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Publix Florida Half Marathon Race Recap

FEBRUARY 13, 2022 

It seems like I’ve been planning this race forever (since February 2019, I believe).

the theme was “strawberry” that year and it RAINED!!

So this year, I did run the Publix Florida Half Marathon as my 55th Half Marathon for these reasons:

  • A warmer weather race-cation opportunity.
  • I had a enough frequent flier miles for a free flight.
  • I had enough points for the night before in a hotel.
  • It was advertised as a scenic course with ocean views.
  • I had run this race before in the POURING RAIN. I wanted a re-do.
  • I had four friends that lived nearby (for the winter.)
  • When I originally planned to run it in 2020, my SIL & niece lived here (and I would stay with them).
  • I had gotten BOTH of my COVID vaccines and the booster so I felt safe (even in Florida).

Half Marathon Training:

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan.  I ran my last half marathon three weeks prior, a cold hilly one, in NYC.

As with all my half marathon training, I did not really care about my week day runs. They were usually 3 easy miles.

However, I do try to do longer runs on the weekend. I did manage ALL year to run 8-10 miles every weekend.  But with the change in my NYC half marathons, I had run one three weeks earlier.  So I just recovered and then tapered.

Adjustment from freezing temps to humid Florida temps would most likely be my biggest issue.

Though I did feel somewhat prepared to run 13.1 miles, my goal for this half marathon was still to just finish and to ENJOY RUNNING A RACE with warm temps and ocean views!!!

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

Although the half marathon was scheduled for Sunday morning, I arrived (with no flight drama) in West Palm Beach on Thursday afternoon. I rented a car there and drove Delray Beach where I spent the next two days staying with a friend.

I got to hang out with several friends while visiting the beaches, gardens, bird/turtle/fish sanctuaries and outdoor restaurants. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there.

On Saturday afternoon, I left Delray and headed up to Palm Bay (3 hours away). I stopped at a favorite garden in Vero Beach on the way.

gardens, dinosaurs, fast cars and post ice cream treat

After checking into my hotel, I headed to the expo in Melbourne to pick up my race packet and figure out the parking logistics for the next morning. Th expo was quite small but you could buy essentials and pick up freebies.  This year, you did not get a race shirt unless you paid extra.  They were long sleeves and gender-specific but still I did not need another shirt.

pretty clear view from the expo (that I would not see on race day.)

It was still early so I stopped on my way back to the hotel and visited a nearby nature preserve.

For dinner, I ate my usual pre-race pizza.

And I headed back to my hotel in time to organize my usual race outfit (tank, skirt, cap) and hit the sack earlyish.

purple is my favorite color… so why not be match matchy?

There’s always a chance for RAIN in Florida.  Fingers crossed that it would not happen until after my race if at all (although the forecast indicated otherwise.)

Race Day:

I brought my oatmeal and coffee from home with me and got up around 4:00 am to get ready and have breakfast in my hotel room.

I left early to make sure I got parking close to race start/finish area. (There was a parking garage but it was quite a hike).

And yes, it was raining.  I did find a spot in a nearby lot and stayed in my car for awhile to stay dry.

Eventually I did venture out to use the rest rooms.  There were multiple canopies to wait under

in addition to inside the building where the expo was. Here there was also bag check.  I did check my Oofos, a jacket and umbrella for after the race.

The marathon started at 6:30. am, then the half marathon at 6:40 followed by the 5k and 10k at 7:00 am.

warm, humid but WET!

We were soon told to line up with the pacers.  I reluctantly took off my rain poncho and throw-away.  It had been pouring but now it was just a welcome drizzle.

I started with the 2:15 pacer but knew that I would move up and then back down (And I was right.)

Elevation:

mostly flat except for those two BIG causeway bridges

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

My plan, as usual, was to stop and walk briefly at EVERY water stop (so I wouldn’t get dehydrated) and to stop and walk longer to eat a GU around every 4 miles.  I planned to walk whenever necessary and NOT RACE it. I was obviously not acclimated to the weather.

This map shows the water views from the course:
Credit for many of the pics below goes to Florida Today for their amazing photo spread of the race.
Miles 1-4:

We started through the green arch and headed North along the old U.S. Highway 1.

The water was on our right and we even had a dolphin pacing us for a while.

As I mentioned I started with the 2:15 pacer but quickly moved up and ran with the 2:10 pacer most of the race.

It rained the whole race but it didn’t rain hard until the end.  Just a constant drizzle that actually felt great… cooled off that heat and humidity. (I was secretly hoping that the sun would not come out until the race was over.)

I ran with my usual comfortable early race pace – IOW positive splits…

There were water and Gatorade at every mile and I stopped at each one for a drink. Most of the stops also had tangerines. (How do you run and peel them at the same time?)  Some even had pickle juice.  They also gave out CliffShot gels on the bridges.

