June 18, 2024 by Darlene

TT: Summer Racing Plans

Many of the races that I plan on running this summer are ones that I have run in past years and most are local.

Of course, if I didn’t have to start training for the NYC Marathon on July 8, there would be many more races!!

06-15-24 – Valley Cats Father’s Day Home Run 5K (2023 recap)

06-22-24 – Adirondack 7M Race to the Lakes (2023 recap) – Decided to skip it this year.

07-04-24 – Firecracker 4 (2023 recap)

07-13-24 – Silks & Satins 5k (2023 recap)

07-16-24 – Al Goldstein Speed Series 5K (2022 recap)

07-28-24 – High Lawn Farm Keep Moo’ving 5K – NEW RACE
08-03-24 – Ice Cream Social 10k (in NYC) – NEW RACE

08-14-23 – Run for the Roses 5k (2022 recap)

08-31-24 – Run 4 the River Half Marathon (2023 recap)

09-07-24 – Malta 5k or 10k (2022 recap)

Big Goal:

Cape Cod Half Marathon in October!
NYC Marathon in November!

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

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

June 15, 2024 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 6.9.24-6.16.24: Back You Know Where…

Yup, FIVE days in NYC (for work)…

Lots of hours spent working…

Of course, I always try to squeeze in a run or some social activity in the evening.

As they say: All work and no play…

Last Week –

Sunday – I was hoping to spend the day on the lake, reading and relaxing.

I woke up to pouring rain so I went to the gym. I spent even more time there than normal (walking 15 laps on the track).

I bought sandwiches in case the rain stopped and we could spend some up on Lake George.

I know the garden and lawn needs rain but enough already…

And yes, the rain finally stopped.. a little breezy and cooler but no complaints on the views…

Monday – I took an early train to NYC (for work the next day.)

I checked into my hotel, changed into running clothes and headed out…

I planned on taking the subway uptown and then run back along the Hudson to meet my friend but there were delays so I ran there instead…

yes my running friend has a broken foot so we just spent hours chatting…

Tuesday – Long work day in Jamaica, Queens.

Instead of rushing back to Manhattan to run, I went to the theater…

it was excellent!!

Wednesday – Another long day in Jamaica.

Tonight I had dinner plans with a college friend.

Fortunately, she couldn’t meet until later so I got in a few miles near Hudson Yards and along the Hudson

my hotel went all out for Pride week

and then I met Cari (where she works) and we walked together to my college friend’s apartment…

dinner and drinks with a view

Thursday – Still working all day in Jamaica…

I had dinner plans with a friend but they fell through… so I took advantage of the extra time and took the subway to the Harlem end of Central Park…

I just ran/walked around until the sun was going down…

Friday – After work, I rushed back to Manhattan to catch my train home.
Saturday – Father’s Day Home Run 5k.

Yes, I was pooped after the week in NYC but I’ve run this race with my friend Heidi the last few years

and without thinking, I signed up again.

I dragged myself out of bed and I was so glad that I did. This small local race has so many perks: tech shirt, post race barbecue, nice age group prizes, 4 free tix to a baseball game, free ticket to the strawberry & wine festival…

And I bumped into so many runners that I knew…

though my time was a race PW, I came in 2nd in my age group… the hat was the prize

Afterward we joined our running friends (who did not race) for brunch (I only had iced coffee).

I gave Heidi my baseball tix and she gave me her festival ticket.

After I showered and changed, I spent the rest of the afternoon at the festival…

tasted so many delicious wines and spirits…

Sunday – Hopefully my regularly scheduled program: GYM, day on the lake

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – DAY OFF, run, walk with BFF
Tuesday – GYM, walk with friends
Wednesday – DAY OFF, run, pool date
Thursday – run, ~~Trail walk~~ charity wine tasting
Friday – GYM, mah jongg
Saturday – Long Run ~~and Brunch~~, Boating
Sunday – train to NYC (AGAIN!)

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Summer Racing Plans
Friday – 5 Favorite Running Songs

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this summer? Any travel plans? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

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

June 4, 2024 by Darlene

2024 Run for Women 5k Race Recap

June 1, 2024 – 9:00 AM

This is the only race that I’ve run every year! This was my 17th time!!!!! (In 2020, it went virtual so actually my 16th in-person FRW race.)

It has always been held the Saturday after Memorial Day except in 2021, when due to COVID, the race was moved to September. In 2022, it again returned to its regular date.

on their webpage…can you spot me in the pink cap?

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

I mentored a beginning running group of moms in 2010 which was very rewarding:

Unfortunately, I’m the only one from this group who still runs.

In 2012, it was my first run after serious ankle surgery:

and this photo made the cover of our local paper.

I even ran it in 2013 after breaking my foot at mile 1:

And in 2019, it was the last race for my VT friend Andrea (who died of cancer).

As you can tell, there is a lot of history attached to this race for me.

In 2020, I was named an Ambassador. That honor continued through 2022.

Cari, recognize where that photo was taken?

Believe it not, I even chose to skip my high school reunion in 2022 in order to run this race!!

This year, however, I wasn’t as excited about the race as in previous years… sprained ankle, several slow half marathons and lots of doubts about fitness/racing. Especially shorter races since my last 5k were weeks ago…

And they changed the name of the race!!

It’s now called the Sara Lee Delightful Run for Women.

Nevertheless, I knew that I would do this race (no matter what they called it). I’m pretty sure I will always do this race!!

Pre-Race Preparations and Activities:

As with this race every year, I never know what will happen… I could break my foot again (as I did in 2013) or could have a course PR as I did in 2018. Most likely, it will just be a fun run with lots of women.

