As you know I’ve run the NYC Marathon 3 times! (2019, 2023, 2024).
I did qualify for it this year and it was a hard decision but I decided NOT to run it but instead to support my friends (as they did for me).
So four of us took the train to Manhattan early Marathon Sunday.
We met Kevin and left our luggage in his and Deirdre’s room and then headed by subway to our first stop in Brooklyn to cheer on Stan, Sherry and Deirdre.
Our first minor snafu was that the NYRR tracking app was not working and so we were stressing about that and missed our subway stop.
We did arrive at mile 7 in plenty of time.
With signs and bells in hand, we caught all three!!
First, Stan who was happy to see us.
Both Sherry and Deirdre were doing well at this point too.
I think Deirdre was happier to see Kevin. LOL.
I was a little worried about how sunny it was and the temps were warmer than predicted. Even we were warm (and we were not running.).
Next stop had us back on the subway to Manhattan where we’d wait to catch our runners on First Ave at mile 18.
We mistakenly stationed ourselves next to a Gel station hence feet sticking to the ground and we also somehow missed Stan.
Great news was that Sherry (who got injured during her training) was looking great.
Deirdre, however, needed a group hug…
Each of the three times that I ran this race, I started in Wave 4. The runners around me were planning to finish in 4 hours. They rarely walked.
I definitely felt out of place.
Today was my first experience watching those runners from the last wave.
I have a new admiration for these slower finishers. They were happier, driven, persistent and so appreciative of our support and being out there and running this race. They would finish and they didn’t care how long it took. No one out there was checking their paces or looking at their watches.
After mile 18, we were able to walk to Fifth Avenue and rush to catch Sherry at mile 23. She was smiling because she had a much better race than she expected… walking at a consistent 13:xx pace the entire time. (Amazing!)
Now the sun was starting to go down but the runners thought at this point that “they were almost there.”
I knew better because the last 5k is HARD!! UP 5th Ave, into the park, Up 59th St., back into the park…
We saw the sweeper car go by and then ambulances as they were taking down the water stops and opening the roads.
This made me sad but the runners, they just proceeded onto the sidewalk and off they went focusing on getting through that finish line.
Eventually Deirdre arrived… she was struggling and so Kevin walked with her into the park.
We wanted to catch Sherry and Stan who may have already finished so we walked quickly through the park (in the dark) until we exited onto Central Park West.
Not sure why we rushed because it takes forever once a runner finishes to get out of the park.
Eventually we found them and we all took the subway back to the hotel.
We had dinner reservations so we headed to the restaurant and the marathoners arrived after their showers.
Deirdre and Kevin joined us for an additional celebratory meal the next day.
Final thoughts:
Honestly, I’d have preferred to have run the marathon than support it.
Finally I would have had training partners and local friends to share the before and after on race day. (I didn’t have that in any of my 3 NYC marathons).
FOMO all day!
Who knew back in February that it would have turned out this way? Who knew that I would be healthy and they would run the race too.
That being said, I DO NOT INTEND TO RUN THE NYC MARATHON. (That ship has sailed, as they say.)
In fact, I do not intend to run ANY more marathons!!!
I’m glad that I went and supported my friends. It was a fun and rewarding experience. I’m so proud of the grit and determination that my friends showed.
And I did run during the trip…
along the East River on Marathon Monday
25 more half marathons until I reach 100… a more realistic feat, I think.
Happy Running! How do you feel about spectating a marathon vs running one? Please Share.
I started the week cheering on my 3 friends who were running the NYC Marathon and ended it today running my own race, a local 15k race!
Last Week –
Sunday – Four of us boarded the train in Albany to go to Manhattan. As soon as we arrived, we dropped off our bags at the hotel (though it was not my hotel), picked up Deirdre’s SO and took the subway to our 1st meeting point (mile 7 in Brooklyn).
Perfect weather for both runners and supporters!! So lucky!
Cheering is hard but so rewarding (esp. for the BOP runners). After we saw all 3 runners, we left Brooklyn and took the subway to Manhattan – 1st Ave (mile 18).
Our runners changed order and things were not going as planned for two of them but we cheered loudly and supported as best as we could.
We were able to walk to our next stop – 5th Ave (mile 23).
The sun was going down but still not cold. At this point, we were hopeful that all 3 would indeed finish.
After our last friend passed us, we had to cut through the park (in the dark) to catch the first one to finish.
