Races

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Weekly Wrap for 5.14.18-5.20.18: Race Week

ru

No traveling this week…amazing but it still was a busy one.
Last week –
  • Monday – I was supposed to have jury duty but I didn’t have to appear today. So I was able to attend Week 9 of the Freihofer Training Challenge group run. Being a taper week for me and having run 12 miles in the previous two days, I hesitated going and definitely about doing the Advanced speed workout. So I went and ran with the beginner group. A slow easy 3.5 miles. Just perfect. And I got to run and chat with a friend Denise who has been injured and I haven’t seen in ages.

  • Tuesday -Again I didn’t have to report for jury duty. So I was able to play tennis after work.  Rest day for running (after running 3 days in a row and besides it was raining. My tennis lessons over vacation must have helped but we won both sets.
  • Wednesday – Finally reported for jury duty. I did take a long walk to the court instead of paying for parking or taking the bus. Not selected as a juror because I asked to be dismissed (chose to report again in Dec.) But no running again due to a hair appointment.

I missed Tulip Fest due to rain and these are past prime but still beautiful

  • Thursday – Back at work and because I was in town, I had signed up with my co-workers (as I did last year) to participate in the Workforce Challenge. Ten thousand runners in a 3.5 mile race downtown.  Crazy, right with a half marathon in two days!? So to make sure that I didn’t race, I didn’t wear my watch.  And I met someday who works upstairs from me who wanted a running partner to get her through the race. She’s much slower than me so it was perfect. We chatted and chatted and dodged the walkers. I may have finished 10 minutes slower than last year but who cares?
  • Friday – Took the bus to NYC with my running buddy Sue and subwayed to Brooklyn to check into our hotel, go to the expo and get ready for race day. That included a delicious pasta dinner in Coney Island.
  • Saturday – Race Day. Brooklyn Half Marathon. I had been looking forward to this race for years. Not as a goal race but for the experience. Running around Prospect Park and finishing at Coney Island. What was not in the plan was the RAIN!! Cold pouring rain and wind. It was so bad that Sue quit after mile 5 and took the train home. I persevered and finished. The last 4 miles were painful but I didn’t succumb to hyperthermia.

not my best nor my worst but at least fast enough to qualify for 2019 NYC Half.

Alone in the city on a rainy day so I opted to have a nice lunch and go to the movies.

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  • Sunday – Rest Day. We were hoping for boating weather but the nope, rainy  Instead we did go out to a nice brunch to celebrate both of our May birthdays (and both qualifying for Medicare.)

This Coming Week –

  • Monday –  train to NYC for work, 4 miles 
  • Tuesday – rest day
  • Wednesday – 3 miles or Al Goldstein 5k (in Brooklyn)
  • Thursday – 3 miles
  • Friday – rest day. train home
  • Saturday –  6 miles
  • Sunday – rest day, boating?

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

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Anyone ever have jury duty?  What about running a big race in the rain?

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2018 Tropicool 5K Race Recap

May 6, 2018- 7:30 am

As you may remember, this race took place during my annual non-running tennis vacation in Naples, Florida. I take lessons and play tennis every morning and then spend the afternoon on the beach.  Each evening I go out for drinks, dinner and dessert with my tennis friends. Eight days of pure relaxation and enjoyment… (every May since 2005)

I love it.  It’s usually my only vacation that doesn’t include a race.  You have to admit that racing during a vacation does add an element of stress.

Last year we changed our dates. We were in Naples two weeks earlier and that meant that the temps were only in the 80s (not the 90s) and that the racing season was not over yet.

I happened upon a 5k race that took place on the Sunday during our stay. One of my friends offered to get up at the crack of dawn and drop me off and another offered to pick me up.

I unexpectedly bumped into a tennis friend who had moved to Naples and despite the heat, did fairly well.

And so I registered for the same race this year.

Here again is the description of the race and the course map:

Enjoy a wonderful 5K race that showcases the beautiful streets of Olde Naples. This course is two loops starting on Broad Street.

I’m not a fan of loops but at least it was only a 5K and I don’t remember it bothering me.

As she did last year, my friend Catalina agreed to drop me off at the race start.  I was familiar with the race location so I didn’t need to arrive as early as I did last year.

The day before the race, on the way to dinner, we stopped at a local running store so I could pick up my bib. Instead of a tee shirt this year, they gave out mugs.  🙂

We went out to an awesome dinner which included a few glasses of wine.  (Oops I don’t usually drink the night before a race but I was on vacay…) Then we went to the theatre followed by a stop at an ice cream shop.  Obviously, it turned out to be a later night than normal.