And this was also my ninth year participating in the ~~Freihofer~~ Training Challenge (TC).

photo from 2022

This year, I decided again to become a Mentor. I wanted to support all the runners who would be finishing their FIRST 5k. And connect with my “past TC” buddies, as well.

I volunteered on Wednesday evenings on the rail trail near where I live.

Many years ago, the day before I would walk to the Empire State Plaza concourse at lunch to go to the expo and pick up my race packet. They used to have a really big expo with vendors and health-related exhibits. But the past few years, they have held it at a local college.

As I did last year, I signed up to volunteer on Friday evening at packet pick-up

I was able to get the bibs & shirts for 7 of my running friends

even though the race name changed, we still get Freihofer cookies (along with Sara Lee bread)

and then I skipped playing mah jongg in order to prepare my #flatme.

Cat-approved outfit

If you read my WRD, you know that I had food poisoning that night and was very doubtful about running the race the next day.

Race Day:

I hate parking garages and traffic so I usually parked on the street and walked to the start. However, with the new(er) course, it was an even longer hike. Like almost 2 miles!

But I used to love to run down Madison Avenue and see the race banners and see the giant poster on the bridge.

pics from 6 years ago…

They changed the course nine years ago. This course is supposedly faster…less congested and has a less steep hill at the start and finish.

elevation according to my Garmin

I did run the newer course the past eight years and I also liked it better than the original..

11390014_10204734206056106_2523342973555152804_n

heading downhill to the finish line

This year, my running friend, Deb, offered to drive as for work she has a nearby parking space. I gladly accepted.

As I mentioned above, this was my 17th year for the race and I really wanted to continue my streak. Plus, I had my friends’ bibs.

I know it sounds crazy but I decided to go to the race. If I felt sick, I would hang out in the TC tent (near the porta-potties) and if I felt ok, I would WALK the race.

Obviously, running the race was out of the question…

So we met at 7:15, Deb drove and then from the parking garage, we walked to the start area. I quickly found the TC tent…

I got there in time for the photo (missed it last year. LOL).

just the “mentors”

Though, I didn’t enjoy mentoring as much as I thought I would, I was happy to be part of this amazing group of women.

I still had time to chat with many runners and meet up with my local running friends.

we call ourselves the “Sole Sisters”… Barb’s daughter and Heidi’s MIL joined us.

I was scheduled to start in corral 3 but since I was walking, I headed toward the back of the pack. I was lucky that several of my friends had decided to walk too.

Mile 1:

It is usually very crowded during the first mile but this year were fewer runners than in previous years. I never really had to weave and had plenty of space to walk comfortably.

The race began with a long steep uphill. I remember it being hard when I was running but walking and chatting, I barely noticed it.

The best thing about walking was that I could take in the scenery and take lots of photos.

And we were so slow that the lead runner was heading to the finish before we hit mile 1.

Keira D’amato leading the pack

Mile 1 continued as we turned left and entered the park (and the hill ended).

There were rolling hills throughout the park. They were not bad.

The worst part were all the potholes and cracks in the roads…There were cones over the potholes but you had to weaving back n forth to avoid them and you had to keep your eyes pealed to ground to make sure you didn’t trip.

Then again, we were walking so much fewer issues with the state of the pavement.

1 mile done

Mile 2:

There was a water stop around mile 1.25. It was warm out and I would have stopped had I been running but today, there was no need.

More rolling hills during this mile as you went around the park circling the lake. Only one of the hills was steep but it was very short.

We tried to pick up the pace for the second mile.

But we were having so much fun that I doubt we got much faster.

Soon we were getting toward exiting the park.

2 miles down

Mile 3-3.1:

There was a second water stop around mile 2.5 but again, none of us needed to stop.

Finally we left the park and headed toward the street we started on.

always stop and pose when you see a photographer…

It was a long downhill and I remember it being longer than it looked.

notice how fast my friends walk… and the 80 something is leading the way…

Eventually I saw the 3 mile sign.

Heidi’s MIL (who was in her mid 80’s) wanted to finish under 60 minutes.

It would be close so we all started to RUN!!

And we did it!!

and since we started after 9:00, we were even faster than the clock.

Post Race Activities:

We got our medals and some water and then headed toward the refreshments.

The lines were very long so we decided just to head out and go out to brunch.

Additional Race Reflections:

Many runners were excited about their PR or their first 5k.. I may not have run but I still really enjoyed myself.

It was different this year. If I had raced, I would have been chatting after the race with my racing friends and we would have discussed our finish times and age group awards..

Of course, I had FOMO. It would have been more fun to have run but sometimes life gives you lemons. And so I made lemonade.

Today was about friendship which is more important than pace.

Besides I can never remember my finish times. I looked up my recent ones after the race.

2014 – 28:51
2015 – 29:22
2016 -28:50
2017 – 27:48
2018 – 27:37 (PR)
2019 – 27:47
2021- 28:16
2022 – 28:24
2023 – 29:41
20:24 –

stiff competition

Well, there’s always next year…

Positives:

Ample parking.
Well marked course.
Lots of familiar faces.
Interesting course (through a beautiful park).
Downhill finish.
Friendly and abundant number of volunteers.
Two water stops (for a 5k)
The electric atmosphere.
Virtual option.
Free finish and start photos
Immediate results
Nice Swag for a 5k (tech shirt, medal, cookies, bread)
Cool medal
All women – all ages, all paces…
Many free photo stations

Negatives:

Uphill first mile.
Uneven pavement in the park
Long line for the refreshments
Name change (it will forever be called the Freihofer race)

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes. It’s a great local race. And having it be ALL WOMEN makes it even more special.

Final Stats:

So FRW #17 is in the books!