Miles 4-6:

Around mile 4, I took my first Gu and then at mile 5.5 we hit the first causeway (Eau Gallie Causeway) and DAMN, in addition to being long and steep, the wind picked up and we were running into the wind (of course).  I ran and walked. I wanted to save my legs for the rest of the race. I was looking forward to passing the guy playing the baby grand as in all the past race photos.

again, NO PIANO due to the inclement weather

Miles 6-10:

Yes I tried to look happy for the photographer but we were running UP over that bridge.

Going down was fun, though.

For awhile, we ran by some crazy, gorgeous homes that were right along the water. I was surprised at how many spectators were cheering along the course, even in the rain.

I continued to slow down as the miles wore on but I only walked at the water stops.  I ate my second GU around mile 8.

Miles 10-13.17:

I was slowly losing the 2:10 pacer, then the 2:15 one but still held on to not being passed by the 2:20 pacer.

In spite of the weather, there was a lot of music along the course – either digital music played through speakers, or drive-by tunes from motorcycles as well as many live musicians playing under canopies.

I admit that at this point, it was getting hard.  Nothing hurt but I was losing steam.  I kept pace with a woman doing intervals for a while. I got ahead when she walked and then she passed me when she ran. We kept cheering each other on.

I took one last gel around mile 12 – a honey stinger… blech!!

Then at mile 12.5 (how cruel), we hit the 2nd causeway – the Melbourne Causeway. It seemed like an eternity until we reached the top.

Fortunately what goes up, must come down.

Not as much fun as the first bridge due to cramping legs.

ouchy!

And there went the 2:20 pacer.  Not that it mattered but there were no clocks on the course, only mile markers. (I never looked at my watch until after the race.)

Finally we headed toward the finish line and I dragged my cramping legs as across it as fast as I could.

I crossed at 2:20:XX. Injury-free and smiling!

Mission accomplished.

Post Race Activities

I was immediately handed the finisher medal. The food table had bananas, tangerines, donut holes.  I ate a banana which seemed to alleviate the cramps.  I ate a few donut holes, as well.

the obligatory medal photo

It was raining pretty hard now so I made a beeline for bag check to get my umbrella and change out of my wet shoes.

Frank Shorter was waiting to give out awards.  I scanned my bib and as expected, I did not win one so I walked to my car and headed back to the hotel.

5 out of 17

I felt pretty good after a hot shower.  I quickly dismissed any negative thoughts about the race and focused on the rest of my vacation,

On the way back to Boca Raton, I stopped off to visit an old friend who lived in Jensen Beach.  We had lunch together.

Afterward, I drove to my final destination, my college roommate’s home. She winters in Fla (and lives on LI the rest of the year.)  She kindly invited me to stay with her for two nights.

The rest of my race-cation included a trip to Miami to see South Beach, Immersive Monet exhibit, Wynwood Walls and Little Havana.

and finally a run with fellow blogger, Jenny.

Additional Race Reflections:

The Good:

  • Easy packet pick-up.
  • Small expo
  • Sufficient number of port-a-potties at start/finish and along the course
  • Real restrooms at the start/finish
  • Bag Check
  • Beautiful course. Water views throughout.
  • Water stops at every mile (with Gatorade, gels, tangerines, pickle juice)
  • Friendly staff, participants, volunteers, residents.
  • Pacers.
  • Walker friendly – 6 hour time limit for the half marathon.
  • Several distance options – full, half, 10k and 5k
  • Legendary Frank Shorter was there handing out awards (and he ran the 5k)
  • Big coconut themed medals (recycled metals)
  • Free Photos
  • Race Hats with the Coconut Themed Logo to all runners
  • Music played throughout the course
  • Brews courtesy of Florida Beer to runners

The Bad:

  • No shirts – purchased separately (maybe that’s a good?)
  • Bridge crossing at mile 12.5!
  • I had no friends running this with me.
  • My SIL no longer lived here (a long drive from where I was staying).
  • the RAIN (felt good but limited the entertainment and post race festivities)

Would I recommend this race?

Yes. Yes. Yes.

It was super well-organized.  The course was beautiful. And if the sun comes out, it will be even better.

Final Stats:

Splits:

I am so proud that my body can run even when the conditions are not optimal.

A far cry from my 2:06:52 PR in 2017 and my NYC qualifying time of 2:11:15 in 2019.

This old broad will just have to be content finishing upright from now on, I guess.  And three years after I ran this same course, I was only 26 seconds slower!!

Next Up:

Central Park Half Marathon (in NYC) – back to get redemption on those hills of Central Park.

Feb. 27, 2022

Happy Running! Have you ever been to Melbourne, FL? Ever run this race? Any in-person races planned for 2022? Please share.

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

Since today is Tuesday, I’m also linking up with these ladies and you should too.

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.

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Weekly Run Downs for 2.6.22-2.13.22 and 2.14.22 -2.20.22: Getting my Vitamin D

I fully recovered (?) from the hilly half marathon in NYC and then I headed off to warmer and sunnier Florida for a few days.

I had lots of ocean views, friend meet-ups and of course, I ran a half marathon.

I then returned to the frigid Northeast and continued training for another hilly NYC half marathon.

