Where has the year gone? Can’t believe it’s July already!!
And now the number of daylight hours is decreasing… So trying to make the most of my available time!
Last Week:
Sunday – Boating Sunday!
this race will have to wait until next year
It was a tough decision to DNS a trail 5k race. But with weather in the 90s after a tough 15k the day before, I decided to join my hubby on the boat.
did not regret it one bit!!
Monday – DAY OFF! I now have every other Monday off from work. I made plans to hike with friends. But the weather didn’t get the memo. I woke up to rain!!
Heidi and I waited and waited and then decided to go for it once the rain stopped. Fingered crossed for a good time and not too much mud.
It turned out to be a lovely day. First a delicious lunch in Stockbridge, MA followed by a hike at Olivia’s Overlook…
a lot of gradual climbing but worth it…
Then we hiked at nearby Steve’s Glen…
this hike was shorter and easier which was a good thing since it was late in the day
We ended to day with the best ice cream at a farm in Lee, MA.
Unfortunately I got home too late to join the group run.
Tuesday – A busy week ahead so I squeezed in a run at lunch…
tried out my new Topos and listened to Matt Wilpers
I chose to use Peloton for my run for the music. But what interested more was of Matt’s Insights:
Do your best with what you got!
Don’t wish for longer legs, stronger core, cooler temps, better training on hills, etc…
Are you intrinsically or extrinsically motivated?
Why do you run? Do you need others or awards/rewards or signs of improvement? Do you just do it for you?
And then I went for a short walk after work
While I was walking, a friend called and we went for a longer walk together on the rail trail after dinner.
Wednesday – A busy evening so I had to run before work…
what’s with the hair? New Topos #2. Check.
Again, I was running solo so I chose another Matt Wilpers Peloton run. And I got more advice from Matt:
Embrace the weather you have.
Go outside! Make adjustments for the weather rather than excuses.
It’s easier for shorter runners to stay cool.
Something to do with air flow and energy expelled.
Lyrics to “Hung Up” by Madonna
Time goes by so slowly for those who wait No time to hesitate Those who run seem to have all the fun
I left work early to go the Van Gogh exhibit. It was my third time (in Montreal, NYC and now Schenectady). Each time I saw it with different friends and each was different show. This visit was with my tennis friends.
Afterward, we went out to dinner to celebrate one friend’s BIG birthday.
Thursday – I had to squeeze in a run after work and before our weekly trail run walk.
one loop at UAlbany
My legs weren’t happy with three days in a row of running (but I had no choice since I skipped my run Sunday and Monday.)
always a fun time on the trails and ice cream after, of course.
Friday – Rest Day. After work, a relaxing evening with the mah jongg ladies,
Saturday – Long Run Saturday. No long races on my schedule until September 3 so I was free to just run and brunch with my friends.
We woke up to rain and my friends decided to instead to have brunch rather than run.
And yes, I was so tempted to join them….
But the rain stopped and I decided to do my LONG run.
the Bad: 97% humidity and I hate running alone! The Good: Lots of shade and bird sculptures and brunch with a friend after.
And then in the evening, the hubby and I went out to dinner with a boating friend.
Sunday – Boating Sunday!
The weather looks good and we invited my stepson, his wife and their two friends along with us.
This Coming Week on the Run–
Monday – Race – Firecracker 4
Tuesday – rest day, Lake George Hike-a-thon
Wednesday – train to NYC, Al Goldstein 5k (in Brooklyn)
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? Any in-person races run or planned? Any fun plans for July 4th? Please share.
time to join up with Coco & Deborah
for their ultimate coffee date.
1. Over coffee…
I’d tell you that I’ve run 18 in-person races so far this year (I think I need to buy the mug above)… and I enjoyed each one!!
FRW – 2022
2.Over coffee…
I’d tell you that the most that I ever raced in one year was in 2016 and that was 41 races.
And NO, I don’t plan to beat that this year.
3.Over coffee/wine…
I’d tell you that I registered for TWO races in the same weekend.
First I signed up for a (fun) Trail 5k. Then a 15k got scheduled the day before (Saturday).
hot and hilly!!!
My Hubby and I try to reserve Sunday in the summer for boating. Otherwise, it would not have been an issue to run both races. (I have in the past run two races in the same weekend.)
needed relaxation and reading time (in the shade)
4.Over coffee…
I’d tell you that it’s a dilemma when only one brand of shoes that doesn’t hurt your feet doesn’t come in pretty colors (FOMO on those Brooks shoes.)