The tradition is still alive! It was again a great local race with many women running or walking it. Can’t wait to do it again next year and RUN it.

Next Up:

June 15

Happy Running! How was your weekend? Did you race? If so, how did it go? Do you have a favorite race that you run every year? Do you prefer 5ks or longer races? Ever walk a race? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

June 1, 2024 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 5.26.24-6.2.24: Trying for Speed?

With my half marathon training over, I thought that I would work on some speed…

But then I had some mysterious thigh pain (which luckily was short-lived).

And yesterday my favorite 5k took place.

So was I fast? What do YOU think?

Last Week –

Sunday – First day of boating season. The weather was great and I booked a site on an island in advance so we could barbecue.

Of course, I had FOMO as I was hoping to have run a 10 mile race that morning but we had a nice day and rain was predicted for the next day.

Monday – It threatened rain but I went out for a run anyway.

It didn’t rain but I was hoping it would as it was sooo humid.

I did more gardening (never ending, it seems) and still no rain (even the sun came out) but it was quite windy.

Since I thought it would be a rainy day, I had made plans to meet a friend for a late lunch and then go to the movies. Perfect planning as it poured while we were in the theater..

it’s about tennis, love, friendship, competition and more…

Tuesday – First thing was a gym visit and then after work, ~~I met friends for a walk on the rail trail (we are trying to make this a weekly date.)~~ since my walk got rained out, I visited with my granddaughter.

she’s getting so big… crawling everywhere

After that walk, I met my BFF for a walk at the mall.

Wednesday – I actually ran before work…

a pink day!!

and then after work, I went to a dinner that was held to thank the race volunteers.

Thursday – Early work stuff forced me to postpone my run until lunch.

channeling the roses to get me moving…

In the evening, the first ARE Trail run of the season was held. It’s supposed to be a run but as you know I am NOT a trail runner so I enlisted a friend to walk it with me.

a perfect night on the trails… the cider was great too.

Friday – Back at the gym before work and then a trip to see my chiro.. My thigh felt normal but I figured I’d go one more time.

Instead of mah jongg, I volunteered at the race expo after work and into the evening.

And then I went home to get together my outfit for the race:

#flatme + my cat

It was too late to order pizza (my usual pre-race meal) and I heated up one that I had in the freezer.

It seemed fine until around 2am when I got deathly ill. I won’t go into details but it was the sickest I’ve ever been.

Food poisoning!?

Saturday – Race for Women 5k.

Year #17 for me!!

I really wanted to keep my streak and I had the bibs for 7 of my friends.

I wasn’t sure what to do. I felt better but I was nervous about my stomach.

Most people would have called it a day but I decided to go. I met the friends that I was carpooling with.

If felt too sick, I’d wait in the TC tent until my friends finished. If not, I would just walk. There are a lot of walkers in this race and several of my friends had decided to walk too.

It was a beautiful day to run but I thought it was too dangerous to try.

And so I walked 3.1 miles, chatted with my friends, took lots of photos and ran through the finish line.

not as much fun as running the race but better than staying home

Sunday – Hopefully my regularly scheduled program: GYM, day on the lake

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – run
Tuesday -run, walk with friends
Wednesday – Day at the NYBG
Thursday – Trail run/walk
Friday – GYM, hair appt.
Saturday – Long Run and Brunch
Sunday – GYM, boating (weather dependent)

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – Run for Women 5k Race Recap
Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this summer? Do you like 5ks? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

May 28, 2024 by Darlene

2024 RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon Race Recap

MAY 18, 2024

This was my third time running this half marathon. I ran it in 2018 in the pouring rain… I definitely did not get to enjoy my post-race Coney Island experience.

I ran it again last year and the weather was exactly the same.

So I signed up to run Brooklyn in 2024 for these reasons:

I love NYC (and Brooklyn).
I surprisingly got a guaranteed entry.
My two local running buddies were running it too.
I ran a local half marathon a month before so I was sorta trained already.
NYRR races are so well-organized.
Who wouldn’t want to finish at the beach on Coney Island?
It was on a Saturday so I would not have to take the next day off from work.
I wanted to re-do on this race after the wet ones in 2018 AND 2023.

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. I ran my last half marathon on April 13.

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

Though I don’t usually care much about my short runs, I usually like to get in a 10, 11 and 12 miler before each half marathon.

I got in a 10 miler after the half marathon but I skipped the 11 mile run in favor of a 10k race.

: 2024 – 3rd H2H HM

After the 10k race, I went to Florida and skipped my 12 mile long run in favor of a 5k race (in the heat/humidity.)

And then I tapered with a SLOW (hard) 10 miler.

Obviously I was a little worried about my endurance. However, I didn’t expect to run the half marathon at a PR pace anyway. I was running it purely for the experience. I was very excited to be out there racing with friends.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

As I did for the NYC Half Marathon, I planned this race with my two local running friends Sherry and Stan.

Stan’s friend, Lisa, also decided to come along and support us even though she was not running the race.

We all took the train to Manhattan early Friday morning.

Once we arrived in Manhattan, we took the subway to our new hotel (we decided not to stay in Brooklyn this year but in the financial district of Manhattan), left our bags and started carb loading at a nearby restaurant.

After lunch, we walked to the Brooklyn Bridge and then over it.

The bridge is my favorite in NYC but the highlight was seeing Denzel Washington and Spike Lee filming a commercial for their new movie (High and Low)

From there we walked to the Pre-Race Party location at Pier 2…

view from Pier 2

to get our shirts and bibs.

Of course we took the prerequisite photos:

and then headed back to check into our hotel.

After we checked into our hotel and unpacked, it was time to head out again for a pre-dinner snack

: relaxing at the rooftop bar

: mocktails!!

followed by dinner – carb loading on pizza at a nearby restaurant.

