February 4, 2020 by Darlene

Fred LeBow Half Marathon Race Recap

January 19, 2020 – 8:00 am

This race honors the late NYRR president and New York City Marathon co-founder, Fred Lebow (1932–1994). The course is two-plus loops of Central Park, which can be a challenge in January! Join the mid-winter fun and camaraderie—and perhaps kick off your training for a spring marathon. You’ll have lots of good-spirited company, and you can enjoy classical music (Fred’s favorite) at the start as well as inspiring Fred quotes along the course!

So I signed up for the Fred LeBow Half Marathon as my 40th Half Marathon for several reasons:

I love NYC.
I love running in Central Park.
I had enough pts for a free hotel room.
I had thought my NYC BRFs Cari and Elizabeth may be running it too.
It was held on President’s Day weekend so I had the next day off from work.
Fred Lebow?!

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. After the NYC Marathon and Stockade-athon 15k, I experienced foot pain.

So I stopped running completely for 3 weeks. I was planning to DNS this race.

But then I started back with some short runs and a few longer ones on the weekend.

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

For this race, I obviously did not. And all my runs came with some foot discomfort.

Yes, I was nervous that I was not prepared for run 13.1 miles and I was nervous about making my foot worse. And those hills!!!!

So the goal for this half marathon was just finishing!! It’s a BIG race, There would be many runners finishing behind me.

Update course map – start at east 102nd and end at west 102nd – 2 full loops

Check out this elevation:

starts and ends with Harlem Hill and you hit it in the middle too! along with Cat Hill twice and 3 Sisters.

Yikes. But no surprise…I have run in this park and I ran the Shape Half Marathon which was also several loops of the park (but different start and end.)

survived but not smiling

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Several days before the race, we were notified of this change:

Due to construction on the 72nd Street Transverse in Central Park, we have modified the NYRR Fred Lebow Half Marathon course. The race will now feature two larger loops in Central Park starting on East Drive just south of the 102nd Street Cross Drive and finishing on 102nd Street Cross Drive near West Drive.

Hence, three Harlem hills rather than the normal two…lucky me!

I learned some valuable lessons about pre-race prep during a previous race-cation — rest the legs and fuel adequately the day before the race. I was going to make sure that I did both things this time around.

So I took the bus to NYC on Saturday. The weather was horrendous. Snow made my bus arrive an hour late so I immediately headed to the subway (with my luggage) to meet fellow bloggers Deborah (from Confessions of a Mother Runner) and Cari. The three of us had a great time chatting over popcorn and wine at Deborah’s hotel.

Cari was nice enough to have already picked up my bib to save me enough time to get back to check into my hotel and then take the subway to Brooklyn. I had plans to carb load with my friend Stan who was running the race the next day, as well.

Brooklyn pizza is the best. I had 3 slices…no guilt.

The snow had stopped but now it was pouring. I had my fingers crossed that they were right about the sunshine the next day.

I got back to my hotel rather early in order to plan my race day. I have only run one winter half marathon. So it was a challenge to decide on what to wear to keep warm but not too warm for 13.1 miles.

2 shirts, capris and compression socks, beanie, gloves

Luckily I still had some throw always and foil wrap to add to my outfit.

Race Day:

I brought my usual race breakfast of oatmeal and coffee with me and got up around 5:30 am. It was chillier than I hoped so I put on my throwaway jacket, DIY arm sleeves, grabbed a foil blanket and called an Uber. (My hotel was on West 39th and it would be a long walk from the nearby subway stop at East 102nd to the start.)

snow on the grass and paths but the roads were salted and clear

I had plans to meet Stan (who was taking the subway from Brooklyn) before the race. I got there way too early. It was easy to find the start and bag check. But an hour waiting in the freezing cold was too much.

The sun came up and so did the wind. A bunch of us huddled near a generator for warmth. Eventually they shooed us away saying it was dangerous.

Soon Stan arrived and we met at bag check. I hesitated giving up my jacket but I knew that I would need it after the race. (I should have worn more throwaways.. and brought a heavier jacket for after… duh!)

Eventually, it was time to separate and head to our respective corrals. I was in I and Stan in G. (I was supposed to meet another friend who was in L but never located her.)