I wear TopoPhantoms for half marathons and TopoCyclones for 5ks. I also wear the Magnifly or Ultrafly for training/easy runs.
White for both the Phantoms and the Cyclones!!!
Say “hello” to my new Cyclones and Phantoms!!
5.Over coffee…
I’d tell you that I didn’t realize how much I missed NYC until my recent work trip. Central Park was amazing to run in (as you already know from Cari‘s FB/IG pics)…
I’m looking forward to next Wednesday and Thursday when I’ll get to do more exploring/running there. (Since I am no longer a regular trainer in NYC, this may be my last work visit. Sigh).
I’ve considered some options besides Central Park for Wednesday:
The race begins at SUNY Adirondack, works its way to the Warren County Bike path and ends at Battle Field Park in Lake George. Rolling course with a long down hill finish.
This is the third year for this 15k race. It replaced one of my favorite races – Adirondack Distance Run (10 miler). That was the one that started in Lake George Village and ended in a park on the lake next to the marina where we keep our boat.
2017
2016
2014
I was very disappointed that they cancelled this race. (After 40 years, they decided that it was dangerous to run on the road.)
My friend Sue and I have had many running adventures together:
Paris 8K 2017
Since Sue was the organizer of this new race, I felt that I should at least run it the first year. It was hard especially the first 5k but I actually enjoyed it so I signed up again in 2018 and 2019.
Then the Pandemic came and the race was cancelled in 2020 and 2021.
It was revived this year and of course, I couldn’t resist signing up.
Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:
My weekend long run preparation for this race wasn’t great (5k, 7 miles, 5k +5ish more) but I felt somewhat prepared to give it my best shot. I like the 15k distance. It’s always when I am running a half marathon where I wish it were over.
Due to the weather and work, I front loaded my short weekday (3 mile) runs which gave me two rest days in a row before the race.
The biggest challenge would be those hills. I knew that it was hilly. And we all know that I do not train on hills. I expected that there would be walking on those hills. And I am totally ok with walking during races.
from my Garmin
The weather was quite comfortable all week but then it started heating up toward the end of the week. Just in time for this race!! 90 degree temps predicted…
I haven’t run very many 15ks. My surprise PR was from the Stockade-athon in 2018 (1:30:15). I ran today’s race in 2018 and 2019 and finished at 1:33:54 and 1:32:38 respectively. But I recently finished at FLAT 10 miler at 1:43:56 so I was not expecting much from this HILLY course. And I had no goals besides having fun and finishing unhurt.
There were supposed to be 4 water stops along the route: one at mile 2 (which served runners on the way in and out) and then along the bike path at approximately miles 4.2, 6.2 and 8. I would be stopping at each one and hoped that this would be enough (since I never carry my own water.)
So what to wear? The usual. Tank and skirt.
I hesitated on the compression socks due to the heat but because of the hills, I kept them on.
Race Day:
The race started at 7:30 am. (Hooray for finally an early start!) I got up at 5 am and had oatmeal/coffee and then left my house around 5:45 am since I had over an hour drive.
The race began at a community college so there were real bathrooms and comfortable places to hang out before the race.
None of my close running friends were running the race but I was surprised at how many runners I did know. I hung out with them until the race began.
not a fan of white shirts but at least it was gender-specific and tech fabric.
I asked my friend, the RD, about bag check. She replied that there was none. I was planning like last time to bring a towel, dry shirt and flip flops to change into after the race. Boo!
Everyone was looking around to find someone who was driving to start to give a bag to. I wound up giving mine to the guy in charge of the finish line timing.
We eventually all headed to the start. Again, it was just a line in the parking lot. No chip timing for this race.
I lined up with some friends but not as close to the start as I should have.
So here’s how the race went: (The course photos are mostly courtesy D. Yeaton 2019)
Miles 1-3:
I knew what the course was like. As I mentioned, I expected hills. I mean, it’s the Adirondacks so it is hilly everywhere. We left the college and ran on a main road for a while. And it was warm out already. I knew that it wasn’t going to be a good day when I had to walk during the FIRST mile!
Soon we turned into a neighborhood. One of the volunteers we passed said “Enjoy the roller coaster!” Yup, huge hills…up and down. Just past the water stop at mile 2.5, you turned around and repeated those crazy hills.