Two Weeks Ago:

  • Sunday – I recovered from my Saturday Long Run with a visit to the Ice Castles in Lake George.  They were amazing.

when I bought the tix, I forgot about the extra hour of daylight… next year, I want to go at night when they are lit up in different colors

  • Monday – #nevermissamonday.  No time other than to run in the freezing temps before work.  But that freed me up for walks after work.  One with friends outdoors and the other with my bff in the mall.

lots of ice ad snow in the roads but I remained upright… that’s Champ who was waiting for me when I finished.. he was cold too.

  • Tuesday  – Another busy work day but I ran after work in town followed by some errands to get ready for my vacay.

so nice not to have to rush to get my run done before dark

  • Wednesday – Last day home… I squeezed in a run during lunch in the neighborhood because I had a hair appt after work and I needed to PACK!!!

a gorgeous sunny day… but my driveway is still an icy mess

  • Thursday  – I took a 5:30 am flight to West Palm, Fla, rented a car and drove to my friend’s place in Delray Beach. After lunch and some relaxation at the pool, we did some bird watching at one of my favorite places.

followed by dinner with a view.

  • Friday -I got up early and had planned to drive to the beach to catch the sunrise but decided instead to stay in my friend’s community  for my last run before the race.

Afterward, we visited a turtle sanctuary, had lunch on the beach and soaked up some sun.  Then a quick dinner in town before attending an exhibition tennis tournament.

  • Saturday – Before leaving Delray, I met up with a friend for a bird-watching walk and brunch.

On the way to Palm Bay, I stopped to tour the McKee Gardens in Vero Beach (I had gotten tix ahead of time) followed by a stop at Abbott’s and then on to my hotel to check-in.

coincidently at the gardens, there was an dinosaur exhibit and European car show

Next I headed to Melbourne for race packet pick-up but had extra time after so I visited a nearby nature preserve.

Finally, back to the hotel, pizza for dinner and early to bed .

  • Sunday – The big day! I ran the Publix Florida Half Marathon. 13.1 miles of mostly ocean views that also included a bridge at mile 6.5 and another at 12.5. It was exhausting and fun at the same time.

the only rain of my trip was during the race…

After I checked out of my hotel, I drove back south. On the way, I stopped for lunch to visit with a friend who lives in Jensen Beach.

Last stop of the day was to my college roommate’s where I’d be staying for the next two nights.

she has a cute Yorkie

Last Week on the Blog – 

Last Week:

  • Monday – We got up early as we were driving down to Miami. Our first stop was the Art Deco District and lunch with a view of the ocean. And our last stop was Wynwood Walls and dinner in Little Havana.

The main reason for the trip, however, was to see the Beyond Monet Exhibit… and it was awesome.

  • Tuesday  – Last day in Florida. Sigh.  I was lucky enough to get to meet and run with fellow blogger Jenny.

she was super sweet and indulged me with a running route near the beach

I ended my vacay with a delicious brunch.

grits with chocolate banana French toast

Happy to report that there was no flight drama and I arrived home safe and sound.

  • Wednesday – A rude awakening… cold temps and WIND. Back on with the layers for a lunchtime run and then an after work walk with friends.

the ice may have melted on my driveway but not on the rail trail.. Boo

  • Thursday – A lot warmer today but still windy. I had hoped to run at lunch but it was raining.  Being a fair weather runner, I waited until after work and headed to UAlbany.

no layers or beanie or gloves but still this was torture…just feeling oh so sluggish

  • Friday – Rest Day (and still windy and colder than the day before… ugh!) but getting to catch up that evening with the mah jongg ladies
  • Saturday –  Long Run Saturday was back!  I guess you’d call it a recovery/taper – 10 miles because next weekend is another half marathon. So glad to have Stan and Sherry as my run companions.

so cold and windy with blowing snow… never could have gotten it done alone…

  • Sunday –  Rest Day… errands and some hiking.

It was a longish drive but definitely worth it.. the weather was perfect, the waterfalls breath-taking and I didn’t fall (thanks to nano spikes)

This Coming Week on the Run– 

  • Monday – DAY OFF- run
  • Tuesday –rest day, (working at the NYS Bar exam), walk
  • Wednesday – run
  • Thursday – run
  • Friday -rest day, (working at the NYS Bar exam), walk, mah jongg
  • Saturday – rest day, train to NY, Ice Sculptures on Governor’s Island
  • Sunday – Central Park Half Marathon, brunch with friends, train home

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Publix Florida Half Marathon Race Recap
  • Friday – Runfessions

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? Any in-person races planned?  How are you dealing with winter running so far? Any warm weather vacations planned? Please share.

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FFF: Things I’m Looking for in a Coach

maybe Judith pictured here…?

I have never had a coach nor am I sure that I will ever hire one.

But if I did, here’s what would be important for ME:

1. Experience

I know a certified coach has to start somewhere but I would prefer not to be her his/her first client.

They need to have coached before and maybe even have coached someone else with needs similar to mine or who was training for the same distance.