I kept on the foil blanket until I started running

I FROZE!!!! Even my teeth were chattering…along with 5000 other runners (a small race for NYC standards.)

I’ll do my best to recap the race below. (Warning: it’ll be long…)

The Race Plan: Do not get injured!! Do make your foot pain worse!!

There would have to be a lot of walking…There would be umpteen hills!! (and 3 Harlems rather than the usual 2!! plus several Cats and many other annoying smaller ones.)

And stop and walk briefly at every water stop (so I wouldn’t get dehydrated even in the cold) and to stop and walk longer to eat a gel at every other water stop.

Anyway, here’s how the race went:

Miles 1-5:

10:36, 10:34, 10:19, 10:22, 10:48

from nyrr fb page

It took a LONG five minutes or so to get to the start line. As I crossed I waved and yelled to Ali from Ali on the Run blog/podcast who was the race announcer.

It was slow going at first due to the crowd but soon after we ascended Harlem Hill for the first time…

My corral had a 2:10 pacer whom I lost immediately. I never did see the 2:20 one.

My foot hurt immediately but as always the pain faded to a dull ache and then increased and decreased throughout the race. It never felt normal nor did it ever prevent me from running.

Once I started running, I realized that I was indeed perfectly dressed. I even took off my gloves.

The roads were wet but they had so much salt on them, they were not slippery.

I ran up most of the hills. My sore foot always feels better running than walking. Unfortunately, it felt worse on the downhills where I normally can pick up the pace and make up for my slow uphill running.

I was conscious of this and never pushed the pace (even though tempted on those downhills) during the race.

There were water/Gatorade stops almost every mile of the course. I stopped at each one except the first one.

At mile 2, I took my first gel since it had been hours since my breakfast. (I always struggle to get one out of my pocket, open it and drink water and eat it…)

I knew that Cari was going to be cheering for me on the west side at 79th St. I was counting the blocks until I saw her (around mile 2.5).

I high fived her as I ran by.

Cari’s pic of me as I ran by

So we continued circling the park… many small annoying hills and then the 2nd largest hill, Cat Hill. I did the same as with Harlem, ran up most and ran slowly down.

Soon we were back on the east side and passed Fred Lebow. Every runner waved to him as they ran by.

I didn’t stop to get my camera out,,,this was taken on a different run

Miles 6-10:

10:09, 11:44, 10:48, 10:51, 11:13

We passed the start and that meant we were heading for round 2 of Harlem Hill. I also took my 2nd gel at one of the water stops. They had Honey Stingers and I searched until I found a chocolate one.

credit – cheereverywhere – can always muster up a smile for the camera

As we headed for the west side again, I was looking forward to seeing my friends Cari and Elizabeth. I so appreciated them being there to cheer me on.

And since this was the second loop of the park, there was Cat Hill again, and the statue of Fred and hill after hill after hill.

credits: cheereverywhere – my favorite sign

Miles 11-13.4:

12:21, 11:31, 12:08, 9:05

I ate one more gel since another Harlem Hill was coming for the THIRD time.

At this point, I wanted to be done. I got a side stitch and it persisted until mile 13. Maybe because I had not done more than 10 miles for a long run. Who knows? It took my mind off my achy foot.

I ran next a lady struggling with knee pain. We decided to help each other get to the finish (and swore together about adding that 3rd Harlem Hill).

Finally we turned toward the finish line and then turned again.

I ran as fast as I could…. (Adrenaline took over here!)

I immediately got my medal, my foil sheet and posed for a quick pic.

I grabbed a bagel and pretzels and headed to bag check where Stan was waiting for me.

: smiling cuz it’s over

I was freezing… The wind had picked up… So glad that I didn’t throw that jacket away (wished I had brought my warmer one.)

We headed out of the park, walked many many blocks (oh my foot!!) to the subway and then I walked to my hotel to pack and take a long hot shower.

I met Stan again for lunch and to recap our race experiences. In spite of the pain, the cold, the loops, the monster hills, we did not regret running the race.

refueling

Since it had gotten much colder and windier, we both decided to leave the city earlier than planned.

Additional Race Reflections:

Garmin time=2:25:42
Chip time = 2:26:31

My finish time was way slower than my previous two half marathons. (Surf Town 9/8/19 – 2:16:08 and Sacandaga 5/19/19 -2:13:03) which was to be expected. (May have been a PW and definitely the slowest since 2011, my first year.)

