February 17, 2019 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 2.4.19-2.17.19: Racing and then Recovery

So I went to Florida, ran a half marathon and now I’m back. My next race is the NYC Half Marathon on March 17.

Two weeks ago – 2.4.19-2.10.19

Monday – 50 degrees!!! Although I ran 12 miles in the past two days, I had to go for an after work run. Three of my Sole Sisters suggested UAlbany and I never turn down company for a run.

Tuesday – Another after work run at UAlbany. We’re stuck there until all the snow melts. And again I was lucky to have the company of the two of the Sole Sisters. It was colder and windier than the day before and my legs were not feeling it. But a run is a run and now the “hay is in the barn.”

Wednesday – A rest day so I could get home to pack and get to bed early.
Thursday – Another rest day since I had to catch an early AM flight to West Palm Beach. Coincidentally, the hubby was flying to Charleston, SC for a tennis tournament and we were on the same first leg (to Charlotte). Once I arrived, I picked up my rental car and headed to Delray Beach to stay with my friend Fonda. The first thing I did was put on my bathing suit and seek out the sunshine (at the pool). Then we took off for a wildlife sanctuary where we saw loads of birds, iguanas and even an alligator.

I ended the day with my first Florida dinner – shrimp tacos and key lime pie ❤

Friday – I started the day with my first Florida run. Running in a skirt=heaven.

Then we met my two old friends, Barbara and Michelle, for brunch. After brunch, Fonda and I headed to the beach so I could soak up some Vitamin D.

Then it was time for me to head north to Hobe Sound to my friend Georgette’s, my next hostess, where I had a delicious home-cooked meal.

Saturday – I wish I could have run here but it was the day before my half. Instead, I went for a walk in the neighborhood following by a visit to Jonathon Dickinson State Park. We walked to the top of a tower and then along a nature trail.

I would have loved to stay longer but I had to get to Melbourne for packet pick up and then drive to Sebastien to my sister-in-law’s where I would be spending the night.

Unfortunately, the weather was beautiful but up north in Melbourne, it was not. It was raining and I was not able to stroll around town. So I left, had pizza & ice cream with my sister-in-law and got ready for the next day’s race.

Sunday – Race Day – Publix Florida Half Marathon. It was either drizzling or pouring the entire 13.1 miles. But the course was beautiful and I finished!! Celebrate finish lines NOT finish times, right? And I enjoyed the post-race food inspite of the weather.

I spent the rest of the day at the McKee Botanical Garden where there was an exhibit of my favorite sculptors (Seward Johnson) and then walking along the beach. Yes, the weather in Vero Beach was beautiful.

In the evening, my sister-in-law and I celebrated with a seafood dinner (and drink) along the water.

Last week – 2.11.19-2.17.19

Monday – Again, I woke to awesome weather and the warmest temps yet. I had to go for a run and decided on sunrise along the Indian River. It was breath-taking. The only downside was that I forgot that I strained something in my shin/calf the day before walking along the beach/dunes. I did the run with a lot of walking.

I stalled my visit as long as possible with another walk and a dip in the pool before heading to the airport to return home.

Tuesday – A rest day due to my leg and a snowstorm. Plus, I had to unpack so I could re-pack.
Wednesday – I took the train to NYC for work. Once I arrived, I headed to Central Park where I was scheduled to meet Elizabeth (Skirt Sports sister) for a run. I was nervous about my leg but Elizabeth was delayed at work so I just took it easy and ran/walked around 72nd St entrance to the park.

and then met her after for dinner/drinks.

always great catching with another runner

Afterward I walked 40 blocks back to my hotel.

Thursday – A long work day but I had enough time to squeeze in a short run along the High Line

still in injury denial so I ran/walked the miles

before going to see Billy Joel at Madison Square Garden. He was awesome, even better than the last time.

Friday -A rest day and the train back home.
Saturday -Normally this would have been my long run day – 10 miles was on the schedule. But I decided to be smart and rest the leg. Instead I went the gym, rode the exercise bike and then did errands before going out to celebrate a dear friend’s birthday.

Sunday – Rest Day because I volunteered at Winter Series #5 Race. 3 hours in the freezing cold but it was worth it. I got to see many running friends and provided valuable directions to those running the race. (I was stationed where the marathoners, 20 milers, 10 milers and 4.5 milers had to turn or not turn. Yes I was nervous that I would steer them wrong.)

This week –

No running plans. Waiting to see if my leg feels normal before I attempt to run. I still have 4 weeks until my half. Fingers crossed!!!!!!!!!

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Hom e

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Any big races on the horizon? Anyone else sneak off to the South to escape the polar vortex? Please share.

February 15, 2019 by Darlene

Friday Five – NYCM 2019

It’s Friday so I’m linking up with Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostess and visit some other bloggers.

My topic for today is: Five Reasons Why I Signed Up to Run the NYC Marathon

If you follow my blog, you know that I said that I was going to register for the NYC Marathon … Well, I did!

