July 7, 2017 by Darlene

Al Goldstein Summer Speed Series 5K #4 Race Recap

Al Goldstein Summer Speed Series #4 – July 5, 2017 – 7:10 pm

If you follow my blog, you know that I often get sent to NYC for work.

Usually, I just try to squeeze in a run on the East River, Hudson River or in Central Park.

run from my last visit to NYC

For this trip, I found a race!!!!

Woo Hoo!

So apparently during the summer months on alternating Wednesdays at 7:10 pm, there is a cheap ($7.50 – in past years it was $5) 5k in Prospect Park, Brooklyn.

Here’s all I could find out about the race from the NYCRuns website:

We’re gearing up for another great summer of evening 5K races! You don’t have to be fast to enter, but these races will help you find out how fast you can be!
Big news for 2017: we now have chip timing! All runners will receive their actual race time.
Races will start and end at the Bluestone Cafe at Lakeside Center.
There, we will offer:

Bib pickup starting at 6pm

Bag check

Lockers available for a fee

Bathrooms (real ones!)

Water after the race

5 year Age group awards ceremony after the race

Plus some free photos off their site (from the last 5k):

Sounds like fun, right?

There were almost 600 runners at the last race!!! (but only 3 in my age group 🙂 )

So all I had to do is take a 2h45 hour train ride to Manhattan, check into my hotel, figure out what subway to take and get to Prospect Park by 6:30 pm or so.

suffering from a back ache during this inaugural poorly planned race (10/10/15)

I have run in Prospect Park once before for the RNR Brooklyn Half Marathon and I remember it being very hilly – like Central Park.

Below is the course map. However, I didn’t remember where the hills were…

But no worries. This was purely for another racing experience and hopefully a fun one.

So this time, there were no snafus in getting to the city from Albany. No problems with the hotel. All I had to do was figure out how to get to the race. No one at the hotel was helpful. I wanted to run over the Brooklyn Bridge and then go to the race.

F train to the B train

Unfortunately there didn’t seem to be a way if I did that I could also get to the correct subway (at least I wasn’t sure how to) to get to Prospect Park.

So I played it safe and took 2 subways and arrived at the entrance of Prospect Park. Very Early.

I walked over to the Botanical Gardens across the street but they were already were closed so I just walked into the park.

I had no idea how to get to the race start in this huge park but luckily I bumped into a race volunteer whom I followed.

I did a little exploring before I got my bib.

those are turtles (I hoped that I would not be running like one LOL)

yes, that algae is pretty disgusting

Finally I headed to the Lakeside Center (where there were local kids cooling off in the pool/fountain) to get my bib.

I was able to check a bag, use the (real) restroom, get some water and relax at a shady picnic table.

It was still an hour before the race was scheduled to start so that’s exactly what I did. It was very warm (in the mid 80s) and I made sure to drink water to remain hydrated.

Little by little, the runners arrived.

Definitely an interesting experience running in a new place where I knew NO ONE! The runners all seemed to look like the stereotyped “serious runner”. You know what I mean. (Later I would notice that 25 of them finished with less than average 6 min pace per mile!!)

Finally it was time to migrate toward the start in the park. It was quite a walk (close to a mile, I bet)

heading to the start

This year for the first time, the race provided chip timing. I still lined up not too far away from the starting line. Then chatted with some runners about the race. I found out that it started with a long uphill (but not steep like CP), then there were rolling hills and eventually it looped back to finish.

looking bored while waiting to begin

I should have warmed up but I didn’t And after sitting on the train for almost 3 hours, 45 min on the subway and then sitting at the café, my legs were stiff.

and I’m off…

I started running the first mile and I just couldn’t get going. Or maybe it was the heat or the uphill, but I was running so slow.

Mile 2 was better but there were no water stops. You had to stop at a water fountain in the park. I did not and by mile 3, I was crashing.

I had a walk a few times but when I saw the clock at the finish line, the competitive me came out.

I got up enough energy to sprint and finish a few seconds over 28 minutes (which turned out to be 27:52 chip time.)

No water at the finish line. You had to walk back to the café. So I just sat in the shade for a while to catch my breath.

Once I felt better, I started walking following the runners.

Well, it turned out they were leaving the park. I was walking in the WRONG direction.

I had to return to get my bag and I wanted to check the race results.

By this point, I got a second wind and ran back to the finish and to the café.

I checked the results and was surprised that I was FIRST in my age group.