Also he/she needs to be experienced as a runner and one who is faster than I am (No offense…)

2.Cost

I’m not a professional nor do I have unlimited funds to spend on running. So the cost would have to reasonable and paid monthly.

3. Accessibility

In-person would be ideal but at least through email, text and social networking.  I would expect prompt and thoughtful responses to my questions.

4. Flexibility

I would want to be given a training plan but not one that I could not adapt to my changing needs or life schedule.

5. Presence at my goal race 

Obviously this may not be possible. But it would be incredibility supportive and helpful.

Patrick was my coach at past Freihofer & Turkey Trot Challenge groups. I saw him recently when I was volunteering as he was running in the marathoner that he coached

Remember that every runner is different.  My needs or preferences may not be the same as yours.

Many of you who are reading this post may be certified running coaches.  Many of the bloggers that I know are also certified coaches and based on what I have read, they would be great coaches… so maybe someday we will work together???

And if any of my readers are looking to hire a coach. here are some helpful links:

Happy Running! Do you have a coach or have you ever had one? What was important when choosing him/her? Please share.

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Welcome to Fit Friday Five! Please join the hosts Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida

and add your link below:

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

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TT: Winter Bucket List

Winter is in full swing. In fact, it started in December and ends in March.

I’m finally getting around to writing about my Winter Bucket List:

  • Scenic Hikes (especially ones with frozen waterfalls)

  • Cold Weather Races

  • Warm Weather Sunrise/Beach Run

  • A Half Marathon or Three

  • NYC Visit

I’m happy to say that I have made significant progress with the list above.  Let’s hope so because it’s almost time to plan the Spring Bucket list!!

Happy Running!! What’s on your Winter Bucket List?  Have you been successful so far?  Are you looking forward to Spring like I am? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m joining the link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner)

I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

 

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FFF: Drink Your Coffee!

This post is for all you coffee drinkers (or future coffee drinkers).

Here are 5 ways that coffee (that is with caffeine) can enhance your running performance:

  1. Moderate intake of coffee lowers perceived exertion. That means that your workouts may feel easier. So you may be able to maintain your desired running pace longer. 
  2. Coffee increases your blood levels of free fatty acids. That makes them available for fuel while preserving your glycogen stores. In other words, you may be able to run longer distances.
  3. Coffee can also help preserve glycogen stores when consumed after exertion. So you should try drinking some after a run, as well.
  4. Coffee stimulates the central nervous system, leading to increased alertness and lower perception of fatigue. A no-brainer on how this could help your running.
  5. Coffee stimulates peristalsis (or a bowel movement).  So definitely try drinking some coffee before a race. LOL

Yes, I have tried caffeinated teas and they just didn’t have the same effect for me.

Of course, every runner is different. You may not need caffeine at all. 

And my after race preference is actually chocolate milk not coffee.

Happy Running! Do you drink coffee?  Any other benefits of coffee that I have missed? Please share.

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Welcome to Fit Friday Five! Please join the hosts Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida

and add your link below:

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

https://fresh.inlinkz.com/js/widget/load.js?id=a8b40ada7693d64e5923

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TT: Six Favorites of 2021

6 number sesame street GIF - Find on GIFER

I picked SIX categories but I couldn’t limit myself to one answer for each. lol

1.Favorite Run:

Firecracker 4

I unexpectedly loved this July 4th run. It was the first time I had run this course and believe it not, it was my only PR of the year. And the popsicle at mile 4 was awesome.

Electric City 5 miler

A brand new race.  So I had no idea what the course would be like.  But you can’t beat running on a bike path along the river.  Definitely need to run this one again.

2. Favorite Race:

 Smuttynose Rockfest Half Marathon

Probably because I ran the race with my running friends, I enjoyed this race the most. It was my fastest half marathon of the year, as well. Who doesn’t love a race with ocean views?

Run for the Roses 5k

It was hilly so I may not have loved the course.  But I got to meet up with runners that I had not seen since we ran the 2014 Love Run in Philly together. We had a blast and the race wag was a library book and a rose.  I also won an age group award.

3. Favorite Hike:

 Plotterkill Falls

Most of my hikes, I did alone but this one I did with two friends. I love waterfalls. I think they are even prettier frozen but this hike was the most challenging I’ve even done. I still cringe when I think about the trail conditions that day.

Kaaterskill Falls

Another waterfall in warmer weather (if you look closely you can see some folk swimming under the falls). I also did this one with a friend which made it more fun.

4. Favorite Meal:

Post Race Hard Cider and Fries

This snack was after a half marathon. The hard cider was free and the fries were not but delicious.

Post Run French Toast Brunch

One of my favorite brunches when we run on the rail trail.  If I run at 10 miles, this strawberry-stuff item is my reward.

5.Favorite Event/Activity:

Lighthouse Boat Tour (near Fort Lauderdale, FL)

A spur of the moment decision the day before my half marathon. I was lucky to get a ticket for the last boat that day.

College Reunion at the Van Gogh Exhibit in NYC

Though I had seen this exhibit in Montreal (pre-pandemic), it was fun to do it again with friends (whom I had studied in France with).