It’s my first marathon and if you wondering, here’s why:

1. I had a guaranteed entry.

So many runners have to enter the lottery and I didn’t. The Brooklyn Half 2018 was a miserable experience – weather-wise but my finish time (2:11:23) was good enough.

glad that I was 65 not 59

2. FOMO

I have three NYC running friends who are running it. So I won’t be alone.

: Elizabeth

: with Cari

: Anne

There are also several local running friends and fellow bloggers who have entered the lottery too. I hope they get in!!!!

3. I am a New Yorker.

I mean. I plan to only run ONE marathon ever (I mean it!). Why not run the biggest one in my home state?

4. Perfect time of year to train.

NYC Marathon is November 3. That means to me, that I don’t have to train in the cold, ice or snow. I hate running in the cold weather.

If I am lucky, my longest runs will be in the fall when hot temps of summer are over and the foliage is at peak colors.

running in Oct.

5. Getting out of my comfort zone.

It’s one of the things that I said that I needed to do. After 38 half marathons, it’s probably time.

As Deena Kastor said: “…My fastest days are behind me and my best days are ahead”

my slowest yet best race

Happy Running! Any other crazy runners running NYC Marathon or have entered the lottery?

February 5, 2019 by Darlene

Polar Cap Race Recap

Feb. 2, 2019 – 10 am – Lake George, NY

You all know how much I love Lake George (at least in the summertime). Well, this race gets me up to the lake in the winter. Ex-blogger Andrea (now runner friend) and I had run this race together SIX times already. She had run this race 12 times!!!

I was injured in 2012 and couldn’t run but AJH did snag another award.

AJH got 2nd place...we won a lunch bag which matches the race shirt

I ran with her in 2014 but only she got an award.

AJH’s award in 2014

Then in 2015, we both got awards and for the first time, I beat her.

another hat for AJH but my first.

I was away in 2016 but we ran it together in 2017. I won my AG and surprisingly got a PR!!!

We ran it last year and almost froze to death. It was 4 degrees!! (But I came in 2nd in my AG).

Andrea signed up, of course, again this year and I was looking forward to seeing her.

But then a few weeks before the race, I stumbled upon her daughter’s post on IG:

My faith in the universe has been totally rocked but my faith in my mother is more ironclad than ever. This strong and tenacious woman ran her first marathon the year she turned 50(!), beat me by 20 minutes during my first 26.2 mile jaunt(!), conquered her maiden triathlon at 60(!), regularly rides 40-50-60-70-80+ miles on her trusty blue bike(!), read 171 books last year(!), and now she’s one big surgery into beating cancer. She’s the very greatest bad ass I know and I have no doubt that she’s gonna absolutely pulverize this fucking cancer, with even less mercy than she showed me when she left me in her dust on the Marine Corps Marathon course.

And yes, it brought tears to my eyes. It rocked my world, for sure.

I started reading her blog when I started running. She inspired me from the beginning. We are the same age exactly!! But she has run longer, farther, faster…even has competed in triathlons.

We met face-to-face for the first time at a race in 2010 and since then have completed in many races together (in addition to this race 6 times). I have even stayed at her house in VT twice.

Silks & Satins 5k – 2010

Adirondack Half – 2011

Biggest Loser 5k – 2013

VCM Relay – 2015

VCM Relay – 2016

FRW – 2017

Race the Train – 2018

She has also come to my area each year to participate in a duathlon. I have always come to the race to cheer her on.

So I ran this race with a heavy heart. I ran it for Andrea.

here she is finishing last year’s race walking on a bum knee but with a smile

Back to the race recap…

The thing with this race, you never know where it’s going to start and what the course will be (besides hilly.) Two years ago, they changed the course for the third time.

during the snowy 2014 race

during the cold 2015 race

getting my PR in 2017

chillin’ after last year’s race

I have not been doing any speed work at all or running on any hills. (Um …do I ever? lol) My runs on the weekend have been longish. So as usual, I went into this race with no expectations other than to have fun and stay healthy.

When I woke up, I checked Lake George’s weather and saw this:

yikes! And no I didn’t consider bailing!

So I bundled up in my usual running layers (2 shirts, DIY arm sleeves, vest, skirt/tights, gaiter, beanie, mittens). One of my running friends, Barbara, also wanted to run this race so we drove the hour ride up to Lake George together. It was nice to have company.

We arrived around 9ish and got a great parking spot in a nearby parking lot.

Packet pick-up was again at the parish hall of the church in Lake George. This newer location was warm and had restrooms which is always a plus.

another cotton t-shirt to give away

Eventually runners did arrive and I chatted with some whom I knew until Andrea arrived. She is hard core – drove over 2 hours from VT since her doctor said that she could walk the race. Yes, in addition to hard core, she is definitely Badass!!!