As you can see from the stats above, my splits were slower than normal..no 9 minute miles and too many over 11 or 12.

Enough whining…I am so grateful to be able to visit NYC and run a race. I am unbelievably happy that after the race, my foot did not hurt worse than before. My legs felt great. Zero DOMS!!

All in all, I thought this was a great race.

As usual, I wore some new items:

race hat – it was warm and comfortable
NYC Marathon race shirt – also worked out well (love wearing race shirts – great conversation starter)
Injini toe socks and toe spacer (for my bunion) – got a blister in a new spot but no blister on the other foot where I often get one ??

The tried and true items:

Mizuno Wave Inspires (been experimenting with Altras and Brooks) that I had worn for the marathon
Skirt Sports Lotta Breeze capri skirt – had a drawstring to keep it tight and 2 pockets for ID, cards and gels
Legendware compression calf sleeves – kept my legs warm and supported my calfs
Dollar store gloves – secondary use was to wipe my runny nose lol
Spi belt for my phone and to attach my bib

The Good:

Easy packet pick-up (several days before at Run Center and also race morning near the start).
Many porta potties at the start. Long lines but they moved quickly (I was told – did not use).
Bag Check. Well organized before and easy pick up at the end.
Water and Gatorade stops at almost every mile or so.
Gels available at several water stops
Many porta-potties along the course in addition to real CP bathrooms
Roads were dry even after the previous day’s snowfall.
Friends cheering for support.
Well marked course.
Great crowd support at the big hills!
Clocks at 5k, 10k, 15k, 20k (or even more points).
Pacers (useful if you started in the correct corral).
Very cool medal.
Great winter beanie.
No lines for post race refreshments
Foil blankets put on and taped close for each runner.
Blogger met-up with Cari and Deborah and a friend to share the race experience with before and after.

The Bad:

Loops!!!
Hills in Central Park.
Foot Pain.
Side Stitch.
The course was LONG.

The Ugly:

Harlem Hill – 3 times!!

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes. Yes.

Do it if you can. You won’t regret it (unless you hate hills lol).

No, it’s not an easy course. Only a little over 5,000 runners usually participate so small race by NYC standards.

Final Stats:

Next Up:

A Race-cation. In Bermuda! Should be a blast…

may still be a hilly race but should be WARMER

There is now a new link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

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

I’m linking up also with this new link-up:

Formerly the Running Coaches’ Corner, it’s back with new co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Running on Happy, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Fauxrunner.

Happy Running! Ever run this race? Have you raced in NYC? What is your favorite half marathon? Ever run one totally under-trained? Please share.

February 1, 2020 by Darlene

Ultimate Coffee Date for February

It’s that time of the month…

Image result for bermuda starbucks mug

to join up with Coco & Deborah for their ultimate coffee date.

Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I’ve taken up yoga again. Chair Yoga. Lol

Where I work they offered a 4 week class.

Many people think it’s for “old” folks but it’s so you don’t get sweaty or have to change clothes during the work day.

It was very fun. I hope they offer it again.

Do you do yoga? If you do, do you do it on your own or sign up for classes? Ever take a chair yoga class?

Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I have started going to PT in hopes of curing my sore foot. Even though the xray and MRI revealed no abnormality with my foot, it still hurts. I got a cortisone shot… no real improvement.

Image may contain: one or more people, phone and closeup

Hoping that my PT lady works miracles.

Have you ever gone to PT to get rid of pain?

Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I am running another inaugural race. The problem with that is that there are NO reviews and you have no idea about the logistics or the course.

Do you often sign up for inaugural races or do you prefer established ones?

Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I am still trying to figure out what is the best running shoe for me … yes, after 10 years of running.

I tried Altra Torin Plush. Nope!!

I loved my Nikes but after the strained calf muscle, I switched to Mizuno Inspires.

Now with the foot neuroma….

I’m also trying Brooks Ghost.

Champ likes them 🙂

Anyone else have problems finding the right running shoe? Anyone else run with a neuroma??

Over coffee…

I’d tell you that my word this year is Patience. So I didn’t sign up for an entry to the Brooklyn Half Marathon in May. Big time FOMO on that one.