Back at the hotel, I laid out my outfit and tried to get to bed early.

with added throw always for the AM

Fortunately, our friend Lisa agreed to meet us at the finish and carry everything we would need for after the race -for all three of us.

Race Day:

Alarm set for 5:15 am. Since we were staying in Manhattan this year, we had to take a subway to the start.

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

We were all in Wave 2 and so we didn’t start until 8:00 am. We met in the lobby at 6:15 am.

The subway was only minutes from the hotel and everyone on the train was going to the race. This year you started in two different locations depending on your assigned corral (corrals A-F and G-L) hence two different subway stops. I was in E, Stan in F and Sherry in I. We decided to get off at the stop for Sherry’s corral -Grand Army Plaza. I think we were there by 6:30.

Everything was very organized… the security line moved very quickly.

There was an abundant number of porta potties and minimal lines. But it was the same situation in the individual corrals so I waited.

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

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

There was quite a wait for my corral to start, at least 20 long minutes.

And the weather? No rain this year.

However, it was warmer, NOT CLOUDY and very humid.

I immediately got rid of my throw away shirt (and there was no need for Lisa to bring jackets to us after the race!!)

But you can’t change the weather, you just deal.

My plan for the race, as usual, was to stop and walk briefly at every water stop (so I wouldn’t get dehydrated) and to stop and walk longer to eat a GU at every 4 miles or so. And then basically walk whenever I needed to. Based on my training runs, that would be pretty often.

Lisa, Sherry, Stan and I planned to meet at the finish and return to the hotel together.

Anyway, here’s how the race went

Miles 1-3:

Eventually we started to move. And long walk it was to the start line. Some runners actually ran but nope, I walked until I hit the start line.

It was quite congested in the beginning of the race. Did I mention there were 28,000 runners who started this race (the largest half marathon in the US) and half were in Wave 2? I may have started middle of the pack but moved into BOTP by the 2nd half of the race.

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

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

Miles 4-6:

At mile 4, you head into the park. It starts off flat and just before Mile 5 comes the biggest hill on the course which is not as steep as some of those Central Park hills, but seems like it will never end. I continued my water stop walking and used the one at mile 3.5 to eat my first GU. Thankfully as you loop around the park, you discover what goes up must come down and you get to enjoy a nice downhill. This was my favorite part of the race.

Miles 7-9:

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

I tried to think of this as my final stretch to the finish line. I ate my 2nd Gu around mile 7.5

It felt like Ocean Parkway would never end. Until this point in the race, I was feeling strong. My lack of long runs really reared its ugly head at mile 9. My lower back starting aching and then the bunion on my right foot started feeling funky. As a result, walks at the water stops were getting longer. To make things worse, it was sunnier. There were lively crowds all along the course…and music. That helped a lot.

The best part was all the hoses that sprayed water on us poor runners.

Miles 10-12

Still running down that endless Ocean Parkway. At mile 10.5, I ate my final GU and walked what seemed like forever hoping to get some zip in my step. Finally as you run South, the Avenues go in order from A to Z then you make a right hand turn onto Surf Avenue where you can see the roller coasters up ahead. But by mile 12, I barely had any energy. I just willed myself to continue. I knew the end was near.

At this point, a lady ran up to me and asked me my age. When I replied, she said that I was the same age as her mother. Anyway, we continued chatting until we saw the finish line encouraging each other.

she’s in the blue shirt

Mile 13- 13.25

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

The finish line seemed so far away but all of a sudden, the race was over. I crossed….

Post Race Activities:

The volunteers pushed us along and finally I got my medal.

I got my bag of snacks (water, Gatorade, pretzels, an apple) and waited for my friends to finish.

I saw Stan first.

we definitely look better than we felt

I started to feel dizzy so I sat down and ate the pretzels.

Eventually Sherry joined us and we went off to the stadium to find Lisa.

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

But we were so sweaty and tired and with thousands of runners, it was too crowded to do anything but head to the subway.

Happy to be done!!

As soon as we found Lisa, off we went.

As you would expect, the subways were jam packed. We squeezed in but had to stand… for 16 stops!! And it was HOT!!

It almost got ugly. I started to feel faint and nauseous. I asked a guy to get up so I could sit. Stan did the same.

Phew!!

After a long hot shower and some food, I felt much better.

We probably should have taken a nap but instead we took the subway uptown and walked around before eventually we had our celebratory dinner at an Italian restaurant.

Final Stats:

Additional Race Reflections:

Though there were timing clocks at every mile during the race, they started when the elites of wave 1 started so I really wasn’t sure how I was doing. I tried not to look at my watch. I knew that my pace was slowing down and my walks were getting slower and longer as the race progressed.

I wasn’t really disappointed with my time. I thought I would finish much slower. I knew I would not come close to my 2018 time of 2:11:23. However, I did finish faster than 2:27. That is the qualifying time for my age group for the NYC Half, Brooklyn Half and NYC Full Marathon in 2025.

I do NOT plan to run any of these races again. (Maybe I should have run 11 seconds slower so I wouldn’t be tempted. LOL)

Well, this was a bucket list race for me. And I got my wish for a dry weather race.

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

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

Maybe if I didn’t take 4 weeks off from running due to a sprained ankle and trained harder, I would have run this race more confidently and had a better finish time.

Then again, maybe not.

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

I don’t regret running the race. The hills weren’t as bad as Central Park or the NYC bridges. More than 28,000 excited runners. So much energy. NYRR puts on a first class event.