We waited until the last minute to go out into the cold. We had to walk quite a ways as the race started in town by the lake. (Since the race repeated its course, I will re-post some of my pics from previous years. It was too cold to take any))

There was no real starting line and the race was not chip timed. Even though I ran the race last year, I didn’t really remember what the course was like so here is a map that I found online.

I am directionally challenged anyway so it wouldn’t have meant much to me even if I looked at the map before the race.

waiting to begin (pic from D. Olden)

Luckily we didn’t have to wait long in the cold before the race started. There seemed to be less than 100 runners which is much fewer than usual (probably because of the cold temps.)

A lot of the course was a blur, as usual, but here’s what I remember. Rather than taking pictures during this race again, I’m posting last year’s as they did not change the course.

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pic from FB – cute markers at each mile

The first mile started with a slight uphill and then it flattened out. I was cold (at least my face and lips were from the wind) and my legs felt very stiff since I hadn’t warmed up. I was ok with that because I wanted to start out slow. I also found my stomach growling since the race started at 10 am and I had eaten 3 hours ago. I concentrated on the scenery and surprisingly, the ground was not as slippery as I feared. Still, I needed to pay attention.

I wore again my new “old” Garmin and I thought I fixed it to show pace. But nope but at least now, it does measure the pace which I looked at after the race.

Mile two started where the race used to start and than meant a steepish hill. I told myself to be smart since I had a half marathon in ONE week and I never run on hills. However this time, I pushed myself to run slowly and not walk. It was practically a crawl and I did it. At this point, I was actually thawing out. In fact, I felt warm.

The longest and biggest was at mile 3 and although it was only 1/2 mile, it seemed to go on forever. This time I walked/ran it. Afterward we were rewarded with a nice downhill. I am always hesitant to go all out on the downhills so many runners passed me by but that was better than getting DOMS. Believe it or not, I was so warm that I unzipped my vest and took off my mittens.

Finally for mile 4, we ran along the lake and back into town. At this point, I wanted to be done and picked up the pace. Luckily the hills were finally over. I didn’t care about a PR but I secretly want to win an AG award. But I had no idea where the other runners in my AG were in at this time in the course.

Understandably (due to the weather), there were fewer volunteers than normal. There was a point along the lake where there was a roundabout and I had no idea where to run. I stopped and called to the last volunteer and asked which way to go. He told me and I ran a little more and then was confused. I turned back and he gestured to continue straight. I think I went the right way and eventually there was another volunteer ahead at the next to last turn before the finish line,

Finally, I saw that the clock ahead and it read 38:xx. I sprinted as fast as I could and crossed at 38:28.

Barbara finished just a few minutes after me. I thought about waiting around for Andrea but it was TOO COLD so Barbara and I walked back to the church together.

There was chicken noodle soup, bread, bagels, chocolate milk, fruit and baked goods – I am a sucker for home-made stuff and ate quite a few cookies and brownies (and chocolate-covered pretzels). I also had the soup and of course, the chocolate milk!

Due to technical glitches and the runners still out on the course, we had to wait around for the age group awards. It was quite a while so I chatted with a law professor that I used to work with and snacked on the refreshments.

And both Barbara and I won our age groups. So there were not many runners in our age groups. Still a win’s a win.

While Andrea was out walking the race, I mentioned to the race director that she had run this race 13 times and it was the only race that she has run EVERY year.

I think she was surprised and hopefully happy with the “Badass”award.

With 8 miles on my “training” schedule for the day, I debated about running more (for about a second) but it was TOO COLD. We did put on warmer clothes and walked into town to the Winter Carnival.

This was the first day of the event which is held every weekend in February.

they had a chili cook-off. but the line was too long and it was freezing

I said hello to my friend who was volunteering and then we walked back to my car and headed home.

As usual, I loved doing the race (even if it was cold). Small local races are the best and running one with a friend is just icing on the cake.

Race Splits:

mile 1: 9:06
mile 2: 10:02
mile 3: 9:48
mile 4: 9:07
.05: 7:36

Garmin time: 38:26
Official time : 38:28

PR – 37:21

As you know, the Tuesdays on the Run link up has been retired. There is now a new link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner). The new link up is called Tuesday Topics.

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

I’m also linking this post with Susie and Rachel and Debbie and Lora for the Running Coaches’ Corner.

Happy Running! Have you raced yet this year? How do you feel about cold weather races?

February 3, 2019 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 1.28.19-2.2.19 – The Polar Vortex and Taper Time

This is the week all half marathoners look forward to. The Taper. However it was also the week that it was TOO COLD to run outdoors. I did have my first “real” race of the year (the others were just fun free ones) and didn’t freeze to death.