Instead I registered for a local half that same weekend. That'[s me being patient lol.

Anyone else impulsively register for races? Did you try to register for Brooklyn?

Happy Running! Got anything to spill? Share it here!

January 28, 2020 by Darlene

What Kind of Blogger Are You?

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner) and you should too.

I love to read running blogs. I love that they are all so different. Of course, they would be because all runners are different.

Image result for bloggers

My topic today is: What Kind of Blogger Are You?

(These types are in no particular order.)

The Coach

You are a certified running coach or you are an experienced runner. You post advice on how often to run, what to wear, how to train, when to stretch, what to eat, etc.

I benefit from these bloggers’ posts especially if I going to be running a new distance, a new type of course or just need information of a particular running topic.

The Race Reviewer

You run a lot of races and write detailed recaps of each one.

These posts are really helpful to me when I am going to be running that same race. I also enjoy reading them if I have followed that blogger’s training.

The Over Sharer

You write about anything and everything…from TMI to your pets, to your job or your family, etc.

These posts are often not related to running but help me get to know the person who is blogging better and I may even identify with some of the personal issues shared.

The Entertainer

Your posts are funny, include humorous memes or just make the reader laugh.

There are days that I really need to not to be serious about running.

The Foodie

You post advice on what to eat, on different types of diets or you include recipes.

Except when I am hungry at work and look at these delicious food pics, I do enjoy the sharing of recipes and advice of what to eat related to running.

The Cheerleader

Your posts are encouraging, motivating and inspiring. You write about the ups and downs of your running. You are honest but provide hope.

Of course, I always enjoy reading these type of posts. Running is hard and we all need a little encouragement now and then no matter how successful we are.

The Business Promoter

Often, your blog is your business or a way to earn money. Your posts are paid or sponsored by a product or group.

It doesn’t bother me at all if you are paid to write but I only appreciate those posts if the blogger actually uses the product that she/he is reviewing and is honest about it.

The Journal Keeper

You post a chronicle of your daily activities: how many miles you run, if you bike, cross-train, do yoga, swim, etc. You even account for your rest days.

I am often in awe of how active and consistent some bloggers are.

The Photographer

You share photos of your runs, your races, your race-cations. The pictures may be selfies or scenes from your runs.

They say “a picture tells a story.” I do enjoy these stories. Keep snapping away.

I’m linking also up with Coaches Corner–Debbie and Marc.

So what kind of a blogger am I?

What kind of blogger are you (if you blog) and what kind of running bloggers do you enjoy the most? Please share.

Happy Running!

January 24, 2020 by Darlene

2020 – What’s My Word?

Will You Take the One Word Challenge This Year?

Well, it’s that time of year. (Well, maybe a little late. Better late than never.)

Time to pick ONE WORD to focus on for the entire year. (If you’ve never heard about the My One Word approach, here is a summary:

Lose the long the list of changes you want to make this year and instead pick one word. This process forces clarity by taking all of your big plans for life change and narrowing them down into a single thing. Your one word focuses on your character and creates a vision for your future.)

I started this in 2014 and have continued the tradition every year after:

Word Relax handwritten on sandy beach - Royalty-free Handwriting Stock Photo

2018:

And 2019:

refocus

So in 2019, this is how I said I would RE-FOCUS:

This is the first thing that I will change. It applies to running as well as life. Less STRESS in 2019. In other words, some runs won’t happen, some races will suck, PRs may be elusive. My job is just a job. It is what it is.
So this one has to do with priorities. Trying to do it all means not doing some things well. The hard part will be deciding what is important. In the past year, I was trying to keep up with tennis, maintain decent speed on short races and complete a few half marathons. In the mix was traveling as part of my job, vacations, family events and seeing my friends, etc. There were days that I was just going through the motions. In 2019, I may just have to let some things go and concentrate on those things that matter most.
I admit that this past year, I may have been in a running rut. I got complacent with my training because I was still successful …enough. I feel like I need a change. I want to do something different and something that involves effort. Once I decide, there will be no excuses. It may be joining a gym or signing up for yoga classes or trying spinning or even playing on a tennis team. I may even start to quilt again. I could even start a new job.

So how did I do?