Sunday morning, I groggily ate my usual race breakfast at 5:30 am.  I got dropped me off in town around 6: 30 am. It was still kinda dark and there were still not many runners there.

i bumped into a runner from NJ and we started chatting. We decided to walk a few blocks to the water and take each other’s pictures.

Around 7 am, We walked back to the start and hung out there. This was not a big race.  There were about 350 runners – all ages and very friendly.

The sun was now out and it was starting to get warm.  But it was not as warm as it could have been.  I checked the weather app on my phone and it said 100% humidity!! Holy cow!!!

As you can see from the map, the course winds around town and through the neighborhoods twice. And it was flat!!

I had no plan for the race – just finish and get back to my tennis friends so we could get on with the day’s activities.

From the get go, my legs felt like lead but my biggest problem was that I had a hard time breathing and I felt dizzy. Was it the heat?  Most likely it was not being acclimated to the humidity. I couldn’t wait to get to the water stop… It seemed like forever but I think it was during mile 2.  I stopped and walked for a while (longer than normal). I actually felt worse after walking so I ran and tried to just get to the finish line without puking.

Eventually it appeared and I gave it my all.

I was shocked when I crossed at 27:xx. I felt so much slower than my last few 5ks.

As soon as I crossed, I saw my tennis friend Rebecca who ran the race last year. We talked for awhile while waiting for the results to be posted.

Last year I was 3rd in my age group. So imagine my surprise when they called my name for Senior Grand Masters Winner.

Apparently the speedy old ladies from last year did not run the race.

Race Splits:

mile 1 – 8:35
mile 2 – 8:57
mile 3 – 9:03
.14 – 7:14

Two of my friends who were not playing tennis came to pick me up after the race. Since the others were playing tennis and taking a lesson, we had plenty of time to hang out in town.

We walked to the famous Naples Pier and then went out to brunch on Fifth Avenue.

I am especially glad all the logistics worked out.  I got back in plenty of time and my friends and I enjoyed a lovely rest of the day.

So back to the race…

The course was small so there were spectators cheering all along it.  Although we looped, I didn’t find it boring because I didn’t even notice.

I enjoyed running around Olde Naples and especially along Gordon Drive where you could see the Gulf at the end of each cross street.

I am so happy that I ran this race again.  I loved the course and it was very well-organized. (I am sure that I’ll return next year.)

It’s Tuesday so don’t forget to link up with these wonderful ladies:

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

I am also joining up with Running on Happy, Suzlyfe, Crazy Running Girl, and Coach Debbie Runs for the Coaches’ Corner linkup

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Happy Running! Ever run a 5K race while on vacation?

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Weekly Wrap for 4.30.18-5.6.18 and 5.7.18-5.13.18 – Back to Reality

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I’m baack!
Did you miss me?
Here’s what’s been going on since the last weekly wrap:

Two weeks ago –

  • Monday –  Off to NYC by train.  Once I had set up Queens and returned to Manhattan, I planned to squeeze in a run before dinner. But the weather wrecked my plans. Cold wind and rain. Nope. No run for me.
  • Tuesday – After work, I hopped on the subway to run in Central park. Finally spring like weather. Or more like summer. 80 degrees and the Park was packed with runners, beautiful flowers and fragrant smells.

  • Wednesday – Rest day due to having to get the train to return home, pack and get ready to leave on vacation the next morning.
  • Thursday –  8 am flight to Florida. We landed in Ft Myers and picked up a rental car to drive to Naples.  This is our 12th tennis trip here so we have a routine and it felt like coming home – unpacking, grocery shopping, relaxing by the pool, dinner out, chatting, sleep?
  • Friday – My first Florida run – holy humidity! My goal was to run at least 3 miles most days before a tennis lesson and doubles play.  After tennis we pack a lunch and spend the rest of the day on the beach, soaking up vitamin D, reading, playing Scrabble or strolling along the water – heavenly! Every evening we go out to dinner at a different restaurant. Tonight’s choice was the Ritz with a view of the sun setting on the Gulf.
  • Saturday – As I did yesterday, I went for a run, played some doubles and then had a tennis lesson. We thought it might rain (which it never did) so we stayed at the pool rather than going to the beach. Then we went out to dinner, to a play and out for ice cream. I could get used to this life.
  • Sunday – The group played tennis and had a lesson. I instead ran a 5k race. No surprise there. The surprise was how hard it was to run in 100% humidity. Lucky for me, the older ladies from last year weren’t there so I was the women’s senior grand master champion. To celebrate we walked to the Naples Pier and then went out to brunch.  Again it was a busy day (We had to record a song for the ladies who couldn’t make the trip – re-written lyric to You always on my mind) so we relaxed at the pool and then went out to dinner.