6. Favorite Book:

The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek

Based on a true story and better than JoJo Moyles’ Giver of Stars IMO.

The Plot

A page-turner with a surprising twist at the end.

Happy Running! What are some of your favorites of 2021? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Since it’s Tuesday, I’m joining the link-up organized by Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner)

I’m also linking up here:

with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.

 

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Weekly Run Down for 1.30.22-2.6.22: Getting Ready for the Next One…

No rest for the weary.

One week until the big half marathon in Florida!!

That meant getting my runs done no matter what the weather is.

Last Week:

  • Sunday – In spite of the frigid weather and icy/snowy roads, I managed to get my long run done.

sunshine always helps with negative wind chill temps

  • Monday – #mevermissamonday. No time to get it done until after work.  Besides I woke up to another sub-zero temps day. Grateful that it now stays light until 5 pm.

this was an interesting new neighborhood.

And January is now over – 96 miles and I completed the Ragnar Challenge (31 days of logging activities with my blogger friends).

  • Tuesday – Today I was able to squeeze my run in during lunch. Again I was in the office for a bit so I stopped off at UAlbany. 30 degrees and sunshine were heavenly.

if you look on the bottom left, you can see the machine that clears and salts the paths

Then I could go for an outdoor walk with friends right after work.

Today also started a one month challenge sponsored by our Fleet Feet store – My goal is 15 miles/week. At the end of the month, if I reach 60 miles, I’ll get a $15 gift card. Win. Win,

  • Wednesday – I thought about a rest day after 3 days in a row of running. But the forecast was for rain on Thursday and snow on Friday.  So I took my running shoes to the roads once again. The sun has left us and added some wind but the temps were in the 40s. No complaints here.

only had time to run in the neighborhood…that was an election sign but her name spoke to me. lol

Lunch runs enable me to walk after work with friends.  (Eventually this will end when I go back to the office. Sigh.)

  • Thursday – A busy work day and a rainy/snowy one. I was right to have run the day before.

I couldn’t get out of work early enough to join my friends on their Ice Castles visit (I got tix instead for Sunday) but planned make the long drive to have dinner with them. Due to the inclement weather, the ice castles got cancelled.  Instead I decided to join my hubby and his friend for dinner. Much to my surprise, we picked a restaurant where some of my friends were having a birthday dinner.  Sorry hubby, “I see you everyday.”

  • Friday – Rest day because of the miserable weather – rain, snow, sleet, freezing rain….even mah jongg was cancelled.. And because of a possible long run the next day.
  • Saturday – Finally the weather allowed us to run on a Saturday!! It was very cold and windy but sunny. IOW, it could have and has been worse. Another 8 miles this weekend and so happy to do it with a friend. The hay is in the barn as they say.

We had planned on 10 but it seemed to get colder and windier so we quit… (still below zero with the wind chill)

Then I did quite a few errands to get ready to go on vacation next week, including getting my nails done.

  • Sunday –  Rest day but a lot of walking around in Lake George at the Ice Castles.  So fun. Glad they built them (for the first time) here.

I wish we could have stayed until it got dark… they are lit up in different colors

This Coming Week on the Run– 

  • Monday – run  before work. walk with BFF
  • Tuesday – run after work, walk with friends
  • Wednesday – run at lunch, hair appt after work, PACK!
  • Thursday – rest day, 5:30 am flight to West Palm, pick up rental car, friend meet-up in Delray
  • Friday -sunrise run, various activities with friends
  • Saturday – rest day, another friend meet-up in Delray, garden visit in Vero Beach on the way to Palm Bay hotel, packet pick-up in Melbourne
  • Sunday – PUBLIX FLORIDA HALF MARATHON, friend meet-up in Jensen Beach after, then drive to former roomie’s place in Boca Raton.

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Six Favorites from 2021
  • Friday – Benefits of Coffee

Next Week on the Run– 

  • Monday – drive to Miami to see Monet exhibit among other things
  • Tuesday – sunrise run with fellow blogger in Boca, return car, flight home
  • Wednesday – run at lunch
  • Thursday – run after work. walk with friends
  • Friday -rest day, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Long Run (8 mi. taper)
  • Sunday – rest day

Next Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Winter Bucket List
  • Friday – What I’m Looking for in a Coach

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? Did run a lot of miles in January? Any in-person races planned?  How are you dealing with winter running so far? Have you ever visited ice Castles?  Any warm weather destination vacations planned? Please share.

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FFF: Ultimate Coffee Date for Feb. ’22

It’s that time of the month…

Gift For Running Women and Runner Girls - 13.1 Half Marathon Run Word Cloud Typography - 11oz Ceramic Unique Coffee Mug Tea Cup, Black - Inspirational and Motivational Present

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

1. Over coffee… 

I’d tell you that I just ran a half marathon but crazy me signed up for two more this month!

Publix Florida Marathon & 1/2 Marathon - Melbourne, Florida - 2/13/2022 - My BEST Runs - Worlds Best Road Races

Feb. 27, 2022

2.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that you can never have too many pairs of running shoes especially if someone sells them cheaply. (I do add my own insoles!!)