Last week –

Monday – It was cold and windy as usual but the sun was out for at least the beginning of my run. It now stays lighter longer each week. I ran the only place I know with clear paths and then I met my BFF for a walk around the mall.

the 3rd day in a row running which I never do…now I know why…after 2 miles, my legs said “enough”

Tuesday – After running 3 days in a row, it was time to rest the old legs. A snow storm was predicted as well and I had to work late.
Wednesday – After a long work day, I planned to run at Ualbany but…

Nope even too cold for me…the wind was brutal.

Thursday – Since I was going into work late, I thought about a before work run. Then I looked at the temps and quickly changed my mind.

no can do. winter 2019, I hate you!

Since I had a hair appointment after work, this almost turned into a rest day for the THIRD day in a row. But I bit the bullet went to UAlbany at night for a run. It was cold. No lie but no wind and I didn’t freeze to death.

I was not the only crazy person running there. 7 degrees when I started and 2 when I finished. Brrrr

Friday – And the polar vortex continues..

actual temps not windchill

I could have run after work since I hadn’t run Tues or Wed. but I didn’t want to run the day before a race so I declared it another rest day. THREE days of NO RUNNING —not sick or injured. I.Hate.Winter. This week turned into a real taper.

At least I can wear the reversible hat I finally finished knitting.

Saturday -Today I ran the Polar Cap Run, one of my favorite 4 mile races. Only one of my Sole Sisters, Barbara, was game enough to accompany me on the 1 hour drive to run this race. In addition to running the race, I was planning to connect with my VT friend, Andrea. The temp was 2 degrees when we started but we survived the cold and the HILLS and both of us even won our age groups.

Andrea kept her streak alive and did the race for the 13th time!

Sunday -Originally I thought that today would be a rest day because I would have, as usual, added more miles on to the Polar Cap Run and call it “long run completed.” But it was too cold!! So I contacted Judy and I accompanied her on 8 of her 12 miles. Win. Win. And it was a balmy 32 degrees!

This Coming Week – Race Week!

Monday – 4 miles
Tuesday – 3 miles
Wednesday – rest day – pack
Thursday – rest day, early flight to West Palm Beach, FL, drive to Delray Beach
Friday – 4 miles, drive to Hobo Sound
Saturday – rest day, drive to Melbourne (packet pick up), drive to Sebastien
Sunday – Publix Florida Half Marathon

getting excited!!

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Hom e

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Any big races on the horizon? Please share.

January 29, 2019 by Darlene

Winter Series #4 (3m) Race Recap

Once again the Hudson Mohawk Runners Club sponsored a FREE race for its members and this weekend, they offered distances of 3M, 15K and 30K.

Since I have a half marathon in 2 weeks, I did my long run of 12 miles the day before and instead of the 15K, I chose the 3 miler as a recovery run.

This is the 4th time, I’ve run this race. As you can see from the pics below, it is more often cold and snowy than not. (Last year was the best weather year.)

during the 15k in 2015

and again in 2017

but the 3 miler in 2018

These Winter Series races start at 10 am so you don’t have to get up at the crack of dawn. However, I had an upset stomach and didn’t sleep well. I still felt nauseous when I got up and seriously considered not going. Most of my friends had run the day before so they wouldn’t be there as well.

But when I saw how cold and lousy the week’s forecast was, I decided that I might as well give it a shot. I mean, I wasn’t planning to race it anyway.

I left kinda late but there was still parking spots in the lot.

It was cold but not as cold as it had been recently. I wore something similar to what I wore the day before but with a lighter vest and lighter gloves.

2 shirts, DIY arm warmers, fleece vest, tights, skirt, compression leg sleeves, wool socks, etc.

What I love about this local race is that you get to see a lot of people whom you know.

2015 meet up with Judy & Barbara (I ran the 15k that year.)

2018 meet up with Barbara

And I immediately bumped into many different running friends. We chatted. Some were running the 3 miler and others the 15k. Some were even running the 30k.

Alyssa was volunteering and Jenny the 30k

Anyway we hung indoors until the last minute and then made our way outside.

the start (pic from a previous Winter Series)

All three distances started at the same location this week. As usual, I started not too far away from the front (since it is not chip timed) and let the speedy runners pass me by.

Right away, the 3 milers split from the 15kers and 30kers but the speedy longer distance runners eventually will pass you by midway.

not that it matters ’cause I just follow the other runners but the 3 miler is basically a loop

For most of the race, I felt perfectly dressed. I was warm at times and unzipped my vest and took off my gloves but other times, when we were running into the wind, I was glad I wore all the layers I did.

I was familiar with the course since I ran it in December and just two weeks ago. I remembered the hill at the beginning and then some rolling hills in the middle, ending with a slight hill. Nothing too challenging.

Winter4-071

The difference this race was the snowy conditions and the possibility of ice on the route. I knew that my time would be slower and that was fine by me. I didn’t want to risk falling (with a Florida half in 2 weeks.)

I also felt sick to my stomach the WHOLE race. That and the wind made it difficult to run fast.