I started slowly and tried to run up them. After the first hill, I realized that that was a mistake, I just ran/walked up them. No sense killing my legs. I ran most of the race around the same runners. Playing leap frog with them. They ran slowly and passed me on the hills and I got closer to them on the downhill and sometimes even passed them.
Miles 4-6:
After the first 5K, we headed toward the bike path. The steep hills disappeared but it was a steady incline. I kept hoping for a downhill but it never happened (until mile 7). At least, most of the path was shady. And with the temps rising, that was a good thing!!
I stopped and walked at each of the 4 water stops. I took a GU at the 2nd and 4th one.
The hills on miles 1-3, definitely tired me out. My plan changed from just walking at the water stops to walking up the hills to finally just walking whenever my legs were too tired to run. That seemed to be very often. Still I was keeping up with the same runners. Perhaps I was running fast when I was actually running. The steepest hill was between miles 5 and 6 (see pace below). Ugh!
Miles 7-9.3 –
The rest of the race was on the bike path and the part of the path that went downhill right into Lake George Village (opposite the lake). Finally running downhill!! Though, it seemed too little, too late to make up for the slow mile 6.
After my 2nd GU, I got a second wind and tried pick up the pace and eventually sprint to the finish.
The path to the finish was on grass – soft but so difficult to run fast on.
I crossed at 1:36:xx and I was happy to be done!!
As you crossed, they asked your age and then handed you an age group award if you won.
2nd for me… recycling the medals from the canceled 2020 race.
Post Race Activities:
great view of the lake from the finish line
Refreshments included watermelon, bananas, home made cookies and pastries. All the baked goods were individually wrapped.
I headed right for the watermelon. No ice cream this year 😦
I got my bag (which had a towel and flip flops) and headed with the other runners to soak my feet in the lake.
There wasn’t much time to relax in the water as I spotted two buses waiting to take runners back to the start. I ran to the bus as I remembered that the last time, there was quite a wait until the next bus (and by now it was very warm out!!)
In past years, I stayed and visited friends in Lake George or went on our boat. This year, I immediately drove home.
Back to the race:
They say “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” And I was not sore at all the next day and back to running again on Monday. So all is good.
Additional Race Reflections:
I have to say that I’ve gotten spoiled with all the extras, my local race organization provides for its racers. So I felt a little let down but with only 118 runners, it was a small race and not an expensive one to enter.
And those hills… with the heat, I was in no shape to give 100% to this race. I was perfectly happy to just walk when it felt good to… And besides mile 6, I was running at a decent pace because by walking a lot, when I was running, I was running fast!
I think the last sentence of the first paragraph explains why I race so much!!
The Good:
Easy organized packet pick-up.
Lots of parking
Real Bathrooms at the start.
Early start time
Scenic course – especially the bike path (with running water views and shade)
Gender specific tech shirt
4 water stops
Decent selection of post race food – bananas, watermelon, home-made baked goods
Ended at the Lake
Photographer at the finish line
Shuttle back to the start
The Bad:
Not chip-timed
No port-a-potties along the course or at the finish
The hilly looped miles 2-4
Little crowd support
No Nuun or Gatorade at water stops
No bag check
No music and national anthem at the start
Recycled medals for age group awards (mug or car magnet in previous years)
No ice cream (as in previous years)
Long drive (for me)
Would I recommend this race?
Yes, if you live nearby. It was a nice small race with challenging hills.
I may run it again if I plan some nearby post-race activities. Otherwise, I may chose a closer race.
Final Stats:
Splits:
Next Up:
7/4/22
and a few more 5ks this summer before the half marathons start in the Fall.
Happy Running! Any exciting plans for the summer? Have you run a lot of 15ks? How do you feel about hilly races? How far do you usually drive for a race? Please share.
We started out with fall-like weather and then as the week progressed, the temps started rising.
Just in time for my 15k race..
Last Week:
Sunday – Boating Sunday! Chilly and windy but always better than staying home.
picture perfect day in the bay. lots of reading and relaxing accomplished!!
Monday – Juneteenth celebrated so a day off from work.
I could get used to this… Doing things on my own schedule!! FOMO on you non-working runners!!
Got my weeding, trimming bushes, laundry, grocery shopping done.. all in this cool fall-like morning.
I met a friend for a walk in the afternoon (and the temps had warmed up significantly)
Then in the evening, a group was running in the Crossings so I joined them followed by a Trader Joe’s stop.