27:52 – finished 250 out of 378

I didn’t have to wait long before they started the awards ceremony. The finish times were amazing!!

And the founder of the race, Al Goldstein was there and took a photo with each winner.

BTW: He is 96 years old!!

A nice lady took my photo and I hers. She won her 65-69 age group.

: July – Brooklyn 5k

We chatted for a while. It was her first summer series race. She was babysitting her daughter’s apartment nearby. And she was nice enough to walk me to the subway. (A much shorter walk if you entered at the right entrance.)

It was late by the time I got back to my hotel. (And I got to see the Brooklyn Bridge from the subway as we rode outside over the East River!)

But I did enjoy my first Brooklyn 5k!!

Race Splits
mile 1- 9:15
mile 2 – 8:45
mile 3 – 9:04
.14 – 7:09

Yes, my Garmin finally recorded my lap times!!

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

My topic for this Friday is: Why Run an Impromptu Race is a New City

It gets you moving (running.)
You don’t have to figure out a safe running route.
You run in a new place.
You meet new people.
It gets you out of your comfort zone.

Of course, I was tempted to relax in my hotel room, enjoy a nice meal in a restaurant, visit a museum or even take in a show.

But I am glad that I took on this new adventure. (Nothing ventured, nothing gained, right?)

Happy Running! Ever run a race solo in an unfamiliar place?

June 30, 2017 by Darlene

Adirondack Distance Run Recap

Sunday, June 25, 2017 – 7:30 a.m.

A ten mile race consisting of rolling hills from Lake George Village to Bolton Landing.

this doesn’t seem accurate. I remember a steep hill bet miles 4 & 5 and several the 2nd half

I always look forward to this race. I’ve wanted to run this race ever since I started running.

: 2016 – 1:42:21

: 2014 – 144:39

Except for 2014 and 2016, something has always come up: work conference, strained achilles, broken ankle, broken foot, flight cancelled & stuck in Baltimore.

This year, I signed up but I was not really prepared for a 10 mile race. I had been racing 5ks (last two weekends) and working on my speed. My last long run was over a month ago for my half marathon on May 21. My running had also been on mostly flat surfaces. In addition, I was in NYC for work during week and that among other things had me skip runs. I didn’t run at all on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday or Saturday. So I missed two training runs. C’est la vie!

So yes, I decided to run this race but not as a race but just as a hilly long run….take it slow and enjoy the scenery. What else could I do? (I don’t DNS unless I am injured or sick.)

The race started at 7:30 am in the village of Lake George and ended in Bolton landing (next door to the marina where we keep our boat.)

the beach on the right is the end of the race

I had a few options. There was a bus leaving Bolton Landing the morning of the race at 6-6:20 am so I could have spent Saturday on the lake with my hubby & friends and sleep on the boat. But I decided instead to stay home and drive up very early Sunday morning. I wanted to get a good night’s sleep and get things done around the house.

So I got up around 4:45 am on Sunday morning and was on the road by 5:45 for my one hour drive to the race start.

It was already warm – close to 70 and sunny. I better to get used to running in the summer temps.

I got there and found parking in the same small lot as last year and walked to the fire station to pick up my bib. Then I walked back to my car to get rid of the race tee shirt.

this year it was long sleeved

Back at the fire station, I used the rest room (there were real ones) and waited outside until start time. I was surprised at how many people were racing – over 200 (but fewer than previous years) and all the fast runners who were there (from the local running clubs.)

I bumped into some runners whom I haven’t seen in a while, Annette from STEM, Sue my NYC roommate and Karen, one of the SRMs, Jenny from ARE among others and we chatted until it was time to line up.

with fellow STEM mentor

The race was not chip timed so I tried to start not too far back but behind the speedsters.

The first mile goes through town and is the only flat portion of the race.

I’m in the pink hat and socks

As I mentioned, this course is hilly but it is also very scenic (not Utah scenic but nice for aroid these parts). I planned to focus on the scenery to take my mind off the hills.

I also made sure to watch the uneven pavement since you had to run along the side of the road and there were many ruts. And the traffic. The road was not closed so you had to pay attention to cars and trucks going by.

As I mentioned, I had NOT trained for this race and the last thing I wanted to happen would be to strain or hurt a body part. I stopped at every water stop (there were 5 or 6.)

that’s me gulping water but seeing a camera LOL

and I walked part of every hill. I played leap frog with a lady in orange. On the uphill, she passed me and on the downhills, I passed her. We laughed about it. She would yell as she went by me “See you soon. I know you’re going to pass me!”

see, I told you walked!!