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

The Good:

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

The Bad:

Running down Ocean Ave for so long was a little boring
Pre-Race Party was disappointing – very few vendors, no freebies
Prospect Park hills (since I didn’t train on hills)

The Ugly:

Almost passing out on the subway
The 13.1 mile strugglefest (why did it feel so HARD??)

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Definitely. For the enthusiasm and the organization. NYRR always puts on a great show!

Next Up:

~~10 MILER – May 26, 2024~~ I decided to skip it this year

5K – June 1, 2014

Happy Running! Have you ever run this race or any NYRR races? Do you prefer large races or small ones? Does the heat affect your running? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

May 24, 2024 by Darlene

FFF: 5 Tips for Running Your First Marathon

Today’s Topic is: Five Tips for Running Your First Marathon

1.Start with a Base

IOW, even if you are not racing, run at least 6 miles on the weekend before you start training for the marathon.

2. Follow a Training Plan

There are many free ones that you can download. Most are 16-18 weeks long.

I loosely followed a beginner Hal Higdon plan.

2. Be Flexible With Your Training.

Don’t beat yourself up if you miss a run.

I was traveling for work while training for my first. It was nearly impossible to do those mid-week long runs.

not 10!!

Add in a race or two to relieve the boredom of those long long runs.

3. Recruit friends to share some of your training runs.

Misery loves company?

Long runs are always easier if you are not alone.

4. Forget the Time Goal.

Finishing 26.2 miles is an achievement.

You can try to improve your finish time on a subsequent marathon.

5. Have fun!

This is the most important tip.

It’s going to be hard. You will struggle (especially the last 6 miles)

Enjoy the scenery and the fans and the challenge…

Don’t forget to celebrate after the race.

Happy Running! What would you add? Please share.

It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with bloggers, Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and The Running Teacher!

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other blogs!!

Join the link party!

May 19, 2024 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 5.12.24-5.19.24: It’s Half Marathon Time Again

Half Marathon #3 for 2024 and my last one until September.

It was a half marathon that I’ve already run twice in the RAIN…

Was it a dry race this year?

Last Week –

Sunday – Mother’s Day.

I celebrated on Saturday with lunch out with the hubby, stepson, DIL and grandbaby.

Today I started the day at the gym (it was raining) and then a short visit to see my MIL, BIL, SIL.

Most of the day was spent doing errands, laundry, cooking and WEEDING!!

I had planned on a hike/walk later in the day but then it started raining again…

I ended the day meeting a friend for wine/chat.

Monday – Back to work! At least it was WFH. I squeezed in a run at lunch

it was sunny and this run felt so HARD!!

and then celebrated my birthday (again) with dinner out with my BFF.

more birthday sweets!

Tuesday – A gym visit …

flowers always brighten my morning

before heading to the office and then to set up for the next day.

had to stop and get my Chocolate cream cold brew…

After work, I met friends for a long walk on the rail tail. All of the sudden, it felt like summer.

Wednesday – A long work day since I had to do LIVE teaching.

I missed week 8 but returned to mentor week 9 of the TC group (Their big race is June 1!)

It always rains on Wednesday so true to form, it did all day…

but stopped in time for our run. The beginner group didn’t show so I did run/walk intervals with these 2 ladies and found this rock

Thursday – Another early morning gym visit then WFH with a run at lunch (wearing my 2023 Brooklyn shirt)..

humid but just missed the rain. phew

After work, I met my tennis friends for dinner.

Then I went home to pack.

forecast looks OK 🙂

Friday – I took an early morning train to NYC (with Sherry & Stan who were running the race and Lisa who would be spectating.) We immediately headed by subway to our hotel, then grabbed some lunch before we headed to the expo to get our bibs/shirts.

We eventually carb loaded on pizza, I planned my outfit and tried to get to bed early.

with added throw always for the chilly AM

Saturday – RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon. (No rain!!!)

We all finished (more details in a later post but many pix on FB & IG).

Of course we celebrated….

2023 pic but same group as after last year’s race

Sunday – Recovery day activities in NYC and then the train back home.

This Coming Week on the Run –

Monday – DAY OFF – run, lunch with a friend
Tuesday – GYM, walk with friends
Wednesday – run, TC mentoring (trial run on the race course)
Thursday – run
Friday – GYM, mah jongg
Saturday – Run or walk and Brunch (depending what I decide for Sunday)
Sunday – GYM or Miles Along the Mohawk (10m)

This Coming Week on the Blog –

Tuesday – “To The Gorge” Book Review and My Memories of Andrea
Friday – 5 Tips For Running Your First Marathon

Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this winter? How’s the weather where you live? Are the flowers blooming? Please share.

I am linking up with Kim and Deborah for

May 14, 2024 by Darlene

2024 Tropicool 5k Race Recap

MAY 5, 2022 – 7:30AM

As you may remember, this race took place during my annual non-running tennis vacation in Naples, Florida. I 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.

Well, in 2017. we changed our dates and 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.

Despite the loops and warm temps, I had a blast and did fairly well.

I also unexpectedly bumped into a tennis friend, Rebecca, who had moved to Naples.

As a result, I signed up for the same 5k in 2018 and 2019. I won an age group award each time and met up with Rebecca.

Our vacation was cancelled due to COVID in 2020 and the race in 2021 did not occur during our time in Naples.

So I was pretty excited to run this race again in 2022. The downside was that Rebecca died suddenly in 2021 and I knew that the race would remind me of her sadly.

I decided to run the race anyway and each year, if I was able. in Rebecca’s honor.

and yes, again I won an age group award

However since I was still recovering from a broken foot, I decided to skip the race in 2023 but this year, I put it back on my racing schedule.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

The day before the race, 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 stopped at an ice cream shop. Obviously, it turned out to be a later night than normal.