Tuesday – Back to reality. With rain in the forecast, I squeezed in a run before work.
the cool temp was overshadowed by the humidity but glad that I got it done early.
It rained on and off in the afternoon but my friend was still game for 5 mile walk after work… and we didn’t get too wet.
Wednesday – Again rain in the forecast. So I decided to play it by ear on whether to run or not. There was a SOAR (Sisterhood Of Athletes & Runners) run scheduled after work at UAlbany. It’s always nice to have options.
It was a small group but it was fun to chat and not to run alone…
Afterwards, I met my BFF for a walk around the mall.
Thursday – Rest day finally! And rain on and off all day.
After work, I met my friends for the ARE weekly trail run walk. As usual, we had a good time.
There was yoga before (but I didn’t join)
Friday – Rest Day #2. Getting ready for the race the next day.
bib for Sunday’s race (just in case)
And the evening with the mah jongg ladies.
Saturday – Race Day – Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k.
A very early morning wake-up since I had to leave by 5:45am to get to the race. I’d like to report that I was prepared for those hills… but I wasn’t. Still I enjoyed the last two miles and the post-race dip in the lake especially since the summer HEAT and HUMIDITY had returned.
medal recycled from 2020 for my age group award
Sunday – Race Day and/or Boating Sunday!
Before Saturday’s race was announced, I had signed up for a fun trail 5k (see bib above). After having run a HILLY 15k the day before and temps in the 90s today… I decided I’d rather be floating in the lake!!
This Coming Week on the Run–
Monday – DAY OFF – hiking with friends, run
Tuesday –run
Wednesday – rest day, Van Gogh exhibit, dinner out with tennis friends
Thursday – run, ARE trail run walk
Friday – rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – Long Run
Sunday – rest day, boating
This Coming Week on the Blog –
Tuesday – Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k Race Recap
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? Any in-person races run or planned? Any fun plans for the summer? Please share.
It’s that time again. Time to get things off my chest with Marcia’s Runfessions at Marcia’s Healthy Slice…
1. I runfess…
I skipped two weekends of racing. And yes, it felt weird. I had major FOMO when friends posted their pics on IG and FB. And I missed those AG award possibilities.
friends at the OK 5k
2. I runfess…
One of the main reasons I skipped a race was to run with my friends. I know many runners do run alone but it’s so easy to let those friend connections slip away when we get busy.
9 of us gathered for brunch… so fun!
3. I runfess…
I do miss the routine of getting up early and heading to the gym. Not enough to join and pay $$. Instead, I planned (at least in the summer) to get up and go for a run or walk. I’ve been semi successful.
4.I Runfess…
I’m only a fan of Peloton for running outdoors with music. So when they offered 3 months for the price of one, I did sign up. I ignore the drills and references to the Thread and just listen to the music while I run.
4.I Runfess…
I’ve been getting pressured by friends to go biking…
My bike is old and needs a tune-up (or maybe I need a new bike). My bike rack is a pain to put on my car and my neighborhood is boring.
Yada Yada.. so many excuses.
my lonely “Big Red”
Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? Please share!
This race was not on my radar. I was planning a long run and taking a break from racing.
Then my friend begged me to do it with her. How could I say No?
I said that I would sign up if she ran 5 more miles after the race with me… (I wanted to be prepared for my 15k race the following weekend.)
This was not the first time I had run this race. I ran it in 2010!!
they gave out free ice cream that year,
Yes, 12 years ago! I ran with Amanda, a running friend at that time:
This is the race where I met new running BFF Mary. We ran many races together after that. When she eventually moved to Palm Springs, I visited her twice.
Kelly and Mary (on the right)
Then I ran it again in 2016. I knew a lot of runners by then. And it was even more fun.
here with my friend Tom
and my age group competition, Carolyn
My time back in 2010 was 29:40 but improved to 28:47 in 2016. Both years, I was 2nd in my age group (won a cap, then gloves).
2022? Anything could happen… no expectations.
Pre-Race Preparations and Activities:
I had a tiring two days working in NYC before the race. And I returned home very late the night before.
At least I did get in a few short runs during the week.
Race Day:
Below is the course map and elevation:
elevation according my Garmin is below…
I was really relaxed about this race. I was soooo tired and so I had no real goals besides enjoying myself. And I also needed to save energy to run 5 more miles after the race!!
I got to the race early.. I never looked at the weather so I was surprised how windy and chilly it was. I got my bib and shirt and sat in my car to stay warm (very odd since it was 91 degrees the day before when I was in NYC).
cotton shirt but also 4 free tickets to a minor league baseball game
Eventually I did get out to hang out with friends.