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not me! I wish… (photo by Donald Yeaton)

The course is beautiful. A view of the lake was on your right side for most of the race.

Except for the beginning and end mile, the route was shaded by trees. That helped a lot since there wasn’t a cloud in the sky and the sun made it fell warmer than it was.

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photo by Don Yeaton

I kept glancing at watch (finally had a working one) and even with all the walking, I was still running around a 9:30 minute pace for the first 5 miles.

Then I started to get tired and my lack of training became obvious.

The hills were steeper the first half but the second half seemed harder. The hills kept coming and coming. And of course, I got a blister (I forgot to put moleskin on – my bad!) on the usual spot on my right foot.

But for the most part, I felt great – no foot pain, no back pain, no aches at all. I guess I could have pushed harder. But there didn’t seem to be a reason. I felt strong and was enjoying the race.

I knew by the last few miles that this race would be a PR. However, it did look like I would have a course PR. I was psyched!

I finally made it to where you turn right into the park to get to the finish line. I was surprised to see my hubby there cheering me on. (No photo, though). Of course, at that point I ran as fast as I could.

The official results say that I crossed at 1:39:35. Slower than my 1:38:45 PR but almost 2 minutes faster than last year. A Course PR! I’ll take it!

Everyone got medals which is always a plus.

I was so happy to have finished. I was pleased with my time.

I bumped into some friends again. We headed straight to the water to soak our feet in the cold lake water.

ahhhhhhhhhhhh

A great end to a great race.

view of our marina from the race end

my friend Jenny still cooling off

Then I grabbed several pieces of watermelon and some pastry. The watermelon really hit the spot.

They randomly marked bibs for runners to receive door prizes. AND I WON!

not something I will ever use but hey…

Also for this race, they gave out awards to first place in EVERY age rather than an Age Group. They had a screen with the race results scrolling and I saw that there were two 64-year old women faster than me so I didn’t stick around.

64 year olds

I walked next door (how convenient) where my hubby was waiting to head out on the lake. I spent the rest of the day relaxing in the sun on the water

and on one of the islands (reading a book) where we docked for awhile.

see the SUPs?

I was starved (Running 10 miles does that to you!) so we docked our boat at a restaurant and had an early dinner.

: view from the restaurant

: dinner – turkey & bacon panini with a salad (don’t worry if that’s looks healthy. I had a rootbeer float later

: us

So back to the race…

NO Splits. They showed while I was running but they did not record. (I’ll get this watch thing figured out if it kills me…)

I really loved running this race. It is the road that I drive every weekend during the summer to go boating. I know every inch of the route.

Maybe next year, I’ll actually train for it and race it. (Wait, I said that last year. LOL)

As I already mentioned, this race was on my bucket list and now it is on my race to run every year list.

My topic for today is:

WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THE ADR

Lake Views
Shady route
Watermelon for post-race refreshments
Soaking your feet in the lake post-race
10 miles is a great distance (Aren’t the last 3 miles of a half marathon the hardest?)

WHAT I DON’T LOVE ABOUT THE ADR

Hills
Uneven Pavement at times
Traffic on the road while you’re running
No age group awards
Not chip timed

All of the above are minor in my book. Can’t wait for next year!

Happy Running! How was your weekend? Did you run or do something else fun? Do you like 10 mile races?

June 27, 2017 by Darlene

TOTR: June Report Card

So sporadic spring weather continued and even at times, it appeared to be summer-like. But there was also a lot of rainy days!!

Here’s how June turned out:

Weekday Runs:

I was able to run at least 3 times outdoors each week which is great because I do not have a treadmill at home. I prefer to run 4 times but sometimes it just doesn’t happen.

I ran at UAlbany (near work), at the Crossings, near home, in a local park and even at the Corning Bike Path. I even ran 3 times while in NYC for work and once while in Liverpool, NY for work.

: 4 miles along the East River in NYC

: at the Crossings

: on the Corning bike path

I ran alone some of the time. But Alyssa was able to accompany me often. It’s definitely more fun running with friends.

My Freihofer training group runs ended and I had only one STEM volunteer run. So my running schedule was freed up which allowed me to run where, when and with whom I chose.

My co-workers decided to get together once a week to run after work – either Wednesday or Thursday. But for the most part, I was unavailable.

Long Runs:

No half marathons to train for so my long runs were not very long or very good.