Topos for $49 (new=$130) and they’re purple!

$40… had to buy them

3.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that my running group has been shrinking.  Between those who winter in Florida, those who are sick and those who are injured, I have struggled to find company to do my long runs on the weekends.  But fortunately I have only had to run ONE long run solo (due to 2 last minute cancellations).

I miss my tribe!

4.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that I giddy about leaving this cold weather and heading to Florida in less than a week. I know it may not be very warm but it won’t be icy and the temps should be above freezing.

beach time?

5.Over coffee…

I’d tell you that related the above vacation, I have quite a few friends to visit and activities with them, believe it or not, will NOT involve running.

with a tennis friend, college roommate and former co-worker

Don’t worry, there will be:

    • a sunrise run or two
    • a half marathon
    • a meet-up with a running blogger (guess who?)

Happy Running! What’s new with you?  Have you signed up for any winter long races? Do you ever buy used clothing/shoes? Any trips planned to escape the cold?  Do you always try to get in your running when you visit friends? Have you met other bloggers in person? Please share.


 

 

 

 

 

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

So Join in!

And don’t forget to link back to your hostesses and visit some other bloggers.

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

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Fred LeBow Half Marathon Race Recap

Fred Lebow Half Marathon - Central Park, NY - 1/23/2022 - My BEST Runs - Worlds Best Road Races

I signed up for the Fred LeBow Half Marathon as my 54th Half Marathon (and first of 2022) for several reasons:

  • I love NYC.
  • I love running in Central Park.
  • I hadn’t run a race there since January 2020.
  • I had enough pts for a free hotel room and free train to NYC.
  • I had thought my NYC BRFs Cari and Elizabeth may be running it too or at least we could meet up during the weekend.
  • It kept me doing weekend long runs during the cold temps of upstate NY.
  • I would be running another half marathon in 3 weeks (so could consider this as a training run.)
  • I had hoped to run the Frozen Penguin Half Marathon a few weeks earlier but it was cancelled.
  • I ran this half marathon in 2020 with a sore foot so this would be a do-over.
  • As a NYRR half marathon, if I do finish under 2:27, it would be easier to time qualify for 2023 NYC half & full marathons.

Half Marathon Training:

As I mentioned above, I had hoped to run a half marathon in Central Park two weeks earlier. I love to sign up for winter halfs because it motivates me to keep doing those long runs in the cold weather. (And this year, the temps were COLD!!)

If you follow my posts, you also know that I am not strict about following a training plan. But I do try to do those weekday short runs

and get in those double digit runs on the weekend..

I knew about the HILLS that would taunt me during the race. 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

I also ran this same race in 2020. That time, due to construction, they added an extra hill and I was suffering big time from foot pain (so I had missed many weeks of training.)

smiling cuz it was over

In case you have never heard of Fred LeBow, he died of cancer in 1994 at age 62, but before his illness, he left an unforgettable mark on running in New York and the world as a runner, race director and founder of the New York City Marathon. There’s a statue in his honor in Central Park.

Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:

I took the train to NYC on Saturday morning. It was -6 degrees when I left (but the temps were a lot warmer in NYC – balmy 20s). I arrived at 11am and my hotel check-in time was 3 pm.  Due to COVID, there’s no hotel bag check but luckily my room was ready.  So I checked into my hotel on 39th St. and grabbed some lunch.

when in NYC… bagel and lox!

Months ago, I had bought some cheap tickets to a Broadway show in order to have something to do besides walking my feet off the day before a half marathon.  The show that I wanted to see was To Kill a Mockingbird but it closed so I wound up changing my tix for a different show.

The story in this show was told to songs by Bob Dylan

.Afterward, I grabbed some pizza for dinner

and walked around the area (Hudson Yards and Manhattan West) …

and eventually headed back to my hotel in order to plan my race day.

heat wave, right?

I have not run many winter half marathons so it was a challenge to decide on what to wear to keep warm but not too warm for 13.1 miles.

hidden is a skirt with tights attached

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 shirt and jacket, DIY arm sleeves, grabbed a foil blanket and called an Uber. (My hotel was on West 39th and the start was near E. 102nd. I could have taken the subway but obviously way too far to walk.

As I did in 2020, I got there too early and FROZE!!!

I had to pick up my bib and check my bag… everything was so well-organized even with ID and vaccination checks that it only took minutes.

decided to wear 2020 beanie and save this one for after the race

It seemed like most racers were there as well (the race sold out at 5,000) and we lamented about the cold but we knew that it was warmer than recent days.

As I was walking around trying to stay warm, I passed a heated tent with chairs. The runners in it invited me in.  It was awesome. Unfortunately eventually we got kicked out since it was for staff only. So we huddled near it sucking up any warm air that we could.  Of course, they soon shooed us away too.

happy to thaw out here

Soon it was time anyway to head to the corrals and I was assigned (as always) to corral I (based on a fast 10k race).  I debated what to throw away and decided on just the jacket and foil.  I kept on the extra shirt…. I was freezing!