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.

elevation according to Strava – FLAT!!

Race Day:

Sunday morning, I groggily ate my usual race breakfast at 5:30 am. As she did in previous years, 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 the first year.

There was no packet pick up before the race this year. So I got my bib on race day. The swag was a shirt. And I had to hide it under a tree since I did have a bag or a car.

Then I walked a block to the beach to hang out until around 7:15 am.

This was not a big race. There were about 250 runners – all ages and very friendly.

The sun was now out and it was starting to get warm. I checked the weather app on my phone. Holy cow!!! 80 degrees. 99% humidity!

I wore my usual race attire minus the compression socks:

the same outfit as 2022!! LOL

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 friends so I could play tennis with them. (Gone are the days when I finished this race in 27:xx!!)

I also haven’t raced in weather this warm since last August. This made me a little nervous. Can I run well in the heat? Will I die? LOL

getting ready to start

Mile 1:

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…

Actually I could not wait to walk…

Mile 2:

It seemed like forever but I think it was during mile 2. I stopped for water and walked for a while (longer than the first walk).

I continued my running which was painful and seemed to be like a slog…

The course ran through neighborhoods with a few twists and turns and then repeated itself.

I walked whenever I felt I had to… I really didn’t care about my time as long as I finished.

Mile 3 – 3.1:

I actually felt worse after walking so I ran and tried to just get to the finish line without puking.

Eventually the arch appeared and I gave it my all.

this was from a video

I was shocked when I crossed at 31:xx. I felt so much slower.

Post Race Activities:

I grabbed some water but skipped the refreshments which were only bars and navel oranges.

I quickly checked the results to see if I won an award. And I did!!

I told the RD that I had to leave so he gave me my award before the awards ceremony.

I texted my friends Lorraine and Pat and they had already arrived to pick me up. It was 8:30 am and so I had plenty of time to get ready to play tennis at 9:30.

Additional Race Reflections:

Definitely a tough one and one of my slowest 5ks in years but hey, I did it. (and it was a little faster than the 5k I ran in Feb but that one had a bridge you had to cross twice…)

And I will do it again!

Racing for me is always enjoyable (at least afterward.)

Age Graded results always make me feel better!!

as do awards…

Positives:

flat course
well organized
nice shirt (gender-specific)
creative age group award (picture frame)
important charity (scholarships to HS students)
podium for winners

Negatives:

Rebecca was no longer there. 😦
2 looped course
Warm temps and humidity

Would I recommend this race?

Yes! There was a lot of enthusiasm and runners of all ages.

Final Stats:

Next Up:

May 18

Happy Running! Ever run a 5K race while on vacation? Do you find it hard to race in the hot weather? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

April 30, 2024 by Darlene

2024 Bacon Hill Bonanza 10K Race Recap

April 27, 2024 – 10:00 am

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

10K

The 5k is pretty flat!! So why not?

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

This small race in the country has always been one of my favorite 5k races. I ran it for the five years straight (2013-18) and again in 2021 and enjoyed it each time. (I was out of town in 2019 and 2022. It was cancelled in 2020 and I was injured in 2023).

It was always well-organized and had great food – the usual food but also chili and homemade muffins & cookies (including gluten free ones).

And there was chocolate milk, fresh from the dairy. (You know how I LOVE chocolate milk post-race.)

Plus, I also won a homemade pie as first in my age group for the five years. 28:56, 28:01, 27:54, 27:32, 27:01. Yes, it seems that I was getting faster but then in 2021, I finished at 28:20. (Still speedy compared to my latest 5ks).

That being said, I decided to not stress about having a fast time and to push myself to tackle the hilly miles… yup, I registered for the 10k (for the first time). Besides, I was supposed to be training for an upcoming half marathon.

Packet pick-up was the day before. But since I lived so far away, I planned to pick mine up the morning of the race.

Again the weather was tricky. What to wear? Will it be cold or will it be warm (as in 2021)? Lately it has felt more like winter than spring…

So this was the plan: long sleeved shirt and capris (with compression calf sleeves) – see pic below.

Of course, I had pizza for my race carb loading (yes I carb load even for 10ks. lol)

Race Day:

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

After my race breakfast of oatmeal and coffee, I left my house around 8:00 am and met my friend Heidi in Round Lake. I had talked her into running this race with me but she chose the 5k.

We got to the race early (around 9:00 am) and found a parking spot in a grassy 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.)

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

So as soon as we arrived, we picked up our shirts and bibs and then we went back to Heidi’s car to drop them off.

I wasn’t sure if I would know anyone else at this race since many of the runners that I usually run this race with were not coming (There were a few other local races scheduled.).

I stopped by the timing truck to say hello to my former FTC coach who usually asks me if I was going to PR. But he wasn’t there. No pressure 🙂

We walked around a bit scouting out the logistics and trying to stay warm.

one of the reasons I love this race – this local dairy and their chocolate milk

But I did bump into a few runners that I knew and we chatted. A guy came up to be and said that he loved my blog. He had just started running and picked this race based on my review. (The 2nd race in a row where someone has been reading my blog… who knew?)

obligatory pre-race pic

There was music playing and close to 200 runners. With your race entry, you also got a raffle ticket to possibly win some very cool prizes.

The sun was out so we both decided to ditch our jackets.

Course description:

The 10K Course will head North on Stonebridge Road and then will u-turn at 0.7 miles into the run to head South on Stonebridge Road. The route will then turn left onto Ballard Lane (dirt road). At the end of Ballard Lane, the course will then turn Left onto West River Road to head North. Continue North on West River Road, at 2.7 miles the course will then turn Right onto Harris Road (dirt road) and follow Harris Road until it loops back to the intersection of West River Road and Callahan Road (3.4 miles). The course will continue straight onto Callahan Road until it intersects with Stonebridge Road (4.5 miles). At this point, runners will turn Left to head South on Stonebridge Road and return to the Bacon Hill Reformed Church to finish out the race (6.2 miles).