: 5k + 4 = 7 miles for the day

: 5k + 5 = 8 miles

Total Mileage:

I ran 67 miles this month so far (will probably end up with 77-78). Some skipped runs and no half marathon this month can be blamed for the low mileage. Still healthy so all is good.

yes, a slacker even with a half in May and 10 mile race in June

Races:

I had four races on my schedule this month – three 5ks and a ten miler. The Freihofer 5k is my favorite race and I had fun and a course PR. I ran the Run for Help 5k to help a STEM runner complete his first 5K and it was such as rewarding experience. The Whipple City 5k was a new one that I enjoyed. As usual, the Adirondack Distance Run was a challenging 10 miler but a annual favorite and I had a course PR!!

: Freihofer 5K – 27:48

: Whipple City 5k – 27:30

: Adirondack Distance Run (10 m)- 1:39:35

Cross Training:

I now play tennis outdoors on Tuesdays (when I am able.)

I did go to work out at the gym several times. My goal was twice a week, though. I didn’t quite achieve that.

I did walk several times a week at lunch – around the outdoor shopping mall or the nature trail. Not everyday like I used to.

Other News:

I went to NYC for work twice. I took advantage of the fantastic places to run while I was there. I also saw two Broadway shows (War Paint and Ground Hog Day).

The hubby and I continued our boating on the weekends. I even got to squeeze in hiking one day.

Running is not my whole life. I think it is important to make time for other things that bring you pleasure.

yes, family and friends take priority!

Feeling healthy so Life Is Good.

Looking Ahead:

No more half marathons planned until October 1 in Corning, NY. (But you never know…)

I have quite a few shorter races planned. My race season has kicked into high gear. I am even planning on two new races in NYC!!

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

7-05-17 – PPTC Al Goldstein Summer Series #4 5k (in NYC)
7-09-17 – Saratoga Strong to Serve 5k
7-22-17 – Silks n Satins 5k
8-05-17 – Race the Train (8.4 m)
~~8-12-17 – Camp Chingachgook 10k~~ working instead
8-14-17 – Monday Night Mile??
8-20-17 – Paris Run 8K (in NYC)

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

No monthly goals.

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

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

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

Today’s Topic is: Give your running month a letter grade.

I’d say overall an B+.

You know, fewer weekly miles, sporadic gym attendance, slacking on those long runs, skipping weekday runs. I can do better.

What do you think?

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

coachescorner

June 26, 2017 by Darlene

Running Update – 6.19.27-6.25.17

Last Week:

Monday – Thunderstorms on and off all day but I was headed to NYC for work and hoped the rain would be over by the time my delayed train arrived. Nope, it was raining even harder. No running in Central Park for me. But I decided that I couldn’t sit in my hotel room all evening so I took my umbrella and walked 23 blocks and saw a Broadway show.

It was the only show available on a Monday and I was in the last row (but center). The price was right and the show was very enjoyable. Ever see this movie with Bill Murray?

Tuesday – Still in NYC for work and stuck indoors but at least it had stopped raining. Of course I went for a walk during lunch and a run after work.

it doesn’t get better than this unless I didn’t have to work or I didn’t fall beforehand LOL

Covered 12 miles today. Half walking and half running with a fall caused by a dog thrown into the mix. Not hurt. Just more scars to my knees and elbow.

Wednesday – Another long work day in the Big Apple. No time to run before my train home.
Thursday – Back home and a rest day due to a hair appt after work.
Friday – A short run before my weekly mah jongg game. Boy, was it humid.!!

even I was sweating and I don’t sweat much

Saturday – Rest day and catch up day around the house. But I did sneak out to go to the gym, Starbucks, the grocery store and a movie (Paris Can Wait).

Sunday – Today I ran the Adirondack Distance Run, a hilly 10 miler from Lake George Village to Bolton Landing (where we keep our boat.) It was tough but I loved it!! And I even had a course PR.

I won’t lie, my lack of hilly training and long runs made it tougher than it should have been but I was happy with the results.

Afterwards we spent the day on our boat of course with dinner out on the lake.

perfect weather to relax with a good book, with a good view and a great dinner

20 miles done with 3 runs and 4 rest days

This Week:

Monday – rest, dinner (junior abroad reunion)
Tuesday – 3 Miles at Ualbany
Wednesday – 4 Miles with Alyssa
Thursday – rest, tennis dinner out or STEM picnic
Friday – 4 miles, mah jongg
Saturday – rest, gym or boating
Sunday – 6 Miles, boating?

