
Happy to report that this year, the race returned to its original date and location.
1.Race Day:
Anyway I remembered the course from many years ago. It starts with a steep uphill and then flattens out. You run through the park which has rolling hills and then it ends with a steep downhill.
elevation according to my Garmin
It is actually more of a run than a race. With thousands of participants and many walkers, you feel (at least I do) no pressure to do anything but finish.
The Monday before the race, I had returned from 8 days in Florida. And I had run a 5k on the previous Sunday.
During the days before the race I was soooo tired. I considered skipping this race many times. But I hadn’t made a definite decision. Factoring into the decision was the fact that I would be running a half marathon the weekend after, as well.
So I did run (slowly) on Tuesday and Wednesday.
When I woke up to a rainy Thursday (race day) with a headache, I felt that I should DNS this race. I worked until 4 pm and then it started to rain again… hard!
Confirmed! “I’m not racing,” I said to my hubby. “If the rain stops later, I’ll just run on my own” (maybe).
And that point, the rain stopped and the sun came out.
Well, you know what happened next. I felt guilty and decided to go to the race. I knew that many of the participants would be walking and I could too.
Now what do you eat for a race that starts at 6:25 pm?
I quickly ate some waffles and hoped that would be enough.
To avoid the crowds, I parked my car in town and walked about 1.5 miles to the start. Actually I had to run some of it because I left later than planned.
The weather was cool (60s) and the rain had stopped. I even brought a jacket. I checked my app and the humidity was 90% Yikes. (I was overdressed with a long sleeve shirt. At least I chose to wear a skirt.)
My team was pretty organized. Again this year, they had set up a table and canopy. I walked around for a while searching for their table but finally located it (in a place not far from where it was in a previous year.)
I had not already picked up my team tee and bib so I got that and was just in time for the team photo. (I didn’t know anyone on my team since I don’t actually work for them and as I mentioned before, my place of employment does not have its own team.)
I wore the team shirt over my existing shirt even though it was too big again this year (Unisex!!)
Soon it was time to headed to the start. There were fewer runners lined up this year (almost 4,000 + many running it virtually), but they again had corrals. I was in the second corral (LIME green). I pushed my way in (as predicted many ignored their correct corral) and moved up as far they could.
And then I just waited in the crowd. What was cool about this race is that I knew so many runners and they were all running/walking with their work teams.
Several years ago, Sawyer Fredericks (winner of The Voice and a local) sang the National Anthem. This year, it was an unknown local however, she was great.
Eventually, the race started.
Of course, it took awhile before we even moved.
The biggest problem with this race was that unless you were in the front and very fast, it was impossible to gain any speed. Even with the corrals, I was playing bumper cars the whole race. It seemed even more crowded this year even without the walkers in front of me. So middle of the packers, like me, just weaved in and out, bumped into people saying “excuse me” throughout the entire race.
But then again except for a chosen group of runners, it was not a “race.” It was just a way to get out of the office (or for me “home”) and get some exercise with their co-workers. Some businesses had 200-500 employees participating.
I think it’s a great thing. So I tried not to get annoyed or take it seriously.
In fact, this was great for me. I had the goal of NOT racing it… walking up the hills and keeping my pace between 10 and 11 minutes!!!
Back to the race…
We started up a long uphill climb which flattened until we entered the park. I ran slow and chatted with many runners that I knew.
The course continued through the park with rolling hills – one or two being rather steep. Yes, I did walk.
There was a water stop in the park around mile 1.5. I stopped and walked. It was much warmer than I had thought.. We continued in the park but eventually left onto the streets of Albany.
There was a second water stop around mile 2.5 and I stopped and walked even longer.
Because I started out so slow and never ran fast, I never felt tired or out of breath. A new concept for me.
Eventually, you headed toward that downhill finish.
I was tempted to go into an all out sprint but it was a steep downhill so I had to hold back.
But when I saw the clock in the distance, I picked up the pace so that I could at least finish strong.
I crossed at 35:xx.
done!
I was pretty happy… I had done just what I had planned and I felt so much better than I did before the race (It’s so amazing about that “runner’s high.”)
2. Post Race Activities:
I slowly made my way back through the crowd to the team table to get a jacket that I had left there. There was no one there. In past years, there was quite a spread of refreshments and runners there planning an after race get-together. Not this year!
I was very impressed by the race organization again this year. After you picked up water, you proceeded to a tent to get your time (if you wanted). I just logged onto my phone and skipped that line.
Then you continued on to get your race shirt, followed by another stop to a get bag with food. The lines moved very quickly. There were lots of volunteers to make sure everything went smoothly.
swag was also a cooling towel and water bottle.
I bumped into many running friends and we chatted as we walked around the Empire State Plaza.
Eventually, I had to make the long walk back to my car…
It was over an hour after I finished but there were people still on the course… Everyone looked happy and to be having a great time.
It made me smile but I quickened my step to get to my car since it was getting late with a quick detour through the park…
sadly many of the tulips had died
3. Additional Race Reflections:
My finish time may have have been the slowest on this course.
2022 – 35:14
2019 – 32:56
2017 – 33:40
2011 – 33:41
Nevertheless, I had lots of fun chatting with friends and meeting new runners. Getting in my last run before my half marathon was just gravy.
To quote the winner of the race: “Just the fact that you’re there representing your company as opposed to being in a race on your own is definitely something else that makes it extraordinary,”
Anyway I remembered the course from many years ago. It starts with a steep uphill and then flattens out. You run through the park which has rolling hills and then it ends with a steep downhill.
My First 5K and More... 