Eventually, they all exited the park and we found them!
We had dinner reservations so we took the subway back to the hotel, checked in and quickly walked to the restaurant.
We had a lovely dinner/drinks.
My hotel was downtown so I had to retrieve my bag and take the subway there.
Believe it or not, we arrived at 11 am and I didn’t get to my hotel until 11 pm.
A long day so so worth it.
before, during (top) and after (more pics on FB)
Monday – I took advantage of being downtown and I went for an early morning run (along the East River & the Financial District).
After I checked out of my hotel, I headed uptown to Central Park. While the runners got their medals engraved, a few of us had drinks and then we all met up and went out to lunch.
I was taking a later train than the others which gave me time to go exploring…
I noticed that some places like Macys and Bryant Park were getting ready for Christmas.
Cari recommended a cool museum that was near my hotel, I headed there before I needed to pick up my bag and go back uptown to Penn Sta,
more pics on FB
Tuesday – I started out the day with a run with my friend Jenny. I was loving the extra morning daylight and WFH this week.
glad we went out early because it got sooo windy later in the day…
Wednesday – This morning I went to the gym before work… and got treated to a beautiful sunrise…
After work, I was supposed to run with the STEM group but they cancelled due to high winds forecasted. I decided to go right after work since it didn’t seem to be windy yet… it wasn’t though it was raining lightly
**********yes, someone has their tree lit already… Nov 5?
Thursday – I had an early morning dentist appt but since it was near the rail trail, I did my run there before returning to work…
so windy and cold heading out but warmed up when I turned around (at least it was sunny
After work, I met my BFF for our bi-monthly walk and chat.
such a pretty night…
Friday – Back to the gym and after work I met a friend for dinner before my weekly mah jongg game.
Saturday – Since I had a race the next day, I was planning to just walk but my friend Deb had no one to run with so I accompanied her…Then of course, afterward, there was brunch.
Before brunch, I stopped off to pick up my race bib and shirt for the next day
…got my nails done, did some grocery shopping and finally planned my outfit for the next day (with rain in the forecast 😦 )
so hard to decide what to wear this time of year
Sunday -Stockade-athon 15k!
Barbara and I plan to carpool… fingers crossed that we don’t get too wet…
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.
This race is not new but I have never run it before.
Here is the description of the race from the website:
The City of Albany’s Trick or Trot Pumpkin Run is a great race for all ages, featuring a beautiful Halloween decorated course through Washington Park!
You can run or walk the course and costumes are encouraged. This race features chip timing by ARE Event Productions. All registered runners will receive a wicking fabric shirt.
Warmups and lining up by 3:15pm, race starts at 3:45pm for competitive runners who expect to finish in under 35 minutes and 4:30pm for Fun Run and Walkers who expect to finish in 35+ minutes.
Before the race, enjoy our pre-party event from 12pm – 4pm featuring FREE family friendly entertainment, including free pumpkins, candy, vendors, decorations & DJ.
Following the race, we will host an awards recognition posting of the results featuring age-based divisional awards. Additionally, we will be selecting Best Costume prizes for participating runners.
It seemed like a fun festive race so I signed up.
Big negative:
A 5k that was actually more important was being held on the same day and I registered for that race after I signed up for this one.
dedicated to an old friend/colleague
But as I said above, it seemed like a fun race… so WTH?
Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:
Not much preparation for this 5k…
I ran a long run last weekend (7 mi) and a half marathon the weekend before.
I did get in a few short runs during the work week…
And as I mentioned above, I ran a 5k race several hours before this race!
and that race course was super hilly!!!!!!
Race Day:
Since this was the first time that I ran this race, I was not familiar with the course.
But this map was posted:
There was no elevation chart but here’s one from my Garmin:
2 loops
I had picked up my bib the day before.
along with the shirt, you got a can of locally brewed cider
I knew it would be crowded on race day so I took some photos there after I picked up my bib.
they gave away 700 pumpkins on race day
lots of photo ops for families
I left early because I knew that it might be difficult to find on the street parking. I just grabbed a spot and walked to the park.
I arrived at the start in plenty of time so I walked around for a bit surveying the course…
and checking out ALL the costumes…
but I got chilly and so I waited in the lake house. (It was less sunny and windier than in the morning when I ran my earlier 5k.)
There I bumped into a former colleague.
There’s not much to tell with a 1.6 mile looped course but here’s what I remember:
I eventually headed to the start.