Last week –

  • Monday – It may sound boring but it was more of the same.  A run, followed by doubles, a tennis lesson and then we packed a lunch and spent the afternoon at the beach.  In the evening, we watched our tennis instructor play in a tournament and then went out to dinner.
  • Tuesday – It’s tough when every day it is sunny and warm. So I ran, played tennis, had our last tennis lesson and went to the beach for the last time. Tonight we had dinner but brought our desserts home because it was book club night (we discussed The Girl Before.)
  •  Wednesday – My BIRTHDAY! And the day was absolutely perfect.  I ran 6.5k and I played tennis after. Then we packed lunches and headed to Oscar Sherer State Park for a picnic and a hike.  Next we drove to Sarasota to visit the Selby Gardens (and see the Warhol exhibit).  We ended the day with dinner on the water.
  • Thursday – Last day of vacation.  No running today.  We played tennis instead and hung out at the pool unitl we had to leave for the airport.
  • Friday – Back home. Back at work. I needed a vacation from my vacation.  Too pooped to even play mah jongg. Instead stayed home, unpacked and did laundry.
  • Saturday – Race Day. Summer Smith Memorial 5K. A cold, miserable rainy day.  So tempted to stay in bed (with my headache) but I didn’t.  Of course, I got soaked but still glad I ran this race.

course PR and 2nd in my AG

I spent the rest of the day (not at the Tulip Fest as planned) but with the girl I mentor and her two sons.

  • Sunday – Mother’s Day! Of course, I had to go for a run. It was cool and cloudy when I started but it warmed up and the sun came out. With a half marathon in less than a week and no run longer than 8 miles done, I thought I might run 12.  Ha Ha! My legs said “no way” and I struggled even getting 9 miles done (with lots of walking). Let’s hope I can rally next Saturday!

50 cents ice cream cone – I couldn’t resist.

Th rest of the day was filled with laundry, grocery shopping, gardening and a late lunch with the family at my MIL’s  house.

This Coming Week –

  • Monday –  jury duty (postponed), 4.5 miles (FTC)
  • Tuesday – jury duty? 3 miles, tennis
  • Wednesday – jury duty? rest day, hair appt.
  • Thursday – Corpoorate Challenge Race (3.5m)
  • Friday – rest day
  • Saturday –  Brooklyn Half Marathon
  • Sunday – rest day, boating, hubby’s birthday

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

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? How did you celebrate Mother’s Day? Please share.

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Cherry Blossom 5K Race Recap

April 29, 2018 10:15 am

This was the fourth year that I have run the Cherry Blossom 5k.  It is a fun local race, raises money for a great cause (ALS) and I really like participating in it.

The first two years, I won 2nd in my age group. The third year, I did not win anything but I had run a 10k the day before and I didn’t run it last year. I seem to be on a PR roll for some unknown reason. But who knows? Anything can happen in a race on any given day.

The course is very winding.  Someone said that there were 20 turns. But it is also pretty flat except for the last mile which is uphill.

As you can see, my times on this race course have been pretty speedy (until 2016). Could I beat my 2014 time??

And should I try?  After all, I just ran a 5k PR last weekend and I have a half marathon in a few weeks.

Nevertheless, I was determined to give it my best shot and not to be disappointed if I sucked.

They always have a short sleeved race shirt. One of these years, it’ll be warm enough to wear one of them. Instead, I wore a long sleeved shirt, a vest, a skirt (yes, this was risky), compression socks and a cap. I brought 2 jackets, capris and gloves for before and after.  It was near 40 degrees but the wind made it feel colder and it was raining!  A miserable day!! Not one that I wanted run on.  The crowd was smaller than previous years but still there was over 300 runners.

The race started at 10:15 and I got there around 9:15 and parked in a bank parking lot across the street. I had picked up my bib on Friday after work so I could relax in my warm car. The other Wineglass ladies running the race were parked nearby so I headed to their car. I wisely added my capris under my skirt, my jacket and my gloves.  It was drizzling then raining and then drizzling. We all stayed in the car until the last minute.

only Chris came prepared for the rain

Unfortunately at this Cherry Blossom race each year, there are never any cherry blossoms.  (Maybe next year!) There is also usually a Cherry Blossom Festival, as well.  I didn’t see one this year.

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2015 but similar to this year

You were supposed to line up by pace. I moved up with the 8 min milers and shivered until the race finally started.

pic from the Gazette (I’m in the front)

 

I usually have a pretty fast first 2 miles and then slow down but I was dragging even during the first mile. My legs were stiff. It was windy and I was cold!!

There are no clocks on the course so I had no idea what my pace was but I was pretty sure that it was slower than my PR pace of last weekend.