Once again, I am linking up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Tricia @ MissSippiPiddlin. See rules here.

This week’s guest host is Zenaida Arroyo.

Happy Running! How is your running going?

June 23, 2017 by Darlene

Friday Five 2.0 – Summer Treats

Today’s topic is: Summer Treats

1. Outdoor Dining

I love being able to eat outdoors. I don’t do it at home but I do when I eat in a restaurant or at our marina.

2. Soft Ice Cream

Well, I like any kind of ice cream But open soft ice cream stands are a sign that “summer” has arrived.

3. Cute Clothes

Let’s face it, who likes to wear all those layers… sweaters, scarves, coats, boots….

Just give me a sundress and flip flops!!

4. Racing Opportunities

In the winter months if you don’t like in a warm climate, it is slim pickings.

But in the summer, I can pick from a number of races each weekend. I can make my decision based on location, distance, type of course, day, etc.

one of my favorite summer races (it’s this Sunday!)

5. Sunshine and Longer Days!!

This always makes me feel better. I hate cold weather and it seems to last longer and longer each year. or maybe I have less patience dealing with the ice an snow.

Without snow and ice to deal with, my choice of running locations open up. Check out some of the places I run here. Plus it is no longer dark when I get out of work. I can run anywhere I want!!

on the rail trail

Happy Running! What is your favorite summer treat?

June 19, 2017 by Darlene

Running Update – 6.12.17-6.18.17

Last Week:

Monday – I had the day off and I planned to run. But I changed my mind and decided to spend Sunday night on our boat and do some hiking the next morning.

First I planned to hike Thomas and Cat Mountains. But it was too hot humid and buggy so I skipped Cat.

The hike to the top of Pinnacle was shadier and shorter so I did that one. It was so worth it.

The rest of the day, I hung out at the beach with a book.

Tuesday – after a long day at work, it was brutally warm and humid so I decided to skip my run and just play tennis outdoors. It was fun and we got two sets in before the rain. Then we went out for pizza.

Wednesday – another long stressful work day but finally a run after two days off.

at UAlbany

Thursday – Another warm humid day and I got to run with Alysa which is always a good thing. We decided on the Corning Bike trail for a change of pace. Things were great until it started to pour. Just made us run faster.

4 wet but speedy miles in my favorite SkirtSports tank

Afterward I met my bff for a walk in the mall.

Friday – A scheduled rest day (and a rainy one) with a trip to the gym before my weekly mah Jong game.
Saturday – Today I ran the Whipple City 5k race which was a new race for me. There were quite a few to choose from but I had heard about this one and two of my running group friends were doing it. It was fun although the humidity almost killed me.

27:30 – 2nd in my age group

Afterward 2 cups of chocolate milk and 2 donuts, I headed to Saratoga Spa State Park with the intention of running 6 miles. My legs said no way so I ran and walked about 5.

Sunday – I spent Fathers Day with the hubby up on the lake. We went out on our friend’s new bigger boat rather than ours. And I got a surprise when I found out that my college roommate and her husband were in the area for a wedding. Great day.

15 miles done with 3 runs and 4 rest days

This Week:

Monday – run in NYC?
Tuesday – run in NYC?
Wednesday – run in NYC?
Thursday – rest, hair appt
Friday – 3 miles, mah jongg
Saturday – rest, gym, errands, nails
Sunday – 10 mile race, boating

Once again, I am linking up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by these wonderful bloggers Holly @ HoHoRuns and Tricia @ MissSippiPiddlin. See rules here.

This week’s guest host is the lovely Tara @ Run and Live Happy.

WWGuest-Tara

Happy Running! How is your running going?

June 18, 2017 by Darlene

Whipple City 5K Race Recap

June 17, 2017 8:30 am

There were several different race options for today. Some I had run before and some I had not.

I decided on Whipple City in Greenwich because I had heard good things about the race and it was north so I could possibly continue up to the lake afterward. Also two of my running group friends usually run the 5k.

There was also a hillier 10k option but I decided to run the 5k and then add more miles after (if my legs and the weather cooperated.)

As I may have mentioned many times, I recently PR’d for the half marathon but my 5ks have stagnated for years… Most of 5ks times have been 27:XX and in cool weather on flatish courses. If I didn’t have those conditions (like today), my times would be slower but hopefully faster than 30 minutes.

So today, I planned to run at a consistent pace and enjoy the course. I hadn’t done any speed drills in about month so no PR goals for this race. Depending on who showed up, I may have even been able to snag an age group award.