I am also usually pretty bored by this course because it is just a road and office buildings. But I ran and chatted with different friends throughout the race. Each one after a short period ran ahead and left me behind.

running with Nancy in 2018

It didn’t bother me at all. I tried to run at my own relaxed pace. Of course, I’m not sure what exactly that was (since I don’t look at my Garmin until I’m done).

I was very happy that my legs didn’t feel tired at all and I couldn’t even tell that I had run the day before. But obviously from my finish time, I was not running as fast as I normally would.

Many of the runners that I knew were volunteering. It was nice to have them shout out your name as you ran by a few times to offer support.

Before I knew it, I saw the finish line, I took off and tried to cross under 28 minutes.

Nope, I did not – 28:12.

It was my slowest time of all the 3 milers that I have run on this course. And I have run 5 of them. (My PR is 26:49).

Still very content with my time. I did run 12 miles the day before. I expected to be slow.

I waited for Judy to finish but got distracted by a friend and missed taking her photo as I was chatting.

Bethany & I were wearing the same Skirt Sports toasty cheeks tights

Eventually I went inside to get some food. They had delicious roasted red pepper soup, breads, fruits, cookies, hot chocolate, etc. It’s great that there are such variety of post-race refreshments for a free race.

Believe it or not, I felt better after the race than before or during and ate all of the above.

I waited with some friends for the awards – you never know…The awards were for 10 year age groups and just top 2.

Although my finish time was slower than the previous races I’ve run here, obviously the speedy runners in my age group ran the 15k so I won an age group award – 2nd.

I was very happy with how I used this race as a recovery run. It was also cool to win a loaf of bread- my first in this year’s series.

Race splits:

mile 1 – ?
mile 2 – ?
mile 3 – ?
.04

Finish Time – 28:12

So why no split times, you ask?

I love my original Garmin – 205. I’ve had two of them and recently I saw one on Ebay for $19 (with no tax or shipping) so I bought it. Obviously, I forgot to set it up for pace per mile.

I glanced at my watch about once a mile and I know for a fact, that each mile was slower than the previous one. high 8s for mile 1, low 9s for mile 2, high 9s for mile 3.

Again, I made the right decision to run this race. No pain. The legs felt great. I.LOVE.RACING!!

The only negative was:

I lost my favorite hat!!! I took it off and put it with my vest, gloves and my extra coat. When I left, I forgot it. I went back later and it was gone!!! Boo!!!!

One more Winter Series race this year (Jan 27) and I will be volunteering instead of running. At least, Ill get a hat.

Next Saturday, I signed up for a 4 mile race in Lake George. Fingers crossed for no sub-zero temps or icy roads.

AJH (from VT) & I at this race. We try to do this one together every year.

As you know, the Tuesdays on the Run link up has been retired. There is now a new link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner). The new link up is called Tuesday Topics.

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

I’m linking also up with Coaches Corner–Debbie, Susie, Lora, and Rachel!

and Wild Workout Wednesday with Nicole, Annmarie, Jen, and Michelle.

Happy Running! How you are enduring the winter? Did you run or race this past weekend?

January 27, 2019 by Darlene

Weekly Wrap for 1.21.19-1.27.19: Finding a place to run…

Well, we finally got snow and it sucked. Really put a damper on my running. I hate to run on the treadmill!!)

Last week –

Monday – Love me a day off from work. I can run in the daylight anywhere I chose. Of course, it would have been nice not to worry about finding a running route without snow. As I mentioned for the Saturday long run, The Crossings is the only place (beside UAlbany) I knew where they shovel the snow on most of the paths. The biggest problem was not the snow, however, but the sub-zero temps. And NO, I did not run outdoors. The wind was horrendous. I cooked and cleaned but got cabin fever so I decided to go to my free gym since I was nearby doing errands. I threw in the towel after 2 miles on the treadmill. I was miserable. I won’t do that again.

Tuesday – An after work run at UAlbany. Both of my Sole Sisters decided to run on the treadmill. I chose UAlbany because it is a college and the paths are always clear and lit. It was cold but nothing compared to the day before. However the paths were far from cleared. Mostly snow-covered and hard to run on. Very disappointing.

Wednesday – Another after work run. It was windy but warmer but it threatened to snow/sleet/rain all day so I was ready to throw in the towel (even though the first run for the STEM program was scheduled for 6:30 pm tonight) However, when I got out of work, it hadn’t started yet…Next was the question on where to run??? Good News. All the paths at UAlbany were clear so off I went (sorry, STEM runners – it was raining hard by the time I finished so I went home.)