This race was chip timed so it didn’t matter where I started.
So I stood just somewhere in the middle of the pack. I saw one runner that I knew and we chatted.
The costumes very few elaborate. I wondered how they could run in them.
There were TWO waves for this race.
The first one started at 3:45 pm and it was for those who planned to finish under 35 minutes. (I obviously chose to run in this wave.) There were about 200 runners.
The second one would start at 4:30 pm for the slower runners and walkers. It seemed that more people started in the 2nd wave. Their costumes were even crazier.
I did start my Garmin for this race.
At first, my feet felt like I was running in cement boots and my pace was very slow… I wondered if I would finish last.
Those morning hills affected me more than I thought.
The park is not flat but usually I can handle the hills.
Soon my legs loosened up a little and I was able to keep up my slow pace…
The whole course was decorated for Halloween… a fun way to take your mind off the miles.
There was a water stop somewhere during the first mile and the last mile.
Yes, this race had you running the course TWICE.
I have to say that I walked at both water stops and throughout whenever my legs tired (probably on the up hills).
But at least, I had enough energy to sprint through the finish line.
I crossed at 32:XX.
My first thought was “Not Bad” and then I realized that it could have been a running 5K PW.
Or a 2 5k in one day PR. LOL
Post Race Activities:
I headed to the food line which offered fruit and snacks. They also gave you a small bag of Halloween candy.
I bumped into 2 other older ladies. It turned out that we were all in the same age group so we stayed around for the awards.
We all won!!
Additional Race Reflections:
It was definitely a fun race. Even more fun for those younger runners who dressed up. And for families who wanted to do a race together.
I prefer to race in the morning and it wasn’t a great idea to run two races in one day.
I doubt that I will repeat this race… but maybe if I can convince friends to join me.
Positives:
Well organized
Well marked course
Cute race shirts
Some familiar faces.
Immediate results
Lots of excited runners, costumes and decorations
Walkers and slower runners had a later start time
Negatives:
Afternoon start
Generic medal as an award
2 loops
Would I recommend this race?
Yes!! A good race for those who like to dress up on Halloween.
Final Stats:
Next Up:
Happy Running! Run a 5k race lately? Do you enjoy 5ks? Ever run TWO in one day? Have run any Halloween-themed races? Please share.
Yup. All everyone has been posting about on social media is the NYC Marathon.
I could have run it but I decided (after 3 times) to skip it and go to NYC to support my friends who were racing.
Still FOMO.
Last Week –
Sunday – Started the day at the gym…
then returned to the preserve that I went to last Sunday… this time the trails were NOT closed for duck hunting.
another nice fall day
Made some signs for marathon spectating.
Monday – DAY OFF.
Got in a short early run Nope. I decided that with the hike scheduled for today that I should run tomorrow instead. It was also 30 degrees! Brrrr (Not ready yet!)
and then I met our new HBF Emilee for a hike.
wolf creek falls
Of course, we had lunch after… (and it was delicious- butternut squash gnocchi)
and then one more hike.
❤ that huge mushroom
We got back late and it was chilly so I decided to skip my last pickleball lesson.
Caught up on some TV, reading and cat bonding while the hubby played tennis…
sometimes they like each other…
Tuesday – Started today with yesterday’s run. My friend Jenny (who had just run the MCM joined me for walk). Jenny bailed so I bailed too… instead I went to the gym.
It warmed up a little so I went for a run at lunchtime
lots of Halloween spirit in the ‘hood
and then to the office.
I had plans to walk with a friend after work
then support this fundraiser
this is for the running group I mentor and I’m on the Board too.
and finally, the big day:
so near where I live… could be dangerous
Wednesday – A busy work day but I was able to sneak out for a lunch walk in the park with Jenny (to hear all about the MCM)
and then the week 8 run with the STEM group after work.
No runners showed this week up so the mentors/coaches just ran or walked together…
had to run with two 20-somethings
Thursday – Live teaching today.
nasty out… needed a HOT latte
I had planned on a quick run after work but it was POURING!!!
I did attend our Zoom STEM board meeting in the evening.
Friday –Live teaching again today.
And I got to go trick or treating with my granddaughter.
Saturday –Last Long Run before my next race – Stockade-athon 15k.