I probably wasn’t thinking clearly because going to this race, which started at 8:30 am, meant that I had to leave my house at no later than 6:45 am. According to Google, it was going to take 1h 9min. There were local races that started later and only 15 minutes away. (Crazy lady I am!)

So I got up earlier on a Saturday than I do on a normal work day (Oh, the things we runners do…) and found the location with no problem.

race started in front of the middle school

The weather was cloudy, warm and very humid with showers/thunderstorms forecast for later in the day. I wore my normal summer running outfit of a skirt and a tank. We got a gender-specific tech shirt which I went back to store in my car.

In no time at all, I spotted my two running group friends, Holly and Jackie. They wanted to do a warm up run but I declined. (Gotta save my legs for the race and after, right?.)

So I hung around the school and chatted with a few other women that I knew. It was a fairly small crowd. About 100 running the 5k and only about 15, I think, in the 10k.

race start and finish

The race was described as “a scenic course past village homes and beautiful countryside in Greenwich, NY” and the course (see map below) as out & back, mixed flat & hills, roads.

Both Holly and Jackie, who have run it, before confirmed that the 5k started out uphill and then there were rolling hills but a pretty course.

We started near the front since it was not chip timed and soon after the rifles (above) were fired, we were off.

Whenever I run with Holly, I know not to try to keep up. She always starts out fast and she beat me by 3 seconds in the Freihofer;s 5k but I have beaten her in the past.

And true to form, out ahead she went. My legs felt like I was running in cement. Maybe I should warm-up?? Uphill I dragged myself and tried to keep Holly in view.

Then I realized I never started my watch. Oh, well. Another naked race!

It seems to bother me more not knowing my pace in a short race for some reason. There’s not a lot of time and I don’t know if I should slow down or speed up.

The worst part of the race was the humidity…UGH!!

There was water around mile 1.25 and I took a quick drink. But when I passed it the water again on the way back, I stopped and walked for a while.

I wasn’t far behind Holly until that walk. But I knew that she usually loses some steam toward the end (which she did).

I caught up to her but didn’t have enough left to pass her.

She beat me by 3 seconds! Again!!

My time was 27:30. (No split times to share 😦 )

I was pleased. It was faster than I thought I would run this race. And I thank Holly for pacing me.

We hung around waiting for the 10kers to finish and then watched the kids run the 1K.

Of course, I treated myself to two cups of chocolate milk and two donuts.

Battenkill brand, my favorite!!

Holly and I are in the same age group. She got first and I got second.

All in all, it was an enjoyable race. I’m not sure I will run it again because of the driving distance (and the awards are only a ribbon) but maybe.

My hubby decided to not go boating until the next day so I had all the time in the world to do more running. Besides, I did have a 10 mile race in a week (and lots of rain forecast for the coming week.)

So I drove to Saratoga Spa State Park and planned on running at least 6 miles.

Unfortunately, my legs did not agree with the plan. They were soooo tired. That is very unlike me. I don’t even feel that way after a half marathon.

I’m not sure why…humidity? lack of sleep? stress at work? fast 5k???

Anyway, I tried to run. But I had to walk…a lot and quit after 5 miles. I guess it was better than driving home and taking a nap.

Isn’t the park beautiful? Mineral springs, waterfalls, trails, etc.

Happy Running! Anyone race this weekend?

June 15, 2017 by Darlene

Run for Help 5K Race Recap

June 11, 2017 – 10 am

I wasn’t as active in this spring’s STEM program as I would have liked (due to work commitments) but as I did last year, I decided to help the STEM runners and registered for this race.

There were a few races scheduled for this weekend (plus boating) that I would have liked to do but as soon as I arrived at the race, I knew that I had made the right decision.

Running is not all about PRs and finish times. Sometimes you have to give back especially since running has given me so much.

: 2016’s race

Last year, we didn’t actually participate in the race. We ran along side our runner but never crossed the finish line.

This year, however, we did register and pay for the race. We would be running it in order to help a STEM participant achieve their goal.

Because I wasn’t planning to “race” the race, I ran 8 miles the day before.

I was glad too because race day was even hotter and more humid (and the race didn’t start until 10 am!!)

I arrived early to pick up my packet and meet up with all the other volunteers and runners. What is awesome is that in addition to the new STEM runners, many of the old ones continue to return for races. It’s a STEM reunion too.

I also ran this race in 2009. I am a sucker for “causes.” And this is just as important or maybe more important than a medical one.