I’ve ACCEPTED my job for what it is and instead, focused on its benefits. I felt less stressed about race finish times and PRs and enjoyed my runs and races more than in the past. CHECK – change
I made the decision NOT to play tennis. I instead concentrated on family, friendships and racing. CHECK – priorities
I ran my first MARATHON!! CHECK – effort

Re-Focusing in 2019 was a success in my opinion!

And now on to 2020…

What is my word? Should I pick one this year?

1.My first thought was skip the whole “word” thing. I tend to forget about it until it’s time to pick another word.

2. On the other hand, it’s a good way to look back on the past year and also look ahead to the coming year.

3. What word should I pick?

many ideas for this year and future years…

4. So my word for this year is:

Image result for patience

So what does it mean?

the will or ability to wait or endure without complaint
steadiness, endurance, or perseverance in the performance of a task

5. So how will PATIENCE fit into my running in 2020?

On the whole, I am not a patient person. In fact, I am pretty impulsive. So this will be a BIG challenge.

If I cannot run, find another activity rather than whining about not running.

Related image

When I was healthy, I signed up for a lot of races..and then things changed. So I need to hold off on clicking that “Register” button from time to time so I can properly train for a race rather than just “do” it.

AND PATIENCE

PRs may happen. PRs may not happen but you often can’t predict when they will happen.

Image result for patience"

I have to start out races slower so I can negatively split a few. I must remember that it should feel easy at the start of a race and that I need to keep my energy under control so I don’t fade in the latter parts of a race.

Image result for patience"

Here are some links related to running and patience:

So how am I am doing so far with relation to PATIENCE:

Several times a week, I am using the stationary bike at the gym in order to avoid running too many weekly miles (until my foot is pain-free.)
Although I could have qualified or registered for the Brooklyn Half Marathon in May, I decided to wait and sign up for a local May half (if I am healthy).
I did run the Fred Lebow Half Marathon but very cautiously with zero expectations of a good finish time.

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

Happy Running! If you were to choose ONE word for your focus throughout this year, what word would you choose? Are you PATIENT when it comes to running?

January 21, 2020 by Darlene

Winter Series #3 Race Recap

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

This weekend, they offered distances of 3M, 10K and 25K.

I ran this race in 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2019.

: WS 3 – 2019 with Judy

: WS 3 – 2017

: WS 3 – 2015 with Bridget & Elisa

: WS 3 – 2013 with Melissa

I am in throes of injury-ridden half marathon training. So I ran 10 miles (in pain) the day before.

Normally, I would have skipped the race. But it was sunny and 65 degrees!!! Yes, 65 in January.

So what the hell?… I decided to go and walk the course.

And many of my friends were running it.

short sleeves in January…woo hoo! check out that guy with NO shirt!

All the distances started at the same point (but separated at various points during the race.)

I’m in the back with the white t-shirt

And I walked while my friends ran/walked.

She was walking so fast that I gave up trying to keep up with her.

My friend Jeri is running and there’s Annie walking…look at her go!! My hero!

There were times when I did run to keep up with my friends.

And my foot hurt less when I ran than when I walked.

Eventually we reached the finish line.

But they had mismarked the course – 2.5 miles instead of 3 miles!!

Of course, I sprinted as not to finish last.

Then I got my refreshments – chili and many slices of delicious bread.

So I may not have really RACED but I participated. It was a chance to get some fresh air and exercise. My foot was no worse. Win. Win.

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

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

I’m linking also up with Coaches Corner–Debbie and Marc.

Happy Running! How you are enduring the winter? Are you doing any winter races? Have you ever walked a race?

January 14, 2020 by Darlene

The Best of 2019

Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner) and you should too.

My Topic this week is as I and other bloggers have done in past years, is My Year of Running in 2019! (Better late than never…)

Warning. I’m not good at picking just one or even two. Lol

Best Race(s):

So what determines a “best” race? Fastest? Best Food? Most scenic course? Most organized? Best swag?

Any or all of the above.

Helderberg 2 Hudson Half Marathon

It was the first annual for this local race and though my finish time was not a PR, it did qualify me the for NYC Half 2020.

Great Sacandaga Half Marathon

Another first annual race and it got me my FIRST trophy.

Freihofer’s Run for Women

How could I not mention the only race I have run every year. Besides, this local 5k was probably one of my fastest of 2019.