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

The Race Plan: Do not get injured!! (You need to be healthy for the Florida half in 3 weeks!) And have fun!!

I would most likely do a lot of walking… because there would be umpteen hills!! (3 Harlems, several Cats and many other annoying smaller ones.)

I planned to 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:

2022 Course Map:

2 1/2 loops of the park – 3 Harlem Hills and 2 Cat Hills 

Check out this elevation:

Miles 1-5:

It took a LONG almost 7 minutes to get to the start line. Even though I had on 2 pairs of gloves, my hands were numb as were my feet. I was glad to wear my buff since it kept my face warm.

It was slow going at first due to the crowd but soon we heading for a downhill stretch. Of course, I tried to stay slow and it felt slow but when you look at my stats you’ll see that familiar pattern – slow… slow… slower.

My corral had a 2:10 pacer whom I lost immediately. I never did see a 2:20 one if there was one.  I was happy to never see a 2:30 one.

courtesy of nyrr

The first hill was Harlem and it was the steepest.  I ran up most of it thinking that it wasn’t so bad (my opinion changed by the third time)

Once I started running, I realized that I was indeed perfectly dressed. In fact during the 2nd mile, I decided to take off my throw-away shirt.  Not easy. It got tangled in my two other shirts and I forgot about my watch. To make along story short, I had to take off my watch and two shirts and re-dress.

The best news was that my FOOT never HURT.  (Much different than the last time I ran this race two years ago when I could barely walk on it.)

I always tried to pick up speed on the downhills but they were short-lived as there were always smaller hills – the Sisters, etc.  According to Strava, each hill has a name.

There was a water stop early, I think I skipped it as well as the last one.  Many offered Honey Stinger Gels which I did grab (free is free lol).

I knew that Cari and maybe Elizabeth would be be cheering for me on the west side at 79th St. Of course, I really couldn’t figure out most of time where I was in the park… it seemed to be hill, recover, hill, recover hill. lol. I never saw Cari on the first loop but it turned out that she arrived just as I was going by.

I had eaten breakfast at 5:30 am so I was very hungry, I think I stopped at the next water stop around mile 4 to eat a GU.

not sure what I was doing (I’m on the left)

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 then walked. Cat wasn’t as steep but seemed a lot longer.

(In case you’ve never run in Central Park, it’s called Cat Hill because there is a statue of a cat staring down at you.)

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

Miles 6-10:

We passed the start again and that meant we were heading for round 2 of Harlem Hill.  Of course, it got harder to run up it each time. I did my best but never was able to run the whole thing.

I grabbed a Honey Stinger gel at one of the water stops. I ate it around mile 7 1/2. (It was a first time for Honey… a little too sweet but no bad after effects)

As we headed for the west side again, I was looking forward to seeing my friends Cari and Elizabeth. Around mile 8, I spotted Cari who snapped a pic and shouted “See you at the finish!” I so appreciated her being there to cheer me on especially since it was a cold day.

Thanks Cari for the action pic!!

That gave me some short-lived energy but 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.

Miles 11-13.4:

We passed the start for the last time (Thank God!).  Always cruel when that happens to a slower runner. So many runners were walking by with their medals on already.

It was almost over but it wasn’t.  Some downhill as before but leading up for the last time to Harlem Hill. I occasionally looked at my watch and saw that each mile was slower than the next.  I was ok with it (this was not planned as a PR or anything even close) and so I decided to just do what I had to do to finish.  That meant walking a lot in that last mile… Harlem Hill during mile 13… Sigh.

But I finally turned toward the finish line and then turned again.

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

I saw Cari and Elizabeth cheering me on.

Post Race Activities:

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

I grabbed a bagel and headed to bag check to get some warm clothes and meet Cari and Elizabeth.

my awesome race supporters

I was cold now… I was glad to have packed a down jacket, vest and gloves.

We walked out of the park (from E102nd to W72nd).

the obligatory Imagine pic

stopping along the way for more pics

now I can wear the race beanie

so we could have brunch together.

photo credit = Cari. We were outside but there was a heater above us… I look cold

yes it was as good as it looks.

After brunch, we went our separate ways.  We would see each other in five weeks for another Central Park half marathon. Stay tuned…

Rather than taking the subway, I decided to walk back to my hotel (on 39th St.)

40,000 steps for the day!! OY!

Hotel check out is normally noon but I reserved a late check-out for 2 pm.  It was now 1:45. Yikes.  Originally I had a train ticket for 7:15 pm, but wisely changed it to 5:15 pm.  As I mentioned earlier, there were no bag check options (due to COVID).  I was not planning on dragging my luggage around the city so I changed my train ticket again and left at 3:40 pm.

I don’t recommend sitting for hours on a train or plane after running a half marathon.  I was quite stiff that night. (The good news is that I felt fine the next day.)

Additional Race Reflections:

As you can see from the stats below, my splits were slower the second half the race.