The course is nothing special. You just wind your way around the neighborhoods.  I tried to run the tangents as much as possible. And make sure to avoid the puddles and not slip on the wet ground rounding the turns.

It rained lightly during the whole race.  But I actually got warm and unzipped my jacket and took off my gloves.

There was a water stop at the halfway point.  I ran through it since I was not thirsty and wanted to finish and get dry.

Eventually that dreaded third mile came and the uphill was a struggle as it is every year.  This  year, however, I did not walk.  But I definitely felt like I was slowing down.

pic from the Gazette

 

pic from rainy 2016

Finally we headed toward the finish line.  I had no energy left but did my best to sprint across the line.

I crossed at 27:XX.  My PR streak has been broken.

I was slower than my last 5K but it was my fastest time on this course. I was content.

I had some refreshments (bagel, banana and chocolate milk) while waiting for the results and my friends to finish.

cold, wet but happy

They all headed to their warm car and I chatted with other running friends and waited for the results.

I was shocked to come in first.  I have never won my age group in this race and the runner in third is way faster than me (However she is apparently coming back from an injury).

 

Race Splits:

mile 1- 8:42
mile 2 – 8:57
mile 3 – 8:47
.14 – 7:51

27:17

So those splits don’t reflect how I felt while I was running.  I didn’t feel like I was running my best.  To me, that is good news.  There may be a faster 5K time in me…

The wineglass ladies headed off to Dunkin Donuts. I thought about it but I had been planning to run 9 more miles after the race.  I was cold and grumpy and did not want to run any more so I drove home.

Once I got home, the rain had stopped and it was in the 40s and less windy.  With work and my upcoming vacation, I knew that I should try to run some more so out I went.  The conditions were better than during my run but my heart was not in it. I walked a lot and quit after almost 8 miles.

 Upcoming Vacation – 

14th trip to Naples, Florida.  Lots of tennis, sun and beach time. Maybe some runs (and don’t be surprised if I squeeze in a 5k race)

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I leave on May 3 and return on May 10 (9 days before my next half marathon).  Can’t wait!!

Happy Running! How was your weekend? Any races or runs? Any races coming up?  What are you looking forward to? Please share.

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April Report Card

Image result for goodbye - hello may

April started out just like March – Cold and windy. Then there was rain, snow… There was NO cherry blossoms for my race at the end of the month. We did squeeze in a few nice days here and there.

Anyhow, here’s how April worked out for me:

Weekday Runs:

I was able to run at least 3 times outdoors most weeks which is great because I HATE the treadmill. As I mentioned April was a windy, rainy, chilly month.  

I ran locally a few times after work.  The good news is that I was able to run while working in NYC and while in Buffalo, Rochester and Liverpool.  The best thing about my job is running in different places. My weekday runs were usually around 3-4 miles (occasionally more and occasionally less).

Long Runs:

Work and the weather has made it tough to get in my weekend long runs. This is peak racing seasons so I usually just add miles to my races.

Total Mileage:

I ran 80 miles this month.  An decrease in miles basically because April is a shorter month and I did not run half marathon this month. The important thing is that I am feeling healthy so all is good.

Races:

I had several races on my schedule this month. I ran two local 5ks and a local five miler. All were fun and I met up with several friends at each. I also had a PR at the Delmar Dash 5 miler and came in a surprise 3rd in my age group. I also had a surprise PR at the Bacon Hill 5k and won my age group. I didn’t PR at Cherry Blossom 5K but it was a course PR and I surprisedly won my age group

Cross Training:

Due my work schedule, I did not play tennis at all. I miss it and my friends.

I did work out at the gym once. Shocking. I know.

I did not attend a yoga class. Someday….

The month just got away from me and I was hardly home during the week. Then on the weekend, I was playing catch up.

I did not walk at lunch. But working in NYC does get me a lot of steps.

Other News:

Despite all my work travel, I was able to squeeze in some friend time and hubby time. These are usually spent with dinners in a restaurant.

The Freihofer Training Challenge began last month and goes for ten + weeks and I was able to go only twice. I guess I shouldn’t have signed up this year. (Miss my coach and my running friends.)

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

Half Marathon #31 in May.

It’s a big one and it’s been on my bucket list for years.

Image result for brooklyn half marathon 2018

May 19, 2018

I have some shorter races planned as well. My racing schedule picks up in the spring.

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

  • 5-06-18 – Tropicool 5k (in FL)
  • 5-12-18 – Summer Smith Memorial 5k
  • 5-17-18- Workforce Challenge (3.5 m)
  • 5-19-18 – Brooklyn Half Marathon
  • 6-02-18 – Freihofer’s Run for Women 5k
  • 6-10-18 – Run for Help 5k
  • 6-17-18 – Finest Memorial 5k
  • 6-30-18 – Adirondack 15K Race to the Lakes

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

Deb Runs
No monthly goals.