It started out 10 years ago as a race for “Liza” who had been killed by her abusive husband but it is now also dedicated to Nikki who suffered the same fate.

The race is very well organized and offers lots of raffle prizes and even…

Eventually we went outside to take some group photos and then to pair up with a STEM runner. In my particular group, most of the STEM participants had dropped out and we had more volunteers than runners.

I got paired with our one ‘male” participant, Mike, who usually does his own thing in trainings (instead of Couch to 5k). He said that he wanted to finish under 30 minutes. I told him that I was there for him if he needed help.

Soon we moved to the start line and got ready to begin.

As I mentioned, I was not planning to run fast. And Mike just took off. Well, it was hot so I just ran my own pace, stopped to tie my shoes and walked at all the water stops. Luckily on this hot day, there were many (maybe 5 or 6).

The course starts out flat on a country road but when we turn left, there are rolling hills (2 steepish ones). I didn’t wear my Garmin (because I wasn’t going to be racing) but I did my best to run slowly up the hills. Everyone was sweating…even me.

What I love about this out and back course is that you get to see all the slower runners. And in this case, all the purple shirts. I high-fived them and screamed encouragement as I ran by.

Eventually, I caught up to Mike, he was walking. He said he had a side cramp. I walked with him and encouraged him to get some water and start running again.

And he did. I ran ahead so I could cheer him through the finish line.

Yes, he did cross under 30 minutes!! We were both happy.

I remained at the finish line to watch all the other happy faces cross and get their medals.

hot hot hot

Then I took my sweaty body to my car so I could sneak out. I didn’t even stay around for the awards.

this race was NOT about me anyway

My hubby was waiting for me at the lake but I felt happier (for these runners) than if I had run a PR. (There will be more times to run a fast 5k.)

ahhhh!

Since it is Thursday, I’m linking up today with Amanda for Thinking Out Loud Thursday.

thinking out loud

Happy Running! Ever run a race for someone else besides yourself?

June 5, 2017 by Darlene

Running Update – 5.29.17-6.4.17

Last Week:

Monday – A chilly rainy day so I caught up with things around the house, went to the gym and did some errands. A needed rest day on Memorial Day.
Tuesday – A scheduled rest day and I played my last indoor tennis.

I had thought I could squeeze in a run (hence my running skirt/capri) but it started to rain AGAIN.

Wednesday – Off to NYC for work. I took the train and after I checked into my hotel, the rain had stopped so I hopped on the subway and went for a run. I intended to go to Central Park but wound up on Riverside Dr. so ran along the Hudson River instead..

running along Riverside Drive

Then that evening I went to see a show on Broadway.

The story of Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein

Thursday – Indoors all day for work but I did squeeze in a walk during lunch and another run in the evening. This time along the East River. Central Park will have to wait until my next trip to NYC. (June 19).

running along the East River Greenway

In the evening, I just walked around the area.

Bryant Park, Empire State Building and bumping into a former student on the street = ❤ nyc

Friday – Another day in NYC for work. Took a walk at lunch and then took the train home in the evening. Rest day #3.
Saturday – Today I ran the Freihofer’s Run for Women, my favorite local race. The energy of this race is addictive and I always meet so many new and old faces.

I met AJH who I had no idea was coming to run (from VT) – no PR but a decent time – 27:48 (13th in my AG)

I added another 5K afterward to complete my ZOOMA Virtual 10k race.

just a leisurely additional 3.8 miles retracing the course plus some photo stops

Then the hubby (who had been playing tennis) and I headed up North to meet some lake friends for dinner.

Sunday – I would have liked to go boating again today but the weather did not cooperate. So I went to the gym and did some errands.

15.5 miles done with 3 runs and 4 rest days

This Week:

Monday – 4 miles
Tuesday – rest, travel to Liverpool for work, tm??
Wednesday – rest, work in Liverpool, travel home
Thursday –6 miles with Alyssa
Friday – 3 miles, mah jongg
Saturday – rest, boating
Sunday – 5k race (volunteering for STEM) + 5 miles

I’m linking up with Mary Beth (on behalf of Holly and Tricia) for the Weekly Wrap. Please join us!

Happy Running! How is your running going? Is your weather cooperating?

June 4, 2017 by Darlene

Freihofer’s Run for Women Race Recap

June 3, 2017 9:o0 am

This is the only race that I’ve run every year! This was my 10th time!!!!!

My first FRW was in 2008 (my first year of running). At the time, it was the farthest I’d ever run:

Due to construction, they changed the course two years ago.