I was surprised and thrilled that I finished under 2:27!! (one of my 2022 goals). But a little disappointed that I only finished about 30 seconds faster than 2020 when I ran this race untrained and hurting.

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 legs/feet felt fine.. no pain anywhere (always a good thing at my age.)

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

The Good:

  • Easy packet pick-up (M-F at Run Center and also race morning near the start).
  • Vaccination required for ALL participants.
  • 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 (7 at least)
  • Gels available at several water stops
  • Many porta-potties along the course in addition to real CP bathrooms
  • Roads were dry.
  • Friends cheering for support.
  • Well marked course.
  • Timing Clock at every mile.
  • Great crowd support at the big hills!
  • Los of volunteers as course marshals and at water stops (and it was cold out!!)
  • Pacers (useful if you started in the correct corral).
  • Very cool medal.
  • Great winter beanie.
  • Foil blankets put on and taped close for each runner.
  • Blogger meet-up with Cari and another friend to share the race experience after.
  • NO foot pain. No Blisters.

The Bad:

  • No packet pick-up on Saturday (day before the race) so those who do not live in NYC had to do day of race pick-up
  • Loops!!!  2 1/2.
  • Hills in Central Park. 3 Harlems, 2 Cats (and they are long and steep) among other smaller hills
  • I did not do any training on hills (my bad)
  • So cold waiting before the race (but it could have been worse).
  • Post-race food – just bagel and apple (COVID?)
  • No photos

Would I recommend this race?

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 a small race by NYC standards. And not an expensive one.

Final Stats:

Splits:

my Garmin time is off… may have had auto-pause on?? or started it late?

yeah there was lots of walking..

Next Up:

This one should have warmer weather but you never know with Florida.  I ran this one three years ago in the pouring rain.  No hills just TWO big bridges.

Publix Florida Marathon & 1/2 Marathon - Melbourne, Florida - 2/13/2022 - My BEST Runs - Worlds Best Road Races

Happy Running! Ever run this race? Have you raced in NYC? Ever run a cold weather half marathon? Please share.

runner-sig

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

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Weekly Run Down for 1.23.22-1.30.21: Recovery Week

Recovering from my recent HILLY half marathon.

But not too much recovery since I have another one in two weeks.

Last Week:

  • Sunday – An exhausting but fun day in NYC.  I ran the Fred Lebow Half Marathon In Central Park.

It was harder than expected so didn’t do as well as hoped. Still I met my goal.

After the race, I walked with my friends (who came to the race) through the park and to brunch.

Then I walked back to my hotel. (The race ended on E102nd… my hotel was on W 39th.)  40,000 steps for the day.

  • Monday – Though I was quite stiff the night before, I felt good today. I was even tempted to do a recovery run but decided that I should just go for a walk.
  • Tuesday  – Anxious to get back out running especially before the temps dropped. I had to go to the office for a little while so I decided to run at nearby UAlbany.

I usually run here at night so I varied my route since it was daylight… took it slow but the legs felt great.

After work, it was warm enough for an outdoor walk with friends.

  • Wednesday – Frigid but at least sunny. So I snuck out before work and as usual, it was such a nice way to start the day.

10 degrees, feels like 0 didn’t even feel bad since it hadn’t started to get windy yet.

  • Thursday – Another cold day. Even colder in the morning than the day before (-6). I decided to wait until after work to run. I dropped off a book at the library and ran in those neighborhoods for a change.

the wind made this one feel colder than I’d hoped but it was nice to have daylight until 5 pm.

Then I met my BFF to walk around the mall.

  • Friday – After running three days in a row, I decided that I should take a rest day. Just didn’t feel like layering up after work.  So off to mah jongg I went. (Brain workout).
  • Saturday – Today was my normal LONG RUN day but due to possible snow, low temps and the wind gusts, we decided to wait until Sunday. Another rest day instead.  

We made the right decision… woke up to -11 wind chill and snow falling and blowing!!

And when you work all week, there’s lots of chores to do around the house anyway. Sigh.

I did get out later in the afternoon for a walk. Brr.

  • Sunday –  One of our running friends was running a half marathon in Fla so we planned to run with her virtually. Our routes for long runs are limited due to snow/ice so it would be the neighborhoods around The Crossings (again). I woke up to -7 wind chill so we’re waiting before we head out.  My plan is 12 miles but I’ll see how many I get in (before hypothermia sets it lol).

Update, I waited awhile and the sun helped get me through the miles.  But without any company other than my podcasts (due cold temps & injuries), I only ran 10 miles.

This Coming Week on the Run– 

  • Monday – run after work
  • Tuesday – run at lunch. walk after work with friends
  • Wednesday – rest day, walk, dinner w/tennis friends
  • Thursday – run after work
  • Friday -rest day, walk, mah jongg
  • Saturday – Long Run (taper)
  • Sunday – rest day, visit the Ice Castles in Lake George, dinner out

This Coming Week on the Blog – 

  • Tuesday – Fred LeBow Half Marathon Race Recap
  • Friday – Ultimate Coffee Date

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? Any in-person races planned?  How are you dealing with winter running so far? Please share.