20 degrees warmer + no ice or snow + still light out= 🙂

Thursday – I planned on a rest day (and a rainy warm one it was) because I had plans for our monthly tennis dinner out. As always, a fun evening out.

weather and vacations made our group a lot smaller tonight

Friday – Another rest day and I played hostess to my mah jongg group.
Saturday – Long run Saturday with the Sole Sisters. This week, we met at the Crossings to run again due to the snow/ice. I had 12 miles on my schedule. It was cold again but the sun was shining. I ran my first 7 miles with Barbara, the last 5 with Sherry and there was brunch after. All is good.

the paths were mostly icy so we ventured out into the neighborhoods to get it done (on tired legs)… so grateful for running friends

Sunday – Winter Series #4 Race and I downgraded to the 3m distance from the 15k. I wasn’t feeling great but when I got to the race and saw all my friends, my mood changed instantly. And although it was my worst 3 mile time in 5 tries, I got an age group award. Yes, sometimes it pays just to show up.

the speedy ladies in my AG ran the 15k or the 30k

This Coming Week –

Monday – 3 miles, mall walk with BFF
Tuesday – ~~3 miles~~ work set up, rest day
Wednesday – 3 miles (volunteer with STEM)
Thursday – rest day, hair appt.
Friday – rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – Polar Cap Race + 4 miles (Feb. 10 half marathon taper begins)
Sunday -rest day, pack for Fla

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Hom e

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Any big races on the horizon? Did you get hit with the BIG snowstorm? If yes, how did you deal? Please share.

January 18, 2019 by Darlene

Friday Five – Publix Florida Half Marathon

It’s Friday so I’m linking up with Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostess and visit some other bloggers.

I have my first half marathon of 2019 in THREE weeks – the Publix Florida Half Marathon. Though I have run 8 halfs in Florida, this is the first time for this particular race.

: Naples -Jan 2011

: First Watch Sarasota – Mar 2013

: West Palm – Jan 2015

: Eau Palm Beach – Dec 2015

: Sarasota Music Half – Feb 2016

: PCB Half – Dec 2016

: Treasure Coast Half (Jupiter)- Mar 2017

: Brew2Brew Half (Vero Beach) – Mar 2018

So my Topic this week is: Five Things I’d Love to Happen During This RACE

1.Good Weather

Not too hot and not too cold. No wind or rain. It’s in Florida so I’m not sure what I can do about the humidity.

don’t let the pic fool you…I FROZE during this one.

2. No pain.

No foot pain or lower back pain. Or any new aches or injuries.

ouch on new lower back pain during RnR Brooklyn

3. Ocean Views

Sometimes, they say there will be water views but you can never see the ocean or it is for such a short period of time. This is the main reason why I love Florida races.

it does look like I’ll see the water

4.Age Group Award

At my age, this is always a possibility and welcome reward.

won last year at Brew2Brew Half

5. Finish under 2:15.

Not expecting a PR (under 2:06:52) since I did not train for one. I’d like a respectable finish time although with crossing big TWO bridges, this may be a dream.

: 2:11:23

: 2:11:48

Happy Running! Do you have any goals for your first BIG race or any race in 2019? Please share.

January 15, 2019 by Darlene

Winter Series #3 (3M) Race Recap

As I have mentioned before, the Hudson Mohawk Runners Club sponsors FREE races throughout the winter for its members. The course is pretty boring but free is free.

This weekend, they offered distances of 3M, 10K and 25K. I am in throes of half marathon training so instead of racing the 10k (as I usually do), I ran long the day before and chose the 3 mile race distance instead.

Last year, this race was not held (due to the re-scheduled Jan 1 race) but I ran this race in 2017, 2015 & 2013.

: WS 3 – 2017

: WS 3 – 2015 with Bridget & Elisa

: WS 3 – 2013 with Melissa

Choosing the shorter distance this year gives me the opportunity to compare my time to other Winter Series races of this distance. The 3 Mile course is offered frequently. (3 out the 5 races.)

But as you know, even running the same distance on the same course is not the same – different weather conditions and feeling different physically.

So running 10 miles the day before this race would most likely impact how fast my legs were wiling to go. And having a half marathon in four weeks also would make me hesitate to go all out for fear of injury.

That being said, my goal was a decent recovery run with running friends and no aches and pains afterward.

Then unexpectedly (even though he was very old), my cat died the night before. I was very very upset and really didn’t feel like racing but I knew it could only make me feel better.

I got lucky with the weather for the second day in a row. It was COLD (teens but single digits with the wind chill) but sunny. As usual on this campus, it was windier than anywhere else..

I left early to get parking since these races are often crowded and there could be other events going on at UAlbany. But there didn’t seen to be as many runners as in previous weeks. Maybe the freezing temperature scared people away.

What I love about this local race is that you get to see a lot of people that you know.

I immediately bumped into many familiar faces and even some runners that I haven’t seen in awhile.

I wound up talking to Judy and Karen and we stayed indoors until the last minute and then made our way outside. However they were running the 10K and they lined up in a different location.

Sole Sister Heidi arrived and we started the 3 miler together.

As I’ve mentioned in my previous race post, the Winter Series races are very informal – no bibs, no starting mat, no timing chips, etc. So I try to start not too far from the front.

As usual, when you start up front, you immediately get passed by by it seems everyone. These races attract all the speedy local runners too.