First we stopped off at the train station to wish the marathoners “good luck” and then I ran/walked 8 miles.
had company for 5 of the 8 miles 🙂
As always the run was followed by a long brunch with the walkers and runners.
In the evening, the hubby & I went to dinner at my SIL’s.
and then I had to pack!!
lol
Sunday – I am taking an early train to NYC with 3 running friends… along with signs, planned meeting spots, post race dinner reservations and lots of enthusiasm!!
It’s my first NYCM spectator assignment… I hope all goes well.
This Coming Week on the Run –
Monday – DAY OFF – run, brunch, hang out with NYC marathoners, train home
Tuesday – gym, walk
Wednesday – STEM mentor run
Thursday – run
Friday – gym, mah jongg
Saturday – Walk and Brunch.
Sunday –Stockade-athon 15k
This Coming Week on the Blog –
Tuesday – Treat or Trot Pumpkin 5k Race Recap
Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date
Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this fall? Does it feel like winter where you live? Do you live near a TJ’s or shop there often? Ever spectate at a big marathon? Please share.
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.
I had taught with Carlo for over 20 years. We were exactly the same age. The date of this race coincided with his 72nd birthday.
He was an amazing coach and person. He died suddenly last year and way too soon.
Unfortunately, being humble person, I knew little about Carlo’s running successes until after he died. (He won many races including the Philly marathon).
NYC in 2:24:04 and Boston in 2:25!
How could I not sign up??
Big negatives:
I had already registered for a 5k race that was to be held that afternoon.
I had no idea that it was to be run on the (hilly) cross country course.
Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:
Not much preparation for this 5k…
I ran a long last weekend (7 mi) and a half marathon the weekend before.
I did get in a few short runs during the work week
Here is the description of the race from the website:
The Memorial 5K … is more than just about running—it’s a chance to honor all that he meant to the AHN community and to carry forward the values he lived every day: commitment, kindness, perseverance, and heart.
All proceeds and donations from this event will support initiatives that reflect Coach Cherubino’s values and continue his legacy at Holy Names.
Race Day:
I had my standard breakfast of oatmeal and coffee. I guess I’m a creature of habit.
Since this was the first time that this race was offered, I was not familiar with the course.
There was no elevation chart and the person who was organizing the race no longer worked there. We didn’t get the course map (below) until 2 days before the race.
When I heard that it would be a cross country race, I considered us my entry fee as a donation and skipping the race.
It didn’t start (according to the schedule) until 10 am and it was nearby.
After much deliberation, around 9:30 am, I decided to go and see who was there, interact with the alumni, etc. and then decide whether to cheer or run or maybe walk.
I was planning on 6 miles to train for the 15k race in 2 weeks, anyway.
a little chilly but the blue sky made it picture perfect for a race.
I arrived at 9:45 am – in plenty of time. I got my bib (I hadn’t paid extra for the shirt) and bumped into many of my former students and co-workers.
Such a varied crowd. Current students, parents, alumni and even some of Carlo’s running friends.
Unfortunately the crowd was not as big as it could have been. They didn’t advertise it well and there were many competing events scheduled. (As expected with an inaugural event and one not organized by a runner.)
My good friend Molly (and current PE teacher) showed up to support me.
my outfit was meant to support my connection to Carol. I was the French teacher and he taught Spanish.
When I spotted some older folks…
I decided to give it a shot. Maybe even walk it.
Well, the race was supposed to start at 10:00 am. It did not.
There was an opening ceremony (with a very poor sound system)…
There’s not much to tell with only 1.6 miles done twice but here’s what I remember…
Can it be called a “race” recap if I didn’t race? And it wasn’t even timed (unless you finished in the top 3).
Eventually, we approached the start (a line in the grass).
I had planned to maybe walk and since there was no clock, I never bothered to start my Garmin.
But I got caught up in the excitement and started running.
It had rained the night before so we were often running on high wet grass (I did wear my trail shoes).
Up and down…
Up and down…
All along the course were signs with Carlo’s picture on them and things he used to say to the track team. (sigh)
There were also students were cheering the runners and they were very loud at every big hill.
Part of the course went through the woods. Muddy and often slippery.
I am proud to say that I ran most of it… chatting with an older guy from time to time.
I did walk if there was a big hill… especially the one killer hill that I was not sure that I’d make it as it was so steep and muddy.
But I did.
And you had to repeat the course!!!!!!!!!!
No surprises the 2nd time around.
And I did finish! I didn’t fall and I was far from last (as some did walk it).