I did enjoy all of my 31 races in 2019. Each one was special in a different way.

Best Run(s):

My runs are not usually very good or very exciting.

But I’d say that my best ones were done with my local running friends. We call our group the “Sole Sisters.”

They have gotten me to run longer and faster and to walk less. The best part is being accountable during those hot summer days and long cold winter months.

I would be remiss not to mention that my job has allowed me run on some neat new bike paths and parks in 2019. That has been exciting (the running not the job or the traveling).

Hauppauge, NY

Vestal, NY

Liberty, NY

And then there were my FIRST group trail runs.

beautiful view!

lots of laughs

Best New Piece(s) of Running Gear:

I have bought many pairs of running shoes. In 2019, I switched from Nikes to Mizunos.

happy feet from March to November

I have, of course, bought countless Skirt Sports running clothes. In 2019, I experimented with a new skirt (instead of my usual Gym Girl Ultra).

Hello Cascade…

I love my Zensah Compression Calf Sleeves. I have many pairs of compression calf sleeves and socks but some are too tight, some are not tight enough. Zensahs are perfect.

My favorite has been my new After Shokz headphones. I find wearing headphones so uncomfortable that I usually just play music or podcasts right from my phone. Well, I will disturb passers-by no more.

Most Inspirational Runner(s)

Well, there are quite a few.

Image result for break 2 hours marathon"

whoa .. sub 2 hour marathon!!

At 61 years old, Joan Samuelson ran within 30 minutes of her winning time 40 years ago!!!!

Meb, of course but my NYCM roommate Lacey who at age 33 has already run 22 marathons (and BQed).

Favorite Picture from a Run or Race:

Again there are a few (although I didn’t buy any of them):

Surf Town Half Marathon

NYC Marathon

Great Sacandaga Half Marathon

NYC Half Marathon

Race Experience(s) you would repeat in a heart beat:

Well you know I love race-cations so there were several in 2019.

Brooklyn Hot Chocolate 15k

I loved the swag for this first annual race and the weekend shenanigans with friends were unforgettable.

Publix Half Marathon

This Florida race course was beautiful but it poured the whole 13.1 miles. I need a do-over.

Surf Town Half Marathon

Who doesn’t love a race with ocean/beach views?

I doubt I will be able to repeat any of these but I would if I could.

If you could sum up your year in a couple of words what would they be?

Running…Vacations…Friends…Marathon

Looking forward to what 2020 brings…

I’m linking also up with Coaches Corner–Debbie and Marc.

Happy Running! What are some of the highlights of 2019 in running? Please share.

January 10, 2020 by Darlene

Looking Ahead

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

My Topic this week is: Looking Ahead to 2020

I’m not into goals but last January, I posted about my plans for 2019 and last week, I reflected on them.

I didn’t do so well but that did not discourage me from setting in motion some plans for the coming year.

(Warning: I wrote this post before my sore foot woes and I decided not to delete it cuz you never know…)

1. Run 1000 miles.

It’s a number that I strive to meet each year. I may or may not reach it but I should come close if I have been running consistently all year and I have not gotten injured.

See the source image

2. Add another physical activity to my life besides running.

I’d prefer it to be tennis but that will probably not happen until I retire or get a different job.

So I’d like to take a yoga class now and then, go for lunchtime walks or even hit the gym.

this instructor is my favorite – she has monthly 2 hour sessions on different parts of the body – geared toward runners

3. Participate often in local running group runs.

This was an unexpected activity from last year. I ran in many of the ARE summer trail runs. I started late because I hesitated on joining this group. I plan go to ALL of them this year even if my friends are not going.

Huyck Preserve

I also started attending some other group runs such as SOAR and Ice Cream Runs. If they are scheduled again, I plan to participate.

4. Set a PR or Course PR at any distance.

Realistically I think PRs may be out of reach as I age or my foot continues to be a problem.. But since I often run the same races, possibly I can improve at one race.

maybe at Race to the Lakes 15k?

And first time races or distances do not count lol.

5. And finally…. Run a ~~Half Marathon~~ 15K or Half Marathon Every Month.

Yes, you heard that right. Twelve Distance races in Twelve Months.