: 2018

I just told myself that this was simply a fun run and just take it at your own pace. Having not warmed up, my legs felt like lead and I couldn’t get moving.

It was so cold that it was also hard to breathe…at least for the first few miles (and then of course, it was over.)

I looked down at my Garmin and it said LOW BATTERY. In the stress of my cat’s death, I forgot to charge it.

I don’t care about pace but since the miles aren’t marked, I sometimes like to see where I am in the race.

Then I looked down and my shoe was untied. UGH! I thought of stopping but it was too cold and a pain to have to take my gloves off so I just ran gingerly making sure not to trip and fall.

The course is very boring (zero scenery besides office buildings and highway) but it also has inclines. Nothing steep, just enough to keep it interesting. I wanted to be better about hills and not walk up them. And I didn’t walk at all.

Winter3-106

Runners kept speeding by me…but they were actually those running the 25k!!!

I saw Alyssa ahead of me the whole race. I was surprised since I had thought that she was running the 10k. She acted like my pacer.

Eventually I did see the finish line and saw a time for the first time in the race. It said 27:xx. I sped up and managed to crossed around 27:24. There’s no timing chip. You honestly write down your time on a piece of paper and hand it in.

I was 30 out of 80. This is a fast group, as usual.

I chatted with others at the finish line while waiting for Heidi to cross.

If it were warmer, I would have waited to cheer on Karen and Judy. But I was cold so Heidi and I went inside to warm up and have some chili (red pepper & quinoa), bread, cookies, fruit, hot chocolate. Not a bad spread for a free race.

They gave awards for the top 2 in each 10 year age group. I was 3rd this week.

Race Splits:

mile 1 – 9:17 (crawling – 8:50 last time)
mile 1.8 – 9:18 (still a crawl)
mile 1.8-3 – ??? – (must have sped up)
27:24

WS Series #1 – 28:08
2017-18 WS Series – 26:49, 27:02

So it wasn’t a 3 mile PR or course PR (but not a PW either).

I was happy with the results and that I decided to run this race.

I get one more try at this distance in two weeks!!

As you know, the Tuesdays on the Run link up has been retired. There is now a new link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner). The new link up is called Tuesday Topics and start today!!

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

I’m linking also up with Coaches Corner–Debbie, Susie, Lora, and Rachel!

and Wild Workout Wednesday with Nicole, Annmarie, Jen, and Michelle.

Happy Running! How you are enduring the winter? Did you run this weekend?

January 13, 2019 by Darlene

1.7.19-1.13.19 – Four weeks to go…

Yup, I’ll be running my first half marathon of 2019 in one month….gulp!

Last week –

Monday – My legs felt good despite doing my long run the day before so I took advantage and ran after work in my town …for a change.

Tuesday – No running today since I was scheduled to sub in my former tennis group. I was pretty rusty but it was fun catching up with my Tues. tennis pals and of course, at dinner after.

Wednesday – Fleet Feet again offered an after work run as part of their running club. I thought about it and I may go next Wed (It’s at Nine Pin Cider) but I decided to run locally again instead since I had errands to run. Luckily the rain had stopped but boy was it windy!!!

Thursday – An after work run at UAlbany with one of the Sole Sisters. Another windy night!! We froze. But always glad to have someone to run with.

Friday – Another rest day (even colder and still windy) and still home so I could go play mah jongg.

if case you’ve never played, this is what it looks like…just add lots of conversation and laughter…we are competitive and you can win from $.25 to $1.00 a game. High stakes.

Saturday – Long run Saturday with the Sole Sisters. This week, we met to run at the Corning Bike Path. It was VERY cold (teens) but at least the sun was out and the wind had died out. I ran my 10 miles with Judy (8 with Barbara) and I was glad for their company.

This week, our run was followed by a book club. We all read Let Your Mind Run by Deena Kastor and got together to eat and discuss the book. First knitting, now reading. What will our running group tackle next?

But on a sad note-

no words. just tears

Sunday – Today I ran in the Winters Series #3 Race. Usually I run the 10k distance but because I ran long the day before, I switched to the 3 miler. I’m glad that I did and it’s always a fun time (even though it was 2 with the windchill, my Garmin battery was dead and my shoe was untied for the whole race) since I get to meet up with so many familiar faces.

This Coming Week –

Monday – 3 miles, mall walk with BFF
Tuesday – rest day, tennis sub
Wednesday – 3 miles (FF Cider run?)
Thursday – 3 miles with SS
Friday – rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – 11 miles with my Sole Sisters (Feb. 10 half marathon training continues), anniversary dinner (20 years on 1/16)
Sunday -rest day

Please link up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Wendy @ Taking the Long Way Hom e

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Any big races on the horizon? Please share.