Heidi (who talked me into this race) finally arrived.
There were even real restrooms
She persuaded me to do one mile before the race so we would only have to run 4 more after. It was more of a walk but still we got it done.
This race began and ended at the home of the Valley Cats, a local baseball team that plays at Joe Bruno Stadium in Troy, NY, on the campus of Hudson Valley Community College.
The finishers are captured on the large stadium screen
Reluctantly I left my jacket in Heidi’s car since I had DIY arm warmers on. Still I was COLD!!
There was no chip timing at the start line so I started pretty close to the front. Heidi moved farther back.
and took this pic of me
Mile 1:
The race began in the parking lot and then we ran around the outside of the stadium before heading into the neighborhoods.
this was in 2016
As soon as I started running I was no longer cold. I even immediately rolled down my arm warmers. And the wind was not as bad as it was at the stadium.
But I was dragging… I so wanted to be back in my bed catching up with my sleep. I was running but I couldn’t catch my breath and felt to need to walk.
I had started with my friend Carolyn (my age group rival) but she quickly got ahead and kept gaining on me as the race went on.
Mile 2:
Finally there was a water stop around mile 1.5 so I walked a bit. The neighborhoods were rolling hills but nothing too bad until one steep one during the second mile. I tried to run up it but the legs just weren’t having it. So I ran/walked it.
We repeated most of the course afterwards so here are some pics from the neighborhoods
Carolyn was still way ahead but I also knew that she was fast and if I could see her in the distance, my pace wasn’t that bad. (I don’t look at my Garmin usually until the race is over.)
Mile 3-3.1:
A few more walks, I think. And then there was a welcome downhill during mile 3.
We finished the race inside the stadium and I gave it everything (which wasn’t much at this point).
I didn’t expect a PR however I really wanted to finish under 29 minutes.
And I did – 28:43 (gun time)!! Course PR!!!
Post Race Activities:
Everyone whom I talked to before the race seemed to have a good race. Some finished ahead of me and some after.
I waited for Heidi to finish (and she did well, too.)
the happy runners with the Valley Cats mascot
We headed for the food while waiting for the age group awards to be announced. There was a decent spread: popcorn, bagels, cookies, bananas, coffee, water. I had a hot dog, coffee and cookie.
And I did win one – 2nd in my age group.
Carolyn in (orange) won a 1st)
yup, a bat.. hey, it was the “home run 5k”
We planned to run more miles after the race. Did we want to???
Nope!!
I insisted and Heidi couldn’t say No so we went back to her car to get my jacket (I was shivering…)
We sorta did intervals but mostly ran until we didn’t feel like it. We started in the stadium/college parking lots and then decided that it would be more scenic to run in the same neighborhoods as during the race.
We got it done!!! And immediately headed to Panera’s for our reward.
Additional Race Reflections:
When I dragged myself out of bed that morning, I was not feeling good about running this race.
As usually happens, I connected with some awesome people, ran a decent race and don’t regret it one bit.
Positives:
Ample parking.
Well marked course.
Lots of familiar faces.
4 free tickets to a game as swag
Interesting course (through the neighborhoods and finish in a baseball stadium)
Friendly and abundant number of volunteers.
Free photos
Interesting 5 year age group awards (a bat)
Decent post-race food
Negatives:
Cotton shirt
Gun time (not chip timed)
Hills (but don’t most races)
Windy
Would I recommend this race?
Yes. Yes. It’s a nice local race. And very well organized. Maybe someone will twist my arm to run it again next year.
Final Stats:
Splits:
5 walks!!
according to my Garmin
Next Up:
Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k
June 25, 2022
Happy Running! How was your weekend? Did you race? If so, how did it go? How did you celebrate Father’s Day? Please share.
It’s Tuesday so don’t forget to link up with these wonderful ladies: Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).
This week was rather hectic and it included a quick trip NYC for work.
I am always excited when I get to visit NYC but I wish it were for pleasure.
Last Week:
Sunday – Boating Sunday! And grateful that the rain in the forecast never materialized.
my favorite place to read and relax!!
Monday – I had the day off from work. The original plan was to meet a college friend in NYC. She had to cancel.
Plan B – meet a tennis friend to go hiking in the Adirondacks. She had to cancel.
Plan C – meet a running friend to go hiking in Lenox, MA. She did not cancel and we had a lovely time.