This motto worked for 2016 & 2017 so I’m sticking with it in 2018!

I’m linking up with these wonderful ladies:

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

My Topic is: Give your running month a letter grade.

I’d say overall an A-

Despite the work travel and crazy weather, I did my best to get in my runs. Strength training just never happens so I’ve decided not to beat myself up about it. I ran 3 shorter races and had PRs in two of them. I also won an age group award in each. 🙂

Real spring can’t come soon enough for this fair weather runner. I want to see flowers and leaves on the trees!

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

Happy Running! How did your April turn out? Anything exciting planned for May?

What grade would you give your running month?

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Weekly Wrap Up for 4.23.18-4.29.18 – Another Week , Another Race

ru

 Away for work only TWO days!  Woo Hoo!  Still busy with bridemaid dress shopping and a race!

Last week –

  • Monday – No travel today so I was able to attend the Freihofer Training Challenge run (for the 2nd time although they are on week 6.) As usual, it’s a workout that you love to hate. We did do six 800m repeats at 5k pace.  My splits ranged from 4:24 to 4:15 and got progressively faster so I was pleased (even though I lagged behind my friends LOL).

Afterwards, I met my BFF for a walk in the mall.

  • Tuesday – Off to Liverpool for work.  I was able to get a run done before dinner and the predicted rain. Who knew it would be 75 degrees. Thank God for clouds and lake breezes.

I went back for a walk after dinner but no sunset due to the clouds.

  • Wednesday – Another rest day due to having to drive home after work. It was another rainy April day anyway.
  • Thursday – Back home and hoping for no rain and an outdoor run. No rain but clouds and WIND!!!

  • Friday – Another cool rainy day. Hopefully April showers will bring May flowers. I wanted to run but my backup plans were to pick up my race bibs, go to the Spring Run Off pasta dinner and then play mah jongg.
  • Saturday – Rest Day. I had signed up for a race (Spring Run Off 10k) but family comes first.  My stepson is getting married and my daughter-in-law to be asked me to help her bridemaids pick out dresses (Her mother had knee replacement surgery and could not come.)
  • Sunday – Race Day. Cherry Blossom 5K. Of course Saturday was a beautiful morning for a race. Today, it was COLD, windy and RAINY. A miserable day to run,  Many of my friends did run it so I am glad that I didn’t bail and I had course PR and won my age group.

I was cold and grumpy so I went home after the race.  The rain stopped and it wasn’t as cold and windy so I sucked it up and went back out to finish my “long” run for the day.

There was a lot of walking but it is done and I can relax.

This Coming Week –

  • Monday – Train to NYC, 3 miles
  • Tuesday – 4 miles
  • Wednesday – rest day, train home
  • Thursday – rest day, fly to FLORIDA!!!!
  • Friday – 3 miles, tennis, beach, sun & fun
  • Saturday – rest day, tennis, beach, sun & fun, theatre
  • Sunday – Tropicool 5k, road trip

The Week After – 

  • Monday – 3 miles, tennis, beach, sun & fun
  • Tuesday – 3 miles, tennis, beach, sun & fun
  • Wednesday – 3 miles, tennis, beach, sun & fun – MY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!
  • Thursday –  3 miles, tennis, fly home
  • Friday –  rest day,mah jongg
  • Saturday – Summer Smith Memorial 5K + 7 miles
  • Sunday – rest day, dinner out for Mother’s Day

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

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Has spring arrived where you live? Please share.

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Friday Five 2.0: Run. Not Race.

It’s Friday so I’m linking up with Running on Happy & Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to use the new FIVE MINUTE format, link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

Last Friday I wrote about why I race a lot. This week, I’ll look at the other side of the coin:

FIVE REASONS NOT TO RACE OFTEN

  1. MONEY

Yes, racing is not cheap.  Running is FREE!

Running & Eating – lots of fun without a race

    2. INJURIES

If you are competitive, like I am, it’s hard to slow down when you are in a race. You may not stop when you should.

Racing with a metatarsal stress fracture

  3.  SCHEDULING (TIME)

Unfortunately, you can’t change the time or date of a race but you can run whenever you are able. And where ever you choose.

just squeezed it in after work and before a dinner engagement

 4.  LONG RUNS

I am the first to admit that a long run completed by adding miles in after a long break because you were running a race is not ideal when training for a big race.  Plus, there is the race pace followed by the tired leg pace.