(Ok maybe I jinxed myself when I came up with the Half Marathon goal in November – right afterward, my foot started to hurt… so I edited the goal to include 15ks as well)

So it may not happen but it will be fun trying (virtual ones count.)

January – Fred LeBow Half Marathion in NYC or Winter Series #4 15k
February – ZOOMA Bermuda Half Marathon
March – NYC Half Marathon
April – Helderberg 2 Hudson Half Marathon
May – Sacandaga or Steel Rail Half Marathon
June – Race to the Lakes 15k
July – Boilermaker 15k?
August – a virtual 15k
September – Adirondack or Palio Half Marathon
October – Finger Lakes or Smuttynose Half Marathon
November – Stockadeathon 15K
December – Ted Corbitt 15K or Palm Beach Half Marathon?

Feel free to recommend some…

Happy Running! Any goals or plans for 2020? When you get injured, do you re-write your goals? Please share.

January 7, 2020 by Darlene

Bill Hogan Winter Series #2 (3.75 m) Race Recap

January 1, 2020 Noon

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

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

and it was a very cold one

Then in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, I wasn’t that crazy and I only ran the 3.5 Miler.

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

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

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

Today it was forecast to be in the high 30s but I was worried about the wind on this course. It is always windy!

I wore the usual winter layers. The good thing was that there is an indoor place to hang out before and after the race.

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

hanging with SS (Sole Sister) Jeri

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

SS Judy chose to volunteer rather than run this year

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

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

My biggest worry, of course, has been my foot. It hasn’t been pain-free since November 10. There were 3 weeks off from running completely and then a few slow run/walks.

I told myself to have a “relaxing” race and not try anything stupid to make my foot pain worse.

Hangover_Half-002-L

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

pic from a previous year…no snow this year but no blue skies either

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

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

There were 208 runners running the 3.5 miler (and 197 in the half). I was never running alone. I ran with someone I knew several times when they caught up to me but soon they left me behind.

I wasn’t bothered at all by my apparent lack of speed. I was just trying to get a run in. I wanted to run the race without walking too much since I rarely do that during my weekday runs. And I did for the first three miles despite the fact that my foot hurt with every step. Unfortunately with my 6 miler the previous Saturday, my foot pain eventually went away. It did not today. I tried to ignore and just finish so the pain would end.

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

another pic from a previous year

As I mentioned, I was running until mile 3. This was the most boring part of the course as well as uphill. To make matters worse, the wind cam out of nowhere here. I struggled and the wind seem to suck the life out of my legs. Runners were passing me by, even a runner pushing a child in a stroller. I finally gave it and walked. But it was just as hard to walk into the wind and so I started running again. At this point, I just wanted to finish. and be pain-free.

Finally, it was over and I was surprised to see that the clock read 35 minutes. I knew that it would not be close to a course PR but I actually thought that I was even slower than that.

So I sprinted and crossed at 35:06.

I was content!!

Soon after, a few friends finished. We chatted. One in particular shared her identical foot issues and gave me the name her PT that enabled her to run pain-free. Score!

Eventually Jeri finished too. But I was too busy chatting and didn’t get her pic.

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

Mile splits:

mile 1: 9:13
mile 2: 9:12
mile 3: 9:28
.75 – 9:40

Good old positive splits. Nothing has changed for 2020. LOL

Again this year, the course was long!! I was not surprised that I was slower than last year (34:15) and far behind my course PR from 2018 (34:04). Nevertheless, I was happy with how I ran the race. I never felt really tired or that I was pushing hard. I think if it weren’t for my sore foot, I could have run the whole thing and had an even better finish time.

Definitely not disappointed to not have chosen to run 13.1 miles.

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

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

I waited around for awhile and chatted with other runners. Another runner also told me about her similar foot pain (bone bruises & tendinitis = 6 weeks of biking instead of running). It seems that everyone has a story and a remedy…so we’ll what happens with my foot.

At these winter races, they give 10 year AG awards to the top 2 in each group. Two years ago, I won 2nd place and a free loaf of bread. Not so this year. I was 4th I think. Jeri and I did not hang around and went out for coffee instead.

So a race and a perfect way to start off 2020! (Now only if my foot pain would go away soooon!)

It’s Tuesday so I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).

I’m linking also up with Coaches Corner–Debbie and Marc.