First we hiked in Pleasant Valley Nature Sanctuary.
Then after lunch, we went to Kennedy Park.
When I got home, I met two friends for a walk on the rail trail (with wine and snacks after).
Got my steps in today!!!
Tuesday – After two days off from running, I knew I needed to get out there (in order to get my 4 days in) so I squeezed in a short one before work.
another Broadway run 🙂
After work, again I walked on the rail trail (but a different section) with friends.
Wednesday – A busy work day and a dentist appt.
But Wednesday evenings there are several scheduled group runs. Tonight there was an ice cream run. You know I couldn’t resist that.
Not wanting to run late and drive far, I met up with a friend to run closer to home … and have ice cream.
and we twinned in SS skirts
Thursday – First day traveling to NYC for work since January 2020. I was subbing for another trainer. After taking Amtrak to Manhattan, I checked into my hotel, had lunch and then took the subway to Queens. Eventually I returned to Manhattan.
I couldn’t let a day in NYC go by without a run in Central Park.
loved every minute there!!
Unfortunately it is hard to coordinate a meet-up with my NYC buds. I didn’t see Elizabeth but Cari and I did have a late dinner together.
Friday – Another trip from Manhattan to Queens to work and back and then Amtrak home that night. LONG DAY!! And a hot one… 90 degrees!!! (Glad I was minimally outside.)
time to kill before my evening train… so why not?
Saturday – Race Day – Valley Cats Father’s Day Home Run 5k – I was NOT planning to run a race today but a running friend asked me to… that’s what friends are for…
It was fun!! And talk about weather whiplash… it was windy and in the 50s!!
I felt like I was sleep walking and was surprised to come in 2nd in my age group
and afterward, I talked her into accompanying me on 5 more miles (followed my brunch) and then errands.
Brrrr…. but we warmed up as we re-traced the race route
Sunday – Supposed to be sunny and warmer so the plans are to spend Father’s Day on the boat.
pic from last FD
This Coming Week on the Run–
Monday – DAY OFF (Juneteenth) – run
Tuesday –run
Wednesday – rest day
Thursday – ARE trail run
Friday – rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k
Sunday – rest day, boating
This Coming Week on the Blog –
Tuesday – Valley Cats Father’s Day Home Run 5k Race Recap
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? Any in-person races run or planned? What is your favorite post run treat? How are you celebrating Father’s Day? Please share.
In other words, you registered for the race, maybe even picked up your bib, but chose to not to actually cross the start line.
If you race often enough, eventually you may choose to DNS a race. Maybe you already have.
In fact, I was really considering one recently. And I have one future race that I may skip.
Here are a few reasons why you may opt to DNS:
1.Weather
Some runners will race in any weather conditions.
But safety should always be a concern whether it be because of ice or extreme heat.
2.Injury/Sickness
It obviously depends on the seriousness of the injury but it may require you to skip the race.
broken foot = no race
Sometimes, it also may be because the injury will get worse if you do race. (Unfortunately runners are not always good listening to their body.)
Then there’s sickness. That also depends on the nature of the illness. They say above the neck is ok but below is nay.
3. Schedules/Commitments
Family or work commitments can force to you miss a race. Life happens.
Also flight cancelations or travel plans can interfere. (I’ve learned the hard way to never schedule my arrival the day before the race.)
4.Training Plan/Mileage Requirements
Your training calls for a long run and you signed up for a short race. You may decide, if it’s an important race that you are training for, to skip the race.
Or you should be tapering and this race is challenging. Again, it may be in your best interests to DNS this race.
5. Lack of Mojo
For whatever reason, you just don’t feel like it.
Racing should be fun!
It should never be a “have to” but always a “want to.”
or at least FUN afterward.
Once you’ve made the tough decision to DNS your race, it’s entirely normal to go through a wide range of emotions from relief, to anger, to regret. Don’t let anyone kid you. FOMO is real!!!
But hopefully those situations will be few and and you will run many races…
Happy Running! Have you ever DNSed a race? What reason influenced your decision? Please share.
This is the only race that I’ve run every year! This was my 15th time!!!!! (In 2020, it went virtual so actually my 14th in-person FRW race.)
It is always held the Saturday after Memorial Day but due to COVID, the race was moved to September last year. This year, it has retuned 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 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 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 has continued into this year, as well.
Believe it not, I chose to skip my high school reunion (also scheduled for today) in order to run 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 race with lots of women.