Post Race Activities:
As you crossed the finish line (and it was a line in the grass), they asked your name and bib number.
No results that I know of.
There was lots of goodies to munch on after.
They gave out free tee shirts with Carloisms (or Bino as they called him) on the back.
Molly and I stayed for the closing ceremonies.
They gave out medals for the top 3 men and top 3 women finishers.
I was very happy to see that the winning men were Carlo’s friends (so all still speedy and in their 70’s).
And one of female winners was one of my former French students (class of ’86).
she beat the youngin’s
Afterward, Molly and I went out for brunch. I had to carb load for my next 5k (that afternoon), right?
Additional Race Reflections:
Of course, I’m glad I did this race.
My first every cross country race.
I wish that I had started my Garmin. I wonder what my time was???? (It still counted?)
I’m sure if they continue to offer this race, there will be more runners and it will be better organized.
I might even do it again.
Positives:
Nearby
Great Cause
Lots of familiar faces.
Good post race refreshments
Well marked course.
Negatives:
Late start (10 am)
Lack of info at sign up
Hilly trail course
Too loops.
No Timing.
Not well advertised.
Would I recommend this race?
Yes, if you knew Carlo. He taught here for over 40 years. This was a great way to remember him. He would be very happy.
Final Stats:
None!!
Next Up:
5k at 3:45 pm on the SAME DAY!!
Happy Running! Run a 5k race lately? Do you enjoy 5ks? Ever run TWO in one day? What about on a cross country course? Please share.
Sunday – Started the day with a major running shoe declutter… it was hard to get rid of shoes with lots of miles and memories but 4 bags were either donated or thrown away!!
Then I went to gym…
With rain predicted for the next day, I took off to get some fresh air…
unfortunately this preserve was closed for duck hunting but I did find a path
Monday – Yup, rain in the morning but it did end eventually and I was able to get in a run at lunch in the ‘hood (so I thought)
started out in the sun and quickly a thunderstorm came in and drenched me…
and even after work pickleball got cancelled 😦
Tuesday – I met my friend Jenny before work for some quick miles on the track.
getting our 200m drills done…
In the afternoon, I had to set up for class the next day and then head to a needed hair appt (which included a stop at TJ’s.)
Wednesday – Teaching live today so no time for any early morning activities (unless you call my Starbucks stop an activity?) and it was raining. Lucky me!
After work, I attended week 7 of our STEM group.
25 minutes of straight running
Thursday – Back to WFH and another early morning with Jenny… Unfortunately I thought the clock said 5:30 am and it was 6:30… so I was late for our meet-up.
changed up our intervals and had to run faster than planned due to my late arrival
After work, I met my BFF for mall walk. Rain again but so lucky to have run before work.
Friday – I hadn’t gone to the gym since Sunday so it was time…
I picked up my bib/shirt for Saturday’s PM 5k.
included some local brewed cider
and then mah jongg in the evening.
Saturday – I started the day at the Carlo Cherubino Memorial 5k. It was held at the school where I had taught French for many years and was dedicated to Carlo (Spanish teacher, track coach, outstanding runner and friend) who had died last fall. I knew nothing about the race besides that I wanted to support the school and his memory.
To my surprise, it was held on the cross country course… UGH! A hilly one!!! Two loops!
But I saw so many familiar faces and I remained upright so all is well.
channeling my French teacher roots with my outfit
Before this race was announced, I had registered for a Halloween-themed race in the park –Trick and Trot Pumpkin 5k. It was to start at 3:45 and looked to be a lot of fun.
Though my legs were tired, at least it was road race…with some hills in the mix on another 2 loop course..
So many creative costumes and lots of enthusiasm and support. Even though it my slowest 5k this year, I did win my age group.
bumped into an old friend and made 2 new friends…
Sunday – Recovery day with a gym visit and a hike/walk.
This Coming Week on the Run –
Monday – DAY OFF – run, hike, pickleball
Tuesday – gym, walk
Wednesday – STEM mentor run
Thursday – run, ZOOM Stem board mtg.
Friday – trick or treating with my granddaughter
Saturday – Long Run and Brunch, dinner at my SIL’s
Sunday – train to NYC to spectate at the NYC Marathon!!
This Coming Week on the Blog –
Tuesday – NYC Marathon as a Spectator
Friday – Runfessions
Happy Running! Training for any big or small races this fall? Does it feel like fall where you live? Run any Halloween-themed races? Two races in one day? Please share.