January 8, 2019 by Darlene

Bill Hogan Winter Series #2 Race Recap

January 1, 2019 Noon

Every year, the Hudson Mohawk Road Runners Club puts on the Winter Series, a series of free races for its members ($5 for non-members). On New Year’s Day, starting at noon, they offer the Hangover Half or 3.5 mile Bill Hogan Run as Winter Series #2.

In 2015, I ran the Hangover Half (as a training run.)

and it was a very cold one

Then in 2016, 2017 and 2018, I wasn’t that crazy and I only ran the 3.5 Miler.

It was definitely more enjoyable so I decided to run the 3.5 miler again. They call it a 3.5 miler but I realize each year after the race that it is actually 3.75 miles.

Starting at noon meant that I was able to enjoy my New Year’s Eve.

I arrived at UAlbany early figuring that there are a lot of local runners who do these races and I wanted to get a close parking space.

The weather was so much better than last year (even the re-scheduled race date was freezing). Today it was forecast to be in the high 40s but I worried about the wind on this course. It is always windy!

I took a big risk and wore a skirt. The good thing was that there is an indoor place to hang out before and after the race.

This race brings out everyone I know who runs – from running groups, races, friends, etc.

So it was great seeing everyone and catching up. I immediately bumped into runners that I know from races and lots of Sole Sisters. We hung out inside and chatted until the very last moment when we had to go outside.

I was hesitant about what to wear. I was afraid that my cap would blow off with the 40 mph wind gusts or that I would be cold without a jacket (which I brought). In the end, I went with my gut and I was perfectly dressed.

Eventually we did have to leave the nice warm building and climb down the stairs and head to the start.

I just squeezed in near the front in order to keep warm and be shielded from the wind.

I told myself to have a “relaxing” race and not try anything stupid and get hurt.

Hangover_Half-002-L

This course is not flat. There are annoying hills throughout. Nothing awful until you are tired (at mile 3).

pic from last year…no snow this year but no blue skies either

This was the first year that I can remember that there was NO ice or snow.

I won’t lie. I was a little cold especially with the wind but at times, I was warm and unzipped my vest. I even eventually took off my gloves. I was happy with my clothing choice.

There were about 230 runners running the 3.5 miler (and 225 in the half). I was never running alone. I ran with someone I knew several times when they caught up to me but soon they left me behind.

I wasn’t bothered at all by my apparent lack of speed. I was just trying to get a run in. I wanted to run the race without walking too since I rarely do that during my weekday training runs. And I did for the first two miles. In fact, I was feeling pretty good.

There were no mile markers on the course but I could hear my Garmin beep. I couldn’t pay attention to my pace or time because my Garmin was under my long sleeves. (Probably a good thing.)

another pic from a previous year

As I mentioned, I was feeling pretty good until mile 3. This was the most boring part of the course as well as uphill. To make matters worse, the wind was incredible here. There were times that I felt like I was not even moving forward. I struggled and the wind seem to suck the life out of my legs. Runners were passing me by, even a runner pushing a child in a stroller. I finally gave it and walked. But it was just as hard to walk into the wind and so I started running again. At this point, I just wanted to finish.

Finally, it was over and I was surprised to see that the clock read 33:XX minutes. I knew that it would not be a course PR but I actually thought that I was even slower than that.

So I sprinted and crossed at 34:14 (according to my Garmin) and 34:15 on their clock.

I was content!!

Soon after, Karen and Alyssa finished. We chatted and then Barbara and Judy came in.

We waited for Judy and then went inside. Somehow we missed Sherry.

These free races are not chip-timed. They handed you a piece of paper and then you recorded your time.

Mile splits:

mile 1: 8:50
mile 2: 9:01
mile 3: 9:27
.75 – 9:23

Good old positive splits. Nothing has changed for 2019. LOL

Again this year, the course was long!! I was surprised that in these windy conditions I was faster than last year (35:45) and not far behind my course PR from the year before (34:04). Nevertheless, I was happy with how I ran the race. I never felt really tired or that I was pushing hard. I think if it weren’t for the wind, I could have run the whole thing and had an even better finish time.

Definitely not disappointed to not have chosen to run 13.1 miles in this weather.

For a free race, they have decent refreshments – vegetable soup, bread, fruit, cookies, hot cocoa.

And I had all of the above and many pieces of cranberry bread.

I waited around for awhile and chatted with other runners and for Barbara’s niece to finish the half marathon.

They give 10 year AG awards to the top 2 in each group. Two years ago, I won 2nd place and a free loaf of bread. Not so this year. I was 5th.

So a race and a perfect way to start off 2019!

As you know, the Tuesdays on the Run link up has been retired. There is now a new link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner). The new link up is called Tuesday Topics and starts today!!

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

I’m linking also up with Coaches Corner–Debbie, Susie, Lora, and Rachel!

and Wild Workout Wednesday with Nicole, Annmarie, Jen, and Michelle.

Happy Running! Did you race on New Year’s Eve or Day? If not, when is your first race of 2019?