Garmin elevation chart…

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

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.

My legs immediately protested my attempt for speed. I felt my short distance racing lay-off.

There were no volunteers on the course calling out times. There were mile markers and a few scattered volunteers cheering on the runners.

I always have positive splits so I didn’t even glance at my watch until after the race. (I was correct.. see below.)

As indicated above, we headed out with the 5k runners and then tuned around. At this point we were running into a strong head wind.

Then we turned left on to a dirt road and left onto a long hilly road. The scenery was beautiful. We even ran along the Hudson River for a while.

The first huge long hill had me rethinking my choice to run this race. I had a hard time walking up it… so I just shuffled (run/walk) along. It was followed my some smaller hills where I did the same. Finally the last steep hill..

We eventually looped back to the road we started on.

Of course that meant ending the race by running into a head wind. Oy!!

I felt very warm the whole race and rolled up my sleeves (I could have run in a shirt and short sleeves – spring time races are so hard to dress for.)

There were several water stops but the first one was not until almost mile 3 and then every mile or so after.

I had a GU in my pocket but never really felt the need to eat it.

Some pics from a run after a previous race:

The last few miles I ran with a lady who was running this race for the first time. Her teenage daughter talked her into it. She had run the same half I did 2 weeks ago. We both agreed that those 13.1 miles were easier than this race.

Eventually, the finish line was in sight. I was out of gas and walked a few times so I could at least sprint at the end… especially since my friend Heidi was waiting to take a photo.

Post Race Activities:

I immediately grabbed a bottle of chocolate milk

and checked to see if I won a raffle prize. Nope.

They were announcing the 5k awards so we checked out the refreshments – bananas, oranges, all sorts of home-made baked goods.

I was happy that my friend Sue won.

They also had 3 kinds of chili (veggie, beef, turkey) and it was delish.

Surprisingly I actually won my age group.

I guess some races, you just have to show up..

The 5k winners took all the apple pies..

On our way back to my car, we stopped for dessert:

Additional Race Reflections:

I usually only run one 10K a year (Troy Turkey Trot) and it is flat. So this race was most likely a PW. This could be the year of the PW but I’m running!! But I am winning awards.

I enjoy racing and that’s all that matters.

Positives:

Ample parking.
Well marked course.
Beautiful countryside scenery
Funny signs on the course
Chocolate milk, chili and homemade cookies as post-race refreshments.
Super friendly volunteers
Raffle prizes
Free Photos
Virtual option

Negatives:

Hills!!
Need an earlier first water stop for the 10k

Would I recommend this race?

Yes.

It was super well-organized. Special attention was paid to EVERY detail.

Final Stats:

Official GT time: 1:07:00 (Garmin time: 1:06:54)

things got ugly after 3 miles

I wasn’t thrilled with my time. Then again I had zero goals. I was just running for me and because it makes me feel good to race.

Icing on the cake was the company, the food and an age group award.

All in all, I loved this race. I will definitely do it again…

Next Up:

A few shorter races –

Then finally:

MAY 18!!

Happy Running! Did you race this weekend? Do you have a big race coming up? Do you prefer an easy race flat race or a challenging hilly one? Please share.

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs

April 23, 2024 by Darlene

2024 Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon Race Recap

Image result for helderberg to hudson half marathon

***************April 13, 2024******

It seems like I’ve been planning this race forever. As with all my big races, I impulsively sign up way in advance (and then often regret it LOL).

I ran the first annual one in 2019. Due to COVID, in 2020, I ran the race virtually and in 2021, I ran it on a completely different course (a hilly one). I ran it againon its current course in 2022 and then last year, I was recovering from a broken foot so I had to skip it.

: 2019 – First H2H HM

: 2020 – Virtual H2H HM

: 2021- H2M HM (on a revised course)

: 2022 – Second H2H HM

So I signed up for 2024 Helderberg to Hudson Half Marathon as my 67th Half Marathon for several reasons:

FOMO. Many of my racing/running friends were doing it.
It’s local. I can sleep in my own bed.
I am familiar with the course. I run on it often.
It’s a downhill course. (470 ft. elevation loss)
I was unable to run it last year.

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. I ran my last half marathon on March 17 in NYC. However, I was coming off a sprained ankle so I was happy to just cross the finish line.

On weekdays, I tried to run 3x a week…sometimes it happened, sometimes it didn’t (and usually only 3 miles).

And then on the weekends, I scheduled my long run. I didn’t get the 11 and 12 milers done that I had planned to do in order to prepare for this race. Work, weather, work, weather, etc…

: long walk in CP

: 9 miles

: 10 miles

I was counting on some muscle memory from the 13.1 miles that I completed 4 weeks prior.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

I picked up my bib (and Barbara’s) on the way to work on Friday at the race finish. It was pouring (and it rained ALL day!!!)

and then I ate pasta for dinner.

I checked the weather and it looked to be cloudy, cool with a slight chance of rain.

So what do I wear?

the usual with some added throwaways.

Race goals?

Also the same as usual. Finish happy with no injuries. I have realized that having a time goal is difficult at my age. Having any expectations of a PR or even a course PR is unrealistic, as well.

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

again a successful 2:12 finish in 2022

That being said, since this race did not have the hills of NYC, I was hoping to have a faster finish time than my last half marathon … but again, anything can happen on race day.