5k + 3.9 = 7 miles

5. DRILLS AND WORKOUTS AND TESTING NEW THINGS

You have to get them done during the week.  Those hill repeats, tempo and progression runs will not happen in a race. And as you know, you shouldn’t wear or try anything new during a race.

new top, new skirt (too loose!!), new shoes – oh no!

Happy Running! Do you run a lot of races? If not, why not?  Please share.

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2018 Bacon Hill Bonanza Recap

Every year, I plan to sign up for the 10k and then I chicken out.

10 K

I know that the hills would be good training but… the 5k is an out and back and mostly flat.

5k – not as flat as it looks

So I changed my mind again and registered for the 5k and then planned to run 7 hilly miles after.

I ran this race for the past four years and loved it. They had great food – the usual food but also chili and homemade muffins & cookies (including gluten free ones).

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And there was chocolate milk, fresh from the dairy.

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Plus, I won a homemade pie as first in my age group for the past four years. 28:56, 28:01, 27:54, 27:32. Yes, it seems that I am getting faster but not sure about this year??? Lately I don’t feel very fast.

The race started at 10 am which was good since it would be an hour drive from my house.

But I woke with a horrendous headache and an upset stomach.  I thought about an DNS for about a second.  Anyway it was only a 5k and I knew that running could make me feel better.

Again the weather was tricky. What to wear? I was brave the first two years and wore a skirt, a baseball cap and no gloves. It is April, right? Then the past two years, it was cold and I resorted to capris. This year, the race was scheduled at the end of April instead of the beginning. So you would think that it would be warm out already …NOT!!

This year I decided to  continue with the capris. Although it was chilly (30s) in the morning, I hoped that it would warm up by the time I raced (and after). But I did bring along gloves and a jacket.  (Spoiler alert: it did warm up but the wind made it feel cold.) The best part about today’s weather was the sunshine.  It had been days since we had had any.

I got to the race early and found a parking spot in a (muddy) field next to the church. The race started at the church in the town of Bacon Hill, a small farming town with awesome scenery. (It reminded me of Vermont.)

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these pics are from other years…everything still looked the same)

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It was chillier than I thought. It was in the 30s but windy… Brrrr!!  I quickly put on both of my jackets and got my shirt and bib. I also dropped off my free raffle ticket.  (They had some really great prizes.)

I wasn’t sure that I would know anyone at this race since the runners that I usually run this race with were not coming (Holly who was in the Turkey Trot training group and now the FRW training group said that she had to work this year. Another runner friend, Sue, whom I am running Brooklyn with was in Florida and my friend Judith just ran the Boston Marathon.) So I just stopped by the timing truck to say hello to my FTC coach who as usual asked me if I was going to PR.  I replied: “I doubt it but it’s all about the pie.”  You get a pie if you win your age group. And I wanted to keep my pie streak going.

Then I ran back to my car to keep warm until almost time for the race to start.

At the last minute, I decided to shed my jacket and tossed it under a tree.

Although I prefer to start most races near the front, there were sign with paces. I was embarrassed to stand with the 7 minute runners so I moved back to the 9 minute mile sign. That’s when someone tapped me on the shoulder. It was Maureen, a friend that I ran the Shape Half with last year.  She is in my age group and a lot faster.  Fortunately for me, she had decided to run the 10k.  We chatted until the race began.

The pastor read a prayer, the church bells rang and we were off.

The 5k was an out and back. The 10k veered to the right and supposedly had killer hills but breath taking views.

I decided to go out fast. I always have positive splits so why try not to. It isn’t as flat as the map shows. The hills are rolling throughout but not that bad. Even I could run up them.

Unlike last weekend, I really slacked off on my weekly runs.  In fact, I didn’t run Wed, Thurs, and Fri – yes three days in a row without running which is so unlike me. Part of it was weather-related but mostly I just didn’t feel like it.

I loved all the signs along the route. Many of them were riddles.  I wish I could remember them but they were a nice distraction.

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the cloudy sky pics are from last year

This one as my favorite:

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The wind was annoying. It was at times hard to keep moving forward. And my legs really protested my attempt for speed. I felt my short lay-off.

There were volunteers on the course calling out times.  I was shocked at how fast my first mile was because I was really struggling.

Eventually we turned around and headed back… It would seem natural that now the wind would be at our backs.  But no, it seemed to be blowing from the side.

There was a water stop but I wasn’t thirsty and just wanted to get to the finish and warm up. I realized quickly that I had gone out too fast.  I could not keep up that pace but may be just maybe I could finish fast enough to win that pie!!

the finish line is right next to the cemetery

As I approached the finish line, I realized that I may even PR!! Holy Cow!

I crossed at 27:04 Gun Time.  I beat my 2014 5k PR time by 7 seconds!! I was in shock.