And this was also my seventh Freihofer Training Challenge.
did my green hat stand out much in 2018?!
Training is a loose term. I kinda just showed up on most Monday runs. But each Monday seemed to follow either a half marathon or a long run. As a result, although I registered for the Advanced group, I never participated in any of their speed drills. Instead I usually ran with the Intermediate group.
But I was excited to be part of it and support all the runners who would be finishing their FIRST 5k. And see my “current and past FTC” buddies who would hopefully PR.
In past years, the day before I walked to Empire State Plaza concourse at lunch to go to the expo and pick up my race packet. They used to have a really big expo with vendors and health-related exhibits. But the past few years, they have held it at a local college.
race swag = cookies, break and a shirt
As I did last year, I signed up to volunteer on Friday evening at packet pick-up and then skipped playing mah jongg in favor of a pizza dinner and time to organize my #flatme.
Race Day:
I hate parking garages and traffic so I parked on the street and walked to the start. I used to do this every year. However, with the new(er) course, it was an even longer hike. Like almost 2 miles!
It was still strange to run down Madison Avenue and not see the race banners and not see the giant poster on the bridge.
pics from 6 years ago…
Due to construction, they changed the course seven years ago.
They say that this course is faster…less congested and has a less steep hill at the start and finish.
course map
elevation according to my Garmin
I did run the new course the past seven years and I liked it better than the original..
heading downhill to the finish line
The start was near a park across from the Capitol Building. I wore a jacket because I thought it would be cool out. Nope. Bright sunshine and warming up quickly.
Soon the start line as in sight.
I ran past it and entered the City Hall park in search of the Training Challenge tent. I left my jacket there. In past years, there was water and lots of snacks. Not this year.
oops. ripped my bib
I was quite early so I continued to walk around until more runners arrived. I chatted with many of my running friends and took quite a few pics.
my tennis friend, Mary Pat (responsible for starting me on my running journey. Do you recognize her from the 2008 pic?
my “sole sister” Heidi
training challenge friends
Catching up with everyone made the time go by quickly and soon it was time to line up for our Training Challenge photo.
Though, I didn’t get much out of the training itself, I was happy to be part of this amazing group of women.
I was scheduled to start in corral 3 so I headed that way and bumped into a few friends there too. While I was waiting, I ate a Honey Stinger waffle (with no water … blech)
in my corral
Mile 1:
It is usually very crowded during the first mile but this year were fewer runners than in previous years (about 2500 vs 3500). I never really had to weave and had plenty of space to run comfortably.
The race began with a long steep uphill. It’s a good thing since it kept you at a slower pace.
But I did run the whole uphill… it was slow but I did not have to walk.
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 and even I could run them without walking.
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.
I took this pic after the race a few years ago
Mile 2:
There was a water stop around mile 1.25. It was very sunny and I was getting warm so I did stop and walk.
More rolling hills during this mile as you ran around the park circling the lake. Only one of the hills was steep but it was very short.
I tried to pick up the pace for the second mile. I told myself that I would not walk until the next water stop.
Mile 3-3.1:
That was around mile 2.5. At this point, I was starting to get very warm so I stopped again for a drink and walked longer than before.
Finally we left the park and headed toward the street we started on.
It was a long downhill and I had to remember not to start sprinting too soon. I’ve made that mistake in past years.
Eventually I see the 3 mile sign and I started to run as fast as I could while posing for the photographers and running though the finish line.
I did see that the timing clock read 28:XX…. No course PR for this girl today!
Post Race Activities:
I knew with two walks and zero speed work, I couldn’t come close to a PR (and I was not expecting one). It was a decent time (even if it was slower than all my Freihofer 5ks since 2016) and I was happy!!
I grabbed some snacks (apple sauce, bar, banana). I was hoping as in past years to snag some chocolate milk and maybe a bagel. Nope!!
Then I went back to the finish line to cheer in some friends.
with racing friends Linda and Carolyn
I ran into even more runners again that I knew. Every where I turned, there was someone familiar – from a job, tennis, races, etc. That’s what’s great about running a popular local race.
with Heidi again and “sole sister” Deb
The first time runners were so excited. That put a smile on my face. I remembered why I love this race and it was never because of my awesome finish times.
Before we left, we checked out our finish times. No award for any of us but a good effort by all.
We were hungry and so we didn’t stay around for the awards. There were, however, some well-known runners in the field. (In past years, Sara Hall and Joan Samuelson ran this race).