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.
Race-cations have been an annual tradition with my running friends since 2017. We started in Corning, NY and then traveled to Montreal, and Brooklyn, NY.
In 2020 and 2021, my friends and I rented a house for 3 nights in Hampton Beach, NH and ran a half marathon (among other fun shenanigans.)
It was so much fun that the next year, we rented in Old Orchard Beach, Maine and we ran the Portland Half Marathon or Marathon Relay.
Two years ago, we stayed in NYS but rented a house in the Finger Lakes Region. We all raced different distances (5k, 13.1, 18 mi) and enjoyed ourselves (despite some rain.)
Last year we had fun during our time on Cape Cod.
We rented a house in Lake Placid (NY) this year.
So I signed up for the Lake Placid Classic Half Marathon (HM #75) for several reasons:
A race-cation.
Race was held on Columbus Day weekend. I would have Monday off from work.)
My friends would be racing with me.
Views of the Adirondack high peaks.
There was a 5k and 10k option in addition to a half marathon.
I was mostly trained as a result of a half marathon 5 weeks prior.
About the race:
Originally started in 1970 as a marathon run from Paul Smiths to Lake Placid, this family-friendly race has evolved into a beloved annual event featuring the beautiful Olympic Village of Lake Placid and some of the most breathtaking fall scenery in the Adirondacks. Each year an average of 550 athletes gather together for this amazing community race to help raise funds for a local cause and to enjoy the splendor of racing during peak fall foliage.
The 2025 Lake Placid Classic Half Marathon, 10K, and—new this year!—5K begin and end at the Lake Placid Horse Show Grounds surrounded by the Olympic Ski Jumps, the 1980 Olympic Cauldron, and views of the breathtaking High Peaks. The race route encompasses two moderate hills, one at the start and one towards the end. The start time is 8:00 am, with the course closing at 12:00 pm.
Half Marathon Training:
If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. But I do run shorter distances several times during the work week.
And on the weekends, I try to do my Long Run. Usually most of my miles are with one or more of my running friends or part of another race; 5 mi+5k +2 mi, 10k, 11 mi, 10k, 5k+3 mi, 13.1. (Not exactly following my 8, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8 mile plan)
Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:
My taper consisted of 5k race with miles added before and after (as pictured above) and two short runs during the work week.
We carpooled and left for Lake Placid early on Friday morning. Our first stop was for lunch in Wilmington, followed by a drive up to the top of Whiteface Mountain.
great views on a bluebird sky day…
At 3 pm, we met the owner of our VrBo in Lake Placid. She gave us a quick tour and then we headed to get our half marathon bib/shirts, check out the race start and parking.
discount coupons in the bag too
Last year, everyone either ran the half marathon or the 5k. Although this year, a 5k and 10k were offered, only four of us registered for a race and it was for the half marathon (however one was injured and couldn’t run it). The others chose to be our cheerleaders.
We ordered pizza for dinner (of course) and ate at our house.
Finally #flatmes were organized and we headed to bed early (though I never can sleep the night before a race.)
I debated whether to wear long sleeves and capris but in the end, I did dress correctly…
Race Day:
Sorry to be a broken record about not having a time goal. But my goal for races these days is to FINISH happy (that is not injured and ready to do another.)
If I had to guestimate my time, it would have been between 2:30 and 2:45 (due to all the HILLS). Maybe even 3 hours if things didn’t go well.
Actually, even more important would be to run a smarter and less painful race than my last half marathon Labor Day weekend. Slower the first half so that I could enjoy the second half of the race…
The course:
Starting at the Horseshow Grounds (5514 Cascade Road), go NE into horseshow stable area. Run clockwise around stable area returning to the start line, heading towards exit of horseshow grounds. Exit heading south, up John Brown road, clockwise around John Brown circle, turning left onto western John Brown road, at the junction Old Military Road, turn left, along Old Military road until Newman road, down Newman road to Route 73 south. Cross over at Corner Store to left hand shoulder head south on Route 73. Remain on Route 73 to River road, Out and back on River road, finishing at the regular finish area on the grass of the Horse Show grounds.
NOT FLAT!!
As I mentioned above, only three of us were running the half which started at 8:00 am.
There were about 250 runners in the half marathon which was the most popular of the 3 races.