I glanced at my Garmin which would have been chip time and it said 27:01.  I ran to tell Patrick. He grinned that “I told you so grin.”

I grabbed my jacket, put up my hood and immediately made a bee line for the chocolate milk. Boy, was it good. I had 3 cups.

They had the same great food (chili, muffins, cookies, fruit) like last year but no vegetarian dish and no pizza. I had some cookies, chili and a corn muffin.

PR + chocolate milk makes a happy runner

I hung around the finish line though I was pretty cold (because of the wind). I did bump into another runner that I knew. She was waiting for her husband to finish the 10K so we waited together.

Here comes Maureen with a great finish time as well.

Finally they posted the results. Mine was listed as 27:04 and I was first in my age group. Maureen was first too. We were both glad that we had chosen different distances. That way we both won our age groups.

Two years ago, it was so cold that they let you just get your award and leave but this year, we had to wait and they announced them one by one.  Brrrr…

I waited with Maureen and her friends. And I won a pie again!

Check out those race times.  If I had not Pr’d, I would not have won this year.  I always say that it’s not your time but who shows up. (Everyone in this group is new to this age group.  I age up in a few years!!)

Race Splits:

mile 1- 8:44
mile 2 – 8:56
mile 3 – 8:56
.11 – 8:30
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27:01 (Garmin time)

fueled by sunshine!

All in all, I loved this race. I will definitely do it again…maybe even the 10K someday. I was thrilled with my time.  A course PR. A 5k PR. What could be better?  More importantly, I felt like I didn’t go all out and who knows maybe there is a sub 27 5k in my future???

I put the pie in my car and contemplated my planned 7 additional miles.  The scenery is beautiful here but with the wind, I decided to drive to some place where I would be more sheltered from the wind and where it would be flatter.

2016 pic

So I drove to the Zim Smith Trail. It is lined with trees, flat, gravel coated and there’s the incentive of a post run treat at Leah’s Cakery.

Scenes from my run:

It was tough.  My legs were tired and stiff so this was a walk/run at best.

10 miles done! Hooray!

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

 Happy Running! Did you run or race this weekend? Do you have spring weather yet?

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Weekly Wrap for 4.16.18-4.22.18 – Recovery

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Recovery in the sense of recovering from the sudden loss of my favorite cat (Still feel like crying All.The.Time).

Last week – 

  • Monday – I drove to Rochester today for work . It was a miserable, cold, windy rainy day (The weather here will not let up !!) My only resort was the hotel treadmill and it was not fun. (I wish that I were as tough as the runners in Boston! Yay Desi!!)

  • Tuesday – Yes, woke up to snow! Worked all day hoping for a light at the end if the tunnel and not have to run in the treadmill again. It was snowing lightly but not sticking so I headed to the trail along the Erie Canal.

3 miles – not bad on the way out but the wind killed me on the way back. When will spring be here?

  • Wednesday – Another rainy dreary day. I had to drive home after work but I thought I might stop and squeeze in a quick run followed by Abbott’s Custard like I did last fall:

Well, the bridge to run over to get to the trail along the canal was under construction.  I drove around a bit but then parked and tried to find access to the trail but I was on the wrong side.  I couldn’t even find Abbott’s Custard. It was COLD so I gave up. I ran maybe a mile and then headed home.

  • Thursday –  The same lousy weather continued and maybe this affected my running mojo but I decided to skip my run and instead I went out to dinner with my tennis friends.  We try to get together monthly with whomever is available.

  • Friday – Still did not feel like running and rested for third day in a row. I did play mah jongg in the evening.
  • Saturday – Race Day. Bacon Hill Bonanza 5K. I wasn’t sure how it would go since I had a lackluster running week. But racing always helps me get back on track. I woke up, however, with a headache and upset stomach.  Thought about a DNS (for about a second LOL) and then drove an hour to the race. My FRW coach was there and asked me if I was going for a PR. I laughed and said “No but it’s all about the pie.”  If you win your age group, you get a pie and I have a pie streak going.  It was chilly and pretty windy but believe it or not,  I RAN A PR!  Good thing because if I didn’t, I would not have gotten my pie.

fueled by sunshine and post race chocolate milk

Afterward the race, I still had 7 more miles on my schedule.  But I left and drove to the Zim Smith Trail where I thought that I would be more sheltered from the wind.

This was not easy and involved quite a bit of walking but the scenery is pretty and I parked at Leah’s Cakery (enough said)

  • Sunday – My friends were racing but after 10 miles the previous day, even I decided that it wouldn’t be smart.  Instead I went to the gym, then for a walk before I did join the racers for lunch.