They say that this course is faster…less congested and has a less steep hill at the start and finish.

course map

I did run the new course the past two years and I liked it.

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heading to the finish line

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.

And this was also my third Freihofer Training Challenge…

2017 group (oops I missed the pic).

Training is a loose term. I kinda just showed up. Monday runs were always after a Sunday long run or race and I never attended any of the Saturday runs.

But I was excited to be part of it and support all the runners who would be finishing their FIRST 5k. And see my “advanced” buddies who would hopefully PR.

Every other year, 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 nice expo with vendors and health-related. But this year, I was in NYC for work so I had to depend on my hubby to pick things up for me at a new expo location.

yes we got free bread and a box of cookies

For convenience, I parked at a yoga place on race morning and walked to the start. I do this every year. However, with the new course, it was an even longer hike. Like 2 miles!

It was strange to walk down Madison Avenue and not see the race banners and not see the giant poster on the bridge.

pics from 3 years ago…

And the weather…it was not forecast to be as warm as previous years but at least it wasn’t raining. (The race started 30 minutes earlier than last year just in case we actually had warm weather. I wasn’t thrilled since I got home from NYC late the night before.)

I wore a jacket and my DIY sleeves to stay warm before the race. As I was walking down Madison, I spotted a van with a Vermont license plate. It was my friend AJH with a bunch of friends. The race was a retirement gift. How cool!!

surprise…and we even matched.

So on the way to start, we cut through the Empire State Plaza to use real restrooms. The we made our way to the Empire State Plaza so they could get their bibs, shirts, cookies, etc. (My tennis buddy was sick so I had to get hers as well.)

By this point, I had missed my training group photo, but I didn’t care. It was great to see AJH and chat.

We finally got to the race location and I located the Challenge Group Tent and met up with friends. I also shed my jacket and sleeves (although it did start to sprinkle.)

Sue & Hollys among the many training challenge runners

I also ran into a few local runners, bloggers (Judith and Vicki.) and even some Skirt Sports ambassadors.

Catching up with everyone made the time go by quickly and soon it was time to line up.

Although it was very crowded, there were fewer runners than when it was Madison Avenue but it did seem to be more than last year (new organizers and more advertising.).

Times Union photo 2016

Anyway, with the new start (on a wider street), it didn’t take as long to get moving and the first hill was longer but not as steep.

I started with Hollys but let her get ahead. She always starts out fast. Right from the beginning, I had the feeling that my legs were moving but so slowly. I was also sneezing and sniffling (hopefully it’s allergies not a cold.)

When I got into the park and looked at my time, I was shocked at how slow it was. Usually mile 1 is my fastest.

I took this pic after the race

I continued to trudge along and couldn’t wait to walk at the first water stop around mile 1.25. (I wasn’t really thirsty so just took a sip and continued running.)

This course had you run around more of the park and it also seemed to avoid the bigger hills of the park.

I tried to pick up the pace for the second mile since the crowd had thinned out. I told myself that I would not walk until the next water stop. That was around mile 2.5. At this point, I was starting to get some energy.

I had lost Hollys since she had gotten way ahead but all of a sudden, I could see her in the distance.

Finally we left the park and headed downhill to the finish. Not the steep downhill that we used to have with the old course, but at least it was downhill.

Runners cross the finish line for the Freihofer's Run for Women Saturday June 3, 2017 in Albany, NY. (John Carl D'Annibale / Times Union) Photo: John Carl D'Annibale / 40040636A

Hollys is in white. I am in the distance. (photo from TU)

I ran as fast as I could and even passed Hollys. But I started my sprint too soon. By the time, the finish line came into view, I was pooped. Hollys passed me and I crossed at 28:04 (gun time.)

Not a PR (and I was not expecting one) but a decent time and faster than last year.

I grabbed a bagel and some chocolate milk. It was definitely less congested than when it was by the fountains on the Plaza. No long lines for food.

yum!!!!

I ran into even more runners again that I knew.

the Mayor who had a 2 min, PR

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.

I walked back to the Training Challenge Tent to get some more food and chatted with friends for awhile.

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 just ran a half marathon and I am no spring chicken. Plus my time was faster than the past two years (29:22, 28:50). So I was happy with that.

Splits:

mile 1- 9:13
mile 2- 9:03
mile 3 – 8:25
.18 – ??

Chip time – 27:48

There was computer set up so you could check your time and see you won an age group award.