We left at 6:30 and easily found parking. Those not running would arrive later to cheer us on at the finish line.
It was quite chilly when we arrived and so we waited until the last minute to leave the car.
It didn’t look to be chip timed from the start so I moved up a little but didn’t didn’t want to get too close to the speedy runners. Deb and Barb moved toward the back.
I really couldn’t give you a mile by mile update of the race. But I’ll recount what I do remember.
We left the Horseshow grounds and immediately encountered a huge hill that seemed to go on forever. For me, this was great since I always go out too fast. I walked most of it with an occasional sprint.
I immediately regretted adding that extra shirt. I took it off and tied it around my waist. I also had on DIY arm warmers which I rolled down and gloves that I eventually carried. The weather was absolutely perfect. No humidity, No wind and sunny.
By the 2nd mile, there was a downhill and I was able to pick up the pace as we headed back past the start line.
I remember going through town but most of the race was on a tree-line roads with mountain and river views. It was beautiful!!
What was not beautiful was that there was one hill after another…. (One runner said that there were 22 hills!!)
I followed my plan: walk/run/walk up the hill, sprint down it.
Barbara soon passed me. She was killing it.
There were quite a few water stops (7, I think) and although I wasn’t thirsty, I did drink water at each one.
my favorite
I also ate my Gus as planned: miles 4, 8, and 12.
Around mile 4, a local friend, Gail, caught up to me. We ran together and chatted for about a mile or two. She was struggling with a sore hamstring and I was walking up the hills.
Eventually even with her sore leg, she ran ahead of me (though I could always see her and finished ahead of her.)
Being in the woods for most of the race, there wasn’t a lot of crowd support but those who were watching or volunteering were very enthusiastic and high fiving those who passed them.
the “car wash”
I have to say that nothing hurt the whole race (not even my feet). My legs were never tired. I just took in the scenery and continued up and down the hills. This may have been the first time ever that I didn’t crash and burn (or at least in a very long time.)
Around mile 9 or 10, we hit the turn around.
No difference, the downhills were now uphills and the up hills downhills. And I continued walking when necessary and running fast when I could.
I was able to see those behind me: Deb and two other local runners.
Around mile 13, I caught up to Gail and we dragged each other up the last hill; the steepest one on the course (how cruel!)
Finally we turned into the Horseshow grounds and could see the finish line ahead.
As I approached the finish line, our friends were ringing bells and screaming my name. It was great to have their support. I tried to sprint and look good as I passed them.
Post Race Activities:
I got my medal and some water.
so pretty!
Barb had already finished (She ran a great race,) and we all waited at the finish line to cheer on Deb.
I’m not sure what the post-race refreshments were (I think bagels, fruit). I decided to wait and eat once we got home.
the happy finishers
We checked out the results and both Barb and I won age group awards (gourmet popcorn and a coaster).
I got first and Barb 3rd in different age groups
After we collected out awards, we headed home for lunch,
a long soak in the hot tub
and later out for a celebratory dinner in town.
We ended the day with drinks and s’mores.
Additional Race Reflections:
It was so fun to be out there and soaking up the racing atmosphere. It was even more fun to run a race with friends.
In past years I would have wanted a faster finish time…
I am competitive but I now know that it was much more important enjoy this time with my friends and also not to be in pain.
I felt fine the next day. We walked around Mirror Lake
and visited High Falls Gorge.
Positives:
Part of a 4 day race-cation with friends.
Half marathon, 10k, 5k options.
Well-marked course.
Easy packet pick-up.
Long sleeved tech shirts
Swat included a bag, beer glass and discount coupons.
Enthusiastic volunteers.
Friends cheering you on at the finish line.
Instant race results.
Nice medal provided to all runners.
Adequate number of water stops.
Perfect weather.
Pretty scenery.
Plenty of parking.
4 miles from our VRBO.
Negatives:
HILLS (especially the one at the end).
Most of my friends decided not to race.
No photos.
Would I recommend this race?
Yes. yes. For all the reasons mentioned above.
Final Stats:
consistent walking lol
all winners in my age group are local to me
All in all, I was happy with my results. My expectations have dropped significantly and I ain’t getting any younger. Actually, it was my fastest Half marathon this year (and the most challenging.).
Next Up:
two 5ks
Happy Running! Have you run a fall race yet? If so, how did go? Are you planning to run one? Any race-cations planned? Please share.
My First 5K and More... 