This Coming Week –

  • Monday – 4 miles FTC, mall walk with BFF
  • Tuesday – drive to Liverpool, 4 miles
  • Wednesday – rest day, drive home
  • Thursday – 4 miles
  • Friday – 3 miles, mah jongg
  • Saturday – rest day, bridemaid dress shopping trip
  • Sunday – Cherry Blossom 5k + 8 miles

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

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? Has spring arrived where you live? Please share.

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Delmar Dash Five Mile Race Recap and a Tearful PR

It is nice to run a race that is only 10 minutes from your house.

This is my 6th time running this race. Last year, my back was bothering me so I didn’t run it and in 2012, I had a broken ankle. Otherwise, I try to run it every year. If you notice by my clothes, the weather has gotten colder every year.

It is a flat course so my times have been fairly decent:

2016 – 47:14
2015 – 45:26 (PR)
2014 – 48:14
2013 – 47:39
2011 –  47:08

Now only if spring would arrive. We’ve had a few warmish days but not today!! This was what they predicted:

Cold temps, rain, sleet and wind!!!

But most importantly was that my cat died suddenly the day before. I had gotten very little sleep since he had taken ill Thursday night and really did not feel like running!!!

Staying home and being sad and depressed seemed like a worse option than running a race.

So I told my hubby that I was runing the race and I would run it for Slater, my cat who just died.

It’s always hard at this time of year to decide what to wear.  Too cold for spring clothes but I am tired of jackets and tights. I opted for a windbeaker over a long sleeved shirt, a skirt attached to capris, compression socks, a cap & gloves and hoped that it would be enough.

The forecasted rain and sleet had not arrived by the time I had to leave for the race.  Maybe I would get lucky and it would hold off until the afternoon.

I got there early and got a spot in the parking lot. I knew a few people doing this race so I went inside the school to look for them.

The race started on the street but ended in front of the school entrance

I forgot to pick up my bib and shirt the day before so I picked them up and then looked for my firends.

I bumped into Judy and Chris and we chatted for a bit.

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I also chatted with several other runners that I knew. Because of the Boston Marathon and the weather forecast, there weren’t as many runners as usual.

It was too cold outside so we waited until the last minute.

My hope for the race was to have a decent finish time. That would be under 50 minutes. I had a PR three years ago and I doubted that I could beat that especially without doing any speed work  Besides, I wanted to stay healthy for my next half marathon on May 19!!

I lined up with some faster runners including Carolyn who is in my age group and another younger runner whom I followed at my last 5 miler, the Shamrock Shuffle.

Of course waiting for the race to begin, I was cold but I was fine as soon as I started running. My hands were cold for awhile but even they warmed up.

I tried to start out fast but not too fast.  Though I never know what this is. And I probably did since my legs seemed to have zero energy today. I was so SAD! I felt like crying but I told myself to run the race for Slater! And that kept me going.

I tired with each mile but tried my best to keep it up. The younger faster runner had on a yellow jacket again this race and it was my beacon. I tried to keep her in my sight although I know I would never catch up to her.

she is the one in yellow

There was someone calling out times at every mile so I knew that I was not running well.

By the water stop at mile 2.5 or so, I was tempted to walk but again as I did in my previous two races, I decided to push it and NOT walk at all.

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Dr Tom’s pic from 2016

I was really draggin during mile 4 but by mile 5, I looked at my Garmin and realized that just maybe I could PR.  I thought “Wouldn’t it be cool to PR for my cat?”

My eyes were teary and my nose was running (I didn’t know until after the race, that my nose was bleeding over my white gloves!!)

I finally saw the finish line and crossed at 45:XX (Officially 45:09). Defintely faster than last year and maybe a PR, I thought!

I waited until Judy and Chris finished and then went inside to get some food. I had some soup, bread, birthday cake and hot chocolate.  Judy and Chris got massages.

I came in 3rd in my age group.  I was surprised since I never place in this race.  And the prize was a champagne glass!

Splits: (according to my Garmin)

mile 1- 8:44
mile 2- 8:56
mile 3- 8:56
mile 4- 9:18
mile 5- 8:57
mile .04 – 6:50

45:09

Yes, a PR!  By 17 seconds!! I’ll take it. As one ages, these PRs are hard to come by.

Since this course is flat and near where I live, it is still one of my favorite races and I will run it again next year. I am so happy to have gotten a PR and I’m sure that Slater had given me the energy to do so.

Though after the race, it felt colder and windier, I needed to run 4 more miles…ugh!!

I drove my car and parked near the rail trail. Unfortunately, it was getting late and I needed to get home so 3 miles was all I could get done!

That makes 8 miles for the day…

5 weeks until my  next half marathon.

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

 Happy Running! How was your weekend? Any running or racing?

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