Happy Running! Did you race on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day? If not, when is your first race of 2020?

January 5, 2020 by Darlene

Weekly Run Down for 12.30.19-1.5.20: Welcome 2020!

As so the decade has ended…

And I was home for the second week in a row. My running was slow, painful but continuing (which was a good thing, I think.)

Last Week –

Monday – My 8 year anniversary… serious ankle surgery due to a broken fibula and tibia…

Five months of recovery and I was back to running.

May 31, 2012 with my running tribe at that time – my first outdoor run was a 5k race LOL

To celebrate, I had to run, right? Too bad it was raining and sleeting. No choice but to head to the gym for a few miles on the dreadmill.

I seem to be a frequent visitor here

Tuesday – New Year’s Eve. I normally would have run but I had planned to race the next day and I was going out with the hubby. But first I rode the bike at the gym.

Wednesday – Day Off and I started it with a local race. Winter Series #2. There were several options but I chose the 3.5 miler (or actually 3.75). I knew a lot of runners here so it was great to catch up. Only one of my “Sole Sisters” ran it this year.

my foot hurt (more than during the 6 miler on Sat.) still glad I did it. Crazy, huh?

Thursday – Just in case the doctor told me to stop running, I ran after work again…back to UAlbany with a friend.

for some strange reason, my foot felt a lot better during today’s run

Then I went out to dinner with a former co-worker. The holiday over-eating continues.

Friday – Foot Doctor appt. I told him that it felt a little better but that it still hurt. He wanted to give me a cortisone shot. I wanted a MRI so I could know exactly what was wrong. So I went for an MRI. Now I’m waiting for the results. After work and before mah jongg, I went back to the gym to ride the bike.

maybe these Altras will cure my foot woes

Saturday – Long run scheduled with the Sole Sisters. With a possible half marathon in a few weeks, I had decided to try and increase my distance. Unfortunately there was rain…lots of rain so I got my nails done instead… and did a lot of cleaning around the house.
Sunday – Rescheduled long run. It was cold and windy but at least dry. Many (but not all) of the Sole Sisters went able to come to run, walk and or have brunch.

foot pain = a lot, a little, none, repeat = frustrating

This Coming Week –

Monday – rest day, train to NYC, dinner with friends
Tuesday – run (High Line)
Wednesday – rest day, Broadway show
Thursday – run (Central Park)
Friday – rest day, train home
Saturday – long run with Sole Sisters (10 miles)
Sunday – Winter Series #3 (3 miler)

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.

Happy Running! How is your running going? What’s new with you? How did you spend your new Year’s Eve? Have you raced yet in 2020? Any experiences with cortisone shots? Please share.

January 3, 2020 by Darlene

Looking Back and Having Coffee

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

My Topic this week is: Looking Back on 2019

I’m not really into goals but last January, I posted about my plans for 2019.

Here’s what I wrote:

1. Run 1000 miles.

It’s just a number. But that number means two things to me. I have been running consistently all year and that I have not been injured.

2. Take some yoga classes.

I’m not good at yoga. I have zero flexibility. But it is relaxing and my life is not. So I think it will help me both mentally and physically.

3. Do some strength or cross training.

I hope to play more tennis starting in June but I do have access to a local free gym. I’d like to get there on some of my rest days.

4. Train seriously for One Race.

Not sure which one but I have already registered for five half marathons so maybe the local one. Or maybe a 5k.

5. And finally…. Finish a 26.2 mile race.

Yes, you heard that right. I haven’t registered yet (next week) but it seems crazy not to take advantage of qualifying for this year’s NYC Marathon.

So how did I do??

1 . Run 1000 miles.

Nope. 947. If not for my calf injury in February and sore foot in December, I may have reached that number. As I said, “It’s only a number.” I am NOT disappointed in my 2019 mileage.

2. Take some yoga classes.

Not until November. I blame it on work travel which was often insane and marathon training.

So better late than never. I have taken a few classes in the last two months of the year. Maybe that will be a sign of the future.

3. Do some strength or cross training.

No on this one, as well. I decided to not join a tennis club and play weekly. As a result, I played during my May tennis vacation in May and not again since then.

As far as the gym, just an occasional trip to use the arm machines or the treadmill or recently the bike. Nothing to write home about for same reason as not going to yoga classes.