Allie Ostrander (on right) won the race and Allie Kieffer came in 2nd. Allie O was recently interviewed on the Ali on the Run podcast.
And last but not least, this lady at age 92!!!
with her daughter and granddaughter – so sweet!!
I walked back (uphill) to my car and then met Heidi and Deb at the diner for brunch.
Additional Race Reflections:
Many runners were excited about their PRs. I may not have run my fastest time but I still enjoyed myself.
You get what you put in. I did not do all the speed workouts so I can’t be disappointed. I also recently ran a half marathon and a 10 mile race and I am no spring chicken. My time may not have been as fast as 2018 (a course PR of 27:37) but it was faster than the previous two 5ks that I’ve run in 2022.
So I was very pleased with that.
And I always enjoy running through Washington Park too.
from IG
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)
All women – all ages, all paces…
Many free photo stations
Negatives:
Uphill first mile.
Uneven pavement in the park
Sunny and warm
No chocolate milk or bagels post-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:
Splits:
Negative splits!!!! Woo Hoo!
I have a 15k is a few weeks and I thought I might run a few more miles so today could also count as a long run.
And I would have if I hadn’t had the brunch option. No will power!
So FRW #15 is in the books!
The tradition is still alive! It was again a great local race with many women running it. Can’t wait to run it again next year.
Next Up:
Adirondack Race to the Lakes 15k
June 25, 2022
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? Please share.
It’s Tuesday so don’t forget to link up with these wonderful ladies: Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).
A slow week at work, gym membership ended and I also decided against running any races this past weekend.
Even though my evenings were all booked, I still considered this week “Down time.”
Unexpectedly, my down time included some pain and almost a cut back on the running.
Last Week:
Sunday – I started the day with a short run since I went to brunch after Saturday’s 5k race instead of running more miles.
great running weather and yes, that’s my shirt from the race the day before (check out the cardinal in the birdbath)
Then the hubby and I (and one of our friends) went up to the lake.
Monday – No more gym time. Instead, I went for a short run before work since I had plans during lunch and after work
of course I stopped to take a pic every time I saw a peony
And then one final birthday dinner that evening with my BFF.
Tuesday – I had planned to walk in the am but got lazy. However, I did drag myself out for a another short run at lunch.
very humid but at least a nice breeze for this combo road/trail run
And then I had plans to meet friends after work for a walk on the rail trail. The walk got rained out so I got my nails done instead.
Wednesday – A planned rest day due to a hair appointment after work.
But it was more than planned as the night before, I woke up with pain in my right shin. Of course, I freaked and spent a sleepless night.
I immediately called my chiro but she had no appointments until Friday afternoon.
Was it legs cramps from dehydration, shin splints, tibial stress reaction or fracture???
To be safe and not run or walk until I knew if it were serious, I got an appointment with an ortho for the next morning.
In the meantime:
ibuprofen, ice and compression sleeve
and the pain disappeared!!!
Thursday – In fact, it didn’t bother me at all last night. So I cancelled my ortho appointment for this morning.
Rain on and off all day had me postpone my run (to test my shin) until after work.
Listened to music from one of my favorite shows and NO PAIN!!
And then I went to the weekly trail run. I walked with my friends.
accidentally added an extra mile to our 3m. walk so we rewarded ourselves with a big dinner
Friday – Still feeling good so I also cancelled my chiro appointment. A pretty low key evening with some weeding and finally planted my tomato plants.
Saturday – Long Run Saturday.
I was tentatively scheduled to run a 5k with the STEM group (that I had volunteered with.) But the program petered out and most of the participants were walking (not running so instead I chose to join my friends for a 7 mile long run followed by brunch.
intervals and the company helped make this run feel easy. 9 of us were at brunch (only missing one “sole sister”!!)
Sunday – Boating Sunday.
The plan was for relaxing and reading on the lake.
The forecast called for rain… NOPE!! Beautiful day!
This Coming Week on the Run–
Monday – DAY OFF – hiking with a friend.
Tuesday –run
Wednesday –run
Thursday – train to NYC, run in CP
Friday – rest day, work in NYC, train home
Saturday – Long Run Valley Cats Father’s Day 5k (+ 5 miles)
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? Any in-person races run or planned? Ever have pain just mysteriously disappear? When you do have pain, do you immediately see a professional or do you do self-care? Please share.
My First 5K and More... 