Race Day:

Since I had run this race before, I was familiar with the start and finish logistics. But they still were tricky. There was a bus from the finish to the start (and no parking at the start). However this year, I knew when to get there and where to find nearby parking. Over 2,000 runners had signed up for this race!!!

Well, I woke up to 40 degrees and rain!! The rain stopped but it was also windy so I completely changed my mind on what to wear – capris and long sleeve shirt (see pics below).

I added a throwaway shirt, sweatshirt, and gloves. I decided against bag check since I parked near the finish (and I had given a friend who would be at the finish line cheering my jacket.) I also brought a mylar sheet from a previous race.

I met Barbara at 6:00 to carpool and we arrived around 6:15 am, found parking in the lot near the finish and then we walked to the bus. There were so many busses and as soon as one was filled, it left.

We arrived around 7 am and the race did not start until 8:30.

checking out the empty start area

There were so many familiar faces.. from former running groups, training groups, other races, etc..

with Renee who was gearing up to run the London Marathon

Barb & I were freezing!!

While we waited in a dugout (in case it rained and to shield us from the wind), we made some new friends. They were from CT and MA. and super nice. It helped to pass the time and keep our minds off the cold.

Debby & Linda

Eventually, it was time to enter the start area. I entered near some racing friends (10-11 min. pace) but Barb went further back.

It appeared to be warming up a bit so I tossed both of my throw aways but kept on my gloves.

Anyway, here’s how the race went:

Course Map:

from my Garmin

Miles 1-5:

Thanks FB – view of the start (the Helderbergs)

The course started in the park and then we ran just over 2 miles on the roads of Voorheesville so runners could spread out before they got on the rail trail.

There were a few steep downhill sections and I am sure that I ran them too fast.

From there, the course headed east for about 9 miles into Albany on the rail trail. If you read my blog, you may remember that this is a trail near my home and that I run on often. It was nice to only have to run on it one way…going downhill. It was not steep and I was able to run at a comfortable pace.

The problem was that I run warm and I could have kept on my original outfit. I took off my gloves and rolled up my sleeves.

As per my plan, I walked at each water stop. I think there were 2 in the first 3 miles.

There were clocks at each 5k. I saw when I passed the 5k mark that I was running a little too fast. I slowed down so I wouldn’t run out of gas at the end (but obviously not enough.)

My breakfast was at 5 am so I was getting pretty hungry. I was hoping that there would be a water stop soon… Nope not yet…

Eventually around mile 4, I just ate my first GU.

The great thing about a local race was the the crowd support and volunteers. Many called my name (since it was on my bib) and it was so welcome.

One of tennis friends’ son was running this race and I saw her many times.

Here are a few pictures from previous runs on this same trail:

Miles 6-9:

So the race continued on this same trail. The elevation felt a little steeper on this portion but my legs felt more and more tired. Or should I say my quads were complaining from running downhill. Finally around mile 6 or 7, there was the water stop. I walked even longer than before.

At the 10k clock, it was obvious that I slowed (as expected).

What was nice about this race was that I knew so many of the runners. They kept passing me by. Some just waved, others slowed and ran with me for a while. I also had some friends along the course who cheered me on.

When I saw my running friend, Deb, who was a court marshal, I threw her my gloves that I had been carrying for miles.

I walked (too long) at the next water stop around mile 8 and ate my second GU.

15k point

another cool FB pic

More pictures from previous runs:

All of a sudden, it started to drizzle, then rain, even a little sleet!! Then all of a sudden, it stopped completely. Very weird since as we approached Albany, it was dry.

Finally my tennis friend got a photo of me not walking and drinking water or eating a GU.

Miles 10-13.1

The rail trail finally ended and we were heading into Albany. This was my least favorite apart of the course – not scenic at all – running through the city (and not the nice part) and then along a busy road.

my tennis friend took this one

My quads were toast at this point. My lower back ached and I just wanted to be done.

A few more water stops and longer walks. One last GU.

The clock at the 20K mark indicated that surprisingly I was still having a decent race (not PR decent but faster than my last two).

The last few miles seemed endless. It was no longer downhill. In fact going to the finish line was slightly uphill.

I walked a few more times and tried as best as I could to sprint through the finish especially since a few running friends were cheering me on and taking pics.

I saw the clock ahead and I hoped to finish under 2:21:00…and I did NOT!!

Was I walking?

Post Race Activities:

I got my medal, some water and of course, took some pics.

I chatted with some other runners who had already finished and took some more pics.

I checked the results. What? An age group award. I was 3rd.

And I chose $10 off another race (rather than merchandise).

Next I headed off to find my friends and some refreshments.

There was the usual food box for this race and chocolate milk.

There was also beer. Nah. Too long a line and too early in the day for a beer!!

Barb and I walked back to my car (which was nearby) and then we met all our friends for a celebratory brunch.

Final Stats:

still maintaining the positive split award

I was trying not to run under a 10 minute pace and not over 11… I was pretty good for 10 miles…

Additional Race Reflections:

I have yet to figure out how to negative split a long race. Maybe I need to train better (You think??)

My finish time was way faster than my previous half marathon but NYC was way harder. (2:37:07 vs 2:21:44). It was also faster than the one last September (2:25;03) and similar to the Brooklyn Half last May (2:21:41).

In 2019, I wanted a sub 2:12 finish so I would qualify for the 2020 NYC Half Marathon. And I did!! This year, I had no glorious expectations.

As you can see from the stats above, my lack of training caught up to me after 10 miles.

I have confirmed that downhill races aren’t as easy as you may think. Rolling hills are actually easier on the body. (We runners are never satisfied.)

My quads were sore for a day or two. No injuries. So happy that I chose to run this race. Win. Win.

The Good:

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